The Marshall County Historical Society is set to host its annual installation banquet at 6 p.m. Monday, March 17 at the historic Strand Theater, offering attendees an evening of fine dining and cultural entertainment.

Tickets are $25 per person, with reservations required. To secure a spot, individuals can contact Kara Gordon at the Cockayne Farmstead or call 304-845-1411. The meal will be provided by Alexander’s on 7th Street.

The evening’s program promises to be a highlight, featuring Stan Bumgardner, a prominent figure in West Virginia’s cultural scene. Formerly the editor of Goldenseal Magazine, Bumgardner now works with the Folklife program. He will entertain guests with a blend of storytelling and live music, showcasing traditional instruments and sharing tales that celebrate the region’s rich folklife heritage.

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The Marshall County Educational Foundation will hold its annual fundraiser at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 6, promising an afternoon of laughter and entertainment. The event will take place at the John Marshall High School Center for the Performing Arts and feature a comedy hypnosis show by nationally recognized comedian and hypnotist Mike Lee.

Ticket prices are set at $35 per couple, $20 for single adults, and $10 for students 18 and under. To purchase tickets, contact Jeff Miller via email at jmiller@bhbglaw.com or by phone at (304) 639-8737. Proceeds from the event will support a variety of programs and activities at John Marshall High School, benefiting clubs, teams, organizations, and individual students.

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John Marshall High School celebrated a time-honored tradition with the recent crowning of its 2025 Queen of Queens. Kendra Callahan emerged as this year’s titleholder, captivating the audience and judges alike. Mylie Scott was named First Runner-Up and Regan Miller took home the title of Second Runner-Up, rounding out the top three with a strong showing that earned applause from peers and attendees. Laiken Jones was voted Miss Congeniality, deemed the friendliest, most approachable and most supportive contestant by her fellow participants. Friends, family, and faculty filled the venue to cheer on the contestants, creating an electric atmosphere of support and celebration. The 2025 pageant once again proved to be a memorable occasion, highlighting the talent and spirit of John Marshall High School’s student body.

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Corbin Miller, a dedicated member of the John Marshall High School LEO Club, was recently honored with a certificate for his outstanding volunteer efforts throughout February. The award, presented by the local Lions Club, celebrates Miller’s commitment to community service and highlights the impactful work being done by LEO members at both John Marshall High School and Moundsville Middle School. In addition to celebrating Miller’s achievement, the Lions Club is gearing up for more charitable initiatives. From 4:30-8 p.m. Thursday, March 20, Perkins Restaurant in Moundsville will host a Dine to Donate event. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will support the Lions Club’s community sight screening programs, which provide essential vision care to local residents. Diners can also participate in basket raffles, offering a chance to win prizes while contributing to the cause. The event doubles as a collection drive for used eyeglasses. Attendees are encouraged to bring any old glasses they have at home.

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The Marshall County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce its annual Ladies Luncheon, set for 11 a.m. Thursday, April 17 at Grand Vue Park.

This year’s speakers bring a wealth of experience and insight to the table. Amanda Mosman, a physician assistant at WVU Medicine Reynolds Memorial Hospital, will share her journey in healthcare. Amy Dobkin, founder of Amy Dobkin Communications and Joy Maker Mediations & Breathwork, will offer perspectives on communication and wellness. Rounding out the trio is Alex Weld, executive director of Generation West Virginia, who will speak on leadership and community impact. Together, they form a dynamic panel sure to leave attendees motivated and uplifted.

The $25 ticket price includes a catered lunch, providing a chance to network with other inspiring women from the Marshall County area. For more information or to reserve a spot, contact the Chamber at 304-845-2773.

Adding a sweet twist to the event, a Wine & Chocolate Raffle Basket will also be up for grabs. Raffle tickets are priced at $5 each or five for $20, with proceeds supporting the Chamber’s community initiatives.

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The Marshall County Family Resource Network is teaming up once again with the Mountaineer Food Bank to bring a Mobile Food Pantry to local residents. Due to a recent scheduling update, the event will now take place from 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 20, at the Marshall County Fairgrounds — a change from the previously announced time and location.

Families in need are invited to drive up and receive a food box, which volunteers will place directly into their vehicles. Entry is via 12th Street, and one box will be provided per household while supplies last.

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Marshall County Schools is excited to announce 30 individual student scholarships for this summer’s Grand Adventure Leadership Camps, held at Grand Vue Park. Eligible students are those aged 5-12 currently attending any Marshall County public school.

To apply, complete a short survey for each child on the Marshall County Schools website (boe.mars.k12.wv.us). All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, April 1. Applicants will be notified of their scholarship status via email after the deadline.

Secure your child’s spot for a summer of fun and leadership!

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March marks the 40th anniversary of Music In Our Schools Month, as designated by the National Association for Music Education. To honor this, Marshall County Schools Superintendent Shelby Haines has signed a resolution proclaiming March as MIOSM locally, emphasizing music’s lifelong benefits and the need for equitable access for all students.

This year’s theme, “United through Music,” will be celebrated by Marshall County’s music educators and students through school events.

“The music programs offered through Marshall County Schools impact the lives of all students,” Haines said. “We are blessed to have such talented music educators who share their passion with students on a daily basis.”

Meanwhile, local music teachers attended the West Virginia Music Educators Association Conference in Charleston, enhancing their skills and showcasing student performances under renowned conductors.

Music education’s social-emotional benefits shine through in classrooms daily, culminating in “informances” that highlight student growth.

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The Marshall County Chamber of Commerce has opened applications for its high school scholarships. Students can find them at www.marshallcountychamber.com, request them by email, or obtain copies from local high schools. Two scholarships are available: the General Scholarship and the Technical 9 Scholarship. For details, visit www.marshallcountychamber.com.

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Finally for this week’s column, I’d like to note this Wednesday, March 12, marks Marshall County’s 190th anniversary. Established in 1835, the county–and one of its high schools–is named for John Marshall, the fourth Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Serving from 1801-35, Marshall’s 34-year tenure shaped American law, most notably through Marbury v. Madison. This 1803 ruling established judicial review, empowering courts to strike down unconstitutional laws — a cornerstone of the U.S. legal system still felt today. The milestone celebrates the county’s link to this pivotal figure.