Hello Patrick,
How have you been? The roller coaster ride in this weather has been quite something, hasn’t it? Preparing for the changes has been challenging, but I hope you’re doing well.
I have some news to share with you. In case you haven’t heard, there are going to be some changes at the Mabry Mill Restaurant this upcoming season. The restaurant will no longer be offering sit-down meals, and this will have an impact on visitation.
As you know, the restaurant is a popular stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway. To address this, the Tourism Department is hosting a Community Meeting in Meadows of Dan on February 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Meadows of Dan Community Center. A representative from the Blue Ridge Parkway will be present to discuss this and help formulate a plan to drive those tourists who are looking for a meal back to Meadows of Dan.
There is much to offer them just down the road from Mabry Mill, and we want the merchants there to showcase all that they offer. We have been in contact with some of the community leaders, and we invite you to come by and offer your support if you have the time.
Although we are saddened by the news, our office will take life’s proverbial lemons and make lemonade out of this situation. So please remember the date and time of the meeting, and let’s work together to make the awesome community of Meadows of Dan shine even brighter this year.
In closing, there are some businesses that will be celebrating some milestones this year, such as Howell’s Grocery and Poor Farmers Market. Let’s keep our ears tuned in as we look to help them with their celebrations and remember where we have come from.
Patrick, you are an awesome community. Stay strong, warm, and inviting. And remember, tell all of your business partners, your family, and friends, “Come get lost and find yourself here!”
Take care,
James Houchins,
Director of Tourism
(jhouchins@co.patrick.va.us)
