By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on WV’s First HBCU
West Virginia State University is located right outside Charleston city limits. This staple to the community was founded in 1890 as the West Virginia Colored Institute to provide education of black citizens in agriculture and mechanical arts. In 1927, the Institution was accredited by the North Central Associations and soon became West Virginia State College. Over the next decades, WVSC became one of the leading public institutions of higher education for African Americans. Finally, in 2004, the WV Legislature approved WVSC’s transition to University status.
In addition to being West Virginia’s first HBCU, WVSU has several prominent graduates. One of the most recognizable names is Earl Lloyd.
If you haven’t heard of Earl Lloyd, you are not a basketball fan. Mr. Lloyd was a trailblazer in basketball. During his career at WVSU, 1947 -1950, he led the Yellow Jackets to two conference and tournament championships. Earl was named All-Conference for three years and named a two time All-American by the Pittsburgh Courier.
He was the first African American to play in the NBA in 1950 while playing for the Washington Capitols. Later in his career, Lloyd played for the Syracuse Nationals and became the first African American to win an NBA Championship. After he retired, Lloyd went on the become the first African American assistant coach in the NBA while coaching the Detroit Pistons.
Mr. Lloyd continued to break color barriers upon leaving the NBA. Lloyd was hired by Chrysler as the first African American executive of the Dodge division.
Earl’s life is celebrated in a documentary film, “The First To Do It.” You can find out more about his life by visiting the WVSU website.
Be sure to stop by campus and explore the history of the university. You will find beautiful architecture, statues, and green spaces. Enjoy a Yellow Jackets game. Visit the university bookstore. If you are lucky, you may have the opportunity to run into WVSU first female president, Dr. Nicole Pride. Go State!
Photos and video courtesy of West Virginia State University.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Charleston Needs: Shop 218
Adding to the charm of Charleston’s West Side, Shop 218 opened in 2019. This chic boutique features specially curated items by owner April Showen, who believes that everyone should be able to have accessible, high-quality, and affordable style. “Everything is hand-selected in the shop to flatter every figure,” says April. “We love good classic style with additions for on-trend looks.” A multi-brand boutique, 218 continually refreshes the selections to keep it fresh for their frequent shoppers.
Along with checking out the fun fashion, you should pop into the shop just to bask in the luxurious atmosphere. It’s immediately apparent that the person who chose the décor has great taste: “My degree is actually graphic design, but it was heavily art-focused. I have always had a passion to create beautiful spaces.” April has been able to marry her keen eye for good style to interior design, fashion, and art.
218 provides every client with a customized personal shopping (or style) experience. April’s style experts will help you choose the perfect pieces for any occasion and give great tips on further styling each piece for multiple looks–giving you true wardrobe longevity. A much-appreciated addition has been the range of inclusive sizing that 218 carries. “The section of the shop is called Volume, because it’s for us ladies that have a little more volume to us.”
218 is open Monday through Saturday from 11am-7pm throughout the holiday season. You can shop in-person, get curbside pick-up or local delivery, or shop online for regular shipping. With the range of clothing, personal care, home fragrance, and jewelry, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for whoever is on your list!
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Charleston Needs: Elk City Records
Have a passion for vinyl? Phil Melick does, and that is why in 2017 he opened Elk City Records. The store is nestled into the city’s revitalized Elk City neighborhood at 311 Washington Street, West and features thousands of albums, all carefully cultivated by Shopkeeper Phil himself.
Browse a dazzling array of jazz, classical, folk, blues, show, and gospel recordings. Once you find something you like, the shop offers a vintage amplifier and turntables so you can listen to your soon-to-be purchase.
Stocking stuffers and gift cards available! Check social media or website for hours.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Charleston Needs: The Purple Moon
The Purple Moon began on a dining room table in the East End of Charleston nearly 20 years ago and has grown to be a nationally recognized seller of vintage, mid-century modern furnishings, accessories and art.
Founded in 2001, The Purple Moon began as online sellers of vintage items and opened a storefront design gallery in Downtown Charleston, WV, in 2005.
The Purple Moon has built a strong reputation for quality and top-rate design. They have been contributing writers to The Charleston Gazette’s West Virginia Design Team and, in addition to decorating some of the finest homes in the region, work with clients and designers throughout the country.
