Winter Times 2020-21 by Mountain Times Publications

Embrace all seasons.

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WINTER TIMES 2020

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Numbers of Note .................................................................... 6 Ask High Country Host .......................................................... 6 Shop Small in the High Country .......................................... 8 Towns .................................................................................... 12 Appalachian Ski Mtn. .......................................................... 22 Beech Mountain Resort ....................................................... 24 Sugar Mountain Resort ....................................................... 28 Winter Wonder ..................................................................... 30 Bundle Up for Winter Fun .................................................... 32 Snowboarding in the High Country ................................... 34 Hawksnest ............................................................................ 36 Take to the Slopes on a Tube ............................................... 38 Snowshoeing ........................................................................ 39 Safe Sledding in Beech Mountain ...................................... 40 Winter Driving in High Country .......................................... 44 Winter Hiking ....................................................................... 46 Fly Fishing ............................................................................ 50 Winter Times on the Blue Ridge Parkway .......................... 65 Mystery Hill .......................................................................... 74 Christmas at Tweetsie .......................................................... 76 Grandfather Mountain ........................................................ 78 Blowing Rock Winterfest ..................................................... 80 Local Christmas Light Displays ........................................... 80 Roy Krege ‘Mr. Wooly Worm’ ............................................... 83 High Country Holiday Highlights ....................................... 88 High Country Theaters ........................................................ 92 Appalachian Theatre ........................................................... 98 ASU Winter Theater Season .............................................. 102 Art Galleries ....................................................................... 103 Famous Frescoes in the High Country .............................. 107 Area Museums .................................................................... 110 Cold Beer for the Cold Winter ........................................... 114 Wines for the Winter .......................................................... 118 High Country Spa Experience ........................................... 121 High Country Gifts and Giving .......................................... 122 Local Choose and Cut ........................................................ 125 General Stores .................................................................... 128 Old Fashioned Candy ......................................................... 130 Restaurants ........................................................................ 132 Advertisers Index ............................................................... 137

WINTER TIMES 2020

2020 Winter Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. PUBLISHER Tom Mayer EDITOR Johnny Hayes PRODUCTION CHIEF Rob Moore

WELCOME

to your High Country Winter

elcome to winter in the High Country and Winter Times, your guide to the attractions, places and events that make this area of Western North Carolina a special time of the year. While most of the attractions listed in these pages are open for business, the global pandemic has altered hours or even canceled some events.

LAYOUT ARTIST Jeff Winebarger CIRCULATION MANAGER Luke Barber, Tom Mayer, Anna Oakes,

Where possible we list such qualifiers, but like the weather on top of Grandfather Mountain, things can change quickly. Checking with the venue you plan to attend and visiting www.highcountrync.com — the website companion to this magazine — can help make your stay a smooth one. Enjoy your time in the High Country. We’re glad you’re here.

Bailey Little, Andrew Cole, Jamie Shell, Kayla Lasure, Ian Taylor and Derek Halsey WRITERS Mark Mitchell, Teresa Laws, Austin Fowler, Tim Walker, John Goheen, Nathan Godwin and Henry Volk SALES Photo by Rob Moore Western Watauga County (MTNSnapshots.com)

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Numbers of Note WATAUGA COUNTY

Watauga County Sheriff’s Office (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police Department (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State University Police (828) 262-8000

ASHE COUNTY

Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5600

Jefferson Police Department (336) 846-5529 West Jefferson Police Department (336) 246-9410

AVERY COUNTY

Avery County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071 ext. 1208 Banner Elk Police Department (828) 898-4300 Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573 Newland Police Department (828) 733-2023 Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760

Sugar Mountain Police Department (828) 898-4349 Beech Mountain Police Department (828) 387-2342

Blowing Rock Medical Park (828) 295-3116

ANIMAL CONTROL

HEALTH CARE

Watauga Medical Center (828) 262-4100 Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000 Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101 FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146

Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672 Watauga Humane Society (828) 264-7865 Animal Emergency & Pet Care Clinic of the High Country (828) 268-2833 Ashe County Animal Control (336) 982-4060 Avery County Humane Society (828) 733-9265

Questions about weather conditions, where to go, where to stay? Ask High Country Host. BY ANNA OAKES

T PHOTO SUBMITTED North Carolina High Country Host operates the Official Regional Welcome Center located on Hwy. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock, within view of N.C. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost Exit 291. 6

he rolling peaks and valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountains are what make the High Country area so scenic, and they also make for plenty of winding, curvy, twolane roads, making a road trip a destination in itself. But that means those two destinations you see on a map may not be as “close together” as you would imagine, and travel time takes longer than it would in flatter areas off the mountain. That’s where a stop or call to the High Country Host regional welcome center comes in

— they can help you plan your day trips so that you’re not spending big chunks of your vacation in the car. “People don’t realize that in the mountains, (destinations are) farther apart than in the city,” said Candice Cook, executive marketing director for High Country Host. North Carolina High Country Host operates the Official Regional Welcome Center located between Boone and Blowing Rock, within view of N.C. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost Exit 291. The Welcome Center provides maps, brochures, coupons, upcoming event handouts and travel counselor support,

as well as clean public restrooms and an area to walk your pets. The center is housed (but not affiliated with) as part of Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s visitor kiosk. For 40 years, High Country Host has represented destinations in five counties, including the towns of Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, West Jefferson, Wilkesboro and Sparta. High Country Host offers insider information and updates that many visitors won’t find anywhere else. In addition to helping you plan your day trips with travel time SEE HOST ON PAGE 8

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Shop small in the High Country

closed for long periods of time. Some had to close their doors forever while others are beginning to recover with the support of their clientele. Honeycutt said although it may be easier and more instantaneous to order items online, doing so does not help “your neighbor.” Small town businesses offer quaint, original gift ideas which help stores stay open and keep workers employed. Items available at these stores are

original and not mass produced, which adds to their appeal. “Now more than ever, it is more important to shop small and shop local as we rebound from the COVID-19 impact,” Honeycutt said. Some popular destinations to find unique and locally sourced food and beverage products in Ashe County are Ashe County Cheese, The Honey Hole, The Spice & Tea Exchange of West Jefferson and West Jefferson Specialty Foods. In Blowing Rock there is The Blowing Rock Market, The Spice & Tea Exchange of Blowing Rock and Marmalade. The town of Boone is home to J & M Produce and General Store & Grill, Art of Oil and Jerky Outpost. A popular destination in Avery County is Erick’s Cheese & Wine Shop.

There is no shortage of stores offering home decor, clothing and odds and ends in the High Country. Some favorites for shoppers in Ashe County include Third Day Market’s two locations, Sisters on Main and Twin Creeks Antiques and Southern Market. According to Kaitlin Carpenter, who is manager at Third Day Market, the downtown location offers fair trade items to help support women in struggling communities worldwide. Unique gift offerings available at TDM for men are candles with scents of dirt, fresh cut grass and money. Carpenter added that this holiday season they are offering 25 percent off on faux trees, wreaths and garland. In the town of Blowing Rock there is Monkee’s of Blowing Rock, Cabin Fever and Christmas in Blowing Rock. Popular destinations for clothing and home goods in Boone are Final Touches, The Shoppes at Farmers and Doe Ridge Pottery. Avery County is home to unique offerings such as Skyline Emporium LLC, Rustik by Underwood and The Dande Lion, Inc. Whether you are shopping for yourself or someone else, the local businesses of the High Country have something for everyone that may not be found anywhere else.

the Blue Ridge Parkway, and weatherrelated closures of state parks and attractions, Cook says. “We also have up-to-date info on what events will be happening over the holidays and winter due to COVID-19 cancellations and new procedures,” she said. “We also have warm winter weather activity handouts for those that come to ski, but conditions are not favorable.” With the potential for COVID-19 to continue impacting operations at parks and tourism businesses, as well as the peace of mind of area visitors, the visi-

tor center’s services are more useful than ever. The center will keep updated lists of which businesses and events are open and canceled, or are operating at reduced capacity. High Country Host is also working to provide information about what area attractions and hotels are doing to keep people safe. At the center itself, the staff are taking extra precautions. Hand sanitizing stations are provided and restrooms will be rotated and cleaned every hour. More materials will be provided in outdoor take-home boxes. And if visitors

do not feel comfortable entering the visitor center, they can call and staff will bring materials out to visitors’ vehicles. “We welcome people back to the High Country, and we look forward to seeing our returning visitors,” Cook said. The High Country Host Official Regional Welcome Center is located at 6370 U.S. Highway 321 South in Blowing Rock, N.C. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (828) 264-1299 or (800) 438-7500 or visit highcountryhost.com.

BY BAILEY LITTLE

n addition to its captivating views, the High Country offers a smalltown experience like no other, and that’s due to local businesses. The wide variety of merchandise available in locally owned stores in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties provide a unique shopping experience to interest any shopper. Chambers of commerce and business associations in the High Country always strive to encourage both residents and visitors to shop small. One event that is popular each year during the month of November is Small Business Saturday. This is a national shopping holiday that is held the Saturday after Thanksgiving as an effort to bring more holiday shopping to small businesses. It was first observed on Nov. 27, 2010, and was originally sponsored by credit card company, American Express and has since gained nationwide momentum. In the town of West Jefferson, the holiday holds a lot of meaning and is highly celebrated. Ashe County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kitty Honeycutt encourages shoppers, this year more than ever, to shop local. As a result of COVID-19 regulations, many small businesses had to remain

HOST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

in mind, High Country Host can advise on which hotels and lodging facilities have vacancies. “On busy weekends, we call around and see what’s available,” said Cook. The visitor center staff can also advise on group size limits at various establishments and whether you can walk in the day of your visit or need to book several days in advance, Cook said. Frequent visitor questions in the winter are about weather conditions, 8

GUIDES TO AREA SHOPPING Ashe County www.ashechamber.com www.westjeffersonbusiness.com/ member-directory Avery County www.averycounty.com www.business.averycounty.com/list Watauga County www.downtownboonenc.com/directory/ www.blowingrock.com/shopping/

PHOTO SUBMITTED Third Day Market has two locations in Ashe County and is a family-owned full service garden center, nursery, home decor and gift shop.

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TOWNS WATAUGA COUNTY BOONE

No matter what 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 from 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 make up the University of North Carolina system and draws more than 20,000 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 “Appuh-latch-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 legal offices and a diversity of restaurants to suit almost any taste. 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. 12

FILE PHOTO A past December’s First Friday Celebration in downtown Boone is filled with Christmas spirit and preparation for the holidays.

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 showcases the town’s namesake and the Native American legend that surrounds it. The trails surrounding Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake offer a scenic stroll. There’s also the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum in downtown, where you can experience art and

discover history. The museum features year-round exhibits, cultural programs, art workshops, lectures and more. The picturesque town of Blowing Rock is the perfect place to have an active summer 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, restaurants, 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 “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, sports fields and live music during the summer. Dining highlights include Over Yonder and The Ham Shoppe, which boasts some of the best sandwiches in the High Country. For more information, visit www. vallecrucis.com.

TODD

Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 13

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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 in the world that flows north. The Todd General Store was an old-fashioned mercantile that dated back to 1914 and was built in anticipation of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad. Todd was the last stop of the route and got much of its supplies from the train. The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods, while also hosting monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The evercrafty Elkland Art Center, known for its colorful parades and environmentally conscious puppet shows, offers summer workshops and programs for those with a flair for creativity. The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking to excellent fishing. 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. Shopping includes mementos and more at Bear Creek Traders, treats, snacks and other tail-wagging goodies for your furry friends at Mountain Dog & Friends and the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Down. 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 WINTER TIMES 2020

Country Retreat Family Billiards. Foscoe’s also home to one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic profile 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 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 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.hawksnestzipline. com) is year-round ziplining. For more information and events at Seven Devils, visit www.sevendevils.net.

AVERY COUNTY BANNER ELK

The mountain valley town of Banner SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 14

TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

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 galleries and artisans. Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk each year 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.

BEECH MOUNTAIN

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, 14

FILE PHOTO Jitendra, Shilpa and Aadhya Ratnakar of Morrisville take a hayride around Blowing Rock during the 2019 WinterFest.

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. 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 afterhours scene. There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain. The mountain is so large 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. 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, telephones, 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 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 SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 15

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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 WINTER TIMES 2020

camping opportunities.

NEWLAND

The highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913 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 SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 18

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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 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 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. 18

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.

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, 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 aweaspiring fresco painting by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopalian 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 summer sets in and fall colors begin to explode.

GRASSY CREEK

Just south of the North CarolinaVirginia 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 SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 19

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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, Va., or Mountain City, Tenn. The town has one stoplight, and several businesses line the street. Homecooked 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 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, Pa. 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. Former 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 SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 20

Award-Winning Luxury Interior Designer Opens New Design Studio in Downtown West Jefferson

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“I’m excited to become an entrepreneur and look forward to using my 30 years of experience to help my clients realize their dreams,” says Lauren Brown, the founder of the company. Lauren has recently been a featured guest on the Nationally Recognized Design Podcast, The Wingnut Social, featured guest on Boone Chamber Podcast Series “Mind Your Business”, Jefferson local Radio Station WKSK, and Casart Wall Coverings featured Blog Post “Expert Stay at home Interior Design Advice from A Designers Touch by Lauren”. Inspired by her time living in Japan, her trademark designs aim to create a tranquil environment that incorporates elements of nature through color, water features and artwork. Brown began her career providing design services nationally and internationally for major retailers in High Point and Hickory North Carolina. She was consistently recognized by the President of Thomasville Furniture as the runner up for top designer of 350 in the Corporate Stores nationally. The District Manager of Thomasville selected her to mentor other designers on the importance of being authentic, approachable and designing with passion. The American Consulate to the Saudi Arabian Government sent a letter of appreciation and commended her for three villas she designed for the Sheik of Bahrain and the excellent service she provided the Sheik and his wife. Her work has been featured in The Charlotte Observer,

Architectural Digest, and Boca Raton Magazine, and has been in the “Million Dollar Club” for twenty -seven years Brown says her greatest joy is the relationships she has developed with her clients. “I like to work in a very collaborative way with my clients, using my skills, experience, and passion for designing to allow them to realize their vision and dream.” “I’ve been blessed to do what I love and I feel it’s important to “Pay It Forward” both Personally and Professionally. For the Month of January I will offer A ONE HOUR DESIGN CONSULTATION FREE as my way of giving back to my Community, The High Country of North Carolina. Speaking of Community, it has been wonderful to see how giving and loving and compassionate we’ve become. Let us never forget how kindness changes lives during the valleys and the mountaintops! I would love to assist you with your Dream Home to create the Stunning, Inviting, Peaceful Retreat you so desire. A Designers Touch by Lauren is a fullservice interior design firm offering Concept to Completion Design/New Home Construction, Luxury Designer for the Day bringing Clients to The Hickory Furniture Mart, Design to Sell Home Staging with services including 3D virtual tours, 360 Video & Photos provided by one of my Trade Partners, Premier Images, as well as Color Consulting and Ala Carte Services. For more information Lauren’s website is adesignerstouchbylauren.com Follow her on Social Media: Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

336-688-0358 adesignerstouchbylauren@gmail.com 19

TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

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 20

FILE PHOTO It was a past winter wonderland in West Jefferson, with birds resting on tree branches covered in snow.

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 year-round 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.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Christmas tree farms produce a local beauty when the snow falls and add to the holiday spirit. WINTER TIMES 2020

WINTER TIMES 2020

APPALACHIAN SKI MTN.

Providing family fun in a ‘winter wonderland’ BY BAILEY LITTLE

or more than 50 years, locals and visitors of the High Country have ventured to the area of Appalachian Ski Mtn. seeking snow-filled fun. Appalachian Ski Mtn. was the first ski area in Northwestern North Carolina and is the second oldest in the state, according to www. appskimtn.com. ASM is widely known for its snowmaking technologies. The development of machinemade snowmaking technology in the 1950s generated an increase in ski area development in the United States. ASM now has the greatest snowmaking pump capacity per acre of any ski resort in the Southeast region. This is a result of its investment of more than $2 million in snowmaking automation, snow guns, pumping capacity and increased water storage capacity. Located on-site at the resort is the French Swiss Ski College, where those who want to develop their skills on the slopes can receive professional instruction. Since 1969, App Ski’s French Swiss Ski College has taught more than 1 million skiers and snowboarders. Lessons offered through the Ski College include group lessons, private lessons and ultimate private lessons. Listed prices for the French Swiss Ski College are $20 for one hour group lessons and $60 for three one hour group lessons. Children’s classes are also offered for younger skiers and snowboarders to develop skills and enjoy their time on the mountain. Ski Wee and Cruiser Camp programs are taught on beginner terrain for skiers ages 4-10 and snowboarders ages 7-12. The packages include a slope ticket, equip22

PHOTO BY RIC WILKINSON Snowboarders of all ages can test their skills or enroll in various classes under the guidance of professionals at Appalachian Ski Mtn.

ment rental, helmet rental and group instruction. Those interested in registering can do so at the French-Swiss Ski College counter, located in the lower level of the lodge. The classes have limited availability with reservations suggested. Call the French Swiss Ski College at (828) 295-9311 to reserve a spot. There are a dozen slopes for skiers of all ages and abilities to enjoy during a trip to ASM. The resort’s longest run, measuring at half a mile, is Orchard Run. ASM Marketing Director Drew Stanley shared details about how COVID-19 will affect this year’s season. The resort has installed several plexiglass

protective screens to keep people safe while in The Lodge. Face coverings are required in all indoor spaces, with no exceptions, for guests ages 2 and older. They are also required outside in life lines, on chairlifts, during lessons and at the ice arena. Masks must cover the nose and mouth at all times in these situations and face coverings are expected to be worn on the property when not distanced six feet or more apart from others. Stanley said the resort also added outdoor seating for as many as 400 guests in select areas around the lodge for people to remain distanced while eating or enjoying time outdoors. According to Stanley, ASM will host Midnight Blast weekends this season. There will also be Sunday half-night specials on the first Sunday of each month, which is a $12 ticket. He added that traditional fireworks shows on President’s Day and New Year’s Eve are scheduled to take place. Reservations are required at this time for the skiing public and can be completed online via the website. This all-new online reservations platform will not only be used for recreational activities and gear rental, but also for childcare and parking. According to Stanley, ASM is also building a new gatehouse to assist with the traffic flow of visitors coming to the resort. Other areas ASM continues to expound upon is their snowmaking system and custom terrain park features for riders to enjoy. “We feel really good that we can offer a pretty memorable and safe experience for skiers and snowboarders,” Stanley said about this year’s season.

IMPORTANT LINKS Here are some important links to refer to when planning a visit or stay at Appalachian Ski Mountain. COVID-19 operations plan for 2020-21 Season: www.appskimtn.com/ news/2020-21-seasonupdate Upcoming Events: www.appskimtn.com/asmright-now/event-schedule Ski ticket/pricing information: www.appskimtn.com/ rates-memberships/skitickets Ice skating ticket/pricing information: www.appskimtn.com/onthe-mountain/ice-skating Flex ticket information/ rates: www.appskimtn.com/ rates-memberships/flex-ticket Season membership information/pricing: www.appskimtn.com/ rates-memberships/seasonmemberships Lodging: www.appskimtn.com/planyour-trip/slopeside-lodging First timer’s guide: www.appskimtn.com/ learn-to-ski/first-timersguide French Swiss Ski College: www.appskimtn.com/ learn-to-ski/french-swissski-college Children’s programs: www.appskimtn.com/ learn-to-ski/childrensprograms Midnight Blast: www.appskimtn.com/onthe-mountain/midnight-blast Trail Map: www.appskimtn.com/ about-us/trail-map

WINTER TIMES 2020

Locally owned and operated for over 35 years in the High Country

WINTER TIMES 2020

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAM DEAN | BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Chills and thrills can be found at Beech Mountain Resort.

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Lifts: 3 Quad Chair Lifts 3 Double Chair Lifts 1 Magic Carpet 1 Rope Tow 8 Total Lifts

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAM DEAN | BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Beech Mountain Resort’s increased snow-making capacity will provide an enhanced experience for skiers and snowboarders alike.

