Hendersonville Magazine 2024-2025

HENDERSONVILLE MAGAZINE

EDITION VOLUME 43

WELCOME 2 HENDERSONVILLE 4

& FIGURES 14

DOWNTOWN & 7TH AVE 24

ROCK 32 FLETCHER 36

PARK 38 MILLS RIVER 42 ALE TRAIL 46

LOCAL DINING 50

ATTRACTIONS & FAMILY FUN 52

CULTURAL PURSUITS 60 THE GREAT OUTDOORS 66

PARKS & RECREATION 70

GOLF 76 PETS 82

COMMUNITY RESOURCES 86

HOUSING 96

ON THE COVER

Richard Labunski, a retired journalism professor and local artist, created “Tranquility” using artificial intelligence and photoediting programs. His images have been featured on several ArtScape banners on Main Street. Richard’s work is available at Art MoB Studios and Marketplace (see page 61) in downtown Hendersonville and online at RichardLabunski.com.

PICTORIAL DIRECTORY

Pictorial directories help you easily find what you’re looking for. These include resources for downtown businesses, local dining, REALTORS®, local services, personal health and self-care, as well as home and garden. See pages 29, 50-51, 104, 106, 139-143.

From the Publisher

The Hulsey Media team welcomes you to the 43rd annual edition of Hendersonville Magazine, the most comprehensive guide to enjoying all of what Henderson County has to offer within its businesses, lifestyles and communities. Our team is excited to share all of the new and existing attractions, celebrations, opportunities, resources and scenes that create such a vibrant community.

Within these pages and at HendersonvilleMagazine.com, you’ll learn more about the County’s history and charm as well as find an abundance of exciting ways to spend your time. Whether you are a visitor, newcomer or native to the area, you’ll discover a wealth of information to provide insight into what makes this area so special and unique.

In an effort to ensure individuals are easily able to make the most out of their time in our area, we also offer important community resources such as healthcare and education offerings, housing and retirement living options and a plethora of ways to connect within the community.

We are fortunate to have the ability to offer this resource at no cost because of the support of our fantastic advertising partners. As our readers, you are invited and encouraged to support them in return.

Our goal for this publication is to help everyone, residents and visitors alike, enjoy Hendersonville and Henderson County as much as we do; it’s certainly a place we are grateful to call home. We hope you enjoy this year’s edition as much as you enjoy our flourishing mountain communities.

Welcome to Hendersonville!

Brett Hulsey President & Publisher, Hulsey Media, Inc.

like to thank the fine businesses and organizations who have purchased advertising in our magazine, thereby helping us to bring you an attractive and

you have a business or provide a service that would benefit from exposure in

Other Free Resources from Hulsey Media

We also invite you to discover our other publications – The Discovery Map of Hendersonville, The Real Estate Book of Asheville/Hendersonville & NC Blue Ridge, WNC Homeowners Resource Guide, Aging Resources, Healthcare Resources, Hendersonville Holidays, Asheville Ale Trail, Upstate Ale Trail and WNC Business. Our suite of free magazines can be found conveniently at hundreds of businesses and organizations in Hendersonville and beyond. All of our publications also are available online, giving you local resources right at your fingertips.

These

Amanda and Jeffrey provide specialized real estate services, drawing upon their industry knowledge and a commitment to exceptional customer service.

Hendersonville –A City of Four Seasons

Situated on a scenic mountain plateau 2,200 feet above sea level, Henderson County is cradled by the Blue Ridge Mountains, a geography that gives the area its four distinct yet temperate seasons.

Decades ago, Dave Cooley and Kermit Edney created the slogan “The City of Four Seasons” for the Chamber of Commerce. Edney, a local weather expert, noted that this area provides the experience of all four seasons, although the mild climate does not subject visitors and residents to harsh winters like those up north or to the extreme heat of a Southern summer. Hendersonville’s pleasant climate traditionally

attracted part-time tourists and retirees.

As more people discover its excellent quality of life and four seasons of fun, Henderson County has become a destination that more visitors seek out year-round and where many families decide to make a permanent home.

SPRING

Springtime brings warm days bursting with breathtaking scenery, beckoning people to venture outside to enjoy the region’s outdoor activities. Many hike their favorite trails, visit area waterfalls or take their mountain bikes out for a spin. Locals and visitors alike anticipate downtown Hendersonville’s decorative plantings which include beds of colorful tulips enjoyed by people exploring downtown shops and restaurants. The Garden Jubilee entices garden lovers with plants, garden

Each season not only brings its own beauty to behold, but also provides a wide variety of activities and events to enjoy all year long. From fly fishing in the spring to hiking mountain trails in the summer to leaf-looking in the fall to snow tubing in the winter, there is always something fun to do in the City of Four Seasons. continued on page 6

Hendersonville’s historic downtown and the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains make it a unique place to live, work & play. Photo credit: Todd Bush

accessories and more for sale as well as free advice from horticultural experts.

SPRING CELEBRATIONS

GARDEN JUBILEE

9AM-5PM, Saturday & Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend in Downtown Hendersonville 828-233-3216

GardenJubilee.org

A springtime tradition since 1994, Hendersonville’s Garden Jubilee features approximately 150 vendors set up along eight blocks of Main Street and a speaker series at the Welcome Center Stage.

Local and regional nurseries sell thousands of plants including annuals, perennials, vegetable and fruit plants, herbs and unusual varieties. Other offerings include garden-themed art, lawn furniture, jewelry, garden tools, planters, wind chimes and birdhouses.

SUMMER

Summertime sizzles downtown with free, live musical performances at the Rhythm & Brews and Music on Main concerts. Henderson County’s mountain musical roots are celebrated as they have been for

more than a century at the Street Dances with bluegrass music, square dancing and clogging. Independence Day typically is commemorated with a Fourth of July event featuring music and fireworks.

Farmers markets throughout the county are active many months of the year offering lots of fresh, farm-to-table fruits, vegetables, meat products, honeys and more, including local handmade arts and crafts. For more about local Farmers Markets, turn to page 58.

U-pick and other farms around Henderson County welcome guests to come by and connect with local farm life. People enjoy a lively and varied food scene in Hendersonville and throughout the county, including al fresco dining at many restaurants, coffeehouses and other eateries. A plethora of craft breweries, cideries, wine tasting rooms and vineyards provide sociable spots for relaxing, quenching a thirst, grabbing goodies from area food trucks and listening to live music.

Parks, playgrounds and ball fields throughout Henderson County are popular year-round with people enjoying fresh air and sports with family and friends. Learn more about local parks on page 70. Local

dog parks cater to fun with fourlegged friends.

Outdoor enthusiasts get back to nature throughout the year at nearby parks, greenways and forests with hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing and other recreational activities. For more about fun in the great outdoors, turn to page 66. Summer camps –many of which have storied histories spanning decades – provide outdoor experiences that make memories lasting a lifetime.

SUMMER CELEBRATIONS

RHYTHM & BREWS CONCERT SERIES

South Main Street, between Allen and Caswell

June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19 and October 17 from 5:30–9:30PM 828-233-3205

DowntownHendersonville.org

The Rhythm & Brews concert series features an eclectic mix of local and regional Americana, R&B, funk, bluegrass and Southern rock. Local food vendors, a kids’ play station, a nonprofit vendor space, and local beer, wine and cider vendors also are featured.

continued on page 8

An aerial view of Hendersonville’s early beginnings from Toms Hill. Photo Credit: Baker-Barber Collection; Community Foundation of Henderson County; Henderson County Public Library

SATURDAY STREET DANCES

Visitor Center, 201 S Main Street, Hendersonville

June-Aug, Visit Website for Exact Dates

828-693-9708

VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/Summer-Concerts

The Street Dances started in 1918 to welcome home World War I soldiers and have continued to be part of summer in Hendersonville for more than a century. The Street Dances, held on Saturdays, feature a live bluegrass band playing traditional music while a square dance caller prompts dance figures for participants to follow. Those who don’t know how to square dance can come at 6:30PM for basic lessons. Clogging teams perform twice during the evening with stomping routines. Bring a chair. No alcoholic beverages, coolers or backpacks allowed. The seating area opens after 5:30PM and prior admission is prohibited. In case of inclement weather, the concert

will be postponed until 8PM. If the weather does not cooperate by then, the performance will be canceled.

MUSIC ON MAIN STREET

Visitor Center, 201 S Main Street, Hendersonville

June-Aug, Visit Website for Exact Dates 828-693-8504

VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/Summer-Concerts

Music On Main Street is like one big block party on Fridays throughout the summer in downtown Hendersonville. The concert series features a diverse line-up of live bands playing a range of music including pop, oldies, rock and contemporary music. Music On Main Street may not be held the week of July 4 due to other downtown celebrations and events. No alcoholic beverages, coolers or backpacks are permitted. Bring a chair. The seating area opens after 5:30PM and prior admission is prohibited. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be postponed until 8PM. If the

weather does not cooperate by then, the performance will be canceled.

JULY 4TH CELEBRATION CONCERT & FIREWORKS

Main Street between 2nd Ave and Caswell Street

July 4, Visit Website for Details 828-697-4884

VisitHendersonvillenc.gov/Recreation

Henderson County Parks and Recreation and the Arts Council team up to offer this family-friendly July 4th Celebration which includes kids games and activities, food trucks, two stages featuring live music and an annual fireworks display. No alcoholic beverages, coolers or backpacks are permitted. Bring a chair. In case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled.

continued on page 10

MEDICAL SKINCARE

SCARLET RADIO FREQUENCY

MICRONEEDLING

BOTOX + DYSPORT

FILLER INJECTIONS

MICRONEEDLING

KYBELLA CHIN FAT REDUCTION

HYRAFACIAL MD

FACIAL SERVICES / DERMAPLANING

MEDICAL PEELS

LASER SKINCARE

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

SKIN TIGHTENING

SUN SPOTS AND BROWN SPOTS

SPIDER VEIN THERAPY

COOLPEEL GENTLE CO2

DEKA CO2

SUBNOVI PLASMA PEN

WELLNESS

VITAMIN SHOTS AND IV INFUSIONS

HORMONE OPTIMIZATION

FALL

As summer turns to fall, the trees explode with autumn color, making scenic, leaf-looking drives around Henderson County a must. The North Carolina Apple Festival in Hendersonville and the North Carolina Mountain State Fair in Fletcher around Labor Day mark a festive beginning to fall.

The cool, crisp weather draws people to area apple orchards and other farms for local produce, hayrides, cider, doughnuts and other treats. In early October, Farm City Day in Jackson Park provides family fun with a focus on local agricultural traditions. At Halloween, families with their costumed trick-ortreaters often can be seen frolicking downtown.

FALL CELEBRATIONS

NORTH CAROLINA APPLE FESTIVAL

Main Street, Downtown Hendersonville

Labor Day Weekend

828-697-4557

NCAppleFestival.org

The North Carolina Apple Festival celebrates the history and importance of the apple industry in Henderson County which is first in the state and seventh nationwide in apple production. Fourteen local apple growers participate in the Apple Festival each year which also features apple stands, food vendors, arts, crafts and games. Entertainment ranges from apple recipe contests to musical acts on the stage at the historic courthouse. Pets are not allowed at the festival.

NORTH CAROLINA

MOUNTAIN STATE FAIR

Western North Carolina Agricultural Center

Beginning the First Friday after Labor Day 828-687-1414

WNCAgCenter.org/P/MountainStateFair

The annual North Carolina Mountain State Fair celebrates the people, agriculture, art and tradition of the region through exhibits, contests, music, amusement rides and other entertainment.

FARM CITY DAY

Jackson Park

10AM-4PM, First Saturday in October 828-697-4891

Henderson.CES.NCSU.edu

Begun in 1955 by Henderson County Cooperative Extension and Kiwanis International, Farm City Day takes place on about 50 acres of Jackson Park in Hendersonville and features urban, rural and educational displays, antique and modern farm equipment and crafters from many generations. The event focuses on agricultural awareness, teaching children and adults where their food comes from and who produces it. A special youth area features hands-on activities including a farm animal petting zoo, old-timey demonstrations, a fishing pond and other children’s games and activities. Entertainment includes local bands performing throughout the day. Food trucks also are available. Farm City Day is free. However, there are cash fees for some of the activities, as well as for vendors selling food and more.

TREAT STREET CARNIVAL

Main Street, Downtown Hendersonville 5-9PM, Oct 31

828-233-3205

DowntownHendersonville.org

continued on page 12

Hendersonville’s Main Street hosts many festivals and events throughout the year.

Farm City Day is held in Jackson Park annually.

Treats and fun abound along Main Street in downtown Hendersonville at the Treat Street Carnival, including trick or treating with merchants, Dia de los Muertos celebrations, a costume contest, inflatables and spooky fun.

WINTER

When the chill of winter arrives, downtown Hendersonville puts out a warm “home for the holidays” welcome. Businesses are adorned with decorations, Christmas lights brighten the streets and a host of special events like caroling and evening shopping with refreshments and historic inn tours are offered. People visit the local holiday markets and area farms for fresh Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands and other greenery.

Henderson County’s winter weather is typically not extreme, making it ideal for continuing to enjoy fun outside. Skiing, snowboarding and tubing sites around the region add

to the wintertime options for fun.

WINTER CELEBRATION

HOLIDAY STREET LIGHTING AND SANTA’S ARRIVAL

Historic Courthouse Plaza, Downtown Hendersonville

EAGLE SELF STORAGE

Controlled, Standard, Enclosed RV/Jumbo Storage

• Temperature & Humidity Controlled

• Keypad Access

• Fenced and Lighted

• State-of-the-Art Security System

• Friendly On-site Staff

• Wide Aisles

• Drive-up Access

Friday after Thanksgiving, 5-8PM 828-233-3205

DowntownHendersonville.org

Downtown’s Holiday Street Lighting kicks off the season with Christmas choirs and a band, hot drinks and delicious treats, shopping and a countdown as Santa arrives to light up Main Street. The evening includes free visits with Santa and carriage rides at the Historic Courthouse.

OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS

Downtown Hendersonville First Friday in December 828-233-3205

DowntownHendersonville.org

Create your magical Christmas moments with shops open late, Victorian carolers, carriage rides and more on Main Street.

HOLLY JOLLY TRAIN RIDES

Downtown Hendersonville December 21, 2024 828-233-3205

DowntownHendersonville.org

Hop on the Mountain Fresh Orchards train at the Historic Courthouse for another magical Main Street experience!

The City of Hendersonville hosts an annual Turkey Trot 5K in Downtown every year.

Facts, Figures & Government Resources

Here are some helpful facts, figures and government resources for Henderson County and its communities and some general information about the region.

HENDERSON COUNTY

828-697-4809 | HendersonCountyNC.gov

• Covers an approximately 380square-mile area

• Incorporated in 1838

• Encompasses five incorporated areas: the City of Hendersonville, the Village of Flat Rock, the Town of Fletcher, the Town of Laurel Park and the Town of Mills River. A portion of the City of Saluda also is in Henderson County.

• Governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners with a chairperson elected by the commissioners

• Employs a full-time county manager

• Ad valorem property tax is levied at rate of $0.5610 on each $100 of assessed valuation of taxable property, based on a listing date of Jan. 1, 2020.

• 12 county fire and rescue departments that are combination departments (paid/volunteer).

• Sheriff’s Office augmented by nearly 80 volunteers. Special department programs include home and personal safety presentations by District Captains, a citizens’ academy designed to educate the public about county law enforcement operations and a Community Notification System residents can sign up for to receive real-time alerts for localized emergency situations and relevant community advisories.

HENDERSONVILLE

828-697-3000 | HendersonvilleNC.gov

• Chartered in 1847

• Governed by a council/manager form of government

• General city tax of 49 cents per $100 of assessed valuation which pays for such services as streets, parks and fire and police protection

• Special downtown tax district with an additional 21 cents per $100 for the Main Street and 7th Avenue tax districts. These special taxes cover maintenance, beautification and event programs within those municipal service districts.

• The Hendersonville Fire Department operates consists of 51 full-time employees across three divisions: Emergency Operations, Administration and Life Safety. Members are NFPA-certified firefighters and emergency medical technicians broken into three engine companies and a ladder company with two reserve engines. In addition to putting out fires, members conduct inspections, provide emergency medical services, conduct fire investigations and provide life safety services and education. In 2023 the department was awarded a Public Protection Class 1 Rating which places them in the top 1% of fire departments nationwide. HFD aims to provide excellent customer service by minimizing risk to life, property, and the environment while creating a strong bond with continued on page 16

North

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the community through public education and prevention.

• The Hendersonville Police Department operates within the city limits and includes a Patrol Services Division, a Criminal Investigation Division and a Support Services Division.

Sixty-four full time employees offer services such as patrol, 911 telecommunications, traffic safety team, school resource officers and more. The mission of the Hendersonville Police Department is to serve with excellence and be a leader in 21st century policing.

• The Water & Sewer Department provides water service to more than 32,000 homes and businesses and sewer service to more than 10,000 homes and businesses. The Department also operates and maintains over 653 miles of water mains, 60 water pumping stations, 32 water storage tanks, over 200 miles of sewer mains and 31 sewer pumping stations. Hendersonville

Water & Sewer is proud to supply high-quality, affordable drinking water to the community.

• The City of Hendersonville is committed to providing quality, efficient services to all citizens, visitors and businesses through open communication, timely responses and quality results.

FLAT ROCK

828-697-8100 | VillageofFlatRock.org

• Incorporated in 1995

• Governed by a mayor/council form of government

• More than 100 volunteers assist in the operation of the village

• Ad valorem tax rate of 11.9 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

• Receives services from the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, City of Hendersonville Water & Sewer Department and Henderson County

continued on page 18

The North Carolina Apple Festival has been held annually for over 70 years, with the King Apple Parade being a key event. Photo Credit: Baker-Barber Collection; Community Foundation of Henderson County; Henderson County Public Library

Source: National Centers for Environmental Information, averages for 1991-2020.

See The Future Now at Carolina Ophthalmology

Compassionate Doctors With World-Class Technology

For over 40 years, the highly skilled and compassionate surgeons of Carolina Ophthalmology have been dedicated to providing state-of-the-art eye care via the latest technologies to patients throughout the Western North Carolina community.

Today, these physicians continue to offer revolutionary advanced treatments such as:

• Laser Cataract Surgery with Premium Intraocular Lenses – The only practice in the area that performs this bladeless, more precise cataract removal surgery using the newest advanced lenses that may help reduce dependency on glasses.

• Light Adjustable Lens™ – The only adjustable IOL available that allows for superior vision optimization after lens implantation and healing via a series of light treatment procedures. Patients can adjust their vision based on needs and lifestyle.

• The ORA System™ – Exclusively available at Carolina Ophthalmology, this technology makes lens selection possible during cataract surgery, resulting in more reliable post-operative vision.

• iStent – The smallest implantable medical device in the world, it removes fluid and relieves eye pressure caused by glaucoma.

Hendersonville • 828-693-1773

Asheville • 828-277-8233

Skyland • 828-820-2900

Columbus • 828-894-3037

Spruce Pine • 800-624-6575

Franklin • 800-624-6575

Clayton H. Bryan, MD

Mark A. Joseph, MD

Robert I. Park, MD

Jonathan P. Fritz, MD

Raj N. Patel, MD

Pooja Sethi, MD

Matthew J. Duggan, MD

Stephen J. Capps, MD

Farid M. Khan, MD

• Receives fire protection and emergency services from Blue Ridge Fire & Rescue, Valley Hill Fire & Rescue and Green River Fire & Rescue

FLETCHER

828-687-3985 | FletcherNC.org

• Incorporated in 1989

• Governed by a council/manager form of government

• Tax rate of 28 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

• Provides its own police protection, sanitation service, planning and zoning services, parks and recreation and street maintenance

• Contracts fire protection through Fletcher Fire & Rescue Department and Mills River Fire & Rescue with a paid staff on duty 24 hours a day

LAUREL PARK

828-693-4840 | LaurelPark.org

• Incorporated in 1925

• Governed by a council/manager form of government

• Tax rate of 39.5 cents per $100 of assessed valuation

• Town of Laurel Park Police Department, in addition to protecting the community, offers residential security checks, on-site security surveys and assistance in doing household inventories

• Contracts fire protection through Valley Hill Fire & Rescue

• Contracts solid waste management through Waste Pro

• Public Works Department maintains streets and right-ofways, parks and greenways, and public facilities. The Town’s water system is owned and operated by the City of Hendersonville.

MILLS RIVER

828-890-2901 | MillsRiver.org

• Incorporated in 2003

• Governed by a council/manager

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Most business with the Social Security Administration can be addressed through SSA.gov. Social Security does have a field office at 205 S Grove Street in Hendersonville. Call 866-964-5053 or for TTY call 800-325-0778.

VETERANS RESOURCES

Through the NC Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs, Veterans Services offices have been established throughout the state – including in Henderson County – for veterans and their families to receive assistance with benefits, claims questions and other issues.

The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville provides healthcare and wellness services to US military veterans and their families. In addition to serving veterans’ overall health, the VA Medical Center offers assistance related to geriatrics and extended care including adult day health care, home-based primary care, long-term care and respite care.

N.C. Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs

Toll-free 844-624-8387 | MilVets.NC.gov

Henderson County Veterans Services Office

828-697-4817 | HendersonCountyNC.gov/County/Page/Veterans-Services

Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville

828-298-7911 | Asheville.VA.gov

Veterans Crisis Line

For free confidential support for veterans in crisis and their families and friends is provided. Dial 988 (and then press 1), text 838255 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net for virtual chat and other resources.

form of government

• Tax rate of 17 cents per $100 of assessed valuation with 10 cents going to Mills River Fire & Rescue

• Fifteen staff – town manager, finance director/town clerk, deputy town clerk/administrative assistant, tax collector, planning director, planning technician, recreation programmer, park director, two park maintenance technicians, one full-time park

maintenance crew leader and three part-time park rangers

• Contracts law enforcement with the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office and fire protection with Mills River Fire & Rescue

• Fire inspections managed through the Henderson County Fire Marshal’s office

SALES & USE TAX

Laurel Park Town Hall is located across the street from Laurel Green Park.

RECYCLING AND WASTE DISPOSAL

Curbside pick-up of recycling and garbage is available to residents in Hendersonville, as well as in the Henderson County towns of Fletcher and Laurel Park.

All residents of the county can take recyclables and an equal amount or less of household garbage for the “Bag for Bag” program to the Henderson County Convenience Center at 265 Convenience Center Drive in Hendersonville. Nonrecyclable garbage can be taken to the Transfer Station at 191 Transfer Station Drive in Hendersonville. Private waste removal companies are also available for hire for recycling and garbage disposal.

HendersonCountyoffers“single stream” recycling, meaning that a variety of recyclable items may be combined for recycling curbside and at the Convenience Center.

At the Convenience Center, residents can combine aluminum and steel cans, certain plastic food and beverage containers including bottles, tubs, jugs, and jars, gable top/carton containers, flattened cardboard and mixed paper. Glass jars and bottles are recycled separately at the Convenience Center but can be combined with other recyclables for curbside pickup. Recyclable items should be emptied and rinsed before recycling.

Antifreeze, food waste, batteries, peripheral

electronics like small office equipment, used motor oil, scrap metal and appliances are some of the other items that the Convenience Center accepts. Household hazardous waste, liquid paint, and foam including food service packaging and rigid packing foam are accepted on certain days throughout the year.

Bulky items like mattresses, carpet, large plastic toys, construction debris and yard waste may be taken to the Transfer Station for a fee at 191 Transfer Station Drive in Hendersonville. TVs and computer monitors also may be taken to the Transfer Station for a $20 recycling fee.

Plastic bags and plastic film can be recycled at many local retail stores but should not be added to your single stream recycling.

Call the Environmental Programs at 828-694-6524 or the Transfer Station at 828-697-4505 with questions regarding proper disposal or visit HCRecycles.org for the Recyclopedia look-up system and more information including how to dispose of other items.

City of Hendersonville residents can visit HendersonvilleNC. gov/Public-Works/GarbageCollection or call 828-697-3084 for more information about recycling and solid waste disposal services offered by the Hendersonville Public Works Department.

All tax rates reported are for the year 2022. Rates are subject to change every year in June for the next year.

• Sales tax is 6.75% (4.75% levied by the state and 2% levied by the county) on purchased tangible commodities, room and cottage rentals, laundry and dry cleaning services. The sales tax does not apply to prescription medicines, insulin, false teeth, eyeglasses, gasoline, coin-operated laundries and motor vehicles. On most grocery/food items, the sales tax is 2%.

• NC Dept. of Motor Vehicles collects a highway use tax of 3% on the sale of vehicles; boats are taxable at 3% with a maximum of $1,500.

• The sale of an aircraft and all accessories attached when delivered to the purchaser is subject to the 4.75% general NC rate of sales and use tax with a maximum of $2,500. Such sales are not subject to local and transit rates of sales and use tax.

