Winter Times 2021-22 by Mountain Times Publications

Embrace all seasons.

LINVILLELANDHARBOR.COM

TIME FOR A

R ET IFM R E S H E FOR A

SEMI-ANNUAL

AFTER MARKET

SALE WINTER FALL TIME FOR A SALE

Staring at the same four walls doesn’t mean you have to stare at the same old furnishings. Give your home a breath of fresh air at

N OV E M B E R 10– 21

SEMI-ANNUAL

SEMI-ANNUAL AFTER MARKET

R ERFERFERSEHS H TFACTORY IME FOR A DIRECT

AFTER MARKET

S A L UNDERWAY SE A L E

NOW!

NOVEMB ER 10–21

R 10–21 S E M I -NAOVE N NMBE UA L Staring at the same four walls doesn’t mean you have to stare at the same oldStaring furnishings. breath of freshyou air at at theGive sameyour fourhome wallsadoesn’t mean have to stare atAFTER MARKET

R EF UFRFACTORY R E S H N I T U R E O U TDIRECT LETS

F U RFACTORY NITURE O U T L E TS A L E DIRECT the same old furnishings. Give your home a breath of fresh air at

N OV E M B E R 10– 21

FURNITURE OUTLETS

Staring at the same four walls doesn’t mean you have to stare at the same old furnishings. Give your home a breath of fresh air at

FACTORY DIRECT

FURNITURE OUTLETS Showroom Samples · Discontinued · Scratch & Dent · Overstocks · Below Wholesale Prices! Prices! Showroom Samples · Discontinued · Scratch & Dent · Overstocks · Below Wholesale

Let us make your home Comfortable, Warm, and Welcoming! Showroom Samples · Discontinued · Scratch & Dent · Overstocks · Below Wholesale Prices! Let us make your home Comfortable, Warm, and Welcoming!

Let us make your home Comfortable, Warm, and Welcoming!

Showroom Samples · Discontinued · Scratch & Dent · Overstocks · Below Wholesale Prices!

Let us make your home Comfortable, Warm, and Welcoming!

BERNHARDT FACTORY OUTLET 4916 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.313.0795 • outlet@bernhardt.com • Hours: Tues – Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

BERNHARDT FACTORY OUTLET 4916 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.313.0795 • outlet@bernhardt.com • 4916 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 Hours: Tues – Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

BERNHARDT FACTORY OUTLET 4916 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.313.0795 • outlet@bernhardt.com • Hours: Tues – Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

KINCAID FACTORY OUTLET 4930 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.496.2262 • kfdo@la-z-boy.com • Hours: Tues – Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WINTER TIMES 2021

4916 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 BERNHARDT FACTORY OUTLET

KINCAID FACTORY OUTLET

Table of Contents Numbers of Note .......................................... 6 High Country Host ........................................ 6 Towns ......................................................... 12 Appalachian Ski Mtn. ................................. 22 Beech Mountain Resort .............................. 24 Sugar Mountain Resort .............................. 26 Snowboarding in the High Country ........... 28 Winter Ziplining .......................................... 30 Hawksnest .................................................. 32 Snowshoeing .............................................. 34 Sledding ...................................................... 35 Snow Sports ............................................... 36 Shopping Local ........................................... 37 Winter Wardrobe ........................................ 38 Winter Driving ............................................ 40 Outdoors Fun .............................................. 41 Go for a Hike ............................................... 42 Fly Fishing .................................................. 46 Winterfest ................................................... 50 Woolly Worm Success ................................ 54 Holiday Happenings ................................... 76 Light Displays ............................................. 78 Grandfather Mountain ................................ 82 Mystery Hill ................................................ 86 Blue Ridge Parkway ................................... 90 Main Stages ................................................ 96 The Appalachian Theatre ......................... 100 Schaefer Center ........................................ 104 Art Galleries .............................................. 106 Frescoes of the High Country .................. 112 Christmas Tree Tips and Tricks ............... 114 Winter in Banner Elk ................................ 116 Caving ....................................................... 118 Gift Giving ................................................. 119 General Stores .......................................... 122 High Country Spas .................................... 124 Choose and Cut ........................................ 126 Beer and Breweries .................................. 130 High Country Wines .................................. 134 Christmas in Beeville ............................... 137 Restaurants ...................................... 138-144 Advertisers Index ..................................... 145

WINTER TIMES 2021

2021 Winter Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. PUBLISHER Jamie Shell EDITOR Johnny Hayes PRODUCTION CHIEF Rob Moore LAYOUT ARTIST

e om c l e W

to your 2021 High Country winter wonderland

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

WINTER TIMES 2021

attractions listed in these pages are open for business, the long-reaching effects of the global pandemic of 2020-21 has altered hours or even canceled some events. Where possible we list such qualifiers, but like the temperature and weather conditions on an area winter’s day, 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.

Jeff Winebarger CIRCULATION MANAGER Neal Falvey, Andrew Cole, Jamie Shell, Ian Taylor, Makaelah Walters, David Rogers, Chanda Richardson, Marisa Mecke and Moss Brennan WRITERS Mark Mitchell, Teresa Laws, Austin Fowler, Tim Walker, John Goheen, Nathan Godwin and Henry Volk SALES Photo by Rob Moore View in Western Watauga county. (MTNSnapshots.com)

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 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

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 Blowing Rock Medical Park (828) 295-3116

ANIMAL CONTROL/SHELTER

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

High Country Host

a valuable resource for visitors BY MOSS BRENNAN

he beautiful landscape and multiple exciting destinations in the High Country offer many adventures for those traveling. But the rolling peaks and valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountains also make for plenty of winding, curvy, two-lane roads, making a road trip a destination in itself. That can mean certain destinations a weary traveler sees on a map may not be as “close together” as it seems, 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. “We are the regional visitor center,” said Candice Cook, executive marketing director for High Country Host. We cover five counties, and counties along the highest elevation of the Blue Ridge Parkway in SEE HCH ON PAGE 8

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, at Milepost Exit 291. WINTER TIMES 2021

