IMPACT REPORT 2021 - Oglebay Foundation
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
IMPACT REPORT 2021
Dear Friends,
Community involvement has been the chief factor in the development of
Oglebay as a self-sustaining enterprise and is one of the finest As 2021 nears its end, we are filled with gratitude to you,
examples of what can result if we put the American Ideals to work. Oglebay Foundation’s generous and steadfast donors. Year-end
FOUNDATION
– Courtney Burton, Jr. giving accounts for 50% of the total number of gifts we receive
Grandson of Earl & Sallie Oglebay each year and our final push to cross the finish line is critical.
ERIKS E. JANELSINS
President & CEO Your response is inspiring. We’re seeing increases over 2020, a
DAVID M. WEAVER
record year in total gifts and in the number of first time donors.
Chair
LISA ALLEN
The impact of your continuing philanthropic support is realized
Vice Chair in the Oglebay Foundation’s ability to invest $7 million into the
CARTER A. KENAMOND, M.D. parks this year. The love for your parks demonstrated through
Secretary/Treasurer your donations will enable us to do even more in 2022. This
D. LYN DOTSON positive trajectory embodies how “the park” becomes “my
JOSEPH C. EDDY
park/your park/our park.”
SUE SEIBERT FARNSWORTH*
In another positive milestone Oglebayfest returned from last
CHRISTOPHER C. FREEMAN year’s cancellation with record numbers of people gathering
SUZANNE ROHRIG GAISER and celebrating (safely) the importance of the park to our
JOSEPH N. GOMPERS
community. And now Festival of Lights is here. We asked Frank
O’Brien, Executive Director of the Wheeling/Ohio County
WILBUR S. JONES, JR.*
Convention and Visitors Bureau what our spectacular holiday
R. GREGORY MCDERMOTT light display means to the community. His insights are featured
DAVID H. MCKINLEY in this report.
CHAD H. REMP
The parks celebrate connections, honor traditions, protect
CHERYL DEAN RILEY
the land along with its flora and fauna and provide value as a
JOAN C. STAMP place of friendships. Your investment makes the parks we love
G. RANDOLPH WORLS possible and is key to the Foundation’s impact for current and
Chairman Emeritus future generations.
Emeritus Board Members:
ROLAND L. HOBBS*
Wishing you Happy Holidays!
ges
G. OGDEN NUTTING*
GARY E. WEST
g C h a n
*Board Members who established
the Oglebay Foundation in 1996
Sincerely,
Excitin S
22
pring 2
0
Coming ing of
Kline W named the
22, the d re
uary 20 novated an vation set
ing Jan re
Beginn dge will be 45-room reno
on Lo of a
Wils part .
ing as g 2022
West W etion in sprin
pl
for com
OGLEBAY FOUNDATION STAFF:
Eriks Janelsins – President & CEO - ejanelsins@oglebayfoundation.org
Randy Worls – Chairman Emeritus - rworls@oglebayfoundation.org
Michael Hires – Director, Annual Giving & Communications - mhires@oglebayfoundation.org
Kathryn Kelly – Director, Grants & Proposals - kkelly@oglebayfoundation.org Read about our exciting
David Weaver Eriks Janelsins renovations starting in 2022
Cathy Voellinger – Office Manager & Executive Assistant - cvoellinger@oglebayfoundation.org in an upcoming issue!
Board Chair President & CEO
The Oglebay Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation devoted to inspiring donors to invest in Oglebay and
Wheeling Park. The foundation raises strategic support through donations from private individuals, corporations, and
foundation giving. Over the last five years, the Foundation has provided $25 million supporting ongoing programs and
PS: Please stop by the Hilltop and say hello.
projects in the parks. For more information, visit www.oglebayfoundation.org.
We welcome every opportunity to thank you personally.
THEN&NOW
AMERICAN IDEAL | 3
Oglebay Through The Years
“
VICTORIAN ANGEL
ONE OF THE ORIGINAL
5 DISPLAYS that debuted
in 1985. The angel used
to welcome drivers to the
We know our
Festival of Lights at the Zoo
1985
2021
entrance before Snoopy
replaced her in 2001. Now
found along the drive behind
Wilson Lodge.
