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• Custom Room Planning • Creative Interior Designs
BERNHARDT FACTORY OUTLET 4916 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.313.0795 · outlet@bernhardt.com · Hours: Tues – Sat 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
KINCAID FACTORY OUTLET 4930 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.496.2262 · kfdo@la-z-boy.com · Hours: Mon – Sat 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. · Sun 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Numbers of Note ..................................................................................5 Highcountrync.com ..............................................................................6 High Country Host ................................................................................6 High Country Chambers of Commerce .................................................8 Banner Elk ...........................................................................................8 Our Towns .........................................................................................13 General Stores ...................................................................................20 Appalachian Ski Mtn ..........................................................................21 Beech Mountain Resort ......................................................................22 Sugar Coated .....................................................................................27 Blue Ridge Parkway ...........................................................................28 Grandfather Mountain Secret Season .................................................29 Winter Fishing ....................................................................................33 Take a hike ........................................................................................34 Snowshoeing .....................................................................................35 Make Way for Skis .............................................................................40 Snowboarding ...................................................................................41 Stay Warm on the Slopes ...................................................................42 Hawksnest .........................................................................................42 Tube the Day Away ............................................................................43 Choose-and-Cut ................................................................................46 Winter Driving ....................................................................................47 Mystery Hill .......................................................................................49 Tweetsie Christmas ............................................................................50 Holiday Fun ........................................................................................55 WinterFest .........................................................................................56 High Country Frescoes .......................................................................61 Spa Day .............................................................................................62 High Country Theater .........................................................................68 ASU Performances .............................................................................69 High Country Art Galleries ..................................................................73 Canine Camping ................................................................................76 Woolly Worm Predicts Weather ...........................................................76 Area Museums ..................................................................................79 Enjoy More Time Outdoors .................................................................83 Sledding ............................................................................................84 Shopping in the High Country .............................................................85 5 Reasons It’s Smart to use Credit .....................................................88 Pets and Holiday Gifting .....................................................................89 Keep Your Tree Fresh .........................................................................90 Are Poinsettias Poisonous? ................................................................95 How to Make Your Favorite Foods Healthier ........................................96 Winter Hiking .....................................................................................97 High Country Wines of Winter .............................................................98 Cold Brews for the Winter ..................................................................99 Winter Times Calendar .....................................................................102 Restaurants .....................................................................................108
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE There are feeder birds and then there are birds that just love to feed. This Blue Jay is a beautiful bird – even when it comes in and takes over the feeders.
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Welcome to your High Country
2018 Winter Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. Publisher Charlie Price Advertising Director Tom Mayer Editor Johnny Hayes Production Chief
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
Numbers of Note LAW ENFORCEMENT
(336) 246-9410
Watauga County
Avery County
Watauga County Sheriff’s Office: (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department: (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police: (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police: (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State Police: (828) 262-8000
Avery County Sheriff’s Office: (828) 733-3858 Banner Elk Police: (828) 898-4300 Elk Park Police Department: (828) 733-9573 Newland Police Department: (828) 733-2024 Seven Devils Police Department: (828) 963-6760 Sugar Mountain Police Department: (828) 898-4349 Beech Mountain Police Department: (828) 387-2342
Ashe County Ashe County Sheriff’s Office: (336) 846-5633 Jefferson Police: (336) 846-5529 West Jefferson Police:
HEALTH CARE Watauga Medical Center (Boone): (828) 262-4100
Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville): (828) 737-7000 Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson): (336) 846-7101 FastMed Urgent Care (Boone): (828) 265-7146 AppUrgentCare (Boone): (828) 265-5505 Blowing Rock Hospital: (828) 295-3136
ANIMAL CONTROL Watauga County Animal Control: (828) 262-1672 Watauga Humane Society (Boone): (828) 264-7865 Animal Emergency & Pet Care Clinic of the High Country (Boone): (828) 268-2833 Avery County Humane Society (Newland): (828) 733-2333
Rob Moore and Jason D. Balduf Layout Artists Emily Jones Prepress Production Meleah Bryan Creative Services Director Andy Gainey Circulation Manager Anna Oakes, Jamie Shell, Steve Behr, Kayla Lasure, Colin Tate, Carl Blankenship, Thomas Sherrill, Luke Weir, Ian Taylor, Sydney Wolford and Mackenzie Francisco Writers Mark Mitchell, Teresa Laws and Ron Brown Sales Kristin Obiso Creative Services
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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Your adventure might include a long trip on the Mountains-To-Sea Trail or a short trip on the Boone Fork Loop Trail; either way, enjoy the time spent in the outdoors of the High Country.
Highcountrync.com: Packaging your next winter adventure BY TOM MAYER
P
ackaging a High Country winter can be a daunting task. From where to stay to where to ski and everything in between, the options seem to stretch as tall as our mountains. Visiting https://www.highcountrync.com/ simplifies everything. It’s at this website you’ll find all that a High Coun-
High Country North Carolina live the adventure
try winter has to offer — where to stay, where to play, where to eat, shop or be entertained in addition to a seasonal calendar of events, a full marketplace and essential information such as where to find the closest urgent care. And, it’s there you can find a direct link to this publication — Winter Times on your phone or tablet. In planning your High Country adventure, highcountrync.com is your one-stop site. We’ll see you there — and on the slopes.
High Country Host guides newcomers while in High Country BY STEVE BEHR
I
t’s situated between Boone and Blowing Rock. It welcomes people to the High Country if they are traveling south on U.S. Highway 321. It’s the High Country Host, which sits on the corner of U.S. 321 and Edmisten Rock at 6370 U.S. Hwy. 321S, Blowing Rock, N.C. The building doubles as a welcoming post for tourists and for the welcome center for Appalachian Ski Mountain. A gift shop also exists in the building.
The building is open from Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Sunday. It is a good place to start when gathering information on lodging, restaurants, places to go and notices for current events. It also doesn’t just serve Watauga County. There is information on Alleghany, Ashe, Avery and Wilkes counties. High Country Host also has a website that has in formation about area attractions, dining and lodging options, places to shop and mountain cultural centers such as museums and craft centers. Information on other attrac-
tions such as outdoor recreation, such as ski resorts, golf courses, places to hike and go caving, horseback riding, fishing, biking and rafting and canoeing are also available at the website. Attractions can include places such as wineries, orchards, farm tours to family attractions, such as the mile high swinging bridge in Avery County. Restaurants include every type of meal, from fine dining to fast food and all types of restaurants between. For more information, call (800) 438-7500, or visit highcountryhost.com.
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LET US BE YOUR
Offering: Full Service Pharmacy • Durable Medical Equipment • CPap Supplies Oxygen • Respiratory Services • Immunization Clinic (including Flu Shots) Gift Shop • Soda Fountain & Grill (located in Boone Drug King St)
Visit One of Our Locations Today! Watauga: Boone Drug and Healthcare at Deerfield Boone Drug at Greenway • Boone Drug at King St Boone Drug at New Market • Village Pharmacy
Avery: Avery Pharmacy • Crossnore Drug
Check us out online at
www.boonedrug.com
Ashe: Warrensville Drug
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High Country Chambers of Commerce Our special and diverse small towns, breathtaking scenery, vibrant music and arts and genuine, hardworking people make Ashe County — the coolest corner of North Carolina — a wonderful place to live and work. Whether you are a longtime local, new Ashe resident or visitor exploring the area, the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center can provide a wealth of helpful information and materials. 01 North Jefferson Avenue, Suite C. PO Box 31, West Jefferson, NC 28694. (336) 846-9550. info@AsheChamber.com. www.ashechamber.com.
Avery is also home to the world-famous Woolly Worm Festival, one of the Top 10 fall festivals in the country. Activities flourish year round including hiking, biking, rafting, skiing, tubing, horseback riding, antiquing, golfing, gem mining and much more. The Avery County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center is located at the Shoppes at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and N.C. 184. They are open from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and are staffed with knowledgeable and friendly employees available to answer all your questions 4501 Tynecastle Highway, Unit 2, Intersection of NC 105 & NC 184 Banner Elk, NC 28604. (828) 898-5605. chamber@averycounty.com. www.averycounty.com.
Avery County Chamber of Commerce
Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce
Avery County is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where beauty, fun and adventure for the entire family thrive. This unique region has four distinct seasons and is home to the South’s highest summits.
Located in the heart of Banner Elk, the chamber of commerce promotes the area as a unique place to work, visit and live. The chamber offers information on area dining, lodging, shopping and attractions. Come visit us during our Winter
BY COLIN TATE colin.tate@mountaintimes.com
Ashe County Chamber of Commerce
Hours, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 100 W. Main St., Banner Elk N.C., 28604. (828) 898-8395. www.bannerelk.org.
Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or a vacation full of outdoor adventure, Beech Mountain has a lot to offer. As the highest town in the Eastern U.S., Beech Mountain is an ideal vacation spot in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Our elevation of 5,506 feet sets us apart during all four seasons. For lodging, dining, shopping and activity recommendations, call or visit the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce to make your stay a memorable one. 403-A Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain N.C., 28604. (828) 3879283. chamber@beechmtn.com. www. beechmountainchamber.com.
Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce Often described as the “Crown Jewel” of the Blue Ridge, Blowing Rock offers a small
town feel for the visitors who come to eat at one of the many restaurants or to shop downtown. The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce knows their community like no other and are always willing to share information with their visitors. The chamber can provide information on various lodging, dining, shopping and recreational activities in the area. 132 Park Ave., Blowing Rock N.C., 28605. (828) 295-7851. www.blowingrockncchamber.com. info@blowingrock.com.
Boone Area Chamber of Commerce The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the most active chambers in the area, with their commitment to tourism as well as solidifying Boone as a business hub. Located in downtown Boone on King Street, the chamber is a convenient stop to gather more information on the area during your visit. 870 W. King St., Suite A, Boone N.C., 28607. (828) 264-2225. www. boonechamber.com. info@boonechamber.com.
Banner Elk Large-town amenities with a small-town feel
BY LOGAN PARKS logan.parks@averyjournal.com
S
mall towns rarely draw much attention to themselves, but the town of Banner Elk, nestled at the base of Beech Mountain in Avery County, is not the typical small town. You may have heard of Banner Elk because of the annual Woolly Worm Festival, which attracted close to 20,000 people to the two-square-mile town last year — but once the final races end, weather predictions are made and tents
are packed up, what remains of Banner Elk? For this town, the Woolly Worm Festival is only one of a long list of events hosted by a community that cherishes residents, visitors and the surrounding area. Rarely is there a week without some event on the town’s schedule, whether it’s live music, fundraisers, theatre performances, art shows or farmer’s markets. With history tracing back to the Cherokee Native Americans, Banner Elk’s roots SEE BANNER ELK ON PAGE 9
PHOTO COURTESY TODD BUSH The Town of Banner Elk offers visitors from across the country a wide array of events, dining experiences and lodging opportunities as they make their way up to Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain Resorts.
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run deep. The area saw its first settlers in the mid-19th century and has been growing ever since. As the town grew, so did its aspirations. In 1900, Lees-McRae College was founded, and in 1911, the Town of Banner Elk was officially recognized by the N.C. state legislature. A century later, Banner Elk now sees a steady stream of tourists throughout the year. With Beech Mountain Resort to the north, Sugar Mountain Resort to the south and Grandfather Mountain looming above in the distance, the area’s beauty makes Banner Elk the perfect stop for those needing to stretch their legs and catch a breath. For those stopping by or looking for a place to rest up, Banner Elk is home to several restaurants and hotels. From fine dining to more casual eating, the town features 13 restaurants, each with its own style of cuisine. Located in the heart of the town is Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge, where guests can find a relaxed dining experience at their rustic bistro, grab a drink at the new tavern, or grab breakfast and fresh espresso in the morning.
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The town is also home to the following restaurants, among others: • Stonewall’s Restaurant • Sorrento’s Italian Bistro • Louisiana Purchase Restaurant • Bayou Smokehouse and Grill • Bodegas Kitchen and Wine Bar • Bella’s Breakfast • Dunn’s Deli • Puerto Nuevo Restaurant • Barra Sports Bar and Lounge • Cam Rahn Bay Vietnamese and Japanese Restaurant Among arts and entertainment attractions within the town is Banner Elk’s Ensemble Stage. For the winter season, Ensemble Stage will be performing “A Banner Elk Christmas,” which features a musical variety show of dancing, singing and comedy modeled after the Andy Williams and Bing Crosby television Christmas special of the 1960s and 1970s. Shows are scheduled for Dec. 7, 9, 14, 15 and 16. For those looking to escape the buzz of city life this winter, Banner Elk can provide a unique small-town experience while still offering a variety of fun activities for family and friends, all the while surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As the town’s motto implores, “Escape. Unwind. Indulge.”
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RE/MAX Realty Group is one of the top producing High Country real estate companies in Western North Carolina with only the most experienced and educated agents available to assist you.
Realty Group Conveniently located at The Shops at Shadowline in Boone 240 Shadowline Drive, Boone, NC www.NCBooneRealEstate.com (828) 262-1990 (Office) • (866) 652-1990 (Toll Free) Each office independently owned and operated
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Kevin is a rare find and we will without question continue to ask his help on our residential work needs.
The bottom line is that you would be hard pressed to find a better, more reliable builder than Kevin Walker.
- BRANDON MCCLUSTER
- DAVID AND JUDI DROBNER
- CHRIS POINDEXTER
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Classic Surroundings, Modern Amenities
Let Us Host Your Next Special Event! Chestnut Grille
828.414.9230
|
Divide Tavern
9239 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605
|
ESTD. 1882
www.greenparkinn.com www.greenparkinn.co
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Our Towns
o matter who you are, when you’re in the High Country, winter has something in store for you. Whether it’s the college town atmosphere that Boone provides, the shops in Blowing Rock, the sights of Beech Mountain or any of the other unique experiences provided by Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties, the High Country can be your getaway for a month or an afternoon. Here’s a brief guide to enjoying the entirety of the diverse mountain community that locals are fortunate enough to call home.
WATAUGA COUNTY BOONE No matter which activity draws you to the High Country, it’s likely that you’ll end up in Boone at some point during your visit. Boone is the hub of Watauga County, the gathering place for people of all walks of life, whether resident or visitor, student or retiree, socialite or seeker of peace and quiet. The town is home to Appalachian State University, one of the 17 colleges and universities that makes up the University of North Carolina system and draws more than 19,000 students. Interest in the school boomed after the Mountaineers’ football team won three consecutive NCAA Division I national championships in 2005, 2006 and 2007. The university’s presence helps create a young and friendly vibe throughout the town. Just make sure not to cross anyone by mispronouncing the name: It’s “App-uhlatch-un.” Adjacent to the university is King Street and the surrounding area, one of the town’s best shopping destinations. One-of-a-kind stores and eclectic boutiques dot the landscape, interspersed with art and craft galleries and a diversity of restaurants to suit almost any taste.
Departing from downtown, other shopping areas ensure that residents and visitors lack nothing in the way of modern conveniences. But Boone has an eye on its past, too. Named for the pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone, the town dates back to about 1800, when Jordan Councill opened a store on what is now King Street. In 1820, he opened a post office, and other homes and stores began to spring up nearby. When Watauga County was created in 1849, Boone was picked as the county seat. It remained a typical small town until the university began to grow in the 1960s. The historic Jones House Community Center, a relic of Boone’s storied past, is located right on King Street. The house was built in 1908 and was given to the town in the early 1980s. Today, the home is a go-to source for art and community functions. Boone is a town where old and new mix, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family.
For another dose of history, visit the renovated and restored Green Park Inn, a site on the National Register of Historic Places that has been a hotel since 1882. While clinging to the small-town charm and Southern graciousness of its past, Blowing Rock also includes about 20 hotels and inns and more than 100 shops. Find a place to park and spend the day on foot, exploring the shops and parks of downtown. Clothing, antiques, home furnishings, mementos and delicious treats will fill your shopping bags and your stomach as you examine the town’s treasures. Make sure to visit Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway on U.S. 321 to find namebrand items at outlet prices. The benches in Memorial Park at the center of Main Street make the perfect spot to settle down with coffee or hot chocolate and watch the world go by. The less-traveled Broyhill Park down Laurel Lane paints the perfect seasonal scene, complete with a gazebo and glistening pond. The trails surrounding Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Boone stays active even in the snowiest parts of Winter.
For more information, visit www. townofboone.net.
BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock manages to cram a ton of beauty and fun into just three square miles. The town’s name comes from an immense cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge, where the winds whip in such a way that light objects thrown over the rock float back to their owners. Anyone wishing to experience the phenomenon firsthand can visit The Blowing Rock attraction, which is open certain dates in winter, weather permitting, to showcase the town’s namesake and the Native American legend that surrounds it.
Lake offer another scenic stroll. The picturesque town of Blowing Rock is the perfect place to have an active vacation — or to relax and do nothing at all. For more information, visit www. blowingrock.com.
VALLE CRUCIS Just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity and serenity in a pastoral riverside community. The valley contains the site of the only known Native American village in the immediate area. The first European settler of Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, also built a fort in the area during the American Revolution. Today, the community offers several historic inns, art galleries, farms and
churches that provide service and comfort to all who enter. The Episcopal church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for the “Vale of the Cross.” The Valle Crucis Conference Center, on the National Register of Historic Places, stays busy with retreats for numerous groups, and Crab Orchard Falls is a short hike from the conference center. The original Mast General Store provides a central gathering space in the community, as it has since 1883. Residents appreciate the store for its post office, morning news and coffee, while visitors can also find gifts, apparel and souvenirs. Just down the road is the Mast Store Annex, which opened about 25 years later. Behind the annex is a gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas and sports fields. Valle Crucis also features its own art gallery. Alta Vista Gallery features more than 100 artists and shows one of the area’s largest selections of mountain landscapes. These works are original pieces in oil and watercolor as well as prints. Dining highlights include the Mast Farm Inn and Over Yonder. For more information, visit www. vallecrucis.com.
TODD Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties. The community’s main drag, Railroad Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours as it winds along with the New River, one of the few rivers in the world that flow north. Todd was the last stop of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad and got much of its supplies from the train. The Todd Mercantile features the work SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 14
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galleries and artisans. Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk each yeah for its Woolly Worm Festival, which attracts close to 20,000 people annually. Cutting between the peaks of Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain and Grandfather Mountain, the topography of the town provides natural definition and gentle undulation through the town’s boundaries. For more information or a calendar of events, call Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395, or visit www. bannerelk.org.
TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods, while also hosting monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking to excellent fishing for all four seasons. Several companies, including RiverGirl Fishing Company and Wahoo’s Adventures, have outposts near Todd to provide gear and instruction for anyone interested in hitting the river. For more information, visit www. toddnc.org.
FOSCOE Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. But don’t let its size fool you. The community is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun. If you’re shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company, or pan for gold with the Greater Foscoe Mining Company. Some of the High Country’s finest gourmet sandwiches and baked goods await at Eat Crow, while burgers, billiards and family fun are on cue at Country Retreat Family Billiards. Foscoe’s also home to one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic appearance of an old man reclining.
SEVEN DEVILS From elevations of some 5,200 feet, the town of Seven Devils straddles both Watauga and Avery counties. From many areas in the town, one has views of Grandfather Mountain, as well as Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Rich Mountain and Mount Rogers in Virginia. Seven Devils is just a few minutes from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis and can be found off N.C. 105. One of the smaller towns in the region, Seven Devils began life in the 1960s as
BEECH MOUNTAIN AMANDA LUGENBELL A crowd gathers for Bowing Rock’s lighting of the town.
the Seven Devils Resort, and, in 1979, the resort became incorporated as the town. How did it get its name? According to the Seven Devils website, “The L.A. Reynolds Industrial District of Winston-Salem, N.C., formed the resort in 1965, and the founders were met with the challenge of naming the resort. At this time, there was a rumor about an old man on the mountain who had seven sons ‘as mean as the devil.’ People were heard commenting that in the winter the mountain was ‘as cold as the devils’ or ‘as windy as the devil.’ “The founders wanted a catchy, unique name that would bring attention to the mountain. They noticed the repeated appearance of the number seven, including the seven predominant rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ‘devils.’ ‘Seven Devils’ seemed to suggest a frivolous, mischievous resort where people could ‘experience the temptation of Seven Devils.’” In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area. After the resort venture experienced financial trouble, the town was incorporated. While the golf course and ski slope have been closed for a number of years, Hawksnest has become one of the town’s centerpieces. Among the attractions at Hawksnest (www.hawksnest-resort.com) are zip lining and snow tubing. For more information and events at
Seven Devils, visit www.townofsevendevils.org.
AVERY COUNTY BANNER ELK The mountain valley town of Banner Elk has grown from a tiny hamlet to a town offering year-round amenities and memorable vacations for the entire family. Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A. with more than 900 students from more than 20 states and countries. The old stone buildings nestled across campus make for a photographer’s delight. The town hosts numerous shops and restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events. Visitors can picnic or walk in the town park, hear live music, enjoy exquisite shopping or simply relax by the mill pond and stay in one of the inns after dinner in a fine restaurant. Banner Elk is in the heart of the High Country’s many attractions, and just a short drive will take you to numerous natural settings where you can relax and revel in nature’s beauty. Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a celebrated summer theater program by Lees-McRae and art festivals by some of the area’s many
At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern North America. That means two things: When winter comes, it’s a great place to ski, and, even on the hottest day of the summer, it’s cool on top of Beech Mountain. Even when it’s steamy in the “lowlands” of 3,000-plus feet, the temperature stays comfortable. The rest of the world seems distant when you settle down on the front porch of a rental condominium and survey the magnificent view that is one of Beech Mountain’s trademarks. Beech Mountain is a four-season resort town. There are more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain. These range from rustic cabins to mountain chalets to luxury condominiums. When it’s time to eat, you can enjoy anything from a deli sandwich to pizza to a gourmet meal by candlelight. During the days, there are many specialty stores for shopping, a golf course, horseback riding, tennis, swimming and hiking. There are nearby canoe and raft runs that are among the best offered in the Eastern United States. Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain. Whatever your musical taste, you can find a spot to enjoy an after-hours scene. There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain. The mountain is so huge that much of it remains in a natural state, with rich forests dotted by rolling farmland. And it’s only a short drive from the “downtown” to the country or resorts. Take your pick. SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 15
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Our guess is if you spend some time in Beech Mountain, you’ll want to come back to do some real estate shopping. Or at least book a slopeside condo for the ski season. For more information, visit www. beechmtn.com.
CROSSNORE Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. The town is home to Crossnore Academy, founded by Drs. Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop. The Sloops traveled the steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to bring medicine to the people and convince farmers to let their children come to school. Because of poverty and distance, the Sloop school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them. It gained a national reputation for effectiveness in changing lives and in breaking the cycle of poverty, moonshine and child marriages of mountain families. Mary Martin Sloop eventually put these tales to paper in her autobiography “Miracle in the Hills,” which has since been used as the basis for a drama of the same name that takes place each summer in present-day Crossnore. The Sloops built a school, hospital, dental clinic and, eventually, a boarding school to give children the basis for an improved life. They brought to Avery County the first electricity, telephone, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloopses’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County. Today, Crossnore Academy carries on the work of the original school and has reclaimed the educational foundation beneath its commitment to give hurting children a chance for a better life. The school’s teachers enable it to meet not only the special needs of Crossnore residents, but also the needs of area students who live at home and whose educational needs are best met at Crossnore. The school is also home to Miracle Grounds Coffee Cafe & Creamery, a working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, Wi-Fi and more. Crossnore is famous for its Independence Day parade and celebration, and the town’s Meeting House is home to the Crossnore Jam, a series of gatherings
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Linville is home to a spectacular waterfall that is easy to get to and viewable in the winter months.
and concerts by local musicians on the first Friday night through the summer and fall months. For more information, visit www. crossnorenc.com.
ELK PARK The town of Elk Park borders the state of Tennessee and offers a unique visiting experience. From the old-time feel of Brinkley’s Hardware Store to the additional Lower Street antique shops and classic barbershop, Elk Park takes visitors back to a simpler time. The town’s original thoroughfare, Lower Street, and many businesses originated when Elk Park hosted a train depot for the old East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, better known as Tweetsie. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town. For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573.
