Appalachia Meets World

In this episode, Neil and Will bring back the past.  In honor of Neil's favorite holiday, they are bringing back an old episode as an extension of Halloween.  If you didn't listen last year, or if you forgot, take a listen to hear about an Appalachian Tourism Experience and a haunting place - The Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. 

Note: This is a repeat episode and a little different than other weeks.  See you next week!    

Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum - https://trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com/ 

In this Halloween episode Neil and Will sit down with Candy Hooten, Director of Operations at the Bell Witch Cave with a personal family connection to the Cave as well.  A lot goes on at the Bell Witch property, one of which is being the most haunted places in the U.S. The story goes - a witch (or spirit) haunted the Bell family starting in 1817 and eventually killed John Bell - the only known killing by a spirit.  Hear from Candy Hooten as she gives the background and describes her own personal experiences with the property. Oh yeah, her family also owns the Cave and part of the property.  Take a listen as she gives you an idea of what you can do if you visit - if you dare.  You might even hear about Neil and Will's favorite Halloween candy and whether or not Neil would spend the night in the Cave (hint: NO).  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the Week: Hilloween!  

The Bell Witch Cave - www.bellwitchcave.com 

Paranormal Investigations - www.bellwitchcave.com/paranormal-investigations-tennessee/ 

The Black Wolf Paranormal - www.facebook.com/people/The-Black-Wolf-Paranormal/100063519762124/

Recent Black Wolf Paranormal Photo at Bell Witch Cave - www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=778806510913334&set=pcb.778806527579999 

App News:

ARC POWER Awards - www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-nearly-54-million-to-advance-economic-diversification-in-appalachias-coal-impacted-communities/

Eastern Kentucky Diabetes Symposium - https://soar-ky.org/eky-diabetes-symposium/ 

National Geographic "Haunted Appalachia" - www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/appalachian-mountains-ancient-geology-modern-horror-stories 

Appalachian Urban Legends - https://heritageherald.com/2023/05/12/appalachian-urban-legends-the-scary-truth/ 

#AppBiz:

Hilloween - www.hilloweennc.org/ 

"The history of these music and dance traditions is intertwined with the history of the culture of the (Appalachian) region, and an understanding of one sheds a light on the other." (Hoedowns, Reels and Frolics: Roots and Branches of Southern Appalachian Dance). 

In this episode Will and Neil sit down with Phil Jamison, a world renowned musician, dancer and dance caller.  A musician first, for multiple decades Phil has also taught and called dances all over the world - with many accolades and two Hall of Fame inductions under his belt.  As Phil suggests, you can't have dance without the music and vice versa - further describing what makes dance such a big part of the culture of Appalachia.  Take a listen as he speaks on the history of dance in the region, how it has evolved over the years and what makes it so special to him.  You might even hear Neil describe his own dance ability (or lack thereof) and what exercise equipment brings back fond memories.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Fright Nights (West Virginia)!

Phil Jamison - www.philjamison.com 

Green Grass Cloggers - www.greengrasscloggers.com 

Hoedowns, Reels and Frolics: Roots and Branches of Southern Appalachian Dance - www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p080814 

The New Southern Ramblers - www.blueridgeheritage.com/artist/new-southern-ramblers/ 

Blue Ridge Music HOF - https://wilkesheritagemuseum.com/blue-ridge-music-hall-of-fame 

America's Clogging HOF - www.achf.us/ 

The Swannanoa Gathering - https://swangathering.com/ 

Square Dance History Project - https://squaredancehistory.org/ 

Thomas Maupin (Buck Dancer) - www.arts.gov/honors/heritage/thomas-maupin 

App News: 

ARCH2 (Hydrogen HUB) - www.arch2hub.com/ 

Hydrogen HUB "Caution" - https://kentuckylantern.com/2023/10/16/so-many-ways-hydrogen-can-go-wrong-hub-announcements-viewed-with-caution/ 

Virtual "Opioid Belt" - https://irjci.blogspot.com/2023/10/newly-released-data-reveals-virtual.html 

#AppBiz:

Fright Nights (#1 Haunted Attraction in West Virginia) - www.frightnightswv.com 

In memory of the passing of Loyal Jones.

