Banner Elk My Hometown 2021-22

2021-22 The High Country is a great place to visit ... and a better place to live!

Retail ∙ Entertainment ∙ Restaurants ∙ Events ∙ Recreation ∙ Important Numbers Real Estate ∙ Organizations ∙ Chambers of Commerce ∙ Civic Groups ∙ Education

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Wednesday, December 29, 2021

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

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Mountain Times Publications • Page 3

M A G N I F I C E N T H O M E S , B E A U T I F U L L O T S , G R E AT L I F E S T Y L E The High Country of North Carolina truly is a spectacular part of the world. For those who dream of making this place home, the search for the right property requires local expertise. With so many fantastic communities, custom homes and ready-to-build lots packed full of potential, you need an advisor you can trust.

At Engel & Völkers, we helped many families in 2021 find their dreamlife in the mountains, from large custom-built homes to beautiful condominiums with mountain views and overlooking golf courses. With our local knowledge and expert advice, we'll guide you every step of your journey.

Not only does Engel & Völkers offer local expertise, but we're also the leading residential real estate resource with a huge global reach and international network.

When the time comes for you to sell, we'll help pair you and your property with the ideal buyer.

Contact us today to discuss all your real estate needs.

Engel & Völkers Banner Elk 610 Banner Elk Highway . Banner Elk . NC 28604 . +1 828-898-3808 Learn more at bannerelk.evrealestate.com

©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

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BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Welcome to Banner Elk — it’s just better here!

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t’s all here in the beautiful mountain Town of Banner Elk. With beautiful mountain scenery, four distinct seasons and a small-town college atmosphere, Banner Elk has become the destination for visitors to the High Country!

If your interests are winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing or snowshoeing, Banner Elk has it all. Nestled between the two largest winter sports venues in the South, Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, Banner

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce President Jo-Ann McMurray.

Elk offers the perfect place to stay. Whether your preference is a stay at a traditional B&B in a historic home, a cozy vacation

home, or a pet-friendly hotel, Banner Elk offers accommodations to meet every need and budget.

The summer time offers

world-class fly fishing, hiking, road and mountain cycling. Banner Elk is just minutes from all levels of hiking at Grandfather Mountain, and the spectacular Linville Gorge.

The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway offers spectacular views, and Banner Elk is the nearest exit to the renowned Linn Cove Viaduct. Taking advantage of our mountain location, Lees-McRae College offers one of the premier cycling programs in the country, not to mention a full season of shows, plays and perfor-

mances at its state-of-theart entertainment facilities and theater.

Banner Elk offers the widest array of dining in the High Country, too! Whether your tastes lean towards Italian, Chinese, Cajun, Vietnamese, seafood, prime rib or maybe you just want a great sandwich or salad, Banner Elk has a restaurant for every taste, and every wallet, with most restaurants having full ABC licensing.

So, come and enjoy a walk around our pedestrian-friendly town, filled with quaint restaurants,

shops and galleries, while taking in the spectacular, ever-changing views that the mountains of the High Country offer.

If you need any assistance with your business or family relocation, retirement planning or help with a vacation itinerary, just give us a call at (828) 898-8395.

The Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce is here to make you feel like a local, because — it’s just better here!

Jo-Ann McMurray President, Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce

Avery County: What can we do for you?

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elcome to Avery County, a jewel in North Carolina’s crown!

The county, nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, consists of eleven charming small towns worth exploring: Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Crossnore, Elk Park, Linville, Linville Falls, Newland, Pineola, Plumtree, Seven Devils and Sugar Mountain. There are no more than two stop lights in any of our towns.

Airports at our disposal are Asheville Regional Airport, Avery County Airport, and Tri-Cities Airport, with Charlotte International Airport only a couple of hours away.

We proudly boast of our four-season climate where

spring, summer and fall offer amazingly pleasant temperatures and Anne winter Winkelman offers moderate winter weather, suitable for winter sports. Excellent skiing and snowboarding can be found at both Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain resorts.

For those enjoying outdoor activities, we offer hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, tubing (snow and water), golfing, horseback riding, ziplining, swimming and skiing. Also, enjoy arts and crafts festivals, art galleries, shopping, excellent food/restaurants, wineries,

and breweries.

Avery County host amazing festivals, such as juried Fine Arts and Master Crafts, Oktoberfest, Sugarfest and our famous Woolly Worm Festival. The area now offers a certified Bare Dark Sky Observatory and the first NC Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster.

From Grandfather Mountain you can walk across a one-mile-high swinging bridge, have lunch and enjoy the awe-inspiring view from an elevation of 5,964 feet. Not only that, but you can visit Grandfather Mountain’s wildlife habitat where you will see otters, eagles, elk, deer, black bears, cougars, and more. By mid-2022, Grandfather’s Wilson Center for Nature Discovery will be complete. The

center will add a dozen interactive exhibits that connect to the mountain’s 16 natural communities, weather, climate and natural history. New outdoor learning spaces include an amphitheater among the trees and a pavilion. Inside, an ADA-accessible theater, classrooms and new food service facilities will extend the park’s capacity for hosting events.

Avery County celebrates a rich history, much of which can be learned at our Avery County Historical Museum, located at 1829 Schultz Circle in Newland, the county seat. Other museums in the county include the Banner House and Beech Mountain Museum. If you happen to be a railroad enthusiast, you can visit the lovingly

restored Linville Depot and Caboose #505 (of Tweetsie Railroad fame) with the Avery County Historical Museum.

Cultural events are offered through Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk. We host Arts & Crafts shows at least twice a year, as well as the famous Woolly Worm Festival (Festival No. 45 is coming up in October 2022). Several of our communities offer free music concerts through the summer months as well.

If you can’t find enough to do above-ground, visit the naturally awesome Linville Caverns on Highway 221, just north of Marion.

See amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations, a bottomless pool, underground stream with native

trout and more.

Health and wellness options are provided by the Williams YMCA, Ballad Health, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare System.

When visiting in the area, we invite you to drop by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at Shoppes of Tynecastle, 4501 Tynecastle Highway, Suite #2, Banner Elk, or call us at (828) 898-5605. We will be more than happy to answer your questions and advise you on things to do. We love visitors!

Again, we thank you for visiting Avery County and invite you to come back soon.

Anne Winkelman Executive Director, Avery County Chamber of Commerce

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

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BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

DIANNE DA V ANT &ASSOCIATES Dianne Davant Moffitt, ASID Margaret Handley, ASID Pamela McKay, Priscilla Hyatt Councill, ASID

ASID

Banner Elk, North Carolina 828.963.7500 Stuart, Florida 772.781.1400 davant-interiors.com

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Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Welcome ... to our outstanding education system!

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Avery County Sheriff Kevin Frye.

Welcome from the Avery County Sheriff

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hen the thoughts of small town America play in my mind, the picture of Banner Elk is what I envision.

Banner Elk has such a dichotomy. On its surface it gives the appearance of the simple times of old, but, look a bit closer, and you see a state-of-the-art area with the best of restaurants, boutiques and shops.

As sheriff of Avery County, in which Banner Elk is the face for so many visitors each year, I cordially invite you to come by, visit, spend some time and get to know the best area and the

best county in the entire state. I can assure those who come by that you will come back — our Southern hospitality and local charm will win you over like it does thousands of others each year.

So, if you like small-town atmosphere, but want the best of modern conveniences; if you want one of the safest places in America but still want to have and be close to active night activities; if you want four true seasons to see God’s handiwork in nature, then you want to come to Banner Elk, in Avery County, N.C. Kevin Frye Avery County Sheriff

ocated in the unique town of Banner Elk, Banner Elk Elementary School is one of five elementary schools within the Avery County School System. It is the most recently constructed school in the county and was opened in 2011.

The building is a stateof-the-art facility with an administration, faculty and staff who are dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience for all students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.

Banner Elk Elementary School works very closely with our local civic organizations. For example, Kiwanis supports our Terrific Kids’ program and the Woolly Worm Festival. The school also receives tremendous support from the High Country Charitable Foundation for the book exchange program and the after school program.

These are just a few examples that BES is truly a community school and is supported by the local businesses and community members.

In addition to a caring and capable staff, Banner Elk Elementary has a very active Parent Teacher Organization. The PTO, along with school and county staff, ensure that students have very diverse opportunities to learn including the designation as an “Arts A+”

school that integrates the arts with curriculum.

BES was recognized in December 2019 as having achieved the distinction of “Exceeding Academic Growth” for the 2018-2019 school year. As a result of outstanding programs and support for all students, enrollment at BES has steadily increased year after year.

Technology is woven into all aspects of the curriculum. The Avery County School System was the first school system in North Carolina to deploy the “1 to 1” initiative.

Our “1 to 1” initiative continues to provide students in kindergarten through twelfth grade with computers to support technology requirements expected within the current and future workforce.

When students complete the fifth grade at BES, they will go to one of the Avery County’s two middle schools, Cranberry Middle School or Avery Middle School.

Following middle school, students then transition to Avery High School.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Dr. Dan Brigman, Superintendent of Avery County Schools.

All of these schools are excellent places for any child to achieve their utmost potential.

Avery County is consistently in the top five percent for the graduation rate in North Carolina. As a result of our visionary Board of Education and county government, the Avery County High School is currently completing a massive $20 million expansion and renovations to accommodate 21st century learning.

Not only are Avery County’s schools extraordinary, the community itself is very welcoming and offers true southern

hospitality from our local community members. It is a beautiful place with outstanding people and breathtaking views. If you are new to the area or considering joining our community, we welcome the chance to showcase all Avery County has to offer. For more information about our world-class school system and Banner Elk Elementary School, please visit our website at averycountyschools. net.

Thank you and God bless.

Dr. Dan Brigman Superintendent, Avery County Schools

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Welcome to Banner Elk: A special kind of town

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anner Elk is special. No one comes here that doesn’t want to stay. You might have already read the information shared in this publication by the two Chambers of Commerce Brenda Lyerly about the area’s beautiful scenery, seasons and amenities. Now let’s delve into what the Town of Banner Elk has done to make the downtown so inviting and special.

We had an historic elementary school built in 1938-1939 by the WPA,

which closed in 2011 when a new school was built. This school is in the heart of downtown. With lots of community effort, this rock schoolhouse was transformed into the Cultural Arts Center. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.

It now houses BE Artist Gallery, Banner Elk Book Exchange, Carolina Mountain Life Magazine Corporate Office, Avery Community Yoga Studio, Buckhead Photography Studio, Common Grounds, and Ensemble Stage. The Ensemble Stage is a 99seat theatre space converted from the old school auditorium. Gary Smith

and Lisa Lamont secure professional actors, and this stage company has a huge following.

The frontage of the school is a large field, which faces the main road into town.

This area is used for the famous Woolly Worm Festival the third weekend of each October. Next October will be the 45th year for the Woolly Worm Festival.

There are also four Art on the Greene festivals each summer on weekends of Memorial Day, July 4th, the first weekend in August and Labor Day. Other events can be scheduled through the Banner Elk Town Hall.

This area has also made available more space for badly needed downtown

parking.

There is more work to be done on the school grounds.

The plans are to add a road from Town Hall to the Historic Banner Elk School.

This will add more accessibility and more parking.

Paving in front of the school is planned for the spring.

One of the biggest events of the year is our Fourth of July Parade and Celebration. Come gather with us on Main Street for a oneof-a-kind parade that could only be found in Banner Elk. The day ends in the park with a Duck Race and old-fashioned lawn games.

Tate-Evans Town Park is enjoyed by people and animals of all ages. There are many miles of walking/

biking paths, a dog park, two children’s playgrounds, workout equipment, and a stream for the children to play in. There are also pavilions available for outdoor gatherings. The park also has an amphitheater.

Every Thursday evening in summer there is a free concert with great bands, a dance stage and wonderful food trucks. Bring your own chair and enjoy. That amphitheater is also used for outdoor movies and other events.

“A Small Town Christmas” comes to Banner Elk the first weekend in December. The town park is lit with luminaries and holiday light displays all around the track. There is

Lees-McRae College: Banner Elk’s hometown institution

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any of us have vivid memories of “The Wizard of Oz” when Dorothy clicks her ruby heels together and utters the famous words “There’s No Place Like Home.” No truer words exist to describe Lees-McRae College and Banner Elk. For 121 years, the college and town have thrived together to serve not only our students, but the larger community here in the High Country. And in the world of higher education, there’s truly no place like Lees-McRae.

PHOTO COURTESY LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE

Lees-McRae College President Dr. Lee King.

The uniqueness of our varied academic programs, the charm and character of our campus, and our intentional service to the local community make an

unequaled combination that is something very special. Our motto of In the Mountains, Of the Mountains, For the Mountains perfectly describes our focus, and our intentionality of making our home here in the mountains unlike any other.