• Fifty percent (50%) of the sales price of each manufactured home or modular home sold at retail, including all accessories attached when delivered to a purchaser, is subject to the general 4.75% NC rate of sales and use tax. Manufactured homes and modular homes are not

Henderson County Board of Elections

subject to the local and transit rates of sales and use tax.

• Certain repair, maintenance and installation services are also subject to sales and use tax. Visit NCDOR.gov for more information.

DRIVER’S LICENSE

North Carolina DMV

125 Baystone Drive, Hendersonville 828-692-6915 | 919-715-7000

NCDOT.gov/DMV/Help/Moving

Within 60 days of moving to North Carolina or moving within the state, individuals must change their addresses with the NC Division of Motor Vehicles and get a new or duplicate license or ID as well as a new or duplicate vehicle registration.

To apply for a North Carolina driver license, new residents must visit an NCDMV driver license office with the following:

• Out-of-state license or one document (with full name) proving identity and date of birth

• Social Security card or other

document proving Social Security number

• One document verifying physical address in North Carolina (two are required if getting an NC REAL ID)

• For individuals not born in the U.S., one document (with full name) proving legal presence/lawful status

• A document proving liability insurance coverage from a provider licensed to do business in North Carolina.

Written and road tests may be waived for individuals with a valid license from another state. Driver license office appointments may be made online at NCDOT.gov/ DMV/License-ID/Driver-LicenseAppointments/Pages.

The DMV also issues NC REAL IDs. Beginning May 7, 2025, federal agencies will enforce the REAL ID Act, which requires a REAL ID, U.S. passport or another federallyapproved identification to board continued on next page

The Historic County Courthouse, originally built in 1904–1905, has been renovated and reopened to the public.

PUBLIC SAFETY HELP FROM THE HENDERSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office App

This interactive, mobile app allows residents to connect with the Sheriff’s Office and receive public safety news and information. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store by searching “Henderson County Sheriff.” The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office also is on NextDoor, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. Residents also can sign up at NIXLE.com to receive public safety alerts. The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office app, however, is the main form of communication that the Sheriff’s Office uses to communicate with the public.

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office Reassurance Program

This free service is for elderly Henderson County residents who live alone. Seniors must call Communications by 10AM each morning to verify their well-being. Call 828-697-4915 to sign up.

Smart911

Citizens can create safety profiles that are visible to telecommunicators during an emergency. Details can include information about medical issues, contact lists, pet information and floor plans. Smart911 is completely private and secure. Visit Smart911.com to register.

Text to 9-1-1

While it is always better to call 9-1-1 if possible, this service allows people to send text messages to emergency services as an alternative to placing a phone call. Significant benefits of this service include accessibility for members of the community who are hard of hearing, deaf or speechimpaired. Text to 9-1-1 can also aid in situations when a crime is in progress, a caller is facing domestic abuse or a caller’s injury is making speech impossible.

Home & Personal Safety

This program provides residents with strategies to better protect themselves, their homes, property and vehicles from crime. The District Captains meet with Home Owners Associations and community groups to present this information and material to educate citizens.

Other programs District Captains have implemented and presented to these groups are “Scams & Frauds” and “Avoid, Deny, Defend.” “Scams and Frauds” provides citizens with information about current trends being used by scammers. “Avoid, Deny, Defend” is a program to assist businesses in setting up Emergency Preparedness Planning for active assailant situations.

Visit SheriffHendersonCounty.com for more about these and other public safety initiatives.

commercial flights and enter secure federal buildings. The NC REAL ID is a REAL ID Act-compliant driver license that is just like a traditional license or ID but has a star at the top. Driver licenses and IDs without a gold star are noted “Not for Federal Identification.” Learn more about getting a REAL ID at the NCDMV by visiting NCDOT.gov/DMV/LicenseID/NC-Real-ID/Pages.

VEHICLE REGISTRATION

North Carolina License Plate Agency

145 Four Seasons Mall, Hendersonville 919-715-7000

NCDOT.gov/DMV/Help/Moving /Pages/ New-Residents.aspx

After obtaining a North Carolina driver license, new residents must also register their vehicles when they accept gainful employment or at the expiration of the time granted by the reciprocity agreement between North Carolina and their prior state of residence (usually 30 days), whichever occurs first. To register, new residents must take the following to a local license plate agency:

• Vehicle title (or if held by a lender, a registration card)

• MVR-1 Title Application

• MVR-180 Odometer Disclosure (if vehicle is less than 10 years old)

• NC driver license or a valid out-ofstate driver license along with a North Carolina Temporary Driving Certificate

• NC vehicle insurance information New residents may register vehicles

Thomas H. Thompson Emergency Services Center

without an inspection but an inspection will be required before the annual registration renewal.

VOTER REGISTRATION

Board of Elections

75 E Central Street, Hendersonville 828-697-4970

HendersonCountyNC.org/Elections

BONDS

To register and be eligible to vote, individuals must be US citizens, 18 years old by the next general election and have been permanent and legal residents of North Carolina and in the precinct they’re registering in for at least 30 days prior to an election. Voter Registration Applications can be requested from the Henderson County Board of Elections Office by mail, phone, e-mail, in person or downloaded from the website. Forms also are available at the library, DMV and other government agencies. Mail the completed form to the Henderson County Board of Elections, PO Box 2090, Hendersonville, NC 28793. Henderson County also offers Early

OTHER LOCAL VOTER RESOURCES

Henderson County Democratic Party 1216 Sixth Ave. W., Ste 600, Hendersonville 828-692-6424 | MyHCDP.com

Henderson County Republican Party 170 Four Seasons Shopping Center, Hendersonville 828-693-6040 | HendersonCountyNCGOP.org

Libertarian Party of North Carolina-Henderson County Affiliate Party Facebook.com/HendersonLP.NC

League of Women Voters of Henderson County LWVHCNC.org

absentee ballot by mail.

The main Hendersonville Post Office at the Blue Ridge Mall at 1800 Four Seasons Blvd. in Hendersonville offers mail and passport services. Post office branches throughout Henderson County include locations in Bat Cave, Dana, East Flat Rock, Edneyville, Etowah, Flat Rock, Fletcher, Gerton, Horse Shoe, Mountain Home, Naples, Saluda and Zirconia. Visit USPS.com for specific operating hours and services.

Historic Downtown Hendersonville & 7th Avenue

Downtown Hendersonville is the heart of an economically and culturally vibrant city. Downtown comprises two districts – Main Street and 7th Avenue – which attract both residents and visitors throughout the year. Whether the tulips are in bloom or autumn leaves are falling, the area bustles with people frequenting the many specialty shops, art galleries, restaurants, coffeehouses, entertainment venues and professional offices.

Both Main Street and the 7th Avenue District are part of Main Street America, a grassroots movement that has been helping to revitalize older and historic commercial districts for more than 35 years. Downtown Hendersonville has been a shining example of the North

continued on page 26

Colorful blooms abound on downtown’s Main Street.

Hendersonville’s Historic Train Depot and 7th Avenue District in the 1920s.

Photo Credit: Baker-Barber Collection; Community Foundation of Henderson County; Henderson County Public Library

Carolina Main Street movement for more than 30 years as an energized commercial, historic district that celebrates its neighborhood feel and preserves its history.

Hendersonville is home to many historic buildings. Of special significance architecturally is the gold-domed Historic Downtown Courthouse at First and Main Streets that now is home to the Henderson County Heritage Museum. 7th Avenue boasts the historic Hendersonville Train Depot with its model railroad that represents Henderson County.

The streets of downtown Hendersonville are often alive with free outdoor festivals and concerts ranging from one of Western North Carolina’s largest garden shows, Garden Jubilee on Memorial Day Weekend, to Labor Day weekend’s North Carolina Apple Festival. They also play host to art, craft, garden and antique shows. Enjoy live music

continued on page 28

Dive Right In!

Team E.C.C.O. offers a unique visit to the ocean in the mountains of NC. Our exhibits feature fresh, land, and saltwater ecosystems which are home to dozens of marine fish and invertebrates, tortoises, axolotls, and lizards. At the Aquarium & Shark Lab, you can make friends with a puffer fish, chat with a horn shark, or get personal with some icky/sticky/spiney stuff!

Have you ever wanted to hold a crested gecko? How about meet a shamefaced crab? Get involved with our new shark tracking display (opens July for JAW-SOME July!) and learn what it takes to tag a shark. FREE Citizen Science activities are offered weekly. Custom ocean-based learning programs are available for private groups Tuesday – Friday. Please link to our website for details on upcoming events, special programs, and hours.

Come visit today! We look forward to seeing you at the sea!

The Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO brings the sea to downtown Hendersonville.

and local craft beverages at the Rhythm & Brews Summer Concert Series on the Third Thursday of each month, and from May through October, the weekly Hendersonville Farmers Market on Maple Street showcases fresh, local foods from area farmers.

Downtown Hendersonville is further distinguished by its engaging public art. Since 2002, Hendersonville has given a nod to the black bears that live in North Carolina with the Bearfootin’ Public Art Walk. The walk exhibits bear statues created by local artists and sponsored by businesses. Each year after being on display on the main promenade from May through October, the bear statues are auctioned to raise money for local nonprofits and the enrichment of downtown programs, including community events, public art and other beautification efforts.

The “Mountain Memory” fountain on Sixth and Main Streets pays homage to the region’s natural heritage by depicting the prominent peaks surrounding Hendersonville and the area’s rivers. A patriotic mural is found along King Street, paying tribute to veterans and their military service. The annual Hendersonville ArtScape Banner Project, a collaborative effort involving local arts organizations and other community partners, showcases about 40 banners displaying the work of talented regional artists. The Good of the Hive Mural on the back side of Hands On! Children’s Museum, which faces the Azalea Parking Lot on Third Avenue East, connects to the Downtown Art Route sidewalk mural project along King Street to Fifth Avenue and Maple Street.

continued on page 30

DOWNTOWN PARKING

The City of Hendersonville offers convenient and affordable parking options allowing access to the downtown shops, restaurants and events we all know and love. Parking options are available in the City’s new parking deck, nearby surface lots and on-street parking. The City offers free on-street parking on Sundays, weekdays after 7PM and on City holidays. The community can use their ParkMobile App for easy payment options. The parking deck walk-up kiosk, surface lot kiosks and onstreet kiosks accept payment via credit card and cash.

Located at the corner of 5th Avenue and King Street, the new four-level, 253-space City of Hendersonville Parking Deck makes it easy and accessible to park and enjoy a full day of Main Street activities. At $1.50 per hour, the parking deck’s rates are less than the $2.00 per hour on-street rate. There is a $10 maximum per parking session, and EV charging stations and accessible spaces are available. For more information, please visit HvlNC.gov/ Parking.

Downtown visitors can pay for parking at one of the labeled kiosks throughout or by using the ParkMobile app.

DOWNTOWN & 7TH AVENUE

BEAR FALLS WINE COMPANY

Bear Falls Wine Company is a small family owned wine and cider bar located on Main Street in Downtown Hendersonville. They offer their own Hand Crafted North Carolina grown wines as well as a variety of wine from other local North Carolina Vineyards. Relax and unwind at this cozy new spot downtown where you can enjoy a glass of wine or cider on tap. Love what you taste? Take a bottle or growler home with you to enjoy with family and friends.

Open Thursday-Sunday

432 N Main Street | Hendersonville 828-393-0945

BearFallsWine.com

HENDERSONVILLE OUTFITTERS

Hendersonville Outfitters is a fly fishing and tackle shop located in downtown Hendersonville that offers guided trips and quality gear for all skill levels. Owners David Bergman and Ambre Mehenni take pride in teaching and having an open approach to the sport. The guides are not just there to put you on fish, but educate you so you have confidence on the water. In addition to fishing related items, they also have local nature based art and are supporters of the local art community. All anglers are encouraged and welcome to see Hendersonville Outfitters as a haven for those who experience the great Outdoors with rods in hand. Located on 3rd Avenue West is a short walk to start your adventure in the great sport of fly fishing.

Tus - Sat 10AM - 6PM Sun 12PM - 4PM 144 3rd ave west | Hendersonville 828-595-3550 Hendersonvilleoutfitters.com

MINI BATCH BAKERY

Owned by Stacy and Chris Fields, Mini Batch Bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods and products from their raspberry farm, Raspberry Fields. In addition to pastries, breads, cakes and pies, they also serve breakfast sandwiches, quiche, yogurt parfaits, hot sandwiches, soups, salads and box lunches. Additionally, custom orders, gift baskets and catering options are available. Stop by and visit them at their 7th Avenue location and at the Hendersonville Farmers Market!

Tuesday - Friday 7AM-4PM Saturday 8AM-2PM 404 7th Avenue E | Hendersonville MiniBatchBakery.com

7TH AVENUE – DOWNTOWN’S CREATIVE EDGE

7th Avenue, part of the grand adventure of Downtown Hendersonville, sets the standard of what a revitalized downtown can be. This is where the Transylvania Railroad connected the city to nearby towns and resorts during the late 1800s. By the early 1900s, the railroad carried produce from Hendersonville’s orchards to Asheville, Spartanburg, and beyond.

Freed African Americans coming from rural settlements found opportunity and employment around the railroad’s depot and other 7th Avenue businesses, and a thriving neighborhood called Brooklyn surrounded the area. Modern neighborhoods and legacy businesses of today stand as reminders of the district’s diverse history.

In an effort to improve infrastructure, walkability and aesthetic appeal to the district,

Discover Hendersonville’s Attractions & Family Fun on page 52, and Cultural Pursuits on page 60.

The City of Hendersonville’s 7th Avenue Streetscape Project has been in the works for several years with completion expected toward the end of 2024. In 2018, the Maple Street improvements completed by the City’s Public Works Department were the initial public investment into the district, creating better sidewalk accessibility and additional parking options for visitors. This led the way to the Hendersonville Farmers Market opening in 2020. Produced by the Friends of Downtown and the City’s Downtown Division, the Farmers Market has brought new attention to the district, with an increase in approximately 44,000 visitors every year.

The revitalized energy of 7th Avenue District defines itself and honors its history by welcoming inspired entrepreneurs who are renovating buildings, farmers who are gathering to sell produce and artists who are transforming once barren spaces into places of whimsy and imagination. Since 2020, there have been more than 11 new restaurant and retail businesses in the district opened by those attracted to an area with beautiful landscaping and outdoor seating options throughout an easily walkable area.

The City of Hendersonville invites you to enjoy a stroll along 7th Avenue, “Downtown’s Creative Edge,” and experience the intricate mosaic of its history, revel in the art in galleries and on the street and explore places where repurposing what is old into something new is part of the area’s rich character.

Bearfootin’ Public Art Walk is a whimsical, playful public art display.

Flat Rock –Little Charleston of the Mountains

For centuries before settlement of the earliest land grants in the area between 1788 and 1799, the “Great Flat Rock” was a gathering place for the Cherokees for trading and socializing among themselves and other tribes. The area was a wilderness with nothing more than foot trails along streams, in gullies and over and around ridges. The first land grant in Flat Rock was to Revolutionary War veteran Abraham Kuykendall in 1792.

In 1793, early land grantee John Earl (a.k.a., Earle) was paid to open a road from upstate South Carolina through the Saluda Gap to Flat Rock

where he had a grist mill on what is now Highland Lake. Later, the 1820 completion of the Buncombe Turnpike over Native American trails and drover roads through Flat Rock and into South Carolina led to trade between the two areas.

In 1827, Charles and Susan Baring of Charleston bought 400 acres and built Mountain Lodge, the first of many summer residences in Flat Rock. The Barings also built a private chapel on their property and in 1836, they deeded their chapel - which became St. John in the Wildernessto what is now the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina. It is the

oldest parish in the diocese and remains active today. Judge Mitchell King of Charleston came to Flat Rock in 1830 and renovated an old “two on two” trace mill house into a residence he named Argyle. This core portion of the house, which was built around 1815, makes Argyle the oldest dwelling in Flat Rock. Argyle also has the distinction of having the longest continuous possession in the same family of any place in Flat Rock and perhaps Western North Carolina. Baring and King continued to buy tracts of land at prices ranging from 25 cents to $1 an acre. Eventually, they acquired much of the Flat Rock area and then sold the tracts to other families from the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Within 20 years, Flat Rock became a colony of summer cottages and estates, thus earning its nickname of The Little Charleston in the Mountains.

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Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and author Carl Sandburg and his wife raised dairy goats at Connemara, a tradition that continues today.

While the Village incorporated in 1995, the Village seal shows that Flat Rock was established in 1807, as that date reflects the first time the name appeared on an official map. Today, the Village of Flat Rock retains the quiet sophistication of its Charleston heritage interwoven with the delightful flavor of the mountains. Many of the original historic homes remain today and have been lovingly restored and preserved.

Historic Flat Rock, Inc. was formed as a nonprofit in 1968 to protect and preserve Historic Flat Rock. As part of Historic Flat Rock Inc., a Heritage Tree Program was organized to help protect Flat Rock’s cultural landscapes and heritage trees. Historic Flat Rock, Inc. is responsible for the Village of Flat Rock being listed in the National Register of Historic Places as the largest

Historic District in North Carolina.

Flat Rock also is home to the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, a property administered by the National Park Service, and the Flat Rock Playhouse, the official State Theatre of North Carolina.

In the heart of Flat Rock is a charming retail and restaurant community along Greenville Highway. Anchored by Flat Rock Square and Little Rainbow Row – a nod to Charleston’s Rainbow Row district of pastel colored historic townhouses – there are a variety of shops, eateries and other businesses. Across from this retail area is Historic Flat Rock’s Forest Preserve and Bird Sanctuary with trails, picnic tables and a kiosk for community notices.

Since the early 1900s, thousands of children have made annual pilgrimages to summer camps in Western North Carolina. The Flat Rock area is home to some of the oldest summer camps including Bonclarken, Kanuga, Camp Pinnacle and Camp Ton-a-Wandah.

Another highlight of the community is The Park at Flat Rock, located within the French Broad watershed on the site of a former golf course. The park, owned and operated by the Village, features open fields, reforestation areas, a variety of flora and fauna and a walking trail that meanders around and through the park’s 66 acres. The Park at Flat Rock also has a welcome center with a community room meeting space, handicapped-accessible restrooms, an open-air pavilion and a playground.

Although growth in such an attractive area is inevitable, the government and villagers of Flat Rock are vigilant about maintaining woods, green spaces and the calm pace of life – keeping Flat Rock just as charming and compelling a place as it has been for centuries.

The Flat Rock Playhouse is North Carolina’s state theatre.

Fletcher –Family-Friendliness Fuels Fast Growth

Close proximity to Hendersonville and Asheville combined with a family-friendly quality of life have fueled the Town of Fletcher’s rise as one of the fastest growing municipalities in Western North Carolina.

Fletcher was incorporated in 1989 but has a history that harkens back to the 1700s. The town is named for Dr. George Fletcher who became the local postmaster in 1886. Many

settlers were drawn to the Fletcher area for limestone mining.

The residents of Fletcher today enjoy a town that is centrally located with quick access to I-26 and the convenience of Asheville Regional Airport nearby.

Easy interstate and airport access also has been conducive to industry in Fletcher. Local manufacturers that have chosen Fletcher for their

The Town of Fletcher operates under a council-manager form of government based at Fletcher Town Hall.

Kate’s & Pete’s Park, located next to the Fletcher Library, features a playground, paved walking trail, small picnic shelter and green open space.

facilities include Blue Ridge Metals, Cane Creek Cycling Components, Putsch and Wilsonart.

Residential growth has been spurred by Fletcher’s mix of housing options that include single-family homes in subdivisions, townhomes, condominiums, small, cottage-style homes and apartments.

Families in Fletcher also have several educational options nearby. In addition to Henderson County Public Schools’ Fletcher Elementary School and Glenn C. Marlow Elementary School, FernLeaf Community Charter School is a public charter school. Veritas Christian Academy is an independent, non-denominational, college preparatory school for prekindergarten through 12th-grade students. Also close by are two Seventh-day Adventist schools –the Captain Gilmer Christian School for students in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade and Fletcher Academy for grades 9 to 12.

The Fletcher Library is popular with residents and has become one of the busiest branches in the Henderson County Public Library system. Library visitors often stop at Kate’s & Pete’s Park, a small park next to the library that has a playground, paved walking trail, small picnic shelter and green open space.

The 75-acre Bill Moore Community Park draws visitors from throughout Western North Carolina. The park includes five baseball/softball fields, three multi-purpose fields, a picnic shelter, a playground, a nine-hole disc golf course, arboretum gardens, walking trails, a dog park and access to Cane Creek.

North Carolina's Premiere Flea Market

Fantastic fireworks are displayed during the annual Fletcher Family Day.

Laurel Park –From Resort Town to Enchanting Residence

The charming cottages and narrow curving roads of present day Laurel Park are gentle reminders of this town’s lively past as a summer resort. A quiet, year-round, mainly residential community today, the Town of Laurel Park remains a captivating tangle of interesting lanes, mature landscaping, thickets of rhododendron and attractive neighborhoods.

From the early- to mid-20th century, Laurel Park was known for its active summer schedule. Rhododendron Lake – the largest of the community’s several lakes, which also was sometimes informally called Laurel Park Lake – had a beach, a waterslide and

a pavilion with the second largest dance floor in the region jutting out over the water.

Beginning in 1903, a special rail line brought summer residents from Hendersonville directly up Fifth Avenue to Laurel Park. The Casino at Rainbow Lake – an entertainment venue including a roller skating rink, dancing arena, playhouse and more – first opened in 1908. In 1910, an incline railway was added to take tourists up the mountain to an observation deck with a spectacular view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The mid-1920s saw a real estate boom that started in Florida and rapidly spread to other resort

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Construction on the Fleetwood Hotel near Jump Off Rock began in 1925 but was halted four years later. It remained unfinished for another six years until it was dismantled in 1935.

The scenic drive up Laurel Park Highway ends at Jump Off Rock with spectacular views of distant peaks.

Expanding Your Living Spaces... Environmentally

At Red Mountain Landscapes we want you to find value in your garden.

From our beautiful hometown of Hendersonville, NC to the scenic golf communities of our mountains and the equestrian hills of Tryon, we’ve been improving outdoor living for over ten gracious years in this area. Red Mountain Landscapes is a comprehensive service provider for all things outdoors.

areas including Henderson County. Commodore J. Perry Stolz, builder of the famous Miami Beach Fleetwood Hotel, bought land atop Laurel Park near the famed Jump Off Rock and began construction on a 15-story Fleetwood Hotel in 1925 – the same year Laurel Park incorporated. The next year, a devastating hurricane hit Florida. Commodore Stolz lost everything. Construction was halted. In 1929, the Great Depression made efforts to complete the hotel hopeless. The unfinished building was sold to salvage in 1935.

As automobile ownership increased, people could vacation where rail lines did not go. Laurel Park began its transition from an active summer resort to a tranquil residential community. Although the beaches, the big lakes and the pavilion remained active through the 1970s, they too slowly disappeared.

Today, the site of the old Rhododendron Lake is now Rhododendron Lake Nature Park, another lovely natural amenity of Laurel Park. Still lush and beautiful, Laurel Park is a town rich in history that continues to attract new residents who discover its unique charm.

THE LEGEND OF JUMP OFF ROCK

One of the most famous and frequently visited sites in Laurel Park is Jump Off Rock which features hiking trails and striking mountain views. The rock’s name comes from a legend that’s hundreds of years old. As the tale goes, a young Cherokee woman and Cherokee chieftain often met at this ledge. When tribal wars called him away, they promised to meet at the rock upon his return. Every evening, the woman climbed to the rock to watch for the chieftain. She often sent out plaintive notes of a Native American love call but no answers came back. Returning warriors brought the news of the young chief’s death in battle. In the twilight, she climbed again to the edge of the rock. The haunting notes of her love call hushed forever, lore has it that on some moonlit nights, the ghost of the heartbroken maiden can be seen on Jump Off Rock.

Jump Off Rock offers hiking and views.

Operated by the Town of Laurel Park, Laurel Green Park features a flat walking loop, a gazebo and a playground.

Mills River – Rural Roots in a Blossoming Community

Mills River is both the oldest community in Henderson County and its youngest municipality. Settled hundreds of years ago and named for a tributary of the French Broad River, Mills River has a rich history, much of which is rooted in farming and agriculture that continues today.

Since its incorporation in 2003, lower density housing development policies in the 22+ square mile town

have helped Mills River retain its rural feel. Not far from Hendersonville, Asheville and Brevard, the town is amidst the mountains and has lots of farmland.

The 50-acre Mills River Park includes multi-use trails, a dog park, a playground, a picnic shelter, a basketball court, and tennis and pickleball courts. At the back of the park there is a canoe and kayak launch and a handicapped accessible

fishing pier on the Mills River.

