Images Washington County, VA: 2008

2008 | IMAGESWASHINGTONCOUNTY.COM | VIDEO VIGNETTES TM

OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, VIRGINIA

SHOPPING IS HOPPING Mall becomes regional destination

All Their World’s a Stage Barter Theat Theatre celebrates 75 years

RETURNING TO HER ROOTS Author Barbara Kingsolver writes best seller here

SPONSORED BY THE WASHINGTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2008 EDITION | VOLUME 8 TM

OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, VIRGINIA

8 CO NTE NT S

WASHINGTON COUNTY BUSINESS

F E AT U R E S 8

20 Shopping Is Hopping

ALL THEIR WORLD’S A STAGE The Barter Theatre celebrates 75 years of success and growth in Abingdon.

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TALK OF THE TOWN Best Art Town, Best Place to Retire: Abingdon earns national accolades.

16 WEEKEND WANDER Dine in excellent restaurants, enjoy live theater and experience the outdoors during a weekend in Washington County.

35 RETURNING TO HER ROOTS Famed author Barbara Kingsolver’s latest novel details her family’s experiences living on a Washington County farm.

39 AN ART LOVER’S BUFFET Quality galleries and talented artists give this town “Arts of Historic Proportion.”

The Highlands makes Washington County a shopping destination.

22 Biz Briefs 24 Chamber Report 25 Economic Profile

D E PA R TM E NT S 4 Almanac: a colorful sampling of Washington County culture

28 Image Gallery 32 Portfolio: people, places and events that define Washington County

43 Sports & Recreation 45 Health & Wellness 48 Community Profile: facts, stats and important numbers to know

41 THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME Students here don’t have to travel far for a great college education.

This magazine is printed entirely or in part on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

ON THE COVER The Barter Theatre Photo by Brian McCord

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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OF WASHINGTON COUNT Y SENIOR EDITOR KIM MADLOM

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COPY EDITOR JOYCE CARUTHERS ASSOCIATE EDITORS LISA BATTLES, SARAH B. GILLIAM, BILL McMEEKIN, ANITA WADHWANI

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ASSISTANT EDITOR REBECCA DENTON STAFF WRITERS CAROL COWAN, KEVIN LITWIN DATABASE PROJECT MANAGER YANCEY TURTURICE DATA MANAGERS RANETTA SMITH, KRISTY WISE EDITORIAL ASSISTANT JESSY YANCEY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BRANDON LOWE, JOE MORRIS, RAVEN PETTY INTEGRATED MEDIA MANAGER DESHAUN GOODRICH

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SALES SUPPORT MANAGER SARA SARTIN STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFF ADKINS, TODD BENNETT, ANTONY BOSHIER, JESSE KNISH, IAN CURCIO, BRIAN M CCORD PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT ANNE WHITLOW CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEITH HARRIS WEB DESIGN DIRECTOR SHAWN DANIEL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR NATASHA LORENS ASST. PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CARDEN

WEB SITE EXTRA

PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR HAZEL RISNER SENIOR PRODUCTION PROJECT MGR. TADARA SMITH PRODUCTION PROJECT MGRS. MELISSA HOOVER, JILL WYATT SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LAURA GALLAGHER, KRIS SEXTON, VIKKI WILLIAMS LEAD DESIGNER CANDICE SWEET GRAPHIC DESIGN JESSICA BRAGONIER, ERICA HINES, ALISON HUNTER, JANINE MARYLAND, LINDA MOREIRAS, AMY NELSON WEB PROJECT MANAGERS ANDY HARTLEY, YAMEL RUIZ WEB DESIGN RYAN DUNLAP, CARL SCHULZ COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN CORY MITCHELL

MOVING PICTURES

PLUS

VIDEO 1 INSIDE LOOK Join us on a virtual tour of Washington County through the lenses of our award-winning photographers at imageswashingtoncounty.com.

AD TRAFFIC MARCIA BANASIK, SARAH MILLER, PATRICIA MOISAN, RAVEN PETTY

CHAIRMAN GREG THURMAN PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BOB SCHWARTZMAN EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT RAY LANGEN SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT JEFF HEEFNER SR. V.P./SALES CARLA H. THURMAN SR. V.P./OPERATIONS CASEY E. HESTER

VIDEO 2 WHITE’S MILL Watch corn being ground at White’s Mill, and tour this historic structure and the nearby mercantile at imageswashingtoncounty.com.

V.P./SALES HERB HARPER V.P./SALES TODD POTTER V.P./VISUAL CONTENT MARK FORESTER V.P./TRAVEL PUBLISHING SYBIL STEWART V.P./EDITORIAL DIRECTOR TEREE CARUTHERS MANAGING EDITOR/BUSINESS MAURICE FLIESS MANAGING EDITOR/TRAVEL SUSAN CHAPPELL PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR JEFFREY S. OTTO CONTROLLER CHRIS DUDLEY

VIDEO 3 BARTER THEATRE Join Artistic Director Richard Rose for a virtual tour of the historic Barter Theatre.

Visit imageswashingtoncounty.com.

ACCOUNTING MORIAH DOMBY, RICHIE FITZPATRICK, DIANA GUZMAN, MARIA McFARLAND, LISA OWENS RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR SUZY WALDRIP COMMUNITY PROMOTION DIRECTOR CINDY COMPERRY DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR GARY SMITH

SEARCH OUR ARCHIVES Browse past issues of the magazine by year or search for specific articles by subject.

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EVEN MORE Read full-length versions of the magazine’s articles; find related stories; or read new content exclusive to the Web. Look for the See More Online reference in this issue.

IT SYSTEMS DIRECTOR MATT LOCKE IT SERVICE TECHNICIAN RYAN SWEENEY HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER PEGGY BLAKE CUSTOM SALES SUPPORT PATTI CORNELIUS SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR RACHEL MATHEIS SALES COORDINATOR JENNIFER ALEXANDER OFFICE MANAGER SHELLY GRISSOM RECEPTIONIST LINDA BISHOP

CU S TO M M AG A Z INE M ED I A

Images of Washington County is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Washington County Chamber of Commerce 179 E. Main St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 Phone: (276) 628-8141 • Fax: (276) 628-3984 E-mail: chamber@eva.org www.washingtonvachamber.org VISIT IMAGES OF WASHINGTON COUNTY ONLINE AT IMAGESWASHINGTONCOUNTY.COM ©Copyright 2008 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

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WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

A GARDENER’S PARADISE Virginia is a great place to garden. We have long growing seasons, abundant rainfall, fertile soil and a mild climate in which many different kinds of plants thrive. Find out more at imageswashingtoncounty.com.

VIRGINIA CUISINE: AN ECLECTIC MIX From shrimp, shad and oysters to spoonbread and red-eye gravy over grits, a range of regional recipes is ready for the tasting. Find out more at imageswashingtoncounty.com.

A B O U T T H I S M AG A Z I N E Images of Washington County is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. In print and online, Images gives readers a taste of what makes Washington County tick – from business and education to sports, health care and the arts.

“Find the good – and praise it.”

– Alex Haley (1921-1992), Journal Communications co-founder

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Almanac

Now That’s a Big Pig It began in 1950 as the Burley Tobacco Festival and Farm Show, and today is simply known as the Washington County Fair.

The fair today runs for six days in mid-September and draws more than 60,000 visitors to the Washington County Fairgrounds. The Virginia Association of Fairs named the Washington County extravaganza “The Best Overall Fair in Virginia for 2006.”

Activities include agriculture contests, cattle judging, carnival rides and country music concerts. Entertainers who have appeared in the past include Garth Brooks, George Strait, Martina McBride, Bill Monroe and Crystal Gayle.

Wow: An Actual Drive-In Abingdon is home to the oldest continuously operated drive-in theater in the state of Virginia.

The Moonlite Drive-In is a one-screen landmark on Lee Highway that dates back to 1948. Washington County resident William Booker owns the facility, which has parking for 454 vehicles.

Ticket prices are $5 for ages 12 and up, while kids 11 and under are admitted free.

People can listen to the movies via outside speakers or on their car radios at 87.9 FM.

Still Grinding Away You can still get fresh cornmeal at White’s Mill.

The mill has been providing meal and flour since the late 1700s, and it used waterpower for its grinding process until 1989. The landmark was listed in 1974 on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors today can see the old equipment and visit the on-site mercantile store. Freshly ground products that sell for $3 a bag include yellow cornmeal, buckwheat flour, ground flax seed and gluten-free products.

The White’s Mill Foundation also hosts various community events at the site, including the annual Harvest Days in October. The festival features music, fishing and food.

SEE VIDEO ONLINE | Watch corn being ground at White’s Mill. Visit imageswashingtoncounty.com.

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Grip It and Rip It Hopefully, golfers will always hit ’em long and straight at the courses situated in Washington County.

Abingdon is home to Glenrochie Country Club, featuring an 18-hole, Par 72 private course. The Greenway Creek Golf Course in Glade Springs is a public 18-hole course. In Damascus, golfers can play nine holes at the Deer Field Golf Course, which is bordered by the Jefferson National Forest.

Meanwhile, nearby Bristol also has two venues – Clear Creek Golf Club and The Virginian Golf Club.

Bottled Up Excitement Here is a toast to Abingdon Vineyard & Winery.

The winery now offers more than 20 varieties along with a tasting room that is open from March to December. The Abingdon company’s white wines include chardonnay, viognier, reisling, pinot noir and a variety of sweet whites.

Its selection of red wines includes cabernet franc, chambourcin and a very sweet red called Razzle that is made from cabernet franc and Norton grapes.

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Plenty of Trail Mix Damascus bills itself as Trail Town USA, so it makes sense that it hosts Appalachian Trail Days each summer.

The 2,160-mile Appalachian Trail runs from Georgia to Maine, and Damascus is roughly the halfway point. Damascus is also the only town that the trail passes through – the sidewalk on Main Street is part of the Appalachian Trail.

The town is home to two sporting goods stores, several bike shops and many bed & breakfasts. Damascus is also widely known as “the friendliest town on the trail.”

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ACTION! ADVENTURE! “IT KEPT ME ON THE EDGE OF MY LAPTOP!”