It is my hope that you will get to know LeesMcRae and Banner Elk and that you, too, will recognize the unique qualities that make our home something to be proud of.

Lee King President, Lees-McRae College

2019

a train to ride you around that track so you won’t miss anything.

Speaking of Christmas, on Friday evening of the Small Town Christmas weekend, there is a lighting of the Christmas tree at the Corner on Main.

Everyone gathers around the tree with hot chocolate and cookies and listens to Christmas Carolers until the tree is lit. After the tree lighting, everyone heads over to the Ensemble Stage for a Holiday Musical Variety Show. How much more Norman Rockwell could this be?

Can you now see why Banner Elk is special?

Brenda Lyerly Banner Elk Mayor

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Banner Elk boasts a bevy of beverages

BY NEAL FALVEY NEAL.FALVEY@ AVERYJOURNAL.COM

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anner Elk has long been a mountain hamlet destination with an array of things to see and do. The list would not be complete without the ever-popular homegrown wineries and breweries. Satisfying guests from sommelier to master brewer, Banner Elk hones in on the High Country flavor of beverages.

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

Kettell Beerworks Kettell Beerworks is a family owned and operated brewery whose name means “cauldron,” an appropriate title for a brewery considering that Mark and Yumiko Ralston have been brewing up a storm since opening Banner Elk’s brewery in 2017.

On tap is the Vonderbier, a Munich-style lager; ROLLCAST, a Kolsch ale with fruit notes and a clean finish; Copper Elk, an American amber ale and Velvet Panda, a creamy oatmeal stout, among many more seasonal and hand-crafted brews.

The brewery also servers classic bar staples that pair perfectly with their craft beers. Kettell Beerworks distributes across the state, and their signature brews can be found throughout the High Country and local area, including restaurants and grocery chains.

For more information click to kettellbeerworks. com, or call (828) 8988677.

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

The eloquent inside seating at Banner Elk Winery and Villa gives guests the coziest location for enjoying wine and cheese.

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

Blake Hornsby and Samuel Fanthorpe serve wine delicacies behind the counter at Banner Elk Winery and Villa. Fanthorpe also plays live music frequently at the location on the weekends, sometimes inside and other nights on the expansive patio.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa

Banner Elk Winery and Villa became the first winery in Avery County after

opening in 2005.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa has earned itself as number of accolades, including multiple medals

for excellence of products at the North Carolina State Fair.

While vineyard tours are only offered May through

The interior of Kettell Beerworks features an eclectic drinking location. Owner Mark Ralston notes that they sell, “only the highest quality craft beer made from the best Banner Elk High Country water.” Available are a rotating bevy of lagers, ales, IPAs, stouts and more.

September, visitors can enjoy wine tastings year round.

Some of the 10 or so products Banner Elk Winery provides are its Cabernet Sauvignon — with tastes of dark fruits led by black currant, the Banner Elk Red — with tastes of cherry, raspberry, plum and toasted oak, and the Banner Elk Blueberry “Ice” — a dessert wine with undertones of blueberry pie.

The Tuscan-inspired villa on the grounds encompasses seven luxurious suites for guests to enjoy. The villa also offers a serene location to hosts weddings and other special events.

For more information on Banner Elk Winery and Villa click to www.bannerelkwinery.com or call (828) 898-9090.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery After beginning the busi-

ness as a hobby, the Tatum family grew Grandfather Vineyard and Winery grew into a world-class, commercial operation and opened its doors in 2011.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery offers anywhere between 25 to 30 different wines at any given time. Varieties include dry white wine, dry rosé, dry red wine, sweet wine, bubbles and many other vintage and specially-crafted selections.

The winery’s tasting room gives guests a few different option for sampling the wines. The winery’s winter hours are from noon to 6 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The winery is currently closed on Tuesdays.

For more information on Grandfather Vineyard and Winery click to grandfathervineyard.com.

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Mountain Times Publications • Page 9

Lees-McRae College: More than a century of educational trailblazing for diverse careers and environments,” according to the college’s mission statement. source of While it began informally entertainment as a multigrade school in in Banner Elk, 1900, the college was not Lees-McRae Col- officially founded as being lege is a four-year school for an institute for higher eduhigher education, located cation until 1931, after the only minutes from one of death of its founder, Rev. the most popular ski resorts Edgar Tufts in 1923. in North Carolina, Beech “Lees-McRae’s impact on Mountain Resort. the entire High Country, Lees-McRae strives especially Banner Elk and to “educate and inspire Avery County, is signifistudents to approach life cant,” said Lees-McRae and work from a creative, President Lee King. “The collaborative and critical SEE COLLEGE ON PAGE 20 perspective in preparation

STAFF REPORT

EDITOR@AVERYJOURNAL. COM

A

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

Lees McRae College students skiing in Banner Elk in the 1930s.

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High Country heaven: Real estate opportunities abound in Banner Elk (828) 898-3808 bannerelk.evrealestate. com Specializing in the housing market within the Elk River Club and Banner Elk area, Engel & Völkers’ team of professionals can help you find a home that offers all the amenities that Banner Elk residents come to enjoy, including the local culture, fine dining and Avery County’s educational institutions.

BY NEAL FALVEY NEAL.FALVEY@ AVERYJOURNAL.COM The perfect mountain village resides right here in the United States. The long history, the community engagement, high-performance education and the High Country climate gives this town all the advantages individuals and families are looking for. Banner Elk is a town that is always growing and evolving.

Recently, it has increasingly become one of the most sought-after real estate markets in the state due to the High Country experiencing an unprecedented housing boom during the past year. As its popularity keeps growing, homeowners are finding out that Banner Elk is the perfect place to settle down for all four seasons of the year.

The real estate market in Banner Elk has been trending upward for quite some time. A steady tourism outlet and a growing population offer both the mountainside luxury and the quaint small-town vibe that folks yearn for. New development areas like Eagles Nest have provided some of the opportunities to build, while other mountain homes give the nature-latent feel for outdoor enthusiasts.

Recently Banner Elk’s center specifically has witnessed the highest mar-

Antler Realty

FILE PHOTO

The Greater Banner Elk area is ripe with a variety of real estate opportunities for those interested in investing in a new home.

ket appreciation. Active properties range in value and demonstrate positive metrics. While the area boasts ski mountains in the winter and hiking in the summer, Banner Elk is sure to attract all four seasons.

The following is a list of only a few out of the many real estate brokers in town. To learn more about the current real estate market in Banner Elk, call the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, who can direct you to the ideal realtor

to fit your needs, at (828) 898-8395.

Bear Real Estate 120 Azalea Cir. SE (828) 260-5338 bearrealestate.com Bear Real Estate can get you connected to a realtor to help you find your dream home in the High Country. Bear Real Estate offers homes in the Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Blowing Rock, Valle Crucis, Elk River, Newland, Crooked Creek and Banner Elk

areas.

Eagles Nest Realty 51 Eagles Nest Lane (866) 399-5016 eaglesnestatbannerelk. com The homes located in the Eagles Nest area are perched atop a mountainside overlooking the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Immersed in a natural landscape, many Eagles Nest homes are recently constructed and offer the perfect place to retire or escape.

146 Shawneehaw Ave. South (828) 898-3111 antlerrealty.net Featuring a team with decades of experience under their belt, Antler Realty is sure to help you find a home to enjoy for years on end in the Banner Elk area. Antler Realty is customer focused and can work out a deal in the seller and buyer’s favor.

Banner Elk Realty 161 Silver Springs Drive (828) 898-9756 bannerelkrealty.com Banner Elk’s oldest real estate brokerage firm, Banner Elk Realty has more than 40 years of experience working in the local real estate market and can help those looking to make Banner Elk home by assisting in choosing and selecting the perfect piece of property.

Engel & Völkers 610 Banner Elk Highway

Ogle Realty 444 S Beech Mountain Pkwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 789-9426 oglerealty.com An experienced firm in the High Country, Ogle Realty maintains a friendly and supportive team specializing in finding a property that suits the buyer. Prioritizing interests and needs make Ogle Realty a superb choice when deciding to buy or sell.

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

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Shopping local in Banner Elk around the world, including regional and American Craft Council artists, Hardin Fine Jewelry has a wide collection of gems, diamonds and unique pieces.

BY MARISA MECKE MARISA.MECKE@ MOUNTAINTIMES.COM Banner Elk offers a wide array of beautiful mountain views and outdoor destinations, but both indoors and outdoors it is a shopping destination. Whether it’s the proximity to farms bringing fresh produce to the Avery County Farmers’ Market or local art inspired by the mountain scenery, Banner Elk has a variety of unique shops and goods to offer for any visitor to the High Country.

ANTIQUES AND CONSIGNMENT Those Were the Days 3440 Tynecastle Highway, Unit C (828) 898-5505 With more than 4,000 square feet of space, there is something for everyone in this antique mall. Whether it be glassware, furniture, collectors’ coins, vintage toys, records or more, Those Were the Days has variety. Focusing on the 1940s and 1950s, Those Were the Days is a treasure trove for those looking to wander the store and find surprises around each corner.

The Twisted Twig Antiques and Accents 100 High Country Square (619) 964-0038 Visitors to Twisted Twig will find antiques shoulder-to-shoulder with handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces. Furniture, wall decor, pottery and more, visitors can find any sort of beautiful home decor at the

PHOTO BY MARISA MECKE

Visitors mill about the different stands of the Avery County Farmers Market in Banner Elk.

Twisted Twig.

Banner Elk Consignment Cottage 414 Shawneehaw Ave S (828) 898-5733 Walking into Banner Elk Consignment Cottage is like walking into a dream house.

Specializing in classic furniture, art and homegoods, the high-quality, curated collection has pieces fit for every room of a house.

CLOTHING BJ’s Resort Wear 145 Main St W Those looking to dress as beautifully as the Banner Elk scenery are in luck at BJ’s Resort Wear. With the latest in ready-to-wear women’s clothes, BJ’s has high-end, boutique offerings and has been serving the Banner Elk community for more than 34 years.

The Dande Lion 4501 Tynecastle Highway #12 (828) 898-3566 Fun boutique fashion can be found at the Dande Lion, which offers shoes, accessories, gifts and more and specializes in personal shopping.

Banner Elk Shirt Company 3175 Tynecastle Highway (828) 998-4007 bannerelkshirtcompany. com Whether buying a personalized Woolly Worm Festival shirt or a memento of a vacation in the High Country, Banner Elk Shirt Company has a wide variety for every season and every member of the family.

Opened as a family business in 1987, the company has a wide variety of apparel and gifts.

Base Camp BE 441 Shawneehaw Ave. (706) 346-4509 Any equipment a skilled outdoorsmen or beginner could need can be found at Base Camp BE, located in its distinctive red caboose in downtown Banner Elk. Shoppers looking for gear for hiking, backpacking, camping, paddling, cycling, climbing, skiing, snowboarding, fly fishing or any other outdoor activity under the sun need look no further!

JEWELRY Hardin Fine Jewelry 920 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-4653 hardinfinejewelry.com For high quality jewelry, look no further than Hardin Fine Jewelry. With one-ofa-kind pieces from artisans

buying gifts for loved ones or indulging your finer tastes, Erick’s has great prices for a large selection of cheeses and specialty foods.

Banner Elk Olive Oil and Balsamics SPECIALTY FOODS 155 Banner Road SW Avery County (828) 898-4441 Farmers’ Market For those who know fine 185 Azalea Cir SE dining is in the quality of averycountyfarmersmar- the ingredients, Banner Elk ket.net Olive Oil and Balsamics is One of the perks of life sure to please with a large in the High Country is the selection of imported olive proximity to fresh, locally oils and vinegars, as well as grown food. This seasonal, salts, herb mixes and more. weekly farmers’ market has With more oil and vinegar organic and conventionally flavors than you thought grown fruits and vegetables, possible, there is something homemade baked goods as for everybody. Additionally, well as jams, jellies, honey, ceramics and other culinary maple syrup, eggs and even accessories are sold to uplive houseplants. Each week grade the kitchen experipromises new offerings and ence a little more. local flavor at the Old Banner Elk Elementary School.

HOME AND GARDEN Bayou General Store Banner Elk Soap & 130 Main St E Candle Co. (828) 898-8952 3221 Tynecastle Highway Fine wines, local brews (828) 898-4006 and more are stocked at bannerelksoapcandleco.

Bayou General Store. Gourmet foods, gift times and lo- com For those who can’t get cal goods are also available, and the general store offers enough of the smell of fresh mountain air, there’s “wine amnesty,” where a variety of fragrances to customers can purchase a be brought home from bottle of wine at retail cost Banner Elk Soap & Candle to enjoy with their meal in Co. Homemade candles the Bayou restaurant at no and soaps, as well as bath extra charge. bombs, salts, mugs and Erick’s Cheese and more, will upgrade any Wine home, kitchen or bathroom.

