03/23 March Magazine

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Women’s Health Services in the High Country

AppFamily Medicine 148 Hwy 105 Extension, Suite 102 Boone, NC 28607 828-386-2222 apprhs.org/appfamily

Primary Care

Annual/breast exam/ pap smear

GYN minor/complex

Surgical Services

Low risk OB

High risk OB

Birth Control

Menopause

Emergency Services*

Beverly Womack, MD

Hudson McGinnis, DO

Erin Murphy, DO

John Cuningham, MD

Jeb Fox, MD

Lindsey Shapiro, DO

Caitlin Porter, DO

Connor Brunson, MD

Toria Knox, DO

Jessica Stevens, MD

Jason Karimy, MD

Dan Moore, MD

Anna Sparks, DO

Tiffany Warren, MD

Isaac Werner, MD

Harmony Center for Women 381 Deerfield Road Boone, NC 28607 828-268-8970 apprhs.org/harmony

Primary Care

Annual/breast exam/ pap smear

GYN minor/complex

Surgical Services

Low risk OB

High risk OB

Birth Control

Menopause

Emergency Services*

Sungji Chai, MD

April Greene, DNP, CNM

Carrington Pertalion, CNM

Nancy Griffith, FNP, CNM

Heather Jordan, CNM OBHG Physicians

Davant Medical Clinic 623 Chestnut Ridge Parkway Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-386-3350 apprhs.org/davantclinic

Primary Care

Annual/breast exam/ pap smear

GYN minor/complex

Surgical Services

Low risk OB

High risk OB

Birth Control

Menopause

Emergency Services*

Cecilia Grasinger, MD

Heidi Robertson, FNP

Baker Center for Primary Care 436 Hospital Drive, Suite 230 Linville, NC 28646 828-737-7711 apprhs.org/baker

Primary Care

Annual/breast exam/ pap smear

GYN minor/complex

Surgical Services

Low risk OB

High risk OB

Birth Control

Menopause

Emergency Services*

Heather Jordan, CNM

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105

En Plein Air

By Jan Todd

“There are no rules in plein air. I suppose we could paint a sunny scene if we wanted to, but I like to be true to what I see.” - Kim

Abernethy

Dr. John Lang, Linville Vet

By Peter Morris

"We understand the special role your pet plays in your family and are dedicated to becoming your partner in your pet's health care." - Dr. John Lang

Revolution Clothiers & Co.

By Kris Testori

“I have so many different styles and versions of me, and each version of me can find one that can relate to the customer.” - Barone

High Country Caregivers

By Anna Beth Adcock

“We want to provide these children an experience that is similar to growing up in a traditional home.” - Jacob Willis

High Country EMTs

By Peter Morris

“Being a paramedic…it’s so much more than a job…it’s a lifestyle that encompasses different aspects of who you are.” - Angela Seeley

Ashe County Young Professionals

By Harley Nefe

"A young professional is someone who carries themselves with divinity and self-respect. It’s a person who puts 110% into their job regardless of what their job encompasses." - Joshua Biggers.

March in the High Country means we start the transition from winter to spring. We continue to visit the slopes and wear sweaters while feeling the excitement and anticipation of everything turning green in the near future.

When I personally hear the word spring, I typically get excited for summer blockbuster movies. This season I am excited about John Wick 4 that is set to release on March 14, Fast X that arrives on May 19, the new Indiana Jones movie coming out on June 30, and another Mission Impossible movie coming out on July 14. Since I was a child, just a few years ago, I have always loved watching movies in a theatre. Netflix, Amazon, and Paramount have nothing on a full-length motion picture in the theatre. The taste of an ice cold refreshing Pepsi while wiping the popcorn butter on your jeans because you dropped your napkins on the floor – it's perfect!

Because of our love for the movies, we have partnered with The Appalachian Theatre to bring you www.highcountryatthemovies.com. In January, we launched the website and have been encouraging everyone to answer 5 simple questions about the movies. Each month, The Appalachian Theatre shows classics each Tuesday. In January, they played classics like Airplane, The Big Lebowski, and Pride & Prejudice. In February, you may have enjoyed Dirty Dancing, The Notebook, and one of my favorites, Pretty Women. This month, join us as we enjoy A League of Their Own, The Natural, and just in time for March Madness, Space Jam!

The process is simple – enjoy the movie at The Appalachian Theatre, then click over to www. highcountryatthemovies.com and answer 5 questions about the movie and rate the movie. It is that simple! You review the movies, we share the movies, everyone gets to read everyone’s reviews. Who knows, your review might even show up in the paper or the magazine.

Each month, you can see the upcoming movies at The Appalachian Theatre next to a Mountain Echo in High Country Magazine. This month at The Appalachian Theatre you may also want to enjoy a tour of the historic theatre, hang out with Blue Ridge Community Theatre and their performance of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change or enjoy Boone Docs Film Fest!

Join me and the staff at High Country Press as we celebrate cinema at The Appalachian Theatre with High Country at The Movies!

Thank you!

Sam Garrett - Publisher

Publisher Sam Garrett editor

Ken Ketchie

design

Ashley Poore

contributing Writers

Anna Beth Adcock

Maddie Lipe

Peter Morris

Harley Nefe

Jan Todd

Kris Testori

cover Photogr APher

Josh Floyd

contributing Photogr APhers

Josh Floyd

Shirley Hollars

High Country Magazine is produced by the staff and contributors of High Country Press Publications, which serves Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties of North Carolina.

High Country Press staff after enjoying Pride & Prejudice at The Appalachian Theatre. Left to right: Ashley Poore, Harley Nefe, Sam Garrett, Michelle Harrell, and Abigail Sherrin.

Barone, owner of Revolution Clothiers & Co., located in Blowing Rock. Photo by Josh Floyd.

mountain echoes

Nearly 125 Brave (Or Crazy) Souls Plunge Into Frigid Chetola Lake

STORY BY KRIS TESTORI

An 88-year-old in a white bear costume was the star of the 2023 Winterfest Polar Bear Plunge. When asked why she took the plunge, Boone resident Joan Hearn replied, “Why wouldn’t I?” Hearn is on the board of directors at High Country Caregivers, one of the Polar Bear Plunge funds recipients. “This is my 30th jump,” Hearn said. “It’s a lot of fun, and I’ve done it many years, even back when it was held at the duck pond.”

Marty Wilson, program director at High Country Caregivers, escorted Hearn to Chetola Lake for the plunge. “She is an amazing person,” Wilson said. “We learned earlier that we received an anonymous $1,000 donation for her to jump.”

Spectators began gathering around Chetola Lake at around 9 a.m. “You can absolutely feel the excitement in the air,” said Charlotte resident Anna Blake. “Our family comes up every year for WinterFest. This is our ninth year attending, and our favorite part is always the Polar Plunge.” When asked if she would jump herself, she laughed, “Absolutely not.”

John Carter, an anchor at WBTV News, was the emcee for the annual event, and at one point, he declared, “This may be the best one [Polar Bear Plunge] ever.” Proceeds from the 2023 Polar Bear Plunge benefit two local charities: the Hunger & Health Coalition and High Country Caregivers.

The owner of Alair Homes, Jeff Smith, painted his chest black and dressed as wrestler Macho Man Randy Savage. He wore a Randy Savage wig, purple and white tiger-striped wrestling pants, and Macho Man sunglasses. When asked why he participated, he replied, imitating Savage’s deep voice, “Randy Savage has been resurrected to support the Hunger and Health Coalition. They do so much for our community. We’re trying to serve our community. We love Blowing Rock.”

As each plunge group prepared to jump, Carter asked them why they were jumping. When asked why she was jumping, Blowing Rock resident Nadine Wynarczyk replied, “I am with High Country Caregivers, and we help grandparents take care of their grandchildren; check us out.”

After her jump, Carter asked Wynarczyk, wearing an American Flag bikini top-dressed from head to toe in red, white, and blue, how she felt. She responded by jumping in the lake a second time. The hundreds of spectators in the crowd went wild,

and then Smith (dressed as Randy Savage) also jumped in for a second time. Carter responded, “I guess you don’t have to be crazy to do this, but this proves you can be.”

The mission of the Hunger and Health Coalition is to relieve poverty and hunger compassionately for families and individuals who are experiencing economic hardship and food shortages. This assistance may include food, medicine, wood, and referrals to other community resources.

High Country Caregivers provides support to families who are being disrupted by the opioid and substance abuse crisis in the High Country. Over the past 20 years, substance abuse has been the primary cause of children needing to be placed in kinship care.

“Our Goal is to rise above the challenges and keep loved ones at home,” executive director of High Country Caregivers Jacob Willis said. “It’s a better environment than the foster system. We are dedicated to keeping these families whole so grandparents can provide care, support, and responsible decisions for their grandchildren.”

Jeff Smith from Alair Homes helps Joan Hearn out of the water after she completed her 30th Polar Plunge. Photo by Josh Floyd.

mountain echoes

A Fresh Start: Studio M Salon Moves to Historic Blowing Rock Ice House

STORY BY MADDIE LIPE

Studio M Salon of Blowing Rock now has a new look and location, the historic Blowing Rock Ice House on Maple Street.

Owner and hairdresser Maria Roberts moved her studio from 304 Sunset Drive to 140 Maple St. to continue her business solo.

Roberts said the previous location, which was one of the other two locations in Blowing Rock she worked in, had too much wasted space for her to be working alone.

Roberts placed a proposal on the historic Ice House when it went up for bidding, and the town of Blowing Rock voted to accept her proposal.

“I always had my eye on the space,” Roberts said when referring to the new location.

Roberts has been in business at the new location since January 11, and said it took her eight days to get the studio ready for her clients.

The new salon has a minimalistic feel to it, which is what Roberts said she was aiming for. She still has a few more final touches to make to the salon, which include hanging a piece of art that is special to her.

Roberts said the large drawing of Cindy Crawford from a 1990 Halston perfume ad has traveled with her from location to location and is now a staple to her fresh start.

Roberts said she has always loved art and the female body and the drawing of Crawford, created by her husband’s friend Mike Peak, “embodies femininity.”

Roberts grew up helping her grandmother set her hair with rollers. “She had these old wire rollers and an eight track with a mirror,” Roberts said.

Roberts said those early years in her life growing up in Roan Mountain, Tennessee were when she realized she wanted to have a salon of her own.

Roberts specializes in “gray coverage, color, highlights, and natural confidence since 2010,” and her clients are women.

Roberts said her clients who she has been hairdressing for years love the new building, and they know she has wanted the building for years.

The historic Ice House was built for storing ice from Chetola Lake, and in the 1930s, Blowing Rock residents could purchase 100 pounds of ice for 10 cents.

The building is made from Grandfather Mountain granite and has been home to an automobile service station, an electrical repair shop and an office of a local newspaper.

Roberts said that being able to have her business in the historic building is important to her.

“I definitely want to preserve that history. It just makes it special,” Roberts said. “This building needs and deserves to be shown off and loved.”

Roberts sent her gratitude to her loyal clients that she has formed a relationship with over the years of her business in Blowing Rock.

“I feel very fortunate and very blessed to have the community and the family,” Roberts said. “I know it sounds cliche, but my clients feel like my family.”

In one of the front windows of the salon, sits a plethora of plants that clients have given to Roberts over the years.

Roberts said her clients will bring in plants that are dying, and she takes care of them and has taken them from location to location with her.

Roberts said her clients know her on a personal level, and they have been an important part of her life and the lives of her husband and three children.

“They’re pretty amazing people,” Roberts said.

Roberts’s new salon is open Monday through Saturday, and those interested in booking an appointment with her can visit her website at https://www. studiomsalonbr.com/. t

Roberts poses next to her new salon chair and vanity, which awaits clients in her new salon location. Photo by Maddie Lipe.

Studio M Salon owner Maria Roberts poses outside of her new business location, the historic Blowing Rock Ice House. Photo by Maddie Lipe.

Carolina Gal

By Jan Todd

Southern Twang

Over my six decades of life, I’ve lived in eight different Southeastern states — in small towns and cities, rural areas and suburbs. I’ve dined at fine restaurants in Savannah and eaten at deep dives along the backroads. I’ve cheered at high school football games — cow bell in hand — and listened to bluegrass music on the lawn of The Jones House on sweet summer nights in Boone. I’ve been to parties in fields and have eaten fried chicken at a Nascar race. I’d say I’m well versed in Southern culture.

