2013 Banner Elk My Hometown

BANNER ELK

2013 my hometown

The High Country is a great place to visit ... and a better place to live!

Retail ∙ Entertainment ∙ Restaurants ∙ Events ∙ Recreation ∙ Important Numbers Real Estate ∙ Weather ∙ Chamber of Commerce ∙ Civic Groups ∙ Education

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Banner Elk My Hometown

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December 2013

to Banner Elk, our hometown BANNER ELK MAYOR

Brenda Lyerly

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elcome to beautiful and historic Banner Elk. We are so glad you found our unique, special part of Western North Carolina.

Did you know that the Banner family settled in the Elk Valley in the 1840s from Scotland by way of Philadelphia? Our area was called Banner’s Elk in the early years, and some of our natives with family roots still use the possessive on occasion.

We have all the amenities of a larger area without the traffic. The High Country has highly qualified doctors and a fine hospital. We have great restaurants with accomplished chefs, grocery stores that carry everything your heart desires and we even have LeesMcRae College that has been here for 100 years.

Our small town is blessed with two snow ski resorts within 15 minutes of our one stoplight. In the sum-

mer we are near six golf courses, some of which are considered the best in the country. Summer in our area is a pleasure, because our temperatures are 15to 20-degrees cooler than off our mountain. We are 3,740 feet above sea level, and the panoramic views in the High Country are picture postcard perfect. With four distinct seasons in Banner Elk, you can imagine that our fall seasons are spectacular with color, and spring is so welcoming with the first flowers of the season. The Christmas season is so special in Banner Elk. The lighted snowflakes and garland and wreaths are so beautiful and, of course, our town elk statue is adorned with his own special wreath.

Banner Elk has scenic greenway trails, a multipurpose park and a dog park. Our residents and visitors put all of these facilities to good use, so much so that we have plans

Banner Elk Mayor Brenda Lyerly

Every Christmas, Banner Elk’s elk statue is adorned with a special wreath to mark the holidays — a perfect match to the holiday wreaths, garland and lighted snowflakes installed across the town.

PHOTOS BY SAM CALHOUN

Banner Elk Town Hall

for expansion. Also very popular in the summer are our Thursday evening free concerts in the park. You must come early to stake out a good seat.

Banner Elk’s biggest assets are the citizens and town employees. You will find the staff at Banner Elk Town Hall friendly and helpful. The police department is highly professional, and our fire department goes above and beyond.

A lady who rented in Banner Elk for the summer hurt her back and could not pack her things to drive home. She wrote to me later with her saga and said that the fire chief himself came and got her packed, put it all in her car and prepared her to drive back to her home off the mountain. That is how we are in Banner Elk. I am confident that most of our Banner Elk folks would have helped her pack. All she would have had to do was ask. Any of our citizens will tell you that life is just better here.

Sincerely, Brenda Lyerly Banner Elk Mayor

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December 2013

Banner Elk My Hometown

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to business in Banner Elk

AVERY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Bret Gardella

O Avery Economic Development Director Bret Gardella PHOTO SUBMITTED

n behalf of the Avery County Economic Development office, I welcome you to Banner Elk. We’re pleased that you’ve made time to get to know us.

Whether you’re a new visitor or frequent guest, looking to relocate or start a business, we know that the friendly folks in Banner Elk will make you feel at home.

Nestled here in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, Banner Elk is a business-friendly community ready to help you

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Avery County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Susan Freeman PHOTO SUBMITTED

he Avery County Chamber of Commerce prides itself on its knowledgeable staff available to help businesses and individuals at our centrally located office open seven days a week.

Whether you are in the market for a romantic dinner for two, a family reunion for 70, lodging, real estate or hiking our many mountain trails, the chamber offers a referral service to suit every need.

The chamber website is a tool for visitors, residents and businesses.

Each member has a “landing page” that can be updated all year round.

Social media is utilized on a daily basis to promote each and every member, and radio, television, print media, billboards, etc. function to reach people on and off the mountain.

Monthly networking events are fun and valuable opportunities to showcase businesses and generate new customers. Our festivals,

succeed. With its current mix of eclectic, quaint shops and award-winning restaurants, Banner Elk is also the home of the new Avery County Professional and Retail Incubator Development Enterprise (A.C. P.R.I.D.E.).

In the A.C. P.R.I.D.E., our commitment extends beyond offering you a place to “hang your shingle;” we’ll help you at every step to start, build and grow your business into the success you deserve. From training and education to marketing and outreach we’ll offer you professional guid-

ance from experienced specialists in the business world because your business success is our business mission.

So if you’re ready to explore your entrepreneurial endeavors, we’re ready to help.

Please call us at the development office at (828) 737-5150.

Thank you again for your interest.

Sincerely, Bret Gardella Avery Economic Development Director

AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Susan Freeman

art shows, shows trolley tours and events bring tourism and local dollars to stimulate the economy in Avery County. Our partnerships with local businesses, ski resorts and North Carolina state government organizations allows the chamber to stay on top of changing trends allowing members to reap benefits from far and wide no matter which season we are enjoying here in the High Country. It’s no wonder our motto is “What can we do for you?”

Visit us at 4501 Tynecastle Highway, Unit No. 2, in the Tynecastle Shops, open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call us at (828) 898-5605. Join today and let our enthusiastic team work for you!

The Avery Chamber of Commerce Open for business 24/7 meeting our business partners needs.

Bringing the world to your doorstep

one piece at a time.

Sincerely,

4501 Tynecastle HWY, Unit #2 Intersection of NC 105 & NC 184 Banner Elk, NC

Susan Freeman Avery County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

828-898-5605 • 800-972-2183

www.averycounty.com

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Banner Elk My Hometown

December 2013

to Banner Elk’s college, Lees-McRae

LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE PRESIDENT

Dr. Barry M. Buxton

Dr. Barry M. Buxton, 15th president of Lees-McRae College, and his wife, Deborah Keyes Buxton, an artist.

PHOTO COURTESY LMC

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s natives of this region, Debbie and I are grateful to have the opportunity to serve Lees-McRae College and to live in Avery County. From our perspective, there is no more beautiful

and soulful place than Banner Elk. At Lees-McRae College, we are dedicated to the intellectual, spiritual and physical growth of our students. The college is committed to providing a quality,

values-based education, inspiring and enabling individuals to contribute to a changing society with integrity and civic responsibility.

