Disability Independence Celebration begins with community art exhibit

WEIRTON -- The community kicked off its third annual Disability Independence Celebration on Monday with an exhibit highlighting the artistic talents of area residents of all ages and abilities.

A reception was held at the Summit Art Gallery, serving as the first event in a weeklong series of activities emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting every individual.

"This is our third year," explained Molly Mossor of the Top of West Virginia Arts Council, which coordinated the exhibit with the City of Weirton and the celebration committee.

Sarah Doughty, visitor experience manager for the Top of West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau, which operates the Summit Art Gallery with the Arts Council, said the exhibit features a variety of works, including paintings, coloring pages and paper-based three-dimensional pieces, providing participants with a creative outlet.

"It gives them a way to express themselves," she said.

The artists represent a range of ages and abilities, with some creating work individually and others participating through classes. They come from communities throughout Hancock and Brooke counties.

Mossor said the exhibit showcases the talents of people with differing abilities while highlighting their contributions to the community.

"Every art piece is beautiful," Mossor said.

The exhibit will remain on display at the Summit Art Gallery, located in the Three Springs Crossing business plaza, through July 29.

The weeklong schedule of events is part of local observances marking the 1990 signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. A committee of area organizations, city officials and volunteers organized the activities.

In addition to Monday’s reception, activities include:

-- A flag football scrimmage between Special Olympics Hancock County athletes and members of Weirton Firefighters Local 948 and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 84 at 6 p.m. today at Edwin J. Bowman Field.

-- Inclusive Books and Candy Bingo at 5 p.m. Wednesday in the activity room of the Mary H. Weir Public Library, in cooperation with the Family Resource Network and Inclusion Circle.

-- An Inclusive Pool Party from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at Starvaggi Memorial Pool.

-- Inclusive Bowling from 6-8 p.m. Friday at Holiday Lanes.

-- The Disability Independence Day Celebration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Weirton Event Center. The event will feature food and refreshments, guest speakers, a performance by “Cloak and Dagger On the Air” focused on implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act and other activities.