HC Magazine August 2014

C ruisin ’

105 The Foscoe Stretch HWY

McFarland Publishing The Town of West Jefferson Bill Leonard’s Family Business August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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DI A N N E DAVA N T & A S S O C I AT E S Excellence By Design Since 1979

B A N N E R E L K , N O RT H C A R O L I N A P O RT S A I N T L U C I E , F L O R I D A

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High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

Piedmont Federal Savings Bank salutes the service of scholar athletes.

Sponsored by:

The hands of App State scholar athletes swing, pitch, shoot, throw, catch, and block. They also give back by painting, digging, cleaning, building and helping local community service organizations.

Piedmont Federal is proud to serve the App State and High Country communities for over 40 years and welcomes new chancellor Dr. Sheri N. Everts to the Appalachian State community.

1399 Blowing Rock Road | Boone, North Carolina 28607 | PH: 828.264.5244 | piedmontfederal.com MEMBER FDIC Š2014 Piedmont Federal Savings Bank

Boone’s Premier Tile Showroom

Come See Our New Showroom Space!

Owners Trudy and David Shell

STore HourS: Monday - Friday: 8:30am to 5pm Saturday: By Appointment 1852 H w y. 105, Bo one • 828-265- 0472 • w w w.Mo un t a inT il eNC .c o m 2

High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

new store

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August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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C O N T E N T S

18 Like Entering a Fairyland

Ashe County’s largest town ensures major streetscape upgrades to keep its old-time small-town American aura that so many try to replicate. West Jefferson feels welcoming and somewhere worth exploring.

30 McFarland Brings Books to Life

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Meet Robert McFarland Franklin, the man behind the magic of the local book publisher McFarland Publishing. Learn about the life and times of Franklin, his journey to where he is today and what really goes into printing some of the High Country’s most famous titles.

Your Kicks on the High 38 Get Country’s “Route 66” N.C. 105, built in 1956 during the peak of the car culture, has invited tourists to travel through the High Country for decades and has become the area’s version of the iconic Route 66. Explore the businesses that dot this historic highway and learn why N.C. 105 is one of the last great two-lane drives in the United States.

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56 A Family Affair

HIGHWAY 105

For the Leonard Family, business goes hand in hand with family everywhere but the dinner table. More than 30 years after opening the doors of their first business, the family oriented view on work still rings true.

66 RedTail Mountain Takes Flight

The Habermehl family breathes new wind under the wings of the RedTail Mountain Golf Course to create an exciting and refreshing High Country destination for locals and tourists.

56

72 What Lies Beneath the Surface

The artwork of nationally acclaimed abstract painter Herb Jackson currently adorns the walls of The Art Cellar Gallery.

His complex process of application and removal serves as a process of discovery similar to the life experience itself.

94 A Literary Legend Comes Home

For the first time in more than 70 years, High Country Native and best-selling author Tom Robbins returns home to Blowing Rock and the mountain community that so magically shaped his childhood.

on the cover jordan nelson Jordan Nelson, owner of Nelson Aerial Productions captured this photo for us using his aerial imaging.

Jordan is able to give you those unique shots that can only come from above.

See more of his work at: www.nelsonaerials.com 6

High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

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READER SERVICES ABOUT US

The first High Country Press newspaper was published on May 5, 2005, and the first issue of High Country Magazine went to press in fall 2005. In March of 2012 the newspaper made the transformation to an online newspaper at our new website: www.HCPress.com. Our new “webpaper” is still packed with information that we present and package in easy-to-read formats with visually appealing layouts.

Our magazine represents our shared love of our history, our landscape and our people. It celebrates our pioneers, our lifestyles, our differences and the remarkable advantages we enjoy living in the mountains. Our guiding principles are twofold: quality journalism makes a difference and customer care at every level is of the greatest importance. Visit our website to see our publications and we’re always open to hear your comments and suggestions. Thanks for reading us!

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

Our magazine is a wonderful way for businesses to advertise to our readers. Our magazines tend to stay around for a long time, on coffee tables and bed stands, and shared with family and friends. To find out about advertising, call our offices at 828264-2262.

As the manufacturer

of some of America’s finest down pillows, comforters, and featherbeds, we’re proud to call the High Country home.

Visit us to learn how we make our down products and browse one of the largest selections of fine bed linens found anywhere . . . from France, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, and around the world . . . and enjoy something from our home in yours.

from

our home

to yours

BACK ISSUES

Back issues of our magazines are available from our office for $5 per issue. Some issues are already sold out and are no longer available.

Photography and page reprints are available for purchase. For sizing, prices and usage terms, please call our office. Some photos may not be available and some restrictions may apply.

FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Writers and photographers may send queries and samples to the editor at hcmag@highcountrypress.com.

© 2014 Peacock Alley Corsica

PHOTOGRAPHY

®

Contact us at:

High Country Press/Magazine P.O. Box 152 1600 Hwy. 105 Boone, NC 28607 www.hcpress.com info@highcountrypress.com 828-264-2262

natural. comfortable. home.

9452 NC Hwy. 105 S

between Boone & Banner Elk

800.833.3696

Linens.com

www.dewoolfson

August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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FRO M T H E PUB L ISH ER

A Publication Of High Country Press Publications Editor & Publisher Ken Ketchie Art Director Debbie Carter Contributing Writers Madison Fisler Lewis Jesse Wood Travis Miller David Coulson

Here They Come!

F

Ken Ketchie

or the 115th year, Appalachian State University will open its doors on Aug. 19 for this year’s estimated enrollment of 17,000 students ready to start the fall semester. Also on hand will be some 900 academic staff and faculty ready to get these kids back into the classroom and then another 1,500 full and part-time support staff working to help them get settled into another year of college life.

Those are big numbers adding up to a bunch of people calling the High Country home for the upcoming 2014-15 school year. It also adds up to a lot of money coming into the local economy, providing jobs and income for many people. With ASU’s appropriated budget set at $127,908,903, it’s easy to see how the university has an enormous economic impact on the town of Boone and the surrounding High Country.

But Appalachian State University’s impact doesn’t stop there. Besides the economic numbers, there’s also the entertainment, arts and cultural events that ASU brings to the table. This year, students and locals alike will be treated to a number of cultural events hosted by the university. Thanks to the university we can look forward to the North Carolina Symphony with the Appalachian Symphony on Oct. 7, Los Lobos on Oct. 23, LA Theatre Works on Nov. 11, RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles on March 4 and Koresh Dance Company on April 17. And for those who are wondering, tickets for all of the 2014-15 Performing Arts Series events will go on sale on Aug. 19. Keep in mind that these are just the “headline” events, there will be many more programs and events that the local community can attend and be a part of.

Also starting this fall, we will get to see our new chancellor in action. Dr. Sheri N. Everts settled into her new job this summer and now we will be watching as she begins to leave her mark on the university. Soon we will see the tone she sets for the coming year and how she deals with the issues and challenges that will arise in her first official semester at the helm of North Carolina’s fifth largest university.

And for football fans this year, we’ll get to experience the ASU football team taking its place in the big leagues, making the leap to the highest rank of college football: The NCAA Division I Football Bowl Division (FBS). ASU’s move to the Sun Belt Conference begins on Aug. 30 with a game against Michigan at “The Big House.” This will be the team’s first trip back to Ann Arbor since that remarkable day in 2007 when ASU football accomplished what is still known as one of the biggest college football upsets of all time.

So here it comes . . . the enormous energy that Appalachian State University brings to the High Country. Life sure picks up momentum after a relaxing High Country summer when the kids are back in town, even though it does seem we get slowed down a bit by all the extra traffic. Welcome back App State!

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High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

Bernadette Cahill Harris Prevost Contributing Photographers Frederica Georgia Jordan Nelson Finance Manager Amanda Giles Advertising Director Jeffrey Green

SHARE WITH FRIENDS You can share our magazine with friends that are out of town by sending them to our website. Just click on “Magazine” in the Menu Bar and that will take you to our online magazine where you can flip through an issue online - just like you would with a printed copy.

HCPress.com HIGH COUNTRY MAGAZINE P.O. Box 152, Boone, NC 28607 828-264-2262 Follow our magazine online where each issue is presented in a flip-through format. Check it out at:

HighCountryMagazine.com Reproduction or use in whole or part of the contents of this magazine without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Issues are FREE throughout the High Country. © 2014

by High Country Press. All Rights Reserved.

August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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Calendarof Events

AUGUST 2014

High Country Beer Fest, August 30

14

High Country Trolley Wine Tour, Erick’s Cheese and

14

Concerts in the Park Presents: Sharkadelics,

15

Concerts on the Lawn Presents: Soul Benefactor,

15

Concerts on the Lawn Presents: Shane Chalke’s BE Jazz Band and Todd Wright, The Jones House,

Wine, Banner Elk, 828-898-5605

Tate-Evans Park, Banner Elk, 828-898-8395

The Best Cellar, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9703

Downtown Boone, 828-268-6280

15

15-17

Music in the Valle Presents: Dashboard Hula Boys,

Valle Crucis Community Park, www.vallecrucis.com

Fine Art & Master Craft Festival, Downtown Banner

Elk, 828-898-5605

16

Art in the Park, American Legion Grounds, Blowing Rock, 828-295-7851

16

Mountain Home Music Presents: Bluegrass Attack,

16

16-17

Harvest House, www.mountainhomemusic.com

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23-31

Todd Summer Music Series Presents: The Tillers, Cook Park, Todd, www.toddnc.org

Grandfather Mountain Camera Clinic,

17

Music on the Veranda Presents: The Harris Brothers,

19

Appalachian Documentary Series: Hazel Dickens,

21

Concerts in the Park Presents: The DeLuge,

21

Peter Pedroni Memorial Charity Golf Tournament,

22

Music on the Lawn Presents: Lucky Strikes,

22

The Green Park Inn, Blowing Rock, 828-414-9230

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, 828-295-9099 Tate-Evans Park, Banner Elk, 828-898-8395 Boone Golf Club, 828-265-5434

24

Concerts in the Park Presents: Whip Daddys,

29

Music on the Lawn Presents: The Harris Brothers,

29

Concerts on the Lawn Presents: David Childers and Dashboard Hula Boys, The Jones House, Downtown

30

The Jones House, Downtown Boone, 828-268-6280

31

31

22

Watauga County Arts Council: The Artfull Palette,

23

Mountain Home Music Presents: Mountain Love Songs, Old and New and a Fiddle Too, Harvest House, Boone,

Valle Crucis Community Park, www.vallecrucis.com Boone, 828-264-1789

www.mountainhomemusic.com

High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

Tate-Evans Park, Banner Elk, 828-898-8395

The Best Cellar, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9703

Boone, 828-268-6280

Music in the Valle Presents: Zephyr Lightning Boys,

Music on the Veranda Presents: Todd Wright Jazz Quartet, The Green Park Inn, Blowing Rock,

28

Concerts on the Lawn Presents: Steve Katz,

22

Ensemble Stage Presents: Completely Hollywood (Abridged), Blowing Rock School Auditorium,

30

Grandfather Mountain, www.grandfather.com

828-414-9230

The Best Cellar, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9703

Grandfather Mountain State Park Family Day,

828-414-1844

Grandfather Mountain, www.grandfather.com

10

Artist Reception at Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery, 828-295-0041 High Country Beer Fest, High Country Fairgrounds,

www.hcbeerfest.com

Mile High Kite Festival, Beech Mountain, 800-468-5506 Mountain Home Music Presents: The 60s Folk Music Revival, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Boone,

www.mountainhomemusic.com

31

Sunday Concert Series Presents: Ciompi Quartet,

31

Music on the Veranda Presents: The Harris Brothers,

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, 828-295-9099 The Green Park Inn, Blowing Rock, 828-414-9230

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hardinjewelry@gmail.com | 828-898-4653 August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

Calendar, cont. All Your TAilgATing SEPTEMBER 2014

5

Music on the Lawn Presents: Supa Tight, The Best Cellar, Blowing

needs in one PlAce We specialize in Unusual Collegiate Tailgate Items, Serious and Unique BBQ , and Deck, Pool and Boat Entertaining

Rock, 828-295-9703

5

Concerts on the Lawn Presents: Lazybirds and Sound Traveler, The

Jones House, Downtown Boone, 828-268-6280

5

Music in the Valle Presents: Folk and Dagger, Valle Crucis

Community Park, www.vallecrucis. com

6

6

6

Art in the Park, American Legion

Grounds, Blowing Rock, 828-2957851

Grandfather Mountain KidFest,

Grandfather Mountain, 828-7332013

Todd Summer Music Series Presents: Melissa Reaves,

Cook Park, Todd, www.toddnc.org

7

Music on the Veranda Presents: The Neighbors, The Green Park Inn, Blowing Rock, 828-414-9230

12

Music on the Lawn Presents: Klee and Mike, The Best Cellar, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9703

12

Concerts on the Lawn Presents: Traditional Music Showcase, The Jones House, Downtown Boone, 828-268-6280

12

Ashe Arts Council Presents: Gallery Crawl, West Jefferson, 336-846ARTS

13

Second Saturday Studio and Gallery Hop, Blue Ridge ArtSpace,

Boone, 828-264-1789

14

Music on the Veranda Presents: The Harris Brothers, The Green Park

Inn, Blowing Rock, 828-414-9230

19

Music on the Lawn Presents: Soul Benefactor, The Best Cellar,

Blowing Rock, 828-295-9703

21

Music on the Veranda Presents: Pop Ferguson Blues, The Green

Park Inn, Blowing Rock, 828-4149230

26

Music on the Lawn Presents: The Harris Brothers, The Best Cellar,

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West Jefferson 1400 Mt. Jefferson Rd., Suite 6

Blowing Rock, 828-295-9703

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Autumn Group Exhibition Opening Reception, Carlton Gallery, Foscoe, 828-963-4288

August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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mountain

echoes

The Dande Lion Hosts ‘Breast Buddies’ Fundraiser to Support Breast Cancer Patients Throughout September

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tainly can. We are planning to have hroughout the month of Sepabout 15 bras in the contest.” tember, The Dande Lion, located in Banner Elk, will Currently, The Dande Lion is seekhost the first ever “Breast Buddies” ing more businesses to decorate bras and fundraiser in honor of the owner’s be a part of the fundraising contest. long-time friend who was recently “Interested businesses can contact diagnosed with breast cancer. us to get involved,” Deavers said. “We have a packet ready for them that “It all started because my long time gives them the guidelines and procefriend, who also works here at the dures. We would love as much comDande Lion, was diagnosed with breast munity participation as possible. This cancer,” said Jane Deavers, owner of all goes back to the community, so if The Dande Lion in Banner Elk. anyone would like to get involved, The fundraiser will challenge lowe would just love that.” cal businesses to decorate bras donatThe contest will take place the ed by The Dande Lion in any theme entire month of September, and a dorelated to their business or the fight nation will be made on Oct. 1 to the against breast cancer. The decorated Linda Vanna and Jane Deavers Wilma J. Redmond Fund just in time bras will then be displayed as part of a contest in the Dande Lion, where customers and supporters can for the kickoff of National Breast Cancer Awareness month.

For more information about the Wilma Redmond Foundation, vote for their favorites by placing donations in the box correspondplease visit www.apprhs.org. For more information regarding the ing to each bra.

“It is a bit of a contest, but of course everyone wins,” Deavers “Breast Buddies” fundraiser at The Dande Lion, please contact said. “The minimum vote is a dollar, but if you want, you can Linda or Jane at 828-898-3566. The Dande Lion is located at The make donations for whatever you want: $50, $500, whatever Shoppes at Tynecastle at 4501 Tynecastle Highway in Banner Elk.

By Madison Fisler Lewis they want. If you want to vote for more than one bra you cer-

“Songs of the Heart” and “Autumn Group Exhibition” Opens Sept. 27 at Carlton Gallery

I

sis, Astarte, Diana, Hecate, Demeter, Kali, Inanna: chants, songs, poems and phrases from the heart often land as the background in Toni Carlton’s art, celebrating life, transitions, heart openings, connections, oneness, spirit, finding voice, honoring directions and the elements, a ritual, a blessing or a prayer.

“Art as a Prayer” becomes the theme as the exhibition, “Art Songs of the Heart,” embodies the vibration of the voice within a painting. The written word in calligraphy resembles another languages, however, English is chosen for this collection of work.

Hand-woven threads of peace rep14

High Country Magazine

resent prayer flags merging both eastern and western philosophies that connect us to our heritage throughout time. Other chants include “We are the old people, we are the new people, we are the same people, wiser than before.”

The exhibition will run from Sept. 27 through Nov. 15 with the opening reception taking place Sept. 27 from 2-5 p.m.

The gallery is located 10 miles south of Boone and seven miles north of Linville on N.C. 105 in the Foscoe/Grandfather Mountain Community. For more information on artists, exhibitions or available workshops call 828-963-4288.

August / September 2014

Where tradition and taste come to life.

High Country Homes that are Different by Design

LiLuInteriors.com • 828.719.5700 August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

15

mountain

echoes

Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery Features the Works of Local Watercolorists Joe Miller and Wes Waugh

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tarting on Aug. 25, Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery will host a watercolor exhibit featuring the works of Joe Miller and Wes Waugh with an artist’s reception held Saturday, Aug. 30.

The exhibition of these local artists will continue until Sept. 6.

Joe Miller was born in the High Country and grew up working at Boone Drug.

After years as a pharmacist at what has been known as the center of the Boone downtown community, in the 1980s Joe bought a set of kid’s watercolors. After that, he took lessons under the tutelage of Noyes Capehart and eventually bought a real watercolor set, which he traveled to Winston-Salem to buy. In 1990, Joe started his own art supply store in Boone after adding a limited amount of art materials to the inventory at Boone Drug. Decades later, Cheap Joe’s Art Supply resides in a state-of-the-art workshop space with an outlet store. Joe Miller continues to produce some of the most highly regarded watercolor artworks in the state, some of which will be displayed at Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery during the exhibition.

Wes Waugh began painting at the age of 12 and is known as one of the region’s leading watercolorists. Wes studied with the likes of watercolorists Skip Lawrence and Cheng Khee-Chee and also studied with Joe Miller and Noyes Capehart. Alongside his art career, Wes has also worked as a product consultant and workshop instructor for Cheap Joes in Boone and is a program director with the Learning Assistance Program at ASU. Wes’ artwork is known for bold colors and techniques chosen to reflect the nature of his subjects. Both of these watercolorists will have works featured as part of “Field and Stream: Paintings and Creations from Their Collective Travels and Adventures” at Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery. The opening reception for this exhibition will take place on Aug. 30 from 5-8 p.m. Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery is located at 7539 Valley Blvd in Blowing Rock. For more information about this event and others held at the gallery, call 828-295-0041 or visit www.BlowingRockGalleries.com.

By Madison Fisler Lewis

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High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

People’s Choice

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• Licensed Pesticide Sprayer • Septic Tank Installation • Hydro-Seeding • Excavating • Boulder Walls • Waterfalls

Hwy. 105 in Linville at the foot of Grandfather Mountain 828.733.3726 | Design • Installation • Maintainance Member: NC Nursery & Landscaping Association August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

17

West Jefferson’s

Story by Bernadette Cahill

T

o enter West Jefferson at night-time is like entering a fairyland.

