High Country Home Magazine Fall 09

Actual morning view from Echota on the Ridge overlooking Watauga Valley.

Second Home. FirSt cHoice.

Like our autumn views, the reasons Echota has become the High Country’s most successful community are clearer than ever. Lock-and-leave luxury. And a central location between Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock. See for yourself why Echota was the only choice over 450 families could make.

800.333.7601 EchotaNC.com

Visit one of our sales offices: 1107 Main St, Suite C, Blowing Rock, NC or 133 Echota Pkwy, Boone, NC • Condos from the High $200’s

The heart of your home

Your kitchen reflects your style and personality.

You need professional guidance to help you create the “Heart of Your Home�.

Call today to schedule a visit or to receive a FREE Kitchen Design Guide.

Let’s get started.

Call today!

828.963.9633 www.boonekitchensandbaths.com 7883 NC Hwy 105 South, Suite A Boone, NC 28607

Publisher’s Note If emulation by your competitors is any sign of success, then I’d say we’re doing well. As I look around and monitor other local publications, I see them beginning to add the content that we have provided since day one. I guess that in this economy, people are looking to see what’s working, so they naturally look this way. A big ‘thanks’ goes out to all those who have helped us grow. We haven’t done this on our own. With constant tweaking based on input from participants and feedback from readers, each issue reaches new heights.

In this issue, in response to your requests to include food, you will find some tasty Fall recipes from some of the High Country’s best chefs. We’re featuring some amazing products for the kitchen and dining room. There is a great article about a Blowing Rock silversmith who is blowing minds with his metal and woodwork.

And for the sportsmen, as hunting season has arrived, we have included a beautiful photographic editorial on a local bird hunting preserve. In addition to all these great articles, you can still find a plethora of resources for any home need, as well as our signature look inside the best High Country Homes. There’s much more than I can mention here, so dive on in and see what’s waiting!

- Christopher M. Rabon, Publisher

This issue is dedicated to James Ryan Strawn, a former employee and great friend of everyone here at Market Connection. Ryan was a bright young man, full of life and laughter, with a smile that was unmatched. Ryan we will miss you greatly, and we will be smiling for you.

6 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

Staff

Chris Rabon, Publisher Jon-Paul Grice, Editor Lindsey Lanning, Account Rep. Ralph Wood, Account Rep. Stefan Olson, Photographer Kayla Morton, Photographer

Contact Us Please contact us if you would like to advertise in our print or online media, contribute articles, request info on home photography, submit letters to the editor, subscribe to our magazine, or just want to give us some feedback.

Carrington Design, LLC

Market Connection Publishers of the High Country Home 828-264-2670 1082 E. King St #6 Boone, NC 28607 www.homeresourcecarolina.com highcountryhomemagazine@gmail.com marketconnectionads@gmail.com

Subscribe You can find our premier home magazine and resource guide in racks and stacks across the High Country from West Jefferson to Boone, and Blowing Rock to Banner Elk. They are so popular though, that sometimes it is hard to track one down.

828-898-3550

Relax. Renew.

Massage Therapy • European Facials Microdermabrasion • Glycolic Peels Salt Glows • Waxing Across From Sugar Mountain Entrance, Directly Behind Extreme in Banner Elk

www.RelaxatSerenity.com 8 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

If you're tired of looking for a High Country Home Magazine and simply want to guarantee that you get one, we've got the solution for you. If you live off the mountain and want to receive one in the mail, we've made it easy.

All you have to do is subscribe!

Look for the blow-in subscription card in this issue or send your check or money order for $19.99 (for the next 4 quarterly issues) or $34.99 (for the next 8 quarterly issues, only $17.50/year) to 1082 E. King St, Suite 6, Boone, NC 28607. If you wish to subscrive via credit card please call 828-264-2670.

Advertise call 828-264-2670 Become a sponsor of this beautiful magazine or advertise on our wonderful website www.homeresourcecarolina.com.

Call 828-264-2670 or send us an email at marketconnectionads@gmail.com or at highcountryhomemagazine@gmail.com to get started.

Departments

62

30

Introductions 21 Businesses We Applaud In Blowing Rock, NC 24 People We Admire In The Arts

131 Home Guide 58 Speak To Me

Silversmith, Gaines Kiker, has always called upon precious metals for inspiration.

Out Of The House 131 The Magnetic Force Of Lavender “Amidst a field of lavender, one does feel cleansed.”

136 In The Field

Pheasant hunting at Covey Hollar

62 Designing Eco-friendly Kitchens

by Jamie Weyer

30 Products We Love Kitchen And Dining

142 The Pressure Release

The allure of Fall fly fishing

68 Loo-Redo

by Colleen Luntzel

41

74 Consider A New Mattress

Submitted by Blackberry Creek

147

76 Here They Come, Ready or Not

by Breton Frazier

78 Feather Your Nest

by Richard Anderson

82 More Than Just Lights 88 What’s In A Name

A sustainable plumbing company gets its namesake from an overlook off the parkway.

Focus On Food 41 Duck Leg Congit 42 Rabbit Saltimbocca 44 Lemon Marinated Pheasant 46 Bacon Wrapped Tavern Trout 49 Peppercorn Seared Tuna 50 Apple and Poblano Salsa

136

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58

The Brokerage 147 The Brokerage Listings Premier High Country Real Estate

Other 151 Corkboard 156 Final Thoughts 158 Sponsor Index

www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 11

Design Profiles Cover Story: Dreams Interpreted E & K Construction’s luxury home in the Glens Of Grandfather embraces their most valued slogan, “Listening to needs...Interpreting dreams.”

100

Cover Photo by Stefan Olson. Photos by Perfect Ratio

{

A Twin Rivers home embraces timber, rhododendron, and stone to create its mountain fishing theme.

106 Seclusion For Sale

Cindy and Doug Robertson’s secluded mountain farm just off the Blue Ridge Parkway combines the rustic beauty of a log cabin with state of the art green technology.

{

A True Timber Frame

Going Strong

Headwaters at Banner Elk has kept its momentum when others have slowed to a crawl in this economy.

118

}

Reach The Summit

Dilley Construction and Logs America combined all of their skills to build a stunning home in the beautiful Summit Park community of Blowing Rock, North Carolina

112 12 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

} 124

Contributors Colleen Luntzel is the co-owner of House Warming, a newly established design group emphasizing the importance of making dwelling places into homes through architectural design, remodeling, and decorating. She resides in Boone with her husband of thirty two years and their youngest of five children.

Breton Frazier, the DeClutter Diva, lives in St. Augustine, Florida and works privately with individual and corporate clients. This fall she will be speaking on DeCluttering for St. John’s County Council of Women Realtors and First Methodist’s Every Woman’s Fair.

Email Breton at thedeclutterdiva@gmail.com with any decluttring questions and she will be happy to help!

Elizabeth Shukis of AS Construction, Inc., Diversified Building Solutions, Inc. and The White Glove is a graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Elizabeth and her husband, Andrew, have lived in the High Country for nine years and have owned their businesses for over 15 years. She prides herself on both the personal and professional relationships she develops with her clients.

Judi Beck is a facilitator, art consultant, and freelance writer living in the High Country. She’s been published in Pastel Artist International, Philanthropy International and the Inner Edge, as well as numerous regional publications. She and her husband, Kevin, were owners of the Upstairs Gallery in Blowing Rock.

Jamie Weyer grew up in Mooresville, North Carolina.

She graduated from Appalachian State University in May 2007 with a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design. She currently lives in Boone. Jamie completed her internship at Custom Mica in Banner Elk and has been their kitchen designer for three years.

www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 15

PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR LIGHTING FOR THE FINEST HOMES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

Events Calendar

October 22-24 - Haunted Horn Ghost Trail 24 - 4th Annual Valle Crucis Punkin Festival 26-30 - Cheap Joe's Art Stuff Weekly Workshops 28-31- Haunted Horn Ghost Trail 31 - Blowing Rock Halloween Festival 31 - Trunk Or Treat in Banner Elk November 6 - Downtown Boone Art Crawl 7 - Stick Boy Mayview Madness 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run 11 - Veterans Day Celebration 21 - West Jefferson Holiday Parade & Market 21 - Tellabration Storytelling Celebration 21-22 - Christmas on Apple Hill Farm 26 - Sugar Mountain Thanksgiving Turkey Treat 27-30 - Chetola Resort's Festival of Lights 27 - Ashe County Choose & Cut Season Opens 27 - Blowing Rock Christmas in the Park 27-29 - Christmas Art and Craft Show 27 - West Jefferson Hometown Christmas 27 -29th Christmas on Apple Hill Farm 27-29 Annual Christmas Craft Show at Boone Mall 28 15th Annual Thanksgiving Wood Kiln Opening 28 Blowing Rock Christmas Parade December 5 - Mountain home Music 5 - Ashe Arts Center Holiday Open House 6 - Ashe Choral Society at Ashe Civic Center 6 - Fireside Tour 12 - Sugar Mountain Sugar Fest For more information on events please visit bannerelk.org, ashechamber.com, visitboonenc.com, blowingrock.com.

Subscribe Trust the world’s premier landscape and architectural lighting company to turn treasured outdoor spaces into unforgettable, welcoming places that let you linger as long as you want.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today.

free nighttime demonstration 828.304.5483 (LITE) OutdoorLights.com

16 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

You can find our premier home magazine and resource guide in racks and stacks across the High Country from West Jefferson to Boone, and Blowing Rock to Banner Elk. They are so popular though, that sometimes it is hard to track one down.

If you're tired of looking for a High Country Home Magazine and simply want to guarantee that you get one, we've got the solution for you. If you live off the mountain and want to receive one in the mail, we've made it easy.

All you have to do is subscribe!

Right now we are offering the next four issues of the High Country Home Magazine for the low price of just $19.99 a year! This offer will cover all your High Country Home Stories, photos, and resources for the entirety of 2010!

Look for the blow-in subscription card in this issue or send your check or money order for $19.99 (for the next 4 quarterly issues) or $34.99 (for the next 8 quarterly issues, only $17.50/year) to 1082 E. King St, Suite 6, Boone, NC 28607. If you wish to subscrive via credit card please call 828-264-2670.

www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 17

www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 19

TheIntroductions Get to know the businesses, people, and products of the High Country

Businesses We Applaud • Blowing Rock • 21 / People We Admire • In The Arts • 24 / Products We Love • Kitchen & Dining • 30

Businesses We Applaud :: Blowing Rock

Hartley’s Interiors

Hartley’s Interiors was formed out of necessity. In 1978, there weren’t many interior designers in the High Country and there was a need for the business. Over the past thirty years the family run business of Hartley’s Interiors, has specialized in the perfect combination of detail and design. Located at 916 North Main Street in Blowing Rock, Hartley’s Interiors offers a variety of services including custom window treatments and bedding (with their in-house workroom), fine furnishings, accessories, designer fabrics and wallcoverings with professional installation. At Hartley’s Interiors, their is a major emphasis placed on working one-on-one with the clients to meet their needs. And they will meet your needs with an honest and professional approach. “We are proud of each and every individul design job we have done over the past 30 years,” said Clara Hartley. The longevity Clara emphasizes, which is linked to their great design work, is the reason why Hartley’s reputation continues to grow. If you would like information about Hartley’s Interiors and all of their design services stop by their Blowing Rock location or call them at 828-2953004. www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 21

Businesses We Applaud :: Blowing Rock

The Best Cellar

The Best Cellar Restaurant was established in 1975. The original location was in a basement on Main Street in Blowing Rock, where previous owners sold soups, sandwiches and new and used books. The name was derived from the fact that the restaurant sold books in a basement, hence The Best Cellar.

In 1980, the restaurant found a home in a 75-year-old log cabin, just outside the downtown area of Historic Blowing Rock. The cabin provided a rustic charm that welcomed visitors for years. Currently, The Best Cellar is thriving at The Inn at Ragged Gardens, the premiere place to stay in Blowing Rock.

The Best Cellar prides itself on providing its customers with the finest of food, wine, and service for 32 years. All dishes, including bread and desserts, are prepared each day. Many of the dishes have been favorites for years, but they always have daily specials to satisfy those customers looking for something new.

Their master chefs will tantalize your palate with tempting creations that are as much a work of art as they are a meal. The “standard” menu is a gourmet delight with steaks, seafood, duck, veal and lamb dishes that will leave a memory on your taste buds for a long time to come. The Best Cellar’s mountain trout and market special seafood choices would be the envy of any seashore restaurant. Their wine cellar has a reputation all of it’s own, and the knowlegeable staff can help you pick the perfect vintage to enhance your dining selection.

Of course, the ultimate dining experience would only be complete with the right atmosphere. Their dining room features huge rock fireplaces, linen tablecloths, and an experienced wait staff to cater to your every whim. Whatever your mood, the Best Cellar can accommodate you.

At lunch, try one of their delicious sandwiches, soups or salads or even the popular meatloaf or southern buttermilk fried chicken on Sunday.

The Best Cellar can accommodate small to medium numbers for parties, banquets and receptions. Please call in advance and talk with the event coordinator who will suggest the best way to meet your needs. The Best Cellar suggests advance reservations for all dining, but will be happy to accommodate you on a space available basis if you just drop by. For more information about the Best Cellar call 828-295-3466 or stop by the restaurant at The Inn at Ragged Gardens located at 203 Sunset Drive in Blowing Rock.

You can also visit www.ragged-gardens.com.

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People We Admire

In The Arts

Sally Nooney

Sally Nooney Gallery & Artist Studio Sally Shelton Nooney is an accomplished artist whose work is influenced by the beauty of nature and wildlife.

Her work reflects her love of gardening, animals, and the outdoors.

The beauty of nature and wildlife has always been a major influence in Sally’s life. She grew up in the S.C. low country; where fishing, hunting, and walks in the wild were almost daily activities. Living just outside of Charleston gave her a love of history, antiquities, and architecture as well.

Sally has painted throughout her life but decided to seriously pursue her creative talents when she and her husband, Frank, moved to the beautiful North Carolina mountains in 1987. She began placing more emphasis on her fine art in 1996, opening her own gallery and school in 2001. Her work is enjoyed by both private and corporate clients for her fine art as well as her decorative art, having created numerous custom works on furniture, floor cloths, murals, canvas, and paper.

Sally believes a work of art should be like a good friend; giving pleasure, comfort, and inspiration. “When I paint, I relax, smile, dream, become inspired... My hope is to convey these things to the viewer.”

Her work is created in a loose, flowing technique based on the sound practices of the old Masters, sprinkled with the experimental faux finishes derived from her work as a decorative artist. Although she paints primarily in oils, Sally frequently creates in watercolor and acrylic as well. She believes each medium speaks to the viewer in a different way.

Sally is the owner and director of the Artists’ Studio Gallery & School of Fine Art in Banner Elk, NC; where she teaches weekly classes in oil, acrylic, and watercolor.

Her work is exhibited in the Artists’ Studio Gallery as well as several other venues.

Photo by Stefan Olson.

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People We Admire

In The Arts

Toni Carlton Carlton Gallery Toni Carlton owner, curator of Carlton Gallery knew from a very early age that she wanted to be an artist. Toni has been fascinated with drawing since before she can remember. Drawing wasn’t her only artistic outlet as she was encouraged to weave by her family. By the time Toni was nine years old she was being taught how to weave by her grandmother on a loom that her father and grandfather built for her. This early fascination with art followed her through her education where she won the Senior Art Award from Watauga High School. Toni went on to attend Appalachian State where she obtained a bachelors degree in Art Marketing and Production with a minor in Business as well as a bachelors in Industrial Arts.

