Author Jay Leutze plans to speak at ‘Stand Up That Mountain’ events

By Staff Reports

Local author Jay Leutze of “Stand Up That Mountain” comes to Johnson City, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 15-16, for an open house and a reading.

After moving to a cabin near Roan Mountain, Leutze’s life changed after a concerned phone call from a 14-year old neighbor. Leutze went from hiking and fishing to fighting alongside his neighbors to save their mountain home. “Stand Up That Mountain,” which was published in June, is the story of the battle against a gravel-mine operation in the wilds of Avery County, N.C., along the Appalachian Trail.

“Jay’s way of capturing local characters and personality is captivating and his descriptions of the rich nature of the mountain balds and forests gives me goosebumps when I read it,” said Emily Bidgood, a member of Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy where Leutze is a Trustee. “I can see the Roan ridge distant from my home in Johnson City and his story has given me a whole new appreciation.”

There will be two opportunities to interact with the author, and also participate in a forum on grassroots inspiration.

• Saturday, Sept. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m., Leutze will appear at Nelson Fine Arts and Framing at 324 E. Main St., Johnson City, for an Open House and “Meet the Author” event. The open house will include a book signing and sales, as well as refreshments. Leutze’s appearance is being supported by Nelson Fine Arts and Jerry Greer Photography.

• Sunday, Sept. 16, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Leutze will be at the Johnson City Public Library, 100 W. Milliard St. This evening event, sponsored by Green Interfaith Network Inc., will consist of a “Stand Up That Mountain” author-led presentation and discussion on inspiring neighbors to save community and wild places in the Southern Appalachians.

For more information on both events, call www.greeninterfaith.org.