By David Lillard
Each July in Jefferson County, the curtain rises on a growing variety of arts, entertainment, and cultural offerings. From the Contemporary American Theater Festival’s five-play repertory to Shepherd University’s quiet historical walks featuring characters in historic dress, from the 10th annual Goose Route Dance Festival to the Over the Mountain summer art show, there’s a lot to see and hear. Plus, there’s a new art gallery in Charles Town, one celebrating its three-year anniversary in Shepherdstown, and a new art school in Shepherdstown. The month ends with an …

Grant to Provide Momentum for Shepherdstown’s New Library Plans
The Shepherdstown Public Library has received a $5,000 grant through the 2010 FOCUS WV Brownfields program.   The grant will fund discussions with the Shepherdstown community about reclaiming the former Shepherdstown Municipal Dump for use as a new library.  The dump, which was used from 1954 to 1969, is located behind Elmwood Cemetery.
Dubbed the “Landfill to Library Project,” the plans for a new green, state-of-the-art library envision more space for all library functions, parking for patrons, and close proximity to Shepherdstown Elementary and …

An Over The Mountain Preview
The 20th annual Over the Mountain Studio Tour won’t take place until November, but you don’t have to wait until then to see the art or the artists. The tour’s 25 artists and craft-workers preview new work at the War Memorial Building Men’s Club, German Street, Shepherdstown, Friday July 10 through Sunday July 12. The event begins with a wine reception Friday, 5 to 8pm. The show and sale continue Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 6pm.
Artists reparesenting all areas of Jefferson County will exhibit in one …