Builder, in conjunction with Hanley Wood Market Intelligence, debuts its metric for determining markets with the best and least potential.
By: Boyce Thompson
With most economists and builders expecting a national market decline this year, this may not seem like the best time to be selecting the "healthiest" markets in the country. Virtually every market was down last year. But a close look at the numbers reveals that some markets have way outperformed others during the last four years and are likely to continue to do so this year.
When the housing market stages its official recovery, the markets listed on the following pages are likely to lead the parade. It may take a year or more for the weakest markets--where burgeoning foreclosure sales are still pounding new home values, making building and selling new homes an exercise in futility-- to finally stage a turnaround. We’ll present that list next week.
The healthiest markets have many things in common. Most of them are great places to live, either close to the ocean, mountains, or major universities. Most of them didn’t have a huge run-up in prices during the boom and aren’t experiencing rampant deflation during the bust.
To compile these lists, we analyzed the top 75 housing markets in the country. We ranked them based on population trends and job growth, perennial drivers of housing demand. We also examined what’s happened with home prices; many of the healthiest markets have managed to hold the line on home values. And finally, we considered the rate building permits, which may be the single best ongoing indicator of builder confidence in a market. We combined all these metrics to produce a score for each market. Here are the top 15, in reverse order.
15. Myrtle Beach, S.C.
2008 total building permits: 3,211
Though permit activity dropped sharply last year, Myrtle Beach remains one of the hottest markets in the country, especially when you analyze the number of permits pulled per resident. Only 263,287 people live in the Myrtle Beach metro area, which until recently had been growing its population by nearly 5 percent a year. That means builders pulled one permit for every 82 residents. A steady influx of people, many of them retirees, are drawn by close proximity to the ocean and 117 golf courses at last count. That has helped keep home prices steady; they fell only 10 percent last year to a very affordable $174,800. Most of the home building is split between Brunswick and New Hanover counties. Jobs are dependent on the tourist industry, though, and the metro area was rocked last year when a $400 million rock-and-roll themed amusement part, Hard Rock Park, opened and then filed for bankruptcy. Myrtle Beach added jobs last year, but as of December employment was decreasing at a 4.2 percent rate compared to a year earlier.
14. Wilmington, N.C.
2008 total building permits: 3,551
Wilmington has the second highest ratio of permits pulled per resident, behind only Myrtle Beach. The population here, 352,919 by Census estimates, has been growing at a 4 percent annual rate for the last five years, well above the national average. Primary residents are drawn by a four-season climate, close proximity to Atlantic beaches, and affordable housing. Median home prices, at $198,700, are just about the national average. The area gave back 1,000 jobs last year, after gaining 19,000 the previous three years. Wilmington has had a 60 percent decline in permit activity since 2005, around the national average, but its track record for population growth helps it make this list.
13. Charlotte, N.C.
2008 total building permits: 12,231
People and businesses must love Charlotte, because they are moving there at a high rate. The metro area of 1.74 million has grown its residents by 4 percent annually over the last five years, one of the highest rates in the country. They are drawn by relatively affordable housing for the east coast—median home prices are only $210,900, and they’ve only "corrected" downward by only 4.2 percent in the last year. A strong fourth quarter helped Charlotte record 12,231 permits last year, only a 44 percent decline since 2005. Charlotte’s strength relative to other markets led the investment banking firm UBS to predict last year that it would be one of the first markets to recover from the housing downturn. Charlotte is still a single-family market, with 62 percent of the residential activity in stand-alone homes. The job market in this banking hub contracted last year, after growing 3 to 5 percent annually the previous three years.
12. Denver, Col. 2008 total building permits: 8,800
Denver has been all over the home building news of late, with Beazer and Centex leaving town, then Village Homes of Colorado declaring bankruptcy. But the market hasn’t been hit as hard by the home building recession as other Western markets, in part because it didn’t experience rampant price appreciation during the boom. That’s partly because there’s lots of land available to develop in Denver. The median price of an existing home here was still an affordable $225,100 in the third quarter of last year, down only 11.4 percent in the last year (through 3Q 08). Denver enjoys one of the highest population growth rates in the country--2 percent annually for each of the last five years. Builders pulled 8,800 permits in Denver last year, down from 20,864 in 2005, a percentage decline that’s close to the national average. Denver is buoyed by a strong commercial real estate market.
11. Nashville, Tenn. 2008 total building permits: 8,142
Nashville, the 20th largest home building market, operated under the radar of the national housing boom. It didn’t ramp up wildly during the boom years, and it’s not contracting viciously during the bust. Median home prices remain an affordable $152,100, propped up by a growing job base. Eighty percent of the residential construction is single-family. Some of the market’s resilience stems from above-average population growth of about 2.3 percent a year. Back in the day, 2005, Nashville accounted for 16,654 permits; it now runs at about half that level. But that’s a better performance than most major markets.
10. Washington DC 2008 total building permits: 11,693
Washington D.C. showed signs last summer that it might be emerging from the downturn, then it turned south again. Even so, the area produces a ton of jobs—an estimated 35,000 in the last year—that fuel a vibrant housing market, the 11th largest in the country. Many of the jobs stem from contracts with the federal government. Washington D.C. remains a relatively unaffordable place to live, with a median home price of $332,700 in the third quarter of last year. But values have fallen only 24 percent in the last year in part because the population continues to grow—an average of 1 percent annually over the last five years. Home building patterns have changed dramatically in the nation’s capital with builders mothballing subdivisions well beyond the beltway and focusing on infill opportunities. The region remains one of the worst in the nation for commuters.
9. Fayetteville, Ark. 2008 total building permits: 2,989
Fayetteville has made some important lists in recent years. Located in the foothills of the Ozarks and within an easy drive of Wal-Mart’s corporate headquarters, it has recently been named one of the best places to live (by Kiplinger) and to do business (by Inc.). Employment, which had been strongly positive since 2005, dropped somewhat in the fourth quarter of last year. Recent layoffs at Wal-Mart’s corporate office sent tremors through the market. But several Fortune 500 companies that sell products to Wal-Mart have established offices here, and they have helped Fayetteville achieve one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, 4.1 percent in the fourth quarter. The University of Arkansas is also located in Fayetteville, and it has helped attract start-up businesses. Residents are drawn by an affordable housing stock; median prices average only $139,400, below the national average, and they’ve lost only 2.4 percent of their value in the last year. Builders pulled only 2,989 residential permits last year, down from 7, 449 in 2005.
8. Indianapolis, Ind. 2008 total building permits: 7,004
Builders are still pulling permits at a relatively healthy rate in Indianapolis, despite a virtually flat job market. Unlike other major markets that have become multifamily-oriented, single family still accounts for two-thirds of home building activity. Ultra-affordable housing accounts for some of the activity—the median price of a home here is only $117,900, making it one of the most affordable markets in the country. As a result, home prices have declined only 4.5 percent in the last year. At the top of the market in 2005, builders in Indianapolis took down 15,619 permits, so activity is down 55 percent, slightly better than the national average. Unfortunately, the relative health of the market wasn’t enough to keep Davis Homes, one of the area’s largest private builders, from going out of business last year.
7. Seattle, Wash. 2008 total building permits: 13,021
Seattle, a city of 3.4 million people, last year weighed in as the eighth largest home building market. Residential construction activity here, as measured by permits, is off only 50 percent since 2005, much better than most markets. Seattle has steadily transitioned during the last 10 years from an affordable to an upscale housing market, with the median price of an existing home reaching above $350,000. Even so, existing home prices fell only 11 percent in the last year. One of the secrets to Seattle’s success is that it has added lots of jobs in recent years; and held on to them last year. Some builders there have even stepped up their land buying in anticipation of a market recovery. As the city has become more urban, the share of single family to multifamily permits has reversed; multifamily now accounts for 58 percent of activity.