Hitting the slopes BY LUKE BARBER

traddling the highlands of Avery and Watauga counties rests Beech Mountain Resort, one of the High Country’s preeminent skiing, snowboarding and winters sports destinations. Beech Mountain Resort features 17 slopes across 95 skiable acres that can be enjoyed

from the most adventurous and experienced skier to the beginner who is just learning to cut across the fresh snow. Beginners can get their skis wet on the three slopes built to accommodate those becoming accustomed to the sport, and training programs are available for both adults as well as children ages 3 to 14. Meanwhile, veteran skiers can unleash their inner Shaun White on four of the resort’s black

diamond slopes. The Beech Mountain experience also includes a terrain course that gives thrill seekers an X-Games-like challenge. The course is populated with railings, jumps, boxes and other features that skiers and snowboarders can launch from and use to show off their skills. SEE BEECH ON PAGE 25

Trails 3 Easiest 7 More Difficult 4 Most Difficult 2 Freestyle Terrain 17 Total trails Mountain Statistics: Acreage: 95 skiable acres Peak Elevation: 5,506 feet Base Elevation: 4,675 feet Vertical Rise: 830 feet Lift Capacity: 10,858 skiers per hour Snowmaking: 100 percent Slope Coverage Terrain Parks: One Ice skating: Yes Tubing: Yes Amenities: Four restaurants, two sport shops, full rental facility, wireless internet connection WINTER TIMES 2020

BEECH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

“The cool thing about our resort is that we can segment out the different ability types,” Resort Marketing Director Talia Freeman said. “Some people want to go into the terrain park and actually hit features and do tricks that are a lot more advanced. They have their own dedicated area, and we also have a nice learning area (that includes) an abundance of all-day learning programs for children and a lot of lesson options for adults as well.” With the additional offers of a snow tubing and ice skating, there are plenty of ways to keep the kids and the rest of your friends and family entertained this winter at SEE BEECH ON PAGE 26

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAM DEAN | BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Beech Mountain Resort’s terrain course offers skiers and snowboarders the opportunity to get extreme.

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BEECH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

Beech Mountain. New to the resort for the 2020-2021 winter season is the resort’s increased snow making capacity, which will provide an enhanced visitor experience for those who are hitting the slopes. The improvements, which were completed this past summer and involved the installation of a major new pump system, will allow the resort to move 4,000 gallons of water per minute, turning the local resource into fresh snow. “It’s a going to make a huge impact on our ability to cover the slopes in snow. It’s going to be a significant upgrade for us, and we’re really excited about that,” Freeman said. Bolstering the blast of snow are a handful of new, high-tech automated snow guns, or cannons, that will be added to the fleet to give the resort a total of 75 high-tech snow guns that will significantly produce more snow thanks to the

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAM DEAN | BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Beech Mountain Resort features activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and ice skating.

increased water supply. Additionally, the resort has removed a long-standing building next to the ice rink, allowing the resort to extend space for snow tubing runs. “I think in addition to our new slope lights and the new snow making, the on-hill experience will be a quality and polished experience,” Freeman said. The improvements will not only go a long way in providing the richest skiing and snowboarding experience for patrons

but also in adding to the unique culture present at the resort, which is heightened by the many events and activities that occur during the winter season. “One of the most important offerings we have is the culture here. People love it. We can cater to the families. We can cater to the craft beer lover. People can have a full experience on and off the snow. We got it all,” Freeman said. Beech Mountain resort hosts live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, competitions are held on the slopes, the annual ‘80s weekend is held later in the season and the resort is planning on holding its annual New Year’s Eve celebration this year as well. To receive notifications for event releases and information, click to beechmountainresort.com/events or follow Beech Mountain Resort on social media. Beech Mountain Resort is dedicated to keeping customers safe and healthy. Freeman said the resort has invested heavily in a sanitation system, has ensured that people have room to space out and that the resort encourages safe practices

across the board. The resort has even released an online rental system to allow customers to more efficiently and safely access equipment. Customers can access the digital platform at home, on their phones or at one of the numbers kiosks at the resort. The streamlined platform works seamlessly with the resorts online options for purchasing lift tickets and making reservations. “We’re committed to providing a healthy environment and safe experience for not only our customers and our staff but also for the community and the High Country as a whole. We’re going to be able to provide a safe experience this winter season,” Freeman said. Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604. For ticket prices, up-to-date conditions, group rates, lodging, directions, events, group and weeding booking and additional information, contact the resort by calling (828) 387-2011 or (800) 4382093, clicking to beechmountainresort. com or emailing info@skibeech.com.

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SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT The sweetest skiing destination in the High Country BY LUKE BARBER

ugar Mountain Resort is the place to be this winter. The largest snow sports destination in North Carolina, Sugar Mountain Resort offers an adventurous skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing and snowshoeing experience in the wintery hillsides of the Appalachian High Country. Sugar Mountain Resort’s thrill-inducing slopes scale to the skill level of all winter sports enthusiasts. From the beginner to the seasoned snow-shredder, Sugar Mountain Resort accommodates those ready to tear down the mountain. Lessons are also available for first-timers who would like to pick up some guidance before taking on the slopes. New at the mountain this year is an infrastructure overhaul that added an additional 3,000 feet of space during the summer, creating a roomy environment for patrons to enjoy. The improvement also doubled the selling stations for the equipment rental shop. Clothing rentals will now be on-site option, and the already spacious outdoor slope-side deck’s capacity has been increased by one third. Sugar Mountain Resort’s snow-making capacity has been enhanced as well, providing an improved experience for the those skiing, snowboarding and tubing down the mountain. The resort’s five new automated Snow Machines, snow-makers were installed on the lower mountain and have the ability to quickly deepen the snow base and spread out the snowpack from tree line to tree line. Those visiting Sugar Mountain should come prepared by dressing warmly in waterproof clothing in preparation for hitting the slopes. Snow goggles will be needed too to combat the effects of snow blindness, or the effect of the sunlight reflecting off of the 28

PHOTO COURTESY OF TODD BUSH | SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Sugar Mountain Resort is the ultimate family getaway destination.

snow. Sugar has options as well to satisfy hungry skiers after a long day of fun. Sugar boasts a large cafeteria, a snack bar and The Last Run Lounge, which are all onsite. Sugar Mountain Resort is ideal for individuals and families looking to take a day trip out to the snowy, sugary slopes, but for those looking to enjoy a weekend getaway, there is plenty of places to stay and exciting offerings around the village to keep the whole family occupied. In the wake of recent events, Sugar Mountain Resort is taking precautions to ensure the safety of its customers and patrons looking to make memories at the mountain. Along with implementing face coverings and encouraging patrons to respect social distancing, the resort is following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, state and local public health officials, the National

Ski Areas Association and the Ski Well, Be Well principals that the North Carolina Ski Areas Association’s Operating Best Practices created in response to the virus. Sugar Mountain Resort vice president Kim Jochl said she is excited for the winter ski season, which is the resort’s 51st. “We are looking forward to a fun, cold and snowy winter,” Jochl said. The ski season begins with a preseason ski clinic hosted by two-time Olympic Super G medalist, Andrew Weibrecht from Dec. 11-13. The clinic includes a three-day lift ticket, coaching fees, video analysis and a delicious Saturday night dinner. Daily participation is welcome. For more information, click to skisugar. com or call (828) 898-4521. Sugar Mountain Resort is located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive, Sugar Mountain, NC.

MORE INFORMATION SugarFest Dec. 11 - 13 A weekend of fun at Sugar Mountain Resort includes a weekend ski clinic conducted by olympian Andrew Weibrecht beginning at 8:30 a.m. during the three days, new equipment will be available for demo, after ski party and fireworks, Girls Go Shred snowboard camp, lodging specials and SugarFest, featuring food and drink to fill you up and enjoy! Hot Chocolate & Whipped Cream bar: Saturday & Sunday. Soup Safari: 11 a.m., Saturday. BBQ and Sweet Tea Lunch & Dinner: 11 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. New Years Eve Celebration: Dec. 31 The general public is invited free of charge to an alpine torch light parade at 11:45 p.m. and the fireworks show at midnight. A fee, as well as reservations for the indoor festivities from 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. featuring live music by The Rockabilly’s, are required and should be made by calling (828) 898-4521 ext. 261. Septuagenarian Benefits & Party: Jan. 5 Anyone 70 and older can qualify for complimentary skiing/riding at Sugar Mountain Resort. To obtain your complimentary skiing/riding privileges please visit Sugar Mountain Resort’s administration office, located on the second floor of the main lodge building and present a photo ID. You may also chose to receive a daily ticket at no charge, or a season pass for a processing fee of $20.

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Creating a culture of winter wonder BY LUKE BARBER

veryone knows that there is no place like home for the Holidays, but ski enthusiast know that there is no place like the High Country for winter sports. The High Country is home to three exciting skiing, boarding and winter actives destinations: Appalachian Ski Mtn., Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort. Each winter wonderland has recently improved its snow making capacity, providing an extra padding of soft, fluffy snow to tear through, as well as a more evenly spread out snow base. Ski season this year is set to begin once temperatures drop toward the end of November.

APPALACHIAN SKI MTN.

Originally known as Blowing Rock Ski Lodge, Appalachian Ski Mtn. began on Dec. 4, 1968 when Grady Moretz and four business partners purchased the lodge, which had been built six years earlier by M.E. Thalheimer of Selma, Ala., from the Northwestern Bank at foreclosure at a public option. When Appalachian Ski Mtn. opened its doors, it was the first ski area 30

FILE PHOTO Appalachian Ski Mtn. welcomes skiers of all ages and experience levels.

in Northwestern North Carolina and the second oldest ski area in the state. Cataloochee opened the previous winter. Upon opening, Appalachian Ski Mtn. featured a 12,000-square-foot base lodge and three slopes serviced by two rope towns and a T-bar. Today, the mountain boasts 12 ski slopes, which include two terrain parks. The slopes are serviced by two quad chairlifts, two conveyor lifts and one handle-pull lift. The base lodge now covers 46,000 square feet and features a restaurant, among other amenities. Those looking to hit the slopes at Appalachian Ski Mtn. can visit appskimtn.

com/rentals to purchase tickets and rent equipment online. Additionally, more than 20 kiosks to expedite the rental and payment process are available upon customers’ arrival to the lodge. Skis available for rental include shape skis for beginners, skimboards, high performance twin tips, Burton Learn to Rides for first time skiers and Burton Park Performance skis for those looking to really shred the hills.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

For more than 50 years, Sugar Mountain Resort has offered visitors a pristine sting destina-

tion surrounded by the beauty of the Appalachian mountains. The resort is owned and operated by Gunther Jochl, a native of Austria who grew up in the Alps. When Jochl took over the resort in the 1970s, the business was facing bankruptcy. During the years, Gunther and his wife, Kim, were able to turn the business around and shape into the successful winter skiing destination that is known as today. Sugar Mountain Resort was a driving force in spreading the culture and sport of skiing in the southern Appalachian highlands. As the resort looked to attract a customer base, it was

tasked with providing the education required to attract customers to the resort, which mostly involved training in the region to ski. A ski club in Atlanta even set up a hill covered in saw dust to practice skiing during warmer times of the year in preparing for trips to Sugar Mountain. Sugar Mountain Resort hosts more than 20 ski trails that accommodate every level of experience. But before you hit the slopes, be sure to check out skisugar.com/rentals to check out rental rates and help expedite the rental process once you arrive at the mountain. Equipment available for rent at the resort’s base lodge include 3,500 sets of HEAD shaped skis, more than 800 Burton, RIDE and HEAD snowboards and snowboard boots, more than 1,000 helmets and more than 300 full sets, including jackets and bibs, of clothing.

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT

Beech Mountain Resort has also surpassed its bi-centennial, having opened more than 50 years ago after debuting in the winter season of 1967-1968. Dr. Thomas Brigham, a dentist from Alabama who was an avid skier, partnered with local

developers Grover, Spencer and Harry Robbins to begin an ambitious project that would eventually become Beech Mountain Resort. On opening day, the new resort attracted more than 2,000 customers with lift tickets priced at $9 to ascend the 5,506 foot mountain. Today, Beech Mountain Resort features 17 ski runs across 95 skiable acres. The resort’s growth is attributable to the substantial infrastructure improvement projects that have been completed over the decades. One of the resort’s significant improvements is the 5506’ Skybar at the top of the mountain, which features a 2,800-squarefoot outdoor deck with Adirondack chairs, a heated glass roundhouse with a full bar and snack bar. John Costin remains as the resort’s current president. Equipment available to rent at Beech Mountain resort includes skis, snowboards, boots, bindings, helmets and poles. Single and multiple day pricing is available, as well as pricing for high performance equipment. The resort has recently revamped its rental and ticket purchasing process. To get ahead of the line, click to beechmountainresort.com/equipmentrentals.com. WINTER TIMES 2020

WINTER TIMES 2020

Bundle up for winter fun

BY BAILEY LITTLE

he High Country offers an exciting variety of outdoor recreational activities through its three ski resorts. Aside from buying or renting all necessary gear to hit the slopes, it is important to dress appropriately for fun in the snow. Several local shops in the towns of Boone, Foscoe and Banner Elk offer apparel and rent gear as well as shops at the local ski resorts. Recess Skate & Snow is a locally owned, rider-driven skateboard and snowboard shop. It is located at 1158 NC-105 in Boone and offers a great selection of products from the best quality skate and snow brands. Shoppers can find skateboards, snowboards, footwear, apparel, outerwear, accessories, snowboard rentals and more. Staff are highly knowledgeable and are dedicated to providing great customer service to those of all ages and levels of involvement. They will help guide shoppers to the right gear to best suit their individual needs for any winter adventure. J.P. Pardy, who owns Recess with his wife Ashley, provided some tips for staying warm while completing any activities at local ski resorts. He recommends investing in a good pair of wool socks versus cotton socks as they are moisture-wicking. He stressed the importance of beginning with a good base layer of clothing and adding additional layers as needed, depending on the temperature that day. It is also highly recommended to wear goggles and other protective face gear such as ski masks on days that the resort is making snow or it is snowing outside. According to Pardy, the shop offers inexpensive options for necessary apparel like insulated, water-resistant pants. This provides affordable choices for families visiting for short amounts of time who

PHOTO SUBMITTED Recess Skate & Snow located at 158 NC-105 in Boone offers a wide array of products ranging from clothing to protective gear and boards.

want to go tubing, snowboarding or skiing during their trip. Shoppers can find products within a variety of price ranges from starting tier brands to Gore-Tex waterproof level brands. Pardy said waterproof items go a long way when shopping for clothing to wear while participating in outdoor winter activities. It is important to bundle up and keep body temperatures up by investing in reliable, insulated and waterproof outerwear such as jackets and pants. “If the material you’re wearing isn’t very breathable, you can end up sweating and end up getting cold from that,” Pardy said. Some popular clothing brands appropriate for cold weather available at Recess include 686, Adidas Snowboarding, Airblaster, and Thirty Two. The store’s winter hours, while resorts are open, are Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. On select winter weekends, the store will be open on Friday from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. For more information about Recess Skate & Snow, available merchandise or to complete online orders, visit the website at www.recessrideshop.com. For additional questions about store items or hours of operation, call the shop at (828) 355-9013. WINTER TIMES 2020

WINTER TIMES 2020

SNOWBOARDING in the High Country

Prepare to hit the slopes BY LUKE BARBER

s temperatures drop, snowboarders across the country are preparing their equipment, tightening their bindings and putting on their snow goggles and heading to the High Country for what many expect to be a snowboarding season for the ages. As those current and future snowboard athletes begin to put on their best X Games impressions, many will stopping at Recess Skate & Snow in Boone to gear up before heading to the area’s three premier and highly-regarded winter sports destinations: Appalachian Ski Mtn., Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort. “We’re a year-round skateboard and snowboard shop,” Recess Skate & Snow owner J.P. Pardy said. “On the 34

PHOTO COURTESY OF J.P. PARDY | RECESS SNOW & SKATE The folks at Recess Skate & Snow in Boone are certainly no strangers to winter weather.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAM DEAN | BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Snowboarders can take off on Beech Mountain’s terrain park.

snowboard side of things, we do boards, bindings, gloves, goggles, the whole deal. We have full tuning services as well.” While the sport of snowboarding certainly attracts a younger crowd, these days you can find snowboarders of all ages tearing down the slopes. Instructors at the three major snowboarding destinations are more than happy to train up those newcomers who are looking for fun and excitement by streaming down the hillsides. For Pardy, it is almost an annual tradition to help mentor

those who come into his shop looking to make the most of their first snowboarding excursion. “We definitely like to engage with our customers and make sure they get the best experience up here. We hope people who come to are who ski and snowboard have a good time and come back. We ask them questions about where they’re staying and where they’re thinking about going. Depending on conditions and what they’re actually wanting to get out of their first experience. we then direct them to

which resort we think might suit them best,” Pardy said. Many factors can effect whether or not a snowboarding trip is successful, such as weather and the conditions on the mountain. However, equipment may be the most important that decides how a trip to the slopes will turn. Fortunately, there are many avid skiers and snowboarders across the High Country that will lend an ear to fellow thrill seekers. “Obviously, weatherwise we want to make

sure they have what they need. Maybe if (the resort) is having one of those big snow making days where the snow guns might be on you, you want to make sure you have goggles and face masks. Then if it’s going to be really cold, you need be prepared by wearing good base layers like socks, gloves. It’s pretty easy staying warm, it’s just about having the right stuff to do so with,” Pardy said. Avid skaters who rip around on concrete during the warmer times of the year will like find a familiar passion in snowboarding as well. Pardy, who is also an avid skater and snowboarder, says that are similarities between the two sports.

“I think it translates well,” Pardy said. “Doing both (skating and snowboarding) I definitely think it helps your muscle memory, balance and all that good stuff.” The local resorts are accessible to all skill levels. Slopes range in difficulty levels from the bunny slopes, which are generally for kids and beginners, to the black diamonds, which are make for more experienced snow boarders, as well as the winter time adrenaline junkies. Those looking to show off their snowboarding prowess can also find terrain parks at each resort, which offer snowboarders plenty of ways to get creative with their skillset. WINTER TIMES 2020

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HAWKSNEST

Slide into a winter adventure with snow tubing and zip lining BY ANDREW COLE

lide into a world of adventure this winter season at the Hawksnest, the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast. Located in the community of Seven Devils, the Hawksnest features a variety of terrain, with tubing runs for everyone from novice to experienced snow tubers. Becoming a top-tier tubing hot-spot didn’t happen overnight; the Hawksnest got its start as a ski-and-golf resort when it first opened to the public. It wasn’t until 2009 when the resort began offering snow tubing. Now, the park boasts more than dozens of lanes of tubing trails ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet. The facility also features two conveyor lifts which can ferry riders back to the top of the slopes, maximizing the number of downhill rides visitors can squeeze into a day. The scope of the park coupled with its selection of trails makes it perfect for adventurers from all walks of life and skill 36

PHOTO COURTESY OF HAWKSNEST TUBING PARK This young tuber looks ahead as she glides down a tube at Hawksnest Tubing Park.

levels. Visitors to Hawksnest should plan ahead. Potential tubers should dress in layers, a hat, gloves and goggles in order to remain warm, comfortable and safe throughout their visit. Hawksnest offers rental gear such as snow bibs for guest and also houses a gift shop stocked souvenir items. A session at the Hawknest is $33 for rides Monday through Friday and $42 on Saturday, Sunday and on holidays. Each session at Hawksnest is an hour and

45-minutes long and riders can be as young as 3 years old. Tickets are distributed on a firstcome, first-served basis, so it is recommended that individuals purchase their tickets beforehand. Currently, the Hawksnest lodge is closed to inside seating and food service. Only the firstfloor bathrooms will be accessible inside the lodge this season. Aside from snow tubing, Hawknests also offers zip lining tours for thrill seekers eager to experience the sensation of flight. An extension

of their summer zip line tour, the Snowbird zip line tour is offered during the winter months and features four cables that allow riders to experience a bird’s-eye view of the park. Riders must be at least 5 years old to participate and can not weigh more than 250 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches. The cost of a zip line tour is $40 per session, with each session being 45 minutes. Hawksnest is located at 2058 Skyland Drive, Seven Devils. Keep in mind, that many High Country at-

FILE PHOTO Zip lines are a popular attraction at Hawksnest not only in the summer months, but also through the winter season, with breathtaking views of snowcapped peaks along the ride.

tractions are experiencing changes due to COVID-19. Visitors should call (828) 963-6561 or visit the Hawksnest website at https://hawksnesttubing.com/ for the most up to date information

regarding events and health restrictions during this time. Hawksnest can also be found on Facebook at, https:// www.facebook.com/ Hawksnest-Snow-Tubing-147602491965937/. WINTER TIMES 2020

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Take to the slopes on a tube BY DEREK HALSEY

ubing is a winter sport that has been around since the onset of the automobile. Once car and truck tires evolved into having an inflated tube underneath the outer rubber tread, new uses for the devices were soon concocted by ingenuous Americans. It was soon discovered that rubber tire tubes not only slid nicely down a snowy hill, they also provided a bounce that make the trip fun and raucous. Outlaw tubing on various unofficial hillsides and mountainsides has proven to be adventurous yet perilous at times as tubes are not always easily controlled. A collision with a tree or rock wall or a large mound of thorn bushes can lead to trouble. So, for a fun yet safe tubing experience, many outlets here in the High Country provide excellent tubing on groomed courses free from danger. Two ski resorts in the High Country provide tubing opportunities. As with all winter sports, call ahead or check the websites of the resorts to get snow and weather conditions. Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive in Sugar Mountain, offers multiple tubing lanes that are 700 feet long. Utilizing a moving conveyor lift, each person can purchase 38

A group of excited tubers careen down one of Sugar Mountain’s 700-foot-long tubing lanes.

