2022
Page 2 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY
More than 200 guests attended the ceremony as the 2022 Best of Avery County award winners were honored at Appalachian View venue in Newland on Thursday, Aug. 18.
PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID Avery
Avery County’s Best in 2022
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BY JAMIE SHELL COMEDITOR@AVERYJOURNAL. C ontinuing to rebound from the global pandem ic and difficult economic challenges and struggles, the business and nonprofit communities in Avery County have put their best foot forward to continue doing what they do best — serving the community. The Avery Journal-Times 2022 Best of the Best awards celebrated its fourth year of being presented, with an in-person celebration held for the first time at the Appalachian View venue in Newland.Sponsors for the 2022 awards were Ballad Health, Stonewalls and Life Care Center of Banner Elk. For this year’s ceremony, Avery County Building and Planning Inspector and Av ery County Legend Tommy Burleson provided inspiring remarks as keynote speaker, with music provided by Todd Wright and the High Country Jazz Trio, and the event meal provided by Stone Walls. The AJT’s Henry Volk served as Master of Ceremonies. This year, awards were given in more than 150 cate gories. Some categories were time-honored traditions such as Best Restaurant Service and Best Women’s Boutique, others were more recent additions — including Best Gluten-Free Restaurant and Best Acupuncture Clinic. The efforts of local busi nesses didn’t go unnoticed by the community, as demon strated by the enthusiasm of voters to show support for the Best of the Best of Avery business. The Avery Journal-Times commends each of the winners as they are recognized, and remains thankful for the tireless work each of them continue to give to the Businessesarea. and winners are featured in this spe cial section of The Avery Journal-Times, as well as on The AJT website at www. averyjournal.com following print publication release.
PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 3THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Check OurSocial Media for LiveMusic Schedule! fredand larry sc offe e.c om 3591 Tynecastle Hwy,Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 367-2110 Thankyou for voting us Best Cof fee Shop, Best Cof fee Roaster, Best Baker y, Best Donuts, and Best Music Venue in Aver yCounty! Thank ou or o ing us Bes Beau alon in er Coun !20 22 20 22
Page 4 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thank youfor voting us the #1 Hardware Store, #1 PaintShopand #1 Farm Supply Store Boone& Church #1 MusicGroup in Aver yC ounty! ThreeNails Hardware 110 EstatoaSt, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-0408 2022 2022 2022 2022 Thank youfor voting us the Best Transportation Service in Avery County! 20 22 • Flooring Store: A Flooring Outlet, Inc. • Festival: Avery County Heritage Festival • School Principal: Avery County Schools - Emily Johnson Dellinger - Freedom Trail Elementary • Teacher: Avery County Schools - Emily Singleton - Avery County High School • School: Avery County Schools - Freedom Trail Elementary School • Taxi Company: Avery County Transportation • Oil Change: Avery Oil Exchange • Urgent Care: Ballad Health Medical Associates Urgent Care • Town: Banner Elk • Town Manager: Banner Elk - Rick Owen • General Store: Bayou General Store • Bar: Bayou Smokehouse & Grill • Sports Bar: Bayou Smokehouse & Grill • Night Entertainment: Bayou Smokehouse & Grill • Bartender : Bayou Smokehouse & Grill - Amy Hernandez • Gluten Free Restaurant: BE Scooped 2022 Best Of Avery County Winners DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Bethany Higgins accepted the award on behalf of VPC Builders, LLC, named Best Contractor, Best Fence Builder and Best Home Builders in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Donna McClellan accepted the award on behalf of Sugar Mountain Assisted Living, named Best Retirement Commu nity in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. SEE BEST ON PAGE 9
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 5THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY
DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE
Garrick Smith accepted the award on behalf of Reins Sturdi vant Funeral Home, named Best Funeral Home in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Edward Dean, Shayna V. Cole and Jason Lisk accepted the award on behalf of Premier Pharmacy, named Best Drug Store, Best Pharmacist and Best Pharmacy in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Jared and Suzanne Garland accepted the award on behalf of Mountain River Family Campground, named Best Family Campground in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE
Linda Wiseman, Lindsey Wiseman, and Jessica Boone accepted the award on behalf of Linville Falls Winery, named Best Winery in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE
Page 6 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY
DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 7THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Here when youneedus Treating mino rillnesses andinju ries ,inclu ding : •Colds and flu •Fever,sorethroat, co ugh and congestion •E ar and eye infections •Migraineh eadach es •Insec toranimal bites •Minor burns, cuts and rashes •Sinus infections and stre pthroat •S prains ,strains andminor frac tures •U rinar ysymptoms Additional se rvices: •COVID -1 9testing •Flu shot s •O nlinea ppointm ents •O n-site labser vice •O n-site x- ray •S port sphysicals •Vir tual urgentc are •Walk-inswelcome Urgent care services are closetohomefor the families of Aver yCount y. Open 7daysa week 10 a.m.–6 p.m. If yo ua re experie ncing life -o rlim b-th re atenin g sympto ms ,d on’t wa it .C all9 11 If youoralovedone needsmedical care fora minor illness or injury,you cantrust ourteamtoprovide high qualit y, convenient care,when youneeditmost. We care forpatientsofall ages –noappointmentnecessar y. 10 8ParkAve Ba nner Elk, NC 28 60 4 te l 828 .783 .918 3 balla dh ealth .org Urgentcare Open your smar tphone ca meraa nd sc an theQ Rcode to be take ndirec tly to theonlinescheduling tool
Page 8 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 20 22 THANK YOU For Voting Us Best Investment Firm in Aver yCounty! 20 22 Thank foryou 37 years! Open Thursday, Friday, andSaturday10:00 -6:00 Newland, NC (828)733-0186 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Marty Dellinger accepts the award for Best Politician on behalf of his mother, Avery County Register of Deeds Renee Dellinger, at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Logan Wolken accepted the award for being named Best Waiter in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Shayna V. Cole of Premier Pharmacy accepted the award for Best Pharmacist at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 9THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thank youfor voting for us! Best Plumbing Company PROFESSIONAL PLUMBING SERVICES &DRAIN CLEANING (828) 742-1777 www.plumbfastllc.net •plumbfastllc@gmail.com 20 22 Thankyou forvoting us the Best LocalElectronics Stor e In Aver yCounty! 2022 20 22 Voted Best WineryinAvery County • Ice Cream/Slushie Shop: BE Scooped • Musical Group: Boone & Church • Painter: Brian WebbWebb Painting • Flower Shop: Callista Flower Co. • Chinese Restaurant: Cam Ranh Bay • Japanese Restaurant: Cam Ranh Bay • Sushi : Cam Ranh Bay • Vegan Restaurant: Cam Ranh Bay • Vietnamese Restaurant: Cam Ranh Bay • Plumber: Plumbfast • Beer & Wine Store: Cruz Thru • Real Estate Agent: BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Aneda Johnson accepted the award on behalf of Avery Coun ty Heritage Festival, named Best Festival in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.SEE BEST ON PAGE 14
Chef Rupie, Kaye and Don Reinhofer accepted the award on behalf of Kaye’s Kitchen, named Best Buffet, Best Brunch, Best Home Cooking Restaurant, and Best Lunch Restaurant in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE
Page 10 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE
Sara Nelson, Llubayo Kaza, Elijah Kaza and Janet Nelson accepted the award on behalf of Plumbfast for Best Plumber at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Karen Avery, Richard Honeycutt and Dawn Honeycutt accepted the award on behalf of Ed ward Jones, named Best Investment Firm in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. Not pictured is Meredith Pitman. O’NEAL-SHUMATE
DAWN
Chuck Clark accepted the award on behalf of High Country Sales, Service & Rentals, named Best Used Car Dealer and Best Auto Sales Person in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 11THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY FORMERL Y BURKE HO SPICE AND PA LLIA TIVE CARE & CALD WELL HO SPICE AND PA LLIA TIVE CARE 82 8.7 54. 01 01 1.844.4AMOREM WWW.A MOREMSUPPOR T.OR G PR OUDLY SER VING ASHE , AV ER Y AND WATA UGA CO UNTIES SINCE 2014 THANK YO U FOR VO TING US BEST HO SPICE !