4004 Highway 105 Unit The Great Train 10 Robbery (828) 898-9242 2120 Tynecastle Highway erickscheeseandwine.com (828) 898-8645 Fine wines and cheeses gtrobbery.com from around the world, An “eclectic emporium” gifts, cocktail additions and more await at Erick’s SEE SHOP ON PAGE 13 Cheese and Wine. Whether

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

SHOP

65 Orchard Lane (828) 394-9663 rustikbyunderwood.com Rustik by Underwood sells high-quality, handcrafted natural wood furniture. With a variety of woods to choose from, Rustik by Underwood can specially design a variety of tables, benches and other furniture to fit your lifestyle, blending practical functionality with artisan craftsmanship.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

of contemporary, timeless and rustic furnishings, there’s plenty of home decor, gifts, artwork, jewelry, apparel and more to go around at the Great Train Robbery. Located in the historic Banner Elk Glove Factory, the large space features a range of gifts, furniture and more.

Mountaineer Garden Center Florist and Greenhouses 1757 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-5219 mountaingardencenter. com For the green thumbs, Mountaineer Garden Center is a one-stop shop for all things garden and house plant related. With a variety of native and ornamental

Mountain Times Publications • Page 13

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

PETS PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Banner Elk Soap and Candle Company opened its doors to the community on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2020.

shrubs, flowers, garden plants, houseplants and soil, the business offers gardening goods for each season.

Creative Interiors

4501 Tynecastle Highway Unit 4 (828) 898-9636 Creative Interiors is an interior design firm and retail shop. Selling a variety

of home goods such as wall coverings, fabrics, furniture and accessories, this shop will give southern comfort a new meaning in your home.

Rustik by Underwood

My Best Friend’s Bakery 176 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-5625 mybestfriendsbakery. com Shopping for everyone in the home includes fourlegged best friends. My Best Friend’s Bakery is a

doggie wonderland, filled with all the foods, treats, eco-friendly toys, beds and quality products for dogs and cats a pet owner could ever desire.

SKIING & OUTDOORS OUTFITTERS Alpine Ski Center 3150 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9701 alpineskicenter.com Edge of the World 394 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-9550 edgeoworld.com Extreme Snowboard and Skis 3071 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-7669 www.extremenc.com Ski Country Sports 3149 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9786 www.skicountrysports. com

Page 14 • Mountain Times Publications

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Banner Elk: Culinary Catapult of the Carolinas

BY NEAL FALVEY NEAL.FALVEY@ AVERYJOURNAL.COM Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a bevy of cuisine choices in the Town of Banner Elk. From the finest of fine to the best of the burgers, the culinary options in Banner Elk have everyone covered.

Long-standing restaurants have anchored dining in the town while new places bring fresh plates to the palette.

No matter your craving, it can be satisfied within the town limits. Some restaurants do have seasonal hours, so call or check online for full details along with menu options.

Artisanal 1200 Dobbins Road (828) 898-5395 Daily menu changes reflect the freshness of the choices. Upscale and elegant, Artisanal has the finest ingredients. The restaurant takes pride in creating memorable experiences for their guests. Open seasonally, call for hours.

Banner Elk Café and Lodge 324 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-4040 Settled in the heart of the downtown area, the Café is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s hungry face. Tourists and college students love to get their grub from this long-standing Banner Elk treasure. Certain window seats even have a view of the famous elk statue across the street. The Lodge Espresso Bar adds a nice coffee house feel to compliment the mountain dining environment.

Barra Sports Bar

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

Louisiana Purchase on Main, where the Cajun- and French-inspired cuisine will spice up your life.

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

Banner Elk Cafe is a staple in the downtown district of the town. Stop in for a true mountain feel and meal.

140 Azalea Circle (828) 898-7727 With a plethora of flat0screen televisions across a

leather couch-filled room, Barra offers the classic wooden bar atmosphere to sit back, enjoy an adult bev-

erage and watch the latest game in style.

Bayou Smokehouse and Grill

130 Main St. East (828) 898-8952 A Cajun-style good time is right in town with everything a guest would need to eat, play and shop. Southern-style food is accompanied by a general store where sauces, local crafts and cooking ingredients can be purchased.

Bella’s Breakfast 142 Main Street (828)-898-2594 Serving guests for breakfast and lunch at affordable prices, this family friendly scratch breakfast is perfect before a big day on the trails or the slopes.

Bella’s Italian Restaurant 3585 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9022 Bella’s provides the traditional neighborhood Italian restaurant environment with lasagna to chicken parm to

pizza. A wide array of crowd pleasers and more intricate Italian favorites are delicious as they are delicioso.

Bodegas Kitchen and Wine Bar 488 Main Street West (828) 898-7773 Bodegas specialize in Caribbean-inspired dishes with a special Caribbean brunch served on Sundays. Tacos, sandwiches and plates solidify this joint as a perfect lunch and dinner.

Cam Ranh Bay 110 High Country Square (828) 898-4121 The Vietnamese and Japanese culinary specialists offer a modern variety of specials from the East.

A true gem in a plaza, Cam Ranh Bay has a beautiful exterior to go with an amazing spread of substantial dishes.

Chef’s Table at Sorrento’s 140 Azalea Circle (828) 898-1940 The Banner Elk specialty contains an eclectic menu of dishes from all over the world. A friendly staff and award winning chef grants this food source as a favorite among locals and guests of the town.

China House 3581 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-3533 With buffet, dine-in and take out options, this restaurant has a wide variety of dishes for any kind of diner.

When you simply crave that Chinese food taste, China House has you covered.

Dunn’s Deli 134 Main St. West (828) 898-6731 Mike Dunn, a committed community member, makes SEE DINE ON PAGE 15

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

DINE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

sandwiches to order with only the best ingredients.

With an easy-to-find location and classic deli favorites, Dunn’s is always on the list of top eateries in town.

Fred and Larry’s Coffee Shop 3591 Tynecastle Highway (828) 367-2110 In addition to an ever-updated list of coffees and other beverages, Fred and Larry’s maintains a relaxed atmosphere with open-mic nights on Friday and Saturday. Whether it is early in the morning or a late night pick up, guests can find their fix here.

Louisiana Purchase Food and Spirits 171 Main St. East (828) 898-5656 Since 1984, Louisiana Purchase has provided Banner Elk residents and guests with an assortment of Cajun, Creole and French cuisine.

Seasonal selections and an award winning wine list give variety to an already robust menu.

Mountain Grounds Coffee and Tea Company Suite 10, 3390 Highway

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

Stonewalls’ elegant dining experience is a must in the town of Banner Elk.

105 (828) 898-5878 Looking up at Grandfather Mountain, Mountain Grounds offers a lodge-style shop with a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for warming up on a winter’s day or relaxing after a long mountain excursion.

Highlander’s Grill and Tavern 4527 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-9613 Highlander’s offers a convenient stop where visitors can enjoy lunch, dinner and drinks without any hassle.

With a superb menu and

friendly staff, this place is worth the stop.

The Painted Fish Café and Beer Bar 2941 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-6800 Great food with fun beers and amazing wines provides a great combination for a night out. Guests can always expect familiar dishes with a twist offering an exciting take on cuisine.

The Pedalin’ Pig 4235 Highway 105 South (828) 898-7500 Opening its doors in 2014, the gourmet flair gives the smokey, southern favorites

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

Cam Ranh Bay offers both Vietnamese- and Japanese-style cuisine. A great atmosphere and great food will satisfy everyone.

that everyone will love.

Ribs, pork belly tacos and everything in between the grill. This menu aims to please. Local ingredients and signature sauces fire up the smoked meats in this can’t-miss venue.

Mountain Times Publications • Page 15

Puerto Nuevo 2120 Tynecastle Highway (828) 898-3332 Mexican cuisine complemented by a full bar and stylish environment makes Puerto Nuevo a great stop.

Complete with a banquet hall for large events, this Mexican restaurant offers a genuine dining experience.

Reid’s Café and Catering 4004 Highway 105, Suite 8 (828) 898-9200 A beautiful space and a great wine list collaborate with an ever-changing menu. Featuring traditional and homemade favorites Reid’s provides café experience and catering.

Sorrento’s Italian Bistro 140 Azalea Circle (828) 898-5214 Although the Sorrento’s

menu is a classic array of regional Italian delights, the bistro takes special pride in accommodating large groups for events and parties.

Stonewalls Restaurant 344 Shawneehaw Avenue (828) 898-5550 A longtime staple of Banner Elk dining, Stonewalls has developed a reputation around 30 years for its prime rib, other specialty steaks and extensive salad bar. This local favorite will satisfy any elegant dining craving.

Valle De Bravo Mexican Grill 4501 Tynecastle Highway Unit 1 (828) 898-4949 Offering authentic Mexican dishes, Valle De Bravo has a variety of menu items available from savory and mild to hot and spicy.

Page 16 • Mountain Times Publications

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Avery County’s Catering

The High Country’s Best Choice for Event Catering • • • • •

Creativity, passion and culinary excellence Parties of all sizes In-home catering Fully insured and licensed Largest mobile kitchen in the High Country

828-898-5550

344 Shawneehaw Ave. South, Banner Elk stonewallsrestaurant.com

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Best

DINING | CATERING LODGING | EVENT VENUE

Event Venue

Lodging

The High Country’s Best Vacation Rentals • • •

•

•

One main lodge and three cabins with mountain views 1-4 bedrooms available Event barn, picnic pavilion, open field, meandering streams, and ponds all onsite Located in the heart of Sugar and Beech Mountains, with proximity to all High Country attractions Pet-friendly

828-860-3673 828-898-3115

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com

Mountain Times Publications • Page 17

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

The High Country’s Best Space for Gatherings • • • • • •

Vacations, weddings, family reunions, church events, and business retreats Newly built barn with 1,700 sq. ft., and 18-ft. high ceilings Barn equipped with a complete catering kitchen 1,750 sq. ft. outdoor pavilion with fire pit Lodge and cabin rentals Fields, streams, and ponds

828-860-3673 828-898-3115

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk thebarnatcornerstone.com

Page 18 • Mountain Times Publications

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory Attractions And Activities Apple Hill Farm Contact Person: Lee Rankin Email: Applehillfarmnc@Gmail.com Address: 400 Apple Hill Rd., Banner Elk, Nc 28604 Phone: 828-963-1662 Website: Http://www.applehillfarmnc. com Banner Elk Book Exchange Contact Person: Donna Dicks Email: dbdicks@skybest.com Address: 357 Old Turnpike Rd, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-6667 Website: http://www.bannerelkbookexchange.com/ Banner House Museum/The Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation Contact Person: Meredith Olan Email: bannerhousemuseum@yahoo. com Address: 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Rd., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-3634 Fax: 828-898-3634 Website: http://www.bannerhousemuseum.org Camp Big Contact Person: Stacy Stern Email: Fun@CampBigforAdults.com Address: 6993 Hickory Nut Gap, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 888-613-2267 Website: http://campbigforadults. com/ Cycle4Life Email: doug@cycle4life.com Address: 150 Forest Run, Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 Website: https://cycle4life.com/ Elk River Club Contact Person: Toni Littleton Email: toni@elkriverclubnc.com Address: 1000 Clubhouse Dr., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9773 Fax: 828-898-6118 Website: http://elkriverclubnc.com/ Ensemble Stage Contact Person: Lisa Lamont Email: info@ensemblestage.com Address: 182 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-414-1844 Website: http://www.ensemblestage. com/ FORUM at Lees-McRae College Contact Person: Elizabeth Roberts Email: forum@lmc.edu Address: PO Box 649, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-8748 Fax: 828-898-8716 Website: http://go.lmc.edu/community/forum.htm Grandfather Mountain Contact Person: Katie Casella Email: katie2@grandfather.com Address: 2033 Blowing Rock Hwy., Linville, NC 28646 Phone: 828-733-2013 Fax: 828-733-2608 Website: http://www.grandfather. com/ High Mountain Expeditions Contact Person: Bill Leonard Email: info@highmountainexpeditions.com Address: 3149 Tynecastle Hwy., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-264-7368 Fax: 828-262-0572

