All About Women - October 2009

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Sue Freeman is “Miss Merry Weather” Page 24 Roy Krege – “Mr. Woolly Worm” Page 32

Don’t Miss

Meet the Woolly Worm Women Page 38

Page 28

October 2009

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2 OCTOBER 2009

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828-355-9755 703 W. King Street, Boone NC Across From The Downtown Post Office OCTOBER 2009 3

Table of

Contents PUBLISHER Nancy Morrison nancy.morrison@averyjournal.com 828-733-2448 editor Sherrie Norris sherrie@aawmag.com 828-264-3612 ext. 251 MARKETING CONSULTANTs Jennifer Walker Jon Davis, Sue Moore, Crystal Owens, Sandy Russell, Amanda Swartz

Graphic Designer Dan Johnston

In every issue 8 Women In Education PROFILES / FEATURES 6 10

13 18 22

36

Girls On The Run Reinvented By The Raspberry Bushes Boone Service League Domestic Abuse Belly Dancing For The Health Of It Haunted Mill Trail Of Terror Returns

38 Women Of The Woolly Worm 41 Halloween Recipes

12 Parenting Page 14 Food & Entertainment 16 It’s A Woman’s Job 17 Fashion and Fads 20 All About Crafts 23 All About Authors 24 Cover Feature: Sue Freeman 27 Bloom Where You’re

Planted

40 Heartfelt 44 Mom’s World 45 High Country Courtesies 46 You Go, Girl 48 Cents & $ensibility 51 Your Home 52 Healthy Lady 53 October Calendar

OCTOBER 2009

Contributing writers Corrinne Loucks Assad, Genevieve Austin, June W. Bare, Maggie Bishop, Sherry Boone, Sharon Carlton, Bonnie Church, Jenny Church, Heather W. Jordan, Kelly Penick, Vicki Randolph, Teri Wiggans, Heather Young

PHOTOGRAPHER Mark Mitchell Copy editing Danica Goodman

35 All About Beauty

50 Young At Heart

4

Amber Allen

26 Minding Her Own Business

42 Pet Page ALL ABOUT MEN IN OUR LIVES 28 Andy Griffith, Always On A Mission 29 Young Men In Our Lives 32 Mr. Woolly Worm – Roy Krege

Contributing Designer

For advertising CALL 828-264-3612 Ask for Your Marketing Consultant Cover page photo by Mark Mitchell Contents page photo by Nancy Morrison Any reproduction of news articles, photographs, or advertising artwork is strictly prohibited without permission from management. ©Copyright 2009 A Mountain Times Publication

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Nancy’s note...

Sherrie’s note...

Ah, October! The very sound of its name conjures up childhood memories – smells of burning leaves, pine needles carpeting the ground under the huge Nancy Morrison pines around my house, crisp daytime air and nippy Publisher nights, drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the wonderful colors, firm new apples from the big box in the garage, the excitement of planning all the ghoulish treats and haunted house experiences for Halloween, and so much more. (And there was the irrefutable knowledge that winter was just around the corner in the High Country!)

Of course, now burning leaves is neither politically correct – nor legal, without a permit – and the huge pines around my house are a distant memory, taken down over 20 years ago to keep them from falling on the house. So, there is no wonderful carpet of pine needles on which to jump and play. My father is not here to find the best local apples and my mother is not around to provide the fun treats for Halloween. But the Parkway is just as pretty as ever each fall and you certainly can count on the crisp daytime air and nippy nights of October.

One of my best memories of October was of the stilts my father made for my brother and me to play with while he was outside doing the fall yard work. He took young trees – maple probably – cut them to just the right length, and nailed on blocks of wood about two feet from the ground. We became very proficient on these homemade stilts.

I also remember the Halloween carnivals the local schools used to hold. I still have some antique jewelry I bought at one. One of the Newland Elementary teachers, Edith Webb, made a wonderful fortuneteller and was good at figuring out who we were, even with our costumes hiding our faces! It was so nice how everybody got into the act. Our class did the haunted house one year and that was so much fun with peeled grapes for eyeballs, ketchup for blood, shrunken heads from dried apples, eerie lights, and awful sounds.

I do remember feeling a bit left out of the trick-or-treating most years as we lived a long way from town and my parents weren’t about to let us venture very far from home on Halloween. I more than made up for it when I had my own daughter and lived in Charlotte! There was a time I made a bloody extra head, pinned it in place in my collar, and went to the mall! The most fun was trick-or-treating at friends’ houses with an empty wineglass!

Whatever you do for October, from viewing the fall colors to inventing ghoulish delights, enjoy this wonderful season of transition.

Have a ghostly good time –

WELCOME www.aawmag.com

As we begin to transition into autumn in all its glory, so goes this publication as we expand our horizons from monthly themes toward a more general Sherrie Norris approach to include a wider variety of interests and Editor lifestyles.

It has been an exciting journey in our attempt to feature special groups of women each month – writers, musicians, volunteers, etc.

– but at the same time, it’s been somewhat restrictive. After each issue has hit the streets, I’ve thought of at least one (and often several) more deserving woman related to every theme whose story should have been told. Our team has decided we need more freedom to spotlight women in every walk of life each month, rather than wait for a special issue in which to squeeze them between our covers. We hope you like the changes we’re making beginning with this month’s magazine.

Transition usually comes easily in October with nature’s expected seasonal parade of colors. Many of us eagerly anticipate cool crisp mornings and clear afternoon skies of the brightest blue that serve as a backdrop to vivid displays of autumn foliage. Festivals, football games, tailgate parties and homecomings are all a part of festive falls in the High Country.

Along with all the fun, however, it’s also a vital time to focus on a couple of very important issues facing today’s woman. October has been set aside as a national observance for Breast Cancer Awareness as well as Domestic Abuse Prevention and Awareness. The majority of women, unfortunately, will be personally touched, or know someone who is, by both of these situations at some point in their lives.

The more we know and the more we can do to help prevent both will result in victories for all of us and for future generations.

October is also designated for AIDS Awareness, Clergy Appreciation, Stamp Collecting, Vegetarian Awareness and many other fun topics such as Cookie Month, Pretzel Month and Pumpkin Festival Month. I guess we can celebrate or pay tribute to something every month, though I’m not sure how one goes about getting it on an official calendar!

During this month and every month, we in this office celebrate women. We encourage each woman to do all she can for herself.

Schedule routine health exams and keep appointments. Follow up as suggested and perform monthly breast self-exams. Consume adequate nutrition and get plenty of rest and exercise, which, I know, is much easier said than done.

Let’s make this change together and promise ourselves we’ll be the best we can be from this day forward.

Ready for reformation –

We want to hear from you. E-mail us at comments@AAWmag.com.

OCTOBER 2009 5

Local girls in third through fifth grades are invited to participate in Girls on the Run of the High Country (GOTR), a successful self-esteem building program for pre-adolescents.

Girls on the Run International, which began in 1996 in Charlotte, is a non-profit prevention program that encourages pre-adolescent girls to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles through physical activity. There are Girls on the Run programs in more than 150 cities in the United States and Canada.

The local group is open to 12 students, who will be coached by four adult volunteers. The group will meet on

Tuesdays from 4:30 - 5:45 and Thursdays from 4:00 - 5:15 p.m. at the Appalachian Regional Health Care System’s Wellness Center. The 2009 fall session is going on from September 22 – December 17. The girls and their running buddies will participate in a 5K run/walk/skip/hop/crawl on December 12.

The program’s curriculum and activities will address girls’ physical, emotional, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing.

The program culminates in a 5K run. Local organizers say they believe the program is important in order for girls to resist peer pressure as they enter middle school and high school.

Girls on the Run of the High Country is made possible

by Appalachian State University’s Institute for Health and Human Services, the Be Active - Appalachian Partnership, Appalachian District Health Department, Zap Fitness, the Appalachian Regional Healthcare System’s Wellness Center, Dianne DaVant and Associates, Chip and Amanda Williamson, Rob and Jackie Dyer of the Best Cellar/Inn at Ragged Gardens, High Country Energy Solutions and the Walter J. Hoyt Family.

To register or for more information, contact Mary Sheryl Horine at Appalachian’s Institute for Health and Human Services at 828-252-7557 or horinems@appstate. edu. Learn more about Girls on the Run International at www.girlsontherun.org.

Support Needed For GOTR The effort to bring Girls on the Run International to Watauga County needs financial support from area businesses and individuals.

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is a successful self-esteem building program for pre-adolescent girls.

“We are so excited about bringing this well-led, well-respected program to the High Country. I think it will make a world of difference to girls in the Watauga County area,” said Mary Sheryl Horine, associate director for community outreach in Appalachian State University’s Institute for Health and Human Services (IHHS).

Girls on the Run was created in 1996 by Charlotte resident Molly Barker, a four-time Hawaii Ironman tri-athlete and former high school teacher and track coach. Today, there are Girls on the Run programs in more than 150 cities in the United States and Canada.

The first local Girls on the Run group began in September with a total of 12 girls and four volunteer coaches. The group is meeting twice weekly after school at the Appalachian Regional Healthcare System’s Wellness Center. Additional groups may be created in the spring. Cost per girl is $150.

Funding is sought to help with curriculum and supplies, scholarships, race entry fees, T-shirts and other needs. Founding partners are needed to help get Girls on the Run of the High Country started. Organizers have a five-year goal to expand the program into Ashe and Avery counties, which will increase fiscal and volunteer staffing needs.

Jodi Cash, director of the Wellness Center, said, “Girls at this age need reinforcement. I think Girls on the Run will be a great asset to our community.”

To become involved as a founding donor, contact Horine at 828-252-7557 or horinems@appstate.edu. Learn more about Girls on the Run International at www.girlsontherun.org.

6 OCTOBER 2009

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See What’s Ne

Co

me

w!

The Calendula is the official flower of October.

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OCTOBER 2009 7

Women in Education

BY SHERRIE NORRIS

Rebecca Griffith With teaching license in hand, she embarked upon what she thought would be the perfect world of diligent students, gingham curtains adorning the windows, and shiny red apples sitting on the desk.

“Someone forget to tell me that I had to look for head lice, console the pregnant teen, find coats for students who had none, and attend blood borne pathogens trainings while at the same time trying to get everyone to pass the end-of-course test on Keynesian economics and the causes of the American Revolution! Reality hit hard.”

Several years later, she pursued a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Appalachian State University and attained National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification, as well as a principal’s license. Having a background in educational administration allows her to be a more effective teacher leader, she explains, “and to have more empathy for the current administrators.”

Her time in the classroom has taken her on an incredible journey offering opportunities to meet people and explore places around the Becky Griffith with her new friends while visiting the Shimamatsu Elementary School in Chitose, world.

Hokkaido (Japan) in 2006.

“Over the course of my career, I have had the pleasure of working with notable dignitaries Currently in her 19th year of teaching social studies, Rebecca Griffith such as Governor Jim Hunt; senators Elizabeth finds herself returning each day to the hallowed halls of Avery High Dole, Jesse Helms, and John Edwards; Secretary of State Elaine from which she graduated in 1979, and to the same classroom in Marshall; Representative Cass Ballenger; Chief Justice John Roberts; which she once sat under the tutelage of Monsieur Taylor while White House Communications Director George Stephanopoulos, and studying French. several distinguished authors such as Dr. Gary Nash and Dr. Joyce Upon discovering that “Ms. G,” as her students call her, was once Appleby. I had the honor of meeting former Soviet leader Mikhail a student and a cheerleader there, too, her students are amazed, Gorbachev who told me through his Russian translator that I had she says. “They think they’re being taught by some sort of reptilian ‘great initiative.’” dinosaur!”

Presenting at educational conferences and participating in study As one of the teachers in the Viking Academy, a middle to high tours literally has taken her from Murphy to Manteo, New York to school transition program, Becky has been working with the freshmen Florida, Virginia to California – the list goes on. students in an effort to help them begin defining goals and thinking “I once sat in a rocking chair on the front porch of Mount Vernon about their futures. When asked by a student if she always wanted to enjoying mince pie and cheese, a favorite of President Washington’s. be a teacher, her reply was simple. “Yes, I have always wanted to be a Afterwards I climbed into the cupola and watched the sun set over the teacher.”

Potomac just as George and Martha must have done. I have walked However, she admits, her educational background does not the sacred grounds of Montpelier and enjoyed the ice-cooled air rising necessarily fit the typical pattern that students are encouraged to from beneath the Madisons’ gazebo while listening to stories told of follow. slave controversies and efforts to build a democracy.”

“After marrying at an early age, I attained my associate degree The lessons of culture and society are powerful forces, she adds. from Mayland Community College. I settled in for the next nine years “I traveled to Japan and Russia visiting schools and meeting teachers as a stay-at-home mother to three wonderful sons.” and students who face the same challenges and celebrate the same Later, she attended Lees-McRae College, graduating summa cum successes as we do here in the United States.” laude with a bachelor’s degree in secondary social studies education. In Japan and Russia, she saw students hungry for knowledge and 8 OCTOBER 2009

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teachers anxious to bestow their wisdom, which is no different than in American schools.

“Russian students questioned me about American children riding school buses – a concept foreign to them. Elementary Japanese students giggled and wanted me to teach them how to pronounce the American names printed on their clothes such as Nike and Abercrombie. While swimming in the volcanic lake waters on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, I found myself understanding more clearly that education is experiential. In the Kremlin of Moscow I stopped, stooped down, and touched the imprints left in the stones from the Soviet tanks that had once paraded past Stalin, Khrushchev, and Brezhnev. For a history teacher having grown up during the Cold War, no experience could have touched me any more deeply. These opportunities have enriched my schemata, allowing me to become a more powerful classroom teacher for my students.”

In February, Becky was chosen as president-elect of the North Carolina Council for the Social Studies.

“I consider this to be one of my crowning achievements allowing me to check off one more item from my life’s ‘Bucket List.’”

Going from the days of childhood when she played school with her dolls to the reality of the 21st century classroom has been an astonishing voyage. Last week a freshman said, “Ms. G., you taught my mama!” When that happens, she says, a teacher understands that the end of a career is near.

“My passion for education and lifelong learning will never end. I told my husband that after I pass into the next realm, he should donate my skeleton to a medical school so that Ole Mama Grif could just keep

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Becky Griffith returns daily to where it all started long before her teaching career began. on hanging around teaching!”

As for those students in her Viking Academy class, she encourages them to find their cause and give it their voice.

“Always live above the level of mediocrity. Be passionate.

Remember the lesson my mother taught me – ‘If you do what you love, you will never have to go to work a day in your life.’”

Becky is married to Bryan Griffith, pastor of Minneapolis Baptist Church. They have three sons: Zebulon, Daniel and his wife Darla, and Stephen.

OCTOBER 2009 9

Reinvented

By The Raspberry Bushes

BY JUNE W. BARE One of today’s buzz words is “survivor.” Mari-Liis Virkus Smyth is a true survivor, beginning from her early days following World War II when her homeland, Estonia, was a pawn between Germany and the former USSR. But that is a different story. Mari Liis is a current survivor of a more personal nature – breast cancer.

A questionable mammogram was Mari Liis’ first indication that something was amiss. On September 19, 2000 her radiologist said, “You have cancer.”

“I was dumbstruck,” she said. Prior to that day she had said, “I don’t want to go out in pieces.” Her diagnosis changed everything.