While there are many distinguishing characteristics of Lees-McRae College, none is more important than location. At 3,740 feet above sea level, we are the highest campus in the eastern United States. With a campus of more than 460 acres, LeesMcRae is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream graced with forests, rivers, lakes and fields near the base of Beech Mountain, with Grandfather Mountain and Sugar Mountain, the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests and the Linville Gorge Wilderness nearby. Our

natural ecosystems are among the most diverse in the world and serve as laboratories for study in many disciplines.

The beautiful native stone buildings that grace our campus date back to the early 1900s. We are dedicated to their preservation and adaptive reuse. As a matter of fact, the college recently received the Caraway Award from the State of North Carolina for our preservation efforts. I encourage you to visit the Lees-McRae campus and experience the beauty for yourself. Take a campus tour, meet our dedicated faculty and staff and talk with some of our amazing students who come from all across the globe. Stop

by the historic Mill Pond and Cheese House (visitor center) and learn more about our history.

Tour the Dianne and Dan May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center on the Elk River and see firsthand this unique academic program.

Attend some of our highly acclaimed theatre productions or stop in our sports complex and experience the excitement of our student-athletes as they compete in 15 different NCAA sports.

We are grateful and we are blessed at Lees-McRae College.

Sincerely, Dr. Barry M. Buxton LMC President

The Rev. Edgar Tufts founded Lees-McRae in 1900, arriving three years earlier on the orders of Virginia’s Union Theological Seminary to organize a Presbyterian church in Banner Elk. Lees-McRae Institute became Lees-McRae College in 1931, an accredited co-ed junior college, and then transitioned to a senior (four-year) college in 1990.

Tufts served the Banner Elk community until his death in 1923.

PHOTO BY SAM CALHOUN

December 2013

Banner Elk My Hometown

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Banner Ba Elk My Hometown

to our top-tier education system

December 2013

ACS SUPERINTENDENT

Dr. David Burleson school serves as the Professional Development School for Lees-McRae College and is part of the Appalachian State University Public School Partnership.

Many wonderful events and activities occur throughout the year at Banner Elk School. FaACS Superintendent Dr. David Burleson, with wife, Beth. vorites include an annual Fall Fling supported PHOTO SUBMITTED by a very involved Parent Teacher Organization, an annual Christmas school and community program and a spring parent night that focuses on litanner Elk School, located in the beautiful comeracy and on preparing for the end-of-grade assessments. munity of Banner Elk, enrolls 175 pre-kinderBES is an Arts A+ school that embraces the integration of garten through fifth-grade students. The school the arts into curriculum and annually supports an artist in community strives daily to fulfill their mission residency program. During the 2011-12 school year, Amy to provide a safe, secure environment that is essential to Cooke and Barbara Timberman, local artists, focused on learning and prepare all students to become responsible art creations from lessons about birds and their behavior. citizens, life-long learners and to be globally prepared for The artist in residency program was made possible by a life in the 21st century. generous grant from Banner Elk Kiwanis Club.

Banner Elk Elementary School opened its doors for the Banner Elk Elementary School is one of eight schools first time in fall 2011. This new state-of-the-art facility ofin Avery County. There are a total of five elementary and fers geothermal heating, a full-size gym, spacious classtwo middle schools, and one Avery High School — all fully rooms with ample storage and an abundance of natural lighting for each classroom. The new building is a wonder- accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Avery County Schools is proud to be ranked No. ful asset for both the school and the community. BES was 4 in the state for achieving a 90.1 percent graduation rate. the first school to participate in the one-to-one initiative Through diligent work of quality professionals, caring for Avery County Schools and was instrumental in leading parents and supportive community, students are attendthe way for a district-wide initiative to provide an iPad for ing school with conviction. Five schools earned their highevery student in grades kindergarten through fifth and est attendance rates ever during the 2011-12 school year, a MacBook Air for students in grades six through 12. In equaling 4,000 more student days in school. addition to providing quality education for students, the

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Our students continue to surpass state averages in nearly every EOG/EOC-tested area, and rank consistently above the average of the Northwest Region. Based on recently released test results, our school system performed well on the End-of-Grade and End-of-Course tests. Avery County Schools has achieved some of the highest proficiency ever and our growth status has improved from last year.

ACS believes that our children are our greatest resource and the key to a productive future. Our educational pathway begins with a Five Star state-funded pre-kindergarten program, and aggressively strives to meet the needs of each student. Avery Middle and Cranberry Middle schools are Arts A+ schools. Each focus on basic learning skills so that students will enter high school with a solid academic foundation. Avery High School, home of the Vikings, is dedicating to assisting each student in gradating college and career ready.

As Avery County Schools moves forward into an exciting future, we aspire to become a national model of education graduating every student globally prepared for life in the 21st century. For more information, click to www. averyschools.net.

Sincerely, Dr. David Burleson Avery County Schools Superintendent

Avery County Schools Four Year Cohort Graduation Rate: 90.1%, Fourth in the State Vision: to become a national model of education Mission: to graduate every student from high school globally prepared for life in the 21st century through supportive relationships with students, parents, and community “Our schools and administrators offer programs, innovative classes, extra-curricular activities and the latest technology to every student. WE believe in meeting the need of each student, helping them to discover their talents and abilities so they will be abler to pursue their dreams upon graduation.”

David Burleson, ACS Superintendent All Avery County Schools are fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• 8 Schools: 5 elementary, 2 middle and one Avery High School • Total Enrollment: 2,221 • Highly Qualified Teachers: 99.4% • 2013 Graduates: 137 • One to One District-wide: All students: grades K-5, an iPad - grades 6-12, Macbook • 100+ Volunteers District-wide • 6 Five Star State-Funded NC Pre-K Programs

Banner Elk School is home to 175 pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students, and serves as the Professional Development School for Lees-McRae College and is part of the Appalachian State University Public School Partnership.

PHOTO BY SAM CALHOUN

December 2013

Banner Elk My Hometown

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g n i k o o L n o k c a b

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anner Elk has a rich history that is preserved both on paper and through oral tradition.

Plenty of old-timers are willing to tell stories of how things used to be, and the Banner House Museum offers a wealth of information on the town’s namesake, the Banner Family.

The archeological record shows that the high, but fertile, valley of the Elk River was first explored by Cherokee Indians, who most likely used the area as a hunting ground, rather than as a permanent settlement.

