Guest Columnists
Courtesy of Virginia State Parks
The Mountain Q&A - Dr. Melissa Baker: Director of Virginia State Parks
She leads Virginia State Parks, the first state in the nation to open a system of parks. “From the mountains to the piedmont, you can get just about anything you want in Virginia.”
Apr 29, 2025
Courtesy of Lindsey Gallaher
The Mountain Q&A - Lindsey Gallaher: President of The Museum of Appalachia
This granddaughter of Museum of Appalachia founder John Rice Irwin now leads the 54-year-old East Tennessee museum, keeping the stories alive and showing visitors how people of Southern Appalachia lived in the 1800s.
Mar 5, 2025
Courtesy Blenko Glass
The Mountain Q&A - John Blenko: President of Blenko Glass in Milton, West Virginia
John Blenko is the fourth generation to lead this 131-year-old company in making hand-blown glass popular throughout the world.
Jan 9, 2025
Courtesy of Tom Bailey
The Mountain Q&A - Tom Bailey: Executive Director of the Southern Highland Craft Guild
Tom Bailey is leading the second-oldest craft organization in America toward its 100th birthday with big dreams for its future in multiple locations.
Nov 1, 2024
Courtesy of Kasey Krouse
The Mountain Q&A - Kasey Krouse: Tree Advocate Wears Many Hats
Knoxville’s urban forester since 2012 promotes the benefits of trees while growing the region’s tree canopy. He was educated at Purdue and, with his wife, Beth, is the father of two young daughters.
Sep 12, 2024
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