Carolina Mountain Life - Spring 2024

Wednesdays Starting June 5

Plus Memorial Day and Labor Day

2024 BAND LINE-UP

May 27 (Memorial Day)

Slow Burn

June 5

Dark Horse Band

June 12

Delta Fire

June 19

The Collective

June 26

Smokin’ Joe Band

July 3

The Rewind 80s Tribute

July 10

Lucky Strikes Orchestra

July 17

Preston Benfield Band

July 24

Opal Moon

July 31

Split Shot

5:30 – 9 PM

August 7

Shelby Rae Moore Band

August 14

70s Kids Solid Gold

August 21

The Night Move Band

August 28

Soul Benefactor

Sept 2 (Labor Day)

Tanya & The Roadrunnerz

Free Admission | Weekly Food Specials

Sugar Mountain Golf Club Deck | 1054 Sugar Mountain Drive

Band schedule subject to change. Go to SeeSugar.com/summer-concerts or call 828-898-1025 for the latest info.

A MAGNIFICENT COURSE EVERYONE CAN ENJOY! OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

“Mountain golf at its finest” –David H.

-

“Best in the mountains” –Gary G.

“I adore this golf course!”

–Roger Y.

The beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the fitting backdrop to a unique and storied layout. Dramatic and challenging but still accessible to all players.

Linville Land Harbor Golf Club is a true hidden gem that’s about to become your new favorite mountain golf course.

linvillelandharborgolf.com (828) 733-8325

Cover by CML’s designer, who happens to be in love with the magic of raindrops.

These particular raindrops landed on the lupine growing on her mountainside.

The photograph was taken looking down on the top of the tall blooms.

Twenty-eight years ago, thoughts of creating the first lifestyle magazine in the High Country were scribbled on a napkin at the kitchen table as our three young children ran the roost. That year, a poignant tale of young Kasey, an energetic 15-year-old, was set in motion. How do these stories and timeframes converge?

The napkin stated a mission—to recount the stories of the people, animals and places that make this area magical. To communicate important messages about local non-profit organizations, to give folks a map of where to play in our great outdoors, and where to hear great music, see incredible theatre, dine at spectacular eateries and stay in memorable lodging in these beautiful mountains.

So, to connect the above dots, I am humbled to relate a heart-felt story of Kasey.

Back in 1996, Kasey, a vibrant animal-loving teenager, was out on a waterfall hike with family and their Golden Retriever, Beau, on their property near Glendale Springs, NC. The energetic pup decided to jump into the rushing waters of a cascading waterfall. Kasey, equally exuberant, jumped in to retrieve Beau. Although Beau survived the 100-ft. plummet over the falls, Kasey did not. Devastated, her parents John and Ann Lisk returned to their home in Florida to recover and work with horse rescue and horse protection agencies.

The call to come back to their property in Ashe County five years later prompted their founding of the non-profit Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary in 2001 to honor the spirit and memory of Kasey’s passion for animals. Their work of rescuing horses, ponies, donkeys, and even dogs from desperation and near death became a living testament to Kasey’s spirit.

Our writer, Steve York, initially shared the touching story of Kasey and her family in our Autumn 2014 edition. Then last fall, we heard about their need to build a barn and expand their operation due to the growing demand for neglected animals to find a place of respite and recovery. Steve once again penned an article in our Autumn 2023 edition to re-tell their story.

CML recently learned that because of our story last fall, an anonymous philanthropic donor made a $100,000 donation to Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary. The generous donor said, “I read CML cover to cover whenever I come up to NC. After reading the article about Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary, I was inspired and felt there was a real need. If there was some way that I could contribute, I wanted to help make that happen.” The Lisks lauded CML readers as doers who want to make a positive difference

In light of this news, the CML team wants to thank not only this amazing donor, but our large readership for picking us up for the past 27 years and responding to the call to support those in need here in our area. Within these pages you will see other amazing groups that are making a tremendous impact in our community, to include the High Country Charitable Foundation, High Country Caregivers, Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, and Spirit Ride Therapeutic Riding Center, among others.

So, from our humble beginnings in the kitchen with three young children running around, we are deeply moved that our stories continue to touch the lives of the people of our great mountain home.

For more information or to donate to Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary, visit southernsunfarm. com. And click on cmlmagazine.online to view our story in the Autumn 2023 issue and to check out our growing directory of non-profit organizations.

Behind the Curtain at CML . . .

Paul Laurent

Paul has been a naturalist and birder for as long as he can remember. He spent ten years leading kayak tours in the swamps and marshes of South Carolina before getting tired of hurricanes and moving to Banner Elk with his amazing wife Amanda. Paul is now the Naturalist at Valle Crucis Community Park, and is very active with the High Country Audubon Society. Paul and Amanda own and operate a small birding and ecotour company called Epic Nature Tours, where he leads small group birding tours throughout the High Country and around the world.

Emily Webb

Emily found her way to Western North Carolina in 2020, when she accepted a job in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Lees-McRae College. A lifelong animal lover, she was thrilled to work at one of the only educational institutions in the country with a fully operational wildlife rehabilitation center right on campus. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Brigham Young University, and while she has worked in various journalism, marketing, and public relations roles, her first love will always be storytelling. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and pets (three cats and a dog); traveling; watching musicals and movies; visiting zoos, aquariums, and museums; and reading.

Doug Winbon

Doug joined CML in 2021 as part of our delivery team, handling Watauga County distribution. An eastern North Carolina native, Doug followed his daughter to the High Country after a 30-year career with the Cary Fire Department. Following retirement, he served as a North Carolina Fire Service Instructor. “Delivering magazines for CML is a great part time job for a retiree. It is such a quality publication that demand is always high.”  In his spare time, Doug enjoys spoiling his granddaughter, Zoe.

High Country Charitable Foundation

"Helping You Give to Those in Need"

MISSION:

Our mission is to empower and uplift those in need by supporting community agencies that provide essential services. Through our charitable donations, we strive to help those agencies in Avery County so that individuals and families have access to the resources and support they require to thrive.

Together, let's be the catalyst for positive change, spreading hope and compassion throughout our community.

The High Country Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the vision to help Avery County. CONTACT US TODAY TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN HELP!

Welcome Spring!

Our mountains and foothills have come to life with the vibrant colors, aromas and sounds of nature—celebrate the season with a huge variety of events and activities related to art, food, beverage, music, history, sports, plants, wildlife, astronomy and more! This is just a sampling . . .

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS |

Spring ‘24

April

Mayland Earth to Sky Park April through June in Burnsville, NC

In addition to ongoing community stargazing opportunities at Bare Dark Sky Observatory, Mayland Community College’s Earth to Sky Park hosts a variety of educational and fun events for the whole family. One of their most popular offerings at the park’s Arthur Planetarium is their laser light shows. On Saturday, April 27 at 6:30 p.m., don’t miss their latest show, “Lasermau5.” Lasermau5 features the wide ranging and cutting-edge sound of deadmau5, a one-man electronic dance music phenomenon who has won countless international awards and five GRAMMY nominations. Lasermau5 is a night of movement, energy, rhythm and lasers. A favorite for laser fans of all ages!

Other family favorites this spring include showings of “James Webb Space Telescope: The Story Unfolds.” You’ll discover the furthermost reaches of the universe as revealed by the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful telescope ever built. Also showing is “Mesmerica,” a visual music journey that brings the mesmerizing music of GRAMMYnominated composer and percussionist James Hood together with visually-hypnotic, 3D animated art curated from artists around the world, creating an immersive experience designed to transcend time, relax, soothe, and stimulate your mind and senses. mayland.edu/ esp, facebook.com/EarthToSkyPark

Merlefest | April 25-28 in Wilkesboro, NC

One of the premier music festivals in the High Country AND the nation, Merlefest serves as an annual homecoming for musicians and music fans. Held on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, Merlefest was founded in 1988 in memory of the late Eddy Merle Watson, son of American music legend Doc Watson. Explore 12 stages of “Traditional Plus” music, plus other activities including nature walks, Acoustic Kids Showcases, Little Pickers Area, a Pickin’ Place and a pleasing variety of food and craft vendors. For more on the history of the event and this year’s festival details, visit Merlefest.org.

Fire on the Mountain Blacksmith Festival April 27 in Spruce Pine, NC

Join blacksmiths and blacksmithing enthusiasts in Spruce Pine on Saturday, April 27, for this annual festival celebrating the art of the blacksmith. Coordinated by Spruce Pine Main Street, Penland School of Craft, Toe River Arts, Arthur Morgan School, and local smiths, participants will enjoy blacksmith demonstrations, blacksmith vendor booths, a youth and adult forge-off, a hands-on tent, kids’ activities, food and more. Also this year, a group will be present to represent “Peace Nails,” an international effort to raise funds for, and awareness of, charities serving people suffering in war zones around the world. The festival will also represent RAW Tools South, an effort in which guns are purchased from the public, cut apart, and forged into garden tools from their components; these tools are then sold to raise money that supports RAW

Tools’ mission to “disarm hearts, forge peace, cultivate justice.”

Stay in Spruce Pine for the weekend and add hiking and exploring to your itinerary. There are a variety of small motels in the area, including the Blue Ridge Boutique Hotel, as well as beautiful campgrounds, and many local listings on Airbnb and VRBO. Fire on the Mountain takes place 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and is free. Facebook: FireOnTheMountainFestival, discoversprucepinenc.com/fireonthemountain

Beech Mountain Happenings

April - June | Town of Beech Mountain, and Beech Mountain Resort, NC

Visit Beech Mountain this spring and enjoy a full slate of activities and entertainment all season long. Hike along a vast network of hiking trails known as the Emerald Outback, and canoe and fish at Buckeye Lake (the Annual “Kiddo Fishing Derby” for ages 12 and under takes place at Lake Coffey on June 1); cycle the mountain on 51 miles of road cycling routes; mountain bike on 12 trails with over 18 miles of biking terrain; fly a kite and share a picnic in the Beech Mountain Kite Field; pig out on pizza and play mini golf at the Brick Oven Pizzeria; shop at the weekly Beech Mountain Farmers’ Market on the first Friday of each month, beginning June 7 through October; visit the one and only Fred’s General Mercantile and peruse the store’s seemingly endless selection of goods and gifts for everyone; go birding at one of the many great wildlife viewing areas; get active at the Buckeye Recreation Center, where you can play basketball, volleyball, tennis, pickleball and more; and participate

Fire on the Mountain Blacksmith Festival Spruce Pine, NC

Mayland Earth to Sky Park Burnsville, NC

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

in Mile High Yoga at Beech Mountain Resort (beginning June 1).

Beech Mountain Resort’s “Summer Opening Day” is May 25, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Live Music at 5,506’ begins on June 1 at 2:30 p.m. The Resort’s Summer Concert Series is one of the largest events in the area, kicking off on June 8, and headlined by big-name touring acts. For a complete list of activities, concerts, ticket prices, food and beverage options, and hours of operation, visit beechmountainresort. com. Visit the Beech Mountain Visitor Center in person at 403-A Beech Mountain Parkway, or check out beechmtn.com for more on each of these activities.

May

Yadkin Valley Wine Festival

May 18 in Elkin, NC

Elkin is a great town year-round, but late spring is particularly lively with an annual festival celebrating the surrounding Yadkin Valley wine country. The Yadkin Valley Wine Festival fills Elkin Municipal Park with locally made wine, live music and a family-friendly good time on Saturday, May 18.

Unlike street festivals, this event encourages groups to bring blankets and chairs and spend the day relaxing on the lawn while sampling wine from approximately 20 Yadkin Valley wineries.

This year marks the 21st Yadkin Valley Wine Festival, designed to show off the award-winning wine produced in the Yadkin

Valley AVA, draw visitors to the area, and encourage return visits to experience the wineries and tasting rooms in person.

70s Kids, Solid Gold Tribute Band warms up the crowd with classic rock and soul hits from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Kids in America, Totally 80s Tribute Band performs all your favorite tunes from the era of big hair, leg warmers and neon from 2 to 5 p.m. The dance area near the stage is always a happening spot, and food vendors will be on hand serving a variety of festival favorites.

The event offers a wine check service for those who purchase bottles and prefer not to carry them around. A shuttle service runs all afternoon to and from Elkin hotels. In addition to regular tasting tickets, the festival offers non-tasting tickets, and anyone younger than 16 is admitted for free. VIP tickets, including preferred parking, food and an upgraded Riedel tasting glass, are available. YadkinValleyWineFestival.com

Saved by a Salamander Day

May 18 in Grassy Creek, NC

The Old Store at Grassy Creek and The New River Conservancy present “Saved by a Salamander Day” on Saturday, May 18, from 1-5 p.m., with live music beginning at 5:30 p.m. This festival celebrates the significance of the New River, the small town of Grassy Creek, and the remarkable hellbender salamander. Conservation of the New River in Ashe County has a rich and successful history, one that deserves to be remembered and commended.

The day’s events will highlight success stories, teach guests about conservation efforts,

and inspire us all to enjoy the New River and its wonderful wildlife for years to come. Take a walk along Grassy Creek (a tributary of the New River); enjoy lunch, dinner and snack options at the Old Store; and at 5:30 p.m., kick off your Saturday night with music by The Jeff Little Trio, an award-winning act from the Blue Ridge Mountains. From paddling outings, to workshops, to delicious food, to great music… the organizers have a full day planned. savedbyasalamander.org, newriverconservancy.org, theoldstoregrassycreek.com

Art in the Park

May 18 and June 15 in Blowing Rock, NC

Blowing Rock Art in the Park celebrates six decades of shows! Enjoy mingling with award-winning and acclaimed artisans at these juried events, curated to present a wide variety of mediums. Find gifts for everyone on your list, and works for your own collections, including functional beauties like furniture and cutlery, and wearable art such as handcrafted jewelry and textiles. Artists’ tents line Park Avenue in the heart of downtown Blowing Rock so attendees can enjoy proximity to other shopping as well as dining options and local parks.

Additional Saturday dates in summer and early fall include July 13, August 17, September 7, and October 5, with hours of 10 a.m.-5 p.m. for each show, rain or shine. Make a weekend of it and stay for the outdoor Concert in the Park that follows each Art in the Park event on Sundays! blowingrock.com/artinthepark/

Spring hiking at Beech Mountain Yadkin Valley Wine Festival Elkin, NC

Art in the Park Blowing Rock, NC

more!

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

Boone Bigfoots | Beginning May 23 through July in Boone, NC, and Beyond

If you haven’t yet made it to a Boone Bigfoots baseball game, you’re in for a treat. The team kicks off its 4th season with an exhibition game against Uwharrie on Thursday, May 23. Games continue almost daily through the end of July. The High Country’s baseball “home team” is all about family friendly entertainment. With new Head Coach Craig McAndrews and new GM Chris Merritt at the helm this year the team is bringing back the family fun and the winning Bigfoots tradition!

The Boone Bigfoots team will practice and play home games at Appalachian State University’s Beaver Field at Jim and Bettie Smith Stadium in Boone. The Bigfoots are a 501(c3) non-profit Independent baseball organization with a mission to provide competitive baseball and fun fan entertainment for all the High Country to enjoy—all profits generated go to the Appalachian State University Athletic Scholarship Fund.

You’ll find the Boone Bigfoots Home Game schedule on page 55 in this issue of CML. bigfootsbaseball.com, and on Facebook.

Sugar Mountain Food Truck Festival

May 25 in Sugar Mountain, NC

Eat to your heart’s content from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. at this popular foodie festival on Saturday, May 25 (Memorial Day Weekend). In addition to great food, enjoy chair lift rides, the mountain bike park, yard games, live music, and more. Musical entertainment includes Classic Highway, performing from 12 to 3 p.m., and The Lucky Strikes, performing from

4 to 7 p.m. Sample fare from the following food trucks: Carolina Food Monger, Diggy Donuts, Fork in the Road Concessions & Catering, Hound Dogs, Wicked Good Pretzels, Lobster Dogs, Ben and Jerry’s, Cousins Maine Lobster, Trucky Cheese Food Truck, Diggy Donuts, Fun Time Concessions, What the Cluck, Urban Drip Coffee, and Last Run Lounge Beverages, with more to be announced. skisugar.com/foodtruck-festival

Visitors to Sugar Mountain Resort will enjoy chairlift rides for the entire Memorial Day weekend from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Rides aboard the Summit Express shuttle bikers and foot-passengers to the mountain’s peak, and the Easy Street lift services a beginnerlevel gravity skills trail for bikers only. After the special Memorial Day weekend, the bike park resumes Bike Park & Scenic Chairlift Rides July 4 – September 2. Visit skisugar.com/bikepark/ for specific days, hours and times. Also part of the Memorial Day weekend festivities, Sugar Mountain’s Grillin’ and Chillin’ Live Music and Dinner Series begins on Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day), and then every Wednesday, JuneAugust, and on Labor Day, at Sugar Mountain’s Golf and Tennis Club House Deck. Wear your dancing shoes! Seating is also available inside and all events happen rain or shine (seesugar. com/summer-concerts/). Visit SeeSugar.com and Skisugar.com for all the spring happenings at Sugar Mountain!

Art on the Greene

Beginning May 25-26 in Banner Elk, NC

This spring and summer series of fine art shows take place on the grounds of the

Historic Banner Elk School in downtown Banner Elk. The first event kicks off Memorial Day weekend, with additional shows July 6-7 (Fourth of July weekend), August 3-4, and August 31-September 1 (Labor Day weekend). Art on the Greene highlights works from local and regional artists representing a variety of media, such as ceramics, glass, metal, wood, watercolor, acrylics and oil.

In addition to the art, crafts, food and fun on “the Greene,” you can enjoy the many shops and restaurants within walking distance of the festival. And if you’re in town for a long weekend, don’t miss the Thursday evening concerts in Tate-Evans Park, every Thursday beginning June 20 (through August 15) at 6:30 p.m., sponsored by the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. townofbannerelk.org/ artonthegreene, bannerelk.com, bannerelk.org

June

The Coolest Corner Ashe Bash

June 1 in Jefferson, NC

The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce will again sponsor this completely free and family-friendly musical celebration on Saturday, June 1, from 5-9 p.m. for High Country residents and visitors to the region. Ashe Bash organizers are thrilled to welcome GRAMMY winner The Steep Canyon Rangers, along with musical guest Presley Barker. “Hailing from both the Appalachian and Piedmont regions of North Carolina, the Rangers have long held traditional bluegrass paramount—with

Sugar Mountain Food Truck Festival Sugar Mountain, NC

Boone Bigfoots Boone, NC

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

the band’s last few albums, they have gained recognition from well beyond the world of bluegrass, earning a reputation as some of the most influential songwriters in Americana today.”

This popular bash will be held at the Ashe County Court House, located above Bojangles in Jefferson (150 Government Circle). A variety of food vendors will be serving treats on site beginning at 5 p.m. Music begins at 6 p.m. Shuttle service to the venue will be provided from parking lots at the former Lowes Foods shopping center on Mt. Jefferson Road, the Ashe County Civic Center, and Ashe Memorial Hospital. Guests are invited to bring a chair; no alcohol or pets allowed. ashechamber.com/ ashe-bash.php

Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals

Beginning June 7 in Elizabethton, TN

The Official Outdoor Drama of the state of Tennessee—Liberty!—launches its 45th season at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton, TN, and continues every weekend in June (June 7–8, 14-15, 20–22, 27-29) beginning each evening at 8 p.m. in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater. Tennessee’s official outdoor drama is presented by a cast of local performers against the backdrop of Fort Watauga. Liberty! portrays the significant history of Sycamore Shoals during the late 18th century and highlights the influential series of events that unfolded during that time. These dramatic chapters in America’s westward expansion set the tone for a number of happenings that helped propel the British colonies toward independence and a democratic form of government.

The 2024 season will also mark the 14th year for Carter’s Store, a venue named in honor of the original store opened by pioneers Carter and partner William Parker shortly after they arrived on the frontier in 1771. A fine menu of mouth-watering treats will be offered each evening for Liberty! guests. During your visit to Sycamore Shoals, plan to visit the Friends of Sycamore Shoals award-winning interpretive museum. friendsofsycamoreshoals. org/liberty

Boonerang | June 14-15 in Boone, NC

Each year, Boonerang Music & Arts Festival celebrates Boone, NC, with a free downtown street festival. This community homecoming brings Boone-linked artists and fans together every third weekend in June “to Boonerang back to the place we love.”

The Boonerang free music and arts festival includes multiple concert stages throughout downtown Boone, primarily made up of artists with Boone connections—this year, more than 30 acts will participate! Other festival highlights include local food, craft beer and wine, a vendor market, a kids’ zone (at the Watauga Library), silent discos, a dance lot, an international festival, and afterparties. Guests can also visit downtown galleries, shops, and restaurants. Find a full list of performances and a map of stages at boonerangfest.com.

NC Rhododendron Festival

June 21-22 in Bakersville, NC

The NC Rhododendron Festival is in its 77th year, drawing hundreds of visitors from all over the region. This event features the Rho-

dodendron Festival Pageant, a Craft Fair with food vendors, children’s activities, and live music throughout the day, as well as a classic car show, a 10K run, and one of the largest square dance events in N.C.! On Friday and Saturday nights during the Festival, grab your partner and your friends for the Rhododendron Square Dance on Main Street in downtown Bakersville. “Come discover our Small Town Mountain Paradise!” Festival hours and details at ncrhododendronfestival.org

Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival

June 22 - 23 in Roan Mountain, TN

The Roan Mountain Citizens Club presents their 77th Rhododendron Festival at Roan Mountain State Park, located at the foot of Roan Mountain. The annual festival heralds in the blooming of the famous Catawba Rhododendron along the highlands of the Roan. You’ll find handmade crafts, food, and a verity of traditional music, plus demonstrations of old-time traditions. The world’s largest natural rhododendron gardens grow atop 6,000ft Roan Mountain and the shrubs are in peak bloom during late June. roanmountain.com/ rhododendron-festival/

Avery County Heritage Festival

June 29 in Newland, NC

According to the Avery County Historical Museum, Avery County’s rich genealogical history can be traced back to the early 1700s when the area was inhabited by the Cherokee Nation. In the late 1700s, European settlers began to move into the area, including the

continued on next page

Rhododendron Festivals Bakersville, NC Roan Mountain, TN

Liberty! Elizabethton, TN

Boonerang Boone, NC

Ashe Bash West Jefferson, NC

“Have fun and take home some terrific memories!”

more!

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

Avery family who established a plantation near present-day Elk Park. The county was officially established in 1911 and was named after Waightstill Avery, a prominent lawyer and politician from the area.

Hosted by the Avery County Historical Society, the Avery County Heritage Festival celebrates this area and its unique history. You’ll find craftspeople, genealogists, authors, performers and plenty of fun in the Newland town square in downtown Newland (Schultz Circle). Share family genealogy and cultural traditions that are part of Avery County’s identity. The Heritage Festival is free, and the event includes craft and food vendors, and a full lineup of musicians and cloggers. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday the 29th. averycountymuseum.org/heritage-festival/

July

Sugar Mountain Summit Crawl

July 4 at Sugar Mountain Resort, NC

The Sugar Mountain Resort Summit Crawl is a fun and competitive event in which participants run, hike, climb, or crawl from the ski lodge to Sugar Mountain’s 5,300-foot peak by way of the grassy slopes. skisugar.com/crawl/

Independence Day Celebrations

July 4-7 throughout the Region

Parades, fireworks, kids’ activities, fun runs, food, beverages, live music and more! Find links to area Chambers of Commerce, TDAs

and Visitor Centers at cmlmagazine.online. Be sure to pick up our Summer issue for more details!

Christmas in July

July 5-6 in West Jefferson, NC

This year’s Christmas in July event kicks off on July 5, marking the 36th year for Ashe County’s longest-running festival! The popular event celebrates the Christmas tree industry and mountain heritage with arts, crafts, and local entertainers representative of the region. A large stage in the middle of downtown West Jefferson is the hub for several excellent bands. Food vendors will also be open on Friday evening, so bring the family for dinner and to enjoy the music. Also bring your dance shoes!

On Saturday, July 6, the Ashe County Farmers Market will open at 7 a.m., offering a variety of handmade items, fresh produce, baked goods, and even hot dogs later in the day to help celebrate the season. At 9 a.m., the festival craft vendors and local non-profits line up along Jefferson Avenue, leaving sidewalks clear for walking and browsing the many local shops. Ashe County Arts Council hosts children’s activities, performers rove the streets showcasing their magical talents, and Santa & Mrs. Claus arrive straight from the North Pole. Music, storytelling, and more will continue throughout the day. For more information on the music lineup, food vendors, and updates on the festival, follow the festival organizers on Facebook: Christmas In July Festival or visit christmasinjulyfestival.com.

Avery Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival

July 19-21 and August 16-18 at Sugar Mountain Resort, NC

Mark your calendar and make plans to attend the 2024 Avery Fine Art & Master Crafts Festivals. These juried festivals—strictly for fine art, master crafts and approved specialty/gourmet items—will feature an eclectic gathering of unique hand-crafted wares from select artists and crafters. Hours are Friday 1 p.m.–5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. averycounty.com

Christmas in July

Downtown West Jefferson, NC

Be

sure to pick up the Summer issue of CML Magazine for a complete look at Regional Happenings taking place July through September, 2024.

Sugar Mountain Summit Crawl Independence Day Celebrations

Avery Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

July 11-14 in Linville, NC

Join thousands of kilt-clad Scots who make their way to MacRae Meadows each year for this renowned gathering and games. You and your family can sample Scottish music, dancing, foods, costumes, field games, sheep herding and much more. See our festival preview that follows, and read CML’s article on the 2024 music lineup at the Highland Games on page 37. gmhg.org

The sounds of bagpipes, the spirit of competition, the scents of favorite foods, and the brilliant colors of Scottish tartans return to MacRae Meadows for the annual gathering and games!

Plan now to enjoy four days of festivities at the 68th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games (GMHG) in Linville, NC, where you’ll celebrate our area’s Scottish ancestry and culture, and cheer as you watch the clans compete. Tradition and camaraderie are tightly woven into this festive annual event, with participants traveling from across the country and world to attend; you’ll want to plan ahead to enjoy all the Highland Games has to offer.

Here are just some of the highlights to look forward to at this year’s Games. Check out gmhg.org for event times and locations.

Thursday, July 11

n Children’s field games and clinics

n MacRae Meadows open

n Picnic on the ground

n Scottish entertainment with traditional Celtic music, plus sheep herding with border collies on the field (throughout the weekend)

n Opening Torchlight Ceremony announcing each participating Clan’s arrival to the Games; Piping & Drumming performance

Friday, July 12

n MacRae Meadows opens, with preliminary athletic competition, sheep herding, and music/dancing exhibitions

n Celtic Groves open, and other activities highlight the day

n Opening Ceremony

n Children’s athletic competitions; cultural activities

n Celtic Rock Concert at MacRae Meadows

n Scottish Country Dance Gala

Saturday, July 13

n Amateur heavy athletic qualifying begins, competition begins for Highland Dancing Atlantic International Championship, piping, drumming, harp playing, Scottish athletic events, track & field events, Scottish country dancing, Scottish fiddling, Scottish harp, Celtic Groves entertainment, cultural activities

n Opening Ceremony

n Saturday Night Celtic Jam Concert at MacRae Meadows

Sunday, July 14

n Scottish Heavy Athletic Demonstration and Clinic, Highland Dancing competition

n The Kirkin Worship Service

n Parade of Tartans, Guests of Honor & Distinguished Guests are introduced as all members of the sponsoring clans are invited to march in the parade

n Highland Dance Championship Competition, Scottish athletic events, sheep herding,

kilted miles, children’s events, Scottish country dancing, Scottish fiddles and harps, piping competitions, Clan Tugs-of-War, Celtic Grove entertainment, history and cultural activities

n Closing Ceremonies

For tickets, detailed schedules, maps, and information on lodging, parking and shuttle buses, visit the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games website at gmhg.org. And be sure to pick up the summer issue of CML for additional highlights on the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.

Sheep Herding at the Highland Games

Massed Bands on Parade at the Highland Games

Field and Track Competitions at the Highland Games

The Piper Jones Band

Abingdon Visitors Center: visitabingdonvirginia.com

Ashe County Chamber of Commerce: ashechamber.com

Avery Chamber of Commerce: averycounty.com

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce: bannerelk.org

Beech Mountain TDA: beechmtn.com

Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce: blowingrockncchamber.com

Boone Chamber of Commerce: boonechamber.com

Burnsville-Yancey Chamber of Commerce: yanceychamber.com

Caldwell County Chamber of Commerce: caldwellchambernc.com

Damascus, VA: visitdamascus.org

Elkin, NC: exploreelkin.com

Explore Boone: getyouraweback.com

Johnson County, TN, Chamber of Commerce: johnsoncountytn.org

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The Joys of the Spring Season Onstage in the High Country

“I have nature and art and poetry, and if that is not enough, what is?”

By Keith Martin

That Vincent van Gogh quotes adorns a restaurant in Ontario, Canada, near the famed Stratford Festival. Almost 135 years after the noted artist left us, that sentiment resonates with me as I consider all the joys of nature this spring while anticipating the artistry about to bloom on local stages throughout the High Country. Arts festivals, plays, musicals, concerts, and dance offerings are filling theatres and concert venues near and far with an endless stream of exciting programming.

Here are several of the events that have been announced from now through late June, plus a sneak peek at select summer offerings, each listed alphabetically by producing company, with many more to be announced shortly. PLEASE NOTE that all the performances, dates, and times are subject to change; readers are strongly encouraged to check individual websites and/or the theatre box offices for the most current information. See you at the theatre!

The largest organization on our beat, featuring dozens of events each month, is the venerable APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY (ATHC), an 85-year old vaudeville movie venue in Boone lovingly restored to its former glory. Concert wise, the internationally acclaimed jazz artist and dedicated educator Emmet Cohen returns to the theatre on April 19 with his trio; Cohen is the winner of the 2019 American Pianists Awards, and a finalist in the 2011 Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition. May 10 brings hometown favorite Adam Church back to the Doc Watson Stage close to where he grew up in nearby Foscoe, NC. Adam attended App State, where he met fellow classmate and future country music star Luke Combs, who

asked Adam to join his first band. Opening the evening is another Boone local group, the Pressley Laton Band.