FILE PHOTO Hawksnest has offered individuals and families getaway opportunities for snow tubing down its slopes for more than a decade.

PHOTO BY SAM DEAN Beech Mountain Resort features a state-of-the-art snow tubing park that is lighted and open daily and nightly for visitors.

a tubing ticket that lasts one hour and 45 minutes. You must be 3 years old or older to go tubing, those 6 and youger must share a tube with an adult, those 7 and 8 must be supervised by an adult and all those 11 and younger must have a waiver signed. The tubing sessions go into the

always smart to call ahead for conditions. The resort has created a state of the art, 8-lane tubing station that is also 700 feet in length. Here, a rider must be 42 inches or taller to participate. The one hour and 45 minute sessions are booked from 10 a.m.

night with festival lighting guiding the way. More information can be found at skisugar.com. Beech Mountain Ski Resort is located at 1007 Beach Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain. Weather permitting; their tubing season is set to open on Nov. 21, although it is

until 6 p.m. and waivers can be signed digitally at the Beech Mountain Ski Resort website — beechmountainresort.com. The High Country also features two venues that focus on the sport of snow tubing only; places that cater to snow bumping exclusively.

Hawksnest Snow Tubing is located at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils. The tubing lanes at Hawksnest range from 400 to 1,000feet in length, spread over 30 different lanes in four sections. Multiple moving carpet lifts keep the fun moving fast. With its mountaintop views, Hawksnest is considered the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast. Tubers 3 years old and older can create a great winter experience until 8 p.m. While there, you can also check out and buy tickets for their ziplining service available in the warmer months. More information can be found at hawksnesttubing.com. Now in its 15th season, Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing attraction will be ready for fun as soon as the weather permits. No need to book ahead with Jonas Ridge, unless you have a group of 15 or more, just show up and get ready for instant good times in the less-crowded alternative to the bigger resorts. For snow tubers 3 years old and older, the venue’s snow-making machines will keep the lanes rocking in colder weather and the “magic carpet” moving lifts will keep the good times rolling. You can find Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing attraction at 9472 NC 181 South, Jonas Ridge. More information can be found at jonasridgesnowtube.com. WINTER TIMES 2020

SNOWSHOEING is great for footing it in the winter BY DEREK HALSEY

he history of snowshoeing is a fascinating look into human ingenuity, most likely based on noticing and watching what happens in nature. For people who lived in northern climates, dealing with heavy, thick snow was a part of life. To have to trudge on through the deep snow with their normal shoes was not fun and was cold and hard on the thighs. Nature, however, is full of examples of animals that have evolved and adapted to snowy conditions and that includes spread out feet and more. With humans, however, modern day technology can take forever to happen, even when it is right in front of us. Still, at some point between 6,000 and 8,000 years ago, a human noticed how a piece of flat wood landed on a pile of snow and got the idea to build shows with a flat base that could seemingly walk on top of the drifts. Once perfected, snow shoes became a needed tool when it came to experiencing everyday life during a high snow, especially if that meant having to travel. By most accounts, the origins of the snowWINTER TIMES 2020

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT If you can walk, you can snowshoe.

shoe can be traced to Central Asia about 6,000 to 8,000 years ago and was brought to the Americas over the Bering Strait as these tribes followed their brethren who previously made the trek. Early snowshoes were made with wood and sometimes tanned animal skin. Many have a stereotypical view of the more modern snowshoes that look like tennis rackets on your feet. But, just like all sports activities, snowshoes have evolved in interesting ways leading up to the modern day version. Now, snowshoes are made from various light

metals and other materials and cost from less than $100 to about $300. Compared to its rival sport, cross country skiing, snowshoeing is a cheaper endeavor and some say a more adaptable sport when it comes to walking in various snow conditions. Cross country skiing works best on tracks that have been smoothed in some ways, whereas snow shoeing can be experienced on myriad trail conditions. While it is basically true that if you can walk, you can snowshoe, there are some simple things that a newbie has to learn. Walking in a new kind of shoe

can require a transition as your feet are used to certain conditions. With snowshoes, you have to walk with a wider gait, spreading your legs just enough to make the hike a smooth one. Other simple maneuvers that need to be learned include simply getting up with snowshoes on, turning around with snowshoes on and learning how to walk on various slopes and inclines. Most folks who snowshoe also utilize hiking sticks, which help to keep things balanced and also add to the upper body workout that goes along with the sport. Ultimately, on a heavy

snow day, you need at least six inches of snow for snowshoeing. This unique yet ancient sport gives you exciting options as far as getting out in the great outdoors. Yes, you can always head to the ski slopes and rock the high-speed, elevated trails and have a fantastic time. With snowshoeing, however, all you need to do is simply step out your own back door and go and explore. Or, if you are looking for a backwoods wilderness adventure, snowshoeing is a perfect way to get away from the crowds. You can snowshoe on your street, in local parks and greenways or on the nearest trail. One other option is to park near the gated-off Blue Ridge Parkway and traipse along the flat and beautiful byway. When doing so, be sure and not park in front of any gate. Past that, access to the Parkway, even when the gates are closed for the winter, can be found on Rte. 221 at milepost 305, on Roseboro Road at milepost 208 and on Old Jonas Ridge Road at milepost 311. As for finding snowshoes here in the High Country, Footsloggers is a go-to source. “Technology has cer-

tainly given us a much more nimble and lightweight snowshoe,” said Thea Young, of Footsloggers. “A lot of them are being made with plastic and various rubberized fabrics and lightweight metal combinations. A lot of folks who make snowshoes now make a general fit shoe and a women’s specific fit shoe. A women’s specific fit snowshoe is going to be narrower in the tail, because women usually stand with our feet kicked out a bit. So, with a woman’s stride, a women’s fit snowshoe does not kick its own tail as often.” Most snowshoes offered for sale at Footsloggers fall into the $100 to $200 range, yet once you buy them, they tend to never or rarely wear out and will last for many years. As for one of Young’s favorite places to snowshoe, she chooses a beautiful nearby mountain in Todd. “Sometimes you have to go to higher elevations to get a little bit more snow and there are phenomenal trails where you can do that including Elk Mountain State Park,” said Young. “That park has a fleet of snowshoes and they do guided hikes when the snow levels are appropriate for it.” 39

Safe sledding in Beech Mountain BY DEREK HALSEY

othing excites kids in the wintertime more than a chance to go sledding. To go and buy a new sled or disc, or to break out a classic sled that has been in the family for generations; the fun begins when you aim the sled down the hill, lie down on top of it and proceed to get a good speed going on the snow. This is how memories are made, treasured and passed on to younger generations. These days, kids tend to find sleds that are not only fast but are slightly more controllable. Obviously, the smart thing to do is to find a hill that is both fun and safe with an ending at the bottom that is not near a road or a fence line.

It is also smart to avoid hills that encroach onto private property. While you might find hills either on public land or your vacation site, fortunately, for kids here in the High Country, there is an official sled riding hill up on top of Beech Mountain. Operated by Beech Mountain Park and Recreation Dept., the sledding hill is designated for kids 12 and younger using plastic sleds from 1 to 5 p.m. Located beside the Beech Mountain Visitor’s Center at 403 Beech Mountain Parkway, there are multiple nearby stores that will sell or rent sleds for those who cannot bring their own. A snow blower is on hand to add to the natural snow levels when needed. For more information on snow conditions and more, call (800) 468-5506.

PHOTO BY TODD BUSH Fun and excitement at Beech Mountain’s Youth Sledding Hill during the winter season.

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Winter driving in the High Country means being prepared BY DEREK HALSEY

inter driving can be considered an art form, especially here in the High Country. Western North Carolina is firmly planted in the Sunbelt South, yet due to our beautiful mountains, the highest east of the Rockies, winter weather is a serious issue when it comes to our roads. Thankfully, due to the nature of our weather and the importance of our winter attractions such as ski resorts and tubing venues, there is proper funding for salt trucks and road scrapers that many other states further north than us do not have in their arsenal. Still, being prepared for winter driving and knowing how to drive in rough weather are essential skills for those visiting and living here in the Blue Ridge Mountains. For those able to do so or have access to such vehicles, time spent learning to ride an ATV during wintertime will prove invaluable when it comes to learning how to maneuver in inclement weather. If that isn’t possible, especially if you spend most of your time down off the mountain where snow is rare, there are some tips that will help out when it comes to driving in winter weather. The No. 1 tip is to have your vehicle prepared for the winter months. Things to look at include making sure you have good window wipers on your vehicle as snow and ice will destroy old ones and quickly make them dangerous to use. To go along with that, make sure that our vehicle has the right radiator fluid in it because if your engine freezes at night when it is off, it will wreck your engine. Plus, 44

PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES A line of vehicles carefully traverses N.C. 194 on a snowy day.

you will need strong heat coming through your vehicle heater to both keep you warm and to clear the ice off of the front window. So, check your radiator fluid and make sure it is full of a good winter-proof mix of fluid. When it comes to driving the proper vehicle in the snow and ice, all-wheeldrive or 4-wheel-drive vehicles are best. You can get by with a two wheelfront wheel drive vehicle, but there will be times when it is better to leave them at home. Driving an all-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive vehicle gives you maximum control when driving in winter conditions. Some prefer to put chains on their

tires during periods of high snow and there are many gas stations, tire stores and mechanics that will sell them and install them. Though rarely needed, yet effective when the roads are especially rough, there are rules of the road that must be heeded when in use so know when to remove them if the weather warms up. The next tip is to expect that the worst can happen. One thing that folks in the north do is to keep some blankets, flares and even a jar of peanuts and some water in the car should you slide of the road and end up down a hill where no one can see you or find you. If you are hurt or you can’t open your doors, these items may save your

life. It is also a good idea to keep your cell phone charged up at all times. Mainly, be careful when leaving the main roads to go and drive on the side roads, which are more dangerous and less maintained. Other things to keep in your vehicle during the winter months as suggested by the Triple AAA (American Automobile Association) organization, the Blue Ridge Visitors Vacation Guide and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration include a shovel in case you have to dig yourself out of trouble, a stout windshield ice scraper, kitty litter or sand for both traction and weight, jumper cables in case your battery gets too cold, flares and emergency markers, your needed medications, charged up flashlights, hand warmers and extra antifreeze for your radiator in case your vehicle overheats. Because of the unique geography of the High Country, there is always going to be a combination of natives who are used to winter driving and visitors from down the mountain who are not as adept at driving in snow and ice. Getting a head of steam while driving up a snowy incline can be essential as going too slow will cause you to stop too soon and then the spinning of the tires begins. On the other hand, going too fast on a snowy road can lead to disaster as well. So, there is a middle ground that comes from experience, therefore pay attention to the road conditions around you, don’t take chances and help each other when possible. For updates on High Country road conditions, you can get information by calling the North Carolina Department of Transportation at (877) 368-4968. WINTER TIMES 2020

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WINTER HIKING Challenging and rewarding BY DEREK HALSEY

H PHOTO BY DEREK HALSEY Views such as this offer the High Country hiker a reward for the effort.

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iking in the wintertime can be a challenging sport. Obviously, with snow and ice possibly in the mix, steeper trails can prove to be more dangerous than normal. Still, there is as much beauty on a trail on a snow-covered mountain as exists in any other time of year. But, that is true only for those who are prepared for rougher conditions, colder temperatures and a sun that sets earlier in the day. While it is probably a good idea every the time of year, hiking with a partner or partners is always advantageous in the winter months. If a slip or slide happens and someone gets hurt, it is always better to have someone with you to help with your situation. Also, while it is earnestlygiven advice that is heard throughout one’s life, dressing in warm layers is very important when hiking in the wintertime. Frostbite is to be avoided at all times, yet overheating on the trail can also prove to be a problem. Thankfully, modern-day technology has created clothes that handle

wintertime conditions wonderfully. When it comes to hiking in the snow, be aware that much of the Blue Ridge Parkway may be closed when there is a lot of snow on the ground and many trails may be hard to get to. Yet, that is no excuse as there will still be many opportunities for hiking and exploring. There are few things as wonderful and beautiful as a fresh snow fall. When it comes to snowy trails to explore, the flatter the better is the key. In the towns of Boone and Blowing Rock, the inner-neighborhood Greenway Trails are an option in the winter time. Soon, the new Middle Fork of the New River Greenway Trail will be completed, connecting Blowing Rock and Boone so stay tuned to news of that structure to come. Out on the Blue Ridge Parkway outside of Boone and near Blowing Rock, many seek out the Moses Cone Manor and Memorial Park for many acres of doable trails. Nearby, on the southern end of Shulls Mill Road where it meets the Blue Ridge Parkway, there is a wonderful

trail almost suited for a snowy hike. Just past the one-way exit road for Trout Lake, you will come across a metal fence with a wooden gate beside it by a small parking lot on Shulls Mill Road. This is the awesome Rich Mountain Carriage Trail. About three miles in length, the Rich Mountain Carriage Trail is a moderate hiking and running trail takes you through a Wizard of Oz-type of forest to the left, then it winds up to the top of the mountain where you will find a more prairie-type of landscape and eventually a wonderful view before you head back down to where the local cows are hanging out trailside. The lower, downhill section of the trail leads to Trout Lake, which features an easy walk at the end that goes back up to your vehicle. Even if the Blue Ridge Parkway is closed, you can get onto a small section of it at milepost 305 via Rte. 221. From that intersection just a mile away is the entrance to Grandfather Mountain State Park. Open every day of the year except for SEE HIKING ON PAGE 49

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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Price Lake loop trail is a great winter hike, and if you hit it at the right time when the ice has covered the lake, you can hear the ice creaking and moaning as it shifts.

HIKING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

Thanksgiving and Christmas, depending on the weather, an entrance fee is required to explore the top of Grandfather Mountain and walk through the zoo, featuring black bear, mountain lion, bald eagles, elk and more, and the chance to walk on the famous Mile High Bridge. But for experienced hikers, there is another demanding yet adventurous uphill trail to that leads to Grandfather Mountain that is free, and that is the Profile Trail. A couple of years ago, a new parking area and building were built for the Profile Trail located on Rte. 105 in Banner Elk. The Profile Trail is a marked as strenuous as it will take most of the day to complete, so be sure to research the trail online so you know what to expect as it is a very demanding and potentially dangerous trail in the wintertime. For the experienced hikers, however, it is a great trail to conquer. If you return to the Parkway at the Grandfather Mountain exit on Rte. 221, the first parking lot on your left heading south will be for the Beacon Heights Trail. Considered one of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;coolest Short Trails in the East,â&#x20AC;? the Beacon Heights Cliff Trail takes only a quarter of a mile of walking to reach the top. You will see signs for two other trails once you are on the trail, so just pay attention to the signs and stay on the Beacon Heights Trail. WINTER TIMES 2020

Once near the peak, you will find a stone bench. Go straight at the bench for a cool and easy view, but the better vista happens when you take a left at the bench. After turning left, you will hike up a short set of natural rock stairs that will lead to a flat cliff where the views are spectacular. From there you can see Grandfather Mountain to the left, Wilson Creek Gorge in the middle and the dual elbow-shaped mountains to the right known as Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock Mountains that overlook Linville Gorge. Because it is accessible even if the Blue Ridge Parkway is closed, this is a favorite trail for winter hikers. There is another winter time hike that is doable not far from Beacon Heights. If you get back on Rte. 221 and head south past Grandfather Mountain towards Marion, NC, you will find the turnoff to Rte. 183 about 13 miles down the road. About 7/10 of a mile on Rte. 183, you will find a gravel road on the right with signs that will lead you to Linville Falls. This will be Rte. 1238, aka Old Route 105. The first parking lot you will see on the left are for two trails that show you different views of Linville Falls, which is a beautiful; falls no matter what season it is. The trails are easy to moderate and less than a half mile in length. Whatever you do and wherever you hike in the wintertime; be prepared, hydrate just like you would in the warmer months, and enjoy the winter wonderland. 49

Fly fishing in the High Country’s winter BY DEREK HALSEY

inter is a wonderful time in the High Country, with all sorts of experiences available to those who enjoy the outdoors. While firmly planted in the Sunbelt south, the higher altitudes of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina provide many opportunities for wintertime fun. Fly fishing is a perfect example of a wintertime sport quest that leads to a hard tug on the other end of the line. While most fishermen and women stay close to home in the winter months, waiting for early spring, those with a hearty sense of adventure and the guile to be cheerful in all weathers are wellrewarded when seeking out trout during the offseason. In the winter months, there are many fewer anglers on the waterways than found in the rest of the year. With the influx of folks invading the outdoors during this crazy year of pandemic, having a beautiful section of mountainous nature to yourself with a fly rod in your hand is a great reward for those who wear the right clothing and come with the right mindset. The fact is, as for the three main species of trout found here in the High Country, trout are a cold-watered species by nature. In the amazing water system found here in the High Country, with multiple streams and rivers flowing off of nearly every large mountain; fish are breaking free of the lethargy that comes with the warmer temperatures of summer and they will stay active and feisty throughout in the colder months. There is a wide array of waterways to be explored by the angler around Boone, Banner Elk, Wilson Creek Gorge and Blowing Rock. With a slew of impressive mountains surrounding us, including some of the highest peaks found east of the Rockies, there are many rivers, streams and creeks to seek out with the right hired fishing guide. As a result, the 50

PHOTO BY DEREK HALSEY PHOTO BY DEREK HALSEY Boone’s Fly Shop, owned by Alex Dale, is finding ways to make adjustments due to the coronavirus crisis of 2020. Boone’s Fly Shop and the Foscoe Fishing Company have survived the storm and has even come away with some new ways to do business that were influenced by the pandemic lockdown.

trout fishing industry has become one of the biggest businesses in our area. Fly fishing is a different method of fishing compared to the usual rod and reel, can-of-worms type of angling that many of us learned to do as kids. With many breeds of freshwater fish such as bass, bluegrass, crappie, catfish and more, a spinning reel or bait caster reel is used to throw out either live bait or artificial lures to fool them, catch them and bring them in, depending on the species and natural fishing conditions. Fly fishing, however, is viewed by many as a more refined and precise approach to fishing due to the nature of the species of choice, the trout. As a result, trout fishing requires a different kind of fishing system that is both easy to learn and fascinating to experience. Brown trout, rainbow trout and native brook trout are the three species of trout found in North Carolina. The optimum water temperature for trout is found within the 40- to 70-degree range. The rainbow trout is a species that is

Fly fishing in the High Country.

native to the Pacific Northwest, yet it was successfully introduced into North Carolina waters many years ago. That is also true with the brown trout, which is a species that was brought in from Europe and Asia. Brook trout, however, is the smaller trout species that is native to the eastern half of the U.S. and Canada. Because this is their original home, they are appreciated and prized by anglers. Because of the trout’s idiosyncratic traits when it comes to eating; fly fishing rods, reels and baits are the preferred method of fishing for these wonderful creatures. At the heart of the trout fishing system is the artificial lure, all of which are designed to mimic the small aquatic, land-based and flying creatures that trout love to eat. Known overall as trout flies, many of these artificial lures are small and hand-crafted, using various materials to make a furry fly that will land on the top of the water just right so it will trigger a strike by a waiting trout. The lures used in the winter months, however, are different than those used in the warmer months as there are little to no insects for the fish to eat in the wintertime. So, lures mimicking the creatures that live in the water year round are used instead, with great success. To get a floating artificial lure to land just right on the top of the water or slowly sinking under the water line; that is

where the distinctive design of the fly rod and reel comes into play. Using a long fly fishing rod, the angler is able to cast the light-in-weight lure back and forth in the air forcibly but smoothly with the goal of releasing enough fishing line to get the lure to the spot where the trout are hiding. Many of us have seen fly fish anglers in action, either walking a stream or on video. What is fun about the sport is that you can learn how to use fly fishing rods, reels and baits in less than a day. Fly fishing adds a whole other layer to the fishing experience and new fly fishing anglers soon develop a passion for the sport. For those of you that want to take the plunge and learn a wonderful new way of connecting with nature that will last a lifetime, there are many fly fishing outfitters located here in the High Country that will assist you and guide you. Not only can you buy gear from them, they will teach you how to fly fish for trout and then take you to the best, most secret waterways where the big trout live. The sport is yet another reason why this area is a great place to vacation, visit and to live in. There is, however, only one fly fishing gear store and guiding service located in the middle of downtown Boone — Boone’s Fly Shop. Formerly known as Highland Outfitters, Boone’s Fly Shop is located on the SEE FISHING ON PAGE 52

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second floor suite of a refurbished and old antique building at 140 S. Depot St., Highland Outfitters is a full-service company ready to supply all of your fishing gear needs and put you on the water with experienced guides. Some of the prime fly-fishing rivers and streams serviced by the company are found in Linville, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Boone as well as the Watauga and the South Holston Rivers in Tennessee. Owner Alex Dale found success with his Highland Outfitters store originally located in Linville. Then, he started a second business with the Foscoe Fishing Company located on Rte. 105 outside of Boone, which is still in business. Then, when he found out that this prime piece of real estate was open to rent in downtown Boone, he decided to take a leap and move his Highland Outfitters operation to the downtown area where the tourists and potential fly-fishing enthusiasts

are thick, especially during the holiday months. While Dale had to make adjustments due to the coronavirus crisis of 2020, Boone’s Fly Shop and the Foscoe Fishing Company have survived the storm and has even come away with some new ways to do business that were influenced by the pandemic lockdown. “The retail side of the business is why I am here in downtown Boone, plus the fact that no matter where the shop is, we are never far from prime fishing waters,” said Dale. “The New River starts here in Boone as does Winklers Creek, and we also fish as far away as the tailwaters of the Watauga River and the South Holston River, which are some of the best trout fisheries in the Southeast. Those cool waterways and the limestone rock in the water are all a part of good trout fishing. As for this year of 2020, we have been fortunate enough to leave our doors open during the pandemic, utilizing the 50 percent capacity limit for stores. People, however, were and are still fishing during this situation, so business is good.”