The first white settlers recorded to have come to the area were Delilah Baird and John Holtsclaw, who claimed 480 acres in 1825.

The head of the family for which the town would eventually be named, Martin L. Banner, arrived in 1848. Arriving near the same time period were families bearing other familiar names, including Moody, Dugger, Abrams, Von Canon, Keller, Smith, Lineback and Foster.

Though the area was still practically frontier country at the time that Banner arrived, only 44 years later, in 1892, the community then known as Banner’s Elk, established a hotel to serve the growing number of visitors to the area, a trend that eventually led to a vital tourism industry in the early 1900s.

Less than two decades later, in 1911, the town was officially incorporated as Banner Elk. The area has seen many changes in industry of the years, shifting focus from subsistence farming to production crops to Christmas trees, and all the while providing tourists with an immaculate experience of the High Country.

Though the history if Banner Elk is not particularly long, it is full of fantastic characters, dramatic twists and the flavor of the High Country.

To learn more about Banner Elk’s history, visit Banner House museum or click to www.bannerhousemuseum. org. The museum’s hours change seasonally, so call ahead, at (828) 8983634 to plan your visit.

(Above) Von Cannon’s Ford dealership in Banner Elk.

The Rev. Edgar Tufts founded Lees-McRae in 1900, arriving three years earlier on the orders of Virginia’s Union Theological Seminary to organize a Presbyterian church in Banner Elk. Lees-McRae Institute became Lees-McRae College in 1931, an accredited co-ed junior college, and then transitioned to a senior (four-year) college in 1990. Tufts served the Banner Elk community until his death in 1923.

The weaving room at Lees-McRae College in the early 1900s.

PHOTOS COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

Polly Presnell poses in front of Banner Elk’s Grace Hospital in 1935.

(Above) Banner Elk, a once remote Appalachian community, is the home of major and ongoing missions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Three church related institutions – Lees-McRae College, Grandfather Home and Orphanage and Grace (now Cannon) Hospital, pictured – were established around the turn of the century, primarily through the efforts of the Presbyterian Church, U.S., and the Rev. Edgar Tufts.

In 1923, a makeshift hospital in Banner Elk was averaging five patients per night and the need for more space was critical.

Helen Hartley Jenkins donated $22,000 to build a 25-bed hospital, which was named after her sister, Grace. According to historical archives, the new hospital had running water, electricity and a coal-fired furnace.

The kitchen was on the first floor along with living quarters for the director of nursing and the dietitian. Patient rooms were on the second and third floors and the operating room and nurses’ quarters were on the top floor.

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Banner Elk My Hometown

December 2013

the home of outdoor sports JUSTIN GRIMES

I

AVERYJOURNALIST@GMAIL.COM

f Thornton Wilder had chosen Banner Elk as the guide for his great play “Our Town,” most likely all the characters would have been outdoor sports enthusiasts. Few places on earth can compete with the plethora outdoor activities available to people of all ages right out the front doors of the village.

From the backyards of Banner Elk residents, hiking, canoeing, championship biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, bear and dear and wild-turkey hunting, fly fishing, swimming, golfing, marathon running, horseback riding, caving, hang-gliding, snowboarding, skiing, snow-tubing and snowshoeing are only a stones throw away.

In fact, one can cast for native trout within the town limits in crystal clear creeks originating up high on the slopes of Beech and Sugar mountains. Hiking trails begin in the

village, too.

This abundance fuels the local economy year-round as thousands of visitors flock to the hamlet and enjoy the sport’s paradise.

During winter, Sugar and Beech mountains, which tower above Main Street, provide a winter wonderland of snowsports.

It’s not uncommon to find a PhD tuning skis at the resorts or in a local ski shop; having traded a past life for the grandeur of the highest Appalachians.

As well as serving the piedmont populations of the Southeastern states, the resorts attract an international clientele from all over the world. A local ski instructor kept track last winter and reported that his clients came from more than 50 countries.

Minutes away, the venerable Grandfather Mountain and state park dominates the landscape, providing it’s own Mecca of outdoor challenges, exhilarating climbs and breathtaking views.

In summer, professional and amateur

Sugar and Beech provide a winter wonderland for snowsports.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

highland athletes from all over converge to compete in the Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.

World-class downhill bikers participate in several local events annually and the Lees-McRae College downhillers are known nationwide for their winning competitive skills.

Waitresses can tell you about serving the many visiting bicyclists who use the area’s steeps to train for the Tour de France.

Private and public golf clubs are a golf cart’s ride away from the center of town.

It’s not uncommon to see helicopters overhead ferrying club members or private planes landing, delivering patrons to the area’s exclusive golf communities.

Both Beech and Sugar mountains have challenging golf courses that are open to the public.

Wildcat Lake, a comfortable bike or horse ride from town, offers swimming, canoeing, picnic facilities, a playground, volleyball and a beach. Sailors, boat fishermen, water skiers and houseboat owners can travel in about 30 minutes from Banner Elk to the grand and huge TVA Watauga Lake, located near the Tennessee state line.

If you are a world-class athletic looking for a challenge or someone just wanting a stroll through the Rhododendron, Banner Elk is the place you want to be; with this one caution: when a resident of Banner Elk talks about racing, they mean “Wacing.”

Every October, more than 20,000 people attend Banner Elk’s Woolly Worm Festival.

The event features thousands of competing woolly worms “wacing” up strings for prizes.

When the Weather Outside is Frightful...

Inside it’s so Delightful Lunch • Dinner • Sunday Brunch • Wine Tasting (Check Website for Current Hours & Menus) Reservations: 828-963-6301 Restaurant & Winery • Valle Crucis

See Full Menu & Hours at 1861Farmhouse.com • 828-963-6301

Kim Jochl and Erich Schmidinger carve fresh tracks on Sugar’s Northridge slope.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

December 2013

Banner Elk My Hometown

Saying

IT’S A GREAT TIME TO CALL BANNER ELK HOME

to good buys JAMIE SHELL

JAMIE.SHELL@AVERYJOURNAL.COM

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s the secret of the picturesque High Country as a permanent destination continues to spread, it is only natural that after spending time here, plans to call Banner Elk and the surrounding area home abound.

The real estate market in Banner Elk and the High Country continues to rebound in recent years. In fact, sales reached a threeyear high in summer 2012, according to High Country Association of Realtors.

