Both of these bills would mainly:
(1) allow an increased 30% credit (from the current 20% credit) for small-sized transactions, between $750,000 and $3.75 million; (2) simplifies the tax credit transfer process for projects under $2.5 million. We need your help in asking our Senators and Representatives to co-sponsor this bill and move it forward. Currently, there are no Senators or Representatives from West Virginia co-sponsoring this bill. If you would like to see a list of projects utilizing the historic tax credit, please visit http://www.preservationnation.org/take-action/advocacy-center/additional-resources/historic-tax-credit-maps/2015/WV_map-and-economic-impacts-and-project-lists-from-2001-to-2014.pdf. How can you help? Please contact your Senators and Representative today. As their constituent, your opinion matters, and these improvements to the tax credit can make more projects viable in West Virginia. It’s as simple as sending an email. They’re contact information is available at http://www.contactingthecongress.org/cgi-bin/newseek.cgi?site=ctc2011&state=wv. All you need to do is complete a contact form asking them to co-sponsor either HR3846 or S2655. If you want to send something more substantial, here is a sample letter. Dear xxx, As a constituent who values the preservation of our state’s rich and diverse heritage, we respectfully request that you co-sponsor the Historic Tax Credit Improvement Act, S. 2655 / H.R. 3846. Your support of this legislation will demonstrate our nation’s ongoing commitment to federal tax policies that help revitalize our economy and preserve Main Street communities throughout the nation. The Historic Tax Credit Improvement Act, H.R. 3846 / S. 2655, introduced in the House by Congressman Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and in the Senate by Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), would reform the federal rehabilitation tax credit for the first time in thirty years in several important ways by:
Since President Reagan signed the federal historic tax credit into law, it has leveraged nearly $117 billion in private investment, created 2.5 million jobs and adapted more than 41,250 buildings for new and productive uses. And the credit more than pays for itself – over the life of the program the IRS has issued $24 billion in tax credits while generating more than $28.6 billion in direct federal tax revenue. Today, it is the most significant investment the federal government makes to preserve our nation’s historic properties. From 2001 – 2014, the Internal Revenue Service awarded almost $28 million in federal historic tax credits to projects in West Virginia, resulting in the completion of 85 projects statewide and nearly $168 million in total development expenditures. For these 85 projects, 3,366 jobs were created, and $34 million in federal, state, and local taxes were generated. Over this thirteen year period, projects were very frequently completed in historic downtowns and for various purposes including downtown development, housing, entertainment, office space, and more. Some of the more recognizable projects include the Quarrier Diner restaurant building in Charleston, the First Ward School Apartment Building in Elkins, the Ritz Theatre in Hinton, the Old JC Penny Building in Huntington that is now home to the Taste of Asia, the Morgantown Beauty College building, and many more. Please consider signing on as a co-sponsor to the Historic Tax Credit Improvement Act, S. 2655 / H.R. 3846. As always, we look forward to continuing our collaborative work with Congress, preservation and partner organizations, business leaders, and individuals working to recognize the value of the historic tax credit, and its role in improving the quality of life in cities and towns across the nation. Your support of the Historic Tax Credit Improvement Act is greatly appreciated. Please let us know what information we may provide to help ensure the federal historic tax credit continues our nation’s successful policy of preserving and revitalizing our older and historic communities. Sincerely,
The Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation has a grant opportunity available to communities primarily focused on community investment projects and public education.
The Lowe’s Community Partners grant program helps build better communities by providing monetary assistance to nonprofit organizations and municipalities looking for support of high-need projects such as: building renovations/upgrades, grounds improvements, technology upgrades as well as safety improvements. Grants range from $2,001 to $100,000, with most projects falling between $10,000 and $25,000. The Lowe’s Heroes employee volunteer program is another opportunity for support, which Lowe’s can provide to some grant recipients to help supplement the labor of projects. Applicants — speak to your local store manager to see if this is a possibility before applying. The Community Partners 2016 cycle dates are: Spring: March 21, 2016 – May 23, 2016 Fall: July 1, 2016 – August 26, 2016 You can only apply for a grant during the cycle dates. During this time the application will become available. Click here to apply. Here are the giving guidelines, and Lowe’s also offers an FAQ. The boards of directors for Wheeling National Heritage Area Corporation(WNHAC) and Reinvent Wheeling are pleased to announce a merger of the organizations, a natural progression as the organizations work together to increase their community and economic impact through historic preservation and economic revitalization efforts. Under the merger approved by both boards, the organizations will become known as Wheeling Heritage and be governed by a 23-member merged board. Reinvent Wheeling will retain its name and identity, serving as Wheeling Heritage’s arm to help shape Downtown’s revitalization. Projects undertaken by both entities will continue as the merged organization continues its plans to activate the community in more initiatives.
