2011 | imageswashingtoncounty.com ÂŽ
Washington county, virginia
All About the Arts County cultural scene thrives
a walk through history
Two new programs celebrate area’s rich past
in the fast lane County, companies move business sector forward
sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce
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Wa s h i n g t o n C o u n t y
2011 edition | volume 11 ÂŽ
Washington County, Virginia co nte nt s F e atu r e s 10 A Walk Through history
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Two new programs celebrate area’s rich past
14 all about the arts County cultural scene thrives
18 in the fast lane County, companies move business sector forward
d e pa r tm e nt s 6 Almanac 22 Biz Briefs 24 Chamber Report 25 Economic Profile 26 Image Gallery 32 Sports & Recreation 34 Arts & Culture 36 Education 38 Local Flavor 43 Health & Wellness 47 Community Profile 48 Through the Lens
on the cover Photo by Antony Boshier The Holston Mountain Artisans Center
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Please recycle this magazine
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2011 | imageswashingtonCounty.Com ®
washington County, virginia
all about the arts County cultural scene thrives
a walk through history
Two new programs celebrate area’s rich past
in the fast lane County, companies move business sector forward
sponsored by the washington County Chamber of CommerCe
Digital edition Easily share articles and photos on Facebook, Twitter or via email
Facts & Stats
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Dig deeper with in-depth data on industries, schools and more
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Washington Count y, Virginia Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jessica Walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Copy Editor Jill Wyatt Contributing writers cArol cowan, laura hill, joe morris, karen schwartzman, tiffany williams Media Technology Director Christina Carden Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Jessica Manner, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Vikki Williams
Digital Edition
Graphic Designer Rachael Gerringer Media Technology Analysts Chandra Bradshaw, lance Conzett, Marcus Snyder Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier Web Content Manager John Hood Web project manager noy fongnaly Web Design Director Franco Scaramuzza Web designer II Richard stevens Web developer i Yamel Hall
A Walk Through
Web Account Manager Lauren Eubank Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf
History
Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan I.T. Director Yancey Bond Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman Office Manager/Accounts Receivable
IN WASHINGTON COUNTY, HISTORY IS A HOT TOPIC
Coordinator Shelly Miller color imaging technician Alison Hunter STORY BY LAURA HILL
Chairman Greg Thurman
T
hanks to a new Revolutionary War interpretive center and a new brochure guiding a Civil War walking tour of historic Abingdon, Washington County residents and visitors alike are enjoying fresh encounters with the area’s rich past.
President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter, Carla Thurman Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester
Abingdon’s town planner, Garrett Jackson, is a Revolutionary War reenactor.
Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./business Development Scott Templeton
PHOTO BY ANTONY BOSHIER
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Overmountain Trail Begins in Abingdon The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail stretches more than 330 miles through Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina, marking the arduous route followed by patriotic militiamen in pursuit of the British. Their campaign ended in the historic Battle of Kings Mountain, S.C., in October 1780, a victory for the patriots that Thomas Jefferson called the turning point in the
Revolutionary War. The trail begins in Abingdon, where hundreds of Revolutionary War soldiers gathered for their Overmountain March, but until recently the trailhead’s significance was not well known. “Most people growing up here have no idea that Abingdon was that important in the Revolutionary War, but when they do find out, they are just blown away,” Abingdon town planner Garrett Jackson says. In 2006, when the town was offered the opportunity to buy the old Mustering Grounds, a 9-plus-acre meadow, it “jumped at the chance,” Jackson says. In partnership with the National Park Service and other groups, a former garage on the property was turned into a new visitor’s center housing 18th-century artifacts, changing exhibits and eventually a
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V.p./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Custom Publishing Kim HOlmberg V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens V.P./Sales Charles Fitzgibbon, Herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Content Director/Travel Publications Susan Chappell Content Director/Business Publications Bill McMeekin content Director/livability.com Lisa battles Marketing Creative Director Keith Harris Distribution Director Gary Smith
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Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake Receptionist Linda Bishop
Images 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 email 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 www.washigntonvachamber.org Visit Images Washington County online at imageswashingtoncounty.com ©Copyright 2011 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. Member
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Almanac
Welcome to Washington County An introduction to the area’s people, places and events
Honor, Remember, Reflect Abingdon Veterans’ Memorial Park opened in 2003, providing a place for recreation and reflection. It includes a flag tribute representing the branches of military service, as well as several monuments with the central one listing the names of the area’s deceased soldiers and the battles in which they fought. Brick pavers that honor hundreds of local veterans surround the central monument, with room for about 1,000 additional pavers.
Travel the Trail One of Washington County’s greatest natural assets is the Virginia Creeper Trail‚ a 35-mile multipurpose rail trail that stretches from Abingdon to Whitetop near the North Carolina state line. During spring and summer‚ hundreds of locals and tourists flock to Abingdon to bike, hike or horseback ride along the trail. Part of the Virginia Creeper Trail’s appeal is its outstanding scenery‚ which encompasses two geographic regions of Virginia. The Blue Ridge Mountains are situated east of the trail‚ and the ridge and valley province of Virginia extends to the west. Visitors can also enjoy the inns and bed-and-breakfasts situated near the trail‚ offering a relaxing place to unwind.
Come One, Come All It began in 1950 as the Burley Tobacco Festival and Farm Show, and today is simply known as the Washington County Fair. Running for six days in midSeptember and drawing more than 60,000 visitors to the Washington County Fairgrounds, the fair offers activities such as 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.
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Dust Off Your Kilt The Virginia Highlands Festival began in 1948 and has grown into a popular event, complete with an arts and crafts show, various entertainers, an antiques market, art and photography competitions, concerts and appearances by well-known writers, lecturers and artists. Taking place in historic Abingdon, the festival also offers a Creative Writing Day where workshops in fiction, poetry, children’s literature and songwriting are available. Children are also welcome to attend the festival, and can enjoy magicians, jugglers and parades.