LINVILLE The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville, who were reportedly killed by Cherokees in 1766. East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956. Linville has three country clubs in
the area: Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge, all open late spring to early fall. A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and the Linville Gorge wilderness area. For visitors considering making Linville a part- or full-time home, they can visit Linville Land Harbor, where units are available for sale or rent in a cozy community featuring its own golf course and amenities. A number of residents reside at Land Harbor part time, while others stay year-round to enjoy the beauty of the area’s four seasons. During the winter months, Linville is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snow-tubing destinations. Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain. The Grandfather Mountain attraction offers picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Grandfather Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities.
NEWLAND The highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913
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as the county seat of the newly formed Avery County. Its original name was “Old Fields of Toe,” because it is located in a broad flat valley and is at the headwaters of the Toe River. Newland was a mustering place for Civil War troops. Toe is short for “Estatoe,” an Indian chief’s daughter who drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe. A town of about 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The recently renovated courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops and churches and complete with a memorial to Avery County veterans. Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum. Exhibits in the museum, which is free to visit, include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County. During the autumn and fall months, visitors can check out the farmers’ market that meets on Saturday mornings outside of Newland Elementary School, and visitors traveling out of town can picnic or hike at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation spot sponsored by Newland Volunteer Fire Department. Heritage Park hosts rodeo events on weekends during the summer and is the permanent home for the county’s annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September. Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade through downtown, with decorations adorning the town reflecting the area’s rich Christmas tree industry. With a number of restaurants and boutiques downtown, Newland is a prime destination for dining and shopping, or just to stop in on a visit to nearby Roan Mountain, Tenn., or Grandfather Mountain. For more information, visit www. townofnewland.com.
SUGAR MOUNTAIN If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 18
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Plan an escape to Westglow Resort & Spa! Consistently ranked among the Top Destination Spas by Travel + Leisure, Westglow offers luxurious Day Spa Packages, unparalleled spa amenities, and elegant fine dining at Rowland’s Restaurant. Visit www. westglow.com for more information or call 828.295.4463.
Westglow Resort & Spa | 224 Westglow Circle, Blowing Rock NC | www.westglow.com| 828.295.4463
2018
2018
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Mountain. Offering more than just great skiing, Sugar Mountain also provides its visitors with an array of ways to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the High Country. One attraction in particular is the summer lift rides on Sugar Mountain. On weekends, weather permitting, visitors can ride the ski lift to the 5,300-foot peak of Sugar Mountain. The 40-minute round-trip ride features a spectacular view of the High Country and runs from Independence Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. If heights aren’t what you’re looking for, Sugar Mountain can also be seen on foot. With numerous trails that wind throughout the village of Sugar Mountain, you can see both the brilliant greens of the summer, the vibrant reds and yellows of fall, and the white of winter. The trails of Sugar Mountain are not just for those on foot. Many cyclists choose the village of Sugar Mountain for its variety of challenging and picturesque terrain. The village of Sugar Mountain also gives tennis and golf lovers an opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports in the beautiful mountain setting. With Sugar Mountain’s golf course, six fast-dry clay courts and full-service tennis pro shop, visitors will never be faced with the problem of finding something to do. Whether you come for a day or stay in one of the many comfortable lodgings the village has to offer, Sugar Mountain will soon become your destination for great outdoor fun. For more information, visit www. seesugar.com.
ASHE COUNTY CRESTON Located in the northwestern corner of Ashe County, Creston lies on the border of Tennessee. The curvy winding roads can offer travelers some of the most beautiful, scenic byways in the area. The Riverview Community Center is located off of N.C. 88 West in Creston and is home to festivals and other events all year long. Worth’s Chapel at Creston United Methodist Church is located in Creston and was listed as a National Historic Building in 2005. The chapel was built about 1902. The interior of the chapel is finished, in part,
FILE PHOTO Travel to West Jefferson around the holidays and you might run into Santa Claus.
with American chestnut wood, harvested before the blight reached the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.
FLEETWOOD Located just off of U.S. 221 between West Jefferson and Deep Gap, Fleetwood is home to great community gatherings at the Fleetwood Community Center and the local volunteer fire department. On your way to and from the busy towns of Boone and West Jefferson, stop by to look at local crafts, antiques and civic pride in Fleetwood.
GLENDALE SPRINGS Home of the breathtaking and awe-aspiring fresco painting by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Glendale Springs has become revered for its budding arts scene. The community has become a must for anyone visiting Ashe County. Proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway is an added bonus as winter sets in and colors begin to turn white.
GRASSY CREEK Just south of the North Carolina-Virginia border, Grassy Creek is a tightly
knit community that is dotted with smiling faces and countless rows of Fraser fir Christmas trees. Check out the sights around the nationally renowned New River, where you will also find the River House Country Inn and Restaurant for delectable dinners.
JEFFERSON A rich history, dating from 1799, lies in the picturesque town of Jefferson. Jefferson was founded prior to its counterpart, West Jefferson, and stood at the base of Mount Jefferson. The town was first known as Jeffersonton, but then became Jefferson, and was one of the first towns in the nation to bear the name of U.S. founding father Thomas Jefferson. The town is the county seat of Ashe and is home to the new courthouse, as well as the historic 1904 Courthouse. The Museum of Ashe County History is located in Jefferson and can be found in the 1904 Courthouse. The museum, through items collected and on display, offers a look at who the citizens of the county are, where they came from, how they got to the town, what did they do on
the way and where do they go next? Ashe County Park and Foster Tyson Park are also located in Jefferson, the former of which hosts a nationally celebrated disc golf course.
LANSING Whether you’re looking for a town reminiscent of the past or a town that offers whispers of tomorrow, the small, friendly town of Lansing beckons to travelers from near and far to visit and relax, while browsing its shops, trying some home cooking and tasting some locally made wine. The town, in the northwestern section of Ashe County, is 20 minutes from Jefferson and West Jefferson and only 45 minutes from Boone. Travelers can arrive in the town in less than an hour from Abingdon, Virginia or Mountain City, Tenn. The town has one stoplight, and several businesses line the street. Home-cooked meals can be found at Country House Restaurant, while pizza, sandwiches and salads, along with specialty teas and fresh roasted coffee, are available at Pie SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 19
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FILE PHOTO Ashe County is known for its Christmas trees.
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on the Mountain. The first post office in the town was established in 1882 and served a rural community, made up of a village and outlying farms until the railroad made its appearance, according to www.lansingnc.com. The economy and population began to take off by 1914 as the Norfolk and Western Railroad, better known as the Virginia Creeper, came to town. A big commodity for area residents was iron ore mined from the mountains. The railroad served as an avenue to transport the ore to markets in Richmond, Va., and Pittsburgh, Penn. During its history, Lansing had a cheese plant, clothing store, coffin shop, doctor’s office, bank and a restaurant, according to the town’s website. The cheese plant allowed area farmers to bring their goods to sell instead of having to travel into West Jefferson. The town was chartered and incorporated in 1928. Lansing faced two devastating fires in the 1930s and ’40s and faced Hurricane Hugo later that century. Despite these setbacks, the town continued to flourish and expand.
The Works Progress Administration built the Lansing High School in 1941, using local granite stone. The school still stands today. The scenic Virginia Creeper biking trail is available to visitors, as is the town’s park. For more information about Lansing, visit www.explorelansingnc.com.
LAUREL SPRINGS Another border community, Laurel Springs prides itself with small town charm and beauty that entices motorists from the Blue Ridge Parkway for a quick bite to eat before continuing their adventure on the scenic byway. Although it touches Wilkes, Alleghany and Ashe counties, Laurel Springs is never more than a 30-minute drive from the listed county seats. Also, be sure to stop by the Thistle Meadow Winery for individualized tours of a family-owned wine business.
WEST JEFFERSON With a thriving arts district and Christmas trees galore, West Jefferson makes its mark on the High Country as a destination for locals, as well as visitors. The town was built around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot during the early 1900s. According to the town’s history, the first ownership of the valley now
known as West Jefferson began in 1779 when N.C. Gov. Richard Caswell granted 320 acres to Col. Ben Cleveland, who battled the British at King’s Mountain. More than a century later, the West Jefferson Land Company surveyed the new town and fixed its limits as a square one-half mile north, south, east and west of the Virginia-Carolina Depot. The town was chartered in 1915. The town’s initial growth came through the railroad, but early development was also spurred by the opening of the First National Bank of West Jefferson in 1915. The bank’s branch office, built in 1962, is now home to West Jefferson Town Hall. The town continues to thrive today and has a little something for everyone. Those visiting the town can browse one of the many art galleries, gift shops and retail stores. West Jefferson is home to many varieties of artwork, from paintings and photographs to sculptures and quilted items. More information about the area’s art district can be found at the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave., just
off of East Main Street. The center is home to the Ashe County Arts Council, which sponsors a variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year. A popular spot in the town is the Ashe County Cheese Plant where visitors can see cheese made and go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese Store to purchase a variety of cheeses, from cheddar to pepper jack and the celebrated cheese curds. Old-fashioned snacks and candies and locally made wines can also be purchased at the store. The cheese plant is open yearround and located at 106 E. Main St. in West Jefferson. Just outside West Jefferson, in the Beaver Creek community, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church can be found. The church is the location for a fresco of Jesus on the cross by renowned artist Ben Long. A painting of Madonna with child also hangs on the sanctuary wall. Local eateries and cafes offer all sorts of tasty treats, coffee, spirits and more, from one end of the town to the other. For more information, visit www. visitwestjefferson.org.
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General stores Offering unique High Country shopping opportunities BY COLIN TATE colin.tate@mountaintimes.com
CONTACT INFORMATION
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here are many distinctive features about the High Country. The weather, the food and even the gift shops and stores that allow visitors and locals the opportunity to take a piece of the mountains back to their own home. Here are some of the High Country’s best general stores and unique shops.
Here’s how to contact and learn more about the various general stores in the High Country:
Molly Northern Interiors and The Bee and the Boxwood Gifts Molly Northern is a native of the High Country, as she was raised in Boone. Northern developed a keen interest in decorating her home with panache at a young age, observing the decoration from her mother, Bain Winkler. Combined with a love for art, Northern pursued the passion professionally, achieving a degree in Housing and Interiors at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. While briefly staying off the mountain in Hilton Head, South Carolina, Northern returned and went into business with Darlene Parker, creating Northern Parker Interiors in Banner Elk. However, Northern needed to branch out into her own venture, starting Molly Northern Interiors in early 2017. While Molly Northern Interiors works with design, The Bee and the Boxwood houses the many gifts offered at the store. According to the website, at the gift store, you will find a curated collection of beautiful gifts and home accessories, all chosen with the charm and warmth of the Southern lifestyle in mind. The store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Mast General Store Quite simply, there is no other business in the High Country that is more famous than the Mast General Store. With three High Country locations, the landmark provides food items, clothing, winter gear and much more. The original location sits in Valle Crucis, and is still the center of the community. According to the website, the Original Mast Store houses the post office and of-
PHOTO SUBMITTED The Mast General Store has a massive variety of olde-time and new-age provisions.
fers up a five-cent cup of coffee. Traversing its creaking floorboards, you’ll find country gourmet foods, cast iron cookware, speckleware, old-fashioned toys, footwear for all walks of life, hardware and even a pair of galluses, if you need them, according to mastgeneralstore.com. Not far from the original location sits the Mast General Annex. An outlet store, this can be a key place to find discontinued or discounted Mast General Store items. The third and final High Country Mast General Store sits on the corner of King Street and Depot Street in downtown Boone. A tourist-favorite, the store is one of the sure-stops on any visit to the heart of the college-town.
Banner Elk Consignment Cottage Deep in the mountain resort town of Banner Elk, just 17 miles from Boone, the Banner Elk Consignment Cottage is a sought out store in the area. While Banner Elk often attracts a large group of people during the summer months, most people only stay at their summer homes for fourto-five months. Instead of hauling their replaced fine furniture back to their primary homes far away, people bring them to Susan Brown at the consignment cottage for resale. Brown is very selective in what she accepts and chooses to sell, which only increases the customer trust. In turn, the constantly-changing stock offers a potential for multiple visits to the store
resulting in various shopping experiences. No two visits are alike. Brown and her employees are nice and knowledgeable, as they offer high-end, used furniture at a discounted price.
Fred’s General Mercantile With no major box stores in the area, Fred’s General Mercantile, a sundry item-filled general store, has been serving Beech Mountain for almost four decades. The main store consists of a grocery store, hardware store and clothing store. Fred’s can outfit the entire family for a weekend vacation, according to their website. The grocery is a fully stocked grocery store that carries everything from canned goods to gourmet foods. The hardware section features Stanley tools, Laclede tire chains, screws, nails, nuts, bolts and more, per fredsgeneral.com. The company also takes advantage of their location by offering guest quarters for rent and ski and snowboard rentals. The store is also a great location to find information on all of the many nature sights, trails, mountain views and local events throughout the year.
The Blowing Rock Attraction Gift Shop As North Carolina’s oldest tourist attraction, The Blowing Rock is a unique geological formation putting the visitors atop the Blue Ridge Mountains. The location also overlooks Johns River Gorge and Pisgah National Forest.
Molly Northern Interiors and The Bee and the Boxwood Gifts 215 Boone Heights Drive, Suite 300, Boone (828) 386-6212 thebeeandtheboxwood.com Mast General Store (Three Locations) Downtown Boone 630 West King Street, Boone (828) 262-0000 mastgeneralstore.com Original Store 3565 N.C. 194, Valle Crucis (828) 963-6511 mastgeneralstore.com Mast Store Annex 2918 Broadstone Road / N.C. 194, Valle Crucis (828) 963-6511 mastgeneralstore.com Banner Elk Consignment Cottage 414 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk (828) 898-5733 Fred’s General Mercantile 501 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain (828) 387-4838 fredsgeneral.com The Blowing Rock Attraction Gift Shop 432 The Rock Road, Blowing Rock (828) 295-7111 theblowingrock.com
The Blowing Rock Attraction is open daily in November and December and every day but Tuesday and Wednesday from January to March from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Due to the flume from the gorge below and the cliff above, wind is always present at the attraction. Sometimes snow can even fly by upside down. Since 1933, The Blowing Rock has been an attraction in the High Country. However, no trip to The Blowing Rock is complete without stepping in the Blowing Rock Attraction Gift Shop. Here, you can find a nice momento to further add to your memories in the High Country. The shop has had a long time to stock items that families find worthy, including toys, locally-made items and souvenirs to celebrate your trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Appalachian Ski Mtn Blowing Rock’s skiing and snowboarding staple BY THOMAS SHERRILL
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tarting this winter in Blowing Rock, Appalachian Ski Mtn. will open its slopes for the 57th time and become a place where falls will happen, skills are learned and memories can last forever. Operational since the early 1960s originally as the Blowing Rock Ski Mountain, the tract was bought at auction by Grady Moretz and four other partners on Dec. 4, 1968, according to ASM’s history and has remained in the Moretz family ever since.
After reopening as ASM in 1969, ASM has become one of the most popular ski mountains on the east coast, attracting thousands each season ranging from beginners to experts. With 12 slopes, the longest being half a mile, and featuring a mix of beginners, intermediate and advanced, ASM caters to all different levels. The slopes themselves are taken care of on a regular basis, with snow making and grooming
a constant during the season. ASM tries to minimize snow-making during skiing hours. The mountain is home to the French Swiss Ski College, which has taught more than 1 million people to ski or snowboard. The school was founded in the winter of 196869 by Jim Cottrell and continues to teach skiing or snowboarding by the hundreds. For those who aren’t interested in
getting on the slopes, that ASM has a scenic 200-foot observation deck to watch most of the slopes, plus an open fireplace in the restaurant area. Outside on the main lodge, ASM has an ice-skating rink, which is the only Zamboni-maintained ice rink in the region. ASM opened in November. The season varies, but the mountain typically is open between 95-130 days through March or April, weather depending. For more information, visit www. appskimtn.com.
Early Dusting
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Watauga County has had some early snows this year. This is on Sugar Loaf Road on the Western end of the county.
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Beech Mountain Resort Updated and ready for winter BY LOGAN PARKS logan.parks@averyjournal.com
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erched atop the border of Watauga and Avery counties sits Beech Mountain Resort, where those who seek an outlet for excitement and fun can find ample opportunity to show off their snowboarding and skiing skills, or simply sit back and enjoy the view with dinner and a drink. Beech Mountain Resort offers guests a variety of wintertime activities to participate in, including snow tubing, ice skating and a terrain park for snowboarders and skiers. It features a total of 19 slopes of varying difficulty with a carrying capacity of 10,858 skiers/snowboarders per hour in order to ensure that every guest has all the time they need to ride the slopes. For beginners, the resort offers unique learn-to-ski programs for youth and adults. The first-time, all-day programs offered for children ages 3 to 14 are all-inclusive, and allow aspiring wintertime sports enthusiasts an effortless way to learn. In preparation for this year’s busy winter season, the resort has recently upgraded two of its chair lifts to optimize its ability to carry thrill-seeking guests to the top of its pristine slopes, more than doubling its uphill capacity. In addition to chair lift upgrades, Beech Mountain Resort has also added 115 new slope lights and four new snow guns in order to give guests the best experience possible. “This is a big improvement,” Talia Freeman, director of marketing for Beech Mountain Resort, said. “I think we’re set for a good year.” The resort first opened in the winter of 1967-68 and was the only resort in the state to be built around an alpine village, which still remains true to this day. At 5,506 feet in elevation, the resort provides a one-of-a-kind experience with a Swiss Bavarian village vibe.
PHOTO COURTESY BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT John Paul Pardy of Boone shreds the gnar during last season’s Banked Slalom event.
For those looking for an adrenaline rush, “The Park” — the aptly named terrain park that debuted two years ago — offers experienced skiers and snowboarders a chance to hone their skills. The terrain park crew is constantly reshaping more than 50 features to ensure that riders always get the chance to try something new. “The Park” also hosts numerous competitions for those eager to display their hard-earned talents. Scheduled activities this year include the following events: • Dec. 9 — Reckless Rail Jam presented by RECESS
• Feb. 23 — Banked Slalom 2019 • March 10 — Easy Does It! Presented by RECESS Aside from skiing and snowboarding, the resort will also be hosting a 25-show, three-month concert series during the winter months, featuring a wide array of talented musical artists. Headlining the concert series will be the Grammy-award winning bluegrass/rock group The SteelDrivers, previously led by Chris Stapleton before he began pursuing his solo career. Only six of the concerts during the series will be ticketed, and the other 19 will be free for the public. The series kicks off on Dec. 15. The resort village also offers four restaurants, two sport shops, a full rental facility and wireless internet, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful views and wintertime experience throughout the stay at Beech Mountain Resort.
MORE ABOUT BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy., Beech Mountain, NC 28604. For ticket prices, up-to-date conditions, group rates, lodging, directions, live music events, group and wedding bookings, or for additional information, contact the resort by calling (828) 387-2011 or (800) 438-2093, clicking to www.skibeach.com or emailing info@skibeech.com
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Sugar coated: Sugar Mountain Resort is a High Country hot spot in the cold months BY CARL BLANKENSHIP
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ugar Mountain Resort is one of The High Country’s main ski resorts and a standby in the region that has all your carving needs this
winter. The slopes at sugar range in difficulty, so whether you’re a beginner or a veteran skiier, you can find something to suit your experience level. When the trip you’ll find skiing and snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, guided tours on snowshoes, racing and several varieties of lessons for those who would like to pick up some instruction before taking to the snow. Visitors should also dress warmly and in waterproof clothing if you are going out on the slopes. Ski goggles are also advisable to prevent trouble seeing due to sunlight reflecting off snow. Sugar features ample dining options, with a large cafeteria, a snack bar and The Last Run Lounge on site and a number of eateries immediately surrounding the resort and in nearby Banner Elk. If you aren’t making a day trip you’ll find plenty of places to stay and plenty of things to keep you occupied for your entire trip that will fit your budget. PHOTO COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT There is parking on site and a shuttle ser- Sugar Mountain Resort has upgraded its snowmaking system to further enhance the snow sports experience for visitors this winter season. vice on Hwy. 194 to ensure a lack of space won’t keep you from hitting the slopes. This the resort continually upgrades its equipment, and this year is no exception. This year the resort has three new groomers and five new snow making machines, along thirty-percent more water capacity Tickets can be for said machines. It has also upgraded its bought in advance rentals with replacements for 20 percent or at the gate and slope-goers can of its ski and ski boot rentals, and has rent all the equipreplaced half of its rental snowboards and ment they need. snowboard boots. The Sports and Gift Lift tickets are Shop has also been expanded to 2,320 feet sold separately as Festivals, events and special clinics desired. All prices by top athletes also dot Sugar Mountain can be found at Resort’s horizon, be sure to check out the www.skisugar. PHOTO COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT FILE PHOTO com. or call (828) events listed on the resort’s website to Tubing is one of several options for winter Sugar Mountain Resort’s Kim Jochl (left) and Gunther 898-9521 sports lovers at Sugar Mountain Resort. find out everything it has to offer and the Jochl, right, skiing alongside former NC Gov. Pat McCory upcoming events. on Sugar Mountain’s slopes.
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Blue Ridge Parkway A sightseeing staple, regardless of season
WINTER TRAVEL TIPS How to drive in the snow Slowly and surely is the key to remember when driving through the snow — common sense is crucial. Allow plenty of stopping time, avoid tailgating and do not drive when conditions are dangerous, stay home instead. Forcing the gas will cause a spin-out. Accelerate gently for best results. Conversely, slamming the breaks will cause a car to slide out of control. In the event of fishtailing, turn into the the slide rather than against it — the opposite of what one might think.
BY LUKE WEIR luke.weir@mountaintimes.com
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egardless of season, the Blue Ridge Parkway is many motorists’ go-to drive for High Country sightseeing. Stretching across 469 miles of Appalachian mountainside from Cherokee, N.C., past Asheville, Blowing Rock and Boone into Virginia’s plateau and northern ridge regions, there is no shortage of views along the Blue Ridge Parkway and its scenic overlooks. While autumn, spring and summer are busier seasons for the many campsites and visitor centers along the parkway that close during winter, the road itself is open year-round, weather permitting. Unlike main roads that are salted and plowed during winter months to make for safer travels, the Blue Ridge Parkway is neither salted nor plowed, and sections of the road are periodically closed off due to adverse conditions in times of wintry weather. Parkway rangers stress the use of common sense when traversing the Blue Ridge Parkway during winter months, which means taking it slow along the road — minding the 45 mph or lower speed limit — and watching out for ice, snow or other obstructions. Because the parkway is neither salted nor plowed, snow and ice can persist long after snowstorms have been cleared from main roads — especially under the parkway’s shadier stretches. Weather can change quickly in the High Country, especially during winter. It is imperative to monitor the forecast and be prepared for the potential of impending winter weather — a set of snow tire chains and emergency safety kit in the trunk never hurts to have handy along the parkway, or on any other High Country road, for that matter. On a clear day, the Blue Ridge Parkway is less traveled during winter than in warmer months, resulting in a quiet,
Be prepared for winter travel
PHOTO COURTESY BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY During the winter months, portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway are covered with snow and ice for longer periods of time, as Parkway roads are not plowed or salted during the season.
peaceful drive across the hilly Appalachian countryside. From higher overlooks during perfectly clear weather, those with hawk eyes — or average sightseers with a decent pair of binoculars — may be able to see as far as the Bank of America Corporate Center in uptown Charlotte. Otherwise, buildings in Hickory are visible looking down the mountain on days with good visibility. When the parkway is closed off to vehicles, an opportunity arises for walking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing the tranquil highway without fear of cars. Additionally, when it is open to traffic, those hankering for a cold-weather hike can park at an overlook and slip along one of the many trails off the Blue Ridge Parkway — keeping an eye out for ice patches along the way. The Price Park Picnic Area at milepost 296.4 and the Museum of North Carolina Minerals at milepost 331 are both open year-round when the parkway is accessible, in addition to the Folk Art Center at milepost 382 and the Peaks of Otter Lodge at milepost 86. For more information on the Blue Ridge Parkway, call (828) 298-0398 or 1 (800) PARK-WATCH, or go online to www.blueridgeparkway.org or www. nps.gov/blri.
A few helpful items kept handy in the trunk can save winter drivers a lot of trouble in a pinch: a set of chains and a snow shovel can save you from being stranded, while a blanket, a flashlight, water, nonperishable snacks, extra clothing, spare socks and boots will make getting stuck for a spell significantly more comfortable.