That’s the impression that Ashe County’s largest town gives during the drive off the foothills of Mount Jefferson into downtown once darkness has fallen, says Cabot Hamilton, Director of the Chamber of Commerce.

Cabot is referring to the effect of one of several major streetscape upgrades the town has made within the past 3-1/2 years.

While Jefferson Avenue was in the throes of a major refurbishment, “The town aldermen decided to work with the Blue Ridge Electric Co-op,” he said. “They took down the ugly streetlights all up and down the block – the big metal street lights – and replaced them with these very attractive aesthetic antique-looking town lights.”

Cabot may be focusing on night-time here, but the fairyland simile applies also to the daytime, because this gorgeous, thriving destination in the northwest corner 18

High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

Magical Transformation

Photography by Frederica Georgia of North Carolina is the kind of oldtyme small-town America that Disney spends many millions of dollars on to replicate. But West Jefferson is better than Disney: it is real.

It is hard today to picture what those big metal street lights actually looked like and it is hard to remember exactly how West Jefferson looked before the repaving of the roadway, the planting of trees, the replacement of traffic lights with four-way stops, the burial of power lines underground, the introduction of cross-walks and the extensions of the sidewalks at intersections, called “bump-outs.”

It is difficult because these details of the new-look downtown seem long-established fixtures which developed organically with the town. Meanwhile, West Jefferson feels welcoming and safe – somewhere worth stopping to explore.

Part of a Fairy Tale A variety of attractions create that urge to linger. One art gallery after another, each with a working artist to talk to; a batterie de cuisine boutique, inviting new creativity in the kitchen; a store for sampling specialty olive oils; a small-town hobby shop; clothing and shoe stores; and a used paperback bookstore: all these call out, “Stop! We’ve got to explore!”

When hunger or thirst strikes, restaurants in historic buildings offer a variety of meals and beverages. Outside once again, August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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an ice-cream shop offers the ideal to-go dessert, facilitating an easy downtown ramble or allowing a sit-down on one of the donated benches to watch the world go by. Off Jefferson Avenue, there are more art galleries to sample, a traditional hardware store complete with creaky floors to root around in, antique emporiums, a cheese factory, coffee shops, a real diner from the past and, on Wednesdays and Saturdays a bustling farmers’ market.

In addition, all during the summer, concerts take place in the park, while festivals such as the fiddlers’ in August, the literary, complete with book and quilt fairs, in September and Christmas in July punctuate the summer months, Dancing in the streets captures the spirit of West Jefferson’s celebration of the Christmas offering many diversions that appeal tree industry. With a mountain and heritage-building backdrop, Christmas in July attracts to countless tastes, while even before participants from everywhere, just for the fun.

Thanksgiving a holiday parade kicks of window displays – all these features, both natural and crafted, a series of wintertime festivities.

Overall, in fact, West Jefferson conveys a feeling of warmth, combine with the red brick of the buildings, the green of the hills of a place worth a stay. What is more, with Mount Jefferson and the pastel and bold hues of the fourteen murals that punctuwatching over downtown from every angle, and Paddy Mountain ate structures at unexpected locations, to make West Jefferson, further defining the valley which the town occupies; and with sev- no matter the time of the day, or even year, seem truly part of a eral other mountains establishing stunning views, the surround- fairy tale. ings point to potential diversions outside town.

Along with the delights of locally crafted pottery, of colorful The Magic Wand The fairy tale, in fact, is the story of how the upgrades in West quilts, of artworks in a large range of styles, and with the attracJefferson’s main thoroughfare came about. Back in October, 2003 tions of countless artifacts arranged in beguiling and entrancing 20

High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

(Top) New plantings and sidewalk extensions frame pedestrian areas and the mid-century townscape while protecting walkers from traffic.

(Below) Within sight of the junction of Jefferson and Main, countless stores provide a variety of browsing and shopping experiences, while Boonedock’s provides a great place to eat, drink and watch the world go by.

August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

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at a quarter of a million dollars. the West Jefferson community, So the town aldermen said, ‘Yes, working with North Carolina let’s go for it.’”

State University had developed During this process, the a wish list of everything they town worked with the Blue would like to do to improve the Ridge Electric Co-op to replace town. These community wishthe “ugly streetlights” with the lists come from meetings called “fairy” lights, while the power charrettes. company also put the wiring “No one thought they’d live underground. long enough to see it accom“That made a huge differplished,” said Cabot. ence,” said Cabot. “And all of However, a fairy godmother was watching over the town, in Jane Lonon, Executive Director, Ashe County Arts Council a sudden, old people like me, who thought they’d never live the shape of the North Carolina to see the wish list said, “Wow, they’ve done it!’”

Department of Transportation (NCDOT). “[Jefferson Avenue] is a North Carolina state highway. They were coming in to repave it,” said Cabot.

The Young Upstart The state pays for such major but prosaic works, which inThis magical transformation in West Jefferson’s appearance volve grinding down the old roadway before resurfacing. could not have occurred without the solid foundation created “They happened to see the charrette,” said Cabot. (For the early last century when the town appeared out of nowhere as the report, click to www.townofwj.com/PDF/West%20Jefferson%20 young upstart that became Ashe County’s primary center of comDesign%20Charrette.pdf) merce. Then, the town was just the vision of dreamers who had As a result, the NCDOT identified an opportunity to wave heard as early as 1909 that the railroad from Abingdon, built to a magic wand and transform what was then a dowdy town into support the Hassenger Company’s lumber extraction operations, a pleasing, pedestrian-friendly and pedestrian-safe one. This was planned to expand to exploit the seemingly endless stands of the where the stop signs and bump-outs came in. The DOT would county’s virgin timber. provide the extra money needed for the enhancements.

Jefferson – then more than a century old – seemed the logical The proposal was a no-brainer. “The town aldermen got to- stop for the train; but the Virginia & Carolina was primarily an gether. It was kind of hard to say no, not because it was the NC- industrial railroad and local speculators quickly spotted opportuDOT, but because they had a billfold,” said Cabot. “It was right nities for making money from it.

“It was wonderful … It was the people, the spirit, the reverence for history and heritage … that attracted [me] and many others to want to live here.”

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Cabot Hamilton (top), Director of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce and Jane Lonon, Executive Director of the Ashe County Arts Council have been involved in West Jefferson’s transformation, and both enjoy the improvements that public art has meant to the town.

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High Country Magazine

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August 13-15 Indigo Dyeing Susan Oliver Fennell & Janine LeBlanc August 16 Corey Anne Celebration of Women in the Arts Symposium & Indigo Dyeing Workshop

(top) Students learn how to paint at the Florence Thomas Art School on South Jefferson Street;

August 19-20 Market Basket Cathey Purvey

(CENTER) Frenchy works at his famous folk paintings in his studio; (BOTTOM) Raney Rogers welcomes visitors who hunt out her work on Long Street, at the Acorn Gallery, West Jefferson’s oldest artist owned Gallery.

August 21-22 Intro to Oil Sticks Paul deMarrais August 23 Intro to Pastels Paul de Marrais August 25-27 Persian Poetry Art Lenore DePree August 28-29 Color Theory Robert Way August 30

Perspective for Beginners

Robert Way

September 2-5 Drawing, Plein Air Elissa Gore

A Soft, Feminine Feel

10 S Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson 336-846-3827

www.FlorenceArtSchool.org 24

High Country Magazine

A partnership of locals came together at the end of 1913, said historian Gene Hafer, to consolidate the land in what was then a quiet rural valley in order to plan a brandnew town for the trains. The resultant West Jefferson, about two miles southeast of Jefferson, is one of the only towns in the east of the United States created to attract a railroad – not one that grew because of a depot already, if recently, established.

West Jefferson’s layout is different from early U.S. towns, said Gene, who worked with Raleigh’s Bientennial Commission in the 1990s and advises the board of the West Jefferson Centennial Commission in planning for the town’s centenary next year. Unlike Raleigh, which copies Thomas Jefferson’s favored masculine, angular grid style, “West Jefferson follows the contours of the land,”

August / September 2014

West Jefferson’s Centennial and The Fuzzy World of Facts

T

he West Jefferson Centennial Commission is trying to make contact with descendants of people who bought the original lots sold in West Jefferson 100 years ago, said Lynn Rees-Jones, coordinator of the Commission’s planning for the town’s centennial next year. There were 58 original purchasers, she said, and it is hoped to include their descendants in the commemoration of the founding of the town.

Email Lynn at wjcc.lynn@gmail.com.

The land sale took place in September, 1914. So, the question arises, why is the celebration not taking place this year? The simple answer is that while some documents and local lore point to 1914, analysis of events, plus scanty and conflicting documentation make it impossible to pinpoint it definitely in 1914.

Like so much history, West Jefferson’s beginnings belong to the fuzzy world of facts, where no one is totally wrong and everyone is partly right. The certainty is that on February 9, 1915, the North Carolina General Assembly passed, and the Governor ratified, the bill granting West Jefferson its charter.

The town celebrates its centennial, therefore, next year, in 2015.

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(TOP LEFT) Parker Tie Company is great for hard-to-get merchandise. Leon Miller has been with the company for about 8 years.

(TOP RIGHT) The mouse inside Ashe County Cheese. (BELOW left) On South Jefferson, the deck at Boonedock’s is a great boon to dogs. (bottom RIGHT) and artist Stephen Shoemaker opens up to art-hunters in his gallery. he said.

The lines rounded a hill and, unlike in most railroad towns where they charge straight through with commerce squarely framing each side, in West Jefferson they sported graceful curves on arriving and departing, with two more curves for the wye which allowed trains to turn round. These man-made additions echoed the curves of the earth – a sensitivity to the shape of the landscape which gives West Jefferson a soft, feminine feel.

Another difference is that the street where the early action was – Back Street – actually fronted the railroad, while the town’s planners designed a traditional, straight thoroughfare – today’s Jefferson Avenue – a block away. It now anchors commercial activity at the intersection with Main. This may 26

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August / September 2014

have been the planners’ back-up plan in case the railroad didn’t come, or died down the road. The Avenue is pleasingly broad and with the scale of the buildings in this open valley, it feels expansive. West Jefferson may be busy, but there’s plenty of room to breathe.

And so, apart from the town’s modern makeup, there have always been sound reasons to talk of it affectionately. As native, local artist and Alderman Stephen Shoemaker said, “I have a good friend [originally from Louisiana] and he’ll stop whatever he’s saying and close his eyes and say, ‘Stephen, I just love it up here. This is the best place…’”

Stephen himself stops for a moment. Then he continues, his voice reverberating with emotion, “It’s a very special place.”

No Little Hick Town Yet, not so long ago, West Jefferson looked jaded, having the air of many another rural town at the point of slipping into irreversible decline.

Stephen, who returned in 1997 after many years away noticed immediately that “it wasn’t thriving.

The town was dying.”

Such a decline might have taken the early town boosters by surprise, for West Jefferson took off like a rocket from the time of its creation, attracting all comers. Stephen remembers how, when he left in 1964, the Ore Knob Mine was still in operation, the Phoenix Chair company was in full production, there was a working hosiery factory and his Dad had the Belk’s store, opened in 1939. Kraft Cheese was also churning away as it had done for years, while during the big cattle markets, trucks would line Jefferson Avenue and the cows would holler and crowd the whole place out.

Then too, the Virginia Creeper – long since bought over by the Norfolk & Western Railroad – still chugged through, stopping to pick up miscellaneous freight, including the cows, while also carrying passengers on regular runs to Abingdon and for excursions during the leaf season.

“West Jefferson wasn’t a little hick town like some people may think it was. The Bowies built a big house here. Tam Bowie was one of the landowners and a state representative…” Bowie was also the lead founder of West Jefferson.

Ashe County’s Cheese Factory and Store make a striking show both indoors and out on East Main.

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“We don’t have a rush hour. We have a rush minute.”

- Cabot Hamilton, Director of Ashe County Chamber of Commerce in West Jefferson.

“We had the Graybeals, who had the Ford company,” continued Stephen. [All] these people had money and they had a lot of class about them. [The Graybeals] would play croquet on the lawn in their white suits and women their long dresses.

I remember that as a kid, watching them play croquet.”

By the end of the next decade, however, West Jefferson had changed.

The Mill Town without the Mill “I’ll take you back to the 70s,” said Cabot. “It was worse than sleepy. I heard somebody say [the town] looked like a mill town that the mill had left.”

John T. Shoaf, in The Heritage of Ashe County, 1799-1984, wrote, “We sure missed the train when it was taken off … It was a big loss…It served a good purpose.

It helped people to get something out of their timber. Also people raised chickens and turkey, which they dressed, packed and shipped on the train. I can remember the boys leaving on the train going to World War I.” “Cars and trucks [did] help us to carry on,” Mr. Shoaf allowed, but another onslaught was approaching.

“I remember coming back and Belk’s department store closed, Blackburn’s department store closed, some of the hardware stores started to close,” remembered Stephen. “A lot of businesses were just aging out. They all kind of grew up together …”

But now the old order was changing, and it hadn’t yet “yielded place to new” and West Jefferson in the 1990s was effectively depressed.

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Public Art and Revitalization Yet the seeds of revitalization had long before been planted and were beginning to sprout. Around the time the railroad pulled out for the last time, “that’s when Ben Long came and started doing the frescoes [in the Episcopal churches],” said Cabot. That brought tour buses and the early beginning of the interest in art.

“A couple of artists came and opened small galleries and it just kept going,” he said, for the churches, the fresco visitors and the new artists had recognized already West Jefferson’s small-town charm in spite of its threadbare appearance, said Jane Lonon who arrived in 1981, fell in love with it and stayed.

It had, she said, a quality and pace of life that many people are searching for.

“It was wonderful … It was the people, the spirit, the reverence for history and heritage … that attracted [me] and many others to want to live here.”

The drive and commitment of people like Jane, now Executive Director of the Ashe County Arts Council, helped to create a central role for arts in the community, building on what the Long frescoes had begun.

“The downtown murals, I think, were the first spark at what beautification could mean, what that could do for our community,” she said.

The murals, in fact, were another attraction for visitors and provided the impetus for more. (For the April, 2014 High Country Magazine story on the Ashe County Arts Council, click to www.hcpress.com/april-mag-2014).

It was around this point that the charrette rolled in, generating interest in more

August / September 2014

revitalization. The next few years led to the creation of the Back Street Park where summer concerts take place, the stairs to the remodeled library leading directly from downtown and the new facilities for the farmers’ market.

Meanwhile, in 2005, the town received a $20,000 Grant from the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center to plan for storm sewer upgrading, while in 2007, the town enrolled in the North Carolina Main Street Communities program, which among other benefits gives grants for the improvement of heritage building facades. West Jefferson’s unique combination of heritage properties from 1915 to 1957 also qualified for a listing in 2007 as a heritage district on the National Register of Historic Places.

Much was already in train, therefore, before the NCDOT came in to repave the road. But then, as if by magic, these different trends happily converged – along with “some nice, gift-wrapped money to make it happen,” said Cabot, adding that none of this would have occurred without co-operation among many organizations, businesses and individuals both within the town and at county level.

A clear measure of the success of all this work is the increased occupation rate of downtown commercial buildings.

“Before the bump-outs and what the town did over the past three years, there were multiple vacancies. Now I think only two buildings are vacant,” said Cabot. “[The transformation] has drawn retailers to the town because they like the way it looks. There are people walking the town day and night. You may have had difficulty finding a parking spot. Aesthetically it has

been a humungous improvement. It has been revitalized.”

In fact, the downtown West Jefferson’s streetscape won a design award from the North Carolina Small Town Main Street program in 2013, while today the community is trying to set up the next level of charrette with North Carolina State University, to determine what new heights to set its sights on in the first years of its second century.

Today, West Jefferson is home to sixteen art galleries. Besides the murals, the town’s “art on fire” project has transformed regular fire hydrants into whimsical characters and eye-catching splashes of color; the Florence Thomas Art School has located right downtown, the Arts Council spawns county barn quilts and tours, and between June and October, a gallery crawl takes place every month.

“We have accomplished a lot of what was on that original [charrette],” said Cabot.

“Now we need to decide what else we need [to do]. We need to take advantage of the motivation that’s out there to keep it going.”

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The Virginia Creeper Diorama The diorama of the Virginia Creeper Railway, a volunteer project depicting four communities on the route helps to clarify West Jefferson’s founding and history. It’s in the wonderful 1904 Ashe County Courthouse Museum in Jefferson. For railroad aficionados, this is where to plan a drive out of Jefferson to glimpse the remnants of the historic train route. The museum opens Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Phone 336-846-1904.

More To Do Outward Bound, Mount Jefferson offers hiking and ranger programs. The New River State Park at Waggoner Road is a canoeing access point, while nearby Zaloo’s Canoes provides river excursions. Horse-riding trails offer another way to experience the countryside, while golfers can play at Mountain Aire golf course; or at Jefferson Landing if staying at Jeremy’s Lodge. Ashe County Park offers a disc golf course. Shatley Springs Restaurant serves a family-style meal and offers old-tyme music on the weekends.

Several motels, bed and breakfasts or cabins provide accommodation. For further information, click to www.ashechamber.com.

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A Season of Southern Fried Funeral August 28-31 Ashe Civic Center

Wait Until Dark Ocober 17-19 Ashe Civic Center

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Tickling the Ivories August 16 Ashe Civic Center

Elliot Engel September 16 Ashe Arts Center

Malpass Brothers November 1 Ashe Civic Center

For more information call 336.846-ARTS Ashe County Arts Council, 303 School Avenue, West Jefferson, NC 28694 336.846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.org August / September 2014

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McFarland Carves Out a Unique Place In The Publishing World Photography by frederica georgia

Story By David Coulson

Robert McFarland Franklin

I

Books come rolling off the assembly line at the McFarland Publishing’s state-of-the-art print facility in Jefferson, N.C. 30

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August / September 2014

n 1979, Robert McFarland Franklin set out from New Jersey with the dream of starting a publishing company in the High Country.

Thirty-five years later, McFarland Publishing has carved out a place in Jefferson, N.C. as one of the most unique book publishers in America, bringing to life wealths of literature on numerous topics, while also developing its loyal customer base in areas such as American pop culture, sports and reference materials.

The company published five titles in its first year and has grown to over 7,000 books overall, with more than 5,000 still in print. From its humble begins, McFarland will publish over 400 new books in its anniversary year.

Franklin, who celebrated that anniversary with his staff on June 20, has one foot planted in the past and the other grounded in the future as he continues to guide this High Country institution with a hands-on attention to detail.

One example of this attitude is a tattered folder that sits on the top of a bookshelf in Franklin’s spacious office. A message in permanent marker on

“I’ve had a longterm view from the beginning. We have remained the same. My outlook on the company hasn’t changed in 35 years.”

Warehouse assistant Rory Collier pulls book orders in the McFarland distribution facility.

–Robert McFarland Franklin.

Founder the top of the overflowing, manila container reads: “This folder has been in continuous use since 1981.”

