Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Images Washington County 2011
Images Washington County 2011
Com
Comprehensive Ear, Nose and Throat Care Including Audiology and Allergy Services
16000 Johnston Memorial Dr., Ste. 312 Abingdon, VA 24211 (276) 258-3730
Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of most musculoskeletal conditions ranging from sports injuries to total joint replacement.
Stephanie Alford, MD Jonathan Bielfield, DO Melvin Heiman, MD Aileen Bergen, PA-C Jacquelin Greene, NP Timothy McGarry, MD Daniel Milam, DO Steve Gardner, PA-C Christy McGhee, NP
Leticia I. Peltzer, MD
Raymond Hinerman, MD
3170 Linden Dr., Ste. 6 Bristol, VA 24202 (276) 591-3687
16000 Johnston Memorial Dr., Ste. 100 Abingdon, VA 24211 (276) 258-1760 3170 Linden Dr., Ste. 6 Bristol, VA 24202 (276) 591-3687 58 Carroll St. Lebanon, VA 24266 (276) 883-8086
Your Partner
in health care
Emory Internal Medicine is accepting all adult patients, with special care for seniors.
Inte
moryd i c i n e E rnal Me
www.abingdonphysicianpartners.com
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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
all or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.
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Whats online
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2011 | imageswashingtonCounty.Com
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History
IN WASHINGTON COUNTY, HISTORY IS A HOT TOPIC
STORY BY LAURA HILL
A Walk Through
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 areas 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 trailheads 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 visitors center housing 18th-century artifacts, changing exhibits and eventually a
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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 The Association of Magazine Media Member Custom Content Council
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Almanac
Wa s h i n g T o n C o u n T y
4-H fun
located in virginias countryside, the southwest virginia 4-H educational Center has been serving the areas 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.
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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 Fitness Center In-room Coffee Makers In-room Microwaves and Fridges Electric Door Locks on Guest Rooms Jacuzzi Rooms Available 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Free High-speed Wireless Internet
Youll be Satisfied.
SM
(800) 426-7866
Present this ad to receive $5 off room rate.
Reservations:
340 Commerce Dr. Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 619-4600 (276) 619-4605 Fax
www.hampton.com 8
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Fast Facts
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. 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. n abingdons 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.
Whats online
Take a virtual tour of Washington County, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imageswashingtoncounty.com.
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History
in washington County, history is a hot topiC
sToRy By laura hill
A Walk Through
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 areas 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 trailheads 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 visitors center housing 18th-century artifacts, changing exhibits and eventually a
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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 Countys Civil War History, produced by the Washington County Historical Society, offers a detailed look at an important era in Abingdons past. A walking tour map illuminates history through the towns 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 werent 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.
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GRoWinG
abingdon boasts a lively array of arts
Arts Are
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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. 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.
AnTony BosHieR
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Barter Theatre
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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 citys 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 cant find in history books. abingdon features array of arts The Civil War also played a role in Abingdons 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
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 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 citys historic jail building. Celebrating the groups 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 childrens items, dulcimers, quilts, baskets, pottery and wood carving.
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AnTony BosHieR
Fabric at the holston mountain artisans Center, an arts and crafts cooperative
AnTony BosHieR
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Business
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In the
FAST
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.
Lane
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 theyre 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.
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
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. 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 isnt BVUs 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.
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bristol virginia utilities has won multiple awards for its broadband fiber network and green practices.
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Business
Biz Briefs
Businesses BoTh large and small ThaT help deFine WashingTon CounTys 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
Capos Biz: Music store Buzz: Opened in 2009, Capos 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, Capos 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 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
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
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 Abingdons 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, visitors 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
Unspoiled. Uncrowded.
The Virginian ... a place where man and nature combine to create a setting so unique, its not what has been built, but rather what hasnt. 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 youll see what life can be when youre 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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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 hapCo aluminum poles Manufactures flag & lighting Poles paramont manufacturing Manufactures Molded Truck Components
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
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.
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
resourCes
Washington County Chamber of Commerce www.washingtonvachamber.org
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image Gallery
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image Gallery
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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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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 virginians 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 Americas Premier Properties by Links magazine and one of the 50 Best Places to live in America by Golf Magazine.
