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Eggsibition to open in Steubenville

It’s time to celebrate spring by attending the annual Steubenville Eggsibition & Storywalk from March 18 to May 14 which features over 30 18” to 36” uniquely designed Easter Eggs strategically situated in storefronts in the downtown area.

The Art Eggs – another creation of the Steubenville Cultural Trust who developed the Nutcracker Village – are also visible from outside for folks who just want to window shop. Maps for the egg hunt will be available at Leonardo’s Coffeehouse, participating businesses, and the Steubenville Visitor Center. After finding and viewing all the Art Eggs, “egg-hunters” will be able to stop in at the Steubenville Popcorn Company and choose a prize mini-egg and vote on their favorite. All the Art Eggs were painted by local artists and range from traditional Pysanky to depictions of scenes, personalities, or literary images.

As an added attraction, the Public Library of Steubenville & Jefferson County has created an Easter Egg StoryWalk to coincide with the Eggsibition. Pages of a story will be placed around town near each of the “hidden” eggs. Participants can collect a map from the Library or Leonardo’s and claim a prize at the downtown library when they have completed the Storywalk.

“It’s a great way to bring families downtown to celebrate the Easter season, to visit the local shops, to take ‘selfies’, and make memories,” noted Judy Bratten of the Steubenville Visitor Center. “The StoryWalk is part of the library’s efforts to increase literacy and encourage community involvement.”

“Egg decorating has been around for so long that historians aren’t even certain when the practice first began,” Bratten added. “I’ve read that engraved ostrich eggs have been found in Africa that date back 60,000 years. But decorating for spring and especially for the Easter season is an established practice now. Christians adopted the practice of egg decoration early on as they stained eggs red in memory of the blood of Christ. Each culture has developed its own particular style of decorating.”

Lead designer and creator of the Eggsibition and the Nutcracker Village, Therese Fedoryka, was inspired by the Easter tradition in the Ukraine, Poland and Austria, where giant decorated eggs are displayed in town squares and public places. She sees these events as part of a larger revitalization effort that brings businesses and the arts together.

“We started doing the eggs in 2017,” she said. “The nutcrackers had been very successful two years in a row — the eggs had actually been a plan since before Nutcracker Village was born. The idea was to hide the eggs so visitors would be required to go around town and find the stores, maybe find businesses they didn’t know existed. The idea was to encourage revitalization in spring as well as winter.”

The eggs are displayed 24/7 but visitors are encouraged to check store hours if they want to patronize the business as well. The Steubenville Popcorn Company and Leonardo’s Coffeehouse are located at 159 N. 4th Street and the Steubenville Visitor Center is at 120 S. 3rd Street. Selfies can be shared on Facebook #SteubieArtEggs.

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2024 SAA Art Show

This month, the Fort Steuben Visitor Center will host a show by the Steubenville Art Association called “Show Us Your Stuff.”

“This art show is different in many ways from any art show we have ever had,” explained SAA president Judy Schmidt. “First of all, it is a brag show.  We are asking everyone who has done an art piece or two that they are proud of to bring it here and enter it in this most braggadocious show ever seen.”

The invitation is open to not only local artists but to anyone who makes art in the privacy of their homes. 

“From toddler to Grandmas, you are invited to show your art in a show with the artists of the SAA.  All we ask in return is some proud Yep, I did that! Smiles,” Schmidt added.

Schmidt noted that this art show is different because it was planned and is managed by student managers and will be judged by student judges.  These are members of the SAA who have never managed or judged an art show before.  This is an opportunity for them to learn something new as they make their way through the art world.  

“Our student managers are so enthusiastic about this show that they have gone overboard.  They have planned for awards for children and awards for adults.  So, parents and teachers, if you have little ones that like to do art, frame that painting or that drawing and bring it to be hung in the children’s section of our art show. It will be such a positive experience for the child and the parent or grandparent alike,” she said.

The Steubenville Art Association is asking the public to bring their art work for the show to the Visitor Center on Thursday, March 7 from 11AM until 3PM. The members of the SAA will hang the art so that the student judges can come view it the next day and decide what art pieces will be awarded.  There will be a Best of Show Award, Most Original Award, and also the Mayor’s Choice award.  There will also be “Awesome” ribbons for outstanding artwork.  Winners will be announced at the Grand Opening.

