Hi, I'm April — co owner of Von Blaze with my husband Chef Chris and now, soon to be another great spot, The Green Door.

After more than 8 months of delays waiting on city permits and approvals, we’re finally at the finish line… but just short of being able to open. We've poured our hearts, energy, and every ounce of fight into this — while also working hard to keep Von Blaze thriving during this journey.

Thanks to a generous group of investors, we were able to get the ball rolling, and got almost everything done or ordered but now we're facing unexpected, last-minute expenses tied to inspections and updated requirements that weren’t in the original plans. We have to be open by ‼️August 15 ‼️and time is not on our side.

I’ve never been one to ask for help — I’m usually the one offering it — but I’m swallowing my pride and reaching out to our community, friends, family, and anyone who believes in building something special in downtown Morgantown.

This isn’t just about opening another restaurant. It’s about bringing something extraordinary to our city. A place with soul, vision, and purpose — where people gather, connect, and feel something real.

Over the past two years, I’ve faced more personal battles than I ever imagined. Health issues, multiple surgeries, hospital stays, among other things. It’s been overwhelming, but I’m not giving up. I want our legacy — and our love for food, people, and this community — to live on in these spaces.

If you’ve ever believed in what we’re building at Von Blaze… if you’ve ever shared a meal with us or felt the magic we’re creating… we’re asking for your support.

Every dollar helps us clear the final hurdles — electrical, last-minute code updates — and get The Green Door open for the people it was made for.

Let’s keep the dream alive. Let’s light up downtown Morgantown. Let’s open The Green Door.

With all my heart,

April