“I couldn’t get to surgery fast enough. Then, I was absolutely afraid going into the six-hour procedure for a modified mastectomy. I read everything I could get my hands on. CURE magazine was the most informative,” she says. “One time during recovery at home, a doorto-door roof salesman rang the bell. I told him that I didn’t need a new roof . . . I needed to find courage to live. I made peace with dying.

Some people tried to encourage me by telling me that I’d be my old self again soon. I didn’t want to be my old self. I needed to reinvent myself!”

Her surgery on October 4, 2000, consisted of a mastectomy of the left breast with an implant and a breast reduction on the right.

“My insurance coverage ended six weeks after surgery, so I had to decide whether I wanted four chemotherapy treatments for $25,000 that would improve my chances by only 10 percent. If I died, I did not want to leave my husband Roy penniless.”

Sometimes complications occur. Mari Liis was not immune. “The left breast with the implant swelled and turned a reddish-purple color.

Another round of antibiotics did not help.” She laughs now at the nottoo-funny entrance at the plastic surgery center. “My blouse ballooned with warm liquid, which then ran down my legs. I was ushered quickly from the lobby while they mopped the floor.”

Cancer happens when cells grow out of control in one part of the body. Although these originally are normal cells, they begin to divide and grow in an abnormal fashion, crowding out normal cells. Breast cancer, a malignant tumor that starts from cells of the breast, is found primarily in women. The cancer may start out as a small lump, but it grows out of control. It’s important to note that most lumps are not cancerous; however, as soon as a lump is found, it is vital to see a physician to determine a diagnosis and treatment.

The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 40,170 deaths from 10 OCTOBER 2009

Mari-Liis Smyth in front of the raspberry bushes that helped Mari-Liis reinvent herself. the disease in the US for 2009. Statistics show that along with skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in our country and the second leading cause of death in women, after lung cancer. A woman has a one in eight chance of having breast cancer in her lifetime, and a one in 35 chance of dying from the disease.

Mari Liis’ realism and sense of humor kept her in good stead. She called the American Cancer Society in Atlanta to apply for a prosthetic device. Of course, a man answered the phone. “I felt awkward talking to him. He asked, ‘What size?’” She had no idea after the removal of one breast and modification of the other.

In addition to her surgery, Mari Liis took anti-estrogen Tamoxifen for five years. She is currently cancer-free and has diagnostic mammograms and sees her oncologist on a yearly basis. Roy Smyth, her husband, was her primary support system through it all, for which she is very grateful. She also joined a support group at Buddy Kemp Caring House in Charlotte. (Francis “Buddy” Kemp was president of NCNB Corporation, predecessor to Bank of America, when he died of brain cancer at age 50. To recognize Buddy’s commitment to his profession, to NCNB, to his community and to his family, NationsBank committed $250,000 to Presbyterian Healthcare to build and operate a Cancer Caring House to serve as an education and resource center for cancer patients and their families.)

When a woman learns that she has escaped the worst effect of a cancer diagnosis, long-term thinking may change. In Mari Liis’ case, she realized that, first of all, she needed to make peace with the possibility of dying. She decided to do some things she always wanted www.aawmag.com

to do, and took a trip with her husband to the Adirondacks.

Mari Liis believes that her main risk factors (see below) included obesity and that she had never had children. She has made definite changes in her eating by trying to eat whole grains, fish, and less red meat. She exercises moderately and tries to maintain a healthy weight.

Another part of the reinvention of Mari Liis Smyth is her raspberry patch. She says it is her salvation. “The berries need picking, so I get up. The plump, red berries, the warm sunshine, the sight of cows on the Beech Mountain ridge – who could ask for better working conditions?” Her personal advice to women is “Don’t get estrogen therapy; do get mammogram screenings.”

For information regarding support groups in the area, she recommends contacting Peggy Setzer at Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, (828) 262-9170.

Breast Cancer Risk Factors: Breast cancer risks may include certain factors that cannot be changed, such as: • Gender (women 100 times more susceptible than men) • Age (2/3 of women with invasive breast cancer discovered at age 55 or older) • Genetic risk factors • Family history • Personal history of previous breast cancer • Race (Caucasian slightly higher risk than African-American) • Dense breast tissue • Menstruation before age 12 • Previous breast radiation • Treatment with DES or a mother who was treated with DES (drug thought to lower risk for miscarriage) Other risk factors associated with lifestyle choices: • Women who have not had children, or who had their first child after age 30 • Recent use of birth control pills • Postmenopausal hormone therapy • Not breast-feeding • Alcohol (2 to 5 drinks daily) • Obesity (particularly in waist area) • Lack of exercise www.aawmag.com

OCTOBER 2009 11

Parenting Page| COMPLIMENTS OF WATAUGA COUNTY CHILDREN’S COUNCIL

Halloween Safety Tips Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids, and to help ensure they have a safe holiday, here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

ALL DRESSED UP: • Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider nontoxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes.

• When shopping for costumes, wigs, and accessories, look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.

• If a sword, cane, or stick is a part of your child’s costume, make sure it is not sharp or too long. A child may be easily hurt by these accessories if he stumbles or trips.

• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

• Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.

CARVING A NICHE: • Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers. Then parents can do the cutting.

• Votive candles are safest for candlelit pumpkins.

• Candlelit pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects, and should never be left unattended.

HOME SAFE HOME: • To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.

• Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burnedout bulbs.

• Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.

• Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.

12 OCTOBER 2009

ON THE TRICK-ORTREAT TRAIL: • A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.

• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.

• Go only to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.

• Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind trick-or-treaters to: • Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.

• Carry a cell phone for quick communication.

• Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.

• If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.

• Never cut across yards or use alleys.

• Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.

• Don’t assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn’t mean others will!

• Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

HEALTHY HALLOWEEN: • A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.

• Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books or pens and pencils.

• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats.

Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.

• Try to ration treats for the days following Halloween. ©9/08 American Academy of Pediatrics

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Boone Service League Has A Heart For The High Country Boone Service League is a women’s service organization focusing on improving the lives of those in the High Country community. A spokesperson shares, “We are always seeking new members and this is a great time to join in the fun as we have an exciting year planned.

Volunteering with a friend or family member encourages growth and bonding while expanding BSL resources – bring a friend and imagine what a few resourceful women can do!”

New members are encouraged to join BSL at one of the group’s upcoming events and help its members live up to their motto, “A Heart for the High Country!”

Holiday Market An excellent place to do your holiday shopping. Be on the lookout for this event the week before Thanksgiving. Local vendors will be present selling their items and services with all money raised going to help organizations and people in our community. If you would like to raise extra money for the holidays, this is a great opportunity! To be a vendor at the Market, please contact Cindy Rigsbee at cinrigsbee@ hotmail.com.

Christmas Pictures Remember this holiday season and share it with your family and friends by making an appointment for Christmas portraits. Boone Service League joins Emily Angle Photography this year to help local charitable organizations during the holiday season. The dates are November 14th – 16th. Please contact Gayle Sears for more information at wgsears1@yahoo.com.

Holiday Gift Wrap The Boone Service League will be wrapping gifts for holiday shoppers at the Boone Mall again this year in December. Funds raised through this event are used to help local charitable organizations during the holiday season. Members will be located at a table in front of Bath & Body Works and South’s at Boone Mall. For more information, contact Danielle Wade at daniellewade@gmail.com.

All funds raised by the Boone Service League remain in the High Country. For more information, please visit the organization’s Web site at www.booneserviceleague.org.

ARTHRITIS, TENDONITIS, LIGAMENT INJURIES, FRACTURES THAT DON’T HEAL, PERSISTENT PAIN AFTER SURGERY?????

Alan M. Lazar, M.D., F.A.C.S. Is pleased to announce an alternative approach to healing tendons, ligament injuries and arthritic joints.

Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP is a new treatment option for various orthopaedic injuries and conditions which have traditionally required surgery or other extensive treatments. Using the patient’s own blood, specially prepared platelets are concentrated and then re-injected into the affected area. The platelets in them release substances known as growth factors that lead to improved natural tissue healing. PRP is effective for most soft tissue injuries including:

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• Tendonitis (tennis and golfer’s elbow) • Ligament & Meniscal Injuries • Osteoarthritis of the hip, knee, & shoulder • Rotator cuff tear of the shoulder Orthopaedic Surgery • Sports Medicine Arthroscopic and Reconstructive Surgery Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections and Stem Cells

Alan M. Lazar, M.D., F.A.C.S. Board Certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Lazar will be available for in office treatment of arthitic joints, and ligament and tendon injuries such as tennis and golfer’s elbow utilizing Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Stem Cell Injection Therapy located in the office of:

Practicing in Plantation for over 25 years...

Caring and friendly staff.

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WESTSIDE MEDICAL ARTS • (954) 476-9494 350 NW 84th Ave., Suite 206 • Plantation, FL 33324 Se Habla Español

www.dralanlazar.com OCTOBER 2009 13

Food & Entertainment

Mixing Food, Fun And The Cheerful Table

The kitchen at Little Pond Farm was inspired by childhood memories of Gaye Luaces, (innkeeper with her husband Frank), who often woke to the aromas of muffins baking, sauce simmering in immense pots, and the sight of fresh pasta, turned out by her grandmother’s hand, drying over chair backs. Also, she has clear recollections of planting seeds with her grandfather for a kitchen garden and of picking fruit and vegetables and cutting flowers each day for the family table.

“The life that we shared centered around the stovetop, and those rich culinary traditions became inspiration for all that we do here at Little Pond Farm,” Gaye states.

Her good friend Mary Fenster was also a stimulating factor in the strong interest she developed in the culinary arts. Though not professionally trained as a chef, Gaye’s travels have been centered around good food, good dining and culinary schools, including those in Italy, Nova Scotia, New York, Florida and Georgia.

14 OCTOBER 2009

Easily defined as “an enchanting inn, a sophisticated country house detailed to perfection with exceptional style and quiet simplicity,” the popular Little Pond Farm that now occupies Gaye’s every waking moment is a unique bed and breakfast destination nestled amidst a splendid pine grove and a pastoral mountain meadow. The innkeepers have put charm back into everyday life at this classic 1900 farmhouse in the woods, filling it with a sense of hospitality and warmth.

“We offer a tranquil place for reflection, where one can enjoy the bounty of open space and delight in crisp mountain air,” she says. “Here, nature paints with countless shades that reflect the changing seasons and the days are measured by the lulling chant of the cicadas and the rhythms of life in these ancient Blue Ridge Mountains,” Gaye adds.

In an attempt to capture these magical sensory memories, the inn’s Farm Kitchen program reflects her desire to nurture and nourish friends and family gathered around

the cheerful table.

Each guest at the unique inn comes away enthralled and completely sated by the bountiful breakfasts, which make good use of as much fresh, locally-grown food as possible.

Imported Swiss coffees offer a special touch to the delectable meals – not to mention a carefully chosen wine and food selection for an afternoon delight.

Gaye takes well-deserved pride in all of her guest lists, but none more so than that of accomplished chefs, cookbook authors and wine experts who host frequent classes in her kitchen. The current series of classes referred to as Splendid Food in a Magical Setting, began in midSeptember and run through late October, featuring French Market Provence specialties. With Chef Marietta DeBriere, class participants come away eager and able to recreate such divine gourmet dishes as Coq Au Vin, Boeuf Bourguignon and Poulet Saute Nicoise, to name just a few.

Inn at Little Pond Farm is located at 208 Valle Cay Drive in Valle Crucis. Call (828) 297-1011 or visit www.pondfarm@ncinn. com for more information and upcoming events.

Three Graces Entertainment

$ 5.00 OFF

Any Belly Dance Class

by Saphira Call 336.830-3479

www.ThreeGracesEntertainment.com Studio K 289 Daniel Boone Drive Boone, NC 28607 www.aawmag.com

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Melt the butter in a 12-inch ovenproof sauté pan, add the shallots and sugar, and toss. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, until shallots start to brown. Add the vinegar, salt, and pepper and toss well.

Place the sauté pan in the oven and roast for 25 minutes until shallots are tender. Season to taste, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

od! . . . . . . . . .

3/4 stick unsalted butter 2 lbs. fresh shallots, peeled, with roots intact 3 Tbsp. sugar 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley 3 Tbsp. red wine vinegar ½ tsp. salt Pepper

pumpkin bread

go

Caramelized Shallots

...

ed

Here are a couple of Gaye’s favorite recipes:

. . . . . . . . . wic

k

Chocolate Orange Mousse 6 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped ¼ cup Grand Marnier 1 tsp. grated orange zest 8 eggs, at room temperature, separated ½ cup cold heavy cream 2 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped ¼ cup water 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1 ½ sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature ½ cup plus 2 Tbsp. sugar Pinch of salt Combine the two chocolates, Grand Marnier, ¼ cup water, and vanilla in a heatproof bowl. Set in a pan of simmering water until the chocolate melts. Cool completely to room temperature. Whisk in the orange zest and butter until combined.

Place egg yolks and ½ cup of sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat on high speed for 4 minutes, or until very thick. With the mixer on low speed, add the chocolate mixture. Transfer mixture to a large bowl.

Place 1 cup of egg whites, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat on high speed until firm, but not dry. Whisk ½ of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture, then fold the rest in with a rubber spatula.

Without cleaning the bowl or whisk, whip the heavy cream and the remaining tablespoon of sugar until firm. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture. Pour the mousse into individual dishes or an 8-cup serving bowl. Chill and decorate with whipped cream and oranges. www.aawmag.com

345 Hardin Street in Boone

828.268.9900

• www.stickboybread.com

Café Portofino an inter national garlic house

Day l l A

in Din

g

g inin es D tar pric 5 S t the l a hou casu e! t i w in a spher o atm

970 Rivers Street • Boone, NC 828-264-7772 www.cafeportofino.net OCTOBER 2009 15

It’s A Woman’s Job

BY CORRINE LOUCKS ASSAD

WYN’s Jennifer Grubb

Will Never Give Up

“It is our challenge to not be defeated,” explains Western Youth Network’s (WYN) Executive Director, Jennifer Grubb. Timely words in today’s world that could apply to many of us for various reasons.

For WYN, it’s a philosophy that’s carried it through a very tough year financially, yet reaped rewards at the same time. Statewide, there have been over $26 million in funding cuts to juvenile programs. Although these cuts have certainly had a local impact, WYN is showing up strong and continuing to provide the high level of youth services and mentoring that our community has come to count on.

“Jenn is very hard working and puts all of her energy and time into ensuring that WYN will continue to provide the much needed services to High Country youth,” says Angela McMann, WYN’s Mentoring Program Director. Jennifer Grubb has worked for WYN for seven years, the first four as Mentoring Director and the latest three as Executive Director. Jennifer is responsible for supervising all programs, overseeing day-to-day operations and managing the budget – including acquiring money through fundraisers, donations and grants.

WYN first received grant funding in 1985 from the NC Dept. of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s (DJJDP) Governor’s One-On-One initiative. From 1990 - 1993, WYN secured over $300,000 from the Town of Boone, Watauga County and other individual and business donations to raise funds to grow its space and its operation. The organization was then able to focus intensely on county youth. In 1994, it received its first sizable grant from the High Country United Way and the DJJDP Support Our Students (SOS) initiative. In 2002, WYN expanded services to other counties and now serves Watauga, Avery, Ashe, Mitchell, Alleghany and Wilkes counties. Unfortunately, as of last July, WYN was hit by the statewide cuts and lost two of the grants that accounted for much of its budget all of these years.