On a recent visit by High Country Magazine to the rustic, yet pristine facilities of the McFarland plant, located on N.C. 88 in the outskirts of Jefferson, Franklin was scurrying around from office to office, hand-delivering paychecks to his 57 employees.

The company founder has worked hard at building a relaxed, creative environment that is as refreshing in the publishing world as its titles are distinct to the hustle and bustle of most publishing houses.

“We enjoy that we are all a little eccentric,” Franklin said.

There was a recent Irish Juniper planting day at work, where Franklin encouraged employees to bring their shovels to the facilities to plant some new trees on the site.

The walls are lined with over 600 fine works of art that reflect Franklin’s taste, with a particular leaning towards regional artists and folk art. Every few years, employees get to request what particular paintings and art works are displayed in their individual offices.

“My biggest thrill is watching my employees develop. I want to have a place where employees feel special,” said Franklin. “And I try to have a personal relationship with our authors.”

The Memphis, Tenn.-born Franklin’s love of books began when he was just three. His five-year-old sister had already started school and she taught him to read and write.

“I was a precocious reader,” said the man who is called Robbie by employees and friends alike.

“Learning to read developed into a world of books for me.”

The son of two librarians, Franklin eventually landed at Yale University, where he earned a degree in English. He moved on briefly to Columbia University’s library school, but dropped out,

John Smith, the manager of warehouse and printing operations, displays a high-quality book cover designs prepared in-house. “I am the first person to ever open these books,” Smith said.

Director of sales and marketing Karl-Heinz Roseman takes a look at one of McFarland’s newest books in the production plant.

August / September 2014

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hitchhiked across 30 different countries in Europe and eventually found a job as an editor with a New Jersey-based scholarly reference book journal.

But Franklin had dreams of something bigger, aspirations that had been fueled by several visits to Ashe County to visit friends.

“By 1979, I had acquired a wife and decided to move here,” Franklin said.

“I wanted to start a weekly newspaper, but fortunately I did this instead. I decided ‘Why don’t I do what I know?’”

It didn’t take long for Franklin to realize he had found his home.

“I knew I had walked into a place, a realm, where I would never leave.”

Franklin had a well-refined idea for what he wanted to develop right from the start of his publishing career and has followed his instincts ever since.

“I’ve had a long-term view from the beginning,” said Franklin.

In terms of the books McFarland has published since its inception, “we have remained the same. My outlook on the company hasn’t changed in 35 years.”

What started as a publishing company that found a frequent audience with library sales has developed into much more.

McFarland has built an extremely loyal following over the years and has repeatedly found ways to stay ahead of customer reading trends. While much of the company’s business comes from its website these days (www.mcfarlandpub.com), many customers still rely on well-designed catalogs to keep abreast of new and old offerings alike.

“We have customers who will call us and say ‘I haven’t received my new catalog in awhile, when is the next catalog coming out?’” explained Karl-Heinz Roseman, the company’s director of sales and marketing.

A framed copy of the first order that McFarland received in 1980 for 20 copies of the book Dental Care in Society: The Sociology of Dental Health from the Amarillo College Book Store hangs on Roseman’s wall to show how far McFarland’s business has come.

The company has begun publishing nearly all of its new titles as eBooks in recent years, giving the publisher another way to connect with readers.

Among the customers who have purchased books over the years are such celebrities as Jay Leno (an enthusiast of transportation books), Dick Clark, Joan Collins, Jimmy Durante, Robert

McFarland publishes a wide array of books that cater to many different audiences, such as pop culture, film, music, history, transportation, women’s issues and sports.

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Goulet, Katherine Hepburn, Charlton Heston, Henry Mancini, Roger Moore, Leonard Nimoy, Martin Scorsese and Oprah Winfrey.

Just like a regular customer, the late Jerry Lewis used to phone in his orders personally.

“He always called me Mr. Phillips when I would take his orders,” said assistant sales director Adam Phillips.

George R.R. Martin has been a frequent customer of medieval military books as he has researched his hit television series Game of Thrones.

McFarland has also enlisted its share of prominent authors over the years, as well as some heavyhitting writers to pen book forwards.

Among that lineup are Lee Iacoca, James Arness, Burt Reynolds, Forrest J. Ackerman, Pee Wee Reese, Clive Barker, William C. Westmoreland, Richard Roundtree, Sir Edmund Hillary, Sally Jessy Raphael, Martin Scorsese, Keith Olbermann, Chuck Yeager, Desmond Llewelyn, Christopher Lee, Paul Tibbets, Paul Newman, Andrei Codrescu, Kenneth Anger, Ernie Banks, Martin Landau and Neil Gaiman.

Prince Charles — yes, the Prince of Wales himself — wrote a forward, appropriately enough, for a well-received book about polo.

You can find books in categories such as transportation, sports and games, pop culture, military history, medieval topics, graphic novels, body and mind, history, literature, women’s issues and African American interests.

While other major publishers cater to authors and books that will vie for positions on the New York Times best seller’s list, McFarland has been successful taking a different approach.

Franklin and his fine-tuned staff have managed to grow McFarland Publishing by finding cutting-edge subjects and taking chances on a variety of authors, new and old.

“Once an author publishes with us, we seldom lose them,” Franklin said, glowing with pride. “We are diligent pursuers, willing to take a loss with one book to build a line.”

There are lively acquisition meetings each week where the decisions are made for which projects to move forward on and which ones to reject.

Like most publishers, McFarland receives hundreds of manuscripts and even more proposals each year. At one time, the company published about one of every 10 manuscripts it was given. Now that ratio is about one out of four.

“We have a lot of courage sometimes on the books we publish,” Franklin admitted.

That is why you will see McFarland’s titles frequently emerging as trendsetters in the publishing world.

Where else would you find a series of books on zombies, vampires and other horror movie subjects before those topics became engrained in the pop culture?

If you want a book on Mexican masked wrestlers, or an overview of electric and hybrid cars, you

Assistant production manager Jessica Wilcox works on an edited manuscript for a soon-to-be published book.

McFarland’s state-of-the-art digital press runs 24 hours a day, five days a week.

The paper rolls hold seven miles worth of paper.

John Smith prepares paper for the next press run. McFarland can print as few as 25 copies of an individual book title, making storage of inventory easier to manage.

August / September 2014

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Large, beautiful wood and glass books shelves, containing all of the over 7,000 titles McFarland has published in 35 years line the hallways of this Jefferson, N.C. company. will find it on the shelves of the McFarland warehouse and distribution facility, across the street from the main offices.

McFarland added an on-site, digital press about a decade back that enables the company to print as few as 25 copies per run of any of its 5,000 titles that remain in print.

“One of the great things for an author publishing with McFarland is they know their book is probably going to remain in print and continue selling copies for many years to come,” said longtime acquisitions editor Gary Mitchem.

Emphasizing Mitchem’s thoughts are the finely finished wood and glass bookcases that creep throughout the main offices. These beautiful cases contain every book that McFarland has published during its 35 years, with more cases needing to be added every couple of years to include the newest titles.

The press now runs 24-hour a day, five days a week, with plans to begin printing books on weekends in the future, giving the company additional flexibility with its inventory.

Only hardbound books and oversized publications are now sent off-site for publishing.

McFarland is not just known for the quality of its titles, but also for its detailed approach at every phase of publishing.

A paragraph from the company’s website describes McFarland’s approach: “The books are manufactured to the highest specifications. They have the best design in the business, the best typography (with minutely reworked fonts for grace and easy reading), readabilityoriented editing, and the finest available printing (acid-free, strong opacity paper with extra-sturdy cloth, board and paper bindings).”

That emphasis on quality books and the standard that has 34

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August / September 2014

been set for creating a pleasant work atmosphere has succeeded for 35 years and is likely to continue paying dividends for a long time into the future.

“Every day is different around here,” said Franklin, who still bubbles with enthusiasm after all these years in the publishing business. “It is all such fun.” 

Founder Robbie Franklin has over 600 art items from his personal collection in the McFarland plant.

The Books of McFarland Publishing

By David Coulson

I

t was sometime in the early 1990s when I arrived one day for work as a sportswriter at the San Fernando Valley bureau of the Los Angeles Times in Chatsworth, Calif. and found one of my colleagues sitting at his computer exceptionally early.

“What are you doing here?” I asked sports copy editor Fred Eisenhammer.

“I’m working on a book,” Eisenhammer replied.

That was my introduction to McFarland Publishing.

Eisenhammer had signed a contract with McFarland to co-author a book titled College Football’s Most Memorable Games with a friend of his, Los Angeles Daily News prep sports editor Eric B. Sondheimer.

Subtitled The Stories of 54 History-Making Contests, this book was published by McFarland in 1992. Eisenhammer and Sondheimer, who has since moved to the Los Angeles Times as the prep sports editor and a sports columnist, decided to update that book with a second edition in 2010, including eight additional thrillers.

The cover of the 2010 edition was designed by a friend of mine, Mark Durr, and featured a photo of Appalachian State University offensive lineman John Holt, celebrating moments after Corey Lynch’s block of Michigan’s field goal attempt on the final play of the game sealed the Mountain-

eers’ stunning 34-32 victory in front of more than 109,000 fans in the Big House.

When Keith Cline, a longtime friend and a significant photographic contributor to my book Magic on the Mountain (Parkway Publishing 2007), snapped the iconic shot of Holt, I was standing on the field at Michigan Stadium just a few feet away.

Ironically, Eisenhammer and Sondheimer used my story for The Sports Network, where I was working as FCS Executive Director, as one of their sources for the story of what many still call college football’s greatest upset.

In its 35 years of publishing, McFarland Publishing has produced many significant works among the more than 7,000 titles it has brought to print — and now electronic media — with more than 400 books scheduled for release this year alone.

When I wandered the halls of the company’s headquarters in Jefferson, N.C. one morning in July in preparation for these stories, a worker was placing several books that had been published just that day atop a large wood and glass shelf in the McFarland lobby.

It is a ritual that is repeated most days at this

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35

productive plant.

McFarland published five titles in its first year of operation, the first being Dental Care in Society: The Sociology of Dental Health in 1980. The company followed with four other titles in that first year, Feminist Theatre Groups, Audiovisuals for Women, Films Ex Libris: Literature in 16mm and Video, and Free Magazines for Libraries.

Two of the biggest-selling and most groundbreaking works over the years have been Avis Rumney’s Dying to Please (published in 1983 and now in its second edition) and The Women of Afghanistan Under the Taliban (published in 2001).

Dying to Please, subtitled Anorexia, Treatment and Recovery, came out shortly after the death of popular singer Karen Carpenter, at a time when the public was attempting to understand a burgeoning health problem.

Rumney, a marriage and family counselor from California, who is herself a recovering anorexic, increased the knowledge-base of the subject to a significant degree and then expanded on that still further in the second edition, 25 years later.

Rosemary Skaine’s remarkable The Women of Afghanistan Under the Taliban, published before the events of 9-11, came out before most of the world even knew much about the Taliban, the vicious group of terrorists who not only dominated politics and culture in the region, but who were at that time plotting their stunning attack on America.

Both of these books are examples of how McFarland Publishing has often been ahead of the curve in getting significant material to its loyal readers.

Award-winning Chilean novelist Isabel Allende — the most-widely-read Spanishlanguage author — was at the forefront of a firestorm of protest when a group of parents tried to ban her book The House of the Spirits from the

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August / September 2014

reading list at Watauga High School last year.

The High Country Press was one of the main media sources that documented this fight over freedom of expression that received international attention and the ire of even Allende herself.

It brought to a broader light the outstanding Mary Ellen Snodgrass title Isabel Allende: A Literary Companion, one of a series of nine literary companions that the Lenoir-Rhyne University professor had penned at that time for McFarland.

When legendary actor James Arness was searching for a publisher to bring his autobiography to life, he settled on McFarland to publish the work, written with James E. Wise Jr. and containing a forward written by Burt Reynolds — one of the numerous actors who worked with Arness on Gunsmoke.

James Arness: An Autobiography is a fascinating read, chocked full of colorful stories of family (with tales of his brother, fellow actor Peter Graves, among others) and career.

McFarland is also known for its more encyclopedic endeavors in such areas as film, like Western Movies: A Guide to 5,105 Feature Films, a Michael R. Pitts book that is now in its second edition.

Another book in this vein is Buck Rainey’s The Strong Silent Type: More Than 100 Screen Cowboys, which looks at the careers of silent movie actors.

The publishing house has also found life in specific movie genres and is particularly known for its titles on zombies and vampires.

American Zombie Gothic: The Rise And Fall (And Rise) Of The Walking Dead In Popular Culture

by Kyle William Bishop takes a humorous look at the wide array of the living dead in films.

Many readers have grown to love McFarland for its voluminous group of baseball books and two of its many significant award winners are A Woman’s Work by noted author Dorothy Jane Mills and Kenichi Zenimura: Japanese American Baseball Pioneer by Bill Staples, Jr.

Mills, a widely-respected writer of historical fiction, education books, essays, cookbooks and children’s titles, who is still going strong in her 80s, tells the groundbreaking story of her research and writing — largely unrecognized — of the landmark series of baseball history books credited to her late husband Harold Seymour and published by Oxford University Press.

The Staples-penned Zenimura book traces the story of a Japanese baseball pioneer that many experts believe should be inducted for his significant contributions into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. Zenimura, who lived most of his life in my hometown of Fresno, Calif., played with Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, helped put together Ruth’s famous barnstorming tour of Japan in 1933 that sparked the start of the Japanese Baseball League in 1936 and constructed a literal “field of dreams” baseball field at the Gila River Internment Camp while he and other Japanese-Americans were imprisoned during one of the darkest chapters of America’s World War II history.

Japanese Baseball: A Statistical Handbook by Daniel E. Johnson, with its foreword by pioneering American star Wally Yonamine, is an example of statistical and encyclopedic works that have been so important to giving readers hard-to-find information.

In the area of sports history, McFarland has

constructed a larger presence in recent years in the pro and college football arena. One of many significant books is Ed Gruver’s The American Football League: A Year-by-Year History, 1960-1969.

Gruver, who is probably best known for writing one of the biographies of legendary Dodgers

left-handed pitcher Sandy Koufax, takes readers through the colorful events of the AFL, a story that many readers can’t get enough of more than 50 years after the earth-shaking inception that

changed pro football forever.

History is always a popular subject for McFarland books and military history is a particular strength of the company, whether it is Civil War titles, World War II studies, or other eras.

William T. Auman’s Civil War In The North Carolina Quaker Belt: The Confederate Campaign Against Peace Agitators, Deserters and Draft Dodgers brings to life a fascinating chapter of under told and understood regional history.

Horses and Mules in the Civil War: A Complete History with a Roster of More Than 700 War Horses

by Gene G. Armistead is an example of the quirky, but informative types of books that add to the information of one of the most popular periods of American history.

There are also plenty of stories to be told about other wars and Robin L. Rielly’s American Amphibious Gunboats in World War II: A History of LCI and LCS(L) Ships in the Pacific adds significantly to the genre.

McFarland has long been known for its scholarly and research-oriented titles and has also been a landing spot for regional authors, such as Appalachian State professor Richard McGarry, who penned Teaching English as a Second Language: Giving New Learners an Everyday Grammar.

These are just a few of the many and varied books that readers can find in the McFarland catalog. 

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High Country Magazine

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photo by FredERICA GEORGIA

Cruisin’ HWY 105

The

A

Foscoe Stretch

merica in the ‘50s and ‘60s was a culture on the road. Cars were affordable, gas was cheap and more unexplored stretches of road populated the country than ever before. Millions of baby boomers were the first Americans to be raised on drive-thru service, drive-in theaters, sweeping mall parking lots, hot-rod culture, roadside attractions and radio hits like “Beep Beep,” “Forty Miles of Bad Road” and “Cadillac Baby.”

Tourism became an enormous industry, and families packed into their cars and took to the road to explore the country and to live the myth of Route 66.

Locals suddenly found a gold mine in the booming tourism industry and unique, community-owned businesses sprang up around every bend. Travelers in this era were given the chance not only to see the landscape of America, but to meet its people firsthand as well.

N.C. 105, built in 1956 during the peak of the car culture, has invited tourists to travel through the High Country for decades, running along the general route of the original Tweetsie Railroad which operated between Linville and Boone at a time when the isolation of the High Country was such that the only easy way a person could get to the High Country was to be born there.

The Foscoe region of N.C. 105 is one of the few stretches of highway that has

Story BY TRAVIS MILLER | photoS by ken ketchie 38

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August / September 2014

photo by FredERICA GEORGIA

N.C. Highway 105 from Hound Ears stretching 6 miles toward Grandfather Mountain Photo by Jordan Nelson maintained that mid-century car culture spirit to this day – foreign license plates still dot the parking lots of the many communityran businesses. But the main thoroughfare between Watauga and Avery Counties is more than just a way to get from one side of the High Country to another - N.C. 105 is a memorable destination in its own right.

“Highway 105 is one of the last, great two-lane drives in America,” said DeWoolfson Down owner Richard Schaffer, who has operated on N.C. 105 for three decades. “There’s a great family-owned motor lodge; there’s a diner – all right out of the ‘50s. Compare it to 321 – It’s unspoiled … It just has maintained its original character, reminding me of the drive down Route 66 when I was a kid.”

Foscoe is certainly a unique area that has left a mark on decades’ worth of travelers. It’s more than just the valley that tourists travel through every vacation season – it’s a community of people that remembers your visit and looks forward to your return.

Foscoe certainly has its very own unique history, beginning as Foxx’s Cove generations ago when the Foxx family, the same family that bore current N.C. Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, first settled the area. All of the businesses that line N.C. 105 without exception have similar stories of days gone by, and have all etched themDowntown selves into the lives of the loFoscoe cals and endeared themselves to the hearts of the thousands

of visitors who make their way to the High Country every year.

Foscoe isn’t exactly a town, even though it boasts its very own fire department. It is more of an unincorporated community that trickles into the Grandfather Community, which is home to yet another subsection of interesting and exciting experiences. But even though Foscoe lacks official township, that hasn’t stopped the various businesses that call the area home from becoming endeared to the visitors that come through. “[The summer visitors] have definitely become our friends,” said Toni Carlton of Carlton Gallery. “They’ve come in and we’ve gotten to know them and we get an update about how their year has gone. I’m getting to know the grandchildren of our earliest clients.”

“We live in a fantastic area,” said Theresa Foxx, owner of Grandfather Mountain Nursery and a direct descendant of the family for whom Foxx’s Cove, now Foscoe, was Photo by Jordan Nelson named.

“This is heaven on earth in a lot of ways – I know there’s some really nice areas, but this has so much going on here.”

High Country Magazine has taken time to explore and to get to know some of the older landmarks of Foscoe – those who have operated on N.C. 105 for more than 20 years -- and have built a strong relationship with the community and the visitors that pass through each year.

August / September 2014

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DeWoolfson Down

Maw's Produce – 0.4 miles into Foscoe. Owned and operated by Susan Kirkland since 1994. Open May through December.