“Summer is traditionally a strong buying tion season with an additional market influx in the fall,” said Laurie Phillips, executive officer of High Country Association of Realtors.

Realtor “With low interest rates and a solid inventory, we are seeing inven more buyers looking to invest in the High Country.”

According to John Davis, owner and broker at Banner Elk Realty, located in the heart of town at 415 Shawneehaw Avenue, the real estate market for local homes and properties in the past year has thrived.

“This year has been better sales numbers-wise than last. We truly think Banner Elk is on the upswing. There is plenty of inventory for sale, so we feel we are climbing back from the economic downturn that occurred several years ago,” Davis said.

In addition, Davis cited a number of intriguing factors for visitors flocking to the High Country and to Banner Elk to establish new homes, whether seasonal or fulltime.

“Banner Elk has lots of exciting things going on, including the building of the nursing facility at Lees-McRae College.

Not only that, but there are all the outdoor

A place for all

. . s n o s a e S SAM CALHOUN

SAM.CALHOUN@AVERYJOURNAL.COM

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hen Banner Elk and the surrounding area became an even-more popular recreation destination in the 1960s and 1970s, it was marketed nationally as “a place for all seasons,” and aptly so, as it remains one of the few locales in North Carolina with four distinct climates and evolving scenery throughout the year.

Nearing 4,000-feet above sea level, Banner Elk’s temperatures average 15- to 20-degrees cooler than off the mountain, resulting in amazingly pleasant summer temperatures that draw visitors, summer homeowners and outdoor sports enthusiasts from all over the United States and world. That same temperature differential

means a winter climate ideal for natural snowfall (Banner Elk usually receives approximately 45 inches of natural snow per winter) and for blowing manmade snow, a crucial element for the local ski slopes. Historically, winter temperatures in Banner Elk remain near or below freezing during the day, but recent winters have been slightly warmer, with daytime temps averaging between 35 and 40 degrees.

Banner Elk is framed with high peaks and rolling hills, and home to hundreds of species of flora and trees, which all combine to create a show of blossoming life in the spring and a colorful tapestry in autumn, everywhere you look.

Temperatures in Banner Elk are so pleasant throughout the spring, summer and fall, in fact, that most homes, until recently, were built without air conditioning — a striking fact, given the sweltering heat of the surrounding lowlands.

activities available to folks that inhabit and surround Banner Elk, such as the best skiing in the southern United States,” Davis added. “The real estate market has plenty of opportunities available. Prices have not started rising as they have in other areas in the United States, as we normally lag a year or two behind. Plenty of very good buys are available in Banner Elk for folks who are looking either for fulltime purchase or a second home.”

The prime opportunity to purchase real estate or a home in Banner Elk has become part of a growing trend in prosperity among the market. With sales increasing over the course of more than two years, experts like Davis believe now is as good a time as ever to consider finding that home of your dreams.

“We feel the trend is upward from here as the customer looking for real estate in our area becomes more optimistic and our national economy continues to strengthen, we believe that bodes well for not only our recent past, but for our future sales,” Davis explained.

Although average rates on 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages have only slightly risen in the past year to slightly above four

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percent, Davis explained that the rates are still historically low for potential buyers to get a great deal on whatever they are looking for in the market. Davis also added that increased opportunity for purchase exists whether a buyer seeks property or a home in a secluded, private setting or in the middle of town.

“We’re definitely seeing an increase in new construction activity, although certainly not at the levels before the housing bubble burst in the last decade. More construction is occurring, and we expect that to climb going forward,” Davis said.

“There are many wonderful buys in existing homes in our inventory for sale, both in private or semi-private, gated communities like Grandfather, Elk River and Linville Ridge, in addition to properties that are not private communities, those that are intown Banner Elk proper or over in Sugar Mountain or Beech Mountain. There is an increase in sales across the board.”

For more information on local real estate opportunities, call Davis at (828) 898-5697, click to www.bannerelkrealty. com or visit the High Country Association of Realtors’ website by clicking to www. highcountryrealtors.org.

IT’S NOT JUST KID STUFF Although, the kid stuff is pretty awesome, too!

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

WILLIAMS YMCA OF AVERY COUNTY

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December 2013

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WINTER SAVINGS

EVENT!

TM

JUST ARRIVED England’s Leonard Recliner #19331AL

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December 2013

Bite into

k l E r e n n Ba COMPILED BY CAROLINE HARRIS CAROLINE.HARRIS@AVERYJOURNAL.COM

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anner Elk offers a surprising number of dining options for its small-town size. You can grab a burger and a pint, enjoy the latest culinary masterpiece of a worldrenowned chef or chow down on some authentic international cuisine.

Some restaurants in Banner Elk change their hours seasonally, so call ahead before making dinner plans.

Artisanal

1200 Dobbins Road (828) 898-5395 www.artisanalnc.com For those seeking the elegance of an upscale experience, Artisanal is the restaurant of choice.

With daily menu changes to reflect the availability of the finest ingredients, Anita and Bill Greene take pride in creating a memorable experience down to the finest detail.

Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery

119 Central Way (828) 898-4040 Settled squarely in the heart of downtown, Ban-

ner Elk Cafe is ready and able to serve up three meals each day, ensuring that diners can always have a destination in Banner Elk, no matter the time or season. The Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery adds a coffee-house atmosphere along with a selection of coffees, drinks, fresh-baked goods and gourmet food.

Barra Wings Cafe and Sports Bar

140 Azalea Circle (828) 898-7727 www.bannerelkbarra.com With seven flat-screen televisions mounted around a room filled with comfortable leather couches and Boston-style wood bar, Barra Wings Cafe and Sports Bar is the place to sit back and watch the game with friends in style.

Bayou Smokehouse and Grill

130 Main Street East (828) 898-8952 www.bayousmokehouse.com Bayou Smokehouse and Grill is the place for a good time in Cajun style, offering everything

The Sugarfoot Shops at the base of Sugar Mountain is home to Scott’s Pizza Place and The Painted Fish Cafe, as well as other local businesses.

PHOTO BY SAM CALHOUN

guests need to eat, play and shop under one roof. In addition to deep-Southern style food, Bayou Smokehouse and Grill maintains a general store where visitors can lay claim to any of dozens of hot sauces, local crafts and North Carolina and Louisiana gourmet cooking ingredients.