“Jennifer deserves recognition for all the hard work she is putting in to ensure that High Country youth continue to have access to the middle schools’ after school, prevention, mentoring, and adventurebased programs,” Angela states. “She has worked so hard to allow WYN to be in a financial place where we can take this kind of hit and not lose staff.”

Jennifer describes some of the areas in which her staff has made sacrifices. “We’ve cut out some of the extras like cleaning help, paper products, air conditioning, etc.” But she isn’t taking the credit. “The staff here is a group of professionals,” she explains. “Many of us have been working together for five years or more. We know each other’s ups and downs and our organizational and personal challenges have served only to bring us closer.”

So far, Jennifer has been able to keep all three programs together following massive budget deficits. In addition to a five-week summer school program, WYN’s three main programs include Prevention, After School, and Mentoring. Its Prevention program is utilizing evidence–based education techniques proven to deter kids from risky behaviors such as school drop out, substance abuse, depression or suicidal behaviors. In the After School program, WYN provides pickup service from school, one-on-one tutoring and enrichment time such as service projects, music or art therapy. The Mentoring program 16 OCTOBER 2009

allows kids, ages 6 - 17, to spend time with an older role model. This person takes the child along on activities such as hiking, bowling, etc., and becomes a friend and a long-term advocate for the child.

Thanks to the superb matching skills of Angela, many lives have been positively changed through the Mentoring program.

As modest as her boss, Angela attributes much of the teams’ success to Jennifer’s management skills, “Jenn is a young executive director with some very seasoned skills and I believe she is leading the way with her management style – including elements of therapeutic and team building, along with very appropriate guidance.” Jennifer admits to learning her management skills on the job and describes her group as “one of equals.” In business, as in life, she adheres to the philosophy of creating balance and taking time for one’s self and has learned to delegate to her very competent staff members. “Jenn makes WYN the most wonderful place to work and she inspires all of her employees to do their very best,” Angela touted. And their best is paying off in the enriched lives of our area youth and families.

If you are interested in aiding WYN in its efforts to continue supporting area youth without cuts, the following items are greatly needed: gas cards for transporting children after school, nonperishable snacks for after school, office supplies including paper.

(They are currently using both sides and recycling!) They could also use help with services that the staff is now handling, such as mowing, landscaping and cleaning. Additional tutors are needed during ASU’s fall and Christmas breaks and opportunities abound for volunteering at one of their many fundraisers such as the Pumpkin Festival, held this year on October 24. Even the smallest monetary donations are extremely helpful in this difficult financial year.

Jennifer extends her thanks to area supporters such as United Way, Watauga County, the Town of Boone, Boone United Methodist Church and the many other organizations and individuals that are keeping the programs funded. These funds help Jennifer stay fast to her goals of maintaining services to as many kids as need them and refusing to contribute to the area’s unemployment rate. Jenn exemplifies her philosophies of “Never quit” and “Don’t give up,” resulting in a strong and faithful team of workers with a heart for building relationships with area youth – relationships that make a difference.

www.aawmag.com

Fashion and Fads With Jenny Church

Falling Into Seasonal Trends

Good news for those of you who love a little frill – lace and bows are back and here to stay, at least for this fall. The best way to achieve this look is with a sweater that has a lacy touch, or with a top to which a bow can be added. Scarves are also a good way to play up this look. Tie a small scarf around your neck to keep out the cold air, and look devilishly good while trying to keep warm. This look is fresh for the season, and, while giving off a modern vibe, the lace and bow are both classic – together, they spell edgy with sophistication.

One of the best things about fall is the jacket – a few of which meet the basic need for every wardrobe. Oversized collars are in right now, too, and by oversized, I mean exaggerated.

They need to cover much more area than a regular polo or jacket collar. This look is more dressy than casual, but if worn correctly, can most certainly be pulled off as everyday wear. For those of us on the petite side, big-shoulder jackets are also in the rise – not so much the shoulder pad look, but a jacket designed with boxier shoulders will most certainly make a statement this season.

As I am sure most of you ladies have noticed, one-shoulder dresses and tops are also “in.” It’s a trend that might be around for a while, so it’s a pretty sound investment for those of you planning to add to your fall wardrobe.

For the accessory queens out there, the seasonal bag trends are a little different from the past years. The oversized look is giving way to the skins. Skin-textured bags are quite expensive and, while a faux skin can be acceptable, it often looks cheap. While we all know there’s nothing wrong with cheap and every woman loves a good deal, no one ever wants to look cheap. A good way to mix it up for this season – and get some extra use out of it for the future – is to buy a bag with some skinned texture as well as some lace or extra frills. A big bow is also a good way to balance out the skinned look.

that can be worn too frequently.

• Pleated tops are another look to watch for. Just be careful, and make sure they’re for you! Pleats tend to add a few pounds when worn in a top.

• Bright colored faux fur is another promising trend this season, although destined to be quite popular, most likely short-lived, as well.

• For the younger ladies, strapless dresses with ruffles are cutting edge for the remainder of 2009. This is a hot look! And you trendfiends should definitely consider buying or borrowing one from your gal pals.

Other fall trends on the rise: • Leather pants! Oh yes, they are back! Be careful with this one ladies. No matter how in style they are, they’re definitely something

www.aawmag.com

OCTOBER 2009 17

Domestic Abuse – Help Break The Cycle

BY JUNE W. BARE “I whupped you once, and I’ll whup you again, as the dew flies over the green vallee . . .”

So goes a provocative line sung by folk singer Jeannie Ritchie. The notion is that the woman deserved the beating because she refused to cook for her new husband. In other words, the abuse must have been deserved. Too often a victim of domestic abuse believes that abuse is deserved. She believes she isn’t good enough for her man, and she lives in fear of displeasing him.

As friends and family look on such a situation, they understand that intimate partner violence is never deserved, and begs the question, “Why doesn’t she just leave?” The answer to that question is complex and not straightforward, but too often a head-in-the-sand answer is given, “It’s just the way it is.” The real answers may be guilt regarding the breakup of the family (especially if there are children), lack of financial security, culpability in illegal activities, religion … and the list goes on. As in conquering addictions, the survivor may actually leave

six or seven times before it finally becomes permanent.

It is important to note that, although women are the most frequent objects of intimate partner violence, domestic abuse occurs in every cross section of intimate relationships. A good definition for domestic abuse comes from Mid-Valley Women’s Crisis Service in Oregon: “Domestic abuse, also known as spousal abuse, occurs when one person in an intimate relationship or marriage tries to dominate and control the other person . . . He or she uses fear, guilt, shame, and intimidation to wear you down and gain complete power over you.”

It is a general impression that domestic abuse is a matter of the abuser losing self-control. However, the opposite is the real truth. An abuser makes a deliberate choice to take control of the partnership and gain total domination in the relationship. Intimidation is the means to this control instead of anger and rage at the victim. The abuser does not batter other individuals, will stop and appear cool and collected when the phone rings or the police arrive, and often hits to bruise in places that do not show.

It is important to understand that domestic abuse is not always violent, but emotional abuse can be every bit as damaging as physical violence. The driving force in abuse, whether it is physical, sexual, or emotional, is to feel in charge of the relationship. The way in which the abuser exercises this control is found in the “Power and Control” wheel: • • • • • • • •

OASIS staff members, left to right: Kerry Gersonde, Jennifer Herman, Jenny Fairchild, Lisa Rees, Rebecca Gummere.

18 OCTOBER 2009

Intimidation Emotional abuse Isolation Minimize, deny, blame Use children as pawns Use male privilege Use economic abuse Coercion and threats

The abuser will follow a common cycle of violence: tension builds, verbal abuse increases; violent outbursts; remorse/blame; promises/ bargaining; false belief that all is well. A relatively normal relationship might extend for months at a time, lulling the victim into believing that the partner has changed – a “honeymoon.” These are mind games and part of a sick relationship.

OASIS (Opposing Abuse with Service, Information, and Shelter) is a local agency that has been addressing intimate partner violence in Boone for the last 31 years. According to Rebecca Gummere, associate director, as the cycle is repeated, the violence usually www.aawmag.com

increases in frequency and severity. The more times the cycle is completed, the less time it takes to complete. She states that domestic abuse has reached epidemic proportions, and that she and her staff are working to “talk ourselves out of a job.” She says the focus of their intervention in domestic abuse is an “empowerment model” – that is, to empower the survivors to make decisions about their lives.

Information is provided regarding both legal and medical advocacy that will aid in the decision-making process. Since abuse is a control issue, making decisions is a barrier that needs to be crossed in order for the survivor to be in control of his/her own life.

A major part of OASIS is education. Its staff takes the message to public schools and the college campus, as well as to civic organizations and the faith community. It is the hope that by educating our youth, the next generation will learn and be able to model healthy intimate family relationships.

Other important functions of OASIS include: the 24/7/365 rape prevention education, including the debunking of media images, gender stereotyping, and the idea of double standard; crisis hotline; providing accommodation for women and children in a secure, unidentified location; arranging for a male survivor to find a safe home; comprehensive counseling; and working with other agencies that provide services locally, including the Watauga County Sheriff’s Department.

“I would hope that concerned readers and community members would join us in the work of breaking the cycle of violence,” says Rebecca. “Once they come to that commitment, they will find ways to help.”

Become a crisis-line volunteer, offer financial help and/or be willing to share the information with others.

Funding for OASIS comes from three sources: 50 - 60 percent from state, federal, and local grants; 30-35 percent from local giving and fundraising; and 9 percent from private funding. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, during which OASIS will once again launch the annual purple ribbon campaign – as a reminder.

Visit http://www.oasisinc.org or call the OASIS office to see how you can help: (828) 264-1532.

Abuse is when one person scares, hurts or continually puts down the other person.

Does your partner: • Embarrass or make fun of you in front of your friends or family?

• Put down your accomplishments or goals?

• Make you feel like you are unable to make decisions?

• Use intimidation or threats to gain compliance?

• Tell you that you are nothing without them?

• Treat you roughly… grab, push, pinch, shove or hit you?

• Call you often or show up to make sure you are where you said you would be?

• Use drugs or alcohol as an excuse for saying hurtful things or abusing you?

• Blame you for how they feel or act?

• Pressure you sexually for things you aren’t ready?

• Make you feel like there is no way out of the relationship?

• Prevent you from doing things you want, like spending time with friends or family?

• Try to keep you from leaving after a fight or abandon you after a fight to teach you a lesson?

Do you: • Sometimes feel scared of how your partner will act?

• Constantly make excuses to other people for your partner’s behavior?

• Believe that you can help your partner change if only you changed something about yourself?

• Try not to do anything that would cause conflict or make your partner angry?

• Feel like no matter what you do, your partner is never happy with you?

• Always do what your partner wants you to do instead of what you want?

• Stay with your partner because you are afraid of what your partner would do if you broke up?

If any of these are happening in your relationship, talk to someone. Without some help, the abuse will continue. (*Adapted from OASIS literature)

www.aawmag.com

OCTOBER 2009 19

All About Crafts| BY NANCY MORRISON

This adorably spooky group of ghosts is easy to make to light up your home and entertain your trick or treaters!

Materials needed: White cloth napkins in assorted sizes Fabric stiffener (white glue diluted with water can be used) Black permanent marker Fake spider webs Toy spiders and rats Toy jack o’ lanterns or small pumpkins Several small Styrofoam balls Assorted bottles or cans A string of small decorative lights, orange if you can find them Directions: Soak the napkins in the fabric stiffener. If you prefer, you can dilute white school glue (Elmer’s) with water until it is slightly runny. Stir and soak your napkins in the mixture.

Build forms for the ghosts by taping a small Styrofoam ball to the top of a can that is the right height so the wet napkin 20 OCTOBER 2009

can be draped over it without touching the surface upon which the can rests. (You can make the balls by crushing up white paper and then taping into a ball shape with masking tape.)

Arrange the folds gracefully and let dry, preferably overnight.

When the napkins are dry, use the black permanent marker to draw eyes – and perhaps a mouth (your choice!) on your ghostly characters. Different sized ghosts made with assorted sizes of napkins make for a more interesting centerpiece. Little toy hats also can be glued to your ghosts.

Arrange a bed of fake spider webs and pull wisps up for a spooky look. Space the lights so they are resting in the spider web and also inside each ghost. Set toy jack o’ lanterns, small pumpkins, toy spiders and rats all around the ghosts. This arrangement works well on a mantle or as a table centerpiece.

Happy Haunting! www.aawmag.com

Walker & DiVenere AT T O R N E Y S

AT

L AW

With offices in Boone, North Carolina, Attorneys Jeffrey J. Walker and Tamara C. DiVenere practice in the areas of real estate, construction, contracts, personal injury/wrongful death and insurance disputes, as well as all family law matters including prenuptial agreements, divorce, child custody, wills and trusts.

Mr. Walker is also licensed to practice in Tennessee and has an office in Mountain City. He has been licensed to practice in Florida since 1980 and is Board Certified in Civil Law there. Ms. DiVenere is a graduate of Duke University (cum laude) and University of North Carolina School of Law (high honors).

828-268-9640

www.lawyernorthcarolina.com Fax: 828-262-3699 · Toll free: 800-451-4299 jwalker@jjwpa.com 783 W. King Street tdivenere@jjwpa.com Boone, NC 28607

Jason Lankford, Activity Assistant “Dedicated since 2009”

828.264.8977 S P E C I A LT Y C L O T H I E R S

South’s is giving away a FREE pair of Tummy Tuck Jeans each week!

To enter the drawing, come in and try on a pair of Tummy Tuck Jeans.

Rehabilitation Services including: · Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapies · Long-Term Nursing Care · Respite & Hospice Care

828.264.6720

www.glenbridge.org 211 Milton Brown Heirs Road · Boone, NC 28607 www.aawmag.com

Tummy Tuck Jeans

“Not Your Daughter’s Jeans” Classic Jeans

*offer good through October

Boone Mall • 1180 Blowing Rock Rd., Boone, NC 28607

www.southsclothiers.com Hours: Mon. - Sat. 10am - 9pm • Sunday 1 - 5pm OCTOBER 2009 21

Belly Dancing For The Health Of It

It’s 6:30 at Studio K on Monday night. The dance room is filled with women adorned in shiny coin belts discussing costumes and the upcoming belly dance gala at which they’ll be performing. Instructor Teresa Dickerson, “Saphira,” calls everyone together as she begins the warm-up music. That’s all it takes for these focused and determined women to begin moving their hips and torsos in figure eights, circles, slides, serpentine-like undulations and more. Saphira’s students at Studio K in Boone vary greatly in profession, age and size. Yet, belly dancing is their common bond.

Just Try It One of Saphira’s most enthusiastic students, Anne, who is the owner of the Lazy Bear Lodge in Valle Crucis, was surprised when first asked about belly dancing. Her initial response was, “Oh no, not me!” But after Saphira gently persuaded her to just try it, she did – and was hooked.

Sara, a skin specialist who owns The Skin Studio, was intrigued from the start. She has recruited several friends and even has enrolled her teenaged daughter in the classes.

Another student, Cheryl, a massage therapist who devotes much of her time volunteering for Hospice, dances because she believes it’s part of One of Saphira’s local dance troupes – Daughters of the Hidden Vale – include Sarah, Charlotte, Kristie, Heather, Cheryl, Anne. Not pictured: her physical and emotional growth.