The Town of Mills River is in the early design and planning stages of the Mills River Valley Trail, a multi-use recreational path along NC 280 that will tie into a similar path planned for Hwy 191. The Town also recently completed a river bank restoration project to shore up eroding river banks along the Mills River and within Mills River Park, and purchased an additional 70 adjacent acres and is currently working on a Master Plan for development of additional park space.

Within the park, the Town Hall is home to government offices as well as the Mills River Library, a branch of the Henderson County Public Library that opened in 2005. In the past few years, solar panels have been added to all Town buildings. Solar panels on the Mills River Park’s Maintenance Building power electric

Families can enjoy outdoor concerts at Bold Rock Hard Cider.

Mills River is a popular destination for trout fishing.

vehicle charging stations which are free of charge to park patrons.

Glenn C. Marlow Elementary School and Mills River Elementary are both in Mills River and are top-rated in Henderson County and the region.

The town has seen increased economic development in the last several years, including in the craft beverages sector. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company chose the town as the site of its East Coast operation and began brewing and distributing from its facility in 2014. The following year, Bold Rock Hard Cider selected Mills River as the site for its third facility and began producing ciders there that same

year. The town is now home to three breweries and one cidery as well as several manufacturing companies that add a significant tax base.

With its opening in 2018, GF Linamar is the largest economic development project in the last 50 years in Henderson County and the most recent large-scale economic development in Mills River. Mills River is also home to other manufacturers, including medical technology company Raumedic and pressure-sensitive label maker UPM Raflatac in the Broadpointe Industrial Park.

Mills River’s agricultural heritage continues, too, with commercial farmers and agribusiness

companies like Flavor 1st Growers and Packers, plant grafting specialists Tri-Hishtil and the Van Wingerden Greenhouse Co. The Town of Mills River created a Land Preservation Program to protect and conserve farmland and open space. Residents working with a conservation agency may apply for grants to assist with legal fees associated with preserving their property.

Mills River Park offers opportunities for enjoying summertime baseball games.

Dogs can play off the leash at the Mills River Park’s dog park.

The 50-acre Mills River Park is a centerpiece of the town.

Construction Specialties & Design Builders, Inc.

Construction Specialties & Design Builders, Inc.

Construction Specialties & Design Builders, Inc.

Building Homes Not Houses in WNC Since 1983

Building Homes Not Houses in WNC Since 1983

828 890 3507 CSDB.builders

828 890 3507 CSDB.builders

Building Homes Not Houses in WNC Since 1983

828 890 3507 CSDB.builders

Get on the Ale Trail

Hendersonville’s rich agriculture provides the perfect setting for local craft beers, wines, ciders and even mead to flourish, providing visitors and residents with many great drinks to enjoy.

Western North Carolina has made a name for itself as a craft brewery haven, with Henderson County being no exception. With flavorful porters and stouts, distinctive sours, amber ales, crisp Kölsch, and a wide range of IPAs, local breweries also enjoy drawing upon the flavors of local farms. Beyond brewing excellent beer, the craft beverage community provides hundreds of jobs and has become an integral part of the local economy.

When the “Pop the Cap” legislation was passed in North Carolina in 2005, brewers were enabled to create beers with 15 percent alcohol by volume, compared to the 6 percent previously allowed. This was a key factor in allowing for a larger variety of beer types crafted and sold, propelling greater development of the regional brewing

industry. Additional provisions later passed, prompting the allowance of onsite brewery beverage sales, and counties also began offering economic development incentives to attract new breweries.

Southern Appalachian Brewery opened as Hendersonville’s first craft brewery in 2011. In 2014, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. opened its east coast brewing, bottling and distribution operation in Mills River, which benefited the Henderson County economy. Over last few the years, craft breweries have continued to be welcomed and open their doors throughout the county. Additionally, craft beers from many local breweries are featured on tap at many restaurants around Hendersonville and offered at local bottle shops.

CIDERIES

Cideries also continue to flourish, utilizing apples grown in Henderson County. As North Carolina is the 7th largest apple-producing state in the nation and Henderson County is the largest apple-producing county in North Carolina, all three Henderson County cideries source apples locally to craft a range of ciders, including seasonal varieties.

WINERIES

A tasting tour of Henderson County isn’t limited to beer and cider. The climate and soil of the Blue Ridge Mountains create fertile ground for the growing list of local wineries. The Crest of the Blue Ridge wine region in Henderson County was named

continued on page 48

Oklawaha Brewing is located in downtown Hendersonville.

ALE TRAIL QUICK REFERENCE

BOLD ROCK HARD CIDER

72 School House Road | Mills River 828-595-9940 | BoldRock.com

Hours: Check website for taproom hours.

Signature Cider Carolina Apple

Seasonal Favorite Blackberry Cider

BURNING BLUSH BREWERY

4891 Boylston Highway | Mills River 828-595-9859 | BurningBlush.com

Hours: Mon-Sat 12PM-9PM, Sun 12PM-8PM

Signature Brew Square Your Luck

DRY FALLS BREWING CO.

425 Kanuga Road | Hendersonville 828.696.0660 | DryFallsBrewing.com

Hours: Mon-Thu 3PM-10PM, Fri-Sat 12PM-12AM, Sun 12PM-9PM

Signature Brew HVL IPA

Seasonal Favorite Blood Orange IPA

GUIDON BREWING CO.

Signature Brew German Pilsner 415 8th Avenue E | Hendersonville 828-595-7976

Hours: Tue-Thu 4PM-9PM, Fri-Sat 12PM-10PM, Sun 12PM-8PM

Seasonal Favorite Schwarzbier

OKLAWAHA BREWING COMPANY

Signature Brew Hop Pig IPA 147 1st Avenue E | Hendersonville 828-595-9956 | @OklawahaBrewing

Hours: Mon-Thu 12PM-10PM, Fri-Sat 12PM-12AM, Sun 12PM-9PM

Seasonal Favorite Lookin’ Good Lime Lager

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING COMPANY

100 Sierra Nevada Way | Mills River 828-708-6242 | SierraNevada.com

Hours: Sun-Thu 11AM-9PM, Fri-Sat 11AM-10PM

Seasonal Favorite Sentence Enhancer Signature Brew Hazy Little Thing Pale IPA Hop Infused Sparkling Water Hop Splash

an AVA (American Viticultural Area), one of the only four in North Carolina and the first in WNC. With eight wineries across urban settings to countryside experiences, wine lovers have a variety of options to taste and take home.

FEATURED BREWERIES & CIDERIES

BOLD ROCK HARD CIDER

Opening its Mills River Cidery in 2014, Bold Rock Hard Cider is crushed and crafted in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains using locally sourced Henderson County apples. Visitors can learn about the process behind the awardwinning cider, take a complimentary weekend tour and enjoy expansive views of the production floor and bottling line.

BURNING BLUSH BREWERY

Family-owned and independently operated, Burning Blush Brewery opened in Mills River in late 2019. In addition to a large outdoor beer garden, the unique brewery pays homage to the Victorian era and hopes that its gothic romantic atmosphere will encourage conversations and relationships to flourish while their traditional, yet experimental, beers are enjoyed.

DRY FALLS BREWING CO.

What started out as a dream between father and son came to fruition when Dry Falls Brewing Co. opened the doors of its rebuilt Kanuga Road body shop in 2016. From a brewery in the owner’s garage to now having over 20 brews available for the public to enjoy, Dry Falls Brewing Co. is proud to be a part of the Hendersonville community and to share their passion for craft beer.

THIRSTY FOR MORE?

The Asheville Ale Trail is a printed field guide for discovering the best breweries, cideries, and wineries in Western

GUIDON BREWING CO.

Guidon Brewing is a Veteran, American, German family-owned and operated brewery dedicated to the art of brewing high-quality, carefully crafted beer. They are committed to providing their customers with highquality beverages in an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere marked by a feeling of friendliness and relaxation.

OKLAWAHA BREWING COMPANY

Formerly known as Sanctuary Brewing Co., Oklawaha Brewing is a nano brewery and taproom committed to brewing high-quality beer while maintaining a strong sense of community and environmental responsibility. Oklawaha strives to be an active community resource alongside offering great tasting beer and providing entertainment through its live music, trivia nights, and other events.

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO

Founded in 1980 in Chico, California, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co broke ground on its second production location in Mills River in 2012. One of America’s premier craft breweries, and recognized for its use of quality ingredients, the Mills River taproom provides guests a space to relax with family and friends, the opportunity to tour the facility, an excellent restaurant, and, of course, the craft beverages they have become famous for.

LOCAL DINING

A DAY IN THE COUNTRY

At A Day in the Country indulge in fantastic food and unique gifts. Enjoy breakfast and lunch at Cafe on the Veranda! Try pearl sugar Belgian waffle, flavorful scramble wraps, and breakfast charcuterie board for two. For lunch, savor Sugarloaf Chicken Salad with Sunshine Slaw, and fantastic desserts paired with exclusive Burntshirt Vineyards Wine. No meal is complete without shopping. Explore women’s apparel, accessories, gardening, home decor, kitchenware, and more! There’s something for everyone! Whether it’s a hearty meal or some retail therapy, A Day in the Country has it all! Come experience all they have to offer today!

Closed Sunday

130 Sugarloaf Road | Hendersonville 828-692-7914 aditc.com

EGGS UP GRILL

Enjoy Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch 7 days a week at Eggs Up Grill and experience a sense of the Hendersonville community. Everyone who walks in the door is warmly welcomed and greeted with a smile! The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, savory bacon, hand-cracked farm-fresh eggs and juicy burgers on the griddle stir up your appetite while the warm hospitality and friendly service makes you feel right at home! They have everything to make you smile: from classic American breakfast, French toast, Eggs Benedict and carne asada burritos to burgers, sandwiches & salads, with vegetarian & gluten-friendly options, as well. Locally owned & operated by Daniel Fort, Eggs Up Grill is sure to serve up a smile and make you feel part of the neighborhood!

Open Everyday 6AM - 2PM 637 Spartanburg Highway | Hendersonville 828-560-EGGS (3447) EggsUpGrill.com/Hendersonville/

MOUNTAIN DELI

Mountain Deli is committed to serving the most delicious, best quality sandwiches they can provide. The entire menu features only fresh, natural ingredients from the best farmers and producers, and is available for dinein, take-out, delivery or lunch on the patio. There are absolutely no artificial ingredients, additives or chemicals. They emphasize domestic and especially locally grown, seasonally fresh ingredients. Most items are made from scratch in the Deli; meats are minimally processed or cooked from raw; soups, salads & sauces are made daily. All sandwiches are custom made to order for the freshest possible experience. It just tastes better! Visit the website for the full menu and catering information.

343 N Main Street | Hendersonville 828-696-0093

MtnDeli.com

LOCAL DINING

SALTY LANDING

They offer fresh seafood brought in six days a week, prepared to your liking—grilled, steamed, blackened, or fried. Customers can enjoy seating at their Oyster Bar, selecting live oysters and witnessing the shucking process. The menu caters to land lovers with signature hand-pattied hamburgers, hand-cut ribeye, fresh chicken tenders, and more. Patrons are encouraged to explore their Market Board featuring market prices for items such as raw in the half shell, steamed, and chargrilled oysters, peel & eat shrimp, mussels, scallops, and the fresh catch of the day. Additionally, a full bar with 18 taps is available, featuring craft beer from local breweries.

Wed - Sun 11AM-10PM 6577 Brevard Road | Etowah 828-595-9925 or 828-595-9926 thesaltylanding.com

SURF N BREW

Their 24 craft beers and ciders are carefully chosen from local breweries, offering seasonal and year-round options. The seafood is 100% domestic and wild-caught, arriving fresh from the coast, including the daily Fresh Catch straight from the boat. They emphasize sustainable fishing for future generations and transparency and reliability on where all of the food comes from. They meticulously source fresh seafood and ingredients for daily dishes and sauces, with recipes passed down through generations. From Louisiana Po-Boys to Mississippi Hushpuppies, their menu reflects decades of family tradition. Their menu promises coastal flavors at family-friendly prices, with a dedication to exceptional service in a lively atmosphere. Their passion for quality means only the freshest ingredients make it to your table.

Wed - Sun 11AM-10PM 1235 St John Rd | Suite 10 | Fletcher 828-376-3705 surfnbrew.com

WEST FIRST WOOD FIRED

West First Wood Fired creates handcrafted food with a Mediterranean aesthetic and features whole-wheat thin crust pizzas, organic pastas, rustic salads, soups, desserts and breads. They also offer gluten free pizzas and entrees. Enjoy a sophisticated, dynamic dining experience while watching your food freshly prepared in our open kitchen or dine alfresco on the deck. The full service bar offers martinis, local brews and eclectic wines. We welcome you to join us for lunch or dinner.

Serving Lunch and Dinner Mon-Sat 101a 1st Avenue W Hendersonville 828-693-1080 WestFirstWoodFired.com

Attractions & Family Fun

Henderson County offers attractions for all ages and a variety of interests and a good place to start exploring them is the Visitor Center.

WELCOME CENTER

Henderson County Tourism Development Authority

201 S Main Street, Hendersonville

828-693-9708

VisitHendersonvilleNC.org

The Welcome Center helps people discover all that Henderson County has to offer including outdoor recreation, craft beverages, boutique shopping, agritourism, accommodations, restaurants, family activities, attractions, events and more. Stop by for maps, brochures, a complimentary Visitor Guide and to learn more about the area. The Welcome Center also offers parking for cars and buses and public restrooms and is the home to the Henderson County Tourism office. In 2023-2024, come see us in our temporary Welcome Center, located at the same address, while

the permanent building is being remodeled.

AQUARIUM & SHARK LAB

BY TeamECCO

511 N Main Street, Hendersonville

1-4PM Wed-Fri, 12:30-4PM Sat

$5.25 for ages 1-4

$7.50 for ages 5-65

$6.50 for ages 66 and older

Special pricing for military/firefighters/EMT personnel/current teachers. Please inquire at check-in.

828-692-8386

TeamECCO.org

The Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team E.C.C.O. brings the ocean to the mountain. Knowledgeable student interns and guides who share a passion for conservation engage with visitors, showcasing habitats that house dozens of marine fish and invertebrates, reptiles and invasive

species. The Aquarium & Shark Lab’s immersive presentations include raising baby sharks, behavioral training and animal imprinting and research projects with facilities throughout the aquarium world. The main exhibit is a 2,200 gallon small shark and ray tank with feedings at 1:30 and 3:15 during opening hours. Visitors are encouraged to meet reptiles and learn about their history and care while observing feeds throughout the afternoon.

BULLINGTON GARDENS

95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville

9AM -4PM , Mon-Sat year-round

828-698-6104

BullingtonGardens.org

Bullington Gardens is a 12-acre public

The Western North Carolina Air Museum displays restored vintage airplanes as well as replica antique planes and aviation memorabilia.

Sugarcane and Shepherd Desserts

Visitors can enjoy beautiful blooms at Bullington Gardens.

nonprofit garden and horticultural education center with a number of themed gardens featuring perennials, pollinator plants, herbs, native azaleas and some unusual specimen plants. It includes a distinctive collection of Japanese maples, a fairy garden (open June through August) and an extensive dahlia garden. The property also features a therapy garden for those with physical limitations and a nature trail with native woodland plants. Classes and workshops are offered year-round. Programs for school children and horticultural therapy for special-needs high school students are conducted during the school year. Operated as a partnership with Henderson County Public Schools and NC Cooperative Extension, Bullington Gardens was bequeathed by Bob Bullington, a New York City policeman who established a nursery on the site. Visitors are welcome in all seasons. There is no charge for admission but donations are encouraged. Tours and programs for groups can be arranged.

CARL SANDBURG HOME NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

Administered by the National Park Service Little River Road, Flat Rock

Parking lots, trails and grounds open daily, sunrise to sunset

Visit website or call for tours and farm area hours, which vary by season No charge for visiting the grounds, hiking or picnicking House tours: Reserve in advance via Recreation.gov.

$10 adults, $6 seniors, children under 15 free 828-693-4178

NPS.gov/Carl

This picturesque home and 269acre farm called Connemara was the residence of Carl Sandburg –Pulitzer-prize winning poet and author, biographer of Abraham Lincoln, journalist and social activist – and his family from 1945 to 1967. Against the backdrop of Glassy Mountain, the home’s peaceful

setting and interior remains as it was when the Sandburg family lived there. On the grounds, the park maintains a small goat herd descended from Mrs. Sandburg’s world-renowned herd of dairy goats. There also are five miles of trails that lead to wonderful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Throughout the year, special festivals and ranger programs are offered. Carl Sandburg Home NHS is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

CAROLINA AVIAN RESEARCH AND EDUCATION

Open March through December 561-281-4483

Check website for tour availability and price Carebird.org

Carolina Avian Research in Education is an adventure your family and friends will never forget. C.A.R.E. is dedicated to providing the best environment for the many species of birds. Guided tours take you through magnificent gardens and highlight different ecosystems while featuring birds from every continent in the world.

HANDS ON! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

318 N Main Street, Hendersonville

Check website for hours

$4 for children under 1, $10 for everyone else

828-697-8333

HandsOnWNC.org

Hands On! Children’s Museum is the place where learning comes into play. Catering to children ages one to 12 and their caregivers, this children’s museum provides educational exhibits and programs that stimulate the imagination and motivate learning. Traveling programs, space rental for events and birthday parties and memberships are also available. The People’s Museum & Walk of Fame is a celebration of continued on next page

Apple Valley Model Railroad Club is located at the Historic Train Depot in Hendersonville.

the history and culture of Black, Indigenous and People of Color. This exhibition is FREE to the community and is designed for both youth and adult learners.

HENDERSON COUNTY HERITAGE MUSEUM

1 Historic Courthouse Square, Suite 4 Inside the 1905 Historic Courthouse on Main Street, Hendersonville

10AM-5PM , Wed-Sat; 1- 5PM , Sun

828-694-1619

HendersonCountyMuseum.com

From the Revolutionary War to the coming of the train to the area’s Golden Age (1879-1929) to modern day, this museum celebrates the rich history of Henderson County. Its six exhibit rooms contain artifacts and multimedia presentations that inform visitors about the milestone events that shaped this area. Highlights include an interactive scale model of the Saluda Grade railway and a working telegraph system, the Courthouse room, and exhibits featuring the history and heritage of the Historic 7th Avenue District, the many summer camps in the area, the art of mountain quilting, Shepherd’s Store items, a spinning wheel showcasing the art of spinning and the Ridge exhibit that tells the story of communities along the Eastern Continental Divide and includes a working still.

HENDERSONVILLE HONEYCRISPS

69 Balfour Road, Hendersonville Seasonal, beginning late Spring HendersonvilleHoneycrisps.com

Making their home at the historic Berkeley Mills Ballpark, also known as ‘The Orchard,’ the Hendersonville Honeycrisps are a collegiate baseball team playing in the Old North State League. The team’s mission is to be the most exciting and family friendly entertainment option in the greater Hendersonville community

and aid in the personal and athletic development of college baseball players.

HENDERSONVILLE TRAIN DEPOT

650 Maple Avenue, Hendersonville 1-3PM , Wed; 10AM-2PM , Sat; 10AM-4PM the Friday after Thanksgiving 828-270-0858

AVMRC.com

Built in 1902, the historic depot has been restored to its original state and contains a museum featuring numerous railroad artifacts. Knowledgeable members of the Apple Valley Model Railroad Club staff the Depot and share their expertise in model railroading. The Depot houses the Club’s HO Scale model railroad. With more than 2,000 feet of track and 225 switches, its layout represents Henderson County, the Saluda Grade (the steepest railroad grade in the US) and the towns of Western North Carolina with day and night lighting in the Hendersonville and Asheville areas of the indoor layout. The Depot has a working telegraph guests can use, a camera car to see the layout from the engineer’s perspective, a touchscreen display with information about historical items in the building and a historic 1,000-pound, 112-year-old 1/8 scale Pauline engine. Visitors can also enjoy running “Thomas” on his track, climbing aboard the restored Southern Railway caboose and touring the G-scale outdoor garden railroad featuring the logging railroads that existed throughout the region more than 100 years ago. A drone camera shows live video from the caboose on the G-scale layout.

HISTORIC JOHNSON FARM

3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville

Call for guided tour times

Tour prices: $10 adults, $8 students and people 65 and older, free for ages under 5

Grounds open 8AM-4PM , Mon-Fri

No charge for visiting grounds

828-891-6585

HistoricJohnsonFarm.org

A late-19th-century/early-20th-

house and offer a variety of classes throughout the year as well as a gift shop featuring handmade items.

MINERAL AND LAPIDARY MUSEUM OF HENDERSON COUNTY

400 N Main Street, Hendersonville Free Admission

1-5PM , Mon-Fri, March-Dec

11AM-5PM , Sat

Closed Sun, Mon and Tue, Jan-Feb

828-698-1977

MineralMuseum.org

Home of the Hendersonville Meteorite, the museum also features North Carolina minerals, fluorescent minerals, replicas of world famous diamonds, a display of the lapidary arts, geode cracking, fossils and a T. rex skull replica. The museum offers free tours for schools and other groups.

century farm and summer tourist retreat, Historic Johnson Farm covered 500 acres in its prime. The main house was constructed from 1876 to 1880 with handmade bricks and is believed to be Henderson County’s first brick house. Sallie, Vernon and Leander Johnson opened up the house to summer guests in 1913 to bring in additional income. Vernon and Leander Johnson willed the house to the Henderson County Board of Education, and in 1987, the farm was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today the farm serves as a hands-on museum and heritage education center. Guided tours of the historic house and grounds are offered yearround. Field trips and group tours are also offered. The farm hosts numerous events each year. The Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists now occupy the former boarding continued on next page

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA AGRICULTURAL CENTER

1301 Fanning Bridge Road, Fletcher 828-687-1414 | WNCAgCenter.org

The Western North Carolina Agricultural Center is an entertainment venue that hosts a variety of community events, expos, workshops, musical performances, horse shows and more year-round. Since 1994, the WNC Agricultural Center has been home to the annual NC Mountain State Fair beginning the first Friday after Labor Day, which provides a memorable family event with top-notch entertainment and a focus on the deep agricultural roots of the region.

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA AIR MUSEUM

Follow blue road signs on US 176/ Spartanburg Hwy and Shepherd Street to 1340 E Gilbert Street

Open year-round, weather permitting Closed Christmas and New Year’s Day 10AM-5PM-Wed and Sat, April-Oct Noon-5PM, Sat and Sun, Nov-March 828-698-2482

WesternNorthCarolinaAirMuseum.com

Known as the first air museum in the “First-In-Flight” state, the Western North Carolina Air Museum displays restored vintage airplanes as well as replica antique planes and aviation memorabilia. The collection includes a two-thirds scale model of the 1903 Wright Flyer and a full-scale 1915 Sopwith Baby replica. Schools and other groups are welcome and tours can be arranged.

FARMERS MARKETS

THE

CURB MARKET

221 N Church Street, Hendersonville

8AM-2PM , Sat, Jan-March

8AM-2PM , Tue, Thu and Sat, April-Dec 828-692-8012 Facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063818102134

The Henderson County Curb Market is a farmers market that provides locally grown produce and hand crafted items. Shoppers can visit with the vendors as they choose from fresh fruits and vegetables, free range eggs, home baked

items, soups, preserves, salsas and relishes, and a variety of unique hand crafted items. The Curb Market began on Main Street in 1924 with eight families and has grown to more than 70 vendors. The Market hosts special annual events including June Jamboree, Ol’ Timey Day and Christmas Open House which is held the first Saturday after Thanksgiving.

ETOWAH LIONS FARMERS MARKET

Etowah Lions Clubhouse, 447 Etowah School Road

3-6PM, Wed, May-Oct Facebook.com/EtowahLionsFarmersMarket

The Etowah Lions Farmers Market features local vendors offering fresh produce, meats, eggs, honey, mushrooms, Bundt cakes, fresh flowers and a variety of arts and crafts. Organized by the Etowah Lions Club, the market also has special market days such as a healthfocused market day in June and a Tomato Festival in August.

FLAT ROCK FARMERS MARKET

On the green behind the Pinecrest ARP Church 1790 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock

3-6PM , Thursdays, May 2-Oct 31

FlatRockFarmersMarket.com

The market offers locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, garden starts, herbs, mushrooms, artisan breads and baked goods, local honey, jams, jellies, peaches, blueberries and apples – all direct from a local producer – plus prepared foods such as quiches and strudels to “Take and Bake.” Marketgoers also will find selected crafts from local artisans.

HENDERSON COUNTY TAILGATE MARKET

100 N King Street, Hendersonville (parking lot of County office building)

8AM -noon, Sat, April-Oct

828-891-3561

Facebook.com/HendersonCountyTailgateMarket

Established in 1979, the Henderson County Tailgate Market is one of the

oldest open air markets in Western North Carolina. This unique Saturday morning market has a festival feel in the heart of Hendersonville. The market is filled with local growers who operate small family farms in Henderson County who have developed a reputation for quality and high-value specialty crops and nursery stock. Throughout the season, the market offers plants, fresh-cut flowers, in-season fruits, vegetables, fresh trout, sourwood honey and baked goods.