“WASHINGTON COUNTY LIKE IT’S NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE!”

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SPECIAL ENGAGEMENT ANY RESEMBLANCE TO PLACES, EVENTS OR QUALITY OF LIFE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY IS PURELY INTENTIONAL!

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BARTER THEATRE MARKS 75 YEARS OF REGIONAL THEATRICAL EXCELLENCE

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With a professional company of actors, support staff and artistic director, The Barter Theatre offers performances several steps above typical community theater. Left: Barter Stage II is located in a renovated 1829 church.

STORY BY JOE MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN McCORD

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or 75 years, the Barter Theatre has been an Abingdon institution – an institution with both a rich history and a bright future.

Begun as a kind of entertainment-for-food swap meet during the Depression, the aptly named Barter would accept cash or produce for admission. The first stage sat atop the town jail and there were plenty of naysayers, but founder Robert Porterfield was able to make a success of the theater.

That first year, the Barter Company cleared $4.35. (In a nod to its roots, the Barter accepts donations for area food banks in lieu of admission at least once a year.)

The Barter has featured the talents of actors who later became Hollywood and Broadway stars. Gregory Peck, Patricia Neal, Kevin Spacey and dozens of others have performed here.

The success of the Barter is tied to a commitment to setting the standard high in terms of actors and material. Today’s resident actors are paid professionals with impressive resumes, training and talent.

The Barter itself is worthy of the talent on its stage. The 507-seat theater, built in 1831 as a church and deeded to the WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

city in 1890, now is the hub of an eight-building campus that includes the Barter Theatre Stage II, an 1829 church building renovated to become a 167-seat venue. The Barter features authentic furnishings from the Empire Theatre in New York, a historic building that Porterfield was given one weekend to loot before its destruction.

“For the anniversary, we’re doing a bigger season than we’ve ever done before, a bigger spectrum of shows,” says Courtney Bledsoe, associate director of marketing. “We’re doing some new, big shows like “Beauty and the Beast,” and have brought back some favorites like “Keep on the Sunny Side,” the story of the original Carter Family, which has played to more audiences than any show we’ve ever done.”

The Barter continues to expand in every direction, including operating its own touring company, workshops and educational outreach programs. It’s also become justifiably famous for its annual Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights, which runs every August in tandem with the Virginia Highlands Festival.

Staying on top of the myriad of productions and ensuring I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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SEE VIDEO ONLINE | Take a virtual tour of The Barter at imageswashingtoncounty.com.

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excellence falls to Richard Rose, who is only the third artistic director in the Barter’s history. Rose, who is celebrating his 16th season with Barter, is a visionary who draws out the best from the actors, the venues and the community. In 2007, under his leadership, the Barter had a record-breaking season with more than 160,000 attending programs and performances.

“We work at a very fast pace,” Rose says. “You have to have a really strong work ethic to survive at Barter. We demand perfection and we expect results. Everyone works very hard, but everyone has a voice. Our goal is to encourage everyone to succeed at their job and to be as supportive as possible of each other toward that success. In my working life, I have never been part of a group of people who are more compassionate toward one another than the people here at Barter.”

Going forward, Rose says he’d love to augment the Barter’s acting company and become even more diverse in programming, which might happen if a third theater is added to the complex as downtown Abingdon continues to grow and develop.

As things stand now, however, the Barter doesn’t lack for fans. One is Priscilla Hall, a longtime season subscriber.

“I love live drama, and the Barter is so professional and so very versatile,” says Hall, who also attends backstage tours, panel discussions and special events.

“Richard Rose is so good at getting every ounce of talent out of the people who work for him,” she says. “It’s a beautiful place, and Stage II is so wonderful for those intense, innovative plays. I just like everything about the theater.”

Barter Stage II is a perfect venue for innovative live theater such as The Road Where It Curves Away.

Left: The main theater offers seating for more than 500.

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Talk of the

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Town ABINGDON A B I N G D O N CONTINUES CON N T I NU U E S TO TO EARN NATIONAL ACCOLADES E ARN N ATION NAL A CCO L A D E S

STORY BY KEVIN LITWIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN McCORD

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nd the winner is – Abingdon.

Again and again.

Abingdon was voted the American Dream Town for 2006 by American Dream Magazine, while USA Todayy recently tabbed Abingdon as one of the Best Art Towns in the country, and one of America’s Best Places to Retire.

But that’s not all. For the past 15 years, the American Bus Association has recognized the town’s Virginia Highlands Festival as one of the Top 100 Events to Visit in the United States. It is virtually unheard of for the American Bus Association to nominate any national event for even five years in a row, yet the festival and its highly rated arts and crafts show has been acknowledged for 15 years running.

So what is it about this Washington County, Va., town that makes it so attractive?

“Abingdon has managed to retain its small-town charm, while at the same time gradually growing and providing

Main Street in downtown Abingdon is lined with shops, restaurants and activities. Above: The Star Museum is the city’s newest attraction.

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SEE VIDEO ONLINE | See vintage Hollywood memorabilia inside the Star Museum. Visit imageswashingtoncounty.com.

Star Museum owner Robert Weisfeld has collected – and now displays – memorabilia from Hollywood legends such as Lucille Ball, Elvis Presley, Audrey Hepburn and Clint Eastwood, who autographed the helmet shown here.

the things to do that usually only much larger communities are able to provide,” says Gregory W. Kelly, town manager.

“I like to view Abingdon as a melting pot of arts and crafts, music, recreation and history.”

The town’s attractions include several old homes and buildings that are included in a 20-block historic district. There is also a Virginia Creeper Trail for hiking and biking that features some of the most spectacular scenery found anywhere in the country.

“Abingdon also offers an assortment of plays at our Barter Theatre throughout the year, and we have activities at the William King Regional Arts Center, The 14

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Arts Depot and The Cave House craft cooperative,” Kelly says. “And soon we will become the home of Heartwood, southwest Virginia’s regional arts center that is scheduled for construction in the near future on the campus of Virginia Highlands Community College.”

The town also recently added an Abingdon Market Pavilion that houses a farmer’s market while doubling as an outdoor venue for concerts.

“One of our newest attractions is the Star Museum, whose owner Robert Weisfeld has enjoyed a lifelong interest in collecting celebrity memorabilia,” says Myra D. Cook, director of tourism for the town of Abingdon. “Robert has pur-

chased hundreds of items at auction and on eBay, and now has a warehouse full of memorabilia. Things like Lucille Ball’s toothbrush, Elvis Presley’s favorite chair, Janis Joplin’s dress, Audrey Hepburn’s coat – there are so many items that Robert is able to rotate the displays often.”

Cook says visitors to Abingdon should also take a tour of Sinking Spring Cemetery, where many prominent and famous Virginians are buried.

“Tourism in Abingdon is growing all the time,” she says. “Now there is talk about adding a Main Street program in our downtown district, which will make our town even more attractive than it already is.”

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Scenery along The Virginia Creeper Trail includes a walking bridge, railroad tracks and train trestles.

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Hidden Memories Antiques and Art on Main Street in Abingdon

Hidden Memories Antiques and Art on Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia. PHOTO BY BRIAN M CORD C

PHOTO BY BRIAN M CCORD

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Weekend

Wander WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO TO SAMPLE AREA OFFERINGS

STORY BY CAROL COWAN

F

rom hiking or biking on miles of trails to relaxing in the serenity of a spa, from antique shopping along historic streets to dining in hip, trendy restaurants, and from browsing quiet galleries to watching dynamic performing arts, Washington County offers a wealth of ways to while away a weekend.

FRIDAY AFTERNOON Start your weekend with lunch at Alison’s on Main Street.

Savor the World Famous Baked Potato Soup or choose from meal-size salads, fish, ribs, hand-pulled barbecue or steak.

The deep-fried sweet potato chips are something special.

After lunch, take time to lose that workweek tension with a visit to The Spa at the Martha Washington Inn. Pick from a full menu of luxurious pampering services. Ahhhhh. Take the time to tour this beautiful building and surrounding grounds.

When You Go:

Now head downtown, where Abingdon’s antique shops and art galleries await you. Stroll down West Main Street and peruse the shops. You’ll find quality furniture, jewelry, clothing, collectibles, heirloom quilts and more.

Be sure to check out the Cave House Craft Shop for select pieces created by members of the Holston Mountain Arts and Crafts Cooperative, a 120-member group of local artisans.

FRIDAY EVENING Get a taste of history when you dine at a restaurant that has hosted such notable guests as Henry Clay and President Andrew Jackson. The Tavern, built in 1779, is Abingdon’s oldest building. Oh, and try the herb-encrusted breast of duck with raspberry sauce.

Then, for some Friday night entertainment, enjoy the nostalgic experience of catching a movie at the Moonlite

SEVERAL REALLY GOOD RESTAURANTS AWAIT YOU

ALISON’S ON MAIN STREET

THE TAVERN

THE HARVEST TABLE

The World Famous Baked Potato Soup highlights the menu, which includes everything from steak to seafood to Mexican-style cuisine.

Frenched rack of lamb, slowly grilled and topped with shitake mushroom, lavender and mint sauce. Features an excellent wine selection.

Serving only regional foods requires creativity with tasty menu items such as The Appalachian Taco and Chicken-Pig-n-Grits

628-8002 1220 W Main St.

628-1118 222 E Main St.

944-5142 13180 Meadowview Sq.

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A Bountiful Harvest CALLING ALL FOOD LOVERS, FARMERS AND FOOD ARTISANS!

ANTONY BOSHIER

T

The Virginia Creeper Trail offers a 17-mile scenic ride.

Drive-in, one of the few drive-in theaters left on the American landscape. If you prefer your movie indoors, the Cinemall offers plenty of choices.

SATURDAY MORNING Hope you got your rest, because a trip to this region wouldn’t be complete without a bike ride down the renowned Virginia Creeper Trail.

First, have breakfast at the Trails Café in Abingdon, and grab some trail mix for the ride. Then rent a bicycle from one of the many local outfitters, who will also transport you to the starting point at White Top. It’s all downhill from there – 17 miles of spectacular scenery riding along streams, across bridges and trestles.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON Stay in Damascus, and take that appetite you just worked up over to In the Country – a combination bakery, eatery, ice cream shoppe and country store. Sample the famed chicken salad, but save room for a couple scoops of premium ice cream served in a just-baked waffle cone.