Fly fishing, in many ways, is a perfect sport to seek out during a pandemic. “The thing about fly fishing is we prefer to be socially distant anyway,” said Dale. “We had customers who wanted to support us during this hard time so they would buy our gift cards. Things like that helped to keep our doors open. Fly fishing, especially the guide service side of the industry, took a big hit because of the lockdown as it takes tourism and travel to happen. Even though we have altered our practices a bit, business has finally picked up as folks began to flock to the outdoors. We have a lot of folks that come into town to learn how or where to fish. Our fastest demographic is women taking up the sport and next to that are younger folks who are taking up fly fishing as well, from teenagers to college students to those in their late 20s.” Dale is an optimist when it comes to the future, his company and with fly fishing in general. “Short term, it has been difficult, but long term is starting to look better,” said Dale. “The silver lining is that I am learn-

ing new ways to do business and to help our customers. The engagement with our customers that we have experienced on social media has been surprising. I have always used social media as a place where I like to provide free information and entertainment, a place where people can learn how to fly fish, and to paint a pretty picture of life on the water. But, I never focused on selling much on those platforms. At the same time, social media has been very helpful as people have been forward about buying our products and helping us to keep our store open during this crazy time. It has led to a deeper engagement with our local and regional fly fishermen and women.” Now, it seems like more people than ever have discovered the outdoors and all that nature has to offer. The growing sport of High Country fly fishing is an excellent way to experience life in the mountains in the winter time. And, if you are dreaming of fly fishing in the springtime, the holiday season is a great time to buy fishing-related gifts and to catch up on the latest lures and trends.

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BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY I BY DEREK HALSEY

t has been an eventful 2020, and that has been true for the Great Outdoors as much as other aspects of the human experience. It has still been less than a year since the coronavirus invaded our space, as well as all other tumultuous events that followed and accompanied the pandemic. One thing that changed was the flooding of the outdoors by folks from all walks of life who

were clamped down by lockdowns and economic stress. From the middle of 2020 on, crowds have descended into many of our local, regional and national parks including our great and historic byway known as the Blue Ridge Parkway. Now, as winter approaches, except for a few visitors centers, the Blue Ridge Parkway is open. If the weather gets snowy, however, the rangers will shut down

SEE BRP ON PAGE 66

PHOTO BY DEREK HALSEY Wintertime on the Blue Ridge Parkway is different than during all of the other seasons. While it still provides a destination for adventure and natural beauty, as seen here, it is a roadway highly susceptible to the weather conditions.

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the Parkway quickly, so stay tuned. Wintertime on the Blue Ridge Parkway is different than during all of the other seasons. While it still provides a destination for adventure and natural beauty, it is a roadway highly susceptible to the weather conditions. If planned right, however, a winter wonderland experience is possible on the BRP. Before venturing onto the BRP in the wintertime, you can check the road conditions at www.nps.gov/blri/ planyourvisit/conditions.htm. The BRP is perhaps the most traveled scenic road in all of America. Beginning on top of the impressive Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, the 469-mile long drive was built to ride the high ridge lines of the Blue Ridge Mountains to showcase the immense natural beauty of the region. As it winds its way from Virginia through the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina, the road is marked by mileposts which come in the form of white blocks with numbers on them that are seen along the roadside. Built during the Great Depression and sanctioned by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the BRP has a historic aspect to it as well, including the hand-made stone archway bridges found throughout the length of the roadway that were built by the WPA workers of the day. Ultimately, however, it is the incredible vistas and views that make this road a destination for tourists from all over the U.S. as well as the world. The section of the BRP that runs through the Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk regions of Western North Carolina is considered one of the more picturesque of the journey. As a result, visitors from all over the world come to the High Country to experience the many activities, unique businesses, live music, breweries and wineries that are open throughout the winter located near our section of the BRP. Appalachian Mountain Ski Resort, 66

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE The Blue Ridge Parkway has many opportunities for winter scenery, like Grandfather Mountain shown here, but check to ensure sections are open after a winter event has occurred because it may be closed.

Beech Mountain Ski Resort and Sugar Mountain Ski Resort provide the highest elevation skiing in all of the eastern U.S. All three are within a few short miles of the BRP. As for accessing the BRP in the winter months, weather is the key factor. If snow, sleet, ice on the bridges or roadways, or even dense fog is creating a problem, there are many gates along the BRP that the national park rangers will close. If the road conditions are good, however, the sights mentioned below will be doable. But, even if the BRP is officially closed, there are still ways to reach small sections of the roadway, including some wonderful trail areas for winter hiking, and those are mentioned below as well. If you are able to get onto the BRP this winter and the

gates are open, at milepost 299 you will find the beginning of a run of more adventurous hiking trails that begin at various parking lots found on the both sides of the road. One of the first ones you will come across will be the Boone Fork Trail found on the right. Exploring the northern side of Grandfather Mountain, it is a moderate, mostly level trail that is a beautiful fivemile roundtrip. For those not in the mood to hike, on the left at milepost 301 is a pull-over known as the Wilson Creek Valley View. Whether you stay in your vehicle or walk along the edge, the view is magnificent, especially if the sun is shining on Wilson Creek Gorge down below at sunrise or right before sunset. At milepost 300 you will come across

one of the more popular mountain trails on this section of the BRP called the Rough Ridge Trail. The parking lot is usually filled with vehicles, especially on a warm, sunny day, because this moderately difficult trail takes you to some stunning overlooks on the slopes of Grandfather Mountain. When you get back on the BRP and travel a little further south and you will experience one of the more famous sections of the road called the Linn Cove Viaduct. The last section of the BRP to be built, it is a curvy engineering marvel that shoots out over Wilson Creek Gorge. Before the main part of the viaduct begins, there will be a parking lot to the left called the Yonahlossee Overlook that provides a trail that runs alongside and underneath the viaduct and that walkway also provides some great views. For an even higher adventure, continue just a mile or so past the Linn SEE BRP ON PAGE 67

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Cove Viaduct and take the Rte. 221 exit to Grandfather Mountain State Park. There you will find many sights and activities for the whole family. For an entrance fee, the trip to the top of Grandfather Mountain will feature a wild animal zoo, trails to hike, a gift shop, restaurant and the famous Mile High Bridge to walk across. The views are stunning and on a rare, crystalclear day you can see the skyline of Charlotte, 90 miles away on the horizon. Weather permitting; Grandfather Mountain State Park is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. More information on entrance fees and opening and closing times of Grandfather Mountain State Park can be found at grandfather. com. If you continue on Rte. 221 past the entrance to Grandfather Mountain,

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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE If you are a lucky traveler on the Blue Ridge Parkway you could have a special moment seeing wildlife in their natural environment.

that will lead to the resort town of Banner Elk. Within a short distance of this mountain hamlet, you will find

Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and Beech Mountain Ski Resort. Depending on the weather, there are years when the

cold winds show favor and skiing can begin before Thanksgiving weekend. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery and Banner Elk Winery are also found close by and are open throughout the winter months. Back on the Blue Ridge Parkway heading south from Grandfather Mountain, the first parking lot on the left leads to the renowned Beacon Heights Trail at milepost 305, considered one of the coolest short hikes east of the Mississippi River. At milepost 308 is the also easy Flat Rock Trail on the right, which many hike at sunset for the photographic opportunities. As you keep heading south, you will find easy and amazing views of Linville Falls and Linville Gorge by turning off the Rte. 221 exit at milepost 317 on the BRP. Once exited, turn left onto Rte. 221 and then take another left onto RT. 183 less than a mile ahead. At about 7/10 of a mile on Rte. 183, you will find a gravel road on the right with signs for Rte. 1238, aka Old Route 105, that SEE BRP ON PAGE 68

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will lead you to Linville Falls. The first parking lot you will see on the left on the gravel road leads to two short yet moderate trails that lead to different views of Linville Falls as well as the gorge itself. Four miles farther on the gravel road will lead you to the famous Wisemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s View parking area, which offers an incredible panorama of Linville Gorge after a very short hike. But, during the winter months, you will have to have either a 4-wheeldrive or an all-wheel-drive vehicle to make your way on the gravel mountain roads, and caution must be used even in the best wintertime conditions. After that hike, back track and return to Rte. 221. At the three-way intersection, you can turn left onto Rte. 221 and you will soon find the entrance to the popular Linville Caverns just a short drive away. In December, JanuSEE BRP ON PAGE 69

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Linville Falls in the winter months can produce beautiful scenes when the waterfall is completely frozen.

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ary and February, Linville Caverns are only open on Saturdays and Sundays. When you return to the BRP and head south, this exceptional roadway will lead you to even more great views and fun stops along the way with new places to explore. On milepost 318 is the North Toe River Valley Overlook on the right that has a wonderful view of the sunset. Four miles further on the left at milepost 323 is another amazing vista at the infamous Bear Den Overlook. As you continue further south on the BRP, you will find Crabtree Falls, the town of Little Switzerland featuring the Switzerland Inn, Hotel and Spa, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals and more. Eventually, you BRP journey will lead you to the turn off for Mount Mitchell at milepost 355. At 6,684 feet in elevation, Mount Mitchell is the highest mountain east

of the Rockies and the good news is that you can drive virtually all of the way to the top. The walk to the summit is only about 300 yards from the parking lot. Mount Mitchell State Park is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. from November to February, and will be closed on Christmas Day. If you stay on the BRP and continue south to its end, you will eventually arrive at the city of Asheville and the Great Smoky Mountains further west. If there is snow on the ground and the gates on the BRP are closed, you can still access certain section of this famous roadway. Providing you are driving a vehicle with 4-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive capability, you can drive past the front gate of Grandfather Mountain State Park on Rte. 221 and pull onto the BRP at milepost 304. There, even if the gates are closed to the left, you can turn right and head south to the parking lot of the

wonderful Beacon Heights Cliff Trails about 50 yards away. If you get back on Rte. 221 and head back down the mountain past Grandfather Mountain State Park you will end up in Linville, where Rte. 221 turns left and heads towards Marion. Just a couple of miles down Rte. 221 and you will find Old Jonas Ridge Road on the left. Turn left onto Old Jonas Ridge Road and you will cross the BRP at milepost 311. But, keep going straight on Old Jonas Ridge Road and go two miles until you see a white church on your left at a big curve in the road. Beside the white church is a gravel road that goes straight at the turn. That is Forest Road 464, aka Pineola Road. Once on Forest Road 464, you will see the trailhead for Big Lost Cove Cliffs on the left a couple of miles in, and three miles farther you will see a

small parking lot on the right for the Little Lost Cove Cliffs trail. The latter is a shorter hike, but both of these moderately difficult trails lead to outstanding cliff-top vistas. Do some research online and you will find many other trails, waterfalls and more on this same Forest Road 464 road as it goes deeper into the Wilson Creek Gorge area. Again, this is a gravel road so a proper vehicle is required, especially during the winter months. Most visitor’s centers and campgrounds along the BRP are closed by the end of November. Two exceptions are the North Carolina Museum of Minerals at milepost 330 and the Folk Art Center located at milepost 382, both of which are open year round. The winter season on the Blue Ridge Parkway can be both dangerous and a real adventure. As always, be prepared, drive the right vehicle, don’t hike alone, call ahead for conditions and enjoy one of the most scenic areas found on the Earth.

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Amy Brown, CPA P.C. Certified Public Accountant Amy Brown, CPA Certified Public Accountant PO Box 21239 4501 Tynecastle Hwy, Suite 16 browncpa@skybest.com 828.898.7601

For Leasing Information Call 828.898.6246

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Peak Real Estate 25 Years of Experience in High Country Real Estate “We understand the importance of your investment.” 401 Tynecastle Hwy, Suite 6 www.peak-realestate.com 828.898.1880

Avery County Chamber of Commerce www.averycounty.com info@averycounty.com 828.898.5605

Creative Interiors

Creative Interiors Interior Desing Service · Furnishings, Lighting, and Art Gifts, Accessories, and More 4501 Tynecastle Hwy, Suite 4 828.898.9636

Salon Suites at Tynecastle Salon M 828.898.3719

Encore Travel A comfortable luxury travel agency where you taste international wines that inspire travel to your next destination. Wine tastings, pairings & events focused on experiential travel. Located next to the Avery Chamber of Commerce. 828-719-6955 wendy@encoretravelltc.com

Tynecastle Realty tynecastlerealty.com 828.898.7777

Tynecastle Builders 828.898.7777

Valle de Bravo Mexican Grill valledebravomexicangrill.net 828.898.4949

BB&T www.BBandT.com 828.BBT-ONLINE Ray Smith Construction Co., Inc An unlimited licensed contractor offering plan development and site for highway and utility systmes in North Carolina and the surrounding states. PO Box 822, Linville, NC 28646 828.898.7729

Walgreens Pharmacy and Photo Services 4059 NC Hwy 105 South 828.898.8971

Bank of America ATM Location

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A to Z Auto Detailing 828.260.0283

State Employees’ Credit Union ATMLocation

Go on an adventure to Mystery Hill BY IAN TAYLOR

ysteries abound at the appropriately named Mystery Hill: North Carolina’s Gravitational Anomaly, an iconic attraction that has amazed High Country visitors and locals alike for more than 70 years. “There’s something there for everyone,” third-generation owner Matthew Underwood said. “We’re about the most quirky, eclectic attraction you can imagine.” Activities at Mystery Hill include the Mystery House, which features the attraction’s gravity vortex. The only gravitational vortex in the state, FILE PHOTO it makes water flow uphill, balls roll Ray Pickett prepares to throw a tomahawk at a target on Tomahawk Hill at Mys- upward and individuals in the vortex can’t fight its pull to stand at a 45-detery Hill during the summer of 2019. gree angle. The landmark brings in more than 70,000 visitors from across the globe each year, according to its website, and is constantly updating and adding new things. “Our gem mining experience is getting a complete renovation, it’ll be the only gem mine in the area offering indoor, private sluices so your family will get their own sluice,” Underwood said. “Professor Finnegan’s old-time portrait parlour is expanding, so there’s almost six times as much space as they’ve had in the past, brand-new costumes and brand-new scenes.” Underwood said that the last decade has seen the attraction expand and constantly add new things. “This is our 74th year we’re getting ready to go into and most of our visitors are repeat visitors who come year after year while they’re visiting the mountains so it’s always good to have (Through Christmas) something new for them,” Underwood said. A favorite attraction for many,

We are keeping the store safe and healthy!

FRONT PORCH EATS If you get hungry or thirsty at Mystery Hill, Front Porch Eats offers donuts and other concessions, having opened in summer 2019. With donuts from West Jefferson-based donuts shop Hole Lotta Donuts, ice cream, pretzels and more, visitors can spend longer at Mystery Hill without worrying about meal time. Front Porch Ears is open when Mystery Hill is. Tomahawk Hill, is adding a mechanical bull-riding experience to go with axe or knife throwing, archery and Cherokee blow dart shooting. Underwood said that since it’s opening in 2019, Tomahawk Hill has become a favorite for not just tourists, but locals alike. Other attractions include Bubblerama, a room full of giant bubbles, and The Hall of Mystery, a hands-on science area, along with others. “There’s not many places you can experience that many things,” Underwood said. “It’s one of those places where we have people come year after year and they’re like, ‘It just feels like what you do when you come to the mountains.’ People love it.” Underwood said that Mystery Hill will always be known for the gravitational anomaly, it’s what the attraction was founded on, but the entire experience is what keeps people coming back. With a multitude of options, each one unique and interesting, the attraction has something for everyone. Group rates are available from Mystery Hill and its interactive adventures, along with private event booking. Learn more about Mystery Hill and its numerous attractions at www. mysteryhill.com. WINTER TIMES 2020

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BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT MYSTERYHILL.COM 75

Christmas at

TWEETSIE BY ANDREW COLE

housands of twinkling Christmas lights illuminate the night sky as Tweetsie’s historic steam locomotive chugs through the wintry backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Christmas in the High Country means bright lights, carnival rides, Santa and the sounds of steam whistles, as a Tweetsie Christmas returns to Blowing Rock through Dec. 31. Fun for folks of all ages, a Tweetsie Christmas offers guest a variety of activities ranging from thrilling amusement parks rides such as the “Himalaya” and “The Little Drummer Boy” to the laid-back atmosphere of the Hacienda, where visitors can warm themselves by the campfire and roast s’mores. However, the highlight of the event is the Tweetsie’s narrow-gauge steam locomotive, which takes visitors on a 3-mile train ride past a dazzling display of holiday lights. The train cars are open-air to provide maximum visibility, so guests to Tweetsie are encouraged to dress warmly and bring a blanket or two to share. Visitors hoping to experience the magic of a Tweetsie Christmas should note that this year’s festivi-

ties will be different from previous year’s due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Safety precautions such as social distancing and wearing masks will be encouraged and activities such as the live Tweetsie Christmas Palace Show and life-sized snow globes won’t be available. Visitors to Tweetsie can still meet Santa, however, at his gingerbread house which will be decked out with candy furnishings and holiday decor. Guests to Santa’s house will be kept at socially distanced intervals and a plexiglass safety shield will be between Santa and park guests at all times. A Tweetsie Christmas is about making memories and families are encouraged to come out and experience the splendor of the holiday season with tons of lights, exciting rides, food and fun. Due to the anticipated high volume of calls, it is recommended that tickets be purchased online. Tickets are $44 for adults, $33 for children 3-12 and free for children under 2. For the most up to date information regarding a Tweetsie Christmas, purchasing tickets or COVID-19 restrictions, visit https://tweetsie. com/special-events/tweetsiechristmas#classic-amusementrides. Or, call (877) 893-3874.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TWEETSIE RAILROAD Tweetsie Christmas returned this season on Nov. 23. 76

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PHOTO BY SKIP SICKLER | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION The crisp, clear air of winter makes for stunning views from Grandfather Mountain, which is now offering a Secret Season Pass to help guests enjoy the mountain’s wonders during the quieter months.

Grandfather Mountain offers Secret Season passes BY JAMIE SHELL

LINVILLE — Each 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.” The Secret Season Pass allows holders unlimited, six-month access to the park November 2020 through April 2021. “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. 78

WINTER DEALS AT GRANDFATHER SECRET SEASON PASS — Allows unlimited access to the mountain during from Nov. 1 through April 30, 2021. Cost is $35 per adult and $20 for children ages four to 12. Secret Season Group Pass — A group pass, good for up to six people traveling in the same vehicle, is available for $100. DECEMBER DOLLAR DAYS — In years past, GFM has offered a special treat to area residents of Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga and Wilkes counties, offering patrons an opportunity to access the park for $3 per person, with proof of residence, during the month of December. The park will also offered a corresponding promotion that accepts three cans of food to be donated to charity in lieu of the Dollar Days price. In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is recommended for anyone planning a visit to Grandfather Mountain to call ahead for reservations or questions, or click to www.grandfather.com for additional details. “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.” An individual Secret Season Pass costs $35 plus tax for adults — less than the price of two regular tickets. A child’s Secret Season Pass (ages 4 to 12) is $20 plus tax.

A group pass, good for up to six people traveling in the same vehicle, sells for $100 plus tax and pays for itself on the first visit. The pass allows guests to experience the wonders of Grandfather Mountain without the bustle of spring, summer and fall. 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 Mile-High 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. “Whether your interest is snapping shots of snow-dusted evergreens, sipping soup or hot cocoa from Mildred’s Grill or just SEE PASSES ON PAGE 79

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PHOTO BY VICTORIA DARLINGTON | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION The Secret Season Pass allows guests to experience the wonders of Grandfather Mountain without the bustle of spring, summer and fall.