Website: http://www.highmountainexpeditions.com Holston Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center Contact: Jim Austin Email: info@HolstonCenter.org Address: 6993 Hickory Nut Gap Rd, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 844-465-7866 Website: http://www.HolstonCenter. org Mountain Warriors UTV Tours Contact person: Carson and Regina Gordon Email: info@offroadmountainwarriors. com Address: 4393 Elk Park Hwy., Elk Park, NC 28622 Phone: 828-386-7060 Website: http://www.offroadmountainwarriors.com Sugar Mountain Resort, Inc. Contact Person: Kim Jochl Email: marketing@skisugar.com Address: 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4521 Website: http://www.skisugar.com ToddsCalendar.com Contact Person: Todd & Miel Mortensen Email: miel@toddscalendar.com Address: 1990 Big Hill Rd., Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-964-5405 Website: http://www.toddscalendar. com Banking and Investments First Community Bank Contact Person: Mike Clark, Branch Leader Address: 115 Main St. E., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5100 High Country Wealth Management Contact Person: Jeff Davis Email: jdavis@highcountrwealth.com Address: 1900 Tynecastle Highway, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-3993 Fax: 828-898-3996 Website: http://www.highcountrywealth.com L.E.A.D. Investment Partners, LLC Contact Person: Lisa Renko, Managing Member Email: lisa@teamldr.com Education Lees-McRae College Contact Person: Blaine Hansen (VP Planning & External Relations) Email: hansenb@lmc.edu Address: 191 Main St., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5241 Fax: 828-898-8814 Website: http://www.lmc.edu/ Mayland Community College Contact Person: Melissa Phillips Email: mcphillips@mayland.edu Address: 785 Cranberry St., Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-733-5883 Fax: 828-733-8877 Website: http://www.mayland.edu/ Health and Fitness Appalachian Home Care Contact Person: Ellen Harrell Email: ellen@apphomecare.com Address: 7929 NC Hwy 105 Suite B,,

Boone NC 29607 Phone: 828-963-8233 Website: www.apphomecare.com Appalachian Brian Estates Contact Person: Anna Wilson Email: appalachian@choice-health. net Address: 163 Shadowline Dr., Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-264-1006 Fax: 828-265-4738 Website: http://www.univhealthcare. com Banner Elk Pharmacy Contact Person: Jay Ogburn & Hannah Stewart Email: b4121@skybest.com Address: 110 Park Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4271 Beech Mountain Club Contact Person: Brian Barnes Email: beechgm@yahoo.com Address: 114 Clubhouse Road, Beech Mountain, NC 28604 Phone: 828-387-4208 Fax: 828-387-2204 Website: https://beechmtn.club/ Cranberry House Memory Care Contact Person: Timothy Jenkins, Executive Director Email: director@newlandseniors.com Address: 6215 N. US Highway 19, Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-733-5558 Website: https://newlandseniors.com/ High Country Caregivers Contact Person: Jacob Willis Email: info@highcountrycaregivers. com Address: 895 State Farm Rd. #400-B, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-832-6366 Website: http://wwwlhighcountrycaregivers.com Life Care Center of Banner Elk Contact Person: Aubrie Bunton Email: aubrie_bunton@lcca.com Address: 185 Norwood Hollow Rd., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5136 Fax: 828-898-8426 Website: http://lifecarecenterofbannerelk.com/ Schaffer, Carol, DMD, PA, Dentistry Contact Person: Carol Schaffer Email: cschaffer@apprhs.org Address: 436 Hospital Drive Suite 105 Sloop Medical Office Plaza, Linville, NC 28646 Phone: 828-737-7722 Fax: 828-737-7931 Website: http://carolschaffer.com/ Williams YMCA of Avery County Contact Person: Trey Oakley Email: treyo@ymcaavery.org Address: 436 Hospital Drive, Linville, NC 28646 Phone: 828-737-5500 Website: http://ymcaavery.org/ Lodging Azaleia Hospitality Contact Person: William Wyman Yelton Email: wybeck7@gmail.com Phone: 828-430-6578 Banner Elk Mountain Cabins Contact Person: Marsha Ruppard Email: bannerelkmtncabins@gmail. com Address: P.O. Box 1981, Banner Elk, NC 28604

Phone: 828-387-1209 Website: http://www.bannerelkmtncabins.com Best Western Mountain Lodge Contact Person: Shannon Maness, Gen. Mgr. Email: shannonmaness81@gmail.com Address: 1615 Tynecastle Hwy., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4571 Website: http://www.bestwesternbannerelk.com Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals Contact Person: Casey Ellison, Gen. Mgr. Email: Info@BlueRidgeRentals.com Address: 2464 US Highway 421 South, Boone NC 28607 Phone: 800-237-7975 Website: https://www.blueridgerentals.com/ Carolina Cabin Rentals, Inc. Contact Person: John White Email: Inquiries@CarolinaCabinRentals.com Address: 197 Old US Highway 321, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Phone: 828-295-6000 Website: http://www.carolinacabinrentals.com/ Cornerstone Cabins and Lodge of Banner Elk Contact Person: Ray & Kim Schrader Email: ccabins@att.net Address: 64 Cornerstone Cir., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-3115 Website: https://cornerstonerentals. com/ Little Main St. Inn & Suites Contact Person: Phil & Lori Dean Email: Littlemainstreet@gmail.com Address: 607 E. Main St., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-6109 Website: http://littlemainstreet.com/ Mountain Retreats Realty Contact Person: Diane Martin Email: diane@ncmountainretreats. com Address: P.O. Box 2437, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-6325 Fax: 828-898-7664 Website: http://www.ncmountainretreats.com/ Serenity Haven Cabin Rentals Contact Person: Floyd & Patsy Townsend Email: scamper@skybest.com Address: 676 Old Turnpike Rd., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5762 Website: http://serenityhaven.net Sugar Ski and Country Club HOA, Inc. Contact Person: Hope Harvey Email: info@sugarmountain.com Address: 100 Sugar Ski Dr., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9784 Website: http://www.sugarmountain. com The Azalea Inn Contact Person: Terri McNay Email: terri@azaleainnbb.com Address: 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-260-9528 Website: https://theazaleainnbb.com/ The Banner Elk Inn, B&B, and Cottages Contact Person: Beverly Lait

Email: bannerelkinn@skybest.com Address: 407 E. Main St., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-6223 Fax: 828-898-6224 Website: http://www.bannerelkinn. com The Banner Elk Retreat Contact Person: Daron Bridwell Email: Vacation@TheBannerElkRetreat.com Address: 4521 Hickory Nut Gap Rd. Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 407-920-2675 Website: https://airbnb.com/h/thebannerelkretreat The Lodge at River Run Contact Person: Bobbie Parks Email: thelodgeatriverrun@gmail.com Address: 2981 Banner Elk Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4709 Website: https://thelodgeatriverrun. com/ The Old Greer House Contact Person: Claire Kimmel Email: kimmel@skybest.com Address: 1688 Balm Hwy., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-2843 Website: https://www.theoldgreerhouse.com/ The Perry House Bed & Breakfast Contact Person: Mike Dunn Email: perryhouse@skybest.com Address: 153 Klonteska Dr., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 877-806-4280 Website: www.perryhouse.com/ White Wolf Lodge & Holy Smokes BBQ Contact Person: Trisha Moore — GM Email: wwlodge3363@gmail.com Address: 3363 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-387-4200 Website: www.whitewolflodge.org Municipal Town of Banner Elk Contact Person: Rick Owen Email: manager@townofbannerelk.org Address: 200 Park Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5398 Website: http://www.townofbannerelk.org Town of Banner Elk TDA Contact Person: Craig Distl, PR representative Email: CraigD411@gmail.com Phone: 704-466-3744 Town of Seven Devils TDA Contact Person: Debbie Powers Email: townfinance@sevendevils.net Address: 157 Seven Devils Road, Seven Devils, NC 28604 Phone: 828-963-5343 Website: http://sevendevils.net Nonprofit Organizations Community Avery County Habitat for Humanity Contact Person: Jillian Rosato Email: jillian@averycohfh.org Address: P.O. Box 1016, Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-733-1909 Website: http://www.averycohfh.org/ Avery County Humane Society Contact Person: Bruce Malfatone Email: averyhumaneed@gmail.com Address: P.O. Box 1213, Newland,

NC 28657 Phone: 828-733-2333 Fax: 828-733-9937 Website: http://www.averyhumane. org Children’s Hope Alliance/Grandfather Home for Children Contact Person: Madison Cornwell Email: mlcornwell@childrenshopealliance.org Address: P.O. Box 98, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5465 Fax: 828-898-8513 Website: https://www.childrenshopealliance.org/ Feeding Avery Families Contact Person: Dick Larson Email: feedingaveryfamilies@gmail. com Address: 500 Pineola St., Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-783-8506 Website: http://www.feedingaveryfamilies.org/ High Country Breast Cancer Foundation Contact Person: Irene Sawyer Email: irene@hcbcf.org Address: P.O. Box 1029, Blowing Rock, NC 28607 Phone: 614-928-6544 Website: http://highcountrybreastcancerfoundation.org/ High Country Caregivers Contact Person: Jacob Willis Email: Info@highcountrycaregivers. com Address: 895 State Farm Rd, #400-B, Boone NC. 28607 Phone: 828-832-6366 Website: https://www.highcountrycaregivers.com/ Hospitality House of Northwest North Carolina Contact Person: Todd Carter Email: info@hosphouse.org Address: P.O. Box 309, Boone, NC 28607 / 338 Brook Hollow Rd., Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-264-1237 Fax: 828-265-2541 Website: http://www.hospitalityhouseofboone.org/ Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk Contact Person: Ann Swinkola Email: agswinkola@skybest.com Address: P.O. Box 2321, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9044 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ BEKiwanis/ Reserve II HOA Contact Person: Bill Carfagno Email: Reserve2hoa@aol.com Spirit Ride Therapeutic Riding Center Contact Person: Patty Adams Email: SpiritRideNC@gmail.com Address: 7156 NC Highway 194S, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 904-704-2244 Website: www.spiritridenc.org/ Sugar Mountain Tourism Development Authority (TDA) Contact Person: Mary Kate Litchfield, Tourism Development Coordinator Email: tda@seesugar.com Address: 251 Dick Trundy Lane Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9292

SEE DIRECTORY ON PAGE 19

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

DIRECTORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 Website: https://seesugar.com/ The Town of Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority (TDA) Contact Person: Nancy Owen Email: nowen@townofbannerelk.org Address: 200 Park Avenue, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5398 Website: https://www.bannerelk.com/ WAMY Community Action Contact Person: Melissa Soto, Executive Director Email: info@wamycommunityaction. org Address: 723 Cranberry Street, Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 800-571-9269 Website: https://www.wamycommunityaction.org/ Churches Banner Elk Presbyterian Church Contact Person: Alisa Ballard Email: admin@bannerelkpresbyterian. org Address: 420 College Dr., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5406 Fax: 828-898-7615 Website: http://bannerelkpresbyterian.org/ Banner Elk United Methodist Church Contact Person: Rev. Theodore “Ted” Henry Email: THenry@wnccumc.net Address: 486 College Dr., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-974-3699 Website: http://bannerelkumc.org/ Real Estate Anderson Mountain Realty & Rentals, Inc. Contact Person: Wendy Raines Email: andersonmountainrentals@ gmail.com Address: 184 N Water St #13, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-963-4091 Website: www.rentourcabins.com Antler Realty Contact Person: Jim Edsall Email: jim@antlerrealty.net Address: 146 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-3111 Fax: 828-898-2393 Website: http://www.antlerrealty.net Banner Elk Realty Contact Person: John Davis, III Email: davisjd@skybest.com Address: 161 Silver Springs Drive, Suite #2, Banner Elk, NC 28604 P.O. Box 336, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9756 / Cell: 828260-1550 Fax: 828-898-4898 Website: http://www.bannerelkrealty. com Bear Real Estate Contact Person: Kim Hyatt Email: kim@bearrealestate.com Address: 120 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC 28604 P.O. Box 2498, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-260-5338 Website: https://www.bearrealestate. com/ Blue Ridge Realty and Investments Contact Person: Todd Rice and Bill

Aceto Email: info@brri.net Address: 110 Main St. Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-737-3100 Website: http://blueridgerealty.net/ Eagles Nest Realty, LLC Contact Person: Mary Sue Street Email: mstreet@eaglesnestrealtyllc. com Address: 51 Eagles Nest Trail, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 800-770-9311 Website: http://eaglesnestatbannerelk.com/ Elk River Property Owners Association, Inc. Contact Person: Bob Littleton Email: elkriverpoa@elkriverpoa.com Address: 643 Banner Elk Hwy., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9791 Fax: 828-898-4856 Website: http://www.elkriverpoa.com/ Elk River Realty, Inc. Contact Person: Rick Foster/Spencer Robbins Email: rick@elkriverclub.com Address: 539 Banner Elk Hwy., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9777 Website: http://www.elkriverclub. com/ Engel & Volkers Banner Elk Contact Person: Jami Prince Email: Jami.Prince@evusa.com Address: 610 Banner Elk Highway, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-3808 Website: bannerelk.evusa.com/en/ The Farm at Banner Elk Contact Person: Mark Lehmann Email: thefarmbenc@skybest.com Address: Dobbins Rd./Farm Loop Rd., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4416 Website: http://www.thefarmatbannerelk.com/ Harry Berry Realty, Inc. Contact Person: Harry Berry Email: harry.hbrealty@gmail.com Address: 3812 Cleveland Street, Hollywood, FL 33021 Phone: 954-816-6521 Fax: 954-862-3087 Website: www.harryberryrealty.com/ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Contact Person: Sarah Whitfield and Paige Taylor Email: paige.taylor@premiersir.com Address: 3990 US Hwy 105 South, #3, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5022 Fax: 828-898-3695 Website: http://www.premiersothebysrealty.com/ Silver Springs Farms, LLC Contact Person: George Meyer Jr. & Bev Payne Email: bev@skybest.com Address: 600 Old Turnpike Rd., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-6896 Website: http://bannerelkhomes.com The Summit Group of the Carolinas Contact Person: Allison Phillips Email: summitgroup@skybest.com Address: 415 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-3500 Website: www.summitgrouprealestate.com Sugar Mountain Realty, Inc. Contact Person: Dereka Plyler Email: resv@staysugar.com

