Page 2 • Mountain Times Publications
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
The communities of Ashe County STAFF REPORT Known as the “Coolest Corner of North Carolina,” Ashe County is comprised of unique communities spread throughout the region. The county, which was formed in 1799, was originally park of neighboring Wilkes County. Ashe County takes its name from Samuel Ashe, governor of North Carolina from 1795 to 1798. Jefferson, the county seat, was founded in 1803 and named for President Thomas Jefferson, as was the mountain that overlooks the area. Today, the county is an excellent location for outdoor PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE PHOTO SUBMITTED activities such as hiking, Ginger Yancey (right) and Rachel Conerly from Lansing offer their applause during a perforThe Museum of Ashe County History is housed in the historic fishing, floating and canoeing mance by Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road. 1904 Ashe County Courthouse located on 301 East Main St., on the historic New River. Jefferson.
CRESTON Scenic, rural Creston is home to some of the most attractive sights on the sides of its winding, mountainous roads. Bordering Tennessee, Creston is home to the Riverview Community Center, located off N.C. 88 West. The community-focused center is home to events and festivals throughout the year. Also, Worth’s Chapel, listed as a National Historic Building in 2005, was built in 1902 and is located at Creston United Methodist Church. The interior of the chapel is partly finished with American chestnut wood, harvested before the blight reached the mountains of North Carolina, causing the tree to be nearly extinct in the region today.
FLEETWOOD Between Deep Gap and West Jefferson, Fleetwood is a rural community with
strong bonds. Community gatherings convene at the Fleetwood Community Center and also the Fleetwood Volunteer Fire Department. On your way to and from the busy towns of Boone and West Jefferson, stop by to look at local crafts, antiques and civic pride in Fleetwood.
GLENDALE SPRINGS This community has become a must for visitors to Ashe County. Close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, which adds to its outdoor beauty, this scenic area has become must-see during the summer and fall seasons. Glendale Springs is also home to the well-known fresco painting by Ben Long. The painting, located at Holy Trinity Episcopalian Church, has helped Glendale Springs become revered for its growing arts community.
GRASSY CREEK Just south of the North
Carolina-Virginia border, this tightly knit community features a multitude of Christmas tree farms and many smiling faces. The New River also flows through Grassy Creek, and whose beautiful sights you can enjoy while enjoying a delectable dinner from the River House Inn and Restaurant.
JEFFERSON The county seat of Ashe, Jefferson was established in 1799. Founded prior to West Jefferson, the town was first known as Jeffersonton. It would be known simply as Jefferson, becoming one of the first towns in the United States to bear the name of founding father Thomas Jefferson. The town features the Museum of Ashe County History, which was originally the county’s courthouse. The museum has collected a plethora of items from the
county’s past and is open to the public Monday through Saturday. It offers a look at who the citizens of the county are, where they came from, how they got to the town and where they went next. Ashe’s government is still based in Jefferson, with the new courthouse, Ashe County Sheriff’s Office and N.C. Extension Ashe office all being in the town’s limits. Ashe County Park and Foster Tyson Park are also located in Jefferson, the former of which hosts a nationally celebrated disc golf course.
LANSING One of Ashe County’s hidden gems, Lansing is a town rich with tradition, kindness and beauty. Almost a neighborhood as much as it is a town, Lansing is the kind of town where everyone knows your name and offers you a drink, and is a warm and welcoming community tucked away in the moun-
tains in the northwest of Ashe County. Located roughly 20 minutes from Jefferson and West Jefferson, the community in the corner of the county is less than an hour away from Mountain City, Tenn., and Abingdon, Va. Lansing is a traditional one-stoplight town, starting out in the 1800s as a rural community of farms and a mountain village, before a post office and a railroad connected it to the rest of the county, according to www. lansingnc.com. The Creeper Trail Park and the Creeper Biking Trail make Lansing a destination for anyone in Ashe County who loves the outdoors.
LAUREL SPRINGS Small-town charm mixed with the Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounded by adventure, Laurel Springs takes a lot of pride in its location and style. Whether you want
to just stop in for lunch, to stretch your legs or lay down roots, Laurel Springs has what you need. Touching Wilkes, Alleghany and Ashe Counties, Laurel Springs is no more than 30-minutes away from each county’s seat.
TODD Built on the Virginia Creeper railroad, Todd went from the last stop on the line to a gem of a small town in both Ashe and Watauga counties. The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods, while also hosting monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The general store, founded more than 100 years ago, is the community’s most famous landmark. SEE COMMUNITIES ON PAGE 3
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
COMMUNITIES
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN WARRENSVILLE
Warrensville is a small, unincorpoCONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 rated community located at the intersection of North Carolina Highways The community’s main drag, 88 and 194 in Ashe County. A peaceful Railroad Grade Road, is a popular rural community, Warrensville is spot with bicyclists as it winds along home to both Blue Ridge Elementary with the New River. The river itself and Ashe County Middle School. Warprovides plenty to do, from canoeing rensville lies at an elevation of 2,707 and kayaking to excellent fishing for all feet and is only about three miles away four seasons. from the town of Lansing. Several companies, including RiverGirl Fishing Company and WEST JEFFERSON Art, good food, friendly locals, Wahoo’s Adventures, have outposts Christmas trees and milk tanks paintnear Todd to provide gear and ed to look like cows — West Jefferson instruction for anyone interested in has it all. As one of the premiere hitting the river. destinations in the High Country, For more information, visit www. West Jefferson has built a reputation toddnc.org. for having enough for everyone to have a good time. PARKER Located not far from the Tennessee A hallmark of West Jefferson for state line, Parker is a unincorporated more than 20 years, the murals and community in Ashe County which is galleries that fill West Jefferson are a located along NC Highway 88. The big part of the town’s culture. Curating community lies at an elevation of 3,136 it all is the Ashe Arts Council, which feet and plays host to several small celebrated 40 years in 2018. Headfarms. quartered at the Ashe Arts Center just
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off of East Main Street, the Ashe Arts Council has helped introduce numerous art projects that can be found all over West Jefferson. At the Ashe County Cheese plant, one of the most popular stops in West Jefferson, visitors can see cheese being made and then go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese store to purchase a variety of cheeses, old-fashioned snacks and candies, fudge and locally made wine. The cheese plant is open year-round and located at 106 E. Main St. in West Jefferson. For more information, visit www.ashecountycheese.com. West Jefferson is filled with restaurants that have the perfect food for whatever you’re in the mood for, and bars for after dinner. Lining North Jefferson Avenue, the hard part is deciding. For more information, visit www. visitwestjefferson.org, or just stop in the office of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce, located on the intersection of West Main Street and North Jefferson Avenue.
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Welcome to Ashe County Welcome to Ashe County, the coolest corner of North Carolina! Whether a longtime local, a new resident of Ashe or an explorer looking to make the most of a visit to the area, our Ashe County Chamber Kitty Honeycutt of Commerce and Visitor Center is the perfect place to gather information and ideas to enhance your stay. Ashe County’s location in the northwestern corner of North Carolina and its average elevation of 3,000 feet
justify the name “the coolest corner of North Carolina,” but there is so much more that contributes to this: our beautiful scenery, our rich heritage rooted in arts and music, our vibrant small towns and our kind and generous people. We invite you to enjoy a virtual tour of Ashe County at TheCoolestCorner.com and visit our Event Calendar at AsheChamber.com to link to the many exciting local events. On behalf of the Chamber, welcome to Ashe County! We’re so glad you’re here! Kitty Honeycutt Executive Director, Ashe County Chamber of Commerce
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Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Important numbers and websites West Jefferson Town Hall — (336) 246-3551, www.townofwjnc.com. West Jefferson Police Dept.— (336) 246-9410, www. townofwjnc.com. Ashe County Sheriff’s Office — (336) 846-5633, www. ashecountysheriff.com. Ashe County Communications Center — (336) 8465600, www.ashecountysheriff. com. Ashe County Detention Center — (336) 846-5611, www. ashecountysheriff.com. West Jefferson Post Office — (336) 246-2601, www.usps. com. Ashe Memorial Hospital — (336) 846-7101, www.ashememorial.org. Ashe County Health Dept. — (336) 246-9449, www.apphealth.com. Mountain Family Care Ctr.— (336) 846-6322, www. ashememorial.org. Ashe County Schools — (336) 246-7175, www.asheschools.org. Ashe County High School — (336) 846-2400, www.asheschools.org/achs. Ashe County Middle School — (336) 384-3591, www.asheschools.org/acms. Blue Ridge Elementary School — (336) 384-4500, www.asheschools.org/bres. Mountain View Elementary School — (336) 9824200, www.asheschools.org/ mves. Westwood Elementary School — (336) 877-2921, www.asheschools.org/wwes Ashe County Early Learning Ctr. — (336) 846-3221, www.asheschools.org/elc Ashe Early College — (336) 846-1881, https://nc02200844.schoolwires.net/domain/1723 Wilkes Community Col-
lege, Ashe Campus — (336) 846-3900, www.wilkescc.edu/ about-us/locations/ashe-campus/. Ashe County Parks and Recreation — (336) 982-6185, www.asheparks.com. Ashe County Public Library — (336) 846-2041, www. arlibrary.org/ashe. Ashe County Animal Control — (336) 982-4060, www. asheanimals.com. Ashe County Humane Society — (336) 982-4297, www. ashehumanesociety.org. Animal Hospital of Ashe — (336) 246-3441, www.animalhospitalofashe.com. Ashe Animal Clinic — (336) 246-2341. Ashe Arts Council — (336) 846-2787, www.ashecountyarts. org. Ashe Post & Times — (336) 246-6397, www.ashepostandtimes.com. Watauga Democrat — (828) 264-6397, www.wataugademocrat.com. Ashe Chamber of Commerce — (888) 343-2743, www. ashechamber.com. Blue Ridge Electric — (336) 846-7138, www.blueridgeemc. com. SkyLine Telephone — (336) 877-1350, www.skyline.org. CenturyLink — (336) 2460100, centurylink.com. Ashe County Board of Elections — (336) 846-5570, www. ashecountygov.com/departments/board-of-elections. Emergency Management — (336) 846-5521, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/emergency-management. Ashe County Planning Board — (336) 846-5528, www. ashecountygov.com/departments/planning. Ashe Register of Deeds — (336) 846-5580, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/
register-of-deeds. Ashe Dept. of Social Services — (336) 846-5719, www. ashecountygov.com/departments/social-services. Ashe County Environmental Services — (336) 846-3721, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/environmental-services. Ashe County Landfill — (336) 982-2527, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/ environmental-services. Ashe Tax Collector — (336) 846-5577, www.ashecountygov. com/departments/tax-administration. Ashe County Tax Administration — (336) 846-5577, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/tax-administration. Ashe County Tax Mapping — (336) 846-5555, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/ tax-administration. E911 Address Coordinator — (336) 846-5520, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/ e911-addressing Ashe County Transportation Authority — (336) 8462000, www.actatravels.com. Ashe County Veterans Services — (336) 846-5575, www. ashecountygov.com/departments/veterans-services. Ashe County Building Inspections — (336) 846-5511, www.ashecountygov.com/departments/building-inspections. N.C. Cooperative Extension — (336) 846-5850, ashe. ces.ncsu.edu. Jefferson Town Hall — (336) 846-9368, townofjefferson.org. Jefferson Police Department — (336) 846-5529, townofjefferson.org. Lansing Town Hall — (336) 384-3938, lansingnc.us. Todd Community Preservation Organization — (828) 263-6173, toddnc.org.
PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
The Parkway Theater is located at 10 E Main St, West Jefferson, just across from the Ashe Post & Times.
Visual entertainment in Ashe County BY CHANDA RICHARDSON With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, movie goers had to resort to the comfort of their couches to catch up with the newest releases. However, Ashe has seen re-openings of both movie services, the Parkway Theater and the Blue Ridge Movie Lounge. And, for live action, the Ashe County Little Theatre has been the home for community theater since the 1970s.
Parkway Theater Opened in 1947, the Parkway Theater is a staple of Ashe County and West Jefferson. Since 1984, the theater has been run by the husband and wife duo of Tony and Sharon Eldreth, whose family have all helped out at some point or another. The Parkway is located at 10 E Main St, West Jefferson. Their doors re-opened in the summer of 2021, issuing safe protocols to ensure a healthy movie watching experience. Two theater rooms were originally one, and have a concave floor to create clean views for all in attendance. The theater only accepts cash or checks, but at a low ticket price of $6, or $5 for Saturday and Sunday matinees. All of your movie cravings such as popcorn, candy and drinks can be offered for prices between $2-$6. For more information, go to www.parkwaytheater.net or
call (336) 846-3281.
Blue Ridge Movie Lounge The Blue Ridge Movie Lounge in West Jefferson is the newest movie theater on the block. Ditching the traditional aesthetic of theater seats and popcorn, the BRML uses recliners and couches for an at-home vibe. Visitors can also grab a glass of wine or hard cider for an extra level of comfort. Family-owned and operated since its opening in 2018, the BRML is all about keeping it small and accessible to those who visit it. For more information, go to www.blueridgemovielounge. com or call (828) 263-6255.
Ashe County Little Theatre
Ashe County Little Theatre has been the home of community theater in Ashe since 1972. The group promotes community involvement in the arts and high-quality performance, without the high ticket prices. With a revolving cast of volunteers, producers, directors and actors, there’s always something unique about each production. As of press time, there has been no information regarding the re-opening of the 2021 season, but to be on the lookout, visit www.ashecountylittletheatre. org or call (336) 846-2787.
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Mountain Times Publications • Page 5
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
4th GENERATION FAMILY OWNED CELEBRATING OUR 61TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY SERVING THE HIGH COUNTRY
Sexton Farms is a 4th generation family owned and operated farm that was established in 1960. We are located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Northwestern North Carolina, and Southwestern Virginia which has the ideal climate for growing Fraser fir Christmas trees as well as a full line of autumn products ranging from pumpkins to ornamental gourds. Byron Sexton, considered a pioneer in the Fraser fir Christmas tree industry, was known for his creative thoughts and eccentric ideas. In 1960, after observing trees in the wild being cut and taken home for a fresh, aromatic Christmas tree, he decided to take a chance on setting Fraser fir trees hoping a market could be developed to underwrite a sustainable business. The story goes... upon talking to a local agriculture extension agent regarding his idea to set out Fraser fir Christmas trees, the recommended suggestion was to try "one acre" just to see how it goes. He informed them that he just set eighty acres and was taking a chance that the Fraser fir Christmas tree just might have a really bright future! Byron Sexton was making his living as a tobacco farmer while taking a chance on the Fraser fir. He needed a partner to help with expenses being incurred. Who's better able to be your partner than your own son? Now its a Family Tradition.
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Page 6 • Mountain Times Publications
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY NONPROFITS
FILE PHOTO
People canoe on a section of the New River in Ashe County.
Giving back to the community: Ashe County nonprofits BY ANDREW COLE Whether it’s an organization fighting local hunger, or devoting their time to looking after our natural resources, Ashe County has a number of great nonprofits willing to give back to the community. Perhaps one of Ashe County’s most notable nonprofits is the New River Conservancy. No doubt, one of Ashe County’s most treasured natural gems is the New River, whose north and south flow more than 100 miles through forested mountains and pastoral valleys, eventually joining a few miles south of the North Carolina-Virginia line before continuing into Virginia and West Virginia and into the Kanawha and Ohio rivers. In Ashe County, the New River is a prime location for water sports such as fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking and tubing. But, keeping the historic waterway clean and pristine takes a lot of effort from conservation groups such as NCR and their scores of volunteers. “The mission is protecting the wetland, wood lands and wildlife of the watershed,” said Elizabeth Underwood, executive director of the New River Conservancy.
“Our mission is so important, we’re making difference, we’re making the river and the watershed better. It’s drinking water, it’s recreation water, it’s the core essence of which every life form needs to survive. What can be greater than that?” The nonprofit is responsible for a number of different conservation efforts along the waterway, including organizing volunteer clean up days, funding conservation easements, and monitoring water quality through their water watchers program. Currently, the New River Conservancy has around 41 conservation easements in the watershed region, and in 2021 alone has pulled around 14,200 pounds of trash from the river with the help of their volunteers. Since 2001 the organization has pulled more than 390,000 pounds of trash out of the New River. “There’s been folks advocating, and donating, and aiding in many different way for almost 50 years now and that’s just incredible,” Underwood said. “But the fight’s not over, there’s still work to be done.” Other local nonprofits located
in Ashe County include Badges of Ashe, which was established to lend support to law enforcement officers, staff, and their families of Ashe County, as well as the Ashe County Food Pantry which is the county’s leading food pantry. Aside from keeping the food pantry itself stocked with goods, the Ashe Food Pantry offers delivery programs such as its “Operation Backpack” program which puts healthy, child-appropriate food in the neediest little hands. Throughout the school year, large family-sized portions of canned & dried food staples, frozen meat, eggs and more are delivered to families in need. During the school year, healthy backpacks go home through the school each week through our partnership with Ashe County Middle School, Mountain View Elementary, Westwood Elementary and the Nest Alliance, insuring that the children always have food to eat. To learn more about local nonprofits such as the New River Conservancy, Badges of Ashe and the Ashe County Food Pantry, visit ashefoodpantry.org/, badgesofashe.com/ and www. newriverconservancy.org/.
New River Conservancy 1 N Avenue (suite D), West Jefferson NC 28694 (336) 846-6267 www.newriverconservancy.org/ A group dedicated to protecting the waters, woodlands and wildlife of the New River Watershed. Ashe County Humane Society 1175 Old Hwy 16, Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-4297 Works to promote the welfare of companion animals in the community through programs and strategies that are aimed at improving responsible pet ownership and reducing the pet population. Keep Ashe Beautiful www.keepashebeautiful.org (336) 846-9550 An all-volunteer 501c3 nonprofit organization and local affiliate of Keep America Beautiful that provides education and opportunities aimed at enhancing Ashe County’s quality of life and community pride through improving attitudes and behaviors regarding natural resource conservation, solid waste handling, recycling and beautification. Ashe County Rescue Squad Inc. A volunteer rescue squad on a mission to help the people of Ashe and surrounding counties by providing rescue and EMS services. 300 Mt Jefferson Rd, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-6010 Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary Inc. A non-profit equine rehabilitation sanctuary providing a safe, secure home for abandoned, neglected, abused, retired or unwanted horses. P.O. Box 111 Glendale Springs, NC 28629 (336) 977-8966 Ashe County Habitat for Humanity A non-profit organization that works in partnership with the people of Ashe County to eliminate substandard housing by building safe, affordable, decent housing for families in need. 127 Beaver Creek School Rd, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-2525 Ashe County New Beginnings Inc. Local non-profit servicing the needs of Foster and In Crisis children. P.O. Box 381, West Jefferson, NC 28694. (336) 846-4518 Ashe County Partnership for Children 113 Partnership Drive, Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-4588 Founded in 1995 to administer the Smart Start grant in Ashe County. Since that time the organization has expanded to include a domestic violence and sexual assault prevention and awareness program. They have also enhanced our family support programs to offer more support to families with children. Ashe County Food Pantry 115 Colvard St, Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-7019 For more than a decade the Ashe Food Pantry’s focus has been to feed our community. The organization is leading the fight to end hunger in our community by acquiring and distributing food to those who seek aid. Badges of Ashe (336) 977-1275 Badges of Ashe was established to lend support to law enforcement officers, staff, and their families of Ashe County. Summit Support Services of Ashe (336) 982-8851 401 E Main St, Jefferson, NC 28640 Summit Support Services is a private, non-profit corporation formed in 1977 as ‘Ashe County Group Homes’ to provide residential services to adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities in a group home setting.
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Mountain Times Publications • Page 7
Public Services in Ashe County BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Lending a hand in Ashe County has been seen as at top priority since the beginning. Public Services have become a staple in resources available to locals and tourists. Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina, a nonprofit organization, has been serving communities since 1926. Ashe’s Goodwill location offers reasonable thrifting of clothing, furniture, home goods and more. Goodwill is located at 1291 Mt. Jefferson Road in West Jefferson and can be contacted at (336) 219-0244. They also offer jobs to those in need. The Ashe County
Chamber of Commerce offers all local and tourist needs when living in or visiting the High Country. It is located in downtown West Jefferson at 1 N Jefferson Avenue, Suite C. The staff at the chamber are there to help with all needs in buying houses, boarding, county mapping, souvenir shopping, local businesses and more. Visit the “Coolest Corner” of Ashe County today or call (888) 343-2743 for more information. Reading and writing is essential to students and adults of all ages and the Ashe County Public Library has continued to offer services since opening as well as special events. Visit www.arlibrary.org/ ashe to check out their inven-
tory and upcoming events. The Ashe County Courthouse at 150 Government Circle in Jefferson houses most of the county’s DSS services, as well as local administrative officers, the county board of elections, register of deeds, tax administration, economic development, planning and emergency management, as well as the Ashe County Jail and dispatch. To report problems or voice concerns about the county’s more than 800 miles of publicly maintained roads, the Ashe County NCDOT maintenance yard can be contacted at (336) 2465287. Ashe County Cooperative Extension is available to assist people with farming and other agricultural endeavors. The farm services
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building is located beside the law enforcement center. The Ashe County Sheriff’s Office and county detention center are also located at Government Circle in Jefferson, providing for the safety needs of the community. Ashe County Environmental Services operates convenience centers around the county, plus a landfill for county residents and property renters to appropriately and safely dispose of trash. Convenience centers are located throughout the county serving the communities of Bina, Lansing, Jefferson, West Jefferson, Crumpler and Creston. A new convenience center
PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
The Ashe County Farmers Market includes a variety of SEE SERVICES ON PAGE 8 vendors in the spring and fall months.
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SERVICES
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
regarding the local school system. For animal lovers, Ashe County HuCONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 mane Society is located at 1175 Old has been also been opened for Ashe Highway 16 north of Jefferson. For Ashe County located on N.C. 163 across from County Animal Control, call (336) 982Blue Ridge Energy to serve people living 4060. Happy Tails can also be assessed in that area. Prior to the pursuing of this for animal needs offering adoptions, new site by the county, homeowners had grooming services and thrifting. Happy to travel to the Baldwin site. Tails is located at 431 E 2nd St, West SkyLine SkyBest offers fiber-optic Jefferson. internet capabilities across most of Ashe Anyone interested in the area’s extenCounty, for technology needs for both sive history can visit the Museum of locals and new homeowners. A numAshe County History located at 301 ber of local realtors can be accessed by E Main St. in Jefferson. The old courtcontacting the Ashe County Chamber of house, which was constructed in 1904, Commerce. was added to the National Register of The Ashe County Farmers Historic Places in 1979. Market is open on Backstreet in West To keep up with the latest news in Jefferson every Saturday during spring Ashe County, Ashe Post & Times is and fall, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. with a great source. Published weekly on special holiday market dates announced Wednesdays as well as daily online, annually. All of your local home-grown the single paper in Ashe has become products can be found by visiting the a staple for your news and entertaininfamous market. ment. Drop a news tip to the staff, subAshe County Schools is headscribe or just visit with the news and quartered at 320 South St. in Jefferson, sales staff at 7 E Main St. in downtown and can be contacted by phone at (336) West Jefferson, or call (336) 846-2041 246-7175 for questions and information for more information.