Bella’s Italian Restaurant

3585 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9022 www.bellasofbannerelk.com Bella’s carries on a tradition of neighborhood Italian restaurants with something for everyone. From chicken marsala to lasagna to pizza, Bella’s offers a wide variety of crowd pleasers as well as catering to sophisticated tastes.

The Bird House Cafe

2989 #2 Tynecastle Highway The Bird House Cafe offers breakfast and lunch with a “bird’s eye” view of Sugar Mountain. Stop in for the veggie omelet wrap, chili or just a cup of coffee.

Cam Ranh Bay

110 High Country Square (828) 898-4121 Cam Ranh Bay offers authentic Vietnamese and Japanese food served in a modern, American way.

China House

3581 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-3533

Dunn’s Deli

Shop maintains a relaxed atmosphere with the help of open-mic nights on Fridays and Saturdays. Whether they are on the lookout for an early morning pick-me-up or a late evening jam session, visitors can find what they are looking for at Fred and Larry’s.

The Frog and the Monkey

128 Banner Road (828) 898-3764 A recent edition to the Banner Elk dining scene, The Frog and Monkey has been welcomed by discerning diners of the High Country.

Lil D’s Sugar on Top

3440 Tynecastle Highway (828) 260-6567 Lil D’s Sugar on Top offers coffee, desserts and baked goods made in-house, all with a view of Sugar Mountain.

Louisiana Purchase Food and Spirits

397 Shawneehaw Avenue (866) 734-4124 www.louisianapurchasefoodandspirits.com Since 1984, Louisiana Purchase has provided Sorrento’s Italian Bistro offers traBanner Elk’s residents ditional Italian fare in a relaxed but and visitors with an elegant atmosphere. appetizing assortment of Cajun, Creole, French and Northern Italian cuisine. Seasonal selections and an award-winning wine list add variety to a menu that has garnered Louisiana Purchase a three-diamond AAA-rating.

134 Main Street West (828) 898-6731 www.dunns-deli.com Mike Dunn makes his sandwiches to order from high quality ingredients, and he makes them overstuffed, a perfect companion to a relaxing bottle of beer, bowl of soup or cup of coffee.

Dunn’s Deli is easy to find at the crossroads of downtown Banner Elk.

Fred and Larry’s Coffee Shop

3591 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-2110 In addition to an ever-updating list of coffees, teas and fresh pastries, Fred and Larry’s Coffee

Mountain Grounds Coffee and Tea Company

Suite 10, 3390 Highway 105 (828) 898-5878 www.mountaingrounds.com Looking up at Grandfather Mountain, Mountain Grounds Coffee and Tea Company offers a lodgestyle shop with a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for warming up on a winter’s day or relaxing after a long day hiking or skiing the local slopes.

Mountain Grounds maintains a full staff of fully trained baristas to guide guests through a comprehensive menu of coffee and tea choices.

SEE BITE INTO, PAGE 13

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Banner Elk My Hometown

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The Fron and the Monkey and Bellas are a few of Banner Elk’s eclectic dining options.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

BITE INTO: FROM PAGE 12

Nick’s Restaurant and Pub

4527 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9613 www.nicksrestaurantandpub.com After more than 25 years in business, Nick’s Restaurant and Pub knows a thing or two about how to give their guests the casual, relaxed dining experience they are looking for. Visitors can always stop in for lunch, dinner, drinks or to watch the game on one of Nick’s big screens.

Friday night is Karaoke starting at 8 p.m.

The Painted Fish Cafe and Beer Bar

2941 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-6800 www.paintedfishcafe.com Great food with fun beer and superb wines is the combination The Painted Fish looks to offer guests. Guests can always expect to find familiar dishes with a new twist to keep them exciting.

Puerto Nuevo

2120 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-3332 www.puertonuevonc.com

With authentic Mexican cuisine, a full bar and a fun, stylish atmosphere, Puerto Nuevo offers a complete Mexican dining experience. Puerto Nuevo features a full bar with two big screen televisions and a separate banquet hall for large events.

Scott’s Pizza Place

2591 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-4646 Offering dine in, take out and even delivery to Banner Elk, Sugar Mountain, Tynecastle and surrounding gated communities, Scott’s Pizza Place offers a menu of family favorites, including pizza, calzones, stromboli, wings, subs and spaghetti.

Smokey’s Smoke House

4235 Highway 105 South (828) 898-6777 At Smokey’s Smoke House, the wide selection of barbecue is prepared fresh each and every day, ensuring that guests get only the most tender chicken, pork and brisket around. Those barbecue delights share the menu with other favorites like trout and hamburgers. In addition Smokey’s Smoke House takes orders for carryout turkeys for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Sushi Club

140 Azalea Circle (828) 898-1940 www.bannerelksushiclub.com

Banner Elk’s Sushi Club combines good food and dancing in an atmosphere designed to provide a lively escape.

Sorrento’s Italian Bistro

140 Azalea Circle (828) 898-5214 www.sorrentosbistro.com Although the Sorrento’s menu is a classic array of regional Italian delights, the bistro takes special pride in accommodating large groups for events and parties.

Stonewalls Restaurant

344 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-5550 www.stonewallsrestaurant.com A long-time staple of Banner Elk dining, Stonewalls has developed a reputation over the past

27 years for its prime rib, other specialty steaks and expansive salad bar.

Valle De Bravo Mexican Grill

4501 Tynecastle Highway, Unit 1 (828) 898-4949

Zuzda Tapas Restaurant and Bar

502 Main Street West (828) 898-4166 www.zuzda.com Zuzda provides the unique and creative dining experience of tapas to Banner Elk. With more than 100 items on the menu, Zuzda has something to please any palate all in a relaxed but classy atmosphere.

The expansive menu insures that every trip to Zuzda’s is as unique as you make it.

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Shop

COMPILED BY CAROLINE HARRIS

W

CAROLINE.HARRIS@AVERYJOURNAL.COM

hether shopping out of necessity, pastime or fun, Banner Elk retail stores have got it covered with everything from the essentials to eccentric gifts for the hard-to-shop-for.

You can antique all over town or get outfitted to go skiing, bargain hunt or snag the latest trends.

Window shop through this varied list of Banner Elk stores.

Bayou General Store features a wide selection of beer and wine, as well as gift items and local goods.

Antiques

Those Were the Days

3440 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-5505 www.sugarmountainantiques.com This shop of sundries has more than 4,000 square feet of antiques, collectibles and consignments.