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN Address: 106 Sugar Mountain Dr., Sugar Mtn, NC 28604 Phone: 800-545-9475 Fax: 898-8620 Website: http://www.staysugar.com/ Sugartop Resort Condominium Association Contact Person: Dennis Lacey Email: sales@sugartop.com Address: 303 Sugar Top Dr., Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5226 Fax: 828-898-8627 Website: http://www.sugartop.com/ The Vistas at Banner Elk Contact Person: Kent Smith Email: bevistas@gmail.com Address: 1873-A Penny Lane, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-3380 Website: http://www.vistasatbannerelk.com Restaurants & Breweries & Wineries Aramark- Lees McRae Dining Contact Person: David Masonoff Email: masonoff-david@aramark.com Address: PO Box 116, Banner Elk, NC Phone: 828-898-8088 Website: http://www.aramark.com Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery Contact Person: Les Broussard Email: skifamily04@charter.net Address: Hwy. 184, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4040 Website: www.bannerelkcafe.com Banner Elk Winery & Villa Contact Person: Emily Billings Email: emily@bannerelkwinery.com Address: 135 Deer Run Ln., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9090 Website: http://www.bannerelkwinery. com Bayou Smokehouse and Grill/ Bayou Store Contact Person: Winston & David Ammann Email: bayouwinston@aol.com Address: 130 Main St. E., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-8952 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ BayouSmokehouse/ BE Scooped Contact Person: Bailey Webb Email: bescoopednc@gmail.com Address: 144 Azalea Circle SE, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 239-222-2175 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ Be-Scooped-421793065276163/ Bodegas Kitchen and Wine Bar Contact Person: Paul Alcazar Email: palcazar@BodegasBE.com Address: 496 West Main St, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Website: http://www.BodegasBE.com Carolina Barbeque Contact Person: Dave Calvert Email: dcalvert509@gmail.com Address: 500 Pineola St, Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-737-0700 Fax: 828-737-0708 Website: http://www.carolinabbqnewland.com/ Dunn’s Deli Contact Person: Mike Dunn Email: mike@dunns-deli.com Address: 134 Main Street East, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-6731

Website: www.getdunnsdeli.com/ Famous Louise’s Rockhouse Restaurant Contact Person: Shirley Yager Email: yager@boone.net Address: 23175 Linville Falls Hwy, Linville Falls, NC 28647 Phone: 828-765-2720 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ louisesrockhouse One Shot Cafe Contact Person: Sandi McPhetridge Email: oneshotcafe.be@gmail.com Address:10882 NC Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk, NC 28064 Phone: 828-967-0225 Reid’s Cafe and Catering Co. Contact Person: Tina Houston Email: reidscateringco@gmail.com Address: 4004 Highway 105 S. Ste.8, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9200 Fax: 828-268-9600 Website: www.reidscafeandcatering. com Sorrento’s Italian Bistro, Chef’s Table, and Barra in Banner Elk Village Contact Person: Nicole Palazzo Email: trickynkky@yahoo.com Address: 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5214 Website: http://bannerelkvillage.com/ Stonewalls Restaurant and Banner Elk Olive Oil & Balsamics Contact Person: Scott Garland Email: scottgarlandevents@yahoo. com Address: 344 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5550 Website: http://www.stonewallsrestaurant.com Retail Shops Art Galleries & Artists Alta Vista Gallery Contact Person: Maris Hyde Email: altavista@skybest.com Address: 2839 Broadstone Rd., Valle Crucis, NC 28691 Phone: 828-963-5247 Website: http://www.altavistagallery. com The Art Cellar Gallery Contact Person: Mike and Pam McKay Email: info@artcellaronline.com Address: 920 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5175 Website: http://www.artcellargallery. com/ BE Artists Gallery Contact Person: Dick Larson Email: art@BEartistsgallery.com Location: Rooms 4 and 5 Cultural Arts Center / Historic Banner Elk School, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-260-5389 Website: www.beartistsgallery.com/ Avery Knifeworks Contact Person: Raleigh Avery Email: averyknifeworks@gmail.com Location: 2780 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC Phone: 828-439-3996 Website: https://www.averyknifeworks.com/ Christian A Little Slice of Heaven Contact Person: Sandi Dascoulias, Owner Email: Heavenlyslice2021@gmail.com Address: 100 High Country Square

Mountain Times Publications • Page 19 #68 Banner Elk NC 28604 Phone: 828-616-0810 Website: https://alittlesliceofheavenbe.com/ Garden Centers & Flower Shops Callista Flower Co. Flowers, Home Goods & Gifts Contact Person: Kristi Turbyfill, Owner Email: hello@callistaflowerco.com Address: 441 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk NC 28604 Phone: 828-742-1818 Website: https://www.callistaflowerco.com/ Mountaineer Garden Center Contact Person: Sara & Allen Gregory Email: mgcinc1986@yahoo.com Address: 1735 Tynecastle Hwy., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5219 Fax: 828-898-5196 Website: http://mountaineergardencenter.com/ Home Furnishings Banner Elk Consignment Cottage Contact Person: Susan Brown Email: consign@skybest.com Address: 414 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5733 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Banner-Elk-Consignment-Cottage/146834055665 Mountain Time Linville Contact Person: Kyleigh Pittman, Store Manager Email: kyleighpaigep@gmail.com Address: 3616 Mitchell Ave, Suite 4.

Linville, NC, 28646 Phone: 828-385-0657 Website: https://www.mountaintimeonmainst.com/ The Twisted Twig Antiques and Accents Contact Person: Susan McCulloch Email: thetwistedtwigantiques@gmail. com Address: 2780 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 619-964-0038 Website: http://www.thetwistedtwigantiques.com/ Jewelry Hardin Fine Jewelry Contact Person: Susan Hardin Email: hardinjewelry@gmail.com Address: 920 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4653 Website: http://www.hardinfinejewelry.com/ Linens DeWoolfson Down Contact Person: Ashley Mitchell Email: info.linens@dewoolfsonlinens. com Address: 9452 NC Hwy 105 S., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 800-833-3696 Website: http://www.dewoolfsonlinens.com Pet Supplies and Services My Best Friend’s Barkery Contact Person: Erika Siegel Email: esiegel@mybestfriendsbarkery. com Address: 176 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-5625 Website: http://www.mybestfriends-

barkery.com/ Ruth Ann’s Pet Grooming Contact Person: Ruth Ann Liberatore Email: rapjlib@aol.com Address: 114 Laurel Lane, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-260-4454 Website: https://www.facebook.com/Ruths-Pet-Grooming-581449871932092/ Sherry’s Pawsitively Pampered Dog Sitting Contact Person: Sherry McManus Email: pawsitivelypet111@gmail.com Address: PO Box 2211, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-260-1144 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ pawsitivelypetpaws/ Signs Go Postal in Boone Contact Person: Christy Gottfried Email: orders@gopostalprinting.com Address: 207 New Market Center, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-262-0027 Website: http://www.gopostalprinting. com Instagram: https://www.instagram. com/gopostalboone/ Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/GPboone1/ The Sign Shop Contact Person: Bill Dicks Email: thesignshop@skybest.com Address: P.O. Box 426, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4437 Fax: 828-898-7586 Specialty Food and Wine Avery County Farmers Market Contact Person: Waightstill Avery Email: averyfarms3@gmail.com Address: P.O. Box 190, Plumtree, NC 28644 Phone: 828-733-5052 Website: http://www.averycountyfarmersmarket.net Banner Elk Olive Oil and Balsamics Contact Person: Amanda Siegel Email: amanda@beoliveoil.com Address: 155 Banner Rd, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-4441 Website: www.beoliveoil.com/ Window Treatments Appalachian Blinds & Closet Company/Carolina Shutter Company Contact Person: Greg Seiz Email: gregs@carolinawindowfashions.com Address: 1852 Highway 105, Suite 3, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-264-1395 Fax: 828-264-3587 Website: https://www.appblinds.com/ Budget Blinds of Boone Contact Person: Christine Copley Email: ccopley@budgetblinds.com Address: No Storefront-Mobile Phone: 828-964-0141 Website: https://budgetblinds.com/ boone/ Apparel BJ’s Resort Wear Contact Person: Sally Breslaue Email: salbres@aol.com Address: 145 Main St., Banner Elk, NC 28604

SEE DIRECTORY ON PAGE 20

Page 20 • Mountain Times Publications

DIRECTORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 Phone: 828-898-4229 Services Accounting and Billing Services Patty’s Billing Services, Inc. Contact Person: Patty Robinson Email: patty@pattysbillingservices. com Address: P.O. Box 2102, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-260-5991 Auto Sales Ross Chrysler Jeep Ram Contact Person: Richard Miller Email: rmiller@rossauto.com Address: 2282 Hwy 105 South, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-264-2875 Website: http://rossauto.com Business Consulting and Personal Coaching Honest to Goodness Contact Person: Sandi Dascoulias, Owner Email: Honestlybe2021@gmail.com Address: 100 High Country Square #68 Banner Elk NC 28604 Phone: 828-616-0810 Website: https://honesttogoodnessbe.com/ Car Washes Banner Elk Car Wash Contact Person: Matt Bagley Email: bannerelkcarwash@outlook. com Address: 1944 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-719-7462 Cleaning and Restoration Highland Pro Clean, Inc. Contact Person: Andrew Johansen Email: highlandproclean@gmail.com Address: 136 Asa St, Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-733-5089

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Website: http://www.highlandproclean.com Marcus’ Cleaning Service LLC Contact Person: Marcus Zellers Email: info@marcuscleaning.com Address: 518 Cole Hollow Rd., Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-733-3093 / 828-5281209 Website: http://www.marcuscleaning. com/ Spangler Restoration Contact Person: Ashli Kemo Email: ashli@callspangler.com Address: 1638 Old 421 S., Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-297-3000 Website: https://spanglerestores.com/ Computer Services Highland Mapping, Inc. Contact Person: Laura Wilson Email: mail@highlandmapping.com Address: 395 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-7720 Website: http://www.highlandmapping.com/ Electrical Utility Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Contact Person: Joseph A Thacker III, General Manager Email: mtninfo@mountainelectric.com Address: 1373 Elk Park Hwy, Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 828-733-0159 Fax: 828-733-3213 Website: http://www.mountainelectric.com/ Events and Entertainment The Barn at Cornerstone Contact Person: Kimberly Schrader Email: ccabins@att.net Address: 64 Cornerstone Circle, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-260-1125 Website: https://www.thebarnatcornerstone.com/ Heating & Air Conditioning Avery Heating and Air Conditioning Contact Person: Scott Boyles, Owner

Email: info@averyheating.com Address: 1600 Linville Falls Highway Linville, NC 28646 Phone: 828-733-5842 Website: https://www.averyheating. com/ Boone Heating and Air Conditioning Email: booneheating@bellsouth.net Address: 164 Mr. Bish Blvd., Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-268-1125 Website: www.booneheatingandair. com/ Insurance Fortner Insurance Agency, Inc. Contact Person: Tim Ganley Email: pharris@fortnerinsurance.com Address: 156 Main St. E., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-6366 Website: http://www.fortnerinsurance. com/ LifeStore Insurance Services Contact Person: Linda Gilleland Email: lgilleland@golifestore.com Address: 148 Highway 105 Extension, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-264-2626 Website: https://www.lifestoreinsurance.com/ Landscape and Tree Care Avery Landscape and Paving Contact Person: Joe Theys, Owner Email: joe@averylandscapeandpaving.com Address: 635 Little Horse Creek Rd. Newland, NC 28657 Phone: 919-818-2698 Website: https://averylandscapeandpaving.com/ Hunter’s Tree Service, Inc. Contact Person: Tony & Judy Hunter Email: trees@htsinc.biz Address: 1731 Beech Mountain Road, Elk Park, NC 28622 Phone: 828-733-3320 Fax: 828-733-0023 Website: http://www.hunterstreeserviceinc.com Lawyers and Attorneys

