Joe Manchin III, Governor
Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release
For release: October 17, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

WINNERS SELECTED FOR HISTORY IS ALIVE ART CONTEST

Charleston, W.Va. –  Representatives from West Virginia State Parks today announced it will recognize the winners of its "History is Alive" art contest Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 10 a.m. at the Cultural Center at the State Capitol Complex.

Kim McHenry, West Virginia State Parks programming services coordinator, said the contest was very successful as nearly 100 entries were received throughout the summer.

"We were thrilled to receive such wonderful artwork from such talented folks," McHenry said. "We conducted this contest to celebrate the history of our state park system, and the artwork created for this contest made this celebration very special."

According to McHenry, this is an important year for State Parks as the 2005 Legislature proclaimed this year as "The Year of the Shay" as it marks the 100th birthday of Cass Scenic Railroad's Shay No. 5 engine, which is the oldest operating Shay locomotive in the world.

"We encouraged folks of all ages and skill levels to send in original pieces of art to help commemorate this centennial milestone and in honor of parks and their importance in the history of the state," McHenry explained. "Each work of art submitted is unique and displays the beauty of our state."

According to McHenry, there were five categories – Children ages 5-7, 8-10, 11-14, 15-17, and adults 18 and older. First-place winners in each category will receive one-week stays at a West Virginia State Park cabin. Second-place winners will receive two-night stays at a Cass Scenic Railroad State Park cottage as well as four train tickets to Whittaker Station. Third- place winners will receive the West Virginia State Parks Collectors Edition MONOPOLY Game.

"I would like to thank every entrant for their efforts in creating such wonderful works of art," McHenry added. "We appreciate each artist for celebrating West Virginia's history along with us."

Following the Oct. 19 press conference, photos of the winning artwork will be posted on www.wvstateparks.com . Additional contest information, including a complete set of rules and entry form, is available at www.wvstateparks.com . More information about the "History is Alive" contest is also available by calling Kim McHenry at 558-2764.

**DNR**