Del McCurry returns on May 5 for Cinco de Mayo and yet another sold out concert, then Mipso follows on May 30; the band formed in 2012 as an excuse to play together between classes in Chapel Hill and have become known for combining a traditional string band format with close harmony and a variety of modern influences. The band is made up of Wood Robinson, Jacob Sharp, Joseph Terrell, and Libby Rodenbough. On June 28, Bluffett, featuring “The Son of a Sailor Band,” is a 100 percent live-on-stage tribute to the legendary Jimmy Buffett & The Coral Reefer Band, complete with beach-type props and costuming to transport you back to “Margaritaville”!

The theatre’s popular Local Night @TheApp series continues June 2 with Western Watauga’s own Loose Roosters, who have earned a local following playing all over the High Country. The band blends their roots music background into an electric experience that is both ethereal and exciting. They will be joined by Real Companion, a project of Boone songwriter Seth Sullivan, whose songs “explore loss, sobriety, fatherhood, and the life of a small town rocker as he approaches 40.”

And then there are the films, whose screenings return the 1938 Art Deco venue to its original roots. IF4: The International Fly Fishing Film Festival is the world’s leading event of its type, consisting of films produced by professional filmmakers from all corners of the globe and showcases the passion, lifestyle, and culture of fly fishing. “Star Wars Day” on May 4 (“May the Fourth be with you”… get it?) will have back-to-back showings of the three now-classic films that began

the Star Wars franchise, as will the three-film Back to the Future-thon on May 26 and the Pirates of the Caribbean-thon on June 29 and 30 with consecutive screenings of all five films in the series. AppTheatre.org

Over in West Jefferson at the wonderfully intimate Ashe Civic Center, the ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL has, yet again, programmed several events worthy of consideration. Wordkeepers on April 20 lets writers share their latest prose and poetry in five-minute open mic time slots and it’s free and open to the public. On April 21, the Kontras Quartet appears on their Chamber Music Series with their “vibrant and nuanced performances,” “crisp precision” and “superlative artistry.” Coffee House Live takes place on May 3 showcasing local and regional acts, this month focusing on pianists.

The Jeff Little Trio appear at the Civic Center on June 8 with special guest Wayne Henderson. NPR said that “Little is a remarkable musician, steeped in the tradition of his native Blue Ridge, yet also a virtuosic and eclectic innovator.” Henderson has performed from Carnegie Hall to seven nations in Asia and is a recipient of a 1995 National Heritage Award presented by the National Endowment for the Arts. For tickets and information, visit AsheCountyArts.org.

Timing is everything. The ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE is producing the landmark musical Fiddler on the Roof exactly sixty years after its 1964 debut marked the end of the “Golden Age of Broadway,” which began in 1943 with Oklahoma! With music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and book by Joseph Stein, the story is set in the Anatevka settlement of Imperial Russia around 1905

Emmet Cohen at Appalachian Theatre of the High Country

Grandma Gatewood at the Barter Theatre

and is based on “Tevye and his Daughters” and other tales by beloved author Sholem Aleichem. Performances run from June 20 –23 in the Ashe Civic Center. If “tradition” for this company holds true, you better not wait to get your seats. For tickets and information, visit ashecountylittletheatre.org.

Check out the Local Business News on page 96 of this issue to read about renovations to the Gilliam Stage at the BARTER THEATRE in Abingdon, VA, the “State Theatre of Virginia.” Their mainstage venue reopened with Ring of Fire - The Music of Johnny Cash, Richard Maltby, Jr., and William Meade’s tuner that follows the story of Cash’s life from the cotton fields of Arkansas to the Memphis launch of his musical career, and his marriage to his beloved June Carter and all the soul-stirring music he created along the way. The show closes on May 11, but opening that same day through June 3 is Grandma Gatewood Took a Walk, a new play by Catherine Bush. Emma Gatewood was a 67-year-old who told her children she was “going for a walk” but failed to mention that it would be over 2,000 miles through 14 states, making her the first woman to solo through-hike the newly formed Appalachian Trail. Look for Barter favorite Mary Lucy Bivins in the title role.

In addition, the musical version of L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz begins performances on May 26 with memorable music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. (Yip) Harburg. The BARTER PLAYERS’ Classic Theatre for Kids of All Ages” has two family-friendly shows on tap with Joseph Robinette’s adaptation of the classic Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White continuing through May 14 and Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel opening June 4. Eric Lane

Barnes’ musical is based on the book by Virginia Lee Burton. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit Barter’s website at BarterTheatre. com

Check out our Regional Happenings and Music Guide for details about the third annual BOONERANG MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL, taking place on June 14-15 on seven different stages/venues in Boone, NC. This free downtown street festival is a community homecoming that brings Boone-connected artists and fans “to Boonerang back to the place we love.” Boone’s Got Talent is a new, kick-off event that has been added to the line-up June 13, during which High Country acts can showcase their talent on the Doc Watson Stage at the historic Appalachian Theatre. AppTheatre. org

The CITY OF MORGANTON MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (CoMMA) has blues legend Keb’ Mo’ Live performing on June 2. “With five Grammys, 14 Blues Foundation Awards, and a groundbreaking career spanning nearly 50 years under his belt, Keb’ Mo’s got nothing left to prove. Just don’t tell him that.” On June 8, One Night Only: A Tribute to the Bee Gees uses incredible vocal talents, impeccable harmonies, and powerful voices to bring the iconic sound of the Bee Gees to life. Pay attention to the apt title of this event because it is only being presented for one night only. Additional information and tickets are available at commaonline.org or by phone at 800-939SHOW (7469).

The DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE AND DANCE at App State has only one production remaining on their season, but it’s a goodie:

the rarely produced Carrie: The Musical. Adapted from Stephen King’s 1974 horror novel, Carrie, published exactly 50 years ago, the show focuses on an awkward teenage girl with telekinetic powers whose lonely life is dominated by an oppressive religious fanatic mother. When she is humiliated by her classmates at the high school prom, Carrie unleashes chaos on everyone and everything in her path out of vengeance. The music is composed by Michael Gore with lyrics by Dean Pitchford and book by Lawrence D. Cohen; it is performed April 24 – 28 in the Valborg Theatre. TheatreandDance.AppState.edu

EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY (ETSU) in Johnson City, TN, has two must-see national tours coming up beginning with Mean Girls, music by Jeff Richmond, lyrics by Nell Benjamin, and a book by Tina Fey. This popular musical is based on the 2004 film of the same name written by Fey, which in turn was based on the 2002 book “Queen Bees and Wannabes” by Rosalind Wiseman. The show premiered in Washington, D.C., in 2017 and opened on Broadway in April 2018, playing to SRO audiences before closing in March 2020 due to the pandemic, but now it lives again on film and in this fast-paced national tour. Performances will be given in the Martin Center for the Arts from April 29 - May 1.

The other event is STOMP, a show that is “explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages.” The international percussion sensation garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous national TV shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion

Adam Church at Appalachian Theatre of the High Country

Keb’ Mo’ at CoMMA

Jeff Little at Ashe County Arts

Ring of Fire at the Barter Theatre

instruments—matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps—to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. As USA Today says, “STOMP finds beautiful noises in the strangest places.” See what all the noise is about at etsu.edu/martincenter

Don’t let the 15th Anniversary Season of ENSEMBLE STAGE fool you; the husband/wife duo leading this organization has decades of theatre experience. They will take to the stage of the Historic Banner Elk School from June 14 – 24 when Moon Over the Brewery, “a heartwarming comedy” by Bruce Graham, opens their season. It is followed on June 29 by Robin Hood, “a show for kids” by Kathryn Schultz Miller with subsequent performances on July 13, 27, and August 10. www.EnsembleStage.com

For the third year in a row, the HIGH COUNTRY JAZZ FESTIVAL (HCJF) brings to life a decades-long dream of local musician Todd Wright: a collaborative project to host exceptional and engaging jazz experiences that attract regional audiences to our region. More importantly, the festival raises funds to support arts and education initiatives of the App Theatre, App State’s Jazz Studies Program, and Boone Sunrise Rotary, vital programs that sustain and enrich our High Country home. Taking place from June 7 through 9, this annual event has booked a very impressive line-up.

The Dave Brubeck Brothers Quartet opens the festival on June 7 with a style rooted in “straight-ahead” jazz in concerts that reveal an inherent ability to explore and play odd time signatures while naturally integrating the influences of funk, blues, and world music. The group’s creativity, technique and

improvisation can be heard in their uncompromising music, which reflects their dedication to melody, rhythm, culture, and the spontaneous spirit of jazz.

Jazzmeia Horn debuts at the App Theatre on June 8. Critics say that “Fans of such legendary jazz singers as Sarah Vaughan, Abbey Lincoln and Betty Carter—and more contemporary standouts including Cassandra Wilson, Cécile McLorin Salvant and neo-soul singer Erykah Badu—will likely discover a lot to love about Jazzmeia Horn.”

Charlotte-based tenor saxophonist Ziad closes out the Jazz Fest on June 9, having recorded with national artists including “The Godfather of Soul,” James Brown, Gospel Music Hall of Famer “John P. Kee,” chart-topping recording artist “Donald Lawrence and the Tri–City Singers,” the “Impressions,” and many more. For more info, festival packages, and additional events such as jazz luncheons and late-night jams, go to HighCountryJazzFestival. org

LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE has two live performing arts series featured on pages 32 and 33 in this edition of CML. Be sure to check out the FORUM for presented events and the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre for the production of original musicals.

Likewise, MERLEFEST 2024 takes place April 25 through 28 on the campus of Wilkes Community College. Please go to our Regional Happenings and Music Guide in this issue for more information or visit merlefest.org

TWEETSIE RAILROAD is North Carolina’s first theme park, opening on the Fourth of July in 1957. Known primarily as a Wild West adventure park with amusement rides and a petting zoo, Tweetsie features stunning

three-mile long train rides aboard a historic, coal-fired, narrow gauge steam locomotive. From a performing arts perspective, Tweetsie is a major employer of professional talent and produces 21 performances of a half-dozen live entertainment and stage shows each day. A sampling of offerings includes the Can-Can Dancers, Country Clogging Jamboree, Hopper and Porter’s Musical Celebration, The Magic Show, and the ever-popular Sunset Show. Just as the cowboys ride off into the sunset at the end of the movie, Tweetsie’s entertainers mosey into the Palace for one last show at the end of the day, featuring performers from every show together on one stage. The 2024 season runs from April 6 to October 27. Tweetsie.com

WILKES COMMUNITY COLLEGE (WCC)

and their John A. Walker Community Center in Wilkesboro are presenting This is the 60’s Live on June 6. The show is a walk through the most historic and memorable decade of the last century, from JFK to Beatlemania to Viet Nam and Woodstock, with a combination of unforgettable video images, narration, costumes, lighting, and live music performances to re-create the entire Sixties in all its colorful glory. Additional information and tickets are available online at WalkerCenterOnline.org.

This is the 60s Live Walker Center

Jazzmeia Horn High Country Jazz Festival

Brubeck Quartet High Country Jazz Festival

A Sneak Peek at Cultural Events in Our Upcoming Summer Issue

Space limitations and print deadlines simply do not permit listing all of the wonderful productions on the summer horizon (some announced, others yet to be confirmed), but you might want to check out websites of the following organizations for advance notice about these events:

The 40th Season of AN APPALACHIAN SUMMER FESTIVAL runs June 29 to July 27; the major events will feature An Evening with Natalie Merchant: Keep Your Courage Tour, with the Western Piedmont Symphony on June 29, Buddy Guy: Damn Right Farewell on July 12, Broadway star Norm Lewis on July 14, St. Paul and The Broken Bones on July 20, the Paul Taylor Dance Company on July 24, all at the Schaefer Center. The Broyhill Classic Concert Series includes the Eastern Festival Orchestra with special guest Béla Fleck on June 30, Chanticleer: Sing Joyfully on July 3, Canadian Brass on July 10, the Bell-DenkIsserlis Trio on July 18, Simone Dinnerstein and Awadagin Pratt pianists on July 21, and Brad Paisley: Son of the Mountains World Tour on July 27.

Plus… the BARTER THEATRE’S Shawshank Redemption opens June 15, Cry It Out begins June 21, The Play That Goes Wrong opens August 31, and BARTER PLAYER’S productions of Snow White begins July 9 and A Wrinkle in Time opens September 24;

BEANSTALK COMMUNITY THEATRE’s Matilda: The Musical runs July 22-27 at the App Theatre; ENSEMBLE STAGE’S Mindgame, a psychological thriller by Anthony Horowitz performs July 19 – 28, Distance Music, a witty drama by James McLindon runs August 16 – 25, and The Love List, an unpredictable comedy by Norm Foster takes the stage from September 13 – 22; and, finally, HORN IN THE WEST, opens their 72nd season of Kermit Hunter’s outdoor drama in the Daniel Boone Amphitheatre on June 21.

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The FORUM at Lees-McRae College

“Entertaining Music Series” Celebrates Its 45th Season

By Keith Martin

Acapacity crowd files noisily into the Hayes Auditorium of the Broyhill Theatre at Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, NC. Friends greet friends, newcomers are introduced and welcomed, people leave their seats to say hello to summer residents they haven’t seen since last year, while others engage in excited conversations about the concert they are about to see onstage.

They are quieted only when a delightfully entertaining host takes the stage to lead those assembled in an acapella rendition of “God Bless America” while the lyrics are projected on large screens to the right and left of the auditorium. Everyone stands, hats are removed, hands placed over hearts as if singing our national anthem (which isn’t sung until closer to the fourth of July).

It feels more like being in church than a theatre, but audience members flock religiously to the venue each Monday afternoon and evening from mid-June through early August, just as they have for fourand-a-half decades. Such is The FORUM at Lees-McRae College, an “entertaining music series” that is celebrating its 45th Anniversary Season in 2024.

There are two performances for each concert event, beginning at 5 and 7:30 p.m. Those in attendance with me at the afternoon show were so appreciative, that

more than one person rushed to the box office to see if any tickets were left for the next performance so they could see it yet again. Restaurants anywhere near Banner Elk are delighted to have three different rush periods with early diners, between the show customers, and mid-evening patrons who wait to eat until after the second show. Hint: be sure to make your reservations early.

The FORUM was organized in 1979 by a small group of summer residents for the purpose of bringing a stimulating series of cultural programs to the area. With the help of Lees-McRae College, one of the region’s most important resources, FORUM has grown significantly over the decades and continues to provide both cultural enrichment and wholesome entertainment to the community.

“We are proud of how FORUM has enhanced the cultural environment of the local area during its 45 years of existence,” said Lees-McRae President Dr. Lee King. “Lees-McRae College appreciates its special relationship with FORUM and its patrons.”

One of the keys to the FORUM’s success is the dedicated involvement and cooperation between seasonal residents, locals, and Lees-McRae College. The FORUM Board of Directors is made up of

representatives from each of these groups. French Harvey, chair of the FORUM’s selection committee, said that as many as 75 different artists and groups are considered each year for the eight concerts that make up their two-month-long season.

The formula for the selection of programs is unique. Events are selected as a result of personal contact with area residents and national talent agents with recommendations made to Harvey’s program selection committee and approved by the FORUM board of directors, led by Joe Samuel. This is the group that finalizes the concerts for each season, then contacts the artists or their representatives to check availability during their time frame and negotiate fees that stay within FORUM’s frugal budget.

Expenses for FORUM programs are underwritten by contributors. In special cases, entire programs are underwritten by members of the community. The board plans each year’s offerings based on the previous year’s donations, while attempting to balance its choices by providing presentations by vocalists, Big Band/brass, chamber ensembles, pianists, dance, and drama.

The 2024 season demonstrates the time, effort, and care that went into its selection. It begins on June 17 with a retrospective stage show about the golden age of rock ‘n’

SOS

Shake Baby Shake

roll titled “Shake Baby Shake” and is followed one week later by the “Rhinestone Cowgirls” paying homage to the legendary ladies of country music on June 24. For the fifth year in a row, the Symphony of the Mountains returns to the FORUM with a fully professional orchestra of more than 60 musicians conducted by maestra Cornelia Laemmli Orth, in concert on July 1.

Vocal artists and tribute groups follow with the single-named artist Kara performing “Believe – A Tribute to Cher” on July 8, with “The Modern Gentlemen” performing the hits of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons one week later. “The Ultimate Eagles Experience” is being offered by the group 7 Bridges on July 22, with the music of Motown showcased on July 29 by “The Sounds of Soul.” The season closes on August 5 with a return engagement “back by popular demand” when cabaret artist Jenene Caramielo performs songs from “Broadway to the Big Screen.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the FORUM website at www.lmc.edu/forum.

“We are proud of how FORUM has enhanced the cultural environment of the local area during its 45 years of existence. “

~ Dr. Lee King, President, Lees-McRae College

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre 2024

Celebrates the High Country and Launches Lees-McRae College’s 125th Anniversary

By Mark File

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre returns to the stage for its 39th season with a bright spotlight on the extraordinary people of the High Country—past and present. Don’t miss the return of one of the most inspiring mountain stories ever told. Next, a joyous jamboree showcases talents from the Blue Ridge.

While there’s only one full-scale musical this summer, it’s a big one with an encore staging of From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story. The inspiring show about the early days of Banner Elk first ran in 2019 with immediate requests for its return. The show will serve as a launch into a year of celebration as Lees-McRae College will be 125 years old. The extended run will include eight shows.

Get to know the man who brought Banner Elk to life and changed the course of its history forever. Tufts arrived in our isolated mountain valley in 1895 as a seminary student to organize a church; that was just the beginning. After falling in love with the local people, he devoted his life to finding solutions to the many needs he discovered. His determination and faith brought healthcare, education, shelter, electricity and hope to this remote area full of poverty.

The production is set to music by John Thomas and Tommy Oaks, with book by Janet Barton Speer (the team who brought you The Denim King; the Moses Cone Story, America’s Artist: The Norman Rockwell Story; and The Wright Sister). Using traditional mountain music, mixed with a lyrical style, audiences will once again be moved and inspired by this great man who had no patience with boundaries.

“When I came to Lees-McRae in 1978, I was captivated by the story of Rev. Edgar Tufts,” Speer said. “Edgar Tufts became enamored with mountain people [when he first arrived here]—most uneducated, but abundant in wisdom and wiliness to work an unforgiving land. Banner Elk is a town based on service, and it still is. The service of learning, the service of attending to marginalized children, the service of healing, and the service of faith. Our history of service deserves celebration and that’s what we hope to do with this play.”

As Lees-McRae College launches its 125th anniversary, this show is a reminder of the extraordinary results from simple deeds. Rev. and Mrs. Tufts found many eager young minds with no opportunities for education, so they invited youth to their home to read. Next, they began a one room school in their attic. In 1900, the first dormitory opened and “Lees-McRae Institute” began with 12 girls.

From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story evening shows run on July 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 at 7 p.m., with matinee shows on July 20, 21, and 23 at 2 p.m.

After the big success of last year’s debut of a variety show, the new “High Country Talent Jamboree” on July 26 will highlight some of the many special aspects of life in the North Carolina mountains, featuring the best music, dancing, comedy, and patriotic songs of Southern Appalachia. That show will be presented July 26 at 7 p.m.

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre has provided top quality, professional theatre in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Dr. Janet Barton Speer founded Lees-McRae Summer Theatre in 1985 with a simple goal of making the audience a happier or better people. This unique hybrid of professional, educational, and community theatre includes aspiring performers and technicians working alongside award-winning industry professionals.

Tickets go on sale in May.

For more information, go to lmc.edu/summertheatre.

Jenene Caramielo

Benton Hall and the Wilkes Playmakers

Historic 1913 School Now a Vibrant Community Arts Center

Retired pharmacist Steve Critz is anything but retired. He is one of some 350 annual volunteers who give freely of their time, talents, and resources in support of the Wilkes Playmakers, a vibrant, avocational theatre based in North Wilkesboro. A founding member of the organization dating back to 1990, Critz’s energy and enthusiasm is contagious as he talks excitedly about the theatre’s home in historic Benton Hall, a 1913 landmark originally constructed to house the North Wilkesboro School.

“Benton Hall means a lot to our town because it is a venue for anyone who wants to participate in community theatre,” he said, while noting that there are activities in the arts center nearly every day. Currently, it serves as a host to a variety of business meetings, professional functions, civic celebrations and private gatherings and public events, ranging from classes and workshops to weddings and, just last weekend, a memorial service.

“It’s unlike any other space in the entire county,” he said, while proudly guiding me through the Benton Hall’s earliest history from its construction up to the present day.

The local economy was booming in 1913, so the city built a grand, architecturally unique school building as an investment in the community’s future. Holding

By Keith Martin

various age groups at different times, the North Wilkesboro School was locally renowned for its academic excellence. According to their website, it was so desirable that at one time parents from other districts paid a fee for their children to attend, and soon the massive building was bursting at its seams.

In 1924, an additional building was constructed to hold the additional students. The 1930s gym was replaced with a newer version in 1964 with new classrooms, a band room, a teachers’ lounge, and offices for the superintendent and board of education. Thousands of students attended the school until it closed its doors in 1978 and was abandoned and left in disrepair.

When the Wilkes Regional Medical Center and the Health Foundation were exploring locations for a wellness center, local businessman Clarence Benton made a sizeable donation so that the Foundation could purchase the building and restore it to use. Mr. Benton erected a plaque in memory of his beloved wife, Lucille (who was a proud alumna of the school), and faithfully tended a flower garden in tribute to her. After engineers deemed the property unsuitable for heavy fitness equipment, the foundation leased spaces in the building for a mere $1 per year to nonprofit

partners such as Wilkes Regional Medical Center, Wilkes Partnership for Children, Friends of the Library, and the Wilkes Playmakers.

In honor of his continued benevolence, the Health Foundation surprised Mr. Benton by renaming the property Benton Hall. It also commissioned local artist Vic Spencer to complete the stained glass, installed at the grand entrance, where a bee (“B,” as in Benton, get it?) symbolizes Benton’s love of nature and the many kindnesses he pollinated throughout his lifetime. According to Critz, the entire property was deeded over to the Playmakers in 2000, a gift that came with one stipulation: that it would forever be known as Benton Hall.

Critz credits Benton and another civic leader, former Lowe’s executive Pete Kulynych, with being “generous local philanthropists who cared deeply about Wilkes Country and just wanted to give back to their community. We couldn’t have done it without them.”

Erica Marsh, who as part-time Managing Director is the only employee of the Playmakers, adds Critz to the list of key players in the theatre’s 34-year history. “Steve has done so much for the

Benton Hall, circa 1913

THIS IS THE 60’S LIVE

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Doors open 7:00pm | Show 7:30pm

Box Office: 336-8386260

walkercenteronline.org

Stay tuned for our upcoming 24-25 season

BENTON: Continued from previous page

organization with building renovations, upkeep, care, and his genuine love for Benton Hall, as well as being a primary donor for the facility in recent years.”

The auditorium, named after Critz’s late son, is believed to have been used for performances and other programs since the building’s construction over 110 years ago, and now houses plays, musicals, concerts, and productions every season by the allvolunteer Playmakers. It is one of over 6,000 avocational theatres in the United States, according to the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT), who believes that “It’s reasonable to assume that the number of performances by community theatres far exceeds the number of those by professional theatre, dance, and concert organizations... combined.”

On a modest budget of around $100K per year, the Wilkes Playmakers produces six shows annually for thousands of audience members each season. Marsh, who was a volunteer for 15 years before moving to part-time manager, is focused on fundraising, development, marketing, the website, and communications. Marsh, along with board president Dustin Crowley, gave a detailed tour of Benton Hall after a recent performance of “Puffs,” and teased all of the shows on their 2024 season.

Having just concluded a successful run of “Peter Pan,” rehearsals are underway for a comedy, “The Sweet Delilah Swim Club.” It will be followed by productions of “Snake in the Garden,” “Steel Magnolias,” “Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” and a holiday offering, “Reindeer Games.”

The theatre’s mission statement says it all: “Recognizing the powerful impact theatrical art has on humanity, Wilkes Playmakers is committed to providing entertainment, promoting cultural awareness, and nurturing inclusion through captivating stage performances, creative educational programs, and meaningful community experiences.”

For more information or to tickets, please visit their website at WilkesPlaymakers.com.

The Great Hall in Benton Hall

Boardroom and Kitchenette at Benton Hall

Black Box at Benton Hall

2024 Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Music Lineup

Back again is Ed Miller. But this year he’s joined forces with a new group they’ve named The Ed Miller Braw Band featuring Miller along with guitarist Scooter Muse, the father-daughter duo of Rich and Maddy Brotherton (vocals/guitar/fiddle & cittern), famed jazz drummer Jack Vogt, and singer/flutist Jil Chambless.

With the magical music of Scotland and Ireland, the Seán Heely Celtic Band features champion fiddler and Gaelic singer Heely, along with multi-instrumentalist and singer Kevin Elam, bouzouki and bass player Beth Patterson, percussionist Lucas Ashby, dancer Agi Kovacs, fiddler Colin McGlynn and piper Jesse Ofgang.

Another newly formed group made up of four excellent pipers is Pipe Dream. Familiar to Grandfather Games’ crowds, they don different musical hats in Pipe Dream, featuring Clandestine member Mary Elizabeth McQueen on fiddle, singer-songwriter David McLeod on bagpipe, Michael McLeod on guitar and vocals, and piper, percussionist, and multi-Celtic wind player Alex Stewart.

Holding audiences in a spell is internationally acclaimed champion fiddler Mari Black, with her energetic playing, sparkling stage presence, and dazzlingly virtuosic fiddling. She creates a spirited musical adventure featuring dance music from around the globe including Celtic, American, and Canadian fiddling, jazz, tango, klezmer, folk as well as her original works.

Western North Carolina’s Scottish music band, StrathSpan, is back featuring Julia Weatherford on cello, Nora Garver on fiddle, Cathleen Nixon on Scottish small pipes and fiddle, and Jason Higgins on drums. StrathSpan is

By Steve York

known for their innovative arrangements of traditional tunes, layering melodies, harmonies and rhythms; they create a rich musical tapestry combining lively jigs and reels, and forays into Irish, Scandinavian, and Breton traditions.

Also returning is The Reel Sisters duo featuring Rosalind Buda on the Scottish smallpipe and Kelly Brzozowski on the celestial harp. Both are highly accomplished musical artists and music teachers who have performed throughout the U.S. and Europe. Known for their lighthearted, uplifting and stirring performances, they offer their audience a refreshingly intimate musical experience.

New to Grandfather is the Voices of Valverda trio of female singers from Appalachia who specialize in traditional and original Celtic music. Coming from families of singers and musicians, their performance always features a wide range of ballads and old folk songs that are rich with Scottish and Irish history and topped off with classic Celtic jigs.

Asheville’s Tune Shepherds bring a trio of flute, fiddle and guitar to the Meadows with a blend of older published Scottish instrumental music heralding from the 17th and 18th centuries. The trio breathes new life and a new interpretation into these classic old tunes. The band consists of flute player/maker Chris Abell, country dance fiddler Michael Garner and Grammy winning guitarist Bruce Nemerov.

Scottish born and raised, Mike Ogletree (a.k.a. The Blaxcotsman) comes back this year. He’s an accomplished drummer, percussionist, singer/songwriter, guitarist, sound engineer and music producer. Throughout his career he has toured and recorded with some of the top performers in their fields culminating in his

n Full GMHG event and music details at gmhg.org. Grove band schedules, Alex Beaton

players, piping competitions, and the Friday/Saturday night concerts are available at piperjones.com/gmhg2024/.

work as a solo artist and joining the lineup.

A welcome and familiar face at Grandfather is Colin Shoemaker, a well-known product of the Charlotte Celtic music scene who is steeped in the tradition of Celtic wind instruments. He is remarkably self-taught on Irish Flute, Pennywhistle, and the Breton Bombarde and features multiple Celtic playing traditions in his performances across many southeastern festivals.

The Piper Jones Band returns featuring Scottish piper and Games Music Director EJ Jones on bagpipe and whistle; Grand Ole Opry veteran and traditional Irish music devotee Frances Cunningham on the strumming bouzouki; Scottish-born balladeer and popular Facebook “Howler” Wolf Loescher, on lead percussion; and the multi-talented/multi-instrumental Alex Stewart, thundering on the giant backline base drums at the rear of the stage. They all sing and play as they deliver interCeltic piping and folk songs all wrapped into a powerful, danceable show that never stops entertaining.

Finally, Friday night’s Celt Rock Concert finale brings ecstatic crowds to stage to celebrate with world-famous performers and recording artists Seven Nations Celtic Rock Band. Major stars at the Grandfather Games for decades, the band features lead singer/songwriter and Highland bagpiper Kirk McLeod on guitar and keyboard, Brad Green on lead Highland bagpipe, Jim “Stuby” Struble on bass guitar, Julian Lambertson on blazing fiddle, and wild man Dean Andrews on drums. Raising crowd excitement to a fever pitch, Seven Nations tops off Friday evening’s rousing concert lineup as only they can.

stage

Performers are shown from top left to bottom right in order of their appearance in this ‘Sneak Peek’ story.