“
donation is an
investment in the park
we love. That’s why
we make an annual
gift every year.
Make Your 2021 Gift Today!
WELCOME TREE Scan the QR code with your
The power of technology!
Our new 70-foot-tall phone’s camera.
Welcome Tree at The
Hilltop features thousands
of dancing high-resolution
lights with the infinite ability
to combine color, music,
light and animated imagery
all while soaring seven
stories into the night sky.
FOUNDATION
Information about specific support options is available at
Oglebay continues to be the crown jewel of municipal parks anywhere in the world.
Your investments in the Oglebay Foundation ensure that Oglebay will be here for
oglebayfoundation.org • 304-243-4166
generations to come. Submit your family photos to foundation@oglebay.com.
“Having just experienced our first
Oglebayfest, now we know why everyone
wanted it back!”
BOB PECKENPAUGH
PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE WHEELING PARK COMMISSION
IS BACK!
Above - Bob and Jennifer
Peckenpaugh admire one
of the many craft booths at
Oglebayfest
Right - Oglebayfest parade
Oglebayfest makes a triumphant return in 2021
IMPACT: Thanks to the community's love of this 44 year tradition, the park saw more than a 30% increase in total operating revenue over last year!
AMERICAN IDEAL | 9
AMERICAN IDEAL | 9
As the park movement took shape different “NTC schools and continuing education
organizations were created to advocate meetings present an amazing opportunity
for public land use and the education of for Oglebay to partner with organizations
park employees. The American Institute that prioritize professional development,
of Park Executives (AIPE) was one of those staff training and membership growth,”
organizations, headquartered here at
Oglebay Park.
AIPE was one of five founding organizations
that merged to create the National Recreation
and Park Association (NRPA). NRPA created
the Revenue Development and Management
School which has been offered at Oglebay
since 1960. A popular school that is the
cornerstone of our National Training Center
(NTC) programing that today offers 11 schools.
In the 1980s Oglebay's NTC and NRPA
Anniversary
partnered with North Carolina State
University to streamline continuing education Candace Goode-Vick, North Carolina State
opportunities for park professionals. As University and Diane Sauer, Director Supervisors’
an accredited college, NC State provides Management School work with Oglebay's
DiMuccio to prepare for students in 2021.
continuing education credits, a major draw
for students and certified professionals.
National Training Center Under the leadership of Herb Faulkenberry,
Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the
Faulkenberry shared. “Oglebay is well placed
to address the current needs for business
Annual 7,200
Wheeling Park Commission, Sherry DiMuccio meetings and conferences. We have ample
$1.3+ million in total revenue (NTC Executive Director) and Tamara Rohl meeting space and first rate technology.
room nights (NTC Coordinator) manage the logistics for
IMPACT: 5,100 CEU awarded all schools. No small undertaking, the schools
generate $1.3 million in total revenue each
year. The schools generate an average of
As we consider the future, combining in-
person training with virtual capabilities,
the program’s current success is just the
Professional development, best practices, and farmers, agriculture professors and students, 7,200 room nights annually. beginning.”
the exchange of ideas are part of Oglebay’s as well as breeders. Oglebay encouraged
DNA. Earl Oglebay leveraged his beloved these gatherings and funded the creation of
Waddington Farm in a major experiment to associations and clubs including 4H.
improve soil quality and agriculture yields. Supporting the professional
At its peak, Waddington Farm employed 75 The turn of the last century began the great
full-time employees. Farm operations were park movement that was pivotal in preserving development of the people in
divided into 15 departments, each with its large tracks of land for public use, but it wasn’t our industry is a priority for
own manager and accounting system. until the late 1920s that thoughtful design,
planning and maintenance of parks and The Toro Company.
The farm produced everything from dairy recreation facilities became a critical part of
products to asparagus and cut flowers. It had community responsibility. Earl Oglebay’s gift PAULA SLIEFERT,
Senior Manager, Sports Fields and Grounds
pigs, chickens and sheep as well as orchards of Waddington Farm to the City of Wheeling
The Toro Company
of peaches, pears, plums and apples. in 1926 (accepted in 1928) was really ahead
Waddington became a gathering place for of its time.