Page 12 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Get outside. Get Inspired. Folks come to Grandfather Mountain forall sorts of reasons —froma family getawaytothe thrill of theMileHigh Swinging Bridge. But after aday on the mountain, and some hands-on time in the newWilson Center ForNatureDiscovery,everyone leaves inspired. gr andf ather .c om Wonders Never Cease GR ANDFAT HER MOUN TA IN ® NEW WilsonCenter forNature Discovery NO WO PEN 20 22 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Lori Benfield accepted the award on behalf of Mountain Vision Florists, named Best Florist in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Tammy Johnson accepted the award on behalf of Kingdom Kids, named Best Day Care Center in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Tran Phan accepted the award on behalf of Hollywood Nails Spa, named Best Nail Salon in the 2022 Best of Avery Coun ty Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 13THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY THANK YOU AVERYCOUNTYFOR VOTING US BEST OF THE BEST VIETNAMESE AND JAPANESE RESTAURANT FOR 4YEARS IN AROW! & BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT,BESTSUSHI, & BEST VEGAN RESTAURANT of 2022! 110 High Countr yS quare, Banner Elk,NC28604 828-898-4121 www.CamRanhBayNC.com AuthenticVietnamese &JapaneseCuisineDine-In, Take-Out,Catering, Private Parties, Vegetarian &VeganFriendly 2 022
Page 14 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 503 Pineola Street Newland,NC (828)737-0314 It's what keeps our business going. You have ourendless gratitude. Thanks for your support! Breakfast, Lunch &Dinner! Mon -Tues- Thur -Fri -Sat 8am -2pm &5pm -8pm Sunday Brunch 8am -2pm Dottie Moretz - Elevation Realty • Chiropractor: Dr. Joe Nitti - Back in Action Chiropractic • Dentist: Dr. William H. Burrow, DDS - Self • Investment Firm: Edward Jones - Fi nancial Advisor: Richard A Honeycutt • Baker: Fred & Larry’s Coffee • Coffee Shop: Fred & Larry’s Coffee • Donuts: Fred & Larry’s Coffee • Music Venue: Fred & Larry’s Coffee • Coffee Roaster: Fred & Larry’s Coffee • Beauty Salon: Sugarbronze • Jewelry Store: Hardin Fine Jewelry • Auto Salesperson: High Country Sales - Chuck Clark • Car Dealer (USED): High Country Sales, Service and Rentals • Nail Salon: Hollywood Nails Spa • Furniture Store: Jones Carpet & Furniture • Brunch: Kaye’s Kitchen • Buffet: Kaye’s Kitchen • Home Cooking Restaurant: Kaye’s Kitchen • Lunch Restaurant: Kaye’s Kitchen • Day Care Center: Kingdom Kids Childcare • Skill Care Facility: Life Care Center of Banner Elk • Winery: Linville Falls Winery • Florist: Lori Benfield - Mountain Visions Florist • Seafood Market: Lowes Foods • Grocery Store: Lowes Foods of Ban ner Elk • Police Officer: Mike Henley - Avery County Sheriff • Golf Course: Mountain Glen Golf Club • Jeweler: Mountain Jewelers • Campground: Mountain River Fam ily Campground • Lawn Mower Store: Mountaineer Equipment Co Inc • Power Equipment Shop: Mountain eer Equipment Co Inc • ATV Shop: Mountaineer Equip ment Co. Inc. BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Abigail Creech, Libby Powell, Larry Jones, Gwen Jones, Natalie Jones, and John Morrison accepted the award on behalf of Fred and Larry’s Coffee, named Best Coffee Roaster, Best Donuts, Best Bakery, Best Music Venue, and Best Coffee Shop in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. Also pictured is Amy Hernandez, who accepted the award on behalf of Sugarbronze for Best Beauty Salon in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. SEE BEST ON PAGE 19
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 15THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thank you forvoting us the Best of the BestReal Estate Agency in Avery County, We appreciate the supportfor our LOCAL Agents! With 2office locations proudly serving Avery County BRRI -L inville Of fi ce 2155 Linville Falls Hwy . Linville, NC 28 657 828.73 3.9694 Nationally Connected •R egionally Recognized •L ocally Owned &O pe rated BRRI -B an ner Elk Office 110 Main Stre et West Banner Elk, NC 28604 828.737.3100 ww w. bl ue rid ger ea lt y.n et •i nfo@ brri. ne t DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Ed and Susan Hardin accepted the award on behalf of Hardin Fine Jewelry, named Best Jewelry Store in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Amy Hernandez, Lee Ammann, Britt Ammann and Easton Ammann accepted the award on behalf of Bayou Restaurant and Bayou General Store, named Best Sports Bar, Best Bar, Best General Store, Best Live Entertainment, and Best Bartender at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Page 16 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thankyou formakingus Best of theBest IceCreamShop and TheBestGluten Free Restaurant in AveryCounty! 144 Azalea Cir•Banner Elk (828) 504-0684 bescoopednc@gmail.com |bescooped.com 16 Hand Dipped Flavor-Malts-Milkshakes-Floats THANK YOUFOR VOTING VPC Best Home Builder,& Contractor 2022! 