MILEPOSTS OF NOTE (LISTED NORTH TO SOUTH) 248.1: N.C. 18 crossover. 2 miles west of Laurel Springs. 24 miles east to North Wilkesboro. 261: N.C. 16 crossover. West 12 miles to Jefferson, 14 miles to West Jefferson, 26 miles to Grassy Creek. East 20 miles to North Wilkesboro. 268: Benge Gap. 272: E.B. Jeffress Park. Picnic area, comfort station, trail to Cascades. 276.4: Deep Gap. U.S. 421 crossover. West 11 miles to Boone. East 26 miles to North Wilkesboro. 291.9: U.S. 221/321 crossover. 7 miles north to Boone, 2 miles south to Blowing Rock. 292.7: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, 3,600 acres. Many miles of horse and carriage trails, hiking, fishing. 294: Historic Flat Top Manor House; Parkway Craft Center; comfort station; visitor information, publications. 295: Julian Price Memorial Park. 4,344 acres. Campground, picnic area, lake, boating, fishing, trails. Altitude 3,400 feet. Reservations for camping www.recreation.gov. 304.4: Linn Cove Viaduct Information Center. Visitor information, comfort station, publications. Trail access viaduct. Altitude 4,000 feet. 305.2: Junction parkway and U.S. 221. 3 miles west to Linville. 308.2: Flat Rock parking area. Self-guiding nature trail to superb view of Linville Valley and Grandfather Mountain. 312: N.C. 181 crossover, 32 miles southeast to Morganton, 2 miles north to Pineola. 316.3: Linville Falls. Visitor Center. Campground and picnic area. Trail to overlooks of falls and gorge. For camping reservations, visit www.recreation.gov. 316.4: Linville River Parking Area. One of the parkway’s largest stone arch bridges. Three spans of 80 feet each. Fish in Linville River. Picnic area. Comfort station. Altitude 3,250 feet. Take Spur Road to Linville Falls, campground and visitor center. 317.4: South 1 mile to Linville Falls community. 24 miles to Marion. 320.7: Chestoa View offers an unusually fine view from one of the many vertical cliffs on Humpback Mountain. 331: N.C. 226 crossover. 6 miles north to Spruce Pine. 14 miles south to Marion. 331: Museum of North Carolina Minerals. Junction of parkway and N.C. 226. Features minerals found in North Carolina and regional geology. County chamber of commerce office. Restrooms. Open daily year-round. 331: Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail — commemorates the campaign leading up to the American victory at Kings Mountain in 1780. Route crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap, near the Mineral Museum. Administered by the National Park Service, www.nps.gov/ovvi.
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‘Secret Season’
and more accents winter at Grandfather BY JAMIE SHELL editor@averyjournal.com
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ach year, thousands of visitors flock to the High Country to take in the scenic wonder that is Grandfather Mountain. While the vast majority of tourists visit the mountain during the spring, summer and fall seasons, those who choose to come during the winter months are in for a unique experience during what GFM staff refer to as the mountain’s “secret season.” “Winter is a time to see the mountain in a completely different light, both literally and figuratively,” GFM Stewardship Foundation Director of Marketing and Communications Frank Ruggiero said. “It’s often a little more secluded, it’s a little more quiet and you beat all the crowds that you normally find in spring, summer and fall. Oftentimes, when you’re out there on a nice winter day, it feels like you have the entire mountain to yourself.” While the landscape may look dramatically different, visitors can enjoy many of the same attractions that are hallmarks of the mountain’s offerings, albeit with a seasonal touch. From crossing the MileHigh Swinging Bridge and visiting the animals in their habitats to exploring the GFM nature Museum and grabbing a bite to eat at Mildred’s Grill. “Grandfather Mountain becomes a veritable winter wonderland during the colder months,” Ruggiero said. “Rime ice coats the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, the otters frolic on their frozen pond and the mountain itself seems extraordinarily peaceful.” Of particular interest this winter are some newer additions to the animal habitats adjacent to the Nature Museum. After the Mountain’s white-tailed deer passed, GFM began converting their habitat to be suitable for elk, a species once native to the area, as evident in place names such as Banner Elk, Elk Park and Elk River Falls. “Our environmental habitats aim to show people what these creatures would look like in their natural environment,”
PHOTO BY SKIP SICKLER | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION While the landscape may look dramatically different during wintertime, visitors can enjoy many of the same attractions that are Grandfather Mountain’s hallmarks.
WINTER DEALS AT GFM Secret Season Pass — Allows unlimited access to the mountain during from Nov. 1 through April 30, 2019. Cost is $32 per adult and $18 for children ages 4 to 12. Secret Season Group Pass — A group pass, good for up to six people traveling in the same vehicle, is available for $90. December Dollar Days — Residents of Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga and Wilkes Counties can access the park for $3 per person, with proof of residence, during the month of December. In lieu of $3, the park will also accept three cans of food to be donated to charity. Ruggiero said. “Almost all of our habitats are built around the animal’s native environments, meaning we didn’t have to import rocks and vegetation.” Animal lovers will also want to check out the mountain’s recently renovated cougar habitat, home to big cats Aspen, Logan and Trinity. While the bears will be in hibernation for most of the season, with the exception of some groggy wakeups on warmer days, the otters are ex-
ceptionally playful this time of year, and have been known to frolic in the snow and play “ice hockey” on the frozen pond in their habitat. For those seeking unique gifts for the holidays, the mountain’s gift shop offers unique gift opportunities, including local arts and crafts, GFM merchandise and homemade fudge made on-site using sustainable practices. For the true animal lover, there are also adoption
and sponsorship opportunities that will directly benefit the creatures who call the mountain home. “You can symbolically adopt an animal and give that to someone as a gift,” Ruggiero said. “Depending on the level of adoption, they’ll receive a special box that could include a plush animal, an adoption certificate, a biography of the animal, a cast footprint and more.” “Grandfather Mountain is an incredible place to visit in any season,” Ruggiero said. “Be it sun, snow, fog or rain, the mountain’s perfect for making mile-high memories.” For more information on how to adopt an animal, visit www.grandfather.com/ preserving-protecting/adopt-an-animal. SEE GRANDFATHER ON PAGE 32
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PHOTO BY HUGH MORTON | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION At Grandfather Mountain, winter is often referred to as the ‘secret season,’ as fewer crowds and the accompanying quiet make the mountain feel like one’s own personal winter wonderland.
GRANDFATHER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29
PHOTO BY HELEN HOPPER | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Aspen, a Western cougar, explores his snowy habitat at Grandfather Mountain.
For frequent visitors to Grandfather, the Secret Season Pass allows unlimited access from Nov. 1 through April 30, 2019. At $32 for adults and $18 for children ages four to 12, each pass costs less than the price of two regular tickets. A group pass, good for up to six people traveling in the same vehicle, sells for $90 plus tax and pays for itself on the first visit. The Secret Season passes are available at the Grandfather Mountain entrance gate. “Whether your interest is snapping shots of snow-dusted evergreens, sipping soup from Mildred’s Grill or just savoring the solitude, the Secret Season Pass is the most affordable way to do it,” Ruggiero said. While the mountain offers a variety of specialized winter programs for visitors,
the scheduling of those activities had not been finalized as of the printing of Winter Times. For an updated schedule of programs, click to www.grandfather. com/plan-your-visit. Weather permitting, Grandfather Mountain is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day in winter, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. In cases of severe weather, the park opening is delayed until all roads and paths can be cleared of snow and ice. In particularly bad weather, the park may close or open “halfway” to the Nature Museum, during which guests can enter for half price. A phone call to the entrance gate at (828) 733-4337 can confirm the day’s conditions and set the stage for a memorable outing. “We’re a fun place to visit, no matter the weather,” Ruggiero said. “It’s always beautiful here, regardless of the season. We just continue to do what we can to bridge education and outdoor fun.”
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Winter fishing keeps anglers at the water BY STEVE BEHR
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t takes somebody who enjoys fishing and doesn’t mind a little bit of attitude from Mother Nature to take on the High Country’s streams and lakes. When many people prefer the warmer temperature when it comes to fishing, going fishing in the winter time takes a special type of fisherman. That person has to be patient, hearty and, of course, love to fish. Of course, those who fish in the winter have a definite advantage to those who just venture to the lakes and streams when it’s warm. Winter fishers don’t have to battle those warm-weather anglers for fishing spots. “The appeal to me is being out in nature with the fall leaves,” said outdoorsman and avid fisherman Tommy Oakley, who is a member of the Land Harbor Fishing Committee. “The trout is much more active in the winter time or in the late fall or early winter. It gives you a much better feel catching the trout when the fish are jumping out of the water and they have a lot more fight to them.” The winter fisherman do have to show a little more patience than their summer counterparts. For starters, fish don’t necessarily stay active once the water gets colder. Many different types of fish that were active in the summer will often go into a hibernation mode and stay still instead of swimming around, or at least they aren’t as active. Trout in the High Country, according to Oakley, are more active in the winter than in the summer. Fish are certainly not as active when it comes to finding food. Fish will also find warmer areas to escape the colder water, but they will still be active enough to find food, so smaller bait or flies to lure the fish to the hook should be used. Bugs in the stream, which are potential food for the fish, are also not as big in the winter. That’s why the flies used to lure fish must be smaller. It’s a com-
GET YOUR GEAR Appalachian Angler 174 Old Shull’s ill Road Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 96305050 www.appangler.com FILE PHOTO The High Country has plenty of opportunities to fly fish. Check the listings on this page to help in finding your next fishing hole.
mon mistake for people to use the same sized flies they use in the summer time and the fish will not go to them. Of course, it’s a good idea to bundle up when going to fish in the winter. Insulated waders are important as are a good pair of insulated boots. From there, long johns and flannel shirts are recommended. Wool socks sometime worn with some hand-warmers near the toes can help keep winter fishermen warm. “You have to layer and wear the right gear as far as your waders or whatnot,” Oakley said. “You have to dress for the cold. The other part is to have good equipment and good lines so things don’t freeze up real bad, because that can happen also.” There are a couple of ways to fish during the winter in the High Country. There is actually walking into a stream or river, which can be uncomfortable if not properly dressed. Precautions must be made to fish in the rivers, which can get a cold as 50 degrees or lower. If that’s a bit too cold to take, an-
glers can simply fish from the banks of the stream. It’s easier to do this in the winter than the summer since the surrounding trees don’t have as many obstacles to get in the way of somebody trying to cast a line. “You don’t want to stay in the water too long if you don’t have the waders,” Oakley said. “It can get too cold.” The sheer volume of people trying to fish in the winter than the summer can also provide opportunities to catch fish. Since not as many people come up to the High Country looking to go fishing, most places will not be nearly as crowded. “You can kind of get away by yourself with nobody else around,” Oakley said. “It’s also a big deal.” The types of fish available vary. Trout is the most plentiful fish available, but rock back and small-mouth bass are available in local streams. Brim is also a popular fish to catch in the winter. Valle Crucis Park is generally a good place for people to start. Todd Island Park on the New River is another good place to try winter fishing.
Elk Creek Outfitters 1560 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-6497 www.ecoflyfishing.com Foscoe Fishing C. & Outfitters 8857 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-6556 www.foscoefishing.com Grandfather Trout Farm 10767 N.C. 105 Banner Elk 28604 (828) 963-5098 www.grandfathertroutfarm.com Rick’s Smallmouth Adventures 1757 Pleasant Home Road Sparta, N.C. 28675 (336) 372-8321 www.fighthenew.com River Girl Fisher Co. 4041 Todd Railroad Grade Road Todd, N.C. 28684 (336) 877-3099 www.rivergirlfishingco.com Watauga River Fly Shop 5712 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5463 www.wataugariveranglers.com
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2018
Take a hike to stay active during winter BY ANNA OAKES
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t’s winter in the High Country, but there’s no need to put those hiking boots away for the season. With the right gear and the right attitude, you’ll be rewarded with the unique experiences of cold-weather hiking, including different views, different colors and different sounds than you’ll encounter in other seasons. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, updated in November 2018, adults need 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity each week, with muscle strengthening activities on two days during the week to stay healthy. Youth ages 6 through 17 need 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day. “The new guidelines demonstrate that, based on the best science, everyone can dramatically improve their health just by moving — anytime, anywhere and by any means that gets you active,” said Adm. Brett P. Giroir, M.D., assistant secretary for health, in a statement. “When we move more, we have better cardiovascular health, we are stronger and less susceptible to disease, and we feel better. The updated guidelines include evidence-based strategies that leaders across the nation can use to help Americans fit more physical activity into their daily lives.” Hiking is an opportunity to be physically active in the winter with no specialized skills required, as well as minimal gear. Hiking shoes or boots with good tread are recommended, although sneakers may be sufficient on trails that are relatively smooth. If there’s a chance you might encounter ice or snow on the trail, you can add traction devices with spikes or cleats to
PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES Winter hiking can be invigorating. The Beech Tree Trail at Elk Knob State Park is covered in snow in December 2017.
the bottoms of your shoes. Layering is crucial for winter hiking. You’ll appreciate the added warmth as you start your trek or as you use less effort going downhill, but you’ll want to shed layers as you get moving and especially when working harder on inclines. You want to avoid buildup of too much sweat, which will be chilly — and potentially dangerous — when your body cools back down in cold temperatures. Avoid cotton garments, as they do not wick moisture as effectively as synthetic or wool. Covering your head, ears and hands with hats, headbands
and gloves will ensure your comfort and keep you outside longer. Trekking poles are optional, but may be preferred on certain trails to improve your hiking rhythm, add stability and balance and reduce strain on your legs and knees. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water, and you’re all set to go hiking! The following trails are generally easily accessible in the winter, although some highways — such as the Blue Ridge Parkway — can close temporarily during snowy or icy weather. • Price Lake Trail: An easy
trail leading around scenic Price Lake for 2.7 miles. The trailhead is at the Price Lake parking area, Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 297.0. • Moses Cone Park Carriage Trails: Easy to moderate. The Moses Cone Park includes 25 miles of gently sloping carriage trails of varying lengths, available to hikers, joggers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. Trails can be accessed from Bass Lake (on U.S. 221 near Blowing Rock) or from the Moses Cone Manor (Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 294.0). • Boone Greenway Trail:
Boone’s Greenway Trail offers about four miles of paved trail as well as opportunities to increase distance via connections to Appalachian State’s Kennedy Trails and to Watauga County’s Brookshire Park. For more information, visit townofboone. net/town-parks-greenways. • Beech Mountain Emerald Outback: Several trails in the Emerald Outback trail system can be hiked in Beech Mountain. There are nearly seven miles of trails for mountain biking, trail running, hiking and winter snowshoeing. For more information, visit emeraldoutback.com.
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Snowshoeing:
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All you have to do is walk
BY IAN TAYLOR
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peaceful walk through the snow can be a highlight in many people’s winter memories. Maybe it’s with a loved one, a pet or just some friends. The problem with walking in the snow however, is the actual walking in the snow part. Hiking boots, hunting shoes and other forms of footwear just won’t do the trick. They can keep you warm, but there’s often not enough traction or they just can’t get it done at all. Snowshoeing provides the best way to enjoy a walk through a winter wonderland in the High Country. Created more than 6,000 years ago out of branches and hide, the modern versions still do the same thing. Now made of plastic, aluminum and other modern materials, snowshoes distribute a person’s weight to keep them from sinking deep in the snow, allowing them to walk through a winter wonderland with ease. According to Buckeye Recreation Fitness Coordinator Kate Prisco, snowshoeing offers a fun way to go outdoors with some added benefits. “It’s actually a really good workout,” Prisco said. “People get back and they’re taking off their jackets because they’ve broken a sweat, which is hard to do this time of year.” All you need to get started is standard winter gear, a jacket, warm pants, gloves, hats and appropriate footwear. Snowshoes themselves are ratcheted onto your boots or shoes similarly to connecting skiing equipment, and you’re done. Some people like to have walking poles with them for added stability, like carrying a walking stick when hiking. Snowshoes range in price from $80 up to over $300, depending on how much you want to get into it. Many resorts offer snowshoe rentals as well. The High Country offers two places where people can get into this ever-growing activity. Beech Mountain offers rental snowshoes for those who want to go off on their own or have a guided tour, while Sugar Mountain Resort offers guided tours for adults and children.
PHOTO BY TODD BUSH | COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Snowshoeing can be a leisure activity, or turn into a race between friends.
SNOWSHOEING OPPORTUNITIES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY Snowshoeing opportunities are available at the following locations: Buckeye Recreation Center 1330 Pine Ridge Rd, Beech Mountain Cost: Free for half of a day (828) 387-3003 www.beechmtn.com/things-to-do/winter-sports/snowshoeing Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr, Sugar Mountain Cost: $30 per person, $23 after March 4 Tours are for ages eight and up. 1-800-784-2768 www.skisugar.com/snowshoeing
at a time, giving renters adequate time to explore all of the trail options. Also free are the guided experiences, which can be arranged by calling 24-hours in advance. Buckeye does not offer childrens’ sizes of snowshoes however. One of many trail options is the Emerald Outlook trail near the top of the mountain. The trail is open year-round and is not just a great choice or trail runners, hikers and mountain bikers, but its 50-mile vistas are a great reward for snowshoers as well. Another snowshoeing option is the onethird of a mile walking track which winds around the Buckeye Recreation Center.
SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT BEECH MOUNTAIN The Beech Mountain Parks & Recreation Department offers snowshoe rentals
for use on 30 miles of town-maintained trails at the Buckeye Recreation Center. Rentals are available free for a half-day
Sugar Mountain Resort, just outside of Banner Elk, offers customers guided snowshoeing tours as a way to introduce
them to the activity. Each tour is one hour long and includes a snowshoe rental. Tours at Sugar Mountain are available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 3 p.m.; Saturdays at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Adult tours are for ages 12 and older. Children’s tours are available for eight to 11-years-old. The cost of a snowshoeing session, including snowshoe rental, at Sugar Mountain is $25. Of course, snowshoeing can be enjoyed practically anywhere accessible with enough snow cover, which is at least three to four inches of snow, according to Prisco. Prisco added that the more snow there is, the easier it is to get around. Some good spots to go snowshoeing include trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway and trails at Moses Cone Manor on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Blowing Rock.
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Make sure your business is included in the High Country’s Most Popular Tourism Magazines in 2019! Contact Mark Mitchell today! 828-264-NEWS (6397)
2018
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2 NEW QUAD CHAIRLIFTS | NEW LED LIGHTING | MORE SNOW MACHINES B E E C H M O U N T A I N R E S O R T . C O M
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Dishner Developers, Inc. Construction • Development • Real Estate
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Craftsmanship, it's in our name... From design concept to final reality, we strive to incorporate materials from an era gone by into everything that we do. Each furniture piece and every single home we build is uniquely different. When it comes to Rustic design, we're confident we can exceed your expectations and give you a project that has a true "presence from the past." We have partnered with RDLG to offer land home packages at the beautiful Linville Falls Mountain Club.
Mountain Craft Woodworks & Construction, LLC (828) 263-3709 www.MountainCraftWoodworks.com Visit our Retail Store in Mountain City, TN
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Fallen leaves make way for skis BY LOGAN PARKS
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s temperatures continue to drop and fall slowly creeps into winter, skiers are dusting off their equipment and looking ahead to the moment when they finally arrive in the High Country to shred its various slopes. Home to several high-end ski resorts, the High Country thrives during the wintertime. It won’t be long before skiers from across the state and beyond make their way to these resorts, eager to once again feel the rush of icy cold wind as they carve down the mountain. As one of the oldest modes of snow traversal, it’s difficult to pinpoint when exactly skiing became such a popular recreational activity. Regardless, its accessibility for riders young and old allows it to thrive, and the High Country’s various resorts give these riders plenty of options to choose from. If you’re new to skiing, each resort in the area offers training programs so that you can quickly acquaint yourself
SLOPE TERMINOLOGY “Gnar” — Short for “gnarly,” meaning “cool” or “rad.” Also used to refer to that which is shredded. “Shred” — The act of carving one’s way down the mountain, typically in an impressive or gnarly way. “Pizza-ing” — The technique for stopping oneself while skiing, done by angling the front tips of both skis towards one another. Often times seen on the bunny slope as the only means of travel. “Wipe Out” — Used to refer to a rather unsettling fall. Use these terms on the slopes and no one will think twice about your skills — until you hop off the lift, of course. with the sport. You’ll likely spend most of your first day awkwardly “pizza-ing” down the bunny slope, but don’t worry, you won’t be the only one. Other skiers and snowboarders might zoom past you with a superior swoosh in their slide, but SEE SKIING ON PAGE 41
PHOTO COURTESY BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Skiers have long-awaited this time of year to finally get back on the slopes and spend the day gliding across frozen waves of powder.
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Snowboarding in the High Country Snowboarders come out to play during winter BY CARL BLANKENSHIP
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he slopes are about to be ripe for shredding, and snowboarders will be ascending upon the High Country in droves to enjoy the ski season on their preferred tool for the job. The increasingly popular mode of snow traversal is a major draw for the High Country, which houses several highly regarded ski resorts. As fall winds down, resort goers will be chomping at the bit for some cold weather accompanied by some powder. “Snowboarders get excited and people know they get excited,” J.P. Pardy, owner of Recess Skate and Snow, said. “Once the cold weather hits, the resorts open pretty quickly.” Snowboarding may have a reputation for appealing to the younger skater-type crowd and is a popular medium for doing tricks, but these days you can find snowboarders of all ages bombing the hills. If you want to rent a board and try your hand, you can expect to take some tumbles, but lessons are available for those wanting to breeze past self-taught and possibly avoid digging some of their own powder ditches. If you do decide to give it a try, whether you are skiing or snowboarding, it’s vital to rent the proper-fitting gear. Nothing ruins a day on the slopes like boots that don’t fit properly. You can pick up rentals from a number of shops around the area, as well as at the resorts themselves.
SKIING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 40
at one time, they, too, found themselves struggling to figure out how to stop. Everyone has to start somewhere. Before giving it a try, make sure you
WHERE TO SNOW BOARD Appalachian Ski Mountain 940 Ski Mountain Road Blowing Rock, NC (828) 295-7828 www.appskimtn.com Beech Mountain Resort 1007 Beech Mtn Parkway Beech Mountain, NC (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain, NC (828) 898-4521 www.skisugar.com Make sure you hit the slopes when you desire, with the added expectation of decent weather as a bonus. It isn’t worth missing your shot at a great time because you are waiting around for the best powder day of the year. Snow makers help extend the seasons and make up for unfavorable precipitation by keeping the slopes well stocked. There is no experience required to go have fun out there. For more information on local ski mountains, including rates, slope conditions, open dates and specials, click to www. appskimtn.com, www.skisugar.com and/ or www.beechmountainresort.com.
have proper-fitting gear. Items such as proper boots and bindings are essential in order to ensure your safety. Rentals can be found at a number of shops around the area, and resorts themselves will also have rental shops. Keep in mind also that you don’t have to wait for the perfect snow-covered day.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Snowboarding tricks can be much like tricks attempted by skateboarders. FILE PHOTO A snowboarder takes advantage of ideal conditions to cut a swath through the powder at the local slopes.
Resorts are equipped with their own snow guns, allowing them to produce as much powder as needed to satisfy the needs of every gnar-shredder out there, as long as the temperature is low enough. For the more experienced skier, resorts also feature their own terrain
parks, allowing you to improve and show off your prowess. Each resort offers a collection of slopes of varying difficulty in order to accommodate every rider. To learn more about local ski resorts, rates, conditions and schedules, click to www.skisugar.com, www.beechmountainresort.com or www.appskimtn.com.
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Staying warm on the slopes BY MACKENZIE FRANCISCO
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ny skier or snowboarder knows that there’s nothing more miserable than being cold on the slopes from wet
clothing. Snow in North Carolina tends to hold more water than snow in the western part of the United States, so wearing water-resistant gear when you hit the slopes is crucial. Kristen Gray, an employee at Edge of the World snowboard shop in Banner Elk, recommended that all skiers and snowboarders begin their ensemble with a base layer of clothing made of moisture-wicking material so the body temperature doesn’t fall from the wet clothing. “This is really important for beginners because they tend to sweat more,” Gray said. “Avoid cotton at all costs because it traps water.” Socks are also key warmth and comfort. Gray recommended a sock made out of a wool blend that wicks moisture away, but also isn’t too thick and will trap
the moisture. Not only do socks guarantee warmth, but wearing a quality sock made out of a sturdy material will also provide skiers and snowboarders with a little more cushion in their boots. Gray recommended any jacket made out of Gore-Tex because the material is water resistant and wind resistant for those sprees down a black diamond, or rides on the ski lift. “Gore-Tex jackets also trap body heat, but they aren’t big and puffy,” Gray said. Gray said adding a layer of Thinsulate to any jacket can increase its effectiveness. Thinsulate is a brand of synthetic insulation that can be inserted into most articles of clothing and keeps the body warm and dry. Skiing and snowboarding are popular pastimes in the High Country during the winter months. Wearing clothing to prevent sickness and discomfort on the slopes is instrumental, but wearing a helmet or hat is also recommended for safety purposes. Winter can be brutal, but with the right gear, your skiing and snowboarding experience doesn’t have to be.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Wearing a helmet and goggles is important to safety on the slopes.