In this follow-up episode on religion in Appalachia Neil and Will sit down with Jared Arnett, a pastor, entrepreneur and leader of "Together for the Mountains" - an organization focused on church planting in Eastern Kentucky and with a mission to mobilize a network of Christian leaders to take their faith outside the walls of the church to leave eastern Kentucky better than they found it.  Speaking on the diversity of religion in Appalachia, Jared gives his thoughts on the evolution of faith and church in Appalachia and what may be more important than teaching Sunday school.  Take a listen as he describes his own personal journey and how faith led him through his work.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: CREA Company! 

Jared Arnett - www.jaredarnett.com

Together for the Mountains - www.togetherforthemountains.com 

New Beginnings Fellowship Church - www.nbfc.church/ 

FaithLife Market  -  www.faithlifemarket.com/  

Dedicated to Loyal Jones: 

Loyal Jones (About) - www.berea.edu/centers/loyal-jones-appalachian-center/about-loyal-jones 

Loyal Jones Appalachian Center - www.berea.edu/centers/loyal-jones-appalachian-center 

App News: 

ARC ARISE Grants - www.arc.gov/news/biden-harris-administration-through-arc-awards-20m-to-accelerate-green-textile-manufacturing-green-energy-technology-in-southern-and-central-appalachia/ 

www.arc.gov/news/biden-harris-administration-through-arc-awards-14-5-million-to-grow-manufacturing-in-green-energy-sectors-workforce-development-opportunities-in-northern-and-central-appalachia/ 

ARC RFP Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure - www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Drinking-Water-and-Wastewater-Infrastructure-in-Appalachia-RFP-2023.pdf 

#AppBiz:

CREA Company - www.facebook.com/makebluefield/ 

Religion has been one of the strongest cultural forces in the lives of Appalachians.  Diverse and pervasive, it influences much of what is considered Appalachian both inside and outside of the region. 

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Randy Heady of Jackson County, TN.  Randy is a bi-vocational Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson County, where he also serves as the Mayor.  Hear Pastor/Mayor Heady talk about the significance of faith in Appalachia and the challenges faced by rural Pastors serving in dual roles on a seemingly full-time basis.  Historically, religion brings a sense of cultural unity to a region that is often misunderstood in just how diverse it really is.  Take a listen as Pastor/Mayor Heady describes that religious mountain identity and how he sees the evolution of it over his lifetime.  You might even hear Neil's favorite Sunday "after church" meal...it's far from traditional, maybe even a bit medicinal.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week (and how it originated through the church): Solar Holler! 

Jackson County, TN Mayor's Office - www.jacksoncotn.com/countydepartments.php# 

New Hope Baptist Church - www.newhopegainesboro.org/ 

AppNews:

Dark Skies (in Appalachia) Symposium - https://jbary.colgate.domains/symposium/ 

Appalachian Funders Network Philanthropic Asset Scan Webinar - www.appalachiafunders.org/news-resources/appalachia-funders-network-issues-siren-call-to-philanthropy-with-release-of-new-report-your-investments-in-appalachia-can-go-further 

Brad Paisley "Son of the Mountains" EP (Article in Country Now) - https://countrynow.com/brad-paisley-highlights-beautiful-and-painful-stories-of-appalachia-on-preview-of-son-of-the-mountains-album/  

Google Doodle: Appalachian Trail - www.google.com/doodles/celebrating-the-appalachian-trail 

Appalachian Studies Association: 47th Annual Conference (Call for Participation) - www.appalachianstudies.org/2024-conference  

ARC READY LDD's: $1 M Grant Award - www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-1-million-to-help-appalachian-local-development-districts-access-more-federal-funds-for-regions-communities/  

Fall Foliage Prediction Map - https://smokymountains.com/fall-foliage-map/ 

SOAR 2023 Summit - https://soar-ky.org/summit/ 

Church Recipes (Southern Living) - www.southernliving.com/recipes/church-recipes 

#AppBiz:

Solar Holler - www.solarholler.com/our-story/ 

Additional:

RePlant HUB - https://replanthub.com/ 

RePlant Resources - www.namb.net/church-replanting/resources/ 

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with David Shuster, CEO of Horizon Goodwill Industries in Western Maryland - to learn more about the significant impact Goodwill can have on a community - beyond the "thrift."  Hear Dave talk about the workforce development origins of Goodwill and how his particular organization thinks outside the box to feel needed gaps within his region.  Take a listen as he elaborates on key partnerships and how an organization with proven success can be multifaceted in its approach...all while staying true to its mountain roots.  You might even get a once in a lifetime opportunity to hear Neil break down the "swifty" experience, as well as his favorite cake - which is anything "bundt" normal.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Youngstown Flea!   