4-H Fun Located in Virginia’s countryside, the Southwest Virginia 4-H Educational Center has been serving the area’s young people for more than 40 years. The center provides a space where youth can develop leadership skills through fun, hands-on activities, as well as through workshops and seminars. In addition, the center is also frequented by businesses, church groups and other organizations that use the various facilities the location has to offer, such as meeting and dining rooms.
Sit Back and Relax Allow your tension to dissolve with a full body massage at the Martha Washington Hotel and Spa. Once you’re done, enjoy an organic, farm-raised meal in the dining room and a peaceful night’s rest on the finest cotton sheets. This historic landmark, offering modern accommodations, was constructed back in 1832 as a private residence. Since then, it has housed a finishing school‚ a Civil War hospital and a women’s college, finally opening as an inn in 1935. The spa, added in 2006, offers treatments for women, men and couples, with options such as facials, massages, body wraps, and nail and hair services. Other amenities include wireless Internet service, 14 pieces of fitness equipment and a saltwater pool.
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Sleep at home tonight; 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; or enjoy a wonderful play at The Barter Theatre. End a perfect day by checking into one of the many historic bed and breakfasts or hotels that Abingdon offers.
Abingdon Convention and Visitors Bureau acvb@abingdon.com www.abingdon.com (800) 435-3440 (276) 676-2282
abingdon, Virginia
Amenities Complimentary Deluxe Continental Breakfast Meeting Room Accommodating 15 People Free Local Calls Smoke-free Location Complimentary USA Today Outdoor Pool
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Reservations:
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(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 8
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Fast Facts
Author Eats Local
n The rich history of the Saltville Valley, which dates its human occupation back 14,000 years, is documented in several exhibits at the Museum of the Middle Appalachians in Saltville.
With titles like The Poisonwood Bible, Animal Dreams and Pigs In Heaven, author Barbara Kingsolver has touched on a wide variety of social issues. But it was a return to her roots in southern Appalachia that prompted her bestseller entitled Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life. Chronicling 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, the book made its way onto the New York Times Best Seller List in 2007.
n Approximately one dozen new businesses are getting a competitive advantage by being located in the Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator in Stone Mill Park.
Washington County At A Glance Population (2010 Estimate) Washington County: 54,443 Abingdon: 8,009 Glade Spring: 1,525 Damascus: 1,066
For More Information Washington County Chamber of Commerce 179 E. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 Phone: (276) 628-8141 Fax: (276) 628-3984 www.washingtonvachamber.org
Location Washington County is in southwestern Virginia, 135 miles south of Roanoke, 130 miles northeast of Knoxville, Tenn., and 150 miles northwest of Charlotte, N.C.
What’s Online
Beginnings Washington County was established Dec. 7, 1776, in the throes of the Revolutionary War and was named after Gen. George Washington.
Take a virtual tour of Washington County, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imageswashingtoncounty.com.
n Abingdon’s Arts Depot is a nonprofit art gallery including working artist studios that are open to visitors. The gallery is housed in a 19thcentury freight station. n Agriculture continues to be the main economic contributor to Washington County. The primary commodities are alfalfa, corn, dairy, livestock, poultry and tobacco.
S Saltville Washington County
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Abingdon’s town planner, Garrett Jackson, is a Revolutionary War reenactor. photo by Antony Boshier
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A Walk Through
History In Washington County, history is a hot topic
Story By laura hill
T
hanks to a new Revolutionary War interpretive center and a new brochure guiding a Civil War walking tour of historic Abingdon, Washington County residents and visitors alike are enjoying fresh encounters with the area’s rich past. Overmountain Trail Begins in Abingdon The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail stretches more than 330 miles through Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina, marking the arduous route followed by patriotic militiamen in pursuit of the British. Their campaign ended in the historic Battle of Kings Mountain, S.C., in October 1780, a victory for the patriots that Thomas Jefferson called the turning point in the
Revolutionary War. The trail begins in Abingdon, where hundreds of Revolutionary War soldiers gathered for their Overmountain March, but until recently the trailhead’s significance was not well known. “Most people growing up here have no idea that Abingdon was that important in the Revolutionary War, but when they do find out, they are just blown away,” Abingdon town planner Garrett Jackson says. In 2006, when the town was offered the opportunity to buy the old Mustering Grounds, a 9-plus-acre meadow, it “jumped at the chance,” Jackson says. In partnership with the National Park Service and other groups, a former garage on the property was turned into a new visitor’s center housing 18th-century artifacts, changing exhibits and eventually a 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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A house dating back to the Civil War at Muster Grounds photo by Antony Boshier
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Brian M c Cord
permanent collection. An 1820s home on the site will become a Civil War museum. “We often talk about a community having a feather in its cap, and I think this is a feather for us and for the region,” Jackson says. “It will be a real boon to tourism.” Abingdon Tour Illustrates Civil War Sites Abingdon is also luring visitors with a new illustrated brochure published to mark the sesquicentennial of the Civil War, which begins in 2011. Washington County’s Civil War History, produced by the Washington County Historical Society, offers a detailed look at an important era in Abingdon’s past. A walking tour map illuminates history through the town’s many historically noteworthy buildings and the citizens who built, lived and worked in them.
“This area was more important during the Civil War than many people realize,” says Melissa Watson, library manager for the Historical Society. “We weren’t in the middle of a battle, but there were things that made Abingdon significant, like the salt works up the road, which the Union Army wanted to take over, and the fact that we were a railroad hub.” The tour gives a fascinating glimpse of an Abingdon that was perhaps even busier than it is now, Watson says. The town, a popular stopover on the main road to the Cumberland Plateau, boasted taverns, hotels, an opera house, cigar factory and more in the mid-19th century. Noteworthy sights on the tour include the Andrew Russell House, a Confederate military regional headquarters, the Tavern, which served as a field hospital during the war, and the county courthouse, a replica of the original that was burned during Stonemans’ Raid in 1864.
