alleghany living, va 2012
Transcription
alleghany living, va 2012
A L L E G H A N Y L IV IN G , VA 2 0 1 2 - 2013 www.visitalleghanyhighlands.com 2 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 WELCOME Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce Staff TERESA A. HAMMOND Executive Director MELODY WEESE Office Manager BRENDA LEMONS Special Projects KARA ASBOTH Special Projects KRISTEN MOSES Customer Service Board of Directors WELCOME TO THE ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS OF VIRGINIA! We hope you will find this a valuable guide, whether thinking about locating to the area, already living in the area, or just visiting the stunning Alleghany Highlands. We’re glad that you have chosen to pick up this guide about the Alleghany Highlands and we hope you enjoy the area, no matter how long your stay may be. The beautiful mountain surroundings inspire the people of the Alleghany Highlands in many ways. We enjoy a thriving arts community complete with galleries, studios, theatre, dance and music. We work hard to preserve and honor our historic treasures, including our railroad heritage. Our mountains not only provide beautiful vistas, but also a natural, year-round playground for residents and visitors to enjoy. Most of all, the Alleghany Highlands is a community of friendly people who embrace small town life. We greet each other and visitors with a friendly “hello.” Although we offer a small town feel and closeness of community, our pro-business environment is home to internationally known corporations. We are strategically positioned midway along the Eastern Seaboard providing excellent linkages to major U.S. markets. It’s easy to get to the Alleghany Highlands. Interstate 64 runs through the region, making it a conventient drive from Washington, Baltimore, Richmond and many other mid-Atlantic cities. We have a strong labor force; developed through our award-winning schools and a forward-thinking college system that supports continuing education and workforce development. We invite you to join our naturally stunning community and, no matter what brings you here, we hope you feel right at home and we encourage you to plant roots and see what make us uniquely Alleghany. Greg Madsen, President Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism 110 Mall Road • Covington, VA 24426 • 540-962-2178 • 888-430-5786 www.ahchamber.com • info@ahchamber.com • www.visitalleghanyhighlands.com GREG MADSEN President – Lewis Gale Alleghany Hospital DAVID ARRITT President-Elect – Arritt Funeral Home TOM KIRLIN Past President – Hounds Cry Farm J.W. TINGLER, JR. Vice President Farm & Fuel, LLC KEVIN PERSINGER Treasurer – SonaBank STEVE BENNETT Alleghany County PHIL BOWEN JenFab, Inc. NANCY FARRAR A.H. Arts & Crafts Center MATT GARTEN Greenway’s Real Estate JOANN GIDEONS The Red Lantern Inn ROSS HAMMOND Commonwealth Contracting GAYLE HILLERT Town of Clifton Forge BUTCH KEMPER Dawn Warehousing TIFFANY KING-SANDERS Chapman Plumbing, Heating & AC DAVID KLEPPINGER AHEDC JANET NEATHAWK S.J. Neathawk Lumber, Inc. MIKE PERSINGER Dawn Warehousing THOMAS SIBOLD JR. City of Covington MARK STOCKWELL Meadwestvaco DEANN STULL Highland House JACOB WRIGHT Wright Family Group Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 3 4 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S Alleghany Living Magazine 2012 – 2013 Community 6 Publisher RP Publishing Barry Wright 2033 Cook Drive Salem, VA 24153 540.772.1868 Opportunity 19 Editors Bonnie Brown Kara Asboth Barry Wright Healthy Living 24 Contributing Writers Learn 29 Recreation 34 Map 20-21 Hospitality Guide Resource Guide Annual Events 40 41 42 Photography List of Advertisers 9 Alleghany County 33 Alleghany County Public Schools 15 Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center 13 Alleghany Highlands Arts Council ibc Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism 26 Alleghany Highlands Community Services 4 Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation 28 Alleghany Highlands HomeCare 11 B.A. Rupert Real Estate, Inc. 17 Chapman Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. 24 City of Covington 12 Clifton Forge School of the Arts 22 Commonwealth Contracting Services, Inc. Jennifer Unroe Inna Henderson Paul Linkenhoker Helen E. Kostel Gayle Hillert Anne Piedmont Joy Sutton Charlotte Williamson Gail Johnson Ellen Nipper Jane Tucker Jaimie Lomasney Lorie C. Bess Barry Wright 10 Dabney S. Lancaster Community College 11 Douthat State Park 28 First National Bank 8 Fresh Estates & Country Properties 35 Garth Newel Music Center 25 The Glebe 13 Highlands Realty 7 The Historic Masonic Theatre 23 JENFAB, Inc. ifc LewisGale Regional Health System 36 Mikula/Harris bc MWV 26 Scott Hill Retirement Community 14 Town of Clifton Forge 15 WVVA Health Care Alliance, PC Jada Callender Pat Richards Anne Piedmont Judy Clark Jane Tucker Douthat State Park Clifton School of the Arts Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corp. Mikula/Harris Lisa Akers with Crawford Photography, LLC Kristen Garten Photography Chuck Almarez of Fire & Light Gallery Graphic Design Michael Doherty Wanda Kemp Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 5 C O M M U N I T Y Covington is the County Seat of Alleghany County and was incorporated in 1833. The Alleghany Highlands… A Wonderful Place to Live, to Work, to Play. The Alleghany Highlands encompasses 452 square miles and lies within the James River Basin. The area includes the City of Covington and Towns of Clifton Forge and Iron Gate. The larger part of the area has been designated a Virginia Certified Business Location and Virginia Tourism Accredited Community. The Highlands is rich in natural resources, abundant fresh water, dense timber and minerals. The area is densely wooded with important hardwood species dominating the forest. The bedrock of our community lies in its diversity: an enviable central location with an expansive and efficient transportation network; a rail and interstate highways – which offer easy access to extensive natural resources allowing industries and our region to prosper. 6 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 The Alleghany Highlands is Virginia’s Western Gateway with Interstate 64 providing direct access to the west and many major markets in the United States. Additionally, it connects Interstate 81 and Interstate 77 that are major north and south routes. US Primary Routes 60 and 220 also cross the Highlands along with State primary routes 18, 24, 159, and 311. CSX provides freight and services with offices in Clifton Forge and Covington. Air service is available via Greenbrier Valley Airport and Roanoke Regional Airport. Alleghany County has a wellbalanced climate with about 39 inches of rain and 17 inches of snow each year. Elevations range from 1,000 feet to 4,049 feet. Temperatures drop below freezing in December and peak in the high 80’s in July, though in the summertime the cool mountain breezes make the outdoors delightful day and night. There are abundant outdoor activities, a very strong arts and crafts culture and dedicated energy to preservation of a cherished past. Douthat State Park, Lake Moomaw, and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest offer camping, hiking, canoeing, boating, fishing and natural scenic byways like no other. The Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center in downtown Clifton Forge displays art exhibits and locally crafted items of the highest quality. Only a short drive away exist two world-renowned resorts: The Homestead and The Greenbrier. The Homestead was home to legendary golfer Sam Snead and C O M M U N I T Y is Virginia’s supreme luxury resort and spa. The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, WV, is a National Historic landmark, offering impeccable service and outstanding amenities. New to the PGA tour is the Greenbrier Classic presented each July with Tom Watson as the resort’s golf professional emeritus. The Alleghany Highlands offers an extraordinary quality of life for its residents and an exceptional range of opportunities for visitors. The Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism strives to enhance both by fostering a healthy business environment and promoting economic growth. The Chamber is a unifying voice for business in Clifton Forge, Covington, Selma, Iron Gate, Low Moor and other parts of Alleghany County, as well as neighboring communities that do business in the Alleghany Highlands. Since, 1906, the Chamber has served the community as an action-oriented organization that has emerged as the leading advocate for commerce in the Alleghany Highlands. The chamber continues the tradition through innovative programs in the areas of business development, communications, awards, education, governmental advocacy and tourism promotion. The Alleghany Highlands has it all, and we are happy to share it with you! You are welcome to come to live, work, and play! Clifton Forge, as seen from Pine Street, was incorporated in 1884. The Historic Masonic Theatre an Alleghany Highlands landmark currently undergoing renovation. Visit our website at www.historicmasonictheatre.com for Schedule of Events. The Masonic Amphitheatre Now Open! Visit our website at www.historicmasonictheatre.com for Schedule of Events Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 7 C O M M U N I T Y Wellness, Fitness & Fun! Midway between the city of Covington and town of Clifton Forge one will find the Alleghany Highlands YMCA, a wellness facility built in 2007. Established in 1993 with the primary goal of providing quality, affordable child care for the area’s working families, the Y has since evolved as one of the Highland’s significant assets for attracting business and professionals to the region. The Wellness Facility located at 101 YMCA Way, Low Moor, right off I64, includes a health and wellness center equipped with cardiovascular and strength machines, as well as free weights for both men and FRESH Cardiovascular and strength training machines are only one part of the many ways to wellness and fitness at the Y! women. The full court gym also offers a suspended walking track and spinning room for cycling enthusiasts. Those who prefer group exercise classes will enjoy the Aerobics studio for Toning, Zumba, Circuit Training, Cardio Kick, Yoga, Hip Hop Aerobics and teen exercise programs. A big attraction for swimmers 12187 SAM SNEAD HIGHWAY, WARM SPRINGS, VIRGINIA 245 WEST MAIN STREET, COVINGTON, VIRGINIA 24426 Estates & Country Properties, Inc. Larry W. Fresh, Broker (540) 997-5219 • fresh@cfw.com Terry Kershner, Assoc. Broker (540) 839-5191 • kersh@tds.net Harold Higgins, Jr. (540) 962-8065 • higginsh@ntelos.net Jim Garcia (540) 691-5812 • standardp@aol.com Barry Calvert (540) 969-9606 • bgcalvert@ntelos.net Residential - Farms - Commercial Alleghany, Bath, Rockbridge, and Highland Counties www.freshestates.com (540) 965-3327 • (540) 839-3101 ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS - BATH & ROCKBRIDGE COUNTIES 8 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 C O M M U N I T Y and families is the facility’s fullsize indoor pool that hosts a comprehensive aquatics program from preschoolers and youth to adults. The aquatics center also features a spa and sauna to finish off one’s exercise routine. The Y offers a varied seasonal and year-round program schedule with youth and children’s programs such as Sporties for Shorties, youth basketball, KIDZ Boot Camp, Middle School Madness, gymnastics, martial arts, cheerleading and guitar lessons. For those children too young to participate in organized programs while their parents work out, child watch is offered for a nominal fee. YMCA Kids Unlimited is the largest child care program in the region, with services provided at the Y’s West and Central Learning Centers located conveniently near the major employers. With options for infants through school-age, parents can go to work knowing that their children are in the nurturing care of the Y’s qualified staff, providing a solid foundation for the public school setting and beyond. The Alleghany Highlands YMCA embraces the philosophy that “everyone deserves a Y,” offering financial assistance for child care or wellness services, based on a sliding fee scale. Tours of all facilities and free first-time wellness center visits are available by contacting the Y at 962-9622. Additional information can be found on the web at www.alleghanyhighlandsymca. org or through Facebook. Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 9 C O M M U N I T Y History of Alleghany Highlands Genealogical Society The Alleghany Highlands Genealogical Society is a grass roots, non-profit corporation, chartered by the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1994. The Society is governed by a Board of Directors composed of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian and three Members At Large. Membership is open to any applicant interested in furthering the objectives of the society without regard to race, creed, religion or social status. The AHGS began meeting in 1991 to bring together persons interested in history of families of the Alleghany Highlands. The first meeting was held in the Charles P. Jones Memorial Library. Later, meetings were held in the basement of the Alleghany County Courthouse. Subsequently, a room was made available in the former Rivermont School Building. The Society had used this location since March 10, 1994. In 2011 the Society moved to a larger facility in the Jeter-Watson Center, formerly JeterWatson School Building. Since its inception, AHGS membership has grown as well as the volumes of information available for researching family history. To date, the work of the Society has utilized volunteer labor, without paid staff. Its outreach services include an ongoing member recruitment program, publishing a quarterly newsletter, providing research assistance and information exchange with persons Visit us at www.dslcc.edu • Preparation for a variety of business, technology and service careers • Associate degrees for transfer to four-year colleges and universities • Guaranteed Admissions Agreements with Ferrum College, Hollins University, James Madison University, Radford University, Roanoke College, and over 30 others • Credit and non-credit general education and special interest classes • Outstanding programs include forestry technology, culinary arts and management, massage therapy, nursing and forensic science 10 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 throughout the United States who have an interest in past and present inhabitants of our area. The society has published many books containing previously unpublished records of births, marriages, deaths, indexes and inventories of cemeteries. It has published a pictorial book depicting people from the Alleghany Highlands. This book also includes genealogical information of some families. Through this work the society has preserved pictures for future generations. Its vast amount of death records has been used in documenting ancestors throughout the Alleghany Highlands. The Genealogical Society assisted hundreds of people in filling gaps in their family histories that otherwise might have eluded them forever. Those utilizing the society’s info are researchers, professionals and families, who want to close the gaps in information about someone’s heritage. The resultant documentation will have its value in years to come. Today’s researchers echo each other when they say, “If I don’t do it now it will be lost forever.” Members are located throughout the United States. The AHGS is their C O M M U N I T Y Alleghany Highlands Genealogical Society Library Business Hours Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday 10:00 A,M. – 3:00 P.M., Other times by Appointment: Call: Inna Henderson at 540-962-1501 Or write Alleghany Highlands Genealogical Society 515 East Pine Street Jeter-Watson Center Covington, Virginia 24426 Or email Inna Henderson InnaMcAlli@aol.com Linda Tucker Ltucker972@aol.com or AHGS.COV.VA@GMAIL.COM Douthat State Park, Millboro, VA Photo courtesy of Bill Crabtree Jr., Virginia Tourism Corp. link to locating information about places, dates and events, which took place in Alleghany County, Virginia and surrounding areas. The AHGS Library is open to the public three days a week but it attempts to accommodate by appointment those who must travel for some distance and cannot visit on these days. Work groups meet on alternate days to carry out various tasks which cannot be completed during hours of public access. Researchers who contact the area’s public libraries, neighboring genealogical and historical societies, the Chamber of Commerce, as well as Courthouses, are usually referred to the Alleghany Highlands Genealogical Society. ving a a h e ik l s ’ It ckyard ! a b e r c a 0 4,00 Love, Virginia 800-933-PARK (7275) | www.virginiastateparks.gov Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 11 C O M M U N I T Y An Architectural Treasure is… Reborn In 1904 in a small town in Southwest Virginia, a group of Masons decided to build a Masonic Lodge so they could have a permanent place to meet. Since opera houses were in vogue in the United States at that time, the members of the Lodge had the foresight to engage an architectural firm from Lynchburg, VA, Frye and Chesterman to design not only a Masonic Lodge but also a four story Opera House and Masonic Lodge in Clifton Forge, Virginia. The building opened in 1905 and immediately became the social hub of the community with musical and variety shows, vaudeville and local performers showcasing their talents in the beautiful 500-seat auditorium and balcony. Through the years, the Theatre not only presented live shows but also silent movies and “talkies”. Today, the Masonic Theatre is an architectural treasure. A four story, Beaux Arts brick building with pilastered facade, a cove ceiling lobby and original performance hall with stage and balcony. The Theatre has a lower level, an auditorium with lobby containing fine plaster detail still intact, a balcony and a fourth floor that once served as the Masonic Lodge. Throughout its history, the Masonic Theatre hosted western movie icons like Lash LaRue, who rode his horse down the theatre aisle, and Roy Rogers, who once appeared with his wonder horse Trigger. Other stars made the Masonic Theatre a part of their performance legacy. Performers included Gene Autry, Tex Ritter, Cowboy Bob Steele, and Hopalong Cassidy, as well as legends Burl Ives, the Drifters, and the world famous Count Basie Orchestra. Steeped in local history, the Historic Masonic Theatre remained the oldest continuously operating theatre in the Commonwealth of Virginia until closing its doors temporarily in 1987. In 1990, the Theatre was donated to Appalfolks of America by RC Theaters and re-opened presenting shows highlighting performing arts of the Appalachian Highlands such as the Virginia Opry, the Virginia Junior Opry and the innovative STARS program for challenged youth and adults. In 2003, Appalfolks generously donated the Masonic Theatre to the town of Clifton Forge, while continuing to offer performances to the community. 12 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 Today the theatre stands as a testament to the vision of earlier citizens of the area who sought to foster entertainment opportunities and community fellowship. However, the once beautiful landmark was badly in need of restoration. In 2009, The Masonic Theatre Preservation Foundation was formed to restore the Theatre. The architectural firm, Onsite, was hired, drawings have been developed, and the fundraising has begun. Plans for rehabilitation include a lower level intimate performance space, concession area and dressing rooms, the auditorium with restored box seats, the balcony with offices and conference area and the fourth floor (once the Masonic meeting lodge) featuring a large community hall suitable for receptions, large meetings, parties and reunions complete with catering kitchen. C O M M U N I T Y The rehabilitation of the Theatre has created excitement and anticipation for many in the area who have projected their enthusiasm into action through volunteering time and financial support for the project. Since the Foundation is sponsoring events while the Theatre is closed for restoration, businesses, especially the restaurants in the area, are benefitting from the activity. When the Theatre reopens the economic impact will clearly be felt with increased visitors who will benefit from cultural, educational, movie theater and performance arts programs geared to all age groups. The goal of the Foundation is to cooperate closely with other art and history venues in the area in marketing efforts to develop travel packages and provide supplemental options, coordinating with the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. The Theatre will be technologically equipped to provide a facility for business meetings, conferences and large and small group meetings. The Alleghany Highlands will have a first-class facility that will promote community pride and will complement the natural beauty that is indicative of the area. In addition to the Masonic Theatre restoration project, the Theatre Foundation has been the recipient of the design/buildLab program of Virginia Tech’s 16-student team of third-year architecture students who developed plans for the Masonic Amphitheatre project and have completed the construction. The students met with community members and conducted interviews asking about the needs and wishes for a community Amphitheatre. The design was finalized and presented to the community. A $150,000 grant from the Alleghany Foundation has enabled the project to become a reality. The goal of the design/buildLab was to teach students the skills necessary to confront the design and realization of architecture projects, with a consciousness for social and environmental issues. The Amphitheatre will provide a variety of affordable entertainment options for the “We Exceed Your Expectations” Alleghany Highlands community. More information and a schedule of events can be found on www. historicmasonictheatre.com and the Masonic Theatre’s Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/#!