The Purple Moon has also become one of the region’s top estate liquidation consultants and conduct estate sales for families through PM Estate Sales.
With Covid19 The Purple Moon has worked to serve their customers in a safe and secure manner. They have expanded their online presence offering safe ways to acquire vintage items, art and even entire estates through http://thepurplemoon.com.
Always quick to say that “Great things are happening in Charleston,” owners Chuck and Connie Hamsher are passionate about our city and its people.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Charleston Needs: Orangetheory
Orangetheory Fitness Charleston opened in December, 2018 bringing a technology advanced, life-changing one-hour workout experience designed to provide you More Energy, More Strength. More Life.
Orangetheory Fitness is a heart rate based group interval training facility that is dynamic and personalized for the individual. All shapes, sizes and situations.
They are a Science Backed, Technology Tracked, Coach Inspired workout designed to produce results from the inside out.
As everyone knows, the need is great and the reasons are important for all of us to be proactive in building and preserving good health.
Their mission is to give the people of Charleston and the surrounding area a longer, more vibrant and fulfilling life. That’s what #MoreLife and Orangetheory is all about.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Charleston Needs: Eggplant
Eggplant is an exclusive gift boutique located in South Hills and has been open for over 25 years! Customers love discovering items for gift-giving, personal use, and home décor. What sets Eggplant apart is its unique selection of merchandise, most of which is difficult to find anywhere else in the state or surrounding areas. Customers enjoy our vast selection and searching for anything-but-ordinary items that make a statement or exemplify their personality!
Explore Eggplant for luxurious bath and body products, fabulous jewelry, purses and accessories, entertaining and home décor, travel and comfort, custom invitations and stationery, one-of-a-kind West Virginia items, men’s grooming and gifting, and much much more!
Don’t forget their inhouse gift wrapping. One less thing for you to do this holiday season.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Charleston Needs: Kanawha City Yarn Company
Kanawha City Yarn Company was established in 2004 by a local teacher. The shop is filled with beautiful yarns with equally beautiful textures made from different fibers and blends. In addition to name-brand yarn, they also carry WV hand-dyed yarn, Frayed Fibers, and WV-grown natural color yarns from Quaking Maples Farm.
With temperatures turning chilly, people are looking for an indoor hobby. The Kanawha City Yarn Company offers in person and virtual classes for knitting and crocheting students of all skill levels.
In addition to supporting small business, you can use your new skills and create heartfelt gifts for friends and family this holiday season. Or give the gift of a class and start your own knitting club!
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Charleston Needs: Charleston Bicycle Center
One of the benefits of this crazy year is that people are falling in love again with the outdoors. Biking is one of the fastest growing sports, and, for us in the #CWV, Charleston Bicycle Center in Kanawha City is the go-to spot for bikes and equipment.
Tucked away on 53rd street, you find bikes for all riders. Walking in the shop, you are greeted by friendly, expert staff who will help you pick the perfect ride from children’s bikes to big kid mountain biking and street riding models. Charleston Bicycle Center also has a huge selection of apparel, repair items, helmets and more. Pro tip for parents, they can even fix your jogging stroller tires!
Their passion for riding doesn’t stop in the shop. Charleston Bicycle Center, which was established in 1988, is heavily involved in local youth mountain biking programs for students in Kanawha and Putnam counties.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Food, Things To Do | Comments Off on Bridge Road Shops
A true hidden gem in Charleston is the Bridge Road Shops. Tucked away in a quaint spot in South Hills, you will find over 40 establishments, including retail, world-class dining, and local art. Let’s explore what makes some of these places so special.
Retail:
Charlie Boutique: Charlie Boutique has been dressing Charleston women for over 10 years. Curating clothing, jewelry, and accessories with a knowledgeable eye and delivering a sophisticated style. At Charlie you will experience boutique shopping as it is meant to be fun and personal. Charlie also sells masks!
Eggplant: This exclusive gift boutique is your one-stop shop. You will find everything from luxurious bath and body products, fabulous jewelry, and accessories to home décor, custom invitations and stationery.
Geraniums: Looking for Lilly Pulitzer, Diane von Furstenberg, Nicole Miller or other top designers, visit Geraniums. You will always find the perfect outfit for any occasion.