Spend the afternoon in Abingdon meandering through the Historic District where you’ll get a close look at various18thand 19th-century architectural styles.

Also, visit the working studios and exhibits showcasing local artists at the Arts Depot, and explore the William King Regional Arts Center and its museum-standard galleries featuring regional and world art.

he Meadowview Farmers Guild and its companion restaurant, the Harvest Table, buy only regional foods and products to serve in their dining room or sell in their General Store.

In the process, these businesses are boosting Meadowview’s economy, promoting the town as a tourism destination and making it easy for consumers to support the sustainable growing and distribution practices of area farmers.

It’s all part of a farm-to-table movement gaining momentum throughout the country. Earth-savvy consumers have started paying more attention to where the food they eat comes from and demanding foods grown in their own communities.

Proprietors of the Harvest Table Restaurant are proud of the delicious foods grown and produced in southwestern Virginia, and they want their patrons to have access to them.

Grass-fed beef, beautiful organic produce, native trout and artisan cheeses represent the range of fresh ingredients that Chefs Richard Houser and Philip Newton turn into tantalizing menu items such as Rich Valley Ribeye Steak with garlic and peppercorn butter, lump crab stuffed Blue Ridge Trout or Four-cheese Quiche with pecans and chard featuring Kentucky artisan cheeses.

According to Lee Rasnake, store manager, Harvest Table serves numerous regulars, in addition to a steady stream of tourists.

“The response has been enthusiastic,” she says.

“We’ve been growing steadily, and we’re looking forward to a very busy spring and summer.

“Farmers are catching on too,” Rasnake adds.

“It seems like every day we have farmers who ask if they can grow [produce] for us. We tell them to have at it.”

Harvest Table is open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner.

– Carol Cowan

Basil chicken salad with a bowl of baked potato soup is served at Alison’s on Main Street. PHOTO BY BRIAN M CORD C

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BRIAN M C CORD

SATURDAY EVENING Tonight, drive to Meadowview and dine at The Harvest Table, an eco-friendly restaurant that serves only locally grown foods. (See sidebar.)

Finally, add the last dramatic flourish to a super weekend by attending a live performance at the acclaimed Barter Theatre, one of the nation’s oldest professional theaters and a must-see for visitors to Washington County.

The Harvest Table serves locally grown food.

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Business

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Shopping Is

Hopping

THE HIGHLANDS MAKES WASHINGTON COUNTY A SHOPPING DESTINATION

STORY BY KEVIN LITWIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN McCORD

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t is one of the largest shopping centers between Roanoke, Va., and Knoxville, Tenn., and 80,000 households live within 10 minutes of the new mall. Plus it is conveniently located along Interstate 81 at exit 7.

The Highlands opened in 2007 as a retail destination where residents of southwest Virginia and beyond can shop at several big-name stores. The open-air complex is home to retail giants such as Target, Old Navy, Bed Bath & Beyond, Books-A-Million, PetSmart, T.J. Maxx and Ross Dress for Less.

And in April 2008, the tenant mix further expanded with the addition of Best Buy, Dressbarn and Maurices.

“The Highlands has already been a success because store sale volumes have been robust by any standards,” says Mark McDonald of Newton Oldacre McDonald, developer of The Highlands mall project. “The site is ideal because it is located in what was a vastly underserved retail market.”

McDonald says the demographics of Washington County and the surrounding area are perfect for a center such as The Highlands.

“Of the nearly 80,000 people who live within 10 miles of the site, their average age is only 42, and 67 percent own their own homes,” he says. “That spells opportunity when you consider the fact that not many national retailers had stores in this market until The Highlands opened for business.”

Besides the retail attractions, the mall will ultimately result in the creation of 600 new jobs. In addition, sales tax revenue from the retail site will be significant each year for Washington County’s coffers.

“Brand names, upscale merchandise and plenty of selection,” McDonald says.

“The Highlands has already become a shopping experience, not just a shopping trip.”

Christy Parker agrees. The director of economic development for Washington County says “the Target factor” at The

Highlands has already been a boost to the community for several reasons.

“When it comes to recruiting new businesses or professionals to our community, it is extremely important to show that Washington County has a strong diversity of retail offerings,” Parker says. “Honestly, prior to the arrival of The Highlands, we were hearing that the spouses of corporate clients who were thinking of relocating here had a problem moving to a community without a Target.

We were initially surprised to hear this, but then we began to hear it quite often.”

Parker says that on a nationwide basis, Target seems to choose the most attractive and vibrant communities to locate their stores – thus, the Target factor.

“Now whenever we provide a tour of Washington County for business and industry prospects who are thinking of locating here, we always include a trip to exit 7,” she says. “The Highlands shows corporate leaders what we have to offer in commercial development.”

Major retailers in The Highlands commercial development draw customers from throughout southwest Virginia.

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Business | Biz Briefs

PHOTOS BY BRIAN M C CORD

aspiring entrepreneurs.

“I call it economic development in a box,” says director Jason Berry.

In this case, the “box” is a nearly 30,000-square-foot facility that houses the staffs of a variety of professionals, all of whom have access to subsidized rent, management guidance, an in-house secretary, planning and financing assistance.

The access to these resources reduces overhead while increasing the chances of success for the business.

“In the small business world, cash is king,” Berry says. “If you have a low overhead, you are more likely to be successful.”

A special board that reviews the business plan and assets of a potential renter determines membership in the business incubator. The process isn’t that different from obtaining a bank loan, according to Berry.

The goal is to graduate the business from the facility within three years.

Family-owned Kiser Furniture Co. provides personalized customer service.

SERVICE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH Adjacent to the historical district of Abingdon, Kiser Furniture represents a dying breed in the furniture business: the downtown, mom-and-pop furniture store.

Lonnie and Lillian Kiser opened the store 50 years ago. Their five sons joined the business and helped Kiser Furniture establish its reputation of providing personalized service.

Today, the business offers free custom design services through an in-house interior designer. Recently, Kiser integrated software to help customers visualize how their new furnished rooms will look.

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“Our customer service has really kept us in the game,” explains Gary Kiser, one of several Kisers who still works in the store daily. “Over half of our business is custom orders.”

Kiser, which has 45,000 square feet of floor space, caters to a range of customers, from couples buying their first living room suite to lawyers looking to revamp the look of their offices.

INCUBATING BUSINESS Jumpstarting your business can be risky. Fortunately, Washington County residents have a solution in the Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator, a company whose goal is to prop up

EMPLOYEES ARE KEY Julie Finney started Jack Rabbit Printing in 1983, long before the technology boom would change the way we think about graphic design.

But according to Finney, the employees set her business apart, even more than the ability to evolve her printing services with technology.

“I have almost zero turnover in my business,” she explains. “I have people who have been here for over 20 years.”

That commitment translates into a brand of customer service rarely seen in the printing business. When a customer walks into Jack Rabbit Printing, no matter the size of the project, they are assured that someone with experience will guide them through each step of the printing process.

“We can take your idea and make it go all the way,” says Finney.

The company offers a range of printing services, from business cards to catalogs.

Business services such as faxing and notary services also come in handy for small business printing projects.

A DELI WITH A TWIST The Dunkin Deli is a throwback to small-town diners, the kind of place where everybody knows your name.

“When you walk in at lunch, you see people going from table to table to greet each other,” says owner and founder Joe Whitehill.

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While the deli’s atmosphere calls to mind the classic small town café, the menu is anything but traditional.

Whitehill didn’t want to create the standard burger-and-fries lunch. Instead, he has fused together two very different concepts: Doughnuts and deli sandwiches.

The deli serves a variety of all the classic doughnut flavors, from classic glazed to apple fritters and cake doughnuts. The sandwiches are a bit more unusual. The deli offers a range of lunch items, including Dunkin Deli’s baked potato sandwiches. Rather than resting between two pieces of bread, the ingredients are stuffed inside of baked potato and melted in a toaster.

The Dunkin Deli attracts a lively lunch crowd of locals and a good mix of visitors to the area.

MANUFACTURING SUCCESS An international leader in the manufacturing industry chose Glade Springs in 2007 as home to its newest facility.

The Gates Company, which manufactures hydraulic assembly units for the majority of the world’s car companies, brought with it a host of employment opportunities to Washington County.

By the end of 2007, the company had created 50 new jobs, with more than 100 more planned over the next three years.

The nearly 100-year-old company has long held the title as the world’s largest manufacturer of rubber and fabric V-belts, products that were invented by John Gates, brother of the company’s founder, Charles Gates.

Today, from Glade Springs to South America, Gates has a presence in all of the world’s major markets. Tomkins, a global engineering and manufacturing group, owns the Gates Company, which is one of its 33 United States factories.

– Brandon Lowe

Dunkin Deli serves doughnuts and breakfast fare, as well as a café-style menu with a flair.

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BRIAN M C CORD

Business | Chamber Report

Volunteers Jason Berry, right, and Bruce Kravitz help Abingdon students develop interview skills.

Soft Skills Drive a Hard Bargain PROGRAM HELPS HIGH SCHOOLERS PREPARE FOR SUCCESS IN THE JOB MARKET

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ashington County Chamber of Commerce members agree that prospective employees have a much better chance of getting a job if they come prepared with certain basic skills. At the same time, members have noticed a significant gap in these skills among young people just entering the job market.

So, thanks to a grant from the Workforce Investment Board and a cooperative effort by the Washington County Chamber and Junior Achievement of the Tri-Cities Tennessee/Virginia, the new Junior Achievement Success Skills program has been brought into all four Washington County high schools.

“Success Skills is a brand new program started in the fall of 2007,” says Sherry Tysinger, program manager, JA of the Tri-Cities Tenn./Va. “Students are taught skills such as how to look for a job, how to fill out a job application, what to do at an interview, problem-solving, teambuilding and public speaking.”

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Volunteers from the community teach these “soft skills” and work-readiness concepts in a series of seven sessions. So far, everyone involved is pleased with the results.