Schmidt said that every single child who enters will get some recognition, “Because we of the SAA just love the work of young artists.”

Also at the ceremony, the SAA will unveil their new logo.  Although the SAA has been a part of our community for over 77 years, they just recently had a contest and adopted their first official logo.

All the public is invited to come out to the Grand Opening ceremony and meet the artists of the SAA. For anyone who has thought about doing more art or getting involved with the SAA, this is a chance to talk with their members.  

Anyone who has questions can email judyschmidt50@hotmail.com or call at 740-424-3835.  Also, please check out.  You’ll find further information about this art show on the SAA Facebook page and website.

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HOME SHOW RETURNS

The cold winds may be blowing but spring is just around the corner bringing programs and events to look forward to.

  We are especially excited for the return of the Jefferson County Chamber Spring Home Show, on March 2-3. It has been a few years since the area has seen such events.

Chamber of Commerce President Kate Sedgmer explained that this free event will appeal to new and seasoned homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone looking for home improvement ideas.

  “There are similar shows in neighboring areas, but the closest shows to us are Pittsburgh and Wheeling! We are fortunate to have attracted many of the ‘large’ vendors that typically frequent these shows,” she noted.

  They are anticipating about 60 vendors and displays from local and regional businesses and nonprofits as well as several pop-up displays. New this year is a Kids Korner to entertain the youngsters while their parents browse the exhibits.

  “The Show takes lots of planning, coordination with vendors, community, and volunteer support. We are excited to partner with the Public Libraries of Steubenville and Jefferson County to offer crafts and activities to children. We also hope to have an appraiser on hand so attendees can bring their vintage/antiques to be checked out,” she added.

  The 2024 Spring Home Show offering information on home renovation, landscaping, interior design, and home technology will be held at St. Florian Hall, 286 Luray Drive, Wintersville and run from 11am to 6pm on Saturday and again from 11am to 3pm on Sunday. For more information, call the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce at 740.282.6226.

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A Wintry Visit to Steubenville

It’s easy to get the January blahs when the grey skies and cold, damp weather dominates. But a short drive to Steubenville may help break the gloomy spell. Situated in the Ohio River Valley, Steubenville has remnants of its industrial past, the natural beauty of the Appalachian hills, and a historic downtown with quirky shops, stunning churches, and a reconstructed 18th century frontier fort right in the downtown. Start at the Steubenville Visitor Center where you can obtain maps, dining/lodging recommendations, and a list of the many events and festivals through the year.

  1. City of Murals: Twenty-three larger than life works of art adorn many buildings in the city, depicting moments of local and national history including the first professional African American baseball player, Abraham Lincoln in the Civil War telegraph office, the main character of Ohio’s rock song (“Hold on Sloopy”), city native and crooner Dean Martin, and scenes of old Steubenville. Pick up a map and scavenger hunt at the Visitor Center to make it a fun experience for the whole family.
  2. Beatty Park: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this nature preserve abounds with 19th century stonework, walking and hiking trails, creeks, wildflowers, and towering trees. Put February 25th on your calendar for the Leap Year Winter Hike! This guided walk will loop up to the cemetery and back to the old stone lodge where there will be a fire and snacks.
  3. Downtown Fourth Street: With many of its buildings and shops currently undergoing revitalization, this block is filled with unique businesses that encourage browsing and shopping. Stock up on holiday décor and gifts in Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker Shoppe; browse the art and books in BookMarx Bookstore; sip a latte in the DaVinci themed atmosphere of Leonardo’s Coffeehouse; choose one of many flavors at the Steubenville Popcorn Company; enjoy a taste of Greece in Yorgo’s or fire-baked pizza at Martoni’s – each locally owned and operated.
  4. Antique Warehouse: Get out of the cold and wander through three floors of antiques, memorabilia, bargains, and mementoes of yesteryear. It’s easy to spend an hour or two admiring beautiful crystal and well-crafted furniture, remembering old toys, and discovering records or books, easily accessible with an elevator for those who aren’t able to navigate the grand staircase.
  5. Historic Fort Steuben: Billed as the Gateway to the West, this reconstructed military fort depicts life on the Ohio frontier in 1786-87. Although the Fort is closed until late April, the Exhibit Hall in the Visitor Center offers historic displays, including a huge collection of Native American spear heads and artifacts – some thousands of years old. Both adults and children can appreciate an exhibit on the Lewis & Clark expedition and an affiliated Junior Ranger Program. Bring your NPS Passport book to get stamped! Include the Museum Shop to pick up some postcards, old fashioned toys, history books, and souvenirs.