With college out of the way Toni proceeded to open her first gallery. Along with two other Fiber Artists she opened Woven Works Art Gallery and Studio in 1982. Just two short years later the other two Fiber Artists moved out, so Toni asked some of her artist friends to show their artwork with her. This shift from a partnership to a proprietorship led to a shift in the type of art that was being shown at the gallery. Carlton realized that a name change was in order saying, “I changed the name to Carlton Gallery in 1987 because we didn’t want the focus to be only on woven items but Fine Art, Contemporary Crafts, and works in all media.” Toni’s own artwork changed as well into various mixed media so the name change for the gallery seemed appropriate and has been very successful from a business standpoint as Carlton Gallery has been serving the High Country ever since.

The past twenty years have seen Carlton Gallery evolve from a small woven arts studio into a large diverse Fine Art Gallery. Toni has been right there every step of the way providing all her clients with the individual attention and impeccable service they deserve. “I enjoy speaking to the heart of others in person, through my art work and through the art of others I show in the Gallery. Since the early 90’s my message has always been the same in my artwork, showing the connection of all our relations and the spirit of the heart.” If you want to know more about Toni Carlton or her gallery then stop by and pay her a visit. She will have an open studio and be available for discussion about her work, from her early Fiber Art to her recent mixed media collages, during the Avery Tour de Art on Saturday, October 24th.

Carlton Gallery is located in the Grandfather Community on Highway 105 in-between Boone and Banner Elk, NC. Photo by Stefan Olson.

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People We Admire

In The Arts

Maria Santomasso-Hyde Alta Vista Gallery Maria Santomasso-Hyde, owner of Alta Vista Fine Art Gallery in Valle Crucis N.C., openly admits that like many others, she fell in love with the High Country while attending Appalachian State. A Concord native, Maria and her husband Lee Hyde moved to the High Country in 1994 and bought a dilapidated farmhouse in Historic Valle Crucis. They poured all their heart (and their money) into the two year renovation. As a result of all their hard work, the house is now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and is the current home for Alta Vista Fine Art Gallery.

Maria and Lee opened the doors on Alta Vista because they loved gallery shopping when they were on vacation, and they thought it was good fit for the tourist economy in the High Country. They also believed that housing Alta Vista in a registered historic place would make the gallery a more interesting place to visit and shop. Under Maria’s guidance Alta Vista has flourished, starting with just a handful of artists to representing over a hundred.

All gallery owners are artists at heart and Maria is no exception. Maria’s medium of choice is oil-painting, which she studied for years with nationally recognized painter Jim Crompton.

Maria draws most of her inspiration from the mountains and the breath-taking beauty they hold. “Sometimes it’s so beautiful here that your chest tightens, and there’s a lump in your throat. It’s a cross between exhilaration and grief.

I think that’s why we have so many artists (like me) living in the mountains – because these old hills call to us at such a gut level.” Maria also adds, “I love to paint landscapes, and I want my paintings to evoke the feelings that I have when I’m outdoors in God’s wonderful landscapes. I want the people who view my paintings to be able to transcend merely seeing the scene: I want them to feel it. That’s how I feel about my mountains. It’s about feeling them.”

In addition to running a full-time gallery, Maria serves on the Valle Crucis Historic Preservation Society. She and her husband are members of the First Baptist Church of Boone. Maria is also mom to Lindsey, a Chocolate Lab and to the black kittens who moved into the barn.

If you want to know more about Maria and Alta Vista you can call 828-963-5247 or visit, they are located 10 minutes from Boone in Historic Valle Crucis at 2839 Broadstone Road -- between Mast Farm Inn and Mast Store Annex.

Photo by Stefan Olson.

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Products We Love :: Kitchen & Dining

5.

6.

4.

2.

1.

Savor The Season

3.

With these top-of-the-line kitchen accessories from Savory Thymes.

1. Boos Block Professional Butcher’s Blocks are built from select Northern Hard Rock Maple that will last for generations.

John Boos & Co. are suppliers to Butchers, Resturants, and the White House Kitchen.

2. The “Flameware Collection” from Emile Henry offers ceramics that can be used directly on the gas, electric or halogen stovetops without fear of cracking.

3. Beautiful aprons, placemats and hand towels from Now Design and Designer, April Cornell, will bring your kitchen to life with incredible colors and designs. Decorate like every day’s a Holiday with these fine linens.

4. The Viking Professional Toaster is available in two and four slot models providing consistent toasting cycle after cycle.

5. The Wustof Classic Knife Block is a necessity in every kitchen.

These sharp, fully forged knives are perfectly balanced and have a lifetime gurantee.

6. The Viking Professional Stand Mixer delivers heavy duty performance featuring all metal construction and easy glide wheels.

Available in 5 qt. and 7 qt. with 800 watt and 1000 watt motors.

Products provided by Savory Thymes. For more info call 828-263-8181 or visit them online at www.savorythymes.com 30 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

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Products We Love :: Kitchen & Dining

2.

5.

3.

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Sugar & Spice

1.

Photo by Stefan Olson.

Spice up your kitchen with some classic antique kitchen accessories.

1. Antique pantry style bookcase 2. Set of La Campagnarde sugar jars and containers 3. Cast iron jugs and more old-timey accessories 4. Bistrot De Paris French serving tray 5. All types of floral pieces and arrangements

Products provided by Wolf Creek Traders. For more info call 828-963-6800 or visit them online at www.wolfcreektraders.com 32 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

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Products We Love :: Kitchen & Dining 3.

5.

4.

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The Perfect Touch

Photo by Stefan Olson.

Start conversations when you add these custom wood pieces to your kitchen or dining room.

1. Inspired walnut and maple bench designed and built locally, by Roger Brodt 2. Beautiful walnut and maple table, last in a series, designed by Denise Grohs 3. Custom mirrors available in any size, finish, or wood species 4. Original wood art by local artist 5. Custom furniture, including this cherry and spalted poplar heirloom, four drawer dresser

Products provided by Miters Touch. For more information call 828-963-4445 or visit them online at www.miterstouchinc.com 34 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

The

VISTAS

at Banner Elk

LUXUR Y

CONDOMINIUMS

Rich in Design, Rich in Savings!

Starting in the $300’s

“ N O T H I N G E L S E C O M PA R E S ”

(828) 898-3380 www.VistasAtBannerElk.com

www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 37

311 Penny Lane, P.O. Box 2074, Banner Elk, NC 28604

Products We Love :: Kitchen & Dining

3.

4.

2.

1.

The Table Is Set

Photo by Stefan Olson.

A rustic table and custom pottery put the “mountain” into your mountain home’s dining room 1. Custom handmade tables and chairs in a variety of sizes 2. Custom pottery and place settings 3. All kinds of gifts like this beautiful olive oil set 4. All styles of placemats and napkins

Products provided by Wolf Creek Traders. For more info call 828-963-6800 or visit them online at www.wolfcreektraders.com 36 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

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FocusOnFood

Focus On is a seasonal spotlight for all the wonderful peripherals of the home. For Fall, because many consider the kitchen to be the heart of the home, we wanted to focus on giving thanks for the delicious aromas and tastes that come from that room. So, here from our table to yours, are some mouth watering recipes for you to savor during this holiday season.

Duck Confit photo by Ralph Wood

DUCK LEG CONFIT from Hearthstone Tavern in Banner Elk featuring a blueberry-balsamic reduction Ingredients you will need: 8 Duck Legs 1 pint of Blueberries 3 cups of Balsamic Vinegar Rendered duck fat, as needed Duck Leg Cure Mix, as needed (recipe follows) How to prepare the duck: 1. Rub duck legs with generous amount of cure mix 2. Stack duck legs in a pan, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 days.

3. Remove duck legs from pan and wipe off excess cure mix 4. Preheat oven to 300 5. Place duck legs in clean pan and use enough duck fat to cover legs 6. Cover pan with foil and cook in oven for 3 hours, turning the pan every hour to ensure even cooking of duck legs 7. Slowly cook balsamic vinegar in small sauce pan until thick 8. Place balsamic reduction and blueberries in a blender and puree, then strain and reserve.

9. Sear cooked duck leg in a sauté pan until skin is crisp 10. Plate duck leg on a bed of mixed greens, drizzle with blueberry-balsamic reduction and serve

Duck Leg Cure Mix Ingredients you will need: ½ c. salt ¼ c. fennel seed ¼ c. coriander seed ¼ c. celery seed ¼ c. chopped garlic ¼ c. fresh ground black pepper How to prepare the Cure Mix: 1. Take Fennel seed, Coriander seed & Celery seed and toast in a sauté pan until aromatic 2. Combine toasted seed with the rest of ingredients and mix well 3. Use cure mix as needed and store the rest in an airtight container

www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 41

Flavor of Fall The

T

his time of year, families gather around the table to enjoy a variety of aromas and tastes, and to give thanks for blessings. For most families, the bird is the centerpiece of the meal, surrounded by a plethora of fixins including green beans, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese. These are the traditional flavors of the season that we all love. But if you‘re feeling the least bit adventurous, or just need a change of pace, we have the answer for you. The recipes that follow, provided by some of the best chefs and restaurants in the High Country including The

Three of the High Country’s best chefs share their favorite Fall recipes.

Gamekeeper, Crave, and Hearthstone Tavern, are must tastes. All these exquisite dishes, from the rabbit and pheasant to the bacon wrapped trout and peppercorn seared tuna, offer an exciting taste for any palate. So, head to the heart of the home, the kitchen, and use these recipes to prepare some delectable Fall fare. Or, if cooking just isn’t up your alley, you can always try these mouth watering treats by visiting the chefs and restaurants that shared these great recipes. Either way, enjoy.

Rabbit Saltimbocca, photo by Ralph Wood

RABBIT SALTIMBOCCA

With Wild Mushroom, Madeira Pan Sauce, and Macaroni & Blue Cheese. Provided by the Gamekeeper Rabbit Saltimbocca Serves 4

Macaroni & Blue Cheese Serves 12

Ingredients you will need: 4 rabbit hind quarters, boned 2 slices Goodnight Brothers country ham 8 leaves fresh sage, four minced, four whole 1 cup flour 2 Tbsp vegetable oil 1 Tbsp butter 1 Tbsp shallots, minced 1 tsp garlic, minced 1 cup wild mushrooms, cleaned and sliced thinly ¼ cup Madeira ½ cup rabbit stock (follow pheasant stock recipe or substitute reduced unsalted chicken stock) pinch kosher salt pinch black pepper

Ingredients you will need: 2 Tbsp kosher salt 1.5 qts macaroni 1 qt heavy cream, scalded 5 eggs, tempered 1½ tsp kosher salt ½ tsp pepper 2 Tbsp thyme ¼ cup parsley ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated ½ cup buttermilk blue cheese, crumbled 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated 1 cup bread crumbs

How to prepare the macaronia and blue cheese: Cook macaroni in one gallon of water seasoned with two tablespoons salt until al dente. While macaroni is cooking, coat 9” x 13” casserole with butter and bread crumbs. In a large mixing bowl whisk eggs with salt, pepper, thyme and parsley. Stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, blue cheese, parmesan, bread crumbs, and cooked, drained macaroni.

Pour into prepared casserole. Mix remaining parmesan and bread crumbs in small bowl and spread on casserole. Dot topping with two tablespoons butter. Bake covered with foil at 350°F for 40 minutes. Remove foil and place on top shelf of oven for about ten minutes until topping is golden brown.

How to prepare the rabbit: Gently pound country ham on a cutting board using the flat side of a mallet to make thinner. Likewise, place boned legs on a cutting board (cover with plastic wrap to prevent splatter) and gently pound with the flat side of a mallet until thin, but not torn. Place one sage leaf on each leg and cover with half a slice of ham.

Dredge legs and ham in flour then gently tap to remove excess flour. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, sear ham side down until ham acquires a bronze tint. Carefully flip and let cook one more minute. Remove legs to a warm plate. Add butter, shallots, garlic and mushrooms to pan and increase heat to medium-high.

Cook until shallots become translucent then deglaze with Madeira.

Allow wine to reduce until almost dry then add stock. Bring to simmer and season with chopped sage, salt, pepper to taste.

Return legs to pan with simmering liquid for one minute then serve.

The Gamekeeper You haven’t fully experienced the region until you’ve dined at The Gamekeeper. It’s a true gourmet restaurant, with the perfect blend of upscale elegance and simple mountain charm. The staff is top notch and very attentive. The restaurant is a favorite destination of both locals and visitors that never fails to make any trip, anniversary or event more special.

The Gamekeeper is famous for Southern favorites - ultimate in comfort food - prepared with creativity and originality, offered through an evolving seasonal menu that blends the traditional with the exotic, satisfying both the meat lover and the vegetarian. Much quality and care goes into each dish, from the selection of the freshest ingredients to the wood fire preparation and the exquisite presentation. It is perfection for even the most discerning palate.

Ken and his wife Wendy are owners and hosts who bring warmth, energy and tremendous skill to the table. Their passion is creating a “mountain cuisine” experience for their friends and guests.

Everything about your visit will be special––the sights, sounds, aromas, tastes and sensations––as the warm and friendly staff treats you to generous attention and down home hospitality. www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 43

Gamekeeper’s Pheasant photo by Chris Rabon

GRILLED PHEASANT From the Gamekeeper we have a Lemon Marinated Pheasant Breast Grilled Over Hickory Coals With Wild Mushroom Bread Pudding and Sundried Tomato Jus Grilled Pheasant

Sundried Tomato Jus

Ingredients: 4 boneless breasts of pheasant, skin on 1 lemon, zest only 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 Tbsp thyme, fresh, chopped

Ingredients you will need:: 1 cup white wine ¼ cup sundried tomato, minced 1 Tbsp shallots, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced 6 cups pheasant stock (see below or substitute unseasoned chicken stock) 1 lemon, juice only 2 sprigs thyme, stemmed, chopped pinch parsley, stemmed chopped 1 tsp salt

How to prepare the pheasant: Marinate breasts with oil, zest, and thyme for at least two hours (or overnight). Season skin side with salt and pepper, just salt on the other side. Grill over HOT coals until skin is golden brown. Flip into a cooler spot on the grill and cook until just done. To test for doneness insert a thermometer into thickest part of the meat. The bird is done when the internal temperature is 180°F. (You can remove the breast from the grill at 170° - 175° and let rest in a warm plate for a couple of minutes while it continues to cook.)

Wild Mushroom Bread Pudding Ingredients you will need: ½ cup butter 2 yellow onions, medium dice 5 garlic cloves, chopped 1lb.shiitake mushrooms stems, caps chopped 1lb. wild mushrooms, cleaned and sliced 1 cup Marsala 1 cup chicken stock 2 pts heavy cream 6 eggs 1 pt milk 1 French baguette, ½ inch cubes, day old ½ tsp black pepper 2 Tbsp Kosher salt ¼ cup thyme How to prepare the bread pudding: Sweat one onion, half the garlic, half the butter and the shiitakes in small pot. Sweat the other onion, garlic and wild mushrooms in a sauté pan. When onions become translucent split the Marsala between the two pans and allow each to reduce by half.

Add the stock to the stems and simmer for 10 minutes, then puree with the cream in a blender. Whisk eggs in a large bowl. Stir in milk and then slowly stir in stem puree. Mix in bread, sautéed mushrooms, and seasonings.