Spring Group Exhibition: Alchemy Of Abstraction / Harmony Unveiled May 25 thru July 15 | Opening Reception May 25, 2-5pm

Mid-Summer Group Exhibition: Nature’s Symphony / A Mulifaceted Landscape Exhibition July 27 thru September 15 | Opening Reception July 27, 2-5pm

Autumn Group Exhibition: Collective Artistic Odyssey / Visionaries Unveiled October 5 thru November 15 | Opening Reception October 5, 2-5pm

WINTER GROUP AND SMALL WORKS EXHIBITION: November 29 thru April 30

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE NOV 29 & 30, 10-5

A GALLERY FILLED WITH EXQUISITE GIFTS

www.CarltonGallery.com | 10 miles south of Boone Grandfather Mtn.Community 10360 Hwy 105 S., Banner Elk, NC 28604 | 828.963.4288 | Tues-Sat 10-5, Sun 11-5

Tickets: TheLibertyDrama.com

JAM Keeping Traditional Mountain Music Alive for Younger Generations

By Trimella Chaney

“Kids should be playing music and should be having fun!” says JAM instructor Liz Lanham.

That is certainly happening every Tuesday and Thursday night at the Jones House in downtown Boone under the supervision of Brandon Holder, the Director of the Boone Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) program. JAM students ages eight to seventeen pay a nominal fee to learn from and play with skilled bluegrass musicians. Instruments may be rented for $25 per semester, and scholarships are available. Walking into the Jones House and hearing the hums of a string bass, a banjo, or a mandolin, you can feel the spirit of Doc Watson, Stanley Hicks, Fred Proffitt and others.

From Silence to Song

Thanks to the vision and passion of Helen White, a Sparta Elementary School guidance counselor who became concerned when she noticed there were no students playing at local musical events, JAM was launched. White felt that today’s students had little access to traditional music. From this concern, she initiated an after-school music program funded by grant money to teach young people traditional mountain music.

Through JAM, students are taught music by ear, in the same way music was passed down through mountain families. Her vision grew to involve other counties in the region, including Watauga. Mark Freed, Director of Cultural Resources for the Town of Boone, shared Ms. White’s vision and initiated a JAM affiliate in Boone early in the program’s development. Today, under the Town’s sponsorship, the Boone JAM program has 20 classes with over 110 students meeting for 12 to15 weeks each spring and fall. Other affiliates include Ashe JAM, Avery JAM, Morganton JAM, Alleghany JAM,

and Upper East TN–Johnson City JAM.

Beyond the High Country, JAM has grown to include six states, with multiple locations, and a parent organization with offices in Grayson County, VA, and Knoxville, TN. This spring, Brett Morris, the Executive Director and President of JAM, has planned a multi-day “Traditional Music Education Summit” for more than 100 JAM teachers being held in Little Switzerland, NC, April 29-May 2. Participants learn from a panel of music educators and specialists on how music relates to neurological development, as well as how to preserve traditional music technique and content.

Ms. Morris acknowledges the widespread success of the JAM program—growing interest from both teachers and students has led to numerous performance opportunities for young musicians, including performances at the Earl Scruggs Music Festival in Tryon, NC, the International Bluegrass Music Association in Raleigh, and the International Folk Festival in Greensboro. And it is not uncommon for a former student of the program to return as a teacher.

A Front Row Seat at the Jones House

Cecil Gurganus is a teacher who has been with the program since it began in Boone. “What I have learned teaching in the JAM program is that it makes me a better player to teach these kids,” says Gurganus. “It pushes me!”

An outgrowth of one of Gurganus’ classes was the popular local group Strictly Strings comprised of Caleb Coatney, Kathleen and Anissa Burnett, Willow Dillon, and Gurganus himself. This group saw much success, ultimately touring together and producing a CD with some original music as well as traditional favorites. Parent support is a key element in the success of this program— JAM teachers readily acknowledge how this

support enables the students to perform in a variety of venues.

Traditionally, music was taught in the home and passed on by ear. I watched this process as Ms. Lanham taught a beginning fiddle class. She played a phrase and the students repeated the phrase back to her—no music books in sight. The smiles on their faces as their toes were tapping could not be ignored. Next door was the advanced class whose members ranged from ages 11 to 14. I immediately noticed a variety of instruments, as well as an easy camaraderie in the class. One student was nursing a soccer injury with an ice pack; another one was congratulated for winning a Fiddlers’ Convention contest; and yet another munched on a sandwich his mother had quickly handed him through the door.

JAM instructor Ella Hennessee arrived and began the class with a nod to the young mandolin player to start off the group’s first tune. Orson Cornett began the lively tune and was quickly joined by Patrick Walker, Asa Freed, Eli Richardson and Tucker Conner. The group immediately played “in concert.” The young man to my right, 11-year-old Noah Lanham, would normally play guitar on this song, but told me he was nursing a cut on his bandaged hand and sitting this one out. As I focused on enjoying the music, I suddenly heard the sound of a stand-up bass coming from his direction. Cut or no cut, Noah had jumped up to join in, deciding to play a different instrument. He looked at my surprised face and said, “I can use my left hand on this one.”

That tells the story. These enthusiastic students love to play and they are having fun....and they are preserving and honoring the rich mountain culture handed down to them.

For further details, visit jamkids.org.

Boone JAM Band on the Doc Watson Stage at the Appalachian Theatre. Photo courtesy Boone JAM

Photo courtesy Boone JAM

The Hills are Alive!

REGIONAL EVENTS & VENUES THAT FEATURE LIVE MUSIC:

n Boonerang Music & Arts Festival, boonerangfest.com

n High Country Jazz Festival, facebook.com/HighCountryJazzFest/

n Saloon Studios Live, saloonstudioslive.com

n Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music, mountainhomemusic.org

n Blowing Rock Concerts in the Park, blowingrock.com/concertinthepark/

n Banner Elk Concerts at Tate Evans Park, bannerelk.org/concerts-in-the-park.html

n MerleFest, merlefest.org

n FORUM at Lees-McRae College, lmc.edu/community/forum.htm

n Back Street Park Concert Series, ashechamber.com

n Coolest Corner Ashe Bash in Jefferson, NC, ashechamber.com/ashe-bash.php

n Ashe Civic Center in West Jefferson, NC, ashecountyarts.org/ashe-civic-center/

n Music in the Valle at Valle Crucis Park, vallecrucispark.org/music-in-the-valle/

n Orchard at Altapass, altapassorchard.org

n Appalachian Theatre of the High Country in Boone, NC, apptheatre.org

n Sugar Mountain Summer concerts/Grillin’ and Chillin’, seesugar.com/summer-concerts/

n An Appalachian Summer Festival, appsummer.org

n Jones House Cultural and Community Center in Boone, joneshouse.org

n Music on the Lawn at The Inn at Ragged Garden, ragged-gardens.com

n Banner Elk Winery, bannerelkwinery.com

n Beech Mountain, Live Music at 5506’, beechmountainresort.com

n Beech Mountain Resort 2024 Summer Concert Series, n beechmountainresort.com/summer-concert-series-2024/

n Grandfather Vineyard, grandfathervineyard.com

n Linville Falls Winery, linvillefallswinery.com

n Lost Province Brewery in Boone, lostprovince.com

n Villa Nove Vineyards, Johnson County, TN, facebook.com/VillaNoveVineyards/

n Watauga Lake Winery, Johnson County, TN, waterfrontgroupwatauga.com/watauga-lake-winery/

n Chef’s Table, bannerelkvillage.com/chefs-table/

n Stonewalls Restaurant, stonewallsrestaurant.com

n Banner Elk Café, Lodge and Tavern, bannerelkcafe.com

n Blind Elk Tap Room, facebook.com/BlindElk

n Crossnore Jam, Crossnore Drive, Crossnore 828-733-0360

n Green Park Inn, greenparkinn.com

n Old Barn Winery, oldbarnwinery.com

n Highlanders Grill, facebook.com/Highlandersbannerelk

n The Village of Banner Elk, bannerelkvillage.com/entertainment/

n Pedalin’ Pig BBQ, thepedalinpig.com

n Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria, famousbrickoven.com

n The Pineola, facebook.com/thepineola/events

n Casa Rustica, casarustica1981.com

n Timberlake’s Restaurant at Resort, chetola.com/dining-2/

In addition to the live music opportunities mentioned throughout this issue of CML, you can enjoy countless performances at venues all over the CML region. Here, we provide a list of websites that you can explore to help you plan your next music-filled outing this spring. Enjoy!

Event Calendars to Consult:

n High Country Host, highcountryhost.com/home Good regional event calendar covering Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone, Sparta, Sugar Mountain, West Jefferson, and Wilkesboro.

n Blue Ridge Music Trails, www.blueridgemusicnc. com | Good calendar for music events across western North Carolina, with a focus on Americana styles like bluegrass, old-time, blues, and more.

n Explore Boone, www.exploreboone.com | Brings you the most updated list of entertainment and events, from area festivals to workshops to sporting events and nightlife. Check their calendar for all the things to do in Boone and surrounding areas during winter, spring, summer, and fall.

n Chambers of Commerce — Ashe, Avery, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Boone, Beech, Morganton, Wilkes, Mitchell, Elkin, Yancey, Caldwell, Yadkin Valley, Abingdon, VA, Damascus, VA, and Johnson County, TN | Visit CMLmagazine.online and see the bottom of our CML community page for direct links to our local Chambers of Commerce and their event calendars.

For more information on live music in our region, check out Regional Happenings, Cultural Calendar, and Tidbits in this issue of CML, and sign up for our e-newsletters at CMLmagazine. online.

Old Barn Winery

Toni Carlton Making Artists of Art Lovers

By Emily Webb

In the early 1990s, Toni Carlton spent a month in Europe studying with artists Sally Atkins and Noyes Capehart. The experience of studying some of the greatest artists in history, working with Atkins— who founded the expressive arts program at Appalachian State University—and exploring new countries would forever shape her approach to art and her philosophy on life.

“I went with a friend and we started traveling on the weekends, following our intuition,” Carlton said. “We would land on a place where it was unbelievable that we landed at that place, and it just felt like something opened in my heart and made me more aware of how connected we all are. It was kind of a spiritual moment.”

Carlton started developing a new art practice centered on the theme of connection and exploring the inner self. The idea of creating heart connections was foundational to her career after graduation, particularly in establishing the summer art workshops program for which the Carlton Gallery is known.

Carlton grew up in the High Country in a highly artistic family. She began drawing from an early age, then fell in love with oil pastels after receiving them as a gift. Her grandmother taught her how to weave. In high school, she took every art class she could, including woodworking and architectural design. She attended App State, where she studied Fine Art, Industrial Technology, Crafts, and Art Marketing. As a college student, she built her

own loom by following the designs of her father and grandfather.

“Anything related to creating was my passion, and pretty much still is,” Carlton said.

While in college Carlton did an internship at the Virginia Beach Art Center. It was there that she fell in love with the gallery experience, from selecting artists to feature, to talking to customers and identifying the perfect piece for them.

After graduating from college, Carlton rented a space in Boone to house her loom and opened a gallery called Woven Works. Over time, she expanded her gallery offerings beyond fiber arts to include painting, pottery, jewelry, and various other media. She eventually moved both her studio and gallery to a space in the Foscoe area which she shared with another artist. When that artist moved out, she was left with a large open space that was ripe for a new purpose.

At first, Carlton and several artist friends used the space as a joint studio, before coming up with the idea to start teaching others. The first teachers included Vae Hamilton, Jim Crompton, and Andrew Braitman, who were happy to share their knowledge with others. More teachers were added over the years, and now the Carlton Gallery hosts workshops every week from May to October.

“It’s so much fun to have a group of people together and to be inspired by each other,” Carlton said. “Some people sign up for multiple workshops. And some of these people are getting so good. It’s amazing

just seeing the quality of what they’re doing just by taking time to learn.”

Many of those who participate in the workshops from year to year are seasonal residents of the High Country, drawn to the mild summers and natural beauty of the Blue Ridge. They decorate their homes with beautiful landscapes of the area, then sign up to learn from the very artists whose works they admire. For Carlton, the ability to connect art lovers and artists in such a personal way is directly related to her personal mission to use art as a means to bring people together.

As an artist, Carlton specializes in bringing together multiple media into a single piece. She might start by journaling or meditatively weaving at her loom to get a sense of the theme and texture of the piece. Then she will write a prayer or song on the canvas that reflects the energy she wants to put into the world before fully or partially covering it up with woven fiber, painted paper, or calligraphic writing. At the end of the process is a layered work designed to invoke specific feelings of joy, peace, or oneness in the viewer. And in her own workshop, “Heartfelt Expressions— Art as Prayer,” this is the artistic practice she introduces to others.

In her workshops, Carlton leads attendees through an expressive art experience that starts with meditation and quick writing, then turns toward movement and making music. In 2023, all the attendees worked on a single large piece of paper—

CARLTON: continued from previous page first writing out thoughts and prayers, then adding color. At the end, the group lifted the paper and sang together.

“It lets people play but also really feel that love in their heart and be able to send that energy into the world,” Carlton said.

While the majority of Carlton’s customers are looking for something specific to add to their home, sometimes a person comes in wanting something a little out of the ordinary. These are the customers she brings to her studio. Like Carlton, they value art as a means of connection to others, of moving beyond the self. Carlton will explain the thought process behind a particular piece, even reading passages from the journals she kept while working on it. These moments of opening her heart to someone, and having them understand and appreciate what she’s trying to say, are precious.

“It’s a treat to me to see people cry, literally, when they get what I’m talking about or what I’m doing or why I do it,” Carlton said. “It’s lovely to let my art go to people’s homes who really appreciate them and understand them and where I’m coming from.”

In her roles as gallery owner, workshop facilitator, teacher, and artist, Carlton has dedicated her life to using art to connect her community. Year after year, her customers return to the High Country to support and learn from local artists, renewing those bonds that Carlton has spent decades forging.

Spring

Exhibition and Upcoming Workshops at the Carlton Gallery

Spring Group Exhibition: Alchemy of Abstraction – Harmony Unveiled May 25 through July 15, Opening Reception May 25, 2-5 p.m.

Spring Workshops:

n May 28, 29, 30 (10 a.m. – 5p.m.)

“Impressionistic Landscapes in Acrylic Using Palette Knives” with Egi Antonaccio - $385

Experience color and the music of life through landscapes, cityscapes, florals and pastoral or garden scenes. Bold, bright, and random shapes of color (like playing in kindergarten) to amazing layers of acrylic paint defining texture on the canvas embodies impressionistic details.

n June 4, 5, 6 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

“Abstract Adventures” in Acrylic/Mixed Media” with Lisa B. Boardwine - $450 ($15 supply fee payable to Lisa on the first day of workshop)

In this three-day workshop experience, the focus will be on how to kick start your abstract paintings in acrylic/ mixed media! Learn how to create abstract paintings with texture, color and mark making to add depth and unique meaning to your work. Throughout the workshop, you’ll explore the tools, foundations and techniques used in acrylics/mixed media abstract painting.

n June 11, 12, 13 (10 a.m.-5 p.m.)

“Mini Alla Prima in Oil” with Nicholas Stewart - $385

In this Mini Alla Prima (at the start, one time through) workshop, we will discuss how to look at and break down the essence of a landscape, such as the directional stroke, rhythm, color, or value. We will also talk about how each landscape will be broken down into at least 3 different sections, along with how to think about the unbalance and eye movement through the art works. We will discuss the 5 main points that make up a little alla prima, including color, direction, tool, focal point, and texture.

n June 18, 19, 20 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)

“Painting with Knives in Acrylic” with Karin Neuvirth - $349

Create vibrant, textural, impressionistic landscapes using a palette knife and heavy body acrylic paints.  Palette knife painting is all about using interesting shapes of broken color in your composition. Painting with a knife will force you to loosen up and abstract the details of your subject. We will also cover topics such as color mixing, broken color, the use of value in your composition, and the benefits of an under-painting.

n June 25, 26, 27 (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) ***

“Realistic Impressionism in Oil” - any subject matter using your photographs with Egi Antonaccio - $385

Egi is known for realistic impressionism whose paintings express his love of nature. The misty atmosphere and the sun often play a great part in his paintings, casting shadows on the paths and mountains depicting different times of the day. His technique is light, delicate, and gentle with romantic themes in these realistic impressionist paintings, while each painting evokes feelings of strength, grace and wonderment. Participants will explore the intriguing techniques to capture the essence of nature on canvas.

Participants with all levels of painting and artistic experiences are welcome to any of the above workshops. For more details on these events, future events, and to register, please visit carltongallery.com. Early registration is encouraged, as space is limited. A $100 deposit is required with Pre-Registration for all workshops. Contact Information: 828-963-4288 or carltongallery@carltongallery.com.

***Please review our cancellation/refund policy for more information

Carlton Gallery Workshop

Toni Carlton

Art Remarks

By CML Staff

Some of the world’s best visual artwork and fine (and functional) crafts can be found right here in the High Country. In addition to the annual arts & crafts festivals taking place throughout the region this spring—see our Regional Happenings—we have many newsworthy topics to share related to our popular galleries and working artists.

Two Special Events at Mica Gallery

Mica Gallery, in partnership with the Traditional Voices Group, will host photographs by Atlanta-based artist Jonathan Hillyer in an exhibition entitled “Raised by Women” from April 20 to May 8. This body of work features photographs of mothers who have lived in the Burnsville, NC, community of Lincoln Park. “Raised by Women ” celebrates the strength of women, their personal pride and independence, and their commitment to family and community. Central to the exhibition is a poem of the same title by Kelly Norman Ellis, a founding member of the Affrilachian Poets. As part of “Raised by Women,” Affrilachian poet Crystal Dawn Good will work in the Mitchell and Yancey County Schools for National Poetry Month and read at Mica Gallery’s opening on Friday, April 26. The Affrilachian Poets are a grassroots group of poets of color living in the Appalachian region. Traditional Voices Group produced the exhibit with a grant from Toe River Arts.

On Friday, May 24, Mica Gallery hosts its annual “Kick Off to Summer” event from 5-7 p.m. Join old friends and make new ones at this fun opportunity to sip and browse in the gallery after hours. Artists will be on hand to discuss their works. View new works by Mica members Robbie Bell, Vicki Essig, Lisa Joerling, Jean McLaughlin, Teresa Pietsch, and David Ross as well

as works by 30 guest artists invited for the 2024 year. Among the invited guest artists are Kurt Anderson, Pam Brewer, Jim Cooper, Dan Essig, Bridget Fox, John Geci, Stacey Lane, Kimberly Obee, Colin O’Reilly, Kit Paulsen, Elizabeth Sparks, Tom Spleth, and Julie Wiggins.

Mica is an artist-run gallery of fine art and contemporary craft located at 37 N. Mitchell Avenue in Bakersville, NC. This spring, the gallery is open daily with hours Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon-5 p.m. Follow the gallery at micagallerync.com, on Facebook at Mica Gallery NC or on Instagram at micagallerync

The Fischman Gallery: Celebrating Two Years in Johnson City, TN

With a focus on local and regional artists, the Fischman Gallery is one of the newer galleries in our region, offering monthly shows with an opening reception on the first Friday of each month. In April, the Gallery presents «Torn Between: Collage and Paper Pulp Paintings by Taylor Norris.» Through the unique medium of collage, employing torn recycled paper and raw pulp, Norris›s pieces emerge as textured narratives, weaving together the seen and the remembered, the real and the imagined. «The process of creating these collages is a means of connection—to the earth, to my roots in Appalachia, and to the myriad experiences that shape my existence,» Norris says. «As an autistic individual, the tactile quality of my work is important; the varied textures are not only a fundamental aspect of my artistic practice but also a bridge to the world around me, allowing me to connect with nature and my surroundings in a deeply personal and profound way.”

This body of work is an ode to Appalachia, a region whose beauty and complexity

are central to Norris’s identity and their art. It is a meditation on the themes of loss, memory, and the relentless passage of time, yet also a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the possibility of renewal, and the enduring power of the earth to heal and to harbor.

“Torn Between: Collage and Paper Pulp Paintings by Taylor Norris” will be at Fischman Gallery through April 28. The gallery is located at 133 N Commerce St, Johnson City, TN, and open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Facebook @ FischmanGallery, 423-430-8441

Artists in Residence at Edgewood Cottage

Heading to Blowing Rock? Visit Edgewood Cottage! Charming Edgewood Cottage, the restored original home and studio of renowned American artist Elliott Daingerfield, opens its doors every May to welcome local juried artists. Each artist shows, tells and sells their art to visitors from near and far. In the last years, visitors have come from three different countries and over 30 states to enjoy local outstanding art.

What makes this experience so different? When you go to Edgewood, you’ll see many of the artists creating their art, either on the porch or inside of this intimate Cottage. They look forward to meeting you, talking with you about their processes and art, and answering any questions you might have.

This year, different artists will share the Cottage—two a week, every week—from Memorial Day (May 27) through Labor Day weekend, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Their work includes, but is not limited to, photography, ceramics, watercolor, acrylics, wood working, folk art, oil painting, fiber

Taylor Norris at Fischman Gallery, Johnson City, TN

Artist Lisa Joerling in Mica Gallery preparing for spring

Necklace by Stacey Lane at Mica Gallery

Artists in Residence at Edgewood Cottage

art, and drawing. Art lovers of all interests and budgets are welcome to these free open studio events.

For a detailed schedule and sample artwork, go to artistsatedgewood.org or visit @ edgewood.cottage on Instagram. This Artistin-Residence program is sponsored by the Blowing Rock Historical Society. For more information or to join the Society, go to blowingrockhistoricalsociety.com

Discover Johnson County Center for the Arts

For lovers of art, music and history, plan a spring outing to downtown Mountain City, TN, approximately a half-hour drive from Boone, NC. Make your way to 127 College Street. Here, you’ll find the Johnson County Center for the Arts, a comprehensive art center serving the residents of Johnson County, TN, and surrounding communities and visitors to the area who are seeking authentic Appalachian artwork as well as meaningful events and enrichment experiences.

Behind the brick and glass façade is an expansive arts and crafts gallery with room for workshops and lectures, an area for musical performances, a coffee/pastry counter, and a walk-in makers’ space where anyone can enter and access a variety of free resources to create original artwork. When you leave the Center, take a walk along the sidewalks through town to discover a series of murals on the outer walls of many of the old buildings along “The Mural Mile”— these murals visually represent the town’s cultural heritage.

Check out the latest art installments and exhibitions, including new work by Cristy Dunn, the Center’s Executive Director, and Temple Reece, Assistant Director (both pictured above). Reece recently collaborated with Preserving a Picturesque

America to help with the upkeep of the Laurel Creek Trailhead in Johnson County, TN. Proceeds from her donated paintings went directly to the Laurel Creek project. Learn more about the important work of Preserving a Picturesque America at preservationthroughart.org. Visit jocoartcenter.org for the latest happenings at the Johnson County Center for the Arts.

It’s All About the Art Gallery Showcases World-renowned Artist

Ricardo Lowenberg

Over in Banner Elk, It’s All About the Art is getting ready for a special July exhibit of sculptures by celebrated Mexican artist Ricardo Lowenberg. Lowenberg paints both abstract and figurative works, and sculpts voluminous forms that explore the trajectory of emotions. “Both in the creative act of painting and in the evolution of the process whereby I create, I am constantly confronting the beauty and sublime essence of the human condition through my work,” the artist states. “Sculpting is a means of personal expression that allows me to react to established parameters of perfection and explore the beauty and grace of the human form more deeply. Every sculpture I create originates with a painting, and the sculpting of that painting brings it to life.”

Guided by the phantasms of the Mexican Muralists and the French Impressionists, Lowenberg creates allegories and stunning portraiture, resplendent with the ecstasies of both the human and natural world and bursting with color and energy. Lowenberg’s evocative paintings and sculptures are exhibited in some of the world’s finest galleries and private collections.

The sculptures of Lowenberg will be displayed during the month of July. It’s All About The Gallery is located at 163 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk. itsallabouttheart. net, 828-783-9233

Art Cellar Gallery

Announces Its “Summer Show” Lineup

Since opening its doors in June 1993 in Banner Elk, NC, The Art Cellar Gallery & Frame Shop has worked tirelessly towards one goal —“Fine Art For Everyone.” Every year, Art Cellar presents a series of shows highlighting some of the finest artists from the region and beyond.

This year’s series kicks off on Monday, May 13, featuring work from Norma Murphy and Ronan Kyle Peterson. The artwork of Murphy reflects the essence of femininity and a peaceful sense of belonging inside the memories of an imaginative Appalachian artist through a variety of mediums and styles. Ronan Kyle Peterson states, “With my ceramic vessels I hope to create a comic book interpretation of the natural world with a focus on the rocks and trees and their role in the perpetual organic comedy of growth and decay.” This first show in the series runs through June 8, with an opening event on Saturday, May 18, from 4-6 p.m.

Art by Gregory Smith and Lowell Hayes will be showcased June 10 through July 6, with an opening event on Saturday, June 15, 4-6 p.m. Painter Gregory Smith shares, “What has always inspired me are the physical properties of paint. Paint is fluid, plastic and has dimensionality. The properties of the medium are infinite in their application and ability to create illusion, mood, response and context.” Hayes is known for his bas relief construction paintings built with a variety of natural media. “For about 30 years I have been making work which celebrates the beauty of the forest, as a reaction to global warming, not about anyone’s culpability, but hoping to intensify our feelings about the Earth, which I call love.”

Ricardo Lowenberg at It's All About the Art Gallery

Cristy Dunn and Temple Reece Johnson County Center for the Arts

Upcoming Shows at Art Cellar Gallery

Two more summer shows will take place July – September. In addition to the gallery’s regular season exhibitions, they will host a pop-up series, with each pop-up announced via social media and email. Visit Artcellaronline.com to find out more about the summer shows and sign up to receive news and updates.

Treasures Await at the Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery

Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery represents regional painters, sculptors, and fine craft persons who want to take part in benefiting the children of Crossnore Communities for Children. The gallery specifically supports Crossnore’s Youth Independent Living program, which transitions students from foster care to successful independent living, and the Avery campus Student Work Program.

Some of the artists featured at Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery include Kim Abernethy, Daniel Ambrose, Stanley Andersen, Katie & Billy Bernstein, Andrea Knott Brewer, Tammy Brinkley, Bill Brown and Ray Byram. The show season begins in July, with Landscape Artist Kim Abernethy in the spotlight. Save the date for Abernethy’s show opening on July 18. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. crossnoregallery.org

Additional “arts and crafts” opportunities at the Crossnore Communities’ Avery campus include Crossnore Weavers. Crossnore Weavers was established to preserve the Appalachian art of hand-weaving, to give an economic opportunity to women, and to promote Crossnore Communities for Children through the sale of beautiful handwoven goods all over the world. Visit the Crossnore Weaving Room, or shop online at crossnore.org/crossnore-weavers/. When visiting the Crossnore campus, be sure to

step inside the E.H. Sloop Chapel and get a glimpse of the powerful fresco masterpiece, Suffer the Little Children, Benjamin F. Long, IV’s rendering of Mark 10:14, “Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not; for such is the kingdom of God.” Long is one of only four master fresco artists in the world. The Chapel is open for viewings daily from 8:30 a.m–5 p.m. The Art Gallery and Weaving Room are located at 205 Johnson Lane, Crossnore, NC, on the Crossnore Communities for Children Avery Campus. crossnore.org

Buckle Up and Hit the Trail: Blue Ridge Craft Trails

You are undeniably in a region rich in craft traditions and brimming with craft artists. Travel along the Blue Ridge Craft Trails to visit with artists in their studios, shop galleries full of local, handmade artwork, and discover scenic treasures and cultural gems along the way. The Blue Ridge Craft Trails organizers welcome new Trail sites regularly. There are now dozens in the CML region! Plan a weekend of art-related outings by following the Blue Ridge Craft Trails maps and trip itineraries, all of which can be found at blueridgeheritage.com/blueridge-craft-trails/. Pictured above, BE Artists Gallery in the Cultural Arts Center at the Historic Banner Elk School in downtown Banner Elk. BEartistsgallery.com

A Special Tribute to Artist Joe Miller

Last September, our High Country community lost a celebrated artist and allaround good human: Mr. Joseph Claude (Joe) (Joe Pops) (Cheap Joe) Miller. Miller’s life was always filled with creativity. While he initially set forth to become a taxidermist with dreams of becoming a museum conservator, he eventually settled in at UNC Chapel Hill’s School of Pharmacy. It was in

practice at Boone Drug and while moonlighting as an artist that he began a small, corner ‘shop’ he jokingly named ‘Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff.’ The name stuck, and Miller later left his pharmacy career to grow Cheap Joe’s into a force in the art materials world.

Joe Miller’s passion and dedication to the art world earned him numerous accolades and awards—his highest honors being the recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, American Watercolor Society Dolphin Medal, North Carolina Order of the Long Leaf Pine, and NWS Arts and Humanities Award for his contributions to his extremely broad community.

To honor Miller, contributions can be made to Brushes for Vincent, a charitable organization designed by Miller to give persons in distress healing through art. Brushes for Vincent provides free materials to assist artists in crisis, victims of illness or infirmity, and victims of natural disaster. The organization’s motto is “Please help us make sure the next Vincent Van Gogh is not left behind!” brushesforvincent.org

You can shop Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff online at cheapjoes.com, or visit the Outlet Store and Workshop Center in Boone. A variety of artist workshops are offered year-round, both in-person and online. “It is with honor and great respect that we carry forward this tremendous legacy,” shares the staff at Cheap Joe’s. (CML would like to thank the folks at Cheap Joe’s for their contributions to this tribute.)

BE Artists on the Blue Ridge Crafts Trail, Photo by Skip Sickler

Artist Joe Miller Courtesy of Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff

Pottery by Stanley Andersen at Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery

Here in the Appalachian Mountains, rowing is not generally regarded as one of the more popular competitive sports, but 2023’s The Boys in the Boat tells a beautiful true story that has a local connection. In addition, this is a film which will inspire viewers even if they don’t know one end of a racing shell from the other.

Set in 1936, as the Great Depression grips the nation, The Boys in the Boat follows the remarkable journey of the University of Washington’s Junior Varsity eight-man rowing team, a journey that leads from homelessness to the pivotal Berlin Olympics. The film, directed by George Clooney and based on the 2013 non-fiction book by Daniel James Brown, was written by High Country screenwriter Mark L. Smith, who makes his home in Valle Crucis and has penned several other major films, like The Revenant and Overlord.