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Ashe County, the spot for new business to thrive BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Ashe County has become a breeding ground for new businesses of all kinds, expanding the county’s economy and appeal. As proof, note that nearly two dozen new or relocated PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON businesses opened during the The Spice & Tea Exchange offers a variety of tools, kitchen past year. The following is a list of local utensils, books and goodies. businesses that have opened • Nature’s Lights Candles • A Designer’s Touch between August 2020 and • The Spice & Tea Ex• Old Orchard Creek GenAugust 2021, according to change eral Store the Ashe County Chamber of • Naked Creek Farmacy • Cindy Randolph, CPA Commerce. • Fleetwood Family Med• Bluebird Pediatric • Burger’s Yall icine • Jason Sutherland, advisor • Mia’s Mark • Unseen Pass at Edward Jones • Salvation Army • NC Sassenach Tours • Badges of Ashe • Mamaw B’s Mountain • Bull’s • Ashe County Fire & ResCrafts • The Foundry cue training facility • The Tavern • Pretty and Pearls Wed• NC 163 Convenience • Enviro-shred ding Boutique Center
We have the scoop on the Local Real Estate Market and the Professional insight to be able to answer all your questions. Call Us to see how we can help! We can even connect you with a lending professional in our business network!
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Mountain Times Publications • Page 9
TOGETHER, WE’RE STRONGER As a Blue Ridge Energy member, you have a powerful connection with your utility. That’s because you are much more than a customer. You’re a member-owner of an electric cooperative formed and governed by local people. As a member, you elect the Board of Directors, with one member, one vote. You also receive capital credits — money back to you, those who use our services. You have access to innovative services, energy-efficiency resources and reliable power. You receive electricity at your home
or business, thanks to a dedicated team of employees who work to keep rates as low as possible. Your cooperative also partners with the locall community to attract new business, support healthcare and education and improve the quality of life in the area.
Blue Ridge Energy and the members we serve. Together, we’re stronger.
Page 10 • Mountain Times Publications
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Ashe County’s hub for entertainment BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Ashe County has been a hub for entertainment over the years, especially now with the bustling onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you’re looking for a good hike or picnic spot, a place to eat popcorn while watching a good film, a way to fulfill your wildest dreams of becoming the best karaoke singer or a place to browse breathtaking works of art, Ashe County is your spot. When visiting or living in Ashe County, the marvelous landscapes that grace the wide outdoors are not hard to miss. Ashe is located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and features a variety of outdoor activities and sightseeing. New River State Park The four access points that New River State Park provides, all free, are just the beginning of the endless activities you can partake in. Local canoe, kayak and tube rental services can be found all cross the county, such as Zaloo’s Canoes in Glendale Springs where you can grab your family and friends and set off on a smooth ride through the county. Access points can be found throughout the county along with Lansing, Jefferson, Laurel Springs and more. The river winds about 360 miles and hits West Virginia, Virginia and North Carolina. The park itself offers on-site RV camping, canoe-camping, a range of
tunity to get out and enjoy nature through a walking trail and seasonal fishing. The park has five fire pits for summer bonfires, three grills for all of your BBQ needs and a newly renovated barn for a number of uses such as the FDR Dinner, weddings and more.
Downtown West Jefferson The heart of Ashe County, downtown West Jefferson has become a staple in the county, now home to tourists and locals. With the wide range of shops, including Bull’s, Mountain PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Outfitters, The Spice & Rob McCormac, Jacob Smith, Liam Purcell and Colton Kerchner rocked the Blevins Stage in the first concert of the Fridays in Tea Exchange, the Vintage the Park series on May 21. Locket and more. The Ashe County Arts They offer rental equipyears, it had been occupied Council holds a gallery picnic shelters and more. Brew Haus at Boondocks Brewing ment for various activicrawl on the second Friday as the annual 4th of July For more information, Looking for a fun night ties, athletics for all ages of each month between fireworks show but has visit www.ncparks.gov/ of karaoke, endless snacks including soccer, volleyJune and October, offering since been moved to West new-river-state-park/ and flavorful drinks? The ball, basketball, softball, both locals and tourists to Jefferson just above the home. Brew Haus, located at 302 baseball, pickle-ball and take a walk downtown to Civic Center. You can also Mount Jefferson State S Jefferson Ave, West Jef- more and they give the op- enjoy licensed fishing in take in the breathtaking Natural Area ferson is the spot to be. portunity to enjoy the vast the pond. art in galleries and murals. Mount Jefferson lies Opening in 2014 mainly outdoors that Ashe County They also have backstreet West Jefferson Park, also right in the heart of Ashe as a brewing station, the provides. concerts in the summer known as the Bowie-SeaCounty, rising about 1,600 Brew Haus has expanded To learn more, visit months as well as specials graves Municipal Park, is feet in the air and casts for open dining and night www.asheparks.com or later on in the year. located in downtown. With a shadow across some of of fun with family and call the office at (336) 982- two large picnic shelters, a Movie lovers can relax at the High Country’s most friends. 6185. number of playgrounds and either the Parkway Theater beautiful lands, Jefferson To check out their menu swings as well as two tennis or the Blue Ridge Movie Ashe County Parks and West Jefferson. The and services, visit www. Lounge with popcorn and courts and a basketball Ashe Park is located in park offers five hiking trails boondocksbeer.com. sweets of all kinds. court, West Jefferson park Jefferson and goes hand which allow the exploraThe farmer’s market is your spot for all things out Ashe County Parks in hand with Parks and tion of nature. including a offers a wide variety of doors. There is a walking and Recreation Recreation. It is home to child-friendly trail. clothing, knick-knacks and trail where you can take Ashe County Parks and the High Country Disc Take a breath at one your dog for a stroll and it is more on the Saturday of Recreation, located at 626 Golf Course, established in located just beside the Ashe each month from spring of the parks lookouts 2006 and offers a course where you can see the vast Ashe Central School Rd County Public Library where to fall. Unit 16 in Jefferson, offers length of 6,992 feet. It also you can rent a book and enmountain ranges of North For more entertainment a handful of activities and is home to the Fridays in Carolina. opportunities, pick up a joy the breeze while diving opportunities to get yourthe Park concert series For further information, copy of the Ashe Post & into your favorite story. self and children out and put on by the Ashe County visit www.ncparks.gov/ The Lansing Creeper Trail Times or Mountain Times Arts Council, the Fiddler’s mount-jefferson-state-nat- about in sporting leagues, to see what’s happening in park in downtown Lansing fitness centers and more. Fest and more. In previous provides the ideal opporural-area. the county.
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Ashe County restaurants COMPILED BY ANDREW COLE From fresh pasta to mouth watering cheese burgers, pizza, BBQ, Cuban food and country cooking, Ashe County has a variety of places to choose from when it comes to getting a bite to eat. Finding quality, family-owned restaurants to dine at is as easy as walking down the street. To make things even better, as the region grows, new eateries continue to spring up around the county. One of the newest eateries is a recently opened pasta restaurant ran by longtime restaurateur Tony Bellanca, owner of local favorite Havana Cafe. Bellanca’s new restaurant, called Pasta Fresh, puts emphasis on efficiency while also using quality ingredients such as sausage from local butchers the Ramblin’ Poppy, Carolina Romano cheese from Ashe County Cheese and handmade pastas from Foggy Mountain Pasta. From the takeout window, guests can create their own dish by selecting their choice of pasta noodles, different sauces ranging from Sunday gravy, bolognese and Carolina romano cream sauce, and meats such as shredded garlic chicken and Grandma’s meatballs. Also opened within the last year has been Slice WJ, a pizza restaurant started with the goal of bringing New York-style pizza to downtown West Jefferson. Aside from offering full pizzas or the by-the-slice
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Guests can swing by New River Brewing to try their new ‘Take Me to the River’ prohibition lager. A dollar from each pint will be donated to the New River Conservancy. options, the restaurant also offers a wide variety soups, sandwiches and appetizers, enough to keep any visitor happy. Also nestled in the heart of downtown West Jefferson, is Burgers Y’all, which was established in 2000. The restaurant offers a variety of gourmet burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and sides such as sweet potato fries and tater tots. Burgers Y’all is also a great place to grab something sweet, as the restaurant offers a rotating selection of ice cream flavors, milkshakes and floats. For those interested in the craft beer scene, Ashe County is also home to local breweries such as Boondocks Brewing,
as well as New River Brewing, which recently expanded its business with the opening of a new taproom in June of 2021. Currently the brewing operation, which is running on a three-barrel system. is producing around 100-gallon of beer in a single batch. Going forward, the business hopes to use the new space to triple the amount of beer that they were producing at their previous location. Offering a wide selection cuisine to choose from as well as multiple locations for outdoor dining, Ashe County makes for the perfect place to enjoy an meal while taking in the surrounding views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Page 12 • Mountain Times Publications
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ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
The Coolest Corner of NC, brought to you by the Ashe County Chamber ored to have Scythian be the first opener,” said HoneyThe home for local busicutt. “We’ve asked the board nesses and visitor services of commissioners to secure for “the coolest corner of the stage for next year’s North Carolina” is the Ashe concert as well. Many people County Chamber of Comwould like to see Scythian merce. back, but we also have plans The chamber issued a new for an opening act.” annual celebration, the CoolAt the same time, the est Corner Ashe Bash, which chamber is also continuing took place in July 2021 and to get the word out through featured the band Scythian Ashe about MerleFest, as as the first to grace the stage a sponsor for the Walker at the Ashe County GovernCenter Stage. Combined ment Center. Thousands of with a booth at the festival, locals and tourists enjoyed Honeycutt said the goal is to the night with their family drive just 30 more miles to and friends, being served by enjoy the cooler air and hear various food vendors. Cham- some more music in Ashe. ber Executive Director Kitty In addition, the Chamber Honeycutt said she couldn’t also welcomed riders to the be more pleased with the High Country in the Blue outcome. Ridge Brutal on Aug. 21. “The Ashe Bash was a “We’re excited and blast and we were very hon- relieved that everything has
BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE
Riders navigate a turn on the Blue Ridge Parkway on during the 31st annual Blue Ridge Brutal on Saturday, Aug. 21. gone very smoothly. We’re grateful for the volunteers, sponsors and all of the riders that came. We’re just a little overwhelmed by the
support, not overwhelmed by the work or any of that, but just overwhelmed by the support and the community that has really turned
out to support these folks,” us for holding the event. Honeycutt. “The riders have They’re grateful to have a been so appreciative. They’re ride, and they keep thanking a very, very nice group of SEE CHAMBER ON PAGE 13 people, they have thanked
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ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Mountain Times Publications • Page 13
CHAMBER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
us for holding it. The committee who has helped for the last 30 years has been great at showing us the ropes.” The Chamber has also worked to build up the community around them, with leadership programs and scholarships for local students. “The Ashe Advantage scholarship fund is for high school and homeschool seniors. This year, we were able to give more money and scholarships than ever,” Honeycutt said. “We collect money all year, like at the member blasts we do a 50/50 drawing, some of PHOTO BY GERMAIN MEDIA our members send in a little bit The Ashe County Courthouse is packed with concertgoers as Scythian headline the Ashe Bash Concert in July 2021. of extra money with their renewals to go to the scholarship fund and then lately we’ve had some leadership through the lens of local program, they also have the Dick Connect Ashe to be introduced in Ashe County Chamber of Commemorial scholarships put into businesses, with themes and cours- Miller Youth Leadership program 2021, which rewards seniors who merce, stop by 1 N. Jefferson Ave. place.” es designed to cover a wide variety for high school juniors and seniors. have put their time and love into in downtown West Jefferson, go The Leadership Ashe program of specialties. Not only does the Additionally, the Chamber is the community they call home. to www.ashechamber.com or call gives participants an inside look at chamber run the Leadership Ashe planning on a new program called For more information about the (888) 343-2743.