Hawksnest brings winter family fun BY MACKENZIE FRANCISCO
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awksnest has been a premiere destination for winter family fun in the High Country for more than 50 years. Located in Seven Devils, Hawksnest opened as a ski resort in 1964. According to co-owner Lenny Cottom, Hawksnest closed its slopes for skiing in 2009 and began to offer snow tubing during the 2009-2010 winter season. Hawksnest is now the largest snow tubing park in North Carolina. Guests may travel down four different snow tubing areas that boast more than 30 lanes for all levels that range from 400 feet to 1,000 feet in length. Cottom said no prior snow tubing experience is required for their lanes, but suggested beginners use the shorter lanes on their first few trips. “Since we do offer four different areas
SNOW TUBING PRICES Monday – Friday: $30 per session Saturdays and holidays: $38 per session Sunday: $38 per session. Tickets may be purchased in advance online on Hawksnest’s website. Day-of tickets are available at the park on a first-come first-serve basis. for tubing, tubers aren’t getting the exact same ride each time,” Cottom said. Snow tubing sessions at Hawksnest last one hour and 45 minutes, and Cottom said Hawksnest is offering an additional conveyor lift this season. After making their journeys down the mountain, tubers can board one of three conveyor lifts to bring them back to the top. SEE HAWKSNEST ON PAGE 43
PHOTO COURTESY OF HAWKSNEST TUBING PARK Born to ride, this young tuber looks ahead as she glides down a tube at Hawksnest Tubing Park.
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Tube the day away BY CARL BLANKENSHIP
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ave you ever sat in a tube in a pool and enjoyed relaxing and kicking around as you gently rock around in the water? Have you ever wanted to take a similar air-filled device and pilot it down a snow-covered slope. That’s snow tubing.
SNOW TUBING MOUNTAINS Hawknest Tubing Park 2058 Skyland Drive Seven Devils (828) 963-6561 www.hawksnesttubing.com Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing 9472 N.C. 181 Newland (828) 733-4155 www.jonasridgesnowtube.com Appalachian Ski Mountain 940 Ski Mountain Road Blowing Rock (828) 295-7828 www.appskimtn.com Beech Mountain Resort 1007 Beech Mtn Parkway Beech Mountain (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain (828) 898-4521 www.skisugar.com “Pretty much anyone can enjoy it, you need to be at least 3 years old to do it (at Hawksnest)” Lenny Cottom of Hawksnest Tubing Park in Seven Devils said. It’s a fast ride, but it’s fun and easier to
HAWKSNEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42
The fun isn’t limited to the daytime; all of Hawksnest’s lanes are fully lit, allowing tubers to continue their journeys up and down the mountain as the sun goes down. If you’re planning a visit to Hawksnest, Cottom said it’s crucial to dress in layers, a hat, gloves and goggles to remain warm, safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your visit. Hawksnest offers rental bibs for guests and a gift shop with
PHOTO BY HAWKSNEST Snow Tubing at Hawksnest offers the thrill seeker dozens lanes of downhill fun.
get into than hitting the ski slopes. You don’t need any experience and it requires very little physical exertion from the tuber, just follow the slope’s safety rules. Much like skiing and snowboarding, you need to dress for the occasion. It may be frozen, but it you will still be flying over water and anything absorbent will get soaked with freezing snow. So wear warm,
non-absorbent layers and ski glasses or goggles so you can see when you hit the slopes. You’ll also want to plan ahead, as sold out slopes at peak times are not an unusual sight. Sessions vary in length depending on where you’re tubing depending on where you’re tubing, so be sure to check out resort
websites to find the what you want. There are a mix of different snow tubing locales in The High Country. Jonas Ridge and Hawksnest are both tubing exclusive, while Ridge are dedicated snow tubing locations. Appalachian Ski Mountain, Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain also have tubing mixed in with their snow-traversing activities.
souvenir gear. Snow tubing at Hawksnest is open from Monday through Thursday with sessions beginning every two hours from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Sessions on Fridays and Saturdays begin at 10 a.m. and run every two hours until 6 p.m., and run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Sundays. After a long day on the slopes, guests may enjoy Hawksnest’s three-story lodge. The lodge offers refreshments, a deck that overlooks the slopes and an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing after a fun-filled day.
THE SNOWBIRD TOUR
months, the Snowbird Tour is an ideal option for those looking to change up their Hawksnest experience. The cost is $40 per session, and children must be over 5 years old to participate. Riders must not weigh more than 250 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches.
When the snow melts and the temperature rises, Hawksnest offers zip lining tours that allow guests to experience the thrill of flying alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains. Snow tubing serves as Hawksnest’s primary attraction during the winter season, but an extension of their summer zip line tours is offered in the winter months — the Snowbird Tour. The Snowbird Tour features four cables allow riders to experience an aerial view of the park during their 45-minute session. Offered exclusively during the winter
MORE INFORMATION To learn more about what all Hawksnest has to offer this winter or purchase tickets, visit www.hawksnesttubing.com, or call (828)963-6561. Hawksnest is located at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils.
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EDGE WORLD OF THE
SNOWBOARD SHOP REPAIR & DEMO CENTER (828) 898-9550
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WINTER TIMES
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Choose-and-Cut Christmas trees offer an experience W
BY COLIN TATE
hen driving through the mountains of the High Country, one will often find lines of Fraser Fir Christmas trees extending for acres. According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, North Carolina has approximately 1,300 growers producing Fraser Fir Christmas trees on an estimated 40,000 acres, most of which are in the High Country. The Sexton family, owners of Sexton Christmas Tree Farm and Frosty’s Choose and Cut in West Jefferson, has been growing Christmas trees since 1960, according to co-owner Matthew Sexton. “We love doing Christmas trees and providing that for people during Christmas,” Sexton said. “There’s nothing like seeing a family getting together, coming out in the field and picking Christmas trees out for their home.” According to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, growers in Ashe County have approximately 14,000 acres of Christmas trees in production amounting to approximately 24 million trees. The tree farms provide more than 700 local jobs year round and more than 2,000 jobs during the tree harvest season. Growers producing Christmas trees on an estimated 40,000 acres, and 98 percent of these trees are of the Fraser fir species, endemic to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southern Appalachia, according to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association. The tree was named after John Fraser, a botanist from Scotland who explored the High Country in the late 1700s. Fraser firs can reach a maximum height of 80 feet if left to grow, but on average it takes between seven and 10 years for a tree to hit the ideal Christmas tree height of six-to-seven feet, stretching as long as 12 to 15 years depending on growing conditions, according to the NCCTA. From Ashe to Avery county, the High Country prides itself on offering families the opportunity to choose and cut their
PHOTO BY COLIN TATE Tyler Stuart transports a recently-selected tree to a customer’s vehicle at Frosty’s Choose and Cut.
own trees. This process has become a tradition for many families across the state. Unlike walking around a tree lot with a group of pre-cut trees, or buying an artificial tree, farms in the High Country give families the opportunity to pick their favorite tree while it is still alive and growing. Tree farmer Jim Barlow, of Ivy Point Farm, said he enjoys seeing traditions develop, as once small children have grown into adults and now bring their kids to the farm.
Barlow said his family has been growing Christmas trees for longer than 100 years, and the choose-and-cut business shows the more personable side of the industry compared to commercial farming. Not only do choose-and-cut customers participate in a process with no packaging or shipping, but they also are helping to support local farms and the environment. Visit the High Country to pick out the Christmas tree you and your loved ones will celebrate with during the holidays.
MORE INFORMATION For more information and contacts on choose and cut Christmas trees in the High Country, visit these websites: Ashe County: www.ashecountychristmastrees.com/choose-cut.php Avery County: www.averycountychristmastrees.org/members Watauga County: www.wataugachristmastrees.org/choose-and-cut-christmas-trees.html
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Winter driving in the High Country BY IAN TAYLOR
W
inter in the High Country is a time of beauty, fun and sitting by the fire with a hot cup of cocoa. But when you travel about, residents and visitors of the mountains in the winter must always be prepared for frigid temperatures, icy streets and car troubles. The winter snow may look beautiful as it sits on a tree or a quaint mountain cottage, but it can be dangerous on the road. Snow tires and/or chains are a good decision, and can help your car not spin out when taking a corner. Making sure that your tires are the proper inflation is also important, as well as making sure they’re not bald in the first place. Keeping your car’s gas tank at least halffull is good for a number of reasons, it helps to avoid gas line freeze ups and makes sure you can get home. According to the American Automobile Association, extra caution should be used when driving in the winter. Acceleration and deceleration should take longer so there’s more control of the car, and adding more distance between your car and the one in front reduces the chance of rear-ending them. As always, make sure to wear a seat belt for safety. It’s important to remember that some roads in the High Country can trick you into
WHAT TO KEEP IN YOUR CAR THIS WINTER Here are a few things to keep in your car during the winter, just in case of an emergency. • Windshield scraper • Small shovel • Jumper cables • Carpet strips • •Extra winter clothing • Extra antifreeze • Nonperishable food items • Blankets • Flashlight • Medicines
PHOTO COURTSEY GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION A freshly-scraped road at Grandfather Mountain; despite the attempt to clear it, there’s still snow and ice on the road.
believing they’re safer than they actually are. “Black ice” is ice on roads that is hard to see and can be very dangerous for drivers. There’s quite a few bridges in the High Country as well, they will ice over before the roads due to the air going under them, so keep an eye out for black ice on bridges. Not all vehicles are going to be stored in garages, so make sure to clear off the windshield of any snow or ice before driving. Also, clear the hood and roof of the vehicle to prevent snow from flying or falling, obstructing your view, or the view of another driver on the road; and give your vehicle adequate time to warm up before driving. While driving, If you find that your car is beginning to slide, turn into the slide for your best chance at correcting the issue.
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PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL The Mystery Hill sign that is visible on U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock.
Mystery Hill BY MACKENZIE FRANCISCO
D
efy gravity, mine for gems, engage in local history and more at Mystery Hill. Located on U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock, Mystery Hill has been a staple in the High Country for more than 70 years, and is the perfect destination for curious minds. Mystery Hill is centered on North Carolina’s only known gravitational anomaly, making it a site for a variety of scientific enigmas. Visitors may visit the Mystery House, where a gravity vortex pushes the body to a 45-degree angle, despite efforts to stand upright. Head over to the Hall of Mystery where guests are entertained by hands-on science activities, including the shadow wall, optical allusions, the flying mirror and more. Attractions also include the Bubblerama, which allows visitors to
trap their friends and families inside of a giant soap bubble, and Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine. The fun doesn’t stop there; Mystery Hill also offers three museums that showcase the rich history of the High Country: the Moon and Irene Mullins Native American artifacts museum, the 1903 Dougherty House museum and the Appalachian Fossil museum. The Moon and Irene Mullins Native American artifacts museum boasts more than a quarter million artifacts, while the 1903 Dougherty House museum gives guests and inside look at the house of the founders of Appalachian State. The Appalachian Fossil Museum showcases a collection of fossils, including a tyrannosaurus rex skull. Mystery Hill is open from 9 a.m. To 5 p.m. Every day except Christmas. For more information, visit www.mysteryhill.com.
provides fun for families and curious minds
FILE PHOTO Inside the Mystery House at Mystery Hill you will lose your sense of up and down.
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2018
So nice, they’re doing it twice: Tweetsie Christmas returns in 2018 BY THOMAS SHERRILL
A
wild-west themed park from May until September, Tweetsie changes it character to the spooky Ghost Train through Halloween. And after the ghouls go to rest for the year, Tweetsie brightens its mood in November for the fun and festive Tweetsie Christmas. After a successful debut in 2017, Tweetsie Railroad will light up on Fridays and Saturdays starting Thanksgiving weekend for Tweetsie Christmas in 2018. “For our 60th anniversary year (in 2017), we did something we’ve wanted to do for years,” said Chris Robbins, co-owner of Tweetsie. Robbins said that ticket sales so far are “strong” and that the first weekend, Nov. 23-24, will likely sell out. Tweetsie Railroad will be open for Tweetsie Christmas from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings Nov. 23 through Dec. 29. The first train leaves at 5:30 p.m. Robbins said that in 2018, visitors can expect to see an even brighter Tweetsie Christmas. “Mainly, the number of lights in the park, around the train ride, will provide a very special experience,” Robbins said. “It’ll be lighted all the way around the track. People loved it (last year) and were singing Christmas carols.” After having one giant snowglobe in 2017, Robbins said Tweetsie Christmas will have two in 2018, as well as two additional rides. Fan favorites returning in 2018 include the Christmas variety show in the Tweetsie palace, which Robbins said was packed every show in 2017, as well as Santa’s ginger-bread house with Santa and Mrs. Clause, the s’mores pit and animal compound. Tickets are $38 per person and are being offered for a designated night with a specific train ride time. Children 2 and younger are always admitted free. A limited number of guests will be admitted each evening.
FILE PHOTO The Tweetsie Christmas sign in 2017.
FILE PHOTO No. 12 crosses the trestle during Tweetsie Christmas in 2017.
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Relax & enjoy the Village of
Blowing Rock 1
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eaturing istinctive ntique & Estate iec
BLOWING ROCK ESTATE JEWELRY FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1988
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Come In and Smell the Spices!®
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Spices, Herbs, Hand-Mixed Spice Blends Gourmet Sea Salts, Naturally-Flavored Sugars Exotic Teas, Gifts & Accessories
The Spice & Tea Exchange 1087 Main Street | Blowing Rock, NC 828-372-7070
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LOCATED FURTHER DOWN
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ART
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SHOPPING
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ANTIQUES 2
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Gallery & Working Studio on Premises
A Boone Original Since 1988
Representing Work from 18 Local Potters BOB MEIER artist/owner 585 W. King St., Boone, NC 28607 meier@doeridgepottery.com (828) 264-1127 doeridgepottery.com 3
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WALKING MAP
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DINNER Daily starting at 5pm
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2018
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PHOTO SUBMITTED Chetola’s Festival of Lights is one of the High Country’s signs of the season.
Holiday fun can be found all across the High Country T BY LUKE WEIR
here is fun to be had all holiday season long in the High Country — before, between and after Christmas and the New Year. From shredding the slopes to partying with the townsfolk, the High Country offers no shortage of wintry holiday fun. In Blowing Rock, Chetola Resort has two festivals — the Festival of Lights and the Festival of Trees. The Festival of Lights begins Thanksgiving weekend on Friday, Nov. 24 and continues until Jan. 27, when Blowing Rock WinterFest ends. See thousands of holiday lights around
Chetola Lake free and open to the public. The Chetola Resort Festival of Trees starts Nov. 29 and runs through Dec. 2, benefitting local nonprofit Western Youth Network. Attendees can bid on beautiful trees and lovely wreaths to take home, each with a theme and some with gifts attached. Entrance is free, but donations go to underprivileged youth in the High Country. In West Jefferson, the Holiday Christmas Art Crawl is from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30, featuring the town’s many art galleries, while in Newland, the town’s annual Christmas parade begins on Park Street at 4:30 p.m. the same day.
The High Country is one of the nation’s leading regions for Christmas tree production, with the Fraser fir tree — referred to by many as the cadillac of Christmas trees — being a native species to the mountainous southern Appalachians. What better way to get into the seasonal spirit than by going out to one of the High Country’s many choose-andcut Christmas tree farms to bring home and adorn with ornaments? For fans of snow sports, Beach Mountain Resort, Sugar Mountain Resort and Appalachian Ski Mountain offer sweet powdery slopes to shred, ski and carve. There are also a number of special events
throughout the holiday season up on the ski mountains, as can be seen in the Winter Times Calendar elsewhere in this publication. In downtown Boone, the Little family is hosting a concert at the Jones House on Saturday, Dec. 15. Jeff, Jerrell and Luke Little are playing two shows that day, one at 4 p.m. and the other at 7:30 p.m. Blowing Rock’s 21st annual WinterFest is Jan. 24 to 27, 2019. Polar plunge into the icy waters of Chetola Lake, or watch the WinterPaws Dog Show, SEE FUN ON PAGE 56
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WinterFes t The High Country’s lone snowy festival BY THOMAS SHERRILL thomas.sherrill@wataugademocrat.com
I
n the long cold of winter, the town of Blowing Rock springs to life with a festive attitude that can’t be frozen, no matter how low the temperatures, as WinterFest takes over. “It is the only festival of its kind in this area where we celebrate all things winter,” said Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce’s Loni Miller. “There’s events for the entire family.” The 2019 edition will take place on Jan. 24-27, with more than 30 announced events and many more to come. “We’ll have something for everyone in your family or group to enjoy: Dog lovers, beer and wine enthusiasts, foodies, nonprofit supporters, adventurers, aspiring artists, shoppers, and more,” said Sarah Goff of the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. “Many events are indoors so even if you don’t love cold weather, you should come celebrate winter with us.” Fan favorites from past years will return. On Thursday, Jan. 24, WinterFest will take over Timberlakes Restaurant at Chetola Resort as Blowing Rock’s
PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Jerry and Sandra Meyer of Blowing Rock dance at the WinterFeast after-party on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018, at Chetola Resort. PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL People dress up in all manner of costumes or lack thereof for 2018’s polar plunge.
culinary minds will gather to please any taste pallets. Seatings will be held at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets are $40 a person and have sold out in recent years. An event that debuted in 2018 and will return in 2019 is the upstairs dessert after-party, also at Chetola Resort.
Friday, Jan. 25, will feature the WinterFashion show at Chetola Resort. Doors open with passed hors d’oeuvres, mimosas and spritzers and a cash bar available and the runway comes to life with local retailers showing off the new winter fashions. Saturday, Jan. 26, will see the bulk
FUN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 55
PHOTO SUBMITTED The slopes of Sugar Mountain on Sunday, Nov. 11, the first day of the 2018-19 ski season.
WinterFashion Show, ice carvers, drink from the Winter Beer Garden, and much more, mostly free. On warmer winter days when the weather is nice, consider a visit to the Blue Ridge Parkway and enjoy America’s favorite drive. The Blue Ridge turns especially blue in winter months, and a blanket of snow creates a quiet, tranquil atmosphere in the rural fields and forests along the drive. Beware, however, that the parkway is not salted during the winter, and is closed during times of heavy
of the action, starting with the popular Polar Plunge at 10 a.m. Each year, hundreds of jumpers sign up to take the dive into Chetola Lake. Emceed by John Carter of WBTV in Charlotte, the frigid flops raise thousands for a good cause as 50 percent of net proceeds benefit local charities Western Youth Network and Hospitality House. Pre-registration by SEE WINTERFEST ON PAGE 60
ice and snow, so take the drive slow on winter days when the parkway is open. In Banner Elk, Ensemble Stage presents a holiday musical variety show based on the Andy Williams and Bing Crosby Christmas television specials of days past from Dec. 7 to 16. Shows start in the Cultural Arts Center at the Historic Banner Elk School at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays. No matter where and regardless of season, there is always something fun happening in the High Country, and winter is no exception. Enjoy all the region has to offer, from ski slopes to concerts and festivals, and everything in-between.
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www.ValleCrucis.com
Dutch Creek Trails 828-297-7117
St. John’s Church ca. 1858
A haven for travelers since the 1800s, Valle Crucis, a National Rural Historic District, offers shops, beautiful bed and breakfast inns, delicious cuisine, wine tasting, rustic cabins, horseback riding, adventure and more.
Little Red School House ca. 1907
Original Mast General Store Est. 1883 828-963-6511
Over Yonder Restaurant & Bar 828-963-6301
Valle Crucis Conference Center Est. 1842 828-963-4453
Taylor House Inn Bed & Breakfast ca. 1911 800-963-5581
Valle Crucis Community Web Directory Dutch Creek Trails - dutchcreektrails.com Mast Farm Inn - themastfarminn.com Mast General Store - mastgeneralstore.com Mountainside Lodge B&B - mountainsidelodgebb.com Over Yonder - overyondernc.com Rivercross Made in USA - rivercrossmadeinusa.com Taylor House Inn - taylorhouseinn.com Valle Crucis Conference Center - vcconferences.org
Mast Store Annex Outfitters & Candy Barrel ca. 1909 828-963-6511
Rivercross Made in USA 828-963-8623
Mountainside Lodge Bed & Breakfasat 877-687-4333
Mast Farm Inn Lodging & Restaurant ca. 1812 828-963-5857
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WINTER TIMES
FIND YOURSELF IN THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS
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WINTER TIMES
2018
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2018
WINTERFEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 56
Jan. 4 is $35 and then is $40 through the morning of. Hayrides will be offered, weather pending, around downtown Blowing Rock from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 26. Ice carving demonstrations will be held in Memorial Park from 12-4 p.m. A new event will be featured in the parking lot of the American Legion Hall from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 26, as the K9 Keg Pull makes it debut at WinterFest. “It is literally dogs of all sizes matched up with empty beer kegs and the dogs pull sleds with the kegs on it,” Miller said. “It’s a really cute event. Partners! Canines have done it in other places, like Banner Elk.” The beer garden will be moved to the American Legion in 2019 from 1-4:30 p.m. and will be alongside the K9 Keg Pull as well as a silent auction and raffle benefiting Mountain Alliance that will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The weekend ends with more fluff and fur as the Watauga Humane Society will put on its annual WinterPaws show at the Blowing Rock School gymnasium. Categories include most unique looking mix of breeds; most clever dog trick; cutest looking dog in the world; best winter fashion wear and dog that most resembles its owner. There will be winners in each category as well as the title Best In Show. Entry is $5 for adults and free for kids. Miller said that WinterFest will also have commemorative items for sale this year. For a full list of events, visit blowingrockwinterfest.com.
PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Nine-year-old Allie Bertrand of Boone, along with her dog George, who won ‘Best in Show’ at the WinterPaws dog show on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018.
PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Artisan Ice Sculptures constructed more than a dozen ice sculptors for local businesses during WinterFest 2018. The creatings were displayed in front of the businesses all weekend.
PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Around 65 different furry friends took park in the annual WinterPaws dog show on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018, at the Blowing Rock School Gym.
PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES Chefs from many different restaurants put their chili cooking skills to work in the name of charity on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, at the Blowing Rock School gym.
PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Seth Park, executive chef of Bistro Roca, at the WinterFest dinner event on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018, at Timberlake’s.
WINTERFEST SCHEDULE All Weekend Shop Til You Drop BrrrrAHM – Free Admission
Thursday, Jan. 24 Doodlebug Club at BRAHM – 10:30 a.m. — 11:30 a.m. Doodlebug Club at BRAHM – 1-2 p.m. WinterFeast – 5:30-10 p.m. Bonfire, S’mores and Entertainment at Chetola Resort – 7-10 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 25 Pancake Breakfast at Sunny Rock – 7:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m.
WinterFashion Show – 10:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m. WinterFest Sip and Stroll – 4-7 p.m. Cork and Canvas at BRAHM – 4-6 p.m. Hands-On Ice Carving at BRAHM – 4-6 p.m. WinterFest Ice Stroll – 5-7 p.m. Bonfire, S’mores and Entertainment at Chetola Resort – 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 26 Pancake Breakfast at Sunny Rock – 7:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m. Polar Plunge at Chetola Resort – 8-11 a.m. Silent Auction and Raffle – 10 a.m. — 4 p.m. Hayrides – 10 a.m. — 4 p.m. Cork and Canvas at BRAHM – 10 a.m. — 12 p.m.
Hands-On Ice Carving at BRAHM 11 a.m. — 3 p.m. Rotary Charity Chili Challenge – 11:30 a.m. — 2 p.m. K9 Keg Pull – 1:30 p.m. — 4 p.m. Ice Carving Demonstrations in Memorial Park 12-4 p.m. Arctic Art at BrrrAHM – 1-2:30 p.m. WinterFest Beer Garden 1-4:30 p.m. WinterTastings and Auction at The Green Park Inn – 3-5 p.m. Bonfire, S’mores and Entertainment at Chetola Resort 7-10 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 27 Sunday Brunch at Foggy Rock – 11 a.m. — 3 p.m. WinterPaws Dog Show – 1-3 p.m. More events will be announced closer to Winterfest.