“The seven sessions were made available in the senior government class, because all the seniors are required to take government,” says Suzanne Lay, executive vice president of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. “I think it’s going great. We’ve had about 50 volunteers – some from the power company, a couple of manufacturers, some from our Leadership Washington County group, some banks and the hospital. A number of volunteers are on the chamber’s board of directors. It’s really a community-wide effort, and we’ve been very pleased.”

Ron Dickenson, a member of the Workforce Investment Board, the Washington County Chamber and a vice president at Highlands Union Bank, agrees, “The need is huge.” So, he volunteers.

“I taught a session on teamwork at Patrick Henry High School, and [the students] picked it right up,” Dickenson says. “I’ve had a lot of fun with it. I talked about (author and success guru) Napoleon Hill, and the kids got excited about that because he’s from around here. By and large, what I’ve heard from everyone involved is that they are glad to be a part of it.”

And that goes for the students as well.

“We do mock interviews – that’s one of the students’ favorite activities,” Tysinger says. “We’ll show an example of a really bad interview – maybe someone goes in dressed inappropriately, or takes a call on their cell phone in the middle of the interview. The kids are always laughing by the time it’s over.

Then we show a good one, and we give the kids a chance to practice.”

At the end of the program, students receive a Success Skills CD with information about careers and tips for getting into the job market.

– Carol Cowan WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

Business | Economic Profile

WASHINGTON COUNTY BUSINESS CLIMATE Agriculture, manufacturing and tourism-related businesses are the main economic contributors to Washington County. The big crops are tobacco, corn, alfalfa, livestock, poultry and dairy products.

The area is also a major manufacturer of crushed rock, fabricated metal products, machinery, consumer goods and food.

HOUSEHOLDS Median household income $32,742 Median house value, $90,400 Number of households (owners) 21,056 (renters) 4,801

CLASS OF WORKER Private wage and salary workers 18,963, 79.7% Government workers 3,034, 12.7% Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business 1,678, 7% Unpaid family workers 128, 0.5%

TRANSPORTATION Airports Tri-Cities Regional Airport (423) 325-6000 Virginia Highlands Airport 628-6030

Highways Interstate 81 runs through the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central valley and intersects with Interstate 77, 55 miles northeast of Abingdon.

U.S. 11, 19 and 58 Virginia 75, 80 and 91 Ports Port of Hampton Roads is 397 miles east of Abingdon.

Inland container port at Front Royal, Va., is 223 miles northeast of Abingdon.

Railroad A Norfolk Southern mainline runs through Washington County.

Bank of America Abingdon, 676-5067 Bank of America Glade Spring, 429-5116 Carter Bank Abingdon, 676-3280 Carter Bank 27255 Lee Hwy., Abingdon 628-9147 First Bank and Trust 933 E. Main St., Abingdon, 628-3838 First Bank and Trust 667 W. Main St., Abingdon, 628-9558 First Bank of Virginia Abingdon, 628-7376

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS The Bank of Glade Spring Glade Spring, 429-5141

Grundy National Bank Abingdon, 623-9013 Highlands Union Bank 164 Old Jonesboro Road, Abingdon, 628-3933

The Bank of Damascus Damascus, 475-3204 BB&T Abingdon, 739-7950 BB&T Damascus, 475-3112

MAJOR EMPLOYERS Company

BB&T Meadowview 944-3129

Employees

Highlands Union Bank 340 W. Main St., Abingdon, 628-9181 Highlands Union Bank 24412 Maringo Road, Abingdon, 628-6300

Bristol Compressors

1,000+

Food City/K-VA-T Food Stores Inc.

1,000+

Highlands Union Bank Glade Spring, 429-3000

Washington County Schools

1,000+

Lee Bank Abingdon, 698-3131

Johnston Memorial Hospital

500-999

Wal-Mart

500-999

Emory & Henry College

250-499

People Inc.

250-499

Virginia Highlands Community College

250-499

Washington County

250-499

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National Bank Abingdon, 628-9131 New Peoples Bank Abingdon, 628-2543 Tru Point Abingdon 623-0787 Wachovia Abingdon 676-5310

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Sleep at home tonight and plan to wake up in America’s Dream Town real soon

• Begin by visiting Main Street’s Historic District Area and take a walking tour of Sinking Spring Cemetery and the Parson Cummings Cabin, view the blocks of historic homes • Stop at local restaurants to taste some of the wonderful food, coffee and special drinks • Browse Main Street’s Antique Block to find just the thing to take home to remind you of your visit to Abingdon • Tour the many museums that can interest you in everything from famous stars to history and the arts • Enjoy a wonderful play at The Barter Theatre And to end a perfect day, check into one of the many historic bed and breakfasts or hotels that Abingdon offers

For more information, contact the Abingdon Convention and Visitors Bureau at acvb@abingdon.com, www.abingdon.com or (800) 435-3440

TAXES Fiscal Year 2005-2006 Machinery and Tools (per $100 of valuation) Washington County, $1.55 Abingdon, $.55 Damascus, $.54 Glade Spring, $.17 Motor Vehicles (per $100 of NADA loan value) Washington County, $1.55 Abingdon, $.55 Damascus, $.54 Glade Spring, $.17 Property Tax (per $100 of fair market value) Washington County, $.57 Abingdon, $.32 Damascus, $.54 Glade Spring, $.17 Sales Tax 4.5% state sales tax and 1% local sales tax

DISTANCE TO MAJOR CITIES

City

Miles

Atlanta

330

Baltimore

403

Charleston, S.C.

400

Charleston, W.Va.

175

Charlotte

150

Chattanooga, Tenn.

248

Cincinnati

350

Columbia, S.C.

288

Greensboro

172

Knoxville, Tenn.

132

Lexington, Ky.

265

Louisville, Ky.

332

Nashville, Tenn.

320

Norfolk, Va.

399

Pittsburgh

398

Raleigh/Durham Richmond, Va.

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221 308

Roanoke, Va.

132

Washington

375

Winston-Salem

143

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DEMOGRAPHICS 2000 CENSUS 51,103 residents 21,056 households 22,985 housing units Average household size: 2.3 Age of residents: 20.8% age 18 and younger 8.7% age 18-24 28.3% age 25-34 26.9% age 45-64 15.3% age 65 and older

FOR MORE INFORMATION Washington County Chamber of Commerce 179 E. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 Phone: 628-8141 www.washingtonvachamber.org Washington County Department of Community & Economic Development Washington County Administration Building 205 Academy Drive Abingdon, VA 24210 Phone: 676-6202 www.washcova.com

Farris Funeral Service Farris Cremation & Funeral Center Forest Hills Memory Gardens Faithful Pets Cremation & Burial Care Compassionate care, creative service options • Gathering room with catering facilities • Unique memorialization choices • Complete cremation services • Burial, entombment, scattering garden • Separate facility for companion pet cremation or burial

Abingdon, VA Sources: www.washingtonvachamber.org, www.washcova.com, www.mrpdc.org, www.vec.state.va.us, www.census.gov

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(276) 623-2700 www.farrisfuneralservice.com Services for remembrance and healing

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Image Gallery

Abingdon Home

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St. Thomas Episcopal Church

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Image Gallery

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN McCORD

White’s Mill

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Portfolio

Genealogical and historical records are accessible for review and research in Washington County.

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Tapping Into Family History HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF WASHINGTON COUNTY HAS EXTENSIVE GENEALOGY FILES

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nowing who’s related to whom can be a complicated business in the South, but for those wanting to unsnarl the branches of the family tree, the Historical Society of Washington County stands ready to help.

Located in the Old Abingdon Train Station, the society contains an ever-growing collection of local and regional genealogies and family histories. It has members in most states and a few foreign countries, many of whom make regular trips to pore over family records and other artifacts in the collection.

“To a large extent, we’ve become the Mecca in this section of the world for genealogy research,” says Charles W. Seaver, president. “We have about 1,000 people a year come in to look up records not just for families, but also events that occurred in the area, or information on a house or property.”

The society works closely with the clerk’s office, which is the repository of city and county official records, but it also

has developed a database with more than 1 million entries.

Included are census records for Washington County, cemetery records, marriage records, more than 1,000 family genealogical files and books. There’s also historical information on Abingdon, southwest Virginia and listings of more than 5,500 index cards kept by Gordon Aronheim, one of the early settlers of southwest Virginia and northeast Tennessee.

“We’ve accumulated that information over a number of years,” Seaver says. “We’re now in the process of scanning and capturing thousands of pictures, people and places and events in Washington County. We’ll soon have those available and accessible on the same search engine that’s available now to look up genealogical records.”

The society welcomes donations of family books, or copies of genealogical information, but it must pertain to Washington County or southwest Virginia. The society is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In addition to offering access to records, The Historical Society of Washington County also exhibits historical artifacts.

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Portfolio Bryan Wolfe fishes for trout in Whitetop Laurel Creek in Damascus.

Top Streams Are Lure For Fly Fishermen

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BRIAN M C CORD

nglers of all types f lock to Washington County and the surrounding region for year-round fishing, but from early spring through late summer, the focus is on fly-fishing.

That’s in no small measure due to an embarrassment of riches in terms of streams, rivers, head and tail waters where fishers can find brook, brown and rainbow trout, as well as a wide variety of other finned denizens.

“They come in from all over, because we’re a destination location,” says Bruce Wankel, owner of the Virginia Creeper Fly Shop. Wankel, in business since 1994, does a steady business as a guide to anglers from all over, and says that the area’s wide variety of aquatic bodies is the key to its popularity.

“If you’ve got a three-day weekend, you can go up on top of a mountain and fish a stream in the springtime, then on the second day fish a larger, secondorder stream and then on that third day you may be down in the tail waters,” he says.

The happy combination of trout and fly-fishing come together at Whitetop Laurel Creek, perhaps the area’s bestknown spot for the sport.

“From late March through most of June, that’s prime time for Whitetop and our mountain streams,” Wankel says. “Everybody’s God’s gift to flyfishing then, because they do so well.

That’s why they come from around the state, and from other states.”

In addition to Whitetop, anglers flock to Taylor’s Valley, Big Tumbling Creek, Hidden Valley and Green Cove, as well as many spots along the Holston River.