Those Were the Days focuses on the era of the 1940s and 50s, but offers curiosities of all kinds, including a record store.

Clothing Almost Rodeo Drive

146 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-4553 www.almostrodeodrive.com Almost Rodeo Drive is a one-stop shop for upscale ladies’ clothing and accessories, offering distinctive styles to the High Country since 1984.

Banner Elk Consignment Cottage

414 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-5733 Banner Elk Consignment Cottage specializes in classic furniture, art and home goods.

BJ’s Resort Wear

145 Main Street (828) 898-4229 BJ’s Resort Wear offers the latest in ready-to-wear and has been serving the discriminating customer in Banner Elk for more than 33 years.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

The Dande Lion

4501 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-3566 www.dandelionstyles.com The Dande Lion offers fun, flattering fashions, shoes, accessories and gifts, and specializes in personal shopping.

Flora Ottimer Children’s Boutique

4501 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-5112 A fine retailer of children’s apparel and toys since 1945, Flora Ottimer offers classic, high-quality brands that can outlast any rambunctious youngster.

Jewelry Baltzley’s Fine Jewelry

163 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-8883 Baltzley’s Fine Jewelry carries a unique selection of fine European jewelry, gem stones and pearls from around the world, as well as handmade, one-of-akind pieces.

Hardin Fine Jewelry

920 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-4653 Hardin Fine Jewelry features unique gems, dazzling diamonds and eclectic gifts for that special someone, or if you just feel like indulging a little. The elegant jewelry showroom offers precious and semiprecious gemstones in exquisite settings.

SEE SHOP, PAGE 15

December 2013

Banner Elk My Hometown

SHOP:

Pets

FROM PAGE 14

My Best Friend’s Barkery

Specialty Foods

176 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-5625 www.mybestfriendsbarkery.com My Best Friend’s Barkery offers a complete line of quality products for dogs and cats, including highquality foods and recycled, eco-friendly toys.

Avery County Farmers’ Market

Tate Lawn at Lees-McRae College www.averycountyfarmersmarket.org This seasonal, weekly farmers’ market, held on the campus of Lees-McRae college, is an association of area farmers that produce organic and conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. Other wares for sale include jams, jellies, breads, honey, maple syrup, fresh eggs and more.

Skiing Outfitters Alpine Ski Center

3150 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9701 www.alpineskicenter.com

Bayou Smokehouse General Store

130 East Main Street (828) 898-8953 www.bayousmokehouse.com The General Store is stocked with craft beer, wine, gourmet foods, gifts items and local goods. The General Store also offers “wine amnesty,” where a bottle of wine can be purchased at retail cost in the store and enjoyed with your meal in the Bayou restaurant at no extra charge.

Clemmons Produce

1947 Tynecastle Highway Clemmons Produce is the place to get fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers and plants, a wide assortment of gift items for the home and garden and locally made mountain crafts.

Erick’s Cheese and Wine

4004 Highway 105 South (828) 898-9424 www.erickscheeseandwine.com Erick’s Cheese and Wine shop has been a Banner Elk favorite for more than 30 years. Erick’s offers wines at all price points, from highly-rated wines at $10 a bottle to fine wine, as well as a large selection of cheese and specialty foods.

Home and Garden The Great Train Robbery

2120 Tynecastle Highway, Suite 3 (828) 898-8645 Featuring antiques, furnishing, collectibles, art and a little bit of everything, the Great Train Robbery is a one-stop shop to decorate your entire home.

Mountaineer Garden Center Florist and Greenhouses

1735 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-5219 www.mountaingardencenter.com Mountaineer Garden Center has everything you need to keep your garden growing throughout the seasons. The layout is sprawling but organized,

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Edge of the World Mountaineer Garden Center has everything you need to keep your garden in full bloom.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

and easy to shop with lots to look at. In addition to houseplants, shrubs and every garden plant imaginable, there is also outdoor furniture and pottery.

Northern Parker Interiors

4501 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9636 Northern Parker Interiors is a full-service interior design firm and retail shop offering the finest wall coverings, fabrics, furniture and accessories the design trade has to offer, all aimed at maintaining the quintessential comfort of the South.

394 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-9550 www.edgeoftheworld.com Extreme Snowboard and Skis

3071 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-7669 Ski Country Sports

3149 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9787 www.skicountrysports.com Snow Toys

1757 Highway 184 (828) 898-4199 www.snowtoysnc.com

Rustic Rooster

4501 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-5161 www.myrusticrooster.com Specializing in one-of-a-kind antiques, imports and custom-made furniture, Rustic Rooster can custombuild most items according to your exact choice of finishes, hardware and measurements.

Special Additions

3990 Highway 105 South (828) 898-8949 Special Additions features decor, furniture, gifts and unique accessories for the home, in a “mountain elegant” style.

WingN’It

441 Shawneehaw Ave (828) 898-5008 www.wingnitnc.com Located in the distinctive red caboose downtown, WingN’It is an eclectic shop that offers quality products for enthusiastic bird watchers, including birdhouses, birdseed, planters, yard art, garden flags, home linens, jewelry, local artisan crafts and more.

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Big Enough to MATTER MATTER...Small ...Small Enough to CARE 9649 Hwy 105 S • Unit 1 • Banner Elk, NC 28604

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Banner Elk My Hometown

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l a u n n A s t n e v E

Lees-M Lees-McRae Mc cRae Summer Theater Theat iis alwa l ay a yearly l eventt that th always draws lloyal lo patrons back everyy ye year.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

R

esidents in Banner Elk are not an idle sort — they keep their communities alive and vital with concerts, festivals, celebrations, shows, arts and more. Here is a list of annual events to look forward to each year.

SUMMER (beginning mid June) Banner Elk Independence Day Parade

Banner Elk celebrates its independence in style, with a large-scale parade and celebration each year.

Banner Elk Summer Concert Series

Each week throughout the summer, Banner Elk’s Tate-Evan’s Park serves as host to one talented band after another, giving residents the chance to gather and enjoy a lively time.

Fine Arts and Master Craft Festival

Held each year in downtown Banner Elk, the Fine Arts and Master Craft Festival is a celebration of all of the artistic ingenuity in and around the Banner Elk area. The region’s best artists and craftspeople converge on Banner Elk to offer their wares to eager crowds.