HENDERSONVILLE FARMERS MARKET

Hendersonville Train Depot, 650 Maple Street, Hendersonville 8AM-1PM , Sat, May 4-Oct 26

828-233-3216

HendersonvilleFarmersMarket.com

The Hendersonville Farmers Market features an array of producers and growers with an emphasis on Henderson County-made items. Shoppers can expect at least 30 vendors, plus entertainment from local artists as well as kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations and themed events such as a Pollinator Day and Tomato Festival.

MILLS RIVER FARM MARKET

Mills River Elementary School Parking Lot 94 School House Road, Mills River 8AM -Noon, Sat, May-Oct 828-891-3332

Facebook.com/MillsRiverFarmersMarket

Mills River Farm Market is a produceronly market, selling only fruits and vegetables, plants, honey, crafts, meat products and other products grown and made within a 50-mile radius of the Town of Mills River. The Market accepts SNAP/EBT benefits as well as debit and credit cards and participates in the Double SNAP Program. Visitors can listen to local musicians while shopping. Educating the entire family is a major push for the market with a fun-filled Kid’s Zone and a Demonstration Kitchen for the adults.

Discover the Arts & Culture

From renowned art exhibits to nationally recognized theater productions to musical organizations that welcome community participation, Hendersonville and Henderson County offer many cultural opportunities and events throughout the year.

ARTS

ARTS COUNCIL OF HENDERSON COUNTY

828-693-8504

ACofHC.org

Arts Council of Henderson County promotes, advocates for and nurtures the arts in Henderson County and Western North Carolina. The Arts Council partners with multiple organizations to present exhibitions featuring visual art by local and regional artists as well as the county’s students and art teachers. The Arts Council also presents performances and visual and performing arts events throughout the year, including Art on Main, an outdoor fine art and fine crafts fair now in its 64th year,

and other opportunities.

ART LEAGUE OF HENDERSON COUNTY

828-490-5639

ArtLeagueHVL.org

Founded in 1972, the Art League of Henderson County provides access to the visual arts for the Hendersonville community and its visitors. The Art League’s mission is to continually expand its programs and opportunities, ensuring that every citizen has access to the visual arts.

Expanding to meet the needs of the growing community, the Art Place building sets the stage for a diverse array of fine art exhibits, special

Mentors and Students Art Exhibit, La Vie En Rosé Art & Wine Festival, Winter Sound and more. The Arts Council is a designated County Partner with the North Carolina Arts Council, administering grants to Henderson County nonprofit arts organizations and regional artists. The Arts Council also serves Henderson County children through the Artists-in-Schools program funded by donations from members of the community. The Arts Council also offers after school performing and visual arts classes as well as spring break and summer classes. The Arts Council offers memberships to local artists and art enthusiasts which include quarterly Artist Meetups and networking events, discounts for art exhibits continued on page 62

The 2022 All-County Honor Chorus performance, which the Carolina Concert Choir sponsors annually.

Art MoB Studios & Marketplace

Art MoB’s 4000+square-foot gallery showcases the work of over 90 local artisans and is home to five working resident artist’s studios, where you can experience the creation of artwork. Owner Michele Sparks curates a wide range of mediums, 2D, 3D, jewelry, metals, pottery and much more. We are happy to help select just the right artwork for your home or office. We also offer a great selection of handmade gifts for that special someone. Enjoy Free Parking while shopping in the gallery.

Simone Wood Fine Art

I’ve been painting in watercolor for more than eight years as a skilled artist. My artwork is unique and original. I specialize in painting avian subjects, particularly songbirds. I prioritize the subject itself rather than the background, allowing it to stand out and capture attention. I find that I can paint a bird in such a way that it flies off the paper and into the hearts of the viewer. Please visit my working studio at Art MoB.

events and learning opportunities.

At the Gallery at Art Place, visitors can immerse themselves in monthly exhibits of beautifully curated 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional works unveiled on the first Saturday of each month with an opening reception where visitors can meet the artists and celebrate the magic of creativity.

The Art Place Studios, an adjacent facility, houses working artist studios including the Glassman Clay Studio. The studios house over 20 artist studios representing various artistic mediums. Visitors can see artists working in their studios and learn about their process and inspiration Wednesday through Saturday, 11AM to 4PM.

The League also offers a variety of public art programs, shows and tours including ArtScape Banner Program, Celebrate Art! Regional Juried Show, Fall for Art — Open

Studio Tour, La Vie en Rosé, ongoing exhibits at the Henderson County Library and a Fabulous Fakes exhibit featuring whimsical versions of masterpieces.

The Art League is a volunteer-led organization run by artists and art enthusiasts. The organization welcomes all to participate and volunteer in contributing to their mission of enriching lives through art. Details of current exhibits and activities can be found on the League’s website.

MUSIC

CAROLINA CONCERT CHOIR

828-393-5737

CarolinaConcertChoir.org

The Carolina Concert Choir has about 50 members of all ages under the direction of Artistic Director and Conductor Dr. Michael Lancaster with Susan

Clearmani serving as accompanist. Composed of auditioned singers from Hendersonville, Asheville, Sylva, Brevard and upstate South Carolina, the choir’s repertoire includes a mix of classical choral and choral/symphonic compositions and lighter fare, including popular favorites. The Carolina Concert Choir performs twice, near the Christmas/Hanukkah holiday in mid-December and once in mid-April for a spring concert. Rehearsals and performances are at Grace Lutheran Church at 1245 6th Avenue West in Hendersonville. The choir also periodically performs with the Asheville Symphony Chorus, Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra and Brevard Philharmonic Orchestra in their venues. The Carolina Concert Choir sponsors the annual All-County Honors Chorus for more than 80 aspiring middle and high school students which concludes with a concert the third weekend every November. Visit their website to learn more, for concert information, to schedule an audition with Dr. Lancaster and to purchase tickets or donate.

FOUR SEASONS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

828-490-7119

4SeasonsOrchestra.org

The Four Seasons Chamber Orchestra performs music in one concert each spring, summer, fall and winter in Hendersonville and across WNC. Its mission is to present inspiring music in intimate settings and raise funds and awareness at every concert in support of causes and organizations in the community. The 4SCO is composed of professional, amateur and student musicians with programming that ranges from historic masterpieces of the symphonic tradition to new art and popular music and beyond. The 4SCO is led by director and conductor Eric Scheider.

continued on page 64

The Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra is conducted by John Young Shik Concklin

BROADWAY QUALITY SHOWS IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOMETOWN! LET US ENTERTAIN YOU!

The State Theatre of North Carolina

HENDERSONVILLE CHORALE

828-425-8584

Facebook.com/HendersonvilleChorale

This group of approximately 30-40 people which sing all varieties of music from classics to show tunes, is a non-auditioned group of singers that includes every age group and skill level. The Hendersonville Chorale’s mission is to provide opportunities to all people who love to sing and share the love of music and the inspiration it provides the greater community. The chorale prides itself on its welcoming camaraderie. Directed by Michael Stephen Brannon, the Chorale prepares and performs two concerts each year, one in the spring and another in the fall. The Chorale seeks new members. Those interested should email optisand52@gmail.com.

HENDERSONVILLE COMMUNITY BAND

HCBMusic.com

The Hendersonville Community Band, founded by Jim Stokes, has been sharing music with Hendersonville and the surrounding area since 1991. The band, which consists of 75 amateur and professional musicians, performs four concerts per season: in the fall, at holiday time, spring and early summer presenting a wide range of selections and occasional guest appearances by other artists and ensembles. HCB encourages music education through the Jim Stokes Summer Music Camp Scholarships for Henderson County students and through the Ralph Campbell and Joan Tripp Scholarships for students majoring in instrumental music education in area colleges. HCB is led by Conductor Winford Franklin and Associate Conductor Dr. Cole Hairston.

HENDERSONVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

828-697-5884

HendersonvilleSymphony.org

Established in 1971, the

Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra is an orchestra of professional musicians that performs six concerts a year, conducted by Music Director John Young Shik Concklin. All main season performances are held in the Blue Ridge Conference (Concert) Hall at Blue Ridge Community College. Season subscription and single concert tickets are available throughout the season, which runs from September through May. The Hendersonville Symphony considers the musical enrichment and education of young people a major priority. Youth programs include the Hendersonville Symphony Youth Orchestra, Hendersonville Symphony Youth Chorus, Young Artist Competition, Education Concerts for local, school-aged children and a Youth Scholarship program. Volunteers with Friends of the Hendersonville Symphony help produce the Symphony’s fundraisers each year.

HENDERSONVILLE SWING BAND

828-696-8031

This 17-piece band has been a musical fixture in Hendersonville since 1996. Staying true to the original masters of swing, the band performs music by The Dorsey Brothers, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Count Basie and more. Led by trombonistconductor Jerry Zink, the band plays benefit concerts several times a year for local service organizations and charities.

THEATRE

FLAT ROCK PLAYHOUSE

2661 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock 828-693-0731

FlatRockPlayhouse.org

North Carolina’s State Theatre opened its curtain in 1952 in the Village of Flat Rock. Seventy years later, the theatre continues to provide the region with professional live entertainment. About 90,000 patrons a year enjoy a variety of

musicals, comedies, contemporary dramas, the Playhouse Jr. family/ school series and music concerts that entertain and enlighten all year long. The theatre also offers excellence in arts education and outreach to children and adults locally, regionally and statewide.

HENDERSONVILLE THEATRE

229 S Washington Street, Hendersonville 828-692-1082

HVLTheatre.org

For more than 55 years, Hendersonville Theatre (formerly Hendersonville Community Theatre) has been the official theatre for the community. The theatre’s purpose is to enrich, stimulate and entertain Western North Carolina by providing high quality live theatre, music, films, education and special events. The theatre is run by a professional staff, but welcomes anyone with a desire to learn more about performing arts.

Art on Main, an outdoor art and fine crafts fair, features works from artists across the region.

The Great Outdoors

Henderson County and its neighboring Western North Carolina counties boast beautiful, nationally recognized places for exploring the great outdoors.

Year round opportunities abound throughout the region for hiking, mountain biking, cycling, backpacking, camping, fishing, hunting, skiing, snowboarding, tubing, paddling and other outdoor activities in conservation areas, forests and other natural settings.

BEARWALLOW MOUNTAIN

Off Bearwallow Mountain Road

Hendersonville

ConservingCarolina.org/BearwallowMountain and VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/ Scenic-ToursHikes

Bearwallow Mountain is in eastern Henderson County at an elevation of 4,232 feet above sea level. Both the Bearwallow Mountain Trail and the Trombatore Trail start from the same parking lot on Bearwallow Mountain Road. Parking is limited so carpooling encouraged. The one-mile-long Bearwallow Trail features a grassy meadow at its summit along with a historic fire tower and a 360° view that includes such area landmarks as downtown Hendersonville, Mt.

Pisgah, Mt. Mitchell, Hickory Nut Gorge and upstate South Carolina. It is possible to continue past the summit on the newly-extended Wildcat Trail. Starting from the same trailhead, the Trombatore Trail is a 2.4-mile hike through a forest with significant changes in elevation and panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Bearwallow Mountain.

DUPONT STATE

RECREATIONAL FOREST

Henderson Co/Transylvania Co Line 828-877-6527

NCForestService.gov/Contacts/DSF.htm or DupontForest.com

Stretching from Stone Mountain in Henderson County to Rich Mountain in Transylvania County, the 10,400acre DuPont State Recreational Forest contains a variety of plant communities including rich hardwood coves, groves of white pine, upland oaks, spray cliff plants and sedges on granite domes. The forest features four spectacular waterfalls – Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, High Falls and Bridal Veil Falls

– all within a three-hour walk along the Little River. In addition, Grassy Creek Falls, Wintergreen Falls and several mountain lakes can be found along the trails. The forest has approximately 90 miles of roads and trails open to hiking, biking and horseback riding. Visitor parking is available in six access areas located around the perimeter of the forest. Interior forest roads are not open to motorized vehicles. As part of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission’s Game Lands program, parts of the forest are open to deer, turkey and small game hunting on certain days and by permit only. For fishing, DuPont features impoundments, warm-water streams and coldwater streams. A state fishing license is required for anglers ages 16 and older. For more information about hunting or fishing, visit NCWildlife.org or call 833-950-0575. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open year-round from 5AM to 10PM. There is no public camping. Support for the forest also comes from the continued on page 68

Dupont State Forest is a popular mountain biking destination. Photo credit: David Rutecki

Friends of DuPont Forest, a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to the forest’s preservation.

ECUSTA TRAIL

EcustaTrail.org

828-490-1854

The Ecusta Trail, when complete, will be a 19.4 mile, multi-use greenway along an unused railway corridor (railtrail) connecting Hendersonville and Brevard. This ‘linear park’ will beckon people of all ages and abilities to reach destinations by foot, bike or wheelchair. The rail line meanders through fields and forests, beside streams, pastures and country churches, offering a picture-book journey through a life nurtured and cradled in the mountains of Western North Carolina. In October of 2023, partners broke ground on the first six miles of trail, running from Hendersonville to Horse Shoe. This section will begin at South Main Street in Hendersonville and end at US 64 after passing through Laurel Park and is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Design and engineering work for the remainder of the trail in Henderson and Transylvania Counties is currently

underway with construction of those segments expected to begin in 2026. The Friends of the Ecusta Trail continue to raise funds needed to provide important trail amenities such as trailheads, restrooms and shelters. They are seeking generous donations from the community to do so and make the dream of the Ecusta Trail real at last.

HOLMES EDUCATIONAL STATE FOREST

1299 Crab Creek Road, Hendersonville

9AM to 5PM , Tue-Fri and 11AM to 6 PM , Sat & Sun, March-Oct

9AM to 5PM , Tue-Fri, Nov-Feb

Closed designated NC state holidays

828-692-0100

NCESF.org/Holmes.html

Holmes Educational State Forest features nearly five miles of welltended trails that vary in length and difficulty. The trails showcase a variety of native trees marked for identification and many varieties of wildflowers. Displays and self-guided tours teach about nature, ecology and forest management. Along the unique, easy, half-mile “Talking Tree Trail,” the trees themselves tell passersby why their type of tree is important to the forest. Holmes Educational State Forest features outdoor education workshops, picnic facilities, ranger conducted classes and a group campground that is available seasonally just for youth groups.

UPPER HICKORY NUT GORGE TRAILHEAD

3836 Gerton Hwy, Gerton

828-697-5777

HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/ Page/Upper-Hickory-Nut-Gorge-Trailhead

Located on Highway 74 in the northeastern corner of Henderson County, this property is a trail access point. This trailhead park offers parking and access to hiking trails that lead to the Florence Preserve and the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge. Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trailhead covers an area of 26 acres.

WILDCAT ROCK TRAIL

3823 Gerton Hwy, Gerton

828-697-5777

ConservingCarolina.org/ Wildcat-Rock-Trail

Formerly known as the Little Bearwallow Falls Trail, Wildcat Rock Trail offers moderate to very strenuous out-and-back hike that is up to 10 miles round-trip, featuring a waterfall, views from a rock outcrop and a meadow along the ridge line. This trail can be customized for a short or long hike.

MORE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, backpackers, campers and water sports enthusiasts will find even more outdoor fun just beyond Henderson County, making its location ideal for day trips and weekend getaways to such public lands, conserved spaces and private

CYCLING AND MOUNTAIN BIKING

Blue Ridge Bicycle Club BlueRidgeBicycleClub.org

Downtown Asheville Racing Club DARCCycling.com

North Carolina Bike Routes NCDOT.gov/BikePed/ NCBikeways

Pisgah Area SORBA PisgahAreaSORBA.org

HIKING

Carolina Mountain Club CarolinaMountainClub.org

Conserving Carolina ConservingCarolina.org

High Country Hikers

HighCountryHikers .org

Pisgah Hikers PisgahHikers.org

SNOW SKIING, SNOWBOARDING AND TUBING

Asheville Ski Club AshevilleSkiClub.com

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers many scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

attractions as:

• Appalachian Trail: NPS.gov/Appa

• Bent Creek Experimental Forest: FS.USDA.gov/RecArea/NFSNC/ RecArea/?recid=48170

• The Biltmore Estate: Biltmore.com

• Blue Ridge Parkway: NPS.gov/BlRi/Index.htm, BlueRidgeParkway.org

• T he Cradle of Forestry: GoFindOutdoors.org/ Cradle-of-Forestry

• Chimney Rock State Park: ChimneyRockPark.com

• Gorges State Park: NCParks.gov/Gorges-State-Park

• Grandfather Mountain: Grandfather.com

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: NPS.gov/GRSM/index.htm

• Lake James State Park: NCParks.gov/ Lake-James-State-Park

• Lake Julian Park: BuncombeCounty.org/ Governing/Depts/Parks/ Facilities/Parks/Lake-Julian.aspx

• Lake Lure Flowering Bridge: LakeLureFloweringBridge.org

• Mount Mitchell State Park: NCParks.gov/ Mount-Mitchell-State-Park

• Nantahala National Forest: FS.USDA.gov/RecArea/NFSNC/ RecArea/?recid=4863

• The North Carolina Arboretum: NCArboretum.org

• Panthertown Valley: Panthertown.org

• Pearson’s Falls & Glen: PearsonsFalls.org

• Pisgah National Forest: FS.USDA.gov/RecArea/NFSNC/ RecArea/?recid=48114

• Purple Martin Greenway: RutherfordtonTrails.com/ Purple-Martin-Greenway

FISHING AND HUNTING

Anglers have bountiful opportunities in local rivers and lakes for fishing –including fly fishing – and public game lands offer hunting by permit. For more information, visit: the Hendersonville Visitor Center’s page with local fishing resources at VisithendersonvilleNC.org/Things-To-Do?fwp_ Accommodations=Fishing-Hunting#All-Listings, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission for information about required licenses and permits, rules and regulations, hunting seasons and where to fish and hunt at NCWildlife.org, Pisgah Chapter of Trout Unlimited with fishing maps, hatch charts, programs and more at PisgahTU.org, the USDA Forest Service for information about fishing and hunting in national forests at FS.USDA.gov/Activity/NFSNC/ Recreation/Fishing and FS.USDA.gov/Activity/NFSNC/Recreation/Hunting

Parks & Recreation in Henderson County

Parks, playgrounds, trails and indoor facilities throughout Henderson County offer a plethora of recreational fun for all ages.

PLAYGROUNDS, PARKS AND BALLFIELDS

HENDERSON COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION

Parks & Recreation Department

828-697-4884

HendersonCountyNC.org/Recreation

BLANTYRE PARK

120 Grove Bridge Road, Hendersonville HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/Page/ Blantyre-Park

This park near the Transylvania County line offers parking and a canoe port to the French Broad River, a state-designated watercraft trail.

DANA COMMUNITY PARK

2879 Upward Road, Flat Rock HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/ Page/Dana-Community-Park

The park offers a community building and picnic shelter, an open field, a walking trail with benches, a playground and a basketball hoop.

EAST FLAT ROCK PARK

107 Blue Ridge Road, East Flat Rock HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/ Page/East-Flat-Rock-Park

This park offers a picnic shelter, a gazebo, a playground, swings, walking trails and recreational fields.

ETOWAH PARK

449 Etowah School Road, Etowah HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/ Page/Etowah-Park

This nearly 18-acre park includes a walking trail, tennis courts, a shelter, picnic tables, a Little Free Library, a playground, sports fields, batting cages, a shuffleboard court and a disc golf course.

JACKSON PARK

801 4th Avenue E, Hendersonville

Covering 220 acres, Jackson Park features walking trails, multipurpose fields for soccer and events, baseball/softball fields, tennis

continued on page 72

Oklawaha Greenway Trail runs through Jackson Park.

PARDEE URGENT CARE

Need care right away for an injury or illness but it’s not an emergency? Pardee Urgent Care helps you feel good again fast, and is open evenings, weekends, and most holidays. Brevard

courts, playgrounds, basketball courts, a disc golf course, a mountain bike skills park, adult exercise equipment, picnic shelters and an entrance to the Oklawaha Greenway. The park also features an all-inclusive ADA playground accessible for all kids with varying developmental needs.

TUXEDO PARK

1299 Old US Highway 25, Zirconia HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/ Page/Tuxedo-Park

This park covers more than six acres and includes a walking trail, picnic shelter, gazebo, veterans memorial, a playground and open green space.

WESTFELDT

PARK

83 Old Fanning Bridge Road, Fletcher HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/ Page/Westfeldt-Park

Located along the French Broad River, this park with more than 15 acres offers picnic areas, river access, a canoe/small boat launch ramp and an open field area.

HENDERSONVILLE CITY PARKS

HENDERSONVILLE CITY PARKS

828-697-3084

HendersonvilleNC.gov/Parks

BERKELEY MILLS PARK

69 Balfour Road

This 60-acre park features a baseball park and a pavilion for rent. Berkeley Mills Park joins the Oklawaha Greenway by way of a trail connecting it to the county’s Jackson Park.

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MEMORIAL PARK

Fourth Avenue and Grove Street

This city park near downtown provides greenspace with benches, picnic tables and a granite memorial.

EDWARDS PARK

904 N Main Street

HendersonvilleNC.gov/EdwardsPark

Edwards Park is located on North

Main Street, a few blocks from downtown Hendersonville. Edwards Park and the Laura E. Corn MiniGolf course were reimagined and reopened in 2023 with an 18-hole ADA-accessible course. The park also includes a playground, concession stand and local art features.

FOUR SEASONS ROTARY PARK

804 W Allen Street

This park features a pavilion with two picnic tables, a paved walking trail with park benches along the trail and a playground.

LENOX PARK

Lenox Park Drive near S Whitted Street

Composed of one-half acre, this park has picnic tables and a historic natural spring.

PATTON PARK

1730 Asheville Highway

HendersonvilleNC.gov/Parks/Patton-Pool YMCAWNC.org/Patton-Park-and-Pool

The City of Hendersonville partners with the Hendersonville Family YMCA to manage all recreational space at Patton Park except for the skate park. Patton Park’s 19 acres include a football field, baseball fields, basketball courts, a lighted walking trail, picnic pavilions, gazebos, tennis and pickleball

courts and a playground. The park’s Olympic-size outdoor pool at 114 E Clairmont Drive is open seasonally.

SULLIVAN PARK

713 Martin Circle

This five -acre park includes basketball courts, a playground and picnic tables. An asphalt connector joins Sullivan Park with the Oklawaha Greenway Trail.

TOMS PARK

318 W Allen Street

Toms Park’s five acres include 27 shuffleboard courts and several picnic tables.

INDOOR RECREATION

HENDERSON COUNTY ATHLETICS & ACTIVITY CENTER

708 S Grove Street, Hendersonville 828-697-4884

HendersonCountyNC.gov/Recreation/ Page/Athletics-Activity-Center-AAC

This indoor facility has a number of amenities including multiple classrooms for various activities, a dance room, a soccer field and a gymnasium where programs such as basketball, volleyball and pickleball are hosted.

On its 212 acres, Jackson Park caters to just about every outdoor sport.

HENDERSONVILLE

FAMILY YMCA

810 W 6th Avenue, Hendersonville 828-697-9622

YMCAWNC.org/Hendersonville

The Hendersonville Family YMCA offers group exercise classes, personal training, swim lessons and other fitness and communitybuilding programs. Membership includes access to amenities such as a wellness center, indoor pool and tennis courts.

MORE OUTDOOR FUN IN THE COUNTY

BILL MOORE

COMMUNITY PARK

85 Howard Gap Road, Fletcher 828-687-0751

FletcherNC.org/Departments/Parks-andRecreation/BillMooreCommunityPark

Bill Moore Community Park features a playground, four pickle ball courts, one basketball and one tennis court, multi-purpose and baseball/softball fields, miles of scenic walking paths and trails, arboretum gardens, access to Cane Creek, a picnic area with a pavilion, a disc golf course, a dog park and an outdoor fitness circuit.

HENDERSONVILLE INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND

HENDERSONVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

1039 Randall Circle, Hendersonville 828-697-4752

HCPSNC.org/HES

Located on the grounds of Hendersonville Elementary School, this inclusive playground was envisioned by the Hendersonville Inclusive Playground Project (HIPP) which was formed to create a playground with safe, stimulating and accessible features for children with diverse physical, mental and developmental abilities. Families may use the green space and playground outside of school hours, and groups may complete a facility rental request at HendersonCountyPublicSchoolsNC.

org/Core/Facilities-Rental.

JUMP OFF ROCK PARK

4501 Laurel Park Highway, Laurel Park 828-693-4840

LaurelPark.org/JumpOff

Jump Off Rock is the scenic overlook atop Echo Mountain which can be reached by driving all the way up Laurel Park Highway. The park includes a trail system. Jump Off Rock provides a panoramic view of rolling pastures and the Blue Ridge and Pisgah mountain ranges.