DeWoolfson Down opened for business in the early 80’s, manufacturing goose down comforters and pillows. Richard Schaffer, a veteran professor at ASU and one of the founding members of the International Business program, decided to create DeWoolfson as an international business project. From that point, he partnered with co-owner Marsha Turner and they continued to build and develop the business over the last 30 years, adding luxury linens to complement the comforters and pillows.

“As a result of my international experience and of my traveling, I took a very traditional European lifestyle of a more casual bedroom and brought it here … [I remember] my parents having a very heavy, formal bedspread. They’d take it off every night and lay on the chair – in Europe, things are very different.”

Quality down products are rare, both nationally and internationally, and require a very unique process for manufacturing.

“You can’t use just any textile – it has to be very specialized down-proof textiles and to this day, it’s only woven by a few mills in Europe … We still use some of those textile mills that are hundreds of years old.”

The quality and rarity of the products offered at DeWoolfson Down is matched only by the businesses’ history of personable, quality service.

“Back in the ‘80s, 25 years ago, customers used to come in and we’d actually be stuffing the comforters and pillows for them. If you came in and said it was too soft or too firm, I was the one to stuff it for you. That’s what it took in those days to build that relationship.”

Foscoe Rentals and Echota Sales – 0.8 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Mark & Missy Harrill since 2001.

It’s that relationship that has helped yield several loyal customers who have since become more family than clientele.

“We have many of the same customers and we’re now into the second and third generation of customers that come in. Customers that were little kids are now coming in with their kids … I’ve always believed in loyalty and long-term relationships.”

Schaffer, after decades of hard work, is able to take a step back from the business and relax. However, he still continues to apply himself. He and his wife volunteer at Linville Central Rescue Squad and have worked with more than 150 missing persons cases in at least five states.

“That’s kinda my way of paying back for everything that I’ve benefited from. That’s the way we pay it forward. That’s been our life.”

Mountain Dog & Friends – 1.1 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Cathy Johnson since 2010.

Many customers back at DeWoolfson Down still show, however, that he isn’t forgotten.

DeWoolfson customers haven’t forgotten him though ... “A lot of customers still come in and expect me to be in the backroom [stuffing their products] for them. It’s nice to know they still ask for me.”

Hidden Valley Motel – 1.2 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Jim and Maxine Harrison.

Toni Carlton, a High Country native, has been in charge of Carlton Gallery for 32 years. Originally named Woven Works, her business got its start as a fiber-weaving studio and eventually expanded into a large gallery containing the work of local, national and international artists who work in a variety of mediums.

Many of the artists featured in her gallery have been with her for decades, including Warren Dennis, Egi Antonaccio, Kevin Beck and others – all she describes as family.

Her clients, many of whom are seasonal summer residents, have also been with her for decades and continue to return each year.

“Some of my best clients now are the children of clients I had at Creekside and my early galleries. It’s not only a client sort of relationship – they’re our friends,” she said.

There is certainly a sense of community in her gallery. Her stu-

Carlton Gallery

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August / September 2014

dio, which is on the second floor of the gallery, is open to gallery goers, giving them an insight into her work and allowing them to see both the completed piece as well as the energy that goes into creating it.

Her art is mixed media and often incorporates fabrics and surface manipulation. Her more recent works have also incorporated calligraphy, ancient text, and various cultural symbols.

“Part of what my art is about is community. It kind of shows that we’re all connected through our hearts and represents our oneness – a few patterns are weaved together until they’re all connected.”

Her business has managed to stand strong throughout its years in the same curve of N.C. 105.

“I love what I do. Financially, it’s always been kinda up and down, but I think because I have a passion for art and I have a passion for the artists – who are like family – it carries me through.”

Hound Ears

OUR

0.0 MILE marker

FOSCOE MAP

BOONE

Starts at old shull’s mill road

4.3 Miles THAT WAY

This Stretch Runs 5.2 Miles

Twin Rivers Creekside Electronics

Maw’s Produce Salvation Army

Echota / Foscoe Rentals

Dianne Davant Interiors

Dianne Davant Interiors is owned and operated by Dianne Davant, an acclaimed interior designer who has done work for all leagues of clients, from small summer homes to castles and even Dolphins Stadium.

She got her start in the High Country, where she was born and raised. She first opened her business in Boone, then moved it to Blowing Rock and eventually settled in the Foscoe, where’s she’s been for more than twenty years.

“It’s a good, central location – very accessible. And because we’ve been here so long, we’ve found the most reliable businesses to work with.”

Much of her prosperity is due to the tourism in the area.

“Over the years, I’ve really enjoyed a wonderful relationship with all the resorts here …

It’s good to see all the businesses prosper. The more success everyone enjoys, it spills over into the other businesses … As we see our area become more and more popular and a tourist destination and a top area for second homes, we want to be sure we’re in position to provide the top level and quality of interior design that our customers expect.”

Her staff, who are all NCIDQ certified interior designers, have been with her for years and are responsible for much of the businesses’ success continued quality.

“I just have a great team … I’m really lucky to have the support of all in my business,” she said. “We’re family.”

Her success has allowed her business to expand and she now has an office in Florida,

Mountain Dog & Friends English Antique Imports Bear Creek Traders

CLARK’S CREEK ROAD – 1.1 MILES

Hidden Valley Motel A Cut Above Landscaping

Glen Davis Electric

Hidden Valley Antique Mall Foscoe Fishing Company Blackberry Mattress Club Shop Peanuts Foscoe Country Corner CHURCH ROAD – 1.4 MILES Foscoe Pharmacy Salem Windows & Doors The Greater Foscoe Mining Company Country Retreat Family Billiards High Country Dulcimer

Foscoe Fire Department

Inn at the Ponds

DeWoolfson Down

Mill Ridge Resort Maggie Black Pottery Blue Ridge Veterinary Clinic

Art Purveyors

Mountaineer Golf Cars Hawk Mountain Tree Farm Sleepy Hollow Mountain Cabins

Grandfather Mountain State Park Office Stone Cavern Tile & Stone Mountain Lumber Eat Crow Ultimate Kitchen Design Final Touches

2.5 MILES

WELCOME TO GRANDFATHER COMMUNITY August / September 2014 H– i g2.6 h CMILES ountry

Aldridge Tree Farm

Magazine

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DeWoolfson Down - Richard Schaffer and Marsha Turner.

“Back in the ‘80s, 25 years ago, customers used to come in and we’d actually be stuffing the comforters and pillows for them. If you came in and said it was too soft or too firm, I was the one to stuff it for you.

Dianne Davant Interiors - (FRONT) Dianne Davant, Margaret Handley, (BACK) Pam McKay & Nicole South “Over the years, I’ve really enjoyed a wonderful relationship with all the resorts here … It’s good to see all the businesses prosper. The more success everyone enjoys, it spills over into the other businesses …”

Country Gourmet - Betsy Murelle “It’s a neat area. We were some of the first merchants out here and I’ve seen a lot of things go on.

You can say I’ve been on the road a long time.”

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August / September 2014

Ultimate Kitchen Design which garners a great percentage of her clientele. However, she still continues to work out of the High Country as often as she can.

“I’m always looking for an opportunity to come back to the mountains … being a mountain girl at heart, this is definitely the place to be. Overall, I think I’ve been very blessed to be in this area I call home.”

And the future is certain to Davant.

“I’m sometimes asked when I’ll retire or slow down – I don’t see that as being in the cards for me. I love what I do … I’m one of those fortunate people who finds their passion and I’m able to enjoy it every day.”

Grandview Restaurant

Greg and Debbie Cairns established Grandview in 1977 after Debbie’s father noticed that something was missing on N.C. 105.

“My dad was doing construction in Hound Ears as a second job while running Roaring River Chalets and kept talking [about how there were] no coffee stops on Highway 105 back in the early ‘70s.”

They bought their lot in 1975 and spent more than a year remodeling for the restaurant every night after work until opening day on July 2, 1977.

“People thought we were crazy opening a restaurant out here in the middle of nowhere,” said Debbie. “[There was] nothing out here back in the day.”

The original Grandview was smaller, only housing a six-seater bar and a few tables. A few years later, it expanded into what it is today and hasn’t changed much since.

“That’s why people like it,” said Leigh Ann Pozell, Cairns’ daughter.

Grandview Restaurant has maintained a loyal local customer base in addition to the many tourists that come by in the summer season. Every morning, the “Breakfast Club” regulars meet and sit at the same table as many other regulars pop in to chat with Debbie and the rest of the staff.

Greg, who recently passed away, was beloved by the Grandview community and loved the community in return.

“My dad would know exactly how they wanted it,” said Pozell. “He memorized everyone’s way of liking their breakfast. And he was always super passionate.”

The community showed tremendous support for the family after his passing.

“We’re definitely a family in Foscoe,” Pozell said. “People truly care about you here.”

Debbie still commits much of her energy toward the business, just as she has for the past three decades. “[She works] every day, unfortunately,” said Pozell. “ I think she could take more time off; it’s just that it’s her baby.”

Final Touches

WELCOME TO GRANDFATHER COMMUNITY – 2.6 MILES

Aldridge Tree Farm 9 Lives Consignment

Trash Dump Grandfather Vineyard & Winery

Carlton Gallery Green Mansion Village Country Gourmet Grandview Restaurant Hess Gas Station Freeman Gas Entrance to Seven Devils Skyline / SkyBest Grandfather Mountain Trout Farm Grandfather Mountain Campground Windrush Antiques French Swiss Ski Rentals

Gilded Age Antiques

Stoney Creek Realty

55 MPH PASSING LANE

Grandfather Mountain Nursery

CASEY’S GAP – 4.3 MILES

Smoketree Lodge

AVERY / WATAUGA COUNTY LINE – 4.8 MILES

Joe’s Used Cars Glens of Grandfather

Tatum Gallery & Design Grandfather Business Center Dianne Davant Associates ADAM’S APPLE DR. 5.2 MILES

August / September 2014

High Country Magazine

43

“She’s worried about people thinking it won’t be here and [that they] won’t be able to come here anymore.”

Pozell, however, hopes to take over the business and keep it running in the family.

“I look forward to my mom being able to relax and retire in the next few years.”

Grandview, it seems, will maintain itself as a staple of the community for years to come where anyone can come in from anywhere and feel right at home.

Tatum Galleries

Foscoe Fishing Company – 1.3 miles into Foscoe.

Around since the mid-80’s, Slate and Tyler Lacy purchased it in 2011.

Club Shop Peanuts – 1.4 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated Wesley Crum since 1983.

Foscoe Country Corner – 1.4 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Billy & Nicole Shoemaker since 2004.

Foscoe Pharmacy – 1.4 miles into Foscoe.

Part of the Boone Drug family, it was opened in 1999.

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Steve and Sally Tatum opened Tatum Galleries three decades ago to sell solid wooden furniture hand-made by Steve himself.

They have since expanded to sell various pieces of fine furniture and interior décor.

“It’s grown quite a bit,” said Sally. “We started in one room and eventually took over the upstairs. My husband had his workshop and we kicked him out of that and moved him downstairs.

Then we added the porch for the outdoor furniture … we’ve just added more and more.”

The business wasn’t always so fruitful, however.

“When we first started, we had a little bitty business … It was slower for sure and we were dead in the winter – there just weren’t as many people. Sometimes I wish I could go back,” she laughed.

Like many other business owners on N.C. 105, Sally is always busy. She’s deeply involved with the daily operation of her business and with her clientele.

“It’s a little hard – 7 days a week kills me. But it’s okay. I enjoy it … We like to make our customers feel welcome when they come in and because we do that, we’ve made a lot of good friends.”

Many of her closest clients have been coming into Tatum Galleries since its days of selling a few select pieces of Steve’s handiwork.

“We used to have a dog in my husband’s workshop and thirty years later, I still get people saying ‘I remember that dog you used to have.’”

The business is certainly a family affair in more ways than one – her daughter now works at Tatum Galleries as an interior designer, so the business is likely to remain in the family for years to come. That doesn’t mean that Sally is close to retiring, however.

For her, Tatum Galleries is a passion.

“I plan on being here [in the future]. My staff makes fun of me sometimes,” she laughed.” But I’m gonna continue to carry on and in the back of my mind, I’ve even thought about expanding, but I like being more intimate, more friendly. I’m happy the way I am.”

Grandfather Trout Farm

The Grandfather Trout Farm has been owned and operated

by Bill Wilkinson for more than 30 years. The farm boasts three ponds along the curve of the Watauga River that have attracted fishermen both for the chance to catch high quality fish for a low price and for the chance to congregate and socialize.

Wilkinson has a long history with the area and has seen it grow firsthand along with his business.

“When I was first here, there was only one mini-warehouse – I could see the road still,” said Wilkinson.

“The valley’s growing, but it’s not a corridor – not like 321.”

Running parallel to N.C. 105, the Watauga River is a major feature of Foscoe and has been both a blessing and a curse to Wilkinson’s trout farm in the past.

A flash flood in January 1995 washed away the dike that separates Watauga River from the Trout Farm, causing him to lose all of his fish down the river. After rebuilding, disaster struck again in 2004 when

The Greater Foscoe Mining Co. – 1.5 miles into Foscoe. Owner Kenny Pickett started here in 1970’s, opening the Mining Company in 1988.

Foscoe Fire Department – 1.7 miles into Foscoe.

Founded in 1971 by individual community members.

Country Retreat Family Billiards & Grill – 1.5 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Chris Aldridge since 1996.

DeWoolfson Down – 1.9 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Richard Schaffer since 1982

August / September 2014

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Hurricanes Frances and Ivan came through the High Country and flooded the farm. Again, he lost thousands of pounds of trout.

“You could say I stocked the river pretty well,” laughed Wilkinson.

Despite its number of fiascoes, Grandfather Trout Farm is the largest in the county and has outlived a number of competitors.

Wilkinson credits N.C. 105 for his longevity.

“When I first started, I had competitors, but not anymore. The others weren’t off the highway … As far as location goes, that’s the thing.”

Wilkinson’s success can also be blamed on his deep commitment to his work. He has worked the farm for three decades and has rarely taken days off. Through disaster after disaster, Grandfather Trout Farm stands strong as a mainstay in Foscoe.

Blue Ridge Veterinary Clinic – 2.0 miles into Foscoe. Owned and operated

by Dr. Gail Hoyme, treating animals in the High Country for over 20 years.

Mill Ridge Resort – 2.0 miles into Foscoe.

Ski Slope and Development established in 1970.

Art Purveyors – 2.1 miles into Foscoe. Owned and operated by Mike Hill since 1989 – at this location for last 6 years.

The Greater Foscoe Mining Company & Facets of Foscoe

The Greater Foscoe Mining Company and Facets of Foscoe are both owned and operated by Kenny Pickett. The Greater Foscoe Mining Company is a gem mine that allows customers a chance to sift through the dirt to find precious stones. Many customers take the stones they find next door to Facets of Foscoe, a jewelry design studio where they can have the stones cut and custom jewelry made for them by Pickett and his staff.

Pickett moved to the High Country in the mid ‘70s and began his business in one small room of the building that hosts Facets of Foscoe today.

“We were completely in the country and everybody predicted failure,” said Pickett.

N.C. 105 proved to deliver more customers than he expected, however, and the business thrived, especially after he opened The Greater Foscoe Mining Company in 1988.

“It’s a neat corridor to be in ‘cause no matter where you’re going, you gotta come through here.”

Pickett’s business now survives solely on roadside tourism, word-of-mouth and repeat customers. He has ended virtually all advertising for his business thanks to the numbers of travelers that come through N.C. 105.

“We’ve had a couple ups and downs – the recession and all that – but the tourist trade has been good to the whole area … It’s been a pretty amazing growth over the last 25-30 years.”

Today, Facets of Foscoe and The Greater Foscoe Mining Company are larger than ever and Pickett does more business than he can sometimes handle, particularly in August, the height of tourist season.

All in all, whether he has experienced too much business or not enough, Pickett has enjoyed his 30 years as part of the Foscoe community on N.C. 105.

“It’s been a good living to me and a good life as well.”

The Country Gourmet

Mountaineer Golf Cars – 2.2 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Jack Triolo since 1982.

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The Country Gourmet is one of the oldest businesses along 105 that still operates today. Betsy Murelle, the owner, moved into the area in 1969 and opened her business soon after in 1974.

“It all started with my love of cooking,” said Murelle.

Her store sells everything needed for the kitchen and more.

There you’ll find cooking and baking appliances, coffee and tea appliances, ice cream makers, wine and alcohol accessories, every unique kitchen gadget imaginable and loads of kitchen décor.

Her original focus was on locally made, traditionally styled kitchen wares, but she has since expanded her focus to include a number of products from all over the world, including many from Italy, France, England, Wales and Ireland.

Carlton Galleries - Toni Carlton “Some of my best clients now are the children of clients I had at Creekside and my early galleries. t’s not only a client sort of relationship – they’re our friends.”

Serves You Right!

Cute-tique!

Exceptional, Quality Gifts for Infants & Children

The Greater Fosoce Mining Company - Kenny Pickett “We’ve had a couple ups and downs – the recession and all that – but the tourist trade has been good to the whole area … It’s been a pretty amazing growth over the last 25-30 years.”

Gift a Child a Smile!

Baby Shower Gifts, Books, Games & Keepsakes

LIVING ...

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YOUR LIFESTYLE!

Grandview Restaurant - Debbie Cairns “People thought we were crazy opening a restaurant out here in the middle of nowhere.

[There was] nothing out here back in the day.”

August / September 2014

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Stone Cavern - 2.4 miles into Foscoe.

John Buford & Carly Moore. Established in 2005.

“All the chefs shop here,” said Murelle. “And we serve the people here – locals and resort owners. We definitely have a loyal customer base.”

Her consistent customer base is partly due to the welcoming atmosphere of The Country Gourmet.

“We have lots of interesting people come through. You have to sorta talk to them and help them in any way you can – we’re not just here to sell something.”

“We’re unique in that we know pretty much all of our customers,” said Lisa Leyshon, an employee at The Country Gourmet. “You don’t find that anywhere.”

Customers are thrilled when they leave and are sure to return soon after with a friend or two.

“That’s our best advertising,” said Murelle with a smile.

She has greatly enjoyed her years as part of the community and on N.C. 105.

“It’s a neat area. We were some of the first merchants out here and I’ve seen a lot of things go on. You can say I’ve been on the road a long time,” she laughed.

The Country Gourmet has truly stood the test of time for more reasons than its quality alone. Like many other businesses on 105, it has survived for its sense of community and its commitment to the person behind the sale.

Country Retreat Family Billiards & Grill

Eat Crow - 2.4 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Dominic & Meryle Geraghty since 2011.

Final Touches – 2.5 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Agapios Vrikis since 2000.

9 Lives Consignment – 2.7 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Clyde Williams since 2006.

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Chris Aldridge opened Country Retreat Family Billiards & Grill in 1996 on land that has been passed down in his family for generations.

A pool player since the age of 8, Aldridge has had a life-long passion for pool and has tried to keep interest in the sport alive.

“Not as many young people play pool anymore,” he said. His goal when establishing the pool hall was “to make it more of a family place. A lot of pool rooms aren’t conducive for kids to play and learn to play.”