WINTER TIMES 2021

HCH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

To view our lineup of events featuring renowned artists from the 70's, 80's, 90's, and current nationally acclaimed artists visit

thecameotheater.com 703 State Street, Bristol, VA. 24201 8

1-276-296-1234

our region. We answer a lot of travel questions and provide information on where people can stay, what people can do, what is going on in the area and current weather conditions.” North Carolina High Country Host operates the Official Regional Welcome Center located between Boone and Blowing Rock, within view of part of the area’s portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway at 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) in 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. And all during that time, they answer questions from thousands of visitors each year. Cook said the most common question they get is “What’s going on today?” High Country Host keeps a weekly calendar of all events in the area which can be found at highcountrycalendar.com. “We also get a lot of questions about where to stay, especially on busy weekends when most things are booked up,” Cook said. “We keep a list here of last-minute availability. We can also help people figure out where to stay, based on what their activities are going to be while they’re here. For instance, if someone wants to ski at a certain resort, we can help them figure out what towns are closest to that resort, so they can stay closer. A lot of people that visit up here don’t

understand how far apart the towns are from each other.” High Country Host also offers insider information and updates that many visitors won’t find anywhere else. In addition to helping you plan day trips with travel time in mind, High Country Host can advise on which hotels and lodging facilities have vacancies. Cook said that while tourism is dependent on snow and the weather in the winter, they are starting to see travel on par with a normal year. “I’ve actually already taken a phone call this morning from someone looking for a cabin for the week after Christmas,” Cook said. “It usually always starts in October.” With the cold weather, Cook said a lot of questions can come from people who came up to ski, but the conditions aren’t good for it. “We spend a lot of time telling people about things they can do other than skiing in the area,” Cook said. “We always suggest some of the activities like hiking on the Blue Ridge Parkway because you can get great views in the winter because the leaves are gone and the humidity is gone.” Some of the other places High Country Host suggests to people includes Linville Caverns, Apple Hill Farm and Grandfather Mountain. The visitor center staff can also advise on group size limits at various establishments and whether you can walk in on the day of your visit or need to book several days in advance, 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. WINTER TIMES 2021

FALL IN LOVE WITH THE HIGH COUNTRY FIND YOUR DREAM HIGH COUNTRY HOME WITH US Each year the High Country sees thousands of visitors flock to our many wonderful towns to enjoy the great outdoor lifestyle. For some, the vacation turns into a desire to make our fantastic part of the world their permanent home. When it comes to navigating this competitive marketplace, you need an advisor who you can rely on. At Engel & Völkers, we have helped many families find their dream life in the mountains, from large custom-built homes to beautiful condominiums with mountain views and overlooking golf courses. With our local knowledge and expert advice, we'll guide you every step of your journey.

Contact us today to discuss finding your dream home in the High Country. Engel & Völkers Banner Elk 610 Banner Elk Highway . Banner Elk . NC 28604 . +1 828-898-3808 Learn more at bannerelk.evrealestate.com

©2021 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

WINTER TIMES 2021

Your Realtor for life... CENTURY 21

Mountain Vistas

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

C21MV.com | 202 Southgate Dr. Suite 19 | Boone, NC | 828-264-9111 *each office is independently owned and operated 10

WINTER TIMES 2021

...in the High Country!

Search for your New Home Here!

CENTURY 21 Mountain Vistas

WINTER TIMES 2021

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-AA 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. 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 12

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

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 communiSEE TOWNS ON PAGE 13

WINTER TIMES 2021

TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

ty 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. A favorite local dining spot is Over Yonder, which opened in 2014 in the former homestead of the Taylor Family, one of the founding families of Valle Crucis. For more information, visit www. vallecrucis.com.

TODD

Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties. The community’s main drag, Railroad Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours, as it winds along with the New River, one of the few 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 WINTER TIMES 2021

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 Country Retreat Family Billiards. Foscoe’s also home to one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridge line’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 SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 15

WINTER TIMES 2021

TOWNS

try 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.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

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 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. WINTER TIMES 2021

CROSSNORE

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

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, 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 coun-

Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. The town is home to Crossnore Communities for Children, 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 Sloops’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County. Today, Crossnore Communities for Children 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 SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 16

TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

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, Elk Park takes visitors back to a simpler time. The town’s original thoroughfare, Lower Street, and many businesses originated when Elk Park hosted a train depot for the old East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, better known as Tweetsie. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town. For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573.

LINVILLE

The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville, who were reportedly killed by Cherokees in 1766. East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956. Linville has three country clubs in 16

FILE PHOTO Some of the best photo opportunities in the High Country are at the Blowing Rock.

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 Moun-

tain, popular skiing and snow-tubing destinations. Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain. The Grandfather Mountain attraction offers picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Grandfather Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities.

NEWLAND

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

WINTER TIMES 2021

TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

nal jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County. During the summer 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 events on weekends during the summer and is the permanent home for the county’s annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September. Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade through downtown, with decorations adorning the town reflecting the area’s rich Christmas tree industry. With a number of restaurants and boutiques downtown, Newland is a prime destination for dining and shopping, or just to stop in on a visit to nearby Roan Mountain, Tenn., or Grandfather Mountain. For more information, visit www.townofnewland.com.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN

If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar 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 18

FILE PHOTO Winter hiking can be invigorating. The Beech Tree Trail at Elk Knob State Park is covered in snow in December 2017.

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.

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 delecSEE TOWNS ON PAGE 19

WINTER TIMES 2021

TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

table 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 availWINTER TIMES 2021

able 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, and the 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 Winery for individualized tours of a family-owned wine business. SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 20

TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

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

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

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

The Perfect

retail stores. West Jefferson is home to many varieties of artwork, from paintings and photographs to sculptures and quilted items. More information about the area’s art district can be found at the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave., just off of East Main Street. The center is home to the Ashe County Arts Council, which sponsors a

variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year. A popular spot in the town is the Ashe County Cheese Plant where visitors can see cheese made and go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese Store to purchase a variety of cheeses, from cheddar to pepper jack and the celebrated cheese curds. Old-fashioned snacks and candies and locally made wines can also be purchased at the store. The cheese plant is open 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.

Backyard Getaway!

The first, the best, the most recognized Jacuzzi isn’t just a renowned name, but the manufacturer of extraordinary spas, with innovation and quality second to none.