PASSES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78

savoring the solitude, the Secret Season Pass is the most affordable way to do it,” Ruggiero added. On Nov. 1, Secret Season passes became available online at www.grandfather.com/secretseason, at the Grandfather Mountain Entrance Gate or by calling (828) 733-4337. The passes are valid through April 30, 2021. “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 feels extraordinarily peaceful.” The wildlife habitats on the mountain feature access for visitors to black bear, mountain lion, bald eagles, otters, elk and more. The park also houses a Nature Museum that offers an opportunity to learn about the diverse and sometimes rare aspects of nature that is found on the mountain and in the area that surrounds it. The museum displays range from 60-plus examples of gems WINTER TIMES 2020

and crystals found in this mineral-rich region to native plant life displays created by the late artist Paul Marchand. A number of wildlife movies have been filmed on Grandfather Mountain, and the park’s Nature Museum Theatre plays these productions on a regular basis throughout the day. Grandfather Mountain is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day in winter, weather permitting, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. During times of inclement weather, park opening is delayed until all roads and paths can be cleared of snow and ice. As such, those planning a trip are encouraged to contact the park’s entrance gate before booking their visit to confirm the day’s conditions. Due to COVID-19, Grandfather Mountain is requiring guests to book their visit in advance by clicking to www.grandfather.com. The not-for-profit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation strives to inspire conservation of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For more information, call (800) 468-7325, or click to www.grandfather.com to plan a trip.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Wintertime means fun in the snow for Grandfather Mountain’s resident river otters. 79

Blowing Rock WinterFest BY ANDREW COLE

he month of January typically marks the annual Blowing Rock WinterFest event, a soul warming occasion that fosters community togetherness and creates long lasting memories. Due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s festivities will look a little different, with visitors’ favorites such as the “Polar Plunge” and “Chili Cook Off” taken off the table. There will be, however, plenty of opportunities for folks to experience the magic of winter in downtown Blowing Rock this season. Visitors are still encouraged to celebrate the fun-side of winter by enjoying the dazzling array of lights in downtown Blowing Rock, viewing

FILE PHOTO Sydney Dyer, center, a fifth grader at Blowing Rock School, poses with the Blowing Rock WinterFest snowmen, who were played by Watauga High School sophomores Mia Dyer, left, and Tommie Freundelick, during a past event. FILE PHOTO The ‘Love Blowing Rock’ ice sculpture in front of the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce was one of more than a dozen located across the town during WinterFest in January 2019.

ice sculptors, shopping for winter wear at a vari-

ety of main street shops, going for an ice stroll and

feasting at their favorite restaurants.

Other activities will be dependent on social distancing mandates. For the most up to date information about 2021’s WinterFest events,

contact the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851. Or, visit their website at https:// blowingrockwinterfest. com/.

Where to find local Christmas light displays BY KAYLA LASURE

iewing trees, houses and businesses aglow with Christmas lights is a holiday classic that won’t be stopped by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many families enjoy the tradition of searching for Christmas light 80

displays, and High Country Host — the regional welcome center located in between Boone and Blowing Rock — helps guide people in where to look. Officials with the the Linville Land Harbor community, in Linville and near Boone, stated that the SEE DISPLAYS ON PAGE 81

PHOTO COURTESY OF HIGH COUNTRY LIGHTS High Country Lights is offered in Galax, Va. WINTER TIMES 2020

DISPLAYS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 80

community is not hosting its annual light display in December.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT CHETOLA RESORT

Approximately 30,000 holiday illuminations will light up Chetola Resort starting Nov. 29 through Jan. 21. As visitors drive or walk around Chetola Lake they can view displays such as glittering ice skaters, a Nativity scene, a colorful train, Rudolph and more. For guests staying at the rest, Chetola stated that it will have additional, socially safe offerings available with limited capacity. Chetola guests are required to wear face coverings in all areas when a six-foot distance cannot be maintained, according to the resort. The resort is not allowing people to enter the property if they have a cough, fever or “generally show SEE DISPLAYS ON PAGE 82

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF BLOWING ROCK Chetola Resort’s Festival of Lights is taking place Nov. 29 through Jan. 21.

PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL A train full of very cheerful and merry riders on display at Chetola Resort’s Festival of Lights.

DISPLAYS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 81

signs of feeling unwell.” Temperatures are checked for all guests upon arrival. “We have taken specific measures to assure our guests and team members that their safety and well-being is our number one priority,” Chetola Resort stated. “By acting responsibly, we can maintain ourselves as an open-space destination whenever possible to provide a safe place to create great holiday memories. We continue to review and update our policies to adhere to the current best practices.” 82

HIGH COUNTRY LIGHTS IN GALAX, VA.

High Country Lights, located at Felts Park in Galax, Va., is a free animated light show map featuring over 100,000+ Christmas lights choreographed to holiday music. The “park-n-watch” type show allows visitors to sit in their cars, tune into the 95.9FM local radio station and view the light display. Organizers visitors stay in their vehicles due to COVID-19. If guests decide to exit their vehicle, they’re asked to remain socially distant. Organizers plan to mark the walking track and color tunnel every 10

feet. Visitors are also asked to wear a mask if in close proximity to parties other than their own or while waiting in line for pictures. In the event of Inclement weather, the display will be turned off as a safety precaution, according to light display organizers. Visitors are advised to check www.facebook.com/ HighCountryLights or call (336) 756-7529 before visiting.

SHADRACK’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is offered in seven locations — including Johnson City, Tenn., as well as Char-

lotte and Tyron, N.C. The drive-thru immersive experience features custom-built light displays at the dance along festive music on your radio, including drivethrough tunnels. The Johnson City, Tenn., display will be offered from Nov. 25-Jan. 3 at the Appalachian Fairgrounds (100 Lakeview St., Gray, Tenn.). The display is Charlotte can be seen at the Charlotte Motor Speedway (5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord) from Nov. 21-Jan. 17. The Tryon International Equestrian Center (4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring) is hosting the Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland from Nov.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HIGH COUNTRY LIGHTS High Country Lights, located at Felts Park in Galax, Va., offers a drive-thru tunnel.

20-Jan. 3. To check for ticket prices and times for

each location, visit shadrackchristmas. com. WINTER TIMES 2020

A woolly labor of love

‘Mr. Woolly Worm’ Roy Krege BY JAMIE SHELL

ne of the longest-running festivals in the state of North Carolina is the state’s official woolly worm festival, the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival, held each third weekend in October in downtown Banner Elk. Although the 2020 edition of the festival was canceled, a more muted affair was held due to the COVID-19 pandemic that

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dominated much of the headlines throughout the year, as worms representing the two event sponsoring organizations raced a worm to determine a champion and the weather prediction for the coming winter season. Among the few socially distanced individuals in attendance at the worm race at Holston Presbytery Camp was Roy Krege. Krege, a cofounder of the festival with the late Jim Morton,

has been a cornerstone of the annual Woolly Worm Festival since its inception in 1978. Presiding over the festivities with the moniker of “Mr. Woolly Worm” and adorned with themed hat, shirt, yellow jacket and pink slacks to pair with a woolly autumn beard, Krege for four decades has been the face of the festival, helping to spread the word across the region with public appearances touting the festival’s origins, appeal and

In this photo published in the Oct. 24, 1994, Watauga Democrat, Rebecca Sanders, age 5, of Foscoe, takes home her $50 prize and ribbon after her woolly worm, Go-For, won a semifinal race. Rebecca is shown during a post-race interview with ‘Mr. Woolly Worm,’ Roy Krege.

philanthropy, whether it be hosting worm races at local elementary schools or appearing on regional

television broadcasts to promote the event. “I first wore the shirt that was made by the

festival,” Krege said in a 2016 interview with The SEE KREGE ON PAGE 84

KREGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 83

Avery Journal-Times. “You try to put yourself in and decide how to be a little bit different and how to add some color. When Don Iverson started making the shirts for the festival, that’s when I was able to get these clothes and begin adding to them each year.” Krege’s trademark hat, often overlooked among his distinct ensemble, contains pins that are symbolic of great things in Avery County. Pins commemorate the 1994 passing of the Tour DuPont cycling race in the area, the work of Volunteer Avery County, the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, and, of course, Krege’s beloved Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk, of which he is the club’s longest-serving member since moving to Banner Elk in 1969. For the 40th anniversary of the festival in 2017, Krege and Morton were honored for their service to the event and its primary sponsors, the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and Banner Elk Kiwanis. “If you can touch a life, your life is also touched,” Krege noted in an interview in 2016 when he reflected upon his retirement from full-time service as Mr. Woolly Worm. “Some philosophies say the reason people do things like this is for their own good. Yes, it does make a difference in your life if you’re helping others. But at the same time, you’re touching other people.” Krege has also held a number of positions at Lees-McRae College, and was principal at the Grandfather Academy Charter School in Banner Elk. He has also been previously named Avery County Man of the Year and has been honored as one of the Legends of Avery County. In 2017, the Woolly Worm Committee presented framed prints of that year’s festival poster which commemorated both Krege’s and Morton’s 40 years of service to the festival. “It’s been great,” Krege reflected at the time. “I’m thrilled at how suc84

PHOTO COURTESY ARHS ‘Mr. Woolly Worm’ Roy Krege with his grandson, Cameron Burnop.

WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL BY THE NUMBERS

FILE PHOTO ‘Mr. Woolly Worm’ Roy Krege, with wife, Marion, returned in full regalia for the 2020 woolly worm race held on Oct. 17, 2020, at Holston Presbytery Camp in Banner Elk.

WOOLLY PHILANTHROPY

The race for the prize doesn’t just score some cash for the winning worm coaches. The Woolly Worm Festival is fun and brings families to the area to enjoy a piece of local folklore and an unusual, albeit heated, series of worm races, but more the event is a major fundraiser for two groups in the county. The Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival is the largest fundraiser for the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club and the Avery County Chamber of Commerce. All of the funds raised, after expenses and startup funds for next year, support projects to help community families and children. Proceeds are divided equally between both organizations. While Kiwanis distributes its portion by awarding grants for good causes, the Chamber uses its funds to promote and support local businesses that benefit the entire county. Kiwanis’ grants are generated primarily by the Woolly Worm Festival and July 4 Duck Races, and the club distributes tens of thousands of dollars to support local charitable efforts and children. Other grants have been given to support a number of other organizations. All of the funds raised by Kiwanis are dispensed in the community and the club is funded by member dues. cessful it’s been, and I’m more thrilled about the lives we’ve touched. Not only with all the people that come to the festival and enjoy it so much, but the money that was then able to be given back to so many needy organizations

and especially to touch the lives of children.” The annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival is held each October. For more information, visit www.woollyworm. com.

As much a fall tradition as pumpkin spice, the Woolly Worm Festival returns to picturesque Banner Elk each third weekend in October. This event is set to bring out the area’s smallest competitors but it doesn’t mean there isn’t going to be a big game. Here are some numbers that will be good to know before the festivities begin. $1,000 — The amount that Saturday’s winner will receive if their worm is the fastest. Alongside the cash is the great honor of predicting the winter forecast for the area. 2 — chances of winning big-money prizes. If your worm cannot come out and compete on Saturday due to prior engagements, there is no fear. The festival will hold a second day of races on Sunday. The racers have the chance to win a grand prize total of $500 on Sunday. 3 — feet is the length of the rope is which each worm has to climb. If the worm scales this massive task then it can be deemed the champion over all other Woollies. $4 — The price of entrance tickets for children between the ages of 6 and 12. 5 — If a child is younger than the age of 5, they are admitted into the festival. $6 — The price of entrance tickets for adults. 25 — Woolly Worms are able to compete in each heat, beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20. 44 — The year 2021 will mark the 44th anniversary of the Woolly Worm Festival. 1 — Number of Woolly Worms that will be crowned the grand champion and master weather prognosticator. (828) 896-5605 — The phone number to call for information regarding the festivities of the Woolly Worm Festival, or click to www. woollyworm.com to learn more. WINTER TIMES 2020

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Something for everyone

The High Country’s holiday highlights BY ANDREW COLE

ach year, the shift into the winter season brings about cause for celebration. Communities across the High Country will be decked out in holiday splendor, local ski slopes will reopen and communities will typically gather for a wide range of winter events which begin in the lead up to Christmas and carry on past the New Year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic this year’s seasonal festivities will look a little different than those in the past. There is, however, plenty to do and see in the High Country this winter season. Starting on Nov. 29, Chetola Resort’s annual Festival of Lights opened to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to view thousands of sparkling Christmas lights and other illuminations as they cruise or stroll around Chetola 88

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON Visitors to the Downtown Blowing Rock Holiday Stroll will be able to take in all of the town’s festive holiday lighting, such as these reindeer on the front lawn of the Martin House.

Lake. The event is free and the light display will be up until Jan. 31, 2021. High Country visitors can also swing by Blowing Rock on Dec. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. for the town’s Holiday Stroll. Guests

can stroll through a display of dazzling lights set up in Memorial Park and while also getting in some holiday shopping at several of Blowing Rock’s downtown shops. Many shops will remain

open late on Dec. 4 to celebrate the occasion. Local dance workshop, Studio K will be hosting a virtual rendition of the Christmas classic, “The Nutcracker,” this December. A com-

munity tradition, this year’s “Nutcracker” production was filmed at a number of different venues around the High Country, and will put a Appalachian twist on the holiday favorite

that patrons can enjoy from the comfort of their own home. Tickets for the ballet will go on sale on Nov. 21. Tickets purchased between Nov. 21 — Nov. 28 are $30 per household, $35 per household from Nov. 29 — Dec. 4 and $40 per household from Dec. 5 — Dec. 12. The film will debut online on Dec. 5. For more information, visit http://studiokdancer. com/ or call the studio at (828) 265-6621. Meanwhile in Banner Elk, the Apple Hill Alpaca Farm will be holding its annual Christmas Celebration from Nov. 20 to Dec. 6. Folks are invited to take a walking tour of the farm, meet the barnyard animals and view the farm’s barn which will be dressed to the nines with Christmas decorations. Tickets to this event vary by age. For more information about this event call (828) 963-1662. Nestled in the SEE HIGHLIGHTS ON PAGE 90

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PHOTO BY AMANDA LUGENBELL Storefronts and display windows in downtown Blowing Rock are all decorated for the holidays.

SUMBITTED PHOTO Apple Hill Farm features an assortment of animals on its guided walking tours, including alpacas.

HIGHLIGHTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 88

mountains of Ashe County, the small town of Lansing will be holding its annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Visitors can enjoy a cup of hot cider, coffee or hot chocolate and listen to Christmas carols. The event is free and will be held on Dec. 5 from 5:30 - 6 p.m. at the Lansing’s Creeper Trail Park, located at 114 S. Big Horse Creek Road. On Dec. 12, join Beech Mountain for Santa and Cookies. Step in to Four Seasons at Beech Mountain, 608 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, to see Santa, where Mrs. Claus will hand out cookies and a special craft. Outside will be a fire pit and hot cocoa. All safety guidelines will be required including mask and social distancing. Email: Info@BeechMTNChamber.com. 90

PHOTOS SUBMITTED Chetola’s Festival of Lights is one of the High Country’s signs of the season.

PHOTO SUBMITTED The public is invited to view multiple light displays on the grounds of Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock.

There are also plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and snow

tubing, this winter at a number of different slopes around the High Coun-

try such as Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Appalachian Ski Mtn. and Hawksnest. No matter the season or the circumstance, there’s always a chance for family fun in the High Country. Whether it’s taking in the stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains or enjoying a spectacular holiday lights display, the High Country is where memories are made. WINTER TIMES 2020

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High Country theaters keep audiences engaged

theatre.org or call (336) 846-2787.

BY KAYLA LASURE

he High Country offers several theaters to keep families entertained for decent prices. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, patrons are urged to contact venues for more information regarding productions and events.

APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY

APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE AND DANCE

Marking its 31st year in fall 2020, the Appalachian State University Department of Theatre and Dance offers audiences student-produced, faculty-supervised laboratory productions. According to the department, co-curricular productions are an important part of academic learning for theater and dance students. The department hosts six faculty-directed mainstage productions each year in the Valborg Theatre — located at 480 Howard St. — on the university’s campus. Additionally, the department offers other events like several studio productions or theater for youth performances produced by Appalachian Young People’s Theatre. 92

PHOTO BY LYNN WILLIS Parker Stone, right (playing a character names Jamie), and Joy Siler, left (playing a character named Mary), perform in the App State Department of Theatre and Dance premier of ‘Five Mile Lake’ in early 2020.

season in fall 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about upcoming performances by the department, visit theatreanddance.appstate.edu/about or call (828) 262-3028.

ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE

PHOTO COURTESY OF ENSEMBLE STAGE Ensemble Stage hosts its production of ‘I’ll Be Back Before Midnight’ in June 2019.

Most shows provided by the department are open to the public.

App State’s Department of Theatre and Dance offered a virtual

The Ashe County Little Theatre is an all-volunteer community-based theater group that offers three to four shows a year at the 282-seat Ashe Civic Center in West Jef-

ferson. ACLT canceled its four-show 2020 season of live stage plays due to the pandemic, but found a creative way to draw in audiences by hosting a radio performance of “War of the Worlds” aired live on WKSK radio in October. For information on future ACLT productions or to make a donation to the organization, visit www.ashecountylittle-

The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country was built in 1938, and has since changed ownership several times while closing for some periods of time. The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country Inc. — with assistance of the Downtown Boone Development Association — purchased the property in 2013 and began efforts to bring the Appalachian Theatre back to life. The theater hosted its first show in a grand re-opening in October 2019. During the theater’s first five months of operation, the venue hosted 8,217 visitors and 26 events. The theater’s last event was the sold-out Wailin’ Jennys concert on March 7, whereafter the theater has been unable to host events due to COVID-19. Theater officials have since found ways to engage with audiences, such as featuring online called independent and SEE THEATERS ON PAGE 94

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SUBMITTED PHOTO The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country hosts an online concert to benefit local businesses.

THEATERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 92

documentary films through a series called Boone Docs. To learn more about the Appalachian Theatre and upcoming events, visit www.apptheatre.org. 94

BEANSTALK COMMUNITY THEATRE

Established in 2012, the Beanstalk Community Theatre is a volunteer nonprofit run by Creative Director Amy Beane and Executive Director Andrea McDonough. The theater organization was declared the “Spirit of the Festival Award” winners at the Southeastern Theatre Conference in February 2020.

Beanstalk Community Theatre often offers shows in venues such as Hardin Park Elementary School or Watauga High School, though they turned to virtual means in 2020. Canceling its live shows, the organization shared its virtual soap opera series — As the Beanstalk Turns — via its Facebook. The theater stated that it is planning other virtual shows, and to check

it’s Facebook, Instagram and www. beanstalknc.com for more information. Beanstalk Community Theatre can also be reached at (828) 312-0263 or info@ beanstalknc.com.

ENSEMBLE STAGE

Located in Banner Elk, Ensemble Stage states that it offers professional SEE THEATERS ON PAGE 95

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theater at affordable prices. Since its inception in 2009, Ensemble Stage has presented more than 100 productions and sold over 25,000 show tickets. Ensemble Stage postponed its four professional summer productions to the 2021 summer season. The organization was able to host its Theatre for Kids production “Appalachian Jack” in August. Unfortunately the theater canceled its annual holiday musical variety show titled “A Banner Elk Christmas.” To stay up to date on Ensemble Stage, visit www.ensemblestage. com or contact (828) 414-1844) or info@ensemblestage.com.

IN/VISIBLE THEATRE

Rather than offering several

PHOTO SUBMITTED Ashe County Little Theatre presented ‘Gypsy’ in June 2019.

shows a year, the In/Visible Theatre states it “creates long-simmered, multiflavored, well-seasoned plays that take time.” The theater operates with a mission of showcasing meaningful, beautiful and socially

relevant theatre pieces. For more information about In/ Visible Theatre, visit invisibletheatrenc.wixsite.com/invisibletheatrenc or contact invisibletheatrewnc@gmail.com.

PHOTO BY LESLIE RESTIVO The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country in

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The show must go on

Appalachian Theatre creatively engages audiences BY KAYLA LASURE

he Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is like many other theaters and cultural facilities around the country that are going through what Keith Martin — the theater’s chair calls a “major paradigm shift.” During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Appalachian Theatre has had to adapt how it provides entertainment and support for the surrounding community. Five months after hosting its first performance, the Appalachian Theatre closed its doors to the public due to the pandemic, and has found innovative ways to still interact with audiences. Martin said the planning and implementation of in-person and/or virtual productions, performing arts events and community programs are being done on a much shorter time frame than before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Everyone has become as flexible and adaptive as possible in order to take advantage of op98

portunities that present themselves on relatively short notice,” Martin said. Recent examples at the Appalachian Theatre include the a local candidate forum in October sponsored by the Blowing Rock and Boone Area Chambers of Commerce, a benefit event with live performances broadcast from the venue’s stage and a fundraiser with a live event broadcast in real time on multiple platforms. Martin said his favorite thing about the theater is its visibility and active role in the Boone community. ATHC Executive Director Laura Kratt said that typically the theater’s front display windows showcase upcoming events, but while the theater is closed, the windows are being filled the with the faces of Boone. “We’re shining a light on compelling community stories, like our recent Watauga High School performing arts graduates, the people of SEE APP THEATER ON PAGE 99

PHOTO SUBMITTED The Appalachian Theatre marquee tells community members that it will ‘be back soon’ during the COVID-19 pandemic. WINTER TIMES 2020

APP THEATER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 98

Hospitality House and (in November) the remarkable stories of our (historic Black community) Junaluska neighbors,” Kratt said. Kratt said that the theatre’s large display windows reach large numbers of folks in downtown Boone, including local citizens, seasonal residents and visitors to the High Country who stroll up and down the sidewalks in front of the venue. It’s King Street location next to the town of Boone municipal offices generates extensive foot traffic, and the display windows provide an opportunity for pedestrians to stop and enjoy each exhibit, she said. Additionally, the theater launched a year-round film series — called Boone Docs — featuring independent and documentary films that “spark community conversation by presenting an independent lens to view our world,” theater officials stated. Showcasing emerging and award- winning filmmakers and distinct perspectives from across the globe, Boone Docs celebrates the creative power of independent film. South Arts in Georgia selected the Appalachian Theatre in Boone as one of only 17 Screening Partner organizations in the southeast United States chosen for the 2020-21 Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. The film selection process is equally rigorous with more than 200 filmmakers competing to be one of the six films

PHOTO SUBMITTED The Appalachian Theatre is screening ‘Thumbs Up for Mother Universe’ on Feb. 21.

presented on each local tour. A dedicated 12-person local film team was an invaluable part of the process volunteering countless hours in film review to help bring compelling and engaging films to Boone.