Horizon Goodwill Industries -  https://horizongoodwill.org/

AppNews:

SOAR Summit - https://soar-ky.org/summit/ 

Dark Skies Symposium (and Call for Participants/Papers) - https://jbary.colgate.domains/symposium/ 

ARC Appalachian Leadership Institute 2023-2024 Fellows - www.arc.gov/news/arc-announces-appalachian-leadership-institute-fellows-for-2023-2024/ 

Georgia Apple Festival (Ellijay, GA) - www.georgiaapplefestival.org/ 

BHM26.2 (Birmingham Marathon Weekend) - www.bhm26.2.com 

#AppBiz:

Youngstown Flea - https://youngstownflea.com/ 

Extra:

Nothing Bundt Cakes (non-Appalachian, but Neil's "favorite") - www.nothingbundtcakes.com/?gclid=CjwKCAjwyNSoBhA9EiwA5aYlb9ac6lpipiE_KtqV4DHMNFn_funxAV5S771De3pO2w4Yk6bn9JYYKhoCydYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds 

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with the folks from "Welcoming America" - an organization started to help communities create welcoming policies and share new approaches to inclusion to create and environment where everyone can truly thrive.  Hear Rachel Peric and Lola Pak discuss what it means to be a welcoming community and the long term impact it can have on an area.  Whether it be human, social or purely economic impact - being more inclusive and welcoming can be empowering component to the overall quality of life in a community.  Take a listen to hear how about one week a year when being a welcoming is highlighted and celebrated throughout the world (not just in Appalachia).  You might even hear Neil talk about his new resume booster and what you might find mixed in with your fried chicken when you visit his neck of the woods.  Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: The World Chicken Festival!

Welcoming America - www.welcomingamerica.org 

Welcoming Week - www.welcomingweek.org 

Welcoming Standard - https://welcomingamerica.org/the-welcoming-standard/ 

AppNews:

Appalachian Community Capital Green Bank - https://appalachiancommunitycapitalcdfi.org/oa-program/green-bank-for-appalachia-energy-communities-and-underserved-rural-america/ 

Appalachian Funders Network Report - www.appalachiafunders.org/news-resources/appalachia-funders-network-issues-siren-call-to-philanthropy-with-release-of-new-report-your-investments-in-appalachia-can-go-further 

ARC Appalachian Roadshow Stop #5 - www.arc.gov/event/stop-5-building-community-leaders-and-capacity/ 

#AppBiz:

The World Chicken Festival - www.chickenfestival.com 

"Because I wanted to...."

In this follow up episode, Neil and Will sit down with artist, sculpture, writer, author, mentor and coach - Bridgette Mongeon.  Hear her discuss a current project she's working on that has a great deal of historical significance to Appalachia, and more specifically the Appalachian Trail.  Take a listen as she describes her process of transitioning from the traditional art form of sculpting with clay to a digital process.  With pieces that can be seen throughout the world, this project is allowing her to combine her love of hiking with her passion for art.  Find out what, or who, the subject of her current work might be and how she has found connection to the piece.  You might also hear some of Neil's favorite "Grandma" recipes and why he loves this time of year.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Create Appalachia!

Bridgette Mongeon - www.creativesculpture.com 

GG Project - www.grandmagatewood.com 

Go Fund Me: GG Tribute Statue -  www.gofundme.com/f/grandma-gatewood-tribute-statue

Friends of Flight 93 (Memorial Site) - www.flight93friends.org/ 

Flight 93 Memorial (Park Service) - www.nps.gov/flni/index.htm 

AppNews:

ARC Annual Conference 2023 - www.arc.gov/event/arc-2023-annual-conference/ 

ARC Inspire (Grant) Award Announcement - www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-nearly-14-million-to-43-projects-supporting-appalachians-recovering-from-substance-use-disorder/ 