“Over the years we’ve been open, we’ve had a number of younger players, many who’ve played in the junior nationals.”

Country Retreat houses eight well-kept pool tables, one of which has tighter pockets for more professional play.

“We’re the place to go that has the best pool tables. The ones that are serious about the game know that this is the best place to come.”

Even though Country Retreat is the only pool hall around, most of its business stems from the dining room. This is because of the many local regulars that come in every day.

“Probably three fourths of our business is regulars … The waitresses know exactly what they’re gonna drink and eat before they even come in. I have a lot of employees that have been here a long time … We don’t have the turnover that a lot of these restaurants have.”

“I try to keep it simple … I’ve always tried to keep food very affordable. I’ve gone five years without ever increasing the prices.”

Today’s economy has made that feat difficult to manage in recent years, however.

“The food business is really tough because the cost of food keeps going up – the supplies too. Every single thing has gone up more than I’ve raised the prices … There’s been a lot of restaurant turnover, but we’ve managed to survive somehow.”

Country Retreat has remained largely unchanged in its 18 years on N.C. 105 and has survived through the highs and the lows. Visitors to Country Retreat are likely to see familiar faces lining the counter tops and Aldridge in the back, roaming around the pool tables and chatting with his customers.

Grandfather Vineyard – 2.7 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Steve & Sally Tatum since 2011.

Country Gourmet, located in Green Mansions – 3.1 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Betsy Murelle since 1974.

Carlton Gallery – 2.9 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Toni Carlton for 32 years.

Grandview Restaurant – 3.1 miles into Foscoe.

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High Country Magazine

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SkyLine/SkyBest – 3.2 miles into Foscoe.

Established in 1951 and this annex was opened in 2000.

French Swiss Rentals – 3.4 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Jim Cottrell since 1977.

Grandfather Trout Farm – 3.3 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Bill Wilkinson for over 30 years.

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High Country Magazine

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Country Retreat Family Billiards & Grill - Chris Aldridge “Probably three fourths of our business is regulars …

The waitresses know exactly what they’re gonna drink and eat before they even come in.”

Grandfather Mountain Nursery - Theresa Foxx “I have some that just drop in, but most of my clients are people I’ve known for 20 plus years.”

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Tatum Gallery - Susan Hartley, Summer Hayes, Mikalla Shepherd and Seinna Courie “When we first started, we had a little bitty business … It was slower for sure and we were dead in the winter – there just weren’t as many people. Sometimes I wish I could go back.” - Sally Tatum 52

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August / September 2014

Grandfather Mountain Nursery Garden Center and Landscaping offers an assortment of valued products and professional advice at their Garden Center as well as custom landscaping services to their wide clientele. Theresa Foxx, a true Foscoe native, is the owner and operator.

“My roots run very deep in this valley – figuratively and literally,” said Foxx.

She is part of a clan that has been in the Foscoe region, originally known as Fox’s Cove, since the 1700s.

Her parents began a growing operation for ornamental plants in 1976. The loading dock for the business, built in 1984, is now the site of Grandfather Mountain Nursery. Foxx began working for the business in 1989 and her love of gardening has grown ever since.

“I didn’t realize how much I would get into it. I bought a house and started landscaping and just loved it. I really took a lot of pride in it. I loved watching things grow – taking a blank slate and making things grow.

You’re only limited by your imagination.

That’s the beauty of it.”

Her passion carries over into the high quality of work done by Foxx and her staff.

“People don’t realize how dirty garden shop work is,” she said. “We do everything by hand. I truly believe in doing things the old fashioned way. [Work here is] done once and done right.”

That commitment, along with the personability of her business, has kept clients coming back for years.

“I have some that just drop in, but most of my clients are people I’ve known for 20 plus years. [People] come to me for things – ask me things – and I’m always giving things away – ‘oh why don’t you try the new perennial?’”

She is more of a community member than a business owner. Clients know her cell number and aren’t afraid to ask a favor and she has had the same staff for years.

“They’re my family – I love them. I’ve worked with my Forman for 20 years – I’ve been invited to quinceañeras. Definitely these people are family.”

To Foxx, the whole community is her family. She’s quick to admit the importance of Foscoe to her life.

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survive somehow. And there’s a lot of culture here and a mix of culture – I’m very proud of this area … This is an über special place to be.”

Foscoe Country Corner

Smoketree Lodge - 4.5 miles into Foscoe. Built in 1972.

Amy Burnette - General Manager

Joe’s Used Cars – 4.8 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Joe and Judy Ward since 1982.

The Foscoe Country Corner is a long-standing staple of the community. It was the only general store and diner in the area for many years and it has a history older than most residents can remember.

The building was home to a glass emporium in the early ‘60s until Cecil Aldridge turned it into a general store. It then switched hands to the Taylor family and most still refer to it as the Taylor Country Store despite its current ownership under the Shoemakers.

Nicole Shoemaker has worked in general stores since childhood and worked for the Taylors at their store as a teenager. She took over the business in 2004 with her husband and has worked hard to maintain the store’s sense of informality and community.

It’s normal for residents to come in, greet everyone by name, grab a drink and a snack and immediately sit down at one of the many dining tables to join the day’s conversation.

“This place out here’s still just a community,” said Nicole. “Everyone knows everybody. If they don’t and you come here more than once, they’ll find it out.”

“They” refers to the many regulars that have frequented the store for decades.

Ira Fowler, a regular for more than thirty years, lives nearby and often helps Nicole as she closes the store for the night.

“This is kinda like a home place,” said Fowler. “[Nicole]’s so friendly – she’s nice to everybody. If anybody [in the community] needs help with anything, she’s the first one to help ... [The store] has gotten better over the years and it’s ‘cause of this girl right here.”

For Nicole, the store is far more than a business. “[Customers] become like family. My kids have 30 grandpas and 30 uncles … There’s some great people here and there’s always a lot of laughter … This place is full of great stories – ones you can’t print.”

The store has an incredible amount of community support and is sure to remain open for years to come.

“I hope it’s still here [in the future],” said Nicole. “I hope it’s still a country store. And I hope it’s still a community.”

Foscoe Fire Department

Tatum Galleries – 5.0 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Sally Tatum for over 25 years.

Dianne Davant Interiors – 5.2 miles into Foscoe.

Owned and operated by Dianne Davant for over 20 years.

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Foscoe Fire Department is a staple of the community in more ways than one. It was founded in 1971 by individual community members and remained entirely volunteer-run until 2006, when they hired their first part-time fireman.

Chief Matthew Aldridge has a long lineage in Foscoe and his family has been involved with the fire department for generations.

His grandfather, Cluf Aldridge, was on the original Board of Directors for the department and his father, Frank Aldridge, was a firefighter for nearly 40 years and served as Chief.

In fact, many of the firefighters on staff today are second generation, their fathers having served for the department in the past.

In his years, Aldridge has witnessed the growth of Foscoe and the Foscoe Fire Department.

“Growing up here, for years, the only place to eat was [the Taylor Country Store],” said Aldridge. “[And back then], everybody you’d see, you’d know.”

He admits, however, that the region is still relatively unchanged and the community is still very close-knit.

“When responding to a call, 90 percent of the time, I know who that person is.”

This makes the work of Aldridge and the rest of the men at Foscoe Fire Department all the more difficult and the people of

Foscoe all the more appreciative.

“They’ve always supported the firemen,” said Aldridge. “We’ve been very fortunate here.”

Hidden Valley Motel

Hidden Valley Motel is a highlight of Foscoe that has maintained the appeal of mid-century roadside motels. Visitors praise Hidden Valley for its ‘60s style, its vintage cars and tractors on display, its massive garden out front and its general hominess, cleanliness and value.

“We came in the mid ‘60s to visit. Over the years, we tended to like the BooneBlowing Rock area the best,” said Jim Harrison, who operates the motel along with his wife Maxine.

“We decided we were gonna come up here and retire. We bought the motel and started rebuilding it, so I guess we never really did retire,” Maxine laughed.

The Church family built the motel originally. When it fell into the hands of Jim and Maxine, they decided it didn’t quite fit their vision.

“We were looking for a certain charm,” said Jim. Today, through years of hard work and dedication, the motel has achieved that certain charm it once lacked. The walls are decorated with old black and white photographs, bathroom doors are handmade with antique locks and vintage knickknacks adorn the shelves.

“This is much the sort of place we stayed in the ‘60s,” said Jim. “It fits us.”

“We get lots and lots of people from Europe – they’re used to small motels. One night we had a family from Germany and four families from Spain,” said Maxine. “We also get a lot of people riding their motorcycles up through here.”

What makes Hidden Valley special is the people who own it and the community around it.

“I wanted to live here – this is the kind of business I enjoy,” said Jim. “I like people – I like to run my mouth … [Visitors here] just often become friends as well as guests. It’s a way of life more than a business.”

N.C. 105 is a unique road that has created a unique community of people. The businesses and landmarks found throughout the valley are unlike those found elsewhere in The High Country. A drive down the highway continues to be an experience reminiscent of a bygone time, an experience punctuated by unforgettable people who are more than willing to show you around, share a word, learn your name and await your return. 

Foscoe Country Corner - Nicole Shoemaker “This place out here’s still just a community. Everyone knows everybody.

If they don’t and you come here more than once, they’ll find it out.”

Grandfather Trout Farm - Bill Wilkinson “When I was first here, there was only one mini-warehouse – I could see the road still.

The valley’s growing, but it’s not a corridor – not like 321.”

Foscoe Fire Department - Chief Matthew Aldridge “Growing up here, for years, the only place to eat was the Taylor Country Store.

And back then, everybody you’d see, you’d know.”

August / September 2014

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Bill Leonard’s Family Business

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The Leonard family stands out in front of Ski Country Sports, the family business for over 30 years. The Leonard children have practically been on the property from birth. From left-to-right are Matt, Susan, Bill Carrie and Chris.

Growing Up Working Together F

Story by David Coulson • Photography by Ken Ketchie

Though the days are hectic, this tight-knit family still meets for or Bill Leonard of Ski Country Sports, family goes hand-indinner as often as possible, with just one rule. hand with business everywhere but at the dinner table.

“We don’t talk about business at home,” said the elder Leonard.

Leonard and his wife Susan worked side-by-side in building the family business, with their four children growing up “We all have our areas which we work with and we are all sounding boards for each other. They all still in the distinct surroundings across from come back and eat dinner almost every Sugar Mountain on N.C. Highway 184.

Wednesday night.”

Now over 30 years and many long Oldest son Billy, who also spent hours after opening their doors, three of much of his formative years roaming their four children, daughter Carrie and around those Ski Country Sports digs twin sons Chris and Matt, are adding and worked at the store through college, their flare to the business as the Leonhas moved on to the Bay Area and a job ard family has expanded from the ski with Google, but he remains close to the business into more summer recreational rest of the family and added to the clan fare, from whitewater rafting, to tubing, when he and his wife Hope celebrated caving and gem mining. the birth of twins nine months ago.

You can even make a date for limouAll of that time spent together with sine service for that special day, or evefamily through the years is still evident ning event. on the days they are together at the shop, On a given spring, or summer day, eating dinner at the home of their parone, or more family members will work Ski Country Sports began construction ents, or talking to their brother Billy in along with other staff members taking on their building at the beginning of 1983 California using the Face Time applicareservations for tubing, rafting and cavern and opened in September. It’s located tion on the Leonard’s Mac computers. expeditions, while others will be organizacross the street from Sugar Mountain “I’ve been fortunate in my life,” ing bus travel, food and other logistics for with a wonderful view of the ski slopes.

Bill Leonard said. “You work hard and excursions on the Watauga River, the Nolive right and hopefully things go your lichucky River and Worley’s Cave.

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The Leonard children have been a part of the family business since they were toddlers. From left to right are oldest son Billy (who now works for Goggle in California), daughter Carrie and twins Matt and Chris. (Photo Below) Susan and Bill Leonard have enjoyed two recent additions to their family, Billy’s twin daughter and son, Caroline and William V born nine months ago. way.”

Leonard’s interest in recreational sports go back all the way to his formative years, growing up in Greensboro, where he learned to swim at Greensboro’s Sherwood Swim Club, played Little League baseball and Midget football.

He became a successful competitive swimmer at the same time he was finding work at the club “mowing grass and pulling weeds.”

By the time he was 18, Bill was working as a lifeguard at Sherwood Swim Club and in 1968, he caught the interest of new Appalachian State swim coach Ollie Larson.

Larson gave this young competitor a partial scholarship to come and attend college in Boone, starting a love interest in the High Country that was never to be quenched.

Two years into his college education, Leonard was drafted into the U.S. Army near the height of the Vietnam War and one of life’s

fortunate turns landed him in West Germany.

Instead of the jungles of southeast Asia, Bill found himself both in the midst of the cold war near the border of East Germany and short distance from the heart of the German ski industry. All of the lessons he learned there would serve Bill well when he inevitably returned to the High Country.

Following a 19-month Army stint, he and a friend purchased a pair of Triumph motorcycles and toured Europe for several months before he returned to Greensboro and eventually made it back to Appalachian State.

He graduated with a non-teaching degree in physical education that featured 19 hours of internships. including one ski business opportunity in Aspen, CO.

Twins Matt and Chris got their business start running a lemonade stand at Yonahlossee when they were kids. Here at age 9 they set up shop at Ski Country Sports entrance. (Right) In a picture from 1989 that hints at the company’s future rafting business, Bill enjoys a moment in a pool with his four children, Billy, Carrie, Chris and Matt.

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A winter working at a ski shop in Denver, CO. and time at the ski shop located at Beech Mountain followed as Bill’s future began to be directed into an unexpected, yet fruitful direction.

Bill had met his future wife, Susan, while he was at ASU, but the two ran in different circles. Susan left ASU with a teaching credential and settled into a school position in her hometown of Greensboro, while Bill started work as a retail buyer for Alpine Ski Center, leasing space from owners Bob Quinlan and Hiram Lewis.

Bill and Susan met again at a Greensboro bank one weekend in December, 1976 and he invited her to a college football game. It wasn’t long before Susan began traveling to Banner Elk on weekends to help Bill in his work at Alpine Ski Center, working for free.

By June 24, 1977, the 28-year-old Bill and the 24-year-old Susan were married.

With Bill still working at Alpine Ski Center and Susan finding employment as a teacher in Trade, TN., the couple started building for the future and Bill was able to open his own store — named Ski Country Sports — in 1983.

It didn’t take long for the family aspect of the business to fall into place when oldest son Billy was born that same year, with the couple juggling diaper changes and serving ski customers.

Less than two years later, daughter Carrie was born in January, 1985 and within five days, she was taking up residence in a Moses-designed basket behind the front counter. In 1988, twins Chris and Matt were added to the family.

All four Leonard children learned to ski before they were three-years-old and all of them quickly learned to find their niches in the family business, particularly as Bill began to buy other stores, beginning with a ski shop in Asheville in 1989 and Charlotte Ski and Tennis in 1990.

He purchased 1st Tracks ski shop in 1999 and High Mountain Expeditions in 2002.

The family added several Sports Authority stores in Charlotte, Winston-Salem and Greenville, S.C. after Bill received a contract to sell ski equipment in the nationally-based company’s regional stores.

The business that started as Ski Country Sports now has seven sports stores scattered across the Carolinas.

The summer rafting, tubing and cav-

High Mountain Expeditions employs 30 guides in the summer. These guides had just returned from a trip and posed in front of one of the busses used to transport customers.

High Mountain Expeditions gives customers a thrill-packed, whitewater rafting experience on a pair of rivers in the High Country. “It’s all about having fun and showing the customer a good time,” said Bill Leonard. PHOTO BY Elizabeth Huff

After a busy day running excursions on three different High County rivers, the Ski Country Sports staff keeps up the momentum selling T-shirts and souvenirs.

August / September 2014

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Bill Leonard talks to his twin sons Chris and Matt inside of his upstairs office at Ski Country Sports. The family is always discussing new ideas.

Bill Leonard reflects on a wall of memories that includes family pictures and other mementos from 30 plus years at Ski Country Sports.

Matt and Chris Leonard, shown here relaxing in their dad’s office, are perfectly natural working together in the business world.

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ing businesses began to take flight with the purchase of High Mountain Expeditions in 2002 as a way to diversify and guard against the inevitability of occasional slow winters.

“We had to find a way to keep good people around year-round,” said Bill.

Those summer businesses have grown by leaps and bounds since, particularly with the return of twins Chris and Matt from college at Appalachian State and Montana State, respectively.

Entrepreneurs at heart, Chris and Matt constantly bounce business ideas off their seasoned father, who has learned to try many things and keep building the ones that work.

Most of the summer ventures have worked well and they have provided a needed break from the ski business that is central to the family’s life.

“It reinvigorates you,” said Bill. “It keeps everybody fresh.”

Daughter Carrie Smithey has blossomed after studying fashion merchandising at Meredith College and has been a key component in planning purchases in the store with her mother.

When Susan entered college, she dreamed of a career in fashion merchandising. But a guidance counselor at Appalachian State had other ideas.

“I was told I could never find a job in that field, that I should become a teacher, because there would always be jobs available for teachers,” Susan explained.

Ironically, Susan has found her niche in the world of sportswear fashion in her work at Ski Country Sports and making things even sweeter is the fact she gets to share that love with Carrie.

Mother and daughter spend several enjoyable weeks a year traveling to fashion shows and talking to sales representatives and designers as they plan store purchases for the following year’s ski season.

Carrie ventured off to college study art, but quickly changed her major to fashion merchandising. She went on to spend a year in Paris, studying at the Fashion Institute and then moved to New York City for a year to work for a high-end German fashion giant, Boyner.

“I learned my sense of color from my mom,” Carrie freely admitted. “I like seeing all of the new things and putting it altogether.”

There is one more benefit for a mom and daughter who make no bones about another shared interest. Both of them love the shopping aspect of their jobs.

“The ability to shop is one of the things I love the most about fashion merchandising,” said Carrie.

Susan said she also finds enjoyment in watching how fashion lines develop in companies over the years and the special relationships that grow between the buyers and the sellers.

Susan and Carrie have helped Ski Country Sports develop a hard-earned reputation in the sports fashion world that goes beyond the reach of the family’s small, specialty shop background.

“We’re a small shop in the realm of things, but we have a good sense of things,” said Susan.

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Mark Russ

long-time General Manager and go-to guy.

Quick with a smile.

“If something needs to be done, you do it,” said manager Mark Russ, who has been with the Leonards for about 15 years. “You know that there is nothing they will ask you to do that they are not willing to do, or have done themselves.” was actually shown to the Leonard family women in November, and developed her skills to the point that one family friend of2013 and was up to several years in the planning and develop- fered to pay for her move to Colorado to take up the sport proment stage before being shown to Susan and Carrie before that. fessionally.

“Susan has a great eye for fashion, color and presentation,” “She fell in love instead,” said her father, Bill.

Bill said. “She is one of those exceptional people at organizing That relationship with Zach Smithey led to marriage almost things. She has a lot on her table and gets a lot done. two years ago.