Small wonder that the area looms large on fishing fans’ calendars, but that’s only part of the allure.

“It brings a special kind of peace and serenity,” Wankel says of the sport.

“It’s good outdoor activity, and revitalizes the individual’s body and soul.”

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Portfolio

Kingsolver Returns to Her Roots W

ith titles like The Poisonwood Bible, Animal Dreams and Pigs In Heaven, famed author Barbara Kingsolver has touched on a wide variety of social issues. But it was her return to her roots in southern Appalachia that prompted her latest bestseller, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life.

The book chronicles Kingsolver’s relocation to Washington County from Arizona, and the decision she and her family made to “eat deliberately,” consuming only foodstuffs grown locally or by themselves. But while a return to her roots may have prompted a family literary effort, the original goal was to be close to her family.

“Even as a writer of fiction and a manipulator of the fates for my characters, I never imagined in 1993 that becoming a visiting author at Emory & Henry College for two weeks would change everything in my life,” Kingsolver says. “Well, maybe the fates were going to show me.”

Kingsolver had won a Lila Wallace Fellowship to do a residency, and requested Southern Appalachia, mostly so her parents could take care of her then 5-year-old daughter in their Kentucky home. She knew she was going to Abingdon, and that was about it. Then came the guest lectures, one of which was for a certain professor, Steven Hopp, whom she would eventually marry.

“You could say that our book, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, grew right out of this ongoing story,” she says.

Hopp owned the Washington County farmhouse where the family settled permanently in 2004. Once on the ground, it didn’t take long for Kingsolver to find out that she had much more

extensive local connections than she originally thought.

“When I gave my first reading in Bristol, the whole front row was occupied by lovely elderly women who identified themselves as my relatives,” Kingsolver says. “Imagine my surprise! ‘Oh yes,’ they said, ‘It used to be, you couldn’t walk around here without stepping on a Kingsolver.’ My grandfather’s family came from here. One of my great uncles used to be the town doctor in Abingdon.

It’s wonderful to call this place home now. On Memorial Day we cut peonies from our backyard and take them down to our ancestors’ graves in the cemetery, and that feels like the way things ought to be.”

Check out the Mule Museum, the actual site of the Scopes “Monkey Trial” and the nation’s first monument.

Sit in the world’s largest chair, get a taste for ginseng and wash with boll weevils.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVEN L. HOPP

Chow down on Baltimore’s best crab cakes and West Tennessee barbecue, or sip coffee in a London double-decker bus.

Novelist Barbara Kingsolver’s memoir, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, was written from her Washington County farm.

© 2008 Journal Communications Inc.

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Portfolio Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center plans R&D expansion.

A Hallmark of Service

IAN CURCIO

A

Unspoiled. Uncrowded.

The Virginian ... a place where man and nature combine to create a setting so unique, it’s not what has been built, but rather what hasn’t.

Only 250 homesites strategically placed among 538 acres of rolling hills, unspoiled woodlands and meadows carpeted by wild flowers. The Virginian takes pride in its respect for civility and quality of life.

A quality of life that is enriched by a Tom Fazio-designed golf course so masterful that the course and community rate as “one of the best places in America to live.” Enough said.

Conveniently located off of exit 10 on Interstate 81, between the historic towns of Abingdon and Bristol. Our gates are more a formality than a necessity.

Do yourself a favor. Visit The Virginian, and you’ll see what life can be when you’re surrounded by the beauty of nature and art and not people.

22512 Clubhouse Ridge • Bristol, Virginia 24202 Call (800) 452-8065, fax (276) 645-7055 or e-mail varealty@thevirginian.com www.thevirginian.com A private golf club community of 250 homesites on 538 acres of some of the most breathtaking highlands in North America. Homesites from $70,000 and custom homes from $300,000.

Void where prohibited by law, including New York and New Jersey.

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lmost 20 years ago, the state of Virginia wanted to do something about the lack of higher-education opportunities in the rural areas. In 1998, it opened the doors to the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, and the results have surpassed expectations.

“We knew going into this that we were going to be providing a service in a region that was underserved educationally,” says Rachel Fowlkes, executive director. “We knew there were wonderful universities in Virginia, and that by pooling together our resources we could create opportunities for people in rural areas. But never did we anticipate that we would become the model of how to deliver higher education in that setting.”

The center boasts a conference facility and auditorium, more than 25 classrooms, computer classrooms, a full complement of Internet access, a science lab and more. It has more than 60 graduate and undergraduate degree programs, and more than 1,000 students.

In addition to providing educational offerings, it’s the go-to site for local business and industry for meetings and staff development.

It’s that multi-use component of the center that has made it so successful in accomplishing its original mission and more. And a decade into its operation, there are plans to add a research and development center.

“It will be an applied center for university research, but also corporate and private research,” Fowlkes says.

“We’ll be focusing on coal and natural gas, which is a big deal in southwest Virginia. The research will focus on extracting it in a more environmentally safe way, and burning it cleaner and with more efficiency.”

The R&D facility will tie into the center’s ongoing workforce development efforts throughout the region, and the degree programs will also dovetail into the research being done at the site.

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Illustrator Draws on Imagination

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ince early childhood, artist Charles Vess has been creating unique beings and worlds for them to live in. These days, those worlds are seen far and wide in books, gallery exhibits and even on the big screen.

Vess created the artwork for Stardust, a novel by Neil Gaiman, which was adapted into a movie. But Stardust is just one of many projects that have made Vess a major name in the science fiction and fantasy art worlds.

The Lynchburg native and Virginia Commonwealth University graduate worked for years in commercial animation, before moving to Abingdon.

His work has been seen in publications ranging from Heavy Metal to National Lampoon, and he has penned art for comic book publishers Marvel, DC, Darkhorse and Epic.

A few of Vess’ other projects include a children’s picture book, A Circle of Cats, which was picking up awards before it was even published, and the cover and interior illustrations for a new edition of Peter Pan. For more information on Vess and his artwork, visit www.greenmanpress.com.

These days, his work is taking on more of a local flavor.

“I’ve been doing a lot of sculpture, and my wife and I are working on a prose novel,” Vess says. “It’s a young adult fantasy, and it’s set in Virginia.”

Regardless of the project, Vess says that he’s able to do it all from Abingdon, where he and his wife chose to settle after leaving New York.

“We were in Bristol for Christmas one year, and we came to Abingdon and just loved it,” he says. “I just love the people and the mountains. It doesn’t matter where I live at this point in my career, because I’m totally connected to publishers all over the world. People have the time to be friendly here, and the more I’ve been here, the more I realized it was the right thing to do.”

– Stories by Joe Morris

Abingdon

Accommodations/Features • Free Hot Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Free USA Today Newspaper • Outdoor Heated Pool • Refrigerator, Microwave and Coffee Maker

930 E. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 676-9090 Fax: (276) 676-9091

• Hair Dryer, Iron and Ironing Board • Wireless High-speed Internet • Whirlpool Suites Available

Toll-free: (877) 676-9090

• Business Center and Conference Room Available

Illustrator Charles Vess is best known for his work on the book and movie adaptation of Stardust.

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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Washington County Public Schools SACS CASI Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement

A Designated Quality School System Elementary Schools

Middle Schools

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Preschool Technology Integration Reading Specialist Low Pupil/Teacher Ratio Reading Recovery Fine Arts Guidance Counselors Gifted/Talented Education

Career and Technical Schools • • • • • • • • • • • •

Science/Technical Career Training Transition to Work 17 Career/Technical Programs Industry Certification Dual Enrollment Courses Accredited Post Secondary Technical School Allied Health Care Program Building Trade Program Science/Technology Training Competency Based Fast-Track Training Career Placement Assistance Financial Aid Resources

Integrated Curriculum Service Learning Advocacy Program Interdisciplinary Teams Middle School Concept Clubs Fine Arts Flexible Scheduling Gifted/Talented Education Differential Instruction Family/Community Partnership Junior Washington County Community Scholars

Secondary Schools • Multiple Diploma Options • Washington County Community Scholars • Dual Enrollment Courses • Advanced Placement Courses • Extensive Extra-Curricular Programs • Gifted/Talented Education • Fine Arts Program

812 Thompson Dr. • Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 739-3000 • Fax: (276) 628-1874 www.wcs.k12.va.us Dr. Alan T. Lee, Division Superintendent

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I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

Working to Provide the World’s Best Education

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

Arts & Culture

SEE MORE ONLINE | Peek inside the William King Regional Arts Center.

Visit imageswashingtoncounty.com.

Meditation cylinders by artist Arnold Schwarzbart are on display in the William King Regional Arts Center. PHOTO BY BRIAN M

CCORD

An Art Lover’s Buffet GALLERIES DISPLAY NATIONAL AND LOCAL ART AND SERVE AS TEACHING CENTERS

A

rt enthusiasts in Abingdon enjoy an array of artwork collections and crafts in the town that declares itself as having “Arts of Historic Proportion.”

Three art galleries are primarily responsible for creating this feast of creative expression: The William King Regional Arts Center, The Arts Depot and The Cave House Craft Shop.

The building the William King Regional Arts Center occupies dates to the 1820s, and the galleries inside showcase contemporary exhibitions that represent regional and world artists, historical works and the cultural heritage collection that emphasizes artists from southwest Virginia and northwest Tennessee.

“We are never the same museum because we are constantly changing exhibitions, and since we are the only facility in this area that can do this, we showcase around 800 pieces every year,” says executive director Betsy White. “We are classified as a high-security museum; therefore we can borrow almost anything from around the world.”

The center not only displays art but is also a teaching center of the arts to adults and children. Classes in visual and performing arts make the center more than the average art gallery, and plans of expansion continue to guarantee this progression of artistic education.

“Our expansion plans address the 25 acres of properties

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

that the center resides on,” White says. “We are hoping to create public cultural campuses for growth in adult education for high-school students, college and senior citizens as we act as a magnet for visitors to the community.”

The Arts Depot and The Cave House Craft Shop cater to local artists who live within 50 miles of Abingdon. Both galleries introduce visitors to different artistic styles.

The Arts Depot is a smaller gallery, open since 1991, where visitors are treated to an interesting, personal experience.