KATE’S & PETE’S PARK

Library Road, Fletcher 828-687-0751

FletcherNC.org/Departments/Parks-andRecreation/KatesandPetesPark

Adjacent to the Fletcher Library, this park features a playground, paved walking trail, green open space and a picnic shelter.

LAUREL GREEN PARK

440 White Pine Drive, Hendersonville 828-693-4840

LaurelPark.org/LaurelGreen

This 4-acre parcel of level land is

enclosed by a perimeter of planted berms and a stream. The park includes a playground, walking paths, a pond and a gazebo.

MILLS RIVER PARK

Town Center Drive & Haywood Road, Mills River 828-890-2901

MillsRiver.org/245/Mills-River-Park

Maintained by the Town of Mills River, this park includes a multi-use trail, playground with sunshade, dog park, picnic shelter, tennis/pickleball courts, basketball court, handicapped accessible fishing pier and a launch for non-motorized watercraft such as tubes, canoes and kayaks.

OKLAWAHA GREENWAY TRAIL

Jackson Park to Patton Park, Hendersonville FriendsofOklawaha.org

Following Mud Creek, which also is known as Oklawaha Creek, the 3.5-mile Oklawaha Greenway Trail winds through wetlands, meadows and forests to connect four parks.

continued on next page

Patton Pool opens each year on Memorial Day weekend and closes on Labor Day.

The trail is handicapped accessible, relatively flat and suitable for walking and cycling. Water access for launching tubes, kayaks and canoes is available at both the 7th Avenue parking area and at Berkeley Mills Park. Highlights along the way include a wetland area with native trees and shrubs and an observation deck allows for watching and listening to songbirds.

THE PARK AT FLAT ROCK

55 Highland Golf Drive, Flat Rock

828-697-8100

FlatRockNC.GovOffice3.com

Located in the French Broad watershed on the site of a former golf course, the Village of Flat Rock owns and manages this 66-acre park which features open green spaces, a variety of local flora and fauna, scenic trails, a picnic pavilion, the Rhett-Maybank

Nature Center, a welcome center with a community room meeting space and two playgrounds. The nonprofit Flat Rock Park and Recreation Foundation, Inc. helps support The Park at Flat Rock.

RHODODENDRON LAKE

NATURE PARK

321 Primrose Lane, Hendersonville 828-693-4840

LaurelPark.org/RLNP

Managed by the Town of Laurel Park, this 10-acre park features Rhododendron Lake which was built in 1909. The park includes walking paths, fitness stations, a catch-and-release fishing pond and a picnic area. Laurel Green and Rhododendron Lake Nature Park are connected via the sidewalk on Laurel Park Highway to Primrose Lane.

MORE PLACES TO WALK IN HENDERSON COUNTY

Blue Ridge Community College BlueRidge.edu

Blue Ridge Mall (Inside) ShopBlueRidgeMall.com

Bullington Gardens BullingtonGardens.org

Carl Sandburg

Home National Historic Site NPS.gov/Carl

Historic Johnson Farm HistoricJohnsonFarm.org

Main Street Walking Tour in Downtown Hendersonville VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/ WP-Content/Uploads/ Main-St-Walking-Tour.pdf

Perry N. Rudnick

Nature Trail BlueRidgeHeritageTrail.com/ Explore-a-Trail-of-HeritageTreasures/The-Perry-NRudnick-Art-Nature-Trail

Mills River Park offers a shaded playground area for families to enjoy.

The Park at Flat Rock offers a scenic trail for walking or jogging.

HENDERSONVILLE FAMILY YMCA

The YMCA is a community-based nonprofit that serves your spirit, mind, and body and helps you become your best self. We have programs for children, teens, families, adults, and healthy agers. Membership includes:

Heated indoor pool

Unlimited group exercise classes, such as yoga, Zumba, and HIIT

Family-friendly environment, with free drop-in childcare for household memberships

Basketball and pickleball

Discounts on swim lessons, youth sports, wellness programs, and more

Personalized wellness coaching

Supportive programs for chronic conditions such as Parkinson's, arthritis, diabetes, and cancer

Full access to all seven local YMCAs and more nationwide

Leaders Club for teens, social clubs, recreational activities, and volunteer opportunities

to community

Golfers Paradise

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or new to the sport, North Carolina is a paradise for golfers with excellent courses in and around Hendersonville. Golfers can choose to play at any level, and with Henderson County’s moderate climate, golfers can enjoy playing on its many courses throughout the year.

PUBLIC COURSES

BROADMOOR GOLF LINKS

101 French Broad Lane, Fletcher

828-687-1500

BroadmoorGolfLinks.com

This 18-hole, par-72, championship course in Fletcher was designed by noted golf course architect Karl Litten in the Scottish links style. With bentgrass greens, bermuda grass fairways and water throughout, this course offers a challenge to golfers of all skill levels. Broadmoor Golf Links is designed to be enjoyed in four hours whether riding or walking for 18 holes. Nine holes are available for play, as well. Tees measure from 4,020 to more than 7,000 yards. The

clubhouse features a restaurant and two-story event venue that can entertain groups of various sizes. Personalized golf instruction is available from Broadmoor Golf Links’ PGA Professional Staff as well as through PGA Jr. League and Jr. Camps. Broadmoor Golf Links also has multiple leagues throughout the week.

CROOKED CREEK GOLF CLUB

764 Crooked Creek Road, Hendersonville 828-692-2011

Open to the public year-round, this 18-hole, 6,741-yard, par72, championship course was established in 1968 and is located

just one and a half miles from downtown Hendersonville in the Crooked Creek Community off Kanuga Road. The course rating is 70.9 and it has a slope rating of 127. Designed by Stewart Gooden, Crooked Creek Golf Club offers mountain views and challenging play for golfers with four sets of tees for different skill levels. The practice area includes a full driving range, practice sand trap and chipping green. Well-groomed fairways and greens keep Crooked Creek Golf Club challenging but friendly, and the staff can offer tips for playing your best round.

continued on page 78

A breathtaking view of the Champion Hills course.

Crooked Creek Golf Club

ETOWAH VALLEY

GOLF & RESORT

470 Brickyard Road, Etowah 828-891-7022

EtowahValley.com

Designed by Edmund B. Ault, this 27-hole, championship course offers mountain views, a putting green, driving range and practice area, pro shop, clubhouse, restaurant, lounge, heated swimming pool, 65 lodge rooms and two cottages. Five sets of tees accommodate all levels of golfers.

ORCHARD TRACE

GOLF CLUB

3389 Sugarloaf Road, Hendersonville 828-685-1006

Facebook.com/OrchardTraceGolfCourse

Built on a former apple orchard, this 18-hole, par-3 course is fully lighted to permit seasonal evening play and features bluegrass fairways, bluegrass tees and bentgrass greens. Its hilly terrain – with a small lake and two creeks – offers 2,450 yards of play year-round. continued on page 80

The clubhouse at Champion Hills offers scenic views.

PRIVATE AND SEMIPRIVATE COURSES

CHAMPION HILLS

1 Hagen Drive, Hendersonville 828-696-1962

ChampionHills.com

Award-winning golf course architect Tom Fazio designed Champion Hills as his Mountain Masterpiece. This year-round championship course is ranked as Golfweek’s #1 YearRound Private Course in Western North Carolina. Members also enjoy a range of other amenities including a top-ranked Wellness Center, exceptional dining and more. Limited resident and non-resident golf memberships are available.

CUMMINGS COVE

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

20 Cummings Cove Parkway, Hendersonville 828-891-9412

CummingsCove.com

One of America’s 50 Best MasterPlanned Communities offers this award-winning, 18-hole, 6,085yard, par-71 course featuring elevated tees, tree-lined fairways, lakes, streams and Blue Ridge

mountain views. Three unique par-3 holes highlight the back nine. The clubhouse features a public restaurant, lounge, meeting rooms and library with a separate golf shop next door. Additionally, non-resident golf memberships are available. If interested, contact the membership director at 828-891-1512.

HENDERSONVILLE COUNTRY CLUB

1860 Hebron Road, Hendersonville 828-693-6507

HendersonvilleCC.com

Designed by Donald Ross, this private, 18-hole, 6,523-yard, par-70, championship course. The club also boasts two practice greens, a short game green, a driving range and a pro shop, clubhouse and grill.

KENMURE COUNTRY CLUB

100 Clubhouse Drive, Flat Rock 828-693-8506

Kenmure.com/Golf

At the heart of the Kenmure development lies a distinguished 18-hole golf course meticulously designed by Joe Lee. Spanning 6,509 yards with a par of 72, this traditional course boasts exquisitely crafted bentgrass greens, fairways and

tees. With five sets of tees available, golfers can enjoy a challenging yet enjoyable experience whether riding or walking the course is preferred. Kenmure provides flexible event spaces for all occasions. Toptracer technology was recently added to the driving range in the Spring of 2024.

The clubhouse at Kenmure overlooks the course.

Hendersonville Country Club is a private course designed by Donald Ross.

ENVIRONMENTAL LAWN BENEFITS

FRESH OXYGEN

A 5,000 sq ft grass lawn can produce enough fresh oxygen daily for 14-34 people.

RAINFALL CAPTURE

A 5,000 sq ft grass lawn can capture between 2,000 and 27,000 gallons of water depending on soil type.

ABOVE GROUND BENEFITS BELOW GROUND BENEFITS

COOLING POTENTIAL

Lawns can be up to 60 degrees cooler than surrounding hardscapes.

SOIL MICROBIOME

Grass lawns enhance soil microbial diversity when compared to bare soil and helps regulate microbial community composition.

CARBON CAPTURE

Carbon modeling research of a typical suburban home on a half-acre lot, landscape beds, shrubs, tress and a grass lawn indicates that between 81% and 90% of the carbon captured in the landscape is captured by the lawn.

Turf Mountain Sod, a family farm, cares about their customers, the environment, and their community. From championship golf courses to lawns or just enough to fix a patch, quality and satisfaction are at the heart of their service. Give them a call, they’d love to talk to you.

Henderson County –A Welcoming Place for Pets and Their People

Visitors and residents alike find that Henderson County is a welcoming place not only for them but also for their animal companions.

Any day along the streets of downtown Hendersonville, people can be seen strolling with their dogs and relaxing with their four-legged friends outside at restaurants, coffeehouses and breweries.

For the comfort and safety of animals and to help keep downtown Hendersonville enjoyable for everyone, the city requires that pet owners keep pets leashed and

under control and that they clean up and dispose of pet waste.

PETS AND DOWNTOWN EVENTS

Hendersonville hosts downtown community celebrations throughout the year. At many of these events – such as the Rhythm & Brews concerts and the North Carolina Apple Festival during Labor Day

weekend – pets are not allowed. At the Tails in Town event, however, dog lovers and their furry friends take center stage and are encouraged to attend. The autumn celebration includes exhibitors, vendors, a costume pageant and educational sessions. Learn more at WTZQ.com/ Tails-in-Town.

For more about how Hendersonville

continued on page 84

Henderson County offers many opportunities to bring your furry friends with you.

UNIQUE PET BOUTIQUE

Hendersonville’s first and favorite pet boutique, celebrating 15 years in business. Carrying the best selection of raw, fresh, freeze dried and traditional dog and cat foods and supplements. Offering a wide variety of mix and match bulk treats, chews, antlers, bones, toys, collars, harnesses, games, travel gear, and baked goods. Supporting positive relationships between pets and their people.

Open 7 days a week 9AM-6PM

Sometimes later on Summertime Weekends!

231 N Main Street | Hendersonville 828-697-7799

HappyTails@WagPetBoutique.com @WagPet WagPetBoutique.com

A

DOG'S DAY OUT & A DOG'S NIGHT INN

Providing large doggie play areas for running, jumping and chasing a ball or furry friends. A Dog’s Day Out provides your pup with a great day while you are at work or away.

A Dog’s Night Inn provides boarding while offering large outdoor exercise areas in a peaceful country setting. The full service operation pampers your pet throughout their stay.

A Dog's Day Out

942 Maple Street | Hendersonville 828-692-0200

ADogsDayOutNC.com

A Dog's Night Inn

227 Lane Road | Flat Rock 828-595-9809

Easy Online Reservations

ADogsNightInn.com

Foothills Humane Society (FHS) is a private non-profit, 501(c)3 no-kill animal welfare organization located on eleven acres nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Polk County, North Carolina. Our Mission is to shelter and care for stray and surrendered companion animals within our community; prevent cruelty to animals; reunite lost animals with their owners; adopt animals to qualified homes or place them with reputable rescue organizations; and educate the public about responsible animal ownership and population control.

FHS is supported by donations, grants, adoption fees, fundraisers and a contract with Polk County Animal Control.

ADOPT, FOSTER, VOLUNTEER, DONATE

989 Little Mountain Road Columbus, NC 28722 Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm 828-863-4444

LAUREL PARK ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Laurel Park Animal Hospital is a full-service, small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care. Although their focus is on preventative medicine, their hospital is equipped with a wide range of diagnostic and treatment capabilities. At Laurel Park Animal Hospital, they create individualized preventative healthcare plans, promote client education and practice optimal veterinary care to keep your pet happy and healthy through all stages of life.

1824 Windsor Drive Hendersonville 828-697-5686

LaurelParkAnimalHospital.com

appeals to people and their pets, visit VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/ Pet-Friendly.

DOG PARKS

Pets are welcome at public parks throughout Hendersonville and Henderson County. In the interest of safety and sanitation, owners must keep pets leashed and clean up after them.

Hendersonville also has a park specifically for dogs – Pets' Own Place on 7th Avenue. This fenced dog park at 1019 7th Avenue East has separate sections for small and large dogs. The park is located adjacent to the Oklawaha Greenway where it crosses 7th Avenue and has a waste

Throughout Henderson County, there are several other dog parks:

• Jackson Park at 4th Ave. East in Hendersonville features a dog area. Managed by the Henderson County Parks & Recreation Dept., Jackson Park has 220 acres that include many walking trails.

• Bill Moore Community Park in Fletcher includes two fenced-in areas for large dogs and small dogs. Operated by The Town of Fletcher, the park is made up of 75 acres that also include walking trails and access to Cane Creek.

• Mills River Park features a dog park. This 48-acre park also includes a multi-use trail, a handicappedaccessible fishing pier and a launch for non-motorized watercraft such as canoes and kayaks.

EXPLORING STATE PARKS AND NATIONAL FORESTS WITH PETS

Hendersonville is not far from such state parks and forests as DuPont State Recreational Forest , Holmes Educational State Forest and Chimney Rock State Park. Pets

are allowed in North Carolina State Parks and State Forests as long as they are on an attended leash no longer than six feet, are under the constant control of the owner and are kept only on pedestrian trails. Pet owners must pick up after their pet and properly dispose of waste in garbage bins. With the exception of service animals and authorized search and rescue dogs, pets are not allowed in public buildings in state parks or state forests.

Henderson County residents and visitors also enjoy regional hiking and camping with their pets in Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest. Pet owners must crate, cage or restrain their pets on leashes not exceeding six feet or otherwise physically confine their pets at all times. Overnight, pets must be confined to the

NORTH CAROLINA LAW PROTECTS PETS

While it’s not illegal to leave pets in vehicles, doing so has the potential to be hazardous to pets. For the health and safety of animals, North Carolina law allows any animal control officer, animal cruelty investigator, law enforcement officer, firefighter or rescue squad worker who has probable cause to believe an animal is confined in a vehicle under conditions likely to cause suffering, injury or death to enter a vehicle by any reasonable means under the circumstances after trying to locate whomever is responsible for the animal. Conditions that can endanger pets include heat, cold and lack of adequate ventilation. Also, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Department is in charge of handling animal control issues in the county. To report an animal control issue in the county, call 828-697-4912.

St. James Episcopal Church hosts an annual Blessing of the Animals ceremony.

The area’s many parks offer a plethora of ways to enjoy the outdoors with your four-legged friends.

owner’s tent or vehicle during quiet hours. Pets are not permitted in cabins. Pets are not permitted in public buildings in national forests other than service animals accompanying people with physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental challenges. The tasks performed by the animal must be directly related to the person’s disability.

ANIMAL ADOPTIONS, EDUCATION AND MORE

Blue Ridge Humane Society is committed to creating happy homes for every pet.

BRHS cares for pets awaiting adoption at the Adoption Center; works to ensure the highest quality adoption counseling experience for potential adopters; and provides owner support for BRHS adopters and community pet owners, including; low-cost vaccine clinics, pet training classes and behavior consultations and adoption follow-ups. BRHS also takes an active role in community outreach by providing animal and youth education programs and coordinating community pet food assistance, emergency vet assistance and the Spay Neuter

Incentive Program (SNIP), the latter of which is a collaboration with Henderson County, the City of Hendersonville and the Henderson County Animal Services Center. BRHS operates the Blue Ridge Humane Society Thrift Store which provides vital program funding through an upscale shopping experience. A 501(c)3 animal welfare organization, Blue Ridge Humane Society was founded in 1950 and is dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of life for animals in Henderson County and neighboring communities. Learn more at BlueRidgeHumane.org or by calling 828-692-2639.

The Henderson County Animal Services Center provides shelter for adoptable and stray animals and reunites lost pets with their owners. The department keeps records of rabies cases and encourages responsible pet ownership by advocating anti-cruelty measures, keeping pets vaccinated against rabies, and spaying, neutering and microchipping of pets. The Center is at 828 Stoney Mountain Road in Hendersonville. Visit HendersonCountyNC.gov/ AnimalServices or call 828-6974723 for more information.

WHY SHOP AT ACE?

The store was founded by a family with a strong vision for community service. A significant portion of the income generated goes back directly into the community and supports numerous charitable organizations. When making a shopping choice, kindly contemplate supporting a locally owned establishment that prioritizes giving back. Serving customers is seen as a great honor and blessing by Greg and Sheila Paul.

Pets can frolic freely at the dog park at Mills River Park.

Community Resources & Volunteer Opportunities

A strong sense of community is evident in Henderson County by the many charitable, civic, social and religious organizations that offer a range of life-enriching services with the help of many residents who volunteer their time.

AMERICAN RED CROSS

828-697-2513

RedCross.org

The American Red Cross serving Western North Carolina helps neighbors in need by providing shelter, care and hope during disasters; making the community safer through emergency preparedness education; collecting and providing lifesaving blood products; teaching skills that save lives; and supporting military veterans and their families.

BIG

BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF

HENDERSON COUNTY

828-253-1470

BBBSWNC.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Henderson County is one of 18 branches of BBBSWNC, an Asheville-based nonprofit. The organization offers

one-on-one mentoring programs for youth with the assistance of community volunteers. Each year, the nonprofit serves about three dozen young people across Henderson County, partners with local schools and works to build new relationships with the community. New volunteers (Bigs) are always welcomed and appreciated.

BLUE RIDGE

HUMANE SOCIETY

828-692-2639

BlueRidgeHumane.org

A 501(c)3 animal welfare organization, Blue Ridge Humane Society is dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of life for animals in Henderson County and neighboring communities. BRHS cares for pets awaiting adoption at the Adoption Center; works to ensure the highest quality adoption

counseling experience for potential adopters; and provides owner support for BRHS adopters and community pet owners, including low-cost vaccine clinics, pet training classes, behavior consultations and adoption follow-ups. BRHS also takes an active role in community outreach by providing animal and youth education programs and coordinating community pet food assistance, pet loss support, emergency vet assistance and the Spay Neuter Incentive Program (SNIP), the latter of which is a collaboration with Henderson County, the City of Hendersonville and the Henderson County Animal Services Center. BRHS operates the Blue Ridge Humane Society Thrift Store which provides vital program funding through an upscale shopping

continued on page 88

There are many ways to volunteer throughout Hendersonville and Henderson County.

Home is a journey.

You can be the difference for a child. Become a foster parent today.

We need families interested in providing a safe, temporary home for children in foster care. Crossnore will provide training and be there to support you through the foster care licensing process and beyond.

For more information, contact us at FHLicensing@crossnore.org or scan the QR code below to start your application today! crossnore.org

experience.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF HENDERSON COUNTY

828-693-9444

BGCHendersonCo.org

The Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County provides a nurturing and empowering environment for more than 1,200 young individuals annually through after-school and summer programs. These initiatives are designed to foster educational success, career preparedness, community engagement and physical well-being while promoting positive decisionmaking. The club caters to youth aged six to 18 and all encompassing membership, typically $5 per child per year, is currently offered at no cost due to a recent grant.

CAMPLIFY

828-697-2000

CamplifyNC.org

Camplify builds community leaders through a leadership development journey that nurtures local youth for nine years, beginning in the 4th grade when they are nominated by their school counselors and continuing through their high school graduation. Camplify works with area camps and nonprofits to provide high-quality,

year-round experiential education programming that these youth would not have access to otherwise. Through this journey, Camplify helps youth develop the skills they need to thrive and be confident leaders now and as adults.

CHILDREN AND FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

828-698-0674

ChildrenandFamily.org

The Children and Family Resource Center nurtures the development of children by building a strong foundation of family and community. CFRC offers quality child care resources, developmental screenings to prepare children for kindergarten, leadership on children’s issues and 16 programs focused on parent education.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF HENDERSON COUNTY

828-697-6224

CFHCForever.org

The Community Foundation of Henderson County helps people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. Community members and businesses make charitable gifts through the Foundation providing

grants to address community needs, support nonprofit programs and fulfill philanthropic passions. In 2023, the Foundation distributed $5.6 million in grants and scholarships, working on behalf of donors to evaluate organizations, measure impact and advise on local and national philanthropic interests.

CONSERVING CAROLINA

828-697-5777

ConservingCarolina.org

Conserving Carolina is a land trust that protects, restores and inspires appreciation of the natural world. The organization serves Henderson, Polk, Rutherford and Transylvania Counties and parts of neighboring counties. Conserving Carolina has helped protect more than 49,000 acres of natural places from the waterfalls of DuPont State Forest to the rock faces of the Hickory Nut Gorge to the farms and rivers that provide food and clean water.

COUNCIL ON AGING FOR HENDERSON COUNTY

828-692-4203

COAHC.org

For 55 years, the Council on Aging for Henderson County has been providing and coordinating services that engage, connect and support local adults as they age. COAHC strives to ensure that no one ages alone through their service programs: Meals on Wheels, Community Dining, Supplemental Liquid Nutrition, Caregiver Support and Community Resource Coordination. Including a heat-relief assistance program.

CROSSNORE COMMUNITIES FOR CHILDREN

828-301-4622

Crossnore.org

Dedicated to the complex needs of children facing abuse, neglect or other serious risk, Crossnore is a recognized leader in understanding how trauma at home affects the whole child. Crossnore brings clinical expertise and compassionate

Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County supports community youth.

care to children and families through four interconnected resource communities: therapy services, family preservation, foster care and adoption and youth independent living.

HENDERSON COUNTY EDUCATION FOUNDATION

828-697-5551

HCEFNC.org

Founded in 1986, the Henderson County Education Foundation has supported the teachers and students of Henderson County Public Schools by investing in and responding to the whole child and the whole school to create a thriving community. Through the support of donors, events and other fundraising efforts, the Foundation is able to provide funds to principals to meet the dayto-day emergencies and other needs of the most vulnerable children in the district. Additionally, HCEF offers post-secondary scholarships to graduating seniors, provides instructional support for arts and music education, supports HCPS curriculum needs with literacy and STEM and helps introduce and expand Leader in Me, a leadership program that empowers students with 21stcentury leadership and life skills. The Foundation’s flagship event is its annual Education Celebration where outstanding leaders in education are inducted into the Education Hall of Fame.

HENDERSON COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

828-694-0340

Habitat-HVL.org

Henderson County Habitat for Humanity builds homes with families with low incomes who are living in substandard housing, working, can pay an affordable mortgage and are willing to spend “sweat equity” hours helping build their homes alongside Habitat volunteers.

continued on next page

Did you know that in addition to offering emergency overnight shelter to individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness in our community, the Hendersonville Rescue Mission (HRM) specializes in long-term programs that help people overcome barriers to housing and achieve sucess in ramaining housed.

At HRM they believe that structure and accountability are vital to achieving long term success in any endevour. They offer the basics: food, clothing, and a clean, warm bed to sleep in overnight, but their housing readiness program also offers the opportunity for lasting change.

Habitat currently builds 12 to 16 energy-efficient homes each year. Habitat’s Home Preservation and Aging in Place programs help lowincome homeowners and elderly homeowners with repairs to solve health and safety problems so they can continue to live in their homes safely.

HENDERSON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

828-697-4725

HendersonCountyNC.gov/Library

With the main library downtown and five branches throughout the county, the Henderson County Public Library makes available to all county residents a large selection of books, movies and music in both physical and digital formats. Each location offers free Wi-Fi to all visitors and public computer access for those with a card or guest pass. The library offers free engaging programs for all ages including story times, book clubs, computer classes and more. Visit the library’s website for a full calendar of events.

