Final Tree Talk Deals With Tree Stress

ELKINS-The Tree Talks Lecture Series sponsored by the Elkins Tree Board and Kump Education Center, Elkins, continues Wednesday, April 23 at 7 p.m. This series gathers experts to explore the vital role of trees in West Virginia’s changing environment.

This final lecture will feature Ken Beezley, Instructor of Sustainable Resource Management, Davis and Elkins College, discussing “Stress, Strain, and Trees.” His presentation will highlight external stresses placed on trees and how that strain can increase the likelihood of tree failure and the potential damage to people and property.

“From the single tree in your backyard, to street trees in an urban setting and trees found in a campground, a basic understanding of tree risk assessment can assist tree owners and managers,” Beezley said.

This informal and interactive presentation will cover topics related to how trees manage stress from climate change, pruning, and land development while considering acceptable levels of human risk and mitigation.

All lectures in the series are free and open to the public and take place in the historic Kump House located at 401 Randolph Ave., Elkins (across from Kroger). Parking is available in the back accessible by Seneca Road.

For more information about the event, visit kumpeducationcenter.org. For information about the Elkins Tree Board, visit cityofelkinswv.com/city-government/boards-commissions/tree-board/.

KUMP CENTER TO HOST LECTURE ON SOUTH AFRICA

ELKINS—The Kump Education Center will host an international lecture on South Africa Thursday, July 25, at 7 p.m. at the Kump House in Elkins. The presentation titled “South Africa, A World Between Two Oceans” will be offered by Nasra Adan, a visiting lecturer from Prince Sultan University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Adan has traveled extensively worldwide, having lived in her home country of Canada, China, India, Korea, Japan, Kenya, and currently, Saudi Arabia. She can speak seven languages besides her native English: Chinese, Korean, Somali, Arabic, French, Swahili, and Spanish. Her language arts specialization has resulted in a career of teaching essay writing at the college level, and she has taught reading, listening, and speaking as a second language.

Adan’s lecture will feature a power-point presentation and time for questions. She is married to Jacob Zuboy, formerly of Elkins.

The Kump Education Center is located at 401 Randolph Ave., Elkins (across from Kroger). Parking is available behind the Kump House with easy access on Seneca Road. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit kumpeducationcenter.com or the Kump Education Center Facebook page.

Kump Education Center Announces Free Tours for Garden Party Event

Date: June 3, 2024

Contact: Nanci Bross-Fregonara, Communications Director, Kump Education Center

Email: kumpec@gmail.com 

Cell: 304-516-4775

ELKINS—Organizers of the upcoming Garden Party and Pie Auction at the historic Kump House have announced they will be offering free tours of the 1925 home of Gov. and Mrs. H.G. Kump on Saturday, June 8 from noon-4 p.m. as part of the afternoon-long event.

"We are so pleased with all the renovations and recent beautification efforts led by some of our KEC board members. We want to share them with the community by offering the tours at no cost," said Kump Education Center (KEC) director Heather Biola.

Those who have yet to visit the Kump House will be impressed with the craftsmanship of the historic home, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is an excellent example of post-WWI life in America and has one of the state's most extensive collections of original furniture in a public historic building. Interpretive materials, floral displays and art, and docents will enhance the visitor experience.

Volunteers have been busy preparing the Kump house for the event. "Many thanks go to Laura Hawkins and the Mountain School boys who have spent countless hours sprucing up the grounds,” said KEC board member Debra Barsy.

Another highlight of the event is the beloved Pie Auction at 1 p.m., a tradition deeply rooted in the Kump Center's community spirit. This auction, which has become a significant source of funds for the KEC, is a testament to the community's support.

"We invite everyone to attend and bid on the delectable pies crafted by their friends, teachers, and other KEC supporters. The event is not just about pies, but also about the stories shared and the fun atmosphere created by our dedicated auctioneer, Jacob Hornick, who has generously donated his services," said KEC board member Laura Santmyer.

Other activities at the event include children's games and an Arboretum Walk. Volunteers selling old-fashioned lemonade and other refreshments. 

"The Garden Party is our opportunity to welcome the community to our historic facility and see what the Kump Education Center contributes to the area," noted Barsy. "It is our way of thanking all who have helped us for their support."

The Kump House is located at 401 Randolph Ave., Elkins, across from Kroger. Parking will be available behind the home, accessed by Seneca Road. For more information about the event, visit www.kumpeducationcenter.org or email kumpec@gmail.com. 

Cutline: The rose gardens in front of the Kump House will welcome visitors to the Garden Party and Pie Action Saturday, June 8 from noon until 4 p.m. The summertime celebration will include children’s activities, Arboretum Walk, refreshments and free tours of the historic home.