Arch W. Riley, Jr., chairman of the Wheeling Heritage board stated, “Individuals, families, entrepreneurs and even corporations want to live, work and play in a community steeped in a rich history. Ensuring that we’re leveraging the development opportunities that our rich history provides, WHNAC encouraged the creation of Reinvent Wheeling in 2009. We’ve been working closely with the group for several years and our merger will not only improve our operations, but will work to engage more stakeholders and residents in the myriad projects under way.” “This merger is a natural next step in the positive relationship that we’ve developed,” said Jake Dougherty, Director of Reinvent Wheeling. “For over 20 years, WHNAC has made significant strides in affecting Wheeling’s economic development through meaningful preservation of Downtown structures and new buildings and entertainment venues. We’re thrilled to continue – and even bolster this work – and have big ideas when it comes to engaging more homeowners and residents.” The merger will bring operational efficiencies that include eliminating duplicative expenses, such as accounting and employee insurance costs. Combined, the organization has four full-time employees and two AmeriCorps members. “Development and heritage go hand in hand as we look toward a future that further embraces Wheeling’s history,” said Jeanne Finstein, Interim Director of Wheeling Heritage. “By merging, we can supplement the efforts of each group with new ideas and energy.” Top initiatives include heritage-focused economic development at the core of the city, restoration of Mt. Wood Cemetery, and renovation of the 1837 Blue Church in East Wheeling. Other key initiatives include: building analyses of historic properties and “preservation” assistance for owners; small business/entrepreneurship assistance; collections of archival materials; the awarding of mini-grants; and an effort to establish a Wheeling Museum. Reinvent Wheeling will continue regular successful events such as Show of Hands, which uses crowdfunding to foster entrepreneurism and has awarded more than $18,000 to projects as a result of eight events. For-profit and nonprofit groups can apply for the micro-grants from a Show of Hands and present a four-minute pitch to the crowd, which votes on projects to fund. Other community initiatives that have spurred social engagement include Big Ideas, Small Business Promotion and Workshops, and Public Space Development. “It’s a great time to be living and working in Wheeling, and we think anyone who wants to can play a role in revitalization projects and benefit from the changes,” said Riley. http://us9.campaign-archive1.com/?u=7d3caf4e57d068cc73a9d6431&id=72b4206769&e=278fd6e927
Applicant will be expected to provide tours to the public and develop museum interpretation for both permanent and temporary exhibits. A master’s degree in public history, museum studies, history or a related field is suggested.
Resume should be mailed to: MCHS P.O. Box 267 Moundsville, WV 26041
Happy Retreat is the home of George Washington’s brother Charles, who is the founder of Charles Town. The oldest sections of the house, which sits on 12 acres, were built in the late 1700s. Efforts have been underway to preserve the property for public use.