SLOW DOWN A LITTLE. As fast as ever. 1400 Mt. Jefferson Road Ste 6 West Jefferson
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Inspiring success and engagement: Education in Ashe County is impacting students BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Throughout Ashe County, education has been seen as a top priority among the lives of parents, students, staff and teachers. In the county, the Ashe County School system has continued to offer its tremendous efforts and service to every student who walks down the halls. Seven schools are included across the district including the recently established Ashe County Early College who saw their very first graduating class in May of 2021 and the Ashe location of Wilkes Community College. Superintendent Dr. Eisa Cox said the schools will and always will promote healthy learning and top notch graduation success. “Education is more than reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies and the arts,” said Cox. “It means inspiring and preparing all students to live their best lives. This school year, our key focus areas in Ashe County Schools are engagement, growth mindset, personalization and relationships. We want all students to be engaged in meaningful and quality work and to grow each year. We also want every child to have a plan for success to graduate ready for what is next. Children need to have an advocate, be valued and supported. Building strong relationships with students, families and our community will foster an accepting, caring learning environment.”
PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Eisa Cox and Ashe County Sheriff B. Phil Howell speak on the success of the Back 2 School event on Aug. 7.
The school board created a group in early 2021 to formulate the strategic plan for Ashe County Schools which included Cox, two Ashe County Board of Education members, teachers, students and parents. The county has continued to push students to strive to become the best versions of themselves as well as have the opportunities to become more involved and prepared for school. “I am proud of the way
our community supports our schools,” said Cox. “This was especially evident in the successful Back to School Blast held in conjunction with our sheriff’s office. This year, as a part of our new strategic plan, we have a new STEM Innovator for our elementary schools who is working to partner with our community to build opportunities for hands-on learning. We also have a Lead Innovator of Student Success working to engage
and reengage high school students and personalize the educational experience with individual success plans. All of our teachers are focused on designing engaging and quality work for students, and building meaningful relationships so this can be the best year yet.” To learn more about Ashe County’s schools and how to register, visit the Ashe County Schools website at www. SEE EDUCATION ON PAGE 15
The new Ashe County Middle School While a completion date has not been finalized, the new middle school in Jefferson should be in full use about September 2024. The new middle school is being funded by the County along with the BOE, totaling as a $61.3 million project. Grades will differ from the current middle school as sixth, seventh and eighth graders will begin to walk the halls. Located just behind the old Gates building, now occupied by AEV, the middle school will offer state-of-the-art athletic fields. Construction of the new middle school has been progressing over the years, but monumental ground was broken in August.
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EDUCATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
asheschools.org or call (336) 2467175 to learn which school district your address is located in. Additional information on state requirements and school information can also be found by contacting the schools below, or by visiting the Ashe County Schools website.
Ashe Early Learning Center Ashe Early Learning Center’s mission is to provide children with a high-quality and developmentally appropriate education to prepare them for growth and more positive, educational experiences. The school offers a public pre-kindergarten program. AEL is a place “where little stars shine” and its mission statement is “A great beginning start here for a lifetime of learning.” The Ashe Early Learning Center
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is located at 406 School Avenue in West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-3221.
Blue Ridge Elementary School, Warrensville Blue Ridge Elementary School is all about transforming the children of today into the leaders of tomorrow as seen in their vision, which is to encourage dreams, inspire hope, fulfill needs and prepare for students success. The school’s motto is “Dream, believe, become, lead ...” Joallen Lowder is the school’s principal. Blue Ridge Elementary School is located at 5778 N.C. 88 in Warrensville. For more information, call (336) 384-4500.
Mountain View Elementary School, Jefferson Home of the Eagles, Mountain View Elementary School serves grades kindergarten through sixth and is run by Principal David Blackburn. The school’s vision is for the
SCREENSHOT BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
Finance Officer Amanda Coldiron, Dr. Kim Simmons, Vice Chair Dianne Eldreth, Chair Josh Roten, Polly Jones, Keith McClure and Superintendent Dr. Eisa Cox met in regular session for the Ashe County Board of Education.
community and school to form a unified team that works together to provide a welcoming and joyous place for academic and emotional support, where each child can reach his or her full potential.
Mountain Aire Golf Club is an unbelievable place to golf and live.
This well-maintained, public course is located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in Ashe County, just 25 miles from Boone. Eighteen holes of challenging elevations and spectacular views will make this one of your favorite places to visit.
For tee times, call the Pro Shop at 336-877-4716 or visit our website at mountainaire.com
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BRES’s motto is, “Whatever it takes, our kids are worth it!” Mountain View Elementary School is located at 2789 U.S. 221, Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 982-4200.
Westwood Elementary School, West Jefferson Westwood Elementary School teaches grades kindergarten SEE EDUCATION ON PAGE 16
Page 16 • Mountain Times Publications home of the bulldogs and is the only middle school in CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 the county. Its principal is Dustin Farmer. through sixth. The school’s A new two-story building principal is Jennifer Holdwhich will measure more en. than 160,000 square feet for The school’s vision is to the county’s middle school create a child-centered enis currently under developvironment which prepares ment. The county has been students for the 21st century pursuing the construction through collaborative efforts of a new building for four of administrators, educayears and this new building tors, students, staff and will serve sixth through stakeholders. eighth grade students. Westwood’s motto is, The school’s vision is to “Improving tomorrow by foster an environment to learning today.” nurture individuals acWestwood Elementary is ademically, socially and located at 4083 U.S. Highemotionally so that they are way 221 South, West Jeffer- equipped to tackle academic son. For more information, challenges and become procall (336) 877-2921. ductive members of society. The school’s motto is “Stay Ashe County Middle on track ... Dream, Believe School, Warrensville and Achieve.” Serving both seventh and Ashe County Middle eighth grade students, Ashe School is located at 255 County Middle School is the Northwest Lane, Warrens-
EDUCATION
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN ville. For more information, call (336) 384-3591.
Ashe County High School, West Jefferson Home of the Huskies and the only high school in the County, Ashe County High School serves students in grades nine through 12. Its principal is Amanda Hipp. The vision of ACHS is to cultivate a secure and compassionate learning environment, one in which varied individuals can have their learning needs met through rigorous instruction designed to help all students achieve at a high level. Ashe County High School was built in 1999 to consolidate Ashe Central High School, Beaver Creek High School and Northwest Ashe High School. The school’s motto is “Preparing individuals for their future.”
PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
Austin Poe and Keenan Witherspoon hop on the Husky gate for the final hoorah of the conference season.
Ashe County High School is located at 184 Campus Drive, West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-2400. Ashe Early College, West JeffersonThe newest addition to the Ashe County Schools family is located on the Ashe Campus of Wilkes Community College. Ashe Early College is led by Principal Lindsey Williams, successor to former principal Elaine Cox. The 2018-19 school year was the school’s first, where students were able to work toward a high school diploma and potentially an associate’s degree at the same time. In May of 2021, the school had their first graduation ceremony where 14 seniors received diplomas, along with some receiving their associate’s degree from Wilkes Community College. The AEC mission statement is to offer a learner-centered educational experience that prepares students for college, career and life through academic rigor, relevant coursework, and school, parent and com-
Technical degrees students can obtain at the WCC: Ashe Campus include accounting, business administration, applied engineering technology, human services technology and associate degree nursing. The Ashe Campus also works closely with Ashe County High School to provide students with higher educational opportunities. After years of planning and development, the WCC: Ashe Campus expansion project broke ground on Aug. 8, 2019, making way for the two-story, Wilkes Community College: Ashe Campus, 36,000-square-foot addition that will increase opWest Jefferson Offering six full degree portunities for students in programs, including a Ashe County, featuring new college transfer curriculum computer labs, more classthat parallels the courseroom space, a healthcare work required during the simulation lab and other first two years of study at cutting-edge technology. four-year colleges and uniThe WCC: Ashe Campus versities, the Ashe Campus is located at 363 Campus of Wilkes Community Col- Drive in West Jefferson. lege allows Ashe County lo- For more information, cals the opportunity to earn visit www.wilkescc.edu/ their associate’s degree about-us/locations/ without having to travel ashe-campus/ or call (336) outside of the county. 846-3900. munity relationships. It is committed to providing a supportive academic environment where all students are expected to thrive both academically and civically. AEC offers opportunities for first-generation college students, those at risk of dropping out and those who would benefit from accelerated instruction. Ashe Early College is located at 363 Campus Drive in West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-1881.
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The Art of Ashe County gifted the arts scene and those who create in the Artists in Ashe County county and let the arts have been taking inspiracommunity thrive. The tion by the breathtaking core value of the organizamountain scenery in the tion has been promoting High Country for years local artists, galleries and to provide the emotions the communities they and energy only art can come from. portray to viewers. Art has After 38 years of leadcontinued to be on display ership, Executive Director across the county whethJane Lonon retired from er it be barn quilts up in her role at the end of Lansing, architecture in June 2019. Taking up the downtown West Jefferson mantle was Jeff Fissel, or the many murals that who then oversaw the grace the walls of rural continued growth of the Ashe County. arts community. As of now, Fissel has stepped Ashe County down as executive director Arts Council and another has yet to be For 42 years, the Ashe named. County Arts Council has The Ashe Arts Center,
BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
home of the Ashe Arts Council, features a gallery room with revolving exhibits throughout the year. Much of the art on display can be available for purchase, allowing visitors to support the local artists while adding something to their collection. Between June and October, most exhibits will coincide with a monthly event, the Gallery Crawl, which is held on the second Friday of each month. The Gallery Crawls open up the art galleries of West Jefferson, as visitors are welcome to explore and enjoy the works of SEE ART ON PAGE 18
BY IAN TAYLOR/IAN.TAYLOR@ASHEPOSTANDTIMES.COM
New River Brewing in West Jefferson is getting a sizable splash of color, courtesy of artist Whitney Stuart Landwehrmann. This is the second mural of the year for Landwehrmann, who recently finished up ‘Tree of Appalachia’ on the side of Third Day Market. Landwehrmann said the piece is tentatively titled ‘A New Day.’