Sometimes, Southerners can be misunderstood. I remember one time I was working with a group of folks from all over the country. One lady was a bit rude and impatient with me, and I just figured she was having a bad day, bless her heart. Later she confessed that she thought I wasn’t too bright, because compared to others in the group, I spoke more slowly than most — and with an accent, to boot.

Well gracious daisies. I’ve always considered an accent — Southern or otherwise — the seasoning in spicy conversation. Add in some regional phraseology, and you’ve got yourself a story.

Once I went to a football game in Clover, South Carolina, and casually asked the ticket taker how he was doing that fine evening. “I’m hangin’ in thar like a har in a biscuit,” he replied.

Lawsa mercy! I’m still trying to figure out if that was good or bad. The game that night was mighty exciting, with teams exchanging score for score. The announcer, who may or may not

have been related to the ticket taker, exclaimed, “This game is on like a pot of chicken necks!” He went on to say they’d be taking up a collection in an offering plate as we left the stadium, because we’d done seen ourselves a ball game that night!

Women folk from Up North and other places sometimes are taken aback by Southerners saying, “Yes, ma’am.” Some are even offended, thinking we’re being sarcastic or implying they’re older. (Not that being considered older is an offense, for goodness sakes.)

I was taught to say “ma’am” from an early age. If I answered with a simple, “Yes,” my mama would invariably respond, “Yes, what?” until I got the ma’am in there.

Now over the past few years, the phrase “Bless her heart” has taken a lot of heat. There is some truth to the fact we use it to make a little fun of folks or soften a tale that might not be exactly complimentary of someone. However, we also use it most genuinely when lamenting about someone’s troubles or admiring their resilience in a situation. You just have to pay attention to the context to know whether to chuckle or sympathetically shake your head in agreement.

Over the years I’ve come to love listening to the accents from folks all over the world. The words we use — and how we use them — convey a lot about where we grew up and who we are. So remember: Next time someone says “Yes ma’am” (or “Yes sir”) to you, just smile, bless their heart, and go on with your day. t

Jan Todd (pictured fourth from the left) attends an App State game with her family. Cheering at football games (especially accompanied by a cow bell) is one of the things she loves about Southern culture.

En Plein Air

Artists take it outside in the High Country

STORY BY JAN TODD

Most people see a color as “brownish orange,” but Kim Abernethy sees it as “transparent earth red.” It is the shade she uses as the first layer — or underpainting — in many of her landscape oil paintings.

“I paint a lot of greens in my landscapes, and the earth red really makes them pop,” Abernethy explained.

Abernethy, an accomplished artist in the area, is a member of High Country Plein Air Painters, a group that meets weekly during early spring through late fall, to paint “en plein air” — or “in the open air.” They gather on Wednesday mornings at area landmarks such as Daniel Boone Gardens, Moses Cone Memorial Park, Bass Lake or other scenic spots.

During summer months, as many as 25-30 painters may show up for the session, toting easels, a selection of paints (oil, acrylic or watercolor), sketchpads and canvases. Skill levels vary from beginners to advanced.

Kay Herndon considers herself a newbie, and enjoys the supportive atmosphere of the Plein Air group. “Everyone is willing to help,” she said.

The High Country Plein Air Painters gathered for their last session in 2022 on a foggy morning at The Blowing Rock. During summer, there may be 25-30 painters on any given Wednesday. Some of the members are part-time residents or visitors to the area, joining the group for just a single session or part of the season. Pictured in the front, from left are Ann Richardson, Kay Herndon, Penny Makris, Cara Hayes, Martha Saffer. Second row from left, Tim Larson, Belinda Forsyth, Kim Abernethy, Jennifer Garonzik, Waitsel Smith. Back row, Earl Davis.

Kay Herndon, relatively new to painting, sketches her scene with light and dark shades prior to painting on canvas. “This is the proper procedure for beginners,” she explained, adding the technique helps her form her perspective and dimensions. Photo by Jan Todd

Herndon begins her plein air sessions by sketching a scene on paper, blocking out the lights and darks. “Some of the more advanced painters in the group can just start directly on their canvases, but I need to get my dimensions and perspective set. I decide what subject to focus on, to keep the eye in the picture. I’m still learning,” she said.

Herndon retired as a certified public accountant and wanted a creative hobby. She used to do Tole painting — decorative folk art painting on objects and furniture — before she had children but gave up art for years until her retirement.

Earl Davis, founder of the High Country group, is a minister, an author and an artist. “I took up glass blowing when I was younger, but every time my wife cleaned the house, a piece of my art would bite the dust,” he quipped. “That’s why I took up oil painting.”

Davis said he never had formal training as a painter, just “tinkered and dabbled.” When he

moved to Blowing Rock about seven years ago, he entered his work in the Watauga Arts Council Petal Pushers exhibition and won second place.

Pat Collins, the judge in the contest, encouraged Davis to apply for the Blowing Rock Artist in Residence program at Edgewood Cottage. “I had a ball doing that, and sold a lot of paintings,” Davis said. He said he enjoys sharing his work with others, whether it be the finished product or work in progress. Working outside, he is able to carry on a conversation effortlessly while painting a scene.

Davis started the painting group — managed on a Facebook group called High Country Plein Air Painters — in 2021. “I knew there were a bunch of us artists up here and thought it would be fun to get together on a regular basis,” he said.

“Painting can be such a solitary endeavor,” Abernethy chimed in. “We’re working in our houses, in our studios. I was drawn to the group to be around other people.”

Earl Davis, founder of the High Country Plein Air artists group, pauses to speak to a visitor at The Blowing Rock. As a pastor and lifelong artist, Davis enjoys interacting with others and is able to carry on a conversation easily while working on his painting. Photo by Jan Todd

I took up glass blowing when I was younger, but every time my wife cleaned the house, a piece of my art would bite the dust.That’s why I took up oil painting.

- EARL DAVIS, Founder of High Country Plein Air Painters

After two hours of working in

Abernethy said she doesn’t expect to paint a “masterpiece” every week during the plein air sessions. “To me, plein air is more about the process. What I do outside makes my studio work better,” she said.

Like Davis, Abernethy did not study art in school. Long time Boone residents, Abernethy and her husband, Tom, once owned a One Hour Photo business, developing photos for their customers.

“I used photography as my creative outlet, just playing around with it,” she said. Abernethy loved visiting art galleries, and said she always held artists “in the highest esteem.”

“Out in nature, I’d look at a scene and wish I could paint it — but then I’d just take a photograph,” Abernethy shared. Then a friend invited her to an art class taught by John Bond at the Art Mart. She hesitated, until her husband encouraged her to give it a try.

“After my first lesson, I knew I’d never put a paintbrush down. I absolutely loved it. John taught me how to mix paint, how to look at composition. Most of the other people in the class had some experience, but John took me from below zero. I enjoyed learning from him, because he could work with people wherever they were in their skills,” she said.

the fog, the sun broke through at The Blowing Rock, revealing brilliant fall colors for the members of High Country Plein Air Painters. Changes in light and weather are part of the challenge — and delight — of painting outdoors. Photo by Jan Todd

Kay Herndon (center) takes a break from her own painting to visit with and check out the work of Cara Hayes (left) and Penny Makris. Photo by Jan Todd

Jennifer Garonzik, education director at BRAHM, patiently waits for the sun to break through the fog so she can add autumn colors to her painting. Jennifer runs the annual Plein Air Festival in Blowing Rock, and teaches classes to school children and adults at BRAHM. Photo by Jan Todd

Painting can be such a solitary endeavor. We’re working in our houses, in our studios. I was drawn to the group to be around other people.

- KIM ABERNETHY

Later, Abernethy enrolled in a plein air workshop held in Asheville and fell in love with the technique. “It has made me stronger as an artist,” she said.

Much of Abernethy’s work is created outdoors and is sold in several galleries in the High Country and elsewhere. She is a juried member of Oil Painters of America and Women Painters of the Southeast and has regularly teaches workshops through Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff.

In late October, the High Country Plein Air group met at The Blowing Rock for their last session of the year. A dense early morning fog had settled in, and the painters wandered around looking for a subject to paint. The majestic valley beneath the landmark rock was completely obscured from view.

“There are no rules in plein air,” Abernethy said. “I suppose we could paint a sunny scene if we wanted to, but I like to be true to what I see. So I guess I’m painting fog today.”

Professional artist Waitsel Smith took a while to settle on his subject. “I like to paint dramatic lighting, and you don’t find that in the fog,” he said.

Smith studied film, music and writing

Appalachia Cleaning Co.

During plein air group sessions, artist spread out all over the property, each choosing different scenes or perspectives to paint. “It’s amazing how we can all go to the same place and come out with very different paintings,” said Kim

at UNC-Chapel Hill, but didn’t accumulate enough credits to graduate in a major, he said. “So, I enrolled in East Carolina’s art program and majored in painting and graphic design.” He spent most of his career in advertising and commercial art, while also working as a fine artist.

“I’m not what you’d call a plein air painter,” he shared. “I’m mostly a studio painter, where you have control over everything. You’re not dealing with weather, you’re not dealing with people. Outdoors, the light is constantly changing and you only have a couple hours to capture the scene.” Still, when Davis invited him to join the High Country group, he found he enjoyed painting outdoors with other artists.

Smith, whose works include mostly oil paintings and watercolors of people, landscapes and places, decided to paint a scene with the historic building at The Blowing Rock on that foggy day. “The red door is eyecatching,” he said.

Just down the path, Jennifer Garonzik was visualizing what the autumn color might look like were it not completely obscured by the fog. Her pallate bore bright fall colors with reds, oranges and yellows. “The sun will come out eventually,” she mused.

Garonzik, the education center director at BRAHM (Blowing Rock Art and History Museum), teaches art classes at the museum and runs the annual Plein Air Festival, held each August. She has taught students age 2 to 92, she said,

Plein air painters welcome the challenge of creating art outdoors — regardless of the weather. During the last session of 2022, High Country Plein Air Painters arrived at The Blowing Rock to find a dense fog. They painted for a couple of hours before the fog lifted, capturing the moody scenery. Photo by Jan Todd

Abernethy. Photo by Jan Todd

Waitsel Smith displays two plein air paintings of The Blowing Rock, completed at an earlier session during summer. It was foggy that day as well, he said. Smith spent most of his career in advertising and commercial art, while also working as a fine artist. Photo by Jan Todd

There are no rules in plein air. I suppose we could paint a sunny scene if we wanted to, but I like to be true to what I see. So I guess I’m painting fog today.

- KIM ABERNETHY

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“THE

leading school field trips and Cork & Canvas classes held at BRAHM.

The Plein Air Festival has become very popular, Garonzik said, with 120 artists from 15 different states participating in 2022. The artists spend three or four days painting scenes in Blowing Rock, then sell their work at the festival finale held at BRAHM. The museum keeps a commission from the sales which contributes to the art education fund.

Garonzik said attending the High Country Plein Air gatherings keep her accountable and help her make time for painting. “I live in a small house and have children, so I don’t get out very often on my own. I keep my art supplies in my car and set aside Wednesday mornings to paint with this group,” she said.

Two hours into that day’s session, many of the artists were applying final touches to their paintings when the sun

D. Davis, III Owner/Broker

Tim Larson (right) takes a break from his painting to pose with Charlie Sellers, mayor of Blowing Rock and the owner/ operator of The Blowing Rock attraction. Sellers said the arts are an important part of the community and hosting the High Country Plein Air Painters allows tourists and residents to interact with artists and learn about their work. Photo by Jan Todd

Kim Abernethy snaps a photo of her work in progress, along with her subject. Plein air artists often use photos in the studio to put final touches on artwork. Photo by Jan Todd

finally broke through the fog.

There were cries of delight as rich colors emerged in the valley behind the Blowing Rock and light danced on the surfaces of the rocks and trees.

“Ohl! Look at that! Oh how beautiful!” exclaimed Abernethy. “I’ve been waiting all morning for this!”

The clearing fog revealed bright sunlight and billowy clouds set against a brilliant blue sky.

“This.” Abernethy said. “This is why we do it.” t

Interested in joining the group? Painters of all skill levels and visitors are always welcome. Request to join through the High Country Plein Air Facebook page or contact Kim Abernethy through www.KimAbernethy.com.

