West Virginia - Wild and Wonderful

About West Virginia

West Virginia is noted for its mountains and diverse topography, its historically significant logging and coal mining industries, and its political and labor history. It is one of the most densely karstic areas in the world, making it a choice area for recreational caving and scientific research.

Business

West Virginia is full of opportunity for any business with a growing economy and a highly dedicated workforce. Whether you are running an existing business or thinking of starting a new business you can find all of the information you need throughout this business section.

Education

West Virginia is fortunate to have a tremendous education system with a high standard of excellence. Please use the information provided here to learn more about the wealth of educational opportunities in our great state.

Employment

West Virginia is home to one of the finest workforces in the country based on our hard work and commitment to quality. Whether you are looking for new job opportunities, enhancing your job skills or researching future employment trends you can find all of the information you need throughout this employment section.

Family

West Virginia offers the perfect balance of a rural and urban setting that suits a variety of lifestyles. This is a state where you can go whitewater rafting in the morning, go to an art exhibit in the afternoon and attend a concert in the evening. Whether you just moved to the Mountain State or your family has been here since it was founded, you are part of our community.

Health

Maintaining proper health is vital to ensuring the highest quality of life possible. West Virginia strives to provide one of the best health care systems in the country that is affordable and available to all residents of the state. This section contains numerous resources to assist you in accessing the health care services provided in the state.

Tourism

Exhilarate in the lasting beauty and natural wonder scattered throughout West Virginia. From unmatched outdoor recreation to world-class resorts, breathtaking scenery and a variety of cultural and historic attractions, West Virginia is an ideal spot to plan your next adventure. Discover for yourself what makes West Virginia wild and wonderful.

 Photography Workshop at Cass Scenic Railroad Scheduled for September 11 - 13 

1/22/2009  Cass Scenic Railroad State Park’s September photography workshop will feature national award winning photographer Clayton Spangler from Friday, Sept. 11, through Sunday, Sept. 13. Registration is underway now and with space limited to 25 participants, the class is expected to fill up quickly. For workshop registration information and reservations, contact Cass Scenic Railroad State Park at (304) 456-4300.

Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park offers train excursions that transport visitors back in time to relive an era when steam-driven locomotives were an essential part of everyday life. Participants of the photography workshop can arrange to stay overnight in one of the restored company houses in the community of Cass. The steam locomotives, historic town and the rich beauty of the area will provide participants with many enjoyable learning opportunities.

The workshop will begin Friday evening for a meet-and-greet from 7-9 p.m. Saturday will feature a variety of classroom and field experiences. The workshop will wrap up Sunday afternoon. Workshop topics include:

·         Composition techniques

·         What makes a successful photograph

·         Visualization exercises

·         Equipment being use

·         Using flash effectively

·         Field work to reinforce lessons

·         Workflow practices

·         Image enhancement technique

All skill levels are welcome. Participants should bring their own cameras, film or memory cards, tripods, sturdy walking shoes and outdoor clothing. Electric cords and outlets will be available for those interested in bringing their laptop computers.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is located in Pocahontas County. Company house rentals are available year-round. The 2009 train trips to Whittaker Station, Bald Knob and Spruce begin May 22. A 2009 schedule is available online at www.cassrailroad.com or you may request a printed brochure.

About the instructor

Clayton Spangler’s photographic images have appeared in outdoor magazines such as Wonderful West Virginia, Paddler, Southern Living, as well as brochures, advertising, and marketing projects nationwide. His work is also is included in the Professional Photographers of America’s traveling loan collection.  Spangler is a member of the Professional Photographers of West Virginia, the Society of Photo Finishing Engineers, the National Association of Photoshop Professionals, as well as the Society for Certified Photographic Consultants.

In addition to his journalistic and environmental portraiture, Clayton also shoots fine art, landscapes and nature photography. His work captures the essence of location, mood and feeling in every shot. His work is represented by the Art emporium Gallery in Charleston W.Va.

Contact Information

Andy Bennett 
304-456-4300 
andybennett@wvdnr.gov