Not only do Susan and Carrie have to The Leonard family also has conview new items with a feel for color, fabstructed a strong sense of relationship ric and style, they also have to consider with their employees. And all of the activwhere fashion trends might travel a full ity at Ski Country Sports allows for about year ahead of time.

70 employees in the winter and over 100 “Carrie has done this with me since in the summer. she was seven, or eight,” said Susan. “She No matter what the season, customers has a real ability for seeing the color of find a personable, hands-on approach to one item and remembering it so she can all of the business endeavors at Ski Counput it together with another item.” try Sports. Family members and employBesides her work in the family busiees alike take extraordinary effort to cater ness, Carrie also serves as a buyer and to customers, something that is seen in a runs the shop at a local golf course. lot of subtle ways.

Like her three brothers, Carrie spent “If something needs to be done, you plenty of time growing up around the do it,” said manager Mark Russ, who shop and across North Carolina Highway has been with the Leonards for about 15 184 at the Sugar Mountain ski resort. years. “You know that there is nothing “It was fun,” Carrie said of her childthey will ask you to do that they are not hood. “There was always something to willing to do, or have done themselves.” do. We always have had a sense of family.

Strong customer service leads to reIt is something we learned early on.” peat business and first impressions are important to the both the family and staff.

About the time Carrie was beginning to Carrie and Susan Leonard, both with “Everyone around here cares about make trips with Susan, she discovered she had her first loose tooth one day in the shop. a keen eye for fashion, enjoy traveling things and know how customers should be “I had my first tooth pulled here,” Car- together to merchandise shows and treated,” said Bill Leonard. “Things change and happen every day. You’ve go to be rie said. “Someone tied a string to one of the designing the store’s look. thinking on your feet.” doors and pulled it out.”

The Leonard business model also tries to find price points for Her family members also remember Carrie putting on ima variety of clients. promptu fashion shows in the parking lot.

“We are selling fun,” Russ explained.

One of Carrie’s favorite memories of her three brothers was Bill Leonard agreed. of them making snow guns.

“It is all about having fun and showing the customer a good “They made it snow in our neighborhood and here at the shop.”

Like her brothers, Carrie learned to ski before she was three time.”

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Twins Chris and Matt Leonard are always looking for ways to expand the family business, whether it be starting a limo service, running High Mountain Expeditions or opening the Sugar Creek Gem Mine

MC TWIN INC. Chris and Matt Have Been In Business Together Essentially Since They Were Five Years Old

W

hen Chris and Matt Leonard were five years old, they decided to go into business with a neighborhood lemonade stand in the Yonahlossee resort where their family lived.

But these business-minded twins, the youngest sons of Bill and Susan Leonard, quickly found their menu too limited.

They requested that their mom bake them cookies to serve along with the lemonade. That was soon followed by the idea to add flowers to the items for sale as the young entrepreneurs continued to refine their fledgling business.

“We made pretty good money,” said Matt. “I think we made like $200.”

Following in the footsteps of their successful parents, the owners of Ski Country Sports and growing up in the store and on the ski

slopes of Sugar Mountain, the twins have continued to develop their business senses through the years.

This story started on Bill and Susan’s 11th wedding anniversary — June 24, 1988. Taking their time for their command performance, Chris and Matt were born two weeks late.

When they arrived, the twins weighed 7.4 pounds and 7.8 pounds respectively, a record for twins born at Watauga Medical Center.

After Chris made his entry into the world, younger brother Matt — with an already well-tuned flare for the dramatic — waited an additional 45 minutes before he decided to join his fraternal twin sibling.

By the time they were two and a half, like their older siblings Billy and Carrie, both of them were already on skis and learning to be competitors.

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(To this day, Chris and Matt both insist that they beat the other in skiing).

The business experience of the lemonade stand — which was set up on the busiest days possible at Yonahlossee to promote reaching the most customers — gave way to a landscaping business the twins started with a friend to cut grass and pull weeds for neighbors.

Chris said that they negotiated a deal with one homeowner to pay each of them $8 an hour for their work. The trio of friends rushed whole-heartedly into their work efforts only to find out when they were done that the homeowner was paying them $8 total per hour.

It was a good, early lesson for Chris and Matt.

When Chris and Matt were Businessmen Matt and Chris Leonard converted an old Scotsman convenience store into the Sugar approaching their 14th birthdays Creek Gem Mine, with lots of help from those who donated materials and work to the project. in 2002, Bill Leonard purchased High Mountain Expeditions as a they climb over large boulders, squeeze through small crevices and way to supplement the ski business in the off-season and the two are tantalized by underground rivers in an intermediate/beginner youngsters jumped into the new endeavor with all their feet forcaving encounter. ward.

Chris and Matt find themselves doing everything from taking “They really took over and ran that from the time they were reservations, driving busses, solving problems that might crop up teenagers,” said Susan. on a given day and everything in between.

The business started with rafting on one river, but has expanded While the twins have been typically close through the years, by leaps and bounds over the past 12 years. their lives took different turns when they finished high school and Now the family has tubing trips on the New River, Class I-III departed for college. whitewater rafting on the Watauga River and Class III-IV whitewaChris applied at one school — nearby Appalachian State — and ter rafting the Nolichuckey River and even caving expeditions at ventured off to study construction management. It was an interest Worley’s Cave. that grew out of the work Chris has done as a handyman around The Watauga River trip provides breathtaking views of hidthe Sugar Mountain Ski Resort over the years. den waterfalls, twisting mountain venues and stretches of pastoral Sister Carrie said the construction study wasn’t unexpected. splendor.

“Chris took everything apart and rebuilt it.”

Participants can enjoy taking a plunge off a popular jumping “I just remember putting rock for a quick swim, enjoying water-gun fights and relishing in a stuff back together,” countered gourmet deli buffet lunch on a trip that is designed for those ages Chris. “And what was wrong three and up. with taking something that was “Our dad always says Meanwhile, the Nolichuckey River offers an even more challengbroken apart and making it ing whitewater experience as it snakes its way through the deepest to work hard.” work again?” river gorge east of the Mississippi River for those nine and older.

Matt, meanwhile, turned There are waves of water to negotiate, contrasted by large sandown a scholarship at Leesdy beaches — providing a great place to partake of the gourmet McRae College and decided to deli buffet lunch. head out west for an adventure The New River floating trips emphasize relaxing, family-orientat Montana State, where he ed adventures at a leisurely pace that allows customers to take in competed on the highly-regardthe gorgeous scenery of this unique environment in a comfortable ed Bobcat ski team and studied way, with well-trained guides helping things along on custom, hardentrepreneurial business. bottomed cooler tubes.

While they were apart for Water depths range from two to eight feet usually, providing a most of four years, the twins spectacular and refreshing way to enjoy this remarkable and ancient were honing skills that would river. dovetail perfectly when they Worley’s Cave provides an adventure for all ages as people can formed MC Twin Incorporated, experience the mystical adventure of the inside of a mountain as their personal business.

To the Top

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In 2013, the pair came up with a big idea for their dad and mom — to convert an old Scotsman convenience store into a gem mine.

The quick-witted Chris pointed out that it was “the oldest gem mine in Avery County,” while his equally-acerbic “younger” brother abruptly noted that it was also “the only gem mine in Avery County.”

The brothers used all sorts of donated and creative supplies to turn the old store into a fascinating site, complete with a uniquelycrafted water tower and other rustic touches.

There is a tin roof that was tracked down on the backside of Beech Mountain, an old, classic soda cooler that was purchased on Ebay and a huge safe that originally was located at one of the old Winn-Dixie grocery stores in the High Country. The safe is so large that the twins broke a fork lift and needed six people to get it into its final destination inside the main building of the gem mine.

The construction project was a labor of love.

“That was our first and last construction project,” said the always adventuresome Matt.

Business at the gem mine has been brisk.

“Last summer, it really took off,” said Matt. “We needed something else to do in the summer.”

While the gem mine idea might have raised eyebrows in the Leonard family, the news that Matt had purchased a limousine off Ebay earlier this year was met with even more surprise.

“I didn’t expect to be the high-bidder,” Matt explained, with a sly smile. “My dad was a little confused by that idea.”

His girlfriend helped contribute to the newest Leonard family business endeavor by buying Matt a nifty, limo driver’s hat.

The twins were off to Maryland to pick up their new vehicle and haul it back to the High Country, but on the trip back, a piece of road debris struck the fuel tank of the limo and pierced it, giving Matt a business expense even before he had started his fledgling, offshoot company.

When asked if they had picked up any famous cliental for the limo business yet, Matt and Chris joked that they were considering using Dale Earhardt, Jr. as a fake customer.

The entrepreneurial spirit of the twins continues to spin and is likely to show itself in many more unique ways as time marches on.

“I don’t plan for the future,” said Chris.

Both of the twins said they have learned many lessons from their successful parents, but one stands out.

“My dad always says to work hard, because no one is going to give you anything,” said Chris. 

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RedTail Mountain

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The High Country's Newest "Old" Destination

BY Harris Prevost August / September 2014

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new trend in tourism for our busy, busy modern lives is improvements to the property.

First, they renovated the course's bunkers and replaced the a vacation at home. The trend even has its own name, "Staycation," meaning a "stay at home vacation." Fami- sand with the same sand used in the famous bunkers at Aulies check into a home town motel, eat out, chill out, gusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters golf tournament. Next, they increased the watch television, swim and enjoy course's maintenance budget. What local attractions just like a tourist. is already a wonderful mountain For golfers, the High Councourse, designed in tandem by two try has an even better option. Its hall of fame course designers, Dan a new golf-centered destination Maples and his father Ellis, just bethat's been around for 32 years . came better. Ellis designed the very . . and its less than half-hour from popular Boone Golf Course. He Boone, or about the same amount also designed nearby Grandfather of time it takes to drive to Linville Golf Club and the Country Club of or Banner Elk. It's RedTail MounNorth Carolina, both of which are tain in Mountain City, TN. ranked among the top five courses For most of RedTail's life, it was in North Carolina. just the Roan Valley Golf Course.

That's just the beginning. The Some developers saw the potential of nines were flipped to have the first the course and surrounding property tee and 18th green close to each othand purchased it in 2006. The first er, and more connected. An expandthing they did was change its name to ed pro shop and a new putting green RedTail Mountain, aptly named bewill be built at the same site. Later, cause of the large number of hawks three new "mountain holes" will be that call the mountain home. built and a large practice range and One of the owners said of the short-game area will be added.

850-acre property, "After going on the property, we pinched ourselves because we couldn't believe there SAM ADAMS' IMPACT was something that nice that was The scenic course, which has undiscovered. It was a jewel in the about half its holes in a beautiful rough. A little tender loving care valley and half 500 feet up, around would make it something special." and across the Continental Divide Unfortunately for them, the Great at 3,000 feet elevation will become Recession brought huge hits to golf even more exciting with the new course properties and they were holes designed by the only director – General Manager, Vernon Brady not able to follow through with of golf the course has ever known, their vision.

Boone's own Sam Adams.

Adams, who joined the PGA Tour in 1972 with a Qualifying NEW OWNERS ADD NEW EXCITEMENT School class that included Lanny Wadkins and Tom Watson, made Fortunately for RedTail and the many golfers who love the his mark early. He finished second in the Canadian Open as a course, a family with an even greater love and vision for the prop- rookie, won the Quad Cities Open his second year and in 1977, erty, and with the wherewithal to see their vision become real- led the US Open at Southern Hills in Tulsa, OK, late into the third ity, purchased RedTail in late 2013. The Habermehl family from round. Sam left the Tour, and his best friends, Tom Watson and Ontario, Canada, wasted no time in beginning a series of major Peter Jacobson, in 1978 to help local road contractor Paul Brown

"Our mission is to take this beautiful place here at RedTail and remake it into one of the finest mountain golf resorts in the High Country, yet keep it affordable for the avid golfer."

Pictured below is the stylish bar in the dining room along with the outdoor patio, which offers a beautiful setting for lunch at the Club

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RedTail Mountain “The finest mountain golf in the High Country”

Mountain Golf ● Lodging Dining ● Events

RedTail Mountain Resort, located in beautiful Mountain City, Tennessee is just minutes from the Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and surrounding communities. RedTail, family owned and operated sits on more than 850 mountain acres offering beauti-ful mountain vistas and breath taking views with over 400 feet of elevation change on the property. At RedTail Mountain you will enjoy one of the finest mountain golf experiences available, upscale accommodations and great food along with numerous activities offered on our property and in the surrounding area. We are well suited for stay and play, corporate retreats, events, or a vacation. Redtail was recently recognized in the top 10 locations to retire in Tennessee.

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Several holes of the course can be seen from the putting green.

Sam Adams, of Boone, has headed up Golf Operations for RedTail from the day the course was built. build and operate the new course in Mountain City.

It was Sam's passion for RedTail that convinced Lyle Habermehl to purchase the property. "I saw in Sam and the people he worked with a love for this place, and that love was contagious. I caught it and so did my family."

FAMILY OWNED, FAMILY ATMOSPHERE

A much improved golf course by itself does not make a destination so the Habermehl family upgraded and converted the seven three-bedroom condominiums near the clubhouse into stay-and-play lodging, adding private baths for each bedroom.

Lyle's wife, Kendal, added a warm, home touch with luxury linens and high-end pillow-top mattresses. The kitchens are modern and stylish, and each unit has a fireplace and scenic view, as well as a WiFi connection.

A fitness center will replace the pro shop in the 19,000 square foot clubhouse and a spa will be added. Next to the clubhouse are tennis courts and a soon-to-be-opened swimming pool.

The 11th hole is beautiful but treacherous.

When the pen is in front of the green it is very easy to shoot second shots into theAugust lake / September 2014 70 High Country Magazine

An amazing view of the course from the clubhouse.

RedTail is truly a family operation. General manager Vernon Brady, Lyle Habermehl's brother-in-law, said, "Our mission is to take this beautiful place here at RedTail and remake it into one of the finest mountain golf resorts in the High Country, yet keep it affordable for the avid golfer."

Brady's wife, Lynn, shares the general manager's duties and has focused on making RedTail's restaurant the premiere dining experience in the area, both in the quality of the meals and in the warm, genuine guest service. A meal at the restaurant is worth a dinner out-

Vernon and Lynn Brady, who share the managerial duties of RedTail. ing from Boone. This fall, RedTail will become semi-private and gated at night to provide extra security for property owners and guests.

AN AFFORDABLE, FIRSTCLASS DESTINATION

To further develop RedTail as a destination, the family purchased 32 acres of prime, gently sloping land on Lake Watauga which will include a shelter and docks for RedTail members and guests. The pristine lake with its 105 miles of shoreline is a recreational haven for boating, fishing, water skiing and camping. It is considered the third cleanest lake in America and over half of it lies within the protective borders of the Cherokee National Forest.

One of the High Country's most popular options for quality evening entertainment is not far from Mountain City. Abingdon, VA, is the home of the Barter Theatre, Virginia's state theater known for its high quality performances. If a "staycation" outing includes the wives, an evening at the Barter makes RedTail an even more attractive destination.

Vernon Brady is serious when he says RedTail will be a high quality, yet very affordable destination. Special green fee rates and condominium rental rates make several days at RedTail the best deal around for small groups. For example, if some golfing friends come for an outing, and there was one person to a bed, the rate would come out to $100 per night to include 18 holes of golf and cart (add $16 for a second 18). And to make a great deal even better, be sure to fill up your gas tank in Mountain City before heading home and save 20-to-30 cents a gallon! Contact Brady or Sam Adams at 423/727-7600, or visit RedTailMountain.com for more information. Set up tee times online or make reservations, order meals, and even get a Sam Adams golf lesson from RedTail's mobile app.

With the variety of fun things to do at RedTail, and in its surrounding area, Brady likes to say, "It's not how far away you go, but how far away you feel." ď ´

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For Information on the Town of Seven Devils: 828/963-5343 • www.SevenDevils.net Ad Sponsored by the Seven Devils Tourism Development Authority August / September 2014

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What Lies Beneath: The Art Cellar Gallery Hosts ‘Form and Mystery,’ an Exhibition of Artist Herb Jackson

by Madison Fisler Lewis 72

High Country Magazine

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uring the month of August, The Art Cellar Gallery in Banner Elk will feature works by nationally recognized artist Herb Jackson in the main floor gallery. Herb Jackson’s “Form and Mystery” showcase, which will run from July 30-Aug. 23, will focus on his drawings, small paintings and vitreographs.

For many, the mere mention of Jackson’s name conjures images of his vibrant and textured canvases. His passion and commitment for his artwork have been unyielding since the beginning, and the Art Cellar is proud to showcase the “Form and Mystery” exhibition to provide the High Country the chance to see the work of such a dynamic and prolific artist.

Jackson’s work resides in public and private collections from all over the world. His exhibition list includes the likes of the Smithsonian Institution, The British Museum in London, the Chicago Art Institute, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and more.

Meet the Artist

“My involvement was for 42 years with Davidson College,” Jackson said. “Over that time, I had hundreds of wonderful students to work with, some of whom have become lifelong friends. I really miss that about teaching and I really loved my students.”

Jackson mostly taught painting classes, but along the way he also taught classes in drawing along with seminars.

One thing that was consistent in all his years of teaching was his rejection of techniquebased teaching and his preference for allowing his students to create through experience, much like the process that has made him famous today.

“My teaching was not technique based, because I don’t believe technique makes art. My teaching was based on a system of ‘let’s do it and let’s talk about it.’ If a student would say ‘I don’t like this painting’ my first question would be to ask what they don’t like about it. We would discuss the options and we would look at it later and see where it went.”

Over the years, Jackson garnered many awards for his work including the ACS Award in 2008, The North Carolina Award in 1999 and the Hunter-Hamilton Love of Teaching Award in 2003.

Today, after spending decades sharing his love for art with young minds, Jackson has retired to do what he loves most: creating beautiful artwork.

“I have the freedom now to spend as much or as little time as I want in the stu–Herb Jackson dio,” Jackson said.

“If I had another 100 years I still wouldn’t exhaust the possibilities of what I am working with now. I am always open to new things but I really love what I do. The reason I keep making these things is so I can see them and enjoy them. I send my work out mainly because if I didn’t there wouldn’t be room for any new ones. You want other people to have an experience with your work and that gives them an ongoing life. There are thousands of my pieces all over the world. It is a legacy that I leave behind.”

“If I had another 100 years I still wouldn’t exhaust the possibilities of what I am working with now. I am always open to new things but I really love what I do.

Herb Jackson was born and raised in the Raleigh area, and started his artistic career in childhood.

“My sister was four years older than me and I modeled myself after her when I first took an interest in art,” Jackson said.

“What drew me to be an artist had nothing to do with any teacher. The whole focus on the discipline and creativity began around age 7 or 8 with writing poetry, and at age 12 is when I committed to having a studio and painting every day.”

As a gestural abstract painter, Jackson developed a unique process for his artwork that has led to his fame in the art world.

His process is one that he describes as a process of discovery similar to the life experience itself.

“Breathing is where I get my inspiration I suppose. I am not sure I even believe in inspiration. The point is just being alive, and life experience is all that I need.”

A talented artist since childhood, Jackson also found himself involved in education for more than four decades.