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ART CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17
artists from the region. In December, a special Christmas Crawl takes place. Places around downtown can participate such as A Designer’s Touch by Lauren, Originals Only Art Gallery and more. The Ashe Arts Center also features a gallery shop which has works from more than 100 artists. Including things such as utensils, decorations and tools, each piece is a unique work of art in itself. For more information on upcoming events and programs hosted by the Ashe Arts Council, visit their website at ashecountyarts.org or call (336) 246-2787.
Ashe Civic Center The home for the performing arts in Ashe County, the Ashe County Civic Center is a 282-seat theater, which throughout the year hosts dozens of plays, concerts and other performances. In 2021, it was also home to pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinics as hosted by the Arts Council and AppHealthCare. Since 1972, the Civic Center has been the home of the Ashe Little Theatre, an all-volunteer group that puts on three or four productions a year. The group promotes community involvement in the arts and high-quality performance, without the high-quality ticket prices. For more information about current and upcoming events and
performances at the Ashe Civic Center, visit www. ashecivic.com or call (336) 846-2787. For more information about the Ashe County Little Theatre, visit www.ashecountylittletheatre.org.
Barn Quilts Barn quilts are a staple of mountain culture, with 150 documented examples on the sides of buildings, businesses and of course, barns, in Ashe. Barn quilts are a symbol of comfort, home, community and the heritage of Ashe County. Barn quilts are an art that holds a special value to Ashe County, and a great deal of pride is taken in the ones in the area. As such, the Ashe Arts Council offers six “loop trails” that cover most of the 150 documented quilts in Ashe County. They are oneand-a-half to two-hours long and are spread across the county. The routes and more information can be found by contacting the Ashe Arts Council at ashecountyarts.org or call (336) 246-2787. The Quilt Square Girls in West Jefferson make custom barn quilts and feature other works from local artists. Barn quilts can be purchased as-is or custom made. For more information, visit www. ilovebarnquilts.com or call (336) 385-0197.
Florence Thomas Art School Since 2008, West Jefferson’s Florence Thomas Art School has been helping to breed the new generation of artists in Ashe County. The nonprofit hosts workshops
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN and classes for all ages throughout the year. A featured gallery at the Gallery Crawl events, the school has helped exhibit the work of local artists and promote art to the masses. The school was made possible by the late Florence Thomas, an Ashe County native. Thomas began her education in 1930 when she enrolled in the School of Design for Women in Philadelphia. For much of the 20th century, Thomas chronicled the nature of the mountains around her home county. She taught art out of her home, which quickly became her studio, for 20 years. In 1978, she helped form the Blue Ridge Art Clan, which for more than 40 years has helped artists create their own style, and in the words of Florence Thomas herself, “If they lost their originality, they’ve lost everything.” Thomas died in 2007 at the age of 98. The school is also home to the Corey Anne Celebration of Women in the Arts, a monthlong exhibit with new artists, and the women who have made the arts special. Corey Anne Considine died June 6, 2013, in Calistoga, Ca. The Ashe native had a passion for the arts, as well as advocating for women of all ages. Her father, Pat Considine, helped start the celebration in her honor, and it has grown and developed in that time. For more information on the Florence Thomas Art School, visit www. florenceartschool.org or call (336) 846-3827.
Murals Murals grace the walls of West Jefferson, mainly in downtown. What started in 1996 as a simple commission by the McFarland and Company publishing house has turned into a series of art work scattered across the county. It has become a must-see for anyone spending time in West Jefferson. Arguably the most wellknown mural is Robert Johnson’s “Spring Wildflowers on Mt. Jefferson,” focusing on the spring wildflowers that grow in Ashe County, with a view of Mt. Jefferson filling the background beneath a blue sky. Johnson restored it in 2017, keeping a town landmark of more than 20 years as good as new. In 2001, Stephen Shoemaker, now one of West Jefferson’s Aldermen, completed “Cut at Devil Stairs” on the Dollar Tire building. The mural depicts a dark train on a stark, white background, and remembers the time when Ashe County relied on the railroad. On the wall of Boondocks Brewing’s Brew Haus, “Unity is Diversity,” a project by the Ashe Arts Council and Ashe County Middle School, where students painted the evolving diversity of Ashe County. The mural celebrates the melting pot aspect of Ashe County, and celebrates a multicultural population. The most recent addition is “Tree of Appalachia” by Whitney Stuart Landwehrmann. Landwehrmann said at the time that it was a
ART GALLERIES IN ASHE Below are the galleries that allow the arts community of Ashe County to flourish: Ashe Arts Center 303 School Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.org CatchLight Gallery 118 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-1551 catchlightgallery.net R.T. Morgan Gallery & Glass by Camille 120 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 246-3328 www.rtmorganartgallery.com Quilt Square Girls 5 E. 2nd St., West Jefferson (336) 385-0197 www.ilovebarnquilts.com The Vintage Locket 16 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-7600 (828) 263-7253 www.thevintagelocket.com Backstreet Beads 111 A N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 877-7686 www.backstreetbeads.com Great Southern Gothic 103 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-2410 www.greatsoutherngothic.com Bohemia 5 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-1498 Originals Only Gallery 3 B N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com Florence Thomas Art School 10 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-3827 www.forenceartschool.org Acorn Gallery 103 Long St., West Jefferson (336) 246-3388 www.acorngallery.com Shoemaker Studio 113 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 877-7642 www.stephenshoemaker.com Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery 105 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-2218 www.ashecustomframing.com
great honor to join the rich history of West Jefferson’s murals. It can be hard to see all 17 murals that are spread throughout West
Jefferson in one trip. However, to see so many beautiful pieces in a setting like West Jefferson is well-worth a second go-round.
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The Frescos of Ashe County BY ANDREW COLE Nearly five decades have past since internationally renowned artist Ben Long first put brush to wet plaster in the historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, outside of West Jefferson to create what would become the first in his collection of larger than life Fresco paintings in North Carolina — “Mary Great With Child.” And each year since, scores of visitors from across the globe have continued to make the pilgrimage to the two modest wooden church’s in Ashe County to view them. Long, who studied under the last Pietro Annigoni — Italy’s last living master of the 20th century — would go on to produce six
ASHE COUNTY FRESCO LOCATIONS • Ashe County’s Ben Long Frescos housed by the Episcopal Parish of the Holy Communion • St. Mary’s Church, 400 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, NC 28694 • Holy Trinity Church, 195 J.W. Luke Road, Glendale Springs, NC 28629
additional Frescos across western, North Carolina throughout his career. Including a large depiction of the Last Supper located in the Church of the Holy Trinity located at 195 J.W. Luke Rd. in Glendale Springs. The unique works of art have taken on special meaning to the churches which house them, awakening a sense of spirituality in many
viewers and drawing in visitors to the parish who may have otherwise never made the trip. “They certainly have a spiritual meaning. It makes the scripture stand out more if we happen to be studying a scripture that pertains to one of the Frescos that are in one of the two churches,” said Doug Worsham,
PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE
‘The Last Supper,’ as depicted by artist Ben Long inside the Holy Trinity Church, located in SEE FRESCOS ON PAGE 20 Glendale Springs.
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Page 20 • Mountain Times Publications
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
FRESCOS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19
church member and coordinator of the Fresco Ministry Outreach Program for the Episcopal Parish of the Holy Communion. “It helps give you a feeling of being closer to God when you’re inside each church.” According to Worsham, the phrase Fresco is derived from the word “fresh,” with true Italian styled Frescoes being painted on wet plaster using different colored minerals and clays as a medium. Each year it is estimated that around 50,000 visitors make the trip to both the St. Mary’s and Holy Trinity annually in order to see the traditionally painted works of art. “The number of visitors were reduced to about half the amount that usually come because of COVID-19, but they did keep coming,” Worsham said. “What we have for July (2021), is that St. Mary’s had 5,306 visitors and Holy Trinity had 5,452 visitors.” According to the parish guest books the visitors represent a variety of different states as far away as Colorado, Nevada, Minnesota and New Jersey, as well as different countries such as Zimbabwe, Costa Rica, Bulgaria and Korea. For more information about the Ben Long Fresco Trail visit www.blueridgeheritage.com/destinations/ blue-ridge-frescoes/.
PHOTO COURTESY MCFARLAND
‘The Ashe County Frescoes of Benjamin F. Long IV’ by Janet C. Pittard and David B. Chiswell (McFarland, $19.99, 98 pages).
FILE PHOTO
The ‘Mystery of Faith’ fresco by Ben Long is featured on the wall of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson.
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Mountain Times Publications • Page 21
Churches of Ashe County COMPILED BY ANDREW COLE Fellowship and faith are a significant part of the fabric of Ashe County. Throughout the region there are plenty of opportunities for one to get involved in the spiritual community. Below is a list of contact information for the majority of churches and other religious organizations in Ashe County. Appalachian Church Rev. Steve Ashley 787 Ray Taylor Road West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 (336) 977-2911 Apple Grove Baptist Church Rev. Jullian Owen 553 Ripshin Road Lansing, NC 28643 Ashe Baptist Association Rev. David Blackburn P.O. Box 850 Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-5631 Ashe County Worship Center Pastor Chuck Call 863 Ray Taylor Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-1189 Ashe Presbyterian Church in America Rev. Herb Parunak 220 Lynch Colvard Road Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 246-2979 Bald Mountain Baptist Church Rev. John Elledge 1460 Bald Mountain Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 877-1550 Baldwin Community Church Rev. Kenneth Grubb 1549 NC Hwy 194 S. Todd, NC 28684 Baptist Chapel Rev. Tommy McClure 142 Ray Davis Road Lansing NC 28643 (336) 384-2888 Beaver Creek Baptist Church Rev. Johnny Goodman 3895 Bare Creek Road Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-3524 Beaver Creek Christian Church Rev. Loren Lung 1676 Beaver Creek School Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-3795 Ben Bolen Baptist Church
PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE
The historic Holy Trinity Church is located at 195 J.W. Luke Road in Glendale Springs. The small chapel is home to Ben Long’s ‘The Last Supper,’ which was completed in 1980.
Rev. Willis Rash 2835 Three Top Road Creston, NC 28615 (336) 385-6443 Bethany United Methodist Church Pastor Dan Money 495 Highway 194 South West Jefferson, NC (336) 877-2801 Bethel Baptist Church Rev. Daniel Peak 15366 Old Hwy 16 Grassy Creek, NC 28631 (336) 384-1091 Big Flatts Baptist Church Rev. Billy Norris 466 Stony Ford Road Deep Gap, NC 28618 (828) 964-8837 Big Laurel Baptist Church Rev. Mike Trivette 621 Trivette Hollow Road Creston, NC 28615 (336) 385-9684 Big Laurel Christian Union Rev. Darrell Graybeal
2550 Big Laurel Road Creston, NC 28615 (336) 385-3054 Big Laurel Mennonite Church Rev. Kirby Herman 5500 Big Laurel Road Creston, NC 28615 (336) 385-6136 Big Springs Baptist Church Rev. JB Ham 316 Honeysuckle Lane Lansing, NC 28643 Blackburn’s Tabernacle Rev. J.D. Walton 3986 Todd Railroad Grade Road Todd, NC 28684 (336) 877-1962 Blue Ridge Baptist Church Rev. Teddy Shatley 168 Gunm Ridge Road Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-3273 Calvary Baptist Church Rev. Kirby McNeill P.O. Box 1104 West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-7482
Calvary Freewill Baptist Church Rev. Sonny Thomas 3020 Old Wilkesboro Road Jefferson, NC 28643 (336) 982-4743 Calvary United Methodist Church Rev. Brian Cornell Jefferson, NC 28684 Chesnut Hill Baptist Rev. Chris Cox 139 Clearview Lane Laurel Springs, NC 28644 Chestnut Hill United Methodist Rev. Rob Brooks 422 Nathans Creek School Road Crumpler, NC 28617 (336) 977-1377 Christian Believers Assembly Rev. J.B. Hamm 316 Honeysuckle Lane Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 384-3107 Christian Unity Baptist Church Rev. Michael Carter 391 Walter Dr.