Above: Tiffany stained-glass windows at the Washington County Courthouse
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Arts Are
GROWING Abingdon boasts a lively array of arts
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Story By Laura Hill
L
ong a cultural hub for the region, Abingdon proudly nurtures a varied and lively assortment of arts organizations and programs, from theater, to handicrafts, to independent film. Perhaps the best known is the Barter Theatre, an internationally celebrated cultural organization and a National Historic Landmark. Having begun in the Depression, it takes its name from the goods-for-tickets trading that enabled early audiences to see its plays. Annually, the Barter presents a varied season of professional comedy, drama and musicals with an eye toward work of special interest to the region.
Antony Boshier
Grant Aids Barter Appalachian Festival Since 2001, the Barter has presented its annual Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights (AFPP), a popular event that promotes regional playwrights and generates new material for Barter and other theaters around the country. Though the Barter may have begun years ago with little funding, it has recently prospered with a $25,000 grant from Dominion, the power company, to support the AFPP.
A leaf bowl by Linda Kaylor at the Holston Mountain Artisans Center
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Abingdon’s Arts Array
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Photo Courtesy of Jerry Musick
Barter Theatre
to be an outreach to the community, as well as education for kids,” says Arts Array coordinator Ben Jennings, a professor of English and film studies at VHCC. “Arts Array has a dual purpose, supplementing the college curriculum as well as reaching the community young folks and older folks.” Jennings says he chooses the events in the series, which runs during both semesters of the academic year “to be the most diverse they can be in a small space.” Events are free to students, with a modest charge to community members.
Abingdon Features Array of Arts The Civil War also played a role in Abingdon’s celebrated Arts Array, sponsored by Virginia Highlands Community College. An extended and richly varied series of film screenings, lectures, concerts and arts experiences from dance to drumming, 2010-2011 offerings included a seminar on the Civil War in Abingdon 150 years ago. A second seminar tackled issues surrounding local coal mining and its environmental effects. “Community colleges were designed
Abingdon Artisans Find New Home Once again history made itself felt in the arts, as the Holston Mountain Artisans, an arts and crafts cooperative launched in 1961, relocated from its former home in the old Cave House to new quarters in the city’s historic jail building. Celebrating the group’s 40th anniversary in 2011, the new shop is a bright, airy space filled with a broad array of regionally authentic crafts and handiwork, among them crocheted children’s items, dulcimers, quilts, baskets, pottery and wood carving.
Fabric at the Holston Mountain Artisans Center, an arts and crafts cooperative
Antony Boshier
Brian M c Cord
Antony Boshier
Basket weaving at the Holston Mountain Artisans Center
Barter also triumphed in spring 2011 with the debut of an original play, Civil War Voices, by James R. Harris, which it also staged in Charleston, S.C., as part of that city’s sesquicentennial Civil War commemoration. The play combines the real-life stories of five people in the war years with music of the period arranged by composer Mark Hayes. “The show contains no fiction,” Harris writes. “The words used in the show are often the actual words the characters used in diaries, letters and other writings … this is history you can’t find in history books.”
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Business
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In the
FAST
Lane
County, companies move business sector forward
Story By Kevin Litwin Photography By Antony boshier
N
ot long ago, corporate giants Pepsi and Colgate both turned down Washington County as a community where the companies wanted to construct new manufacturing plants. Pepsi and Colgate had both expressed desire to locate in the Oak Park Center for Business & Industry in Abingdon, but ultimately declined because the industrial park had only one access road in and out of the 300-acre facility. So what did Washington County do to make sure that never happens again? The Washington County Board of Supervisors and the Washington County Industrial Development Authority made it a top priority for Oak Park to get a second access road that connects with U.S. Highway 11, and construction of that road will begin
in the summer of 2011. It will open by the end of 2011. “Pepsi and Colgate actually listed Oak Park as one of their very top choices to locate in the state of Virginia, but both companies were worried that if an accident ever occurred on the one existing road, traffic and distribution could be clogged for a long period of time,” says Christy Parker, Washington County assistant administrator for community and economic development. To solve the problem, Washington County recently received a $5.7 million grant from the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission to grade three mega-sites at Oak Park. The cost for grading was $4.3 million, and the other $1.4 million was earmarked for the new access road.
“The three mega-sites are 67.8 acres, 45 acres and 40 acres, and all are shovel-ready with infrastructure and the upcoming new road, for big companies to move right in if they’re interested,” Parker says. “And while the new road is being built, a few smaller site pads will be graded adjacent to the road in case smaller companies or light industries want to locate here, too.” Parker says also helping the local business scene these days is a planned expansion for nearby Virginia Highlands Airport that will eventually lengthen its runway from a current 4,300 linear feet to 5,000 linear feet. “Almost all corporate jets need to land on a runway that is at least 5,000 linear feet, and Virginia Highlands Airport will soon have that,” Parker says.
A second access road that connects with U.S. Highway 11 will be built for Oak Park by the end of 2011.
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Business Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator
One company that is already doing business in Oak Park is Universal Companies, which brands itself as “your one source spa solution.” The company has been serving the spa industry since 1982 and today is a leading international distributor of products, equipment and supplies to spas, skin care professionals and resorts. A few other current business sector happenings in Washington County are as follows: Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator This incubator building in Abingdon provides starting businesses with an entrepreneurial environment, giving them helpful support services and community resources during the start-up period. The facility is equipped with high-speed Internet, conference facilities, low overhead and one-on-one business coaching.
Spa products from Universal Companies
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BVU Authority BVU Authority has been a part of Washington County since the early 1950s, serving as an electricity provider for several portions of the county. Today, BVU serves 8,000 Washington County customers. “We used to be called Bristol Virginia Utilities but now simply go by BVU Authority, or BVU,” says Stacey Pomrenke, executive vice president and chief financial officer. “Besides electricity, we provide much of Washington County with broadband and cable TV service, which is vitally important to most consumers today.” Staying on the cutting edge of technology isn’t BVU’s only concern. The company is also dedicated to being a good steward of the environment, which prompted it to partner with Alpha Natural Resources in 2009 to plant 16,500 trees, one for every BVU customer. “We planted trees everywhere – at parks, colleges and schools – and we made sure all of them were environmentally sustainable and gave back lots of oxygen,” says Gail Childress, director of community outreach for Bristol Virginia Utilities. “We also made sure they were trees that would make a positive difference, like fruit trees, magnolias, pines, willows and flowering crabapples.”