National Training Center of Oglebay AMERICAN IDEAL | 11
AMERICAN IDEAL | 11
“The incredible part of the NTC experience Michael Hires (Director of Annual Giving and
as a whole is that the schools, the students, Communications).
and the instructors
are so energetic. The next school to join the roster is the
They’re passionate Playground Maintenance Technician Program
about what they which is slated to begin in September 2022 in
do in the field and cooperation with Indiana University’s
are excited to share Eppley Institute for Parks and
their stories and Public Lands, a new partnership
experience with the for NTC.
rest of the group,”
DiMuccio offered. The concept for NTC was straight
“They are subject forward: offer accommodations
Sherry DiMuccio,
matter experts and to organizations looking to
NTC Executive Director come from all over bring large groups together for
the world. Having training during low occupancy
the opportunity to witness this diverse group periods at Wilson Lodge. By
of industry leaders is really inspiring to me.” leveraging resources, sharing
The schools cover a wide range of topics, The Toro Company. By aligning the company expertise, and staying open
everything from Event Management and with the Maintenance Management School’s In 2019 the NTC launched the Park to every possibility, the NTC
Sustainability to Medical Transport Leadership 50th anniversary, we saw an outstanding Foundation School. An exciting two year team continues a rich history of
and Association of Zoos and Aquariums opportunity to connect to our customers curriculum focused on the development and education and enlightenment
beyond our bottom line. These implementation of best practices for park at Oglebay. History repeats
scholarship dollars are well support and advocacy, with none other than itself. We believe Earl Oglebay
placed to ensure that our industry our own Eriks Janelsins as one of a dozen would be pleased that his
Professional Development. This year marks continues to innovate and invest in the instructors. This past August, the first graduates beloved farm continues his
the 50th Anniversary of Park and Recreation industries that support our corporate mission included Oglebay Foundation’s Kathryn tradition of excellence.
Maintenance Management School. As one providing tools to help with the beautification Kelly (Director of Grants and Proposals) and
of the most popular schools that NTC offers, and sustainability of the land,” Paula Sliefert,
Maintenance Management has a 28-30 The Toro Company’s senior manager, sports
person waiting list every year. fields and grounds shared.
The Toro Company is an industry leader in This year as the exclusive sponsor of the
the turf, landscape and construction space. Maintenance Management School, The Toro
Covering everything from design and Company, along with The Toro Foundation,
manufacturing to marketing and support, The is providing scholarships to 2nd and 3rd
Toro Company provides innovative equipment year MMS students. The Toro Company’s
and solutions that keep thousands of
parks, public spaces and stadiums
in pristine shape. In 2010, The Toro
Company joined the NTC group
of partners to support the people
who use their equipment everyday
with continuing education
opportunities.
“Supporting the professional development commitment is scheduled through 2024 with The Toro Company's first foray with NTC resulted in the Green School, now the Sustainability Institute. First year class
of the people in our industry is a priority for the option to renew. photo – professors in the front row include: Eriks Janelsins (first left) and Paula Sliefert (6th from left), 2012.
Donor IMPACT:
AMERICAN IDEAL | 13
Thanks to the help of
our generous donors,
Because children in Ohio County,
regardless of family 2020 Year-End Giving from Nov. 1 – Dec. 31
of you
income, have access
to the many activities $715,000 raised in matching grant funds supporting:
Oglebay and Wheeling
Park have to offer.
Winter
is more + Good Zoo Expansion
fun. +
+
Trees and Trail Maintenance
Garden Improvements
+ Access to the Parks
Cumulative Unrestricted Giving
made the following possible:
2017 Aerial Challenge Course
2018 Celebrating 90 Years of Oglebay
2019 Swan Paddle Boats
Make a gift to your park.
2020 32-Foot-Tall Climbing Wall
Make Your Gift Today!
Scan the QR code with your 2021 70-Foot-Tall Welcome Tree
phone’s camera. oglebayfoundation.org/give
AMERICAN IDEAL | 15
“I discovered a passion for food
I didn’t realize I had.”
ASHLEY OLESNEVICH
EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF
Building the
TEAM Ashley Olesnevich
Executive Sous Chef
Spoiler Alert: We LOVE Ashley.