APPALACHIAN THEATRE HISTORY According to the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country, the theater was built in 1938 by W. Ralph Winkler and A. E. Hamby based on a design by a Lenoir architect — Clarence P. Coffey. The theater first opened on Nov. 14, 1938, with a screening of “Breaking the Ice.” At that time, admission was 10 or 20 cents for the matinee and 10 or 25 cents for the evening showing. The theater — operating at the time as the Appalachian Amusement Company — temporarily closed after suffering damages after a fire on Jan. 21, 1950, that was ignited by a defective popcorn maker. Renovation work proceeded quickly, and the theater reopened the following May. Ownership of the building changed hands several times over the years. Issues such

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Three films premiered in the series in fall 2020 with online screenings, with three additional documentaries slated for February, March and April 2021. Boone Docs presents Southern Circuit films hosted by the filmmakers them-

selves, giving audiences a look behind the scenes with post-screening question and answer sessions about film subjects and the filmmaking process plus activities like workshops and class visits. SEE APP THEATER ON PAGE 100

as the gradual but increasing decline of theatrical exhibition and the looming expense of updating the theater with state-of-the-art digital projection led to the closing of the theater on Nov. 29, 2007. The town of Boone purchased the building in 2011. The ownership changed again in 2013 when the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country Inc. — with assistance of the Downtown Boone Development Association — purchased the property in 2013 and began efforts to bring the Appalachian Theatre back to life. ATHC is a nonprofit organization that was committed to recreating the theater’s former glory, preserving its history and transforming the building into one of the High Country’s premier arts and culture venues. The theater hosted its first show in a grand re-opening in October 2019.

PHOTO SUBMITTED ‘Overland: Wake the Ancient Wild’ is being screened March 14.

APP THEATER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 99

At 3 p.m. on Feb. 21 “Thumbs Up for Mother Universe” — a film by George King — will be screened by the theater. Lonnie Holley has been described as a poet, a prophet, a hustler, a visionary artist and a shaman, according to ATHC. The 67-year old Holley has overcome grinding poverty, Jim Crow and a nightmare childhood to emerge as a creative powerhouse with an agenda to save the planet. “Overland: Wake the Ancient Wild,” by Revere La Noue and Elisabeth Haviland James is described by ATHC a visually stunning, stirring and cinematic journey shot across four continents that twists and turns like nature itself – bridging ancient to modern, east to west and earth to sky. As each of these stories unfolds; eagles, falcons and hawks play a critical role in helping their human partners keep the wild from fading out 100

of sight and out of mind. This documentary will be screened at 3 p.m. on March 14. The Boone Docs series concludes at 3 p.m. on April 18 with “Cured” — Patrick Sammon and Bennett Singer’s moving work that sheds a light on the historic and political history of the LGBTQ community through the lens of the medical field. It takes audiences behind the scenes of this riveting narrative to chronicle the strategy that led to a crucial victory in the movement for LGBTQ rights and the first major step on the path to first-class citizenship for LGBTQ Americans. Boone Docs is offered free to High Country audiences through the generous support of the theatre’s board of trustees. The link to view the livestreaming will be sent to those signed up for the Appalachian Theatre’s e-list on the day of the event. To subscribe to the e-list and view these events at no cost, visit the theatre’s website at www. apptheatre.org. WINTER TIMES 2020

Thursday, January 28th THROUGH

Sunday, January 31st Join the Village of Blowing Rock as we celebrate the fun side of winter with the 23rd annual Blowing Rock WinterFest!

www.BlowingRockWinterfest.com BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PO BOX 406 • 132 PARK AVENUE, BLOWING ROCK, NC 28605 828/295-7851 • www.BlowingRock.com

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Appalachian State’s winter theater season I BY DEREK HALSEY

n this time of virus pandemic, the entertainment industry has been especially hit hard as has any venture that requires a live audience. Every fall and winter, as well as during the spring and summer months, the Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs at Appalachian State University here in Boone presents its annual performing arts series. Centered on the beautiful 1,600-seat Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts that is located on campus, normally a wide variety of world-renown musicians, dancers and actors come to town from around the world to fill up a bill of impressive entertainment. It s one of the great perks of living in a college town, especially one that is somewhat isolated in these beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. In 2020, unfortunately, live shows have been put on hold until the coronavirus is under control. So, as this year comes to an end, Appalachian State’s Office of Arts and Cultural 102

PHOTO COUTESY THE JANE GOODALL INSTITUTE BY BILL WALLAUER Presented in October virtually as part of App States fall and winter theater presentations, and drawing from more than 100 hours of never-before-seen footage that has been tucked away in the National Geographic archives for over 50 years, award-winning director Brett Morgen (‘Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck’) tells the story of ‘Jane,’ a woman whose chimpanzee research challenged the maledominated scientific consensus of her time and revolutionized our understanding of the natural world. Set to a rich orchestral score from legendary composer Philip Glass, the film offers an unprecedented, intimate portrait of Jane Goodall — a trailblazer who defied the odds to become one of the world’s most admired conservationists. Rated: PG. Streaming options for the film include National Geographic and Nat Geo WILD.

Affairs decided to take advantage of modern day technology by creat-

ing a virtual performing arts series that lasted from Oct. 9 with Shake-

speare’s “Othello,” to Dec. 4’s Holiday Scholarship Concert.

For upcoming events in 2021 visit https://theatreanddance.appstate.

edu/performances/ complete-season-listing for periodic updates. WINTER TIMES 2020

Art Galleries

COMPILED BY ANDREW COLE

orthwestern North Carolina is home to a wide variety of art galleries featuring work from countless local artist who exhibit their individual talents in their respected artistries. Please note, that due to the COVID-19 pandemic gallery hours and events may be subject to change. Individuals planning to visit galleries in the High Country should call ahead or check gallery websites for changes.

Ashe County ACORN GALLERY

103 Long Street, West Jefferson (336) 246-3388 www.acrongallery.com West Jefferson’s Acorn Gallery showcases a variety of different styles of art from photo-realism to plein air. Raney Rodger, the gallery’s owner and curator, has taught art in public schools, as well as to private students. Art is available to order online along with requesting commissions. Visit the Acorn Gallery’s website to learn more.

ASHE CUSTOM FRAMING AND GALLERY

105 S. Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-2218 www.ashecustomframing.com For more than 19 years, Ashe Custom Framing has offered extraordinary works of art from quality artists, as well professional framing services. Stop by to have a piece framed or to find that WINTER TIMES 2020

perfect piece of art for your home. Store hours throughout the month of December are 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. — 2.p.m. on Saturdays. From January to March, Ashe Custom Framing and Gallery is open from 10 a.m. — 3 p.m Tuesday through Saturday.

CATCH LIGHT GALLERY

118 N. Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-1551 www.cathchlightgallery.com Nestled in the mountains of Ashe County, the Catch Light Gallery offers an ever changing abundance of photo art from a wide variety of photographers. Exhibited works change every month, and artists always try to work a day in the gallery in order to meet-in-greet customers. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. — 5 p.m. on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. — 4 p.m. on Sundays.

CHER SHAFFER STUDIO GALLERY

676 S. Main Street, West Jefferson (336) 385-6001 www.chershaffer.com A self-taught artist, Cher Shaffer has

compiled a nationally known gallery which exhibits original folk art, outsider art, antiques and collectibles in West Jefferson. To learn more about current or up-coming exhibits, call the gallery or visit its website.

FLORENCE THOMAS ART SCHOOL

10 S. Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-3827 www.florenceartschool.org Each Thursday from 1-4 p.m., the Florence School of Art hosts an open studio in its downtown West Jefferson studio space. This non-instructional, informal time provides guests the opportunity to work with one another and meet fellow artists. Gallery membership is $50 annually. Visit the gallery website for more information.

ORIGINALS ONLY GALLERY

3-B N. West Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com This gallery features handcrafted folk art trees and wooden furniture created by artist Elijah Holman. As well as a wide selection of pottery from across North Carolina and a fine selection of bags, scarves, and textiles from around the world. The gallery also features works by two Ashe County’s artist: Joan Stiles Bell and Susan Van Wky and prints from Lenore de Pree. Originals Only is open Wednesday — Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., and by appointment.

QUILT SQUARE GIRLS

5 E. Second Street, West Jefferson (336) 385-0196 www.ilovebarnquilts.com This shop carries vibrant works from a variety of talented artists including photographers, fiber artists, jewelry, pottery, hand forged knives and carpenters. The gallery’s hours are from Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on Sunday. For more information call or visit the website.

R.T. MORGAN ART GALLERY AND GLASS BY CAMILLE

120 N. Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 246-3328 www.rtmorgangallery.com Internationally renowned artist and gallery co-owner R.T. Morgan’s art is diverse, ranging from stainless steel sculptures and wall hangings for the outdoors to two to 12 feet interior works incorporating different materials and styles. Discovering a world of talent within herself, Camille is a self-taught artist who specializes in stained glass. She started off simply by creating sun catchers in her early years and now creates original door panels, window panels and three-dimensional stained glass wall hangings. The gallery is closed Wednesday and Sunday and its hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call for private viewing anytime.

STEPHEN SHOEMAKER GALLERY

113 S. Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson

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(336) 877-7642 www.stephenshoemaker.com Based out of West Jefferson, visitors to the Stephen Shoemaker Gallery will find giclée’s, lithographs, puzzles and original works for sale. Commissioned work is also available. Call the gallery or visit its website for more information.

Avery County 87 RUFFIN STREET GALLERY

87 Ruffin Street Gallery, Linville (828) 737-0420 www.business.averycounty.com/list The 87 Ruffin Street Gallery is located next to the Old Hampton Store, Barbeque and Tavern on Highway 221 in Lineville. 87 Ruffin Street is located in the original 1921 Hampton Residence

and features work from local potters, wood cutters, glass artists and painters. The gallery’s hours change with the seasons, so make sure to call ahead or visit the gallery’s website or Facebook page before visiting.

BE ARTIST GALLERY

The Historic Banner Elk School, 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk www.beartistgallery.com BE Artist Gallery is a cooperative of artists based out of Banner Elk who have come together to open a gallery of fine arts and crafts. Hours are 10 a.m to 4 p.m. on Tuesday through Saturdays. For up-to-date featured news on artists and displays visit the gallery’s website.

CARLTON GALLERY

10360 Hwy 105 S., Banner Elk (828) 963-4288 www.carltongallery.com The Carlton Gallery is located in the

heart of the Grandfather Mountain community, 8 miles from Blowing Rock, 10 miles south of Boone and 7 miles North of Linville and Banner Elk on Highway 105. Hours are 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11:30 a.m. — 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. For more information about gallery workshops, artists, exhibitions or special events call (828) 963-4288.

CLARK GALLERY

393 Shawneehaw Avenue S., Banner Elk (828) 898-2095 www.chrisclarkgallery.com As a painter, Chris Clark is sensitive to the needs of both artist and client alike. Representing fine art for over 15 years, Clark’s gallery features a wide range of American artists from both regional and national acclaim. Clark is also active with American auction houses and at times collects older works

that are not by artists represented in the gallery. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. — 5 p.m. and is closed Sunday and Monday. To learn more, visit the gallery’s website or Facebook page.

CROSSNORE FINE ARTS

205 Johnson Lane, Crossnore (828) 773-3144 www.crosnore.org/fine-arts-gallery The Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery represents regional painters, sculptors and fine crafts persons. A portion of all proceeds benefit the children of Crossnore School and Children’s Home. Gallery hours are from Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.

MAGGIE BLACK POTTERY

112 Clubhouse Drive, Hwy 105, Banner Elk (828) 773-2459 www.maggieblackpottery.com Maggie’s pottery has gained a passionate audience at galleries across the state and at juried craft and music festivals. For over 10 years she has taught in the ASU Craft enrichment program. Maggie Black Pottery can be found at the Shops at Mill Ridge on Highway 105 at Blowing Rock. Here she may be found throwing pots on her wheel in the back of the upstairs gallery, or downstairs, glazing and firing.

SALLY NOONEY GALLERY

7143 N.C.-194, Banner Elk (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com Sally Nooney Gallery offers a unique selection of glass sculptures to brighten up any garden and a beautiful selection of paintings to grace any home. Find Sally Nooney Gallery on Highway 194 midway between Banner Elk and Valle Crucis. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

STUDIO 140 AT SORRENTO’S

140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk (828) 898-5214 www.facebook.com/studio140

SEE GALLERIES ON PAGE 105

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Animals such as elk and wolves come to life in the paintings of Kent Paulette, which is one of the amazing artists featured in studio 140 at Sorrento’s. The gallery’s upstairs features Paulette’s paintings of dancing female figures and abstract mountain landscapes. The gallery also features live music from time to time and carries selections of pop art paintings of famous musicians. The gallery is opened Wednesday through Sunday from 5 — 10 p.m.

Watauga County ALTA VISTA GALLERY

2839 Broadstone Road, Valle Crucis (828) 963-5247 www.altavistagallery.com Specializing in mountain landscapes, the Alta Vista Gallery features more than 100 artists from a wide range of media. The gallery is constantly receiving new landscape painting by award winning-artists. View images of these paintings on the gallery’s Facebook page @AltaVistaGallery. Gallery hours are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except for Sundays, which are open by request.

ANVIL ARTS SCULPTURE GARDEN AND GALLERY

9600 Linville Falls Highway, Linville Falls (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com The gallery is open five days a week, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. — 5p.m. Visitors are invited to walk the grounds, sit under the trees and discover works inside the gallery. All works of art, both inside and outside the gallery are available for purchase. The art ranges from small works for interiors to large scale outdoor works.

ART CELLAR GALLERY

920 Shawneehaw Lane, Banner Elk (828) 898-5175 www.artcellaronline.com WINTER TIMES 2020

A longtime High Country favorite for fine art, the Art Cellar Gallery is located on Highway 184 in Banner Elk. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

BLOWING ROCK ART AND HISTORY MUSEUM

159 Ginny Stevens Lane, Blowing Rock (828) 295-9099 www.blowingrockmuseum.org The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is a hub of artistry and entertainment in the High Country. BRAHM offers annual membership and weekly and monthly events. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The museum is closed on Monday. See a full list of museum events online at www.blowingrockmuseum. org.

BLOWING ROCK FRAMEWORKS AND GALLERY

7539 Valley Blvd., Blowing Rock (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery has provided the highest quality fine art and framing for the High Country and the surrounding area for more than 25 years. Tim Miller founded the shop in 1994 and pursued furthering his education in the art of framing by gaining the accolades of Certified Picture Framer and Guild Commended Framer. The gallery represents numerous wellknown local and contemporary artists. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be found on Facebook and instagram under the handle @brameworks. For any questions call (828) 295-0041.

BLUE RIDGE ARTSPACE

377 Shadowline Drive (828) 264-1789 www.watauga-arts.com Home to the Watauga Arts Council, The Blue Ridge ArtSpace has four galleries all featuring work from local artists. Many works on display are SEE GALLERIES ON PAGE 106

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available for purchase. To learn more about current or upcoming events, visit the gallery’s website at www. watauga-arts.com. For more information regarding hours, contact the Blue Ridge ArtSpace at (828) 264-1789 or visit their website.

BOLICK AND TRADITIONS POTTERY

1155 Main Street, Blowing Rock (828) 295-6128 www.bolickandtraditionspottery. com Bolick Pottery and Traditions Pottery located in downtown Blowing Rock features pottery from Bolick, Traditions and Original Owens Pottery. The gallery also carries a wide selection of gifts from Natural Life, Demdaco, P Graham Dunn and Savannah Bee Company. As well as, handmade soaps, lotions and candles. The store hosts two wood kiln openings and various other events throughout the year. The gallery’s hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

CROWN GALLERY

1153 Main Street, Blowing Rock 106

(828) 818-0008 www.crowngalleryusa.com Crown Gallery features an ever changing collection of fine art by local, regional and nationally renowned artists. Gallery owners James Selby Rue, and Carolyn Crocker-Rue, bring several years of combined experience in the field of art to their role as curators of original art by an exceptional roster of mid-career professionals.

DOE RIDGE POTTERY

585 W. King Street #D, Boone www.doeridgepottery.homestead. com Doe Ridge Pottery Gallery is the home of Master Craftsman Bob Meier, as well as a selection of other fine potters from around the High Country. Each artist featured at Doe Ridge pottery brings their own unique personality and creative gifting to their art of ceramics. The artist specialize in creating high quality pieces of pottery that are both decorative and functional.

HANDS GALLERY

543 W. King Street, Boone (828) 262-1970 www.handsgallery.com Hands Gallery has been open for 46 years and carries a fine array of fiber, baskets, jewelry, pottery, photos, gourds, woodblock prints, soaps, mosaics, stained glass, wrought iron, wooden

bowls, furniture and other handcrafted items. Hands Gallery is open everyday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All members of Hands Gallery live within 50 miles of the shop, and the gallery has consignment from other parts of the state.

JONES HOUSE COMMUNITY CENTER

604 W. King Street, Boone (828) 268-6280 www.joneshouse.org Each month, the Mazie Jones Gallery showcases the works of new artists or organizations and is featured in the First Friday Art Crawl reception. The Jones House galleries are open from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. For more information about the Jones House Gallery’s galleries or schedule of events, visit www. joneshouse.org.

MARTIN HOUSE GALLERY

1098 Main Street, Blowing Rock (336) 508-2828 www.martinhousegallery.com Located in the heart of downtown Blowing Rock, The Historic Martin House Gallery has been exhibiting work from some of the High Country’s most established and talented artists for more than 30 years. The gallery offers free delivery and

installation, as well as after hour showings. To stay up to date about the gallery’s available work and featured artists visit www.martinhousegallery. com or find the gallery on Facebook.

NTH DEGREE GALLERY

683 W. King Street, Boone (828) 919-6919 www.nthdegreegallery.com The Nthº Gallery & Studios is a not-for-profit, member and donation supported art venue in Boone, N.C., which features monthly exhibitions of local and regional contemporary and emerging artists. The gallery’s season spans the entire year with shows taking place the first Friday of every month.

TURCHIN CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

423 W. King Street, Boone (828) 262-3017 www.tcva.org The Turchin Center, located on King Street in Boone, features a handful of galleries which display changing contemporary art exhibitions throughout the year. The gallery is free and opened to the public. Hours are from 10 a.m to 6 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday, and noon to 8 p.m. on Friday. For more information regarding programs and exhibition visit www.tcva.org. WINTER TIMES 2020

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.

Famous frescoes in the High Country BY IAN TAYLOR

rescoes are a unique art form that dates back thousands of years, and they hold up to the test of time. The artist will use watercolor paints to create the work on wet plaster, usually on walls

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or ceilings. When the plaster dries, the pigment is chemically bonded and can last for centuries. Ancient Egyptians to Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo and Raphael have painted thousands of examples throughout history. Notable examples include

the ceiling and walls of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, Sigiriya in Sri Lanka and the 20th Century Mexican Muralism movement. Contemporary examples of the art can be found in the High Country. Inside the sanctuar-

ies 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, an 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 the 1970s, Long first gave Ashe County a long-lasting work of art 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 SEE FRESCOES ON PAGE 108

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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. Holy Trinity Episcopal Church hosts the annual Festival of the Frescoes in the Fall, which raises money for various out-

reach programs. At the same time, the festival is a great way for someone to be introduced to the religious artworks and learn more about the traditional medium. Long also painted a fresco titled “Suffer the Little Children” in Avery County’s Sloop Chapel, located at the Crossnore School. The frescoes Long brought to the High Country have since gone on to become well-known tourist destinations, with many visitors flocking to peruse the painted plaster. Long went on to become a well-decorated artist, doing works for Bank of America, the City

of Charlotte and multiple schools. Some of his many achievements are listed online, along with information about his current artistic endeavors, at www.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.