West Jefferson, NC 28694 (828) 773-3891 Clifton Baptist Church Rev. Jimmy Galgano 780 McNeil Road Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 384-1164 Clifton United Methodist Rev. Margaret Wannemaker 1017 Carl Eastridge Rd Warrensville, NC 28693 (336) 384-3391 Cornerstone Fellowship Pastor Todd Brewer 232 Frank Witherspoon Road Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-3741 Creston United Methodist Pastor Betty Henson 616 Three Top Road Creston, NC 28615 (828) 773-7132 Cristo El Salvador Brother Israel Chupez 342 River Bend Hill’s Road SEE CHURCHES ON PAGE 22
Page 22 • Mountain Times Publications
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CHURCHES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21
Crumpler, NC 28617 (336) 246-9500 Faith Chapel Christian Church Rev. Dominick Mongiove 141 Campbell Glen Lane Fleetwood, NC 28626 (336) 877-4249 Farmers Memorial Baptist Church Rev. Danny Farmer 789 North Flattwoods Road Creston, NC 28615 (336) 385-6642 First Assembly of God Rev. Keith Styron 210 Faw Roland St. Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 246-4444 Flat Grove Union Baptist Church Rev. Joey McClure 2517 Big Piney Creek Road Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 384-1556 Fletcher Memorial Rev. Cory Halsey 201 South Street Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-9642 Friendly Grove Baptist Church Rev. Kevin York 444 Buck Mountain Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 246-3820 Friendship Baptist Church Rev. Russell Hart 891 Friendship Baptist Church Road Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-2080 Glendale Springs Presbyterian Elder Sidney Crunk 350 JW Luke Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 God’s Will Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Allen Huffman 415 Ashe Central School Road Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-3717 Grassy Creek United Methodist Reg. Harold Parks 169 Denise Dr. West Jefferson, NC 28694 Greenes Chapel Baptist Church Rev. Jimmy Eldreth 7891 NC Hwy 194 N Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 877-7296 Happy Trails Cowboy Church
PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE
West Jefferson’s First Baptist Church held its outdoor vacation Bible school — Compassion Camp — in July 2021.
Pastor Roger Blevins 9331 NC 16 North West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 977-2043 Healing Springs Baptist Church Rev. Kevin Jones 854 Virgil Greer Road Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 384-2024 Helton United Methodist Church Rev. Casey McKenna 16003 Hwy 194 N Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 359-8144 Highlands Community Rev. Alan Ambrose 531 Glenbare Road Jefferson, NC 28640 (828) 406-5416 Holy Trinity Episcopal Rev. Kim Becker 195 JW Luke Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 982-3076 Jefferson United Methodist Church Rev. David Lawrence 115 East Main Street Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 877-1672
Landmark Baptist Church Rev. Fred Steelman P.O. Box 52 Glendale Springs, NC 28629 (828) 234-8458 Lansing Community Unity Baptist Church Rev. Joe Riley Blevins 886 Audrey Tuner Road Crumpler, NC 28617 (336) 982-2786 Lansing Presbyterian Elder John Powers Lansing, NC 28643 Laurel Fork Presbyterian Elder Jeff Bumgardner 15232 NC Hwy 18 S Laurel Springs, NC 28644 Laurel Knob Baptist Church Rev. Russel Hart 2945 Bald Mountain Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 246-7050 Liberty Grove Baptist Rev. Toby Oliver 3289 Liberty Grove Church Road Fleetwood, NC 28626 (336) 877-5790 Little Laurel United Methodist Rev. Ricky Mitchell 616 Three Top Road Creston, NC 28615
(336) 385-6260 Meadowview Mennonite Rev. Dan Hess 323 Whenlin Ridge Road Lansing, NC 28643 Midway Baptist Church Rev. Steve LeaShomb 1670 Mount Jefferson Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 246-2012 Mission Home Baptist Church Rev. Lawrence Goodman 1363 Paul Goodman Road Fleetwood, NC 28626 (336) 877-6107 Morning Star Baptist Rev. Jamie Denny Warrensville, NC 28693 (336) 384-9326 Mount Jefferson Baptist Church Rev. Keith Casey 1957 US 221 Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 877-7691 Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church Rev. Will Heyward 201 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-7481 Mount Laurel Moravian Fellowship Church Rev. Ted Burcaw 8586 Hwy 88 Laurel Springs, NC 28644 Mount Olive Baptist Church Rev. Derrick Hodges 204 Leather Hinge Dr. Wilkesboro, NC 28697 (336) 262-5373 Mount Paddy Christian Union Rev. Tim Roten 822 N.C. 88 Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-3174 Mount Vernon Baptist Church Rev. Bennie Roten 2190 Cranberry Creek Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644 Mount View Independent Methodist Rev. Tommy Stevens (336) 385-1225 Mount Zion Baptist Rev. Fred Richardson 236 Richardson Hollow Lansing, NC 28643 Nathan’s Creek United Methodist Rev. Rob Brooks 422 Nathans Creek Sch. Road Crumpler, NC 28617 (336) 977-1377 New River Baptist Church
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Rev. Wayne Jones 227 Buffalo Meadows Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 877-4360 North Beaver Baptist Church Rev. Rick Miller 3991 Hwy. 221 N Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 982-8658 Oak Grove Union Baptist Rev. George Grubb 174 LeChemain Dr. West Jefferson, NC 28694 Oak Hill Baptist Church Rev. JC Darnell 736 Carl Eastridge Road Warrensville, NC 28693 (336) 385-6824 Obids Baptist Church Rev.Mark Harless 458 Will Vannoy Road West Jefferson NC 28694 (336) 877-1553 Old Fields Baptist Church Rev. Larry Powers 124 Dillard Dr. Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 246-9073 Orion Baptist Church Rev. Steven Allen 261 Mt. View Dr. Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 977-6160 Peace Haven Community Church Rev. Bill Miller 211 Bill Miller Lane Deep Gap, NC 28618 Pilot Mountain Baptist Church Rev. Keith Woodie P.O. Box 1421 West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 982-4037 Pine Grove Union Baptist Rev. Joey McClure 2517 Big Piney Creek Road Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 384-1556 Pine Swamp Baptist Church Rev. Steve Viers 793 Gather Poe Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644 (336) 977-9373 Pleasant Hill Church Rev. Terry Woods 534 Roaring Fork Road Creston, NC 28615 (336) 385-5571 Pleasant Home Baptist Church Rev. Lonnie Carpenter 115 Rayfield Acres Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 977-0654 SEE CHURCHES ON PAGE 23
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Mountain Times Publications • Page 23
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
CHURCHES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22
Pleasant View Separate Baptist Rev. Dwight Shepard Lansing, NC 28643 Pleasant Grove Baptist Rev. Roosevelt Carlton 293 Clearview Road Moravian Falls, NC 28654 (336) 921-2515 Pond Mountain Primitive Baptist Elder Eddie G. Lyle 1521 Elliott Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 384-2114 Rich Hill Union Baptist Rev. Tommy Dollar 2702 Frank Dillard Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 Riverview Baptist Church Rev. Evan Moore 195 Grandfather Pine Dr. Fleetwood, NC 28626 (336) 877-3098 Sabbath Home Baptist Church Earl & Dottie Goss 1938 E Little Horse Creek Road Lansing, NC 28643
Senter Primitive Baptist Bob H. Absher 183 Old Ridge Road Crumpler, NC 28617 Seventh-Day Adventist Church Rev. Kevin Morgan (336) 384-2840 Shelter Baptist Church Rev. Mike Mahaney 1281 Windy Hill Road Fleetwood, NC 28626 Shiloh Baptist Church Rev. Warner Eller 602 Roy Goodman Road Crumpler NC 28617 (336) 982-4078 Silas Creek Union Baptist Church Rev. Danny Miller 1027 Big Windfall Road Lansing, NC 28643 Smethport Baptist Church Rev. Phil Arnold 180 Smethport Dr. West Jefferson, NC 28694 Smethport United Methodist Rev. Margaret Wannemacher P.O. Box 187 Warrensville, NC 28693 Southfork Baptist Church Rev. David Cooper 157 Southfork Church Road
Todd, NC 28684 (336) 877-8777 St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Father Cory Catron 167 St. Francis Place Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 246-9151 St. John’s Baptist Rev. Roosevelt Carlton 293 Clearview Road Moravian Falls, NC 28654 (336) 921-2515 St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Rev. Kim Becker (336) 982-3076 Sturgills Baptist Church Rev. Lloyd Day 1301 Claybank Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 Sugar Tree Baptist Church Rev. Jimmy Greer 554 Monroe Miller Road Lansing, NC 28643 Sutherland United Methodist Church Rev. Ricky Mitchell 616 Three Top Road Creston, NC 28615 (336) 385-6260 Three Forks Baptist Church Carroll Roten 2422 Rich Hill Road
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Creston, NC 28615 Three Top Baptist Rev. Bluford Eldreth P.O. Box 123 Jefferson, NC 28640 Transou United Methodist Rev. Rob Brooks 422 Nathans Creek School Road Crumpler, NC 28617 (336) 977-1377 Trinity Baptist Church Rev. Nathan Caprolie P.O. Box 190 Deep Gap, NC 28618 (828) 262-5751 Tuckerdale Baptist Church Rev. Larry Shepard 525 Country Lane Lansing, NC 28643 Union Baptist Church Tim & Roxane Roten 1114 Bee Tree Road Lansing, NC 28643 Valley Home Baptist Rev. Ken Homes Creston, NC 28615 Victorious Life Lutheran Rev. Lambert Gabbert (336) 982-2498 Warrensville Baptist Church Rev. Wade Huntsinger P.O. Box 241 Warrensville, NC 28697
Warrensville United Methodist Church Rev. Margaret Wannemacher P.O. Box 187 Warrensville, NC 28693 (336) 384-3391 Welcome Home Baptist Church Rev. Lonnie Jones 12479 Old Hwy. 16 Grassy Creek, NC 28631 (336) 384-3188 West Jefferson Church of Christ Rev. Timothy Canup (336) 246-5615 West Jefferson First Baptist Church Rev. Michael Lea 225 Knollview Drive Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-2535 West Jefferson United Methodist Church Rev. Dan Gaddy P.O. Box 826 West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 246-5292 Zion United Methodist Church Rev. David Hawkins 253 Zion Methodist Church Road Todd, NC 28684 (336) 877-9002
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Page 24 • Mountain Times Publications
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Mt. Jefferson: Ashe County’s iconic peak BY ANDREW COLE Towering above the town which shares the same name, Mt. Jefferson is the most iconic peak in the Ashe County region. The mountain, which sits 4,683 feet above sea level was designated as a North Carolina State Park in 1956 and is a prime location for outdoor actives such as hiking, picnicking and nature viewing. A paved road winds up the mountain, giving visitors access to six hiking trails — including the child-friendly TRACK trail — picnic areas, and a variety of overlooks where one can glimpse a birdseye-view of the surrounding area. From the mountain’s top, guests can enjoy beautiful vistas as they gaze across the High Country and into nearby states. Estimated to be older than 300 million years old, the mountain has a rich history. Mount Jefferson is named after Thomas Jefferson and his father, Peter, who owned land in the area during the 1700s; and in the past a 5,000-year old Kirk Corner Notch spear point has been was found on the mountain, revealing the region’s Native American past. Currently the mountain is home to more than 750 different species of plants, such as Dutchman’s pipevine, pink lady slipper, rhododendron and mountain laurel, as well as a variety of wildlife ranging from Southern flying squirrel, Virginia opossum, deer and red fox. Located on the slopes just
PHOTO BY LUKE WEIR
Mt. Jefferson in Ashe County is estimated to be 300 million years old.