6. Raleigh, N.C. 2008 total building permits: 11,386
Another state capital with multiple universities, Raleigh was still adding jobs at a 1.9 percent annual rate though the third quarter of last year. With a population of more than 1 million, it also has one of the highest rates of population growth of any top metro market in the country over the last five years: nearly 5 percent annually. Though the price of a median home here, $221,900, is above the national average, it is well below other cities in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. The metro area has added roughly 68,000 jobs since 2005, and employment held steady last year. With a glut of national builders in the market, locals such as Dixon Kirby have experimented with different looks and styles to keep sales alive.
5. Dallas, Texas 2008 total building permits: 26,145
In a year when permits declined 35 percent nationally, Dallas only experienced a 9 percent fall-off. With a population of 4.2 million, Dallas was the third largest home building market last year, as measured in permits pulled. Employers in Dallas, a popular place for corporate relocation and expansion, added 42,000 jobs last year, a growth rate of 2 percent. Existing home prices have held steady, falling a paltry 2.3 percent in the last year, Interestingly, the face of residential construction has changed dramatically in Dallas in recent years; 58 percent of the activity last year was in multifamily, compared to a five-year average of 23 percent. The relative stability of the market, though, wasn’t enough to prevent Wall Homes from filing for bankruptcy earlier this year. On the other hand, former Meritage co-CEO John Landon recently started a new Dallas-based home building company.
4. San Antonio, Texas 2008 total building permits: 10,261
San Antonio is another Texas market that is still adding jobs, about 15,000 last year. A city of more than 2 million people now, its population is also growing, at a 2.8 percent annual clip through the third quarter of last year. Existing home prices are barely declining in San Antonio, down only 1.8 percent in the last year, leaving the median price of an existing single-family home at an affordable $154,400, 25 percent below the national average of $200,500, according to the National Association of Realtors. The upper end of the housing market was hurt recently when AT&T announced it would be moving its corporate headquarters to Dallas.
3. Fort Worth, Texas 2008 Total Building Permits: 10,388
Fort Worth, always operating in the shadow of higher profile Dallas, nevertheless can currently claim to have a slightly healthier housing market, based on its employment growth, relatively strong permit activity, and inexpensive housing. Now the 14th largest home building market in the country, Ft. Worth’s builders pulled 10,388 permits last year, roughly two-thirds of them single-family. That may be half as many as 2005, but many other major markets showed much sharper drop-offs. The relative strength of the Fort Worth market in recent years stems from its ties to the oil and gas industries, which has fueled above-average job growth. The metro area added 17,300 jobs last year.
2. Austin, Texas 2008 Total Building Permits: 14,250
Nine years ago, during the tech bust, some builders felt that Austin was too crowded and left. The bloom is back on Austin’s yellow rose now; it moved up the leader board to become the sixth largest home building market last year. Job creation explains the move. While other markets lost employment, Austin added 17,400 jobs last year, 2.31 percent growth rate. It helps that Austin is home to both a major university, The University of Texas, and the state capital. Existing homes cost a little bit more in Austin than other Texas markets, roughly $190,900, but that’s still below the national average. Also, Austin is one of the few metro areas in the country where median prices actually rose in 2008--1.4 percent through the first three quarters of the year. Amazingly, Austin now generates more home building activity than Chicago, which has six times more people.
1. Houston, Texas 2008 Total Building Permits: 42,697
They like to do things big in Houston. Now the metro area, home to nearly 5.8 million people, can lay claim to being the largest home building market in the country, with 42,697 building permits. The market is still benefiting from an influx of population and jobs and rebuilding in the wake of Hurricane Ike. Employment rose 2.2 percent last year, representing the addition of an incredible 57,000 jobs. Home building activity in Houston has only fallen 31 percent since 2005. Also, existing home prices actually rose in Houston last year, 2.8 percent, to $160,200, still a very affordable level. Roughly one third of the home building action is in Harris County, followed by Houston proper and Fort Bend County. One of Houston’s largest builders, Royce Homes, shut down last year, and Kimball Hill, one of the biggest builders in Texas, closed its doors this year after it failed to find a buyer.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Healthiest Housing Markets for 2009
Monday, November 5, 2007
How To Pick An Attorney In North Carolina
All attorneys are not created equal. Selecting an attorney must begin by finding one that is qualified to work in family court, criminal, dwi, divorce, and so on. The best way to find a good attorney is from someone who has had personal experience with the attorney and can give you a positive recommendation. This is still a good way to learn about an attorney's reputation. Anyway, be cautious and take your time in finding the right attorney.
Always look for an attorney who is experienced in the particular area of law that is needed. Though the competent attorney's hourly rate is usually higher, I have learned that by the time the case is completed, the competent attorney costs were usually cheaper.
Remember you are paying for good representation and not specific results. Be suspicious of any attorney who makes promises about the outcome of your case.
Select an attorney who has a proven track record in the county where your case will be heard. Ask how many divorce cases they have had in the past year.
Usually a friend who has had experience with a particular attorney in a case similar to yours is an excellent source for getting the name of an attorney.
The local bar association will help you by giving three names of local attorneys. Keep in mind that the bar association will give you names of attorneys specializing in domestic relations and have an office close to where you live or work. The names do not take into consideration the attorney's reputation or competency.
It is important to be cautious when hiring a big-name attorney for a divorce case. These attorneys usually have a reputation because they specialize in criminal law and may require expensive retainers. Your reason for hiring a high profile attorney may be to intimidate your spouse or his attorney. The strategy rarely works.
You should interview the prospective attorney before deciding to hire him. After all, the attorney will be interviewing you to see if he or she can work with you and if you have the money to pay your bill.
Look for an attorney who is interested, empathetic and knowledgeable of the law.
Going through any litigation is stressful, even if you have a strong case and are the plaintiff. In fact, the one thing you will learn from going to court is to avoid, if at all possible, going to court. Even so called winners find the experience emotionally grueling. To lessen the stress, you may want your attorney's reassurance that he or she will win your case. Though your feelings are understandable, your attorney can only represent you on the strength of the evidence and the law. They cannot guarantee you that the judge will decide in your favor.
Because you are angry, you may think that hiring a big-name attorney will intimidate your spouse or the other attorney. This rarely happens. Most experienced attorneys know each other and are not intimidated by the opposing attorney. Any intimidation is usually the client's illusion and not shared by the attorney. In fact, be cautious when hiring a big-name attorney for a divorce case. Most big-name attorneys have gained their reputation from criminal rather than divorce cases. If the attorney takes your case, he or she will be very expensive and may have little interest in your case. I once watched a big-name attorney mistake the client's girlfriend as his client. He was embarrassed and apologized.
Know in Advance How Fees Are Determined. The least expensive hourly rate is not always the cheapest attorney. Ask the attorney about their hourly fees and what you are getting for the money. Many attorneys will charge for their time on the phone, doing research, or standing in line to file papers. You should know ahead of time what you are paying for so you are not surprised when you get the bill. Remember that attorneys are in business to make a living and are not a charitable institution
Monday, October 22, 2007
North Carolina Fishing Holes
Public Fishing Areas (PFA) have been created throughout the state to provide free fishing opportunities from the banks of North Carolina's lakes, rivers, streams and reservoirs. The Wildlife Resources Commission has enhanced fishing opportunities at PFAs by clearing banks of underbrush, and in some cases, by constructing handicapped-accessible fishing piers, creating graveled or paved parking lots, installing fish attractors, or baiting the areas with grain or fish feed.