“We have seven studios where the artists work while people visit and talk with them,” says administrator Bob Cassell. “We show and sell pieces such as pottery, jewelry, paintings and weavings, but all work on display has to be original.”

This gallery also offers classes, workshops, scholarship opportunities and hosts special events.

The Cave House Craft Shop, located in a Victorian landmark, is home to the Holsten Mountain Arts and Crafts Cooperative, a group of mountain-inspired artisans who focus on traditional methods in creating their works.

The juried shop proves that contemporary and traditional ideas can co-exist for the enjoyment and inspiration of art enthusiasts. On display are crafted gourds, baskets, quilts, pottery, jewelry and more – all representing regional culture.

– Raven Petty I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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For All Your Real Estate Needs REALTOR SINCE 1983 John & Beth Mahaffey

Celebrating Our 25th Year

Residential • Commercial • Land • Farm • Appraisals

DON’T MAKE A MOVE WITHOUT US!!

103 W. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 628-5003 Fax: (276) 628-6007 E-mail: mahaffey@eva.org VIEW ALL OUR LISTINGS ON THE INTERNET www.themahaffeyagency.com

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I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

Education

There’s No Place Like Home EMORY & HENRY AND VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS ARE EXCELLENT COLLEGE OPTIONS

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

college that offers numerous programs for students who will ultimately transfer to a four-year institution.

“We also offer occupational technical programs for students who will attend VHCC for two years, then will go directly into the workplace with an associate of applied science degree,” Dunham says.

Dunham adds that VHCC is also involved with more than 30 four-year institutions as part of a Guaranteed Admissions Program, which helps VHCC students when it comes time for their transfer process to a four-year college.

“For example, if a student wants to transfer to, say, Virginia Tech, and has earned a 3.4 grade point average at VHCC, that student is guaranteed admission to Virginia Tech with that GPA and will enter there as a junior,” she says. “The student doesn’t have to back up and take any classes to meet any Virginia Tech criteria. That is an important perk because this scenario doesn’t happen for many students at other community colleges.

However, it happens for all graduates of Virginia Highlands Community College.”

– Kevin Litwin

IAN CURCIO

S

tudents, please take your seats.

Today’s lesson is: With top-notch colleges in Washington County, you don’t have to travel far for a great college education.

Washington County is home to Emory & Henry College as well as Virginia Highlands Community College. Both are conveniently located and offer reasonable tuition prices.

“Students might think that because Emory & Henry is a private liberal arts college, it carries a high sticker price – but that’s not true,” says Dirk Moore, director of public relations at E&H. “Compared to other liberal arts colleges in Virginia and Tennessee, and given the financial aid packages we offer, Emory & Henry is incredibly reasonable.”

Emory & Henry is a four-year college that was established 172 years ago, and its academic reputation attracts students from many states and several foreign countries.

“We offer a variety of curricula, and our science programs are among the strongest,” Moore says. “Many E&H science grads end up going to medical, veterinary or pharmacy graduate schools at some of the most prestigious schools in the nation, including Stanford, Berkley, Harvard and Yale.”

Moore says E&H is also known for its high-tech mass communications program, and its strong education program.

“Any principal would be proud to have an Emory & Henry graduate as a teacher in their school,” he says. “We are truly an asset to Washington County.”

The same holds true for Virginia Highlands Community College. The college that began holding classes in 1969 is located on a 100-acre campus situated along Interstate 81 at exit 14.

“Tuition here for our 3,200 students is about one-third the cost of attending a typical four-year institution,” says Anne Dunham, public relations and marketing specialist at VHCC. Virginia Highlands is a two-year

Emory & Henry College has an outstanding academic reputation.

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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8 0 0 . A C S . 2 3 4 5 / c a n c e r. o r g

W C S C

Washington County Skill Center Providing career training services for southwest Virginia and northeast Tennessee since 1939 TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: Diesel Truck Technician • Industrial Welding • CNC/Conventional Machining Dental Assistant • Medical Assistant • Administrative Support Specialist Financial Aid Available Including Pell Grant Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education Dream It! Do It! Training Partner

TOLL-FREE: (866) 676-1948

questions

answers

wcsc.wcs.k12.va.us

© 2002 American Cancer Society, Inc.

848 Thompson Dr. • Abingdon, VA 24210

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I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

BRIAN M C CORD

Sports & Recreation

The Barely Wet class, directed by Connie Stout, is one of many options at the Coomes Recreation Center.

Harry L. Would Be Proud FROM SWIMMING TO SEMINARS, COOMES CENTER AMENITIES DRAW 2,000 MEMBERS

T

he place still looks great – 15 years later.

It was in 1994 when the Town of Abingdon first opened its Harry L. Coomes Recreation Center, named for a former town council member who served in Abingdon government for 47 years. His continuous tenure for service is an all-time record for a government official in the state of Virginia.

So it seems appropriate that the Harry L. Coomes Recreation Center also has served Abingdon residents well – so well that the facility has grown its membership to more than 2,300 people.

“It was forward-thinking on the part of our leaders back in 1994 to build a facility such as this one, especially for a town whose population was only 7,000 people back then,” says Chris Johnson, director of parks and recreation for the Town of Abingdon. “Today, along with the 2,300 members, the center welcomes an additional 120,000 daily-fee visitors every year.”

Membership dues vary at the Coomes Center, with different fee packages available for individuals, families, college students, senior citizens and corporate clients. For non-members, there is a daily guest fee of $3.50 that allows patrons to access all of the amenities offered.

Those amenities include an indoor basketball court, an elevated indoor running track, 25-yard indoor pool, 50-meter Olympic-sized outdoor pool, a skate park and an outdoor play station for kids. There is also a weight/cardio room, meeting room, computer room and four outdoor tennis courts, and the

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

center recently added a 2/3-mile walking trail around the perimeter of the building.

“As for our programs, they run the gamut of fitness, wellness and fun,” Johnson says. “For example, we schedule water and land aerobic classes, and host sporting events such as mixed volleyball tournaments and 3-on-3 basketball competitions. In addition, we schedule monthly wellness luncheons for 50 people that feature top medical professionals speaking to the groups. And by the way, the Coomes Center is home to its own competitive swim team that is comprised of more than 60 kids.”

Johnson says the center is also an ideal place for senior citizens to keep in shape, with several specific programs targeted toward that age group. The programs include a walking club for ages 55 and older, and low-intensity arthritis water exercise classes.

“In addition, seniors can use the Coomes Center at a reduced cost on Tuesdays and Thursdays,” Johnson says. “We also began a monthly program in 2007 where seniors can enjoy a daytime bus trip that so far has included an excursion to the Chattanooga Aquarium and a day of shopping in Johnson City. The Coomes Center has an active staff that not only keeps the place looking great, but also running great with its many programs for the people of Abingdon and Washington County.”

– Kevin Litwin I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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Melvin L. Heiman, MD Carey W. McKain, MD Christy M. McGhee, MSN, FNP Justin M. Adams, MSN, FNP Timothy G. McGarry, M.D. Daniel L. Milam, D.O. Mark S. Clem, PA-C Matthew Sykes, ANP 300 E. Valley St. Abingdon, VA 24211 (276) 628-7600

613 Campus Dr., Ste. 200 P.O. Box 807 • Abingdon, VA 24212 Phone: (276) 628-5141 Fax: (276) 628-6889 abingdonortho.com www.abingdonortho.com From infancy through your senior years, we are with you every step of the way.

ABINGDON

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY, P.C.

Leticia I. Peltzer, M.D. 613 Campus Dr., Ste. 100 • Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 739-8000 • Fax: (276) 739-8005

44

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

Jay W. Lavigne, M.D. Melanie Leight, M.D. Christine Mellon, M.D. Richard Mellon, M.D. Beverly F. Wright, CFNP Maria M. Briscoe, CFNP Paula K. Wright, CFNP

(276) 628-4335 277 White St. • Abingdon, VA 24210

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

BRIAN M C CORD

Health & Wellness

Johnston Memorial Hospital is entering a partnership with Mountain State Health Alliance to build a new facility.

Care From the Ground Up NEW HOSPITAL IS LATEST EXPANSION EFFORT FOR JOHNSTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

N

ot content with opening new satellite centers for cancer treatment and urgent care, Johnston Memorial Hospital is about to go all the way with a new, $120 million facility.

Johnston Memorial announced its plans to build a new hospital at the same time it unveiled its new partnership with Mountain States Health Alliance, a managed health-care system based in Johnson City. The new hospital will

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

be a joint venture between the two entities, according to Sean McMurray, chief executive officer.

“We’re partnering with the region’s leading health system, which we think will have many benefits for the community in the future,” McMurray says.

“This was a big decision for us, but with so many uncertainties in the future of health care, we think it’s best to approach things with a partner. We believe that

Mountain States makes the best partner for us, and this partnership will secure the future of our hospital.”

Tying in with Mountain States also will make it easier for Johnston Memorial to replace its entire physical plant, building a new facility three miles from its current site in downtown Abingdon.

The new hospital will have 116 beds, roughly the same as the existing hospital, and also feature an enlarged emergency I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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Health & Wellness

Brown Dental Associates, P.C. General & Preventive Family Dentistry • Since 1974

Ronnie L. Brown, D.D.S. • Bob L. Brown, D.D.S. • Adult/Child Prophylaxis • Sealants • Periodontics (Treatment of Gum Disease) • Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Whitening • Porcelain Veneers Now Offering • Porcelain Crown/Bridges • Partials/Dentures INVISALIGN • Onlays/Inlays The “Clear” • Endodontics (Root Canals) Alternative to Braces • Implant Dentistry • Extractions New Patients Welcome • Nitrous Oxide Sedation We File Dental Insurance • Biteguards Monday-Friday • Sleep Apnea Appliances 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Intra Oral Camera

915 W. Main St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 • (276) 628-9507 • www.browndentalassociates.com

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I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

room, all private rooms and more. It will anchor a 60-acre campus, where Johnston Memorial currently has its new cancer center, off Interstate 81 and accessible by Lee Highway.

If all goes as planned, the new hospital should open in 2010, a date that can’t come soon enough for McMurray.