Todd Bennett
Bristol Virginia Utilities has won multiple awards for its broadband fiber network and green practices.
Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator
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Business
Biz Briefs Businesses – both large and small – that help define Washington county’s economic climate
Scorecard Business At A Glance
$472,000 Annual retail sales
$9,187 Retail sales per capita
$57,000 Annual hotel and food sales
4,016 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts
CAPO’S Biz: Music store Buzz: Opened in 2009, Capo’s is owned by Amy and Gill Brasswell, who place heavy emphasis on the Appalachian culture that is reflected in the instruments, art and books sold in the store. Additionally, Capo’s provides educational opportunities for all skill levels, and donates a portion of their proceeds to local nonprofits and charities each month. www.caposmusicstore.com 22
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SOULFULL EVENTS Biz: Event planners Buzz: Soulfull Events provides custom accent pieces for various event rentals, including fundraisers, corporate events, meeting or tradeshow arrangements, and holiday and birthday parties, among others. To keep things as easy as possible, Soulfull Events offers a number of pre-packaged options for a few event staples, such as themed birthday and holiday parties. Appointments are available to view showroom items. www.soulfullevents.com WATERS-DORSEY DESIGNS Biz: Custom label water bottles Buzz: Waters-Dorsey Designs is a custom water bottle producer that provides custom labels to businesses and residents of Washington County. They enable businesses to utilize a unique and more eco-friendly method of advertising through custom bottle labels rather than traditional methods. They use pure mountain spring water from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and all bottles are both recyclable and biodegradable. www.watersdorseydesigns.com
Compassion • Integrity • Exceptional Service Washington County’s only on-site crematory Farris Funeral Service Farris Cremation & Funeral Center Forest Hills Memory Gardens Faithful Pets Cremation & Burial Care • 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 • (276) 623-2700 www.farrisfuneralservice.com
Services for Remembrance and Healing
CARY STREET PARTNERS Biz: Investment banking Buzz: In 2002, Mark Gambill and Tom Tullidge, both successful investment bankers, joined forces to open the independently owned Cary Street Partners. With the intention of serving every client on a personal level and remaining objective, Cary Street Partners has grown to include seven separate locations. Services include individual wealth management, marketing strategy, and research and institutional advisory services. www.carystreetpartners.com MAGNOLIA Biz: Home furnishings Buzz: Established and owned by a mother-daughter duo, Magnolia prides itself on selling a variety of unique and one-of-a-kind items. Magnolia furniture marketplace sells pieces to suit almost any style, whether it be classic or eclectic. Styles offered include French, Asian-inspired, modern, woodwork and traditional. www.magnoliafurnishings.com
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Business
Chamber Report Leadership program yields three strong projects
T
he 2011 Leadership Washington County graduating class has proven it can lead. Leadership Washington County is an annual eight-month program backed by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce to help train professionals from all walks of life to become better leaders. Participants meet 15-17 times over the eight months to learn about
various aspects of the community, such as law enforcement, education, health, business and local government. In addition, the 2011 class of 15 individuals was split into three teams of five to think of three projects to better their Washington County community. “One of the teams chose a project on health; one opted for an agriculture project; and the other team got involved
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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with an environment project,” says Barry Firebaugh, director of Leadership Washington County. “All were very successful.” Health Project The team that chose a health project organized and hosted a Health & Fitness Fair on April 5, 2011, at Abingdon Senior Center. “About 100 people were in attendance, along with medical professionals checking blood pressure, blood glucose, oxygen levels, bone density, hearing and vision,” Firebaugh says. “It was a great program for the Senior Center and there was also a Red Cross Bloodmobile on-site.” Agriculture Project The second five-member team put together a Local Food, Local Farms project that featured an open-tothe-public panel discussion at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. In attendance were speakers from a USDA farm office, Ag Extension individuals talking about local 4-H and individuals from Appalachian Sustainable Development. “There was also a professor from Emory & Henry College talking about buying from local farmers, plus there was a local farmers market representative talking about local food choices,” Firebaugh says. Environment Project The third five-member team worked with the Town of Abingdon’s Go Green Committee to publish a brochure identifying items that can be recycled by citizens of Washington County, and where in the county they can take the recyclable items. “The brochures are now available at the chamber, visitor’s bureau and in newcomers’ packages, with a goal of getting many citizens involved in recycling,” Firebaugh says. “All three Leadership projects in 2011 were excellent.” – Kevin Litwin
economic profile 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.
150-249 Employees Columbus McKinnon Corporation Manufactures Electric & Hand Hoists
major employers 1,000+ Employees: Bristol Compressors Manufactures Hermetic Compressors Washington County Virginia School System Education 500-749 Employees: Johnston Memorial Hospital Health Care Mid-Mountain Foods Grocery Distribution 250-499 Employees K-VA-T/Food City Grocery Distribution Universal Fibers Inc. Produces Man-Made Fibers Utility Trailer of Glade Spring Manufactures Dry Freight Trailers
HAPCO Aluminum Poles Manufactures Flag & Lighting Poles Paramont Manufacturing Manufactures Molded Truck Components
income
$26,922 Per Capita Income
$49,179 Average Annual Household Expenditure
Transportation Highways Interstate 81; U.S. Highways 11, 19 and 58; Virginia Primary Highways 75, 80 and 91
Air Tri-Cities Regional Airport, a regional commercial aviation airport, is 34 miles southwest of Abingdon off of I-81 near Blountville, Tenn. Virginia Highlands Airport, a general aviation facility, is located 1 mile west of Abingdon on U.S. Highway 11. Rail A Norfolk Southern mainline runs through Washington County. Bulk and mixed freight service, containerized piggyback, and team track service are available. Water Port of Hampton Roads, Va. is 397 miles east of Abingdon. Inland container port at Front Royal, Va., is 223 miles northeast of Abingdon.