SUPERIOR SPAS

“YOUR BACKYARD SPECIALIST”

4090 HWY 105 South Boone, NC 28607 828-963-6624 www.superior-spas.com

Recipient of the Exceptional Customer Service Award 20

WINTER TIMES 2021

co t ca en Roc Lo p g nd in O ow

n io

et re St

G GB B I F I FE E T TS T S T SH SH O O P P

Southern Charm in the High Country Southern Charm in the High Country

HOME · GARDEN · GIFTS HOME · GARDEN · GIFTS

WINTER TIMES 2021

215 Boone Heights Dr., Boone · bbandminteriors@gmail.com · www.thebeeandtheboxwood.com bbandminteriors@gmail.com · www.thebeeandtheboxwood.com · 828.386.6212 ·

828.386.6212

215 Boone Heights Two Dr., Boone · :bbandminteriors@gmail.com Locations 960 Main St Blowing Rock · · www.thebeeandtheboxwood.com 215 Boone Heights Dr., Boone

828.386.6212

Appalachian Ski Mtn. offers exciting snow experience for all

BY DAVID ROGERS

ith the greatest amount of snowmaking pump capacity per acre of any ski resort in the Southeast region, Appalachian Ski Mtn. is primed to bring plenty of joy and recreational opportunities to winter sports enthusiasts. ASM’s snowmaking abilities start with a $2 million investment in snowmaking automation, snow guns, pumping capacity and increased water storage. With the addition of a new Pisten Bully 400 snow grooming machine to ASM’s existing fleet of grooming equipment, the resort offers its guests the best possible snow surface. Appalachian Ski Mtn. features a dozen slopes for skiers of all ages and abilities. At one-half mile, the resort’s longest run is Orchard Run. “Ski Wee” and “Cruiser Camp” programs are taught on beginner terrain for skiers ages 4-10 and snowboarders ages 7-12, but more difficult slopes include Hard Core, Thin Slice, Upper Big Appal, Lower Big Appal, and Strudel in addition to Orchard Run. By “thinking outside the box” and planning, the COVID-19 pandemic hardly fazed ASM during the 202021 ski season. According to ASM General Manager Brad Moretz, the pressures for 22

RED BULL CONTENT POOL/AARON BLATT Luke Winkelmann of Blowing Rock started out on the slopes of Appalachian Ski Mtn. at age 6. Now he is a professional snowboarder on the U.S. Ski and Snowboarding national team, traveling the world.

social distancing pushed the resort to rethink its business model and how it serves customers. In addition to installing several plexiglass protective screens to keep guests and employees safe while inside the lodge by reducing the potential spread of the virus

should anyone be a carrier, the resort added outdoor seating for as many as 400 guests in select areas around the lodge, allowing for social distancing while eating or enjoying “down time” outdoors. Perhaps the most innovative steps taken by ASM, though, included requiring reserva-

tions and timeslot-based ticket pickup. “Reservations are required for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, equipment rental and season memberships. Clothing rental, nursery (childcare), park passes and parking are now also available on the online platform. This provides our guests with the most time on the slopes and minimal time in the lodge,” said ASM Marketing Manager Drew Stanley. Moretz said that the timeslot ticketing dramatically reduced congestion last season, spreading out the times when skiers, snowboarders and ice skaters arrived. “Every person gets a specific, reserved five-minute time slot for ticket pickup at the cashier booth. This cuttingedge time slot system expedites your lodge experience and maximizes your time on the snow,” said Stanley. “This timeslot system dovetails perfectly with our renowned Flex Ticket, so no matter what time slot is selected, your session starts when your ticket is issued. Guests are asked not to enter the lodge more than five minutes before their scheduled pickup time.” What is new at ASM begins when you arrive at the front gateway, where a smooth entry experience awaits, compliments of a new gatehouse that includes a large covered entryway to protect visitors

from the elements. “There are also two lanes to help better manage traffic,” said Stanley. For nearly as long as Appalachian Ski Mtn. has been operating, French Swiss Ski College has served as a complementary service to help skiers and snowboarders develop their skills with professional instruction. Typically, the instructional packages include the slope ticket, equipment rental, helmet rental and group instruction. Private lessons are also available. Classes have limited availability and reservations are required. Since 1969, French Swiss Ski College has provided instruction for more than one million people. As safety precautions, face coverings are required at all indoor locations with no exceptions for guests 2 years old and older. The face coverings should cover the nose and mouth at all times in these situations and are expected to be worn any time that social distancing is not being practiced on the property. A little-known fact outside of Blowing Rock: Current U.S. Ski & Snowboarding team member Luke Winkelmann got his start at Appalachian Ski Mtn. as a 6-year-old! For more information about special events, lessons or lift tickets, visit https://appskimtn.com/. WINTER TIMES 2021

C R I T T E R F R I E N D LY

WE’RE OPEN WITH LOTS OF FRESH AIR AND SOCIAL DISTANCING IN PLACE

“Enjoy the Legend” NORTH CAROLINA’S OLDEST TRAVEL ATTRACTION SINCE 1933

432 The Rock Road, Blowing Rock, NC 28645 828.295.7111. TheBlowingRock.com

nd” WINTER TIMES 2021 OLINA’S OLDEST TRAVEL ATTRACTION, SINCE 1933

Winter fun awaits at Beech Mountain Resort BY NEAL FALVEY

perating as one of the premiere Appalachian winter sport destinations, Beech Mountain Resort offers an array of difficulties and terrain styles. Beech Mountain Resort features 95 ski-able acres containing 17 different slopes for a varied experience during any run. Beech Mountain Resort has been operating for more than 50 years and has shown substantial growth over that period of time. Infrastructure project improvements, continuous advancements and a supporting clientele are hallmarks of the resort. True beginners do not have to brave the daring of a diamond run when they first strap on the boots. Rookie winter sport athletes can test their skills and learn the ropes of skiing and snowboarding on three accommodating incline slopes. People of all ages and all skill levels may utilize the “bunny” slopes to learn, grow, test and teach. Advanced winter athletes can demonstrate their prowess on the diamond slopes or even try their hand at the terrain course that offers challenging foundational pieces like railings, boxes and jumps. 24

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

Without forgetting the laid-back thrill seekers, Beech Mountain Resort also contains numerous standard slopes designed to be easier than a difficult slope, but much more challenging than a hill. To relax from a trip on the powder, BMR has added a greenspace with

four firepits and seating at its former ice rink location, located next to the resort’s new coffee shop, First Chair Coffee. The resort plans to offer a new ice rink in the future, located behind the lodge. Last year, Beech Mountain Resort added an increased snow making

capacity with a new pump system, along with new automated snow cannons. These improvements from the previous year will carry into the 2021-2022 season to continuously enhance the quality and quantity of the snow being applied to the slopes. Another recently established renovation is

the 5506’ Skybar at the top of the mountain, complete with an outdoor deck. An online rental program for equipment and tickets, as well as property rentals and a shuttle service also been recently added to the mountain’s repertoire. To appropriately compliment the snowy fun of