/ historicmasonictheatre and by emailing masonictheatre@yahoo.com Broker/Appraiser Peggy Doyle Associate Broker Garland Humphries Associate/Auctioneer Monty Bowman Lisa Brown - Associate Beth Persinger - Associate Member of VA & National Assn. of Realtors RESIDENTIAL SPECIALISTS • APPRAISALS • AUCTIONS www.highlands-realty.com 962-7589 862-4414 221 N. Court Avenue, Covington 433 E. Ridgeway St., Clifton Forge Licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 13 C O M M U N I T Y Clifton Forge – C&O Historical Society Among the Alleghany Highlands’ most admired destinations is the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway Heritage Center at the corner of Main and D Streets in Clifton Forge. The center, operated by the C&O Historical Society, is designed to inspire and delight all who visit there and to stimulate the local economy. Besides being a focus of community pride and a site for local meetings and gatherings, the C&O Railway Heritage Center is the central concept that will link numerous rail sites to form a heritage trail reaching from Newport News, Va., to the Great Lakes. The center is housed in an 1895 renovated C&O Freight Depot that contains the primary museum displays and the retail shop. There is a reproduction of a passenger station that stood in this location before. The area around the center, on a crescent of land beside the Jackson River, once held a large maintenance facility for the overhaul and repair of locomotives, a passenger coach yard, a yard for classifying coal and other freight, and the division headquarters for the region. This panorama of rail history is a typical example of the American railroad and is collected and displayed in the center, as is the history of Clifton Forge, historically one of rail’s most important locations. The C&O Railway Heritage Center (www.candoheritage.org) is open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday – Saturday, and 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday. For information, call 540-862-8653 or 540-862-2210. 14 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 C O M M U N I T Y Alleghany Highl ands Arts & Crafts Center F i n e A r t · F i n e C r a f t s F i n e F o l k s Renewal of Our Heritage Efforts to extend rail operations to Covington began with the incorporation of the Covington and Ohio Railroad with the intent of building a rail line to the Ohio River. The Civil War interrupted these plans but when the war ended in 1865, the plan was resurrected. The Virginia Central merged with the Covington and Ohio and formed the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad. The line reached Covington in 1869. The C&O Railroad led to the increased development of towns along its main corridor as well as numerous branch lines serving timber, iron, coal and tourist operations. Clifton Forge became a major division headquarters as two Eastern lines converged in the town which then marshaled trains to and from the western terminus. A modern brick passenger depot was built in Covington in 1890. It soon proved to be insufficient for the increased passenger service to the developing community and was replaced by a more elaborate and ornate structure in 1908. In 1999, the Alleghany Historical Society embarked on a campaign to restore the 1908 depot. A commitment was secured from the City of Covington to apply for federal transportation enhancement funds and the Society pledged the necessary matching funds through a fundraising campaign. Over the next six years, the partial grants were secured and funds were raised to begin a $715,000 restoration of the depot. In reality, the City additionally contributed in excess of $100,000 of in-kind and actual financial support to complete the restoration. In the fall of 2007, the depot had been completed for occupation and the Alleghany Historical Society moved its headquarters to the building. The Project benefited significantly from a grant from the Alleghany Foundation and several substantial contributors. In 2008, additional grants were secured from the Alleghany Foundation and another large contributor in order to rescue and restore the adjacent 1890 freight station. A total of more than $250,000 was spent on this project. It opened in 2009 and has been incorporated into the museum displays and activities of the Society and the City of Covington. An informal and strong partnership has been developed with the C&O Historical Society in Clifton Forge. The Covington depots provide information on the C&O’s impact on Covington and are listed as stops and attractions along the C&O Heritage Trail. The depots are open to the public on Tuesdays-Fridays from 12:00 Noon until 4:00 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. There is no admission charge. They are located at 149 S. Maple Avenue. The phone number of the Society is 540-965-0149 and the email address is alleghanyhis@ntelos.net. 439 E. Ridgeway Street Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540.862.4447 ahartcrafts@ntelos.net www.highlandsartsandcrafts.com By Paul Linkenhoker, Ed.D., Education Administration, Virginia Tech Past President and Current Director of the Alleghany Historical Society Health Care Alliance, PC Multi-specialty group with 16 primary care physicians, 6 specialists and 2 physician assistants offering: • Pediatrics • Family Practice • Orthopedic Surgery • Internal Medicine • Nephrology • General Surgery • Infectious Disease • Pulmonology • Sleep Medicine • Cardiology Serving infants to adult patients in the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia, and Greenbrier and Mercer county of West Virginia Dedicated to improving the health of the families we serve. For more information or to locate the physician nearest you, visit: www.wvvahealthcare.com Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 15 C O M M U N I T Y Arts & Culture IN THE Alleghany Highlands Along with the splendor of its natural beauty, the Alleghany Highlands offers a well-developed level of arts and culture. There are a variety of entities that support the visual and performing arts. The Alleghany Highlands Arts Council is the oldest of the group, established in 1953 and is celebrating its sixtieth season of presenting the finest performing arts events to audiences of all ages. All genres are offered from opera to blue grass. Notable professional performers from around the world have graced the Arts Council stage. Variety and quality are the common denominators with a history of names like Beverly Sills, Royal Shakespeare Company of London, Joffery II Ballet, Boys Choir of Harlem, Duke Ellington Orchestra, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, the Bulgarian Children’s Choir, Barter Theatre, Capitol Steps, Berlin Chamber Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony, Judy Collins, Burl Ives, Marie Osmond, the Charlie Daniels Band, Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats, and The Blind Boys of Alabama. Actors the caliber of Ed Asner, Della Reese, Gary Burgoff, John Amos, Frank Gorshin, Dick VanPatten, Mackensie Phillips and David Birney have enjoyed spending time in the Highlands. Bluegrass great Dr. Ralph Stanley commented from the Curfman Hall stage, “I’ve been a lot of places in my time, but I don’t think I’ve ever been treated as well as I have been treated by the fine folks here.” Along with performances for adults, the Arts Council presents programming in the local school systems that strengthen student cultural development. Local talent is nurtured through the Alleghany Highlands Orchestra, Alleghany Highlands Chorale and Alleghany Community Theatre. 16 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 Bluegrass Legend, Dr. Ralph Stanley – “ I’ve been a lot of places in my time but I don’t think I’ve ever been treated as well as I have been treated by the fine folks here.” The latter offers an annual opportunity for dozens of local children to perform with Missoula Children’s Theatre. The Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center encourages creative experience and appreciation of the visual arts. With changing gallery exhibitions and a store on site, there are always new things to experience. Exhibits feature work in a wide variety of media by Highlands and other artists. The shop sells juried handmade pottery, wood items, jewelry, stained glass, ornaments, needlework, baskets, and other fine crafts, as well as framed and unframed watercolors, oils and various types of prints. The Arts and Crafts Center also offers educational programs in the local schools, along with occasional short term workshops for the general public throughout the year. This organization also hosts professional artists-inresidence who bring various skills and create extraordinary work in the community. Appalfolks of America is yet another arts non-profit that provides opportunity for enjoyment of different types of music and theatre. The Virginia Opry and Virginia Junior Opry give local musicians, vocalists, comedians and dancers a chance to test their wings. Appalfolks also conceptualized a performance group called S.T.A.R.S. that allows developmentally challenged performers a chance to shine in the spotlight. The original home of Appalfolks was the Historic Masonic Theatre in downtown Clifton Forge. The community boasts two local amphitheatre sites. The Masonic Amphitheatre was recently constructed along Smith Creek in downtown Clifton Forge and River Rock Amphitheatre is located in the Jackson River Sports Complex in South Covington. Both offer opportunities for families to enjoy outdoor entertainment, many with free admission. Visit the links below for additional information on the ampitheatres: http://www.historicmasonictheatre.com/ the_masonic_amphitheatre_schedule_ of_events http://www.covington.va.us/ riverrockamphitheater.shtml C O M M U N I T Y Talent from Around the World Ed Asner in performance mode American Spiritual Ensemble Mccorvey Harlem Gospel Choir Tibetian Monkswit Mandala Visit the Alleghany Highlands Whether you visit for a day, weekend or longer, you’ll find many uniquely Alleghany ways to have fun. Our beautiful mountains are more than just scenery; they form a spectacular natural playground for hiking, biking, camping and hunting. Try fishing, paddling, tubing, boating or swimming on our rivers, lakes and streams. Our charming downtowns are filled with eclectic shopping, locally-owned restaurants, art galleries and historic sites. Chapman Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. 