Resources Washington County Chamber of Commerce www.washingtonvachamber.org
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Image Gallery
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Train trestle on the Virginia Creeper Trail Photo by Todd Bennett
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Image Gallery
Confederate soldier statue in downtown Abingdon Staff Photo
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St. Thomas Episcopal Church on Main Street in Abingdon Photo by Brian McCord
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Image Gallery
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Tulips at the Municipal Building in Abingdon Photo by Todd Bennett
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Sports & Recreation
Love Nature many options for outdoor enthusiasts hether you want to golf, fish or hike, Washington County has a variety of recreation opportunities for outdoor lovers.
Golf 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. Nearby Bristol also has two venues – the public Clear Creek Golf Club and The Virginian Golf Club, a private course. Clear Creek, a scenic 18-hole championship course, is widely regarded as one of the Tri-Cities’ finest-conditioned public golf courses. The Virginian’s masterpiece course was designed by Tom Fazio and has been honored as one of the top 100 in America by several national publications. The Virginian has also been rated the third-best private golf community in America by the Robb Report magazine. It has been called “one of America’s Premier Properties” by Links magazine and “one of the 50 Best Places to Live in America” by Golf Magazine.
Fishing Anglers of all types flock to the area on a year-round basis, but from early spring through late summer, the focus is on flyfishing. Specific sites that are best for fly-fishing fanatics are Whitetop Laurel Creek, Taylor’s Valley, Big Tumbling Creek, Hidden Valley, Green Cove and
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the Holston River. Those fishing spots are especially ideal for good catches of brook, brown and rainbow trout, as well as several other species. Whitetop Laurel Creek is perhaps the area’s best-known spot for the sport of fly-fishing, with the most active months occurring from late March through most of June.
Cycling, Hiking and Camping Stretching from Abingdon to Whitetop near the North Carolina state line, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a 35-mile multipurpose rail trail. With gorgeous scenery, a well-groomed, gentle grade friendly to bikers and hikers of all levels, and a rich history, the Virginia Creeper Trail draws more than 100,000 trail visitors annually. It has helped Damascus – located where the Virginia Creeper and Appalachian trails intersect – to go from a sleepy town with a slowing economy to a bustling center of recreationfocused activity. Also available for outdoor enthusiasts is the Appalachian Trail, commonly called the A.T. This trail is sometimes referred to as the granddaddy of all U.S. hiking trails because it spans a distance of approximately 2,160 miles, traverses eight national forests and touches 14 states. The A.T., established in 1937, was designated as the first completed national scenic trail in 1968. Since then, more than 10,000 individuals have reported hiking the entire trail. – Joe Morris, Kevin Litwin, Jessica Walker
Staff Photo
W
Todd Bennett Staff Photo
Clockwise from left: Hiking the Appalachian Trail; Hole No. 2, a par 3, at The Virginian Golf Club in Bristol; Fly-fishing is also popular in the area.
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Arts & Culture
A Cultured Crowd washington county is a good place for art lovers
R
esidents of Washington County are fortunate to have numerous top-notch cultural institutions in their midst.
Barter Theatre Perhaps the most famous is the historic Barter Theatre, an arts facility with a storied past and more than 160,000 visitors each year. The Abingdon theater opened in 1933 during the Great Depression, when the price of admission was 40 cents – or the equivalent in food – a policy that gave the theater its distinctive name. Today‚ the Barter Theatre company puts on an incredible 16-17 productions per week from February through December, and is one of the few remaining nonprofit resident acting troupes in the United States. In addition to the original, 507seat main theater space known as the Town Hall‚ the downtown complex includes a second stage known as Barter Stage II‚ which seats 167‚ along with a café and Stonewall Square. Famous Barter alumni include Gregory Peck, Patricia Neal, Ernest Borgnine, Ned Beatty
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and Gary Collins, among other notable stars.
William King Regional Arts Center The William King Regional Arts Center is a community landmark and a focal point for the arts. The center in Abingdon is housed in an early 20th-century building that served as a school until 1973. It was converted into an arts facility in 1979 and now offers in-house classes for adults and children‚ with staff members even traveling to educate elementary school students using the center’s “Van Gogh” truck. Other school programs bring third- and fourth-grade students into the arts center for gallery tours, lessons and related art projects. Special classes also have been developed for home-school students, and week-long summer art camps keep young minds and hands engaged, even when school is not in session. The center, a partner of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, also features art from the region and around the world, with its free exhibitions changing every 10 to 12 weeks.
Arts Depot Another hot spot for art exhibitions and classes is located in downtown Abingdon in what was a railroad freight depot for more than 100 years. Today, the Arts Depot is the headquarters of the 300member, nonprofit Depot Artists Association, formerly the William King Artists Association. It has two galleries, as well as studio space, workshops and classrooms, and offers lectures‚ demonstrations and discussions. The Arts Depot is dedicated to making the arts accessible to the community and offers classes for all ages. Topics range from basic drawing and pastel, acrylic and oil painting, to watercolor portraits and silk painting. Other offerings include scrapbooking, collage and digital photography. In addition, a partnership between area arts organizations, including the William King Regional Arts Center, and higher education institutions sponsors Arts Array, a series of foreign and independent films, concerts, lectures, museum exhibits and other cultural events, which are open to the community. – Tiffany Williams
160,000
1979
100
Number of people who visit the Barter Theatre each year
Year the William King Regional Arts Center building was converted into an arts facility
Number of years the Arts Depot served as a railroad freight depot
Wa s h i n g t o n C o u n t y
Todd Bennett Brian M c Cord
Brian M c Cord
Top right and bottom: Works from the William King Regional Arts Center
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Education
Grab a Seat Washington County education offers wide variety of options tudents, please take your seats. Today’s lesson is: Washington County offers topnotch education opportunities at all levels of learning, including a strong public school system and a variety of colleges.