A keynote address by Philip Mead, titled “George Washington’s Canvas Home: The History and Memory of the Revolutionary War Headquarters and Sleeping Marquee,” will take place on Friday, April 8, beginning at 7 p.m. at Fisherman’s Hall, 312 South West Street. Mead is a historian and curator at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. Friday will also feature a silent auction fund raiser. Two panel discussions with noted historians and preservation experts will take place on Saturday, April 9 at Happy Retreat, 600 Mordington Avenue in Charles Town. The first session, from 9-11 a.m., will focus on “The History of Happy Retreat.” The second session, from 2-4 p.m., is titled “The Preservation of Happy Retreat.” To participate, reservations are appreciated, but not necessary. For more information, visitwww.shepherdphialphatheta.weebly.com. By Rachael, PAWV VISTA
Did you know that April is National Volunteer Month? This month is all about celebrating service, taking action, and encouraging individuals to engage in their communities. In my opinion, one of the greatest aspects of volunteerism is that there are so many different ways to do it. So, in honor of National Volunteer Month, I have put together a list of service projects happening across the state. Cleanup at Rich Mountain Battlefield Saturday, April 2 at 11 a.m. Join Rich Mountain Battlefield in protecting the battlefield by removing trash and winter debris at Park Day cleanup. Saturday, April 9 at 11 a.m. will be the trail clean up. Call (304) 637-7424 for more information about the event or check out the Rich Mountain Battlefield Facebook page. Address: Rich Mountain Rd, Beverly, WV 26253 Shepherdstown Battlefield Restoration Saturday, April 2, 10 AM till 2 PM – Join the Jefferson County Historic Landmarks Commission for cleanup and restoration work at Shepherdstown Battlefield. Help restore the ground where the September 19-20, 1862 battle was fought. Activities will include landscaping, trash pickup, prep work, removing modern materials and more. For more information about the event contact [email protected] or call (304) 728-3228 Meet at the parking area near the intersection of Through and River Road. Shepherdstown. Bring Gloves! Heavner Cemetery Survey in Buckhannon Saturday, April 9th, from 1 till 5 PM, at the Heavner Cemetery in Buckhannon. Volunteers will record data on the cemetery based on the following criteria: number of headstones in each century, material of gravestones (slate, marble, granite, sandstone, fieldstone, other), and conditions of gravestones (readable, eroded, badly tilted, cracked/broken, broken but standing, broken but no longer standing). No experience in preservation or geology required. Volunteers will be given an informational sheet to help them identify the material and conditions of the headstone. Each volunteer would be assigned an area within the cemetery. The process should take around 3.5 hours, but volunteers may go at their own pace. The more volunteers that can participate, the faster the survey can be completed. The information collected would be used for a preliminary inventory form that’s required for the National Register process. For more information contact Christina Rieth (AmeriCorps Member) at [email protected]. Address: Heavner Cemetery, County Hwy 13, Buckhannon, West Virginia 26201 Volunteer Day at Jackson’s Mill Saturday, April 23, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM – Come help get the Heritage Area at WVU Jackson’s Mill ready for the 2016 season. Projects include: removing and reinstalling fence posts & rails, preparing planting beds in the Heritage Garden, rebuilding the walkway into the gristmill, and other fun & exciting projects. Did I mention there’s pizza involved? A free lunch will be provided at 12:30 for all volunteers. For more information contact Joe Obidzinski (AmeriCorps Member) at [email protected] Address: 160 WVU Jackson Mill, Weston, WV 26452 Preservation Alliance of West Virginia is currently accepting proposals for its next statewide historic preservation conference, scheduled for September 22-24, 2016. It will be held primarily in Beverly, with some opportunity for programming in the immediate Randolph County vicinity (Elkins, etc.). This year’s conference theme will be This Place Matters: Connecting with Historic Places. Conference proposals should relate to the theme and fit into at least one of three tracks:
This is a request for knowledgeable professionals willing to lead one or more of the following:
For more information on each of these positions, necessary qualifications, and applications, please see the guidelines below. Here is a downloadable version of the PAWV conference RFP 2016 Submit proposals via email to [email protected] by April 25, 2016. For more information, please contact PAWV’s Executive Director, Danielle LaPresta Parker, at [email protected] or 304-345-6005. This RFP does not indicate any promise to follow through and implement any proposals. We reserve the right to select different trainers for workshops, sessions, etc. We reserve the right to accept late proposals if insufficient or inadequate proposals for all slots are not received by the deadline. We may suggest revisions to your proposals for your consideration. PAWV staff will organize and direct all events and will have final approval of content. This conference will be funded in part with federal funds from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior and the WV Division of Culture & History, State Historic Preservation Office. Regulations of the U.S. Department of the Interior strictly prohibit unlawful discrimination in departmental Federally Assisted Programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, age or handicap. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility operated by a recipient of Federal assistance should write to: Office of Equal Opportunity, National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20240. Proposal Application Requirements: Professionals interested in providing preservation training for any of the above formats — speeches, workshops, keynote speakers, educational sessions, roundtables, panel discussions, poster sessions, and/or educational tours — should submit a proposal including:
Presenters will be offered free admission to the conference for the day (excluding banquet) of their presentation, plus the volunteer-discount rate to attend the rest of the conference. Presenter fees, when paid, will be negotiated on a case by case basis. Presenter fees may be offered to major speakers, with smaller amounts offered to panel participants and additional presenters if funds are available. No separate travel expenses will be paid. Positions Available:
We are seeking one plenary speaker and two keynote speakers for the following:
Trades workshops are best held at a historic property, with hands-on work performed on the property as part of the workshop. Some workshops may include a classroom component or may be intensive training on a focused topic. Occasionally, other formats – such as a longer training period, or combining multiple skills in one workshop – may be offered. These workshops can be either a half or a full day. Trainers should have extensive experience in the specific skill, thorough familiarity with historic preservation issues regarding that skill, and experience in teaching the skill. Trainers are encouraged to bring additional hand tools for students’ use for hands-on practice. Seminar, panel, or round-table type workshops related to one of the tracks could also be considered for workshop topics or presentations more appropriate to a longer format than the 75 minute educational sessions.