Many lodging options are available, but for a family or small group experience the Bayberry House Bed & Breakfasts offer an elegant and private retreat with modern conveniences right in the downtown.

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STEUBENVILLE ‘SIGHTS & SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS’ PARADE – DECEMBER 2 @ NOON

Tomorrow is the big day!   77 Units – Bands, Dance Groups , Martial Arts, Floats, Vehicles and more-

DECEMBER 2 – FOURTH STREET AT NOON.

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Steubenville Art Association Artist Marilyn McCain artwork at Fort Steuben Visitor Center

The artwork of Marilyn McCain,  featured artist from The Steubenville Art Association for the month of October, is now on display at the Steubenville/Fort Steuben Visitor Center.

Marilyn started drawing when she was 3 years old and has never stopped.

With 70 years of experience making art work, she spent nearly three decades in the public school system at the elementary level teaching children art.  She still does mixed media artwork daily – primarily drawing and sculptures.  

Marilyn is a lifelong horse lover, and has many pieces depicting this subject.  She has studied equine form and personality for many years, making it a specialty.  She says she will always cherish the memory of her big Palomino who she trained and who carried her faithfully for twenty years.

Her artwork is lovely.  The display is open the same hours as the Visitor Center, Monday through Saturday, 10am to 4pm, and Sundays 11am to 4pm.  Be sure to stop by and view this display, you will not regret it!

Below are two of Marilyn’s works: “Horse Heaven” an 18×24 pen and colored pencil drawing of two black Friesian Stallions. And, “A Drinker of the Wind and his Master”, a 16×20 drawing done in a dot-by-dot style in pen, overlaid with a variety of colored pencil tones.

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TRICK OR TREAT FUN EVENTS

Here are some fun Halloween Events:

Special Connections presents: Trunk or Treat and Fall Bash – Activities and food – JEFFCO Building, 256 John Scott Hwy, Steubenville. October 21st from 1:00-3:00pm.

Trunk or Treat – Food, Music, Games, Fun – First United Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 654 McLister Ave., Mingo Junction. October 22nd from 4:00-6:00pm.

Beyond Kids LLC presents: Halloween Bash – Bounce House, Dancing, Candy Stations, Face Painting, Pizza, Costume Contest, Vendors –JEFFCO 250 John Scott Hwy, Steubenville.   October 28th at 5:00pm.

Howl-o-Ween Thrill of the Hunt – Team Scavenger Hunt & Dance Party – Cash Prize – Jefferson County Humane Society, Wintersville.  October 28th.   Shelter: 740-314-5583; Clinic: 740-792-4350.     

2nd Annual Trunk or Treat presented by CK Auto Salvage, CK Towing and Recovery & Mayor Mike Petrella – 766 Canton Road, Wintersville.  October 28th from 1:00-4:00pm.

Steubenville Trick or Treat, October 28th from 5:00-7:00pm.

Wintersville Trick or Treat, October 28th from 5:00-7:00pm.

Second Baptist Church presents: Trunk or Treat – Apple Cider, Food Music, Fun – 717 Adams St.,  Steubenville – October 31st from 5:00-8:00pm.

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Upper Ohio Valley Camera Club Annual Photography Exhibit

The Upper Ohio Valley Camera Club will be having its Annual Photography Exhibit beginning on October 7 and continuing throughout the month. It will be held at the Millsop Community Center, 3420 Main Street, Weirton in the Lobby during regular business hours.

The Exhibit will open with “Meet the Photographers” from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 7. Winning photographs from the September Annual Photography Competition with 16 different topics will be on display as well as many other pictures.

The public is invited to attend and view the many interesting, captivating and unique pictures which were taken with digital and film cameras as well as with cell phones.

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