During the plein air session at The Blowing Rock, Tim Larson chose a scene with an evergreen set against the fall color. Most of his painting was accomplished when the background color was hidden by the heavy fog. Larson is a marketing professional and works with zoos across the country. He has also worked as an artist and illustrator. “I like to be outdoors, and I like people,” he said, joining the Plein Air group “just for fun.” Tim's final painting is shown in the picture on pages 14 & 15.

Photo by Jan Todd

Dr. John Lang: Caring for Animals Small & Large

STORY BY PETER MORRIS

Beloved humorist Will Rogers said a mouthful with his homespun appraisal of veterinarians, expressing both love and admiration for those medical professionals to whom we trust our world of beloved animals. Many decades later, after Roger’s death in an airplane crash in Alaska, the world was again treated to the wonders of caring vets when American’s fell under the spell of British veterinarian James Herriot, who charmed nations with his book All Creatures Great and Small followed by a 90-episode television series of the same name.

In the High Country of Western North Carolina, it seems as if veterinary clinics are everywhere, on main throughfares, side streets and throughout the three-county region of Watauga, Ashe, and Avery. However, these statistics aren’t quite what they appear. With the exception on one veterinary clinic, Dr. John Lang’s Linville Animal Hospital, in Banner Elk, all other such services cater only to small animals ranging from Dachshunds and Pomeranians to the larger breeds of Labradors and English Mastiffs, to many of the 42-71 recognized breeds of cats that inhabit homes from Vilas to Deep Gap to Meat Camp.

- DR. JOHN LANG

“Personally, I have always felt that the best doctor in the world is the veterinarian. He can't ask his patients what is the matter, he's just got to know.” - Will Rogers

Dr. Lang with a newborn kid. A kid is a goat that is less than a year of age.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

I love what I do and the many types of animals I work with, but with the larger farm animals, either they love me or hate me. It often takes some time to get those animals which hate me to understand that I’m only trying to help them.

And, we might add, probably other critters ranging from birds to baby raccoons to flying squirrels, turtles, and mice.

What sets Dr. Lang’s clinic apart is that, in addition to meeting the needs of his general four-legged clients several days a week, by appointment, on Wednesdays and Thursdays he sees farm animals in the afternoons, additionally being on-call for these large animal emergencies 24-7.

Lang attended Indiana University for his undergraduate studies, later attending Ohio State University for his doctorate in veterinary medicine.

While there are other large animal vets who visit the High Country, they all reside and have their practices off the mountain in surrounding counties.

Dr. Lang’s animal clientele runs the gamut. “We treat dogs and cats at our Linville clinic but, on the farms, we see sheep, goats, cows, llamas, horses and alpacas,” explained Lang. “On some occasions, I will assist Dr. Lee Bolt, of Asheville’s Sweeten Creek Animal and Bird Hospital, with the animals at Grandfather Mountain, animals including bears, elk, deer, mountain lions and river otters.”

Young or older, Lang’s animal patients receive his brand of loving care and attention for what might be termed “from the cradle to the grave” service.

“Aging changes such as arthritis, vision and hearing loss are normal and cannot be prevented, but many changes related to disease can be managed and treated successfully if detected early.”

Lang came to his calling from childhood experiences. He continues, “I have been a veterinarian for 24 years, having been led to this work at a very young age through taking care of my family's small farm of sheep, our pony named Charlie Brown, numerous Saint Bernards, a Border Collie named Gracie, and various cats,” he laughed. “I would stay up on long, cold, winter nights assisting the ewes in delivering lambs every year. I was always amazed by how fast our veterinarian could solve the problems with our animals,” he added. “He never hesitated to come out no matter what time of night. I did not realize how difficult his job was until later. I believe he enjoyed the people just as much as the animals he treated. I started volunteering for him in the summers at the age of 13, sometimes riding my bike to his office when my parents could not take me. It was such a wonderful experience and is why I still love what I do.”

Dr. Lang with beef cattle. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Dr. Lang works out of his "hospital on wheels" when making visits to farm animals.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

I do receive a bite or two while working with my patients, but that’s just part of the job.

- DR. JOHN LANG

Our entire healthcare team is committed in providing personal attention to the unique concerns of each individual pet and owner.

- DR. JOHN LANG

What Dr. Lang and his team do is beyond extraordinary.

“We do sick and wellness exams and vaccines, in-house blood work and sendout blood work, fecals, urinalysis, intraarticular injections, digital x-rays in the office and out in the field, laser therapy for wound treatments and orthopedic rehabilitation.” Dr. Lang noted. “We also do dental cleanings and tooth extractions, spays and castrations, soft tissue surgeries such as mass removals, enterotomies (foreign body removals), hernia repairs, eye surgeries, floating teeth on horses, c-sections and amputations. We also have Dr. Brett Wood who is a board certified

Left Photo: Preparing a syringe to administer a vaccine for one of the many farm animals.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Animals such as horses and alpacas are just a few of the animals that Dr. Lang takes care of.

Photos by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Tame geese watch as Dr. Lang works at a local horse farm.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Dr. Lang does an ultrasound on an alpaca to test for a baby. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Preparing to walk through the mud to check on a horse client.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Farm calls often require trudging through muddy pastures to reach the animals. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

veterinary surgeon who performs more complicated orthopedic and soft tissue surgeries for our clients.”

Lang tells his animal owners, “We understand the special role your pet plays in your family and are dedicated to becoming your partner in your pet's health care. Our goal is to practice the highest quality medicine and surgery with compassion and an emphasis on client education. It is our commitment to provide quality veterinary care throughout the life of your pet no matter how big or how small they might be and complete medical and surgical care as necessary during his or her lifetime.”

Nurses and assistants who work with Dr. Lang include Angel McKinney, Chelsea Laws, Chandra Guinn, Elizabeth Lee, and Reagan Hughes. “Both of my sons have worked for me in the summer,” he says. “I also have a relief veterinarian, Dr. Miranda Lilly, who works with us once a week.”

He is assisted by son’s Noah, 18 years old and a freshman at Appalachian State University and Jackson, 17, who graduated early from Watauga High School. His wife, Amy, a Registered Nurse at Appalachian gastroenterology, also assists him in his medical endeavors with the farm animals. They live in Vilas with sheep and chickens and, not surprisingly, two dogs and two cats.

As might be expected, especially for those fortunate enough to have tuned-in on James Herriot misadventures with animals, Dr. Lang has a long list of what might be called “war stories.”

“One time while doing a cesarean on a cow, with Amy assisting me, the cow coughed and sprayed her face with blood from the abdominal incision as she was holding the uterus. Then after closing the abdomen and skin, we released the cow from the headgate, and she proceeded to run up the hill without her calf.” he smiled in recognition. “So, I

Dr. Lang feeding a steer.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

hopped on the back of a four-wheeler holding a wet slimy calf chasing after the cow up the mountain in the dark with the farmer. We returned the calf to the cow, and he started nursing immediately.”

“Then there was a time where I was lowered down into a dry well to rope a calf in order for it to be pulled out. We got the calf and myself out of the well and then the mama cow started chasing us around the pasture.

And, later, there is the tale about a horse having to be tranquilized prior to it being hauled out of deep mud by a large tow truck…another fun story indeed!

Having to tend to the animals year round and, as mentioned round-the clock, some on the farm visits with the animals can occur at any time and, to be sure, in any weather.

A particularly unpleasant winter farm visit sticks in Dr. Lang’s mind.

“I did another cesarean in 0 degree weather. My hands got so cold in which they could barely function, so I put them inside the abdomen to warm them to the point where I could perform the surgery. Another time, while at an App State football game, I was called out to suture a horse's tongue back together. I left just before halftime and made it back before the game ended.”

While Dr. Lang prefers not to name his revolving list of farm animal clients, he does note that Elk River, with horses, Apple Hill Farm, with horses, donkeys,

We understand the special role your pet plays in your family and are dedicated to becoming your partner in your pet's health care. Our goal is to practice the highest quality medicine and surgery with compassion and an emphasis on client education.

- DR. JOHN LANG

Dr. Lang puts on his gloves to inspect a horse. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

With assistance from horse owner, Tonya McKinney, Dr. Lang checks the animal for a baby. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

and others, River Run and Circle G Farm with horses, and Blowing Rock Equestrian Center and Yonahlossee Stables and all among his favorites.

“Traveling with Dr. Lang is an adventure in itself, as the photographer for this article learned on several photo-shoots as he traveled country backroads in “house calls” with numerous animals. On one visit with a horse who’d had a painful encounter with barbed wire, the shooter fell head-first into a thick, sticky mudhole comprised of horse, donkey and goose left-overs and urine, which re-injured his injured back and right leg, coated his camera with unacceptable offerings and, after thirty minutes of attempted re-standing and escape, eagerly hopped into Dr. Lang’s clean red Toyota Four Runner/hospital unit, which had been hastily padded with blankets. “Do I smell that bad?” came the question to the good doctor, who was grinning, as he quickly rolled down his driver’s side window.

All in a day’s work!

Revolution

Barone’s Revolution Clothiers & Co. on Main Street

STORY BY KRIS TESTORI

On any given day, it’s not unusual to see Revolution Clothiers & Co. owner Barone strolling in front of his store while engaging with tourists walking along Main Street in downtown Blowing Rock. Dressed in a distinctive outfit and carrying one of his trademark walking sticks, his fervent love for both people and eclectic fashion is evident.

The clothier, known by his mononym, Barone, is the director of operations and a partner at Revolution, selling men’s and women’s fashion, eclectic gifts, and luxe accessories.

When I met with Barone, he was wearing one of his signature suits, a black and white custom-made Saint Laurent cape, numerous statement rings, and he was carrying his “go to” walking stick that he’s named Charlie. To top off the look, he wore a dark gray Homberg hat with a thick black hat band ribbon.

“I never fell into the realm of conformity,” Barone said. “I just want to be me, do me, man. Some days, I favor wearing Victorian suiting, with the flocking and the ability to accessorize. Sometimes I prefer early Scandinavian clothing, with skins and furs and drapings, and other times its Renaissance fashion with beautiful fabrics and posh luxe. I think there is something inside of everybody that can relate to a fashion era and is attracted to it. If I want to look like the Prince of Norway and have the option in my closet, I can. If on another day I want to look like I am a Renaissance man or Victorian guy walking with his top hat and a walking stick, I have options where I can do all of that.”

“I've always said, within this concrete jungle, [clothing style] is my armor,” Barone continued. “People will either hate it and talk jazz about it or love it. But you need to know that none of these people are on my radar when I get dressed. What is on my radar is what makes me feel the best version of me today. So I can then radiate it out to you. The best version of me that I can possibly be.”

Blowing Rock Chose Him

When asked how he chose Blowing Rock as his second location for Revolution, Barone replied, “I feel like Blowing

Rock chose me.” He explains how the most peculiar object—a purple chaise longue—led him to open his boutique downtown.

“I’ve always loved this area, but it was the purple chaise lounge that brought me here,” Barone said. “The gal who owned this place prior to me had a purple chaise lounge in

Barone in front of his storefront in downtown Blowing Rock, carrying his “go to” walking stick, he’s named Charlie. Photo by Josh Floyd

her shop. And I was just in love with it. I would always call her and ask about the purple chaise lounge. She was not selling it. One day I went down to the wish tree at the block's end, and I wrote out my intentions to the universe that I wanted to be here in Blowing Rock, and I wanted our store to be here.”

He said a few months later the former owner called him and asked, “do you want to get me out of here?”

In November of 2020, Barone’s wish came true, and he opened the second Revolution location in Blowing Rock, in the former shop where the purple chaise lounge was. Barone travels between this location and the original Revolution, located in the Dilworth neighborhood of Charlotte.

The wish tree Barone was referring to was commonly called the Prayer Tree. It was known for its collection of thousands of prayer cards and encouraging messages tied to a tree just outside the front door of Take Heart Boutique at the corner of Main Street and Maple Street. Set up by Sherri

Furman, owner of the boutique, the shop was devastated by a fire in 2019; however, the fire didn’t burn one of the 14,000 prayers on the tree. Furman rebuilt the store in 2022. The prayers, which had climbed to 40,000 after the fire, were mixed into the foundation and walls of the store. Barone’s wish is inside the walls of the store.

Barone says the local business community greeted him with open arms.

“That’s the best thing about this community –I can be a part of what other businesses before me created,” he said. “I want to see Blowing Rock grow, and I want to wow the customers. I am newer, obviously, and I am more eclectic. I feel like by opening our shop in this building, we actually brought back the nostalgic feel to the interior of this building. When we came in, it was white tile floors, drop ceilings and pure amigo blue walls. I feel like the shop now has a much homier, a more Blowing Rock look and feel.”

