Imagine being transported to the heart of Statesville, surrounded by 18 eclectic restaurants, charming sweet treat shops, wine destinations, a brewery, and more. This episode brings you right there, as our insightful guests, Brittany Marlow and Liz Petree, from the Downtown Statesville Development Corporation (DSDC), give us a virtual tour of this vibrant town. We get to know the riveting work of DSDC, their quest for economic vitality and the high standards they maintain for the North Carolina Main Street program. Get ready to virtually taste the sweetness of the local shops and feel the energy of the bustling downtown environment.

The adventure doesn't stop there. We further navigate the remarkable events that the DSDC hosts, which range from the much-anticipated Pumpkin Fest and Friday After Five, to the intimate Wine Walks and Art Crawls. The Pumpkin Fest, in particular, is a journey of its own, with an amazing array of vendors, a car show, a kid zone and even a gripping after-party concert. We also explore the intriguing new Social District in Downtown Statesville, where you can enjoy a beverage while strolling around. The charm of Statesville's rich art scene, from the sculpture garden to the Cooper Street Banner Art Gallery, is impossible to resist. So, buckle up for this exhilarating journey into the heart of Statesville, as we uncover the tireless efforts of the DSDC to make it a must-visit destination.

Get ready to journey into the heart of Statesville, North Carolina, as we shed light on its first legal distillery since prohibition - Southern Distilling. Promising to quench your thirst for unique experiences and knowledge alike, we've invited two key members of the distillery's team. Laurel, the  tasting room manager, and Angelique, the ever-enthusiastic brand & marketing manager, join us to unfold the exciting happenings at the distillery and their future ambitions. Discover how the founders, Pete and Vienna Barger's vineyard dream transformed into a distillery reality, and the reasoning behind their love for Statesville. They've even made it possible for you to purchase a bottle on Sundays! Brace yourself for an inside look at their upcoming events, from participating in the thrilling Carolina BalloonFest to their inaugural Carve & Cask Halloween event.

We'll move then into the distillery's new product launching on October 20th. You won't want to miss the festive atmosphere at the distillery, Carolina Panther's-themed cocktails, and special guests. We'll talk about how Southern Distilling has been making waves in the community, from their showcasing at the Blowing Rock Horse Show to their participation in Friday After Five and the Statesville Pumpkinfest.  And finally, be sure to save the date for their first-ever holiday party at their new event center on December 9th.  You're invited to join the celebrations! So grab a glass, sit back, and tune in. 

Get ready to be transported into the captivating world of competitive hot air ballooning with our guest, Drew Egerton. From his early introduction to the sport, Drew takes us through his journey of obtaining his pilot's license and navigating the thrilling world of balloon competitions. With an in-depth look at how pilots use wind directions to steer their balloons and nail the competitive tasks, including the legendary Gordon Bennett Memorial Task, you'll find yourself completely immersed in the sport.

But this episode isn't just about balloons. Drew and his wife, Taylor, have their hearts anchored in the community around them. Having both their own licenses and balloons, they don't just compete- they make a difference. They're deeply involved in various charitable activities, including the upcoming Graze + Glow event at Equuvation: Therapy & Education, a therapy initiative involving horses designed to help children grappling with trauma. It's a testament to how passions can be harnessed not just for thrill, but for change.

Finally, we take a peek at the 48th annual Carolina Balloon Fest, an event that paints the sky with vibrant colors and houses enthusiasts from all corners. Don't worry if you're new to this, Drew shares invaluable tips for those looking to get into ballooning and earn their own pilot's licenses. We wrap up with an insight into Drew's blog about competitive hot air ballooning, where his love for this sport truly shines through. So buckle up for this episode of Discover Statesville, NC and let the winds of adventure take you on an unforgettable journey.

Meet Michelle Hepler, the Executive Director at Rescue Ranch in Statesville, North Carolina. This episode promises an engaging journey through the 87-acre sanctuary, home to 81 animal residents from 32 different species. Hear Michelle's passionate narrative that uncovers not only the current operations of the ranch but also its educational initiatives and future plans. Discover the ranch’s role in promoting responsible pet ownership through a blend of private and guided tours, engaging educational programming, and delightful stories about the animals' unique personalities and behaviors.

The excitement continues as we explore the Ranch's 10,000 square foot all-inclusive playground and hear about the upcoming Dogtoberfest – a family-friendly event complete with pumpkin painting, train rides, food trucks, and a dog costume contest. 