Washington County School System Quality education begins with the youngest students, and Washington County School System ensures that students will receive a safe, supportive and engaging learning environment, which challenges all students to achieve their own maximum potential. Through partnerships with families and community organizations, each student acquires basic education skills and receives a diverse array of educational opportunities that
promote healthy social, physical and intellectual growth. All schools are members of the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges. The system includes seven elementary schools, four middle schools and four high schools. The school system offers various programs, such as Advanced Placement classes, dual enrollment, Gifted and Talented Education or GATE, and Governor’s School, in addition to two vocational schools for students to attain technical skills and certification through training and on-the-job experience.
Emory & Henry College The oldest college in southwest Virginia, Emory & Henry opened in 1836 and is a four-year institution focused on
providing a transformative academic environment for its students. With an average enrollment of approximately 1,000, the school provides small classroom sizes and close working relationships among students and faculty. “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.” Included in the school’s more than 25 programs of study are a high-tech mass communications program, a strong education program and interdisciplinary
Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center
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Wa s h i n g t o n C o u n t y
Antony Boshier
S
programs that allow students to combine classes from more than one discipline to create a more specialized major. One of its leading programs is public policy and community service, which Moore says is becoming increasingly popular across the country.
Virginia Highlands Community College Also providing an array of classes to more than 3,500 students is Virginia Highlands Community College. Located along Interstate 81 at exit 14 on a 100-acre campus, Virginia Highlands is a two-year college that offers a number of programs for students who will ultimately transfer to a four-year institution. Founded in 1969, VHCC offers programs and services geared to directly meet the needs of the local community. One program is the Center for
Business and Industry, which was created in 1996 to better prepare students for the local workforce. The center offers retraining, jobspecific and pre-employment training, and plays a large role in the area’s economic development efforts. VHCC’s dual-enrollment program allows high school students an opportunity to earn college credit, and the Tobacco Outreach program provides tuition assistance for tobacco farmers and their families. VHCC is also involved with more than 30 four-year institutions as part of its Guaranteed Admissions Program, which helps students prepare for their transfer process to a fouryear college. The tuition at VHCC is about one-third the cost of attending a public university in Virginia, and each year the college provides more than $5 million in grants and scholarships to its students.
Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, which is located on the VHCC campus, opened in 1998 and partners with local colleges and universities to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs and professional development courses primarily for adult learners. The center has more than 60 graduate and undergraduate degree programs and more than 1,000 students. In addition to providing educational offerings, the center is the go-to site for local business and industry for meetings and staff development. The center boasts a conference facility and auditorium, more than 25 classrooms, computer classrooms, Internet access, a science lab and even more. – Kevin Litwin and Raven Petty
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Antony Boshier
Local Flavor
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Farmers and Residents Unite washington county promotes local foods
W
hen Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life, written by renowned author and Washington County resident Barbara Kingsolver, hit the New York Times Best Seller List in 2007, it brought widespread attention to a farm-to-table movement gaining momentum throughout the country. It also shined a spotlight on Washington County and the transition to a healthier food system that’s been under way here for the past 16 years. “More than any other book, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle put us on the map,” says Anthony Flaccavento, former executive director of Appalachian Sustainable Development.
Appalachian Sustainable Development Founded in 1995, the notfor-profit, Abingdon-based organization provides a support network that newcomers to the local-foods ideal can plug into – whether they come by way of Kingsolver’s book or some other avenue, Flaccavento says. To promote a strong local food system that benefits the consumer, the farmer and the environment, Appalachian Sustainable Development encourages organic farming and helps link consumers with local farmers and foods. It owns and operates the Appalachian Harvest packing facility in nearby
Duffield, where area farmers – many from Washington County – bring produce and eggs grown organically on their farms to be washed, graded, packed and shipped to grocery stores within a five-state region Appalachian Sustainable Development also was instrumental in building the Abingdon Farmers Market, which is the largest in the area. From the third week of April through the end of November, approximately 1,600 customers visit the Abingdon Farmers Market every Saturday morning. The market also is open Tuesday afternoons. “It’s a wonderful facility,” Flaccavento says. “It is very functional with plenty of shade, water and electric hookups, a chef, live music and a terrific assortment of vendors.”
Abingdon Farmers Market The Abingdon Farmers Market maintains a local-only market vendor policy – meaning vendors must have grown, raised or made the products they sell, Flaccavento says. “That policy has been very important because it has created a real appreciation for the healthy choices, diversity and sustainability among our local foods and products,” he says. “We are also working with other farmers markets in the area, and we have formed a regional association of farmers markets because there is so much interest.”
Harvest Table, Meadowview Farmers Guild Several area restaurants that use local, organically grown produce, eggs and meats to prepare menu items provide another conduit between consumers and local foods. Among those is Harvest Table, the companion restaurant of the Meadowview Farmers Guild general store in Meadowview. The restaurant has an everchanging menu that showcases the region’s freshest foods. Chefs Richard Houser and Philip Newton turn local grass-fed beef, native trout, organic produce and artisan cheeses into tantalizing selections, such as Rich Valley Ribeye Steak with garlic and peppercorn butter, lump crabstuffed Blue Ridge Trout and Four-Cheese Quiche with pecans and chard. And if you have room, you might want to try the strawberry rhubarb pie with homemade ice cream. By the way, Harvest Table was named the greenest restaurant from Washington D.C. to Atlanta, Ga., by Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine. “Restaurant patrons often travel from the surrounding areas,” says Lori Price, manager of Meadowview Farmers Guild. “And a lot of folks that have read Animal, Vegetable, Miracle want to come and see what eating local foods is all about.” – Carol Cowan
Potted plants for sale at the Abingdon Farmers Market, where products are grown, raised or made locally
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Local Flavor
Farmers Market Favorite Try this zucchini, corn and tomato salad with fresh, local ingredients 11/2 pounds zucchini 1
1/4
teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh corn kernels (cut from two ears) 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1/2
teaspoon sugar
1/4
teaspoon black pepper
1/4
cup extra-virgin olive oil
Gently squeeze handfuls of zucchini to remove excess water and pat dry with paper towels. Cook corn in a small saucepan of boiling water until tender, about 3 minutes. Drain, then rinse under cold water and pat dry.