Smith, who lived in Avery County as a child and eventually returned to the area with his own family, was recruited by Clooney to write the screenplay while they were working together on The Midnight Sky. While he had some familiarity with the sport of rowing, Smith did not know the incredible true story of The Boys in the Boat, but he quickly found the book to be “amazing, like a gift.” In fact, “it’s my mother’s favorite book ever.” His mother actually accompanied him to the film’s premiere. The process of adapting the book to screenplay was an enjoyable one for Smith, although fitting this phenomenal story into a film’s running time presented a challenge.

Time has been compressed for the film, since the events it portrays took place over longer than the single year shown, and the phenomenal boys of the Husky crew competed in many more than the handful of races depicted on screen; but these changes serve simply to streamline the story, much as the whale oil on the hull of their shell helps the team soar across the water. Overall, the story told by the film faithfully depicts the extraordinary experiences of ordinary young men struggling to find a purpose and discovering

The Boys in the Boat: Poetry, Sport, and History

By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

that purpose on the water, as they work to find the ideal rowing rhythm. In the process, they form a bond beyond the boat. Many viewers are doubtless familiar with the 1936 Olympics in part due to the phenomenal performance of the legendary Jesse Owens, who makes a brief appearance in the film. Yet, the inspirational story of eight rowers and one coxswain from Washington is a piece of history that is far less known.

Sharing that history is just one of the accomplishments of this lovely film. The Boys in the Boat is not merely an introduction to a past event, although the attention to historic details is both striking and so effortless that one often feels immersed in 1936. From dismal Depression-Era shantytowns to the chilling spectacle of the swastika-bedecked Olympics attended by Adolf Hitler himself, the past is depicted with honest precision. The boats, in particular, are stunning. In addition to the faithfully reproduced shells from an era smitten with the sport of crew, there are the exquisite wooden boats used by irascible coach Al Ulbrickson (Joel Edgerton) and assistant coach Tom Bolles (James Wolk) as they guide the team and chart their triumphs and trials with the click of a stopwatch.

Visually, the film is breathtaking. The dance of the boats, whether the team is practicing their strokes or pulling for all they are worth to win a race, is mesmerizing to watch, with the lighting often adding to the effect. The music, along with the rhythmic splashing of the oars, provides a perfect cadence even when coxswain Bobby Moch (Luke Slattery) is not beating out the pace he wants to bring his team flying across the finish.

The acting is also fantastic. Although the film largely focuses on Joe Rantz (Callum Turner), every member of the team is crucial, for, as an elderly Joe notes, “We were never eight. We were one.” That unity is also at play in the work of a stellar ensemble cast. While some of the teams, particularly in the Olympic scenes, were portrayed by competitive oarsmen, the actors themselves did a great deal of the row-

ing seen in the film, and they certainly pull their own weight in creating the illusion that they are, in fact, this remarkable team. Smith, until working on this project, was unaware of just how physically demanding the sport is; he also notes the challenges of filming to capture shots of perfectly synchronized strokes as well as recording how the rigors of rowing training made the actors appear more fit over the course of the film.

One of the film’s best features is its pace. There are great moments of humor and some profound statements, such as Coach Ulbrickson‘s observation that “Rowing is more poetry than sport.” However, it never forgets that it’s “all about the boat,” delivering a narrative that moves seamlessly through the lives of the coaches and boys while staying anchored around the races that define their lives and shape their futures. Like the Husky Clipper itself, the film slows down and speeds up just when and where it should, so that even those viewers who already know the outcome of each race will be captivated, as breathless with anticipation as the family, friends, and spectators listening to those races on the radio or watching them from the stands or special observation railcars. The unity of a nation watching, spellbound, and cheering together for one team is one of the beautiful aspects of this story, an aspect which Smith feels is one reason he and Clooney were both so drawn to it. That unity reminds viewers that even in times as dismal as the Great Depression, a country can unite behind something positive and cheer for one team of nine boys in a boat.

The Boys in the Boat is available to rent or buy from several streaming services. It is rated PG-13, primarily because of the depiction of “historical smoking,” and some well-placed swears, but it is appropriate for most audiences. Whether acquainted with the sport of crew or not, those viewers will enjoy getting to know these boys and those who helped them as they rowed their way into history.

Screenwriter Mark L Smith at the Premiere of Boys in the Boat

2024 Season

Hayes Auditorium, Broyhill Theatre

All performances begin at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

lmc.edu/forum

Shake Baby Shake

June 17

Rhinestone Cowgirls

June 24

Symphony of the Mountains

July 1

Believe–A Tribute to Cher

July 8

The Modern Gentlemen

July 15

7 Bridges–Ultimate EAGLES Experience

July 22

The Sounds of Soul

July 29

Broadway to the Big Screen with Jenene Caramielo

August 5

For season ticket information, call 828.898.8748 or email forum@lmc.edu.

Post Office Box 649

Banner Elk, NC 28604

PHOTO BY TODD BUSH

June 24, 25, 26

Claire & Jennifer Tyler

With sweaters for every occasion. This was our first trunk show.

July 15, 16

ALGO of Switzerland

Nicholas will be here for just two days with fall merchandise

July 18, 19, 20

Zonnie Sheik

37 years with BJ’s. Wow.

July 25, 26, 27

Peter Ciesla

First time and beautiful clothes. Some one of a kind.

August 7, 8, 9, 10

Daniella Ortiz

Exquisite handbags in every color. As usual, she always has new styles.

RESORTWEAR

2024 Trunk Shows

August 21, 22, 23,24

Edward Guski

A little bit of everything. Special dresses.

August 29, 30, 31

Zonnie Sheik will return if you missed her in July.

September 16, 17, 18, 19

Claire & Jennifer Tyler

For fall. If you missed them in June.

September 25, 26, 27, 28

ALGO of Switzerland

Will return this time with Spring. Our last show of the season. Wonderful.

Located at 145 Main St, Banner Elk for 46 years. 828.898.4229

Mary Tobias Miller Interior Design

“Curating a Luxury Lifestyle ” Interior Design, Home Furnishings Gifts and Accessories

2024 HOME GAME SCHEDULE

MAY

Thursday 23 vs Uwarrie (Exhibition game)

Sunday 26 vs Catawba Valley (Exhibition game)

Thursday 30 vs Highpoint-Thomasville

JUNE

Saturday 1 vs Martinsville (Superhero Night)

Monday 3 vs Highpoint- Thomasville

Wednesday 5 vs Carolina Disco Turkeys

Friday 7 vs Forest City (Double Header)

Sunday 9 vs Asheboro (80’s Night)

Monday 10 vs Forest City

Thursday13 vs Highpoint- Thomasville

Saturday 15 vs Asheboro

Sunday 16 vs Macon (Little League Night)

Friday 21 vs Forest City

Sunday 23 vs Lexington County

Tuesday 25 vs Kingsman Baseball (Exhibition Game)

Saturday 29 vs Macon (Cobra Kai Night)

JULY

Tuesday 2 vs Forest City

Thursday 4 vs Martinsville (4th of July Celebration)

Wednesday 10 vs Forest City (App State Night)

Friday 12 vs Asheboro

Saturday 13 vs Martinsville

Sunday 14 vs Catawba Valley (Exhibition game) + (Alumni Night)

Friday 19 vs Asheboro

Saturday 20 vs Highpoint- Thomasville

Monday 22 vs Catawba Valley (Exhibition game)

Wednesday 24 vs Highpoint- Thomasville

Friday 26 vs Highpoint- Thomasville (Hawaiian Night)

Grandfather Mountain’s Amazing Animals

Black bears have been known to run as fast as 30 miles per hour! They’re also good swimmers and excellent tree climbers. But did you know that bears can be very artistic, too?

You’ll find some the best examples of black bear artwork—painted by the resident bears themselves—at Grandfather Mountain, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. Here, you can also enjoy “masterpieces” by river otters, cougars, elk, bald eagles and even snakes! But these unique animal paintings are about more than art—they present opportunities to learn about the various species of animals that reside in Grandfather Mountain’s Wildlife Habitats, and also provide a way to support all animals in the park’s care.

Face-to-Face with Wildlife

A visit to Grandfather Mountain (admission fee required) gives you access to the Wildlife Habitats, where you can observe the resident animals and learn more about their natural history. “Keeper Talks” take place daily, every half hour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., which allow you to better understand the animals as they interact, play, feed and nap. You’ll find out how each animal came to live at Grandfather Mountain—some were orphaned, others were injured or in situations in which they could no longer survive in the wild.

All of the environmental habitats at Grandfather Mountain emulate the animals’ natural habitats, so when observing animals up close at the park’s viewing areas, it’s easy to imagine what it would be like to come faceto-face with them in the wild.

By Tamara S. Randolph

While exploring each habitat, you might catch the otters performing acrobatic maneuvers—darting through the water, floating on their backs, and constantly playing, with each other and anything they can turn into a toy, such as rocks. You may see the sibling cougars, Logan and Trinity, snuggle up together and groom one another. On occasion, two elk may engage in a playful sparring match, or you might see these antlered giants chomping on a favorite food, such as persimmons. And the ever-fascinating black bears can sometimes be spotted lounging in the sun, climbing trees, playing in the pond and hanging out with other bears.

“Adopting” Your Favorite Animal

Once you get to know the animals, you’ll see why they’re so remarkable. You might even want to adopt one of them! Grandfather Mountain recently revamped its Adopt-an-Animal Program, with gift-level revisions that include certificates of adoption, information on the animals, photos, AND the addition of the animal artwork mentioned above—painted by the animals’ own paws.

To create these exceptional paintings, habitat staff members lead each animal artist through a painting “enrichment” (enrichments are something given to break up an animal’s day). During the painting enrichment, the animal walks through non-toxic paint and then along sheets of paper inside of their enclosure. The end result is a one-of-a-kind, frameable work of art. You’ll find a selection of animal paintings on display at the gift shop inside the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery,

adjacent to the Wildlife Habitats; you’ll also find more information on the various adoption packages.

“The changes made to our Adopt-an-Animal Program provide a more personal touch for adopters, as they receive more items related specifically to the individual animal that they have chosen to symbolically adopt,” said Margaret Thiele, vice president of development for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.

Along with receiving artwork and other materials as part of your Adopt-an-Animal package, you’ll feel great knowing that you’ve contributed directly to improving the lives of the many animals in Grandfather’s Wildlife Habitats. Funds from the program have gone to upgrading the habitats and purchasing treats, toys and other enrichments to give the animals something fun and different to liven up their day. Additionally, the program offers a personal connection between adopters and their specific resident animal.

“Some guests come back to visit their animal each year and form a loving relationship with them,” said Thiele. “An adopted animal becomes an ambassador for its species as it helps educate people about the animal and may even inspire them to want to protect the natural world.”

For more information on the Adopt-an-Animal Program and the various adoption levels, visit grandfather.com/adopt.

Animal photos courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Griffin Photo by Skip Sickler

Nova

Watson Photo by Monty Combs

Would You Like to Be a Birder?

Do you love birds? Do you like birds? Are you vaguely intrigued by the idea of birds?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you could be a birder . . .

Birding is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the country. There are more birders in the U.S. than pickleball players! The best thing about being a birder is that there is no right or wrong way to do it. I know lots of birders who love watching the birds at their backyard feeder, but have no interest in traveling the world in search of birds. I know lots of other birders who love exploring new countries and traveling just to find birds they’ve never seen before. There are even more birders that fall somewhere in between.

There are a lot of benefits to being a birder:

You get to spend time outdoors, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Birding also helps you pay more attention to the many wonders that can be found in nature. While looking for birds you will come across beautiful wildflowers, really cool mushrooms, amazing trees, and lots of non-feathered wildlife. Looking for birds helps you notice and appreciate the rest of nature as well.

Birding can be a very social activity. There are several Audubon Society Chapters here in the mountains that offer free bird walks open to any and everybody. I lead a weekly bird walk at Valle Crucis Community Park every Wednesday for the local High Country Audu-

By Paul Laurent

bon Society. We have a group of local birders who usually show up, as well as people visiting from out of town, and often people who are just interested in seeing what bird watching is like. The walk is half birdwatching and half socializing. Birding can also be a very solitary activity if you’d prefer.

Birds are quite literally everywhere, from the arctic to the tropics to the middle of a big city. A bird has even been spotted diving more than 1,850 feet underwater (an Emperor Penguin). Since birds are everywhere, you can watch birds anywhere. A business trip to a different city could be a great chance to see some really cool new birds after the meetings wrap up, and a vacation can be made even better by looking for all the different birds in the place you’re visiting.

Getting into birding is easy, you just need two things:

A pair of binoculars - Many birds are small and like to hang out in the tops of very tall trees. The good news is that binoculars are way better now than they were 20 years ago. You can get a darn good pair of binoculars for under $200. I recommend getting a pair of 8x42s. The “8” refers to the zoom—the bird is eight times larger than to the naked eye. The “42” refers to the diameter of the front lens, which controls the amount of light the binoculars let in and allows you to see better detail and color. 8x42 is a great balance, with good zoom, while also being lightweight and having a wide field of view.

A good bird book - There are a lot of great field guides for our area. Some just cover the common birds of the Carolinas, and some are

organized by color rather than family. The drawback is that these books generally won’t show all of the different plumage variations of a species—males, females, and juveniles can often look very different—and less common birds are frequently omitted.

Your best bet may be what’s called a ‘taxonomic field guide.’ These books will have every bird that occurs in eastern North America, and include different plumages for males, females, and juveniles, as well as a detailed range map to show where each species is likely to be found. I personally love the Sibley Birds East guide, but Kauffman, Peterson, and Nat Geo also have great field guides available. You can stop by your local library or go to a few local bird walks to take a look at the different field guides that people are using and then decide which works best for you.

Ok, I have my binoculars and a bird book. I spotted a cool bird at my local park… Now what?

First, read the bird book before you go out. It can take a little while, but most of the pages are pictures. Study the types of birds—wading birds, hawks, sandpipers, waterfowl, songbirds, woodpeckers, etc. Bird ID is a process of elimination, so knowing what a bird isn’t can be very helpful.

When I teach Birding 101 classes, I say the first question to ask yourself is “Is it a duck?” If it is a duck, look for distinctive colors on its head and body and go through the duck section of the bird book looking for a match. If it isn’t a duck, then what type of bird is it?

Continued on next page

BIRDING

Magnolia Warbler

Goldfinch

Eastern Kingbird

Photos by Paul and Amanda Laurent

Birdwatching at Valle Crucis Park

Photo by Tamara Randolph

BIRDING: Continued from previous page

GABRIEL OFIESH

July 25 through July 28

Thursday 1-5, Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 1-4

October 3 through October 5

Thursday 1-5, Friday 10-5

Saturday 10-5

Come in and see all of our wonderful holiday gift offerings and unique furnishings! Treat all your senses with special items throughout the store! Once you enter, you feel like you never left home.

If you can narrow it down to a particular family of birds, your search becomes much easier. The Sibley Birds East guide has 423 pages of birds. The section on woodpeckers is only nine pages. Next look at range maps. Each bird has a map showing where it is likely to be found in different times of the year, color coded into breeding, wintering, migration, and ‘accidental’—which means the bird is very lost and shouldn’t be there, but shows up occasionally. Maps should let you eliminate quite a few of the potential birds because they don’t live where you are. Finally you look at field marks: distinctive colors, patterns, and even behaviors that could tell you what bird you’re looking at. For more confusing birds like sparrows, the markings on the face and chest are particularly helpful. Each bird will also have a habitat description, which can further help you narrow your options. A bird that lives in meadows is unlikely to be found deep in a forest.

If you still can’t figure out what your mystery bird is, you can go online! There are several Facebook pages devoted to bird identification, and if you connect with your local Audubon Society Chapter or bird club you can email them if you’re perplexed. Bird identification can be complicated and challenging, and we have all been stumped by birds on many occasions.

There’s an App for that!

We now have a remarkable variety of apps for birding, such as eBird. This free app lets you create an account and record all the birds you see when you are out birding. It then compiles this information into a worldwide database for bird research into population changes, migratory routes, and lots more. eBird also lets you track your own personal ‘life list’ of birds you’ve seen, and you can search your area to find good birding spots and even search for reports of rare birds that you hope to see. Merlin, another free app, has a remarkable sound ID feature that identifies birds by their songs.

Get Started!

Birds are incredible creatures—the descendants of dinosaurs that hang out in your backyard and visit your feeders. Many of them travel thousands of miles each year, following ancient migration routes that we still don’t fully comprehend. Being able to marvel at their beauty and witness their incredible journeys is a truly amazing thing.

Spring Cleaning

By Andrew Corpening

Now that spring is here many people will be thinking about Spring Cleaning their homes and property. But it is also a good time to Spring Clean your fishing equipment.

The traditional opening of trout season is the spring so you need to be ready. The maintenance you do now will not only make your equipment last longer but it will also make you more successful on the stream.

Your fly line is the first item that needs to be checked. Inspect your line for cracks or wear. If the line is badly cracked or even abraded, it is probably time to replace it. If it doesn’t look too bad, a good cleaning will likely be enough to get you through the season. A clean, reconditioned line will cast and float better.

There are numerous products on the market that clean and recondition the line. Using these products is the easiest and most convenient method. You can try to clean your line in a bathtub with a little dish detergent but you may have to also use a commercial conditioner to make it slick again. Products designed to clean and lubricate the line combine all the steps into one easy procedure and are readily available at one of our local fly fishing outfitters.

Your leaders and tippet should also be checked. It is obvious when you need a new leader but age can also be a concern. Most manufacturers are now putting expiration dates on leaders and tippet. This does not mean that you should throw away all your leaders and tippets if they are out of date. Leaders and tippets are especially vulnerable to high heat or UV rays; if your leaders and tippet are not subject to these factors, replacement may not be necessary.

If you had a wet pant leg the last time you fished, you have a leak in your waders. Now is the time to patch it. A cut or a tear should be easy to find but a pinhole leak is a bit harder. If you use the stocking foot type of waders or

hippers, the best way to find a pinhole leak is to turn them inside out and fill them with water. When you see the water coming out you have found the leak and can circle it with a pen. After turning them right side out again you can patch the hole once the waders dry. Consult with a local fly shop to find the best patching method—they can also fit you with the perfect pair of new waders if yours are “on their last leg.”

This time of year is also a good time to clean out some of your fly boxes. Every fly fisher is carrying around flies that haven’t been used in years. It is a fly fisher’s nature to buy flies that look good and give them a try. Logically, if the fly does not produce, you would take it out of your box—but most fly fishers don’t, and tend to carry them forever.

Where to Fish?

With your equipment in good order you are ready for fishing, and spring is a great time to fish. As the water warms up, the insects that the trout feed on are getting more plentiful and the trout will get more active. Also, the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) started stocking the Delayed Harvest and Hatchery Supported waters in March. Keep in mind that the Delayed Harvest waters are single hook, catch and release only, from October 1 to the first Saturday in June. If you want to keep trout, a good Hatchery Supported stream is the Middle Fork of the New River between Blowing Rock and Boone. This stream, which flows from the dam at Chetola Resort to the South Fork of the New River, is very accessible since it follows Hwy. 321 for much of its length.

For the catch and release fly fisher, two good choices are the Delayed Harvest segments of the Watauga River. The first stretch flows from the State Road 1114 (Dewitt Barnett Rd.) bridge to Valle Crucis Community Park, lower boundary. The second segment is

from the State Road 1103 bridge to the confluence with Laurel Creek.

Another good possibility for the catch and release fly fisher is the Elk River that runs through Lees-McRae College property. You can fly fish from the dam on the Mill Pond in Banner Elk down to Elk River Club property. Keep in mind that this is a fly fishing ONLY stream. It is easily accessible since a maintenance road follows the river. Don’t, however, drive down the road since there is a gate that can be closed and locked at any time. For a complete list of the streams and their regulations, go to the NCWRC’s website at ncwildlife. org.

Fly Tips

During the early part of the season nymphs work best since 90 percent of the trout’s diet consists of underwater insects. You cannot go wrong using Copper Johns, beadhead pheasant tails, and Prince Nymphs. As the water temperature rises with the progression of spring, streamers will work well, especially on larger trout. With the warmer temperatures the trout get more active and will chase after streamers fished with a darting action.

Dry flies will work better and better as the spring temperatures warm up. Hatching insects will change from small dark flies during the early spring to larger light colored flies in late spring and early summer. If you see trout feeding when you arrive at the river, take a moment to try to see the insect. If you can determine its color and size, try to match the hatch. If you see feeding but no insects, try using a parachute fly like the Adams or Cahill.

Now that you have your fishing equipment ready, know where to fish, and what flies to use, let’s go fishing! After all, you can always Spring Clean your house tomorrow.

...notes from the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Learn more and plan your visit at www.grandfather.com.

Spring Notes from Grandfather Mountain

This spring make the most out of your visit to Grandfather Mountain by tapping into the park’s robust schedule of daily programs and special events. Learn more and plan your visit at www.grandfather.com

ADD VALUE TO YOUR GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN VISIT

Daily programs led by park educators and animal habitat curators are included in park admission and run April through October.

A TIP TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE:

Make sure you plan ahead, check the schedule online and fit some of the mountain’s Daily Programs into your visit. A few program examples:

During  Keeper Talks, guests can talk with park educators about the habitat animals—black bears, cougars, river otters, bald eagles and elk—and watch them receive an enrichment. Enrichments are special treats, new toys or unfamiliar scents designed to break up the animals’ routines and help keep them active and intellectually stimulated. Keeper Talks run between 10 and 15 minutes and are held daily, every half hour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., April through October, in the environmental wildlife habitats area.

The  Community Science Weather program spotlights Grandfather Mountain’s weather, known as some of the most extreme in the Southeast. Through this program, guests can help staff record data that is then passed on to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This 10-minute program is held daily at 11 a.m. at Grandfather’s Pollinator Garden, behind the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery.

During Grandfather’s  Junior Naturalist program, park educators help younger guests (ages 5 to 10) use scientific tools to make observations about natural phenomena. These 30-minute programs

take place at the Pollinator Garden and are held at 11:30 a.m. on weekends April 1 to May 26, daily May 27 to Aug. 18 and weekends Aug. 24 to Nov. 3.

Animal Encounters invite guests to come face-to-face with some of the mountain’s off-display educational animal ambassadors, such as opossums and snakes, while a park educator answers questions about that particular animal. Encounters last about 30 minutes and are held weekends at 2 p.m. at the Williams Outdoor Learning Space, located next to the Wilson Center.

To learn more about these Grandfather Mountain daily programs and others, visit www.grandfather.com/daily-programs.

GRANDFATHER’S GROWING CONSERVATION CAMPUS

Opened at the end of June 2022, the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery nearly doubles the size of Grandfather Mountain’s former Nature Museum with 10,000 square feet of education space, including state-of-the-art museum exhibits, three classrooms, an ADA-accessible theater and expanded capacity for hosting conferences and community events.

New exhibits include a 3D interactive map of the mountain that showcases Grandfather’s ecology and history; flora and fauna walls; and other exhibits focusing on the mountain’s natural history, weather and geology.

The Wilson Center is part of a larger planned Conservation Campus. Outside the building, guests can enjoy a new botanical garden filled with native plantings. And, last summer, the Williams Outdoor Learning Space was unveiled, featuring an amphitheater with terraced seating and a pavilion built around the existing natural landscape adjacent to the Wilson Center. It is an ideal place for special events, naturalist presentations or a picnic.

To learn more, visit www.grandfather.com/wilson-center.

Spring at Cliffside Overlook Spring at Half Moon Overlook Spring, Photo by Skip Sickler

SPRING EVENTS AT GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

Mark your calendars for these fun events that help you explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain:

May 25 – June 2 | Rhododendron Ramble

A short, guided daily stroll at 1 p.m. that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms—their history, attributes and the roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walk takes approximately 20 minutes and is fit for all ages. Included in admission.

June 7 - 9 | Nature Photography Weekend

This popular shutterbug weekend includes presentations from top nature photographers, hands-on breakout sessions, a friendly contest and the rare opportunity to photograph the mountain’s spectacular scenery and native animals before and after regular business hours. This year’s speakers include Andre Daugherty, Leslie Restivo, Michele Sons and Luke Sutton. Additional cost. Tickets go on sale online April 15.

June 12 | Animal Birthday Party

Help us celebrate the birthdays of our resident animals with games, contests, crafts and surprises! Millie the Bear will make special appearances throughout the day. Included in admission.

June 14 | Grandfather by Night: Adventurous Edition

Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own personal guides. You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a stunning Grandfather sunset and experience the mountain as never before! Additional cost. Tickets go on sale May 1.

New in 2024, Grandfather is offering two versions of Grandfather by Night—an adventurous version and a less-adventurous version. The adventurous version will include a short optional hike after sunset to discuss and look for the creatures that are more active at night. The

group will explore the Spruce-fir forests from top to bottom in search of salamanders, owls, flying squirrels, fireflies and any other creatures they might come across.

The less-adventurous version of Grandfather by Night includes an outdoor interpretive program and flora, fauna, folklore and other topics.

To see the full schedule of Grandfather by Night opportunities June through September, visitwww.grandfather.com/grandfather-by-night.

BLOOMS

Spring and the leaves starting to bud on trees are always a welcome sight after winter at Grandfather. Dutchman’s breeches, spring beauties, trout lilies, squirrel corn and chickweed are just some of the very first wildflowers of the spring.

The months of May and June see the beloved rhododendrons, azaleas and mountain laurel make their return, among others. A treat in late April and May, pink-shell azalea can be found growing across the park. This subspecies of the rhododendron family, considered vulnerable globally, has delicate pink blooms.

Visitors hoping to take in the sights, and scents, of the bountiful blooms on the mountain can plan ahead by referencing Grandfather’s Wildflower Bloom Calendar at www.grandfather.com/wildflowerscalendar.

Daily Program – Keeper Talk

Grandfather by Night, Photo by Leslie Restivo

Grandfather Mountain Elk, Photo by Leslie Restivo

Photo Weekend, Photo by Leslie Restivo

Rhodo Ramble

Photos courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Dine | Shop | Play | Stay

The Village of Banner Elk – your premier destination for dining, entertainment, lodging, and live events in the heart of Banner Elk, North Carolina!

Discover a diverse array of culinary delights at our renowned restaurants, where savory flavors and warm hospitality await.

Immerse yourself in entertainment galore as you explore our bustling plaza, where live music concerts, cultural festivals, and family-friendly events add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Planning an extended stay? Rest easy in our comfortable and conveniently located lodging options.

chef’s table

Trail Reports Spring 2024

By CML Staff

TRAIL REPORTS

Does your family enjoy hiking, biking, paddling and exploring our region of the world? Follow our “Trail Reports” in each issue for some of the latest developments on trails and public lands, and to learn about opportunities throughout the area.

May Hiking on Beech Mountain

If hiking is to your liking, then Beech Mountain is your paradise. With the gorgeous mile-high Emerald Outback trail park and other maintained trails, exploring the mountain is a thrilling activity for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Winding through the woods, reaching a waterfall, stepping over the mossy stones by the creek, and catching a glimpse of a family of deer—spring is the perfect season to be on Beech, where you can hike more than 27 miles of trails.

In May, Beech is celebrating hiking all month long, with guided hikes offered on May 6, May 13, and May 30. Head up to the Beech Mountain Visitor Center at 403-A Beech Mountain Parkway—here you’ll find information on these guided hikes, plus free hiking maps, hiking stickers and other giveaways as part of Beech Mountain’s May hiking event. Interested in being a trail guide on Beech Mountain and learning more about the mountain’s flora and fauna? Beech Mountain Parks & Rec department is seeking volunteers to become certified trail guides to assist in facilitating guided hikes on the mountain. Learn more at beechrecreation.recdesk.com | beechmtn.com

Appalachian Trail Days Festival in Damascus, VA

Damascus, Virginia, is known by many as “Trail Town USA” because of the renowned trails that intersect within town limits, including the Virginia Creeper Trail, Appalachian Trail (AT), Iron Mountain Trail, Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route, TransAmerica Bicycle Trail / Route 76, TransVirginia Bike Route, and The Crooked Road.

One of the most popular trails is the Appalachian Trail, and the town of Damascus celebrates the AT every spring. The Appalachian Trail Days Festival—being held this year on May 17-19—is the biggest event of the year in Damascus and the world’s largest celebration of the Appalachian Trail and hiker culture! Each year in May, the town swells to an estimated 25,000 people for the festival. You can expect a grand reunion of thru-hikers past and present, over a hundred vendors of handmade goods and some of the best outdoor gear in the industry, a packed schedule of live music and events, and a large crowd of trail supporters and hiking enthusiasts. Trail Days is always the weekend after Mother’s Day. The Town-wide Yard Sale, another popular event in Damascus, is always the weekend before Trail Days. Trail Days is free to attend, with a fee for overnight camping at Tent City. visitdamascus.org/traildays.html

Get to Know the North Carolina Trails Program

From Manteo to Murphy, North Carolina has so many beautiful trails for everyone to enjoy. The North Carolina Trails Program oversees the creation and maintenance of this wide system of trails that we have in our state, offering regional connectivity and public access. The Program originated in 1973 with the North Carolina Trails System Act and is dedicated to helping citizens, organizations and agencies plan, develop, and manage all types of trails ranging from greenways and trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding to paddle trails and off-road vehicle trails.

In the CML area, you’ll find many trails that are affiliated with the NC Trails Program, including the Fonta Flora State Trail (FFST), a hiking and biking trail from Asheville to Morganton, with a loop around Lake James and connection to Overmountain Victory State Trail and Mountains-to-Sea Trail; The Northern Peaks State Trail, a 40-mile hiking trail (still under development) connecting Boone, Elk Knob State Park and Mount Jefferson State Natural Area in Ashe County; and the Yadkin River State Trail, a 163-mile paddle trail across nine counties, from W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in Wilkesboro to Morrow Mountain State Park.

