About Appalachia Online of Norton, VA
Building Digital Futures in Southwest Virginia
Our Story
Appalachia Online is a brand of Hill and Holler Media, LLC, based in Norton, Virginia. We’re managed and operated right here in the heart of the Appalachian region of Southwest Virginia by our three founding members, all local to the community. We understand the unique challenges of our rural area and are passionate about helping local businesses and organizations grow online. For many in our region, establishing a comprehensive online presence can seem daunting. We’re here to change that.
Our Mission
Our purpose is to make establishing and maintaining effective online strategies straightforward and accessible for everyone, especially those in rural communities like ours.
Our Team
Appalachia Online is powered by its three co-founding members. Each brings a unique set of skills and they share a unified vision to support the digital growth of our local Appalachian communities.
Austin Counts
Co-Founding Member/Manager
Principal, Sales & Client Relations
Austin was raised in Dickenson County, VA and is an alumnus of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. With eight years of working with Central Appalachian non-profits, governments, and community leaders under his belt, Austin seeks to better understand the technological challenges that local organizations face and how Appalachia Online can boost the sustainability and profitability of businesses across the region. At Appalachia Online, he aims to turn his web development and management skills into a resource for local organizations, helping make digital tools and services more accessible to communities across Central Appalachia.
Rance Garrison
Co-Founding Member/Manager
Principal, Business Development & Marketing
Rance has ten years of experience in marketing, public relations, and communications in both the non-profit and private sectors. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from UVA Wise, as well as an MBA from Milligan University in Johnson City, Tennessee, and a Master of Arts in Christian Ministries from Milligan’s Emmanuel Seminary. He grew up in Pennington Gap and currently resides in Norton, Virginia. Rance is passionate about supporting Southwest Virginia’s economic growth and helping small businesses thrive in today’s fast-paced environment.
Blake Stanley
Co-Founding Member/Manager
Principal, Technology Strategy & Implementation
Blake brings over ten years of combined experience in web design, digital marketing, and customer-focused technical support. He holds a National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) certification in information technology and first discovered his passion for tech with early computers as a child. Born and raised in southwest Virginia, Blake has collaborated with local businesses, artists, and nonprofits on a variety of digital projects. He currently lives in Wise, Virginia, and is dedicated to helping rural organizations adopt straightforward digital strategies to achieve their online goals.