Three Conference Tracks: Conference attendees can choose to attend workshops and educational sessions related to three conference tracks, which focus on specific themes common in historic preservation projects and development. By featuring three different tracks, conference attendees can choose the topic that best reflects their interests and gain the most from their experience. Attendees will have the choice of Thursday workshops and tours reflective of track themes, as well as Friday and Saturday concurrent educational sessions. Proposals should be related to one of the following tracks.
Preservation Alliance of West Virginia (PAWV) is accepting nominations for the 2017 West Virginia Historic Preservation Awards.
The 9th Annual Historic Preservation Awards Banquet will be on Saturday, September 30, 2017, at the Municipal Auditorium in Charleston. Download the PAWV Awards Nomination Form 2017 Here! Guidelines:
Download the PAWV Awards Nomination Form 2017 Here! By Rachael, PAWV VISTA
Every year in the town of Ireland, West Virginia (Lewis County) an Irish Spring Festival is held in celebration of St. Patrick’s day and the Vernal Equinox. But most importantly, it as a celebration of the communities Scots – Irish heritage and a way of welcoming spring to Appalachia. The theme of the festival varies year to year and is inspired by the different plants and animals of spring. This year’s theme is Horseshoes. One of the festivals most unique events is the West Virginia Irish Road Bowling competition. In this old Irish tradition, an iron and steel small cannonball, called a “bowl” is hurled down a 1.2 mile country lane, and the fewest throws to the finish line wins, similar to disc golf. At the moment of the Vernal Equinox, the festival goers trek up a cliff to the Blarney Stone where they stand an egg on end, the church bells ring, and just like that, the festival is over. This year 35th Annual Irish Spring Festival will be held March 17 at 7:00 PM to March 20 at 8:00 PM. For more information about the festival, check out their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Irish-Spring-Festival-110828812328952/ The schedule of events is as follows: Friday March 18, 2016 7:00 pm – Irish Jig Square Dance 7:00 pm – Costume Contest 8:00 pm – House Decoration Winners Announced 8:30 pm – Costume Contest 9:00 pm – King and Queen Coronation Saturday March 19, 2016 Arts & Crafts, Irish themed food and drinks, harp music, an Ireland postal station with the 2016 St. Patrick’s Day collector’s cancellation stamp and a wide array of gift items are features from 9am to 4pm in the Ireland Community Building. Health Screenings by Community Care of WV will be available. 9:00 am -Scavenger Hunt 9:30 am – Kite Fly 10:00 am – Lucky Charms Horseshoe Pitch 10:00 am – Hunting Hounds [Central WV Hunting Dog Association] 10:30 am – Tour de Shamrock [10.5 mile bike tour] 10:30 – Intermediate Harp Workshop [Extra harps available at the church] 11:00 am – Foul Shooting Contest 11:30 am – Harp Concert Rehearsal [Ireland U.M. Church] 1:00 pm – The March “MARCH” Parade 2:00 pm – Harp Concert [Ireland U.M. Church] 2:30 pm – Road Bowling 3:00 pm – Beginners Harp Workshops [Ireland U.M. Church] 4:00 pm – Just Ducky Sweepstakes – Duck Race 4:30 pm – Building Shamrocks Talent Contest 7:00 pm – Luck O’ the Irish Bingo 11:59 pm – Ascent to the Blarney Rock Sunday March 20, 2016 12:30 am – Vernal Equinox Noon to 4:00 pm Shamrock CEOS Arts & Craft Table 1:00 pm – Snake Chase, 10K Walk/Run 1:30 pm – Road Bowling 2:00 – 4:00 pm – “Acoustics Only” Jam Session 4:00 pm – Fried Potato Contest 5:00 pm – Unicorns, Gremlins & Shmoos Pet Show 6:00 pm – Corn Hole Challenge |
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