“It will be much more modern, much more efficient, with lots of improvements for the patient,” he says. “Access will be improved, we’ll have better parking, larger waiting rooms … it will just be easier all around for patients and their families to find their way, and it will help us to operate more efficiently. We’ll also be able to have medical office buildings adjacent to the hospital, which is something that we don’t have on this campus to speak of.”

“It [the new facility] will be much more modern, much more efficient ...”

You’re the reason we’re here.

Thank you.

You can tell we want your business.

233 Wyndale Rd. ABINGDON (276) 739-7950

202 W. Laurel Ave. DAMASCUS (276) 475-3112

13191 Glenbrook Ave. MEADOWVIEW (276) 944-3129

www.BBandT.com ©2003 BB&T. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender

SEAN McMURRAY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Considering that Johnston Memorial traces its roots back to 1905, and its current home was built in 1919, small wonder that a new building is in order.

But the new facility is only the latest expansion effort by the hospital, which opened a cancer center in 2007 on the land that will house the new hospital, and an urgent care center in January 2008 at “The Campus,” at Russell Road and Porterfield Highway, where the hospital has its outpatient surgical center.

Next up is a diabetes care center, set to open in summer 2008.

“The new hospital helps us improve our core services, but we still want to have convenient outpatient centers located where people need them,” McMurray says. “We’re busier than we’ve been in years – we are just booming. I think people are really excited about the direction we’re headed in.”

– Joe Morris WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

Radford University in Abingdon – it is accessible, convenient and affordable. Enrich your life and professional status with a class in one of RU’s rich selection of graduate programs in Abingdon.

Graduate Programs Counseling and Human Development School Counseling (K-12) Community Counseling Educational Leadership Social Work MSW Education/Information Technology

Certificate Programs Information Technology Need More Information?

Call (276) 619-4314 or e-mail gblankenship@swcenter.edu www.swcenter.edu/ru

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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Community Profile

WASHINGTON COUNTY SNAPSHOT Washington County is renowned for its cultural and historical significance. The town features a 20-block historic district that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is home of the world-famous Barter Theatre, The State Theatre of Virginia.

EDUCATION Washington County Public Schools, 739-3000

Colleges and Universities East Tennessee State University, (423) 439-1000

NUMBERS TO KNOW

Elementary Schools

Emory & Henry College 944-4121

Abingdon Elementary School

King College, (423) 968-1187

739-3400

Old Dominion University (757) 683-3000

Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s License/ License Plates

Greendale Elementary School 739-3500 High Point Elementary School 642-5600 Meadowview Elementary School, 739-3900 Rhea Valley Elementary School, 739-4200 Valley Institute Elementary School, 642-5500

Radford University (540) 831-5000 Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center 619-4300 Virginia Highlands Community College 739-2400, (877) 207-6115 Virginia Intermont College (800) 451-1VIC Virginia Tech, (540) 231-6000

Watauga Elementary School 739-3600 Middle Schools Damascus Middle School 739-4100 E.B. Stanley Middle School

UTILITIES

William N. Neff Center 739-3100

Cable

MEDIA

642-5400

Bristol Herald-Courier (daily) 628-6632

High Schools

The Business Journal (monthly), (423) 323-7111

Comcast (800) 464-9738 Electricity Appalachian Power (800) 957-4237 Bristol (Va.) Utility Board 669-4112 Natural Gas

The Roanoke Times (daily) (800) 346-1234

Atmos Energy (888) 824-3434

Washington County News (weekly), 628-7101

Telephone

Television Stations

Water

Patrick Henry High School

Blue Ridge Public Television (540) 344-0991

739-3700

WCYB TV-5, 645-1555

Washington County Service Authority 628-7151

739-3200 Holston High School 739-4000 John S. Battle High School 642-5300

48

Washington County Public Library 676-6222

Washington County Technical School, 739-3140

Newspapers

Abingdon High School

Voter Registration 676-6227

Washington County Skill Center, 676-1948

739-3800 Wallace Middle School

Emergency 911

Washington County Health Department 676-5604

Technical Schools

739-3300 Glade Spring Middle School

New residents must apply for a driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license and license plates within 30 days of establishing residence in Virginia at the Division of Motor Vehicles, (866) 368-5463.

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

Embarq, (800) 723-8010

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

CLIMATE Avg. January temperature 30.5 F Avg. July temperature, 73 F Avg. annual rainfall, 45 inches Avg. annual snowfall, 15 inches

MEDICAL FACILITIES Johnston Memorial Hospital Abingdon, 676-7000 Wellmont-Bristol Regional Hospital Bristol, (423) 844-1121

ATTRACTIONS Abingdon Cinemall 623-2121 Abingdon Farmer’s Market (operates April through November), 676-2282 Abingdon Historic District, 676-2282 Abingdon Vineyard & Winery, 623-1255 Appalachian Trail (304) 535-6278 The Arts Depot 628-9091 Barter Theatre 628-3991 Bristol International Raceway, (423) 989-6933 Camberley’s Martha Washington Inn, 628-3161 Cave House Crafts Shop, 628-7721 Fields Penn 1860 House Museum, 676-0216, (800) 435-3440 The Friendship Path 475-5054, 475-3682 George Washington & Jefferson National Forests (540) 265-5100 Grayson Highlands State Park 579-7092 Harry L. Coomes Recreation Center, 623-5266

T h e a r e a c o d e f o r Wa s h i n g t o n C o u n t y i s 2 7 6 .

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

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Community Profile Hidden Valley Lake 783-4860 Historic Homes of Abingdon, 676-2282, (800) 435-3440 Historical Society of Washington County 623-8337 Moonlight Drive-In Theatre 628-7881 O. Winston Link Railroad Photography Exhibit 623-8337 Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, 783-5196, (800) 628-7202 Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail’s Commemorative Motor Route, 676-2282, (800) 435-3440 South Holston Lake 676-2282, (800) 435-3440 Veteran’s Memorial Park 676-2282 Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail 676-2282, (800) 435-3440 Virginia Heritage Music Trail, 676-2282, (800) 435-3440 White’s Mill 628-2960 William King Regional Arts Center, 628-5005

PUBLIC SAFETY Law Enforcement Abingdon Police Department 628-3111 Damascus Police Department 475-3341 Glade Spring Police Department 429-5134 Washington County Sheriff’s Office 676-6000

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I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

FIRE PROTECTION Fire protection services within Washington County and the towns of Abingdon, Damascus and Glade Spring are provided by nine independent volunteer fire departments.

E-911 SYSTEM An enhanced 911 emergency telecommunication system

WE UNDERSTAND

COMMITMENT.

For decades, Edward Jones has been committed to providing personalized investment service to individuals.

• Face-to-face service

serves Washington County

• Timely information

and the towns of Abingdon,

• Quality investment selection

Damascus and Glade Spring.

The system is operated by

Call or stop by today.

the Washington County

Williams L. Smith Financial Advisor

Sheriff’s Office – Central Dispatch and maintained by the County Department of Transportation.

293 W. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 628-5327 Toll-free: (877) 628-5327 www.edwardjones.com

Member SPIC

RECREATION Harry L. Coomes Recreation Center 300 Stanley St. Abingdon 623-5279 Washington County

ABINGDON, VIRGINIA

Recreation Department Abingdon

Amenities

525-1385

Complimentary Deluxe Continental Breakfast

205 Academy Dr.

Meeting Room Accommodating 15 People

GARBAGE PICKUP

Free Local Calls Smoke-free Location

Abingdon

Complimentary USA Today

628-6611

Outdoor Pool

Damascus 475-3831

You’ll Be Satisfied.

Glade Spring

Electric Door Locks on Guest Rooms

Washington County Waste Management (423) 323-7143

Jacuzzi Rooms Available 100% Satisfaction Guarantee High-speed Wireless Internet

BFI (800) 551-3747

Reservations:

RECYCLING

SM

We Guar antee It. Recycling Coordinator 676-6216

T h e a r e a c o d e f o r Wa s h i n g t o n C o u n t y i s 2 7 6 .

In-room Coffee Makers In-room Microwaves and Fridges

429-5134

Washington County

Free Cable with HBO

(800) 426-7866 Present this ad to receive $5 off room rate.

340 Commerce Dr. • Abingdon, VA 24210 • (276) 619-4600 • (276) 619-4605 Fax

WWW.HAMPTON.COM

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

51

Community Profile TOWNS IN WASHINGTON COUNTY Town of Abingdon (800) 435-3440 www.abingdon.com Town of Damascus 475-3831 www.damascus.org Town of Glade Spring 429-5134

GOLF

Experience Serenity Here This is possibly the finest bed and breakfast in Virginia, furnished in elegant antiques and collectibles. Located on four landscaped acres one block from the historical district, it lends itself to weddings and special occasions. Ask about our corporate accommodations.

DR. ROGER & LINDA NEAL, INNKEEPERS 445 E. Valley St. • P.O. Box 1745 • Abingdon, VA 24212 (276) 628-4560 or (276) 608-4329 E-mail: lindagneal@gmail.com • www.innontowncreek.com

Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sat. 12 p.m.-9 p.m.

Glenrochie Country Club (Private) Exit #17 I-81 Abingdon, VA 24210 628-3572 Clear Creek Golf Club 732 Harleywood Bristol, VA 466-4833 Deer Field Golf Course 33517 Golfer’s Dr Damascus, VA 475-5649 Greenway Creek Golf Course 36012 Lee Hwy Glade Spring 429-2626 The Virginian Golf Club (Private) 22512 Clubhouse Ridge Bristol, VA 24202 645-7050 www.thevirginian.com

FISHING

Innovative cuisine in a casual atmosphere Handcut Steaks • Pasta Fresh Seafood • Chicken • Pork Daily Chef’s Features 967 W. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 623-0530 www.thepeppermill.com 52

I M AG E S WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y. C O M

Excellent fishing amid dramatic mountain beauty awaits you in Southwest Virginia.

Whitetop Laurel, Taylor’s Valley, Green Cove, Big Tumbling Creek, Hidden Valley, and the forks of the Holston are just a few of the streams that will delight and challenge any angler.