Jackson received his education at Davidson College in North Carolina, Philips Universitat in Marlburg, West Germany and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. After many years traveling and exhibiting his works, Jackson turned to educating others in the creative process.

A Unique Creative Process

Jackson’s process starts with layers of acrylic paint on a canvas, which sometimes reaches 100 layers or more. His process of layering leads to the removal of layers of paint, revealing color and forms below the surface.

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“I just put color over color over color,” Jackson said. “That gives me plenty of time to begin to understand the surface of that particular painting. At a certain point there is enough material for me to begin carving out shapes and the painting at that point creates itself.”

When asked about what influences his artwork, Jackson credits the experience and discovery of life as his inspiration of sorts.

“I think that without getting too complex, essentially accessing your previous life experience brings the work to life. Everything you have ever read, everyone you have ever met, and every place you have ever been. As you work, all of that has a bearing on the piece. I think it is very much similar to the way you go through life. You think you know what is going to happen, but really anything can happen. Discovery is the nature of how we live and with my work, rather than representing those things that I see, I am more interested in presenting something new that comes out of my life experience. If it is going to be new it can’t be something that I can intellectually construct. I allow the process of discovery to define the painting and that makes the experience unique.”

The path to this unique style of art began in Jackson’s early years.

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“I would say that I started out on a normal path of any artist in my early years,” Jackson said. “When I was 12 I was trying to do figures, still life and landscapes, but very quickly I determined that going inside was more interesting and difficult than representing what is outside. It is not hard to render what you see. For me, I would say the process of going inward was from age 15.”

While his process is indeed unusual and unique, Jackson doesn’t like to romanticize the notion of his artistic process.

“It is sometimes a maddening process,” Jackson said. “It is not always a romantic, ecstatic and exalting experience. It is very serious and meditative. If I am putting on a color, I am working just a few square inches at a time. I have to have a lot of awareness. It is like Zen meditation, but you have to remain mindful the whole time. If you get lazy or hurried, you may later have regrets. It is an intense process, but it is worth it.”

Form and Mystery

“We are excited to be able to present such a broad range of work from this important artist,” said Pam McKay, owner of The Art Cellar Gallery who has long admired Jackson’s work and has represented the artist for several years.

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The exhibition itself will include oil pastels on paper, oils on birch panel, acrylics on canvas and a collection of solar plate etchings of nudes along with vitreograph prints on paper.

The pieces that will be on display were carefully hand-selected by McKay from Jackson’s studio.

“It is always exciting to walk through Herb’s spectacular studio space and look at his breathtaking work,” McKay said in a press release. “We look forward to installing this show and sharing it with our visitors.”

For more information about the Herb Jackson “Form and Mystery” exhibition and other gallery artists and events, visit www.

ArtCellarOnline.com or call 828-898-5175.

The Art Cellar Gallery is located in Banner Elk on N.C. 184. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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Summer Dining Guide It’s the height of the summer dining season in the High Country, and there’s no better time to enjoy a casual lunch, a relaxing brunch or a romantic dinner. For your culinary inspiration, you’ll find dozens of fine establishments in the following pages.

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High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

banner elk sushi club BANNER ELK. The Banner Elk Sushi Club is part of the Downtown Banner Elk Nightlife Group in conjunction with Sorrentos Italian Bistro, The Barra Sport Bar and the Bayou Smokehouse and Grill. Their concept is to present something different to the area of Banner Elk, providing a big city type restaurant and bar in a small town. The Sushi Club also offers a sit down bar area, seating to eat sushi with friends, a dance floor with laser lights and a stage for comedy performances. n 828.8981940. www.bannerelksushiclub.com.

See ad on page 85

REAL FOOD FOR REAL PEOPLE Casual Mountain Dining

BARRA BANNER ELK. Barra Sports Bar, Tequila Bar, Outside Fire Pit and Cigar Lounge is located in the downtown village shops of Banner Elk North Carolina.

With seven big flat screens Barra allows you to see your favorite sports teams or major events in an upscale setting with family or friends. As you walk in you will see an elegant old timey Boston style wood bar complimented by Miami style art deco with a mountain Indian flair. There is a comfortable group of leather couches and many high bars with seating; covered in brushed copper tabletops and wrapped in leather. n 828-898-7727. www.www.bannerelkbarra.com. See ad on page 85

CAFÉ PORTOFINO BOONE. For a lovely night out with the family or a fantastic evening on the town, look no further than Cafe Portofino. Café Portofino offers a casual atmosphere and truly 5-star dining. Located on Rivers Street, the self-described “Garlic House” menu is a creative mix of Thai, Eurasian and Italian influences.

Enjoy daily culinary specials and fresh seafood every day. An eclectic blend of sandwiches, pastas and more, Cafe Portofino has something for everyone. For after-hours entertainment, check out the adjoining taproom featuring billiards and darts, and try out one of fifty bottle and draft beers from around the world.

Don’t forget to stop by on Wednesday nights for trivia, prizes and drink specials

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Salmon Cake .......................7.95 over wilted greens

Grilled Asparagus ...............5.95 proscuitto and fresh mozzarella, drizzled with basil oil

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Ravioli of Summer Squash and Zucchini .......................15.95 pomodora sauce, choice of house salad

Homemade Chicken Pot Pie ...15.95 chicken, carrots, peas and creamy savory sauce, choice of house salad

Grilled Chicken Bruschetta ... 17.95 grilled breast of chicken topped with fresh tomato bruschetta, choice of house salad and one side

Grilled Center Cut Pork Chop...18.95

Ole Tennessee smoky peach moonshine compote, choice of house salad and one side

Shrimp & Sausage Pasta ...18.95 penne pasta served with sauteed shrimp, andouille sausage and a lime buttersauce, choice of house salad

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& Friday and Saturday until Midnight Full Bar (open until 2am) 14 Beers on Draught focused on Imports and Micro Brews

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every week. Tuesday features half-price bottles of house wine, and kids under ten eat free on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult entree. n 828-264-7772. www.cafeportofino.net. See ad on page 83

Canyons Blowing Rock. Located just off of the scenic, winding highway 321 in Blowing Rock, this historic restaurant and bar is well known all over the High Country for its spectacular and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, its scrumptious southwestern choices and unique takes on ordinary American eats. All dishes on the menu are freshly prepared in house with the finest ingredients available. Canyons in Blowing Rock regularly offers a wide variety of seasonally fresh items, so ask about the fantastic nightly specials in addition to the daily menu selections. Every Sunday, enjoy a delicious brunch accompanied by live jazz music.

Canyons also offers a diverse selection of domestic and imported wines and a large selection of beers chosen to complement the items on the menu. Just ask a member of the friendly staff for a recommendation, or try something new. n 828-295-7661. www.CanyonsBR.com.

See ad on page 79

CASA RUSTICA BOONE. Conveniently located right off Highway 105, Casa Rustica offers some of the finest Northern Italian-American cuisine in the High Country accentuated by a cozy, fireside atmosphere. Dishes on the menu, from the crisp salads to the scrumptious pastas, are adapted from old family recipes that have been handed down for generations. The chefs and owners at Casa Rustica are also committed to offering local beef in their cuisine and proudly offer homestyle meals made with love and meticulous care. Casa Rustica’s extensive wine list is updated every 30 days to include interesting vintages and new organics.

Enjoy live jazz every Thursday night and classical guitar every Sunday. The restaurant also features a full bar and fantastic drink selections to delight even the pickiest patron. n 828-2625128. www.casarustica1981.com. See ad on page 78 78

High Country Magazine

August / September 2014

Char modern american restaurant BOONE. char ... where New York City meets the Blue Ridge Mountains! A unique, contemporary bistro located in downtown Boone, offering diverse, creative and delectable brunch, lunch and dinner cuisine in a warm, open, cosmopolitan setting. char also features a covered deck and a sleek modern bar.

Sample some of their distinctive modern American cuisine including signature dishes including the famous Low Country Shrimp & Grits, the delicious Angus hand-cut Ribeye Steak the refreshing Turkey & Brie Sandwich and the local favorite Grilled Tilapia Fish Tacos. Nightly Entertainment. Come join us at char for Food • Drinks • Music • Art • Fun ... n 828-266-2179. www.char179.com. See ad on page 81

CHESTNUT GRILLE AT GREEN PARK INN BLOWING ROCK. Come enjoy our remodeled restaurant, The Chestnut Grille. The Divide Tavern and Lounge is now serving mixed beverages in addition to an extensive wine and beer menu. The Chestnut Grille offers Comfort Cooking with a touch of Gourmet, a thoughtful wine selection, and service befitting your expectations. Join us at this newly restored National Historic Register property. The hotel includes 88 guest rooms at the inn to accommodate parties large or small. Reservations can be made on our website. n 828-414-9230. www.greenparkinn. com. See ad on page 77

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www.gamekeeper-nc.com

(828) 963-7400

EAT CROW BANNER ELK. Eat Crow is a wonderful little cafe specializing in fresh baked, delicious goods including a large variety of baked pies and cakes. These delectables are offered by the slice, or you have the option to order a whole one to take home and enjoy. We also offer fresh made sandwiches at lunch time that can not be compared to any other “sandwich shop” in the area. Since we know life can be very hectic, for your convenience we prepare whole meals and fresh soups daily that are ready for August / September 2014

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Summer Dining Guide you to take home and heat up for your family. These entrees vary daily. We are always creating something delicious! All sandwiches are served on farmhouse or whole wheat bread. Choices of sides include fresh fruit, firecracker coleslaw or chips. We are open Tuesday Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and are located near Foscoe on Hwy. 105 between Boone and Banner Elk. n 828-963-8228. See ad on page 76

The Eseeola Lodge

Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10 am daily Dinner: 5 pm – 10 pm daily Pub Lunch: Noon to 3 pm daily

Oyster “Knight”

with Tim Knight’s Famous Fried Oysters Monday Evenings | $26 per person

Steak on the Lake

Wednesday Evenings | $28 per person

Kids Eat Free

Thursday Evenings | Ages 10 and under

828-295-5505 | www.Chetola.com 80

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linville. Guests enjoy breakfast and dinner daily as part of their accommodations package, but all High Country visitors are welcome to enjoy the finest cuisine. Spend a leisurely morning with us, or grab a quick bite on your way out for the day. Either way, an outstanding breakfast awaits you each morning in our dining room. Then enjoy lunch at the Grill Room in the Linville Golf Club, where resort casual wear is appropriate for daytime meals. For the evening meal, select your choice of seven meticulously prepared entrees crafted by Chef Patrick Maisonhaute at the helm of your culinary experience. The menu changes daily, and also offers an extraordinary seafood buffet every Thursday evening with seatings at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Reservations are required, and gentlemen are required to wear a coat for the evening meal. n 800-742-6717. www.eseeola.com. See ad on page 83

Gamekeeper Blowing Rock. You haven’t fully experienced the region until you’ve dined at The Gamekeeper. It’s a true gourmet restaurant, with the perfect blend of upscale elegance and simple mountain charm. The Gamekeeper is famous for Southern favorites - ultimate in comfort food - prepared with creativity and originality, offered through an evolving seasonal menu that blends the traditional with the exotic, satisfying both the meat lover and the vegetarian. Housed in a 1950s stone cottage, The Gamekeeper is an upscale restaurant that offers an eclectic mix of Southern foods and mountain cuisine, offering a selection of unique meat dishes including mountain trout, buffalo rib eye, ostrich, duck and beef tenderloin. The friendly staff literally waits on you hand and foot, assuring that you’ll leave happy and satisfied. The restaurant is located off Shulls Mill Road near Yonahlossee Resort. n 828-963-7400. www.Gamekeeper-NC.com. See ad on page 79

JOY Bistro Boone. Joy Bistro is known all over the High Country as the resident purveyors of Fine Food & Drink. Chefs and Owners Melissa Joy and Gary Claude welcome you to come in and enjoy delicious, unique food selections and delightful cocktails in a casual, warm and inviting setting. Enjoy a relaxed and inviting atmosphere while you experience their unique, handcrafted cuisine.

Exclusively fresh and always seasonal ingredients are expertly utilized in their many nightly specials as in all of the daily items in their superb menu.

Enjoy scrumptious selections like the famous firecracker shrimp, the unique blood orange salad, local meats and pasta options, and a wonderful dessert like creme brulee or espresso torte. The friendly staff is always on hand to assist you with expert recommendations for dining selections and wine pairings for your choices. Joy Bistro also serving lunch this summer and offers a full bar, an extensive wine list, & craft beers for guests to enjoy. n 828-265-0500 www.joybistroboone.com. See ad on page 76

Red Onion Café Boone. Established in 1985 as one of the classic restaurants in Boone NC, the Red Onion Café opens daily at 11am and serves continuously to hungry guests well into the evening. The Red Onion Café has created its niche in the High Country for more than 30 years by offering customers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere and an extensive menu at affordable prices.

The café has something for every member of the family, including burgers, sandwiches, wraps, pizza, pasta, fish, steak and delicious homemade desserts. Look for weekly dinner specials and the kid’s menu items as well. The Red Onion Café also offers several of the region’s top beer and wines to compliment any meal as well as friendly staff on hand to assist with your choices from the extensive menu. The outside patio is perfect for a comfortable outdoor lunch or for a cozy dinner on warm evenings. n 828-264-5470. www.theredonioncafe.com. See ad on page 81 August / September 2014

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six pence pub Blowing rock. In 2001 Six Pence opened in Blowing Rock, North Carolina and has been a Blowing Rock staple for visitors and residents alike ever since. Known all over the High Country for establishing itself as a fine example of British fare, the friendly staff, delicious food and extensive beer and wine selection make this local watering hole a local favorite. From traditional British favorites like Shepherd’s Pie and fish and chips to Americanstyle burgers, house made soups and salads, this eatery and bar alleviates everyone’s hunger pains and provides a unique dining experience right on beautiful Main Street. Who knew that one could find such exceptional British cuisine in the heart of the High Country? The pub now proudly features a new patio so guests can choose to sit outside and enjoy their meals and enjoy the beautiful views of Main Street.

Or step inside to the air conditioned interior to beat the heat this summer season. n 828-295-3155. www.sixpencepub.com. See ad on page 78

sorrento’s banner elk. Sorrento’s Italian Bistro is a family run business and has been serving Italian dishes since 1983 to locals and travelers alike. Sorrento’s has evolved in to an eclectic gourmet Italian cuisine open seven days a week and for lunch and dinner. Patrons come back again and again for the Crab Cakes and the Tortellini Sorrentos. This upscale eclectic gourmet Italian Bistro, is a combination of a visual and culinary celebration. Although the menu is Southern Italian cuisine, the sky’s the limit for special events and private parties. n 828-898-5214. www.sorrentosbistro.com. See ad on page 84

timberlake’S RESTAURANT AT CHETOLA RESORT BLOWING ROCK. On July 28, 2012, Chetola officially opened Timberlake’s Restaurant in the historical building, with a menu inspired by worldrenowned North Carolina artist and designer Bob Timberlake’s culinary

favorites. The restaurant features three dining rooms, an intimate wine room and waterfront dining on the Patio. The charming and warmly outfitted Headwaters Pub is just inside Timberlake’s main entrance. Bob Timberlake, who is known for creating things of exceptional artistry and imagination, used his deeply rooted love of food as the impetus behind the distinctive menu. From Mesquite-dusted shrimp and salads of mountain-grown spinach, to Carolinaraised trout and roasted Carolina quail, each dish will be one worth savoring.

A mouth-watering array of brick-oven pizzas, tender Angus beef filets, seafood, poultry, and an inspired selection of health and wellness dishes will also tempt palates of all tastes. n 828295-5505. www.chetola.com. See ad on page 80.

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vidalia Boone. Centrally located on King Street in downtown Boone, Vidalia is a casual, upscale restaurant featuring “creative American cuisine.” Featuring creative menu items for lunch and dinner, it offers daily specials, various events, wine tastings and special nights. Famous menu items include the apple and gorgonzola salad, shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles and mushroom ravioli, with finishing choices like stone ground grits and cheddar mac n’ cheese. All of these choices come to you from the culinary mind of Chef Samuel Ratchford, who also owns the restaurant with his wife Alyce. Taking pride in the local community, the restaurant is proud to offer various local ingredients and choices to patrons who are looking to try local fare. Vidalia holds all ABC permits and has an extensive wine list which routinely features over 60 different wines which can be expertly paired with meals by the staff, a large selection of craft beers, martinis, whiskeys, scotches and cordials. Vidalia’s menu changes twice a year to keep it seasonal and practices farm-to-table food, using local vendors as much as possible. n 828-263-9176. www.vidaliaofboone.com. See ad on page 76

Sun, Tue - Thurs: 11:30 am - 9:00 pm • Fri - Sat: 11:30 am - 10:00 pm 970 Rivers Street • 828-264-7772 • w w w. c a f e p o r t o fi n o . n e t

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call for reservations

828.733.4311 High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

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Thursday / Friday dinner specials B A N N E R E L K

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Located Next To Sorrento’s at Village Shops Downtown 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, North Carolina 28604 HouRS oF oPeRaTioN

Thursday: 5:00pm - until • Friday & Saturday: 5:00pm - 2:00am Open Wednesdays for Jazz Night from June thru September at 5:00pm-12:00am Sunday: Sushi Club Closed, Barra 4:00pm - 12:00am (1pm – 12:00am during football season) ALL SpeciALS bASeD oN proDucT AVAiLAbiLiTy August / September 2014 High

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Red Hot

BY LINDA KRAMER 86

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L

arry and Lynda Price of Charlotte, were, as are many these days in a hurried world, looking for a refuge. They had been to the western North Carolina Mountains many times over the years to visit friends, so they were familiar with the High Country and all that the area had to offer. When the couple saw a model home in Linville in the Cranberry Cove section of Linville Ridge, everything fit…the right location, right size and exactly the casual atmosphere they were looking for to serve not only as their refuge but also as an ideal setting for a lifestyle revolving around comfortable and frequent entertaining. Known as the consummate hosts, the couple travels with friends and family and makes a great team with Lynda cooking and Larry raiding the man cave for that special bottle of wine for guests. They purchased the home in 2009 and it has proven to be everything they dreamed of as an escape from the demands of their formal lifestyle in Charlotte, where Larry is an attorney.

Architect Bob Mann of Attic Design in Banner Elk, designed the home to reflect

a mix of familiar mountain styles including craftsman, arts and crafts and plain old mountain elegance. Mann skillfully utilized the natural resources of stone, cedar shingle and bark on the exterior and carried the wood hues to the interior detailing to add warmth and depth. As Mann says, “The goal was to create the curb appeal of an intimate, cozy cottage with that same feel carrying to the inside. This was done by breaking up the facade into small-scale elements and further reinforcing that with highly textured siding materials and trim inside. The spaces were broken up by beam work and varying ceiling heights, giving a hierarchy to the various volumes.”

Everything worked. By configuring the 3,600 sq. ft. into 3 bedrooms and 4 1/2 baths of both practical and intimate living space, the flexibility of the floor plan was maximized.