Mile-High Kite Festival

Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce hosts a kite festival as part of the town’s Labor Day weekend festivities. Established kite clubs attend the festival each year, bringing their astounding kites and expertise.

Lees-McRae Summer Theater Lees-McRae Summer Theater is a professional company dedicated to producing three large-scale musicals each summer. The plays are always presented in Hayes Auditorium on the campus of Lees-McRae College.

SugarBrew

Sugar Mountain Resort offers this yearly festival and competition as an opportunity to sample craft beer, wine and spirits and listen to live music by local favorites. Breweries, wineries and distilleries

from North Carolina and beyond submit their brews to win Best in Show.

AUTUMN (beginning mid September) Woolly Worm Festival

For those who are not familiar with Banner Elk’s Woolly Worm Festival, it is exactly what it sounds like, a festival dedicated to celebrating, collecting and racing woolly worms. One of the regions biggest festivals, the event features cash prizes for woolly worm races, an international variety of food vendors, dozens of craft vendors and live music.

Autumn at Oz

In 1970, Land of Oz opened on top of Beech Mountain. Though the popular park was ultimately lost, it touched the lives of many. Now, former employees and dedicated fans reopen the park one weekend each year to give guests a chance to see the world of Oz.

Oktoberfest

Sugar Mountain’s Oktoberfest includes all of the staples of a proper Oktoberfest, an Oom Pah band, handmade crafts, Bavarian Cuisine and, of course, plenty of beer.

SugarFest

Late in autumn each year, Sugar Mountain Resort hosts SugarFest, a grand kickoff to the winter ski season. To get people in the skiing state of mind SugarFest includes ski clinics with Olympians, ice skating, gourmet food tastings, fireworks and more.

Trunk or Treat

The annual Trunk or Treat is a fun Halloween event for kids of all ages. Taking place in front of the old Banner Elk elementary school, businesses and individuals decorate the trunks of their cars and give out candy, so kids can “trunk” or treat as an alternative to going door-to-door. Also features a costume contest, face-painting, a haunted hayride and more. It’s spooky fun for the whole family.

Christmas in the Park

An event that grows each year, the highlight is the nighttime Parade of Lights. Participate in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, take a horsedrawn carriage ride through the park or take advantage of one of the many fun activities for the kids.

December 2013

Banner Elk My y Hometown

y t n e l p Arts A

Artistic expression present throughout Banner Elk JAMIE SHELL

JAMIE.SHELL@AVERYJOURNAL.COM

T

he very word “arts” can take numerous forms. Whether it’s a guitarist on a stage, a painter working for hours at a time with his easel on a future masterpiece or actors bringing classic works to life through theater, the arts are alive and well in Banner Elk. The landscape and rural settings surrounding Banner Elk draws artists from around the world to the High Country. The addition of Lees-McRae College’s performing arts productions and Summer Theater programs means that Banner Elk will always have a cultural, artistic experience ready to share with residents and guests.

While a great many Banner Elk shops feature the art and craft of local artists, many of the area’s finest artists choose The Art Cellar and The Clark Gallery as settings for their work.

A walk in the

k r a P

F

JAMIE SHELL

JAMIE.SHELL@AVERYJOURNAL.COM

or a time of relaxation, a petfriendly environment, or simply somewhere to take time to see nature or get a little exercise, TateEvans Town Park offers myriad possibilities when it comes to personal and family entertainment.

Tate-Evans Town Park is a striking symbol of the dedication of the town of Banner Elk to providing its residents with the best in public services, including recreation.

Rather serving any single purpose, TateEvans Town Park is designed to be used for a number of purposes and events, and the residents of Banner Elk put it to good use.

While Tate-Evans Park provides a setting for a variety of familiar, family-oriented outdoor activities, including a walking trail, wading pools, volleyball court, picnic tables, picnic shelter, a dogpark, a playground area for smaller children and the renowned Fort VonCanon for more active children, the park also serves as a venue

The Art Cellar has provided a venue for artists for more than two decades. Featuring a fine art gallery displaying paintings, pottery and sculptures created by the High Country’s finest artists, The Art Cellar also includes an ample supply of local folk art.

For more information on The Art Cellar, including a list of featured artists, click to www.artcellaronline.com.

Located in downtown Banner Elk beside the acclaimed Louisiana Purchase restaurant, Clark Gallery has provided Banner Elk residents and guests with access to the best in painting and sculpture since 2001. Gallery owner and artist Chris Clark compiled his expertise from years of travel and collecting, combined with a formal education in art and art history. For more information on Clark Gallery, click to www.clarkgallerync.com.

Aficionados of the stage must make it a priority to visit Lees-McRae College and its nationally renowned performing arts department and productions. LMC pro-

for a variety of exciting scheduled events sponsored by the town, local organizations and businesses.

Tate-Evans Town Park includes an amphitheatre that plays host to Banner Elk Concerts in the Park each Thursday night beginning in June.

A variety of other festivities are also centered around the park, including Fourth of July celebrations, the annual gathering around the campfire (a final farewell to summer), a Spook-tacular event at Halloween, the annual Christmas in the Park and Tree Lighting, caroling and various public classes.

In addition to community events, families often take advantage of the park’s many facilities, which include restrooms open from April to September. Banner Elk families regularly host birthday parties, reunions and weddings at different sites around the park’s beautiful grounds. Town leaders recognized the popularity of TateEvans Town Park and sought to further enhance the facility earlier this year when it approved the construction of new public restrooms and picnic shelter on the grounds, scheduled for completion by Spring 2014.

While Tate-Evans Park and its walking trails meander near much of downtown Banner Elk, the most direct entrance is right next to Banner Elk Town Hall, located at 200 Park Avenue.

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vides both productions from its performing arts departments and its Summer Theater.

Each semester, LMC’s performing arts students put on a new production, sometimes reaching back to classics like “Anything Goes,” and sometimes keeping the productions more contemporary, such as with its recent production of “The Ash Girl.”

When the students are away for summer, the auditorium does not lay idle; LMC Summer Theater takes over to provide three musical productions. Lees-McRae Summer Theater is a professional company dedicated to producing three large-scale musicals each summer. The plays are always presented in Hayes Auditorium on the campus of Lees-McRae College.