The North Carolina Trails Program is managed by the Division of Parks and Recreation, a division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Learn more at trails.nc.gov

Hiking on Beech Mountain Appalachian Trail Days Festival in Damascus, VA

Find Your Trail to Fun in Elkin, NC

The NC Trail Days (NCTrailDays.com) festival on May 30 through June 2 celebrates the great outdoors in Elkin, NC. This small town located on the Yadkin River in the Blue Ridge foothills of the Yadkin Valley abounds with outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, climbing, running and paddling. This annual festival coincides with National Trails Day, the first Saturday in June.

The festival’s schedule of events typically includes specialty hikes to waterfalls, abandoned distilleries, and local wineries; the Yadkin River Trail Run 5k/10k; art and history walks through downtown Elkin; and guided local hikes on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, Overmountain Victory Trail, and at Stone Mountain State Park. Daily paddling events take place on the Yadkin River, along with a downtown block party, live music in the evenings and much more.

NC Trail Days is a great opportunity to experience the many outdoor adventure options that make Elkin a true trails town, AND meet new friends who also enjoy the outdoors! For more details about these events, including lodging options in and around Elkin, go to ExploreElkin.com and NCTrailDays.com.

NCTrailDaysFestivalinElkinNC

Foothills Conservancy News

Foothills Conservancy of NC recently announced that they have purchased and permanently protected the 326-acre parcel of land in Blowing Rock, NC, which contains the headwaters of the Johns River and is part of an iconic view seen from The Blowing Rock attraction, U.S. 321 and other locations within the town limits of Blowing Rock.

The property is positioned on the Blue Ridge escarpment, partially located in both the Blowing Rock and Globe communities of Caldwell County, and is part of the viewshed corridor of the sweeping and magnificent mountainous panorama. The Johns River, a major tributary of the Catawba River, begins on the property, and the land harbors a number of significant natural communities and threatened plant and animal species documented by the NC Natural Heritage Program. foothillsconservancy.org

Back in 2020, Foothills Conservancy purchased 652 acres near Morganton, NC, with funding from private donors, foundations and small businesses. Last fall, Oak Hill Community Park and Forest opened to the public on this land as a free resource for the citizens of Burke County, NC, and beyond. The park provides regional opportunities for outdoor recreation, nature-based education, forest restoration and stewardship, archeological and historical exploration, and agriculture. foothillsconservancy.org/oakhillpark

Trash Trout Installed in Big Horse Creek in Lansing, NC

In February, the New River Conservancy (NRC) partnered with Greater Lansing Area Development (GLAD), Keep Ashe Beautiful, and Asheville GreenWorks, to install the first Trash Trout™ in Ashe County in Big Horse Creek, a tributary of the North Fork of the New River located in Lansing, NC.

Trash Trouts™ are waterway litter traps created by Asheville GreenWorks that capture and hold stormwater litter, making river cleanup faster and more efficient, and protecting downstream waterways. Utilizing the flow of the waterway, flotation and a mesh gate, the device is able to seize floating garbage and contain it until it’s ready to be cleaned out. Trash Trouts™ do not contain a top or bottom to allow aquatic creatures to pass through without harm. The trap rises and falls with the water levels and is built to withstand average flooding events.

The Big Horse Creek Trash Trout™ makes it the fifth device to be installed in the New River Watershed. The first was installed in June 2021 by MountainTrue’s Watauga Riverkeeper in partnership with the Town of Boone in Winkler’s Creek, a direct tributary of the South Fork of the New River. newriverconservancy. org, mountaintrue.org, ashevillegreenworks. org, keepashebeautiful.org, glad-nc.org

Appalachian Trail Days Festival in Damascus, VA

Oak Hill Community Park and Forest

Getting the Trash Trout™ ready for installation in Big Horse Creek

Johns River Headwaters, Blowing Rock, NC

Photo courtesy of Foothills Conservancy

North Carolina State Trails

We’re Mountain Community Bank for a reason. We are committed to this beautiful place we call home by providing you with personal and business banking services that make everyday life a bit easier. Just another reason we’re here to help you focus on the happy moments.

Nature Notes: Enjoy Spring on the Parkway

By Rita Larkin

The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, and spring is ready to showcase enchanting outdoor adventures on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you head north or south on the scenic route, you’ll find great destinations, but here we are sharing just a few High Country favorites to kick off a season of exploration.

For the Bird(ers)

Grab your binoculars and roam the fields and forests of Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, milepost 294, to spot a great variety of birds, including waterfowl and songbirds at Bass and Trout lakes during their spring migration. In days gone by, Bertha Cone and her sisters also enjoyed birding on the 3,500-acre estate, which is now listed on the North Carolina Birding Trail. Each new season brings visits from new flighted friends, including Blue-headed Vireos, Scarlet Tanagers, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and Belted Kingfishers.

This spring, the estate will become even more welcoming to birders as the Bass Lake Loop Trail, a gravel path just short of a mile, will undergo improvements to become more accessible for those with disabilities thanks to support from Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation donors.  KaBloom!

Autumn may receive overwhelming accolades for painting the mountains with golden hues, but spring on the Parkway is arguably just as eye-popping with its vibrant native blooms. Pick any trail in the national park to find wildflowers that wow, from the sunny buttercup to purple crested dwarf iris to the flame red fire pink. Just remember to leave the blooms behind so as not to diminish the flower show for others or harm a rare plant. However, you can share your discoveries with scientists from around the globe by taking photographs and uploading the images to iNaturalist.org

Back in the Saddle

Riding the carriage trails on horseback in the crisp mountain air is an exhilarating way to embrace spring at the Cone estate. Riders can load and unload horses at the pull-offs on U.S. 221 near Bass Lake or at the Trout Lake parking area. For a custom guided experience on the carriage trails, book a ride with Tim Vines of VX3 Trail Rides (vx3trailrides.com).

Lake Life

Make Julian Price Park and its namesake lake a spring getaway. Opening in April, this recreation area’s campground is the first to welcome overnight guests on the Parkway each year. You can cast a line from the shore or explore the 47-acre lake by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard with a vessel from Price Lake Boat Rentals, milepost 297. To stretch your legs, trek the lake’s loop trail or a section of the nearby Mountains-to-Sea or Tanawha trails.

The Denim Ball

Be sure to mark your calendar for The Denim Ball on Thursday, September 5. The seventh annual fundraiser for Moses H. Cone Memorial Park will be hosted by Camp Yonahnoka at Linville Golf Club. For more information and the ticket release date, visit BRPFoundation.org.

Buttercup, Blue Ridge Parkway NPS

Denim Ball, photo by Lonnie Webster

Crested Dwarf Iris, Blue Ridge Parkway NPS

Left: Grandfather Mountain from Price Lake, photo by Andy Massengill

Horseback Riding, photo by Vicki Dameron

Dance competition, athletic competition, piping and drumming, sheep herding, music in the Groves on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, concerts Friday and Saturday nights, Worship Service and Parade of Tartans on Sunday, and children’s activities each day. www.gmhg.org GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN HIGHLANDERS 50TH ANNIVERSARY!

Zap Endurance:

Supporting Elite Runners and the Greater High Country Community

By Karen Rieley

Giving back to the community is fundamental to the mission of the Zap Endurance Foundation, a nonprofit training center for post-collegiate, Olympic hopeful distance runners. Operating in Blowing Rock, NC, ZAP was founded in 2001 by Andy Palmer and his wife, Franziska (Zika) Rea, to give back to the sport of distance running, a sport that played a significant role in both their lives.

By 1999 the couple decided to make the idea of ZAP a reality and they began to look around the country for a place to do it. On their way back from Maine that summer a friend suggested they check out the towns of Boone and Blowing Rock nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. After one run at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and a day checking out the towns, they fell in love with the area. The park has 25+ miles of carriage roads over hilly terrain at a moderate altitude of 3,500-4,000 feet and the small towns offered the perfect environment for distance runners who don’t have the time nor energy for a lot of distractions.

Over the next year they bought 45+ acres in a valley just outside of Blowing Rock and began construction on the ZAP Facility. They created the ZAP Endurance Foundation and set a busy schedule of

Adult Running Camps. Construction was completed in the winter of 2001-2002 and Andy and Zika were working hard to open their doors that summer.

When Andy suddenly died in February 2002 at the age of 48 from a heart attack while on a run, Zika’s life was shattered, but she refused to let their dream go. Zap Endurance opened and its first athlete arrived in May of that year.

Zap Endurance’s commitment to giving back extends beyond its own nonprofit, however. Since 2015, Zap Endurance has committed funds to the Blue Ridge Conservancy to fully fund the director’s position for the Middle Fork Greenway.

“We decided to fund the position because of what we have learned from running our own nonprofit,” Rea said. “People love the results of nonprofits but often forget or don’t realize there are thousands of hours of work being invested to accomplish those results. The Middle Fork Greenway encompasses all of our passions. We love the outdoors, and though we have lots of hiking trails, I believe the community needs more opportunities for biking and running safely,” she added.

“The North Carolina High Country is one of the most unique spots in the country,” Rea continued. “The Middle

Fork Greenway is a safe option for both locals and tourists to exercise. Greenways have become healthy centers for recreation across the country, and this area will benefit greatly from this one.”

To learn more about Zap Endurance, including how to donate to their Foundation, visit zapendurance.com

Congratulations to the Zap Endurance athletes for their many recent successes! In The Olympic Marathon Trials that took place in Orlando, FL, in February, the ZAP Endurance team was represented by 6 athletes, including Josh Izewski who had an 8th place finish! At “The Ten,” a track meet in Los Angeles set up for Olympic and Olympic Trials qualifying times, ZAP Endurance Team members Amanda Vestri and Ryan Ford had record setting finishes. Meanwhile, ZAP runner Eric van der Els is focused on qualifying for the 5,000m and the 1,500m at the US Olympic Track and Field Trials this June.

ZAP Endurance Summer Running Vacation, Moses H. Cone trails

n PUBLIC COURSES

Boone Golf Club: Boone, NC

Tom Adams, PGA

Architect Ellis Maples, Revision Rick Robbins

‘Must play’ Mountain Standard in 65th season. A mountain classic by Ross protégé Ellis Maples. Opened 1959, the Boone Golf Club proved a primary driver to growth of summer tourism in the High Country. 828-264-8760 | boonegolfclub.com

Mountain Glen: Newland, NC

Robert Nowak, PGA

Architect George Cobb

Nowak arrives from Cedar Rock in Lenoir replacing outgoing David Burleson. Play volume at historic highs at one layout that never grows old—day-in, day-out public mountain gem. Don’t miss the grill room. 828-733-5804 | mountainglengolfclub.com

Sugar Mountain Golf Club: Sugar Mountain, NC

Tom McAuliffe, Golf Director

Architect Frank Duane

Dynamite par 64. Everyman’s golf club in a land of giants. Former Golf Advisor 2nd rated public course under 6,000 yards in America. Fabulous putting surfaces and getting better every year under Supt. Bill Daniels. Celebrating its 50th Anniversary this season. 828-898-6464 | seesugar.com

Mt. Mitchell Golf Club: Burnsville, NC

Gus Camille, Golf Director

Architect Fred Hawtree

New owners in 2nd year. Spectacular property just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 344 at Hwy. 80 to Burnsville. Group getaway lodging specialists. For the day or the week. Toe River trout fishing. Food and beverage excellent. Since 1975. 828-675-5454 | mountmitchellgolf.com

Willow Valley: Boone, NC

Architect Tom Jackson (nine holes)

One of Jackson’s earlier creations, he’s now a member of the Carolinas Golf Hall-of-Fame as course architect. You won’t mistake turf conditions here for Augusta National, but “The Little Green Monster” is an exceptional par three course, a quick stretch of the legs, and a great value just minutes from Boone off Hwy 105 South.

828-963-6865 | facebook.com/WillowCreekNC/

Golf Guide

By Tom McAuliffe

After years of hemorrhaging players for reasons from cost to intimidation, golf is enjoying a resurgence not seen since Arnie went “Swashbuckler” on the first TV broadcasts in the sixties. In the golf-rich High Country, revenue growth is being plowed back into facilities, public and private, polishing already shining gems.

Keep this directory handy this spring to get the most from your time on the mountain golf courses.

Mountain Aire Golf Club: West Jefferson, NC

Architect/Committee

Revisions Dennis Lehmann

Popular Ashe County stop, driving range, good course, good folks in the pro shop.

Philip Shepherd carrying bright torch in Hagel family tradition enters his 13th season at the helm. What public golf was intended to be.

336-877-4716 | mountainaire.com

Grassy Creek Golf Club: Spruce Pine, NC

Craig Sparks, GM New Ownership in place. “We’re getting some work done,” said Sparks of the popular public course in Mitchell County where the front nine was dedicated in 1954 by Rev. Billy Graham. Find out what locals love about Grassy Creek. Supt. Howard McKeithen celebrating 47 years keeping golf real in Spruce Pine. 828-765-7436 | grassycreek.com

n RESORT LODGING W/ ACCESS TO GOLF

Hound Ears Club: Blowing Rock, NC

Peter Rucker, PGA–App State alum begins 42nd year at fabled club celebrating 60th year dazzling golfers in the Watauga River Valley.

Architect George Cobb | Revisions Tom Jackson

Private club with golf available for guests lodging in Clubhouse accommodations and via Qualified Member Home Rentals. A very special, playable golf course. 828-963-4321 | houndears.com

Jefferson Landing Country Club & Resort: Jefferson, NC

Dan Stepnicka, PGA

Architect Larry Nelson/Dennis Lehmann

Private club, but offers 100 beds on site for lodging guests with golf access. Outside play welcome when tee sheet allows. Sublime layout over gentle, rolling Ashe County farm land. A great property and great option for your group’s golf getaway.

Outside play welcome per space available. Call for tee times. Beautiful Ashe County classic. Clubhouse dining. 1-800-292-6274 | visitjeffersonlanding.com

Linville Land Harbor: Linville, NC

Michael Hayes, Operations manager

Architects Tom Jackson (A-9 Ernie Hayes)

Long-time private enclave between Linville and Pineola now open to public. Fabulous putting surfaces. Memorable back nine home to “Ernie’s Revenge.” 828-733-8325 | linvillelandharbor.com

n PRIVATE CLUBS (MEMBERS AND GUESTS ONLY)

Grandfather Golf & Country Club: Linville, NC

Chip King, PGA – Golf Director Emeritus

Jonah Cox, PGA

Architect Ellis Maples 828-898-4531

Blowing Rock Country Club: Blowing Rock, NC

Andrew Glover, PGA

Architect Donald Ross, Seth Raynor

Revisions Tom Jackson and more recently

BRCC revisions by Ross specialist Kris Spence a big hit. 828-295-3171

Beech Mountain Club: Beech Mountain, NC

Josh Bashore/Michael LaGace, PGA

Architect Willard Byrd

Located in Eastern America’s Highest Town at 5,506’. Ridge top layout with views of five states. After years wrestling with “Resort” access, Beech is private, guest play accompanied by member only. 828-387-4208 ext. 201 | beechmtnclub.org

Elk River Club: Banner Elk, NC

Dave Ambrose, PGA

Architect Jack Nicklaus/Bob Cupp

Toss in equestrian center, tennis, etc.—a complete private community 828-898-9773

Linville Ridge Club Linville, NC

Brent Allen, PGA

Architect George Cobb, Revisions Bobby Weed

“Eastern America’s Highest Golf Course” 828-742-4140

Diamond Creek: Banner Elk, NC

Joe Humston, PGA | Architect Tom Fazio 828-898-1800

Linville Golf Club: Linville, NC

Bill Stines, PGA

Architect Donald Ross

Revisions Robert Trent Jones, Sr., Bobby Weed.

Historic Eseeola Lodge member-sponsored guests only. 828-733-4311 | eseeola.com

Sugar Mountain Golf Club

Photo by Todd Bush

Blowing Rock Souvenir Sportswear

Area’s Largest Selection of Hats & Shirts

Furniture • Appliances

Small Household Items • Books Clothing & Accessories

1/2 Off on clothing every Saturday! Donations welcomed. Pick up available for furniture and appliances

Thank you for your continued support

828-262-5029

877 West King Street, Boone NC Open Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm SPONSORED

A Better Bouquet

By Tamara S. Randolph

Many products from nature brighten our lives. Who doesn’t love the pop of color a bouquet of cut flowers and greenery adds to our surroundings? But unless we grow the flowers ourselves, we may not know what goes on behind the scenes. In this spring installment of Resource Circle, we focus on cut flowers and floral arrangements.

Where Did Your Flowers Originate?

For those of us who love having flowers in our homes year round, local grocery stores and flower shops supply most of our flower needs through the colder months. Yet, it’s possible that those flowers have traveled thousands of miles to make it to our region. In fact, the majority of American florists buy cut flowers imported from Latin and South America—a recent report shows that only around 30 to 35 percent of fresh flowers are grown here in the U.S.

While nearly all flowers are “a thing of beauty,” many that come from outside our country have hidden costs. To start, transporting and storing fresh cut flowers require vast amounts of energy. Second, many of these flowers and greenery must be treated with powerful (and often harmful) substances—not necessarily in the fields, but prior to being shipped. Customs regulations require that certain chemicals, such as fungicides and insecticides, be applied to cut flowers before transport so that live, non-native pests do not hitchhike their way into our ecosystems. Those toxic residues can follow the flowers into your home.

Local Growers to the Rescue!

Fortunately our local Farmers’ Markets have opened for the season! And during late spring through autumn, they are a wonderful source for fresh, long lasting, chemicalfree, cut flowers and greenery. Locally grown and harvested flowers provide plenty of variety; they also supply habitat and food for an

assortment of pollinators, who in turn help pollinate our own food plants.

When visiting a market, take some time to get to know your flower growers and ask them to help you pick out a bouquet filled with blooms that look great together, for any occasion. Also inquire about their growing and land use practices—some practices are more ecologically balanced than others. And if you have a favorite flower shop or floral department in town, find out how they procure their flowers at different times of the year—the more flowers they can buy locally, the better. If not local, they can purchase flowers grown domestically on farms that participate in sustainability certification programs.

How Do You Display Your Flowers?

Beyond where your blooms come from and the environmental impacts of growing and transporting them, consider sustainability as you put your floral arrangements on exhibit for others to enjoy. Start with how you’re going to stabilize the stems. For simple arrangements, placing stems that are cut at different lengths in an attractive, reusable glass vase is hard to beat visually. For larger, more complex arrangements, there are several options to examine.

Floral Frogs—Also known as “flower frogs,” “arrangers,” “Kenzans” or “spiky frogs,” these invessel supports have been used in floristry for centuries. Floral frogs come in all shapes, sizes and materials, such as pottery, glass, metal and ceramics. Each frog contains holes, openings or metal pins—cut stems are inserted into the openings or in between the pins. Frogs are not only versatile, they often add an artistic element to your displays and can be used over and over again.

Floral Foam—Floral foam is placed in the bottom of a container to secure each stem in an arrangement. Unfortunately, this widely used product poses a significant problem for

the environment. Also called “green foam,” floral foam consists of minute particles of plastic pressed together into a dense block. And while the foam does a good job of absorbing water to transfer to cut flowers, it does a terrible job of dissolving in water—rather, it simply breaks into smaller and smaller pieces of freefloating microplastics. Floral foam fragments often enter the natural environment, including waterways, when water containing the foam is poured down the sink, or is discarded into the soil, or compost pile. Research has shown that the tiny foam fragments cause harm to aquatic animals who ingest them. If foam is used in any of your arrangements, be sure to contain the foam block and fragments before throwing them in the trash—the landfill happens to be the safest place for floral foam.

Other Support Systems—Some creative floral arrangers prefer folded or bunched up chicken wire placed at the bottom of a container. Natural pebbles are a popular choice, too. And a new generation of innovative, biodegradable floral foam substitutes are gradually making their way into the floral industry, including Oasis® TerraBrick™, made with plantbased, renewable coir (coconut husk fiber), and a compostable binder; the Oshun Pouch, a plant-based pouch filled with coir; and Sideau® Earthwool®, made from powdered rock that is heated, spun into fibers and pressed into a block.

Whatever method you choose to display your blooms, prolong flower life by re-cutting the stems and changing the water once or twice during the arrangement’s vase life. This prevents blockages in the stems, allowing them to continuously take up water. And when it’s time to say good-bye to your bouquets, return flowers and greenery to earth via your backyard or compost pile so their nutrients can replenish the soil rather than slowly decompose in a landfill.

L to R: Chicken wire support, photo courtesy of Sustainable Floristry Network; An assortment of vintage Floral Frogs; Fresh flowers at the Ashe County Farmers Market; Rustic pottery Floral Frog; Floral Foam

Welcome to The Pineola

By Steve York

At the intersection of NC Hwy 181 and US HWY 221 is the small community of Pineola. With multiple routes to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Grandfather Mountain nearby, this surprisingly dynamic community is home to several very vital businesses, plus a Post Office and the historic 100-plus-year-old Pineola Presbyterian Church. All of these enterprises are nestled within a small, three-mile radius. And one of the most vital of those is a unique lodging, camping, gifting, “watering hole” and local get-together attraction called The Pineola.

Billed as “Your Next Mountain Getaway,” it really is a surprisingly all-inclusive destination retreat for tourists, campers, shoppers, thirsty socializers, live music lovers, special event gatherers and, of course, weary travelers looking for an authentic mountain lodging atmosphere complete with all the modern conveniences and creative accommodations.

Originally built in early 1900, The Pineola has had an illustrious and impactful influence on the history and development of the whole Pineola, Linville Land Harbor, and Linville area. Today, new owners “CJ” and “MJ” (Carolyn and Mark) Johnson are continually building upon this century-old hospitality legacy with upgraded accommodations and special guest features to create an elevated guest experience…all while maintaining its heritage of authentic mountain charm.

The Johnsons officially took over The Pineola in mid-February 2021 and have been busy enhancing the facility and services ever since. Visiting customers and locals are warmly greeted by a spacious and updated “welcoming” lounge and tap room featuring a variety of wines, beers and even ciders. The tap room—operated by co-owners, Alan Johnson and Danny Childress—is a major hub for socializing and live music. The moment you breeze in, you’ll immediately notice the extensive tap room bar on the left wall featuring truly impressive handmade pine bar tops artfully crafted by Danny Childress. The spacious bar is a magnet for drawing patrons to pause, refresh and linger over cheerful conversations while enjoying their favorite beverage.

As for the live music? It really doesn’t get any better! High Country band legends The Johnson Brothers—featuring the aforementioned Alan Johnson—are often in the musical spotlight. Johnson has graced the stage of the Grand Ole Opry joined by stars like Lorrie Morgan and playing alongside famous names like Pam Tillis, Doug Stone, Terry Clark and David Kersh. So, it’s obvious to customers that the “musical bar” is already set pretty high.

On top of that, this is Alan Johnson’s dream come true, “Having a bar of my own and being able to play and feature live music has always been a dream of mine,” said Johnson. “So, when my friend, Danny,

was offered the opportunity by MJ to take over The Pineola taproom, I was all in,” he added.

Adjacent rooms to the Lounge include the Lodge’s check-in desk, the Bear Room, the Ski Room and the Pine Room (for quieter gatherings, conversations and board games), the “Beer Cave” for packaged beer to go, and—opening by this summer—a complete gift and crafts shop, Acorn Cabin Gifts.

Outside is the adjoining “Party Deck” with three firepits ideal for family reunions, weddings, group socializing and live music. Off deck is the recreation lawn featuring three pickleball courts, a basketball court, a 3-hole disc golf course, lawn games, cornhole, picnic tables, and walking trails for use by all guests and patrons.

And, of course, there’s virtually every style of lodging you might prefer. Along with the main Lodge’s fully appointed guest rooms, there are six comfy mountain cabins, “Glamping” sites, an RV Park, a treehouse, a tiny house, and tent camping sites with nearby restrooms and showers.

As owners “CJ” and “MJ” Johnson are happy to note, “Whether you are looking for a traditional lodge experience, feeling the mountain cabin vibe, or have your own home on wheels, we have a place for you!” For details and a complete photo gallery, visit thepineola.com

L to R: Alan Johnson, Danny Childress, MJ Johnson and CJ Johnson

Seven easy tips to lower your energy costs

Clean or change HVAC filters regularly to improve air flow and efficiency.

Use the microwave to cook food faster and reduce energy use. Or, grill outdoors in nice weather.

Adjust your ceiling fans to turn counterclockwise in summer. Then, bump up your thermostat setting to save on cooling costs.

Switch to energyefficient bulbs, like LEDs, to reduce lighting costs by as much as 80%. Wash clothes in cold water and do full loads.

Set your water heater temperature to 120° and choose showers over baths.

Install a programmable thermostat to save up to 10% on cooling and heating costs.

Check out Usage Tracker, too! This FREE tool shows your usage and costs, even factoring in the weather. You can also set a daily usage level and receive notifications if your home exceeds it. You’ll find Usage Tracker under “My Account” at BlueRidgeEnergy.com or on the Blue Ridge Mobile App.

Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/101 for even more ways to save from your trusted energy advisors.

World War II on the High Country Homefront

By Michael C. Hardy

Grace Hospital School of Nursing in Banner Elk trained members of the U.S. Cadet Nursing Corps. (Northwestern University)

Every county had its own Civilian Defense coordinator. (Northwestern University)

Scrap drives, air raid wardens, observation towers, rationing. When we think of World War II, we often think of D-Day, the battle of the Bulge, or Iwo Jima, places far away from the mountains of western North Carolina. Yet World War II unfolded and was supported in our own backyards and streets.

With memories of the last world war fresh in the minds of many, people did not want to see their country entangled in another conflict. Yet they watched, through their various local newspapers, as the world came unhinged. Many realized that United States involvement was inevitable, and some preliminary steps were taken to prepare. In May 1941, the Office of Civilian Defense was created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Each state governor was responsible for implementing the president’s directive. In turn, the governor appointed a chairman for each county. Wade Brown was chairman in Watauga, Ira T. Johnston for Ashe, and E.C. Guy in Avery. Each chairman named a committee that included the newspaper editor, chairman of the American Legion post, Rotary club, Odd Fellows and Masonic orders, sheriff, county school board member, agricultural extension agent, local banker, Works Progress Administration member, and woman’s club member.

There were numerous departments under Civilian Defense, all volunteers. These included Air Raid Wardens, Auxiliary Police, Auxiliary Firemen, Fire Watchers, Nurses Aids, Messengers, and others. Also under Civilian Defense, but somewhat separate from the local office,

were the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and the Aircraft Warning Service.

The Civil Air Patrol spent part of 1942 and 1943 patrolling the coast of North Carolina, looking for German submarines. While there have been CAP personnel recorded from neighbors Caldwell and Wilkes counites, none have yet been identified from Ashe, Watauga, and Avery counties. There were several Aircraft Warning Service posts in those three counties. The Aircraft Warning Service was also created in May 1941. Its purpose was to look for any aircraft that could be seen or heard, and to report that aircraft to a filter center. To do this, the spotter picked up the phone and told the operator, “Army Flash.” This connected the spotter to the filter center. The observer then related how many aircraft, number of engines, high or low, and which direction they were flying. If the military office at the filter center, also staffed by volunteers, knew of the flight, then all was good. If not, then fighters, usually from Morris Field in Charlotte, were dispatched to intercept the aircraft. These aircraft spotters, located all over the East Coast, Gulf Coast, and Pacific Coast, were an early form of human radar. There were five posts in Avery County: Crossnore, Newland, Banner Elk, Linville Falls, and Plumtree. Watauga County had two posts: Boone and Blowing Rock. In Ashe County, posts were located in Jefferson, West Jefferson, and Glendale Springs.

Many people will ask why we were watching for aircraft in western North Carolina. Was there really a threat of enemy bombers? The

idea was that an enemy operative could rent a plane and survey the area for targets of opportunity. There were many vital war industries in the area, like the numerous mica mines in the Toe River Valley. Just across the mountain into Tennessee were numerous dams powering various war-related ventures, like ALCOA in Blount County, Rohm and Naas in Knoxville, Tennessee Eastman Company in Kingsport, Holston Ordnance Works in Knoxville, and the mysterious Manhattan Project in Oak Ridge. The Aircraft Warning Service was deactivated in July 1944.

Numerous scrap drives were held in the area, beginning as early as October 1941. Both Ashe and Watauga reported collecting 850 pounds of aluminum for the war effort that month. The Appalachian Theatre in Boone even offered a special “aluminum matinee.” In Ashe County, the Works Progress Administration (W.P.A.) provided two trucks to haul scrap metal and rubber, asking that scrap be delivered to the nearest school, gas station, store, or garage for pickup. The October 1941 drive in Ashe netted some 500,000 pounds of scrap. The trucks were limited in where they could go because of rationing. Tires, gasoline, shoes, sugar, butter, meat, and coffee were all rationed. Each county set up a rationing board that determined who received what. For example, there were several types of gasoline rationing cards. Most people received the basic A card, limited to just six gallons a week. Type B cards were for those who drove six to ten miles daily. C cards allowed the drivers access

Everyone was encouraged to plant a Victory Garden, providing families with their own food and allowing more commercially grown foodstuffs to go to the troops. (Northwestern University)

to an unlimited amount of gasoline and were issued to critical workers, such as doctors, nurses, and defense employees.

Despite the distance from the coast, there were even air raid drills. A drill in Ashe County was held on April 24, 1942. Telephones, whistles, school bells, and sirens were used to alert the citizens in each county. Most participated, and those who did not take part did not seem to know about the drill. A drill was held in Boone in August 1942, then a statewide blackout drill in September. In February, Watauga County held a surprise drill. In Boone, all the citizens doused their lights, but the lit neon signs in closed stores presented a problem. A blackout in Blowing Rock in March 1943 met with at least one hold-out. Local Air Raid Warden N.C. Greene reported that Louise Wheelwright refused to cooperate, telling a police deputy that the blackouts were “entirely too often and stay on too long. We have a young baby here.” When confronted the next day, she told the Chief of Police that the blackout drills were “all tom foolery and nothing but a play game.” She did not think it was necessary and she “was not going to comply with any signals.”