20 22 Builders RESI DE NTI AL AND CO MMER CIA L 828.295.0707 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Bailey Webb accepted the award on behalf of BE Scooped, named Best Ice Cream Stop and Best Gluten-Free Restaurant, and Brian Webb accepted the award on behalf of Webb Painting, named Best Painter in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Joel Stoeltzing, Tyler Blalock and Todd Combs accepted the award on behalf of Linville River Electric for Best Electrician in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 17THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY BANNER ELK www.artcellargallery.com Th e Ar ea ' s Fin est Artis ts Yellow Mountain Trophies, Tees &Awards 255 Estatoa Street, Newland, NC 28657 828.733.2944 Yellow Mountain TreasureBox 442 W. Mitchell Street, Newland, NC 28657 828.733.0149 Yellow Mountain Enterprises Thank youfor voting Yellow Mountain Enterprises the Best Non-ProfitOrganization andBestPlace to Work in Aver yCounty! Thank youfor voting Yellow Mountain Treasure Box the Best Secondhand Storeand the Best Place to Find aBargain in Aver yCounty! Thank youfor voting Aver yCountyGroup Home the Best Assi sted Living in Aver yCounty! 20 22 20 22 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Dottie Moretz with Elevation Realty accepted the award for Best Real Estate Agent at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Marley Turbyfill of Callista Flower Shop accepted the award for Best Flower Shop at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Zach Stamey and Kait Stamey accepted the award on behalf of Newland Cruz Thru for Best Beer and Wine Store at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Page 18 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Monday -Saturday 10am -5pm 920 Shawneehaw Ave |Banner Elk |828.898.4653 HARDINJEWELRY@GMAIL.COM 20 22 Thank Youfor Voting us Best Jewelry Store in Avery County 2022 Ruth Ann’s Pet Grooming 144 AzaleaCir SE |BannerElk,NC28604 (828) 260-4454 Thank youfor voting us Best PetGroomer in Avery County! Automagic Paint and Body 104 HardeesLane|BannerElk,NC28604 (828) 838-7472 20 22 Thank you forvotingus Best Body Shop in Aver yC ounty! Thank youfor voting Carol Anne and Jocelyn Yost theBest Yoga Instructors in AveryCounty! 436HospitalDr, Linville, NC 28646 (828) 737-5500 www.ymcaavery.com 20 22 Thank youfor votingWilliams YMCAthe Best Fitness Facilityin AveryCounty! DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Emily Singleton of Avery County High School accepted the award for Best Teacher in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Tracy Simms, Linda Cramblit, Trish Combs, Karen Cleghorn, Maria Norris, Tom Gidley, Jim Perry, Todd Rice and Bill Aceto accepted the award on behalf of Blue Ridge Realty & Investments, LLC for Best Real Estate Agency at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 19THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY • Pet Supply Store: My Best Friend’s Barkery • Insurance Agent: NC Farm Bureau - Barry Crawford • Auto Insurance Com pany: NC Farm Bureau Insurance • Insurance Agency: NC Farm Bureau Insurance • Insurance Agent: NC Farm Bureau Insurance - Travis Turbyfill • Camping Supply & Military Surplus Store: PackRats • Produce Shop: Pixie’s Produce • Pharmacist: Premier Pharmacy - Shayna V. Cole • Drug Store: Premier Pharmacy Inc. Thank youtoour localcommunity Weappreciate you! o e d Best Itali n Res aur , Bes Piz a Res aura , and Bes i gs! 3585 Tynecastle Hwy, BannerE lk,NC28604 (828) 898-9022 |bellasbannerelk.com 20 22 20 22 20 22 20 22 Vote d Best Breakfast! 142 Main St E, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-2594 BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 PHOTO SUBMITTED Callie Sheppard, Carla Burleson, Adam Estep, Abigail Buchanan, Elias Buchanan and Travis Turbyfill (Newland- not pictured: Donna Duncan); and Susan Johnson, Barry Crawford, Angela Jenkins (Banner Elk) were awarded Best Insurance Agency, Best Insurance Agent and Best Auto Insurance Agency in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. SEE BEST ON PAGE 24
Page 20 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 2022 3597 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-9877 Thank you for voting us the Best Nail Salon in Aver yCounty! 20 22 20 22 Head Stones,Address Rocks, PetStones, Decorative Garden Stones, Family Name Engraved Stones,Monuments, andmore. 6677 S. US 19EHwy. Newland, NC 28657 Office: 828-765-2611 Cell: 828-719-6249 Thank youfor voting us thebest monument compan in Aver yC ounty! 2022 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Emily Johnson Dellinger of Freedom Trail Elementary School accepted the award for Best School Principal in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Carol Ann Mitchell, Jocelyn Yost and Erin Spear accepted the award on behalf of Williams YMCA for Best Exercise Facility and Best Yoga Instructors in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 21THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thank you for voting us the Best Produce Shop in Aver yCounty! 