Barone completely updated the interior of the building, restoring the hardwood floors the previous owner had covered in tile. He installed a traditional ceiling with small spotlights showcasing

- BARONE

Customers can find a large selection of super fun and sometimes naughty gifts. “Sometimes I like the shock factor” - Barone. Photo by Josh Floyd

Wearing a red tuxedo style velvet dinner jacket with a satin lapel, this gentleman is ready for a night on the town. He is accessorized with a fox fur collar, a silver linked chain, and a custom silk ascot by designer Ruth Graves. Photo by Josh Floyd

That’s the best thing about this community – I can be a part of what other businesses before me created. I want to see Blowing Rock grow, and I want to wow the customers. I am newer, obviously, and I am more eclectic. I feel like by opening our shop in this building, we actually brought back the nostalgic feel to the interior of this building.

the product and painted the entire store warmly. A custom-made rack system displays the merchandise and sits on top of animal print rugs.

The walls are adorned with ornate metal animal heads, including a sizable purple unicorn with a gold horn. The quote next to it says, “Dude what's your point?” Other wall quotes include, “I see you, I get you, I love you,” and “I'm jealous of the fabric holding your clothes.”

As customers enter the store, Barone builds a rapport with them. He compliments many of them on an item of clothing or accessory they are wearing. Armed with years of experience in the fashion industry, Barone points out brands and styles as guests come and go.

When I interviewed him, a customer walked into the store wearing a babushka, a scarf tied under the chin. He smiled at her and said, “I like your babushka; I like how you wear that with the white – it's super fun.”

With other guests, particularly groups of women, he teases and flirts with them – often calling them love or my love. “I am the Mad Hatter in the rabbit hole,” Barone said. “There are not a lot of folks that will dedicate their life to what I have. I have dedicated myself to knowing where the textile world leads. Knowing where the cotton comes from, how you source your leather, how you make it, and who your vendor is.”

Barone credits his father's mother, who he calls Nanny, and his mother for his introduction to fashion and shopping. “They were all hippies coming out of a major fashion movement,” he said. “I’ve always been attracted to clothing; I always say if you cut me, I bleed cotton.” Barone grew up splitting his time between Charlotte with his mother and Miami with his Nanny. “Fashion is my destiny,” he said. “I love the fashion world; it's the only avenue I've ever found that drops the wall that people so easily put up, and it creates a bridge for people to relate to, and that's what I love about clothing.”

The products Revolution offers are unique and well-curated, with a range

The store sells upscale men's and women’s clothing and jewelery representing a variety of periods and styles. You can also find fun gifts for everyone. Who doesn't need a Dolly Parton quote on their desk? Photos by Josh Floyd

BARONE

of things to interest all ages and different types of people. The upscale men and women’s clothing offers an assortment of contemporary designers and independent labels and represents a variety of periods and styles.

The gift selection can only be described as eclectic, funky, bordering on ridiculous, and super fun. “Sometimes I like the shock factor,” Barone explains. As you enter the store, you're greeted with a row of shiny ceramic balloon dogs in bright colors. Book offerings include “Stoners Coffee Table Book”; “Zombie Catchers Handbook”; a nature coloring book, and “Taxi Driver Wisdom.”

“I think people recognize they are at home when they enter the store,” Barone shared. “I give [the customers] an opportunity to just be themselves. I sell cocktail napkins that say, ‘I need a cocktail… hold the tail,’ and when I hear people laugh at that, to hear that laughter from that one napkin. I know I’ve done my thing.”

Skulls, furs, thumbs-up statues, crowns, and cats (including

cat napkins) are common themes among the items for sale at Revolution. You can buy both a coffee cup and a candle with the quote, “you can't polish a turd.”

Many of the gift items Barone carries may be considered super naughty or even risque. “What my partner and I buy–well, we buy things that amuse us,” he said. “I have a fun personality, so I feel like if it makes me laugh, it will make the people laugh. I always say the Revolution is for the people.”

During his first month in business, Christmas of 2020, Barone recalls a day when an elderly customer came into the shop dressed very conservatively. The customer went over to the Christmas tree, adorned with ornaments some might think were inappropriate. “I immediately thought she would give me the come-to-Jesus speech,” Barone said. “She goes over to the tree. It has penis ornaments on it, boobs on it, gingerbread people doing unmentionable things on it, all of it. She takes all these penis ornaments off–she comes up to the counter, lays them all out, and looks up at me. 'I was like, so how did you do?'

There are not a lot of folks that will dedicate their life to what I have. I have dedicated myself to knowing where the textile world leads. Knowing where the cotton comes from, how you source your leather, how you make it, and who your vendor is. -

Barone often refers to himself as the Mad Hatter in the rabbit hole.

Photo by Josh Floyd

The walls inside the store are adorned with ornate metal animal heads and other statement pieces, such as this golden bear head. Photo by Josh Floyd

A Hat for Every Occasion

Whether you need a hat to wear to the opera, a gala, or just because it's Tuesday, you can find it at Revolution Clothiers & Co. The store has an amazing hat collection, including homburgs, bowlers, newsies, drivers, and fedoras.

Barone knows hats and loves sharing his incredible wisdom about hats with shoppers. "I consider myself the Mad Hatter," he said, referencing the character Hatter in Alice in Wonderland. "I have always fancied that character; it's a great reference." The Hatter, a fictional character in Lewis Carroll's 1865 book Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, is often referred to as the Mad Hatter due to his outlandish and erratic behaviors, which mimic those of a person who has gone mad.

The phrase "mad hatter" comes from the expression "as mad as a hatter," referring to the often crazy and unpredictable behavior of hat makers in the 19th century. At the time, mercury was used in the manufacturing process of fine hats, causing a high rate of mercury poisoning among those working in the hat industry. "The hatters would put mercury in the rim of the hat brim," Barone explained. "The men would wear the hats all day long in the heat, and [the mercury] poisoned the people, and they went mad." Mercury poisoning can cause neurological damage, including slurred speech, memory loss, and tremors.

"I collect hats," Barone shared. "No accessory can change up a look quite like a hat. Throughout time, all cultures have found hats attractive because they allow people to add that other accessory or addition to their image.”

Barone explains how all civilizations have worn hats. "A hat or a headdress has always been within every culture you look at,"

he said. "From Native Americans to Egyptians, Mayans, and now to modern society." The earliest depiction of a hat was in Thebes, Egypt, in 3200 BCE. The pictorial description was found in a Theban tomb, in a painting showing a man wearing a conical straw hat. Throughout history, each social group had its own style of hat."Historically, the hat assigned people to their social grouping or echelon," Barone explained. In the 1900s, immigrants would get off the boat wearing their newsies [newsboy cap]; at the same time, you saw people working in the financial institutions wearing toppers; you went to a symphony, and everybody was dressed in black tie and a top hat.

"The first top hat appeared at the end of the 18th century," Barone explained. “At the time, they were wrapping these hats in gorgeous silk. The fur felt in the nap was so long in silk that it shone and glistened as they walked down the street. What does wearing a glistening silk top hat show you if not aristocracy? Amazing.”

"The hat changes itself through the different layers of what the hat is built on," Barone said. "Each element makes the hat different, whether it be the brim, the crown, the bucket, the pinch, the brim, the rim, the ribbon.” He explained various parts of the hat change the hat's purpose.

According to Barone, the most popular hat at Revolutions is the fedora. "The second most popular is probably a driver," he said. A driver, also called a flat cap, is a soft, round wool or tweed men’s cape with a small bill in front. "The driver hat is a great choice. It is sleek-looking and the kind of hat you would see someone wearing while driving a sports car like a Maserati or BMW M3," he added. "Or even a vintage Bond car." t

COMMONLY-USED HAT TERMS:

Crown: The top portion of the hat; the area above the brim that sits on your head.

Brim: Think of this as the hat's ledge, which protrudes from the base of the crown and is often used to protect you from the sun and other elements.

Underbrim: The underside or bottom of a hat brim.

Liner: The lining in the hat’s interior is usually made from satin fabric.

Hat band: The decorative strip of material (often leather, cloth, cotton, or silk) circling a hat, located above the brim.

Pinch: The indentations made along the crown's front, back, and sides

Sweatband: Inside the hat's interior, the sweatband ensures a good fit and keeps the hat's shape intact. It also prevents sweat from getting into the material of the hat itself.

The store sells candles with quotes from New York City poet and artist Zach Whitman. The author designed each label on a 1950's typewriter, and each mark, scuff, and smear are intentionally placed. Photo by Josh Floyd

Clothier Barone wants to let people know it’s always okay to be gorgeous in your clothing.

Photo by Josh Floyd

When I buy clothing, I see the art within some designers. Other people see [clothing] and think, where would I wear this to? For me, the answer is out the door.

The snow is just starting to fall as Audra Jones poses in front of Revolution Clothiers & Co. wearing a faux fur coat from Unreal Fur, a company specializing in plant-based furs.

Photo by Josh Floyd

She makes this magical sweeping hand motion and says, ‘I feel like this is the most penises I’ve ever had in my hand at once.’” Barone, shocked, replied, “You get ten percent off, my love.”

Barone said he felt like he slipped in the universe when he judged her. “I realized I judged her. I judged that book by the cover, and I am the one who hates that.” Ever since, anyone who walks in that door– gets the same love from me across the board.”

Barone says he buys clothing and items for the store strategically. “You’re not buying what's current; you are buying to create something that is going to be current. You need to know what you are trying to dress your guy or gal like– and what image you are trying to portray. There are a lot of worlds out there as far as fashion is concerned, and it's very easy to end up with a hodgepodge collection. I stay very focused on my theme. If the clothing is from an era that really talks to me, culturally wise, I can redo it and bring the style back with a newer age look. Then I play my gal or guy towards that style, depending on whatever the store

represents. When you buy, it's about buying for a collection that you think will make a stand for your impression of fashion. I can put someone in an era where they feel self-expresses themselves without having to say anything to anybody and then give it to the masses. And that’s powerful.”

“When I buy clothing, I see the art within some designers,” he said. “Other people see [clothing] and think, where would I wear this to? For me, the answer is out the door.”

More Community Engagement

Barone’s main goal for the upcoming year is to engage more within the community. Playing off the store's name, he shares, “Our whole point of having a revolution is to create a revolution. It’s not a solo project; it is for us to be among the masses and to get out there so much that people recognize you can still be who you are through your looks.” He's planning to organize multi-faceted events with

different levels of entertainment, including music, fashion, and art. “If it's a fashion event, and I bring in ten models and exhibit a certain look, we have a great opportunity for people to meet up,” he shared.

“My goal is to host more events in 2023," Barone explained. “Planning more events allows people to understand that just because they have beautiful clothing, they don’t need to set them aside for an event. I want to let people know it’s always okay to be gorgeous in your clothing. Can you just not wear [beautiful clothing] because it's a Tuesday? “I create the events for you – once you go to enough events, you’re comfortable wearing your beautiful clothing.”

Barone describes himself as a very multi-layered person. “I have so many different styles and versions of me, and each version of me can find one that can relate to the customer,” he said. “It's all about them, the customers, to walk out of here with that jacket or outfit on and just be happy. You didn't buy clothing, you just bought something that just makes you feel good, and that's the revolution.” t

I have so many different styles and versions of me, and each version of me can find one that can relate to the customer. It's all about them, the customers, to walk out of here with that jacket or outfit on and just be happy. You didn't buy clothing, you just bought something that just makes you feel good, and that's the revolution.

- BARONE

A Sacred Place for Community

Garden Sanctuary to Open Summer 2023 in Blowing Rock

STORY BY MADDIE LIPE

Tucked on a side street just off of Main Street in Blowing Rock, is a small plot of land that was destined to be a sacred place for the community.

What started out as a putt putt course and was once a little flower shop, is now a piece of land that has moved people, spiritually and emotionally.

Take Heart owner Sheri Furman said she was always drawn to the small piece of land on Sunset Drive and prayed over it for years before it became what it is today, the beginning of a prayer garden, named “Garden Sanctuary.”

The Garden Sanctuary’s story begins with Furman’s shop that was home to a beloved prayer tree which held the

prayers and wishes of those who came and went by the shop on Main Street.