Unlike Mrs. Wheelwright, most citizens were willing to assist on the homefront. There were seemingly countless ways that local people and businesses contributed to the war effort. Students at Crossnore High School in Avery County made wooden airplanes for training pilots. Numerous farms produced food, snap beans, cabbage, soy beans, and other

crops that helped feed people in other places. Purchasing War Bonds was a way in which every person helped buy the necessary materials to fabricate war munitions, and numerous war bond rallies prompted citizens to often purchase bonds beyond the prescribed local quotas. The Banner Elk Chapter of the Red Cross knitted clothing. Books of all types to be sent to soldiers were collected for the Victory Book Campaign. In Watauga County, collection points were at Greene’s Music Room, the Parkway Company, the office of the Watauga Democrat, the county library, the college library, the sewing room in Blowing Rock, and the Cove Creek High School. Families grew food in the Victory Gardens, and high school students joined the Victory Corps.

In 1944, Grace Hospital School of Nursing in Banner Elk became one of the schools that accepted students as part of the United States Nurse Corps. This program was open to all women between the ages of 17 and 35 who had graduated from high school and were in good health. So many enrolled that the school was forced to hire more staff.

While most supported the war effort in many different forms, not everyone was behind the steps that were being taken to make sure of an Allied victory. Louise Wheelwright’s refusal to comply with the blackout is just one such story. According to the Avery County jail register, there were fifty-nine soldiers arrested between January 1942 and August 1945 for being absent without leave or deserters. These men were held in the jail until someone

Scrap drives took place across the region on a regular basis. (Northwestern University)

from the military came and picked them up. World War II was the most costly, in both the lives of soldiers and civilians as well as monetarily, of all wars. There were thousands of men and women from the High Country who served in just about every aspect of that war. The men and women left behind on the homefront are not as well remembered as those who served overseas. Yet they provided vital services, and many were fully committed to do what they could to help the war effort.

Civilian protection (1941): These auxiliary firemen played an important part in our civilian defense in the event of air raids on American cities.

Buying war bonds helped finance the war. (Northwestern University)

Photo by Alfred T. Palmer, courtesy Library of Congress

A Tribute to Rain and Tin Roofs

By Jim Casada

My boyhood home lacked central heating, had no air conditioning, featured minimal insulation, and during my early years Momma labored over a wood-burning stove to prepare meals or can garden goods that figured so prominently in our daily diet. There was no television; only an ancient cabinet radio. Two magazine subscriptions, Reader’s Digest and The Saturday Evening Post, along with a subscription to the Asheville CitizenTimes, had to suffice on the literary front. We had a telephone but it was on a four-party line and casual conversation was verboten, not to mention the privacy problems presented by two elderly ladies all too anxious to enjoy pretty much any conversation they could “tune in” to by picking up their phone. The latter circumstance certainly wasn’t conducive to teenage forays into romance. The sum of the situation, although I didn’t realize the fact until I went off to college, was that economically we were poor though not impoverished.

Material possessions and slim bank accounts notwithstanding, my family were blessed in myriad ways. We ate wonderfully well thanks to growing and putting up our own food, raising chickens and hogs, having a small apple orchard, and enjoying nature’s ample bounty from frequent hunting and fishing excursions. We had dependable and congenial neighbors, a close-knit church family, and many members of our own extended family living nearby in the small community. The prevailing philosophy of “make do with what you’ve got” served us and countless others well.

Then, for a boy who absolutely reveled in all aspects of the outdoor experience, the fact that there was small game hunting almost at the doorstep, a river holding plenty of catfish and panfish only a few hundred yards away, and trout streams within hard walking or easy biking distance, were distinct blessings. Looking back, and discarding any and all economic considerations while doing so, I have to reckon mine was actually a rich childhood.

In that regard, in addition to the blessings already mentioned there were numerous other less obvious benefits of a non-material sort. Family sessions picking black walnut meats while listening to “Amos ‘n’Andy,” “Gunsmoke,” or “The Lone Ranger” on the radio punctuated winter evenings with pure pleasure. We enjoyed musical fare aplenty from that same vintage cabinet radio thanks to “The Louisiana Hayride” on KWKH out of Shreveport, “The Grand Ole Opry” on Nashville’s venerable WSM, and “The Wayne Raney Show” on WCKY in Cincinnati. All three stations featured what Raney often described as “50,000 watts of pure power.” Then there was our capacious front porch. It was ideally suited for warm weather gatherings to string and break beans, peel apples for canning or drying, shell peas, hear and watch the antics of screech owls that nested in a nearby white oak year after year, or just sit and rock while watching lightning bugs. The soothing motion of a rocking chair provided more comfort than the finest of opera boxes, and they were a perfect perch from which to listen to the rising and falling crescendo of nature’s

noise as frogs peeped in search of a mate or a mighty hallelujah chorus of katydids sawed away on their leg fiddles.

Yet in retrospect the most bountiful blessing of all featured the combination of the old home’s tin roof and rain. For pure restfulness and peace of mind, rain and tin form an unrivaled duo. They produce soothing, eminently satisfying music no philharmonic orchestra, no mighty choir of uplifted voices, can quite match. I’ve often mused, usually while listening in placid enchantment, about just how comforting the sounds of pattering raindrops can be. About the only thing in my experience that comes close, at least in situations where the sense of sound is involved, is being comfortably snuggled in a sleeping bag alongside a purling, murmuring mountain stream in some backcountry campsite. Similarly, when it comes to insomnia, rain performing its delightful dance on tin offers an ideal antidote. Rain bouncing off tin is, for me at least, the epitome of peace and well being.

The porch of my boyhood home, along with one of similar size and nature at my paternal grandparents, was a favorite gathering spot of an evening not only for my parents, siblings, and me but for portions of the extended family. In the summer months, such settings were a regular part of our daily existence, and often they were accompanied by cooling evenings. When that happened, you could count on some family member commenting, soon after the patter of

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How to Live Local

By Rainey MacArthur Ratchford

Welcome to the neighborhood! If you’re new to our area, I hope this isn’t the first time you’ve heard that. As you’ve noticed, this is a beautiful area. I moved here in 1988, and I find the culture is as attractive as the mountains and trees. However, that slower pace you may have been looking for can be an adjustment. We do things differently here, so I thought I’d give you the benefit of my 35 years of faux pas, confusion, and dawning understanding. You’ll make mistakes—we all do. A humble apology or request for help or advice will cover a multitude of missteps.

I confess that it took me more than a decade to figure out that there is just no point in passing cars on Highway 105 other than in the passing lanes. I would wait impatiently for the dotted yellow line to be on my side, only to pass ONE of the 42 cars nose-to-tail in front of me. Of course, I would be with all those same people when we finally reached the light in Boone or Banner Elk. Rather than trying to pass in that situation, my advice is to just relax. You have time to enjoy your music, listen to your podcast, or chat with the delightful people in the car with you. Really, we’ll all get where we need to go.

This Land Was Not Always Your Land

My husband and I have lived in our home for nearly 30 years. We have met people who lived in this house decades before we did, others who lived in an old

log cabin in the woods near us, and locals who played here as children. Some of these visitors have come to sit on our porch with us, telling stories and sharing recipes. They respect that we now hold the deed to this property, yet we feel they sort of have a right to visit, to see the old stone fireplace, and to tell us about the burn marks on the old floor. We enjoy the stories.

When you buy a house or land in this area (any area really), you are likely not the first one to be there. Before it was legally yours, it was someone else’s place to hide away, to build a fort or catch salamanders—to hunt deer to feed their family, or maybe to pray.

My friend Dee lives with her husband in the home they built themselves some 50 years ago. Through the joys and sorrows of life, Dee walked a path in the woods near her home, praying and finding peace. In recent years, as she has provided full-time care for her husband, that path became a place of memories and solace.

Part of that path goes through some property that was recently purchased by absentee landowners. The new landowners, without a word to Dee, have put up No Trespassing signs. From her perspective, Dee has had a door slammed in her face. (Oddly enough, these same people thought it would be okay to ride their ATVs on her land.)

If I could change the story of this path, the new landowners would recognize that

the land has a history. They would visit Dee and discuss the path. With no communication other than those signs, it’s difficult to call them neighbors.

Be a Neighbor

Here’s a truth: At some point, we all need neighbors. A tree will go down across the road, someone will have a medical emergency, or a pandemic will cause a toilet paper shortage. We will also have an opportunity to be a good neighbor, for the same reasons.

If you haven’t yet been greeted with baked goods or garden produce, I suggest you take the initiative. Learn the names and numbers of the people who live on your road (for at least a half-mile in either direction). That way, you can get in touch if you see smoke where there shouldn’t be any, or if some other incident happens.

My husband and I are blessed with great neighbors. Recently, a huge tree fell across our road, blocking our neighbor Sharon’s access to her house. I called another neighbor, Brian, who owns a chainsaw and knows how to use it. (My husband, the chainsaw-wielder in our house, was out of town.) Brian was with us almost immediately, suited up with safety gear. With two or three cuts, he cleared a way so Sharon, with her husband who was recovering from surgery, could drive up to her house.

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Photo by Sharon Verner

TIN ROOF: Continued from page 85 GET TICKETS ONLINE:

raindrops commenced, about how enjoyable the sound was. Grandpa Joe, a wizened old fellow who was a storehouse of folksy wisdom with a knack for getting right to the heart of matters, probably summed it up best. “My,” he would say, “just listen to the rain on the roof. Ain’t it fine.”

LIVE

Speak to People

When you’re walking in the park or on the Greenway, you don’t have to get everyone’s name and number, but we do greet people here. When you pass people face-to-face, try something like, “Hey,” or “Good morning!” Full conversations are not necessary, but they can occur as a result, when all parties have time. The greeting is only required on the first pass. After that, a nod or a small smile is just right.

Along the same lines, when you’ve stopped to get your mail, wave to the people who drive by. They’re usually your neighbors, and this is a step to building your community (aka networking in some parts of the country). For the same reason, you might also wave as you drive past people on the road in your neighborhood, including service people and delivery drivers.

3874 NC HWY 16S Jefferson, NC 28640

336-246-3066

info@zaloos.com

While indulging in nostalgia and a lifelong love affair with rain and tin roofs, I do have to vent a wee bit. As an inveterate reader and great lover of song, time and again I’ve encountered mention of rainfall partnered with the word rhythm. Matters of alliteration aside, that’s wrong; badly wrong. Rainfall isn’t rhythmic. It is constant only in its inconstancy, changeless yet ever changing, or, in a word, arrhythmic. Had it striven for precision, the hit song of yesteryear by The Cascades wouldn’t have carried the title “Listen to the Rhythm of the Falling Rain.” Instead it would have been something along the lines of “Listen to the Change of the Falling Rain.”

For many, rain evokes immediate thoughts of gloom, depression, or low spirits. Throughout my life I’ve been something of a contrarian, and here’s a situation where that certainly is the case. Rain sends my spirits soaring, at least when I think of it in conjunction with tin roofs. It evokes great gladness, not deep sadness. The only sadness is when the rain ceases and the instrument of tin it has been playing so sweetly is suddenly silenced. The concluding words of the Julie Roberts song, “Rain on a Tin Roof,” get it just right. “It’s a melody of passion raging on. And then it’s gone. And then it’s gone. Then it’s gone.” Only then does the sadness come.

Jim Casada is a full-time writer and the author or editor of dozens of books. To learn more about his most recent works such as A Smoky Mountain Boyhood and Fishing for Chickens: A Smokies Food Memoir, visit his website at www.jimcasadaoutdoors.com.

As you speak with people, have a care when speaking about people. I recall going to a store with my friend Amy and running into someone who spoke unkindly about another woman in the community. Amy listened without interrupting (something I’m still trying to learn), and then responded, “You know she’s my cousin, right?” Everyone is someone’s cousin, sister, brother-in-law, or best friend.

Prepare to Be Blessed and to Be a Blessing

If you sneeze in public here, you will most likely receive at least one “Bless you.” I was at a concert at the Appalachian Theatre last summer, and when a member of the audience sneezed, not only did we in the audience bless the sneezer, so did the band. That’s what happens in a community that cares enough to be courteous.

I’ve heard over and over from natives and moved-in locals like myself that they like new people, but they don’t like it when people try to fix or change them. You chose to move here for a reason, quite possibly because of the slower pace or the beautiful undeveloped spaces. Those attractive features are borne of the culture of this area.

The culture of this area has changed over time, partially because of newcomers like me. Our community is sort of like a potluck supper, where everyone brings their own flavors to the mix. So please join in. I hope that you will be blessed by being here, and that you will be a blessing to the community.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN

Dana Rominger on Living a Blessed Life in Banner Elk

By Kim S. Davis

One of the first things Dana Rominger mentioned during our conversation was, “I have lived a blessed life.”

I do not know the full recipe for living such a life, but I have learned several ingredients during this interview, including being a blessing to others—which is exactly what Mr. Rominger is to Banner Elk, NC. If you aren’t from around here, you might not be aware of his service to this community. However, if you stay for even a little while, you may see him on one of his trash collecting missions, or find yourself a recipient of fresh produce from his sharing garden.

It was a pleasure to learn more about this modest gentleman, who takes quiet pride in giving back to his community. One of his most cherished tasks is picking up litter along a two-mile stretch of highway from the town’s lone traffic light to the Avery/Watauga county line, or around the Post Office and in the town square where the stone clock tower is located. Dana Rominger’s dedication to keeping Banner Elk beautiful was noted in a 2021 issue of Our State Magazine where he explained that he did it, “Because somebody ought to.” He makes the same four-mile roundtrip trek every couple of weeks which takes him about four hours because he sometimes has to climb up banks to reach the trash. “I guess that makes my pace about a mile an hour,” he says cheerily. Certainly a witty sense of humor is one component of living a blessed life.

In addition to being a conscientious citizen, he is an enthusiastic gardener and has always maintained a vegetable garden. He likes to tell people that when he was a toddler, his family sent him out in his diaper with a hoe and encouraged him to “hoe

that corn.” And now, he says with a wink, “I am getting to the age where I’ll soon be out there in a diaper again. I guess I will have come full circle.” While Rominger has been gardening all his life, he has been sharing his abundant crops for a few decades; he plants extra with the intention of sharing at least half of it with others. Generosity is yet another ingredient of a blessed life.

A couple of years ago he started thinking about those with whom he had shared his harvest and guessed that he gave away produce to 35 different people, but when he actually listed the recipients it was 51. By the end of the season, he identified 72 households from six different countries. His crops include potatoes, onions, peas, green beans, corn, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, squash, tomatoes, and his specialty, lettuce. He plants lettuce in early April and harvests it all the way through November. During a few banner years he harvested into December.

He mostly takes his harvests to community members, particularly those who live farther away. But he confesses that he enjoys when recipients come and pick lettuce themselves because it cuts down on the work. I wondered how one might go about receiving some of his vegetables and he replied, “Sometimes when people walk along the back road by my garden and they brag on it, I will give them free lettuce.” That seems simple enough.

Unselfishly helping and sharing with others is increasingly rare in this day and age, so I was curious about what inspired Rominger to embrace community service. He explained that a life-changing experience back in the late 1970s helped shape his mindset. At that time, he felt an overwhelming calling to do something,

somewhere, to help others, but did not believe he had the skills for the Peace Corps. So back when Habitat for Humanity first started, he and his wife, Sally, traveled to Americus, GA, to meet with co-founder Millard Fuller. He asked Mr. Fuller if he might go somewhere for a year to build homes with Habitat for Humanity. Mr. Fuller said the look on Sally’s face indicated that a year might be a little long, but if Rominger could get the support from his church to raise necessary funding to build one house, he was needed in Zaire, Africa, for a couple of months to help build a home. So he went back to Mt. Calvary Baptist Church where they raised more than enough, and Rominger went to Zaire and built a house. That transformational trip helped inspired his enduring service to community.

In addition to blessing others, a carefree sense of humor, and generosity, I’ve learned a principal component of a blessed life is sharing it with the right partner. Dana Rominger met Sally King while attending Cranberry High School. And while their love has endured for many decades, he says they might not have married at all if he did not have a gender-neutral name. He enjoyed sharing the story of their first meeting, when he noticed Sally in the hall and approached her to tell her he knew someone who wanted to ask her out. When she asked who, he proclaimed, “Me!”

Their first date—to the Junior-Senior dance—almost didn’t happen. After asking Sally to be his date, she asked her mother if she might go to the dance with Dana. Sally’s mother, known to be strict, thought Dana was just a girlfriend of Sally’s. After

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Dana Rominger in his garden.

Inset: Rominger helping to keep Banner Elk clean.

they had her special dress and were anticipating the event, she learned that Dana was actually a young man. She permitted Sally to attend the dance with Dana, accompanied by a chaperone, of course. “If I had been Bob or George,” Dana exclaims, “I might not have Sally.”

During the course of our chat, I asked him if he has lived his whole life in Banner Elk; his matter of fact reply was, “Not yet I haven’t.” But he was born and raised in this community. “This town has changed a lot in my life time. I grew up along the main road (near where Dollar General is now) and a car might pass by once every five minutes; now you can hardly get across the street.” But along with growing pains like too much traffic, Mr. Rominger identified a beneficial change. “There is now more work around here so residents don’t have to go off the mountain to get good work.”

Being able to earn a good living close to home is important to Rominger because he began his career working as an accountant for Henredon Furniture in Morganton, where he either stayed during the week, coming home only on weekends, or commuted down the mountain daily. He got bored with the accounting work and the travel and was fortunate to find a job close to home doing survey work. He worked in the surveying industry for 44 years, the last half of those years with Willard Surveying. He loved his job and his boss (most of the time it was just the two of them)—he wryly shared that his proudest accomplishment was receiving “employee of the month” four times.

Rominger demonstrates that loving what you do and keeping busy is a central ingredient of a blessed life. In addition to his surveying career, he was an early and enduring member of Banner Elk Fire and Rescue. He left Willard Surveying in 2016, not because he wanted to retire, but because he had back surgery. However, he says the surgery was a mixed blessing because he didn’t realize retirement could be so good. “The great thing about retirement is that if you get tired at two o’clock, you can just quit working.” While he loves retirement he also notes that he stays busier now than he did before he retired. And fortunately for the Banner Elk Community, he doesn’t plan on cutting back any time soon, not as long as he is able to keep on going and growing.

DANA ROMINGER: Continued from previous page

The Power of Collaboration

The Young Professionals of Avery, Watauga & Ashe

By Steve York

There are many familiar adages lauding the value of teamwork, of pooling resources, of combining talents and of building collectives. Examples: “The whole is more than the sum of its parts,” “A home is more than a collection of bricks,” and “The Beatles were more than just John, Paul, George and Ringo.” Or, as Margaret Mead once stated, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world.”

Although it’s tough to top the above “wise sayings”—especially Margaret Mead’s— here’s another: Collaboration ignites inspiration, imagination, and innovation. That notion seems to be a common takeaway from the spirit and initiative that link three individual groups called “The Young Professionals” of Avery, Watauga and Ashe counties.

Each group enjoys an affiliation with, and strong support from, their respective Chambers of Commerce. Yet, by their youthful makeup, their dynamics and their core aspirations, these groups are unique in focus. And the spirit that motivates these Young Professionals is enhanced by and clearly spelled-out in their very moniker… Young Professionals.

While varying a bit from group to group, the defining age range for membership runs from around 20 to 40 years old,

with some starting at 21 and some extending the upper limit to age 45. Collectively, they share a mutual commitment to furthering their own professional goals while giving back to their communities and promoting the overall prosperity of the entire High Country. And in the process, they are receiving notable acclaim and awards for their contributions.

The more recently ignited of these groups is the Avery County Young Professionals, whose motto is, “The next leaders of Avery start here.” The group’s head, Dalton Kilby, recalled, “When my wife and I moved to Banner Elk in 2020, we noticed there weren’t enough existing organizations or gathering locations for younger full-time residents in our community. Because of this, we felt like there weren’t many folks our age in Avery County. However, since starting Avery County YP group, I’m happy to have been proven wrong. We do exist. We just needed a space to come together, meet each other, and start making connections.

“The Avery group was started by me in August of 2023 with help from the Avery Chamber of Commerce,” Kilby continued. “We are a group of 20 to 44 year-olds that either work or live in Avery County and are passionate about entrepreneurship, community, and the future of Avery

County. Since August, we have formed a Board of Directors, have recruited over 40 members, and have held six events. One of our most noteworthy successes was raising over $2,000 for the local non-profit, Western Youth Network, during their annual Festival of Trees. We plan to make this an annual effort moving forward,” he added.

“We connect young professionals with opportunities to engage and make a positive impact in Avery County and beyond,” said Kilby. “Our programming for this year includes events to help achieve this mission. Monthly ‘Meetup’ events are centered around education, networking, volunteerism, and just-for-fun social gatherings. Fundraising opportunities that we’ve identified so far consist of teacher/classroom grants for Avery County Schools, routine volunteer work at our local non-profits, entrepreneurial grants for new businesses in Avery, and collaboration with local government and civic entities to participate in decision making for the future of the county,” Kilby concluded.

Next door to Avery in Watauga County we have the High Country Young Professionals, or “Yo-Pros,” a name they’ve adopted for their group. Their stated goal is first and foremost to connect like-minded individuals across Western North Carolina.

Ashe County Young Professionals Bailey Little and Harley Nefe cheer on Joshua Biggers as he competes in the 2023 Blue Ridge Brutal.

As their mission quotes, “We’re a dedicated group of professional young adults under age 40 serving in various industries across the High Country. The Yo-Pros are reshaping the High Country’s business and social landscape, one networking event at a time.”

Carrie Henderson, Committee Chair of the Yo-Pros, noted that the High Country Young Professionals has been in existence for quite a while but has been refreshed more recently. “We reformed our group in February 2023 and held an official launch that May. This past year we mainly wanted to work on gathering a group of like-minded young professionals and get the word out that the High Country YoPros were back!” noted Henderson.

“To be clear, since our Boone Area Chamber of Commerce reaches beyond Boone, our group isn’t limited to people within Boone, and they don’t have to be a Chamber member to join. We welcome anyone from across the High Country,” she added.

The High Country Yo-Pros meet the first Tuesday of the month, generally between 5 and 7 p.m. depending on the date and specific location. Their free meetings offer a variety of agendas such as workshops, professional seminars, leadership coaching, and idea sessions, and occasionally they feature live local Young Professional musicians.

Currently boosters of area organizations like eco-friendly Blue Ridge Con-

servancy and MountainTrue, the Yo-Pros plan multiple community projects, partnerships and charitable events this summer. And, following in the footsteps of previous “Rising Star” award winners Danielle Neibaur in 2022 and Ashli Kemo in 2023, the group is proud to note that several members were nominated for the “4 Under 40” awards this year (winners to be announced at the annual awards ceremony on April 24).

Up in Ashe County, the Ashe County Young Professionals organization is sponsored by the Business and Community Development Committee of the Ashe Chamber of Commerce and is currently headed up by co-leaders Joshua Biggers (Moderator) and Bailey Little (Scribe and Social Media Coordinator). Although originally started in 2021, previous leaders were drawn away for other commitments and memberships had dropped. So, when Biggers and Little were invited to assume leadership in late 2022, it was an opportunity for them to help rebuild.

“One change we made was increasing the amount of time we spend together as a group each month,” noted Little. “Previously, we had only one and felt that wasn’t enough. So, we decided to have our regular organizational meeting plus social gatherings. As a result, our members not only show up for social events, they also come to volunteer, to give back to our community and to help with monthly planning,” she added.

Examples of their “give back” include a volunteer cleanup project at the Todd community garden plus initiatives to help support their local VFW, Ashe County Habitat for Humanity and the Ashe Food Pantry, to name just a few.

Summarizing the Ashe Young Professional’s agenda, Moderator Biggers noted, “Our group stands as a key driver for Ashe County’s future growth. We’ve successfully integrated volunteering, networking, and mentoring into the core of our foundation. And we take pride in our 20+ active members—a diverse group of men and women ages 21 to 45 years old from worldwide backgrounds—who are consistently engaging in nine or more volunteer events each quarter. We meet the first Wednesday of every month; we also have one social event each month and do multiple volunteer opportunities per month. Those dates are not set because we schedule them the month prior at the planning meeting,” he concluded.

As exemplified by these three Young Professional groups, collaboration does indeed ignite inspiration, imagination and innovation, plus…meaningful community involvement. For membership guidelines, meetings and community project information, make contact at: averyoungpros@ gmail.com for Avery County, boonechamber. com/hcyp for High Country Yo-Pros, and TheACYP@gmail.com for Ashe County.

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Yo-Pro Committee with Adam Church Avery County Young Professionals

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Family Day at the Williams YMCA

The Williams YMCA of Avery County is offering Healthy Kids Day® as part of their NEW Family Day at the YMCA on April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family Day at the YMCA will feature activities, vendors, and opportunities for youth of all ages and families of all kinds! As a national event, Healthy Kids Day® focuses on active physical play, nutrition education, STEM, arts, and much more. “It was fitting to combine Healthy Kids Day® with our Family Day at the YMCA so that those who attend the event can take part in all that the YMCA has to offer including membership promotions, free swimming in the pool, access to group exercise classes, and scheduled activities on the courts in the Blackburn Athletic Facility.”

Other activities included with Healthy Kids Day® include:

n YMCA Open House to the whole community

n Imagine Circus

n Appalachian Football Club and ‘Squatchy’

n Live DJ

n Food Trucks

n ‘Biggie’ from Boone Bigfoots Baseball

n A variety of vendors providing services in Avery County to families and youth

n And much more!

The Williams YMCA is also partnering with Blue Ridge Partnership for Children to bring BLOCK Fest® to Family Day at the YMCA. BLOCK Fest® is a research-based, interactive exhibit that promotes early math and science learning for young children through block play. Between Healthy Kids Day® and BLOCK Fest®, no matter your age, you’ll be able to have fun at the Williams YMCA of Avery County! ymcaavery.com

High Country Caregivers Pathways to Success Program

Katie Allen has been in High Country Caregivers’ program from the time she was 12 years old. Through her involvement with HCC, she has participated in many different activities offered through the Kinship Navigation program, including the Pathways to Success (previously “The Learning Shack”) sub-program designed for participants to learn marketable skills, career readiness, and financial literacy.

Pathways to Success opened multiple doors for Katie through a piqued interest in sewing, but most importantly for her current career as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in an assisted living facility. Her direction toward becoming a CNA began after a campus tour of Mayland Community College (mayland.edu).

After many conversations with nursing and emergency medical staff at Mayland, she knew this was her calling. Upon receiving her CNA certification during high school and graduating high school from Mayland’s Early College program, Katie began making steps to success. At just 18 years old, she chose to move to Indiana with extended family and begin her career as a CNA.

Today, at almost 19 years old, she continues to aid older individuals with daily activities and personal medical needs as a CNA. She is continuing her education at a local community college in Indiana to receive her Associates Degree in Nursing and Registered Nurse licensure. Katie lives in a home she was able to purchase completely on her own—she was able to participate in the financial literacy class through Pathways to Success and credits this program for her ability to buy a home at the age of 18. “Our organization is honored to have had Katie Allen in our program for six years, and we hope for her continued success in the future.” highcountrycaregivers.org

Welcome Williams Deli and Bakery

Why a Deli/Bakery? The owners of the Deli, Dan and Cortney Williams, along with their three children, James, Josh and Kelly, were having dinner one evening discussing various subjects when the topic of opening a place to have lunch, and especially baked goods, in Banner Elk, NC, came up.

“We all have a passion for good food and Cortney and Kelly are always cooking something good,” said Dan Williams. The family decided they were going to give everything they had “and dive into the unknown!”

Now, almost two years later, the business is thriving and the family is enjoying their new venture. Williams Deli and Bakery is locally known for their delicious sandwiches and delectable desserts. And, as the Williamses add, “As a family-run business, we are dedicated to serving our customers and supporting our community.”

Diners can select from a range of gourmet sandwiches to dine in or take to-go. Williams Deli and Bakery also offers fresh baked goodies, and takes orders for specialty desserts for birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, “or just because you want it.”  They say they are grateful to “all the wonderful folks/businesses/ chambers and the Town of Banner Elk for their support!” The Williams family looks forward to many years of providing great food in a welcoming environment. “Stop by and taste for yourself!” NC 184, High Country Square Plaza, Banner Elk, williamsdeliandbakery.com

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Community & Local Business News

New Business Owners in Banner Elk

The Banner Elk Shirt and Banner Elk Soap & Candle Companies have recently gotten new ownership. William and Angie Ryan purchased Souvenir Shirts (Banner Elk Shirt Company) and the Banner Elk Soap & Candle Companies from Don and Cathie Iverson, who owned Souvenir Shirts for 29 years and built the Soap & Candle Company during COVID. William recalls buying shirts and gloves each winter season from the Shirt Company and is proud to now be a part of the community where he learned to ski and made so many family memories in his youth.

The Banner Elk Shirt Company has become a go-to location for repeat tourists each season for finding gifts and souvenirs. The Iversons’ vision of a family run, family friendly business is recognized by the Ryans, who said, “We are appreciative to be able to build on where the Iversons left off and raise our family in this area— that means as much to us as it did to them.”

The Banner Elk Soap & Candle Company has grown each year, and the Ryans noted that they recently shipped over 400 soaps before Christmas to people who had visited the area the past year and wished to give the products as gifts. Candle pouring classes are popular with both tourists and locals, providing a warm and dry activity for families and parties. The Ryans said there’s been an increase in residents visiting the store and desiring to host groups there. Angie added, “We are happy to host groups for after-hour or private candle pouring classes and events for church groups, bridal parties, and multi-family get-togethers. Our location and the ambiance of the store make it a perfect place for relaxing and meeting, with fresh smells and candle pouring activities for everyone to enjoy.” Find Banner Elk Shirt and Banner Elk Soap & Candle Companies on Facebook.