Blue Ridge Advocacy Center Contact Person: Tom McMurray Email: tom@appalachianmediation. com Address: PO Box 2171, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-386-1116 Fax: 828-386-1119 Website: http://www.appalachianmediation.com John M. Wright, Attorney Contact Person: John M. Wright Email: johnmwrightattorney@gmail. com Address: 139 Main Street East, Banner Elk NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-9761 Fax: 828-898-9761 Website: http://www.johnmwrightattorney.com/ Magazines Carolina Mountain Life Magazine Contact Person: Babette McAuliffe Email: livingcarolina@bellsouth.net Address: P.O. Box 976, Linville, NC 28646 Phone: 828-737-0771 Website: http://www.carolinamountainlifemagazine.com/ Pest Control Services A-1 Termite and Pest Control, Inc. Contact Person: Max Brown Email: marius_b@att.net Address: 2686 Morganton Blvd. S.W., Lenoir, NC 28645 Phone: 800-532-7378 and 828-9638600 Website: https://www.a-1pc.com/ Photography Cynthia Viola Art & Photography Contact Person: Cynthia Viola Email: cynthia@cynthiaviola.com Address: 1425 Castle Ford Rd. Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-260-3301 Website: http://www.cynthiaviola. com/ Todd Bush Photography Contact Person: Todd & Lori Bush Email: todd@bushphoto.com Address: 2989-C Tynecastle Hwy.,

Hwy. 184, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-898-8088 Website: http://www.bushphoto. com Printing and Mailing Services Go Postal in Boone Contact Person: Christy Gottfried Email: orders@gopostalprinting.com Address: 207 New Market Center, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828-262-0027 Website: http://www.gopostalprinting. com Instagram: https://www.instagram. com/gopostalboone/ Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/GPboone1/ Varsity Promo Group Contact Person: Samantha Warren Email: Samantha@varsitypromo.com Phone: 704-579-0314 Website: https://varsitypromo.dcpromosite.com/ Storage Facilities Banner Manor Self Storage Contact Person: Yvonne Bailey Cantrell Email: bannermanor@bannerelkselfstorage.com Address: 161 Silver Springs Dr. & 10675 Hwy. 105, Banner Elk, NC Phone: 828-898-5896 Website: http://www.bannerelkselfstorage.com/ Telecommunications and Internet Skyline Membership Corporation Contact Person: Brent Keith, Business; Paige Phillips, Customer Service; Karen Powell, Public Relations Email: inquiries@skybest.com Address: 16 High Country Square, Hwy 184, Banner Elk, NC 28604 & 217 Wilson Drive, Boone, NC, 28607 Phone: 828-898-1350 Website: http://skybest.com/ Travel Agents Cruise Planners- Rennard Contact Person: Donald Rennard Email: don.rennard@cruiseplanners. com

Address: 2331 Tynecastle Hwy. Suite #8, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: 828-789-9236 Website: http://www.bookmemytrip. com/ Individual Members Aheron, Michelle Aspbury, Jenny Brewer, Sara Brubaker, Mary Jo and Dan Coutts, David & Linda Dalter, Linda & Bill Dolab, Sharilynn & Charles File, Mark & Soyars, David Finci Solomon, Sandi & Luis, Tony Hahn, Bud & Silva Hendrix, Dan & Elizabeth Holt, Brenda Huot, Wayne Krege, Roy & Marion Lester, Charles & Nancy Long, Jim Lopes, Jennifer, Dr. Lott, Tommy & Sherry Lyerly, Brenda McLendon, Michael and Kathleen Markarian, Berge & Meline Mulhall, Leonard & Keiko Newman, Dick & Joyce Nye, Judith O’Connell, Paul & Susie Olan, Meredith and Tony Ormond, Linda & Gene Petcoff, Thomas & Sally Penegar, Allison Ramo, Neil & Marilyn Randolph, Tamara Reynolds, Roy & Cathy Privatte-Robinson, Sandra Rovengo, Paul Seitz, William & Carol Silver, Ted & Berns, Carol Simmons, Nancy & Stephen Snow, Rose & Ranger, Jim Sparks, Ruth & Jack Stevenson, Nancy & Bill Swinkola, Jim & Ann Tate, David Testani, Bob & Sandy Watts, Mary Wernick, Bob & Ellie Williams III, John & Linda Zimmer, Larry & Chris

COLLEGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

economic impact of nearly 1,000 students is very meaningful to the community, and our athletic, theatre and community service programs enhance the quality of life of the region.”

Today, Lees-McRae offers dozens of programs of study, broken up into majors, minors, online and in-person classes and in 2018, added its first graduate program for teaching. Additionally, nestled in the heart of the High Country, Lees-McRae offers Outdoor Recreation programs that highlight the rich culture of the area, including a Ski Industry Minor that was first introduced to the college in fall 2019.

FILE PHOTO PHOTO BY MICHAEL HARDY

The Rev. Edgar Tufts founded Lees McRae College.

President Herbert L. King delivers a passionate speech to a packed audience at the Evans Auditorium in 2018.

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BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 21

Mark Your Calendars! 2022

July 15-17 August 12-14 Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 (828) 898-5605 info@averycounty.com

October 15-16 Located in Downtown Banner Elk Saturday: 9am – 5pm Sunday: 9am – 4pm (828) 898-5605 info@averycounty.com

Scan for more info

Page 22 • Mountain Times Publications

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

FILE PHOTO

The Avery County Board of Education presented the Banner Elk Kiwanis with its quarterly award for the group’s contribution to students’ programs in the county. Pictured from left are Ruth Shirley, Trey Oakley, Jane Bumgarner, Anne Winkelman, Ann Swinkola, Jim Swinkola, John Greene, Kathey Aldridge, Pat Edwards and Dr. Dan Brigman.

Banner Elk maintains substantial civic organizations

BY NEAL FALVEY NEAL.FALVEY@ AVERYJOURNAL.COM Banner Elk and the regional area have a longstanding reputation of housing charitable and benevolent civic groups, with active Kiwanis and Rotary chapters meeting each week and engaging in charitable causes throughout the year. Below is information for the service-minded who want to join up with the groups.

Banner Elk Kiwanis Club Dedicated to serving children, the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club meets every Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. at LeesMcRae College. Meetings are held in Miller Commons, which is the private dining room adjacent to the MacDonald Student Dining Room. Interested parties are welcome to join the club for lunch. To fill out a membership application, click to www.bannerelkkiwanis.org.

Avery County Rotary Club Serving the community through fundraising and service projects, the club

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Avery County Rotary Club held a charity breakfast with proceeds benefiting The Crossnore Communities for Children in Avery County. Rotary meets weekly and also hosts a number of events and fundraising efforts throughout the year.

PHOTO BY NEAL FALVEY

President of Kiwanis Club Doug Owen and Rock Garden Memorial engraver Bill Dicks take hold of the unique carved stone that started a veteran’s tribute. Kiwanis has a reputation of honoring veterans and supporting other causes.

meets at noon on Thursdays at Puerto Nuevo Restaurant in Banner Elk. For more information about becoming a Rotarian, email averycountyrotary@gmail.com or call (828) 387-6166.

Area Organizations In addition to the clubs,

there are a number of nonprofits in the Avery County dedicated to causes such as hunger, poverty and affordable housing. A quick web search for any of the following organizations will give information if you are interested in volunteering

with any of the organizations.

Listed alongside each organization, in parentheses, is the cause supported by each.

• Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens (Adults with disabilities) • Avery County Educational Foundation (Educational opportunities) • Avery County Habitat for Humanity (Affordable Housing) • Avery County Historical Museum (Historic Preser-

vation) • Avery County Humane Society (Animal Care and Adoption) • Avery County Shrine Club (Children) • Banner House Museum/Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation (Historical Preservation) • Beech Mountain Community Club (Community Group) • Children’s Hope Alliance (Children) • Disabled American Vet-

erans Chapter 87 (Veterans Organization) • Feeding Avery Families (Hunger) • High Country Caregivers Foundation (Care for the Elderly) • High Country Charitable Foundation (Philanthropy) • High Country United Way (Philanthropy) • MAY Coalition (Economic Empowerment) • Move with Compassion Ministry (Hunger, Clothing) • New Opportunity School for Women (Economic Empowerment) • OASIS (Abuse and Sexual Assault) • Reaching Avery Ministry (Hunger, Clothing) • VFW Pat Ray Post 4286 (Veterans Services) • Volunteer Avery (Community Service) • Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge (Economic Empowerment) • WAMY Community Action (Economic Empowerment) • Williams Academy (Children) • Yellow Mountain Enterprises (Adults with Disabilities)

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Mountain Times Publications • Page 23

Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival celebrates successful downtown return

BY JAMIE SHELL EDITOR@ AVERYJOURNAL.COM BANNER ELK — Despite uncharacteristically warm temperatures leading up to the festival weekend, Mother Nature flipped a switch to bring back typical fall weather, as a wet and damp beginning to the opening day of the 44th Annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival on Saturday, Oct. 16, gave way to a cooler afternoon to close the first day, with sun reigning on Sunday to close the two days of activities.

Thousands of visitors flocked again to downtown Banner Elk on both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 16 and 17, following a 2020 festival that was curtailed to a single race in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

With returning patrons came the other facets of the festival that attendees know and love, including the more than 150 arts and crafts vendors selling their wares to food vendors providing tantalizing aromas and palate satisfiers, with everything from doughnuts to barbecue available on offer.

Also present were various local organizations who pitched in to make the event take place, with efforts that ranged from raising funds through offering parking services near the festival grounds in town to the regular and

2021-22 WORMY WINTER WEATHER FORECAST By virtue of its victory in the championship race at the 2021 Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival, the winning worm predicts the upcoming 13 weeks of winter weather by virtue of the colors or shades of the 13 worm segments, each representing a week of winter. This year’s victorious worm was owned by Eric Wood of Hickory.

Local celebrity and longtime woolly worm adjudicator Tommy Burleson shared what the winning worm prognosticates for the coming season.

• Section / Week 1 — Black, below average temperatures • Section / Week 2 — Fleck, below average temps, light snow • Section / Week 3 — Black, below average temps • Section / Week 4 — Black, below average temps • Section / Week 5 — Light brown, “autumn color,” above average temps • Section / Week 6 — Light brown, “autumn color,” above average temps • Section / Week 7 — Dark brown, average temps • Section / Week 8 — Darn brown, average temps • Section / Week 9 — Dark brown, average temps • Section / Week 10 — Light brown, above average temps • Section / Week 11 — Light brown, above average temps • Section / Week 12 — Light brown, above average temps • Section / Week 13 — Fleck, below average temps, light snow repeated collection of trash throughout the weekend that accumulated on the festival grounds by longtime festival supporters the Civil Air Patrol.

“The event was awesome, despite the rain on Saturday,” Avery Chamber of Commerce Director Anne Winkleman said of the atmosphere, camaraderie and the success of the festival. “There was so much excitement up on the stage, and the weather didn’t slow anybody down.

There was so much pentup excitement.”

The stars of the weekend, and each festival for more than four decades now, are the woolly worms themselves, as they attempt to wiggle their way up a

three-foot string for glory (and cash for the winning owners). Following an arduous day of racing, the last worm standing following dozens of quarterfinal and semifinal races over the day was owned/trained

by Eric Wood from Hickory, who took home the $1,000 grand prize.

Wood stated that he came to the festival thanks to a suggestion from a family member.

“I didn’t even think about it, what I would spend the money on when I bought a $2 worm. That’s like a 500% return on investment!” Wood said after the win and claiming the $1,000 in cold hard cash.

SEE WOOLLY ON PAGE 24

PHOTO BY MARISA MECKE

The 2021 Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival’s Saturday champion worm owner Eric Wood of Hickory (front row with blue ribbon), is joined onstage by various dignitaries who help to make the festival possible. Pictured are Dr. William Burrow, Mary Jo Brubaker (Woolly Worm Committee Chair), Shawn Stricklen, Adam Binder, Sarah Dewitt, head official and worm reader Tommy Burleson, Wood, Jason Dewitt, Avery Chamber Director Anne Winkelman, Deanna Acklin and Erin Spear.

Page 24 • Mountain Times Publications

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

WOOLLY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

The festival boasted more than 150 Art and Craft Vendors, along with numerous food vendors, live entertainment, games and more. According to Winkelman, sales went well with many of the vendors on site, as well as with advance E-ticket sales, of which almost 1,200 tickets were sold prior to the festival, more than double the total sold in the festival’s first year of using the online ticketing service option in 2019.