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

ANNUAL EVENTS

March WHITETOP MAPLE FESTIVAL last Sunday in March 388-3257

April MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL GARDEN FAIRE 676-6309

HIGHLANDS JAZZ FESTIVAL (800) 435-3440

May DAMASCUS APPALACHIAN TRAIL DAYS middle weekend of May 388-3257

PLUMB ALLEY DAY 676-2282

June ABINGDON SUMMER CONCERT IN THE PARK SERIES

Our Services:

June-early fall 676-2282

July FOURTH IN THE PARK 676-2282

SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA

Adult & Geriatric Medicine Pediatric Care • Adolescent Care Pharmacy • X-Ray & Laboratory Minor Surgery • Emergency Medicine Hospitalization Sliding Fee Scale for Qualified Patients

Community Health Systems, Inc.

VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS FESTIVAL Our Locations:

July 26-Aug. 10, 2008 623-5266

Corporate Office – (276) 496-4492 319 Fifth Ave. • Saltville, VA 24370 Meadowview Health Clinic – (276) 944-3999 13168 Meadowview Sq. • Meadowview, VA 24361 Saltville Medical Center – (276) 496-4433 308 W. Main St. • Saltville, VA 24370 Tazewell Community Health – (276) 979-9899 583 Riverside Dr. • N. Tazewell, VA 24630 Troutdale Medical Center – (276) 677-4187 67 High Country Ln. • Troutdale, VA 24378 Twin City Medical Center – (276) 669-5179 2195 Euclid Ave. • Ste. 6 • Bristol, VA 24201 Veterans Program 308 W. Main St. • Saltville, VA 24370 Whitetop Community Health – (276) 388-3067 16309 Highlands Pkwy. • Whitetop, VA 24292 Migrant Health Network – Saltville, VA

www.SVCHS.com

T h e a r e a c o d e f o r Wa s h i n g t o n C o u n t y i s 2 7 6 .

Mt. Rogers Medication Assistance Program Available at each location

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Lawson Hatch Financial Services

201 W. Main St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 • (276) 628-2583 Serving You First and First in Performance Whether buying or selling your most valuable possession, call the Realtor with a proven sales record!

PAT McDONALD, ABR, GRI Cell: (276) 356-6789

E-mail: patmcdonald6789@embarqmail.com www.patmcdonald.featuredwebsite.com Record-setting volume in residential sales for SWVA Association of Realtors & Callebs Realty since 2000

Bruce Hatch, Jr. CFP® Certified Financial Plannertm

599 E. Main St. (276) 628-5633

William F. Lawson CLU, ChFC Chartered Financial Consultant

Robert L. Ashley Financial Consultant

If it’s Important to You, We’ll Help You Protect it.

The single source for ALL your insurance needs: • Auto • Home • Financial Products • Business Call me … Stop by … Log on – it’s your choice!

Sales • Service • Parts

Mickey E. Tyler 325 Cummings St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 628-8109 • (800) 697-8109 Fax: (276) 628-6085 www.nwagent.com/mickey_tyler.html

Interstate 81 • Exit 14 • Abingdon, VA 24210

(276) 628-2127 Harold Crabtree, Owner

PATTY CALLEBS ABR, CRB, CRS, GRI Broker/Owner

AUCTIONEERS & REALTY, INC. Full Service Real Estate & Auctions Residential Sales • Estates Antiques • Auction 17572 Lee Hwy. Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 628-9588 Fax: (276) 628-9580 E-mail: RoarkRandR@comcast.net www.rrauctioneersandrealty.com

J. Vann Roark ABR, GRI Owner/Broker/Auctioneer

201 W. Main St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 628-2583 • Cell: (276) 356-1631 Fax: (276) 676-1161 E-mail: callebsrealty@bvunet.net www.callebsrealty.com

Licensed in VA/TN

Sometimes winning a race is not about beating

the other runners.

It’s about honoring survivors and those who’ve lost the battle. It’s about raising funds for research, education, screening and treatment. The Komen Race for the Cure® is about support, not competition. Join us at komen.org or 1.800 I’M AWARE®.

This space provided as a public service. ©2004, The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

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WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

Community Profile

September Southeast Region’s

WASHINGTON COUNTY FAIR AND BURLEY FESTIVAL

LARGEST Selection

Sept. 8-13, 2008, 628-8141

Over 20,000 area rugs

HAYTER’S GAP FESTIVAL 944-5867

WHITETOP MOLASSES FESTIVAL

40%-70% off every day

388-3480

October MEADOWVIEW APPLE BUTTER FESTIVAL 944-3500

November MISTLETOE MARKET Nov. 7-9, 2008 628-5005

KIWANIS CHRISTMAS PARADE Nov. 21, 2008 676-2282

HOLIDAY CRAFTS FAIR Nov. 21-23, 2008 623-5279

CHOOSE FROM HANDMADE RUGS AND MACHINE-MADE RUGS from around the world.

Region’s only

Gallery

18150 Lee Highway, Exit 13 • Abingdon, VA 24210 • (276) 628-9821

www.abingdonrug.com

December COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING 676-2282

CHRISTMAS IN HISTORIC ABINGDON Month of December 676-2282

CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES Dec. 14, 2008 676-2282

FOR MORE INFORMATION Washington County Chamber of Commerce 179 E. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 Phone: 628-8141 www.washingtonvachamber.org

Sources: www.washingtonvachamber. org, portal.washcova.com/ portal/public/, www.abingdon.com

T h e a r e a c o d e f o r Wa s h i n g t o n C o u n t y i s 2 7 6 .

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P.O. Box 977 • Abingdon, VA 24212-0977

(276) 628-5191 Toll-free: (866) 868-3305 Fax: (276) 628-1695 E-mail: eblevins@agfirst.com www.farmcreditofvirginias.com

BOS INC.

www.bos-inc.com

BRISTOL OFFICE SUPPLY INC. Office supplies & furniture Canon copiers Canon full line servicing dealer 28 Moore St., Bristol, VA 24201 (276) 669-7131 or (800) 654-7687

Thomas M. Hicok, CPA, CVA, CFFA James H. Fern, CPA, CVA David B. Brown, CPA Juan Garcia, CPA

511 W. Main St., Wise, VA 24293 (276) 328-2259 or (800) 422-6025 Serving SW Virginia and NE Tennessee since 1932

One of America’s Oldest

HICOK, FERN, BROWN & GARCIA CPAS

(276) 628-1123 E-mail: hicokfern&co@firmcpa.com www.firmcpa.com

Dealers

Charles R. Day (276) 628-5123 (276) 628-7038 Fax

BE ESON & BE ESON R C H I T E C T S

I N C .

P.O. BOX 650 • ABINGDON, VA 24212-0650

beesonarchts@naxs.net

MEADE REALTY SALES • AUCTIONS • APPRAISALS "Real Estate Services Since 1982" 549 W. Main St., Abingdon (888) 828-3789 www.meaderealty.com

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I spy something green.

Everyday moments can be learning moments with your kids. For more tips, visit bornlearning.org

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

Visit Our Advertisers

Save Money.

Smell the Flowers.

Abingdon Convention & Visitors Bureau www.abingdon.com

Highlands Community Services www.highlandscsb.org

Abingdon OB-GYN

Highlands Realty Inc. www.highlandsrealtyinc.com

Abingdon Orthopedic Associates PC www.abingdonortho.com

Highlands Union Bank www.hubank.com

Abingdon Quality Inn & Suites www.choicehotels.com

Inn on Town Creek www.innontowncreek.com

Abingdon Rentals www.abingdonrentals.com

Jamea Blevins – State Farm Insurance www.jameablevins.com

Abingdon Rug Outlet www.abingdonrug.com Barter Theatre www.bartertheatre.com BB&T www.bbandt.com Beeson & Beeson Architects Inc. Blue Ridge Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Bristol Office Supply Inc. www.bos-inc.com Brown Dental Associates PC www.browndentalassociates.com BVU Optinet www.bvu-optinet.com Callebs Realty www.callebsrealty.com

Looking for ways to save money on gas and help the environment?

The EPA wants to share some smart driving tips that could give you more miles per gallon of gas and reduce air pollution. Tips like making sure your tires are properly inflated and replacing your air filter regularly. And where possible, accelerate and brake slowly. Be aware of your speed ... did you know that for every 5 miles you go over 65 mph, you’re spending about 20 cents more per gallon of gas? If you’re shopping for a new car, choose the cleanest, most efficient vehicle that meets your needs. If we each adopt just one of these tips, we’d get more miles for our money and it would be a little easier to smell the flowers. For more tips and to compare cleaner, more efficient vehicles, visit

Callebs Realty – Pat McDonald www.realtor.com/southwestva/ patmcdonald

www.epa.gov/greenvehicles.

WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y

Comcast Cable www.comcast.com

Johnston Memorial Hospital www.jmha.org K-VA-T Food Stores www.foodcity.com Lawson Hatch Financial Services Meade Realty www.meaderealty.com New Peoples Bank www.newpeoplesbank.com R&R Auctioneers & Realty Inc. www.rrauctioneersandrealty.com Radford University www.swcenter.edu/ru/ Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems Inc. www.svchs.com The Bank of Marion www.bankofmarionva.com The Mahaffey Agency www.themahaffeyagency.com

Ear, Nose & Throat Specialty Center

The Martha Washington Inn www.marthawashingtoninn.com

Edward Jones www.edwardjones.com

The Peppermill www.thepeppermill.com

Emory & Henry College www.ehc.edu

The Virginian Golf Club www.thevirginian.com

Empire Ford Inc. www.empireford1.com

Tyler & Associates – Nationwide www.nwagent.com/mickey_tyler.html

ETSU www.etsu.edu

Universal Fiber Systems www.universalfibers.com

Farm Credit www.farmcreditofvirginias.com

Virginia Highlands Community College www.vhcc.edu

Farris Funeral Service Group www.farrisfuneralservice.com First Bank & Trust Company www.firstbank.com

Washington County Industrial Development Authority www.washcova.com

Grand Court www.brookdaleliving.com

Washington County Public Schools www.wcs.k12.va.us

Hampton Inn of Abingdon www.hampton.com

Washington County Skill Center www.wcskillcenter.org

Hicok, Fern, Brown & Garcia CPAs www.firmcpa.com

William King Regional Arts Center www.wkrac.org

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