Beech Mountain, the resort has added its own brewery, complete with taproom and grill. As one of the only US breweries owned and operated by a ski area, Beech Mountain Resort features a truly unique SEE BEECH ON PAGE 25

WINTER TIMES 2021

BEECH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

component that provides a genuine enhancement to the atmosphere and culture of the slopes. The brewery provides the scenic atmosphere to relax or fuel up after a long day of your favorite mountain activity. A bilevel facility with a large fireplace and hardwood flooring throughout, Beech Mountain Brewing Co. is accessible for all visitors. The brewing company also hosts live events throughout the season on Friday and Saturday evenings, while the taproom will be hopping with live music throughout the season. An events calendar can be found on the resort’s website at beechmountainresort.com. Beech Mountain Resort offers the early-season, high-caliber Beech Mountain Academy. Beech Mountain Academy is an inclusive team of young athletes dedicated to ski racing, free skiing and snowboarding. Athletes range in age from 5 to 18. Many of the families involved in the academy travel from cities all around North Carolina and Tennessee. Beech Mountain Academy is supported by a nonprofit organization that is managed by the families that make up the team. Beech Mountain Resort has much to offer in the realm of activities, vacations and experiences. Beech operates as a winter sports haven in the High Country and also offers WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO COURTESY BEECH MOUNTAIN PARKS AND RECREATION The Beech Mountain sled hill is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week, weather permitting, during the winter season.

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT STATS AND TRAILS Acreage: 95 skiable acres Peak Elevation: 5,506 feet Base Elevation: 4,675 feet Vertical Rise: 830 feet

Trails

3 Easiest 7 More Difficult 4 Most Difficult 17 Total Trails rentals, instruction, dining, lodging and events. For ticket prices, current ski conditions, lodging, directions and additional information, contact Beech Mountain Resort at (828)-

387-2011, visit beechmountainresort.com or email info@skibeech.com. Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604.

PHOTO COURTESY BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Beech Mountain Resort has recently revamped its online equipment rental service. 25

Sugar Mountain Resort BY NEAL FALVEY

MOUNTAIN STATISTICS

ugar Mountain Resort is the largest winter sport destination in the state of North Carolina and lives up to the name as a grand place to be. Sugar Mountain Resort features skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing and a snowshoe experience. For more than 50 years Sugar Mountain Resort has altered the winter sport culture of the Appalachian Mountains and remains a significant achievement in the realm of High Country sporting. Gunther and Kim Jochl have been operating Sugar Mountain Resort for more than four decades and they have time and again created and expanded the activity-related foundation of the county. The Jochls are a driving force in the shaping of the successful winter and summer destination. The Sugar Mountain trail system offers 125 acres of skiable terrain, with 22 slopes being served by a multitude of chairlifts and a magic carpet for the beginner slope. Fifteen of the slopes are available for night skiing and snowboarding. Along with the beginner slope, Sugar Mountain Resort contains various trails with different expertise levels, including a terrain park, to accommodate the brand new to the highly experienced 26

Acreage: 125 skiable acres Peak Elevation: 5,300 feet Base Elevation: 4,100 feet Vertical Rise: 1,200 feet

Trails

8 Beginner 10 Intermediate 1 Difficult 2 Expert 1 Double Black Diamond 22 Total Trails

PHOTO COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Sugar Mountain Resort was established in 1969.

FILE PHOTO Visitors to Sugar Mountain Resort will have the opportunity to demo and test some of the newest industry leading gear from brands like Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, Rossignol and Ride and Line at Sugar Mountain’s SugarFest.

snowsport enthusiast. Sugar Mountain Resort has been a mainstay in the county for years and has continued its expansion to offer not only the highestquality winter sport experience but overall experience for those who take part in the resort’s snow activities.

The resort has made available all the necessary accommodations to equip oneself for a full vacation. Rentals, instruction, and lodging can all be found at the resort to compliment the winter sport vacation. Last year Sugar Mountain Resort added a large

amount of space to the base area, allowing for more visitors to gather and swap slope stories. This year a brand new 2,000-foot-long, fixedgrip chairlift has added to the slopes, the fourth installment in six years, demonstrating the resort’s commitment to upgrades, offering the highest possible quality experience. Five additional, fully automated snow making machines have been installed on the slopes to go along with a freshly paved parking lot as well. Sugar Mountain Resort has made a name for itself in the event hosting arena, offering numerous different festivals and special events at the village. Sugar Mountain is known for its Oktoberfest celebration and then officially kicks off the winter season with the

annual SugarFest weekend of winter fun, which takes place Dec. 10 to 12. SugarFest features a special test drive of the newest and coolest ski and snowboard equipment for visitors to try. With the purchase of a lift ticket, guests can try out the latest ski and snowboard equipment from Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, Rossignol, Ride and Line, and just about every other manufacturer displayed in store showrooms. Demo opportunities will take place on Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This year’s winter kickoff will also include the ceremonial opening of Sugar’s new Big Birch quad chairlift. SugarFest, a high caliber winter sports festival, will also have even more to offer. The event will celebrate the first Girls Go Shred Ride Day of the season. From beginners to experienced riders, all

are encouraged to come out and snowboard with the crew, making some turns with new friends and picking up some tips and tricks. Girls Go Shred will be ready for visitors at the bottom of the slopes. Additionally, lots of food and drink will be available at SugarFest. A hot chocolate and whipped cream bar, soup safari and a barbecue dinner will be offered. The festival will have live music and conclude with a fireworks show presented by the Village of Sugar Mountain. Other events to be hosted by Sugar Mountain Resort are the preseason ski clinic, a New Year’s Eve celebration, and a continuously offered winter music series to be performed on various weekends throughout the season. For more information, visit skisugar.com or call (828)-898-4521. Sugar Mountain Resort is located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive in Sugar Mountain. WINTER TIMES 2021

