July 29, 2001

Downtown -- it's moving in the right direction - 150 thriving businesses

By ROZELLA HARDIN
STAR Staff

   From retailers to restaurateurs, the downtown business community seems to agree Elizabethton's original commerce hub isn't as bullish as it once was or perhaps should be.

Pictured: Elizabethton is a unique town in that is located at the foot of a mountain, has a river running through it, has a Covered Bridge and a monument located in the Courthouse Square at the east end of town. It is also a town that you can picnic in. The above picture was taken as you enter the downtown from the west, looking east toward the Monument. Photo by Jason Harville

Sisters who own businesses downtown had father who was a downtown storekeeper

By ROZELLA HARDIN
STAR Staff

   Mary Shepherd (Merry Mary's) and Peggy Meredith (Carter County Motors), sisters, have been around Elizabethton for a long time. In fact, they grew up here, attended local schools, and now operate a business in the downtown.

Pictured: Mary Shepherd (Merry Mary's) and Peggy Meredith, left, of Carter County Motors grew up in downtown Elizabethton and now have their own businesses. Their father, the late J.C. Martin, came to Elizabethton in the early 1930's as manager of the A&P Store. For a number of years he served the Elizabethton store as manager. The family first lived on Hattie Avenue and later of East C Street. They both have fond memories of the downtown. Photo by Dave Boyd

Downtown isn't what it used to be, but it's still a fun place to go

By ROZELLA HARDIN
STAR Staff

   Several years ago a black comedian appeared on the Tonight Show.
   "Before I do anything else," he said, "I have a message for all of you white folks -- Elvis is dead!"

Pictured: Joe Alexander, who has a business on Elk Avenue, enjoys coming to work downtown. Joe's father, gradnfather, and great-grandfather have served the town in various capacities. He is the fourth generation of Alexanders to work in downtown. Photo by Jason Harville

Elizabethton has a unique downtown that is more than just retail

By ROZELLA HARDIN
STAR Staff

   Try having "an Elizabethton kind of day" without circling the Veterans Monument downtown.
   Or strolling down Elk Avenue without a peek at some antiques.

Pictured: George Holder comes downtown because because that's where a lot of his friends are. According to Don McKeehan of David-Lynn's. George comes "eight days a week after breakfast." He finds a chair at the front of the store, where he scans the morning paper and chats with whoever comes in. Photo by Jason Harville

Local coffee house provides positive atmosphere for teens

By JESSICA TAYLOR
STAR Intern

   Downtown areas used to be meccas for teenage activities, as local drugstores provided soda counters for teenagers to hang out after school and drive-ins provided night-life action.

Pictured: Coffee Company waitress Natalie serves Elizabethton teen Amy Holmes a cup of coffee as she takes a break from her hectic day by stopping in the restaurant. Photo by Jessica Taylor

Elizabethton a town of specialty shops

By GREG MILLER
STAR Staff

   With its assortment of antique and craft shops, eateries, and consignment shops, Elizabethton is a town of specialty shops.
   The history, charm and character of downtown combine to create an atmosphere that welcomes both area residents and tourists, alike.

Downtown businesses keep traditions of quality and service alive
  
By JESSICA TAYLOR
STAR Intern

   Many downtown businesses are an integral part of Elizabethton's history. Trying to imagine downtown Elizabethton without these vital pieces of history is impossible.

Downtown a safe place to shop and walk

   Downtown Elizabethton is one of those communities where you can still walk the streets and feel safe. According to a spokesman for the Elizabethton Police Department, "It is a safe place to walk without fear of being assaulted."

Downtown belongs to all of us

   "Downtown" is the one place that belongs to everyone without favoring North, South, East or West Elizabethton. "Downtown" is the heart of Elizabethton, the image we project to the entire state and to every visitor.