PARK INFORMATION & ACTIVITIES Mount Jefferson State Natural Area Park office and contact 1481 Mount Jefferson State Park Road, West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 GPS: 36.3936, -81.4680 Before visiting, call (336) 246-9653, email mount.jefferson@ ncparks.gov or check www.ncparks.gov/mount-jefferson-state-natural-area/home for the most up to date park information. Activities: Hiking: The park offers six trails for hiking ranging from moderate to strenuous in difficulty, as well as the child friendly TRACK trail. For more information regarding hiking and trail information visit, www. ncparks.gov/mount-jefferson-state-natural-area/trails. Picnicking: The picnic area is located in a beautiful wooded location near the summit of Mount Jefferson. Facilities include 19 tables and eight grills. There is a picnic shelter which may be reserved.
below Luther Rock, visitors can find a stand of bigtoothed aspen trees. This
particular type of tree is
PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
A popular visitor destination is Sunset Overlook, located on the side of Mount Jefferson in SEE PEAK ON PAGE 25 Mount Jefferson State Park.
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Mountain Times Publications • Page 25
PEAK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24
primarily a northern plant, however they can be found in North Carolina in both Ashe and Haywood counties. Aside from visitors looking to enjoy the mountain’s natural charms, the Mount Jefferson State Natural Area has been is on occasion a location for people looking to test themselves physically. Each year during the Blue Ridge Brutal — a long distance bike race for charity — cyclists have the option of competing in the Mount Jefferson Assault. This 3.4 mile challenges riders to peddle to the summit of Mount Jefferson State Recreation Area, at an elevation gain of nearly 1,476 feet. In the past, the recreation area has also hosted a downhill skateboard race, in which riders will reach speeds of more than of more than 50 miles per hour as they race each other down two miles of pavement. The state park is located at 1481 Mount Jefferson State Park Road outside West Jefferson. For more information about the park visit www.ncparks.gov/mount-jefferson-state-natural-area/home.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Westwood Elementary School second graders and Mt. Jefferson State Natural Area Lead Education Ranger Thomas Randolph pose for a picture during a field trip on Mt. Jefferson.
PHOTO BY LUKE WEIR
Downhill skateboarders swerve the curves of Mount Jefferson State Park Road during the fifth annual Mount Jefferson Downhill.
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Page 26 • Mountain Times Publications
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
WCC Ashe Campus continued its strive for success BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Community Colleges have become essential in providing career building services to all with interest and a strive for success, all at an affordable price. Education has become one of Ashe Counties main priorities to ensure that every student becomes the best version of themselves and the Ashe Campus of Wilkes Community college aids in assistance to those in need. Chris Robinson In the 1970s, WCC began offering college level classes to high school and college students around the county, firstly to the then three high schools in the county and now to Ashe County High School. The first classes offered agriculture and livestock-related programs according to Vice President of the WCC Ashe Campus Chris Robinson as most of the students were then farmers. After building onto their programs, WCC PHOTO SUBMITTED
SEE WCC ON PAGE 27
A snapshot that captures the progress of construction being completed at the expansion site of the WCC Ashe Campus in August 2020.
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Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Mountain Times Publications • Page 27
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
WCC
The new facility which consists of two buildings measuring a total of 36,000 square feet is open for use opened officially in 1976 with an but was recently delayed due to the office to control and look after the COVID-19 pandemic. classes at the high school and the old The two-story, 36,000-squarehospital located in Jefferson. Later foot expansion is expected to in the early ‘80s, the community increase opportunities for students came together to build their own in Ashe County, featuring new campus. The effort was built and computer labs, more classroom head by former county commisspace, a healthcare simulation lab sioner Richard Lemly who was also and other cutting-edge technology, helped by the Ashe County Chamber according to WCC. The expansion of Commerce. The group purchased will also include a separate cosmethe land where the WCC Ashe tology wing, an outdoor learning Campus now sits and the building area and a 1,400-square-foot opened for classes in 1984 with six meeting space for the community classrooms, an office suite and a to reserve. shop area. In November 2018, the Ashe In 1996, WCC Ashe Campus com- County Board of Commissioners pleted its second expansion which committed as much as $8 million added 12 classrooms. This expanin county funding for the project, in sion project was funded by a bond addition to the $3 million being profund and money from the county, vided by bond money from WCC. Robinson said. “We think that is going to be a real Now, 45 years since the first office boom to the community and think establishment, the campus has that it just continues the service that seen another expansion project. we want to provide to our friends CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26
and neighbors,” Robinson said. Currently, the WCC Ashe Campus is experiencing growth in their dual-enrollment program which is referred to as Career & College Promise. According to Robinson, they have about 200 students each year from the high school that take classes. During the past three years, Robinson said they have had eight students who graduated from WCC before they graduated from high school. This not only saves their parents money but gives students who attend a four-year university the support they would have as incoming freshman but begin college as incoming juniors. In 2018, the Ashe Early College began operating out of the WCC Ashe Campus and the first graduating class, consisting of 14 seniors, walked the stage and were handed their diplomas in May of 2021. The AEC will now be led by principal Lindsey Williams. Located at 363 Campus Drive
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in West Jefferson, the WCC Ashe Campus serves students of all ages in their pursuit of an associate’s degree. “Essentially any service that you would expect to get at our Wilkes campus, you can receive at the Ashe Campus it may just be on a little bit smaller scale,” Robinson said. According to Robinson, they will serve about 9 to 10 percent of the overall population in Ashe County. In 2019, through its continued education programs the WCC Ashe Campus served about 2,200 people in Ashe County. In addition to the curriculum programs, firefighter training for volunteer fire departments in the county, in-service trainings for EMTS, law enforcement training and nurse aide and real estate trainings are also completed at the WCC Ashe Campus. Students can also attend WCC for their first two years to earn college credits before transferring to a state university or college and obtaining
their bachelor’s degree. Whatever a student’s plan, the community college is an ideal place to take the first educational step beyond high school, according to Wilkes Community College President Jeff Cox. Currently, the Ashe Campus provides six full degree programs, including a college transfer curriculum that gives students a head start in earning their bachelor’s degree, as well as technical degrees in accounting, business administration, applied engineering technology, human services technology and associate degree nursing. Students of Ashe County High School and Ashe Early College also make use of facilities at the Ashe Campus, enriching their learning environment and preparing them for the next step towards higher education. For more information on the Ashe Campus of WCC, visit their webpage at www.wilkescc.edu/about-us/ locations/ashe-campus or call (336) 846-3900.
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Page 28 • Mountain Times Publications
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
Ashe County’s Christmas tree industry BY ANDREW COLE As fall transitions into winter, bands of visitors can be seen leaving the region with a special souvenir strapped to the roof of their vehicle: Their very own Ashe County Christmas tree. Despite being seen to many as simply a seasonal endeavor, the Ashe Country’s Christmas tree industry is said to produce year round economic and environmental benefits for the region. “There’s a lot involved in the Christmas tree industry that a lot of times goes unnoticed,” said Robin Sexton who’s family are fourth-generation tree growers and the owners of Frosty’s Choose & Cut and Sexton Farms. “It’s almost like looking at your circulatory system. You have so many little branches that it’s hard to even imagine all the ones that being effected.” According to Sexton, each year the local Christmas tree industry provides both longterm and seasonal employment for the High Country, with everyone from shop owners and wreath makers, to truck drivers and planters reaping the benefits. “It can be the person that just goes into the field to clip the clippings, it can be the one that sales the wreath making supplies,” Sexton said. “There are lots of layers on the impact to the economy.” The conifer of choice for High Country growers is the Fraser fir, a variety of tree native to the region and typically found in higher elevations of between 3,000
ASHE COUNTY CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS
FILE PHOTO
Fraser fir Christmas trees line up at the Sexton Farm in Ashe County.
to over 6,000 feet. According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, the tree’s resilience, needle retention, form, dark bluegreen color, pleasant scent and outstanding shipping characteristics has led to the Fraser fir becoming one of the most popular Christmas tree species, with the Old North State producing the majority of the nation’s supply. “The Fraser fir rules the High Country and rules North Carolina. North Carolina is known all over the country for their Fraser firs,” said Paige Patterson, a horticultural extension agent in neighboring Watauga County. Producing a Christmas tree is an investment, with the average tree requiring from seven to 10 years of growth in order to produce a 6-7 feet tree. Though it made seem counterintuitive to chop down a tree after nearly a decade of cultivation, many of the trees find a new life after the holiday season, helping the environ-
ment in ways that artificial trees can not. “It is a sustainable product. It doesn’t go into a landfill and sit for 1,000 years from now, it goes back into the soil,” Sexton said. “You can have it mulched; it’s used for dune restoration at the beaches. A lot of times, they submerge Christmas trees for habitat in lakes.” According to a statistic provided to Sexton by the Ashe County Cooperative Extension Office, Ashe County’s Christmas trees alone provide enough daily oxygen for 252,000 people. Furthermore, with each tree that is harvested the growers replace the “A positive thing is that every time a tree farm takes down one tree they’re sticking another one back in its place,” said Patterson. Perhaps one of the most important elements of the Ashe County’s Christmas tree industry, however, is the family traditions it SEE TREES ON PAGE 29
Choose and Cut Farms Cranberry Creek Farms Phone: (336) 908-5439 1777 N Burnt Hill Rd Laurel Springs, North Carolina 28644 Frosty’s Choose & Cut Phone: (800) 238-8733 2152 Beaver Creek School Rd West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 Mistletoe Meadows Christmas Trees Phone: (336) 465-9754 583 Burnt Hill Road Laurel Springs, North Carolina 28644 Peak Farms Phone: (336) 977-2097 1011 Low Gap Rd Jefferson, North Carolina 28640 Retail Lots Mountain Greens Phone: (704) 400-5665 Peak Farms Phone: (336) 977-2097 1011 Low Gap Rd Jefferson, North Carolina 28640 Mail Order Trees and Wreaths Andrews Tree Farm & Nursery LLC Phone: (336) 372-1657 691 Hoppers Dairy Rd Sparta, North Carolina 28675 West End Wreaths Phone: (336) 384-4440 5983 194N Warrensville, North Carolina 28693 Wishon Evergreens Phone: (336) 372-7086 535 Napco Road Sparta, North Carolina 28675 Wholesale Farms Barr Evergreens of North Carolina Phone: (336) 982-3013 321 East Healing Springs Road Crumpler, North Carolina 28617 Big Meadow Mountain Nursery Phone: (919) 787-1929 19201 A HWY 88 W Creston, North Carolina 28615 Cardinal Tree Farms LLC Phone: (336) 846-2976 571 Baldwin Rd West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 Cheek Brothers Tree Farm Phone: (336) 977-6866 3405 NC Hwy 88 East Jefferson, North Carolina 28640 Clark’s Evergreens and Landscaping Phone: (336) 877-7615 2930 Liberty Grove Church Rd. Fleetwood, North Carolina 28626
Cline Church Nursery Phone: (336) 877-4237 160 Hewed Log Gap Road Fleetwood, North Carolina 28626 Cranberry Creek Farms Phone: (336) 908-5439 1777 N Burnt Hill Rd Laurel Springs, North Carolina 28644 Grouse Ridge Christmas Tree Farm Inc. Phone: (336) 480-5440 14911 Old NC Hwy 16 Grassy Creek, North Carolina 28631 Happy Holiday Christmas Trees Phone: (336) 846-2214 954 NC Hwy 194 N West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 Mile High Tree Farm Phone: (336) 977-1024 148 Mile High Lake Rd West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 Mistletoe Meadows Christmas Trees Phone: (336) 465-9754 583 Burnt Hill Road Laurel Springs, North Carolina 28644 Mountain Advantage Christmas Trees Phone: (336) 846-6285 502 S. Jefferson Ave West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 Mountain Greens Phone: (704) 400-5665 Peak Farms Phone: (336) 977-2097 1011 Low Gap Rd Jefferson, North Carolina 28640 River Ridge Tree Farms Phone: (336) 982-3953 12077 US Hwy 221 N Scottville, North Carolina 28672 Shatley Farms, LLC Phone: (336) 982-9462 3509 US Hwy 221 N Jefferson, North Carolina 28640 Steve Leath & Sons Phone: (336) 982-2207 2014 Low Gap Road Jefferson, North Carolina 28640 Sturgill Tree Farms Phone: (336) 246-4343 1344 NC Hwy 88 West West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 Weaver Tree Farms, Inc. Phone: (336) 246-7951 417 Weaver Farms Rd West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694 West End Wreaths Phone: (336) 384-4440 5983 194N Warrensville, North Carolina 28693 Windy Ridge Tree Farms Phone: (336) 657-2148 1250 Old County LIne Road Laurel Springs, North Carolina 28644
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Mountain Times Publications • Page 29
It’s
TREASURE FILE PHOTO
Employees of Frosty’s Choose-n-Cut, located in Ashe County load customers’ Christmas trees into a baler.
