Author: Hunter Blevins

03 Jun

Posted at 14:18h in Story by
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John Craigie [caption id="attachment_353208" align="alignleft" width="240"] Photo credit: Bradley Cox[/caption] Music has always been close at the heart of Southwest Virginia. Country music can trace its roots right to Bristol Virginia and its legendary echoes still ring through the region on the Crooked Road. It comes as no surprise that the music scene here, nearly one hundred years later, is still vibrant and thriving. From numerous venues you can catch a live performance sprinkled throughout the region...

03 Jun

Posted at 14:11h in Story by
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Molasses  There are as many reasons to love Southwest Virginia as there are flowers in its mountains or fish in its rivers but a defining aspect of the region that will always linger in its heart is the beautiful culture that has blossomed here. Just passing through one of the many towns or cities in this part of the state, it would be hard not to notice the good nature and kind souls that inhabit them....

04 Mar

Posted at 11:24h in Informational Article, Story by
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 We all know how special the hills of Southwest Virginia and everything within them are. If you’re reading this, you’re most likely well versed in their beauty and uniqueness. From the cascading Appalachian mountains that tumble through the region to the fascinating culture that has grown upon them. You don’t have to look far for plenty of reasons this corner of the world has etched itself into the hearts of so many.  Sitting atop those reasons...

04 Mar

Posted at 10:41h in Story by
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 One of the defining features of Southwest Virginia is its many main street communities. Marion Virginia is a perfect representation of the unique culture and environment that these communities create. Whether it be fun activities, arts and crafts, or a fantastic restaurant to eat at on a Saturday night, you’ll find it all on one side of the street or the other. Here are some things you don’t want to miss while you’re in town.    The...

03 Mar

Posted at 16:55h in Story by
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Some time ago, someone remarked to me that Wytheville is one of the most delightful towns in Southwest Virginia to spend a day but it never gets the recognition it deserves. I set out to spend some time in there and discover what enriching or fun activities it might hide.   I was surprised with what I found. Even a simple stroll down the historic Main Street proved to be enjoyable. You can see history written in...

03 Mar

Posted at 16:23h in Story by
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 Southwest Virginia is dotted with hidden gems but perhaps its worst kept secret is Hungry Mother State Park just outside of Marion. A favorite by many locals and travelers alike, the park boasts some of the best recreational activities in the area and its charm is challenged only by its breathtaking beauty.   Opened in 1936, the park along with its gorgeous namesake lake has held a special place in the heart of the region. It attracts...

03 Mar

Posted at 16:00h in Story by
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I’ve heard Wytheville described as an old town with a new heart. A blossoming scene of business and culture in the region. Which could describe Southwest Virginia in general. A region with roots that stretch through the soil of history for hundreds of years in the middle of a reawakening. A newfound appreciation of old and new, a marriage of tradition and innovation. If you live here you can see it happening, unfolding on our...

03 Mar

Posted at 14:20h in Informational Article, Story by
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“You don’t see too many people out here this time of year. I like the peace”   It was a cool evening. The wind whispered the onset of fall and the only trace left of summer was the fading green leaves on the trees and the echoes of crickets below them. I had been on a quest to find a new place to watch the evening sun set that led me to Rural Retreat Lake. A place I...

03 Mar

Posted at 09:22h in Story by
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When I was a child, my favorite treat was a fresh apple. You know the feeling. You wake up on the onset of a cool, crisp fall day. There’s just enough fog hanging in the air to keep dawn’s light from hurting your eyes but not enough to forewarn of a dreary day. You set out in your car for a drive through the countryside. You see the hills wake up as you pass them...

03 Mar

Posted at 09:19h in Story by
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They say all art tells a story but you would be hard-pressed to find any kind of art that tells as many stories as does the work of Daniel Scott of Marion, Virginia. Though he doesn't call himself an artist. Preferring the term craftsman. You can find his work on Facebook and Instagram under the name of “Artistic Kindling”. Not only is it breathtaking to look at but also “burns and floats too”. I had the...