Community Fishing Program (CFP) sites are located primarily in city- or county-owned parks, providing urban anglers fishing opportunities in intensively managed bodies of water. Community Fishing Program sites feature solar-powered fish feeders, handicapped-accessible fishing piers (at most CFPs), and periodic stockings of harvestable-sized channel catfish from April through September.
Coldwater Stocking by County
Coldwater Weekly Stocking Update
Warmwater Stocking List
Community Fishing Program Stocking List
Stocking your lake or pond
Fish Stocking Permit: Required for stocking fish, mollusks or crustaceans in inland, public fishing waters (public freshwaters).
How does the Wildlife Commission make decisions about stocking?
Fishing Seasons
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
North Carolina Zoo Events
North Carolina Zoo Events Oct 2007 - Dec 2008
Visit The North Carolina Zoo website
Special Events
KidZone ► Opening March 27, 2007 -
Hey kids! Do you enjoy looking for bugs, climbing and running or making mud pies? Would you like to learn how to grow and eat your name? Well, check out all the fun things you can do at the kidZone - a special place just for KIDS opening this spring at the North Carolina Zoo.
ZooFest ► October Saturdays, 2007 -
Fall festivals at the NC Zoo! Celebrations of the exotic, the endangered, and the mysterious for the young -- and young at heart
October 6 - Native American Art, Dance, Music and MysteryOctober 13 - African Art, Dance, Music and MysteryOctober 20 - HOWL-O-Ween – Hear the howls and tales of the Red Wolves.
October 27- 28 - BOO at the ZOO - A magical weekend featuring, games, music, face painting, treats, costume contest and plenty of Halloween fun.
Feb. 2
GROUNDHOG DAY
Join the fun as our groundhog predicts winter weather.
March 22
EGG-STRAVAGANZA
Watch Zoo animals search for holiday treats!
March 29 & 30
S.O.S. Save Our Snakes!
Come ssssssssee why snakes are so sssssssspecial!
April Saturdays
ZooFLING
Roar into Spring at the NC Zoo! Meet Zoo Keepers and discover the secrets to animal appetites, creature comforts, and wild lifestyles.
April 5, 6
Watani Grasslands Grand Opening Celebration – Have tons of fun exploring the new Elephant and Rhinoceros exhibit!
April 12
Feast of the Beasts
April 19, 20
Earth Day Celebration
April 26
Creature Comforts
May 10 & 11
BIRDS AND BLOOMS Not your garden variety Mother’s Day weekend!
May 10
Celebrate NC Zoo’s International Migratory Bird Day and explore more than 60,000 beautiful plants.
May 11
Bring Mom to the Zoo with online discount admission.
June Saturdays
BEE A BEAR
Explore life as a bear and catch the latest buzz on bees.
June 7
Polar Paws & Claws
June 14
Grizzly Walks and Talks
June 21, 22
Black Bears & Bees
Father’s Day
Bring Papa Bear to the Zoowith online discount admission.
June 28
Teddy Bear Fair
Bring your Teddy Bear for a check up with our zoo veterinarians.
August 9 & 10
ZooCOOL
Forecasters are calling for snow at the NC Zoo! Chill out as we show you how Zoo animals beat the heat.
ZooFEST
October Saturdays
Fall festivals at the NC Zoo!
Celebrations of the exotic, the endangered, and the mysterious.
October 4 - Native American Art, Dance, Music and Mystery
October 11 - African Art, Dance, Music and Mystery
October 18 - HOWL-O-Ween – Hearthe howls and tales of the Red Wolves.
October 25, 26 BOO at the ZOO - A magical weekend featuring games, music, face painting, treats, costume contests and plenty of Halloween fun.
BATOLOGY
November 1 & 2
Discover the good nature of bats at Sonora Desert . Watch Zoo Keepers feed the bats.
Visit The Carolina Community Resources Website for North Carolina businesses, Services and Real Estate Needs
North Carolina State Fairground Events
North Carolina State Fairground Events Oct 2007 - Dec 2008
NC State Fair Webcam
Source NC DA&CS: 2007- 2008 CalendarThis is a listing of the events staged at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds on a monthly basis. Included is the name of the event and building location. For more information please contact the Event promoter listed with the event or the Fairgrounds office at 919-821-7400 - Events Information Line - Extension 22 or Facility Rentals - Extension 4501. All events are subject to last minute changes.
October 2007
November 2007
December 2007
January 2008
February 2008
March 2008
April 2008
May 2008
June 2008
July 2008
August 2008
September 2008
October 2008
November 2008
December 2008
Hunt Horse Complex 2007 Calendar
Hunt Horse Complex 2008 Calendar
N.C. State Fair opening ceremony set for 11 a.m. Friday in Heritage Circle
(10-11-07)
RALEIGH – Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler and Fair Manager Wesley Wyatt will officially open the 2007 N.C. State Fair at 11 a.m. Friday at the old tobacco barn in Heritage Circle. The ceremony will feature music by the Wells Family.
N.C. State Fair has a green feel (10-10-07)
RALEIGH – During the N.C. State Fair, the fairgrounds in West Raleigh can best be compared to a small city. With good weather, more than 750,000 people will likely cross through the gates during the Fair’s 10-day run. Like most cities in North Carolina today, the Fair will be doing its part for water conservation, and it will also feature a number of other environmentally friendly measures. Read More>>
Pittsboro mother-son crafters will be featured at the N.C. State Fair (10-2-07)
RALEIGH—Similar to a colonial village of years gone by, the Village of Yesteryear crafters gather at the N.C. State Fair each year to showcase their wares. This family reunion of sorts is bound by a love for craftsmanship and early American working handicrafts. Among the many items available for sale and display are Native American pottery, carvings, beadwork, stained glass, wooden utensils, toys, woven goods and more. Read More>>
Alternative transportation information updated (9-24-07)
Just added! Ride TTA to the Fair on Saturdays from Chapel Hill or RTP!