Food and Beverage (F&B) is an incredible
revenue generator for the Wheeling Park Ashley grew up helping her great grandmother
Commission. Beginning in 2019, the Oglebay and grandmother cook meals for the family. She
Foundation began a multi-year renovation enjoyed baking cakes for family celebrations. While
studying to become a paralegal, the Pennsylvania
plan to update all the event and meeting
Culinary Institute (now part of the Culinary Institute
spaces throughout Wilson Lodge. of America) held an open house to gauge student
interest. “I discovered a passion for food I didn’t
Leadership gifts from donors including Jeremy realize I had,” Ashley mused.
McCamic, Joan and Fred Stamp, and Flip
and Gary West were leveraged to make the The course work that sparked her interest was
beautiful upgrades we see today possible. “Garde Manger” the technical term for cold
food display such as salad plating, making Pâtés,
sausages and charcuterie. Ashley loved building
These investments have paid off handsomely. F&B IMPACT: 28% increase tallow sculptures and canapés.
Comparing calendar year 2020 to calendar year to date with our strongest
year through October 31, 2021, F&B total months still to come! As part of her studies, Ashley had to intern as an
revenue is 28% higher and our two strongest apprentice which she did at Oglebay starting on
months of the year are just under way. July 1, 2002 – we’re glad she did! Upon graduation
in February 2003, she was hired full-time as Third
Cook. Ashley’s hard work, attention to detail and
Beautiful spaces and décor create the overall positive can-do attitude saw her through
ambiance for incredible dining experiences, the ranks to Second Cook, Garde Manger and
but it always comes down to the food. The Banquets, First Cook – supervising an entire
following profiles give you a glimpse into the department of up to four cooks depending on the
F&B team that make our taste buds sing. season.
Building the TEAM AMERICAN IDEAL | 17
AMERICAN IDEAL | 17
In November of 2011 Ashley was promoted to Sous including the opportunity to visit the Smithsonian
Chef and Garde Manger overseeing breakfast. By and see Julia (Child)'s kitchen.”
2019, Ashley was overseeing all banquets and this
past October Ashley was made Executive Sous Exploring Ashley’s Oglebay experience she
Chef, overseeing the entire kitchen. shared, “The first time I came to Oglebay was in
the fall, the park took my breath away, the trees,
When asked to describe her role Ashley explained, the colors, everything. I look for opportunities
“Chef Mirko sets the standard. He creates the to get out and see the park every day. Everyone
menu and directs how food is to be presented. always asks what keeps me here. While there have
My job is to make sure Chef’s standards are been opportunities for me to go elsewhere, I love
implemented.” the park and the people I work with.”
Ashley’s favorite style of cooking is the hearty Her typical day starts between 6 and 7 am ensuring
home cooked meals of her childhood. She has breakfast is going smoothly. Depending on how
been influenced by many chefs including Gordon busy the restaurant(s) is she’ll work the omelet
Ramsay – “his direct, to the point cooking” and station. She then does the ordering for the coming
Anthony Bourdain, as well as strong female chefs days, inventorying the store room. Her office is just
including Giada De Laurentiis, Rachel Ray and of off the line, so she can tell when the pressure is on
course Julia Child. “Honestly, you have me with and her team needs her to jump in.
any dish that profiles roasted garlic and parmesan
cheese.” Ashley’s food philosophy, “Follow your gut. If
you think it will taste good, go for it! Tweak the
“In 2007 we attended a CIA cake decorating class seasonings until you get the results you’re looking
in Washington D.C. It was a wonderful experience for. If it doesn’t work out order a pizza and try
again tomorrow!”
Mirko Loeffler
Executive Chef
Jonathan Story
Director Food & Beverage Chef Mirko started his career as an apprentice
chef in southern Germany in 1974. His
Jonathan Story watched myself stammering, culinary experience has taken him across
comes to red-faced and sweating, Europe, the United States, China and
Oglebay from I knew I needed to force the Caribbean. He has owned and
Atlanta where he myself to be in front of operated restaurants, taught in culinary
held the position people. So, I got a job in a schools and served as the Executive Chef
of Director of restaurant knowing nothing for multiple 5 star properties around the world.