Pour mixture into a buttered and crumbed 9” x 13” casserole. Bake at 375F for 40 minutes.

How to prepare the sundried tomato jus: In a four quart non-reactive sauce pot, bring white wine, sundried tomatoes, shallots and garlic to a boil and allow to reduce until almost dry. Add stock and continue to boil until reduced by half.

Add seasonings.

Pheasant Stock Ingredients you will need: 2 pheasant carcasses 8 cups cold water 1 yellow onion, chopped 2 carrots, washed and chopped 3 stalks celery, washed and chopped 2 sprigs thyme 1 tsp whole black pepper cloves 2 bay leaves parsely stems How to prepare the pheasant stock: Roast bones in oven at 350°F until brown. Gently simmer all ingredients in large sauce pot for two hours. Strain and remove any fat from the top before using.

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Hearthstone Tavern’s Trout photo by Ralph Wood

BACON WRAPPED TROUT featuring a blueberry-onion compote. Provided by Hearthstone Tavern, Banner Elk. Ingredients you will need:

How to prepare the dish:

2 medium Onions ½ t. Salt ¼ t. Black Pepper 2 t Sugar ¼ t. cup port or sherry wine 2 t Balsamic Vinegar 1 Pint of Blueberries 4 Trout dressed and cleaned 8 slices of Applewood Bacon

1. Preheat oven to 350 2. Slice onions thin lengthwise 3. Sauté onions thin lengthwise 4. Add next 5 ingredients and cook for about 5 minutes 5. Add blueberries and let cool.

6. Place bacon under plastic film and pound lightly until thin 7. Wrap 2 pieces of bacon around each trout, slightly overlapping 8. Heat a Sauté pan over medium heat and sear trout until bacon is crisp on each side 9. Finish in oven for about 12 minutes or until trout is cooked through.

10. Plate trout, top with compote and serve.

Hearthstone Tavern The Hearthstone Tavern and Grille opened its doors on August 7, 2009 and has quickly become a favorite place to gather with family and friends for great food and drink. Situated at the foot of Grandfather Mountain,in the Tynecastle area of Banner Elk, North Carolina, the Hearthstone is reminiscent of an old mountain lodge with its stone fireplaces, dark woods, and deep, rich colors. Guests arrive early for cocktails in the Tavern before enjoying one of Executive Chef Joe Turner’s succulent meals. Live entertainment is enjoyed in the Tavern on Friday evenings.

At the Hearthstone, Chef Joe has fashioned a menu that is classic American cuisine, with a Southern twist to many of the dishes. In addition to great hand-cut steaks, they offer the freshest seafood, New Zealand rack of lamb, Carolina shrimp and grits, Joe’s Fried Chicken with Andouille Sausage Gravy, pastas, flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, and an excellent bar menu.

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Chef Joe standing in Hearthstone Tavern’s kitchen photo by Ralph Wood

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Chef Joshua, of Crave, admiring his seared tuna photo by Ralph Wood

Crave’s peppercorn seared tuna photo by Ralph Wood

PEPPERCORN SEARED TUNA Featuring a white bean salad. Provided by Crave in Boone, NC Peppercorn Seared Tuna

White Bean Salad

Ingredients you will need: 1 1/2 teaspoons peppercorns 1 8 ounce piece of center cut tuna loin Kosher salt 2 teaspoons olive oil

Ingredients you will need: 2 celery stalks, cut 1/4 inch thick 1 cup cooked cannellini beans 1 red pepper, roasted, peeled, seeded, and diced 1/2 inch 1 shallot finely minced Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar

How to prepare the trout: Toast peppercorns in small skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Transfer to mortar and crush with pestle, or simply place on cutting board and crush with heavy skillet. Dip one side of tuna into crushed peppercorns, and season with salt. Heat a small sautee pan over high heat. Add olive oil and sear tuna to desired temperature (standard: sear the top and bottom 45 seconds each.) Transfer to a resting rack. To plate, slice tuna about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick slices, and arrange on plate, place salad over one corner, and garnish with celery leaves. Drizzle any remaining liquid from bowl if desired.

How to prepare the salad: To prepare salad, combine celery, peas, roasted peppers, shallots, and lemon zest in non reactive mixing bowl, and season with salt and pepper. Toss with olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice.

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Apple and Poblano Salsa photo by Ralph Wood

APPLE AND POBLANO SALSA Provided by Crave in Boone, NC This recipe, like the tuna, is another recipe that showcases some southern flavors. It also requires no actual cooking, instead relying on the freshness and flavors of the items used. You can use home made corn tortilla chips ( or you can simply use store bought).

Ingredients you will need: 2 granny smith apples, small diced 2 poblano peppers, small diced 4 oz cooked and drained black beans 4 oz cooked sweet corn 4 oz roasted, seeded, peeled, red pepper, small diced 4 limes, juiced 1/8 teaspoon sugar, 1 1/2 tablespoon cilantro, finely chopped Salt to taste Pepper to taste Store bought tortilla chips How to prepare the dish: Combine all ingredients in non reactive mixing bowl. You can garnish with lime, sour cream, and/or grated cheddar.

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Crave Many people find it hard to believe when Chef Joshua or Jessica Grogan introduce themselves as the owners of Crave given their (especially her) youthful appearance. But with over a decade apiece in the business, and having opened Char Restaurant on Howard Street and Bluefish Grill in Banner Elk all within the past year and a half, they feel like grizzled veterans. They are pouring their collective energies into Crave, their latest concept and Boone’s newest restaurant attraction.

Crave is located on Boone Heights Drive where Wings-To-Go used to be. The food is tapas style, a “small plate, share with the table, try as many things as you can” concept originating from Spain.

Chef Joshua also has injected Asian, Italian, French,

Cajun, Southern, and other culinary stylings into his menu. With items like smoked gouda mac and cheese, poached pear and manchego flatbread, espresso dusted chocolate filet, and crispy calamari with sweet chili garlic sauce, there’s something for everyone, and something that anyone will be sure to “crave” more of.”

The décor is cozy and inviting, the lights dim at dinner, with heaps of steamy delicious food arriving by candlelight, accentuated by a selection from Crave’s extensive wine list, or for those looking to do up the night right, one of Crave’s signature martinis.

According to the Grogans, “We wanted to provide Boone with a distinct and new dining experience. One where someone could come and spend $20 for dinner, or $80 for dinner, but enjoy it all the same. One of the appeals of tapas in these current times is the price points-the average item on the menu is $6, so a couple could go out for a really nice dinner in a really nice atmosphere, and not feel the need to spend a really high amount of money. So go and enjoy Crave, where the philosophy is “small plates, big taste”.

We would like to thank all the chefs and restaurantuers for participating in this very fun “Focus On Food”. We hope that you enjoy these recipes and prepare some of these wonderful dishes within the comforts of your own kitchen. But, if you don’t get a chance to cook them yourself, please try them by visiting all of these great restaurants: The Gamekeeper 3005 Shulls Mill Rd Boone, NC 28607 (828) 963-7400 www.gamekeeper-nc.com Crave 203 Boone Heights Dr Boone NC 28607 828.355.9717 www.craveboone.com Hearthstone Tavern 3990 NC Highway 105 S Banner Elk, NC 28679 (828) 898-3461 www.hearthstonetavern.net www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 51

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Benjamin Moore

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HomeGuide Discussions on and resources for the kitchen and bath, design and decor, outdoor living, landscaping, and green technologies Speak To Me • 58 / Designing ECO-friendly Kitchens • 62 / Loo Re-do • 68 / Consider A New Mattress • 74 Here They Come, Ready or Not • 76 / Feather Your Nest • 78 / More Than Just Lights • 82 / What’s In A Name • 88

“The wood speaks to me. I know when I see it what the next slab is going to become.”

- Gaines Kiker

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Speak To Me

Silversmith, Gaines Kiker, has always called upon precious metals for inspiration. But lately he’s also finding it in unique wood slabs, pewter inlays, and reclaimed steel.

IN

the midst of a world filled with hightech, mass production and “more is better,” there is a guy in the high country who lives in a different world - a world filled with daily thoughts of design, creation and “less but better.” Celebrating 15 years as Blowing Rock’s Silversmith/Goldsmith, Gaines Kiker works from his studio on Morris Street, designing with his mind and bringing to life with his hands. He works with silver, gold, platinum and other metals but that’s not all. He also sees the potential in a piece of wood, in a rock or in almost everything he’s around. He definitely uses his gift and he likes to see it work. “ I grew up creating and building things from scrap lumber and LOTS of nails. I built treehouses , birdhouses and I fixed everything around the house.” So it was no surprise to his parents when he began his journey into the design field while spending time in the metals studio at Penland School of Crafts.

He liked moving the metal with hammers and the creative process inspired him. From there he studied metal and wood 58 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

design at East Carolina finishing with a degree in metal design.

He was fortunate to land an apprenticeship with Ubaldo Vitali, a fifth generation master silversmith in New York. Vitali did custom work for Tiffany’s and restoration work for Sotheby’s and Christie’s on 18th century or older pieces, such as a teapot made by Paul Revere. “ Working with him was a challenge.

One day Ubaldo came in and said that we had to make a full sized sterling silver cowboy hat for Tiffany’s. My job was to make the feathers. I worked with an Italian, a Russian and a guy from the Bronx and we questioned every day who the recipient would be . Then one day , the guy from the Bronx came in and said, ‘Guess what. The hat is being made for someone in North Carolina named Richard Petty.’ The hat had been commissioned for a retirement gift for Petty by R. J. Reynolds.”

Finishing his apprenticeship in 1993, Gaines moved to Winston-Salem to work with Betty Helen Longhi, a designer metalsmith, where he did her production work for the ACC Craft circuit. While working with Betty, Gaines attended the annual conference for the Society of North American

Top Left: cherry reclaimed steel and pewter Top Right: walnut reclaimed steel and pewter Bottom Left: cherry burl turned and hand carved Bottom Right: maple reclaimed steel and pewter

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Goldsmiths held in Rhode Island where he was invited to dinner with world renowned metalsmiths, Michael Goode and Heikki Seppa. Their advice to a young silversmith just starting out was to find a place to live, open up a shop and just start working. He took the next semester and studied metal techniques in Italy as part of the University of Georgia’s graduate Studies Abroad program. When he returned home, he took the advice given to him, chose Blowing Rock as the place he most wanted to live, found a building to rent and opened up a studio and gallery in October, l994.

Being a new face in town, Gaines needed exposure. He joined Expressions Gallery, a co-op in Blowing Rock, and also began showing his work at Art in the Park. His jewelry quickly became popular and the young silversmith made a name for himself. Needing help and being a wise young man, Gaines asked Susan Burke, a young lady who had moved to Blowing Rock to pursue a nursing career, to help him at the Art in the Park shows and in his gallery. The two fell in love and married in 1998. They now have two daughters, Riley (6) and Laurel (4).

After 12 years of renting retail space, Gaines felt that if he were to stay in Blowing Rock he had to invest in a place of his own. His parents were thinking of relocating to Blowing Rock and after much thought, the two families decided on the idea of building a commercial building with Gaines’ studio and gallery on the main floor and his parents’ loft apartment upstairs. This is where another aspect of Gaines’ talent showed up. Being able to solve most any design problem and build most anything, he and his family were able to design a building that they felt would lend itself to the older look of the town - simple and most important, incorporating natural rock from the area.

After building a small road with his bobcat and a pulley system for the deeper part of a ravine on his property , father and son pulled out 28 tons of large “Blowing Rock” fieldstone to build the building on Morris Street. Gaines says his biggest compliments came from people who told him that he did a good job renovating the old buildingone lady even argued when he said the building was new - “No,” she said, “I remember the old building.”

Walk into Gaines’ gallery and you’ll notice that this just isn’t ordinary - half of his space is his studio (or workshop)- where everything is designed and created by hand. He can usually be found in the back of the shop,working in his usual casual attire and hammering away as he shapes a bit of metal into a work of art - rings, Top: sterling silver, stainless steel, elk antler. 15”-18” Middle: sterling silver, amethyst. 6” Bottom: sterling silver, deer antler. 9”

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Gaines earned a BFA in Metal Design from East Carolina University and then completed an apprenticeship with Ubaldo Vitali, an Italian silversmith in New York. He has studied at Penland School of Crafts, at the Gemological Institute of America and was a student in the University of Georgia’s graduate studies abroad program in Cortona, Italy.

earrings, bracelets, necklaces, plus other creations, like a miniature fly rod, a silver bug for his daughters or a silver serving set with elk antler handles. (You may even catch his girls hammering away on bits and pieces of metal or meet Susan, his wife, who helps in the gallery).

What one friend calls his “good ol’ boy approach to life,” Gaines is not the average jeweler. Everything in his studio is designed, cut, hammered, bent, curved, soldered and polished by the metalsmith hand . He is still exploring his art, working on new techniques, styles and materials everyday.

Gaines’ interest in wood was revived when designing the interior of his new studio/gallery. “I wanted a natural and relaxing feel to the store.” After visiting friend Marty McCurry at his shop, Highland Craftsman, Gaines knew he had found the perfect material to bring his shop to life, live edge slabs of wood. Gaines came home with two walnut slabs and one cherry burl slab. A new direction in his career had been born.

Mixing metal with wood has become Gaines’ woodworking style. Reclaimed steel for the bases and pewter inlays in the checks,natural cracks, set his work apart. Each piece is different from the next, all having their own character. Many woodworkers shy away from the burls and knots, but Gaines embraces them as part of the woods natural beauty. “The wood speaks to me. I know when I see it what the next slab is going to become.” After cutting, sanding, heating, hammering and bending, new life is breathed into old material.

Whether it be a diamond ring or a dining room table, anything can become a family heirloom when custom designed and handcrafted for the individual. There is a renewed appreciation for the arts in the middle of our industrialized world. People are excited about having something special and unique. Gaines has become quite diverse in what he offers as custom. He just likes to work. Custom to him is “made from scratch and usually starts with a sketch.” Gaines has a way of pulling ideas from his customers to build for them the perfect piece.

“Anything can be done, let your imagination run wild. I have been bringing your ideas to life since 1994.”

Gaines has been featured in the North Carolina “Our State” magazine, “North Carolina’s “ Taste Full” magazine, and the “WNC” magazine as well as other local publications. He is a member of the American Craft Council and the Society of North American Goldsmiths.

Call for more information about Gaines Kiker Silversmith, to inquire about a piece seen in this article, or to discuss a commission at 828-295-3992. You can also stop by his downtown Blowing Rock workshop located on Morris Street or visit his website at www.gaineskikersilversmith.com.

Top: sterling silver, turquoise Middle: sterling silver Bottom: sterling silver, turquoise

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ECO-friendly &ECO-nomical Kitchens

by Jamie Weyer, Custom Mica

DESIGNING

W

hile the kitchen is typically the heart of the home and the central gathering place for families, it is also the largest consumer of resources in the home. As sustainable products become increasingly popular in the home building market, people are becoming more aware of the actions they can take to turn their homes into healthier, more efficient, eco-friendly spaces. However, green design has a reputation of being unaffordable for many clients, and in this economic slump, budgets are tighter than ever.

But don’t throw away the idea just yet!

Nowadays, green building products are at their utmost availability and contain a wide assortment of options to fit anyone’s budget. With a little time and research, “greening” your kitchen can be affordable and within reach.

