Friends of wild places,

As a board member of the West Virginia Wilderness Coalition, I’d like to invite you to a special event in celebration of the Birthplace of Rivers National Monument initiative and West Virginia’s rich musical heritage.  The citizen campaign to preserve the Birthplace of Rivers area of the Monongahela National Forest aims to establish the only National Monument in the Mountain State, and would protect an area of recreational, ecological and cultural significance, while bringing sustainable economic benefits to mountain communities.  Please join us at the Irish Pub in downtown Lewisburg on Friday, February 22^nd at 8 p.m.  to celebrate this historic initiative and enjoy a sampling of some of the Greenbrier Valley’s best traditional Appalachian music.  Hear the sounds of Patrick O’Flaherty until 9p.m., followed by The Hell for Certain String Band, Allegheny Hellbenders and more! The event is sponsored by the West Virginia Wilderness Coalition and the Greenbrier River Watershed Association.  Come out to learn about the great work these organizations do to protect our area’s public lands and water resources.  There is no charge for the event, but donations in support of our efforts are much-appreciated.  Simply pay what you can and enjoy a fun evening of music and advocacy. 

Video: Greenbrier County fiddler Dennis Ott explains why preservation of the Birthplace of Rivers’ landscape is connected to preservation of our musical roots

Special offer:  For a limited time, supporters contributing $50 or more will receive a free 13”x19” hand-printed poster (image attached), compliments of WVWC Executive Director Mike Costello and Printedappalachia.com.   These original prints come straight from a hand-carved linoleum block, and retail for $30.  Get yours today by contributing to WVWC’s National Monument efforts!

Can’t attend the event in Lewisburg, but still wish to contribute (and receive your complimentary, hand-printed poster)?  No problem.  WVWC gladly accepts contributions via PayPal! Visit the link to make your tax-deductible donation, and receive your gift in the mail.

Thank you for your continued support of our efforts to save the Mountain State’s wild places!  I hope to see you at the Irish Pub next week!