8 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved lengthwise 1/4
Toss zucchini strips with 1 teaspoon salt and let drain in a colander set over a bowl, covered and chilled, for 1 hour.
cup thinly sliced fresh basil
Working with one zucchini at a time, cut lengthwise into very thin (julienne) strips with slicer, turning zucchini and avoiding core. Discard core.
Whisk together lemon juice, sugar, pepper, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl, then add oil in a slow stream, whisking. Add zucchini, corn, tomatoes and basil; toss well.
Innovative Cuisine in a Casual Atmosphere
Handcut SteakS • PaSta • FreSH SeaFood cHicken • daily cHeF’S FeatureS 967 W. Main St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 623-0530 • (276) 619-4811 Fax www.thepeppermill.com
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Brown Dental Associates, P.C. General & Preventive Family Dentistry • Since 1974
Ronnie L. Brown, D.D.S. • Bob L. Brown, D.D.S. • Michael A. Hull, D.M.D. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Adult/Child Prophylaxis Sealants Periodontics (Treatment of Gum Disease) Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Whitening Porcelain Veneers Now Offering Porcelain Crown/Bridges Partials/Dentures CLEAR CORRECT Onlays/Inlays Clear Correct is the clear and simple way to straighten Endodontics (Root Canals) your teeth without wearing Implant Dentistry braces so you can show Extractions off your smile! Nitrous Oxide Sedation New Patients Welcome Biteguards We File Dental Insurance Sleep Apnea Appliances Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Intra Oral Camera
915 W. Main St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 • (276) 628-9507 • www.browndentalassociates.com
Abingdon
Obstetrics & GynecOlOGy, P.c.
Jay W. Lavigne, M.D. Melanie Leight, M.D. Nicole A. Long, D.O. Brett A. Manthey, D.O. Maria M. Briscoe, CFNP Paula K. Wright, CFNP
(276) 628-4335 277 White St. • Abingdon, VA 24210
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Health & Wellness
Just What the Doc Ordered Johnston Memorial Hospital opens new building
J
ohnston Memorial Hospital began in 1905 as a 12-bed facility and has grown to become a major medical center for southwest Virginia. Now it has grown even more. A new 350,000-square-foot, $135 million hospital opened in June 2011 along the south side of Interstate 81, between exits 19 and 21 in Abingdon. The four-story, 116-bed medical center is now being used instead of the longstanding JMH building that served the community well for many years in downtown Abingdon. “Our general contractor R.J. Griffin and the army of subcontractors and construction workers they assembled to
At Your Services
complete this project have battled record-breaking rainfall, high winds, strong storms and snow – one major weather issue after another – since we broke ground on the facility in late 2009,” says Sean McMurray, CEO of JMH. “Their dedication to keeping the project moving forward regardless of what Mother Nature threw their way has been most impressive.” McMurray says construction of the new hospital focused on green initiatives with an emphasis on energy savings and environmental design. It spans 60 acres and is nearly three times the size of the old facility, and the additional space will allow JMH to expand in the future.
The new hospital opened on the heels of several new services that JMH has implemented for patients. In 2010, the hospital opened The Center for Comprehensive Wound Care, which provides specialized treatment for chronic wounds. In 2009, Johnston Memorial Hospital Surgery Center opened, making it the first outpatient surgery center in southwest Virginia. In 2008, the hospital opened its urgent care center and treated more than 8,000 patients, and also in 2008 the hospital opened the Diabetes Care Center to provide the latest in diabetes care, treatment and education. And after opening the region’s first and only digital mammography system in late 2006, Johnston Memorial opened a $22 million, 60,000square-foot cancer center in 2007.
Antony Boshier
Let’s Be Partners Johnston Memorial Hospital recently joined the Johnson City, Tenn.-based Mountain States Health Alliance, along with 14 other hospitals that serve 29 counties in Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina and Tennessee. The Alliance also includes approximately two dozen primary/preventive care centers as well as numerous outpatient care sites.
More About JMH
Johnston Memorial Hospital provides the following medical care services:
• Case Management/ Social Services
• Blood Bank
• Diabetes Care
• Bio-Medical Ethics Committee
• Laboratory
• Nutrition Therapy
• Maternity Care
• Pharmacy
• Nutrition Therapy
• Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy
• Education
• Palliative Care
• Surgery
• Cancer Center
• Emergency
• Nutrition Therapy
• Sleep Medicine
• Cardiopulmonary
• Home Care
• Pastoral Care
• Urgent Care
• Services
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visit our
advertisers Abingdon Convention & Visitors Bureau www.abingdon.com Abingdon OB-GYN www.abingdonobgyn.com Abingdon Physician Partners www.abingdonphysicianpartners.com Beeson & Beeson Architects Inc. Bristol Office Supply Inc. www.bos-inc.com Broadmore Senior Living www.broadmore-bristol.com Brown Dental Associates PC www.browndentalassociates.com BVU Optinet www.bvu-optinet.com Comfort Suites Abingdon www.choicehotels.com/hotel/va492 Emory & Henry College www.ehc.edu Farm Bureau Insurance – Agent David Leland www.farmbureauadvantage.com Farm Credit Country Mortgages www.farmcreditofvirginias.com Farris Funeral Service Group www.farrisfuneralservice.com First Bank & Trust Company www.firstbank.com Food City www.foodcity.com Hampton Inn of Abingdon www.hampton.com Hicok, Fern, Brown & Garcia www.firmcpa.com Highlands Union Bank www.hubank.com Johnston Memorial Hospital www.msha.com/jmh Lawson Hatch Financial Services Mickey Tyler & Associates www.nwagent.com/mickey_tyler.html 6039-TR12260M_TGB_Livability.indd 1
3/22/10 11:40:09 AM
New Peoples Bank www.newpeoplesbank.com The Bank of Marion www.bankofmarionva.com The Martha Washington Inn & Spa www.marthawashingtoninn.com
Living green starts from the ground up. Living green is making sure the air in your home is healthy for your family to breathe. Test your home for radon and build radon-resistant. It's easy. That's living healthy and green.