CABINETRY is the main component of a kitchen therefore quartz and recycled materials as well. They are extremely scratch it is largely responsible for the environmental soundness of and heat resistant and because they’re non-porous they prevent a home. Conventional cabinetry boxes are constructed of the growth of bacteria. If surfaces require sealing, be sure to medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or particle board. These use low volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) sealants. Another products contain formaldehyde and are known to offgas toxic advantage of these recycled paper and glass products is that they fumes once installed in a home. Since formaldehyde is a known avoid the environmentally destructive act of quarrying which carcinogen and causes symptoms like nausea, headaches, and is necessary to obtain natural stones like granite and marble. burning of the eyes, nose and throat, it is best to use materials Laminate countertops made with 100% recycled pre-consumer free of this pollutant. Try using solid wood that comes from particle board, water-based adhesives and Greenguard Certified Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified sources where trees Laminate are an economical choice. They cost significantly less are specially grown in well-managed, sustainable forests. Other than stone products but may not last as long. Recycled-glass long-lasting materials like bamboo and eucalyptus are highly or ceramic tiles are usually made with recycled content making sustainable because of their rapid growth. You can cut costs and them biodegradable and earth-friendly. They are extremely use fewer materials by building cabinet doors and drawer fronts durable and should be used with low VOC adhesives. Bamboo out of composite sheet goods like wheatboard and facing them and reclaimed wood are also sufficient materials as long as with wood veneers. Wheatboard is a toxin-free particle board they’re sustainably harvested and treated with low VOC sealants made from recycled wheat straw fibers. The finished product and water-based finishes. will be just as beautiful as solid wood cabinetry FLOORING is another surface in the home and more eco-friendly. If your kitchen is in The goal is to that should be strong and resilient, especially need of a complete remodel, try working with in the kitchen. Cork and bamboo are excellent minimize the a different layout that uses more open shelving choices for sustainability. They are both quickly instead of wall-to-wall cabinetry. This will use of natural renewable and comparable in price to solid wood give your space an open, airy feel and reduce Because linoleum is a combination of resources and floors. the amount of building materials you use. A felt, burlap or canvas coated with linseed oil, green kitchen can be a lot more affordable if reuse what we it’s an inexpensive, eco-friendly floor surface there is less to buy! Of course, any work that is very low-maintenance. Recycled glass already have. that you are capable of doing yourself will save you or ceramic tiles are a good choice because they money too. Try to deal with local distributors Even little steps are biodegradable and relatively inexpensive if possible, and pick up materials instead of depending on the size of the area being covered. towards living paying shipping costs. By purchasing products Concrete is a popular choice because of the that are closer to you it also helps reduce the greener will finishing techniques that can be applied such amount of harmful emissions released into the as stamping or staining. It is one of the more reduce the environment by petroleum fueled vehicles. expensive options but it’s very durable and easy Check out local salvage yards and construction carbon footprint to maintain. As always, reclaimed materials such sites for available materials that might be going as wood or discontinued tiles found at a salvage we leave to waste. This route can save tons of money and yard are a great find. They are typically very keep valuable resources out of our landfills! behind for future low-priced and turn what was once waste into

COUNTERTOPS are the primary work surface treasure! generations. in your kitchen so they should be made of APPLIANCES are the easiest thing to change something durable and low-maintenance. Most when improving the efficiency of a kitchen. of the eco-friendly countertop materials available today can They also impose the biggest impact on a home’s environmental be pretty costly ranging anywhere from $50 per square foot or soundness. Make sure the sizes of the appliances you are housing higher so a minimalist design is going to be most wallet-friendly. are practical for the ways you use them. Be sure to look for the If you have an island, think about using the expensive material Energy Star rating when shopping for appliances. This ensures there because it’s most likely the main work area. You can keep that your new kitchen will use approximately 10 to 50 percent pricing down by using a less costly material on the perimeter less energy and water than standard models, which will also of the kitchen. Some of these green surfaces include Icestone generate savings on your utility bills! and Terrazzo which are made from 100% recycled glass and Remember, if you’re remodeling an existing kitchen, you non-offgassing resins. These surfaces are available in a variety don’t have to transform the entire room into a green sanctuary. of colors and because they’re made from recycled glass, there Pick a few things you feel you and your family will reap the are no two slabs exactly alike! Richlite and Paperstone are benefits of, like energy efficient appliances or recycled glass tile two materials made from post-consumer recycled paper, wood backsplash.

The goal is to minimize the use of natural resources pulp from certified forests and water-based resins. They are as and reuse what we already have. Even little steps towards living expensive as stone but are heat and scratch resistant and can greener will reduce the carbon footprint we leave behind for be fabricated with wood-working tools. Man-made stones such future generations. as Caesarstone, Silestone, and Zodiaq are made from crushed 64 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

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Loo

Re-do

Based on a mostly true story

by Colleen Luntzel

T

he crowds were finally thinning out. The long line of people snaking into the Smithsonian Museum of Modern History was moving at last. Carol stepped out of the hot, humid Washington DC summer into the air-conditioned exhibit of American Homes in the Twentieth Century. Each display was a life-size diorama spotlighting the trends and fads of interior design through a century. Carol began to have the surreal sense of being pulled back in time. She imagined she was in her grandma’s living room, her auntie’s parlor, her mother’s childhood bedroom. Then she turned a corner and froze. For a split second, she became disoriented.

Carol wasn’t looking into rooms out of the past anymore, she was standing in her bathroom-her present day bathroom. From the speckled linoleum flooring, buckled against the harvest gold toilet, to the chipped Formica countertop, her bathroom had somehow been beamed right out of her house and plunked down, smack dab into the center of the Smithsonian Museum! At first, she was flabbergasted, but as she stood there, listening to the comments of other tourists, she began to feel embarrassed. That’s when Carol knew it was time to do something that she’d always thought was a little drastic. It was time to re-do her loo.

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Photo courtesy of Denise Weinkle, Photo by Stefan Olson

Bathrooms are notorious for being the last room in a house to get updated, aren’t they? I guess it’s because subconsciously, we think of them as utilitarian places--working rooms with a job. But even a hard working bathroom needs to be updated from time to time.

If a complete re-model is what’s on the docket for your room, consider hiring a designer to help you with your space planning and design, or ask your builder if he/she offers those services. The High Country is brimming with outstanding,

reputable builders who have expertise in re-modeling. However, giving your space a fresh new look isn’t always as dramatic as tearing down walls and moving plumbing around. It can be as simple as a little bit of modernizing and sprucing up. Let’s face it; if you have an older home and your bathroom hasn’t been updated in the last fifteen years, it’s probably time for a long overdue makeover.

In determining what to address in your loo-redo, think about what you need,

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“THE HOT TREND IS TO CREATE A ROOM WITH THE LOOK AND FEEL OF A SPA”

Photo courtesy of Jim Rogers, Appalachian Custom Builders Photo by Stefan Olson

what you want, and what a realistic budget would be. The ideal bathroom incorporates your wants and needs, and is affordable.

The hot trend for bathrooms today is to create a room with the look and feel of a spa. Cool, watery blues and greens are the backdrop for cabinets in rich, deep wood tones. If that’s the look you want, you can do it. Clip pictures from magazines of bathrooms you love and copy the elements you like most, adding your own twist to good design.

But whether you like the idea of a spa bathroom or not, think beyond a new tub and sink. Decide what your new bathroom’s personality will be and insure that every element you introduce into the room is harmonious.

If you’re operating on a shoestring and will be doing the job yourself, you might be wondering where to start.

Begin by assessing the layout of your room. If you have a floor-plan that works for you, great! But don’t think

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“WHO KNOWS WHO MIGHT STUMBLE INTO A MUSEUM ONE DAY AND STAND THERE, LOOKING AT YOUR BATHROOM!”

that lets you off the hook. If once upon a time, somebody decided that a harvest gold toilet was the chic, sleek look of sophistication for your space, you should know something… They were wrong! If the porcelain in your loo is ivory, you’re a step ahead, but dated fixtures aren’t the only misfits needing help in the neglected bathroom. Take a look at your floor. If like Carol, you notice the edges of a man made product, like linoleum or vinyl, curling up against the edges of the commode, you’ve got some work to do. I don’t swear, but if I did, vinyl would be a four letter word.

If you’ve got vinyl or linoleum… get it out! When considering a new floor, think about natural products such as stone, cork, wood and even cement. (I consider cement natural because of its make-up.)

There are plenty of nifty man-made products on the market to choose from, but God-made products just never go out of style. If you don’t plan on updating your bath for another fifteen years, think

natural, for timeless beauty.

So what about cabinets? Do you need new ones? Can you re-face or paint the ones you’ve already got? Do you want built-in vanities or something free standing and contemporary? Do you want drawers? Open shelving? Medicine cabinets? Think about what you need in the way of storage and counter space in the bathroom, and be realistic.

Sometimes, less is more. Not everyone has the room, or the necessity for a countertop the size of a kitchen island, and don’t forget about cost. Honestly, if you blow your budget on Italian marble floors and counter tops, will you really spend any more time in the bathroom?

In creating a gorgeous bathroom, you don’t have to check practicality at the door.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to tile, so go shopping and have fun!

Just remember, if you long to express yourself through color, try not to go overboard in anything permanent like tile. It’s easier to punch up a neutral canvas with color using accessories than it is to remove a good idea gone bad in your floor or shower surround.

When considering new fixtures, remember the overall feel and look of your new room. Go for faucets and other fixtures that compliment your room rather than jump out to make their own startling statement… and for pity sake, only get what you really need. If one towel bar is enough, don’t install two or three--just for good measure. If you’re not careful, your fixtures will become bathroom bling-bling. Never a good thing!

The bottom line is this: if you’re able and your budget allows, there’s just no time like the present for doing what needs doing, so roll up your sleeves and have fun in the creative process of your loo re-do. And by the way, I wouldn’t put it off, if I was you… who knows who might stumble into a museum one day and stand there, looking at your bathroom!

Photo courtesy of Dilley Construction and Logs America Photo taken by Stefan Olson

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you shop.

DON’T SCRIMP

Looking for a great return on investment?

Consider a New Mattress.

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ith the economy as it is, people are appropriately concerned about their investments and are especially cautious about making new investments, if they choose to make them at all. In fact, many are examining and reprioritizing all spending and purchases, separating needs from wants.

This exercise often results in a new appreciation for the things that are really important— things that may have formerly been taken for granted, like mattresses.

It’s just human nature. When things are going well, we tend to dwell on what we want rather than need. But now more than ever, investing in a new quality, comfortable mattress may offer a better return than any other product you can buy.

REAL VALUE

We all want the most for our dollar and it isn’t always easy to know how to establish the value of a mattress. While seemingly a simple product, it’s the positive benefits it offers that makes a mattress such a great value.

ADD YEARS TO YOUR LIFE & LIFE TO YOUR YEARS

In the same way that a daily vitamin, a walk, an extra glass of water and healthy meal choices all have cumulative benefits over time, sleeping well on a quality mattress every night can have a dramatic positive effect on one’s health and quality of life.

In addition, the immediate positive effects are felt each and every day. Deep sleep makes us more productive, better equips us to deal with stress and can give us a deep-down feeling of happiness and sense of well being.

DON’T WAIT TOO LONG

Based on recent scientific research, sleep experts are recommending mattresses be replaced every five years. Few people realize that in that time frame, the average person will have spent over 1 ½ years on his or her mattress. That’s ten days per month. But, it’s the quality of sleep that makes the difference. If you aren’t sleeping as well as you could, don’t let another night go by.

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Like anything else, you get what you pay for. Today’s mattresses are made of top quality materials that provide superb comfort, support and durability. The better the mattress, the more likely you will get extra minutes of deep uninterrupted sleep per night.

No one ever wishes to have bought a less comfortable mattress.

BUY FROM A REPUTABLE STORE

Stores like Blackberry Creek Mattress know how to match you with the right product. They offer a great selection of top quality mattresses at affordable prices. Helping improve people’s quality of life is their mission.

TEST DRIVE

Just as you would test drive a car, take plenty of time to really get the feel of the mattresses by using a comfortable pillow and lying in the position you normally wake up in—that’s how you probably sleep most of the time.

CONSIDER YOUR EXPERIENCE & EXPECTATIONS

As you try different models, find one most similar to your current model and then see if you like other comfort choices better. If you slept well on your current style for a number of years, then consider staying with a similar feel. Expect the thicker, softer ones to show indentations. They are designed to conform to you.

Allow 30 days to adjust to a new mattress.

ENHANCE THE EXPERIENCE

Maximize your enjoyment of a new mattress and protect your investment by including these important accessories and services with your purchase.

MATTRESS PROTECTORS

The new generation of “pads” are breathable and moisture proof and will keep your mattress dry, fresh, odor free and sanitary for years.

TOP QUALITY FRAME

Inadequate frames can actually cause damage to your mattress set and possibly void the warranty.

NEW PILLOWS

Pillows should be replaced every couple of years.

SHEETS & COMFORTERS

New high thread-count sheets have the feel of silk and are more durable than ever. Comforters offer new breathable temperatureregulating fibers.

EXTENDED WARRANTIES

Manufacturer’s warranties only cover defects and those are rare.

The Sleep Trust Guarantee covers stains, rips, tears, accidental damage and includes a 365 night comfort guarantee.

Quality Mattress = A Great Investment

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Here they come, ready

NOT!

OR

The DeClutter Diva’s Action Plan To Get Your Guest Room Ready Now

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WRITTEN BY BRETON FRAZIER

hen the plastic pumpkin displays start popping up, you know the holidays are around the corner. Now is the perfect time, when the kids are newly back in school, to breathe a sigh of relief and do some serious advance preparation. It will lighten your load later and enable you to enjoy the whirlwind of family and friends descending, whether for a game day party or a pull-the-stops-out Thanksgiving.

Take a look at your home as if you were a first-time guest.

If you expect overnight guests, they will have luggage and toiletries. Is there room for their things? Making space for your guests creates the very best welcome. And putting your best foot forward with some pre-planning shows you value their presence.

Inspect the guest bedroom. Be honest Would you want to sleep there?

Here is how to get it guest-ready: 1. Sweep aside the surface clutter and stow it, donate it or toss it. You’ll find it much easier to really see the room and to clean.

2. Dry clean the drapes or launder them and the bed linens, too. Replace the bedspread if it looks worn or tired. Put two different pillows on the bed so your guest has a choice of firm or squishy and isn’t saddled with two that aren’t comfortable.

If the bed is covered with throw pillows, provide a basket or container big enough to store them in overnight.

3. Spot clean or steam the carpet or wash throw rugs.

4. Grab a magic sponge & remove scuffs from the baseboards, around light fixtures and door knobs. Give the blinds a good scrub while you’re at it. And don’t forget those pesky ceiling fan blades.

5. A bedside table with a reading lamp and alarm clock is a thoughtful touch.

6. A pretty water carafe with matching glass is always welcoming, as is a box of tissues.

7. Add a decorative basket of catalogues, recent magazines or that novel you never got around to reading at the beach.

8. If there is a television, does it work? A channel guide would be very helpful to an out-of-towner.

9. Take a look inside the closet. Are there empty hangers and room to hang clothes?

10. A hotel-type luggage rack is a wonderful investment or a trunk or low bench can be used for laying out open suitcases.

11. Place a few, carefully chosen decorative items around but less is more. Leave bare surfaces for belongings, too.

12. Give your guest bathroom a similar going over. It may be more convenient to put out bath towels in the guest room but be sure there’s a hanging place for wet ones in the bathroom.