HENDERSONVILLE RESCUE MISSION

828-697-1354

HendersonvilleRescueMission.com

Since 1981, the Hendersonville Rescue Mission has been helping those in need 365 days a year. Serving the hungry, addicted, homeless and poor in Henderson, Polk, Rutherford and Transylvania Counties, HRM offers overnight

shelter, an addiction recovery program, the Good Samaritan Clinic, a Day Center and more. What began from a tailgate more than four decades ago now gives shelter to more than 1,000 people and provides more than 60,000 meals each year from its facility on Maple Street. All services are provided without federal or state funding.

HOPE COALITION

828-388-7979

ElementsOfHope.org

Initiated by the Henderson County Partnership for Health in 2013, Hope Coalition is a community collaborative that works to educate, evaluate and implement evidence-based models on substance misuse and underage drinking in Henderson County. The community is invited to get involved throughout the year and in three annual events – an art auction in partnership with Art on 7th, We Are Hope Week and Jingle Jog 5k/Fun Run. Hope Coalition offers programs and resources including Henderson County Youth Council, a Recovery Community Center, Mental Health & Crisis, Prevention Wellness Resources and more. The Buzz, a specialty non-alcoholic bar and café providing an alcohol-free environment for socializing and events is located at 225 S Grove Street.

HOUSES OF WORSHIP

Henderson County has many houses of worship representing both denominational and nondenominational congregations. Henderson County also is home to two Christian-affiliated conference centers – Bonclarken Conference Center and Kanuga – and Heartwood Refuge, a Buddhist retreat center.

HOUSING ASSISTANCE CORPORATION

828-692-4744

Housing-Assistance.com

A private, non-profit organization, the Housing Assistance Corporation is committed to providing safe and

affordable housing for persons of limited income living in Henderson County and surrounding areas. Housing Assistance Corporation develops single and multi-family affordable housing for qualified individuals and provides health and safety home repairs for the disabled, elderly and qualified Medicaid recipients. Individuals can work with on-staff counselors to qualify for its various housing programs.

INTERFAITH ASSISTANCE MINISTRY

828-697-7029

IAM-HC.org

Founded in 1984, Interfaith Assistance Ministry (IAM) is the largest nonprofit provider of crisis services in Henderson County. IAM provides free assistance with vital basic needs to Henderson County residents who are experiencing a financial crisis or an ongoing crisis. In 2023, IAM provided 83,974 service touches to 18,846 unduplicated individuals. Many children and adults received assistance more than once. IAM provides services from 9AM – 4PM, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, extended hours from 9AM – 5:30 on Tuesdays and from 9AM –1PM on Friday. Crisis services include a week’s worth of groceries for every family member, personal care items such as diapers and feminine products, pet food, clothing in all sizes, sheets, blankets, towels, pillows, financial assistance with rent to prevent new homelessness, utility bills, prescriptions and gasoline vouchers. IAM also serves homeless residents with tents, sleeping bags and other supplies. The agency also provides required clothing needed for working women and men to help them accept betterpaying jobs. Budget counseling, referrals to other helping nonprofits and information about job openings is also provided. IAM’s Mobile Pantry travels to locations around the county to distribute nutritious food to underserved individuals, and participates in the Healthy

continued on page 92

Camplify offers experiential opportunities for area youth.

Seniors over 60 - Medicare -

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Opportunities Pilot to provide healthy food, prescribed by physicians and nurses, to Medicaid patients. The IAM Thrift Store, located behind IAM’s crisis services facility at 119 Jack St., is open from 9AM – 5PM Tuesday through Saturday to help sustain the nonprofit.

LITERACY CONNECTION

828-696-381

LitConnection.org

Literacy Connection transforms lives by cultivating literacy skills that promote economic and social success. Volunteer tutors work directly with adult learners to increase their basic literacy skills, learn English as a Second Language, prepare for the US citizenship exam, obtain a GED or reach job-related goals such as promotions, raises and career changes with improved work literacy. Additionally, Literacy Connection provides literacy support to at-risk youth ages 1118 and offers “Opening Doors,” a family literacy and kindergarten readiness program to mothers of preschoolers. Other programs like Health Literacy and Digital Literacy serve the senior population.

SAFELIGHT

24/7 Crisis Line: 828-693-3840

SafelightFamily.org

Safelight is a comprehensive nonprofit serving all survivors of violence, abuse and exploitation. They offer a continuum of services that help individuals move from crisis to sustainability. Safelight’s services include a 24/7 crisis hotline; an emergency shelter for survivors; a counseling center with individual and support group services; an accredited child advocacy center performing child medical exams and forensic interviews; a family advocacy center offering legal, law enforcement and medical advocacy and support; community engagement focused on long term employment and financial security with onsite safe paid job training and an outreach program for prevention and education in the community. Safelight is committed to breaking cycles of abuse and creating hope within Henderson County.

SMART START PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN

828-693-1580

SmartStartPFC.org

Smart Start Partnership for Children has been serving families with young children ages 0-5 in Henderson County since 1998. With the mission

NC 2-1-1

NC 2-1-1 is a health and human services information and referral service administered by United Way of North Carolina and supported by local United Ways and public and private partners across the state. North Carolina residents in all 100 counties can get connected to a database of more than 13,000 verified resources by dialing 2-1-1 (or 1-888-892-1162) or by visiting NC211.org. This service is free, confidential, multilingual, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

to support, educate and advocate to build a strong foundation for the youngest members of the community, the organization works toward a vision where every family in Henderson County has equitable access to opportunities and resources so that all children in Henderson County can reach their full potential. Smart Start focuses on improving the availability and accessibility of high-quality early childhood education, improving the quality of care that all young children receive in licensed child care centers, providing the tools and resources parents need to support the health development of their children, building community resilience, early literacy efforts and community education. The work of Smart Start Partnership for Children is grounded in a commitment to diversity & inclusion, equity, cultural humility, resiliency and community partnerships.

THE STOREHOUSE

828-692-8300

StorehouseOnline.org

Formed in 2000, The Storehouse is a Christ-centered nonprofit organization in Henderson County dedicated to addressing food insecurity with compassion and dignity. The nonprofit provides continued on page 94

Children enjoy reading time with SmartStart Partnership for Children.

essential items such as food, hygiene products, clothing and pet food to individuals and families in need. Collaborating with churches, charities and local government, they serve approximately 385 households monthly. Additionally, the Senior Delivery program extends support to 63 homebound elderly individuals. During the holiday season, The Storehouse partners with Henderson County Public Schools for their Blessings in Boxes program – a community wide partnership serving 2,005 local school children from 725 families.

UNITED WAY OF HENDERSON COUNTY

828-692-1636

LiveUnitedHC.org

United Way of Henderson County (UWHC) fights for the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of everyone in our community. UWHC has been a

trusted and impactful community resource in Henderson County for over 70 years with work made possible thanks to longstanding partnerships and support. Together, UWHC is able to help provide over 35,000 services to Henderson County neighbors each year. There are many ways to get involved, and everyone is invited to share their time, talent and treasure to help make the entire community a brighter place.

VOCATIONAL SOLUTIONS OF HENDERSON COUNTY

828-692-9626

VocSol.com

Vocational Solutions of Henderson County, which has served the community since 1967, provides career and life skills training for adults with disabilities or vocational barriers to employment. Clients participate in academic classes, training to promote independent

TOGETHER

living, community-inclusive activities and work projects provided by local business partners.

WNCSOURCE

828-693-1711

WNCSource.org

For more than 55 years, WNCSource has been providing Western North Carolinians with programs and services to help them reach their potential and become self-sufficient, contributing members of the community. Programs include early childhood education, affordable housing assistance, communitywide transportation and healthy living services for older adults. Headquartered in Hendersonville, WNCSource works independently and in collaboration with its network of community partners to deliver essential programs and services to low-income and underserved residents of Henderson, Transylvania, Rutherford and Polk Counties.

CIVIC CLUBS

Henderson County has multiple civic clubs for community members to connect and work together on volunteer efforts. Check with the individual clubs to confirm meeting times and locations.

KIWANIS INTERNATIONAL

HENDERSONVILLE KIWANIS CLUB

HendersonvilleKiwanis.org

The Hendersonville Kiwanis Club, which is more than 100 years old, meets at 11:45AM the second and fourth Thursdays at Grace Lutheran Church at 1245 6th Avenue West in Hendersonville and at 5:30PM the first and third Thursdays at changing locations. Special events are planned on the fifth Thursdays.

LIONS CLUBS

INTERNATIONAL

EDNEYVILLE COMMUNITY LIONS CLUB

E-Clubhouse.org/Sites/EdneyvilleCommunity

The Edneyville Community Lions Club meets the second and fourth

Mondays of each month at the Southern Trust Estate and Auction Company at 1050 7th Avenue E in Hendersonville.

ETOWAH LIONS CLUB

828-891-3071

Facebook.com/EtowahLionsClub

The Lions Club in Etowah meets at the Etowah Lions Den at 447 Etowah School Road the second and fourth Tuesday at 6:30PM, and offers a Farmers Market on Wednesdays from May through October from 3 to 6PM. New members are always welcome.

HENDERSONVILLE LIONS CLUB

E-Clubhouse.org/Sites/Hendersonville

The Hendersonville Lions Club meets the first and third Fridays in the Henderson County Parks and Rec offices, 708 S. Grove St., at 12:30PM. Email Hendersonville. NC.Lions.Club@gmail.com for more information.

MILLS RIVER LIONS CLUB

828-890-1817

Facebook.com/Lions-Club-of-MillsRiver-549247121776222

The Mills River Lions Club meets at 7:45AM the first and third Fridays of the month at the Mills River Community Center.

MOUNTAIN HOME LIONS CLUB

E-Clubhouse.org/Sites/MountainHomepa

Chartered in 1979, the Mountain Home Lions Club meets at 6PM the third Thursday of the month at Bay Breeze Seafood Restaurant at 1830 Asheville Highway in Hendersonville.

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL

ROTARY CLUB OF HENDERSONVILLE RotaryClubofHendersonville.com

The Rotary Club of Hendersonville meets at noon on Tuesdays at Grace Lutheran Church at 1245 6th Ave. W in Hendersonville.

ROTARY CLUB OF HENDERSONVILLE-FOUR SEASONS

FourSeasonsRotary.org

The Hendersonville-Four Seasons Rotary Club meets at 5:30 PM on Mondays at Janitzio Mexican Restaurant at 1053 Spartanburg Highway in Hendersonville.

TOASTMASTERS

INTERNATIONAL

FOUR SEASONS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

4Seasons.ToastmastersClubs.org

The Four Seasons Toastmasters Club holds a hybrid meeting at 8AM on Fridays by Zoom and in person at Trinity Presbyterian Church on Blythe Street in Hendersonville. Email StanCoss2@gmail.com for Zoom meeting ID.

Hendersonville Lions Club

Find Your Dream Home

From stately colonials and comfortable ranches to contemporary and custom designs to log cabins and more, Henderson County offers anyone looking for their dream home a variety of choices. Homes can be found in downtown neighborhoods, wooded natural settings, rural areas and perched high on mountainsides with breathtaking views.

Some choice residential communities are designed to permanently preserve the natural beauty of the land and the greenness of the area. Many communities in the area have active homeowners associations that organize social, recreational and educational activities for residents. For communities specifically designed for retirement or adults at least 55 or older, see Your Retirement Your Way on page 130.

HIGHLAND LAKE VILLAGE is located on 200 acres, two miles from downtown Flat Rock. Four distinct neighborhoods offer

primary or secondary homes, vacation rental homes and immediate occupancy resale homes with on-site real estate and property management. Recognized as one of the Top Ten Most Walkable Communities in America and recipient of the National Association of Homebuilders “Best in American Living” Award, there are sidewalks, miles of walking trails, open green spaces and proximity to The Park at Flat Rock.

For those who prefer their green spaces in the form of a golf course or enjoy the country club lifestyle, Henderson County offers premier golfing communities.

CHAMPION HILLS is a top-ranked, year-round golf club located just 5 miles from downtown Hendersonville. Here, you’ll find life’s perfect balance set against the breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains whether you’re looking for a seasonal mountain retreat or full-time residence. An attractive range of homes priced from $700,000 are thoughtfully crafted with nature in mind and better living at heart. You’ll also find a variety of lots for those who prefer to build their dream home. At the heart of the community is Champion

continued on page 98

Champion Hills is a top-ranked golf community.

Hills Club, which offers a nationally ranked Tom Fazio championship golf course, award-winning Wellness Center, exceptional dining and more.

CUMMINGS COVE is a gated golf community just eight miles west of downtown. Located on more than 650 acres, Cummings Cove offers a diverse selection of homes, villas and cottages. The Mountain Top section has homesites with see-forever

villas afford scenic golf vistas with a wooded mountain backdrop. The sports complex includes a fitness center with a pool, hot tub spa and three joint-friendly tennis courts in addition to the clubhouse with restaurant and golf shop.

KENMURE is a gated golf community located just four miles from downtown in Flat Rock. A historic antebellum mansion serves as a

TURNING ON YOUR HOME

ELECTRICITY

Duke Energy

Duke-Energy.com For Customer Service: 800-777-9898 To Report Trouble: 800-POWERON (800-769-3766)

GAS

Dominion Energy DominionEnergy.com/ North-Carolina-Gas/ Start-Stop-Service For Customer Service or to Report Trouble: 877-776-2427

WATER/SEWER

Hendersonville

HendersonvilleNC.gov/ Customer-Service/ Starting-Water-Sewer-Service For New Service: Apply online or in person. Call 828-697-3052 or visit website for details.

To Report: 828-697-3073 (During business hours of 8AM to 5PM on weekdays) 828-891-7779 (After hours, weekends and holidays)

Residents also enjoy indoor and outdoor heated pools, hard and soft-surface tennis courts and a fitness center. The community offers homesites for custom singlefamily homes, freestanding villas, condominiums and new mountain craftsman cottages.

GREAT RECREATIONAL AMENITIES ARE NOT EXCLUSIVE TO GOLF COMMUNITIES.

VISTA AT BLACKSMITH RUN, located just five miles east of I-26 on Chimney Rock Road, has striking long-range views while situated on rolling hills, making walking easy and gardening a pleasure. This gated community offers a clubhouse, pool, fitness room and fishing pier.

Cummings Cove golf community offers panoramic views.

Custom Homes in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Dreaming about building your own home?

Building a custom home takes experience, attention to detail, and an ability to match a home buyer’s vision.

Vista Home Builders uses our years of experience and our expertise in home design to ensure your custom home will be exactly what you’ve been searching for. Review our plans or bring us your own. We can provide a customized experience and budget to get you on your way to making your dream a reality.

Learn more about Vista Home Builders and what we can offer that other custom home builders just can’t match.

HENDERSON COUNTY’S POPULAR HOME MARKET OFFERS A RANGE OF HOUSING OPTIONS

Henderson County is a popular housing market that offers a variety of options ranging from tiny homes and condominiums to older houses in established, historic neighborhoods and new custombuilt homes.

People searching for a new home in the county find a range of choices, including homes for sale in a robust market.

According to the Hendersonville Board of Realtors, the median sales price of homes in Henderson County was $440,000, trending up 14.6% from 2022. For Hendersonville, the median list price was $425,000, up

VISTA AT BILL’S MOUNTAIN, located in nearby Lake Lure, has similar amenities and great views. Choose a homesite or one of the lowmaintenance craftsman-style homes. This sampling of communities shows that Hendersonville and surrounding Henderson County offer numerous choices in housing and neighborhoods. To learn more, visit the Hendersonville Board of Realtors® website at HBOR-NC.com and enlist the services of one of Henderson County’s many real estate agents. Both national and local agencies are here, fully licensed with both buyer brokers and selling brokers.

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Kenmure is a gated golf community located just four miles from downtown in Flat Rock.

The Druid Hills Historic District was established in 1923 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

14.9% from 2022. This data is based upon a rolling 12 months of data, ending March 2023.

For March 2023, home inventory in Henderson County was up 4.5% annually. The months’ supply was 1.7 months, referring to the number of months it would take for the current inventory of homes on the market to sell. This supply amount is up 30.77% annually, compared to a rate of 1.3 months’ supply in March of 2022.

In addition to modern subdivisions and developments, the City of Hendersonville has historic residential districts like Cold Spring Park, Druid HIlls, Hyman Heights, Lenox Park and the West Side. Many were some of the first planned neighborhoods in the region with beginnings that date back to the start of the 20th century, according to the Hendersonville Historic

Preservation Commission. Learn more at HendersonvilleHPC.org.

In Henderson County outside of Hendersonville, the Village of Flat Rock and the Towns of Fletcher, Laurel Park and Mills River also each have a unique sense of place and way of life with different residential options. Learn more about each of these communities on pages 34-42.

Henderson County shares borders with Buncombe, Polk, Rutherford and Transylvania Counties, too, where even more home choices abound, many of which are within a reasonable commute time to Hendersonville.

Additionally, The Real Estate Book of Asheville/Hendersonville is a local resource for finding real estate agents and properties in Henderson County and surrounding areas. Local REALTORS™ in the area can be found at HendersonvilleMagazine.com/ Real_Estate.

Looking to buy, sell, rent, build, decorate or furnish a home? Then turn to Hulsey Media, Inc.’s suite of helpful housing publications which are available for free both online and in print throughout the area.

REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION

ALICE COCHRAN Broker Associate

Alice has spent over 40 years of her life helping people fulfill their dream of homeownership. Every client of her's is special and she cherishes all the friends she has made through real estate. She is a native of Henderson County and has witnessed the town grow into a diverse community offering an exceptional way of life. Alice works tirelessly to provide her clients with the most positive experience possible. From purchasing your first home to selling your retirement home, Alice looks forward to serving you and providing you and your family with superior customer service!

130 S Main Street, Suite B

Hendersonville

828-329-3935

AliceCochran@bhhslp.com

HomesInHendersonville.com

CARRIE ANN CHANDLER Realtor® with EXP Realty LLC

Greeting the community and her clients with Hello Friends! she has the mission to help folks from all walks of life with their real estate needs in Western North Carolina. Carrie Ann fulfills this mission with compassion and professionalism. She serves all of Western North Carolina. Carrie Ann has a unique connection to the area spending most of her summers here as a young girl. She will help you explore the community and surrounding towns.

Hendersonville

Give her a call today! 828-674-3492

Learn more about Carrie Ann by visiting her website https://linktr.ee/hellofriendscarrieann

EAGLE SELF STORAGE Climate Controlled Specialists

Seek out the most reliable storage solution in the Hendersonville / Flat Rock area. You’ll gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your belongings are secure and are well protected by state-of-the-art cameras, fencing, and alarm systems. They are now offering RV/Jumbo/Boat enclosed storage in a well-lighted, fenced lot with key-pad access. Climate controlled storage for sensitive belongings is available. Eagle Self Storage is locally owned and has friendly onsite staff.

Mon - Sat 9AM - 5PM

2310 Asheville Hwy | Hendersonville

828-489-3263

WNCEagleSelfStorage.com

HAYWOOD COTTAGE SHORT-TERM RENTALS

Haywood Cottage offers short-term rentals and long-term stays. Units are fully furnished and include all utilities and internet service. Perfect solution for those who need a place to live after selling their home, just moved to town and are looking for a permanent residence, or are building/ remodeling a home. Conveniently located one mile north of downtown Hendersonville with easy access to I-26 and the Asheville Regional Airport.

828-290-7812

rentals@haywoodcottage.com

HaywoodCottage.com

RENTWNC

Whether you are an owner looking for a comprehensive residential property management company or a prospective tenant looking for a place to call home, RentWNC and owner Clay Rainey have you covered. RentWNC has over 27 years of experience and an extensive knowledge of western North Carolina. We enjoy what we do almost as much as the region and people we work with daily. We are committed to utilizing our knowledge of the western North Carolina residential rental market to the benefit of all of our clients. At RentWNC we strive to provide top quality property management and leasing services for owners and tenants alike.

2720 Greenville Highway | Flat Rock 828-372-0200

clay@landmllc.com

WNC MOUNTAIN RENTALS, LLC

Vacation / Short-term Rental Property Management

Dan Fortin and Julie Hall are Hospitality Professionals serving Henderson County. They understand what makes a property special for the guests they serve, whether for a vacation or a short-term stay. Their years of experience has taught them what it takes to run a successful Vacation Rental Management company; clear communication with owners, and personalized service to each and every guest. Many of their fully furnished and equipped properties are also available for 30-day increments for folks relocating or between homes in the area. Dan and Julie welcome you to call today to book your reservation, or to talk about their property management services and the systems they have in place to ensure your success.

828-393-3035

Info@WNCMountainRentals.com WNCMountainRentals.com

Excellent Schools for All Ages

Whether you’re looking into schools for your children or are thinking of going back to school yourself, Henderson County and the surrounding area offer a variety of educational opportunities.

PRESCHOOLS

Parents with small children will find numerous choices when it comes to child care and preschools. Many churches offer weekday programs and private and publicly funded child care centers operate throughout the county. For more information and a current list of child care options in Henderson County, contact Mountain Child Care Connections at SWCDCINC.org/ Quality-Childcare, call the toll-free

hotline at 877-752-5955 or visit the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education at NCChildcare. NCDHHS.gov/ChildCareSearch.

HENDERSON COUNTY

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

828-697-4733

HCPSNC.org

Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) consists of 23 schools – four high, four middle, 13 elementary, the Henderson County Career Academy and the Henderson County Early College.

The Career Academy and the Early College (together, the Innovative High Schools) are housed in the Molly A. Parkhill Building on the Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC) campus. The Career Academy offers high school students pursuing direct, specific career goals academies plus access to all the technical career pathways through BRCC. The Early College gives many first-generation college students the opportunity to complete high school and college coursework through BRCC in five

continued on page 110

Fernleaf Community Charter School offers many outdoor opportunities for students.

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years and graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree.

HCPS offers Career & Technical Education pathways that provide students with opportunities for higher education and paid apprenticeships in collaboration with local college, university and industry partners.

Consistently ranked as one of the highest performing school districts in the state, HCPS excels in overall proficiency and boasts high 4-year cohort graduation rates that surpass the North Carolina average. The district prides itself on its 192 National Board Certified Teachers and its recognition as a “Schools to Watch® District” by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform. Additionally, 13 schools within HCPS implement Franklin Covey’s The Leader in Me schoolwide model, fostering leadership skills among students.

In addition to its academic achievements, HCPS prides itself on its award-winning visual, musical and performing arts programs, offering students opportunities for creative expression and personal development. HCPS also places a strong emphasis on student health and safety. Through a dedicated network of nurses, psychologists, social workers, counselors, school resource officers and specialists, HCPS prioritizes the well-being of its students. The district also supports families through its Migrant

Education Program, recognized as the best in the state in 2023, ensuring access to quality education and support services for migrant students and their families.

PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

Henderson County also has two public, tuition-free charter schools – FernLeaf Community Charter School in Fletcher and The Mountain Community School in Hendersonville.

FERNLEAF COMMUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL

FernLeaf Community Charter School is a K-12 public charter school located in Fletcher. FernLeaf uses experiential, project based and hands-on learning techniques with an emphasis on environmental education that engages students and helps them develop into compassionate, curious and thoughtful human beings as they grow and achieve academically. For more information, call 828-6843645, email Info@FernLeafCCS.org or visit FernLeafCCS.org.

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

The Mountain Community School’s mission is to honor individuality and diversity, nurture respect for self and others and foster a lifelong love of learning.

The Mountain Community School is a charter school that offers a rigorous curricular experience based on an expeditionary model of learning in grades K-8. For more information, call 828-696-8480 or visit TheMountainCommunitySchool.com.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

In addition to public schools, Henderson County has five private schools.

CAPTAIN GILMER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL AND FLETCHER ACADEMY

Captain Gilmer Christian School in Fletcher offers excellence in academics while maintaining strong Biblical roots. CGCS is a Pre-K through 8th grade campus that serves as the primary and middle school for Fletcher Academy. The Academy provides a general college preparatory work/study program for day students and boarding students in grades 9 to 12. Both schools are a supporting ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. For more information, call Captain Gilmer Christian School at 828-6848221 or visit CaptainGilmer.org, or call Fletcher Academy at 828-2096800 or visit FletcherAcademy.org.

Veritas Christian Academy student explores a local creek.

Immaculata Catholic School provides academic and religious instruction.

IMAGO DEI CLASSICAL ACADEMY

Imago Dei Classical Academy is a classical Christian school in Mills River that seeks to glorify God by teaching students, parents and staff to think clearly, listen with discernment and understanding, reason persuasively and articulate precisely. For more information, call 828-513-4966 or visit IDCANC.org.

IMMACULATA CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville provides academic and religious instruction for preschool through 8th grade, integrating Roman Catholic tradition into a comprehensive instructional program. For more information, call 828-693-3277 or visit IMMAC.org.