Seriously Twisted Fun planned for 2007 State Fair (9-13-07)
RALEIGH – Fairgoers will find plenty of tried-and-true attractions to go along with some new twists on fun at the N.C. State Fair Oct. 12-21. Read More>>
Subway, N.C. State Fair launch Seriously Twisted Sub contest (9-13-07)
N.C. State Fair plans to recognize seniors, military; hosting several special events (8-30-07)
Visit The Carolina Community Resources Website for North Carolina businesses, Services and Real Estate Needs
Thursday, October 4, 2007
North Carolina Newspapers
North Carolina Newspapers
Ahoskie Roanoke-Chowan News Herald
Albemarle The Stanly News & Press
Andrews The Andrews Journal
Asheboro The Courier Tribune
Asheville Asheville Citizen-Times
Asheville Mountain Xpress
Asheville W. Carolina Business Journal
Black Mountain Black Mountain News
Boone The Mountain Times
Boone Watauga Democrat
Bryson City Smoky Mountain Times
Burlington Times-News
Carolina Beach Island Gazette
Cary The Cary News
Cashiers Crossroads Chronicle
Chapel Hill Chapel Hill News
Charlotte Business Journal of Charlotte
Charlotte Charlotte Observer
Charlotte Charlotte Post
Charlotte Charlotte Weekly
Charlotte Creative Loafing
Charlotte La Noticia
Charlotte Mecklenburg Times
Charlotte Periódico Mi Gente
Charlotte Que Pasa
Charlotte Rhino Times
Clayton The Clayton News-Star
Clemmons The Clemmons Courier
Clinton The Sampson Independent
Columbus Polk County News-Journal
Concord Independent Tribune
Creedmoor Butner-Creedmoor News
Denton The Denton Orator
Denver http://www.newsatnorman.com/
Dunn The Daily Record
Durham The Herald-Sun
Durham The Independent
Eden Daily News
Elizabeth City The Daily Advance
Elizabethtown The Bladen Journal
Elkin The Tribune (
Fayetteville Acento Latino
Fayetteville Fayetteville Observer
Forest City Daily Courier
Franklin Macon County News
Franklin The Franklin Press
Fremont Wayne Wilson News Leader
Fuquay Varina Fuquay-Varina Independent
Garner The Garner News
Gastonia The Gaston Gazette
Goldsboro The News-Argus
Greensboro Carolina Peacemaker
Greensboro The Business Journal
Greensboro The News and Record
Greensboro Yes! Weekly
Greenville The Daily Reflector
Hampstead Topsail Voice
Havelock Havelock News
Henderson The Daily Dispatch
Hendersonville Times News
Hickory Hickory Daily Record
High Point High Point Enterprise
Highlands The Highlander
Hillsborough The News of Orange County
Huntersville Huntersville Herald
Jacksonville Jacksonville Daily News
Jamestown The Jamestown News
Kannapolis Independent Tribune
Kenly The Kenly News
Kernersville Kernersville News
Kinston The Free Press
Laurinburg Laurinburg Exchange
Lenoir Lenoir News Topic
Lexington The Dispatch
Lincolnton Lincoln Times-News
Locust The Weekly Post
Lumberton The Robesonian
Madison The Madison Messenger
Marion McDowell News
Mebane Mebane Enterprise
Mocksville The Enterprise-Record(A) (C)
Monroe The Enquirer-Journal
Mooresville Lake Norman Times
Mooresville Mooresville Tribune
Morehead City Carteret Co News-Times
Morganton The News Herald
Mount Airy Mount Airy News
Mount Olive Mount Olive Tribune
Murphy The Cherokee Scout
Nags Head Outer Banks Sentinel
New Bern Sun Journal
Newland Avery Journal
Newton Observer News Enterprise
North Wilkesboro The Record
North Wilkesboro Wilkes Journal-Patriot
Oriental The Pamlico News
Pittsboro Chatham Journal
Princeton Princeton News Leader
Raeford The News-Journal
Raleigh News and Observer
Raleigh Que Pasa
Raleigh The Raleigh Chronicle
Raleigh Triangle Business Journal
Reidsville The Reidsville Review
Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald
Robbinsville The Graham Star
Rockingham Richmond County Daily Journal
Rocky Mount Rocky Mount Telegram
Roxboro Courier Times
Salisbury Salisbury Post
Sanford The Sanford Herald
Shallotte The Brunswick Beacon
Shelby The Shelby Star
Siler City The Chatham News
Smithfield The Smithfield Herald
Southern Pines The Pilot
Sparta The Alleghany News
Spruce Pine News-Journal
Statesville Statesville Record & Landmark
Swansboro Tideland News
Sylva Herald and Ruralite
Tarboro The Daily Southerner
Taylorsville Taylorsville Times
Thomasville Thomasville Times
Troy The Montgomery Herald
Tryon The Tryon Daily Bulletin
Wadesboro The Anson Record
Wadesboro The Express Newspaper
Wake Forest The Wake Weekly
Warrenton The Warren Record
Washington Daily News
Waynesville Smoky Mountain News
Waynesville The Mountaineer
West Jefferson Jefferson Post
Whiteville The News Reporter
Wilmington Star-News Online
Wilson Wilson Daily Times
Winston Salem Que Pasa
Winston Salem The Chronicle
Winston Salem Winston-Salem Journal
Wrightsville Beach The Lumina News
Yadkinville The Yadkin Ripple
Yanceyville The Caswell Messenger
Zebulon Eastern Wake News
College Newspapers
A & T State The A & T Register
Appalachian State The Appalachian
Chowan College Chowan Connections
Davidson College The Davidsonian
Duke Univ The Chronicle
E. Carolina Univ Greenville East Carolinian
Elon College The Pendulum
Guilford College The Guilfordian
Lenoir-Rhyne Lenoir-Rhynean
Mars Hill College The Hilltop
Montreat College The Whetstone
NC Central University Campus Echo
NC State Raleigh Technician Online
Univ NC Asheville The Blue Banner
Univ NC Chapel Hill The Daily Tar Heel
Univ NC Charlotte The Niner Online
Univ NC Pembroke The Pine Needle
Univ NC Wilmington The Seahawk
Wake Forest Old Gold and Black
Western Carolina Univ Western Carolinian
Magazines
Appalachian Highways
Sportfishing Report
Up & Coming Weekly
NC Online Directory Website
North Carolina Community Resources
Friday, September 28, 2007
Best Hiking Trails In North Carolina
Best Hiking Trails In North Carolina
#1. Black Mountain Crest
An inspiring overnight backpack or shorter day hike across the Black Mountains, with summits all well above 6.000 feet. Views are astounding along this sparsely vegetated ridge, plummeting 4000 feet
Asheville, NC - Hiking - 12 miles (About Top Trails)
#2. Mount Mitchell
Mt. Mitchell—the highest peak east of the Mississippi—is a crowning part of the Blue Ridge Parkway experience. The only motorized access to the mountain is from the Parkway, at Milepost 355.3,
From the guidebook "Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway"
Asheville, NC - Hiking - 12 miles (About Top Trails)
#3. Uwharrie National Forest
Wonderful, woodsy circuit hikes in Uwharrie National Forest, some of substantial length. The Uwharrie and Dutchmans Creek trails form a figure eight
From the guidebook "Hiking North Carolina"
Asheboro, NC - Hiking - 20.1 miles (About Top Trails)
#4. Mount Pisgah Area Trails
Driving the Parkway from Asheville to Mt. Pisgah is a humbling experience —especially if you stopped by Biltmore House and Gardens on the way through town.
Brevard, NC - Hiking - 6.4 miles (About Top Trails)
#5. Appalachian Trail: Clingmans Dome to Spence Field
This hike is a long, difficult, beautiful hike, and by the end, you will have your own definition of a southern Appalachian knob.
Cades Cove, NC - Hiking - 22.1 miles (About Top Trails)
#6. Appalachian Trail - Southern Balds Section
An inspiring hike on the Appalachian Trail (AT) over the mountaintop meadows called the Southern Balds. As a whole, this is a wonderful but strenuous backpacking trip. Hikers can also make day hikes
From the guidebook "Hiking North Carolina"
Bakersville, NC - Hiking - 13 miles (About Top Trails)
#7. Appalachian Trail: Allen Gap to Devil Fork Gap
The northern half of this hike borders the Bald Mountain Ridge Scenic Area in the Cherokee National Forest, and the AT runs along a rugged, isolated crest. Outstanding view
Hot Springs, NC - Hiking - 20.2 miles (About Top Trails)
#8. Gregory Bald Overnight Loop
This hike combines the best that the high and low country have to offer. First, you'll travel up the Twentymile Trail past Twentymile Cascades to the Upper Flats streamside camp.