Just call 866-730-green or visit www.epa.gov/radon
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The Peppermill www.thepeppermill.com The Virginian Golf Club www.thevirginian.com Virginia Highlands Community College www.vhcc.edu Washington County Industrial Development Authority www.washcova.com
Real Estate
Specialty of the House Abingdon offers many residential options
A
bingdon is such a nice town that many of its 8,000 natives never leave at all, except for college or military service. Small-town charm comes naturally here, with picture-perfect streets bordered by red-brick sidewalks and beautifully restored historic structures. A Victorian home might neighbor a Federalstyle building on one side and a 1940s bungalow on the other. Somehow, the mix is harmonious. Houses from the 18th and early 19th centuries blend peacefully together in the downtown district, while today’s Abingdon is transforming itself into a town where you can live and work comfortably. The quality of life, progressive city government and constant stream of activities make it very attractive, plus the prices are reasonable. The average home price in 2010 for Abingdon was about $140,000.
emphasizing physical strengthening and emotional well-being. Westhaven also makes sure there’s something to do for everyone. Crafts, bingo, exercise,
air hockey, movies, birthday parties, dances, bands and karaoke are some of the available activities. If that’s not enough, the center also offers a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains.
And rest easy: Abingdon continues to grow in status as a retirement destination. In fact, Where to Retire magazine has praised Abingdon for being an undiscovered haven. Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal featured the town as an ideal retirement community, pointing out its stunning vistas, thriving arts community, a mild climate and charming downtown. For anyone needing an assisted living center, Westhaven Retirement Living is open 24 hours a day to offer its residents three balanced meals, laundry services, and daily housekeeping and trash removal. The center also provides residents with activities
Antony Boshier
Not Shy, But Retiring
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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
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 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
Dealers
Hicok, Fern, Brown & Garcia cPas Thomas M. Hicok, CPA, CVA, CFFA James H. Fern, CPA, CVA David B. Brown, CPA Juan Garcia, CPA (276) 628-1123 E-mail: hicokfern&co@firmcpa.com www.firmcpa.com
Lawson Hatch Financial Services 599 E. Main St. (276) 628-5633
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Bruce Hatch, Jr. CFP® Certified Financial Plannertm
community profile Snapshot Washington County is renowned for its cultural and historical significance. Abingdon 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.
cost of living Climate
$38,023 Median Household Income
Washington County enjoys a mild climate, with a snowy winter, warm summer and fall foliage that peaks in mid-October.
85° July Average High
22° January Average Low
$55,714
Marital Status:
54% Married
46%
Median Home Price
Single
$556
Ethnicity:
Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment
94% White
Household Information
3% Black
46” Annual Rain Fall (vs. National Average Annual Rain Fall of 37”)
Age:
40 Median Resident Age
time zone Eastern
land area
563 Square Miles
22% 19 and Under
47% 20-54
1% Hispanic
2% Other
transportation
31%
20 minutes
55 and Over
Median Travel Time to Work
This section is sponsored by
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Through the Lens
Get the Story Behind the Photo Now that you’ve experienced Washington County through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. Visit imageswashingtoncounty.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments. From Our Photo Blog: Washington County When I get to a new community, one thing I like to do is pick up some brochures of what’s in the area. One in particular caught my eye in Washington County – the one for White’s Mill. The brochure gave me a little bit of information about its history, which dates back about 120 years. It was still powered by water up until 1989. The mill fell out of production leading up to the turn of the century, and in 2001, the White’s Mill Foundation was formed and purchased the mill. But it was the photo on the brochure that really piqued my interest. It was the mill at dusk with the warm glow from a floodlight illuminating it as it was reflected in a pond. Very cool shot. I wanted to try my hand at it … Posted by todd bennett
More Online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at imageswashingtoncounty.com.
Creeping Along the Virginia Creeper Trail 48
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Holston Mountain Arts and Crafts Coop
Ad Index
8 Abingdon Convention & Visitors Bureau 42 Abingdon OB-GYN 1 Abingdon Physician Partners
46 Farm Bureau Insurance – Agent David Leland
46 Farm Credit Country Mortgages
23 Farris Funeral Service Group
46 First Bank & Trust Company
46 Beeson & Beeson Architects Inc.
46 Bristol Office Supply Inc.
42 Broadmore Senior Living
8 Food City
42 Brown Dental Associates PC
8 Hampton Inn of Abingdon
46 Hicok, Fern, Brown & Garcia
40 BVU Optinet
23 Highlands Union Bank
C3 Comfort Suites Abingdon
c2 Johnston Memorial Hospital
37 Emory & Henry College
Ad Index (cont.)
46 Lawson Hatch Financial Services
46 Mickey Tyler & Associates
25 New Peoples Bank
47 The Bank of Marion
40 The Martha Washington Inn & Spa
41 The Peppermill
24 The Virginian Golf Club
40 Virginia Highlands Community College
C4 Washington County Industrial Development Authority
Relax
and Get RECHARGED
Abingdon Hot Breakfast Buffet – 6-9 a.m. Free Wireless/Wired Internet • Business Center Fitness Center • Indoor Pool with Hot Tub Guest Laundry • Microfridges in Every Room 1093 Ole Berry Dr. • Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 698-3040 • (276) 698-3050 fax www.choicehotels.com/hotel/va492