119 West Main Street Covington, VA 24426 (540) 965-4291 Serving the area since 1961 Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, Duct Cleaning, Bathroom Remodeling & More! Residential & Commercial Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 17 C O M M U N I T Y Clifton Forge School of the Arts Clifton Forge School of the Arts (CFSOTA) opened its doors to the public on January 16, 2011. It is located in a historic district in downtown Clifton Forge. It is a not-for-profit corporation owned and managed by a small group of local citizens known as The Clifton Forge Company. Its goal is to provide opportunities for better living and learning to adults and children. The School offers a wide variety of classes in painting and drawing, blacksmithing, needle-and-fiberarts, digital photography, beginning piano, flute, guitar and harp, to name a few. The acquisition of a nearby historic structure (Wholesale Grocery Company) houses a stained glass design studio and a clay pottery. Plans for a workshop in small stone sculpture are being made. Dabney S. Lancaster Community College and CFSOTA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding which opens possibilities of greater enrollment and wider exposure in the arts to area citizens. Too, the School is seeking ways to extend its services to children, to the elderly and retired, through program offerings that are free of charge and open to all. For further information, please visit the School’s web site: www.cfsota.org or send email to: cfsota@lumos.net or call (540) 862-7275. 18 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 Ben Truett working on his first stained glass project. Blues, Brews and BBQ Drumming Workshop with John Visel. Student at Collage Workshop for kids. O P P O R T U N I T Y The Natural Choice Imagine yourself working somewhere where the best of nature is just steps from your job. Where two world-class resorts are just a short drive away. Where other people travel to the region to take advantage of the lakes, rivers and biking trails. Now imagine that your company is within 600 miles of more than 40 percent of the nation’s population and more than 200,000 manufacturers. That shipping your product overseas is easy because you’re located within a foreign trade zone. That the costs of running your company – from taxes to utilities to healthcare – are lower than in many other parts of the country. That the telecommunications infrastructure is the equal of Virginia’s largest metropolitan areas, thanks to Lumos Networks (the local telecommunications provider), which is in the process of constructing a Fiber-to-thePremises network throughout the Alleghany Highlands. When completed it will provide high- speed fiber service to 4,200 homes and 400 businesses. If you live and work in Virginia’s Alleghany Highlands, no imagination is necessary. On any day you can choose from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Gathright Wildlife Management Area, Lake Moomaw, Douthat State Park and many clear mountain streams, all of which provide some of the best hunting, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing in the eastern United States. And on top of that, the world-famous Homestead and Greenbrier resorts are just 30 minutes away. Imagine growing – or starting – your company in a region that values education, training and the entrepreneurial spirit. Help is a click away through the Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation’s Business Assistance Program, available to anyone starting, expanding or sustaining a business in the Highlands. An Entrepreneur Specialist on staff can help with any and all activities associated with your business. And all services are free of charge. The program’s online virtual business incubator is a good starting point for getting answers to questions, solving problems independently and working on developing your business plan. Two excellent public school systems educate your future work force, while Dabney S. Lancaster Community College continued on page 22 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 19 G E T T I N G A R O U N D Alleghany Highlands It’s easy to get to the Alleghany Highlands. Interstate 64 runs through the region, making it an easy drive from Washington, Baltimore, Richmond and many other mid-Atlantic cities. Once you arrive, getting around the Alleghany Highlands is hassle free. Miles of quiet country roads are great for scenic drives by car or motorcycle. You can also choose to leave your car behind and arrive by train. Amtrak has arrivals and departures into downtown Clifton Forge three days a week. For a truly special weekend getaway, combine the beauty and hospitality of the Alleghany Highlands with the romance of rail travel. Fare and schedule information can be found at www.amtrak.com. The Alleghany Highlands is also easily accessible from the Roanoke Regional Airport and Greenbrier Valley Airport. 20 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 G E T T I N G A R O U N D CITY-TO-CITY DISTANCES Alleghany County has excellent access to cities and transportation routes in the Eastern U.S. Measured from Covington, some prominent destinations are: 100-200 miles: Winston-Salem, N.C.; Charleston, W. Va., Pittsburgh, Pa., Washington, D.C., Richmond, Va. 200-300 miles: Columbia, S.C., Knoxville, Tenn., Columbus, Ohio, Baltimore, Md., Norfolk/Hampton Roads, Va. 300-400 miles: Atlanta, Ga., Nashville, Tenn., Louisville, Ky., Indianapolis, Ind., Detroit, Mich., Philadelphia, Pa., New York, N.Y. 400-500 miles: Savannah, Ga. Just over 500 miles: Jacksonville, Fla. Downtown Covington: Downtown Clifton Forge: Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 21 O P P O R T U N I T Y and Bodywork. Jobs await in healthcare, business and recreational settings such as spas and nearby resorts such as The Homestead and The Greenbrier. • Forest Management Technology, which supports forestry and forest-related industries that are vital to the economy of Virginia, where 60 percent of the total land area is forested. Graduates of the program can go on to a four-year institution such as Virginia Tech or pursue a career in forestry, urban tree care or forest products. DSLCC offers the only associate degree-level Forestry program in Virginia. It features an LT300 industrial sawmill by Wood-Mizer Industrial and is accredited through the Society of American Foresters. • Wind Turbine Service Technology, the newest program, prepares students for careers in The Natural Choice continued from page 19 works with the community and area businesses to develop cutting-edge degree and training programs that educate and train students for tomorrow’s jobs and today’s high-growth careers. Some of the programs include: • Advanced Manufacturing & Packaging Technology, which features a state-of-the-art training lab that gives a student extensive, hands-on practice to prepare for a new job or advance in a current one. The area’s largest employer, MeadWestvaco, was instrumental in developing the program. • Massage Therapy, where both the Career Studies and Certificate Programs prepare students for the National Certification Examination in Therapeutic Massage PROVIDING BUILDING SOLUTIONS General Contracting & Construction Management • Residential & Commercial Construction Homestead Dairy, Warm Springs Private Residence, Eagle Rock Vacation Getaway, Millboro Duke’s Antiques, Lexington Homestead Preserve, Hot Springs Alleghany Humane Society, Low Moor Alleghany Highlands Chamber Commerce & Tourism, Covington Commonwealth Contracting Services, Inc. Ross A. Hammond, P.E. P.O. Box 303 418 Chalybeate Ave. Iron Gate, VA 25558 Office: (540) 862-5800 Cell: (540) 969-9405 Fax: (540) 862-2940 Commonwealthcontractingservices.com 22 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 O P P O R T U N I T Y Aerial view of the Alleghany Regional Commerce Center. The Alleghany Highlands YMCA is located on the bottom left. the growing alternative energy sector. The school recently erected a working 5.2 kW (kilowatt), three-blade wind turbine tower and climbing tower, as well as a solar power training system. • The college offers an associate’s degree in nursing, from which students can take the national exam to become a registered nurse, or continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s degree. DSLCC has articulation agreements with Jefferson College of Health Sciences and Old Dominion University. Finally, imagine living in a community where the oldest and largest employer is annually included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, given for its longstanding commitment to corporate environmental responsibility. Packaging giant MeadWestvaco, which has been in the Alleghany Highlands for more than 100 years, is investing $285 million to construct a new, state-of-the-art biomass boiler and upgrade the associated power infrastructure at its Covington mill. This boiler will create energy by utilizing renewable biomass Phillip M. Bowen, President/Owner 1201 Commerce Center Drive Covington, Virginia 24426 Office Phone: 540-862-4200 Toll Free: 866-301-0422 Fax Number: 540-862-4204 Email: info@jenfabinc.com www.jenfabinc.com such as tree bark, wood residues often left behind from logging operations and water treatment plant residuals. The project enables the mill to increase its level of energy self-sufficiency while dramatically decreasing its carbon footprint. Dabney Lancaster’s wind turbine and MeadWestvaco’s biomass boiler are just two examples of the entrepreneurial spirit and forward thinking that is making the Alleghany Highlands a gem that won’t remain hidden for very long. To learn more about locating or starting a business in the Alleghany Highlands, contact David Kleppinger at the Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation at dave@ahedc.com. www.ahedc. com. Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 23 H E A L T H Y L I V I N G LewisGale Hospital Alleghany: Expanding Services to Meet the Community’s Needs As the leading healthcare provider in the Alleghany Highlands, LewisGale Hospital Alleghany is continually looking for opportunities to expand its services and enhance the quality of care it provides. The hospital is already recognized by The Joint Commission as one of the nation’s top performers for surgical and pneumonia care. The hospital is among only 405 hospitals named in the commission’s first-time report for excelling on key quality measures proven to give patients the best outcomes. Most recently, the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism awarded the hospital its Business of the Year Award for 2011. “We are committed to putting the needs of our patients first, from providing compassionate care to offering new treatments and services to improve their health 24 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 LewisGale Hospital Alleghany is the leading healtcare provider in the Alleghany Highlands. outcomes,” said Greg Madsen, CEO, LewisGale Hospital Alleghany. The new Senior Transitions Unit is just one example of the hospital’s pledge to meet the healthcare needs of the community it serves. With the Alleghany Highlands’ rapidly growing senior population, the hospital recognized there was a significant need for behavioral health services for this age group. H E A L T H Y In September 2011, Senior Transitions opened its doors with a 15-bed inpatient specialty unit that now serves as a regional center for seniors. This specialized care involves treating their mental health challenges and medical conditions at the same time. The program primarily serves patients 55 and older with emotional and behavioral health issues such as memory problems, mood disorders, and anxiety and psychotic disorders. “We treat our patients like members of our own family,” said Program Director Mary Lavery-Fisher, R.N., M.S.N, C.S.N.P, C.N.S. “Our multi-disciplinary team provides personalized, loving