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 areas best-known spot for the sport of fly-fishing, with the most active months occurring from late March through most of June.
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, Taylors valley, Big Tumbling Creek, Hidden valley, Green Cove and
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sTAff PHoTo
sTAff PHoTo
Todd BenneTT
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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a cultured crowd
WashingTon CounTy is a good plaCe For arT lovers
esidents of Washington County are fortunate to have numerous top-notch cultural institutions in their midst.
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
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 caf and stonewall square. famous Barter alumni include Gregory Peck, Patricia neal, ernest Borgnine, ned Beatty
160,000
Number of people who visit the Barter Theatre each year
1979
Year the William King Regional Arts Center building was converted into an arts facility
100
Number of years the Arts Depot served as a railroad freight depot
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top right and bottom: Works from the William King regional arts Center
BRiAn M c CoRd
Todd BenneTT
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education
grab a seat
WashingTon CounTy eduCaTion oFFers Wide varieTy oF opTions
tudents, please take your seats. Todays lesson is: Washington County offers topnotch education opportunities at all levels of learning, including a strong public school system and a variety of colleges.
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 Governors school, in addition to two vocational schools for students to attain technical skills and certification through training and on-the-job experience.
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 thats 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 schools more than 25 programs of study are a high-tech mass communications program, a strong education program and interdisciplinary
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AnTony BosHieR
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.
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 areas economic development efforts. vHCCs 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.
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local flavor
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Wa s h i n g T o n C o u n T y
AnTony BosHieR
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. its 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.
potted plants for sale at the abingdon Farmers market, where products are grown, raised or made locally
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Wa s h i n g T o n C o u n T y
local flavor
teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh corn kernels (cut from two ears) 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 1/4 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. 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. 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.
Working with one zucchini at a time, cut lengthwise into very thin (julienne) strips with slicer, turning zucchini and avoiding core. discard core.
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Abingdon
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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Wa s h i n g T o n C o u n T y
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.
at your serVices
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 regions first and only digital mammography system in late 2006, Johnston Memorial opened a $22 million, 60,000square-foot cancer center in 2007.
lets 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.
AnTony BosHieR
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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
visit our
New Peoples Bank www.newpeoplesbank.com The Bank of Marion www.bankofmarionva.com The Martha Washington Inn & Spa www.marthawashingtoninn.com
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
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Wa s h i n g T o n C o u n T y
Real estate
emphasizing physical strengthening and emotional well-being. Westhaven also makes sure theres something to do for everyone. Crafts, bingo, exercise,
air hockey, movies, birthday parties, dances, bands and karaoke are some of the available activities. if thats not enough, the center also offers a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains.
AnTony BosHieR
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beesonarchts@naxs.net
BOS INC.
www.bos-inc.com
Dealers
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Wa s h i n g T o n C o u n T y
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.
marital status:
$38,023
median household income
54%
married
$55,714
median home price
46%
single
85
July average high
$556
median rent for a Two-Bedroom apartment
ethnicity:
94%
White
22
January average low
household information
age:
3%
Black
46
annual rain Fall (vs. national average annual rain Fall of 37)
40
median resident age
1%
hispanic
time zone
eastern
22%
19 and under
2%
other
land area
47%
20-54
transportation
563
square miles
31%
55 and over
20 minutes
median Travel Time to Work
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more online
See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at imageswashingtoncounty.com.
Ad Index
8 Abingdon Convention & visitors bureAu 42 Abingdon ob-gYn 1 Abingdon PhYsiCiAn PArtners 46 beeson & beeson ArChiteCts inC. 46 bristol offiCe suPPlY inC. 42 broAdmore senior living 42 brown dentAl AssoCiAtes PC 40 bvu oPtinet C3 Comfort suites Abingdon 37 emorY & henrY College C2 Johnston memoriAl hosPitAl 46 fArm bureAu insurAnCe Agent dAvid lelAnd 46 fArm Credit CountrY mortgAges 23 fArris funerAl serviCe grouP 46 first bAnk & trust ComPAnY 8 food CitY 8 hAmPton inn of Abingdon 46 hiCok, fern, brown & gArCiA 23 highlAnds union bAnk
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
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
Abingdon