3979 Mitchell Ave, Linville, NC 28646 (828) 640-6999 2022 BAYOU VILL AGE SHOPS DOWNTOWN BANNER ELK• 828 898 .T X L A (8952) FIND USON FACEBOOK! Best Bar Best Sports Bar Best Night Entertainment Best Bartender ~Amy Hernandez SMOKEHOUSE & GRILL RES TAURANT BAYOU GENERAL STORE Best General Stor U y B Thank you for voting us the Best DayCare Center! DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Charles Bailey of Avery Oil Exchange accepted the award for Best Oil Change in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Kyle Wilson, Keressa Clark and Julia Perry accepted the award on behalf of Baker Center for Primary Care, named Best Medical Practice in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Page 22 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 8555 SUSHwy 19E, Newland, NC 28657 |(828) 765-4810 www.mtnriverwnc.com Thank you for voting us the #1 campground in Aver yCounty! DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Donna Tate accepted the award for being named Best Nurse Practitioner in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Edward Hinson, Karen Powell, and Brent Keith accepted the award on behalf of Skyline Skybest, named Best Internet Pro vider, Best TV Dealer, Best Cable TV Company, and Best Telephone Company in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 23THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 2CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: BOONE MALL AND FOSCOE .828-963-5503 WWW.BLACKBERRYMAT TRESS.COM FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK THANK YOUFOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORTAND VOTING US THE Best Mattress Store in Aver yCount y We areproud to have helped so manypeople in the High Countr yRest Well and LiveBetter. Locally OWNED LOCAL COMMUNIT Y involvement 20 22 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Heather Jordan accepted the award for Best Physician’s Assistant / Nurse Midwife in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Cynthia Miller, Hank Taylor, and Jamie Stone accepted the award on behalf of Carolina West Wireless, named Best Mobile Phone Company in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Page 24 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 20 22 Thank you, Avery County,for voting Carolina West Wireless as the area’sBest Cellular Provider in 2022. We’reproud to keep you connected to everyone and everything you love. Visit your local Carolina West Wireless store and Go Stay Connected. www.carolinawest.com/stores The High Country’sChoice for Wireless! • Pharmacy: Premier Pharmacy Inc • Electronics Store: Ra dio Shack of Newland • Funeral Home: Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home • Pre-arrangement Agent: Reins-Sturdivant Funer al Home - Garrick Smith • Politician: Renee Dellinger - Avery County Register of Deeds • Monument Company: Spear Memorials • Car Dealer (NEW): Spruce Pine Chevrolet Buick GMC • Hotel/Motel: Stonewalls - Cornerstone Cabins of Banner Elk • Rental Agency: Stone wallsCabinsCornerstoneofBannerElk • Waiter/Waitress: Stone walls - Logan WolkenStonewalls Restaurant • Caterer: StonewallsMaggie James - Stone walls Restaurant • Wedding Venue: Stonewalls - The Barn at Cornerstone • Banquet Facility: Stonewalls - The Barn at Cornerstone • Chicken Restaurant: Stonewalls - What the Cluck?! Food Truck • Chicken Tenders: Stone walls - What the Cluck?! Food Truck • Food Truck: Stonewalls - What the Cluck?! Food Truck • Dinner Restaurant: Stonewalls Restaurant • Fine Dining Restaurant: Stonewalls Restaurant • Hamburger: Stone walls Restaurant • Salad Bar: Stonewalls Restaurant • Seafood Restaurant: Stonewalls Restaurant • Steakhouse: Stonewalls Restaurant • Restaurant Service: Stonewalls Restaurant • Food Service Worker: Stonewalls RestaurantAlly Sackman • Retirement Communit: Sugar Mountain Assisted Living • Tax Service: Taylors Taxes • Gift Shop: The Dainty Darling Boutique • Women’s Clothing Store: The Dainty Dar ling Boutique BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Donna Tate and Carol Smith accepted the award on behalf of Anorem, named Best Hospice in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. SEE BEST ON PAGE 29