care to help patients return to their optimal level of functioning.” The Senior Transitions team consists of more than 25 employees including two physicians, Hasnain Maqsood, M.D., and Pradip Koirala, M.D., who serves as the Medical Director. Over the past several months, the unit has served more than 70 patients. Some patients have traveled from as far away as Tidewater, Grundy and Northern Virginia. Specialized care is also coming to the Emergency Department at LewisGale Hospital Alleghany. This spring the hospital will L I V I N G The Senior Transitions Sunroom. introduce Fast Track ER. This new service is targeted to patients who need immediate attention for a minor medical emergency such as a simple fracture, sore throat, ear infection or laceration. Based on the severity of the patient’s condition, he or she may be placed in the Fast Track ER, a separate area within the emergency department with its own exam room. “Fast Track ER will help us more continued on page 26 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 25 H E A L T H Y L I V I N G LewisGale Hospital Alleghany continued from page 25 efficiently care for patients who come to our emergency department for care,” said Leslie Broughman, R.N., B.S.N., Emergency Department Director. “Our goal is to get patients with more minor medical conditions treated and out the door within 60 minutes of arriving.” Fast Track ER opened in late April and is available from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. From new services to new technology, the hospital is also adding digital mammography to better meet the needs of its patients. Women now have access to this new imaging option at LewisGale Women’s Center Alleghany. Screenings performed with digital mammography have several advantages for patients including quicker exams with realtime images that can be displayed in seconds. Digital mammograms take as little as half the time of film. The images are also clear and offer a better view of the breast, especially near the skin line, chest wall and in women with dense breast tissue. In addition, if a doctor needs a second opinion or if patients need to be transferred to LewisGale Breast Center Salem for more extensive imaging services, their digital mammogram can be shared electronically to make sure they get the most accurate diagnosis as quickly as possible. That is one of the benefits on-site radiologist Mary Ella Zelenik, M.D., is most looking forward to with digital mammography. She believes with the new technology the hospital will see an increase in the number of women coming in to get their mammograms. In general, women should begin getting yearly mammograms at the age of 40. “It’s very unusual to see an advancedstage breast cancer anymore in women who get regular mammograms,” said Zelenik. “Early detection is very important and can save lives.” “It’s all about providing our patients with high-quality healthcare,” said Madsen. “We’re honored that the chamber of commerce and the community recognize the difference we’re making every day in the Alleghany Highlands to improve lives.” As part of LewisGale Regional Health System, patients who come to the hospital for care also have access to the entire healthcare network which includes four hospitals, six 26 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 outpatient centers, two cancer centers and nearly 700 employed and independent physicians of every discipline imaginable. To learn more about SENIOR TRANSITIONS or to refer a patient, call 540-862-6950 during normal business hours, and 1-800-541-9992 after 5 p.m. and on the weekends. To schedule a MAMMOGRAM, call 540-862-6878. Same- and/or next-day appointments are often available. H E A L T H Y L I V I N G THE WOODLANDS, Clifton Forge In January 2011, AHFC moved to a modern facility in Covington known locally as the Adrales Medical Building. Since its inception, the Clinic has had several temporary homes, none of which really met its needs. The Board of Directors celebrated the acquisition of their new home with an official opening and ribbon cutting on March 17, 2011. The Clinic is staffed by four doctors who volunteer their time, one physician assistant, two nurses, one pharmacy assistant, six nurse volunteers, and other community volunteers. Ninety percent (90%) of medical services are provided by these medically trained and licensed volunteers. This medical team provides acute care; diagnosis and treatment of chronic disease; referrals for lab work, x-rays, local and out-of-area specialists; care management; and access to prescription medicines. There are special programs for women living with cancer risks, patients with TB, and those in need of mental health services. The Clinic looks forward to providing access to telemedicine that would allow for real time consultations with specialists who are out of the area. Another challenge the Clinic confronts is how to provide dental services for AHFC patients. A Board of Directors, composed of concerned citizens from Alleghany and Bath Counties and the city of Covington, oversees the Clinic. Funds for the operation are raised locally through events organized by the Board. AHFC is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization and welcomes charitable contributions from private citizens, churches, civic groups, local governments and businesses. For every dollar donated to the clinic, patients receive $15 in medical care. Since the clinic’s inception, the Alleghany Foundation has been the primary funder of the Alleghany Highlands Free Clinic. THE GLEBE, Daleville The Glebe, Southwest Virginia’s premier modern example of a continuous-care retirement community, is located adjacent to Alleghany County in Daleville. Although in a small town environment, practically any service or form of entertainment is just minutes away. Life at The Glebe circulates around the complex’s Community Center, which offers residents a full-service branch bank, a business center with computers, fax and copiers; mail area, convenience store, beauty/barber salon, a library, the Depot Café, game room and art studio. The Glebe has both assisted living and nursing centers, each comprised of 32 private residences with supportive care. Its Health Care Center can provide health maintenance services, nutritional counseling, physical therapy and scheduled physician visits. All health services are under one roof. A few moments walk from the Community Center, The Glebe’s Fitness Center contains stateof-the-art exercise equipment. Lifelong learning programs also are scheduled at The Glebe by nearby Hollins University. To learn more about The Glebe, visit www.theglebe.org or call 540-591-2200. The Woodlands is a non-medical, dually-certified skilled nursing facility offering both onsite and offsite services. Speech/ language pathology services, dental services, podiatry, mental health, social work, nursing, pharmacy and physician services are among those offered onsite. Diagnostic x-ray services are provided offsite. The facility has 60 beds and participates in both Medicare and Medicaid programs. It is staffed by registered and licensed practical nurses, as well as dietary and housekeeping staff. For more information on The Woodlands, call 540-863-4096. SCOTT HILL RETIREMENT COMMUNITY, Clifton Forge Independent living is the theme for those 62 and older and/or disabled at Scott Hill Retirement Community. Residents of its 140 apartment units enjoy a beauty/barber shop, onsite dining, transportation, no maintenance and two service coordinators to help residents locate any other service needed. The facility has programs and activities for residents and often invites the community to share in the fun. It also has podiatric care and a monthly diabetes clinic. For more information, call 540-862-5741, or visit www. scotthillapartments.org HIGHLAND HOUSE, Clifton Forge Highland House assisted living facility has a capacity of 28 residents. It offers semi-private and private rooms, either for long-term care or for respite care. Residents get meals and have access to daily activities, nursing and pharmacy services, and van transportation to shopping, movies or doctor’s appointments. A physician is available for house calls at the facility. To learn more about Highland House, call 540-862-4271 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 27 H E A L T H Y L I V I N G BRIAN CENTER, Low Moor Brian Center Rehabilitation and Nursing Care is a Kissito Health Care property serving Alleghany, Augusta, Botetourt and Rockbridge counties in Virginia and Greenbrier County in West Virginia. The Center’s nursing department oversees a 60-bed certified facility that provides postsurgical care, skilled nursing, IV therapy, tube feedings, pain Rehab patient works out at the Brian Center management, wound management, respite care and a variety of other medical services. Brian Center expanded in mid-2008 to include a new Post Acute Rehabilitation Center, which offers specialty short-term care for complex medical needs in a setting of state-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment and elegant private rooms. PARC offers a number of amenities for the patient such as recreational and therapeutic activities, as well as fine dining, and provides a separate entry for easy access to their accommodations. More information is available at www.briancenteralleghany.org or call 540-862-3610 Housekeeping, running errands, grocery shopping, meal preparation, assist to appointments and companionship 28 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 L E A R N The Covington City School Division serves approximately 900 students who attend three schools. The division includes Edgemont Primary (which serves Early Head Start, Head Start, and grades PK-3), Jeter-Watson Intermediate (which serves grades 4-7), and Covington High School (which serves grades 8 through 12). Jackson River Technical Center, operated jointly by Covington City and Alleghany County, provides career and technical education to students of Covington High School and provides occupational training and retraining, special interest classes, and high school opportunities to area adults. Covington’s youngest students begin elementary school with a pre-kindergarten program designed to meet the academic, physical, emotional, and social needs of the four-year old. The program in grades K through 3 is designed to develop strong basic skills in reading, language arts, math, health, science, social studies, physical education, music and technology. Edgemont Primary houses a stateof-the- art computer lab, i-pod classroom, and library. Edgemont Primary School was previously selected to receive a Title I Distinguished School Award and a Federal Blue Ribbon Schools’ Award from the Virginia Department of Education. Edgemont is a fully- accredited school. The Intermediate school curriculum offers opportunities for expanding knowledge and discovering individual abilities while providing an effective transition from the selfcontained elementary school classroom to the departmentalized high school. The Intermediate school has approximately 120 computer workstations for its students and an after-school