Fontana Village, NC - Hiking - 15.7 miles (About Top Trails)
#9. Craggy Gardens
A more than mile-high area of crags and bald mountains with a variety of hikes, easy to moderate, with spectacular vistas and a waterfall. General location: Blue Ridge Parkway
Asheville, NC - Hiking - 6.2 miles (About Top Trails)
#10. Shining Rock Wilderness
Hikes to bald summits and evergreen forests of the Shining Rock wilderness. Most of these hikes begin on the Graveyard Trail, a less-used and scenic route. General location: Blue Ridge Parkway
From the guidebook "Hiking North Carolina"
Asheville, NC - Hiking - 9 miles (About Top Trails)
#11. Linville Gorge Wilderness
A 12,002-acre tract of designated wilderness, Linville Gorge lies between Jonas Ridge to the east and Linville Mountain to the west. The Blue Ridge Parkway skirts the head of the gorge From the guidebook "Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway"
Crossnore, NC - Hiking - 14 miles (About Top Trails)
#12. Andrews Bald
This is one of the Smokies' finest hikes. The trip passes through an extraordinary spruce-fir forest to the grassy field of Andrews Bald. Resplendent with stunning view
Cherokee, NC - Hiking - 3.6 miles (About Top Trails)
#13. Shining Rock Wilderness
As you drive south out of Asheville and climb past Mt. Pisgah, the Shining Rock Wilderness can’t help but catch your attention.
Brevard, NC - Hiking - 8.8 miles (About Top Trails)
#14. Bartram Trail
An outstanding ridge walk, perfect for backpacking or day hiking. The graded trail traverses a rarely visited ridge and spectacular summits. General location: North of Highlands....
From the guidebook "Hiking North Carolina"
Highlands, NC - Hiking - 8.5 miles (About Top Trails)
#15. Appalachian Trail:
Roan Mountain is a place of mystery, legend, wild beauty, and superlatives. The largest of the southern Appalachian grassy balds
Bakersville, NC - Hiking - 5.6 miles (About Top Trails)
#16. Appalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to US 19E
Wide-open spaces, miles of waving grass, alpine wildflowers … Is this the southern Appalachians? Botanist Asa Gray observed in the 1880s that he could ride his horse for 14 miles on Roan Mountain
From the guidebook "Exploring the Appalachian Trail: Hikes in the Southern Appalachians"
Roan Mountain, TN - Hiking - 13.4 miles (About Top Trails)
#17. Appalachian Trail: Davenport Gap to Max Patch
Because of distance and several long ups and downs, the rating on this hike is "strenuous," but in general the grade is good with no difficult or rough spots. From the guidebook "Exploring the Appalachian Trail: Hikes in the Southern Appalachians"
Waterville, NC - Hiking - 16 miles (About Top Trails)
#18. Graveyard Fields Loop Trail
A loop that reaches two waterfalls and explores a high, alpine-like valley. A second circuit involves a new portion of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.
Brevard, NC - Hiking - 9.5 miles
#19. Fontana Lake Overnight Loop
If you like a combination of mountains and lakes, this moderate hike is for you and any younger or inexperienced backpackers you may wish to bring along.
Fontana Village, NC - Hiking - 17.7 miles
#20. Appalachian Trail: Deep Gap to Timber Ridge Trail
At 5498 feet, Standing Indian Mountain is the highest point south of the Smokies and the southernmost mile-high peak on the AT. However, the trail climbs gradually with switchbacks
From the guidebook "Exploring the Appalachian Trail: Hikes in the Southern Appalachians"
Franklin, NC - Hiking - 10.4 miles
Thursday, September 13, 2007
North Carolina- NC- Top 20 Best Scenic Drives
North Carolina- NC- Top 20 Best Scenic Drives
#1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This park is close to major population centers, but its lush greenery and pleasantly rounded peaks create a soothing aura of tranquillity.
#2. Blue Ridge Parkway: Asheville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A 75-mile paved section of one of the most famous routes in America, following the dramatic crest of the Pisgah and Great Balsam Mountains to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Asheville, NC - Scenic Drives - 75 miles (About Top Trails)
#3. Uwharrie Mountains: Uwharrie National Forest
A 34-mile paved and gravel route that winds through the ancient Uwharrie Mountains and the Uwharrie National Forest, past rivers, a lake, a covered bridge, and many hiking opportunities. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Eldorado, NC - Scenic Drives - 34 miles
#4. Mountain Waters Scenic Byway
A 61.3-mile paved route through the southern Appalachian Mountains, with whitewater river gorges, hardwood forests, and rural farm country. The Mountain Waters Scenic Byway traverses beautiful mountains. From the guidebook "National Forest Scenic Byways East & South"
Highlands, NC - Scenic Drives - 61.3 miles
#5. Mountain Waters Scenic Byway: Highlands to the Nantahala River Gorge
A 61-mile paved route that winds through some of the most spectacular country in the Nantahala National Forest, including multiple waterfalls, a roaring whitewater river, and tremendous mountaintop views. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Franklin, NC - Scenic Drives - 61 miles
#6. Whitewater Falls: Highlands to Rosman
A 41-mile paved route through the resort towns of Highlands, Cashiers, and Lake Toxaway via Whitewater Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Cashiers, NC - Scenic Drives - 41 miles
#7. Bentonville Battleground: Cliffs of the Neuse State Park to Bentonville Battleground
A 33-mile paved route from a state park with cliffs (surprising for the coastal plain) to Bentonville Battleground, the site of the last major Confederate offensive of the Civil War. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Goldsboro, NC - Scenic Drives - 33 miles
#8. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest to Tennessee State Line
A 25-mile paved road through beautiful, undeveloped Nantahala National Forest, including old-growth trees at Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and tremendous views from the crest of the Unicoi Mountains. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Robbinsville, NC - Scenic Drives - 25 miles
#9. Crowders Mountain: Kings Mountain National Military Park, SC to Crowders Mountain
A short, paved 10-mile route chock-full of interesting sights, including a Revolutionary War battlefield, two state parks, a living history farm just over the border in South Carolina. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Gastonia, NC - Scenic Drives - 10 miles
#10. Linville Gorge: Pisgah National Forest near Linville Falls
A 19-mile gravel and paved route that encircles rugged Linville Gorge. This drive partially encircles Linville Gorge, a yawning chasm where the Linville River tumbles 2,000 feet in 14 miles. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Linville Falls, NC - Scenic Drives - 19 miles
#11. Blowing Rock: Blowing Rock to Roseboro
A 26-mile paved and gravel road from the busy resort town of Blowing Rock deep into the tranquil Pisgah National Forest and past the tiny communities of Globe, Edgemont, Mortimer, and Roseboro. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Blowing Rock, NC - Scenic Drives - 26 miles
#12. Newfound Gap & Clingmans Dome: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A 24-mile paved road that climbs from the base of the Great Smoky Mountains to the highest peak, past historic sites, rushing mountain streams, numerous overlooks, and lush forest. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Bryson City, NC - Scenic Drives - 24 miles
#13. Hanging Rock: Pilot Mountain to Hanging Rock
A 24-mile paved road between two prominent remnants of the ancient Sauratown Mountains, often called “the mountains away from the mountains” because of their isolation from the Blue Ridge. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Mount Airy, NC - Scenic Drives - 24 miles
#14. Green Swamp: Clarkton to Supply
A 44-mile drive across a very lightly developed area of the coastal plain, past the interesting Green Swamp. This is a low-key trip across a very lightly developed section of the coastal plain. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Supply, NC - Scenic Drives - 44 miles
#15. Heintooga-Round Bottom Road: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A 35-mile paved and gravel road through a scenic but lightly visited part of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Cherokee, NC - Scenic Drives - 35 miles
#16. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge to Hatteras
A 48-mile drive past the seemingly endless beaches and dunes of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, with a visit to a wildlife refuge and what is probably the best-known lighthouse in America. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Waves, NC - Scenic Drives - 48 miles
#17. Overhill Skyway
A winding, 44-mile paved route through the southern Appalachian Mountains, through the ancestral territories of the Cherokee Indian nation. This route is also called the Cherohala Skyway. From the guidebook "National Forest Scenic Byways East & South"
Tellico Plains, TN - Scenic Drives - 44 miles
#18. Elk Falls: Vilas to Elk Falls
A 25-mile mostly paved road through rugged mountains, past a historic general store to a large, accessible waterfall. This drive follows a winding route through the mountains west of Boone. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Banner Elk, NC - Scenic Drives - 25 miles
#19. Forest Heritage Scenic Drive: Pisgah National Forest near Brevard
A 65-mile paved road through the heart of the Pisgah Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest, past waterfalls, historic sites, mountain overlooks, and miles of lush, undeveloped forest. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Brevard, NC - Scenic Drives - 65 miles
#20. Roan Mountain: Spruce Pine to Roan Mountain
A 25-mile paved route from the historic mining town of Spruce Pine to the extensive rhododendron gardens on the summit of Roan Mountain. From the guidebook "Scenic Driving North Carolina"
Spruce Pine, NC - Scenic Drives - 25 miles
Monday, July 30, 2007
Top USA Beach for 2007: Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach Outer Banks, NC
Top USA Beach for 2007: Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach Outer Banks, NC
The national winner of America's Top Beaches for 2007 is Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach, located on Ocracoke Island at the southern end of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Known for its laid back atmosphere, unadorned picturesque beauty, abundant wildlife and quaint village center, Ocracoke Island is located at the southern end of the North Carolina Outer Banks.