13. Last but not least, set out an unusual container filled with trial-sized toiletries: shampoo, body lotion, shower gel, toothbrush, anything a guest might have forgotten to bring.

Bite off a task at a time so you aren’t overwhelmed and move through the list at your own pace. It may be well worth the money to bring in a professional cleaner or painter to give the room a facelift. Missing items can often be found in other parts of the house or garage which saves buying them. Remember, you’re the expert on what works best in your guest room.

With forethought and a little effort, you can create a warm, memorable place for the guests sharing your home.

Email your organizing questions to: theDeClutterDiva@gmail.com.

For more info visit: www.DeClutterDiva.vpweb.com

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Feather YOUR NEST W

by Richard Anderson, Window And Door Specialists

ith the slowdown in new home construction, many homeowners are looking at ways to “feather the nest” they already have. One way to improve the look and weather resistance of existing windows is with a “sash kit” replacement.

Replacing complete window units can be a fairly major construction job with a correspondingly high cost. A cost saving alternative is to replace the sashes only.

It’s time for a quick Windows 101... A complete window unit consists of several separate parts. The two primary parts of a window are the frame and the sash. The sash is generally the part of the window that opens. For casements and awnings, the sash cranks out. For a double hung window the sashes go up and down. Sashes for casements and awnings almost always have to be replaced with the same brand. Universal double hung sash kits are available to fit any frame. Sash kits also include the “balances” which is the modern version of the old rope and weight system and replacement sash kits also include the convenience of tilt cleaning.

Before considering a sash kit, the first question is… “are the frames sound and true?” The frame must be free of rot and have a minimal amount of warping or settling. Convenient check lists are available to measure and tally the units needed. You always measure the sash opening at three different points side to side to check for warping. If there is a narrow “pinch point” the sashes will not open and close properly. Installation is a fairly easy process and a good window installer can do it quickly at a reasonable price. One advantage of using an installer is that most installers will dispose of the old sashes for you.

If you are siding your home or there is any sign of rot or insect damage, a full unit replacement is often preferable, but for a quick inexpensive upgrade, sash kits are a great choice.

Stimulus update: Almost all window manufacturers have now upgraded their glass options to meet the Tax Credit guidelines. The 30% Tax Credit, up to $1500, is only available for windows and doors for your primary residence. The program runs through the end of 2010. Contact us at wdspecialist@skybest.com or 828-963-7788 if you have any questions about sash kits or the Federal tax credit.

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More Than Just Lights Lighting-Designs enlightens us on the many benefits of outdoor lighting from safety and security to beauty and economy.

Photos courtesy of Clarolux

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all is the time of year when our attention turns to our yards and landscapes. As everyone knows, Fall is the perfect time for planting and over-seeding, but it is also a great time to add outdoor lighting to your landscape. As the days get shorter, everyone can extend their enjoyment of the great outdoors and their very own backyard oasis. So why is Landscape Lighting a great way to enhance your home? Here are five great reasons and why you should use a professional for your outdoor lighting needs.

SECURITY

SAFETY

High Voltage Lights such as street lights and post lights may actually make the dark areas around your property seem even darker. If you follow the logic that like a moth drawn to light, our eyes are somewhat like the moth, in that we seek out the brightest points of light. This is an instinctual habit that we do automatically. Our eyes are drawn to the very areas that are lit the most, usually with a very obtrusive, sterile light. These bright lights do little to enhance your property as well. So, by making the area immediately around them extremely bright, all the other areas are left in isolated darkness. By having a complete lighting plan, and using lower level, directional light that Landscape Lighting provides, you can illuminate, in a tasteful way, all the dark, hidden areas around your home, making it less likely to fall victim to home invasion. In addition, with advanced timers and system controls, your lights provide security to your home whether you are there or not. These controls can be tailored to each individuals homeowners needs and living habits.

Whether it’s providing an easy to follow path way from your door to a parking area, or maybe providing light in darkened areas that reduce the likelihood of accidental trips and falls, Landscape Lighting makes your home a safer place for you and your guests. Many styles of lights are available with varied and unique mounting options so there are many ways to provide light and make your home and yard safer. From simple, yet elegant Path Lights that illuminate paths and walkways, to Deck and Sconce Lights that brighten dark steps and landing areas these fixtures are a decorative way to make your home and yard easier to navigate at night. Landscape lighting is also more versatile than standard voltage lighting options, so you can provide light in areas that you previously thought unreachable, such as nature ways, natural pathways, and stream and creek beds. An additional safety factor is that these systems all use low voltage technology.

There is no danger to you or your pets if a line is accidentally cut or severed versus a standard voltage system where these same accidents could have dramatic consequences. www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 83

BEAUTY Landscape Lighting provides the opportunity to showcase your home and landscape for all to see. Let’s face it, your home is one of your greatest investments, and we have all spent lots of money and time helping it look its best. Why not be able to enjoy the beauty and elegance of what your home offers at night as well?

Landscape Lighting when done correctly will accentuate the natural shapes and textures of your home and landscape. If you have a particular focus area or feature of your home and grounds to bring attention to such as a fountain, stream, or ornamental tree or shrub, it can be highlighted so it becomes a natural focal point for all to see. Also by using landscape lighting, it allows you to create a dramatic scene, which separates your property 84 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

from the rest. Properly done landscape lighting serves to “show off” the details and features that are truly unique to your home and property.

At Lighting-Designs, we want to make your home and grounds the star of the nighttime show, not the lights. If too many lights are used or if lights are used incorrectly, your home is reflected in a negative light, pardon the pun. Knowing the balance between too many and too few lights is one of the key elements that a professional can offer, and it is something that we believe we do better than anyone. Our goal at Lighting-Design is to provide you with the perfect plan that makes your home the showcase that you have worked so hard for.

USABILITY We all spend so much time outdoors on our decks and patios that when Fall comes it usually is met with a tinge of sadness.

Gone are the backyard grilling days and the early evening hours of enjoying the scenic beauty of our homeplace because darkness arrives way to soon. Landscape Lighting can extend the usability of your outdoor space for as long as you would like. The early setting sun doesn’t have to drive you indoors. From deck lighting to area lighting to tree lights, Landscape Lighting can bring the outdoors back to life for you to enjoy. It can also provide you with extended areas for additional guests when you chose to entertain. Another user benefit is no more dark nights with a flashlight walking the dog, now you and he can see your way better when nature calls.

ECONOMICAL Low voltage lighting is a more cost effective way to illuminate your outdoors.

A typical low voltage lighting system uses about one-third the electricity compared to a standard voltage system. Also with the advanced timing and control systems the lights turn on and off when you want them to, all at pre-planned times so there is no need to wonder if you turned the lights off before going to bed. This means no more burning lights during the daytime wasting electricity or lights burning deep into the night after you go to bed unless you so choose, again no wasted use. At Lighting Designs we use only 10,000 hour rated bulbs in our installation so there is no worry or cost associated with constantly replacing bulbs. We offer a 1 year bulb-life warranty with all system purchases in addition to all of our other industry leading warranties such as Lifetime Fixture Warranty and a 10 year Transformer and Connection Warranty.

These warranties should give you peace of mind that your investment in our products and services is one that will last a lifetime.

Outdoor Lighting tips provided by LightingDesigns of NorthWest North Carolina.

Lighting-Designs looks forward to meeting your Outdoor Lighting needs. Please feel free to contact Lighting-Designs at 336-973-1352 for a free quote or to arrange a nighttime demonstration. You can see our LightingDesigns’ on page 97, or you can visit them on the web at Lighting-Designs.com.

Why use a professional, like Lighting-Designs for your Outdoor Lighting Needs?

QUALITY OF PRODUCTS Quite frankly, the level of quality that is offered by the Do-it-Yourself kits and Home centers will leave you wanting more.

Our fixtures are built to last and are made from Solid Copper; there is no plastic or lightweight aluminum to breakdown in the elements. We offer only the finest fixtures with industry leading warranties so you can rest assured that this is the last investment in landscape lighting that you will have to make.

EXPERIENCE Our experience allows us to provide our customers the “look” they are seeking.

With input from our customers, we provide insight and design, and offer varied solutions and ideas so the customer can choose what works best for their individual needs. We always work to find the most aesthetically pleasing solutions to any problems. The homeowner can count on us to do the job right!

INSTALLATION We use only the most advanced installation techniques on the market today. We go above and beyond the accepted norm and practices to make sure your job is completely worry free. We do not use quick connect or snap in fixtures that pierce the wire for connection, all of our connections are hard wired and waterproofed so you will enjoy many years of hassle-free, quality outdoor lighting CUSTOMER FOCUSED Our priority is making sure our customers’ expectations are over fulfilled. Our job is not finished until we are confident our customers are happy and 100% satisfied.

We also are committed to providing our customers with quality and affordable service if the need ever arises so you always have someone to call if there is ever a problem.

"

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What's In

A Name Photos by Ralph Wood

Andy and Heather Krause’s business, Thunder Hill Plumbing, is forever linked to the overlook Andy grew up near. It is where his best childhood memories took place. Where they sought refuge from the rat race of Charlotte. And when they decided to risk it and start their own business, it was even the setting for their first job. So for them, everything is in their name.

P

Owners Andy and Heather Krause with their children, Kaylee and Drew

eople often ask Andy and Heather Krause how they came up with the name Thunder Hill for their business. The answer is quite simple, there is an overlook just off the parkway called Thunder Hill and just as you might imagine Andy’s boyhood home is just down the road. Additionally, the first house the pair did work on is also right around the corner. These two factors alone were more than enough to convince them that Thunder Hill Plumbing was a great choice. Andy and Heather Krause love the High Country, and with good reason. Andy grew up here, attending Watauga High School and helping his dad (Doug Krause) with the family plumbing business. Heather, a Kannapolis native moved here in 1997 to attend Appalachian State.

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In 2003 after Heather graduated with a degree in Special Education the couple decided to move from Boone to Charlotte in search of better opportunities and to start a family. Andy worked in Charlotte off and on for eight years starting in 1999, doing contract work for three of the largest plumbing contractors in Charlotte. The experience garnered in those eight years were enough for Andy and Heather to realize that opening their own business would make more sense for a couple with a young family. “We just believed there were some things we could do better if we owned our own business, plus we would have more time for our two children.” After some careful deliberation Andy and Heather decided to pack up and move from Charlotte back to the High Country, and Thunder Hill Plumbing was born. The pair 90 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

cited several attributes that they thought would make them very successful on their own, “we are young, we have high energy, a hard charging work ethic, and we both possess positive attitudes that allow us to work well together and with our clients.” The duo also wanted to bring more “Green” plumbing aspects to the industry and spread the word about water conservation efforts in the field of plumbing.

Starting your own business from scratch is a daunting task to say the least, but Andy and Heather have done more than just start. In just two short years since its inception Thunder Hill Plumbing has grown into a very well respected plumbing business in the High Country. This fact is evidenced by the plethora of work Thunder

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Above: Thunder Hill Plumbing Crew. Left To Right; Josh Greer, Travis Miller, Andy Krause, Franny McCarran Right: Andy with Matt, left, and Luke Fowler, right, from Method Construction in front of 1st project completed in the high country by Thunder Hill

Hill has provided that now dots the High Country. As far as Commercial jobs go Thunder Hill installed the plumbing for Mr. Originals Gyros, Christy & Co Hair Salon, the Blowing Rock Fire Department, as well as the Green Valley Park Restrooms for Todd Combs Inc. On the residential side of things Thunder Hill has been very busy as well, working on L.E.E.D. certified homes, Healthy Built homes and Energy Star compliant homes for the following companies: David King and Constructive Solutions, Matt and Nate Roten of Capstone Builders, David Bryan of Meridian Timberworks, Luke and Matt Fowler’s Method Construction, Vincent Properties’ Matt Vincent, E & K Construction, and finally T-Square Builders.

As you can see Andy and Heather have been very busy and they take a lot of pride in being a true full service plumbing business. Andy carries an unlimited plumbing license as well as being certified to install Velux solar thermal water heating systems for Travis Thompson’s T- Square Solar Solutions.

He is also seeking his “Green” plumber certification to better serve his more environmentally conscious clients.

Thunder Hill’s early success can be largely attributed to the manner in which they run the company with an emphasis on diversity and customer service.

Diversity is key as Thunder Hill is equipped to handle all phases and types of plumbing needs. Whether it is business or residential, large or small, new install

Above: Velux solar collectors for solar thermal water heating system.

Far Left: Custom residential shower fixture installed by Thunder Hill Left: Custom residential artistic stone and sink fixture installed by Thunder Hill

or service work, they can handle the job. Thunder Hill is also passionate about the environment, and providing more environmentally sound plumbing practices such as: Solar Thermal Water Heating, Rainwater collection, and Grey Water Systems.

Andy and Heather have also put an emphasis on customer service and while their approach isn’t new, it’s certainly refreshing. When customers are concerned Honesty is always the best policy and customers always come first.

Thunder Hill uses an honest up-front approach because they believe nothing should be hidden from the customer.

Whether it be time, cost, or material their customers will be well advised and up to speed throughout the entire process.

As far as the future is concerned Andy and Heather are looking forward to duplicating their current success. Andy says “We want to continue to be the most knowledgeable, dependable, hard working and friendly plumbing business for years to come.” “If we can continue to do these things we will become one of the leading plumbers in the High Country.” Andy and Heather also wanted to take a moment to thank their team at Thunder Hill and recognize them for all their great work.

To see what is going on with Thunder Hill Plumbing, including current and finished projects and green plumbing information visit their website at www. thunderhillplumbing.com or call 828264-4791.

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DesignProfiles Explore the beautiful homes and communities of the High Country

Dreams Interpreted • 100 / A True Timber Frame • 106 / Seclusion For Sale • 112 / Going Strong • 118 / Reach The Summit • 124

“Fulfilling the customers’ needs and wants is our most important priority.

The home at The Glens of Grandfather embodies our belief."

-E & K Construction

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Dreams

Interpreted

E & K Construction’s luxury home in the Glens Of Grandfather embraces their most valued slogan, “Listening to needs...Interpreting dreams.”

Photography by Perfect Ratio and Stefan Olson

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early a decade ago, Tom Eggers and Dale Kidder combined their 25 years of construction experience to form E & K Construction. The partnership was destined for success as both men have a diverse knowledge of construction styles and techniques. Tom and Dale believe in building meaningful relationships with their clients. They both understand that fulfilling their customers’ needs and wants 100 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

is the most important priority. This philosophy is embraced in one of their most-valued slogans: “Listening to needs….

Interpreting dreams.” In addition to fulfilling its clients’ needs and wants, E & K Construction also embraces its mountain surroundings by building homes that are “At one with the land.”

Both Tom and Dale have extensive experience in land-planning.

They design homes to complement the natural surroundings and consider many key micro-environmental factors including

topography, orientation to the sun and winds, drainage, and more. They use these considerations to create an overall feel and comfort they call the “soul of the home.” Their holistic approach is responsible for the presence of E & K homes in some of the most luxurious communities in the area including Bear Creek, Headwaters, The Village At Grandfather, and The Glens Of Grandfather. Whether you’re building townhouses, timber frame, Adirondack, log or other traditional homes, E and

K creates elegant rustic homes in harmony with the mountains.

This makes E & K Construction a commodity to those planning to build in the High Country.