Located Located In In Beautiful Beautiful Boone, Boone, North North Carolina Carolina In In Beautiful Beautiful Boone, Boone, North North Carolina Carolina 1, 2Located 1,and 2Located and 3 bedroom 3 bedroom townhomes townhomes with with garage garage options options available available Located In Beautiful Boone, North Carolina

1, 21,and 2 and 3 bedroom 3 bedroom townhomes townhomes with with garage garage options options available available Starting Starting at at $285,000 $285,000 1, 2 and 3 bedroom townhomes with garage options available

Starting Starting at $285,000 $285,000 Starting atat $285,000

Patrick Morgan Rick Miller Patrick Patrick Morgan Morgan Rick Rick Miller Miller Keller Williams High Country Miller Properties, Inc. Patrick Patrick Morgan Morgan Rick Rick Miller Miller Keller Keller Williams Williams High High Country Country Miller Miller Properties, Properties, Inc.Inc. 828-773-2960 828-262-3830 Keller Keller Williams Williams High High Country Country Miller Miller Properties, Properties, Inc.Inc. 828-773-2960 828-773-2960 828-262-3830 828-262-3830 patrickmorgan@kw.com 828-773-2960 828-773-2960 828-262-3830 828-262-3830 patrickmorgan@kw.com patrickmorgan@kw.com patrickmorgan@kw.com patrickmorgan@kw.com *Broker Interest townhomesatbrookshire.com

*Broker *Broker Interest Interest

WINTER TIMES 2021

*Broker *Broker Interest Interest

townhomesatbrookshire.com townhomesatbrookshire.com townhomesatbrookshire.com townhomesatbrookshire.com

CARVING CAROLINA

Snowboarding in the High Country BY NEAL FALVEY

nowboarders far and wide are getting prepared for the upcoming winter season by dusting off the snow pants, lacing up the boots, tightening the bindings and wiping down the lenses of their favorite goggles. Many boarders all around the Southeast are expected to make their way to the High Country to visit one of the three preeminent snowsport resorts in Avery and Watauga counties. The High Country winter sports culture has been steadily growing since the advent of the major resorts in the area. With three locations to choose from in one geographic area, it is no surprise that boarders travel all over the country to snowboard Appalachian Mountains. Beech, Sugar and Appalachian Ski Mtn. all contain the necessary conditions and characteristics to draw a good snowboarding crowd: skiable acreage, array of difficulties, terrain parks, a mile-high peak elevation, numerous shops/rentals and a supportive snowboarding youth culture to include nearby colleges and universities. 28

TIPS & TRICKS FOR SNOWBOARDERS

PHOTO SUBMITTED Two snowboarders await their run at Beech Mountain Resort. Night riding is cheaper than during the day and can offer a unique experience under the lights.

It is not shocking to know that the sport of snowboarding draws a younger crowd, and for all intent and purposes it is the newer of the winter sports. Nowadays, the sport has developed more into an all-ages type of activity, from kids learning on their preliminary snow sport, adults picking up the slab for the first time and even transitional skiers who wish to try something new. Instructors at the major destinations are more than able to train anyone of the use on a snowboard, whereas 20 years ago only ski instruction was offered. Many new and longtime snowboarders have made a trip to the High Coun-

try in order to enjoy the admirable shredding. A successful trip begins with the planning. For those coming from out of town, lodging should be the top priority. A close rental cabin is the perfect spot for a boarder to house themselves on a mountainous journey. If price weighs heavily on the decision, there are plenty of slightly less close options in surrounding mountain towns. The commute to the base of the mountain should be careful and timed appropriately. If one does not own their own board, rental equipment can always be found, either at the resort itself or at one of the numerous local board shops.

Keep one boot in the bindings and shuffle around with the other foot to get to the chairlift. Riding at night is cheaper and offers a different experience under the lights. Change into your boots after you drive to the resort base. Do not lay in groups on the middle of the slope. Try to ride the board down when you get off the lift by pressing your free foot against the binding or on a stomp pad. Do not be afraid to fall. Dress in layers. Dry your boots after riding. Be careful with your phone on the chairlift. Ask anyone for assistance, as most people are more than willing to help. Weather conditions are an important aspect to any experience. Temperatures, especially on top of the mountain, can drop considerably. Elevation, wind speed, precipitation and raw temperature should heavily influence the type of clothing worn. Freezing while sitting on a chairlift, can produce a detrimental effect to a snowboarding trip. Veteran snowboarders will advise to dress in heavy layers and always have waterproof or waterresistant final jackets, pants, bibs and gloves. While boarding at night is a tremendous experience, prepare for temperatures to drop even lower after the sun has set. If you’re new to the sport and not receiving professional instruction,

then watch other boarders closely. Angling one’s feet and bending knees can impact bearing tremendously. Keeping eyes forward and balancing with one’s arms will help to keep the body steady. Do not be afraid to go down the bunny slopes over and over again to get comfortable with the stationary feet, body movement and equipment. When comfortable enough to hop on the chairlift keep one foot in the binding and one foot out. When it comes time to get off the lift, attempt to ride the board directly off the chair, then bind the other foot before going down the mountain. Experienced skateboarders and surfers will quickly find a suitable home, as a snowboard and its

mechanics are immensely similar to catching a wave with a surfboard. The equipment architecture and movement dynamics from skateboarding and surfing translate well to the snow-covered mountain. Skiers will find similarities between the two winter sports as well, in terms of the gliding, speed control and stopping. The local resorts can accommodate every skill level for snowboarding, and should offer a great starting point for beginners and a nice challenge for experienced riders. Snowboarders will find a supportive environment, accessible board shops with knowledgeable personnel and a scenic mountain setting unique to the Eastern Seaboard. WINTER TIMES 2021

EDGE WORLD OF THE SNOWBOARD SHOP REPAIR & DEMO CENTER (828) 898-9550

@edgeoworldNC

394 Shawneehaw Ave

Downtown Banner Elk WINTER TIMES 2021

ENTERTAINMENT LINE ITEM

Winter ziplining at Hawksnest BY DAVID ROGERS

f a combination of speed, exhilaration and scenic beauty are your thing, winter ziplining at Hawksnest in the High Country could be just the ticket. Located just outside of Boone, there’s no better way to adventure in the North Carolina mountains than a visit to Hawksnest Zipline, offering two full-tour options. The tours stretch over four miles worth of ziplining fun, featuring 20 ziplines in total. Both tour options include their own MEGA ZIPS – ziplines more than 1,500 feet long. Enjoy heights of more than 200 feet and speeds up to 40 mph while ziplining over the treetops, through the canopy, and over lakes and creeks. This is all while taking in the spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Choose between the Hawk Tour, Eagle Tour, and Snow Bird Tour, each with their own features and characteristics. The attraction that eventually came to be known as Hawksnest opened its doors to the public in 1964, originally as a ski resort. A few years later, a golf course was 30