F&B at Callaway about wine or liquor and “Oglebay is a unique property, with a great
Gardens. very little about food. I Most recently, Mirko was the Executive Chef at team. They’re very upbeat, always smiling. It’s
didn’t know the difference Bedford Springs. While in the final discussions clear they work hard, regardless of how busy we
When asked to between vodka and about an opportunity in North Carolina, a friend are; the team gets the job done. They’re able to
describe how whiskey. I instantly fell for the and former colleague, Wes Perry, (Oglebay’s accomplish so much. I’m proud to be the chef of
he came to Oglebay, Jonathan explains, “My industry. The whole experience director of maintenance) called him about an this family.”
preference was to stay in the south east, but my of dining, the camaraderie of the opportunity here.
recruiter kept bringing the Oglebay opportunity people, it all fell into place.” 2021 Light Up Night, showcased some of Chef
to me – like three or four times – telling me just After a marathon week of interviews, cooking and Mirko’s talents and 2022 will demonstrate his
take a look. When I got here, I was blown away by Fast forward 23 years, Jonathan conversations, Mirko accepted the position of and the entire culinary team’s talents with a new
the beauty and the mountains. After speaking with and his wife Sonja are living at Executive Chef at Oglebay. dining option on the lake view patio in the works,
Bob (Peckenpaugh, Wheeling Park Commission Oglebay. The couple is often spotted updates to the Garden Bistro and more.
President & CEO), I knew right away I wanted to wandering the park with their dog, Talking to Chef, his love of food is clear. “I love any
be a part of the Oglebay team. Bob’s enthusiasm Stella, or exploring their new kind of ethnic cuisine that honors the flavors, taste
for the parks as we experience them today and his community. and traditions of that culture,” Chef
vision for their future really sold me.” offered. “The most important
Jonathan sees a great deal part of my job is making people
Describing his entry to the F&B industry, Jonathan of unmet opportunity with F&B in the park. He happy. We want them walking in
confessed, “I was giving an oral report in a college and the team are mapping out plans for 2022 and and out with a smile while making
history class that my professor recorded. When I beyond. their next reservation.”PLANS Making a Difference IN THE PARKS
AMERICAN IDEAL | 19
Charitable planned gifts offer a tremendous
opportunity for you to provide valuable financial
support, receive a benefit in return, and leave a Wheeling native, C.J. Kaiser is a law
lasting legacy. partner with Phillips, Gardill, Kaiser &
Altmeyer, PLLC focusing on Corporate and
Wheeling Park was created through 170 leadership Commercial Law. His wife, Debbie who
gifts made in December of 1924, and 97 years
was born in Ridgewood, New Jersey, is a
later the community continues to benefit from
the visionary philanthropy of civic leaders who retired elementary school teacher. Debbie
purchased Wheeling Park and created the taught at Woodsdale Elementary for over
Wheeling Park Commission. 30 years. The couple met at Wittenberg
University and will celebrate their 50th
Through a bequest, Earl Oglebay left a legacy of
Anniversary this summer.
750 majestic acres, gardens, historic farm buildings,
a tradition of quality hospitality, and a vision for a
future of first class recreational opportunities that They raised their three sons, Perry, Chris
has grown into the park we all know today. and Jeff, here in Wheeling, spending
many afternoons and weekends exploring
You don’t have to be rich to leave a legacy. There
Oglebay’s Good Zoo and walking the
are several giving strategies that can be used to
fund the things you love. paths and trails throughout the park.
Today the Kaisers enjoy exploring the zoo
An estate gift is one of many ways you can make a and the park with their six grandchildren.
difference in the parks. At the Oglebay Foundation,
Eriks Janelsins can guide you or your financial
Last year, Debbie and C.J. saw firsthand
advisor on the giving vehicle that makes the most
sense for your circumstances. the challenges pandemic related closures
were having on the park and decided
IRA ROLLOVER BENEFITS to make a generous donation using IRA
funds. The gift was used in part for a
An IRA rollover allows people age 70½ and older matching campaign that raised $715,000
to reduce their taxable income by making a gift
directly from their IRA. to support Trees and Trails, the Good Zoo
and Gardens – a great fit for the couple’s
Benefits of an IRA charitable rollover interest and use of the park.