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High Country frescoes a rare beauty in Ashe and Avery counties BY LUKE WEIR
F
resco paintings have been revered for ages by many different societies as culturally and spiritually significant artworks — from ancient Egypt to Renaissance Europe, and, more contemporarily, in the High Country of North Carolina. The oldest fresco paintings are 3,000 years old or older, a testament to their durability, and the medium has been used by Michelangelo on the ceiling of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel in Rome. Inside the sanctuaries of Ashe County’s St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs, collectively known as the Parish of the Holy Communion, are larger-than-life frescoes by Ben Long, a contemporary artist who has mastered the ancient art of fresco painting. Long grew up in Statesville, and apprenticed in Italy to learn the challenging medium of fresco painting, in which the artist presses pigment into wet plaster. The pigment then becomes chemically bonded with the plaster and hardens to produce a surface that is remarkably resistant to time. In the 1970s, Ben Long blessed Ashe County with awe-inspiring and eternal art treasures, starting with St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in 1974. The first Ashe County fresco, “Mary Great with Child,” was followed by “John the Baptist.” Long then began work on “The Mystery of Faith,” which would become a magnificent image covering the entire sanctuary wall at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. In 1977, Long, along with his apprentices and assistants, created a fresco called “The Last Supper” at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. All of Long’s frescoes are still on display in the churches they were painted in, and have been preserved in magnificent fashion for longer than 40 years now. Long also painted a fresco titled “Suffer the Little Children” in Avery County’s Sloop Chapel, located at the Crossnore School. Frescoes Foundation Member Pat
PHOTO SUBMITTED Ben Long’s work, ‘Suffer the Little Children’ is on display at Sloop Chapel on the campus of Crossnore School & Children’s Home campus.
Mitchell said the Long frescoes have a unique and mystical allure to them that has drawn tourists from far and wide to see the artwork. “A successful piece of art is one that you can step into it and you feel something, and I think that’s what these frescoes do,” Mitchell said. “When we look at them and are part of the environment where they are, I think they speak to us — I think that’s what you feel when you go into those churches and look at them.” Long went on to become a well-decorated artist — some of his many achievements are listed online, along with information about his current artistic endeavors, at BenLongFineArt.com. For more information about the Ashe County frescoes, and the foundation created to preserve them, visit www. ashefrescoes.org. To see the artworks for yourself, visit St. Mary’s Episcopal Church at 400 Beaver Creek School Rd. in West Jefferson, and the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church at 195 J W Luke Rd. in Glendale Springs, or the Sloop Chapel at 100 DAR Drive in Crossnore.
FRESCO LOCATIONS Holy Trinity Episcopal Church 120 Glendale School Road, Glendale Springs, N.C. 28629 (336) 982-3076 St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 400 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 982-3076 Sloop Chapel 100 DAR Drive, Crossnore, N.C. 28616 (828) 733-4305
FILE PHOTO The ‘Mystery of Faith’ fresco by Ben Long is featured on the wall of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Fresco artist Ben Long’s creation, ‘The Last Supper,’ is on display at the Holy Trinity Church, on Glendale School Road in West Jefferson.
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Treat yourself to a spa day in the High Country lymphatic drainage, hot stone or couples massages. Harrow said appointments can be made from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
BY KAYLA LASURE
T
ake time for yourself this winter season by relaxing in a spa setting in the High Country area. Those looking for a longer getaway won’t be disappointed with the handful of destination spas the area offers. For people looking for a quick way to unwind, local day spas offer plenty of amenities.
The Spa at Chetola Resort
Destination spas Westglow Resort and Spa Westglow Resort and Spa — listed in the Top 10 for destination spas in the country in Travel and Leisure’s 2017 World’s Best Awards — is located in Blowing Rock. Clients are able to experience face and body treatments, vichy services, day spa sessions, salon services and vacation packages. Facial and body treatments can include overnight or bed and breakfast packages. Day spa packages also include access to the indoor swimming pool, whirlpools, steam room, saunas, cardiovascular center, weight room, tennis court, fitness classes, fireside relaxation lounge and morning guided hike. Westglow offers a wide range of massage types such as deep tissue, aromatherapy, couples, grandfather stone, reflexology, Thai or even raindrop therapy. Facial services begins with a consultation so that Westglow staff can evaluate the condition of a clients skin and customize the experience. Folks can enjoy facials targeting needs such as anti-aging, hydration or revitalization. Vichy services utilize a rain therapy. These can include items such as mud wraps, exfoliation or oils used along with the rain therapy. Most services offered at Westglow require a 48-hour booking in advance and is subject to a 24-hour cancellation policy.
The Inn at Crestwood Offering spa opportunities as well as
PHOTO SUBMITTED A client enjoys a massage at The Inn at Crestwood.
Operating since 2009, the Spa at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock offers massages, facial treatments, nail care and a hair salon. The spa offers five treatment rooms, a relaxation room, nail treatment area and locker rooms. The resort also offers a heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna and fitness area. Chetola offers 14 different massages — such as a signature swedish massage, acupuncture, reflexology, river rock hot stone, raindrop therapy and a maternity massage. These massages range from $70 to $320 depending on which massage is chosen. Eight facial options are also offered and can be purchased in 60 or 90 minute packages — ranging from $105 to $170. Reservations are required for all treatments. Other services and amenities can be found on the Chetola Resort website.
Art of Living Retreat Center
PHOTO SUBMITTED The Inn at Crestwood provides rooms dedicated to spa services.
lodging, dining and wedding ceremony space is the Inn at Crestwood in Boone. Crestwood offers an indoor heated lap pool, sauna, steam room, work out room and game room, according to Spa Manager Leigh Harrow. While spa amenities are offered for hotel guests, it is also open to the public so anyone is able to book appointments. People are able to purchase a day pass to access the amenities during regular operating hours for $15.
People are able to book appointments for massages, facials or packages of both. Customers are able to purchase a Crestwood massage (a Swedish style massage) for $65 for 30 minutes, $90 for 60 min or $130 for 90 minutes. Crestwood offers two facials — its deluxe facial at $95 for 60 minutes and its image signature facelift for $110 for 60 minutes. Prices can be found online for other services such as a deep tissue, aromatherapy, craniosacral therapy,
The Art of Living Retreat Center offers its Shankara Ayurveda Spa — which combines the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with contemporary wellness techniques. Located in Boone, the Art of Living Retreat Center offers 15 different treatments for participants to explore. People can choose from a joint rejuvenation treatment; a treatment that loosens toxins, relaxes the nervous system and provides rejuvenation to the body; spa wraps; herbal exfoliation treatments; or relaxation therapy. Based on the package and how long a treatment lasts, services range from $75 to $270. The center also offers a panchakarma cleanses that many people use to relieve chronic pain, according to the center. Visitors are also able to book spa retreats. Visitors can book a couple’s get away, girlfriend getaway, mother/daughter getaway, a “rester” short cleanse or a weekend of creativity. Reservations are SEE SPA ON PAGE 67
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required for all services.
Day spas The Spa at Eseeola Lodge The Spa at The Eseeola Lodge is a luxury day spa located in Linville offering a variety of services such as seven different massages, body treatments, 10 different facials, hair, waxing and nails. Massages range from half an hour for $65 to two hours for $190. Massages include stone massages, a stress relieving “posture pleaser,” aromatherapy, isolated stretching and a couples message. Facials include a signature facial gentleman’s facial, a cool moonstone facial or an anti-gravity facial. Body scrubs and body wraps are available body treatments as well as treatment packages such as the ‘scent-sastional’ — which offers a shower, warm essential oils drizzled from head-to-toe, an extensive scalp massage and hydrating treatment. Clients are able to buy herbal teas, candles, soaps, body, hair care products and cable-knit throws.
Heavenly Touch Day Spa Voted Best Spa by Watauga Democrat readers four out of the last five years in the annual Best of Best Awards, Heavenly Touch Day Spa is located in Boone. Heavenly Touch Day Spa offers a team of licensed massage therapists and estheticians, certified spray tan technicians who provide a friendly, unassuming, professional and relaxing spa environment. At this spa, people are able to enjoy massage treatments, facials, UV and sunless tanning, eyelash extensions. For new clients, visitors can experience any of Heavenly Touch’s eight massage treatments for $49.95 for 60 minutes or $74.95 for 90 minutes. Facials — such as the age smart, medibac clearing or the ultra calming treatments — are $59.95 for 60 minutes or $84.95 for 90 minutes for new clients. The businesses location, membership business model, competitive pricing and experienced staff sets them apart, according to Owner John Mlekush.
7th Heaven Day Spa 7th Heaven Day Spa promises “heavenly services at down to earth prices” to its customers.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Heavenly Touch Day Spa offers products for sale to its clients.
This spa is located in Boone and offers 11 different massages, eight body treatments and nine facials to choose from. Two of its signature services are the 90 minute 7th Heaven facial with European antioxidants, botanical extracts and serums used for $110 and the 2 hour “Gates of Heaven” body treatment which encompasses a gentle exfoliation, body wrap and aromatherapy for $130. All spa services are done by appointment only at 7th Heaven. The spa recommends setting up an appointment at least 24 hours in advance.
Natural Healing Day Spa Natural Healing Day Spa — located in Banner Elk — has been in operation for more than 20 years. This spa offers massages, body treatments, facials, hair removal and nail services. Basic massage packages at this spa are $60 for 45 minutes, $80 for 60 minutes or $105 for 90 minutes. However, it also offers other types of massages such as healing stone, reflexology, back and neck tension reduction and mother-tobe. Body treatments include items such as several body wraps — like a detox or regeneration wrap — body scrubs or a steam spa treatment. Natural Healing offers five different types of facials such as a skin renewal facial or one specifically for men. Both appointments and walk-ins are welcome at Natural Healing Day Spa.
Lavender Fields Located in Boone, Lavendar Fields offers facials, massages, nail care, permanent cosmetics, microblading/tinting, waxing and electrolysis. Massages can be purchased for $75 for an hour or $115 for an hour and a half. Its eight different facials range from $60 to $150 based on the type of facial chosen. Facials can include a collagen facial,
PHOTO SUBMITTED Natalie Schwan relaxes on a couch at Westglow Resort and Spa.
microdermabrasion, a youthful peeling facial or even an exfoliating depigmentation treatment. Permanent cosmetics can be applied for the eyebrows, eyeliner or touching up previous tattoos. While walk-ins are welcome, the spa suggests booking an appointment. People are able to book a free consult with Lavender Fields to explore their options. Salon services are open to all ages, but treatments are only available to those 18 years of age and older.
Serenity Day Spa This Banner Elk spa offers facials, massages, microdermabrasion, waxing and body treatments. Serenity Day Spa offers
SPAS Westglow Resort and Spa Location: 224 Westglow Circle, Blowing Rock Phone: (828) 295-4463 Website: www.westglowresortandspa.com
The Inn and Crestwood Location: 3236 Shulls Mill Road, Boone Phone: (828) 963-6646 Website: crestwoodnc.com
The Spa at Chetola Resort Location: 185 Chetola Lake Drive, Blowing Rock Phone: (828) 295-5531 Website: chetola.com/spa
Art of Living and Retreat Center Location: 911 Rock Cliff Road, Boone Phone: (828) 264-8382 Website: artoflivingretreatcenter.org/spa
The Spa at Eseeola Lodge Location: 34 Dogwood St., Linville Phone: (828) 737-9500 Website: www.eseeolaspa.com
a charming cottage atmosphere with a fireplace to relax by when its cold. People can enjoy a basic massage for a half of an hour for $50, an hour for $90 and an hour and a half for $125. Hot stone or couples massages are also available at Serenity Day Spa. European Aromatherapy Facial, 02 or a men’s power cleanse are a few of the eight facial treatments this spa offers. Serenity Day Spa also offers two types of body treatments — salt glow or back cleansing treatments. Microdermabrasion can be administered individually for $125 or in a series of treatments for $600. Clients are taken by appointment only at this spa.
Heavenly Touch Day Spa Location: 246 Wilson Drive, Boone Phone: (828) 264-4335 Website: heavenlytouchboone.com
7th Heaven Day Spa Location: 4457 N.C. 105 S., Boone Phone: (828) 963-2355 Website: 7thheaven.vpweb.com
Natural Healing Day Spa Location: 2960 Tynecastle Highway, Banner Elk Phone: (828) 898-8400 Website: www.naturalhealingdayspa.com
Lavender Fields Location: 820-C State Farm Road, Boone Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Phone: (828) 265-1029 Website: www.lavenderfieldssalon.com
Serenity Day Spa Location: 72 Arnett Road, Banner Elk Phone: (828) 898-3550 Website: www.relaxatserenity.com
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FILE PHOTO The entire cast of the BeanStalk Community Theatre production of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.’
PHOTO BY LYNN WILLIS Tony-Award winner Beth Leavel talks with the audience during her theater master class in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Appalachian State University.
In character High Country theater offers winter entertainment
will run from March 28-30 and Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” will show July 25-27. For more information about the community theater or for tickets, visit www.beanstalknc.com or email info@ beanstalknc.com.
BY SYDNEY WOLFORD
T
he High Country is booming with talented performers and entertainers, so theater and musical fans will have a host of reasons to get out of the house this winter.
ASU Department of Theatre and Dance
APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country will be open for live theater productions soon enough. The theater and King Street landmark aims to open by summer 2019 after closing in 2007 and undergoing renovations for the past couple of years. To stay updated on ATHC’s renovations or to donate, visit www.apptheatre. org.
Appalachian State’s Department of Theatre and Dance puts on several shows and performances by students and professionals. The department regularly puts on shows at Valborg Theatre, Varsity Gym, Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts and I.G. Greer Studio Theatre. For more information, visit www.theatreanddance.appstate.edu.
community theater located in West Jefferson with three to four performances per year at the Ashe Civic Center. While the 2019 schedule has not been announced, visit ashecivic.com/little-theatre.
Ashe County Little Theatre
Beanstalk Community Theatre
The Ashe County Little Theatre is a
Founded by Amy Beane in Boone,
In/Visible Theatre
PHOTO SUBMITTED Derek Davidson and Karen Sabo, the husband-and-wife team behind In/ Visible Theatre, are pictured in Appalachian State’s Valborg Theatre during rehearsals for the July 2016 world premiere of their show, ‘Mauzy.’
Beanstalk Community Theatre puts on a few shows per year and offer classes and workshops for entertainers of all ages. The theater will show “Almost Maine” from Jan. 24-26, “Doublewide, Texas”
Boone-based In/Visible Theatre doesn’t want to crank out 20 shows a year — the community theater wants to put on a few shows per year that they’re intensely passionate about. While the theater puts on one-of-a-kind productions, it was also the site of recent Boone Solo Fringe Festival, or BoLo Fest. The festival brings quirky performances that otherwise may be on the “fringes” of performance art to the forefront. For more information about the theater, visit www.invisibletheatrenc.org. Tickets can be found at www.invisibletheatrenc.org/tickets.
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ASU performances feature classics, new favorites BY SYDNEY WOLFORD
A
ppalachian State University boasts multiple venues to host student-centric productions that captivate audiences no matter the season. Attendees this season are sure to be entertained and inspired by upcoming 2019 theater and musical performances at the university.
SCHAEFER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS The Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts curates the annual The Schaefer Center Presents, a series of world-famous theater and musical performances to grace the Schaefer Center stage from fall to spring. Every year, the Schaefer Center aims to provide memorable experiences and educational opportunities for locals and visitors in the area. Music and theater fans can put their hands together for a lineup of legendary entertainment this winter.
Award in 2013 and a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2016.
Dance Theatre of Harlem 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 19 A globally-acclaimed dance institution since its founding in 1969, Dance Theatre of Harlem brings innovative movement and expression to the stage. The professional dance ensemble has performed all over the world and has grown into a multicultural dance institution while setting standards in the performing arts. Dance Theatre of Harlem’s performance is funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and also involves residency activities from Feb. 18-20. A local resident discount with proof of residence in Watauga, Ashe or Avery counties for Dance Theatre of Harlem is available when tickets are purchased over the phone or at the box office.
The World of Musicals Herbie Hancock 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 13 Pianist, composer and 14-time Grammy Award winner Herbie Hancock is often dubbed as a visionary in his ability to blend rock, funk, soul and electronica. Among many notable awards, Hancock received a Kennedy Center Honors
7 p.m., Friday, April 5 “The World of Musicals” combines fan-favorite show tunes from beloved musicals and movies. From “Dirty Dancing” to “Les Miserables” to “Rent,” there’s something for everyone.
PHOTO BY LYNN WILLIS Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble dancers and ASU alumna Tori Caudill, left, and senior Ekuwa Peters, right, perform ‘Wake Up’ by Sherone Price, associate professor of dance studies.
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“The World of Musicals” will also perform a matinee for K-12 students from 10 surrounding counties as part of the APPlause! K-12 Performing Arts Series sponsored by Appalachian’s Office of Arts and Cultural Programs. Tickets for these events are on sale at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts box office. A faculty/staff and retired faculty/staff discount is available when tickets are purchased over the phone or at the box office. To purchase tickets, call or visit the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts Box Office at (800) 841-2787, (828) 2624046 or visit theschaefercenter.org.
VALBORG THEATRE Appalachian State’s Valborg Theatre is the main stage for the Theatre and Dance Department, in which students take the lead. The venue offers more than 300 seats in a convenient, on-campus location.
‘Eurydice’ by Sarah Ruhl 7 p.m., Feb. 20-23; 2 p.m., Feb. 24 Two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist Ruhl revisits the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice and tells a story of a young woman experiencing dualities of human nature — memory and reality, life and death.
Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble 7 p.m., March 21-24; 2 p.m., March 25 The Appalachian Dance Ensemble is made up of Appalachian State Dance students, who follow choreography from students, faculty and sometimes guest choreographers.
‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ 7 p.m., April 10-12; Gala Performance 8 p.m., April 13; 2 p.m., April 14 Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” tells of four conflicted lovers wandering into the woods only to find fairies, sprites and goblins in conflict as well. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” points to the connection between humanity and nature and how romance can bloom and spirit can become anew in that relationship. The show will go on during the 25th anniversary of Valborg Theatre, which opened with “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” as its first production.
PHOTO BY RACHEL NEVILLE Dancers Ingrid Silva and Choong Hoon Lee of Dance Theatre of Harlem will grace the Schaefer Center stage on Feb. 19.
ADDITIONAL VENUES, PERFORMANCES Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University offers weekly recitals and concerts by faculty and students, which are open to the public. For more information and a schedule, visit www.music. appstate.edu. Additionally, Legends on ASU’s campus offers regular concerts, comedy shows and more throughout the year. For a list of show announcements, visit www.legends. appstate.edu. ASU’S showing of Banff Mountain Film Festival is one of the largest in North America and will run from March 22-23, 2019. Tickets can be purchased starting Dec. 3 by calling the Schaefer Center Box Office at (800) 841-2787, Footsloggers in downtown Boone (828) 355-9984 or in Blowing Rock (828) 295-4453.
I.G. GREER STUDIO THEATRE Host to university classes by day, I.G. Greer also functions as a stage for the Department of Theatre and Dance. The intimate space seats 80 and is the primary location for student productions and one-person acts. SEE ASU ON PAGE 71
PHOTO BY LYNN WILLIS Appalachian Dance Ensemble performs ‘Under Story’ by dance studies senior lecturer Regina Gulick.
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APPLAUSE! K-12 PERFORMANCES In addition to The Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts’ Schaefer Center Presents series, the performing arts venue also offers affordable, engaging shows for K-12 students and teachers through APPlause! K-12 Performing Arts Series.
TheaterworksUSA’s ‘Magic School Bus’ 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 13 The Magic School Bus explores outer space and ventures out to save Ms. Frizzle in TheaterworksUSA’s new musical adaption of the original book series. The show will run for approximately 60 minutes.
Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour: Student Edition 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 20 The student version of fan favorite Banff Mountain Film Festival will showcase selections of interest to middle school students. Run time will be approximately 90 minutes.
The World of Musicals 10 a.m., Friday, April 5 The best of musical theater comes to life in “The World of Musicals,” which encourages sing-alongs for audiences of all ages. The show’s run time is approximately 60 minutes. For more information about APPlause K-12, visit theschaefercenter.org/applause.
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‘The Ugly Duckling’ by Larry and Vivian Snipes
PHOTO BY RACHEL NEVILLE Ingrid Silva of Dance Theatre of Harlem will take the stage this winter.
7 p.m., April 26; 2 p.m., April 27-28 An adaptation by Larry and Vivian Snipes brings “The Ugly Duckling” in an entirely new light with a twist. Follow along as the Ugly Duckling dares to
G
discover who they truly are, just as we all eventually do. This show is appropriate for all ages.
Tickets For a complete list of show times and to buy advance tickets, visit theatreanddance.appstate.edu/performances or call (828) 262-4046. Tickets can also be purchased at the door one hour before curtain time.
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Warm up to High Country art galleries
PAGE 73
Celebrating 36Years
BY SYDNEY WOFORD
F
ill your home this winter with local paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more at one of the many High Country art gallery destinations, where there is something for everyone’s taste.
ASHE COUNTY Acorn Gallery 103 Long St., West Jefferson (336) 246-3388 www.acorngallery.com Acorn Gallery is a fine art gallery for originals and giclees by award-winning artist Raney Rogers, whose work ranges from photo-realism to impressionism. Rogers’ work features people, nature and SEE GALLERIES ON PAGE 74
PHOTO SUBMITTED The Art Cellar Gallery hosts a coffee talk series with artists, such as painter David Birmingham.
WINTER GROUP UP AND SMALL WORKS EXHIBITION November 23 – April 30
Support Local Fine Art & Handmade Crafts Meet Local Artisans - December 15, 1-4pm Ellie Lyne, Linda Spillane, Lynn Shallis powersports.honda.com PIONEER 1000-5 IS ONLY FOR DRIVERS 16 YEARS AND OLDER. MULTI-PURPOSE UTILITY VEHICLES (SIDE-BY-SIDES) CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. FOR YOUR SAFETY, DRIVE RESPONSIBLY. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND APPROPRIATE CLOTHING. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT, AND KEEP THE SIDE NETS AND DOORS CLOSED. AVOID EXCESSIVE SPEEDS AND BE CAREFUL ON DIFFICULT TERRAIN. ALL MUV DRIVERS SHOULD WATCH THE SAFETY VIDEO “MULTIPURPOSE UTILITY VEHICLES: A GUIDE TO SAFE OPERATION” AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING THE VEHICLE. NEVER DRIVE AFTER CONSUMING DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, OR ON PUBLIC ROADS. DRIVER AND PASSENGERS MUST BE TALL ENOUGH FOR SEAT BELT TO FIT PROPERLY AND TO BRACE THEMSELVES WITH BOTH FEET FIRMLY ON THE FLOOR. PASSENGER MUST BE ABLE TO GRASP THE HAND HOLD WITH THE SEAT BELT ON AND BOTH FEET ON THE FLOOR. RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT WHEN DRIVING. Pioneer® is a registered trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2018 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (10/18)
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PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY
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lovable animals. Ashe Custom Framing and Gallery 105 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-2218 www.ashecustomframing.com Ashe Custom Framing and Gallery is the oldest custom framer in West Jefferson and offers original watercolor, acrylic and oil paintings, prints and photography and more from local and regional artists. Backstreet Beads and Handcrafted Jewelry 111-A N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 877-7686 www.backstreetbeads.com Backstreet Beads is a full service bead shop offering unique, handmade jewelry. CatchLight Gallery 118 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-1551 www.catchlightgallery.net Photographer Nicole Robinson opened CatchLight Gallery to showcase photography in the area. Monthly exhibits cycle through the gallery, and chances are visitors will be able to talk to the artists, as photographers typically work a day in the gallery. Cher Shaffer Studio Gallery 676 S. Main St., Jefferson (336) 385-6001 www.chershaffer.com Artist Cher Shaffer features her original work in mixed media, sculpture and paintings in her Jefferson art gallery. Shaffer’s work has been displayed in galleries and studios around North Carolina and in New Orleans. Florence Thomas Art School 10 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-3827 www.florenceartschool.org Florence Thomas Art School, a nonprofit school, offers education, workshops and demonstrations in all media and fine arts. Additionally, the art school offers juried exhibitions. Originals Only Gallery 3B N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com Originals Only showcases artists Joan Stiles Bell and Lenore De Pree, wooden
PHOTO COURTESY PAGE SMOAK Mountain Blue Gallery hosts an artist reception with authors Les and Janet Saucier. Artist Rebecca Williams also displayed her work at the time.
furniture by Tom Sternal, and pottery by David and Sherry Hoffman. Bell and De Pree draw their inspiration from places they have lived and traveled. Quilt Square Girls 5 E. Second St., West Jefferson (336) 385-0196 www.ilovebarnquilts.com The Quilt Square Girls are a group of women who paint barn quilts, offer barn quilt supplies, barn quilt classes and more hand-made items provided by their vendors. R.T. Morgan Art Gallery and Glass by Camille 120 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 246-3328 www.rtmorganartgallery.com R.T. Morgan Art Gallery and Glass by Camille offer more than eight media in R.T. Morgan and Camille’s combined 60 years in creating art. Sculpture in stone, steel, wood and copper, and abstract and realistic paintings in oil and acrylic are on
display. Stephen Shoemaker Gallery 111 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-3401 www.stephenshoemaker.com Stephen Shoemaker displays his giclees, lithographs, puzzles and other items such as ornaments, coins and note cards. Shoemaker painted “Cut at Devil’s Stairs,” one of the many murals in West Jefferson.
