Why I Love Carter County Bio: • Born in Elizabethton • Grades 1-12 in Carter County School System, graduating from Unaka High School in 1976 • Earned certification at Herman Robinson Vocational School in Drafting in 1978 • Worked at Elizabethton Electric System from 1980-1994 • Elected as Carter County Trustee in 1994 to present • Recognized as a Tennessee Certified Public Administrator • Son of Robert Lewis and Janice Gentry • Married my wife, Kim Davis Lewis, in 1982, and have two children: a son, Chad Lewis and wife, Brittany; a daughter, Andrea Lewis; and three grandchildren, Gracie, Carter and Millie
my entire extended family over the years. It was always a treat when we camped in June so we could go to the top of the Roan Summit and see the rhododendrons in bloom. Second, we love to go to Watauga Lake and enjoy our time spent in the summer. Fishing and relaxing is what I like best. 3. Do you think living in Carter County changed you in any way? No. I am not changed in any way because I have lived here all my life. I am, however, a person who is aware of the fact that by growing up in Carter County, things were instilled in me by my family, friends, neighbors, teachers and my church family that help me be the person I am today. 4. Favorite time of year? We are blessed to have all four seasons to enjoy in Carter County. Springtime is special because everything is coming back to life. The flowers are blooming and the trees are sprouting new growth. The summer is full of warm weather and nice evenings to enjoy at the lake with the family. The fall is so beautiful in the mountains with all the colors changing. In winter, we are sometimes blessed with a beautiful snowfall. I guess you can tell, I don’t have a favorite. I love them all.
1. What makes Carter County unique by comparison to other places? Carter County is the most beautiful place to live and raise a family. One of the biggest differences today is the people of Carter County. The folks around here are hardworking, dedicated people who help each other in times of need. Not only are the folks wonderful but we live in a community where we can be safe and take in all the natural beauty of the mountains and streams in our county. In addition, our TVA lake is the cleanest and most beautiful lake in the state. We can enjoy many outside activities including the Tweetie Trail and the local state parks. We are the only city in East Tennessee with a Covered Bridge to admire and it’s right here in town.
5. First time visitors recommendation not to miss. First if you go downtown, make sure to visit the local shops and eateries and walk to the Covered Bridge for a picture and the local Veterans War Memorial. Second, I would take a hike on the Appalachian Trail. You could go fishing or take a raft ride on the Watauga River. If you would like a more relaxing day, rent a boat at a local marina and enjoy your day. There is so much we can do in Carter County. The cost is very reasonable and the memories will last a lifetime.
2. What is your favorite place to visit in Carter County? I actually have two places I love to visit. First, Roan Mountain State Park has been a place where my family and I have visited many times. We’ve enjoy camping with
Why Do You Love Carter County?
Randal Lewis
Is it the wonderful natural resources? How about the historic downtown district? Perhaps it’s the people who make up our community? Whatever the reason, we want to know why you love it here. Tell us why you love Carter County and you could be featured in an upcoming edition of Carter County Living. Just send us a message telling us why you love Carter County. You can reach us by email at news@elizabethton.com or you can mail it to 300 N. Sycamore St., Elizabethton, TN 37643. 21