One of E & K Construction’s premier homes lies within the community of The Glens Of Grandfather, a unique and scenic property at the base of Grandfather Mountain. This beautiful community features three slow-rolling mountain streams www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 101

brimming with trout, sweeping mountain views of Grandfather Mountain, and a dichotomy of seclusion and accessibility. One can take advantage of pristine natural beauty while walking on the hiking trails (including the acclaimed Grandfather Mountain Profile Trail), fly fishing, leaf watching, and more. You can experence all of this seclusion while being just minutes away from the ski slopes of Banner Elk, the feeling of yesteryear in Valle Crucis, and the bustling downtown streets of Boone and Blowing Rock.

The opportunity to build in this wonderful community was received with great pleasure and pride. Since its founding, E & K Construction has become a name synonymous with quality.

Their reputation is due in no small part to the excellence of their associates. Over the years, E & K Construction has chosen to partner with firms whose caliber of work measures up to their own from start to finish. Building a home in a community as well respected as The Glens Of Grandfather was no exception.

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within The Glens of Grandfather is also synonymous with quality.

The home, “Saxony”, was conceived by Frank Betz Design, and additional changes were made to fulfill the client’s needs. The home meshes a beautiful open layout with intricate detail. It features 4500 square feet of finished space with a full basement below. The basement has unfinished space for an additional living area, bedrooms and baths. The 4500 feet of finished space showcases beautiful woodwork with rustic rails, tongue-andgroove ceilings, and bark siding. The great room lives up to its name, featuring high-vaulted ceilings, exposed railings from the second floor, a massive floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, and lots of custom conversation pieces. The kitchen exudes detail, from the custom cabinetry to the large island; from the stainless steel appliances to the eye-catching oven hood. The dining room is an amalgamation of the classic and the rustic. Exaggerated and well crafted wooden walls meet antler chandeliers in this dining hall made for a mountain lodge. The flow of the design does not stop there. The bedrooms are spacious and elegant. The bathrooms are timeless, featuring natural stone and sought-after

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amenities like the sauna and steam bath. The home also features a recreational room and multiple spacious decks for entertainment and relaxation. As an added bonus, E & K also employs green building techniques such as spray foam insulation and reclaimed wood.

As stated before, E & K’s reputation is due in no small part to the excellence of their associates. The estate in The Glens Of Grandfather was completed with the help of several important associates. High Country Cabinets, with three locations serving the High Country, provided custom cabinetry and furniture. High Country Painting was responsible for both the painting and treatment of bark siding. Jones Hardwood provided Appalachian hardwoods, and hand scraped floors. Renaissance Marble & Tile provided the beautiful detail for the kitchens and the bathrooms.

E & K Construction’s pride and joy at The Glens Of Grandfather is the culmination of their talents, boasting quality craftsmanship from the area’s best artisans, and delivering a perfectly executed dialogue between builder and client, between the home and its surroundings. But it is just one project in their overflowing portfolio. If you are planning to build your mountain dream home and would like more information about E & K Construction please contact them at 828-963-7299.

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A True

imber Frame T

A Twin Rivers home embraces timber, rhododendron, and stone to create its mountain fishing theme.

Photographs by Elizabeth Shukis, A.S. Construction

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ndrew and Elizabeth Shukis, owner and operators of A.S. Construction have been serving the High Country for nine years. The pair moved here from the Raleigh/Durham area where Andrew was a project manager for several national companies such as M/I Homes, David Weekly Homes, and D.R. Horton.

Upon arriving in April of 2000 the pair partnered with a local businessman with plans to develop a community in Wilkesboro.

However, those plans fell through. Together the pair decided that instead of working for someone else they would start their own business. It was an easy conclusion based on the skills they both had at their disposal. Andrew was able to call on his years of experience in the industry as well as the attributes he obtained while in the military. Elizabeth was more than capable of handling the business side of the operation as she holds a business degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Since its inception nine years ago A.S. Construction has held the highest of standards making customer service a primary focus. They value open communication with their clients in order to fulfill all expectations. They also emphasize a high level of commitment to their customers. According to Elizabeth, “When we say we want you to be happy, we truly mean it. It isn’t just a slogan. We take pride in all we do and want you to be thrilled with the end result.” Their customer relationships aren’t just business, many of their clients become friends.

The A.S. Construction team is very knowledgeable, and their comprehensive understanding of North Carolina Building Code comes in exceptionally handy during any construction project.

Both Andrew and Elizabeth put a high premium on quality craftsmanship. Elizabeth says, “In construction so many times builders bid low to get the project. And then run prices up to make money they lost by bidding too low.” A.S. Construction www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 107

doesn’t get into bidding wars becaue they offer cost plus 12 % and guarantee the highest level of quality.

With all these factors to consider it’s easy to see why Andrew and Elizabeth have been so busy over the past nine years. During that time they have worked in some of the most prestigious communities in the area. This long and distinguished list includes: Barn Studio in Sugar Grove, Grandfather Golf and Country Club, Mayview in Blowing Rock, Laurelmore, Reynolds Plantation on Main Street in Blowing Rock, Sweetgrass in Blowing Rock, Yonahlossee Saddle Club, Blowing Rock Country Club, Sunalei, Ridgeview Acres, and Gideon Ridge. A.S. Construction has also worked in Twin Rivers, an exclusive community in Foscoe, NC. This is the setting for one of the homes they are most proud of.

Twin Rivers is a private gated community surrounded by the 4200 acre Julian Price National Forest that offers the best private fly fishing streams the Appalachian Mountains have to offer.

Located off Highway 105 in Foscoe, just minutes from Boone and Banner Elk, Twin Rivers is just a short drive to area amenities including those in Blowing Rock. From the beautiful views to its tranquil waters, owners can experience a serenity that only Twin Rivers can offer. Twin Rivers name came from its two pristine streams, the Watauga River and the Boone Fork Creek. Being a premier fly fishing community, the waters are stocked with all 108 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

species of trout. Browns, Brookes, Rainbows, and Kamloops are spread throughout the water in a great range of sizes, from 10 inches to 32 inches.

A major builder in the Twin Rivers community goes by a similar name, Twin Rivers Builders. A.S. Construction has a close relationship with Twin Rivers Builders. This relationship is responsible for several houses in the development including a spectacular 3 bedroom, 2 ½ baths, 2700 square-foot beauty. This home is a Moss Creek™ design from Tennessee Log Home. It’s a true Timber Frame that was put together on site with wooden pegs. The exterior of the house is particularly stunning with all its intricate rockwork columns. The Home boasts two beautiful covered porches featuring rustic rhododendron railing. The siding is a mixture of shake and natural timber. The homes colors, barn red contrasting with green, create the feeling of a mountain retreat.

Log cabins and Timber frames in this area are a dime a dozen. The attention to detail and design is what makes this home stand out.

The True Timber frame on the interior combined with textures of rock make a striking background for the mountain fishing theme.

The great room, kitchen and dining area are intertwined in an open floor plan. This allows for entertaining guests, or relaxing in a comfortable setting. The great room showcases a high vaulted ceiling with a beautiful floor to ceiling rock fireplace. The room www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 109

“Log cabins and timber frames in this area are a dime a dozen. The attention to detail and design is what makes this home stand out. The true timber frame on the interior combined with textures of rock make a striking background for the mountain fishing theme.” is accented with exposed timber beams, antler chandelier, and mountain accessories. The great room and kitchen are separated by a beautiful and functional island. The kitchen features stainless-steel appliances and rich wood cabinetry. Matching the excellence of the main living space, the master bedroom is spacious and elegant, exuding mountain style. Moving into the master bathroom all focus immediately shifts to the heavenly lion paw bath tub. Also located in the master bath is a large multi-purpose and aesthetically pleasing vanity with bark mirrors. Visitors to the home are treated just like family as the guest rooms have a similar feeling of openness due to the vaulted ceilings and large closets. Visitors are also afforded two separate powder rooms for their convenience. From the open design to the attention to detail in the woodwork (hardwood, trim, tongue and groove, detailed bathroom closet shelving, and laundry room cabinetry) this house truly has it all.

Rivers Builders, Besco Electric of Charlotte, Labonte Plumbing, and Edmisten HVAC.

A.S. Construction is so proud of their involvement in the construction of this home. They would like to thank all the parties involved especially Twin Rivers community, Twin

For more information on Twin Rivers call 828-963-7020 or visit www.twinriversnc.com

Andrew and Elizabeth Shukis owners of A.S. Construction Inc , hold their General Contractor’s license and are insured for both commercial and residential construction. The couple also embraces the green side of the industry and operates Diversified Building Solutions incorporated, which allows Andrew to build certified green homes. Also under the umbrella is Elizabeth’s passion The White Glove Incorporated, a cleaning, organizing and interior design service. If you need any of these services Andrew and Elizabeth are happy to help. You can contact them at 828-2653681 or visit www.asconstructioninc.org for new construction and remodeling needs, www.diversifiedbuildingsolutions.org for green projects, or www.thewhiteglove.org for cleaning and interior design needs. Elizabeth is also a contributing author in High Country Home Magazine.

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Seclusion For Sale

Cindy and Doug Robertson’s secluded mountain farm just off the Blue Ridge Parkway combines the rustic beauty of a log cabin with state of the art green technology.

Photographs by Stefan Olson

I

t’s that time of year again: when the fall colors explode onto the High Country landscape and make us all aware of just how beautiful the mountains really are. Most of us actually take time out of our busy schedules to take a spin on the Blue Ridge Parkway and try to claim some of this beauty for ourselves.

I myself recently took a ride on the parkway out to Wilkes County to see a very unique house. I had been informed that the scenery on the way out would be spectacular but, quite frankly, spectacular would be an understatement. After a relaxing ride through the mountains I arrived at the dirt drive that led up to the house. I made a slight turn and the color-drenched tree line soon gave way to a beautiful farm stead.

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Quite clearly the centerpiece of this post card scene is a beautiful two-story log house. Normally, a log house in the mountains is no big deal but this one was no regular log house; its beautiful log exterior was concealing some rather interesting characteristics. When the owners, Cindy and Doug Robertson, decided to build, they wanted a structure that was going to be energy-efficient and withstand the test of time. After some careful research and much deliberation they chose to construct the house’s exterior walls and roof out of concrete. While concrete building systems are just now catching on here, they have been in service for some time in Europe. The final product is amazing and the design was executed seamlessly. To the untrained eye, it is nearly impossible to tell that this beautiful log house is actually made of concrete. A beautiful full-length covered

The final product is amazing and the design was executed seamlessly.

}

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porch surrounds the front of the house and a spacious twocar garage is attached to the right. While the exterior of this house has revealed its secret, a few more surprises await me inside.

for dirty entrances from the garage. One other rather large room is located on the first floor and, while it would be ideal for a myriad of purposes, it is currently being utilized as a classroom for the children of the house.

Upon entering this 6000 square foot beauty, I immediately noticed that the entirety of the interior is finished with wood; from beautiful pine siding to knotty red oak floors, this home holds a veritable forest of woodwork. The gentle tones produced by the wood lend a rustic look and natural feel to the interior of the home. A spacious living room with a dual-sided fireplace welcomes all guests entering the house. Upon entering the kitchen, a noticeably large island is at the ready for school work or dinner preparation.

Stunning cherry cabinetry adorns the walls and an ample dining room sits adjacent. The dining room is flooded with sunlight by several large windows that provide beautiful scenery to enjoy while dining. Located on the other side of the kitchen is a well placed pantry and a mud room

A quick trip upstairs reveals the house’s five bedrooms and two of its three full bathrooms. The Master bedroom is especially well done with three large windows to let in the sun while providing some picturesque views. As an added bonus, the Master bedroom also has a wonderful little nook in the corner that’s just perfect for a small office or a comfy reading chair. Inside the master bathroom is a luxurious full tub and separate sinks with mirrors for added convenience. Just down the hallway, another full bathroom awaits. This bathroom is the ultimate for large families or multiple visitors because it comes equipped with four sinks. While the upstairs is amazing, the real beauty of the house is located in the basement.

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Essentially the basement is not unlike any other basement

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HOW IT WORKS

1 2 3 4

Owners, Cindy and Doug Robertson, want potential buyers to know that this home and property isn’t just spacious and beautiful. It is also sustainable. They have installed an advanced system that heats the domestic water and uses radiant floor to keep the home warm. A testament to the functionality of this system is the 6,000 square foot home’s unheard of $150/month utility bill. This is how the system works:

The process starts by burning wood in the HS TARM boiler and with this technnology only one fire per week is needed.

As the wood burns, the water in the huge 600 gallon storage tank heats up. One fire combined wth the storage capacity of the tank provides enough hot water for a large family for one entire week.

An intricate pipe setup connects the HS TARM boiler and the huge heat storage tank to the radiant floor heat.

The Ultra-Fin Radiant Heating System, hot water runs through the pipes in the joist spaces below the floor and is conducted to light-weight louvered aluminum Ultra-Fins™ attached to the tubing. These fins transfer heat to the air, generating convection currents that warm the entire floor efficiently

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}

The gentle tones produced by the wood lend a rustic look and natural feel to the interior of the home.

you might find. It’s not especially dark because several large glass doors allow for lots of light. The real beauty of the basement is the engine room for the house.

Located in the engine room is the rather unique heating system made up of a wood burning HS TARM™ Boiler and a huge heat storage tank. When in use, this wood fuel system can readily heat enough hot water for the radiant heating system and all the hot water any family could need.

The current owner can burn one fire a week and have enough hot water for his large family. Just in case you can’t build a fire the boiler also has a gas back-up. The boiler and storage tank are connected to a state of the art Ultra-Fin™ radiant floor heating system which is responsible for supplying heat to

all the floors. While electricity is still required to power the lights, the hot water needed to supply the house requires only good old self-sustaining wood.

While the exterior and interior of this house are particularly exquisite, the property that it sits on cannot be overlooked. A generous 10.3 acre farm surrounds the house and a large healthy garden sits beside it. Two outbuildings and a barn are also located on the property. On the outer edges lie beautiful wooded pasture and a creek. Horses are permitted on the property, making it perfect for a small farm. If you have any questions or would like to inquire about this fine piece of property then please contact Kimberley Isler Broker, Realtor® at 828-260-3172 or 800-4732653.

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Photo By Eric Morely

Going

Strong Headwaters at Banner Elk has kept its momentum when others have slowed to a crawl in this economy.

S

uccess stories have been hard to come by these last 12 months, but one that stands out is The Headwaters at Banner Elk. Located just outside Banner Elk in Avery County, The Headwaters has kept its momentum. This is evidenced by the large amount of construction activity taking place beyond the staffed gate house on this 915 acre gem.

While many second home developments slowed to a crawl this past year, The Headwaters has witnessed the start of seven custom homes and the completion of several more. Property owners “We’ve been in all the have submitted plans to the various developments Headwaters architectural review committee for another five around here. But The homes. “Perhaps the best thing Headwaters is head we’ve had going for us this year is our construction momentum.”, and shoulders above says developer John Haynes. the rest."

“While sales activity slowed in the first half of the year, the construction activity kept people interested and showed that we are here to stay.” The fact that property owners who purchased home sites two years ago have made the commitment to build their custom homes is a big endorsement for the stability of Headwaters.

Sales started picking up in earnest around midyear, and in September alone the sales team wrote contracts for eight properties including a www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 119

new condominium, resale home site, cottage home and five new home sites, all without the drastic price reductions plaguing so many communities. “While other developers slashed prices out of desperation or at the insistence of their lenders, we’ve pretty much maintained our pricing.”, says Haynes.