FILE PHOTO Ziplining is a winter sport as well as a summer sport in the High Country, with gear available year-round at some of the outfitters throughout the area.

added and, in 1968, the ski resort’s name was officially changed to Ski Hawksnest. Hawksnest’s current own-

ers, the Cottom Family, assumed ownership of the golf course in 1991 and eventually took over full ownership of

both the golf course and ski resort, changing the name to Hawksnest Golf & Ski Resort. The attraction officially stopped skiing and snowboarding in 2008 upon switching its focus to creating the East Coast’s largest snow tubing park. Then, in 2009, it began construction of the original zipline course and welcomed their first zippers later that summer. While Hawksnest has transitioned over the years, it still enjoys hearing visitors’ stories of late-night, “Nighthawk” skiing & snowboarding shenanigans, or the occasional misguided call for a tee time. Lots of great memories and still plenty more to come await those who visit Hawksnest. The Hawk is an 11-cable zipline tour featuring 1.5 miles of ziplining, with two cables more than 1,500 feet long, and two swinging bridges. This tour is the more scenic and more popular of the two tour options. It’s a great tour option for families, adventure seekers of all ages young and old, and even first time zipliners! Reservations are required and participants must arrive 30 minutes prior to their scheduled tour time. The Eagle is a nine-cable

tour featuring almost three miles of ziplining, with two cables longer than 2,000 feet, three more greater than 1,200 feet, and a suspension bridge. This tour is higher, faster and longer than the original Hawk Tour. It’s a great tour option for thrill seekers and repeat zipliners. It is recommended that riders have some previous zipline experience, are relatively physically fit, and are comfortable with heights the Eagle Tour heights. Reservations are required and participants must arrive 30 minutes in advance of their scheduled tour time. The Snow Bird is fourcable tour that is the perfect zipline adventure for the chillier winter months! The Snow Bird Tour is a combination of the Hawk and Eagle Tours and features one of the longest ziplines on the Hawksnest property – more than 2,000 feet long. Zipline over the canopy with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Reservations are required and participants must arrive 30 minutes prior to their scheduled tour time. For more information, click to hawksnestzipline.com, call (828) 963-6561 or email info@hawksnesttubing.com. WINTER TIMES 2021

OVER

DIFFERENT AREAS TO SNOW TUBE

LANES

SOUTH E H T IN K R A P G ARGEST TUBIN

4 C ABL

E WINT

EAST

• LANES ARE 400-1000’ LONG • 3 CONVEYOR LIFTS • 100% SNOWMAKING • LIGHTING, ALL LANES

ER ZIP

SNOWBIRD TOUR

4 CABLE TOURS  4,500 FEET OF CABLE OPEN YEAR ‘ROUND

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED!

Off Hwy 105 Between Boone & Banner Elk

LINE TO

U R S!

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE!

HawksnestTubing.com | 828.963.6561 WINTER TIMES 2021

Hawksnest

A top tier destination for family thrill seekers BY ANDREW COLE

amily thrillseekers looking for wintery kicks this season should look no further than to Hawksnest, where snow-tubing and ziplining make for an adventure that will be remembered for years to come. Located in the community of Seven Devils, the size and scope of the park coupled with its selection of trails makes it perfect for adventurers from all walks of life and skill levels. Becoming a top-tier tubing hotspot didn’t happen overnight. Hawksnest got its start as a ski and golf resort when it first opened, but eventually made the transition over to tubing beginning in 2009. Today, the park boasts dozens of tubing trails, which range from 400 to 1,000 feet. This makes Hawksnest one of the largest tubing parks on the East Coast. Aside from the wide variety of trails, the park 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. Though Hawksnest’s 32

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

PHOTO COURTESY HAWKSNEST Snow Tubing at Hawksnest offers the thrill seeker dozens lanes of downhill fun.

full restaurant will not be open this season, the park will be offering refreshments including hot drinks, soft drinks, beer and ciders, as well as some basic food options to satisfy the palate. The park will continue to follow regulations and recommendations set by the CDC in regard to COVID-19. The resort will not require snow tubing participants to wear a mask while snow tubing outside, however it is strongly encouraged that everyone wear a protective face covering indoors, particularly in crowded common areas. This season, visitors can enjoy a tubing experience at Hawksnest

PHOTO COURTESY HAWKSNEST TUBING PARK Tubing offers a way for the whole family to enjoy winter in the High Country.

for $35 per person for one session and $45 per person for two sessions Monday through Friday (Non-Holidays) Rates will be $45 per person per session on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. It is important that

those wishing to snow tube this winter should come prepared. Riders are encouraged to wear multiple layers, with lighter layers on the bottom and heavier layers on the outside. They should also make sure to wear

warm, waterproof gloves that are appropriately sized and keep their feet and ankles warm with long, thick socks. Riders should also protect their eyes with sunglasses or goggles while tubing and wear a hat that protects their ears. Waterproof clothing goes a long way in the sometimes unpredictable weather of North Carolina’s High Country. Aside from the thrilling downhill adventures offered by their snow tubing sessions, Hawksnest will also be offering its high-flying, four-cable Snowbird Ziplining Tour this winter. The Snow Bird tour is $40 per person, which includes four ziplines, one of which are more than 2,000 feet long. Visitors should expect the tour to take about an hour to

complete. Riders wishing to zipline must be at least 5 years old to participate and cannot weigh more than 250 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches. Being one of the premier snow tubing and ziplining destinations in the region, it is highly encouraged that guests planning on visiting Hawksnest make a reservation. To do so, call (828) 963-6561 or visit their website at hawksnesttubing.com/. Hawksnest Snow Tubing Park is located at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils and is accessible by NC Highway 105. Check road conditions to ensure safe travel by either calling the resort or visiting www. ncdot.org/traffictravel. WINTER TIMES 2021