VERITAS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Veritas Christian Academy in Fletcher is an independent, co-educational, PreK-12, college preparatory school with an educational culture built on the classical Trivium and Christianity. Veritas enters its 26th year and has been newly accredited by the Association of Classical Christian Schools. Veritas’ academic program is enhanced by a common and fine arts program, a center for nature studies, an athletics department and an assortment of electives and extracurricular activities. For more information, call 828-681-0546 or visit VeritasNC.org.

WILD OAK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

Wild Oak Independent School is a unique school community intentionally designed to engage Preschool through 5th graders in a relationship with learning that will support their curiosity, creativity, growth and development. The school places a large focus on social and emotional health which allows students to manage peer relationships and potential

conflicts in a positive, healthy manner. In addition, Wild Oak offers low student-teacher ratios in multi-age classrooms and an integrated, real-world, hands-on curriculum. For more information, visit WildOakSchool.org or email Info@WildOakSchool.org.

HOMESCHOOLING

Homeschooling is also an option for North Carolina parents and children. Resources include:

• Classical Scholars in Mills River which supports homeschooling parents with a unique classroom environment and opportunities to foster leadership: ClassicalScholarsHomeschool.com

• Henderson County Homeschool Association: Homeschool-Life. com/NC/HCHA

• NC Department of Administration: NCAdmin.NC.gov/Citizens/HomeSchool-Information

• North Carolinians for Home Education: NCHE.com

HIGHER EDUCATION

BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

828-694-1700

BlueRidge.edu

Blue Ridge Community College is a two-year post-secondary institution that prepares students of all ages for success in today’s workforce or at four-year colleges and universities. With campuses in Henderson and Transylvania Counties, the college offers more than 200 degrees, diplomas and certificates in 30 areas of study; more than 200 online courses; veterans services; support for small businesses; apprenticeships; job placement services through NCWorks; one of the largest continuing education programs in the state and fasttracked job training.

Blue Ridge also breaks down financial barriers to higher education through its Educational Foundation

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Henderson County Public Schools serve more than 13,500 children ages five to 18.

which offers more than 200 local scholarship opportunities each year. Graduates are eligible to transfer credits and continue their education at any of North Carolina’s 18 public colleges and universities. The College’s faculty craft programs that provide real-life practice meet the needs of area employers and lead to well-paying careers. Through its comprehensive program and service options, Blue Ridge Community College offers an elevated higher education experience that helps students achieve their professional goals while strengthening the community.

FRUITLAND BAPTIST

BIBLE

COLLEGE

828-685-8886

Fruitland.edu

Established in 1946, the purpose of Fruitland Baptist Bible College’s educational programs is to equip the next generation of Christian leaders to become thinkers who think with a Biblical worldview and serve with a compassionate heart just as Christ served others. FBBC offers an Associate Degree in Religion/ Christian Ministries. The College

also partners with The College at Southeastern to offer an accredited Bachelor of Arts degree. FBBC is a member of the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities and Fruitland is a ministry of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina.

WINGATE UNIVERSITY

HENDERSONVILLE

828-697-0105

Wingate.edu/Academics/Hendersonville

Wingate University’s Hendersonville campus offers a fully accredited Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D) program and Masters of Physician Assistant (PA) studies. Both programs emphasize small classes, a student-centered environment, service to the community and reallife experiences in problem-solving and application of skills. Wingate University School of Pharmacy graduates engage in more than 2,150 hours of pharmacy practice experience in hospitals, community pharmacies and medical clinics.

The PA Studies program partners with local hospitals and healthcare providers to prepare well-educated, ethical and skilled physician assistants.

Wingate University’s healtheducation facility located next to Pardee UNC Health Care is a joint venture of Wingate, Henderson County, the City of Hendersonville, Blue Ridge Community College and UNC Health Pardee.

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA

ASHEVILLE

828-251-6600

UNCA.edu

As North Carolina’s premier public liberal arts and sciences university –and one of the top-10 in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report – the University of North Carolina Asheville prides itself on being an exceptionally close-knit learning community engaged in bold exploration, courageous creativity and innovative thinking. The focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills is part of a commitment to a way of learning that leads to discovery of real-world solutions to pressing local and global issues, whatever the chosen major and field of study of students.

Award-winning faculty, a nationally acclaimed undergraduate research program and small class sizes foster connections between curiosity and critical thinking, courage and challenge, imagination and impact, opportunity and responsibility.

Learning at UNC Asheville extends well beyond classroom walls, focusing on undergraduate studies to prepare the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals through faculty-mentored research projects, career-related internships, study-abroad experiences and service projects that make an impact at home and around the world.

UNC Asheville is home to 3,000 undergraduate students with more than 65 academic offerings, 16 NCAA Division I athletic teams and an award-winning, internationally known Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

University of North Carolina Asheville is a liberal arts and sciences university.

From Babies

The Perfect Climate For Growing Businesses

With its diverse economic sectors, strong workforce and entrepreneurial spirit, Henderson County is not only a place where retirees enjoy the fruits of their labor, but also where new businesses take root and well-established industries thrive.

As with many rural areas, the education and healthcare sectors are top employers. Independent stores in bustling downtown Hendersonville and throughout the county make the retail sector robust. Retiree wealth helps bring strength to the financial and professional services sector. Agriculture, manufacturing and tourism remain cornerstones of Henderson County’s economy as the burgeoning craft beverages industry here also continues to flourish.

AGRICULTURE

Since William Mills planted his first apple tree in the Fruitland area of Henderson County at the end of the 18th century, agriculture has been a staple of Henderson County’s economy. Apples are still king here

with the county being ranked first in apple production in all of North Carolina, growing up to 80% of the state’s entire apple crop on more than 150 orchards in Henderson County. Having that many apples to manage also has spawned other related ventures such as packing houses, traditional and hard cider producers and many roadside stands.

In addition to apples, berry production is increasing in Henderson County and the area is becoming known for grape production for wine. Local farms also produce a wide variety of field crops, nursery and sod crops, as well as beef cattle and other livestock.

In recent years, “agri-tourism” has added to this sector’s bottom

line. Farmers markets, “u-pick” operations, hayrides, farm tours and tasting rooms can all be found in Henderson County. For more about farmers markets in Henderson County, turn to page 58.

With the popularity of locally grown foods, agri-tourism and craft beverages, agriculture here has become even more significant. Today, about 455 farms with an average size of 90 acres operate within the county, representing approximately 20% of Henderson County’s economy.

To help ensure that agriculture remains a growing sector in the local economy, Agribusiness Henderson County assists new and existing producers in their agricultural pursuits. This public and privately

Production employee with a Henderson County manufacturing company.

funded nonprofit also operates the Southern Mountain Fresh Program, which brings the public and locally grown food together. At SouthernMountainFresh.com, people can find out what’s in season in Henderson County and where to buy it. The website also publicizes area agriculture events and is a resource for agri-tourism opportunities. The Blue Ridge Farm Direct Market Association also offers information about farms as well as what crops are in season at NCApples.com.

CRAFT BEVERAGES

The county’s first craft brewer opened its operation downtown off 7th Avenue in Hendersonville in 2011. The next year, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company announced Mills River as the site of their East Coast operation and began brewing and distributing in 2014. During the same period, several commercial vineyards opened wineries in the county, and small hard cider producers followed shortly thereafter.

In 2015, Bold Rock Hard Cider chose Henderson County for the site of its third facility, its first outside Virginia. Using apples grown in Henderson County as the foundation for its ciders, Bold Rock crafts a range of ciders including seasonal varieties at its facility in Mills River.

The craft beverage sector has added jobs, revenue and energy to the local economy. Sierra Nevada alone invested more than $107.5 million in Henderson County within its first five years of operation. Blue Ridge Community College offers a brewing program with courses in brewing, distillation and fermentation and related coursework in safety and sanitation, applied craft beverage microbiology, agriculture, marketing and management to ensure a skilled workforce for this thriving local industry. Thanks to tasting rooms, special events and tours, visitors have even more reason to visit Henderson County. Learn more

about local breweries, wineries, cideries and places that make mead at VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/ Cheers-Trail and through the Ale Trail on page 46 and at AshevilleAleTrail.com.

MANUFACTURING

Henderson County is home to a strategic manufacturing cluster that creates products vital to such sectors as the automotive, outdoor recreation, food and beverage, metalworking and plastics sectors. Today, 140 manufacturers operate facilities in Henderson County and employ more than 5,500 people in the county’s workforce with average wages in excess of $65,000 a year.

Longtime local manufacturers include Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Berkeley Mills which has roots in Henderson County going

back to the 1920s when KimberlyClark was first established as a paper and newsprint company. KimberlyClark is now a billion-dollar company with global family care and personal care brands that include Huggies®, Kleenex®, Scott®, Cottonelle® and Kotex®.

Manufacturing thrives in the county thanks to a strong focus on resources that support success. These assets include transportation access, infrastructure and workforce advantages. Being situated at the crossroads of I-26 and I-40 makes it easy to move raw materials and finished goods. Air transport and commercial air services provided by the Asheville Regional Airport and Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport ensure people and products move efficiently around the world.

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Kimberly-Clark's well known family care and personal care brands hold the #1 or #2 share position in 80 countries. Fueled by ingenuity, creativity, and an understanding of people’s most essential needs, we create products that help individuals experience more of what’s important to them.

In Henderson County, the Berkeley Mill is an ISO Certified work location with approximately 350 people. It contains 7 Nonwoven Base Machines and operates on a 24/7 production schedule. The site ships products to other Kimberly-Clark plants to convert and export other materials to other countries.

RETIREMENT

Boasting both rural and urban settings, high numbers of doctors offices and recreation opportunities as well as a plethora of retirement facilities, Henderson County has long been a popular living choice for retirees. A recent study by

SmartAsset ranked Hendersonville the best place to retire in the state of North Carolina. With 48% of the county’s population over the age of 50, retirees bring a significant impact to the economy. Of the county’s households, 25.9% earn retirement income and 38.1% earn Social Security income. Flat Rock ranked the 19th highest retirement

income per household out of 722 NC towns at $42,096 annually, nearly double Henderson County’s average annual income of $25,617. As retirees frequent local businesses, this population sector helps drive the county’s economy.

SUMMER CAMPS

Generations of summer campers have flocked to Henderson County for decades, making the residential summer camp industry here a sizable contributor to the tourism economy. Henderson County is part of a threecounty region including Buncombe and Transylvania Counties that has the greatest concentration of camps in the United States. Twenty of those camps are in Henderson County and several of those have been in continuous operation since the 1920s. According to a 2020 study by NC State University, Henderson County’s residential summer camps have a direct economic impact on the county of $50 million and a total economic impact of $70 million. These camps create more than 2,278 full-time equivalent jobs, and families dropping off and picking up campers spend an average of more than $2,687 during their stays in Henderson County. For more about area camps, visit the North Carolina Youth Camp Association at NCCamps.org.

TOURISM

Henderson County attracts visitors at all times of the year, resulting in an ongoing economic impact from the tourism sector. Visitor spending in Henderson County in 2022 amounted to $413.32 million, an impact including $130.37 million in food and beverage, $97.62 million in lodging and $56.39 million in recreation. The industry supported 2,603 tourism-related jobs for the county in 2022.

Business Resources

Whether you are starting a new business or growing an existing one, Henderson County has plenty of resources that can help.

HENDERSON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

204 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville 828-692-1413

HendersonCountyChamber.org

Serving Henderson County since 1911, the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce welcomes all types and sizes of businesses from sole proprietorships to major industry. Its activities, supported by membership dues, influence all segments of community development, education, transportation, relocation, retirement, agriculture and small business. The Chamber advocates for business through public policy and new business recruitment and by providing member businesses with opportunities to network, learn and succeed.

HENDERSON COUNTY PARTNERSHIP FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

330 N King Street, Hendersonville 828-692-6373

HCPED.org

The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development (HCPED) is a public/private partnership that focuses on economic stewardship in Henderson County. The mission of the Partnership is to create and retain quality jobs and increase industrial capital investments that will improve the quality of life for Henderson County residents.

HCPED serves as an advocate and resource partner to local businesses and has a legacy of meeting industry needs and making community connections to create a thriving, business friendly community. Through the Made in Henderson County (MIHC) initiative, the Partnership works closely with industry and the local school system and community college to create a workforce pipeline by raising the visibility of manufacturing careers. The flagship program, available to all Henderson County working adults, is the Made in Henderson County Apprenticeship. Learn more at MadeinHendersonCounty.com.

The Partnership also develops a robust marketing calendar to recruit like-minded companies to the area. In 2020, its Target Market Analysis unveiled that manufacturing companies focusing on the following are ideal industries in Henderson County: health care, food and beverage, machinery and materials, professional and technical services, outdoor recreational goods and transportation components.

To successfully market the county, HCPED collaborates with organizations including the regional economic development marketing organization Carolina West, the Economic Development Partnership of NC and NC

Department of Commerce.

Henderson County is a profitable and attractive community that is also an exceptional part of the country for businesses wishing to relocate or expand.

The Partnership works closely with local government, community organizations, local educators and utility/infrastructure partners to accomplish its mission. HCPED fosters relationships among all parties involved in helping the local workforce and economy thrive.

MOUNTAIN BIZWORKS

828-253-2834

MountainBizworks.org

Mountain BizWorks is a US Treasurycertified nonprofit community development financial institution (CDFI). For 35 years, Mountain BizWorks has been making business loans ranging from $1,000 to $500,000 to small businesses in Western North Carolina who may find it difficult to secure funding from banks and other traditional sources. What makes Mountain BizWorks unique is that all loan decisions and relationships are managed locally. The organization works to ensure its clients’ success by offering highly customized, peer-to-peer business coaching by an extensive network

The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce is located on the corner of Church Street and Kanuga Road.

of local, successful business owners. This innovative blend of lending and learning helps entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and grow strategically. Mountain BizWorks serves the 26 westernmost counties of North Carolina – including Henderson County – with offices in Asheville and Boone.

SCORE WESTERN NCHENDERSONVILLE OFFICE

By appointment only at Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, 204 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville 828-693-8702

WesternNC.SCORE.org

SCORE has been mentoring new and existing businesses nationwide since 1964 and has a network of more than 13,000 volunteers who donate their time to help entrepreneurs. As experienced business professionals, SCORE mentors deliver valuable, timely and practical advice free and confidentially. SCORE Western

North Carolina serves eight counties in southwest North Carolina, including Henderson County. A variety of blogs, webinars, and courses for businesses at a variety of stages are offered online for free. One-on-one and team counseling sessions are by appointment. Volunteer opportunities for seasoned business owners in mentor positions are also available. To sign up for counseling, go to SCORE.org and go to “Find a Mentor”.

SMALL BUSINESS CENTER AT BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Henderson County Campus, 180 W Campus Drive, Flat Rock 828-694-1658

BlueRidge.edu/Programs-Courses/Business/ Small-Business-Center

The Small Business Center at Blue Ridge Community College is part of the NC Small Business Center Network which supports the

SIMPLIFY THINGS WITH

development of new businesses and the growth of existing businesses by being community-based providers of training, counseling and resource information at no cost. It serves to help realize dreams of owning a business or making a current business more profitable. The Small Business Center can connect individuals to additional free local, regional, state and national resources to aid in business planning and offers counseling as well as conferences and seminars related to starting and growing a small business. Services provided also can be customized to suit specific business needs.

WNC BUSINESS

323 N Main St, Suite 1, Hendersonville 828-513-3888

WNCBusiness.com

WNC Business is a free resource with a mission to Connect, Inform, and Inspire the local business community via a quarterly magazine, a weekday email newsletter and up-to-date online business information. The publication shares relevant business news, pro tips, people to know, announcements from businesses around the region, business events and many additional resources that may be useful to business owners, community leaders and industry professionals across Western North Carolina. WNC Business also offers a free interactive online business directory and connects with the local business community on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Superior Healthcare is Right Here

Henderson County is served by two hospitals – AdventHealth Hendersonville and UNC Health Pardee. A third, St. Luke’s Hospital, is located in Columbus, NC – a short drive from southern Henderson County.

HOSPITAL CARE

Henderson County residents have easy access to three nearby hospitals – AdventHealth Hendersonville, UNC Health Pardee A third, St. Luke’s Hospital, is located in Columbus, NC – a short drive from southern Henderson County. All offer fully modern facilities and state-of-theart procedures including 24-hour emergency services. AdventHealth Hendersonville and St. Luke’s Hospital are accredited by The Joint Commission. UNC Health Pardee is accredited by DNV.

ADVENTHEALTH HENDERSONVILLE

855-774-LIFE (5433) AdventHealthNC.com

AdventHealth Hendersonville has been providing exceptional care to the people of the mountains for more than 110 years. As the only faithbased, not-for-profit health care system in Western North Carolina, AdventHealth Hendersonville’s network of primary and specialty care physicians and providers offer whole-person care – body, mind and spirit – to people across the region. The system includes a 103-bed hospital and more than 40 clinical locations offering cardiac care and

rehabilitation, nationally-accredited cancer care at four regional centers, award-winning labor and delivery care at The Baby Place, a women’s behavioral health unit and new adolescent behavioral health unit for girls. In 2024, AdventHealth will expand its surgical care and fullservice orthopedic care with the addition of its new, state-of-the-art medical office building.

AdventHealth is committed to safety and high-quality care has led to national recognitions including Leapfrog Top Hospital Award for outstanding quality and safety

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The Department of Public Health provides a variety of services, clinics and education for county residents.

Cancer care you can count on.

Cancer can affect every aspect of your life, as well as your loved ones.

Our team of board-certified oncologists and dedicated cancer care team support patients through every phase of the diagnosis, treatment and remission journey. This team guides patients through their cancer treatment, help them overcome obstacles, and provide emotional support. AdventHealth’s whole-person care is designed to support you in body, mind — and yes, in spirit — for every moment to come.

We don’t just fight cancer. We lift spirits.

and Straight “A” grades in The Leapfrog Group’s Safety Grade survey since 2016. It is the first hospital in the region to hold the AgeFriendly Health System-Committed to Care Excellence designation for all AdventHealth Medical Group clinical locations and the Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation.

ST. LUKE’S HOSPITAL

828-894-3311

StLukesNC.org

St. Luke’s Hospital, a beacon of healthcare in our community for nearly a century, is more than just a hospital. Owned by the community, this independent, not-for-profit, critical access hospital symbolizes

cardiology, cancer and infusion, mental health and wellness, orthopedic and sports medicine, urology, acute medical/surgery, rehabilitation and diagnostic testing, St. Luke’s is the community’s trusted partner in health.

St. Luke’s offers best-in-class imaging equipment and worldclass, nationally recognized doctors who consistently receive five-star patient reviews. St. Luke’s is a center of excellence and one of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ top-rated critical access hospitals within a 200-mile radius and among the top-rated of all regional hospitals in Western North Carolina for “outstanding patient experience,” according to Healthgrades.

is a not-for-profit healthcare organization managed by UNC Health. Pardee – the second largest employer in Henderson County – includes a 222-bed acute care hospital, a comprehensive cancer center, four urgent care centers and a network of 401 physicians and 187 advanced practice providers representing 59 specialties.

In addition to providing exceptional care in key specialties such as pulmonology, neurology, oncology and infectious disease, Pardee provides one of only two STEMIcertified emergency departments in all of Western North Carolina.

Pardee’s nationally recognized cardiology and vascular services are led by board-certified interventional cardiologists and vascular surgeons with the capacity to provide cardiac catheterizations in its new cardiac catheterization lab within Pardee

YOU DESERVE THE EXHALE

The concept of Complete Peace stems from the understanding that all individuals desire a life free from the burdens of overwhelming demands, of intrusive thoughts, and the relentless criticism imposed by self (or others). Balancing the many aspects of complex lives is the key to this. Our clinicians each offer their own unique skills and experience to tailor services to your needs. We do this by getting to know you, your values, your relationships while building a trusting, professional rapport. Together, you and your clinician will create incremental, attainable goals and develop a strategy to meet those goals. Each visit, your clinician will meet you where you need us, meaning you choose the priority for the meeting. Your clinician will utilize professional, evidence informed strategies to support you in navigating the presenting challenges by seeking deeper understanding and teaching healthy navigation strategies.

“Your Journey to Complete Peace Doesn’t Need to be Alone”

Now serving two Hendersonville Locations! Call 828-222-7949 or email appointments@completepeace.net to make your first appointment. www.completepeace.net

Pardee has been honored with a number of awards, recognitions and accreditations for patient safety, service, quality and value. Additionally, in 2024, Pardee was named by Healthgrades as No. 1 in the state for stroke care for a second consecutive year, ranked No. 2 in NC for critical care, and named one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for the third year in a row and one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals for the seventh consecutive year.

HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE

FOUR SEASONS

866-466-9734

FourSeasonsCare.org

Since 1979, Four Seasons has provided compassionate, trusted care for people facing serious illness in Western North Carolina. Four Seasons’ dedicated team of healthcare professionals, social workers, spiritual counselors and volunteers offers an extensive range of services to help patients and their

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families with the challenges that accompany living with a serious illness. Service lines include Care Navigation, Home Care, Palliative Care, Hospice Care, Pediatric Palliative & Hospice Care and Grief Services. A nonprofit organization, Four Seasons prioritizes the patient, providing care that focuses on “what matters most” to the individual and family, and provides care, regardless of the ability to pay, through support from their Foundation.

HEALTH CENTERS

Three other healthcare centers – Blue Ridge Health, The Free Clinics and the Henderson County Department of Public Health –are dedicated to providing care for underinsured, uninsured and financially challenged individuals. The Henderson County Department of Public Health and Blue Ridge Health also serve many fully insured patients.

BLUE RIDGE HEALTH

828-692-4289

BRCHS.com

Established in 1963, Blue Ridge Health is a nonprofit healthcare Federally Qualified Community Health Center (FQHC) that partners with the Western North Carolina community to keep our region healthy by providing a wide variety of high quality, compassionate healthcare services. Now open at 66 locations in ten WNC counties, BRH offers exceptional primary care, behavioral health, dentistry, discount pharmacies, pregnancy care, women’s health, pediatrics, nutrition services and more to more than 50,000 patients. The BRH team includes specialists in pediatric neurology and pediatric pulmonology. BRH is a leader in community-focused outreach and education, providing services to schools, farms, and other communities in Henderson County as well as Buncombe, Cherokee, Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Polk,

Rutherford, Swain and Transylvania Counties. Based on the principle that every person has a right to excellent health care for themselves and their families, Blue Ridge Health is committed to providing for the underinsured, uninsured and those with all types of health insurance including Medicaid, Medicare and private commercial.

THE FREE CLINICS

828-697-8422

TheFreeClinics.org

The Free Clinics (TFC) fills in critical gaps, ensuring access to quality healthcare for uninsured, lowincome neighbors. TFC is bettering the lives of Henderson and Polk County’s most vulnerable residents (Transylvania - medication only) while improving our region’s overall healthcare system, exhibiting statistically significant health

outcomes for a patient population that is often medically complex and difficult to serve within traditional channels. Individuals are eligible for services if they are uninsured or underinsured while earning 200% or less of the federal poverty level.

HENDERSON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH

828-692-4223

HendersonCountyNC.gov/Health

This county government department is charged with protecting the health of Henderson County and its residents. Services include restaurant, well and septic inspections, investigating and preventing communicable disease outbreaks, nutrition services and clinical healthcare. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides screening, education,

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Celebrating 20 Years in Hendersonville!

We provide our clients with the knowledge necessary to choose the correct insurance products that best fit their needs and lifestyles.

and food benefits for children up to age five and for pregnant and postpartum women, including breastfeeding support. Clinical services cover vaccines for children, adults and foreign travel, child health primary care from newborn through age 20, prenatal and postpartum care, family planning services, breast and cervical cancer screening up to age 64, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections and screening for lead, sickle cell and tuberculosis. Spanish language services are provided. Medicaid and many other insurance plans are accepted. Some services are offered on an income-based, sliding fee for uninsured or underinsured individuals.

OTHER HEALTH RESOURCES

MEDICAL LOAN CLOSET OF HENDERSON COUNTY

1225 Seventh Ave East, Hendersonville 828-692-9005

MedicalLoanCloset.org

The Medical Loan Closet of Henderson County has been providing low-cost loans of durable medical equipment to residents in need throughout Henderson County and surrounding areas since 1964. The Medical Loan Closet offers a vast array of equipment from basic wheelchairs, walkers, shower seats and tub transfer benches to specialized items like hospital beds, knee scooters, patient lifts and more. All items can be loaned short-term for a nominal charge. Loan fees as well as charitable contributions of equipment, monetary donations and grant funding help the nonprofit operate and fulfill its mission of providing the right equipment at the right time with responsiveness, care and compassion.