The tree was well known to many locals and visitors alike, but one day gave the tree a whole new meaning.

“God restores more than you lose,” store employee Kathy Schlecht says to customers when she tells the story of the prayer tree.

June 26, 2019 is a day that Furman and so many other people who have visited or live in Blowing Rock will

remember for a lifetime.

That was the day that Bless Your Heart, now renamed Take Heart, burned to the ground due to an electrical fire, leaving the prayers on the tree untouched by the flames.

At the time of the fire, there were 14,000 prayers on the tree and when people heard the news, the prayers multiplied, reaching 42,000 before the town of Blocking Rock required Furman to take the prayers down a year later.

Pictured is the prayer tree that held nearly 14,000 prayers and stood outside Furman’s shop before the electrical fire. Photo submitted.

God restores more than you lose.

- KATHY SCHLECHT

- KATHY SCHLECHT

The prayer tree was a Blowing Rock staple to many residents and visitors.

Furman said losing the prayer tree was worse than losing her shop and after the rebuilding of her shop three years later, many still ask about the tree.

Now, Furman as well as Schlecht and manager Maggie Furman can tell those who ask that the prayers from the tree are restored in the walls and foundation of the new shop, but it doesn’t end there.

Furman plans to take the leftover prayers from the fire and put them in a time capsule to place in the Garden Sanctuary.

Schlecht said when she tells customers about the Garden Sanctuary, it’s emotional for many people.

“Some of the customers visit Blowing Rock every year, and they have a long history with the store and Sheri,” Schlecht said. “They have put prayers on the tree through the years, and they never forget that.”

“It means a lot to them that they are remembered,” Schlecht said.

Furman said she always felt connected to the land on Sunset Drive, but at the time she didn’t

know who owned the land so she kept praying over it.

The woman who owned the land reached out to Furman to let her know she was selling it because she knew how attached Furman was to the property, but at the time Furman was in the process of rebuilding her shop and didn’t have the funds.

The woman offered the land again to Furman and with the help of a mother and daughter who are long-time supporters of Furman’s shop she was able to make a down payment.

The mother and daughter were both moved by Furman’s love for the property and knew there would be something special there in the future. Their faith called them to donate, and they prayed with Furman over the land.

When Furman sat down with a close friend of hers and told her about the garden, the friend asked “what garden?” And Furman responded, “the one on Sunset.”

Furman said the words took her friend’s breath away because of the love her husband, someone who loved the town of Blowing Rock deeply and found it to be his home, had for the exact garden.

Furman’s friend donated money so that Furman could buy the garden in full as she wanted

The Garden Sanctuary currently has places for its visitors to sit and reflect, including this concrete bench under a shady tree. Photo courtesy of Angela Byers.

An inside perspective of the Garden Sanctuary behind the gates.

Photo courtesy of Angela Byers

The Garden Sanctuary is located at the headwaters of the New River. Photo courtesy of Angela Byers.

Some of the customers visit Blowing Rock every year, and they have a long history with the store and Sheri. They have put prayers on the tree through the years, and they never forget that. It means a lot to them that they are remembered.

of the garden up and give it back to the community as well as honor people’s loved ones.

Furman told the story of a young girl who was devastated by the loss of the prayer tree after she had to take it down.

One day Furman found the girl weeping beside what used to be the prayer tree with thousands of prayers, including her own, and Furman made a promise to give the girl a small garden, not yet knowing she would get to own the property on Sunset.

When Furman first got the keys to the gates of the garden she described an intense feeling holding her back from entering. That same day she received a text from the young girl, saying that she was in Blowing Rock and wanted to visit.

Furman took the young girl to the garden to show her that she had kept her promise and the girl was the first to enter. Furman followed shortly after and felt the intense feeling she had felt before subsiding.

“I wasn’t ever meant to be the first to enter the garden,” Furman said.

fountain and memorial stepping stones that honor people’s loved ones, who also loved the town of Blowing Rock. People will also be able to get memorial stepping stones made for their own loved ones.

Fuman plans to also have a cutting garden in the Garden Sanctuary where people can come and cut a vase full of flowers to deliver to someone they know who may be struggling.

So far Furman said the help of the community has been vital to the revitalization of the garden. The land surveyor and the Blowing Rock Baptist Church Youth Group donated their time and effort to the project.

Fuman welcomes anyone who wants to help with the Garden Sanctuary. One woman brought in bulbs so that her flowers could be planted in the garden.

“We would love anyone who wants to be a part of this to be a part of this,” Furman said.

“We don’t see it as ours, we see it as something very sacred to share,” Furman said. t

Prayers covered every vine and branch of the prayer tree. Photo courtesy of Angela Byers

The windows inside the small building on the property of the Garden Sanctuary that will soon be used as a small chapel. Photo courtesy of Angela Byers.

The sun shining through the opening to the bank of the New River headwaters, located in the Garden Sanctuary. Photo courtesy of Angela Byers.

Kinship Caregivers: Finding Support in the High Country

STORY BY ANNA BETH ADCOCK

Equipped with a mission to “provide advocacy, support and education for kinship caregivers and their families,” High Country Caregivers got its start in 2006 providing respite care to caregivers—with the hopes of helping them carry the responsibilities of their all-encompassing and time-consuming responsibilities.

“We want to offer support to these families,” said Jonathan Long, marketing and philanthropy specialist. “When we provide support for these people, they are able to do their jobs better and have more of a balance between their personal lives and what they’re doing—and what they’re doing is so important.”

HCC has values to create positive change, foster respect, remain committed to its caregivers, collaborate with other

organizations and professionals, operate with integrity and provide outlets for its kinship caregivers to rest and recharge.

While the organization began with a focus on respite care, it has since morphed towards helping families whose children have been displaced from their parents and end up going into the care of grandparents, aunts or uncles (i.e. kinship care), with special attention on pouring into the children. In most cases, children are displaced from their parents due to substance abuse, a death in the family or imprisonment—with the opioid crisis in Appalachia being a significant contributing factor to the situation.

And there are lots of children and caregivers to serve. The nonprofit currently serves six counties throughout

western North Carolina, including Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancy counties. And HCC has grown from working with 22 families to 188 families in the span of three years, now counting a total of 247 children as part of its program.

“Our goal is to provide the resources they need to carry on with a sense of normalcy,” said Long. “Inherently they

Gift bags provided by the Women's Fund of the Blue Ridge were given to help the grandparents of High Country Caregivers. Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

are at a disadvantage—not due to any fault of their own—but it’s an issue we feel needs to be addressed.”

To address these needs, High Country Caregivers offers myriad programs, resources and support to assist families towards emotional and physical well-being—helping keep children under the care of their family members rather than in the foster care system.

Its biggest program, titled kinship navigation, involves inhome counseling and therapy for families, essentially helping them connect the dots between needs and solutions. Think of services to solve physical needs: food insecurities, finding transportation or supplying diapers to emotional needs: family counseling and having a social worker reach out each month for a check-in.

“The clients become our family,” said Jacob Willis, High Country Country Caregiver’s executive director. “We normally follow these children through when they graduate from their highest level of education, and we will provide everything they need from essential items to their cap and gown.”

A few more significant services that the organization offers are a slew of recreational programs, from sports (Coach’s Kids) to outdoor activities (Eyes in the Wild) and opportunities to learn marketable and creative skills (The Learning Shack). To boot, High Country Caregivers assists with covering legal fees since many of these families are undergoing custody battles.

“One of our priorities in working with these families is creating a sense of normalcy, belonging and friendship,” explained Long. “The intent behind our programs is to keep the kids engaged in something other than their home and the problems they have to deal with on a daily basis.”

“Our hope is to help break the cycle of addiction,” added Willis. “And when you are 70 to 80 years old it’s hard to play football

High Country Caregivers youth visitng Grandfather Mountain. Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

Part of "The Learning Shack" program includes opportunities for the kids to create and glaze their own pottery. Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

One of our priorities in working with these families is creating a sense of normalcy, belonging and friendship. The intent behind our programs is to keep the kids engaged in something other than their home and the problems they have to deal with on a daily basis.

- JONATHAN LONG

in the yard, go hiking or take the kids on overnight camping trips, and we want to provide these children an experience that is similar to growing up in a traditional home… with the hope that these children don’t repeat the same mistakes as their parents.”

High Country Caregivers is a nonprofit organization that relies on fundraising and donors to offer these life-changing services. Find two fundraising events per year—a spring golf tournament and a dinner/auction—along with a dedicated team of donors and finding grants to fund specific programs (think recreation or substance abuse prevention).

“With our fundraising events, our goal is to try and get people in the community engaged—to meet us and learn about what we do,” said Long. And according to Willis, High Country Caregivers receives about 65% of its funding from grants, 30% from fundraisers and the rest from donors.

- JACOB

Looking ahead, High Country Caregivers hopes to expand its program, The Learning Shack, to be available across all six counties it serves. Currently, the program exists solely in Yancy county; offering specific programs in an array of disciplines that encourage kids to attend and learn all types of skills: from welding and wood shopping to pottery, baking and jewelry making.

“The goal of this is to give kids the opportunity to find a spark with something that they will really enjoy and feel passionate about,” said Long. The Learning Shack is scheduled to expand into Avery and Watauga counties within the year with the hope of reaching all six counties by 2026.

According to Willis, the organization has another goal to add two more social workers to the team (currently, the team touts four full-time and three part-time employees). And the organization hopes to continue growing its team from there by

High Country Caregivers youth visit Grandfather Mountain as part of a weekend camping trip with their "Eyes in the Wild" program.

Our hope is to help break the cycle of addiction. And when you are 70 to 80 years old it’s hard to play football in the yard, go hiking or take the kids on overnight camping trips, and we want to provide these children an experience that is similar to growing up in a traditional home… with the hope that these children don’t repeat the same mistakes as their parents..

WILLIS

In October of 2022, many of the youth got to experience the wildlife of Appalachia at Grandfather Mountain. Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

A youth participant works on her sewing skills during a "The Learning Shack" program. Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

involving members of the community and expanding its volunteer base.“We get the job done around here, but we will not complain about more hands,” he said. “We want to establish a healthy volunteer base.”

Want to lend a hand? HCC always needs volunteers for its two annual fundraisers and around the holiday season—and people helping out around Christmas might get the fun job of wrapping and organizing tons of gifts.

In addition, the nonprofit is always seeking people willing to help move essential items from one place to another on a whim and mentors who will show up and build relationships with the kids—especially male volunteers.

And all the time, effort, fundraising and care that the staff at

An important aspect of "The Learning Shack" program is giving kids the opportunity to learn marketable skills for a positive route into adulthood.

Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

HCC pours into its families is not lost on them. Donna Miller, a grandmother raising her four grandchildren, has been involved for about eight years and she cannot recommend the nonprofit enough. Miller and her husband have been raising her oldest two grandchildren for almost 17 years and the youngest for about eight years.

“It’s a fantastic organization,” Miller said. “They came in and helped us when we needed it the most—it’s very hard when you’re older and you think your life is ready to slow down, then here you are with these children that you love with all your heart and want to take care of… it’s hard financially and it’s hard emotionally.”

Miller emphasized the emotional support that HCC offers to both child and caregiver—and how beneficial it is to create relationships with other people in the program who have gone through similar experiences, to encourage each other and to share resources.

“My daughter was on drugs and her kids came to live with my husband and me,” explained Miller. “And we went to court and got custody because we could not leave them in that situation.”

High Country Caregivers youth on nature adventures with Tal Gaton for the "Eyes in the Wild" program. Photos courtesy of High Country Caregivers

Since Miller and her family have gotten involved, she has seen how the organization has changed and evolved “for the better.” And something that has meant a lot to her and her children is the sense of comradery coming from HCC.

“My kids see that we are not alone,” she said. “There are others like us and they don’t have to feel different. They make friendships that last and they feel like they fit in—and that’s been such a huge encouragement to me.”

Janie Barnwell is now the legal guardian of her 14-month-old grandson, who she got custody of when he was only three weeks old when her daughter was unable to care for him— and HCC helped her pay the lawyer fee when the family went to court for custody.

“The organization has just been a godsend,” said Barnwell. “When you get custody of your grandchild—especially when it’s unexpected—you’re starting over from scratch. High Country Caregivers has supported me in the little things and the bigger things, from finding a crib to navigating legal things, and they are just the sweetest community of people who truly want to help.”