remediation and enrichment program that focuses upon strengthening/challenging academic skills. It also has a Spanish exploratory and keyboarding exploratory class that serves students in grades four through seven. Edgemont Primary and JeterWatson Intermediate schools are “two schools under one roof”. They are situated on a 58-acre campus. Both schools have state-of-the-art technology, which includes interactive SmartBoards in every classroom, a teacher amplification system in each classroom, digital media housing/streaming, a shared library, cafeteria, and auditorium. Covington High School is a building listed on the National and State Historic Registries. At the high school level, students follow concentrated programs of study in academic and technical fields. More than three-fourths of a student’s courses are determined by state requirements for graduation. The remainder may be selected from a variety of academic, technical, or fine arts courses. Covington High School students, if interested in the field of education, have a chance to participate in the school’s Virginia Teachers for Tomorrow (VTT) program. As a result of this successful program, The Book Club presents “Horton Hears a Who” High School Spirit Students rise to “Rachel’s Challenge” Students from Jeter-Watson Intermediate School have Cougar Pride Covington City hired one of the first VTT students as an elementary teacher. Covington High School offers many dual enrollment and AP courses in its curriculum. Covington City has the advantage continued on page 30 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 29 L E A R N Shaping the Future continued from page 29 of being a small school division. Its small schools offer the intimate and safe environment that is so important to children. Because of the low teacher- pupil ratio, teachers are more able to provide individualized instruction to its students. One hundred percent of Covington City’s teachers are fully licensed. Forty-seven percent of Covington’s faculty members have a master’s degree and two teachers have attained National Board Certification. One hundred percent of Covington’s instructional aides meet “highly qualified” requirements under No Child Left Behind. Covington City Public Schools are dedicated to ensuring student success. We are very proud to have our schools filled with teachers, principals, and support staff, who regularly update their skills and participate in training to help them meet the needs of all students. Our mission is: “Covington City Public Schools are committed to ‘shaping the future’ by ensuring that each student is a valued individual with unique characteristics and needs, who can learn when actively engaged in a positive environment of mutual respect, where student learning is a priority.” Covington High School offers many career and technical courses on its campus. Academically advanced students in the area may apply to attend Jackson River Governor’s School to gain additional credits toward their college major. Career and technical students can attend Jackson River Technical Center to enhance their education through a variety of career and technical offerings. 30 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 “Mountain View 3rd graders enjoy Field Day, while wearing their SOL motivational t-shirts.” The Alleghany County Public Schools operate seven schools; a high school, a middle school and five elementary schools. All seven schools are fully accredited by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Challenging curricula is found throughout the school division from Junior Kindergarten through twelfth grade. The school division operates a two tier kindergarten program. As a result, students who turn five between October 1 and December 31 may attend school. At the other end of the educational continuum students have access to college credit courses and career and technical education. More than a third of the middle school students area enrolled in the instrumental music program. For the 2011-2012 school year, 100% of our teachers were highly qualified, and six teachers have earned national board certification. The school system has been recognized in recent years by the Virginia Music Educators Association, the Virginia Technology Education Association’s children’s Engineering Convention, the Virginia Art Education Association, the Virginia Association of School Superintendents, the Virginia Association of the Elementary School Principals, and the Blue Ridge Public Relations Association. Band draws 1in 5 students Mountaineers football team Chain of kindness in honor of “Rachel’s Challenge.” L E A R N DSLCC at 50 Refl eflecting on a Proud Past, Anticipating a Promising Future Dabney S. Lancaster Community College is committed to, and guided by, one mission--to provide accessible and affordable opportunities for the extension of knowledge, skills and personal enrichment. Throughout its long, rich history, the College has developed a wide array of programs and services to fulfill that mission and serve the residents of its service area—Alleghany County, Bath County, Botetourt (northern portion) County and Rockbridge County. Thousands of students have attended DSLCC to earn an associate degree or certificate, or to complete short-term training, attend youth camp, join in an activity or special event, or take a non credit class on a topic of special interest. March, 2012 officially marked the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of the institution by Virginia’s General Assembly in March, 1962. Fifty years is a long time, but for those who excitedly seek new learning opportunities and embrace changes in technology, it was the chance to step back and reflect on the past but also envision an even bigger and brighter future. Administrators, faculty and staff are excited to share accomplishments and look forward to the privilege of serving many more students in the years ahead. The Clifton Forge campus looks markedly different than it did decades ago. Renovated and newly-added spaces in Scott and Warren Halls make a definite statement, but respect the overall style of existing facilities and blend in well with the beautifully landscaped grounds. During the last visit by a team sent to DSLCC for its accreditation review, the College was commended for the beauty of its campus. DSLCC embraces its role as a supporter of economic growth and development. Outstanding facilities, equipment and the latest technologies are available for students preparing for the workforce and as resources for employers who are concerned with knowledge and skills for incumbent and future employees. College administrators are eager to assist local governments and economic development officials who meet with current and future employers concerned with workforce development. Walking around the campus, visitors will see many ways in which DSLCC serves the community. The Library is open for study, research and recreational reading. Young and old alike may be seen using the grounds—from youth practicing baseball to seniors walking for daily exercise. Interior spaces hold students taking classes, but meetings of local employers, elected officials or civic groups may fill other rooms on campus at the same time. Runners follow a path through the woods and fishermen try their luck in the Jackson River. Recent additions to the lower field near the sawmill—a climbing tower and a wind turbine—are reminders that local, state and national issues change and the College’s programs of study must reflect those changes with new courses and programs of study continually under development to prepare students for emerging jobs. From nurses to teachers to manufacturing technicians to business continued on page 32 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 31 L E A R N DSLCC at 50 continued from page 31 owners to police officers, the region is filled with those who have studied at the College. Many area residents are DSLCC graduates or have friends, neighbors, or co-workers who attended since the opening of the institution in the fall of 1964. Dabney S. Lancaster Community College takes its name very seriously. Its programs and services are geared for students of this community, preparing them for a career and making positive contributions to society. Business leaders and other stakeholders consider DSLCC a catalyst for change and appreciate the value it brings to the region. “We welcome the opportunity to touch lives,” reflected DSLCC’s president, Dr. Richard Teaff, who began leading the institution in July, 1995. “We look forward to meeting our new students at the start of each semester with a fresh perspective on how we can best serve them and assist them in meeting their personal and occupational goals. My team and I consider it a privilege to be here for them, and we appreciate their decision to attend DSLCC. It is appropriate that we take the time to recall the thousands of individuals who have studied here and those who led the institution since its founding in 1962. One can only wonder what the next 50 years will bring!” DSLCC TIME CAPSULE –Elevenyear-old Wils Vosteen of Clifton Forge drops an item into a time capsule that was dedicated during a ceremony commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of Dabney S. Lancaster Community College. The capsule, which will be opened again in March of 2037, will be buried near Scott Hall on the DSLCC campus. Renovations to Scott Hall were completed recently and include a remodeled library and space for the Achievement Center, which houses a federally funded student support services program. Classroom spaces were also updated. An estimated 200 guests attended the afternoon celebration. Wils’ father, Paul, is a member of the Information Technology staff at DSLCC. 50TH ANNIVERSARY TREE PLANTING – Members of the Founders Day 50th Anniversary Committee at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College and other officials gather to plant a commemorative maple tree outside the newly renovated Warren Hall (in background, at right) on the DSLCC Clifton Forge campus March 18. Warren Hall now includes a bright new lobby, faculty and staff offices, a tiered classroom to accommodate as many as 90 people, as well as computer labs outfitted with the latest technology. Handling the shovels were, from left: Tondalaya VanLear, Assistant Professor of English and Advisor for Education (co-chair of the 50th Anniversary Committee); Dr. John Backels, president of DSLCC from 1969-95; DSLCC President Dr. Richard Teaff; and Richard Crowder, president of the DSLCC Educational Foundation Board. An estimated 200 guests attended the afternoon festivities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the College. 32 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 Wind Turbine at DLSCC. New school buildings featuring 21st century technology make us one of the most advanced school systems in the country, while our low pupil-teacher ratio and safe classrooms allow students to receive the attention they deserve. It’s this commitment to academic excellence that has earned us full accreditation by the Commonwealth of Virginia. To find out more about our educational programs or employment opportunities, call 540/863-1800 or visit us at www.alleghany.k12.va.us. Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 33 R E C R E A T I O N Each Saturday evening June through August live music is provided for park patrons. Jackson River Recreation Sport Complex The Jackson River Recreation Sport Complex is located at 870 Edgemont Drive, Covington, VA. The Sport Complex provides multi-recreational opportunities for hundreds of area and out-of-town residents. Recreation tourism is important to the economy of the Alleghany Highlands. Beginning the first weekend in March through the second weekend in November the Sport Complex plays host to scheduled travel ball tournaments. It works with national organizations in order to schedule adult slow pitch softball, girl’s fastpitch softball and boy’s baseball tournaments. 34 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 These weekend tournaments contribute immensely to lodging, food and retail businesses. On any given weekend, teams travel 2 – 3 hours to our community and we regularly have teams from the Mid-Atlantic region. In addition, it works with local high schools to schedule district and regional tournaments, again events that contribute to the local economy. Visiting teams have been very complimentary of the athletic fields, facilities and the beauty of the community. The park complex has truly aided the quality of life for residents in the Alleghany Highlands. Beginning at sunrise with people walking its road to beyond sunset with sporting activities, the complex has become a “gathering spot” for multiple activities. Two shelters and a gazebo provide family gatherings for birthdays, reunions and other special occasions. Basketball and tennis courts are generally full with R E C R E A T I O N people enjoying these types of sport activities. The park offers many acres of open turf areas for kite flying, frisbee throwing and general sporting activities as well as accommodating a youth soccer program with about 20 fields. Soccer has become very popular and the Sport Complex is beginning to entertain travel soccer tournaments. The development of the River Rock Amphitheatre has been a welcomed addition to the complex. Each Saturday evening, June through August, live music is provided for park patrons. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and listen to artists performing gospel, country, bluegrass and rock-n-roll. This structure is also used by area organizations such as the Relay for Life program, The playground area is inviting to many age groups of children and offers parents and grandparents bench seating to enjoy watching their children play. July 4th celebration, Streetscene and local labor unions. The Jackson River Recreation Sport Complex is located in a very natural setting and a concentrated effort has been made to maintain this passive setting while offering a multitude of recreation activities. All buildings and play equipment blend in well with the parks natural environment. The sport complex has been a wonderful addition to the city park programs and facilities. Seven other neighborhood parks provide folks with recreational continued on page 36 Garth Newel Music Center At the Garth Newel Music Center in Hot Springs, Virginia, music is the key that unlocks a world of experience. From classical to jazz and more, inspired music-making is just the beginning. Shared gourmet meals, the exquisite Bath County setting, and some of the most interesting people you’ll ever meet make each visit a one-of-a-kind experience. Archduke Weekend Early May Memorial Day Weekend Late May Virginia Blues & Jazz Festival June Summer Chamber Music Festival June – September Garth Newel Piano Quartet Teresa Ling, violin; Tobias Werner, cello Evelyn Grau, viola; Misuzu Tanaka, piano Fall Foliage Music Holidays October Thanksgiving and New Year’s Music Holidays 540.839.5018 www.garthnewel.org Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 35 R E C R E A T I O N Jackson River continued from page 35 opportunities in basically their own back yard. A new municipal pool and city baseball/football stadium compliment the park system as well. All of the parks provide multiple recreation opportunities for residents and are well kept and maintained by the park staff. Also planned is additional recreation opportunities at the sport complex and include a golf driving range, batting cages and a dog park. It is a hope some day to have a walking trail around the entire park that follows alongside the scenic Jackson River and accesses the Jamison Commerce Center by a foot bridge across the river. Visit this community and understand why it is the Mountain Playground of Virginia. Proudly promoting the Alleghany Highlands Creating compelling and memorable brands in the tourism, hospitality and foodservice industries. www.mikulaharris.com 36 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 Complex Amenities • 5 lighted softball fields • Basketball courts • Lighted tennis courts • Soccer fields • Playground equipment • Walking area • Picnic areas - 2 covered shelters • Restroom facilities • Press box • 2 concessions • River Rock Amphitheatre R E C R E A T I O N Mother Nature’s Playground Douthat is one of the original six Virginia State Parks that opened June 15, 1936. The initial 1,920 acres of the present-day park was donated by the Douthat Land Company, a consortium of Virginia businessmen. The rest of the land was purchased with a portion of the $50,000 in funds allocated by the General Assembly in 1933 for park land acquisition. The establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) as part of the emergency Conservation Works by President Roosevelt in 1933 provided the means for development of the parks. An estimated 600 men lived and worked at the three camps responsible for building Douthat’s facilities. Between 1933 and 1942, these CCC men cleared trails, built a dam and spillway, cabins, a restaurant, an information center, superintendent’s residence, swimming beach, picnic areas and maintenance building, hinges, as well as hand-wrought iron hardware, light fixtures and door and shutter latches. The man-made and natural features of the park have remained virtually unchanged since construction. In 1986, the 50th anniversary of Douthat State Park and the Canoeing the 50 acre lake is one of many adventures offered at the park. Virginia State Park System, Douthat was recognized as a Nationally Registered Historic District. In 1998, Douthat won the Virginia Lakes and Watersheds Association award for best operated and maintained dam for its Douthat Lake Dam. In 1999, Douthat received the Centennial Medallion from the American Society of Landscape Architects. Douthat State Park is nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, straddling Bath and Alleghany counties, and features some of Virginia’s most outstanding scenery. In addition, a 50-acre lake allows swimming, boating and seasonal trout fishing. Douthat offers 35 different cabins and four campgrounds within the park for overnight guests. Choose from a one-room cabin all the way up to a six-bedroom lodge. Bring your horse and camp at the newly renovated Beaver Dam Equestrian Campground. Three campgrounds have water and electric hookups. The new Whispering Pines Campground features 23 sites and is located at the southern entrance of the park. This campground opened April 2012 and offers the Royal Canin Playground just a stroll away. Lakeside Campground has a lake-front view with 19 sites. The beach area at Douthat offers seasonal swimming in the 50-acre lake starting Memorial Day to Labor Day. There is a boathouse, open from the first Saturday in April through the end of October, offering: jonboats with and without electric motors, canoes, paddleboats, hydrobikes and funyaks to rent. A boat launch ramp is available for guests with their own non-gasoline powered boat. No launching fees are charged, but boats must be moored in designated areas. continued on page 38 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 37 R E C R E A T I O N continued from page 37 Douthat State Park does offer yearround boat storage for a fee. There are more than 40 miles of wooded hiking trails to choose from throughout the year, ranging from easy to difficult. Many park trails are open to mountain bikers and equestrian users. Douthat offers a wide variety of special events and activities throughout the year such as: Easter weekend in April, the Douthat Lake Run Car Show in May, Fourth of July activities, Labor Day weekend activities in September, and Apple Day with an Arts and Crafts Fair in October. Each week during the summer season, the park offers Saturday Evening Showcases, featuring musical groups, magic acts 38 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 or guest speakers. Environmental education programs are also offered during the school year and throughout the summer months at the park. The park staff members visit local schools in the six counties surrounding the park. These programs are also available to scout groups, 4-H groups, civic organizations, church groups, and senior groups. Stop by the park’s Nature’s Outpost located at the beach area to learn about plants and animals within the park boundaries. Douthat Lakeview Restaurant, an original Civilian Conservation Corps facility, is a full-service restaurant that overlooks the lake and has recently been renovated. Douthat offers 35 different cabins and four campgrounds for overnight accommodations with Mother Nature. R E C R E A T I O N The beautiful 50 acre lake at Douthat makes every season shine. It features a glass enclosed porch overlooking the lake, and has central heat and air. The restaurant is open on weekends from the first Saturday in April through Memorial Day. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sundays from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Labor Day through October, the restaurant is open weekends only. It is also available year-round for special catering needs. Adjacent to the restaurant is a camp store with convenience items, camping goods and fishing necessities. It’s open from the first Saturday in April through October 31. The gift shop, located in the main office complex, opens at 8 a.m. each morning and closes at 8 p.m. The shop offers gifts, crafts, books and clothing for your selection. Come visit Douthat State Park and the wide variety of amenities offered throughout the park. Whether it’s for the day or the week, let Douthat be your 4,000 acre backyard. GOLF Alleghany Golf Course: 111 E. Country Club Lane Covington 540-863-4653 • 9-hole public course Cliftondale Country Club: 2707 Longdale Furnace Rd. Clifton Forge 540-862-2081 • 9-hole public course Cliff View Golf Club & Inn: 410 Friels Dr. Covington 540-962-2200 • 18-hole public course The Greenbrier: 300 W. Main St. White Sulpher Springs, WV 24986 888-326-9062 • www.greenbrier.com • Four 18-hole championship courses: The Old White, The Greenbrier, The Meadows, and The Snead The Homestead: 7696 Sam Snead Highway Hot Springs, VA 24445 540-839-1766 • www.thehomestead.com • Three 18-hole championship courses: The Cascades Course, The Old Course and the Lower Cascades Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 39 RESOURCE GUIDE EMERGENCY/MEDICAL INCASE OF EMERGENCY, DIAL 911 Alleghany County Sheriff City of Covington Police Department Town of Clifton Forge Police Department 965-1770 965-6333 863-2513 HOSPITALS LewisGale at Alleghany 862-6011 ALLEGHANY COUNTY Animal Control Building Official Commissioner of the Revenue County Administrator Parks & Recreation Senior Services Planning/Zoning Voter Registration 965-1770 863-6650 863-6640 863-6600 863-6622 863-6621 863-6650 965-1690 TOWN OF CLIFTON FORGE Animal Control Manager’s Office Courthouse Fire Dept. Administration Public Works Voter Registration 863-2513 863-2501 863-2516 863-2517 965-1690 CITY OF COVINGTON Engineer City Hall City Manager Commissioner of the Revenue Parks & Recreation Animal Control Public Works Voter Registration 965-6345 965-6300 965-6350 965-6360 965-6333 965-6322 965-6380 TOWN OF IRON GATE Town Hall Fire Department 862-0770 862-5700 LIBRARIES Charles P. Jones Memorial Library Clifton Forge Public Library Dabney S. Lancaster Community College 962-3321 863-2519 863-2864 NEWSPAPER Virginian Review 962-2121 DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES Covington Customer Service Center 1-804-497-7100 UTILITIES – GAS & ELECTRIC Dominion Columbia Gas of Virginia Whiting-Jamison Oil AmeriGas Propane Dixie Gas & Oil Corp. 1-888-667-3000 1-800-543-8911 962-1176 862-4148 962-6336 CABLE/INTERNET Shentel Lumos 40 1-800-SHENTEL or 962-6916 1-800-320-6144 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 TELEPHONE/WIRELESS (W) Ntelos (w) Verizon (w) U.S.Cellular (w) Lumos 1-877-468-3567 or 965-2255 1-800-564-0999 or 962-7018 1-888-944-9400 or 965-1152 800-320-6144 WATER & SEWAGE Alleghany County City of Covington Town of Clifton Forge 863-6650 965-6322 863-2517 COMMERCIAL AIR SERVICE Roanoke Regional Service www.roanokeregionalairport.com Allegiant Air Delta/KLM United U.S. Airways 702-505-8888 800-221-1212 800-864-8331 800-428-4322 GENERAL AVIATION SERVICE Greenbrier Valley Airport 304-645-3961 RAILROADS AMTRAK CSX Norfolk Southern 800-872-7245 800-832-6460 800-635-5768 COORDINATED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Ride Solutions Mountain Express (RADAR) 866-424-3334 800-964-5707 362-1999 CAR RENTALS Enterprise TAXI/SHUTTLE SERVICE Lewis Lloyd, Inc. Lugar’s Taxi Precious Cargo Shuttle Service 965-7698 965-4741 962-8294 962-8263 or 1-877-465-6130 OVERNIGHT PACKAGE DELIVERY Federal Express UPS KENNELS Pampered Pets Inc. Shady Lane Kennel OTHER SERVICE NUMBERS State Police Career Information Consumer Protection Hotline Poison Control Federal Bureau of Investigations Virginia Crime Stoppers Alcohol 24-Hour Helpline Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline Virginia Missing Children Runaway Hotline Medical Assistance Services Hot Line Safehome Systems I-64 and I-81 Traffic and Travel Info. 800-463-3339 800-742-5877 965-7487 862-5857 800-542-5959 800-542-5870 800-552-9963 800-222-1222 804-261-1044 800-322-2017 800-821-4357 800-522-7096 800-843-5678 800-621-4000 800-552-8627 965-3237 800-578-4111 CHURCHES-VARIOUS DENOMINATIONS Please refer to the Yellow Pages for a complete listing or visit the Chamber’s website at www.ahchamber.com HOSPITALITY GUIDE BED & BREAKFAST INNS Cliff View Gold Club & Inn 410 Friels Dr. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-2200 888-849-2200 The Red Lantern Inn 314 Jefferson St. Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-862-2027 Kings Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast 8883 Sam Snead Highway Hot Springs, VA 24445 540-839-3134 RESORTS The Homestead 1766 Homestead Dr. Hot Springs, VA 24445 540-839-1766 866-658-5576 HOTELS/MOTELS America’s Best Value Inn 908 Valley Ridge Rd. (Exit 16, I64) Covington, VA 24426 540-962-7600 888-315-2378 Douthat State Park 14239 Douthat State Park Rd. (Exit 27, I64) Millboro, VA 24460 540-862-8100 1-800-933-PARK Morris Hill Campground State Rt. 605 (Exits 10, 14 or 16, I64 to Lake Moomaw) Covington, VA 24426 540-962-2214 877-444-6777 RESTAURANTS The Buckhorne Country Store 3508 Douthat Rd. Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-862-4502 877-301-3817 Burger King 900 Valley Ridge Rd. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-0319 Cat& Owl Steak & Seafood House 110 Karnes Rd. Low Moor, VA 24457 540-862-5808 The Club Car Shop & Deli 525 Main Street Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-862-0777 Cucci’s Pizzeria 562 E. Madison Ave. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-3964 Best Western 820 E. Madison Ave. (Exit 16, I64) Covington, VA 24426 540-962-4951 800-937-8376 Douthat Lakeview Restaurant Douthat State Park Rd. Millboro, VA 24460 540-862-8111 Fudge Street Café & Banquet Center 109 E. Fudge St. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-4700 Compare Inn 203 Interstate Drive (Exit 16, I64) Covington, VA 24426 540-962-2141 877-485-7268 Golden Arrow Plaza 709 Coleman St. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-6787 Oak Tree Inn 123 Westvaco Rd. (Exit 21, I64) Low Moor, VA 24457 540-862-0090 Heirlooms of Clifton Forge 429 E. Rideway St. Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-862-4438 Quality Inn 429 W. Main Street Covington, VA 24426 540-962-5888 1-800-4CHOICE Jack Mason’s Tavern 400 E. Ridgeway St. Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-862-5624 CAMPGROUNDS The Buckhorne Family Campground 3508 Douthat Rd. (exit 27, I64) Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-862-4502 877-301-3817 The Main Street Shoppe 352 W. Main St. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-3377 McDonald’s 100 Mallow Mall Covington, VA 24426 540-962-5660 Michael’s New York Style Pizza 127 E. Prospect St. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-8500 Mountain View Restaurant & Cliffhangers Lounge 820 E. Madison St. Covington, VA 24426 540-965-4800 Penny’s Diner 123 Westvaco Rd. Low Moor, VA 24457 540-965-0090 San Juan Mexican Restaurant 1005 Valley Ridge Rd. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-5450 The Red Caboose 610 Main St. Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-865-0246 Vic’s Family Restaurant 435 E. Ridgeway St. Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-862-1620 Vic’s Pizza Express 501 Market St. Iron Gate, VA 24448 540-862-0197 Wendy’s 1310 S. Craig Ave. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-6400 Western Sizzlin 912 Valley Ridge Rd. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-4991 Kentucky Fried Chicken 810 S. Craig Ave. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-3344 Long John Silver’s 810 S. Craig Ave. Covington, VA 24426 540-962-3344 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 41 Alleghany Highlands Annual Events JANUARY • Broadway Performances, contact the Alleghany Highlands Arts Council at 540-962-6220 FEBRUARY • George Washington Train Show in Clifton Forge, call 540-862-2210 MARCH • Chamber Dinner – The Homestead • Art of Chocolate Festival, fundraiser for the Alleghany Highlands Arts & Crafts Center; Dabney S. Lancaster Community College’s Moomaw Center, call 540-862- 4447 • Spring Craft Show, held at Clifton Forge Middle School, call 540-965-3351 • Clifton Forge Easter Egg Hunt & Parade • Covington Easter Egg Hunt & Parade • Douthat State Park Easter Egg Hunt & Activities (always held the Saturday before Easter) APRIL • Kid’s Fishing Day at Boy’s Home in Covington • Alleghany Highlands Orchestra Spring Performance, call 540-962-6220 MAY • Magic in the Mountains, held in Clifton Forge, call 540-862-2000 • Railroad Heritage Festival, held at the C&O Railway Heritage Center in Clifton Forge, call 540-862-2210 • Bike Rodeo & Kids Fun Day; held at Covington City Park, contact Parks & Recreation 863-6622 or 965-6360 • Middle Mountain Momma, mountain bike race held at Douthat State Park, call 540-529-0462 • Alleghany Highlands Triathlon; run, kayak & bike event, call 540-962- 9622 • Douthat Lake Run Cruise In & Car Show, held at Douthat State Park, call 540-862-8100 • Clifton Forge Farmers Market; held May – October and open on Friday, call 540-862-2000 • Covington Farmer’s Market; held May-October and open Wednesday & Saturday, call 540-691-4769 • Covington Lumberjacks Baseball; 42 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 Valley League baseball in the summer months, www.lumberjackbaseball.com • Alleghany Highlands Chorale Concert, call 540-962-6220 JUNE • Fishing for Kids & Clean the Bay Day; held at Douthat State Park, call 540-862-8100 • Senior Fishing Day at Boys’ Home in Covington • Rock the Block; outdoor concert event held in Covington, sponsored by Olde Town Covington • Cork & Pork Festival; barbeque competition and wine tasting in downtown Covington, call 540-960-1532 • Arts Legacy Awards Presentation, call 540-962-6220 JULY • Fourth of July Activities held in downtown Clifton Forge, Covington(Jackson RiverSports Complex) and Douthat State Park • Gran Fondo Cycling Festival; 3 courses held throughout the Alleghany Highlands, call 540-962-2178 • Rock the Block; outdoor concert event held in Covington, sponsored by Olde Town Covington AUGUST • Street Scene; held in Covington and sponsored by Kars Unlimited, call 540-965-0058 • Chamber Classic Golf Tournament, call 540-962-2178 • Rock the Block; outdoor concert event held in Covington, sponsored by Olde Town Covington SEPTEMBER • Labor Day Parade in Covington, with Labor Day Activities held at Jackson River Sports Complex • Labor Day Weekend Activities; last chance before the beach at Douthat State Park closes for the season, call 540-862-8100 OCTOBER • Apple Day; a celebration of Appalachian Heritage held at Douthat State Park in conjunction with the annual Douthat Arts & Crafts Fair, call 540-862-8100 • Fall Craft Show; held at Clifton Middle School, call 540-965-3351 • Fall Foliage Festival; held in downtown Clifton Forge, call 540-862-3358 • Fall Craft Festival; held at The Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, VA, call 540-839-1766 • Pumpkins in the Park; held at Jackson River Sports Complex in Covington, call 540-965-6360 • Hometown Halloween; held in both downtown Clifton Forge and Covington NOVEMBER • Chamber Wine Tasting & Dinner; sponsored by Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, call 540-962-2178 DECEMBER • Christmas Parades; held in downtown Clifton Forge, Covington and Iron Gate • Hometown Holidays; various activities & open houses in downtown Clifton Forge & Covington • Alleghany Highlands Chorale Concert, call 540-962-6220 • Alleghany Highlands Orchestra Performance, call 540-962-6220 An amazing bridge spans the waters. And the waters bridge the generations. Humpback Bridge was built in 1857 so horse drawn carriages could cross Dunlap Creek. Today, families flock to the Alleghany Highlands to paddle, fish and swim in the clear waters of our lakes, rivers and streams and enjoy the www.visitalleghanyhighlands.com hospitality of our two charming downtowns. History over 540-962-2178 · 888-430-5786 the water, good clean fun on it. It’s uniquely Alleghany. Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013 43 44 Alleghany Living 2012 - 2013