Appalachia Meets World Episode 108 - The Appalachian ”Friends of Southwest Virginia” with Kim Davis

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Kim Davis, the executive director of "Friends of Southwest Virginia" - a regional organization positioned to develop and coordinate the creative economy in Southwest Virginia (SWVA).  It uniquely works to not only drive tourism in the region, but to also combine infrastructure and economic development within its mission.  While the "Birthplace of Country Music" can seemingly sell itself, take a listen as Kim describes how they utilize the bigger draws to make a sustainable impact on smaller communities throughout the region.  SWVA - the Appalachian part of Virginia has so much to offer, you need to hear for yourself what that is and what you can expect to see if you hike Grayson Highlands State Park - it might be "wild" and it might have something to do with "ponies."  Kim also explains the "why" of what she does and how her passion for the region has been a part of her whole life.  You might also hear Will and Neil's experience (or lack thereof) with the "Moonbow" and Neil's version of the "Appalachian Finger."  Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Peking Chinese Restaurant!  

Friends of Southwest Virginia - www.friendsofswva.org

SWVA Cultural Center - https://friendsofswva.org/aboutculturalcenter/ 

SWVA Marketplace ('Round the Mountain') - https://friendsofswva.org/aboutculturalcenter/artisan/ 

App News:

Accelerate West Virginia - https://wvhub.org/apply-for-our-accelerate-wv-program-as-part-of-the-act-now-coalition/ 

Accelerate West Virginia 2023 Communities - https://wvhub.org/2023/05/introducing-the-2023-accelerate-wv-communities/ 

Appalachian Fair - www.appalachianfair.com 

PBS Appalachia Virginia - www.pbsavirginia.org 

#AppBiz:

Peking Chinese Restaurant - www.pekingva.com