Amy Barker, a caregiver who got started with HCC within the last year, echoed the sentiments. “High Country Caregivers is amazing!” she said. Barker has two kids, a ten-year-old boy and an eight-year-old girl.

“We adopted our kids six years ago,” Barker explained. “I was a foster parent to their biological mother and I also watched her grow up. One day she called me up to babysit and she never came back.”

Thanks to HCC, Barker’s daughter is able to be involved in gymnastics, and the family has participated in tubing trips, picnics and other gatherings.

“This year was the best Christmas we’ve had in a very long time,” Barker said. “I’m just shocked that there is a program out there for families like us. HCC makes things possible—and I don’t know how they do it!”

Want to get involved or learn more about HCC? Visit highcountrycaregivers.com for more information. t

Employees from HCC and Hunger & Health Coalition take part in the yearly Christmas present drop-off.

Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

During a visit to Mayland Community College, kids got to explore career opportunities and programs that they provide. Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

Kids with High Country Caregivers learn many valuable life skills through its various programs.

Photo courtesy of High Country Caregivers

High Country EMT Ride Along

Screeching sirens generally cause one of four reactions for those within earshot. People may initially look to find out in which direction the sirens are coming from and then if they are being emitted by ambulances or fire trucks, checking to see if they’ve got to stop and allow emergency vehicles to pass or, finally, glancing quickly in the rear view mirror to see if they’re being pulled by law enforcement.

The sirens, while all attention-getting, can often represent several different agencies all responding to the same event. For instance, where there has occurred a major vehicular accident, fire or other emergency, law enforcement (police, sheriffs or highway patrol) vehicles might be joined by ambulances with Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) or Paramedics and fire engines. All of these 911-dispatched services exist for but one purpose, that being to help those citizens of the High Country when they are injured or involved in traumatic situations.

Basically, these dedicated services and the men and women who initiate contact are all in the business of saving lives.

Boone Base 1 EMTs and Paramedics, left to right: Julian Pereira, Jacob Starnes, Craig Sullivan, Jackson Lamb, Greg Bryant, Thomas Landrum, and Josiah Davis.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Craig Sullivan leads his crew to get to an emergency with Jacob Starnes.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

STORY BY PETER NORRIS

Among the front line personnel who initiate emergency medical services are Watauga County’s Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) whose mission is to first stabilize the injured party.

“The EMT System is a comprehensive system that includes the 911 Communications Center, First Responder Program, Advanced Life Support Emergency Medical Transport (EMS), and the Watauga Medical Center (primarily via medical direction),” explained William Holt, Director of the Watauga County Emergency Services System (EMS). “When someone calls 911, the communications center (a division of Emergency Services) answers and triages the call in accordance with approved

protocols. Based on the results of that call, first responders are dispatched for emergency-level calls along with Emergency Medical Services (EMS). If the call is not considered a life-threatening emergency based on the information received, EMS is dispatched without lights and sirens” he continued. “Quality assurance and training helps guide these decision-making processes along with national trends which shape the primary protocols followed for triaging the call.”

All first responders are trained as a North Carolina

Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), with a large number being Emergency Medical Technicians and others receiving higher levels of certification, which includes EMT Basic, EMT Intermediate, and EMT Paramedic. Paramedics have an additional 1500 hours of medical training over EMTs.

EMTs have extensive education and certification in a wide variety of emergency medical situations, including assessing critical illnesses and injuries and performing life saving health care such as working with heart attack victims and administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and assisting with childbirth and trauma.

Paramedics work with more

Ambulances take a night call from Boone Base 2. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Being a paramedic means being willing to provide comfort, care, and expertise to members of our community when they need it most. That can require calm confidence in the face frightening or even life-threatening injury and illness or just reassurance during routine encounters. It means recognizing the needs, great or small, of anyone who calls themselves your patient and working to see that those needs are met.

- PETER PICKERING, EMT

advanced medical situations such as administering oral and intravenous medications, monitoring electrocardiograms (EKGs) and performing tracheotomies.

According to Holt, “Watauga County contracts primary 911 transport services with Watauga Medics, Inc.

“This agreement is currently on a 7-year cycle. Watauga Medics also provides interfacility transportation as part of its business model. Secondary 911 transport services are provided by the Watauga County Rescue Squad, which is an all-volunteer service. There are many other first responder programs that do not do transport but provide care to patients while awaiting the ambulance’s arrival.”

While the emergency response system is a bit confusing

to laymen, it’s easily understood. When 911 is contacted, first responders are sent based on geographic location, as in when the Boone Fire Department is directed to Boone locations. Craig Sullivan, the owner of Watauga Medics Inc., heads the primary EMS transport for all of Watauga County.

Notes Holt, “Cost of emergency services differ. Watauga Medics, Inc. charges fees based on their contract and the service provided. First responder agencies do not charge any fees nor does Watauga Rescue if they transport a patient. The baseline funding for availability of services is provided by property taxes.”

Watauga County has three primary bases for county-wide coverage. Base 1 is located on West King Street in downtown Boone, Base 2 is located on Longview Drive in southern Boone near the hospital, and Base 3 is located on US Highway 321 North in Vilas. Additionally, a fourth truck has been moved to Blowing Rock’s Fire Station during the day as staffing allows. Lastly, the Town of Beech Mountain entered into an agreement with Watauga County to place a 24-hour ambulance in their town limits at the town’s expense. This is a joint venture between Watauga and Avery County, although it’s not routinely used as part of the county-wide system due to its remoteness.

Noted Holt, “The County is currently in the planning phase of adding a fourth permanent base east of Boone to assist in response times in that area. It should be noted that anytime an EMS unit is added to the system this helps the total system by increasing availability of ambulances and reducing the amount of times units are out of position due to being at the hospital.”

Understanding the full scope of Watauga County emergency services, there has been a belief that the Blowing Rock community has had some difficulty in which services to use. According to Holt, “This is a common misnomer. Prior to July 2022, the Blowing Rock Fire

Watauga Medics, EMTs, and Paramedics respond to a call from Blowing Rock. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

It is hard to put into words what being a Paramedic means to me. To put it simply, I think that's because it's so much more than just a job. It's a lifestyle that encompasses multiple different aspects of who you are.

- ANGELA SEELEY, EMT

Always on Alert

Havingspent sevenhours photographing EMTs in their work environment, photographer Peter Morris learned firsthand what it takes to be an Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic. Basically, it’s a hurry-upand-wait profession, Morris noted. “Emergency calls can come at any time day or night, sending ambulances on every conceivable mission. A baby being born enroute to the hospital, a heart attack victim clinging to life, a major traffic accident where the ambulances will be met by a variety of police and sheriff units and fire trucks, or non-emergency

situations where the passenger only needs transport to the hospital.

Bottom line, when not saving lives, the ambulance crews spend time preparing their equipment or washing their vehicles or eight or ten of them watching videos while enjoying pizza in a communal room at their base.

“It’s a warm and friendly gathering among co-workers who become an extended family to each other.” But as one Paramedic noted, “Even though we all sleep here, we never really sleep… always expecting the alarm to call us at any time.” t

Being an EMT to me is a job that is fulfilling, tough, and full of challenges. It’s a service that provides people with the comfort that help is always around the corner. If we can ever make someone who is already having a bad day feel a little better, it’s a good day.

- LENA KELBIE, EMT

Department contracted with Caldwell County to provide EMS transport service to the northern portion of Caldwell County due to its geographical remoteness. In July 2022, this service reverted to Caldwell County, and they now serve the same area as previously contracted for with Blowing Rock. This unit does not respond in the Watauga County portion of Blowing Rock. Without exception, Watauga Medics provides primary EMS transport service for all of Watauga County.”

While the varied emergency services available in Watauga County, as in other High Country counties such as Ashe and Avery, this insures all those in need are covered on a 24-hour basis.

Crews delivering a patient to the hospital. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Anthony Woodard and Maggie Adams prepare to load the ambulance.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Watauga Medic placing a neck brace on a patient in the ambulance.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

This service is essential for the community, and I deeply care about serving and helping people in their darkest days…being able to shine God’s light into the world one call at a time.

- ANTHONY WOODWARD, EMT

Craig Sullivan, of Watauga Medics, says, “Currently, not including the Beech Mtn truck, Watauga County has four 24-hour trucks and one 12-hour truck. These are all Paramedic level trucks and are staffed with 2 providers. Base 1 has a 24-hour truck and a 12-hour truck, Base 2 has two 24-hour trucks, one of which moves to Blowing Rock (as discussed above) and Base 3 has one 24hour truck.”

While the 24-hour status of Watauga County emergency stations ensures that local services will always have personnel atthe-ready to man vehicles, these conditions demand on-site accommodations for personnel.

“Currently, the permanent bases are all freestanding EMS stations. These facilities have living quarters similar to fire stations and other such facilities around the county. The Blowing Rock and Beech Mountain trucks share space with these respective fire departments,” noted Sullivan. “There are 15-fire departments that service Watauga County. Many of these departments have more than one station to serve their respective districts. In addition, the Watauga County Rescue Squad operates out of its station located on Quail Street, in Boone.”.

Julian Pereira and Craig Sullivan study skeletal structure in a classroom at Boone Base 1. Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Celebrating 132 Years as the Grand Dame of the High Country. Listed on the National Historic Register and members of Historic Hotels of America

The job is hard and requires more than you have to give more times than not. I love taking care of people. Working 24-hour shifts, often with no sleep, maybe a meal or maybe not. We are expected to be at our very best each call no matter what we have faced that day. We have to see and do things that brings everything from joy to nightmares for days, months, years. When so many people have the misconception that every heart that has stopped beating can be brought back by medics is a grim reality that is most often not the case. There is no better feeling knowing that you were able to make someone's bad day better.

- VERONICA SHELTON, EMT

Angela Seeley, EMT

“It is hard to put into words what being a Paramedic means to me. To put it simply, I think that's because it's so much more than just a job. It's a lifestyle that encompasses multiple different aspects of who you are. For me personally, I always knew I wanted to have a career in medicine; I just didn't know what that would look like. After both of my parents passing in 2013 and 2014, and dealing with different aspects of medical emergencies, I began to piece it together. I went to ride time at Watauga Medics in order to obtain my EMT Basic, and I was certain that this is what I was meant to do. I then understood the saying, ‘Love what you do, and you'll never work a day in your life.’"

Anthony Woodward, EMT

Perhaps this is an appropriate time to hear from Watauga County’s EMT’s themselves as they reflect on their vital jobs.

Peter Pickering, EMT

“Being a paramedic means being willing to provide comfort, care, and expertise to members of our community when they need it most. That can require calm confidence in the face frightening or even life-threatening injury and illness or just reassurance during routine encounters. It means recognizing the needs, great or small, of anyone who calls themselves your patient and working to see that those needs are met.”

Pickering continued, “Providing prehospital medical care means that you are trusted by your community simply for the job that you choose to do. In accepting that trust you take on a responsibility that is often overlooked or ignored by those you are there to help, until their hour of need. Nonetheless, it is a responsibility that motivates you constantly to improve and prove yourself worthy. In EMS, you are only as good as the care you provide your next patient.”

“We EMS personnel don’t always receive the recognition we deserve. This is because we are the ones people don’t want to think about needing. Usually when we show up things have gotten about as bad as they can. We’re the ones that run into your home with bags and equipment and work like mad to save you or someone you love and hopefully get them to the hospital alive.”

Woodward continued, “If we are unable to save them then we are the ones that sit with you on your couch and explain that your loved one is no longer with us and hold you as you grieve. To do this job you will experience things daily that will wrench your heart and things that will warm your heart. Things that will make you cry both tears of hurt and joy. Sometimes you feel like crying but you’re numb and nothing happens. We put everything we feel on hold to do our jobs then we clean our ambulances and restock and feel what we need to for a brief minute while driving to the next call and smile like nothing ever happened when you get out and greet the next people who need you. ”

Watauga Medics, Justin Mack, Christy Taylor, and Joe Petrone, at the Blowing Rock Station.

Photo by Peter Morris and Shirley Hollars

Lena Kelbie, EMT

“Being an EMT to me is a job that is fulfilling, tough, and full of challenges. It’s a service that provides people with the comfort that help is always around the corner. If we can ever make someone who is already having a bad day feel a little better, it’s a good day.”