Other students drive from Wilkesboro to be part of the Boone belly Nesha, Kenisha, Hannah. Photo by Janice Welsh. dance troupe at Studio K, knowing it’s time just for them.

An Ancient Art Kept Alive Students Heather and Kristie explain, “When you’re focusing on the The answer very well may be in its history. This ancient art goes back move, music and choreography, the outside world disappears. It’s an to around 5,000 B.C. in a time where women danced as part of childbirth escape from life’s daily responsibilities.” rituals, festivals, and celebrations. It was performed in villages, homes, and Other students have wanted to study belly dance for years, but had tents set up for delivering babies, not on stages, as we often see today. The to wait until the time was right. Charlotte was drawn to belly dance dance was a way for women to celebrate and support one another. That since she was a young girl, and is now thrilled that her time has arrived. is still the essence of the dance today. But where would we be without the Unfortunately, after only a couple of lessons, she injured her foot, but costume? she’s back now even though she’s still wearing her foot brace. Maureen, another student, studied belly dance in the 1970s and is excited to be back For The Health Of It in class again.

Yes, belly dance is about the health benefits and the social camaraderie.

So, how do these women achieve physical and emotional well being For those who choose to perform (and not all do), it’s also about the through this ancient dance form? costume, makeup, hair, and – yes, glitter spray! It’s a transformation from one’s everyday self to viola – the belly dancer! When asked about What Keeps Them Coming Back? choosing a dance name, Saphira also recommends that students choose In part, it’s the same reason why more and more physicians are one. Saphira explains that Teresa (her birth name) is the one who cooks, recommending belly dance to some of their patients. It’s an exercise does the dishes – but Saphira, she dances! They just happen to share the that has minimal impact on the knees and ankles, yet increases one’s same body. heart rate. Unlike most other dance forms, belly dance involves torso movements, including that of the rib and shoulder. Belly dancers hold Dancers Featured At Upcoming Gala their arms up for extended periods of time, so they build arm strength to Many of the Studio K Boone dancers are preparing to perform at The execute the graceful movements and veil work. Belly dance movements Walker Center at Wilkes Community College on October 24 for a gala help the body’s natural joint lubrication, improve posture, and much more. featuring approximately 80 belly dancers. Everyone is welcome to witness The hip movements are natural to the female form, and abdominal, pelvic their debut, and also to learn what belly dancing is really all about. and thigh muscles strengthen. But there are plenty of other reasons why For ticket information, or more about belly dancing classes, women are attracted to this dance. contact Saphira at (336) 830-3479 or Teresa3Graces@aol.com. You can also visit www.ThreeGracesEntertainment.com 22 OCTOBER 2009

www.aawmag.com

All About Authors An Interview with Award Winning B.J. Foster

BY MAGGIE BISHOP Tell us about your latest published book and your current writing project: Bayou Shadows is a romantic-suspense story about a gutsy, female reporter who grew up in the swamps. While working on an article, she becomes involved with a budding attorney whose eyes are on cleaning up Louisiana politics. Devastation follows when she discovers that he is entangled in Mafia drug trafficking.

The romance is doomed, but to secure a story that could catapult her career to success, she enters his world and becomes involved in a dangerous drug bust gone badly. The adventure that ensues takes them from New Orleans to Jamaica where survival depends on their wit and reliance on each other.

My current project, Carolina Shadows, is a suspense that takes place in the N.C. Mountains about a young woman put on trial for the murder of her husband in Houston. She returns to the mountains, revives the horse farm that her aunt has left her only to discover that danger has followed her from Houston and, of course, you know that there is a romance.

flying over the keyboard When and where do you do your best writing?

My corporate life gave me the “nine a.m.” habit. I’m literally a closet writer. With a little redesign, an eight-by tenfoot closet became my office. The best feature is that if company drops in, I simply shut the doors.

How did you get started in writing?

My daughter wanted to attend a writers’ conference and didn’t want to go alone, so she asked me. I was hooked.

Of the minor characters you’ve created, who is your favorite and why?

My stories always seem to have You’ve reinvented yourself from a crusty, wise old man. I pattern this mother to businesswoman to character after my granddad, who equestrian to writer. How has loved to tease and had a way of that infused your writing? imparting truth in one-line parables I was executive vice president – whether you liked it or not. and comptroller for an engineering What has been the highest corporation that my husband and I moment of your writing career? owned in Houston. My daughter and

I have two: seeing my book on I decided to take up riding as a family the shelves of a bookstore for the first project. What I’ve learned from the time and receiving the “Book of The business and riding world, I incorporate Year Award” from my peers. into my books.

How did you meet your What attracts you to writing husband? (We love romance.) suspense?

I got my husband where you get Writing suspense is a way of all the necessities of life – the grocery experiencing the excitement of danger store. He was sixteen and working without putting myself, or my reader, there, while I was fourteen and wearing in real danger. It allows me to learn shorts with majorette boots. I think it about forensics, police procedure and Writing suspense romance novels in the High Country is an was the tassels that got him. things that fascinate me; but the most intriguing change for award - winning novelist, B. J. Foster, who What is your favorite southern important reason is that the bad guys once was executive vice president and comptroller for an food? engineering corporation in Houston. will get punished.

I love Creole cooking. Have What was the biggest lesson been known to fly to New Orleans for you learned in earning your master’s degree in writing lunch, stay for dinner, and fly back to Houston that evening. popular fiction at Seton Hill?

The confidence to rely on my own intuitions and knowledge.

Web site address: www.bayoushadows.net Writing is hard. What tricks do you apply to keep going?

Maggie Bishop lives and writes mystery and romance set Attend a conference or workshop. The enthusiasm of other in Watauga County, NC. Regional books are available at Todd writers and learning new skills spurs me on.

General Store, ArtWalk (Boone), Antiques on Howard (Boone) Do you plot ahead or write by the seat of your pants? and Tuckers on Main (Blowing Rock). http://maggiebishop1.tripod.

Why? com I use both methods. I wouldn’t drive across country without a road map. At the same time, I wouldn’t want to give up exploring interesting places I might stumble upon along the way. When it works, the writing process is like dreaming with your eyes open and, hopefully, fingers

www.aawmag.com

OCTOBER 2009 23

Sue Freeman, executive director of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, with her alter ego Merry Weather. Photo by Mark Mitchell.

Whatever The Weather, “Miss Merry Weather” Is A Ray Of Sunshine

BY SHERRIE NORRIS “Did you ever dream of doing something and, knowing that if you didn’t do whatever it was at that moment, it would just always be a dream and you would always wonder, ‘What if?’”

That’s a question Sue Freeman often ponders but, fortunately, she moved ahead with her dream and had the faith to believe it would come true.

Today, as the executive director of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, Sue doesn’t have time to worry about “what if?” She’s too busy making it happen – and she’s living her dream!

In probably the busiest month of the year for her office in the Banner Elk area, Sue is currently helping lead the High Country toward its 32nd 24 SEPTEMBER 2009

Annual Woolly Worm Festival, an event that has captured international attention and has visitors trekking to the area from coast to coast for one of the country’s most unique festivals. It’s something she loves and it shows.

Sue didn’t just land in her job, she readily admits. “It was part of my journey,” which goes much deeper than a geographical plunge southward several years ago from her home in Pennsylvania.

“In 2004, my employer [in Pennsylvania] decided to retire and gave his employees two options: a great recommendation for a new job or staying on until the business closed its doors.” Sue chose the latter.

“During that time, I had a lot of time to think, ‘What next?’ What did I really want to do?” www.aawmag.com

For several years, she wanted to work for Habitat for Humanity in Georgia. “During that time, I investigated how to get my foot in the door. I was told to go through an affiliate office at the ground level and work my way in. So I sent out hundreds of applications through the VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) program and after many offers from North Carolina, Florida, New England and California, I decided to choose North Carolina.”

She traveled to two sites in the state and immediately fell in love with Avery County. “This was August of 2005. By October, my bags were packed and I was doing volunteer recruitment for Habitat in Avery County and had a family in a house within six months.”

She describes leaving her comfort zone of friends and family and literally taking a leap of faith. “During the planning stage – about 1½ years – I prayed daily that the Lord would do three things for me: put me in a safe environment, find me a great church and use me to make a difference. Well, God put me in Newland, where I found my church at First Baptist and he’s been using me ever since. Dream accomplished!”

A new door opened for Sue in the spring of 2006 when she started working at the Avery County Chamber of Commerce doing special events and then, in the fall, working with the membership.”

Luckily for Sue, she grew up In Pennsylvania where, as kids, she and her friends raced woolly worms down the dirt roads.

“Never could I have ever imagined in my little life back then that one day a big part of my job would be to promote this little critter for the benefit of a community!”

When she assumed the leadership role at the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, Sue not only put her heart into promoting a place she had come to know and love, she really got excited about the annual Woolly Worm Festival.

According to “Mr. Woolly Worm,” Roy Krege, “Sue had a big learning curve to tackle when she came to the Chamber. She has evolved into a very good Chamber executive and Woolly Worm coordinator. Sue is always willing to travel with me to wear our mascot woolly worm outfit for TV shows and other public relations efforts.” With a chuckle, Roy adds, “This is the only time that she is quiet – Merryweather, the mascot, does not talk! Sue is great at being very animated in the Merryweather suit. The kids and adults love to watch her.”

Sue sees the festival’s joint sponsorship by the Chamber and Banner Elk Kiwanis Club as a huge asset to the community.

“One hundred percent of the proceeds, after expenses of course, are returned to the Avery County community as a whole, either through Kiwanis to local children organizations, or through the Avery County Chamber to support small business and tourism.

“The Chamber plays an important role in Avery County because without jobs for the parents, there might not be children in Avery County to give the monies to.”

Sue assumes an important role on both the Woolly Worm committee www.aawmag.com

(comprised of eight volunteers from Kiwanis and the Chamber) and the Avery County Chamber Board of 15 members – and takes each job very seriously.

“As director of the Chamber, I hold our Board to be good stewards of the money we spend and the money we receive. It has been a tough year for many families in our county and we at the Chamber are working harder on outreaching to new venues that will draw more business to Avery County communities. The Woolly Worm Festival is such a great fundraiser for our community and organizations.”

Sue spends a lot of time, year round, working with the committee.

“We meet once a month, from the time the festival ends to the pinnacle of the next year’s festival, to figure out ways of increasing the revenue generated at the festival so we, in turn, can return the proceeds to the community, while still keeping that grassroots feel from where this festival started.

“Jim Morton started this festival in 1977 on a challenge to see if the woolly worm was as good at predicting the High Country winter weather as the folklore said. ‘Mr. Woolly Worm’ swears it has an 87 percent accuracy rate, which is determined by the color of the stripes!”

Sue says her main focus on the committee is to seek out artists from all over the country to fill the 140 food and vendor spots “from where we get our base money.”

She describes how the jurying team selects only those artists who handcraft their wares. “It is a fulltime job that keeps me and the committee thinking, “What next?’”

She readily admits that the festival wouldn’t be successful “without the hundreds of additional volunteers who line fields, take tickets, and spend a weekend making this venue of 23,000 attendees come off seamlessly.”

Her best payoff for the hard work? “Seeing a family making memories from one generation to another.”

Sue says she’s still on the journey and not sure where it will end.

“But be sure, while I am here, I will do everything to find ways of keeping someone else’s dream alive – whether it be in their own business or while they’re just visiting the High Country.”

She invites others to, “Come make a smile and volunteer at the Woolly Worm Festival October 17 & 18. It’s a great way for you to give back to the community and know that your time and efforts will directly affect someone’s life.”

As a vivacious and competent leader among her peers, there’s another vital role to which she gives the biggest part of her heart and soul. “I married my best friend, George Freeman, on March 8, 2009 and we have four wonderful daughters in our family. Brittany lives in Charlotte and is finishing up her nursing degree; Whitney is in Rhode Island and, as a recent graduate of Johnson and Wales University, is gainfully employed at a Verizon Company; and Kristin and Jessica, of Boone, are both seniors at Watauga High School.”

Make plans now to visit Sue and all the crew at this year’s Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk. Whatever the weather, you can count on warmth from Miss Merry Weather!

SEPTEMBER 2009 25

Minding Her Own Business| BY JENNIFER WALKER

Hobby Turns Full-time In A Flash

Debbie Devita. Photo by Janet Boscker.

“Debbie did my engagement photos 15 years ago and we have used her ever since. She has become a dear friend and we always have a good time. Her work is phenomenal and she is a pleasure to do business with.”

– Amy Dollars

Most of us would love to turn our favorite hobby into a career, but for many, it never happens. Debbie DeVita has been fortunate to do just that, but it wasn’t her original plan.

Debbie first began taking photographs as a hobby, then as a part-time job in 1989. A decade later, photography became her fulltime career after she was laid off from her regular job and needed a way to make a living.

The timing could not have been more perfect as it gave her the extra push she needed to finally do what she loved. It didn’t come easily, though, and she had to take classes, read books and assist other accomplished photographers to gain experience.

With much familiarity and skill in dark room developing gained through the years, Debbie recently began processing everything digitally. Every picture she offers her clients has received the utmost in time, attention and detail to insure the very best quality possible.

Debbie is well known for her portraits of children, families, and expectant mothers, and does headshots, a lot of commercial work, and equine photos. Working energizes her and enables her to put her subjects at ease in comfortable settings. This helps her connect, she says, and to capture the true picture of her subjects so they feel natural and do not appear stiff or posed. Debbie’s studio is a great setup that allows her to get the perfect picture. If her clients prefer something outdoors, her personal property offers picture-perfect landscapes in just the right environmental setting. When the weather is nice, Debbie enjoys taking family pictures on the pond, or

by the rock outcroppings – countless photo ops abound on her property. And pets are welcome, too!

The Gliberts from Blowing Rock, NC. Photo by Debbie Devita.

As an equestrian, she specializes in equine photography, but she’s branching out to include families and their pets.

It’s time to start thinking about holiday cards and gifts for those special occasions.

What about a coffee table photo book? Give Debbie Devita a call. She loves what she does and makes sure that you enjoy the entire experience from beginning to end.

For more information or to schedule a session with Debbie, please call her studio at (828) 264-1466 and visit her Web site at www.devitaphoto.com.

“ We love Debbie and have used her many times. She is unique and talented.

Her animal pictures are amazing, too.”

–Melissa Horney

Caleb and Connor Horney.

Photo by Debbie Devita.

“I have ultimate respect for Debbie. She is a great friend and person. She has an eye for beauty and perspective and is great with adults, children and animals.”

– Barbara Avant 26 OCTOBER 2009

Horses owned by Debbie Olmstead in Waxhaw, NC. Photo by Debbie Devita.

www.aawmag.com

Bloom Where You’re Planted| BY SHERRY BOONE Sherry takes us back to her Letters From Myrtle, many of which are found in her book, A Bloomin’ Bouquet, in which her feisty southern alter ego, Myrtle, shares true stories about life with all its joys and tribulations with husband Barney and friends like Claudine.

Dear Claudine, Here it is October

Wild horses couldn’ta pulled me outta

was happy to live where folks watched out

that house.

for each other.”

Here come a deputy’s car flyin’ up to

“That’s good. I wouldn’t want her to

and time for fun with the children. A few

the house and then it promptly left and

think I’m nosy. Landladies are sometimes

years back, though, I didn’t have too much

went next door!

accused of bein’ nosy, you know.”

fun near Halloween. Let me tell you about

it.