Pain Relief in the High Country

Let there be light—for your pain, skin, injuries or weight-loss goal, that is. Dr. Derrick Denman, DC, PA, owner of High Country Pain Relief was the first to bring SoftWave® Tissue Regeneration Technology to Boone, and now introduces his patients to Red Light Therapy. Through a Whole-Body Chamber, Denman’s patients experience deep relaxation with this light therapy, which is a full-body treatment. There is another term for light therapy: photobiomodulation (or PBM for short). High Country Pain Relief uses a professional red light therapy system that uses high-intensity LEDs to deliver targeted light therapy to the entire body.

“We believe in giving our community the highest quality technology, and we specialize in several unique alternative therapies that offer non-invasive ways to decrease pain, increase mobility and help people enjoy life again,” said Dr. Denman. “There’s no reason to suffer—now we offer Red Light Therapy, too! This practice has improved the lives of hundreds since we opened High Country Pain Relief in December 2022 and our services have added value to our community. I feel privileged to serve others with these safe and effective therapies that help our patients heal, repair and restore at the cellular level.”

Red light therapy (RLT) is a type of photomedicine that may help:

n Accelerate Healing: Speed up recovery from injuries, wounds, and muscle soreness.

n Boost Circulation: Improve blood flow, facilitating better nutrient and oxygen delivery to cells.

n Boost Energy Levels: Increase ATP production for enhanced vitality.

n Enhance Mood and Sleep: Balance hormones, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.

n Revitalize Your Skin: Enhance skin elasticity,

reduce wrinkles, and achieve a more youthful appearance.

n Relieve Pain and Discomfort: Alleviate joint pain, arthritis, and inflammation.

For red light therapy to work, specific protocols and dosages have to be used, depending on your health issue, “which is why a knowledgeable practitioner is so important,” said Denman.

You can learn more or schedule a New Patient appointment at: highcountrypainrelief. com/red-light-therapy/ The office is located at 240 Shadowline Drive Ste. A6 near Harris Teeter in Boone NC. 828-386-1888

Cherry Gap Ridge: A New Subdivision Offering Homes and Homesites

Tucked away amidst the lofty peaks, a tranquil mountain retreat awaits, offering an escape from the chaotic rhythm of urban life. This haven is nestled on Beech Mountain next to one of North Carolina’s finest golf courses, Beech Mountain Club. Cherry Gap Ridge, a new gated community, is in the heart of nature’s sanctuary, where time slows and the expansive vistas paint a portrait of serenity, inviting homeowners and guests to immerse themselves in the beauty that surrounds them.

The defining feature of this mountain retreat community is its long range, panoramic views. The west facing views from Cherry Gap Ridge stretch across multiple states and offer breathtaking sunset vistas across the Watauga River valley and beyond.

In addition to its incredible scenery, the retreat offers an abundance of recreational activities in the immediate area to suit every taste. Adventurous souls can embark on hikes along winding trails and pristine alpine lakes. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, peaceful walks through lush forests provide an opportunity for quiet contemplation. Autumn is a wonderful time to enjoy the area’s spectacular foliage and fall festivals. During the

winter months, the mountains transform into a playground for snow enthusiasts, with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing among the many activities.

Yet, perhaps the most cherished aspect of this mountain retreat is the feeling of community. Here, strangers become friends as they gather around crackling bonfires under the starlit sky, sharing stories and forging connections that transcend time and place. Whether it’s a meal with friends and family prepared by one of the many local eateries, a yoga session, music concert, art festival, or round of golf, each experience fosters a sense of belonging and kinship on Beech Mountain.

In this fast-paced world, finding moments of tranquility can feel like a luxury. However, amid the spectacular homesites on Cherry Gap Ridge, time seems to stand still, allowing one to reconnect with the rhythm of nature and rediscover the simple joys of life. Come see the vast long-range mountain views awaiting you at Cherry Gap Ridge. Pre-market tours are available starting at the end of May 2024. Very limited availability, so book early! CherryGap.com, 828-360-1000

Holston Camp and Retreat Center

Celebrates Its 69th Summer Season

In June, Holston Camp and Retreat Center (HCRC) will kick off its 69th Summer camping season! Located off Wild Cat Lake in Banner Elk, HCRC hosts summer camps for children age 4 through high school.

HCRC offers two distinct types of programs. The first is a day camp which runs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Campers are broken out by age groups—age 4 through second grade; third through fifth grade; and sixth through eighth grade. The second type of camp is HCRC’s traditional overnight camp, which runs Sunday afternoon through Friday afternoon for rising second graders through

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high school-aged youth. All children are welcome at HCRC.

Both types of camps offer a unique outdoor setting where campers are exposed to hiking, swimming, zip lines, canoeing and more. HCRC is a faith-based camp with a covenant relationship with Holston Presbytery in TN as well as relationships with many local churches in Avery County and surrounding counties.

“Our goal at HCRC is that every child who wants to come to camp has the ability to come to camp regardless of financial ability.” Scholarships are available by filling out the request form at holstoncenter.org. For questions, or to schedule a tour, call the camp at 844-4657866 x2 for Dave Cohn, Executive Director, or 844-465-7866 x3 for Madeline Horne, Program Director.

Three Trails:

An Elkin Hotel Made for Explorers

Downtown Elkin’s newest lodging property capitalizes on location. Three Trails hotel occupies the corner of Main and Bridge streets in the center of downtown. Its name honors Elkin’s status as a trails town. Three major trails—the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, the Yadkin River State Blueway Trail, and the NC Mountains-to-Sea Trail—converge in this small town in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills.

Owned and operated by The Carolina Experience, the boutique hotel caters to leisure and business travelers who want to explore downtown and the surrounding area. The self-checkin model, similar to a vacation rental, allows patrons to efficiently check in to their accommodations with a key code and spend the majority of their time hiking, shopping or exploring wineries along the Surry County Wine Trail.

“Elkin has welcomed us with open arms,” said Shannon Pearson, chief experience officer

with The Carolina Experience. “We want to help others enjoy and explore what we have personally enjoyed and explored in Elkin.”

Opened in fall 2022, the hotel maintains much of the building’s late 1800s character by preserving original brick work and unique features, such as an old bank vault that is now an oversize closet. In addition to a bank, the building housed dry goods stores for decades. Locals fondly remember working and shopping at Spainhour’s department store.

Fourteen guest suites vary, from studios to one-, two- and three-bedroom units. All units have full kitchens. A rooftop deck is one of the hotel’s most popular amenities. It’s ideal for a pre-dinner cocktail, picnic or nightcap while watching the sun set over downtown Elkin.

Three Trails works closely with The Reeves Theater down the street. Guests staying during the theater’s semimonthly “Martha Bassett Show,” a folksy variety-style night of music, receive complimentary tickets and a room discount.

The hotel is within easy walking distance of numerous restaurants; bars, tasting rooms and a beer garden; coffee shops; and a variety of retail stores. The hotel is also around the corner from the Elkin Vine Line station, where visitors board a shuttle for a day of winery hopping.

To learn more about Three Trails and book a stay, visit TheCarolinaExperience.com/properties/three-trails-elkin-property

Hound Ears Club Celebrates 60 Years of Excellence, Community, and Legacy

As Hound Ears Club proudly commemorates its 60th anniversary, the celebration extends beyond the club’s scenic mountain landscapes and vibrant community to honor the rich history and vision of the Robbins brothers, whose pioneering spirit laid the foundation for

Community & Local Business News

this iconic establishment situated on an impressive 860 acres in the High Country of North Carolina.

In the early 1960s, brothers Grover, Harry, and Spencer Robbins, inspired by the breathtaking beauty of the area, envisioned creating a haven that harmonized with the natural surroundings. Their dream was to establish a private club that would not only showcase the area’s mountain splendor but also provide an exceptional retreat for families seeking a unique blend of recreation, camaraderie, and tranquility. A force in tourism and development, the brothers also created the regional attractions of Tweetsie Railroad and Land of Oz theme parks, skiing at the Beech Mountain Resort, along with various other local residential communities.

In 1964, the Robbins brothers turned their vision into reality with the founding of Hound Ears Club, their first golf and resort community. The name itself reflects the distinctive rock formations resembling the ears of a hound that grace the landscape. The previous owner of the land, Claude Shore, is credited with giving the brothers the idea for the Club’s unique name with his casual comment, “You surely can see the Hound Ears rocks today.”

Over the decades, Hound Ears Club evolved into a premier destination, thanks to the Robbins brothers’ foresight and dedication. Their legacy endures in the meticulously maintained golf course, the state-of-the-art tennis facilities and pickleball courts, a first-class fitness center, the outdoor pool with its own waterfall, flyfishing, top-notch dining, social activities, and an array of outdoor activities that continue to captivate members and their families.

As part of the 60th anniversary celebrations, Hound Ears Club will pay homage to the Robbins brothers and famed architect Claus Moberg through special events and tributes that highlight their pivotal role in shaping the club’s identity. “We owe a debt of gratitude to the Robbins brothers for their vision, determination, and commitment to creating a place of unparalleled beauty and community spirit,” said Kelly Propst, Club President. “As we celebrate 60 years of Hound Ears Club, we also celebrate the casual elegance, authentic charm, and natural beauty the Robbins brothers envisioned for our members and this area.” houndears.com, facebook.com/houndearsclub, instagram.com/houndearsclub

Madeline Stewart to Represent Blue Ridge Valley in Mrs. North Carolina America Pageant

Blowing Rock resident Madeline Stewart will represent the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Mrs. North Carolina America pageant this May. Madeline has called Blowing Rock home since 2021 and currently works at a small, family-owned business in the High Country, Mustard Seed Market and Home. Madeline is also involved in the community by teaching hiphop and creative movement dance classes each week at Harvest House Dance in Boone.

“Entering the Mrs. North Carolina pageant has always been a dream of mine,” said Stewart. “My mom was the first runner-up in Mrs. Illinois America in 1991 and she has always inspired me. I have wanted to follow in her footsteps since I was a little girl.” Madeline will be promoting awareness for two platforms during the pageant.

The first is Project Heal (theprojectheal. org). Madeline is an ambassador to help raise awareness for eating disorders and eliminate the negative stigma of mental health. In 2015, Madeline struggled with Anorexia Bulimia and was able to overcome mental obstacles and body image dysmorphia to regain her health and confidence. “My goal is to share my struggles with my confidence and body image so people who are also struggling will know they are not alone,” says Stewart.

The second platform for Madeline is the importance of the furniture and textiles

industry as well as domestic manufacturing in North Carolina. “I want to be a voice for designers, factories, and sales representatives to increase awareness of this industry and why it is vital to our economy in North Carolina.”

Madeline was selected to compete with the local crown and title of 2024 Mrs. Blue Ridge Valley America. She will compete for the state title of Mrs. North Carolina America on May 5 in Lincolnton, NC. Her sponsors include local businesses such as Juice Boone, Canvas Beauty Bar, Ashley Olson Photography, The Broyhill Chateau, Common Good, The Speckled Trout, and the Mustard Seed Market and Home, as well as local individuals and families. If you are interested in sponsoring and supporting Madeline during her journey, please get in touch with her directly at madelinecstudios@gmail.com.

Barter Theatre Renovation Complete

Congratulations to the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, VA, on the completion of a major seven-figure renovation to their main performance venue, the Gilliam Stage. It reopened on April 12 with a revival of their popular musical Ring of Fire about “The Man in Black” himself, Johnny Cash. A major part of the funding came from the Commonwealth of Virginia, who appropriated $700,000 toward the project.

Amy Wratchford, Barter’s interim managing director, told local media that the improvements included replacing the seats, “which have been recovered and refurbished a few times,” but “are as close in design to the originals as possible.” She added that the carpet has been replaced, with additional upgrades to the stages and dressing rooms. “It

has made the space more comfortable for our patrons and supports our artists in the best way possible.”

The storied history of the building predates the company itself. In fact, the earliest theatrical event known to occur was a production of “The Virginian” on January 14, 1876, the proceeds of which were used for facilities and repairs. In 1890, the Sons of Temperance transferred the building’s title to the Town of Abingdon to be used as a town hall for the benefit of the citizenry. In addition to offices, the town used the building as a fire hall. Until 1994 a fire alarm was stationed on the roof of Barter Theatre and sounded as needed at any time day or night. When the fire siren sounded during a Barter performance, the actors were instructed to freeze their position on stage and to resume the action when the alarm concluded.

Many of the original interior furnishings in the theatre were salvaged from the Empire Theatre of New York City before its destruction. When Barter’s founder Robert Porterfield learned that the Empire, constructed in 1875, was slated for destruction he was given one weekend to remove furnishings and equipment for use at Barter. Porterfield and his crew came away with $75,000 worth of seats, lighting fixtures, carpeting, paintings, and

Fishing with The Speckled Trout Outfitters

The Speckled Trout Outfitters was born over two years ago out of a passion for community and adventure. The Brinker family— Will, Eric, Erica, and Emily—had been tossing around the idea of another business venture to go along with their restaurant, The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop. After

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tapestries. The lighting system at the Empire, designed and installed by Thomas Edison, was used at Barter Theatre through the mid-1970s. bartertheatre.com (contributed by Keith Martin)

Building Your Dream Home in the High Country?

Most people embarking on building a new home do not have experience with the myriad decisions involved, nor do they understand the potential domino effect of some choices. Remote owners are particularly vulnerable to mistakes and need independent advice and counsel.

“Projects by Proxy singularly represent our

some steady convincing from the restaurant’s head chef, Michael Foreman, also an avid angler, the crew decided to make it happen. The Speckled Trout Outfitters was set up in the back of the restaurant in a corner where all the necessities of fly fishing were provided: rods, reels, line, flies, the works. One year and seven months later, the outfitter made a serious upgrade and moved into a building right next door to the restaurant, making a reality of what had been just a dream: a full retail space and tap room where customers could book a fishing or hiking adventure, purchase high quality gear, and tell their stories over a cold drink. There are even two short-term rental spaces right above the outfitter called Rising on Main for those who want to stay, eat, play, and shop all in one spot.

Over the past year, the team has stuck true to four values: Integrity, Stewardship, Community, and Excellence. “In all that we do, whether in the shop, on the water, or on

clients’ interests thereby helping achieve quality, timely, and economic results,” says company owner, Chuck Gorum. “As the Owner’s Representative we are committed to promoting teamwork. But, while we always put our client’s interests first, we believe that the best results are achieved by building relationships based on trust and mutual respect.”

Projects by Proxy utilizes a hands-on approach to construction management. By way of extensive communication, they keep clients in touch with their project and the construction team, clearly focused on the homeowner’s desires.

Starting from the time a lot is purchased, through design, construction, commissioning of home systems and finally move in, Projects by Proxy acts as partner. They help answer technical questions, coordinate experts, facilitate special services and simply serve as your High Country Construction Concierge

Owner Chuck Gorum has over four decades of experience in construction, facilities management and contracting on both the domestic and international playing fields. A licensed engineer, he is now bringing his expertise to the High Country and the often unique building challenges found here. Learn more at projectsbyproxy.com.

a trail, we are committed to making sure it all aligns with our values. We have also had the great pleasure of getting to work with many other local organizations, such as the Blowing Rock Trout Derby, and even some not so local, such as The Palometa Club in Mexico, where we sent over a dozen clients this year for an amazing destination fly fishing adventure.” All are welcome in the outfitter and on Speckled Trout Outfitters’ guided trips. Learn more at thespeckledtroutoutfitters.com, or stop by the shop at 916 Main Street, Blowing Rock, NC. 828-773-8852

Kentucky Derby Fundraiser in Early May

The Spirit Ride Therapeutic Riding Center will hold its annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser on May 4. This event is the main method of raising funds for the organization’s operating costs. Because Spirit Ride does not charge a fee for services, the fundraiser has a major impact on the group’s operations. Spirit Ride also welcomes in-kind donations for the event. “We need anything from Auction Items to Corporate Sponsors.” Spirit Ride is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that serves children ages 3-17 in Western North Carolina. They provide Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in an effort to achieve goals that enhance physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills for children with a wide array of diagnoses. To learn more, donate, or purchase tickets, visit spiritridenc.org

Heroes on the Mountain Veterans Event

The 8th Heroes On The Mountain event since 2013 honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation’s military disabled combat veterans was recently held at Appalachian Ski Mtn in Blowing Rock, NC. The event was planned, organized and sponsored by the Appalachian Ski Patrol. Over 60 Wounded Warrior military veterans from the national Wounded Warrior Project were treated to a day of complimentary skiing, snow boarding

and lessons from the French Swiss Ski College, thanks to support from the Moretz family, owners of Appalachian Ski Mtn. A military style opening ceremony complete with ski patrol director and guest speaker comments, singing of the National Anthem, and a huge American flag skied down the mountain by 10 Appalachian Ski Patrollers while a bagpiper played Amazing Grace, welcomed and honored the Wounded Warriors attending. They also enjoyed a catered BBQ dinner with live music at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock. The next Heroes On The Mountain event is tentatively scheduled for Feb 28 – Mar 1, 2025. support.woundedwarriorproject.org

W.A.M.Y. – Recognizing 60 Years of Community Action!

W.A.M.Y. Community Action is celebrating a major milestone—60 years of serving the Watauga-Avery-MitchellYancey region! W.A.M.Y.’s mission is to break the cycle of poverty by partnering with families and communities to provide the disadvantaged the support and tools they need to become selfsufficient.

They invite you to attend their Annual Event, Denim & Diamonds, on Thursday, May 23, 6-10 p.m in Banner Elk, NC. Enjoy music and dancing by Mohr Fun Entertainment, a live auction hosted by Jesse Miller, and award-winning food from Gadabouts Catering. Visit WAMYcommunityAction.org.

Spring is for the Birds!

With the spring season upon us, it’s time to think about our bird neighbors and some simple ways in which we can support them! As you begin to plant trees and shrubs this spring, consider planting natives. One non-native shrub to avoid planting is Nandina (Nandina domestica, a.k.a. sacred bamboo or heavenly bamboo), a commonly cultivated, ornamental shrub native to China and Japan. Nandina berries are known to be toxic to certain species of birds, including cedar waxwings (Bombycilla cedrorum, pictured above).

In spring we also have more weddings and graduations. If your celebration includes balloons, please do not release them into the air. Once the balloons land, birds (and other animals) can become entangled in the strings. Downed balloons or balloon fragments are also often ingested by some wild animals who mistake the balloons as an edible food source. Simply put, releasing balloons can cause injury and death to birds.

Special Home Project Underway in Junaluska

Watauga Community Housing Trust (WCHT) works to preserve and develop permanently affordable housing. The organization was formed by volunteers in Fall 2021, brought together by the sharp increase in local housing costs. In summer 2023, WCHT’s all-volunteer team successfully raised more than $50,000 to acquire its first home parcel in the Junaluska neighborhood near downtown

Boone. In a continuing effort to raise funds to complete the project, WCHT recently got a big boost from Mast General Store, who has been matching donations up to $25,000. Follow the project’s progress and consider a contribution—visit wataugacommunityhousingtrust.org.

Power of the Purse Returns

On June 27, the Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge will hold its annual Power of the Purse luncheon. The Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge (WFBR) is a collective giving organization formed and sustained by a group of women philanthropists striving to make a positive impact on the lives of women and girls in Ashe, Avery, and Watauga counties. WFBR believes all women have the right to equality, safety, opportunity, and selfdetermination in every aspect of their lives. The group is dedicated to providing financial support to aligned nonprofits; hosting educational workshops and seminars; bringing in renowned speakers at the Power of the Purse luncheon; and celebrating Women Events. “Together, we can build a brighter and more equitable future.” This year’s event will run from 10:45 a.m.-2 p.m. womensfundoftheblueridge.org

Bicyclists, Save the Date!

Online registration is currently open for the popular event, Blue Ridge Brutal. This year’s event is scheduled for August 17. The Blue Ridge Brutal Bike Ride takes serious riders through some of the most beautiful scenery in North Carolina. Routes include 100, 70, 50 or 25 miles,

and the start and finish point for all rides is the Ashe Civic Center in West Jefferson, NC. Blue Ridge Brutal’s proceeds benefit the group’s scholarship fund for graduating seniors. More information can be found at blueridgebrutal.org and on the event’s Facebook page.

Be a Mentor with Western Youth Network

Western Youth Network (WYN) believes that when people feel respected, it provides space for them to thrive. WYN is committed to providing a safe space for all, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity, ability, and experience. The organization’s biggest volunteer needs are for on-going commitments from adults to work directly with the youth they serve in their CommunityBased and School-Based Mentoring Programs. According to WYN, stable relationships with nurturing adults help children to heal from trauma and build resilience to overcome adversity. You can make a difference by mentoring. Learn more at westernyouthnetwork.org or call 828-387-7124.

New Joint County Animal Shelter Underway

Plans are currently underway for a new joint county animal shelter between Mitchell and Avery counties. This joint shelter will help both counties continue their mission to help our community respond humanely to the many needs of the animals, and will also aim to support Mayland’s Veterinary Assisting program. The joint shelter will be located on the Mayland Community College Campus in Spruce Pine, NC, and the target date for completion is summer 2025. The Avery Humane Society states, ”With the launch of the new shelter our hope is to extend our collective reach and make an even greater impact on the lives of animals in our communities.” averyhumane.org

See What’s New at The Museum of Ashe County History

The Museum of Ashe County History, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the historic 1904 Ashe County Courthouse building, and serves as a county heritage museum open to visitors of all ages. From now until the end of the year, the museum will be open MondaySaturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exhibits include the Ashe County Victory Garden, Moonshine & Music, Ore Knob Mine, Virginia Creeper, Veterans Hall of Honor, and Local Furniture, to name a few.

The Museum of Ashe County History was one of just 34 organizations across the state of NC to recently receive a preservation grant ($12,500) from the Marion Stedman Covington Foundation. Take a virtual tour at ashehistory.org, and get up-to-date event information at their Facebook page.

Protect Nighttime Pollinators

When we think of pollinators, we often think of bees and butterflies, some of the many flying insects we see during the day. But while we sleep, many species of moths are busy doing the important work of pollination as well. According the NC Wildlife Federation, “moths as a whole are more prolific pollinators than their daytime counterparts. Some flowers emit their most pungent aromas at night, drawing these nocturnal pollinators to their nectar.” As nocturnal species, moths are extremely sensitive to light, and artificial light sources pose serious dangers to moths. Where possible, remember to turn off all outdoor lights at night. Learn more at ncwf.org/blog/lesser-known-pollinators/.

Don’t miss out on Free Health Insurance

Beginning December 1, 2023, Medicaid is expanding to help you get the coverage you need.

Most people can get health care coverage through Medicaid if they meet certain criteria. If you were eligible before, you still are. For questions about your Medicaid eligibility or to apply for Medicaid:

ePASS epass.nc.gov

Paper application ncgov.servicenowservices.com

Call your local DSS office

Watauga (828) 265-8100

Ashe (336) 246-5719

Avery (828) 733-8230

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In person at your local DSS office

Watauga County DSS 132 Poplar Grove Connector, Suite C Boone, NC 28607

Ashe County DSS 150 Government Circle, Suite 1400 Jefferson, NC 28640

Avery County DSS 358 Beech Street Newland, NC 28657

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Prune:

To cut off branches from a tree, bush, or plant, especially so that it will grow better in the future.

To reduce something by removing things that are not necessary.

—Cambridge Dictionary

Seems odd that by taking away, we can expect more. But this is precisely the result of effective pruning. Remove the old, the dead and dying, and this makes room for new growth. Cut back the good to birth the best.

Two types of pruning opportunities are presented to you this season: The old, the dying things that are sapping away your energy; The good, the “fruitful” things that would produce more if refined.

Consider the following categories in your life as you ponder the opportunity for pruning:

Community Relationships

Help make a patient care unit in the High Country a reality with the YourChange app!

l Download the YourChange app

l Securely link your credit or debit card

l Choose AMOREM

Each time you make a purchase, YourChange automatically rounds up your spare change and donates those funds to AMOREM!

New name. New team. New ways to

serve you.

New name!

The name Harmony Center for Women has transitioned to Women’s Health to better reflect the full array of services that we provide to the women in the High Country.

New team!

Women’s Health is fortunate to have providers whose expertise and training in obstetrics and gynecology is matched by their compassion for women and dedication to their patients.

New ways to serve you!

UNC Health Appalachian is now using an electronic medical record system called My UNC Chart. My UNC Chart allows you access to your UNC Health care team and your medical records all in one, secure, easy-to-use online portal.

828-268-8970

381 Deerfield Road, Boone apprhs.org/harmony

For more information about Women’s Health, use this QR code or visit apprhs.org/harmony

Dr. Ron Stanley describes the first reaction of visitors to Arborcrest Gardens as “jaw dropping.” Understandably, as seeing is the only way to believe such a magical place exists just off King Street in downtown Boone. Standing at the precipice of 45-degree sloping hills, the scenery commands you to gaze over the garden before immersing yourself in it. As far as the eye can see are sculpted trees, conifers and shrubs in variegated shades of yellow and green; sweeping seas of colorful cascading flowers; meandering gravel and paved paths crossing over bridges; flowering vines stretching across arbors; trees with whimsical faces; rare plants and even a banana tree.

Arborcrest Gardens—a 26-acre botanical research garden nestled at the foot of Howard’s Knob—has been a labor of love for Dr. Ron Stanley for 35 years. What began as a small vegetable garden in 1989 has grown into a colossal collection of thousands of different species and cultivars of trees, shrubs, perennials, ground covers and bulbs, as well as a large vegetable/fruit test garden and greenhouse.

“I started out as a backyard gardener like everyone else. I had no idea it was going to turn into this!” exclaims Dr. Stanley. His eyes light up just talking about it. “I like to collect—I’ve always been a collector. I have an insect collection, a stamp collection, a coin collection, and now a plant collection!”

Dr. Stanley’s delight in gardening was nurtured by his grandmother at a young age. “I grew up in Kernersville, and we lived next to my grandmother. When I was six years old she gave me a small piece of land and I

Where Science and Beauty Collide

planted radishes, beets, and corn, and when it grew I was thinking ‘this is a miracle!’ It imprinted on me and never got out of my system. As a [high school] senior, when everyone else was out cruising around, I was growing pumpkins!”

Shortly after moving to Boone Dr. Stanley and his wife, Cheryl, purchased a fiveacre tract from James Councill, descendant of a large landowner when Watauga County was simply known as Councill’s Store. The Stanleys built their present home in 1979 and soon began gardening and landscaping the grounds surrounding their property. In 1985, when the remainder of Mr. Councill’s land was auctioned, the Stanleys purchased additional tracts, expanding their property to 50 acres.

Paying homage to his grandmother, Dr. Stanley first implemented vegetables. “Vegetable gardening is the hardest form of gardening there is—there is a long learning curve,” he explains. “This is a test garden. In fact the official name is Arborcrest Gardens—‘Ornamental Evaluation and Test Garden.’” Testing close to 100 varieties of tomatoes to find which grow best in the mountains was one of his earliest endeavors. “One thing we want to do at Arborcrest is to create a brochure of the best vegetable varieties that we have tested over the past 35 years to grow in your own garden.”

A book Dr. Stanley found most helpful during this venture was “Crockett’s Victory Garden,” by James Underwood

Crockett—the first host on the PBS show, “The Victory Garden,” produced by WGBH in Boston. “That book was my Bible!” laughs Stanley.

The raised beds at Arborcrest are so meticulous that they were featured on “Victory Garden” in 1984, after a picture of the gardens was submitted in a national contest. Arborcrest was chosen as one of the six most impressive gardens nationwide. “We want to be more educational and scientific about our research, but yet we do attract a number of people who just love beautiful gardens—and that’s okay, too!”

“Beautiful” may be an understatement when describing the visual impression alone. Much of the garden began as an inspiration from the Stanleys’ family trips to Disney World. “When we visited there, I noticed their landscape designs. The plants were in big sweeps, overlapping, curving and meandering around,” says Stanley. Like Disney, Arborcrest creates immersive environments lending to a story of nature. Visitors aren’t the only spectators that benefit from the array of flowering vegetation. Many birds, bees and rabbits find an unending food source. There is even a fox, fondly named Rhonda, that can be spotted near her den.

The multi-ecosystems that exist in the garden are responsible for plants rarely seen in the High Country. “We also like growing rare, endangered and extinct plants and trees. We have 10 specimens on the

By Julie Farthing

property of a tree that’s extinct in the world, called the Franklina or Ben Franklin Tree. It was spotted in Georgia over 200 years ago and is no longer found in the wild. We have the Gray’s lily and a number of other plants that are endangered,” says Dr. Stanley. “Of 15,364 total cultivars tested, 7,698 are found in our garden today.”

Four years ago, Dr. Stanley realized the garden was just too glorious to keep to himself. Now, tours are offered each Friday for those wanting to experience this spectacular secret garden. Walking tours are available to those who prefer to walk the 2.5 miles of gravel and paved trails, or experience a riding educational tour conducted via electric shuttles. Learn about some of the most fascinating species—including what’s in bloom and rare specimens.

Arborcrest is looking ahead to the next 35 years as they continue to grow as a sustainable,self-sufficient 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational botanical garden. Since they do not charge admission for tours, they rely fully on donations and grants. Come see what’s blooming at Arborcrest!

For information on booking a garden tour and how you can donate, visit arborcrestgardens.org.

Ron and Cheryl Stanley in 1981

Dr. Stanley teaching young gardeners how to shuck corn

Local Food As Medicine

An Initiative of Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture

By Tamara S. Randolph

What if you lived 30 miles from the nearest grocery store and had limited access to reliable transportation? What if your budget was stretched so thin that a regular supply of fresh, nutritious food was seemingly beyond your grasp?

These are just some of the barriers to food access for thousands of people in our area. In fact, roughly 13 percent*, or nearly one in eight people in the High Country, are food insecure, despite the deep agricultural roots in our region and the abundance of locally produced food.