• Avoid taxes on transfers of up to $100,000
from your IRA to the Oglebay Foundation “When we made the gift we suggested to
• Make a gift that is not subject to the Eriks (Janelsins) please use the gift wherever
deduction limits on charitable gifts
the need is greatest, but if possible leverage
• Support an area of Oglebay or Wheeling our donation for activities, so that when
Park that you love.
vaccines are available, Oglebay will be the
How an IRA charitable rollover gift works center of the community getting back in the
• Contact your IRA plan administrator to make
swing of things,” C.J. explained.
a gift from your IRA to support the Oglebay
Foundation. The Foundation exceeded its 2020 year
• Your IRA funds will be directly transferred end goal. So with donor intent in mind,
to the Oglebay Foundation (FEIN: 55- some of Debbie and C.J.’s gift went to
0750128) to ensure the park you love is here
fund expanded live music that was offered For more information on ways your
for generations.
in multiple venues 5-6 nights a week all estate can shape the parks you love,
• Please note that IRA charitable rollover gifts go to oglebaygiving.org or contact
do not qualify for a charitable deduction. summer long. The Kaisers continue to E A R L W. O G L E B AY
support the park in many ways... talk about LEGACY SOCIETY the Foundation at 304-243-4166.
• Please contact us if you wish for your gift to
be used for a specific purpose. making a difference!AMERICAN IDEAL | 21
Winter, a lingering season, is a time to
gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental
journey, and enjoy every idle hour.
– John BoswellTHE WEST SPA GOLF
AMERICAN IDEAL | 23
1 MILLION+
PAR 3 RANGE
BALLS HIT
3,005
BY THE MANICURES
85,570
168
+ PEDICURES
NUMBERS ROUNDS OF GOLF
AT PARK COURSES
WEDDINGS
3,485 361
JUNIOR GOLFERS
20,000+ HOURS MASSAGES IN PROGRAMS
TO SET UP LIGHTS LODGING
2020 50,868
44%
INCREASE IN
DINING
3,650+ 9,739
ROLLS OF
TOILET PAPER
DOZENS OF
ACCESS 9,972
EGGS BOXES OF
TO THE PARK TISSUES
USES
TRAFFIC
7,500+ 971,365
POUNDS OF
FLOWERS
IN HANGING
BUTTER BASKETS
10,000+
GLASSES OF 2,470 20,470 12,641
30% INCREASE
IN SWIMMING
CHAMPAGNE
TOASTED HOURS OF
INDOOR TENNIS
ICE RINK
ADMISSIONS
ACTIVITY
BANDSAMERICAN
AMERICAN IDEAL
IDEAL || 25
25
AMERICAN IDEAL | 25
Forever Grateful
tradition of hospitality, a log fire was set in easily from a ski lodge to a golf shop with the
the Pine Room to keep everyone warm with change of the seasons.
refreshments offered.
The OSC assisted with the purchase of
Skiing opens up the world The Oglebay Ski Club (OSC) was organized
in early 1940. The club raised money and
compressors that could manufacture
enough snow for skiing in two days,
purchased a ski-tow consisting of one provided the temperatures dipped below
thousand feet of rope that ran back and 28 degrees. The snow-making equipment
Skiing at Oglebay had humble beginnings
forth from the No. 9 green to the No. 4 hole and a 1,200 foot Pomalift (the first of three)
back in 1939. It all started with two tracks
powered by a tractor. cost approximately $30,000.
on the hill above the Crispin Golf Course,
one was designated for skiing, the other for
The popularity of winter sports was Several local families have multiple
sledding and tobogganing. These tracks
apparent from the start. By 1962, a wood generations of ski enthusiasts who have
welcomed winter sports to the
and stone clubhouse was erected on enjoyed Oglebay’s slope. Bill Jones, Oglebay
park and with Oglebay’s
the opposite side of Route 88. Built to Foundation Board Member and former
support both, the Par-3 golf course, and Wheeling Park Commissioner, remembers
the newly-reoriented ski slope on the north his father putting a snow suit on over his
edge of the park which now featured a business suit to ski on his lunch break from
385 foot drop. The idea of combining running Stone & Thomas Department Store.
the ski area with the Par-3 golf course It’s incredible to think that the Ohio Valley
streamlined operations because the has a ski area within 15 minutes of downtown
facility was designed to convert Wheeling.Thanks to the sport, my family and I have
experienced so much. Skiing opens up the world.