911 again. “The law came and went and

evenin’ was kinda borin’ and asked what

the robbers are still robbin’.”

kind of evenin’ I had and wanted to know if

It was a few nights before Halloween

I didn’t do a thing in this world but call

When Barney got home, he said his

when Barney wanted to go to one of them

antique auctions, and I told him to go on

was under control and they went next door

without me and I’d stay home and write.

to see if the problem was there.

been here. You really should’a been here. I

I was told that the officers said everything

I got a lot of writin’ done.

“No, I didn’t, Barney. You should’a

“Well, I’m here to tell you, everything

needed you tonight, Barney. Well, I thought

a racket from up the road and did not like

ain’t under control. In fact, the robbers are

I needed you, anyways, and I’m ever so glad

what I saw! Just a very dim light was on in

in control as we speak.”

you’re home, sweetheart.”

the house and some stranger was walkin’

around outside in the dark with a flashlight

was told that they’d stop and talk to me.

Have a wonderful October, Claudine.

in his hand!

That was fine with me ‘cause I was tired of

Love, Myrtle, your friend forever.

That’s what I was doing when I heard

“Mercy,” I said to myself, “there’s a

So, the officers were sent back and I

talkin’ to myself and gettin’ no answers.

prowler up there and nobody’s home!”

They told me that they was havin’ a

About that time a truck come flyin’ by

Halloween party up there and the back light

our house goin’ up the hill and then backed

burned out and they backed the truck up to

up to the steps that led up to that house.

stand on to change the light bulb!

“My Lord, Myrtle,” I said, “robbers

“You mean the party’s tonight? Did you

are about to unload the furniture in that

talk to the man that lives there?” I asked.

house!”

Now, me and Barney own that furnished

“Yea. We spoke to the man that lives

there.”

house and I don’t mind tellin’ you my heart

was racin’, Claudine.

solvin’ a mystery and said, “What did this

“Stay calm, Myrtle, this ain’t no time to

By now, I was feelin’ like Columbo

man look like?”

panic,” I said. “Dial 911.”

black hair.”

I was so nervous I could barely speak

“He’s kinda short, has a beard and

above a whisper when the law answered

my 911 call and asked what my emergency

who rents that house happens to be a tall

was.

young man with light hair and wears it in a

“Robbers are gettin’ ready to unload a

“Whoa, hold on, Buddy Boy! The man

pony tail.”

house up on the hill and I’m home alone

and there ain’t nobody at home up there

they talked to the young woman who lives

and I don’t know when Barney’s gettin’

there who told them everything was fine.

back.” I was talkin’ faster and faster as I

The inside lights were out so’s it would look

went along.

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That it did, believe me, Claudine.

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“By the way, did you tell her that I

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“No,” I whispered.

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“Then speak up. I can’t hear you either.

twice?”

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“No. She didn’t ask but she did say she

OCTOBER 2009 27

Featuring

Andy Griffith and Roy Krege

Andy Griffith

Always On A Mission

BY VICKI RANDOLPH No doubt Andy Griffith has heard countless comments about his name, Men. He’s also been to Vermont through a NC Baptist Partnership to but he doesn’t seem to mind. Although he and the TV sheriff do have help restore a historical stone church built in 1834. He says he had a some similarities (always kind with a smile for everyone), this High great trip doing concrete work, painting, metal finishing, tile work and other odd jobs. His hunger for missions work only grew through that Country Andy Griffith is the real deal!

Andy is originally from nearby Floyd, Virginia, but he has been a trip.

In 2007, Andy had an opportunity to travel to the small village of North Carolina resident for more than twenty years. He began his long career with the State of North Carolina working for the Department of Vascauti in the “new” country of Moldova. The Republic of Maldova Corrections. During that time, he began is a small landlocked country in eastern working with the BRIDGE program.

Europe with a long, complicated history BRIDGE (Building, Rehabilitating, dotted with wars and changes in power Developing, Growing, Employing) is a since the first century. Andy was part cooperative effort with the NC Division of a 21-person team from the High of Forest Resources, which trains Country to travel to the historically rich, and utilizes non-violent inmates and but economically suffering country. provides them with rehabilitation and

The team stayed in an orphanage education while helping to manage the and helped with construction of a state’s natural resources. church sanctuary, as well as with work

Andy enjoyed his work as a project on a vision clinic and Bible school.

Of course the best part, he says, was leader for many years – fighting fires and playing with the kids from the village! working with the young crew members, The smiles on the faces of the children until an opportunity arose for him to and the workers captured in his photos switch gears. Being able to stay with attest to the special bonds that were the state and enjoy even more outdoor made during their two weeks together. work made the move to NC State Parks Even though they were from worlds a perfect fit. apart, through the help of language

Andy has been stationed at Mount interpreters, they became very close.

Jefferson State Natural Area since He loves mission work and hopes to 1997, and continues to enjoy his varied travel back to Maldova again. experiences. Of course, he still works

Andy and his wife Rhonda are with the BRIDGE crews when they come to Mount Jefferson to do trail work or also currently on a mission a little closer other maintenance projects. Andy must to home—as foster parents! “We felt be one of the kindest supervisors they the Lord was leading us to be foster work with, and surely their favorite, as parents and to adopt, so we became he often personally provides them with The “real” Andy Griffith makes the world around him a licensed.” They were “sort of thinking” better place, as this scene with an orphan in Moldova clearly homemade hot lunches and occasional they would host older kids and teens, indicates. pancake breakfasts. he says with a laugh. Although they did

Even when he is not at work, Andy host a couple of teens short-term, they is still always working to help others. He is multi-talented and it seems received a call in January asking for help.

“DSS called and said ‘We have a couple of children, but they’re that there’s no job he can’t handle – thus, the nickname Handy Andy!

He tirelessly helps out at his church and on missions with NC Baptist young.’ ‘How young?’ I asked them. ‘Two-month-old and 14-month28 OCTOBER 2009

www.aawmag.com

old brothers,’ was the response. You just never know,” he says.

Now the Griffiths’ lives are full, with the little boys adding a lot of excitement. “They are good boys, they are thriving and growing, and they’re a lot of fun,” he continues. “They keep me young!” He also has two older sons, so he finds it rather ironic that he’d be feeding a bottle to a three-month-old while his 23-year-old is in the Air Force.

He reminds others that the High Country is in dire need of foster parents and there’s a desperate need for foster homes. “It takes such a long time for these kids to get through the system, and then there’s nowhere for them to go. These kids need one-on-one attention that only parents can give,” he states passionately.

Whether seeking missions on the home front or abroad, “There are lots of places to serve—you’ve just got to be willing to be used,” says Andy. “If you want to be used, just say, ‘Lord, use me,’ and He will! You’ve just got to be willing to make that commitment. I’m not that exciting,” he claims. “I enjoy what I do at the park, with church involvement, and I love mission work. I’ve got a hectic life, but I enjoy it.”

This Andy Griffith may not think he’s too exciting, but the world is definitely a better place for having him as a part of it!

Young Men In Our Lives

(above left) Ryan Maltba, six-year-old first-grader at Crossnore Elementary School, bids farewell to summer – and his tonsils – just days before the new school year begins.

(above right) John Church of Boone has a reflective moment at a very special occasion recently during which he gave his mother’s hand in marriage.

(center) Daniel Brown,Watauga High School junior, aspiring agriculturist and cattleman, is perfectly content anywhere - as long as it’s outdoors. (below left) Nothing but fun on the horizon for these four-wheeling friends, Garrett Norris and David Odom.

www.aawmag.com

(below right) Zachary Jones has an eye for close calls as evidenced by his judging skills to determine the winning shot in a croquet match.

OCTOBER 2009 29

“October gave a party; The leaves by hundreds came – The Chestnuts, Oaks, and Maples, And leaves of every name.

The Sunshine spread a carpet, And everything was grand, Miss Weather led the dancing, Professor Wind the band.”

– George Cooper, October’s Party

Photo by Sherrie Norris.

Mr. Woolly Worm – Avery’s Own Roy Krege

BY NANCY MORRISON

“Mama, who’s that funny-looking man,” whispers the toddler, big-eyed with wonder.

“Why, that’s Mr. Woolly Worm!” her mother whispers back.

And indeed it is. Banner Elk’s Roy Krege, dubbed “Mr. Woolly Worm” for many years, is the most familiar face of the Woolly Worm Festival, which is held in Banner Elk each October. In his pink pants and yellow tie, he is hard to miss as he emcees the woolly worm races, promotes the Festival at other local events, and gives out good will everywhere he goes.

The Woolly Worm Festival, where “children” of all ages race the tiny brown and black woolly worm (or woolly bear as it is sometimes called) to see what the winning worm will predict for the coming winter’s weather, is in its 32nd year. Roy has been a part of the Festival since its beginning. He doesn’t remember just when people started calling him “Mr. Woolly Worm.”

He says, “I have been helping with the Festival from the start. Actually Marion [Roy’s charming wife] and I made funnel cakes the first year with our electric frying pan.”

He says he owes a lot to Marion and his family for their support over the years. “After all, how would you like to go out with a grown man in pink pants, an outfit with worms all over 32 OCTOBER 2009

it, and a crazy hat? Thirty-two years of that kind of behavior is a lot to tolerate!”

Avery County residents marvel at Roy’s energy. “Ubiquitous” is a word he personifies, as one can find him everywhere promoting his beloved festival.

“Usually, when I get involved with something, I go at it full force. I think my announcing the races was the start of my role as ‘Mr. Woolly Worm.’ Then I started wearing different outfits that finally evolved into the one I wear today to promote the Festival.”

Roy often wears his familiar costume to parades, square dances, auctions he calls, speeches he gives, and other events where he can put in a plug for his favorite festival.

“The Woolly Worm hat and shirt have been worn all over the USA and to other countries where I get asked, ‘What’s a woolly worm festival?’ or ‘What’s on your shirt?’ and, boy, do they get the full story!”

As a longtime member of the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club and a former board member for the Avery County Chamber of Commerce – the two sponsors of the Festival – Roy helps with all phases of the Festival. Always modest, he makes light of his involvement, preferring to spotlight the many other volunteers who contribute almost endless time and energy.

“Needless to say, the Festival would not be the success it www.aawmag.com

Kiwanis projects and Chamber promotions, many non-profit organizations are given free booth space to promote their efforts. According to Roy, the Festival has a tremendous impact on the entire region by bringing business to motels, hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, filling stations, and many other retail establishments.

While all of the above is certainly very important, what matters almost as much to area residents is that they see Roy’s familiar face and hear his deep booming voice (he usually has no voice left when the Festival is over each year!) calling the woolly worm races. Without Mr. Woolly Worm, the Woolly Worm Festival and Avery County just wouldn’t be the same.

“Ready, set, start your worms!”

is today without the help of many volunteer individuals and groups, as well as cooperation with the Banner Elk School, the Town of Banner Elk, Lees-McRae College, and all of our special friends from the press, radio, and television. The Festival has certainly far exceeded any of our expectations. It really proves that a great idea – thanks to Jim Morton and friends – that is somewhat unique in concept can be so favorably accepted by the community and the world. And the greatest thing is to know that all our volunteer efforts support so many great causes for the children of our area through the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club and help to promote businesses, towns, and communities in Avery County and the surrounding area through the work of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce. The Festival also helps to support and promote tourism, both to our region and to our state.”

Roy points out that the Woolly Worm Committee, composed of members from both Kiwanis and the Chamber, works all year long to plan each festival and to guide the many volunteers’ efforts. In addition to the funds raised directly for www.aawmag.com

OCTOBER 2009 33

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The Dental Practice of Dr. James B. Graham Jr, D.D.S. announces its relocation.

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www.aawmag.com

All About Beauty

by Kelly

I find it difficult sometimes just to relax and give my body a break from a grueling routine. One way that I can soothe my senses and try to relax is by using essential oils. Since I work at Lavender Fields, I am most definitely familiar with the essential oil, lavender, its aromatic presence and how it provides not only me, but also many clients, with a sense of relaxation. Lavender is just one of many oils available for relaxation as well as for stimulation for those bodies experiencing fatigue.

Various oils play can play an important part in providing the body with medicinal and healing properties.

Treating Body, Mind And Soul Aromatherapy has been an ancient practice for many years and its purpose has been to treat the body, mind and soul. Herbs from plants often have medicinal and healing properties, as the essential oils can affect one’s emotions and the brain. When receiving a massage or facial treatment including essential oils, the skin becomes more beautiful and radiant due to the healing properties of these oils – in addition to the removal of toxins and increased blood circulation in the body.

Examples Of How Body Systems Are Influenced By Essential Oils The Integumentary System is composed of the skin and its many accessory organs such as oil and sweat sensory receptors, hair and nails.

Oils that help: Peppermint – Used to help with acne, toothaches, detoxification, relieves itching, inflammation, softens skin, removes blackheads, helps retain water in tissue and cools skin.

Chamomile – Helps with more severe cases of acne, rosacea, allergies, cuts, eczema (inflammation of the epidermis), sensitive skin, teething pain, and skin ulcers.

Lavender – Helps balance sebum (oil production) in all skin types, acne, eczema, psoriasis, bruises, severe burns, scars, thread veins, wound, ulcers, cuts, blisters, allergies and it is cleansing and detoxifying to the skin.

Lemon – Assists in dealing with mouth ulcers, herpes, acne, warts, sebum imbalance, strengthens epidermis function, tightens blood vessels, and protects against infections. www.aawmag.com

Eucalyptus – Works to heal burns, blisters, cuts, herpes, insect bites, lice, skin infections, wounds, affects the dermal layer (layer of skin below the epidermis), increases respiratory system metabolism of skin cells and ultimately oxygenates the skin.

Clary Sage – Helps with acne, boils, dandruff, hair loss, inflamed or puffy skin, oily skin, ulcers, and wrinkles.

The Nervous System encompasses the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It controls and coordinates the many other systems of the body in order for them to work harmoniously and efficiently.

Oils that assist: Rose – Helps with depression, insomnia, migraines, headaches, nervous tension, melancholy, poor memory.

Spearmint – Fatigue, headaches, migraines, nervous strain, stress, exhaustion, and stimulating.

Clove – Fatigue, stimulates mind and memory, uplifting, headaches, combats drowsiness.

Tea Tree – Helps with shock, debility, nervous exhaustion/depression, stimulant.

Lemongrass – It sedates the body, helps with headaches, stress, nervous exhaustion, irritability, and lack of concentration.

What about Phytotherapy? This is when plant extracts are used for therapeutic benefits. The parts of the plant that are used for making oils include the roots, bark, seeds, stem, and flowers.

When considering treatment with essential oils, whether personally or professionally administered, it is important to

know that some of the oils are very powerful and can irritate the skin or senses if not used properly.

Please consult your health foods store representative, massage therapist, esthetician, or even your dermatologist before using essential oils for your home skin regimen.

The following are general categories in which oils are placed according to their benefiting factors: Aromatic – lavender, rose, and eucalyptus Antiseptics (they destroy or inhibit bacteria) – peppermint, tea tee, clove Astringents (they contract tissue and reduce secretions of the skin) – witch hazel and lemon.

Stimulating – eucalyptus, wintergreen, lavender, spearmint Calming – chamomile, almond, lavender Cleansing – lemongrass, witch hazel, aloe Healing – chamomile, aloe Moisturizing – rose, chamomile

Kelly Penick Lavender Fields Day Spa 820-C State Farm Road Boone, NC 28607 828-773-3587 OCTOBER 2009 35

The Haunted Mill Trail of Terror Returns of big trees and shrubs and dark shadowy places.