PHOTO BY BEN COGSDALE The first fresco artist Ben Long painted in Ashe County was titled, ‘Mary Great with Child.’

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. 108

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Area museums find creative ways to keep art accessible

BY KAYLA LASURE

s the High Country experiences colder weather during the next few months, families have the opportunity to take advantage of resources offered by area museums to keep themselves occupied. The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum and the Turchin Center for Visual Arts in Boone are two local free museums that people can access for family fun.

BLOWING ROCK ART AND HISTORY MUSEUM

Celebrating its 10 year anniversary in 2021, BRAHM was founded to serve as both an art and history museum as a public-private partnership with the town of Blowing Rock, according to Executive Director Lee Carol Giduz. The museum specifically focuses on American art as well as history of the southern Appalachian region with its three rotating galleries and two to four permanent spaces. The exception to offering art outside of the country is when the pieces have a local con110

PHOTO BY ABBY WHITT This brass statue of Elliot Daingerfield painting plein air stands one the lawn of the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum on Ginny Stevens Lane in Blowing Rock.

nection, Giduz said. “With history, we stay very local,” Giduz said. “It’s important to tell the local story (of) the region. People come here because they’re interested in the region.” BRAHM is welcoming visitors in person to the museum as well as has adapted some of its servic-

es for online guests. Giduz said the museum requests visitors to wear masks and remain socially distant due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that BRAHM hasn’t had to limit the amount of people in the museum as the facility offers large gallery spaces. The museum is offering an exhibit called the

“Small and Mighty Acts Altar for Black Lives” from Nov. 7 to March 27, 2021. The exhibit features pieces offered to an altar by community members during mid-2020 and other pieces for those “Black lives lost to antiBlack racism,” according to BRAHM. Giduz said the mu-

seum is also offering an exhibition from Nov. 14 through March 6, 2021, showcasing Qualla art and artifacts. According to BRAHM, Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, Inc. is the oldest Native American artists’ cooperative in the U.S. as it was founded in 1946 in Cherokee, North Carolina. The exhibition

tells the story of Qualla’s founding and development through text, objects, photographs, artwork and videos featuring many of the cooperative’s artist members. Visitors will experience the innovation of Cherokee artisans, with sixty-six objects on display ranging from archeological artifacts to contemporary crafts, the museum stated. The “Drawing from Life” exhibition featuring work from Ben Long and Tony Griffin will be shown at the museum from Nov. 21 to March 20, 2021. Giduz said this exhibit has a strong regional appeal, as the two lifelong-friends are established painters in North Carolina. Both men have lived and worked in Blowing Rock. Long is best known for his large scale fresco work, and Griffin is an established painter and illustrator of people and landscapes, according to BRAHM. This exhibition explores the duo’s ties to the Blowing Rock area, and their figurative and portrait drawings. Honoring what a local agency has contributed to the region, the “Blue SEE MUSEUMS ON PAGE 112

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MUSEUMS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 110

Ridge Conservancy: Place Matters” exhibition is offered from Dec. 12 through April 10, 2021. The exhibition highlights the history of land conservation in the High Country and explores Blue Ridge Conservancy’s mission of protecting the places that matter most to area communities, according to BRAHM. The museum stated that the Blue Ridge Conservancy has permanently protected 22,000 acres of land in the seven northwest counties of North Carolina. The museum also offers its ongoing exhibit on the history of Blowing Rock and works from a permanent collection. BRAHM isn’t able to offer on site programming as it would typically, but is offering a “robust” series of online programming via its website called BRAHM at Home, Giduz said. BRAHM at Home offers classes for children, lectures, presentations and discussions that are prefilmed. Giduz added that the museum doesn’t have any in-person programs scheduled in the near future, but hope to reassess doing so in the coming months. The museum plans to continue offering online services even once workshops are offered in person. BRAHM includes an attached garage and is handicap accessible. Museum hours have been reduced due to COVID-19, with BRAHM open 11 a.m.4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. The museum will be closed Christmas Day. For more information about BRAHM, visit www. blowingrockmuseum.org.

THE TURCHIN CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

Associated with Appalachian State University, the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts has six galleries rotating exhibitions — offering about 12 exhibitions a year, according to the Director of Marketing Lynn Rees-Jones. The Turchin Center features the art of regional, national and international artists. While the museum is closed to in-person visits to the public for the remainder of 2020, museum officials hope to poten112

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE Jasmine McFayden (right) and Tony Dienst observe the ‘Terra Ludis: Play Ground’ during a previous exhibit at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.

tially open at the beginning of 2021. “While our physical facilities are closed, we’ve really ramped up our online offerings and we have thought a lot about how we can still make the arts accessible to everybody,” Rees-Jones said. The Turchin Center has created a “learning” tab on its website where guests can find interactive PDFs called “connections: exhibit guides.” The exhibit guides take a deep dive into the exhibitions with information about the artist, exhibition, other works they’ve created as well as an educational arts activity related to the artist’s work that can be done at home. To access exhibition guides, visit tcva.org/learn/foreveryone. “We can’t wait to reopen and see everybody. We’ve missed all of our visitors,” Giduz said. “We’ll see you again soon.” The Turchin Center has three exhibitions that will be offered through Feb. 6, 2021. One of which is “Cantar De Ciegos/ Songs of the Blind,” featuring work by Esperanza Cortes — a Colombian born contemporary multidisciplinary artist based in New York City. The museum quoted Cortes as saying, “As a multidisciplinary artist, I create sculptures, installations, reliefs, works on paper and sitespecific outdoor interventions. I use my work to encourage viewers to reconsider social and historical narratives especially

PHOTO SUBMITTED Outside the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts is a stair mural titled ‘Transit Candy’ by Jessie Unterhalter and Katey Truhn.

when dealing with Colonialism, and raises critical questions about the politics of erasure and exclusion.” The second exhibition offered through Feb. 6 is “Rain at the River” by painter Jacklyn St. Aubyn. The museum stated St. Aubyn creates a space in which things aren’t what they appear to be, and first perceptions may be misleading. St. Aubyn stated that memories and experi-

ences embodied in objects are the subject matter of her still lives, according to the Turchin Center. “Afterimage Anxiety” by Joshua Rose will be showcased during the same time period — who lives with St. Aubyn, according to the Turchin Center. The work Rose has pursued for the past few years reflects two ideas: a mining and reinventing of the past forty years of his visual work, and deriving from combined images that he has made during the past 35 to 50 years. The Turchin Center has two exhibits running from Dec. 4 to May 1.“Refugium” by paper artist Christina Laurel will be featured during that time. This exhibit will feature installations and two-dimensional art with a Japanese aesthetic. Also being offered during that time is “Longing for Amelia — The Historical and Mythological Landscape.” This exhibit by Matthew Arnold features a photographic project documenting the environs that play host to the many theories attempting to resolve the mystery of Amelia Earhart’s disappearance. The museum’s Rosen Sculpture Competition and Exhibition showcases pieces selected from a national juried competition. The collection showcases nine outdoor sculptures through May 31. Additionally, the museum is offering virtual tours of the exhibit spaces through the “Turchin Center for the Visual Arts” Youtube channel. For each exhibition, a video walks guests through the gallery. The museum’s Youtube channel has also offered some behind the scenes-type videos for patrons. The Turchin Center has offered its ARTtalk series — traditionally held in person — via Zoom and other virtual platforms in fall 2020. To see the schedule for virtual ARTtalks, visit tcva.org/ calendar. The museum has also offered workshops online, which will start back up in January, Rees-Jones said. Online workshops are being offered for free. To view cataloged visual journaling prompts and Blazing Easels classes (for 7-12 year olds), visit the Turchin’s Center’s #tcbaathome webpage at tcva.org/ learn/tcvaathome. WINTER TIMES 2020

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Cold beer for the cold winter of founder Gary Brown’s favorite guitarists. For more information, you can go to their website, www.boondocksbeer.com, call (336) 246-5222 or stop by either location on North Jefferson Avenue in West Jefferson.

BY IAN TAYLOR

inter makes everything cold. Cold cars and hands might be a discomfort, but the good news is the winter helps keep beer cold. The High Country is full of locallyowned, craft breweries that can keep your fridge stocked while you’re snowed in, while also giving you a place to go when the roads are safe.

BOONESHINE BREWING COMPANY

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN BREWERY

Boone isn’t Boone without Appalachian Mountain Brewery. More commonly known as AMB, the home of more than 100 beers and ciders is a cultural staple in the college town. Their numerous beverage options include the famous Boone Creek Blonde, Porter and the Spoaty-Oaty as flagship year-round brews. They also have some seasonal beers on tap such as the C.R.E.A.M. coffee and doughnut infused milk stout, which is a collaboration with fellow Boone staple Local Lion. If you’re more of a cider person, their Mystic Dragon Cider is an applebased cider infused with green tea, rhubarb and strawberries. AMB also has events every week including open mic nights, fundraisers 114

PHOTO BY IAN TAYLOR The brewing tanks at the Boondocks Brew Haus in West Jefferson.

and charitable endeavors. For more information, you can go to their website, amb.beer, or call (828) 263-1111.

BLOWING ROCK BREWING

In its 13 years of brewing, Blowing Rock Brewing has stuck to its core values of capturing the finest qualities of the High Country and sustainability. The Midnight Raspberry Wheat is brewed with dark, roasted wheat

and fermented while the Red Rider is malt driven and deep amber-red in color, with moderate hop intensity. Both are some of the seven of their brews to win medals at the Carolina Championship 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.

BOONDOCK 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

Founded in 2015 by two friends who like beer, Booneshine is known for limited runs and beers that get the job done. Booneshine specializes in unique and fun brews, such as the Hatchet Coffee Porter, a collaboration with the Hatchet Coffee company in Boone, the Trail Mojo is a double IPA that honors the spirit of local hikers and outdoor enthusiasts and the Nuclear Seahorse, a New England style pale ale with three different hops. The brewery opened a new location in 2019, doubling as a restaurant serving delicious food to pair with delicious beer. For more information, you can go to their website, booneshine.beer, call (828) 386-4066 or stop by 465 Industrial Park Drive in Boone.

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 KETTELL BEERWORKS drink and want a bite The Banner Elk breware covered. In the Brew ers feature three tiers of Haus, visitors can see alcohol by volume and a the tanks used to brew few seasonal beers. The their new favorite beers, each named after some SEE BREWERIES ON PAGE 115 WINTER TIMES 2020

BREWERIES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

www.flattopbrew.com

(828) 414-9600 blowingrockbrewing.com

Appalachian Mountain Brewery Boone 163 Boone Creek Drive (828) 263-1111 amb.beer

Booneshine Brewing Company Boone 465 Industrial Park Drive (828) 386-4066 booneshine.beer

Beech Mountain Brewing Company Beech Mountain 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy. (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com/mountain/brewery

Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant West Jefferson 108 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-5222 www.boondocksbeer.com

Blowing Rock Brewing Company Blowing Rock 152 Sunset Drive

Flat Top Brewing Company Banner Elk 567 Main St. East (828) 898-8677

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

BREWERIES

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.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 114

variety allows for new drinkers to find their niche, or challenge themselves to go higher. Their Vonderbier is a contemporary Munich style lager with a color resembling a Fall leaf, the Speak Easy carries a whopping 10 percent ABV along with its bourbon barrel aged Baltic porter flavors and their Alpine Rush beer is a seasonal brew with complex layers of caramel and malty roast. Sit down at their location for a good time filled with food, friends and beer. For more information, you can go online to their website, www.kettellbeerworks.com, call (828) 898-8677 or head over to 567 Main Street East in Banner Elk.

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 Kiss My Grits is a “Southern-style” lager brewed with yellow corn grits, Life Without Air is a refreshing saison and the Fire On the Mountain is an amber ale brewed with fresh and fire-roasted jalapeños. You can also grab a bite to pair with your beer, with wood-fired pizzas, meat

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NEW RIVER BREWING

PHOTO BY IAN TAYLOR New River Brewing in West Jefferson is not only a local favorite brewer, but a full restaurant.

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. 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 ingredients that they get from local farmers

Founded by the father-and-son team of Greg and Adam Hershner, the Lansing-based brewery quickly became a staple in restaurants and stores in the area. Now in West Jefferson, the brewery has expanded to a whole restaurant, with food to compliment their beer. Some of their beers include the Tipsy Kilt, with flavors of toffee, vanilla and dark fruit which spent over 200 days in a bourbon barrel for maximum flavor, their Rye R Squared, an ampedup version of a traditional English barley wine and the Hopsessive Compulsive which combines fruity notes with a bitter backbone. Outside of their own building, 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 (336) 846-2739. 115

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Wines for the winter in the High Country D BY IAN TAYLOR

rinking a glass of wine can be a great way to unwind at the end of the day while also opening the door to culture and class like no other beverage. 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. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. 118

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRANDFATHER VINEYARDS Grandfather Vineyard is a great place to try new wines and enjoy the winter.

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, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s re-

quested to call 48 hours in advance. For more information on Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, visit www.grandfathervineyard.com.

SEE WINES ON PAGE 120

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WINES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 118

LINVILLE FALLS WINERY

Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Linville Falls Winery offers a space for weddings, private events, classes and 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.

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 the Bourgeron, easydrinking 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 120

WINERIES OF THE HIGH COUNTRY

(828) 963-2400 grandfathervineyard.com

Banner Elk Winery and Villa Banner Elk 60 Deer Run Lane (828) 898-9090 bannerelkwinery.com

Linville Falls Winery Linville Fallse 9557 Linville Falls Highway (828) 765-1400 linvillefallswinery.com

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery Banner Elk 225 Vineyard Lane

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

Meadow Winery, visit www.thistlemeadowwinery.com.

MENARICK VINEYARD & WINERY 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 blackberry 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.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRANDFATHER VINEYARDS A glass of wine can pair well with food and the weather. WINTER TIMES 2020

A High Country spa

EXPERIENCE

BY DEREK HALSEY

f there is one thing worth saving for, or a gift that will surely get a positive response, it is the concept of being spoiled by a total spa experience. Yes, a significant other can draw you a bath, pour you a glass of champagne or give you a back rub — and that is romantic, unselfish and sweet. But, when you experience such wonderful things done to you by experts at an acclaimed spa, that is when the movie star treatment truly makes one feel spoiled. The spa experience is separated into two divisions — the day spa and the destination spa. While many destination spas offer daytime experiences as well, many also provide the total package of hotel rooms and fine dining. Here in the High Country, we are blessed with multiple spas that will cater to your every need.

DESTINATION SPAS

One facility in the High Country is the Westglow Resort and Spa located at 224 Westglow Circle in Blowing Rock. Sitting

WINTER TIMES 2020

PHOTO SUBMITTED If there is one thing worth saving for, or a gift that will surely get a positive response, it is the concept of being spoiled by a total spa experience.

on 42 mountaintop acres and offering up six luxury lodging properties, it is all centered on the Greek Revival Mansion that is on the register of historic places. Westglow Resort and

Spa offers various packages that include Vichy Rain Therapy, facials, skin renewal treatments, mountain body detox mud sessions, grapefruit salt scrubs and head to toe body oil rubs. The

Metamorphosis package, for instance, offers up, “A cocoon-to-butterfly transformation of mind, body and soul.” There is a wide variety of massages to choose from including the basic

body massage, the deep tissue massage, the aromatherapy massage, the couples massage or the Grandfather Stone therapy massage. More information can be found at westglowre-

sortandspa.com. The Chetola Resort in downtown Blowing Rock also contains a spa on the grounds. Offering up massage therapies, SEE SPA ON PAGE 122

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High Country gifts and giving BY DEREK HALSEY

s the holiday season rolls in, even in these times of pandemic, unique gift ideas are always sought out. There are plenty of places to shop in the High Country while keeping the current protective norms in mind. While we are blessed not to have major cities in our midst, we do have wonderful small downtown areas where you can walk around and enjoy shopping, good eating and activities. Blowing Rock is known for its convenient downtown area with many stores to choose from and explore. Interspersed

PHOTO BY DEREK HALSEY Mast General Store offers a variety of goods from fashion to fried chicken cookbooks, and toffee to tents.

with stores such as High Country Candles, where you can watch them make their wonderful

SPA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 121

facials, nail treatments, cosmetic applications and more in five treatment rooms, the spa also features a relaxation room, a nail treatment area, a hair salon, the Swan Bar with its complimentary teas, coffees, and in-house granola. Prosecco and spa lunches are also available. More information can be found at chetola.com/spa/. The Spa at Crestwood is a part of the Inn at Crestwood located at 3236 Shulls Mill Road near Boone. A facility that also features a hotel, a fine dining restaurant and a space for weddings; it sits on top of a mountain ridge near the Blue Ridge Parkway that is known for 122

creations right in from of you at 1098 Main Street. There are plenty of restaurants scattered

its sunsets. The Spa at Crestwood features a pool set up for vigorous exercise along with packages that include deluxe facials, Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy massage, craniosacral massage, lymphatic drainage massage, stress relieving massage, reflexology massage and hot stone massage. More information can be found at crestwoodnc.com. Further outside of Boone and higher up in elevation is the Spa at Eseeola. Located at 34 Dogwood Street in Linville, on the southern slope of Grandfather Mountain, the facility features Swedish massage, integrative massage, therapeutic massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, facials, body treatments, a nail salon, manicures and pedicures, restorative foot therapy and neck and shoulder renewal.

throughout the Blowing Rock shopping establishments, all within easy walking distance.

Downtown Boone is also a fabulous place to walk around and explore the various distinctive stores and restaurants and bars. One night to key on is First Fridays of the month as the walking trail is fun. Boone also hosts various outdoor celebrations as Christmas gets closer. Another great idea is to seek out the various art galleries in Boone. One fun and cheap way to find local art and to acquire prints for a low price is to seek out the various Curio Art Vending Machines. Found in places such as the Tapp Room, Espresso News, Black Cat Burritos and Holistic Health Solutions in Boone, the Curio folks use old vending

machines to deliver great prints by local artists. Other places to find cool goods include the wonderfully refurbished downtown area in West Jefferson in nearby Ashe County. And, on Rte. 105 in-between Boone and Banner Elk, including Rt. 184 that goes into Banner Elk, there is an array of antique shops to choose from as well as ski shops that sell cool winter gear to supplement the ski experience at the High Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three big resorts. In between Boone and Banner Elk there is the beautiful valley known as Valle Crucis marked by the Watauga River. SEE GIFTS ON PAGE 124

DAY SPAS

Heavenly Touch Day Spa 246-D Wilson Drive, Boone For more information, call (828) 264-4335 or visit heavenlytouchboone.com. 7th Heaven Day Spa 4457 N.C. 105 South, Boone For more information, call (828) 963-2355 or visit 7thheaven.vpweb.com. Serenity Day Spa 72 Arnett Road, Banner Elk For more information, call (828) 898-3550, email cashbaugh@charter.net or visit relaxatserenity.com. Lavender Fields Skin Care and Laser Spa 820-C State Farm Road, Boone For more information, call (828) 265-1029 or visit www.lavenderfieldssalon.com. Natural Healing Day Spa 9649 HWY 105 South, Banner Elk For more information, call (828) 898-8400 or visit naturalhealingdayspa.com. WINTER TIMES 2020

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ASHE COUNTY CHEESE Ashe County Cheese prepares to place some of its cheese into wheels.

There, at 3565 Hwy. 194 S., Sugar Grove, is the original Mast General Store. A wonderful trip back into time, this store was first opened in the 1800s. Today, it still features a lot of the same goods, candies and sundry items that it has sold for over a century. Just down the road is the Mast Store Outlet, where many deals can be found especially on winter clothing items. The sister Mast General Store can be found in Boone on King Street where it is an anchor of the downtown area. The usual shopping options are also available in the High Country including the Boone Mall, located at 1180 Blowing Rock Road, and the Tanger Outlet Mall located at 278 Shopped on the Parkway Road, suite 33, Blowing Rock. If you are a cheese lover, there is plenty of good local cheese made here in the High Country to choose from, taste and purchase. Ashe County Cheese makes its home-spun brand in West Jefferson. On the other end of the High Country ,near natural attractions Linville Falls,

Linville Gorge and Linville Caverns, there is the English Farmstead Cheese Shop found at 19456 Rte. 221, Marion. This dairy farm has been in the same family for six generations and it has been designated a Century Family Farm by the N.C. Department of Agriculture. Known for the cheddar and more, the home farm store is only open on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. English Farmstead Cheese, which can also be found at Maw’s Produce found at 7918 NC-105 in Boone, is a part of the Western North Carolina Cheese Trail (wnccheesetrail. org). When it comes to the holiday season, of course, Western North Carolina stands out as it is the source of 20 percent of our nation’s live Christmas trees. The Frasier Fir, which can only grow at certain altitudes, is the tree of choice. It is a treat and a real adventure for the family, couples, students and more to make the decision to drive up into the mountains and choose-and-cut your own Christmas tree (https://ncchristmastrees.com/) while exploring our various small town downtown areas for shopping, great food, skiing and outdoor sports and good times.