“All of the vendors had an incredible sales event,” PHOTO BY MARISA MECKE Winkelman said. “We had Eric Wood, who hails from Hickory, was convinced to attend the festival by his cousin from an amazing weekend. The Taylorsville. Wood poses with his championship ribbon and trophy, along with his champion food vendors did really climbing woolly worm. The $1,000 cash grand prize was put away for safekeeping. well and had long lines.

Even in the rain, we had numerous vendors who sold out. I was amazed with how many people braved the rain for this awesome event.”

An event to carry on for more than 40 years successfully depends on many people to form a team. Winkelman shared that this year’s festival was no exception, as numerous individuals, groups and organizations from various sectors were instrumental to bringing the festival back to what regular annual attendees are familiar with and enjoy, as well as providing the sort of firsttime experience that new PHOTO BY MARISA MECKE attendees will not soon Competitors lined up on the stage to race their woolly worms. The annual Woolly Worm forget.

Festival returned in earnest following a trimmed-down 2020 festival due to the COVID-19 “So many groups were pandemic. important and made the event work so well. The Auxiliary of the Banner whole family all worked band and I, my mom and Civil Air Patrol were fanElk Fire Department who throughout the festival,” my friend all were busy tastic. The Boy Scouts were worked really hard. Cycle Winkelman explained. “My working. Mary Jo Brugreat. We had the Ladies 4 Life, Doug Owen and his family, including my husbaker did a fantastic job

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

as we worked together in putting on the festival. She was awesome and also had all of her family working there. The FFA did a good job with us, and though we had less volunteers than we have had in past years, the ones who volunteered did an awesome job and double duty. Talia Freeman from Beech Mountain did a tremendous job, the Educators sorority were fantastic, and the Avery High School Key Club were a great help. We can’t thank those folks enough, and many others, for what they did throughout the weekend.”

The trio of Adam Binder, Jason Dewitt and Shawn Stricklen served together in providing commentary during the races and as the general Masters of Ceremonies for the weekend, as several dozen heats of races were carried out in order to get to the grand champion at the conclusion of the day on Saturday afternoon.

Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk partners with the Avery Chamber each year to operate the festival weekend, and proceeds from the event are split between the two organizations. Kiwanis utilizes its funds toward the awarding of grants for area groups and organizations each year.

Doug Owen, President with the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club, was quick to offer praise for the execution of this year’s event after last year’s pared-down festival.

“It was great to see the festival in full swing again in 2021. It is our biggest fundraiser of the year and from the funds we are

able to generate Kiwanis gives back to the community through grants,” Owen said. “Anne from the Chamber is a real go-getter, and with this being her first festival, she did a fantastic job. She set up a live phone call with The Weather Channel on Sunday morning. The vendors all seemed happy with their sales, even with the Saturday rain. Many of us feel that is was our biggest Sunday in a long time.”

Following the festival, Owen and a number of others organized a release of the worms that were used from the event back into a natural habitat around Banner Elk to live out their days before eventually metamorphosing into the Isabella tiger moth.

“For me the official worm release after the festival was extra special,” Owen added.

For patron and organizer alike, the Woolly Worm Festival was a welcome sight for sore eyes, a hopeful harbinger that normalcy beyond the previous 18 months may be on the horizon.

“Every person I spoke to, customers and vendors, were so excited to be out.

They felt safe there, and there was no frustrations by anyone. More than five vendors told me that this was the most money they had made at any festival they had been to all year,” Winkelman explained.

“Two things I’ll remember from the festival are the long doughnut lines and the long line to get shirts from Don Iverson’s booth.

Those were the most popular places. We all had such a good time this weekend.”

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BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 25

A trip back through time in Banner Elk COMPILED BY JAMIE SHELL JAMIE.SHELL@AVERYJOURNAL.COM The town of Banner Elk boasts a long and rich history dating back almost two

centuries.

The following is a sampling of images taking viewers back in time to what made Banner Elk past and present the quintessential American town.

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

Banner Elk, a once remote Appalachian community, is the home of major and ongoing VonCannon’s Ford dealership in Banner Elk. missions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Three church related institutions – Lees-McRae College, Grandfather Home and Orphanage and Grace (later Cannon) Hospital, pictured – were established around the turn of the century, primarily through the efforts of the Presbyterian Church, U.S., and the Rev. Edgar Tufts. In 1923, a makeshift hospital in Banner Elk was averaging five patients per night and the need for more space was critical. Helen Hartley Jenkins donated $22,000 to build a 25-bed hospital, which was named after her sister, Grace. According to historical archives, the new hospital had running water, electricity and a coal-fired furnace. The kitchen was on the first floor along with living quarters for the director of nursing and the dietitian. Patient rooms were on the second and third floors and the operating room and nurses’ quarters were on the top floor.

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

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

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

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

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

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BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

AJT FILE PHOTO

The Banner Elk Bank served the financial needs of residents during the mid-20th century.

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

An image of the early years of the Lees-McRae College campus.

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

An unknown student posing with a Daniel Boone Trail Marker in Banner Elk.

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY

A North Carolina historic marker recognizing Lees-McRae College and its founder, Edgar Tufts.

PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL HARDY PHOTO SUBMITTED

An image of students in the library at Lees-McRae College circa 1948.

The Maple Tea Room in Banner Elk was a popular dining destination for locals as well as passers-through on the Queen City Trailways Bus Line.

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 27

Numbers to know: Important phone numbers in Banner Elk and Avery County

BY MARISA MECKE MARISA.MECKE@ MOUNTAINTIMES.COM The following is a lasting of important area phone numbers at a glance for your convenience: Fire, Rescue, Police and Emergency: 911 Town of Banner Elk: (828) 898-5498 Avery County Chamber of Commerce: (828) 989-5605, (800) 972-2183 Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce: (828) 898-8395 Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce: (828) 3879283

The Avery Journal-Times newspaper: (828) 733-2448 Banner House Museum: (828) 898-3634 Banner Elk Town Hall: (828) 898-5398 Banner Elk Police Department: (828) 898-4300 Banner Elk Fire Depart-

ment: (828) 898-4623 Banner Elk Exxon: (828) 898-5210 Lees-McRae College: (828) 898-5241 Avery County Sheriff’s Office: (828) 733-2071 Avery County Schools: (828) 733-6006 Cannon Memorial Hospital: (828) 733-7000 Mountain Electric Cooperative: (828) 733-0159 Williams YMCA of Avery County: (828) 733-5500 Beech Mountain Resort: (828) 387-2011 Beech Mountain Police Department: (828) 387-2342 Sugar Mountain Resort:

(828) 898-4521 Sugar Mountain Police Department: (828) 898-4349 Avery County Board of Elections: (828) 733-8282 Avery County Emergency Management/Burn Permits: (828) 733-8213 Avery County Communications/911 Office: (828) 733-5855 Avery County Board of Commissioners Office: (828) 733-8212 Avery County Emergency Medical Services: (828) 7338286 Avery County Health Department: (828) 733- 6031 Avery County Mapping:

(828) 733-7001 Avery County Planning Department: (828) 733-8266 Avery County Register of Deeds: (828) 733-8260 Avery County Parks and Recreation: (828) 733-8266 Avery County Social Services: (828) 733-8230 Avery County Solid Waste: (828) 733-5420 Avery County Tax Office: (828) 733-8214 Avery County Transportation Department: (828) 733-0005 Avery County Veterans Services: (828) 733-8211 Avery County Museum: (828) 733-7111

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Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Beauty in every corner: Arts and entertainment in Banner Elk

BY MARISA MECKE MARISA.MECKE@ MOUNTAINTIMES.COM From theater productions to gallery walks, Banner Elk offers visitors a variety of ways to engage with the distinct culture of the Appalachian mountains. Hosting events throughout the year and bringing artists, musicians and actors alike to town, Banner Elk promises rich and meaningful encounters with art for each visitor.

CULTURAL ARTS CENTER AT THE HISTORIC BANNER ELK SCHOOL 185 Azalea Circle With a constant slate of activities, the Historic Banner Elk School is home to many cultural events and programs in town.

ENSEMBLE STAGE Performing in the Cultural Arts Center at Historic Banner Elk School, Ensemble Stage brings professional quality performances with local acting powerhouses.

Although its 2020 season was postponed due to COVID-19, in July of 2021 it made its return to the High Country with a packed summer schedule including dramas, comedies and kids performances.

Throughout the year, the local actors at Ensemble Stage bring holiday performances, dramatic theatre productions and more to life for viewers of all ages.

BE ARTISTS GALLERY The BE Artists Gallery was formed by a group of local artists and features their fine arts and crafts for sale. For those looking to get a flavor of High Country culture, this art gallery has all handcrafted art from artists living, working and being constantly inspired

FILE PHOTO

The Ensemble Stage at the Historic Banner Elk School features main stage productions from professional and local actors.

by the region. Displays include a variety of mediums, such as fabric art, fine furniture, glass works, graphic arts, jewelry, metal works, paintings, photography, ceramics and more. To learn more, call (828) 898-6767 or click to beartistsgallery.com.

The Banner Elk Book Exchange is also housed in the Historic Banner Elk School. A community-based, volunteer-run book exchange for all ages that also offers community events such as lectures.

To see what events are happening at the Historic Banner Elk School, click to historicbannerelkschool.com.

THEATER Lees-McRae Theatre Arts To see future stars honing their craft, visitors can catch three mainstage productions each year, along with student-directed works, by the Theatre Arts program at LeesMcRae College. The 2021-22 season boasts three featured shows: “In the Green,” an indie-rock musical about a medieval Catholic nun; “Proof,” about a mathematical genius who grapples with the passing of her mentally ill father; and “9 to 5: The Musical,” a classic

musical theater production with the music and writing of none other than Dolly Parton.

To see show dates, where to get tickets and future events, click to lmc.edu/academics/ programs/theatre-arts/index.htm.

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre Productions don’t stop when the academic year ends at Lees-McRae. The students who hang around Banner Elk over the summers take to the stage for a summer production schedule which incorporates members of the community as well. The program has been running on campus since 1985, giving theatre students expanded opportunities to work with a wider group of actors and behind-the-scenes support.

During the summer of 2021, the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre produced “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a comedic musical about a wacky group of six spellers, and “America’s Artist: The Norman Rockwell Story,” a musical about the life and work of American artist Norman Rockwell. To find out more about the LeesMcRae Summer Theatre, click to lmc.edu/community/

the viewer to deeper understanding or an appreciation of the beauty, the tragedy, the pain, the joy, or the diversity of our world.”

Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 NC-194 (828) 963-7347 sallynooney.com Nooney specializes in both paintings and fused glass art.

Midway between Banner Elk PHOTO SUBMITTED and Valle Crucis, Nooney’s Pictured is ‘Moonlit Cottage,’ an alcohol ink art piece by Sally gallery is open most days Nooney.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. summer-theatre/index.htm.

11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or by Inspired by nature, ART GALLERIES appointment.

Nooney’s gallery features Aside from the BE Artists Clark Gallery many paintings of the outGallery, there are seven other 393 Shawneehaw Ave. S doors including a collection of galleries to enjoy in town, (828) 898-2095 landscape paintings and anensuring a diverse art viewing Chris Clark has been repre- imal paintings. Additionally, experience. senting fine art for nearly 15 she shows still life paintings Art Cellar Gallery years, and his gallery boasts and paintings of “women with 920 Shawneehaw Lane a wide range of artists both attitudes.” Demonstrating her (828) 898-5157 local and national. Additionkeen eye and distinct painting artcellargallery.com ally, the gallery is active with style, all the works in the Featuring paint, clay glass, American auction houses, gallery are her own. stone and wood, the Art Celacquiring a collection of older Studio 140 at Sorrenlar Gallery displays the work works and found options. to’s of local artists from the High The gallery is open Tuesday 140 Azalea Circle SE Country as well as some from through Saturday 10 a.m. to (828) 898-5214 beyond. The gallery is located 5 p.m., and closed Sunday bannerelkvillage.com/ on Highway 184 and open and Monday. studio-140 Monday through Saturday Linda Sheppard Fine Artists Angela Accetturo, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Art David Ganegas and Kent Paulette display their works Carlton Gallery 2780 Tynecastle Hwy. #D at Studio 140. An open studio, 10360 Hwy. 105 S (828) 719-6955 (828) 963-4288 lindasheppardfineart.com it provides a space for the carltongallery.com Linda Sheppard had a long community to come and see not only the artists’ works, but Featuring more than 150 and winding course to find local, regional and national her way to painting — from a the artists while they are at work. With a unique opportuartists, Carlton Gallery was striking first encounter with nity to engage with the artists originally established as a painting at a New York art face-to-face, visitors to Studio small fiber studio in 1982. gallery, to losing her hus140 can learn about the Since then, the gallery has band in the Vietnam war, to artists’ creative processes and grown to include artwork becoming a mother. Neverof all mediums including theless, art lessons and a con- get deep insight and deeper appreciation for the works paintings in oils, acrylic, tinuing passion for painting they are viewing. watercolor and mixed media led her to continue developStudio 140 is open Monday as well as pottery, jewelry, ing her love for painting and wood, sculpture and beyond. her technique over the years. to Thursday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday to Saturday 4 p.m.