“In rural areas, transportation is a real challenge,” says Amanda Hege, Director of Dietetic Internship at Appalachian State University. She reflects back to the first years of COVID as a poignant example of the obstacles people sometimes face. “Individuals no longer had access to ride sharing, people were losing jobs, and kids were not getting food at school—food insecurity grew.”

Given the problems of access to quality food for so many people in the High Country, Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture (BRWIA) recently introduced Local Food as Medicine (LocalFAM), a grantfunded food access program that partners with community organizations, such as food pantries, so that they can provide members of their community with fresh, nutritious food supplied by local farmers and producers. BRWIA offers this food at no cost to the participating organizations,

who in turn provide it at no cost to the people they serve. To add to this win-winwin scenario, the farmers and producers are paid full retail price for their products.

“Food Access” Organizations: A Closer Look

In the seven-county region served by LocalFAM (Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watauga, Wilkes, Yancey and Mitchell), a growing list of not-for-profit community groups have taken on the mission to feed the community—organizations like the Ashe Food Pantry, Blowing Rock Cares, Casting Bread, Feeding Avery Families, Hunger & Health Coalition, and Hospitality House of Northwest NC.

Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, itself a 501(c)3 non-profit, strives to match the needs of these organizations with high quality food grown right here in our mountains and foothills. Just last year, the LocalFAM program distributed over 2,080 boxes of healthy, fresh food to 13 partner organizations in the High Country, equating to nearly 40,000 pounds of nutritious food on our neighbors’ tables.

“We get about 10 percent of our fresh produce from Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture,” says Dick Larson, co-director at Feeding Avery Families. “And it’s some of the freshest we get.” He says that the food arrives to them “having come straight from the ground, maybe two days earlier, packaged and delivered within a couple of days.

Some produce we receive from our main food suppliers has been out of the ground for much longer.” He notes that when the produce is fresh, nothing goes to waste. “All of what we receive from BRWIA goes directly to our neighbors.”

Christy at Blowing Rock Cares adds, “I have had clients who are very happy to receive fresh produce. Some of them comment on how this is good for their diet and they just enjoy the freshness…the fresh produce is very much appreciated.”

Why Food Is Medicine

We know that good food is nourishing for both body and soul. When that food is locally sourced, it not only lasts longer, people (and especially children) are more likely to eat it because of that freshness.

“LocalFAM is built on the philosophy that everyone has a right to access healthy food, and that nutritious food can serve as medicine, particularly for treating and preventing many of the chronic illnesses that people experiencing food insecurity are at high risk for,” says Sam Springs, BRWIA’s LocalFAM Coordinator. She explains that the positive effects of high quality food on social and mental health as well as physical health, are well documented. “This idea of using food as a form of preventative care has gained traction within the medical community in recent years, and we are excited to see this kind of holistic thinking continue to gain support.”

Volunteer packing food for the LocalFAM program

A typical summer LocalFAM share for a neighbor

In early March, BRWIA hosted their second annual Local Food as Medicine Summit, presented by the Center for Appalachian Studies at App State. The Summit brought together food access organizations, farmers, educators and government agencies, among others, to discuss food insecurity in the High Country and brainstorm real solutions. Some of the most innovative efforts discussed include food box customization for neighbors with specific health needs; on-site demonstration kitchens, culinary training, and distribution of healthy recipes at food pantries; food preservation workshops; mobile pantries; health screenings; and nutrition education stations. According to Summit speaker Lanae Hood, Policy Associate at the Center for Science in the Public Interest and co-founder of the Grace Kitchen program in Alleghany County, “Ninety-two percent of recipients were interested in learning more about nutrition and healthy food.”

How Local Farmers Benefit

Through their LocalFAM program, BRWIA is not just helping to improve the wellness of neighbors in need, they’re supporting our local farmers. In 2023, 63 farmers and producers sold a portion of their harvest, including vegetables, fruit, meat and eggs, to support the LocalFAM program. With producers being paid full retail price for their products, they were

able to earn more than $110,000 in revenue.

Casey Jordaan, producer and owner of Mountainwise Farm, shares, “We have been so lucky and grateful to be in the High Country community and have access to [BRWIA] and grants.” Jordaan, who was also a panel speaker at the Summit, says that she would like to see “more education around the value of locally grown food,” for example how long local food lasts. “The food you’re buying from your local farms lasts two weeks versus a few days.” She also says that careful soil care helps make food even more nutritious. Another High Country farmer shares, “I like how LocalFAM expands food access to people who need it… it’s also helpful that we don’t have to discount prices to help the community.”

Blue Ridge Women In Agriculture and a growing network of food access advocates remain focused on making sure that every neighbor in need has access to a convenient and consistent source of high quality food. Members of the greater High Country community can help by supporting these organizations through donations and volunteering—when we all work together, we can tackle the complex problem of food insecurity in the High Country.

*feedingamerica.org

About Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture

Formed in 2003, BRWIA is a womenled organization that builds an equitable, sustainable High Country food system by supporting producers and cultivating community connections that educate, inspire, and increase the demand for local food. BRWIA programs include: High Country Food Hub, King Street Farmers’ Market & Boone’s Winter Farmers’ Market, Double Up Food Bucks, Blue Ridge Collaborative Regional Alliances for Farmer Training (CRAFT), and Local Food as Medicine (LocalFAM). brwia.org

LocalFAM partner Samaritan Kitchen of Wilkes receiving fresh food Fresh produce from local farmers BRWIA staff distributing food to Ashe Food Pantry

On ‘every’

street corner

Biscuits Like Mama Made

By Gail Greco

If you’ve never used a mason jar as a drinking glass

Or to eat milk and bread from Or to catch fireflies in Or to cut homemade biscuits with You ain’t country

– from You Ain’t Country by Patricia Neely-Dorsey, 2012

Abiscuit

I ate recently was so giddy-up good—crisp, tender, cushy—that it was poetic, but since it wasn’t cut with a Mason jar, tsk-tsk, scolds this poem, I’m zero-forfour. I ‘ain’t country.’ How ‘bout you?

Growing up in a city, I did catch fireflies (score one) but in any old jar (point lost), unaware of John L. Mason’s (1858 patented) tin-lidded glass canning jars. Summer’s almost here when lightning bugs twinkle their flat bottoms in courtship; I’ll watch, but won’t touch (score two). So, where do I stand?

Points and poetry aside, on ‘every’ street corner. Living now in a so-called “High” country, the score’s leveled; I am country! While punching out biscuits via the glass rim of a preserving jar is a throwback to old-timey resourcefulness, or a saving grace when it’s what’s handy—no matter how you cut it—nothing holds a firefly’s candle to our abundant mountain-high biscuits!

“It’s a biscuit revolution,” cheers Zach Anderson of Betty’s Biscuits, the newest biscuiteria opening in western North Carolina and statewide.

The Biscuiterias

American biscuits are not the flat, dry crackers the British call biscuits. “Scones are their biscuits,” clarifies tea-time master Anne Whitton-Bolyea, who serves them with her in-house blended teas at Appalachian Apothekary and Tea Room (Foscoe).

Nation’s Restaurant News in 2016 reported biscuits as the fastest-growing menu item. Ever see the drive-thru lines wrapping the corner of Winklers Creek Road and 321 in Boone on weekends for Bojangles’ Biscuit Meals? Same indoors at Williams Deli and Bakery (Banner Elk) “for city visitors wanting to taste the country. Our biscuits do it!” booms Josh Williams.

Fresh Biscuits, a sign posted at Hellbender’s (Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock), beckons passersby with a biscuit-dedicated menu, making the restaurant/inn a first to offer Biscuits (breakfast) as its own serving time, like “Lunch” or “Dinner.”

With so many dedicated biscuit eateries, let’s update their name. I’m calling them biscuiterias (Anderson and others approved). Vicious Biscuit (corner of Blowing Rock Road /Hwy 321 and Highland Drive) is one,

opened in 2023. The South Carolina family business chose Boone as its sixth location. “Biscuits are entertainment,” Vicious espouses, with its amusing sandwiches: Animal Farm, Flame Thrower, Silence of the Hams

Loaded Biscuits food truck has its own long lines straddling the corner of Watauga County Farmers’ Market at Horn in the West Drive every Saturday, with baked-in cheeses, hence loaded biscuits, that better redefines all biscuit sandwiches. Owner Bryan Kossol’s on to something; copyright the name? Last year he added Everybody’s Bruncheon Club (Howard Street, Boone) to his biscuit domain with chicken-in-biscuit combos including: the Big Mother Clucker (eggs, sausage, cheese); The Family Van (onion-jam and cheese); and Cowboy Killer (candied bacon, jalapenos, pimento cheese)!

Wheels Up!

Betty’s Makes Landfall on King

Riding round town in their food truck, vending scratch-made biscuits from a window on wheels, demand for Betty’s Biscuits quickly outpaced space. Owner Tina Houston has transitioned Betty’s—named after her grandmother—into a cozy neighborhood cafe located near the life-sized bronze of Doc Watson flat-picking his guitar on the corner of King and Depot Streets, Boone. Houston (also owner of Reid’s Cafe & Catering and

Biscuiteer Zach Anderson

Betty’s Biscuits

The Beacon) painstakingly renovated the historic motor garage abutting Mast General Store.

Breakfast and lunch “with a buzz” categorizes the new menu with local ingredients right down to the pottery tableware. Coffee drinks, breakfast cocktails—even sandwiches—may get you humming! The Yo Nanna, a biscuit French toast doused in banana vanilla sorghum and hazelnut chocolate sauce, will awaken you, provided the Pecky biscuit with yard-egg, cheese, and pork belly doesn’t already have you at first oink! Anderson expects his fave, the sausage/strawberry preserves Slam Jam, to be a slam-dunk again, as it was on the food truck where he worked while studying at App State, graduating in 2018. But, his degree in insurance risk management didn’t get a rise out of him as do his flaky biscuits, so he’s at Betty’s full-swing.

“So, um, that means you’re a baker now?”

“Professional biscuit chef,” corrects Anderson.

“Ah,” I relay, “a biscuiteer!” And he smiles.

We eat, pray, love our way through them …

“Biscuits make the world a better place,” preaches Anderson. They don’t have evil intentions.” Maybe heavenly ones? Some bakers mindfully set intentions when readying biscuits. Meditating? Praying for a yummy

outcome? Or, with added leavening agents, feathering dough into tulle as if the wings of so-called Angel Biscuits?

Some claim biscuits are art; others science. But biscuits are stronger than either—a cornerstone of Southern cuisine, making us wanna BOS (burst out singing). Legendary jazz vocalist Nina Simone did exactly that, cutting biscuits with her mother, “using an empty jam jar, singing all the while,” reads her 1992 autobiography, and Missing the hot biscuits...she croons lyrically in I’m Going Back Home, singing about the three-room house in Tryon, NC, where she grew up with her parents and seven siblings.

Amy Galloway, professor of eating behaviors at App State’s Psychology Department studies how some foods (biscuits included) do remind us of mama or grandma’s home kitchen, and so satisfy a longing while promoting well-being. “Biscuits have peoples’ hearts. Fluffy little pillows of happiness, leaving you speechless but singing,” chimes Carol Sposato, manager at Fred’s General Mercantile. Breaded pork biscuits with house-made gravy were just introduced at the general store’s Backside Deli “made on our corner of the world,” she boasts, of their 5,506-foot location in Beech Mountain.

Loftiness is a homemade biscuit hallmark, achieved with melting butter in steamy air pockets. At home, Bryan Kossol may use a

jar rim, “or a pint glass,” he says, “and biscuits will be totally tasty, but not as pouffy as with a metal cutter’s straight edges.” Still, Mason jars and biscuits are symbiotic, so to the poem’s ‘country’ pondering, a fun thought: use canning-jar shaped cookie cutters to make biscuits!

Moving to the High Country brought me under the spell of homemade-style biscuits again, beginning with Ross Aglialoro’s (eightpointfive) chive-pimentos—and this spring, he’s making them with basil and Buttercup cheese from English Farmstead Cheese (Marion).

“Our ancestors gave us the mighty biscuit, but family recipe or not, as long as pride’s baked in, it’s a beautiful thing,” beams Kossol. He and his fellow millennial biscuiteers are the corner of the local biscuit market; their talents and passions edging biscuits “into the artisanal-breads category,” prophesizes Aglialoro. He’s perfecting focaccia, a reassurance that while we can never bite off more biscuits than we can chew, the next bread tradition might be right around the corner!

Other local, homey spots serving biscuits: Melanie’s (tree-shaded picnic tables, corner of King and Depot Streets); Dan’l Boone Inn (historic home, corner of Hardin and King Streets).

A Loaded Biscuit Sandwich Hellbender’s

A Vicious Biscuit Ross Aglialoro’s Chai Pimento

Purchase fine coffee, specialty drinks, breakfast, lunch, and dessert today to help support the children of Crossnore.

Spring Farmers’ Markets

Our local Farmers’ Markets are open for business! Pick up everything from vegetable starts, to fresh seasonal vegetables, to meats and cheeses, to fresh flowers and crafts. This convenient directory will help you find a market near you—enjoy the best of what our region has to offer! Please be sure to confirm dates/times with your markets of choice prior to scheduling a trip.

Abingdon Farmers Market

Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m., and Tuesdays 3–6 p.m.

April–September

The corner of Remsburg Dr. and

Cummings St. in downtown Abingdon, VA

Alleghany Farmers Market

Saturdays 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

May–October

Crouse Park in downtown Sparta, NC

Ashe County Farmers Market

Saturdays 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

April–October

108 Backstreet, West Jefferson, NC

Avery County Farmers’ Market

Thursdays 3–6 p.m.

Through mid-October

In front of the Historic Banner Elk School, 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC

Beech Mountain Farmers’ Market

First Fridays 2–6 p.m.

June–October

In the public parking lot across from Fred’s General Mercantile, Beech Mountain, NC

Blowing Rock Farmers’ Market

Thursdays 2–6 p.m.

May 16–October

370 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock, NC

Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture’s

King Street Market

Tuesdays 3:30–6:30 p.m.

May–October

126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC

Damascus Farmers Market  Saturdays, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

May–October

At Laurel Creek Park, 127 W Imboden St., Damascus, VA

Johnson County Farmers’ Market

Saturdays 9 a.m.–Noon

May–October

Ralph Stout Park in Mountain City, TN

Lansing Park Farmers’ Market

Fridays 1–6 p.m.

Through October

Lansing Creeper Trail Park, 114 S Big Horse Creek Rd, Lansing, NC

Morganton Farmers’ Markets

Saturdays 8 a.m.–Noon

May–October

300 Beach St., Morganton, NC

Wednesday Mini Market, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

May–October

111 North Green St., Morganton, NC

Watauga County Farmers’ Market

Celebrating its 50th Anniversary!

Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

April–November

591 Horn in the West Dr, Boone, NC

Wilkes County Farmers’ Market

Saturdays 7:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., April 20–

September

Tuesdays 3:30–6 p.m., June–September

Yadkin Valley Marketplace in downtown N. Wilkesboro, NC

High Country Food Hub, operated by Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture (BRWIA)

A year-round online farmers’ market where you can order fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, artisan foods, cut flowers, body care products, and plants online and pick them up at one of seven convenient locations throughout Ashe, Avery, and Watauga counties.

Top, L to R: Abingdon Farmers Market, Alleghany Farmers Market, Ashe Co. Farmers Market, Avery Co. Farmers Market | Bottom, L to R: Johnson Co. Farmers Market, BRWIA King Street Market | Watauga Co. Farmers Market, Damascus Farmers Market | Inset: Lansing Park Farmers Market

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Spring

A SHOWCASE OF SOME OF OUR FAVORITES!

n Banner Elk Café, The Lodge and The Tavern

324 Shawneehaw Ave S Hwy 184

Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.4040

bannerelkcafe.com

“The place to BE in downtown Banner Elk. Serving pastas, salads, burgers, pizza, breakfast, coffee, fresh baked goods and more. Practically everything you need in one location.”

n Casa Rustica

1348 NC-105

Boone, NC 28607

828.262.5128

casarustica1981.com

“From savory pasta dishes to decadent desserts, we’ve got everything to make your heart sing.”

n Bayou Smokehouse & Grill Restaurant

130 Main Street East, Village Shops

Banner Elk, NC  28604

828.898.8952

Bayoubannerelk.com

“The Bayou Smokehouse & Grill restaurant offers authentic Texas and Louisiana cuisine transported to the High Country. Indulging in southern charm, one plate at a time.”

n Cobo Sushi Bistro and Bar

161 W Howard Street Boone, NC 28607

828.386.1201

cobosushi.com

“Spice up your dinner plans with this delicious combination: White Dragon Roll and Scallop Tataki Sashimi.”

n Bistro Roca

143 Wonderland Trail Blowing Rock, NC 28605

828.295.4008 bistroroca.com

“Bistro Roca serves inventive American Bistro cuisine. Try the Waldorf Wedge—Apricot, Apples, Bleu Cheese Crumbles, Applewood Smoked Bacon, and Candied Walnuts with Port & Bleu Cheese Dressing.”

n The Best Cellar

203 Sunset Drive

Blowing Rock, NC 28605

828.295.3466

ragged-gardens.com/best-cellar-restaurant

“Bone-In Pork Chop finished with roasted red pepper purée and Pepper jack cream; topped with crispy fried onion strings.”

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

Spring

n Gideon Ridge

202 Gideon Ridge Rd

Blowing Rock, NC 28605

828.295.3644

gideonridge.com

“Simply said, Dinner is served. “

n Gamekeeper Restaurant

3005 Shulls Mill Rd

Boone, NC 28607

828.963.7400

gamekeeper-nc.com

“The Gamekeeper features a selection of perfectly prepared game, fish and vegetarian selections using humanely farm-raised meats, and locally grown organic produce.”

n Jack’s 128 Pecan

128 Pecan St SE

Abingdon, VA 24210

276.698.3159

128pecan.com

“Sweet and Spicy Chicken and Waffles with Sesame Slaw…it’s what’s for lunch. Local, quirky, fun little restaurant with simple good food and friendly professional service.”

n Lost Province Brewing Company

130 N Depot Street

Boone, NC 28607

828.265.3506

lostprovince.com

“The original Lost Province Brewing Company is located on Depot Street in downtown Boone. This location is a brewery and a full-service restaurant committed to local food.”

n Fred’s Backside Deli

501 Beech Mountain Pkwy

Beech Mountain, NC 28604

828.387.4838

fredsgeneral.com

“Fred’s Backside Deli serves breakfasts, sandwiches, homemade soups and salads, daily specials, beverages, including beer and wine, and freshly made desserts.”

n Pedalin’ Pig

4235 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk 28604

2968-A Hwy 105, Boone NC 28607

8304 Valley Blvd, Blowing Rock NC 28605

Banner Elk: 828.898.7500

Boone: 828.355.9559

Blowing Rock: 828.295.3651

thepedalinpig.com

“Enjoy some wings and a beverage by visiting our restaurants in Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and Boone!”

RESTAURANT GUIDE

n Reid’s Cafe & Catering

4004 NC-105 Suite #8

Sugar Mountain, NC 28604

828.898.9200

reidscafeandcatering.com

“Seasonal lunch & dinner menus and handcrafted cocktails at the base of Grandfather Mountain.”

n Betty’s Biscuits

642 W. King St Boone, NC 28607

bettysbiscuits.com

“Scratch-made biscuits, local ingredients & gourmet beverages in Downtown Boone.”

FINE FOOD, FRIENDLY SERVICE, GREAT ATMOSPHERE— YOU’LL FIND IT ALL AT OUR

n Stick Boy Kitchen

211 Boone Heights Dr

Boone, NC 28607

828.265.4141

stickboybread.com/kitchen

“At Stick Boy Kitchen we use all-natural meats on all our sandwiches. All of our dressings, spreads, cream cheeses, hummus, and other sides are made from scratch using quality ingredients. Rest assured, when we make food at the ‘Kitchen’ it’s just like you would make food at home in your kitchen.”

n Primo

140 Azalea Cir SE

Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.5214

bannerelkvillage.com/primo/

“Dive into a culinary journey at Primo, where every course is a masterpiece on its own.

Upscale eclectic gourmet Italian Bistro is a combination of visual and culinary celebration.”

n Sorrento’s Italian Bistro

140 Azalea Cir SE

Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.5214

bannerelkvillage.com/sorrentos-italian-bistro/

“Indulging in a plate of Tortellini Sorrentos is like taking a delicious trip to Italy without leaving your seat.”

n The Beacon Butcher Bar

125 Graduate Lane, NC-105 S Boone, NC 28607

828.865.0087

boonebeacon.com

“Live music & farm to table comfort food in the heart of Boone.”

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

Spring

n Stonewalls

344 Shawneehaw Ave S

Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.5550

stonewallsrestaurant.com

“Stonewalls offers the finest cuts of beef found in prime rib, sirloin, rib eye, New York Strip and Filet Mignon. Our chicken & ribs are second to none and we have a great lineup of seafood.”

n Williams Deli & Bakery

101 High Country Square #28

Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.2300

williamsdeliandbakery.com

“Known for our delicious sandwiches and delectable desserts, Williams Deli & Bakery is what helps make Banner Elk so great.”

n Timberlake’s Restaurant and Headwaters Pub

185 Chetola Lake Dr

Blowing Rock, NC 28605

828.295.5505

chetola.com/dining-2

“Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort features fine dining with décor inspired by artist Bob Timberlake.”

n Coyote Kitchen & Lost Cantina

200 Southgate Dr

Boone, NC 28607

828.265.4041

coyotekitchen.com

“Lost Province’s new sister restaurant, Coyote Kitchen & Lost Province Taproom, offers Southwest & Caribbean soul food on the south side of Boone. We strive to provide vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy friendly options!”

n The Italian Restaurant

2855 Linville Falls Hwy

Pineola, NC 28662

828.733.1401

theitalianrestaurantnc.com

“

The Italian style of cooking is simply great food to be enjoyed and shared with family and friends.”

n Chef’s Table

140 Azalea Cir SE

Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.1940

bannerelkvillage.com/chefs-table

“A night out in downtown Banner Elk means indulging in one of our meals at Chef’s Table. Satisfy your taste buds with our Filet Mignon served with mashed potatoes, spinach topped with crispy onions, and drizzled with demiglace.”

n Carolina BBQ

500 Pineola Street

Newland, NC 28657

828.737.0700

carolinabbqnewland.com

“We specialize in pork barbecue, chicken, and ribs. With plenty of homemade sides, our menu accommodates anyone who’s hungry for excellent southern food.”

And…

Enjoy these restaurants in our area:

Highlander’s Grill & Tavern

4527 Tynecastle Hwy

Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.9613 / highlandersbannerelk.com

Divide Tavern at The Green Park Inn

9239 Valley Blvd

Blowing Rock, NC 28605

828.414.9230 / greenparkinn.com

Beech Mountain Brewing Co

1007 Beech Mountain Parkway

Beech Mountain, NC 28604

828.387.2011 / beechmountainbrewingco.com

F.A.R.M. Cafe

617 W King St

Boone, NC 28607

828.386.1000 / farmcafe.org

Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria

402 Beech Mountain Parkway

Beech Mountain, NC 28604

828.387.4209 / famousbrickoven.com

From CML’s Kitchen

Dry Rubbed Salmon and Spring Orzo with a Lemon Vinaigrette

INGREDIENTS

ORZO

1 ½ cups orzo

1 TBSP salt

1 lb asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces

6 oz peas

½ cup green onion (sliced)

¼ cup parsley (chopped)

¼ cup mint (chopped)

¼ cup pistachios

½ cup crumbled feta

LEMON VINAIGRETTE

¼ cup olive oil

1 garlic clove (minced)

4 TBSP fresh lemon juice

1 tsp lemon zest

1 TBSP honey

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

SALMON

2 lbs salmon, cut into 4 portions

1 TBSP olive oil

2 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

½ tsp garlic powder

Perfect for a Spring Evening

2 tsp aji amarillo powder (found at Spice and Tea Exchange)

2 tsp brown sugar

DIRECTIONS:

ORZO

n Whisk together lemon vinaigrette ingredients to combine and set aside.

n Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the salt. Add the orzo to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, then add the asparagus and peas and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the orzo and vegetables are tender. Drain.

n Transfer orzo and vegetables to a large bowl, add green onion, parsley, and mint. Pour dressing over and toss to combine.

n Top with pistachios and feta, season with salt and pepper to taste if needed.

SALMON

n Mix salt, pepper, garlic, aji amarillo and brown sugar to combine.

n Rub salmon evenly with spices.

n Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon, without moving, skin side up, for 5 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets and continue cooking for about 4-5 more minutes until cooked to your liking.

Recipes by Meagan Goheen

Photos by Meagan Goheen

Lemon Mascarpone Mousse with Strawberry Sauce Parfait

INGREDIENTS

LEMON MASCARPONE MOUSSE

8 oz Mascarpone

1 cup heavy cream

3 TBSP powdered sugar

1 TBSP lemon zest

3 TBSP fresh lemon juice 2 tsp vanilla extract

STRAWBERRY SAUCE

1 lb of strawberries, (quartered) 1/3 cup sugar

1 TBSP fresh lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

LEMON MOUSSE

n In a large bowl or stand mixer whip the cream until it has stiff peaks.

n In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until combined and creamy.

n Fold the mascarpone mixture into the whipped cream until combined.

STRAWBERRY SAUCE

n Combine strawberries, sugar and lemon juice to a sauce pan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.

n Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool. Sauce will thicken while it chills.

n PUT THEM TOGETHER

Layer mousse and strawberry sauce in your favorite serving dish. Chill until ready to serve. Optional: Garnish with fresh strawberries, lemon zest, mint or your favorite lemon cookie.

“Cooking by the recipe a thousand times and more gives me this insight into language and its relation to living things.”

—Rebecca May Johnson Small Fires: An Epic in the Kitchen

Avery County’s

Dining Catering

The High Country’s Premier Steak & Seafood Restaurant

• Dinner nightly from 5pm

• Offering both indoor and outdoor dining

• Live music Friday & Saturday nights

• Private room available

• Locally owned and operated

• “Avery County Chamber Business of the Year”

828-898-5550

344 Shawneehaw Ave. South, Banner Elk stonewallsrestaurant.com

The High Country’s Best Choice for Event Catering

• Creativity, passion and culinary excellence

• Parties of all sizes

• In-home catering

• Fully insured and licensed

• Largest mobile kitchen in the High Country

828-898-5550

344 Shawneehaw Ave. South, Banner Elk stonewallsrestaurant.com

Lodging Event Venue

The High Country’s Best Vacation Rentals

• One main lodge and three cabins with mountain views

• 1-4 bedrooms available

• Event barn, outdoor pavilion, open field, meandering streams, and ponds all onsite

• Located in the heart of Sugar and Beech Mountains, with proximity to all High Country attractions

• Pet-friendly

828-898-3115

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com

The High Country’s Best Space for Gatherings

• Vacations, weddings, family reunions, church events, and business retreats

• Newly built barn with 1,700 sq. ft., and 18-ft. high ceilings

• Barn equipped with a complete catering kitchen

• Climate controlled barn

• 1,750 sq. ft. outdoor pavilion with fire pit

• Lodge and cabin rentals

• Fields, streams, and ponds

828-898-3115

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk thebarnatcornerstone.com

All ABC Permits

— Carry out available —

Intersection of Hwys 221 & 181

2855 Linville Falls Highway Pineola, NC

828-773-1401

TheItalianRestaurantNC.com

Sun 11am - 5pm Mon-Thurs 10:30am - 8pm

Fri 10:30am - 9pm

Saturday 10:30am - 8pm

828-737-0700

carolinabbqnewland.com

Experience Luxury in the High Country’s Original & Most Acclaimed Winery

Savor award-winning wine and pamper yourself at The Villa, a luxury B&B. Spend your days exploring the local golfing, fishing, and skiing. Or recharge with a spa treatment and a glass of wine in front of the magnificent stone fireplace.

A weekend getaway, corporate retreat, family vacation, engagements, elopements, rehearsal dinners, or special events...it’s the perfect place to relax, re-inspire, and rejuvenate – both inside and out. • Weddings

828.898.9090

www.BannerElkWinery.com

Come spend the day!

Amy Brown, CPA Certified Public Accountant 828.898.7607

Avery County Chamber of Commerce

828.898.5605 / www.averycounty.com

Creative Interiors by Darlene Parker 828.898.9636

Encore Travel

828.719.6955 www.encoretravelltc.com

Hero’s Axe House 828-898-4376 / www.herosaxehouse.com

Highlanders Grill & Tavern Open 7 Days a Week 828.898.9613

Peak Real Estate 828.898.1880 www.peakrealestatenc.com

Rhapsody in Cabinetry Design Studio for Kitchens, Baths, Closets & Flooring 828.406.4348

Salon Suites at Tynecastle

• SALON M 828.260.3791

Shooz & Shiraz

A Shoe & Wine Salon at The Dande Lion

Sky Mountain Nail Bar 828.783.9393

The Dande Lion

Ladies Apparel, Shoes, & Accessories 866.222.2050 and 828.898.3566

Truist Financial 828-292-9219 / www.Truist.com

Valle de Bravo Mexican Grill

valledebravomexicangrill.net 828.898.4949

Walgreens Pharmacy 828.898.8971

SPACE AVAILABLE! Please Call 828.898.6246

See the beauty. Taste the tradition. Feel at home. SUNSET DRIVE • BLOWING ROCK (One Block Off Main Street)

Restaurant: 828-295-3466

Serving Dinner

Inn: 828-295-9703

Music on the Lawn Fridays May–October

Ragged-Gardens.com

EXPERIENCE THE ALLURE OF WATAUGA LAKE AND BREATHTAKING VINEYARD VIEWS AT WATAUGA LAKE WINERY AND VILLA NOVE VINEYARDS.

grandfather.com

Folks come to Grandfather Mountain for all sorts of reasons — to get close to nature or simply get away from it all. But after a day on the mountain, and in the new interactive Wilson Center For Nature Discovery, everyone leaves inspired.