by John G. Miller
Managing editor
This and that:
-- AUTUMNAL BLISS: Those who follow this column know of my love of West Virginia's fall season.
There's just something about the beauty of the mountains in the fall that has always led me to love this time of year.
Reports that this year's fall foliage might be more spectacular than usual have me already looking for days to get out and enjoy.
Depending on the part of the state, the best time to get out to see the beauty at its peak varies from mid-September to early November.
Those planning trips can refer to the Division of Forestry's Web site for weekly reports on what areas are nearing peak conditions. Reports will be available beginning Wednesday of next week.
Do yourself a favor. Plan a day or two to get out and enjoy our wondrous state.
My favorite route is U.S. 33 through Elkins and then up to the Canaan Valley region. But I've also enjoyed drives through Monongalia and Preston counties over into the Deep Creek, Md., area.
-- "NEW" RECORDINGS FROM HANK: Traditional country music fans will be thrilled to know that "new" recordings by Hank Williams Sr. may be made available to the public.
A recent court decision gives Williams' children -- Jett Williams and Hank Williams Jr. -- exclusive rights to the "lost songs," according to The Associated Press.
The songs were part of a collection of pre-produced 15-minute radio shows Hank Williams recorded in 1951.
While many were live recordings of some of Hank's classic hits, there were 40 songs that he had never released, according to the AP.
It will be interesting to see whether Williams, 50 years after his death, will have the type of chart-topping success that made him a legend.
-- SIMPLY SPECTACULAR: Don't forget the 23rd annual Liberty High School Band Spectacular is 7 p.m. Tuesday at Hite Field.
This event showcases some of the area's best young musicians as they participate in their respective high school marching bands.
Ten bands from seven area counties will be featured: Liberty, Lincoln, South Harrison, Robert C. Byrd, Buckhannon-Upshur, Grafton, Lewis County, Doddridge County, North Marion and Philip Barbour.
The event serves as a fund-raiser for the host band, Liberty.
Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for students.
Get out and enjoy!
Managing editor John G. Miller can be reached at 626-1473 or by e-mail at jmiller@exponent-telegram.com.