Veronica Shelton, EMT

“The job is hard and requires more than you have to give more times than not. I love taking care of people. Working 24-hour shifts, often with no sleep, maybe a meal or maybe not. We are expected to be at our very best each call no matter what we have faced that day. We have to see and do things that brings everything from joy to nightmares for days, months, years. When so many people have the misconception that every heart that has stopped beating can be brought back by medics is a grim reality that is most often not the case. There is no better feeling knowing that you were able to make someone's bad day better.”

Shelton continued, “Nothing compares to giving that scared elderly person comfort with that 2:00AM 911 call; they just want their vitals taken to know everything is ok. We go into every call having to think on the fly and having to think out of the box. There is no 912, there is just 911 and that is you. So many tragic things happen that the rest of world only reads about or sees on social media. We are there on the best and worst days of a stranger’s life, sometimes we can make it better and sometimes we have to find the words to tell them it's not going to be ok. Being a Medic is not a job you clock out, go home and leave work at work. I've had calls that to this day wake me up at night, they come with so many demons. The moment where I can make a difference in someone's life is what keeps me hanging on and fighting through the bad days. I have a huge extended family through my job, fireman, first responders, law enforcement. Without those ladies and gentlemen, I could not do my job!”

It's no doubt an exciting life for Watauga County’s many emergency service men and women, who day and night stand available to respond to situations which, in many instances, can result in the saving of lives both young and old. t

Ashe County Young Professionals:

Build, Connect, & Contribute

STORY BY HARLEY NEFE

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Three years later, communities are still seeing the lasting effects of that global event. However, since then, groups have been emerging to overcome the challenges.

One group in particular is Ashe County Young Professionals, which is sponsored by the Business and Community Development Committee of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce. According to its description, ACYP is a program designed to create a meaningful network of dedicated, talented young professionals aged 21-45 in Ashe County.

“We realized that there were a lot of groups during Covid that were impacted, and we would argue that that 21-45 group probably suffered socially as much as anyone else,” explained Rebecca Greer, Board of Directors Vice Chair and Chair of the Business and Community Development Committee.

Greer further shared that the Business and Community Development Committee actively seeks new ways to support the business and local community in Ashe County. Some of its sponsored programs include Leadership Ashe, Connect Ashe, Small Business

Consulting Group, as well as Ashe County Young Professionals.

ACYP began around two years ago when an idea from an Ashe resident at the time, Harrison Little, was presented in an executive meeting to Kitty Honeycutt, who is the Executive Director of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce.

“ACYP was created to help young people find likeminded connections to form worthwhile personal connections,” said Joshua Biggers, ACYP Committee Moderator. “Groups of people with the same objectives are stronger together.”

Harrison Little asked if there was a way to form the group through the Chamber, and the conversations were started.

“Our focus as Business and Community Development Chair is we want to provide resources and guidance to make sure we are adhering to what the Chamber’s mission is, but at the same time, we want ACYP to have autonomy,” Greer said.

The Ashe County Young Professionals' mission is to create a platform for members to build professional and personal relationships, become philanthropically and socially active, and contribute to the high quality of life in Ashe County.

“This is something that is greatly needed in Ashe County, and we have big hopes for this committee to finally come to fruition,” said Bailey Little, Committee Scribe. “ACYP’s former leaders all had the same hopes and desires for the group but had to step

ACYP was created to help young people find like-minded connections to form worthwhile personal connections. Groups of people with the same objectives are stronger together.

- JOSHUA BIGGERS

down due to other personal commitments, which we completely understand. We are happy to say that the committee is once again under new leadership, and there is a game plan for the group to have wings and take off.”

Bailey Little serves as a co-leader of ACYP along with Joshua Biggers. The both of them have been collaborating with Kitty Honeycutt and Rebecca Greer.

“Both Mrs. Honeycutt and Mrs. Greer are extremely supportive of young professionals in Ashe and want to see us succeed/develop our own ways to socialize and get involved,” Little said. “We believe that now, with the involvement of a steady number of committed members, ACYP will be able to be on the path to reaching its true potential and becoming a representation of the young professionals in Ashe County.”

Greer mentioned that her vision for the future of ACYP is increased membership.

“I think there’s a lot of people who don’t have an understanding of what a professional is,” Greer said. “I like the way Joshua talks about that because he says anyone can be a professional in whatever their position is, whether you’re running the drive-thru at McDonald’s or you’re working at the college. Anybody can be a professional where they are, so I would like to see a more diverse group in ACYP.”

Biggers further explained, “A young professional is someone who carries themselves with divinity and self-respect. It’s a person who puts 110% into their job regardless of what their job encompasses. Anyone can be a professional; it is all in your personal mindset. If you want to be a professional and carry yourself as a professional, then you are a professional. A professional is not a label that is given, but a descriptor that must be earned. It’s about seeing your goals, going after those goals, and letting no obstacles stand in your path.”

Laura Piselli, who was born and raised in Ashe County, works as a registered nurse and is also an ACYP member. She said she considers herself to be a young professional.

“I am 26, which I think is considered pretty young. However, I think youth is a state of mind,” Piselli said. “And I am a person with professional goals, interests, and passions, but I think being a professional is also a state of mind. Whether you have a career outside of your home, or you are a homesteader, whatever you are doing is worthwhile if it gives you a sense of purpose, and you are doing it with mindfulness and care.”

ACYP prides itself on offering social events where people are encouraged to meet others and build connections. Pictured in the front row, from left, are Laura Piselli, Dolly Reaves, Holly Epley, and Bailey Little. In the back row, from left are Joshua Biggers and Jason Barker.

ACYP is sponsored by the Business and Community Development Committee of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce. From left: Bailey Little, Natasha Romans, Megan Rupard, Joshua Biggers, and Sam Holmes. Photos courtesy of ACYP.

One of ACYP’s newest members, Jeff Carlton, has been living in Ashe County full-time since August of 2020. He underwrites commercial insurance for Jackson Sumner & Associates and shared that he identifies as a young professional as well.

“I consider myself to work in a professional field and to still be pretty young,” Carlton explained. “I just turned 30 this month, but when I look to my mentors, in my field and in my life, they are great examples of how hard it is to define ‘young.’ Sometimes there is a negative connotation. For instance, you may consider someone to be inexperienced, but I prefer a definition that includes a passion for life – in the sense that I’m striving to be a young professional for a long, long time.”

Carlton said he is passionate about

culinary explorations and outdoor recreation, and the beauty of the area is what caught his attention in addition to the wonderful people that he has had the fortune of getting to know. He learned of ACYP through an invitation from another member.

“Since the community and the county have treated me so well, I feel like it’s my duty to be an active member in any way that I can,” Carlton said.

“I hope to connect with, learn from, and share unique experiences with other area professionals, be it through charitable opportunities, social events, or professional networking. I believe it to be very important to uphold community values and to work towards a more prosperous and positive future.”

Piselli found out about ACYP through Little, who has been her friend

since middle school.

“I decided to join this group because I believe in the power of community. Community is a resource. It is something that can be so grounding for people’s day to day lives, therefore having an impact on their mental health and the way they may function in times of crisis,” Piselli said. “It can also create a ripple effect if we choose to use the power of community for the common good. ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ is such a wonderful saying that I think should also be applied to various stages of our life. It takes a village to make career choices. It takes a village to move to a new house. It takes a village to get through a break up. It takes a village to find my unique role in the big picture. It takes a village to get through life!”

The level of peace and the comforting

Since the community and the county have treated me so well, I feel like it’s my duty to be an active member in any way that I can. I hope to connect with, learn from, and share unique experiences with other area professionals, be it through charitable opportunities, social events, or professional networking. I believe it to be very important to uphold community values and to work towards a more prosperous and positive future.

- JEFF CARLTON

The natural beauty of Ashe County is what attracts many people to move to the area. Photo courtesy of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce.

sense of knowing everyone in the small town are some of Piselli’s favorite aspects of Ashe County.

“Finding a sense of community in a county like this is not difficult,” Piselli explained. “You need only to be willing to put yourself out there. I love how friendly everyone is, and the culture of Appalachia, which is difficult to sum up, but I would say people here take pride in where they are from. Their family trades, southern hospitality, and being tough yet loving people. Passing people in the store, folks say hello and ask how your family is doing. Even as I am driving up my road to my house people will give the infamous ‘finger wave’ as they pass by. The beauty of the mountains is a close second favorite part of living here. There is no place more beautiful in the world to me than the meadows, mountains, streams, and hollers of the Blue Ridge. Hiking trails, kayaking the New River, or simply sitting in my backyard on a beautiful day is as close to paradise as I can think of in a place like this.”

Biggers, who has lived in Ashe County for nearly four years and appreciates experiencing all four seasons and the

Jason Barker, Communications Coordinator for ACYP, can be found posting flyers around town inviting people to get involved in the community. Photo by Joshua Biggers.

WHAT IS ASHE COUNTY YOUNG PROFESSIONALS?

WHO WE ARE MEMBERSHIP

THe Ashe County Young Professionals (ACYP) group is a program designed to create a meaningful network of dedicated, talented young professionals ranging in ages 21-45 in Ashe County.

OUR MISSION

THe Ashe County Young Professionals' mission is to create a platform for our members to build relationships both professionally and personally, to become philanthropically and socially active, and to contribute to the high quailty living in Ashe County.

THe cost to join ACYP is an annual fee of $30 for Ashe County Chamber members and $40 for non-Chamber members. Your membership includes invitations to all gatherings.

many outdoor activities, also heard of ACYP through the word of mouth grapevine.

“I saw a group that had a lot of potential but lacked some direction, and they were in need of someone to take a leadership role, so I volunteered,” Biggers described. “Being a professor, it is my job to see what students are capable of and then showing that to them and making them want to achieve

-

BAILEY LITTLE

it. Getting through to us young people can be a daunting task, but I like a challenge so I accepted the role.”

Little joined ACYP in April 2022 when she attended her first meeting after hearing about the group from one of her friends who was a member.

“I was instantly intrigued and contacted the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce for more information and upcoming meeting dates,” Little shared. “As a young professional, it sparked my interest to hear of such a group in our community. Growing as a leader is something that I make an effort to work on in both my personal and professional endeavors. I believed

From left: Sam Holmes, Abbey Holmes, Bailey Little, Dolly Reaves, Laura Piselli, Katie Krogmeier, and Joshua Biggers. Front: Jason Barker. Photo courtesy of ACYP.

Growing as a leader is something that I make an effort to work on in both my personal and professional endeavors. I believed that by joining this group as a member, I would grow as a leader and be able to give back to my community, which is also something I am passionate about.

that by joining this group as a member, I would grow as a leader and be able to give back to my community, which is also something I am passionate about. When I joined ACYP, I never imagined that I would end up being one of the leaders of the committee or that it would happen so quickly. However, I am happy to be in this position and have the opportunity to help build the foundation and complete the groundwork for its future.”

Jason Barker, who is the Communications Coordinator for ACYP, also joined last year.

“I am happy to be back this year with a new set of people, a new outlook on how we would like to approach keeping our members involved for the long haul, and new things that we hope to accomplish,” Barker said.

Little further explained that the redefined mission of ACYP, first and foremost, is to get out and socialize.

“We are still experiencing some lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Little said. “It was a long two years where people of all ages experienced loneliness and felt shut off from society. Some of us still fall victim to that rut, especially if we get into the routine of only going to work and coming home. We need an extra layer of socialization, in addition to our relationships with coworkers and families. ACYP can be that!”

Piselli added, “It’s important because loneliness and lack of purpose is something we all can experience. Post-college life can leave people floundering because no one is laying it out for you anymore, and it is your time to make life what you want it to be. You aren’t surrounded by people with similar interests and struggles anymore. A group like this can assist in that transition period and provide purpose and community.”

Members of ACYP meet regularly to discuss community and social issues, build relationships, and plan events to benefit needs in the county.

“I hope members gain friends first and foremost,” Biggers said. “Next, I want them to gain a feeling of fulfillment in helping people around Ashe.”

The group gets together around two to three times each month.

“We at the Chamber all agree that what ACYP is doing right now – building those connections, having those social events, getting back out together

We at the Chamber all agree that what ACYP is doing right now – building those connections, having those social events, getting back out together – is really key. The goal in mind is for them to be contributing back to Ashe too, whether it’s through volunteer opportunities or organizing events, but we understand that that base, that familiarity, and those friendships have to happen first.

- REBECCA GREER

Ashe County Chamber of Commerce staff, from left, include Kathleen George, Natalie Lea, April Colvard, and Kitty Honeycutt. Photo courtesy of the Chamber.