AVERY COUNTY 87 Ruffin Street Gallery 87 Ruffin St., Linville (828) 737-0420 www.87ruffinstreet.com 87 Ruffin Street features Southern folk art, paintings and pottery. The gallery is located next to the Old Hampton Store, so gallery-goers have the chance to listen to live music and enjoy Southern cuisine. Carlton Gallery 10360 N.C. Highway 105, Banner Elk (828) 963-4288
www.carltongallery.com Carlton Gallery is a fine art gallery featuring the work of many local, regional and national artists. Works include oil paintings, watercolor, giclees, wood art, mixed media, sculpture, jewelry, fiber arts, glass and more. New paintings by Trena McNabb, Debbie Arnold, Egidio Antonaccio, Michael Grady, Freeman Beard, Marion Cloaninger, Linda Apriletti and Andrew Braitman cover many sizes, styles and subject matter. Gallery owner Toni Carlton’s artwork is also on exhibit, and her Heart Opening Studio will be open for visitors as well. The gallery also offers workshops and seasonal group exhibitions, highlighting works of numerous artists in one show. Clark Gallery 393 Shawneehaw Ave S., Banner Elk (828) 898-2095 chrisclarkgallery.com
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Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery 205 Johnson Lane, Crossnore (828) 733-3144 www.crossnore.org/fine-arts-gallery/ The Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery shows local and regional artwork and shows exhibits throughout the year. A portion of all proceeds go toward the children of Crossnore School and Children’s Home. Maggie Black Pottery 112 Clubhouse Dr. #1, Banner Elk (828) 963-2565 maggieblackpottery.com Potter Maggie Black can sometimes be found creating a new piece in her gallery. Black’s work includes bowls, candle holders, vases and more. Mountain Blue Gallery 151 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk (828) 898-4477 www.mountainbluegallery.com Mountain Blue Gallery is an art gallery in the heart of Banner Elk, that features fine art from renowned local and regional artists as well as emerging artists. The gallery represents more than 20 artists offering a diverse selection of original encaustics, oils, acrylics, ceramics, jewelry, glass, textiles and more. The gallery also offers workshops, new exhibitions and artist receptions for each season. To end the 2018 season, owner Page Smoak will display Mountain Blue Gallery art at Beech Mountain’s Holiday Market Nov. 24. Smoak is particularly attracted to color and light and how they interact with each other. Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 N.C. Highway 194, Banner Elk (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com Artist Sally Nooney include original paintings of still life, animals and nature and glass work. Nooney has also created custom murals, furniture, paper and more. Studio 140 at Sorrento’s 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk (828) 352-8853 www.studio140art.com Studio 140 at Sorrento’s displays the work of self-taught artist Kent Paulette, whose paintings leap off the canvas with color, texture and movement.
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WATAUGA COUNTY Alta Vista Gallery 2839 Broadstone Road, Valle Crucis (828) 963-5247 www.altavistagallery.com In its 29th year, Alta Vista Gallery shows seasonal exhibits by local and regional artists. The gallery shows bronze sculptures by Rusty Gray, Mangum and New Day Pottery, stained glass, fine art tiles, prints, notecards and puzzles by Will Moses. Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden & Gallery 9600 Linville Falls Highway, Linville (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden and Gallery represents seven accomplished sculptors working in diverse materials and styles with pieces for exteriors and interiors. Anvil Arts has also been the working studio of well-known sculptor Bill Brown for over 36 years. Art Cellar Gallery 920 Shawneehaw Lane, Banner Elk (828) 898-5175 artcellaronline.com The Art Cellar Gallery features paintings and sculpture from regional, national and international artists. The gallery focuses on North Carolina artists while including select artists from across the Southeast, showing work from large scale canvases to smaller works on paper, as well as wood, glass and clay. Along with frequent new exhibitions, the gallery will also host a Holiday Open House 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 15 for an opportunity to celebrate the season with the gallery. Blowing Rock Art and History Museum 159 Chestnut St., Blowing Rock (828) 295-9099 blowingrockmuseum.org Blowing Rock Art and History Museum features several new exhibitions throughout the year, such as “The Affrilachian Artist Traveling Studio,” “Farm, Forest, Feast: High Country Foodways” and “Outsiders: The Inside Story of Folk Art.” For more information about BRAHM, read the Mountain Times Publications’ 2018-2019 Winter Times article. Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery 7539 Valley Blvd., Blowing Rock (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery has
Dottie Leatherwood’s ‘Leaning In’ (36” x 48”) at Carlton Gallery.
provided fine art and framing to Blowing Rock, Boone and surrounding areas for more than 24 years. Blue Ridge ArtSpace 377 Shadowline Drive, Boone (828) 264-1789 watauga-arts.org/wordpress/blueridge-artspace The Blue Ridge ArtSpace, a community arts hub filled with four galleries, classrooms and a gift shop, is the home of the Watauga Arts Council. Bolick and Traditions Pottery 1155 Main St., Blowing Rock (828) 295-6128 www.traditionspottery.com Owners Mike and Janet Calhoun create handmade pottery such as face jugs, mugs, bowls, candle sticks and teapots. Doe Ridge Pottery 585 W. King St., Boone (828) 264-1127 doeridgepottery.homestead.com Visiting Doe Ridge Pottery is a destination experience. Doe Ridge Pottery Gallery is the home of master craftsman Bob Meier as well as a number of other fine potters from the High Country. Downtown Boone visitors can enjoy watching work being made in the studio. Hands Gallery 543 W. King St., Boone (828) 262-1970 www.handsgallery.org Visitors of Hands Gallery will find a great selection of jewelry, fiber, baskets, pottery, photos, gourds, woodblock prints, soaps, mosaics, stained glass, wrought iron, wooden bowls, furniture and many other hand crafted items.
Jones House Community Center 604 W. King St., Boone (828) 262-4576 www.joneshouse.org/galleries The historic Jones House features an art gallery with a new exhibit every month. Additionally, the gallery is open during the weekly old-time jam nights. Martin House Gallery 1098 Main St., Blowing Rock (336) 508-2828 www.martinhousegallery.com The Martin House Gallery is a new, innovative gallery featuring local landscape artists. The gallery is currently showing private works and previously shown work by Ben Long, which will be on display through December. Nth Degree Gallery 683 W. King St., Boone (828) 919-6919 www.nthdegreegallery.com The Nthº Gallery and Studios is a notfor-profit, member and donation-supported art venue serving as an incubator for emerging and established artists in the Boone area. Meet the artists, see our work and donate what you can. Turchin Center for the Visual Arts 423 W. King St., Boone (828) 262-3017 tcva.appstate.edu The Turchin Center has eight galleries with changing contemporary exhibits and is the largest facility of its kind in the region. Read more about what the Turchin Center has to offer in 2018-2019 Mountain Times Publications’ Winter Times article.
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Canine Camping: Bring your pup to the campground BY COLIN TATE
C PHOTO COURTESY OF DARIN CONRAD Sidney Anderson, right, and her dog, Moo, enjoy the Linville Gorge wilderness during a war holiday — although winter is also prime pet camping season.
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amping in the High Country is fun for the whole family, and not just the humans in your pack. Bringing along a canine pal is encouraged. However, before taking a dog to the campground, it’s best to understand a few important notes. First, food and supplies are a must, and don’t forget a leash and doggie bags. Other medicines and materials that are individually important to your pet are also a must-have. Next, be aware of where your furry friend is at all times. Some bodies of water may be harmful to dogs, so keep an eye on where and what they drink.
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SEE CANINE ON PAGE 77
‘Montgomery County’s Best’ predicts winter weather BY LUKE WEIR
Est. 2000
Keep canines close. That’s where the leash comes in handy. Another question to ask yourself is, how well-trained is my pet? An obedient pup is certainly an advantage at any campground. Try exposing your pet to similar situations in controlled settings beforehand to get them accustomed to the camping atmosphere. This also helps lower the chances of your pet bothering other campers. Also, make sure your furry friend has all the proper vaccinations before venturing out into mother nature. Health is a top priority, and being up-to-date medically is a strong start. Ticks are another health concern, so
T
he 41st annual Woolly Worm Festival was held in Banner Elk on Oct. 20, 2018, to determine the fastest caterpillar in the High Country, and to predict this winter’s weather. As legend has it, little woolly worms — whose black and brown bristles resemble pipe-cleaners — are a telltale sign of the frequency and severity of wintry weather, based on the colors of each of their 13 segments representing what the weather will be like during each of winter’s 13 weeks. While the people of Punxsutawney, Pa., prefer to wait until February for a groundhog to tell them whether winter will end, the residents of Banner Elk put their faith in the winning woolly worm’s winter
prognostication before the first snow falls. Experts say a black woolly worm segment signifies below-average temperatures and snow, while dark brown segments predict below-average temperatures. Light brown segments forecast above-average temperatures, while black and brown flicks prognosticate below-average temperatures and frost or light snow. “According to completely unscientific, unreliable statistics, the Woolly Worm Festival’s winning worm is correct almost on average 80 to 90 percent of the time in predicting the severity of the coming winter,” the Woolly Worm Gazette said. During the 41st annual Wooly Worm Festival, handlers raced roughly 1,200 SEE PREDICTION ON PAGE 77
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WINNING WOOLLY WORM WINTER WEATHER PREDICTION
PHOTO BY CARL BLANEKNSHIP Montgomery County’s Best, the winning worm, taking a breather after ascending to the height of Woolly Worm fame.
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worms up three-foot lengths of wire for the honor of being crowned quickest caterpillar in the High Country, as well as the $1,000 grand prize. Once the dust settled, Carolyn Thompson and her woolly worm, “Montgomery County’s Best,” stood atop the competition.
According to the coloration of “Montgomery County’s Best,” the High Country can expect a mixed bag of wintry weather. In short, MCB’s colors predict the first three weeks of winter having below-average temperatures with snow, week four with temperatures below average and frost or light snow, then six weeks of below-average temperatures and three weeks of below-average temperatures with frost or light snow to end the season.
The full winter weather prognostication based on the colors of winning woolly worm “Montgomery County’s Best” is as follows, with each segment of the caterpillar corresponding to each week of winter: Segment 1 — black: below-average temperatures and snow Segment 2 — black: below-average temperatures and snow Segment 3 — black: below-average temperatures and snow Segment 4 — flicks: below average temperatures and frost or light snow Segment 5 — dark brown: below-average temperatures Segment 6 — dark brown: below-average temperatures Segment 7 — dark brown: below-average temperatures Segment 8 — dark brown: below-average temperatures Segment 9 — dark brown: below-average temperatures Segment 10 — dark brown: below-average temperatures Segment 11 — flicks: below average temperatures with frost or light snow Segment 12 — flicks: below average temperatures with frost or light snow Segment 13 — flicks: below average temperatures with frost or light snow
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CANINE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 76
make sure to groom your pup’s afterward to prevent long-term risks. Whichever campground you and your group decide to attend, make sure to read the rules and regulations regarding pet life. Each campground is different, with some being more accepting of pets than others. By reading up ahead of time, you’ll be able to decide which location is best for you and your pup. Be prepared for rain and snow, as weather conditions tend to change frequently in the High Country. Before leaving, be sure to pack alternatives to keep your pet warm, dry, clean, cool and happy. Most importantly, enjoy being in the great outdoors with man’s (and woman’s) best friend. Bring a toy, ball, snack or all of the above to show your pet what a treat it is to experience the all the High Country has to offer.
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Visit Our Showroom Today
Wood & Gas Stoves • Fireplaces
We also carry Kitchen Appliances! PHOTO BY ASHLEY WARREN OF NATURAL CRAFT PHOTOGRAPHY Amanda Melanson views artwork at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.
Take time to explore the wonder of area museums BY KAYLA LASURE
I
f weather is bad or someone simply wants to appreciate works of art, the High Country has two museums for people to explore. The Blowing Rock History Museum offers visitors a place to explore the history of the town of Blowing Rock while also experiencing find pieces of artwork. BRAHM — a nonprofit museum — is
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located off of Main Street in downtown Blowing Rock at 159 Chestnut St. “It’s a great place to learn about and experience Appalachian and American art and history,” said BRAHM’s Marketing and Communications Director Ashley Warren. Warren added that the facility has about six exhibits on display at any given
(828) 262-0051 | 4912 US HWY 421 S. | BOONE, NC
SEE MUSEUMS ON PAGE 81
WWW.MOUNTAINHOMEANDHEARTH.COM
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PHOTO BY ASHLEY WARREN OF NATURAL CRAFT PHOTOGRAPHY The walls of the Blowing Rock History Museum are adorned with artwork.
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PHOTO BY ASHLEY WARREN OF NATURAL CRAFT PHOTOGRAPHY Amanda Melanson enjoys artwork at the Blowing Rock History Museum.
time with three permanent exhibits — one of which features the history of the town. The museum changes its exhibits about three to four times a year and will feature new exhibits starting in November through about April or May, Warren said. The three exhibits BRAHM will be welcoming during these months include show called “Farm, Forage, Feast” by High Country Food Ways, a show called “Outsiders: the inside story of folk art” and an Affrilachian artist traveling studio. “Farm, Forage, Feast” aims to examine the intersection of cultures, economies,
education and the environment relating to the production and consumption of food in Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties. This exhibit uses oral histories, photography and local history to tell its story. It will be shown from Dec. 1 to April 20. “Outsiders: the inside story of folk art” features works of art and will be shown from Nov. 24 to May 5. The Affrilachian artist traveling studio will feature African American Appalachian artists and be shown from Nov. 17 until March 23. In addition to the exhibits, BRAHM offers monthly programming that is free for members and $5 for nonmembers. These programs consist of workshops, lectures, videos or films. It also offers weekly art classes for children. SEE MUSEUMS ON PAGE 82
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BRAHM is planned to participate in the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce’s event Winter Fest Jan. 24-27 with its “Cork and canvas” event. Opening in 2011, BRAHM is free to visitors and has a gift shop for people to enjoy. Just in 2017, the museum served 3,323 children, had 548 members and clocked 2,917 in volunteer hours. BRAHM is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. It is closed on major holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. For more information, visit blowingrockmuseum.org or call (828) 295-9099. The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts also offers free admission and is celebrating its 15th anniversary of operation this year. Located at 423 West King St. in Boone, the Turchin Center sits right off of the campus of Appalachian State University. Jackie Garner, the director of visitor and donor services at the center, said that center’s benefactors — Robert and Lillian Turchin — donated funds to the university to develop an art center. The Turchin Center changes its exhibits every four to five months with six rotating galleries — two shows per gallery. Garner said the center doesn’t typically showcase student artwork and tries to bring in outside established artist to aid in being a learning resource for university students. Turchin also offers children’s workshops. The center participates in the “first Friday” events that take place downtown the first Friday of each Monday. Businesses downtown host art showings, refreshments and live entertainment during these events. Garner said artists come during these times and the center features live music and refreshments. The first Friday in December, the center is having an exhibition celebration where it will showcase its new exhibits with the artists. Garner said the event will have a band and will be holiday themed. A few of the exhibitions the center has coming up includes the “Full Circle” photography show award winners. Garner said each year one gallery is chosen to showcase this exhibition, with Turchin selected as the chosen location this year. The choice awards recognize outstanding photographers working in all processes and subject matter. This exhibition will go from Dec. 7 to April 27. The new selections will also feature an exhibit called “Terraria Gigantica: The World Under Glass.” These photographs feature the world’s largest enclosed landscapes and will be shown from Dec. 7 to April 27. There are 10 sculptures throughout the university’s campus that people can also enjoy. These sculptures are selected in a juried competition each year and featured by Turchin. The center is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. It often operates on the university calendar, so it is closed the week of Christmas and New Years. For more information on the Turchin Center, visit tcva.appstate.edu or call (828) 262-3017.
PHOTO BY ASHLEY WARREN OF NATURAL CRAFT PHOTOGRAPHY The Blowing Rock History Museum showcases artwork in its facility.
OTHER AREA MUSEUMS Museum of Ashe County History Location: 301 East Main St., Jefferson Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed on Mondays after Jan 1. Phone: (336) 846-1904 Website: ashehistory.org
Wilkes Heritage Museum Location: 100 East Main St., Wilkesboro Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through the end of December. Not open Saturdays in January and February. Phone: (336) 667-3171 Website: wilkesheritagemuseum.com
PHOTO BY ASHLEY WARREN OF NATURAL CRAFT PHOTOGRAPHY The Blowing Rock History Museum feature a ‘The way Watauga works exhibit.’
The Children’s Playhouse Location: 400 Tracy Circle, Boone Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: (828) 263-0011 Website: goplayhouse.org
Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine and Fossil Museum Location: 111 Mystery Hill Lane, Blowing Rock Hours: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: (828) 264-4499 Website: docsrocks.net
Mystery Hill Location: 129 Mystery Hill Lane, Blowing Rock Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Phone: (828) 264-2792 Website: www.mysteryhill.com
PHOTO BY ASHLEY WARREN OF NATURAL CRAFT PHOTOGRAPHY Children take time to look at a piece of art at the Blowing Rock History Museum.
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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Build a snowman, or snow critter, and add your special touch to it – even if it is cold.
Enjoy more time in the High Country outdoors (even when it’s cold)
T
he amount of time people spend outdoors has dramatically decreased, as the Environmental Protection Agency now reports the average American spends 87 percent of his or her time in a residence, school building or workplace. Being outside is linked to better moods, more physical activity and less exposure to contaminants (concentrations of some pollutants are often two to five times higher indoors). Also, people who spend time outside may not come into contact with surface germs or develop various illnesses spread as often as those who spend a lot of time indoors. Cold weather can make the desire to be
outside less appealing, but it is important for one’s mental and physical well-being to get outside. The following activities might coax people outside for some crisp air.
Create snow critters Why do snowmen and women get all of the fanfare this time of year? Just about any living or fictional creature can be molded from snow and embellish landscapes. Use food-grade coloring in spray bottles to added even more creative flair to snow designs.
Go on a nature hike While many plants and animals hibernate in winter, there is still plenty to see.
Bring along a sketch book or camera and capture nature in winter. White-washed hills can be beautiful to behold, and many small animals and birds look even more vivid against the white backdrop of snow.
Make an obstacle course Turn an area of the yard or park into a homemade obstacle course. It’s much more difficult, — and a great workout — to try to jump over snow mounds or run down paths when decked out in warm layers. Engage in lighthearted competitions with friends and family members.
Build a bonfire Children can set off in different di-
rections to gather up firewood to craft a bonfire with adults in a safe location. S’mores taste equally delicious whether it’s warm or cold outside, and in winter they can be accompanied by toasty mugs of cocoa.
Get sporty Sledding, skating, snowshoeing, and ice hockey are just a few of the winter sports that can get the heart pumping and muscles working outside. These activities are entertaining and also great exercise. When venturing outdoors in winter, dress in layers. This way clothing can be put on or taking off to reduce the likelihood of hypothermia.
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Prepare for a High Country sledding adventure D ashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh … winter holidays are made all the more merry with the addition of some outdoor recreation. Sleighs and sleds are par for the Christmas course, especially when a bounty of snow is in the forecast. Sledding has been part of snowy celebrations for ages. Sledding is a fun-filled activity, but it can be made an even better time, and a little safer, if revelers learn a little more about it.
Sled styles Sleds come in many different styles, each with its own advantages. Sleds with metal blades will work like ice skates, balancing riders’ weight on two metal runners. These sleds can work well during icy conditions or with hard-packed snow. Toboggans can fit multiple people, which can increase the fun factor and downhill speeds. Saucer-style sleds are good for one or two people. Foam liners on some saucers can absorb shock for riders, making those downhill bumps a little easier on the backside. Keep in mind that sleds with steering mechanisms are easier to control, which can equate to safer sledding.
Layer up It is best to dress in layers when going sledding Even if it seems warm at home, it may be colder and windier at the top of hills. Sweating when it’s cold out can increase a person’s risk for hypothermia. According to experts at Timberline Trails, a person who works up a sweat and comes in contact with ambient air when taking a break will feel an immediate chill. This is called evaporative danger, and can be remedied by dressing in layers and trying to stay dry.
Invest in a helmet Sledding requires the use of a helmet. At high speeds, a blow to the head can cause a concussion or worse.
Let others go first Wait until some sledders have already gone downhill, allowing them to compact the snow, which should make for a smooth ride. Choose safe hills, such as those that are free of bare spots, holes, trees, and obstructions, and do not end abruptly at a road. Hills with a long, flat areas at the end make for easy, safe stopping.
Safety first Put safety first when sledding. Sled during the daytime so visibility is better. Keep arms and legs on the sled, and only sled feet-first, advises the National Safety Council. By keeping these guidelines in mind, sledders can make sure this popular winter activity is as safe as it is fun.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED The High Country has so many options to sled you can get tired just thinking of where to go.
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Shopping in the High Country A few of the best things to buy in December and January
O
h the weather outside is frightful. Rather than succumb to cabin fever, people can use the winter months as the perfect time to visit High Country stores and score a few
deals. Savvy shoppers understand that key items go on sale at specific points throughout the year. Learning how to shop the sales can lead to considerable savings.
December
1. Toys: Toys are perhaps the best items to purchase in December. Apart from Christmas gifts, it is a good time of year to stock up on toys children have coveted, which can be put away for birthday presents or other occasions. Retailers tend to lower toy prices as Christmas approaches. 2. Holiday decor: Decorative holiday items also tend to be heavily discounted in December. Stores slash prices on ornaments, gift wrap, artificial trees, holiday-themed baking items, and much, much more. If it has a passing connection to the holidays, chances are stores will cut prices by 50 percent or more once Christmas is over. 3. Televisions: It’s possible to find discounted TVs even after the Black Friday sales have come and gone. Keep eyes trained on the circulars and jump when sales are advertised, as inventory may be limited. 4: Bubbly: Competition in the market will help drive down the cost of champagne and other sparkling wines. According to the wine resource GuildSomm, 22 percent of all champagne sales are run during the month of December.
January
5. Winter apparel: As the winter progresses, the amount of clothing stock in stores starts to dwindle to free up room for a new season’s worth of attire. Starting in late December and continuing into the latter half of January, retailers are eager to liquidate their stock of scarves, sweaters, boots, and winter coats. This is a prime time to replenish wardrobes. 6. Linens: “White sales” are traditionally in January, with home goods retailers running discounts all month long. These sales generally encompass towels, bed sheets,
PHOTOS SUBMITTED Winter apparel is always a hit when the prices are right.
curtains, and other linens. 7. Fitness items: January is the ideal time to purchase a new gym membership or fitness equipment since these purchases tie into New Year’s resolutions to get fit. Gyms may waive extra fees or offer discounted rates. 8. Travel and entertainment: Most people
return home after the holidays, and that can generate a slow travel season afterward. The travel industry attracts new customers with discounted hotel rates and other deals. Tickets to shows and theaters also may be discounted to encourage people to leave the house. December and January are great times to grab steep deals on an array of products.
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PHOTOS SUBMITTED Credit cards are often a safe and effective way to handle holiday and everyday spending.