Paul Exley and grandson Paul and Hali Exley
Paul Perkinson hit the slopes.
Once bitten by the ski-bug, Paul was hooked. One hiccup in the family’s Oglebay skiing
“As children we had to attend church and saga is the period from 1997-2004. During
Sunday school weekly… unless it snowed. this time, the park made the difficult decision
I prayed for snow.” Growing up, during the to close the slope due to the increased costs
season, he skied at Oglebay after school in making snow, but there was no greater
every chance he got. He went on to captain champion about the power of the sport and
the WVU club team and was a competitive its importance in the community than Paul
skier on the pro-circuit from 1975-1979. Exley.
Measuring life by ski seasons, Paul says he’s
Paul Exley started skiing at Oglebay in 1956. in his 65th ski-season, and it all started at In 2004, technology improvements made rental equipment. The 1962 clubhouse
The then three-year old skied with his family Oglebay. “Thanks to the sport, my family and snow making more affordable. Thanks was then named the Nutting Winter Sports
and remembers the rope-tow crossing Route I have experienced so much. Skiing opens to the leadership and generosity of the Complex. With the slopes re-opening, Paul
88 with the slopes going right into the Crispin up the world.” Nutting family and a group of enthusiasts saw an opportunity to encourage interest in
Golf Course. “My mom and dad started spearheaded by Paul and Hali, the Oglebay the sport by opening Alpine Skis & Boards, a
skiing in their 40s and it became a family Paul and his wife, Hali, raised their two Foundation raised more than $1 million to local ski shop selling equipment from all the
passion. As their youngest, I would ride daughters, Jessica and Christina, in their bring skiing back to the park. Combined with top brands.
between my mom’s skis. Their passion for home near the park. Given their proximity a grant from the National Park Service Land &
the sport was so contagious that in addition to the slopes, Paul and Hali along with Paul’s Water Fund, the park was able to purchase Paul and Hali have made ongoing annual
to our entire family enjoying the sport, they parents, Ben and Bonnie, made sure that the and install a triple chair lift, a modern snow- investments improving the skiing experience
started taking business associates out west girls learned to ski – and at very early ages. making system and make possible other at Oglebay. “My dad always told me, ‘We
on ski trips to Aspen and Vail.” Jessica’s lessons started at 18 months! improvements, including purchasing new need to give back to the community.’” TheAMERICAN IDEAL | 29
AMERICAN IDEAL | 29
Given the success of skiing in particular, Paul and Hali Exley have made a five year
the Wheeling Park Commission has made commitment to investing in skiing at Oglebay.
a commitment to invest in ski updates When asked about their investment, Paul
again this year. The park is continuing the offered, “I’m forever grateful to the sport and
momentum by focusing on: maintaining the community. That little ski area shaped
equipment; expanding and maximizing our my whole life. Of course I’m going to make
snow making capabilities – growing the sure that skiing is available for generations to
number of snow guns and increasing our come.”
electric capabilities, as well as maximizing
water efficiency; training staff on best snow
making practices to ensure an increased
efficiency in snow making; investing in new
rental equipment; and working on a 5-year
plan to ensure the future of skiing at Oglebay.
Technology improvements and park
The Exley family investments still have to reckon with
Mother Nature. All of these investments
are changing the dynamic. The current
fire pit and patio outside the clubhouse was want to drive two-plus hours, fighting big snow making system will be enhanced with
funded with a gift in 2006 and the pit was crowds at the next closest ski area. additional portable snow guns and hydrants
converted to gas a few years later. allowing for better coverage on the main
Along the way the Exley family grew. Jessica slope. These improvements will increase our
In 2020, the couple donated money to make and her husband Joe Hoover have two sons, snow capacity, especially during warmer Oglebay's snow machines
Oglebay NASTAR (NAtional STAndard Race) Brayden (7) and Easton (4). Christina and her periods. are ready to assist.
certified. Bringing NASTAR to Oglebay, husband, Kyle Perkinson have a son, Paul (3).
means that not only can skiers of all ages Paul shared that skiing was a requirement to The investment in local year-round Skiing returns to
perfect their racing strategy but also qualify joining the family for both sons-in-law. As recreational opportunities for the Oglebay (2004)
to race nationally. Paul has been NASTAR with so much of life, Paul and Hali love having community is driving the decision. Paul
racing for 40 years and believes that this the opportunity to teach their grandsons not Exley offered, “Wheeling is fortunate to
added dimension will create a new dynamic just to ski, but to love the sport; everything have local skiing available. We have to
in the park – keeping our little hill feeling comes full circle. invest in its future to make sure we can
fresh and relevant. keep it going.”