WINTER TIMES 2021

SNOWSHOEING

making tracks in High Country winter season BY ANDREW COLE

or hikers looking to add an unique seasonal element to their outdoor adventure, a snowshoeing excursion may be something to consider. A practice dating back centuries, snowshoeing has recently become a popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts looking to travel off the beaten path. There are times in the High Country area when snowfall can be heavy. Just in the past few years there has been snowfall in some areas of the High Country of more than a foot, making driving difficult, but conditions ideal for snowshoeing, since the activity requires at least six inches of snow. Over time, the wooden snowshoes of the past have transitioned into those made of plastic or a TPU (a rubberized fabric) and metal combination. However, the same basic concept behind the snowshoes remains: have equal distribution of the shoe to the snow. Those hoping to get into the sport can expect to pay anywhere from 34

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

PHOTO COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Snowshoeing can be a leisure activity or turn into a race between friends.

less than $100 to about $300 for new shoes. Compared to its rival sport of cross country skiing, snowshoeing is a cheaper endeavor and some say a more adaptable sport when it comes to walking in various snow conditions. Furthermore, most people who snowshoe also utilize hiking sticks —also known as trekking poles — which help to keep things balanced

and also add to the upper body workout that goes along with the sport. These can cost anywhere from around $30 — $200 depending on where they are purchased and what material they are made of. The High Country offers plenty of places to go snowshoeing, ranging from local parks and greenways to 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 off Hwy. 221 at milepost 305, on Roseboro Road at milepost 208 and on Old Jonas Ridge Road at milepost 311. Elk Knob State Park is also one of the few state

PHOTO COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT A party of adventurers trek across the snowy landscape of Sugar Mountain.

parks in the region that allows both snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Elk Knob strives to keep the park open in extreme winter conditions when many other parks are forced to close. This allows for unprecedented state park access during some of the most extreme whiteout condi-

tions. The park is located at 5564 Meat Camp Road in Todd. As for finding a pair of snowshoes and place to hit the trail here in the High Country, local outfitters Footsloggers is a go-to source. Currently Footsloggers has locations in Boone, Blowing Rock and West Jefferson. WINTER TIMES 2021

SLEDDING

a perfect winter pastime BY ANDREW COLE

erhaps no scene is quite as iconic as that of a kid flying downhill on his winter sled. Here in the High Country, the combination of winter weather and terrain make it the perfect location for the beloved winter pastime. However, knowing the best spots to ride, what’s best to wear and the best type of sled for you can help make your sledding experience even more memorable. The first step toward a memorable sledding experience is choosing the sled that’s right for you. There are many different kinds of sleds out there, ranging from the traditional wooden ones to more modern, plastic sleds. Furthermore, some sleds are shaped like saucers and may even offer foam cushioning that can act as shock absorption for one to two people. Likewise, many sleds are built with steering mechanisms, making them easier to control, while others just maneuver with the push of one’s weight. Many of the more modern, plastic sleds can be found at local shops throughout the High Country, but be aware, they tend to sell out fast during the winter months. Like most winter sports, proper attire is recommended for sledding. It’s best to dress in layers, with water resistant outerwear that doesn’t soak up moisture on the outside. It’s not uncommon for even the most expert of sledders to end up lying in a pile of soft snow. Lastly, one must find the perfect spot for sledding. Though the High Country is home to many hills, many of these may be located on private land. It is best to ask the permission of the landowner before making your way

WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY KIRSTEN JORDAN SEATZ Ezra, five months, and Eli, 2, sled and shovel snow. Sledding is always a favorite winter pastime of children and adults.

onto private property for a sledding excursion. Also, be sure there are no fences, ditches, rocks or other hazards that can potentially cause harm to you or your passengers at the foot of your hill. Sleds at times can be unwieldy and hard to stop. For those unable to find that perfect spot, luckily there’s there an official sled riding hill atop Beech Mountain. Operated by Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation Department, 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 snowblower is on hand to add to the natural snow levels when needed. For more information on snow conditions and more, call (800) 468-5506.

See & Do the Holidays downtownnorthwilkesboro.com 35

A culture of

snow sports

BY NEAL FALVEY

he High Country area, including Avery, Ashe and Watauga counties, have been well known for its scenic, idyllic mountains and the Appalachian culture. For more than 50 years now, the area is synonymous with winter sports and the ski resorts. The big three mountain resorts are the most well known and established: Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort in Avery County and Appalachian Ski Mtn. in Blowing Rock. All three of these resorts have been operating for more than a half century and have made themselves a true component to the foundation of the High Country for tourism and for local pride. All of the resorts offer multiple slopes, equipment rentals, instruction, dining, ice skating and plenty of snowmaking to maximize the total amount of skiable days. Combined, the three local resorts contain more than 50 total slope runs and base levels greater than 4,000 feet in elevation. There are quite a few similarities between the mountain resorts, as each one brings in plenty of visitors for all of them to 36

PHOTO SUBMITTED Recess Skate and Snow, located at 1158 Hwy 105, Boone, was voted Best Ski Shop and Best Sporting Goods store in 2021.

have significant seasonal success and help the surrounding areas thrive during all seasons of the year. The resorts have thus helped expand the areas to include various businesses, lodging areas and attractions. Tourism for the High Country has its roots based on the winter sports operations, with an ability to keep expanding. Each of the resorts also have unique characteristics that make them individualized. Sugar Mountain is known for its events, while Beech Mountain boasts its own brewery and lodge, and Appalachian Ski Mtn. is renowned for its snow-

PHOTO COURTESY BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Beech Mountain Resort’s increased snowmaking capacity will provide an enhanced experience for skiers and snowboarders alike.