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 25THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 20 22 Thank you for voting us the Best Florist in Avery County! Mountain Visions Florist 1361 SugarMountainDr#1, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-3486 www.bannerelkflowers.com DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Natalie Buchanan, Stephanie Roark, Madison Cummings, Renee Ingram, Angela Carver Ruppard, Elaine Crane, Dale Trivette and Dennis Quackenboss represented Yellow Mountain Avery County Group Home, accepting the award for Best Assisted Living Facility in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Dr. Thomas Haizlip accepted the award for Best Surgeon in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Page 26 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY We would like to thank all of our wonderful clients for their support! Br enna Car penter voted Best Cosmetologist 3990 NC-105 #2, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-2055 4 4 1 Sha wneeh aw Ave , Do wn town Banner Elk 8 2 8. 7 4 2 1 8 1 8 • cal lista f lowe rc o. com fres h fl oral ar ran gemen ts fo r pick up & de live ry home de cor & gi ft s A little something fo r everyone DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Crystal Nixon, Brenda Coffey, Ben Taylor, Brandon Winters, Dale Trivette, Dennis Quackenboss, and Debra Wilcox accepted the award on behalf of Yellow Mountain Treasure Box, named Best Secondhand Store and Best Place to Find a Bargain in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Deanna Griffith accepted the award for being voted Best Nurse in the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 27THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 107 Es ta to aS t, Ne wland ,N C2 8657 • (828) 733-0061 20 22 Thank you forvoting us the Best Pharmacy and Drug Store in Avery County! Thank you for voting Shayna Cole the Best Pharmacist! DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Day Watson with The Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy received the award for Best Physical Therapist in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Peter Liberatore accepted the award on behalf of Automagic Paint and Body, named Best Body Shop in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Ann Liberatore accepted the award on behalf of Ruth Ann’s Pet Grooming, named Best Pet Groomer in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.
Page 28 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 20 22 264 Sugar Mountain Rd. #2, Newland, NC 28657 •828-733-6249 Thank You Avery County for voting us the Best Retirement Community DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Jocelyn Ortiz was named Best Medical Assistant in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID A spectacular look at the mountains awaited visitors at the Appalachian View venue during the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 29THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 350 Pineola St, Newland, NC 28657 • (828) 742-15 Come in for ahot Hunt Brother’sPizza! Come andDrive Thru! 20 22 Thankyou forvoting us the Best Beer andBest Wine Store inAveryCounty! • Farm Supply Store: Three Nails Hardware • Hardware Store: Three Nails Hardware • Paint Store: Three Nails Hard ware • Contractor: VPC BuildersMatt Vincent • Fencing Company: VPC Build ers, LLC • Home Builders: VPC Builders, LLC • Assisted Living: Yellow Moun tain Avery County Group Home • Nonprofit Organization: Yellow Mountain Enterprises • Place to Work: Yellow Moun tain Enterprises • Place to find a Bargain: Yellow Mountain Treasure Box • Secondhand Store: Yellow Mountain Treasure Box • Exercise Facility: Williams YMCA of Avery County • Yoga Instructor: WIlliams YMCA - Carol Anne • Yoga Instructor: WIlliams YMCA - Jocelyn Yost • Hospice: Amorem Hospice • Nurse Practitioner: Donna Tate - Amorem Hospice • Hospital: Appalachian Re gional - Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital • Nurse: Appalachian Region al - Deanna Griffith - Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital • Family Doctor: Appalachian Regional - Dr. David KimmelElk River Medical Associates • Medical Doctor: Appalachian Regional - Dr. David KimmelElk River Medical Associates • Psychiatrist: Appalachian Regional - Dr. Eric Bishop, MD - Appalachian Regional Behav ioral Health • Family Doctor: Appalachian Regional - Dr. David KimmelElk River Medical Associates • Medical Practice: Baker Center for Primary Care • Medical Doctor: Appalachian Regional - Dr. David KimmelElk River Medical Associates • Physician Assistant: Appa lachian Regional - Heather Jordan - Appalachian Regional Healthcare • Psychiatrist: Dr. Eric Bishop, MD - Appalachian Regional Behavioral Health • Nurse: Appalachian Region al - Deanna Griffith - Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital • Surgeon: Appalachian Region al - Dr. Mark Steele - Charles A. Cannon Jr. Memorial Hospital • Surgeon: Dr. Thomas HaizlipTate Clinic • Surgeon: Appalachian Region al - Dr. Mark Steele - Charles A. Cannon Jr. Memorial Hospital • Psychologist: Eva TrivetteClark - Charles A. Cannon Jr. Memorial Hospital BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Pam and Mike McKay accepted the award on behalf of The Art Cellar, named Best Art Gallery in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. SEE BEST ON PAGE 32
Winners enjoyed a catered dinner from Stonewalls as part of the experience at the 2022 Best of Avery Awards. PHOTO
Chocolate mousse and banana pudding from Stonewalls alongside floral placements from Mountain Vision Florist adorned tables at the event.
PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID BY LILY KINCAID
Page 30 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 31THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 20 22 Thank youfor voting us the Best Insurance Agency and Auto Insurance Company in AveryCounty! Thank youfor voting Travis Turbyfill and Barr yCrawford the Best Insurance Agents in Aver yCount y! 570 CranberrySt Newland NC 28657 828-733-9617 9am-5pm Mon-Fri 98 High CountrySq. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-8566 8am-5pm Mon-Fri AveryCounty Farm Bureau 20 22 Thanksfor voting us #1 Golf Course in Aver yC ounty! Visit us at mountainglengolfclub.com •Book TeeTimes •2023 Tournament •Applications •Membership Info Mountain Glen Golf Cours e Golf Shop:828-733-5804 Main Office: 828-733-5809 mountainglengolfclub.com PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID AJT Editor Jamie Shell blesses the food before the award ceremony begins. PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID AJT Marketing Consultant Henry Volk recognizing the winners of Best of Avery.
Page 32 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Filters •Brake Repair •Windshield Wipers 187 Ash Street Newland, NC 28657 828.737.7901 Thank you for voting us the Best Oil Change in Aver yCounty! 20 22 Best Town Manager Rick Owen Best Town To Live Banner Elk The Town of Banner Elk THANK YOU Avery County for voting for us! 2022 • Physical Therapy: The Rehabilitation Center Physical Therapy • Rental Store: Avery Rent-All • Real Estate Agency: Blue Ridge Realty & Investments LLC • Art Gallery: Art Cellar Gallery • Mattress Dealer: Black berry Creek Mattress & Stressless Store • Mobile Phone Com pany: Carolina West Wireless • Physician: Dr. Thomas Kirkland - Medi Home Hospice • Tourist Attraction: Grandfather Mountain • Window/Door Store: J.A.C.K.S. Glass Inc. BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Marc and Lorah Young accepted the award on behalf of Blackberry Creek, named Best Mattress Dealer in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards. DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE Shannon Cook and Emily Johnson Dellinger accepted the award on behalf of Freedom Trail Elementary School, named Best School in the 2022 Best of Avery County Awards.SEE BEST ON PAGE 36
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 33THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 20 22 Icouldn’t e MOLAR thrilled to be voted BestDentist in Aver yCounty! Dr.WilliamHBurrow (828) 898-8343 2043 Tynecastle HwyBannerElk,NC28604 www.burrowdental.com PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID Bailey and Bryan Webb (left and center) of BE Scooped in Banner Elk socializing before the award ceremony began.
Page 34 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Aver yC ounty HER ITAG EF ESTI VA L Thank youfor voting us the Best Festival in Aver yC ounty! Come Join OurFamilyGathering And LearnMoreAbout Your OwnFamily ForMore InformationContact Aver yCountyHistoricalSociety&Museum 1829 Shultz Circle.Newland, NC 28657 (828)733-7111 Aver yCountyGenealog ySociety VISIT THE AVERYC OUNT YMUSEUM AND TR AIN DEPOT . G enealog .Authors .Books .Music .Food .Dance B est F 2022 Newland's most affordable auto repair and ser vice! Call now! (828) 742-1844 2900 Millers Gap Hwy,Newland, NC High Country Sales , Service, and Rentals 20 22 Thank you for voting us the Best Used Car Dealer, and ChuckClark the Best Auto Salesperson! Your Militar y&Outdoor Store Militar ySurplus Knives •Tools Camping &Spor ting Goods Thanks for 27 years 150 Linville St. Newland, NC 28657 828-733-3600 20 22 PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID Mountain Times publisher Gene Fowler watches on as Tommy Burleson gives one final note at the end of his speech for Best of Avery. PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID Todd Wright, director of jazz studies at Appalachian State University, playing saxophone with the High Country Jazz Trio.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 35THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thank You ForVoting Dott ie Moretz Best of theB estAvery Re al EstateAgent! 828-387-4600 Striving to Prov ide theBest Serv ice&CarePossibleto Ever yClient. Thank youfor voting Jones Carpet &Furniture the Best Furniture Store in Aver yCounty! Come andsee our new double sided mattresses, sofa’s andliving room furniture! RoyalKomfor tDoublesided QueenMattresses Onl y $595! Jones Carpet &Furniture 623828-733-4930 Eskona St. Newland, NC 2022 PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID Banner Elk Town Manager Rick Owen among others listening as Henry Volk recognizes the Best of Avery winners.