5
reasons it’s smart to use credit when holiday shopping
T
he average American shopper will spend about $975 on holiday gifts, according to past spending trends and estimates from the American Research Group and the National Retail Federation. Although shoppers have various payment options at their disposal, the use of credit cards remains a popular and financially savvy way to handle purchases, albeit when done correctly.
1. Build your credit history. Creditors look at how individuals use credit cards when determining credit scores. One of the biggest components of a credit scoring model is payment history, or the pattern of using credit and paying it back on time. Making repeated
purchases on credit cards and then paying the bill when it is due can result in a spike in credit score and help consumers build a healthy credit history. The key is to make payments in full and on time.
2. Credit is safer than carrying cash. Stores are very busy during the holiday rush, and consumers are easily distracted. Carrying around large sums of cash for purchases can put you at risk for theft or losing the money along the way. There’s little chance of having lost or stolen cash returned, but a credit card can be cancelled and replaced. Plus, financial institutions have security protocols in place to freeze accounts and erase purchases that were made under fraudulent
scenarios.
3. Track your purchases. Credit card companies track all purchases and will itemize shopping excursions on cardholders’ statements. This can make it much easier to keep track of your spending. In addition, some stores do not require receipts for purchases made with credit cards.
4. Earn reward points while spending. Competition in the credit card world is stiff, and many financial institutions are trying to entice customers with special deals for signing up and using their cards. Some credit cards give cash back. Others accrue points based on spending
on particular categories, such as dining or travel. Rewards can be redeemed in various ways and can be a big bonus of using credit over cash.
5. Cards may come with warranties. Credit cards can provide built-in warranties on purchases made on the card, such as replacement coverage for an electronic device or cancellation insurance on a trip. What’s more, if you have a dispute with a merchant or aren’t happy with something you bought, you can often request a chargeback through the credit card company. Credit cards have many advantages, but it’s imperative that consumers pay their balances in full and on time.
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Pets and holiday gifting F urry, finned and feathered friends help make a house a home. These companions are more than just pets; they’re often cherished family members. So it should come as no surprise that, come the holidays, people want to lavish extra attention on their animals by way of presents. The American Pet Products Association says pet owners spend billions of dollars on their pets each year. The majority of pet owners plan to gift their pets on holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Halloween and Christmas. DogTime.com says that pet presents are not a North American phenomenon, either. Pet owners are expected to spend $46 per pet on gifts. While dog owners are more likely to buy their pets gifts, cat owners have been closing that gap over the years. Some pet parents
even offer Christmas cards or hang Christmas stockings for their pets. According to data from PricewaterhouseCoopers, shoppers between the ages of 17 and 21 are willing to spend more than anyone else ($70) on holiday gifts for their pets. Gifting pets has become the norm, but various animal welfare organizations advise that giving companion animals as pets should be avoided. Pets given as gifts may be at a higher risk for surrender to shelters by families who miscalculated the amount of time and money that’s necessary to care for pets. Welcoming a pet into the family is often a personal decision, and one that should be weighed carefully by all members of the household.
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Keep your natural tree fresh this Christmas
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atural Christmas tree afficionados love the authenticity such trees provide during the holiday season. Natural trees also provide a unique aroma that can make holiday celebrations feel more homey. When purchasing natural trees, holiday celebrants, especially those who like to buy their trees in early December, may be concerned about keeping their trees fresh throughout the holiday season. The following tips can help trees last until the final present is unwrapped and the last of the egg nog has been consumed. • Buy a freshly cut tree. Whenever possible, celebrants should cut their own trees. This ensures that the tree they bring home is fresh, increasing the chances it will remain so throughout the season. If it’s not possible to cut your own tree, the National Fire Protection Association notes that fresh trees should have green needles that do not come off when touched. Trees that appear to be dried out or those that shed needles when touched should be avoided. • Protect trees on the way home. The Tree Care Industry Association advises consumers to protect their Christmas trees as they transport them home. Wrap the tree in a plastic wrap so it makes it home damage-free. A damaged tree might not make it through the holiday season. • Cut pre-cut trees before leaving the lot. Pre-cut trees can make it through the holiday season looking their best, but buyers should request that employees cut as much as two inches off the bottom of the tree before leaving the lot. Once trees are cut, sap begins to seal their base, making it hard for them to absorb water. By requesting that between one and two inches be removed from the bottom of the tree at the time of purchase, buyers are ensuring their trees will be able to absorb the water they’ll need to make it through the season when they get home. • Place the tree in water the moment you get home. To prevent the base of the tree from drying out, place it in water the moment you get home. Freshly cut trees may initially need the water in their tree stands filled in the morning and then again in the evening. As the season progresses, trees likely won’t need their stands filled more than once per day. • Place the tree away from heat sources. Placing trees away from heat sources, such as radiators, fireplaces, heating vents, and lights, reduces the likelihood that trees will dry out and also reduces the risk of fire.
A few simple strategies can help holiday revelers ensure their Christmas trees make it through the holiday season unscathed.
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WINTER TIMES
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SUBMITTED PHOTO Poinsettias are seemingly everywhere come the holiday season.
C
Are poinsettias poisonous?
hristmas trees, Santa Claus, menorahs, and glittering lighting displays are just a few of the many prominent symbols of the holiday season. And while mistletoe might garner more attention and inspire more displays of affection, poinsettias are another prominent sign that the holiday season has arrived. Thanks to its bright red and green colors, the poinsettia is perhaps the ideal holiday plant. But as much as it suits holiday decor and seems tailor-made for that special time of year between Thanksgiving and the first of January, the poinsettia has a reputation that few
plants would want. First discovered in Mexico and brought to the United States by Dr. Joel Poinsett, the poinsettia has long been rumored to be poisonous. However, the National Capital Poison Center notes that poinsettias are not deadly. In fact, the NCPC notes that the rumor that poinsettias are deadly may have been around for more than a century, tracing its origins all the way back to a child who was found dead lying next to a poinsettia plant. The plant was blamed for the child’s death, and even though that blame was misplaced, the stigma stuck. WebMD notes that others trace
the false rumors surrounding poinsettias to 1919, when parents blamed the death of their daughter, who they thought had eaten poinsettia leaves, on this ubiquitous holiday plant. Even today, when researchers have long since proven that poinsettias are not deadly, many people still believe they can be fatal if consumed. The NCPC notes that, in most cases, exposure to any part of a poinsettia plant in children or pets has little, if any, effect. However, if the plant is swallowed, some people and pets may experience symptoms including nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Some who
touch the plant may develop a rash after contact. While poinsettias are not deadly, the NCPC still advises those who plant to include the plant in their holiday decor to take every measure necessary to prevent children and pets from swallowing it. Placing poinsettias beyond the reach of kids and pets is one simple way to accomplish just that. Poinsettias are seemingly everywhere come the holiday season. And because they’re not fatal, celebrants can continue to display these beautiful plants that call to mind the colors of the holiday season.
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PHOTO SUBMITTED With a few easy tweaks, meals can be made much more healthy.
How to make your favorite foods healthier
A
fter the whirlwind of the holiday season, the season of resolutions takes over. Many people to resolve to live healthier, and they may not have to give up their favorite foods to do so. Research from the National Institutes of Health suggests American adults between the ages of 18 and 49 gain an average of one to two pounds every year. Grazing and overeating tends to increase when the weather cools down. A 2005 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that, in the fall, people tend to consume more calories, total fat and saturated fat. In the spring, people seem to prefer more carbohydrates. In addition, less powerful sunshine in
winter coupled with people bundling up translates into less vitamin D being absorbed by the body. Some researchers believe there is a link between vitamin D deficiency and weight gain as well. To ensure that certain foods do not sabotage healthy eating plans, people can employ some easy modifications and make healthier versions of the foods they like to eat. • Choose crunchy foods. Those who are prone to snacking can reach for noisy foods. These include crunchy items like apples, carrots and pretzels. Scientists say that when people listen to what they are chewing — called the “crunch effect” — they eat less of that item. • Tone down the cream.
Delicious dishes like fettuccine alfredo typically are made with lots of butter and cream. Replace cream sauces with a healthier base made of low-fat milk thickened with flour. Increase the flavor with favorite spices. • Fry with care. Use healthy oils like olive or coconut sparingly. Many foods that are traditionally fried also can be lightly coated with cooking spray and baked for a crunchy texture. • Choose sodium-free seasonings. The USCA recommends limiting sodium to less than 1 teaspoon of salt per day. Try options like fresh herbs or lemon juice to add some sodium-free flavor. • Increase fiber content.
Fiber helps one feel fuller longer and can also be helpful for digestion and heart health. Choose the “brown” varieties of rice, pasta and breads. • Replace meat with leaner forms of protein. Lean chicken, turkey and pork can replace red meats in many recipes. Some traditional meat dishes, such as burgers, also can be modified using vegetables or seafood. Lean meats dry out quickly, so keep foods moist by watching cooking times. • Stock up on yogurt. Greek and other varieties of yogurt can replace sour cream and mayonnaise in many dishes. Resolving to eat healthier can be easy by making some simple swaps when preparing your favorite foods.
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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE If you like to snowshoe, cross country ski or just hike, the Moses Cone Carriage Trails are the trails used often by winter outdoor enthusiasts.
WINTER HIKING Some trails just can’t be reached, but ...
F
or the hearty, well-equipped adventurous spirit, hiking isn’t just a summer activity. In fact, the cold weather provides a challenging and unique perspective of some the High Country’s best-traveled trails. If you’re interested in a high-elevation haul up the side of a mountain or a flatter trajectory is more your taste, there are facilities and trails blazed all over the area to suit your needs.
LEE AND VIVIAN REYNOLDS GREENWAY TRAIL The greenway is located behind State Farm Road in Boone, with an entrance by the Watauga County Parks and Recreation complex and the National Guard Armory. The paved trail is 3 miles long, but relatively flat, winding back and forth past a creek. Some other hiking trails go off the main path. More information is available at (828) 264-9511. A full greenway map is available at www.townofboone. net.
suit the level of walking difficulty of your choice. Ask at the Manor House during operating hours for a recommendation of the best trail for your plan — some trails also allow horseback riding.
JULIAN PRICE LAKE LOOP TRAIL The Price Lake Loop Trail at Julian Price Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Boone and Blowing Rock is a 2.7-mile trail around the fishing and canoeing hot spot, Price Lake. The relatively flat trail is ideal for trail runners and walkers alike. The park also has six other trails that range from moderate to strenuous (including the famed 13.5-mile Tanawha Trail).
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN Although Grandfather Mountain in the Linville area has some of the most strenuous hikes in the High Country along the face-silhouette peaks, it also boasts some lesser difficulty trails. The gentler paths can be reached via the summit road, creating a low-impact chance to view the area’s natural landscapes.
MOSES H. CONE MEMORIAL PARK Whether you are looking for a strenuous hike up a mountain or a light walk on the paved paths, Cone Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Boone and Blowing Rock has more than 25 miles of trails to
in 2104. Located on 40 acres of church-owned conservation land, this 3-mile loop is free and for pedestrians only. There is no camping, no guns and no alcohol allowed. Dogs on leashes are allowed.
BOONE UNITED TRAIL One of the area’s newest trails is the Boone United Trail, created by volunteers under the direction of Boone United Methodist Church and officially opened
EMERALD OUTBACK TRAILS The Emerald Outback Trail is located atop of Beech Mountain. A year-round destination for hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers, the trail has an average altitude of 5,400 feet and features eight miles of gorgeous and challenging trails, as well as some spots with 50-mile views. Built by the town of Beech Mountain, the trail is free and open to the public seven days per week.
HEBRON ROCK COLONY/BOONE FORK LOOP TRAIL Spanning the length of a massive low-slope waterfall, the trails around Hebron Rock Colony offer some of the most unique scenery in the area. In winter, it is advisable to use extreme caution around the frigid water and possible slippery rocks. Like always, make sure you dress appropriately for changing weather conditions. Hebron Rock Colony can be accessed from the Julian Price Memorial Park picnic area between Blue Ridge Parkway mileposts 296 and 297.
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High Country wines of the winter BY IAN TAYLOR
WINERIES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
T
he winter can be a bit of a deterrent when it comes to going out and trying new things. But why sit at home with wine that comes from a box when you can visit one of the many wineries and vineyards in North Carolina? Good news, the High Country has you covered.
BANNER ELK WINERY AND VILLA Banner Elk Winery and Villa was the first winery in Avery County after opening in 2005, and since then has made its mark as one of the premiere wineries in the High Country. It’s won awards including a gold, silver and two bronze medals for its products at the 2016 North Carolina State Fair. Aside from the wine, Banner Elk Winery and Villa features numerous suites for guests to stay in, and is a destination wedding location. For more information on Banner Elk Winery and Villa, visit www.bannerelkwinery.com.
GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY Starting as a hobby sized vineyard, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Banner Elk grew into a business and opened its doors in 2011. Talk about a scenic view, the Watauga River flows right down the middle of the property. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery offers shipping of its products to approximately 34 states. Products range from $9.95 for the 22 ounce hard cider to the $26.95 bottles of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wineries tasting room allows guests to choose from four tasting experiences: eight dry wines for $10, four dry reds for $6, four dry whites for $6 or four sweet wines for $6. Reservations are not needed for the tasting room, and the area is pet friendly. For a group of eight or more visitors, it’s requested to call 48 hours in advance. For more information on Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, visit www.grandfathervineyard.com.
LINVILLE FALLS WINERY Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Linville Falls Winery offers a space for weddings, private events, classes and
PHOTO SUBMITTED Starting as a hobby sized vineyard, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Banner Elk grew into a business and opened its doors in 2011.
reservations. Guests can get a tasting experience that is both child and pet friendly. For those of age, chosen wines can be tasted in 1 ounce pours with requests taken for a glass or a bottle. Guests can pair that with live music on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. This winery grows several types of grapes for its wine, such as Rielsing, Seyval Blanc, Noiret, Marquette, Petit Verdot, and Foch; so there’s something for everything. The farm also grows blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, heirloom apples, pumpkins and Christmas Trees. For more information on Linville Falls Winery, visit www.linvillefallswinery. com.
the Bourgeron, easy-drinking taste with fresh berry flavors, the Feather Bed White, which has hints of green apple, melon and citrus and Double Black, with a taste of sweet black cherries and Pinot Noir. The winery was recently ranked third among North Carolina wineries by the South Eastern Winery Review and scored a perfect “10” in friendliness. Thistle Meadow can create custom wines and blends as well as private label products. For more information on Thistle Meadow Winery, visit www.thistlemeadowwinery.com.
MENARICK VINEYARD & WINERY THISTLE MEADOW WINERY Thistle Meadow Winery is the choice winery of Alleghany County. Thistle Meadow offers 30 to 45 minute winery tours as well as wine tastings, with each guest able to taste up to five wines. There is a variety of 60 different wines to choose from; selections can be found in dry red, dry white, blush/sweet and cooking wines. Wine examples include
MenaRick Vineyard & Winery is a family owned vineyard in Wilkes County that specializes in in Spanish and Portuguese varietals. The winery chooses not to filter its products, believing that it helps keep the authenticity of the wine’s aroma and flavor intact. MenaRick is currently offering 10 wines for guests to enjoy in its tasting room, including the black-
Banner Elk Winery and Villa Banner Elk 60 Deer Run Lane (828) 898-9090 bannerelkwinery.com Grandfather Vineyard and Winery Banner Elk 225 Vineyard Lane (828) 963-2400 grandfathervineyard.com Linville Falls Winery Linville Fallse 9557 Linville Falls Highway (828) 765-1400 linvillefallswinery.com Thistle Meadow Winery Laurel Springs 102 Thistle Meadow (800) 233-1505 thistlemeadowwinery.com MenaRick Vineyard & Winery Ronda 328 Luffman Road (336) 328-7038 menarick.com Roaring River Vineyards Traphill 493 Brewer Mill Road (336) 957-2332 roaringrivervineyards.com
berry and peach wines, a Portuguese style Vinho Branco wine and a light red Grenache wine. Bottles of wine can also be purchased for $21 to $27, depending on the wine. For more information on MenaRick Vineyard and Winery, visit www. menarick.com.
ROARING RIVER VINEYARDS Another winery located in Wilkes County is Roaring River Vineyards, which officially opened in 2016. Roaring Rivers offers a selection of six wines such as its crisp Chardonnay, a French-American hybrid of its Chambourcin wine and the Traminette wine with grapefruit and citrus flavors. Wine lovers can enjoy wine Tastings of up to six different wines for $10, a glass of wine for $8 or a bottle of wine for $24. Reservations are required for groups of eight or more. Roaring River Vineyards also offer restaurant and lodging options. For more information on Roaring River Vineyards, call (336) 957-2332.
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BY IAN TAYLOR
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Cold brews for the WINTER BREWERIES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
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inter is a top-four season for beer, with many new brews coming out every year using spices and flavors that increase in popularity as the temperature decreases. The High Country is home to numerous breweries willing to take chances and take advantage of the classic combination of cold and beer.
APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN BREWERY Appalachian Mountain Brewery, or AMB, is a staple of Boone life. With more than 100 beers and ciders to choose from, you can always try something new at AMB, and find something you love. Their numerous beverage options include the famous Boone Creek Blonde, Long Leaf IPA, Mystic Dragon Cider and the SpoatyOaty. AMB also has events every week including open mic nights, fundraisers and charitable endeavors. For more information, you can go to their website, amb.beer, or call (828) 263-1111.
BEECH MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY Yes, one more thing to do at Beech Mountain Resort, but this one has heating and beer, making a great stop during the weekend. As one of the only US breweries owned and operated by a ski area, Beech Mountain Brewing Company is dedicated to mountain enthusiasts of all kinds, which reflects in their brews. Beech Mountain is a ski resort, so the Slopeside Saison is right at home, a combination of the classic Saison and a Farmhouse Ale. Alongside it is the Chocolate Porter, with its rich chocolate flavors making the cold melt away, and the signature Beech Blonde, a classic Blond Ale for everyone who comes through the doors. One thing to note is that Beech Mountain Brewing Company is only open Friday through Sunday, so plan ahead. For more information, you can go online to their website, beechmountainresort.com/mountain/brewery, or call (828) 387-2011.
BLOWING ROCK BREWING In their 11 years of brewing, Blowing Rock Brewing has stuck to their core values of capturing the finest qualities of
PHOTO COURTESY PIXELS ON PAPER INC. Gary Brown, owner and head brewer of Boondocks Brewery in West Jefferson, works inside his Brew Haus.
the High Country and sustainability. Their Midnight Raspberry Wheat is brewed with dark roasted wheat and fermented with real raspberries, while the Red Rider is malt driven and deep amber-red in color, with moderate hop intensity. These two won gold and bronze medals respectively at the Carolina Championships of Beer Awards. Blowing Rock Brewing uses only locally-sourced materials and recycles as much as they can, priding themselves on sustaining the land that provides so much for their products. For more information, you can go online to their website, blowingrockbrewing.com, or call (828) 414-9600.
BOONDOCKS BREWING Boondocks is a constant presence in the West Jefferson and Ashe County communities, and their beers reflect that. The brewery has released beers like the Blue Ridge Brutal Brown, which celebrates the endurance of the annual Blue Ridge Brutal Bike Race, the West Jefferson Centennial Ale, which was first brewed for the celebration of West Jefferson’s 100th Anniversary and the Crumpler Crippler Citra IPA, named after the community in Ashe County. Boondocks is home to both the Brew Haus and a restaurant section, so those who just want to drink and want a bite
are covered. For more information, you can go to their website, www.boondocksbeer.com, or call (336) 246-5222.
BOONESHINE BREWING COMPANY Founded in 2015 by two friends who like beer, Booneshine is known for limited runs and beers that get the job done. Booneshine produces a lot of beers that aren’t around long, such as the Hatchet Coffee Porter, a collaboration with the Hatchet Coffee company in Boone, the 3150 Ale, named after the elevation of the brewery and the Bitter Faculty IPA, with the proceeds from this beer going to the nonprofit Ivory Tower Inc. and the App State Fermentation Sciences department. Booneshine’s tasting room is right next door at Basil’s, and their beer can be paired with appetizers like the Stick Boy pretzels and beer cheese, salads, deli sandwiches, fresh made pasta and sauces. For more information, you can go to their website, booneshine.beer, or call (828) 386-4066.
FLAT TOP MOUNTAIN BREWERY Flat Top Mountain Brewery was founded after Nathan Paris fell in love with Banner Elk and the excellent mountain water quality, which he felt was perfect
Appalachian Mountain Brewery Boone 163 Boone Creek Drive (828) 263-1111 amb.beer Beech Mountain Brewing Company Beech Mountain 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy. (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com/mountain/ brewery Blowing Rock Brewing Company Blowing Rock 152 Sunset Drive (828) 414-9600 blowingrockbrewing.com Booneshine Brewing Company Boone 246 Wilson Drive L (828) 386-4066 booneshine.beer Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant West Jefferson 108 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-5222 www.boondocksbeer.com Flat Top Brewing Company Banner Elk 567 Main St. East (828) 898-8677 www.flattopbrew.com Lost Province Brewing Company Boone 130 N. Depot St. (828) 265-3506 lostprovince.com Molley Chomper Lansing 165 Piney Creek Rd. (404) 769-1439 molleychomper.com New River Brewing Lansing 9211-A Hwy. 194 (919) 452-8367 newriverbrewing.beer for making beer. On tap is the Wunderbier, a contemporary German style lager with a rich, golden color and creamy, white head. Joining it is the Cherry Panda, with its 10.2 percent alcohol by volume, the oatmeal cherry stout is a dangerous winter pleasure due to its undetectable ABV. Flat Top brews can be found all over SEE BREWERIES ON PAGE 100
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dients that they get from local farmers in Ashe and the surrounding counties, saying that they want to know who’s growing their product. For more information, you can go online to their website, www.molleychomper.com, or call (404) 769-1439.
BREWERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 99
the High Country at places such as The TAPP Room, Boondocks and Famous Fast Eddie’s. For more information, you can go online to their website, flattopbrew.com, or call (828) 898-8677.
NEW RIVER BREWING
LOST PROVINCE Downtown Boone’s microbrewery, just the names of some of Lost Province’s beers will make you want to get lost in their menu. The Bless Your Heart Blonde Ale is the easy-drinking beer anyone can enjoy during lunch or after a hard day’s work. Hipster Juice is a New-England style IPA which is dry-hopped twice for pineapple, passion fruit and mango flavors. The Drunk Uncle Dunkel is brewed from only light and dark Munich malts, and just sounds cool when you order. You can also grab a bite to pair with your beer, with wood fired pizzas, meat and cheese boards and classic pub fare lining the menu. Lost Province takes buying from local farmers very seriously, so you might end up sitting next to the person who grew your dinner.
2018
PHOTO BY IAN TAYLOR The mission statement on the garage door at Appalachian Mountain Brewery.
For more information, you can go online to their website, lostprovince.com, or call (828) 265-3506.
MOLLEY CHOMPER Molley Chomper is based out of Lansing in Ashe County, and has a passion for making delicious ciders that people will love and show off the fruit and farmers of the southern Appalachia region.
Some of their ciders include the Porch Swing, which is made with wild crab apples that grow up the hill from their farm, the Mountain Maelstrom, which uses fruit grown in Ashe and Watauga Counties and the Hopped Molley, which is made with a little bit of hops for an added bonus. Molley Chomper takes a lot of pride in using fruits, berries and other ingre-
Founded by the father-and-son team of Greg and Adam Hershner, the Lansing-based brewery is quickly becoming a staple in restaurants and stores in the area. Some of their beers include their classic Pale Ale has notes of carmel and toffee, a toasty finish and a slight bitter from English hops. Their High Country Blonde has a slightly sweet finish which is accented by the moderate addition of Centennial hops, and the Golden Ale, a English-style golden ale, is nicknamed the “Old Caboose” in recognition of the Virginia Creeper caboose sitting in downtown West Jefferson. New River’s brews can be found in establishments throughout the High Country such as The Rock and Macado’s in Boone, and Carolina Country Wines and Craft Beers in West Jefferson. For more information, you can go to their website, newriverbrewing.beer, or call (919) 452-8367.
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2018
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Your Winter Times Calendar NOV. 23 — DEC. 29
DEC. 7
TWEETSIE CHRISTMAS: Enjoy the wonder of the Tweetsie Railroad theme park dazzlingly lit for the holidays, with a nighttime train ride and attractions to celebrate the Christmas season. Advance tickets required (to ensure admission). The event takes place from 5-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 23-24, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 and 28-29. For more info, visit tweetsie.com/special-events/tweetsie-christmas.