Bailey Little and Sam Holmes are proud members of ACYP, and they look forward to others joining the group. Photo by Joshua Biggers.

– is really key,” Greer said. “The goal in mind is for them to be contributing back to Ashe too, whether it’s through volunteer opportunities or organizing events, but we understand that that base, that familiarity, and those friendships have to happen first.”

Barker shared that there is a reason why socializing is a big part of the group.

“Those who work together should also enjoy having a good time together,” Barker said. “A work/play balance is very important in life and can sometimes be hard to achieve. Having social outings as a group creates a reward program also, which helps to keep members involved and doing things together. Those who do not wish to participate in the community outreach events, will not get to enjoy our social outings. Social outings become a privilege – one earned through involvement and consistency.”

To help build those friendships, members of ACYP have participated in various activities together like escape rooms, game nights, and enjoying each other’s company at local restaurants.

“We do need to make sure that we are compliant with regulation since we are a subcommittee of the Ashe Chamber of Commerce,” Little said. “In the past, there was a big focus at ACYP meetings on everything we needed to be working on or doing. It is great to be community involved, but we do not wish for this committee to overwhelm people or add to the stress everyone is already experiencing as they navigate careers and personal lives. We do want to give back

The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association that serves as the unified voice for nearly 500 member businesses, individuals, and nonprofits in and around the High Country. Photo courtesy of the Chamber

In honor of Friday the 13th, Ashe County Young Professionals put their minds and skills together to complete the spooky challenge of beating the Escape Room at Great Southern Gothic in 55 minutes. Photo courtesy of ACYP.

to the community, of course, but we plan to do this realistically and do not want it to be the sole focus of our meetings/social events. We will all work together as a group to plan projects to benefit the Ashe County community using all of our talents, connections and skill sets.”

And all members of ACYP come from a wide variety of backgrounds. For example, Little has lived in Ashe County for 16 years, as she moved to the area from her hometown of Key West, Florida, during the summer before 4th grade. She attended Appalachian State University, and now works as an Administrative Assistant at the district level for Ashe County Schools.

When asked what her favorite part about living in Ashe County is, Little answered, “The people and sense of community.”

“It brings a sense of comfort to know that when you go anywhere, there is a possibility you will see someone you know,” Little said. “It warms my heart when I see people helping each other, whether it be holding the door open for people or covering a portion of someone else’s grocery bill when they are short on money. Even if people do not know you personally, they will often still smile and wave or greet you in some fashion.”

Barker, who is an entrepreneur, moved to Ashe County six years ago after he fell in love with living in the mountains back when he attended Western Carolina University. He agreed with Little about the appeal to Ashe County.

“The laid back atmosphere, the small town feel, and the amazing people that I have gotten to know since I moved here are the best parts,” Barker said.

The overall sense of community in Ashe County is what inspired a lot of members to participate in ACYP.

“ACYP is a great opportunity for young people to meet new like-minded individuals,” Barker described. “I also believe that with the outlets we have in the area for young people to do things, an outlet that allows them to brainstorm on ways they can help the community, and then take action to make those things happen is very important. This helps them work as a team, turn ideas into actionable accomplishments, and grow as people. Members get a chance to grow as people and feel like a part of something bigger than them, and the community gets to reap the rewards of this group, as our goals are to give back to the community in as many creative ways as we can come up with.”

As far as future events, there are many upcoming opportunities where members will be able to get involved in the community and contribute, such as by working with local food pantries and Generations Ashe.

“I would like to see a wide range of opportunities for serving the community,” Carlton shared. “Such as, but not limited to, river clean

ACYP is a great opportunity for young people to meet new like-minded individuals. I also believe that with the outlets we have in the area for young people to do things, an outlet that allows them to brainstorm on ways they can help the community, and then take action to make those things happen is very important.

- JASON BARKER

Great Southern Gothic is an Escape Room and Curiosity Shoppe located in West Jefferson that was established on April 4, 2015. It’s nearing its 8-year anniversary, and ACYP encourages others to support local businesses like this one. Photos by Bailey Little.

ACYP will soon be an everyday term around Ashe. When people see a sign, they will say, ‘I know them; my grandson helps them.’ ACYP is important because the youth are the future. That’s not just an expression, it is a fact. We have to help the youth find ways to help and connect with the local community, and this is the best avenue. ACYP aims to develop meaningful and purposeful relationships between the future leaders of Ashe County.

- JOSHUA BIGGERS

ups, food drives, and planting flowers at the hospital, parks, and other public places. There are also opportunities for coat drives, assisting in vocational programs, and tutoring/mentorship. Anything that can be done to help any segments of the community that are under-served – I think we need to show up for them. Whether it’s drug treatment, inmate services, promoting health screenings, providing educational programs for financial literacy, or advocating for nutrition and wellness, I think the possibilities are endless.”

In order to decide on what community service events to partake in, it’s a team effort – members discuss potential ideas and work together to reach out to various community leaders to plan out the best options.

“The purpose of ACYP is to work with local businesses and organizations to boost the economic development needed to propel the next generation into success,” Barker said. “It’s to work as a group to accomplish our goals, to learn how to work together for a greater good, and to shape the future of this place we call home. We are young, intelligent, and filled with drive. We plan to put our minds and bodies behind doing things that are helpful to the community while also growing ourselves. Members will gain skills in how to communicate, how to work as a team, and hopefully along the way, how to develop a sense of comradery.”

Carlton agreed and said, “I would like to see this group evolve into a successful well-oiled machine that serves the community and its members alike. ACYP is a diverse group of individuals eager to make a positive impact in their community and in their own lives.”

Greer shared that she looks forward to when she sees the group be recognized for who they are in the community and the impact that they are making.

“I want to hear people out in the

community talking about ACYP and telling others about it because they need to be involved,” Greer said. “That’s what I want to see because I think then we’ll truly see the impact, and we’ll see more people involved and being part of the community.”

As far as the future of ACYP goes, Biggers shared that his vision is to see a path for younger generations.

“ACYP will soon be an everyday term around Ashe,” Biggers described. “When people see a sign, they will say, ‘I know them; my grandson helps them.’ ACYP is important because the youth are the future. That’s not just an expression, it is a fact. We have to help the youth find ways to help and connect with the local community, and this is the best avenue. ACYP aims to develop meaningful and purposeful relationships between the future leaders of Ashe County.”

Barker added, “My vision is to see this group create a way forward for those who will come behind us, to lay the groundwork for what this group

will grow to become, and to use this group as a vehicle for creating our future negotiators and change makers.”

When speaking about his fellow group members, Barker said, “I can see many great talents in each member, and I look forward to seeing them use those talents to help push our message and to do great things in the community.”

With everyone having different experiences, Biggers explained that “each member of ACYP brings their own flare. Each member offers their own ideas, which allows ACYP to be multifunctional as well as multidimensional.”

However, ACYP couldn’t have formed without the involvement and dedication of leadership and members alike.

“I am appreciative of our leaders taking on the challenge of running this group in their already busy lives, and I am very appreciative of how positive and kind everyone has been so far,” Piselli shared. “It has already helped

People are encouraged to experience Ashe County's four-season climate, charming towns, and unforgettable natural scenery. Photo courtesy of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce.

me to meet new people, make new friends, and have a new sense of purpose. I hope to continue to make new friends, be a friend to others, and spread some joy and love throughout this community by helping others and just enjoying life together.”

Little added, “I would like to say that I appreciate my fellow group members. I appreciate their trust and them believing in me. One of our group members has told me repeatedly that they are so happy that Joshua and I took over the group and that it is here in Ashe County. So far, as a group, we are enjoying getting to know each other and sharing ideas of what we can do to support local businesses and organizations. It is really special that people in their 20s and 30s are both present and future-minded and want to make a difference in the county they live in. I admire everyone’s passion for their professions as well. We have a diverse group of people with knowledge in various fields. I think that is a strength, and I am excited to see what we will accomplish by working together.”

For individuals who are interested in joining Ashe County Young Professionals, they are encouraged to contact Joshua Biggers at joshuaacyp@gmail.com or Bailey Little at baileyacyp@gmail.com to learn about the process. People can also learn more about ACYP by visiting the social media

platforms @ashecoyoungprofessionals on Instagram and Ashe County Young Professionals on Facebook. There is an annual fee of $30 for Ashe County Chamber of Commerce members and $40 for non-Chamber members to join ACYP as well as an application form. Membership includes invitations to all gatherings and ACYP events. For more information, call the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce at 336-846-9550.

“This group cannot be successful or reach its goals without dedicated members who have a passion for serving Ashe,” Carlton said. “I would encourage anyone who is making a life in this community to take a moment and find a way to give back through service. If ACYP doesn’t feel like that right fit, find what is, but if you’re even mildly interested, come join us for a meeting and help shape our future.”

Little extended Carlton’s invitation and said, “We want to continue 2023 strong and begin the transformation of this group into what we as a collective would like it to be. We want to allow those who are interested and dedicated to the committee and its future success to be as involved as possible. Come to our next meet up, introduce yourself, share your ideas, and have fun!” t

It has already helped me to meet new people, make new friends, and have a new sense of purpose. I hope to continue to make new friends, be a friend to others, and spread some joy and love throughout this community by helping others and just enjoying life together

- LAURA PISELLI

Ashe County welcomes all to come and explore downtown West Jefferson. Photo courtesy of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce.

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Congratulations to the 2023 Sugar Mountain Adult Race League Participants!

STORY BY HARLEY NEFE

Skiers and snowboarders were out on the slopes battling it out to be crowned champion, as the 2023 Sugar Mountain Adult Racing League’s 17th season officially came to its conclusion.

SMARL, which is co-sponsored by Ski Country Sports and Sugar Mountain Resort, is designed to bring together recreational skiers and snowboarders for weekly competition and camaraderie. The league is open to all skiers and snowboarders ages 21 years and older, offering an opportunity for folks to socialize and participate in a winter activity everyone enjoys. Athletes of all talent levels are invited to be involved.

Each team competed with six to eight racers, and the times of the top four finishers on each team counted towards the team score for racing nights. Each skier and snowboarder were given two runs down the slope, and their fastest time was the one that counted. Platinum was four points, gold was three, silver was two, and bronze was one. Points were then added up after each night to determine a league champion at the conclusion of the racing season.

Team Sugar took the final lead for ski teams with 118 points, earning the High Country Cup. Members of this team included Gunther Jochl, Sean McKee, Wesley Aldridge, Ross

McNeal, Erich Schmidinger, and Andrew Jochl.

Ski Country A came in at a close second with 113 points compiled by Carrie Smithey, Billy Leonard, David Orr, Clint Hendricks, Caila Leonard, Lawson Fields, Chris Leonard, and Matt Leonard.

For snowboarding, The Tavern won with a total of 107 over the six weeks of races. Teammates were Alex Broussard, J.P. Cogdill, Chris Austin, Sean Pepin, Matthew Herdklot, Erich Schmidinger, A.J. Dulan, and Adam Thompson.

Other teams who competed throughout the season included Banner Elk Cafe, and Good Ole Boys for skiing and Ski Country D and Skin Suits for snowboarding.

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and a special thank you to all of the racers who participated in the 2023 SMARL season. Additionally, a shout out must be made for the race course crew and operators who were responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the courses throughout the season.

A lot of time and effort goes into SMARL each season from many different people to ensure races run smoothly, and it is much appreciated. Everyone is already looking forward to racing again soon! t

Team Sugar. Photo by Josh Floyd

Team The Tavern. Photo by Josh Floyd

The 17th season of SMARL concluded on February 13th. Photo by Josh Floyd

Lyn Sappington Cindy Giarrusso

Karen Cleghorn John Heinlein

Linda Cramblit Tracy Simms

Jay Coble

Paige CarterJeanne Robinson Tim Gentry

Hanse Kohler

Brett Baldwin John Thomas

John Rice

David Cook

Hope Caroselli Tripp Garrison

Becky Morgan

Amanda Moffatt

Rick Goodwin Jim Lewis

Hope Harvey Kaitlin Crawford Stephen Holland

Beverly Clark Breanna McKay Lisa Holmes

Victoria Hudson

Tom Gidley

Sandi Dascoulias

Byron Proffit

Michelle Hammond

Patricia Combs

Todd RiceBill Aceto

Mary Rupp

Andrew Plyler

Jim Perry