The Atrium at Heartwood in Abingdon.
Heartwood Recipient of Virginia's "Opportunity Hall of Fame" Award
ABINGDON, Va. – Heartwood: Southwest Virginia's Artisan Gateway has been named a recipient of First Lady Maureen McDonnell's Opportunity Hall of Fame Award for playing a key role in creating sustainable economy in Southwest Virginia through the showcase of craft, music, food and local culture.
Heartwood, which opened its doors to the public in June of this year, is also home to the offices of The Crooked Road: Virginia's Heritage Music Trail and 'Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia's Artisan Network.
The award presented to Heartwood from First Lady McDonnell's Opportunity Hall of Fame is for A Commonwealth of Opportunity for Economic Development, with a specific focus on the Virginia Wine, Film, and Tourism Industries.
"It is undeniably gratifying to be among First Lady McDonnell's recipients for this year's awards," said Todd Christensen, executive director of the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation. "This award is a testament to the artisans and musicians of Southwest Virginia's 19 counties, four cities and 30 towns. With dedication and talent we can make the cultural and heritage traditions of the region an economic development model for the commonwealth."
Recipients of First Lady Maureen McDonnell's First Lady's Opportunity Hall of Fame awards were announced as part of the First Lady's Initiatives Team Effort (FLITE), launched last year to recognize programs, activities, organizations and individuals who strive to create a Commonwealth of Opportunity in their communities. Awards for this year were given to five individuals and groups. 18 groups and individuals received the First Lady's Opportunity Seal of Approval.
>> In addition, Heartwood has been named one of the Top 10 Craft Galleries in America. To read the story in the Bristol Herald Courier, CLICK HERE.