“I’ve offered some incentives, but overall I’m very pleased that our values have held up.”

The fact that Haynes built most of the major amenities and infrastructure early

on in the project is something that has helped The Headwaters maintain its sales pace. The community features two beautiful lakes stocked with Rainbow Trout as well as six incredible community parks, one that features not one, but two two-story tree houses, picnic areas, and camp sites. There’s a staffed gate house for added peace of mind. But the crown jewel is the mountaintop clubhouse that features large gathering spaces, a fitness center, game room and 14 seat theater.

It’s not uncommon to find families watching movies in the state of the art

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theater with its plush reclining seats and 10’ screen.

Property owners Lloyd and Sharia Johnson say, “We’ve lived in this area our entire lives and we’ve been in all the various developments around here. But The Headwaters is head and shoulders above the rest. John has done more in three years than most developers get done in ten.” In a world that has witnessed projects failing left and right, having the infrastructure and amenities in place is a great selling point. Visitors

“Other developers slashed prices out of desperation... overall I’m very pleased that our values have held up.

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aren’t buying on a promise, but rather they can see and experience the parks and amenities right now.

One thing that Haynes does not control, but is thankful to have is the outstanding view. Most of the view shed is of the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests, therefore, the views will remain pristine for years to come. “Our property owners love being here. We’re just 12 minutes to Banner Elk with all of its fine dining and shops, yet away from the noise and visual clutter.”, says Haynes. “It puzzles me how one can brag about a view that includes dozens of rooftops and a ten story high rise condo in plain view.”

This point is made clear with the

Springhouse Villas condominiums at Headwaters. With only three buildings on ten acres, you won’t see another building, parking lot or neighbor in the view. These spacious three bedroom condominiums live more like single family homes due to their privacy. Therefore, one can enjoy the conveniences of a condominium lifestyle, yet all the space of a single family home. The Springhouse Villas are sold out, but a new neighborhood of town homes with garages is being introduced starting in the mid $300’s down by one of the two lakes.

Now more than ever, it is important when making a buying decision to focus on those developments that have stability

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and momentum. There are certainly “steals” to be had and deals to be made on distressed properties, but in the long run, it’s important to ask “Why is this property or that property in a distress situation?” It’s often better to stay with a community that has proven itself with the completion of infrastructure as well as one that has evidence of a healthy market. At The Headwaters, you’ll find a comfort level with the developer and the development that will put your mind at ease, so you can get on with enjoying your new mountain home.

“Perhaps the best thing we’ve had going for us this year is our construction momentum....While sales activity slowed in the first half of the year, the construction activity kept people interested and showed that we are here to stay.”

For more information about Headwaters please visit www.headwatersnc.com pr call 866-200-3290

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Reach the

Summit

Dilley Construction and Logs America combined all of their skills to build a stunning home in the beautfiul Summit Park community of Blowing Rock, NC Photographs by Stefan Olson

P

ensacola native, Doug Dilley, operated a concrete construction company in his home state for six years before adventuring to the higher elevations of North Carolina. After a trip to this area fourteen years ago, Doug knew this was where he wanted to live. It was the perfect place to mesh the experiences he gained from his concrete construction business, with his passion for building log and timber frame homes.

With this decision to make the move to the mountains, Dilley Construction was born, and has proudly been serving the people of Blowing Rock, Boone, Banner Elk, and the rest of the High Country ever since.

Dilley Construction emphasizes the importance of construction management and offers a hands-on approach to its clients. Doug and his team embrace long-standing relationships with their clients, pursuing the ultimate goal of a builder; to work hand 126 Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com 122••High HighCountry Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

in hand with a customer until their dreams come true. Dilley Construction also values its associates in the building industry and believes that the success of an undertaking of this scale (a new luxury home) is based on the hard work and perseverance of all parties involved. Doug is especially thankful for the many projects he has been a part of when working in conjunction with Nicole Robinson and Logs America, another custom log home builder located in Banner Elk. Logs America, together with kits exclusively manufactured by Log Homes of America, has been responsible for some magnificent High Country Homes.

Doug is particularly fond of a beautiful log home he helped build in Blowing Rock, NC. The 7,700 square feet gem is nestled on a sloping hill in the Summit Park community. The five bed room, four and a half bathroom estate is spacious, featuring an open floor plan that allows visitors to view all the home’s details and angles. The home is a design provided by Logs America.

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The great room features huge vaulted ceilings with heavy timber, a floor to ceiling hand-chiseled rock fireplace, an exposed loft with log timber pine railings, a heavy timber pine staircase, fir floor beams and trusses, decorative laminate structural beams, and hand peeled pine supporting posts (entire trees with bark removed). Doug is very proud of the centerpiece of the great room, the moose head on the fireplace, because it sums up his relationship with the homeowner. Doug not only helped build this beautiful room, but was also happy to lend a hand when the client needed help moving into the home, including the massive and heavy trophy moose head.

The great room’s quality is matched in the other rooms of the house. The kitchen is large, featuring natural stone and granite, and stainless steel appliances. It also features custom cabinets made by a personal friend of the homeowner, and according to Doug, “a pantry that he would love to have in his own home, and not because of its size, but because of its design and functionality.”

The dining room is spacious, featuring a conversation piece of its own, a rustic antler chandelier. One of Doug’s favorite features is one of the several wood burning fireplaces and the lift installed to retrieve firewood (a mini-elevator to get wood from the level below). Resort-like characteristics in the bedrooms and bathrooms embrace the high level of craftsmanship. The master bedroom has a see-through fireplace and Jacuzzi tub, as well as a 6’ X 6’ walk-in shower.

The estate’s greatness extends outside. The house is equipped with a covered wrap-around porch built with 10 and 12 foot roof systems. Doug is very proud of the roof system on the porch and recalls cutting the logs himself, a difficult task to say the least.

The porch also showcases a wood burning stove.

Doug is honored to have been part of such a special project with such an amazing outcome. Though there were trials and tribulations, from placing the home on a hillside to cutting huge logs, the end was worth the means. Doug is again, especially thankful to Nicole Robinson at Logs America, and would also like to thank Larry Harmon Electric, Bruce Harbison (responsible for the HVAC), and Roy Triplett Plumbing.

The log home in Blowing Rock’s Summit Park is a great example of Doug Dilley’s determination to meet and surpass the client’s needs and expectations. And nothing feels better, says Doug, “then seeing the face of an extremely happy customer.” If you are looking to build a beautiful home in the High Country of North Carolina and want to work with a construction company that values strong management, enjoys working hand in hand with the client, pursues long lasting relationships, and ensures satisfaction, Dilley Construction is the company for you.

Doug is a licensed general contractor and is currently pursuing green building certifications so he and his company can meet all of your needs, including sustainability. Dilley Construction specializes in general contracting, remodeling, and log and timber frame construction. They also provide management services. Contact Dilley Construction at 828-297-2824 or 828-260-1737 or by email at dilleyconstruction@yahoo.com. To contact Logs America about their kits and services visit www.logsamerica.com or call 828-963-7755.

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Out House of the

This section is dedicated to showcasing all the reasons why people choose to build beautiful homes in the High Country. This is your seasonal guide to exploring the wonderful and unique places this area has to offer.

Fall

The Magnetic Force of Lavender • 132 / Covey Hollar • 136 / The Pressure Release • 142

The Magnetic Force Of Lavender WRITTEN BY JUDI BECK

“Lavender is derived from the Latin word “lavare” – to wash.

And amidst a field of lavender, one does feel cleansed.”

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T

he lavender plant exudes a magnetic force to be reckoned with – especially if you’re a woman. For starters it’s purple. The majority of adolescent girls claim purple as their favorite color. It was also the favorite of Cleopatra. The color is alternately associated with nobility and mourning; extravagance and spirituality; creativity and wisdom.

But –for me - the appeal of the lavender plant extends beyond its color and symbolism. It’s embedded somewhere in its unique and woody profile combined with its distinctive aroma – not really sweet and not really pungent, if not slightly astringent. Lavender crosses the lines between the senses; its scent is almost tactile and its soft gray foliage seems to emit a soothing melody. Indeed, lavender is derived from the Latin word “lavare” – to wash. And amidst a field of lavender, one does feel cleansed.

A HEALING LANDSCAPE All this aside, it required both magnetism and a little bit of magic to find my way to Mountain Farm in the Celo community of western North Carolina. Tucked away in the shadows of the Black Mountains and the banks of the Toe River, Mountain Farm is a little known oasis of tranquility. Because of this, I find myself writing with a degree of hesitancy. For once you’ve found it, you can’t help but acquire a nagging feeling of protection from the outside world. As you wind your way down the back roads of Yancey County, your mind clears, your breath softens and your anxieties dissipate.

In fact, it is exactly this atmosphere that inspired Marilyn and Dr. Jerry Cade to purchase Mountain Farm – a picturesque 24 acres of lavender fields, blueberry bushes, mountain vistas, meadows, goats, llamas and the resident dog. Influenced by the “back to the land” sub-culture of the late 60’s and early 70’s, the couple purchased the property 35 years ago with the “romantic notion to live meaningful lives.” Their land was part of a 600-acre tract, whose bottomlands were once farmed by the Cherokee.

Jerry was already well acquainted with the land.

While in medical school at University of California, he trained two summers with Dr. Fergus Pope, a pediatrician who, with his wife, Ruth owned the entire parcel. They offered specialized medical training in their home and on their land. Together with other medical, nursing and dental students, Jerry traveled to North Carolina to work with and learn from Dr. Pope – who himself had been inspired to practice medicine through his work, in Africa, with Dr. Albert Schweitzer. So poignant was Jerry’s experience with Dr. Pope, he committed to return - to live and practice medicine in Yancey County. About that time he met, married and completed residency with his new wife, Marilyn – herself a registered nurse. Separately they had both identified Albert Schweitzer as their personal hero. Their “meaningful lives” had begun.

A TRADITION OF LEARNING They began their married life on Mountain Farm. In nearby Bakersville, Jerry practiced as a primary care physician and Marilyn as an R.N. As they began to have children, Marilyn gave up nursing and began to experiment with farm animals, crops and orchards. She tried goats, rabbits, hogs, chickens, apples and vegetables. Little by little, through “trial and error” - and selfless guidance from her mountain neighbors - Marilyn narrowed her focus to those crops that did not require chemical sprays and those animals that delighted her. The farm became “organic by default.” As their three kids (Jason and twins, Gabriel and Emily) arrived they learned to milk every morning before school and tend to farm chores. As the kids left for college, Marilyn utilized international agricultural volunteer organizations (www.wwoofusa.org and www.attra. com) that matched agricultural students with organic family farms. In exchange for a farm education, students are expected to work thirty hours a week for a minimum of three months. These volunteers contribute greatly to farm operations and the visitors’ experience, as well. Thus the tradition of training, begun by Dr. Pope, continues today.

A TRADITION OF HEALING Other traditions continue as well. Just as Dr. Fergus Pope was inspired by Albert Schweitzer’s medical work (and philosophy of “a reverence for all life”); Jerry and Marilyn’s oldest son, Jason was inspired to volunteer at L’Hopital bon Samaritan in Limbe, Haiti at the age of 18. He subsequently earned his J.D. and practices civil rights law in New York City. Jerry and Marilyn followed in their son’s footsteps – volunteering in Haiti a few years later.

If this wasn’t enough, Emily chose medicine as her field of study. She spent the year of 2002 in Lusaka, Zambia at the Mother of Mercy AIDS Hospice. While there, her twin brother visited - after spending several years in Hollywood seeking an acting career.

She immediately put him to work in the lab - teaching him to draw blood from her own arm. Gabriel subsequently returned to the Hospice a year later. Inspired by his twin sister and his African experience, Gabriel is currently in his fourth year of medical school at UNC – Chapel Hill. For his first year summer project, he volunteered at a hospital in Tanzania.

Emily is now a Physician Assistant in East Tennessee. She and her husband (a family medicine resident) volunteered at the same hospital in Tanzania during their honeymoon.

THE HEALING HERB Today the work at Mountain Farm revolves around lavender. They have 4 fields of plants of rotating maturity and species - in addition to a mystical mountaintop labyrinth.

They make and sell lavender soaps, ice cream, lotions, oils, teas and potions. Blueberries are also grown, harvested and sold every Wednesday and Sunday, during season. Goats dominate the animal community and are the reason that Jerry often advises Marilyn to “freebase lavender” in hopes that she can survive their antics! Goat milk is used in the ice cream and goat cheese – which are also for sale on the farm.

While managing the farm is a fulltime job, Marilyn also works one day a week with chemotherapy patients. She gifts each of her patients with a handmade bar of lavender soap. In addition to its sensuous smell and texture, lavender is known to improve one’s tolerance for pain, lift one’s mood and instill relaxation. For this reason, it’s often used in massage and aromatherapy. It’s also a mild antibiotic and repels some insects.

The Cades welcome visitors! When you visit Mountain Farm, you’ll be greeted by fresh mountain breezes, the soothing flow of the Toe River, waves of lavender fields, a rustic shop filled with intoxicating gifts and food, the dragonfly quilt on the Yancey County quilt tour, goats, llamas and friendly staff. This fall and winter, you can visit the farm Wednesday through Saturday from 10 – 5:00 and Sunday from 1 – 5:00. On October 31 the public can harvest lavender leaves at no charge and on the weekend of December 5 and 6, they’re participating in the Yancey-Mitchell County Crafts Tour.

Check out their website at www.mountainfarm.net for more information. Or call 828675-4856 for directions.

Then succumb to the magnetism as you wind your way to Mountain Farm. And Enjoy.

INTERESTING LAVENDER FACTS: • • • • • • • •

Lavender flowers yield nectar for honey In cooking it pairs well with goats and sheep’s cheese.

The oils are said to soothe headaches Flower bunches repel insects Used in the treatment of skin burns Flower buds are gret potpourri Oils can be used as perfumes Lavender tea can help you sleep Copyright, Judi Beck 2009

In the

Field Photos by Stefan Olson, Ralph Wood, and Chris Rabon

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Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve provides exceptional hunting to sportsmen of all experience levels, while educating the High Country about wildlife, and especially bird conservation.

M

ark Scruggs was raised in the field, hunting bird, rabbit, and even squirrel. This is where he learned the value of nature and the importance of wildlife stewardship.

So, when he had his own children, it was a natural fit to introduce them to the experiences he himself had as a child. That was his inspiration for Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve, a 250 acre game land, located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve is a private reserve featuring quail, chukar, and pheasant hunting. It is a place, according to Mark, “where kids can come to get out in nature, away from the television. A place where avid sportsmen can do what they love. Everybody can just have a really good time.” Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve ’s services are comprehensive. The hunts are fully guided, 138 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

from start to finish, and the team at the preserve will do everything from selecting and fitting the appropriate gun (12 and 20 guages for adults, 410 for children) to dressing the birds. The preserve’s season coincides with the North Carolina’s hunting preserve regulations, and is open Monday through Saturday from October 1 to March 31.

Mark enters his third year with Covey Hollar in exciting fashion. Joining him is his new partner Sue McCuthen and together they have formed M.S. Enterprises. Under this new umbrella, to compliment the Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve, they have formed the Wing Destination at Chetola, and are planning to found the Mayview Rod and Gun Club.

To attract more visitors to Covey Hollar, and share both the land and sport’s majesty, Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve has teamed with the exclusive Blowing Rock

Mark Scruggs, and his english setter, Nala, stalking pheasant at Covey Hollar.