SOAR Summit 2023 - https://soar-ky.org/summit/ 

Women Warriors Summit 2023 - https://womenwarriorssummit.com/ 

Grandma's Favorite Gameday Recipes - www.southernliving.com/grandma-favorite-game-day-recipes-7569942  

#AppBiz: 

Create Appalachia - www.createappalachia.org

Energy Cooperatives are not only an important energy provider in smaller, more rural communities, they are a fixture in place making and community development within the communities they service.  In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Brent Jackson, the Member Relations Manager for Jackson Energy Cooperative.  As an energy cooperative, it's not beholden to its shareholders but is owned by the community - more specifically, "members" of the cooperative.  Find out about the principles that all cooperatives abide by and why its important for their operations and the communities they typically embed themselves in.  Take a listen and hear Brent discuss the community programs Jackson Energy utilizes to drive economic development and to stay true to their mission - to improve the quality of life for its members in Southeastern Kentucky.  You might even hear Neil's pick for the next Parrot Head Ambassador (I think you can probably guess who) - or hear reference to a new song called "Step On A Pop Top."  Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the Week: The Grove Marina! 

Jackson Energy Cooperative - www.jacksonenergy.com

Operation RoundUp - www.jacksonenergy.com/operation-roundup 

Touchstone Energy Cooperatives - www.touchstoneenergy.com 

NRECA America's Electric Cooperatives - www.electric.coop/ 

App News:

Healing Appalachia - www.healingappalachia.org

ARC Annual Conference - www.arc.gov/event/arc-2023-annual-conference/ 

ARC Appalachia Envisioned Road Show: Stop #5 - www.arc.gov/event/stop-5-building-community-leaders-and-capacity/ 

HUD Hope VI Main Street NOFO - www.hud.gov/program_offices/spm/gmomgmt/grantsinfo/fundingopps/fy2023_hopevi 

ACC The Green Bank for Rural America - https://appalachiancommunitycapitalcdfi.org/oa-program/green-bank-for-appalachia-energy-communities-and-underserved-rural-america/ 

#AppBiz: 

The Grove Marina - www.grovemarina.com 

Tribute Songs: 

"Come Monday" - Jimmy Buffett

"Margaritaville" - Jimmy Buffett

"A Pirate Looks at Forty" - Jimmy Buffett

A SMALL TOWN NEVER FORGETS!!

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Deb Brown and Becky McCray, co-founders of Save Your Town!  With a focus on smaller communities, they believe small towns can be saved by their own people using their own resources.  As small town experts, their organization combats community challenges and specializes in low or no cost solutions, ones that will work in even the tiniest of towns.  Hear them talk about the recently released "Survey of Rural Challenges: and find out what were some of the most surprising things they learned during the process.  Take a listen and discover some best practices that small towns throughout the country (and in Appalachia) are deploying to improve their communities - who knows, you may even have the inclination to "Save Your Town!" You might even hear Neil's thoughts on wearing white and  the question of why we don't work on Labor Day.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Tionesta Market Village and Matt's Happy Cow BBQ!

Deb Brown: Building Possibility - https://buildingpossibility.com/

Becky McCray: Small Biz Survival - https://smallbizsurvival.com/

Save Your Town - https://saveyour.town/

App News:

Renewable Energy Jobs Are Coming To Appalachia (Mother Jones) - www.motherjones.com/politics/2023/08/renewable-energy-jobs-are-coming-to-appalachia/ 

The Potential to Convert Toxic Waste in Appalachian Coal Mines - https://nationworldnews.com/the-potential-to-convert-toxic-waste-in-appalachia-coal-mines-into-valuable-resources/

Fracking Counties in Appalachia are Shedding Jobs - www.ehn.org/fracking-job-loss-2664305050.html

Festival Guide - https://festivalguidesandreviews.com/west-virginia-festivals/

The Connect Act -  https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3216?s=1&r=1 

SOAR Summit - https://soar-ky.org/summit/

ARC Appalachian Research Teaching Initiative - www.arc.gov/acri/ 

#AppBiz:

Tionesta Market Village - www.marketvillage-tionesta.com/index.html 

Matt's Happy Cow BBQ - https://happycowbbq.wixsite.com/mattshappycowbbq