“I decided to take advantage of what we had and created the Haunted Mill Tail of Terror.”

That first year, she recalls, was a real learning experience for her and Travis, but the haunt was still a success.

“We raised over $700 in contributions with all proceeds going to the American Cancer Society.”

Over the next two years, the Haunted Mill Trail of Terror grew in size and attendance.

In 2005, over 1,000 people walked the trail and over $3,000 was raised.

“At that point, Travis and I decided to take a break to assess the direction we wanted to go with the Haunted Mill Trail of Terror. It had become so large and popular we were unsure if we could do anymore to grow and improve it.”

How could she have known, she has Dr. Sandra Phillips, pictured here with Jimmyjac, wears many hats and is easily recognized as the executive director of the Watauga Campus of Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute in since wondered, about the profound change that would take place in her life just two Boone, as well a very capable auctioneer, community volunteer, columnist and much more! short months later?

“Travis, my beloved husband of 25 years,

BY SHERRIE NORRIS died suddenly and unexpectedly.

Nothing could have prepared me PHOTOS BY MARK A. THOMPSON for the shock and finality of such a loss. The Haunted Mill Trail of Sandra Phillips is a confessed “Halloweenie.” Halloween, she Terror had been our project and Travis had been the best haunt admits, has long held a strange fascination for her. As a child, she partner I could have had.” could hardly wait for that mysterious, magical date of October 31st In 2006, Sandra made the difficult and painful decision to close the Haunted Mill Trail of Terror. For many who had visited, it was to arrive.

“My affinity for all things Halloween only intensified as I grew a tremendous loss; they told Sandra how much they missed what into an adult. I filled my home inside and out with all manner had become a Halloween tradition for them and their families of Halloween decorations and devised ever more elaborate “Haunting is in my blood and I sorely missed producing the trail, but how could I do it by myself?” costumes.”

Sandra worked at Tweetsie’s Halloween Festival – currently Fate stepped in, she says. She met and subsequently married a kind and understanding man who realized how much she loved known as Ghost Train – for over five years, as a scare-actor.

“It was tremendous fun and a great training ground for an haunting.

“Tex has agreed to help me reopen the Haunted Mill Trail of amateur haunter.”

Visiting haunted attractions became another passion for her Terror this year. Words cannot express my gratitude to him for and each Halloween she discovered more and more of them – allowing me to pursue my passion once again.”

So after a three-year hiatus, Sandra is pulling out the coffins, observing and learning.

“Finally, I was ready to create my own haunt and in 2003 with fog machines, fake blood, costumes, and other props used to scare those unwary enough to walk her trail. And she cannot wait to do the help of my husband, Travis Anderson, that’s just what I did.”

Describing her home as “quite unusual” – a millhouse with a it! large working water wheel – Sandra says the one-acre yard is full Come meet Winnie Mae Vanderpool who is just your ordinary 36 OCTOBER 2009

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This year’s event is dedicated to the memory of Sandra’s late husband, Travis Anderson, and also to her recently deceased father, Council Main.

“Travis helped construct the first three trails and was the best haunt partner I could have ever had,” Sandra shares. “Without him, it would never have happened to begin with. My father came to every trail and helped entertain the crowds with his stories. He supported me in every way possible as I planned and produced each year’s event. Although these two are now gone, their spirits are still with me. I know they would both want me to carry on and create the best trail ever – and raise money for Relay for Life.”

Dr. Sandra Phillips, creator and producer of Haunted Mill Trail of Terror, is also known in her “day job” as executive director of the Watauga Campus of Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute in Boone.

Mark your calendars now for the Haunted Mill Trail of Terror – one weekend only – October 23 - 24, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m., located at 338 Vanderpool Road, off Hwy. 421 North, Winnie Mae Vanderpool, an ordinary run- in Vilas. For more of-the-mill, everyday female serial killer, information, visit www. awaits your arrival at the Haunted Mill Trail vanderpoolhauntedmill. of Terror. com www.aawmag.com

OCTOBER 2009 37

Behind The Scenes Of The Woolly Worm Festival efforts of children’s services and other nonprofits that benefit from the money we raise.”

She adds, “The profits from the Woolly Worm Festival support countywide projects as well as target the children of Avery County as set forth by the Kiwanis Club charter. There have been many local organizations that have benefitted from the dollars earned at the Woolly Worm Festival through the years and, this year, the success of the festival is of utmost important to the committee, in light of the economic strain.”

Nancy Morrison, publisher of The Avery Journal-Times and All About Women of the High Country magazine, is also a devoted committee member who does everything in her power to help promote the festival, and says, “It is important to note that, although Kathy, Sue and I just happen to be the women on the Woolly Worm Committee at present, The Woolly Worm Committee (left to right): Roy Krege, Nancy Morrison, David Passmore, Sue there are many, many more talented, creative, Freeman, Barry Sutton (behind Sue), mascot Merry Weather, Mac Gowan, Kathy Boone and Rick and energetic women behind the scenes who Garrett. volunteer each year and without whom the Since 1978, the Avery County town of Banner Elk has welcomed Festival could not happen. And, of course, we thousands each year for what has become an international phenomenon can’t forget our men who volunteer and work so hard and long each known as The Woolly Worm Festival, a unique event that attracts young year to make everything come together seamlessly. The Woolly Worm and old alike from every corner of the United States and beyond.

Festival is a group effort with hundreds of people who believe in our area, From the time one festival ends and the next one begins, a group our people, our children, and our businesses and who are willing to get of dedicated community activists are working diligently behind the scenes involved and work hard to contribute to the good of our community.” to keep the tradition alive and to promote the festival far and wide. She adds, “On a personal level, I’ve always loved those little furry From setup to cleanup and organizing every detail – large or small – in creatures! The fact that we can raise money to support our children and between, there is an eight-member committee, (including, of course, to promote our industry and tourism with woolly worms just blows my some dynamic women!) leading hundreds of volunteers in a valiant effort to make each festival bigger and better than the one before.

Committee members are comprised equally of representatives of both sponsoring agencies, the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club - two groups who join forces year round to promote the unique festival and draw tens of thousands of visitors to the area every third weekend of October. However, their efforts do not stop there as each has a vested interest in their community as a whole and work hard to attract visitors to the area during each season.

In a recent conversation with the “Women of the Woolly Worm,” along with Roy Krege – Mr. Woolly Worm himself – we learned that that each member possesses a strong commitment for his or her involvement, as described by long-time member Kathy Boone, who says, “There are few words to describe the depth of our passion for serving on this committee. We, as Chamber members and Kiwanians, are working hand-in-hand to not only promote community spirit, but to support the Sue Freeman, Nancy Morrison, Kathy Boone, and “friends.”

38 OCTOBER 2009

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mind! Isn’t that a great thing? And the Festival is such fun. We have expanded our special section for children’s activities this year and our vendors are better than ever. Don’t miss out on all the fun. And, by the way, if you want to get involved, we can always use more help. Just call Sue at the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at 828-898-5605.”

Long-time Woolly Worm Festival promoter, Roy Krege, states, “All in all, it is a great effort from the Avery Chamber and The Banner Elk Kiwanis Club working together to make the Festival a success. Needless to say, the Festival would not be the success it is today without the help of many volunteer individuals and groups as well as cooperation with the Banner Elk School, the Town of Banner Elk, Lees-McRae College, and all of our special friends from the press, radio, and television.”

When asked if he ever imagined the event reaching such heights – to become an national weather forecast resource, he replied, “The Festival has certainly far exceeded any of our expectations. It really proves that a great idea – starting with Jim Morton and friends – that is somewhat unique in concept can be so favorably accepted by the community and the world. The greatest thing is to know that all our volunteer efforts support so many great causes for the children of our area through the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club and help to promote businesses, towns and communities in Avery County and the surrounding area through the work of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce. The Festival has also helped to support and promote tourism to our region and to the State. Anything else that would help promote the Kiwanis/WW/BE community, etc., will be most appreciated. We encourage individuals and organizations to assist with the Festival.”

Krege adds, “My pet peeve is when folks say they they get out of town that weekend because of so much traffic. I encougage them to get involved and be part of the effort to bring enjoyment to so many people and to raise funds that have a significant impact on the youth of our area and our school system. Numerous non-profit organizations are given free booth space to promote their efforts. The Festival has a tremendous impact on the entire region by helping to fill motels hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, gas stations and other retail establishments.”

Don’t miss this one of a kind festival where racing woolly worms is a highlight. Being the predictor of the coming winter weather is the honor bestowed upon the winner of the final heat on Saturday. Woolly worms are racing all day each day for this two-day event with the championship race held late Saturday afternoon. You will find great food, a “woad wace,” live entertainment, plenty of kids’ activities, and lots of talented arts and craft vendors.

How does the woolly worm predict the winter weather? As the late Charles Von Canon once explained, “The Wooly Bear caterpillar has 13 brown and black segments that correspond to the 13 weeks of winter. The lighter brown a segment is, the milder that week of winter will be. The darker black a segment is, the colder and snowier the corresponding week will be.” The winner of the final heat becomes the survivor of the fittest and is used to for prognasticating. It’s been done that way for decades by the local farmers and proves to be, well, a pretty reliable source of what’s to come.

So mark your calendar for October 17 and 18 and come watch the antics of some of the cutest little critters of the High Country!

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OCTOBER 2009 39

Heartfelt| BY TERI WIGGANS

Angels Without Wings

Recently a client from the Heartfelt Healing Center shared that she saw both Dr. Williams and me as “Angels without Wings” set down in Boone by God to help with healing folks. At first I was taken aback by what seemed like a grandiose thought. Then I really began reflecting on it and came up with a different perspective. My idea of an angel is a being of God who brings light into the world. Webster’s Dictionary defines angel as “a messenger of God, a guiding spirit or influence.” I truly believe we are all angels on earth; we just don’t happen to always see ourselves in that light. The Bible says, “As you think, so shall ye be.” What would it take to believe that not only are we angels, but that everyone we meet is an angel?

You know we use our imaginations every moment of our waking and sleeping states, thinking in mental images or pictures. We have the ability and choice to think whatever way we so desire. Why not create a mental image of an angel without wings? We are all messengers of God and have light and love to share. From the book called A Course in Miracles, a very simple yet profound thought is, “God is but love and therefore, so am I.”

We are all love, which means we cannot be hate or fear or cruelty or sadness or unworthy or stupid or any of those labels we have given ourselves. Why do we seem to go into the negative pit of those images rather than stay with the angel image? I believe it’s because we do not believe we have a choice in seeing ourselves a different way. Our environment glorifies war and greed and fear by focusing on those images and then, because we put energy behind those images, they tend to manifest.

A prime example is the fearful image that is being projected in newspapers, on TV and the Internet proclaiming that about half of the American population will contact swine flu. Fear actually causes our immune systems to become weaker and we do become more susceptible to bugs. By believing we are “angels without wings,” messengers of God, pure love made in God’s image, we can actually create a very strong immune system so that the swine flu or any other flu won’t have a chance of settling in.

I just completed teaching the second class of the course entitled, “Believing is Seeing.” There were 10 beautiful women, “angels without wings,” who participated. Some of the women came because they saw a value in learning more about how to become empowered and others came because they were encouraged to by their support agency. I received the gift of observing each woman transform from believing they had no choices in life to actually practicing with the tools given in class and realizing that choices are available. They could stay in a place of being a “victim or disempowered” or choose to believe in their power and make a positive ripple in their life as well as their children’s. The last of four classes was filled with love for themselves and for each other. They glowed and radiated hope, having witnessed, “Believing is Seeing.”

I am an “angel without wings” and I am choosing to believe everyone else is also an “angel without wings.” Perhaps I was plopped down in Boone to make a difference in how much light is radiated from 40 OCTOBER 2009

this part of the mountain. I believe we have a wonderful opportunity to create a community together of angels. Imagine what that would look like.

Boone has many beautiful qualities such as multiple organizations that help each other in times of need, one being the High Country Women’s Fund, which supported the class, “Believing is Seeing.”

There’s a huge circle of community support around Appalachian State University football team and many opportunities to expand knowledge through institutions such as the community colleges, ASU and the Institute of Noetic Science.

I have lived in many cities and towns and truly appreciate the friendliness, the ability to rally when people are in need, the richness of mountain music and culture as well as the versatility that Boone presents. Imagine all of this being enhanced with our image of “angels without wings” being everywhere.

“There is a law in psychology that if you form a picture in your mind of what you would like to be, and you keep and hold that picture there long enough, you will soon become exactly as you have been thinking.” William James (1842-1910) an American philosopher, psychologist, and teacher.

Teri Wiggans, RN, MSN, is a health practitioner at the Heartfelt Healing Center (828)264-4443.

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The Pumpkin Patch is Calling

BY SHERRIE NORRIS

Pumpkin Pound Cake Makes two 9” X 5” loaves, 16 servings each 2 cups packed light brown sugar 2 cups margarine or butter 4 cups all - purpose flour 2 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. cinnamon 2 tsp. ginger 1 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. salt 6 large eggs 1 can pumpkin (16 oz.)

2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 Tbsp. orange juice (optional) Preheat oven to 325. Grease two 9” x 5” loaf pans. In large bowl with mixer at low speed, beat brown sugar and margarine or butter just until blended. Increase speed to high; beat until light and fluffy. Reduce speed to low; add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, eggs and pumpkin; beat until well mixed, scraping bowl frequently with rubber spatula. Increase speed to high; beat 2 minutes, occasionally scraping bowl. Spoon batter into pans. Bake loaves 70 - 75 min. until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool loaves in pans on wire racks 10 minutes; remove from pans and finish cooling on racks.

2 cups sugar 1 cup oil 2 cups plain flour 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. soda ½ tsp. salt 2 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. cloves ½ tsp. nutmeg ½ tsp. ginger

Sprinkle over filling. Bake 45-50 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve with Cool Whip.

Pumpkin Pecan Bread (Makes 3 loaves) 3 ½ cups self-rising flour 1½ tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. nutmeg 3 cups sugar 2 cups canned pumpkin 1 cup oil 4 eggs 2/3 cup water 1 cup chopped nuts Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour three loaf pans. Sift together flour, cinnamon and nutmeg. Add sugar and mix well. Add oil, eggs, water and pumpkin all at once. Mix well, then add nuts. Pour into pans, filling each half full. Bake for 30 minutes or until toothpick stuck in middle comes out clean.

Pumpkin Bars 4 eggs 15 oz. can pumpkin or 1½ to 2 cups fresh, cooked pumpkin

Mix first four ingredients in large bowl. Sift dry ingredients and stir into pumpkin mixture.

Mix well and pour into greased and floured 12” x 18” pan for bars. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 35 minutes.

Cream Cheese Frosting 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese ¾ stick margarine or butter 4 cups powdered sugar 1 Tbsp. milk 1 tsp. vanilla

Mix well and top cooled bars.

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2 eggs 2/3 c. evaporated milk ½ cup brown sugar 2 tsp. cinnamon Topping: 1 cup reserved cake mix ½ cup sugar ¼ cup margarine or butter 1 tsp. cinnamon Measure 1 cup of cake mix; set aside for topping. Combine the remaining cake mix, melted margarine and egg. Press mixture into greased 9” x 13” cake pan (press hard).