Page 36 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thank you forputting yourtrust in us and voting us Bestofthe Best in Avery Co unty! By AppointmentOnly (828) 733-9600 65 Orchard Lane Banner Elk, NC 28604 kevin@jacksglassnc.com J.A.C.K.S. GL ASS INC. 2022 Aver yC ounty, From thebottomofmyheart, Ithank you! Thiswas quite unexpected! It is an honortoser ve youall.May God blessyou all. Thanksagain, Dr.ThomasKirkland. Thank You • Electrician: Joel StoeltzingNew River Electric • Building Supply Store: New River Building Supply • Cable TV Company: SkyLine SkyBest • Internet Provider: SkyLine SkyBest • Telephone Company: SkyLine SkyBest • TV Dealer: SkyLine SkyBest • Pest Control Company: A1 • Appliance Store: Lowe’s Home Improvement • Cosmetologist: Brenna Car penter, Root Down Hair Studio • Tax Service: Taylors Taxes • Body Shop: Automagic Paint and Body • Pet Groomer: Ruth Ann Liberatore - Ruth Ann’s Pet Grooming • Jewelry Store: Hardin Fine Jewelery BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32 PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID Larry Jones of Fred & Larry’s Coffee in Banner Elk shaking Henry Volk’s hand before accepting his award. PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID The sunset at Appalachian View just after the event ended.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 37THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 2014 Tynecastle Highway, Banner Elk, NC Thank you for voting us 2022’sBEST APPLIANCESTORE 20 22 20 22 Thank you for voting me the Best Politician in Avery County! -Renee Dellinger, Avery Country Register of Deeds Thank you for voting us Best Chiropractor in Avery County! 2022 141 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk, North Carolina (828)898-9000 www.bebackinaction.com PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID Banner Elk Town Manager Rick Owen accepts his Best of Avery award from John Gohene.
Page 38 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY We Love Our AwesomeClients... THANK YOU! Providing PremierPest and TermiteControl Services Since1966 8487 ValleyBlvd|Blowing Rock,NC28605 828.264.4656 |w ww.a-1pc.com VotedBest Pest Control Company 565 Main Street East •Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828)-898-5484 aflooringoutlet.com When experience counts, let AFlooring Outlet, Inc. assist you with all of your flooring needs. In flooring, the choice has to be right! AFlooring Outlet, Inc. 2022 Thank Youfor Voting Us the Best Flooring Store in Avery County! PHOTO BY LILY KINCAID The fog began to roll in at Appalachian View as the event came to a close.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 Mountain Times Publications • Page 39THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY Thank youfor voting Freedom Trail Elementar ythe Best School, EmilyJohnson Dellinger the Best Principal, and EmilyS ingleton the Best Teacher in Aver yCounty! Aver yCounty BoardofEducation 775 Cranberr ySt, Newland,NC28657 (828)733-6006 20 22 20 22 20 22Thank youfor voting me the Best Electric al Contractor in Aver yC ounty! -JoelStoeltzing,LinvilleRiver Electric 828-260-7467 Equipment Rentals Sales Ser vice 828-898-6301 Thank you for voting us BEST RENTAL STORE 2022 2022 www.averyrentall.com DAWN O’NEAL-SHUMATE AJT Marketing Consultant Henry Volk jams on guitar with keyboardist Steven Davidowski with Todd Wright and his High Country Jazz Trio during the 2022 Best of Avery Awards.
Page 40 • Mountain Times Publications Wednesday, August 31, 2022THE BEST OF AVERY COUNTY 828-898-3115 The High Countr y’s Best Vacation Rentals Vote dBest Hotel/Motel Best Rental Agency 20 22 The High County ’s PremierFood Tr uck Experience Vote dBest ChickenTenders Best ChickenRestaurant Best Food Truck 828-898-3115 The High Countr y’s Best Spacefor Gatherings Vote dBest We ddingVenue Best BanquetFacility 20 22 P The High Countr y’s PremierSteak & Seafood Restaurant 20 22 VotedBestDinnerRestaurant Best Fine DiningRestaurant Best Hamburger Best SaladBar Best Seafood Restaurant Best Steakhouse Best Restauant Best Caterer Ally SackmanVoted Best Food Ser vice Worker LoganWolkenVoted Best Waiter/Waitress 828-450-3279 BannerElk,NC28604 www.whattheclucktruck.net 20 22