This is the first year in the history of the list that a beach outside of Florida or Hawaii has been selected as the national winner. In addition, three Florida beaches on are the 2007 list, along with three in the Northeast, two in Hawaii, and one in California, making the Southeastern United States the clear overall winning region for 2007.
Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, known throughout the United States and internationally as Dr. Beach, is regarded as the country's leading authority on beach quality and ratings. A Ph.D. coastal scientist, professor of environmental studies and Director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University and acclaimed author, Dr. Leatherman is perhaps best known for his annual America's Best Beaches Top 10 List.
Dr. Leatherman's first Top Beach list was issued in 1991. Since then, every year around Memorial Day, beach goers and beach communities anxiously await his latest list of the ten best public recreational beaches for swimming, walking, scenery, sports, and other activities. Beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean are objectively evaluated using a rating scale that covers 50 different criteria, ranging from beach width, sand quality, water temperature and strengths of currents to human impact issues such as lifeguards, the presence of litter and undesirable noise
The complete list of the ten America's Top Beaches for 2007 includes:
Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach - Outer Banks, North Carolina - National Winner
Caladesi Island State Park - Dunedin/Clearwater, Florida
Coopers Beach, Southampton - New York
Hanalei Bay, Kauai - Hawaii
Coast Guard Beach - Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Hamoa Beach, Maui - Hawaii
Main Beach - East Hampton, New York
Coronado Beach - San Diego, California
Lighthouse Point Park - Daytona Beach, Florida
Siesta Beach - Sarasota, Florida
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Alamance County, North Carolina
Alamance County, NC Facts and Information
Alamance County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It coincides with the Burlington, North Carolina Metropolitan Statistical Area. Formed in 1849 from Orange County to the east, Alamance County has been the site of significant historical events, textiles, manufacturing, and agriculture in North Carolina.
As of 2006, the estimated population of the county and MSA was 142,661. Its county seat is Graham.
Before being formed as a county, the region had at least one known small Southeastern tribe of Native American in the 1700s - the Sissipahaw who lived in the area bound by modern Saxapahaw, Hawfields and Haw River locations in the county European Americans entered the region largely following Native American trading paths that became the basis of the railroad and interstate highway routes[4]. The county was formed January 29, 1849 from Orange County. It was named after Great Alamance Creek, site of the Battle of Alamance (May 16, 1771), in which militia under the command of Governor William Tryon crushed the Regulator movement. The Great Alamance Creek, and in turn the Little Alamance Creek, according to legend, were named after a local Native American word to describe the blue mud that was found at the bottom of the creeks.
Several other small battles occurred during the American Revolution in the Alamance County area during the lead-up to the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, including Pyle's Massacre and the Battle of Lindley's Mill, and the Battle of Clapp's Mill.
Civil War and aftermath
In 1861, the United States began to fragment due to growing questions of states' rights concerning issues of money, agriculture, representation, and slavery. In February of that year, a peace conference was held in Washington, DC. North Carolina sent five delegates to this conference, including Chief Justice Thomas Ruffin of Haw River, an Alamance County community. Justice Ruffin was opposed to secession, but was voted down. Later on, President Buchanan said that if Ruffin had persisted, the war might have been averted. In March, 1861, Alamance County residents voted against North Carolina's secession from the Union, 1,114 to 254. Hostilities would later prove that vote moot.
Alamance County joined the rest of North Carolina as the state split off from the Union and joined the Confederate States. Although no battles took place in the county itself, Alamance County did send its share of sons and brothers to the front lines. Only in the last months of the war did the residents of the county see a significant number of troops. Most important of these events was when President Jefferson Davis dictated a note to General Johnston for Union General Sherman. General Johnston delivered that note, stopping in Company Shops to drop off some of the last of his men.
Alamance County Courthouse in Graham, NC.Some of the most significant effects of the Civil War were seen after the war. Alamance County briefly became a center of natioanl attention when, in 1870, a confrontation between local residents and an apparently corrupt Army colonel led to several people being wrongfully accused and arrested for various crimes. Only after involvement by a U. S. District Judge were these men and women freed and cleared of crimes. This event came to be known as the Kirk-Holden War, and it lead to the impeachment and removal of Governor William Holden by the North Carolina Legislature in 1871.
Textiles
The Holt family began the textile industry in the county in the 1800s. Textiles became the county's largest source of industry and nearly every community in the county contained a textile mill by the early 1900s. Most of the mills were located along the Haw River which provided a cheap easy source of energy. Glencoe, Saxapahaw, Swepsonville, Bellemont, Alamance, Haw River and Burlington all contained textile mills and all these communities were located on the Haw River or tributaries of the river. The Holt's became famous for producing "Alamance Plaids" used mainly in tablecloths. Most of the plants have now gone out of business. Burlington was, also, home to Burlington Industries.
Dairy industry
The county was once the state leader in dairy production. Several dairies including Melville Dairy in Burlington were headquartered in the county. With increasing real estate prices and a slump in milk prices, most dairy farms have been sold and many of them developed for real estate purposes.
Airplanes and radars
During World War II Fairchild built airplanes at a plant on the eastern side of Burlington. Among the planes built at the plant were the AT-21 gunner used to train bomber pilots. Near the Fairchild plant was the Western Electric Burlington works. The plant built radar equipment and guidance systems for missiles on top of many other electronics for the government. The guidance system for the Titan missile was built there. The plant was closed in 1992 and sat abandoned until 2005, when it was purchased by a local businessman for manufacturing
Politics
Alamance County has provided North Carolina with three of its governors and two U. S. Senators: Governor Thomas Holt, Governor and U. S. Senator Kerr Scott, Governor Robert W. (Bob) Scott (Kerr Scott's son), and U. S. Senator B. Everett Jordan.
Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 1,126 km² (435 mi²). 1,114 km² (430 mi²) of it is land and 12 km² (5 mi²) of it (1.10%) is water.
The county is in the Piedmont physiographical region. The county has a general rolling terrain with the Cane Creek Mountains rising to over 970 ft.[7] in the south central part of the county just north of Snow Camp. Bass Mountain one of the prominent hills in the range is home to a world renowned Bluegrass music festival every year. There are also isolated monadnocks in the northern part of the county that rise to near or over 900 ft. above sea level.
The largest river that flows through Alamance County is the Haw River, which eventually feeds into Jordan Lake in Chatham County, eventually leading to the Cape Fear River. The county is also home to numerous creeks, streams, and ponds, including the Great Alamance Creek, where a portion of the Battle of Alamance was fought. There are 3 large municipal reservoirs: Lake Cammack, Lake Mackintosh, and Graham-Mebane Lake (formerly Quaker Lake).
ARTS
Paramount Theater serves as the center of dramatic presentations in the community.
Old Dam at Cedarock Park
Alamance County, Burlington, Graham, Elon, Haw River, Swepsonville, and Mebane all have other small parks that are not listed here. Major parks include:
Alamance County
Cedarock Park, located 6 miles south of the Intersection of Interstate 85/40 and NC Highway 49. Cedarock Park is home to the Cedarock Historic Farm, an Old Mill Dam, and 2 Disc Golf Courses.
City of Burlington
City Park, located in Burlington off of U.S. Highway 70 (Church Street), and is home to a Dentzel Carousel built between 1906 and 1910 and several train-based rides, signifying Burlington's place in history as the Company Shops Train Depot.
Indian Valley Golf Course, an 18-hole operated by the City of Burlington
Lake Mackintosh Marina, located off of Huffman Mill Rd.
ECONOMY
Today, Alamance County is often described as a "bedroom" community, with many residents living in the county and working elsewhere due to low tax rates, although the county is still a major player in the textile and manufacturing industries.
The current county-wide tax rate for Alamance County residents is 57.5 cents per $100 valuation. This does not include tax rates imposed by municipalities or fire districts.
Demographics
As of the census² of 2000, there were 130,800 people, 51,584 households, and 35,541 families residing in the county. The population density was 117/km² (304/mi²). There were 55,463 housing units at an average density of 50/km² (129/mi²). The racial makeup of the county was 75.61% White, 18.76% Black or African American, 0.35% Native American, 0.90% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 3.19% from other races, and 1.16% from two or more races. 6.75% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.
There were 51,584 households out of which 31.10% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.10% were married couples living together, 12.70% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.10% were non-families. 26.00% of all households were made up of individuals and 10.10% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.95.
In the county the population was spread out with 23.80% under the age of 18, 9.90% from 18 to 24, 29.90% from 25 to 44, 22.30% from 45 to 64, and 14.10% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females there were 92.50 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.00 males.
The median income for a household in the county was $39,168, and the median income for a family was $46,479. Males had a median income of $31,906 versus $23,367 for females. The per capita income for the county was $19,391. About 7.60% of families and 11.10% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.30% of those under age 18 and 12.90% of those age 65 or over.
Famous People From Alamance County NC
Jacob Brent, born in Graham, starred as Mr. Mistoffelees in the broadway and home video version of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats.
Billy Bryan, Center for the Denver Broncos from 1977-1988 grew up in Burlington.
Several generations of Alex Haley's family may have lived in Alamance County as noted in his 1976 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Roots: The Saga of an American Family - coming from Africa to Virginia, to Caswell County to Alamance County and moving to Tennessee after the Emancipation Proclamation
Governor Thomas Holt, Governor of North Carolina from 1891-1893.
John "John Boy" Isley born and raised in Graham, is "John Boy" of the John Boy and Billy Show broadcast on radio stations around the nation.
Charley Jones, born in Alamance County, major league baseball player
U. S. Senator B. Everett Jordan, U. S. Senator (Class 2) from 1958-1973
Don Kernodle, born in Burlington, wrestler who appeared in Paradise Alley with Sylvester Stallone
Jack McKeon, Manager of the 2003 World Series champion Florida Marlins has lived in Alamance County.
Blanche Taylor Moore, a convicted murderer whose life story was portrayed in the television movie "Black Widow: The Blanche Taylor Moore Story", starring Elizabeth Montgomery.
Agriculture Commissioner Meg Scott Phipps, North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner (2001-2003)
Tequan Richmond, born in Burlington, stars as Drew Rock in Everybody Hates Chris, and played a young Ray Charles in the movie Ray
Governor Robert W. (Bob) Scott (Kerr Scott's son), Governor of North Carolina from 1969-1973
Governor and U. S. Senator Kerr Scott, Governor of North Carolina from 1949-1953, U. S. Senator (Class 2) from 1954-1958
Nash County, North Carolina
Nash County, NC Facts and Information
Nash County was formed in 1777 from the western part of Edgecombe County. Located in the northeast section of the state, it is bounded by Edgecombe, Wilson, Johnston, Franklin, and Halifax counties. It was named for General Francis Nash (1742-77), of Hillsborough, a soldier who was mortally wounded while fighting under General George Washington at Germantown during the American Revolution. Nashville, the county seat, was settled in 1780 and chartered in 1815. First land grants in the area date back to 1743.
Nash County has a total area of 542.71 square miles, with 540.33 square miles of land area. The average temperature is 61.9 degrees with the average temperature in January of 39° F and the average July temperature of 78° F. The average rainfall is 43 inches. The elevation of Nash County is 180 feet above sea level.
After the Revolution, which touched the county only lightly, Nash County settled down to a pace that made it one of the State's leading farm areas. Since the Civil War, it has been known primarily as a leading agricultural county, but it has experienced steady industrial growth since that time. Currently, only 2.4% of the total employment within the county is classified as agricultural. However, Nash County ranks 8th in area devoted to farmland in North Carolina.
Nash County could be classified as either a northern coastal plain county or a far eastern piedmont county. It has a primarily rolling terrain with sandy soil, however, brick and tile clays are found along the Tar River, which flows through Nash County and Rocky Mount. A granite belt is located relatively close to the surface and extends westward from the city for about 20 miles.
The average rainfall in Nash County is 43 inches. The average temperature is 61.9 degrees with the January average temperature 39 degrees Fahrenheit and the average July temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nash County Population
According to the most recent census results, the population of Nash County in 2000 was 87,420 making it the 30th largest county in the state. The largest city within the county is Rocky Mount, with a population of 55,893 according to the most recent census results, population of the Rocky Mount MSA was 145,571. Other Nash County towns and their latest census counts are:
Nashville - 4,309
Red Oak - 2,723
Sharpsburg - 2,421
Spring Hope - 1,261
Middlesex - 838
Dortches - 809
Whitakers - 799
Bailey - 670
Castalia - 340
Momeyer - 291
Nash County has an abundant water supply from the Tar River and its tributary creeks. A 1,400 acre reservoir on the Tar River, southwest of Rocky Mount, was completed in 1971. In addition to ensuring an abundant water supply, it offers attractive recreational areas with fishing, water skiing and boating.