Combine the filling and pour over cake mixture in pan. Combine ingredients for topping. www.aawmag.com

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Pet Page| BY GENEVIEVE AUSTIN

A Place Where Animals Talk and People Listen

If you’ve never visited an alpaca farm before, you should plan to take a picturesque drive high above Banner Elk to Apple Hill Farm, home to seven species of animals and an apple orchard where fun is the order of the day. It’s not just what you’ll see there – but also what you’ll hear that keeps you smiling long after you leave.

Just another day in paradise at Apple Hill Farm for Lee Rankin and son,Will.

Photos by Genevieve Austin.

Previously a place where just Christmas trees and a large apple orchard flourished, Apple Hill Farm is now a 40-acre spread run by an outgoing, dedicated, animal loving woman named Lee Rankin.

The time-honored apple orchard still stands and is enhanced by a menagerie of intriguing animal life, a gift shop and so much more.

Admitting that the animals are now the main attraction, Lee and her employees wear shirts enhanced with a clear message – A place where animals talk and people listen. Take it literally.

The majestic beauty of the farm gives visitors pause to take a deep, relaxing breath to ensure they drink in the setting. Since reservations are requested, guests are welcomed upon arrival by the farm’s busy and lighthearted staff who, more often than not, can be found working side by side with their star attractions.

The next greeting one hears will most likely be either 42 OCTOBER 2009

braying, whinnying, chirping, barking, meowing, bleating – or a combination of the above – with a quieter, more subdued welcome from the alpacas.

The animal chorus is simply delightful! The familiar braying of the security guards – the donkeys – is more of a crooning than anything else.

The llamas often seem to appear curious about their visitors; the alpacas might offer a glance in the same direction. Cowboy, the Don Juan of donkeys, may sweep guests off their feet with his gorgeous brown eyes, high cheek bones and his charming, amazingly loud bray.

The history of Apple Hill Farm and how it evolved is equally engaging. Owner Lee Rankin was not a farmer. In fact, she is the author of a (gourmet) cookbook and her writing is often found in other publications. Before moving to North Carolina, she lived in Kentucky and in the Catskill Mountains of New York.

She and her son are well suited to the mountains, she admits.

Upon discovering the farm, she took a leap of faith and began a most exciting journey with alpacas.

A year later, a tragic attack, apparently by a wild animal, took the lives of four of her alpacas. One other, named Mojo, survived the brutal attack and still wears scars from what Lee feels certain was a mountain lion. Lee discovered from other alpaca farmers that the most reliable security system for alpacas is having a donkey on the farm. The menagerie began to grow and now living on Apple Hill Farm are eight donkeys, nine goats, 14 chickens, two cats, four dogs, five horses, 22 alpacas and two llamas.

Lee and her staff strongly believe that animals need a purpose, so every animal on the farm has a job or position and each is treated with great care, respect and love. Their passion is to empower people to develop a new and deeper connection with animals through a long list of interventions: farm tours (including NC School Farm Tours), alpaca breeding and sales, breeding miniature donkeys, goat breeding and offering NC Boer Goats for sale, horse boarding, alpaca shearing and care clinics, animal communication and Reiki workshops, aromatherapy classes, intensive healing care for horses and gentling of mistreated animals. www.aawmag.com

Apple Hill Farm is delightful and a truly memorable place to visit. Saturday’s public tours begin in mid-May and continue to mid-October. Scheduled in advance, private and group tours are available year round. A busy holiday season starts the weekend before Thanksgiving and continues through the second weekend in December. Many families make their trek to Apple Hill Farm in search of the perfect Christmas tree each year (grown on the award–winning What Fir! Christmas Tree Farm), and to enjoy mini farm tours for a small fee. Visitors will also be able to order custommade wreaths and choose unique gifts from the Apple Hill Farm Store. The public is invited to come and enjoy the Christmas spirit at Apple Hill Farm where every barn on the farm will be decorated with wreaths and the animals will showcase their own stockings!

Scheduled dates and times are Nov 21 - 22, Nov 27 - 29, Dec 5 - 6, Dec 12 - 13, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and by appointment on other days. (Call to confirm in case of snow or ice.)

In the meantime, Apple Hill Farm celebrated National Alpaca Farm Day in late September, joining over 1,000 participating farms across the country for the special occasion.

For more of Apple Hill Farm, visit their booth at The Great Train Robbery, 2120 Tynecastle Highway/ NC-184, in Banner Elk, where you will find a large selection of alpaca clothing, socks, scarves and throws. unusual handcrafted gift items, kitchen items, etc.

And, don’t miss the farm’s alpacas at the Valle Country Fair on Saturday, October 17, located on Highway194 in Valle Crucis, across from Valle Crucis Episcopal Conference Center.

For more information about Apple Hill Farm, call (828) 963-1662 or visit www.applehillfarmnc.com/animals.htm

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Lee Rankin was recently named Woman in Agriculture at the Watauga County Farm City Celebration at the Blair Farm in Boone. She was introduced at the event as one who strives to bring attention to the agricultural side of the High Country through agritourism tours of her alpaca farm in Matney, strong involvement in the development of a farmer’s market and serving on local committees and boards. What sets Lee apart is her level of commitment and passion that goes into the projects she takes on.

You can find Lee at most local events, from parades to concerts, hauling a trailer full of llamas and alpacas, always eager to educate others about her animals and farm life in general. She runs her Apple Hill Farm with an impressive level of involvement and inspiration.”

Congratulations, Lee!

www.aawmag.com

OCTOBER 2009 43

Mom’s World| BY HEATHER JORDAN, CNM, MSN

Turn, Turn, Turn To everything – turn, turn, turn There is a season – turn, turn, turn And a time for every purpose under heaven - The Byrds, “Turn! Turn! Turn!”

Transition is something that I, as a midwife, ponder quite a lot.

In labor, a transition can be like a flash in the pan – contractions accelerating with barely time to breathe into the exclamation point of birth. Alternatively, it can sometimes come on gradually, as if someone has precisely measured out the moments, each slightly more intense than the last until suddenly you’ve arrived and you don’t even realize how you came to be there. Once our kids are there, I think the transitions keep coming, propelling us into new dimensions of our relationships.

My oldest son, Will, recently turned 11 and started sixth grade.

I am elated and apprehensive for him. His intellect and maturity continuously amaze me, but I must admit that I fear that his naiveté will leave him hurt and confused when he inevitably experiences the cruelty of adolescents and teens. I watch him struggle with frustrations in the midst of hormonal chaos, as his goals get both refined and lofty.

There are tears and anger in his reactions when a plan goes awry or he hasn’t accounted for external factors.

Meanwhile, I find myself coping with my own emotional chaos.

As I get older, I find that my patience with my children is not what it used to be, nor is my self-censorship. Particularly with my interaction with Will, there are moments when the antagonism pushes me to the breaking point. I lose my cool, he loses his, and we retreat to our corners – upset by the confrontation, but wanting the other person to know the merits of our thinking and the depths of our hurt or anger.

Our relationship has advanced beyond the “You’re just mean!” phase to one in which ultimately we both try to communicate our feelings, even if at times it requires backtracking and apologies. I take my son’s hand and slowly we navigate through this pathway of adolescence – where he has the ability to think and feel adult emotions in all their complexities, joys, and pain. He is somewhere between an academic in hot debate and the stomping feet of my two-year-old. He grows impatient with me to acknowledge his adult reasoning even if he doesn’t always embrace the responsibilities that go with it.

I, on the other hand, am shocked at the level of my frustration at times and try to recapture my maturity and grace in dealing with episodes where I feel underappreciated or as if a simple request for help around the house is likened to slave labor in a dungeon somewhere.

We butt heads, voice regrets, and forge onward, trying to not shed too 44 OCTOBER 2009

much blood in the process. I love him entirely and soul search for my compass to help us find our way.

And we are moving forward in our relationship, despite our clashes, in a way that ironically involves moving forward. When a friend suggested that we run in the Springmaid Splash, a race in Spruce Pine that raises money for a fund to help needy families with fuel, Will took on the challenge and said he wanted to train with me.

As with everything he does, he wanted to practice and do it well. We ran together around Linville to get ready for the race. During our runs, we would talk – uninterrupted by his younger siblings – and have a chance to be together, just he and I. The result has been a bridge into a new dimension in our relationship. We have something we share and a way to expend frustration if and when we find it. We ran the race, which takes you over hills and through fields, a river (four times), and lots of mud. It was tricky but we navigated the course perfectly and came out on the other side dirty, wet, but together. It was validating and gave me hope that we will make it through the other side of adolescence also – probably slightly scarred and dirty, but no less side by side.

Send comments or questions to Heather Jordan, Certified Nurse-Midwife, at the office of Charles E. Baker, MD at (828) 7377711 ext. 253 or e-mail her at landh@localnet.com.

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High Country Courtesies| BY Sharon carlton

Walking with a Friend Through Illness or Injury

“One can do without people, but one has need of a friend.”

– Chinese Wisdom Life changes quickly when a serious illness or injury strikes. Daily activities that we’ve taken for granted can be challenging, if not impossible. Managing doctor appointments, medications and information can be overwhelming. We may find ourselves reeling from the changes in our lives and the loss of our daily routines. At such times, friends can provide invaluable support. Their presence, encouragement and assistance can boost us past difficult days.

Friends remind us of our importance to others in our community; they are a link to happier memories.

Three precious friends who have been battling cancer shared a few suggestions on meaningful ways to support our friends:

First of all, stay in touch. Whether the friends are here or across the country, call, send notes, e-mail and visit (when possible) on a regular basis. Even when they don’t feel like talking, just hearing your voice on the answering machine can be a reminder of your concern for them.

“Friends have told me, ‘I wanted to call, but I didn’t want to disturb you,’” shared Margo. “When I don’t feel like talking, the answering machine can take the call, and I can listen to their message later.”

Cards and notes are tangible tokens of care that can be reread and enjoyed.

“I was encouraged by so many cards from people in the community, some of whom I did not know personally!” said Betty.

E-mail is an inexpensive way to communicate with your computer–savvy friends. Humorous or inspirational messages easily can be forwarded.

Call before visiting to confirm a good time for them to have a guest. You don’t have to bring anything; just be there. Relate to your friends as the persons that you have known rather than focusing on any symptoms, changed appearance or surroundings.

Be sensitive to their moods and physical limitations so that visits do not wear them out.

Listen. Allow them to talk about their feelings. Recognize and validate their right to feel that way. (“I understand. If I were in your situation, I think I would feel the same way…”)

You provide comfort by listening in an accepting way. If your friend does not feel like talking, offer to sit quietly together while they rest. Try to end your visit on a positive, optimistic note. Spend time with the individual to discern what they need. Get to know them as they are presently. Everyone handles illness or injury at his www.aawmag.com

or her own pace.

“Don’t judge other people, just love them,” offered Margo.

Be sensitive to their feelings of wanting to feel alive. By understanding what they can and cannot manage, you can avoid doing the chores that they can, or want, to do for themselves, allowing them to maintain their dignity and semblance of normality.

As you recognize their limitations, offer to assist them in ways that you can. Cooking a meal, cleaning a room, doing laundry, watching or carpooling children, walking their dog or caring for their pets, mowing their lawn or washing their car are suggestions.

Confirm any special dietary restrictions before taking food. Ask if they would like what you are planning to bring. Deliver food with the least amount of non-disposable containers requiring maintenance and return. Clearly mark containers you wish returned.

Offer to drive or accompany them to doctors’ appointments or treatments. Having a companion to scribe notes of the doctor’s instructions and answers to questions can be beneficial for later review. Your presence lends support.

Take them to lunch. Shop with (or for) them. A change of scenery can be a big morale boost.

Share great books, music or uplifting movies from your personal collection. (Mark them with your name if you would like them returned.)

Laughter is great medicine. Send jokes, humorous stories, and cards.

Pray. “The prayers of my family and friends have carried me through this last three years,” said Jackie. “There is power in prayer.”

“Knowing that people care and that they know me enough to pray for me helps me feel upheld,” shared Margo.

The human touch connects us to the rest of the world that continues when ours grinds to a halt due to illness or injury. Knowing that others care about us can be comforting and encouraging.

The efforts we expend to reach out to others provide much needed support, build our relationships stronger and inspire hope.

The reward for showing our loving concern for others is all ours.

Sharon Carlton, High Country Courtesies ©2009 Sharon Carlton conducts High Country Courtesies customer service workshops and is Director of High Country Cotillion, a social education program for youth. She writes and speaks on modern etiquette and life skill topics. Contact her at sacarlton@ skybest.com

OCTOBER 2009 45

YOU GO, GIRL!

46 OCTOBER 2009

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OCTOBER 2009 47

Cents and $ensibility|

BY corrinne loucks ASSAD

DEBIT =

DEBT + “I”

Recent changes have been made in the credit card industry that offer some protection for consumers. The Senate recently voted to rein in credit card rate increases and excessive fees, giving the banks nine months to conform. While there is no doubt that these laws will save us in the long run, one side effect to this increase in risk to credit card companies is that less credit is being made available to the consumer and at higher rates. In our fast paced world, which now demands instant purchasing power for items we can’t afford, where will we turn? To our DEBIT cards, of course!

First created as an Automated Teller Machine card, the banking industry’s primary selfish aim for the cards was to eliminate the need for bank tellers – and their wages.

In the 1980s, we gained access to cash quickly, at any time of day and without anyone seeing our balances. We could also make deposits, check our accounts and move money without waiting in lines. With such easy electronic access, it’s no surprise then that we began to lose our financial discipline, deeming it worth it to pay the associated bank fees for the privilege of using our own money.

Then one day we were issued a new and improved card with a little “Visa” (or similar) emblem in the bottom right corner. Did Visa buy our bank? Is Visa the company that printed the debit cards for our bank? We asked ourselves these questions and others like them for about two seconds before going right back to using the cards.

And not just to access cash.

We now swipe the card for anything from groceries to gas to a cup of coffee or a candy bar. It’s so convenient and it’s the same as cash, right? (Right?) In promoting our evolution to a cashless society, the banking industry has become the master of our nation’s payment system and is profiting on our purchases, perhaps even that Snickers bar. They’ve found a way to make up for the income lost through the new credit card reform and, while reaping the savings from the salaries of those unemployed tellers, they are now making billions from the fees we pay on debit card over usage.

Note that we are also losing our last shred of financial privacy in unthinkable ways.

Before that little symbol appeared in the bottom corner of our ATM card and before retailers asked, “Credit or debit?” when swiping our cards, our purchases wouldn’t go through if there were insufficient funds. Then banks realized, with direct deposit, they could allow you a negative balance, take it out of your next paycheck, and charge you an extra $35 for letting you overdraw!

That Snickers just cost you $36.00! Your debit card has now become a credit card, allowing you to buy when you have no money, thereby increasing your debt and their gain. Lovely. By the way, the IRS loves the personal records that are being kept by our 48 OCTOBER 2009

frantic use of debit cards. By reducing the nation’s undocumented flow of cash, it can now keep track of our spending, thereby improving their chances of collecting tax money.

