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One of the more interesting ideas sown locally in recent years is underway right now -- Wheeling's inaugural Fashion Week. And some of the items being discussed from those involved in highlighting the city's burgeoning fashion scene could be part of the remedy to help forge a new vision for the city.
Consider this, from Spencer Porter, designer and founder of the Wheeling-based nonprofit Why Don't You Stay Awhile, during a panel discussion Tuesday at the Ohio County Public Library: "Success to so many young people is getting out of here. But I think that's good as well because I think there (are)things to learn outside of Wheeling and bring back to Wheeling."
Why Don't You Stay Awhile both encourages young people to stay local and become difference-makers in the community while also encouraging those who left Wheeling to return and bring the ideas they learned elsewhere back home. It's an approach that both engages young people that have remained here while also offering a line to those that left. As we continue to consider how to chart a new path for Wheeling, having young voices with diverse life experiences will be key to creating a plan that provides for all residents.
That's why events such as Fashion Week truly have so much to offer for our city. New ideas are being presented; new voices that otherwise might have been unheard are being given a platform. As we've noted in our ongoing focus on the city's population, Wheeling future does not start with just the same old ideas; instead, let's tap into those who've left and returned, those who visit other cities, those who will be here and raise their families here, and create a path forward.
All that aside, there still are several remaining events during Fashion Week. Today, there will be a pop-up at Two Times: Clothing and Collectibles. Waterfront Hall will host events on Friday and Saturday. And on Saturday evening, there will be a runway show at Waterfront Hall featuring local designers.
The designers for the show "all have such strong ties here," said Emily Rouse, one of the week's organizers. "They're coming in to support our city which is great."
Indeed. Wheeling needs new ideas and voices to help find its future. For those involved in this inaugural Fashion Week, we thank you for helping to set the stage for a new and improved Wheeling.