Beyond the boundaries of Rescue Ranch,  we share Michelle's wider community involvement, including her roles with the Rotary Farmers Market and the Statesville Convention and Visitors Bureau. Learn how she’s helping shape the safety standards for Ropes, Challenge Courses, Aerial Adventure Parks and Ziplines on an international level. 

Michelle’s tireless dedication to her community shines through her every word, reminding us of the power of love, light, and commitment to making the world a better place. Listen in and be inspired.

Ready to immerse yourself in the spirit of fall? 

Statesville, NC has something for everyone this October! You won't want to miss any of these exciting events. 

👮 10/03, National Night Out with the Statesville Police Department 

👺  10/06, Midway Wicked Woods kicks off at Midway Campground Resort 

🎃 10/07, Opening of Beaver Farms Pumpkin Patch

🚲 10/07, Don't miss the 4th Annual Take That Hill Ride with Purple Heart Homes at Southern Distilling Company 

🐶 10/07, Dog Day at the Statesville Leisure Pool 

🌻 Sunflower picking is on track for mid-October at Beaver Farms 

🌽 Fall Fun Days are in full force at Howard Family Farm 

🎻 10/09, Tickets go on sale for the Opus Financial Advisors, Inc. Symphony Orchestra in December at the Statesville Civic Center 

👄 10/10, Rocky Horror Picture Show screening with Full Bloom Film Festival at the Iredell Arts Council 

🐕 10/14, Dogtoberfest at Rescue Ranch 

🎸 10/14, 2nd Saturday Festival in Downtown Statesville featuring Dani Kerr 

🎤 10/15, Rockie Lynne will take the stage for the 12th annual Tribute to the Troops dinner and concert at the Statesville Civic Center.

🦅 10/15, Allison Woods Outdoor Learning Center Raptor Faire at The Historic Sharpe House 

🎈 10/20-22, 48th Annual Carolina BalloonFest at the Statesville Regional Airport 

👻 10/20 - 21 & 10/27-28, Haunted Statesville Ghost Tours in Downtown Statesville 

🔫 10/21-22, North Carolina Gun Collector's Association returns to the Statesville Civic Center for its Gun Show. 

🍬 10/27, Trick or Treat the Statesville Greenways with the Statesville Recreation & Parks Department 

🥃 10/28, Carve & Cask at Southern Distilling Company 

🍭 10/31, Downtown Statesville Trick or Treat

SAVE THE DATE for the 20th Annual Downtown Statesville Pumpkin Festival on 11/04! 

🎟️ For more details on these events to include links to purchase tickets, please visit: 
https://www.statesvillenc.com/community-calendar/  

What if you could break free from a scarcity mindset and tap into a well of potential you never knew existed? Join us on a transformative journey as we engage in a profound conversation with Tevin Carr and Capra Harris, the dynamic duo behind the organization, Insomniacs.  Dedicated to empowering minorities, they offer innovative programs that provide resources and tools to help them shine, both artistically and in business. With their commitment to social-emotional learning for the youth and their focus on fostering a sense of cultural relevance and pride, they are truly creating waves of change.

In partnership with the Iredell Arts Council, the Insomniacs are gearing up for their upcoming show, Girl Who Dat? where 8  local artists will showcase their talent.  As they passionately discuss the importance of collaboration in their journey, Tevin and Capra also share their personal stories and how they have been able to build a vibrant artist community. Their initiatives are not just about providing access to stage lighting and sound, but also about building sustainable communities and promoting pride in one's cultural identity. Get ready to be inspired by their journey, their impact, and their vision for a more inclusive and vibrant artistic community.

Ever wondered how someone transitions into being a seasoned alpaca farmer? That's exactly what our guests, Javi and Val from Serenity Alpacas, accomplished. They're here to share their captivating journey from owning three alpacas to managing a thriving herd of 36 in Stony Point, North Carolina. They've encountered interesting challenges, learned about the unique needs of these endearing creatures, and even organized national events like National Alpaca Farm Days. The tale of their success is an inspiring testament to the unexpected turns life can take.