More items to consider: In the past, we had 2 - 3 days to get the money in our account before being overdrawn. Our mistakes are now instantly penalized. When using a credit card, our liability for fraudulent charges is typically $50. With our new-fangled debit/credit card, we can be responsible for paying 100 percent of fraudulent use after 60 days. Read the small print when buying gift cards – some of them actually have an expiration date. Who knew your cash could expire? And now, banks are targeting their efforts toward the roughly 80 million people who actually don’t have bank or credit card accounts. Dallas Commercial Bank won the rights to issue debit cards to some 4 million social security recipients who don’t have accounts. Those millions are now receiving their checks in the form of prepaid debit cards! In addition, Visa and MasterCard are offering prepaid debit cards for companies to utilize as payment to employees!

Let’s face it. We knew financial institutions were in this to make a profit. Or, did we think they were just being nice by holding our money and paying us a little interest? Each of us is in some type of business for a profit. That’s what keeps the world turning. It’s certainly worth fees to have a neighborhood banker you know and trust to give you the best services for the best possible rates. So, should you still use your debit card for most purchases at the risk of overdraft and other charges? The answer can be as individual as we are. A good rule of thumb: If you can’t keep up with the rules, don’t play the game.

It’s time our regulatory systems take a look at the nation’s overall financial direction, reforming many areas for the protection of consumers like you and me. Now, what are the chances that those regulatory systems are not funded and driven by the banking industry?

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Young at Heart| BY Heather Young

“You look delicious,” I tell myself as I scrutinize my reflection in the bathroom mirror. “You smell delicious,” I continue. “You are the essence of deliciousness!”

I hope that if I keep repeating this mantra, eventually I will believe it at some level. Why am I going to such lengths, you may ask? Because I don’t feel very delicious today. I feel rotten!

All I really want to do is stay at home, mope around and wallow in the blahs that are threatening to make me completely useless. The rational part of my brain knows that this bad mood will pass, but to speed along the process, I am chanting to myself. Just as the “Little Engine That Could” made it up the hill by repeating, “I think I can, I think I can,” I hope my recitation will help me make it through the day.

Why delicious? I have tried on a few other choice words – fantastic, amazing, fabulous, but delicious seems most appropriate. “Fantastic” and “amazing” make me feel like I should be describing superheroes, reminding me of how unsuper I feel. As “fabulous” saunters through my thoughts, I snicker under my breath and say, “You’re fabulous, dahling,” in my best British accent, channeling Edina and Patsy from Absolutely Fabulous.

Delicious feels right, because it conveys appearance, feel, texture, aroma and taste, and it is often associated with one of my favorite things – food!

Whether or not I qualify as food-obsessed (and many of my friends would laugh and insist that I am), I will admit that I take great delight in exceptional culinary wonders. Some of my fondest memories are related to restaurants I have visited or meals I have created and consumed. I have been known to be perhaps a bit over-enthusiastic about what I consider to be a delectable meal. I am not trying to be pushy when I force my dinner companion to taste something on my plate, nor am I trying to be condescending when I interrupt and tell you what to order; I just believe life is too short to eat mediocre food.

Even though my life may revolve around food just a wee bit, I use delicious to describe so many more things – movies, books, shoes, handsome British men and, today, the frame of mind I am trying desperately to achieve.

I tear myself away from my reflection and dress carefully, not wanting to regress back to the blahs. “Maybe the cherry red shirt. Or, the chocolate skirt,” I think as I peruse my wardrobe choices. After selecting an outfit, I spritz on my favorite cinnamon perfume and drag myself to the kitchen to make my morning coffee.

50 OCTOBER 2009

As I wait for the strong, fragrant liquid to finish brewing, I continue to mentally prepare myself to confront the world.

Breathing deeply, I put on my happy face, like a mask I would wear on Halloween to change my persona, and hope it disguises my regrettable disposition. Giving the couch with its cozy throw one last longing long, I grudgingly walk out the door.

By the time I arrive at the office, my temper has improved.

With my mask securely in place, I greet my colleagues, who hopefully have not noticed that I am still muttering to myself and resisting the lingering urge to turn around and sprint through the door to home and hiding.

“Ugghh,” my office mate and good friend Alex says, “Are you wearing that cinnamon perfume again? You smell like cookies. I always have the urge to take a bite when you wear that stuff.”

He’s joking of course, because Alex knows that if he actually tried, I would be tempted to beat him senseless with my stiletto. But, the unpleasant visual aside, I am not altogether displeased at the thought of smelling like cookies. I feel the carefully constructed pretense slipping away, replaced by a genuine smile.

“Yes, I am wearing that cinnamon perfume,” I respond with a smirk, as I realize that things are looking up. “Isn’t it delicious?”

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Your Home|BY CORRINNE LOUCKS ASSAD

It’s Easy Being Green

There’s a buzz in the housing market about going “green” – green cabinets, green flooring, green power, even green water, but what does “green” really mean? The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) gives many tips on living green, building green or even going green later, and utilizes a voluntary rating system called Leadership in Environmental Energy and Design (LEED) to promote the design and construction of highperformance green homes.

A green home uses less energy, water and other natural resources than a typical home. It creates less waste, which results in less of a negative impact on the environment. It offers a cleaner way of life for its inhabitants as it produces reduced gas emissions and fewer problems with mold, mildew and indoor toxins.

A home can be built green or gradually can be transformed.

Going green in your home takes a commitment to family, community and the world in general. Green homes can also be more durable and less costly in the long run. According to the 2006 McGraw-Hill Construction Residential Green Building Report, green homes are expected to make up 10 percent of all new residential building in 2010, compared to 2 percent in 2005.

To purchase a new green home, look for LEED certification as an indication that the home has been third party inspected, performance tested and certified as a true green home. Some of the possibilities in a green home are: • Harnessing solar power to create electricity in your home • Saving water with low flow faucets and toilets or aerators.

• Planting native plants that will use less water, fertilizers or pesticides. Find out what these plants are from the Environmental Protection Agency’s “green landscaping” list.

• Using low or no volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) thereby improving your indoor air quality and overall health.

Look for low voc paints and cleaning products.

• Using wood alternatives or rapidly renewable products such as linoleum, bamboo, recycled content tile or non-voc carpet.

• Choosing wood sources from sustainably managed forests, such as eucalyptus and others. A list can be found through the Forest Stewardship Council.

• Using local products to reduce carbon emissions from the transportation of products.

• Surrounding your home with shade trees to save on heating and air conditioning.

• Plugging leaks with weather stripping or caulk.

There are lots of things to look for when considering purchasing a green home. The home must not be built on environmentally sensitive sites such as marshes, farmland or endangered species habitats. The home should be in a compact development where there are six or more homes per acre and should be within walking distance to public transportation, parks, schools and stores. Choose a smaller–sized home, 2000 square feet or less, that has been situated to bring in daylight – and take advantage of breezes. The exterior should have shading devices to block the hot summer sun. A green home will be built with non-toxic materials and furnishings, and salvaged or recycled materials. Non-toxic insulation such as those made of soybeans or cotton, with a high heat resistant factor, will be used. Appliances, windows and doors should have Energy Star ratings and the home should generate some of its own energy. Look for water efficient kitchen and baths and even a rainwater collection and storage area.

There are more than 70 Green Home projects across the United States, each with its own requirements. Those closest to our area are North Carolina Healthy Built Homes Program, Raleigh, NC (919) 513-0307, or Western North Carolina Green Building Council, Asheville, NC (828) 232-5080.

Great sources for more information on building or converting a green home, these are independent organizations and not affiliates with the USGBC. Look for LEED certification on any home project if you are concerned about the home meeting US Green Building Council’s guidelines.

Of course, there are many ways to conserve energy and contribute to our local environment and the world without having an entirely green house. Remembering to turn off computers, clean the dryer’s lint filter, and recycle are small ways we all can pitch in, save money and live healthier lifestyles!

For more information, visit www.greenhomeguide.org.

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OCTOBER 2009 51

Healthy Lady| BY BONNIE CHURCH, CNC, WELLNESS COACH

How Do You Like Them Apples?

Apples are the perfect snack. They are easy to pack, easy to eat – no sticky fingers. They also are guilt-free: low in fat, sodium and calories. Better yet, the old adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is increasingly supported by the latest scientific research. Unpeeled apples are full of fiber, Vitamins C and B and powerful antioxidants – the nutrients that slow down the aging process and protect against a host of degenerative diseases.

APPLES PROTECT AGAINST CANCER

Apples are among a handful of foods identified as having the capacity to reduce cancer risk – in particular cancers of the lung, colon and breast.

Cornell University researchers isolated compounds from apple peels that were shown to suppress the growth of cancer cells in the test tube.

APPLES PROTECT AGAINST CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Several women’s health studies, including the Nurses’ Health Study and The Iowa Women’s Health Study, have shown a link between apples and a reduced risk in cardiovascular disease and its related events – including heart attack, stroke or death.

Apples are loaded with pectin, which may help keep blood cholesterol levels in check. When apple pectin dissolves in water, it creates a gummy, gel-like substance that binds bile acids and draws cholesterol out of the bloodstream.

Apple pectin also encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.

Research published by scientists in Japan has shown that apple phytochemicals may have an emerging role in treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

HERE ARE SOME SIMPLE WAYS TO ENJOY RAW APPLES

The apple season is late August to late November. Out of season, apples are stored chilled for weeks, or even months before reaching the produce department in the supermarket. In season they’ll probably be just a week or two off the tree. Look for shiny apples without scars and bruises.

They should be very firm to the touch. At home, store in the fridge or a cool dry place. Enjoy them unpeeled and raw throughout the season. o Pack an apple in your purse. o Add chopped apples to your tossed salad. o Slice apples and enjoy them with a peanut butter spread o Quarter apples and top with a slice of Swiss cheese. o Make a Waldorf salad with diced apples, diced celery, raisins, and mayonnaise. o Dip apples in poppy seed dressing or another salad dressing of your choice. o Top sliced apples with a little bit of cinnamon and maple syrup o Add apples, blueberries and banana slices to plain, low fat yogurt.

APPLES IMPROVE LUNG HEALTH

Australian research in young adults found that eating whole apples is protective against asthma. Oxidative stress in asthma occurs through inflammation and exposure to environmental pollutants. The antioxidants in apples provide natural anti-inflammatory nutrients.

Additionally, in an animal study by the University of South Carolina, the antioxidant quercetin (found in high amounts in apples as well as onions and tea) was shown to boost the immune system and protect against the flu.

APPLES PROTECT AGAINST DIABETES

Eating apples has been associated with a reduced risk of type II diabetes. In fact, research conducted on 38,000 women revealed a 28 percent reduction of risk for type II diabetes by eating an apple a day. The soluble fiber is an apple slows the absorption of carbohydrates, keeping blood sugar levels on an even keel.

APPLES CONTRIBUTE TO WEIGHT LOSS

The blood sugar balancing effects of apples also helps to control fat storage. The fiber in apples contributes to increase satiety, which can take the edge off “the munchies.”

APPLES CONTRIBUTE TO COLON HEALTHE

Easy on the digestion, apples contain malic and tartaric acids that inhibit fermentation in the intestines. Their high fiber content adds bulk that aids the digestive process, making elimination natural and comfortable.

52 OCTOBER 2009

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OCTOBER: 1 Chick Corea in Concert, presented by ASU Performing Arts Series; 8 p.m. Farthing Auditorium, Rivers St., Boone. Call 800841-ARTS. 3 5th Annual High Country Toy Run to benefit area’s less fortunate children at Christmas. Motorcycle Ride and Classic/Antique Car Cruise-in at Boone Mall; registration: 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.; Policeescorted ride leaves promptly at 11:00 a.m. Silent auction, 50/50, Bandana’s Bar-B-Que and more! For info: 828-265-0950 or e-mail: beckyandkris@bellsouth.net Mountain Voices and Strings featuring The Sheets Family (Randy, Deborah Jean, and Kelly), Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 8 p.m.

Artisan Festival, Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church, Blowing Rock, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Silent auction, bake sale, BBQ luncheon; 80 percent of proceeds to benefit Hospitality House 20 percent to Presbyterian Women to distribute among other charities.

Call Mary Holstein for more information at (828) 295-4561.

29th Annual Hickory Ridge Homestead Apple Festival.

9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Horn in the West Dr., Boone. Call (828) 2642120.

3 - 4 Dark Mountain Challenge Endurance Festival. 9:00 a.m. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir, Wilkesboro. Paddling triathlon, duathalon, trail running, and kayak races. Proceeds benefit Western Youth Network serving youth in Watauga, Wilkes, Ashe, Avery, and Allegheny counties. Call (828) 264-5174.

3 - 4 Autumn at Oz. 11a.m. -5 p.m.

Oz at Emerald Mountain atop Beech Mountain. Fun, food and live music. Admission charged. Call (828) 387-9283.

4 Blowing Rock Concerts in the Park, 4 p.m. Memorial Park in Blowing Rock featuring Die Rhinelanders Oktoberfest Band. Free.

Call (828) 295-7851.

9 Woolly Worm Ball, 6:00 p.m. Beech Mountain Club. Dinner, dance & silent auction benefits non-profit/children’s organizations.

Call (828) 898-5605.

9 – Nov. 7 Art show, “Barn Quilts of the North Carolina Mountains: Two Distinct Visions,” featuring work of Ramona Lampell and Elliot Coatney; opens October 9 with reception 5 – 8 p.m.. Broomfields Gallery, 414 E. 2nd St, West Jefferson.

10 Todd New River Festival, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Free all-day family entertainment, local crafts, mountain music, food and fun.

Call (828) 262-0277 Festival of the Frescoes, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Holy Trinity Church.

Arts & crafts, bake sale, entertainment. Call (336) 982-3076.

Running of The Knob, 8:00 a.m. Starts at Watauga Library with first mile in beautiful downtown Boone before heading up The Knob.

Call (828) 355-5821. www.aawmag.com

10 - 11 Oktoberfest, Sugar Mountain Resort. Traditional Oktoberfest featuring German music, food, & beverages; children’s activities, local & regional crafts, lift rides and more. Call (800) 7842768.

17 31st Annual Valle Crucis Country Fair, 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. Next to Church of the Holy Cross, on NC Hwy. 194. Free admission. $5 parking. Crafts, barbecue, Brunswick stew, music, homemade apple butter, jams, jellies, fresh cider and more Call (828) 963-4609 for details.

Woolly Worm Woad Wace, 10:00 a.m., from Avery High School through Newland across Hickory Nut Gap to Banner Elk. Awards for top male and female runner and top three finishers in each division.

Call (828) 898-5605.

Appalachian Craft Day, 7 a.m. – noon, Horn in the West parking lot, Boone. Local craft demonstrations including spinning and weaving by the Blue Ridge Fiber Guild. Call (828) 297-1914.

17-18 32nd Annual Woolly Worm Festival, Banner Elk, Woolly Worms race for prize money and public acclaim. The champion is examined by festival forecasters to determine “official” forecast for winter. Food, crafts, fun for everyone! Call (800) 972-2183.

22 ASU Performing Arts Series presents Martha Graham Dance Company, 8 p.m. Farthing Auditorium, Rivers St., Boone. Call 800841-ARTS 22-24, 28-31 Haunted Horn Ghost Trail (begins at dark.)

Horn in the West, Boone (Dates subject to change with any ASU Football Playoff schedule - please call.)

Call (828) 264-2120.

31 Blowing Rock Halloween Festival Downtown Blowing Rock. Fun & games, plus the Monster March! Call (828) 295-5222.

OCTOBER 2009 53

Photo by Mark Mitchell

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OCTOBER 2009 55