On October 8, 2026, members of the Lawrence County Rotary Club enjoyed a special visit to Blaine Elementary School for its Third Annual Heritage Festival, a wonderful celebration of Appalachian culture and traditions.

Rotary members were warmly welcomed by fellow Rotarian and Lawrence County Schools Superintendent Katie Webb,  Principal Mr. Jewell, and art teacher Mrs. Slone, who organizes this special event each year. Mrs. Slone’s hard work, dedication, and love for her students and school were evident throughout the festivities.

Students experienced a taste of traditional mountain living through apple butter and homemade biscuits, butter making, soup beans, and apple pie preparation. Hands-on activities included shucking corn, stringing beans and popcorn, painting pumpkins, and decorating wind chimes.

Community volunteers and local artisans shared their talents through quilting, woodworking, crocheting, and knitting demonstrations. Students also enjoyed interactive displays featuring mining, wildlife and animal tracking, beekeeping, and tractor-pulled hayrides.

A traditional Appalachian “dinner on the ground” style luncheon brought everyone together for delicious food, fellowship, and storytelling.

The festival was made possible by the combined efforts of school staff, community members, volunteers, artisans, and storytellers, all dedicated to preserving and sharing our Appalachian heritage.

During the visit, Rotary members also continued a long-standing tradition by presenting dictionaries to Mrs. York’s third-grade class.

The Lawrence County Rotary Club was honored to be part of such a meaningful celebration. Blaine Elementary’s Heritage Festival was a beautiful reminder of the importance of preserving our Appalachian roots and passing treasured traditions on to future generations.