Not Just Building Trailers, But Also a Community

By Justin Hartsell, Utility’s Glade Spring First On-Site Communications Employee

On Saturday, September 28th, 2019, Utility’s Glade Spring, Virginia plant participated in the annual Chilhowie Community Apple Festival’s Grand Parade. The plant entered a show trailer with the words, “Pushing your next trailer to a higher level,” displayed on each side. Employees and their spouses followed along handing out candy to kids and fellow spectators along the parade route. Infant-friendly snacks were also available for younger kids.

This marks Utility’s second year participating in the parade. “Being a part of the parade gives our Glade Spring family an opportunity to connect with other families in the community,” said Sam Cassell, Plant Manager.

“As I was walking along the parade route, handing out candy, I heard
one little girl’s grandmother say, ‘Her daddy builds those trailers.’
I feel a deep sense of pride knowing what that trailer means and
represents to that family.”

According to the Chilhowie Apple Festival website, funds raised from the festival go to “worthwhile projects which benefit the community.” Projects include purchasing new equipment for schools, school renovations, school band uniforms, and band trips. Monies also go to help fund the town’s fire and rescue squads.

The Chilhowie Community Apple Festival began in the 1950s when Chilhowie was the second-largest producer of apples in Virginia. Despite apples no longer being largely grown in the town, the heritage and significance of the festival continues to be an important community event, marking the kick-off to the fall season.