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resort, Chetola, to feature a brand new package. The Wing

Destination at Chetola, as the new package is aptly named, is allinclusive. First, the sportsmen book the trip at Chetola. Booking the hunt requires the hunter to choose between one of three birds or a combination of these birds. Selections are between quail, chukar or pheasant. The hunt includes 30 quail or a combination of birds. The quail are priced at $8 each, chukar at $13, and pheasant at $25. Once the bird selection is made the hunters receive first-class concierge service to get their hunting preserve licenses (Packages do not include Hunting Preserve License Fee of $15.00), and then are driven to Covey Hollar. Covey Hollar is just a short distance from Chetola, nestled just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Upon arrival at the preserve, hunters are given a brief safety orientation and a description of what to expect on their hunt. Having your own gun is not a necessity, as The Wing Destination package includes the right shotgun to match your size and experience. While the guests are being briefed and equipped the Covey Hollar staff is making the field ready for the hunt.

Once in the field the expert guides at Covey Hollar will make the most out of your experience. If you’re a beginner they will stay with you every step of the way, guiding the dogs and flushing the birds. If you’re more experienced then they will be with you and guide the dogs but they will try to stay out of the way unless you need help. Covey Hollar also welcomes hunters with their own bird dogs, in this instance the guide will be with you to flush birds and help only if you request it. Covey’s guides are excellent at what they do, and they work hard at it. A recent visitor to the Hollar was a big game hunter from Tanzania who had this to say, “I’ve hunted all over the world, and the guides here work harder than any I’ve ever seen.”

To memorialize the hunt, Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve can provide a videographer to film your entire adventure. They also offer Covey Hollar logo shirts and hunting jackets for purchase after the hunt.

Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve and The Wing Destination at Chetola give a level of accessibility to the sport of bird hunting.

But Mark and Sue’s plan to grow their sport and business does not stop there. With no legitimate sporting clubs atop the mountain, the two owners are determined to make their dream of the Mayview Rod and Gun Club a reality. The goal is to create an exclusive, limited membership club for sportsmen. They intend to include both hunting and fishing. All the bird hunting for the Mayview Rod and Gun Club will take place at the Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve. All members will receive 100 birds with membership. In addition to the hunting, Mark and Sue are pursuing river frontage and water that they plan to stock (with trophy trout), maintain, and protect. Members will have 140 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

access to the Catch and Release private river year round. They also plan to offer members two planned trips a year to exotic destinations like Scotland or Alaska for fishing, and Africa for hunting. The Mayview Rod and Gun Club dream is only in the blue print stages, but stay tuned to the progress, and be sure to jump on board when this idea is actualized, as it will be a hot and limited ticket.

The initial idea of the preserve, combined with the offerings of Chetola, and the plan for the Mayview Rod and Gun Club, are only the start. Both Mark and Sue are dedicated to adding more sporting services. They are currently pursuing a clay shooting destination, plan on hosting turkey shoots with conservation membership prizes, and although fall 2009 is all ready here, their goals for starting the 2010 season entail opening with a southern tradition, the dove hunt.

With Covey Hollar Hunting Preserve, and its peripherals at the forefront of the sport in the High Country, Mark and Sue have used their stature to further the cause of wildlife conservation. Mark is a member of Trout Unlimited, the nation’s leading trout and salmon conservation organization with a mission of protecting, and restoring North America’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds.

He is also the local chapter president of Quail Unlimited, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and reestablishing crucial upland game bird habitat needed to sustain healthy quail, doves, and other forms of wildlife. According to Mark, “Wild quail coveys here are almost non existent. Our goal is to get quail back to this area and create a habitat that they will thrive in.” Working with local farmers, Mark and Quail Unlimited are reestablishing the bird’s presence in the Blue Ridge. Local farmers, including Cline Church (of Cline Church Nurseries) have donated hundreds of acres for preservation. The chapter gives seed to these local area farmers to create a food source for the birds. They have also worked in conjunction with Christmas tree farmers and have made giant steps in stopping the practice of chemical grass cutting. With more tree farmers adhering to environmentallyfriendly practices, grasses that share the fields with the trees can grow taller, creating a habitat that is welcoming to coveys, and provide protective cover against predators like coyotes, foxes, and raccoons.

Whether you’re an avid sportsman or a novice, Covey Hollar offers the experience of a lifetime. You will be enveloped by the natural beauty of the preserve’s rolling fields. You will feel a connectedness to the land and the wildlife you’ve never felt before. And you will be thrilled with the service and success of the hunt.

To plan your next hunt please contact Mark or Sue at 828-3559500 or 954-540-9154 or visit www.coveyhollar.com.

The Pressure

Release

Enjoy the High Country’s amazing Fall fly fishing season all by your lonesome.

A

s mystic as the rivers and streams themselves, is the fly fisherman standing thigh deep in those streams, whipping line across the riffles, and stripping line back, in search of a trophy trout. For the fly fisherman, the summer was a long one. Four months of warm weather and high pressure have made the search for trout a hard task, one that requires a compass and a treasure map. But as the mercury dips in the thermometer and the leaves begin to fall, several great things happen.

The State of North Carolina begins to restock the streams, and simultaneously declares all harvested streams Catch And Release until June. This translates into a wonderful scenario. First, there are thousands of fish distributed throughout the many beautiful streams and rivers of this area. And secondly no one can take them away. For the avid fly fisherman, this is an exciting time. For the next eight months the rivers will have an abundance of fish.

Then a release of pressure. For those that don’t know what high pressure is, it simply means that a lot of people are fishing the waters. During the summer months in the High Country the streams and rivers experience an influx of people. This causes the fish, and especially trout, to be more cautious of their surroundings, more aware of their diet, and far more difficult to trick.

With those seventy degree dog days behind us, less people are on the High Country’s rivers and streams. And for the fisherman that embraces a risk-versus-reward attitude, including a willingness to battle the cooler temperatures of both the air and water, as well as the increasing whip of the wind, good things are ahead.

Doing battle in these cooler temperatures takes better gear. Many fisherman switch from lighter more breathable waders to thicker and tighter neoprene waders. You can also maintain warmth by exchanging your cap or brimmed hat for a toboggan. Try to keep moisture off of you by packing a windresistant and water proof coat. And start

packing your gear in a vest, adding an additional, yet functional, layer. If you don’t know where to find the best gear, try Foscoe Fishing Company or Appalachian Angler, both located on Hwy 105 in Foscoe.

With less people on the water, the adventurous (dressed for success) can experience the true beauty of our colorful and kaleidoscopic autumn all by their lonesome. The trees are not only changing hue, but also shedding their leaves, opening up endless views of serene mountain tops, breathtaking farmlands, and a plethora of wildlife, like Blue Heron and deer.

Now let’s get to the fishing. There are all ready more fish in the water. But, even better, these fish are hungry. They are recently stocked, which for several days may shock them, but once they become acclimatized, they become ferocious predators. They know that winter is just around the corner, and that they must stock up on food. The early parts of fall, including the months of October and early November, there are several hatches of sulphurs and blue winged olives (BWO). These hatches do not go unnoticed. Swarms of these tiny, cream (sulphurs) or grayish (BWO) colored insects will appear as if from nowhere. The fish will take advantage of this food source, and you should to. As the middle and latter parts of Fall approach, the fishing turns sub-surface. Great success can be found by casting streamers (flies that impersonate a minnow) like the classic black or olive woolybugger into pools where curious trout are lurking. Nymphs and midges (underwater larvae) are also wonderful options,

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especially when trailing one behind the other. These flies, when presented well should be very productive. If you don’t know how to match the hatch, or need help with sub-surface fishing, the good folks at Foscoe Fishing Company can lend a hand. They may even let you in on some secret flies the fish are hitting.

Although the trout are hungry in the fall, in the latter parts of the season, with even cooler temperatures, they become slightly more hesitant and fastidious. Success is based not only on the fly selection or the presentation, but also your approach. Fall is a great time to switch it up. Instead of stalking from downstream, attack trout from upstream with sweeping casts and strips. Try to be as cautious as you can while walking in the river, and add length to your leader, while reducing its size. These techniques can pay huge dividends.

Fall in the High Country is synonymous with great fishing.

But only some take advantage of it. With the variety of rivers and streams in this area, from the Watauga River and the many access areas in Valle Crucis and on Hwy. 105 to the less known gems of Meat Camp Creek, Howard’s Creek, the Big Helton (Ashe County), and Wilson’s Creek, you have no exuse. So, get out on the river, either by yourself or with one of the area’s many knowledgeable guide services (Foscoe Fishing Company at 828-963-6556 or foscoefishing.com, Appalachian Angler, River Girl, etc.) and have some fun! You’re sure to find some fish and you may end up finding yourself.

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TheBrokerage

Our Brokerage section is put together especially for those who are searching for their own little piece of the High Country. Whether you’re looking for a secluded house on the Parkway or a piece of land to build your dream home, there’s a good chance you can find it here. Within this section you will find some of the most sought after luxury homes, plots of land, condominiums, and commercial property the High Country has to offer. You can also view these and more properties online at www.homeresourcecarolina.com. If you would like to inquire about placing one of your listings here you can contact us by email at highcountryhomemagazine@gmail.com or by phone at 828-264-2670

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148 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

The Brokerage

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The Corkboard

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Final Thoughts

The Blogs say go!

by Richard Anderson, Window & Door Specialists One of the biggest changes in mass communication is the advent of “Blogs”. For those of you in the early phase of the technological learning curve, “blog” is shorthand for Web log. According to Wikipedia (we’ll discuss that term another day), a blog is defined as: “A blog (a contraction of the term "weblog") is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video.”

Now in the Wild West world of the web, blogs can include everything from the 21st century version of a snake-oil salesman to our current, fully modern, Mark Twain.

There is trash and treasure and as Roman observers might say Caveat emptor or "Let the buyer beware".

The sheer volume of information available means the truth is, as Fievel liked to sing, “Out there somewhere”. Three “good news” bloggers are: Positive Economic News, Carpe Diem, and Calafia Beach Pundit. These are some examples of the indicators that our intrepid bloggers have offered to bolster the view that we are in recovery and that opportunities lie ahead. In their own words…

Positive Economic News: • Toyota raised its world 2009/10 sales forecast by 3 percent citing a recovery in demand for autos • September consumer confidence is now at its highest level since January of 2008 Carpe Diem: • California and Florida Housing markets continue to improve. California's home sales increase for the 14th straight month and Florida's string of sales improvements as now stretched to a full dozen • Back in March, Intrade odds had the possibility of Q3 growth at 25%. Now those odds are a 95% • The inventory of homes on the market has now fallen to April 2007 levels The Beach Pundit: • Current mortgage rates are now the deal of a lifetime... (both conventional and jumbo) • In aggregate, US financial burdens are down Visitors to the High Country and full or part-time residents come here to enjoy the scenery and ambiance that the area offers. As we approach the Holiday Season and the New Year ahead, I also offer a dose of good news. Thanks for sharing the mountain experience with us and in the words of the Inuit people…

May you have warmth in your igloo, oil in your lamp, and peace in your heart.

Resource Index 221Auto Detailing....................................81 A Flooring Outlet...................................155 A S Construction......................................38 A1 Vaccuum Solutions............................25 Add It Inc.................................................27 Advanced Realty...................................147 Aldous Construction................................20 Alta Vista Gallery...................................133 App Manufactured Stone........................77 Appalachian Blind and Closet.................69 Appalachian Custom Builders................18 Appalachian Furniture............................86 Appalachian Radon Busters................151 Art Cellar Gallery...................................135 Ashe High Country Realty.....................147 Barna Log Home ....................................52 Blackberry Mattress................................75 Blue Mountain Metalworks....................156 Blue Ridge Harley Davidson.................154 Boone Paint and Interiors........................53 Busters Log Homes.................................96 Cabin Store.............................................23 Capehart & Washburn.......................7, 148 Carlton Gallery........................................14 Carriage Square Realty.........................147 Carrington Design.....................................8 Carver Guttering.....................................80 Chris' Home Builders Outlet....................39 Closet Design Center.............................37 Coldwell Banker (Kim Isler).............149, 152 Covey Hollar..........................................144 Creekside Home Improvements...........151 Custom Micah & Wood...........................17 Dachille Construction............................145 Design On Tap.......................................73 Dilley Construction..................................29 Distinctive Kitchen & Bath...................... 5 Doe Ridge Pottery................................130 Doug Mcguire Construction......................9 Dougnet ..............................................153 Downhill Plumbing..................................70 E And K Construction.............Inside Cover Fine Home Builders................................72 Foggy Mountain Gem Mine...................157 Foscoe Fishing Co................................145 Echota........................Inside Front Cover Gaines Kiker...........................................19 Green Forestry Solutions......................154 Green Horizons Innovators..................95 Gum Ridge Mill.......................................20 H & H Drywall..................................73, 81 Harry Stroud Roofing..............................15 Hartley's Interiors....................................77 Hawk Mountain Garden Center..............80 Hawksnest........................................155 HC Home & Prop Services..................146 Headwaters........................................20 Hearthstone Tavern & Grill.....................51 Heather Buchanan Electric ...................81 High Country Cabinets ...........................40 High Country Clean Space ...................94 High Country Energy Solutions..............98

High Country Renovators..............................158 High Country Stone.......................................95 House Design and Floor Planning...............73 Hunters Tree Service.....................................53 Jason McGuire Backhoe and Grading...........155 Joe Lynn Cleaners ....................................159 Kevin Beck Studios..........................................6 Knox Group....................................................20 Landscape Lighting Design ELC...................97 Lil Greenes Grading & Hydroseeding.........86 Linville Galleries...........................................132 Logs America...................................................2 Main Street Discount......................................81 Mckee Tree Service........................................55 Miters Touch.....................................................6 Monica Reid Photography............................146 Morales Hardwood Flooring..........................93 Mountain Construction..................................151 Mountain Heritage Systems.........................160 Mountain High Realty...................................150 Mountain Tile .................................................66 Mountaineer Sheet Metal.............................153 Mountainscapes.......................................151 Munday Hardwoods..........................................3 My Mountain Dream House..........................148 New River Custom Builders ..........................54 New River Showcase & Design .....................52 Northwestern Heating....................................92 Orkin.................................................80,153 Outdoor Lighting Perspective.........................16 Parker Tie.......................................................66 Precision Cabinets.........................................72 Quality Tile & Marble Inc......................71, 151 Randy Blake Carpentry.................................. 87 RCD Randy Strombeck....................................1 Regency Properties......................................154 Ripvan Properties...........................................15 Sally Nooney Gallery....................................134 Serenity Day Spa ...........................................8 Spivey Construction.......................................13 State Farm...................................................151 Sugar Top Resort Sales................................20 Superior Spas................................................19 Supherb Gutters...........................................154 Sustainable Green Builders............................33 Tatum Galleries.....................................56, 85 Terminix .......................................................151 The Carpet House..........................................80 The Country Gourmet.....................................56 The Fabric Shoppe........................................98 The Gamekeeper .........................................51 The Knoll Interior Design...............................75 The Sterling Company..................................149 The Vistas.......................................................35 Thunder Hill Plumbing....................................67 Wallace Propane............................................31 Weichert / Weber Hodges Group.................155 Wildlife Wranglers.........................................151 William Blake Radon Mitigation ...................94 Window & Door Spec....................................79 Wolf Creek Traders.........................................11 Worth Supply...................................................17