Ooh La Lucy: Is known for its high-quality products and superior customer service. They pride themselves on being your resource for all things chic, unique, and affordable. There is nothing they love more than helping a woman put together an outfit that makes her feel absolutely confident.
Petit Jewelry Designs: This small jewelry shop creates some very special and one-of-a-kind heirlooms.
Yarid’s: Yarid’s Shoes is a family owned and operated shoe store established in 1918. They offer the finest collection of footwear, handbags, scarves and jewelry for ladies and gentlemen, and also carry smashbox cosmetics, butter LONDON nail polish and dr brandt.
Who can shop without stopping for a bite to eat?
1010 Bridge: The newest kid on the block, has an outstanding menu. Try their Cast Iron Seared “1010 Cut.”
Bridge Road Mart & Deli: If you aren’t looking for Bridge Road Mart, you will miss it. Inside you will find groceries, snacks, spirits, and light prepared food.
Caffe Romeo: Whether you need a morning pick me up or an evening treat, stop by Caffe Romeo for coffee or gelato.
Lola’s Pizza: Their handmade, Neapolitan-style pizzas are served piping hot out of the stone hearth oven. Try one of the specialties — popular pies include Fig Jam & Rosemary, Spinach & Feta, and Spicy Shrimp & Sausage — or you can create your own. And don’t forget their award-winning Sangria.
Sarah’s Bakery: Do you prefer sweet or savory? Sarah’s has both. Stop by and grab a Chicken Pot Pie for dinner or some sweet treats for dessert. Keep up with her menu on Facebook.
The Wheelhouse: A local favorite for lunch. A true Charlestonian always orders the Paddlewheeler.
While you are out exploring Bridge Road, don’t forget to #MaskUpCWV and maintain proper social distance.
West Virginia State University is located right outside Charleston city limits. This staple to the community was founded in 1890 as the West Virginia Colored Institute to provide education of black citizens in agriculture and mechanical arts. In 1927, the Institution was accredited by the North Central Associations and soon became West Virginia State College. Over the next decades, WVSC became one of the leading public institutions of higher education for African Americans. Finally, in 2004, the WV Legislature approved WVSC’s transition to University status.
If you haven’t heard of Earl Lloyd, you are not a basketball fan. Mr. Lloyd was a trailblazer in basketball. During his career at WVSU, 1947 -1950, he led the Yellow Jackets to two conference and tournament championships. Earl was named All-Conference for three years and named a two time All-American by the Pittsburgh Courier.
He was the first African American to play in the NBA in 1950 while playing for the Washington Capitols. Later in his career, Lloyd played for the Syracuse Nationals and became the first African American to win an NBA Championship. After he retired, Lloyd went on the become the first African American assistant coach in the NBA while coaching the Detroit Pistons.
Adding to the charm of Charleston’s West Side, 
218 provides every client with a customized personal shopping (or style) experience. April’s style experts will help you choose the perfect pieces for any occasion and give great tips on further styling each piece for multiple looks–giving you true wardrobe longevity. A much-appreciated addition has been the range of inclusive sizing that 218 carries. “The section of the shop is called Volume, because it’s for us ladies that have a little more volume to us.”
The Purple Moon began on a dining room table in the East End of Charleston nearly 20 years ago and has grown to be a nationally recognized seller of vintage, mid-century modern furnishings, accessories and art.
The Purple Moon has also become one of the region’s top estate liquidation consultants and conduct estate sales for families through PM Estate Sales.
Explore Eggplant for luxurious bath and body products, fabulous jewelry, purses and accessories, entertaining and home décor, travel and comfort, custom invitations and stationery, one-of-a-kind West Virginia items, men’s grooming and gifting, and much much more!
Tucked away on 53rd street, you find bikes for all riders. Walking in the shop, you are greeted by friendly, expert staff who will help you pick the perfect ride from children’s bikes to big kid mountain biking and street riding models. Charleston Bicycle Center also has a huge selection of apparel, repair items, helmets and more. Pro tip for parents, they can even fix your jogging stroller tires!
Their passion for riding doesn’t stop in the shop. Charleston Bicycle Center, which was established in 1988, is heavily involved in local youth mountain biking programs for students in Kanawha and Putnam counties.
Charlie Boutique
Ooh La Lucy
1010 Bridge
Lola’s Pizza