ST. GERARD HOUSE

620 Oakland Street, Hendersonville 828-693-4223

StGerardHouse.org

St. Gerard House is a nonprofit

DRUG

The Sheriff’s Office operates a drug drop box in its lobby for safe disposal of medications in partnership with The Hope Coalition, US Drug Enforcement Administration and NC Safe Kids. The lobby is open from 8AM to 5PM Monday through Friday except on County holidays. Prescription pills, capsules, ointments, vitamins, liquids in original containers, inhalers and patches are accepted. No sharps, needles, epinephrine pens or radioactive chemotherapy drugs can be accepted. Needles, epi pens and other sharps should be put into a hard plastic container (like a laundry detergent bottle), sealed with tape, labeled on the outside of the container with the words “SHARPS” and “Do Not Recycle” and taken to a Convenience Center attendant at 265 Convenience Center Drive in Hendersonville. The Sheriff’s Office also regularly holds community pill collection events.

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office 100 N Grove Street, Hendersonville 828-697-4596 | SheriffHendersonCounty.com/Drug-Disposal-Program

therapeutic center offering evidence-based treatment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and similar needs through three programs. The Grotto Therapeutic Center offers intensive one-on-one instruction based on applied behavior analysis therapy (ABA) for children from 3 to 21 years old. For teens and young adults, the Feed the Need Program offers pre-vocational services in a group setting. Family Group Night is a free monthly event open to all families caring for children with any special need. The evening provides parents with information, resources and support.

THRIVE

218 West Allen, Suite B, Hendersonville 828-697-1581

Thrive4Health.org

Thrive helps people with mental health and housing needs get back on their feet and move from surviving to thriving. Thrive’s Clubhouse is a day program for adults with severe mental illness to come and work on relationship skills, job skills, and independent living skills. The Housing Case Management program helps people who are currently experiencing homelessness get into permanent housing and utilize

case management to work toward housing stability.

REGIONAL HEALTH CENTERS

Henderson County residents also enjoy proximity to other major regional healthcare institutions, including:

• Atrium Health in Charlotte: AtriumHealth.org

• Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem: WakeHealth.edu

• Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville: Asheville.VA.gov

• Duke Health in Durham (DukeHealth.org)

• Mission Health in Asheville: MissionHealth.org

• UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill: UNCMedicalCenter.org/UNCMC

Your Retirement, Your Way

Henderson County has enjoyed a reputation as an exceptional place to retire for decades. The climate, stable economy, healthcare options, volunteer opportunities, golf and other recreation, cultural arts and retirement living choices all make Henderson County a top choice for people 55 and older.

The area is a welcoming place where retired and semi-retired adults enjoy a wonderful quality of life and can continue to play a vital role in the community.

To complement this wide range of lifestyles and every stage of retirement, Henderson County is home to a large assortment of housing options for retirees – including an ample number of adult communities. Some communities offer both single-

family and attached homes with the convenience of one-level living. Most, but not all, are condominium operated and provide all exterior and grounds maintenance for a monthly fee. Most retirement communities also include emergency call systems and 24-hour security.

CAROLINA VILLAGE in Hendersonville is a Life Plan Community offering independent living, assisted living and skilled care

all on the same campus. A one-time entrance fee provides residents with a place to live that guarantees they will be taken care of for life, with access to long-term care in the assisted living or skilled nursing area if the need arises. The monthly fee varies with the size of the apartment or cottage that the resident chooses and includes an impressive array of services, amenities, dining options and utilities, as well as social, educational, wellness and fitness programs. The monthly fee doesn’t change if and when additional levels of care are accessed.

DEERFIELD Episcopal Retirement Community in nearby Asheville is a Life Care Community, also known as Life Plan Community, offering residents a complete continuum of senior living and on-site healthcare services. Independent living options

Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community is located in south Asheville, just north of Hendersonville.

include cottages, villas, cluster homes, and apartments. Residents in assisted living suites receive help with bathing, dressing, and monitoring of medications as needed.

FLETCHER PARK INN, an age 55 and older adult Christian retirement community in Hendersonville, offers a variety of independent lifestyle options: villa homes and studio, one- or two-bedroom apartments. Residents enjoy an alcohol-free and tobacco-free campus conveniently located across the street from AdventHealth Hendersonville and adjacent to an aquatic/fitness center. A vegetarian lunch buffet with meat and vegan options and light soup supper are included along with planned activities and excursions. Scheduled transportation to shopping, errands and medical appointments also is available.

HERITAGE HILLS in Hendersonville offers a full spectrum of independent living and memory care services administered by a specifically trained and experienced staff. Residents enjoy the convenience of restaurantstyle dining, housekeeping and transportation services among many other benefits. Heritage Hills offers a variety of floor plans. Residents pay a monthly fee that includes such on-site amenities as a hair salon/barber shop, a library/ reading room, an arts and crafts hobby room, a game room with billiards and bar, a computer center with Internet access and walking paths.

LAKE POINTE LANDING with its adjacent Life Care Center of Hendersonville offers several levels of care on one campus. Many amenities, services and activities are included or available if needed or desired. For independent living,

Heritage Hills offers a

Come

Come explore a thriving retirement community nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. We have a place for you that you can call home.

• 1 or 2 bedroom apartments starting at $55,000 (Some rentals also available)

• 1 or 2 bedroom apartments starting at $55,000 (Some

• Up to 2,300 sq. ft villas from $135,000

• Up to 2,300 sq. ft villas from $135,000

• 103-bed AdventHealth across the street

• 103-bed AdventHealth across the street

• Our own fitness & aquatic center

• Our own fitness & aquatic center

• 90% Return of Capital program

• 90% Return of Capital program

150 Tulip Trail • Hendersonville, NC 28792

800-249-2882 • 828-209-6930

150 Tulip Trail • Hendersonville, NC 28792 800-249-2882 • 828-209-6930

Fletcher ParkInn .org

Fletcher ParkInn .org

private ownership villas and rental patio homes are available. The Harbor apartment building houses a swimming pool and theatre/ auditorium as well as independentliving rental apartments. The Bridge at Lake Pointe Landing offers assisted living services. Intermediate and skilled nursing care for rehabilitation or long-term care are available at the adjacent Life Care Center of Hendersonville.

As a top retirement destination, Henderson County offers not only exceptional living choices but also a great range of services and activities to enhance retirement.

RETIREMENT RESOURCES

COUNCIL ON AGING FOR HENDERSON COUNTY

828-692-4203

COAHC.org

For 55 years, the Council on Aging for Henderson County has been providing and coordinating services that engage, connect and support local adults as they age. COAHC strives to ensure that no one ages alone through their service programs: Meals on Wheels, Community Dining, Supplemental Liquid Nutrition, Caregiver Support, and Community Resource Coordination including a heat-relief assistance program.

MILLS RIVER LIFE ENRICHMENT CENTER

United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall 137 Old Turnpike Road, Mills River 828-808-5581

MillsRiverUMC.org

Mills River Life Enrichment Center is a non-denominational outreach ministry offering a unique place for fellowship and enjoyment for senior adults who are aging at home. MRLEC meets every Thursday at 10AM in the Fellowship Hall of

Fostering Independent Living

the Mills River Methodist Church at 137 Old Turnpike Road in Mills River. Weekly programs consist of chair exercises; blood pressure checks; trivia; magazine, book and jigsaw puzzle swap; a devotion and fellowship with others along with a program to educate and entertain. Lunch is served after each program, and lunch reservations are required.

MOUNTAINCARE ADULT DAY SERVICES

55 N Hillside Road, Hendersonville

828-697-7070

MountainCareServices.org

MountainCare Adult Day Services is a nonprofit organization that offers a safe and enjoyable place for aging adults to stay engaged during the day. Compassionate staff at MountainCare’s two centers offer an affordable alternative to staying home alone or entering a nursing home. Adult Day Health/Day Care provides much-needed time for caregivers to work or manage other responsibilities during the day. It also provides peace of mind that loved ones are surrounded by friends and a team of professionals who monitor conditions, safely administer medications, provide nutritious meals and offer meaningful activities that stimulate mind, body and spirit. Offering a high-quality, affordable program for adults, this center is open from 8AM to 5:30PM, Monday through Friday.

LIFELONG LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

180 West Campus Drive, Flat Rock

828-694-1740

BRCLL.com

Located on Blue Ridge Community College’s Flat Rock campus, Blue Ridge Center for Lifelong Learning

continued on page 136

offers courses on a wide variety of topics including history and current affairs (Appalachian, US and international), music, art, technology, literature and more. Classes are held Monday-Thursdays between either 10AM and Noon or 1PM and 3PM and typically span one or two weeks. Some classes are offered simultaneously via Zoom. Their online registration site is easy to navigate and shows all classes and their descriptions.

LIFE@WESTERN CAROLINA

28 Schenck Parkway, Suite 102, Asheville 828-227-7397

Life.WCU.edu

A program of Western Carolina University, the mission of LIFE@ Western Carolina is to establish a community of lifelong learners ages 50 and older by offering participantdetermined topics of interest that promote learning and communityuniversity engagement.

OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING CENTER AT UNC-ASHEVILLE

Reuter Center, One University Heights, Asheville

828-251-6140

OLLIAsheville.UNCA.edu

A nationally acclaimed learning program for older adults, the Osher Lifelong Learning Center at UNC Asheville offers opportunities for lifelong learning, leadership, community service and continued growth in a variety of settings. Founded in 1988 as the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement, OLLI’s programming includes intellectual and cultural pursuits as well as social, physical and practical life courses such as life transition and retirement relocation planning, including its Creative Retirement Exploration Weekend (CREW). OLLI’s College for Seniors (CFS) program offers more than 350 courses in four terms every year, including some online programs.

SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS®

HOW THEY CAN HELP PEOPLE 50 AND OLDER WITH RELOCATION

To better address the unique needs of home buyers and sellers who are 50 years old and older, some real estate agents earn the SRES® – or

Seniors Real Estate Specialist® –designation.

The SRES® designation indicates that a REALTOR® has demonstrated the necessary knowledge and expertise to counsel clients age 50 and older through the major financial and lifestyle transitions involved with relocating, refinancing or selling their home.

SRES® designees recognize that a home is often the largest and most precious asset that older adults have, and these certified senior specialists can help with navigating the financial and emotional aspects of selling a long-held family home.

REALTORS® with the SRES® designation have knowledge about a range of senior-related aspects of home ownership including managing capital gains and tax implications, how Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security affect real estate decisions, how Universal Design can help people stay independent in their homes and how to avoid loan schemes and scams that target older adults.

SRES® designees have specific training and experience related to assisting older adults with real estate transactions, including:

• Creating a customized plan to market and sell property.

• Understanding unique needs and creating a personalized plan to ensure a home meets those needs now and in the future.

• Utilizing specialized knowledge in reverse mortgages, 401(k) accounts and IRAs for a real estate transaction.

• Connecting with a network of movers, attorneys, CPAs, home inspectors and other experts to help with navigating the process.

For more about REALTORS® with the SRES® designation and how to find one, visit SRES.org.

continued on page 138

Lake Pointe Landing and its adjacent facility The Bridge provide independent living and several levels of care.

DOWNSIZING

HOUSEHOLD POSSESSIONS BEFORE A MOVE

Preparing for a move can also mean realizing you have more possessions than you need or want. Downsizing can be daunting but there are professionals who can help and lots of tips for tackling the job yourself.

Professional organizers and move managers specialize in sorting and organizing, managing paperwork and documentation, selling items, coordinating the donation of possessions to charity and arranging packing and moving. Two resources for finding such professionals are the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers at NASMM.com and Find My Organizer at FindMyOrganizer.com.

To begin downsizing, honestly evaluate what items you need and currently use in your life and think about what you really will – or won’t – need in your next home.

Categorize items as ones to “keep,” “sell or donate,” “see if a family member wants” or “throw out.” Use color-coded stickers to indicate which category an item falls into or put items into different designated piles during the sorting process.

Because it’s easy to become overwhelmed, pace yourself, enlist the help of friends and loved ones or a professional organizer or move manager and consider limiting sorting and purging sessions to no more than two hours at a time.

If you have possessions you think friends and loved ones would like, invite them over to take items for themselves, perhaps at a “downsizing party.”

Consider contacting local nonprofit thrift stores and other charities about your donations which may be tax-deductible. Many organizations will come to your home to pick up furniture and other household items

if they are in good condition. Start with downsizing by:

• Getting rid of clothing and accessories you haven’t worn in years.

• Purging books, magazines, CDs, albums, DVDs and VHS tapes.

• Clearing out multiple pieces of furniture, especially ones that are large and bulky.

• Disposing of unused exercise equipment, tools, kitchen appliances and other devices.

• Weeding out holiday and other decorations.

• Passing on keepsakes, old photos and mementos to family members.

• Going through paperwork, digitizing important documents and shredding files that are outdated or no longer needed.

• Emptying off-site storage facilities.

AGING RESOURCES MAGAZINE

Aging Resources is your onestop resource for everything you need to manage the many issues of aging and caregiving of the elderly in Western North Carolina. Within its pages, you’ll find concise, up-to-date information on elder housing choices in the area, home-care assistance, legal issues, financial considerations, and more. The magazine is free and available throughout the area. View it Online at

Carolina Village offers independent living, assisted living and

campus.

BEAUTY & FITNESS

AGAPÉ SALON

Agapé Salon is a new full service salon located in a beautifully renovated space on the corner of Fourth Avenue and Church Street in Downtown Hendersonville. Tracy Gossett, Salon Owner/Master Colorist is a Hendersonville native who loves doing hair. Her team is passionate about making people feel great about themselves. Women, men and children will find the ultimate salon experience at Agape Salon. They specialize in hair cutting, hair coloring, smoothing treatments, manicures, pedicures. They are experienced in up do’s for bridal and prom events, and carry professional products from Davines, Amika,Living Proof, Goldwell, Olaplex and Moroccanoil. Open Mondays by appointment Tuesdays-Fridays 9am-7pm and Saturdays 9am-3pm.

147 4th Avenue W | Hendersonville

828-595-2369

AgapeSalon147.com

BLUE RIDGE HEALTH

Blue Ridge Health provides high-quality, affordable healthcare to more than 50,000 patients in Western North Carolina. With a wide variety of medical and behavioral health services located in ten different counties, we care for your whole family, close to home. Come see us!

FAMILY MEDICINE | PEDIATRICS | PREGNANCY CARE

NUTRITION COUNSELING | PSYCHIATRY | DENTISTRY

DISCOUNT PHARMACY | GERIATRIC CARE | BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

828-692-4289 BRCHS.com

CARBON FIT YOUR PERSONAL FITNESS CENTER

Carbon Fit is a boutique style personal training facility where they focus on helping YOU reach health and fitness goals through one-on-one personal training or small groups and classes in a private setting. There is no big gym feel at Carbon Fit! Each workout is handwritten specifically for the individual whether you are new to exercise or need specialized athletic training. Let the staff at Carbon Fit help you look, perform and feel your best...your wellness depends on it! Classes include Spin, Strength, Conditioning, Physical Therapy, Boxing and Barre.

715 S Grove Street

Hendersonville

828-513-1182

CarbonFitGym.com

HOME & GARDEN

CASON BUILDERS SUPPLY

Cason Builders Supply's products add detail and upscale design to the finest homes, commercial buildings, and landscaping projects. They are the area's largest supplier of masonry materials including brick, rock, block, cultured stone, pavers, retaining walls, mortar, rebar, and landscaping materials including quality mulches, stone, and hardscape products. Their stores are locally and family owned, and they offer competitive prices on high-quality items.

203 W King Street | East Flat Rock 828-692-5716

1203 Ecusta Road | Brevard 828-883-2711

2608 S Old Hwy 14 | Greer, SC 864-877-1920

CasonBuilderSupply.com

FEATHER YOUR NEST

Feather Your Nest is sure to captivate you with their large selection of home décor and accessories, artwork, furniture, tabletop and linens. They also carry an eclectic collection of jewelry hand crafted by local artists and vintage pieces. Plan to spend time exploring the store and you are sure to find that special treasure. Never the same store twice, you will find different and unique items every time you visit. Accepting quality consignments.

Tue–Sat 10AM - 4PM 1215A Greenville Highway Hendersonville 828-693-3535

HABITAT RESTORE

Feather Your Nest

Henderson County Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore is a gem conveniently located in downtown. Two stories of antique, vintage, modern and contemporary home furnishings plus an entire warehouse of building materials. New inventory added each day, a must stop for locals and visitors looking for unique, one of a kind treasures at great prices. A remodeler’s dream, save time and money with their New Cabinetry line. Donations welcomed daily, large item pickup and delivery are available. Proceeds from the ReStore go toward building and repairing homes in our community. Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.

Mon-Sat 10AM - 5PM 222 W Barnwell Street | Hendersonville 2712 Hendersonville Road | Arden @HendoReStore Habitat-HVL.org | ShopHendoReStore.org

822 Locust Street, Suite 200

Hendersonville, NC

Open Mon-Sat 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

828-697-8900

themarketplaceonlocust.com

RAYMOND’S GARDEN CENTER

RAYMOND'S GARDEN CENTER & LANDSCAPING

RAYMOND’S GARDEN CENTER

Since 1993 the Raymond family has owned and operated this full-service landscaping and garden center. You’ll find a wide range of trees, ornamentals, perennials, annuals, decorative pots and even unique plants. Best of all, 80 percent of their plants are grown on the premises; the others are supplied by local growers. Buying locally grown plants increases the probability that they will remain healthy and thrive. Raymond’s is also a licensed landscape contractor and can provide full installation and design work. Stop by, visit their website, or follow them on Facebook.

Celebrating 30 years of serving Hendersonville.

Since 1993 the Raymond family has owned and operated this full-service landscaping and garden center. You’ll find a wide range of trees, ornamentals, perennials, annuals, decorative pots and even unique plants. Best of all, 80 percent of their plants are grown on the premises; the others are supplied by local growers. Buying locally grown plants increases the probability that they will remain healthy and thrive. Raymond’s is also a licensed landscape contractor and can provide full installation and design work. Stop by, visit their website, or follow them on Facebook. Celebrating 25 years of serving Hendersonville.

Since 1993 the Raymond family has owned and operated this full-service landscaping and garden center. You’ll find a wide range of trees, ornamentals, perennials, annuals, decorative pots and even unique plants. Best of all, 80 percent of their plants are grown on the premises; the others are supplied by local growers. Buying locally grown plants increases the probability that they will remain healthy and thrive. Raymond’s is also a licensed landscape contractor and can provide full installation and design work. Stop by Raymond’s Garden Center, visit their website, or follow them on Facebook.

1320 Kanuga Road Hendersonville, NC

1320 Kanuga Road

Hendersonville

Mon–Sat 8:00 am to 5:30 pm

Mon–Sat 8:00 am to 5:30 pm Sun 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, April – June 828-696-8000 •raymondsgc.com

Sun 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, Apr – June 828-696-8000 • www.raymondsgc.com

SHEALY ELECTRIC COMPANY

Mon–Sat 8AM - 5:30PM Sun 11AM - 4PM, April-December 1320 Kanuga Road | Hendersonville 828-696-8000 | RaymondsGC.com 115

Shealy Electric has been Hendersonville's lighting solution since 1954. Their showroom continuously provides a wide and unique selection of lamps, chandeliers, pendants, sconces and fixtures in the latest trends from hundreds of leading manufacturers. Their stock contains any lighting product you could imagine, with state of the art luminaries, replacement shades, and light bulbs in various shapes, colors, and intensities. On site custom repairs and electrical contracting are also available. Shealy Electric Co. makes lighting easy.

412 Kanuga Road Hendersonville

828-692-9125

ShealyElectricCo@bellsouth.net

THINGS YOU’LL LOVE

Looking for a unique, special gift or maybe just the perfect accessory for your home? Things You’ll Love guarantees you will find many things you will love for your home and that perfect gift for your special someone. This “special little shop” is filled with displays that will inspire. Anice Pryor, Owner/Interior Designer, searches the gift & accessory market for just the right items to compliment each other. Stop in and see all the “Things You’ll Love”!

Wednesday - Friday 10AM - 5PM Saturday 10PM - 2PM

2550 Chimney Rock Road | Suite A Hendersonville 828-692-5484 interiordesignstudiocarolinas.com

LOCAL SERVICES

ABOVE & BEYOND CABINETRY

Dreaming of a kitchen or bathroom makeover? If you are considering transforming your kitchen or bathrooms, look no further! Above & Beyond Cabinetry, LLC can bring your dream renovation to life. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate the heart of your home and create a relaxing oasis for your bathrooms. Their expert team will assist you in designing and creating a space that combines functionality and aesthetic appeal.

828-556-7789 kenny@abovebeyondcabinetry.com

BLUE RIBBON CUSTOM FRAME SHOP

Local and family-owned since 1986, Bruce and Melissa spent 35 years together framing family heirlooms, treasured photos, and favorites pieces of art. They had a long history of being involved in serving children and our local community. After 21 years on Main Street, the showroom relocated to the busy bend of Kanuga where you’ll find convenient store-front parking and more than 4,000 frame samples in stock. Today, Melissa celebrates her 38th year of serving her happy, satisfied and local customers. Stop by and visit her in the showroom for all your framing needs and ideas.

414-A Kanuga Road Hendersonville 828-693-7967

MR. ROOTER PLUMBING

Mr. Rooter Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services with a commitment to high level workmanship and excellent customer service. Their experts are trained and knowledgeable to handle any plumbing issue and employ the latest tools and technology in plumbing repair. They make it their mission to exceed customers’ expectations. Before proceeding with a repair, technicians discuss options and thoroughly explain the process. They understand the importance of helping you make informed decisions regarding your plumbing issues. Mr. Rooter offers 24/7 emergency service at no additional cost, and their uniformed technicians are courteous and friendly. With Mr. Rooter, workmanship and parts are guaranteed.

126 Underwood Road | Fletcher 828-685-3737

MrRooterWNC.com

SOUTHERN ALARM & SECURITY

Serving the area since 1936, Southern Alarm & Security offers state-ofthe-art electronic security system technology to homes and businesses. Relying on eight decades of experience, Southern Alarm leads the security industry as Western North Carolina’s largest and only locally owned ULcertified alarm company. Southern Alarm is the area’s exclusive authorized dealer for the Honeywell line of security systems and services. A complete array of electronic security services, including 24-hour monitoring, burglar and fire alarms, surveillance TV, access control systems as well as home automation and lighting control is available.

Hendersonville: 828-693-7136

Asheville: 828-253-1235

Franklin: 828-524-2268

SouthernAlarm.com

TED N. REESE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

Reese Insurance can insure almost anything! Whether you need Health, Home Owners, Renters, Flood, Business, Life, Automobile or Boat insurance, the experienced and knowledgeable staff at Ted N. Reese Insurance have been dedicated to being problem solvers since 1956. Case by case, they find out what’s most important to their customers and their unique life situations. They review risks and exposures to help determine the best coverages. As an independent agent they offer a range of solutions to best fit your budget.

440 S Main Street | Hendersonville

TedNReeseInsurance.com

Ted N. Reese Insurance Agency Inc. Protection With You In Mind

WESLEY JONES CPA PLLC

Wesley Jones CPA PLLC prioritizes the value of relationships, viewing each client interaction as a partnership. They are committed to offering close, personal attention. Their expert advice and services stem from years of advanced training, technical experience, and financial acumen. Wesley Jones CPA PLLC provides a variety of services including Income Tax Services, QuickBooks® support, and Business Consulting, along with specialized expertise in clergy/ministerial and expatriate tax returns. Their ongoing investment in professional education, staying abreast of tax laws, and utilizing state-of-the-art technology reflects their dedication to excellence.

100 Chadwick Square Court | Suite E

Hendersonville 828-435-3731

wesleyjonescpapllc.com

For more than 40 years, Hair Gallery remains one of the area’s most prestigious salons. Hair design is taken seriously here: skilled cutting, customized color, keratin smoothing and hair loss treatments. Quality products from around the world and the U.S. are here to enhance and finish your look. Relax, refresh and renew your spirits in the tranquil spa in your private room for a manicure, pedicure or massage. Enjoy facials, waxing and custom make-up by Sue Ann Seymour Cosmetics. Expert care for Bridal and Prom events. Wigs and add-in pieces by special order. You can expect exceptional care and service from the professional staff of 17 stylists, nail techs, estheticians, and a massage therapist.

Note: Strict cleaning and sanitation practices remain in place for your protection and safety.

from Unpredictable Threats

and at any time. With intense weather and acts of cyberterrorism constantly threatening infrastructure, our nation’s power grid is more susceptible to frequent and prolonged power homeowners continue to depend on electrical power to operate appliances in their home as well systems, Generac works hard every day to design and manufacture affordable home standby home until utility service is restored.

generators and how they can fit your needs and personal budget, schedule a free in-home power outage might occur tomorrow.

Celebrating 50YEARS

In the five decades folks have called us “home”, they’ve called us something even better, too: “peace of mind”.

While they love the retirement we offer -worry-free independence with supportive services and special activities daily -they most love the first-class health care we offer.

Schedule your tour today. You’ll feel right at home.