TREE LIGHTING: Join the Jones House Cultural and Community Center in Boone for the annual lighting of the Christmas tree on Friday, Dec. 7. This annual event kicks off at 5:45 p.m. with performances by the Watauga High School Honors Choir and Women’s Chamber and a tour of the Mazie Jones Gallery. At 6:30 p.m., we’ll officially start the holiday season by lighting the Christmas tree on the Jones House lawn with the help of the Appalachian State University Sustainable Energy Society. Then enjoy live music with the annual singer-songwriter presentation by Split-Rail Records at 6:45 p.m. in the Jones House.The event coincides with downtown Boone’s First Friday Art Crawl. For more information, visit www. joneshouse.org. FESTIVE FIRST FRIDAY: Enjoy wine tastings, refreshments, art shows, music jams, the annual Christmas tree lighting and horse-drawn carriage rides. Children of all ages can meet and greet a Snowman, The Grinch and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy holiday dancers, performers and carolers on King Street and at various shops and other stops, including the county library, the historic Post Office, the Jones House and the Appalachian Theatre. Bring a bag of marshmallows and join in on a marshmallow “snowball” fight to cap off the evening. First Friday runs February through December each year. Shop, mingle and meet local artists from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at downtown shops and galleries. Enjoy fresh art, lively street performers and complimentary refreshments. Stay late for music, food and drinks at one of Boone’s many popular restaurants. WINTER EXHIBITION CELEBRATION: Join Turchin Center for the Visual Arts in downtown Boone during the First Friday Art Crawl on Friday, Dec. 7, from 6 to 10 p.m. The gallery will celebrate “Full Circle: 2018 Center Award Winners,” “Terraria Gigantica: The World Under Glass,” by Dana Fritz and “The Broken Fragments of My Heart,” by Rachel Stevens. The event is free and open to
NOV. 23 — JAN. 27, 2019 FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Chetola Resort features a sparkling display of lights each winter season. The “Festival of Lights” is free and open to the public, and you are invited to enjoy thousands of dazzling illuminations throughout the resort. As you drive or stroll around Chetola Lake, view glittering ice skaters, “Rudolph” reeling in a big fish, strolling carolers and many more captivating holiday scenes. The “Festival of Lights” begins Thanksgiving weekend on Friday, Nov. 24 and remains up through Blowing Rock WinterFest till Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019. The displays illuminate at dusk each evening.
NOV. 29 — DEC. 3 FESTIVAL OF TREES: Chetola Resort hosts the fourth annual Festival of Trees from Nov. 29 through Dec. 2. The indoor event, a benefit for Western Youth Network, features more than 75 decorated trees and wreaths. Attendees are invited to bid on the trees and wreaths and take one (or more) home after the event. Each one will have a theme and many even have gifts included. Festival attendance is free, but donations are encouraged. The four-day festival also features gift baskets and raffle items, and a calendar of more special events. For more information, go to wynfestivaloftrees.com. TWO ON TAP: Get ready for a toe-tapping, music-filled night to kick off the holiday season on Thursday, Nov. 29, at the Ashe Civic Center. Singing and dancing into the evening will be Ronald D. Stefano and Melissa Giattano on stage as Two on Tap. The Happy Holidays show
PHOTO SUBMITTED The Holiday Christmas Art Crawl in downtown West Jefferson will feature shops, galleries and studios all decked out in their holiday finery from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30.
combines seasonal music with song and dance. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students and are available at the Ashe Arts Center or by calling (336) 846-2787.
NOV. 30 CHRISTMAS PARADE: The Town of Newland will hold their annual Christmas in Newland. It will begin with a parade, lineup will begin on Park Street at 4:30 p.m.; businesses, schools, churches and other organizations are welcome to participate. There will be refreshments and hot cocoa at Town Hall, and there will be an opportunity to take a picture with Santa. For more information, contact Keith Hoilman at 828-733-2023. CHRISTMAS CRAWL: The Holiday Christmas Art Crawl in downtown West Jefferson will feature shops, galleries and studios all decked out in their holiday finery from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30. Sponsored by the Ashe County Arts Council, the Christmas Crawl showcases and promotes the varied artistic talents in downtown West Jefferson just
in time for your holiday shopping.
NOV. 30 — DEC. 9 FARM TOURS: Christmas Mini-Tours and shopping will take place at Apple Hill Farm Fridays through Sundays, through Dec. 9. Mini tours of the farm will take place every 30 minutes between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday, from Nov. 16 to Dec. 9. This tour is a guided walking tour of the farm and is generally 45 minutes. Please remember to dress for the weather and wear closed-toed walking shoes. Stop at the shop for some hot chocolate and to buy your table top tree, hand-tied wreaths and all your alpaca Christmas presents. The farm is located at 400 Apple Hill Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604. For more information, call 828-963-1662.
DEC. 5 WINTER EXHIBITION CELEBRATION: Join Blowing Rock Art and History Museum from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 6 as the museum celebrates the opening of our winter 2018-2019 exhibits. The opening is free and open to the public.
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information or for those interested in participating in the parade, call (828) 268-6280.
DEC. 8-24
the public, with a chance to meet the artists, live music, refreshments and a cash bar. The Turchin Center is located at 423 W. King St., Boone. For more information, visit tcva.org/exhibitions or call (828) 262-3017.
SANTA AT SUGAR: The jolly old elf himself, Santa Clause, will be skiing, riding and taking pictures with all the good boys and girls from Dec. 9 through 24 at Sugar Mountain Resort.
DEC. 7-9
DEC. 9
SUGARFEST: Sugar Mountain Resort hosts a weekend of fun from Dec. 7 to 9. Participants can expect to rub shoulders with Olympians Paul Wylie & Andrew Weibrecht, test drive this season’s skis and snowboards, view a wintery fireworks show, listen to music from Glen Harlow and North Fork band, and partake in an apres ski/snowboard party or the mini snowboard games. An intensive three-day ski clinic shakes campers into physical shape. Lodging deals are abundant. A hot chocolate with whipped cream bar and North Carolina BBQ headline SugarFEAST. And of course, Sugar Mountain Ski Resort features skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing and snowshoeing. For a full schedule of events, click to www. skisugar.com/sugarfest.
RECKLESS RAIL JAM: On Sunday, Dec. 9, Beech Mountain Resort is bringing back the RECklESS Rail Jam with a new look. This early season rail jam is going to knock the dust off of those boards and get the season fired up! With it being early season the idea is to have a staple/basic rail setup, most likely one tier with a few different options for all levels of riding. Nothing fancy just good ole fashion rail riding! How many tricks you have in your bag will be in your favor! This will be 100 percent jam format. Everyone on all levels will be riding as one group. The Top 3 riders will be taking home some killer prizes as well as a stand out grom and stand out womens rider. For more info, call 828-387-2011 or visit beechmountainresort.com.
DEC. 7, 9, 14, 15, 16 BANNER ELK CHRISTMAS: From Dec. 7 to 16, Ensemble Stage presents a holiday musical variety show patterned after the Andy Williams and Bing Crosby television Christmas specials of the ‘60s and ‘70s with women in beautiful dresses, guys in tuxedoes, lots of singing, dancing, comedy sketches and more. Shows begins at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. on Sundays at the Cultural Arts Center at the Historic Banner Elk School. For more information and tickets, visit www.ensemblestage. com.
DEC. 8 CHRISTMAS PARADE: The annual downtown Boone Christmas Parade starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8. The parade travels through downtown with lots of treats and surprises. Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Christmas elves will even make a special appearance. For more
DEC. 14 AN APPALACHIAN CHRISTMAS CONCERT: On Friday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.), An Appalachian Christmas will be performed at Grace Lutheran Church, located on 115 E King St. This Annual Appalachian Christmas Concert is a gift to the people of the High Country in and around Boone and Blowing Rock. We celebrate the giving spirit of JSMHM’s founder, Joe Shannon, to wind up our 25th anniversary season in honor of Joe’s vision for preserving our traditional mountain music, singing dancing and storytelling. The performers all donate their talents to present this JSMHM special concert that serves as a fundraiser for two worthy non-profit charities – The Hospitality House and Santa’s Toy Box. The concert is free, but a Love Offering will be collected and shared equally between these two wonderful community non-profits. This concert is
presented by Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music.
DEC. 15 LITTLE FAMILY CONCERT: On Saturday, Dec. 15, the Jones House in downtown Boone will host a concert by the Little Family — Jeff, Jerrell and Luke. There will be two seatings/shows, one at 4 p.m. and one at 7:30 p.m. Advanced reservation recommended. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the show. Tickets are $20 per person. For more information, call 828-268-6280.
DEC. 21 BOURBON BATTLE: Come taste a flight of bourbon and help pick out the best bourbon for Beech Mountain Resort’s winter season. Sponsored by the Beech Mountain Bourbon Society, this is a blind tasting. Flights, tasting glasses, blank tasting notes along with tasting wheels are provided. A gift basket of SEE CALENDAR ON PAGE 104
DEC. 11 COFFEE WITH THE CURATOR: Take a walk through the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum galleries with the curator from 11 a.m. to noon on Dec. 11. Get a behind-the-scenes look into “Farm, Forage, Feast: High Country Foodways.” Coffee with the curator is free for museum members and $5 for non-members.
DEC. 13 ELF THE MUSICAL: Watauga County Parks and Rec’s Road Trippin’ series includes “Elf: The Musical” in Abingdon, Va., on Dec. 13. Leave from 231 Complex Drive in Boone at 10 a.m. and. Lunch will be at the Peppermill Restaurant on your own prior to the matinee. The group will return by 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person. To register or for more information, email keron.poteat@ watgov.org or call (828) 264-9511.
120 Campground Rd. Vilas, NC 28692 828-297-3486 • vanderpoolcampground.com • 321-271-8068
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all things Beech Mountain Bourbon Society is available for raffle! Proceeds benefit Smile on ADG Memorial Fund, providing musical instruments to local middle and high schools of the High Country. Seating starts at 6 p.m., the bourbon battle starts at 6:30 p.m. lasting until 9 p.m. when results are tallied and a winner announced! For more information on Beech Mountain, Bourbon Society or to become a member, visit their webpage: www.bmbsnc.com.
DEC. 31 FAMILY NYE CELEBRATION: For the younger crowd, Beech Mountain Resort offers “Family Night” in the Lodge from 7 p.m. to midnight, free of charge. DJ Pete Welter will be spinning fun party tunes to get everyone moving. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Don’t forget to lace up your ice skates for a New Year’s Eve Late Night Ice Skate from 10 p.m. to 12 a.m. There will also be a fantastic firework show at midnight to ring in 2019. For more info, call 828-387-2011 or visit beechmountainresort.com. NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATION: A New Year’s Eve celebration Sugar Mountain style. The mountain will host a complimentary alpine torch light parade at 11:45 p.m. and a fireworks show at midnight. A fee, as well as reservations, for the indoor festivities from 9:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. are required and can be made by calling (828) 898-4521 ext. 261.
JAN. 5 WINTERFEST BEER FESTIVAL: Come celebrate winter indoors with an array of beers and good music at the 2019 WinterFest Beer Festival. Enjoy over 40 varieties of regional brews and ciders, and The Beech Mountain Brewing Company Taproom and Grill will offer a selection of Americana food to compliment your brews. The festival features live music on the main stage from The Broadcast and Shelby Rae Moore. Commemorate the event with a free photo booth from Boone Photo Booth. This event benefits OVAAT (One Vet At A Time). OVAAT is dedicated to delivering the tools need-
FILE PHOTO Blowing Rock celebrates its 21st annual WinterFest from Jan. 24 to 27.
ed for our service members’ integration back into society and thereafter. For more info, call 828-387-2011 or visit beechmountainresort.com.
ments and good company take place at noon in the Last Run Lounge.
JAN. 6
WINTERFEST: Blowing Rock celebrates its 21st annual WinterFest from Jan. 24 to 27. Events include the Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake, WinterFeast, WinterPaws Dog Show, WinterFashion Show, ice carving, Lil Miss WinterFest, Winter Beer Garden and more. Most events are free, some require tickets. For more information, visit www.blowingrockwinterfest.com.
WINTER TRAILS DAY: Sugar Mountain’s 24rd Annual National Winter Trails Day event offers children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing for free. Discover the fun and fitness of snow sports. Guided tours are available on the hour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The program includes a 45-minute tour and snowshoe rental. Adult tours are for those who are 12 years or older. Children’s tours are for those ages eight to 11. Sign up at least 15 minutes prior to your tour time at the ski/snowboard school. For more info, visit www.skisugar.com.
JAN. 8 SEPTUAGENARIAN PARTY: Sugar Mountain will host its annual Septugenarian party on Jan. 8 to recognize the resort’s “Senior Citizen Skiers.” Favors, refresh-
JAN. 25-28
FEB. 1 GIRL SCOUT COOKIE & BEER PAIRING: On Feb. 1 from 6 to 10 p.m., enjoy a flight of four Beech Mountain Brewing Company beers paired with everyone’s favorite cookie provider, The Girl Scouts of America. The cookie and flight pairing are optional and served on a first come, first serve basis for $10 per person. The Beech Mountain Brewing Company has a full bar and food options for everyone to enjoy. Live
music by Dr. Bacon will start at 7 p.m. For more info, call 828-387-2011 or visit beechmountainresort.com.
FEB. 2 WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD CAMP: Beyond the Boundaries Women’s Snowboard Camp at Beech Mountain takes place Feb. 2-3. The two-day freestyle park camp is for women ages 18 and up. Learn new tricks, snowboard with like-minded ladies, and enjoy a ladies’ weekend on the slopes! Pro coaches, private progression park, goodie bag, yoga, lunch, apres and more. For more info, call 828-387-2011 or visit beechmountainresort.com.
FEB. 13 HERBIE HANCOCK: The legendary Herbie Hancock performs at Appalachian State’s Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. Now in the sixth decade of his professional life, Herbie Hancock remains where he has always been: at the forefront of SEE CALENDAR ON PAGE 105
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an evening of jazz by Todd Wright and friends at 8 p.m. on Feb. 14 at Appalachian State’s Rosen Concert Hall.
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world culture, technology, business and music. In addition to his status as a legendary pianist and composer, Hancock has been an integral part of every popular music movement since the 1960s. As a member of the Miles Davis Quintet that pioneered a groundbreaking sound in jazz, he also developed new approaches on his own recordings, followed by his work in the 70s — with record-breaking albums such as “Headhunters” — combining electric jazz with funk and rock in an innovative style that continues to influence contemporary music. “Rockit” and “Future Shock” marked Hancock’s foray into electronic dance sounds; during the same period he also continued to work in an acoustic setting with V.S.O.P., which included ex-Miles Davis bandmates Wayne Shorter, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams. In honor of his work, Hancock was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in February 2016. For info, call 800-8412787 or visit theschaefercenter.org.
FEB. 14 TODD WRIGHT’S VALENTINE EVENING: Enjoy
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FEB. 19 HARLEM DANCE THEATRE: The Dance Theatre of Harlem performs at 7 p.m. Feb. 19. The Dance Theatre of Harlem was co-founded in 1969 by then-New York City Ballet’s first African-American principal dancer, Arthur Mitchell, and his colleague and acclaimed ballet instructor, Karel Shook. Moved to action by the assassination of civil rights leader Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., they sought to establish a center for excellence in classical dance instruction for the young people in Mitchell’s childhood neighborhood of Harlem. From these modest beginnings, Dance Theatre of Harlem rapidly grew to become a national and international cultural ambassador for American dance. For info, call 800841-2787 or visit theschaefercenter.org.
FEB. 21-24 RETRO 80S WEEKEND: Each February, the town of Beech Mountain and Beech SEE CALENDAR ON PAGE 108
Visit us year round 8:30am to 5:30pm ◆ Mon. - Sat ashecountycheese.com 106 E. Main St. West Jefferson NC | 336-246-2501
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See where to:
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live the adventure
EAT SHOP PLAY STAY in the High Country
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Mountain Interiors & Furniture
It’s more than furniture, it’s a lifestyle. West Jefferson, NC • 336.246.5647 Boone, NC • 828.266.1401 (New Location Boone Mall)
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Mountain Resort come together to create a righteously rad celebration of all things ‘80s. The eighth annual Retro ’80s Weekend takes place Feb. 21-24, with live ’80s music nightly, retro skiing daily and plenty of throwback activities in between. Hop in our “ski slope time machine” to revisit the New Wave era of big hair, leg warmers and Members Only jackets. This year’s lineup of events is looking to be totally radical. For more info, call 828-387-2011 or visit beechmountainresort.com.
FEB. 23 BANKED SLALOM: Sharpen your edges and wax your skis or snowboards. The Beech Mountain Banked Slalom is North Carolina’s ultimate test of speed and skill on the snow will return to Beech for the sixth year in a row. Racers will shred berms, hips, slash walls and doubles to catch some air. For more info, call 828-387-2011 or visit beechmountainresort.com.
MARCH 10 SUGAR CUP COMPETITION: Sugar Mountain
red chili pepper
white peppercorn
hosts a giant slalom competition for participants with an intermediate or above ability level on March 10. One-hundred percent of the entry fees go to the American Cancer Society in memory of Sugar Mountain’s former director of operations, Richard T. Trundy. For more info, visit www.skisugar.com. SUGAR BEAR CELEBRATION: Join Sugar Mountain Resort’s resident mascot, Sugar Bear, and his friends for a fun birthday celebration on March 10. Activities include the Great Bear Race, special treats, cake and ice cream. For additional details, contact the Sugar Bear/Polar Bear ski & snowboard school. For more info, visit www.skisugar.com. EASTER EGG HUNT: Dress up in your Easter costume and join Sugar Bear and Sweetie Bear on the slopes in search of prize-filled eggs. You may be the lucky winner of a 2018-19 season pass hidden in the grand prize egg. Or be one of three contestants awarded a prize for most creative, imaginative and colorful costume. Valid lift/slope tickets or passes are required for participation. Event is only for children ages 12 and younger. Participants should meet at the bottom of the Lower Flying Mile slope at 8:45 a.m.
black peppercorn
tumeric
green peppercorn
black mustard seeds
dried tomato
green cardamom
sumac
dried ginger
ground nutmeg
nutmeg
cassia
pink pepper
cumin seeds
poppy seeds
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Like Family for 59 Years!
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Red Onion
Dine in the cool mountain air, rain or shine, on our covered outdoor patio! 227 Hardin Street, Boone, NC 28607
828.264.5470
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20 Drafts Import & Micro Brews
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HOURS:
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Home of the Famous Bagelicious
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Winter Sunrise
PHOTO COURTESY GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION From its rime-ice covered peaks, Grandfather Mountain offers unparalleled views during wintertime, as well as an exhilarating sense of wonder.
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2018
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AD INDEX ANIMAL EMERGENCY CLINIC OF THE HIGH COUNTRY ............. 77 ANTIQUES ON HOWARD............................................................ 52 APPALACHIAN ANTIQUE MALL................................................. 52 ASHE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.............................................. 63 ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL ................................................. 63 ASHE COUNTY CHEESE........................................................... 105 ASHE COUNTY HISTORICAL ...................................................... 63 BANNER ELK OLIVE OIL ............................................................ 54 BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT ...................................................... 37 BLACKBERRY CREEK MATTRESS COMPANY .................... 48, 92 BLOWING ROCK ART/HISTORY MUSEUM .............................. 101 BLOWING ROCK ATTRACTION ................................................ 105 BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ............................ 78 BLOWING ROCK ESTATE JEWELRY .......................................... 51 BLOWING ROCK FURNITURE GALLERY .................................... 10 BOONE BAGELRY ............................................................. 52, 111 BOONE DRUGS INC ..................................................................... 7 BRASS EXCHANGE, THE ........................................................... 25 BRUSHY MOUNTAIN POWERSPORTS .......................... 9, 73, 100 BUDGET BLINDS ....................................................................... 63 CARDINAL, THE ...................................................................... 110 CARLTON GALLERY................................................................... 73 CASA RUSTICA OF BOONE INC ............................................... 109 CENTURY ....................................................................... 21 58, 59 CHA DA THAI ............................................................................ 52 CHETOLA RESORT AT BLOWING ROCK..................................... 94 CLASSIC STONE WORKS .......................................................... 23 COBO ........................................................................................ 52 CORRIHER TRACTOR INC DBA BOB CAT OF LENOIR ................ 93 CROSSNORE ............................................................................. 72 Winter is a great time to visit nature in the High Country. CUMBERLAND MARKETING.................................................... 106 DANIEL BOONE INN ................................................................ 109 LINVILLE FALLS MOUNTAIN CLUB...................................... 38, 39 DEWOOLFSON DOWN ......................................................... 31, 48 LOST PROVINCE ....................................................................... 52 DIANNE DAVANT ................................................................. 26, 48 LUCKY PENNY........................................................................... 52 DOE RIDGE POTTERY ................................................................ 52 MAST FARM INN....................................................................... 57 DUTCH CREEK TRAILS .............................................................. 57 MAST GENERAL STORE ........................................................ 2, 57 ECHOTA ..................................................................48, 64, 65, 116 MOUNTAIN BLUE GALLERY....................................................... 54 EDGE OF THE WORLD ............................................................... 45 MOUNTAIN HOME AND HEARTH INC ........................................ 79 ERICKS CHEESE & WINE......................................................... 100 MOUNTAIN SIDE LODGE ........................................................... 57 FAMILY BILLIARDS ........................................................... 48, 110 MY BEST FRIENDS BARKERY ................................................... 54 FARMERS RENTALS & POWER ................................................. 91 MYSTERY HILL.......................................................................... 24 FOSCOE REALTY RENTALS ..................................................... 115 NEW LIFESTYLES CARPET ONE .............................................. 101 FREDS GENERAL MERCANTILE ................................................ 47 NEW RIVER BUILDING .............................................................. 86 GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN ....................................................... 23 OVER YONDER .......................................................................... 57 GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN CAMPGROUND .............................. 71 PARAMOUNT MOTORS............................................................ 114 GRANDFATHER VINEYARD ........................................................ 48 PARKER TIE .............................................................................. 63 GREEN PARK INN ...................................................................... 12 PEDALIN PIG ........................................................................... 111 HAWKSNEST ............................................................................. 44 PERRY’S GOLD MINE ................................................................ 69 HOLIDAY INN............................................................................. 63 PROPER ............................................................................ 52, 112 INCREDIBLE TOY COMPANY ..................................................... 51 RAM’S RACK ............................................................................ 53 JENKINS REALTORS ................................................................. 17 RECESS..................................................................................... 23 KEVIN WALKER CONSTRUCTION .............................................. 11 RED ONION CAFE .................................................................... 109 KINCAID/BERNHARDT FURNITURE OUTLETS ............................. 3 REMAX REALTY GROUP .............................................................. 9 LEATHERWOOD MOUNTAINS .................................................... 66 RIVERCROSS .................................................................... 57, 107 LEES MCRAE COLLEGE, SEASONAL ......................................... 87 SHOPPES AT FARMERS HARDWARE ........................................ 52
FILE PHOTO
SIX PENCE PUB....................................................................... 110 SKYLINE TELEPHONE CORP ..................................................... 71 SPICE AND TEA EXCHANGE.............................................. 51, 108 STONEWALLS ................................................................... 54, 108 STORIE STREET GRILLE.......................................................... 112 SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT...................................................... 40 SUGARTOP RESORT ................................................................ 101 TAPP ROOM ............................................................................ 111 TATUM GALLERIES ................................................................... 48 TAYLOR HOUSE INN .................................................................. 57 THE ART CELLAR ...................................................................... 30 THE CABIN STORE .................................................................. 107 THE GAMEKEEPER RESTAURANT ..................................... 12, 108 THE PET PLACE ........................................................................ 76 THE VILLAGE OF BANNER ELK ................................................. 54 THE WOODLANDS BBQ ........................................................... 110 TOWN OF SEVEN DEVILS .......................................................... 80 TOWN TAVERN ........................................................................ 111 TWEETSIE RAILROAD ............................................................... 87 VALLE CRUCIS CONFERENCE CENTER ..................................... 57 VANDERPOOL CAMPGROUND ................................................. 103 VILLAGE JEWELERS ................................................................. 53 WESTGLOW RESORT ................................................................ 16
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MOUNTAIN
LIVING