HEALTH CARE
Nash Health Care Systems encompasses Nash General Hospital, Nash Day Hospital, Coastal Plain Hospital & Counseling Center and Bryant T. Aldridge Rehabilitation Center. Nash General Hospital, a 300-bed acute care facility, was opened in 1971. This seven-story facility was the first hospital in the state to have all-private rooms. Expansion has created Nash Day Hospital, the first freestanding outpatient facility in the nation. Nash Day offers radiology, radiation oncology, surgery, rehabilitation, laboratory and endoscopy services. Nash Day is also home to the Rocky Mount Heartburn Treatment Center, a nationally recognized center of excellence for the treatment of heartburn. Coastal Plain Hospital & Psychiatric Center is a 50-bed psychiatric care and substance abuse center. Opened in November 1999, Aldridge Rehab Center is a 23-bed comprehensive rehabilitation state-of-the-art facility featuring a therapeutic swimming pool and gymnasium as well as an innovative walking garden. The number for Nash Health Care Systems is (252) 443-8000.
Edgecombe-Nash Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities/Substance Abuse Services is located at 500 Nash Medical Arts Mall on the Nash General Hospital campus. This agency provides and/or makes referrals to private vendors for a number of services for individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities and substance abuse needs. These include outpatient therapy, emergency services, consultation and education, case management; Referral to inpatient psychiatric services for children, adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals who are acutely mentally ill; Referral to Inpatient hospitalization detoxification services for individuals who are alcohol or drug abusers; referral to Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program for consumers with severe and persistent mental illness; Adult developmental activity program (ADAP) for individuals who are developmentally disabled; Alcohol and drug education traffic schools (ADETS), Drug education schools (DES) and Inpatient hospitalization detoxification services for individuals who are alcohol or drug abusers; Provision of and referral to either social setting, non-hospital medical, or outpatient detoxification services for individuals who are alcoholics as well as forensic services for individuals of all disability groups. Their phone number is (252) 937-8141.
TRANSPORTATION
Nash County features a range of transportation facilities. Served by the main line of the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad, along the eastern boundary, the Nash County Railroad serves the central portion of the county and the southern portion of the county is served by Norfolk and Southern Railroad. The county is also served by a network of major highways including US Highways 301, 264, 64; Interstate 95 and state highways 97, 48, 58, and 44. There are also numerous motor freight carrier terminals in the Rocky Mount area.
Regional air service as well as shuttle service to Raleigh-Durham International Airport is provided by the Rocky Mount-Wilson Regional Airport which opened in 1970. Located on NC Highway 97, RWI is just a short drive of 6.5 miles from Rocky Mount and only minutes from industrial traffic routes.
Carolina Trailways, a regional bus company that has been operating in North Carolina since the 1920s, now owned by Greyhound, provides scheduled intercity bus service to the Rocky Mount Terminal.
North Carolina's state-supported Carolinian and Piedmont trains and Amtrak's north-south Silver Meteor, Silver Palm and Silver Star trains have scheduled daily service to the Rocky Mount train station.
Nash-Edgecombe Transportation Service (NETS) provides subscription and dial-a-ride transportation for rural residents of Nash County. Dial-A-Ride transportation services (DARTS), operates dial-a-ride paratransit service for certain authorized residents of the City of Rocky Mount who begin and end their trips within 3/4 mile of Rocky Mount Transit's fixed routes.
Rocky Mount Transit operates fixed-route buses for the city of Rocky Mount.
EDUCATION
Rocky Mount is the home of North Carolina Wesleyan College. This four-year co-educational liberal arts college began operations in 1960 on a 200-acre campus. Shaw University of Raleigh has a center in Rocky Mount and offers a component of liberal arts instruction. The Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools serve 17,480 students from 28 campuses including three consolidated high schools and one alternative high school.
Private and parochial schools are also available in the area. Our Lady of Perpetual Help enrolls approximately 250 students in the P-7 program. Falls Road Baptist School, Grace Christian School, NEW Christian Academy, The Enfield Academy and the Rocky Mount Academy are K-12 programs enrolling approximately 1,100 students.
Nash County's continuing educational needs are being met by Nash Community College, offering a full curriculum in vocational college transfer courses as well as providing free literacy and basic skills education to adults. Their program includes courses in trades and industry, business administration, information technology, nursing and secretarial science.
North Carolina State University and East Carolina University are an easy one-hour drive from Nash County.
CULTURAL
The Rocky Mount Arts and Crafts Center offers unique opportunities in the visual and performing arts for the Nash County area. The Center contains an art gallery, theater, classrooms and an art studio. Regular art exhibits, courses in interior design, painting, sculpture, ceramics, crewel, theater-related courses and other arts and crafts activities are offered to all ages.
The area's cultural activities are also enhanced by the Community Concert Series of Symphony Orchestras, the North Carolina Wesleyan Concert Series and professional plays at North Carolina Wesleyan College.
Braswell Library houses houses Adult Collections and Resources with over 23,000 fiction, 33,000 nonfiction, and 2,500 reference titles, 370 periodical holdings, 2400 audio and 700 videos. The Children's and Youth Collections and Resources holds over 19,000 fiction, 11,000 nonfiction, and 560 reference titles and over 1000 videos and 1,000 cassette titles plus 30 magazines. A Spanish language collection of books, audio and videos has over 400 titles. The Nash County Bookmobile maintains an on-board collection that numbers between 2,500 and 3,000 titles, and the shelves back at their library office hold another 6,500 or so. The Bookmobile borrows from Braswell's circulating collection when necessary.
The Spring Hope Historical museum is sponsored and maintained by the Spring Hope Historical Association and is dedicated to the premise that a preservation of the past is a true legacy for the generations to come. Located on Main St., Spring Hope, NC.
RECREATIONAL
Nash County and Rocky Mount also have abundant recreational opportunities. The Tar River Reservoir provides an excellent place for all water-related sports. Fine hunting and fishing are found within the community and throughout eastern North Carolina.
The city of Rocky Mount and Nashville boast facilities for recreational programs in tennis, softball and picnicking. Rocky Mount's Sunset Park has many parks and playgrounds, a miniature train, carousel and city zoo. There are many activities at this park including a miniature train, historic carousel, picnic shelters, lighted tennis courts, a softball field, and lighted basketball courts. Recent additions include Spray Park - a one-of-a-kind attraction featuring 10 computer controlled water spray fountains within a traditional playground structure, and Skate Park for skate boarding enthusiasts. Other local municipalities provide various recreational programs for their residents as well.
Since 1954, the City of Rocky Mount Children's Museum has provided an educational program for young people by interpreting and exhibiting significant objects and enriching their lives through the development of proper attitudes through creative outlets. An emphasis is placed on providing children with "hands on" experiences of the latest technological advances possible as well as giving them an understanding of the history that led us to these advances. The museum has been the subject of many state and regional publications, including "Southern Living" magazine. Ongoing programs at the museum include: classes, animal and science talks, birthday parties, outreach presentations to schools and curator opportunities. Each month, members of the Tar River Astronomy Club gather at the Museum for programs and special viewing.
Excellent golfing facilities are available at courses in the Rocky Mount, Nashville and Spring Hope areas.
AGRICULTURE AND INDUSTRY
In the second quarter of 2001, Nash County had a labor force of 41,765. Of this total work force, 4.1% were engaged in agricultural employment and 23.2% were engaged in manufacturing jobs. Growing workforce industry groups are the retail trade (19.8%) and service (20.1%).
Agricultural products from Nash County include tobacco, poultry, swine, corn, forestry, soybeans, sweet potatoes, cotton, peanuts, cucumbers, small grain, beef cattle, dairy cattle and products, nursery and horticultural plants.
Nash County enjoys a rare blend of rural lifestyle coupled with the economic advantages of a diversified agricultural, industrial and service-based economy. Nash County is also positioned as a major gateway between the Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions of North Carolina.