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PHOTO BY DEREK HALSEY English Farmstead Cheese Shop has been in one family for six generations. WINTER TIMES 2020

High Country provides centerpiece of the Christmas season Local choose-and-cut farms are one of the region’s most popular attractions BY BAILEY LITTLE

he mountains of Western North Carolina offer plenty of seasonal attractions and opportunities for adventure. One of the most popular industries in the area is Christmas tree farms. While traveling on many on both highways and backroads in the High Country, rows of Christmas trees can be seen lining the sprawling hills. According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, the state is home to approximately 1,300 growers who produce Fraser fir Christmas trees on an estimated 40,000 acres. Fraser fir, which is native to the Appalachian Mountains of the Southeasern U.S. represents more than 99.4 percent of all species grown in North Carolina. According to Watauga Cooperative Extension Director Dr. Jim Hamilton, historically the Christmas tree industry in the High Country began at the scale it has grown into in Avery County. “I think Avery County can claim the first estab-

WINTER TIMES 2020

FILE PHOTO Fraser fir Christmas trees line up at the Sexton Farm in Ashe County.

lished farms,” Hamilton said. These premier farms were started by entrepreneurial farmers who brought wild harvested seedlings from Roan Mountain, Tenn., and planted them on newly cleared or abandoned fields. “As neighbors and friends and associates saw that Christmas trees could be grown on their

fields, it sort of spread,” Hamilton said. As Christmas tree production became more widespread, growers worked with what was known at the time as the Agricultural Extension Service to help them improve the quality of trees and help with any diseases or pests. According to Hamilton, in the early 2000s, the area experienced a

boom in Christmas tree production. However, the housing crisis in 2008 presented a major challenge to the industry. “After the recession, some growers either aged out of the industry or got out due to profitability,” Hamilton said. “You still see about the same acreage of trees planted in the High Country but fewer growers, because it is such a labor-intensive

industry and farming in general has declined over the last decade.” Also during the recession with some growers leaving the industry, the seedling industry also suffered. According to Hamilton, it takes anywhere from four to five years to prepare a seedling to be transplanted into a field. Once planted, the tree grows in the field for a minimum of

six to seven years before it reaches a harvestable size. Within the industry, some farmers sell wholesale Christmas trees which they sell to small mom and pop roadside Christmas tree retailers in urban areas that to established Christmas tree lots in cities. Other SEE CENTERPIECE ON PAGE 126

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CENTERPIECE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 125

farmers simply grow trees to sell to wholesale tree retailers. According to Hamilton, trees produced in the High Country are shipped to every state in the U.S. as well as overseas. Choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms have increased in popularity since the late 1980s in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties. “At one point in time, from the early 2000s through the recession, here in Watauga we had over 35 chooseand-cut farms,” Hamilton said. “That number has dwindled to around 12, simply due to the fact that Christmas tree farming is hard work and a lot of the farmers who started 20 or 30 years ago are retiring.” Choose-and-cut season capitalizes on the family experience and the creation of memories by letting families come out to a farm and pick their own tree from the field while interacting with farmers. Due to COVID-19, growers are taking safety precautions at farms. According to Hamilton, the extension office has provided several thousand masks and cases of hand sanitizer to the farms in preparation for harvest season. “The experience might be a little different because group events like hayrides and serve-yourself hot chocolate and other things that have an inherent safety risk may not be available on the farms as they have been in previous years,” Hamilton said. He recommends planning visits during “off” times, when farms are not anticipated to be as busy or crowded. According to Hamilton, the busiest dates are the week of Thanksgiving. The weekend before and the weekend after the holiday also tend to be hectic each year. “Take the crowds and timing into consideration when you are planning your visit,” Hamilton said. He suggests contacting farms ahead 126

FILE PHOTO Employees of Frosty’s Choose-n-Cut, located in Ashe County, load customers’ Christmas trees into a baler.

FILE PHOTO Christmas trees provide the centerpiece for many families during the Christmas season. However, they are a year-long investment for those who farm and cultivate them.

of time or checking their website for scheduling information, as some farms are open during the week while others

are not. “Take the crowds and timing into consideration when you are planning your visit,” Hamilton said. He added that they expect this season to be exceptionally busy because people are anxious to participate in outdoor activities since they are deemed safer during the pandemic. “The growers have definitely taken precautions into consideration to provide the safest visit possible,” Hamilton said. Some farms are providing call-in and pickup services where they pre-select and cut trees for customers a day or two prior to pickup. Those interested in this service can call farms ahead of time to see if this is an available option. According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, individual Christmas tree growers may sell anywhere from a few dozen trees per year

to hundreds of thousands of trees per year. The North Carolina Christmas tree industry is also ranked second in the nation in number of trees harvested and cash receipts. For more information about the history of Christmas tree production in North Carolina and more information about the industry, visit NCCTA website at ncchristmastrees.com. For county-specific information about Christmas tree farms, refer to the following contact information: • Watauga County Christmas Tree Association, www.wataugachristmastrees.org, (828) 264-306 • Ashe County Christmas Tree Association, www.ashecountychristmastrees.com, (336) 846-5850 • Avery County Christmas Tree Association, www.pickyourownchristmastree.org/NCxmaswest-Avery.php, (828) 733-6083 WINTER TIMES 2020

CHOOSE-AND-CUT FARMS Watauga County

davisnc@skybest.com

Bear Wallow Choose & Cut 406 Long Ridge Farms Road, Sugar Grove NC 828-773-7158, 828-773-2238 or 828-297-4373 bearwallowchooseandcut@gmail.com

Frosty’s Choose & Cut 2152 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (800) 238-8733 frosty@gofrostys.com gofrostys.com

Bluestone Greenery 1230 Howard Edmisten Road, Sugar Grove, NC (828) 297-5377 info@bluestonegreenery.com www.bluestonegreenery.com

Ivy Point Farm 1789 Beaver Creek School Rd, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-2470 jcbarlow@skybest.com

C & J Christmas Trees 1999 Brookshire Road, Boone, NC (828) 263-3591, (828) 200-9309 www.candjchristmastrees.com

Lil’ Grandfather Choose & Cut 15371 NC Hwy 18 South, Laurel Springs, NC 28644 (336) 372-9613 info@lilgrand.com lilgrand.com

Circle C Tree Farms 372 Will Cook Road, Boone, NC (828) 265-7504, (828) 773-4026 circlectrees@gmail.com www.circlectreefarms.com

Long’s Choose & Cut 8306 Hwy 16 South, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-5261 info@longstreefarm.com longstreefarm.com

Clawson’s Choose & Cut 4944 Highway 194 North, Boone, NC (828) 719-6395, (828) 262-3836

Lyall’s Nursery 238 Mountain Valley Drive, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 977-0067 lyallstrees@skybest.com lyallstrees.com

Panoramic View Christmas Tree Farm 368 Panoramic Lane, Boone, NC (828) 719-6395, (828) 262-3836 panoramictreefarm@yahoo.com www.panoramictreefarm.com Poplar Grove Choose and Cut 1944 Poplar Grove Road S., Boone, NC (828) 387-0132, (828) 406-0415 grahamferrell@yahoo.com www.ferrellmw.wixsite.com/trees RRR Laurel Knob 1029 Rainbow Trail, Boone, NC 28607 828-963-3477 828-264-6488 RRRlaurelknobtreefarm@gmail.com RRRtreefarm.com

Mistletoe Meadows 583 Burnt Hill Road, Laurel Springs, NC 28644 (336) 465-9754 mistletoem@skybest.com mistletoemeadows.com Wayland’s Nursery 1003 Round Knob Ridge Road, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-7729 wecox50@skybest.com Westend Wreaths 5983 194N, Warrensville, NC 28693 (336) 384-4440 sales@westendwreaths.com westendwreaths.com

Swinging Bridge Farm 711 Old Glade Road, Deep Gap, NC (828) 964-2030, (828) 264-5738 cblieberman@yahoo.com www.swingingbridgefarm.com

Avery County A White Christmas 1097 Davenport Road, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 765-8629

Walker Farm 511 Hodges Gap Road, Boone, NC (828) 264-0931

Babe Clarks Sugar Grove Nursery 294 Everett Clark Rd, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-5272, (828) 387-1140 kayla_clark18@hotmail.com

Ashe County Davis Tree Farm 1620 Piney Creek Road Lansing, NC 28643 (336) 384-3388

Carter Christmas Tree Farm 901 Balsam Drive Mtn Glen Golf Club, Newland, NC 28657. (828) 733-1641 orders@carolinafraserfir.com

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Christa’s and Sam’s Nursery Hwy 181, Pineola, NC 28657 (828) 733-3353 christas@copper.com David Pittmans Farm 986 Licklog Road, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 295-2545, (828) 387-1734 davpit17@gmail.com Elk River Evergreens 299 Tower Road, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-9606 mikepannec@bellsouth.net Franklin Tree Farm PO Box 33, Linville Falls, NC 28647 (828) 765-2518 Ginger Hollow Nursery 51 Ed Clark Lane, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-3366 Haw Mountain Nursery 310 Bartlett Farmer Road, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-9298 McDaniel Tree Farms 900 Grandview Lane, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-1554, (828) 733-4495. Mountain View Nursery 480 Lick Log Road, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-2189 wmhorney@netzero.com River Tree Farm PO Box 124 or 676 Old Turnpike Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-5762 Sugar Grove Nursery 294 Everett Clark Road, Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-5272, (828) 387-1140 Sugar Plum Farm 1263 Isaacs Branch Road, Plum Tree, NC 28664 (828) 765-0019, (888) 257-0019 Three Oaks Ltd. 7569 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-2662 Tommy Trees 351 Johnson Lane, Crossnore, NC 28616 (828) 733-9161 tommytrees3@yahoo.com Twin Pines Nursery 87 Twin Pine Lane, Pineola, NC 28662 (828) 733-0776

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Shop uniquely with High Country general stores

advantage of its 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.

BY IAN TAYLOR

lmost since people first settled in the High Country, general stores have served as the hub of the mountain towns in the area. While they may not hold the same purpose, general stores are excellent stops while traversing the roads. Mast General Store, Fred’s General Mercantile, Todd General Store and Banner Elk Consignment Cottage are just some of the unique stores that tourists and locals alike flock to in the High Country.

BANNER ELK CONSIGNMENT COTTAGE

Banner Elk, a town of woolly worms, Highland Games and High Country culture, is home to the Banner Elk Consignment Cottage. Just 17 miles from Boone, the 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 four-to-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. 128

TODD GENERAL STORE

FILE PHOTO More than 100 years old, the Todd General Store is an icon of the mountain community it calls home.

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.

FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE

For more than 40 years, Fred’s General Mercantile has been a staple of Beech Mountain and the main outlet in the area.

PHOTO SUBMITTED The Mast General Store has a massive variety of olde-time and new-age provisions.

The main store consists of a grocery store, hard-

ware store and clothing store. Fred’s can outfit

the entire family for a weekend vacation, home improvement project and more. 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 www.fredsgeneral. com. Also on the property is Fred’s Backside Deli, which serves all kinds of food on a daily basis for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The company also takes

The Todd General Store opened in 1914, being the go-to place for everything in the small, mountain community on the border of Ashe and Watauga counties. Its doors closed in 2015, but has been reopened with a new life courtesy of Matthew Connell and his wife, Andrea. When it reopened, Connell said the couple loved what general stores stood for, what they provide and what they mean to communities. There is still work to be done with the store, even if it is open and operating. Connell said he wants to add in more food options and bring it back to the place you can go for everything. Tapping into the arts the surrounding areas are known for producing, he wants to add in a pottery studio and give local potters a place for their imagination run wild. With Todd’s location on the New River and the sur-

SEE STORES ON PAGE 129

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STORES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 128

CONTACT INFORMATION Here’s how to contact and learn more about the various general stores in the High Country:

rounding sights that are worth seeing, it is not a bad idea to stop in, learn some of the history and get what you need.

MAST GENERAL STORE

An icon among general stores, 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 offers 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 everything else you can think of, according to www.

WINTER TIMES 2020

www.mastgeneralstore.com Mast Store Annex 2918 Broadstone Road / N.C. 194, Valle Crucis (828) 963-6511 www.mastgeneralstore.com

Molly Northern Interiors and The Bee and the Boxwood Gifts 215 Boone Heights Drive, Suite 300, Boone (828) 386-6212 www.thebeeandtheboxwood.com

Banner Elk Consignment Cottage 414 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk (828) 898-5733

Mast General Store (Three Locations) Downtown Boone 630 West King Street, Boone (828) 262-0000 www.mastgeneralstore.com

Fred’s General Mercantile 501 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain (828) 387-4838 www.fredsgeneral.com

Original Store 3565 N.C. 194, Valle Crucis (828) 963-6511

mastgeneralstore.com. 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 a staple of Boone life for tourists, locals and

Todd General Store 3866 Todd Railroad Grade Road, Todd (336) 877-1067

college students.

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 CarolinaGreensboro. 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.

129

Old-fashioned candy BY ANNA OAKES

idden Happiness Bee Farm has opened its Beeville Seasonal Christmas Shop at its 1060 Chestnut Mountain Road location. “What a great way to start and end a visit to the High Country! We’ve got old-fashioned sweets (licorice, hardcandies and taffy) in barrels. You can purchase Christmas ornaments made by local craftsmen right off our tree. And an ongoing inventory of locallythemed gift baskets can be purchased in-store and even shipped across the U.S.,” says H.S. Greene, who opened the Hidden Happiness Store in 2019. “The kids will love a visit to Hidden Happiness Bee Farm for the holidays! There is an observation hive right in the store, and the entire family will enjoy watching the magic of nature as the Beeville worker bees ready their hive for the winter.” Hidden Happiness is located right off U.S. Highway 421, midway between Wilkesboro and Boone. The Deep Gap location is uniquely situated to act as a 130

PHOTO SUBMITTED Visitors to Hidden Happiness Bee Farm must make a stop to see Beeville.

visitor center to greet travelers heading into West Jefferson and Blowing Rock. Coffee and honey samples are complimentary, and drinks and snacks are also available in the store. As visitors head back southeast on 421, they can pick up woodcrafts, gift baskets, toys and locally sourced honey to take back home. Store hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with special 2 p.m. to 6 p.m holiday hours on Sunday from now until Christmas. Buses

and RVs are welcome and a circular driveway is available for ease in maneuvering these larger vehicles. Hidden Happiness Bee Farm is the primary provider of woodware, hive health supplements and honey extraction equipment and supplies for the High Country, serving Wilkes, Ashe, Watauga and surrounding counties. In addition, the farm offers ongoing training and support for beekeepers at all levels. To find out more, visit www.hiddenhappinessbeefarms.com.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Old-fashioned candy is available at Hidden Happiness Bee Farm.

WINTER TIMES 2020

Jim’s Corner

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336-384-2929 Limited Hours FREE FINANCING WITH APPROVED CREDIT! 131

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Call Us Today at 828-434-6521 or Visit our Website at primodeliveries.com 132

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133

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828-765-9151 134

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135

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ADVERTISERS INDEX 4 Seasons ................................................................60 A Designers Touch By Lauren ................................ 19 Abbey Carpet ..........................................................69 Animal Advocates ..................................................117 Antiques On Howard .............................................. 55 Appalachian Furniture ...........................................68 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System ............. 81 Ashe Chamber Of Commerce .................................60 Ashe County Arts Council ......................................60 Ashe County Cheese ...............................................60 Avery County Habitat Restore ...............................62 Banner Elk Olive Oil ...............................................59 Banner Elk Winery ................................................. 61 Beech Mountain Resort ....................................86, 87 Berkshire Hathaway ............................................... 17 Bernhardt .................................................................3 Best Cellar ............................................................. 133 Black Bear Wine And Spirits ............................ 16, 63 Blackberry Creek Mattress Company .............. 47, 57 Blowing Rock Art/History Museum ......................32 Blowing Rock Attraction ........................................ 27 Blowing Rock Chamber Of Commerce ................ 101 Blowing Rock Furniture Gallery .............................. 7 Blue Deer .......................................................... 55, 93 Blue Pearl ...............................................................63 Blue Ridge Energy .................................................116 Bodegas ........................................................... 59, 134 Boone Bagelry ................................................. 54, 136 Boones Fly Shop ..................................................... 51 Booneshine ........................................................... 133 Brass Exchange, The .............................................. 91 Brenda Kays Crafts .................................................62 Brushy Mountain Powersports .............................. 97 Cabin Store ........................................................... 129 Cafe Portofino ....................................................... 135 Cam Rahn Bay ...................................................... 134 Captain Jims Seafood .............................................63 Carlton Gallery ..................................................... 105 Century .............................................................. 21 23 Chetola Resort At Blowing Rock ............................45 Classic Stone Works ............................................. 123 Cumberland Marketing ..........................................52 WINTER TIMES 2020

Dan’l Boone Inn .................................................... 136 Dianne Davant .................................................. 33, 57 Discounted Name Brands .................................... 124 Distinctive Cabinetry .............................................. 41 Doe Ridge Pottery ..................................................54 Eat Crow ............................................................... 136 Edge Of The World .................................................35 Echota ............................................................. 57, 140 Engle & Volkers ...................................................... 21 Family Billiards ...............................................57, 133 Farmers Rentals & Power ......................................85 Foscoe Realty Rentals .......................................... 139 Freds General Mercantile .......................................40 Grandfather Mountain ..........................................117 Grandfather Mountain Campground .....................46 Grandfather Vineyard ............................................ 57 Graystone Eye .........................................................48 Gregory Alan ...........................................................53 Hawkins Jewelers ...................................................63 Hawksnest .............................................................. 37 Hellbender ...................................................... 53, 135 High Country Vacation Homes ......................... 10, 11 Holiday Inn Express ...............................................60 Incredible Toy Company ........................................ 74 Ironhorse Antiques ................................................64 Jenkins Realtors .......................................................9 Jim Armstrong Subaru ......................................42,43 Jims Corner Furniture ..........................................131 Kayes Kitchen .........................................................62 Keller Williams ..................................................... 109 Kincaid ......................................................................3 Krazy Daves ............................................................49 Lakeview Nursery ...................................................65 Leatherwood Mountains ........................................89 Lees Mcrae College ................................................. 67 Linville Land Harbor ......................................... 2, 111 Lost Province .......................................................... 55 Marsh Propane .......................................................95 Mast Farm Inn ........................................................56 Mast General Store .................................................56 Mccoys Minerals ..................................................... 77 Mitchell County Chamber ......................................26

Mountain Home And Hearth Inc ...........................40 Mountain Dog .........................................................69 Mountain Jewelers .................................................62 Mountain Land ....................................................... 67 Mountain Spirits ...................................................119 Museum Of Ashe County .......................................60 My Best Friends Barkery ........................................59 Mystery Hill ............................................................ 75 New Lifestyles Carpet One .....................................83 New River Building Supplies ................................113 Over Yonder ............................................................56 Paramount Motors ............................................... 138 Parker Tie ...............................................................60 Pedalin Pig ............................................................ 136 Peddler Steakhouse .............................................. 135 Poppys Wildcraft ....................................................65 Primo Deliveries ................................................... 132 Ram’s Rack ............................................................. 55 Recess ..................................................................... 13 Remax Realty Group .............................................. 15 Rivercross ...............................................................56 Rock Dimensions ....................................................54 Spice And Tea Exchange ........................................95 Shoppes At Tynecastle ..................................... 72, 73 Skyline Telephone Corp ......................................... 81 Sorrentos ................................................................58 Stone Cavern ........................................................100 Stonewall’s ...................................................... 59, 134 Superior Spas .........................................................25 Sugartop Resort ......................................................29 Tatum Galleries ...................................................... 57 Taylor House Inn ....................................................56 Town Tavern ......................................................... 135 Valle Crucis Conference Center .............................56 Vanderpool Campground .......................................83 Vannoy Properties .................................31, 70, 71, 96 Village Jewelers ...................................................... 55 Village Of Banner Elk .............................................59 Vintage Farm House ...............................................60 Western Sizzlin ............................................... 65, 134 Woodlands Bbq .................................................... 133 Yellow Mountain ....................................................62 137

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Home of the 10 Year -100,000 Mile Warranty on every New Volkswagen.

Valid with any new Volkswagen model purchased after Jan. 1, 2020. See dealer for complete limited powertrain warranty details. Not valid on vehicles registered for commercial purposes or previous purchases.

Paramount Volkswagen of Hickory

138

1207 South Center Street, Hickory, NC 28602

Sales: 844-740-9809 www.ParamountVW.com WINTER TIMES 2020

Visit the Mountains of North Carolina Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just the two of you or the whole family, Foscoe Rentals has something for everyone; from hot tubs, pool tables, and views to pet-friendly homes. Let us help you enjoy the High Country!

1-800-723-7341 / 828-963-8142 | www.FoscoeRentals.com 133 Echota Parkway Boone, NC 28607

WINTER TIMES 2020

139

140

WINTER TIMES 2020