For a great example of functional art, one look no farther than Blue Mountain Metal Works by visiting its Banner Elk gallery or by clicking to www.bluemountainmetalworks.com. Owner Dirk Brown gained experience first at ASU and then through working at Charleston Forge before setting out on his own to become one of Banner Elk’s premier sculptors of steel and other

metals. Gates, railings, fire screens, decorations and other metal creations can be found or commissioned by visiting Brown in Banner Elk. For those who love to take a virtual walk back in time to catch a glimpse of Banner Elk’s humble beginnings and rich history, a visit to Banner House Museum is a must.

Located at 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Road in Banner Elk, Banner House Museum is located in the 19th century home of Samuel Henry Banner, one of Banner Elk’s original settlers. The museum hosts daily guided tours mid-June through mid-October by volunteer docents who introduce guests to life in the 1800s.

For more information, call (828) 8983634, or click to www.bannerhousemuseum.org.

Banner Elk is a town that embraces the arts throughout the calendar year. For residents, endless opportunities abound to explore the work of creative minds, while for visitors it means there is always some new masterpiece ready to be experienced whenever their visit falls.

28604

Live Here

Banner Elk, in Avery County, North Carolina is located in the mountains of

Banner Elk is in the center of The High Country and is the ski capitol of the South. This is the destination for thousands of people who love the great outdoors and southern culture. The main attraction is the very agreeable climate, the local citizens, and the year-round activities found in the high country. Many gated communities can be found nestled in Banner Elk’s countryside. and unique shops found in town, Banner Elk offers much for the seasonal vacationer as well as for our temporary and permanent residents.

Carolina Mountains. Our local residents comprise the area's largest growing number of professionals, service personnel, and skilled trades people.

Come visit Banner Elk... and who knows, you just might stay!

Town of Banner Elk 200 Park Avenue PO Box 2049 Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-5398 www.townofbannerelk.org

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December 2013

Banner Elk

s r e b m u N

Fire, Rescue, Police in Emergency:

911

Town of Banner Elk:

(828) 898-5398

Avery County Chamber of Commerce:

(828) 898-5605 / (800) 972-2183

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce:

(828) 898-8395

Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce:

(828) 387-9283

The Avery Journal-Times newspaper:

(828) 733-2448 / (828) 733-0401 (classifieds)

Banner House Museum:

(828) 898-3634

Banner Elk Town Hall:

(828) 898-5398

Banner Elk Police Department:

(828) 898-4300

Banner Elk Fire Department:

(828) 898-4623

Banner Elk Exxon:

(828) 898-5210

Lees-McRae College:

(828) 898-5241

Avery County Sheriff’s Office:

(828) 733-2071

Avery County Schools:

(828) 733-6006

Cannon Memorial Hospital:

(828) 737-7000

Mountain Electric Cooperative:

(828) 733-0159

Williams YMCA of Avery County:

(828) 737-5500

Beech Mountain Resort:

(828) 387-2011

Beech Mountain Police Department:

(828) 387-2342

Sugar Mountain Resort:

(828) 898-4521

Sugar Mountain Police Department:

(828) 898-4349

Avery County Board of Elections:

(828) 733-8282

Avery County Emergency Management/Burn Permits: (828) 733-8213 Avery County Communications/911 Office:

(828) 733-5855

Avery County Board of Commissioners Office:

(828) 733-8212

Avery County Emergency Medical Services:

(828) 733-8286

Avery County Health Department:

(828) 733-6031

Avery County Mapping:

(828) 733-7001

Avery County Planning Department:

(828) 733-8204

Avery County Register of Deeds:

(828) 733-8260

Avery County Parks and Recreation:

(828) 733-8266

Avery County Social Services:

(828) 733-8230

Avery County Senior Services:

(828) 733-8220

Avery County Solid Waste:

(828) 737-5420

Avery County Tax Office:

(828) 733-8214

Avery County Transportation Department:

(828) 733-0005

Avery County Veteran’s Services:

(828) 733-8211

Avery County Museum:

(828) 733-7111

f o s e c Pla

p i h s r Wo

Aaron Baptist Church All Saints Mission Altamont United Methodist Arbor Dale Presbyterian Avery United Methodist Banner Elk Church of Christ Banner Elk Presbyterian Banner Elk Seventh Adventist Banner Elk United Methodist Beech Mountain Baptist Belview Baptist Church Big Meadows Baptist Chapel In The Woods Chestnut Dale Baptist Church of Jesus Christ Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church of the Savior Crab Orchard FWB Cranberry Baptist Crossnore Baptist Crossnore Presbyterian Curtis Creek Baptist Elk Mountain FWB

Elk Park Baptist Elk Park Christian Elk Park United Methodist Emmanuel Baptist Evangelical Methodist Faith Baptist Fall Creek Baptist Fellowship Baptist Fellowship Presbyterian First Baptist Church Forest Home Community Fletcher Presbyterian Green Valley Baptist Heaton Christian Henson Creek Baptist Ivey Heights FWB Jehovah’s Witnesses Jonas Ridge Baptist Linville Falls Community Church Linville United Methodist Midway Holiness Church Minneapolis Baptist Minneapolis Christian Minneapolis Methodist

clubs and organizations Appalachian Women’s Fund APPEL — Avery Partnership for People at the End of Life Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens Avery County Cooperative Extension Avery County Farmers’ Market Avery County Habitat for Humanity Avery County Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Avery County Historical Museum Avery County Humane Society Avery County JobLink Avery County Pregnancy and Resource Center Avery County Shrine Club Avery Smooth Dancers and Mt. Laurel Booster Club Banner House Museum Beech Mountain Club Beech Mountain Community Club Beech Mountain Bike Club

in Banner Elk and Avery County

Mt. Calvary Baptist Mt. Pleasant Baptist Mountain View FWB Newland Christian Newland Presbyterian Newland United Methodist Open Door Baptist Pineola Baptist Pineola Church of God Pineola Presbyterian Pleasant Hill Baptist Plumtree Presbyterian Powdermill Baptist Roaring Creek Baptist Roaring Creek FWB St. Bernadette Catholic Stamey Town Baptist Sugar Mountain Baptist Yellow Mountain Baptist Vale FWB Victory Baptist Walnut Grove Presbyterian

Disabled American Veterans Chapter 87 Grandfather Home for Children High Country Caregivers Foundation High Country Women’s Fund High Country United Way Holston Center Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk MAY Coalition OASIS Rotary Club of Avery County VFW Pat Ray Post 4286 Volunteer Avery County and Community Service

December 2013

Banner Elk My Hometown

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December 2013