Current hours are Tuesday In her website biography, through Saturday from Sheppard states that her goal to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday is to “create art that will move 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 29

Banner Elk before the Banners

M

BY MICHAEL C. HARDY any of our local communities are named for prominent local families. Most residents and even most visitors know that the name of Banner Elk is tied to the Banner family, but there is a long history of settlement centered around the area that is today Banner Elk, a history that actually predates the Banners themselves and which has other names stamped upon it.

The story of how the Banner family came to the region is a well-known piece of local history. Martin L. Banner traveled into these parts from Forsyth County about 1848; he promptly bought property and built a cabin.

He soon became bored with his surroundings and sold out to the Dugger family.

Banner then moved on to Carter County, Tenn. Martin eventually returned to area a few years later and settled in the Montezuma community.

In 1856, Lewis Banner, a brother to Martin, moved to the area and purchased 200 acres of land on Elk Creek.

He brought with him his five sons and three daughters.

They are the ones who gave the name “Banner” to Banner Elk. A post office called Banner’s Elk opened on June 16, 1875. Today, Banner Elk is considered one of the premier vacation sites in western North Carolina.

However, there were pioneers in the area prior to the Banners. One of the first was David Hix. About the same time that Samuel Bright was settling down near the present-day site of the Avery County Airport, near Ingalls, David Hix

was settling in the Valle Crucis area of Watauga County.

His home was surrounded by a palisade wall and was generally known as Hix’s Fort. He was living there with his family, including his two sons, Samuel and David; his two son-in-laws, Thomas and Mikel Asher; two other men named Lucus and Asher, and a hired woman named Ireland, along with her daughter, Jenny.

For a brief amount of time, the group moved further down the Watauga River, living near Dugger’s Iron Works in what is present-day Carter County, Tenn. It was here that Jenny was abducted, probably by the Shawnee; she lived for seven years near the Ohio River and married one of their warriors. She was later purchased by some “Indian traders” and was eventually able to return to her mother.

Hix lived at Dugger’s Iron Works for maybe a year before returning to Valle Crucis. One source puts him back on the upper section of the Watauga River about 1776 or 1777. As the American Revolution broke out on the frontier as well as in the more populated sections of the Colonies, Hix’s position became more complicated and difficult. In fact, it is not even very clear where his loyalties actually were.

One source considered Hix a Tory, while another considered him to be of a more neutral position. Clearly, Col. Benjamin Cleveland, Patriot leader and legendary foe of Tories in the backcountry, believed Hix was an enemy to the Patriot cause. At one point, Cleveland traveled from Wilkesboro and laid

siege to Hix’s Fort. After a few days, Hix believed that Cleveland had retreated, and when the settlers ventured forth, Cleveland ambushed them, killing Hix’s son-inlaw. Mikel, and wounding David Hix. Cleveland’s men then plundered Hix’s Fort.

At some point, it appears that the Hix family fled their fort in Valle Crucis. The family came to the area near present-day Banner Elk, presumably at some point during the American Revolution.

John Preston Arthur, in his history of Watauga County, tells us that Hix eventually “became uneasy and retired to the wilderness near what is now Banner Elk, where he made camp and supported himself by hunting and making maple syrup and sugar, thus avoiding service as an American or a Tory.” Hix did manage to avoid swearing allegiance to either side during the war. Arthur goes on to tell us that people 100 years ago still plowed up coal “near the Lybrook farm, near the Grandfather Orphanage” and that local people knew the area as the Hix Improvement, “that being the place here Samuel Hix ‘laid out during the Revolutionary War.’” It is possible that David Hix died in the Banner Elk

area in 1792 or 1793. His will, drawn up by a resident from Washington County (now Tennessee), was probated in Wilkes County.

Arthur adds that there “were no clearings of any extent at Banner Elk, except those at the Hix Improvement, which was very small, and at Big Bottoms but there were two ‘deadenings,’ one called the Moses Deadening and the other the Lark Chopping.” These last two were probably locations where trees had been cut in such a way where their death was certain, thus opening up new ground for cultivation.

Arthur also tells us that David Hix soon had neighbors: Baker King and Ben Dugger. There are plenty of Duggers still in the area.

Members of the Hix family are also still here in Avery County, but, over time, the name has morphed into the more familiar Hicks. Though there were others seeking to settle in the region well before the 1840, it would be the Banner family whose name would stick to the community.

Michael C. Hardy is the 2010 North Carolina Historian of the Year and the author of more thank 20 books. When not researching the depths of North Caroli-

FILE PHOTO

A highway marker placed in Banner Elk honors one of the town’s more widely known citizens, Shepherd Monroe Dugger, who was touted on the marker as ‘educator and humorist.’

na’s role in the Civil War, he dabbles with local history.

Learn more by clicking to www.michaelchardy.com.

Caribbean Inspired Kitchen & Bar 488 Main Street W Banner Elk, NC 828.898.7773 www.bodegasbe.com

Page 30 • Mountain Times Publications

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BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Answering the call of the wild in Banner Elk

BY MARISA MECKE MARISA.MECKE@ MOUNTAINTIMES.COM One of the highest townships in the region, Banner Elk can feel like the top of the world. Surrounded by a bounty of trails, parks, scenic vistas and outdoor getaways, there’s an outdoor experience for everyone from the most experienced backpacker to the most casual trail walker.

A short drive from Banner Elk is one of the most recognizable attractions of the High Country, Grandfather Mountain. Rich in diverse plant and wildlife, Grandfather Mountain State Park contains tall, craggy peaks crisscrossed by walking and hiking trails leading to spectacular views. Whether it is the Profile Trail off Highway 105 in Linville or a trip up to MacRae Meadows, site of the annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, there’s plenty to be seen atop Grandfather Mountain.

Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation operates an attraction atop Grandfather Mountain for those looking for a curated and educational encounter with nature. The MileHigh Swinging Bridge, a museum featuring natural history education and exhibits with rehabilitated, non-releasable animals like river otters and bears all make Grandfather Mountain a must-see stop in the High Country.

To learn more about the attractions at Grandfa-

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION

The Mile High Swinging Bridge can be magical during winter, and with fewer crowds during this time of year, guests can often have it all to themselves.

ther Mountain visit www. grandfather.com.

To find trail maps and further information regarding the state park, visit www.ncparks.gov/ grandfather-mountain-state-park.

To see one of the most unique views near Banner Elk, visitors can get behind the wheel and cruise on the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Linn Cove Viaduct, a curved bridge with sweeping views of a mountain valley.

Located 40 minutes from Banner Elk, nature lovers can take a hike in the Roan Highlands. The Appalachian Trail splits over the North Carolina-Tennessee border and gives hikers a 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Some of the beauty of the foliage within Roan Highlands. Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy announced a signed letter of intent in early 2021 to accept a 7,500-acre portion of the region for conservation.

For those looking to stay closer to town,

there’s plenty of outdoor hangouts to enjoy just

a short distance away.

Beech Mountain and

Sugar Mountain both have resorts with 18-hole golf courses overlooking breathtaking views during the warmer months, and in the winter months host a variety of winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

For a more laid-back encounter with nature in Banner Elk, Wildcat Lake features a small park where visitors can dig their feet into a white sand beach, watch ducks and geese by a swimming dock and enjoy a picnic.

At Lees-McRae’s historic Mill Pond, nature lovers can take a short walk and enjoy the birds that make the pond their home.

One of the most beloved creatures of Banner Elk is much smaller than a duck or goose. The woolly worm, a small caterpillar that transforms into an orange moth, is the honoree of Banner Elk’s annual Woolly Worm Festival, hosted by the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club and Avery County Chamber of Commerce on the third weekend of each October.

The small critters take over downtown Banner Elk in woolly worm races where they crawl vertically up a string, and the winning worm has the honor of predicting the region’s upcoming winter weather.

Whether taking in a scenic view from the passenger seat of a car or climbing the highest peaks of the area, Banner Elk has a way for everybody to enjoy nature all year long.

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 31

Blue Ridge beauty: Kick back in Banner Elk’s Tate-Evans Park STAFF REPORT NEWS@AVERYJOURNAL.COM FILE PHOTO

Banner Elk and area places of worship • First Baptist Church • Forest Home Community • Fletcher Presbyterian • God’s Blessing Church The following is a listing of • Green Valley Baptist churches and houses of wor• Harmony Baptist Church ship that meet in Banner Elk • Heaton Christian or elsewhere across the Avery • Henson Creek Baptist County area.

• Ivey Heights FWB • Aaron Baptist Church • Jehovah’s Witnesses • All Saints Mission • Jonas Ridge Baptist • Altamont United Methodist • Linville Falls Community • Arbor Dale Presbyterian Church • Avery United Methodist • Linville Evangelical • Banner Elk Church of Methodist Christ • Matney Liberty Church • Banner Elk Presbyterian • Midway Holiness Church • Banner Elk Seventh-Day • Minneapolis Baptist Adventist • Minneapolis Christian • Banner Elk United Meth• Minneapolis Methodist odist • Mt. Calvary Baptist • Beech Mountain Baptist • Mt. Pleasant Baptist • Belview Baptist Church • Mountain View FWB • Big Meadows Baptist • Newland Christian • Chapel in the Woods • Newland Presbyterian • Chestnut Dale Baptist • Newland United Methodist • Church of Jesus Christ • Open Door Baptist • Church of the Savior • Pineola Baptist • Crab Orchard FWB • Pineola Church of God • Cranberry Baptist • Pineola Presbyterian • Crossnore Baptist • Pleasant Hill Baptist • Crossnore Presbyterian • Plumtree Presbyterian • Curtis Creek FWB • Powdermill Baptist • Elk Mountain FWB • Roaring Creek Baptist • Elk Park Baptist • Roaring Creek FWB • Elk Park Christian • St. Bernadette Catholic • Elk Park United Methodist • Stamey Town Baptist • Emmanuel Baptist • Sugar Mountain Baptist • Faith Baptist • Yellow Mountain Baptist • Fall Creek Baptist • Vale FWB • Fellowship Baptist • Victory Baptist • Fellowship Presbyterian • Walnut Grove Presbyterian

BY NEAL FALVEY

NEAL.FALVEY@AVERYJOURNAL. COM

Located in downtown Banner Elk, Tate-Evans Park provides ample opportunities for families to enjoy the grandeur of the Blue Ridge Mountains together.

The park features two-playground areas perfect for children of all FILE PHOTO ages, outdoor grills and Tate-Evans Park, located adjacent to the Banner Elk Town Hall, features walking trails, picnic areas, as well as a walking trail. Visitors are playground equipment, picnic shelters and an amphitheater that hosts live music during the summer months. invited to stroll alongside Shawneehaw Creek, or mances from a variety of Due to the spread information regarding simply take in the scenery local and regional artists of COVID-19, some of park events call (828) on one of the park’s many every Thursday evening Tate-Evans Park’s reg898-5398 or click to benches. Aside from the beginning in June and ularly scheduled events http://www.townofbanwalking trail, Tate-Evcontinuing until the end may undergo changes. nerelk.org/recreation/ ans Park also features a of August.

For the most up to date town-parks. covered picnic pavilion, volleyball court and wading pools, making it a great summer hotspot for those looking for those looking to experience a true Appalachian summer.

The park hosts a variety of unique events throughout the year including an annual Fourth of July celebration, Spooktacular event in October and Christmas tree lighting and caroling in December. Tate-Evans Park is also a prime location No matter where you are in life, we will be here to provide for birthday parties, the care you need with the compassion you deserve. weddings, and other private events. The SKILLED NURSING | SHORT-TERM THERAPY | RESPITE SERVICES park is also the scene Now offering outpatient therapy services! of a recurring Summer Concert Series, which takes place at the park’s sizable outdoor amphitheater. The LIFE CARE CENTER OF BANNER ELK shows feature perfor828.898.5136 • 185 Norwood Hollow Rd. • Banner Elk, NC 28604 • LifeCareCenterOfBannerElk.com

Care WITH Confidence

147075

Banner Elk Presbyterian Church in Banner Elk. The church, founded in 1893, is located at 420 College Drive, adjacent to the Lees-McRae College campus.

Page 32 • Mountain Times Publications

BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN

10543 Hwy 105 S, Suite 2, | Banner Elk, NC Located near the bottom of Hawksnest

Wednesday, December 29, 2021