Coal Camp Creations to Open Sunday

On Sunday afternoon, April 23, 2006, McArts will launch its new cottage industry in McDowell County , Coal Camp Creations. The seed for making coal figurines by McArts was launched in December 2004, when Tamarack's Cheryl Hartley called Jean Battlo and suggested that McArts should consider this industry. Battlo eventually contacted McEDA's executive director, Rachel Lester, who was enthusiastic and togeth, the two approached Sen. John Pat Fanning for aid in funding the enterprise. Along with McArts leaders, Reba Honaker, Mary Lou Odum, and after months of meetings, plans, and proposals, Coal Camp Creations established and artist Dina Brown was hired. This afternoon will be hosted for McArts by Rachel Lester.

Events will begin at 3 pm with a performance of Coal Camp Memories by noted West Virginia actress, Karen Vuranch. At 4:30 pm, following a brief description of plans for the August Coal Heritage/Miners Reunion weekend, the first original figurine will be unveiled to the public. Conceptualized, with a history by Battlo, Brown's figurine was presented in prototype to Governor Manchin at McDowell County Day in January 2006.

Battlo's idea with the first figuring was to commemorate the “free and independent state of McDowell County ”, “home of the nation's coal bin”.

A reception follows the ceremony and unveiling.

Please come and help us celebrate part of McDowell County 's new hope.