PHOTO BY LUKE BARBER
Approximately 56 Christmas trees are loaded onto a flatbed truck and shipped to Washington, D.C., to be a part of the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
TREES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
builds along the way, both for local family farmers and visitors alike. “These choose-n-cut farms, they really do get to see people’s kids grow up,” said Patterson. “The one’s
that have been in busy for a long time, they remember the parents bringing the kids, and now they’re seeing the children come back with their children. It really does build that tradition.” For more information about Ashe County Christmas tree production visit ncchristmastrees.com/.
1291 Mount Jefferson Road Mon-Sat: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. | Sun: 1-6 p.m. goodwillnwnc.org
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Ashe County cares: Health services in Ashe County COMPILED BY ANDREW COLE From quality family care, orthopedics, eye care and more, Ashe County’s medical community has long offered top-notch, professional care to the region’s citizens. Each year, the health care field brings new medical advances to Ashe County, and occasionally new health care facilities. One of the county’s newest healthcare providers is Fleetwood Family Medicine, which opened its doors on May 10, 2021. The new facility specializes in high quality primary care services as well as care for common and complex conditions, ranging from cold and flu, ear infections and gastrointestinal problems to falls, minor burns and lacerations, thus bringing top-notch medical care to Ashe resident located in more rural areas of the county. “It’s really exciting for this community. You think, you could go to Jefferson, or West Jefferson or Boone but they’ve not had anything like this out here. So, it’s really exciting for this rural community,” said Katie Miller, family nurse practitioner for Fleetwood Family Medicine during the clinic’s ribbon cutting. Ashe county also has several long-standing medical institutions, perhaps the most well-known being Ashe Memorial Hospital. Since its founding in 1941, the hospital has provided the best medical care available for the people of Ashe County. Although the hospital has evolved from a
ASHE HEALTHCARE SERVICES
PHOTO COURTESY OF ASHE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Ashe Memorial Hospital has received a new CT Scanner which will allow for increased services.
small medical facility to one of the Top 100 critical access hospitals in the United States, its commitment to provide the highest level of care possible for rural areas of Ashe County remains the same. Ashe Memorial Hospital is a unique Critical Access Hospital and functions as a 25-bed inpatient facility as well as a 12-bed emergency department that offers many services. Services available at Ashe Memorial
Hospital include a 24/7 hospitalist program, an orthopedic, an oncology/chemotherapy, a rural health clinic and employed physician practices. In early 2020, Ashe Memorial hospital was recognized by The Chartis Center of Rural Health and the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health for overall excellence in Patient Outcomes. Based on the results of the Hospital Strength INDEX from iVantage Health
Analytics, the Performance Leadership Awards reflect top quartile performance among all rural hospitals in the United States in either quality, outcomes or patient perspective. Aside from its quality healthcare facilities, Ashe County has has a team of dedicated first responders ready to provide care in case of an emergency. Ashe County’s Emergency Services Organizations include two ambulance services,
Ashe County has several other medical services available for those in need: AppHealthCare (Ashe Health Department) 413 McConnell St. Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 246-9449 Ashe Family Healthcare 952 U.S. 221 BUS West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-6500 Ashe Optometric Eyecare Center 306 S Jefferson Ave West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 246-8863 Ashe Medical Associates 151 Medical Park Drive Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 246-7161 Ashe Women’s Center 420 East 2nd St. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-6246 Ashe Orthopedics 200 Hospital Ave Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-7101 Ashe Pediatrics 303 E. 2nd St. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-4543 Elevation Health, P.C. 17 E Buck Mountain Rd West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 646-7442 Fleetwood Family Medicine 13300-13290 Hey 221 South, Fleetwood, NC 28626 (336) 877-9090 High Country Doulas (828) 278-8949 info@highcountrydoulas.com High Country Family Medicine 200 Hospital Ave. #7 Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-7238 Wilma Vannoy Birthing Center 200 Hospital Ave. Jefferson, NC 28640 (336) 846-0734 one rescue squad, and 12 volunteer fire or fire and rescue departments located around the county. For more information about services, community
involvement or to learn more about the county’s hospital call (336) 8467101, visit the website at ashememorial.org or find them on Facebook.
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
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ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
Protecting Ashe County BY CHANDA RICHARDSON As the world becomes clouded with protests, pandemics and danger lurking around every corner, Ashe County sheds a light at the end of the tunnel through the hardworking law enforcement which vow to protect the county and community.
Ashe County Sheriff’s Office Ashe County Sheriff’s office, located at 40 Government Cir in Jefferson is the main source of law and protection the county provides. Headed by Sheriff B. Phil Howell and Chief Deputy Danny Houck, the ASCO lends a helping hand to anyone in need. 106 people are employed through the Sheriff’s Office
PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON
Sheriff B. Phil Howell and Superintendent Dr. Eisa Cox speak to Lucas Phipps about the Sheriff for a Day aspect of the event.
“Whether it’s in detention, patrol, administration, secretaries, telecommunicators or the kitchen, we’re all there to support each other,” Howell said. “It’s not just a
one-person job; sheriff is an elected position and by that it means that that building across the road is the Ashe County people’s office. That is everybody’s office, that’s
the whole point of that.” In addition to the heroic acts of the ASCO, such as helping neighboring counties in emergency situations, they also dedicate their time to providing for the students of Ashe County. On Aug. 7 of 2021, the ASCO teamed up with Ashe County Schools to put on the Back 2 School Blast, the first of its kind, to provide a fun-filled day for students to gather free school supplies, check out their schedules, grab a bag of popcorn and cotton candy and sit in the front seat of a patrol car through the “Sheriff for a Day” program. “It’s fun to watch kids sit and push the buttons in the patrol cars,” said Howell. “We couldn’t have asked for
a better day.” The ASCO also recently received their state-of-the-art helmets and shields, provided by Blueridge Armor. “These shields are the ones that the US Marshall Service went with,” said Houck. “The main reason we went with these is that most of the shields have a rectangle shape with an opening for the officers to have more ability to see through the shield. There are 38 patrol shields and two rifle raided shields. We also got 38 helmets. Dale Taylor, the manufacturer is going to send a team up and every deputy is going to have a two-day training.” Both Howell and Houck said they were glad to be gifted with further protection
in order to come home at the end of the day dafe and sound with their families. In addition to ASCO, both West Jefferson and Jefferson are home to police departments.
West Jefferson Police Department Brad Jordan is the chief of police for West Jefferson. WJPD is located at 1 S Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson and can be contacted at (336) 246-9410.
Jefferson Police Department Chief of police for the town of Jefferson is currently David Witherspoon. JPD is located at 213 E Main St, Jefferson and can be contacted at (336) 846-5529.
Boomtown: Ashe real estate industry boasts notable year BY ANDREW COLE In Ashe County, business is booming for the local real estate industry. In the past year, the region has seen an increase in newcomers who have moved to the area and are eager to take life at a slower pace and enjoy the county’s natural beauty. The COVID-19 pandemic has clearly brought on many changes to the High Country, with some Realtors noting its lingering effects on the local housing market. “I think it’s a couple of different things. I think you have people who are wanting to get out of the cities, people are wanting to find a simpler way of life,” said Ashe County Realtor Amy Ballou
regarding the influx of new residents. “They want to get out of the cities and raise their families in places that are safer. That’s one thing. I think another is that if the pandemic did anything, it made working remotely the new normal. So people who have wanted to live here for years, now they can because they can live where they want to live and continue to work in their same job.” Local Realtors also point out that the the area is not longer simply a place for second home buyers, but younger families looking to relocate year round. “With us being located in downtown West Jefferson it’s just been crazy the
amount of traffic that we’ve seen coming into the area,” said Josh Johnson of Vannoy Properties. “Obviously these folks are wanting to relocate, and a lot of them can work from home now. One trend that we notice is that we’re not only a second home market anymore, some of these buyers are younger buyers that are selling what they have in other places and moving to our more rural area to make it their permanent home.” As of now, the market shows no signs of slowing down. In June 2021, according the High Country Association of Realtors, the number of homes sold rose to 46, totaling $15.67 mil-
Beautiful homes fill Ashe County. West Jefferson residents Mary Allen, left, and Harriett M. Buchanan, right, sit outside Allen’s home on a summer day.
lion, over the 29 sold in June a year prior. The median sales price for those homes: $300,000 — up about 9.1 percent above June 2020. If trends continue on the same path, local real estate agents
predict a similar number of sales in 2022. “I think the market may slow down a little, but I don’t think we’re going to see a dramatic decrease,” said Ballou.”A lot of it depends
on interest rates, but as long as interest rates stay decent and things continue the direction they’re going then I just don’t see a dramatic decrease.” Likewise, Johnson stated that he believes that Ashe county will continue to see positive growth. “The inventory has gotten a lot tighter, we do not have as many properties on the market due to the influx of people that we had in 2020 and the pandemic, said Johnson. “But, I do believe that Ashe County is going to continue to grow, I believe that West Jefferson is going to continue to grow. The housing market in our area I feel is going to stay strong.”
Page 32 • Mountain Times Publications
Wednesday, August 25, 2021
ASHE COUNTY MY HOMETOWN
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