About Berkeley County, WV

"On the Go" for October

10 - Identity Theft Seminar at the Martinsburg Library - for more info: call (304) 267-8933

11 & 12 - Berkeley Springs Apple Butter Festival

11 - Hedgesville Heritage Days in downtown Hedgesville

16 through 19 - Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival

17 - Feast for The Arts "A Taste of France" call 304-263-0224

18 - Maryland Symphony Orchestra MasterWorks season featuring violinist Rachel Barton Pine

24, 25, 26, 31 - Old Opera House Night Watch

25 - Adam Stephen House pumpkin carving contest 6-9pm - for more info: call (304) 267-4434

25 - Taste of Transylvania "Dinner with Dracula" fundraiser for WV Filmmaker's Guild

27 - Maryland Theatre Tribute to Benny Goodman and Peggy Lee

In spite of hurricane Hanna's threat, spirits weren't dampened for the West Virginia State BBQ and Bluegrass Festival, "Pickin' in the Panhandle", held this weekend at the Lazy-A Campground. Attendance may have been light for the Saturday kickoff due to rain, but folks rolled in Sunday taking advantage of the perfect weather and festivities.

The highlight of the weekend was the great music preformed by nationally renowned bluegrass bands on the main stage. Musicians were also performing at the popular Pickin' Porch concession and beer garden area. Senator Robert Byrd sent a representative onstage offering his sentiments that he could not attend. God bless him, he loves his fiddle and did it justice in the day.

Fierce cook-off competitions always arise at such events and this weekend was no exception as the ribs, chicken, and brisket rolled off the grill for the judges to decide the contest winners. There was something for everyone to enjoy throughout the weekend of festivities including craft vendors and the kids' korner. It was evident that there was not age barrier for fun this weekend.

Welcome to DeFluri's Fine Chocolates, the sweetest place in town where truffles just melt in your mouth. Brenda and Charlie Casabona are veteran chocolatiers and wizards of the finest confections you've never even dreamed of. There is a basket filled with over the top chocolate "Twinkies" that are a big hit and yet they offer the old favorite standby English lemon drops.

If you crave it, they have it!

The Casabona's chocolate factory is located in the heart of Martinsburg's historic district in the 50's era building that once housed the McCroy's Five & Dime Store. They have lovingly restored the premises preserving the quant conveyed features within including the soda-fountain lunch counter, tin ceiling tiles, and are currently expanding the store front facade. Every piece of chocolate is produced onsite using pure natural ingredients in their 12,000 square-foot factory preserving freshness for your taste buds.

DeFluri's Fine Chocolates began their business in Vienna Virginia and moved their factory and showroom to Martinsburg in 1998 and has since become an icon in the downtown area. Stop by their establishment and treat yourself to the finest confections imaginable.

Source: Metropolitan Regional Information Systems, Inc. - MLS Resale Data

Well, it is STILL a great time to purchase real estate!! Even radio announcers, who shall remain nameless--but play the piano and tell us how to live a good life, say real estate is still a good investment. Prices have now come to a place that buyers can afford more home. And buyers are getting an interest rate that still is affordable. WV still has homes priced in the $140,000.'s. That is amazing to me as a 30 year REALTOR! When you hear consumers talk about their own home, look them in the eye and you will know what a wonder it is to own! In WV, the American Dream of homeowning is alive and well. Think of your payment if you buy in the middle $100,000.'s. So, the moral of my story is buy a home to live in. You will have an investment in your financial future, as well as an investment in your happiness. If you ever have any questions about owning a home in WV, feel free to call me up at 304-263-7800.