Tapping into Lynda’s love of color, Pam McKay, ASID, of Dianne Davant & Associates in Banner Elk, transformed the home’s original predominately white palette into a vivid explosion of color using well-placed splashes of Lynda’s favorite color: red. With

"The goal was to create the curb appeal of an intimate, cozy cottage with that same feel carrying to the inside."

– Architect Bob Mann of Attic Design in Banner Elk

Relaxed living room is highly detailed with traditional furnishings, wood elements, stone fireplace and traditional furnishings that create a warm cottage feel.

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ABOVE: The log pickets of the bridge above provide yet another rustic touch. This spans from one guest bedroom to the other and to the man cave and wine room at the end of the hall. This bridge also provides a beautiful view to the living room below.

Hawk Mountain Nursery in (Banner Elk transformed a wild, unruly overgrown landscape into a sea of ever-changing blooms and elaborate gardens.

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The expansion of outdoor deck space that flows into the surrounding woods allows owners more room for entertaining.

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expert integration, Pam skillfully utilized the vibrant scarlet hues in a way that doesn’t overwhelm but rather contributes to the overall casual and warm cottage feel.

Although the home is new, a rustic style interior mixed with the refinement of the carefully chosen traditional furnishings, colorful rugs, books and the works of various and impressive local artists including Scott Boyle and Richard Oversmith, the interiors lend themselves to an overall air of establishment and permanence.

Lynda says, “Pam did a great job with the interior design using her excellent resources and intuition for nuance. She captured exactly the feel we were both looking for and the perfect balance between our personalities and practicality. She made the whole project fun and easy for us.”

The owners recently increased the outside deck to twice the original size and they spend most of their time there, weather permitting, using the area as extended entertaining space.

Hawk Mountain Tree Farm in Banner Elk took over on the outside with Sonja Garland leading the landscape team. They transformed an unruly landscape into wellplanned gardens that combine native plants with ever-changing annual and perennial flowerbeds festive to the seasons and linked easily to the wooded surroundings and natural foliage.

This quiet retreat is one of three homes owned by the Prices and is their favorite. It’s a stunning example of how differing elements can at the same time satisfy the needs of its owners, have an easy relationship with the outdoors and serve as a refuge that is the perfect combination of harmony, activity, calm and red hot sizzle. 

Extraordinary Choice,

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At Well•Spring, we strive to be your first choice for retirement living.

Contact us today to learn more about our award-winning community.

www.well-spring.org

4100 Well Spring Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410 Phone: (336) 545-5400

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Kalco, Zuegma, lighting August / September 2014

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ABOVE: The space over the garage affords a comfortable and private spot for wine tastings and sports viewing.

This is conveniently located at the end of the bridge but away from the main living space.

This room can also double as an extra guest bedroom when needed.

BELOW: Warm colors of the bedding and fabric contrast with the cooler pale blue Cowtan & Tout leopard fabric on the bench.

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Tom Robbins An Imaginative Life

By Melanie Bullard 94

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@

JEFF CORWIN

@

There is a saying oft applied to the High Country; ‘If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute and it will change.’ The same can be said of the resident population, especially in the summer. When the temperature swelters off the mountain caravans arrive carrying heat-weary flatlanders in need of a respite from the fevered and hectic worlds they endure. That influx transforms drowsy Blowing Rock, NC, with an official population of just under 1,200, into a lively, bustling village that can swell to more than 8,000 in any given summer weekend. It’s been this way since the 19th century.

While many have witnessed the transformation over the past 140 years, few have been as inspired by the experience as Blowing

Rock native, turned international best-selling author Tom Robbins who describes the annual summer scene in depression-era Blowing Rock in his new release Tibetan Peach Pie: A True Account of an Imaginative Life.

“Blowing Rock was a summer resort, and a rather posh one. Lured by the area’s beauty and cool mountain air, wealthy families from throughout the Southeast maintained summer residences there…Beginning in early June, our sidewalks sported pedestrians in tennis whites and gold jewelry, our streets opened their asphalt arms to European sports cars and luxury sedans… It was an annual occurrence. Come June, the merry masquerade began; come Septem-

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alexa robbins

“In general, life in the South proceeds more leisurely than in the rest of the land, and that very languor may help keep imagination alive there."

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– –- Tom Robbins

ber, Appalachian reality settled upon the community with a mournful sigh.”

Robbins witnessed this conversion as a child, and says it is no wonder that transformation became a fairly prominent theme in many of his novels, which include Another Roadside Attraction, Jitterbug Perfume, Even Cowgirls Get the Blues and Still Life with Woodpecker. But just as prominent in Robbins’ psyche and storytelling élan are the mountain men and women whom he admired as a boy.

“Allowed to roam freely in both the streets and the woods, I observed and interacted not only with the wonders of nature but with an assortment of squir-

rel hunters, rabbit trappers, berry pickers, banjo pickers, moonshiners, tramps, real Gypsies, snake handlers, mule-back preachers (like my grandpa), eccentric characters with names such as Pink Baldwin and Junebug Tate, and perhaps most influential, bib-overalled raconteurs, many of whom spun stories as effortlessly and expertly as they spit tobacco juice.” Tibetan Peach Pie

In September 2014, for the first time in more than 70 years, Tom Robbins will return home to Blowing Rock and the mountain community that so magically shaped his childhood.

The homecoming, which includes a plethora of events is the brainchild of Ap-

Blowing Rock circa 1940, photo from Blowing Rock Historical Society

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palachian State University graduate, and University Library Advisory Board Chair Craig Popelars.

“During my senior year (1989) my English Department advisor, Dr. Melissa Barth, assigned me Tom Robbins’ first novel and cult classic, Another Roadside Attraction.

It was no doubt the most mind-expanding work of literature I had ever read,” professes Popelars. “Here was a writer who drew outside the lines, challenged the norm, played with perspective, took great risks, and blended the sublime with the subversive, the cosmic with the comic.”

In other words, it was transformational. Popelars is one of millions who have been captivated and somehow changed by Tom Robbins’ exceptional talent and mas-

tery. As North Carolina poet laureate Joseph Bathanti observes, even if you’ve never read Robbins, you probably have been influenced by him.

“Tom Robbins is one of those fantastic storytellers who comes along during a key time in the culture, opens doors previously invisible, and gives permission to other writers to try new things while evangelizing not only an entire generation of readers, but bringing his influence to bear even on those who don’t know his work.”

Julie Townsend, a huge Robbins fan and English instructor at Appalachian was one of the first people in the nation to write her Master’s Thesis on Robbins’ work. As she puts it, his novels are so striking, once you read one, you never forget.

“His characters are the caricatures in and of our lives: we know them and sometimes we are them. His characterizations, plots, and the dialogues morph into what we’ve always wanted to say but never had the guts to and probably never will.”

Robbins’ eclectic perspective and challenge of convention was so cutting-edge fifty years ago, he and his novels were not always ingratiating to those of a religious persuasion. This may have included his maternal and paternal grandfathers, both of whom were North Carolina Baptist preachers. When asked if his unconventional and adventurous life and its work led to handwringing and praying, Robbins responded.

“Undoubtedly, but most of it occurred in private when I wasn’t physically present. And though they would have denied it, there may be a certain element of concealed admiration.”

Today, those who aspire to a Robbinsesque life of transformation, liberation and celebration, are considered hipsters. When Robbins embraced the trend, he was considered a counter-culture figure and writer. It is a label Robbins recently told NPR he does not necessarily embrace.

“Establishment critics, to this day, write me off as a counter-culture writer, even though of my nine novels, the last six have had nothing to do with counter-culture things. And I wouldn’t have missed the ‘60s for a billion dollars — but neither I nor my life’s work can be defined by counter-culture sensibilities. They’re inserting this image of me as a counter-culture figure in between their eyes and the page. Though, to be fair, I stopped reading reviews of my books in 1977.”

Fans have not stopped reading Robbins books or clamoring for a moment in his presence. Tibetan Peach Pie: A True Ac-

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Growing Up in Blowing Rock count of an Imaginative Life rocketed to the New York Times bestseller list upon its release earlier this summer, and his tour was a sellout in five cities, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and his current home, Seattle. Robbins says Tibetan Peach Pie “waddles and quacks enough like a memoir to be mistaken for one if the light isn’t right,” but he prefers to call the book more precisely “a sustained narrative composed of the absolutely true stories I’ve been telling the women in my life, and which at their insistence I’ve finally written down.”

It is all the more reason Popelars, who became friends with Robbins and embarked on a career in publishing, has convinced the prodigal son, who celebrated his 82nd birthday in July to return home.

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“It is time to embrace this Watauga County, home-grown literary hero, Popelars proclaims. “Tom is one of the most important and influential American writers of the last fifty years. He’s given readers a litany of entertaining and wildly imaginative literary gifts. I think that a celebratory homecoming of an iconic and important writer born and raised in the High Country is long overdue.”

Robbins is finally ready to make the 3,000 mile journey from Washington State.

“In general, life in the South proceeds more leisurely than in the rest of the land, and that very languor may help keep imagination alive there. In a fast-paced, competitive environment where there is little time for daydreams, reflection, or lan-

August / September 2014

guage for language’s sake, human imagination cannot thrive. In Blowing Rock, I look forward to the “purple mountains’ majesty” – and the enchantment of cascading personal nostalgia.”

Part of Robbins’ walk down memory lane will no doubt include rediscovering his family home, on what was First Street.

In Tibetan Peach Pie, he writes of the beginnings of his storytelling calling, and how he would wander for hours about the yard with a stick, making up and beating out the rhythmic tales on the ground as he went.

As he grew, he left the sticks, and North Carolina behind for Virginia and eventually the west coast. While all of Robbins residences have been fodder for his literary genius, it is perhaps Blowing Rock most of all, and one place in particular that ignited

OPPOSITE PAGE LEFT: Tom and Granny Robbins OPPOSITE page right: Could this be one of Tom’s “Talking Sticks?” above left: Tom Robbins with little sister Rena. Rena died at age 4. She is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery TOP RIGHT:Tom with parents George Thomas Robbins and Katherine Robinson Robbins and twin sisters Marian and Mary Katherine. Tom is eight

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BOTTOM RIGHT: Tom, the self-proclaimed ambulatory, articulate, jabbering baby

“Neither I nor my life's work can be defined by counter-culture sensibilities. They're [Establishment Critics] inserting this image of me as a counter-culture figure in between their eyes and the page."

university of washington libraries, special collections, uw36265

- Tom Robbins August / September 2014

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Appalachian State

University Libraries AND THE

Library Advisory Board PRESENT

Blowing Rock Native AND International Best Selling Author

Tom Robbins

A True

As Robbins turned 82 on July 22, 2014 Appalachian State University Libraries celebrated with a “novel” idea for the cake. “... Language is not the frosting, it’s the cake”- Tom Robbins.

Photo by Jon Morris

Account

Imagi

of an native

Life

Jeff Corwin

Doors open:

6:30p.m.

11th of Sept

7:00p.m.

Rosen Concert Hall

Get your fREE

Ticket Beginningth

Aug. 20

at Schaefer Center

Box Office. st On Appalachian State 1 Come University Campus

Reserved

UNIVERSITY

BOOKSTORE

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his free spirit and self-proclaimed childhood appetite for enchantment.

“On our way to the Rock or one or another of our various woodland hideouts, my buddies and I frequently passed The Bark, and we tended to pause there for long minutes and stare at the place, as if it were an evil castle where a great treasure was stored. Once in a while we’d see gentlemen emerge (after, we knew, a bout of drinking and dancing inside); we’d see some tattooed fellow with a cigar in his teeth, and with what the Sunday school crowd called a “floozy” August / September 2014

on his arm; watch the couple straddle a big Harley-Davidson and go roaring out of the red clay parking lot, enveloped in an oxygen of freedom about whose perils and rewards we could scarcely guess.

At those moments, all I wanted was to quickly become old enough to drink beer, dance, get tattooed, smoke cigars, ride motorcycles, and have a floozy of my own on my arm.

Eventually I was to accomplish all of those things – and they proved in no way a disappointment. Who said The Bark was worse than its bite?

Tibetan Peach Pie

Tom Robbins on childhood, writing and love all of which, for him began in Blowing Rock!

As another Blowing Rock summer melts into autumn the man who was a malleable little boy the last time he walked the village streets will once again stand and marvel at the transformation to his hometown.

Childhood “It’s never too late to have a happy childhood.” – Still Life with Woodpecker

Let the Celebration Begin

As part of his homecoming, Robbins will deliver a rare southern reading at Appalachian State University. The event, scheduled for September 11, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. will be held in the Rosen Concert Hall, an intimate venue. Tickets are free, but must be reserved. They will be available beginning August 20, 2014 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts Appalachian State alumnus and University Library box office, or by calling 828Advisory Board chair Craig Popelars convinced 262-4046.

Tom Robbins that he can go home again. Popelars A Welcome Home Cockbefriended Robbins after reading his work while a tail Reception at the Blowing student.

He also wound up as Director of Marketing Rock Art and History Museum and Publicity for Algonquin Books.

(BRAHM) is set for Wednesday, September 10, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets for the event are $75 and can be purchased online. These will include an autographed copy of Tibetan Peach Pie and preferred seating at the September 11 event. Proceeds will benefit the University Libraries student employee scholarships.

Belk Library and Information Commons on Appalachian State University’s campus will show the film adaptation of Even Cowgirls Get the Blues on Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at 10:00 p.m. There will be free popcorn and the first three people through the door will get a copy of Tibetan Peach Pie. For more information: www.library.appstate.edu/news/2014/06/tom-robbins  Belk Library and Information Commons Appalachian State University

“When they tell you to grow up, they mean stop growing.” – Even Cowgirls Get the Blues “A child’s mind is its living room; it’s is going to be residing there for the rest of its earthly existence.” – Tom Robbins

Writing “The one thing emphasized in any creative writing course is ‘write what you know,’ and that automatically drives a wooden stake through the heart of imagination. If they really understood the mysterious process of creating fiction, they would say, ‘You can write about anything you can imagine.’”

– Tom Robbins “A lot of my work comes from what in Asia is called the ‘mind of wonder.’

There is not a lot of ‘mind of wonder’ writing in contemporary Western literature. I think that’s what appeals to the readers who are my fans.”

– Tom Robbins “We use so much bad language that it forms a barrier between ourselves and the truth.” – Tom Robbins

Love “The highest function of love is that it makes the loved one a unique and irreplaceable being.” – Jitterbug Perfume “Love easily confuses us because it is always in flux between illusion and substance, between memory and wish, between contentment and need.”

– Even Cowgirls Get the Blues “When two people meet and fall in love, there’s a sudden rush of magic. Magic is just naturally present then. We tend to feed on that gratuitous magic without striving to make any more. One day we wake up and find that the magic is gone. We hustle to get it back, but by then it’s usually too late, we’ve used it up. What we have to do is work like hell at making additional magic right from the start. It’s hard work, but if we can remember to do it, we greatly improve our chances of making love stay.”

– Still Life with Woodpecker

August / September 2014

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ADV E R T I S E R S I N D E X Please patronize the advertisers in High Country Magazine, and when you purchase from them, please be sure to mention that you saw their ad in our pages. Thank them for their support of this publication by giving them yours! Without their support, this magazine would not be possible. To all of our advertisers, a most sincere thank you.

All Area Codes are 828 unless noted.

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Salem Windows and Doors.............................. 356-7993........................... 27

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Almost Rodeo Drive

Store CloSing Sale!

Banner elk location only

At the Stoplight in Downtown

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Village at Banner elk Suite 101

828.898.4553

open tueSDAY-FriDAY, 10-5

35 - 70%

OFF Storewide August / September 2014

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Parting Shot...

I

Dave Mayo

Returning to The Big House

f New York Giants outfielder Bobby Thomson hit the “shot heard ‘round the world” against the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1951, then Appalachian State safety Corey Lynch made the “block heard ‘round the world” against the Michigan Wolverines on September 7, 2007.

Lynch’s play, which occurred at the end of regulation, secured a 34-32 victory over No. 5 Michigan at “The Big House” in Ann Arbor, Mich. – a win that Sports Illustrated dubbed an “all-time upset.”

It was the first time that a FCS football team had ever defeated a ranked FBS opponent – and Appalachian finally became a household name.

This coming Aug. 30, the two teams will face off for the first time since that historic game. This time, however, the Mountaineers are an FBS team, having joined the Sun Belt Conference in the 2014 season and will field a deeper team with 22 more scholarships available. They, however, won’t be coming off of two straight national championships as they did in 2007. Under first-year head coach Scott Satterfield, the Mountaineers finished 4-8 in 2013.

And even though the Wolverines will enter the 2014 season unranked, the Mountaineers won’t have that element of surprise that backed Michigan on its heels with an 11-point lead at halftime several years ago. Back then it’s likely that many of Michigan’s players hadn’t even heard of Appalachian State University – nor did they pronounce “Appa-LATCH-un” correctly.

But whatever happens on the field in August – whether the Mountaineers win, make it a game or are just steamrolled – nothing will ever take away the euphoria of the stunning silence in “The Big House” on that Saturday afternoon or the downright craziness of the college campus in Boone that night when the Mountaineers 104

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returned home.

And ASU Athletic Director Charlie Cobb dismissed any idea that a possible loss during the rematch would cause those moments to lose luster.

“Team USA is 11-21-2 against the Russians since the Miracle on Ice, and yet that record hasn’t done anything to diminish the beauty and the magic of the Miracle on Ice,” Cobb told The Sporting News in May. “Even if we were to lose, it doesn’t diminish what transpired back in 2007.”

If you can’t make it to Michigan on Aug. 30, check out the game on ESPN2 at noon.

The first home game is against Campbell on September 6 and will be promoted as a Heroes & Hall of Fame Day. In addition to the Campbell game, the Mountaineers will host South Alabama (Stripe the Stadium), Liberty (Homecoming) Georgia State (Family Weekend), Louisiana at Monroe (Black Saturday) and Idaho (Fan Appreciation & Senior Day) at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone.

Ticket prices for the Sept. 6 game against Campbell range from $27 to $37 for adults and $17 to $27 for youth ages 3 to 12. The remaining home games on the schedule are priced $32 to $42 for adults and $22 to $32 for youth ages 3 to 12. Game times vary, and kickoff for televised games will be announced as late as 12 days before the event because of an agreement that the Sun Belt Conference has with ESPN. To purchase tickets, contact the ASU Athletics Ticket Office at 828-262-2079, stop by the Holmes Convocation Center or click to www.AppStateSports.com.

By Jesse Wood

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L E S S O N S

F R O M

A

[10]

G R A N D F A T H E R

“There’s plenty to share that isn’t on your smartphone.” _ Grandfather

From your deck, Grandfather Mountain speaks to you.

Inspiring you to slow down, cherish time with family and friends, and soak up all the beauty and adventure the mountains have to offer. Echota is the most successful community in the history of the High Country with owners from across the Southeast. They’ve each learned that whether we’re talking about a mountain as ancient 133 Echota Parkway Boone, North Carolina 800.333.7601 EchotaNC.com

as time itself, or wisdom born from experience and love: When Grandfather speaks, you should listen. To arrange a tour of Echota, call 1.800.333.7601 or stop in today.

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