2020 was a tough year on many fronts, but
“I can’t tell you how many parents express Oglebay was a safe haven. The park saw The community continues to rally around
their gratitude for the ski area. They can bring an amazing influx of golf and tennis play, skiing. The sport can do so much for
their kids up to Oglebay after school or on a lots of people on the hiking trails, people so many people. Skiing is part of the
blessed-snow day, drop them off knowing just wanting to be outside. Skiing was no Access to the Parks program, so cost
the kids will have a great time without any exception. “People who may have tried a is not an obstacle for any child in our
problems. Mom and dad can watch from the sport in the past gravitated to those sports community to participate. Skiing
lodge or set a pickup time to collect them,” again last year,” Danny Ackerman, General builds friendships, it fosters a love
Paul said. Additionally, some of their older Manager of Golf and Ski at Oglebay and of the outdoors, it brings people
neighbors and friends shared that they don’t Wheeling Parks observed. together.AMERICAN IDEAL | 31
LIGHT UP
NIGHT
2021
NOVEMBER 4
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS • 2020 IMPACT:
85,000+ visitors stayed at least one night in Wheeling
generating more than $4 million in room revenue plus another
$2.8 million in visitor spending, clearly demonstrating the
positive economic impact of Oglebay's Festival of Lights.
Frank O'Brien
Executive Director
Wheeling/Ohio County Convention and Visitors BureauAMERICAN IDEAL | 33
l i k e a kid
WE WANT TO “ I f y o u w a
t o
nt to
Ogle
f e
b
e
a
l
y ’ s F e s tival
KNOW! aga i n , g
of Lights.
o
I ju s t l ov e i t . ”
mber 5
Ann, Nove
t i o n s f o r food t y s u r ro u nds
a y s ! L o ts of o p
if e s o m e b eau ve ly
t g e t aw a c t i v i t i e s “Aw p r e ss i
“Gre a
u n g a m es and t s t a t e l y a nd im
t e . F a m ily f T h e l a n d is this vas e r ty.”
on s i redibl e ! d p ro p
iew s a r e i n c
” manicure
needed. V t o walk a ro u n d .
r e a sy
Supe
pte mber 17
Shawn, Se
ct ober 22 e n t a b o ve
Angela, O
e f r o n t d esk w
th e,
ay last w e e k e n d for our “ Tracy at - to o k h e r t i m
g l e b time. b e y o n d u s.
s t a y e d a t O
n a m a z i n g and t h i n g t o
“We
v e r s a r y. W e had a
p lays in p l a i n e d e very d ly. ”
wedd i n g a n n i
l. The ho l i d a y d i s ex a nd s o f r i e n
b e a u t i f u a llmark r m a t i ve
Very info
i n g w a s r e i n a H
Everyth e e l l i k e we we
l o d g e m ade i t f
i n g t h e g rounds
the r
W e l o ved explo n t h e l o dge.
movi e . e vening s i
c i n t h e e trees ctober 5 in person.
h e l i ve m us i
o s e e t h Margie, O ial m e d ia , o r
and t e t email, soc !
i s t h e p e rfect tim r f r o m yo u v ia
fo r yo u , w orks for us
r lad to hea tion works
Novembe n g i n g c olors.” We're so g form of communica tw e c a n d o for you!
ch a Whatever e ' r e do in g and wha
w how w 6
Let us kno m • 3 0 4-243-416
M A K E S YOU foundatio
n@ogleba
y .c o
WHAT ?u d
l e b ay P ro
Kris t y, N ove m ber 14 #Og
The Oglebay Foundation is on social media.
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.255 MANSION DRIVE – WHEELING, WV 26003 FOUNDATION
You can also read