Once you've caught the alpaca bug from Val and Javi, prepare to be swept off your feet by the immersive alpaca experience at Camp Squirrel, nestled within the Serenity Alpacas farm. Imagine having the opportunity to feed and hug these furry wonders, and feel their luxurious fleece. Not only that, the farm offers a myriad of activities like paint parties and tours that are sure to keep you engaged and entertained. So whether you're an aspiring alpaca farmer, an animal lover, or just a curious soul, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey into the enchanting world of alpacas.

If you think there is nothing to do in Statesville, NC in September . . .

🍇 YOU PICK - Muscadines & Scuppernongs
(Hazy Red Vineyard, Cowan Farm and Vineyard, Grietje's Garden, R and R Grapes)
🎨 Fall Art Crawl - Downtown Statesville (09/15)
🦙 Alpaca Farm Days -Serenity at Stony Point (09/23 & 09/24)
🌈 Pride Parade - PFLAG Statesville (09/23)
🐕 Dog Day At The Pool - Statesville Recreation & Parks Department (09/23)
👩‍🌾 Systems Change Conference - Carolina Farm Trust (09/27 & 09/28)
🍽️ Farm To Table 'Dinner on W. Broad St' - Carolina Farm Trust (09/27)
🌽 Urban Soul on the Farm Dinner, VanHoy Farms Family Campground - Carolina Farm Trust (09/28)
🎶 Carolina Jubilee - Carolina Farm Trust (09/28 & 09/29)
👻 Midway Wicked Woods kicks off at Midway Campground Resort (09/29)
🪖Fall Living History Day - Fort Dobbs State Historic Site (09/30)
🚔 Statesville Police Department Statesville National Night Out (10/3)

𝑽𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 + 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒖𝒑𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆, 𝑵𝑪 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆: https://bit.ly/3Qv1pj7

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆, 𝑵𝑪 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑪𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝑫𝑹𝑰𝑽𝑬𝑵 𝑩𝒚 Randy Marion Statesville!

From a humble beginning amidst the pandemic to becoming a beloved figure in the foodie community, Wes Hawn - The Carolina Foodie joins us in a delightful conversation about his culinary adventures. Have you ever wondered about the secret ingredient to becoming a popular food influencer? Wes's journey unfolds a captivating tale that begins with summer travels around the United States with his grandparents and his love affair with local cuisines and diners. His visit to Delaney's Sports Bar in charming downtown Statesville is just the beginning of many enticing food stories that Wes will share.

This episode is a feast for your ears, filled with delectable experiences and humorous anecdotes. Wes's love for food isn't just about indulging in diverse cuisines, but also engaging in funny conversations with the staff, like the one he had while ordering spicy Thai food. We unravel the vibrant sense of community in Statesville, discussing the Full Bloom Film Festival and how local businesses have gained a lot of fans. Wes even suggests a delightful idea of inviting podcast guests with a dish and a story to share, ensuring there are plenty of flavors and stories yet to come. 

Wrapping up our mouth-watering chat, we express our appreciation for the Full Bloom Film Festival happening THIS WEEKEND in Downtown Statesville! 

Wes's takeaway from his foodie journey is his belief that everyone has a story to share and that food is the universal language that unites us all. Come join us as we uncover hidden gems, embark on culinary adventures, and discover the unique, heartwarming stories in Statesville. The enticing aroma of Wes's foodie adventures lingers, leaving us eager for the next episode where we continue to discover the magic of Statesville.

Ever wonder about the illusion of abundance in our grocery stores or the state of our local food systems? How about the importance of soil health or the connection between farms and the culinary world? Let's unpack these and many more in our enlightening conversation with Zach Wyatt and Michael Bowling of Carolina Farm Trust. This dynamic duo is on a mission to rebuild regional food systems, through urban farms, a farm apprentice program, a Food is Health program, and a new distribution facility. They'll reveal why our food systems are at breaking point, and how we can shift our perspective from an illusion of abundance to a more realistic, sustainable approach.

But we're not stopping there. Carolina Farm Trust is set to co-host an upcoming soil health conference with a host of exciting associated events. Get a sneak peek at what to expect, from an urban farm dinner to the Carolina Jubilee music festival. Plus, discover how Zach and Michael are bridging the gap between restaurants, culinary programs, and farmers to create immersive dinner experiences. These events aren't just about great food and music, they're about igniting conversations that matter around our food system. So, join us as we navigate the journey from farm to fork, and learn how we can all play a role in supporting our local food economy. This is a conversation that promises to feed both your mind and soul. Tune in!