making technologies. The rich history and the esteemed quality of the three mountain resorts are part of the reason why they have become so

established in Appalachia. Equipment rentals for winter sports are available at each of the resorts, including both skiing, snowboarding and

clothing rental. All rental prices are subject to the part of the season, time of day and specifics of equipment. Resorts guarantee the quality of the rentals for use and provide a great way for individuals or groups to use equipment easily and quickly. Individual shops throughout the Avery and Watauga areas also carry ski and snowboard equipment for rental for single days or multiple days of use. Shops also carry winter equipment for purchase as well, both new and used goods. Shops such as these can be found in the surrounding towns by the base of the mountain like Edge of the World in Banner Elk and Recess Skate and Snow in Boone. Snow shops offer a vast allotment of other items as well like outerwear, safety equipment, streetwear and souvenir goods. For skiers, one must make sure to have two skis, two poles, ski boots along with proper clothing like outer jacket, snow pants or bibs and gloves. Snowboarders ought to have a singular board, bindings, boots with the jacket, pants and gloves. An avid snowsport athlete may want to consider purchasing these items, while an annual snow sport visitor can enjoy the

accessibility and simplicity of renting. Weather conditions always play a factor in how to approach a day or night on the slopes. While proper clothing is always a necessity, a particularly cold or windy day may require the use of more underlayering and a winter-style hat. Night riding will certainly produce colder conditions as well, considering the absence of the sun, thus more warmth may enhance comfort. With respect to snow conditions on the slopes, natural snow is generally drier than the artificially sourced snow, providing more a lighter or more buoyant experience. Artificially sourced snow has a high water content and is more dense,and it also lasts longer than true precipitation snow, making it more resistant to rain. Artificial or machine snow is the production of snow by forcing water and pressurized air through a “snow gun”, also known as a “snow cannon.” All of the resorts in the area utilize machine snow throughout the season to keep the slopes well covered and plump. Because of the longevity and resistance to rain, artificial snow makes a great base for natural snow to fall to accumulate upon. WINTER TIMES 2021

in the High Country A GUIDE TO SHOPPING LOCAL Ashe County

PHOTO COURTESY COMMON GOOD COMPANY Owners Jacob Daniels and Melina LaVecchia Daniels pose in front of their new store, Common Good Company, on Aug. 1 after opening to the public. BY MAKAELAH WALTERS

he High Country offers a smalltown experience like no other, and it thrives on local business. 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. Boone Chamber of Commerce is planning to host the town’s 12th annual Small Business Saturday. The national shopping holiday, first observed in 2010, is held the Saturday after Thanksgiving as an effort to bring more holiday shopping to small businesses. It was originally sponsored by credit card company American Express and has since gained nationwide momentum. David Jackson, president and CEO of the Boone Chamber, said forward-facing industries like retail have been the hardest hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are operating in a time that is unlike any time we’ve ever operated in, but we can all still have the nice things we’d like to have,” Jackson said. Boone is home to a variety of locally WINTER TIMES 2021

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/ owned businesses offering quaint, original gifts with a unique artisan-like quality that appeals to visitors. Shops include Common Good Co, Art of Oil and Jerky Outpost. In the town of West Jefferson, the holidays hold a lot of meaning and is highly celebrated. Ashe County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kitty Honeycutt encourages shoppers to shop local. 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 Blowing Rock Market, The Spice & Tea Exchange of Blowing Rock and Marmalade. The town of Boone is home to Common Good Co., Art of Oil and Down Home Antiques and Gifts. 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. The downtown market 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. In the town of Blowing Rock there is Monkee’s of Blowing Rock and Cabin Fever of Blowing Rock. Popular destinations for clothing and home goods in Boone are Lucky Penny, The Shoppes at Farmers and Doe Ridge Pottery. Avery County is home to unique of-

PHOTO BY MAKAELAH WALTERS Charlotte Dashkavich mixes and matches items from different vendors to create an eye-catching display inside Down Home Antiques & Gifts.

ferings 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.

It’s everything a general store used to be...and more!

Grocery · Deli with Patio Dining Wild Bird Supply · Clothing · Hardware Open from 7:30am to 10:00pm Everyday (828) 387 4838

501 Beech Mountain Parkway · Beech Mountain, NC · www.fredsgeneral.com

Come visit us at Eastern America’s Highest Town

A wardrobe for

winter fun

BY MAKAELAH WALTERS

he High Country offers a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities through its three ski resorts. Dressing appropriately for the snow can make or break a fun-filled outing in the snow. Several local shops and ski resorts in the towns of Boone, Foscoe and Banner Elk offer apparel and rental gear for outdoor activities.

Recess Skate and Snow is located at 1158 Hwy. 105 in Boone. The locally owned shop, voted Best Ski Shop and Best Sporting Goods store in 2021 by the community, offers a wide selection of products from the highestquality 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. Owner of Recess J.P. Pardy’s tips for staying warm while completing any activities at local ski resorts include investing in a good pair of moisture-wicking socks

PHOTO SUBMITTED Recess is the High Country’s one-stop shop for winter gear, including warm knit beanies.

SEE WARDROBE ON PAGE 39

YOUR VISION BROUGHT TO

Life

CARPET • STONE • TILE • WOOD • VINYL • AREA RUGS

treehousemountainrealty.com

treehousemountainrealty.com info@treehousemtn.com info@treehousemtn.com

828-765-1655

Making Buying and Selling Making Buying and Selling an Easy and Comfortable Experience. an Easy and Comfortable Experience. Dedicated professionals working to help you reach your goal.

828-265-3622 • 221 Boone Heights Dr. • Boone Boone.BuyAbbey.com Monday - Friday 8-5 • Saturday by Appointment 38

Dedicated professionals working 167 Street (Lower Street) to Locust help you reach your goal. Spruce Pine, NC

167 Locust Street (Lower Street) WINTER TIMES 2021 Spruce Pine, NC

WARDROBE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

and layering clothing, starting with a good base layer and additional layers as needed, depending on outdoor temperatures. Pardy also highly recommended wearing protective and other protective face gear, like goggles and ski masks, on days that the resort is making snow or it is snowing outside, all of which are available at Recess. According to Pardy, the shop also provides inexpensive options for necessary apparel like insulated, water-resistant pants. Having affordable choices is important for shoppers visiting for short amounts of time who want to go tubing, snowboarding or skiing during their trip. Shoppers can find products from a variety of brands, including 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 maintain warmer body temperatures by investing in reliable, insulated and waterproof outerwear like 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 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. On select winter weekends, the store will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. 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.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Matt Sutton snowboards shreds at Recess Skate and Snow and Beech Mountain Resort’s sponsored Reckless Rail Jam.

Mountain Christmas Trail of Lights & Holiday Events

November 26-December 26th Over ﬁfteen miles of twinkling holiday lights, displays and events from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the artist haven of Bakersville and beyond.

Visit

www.amountainchristmastrailoflights.com for all of the holiday trail & event info! WINTER TIMES 2021

Proceed with caution A path to safe winter driving in the High Country

BY ANDREW COLE

popular saying in the High County is that if you don’t like the weather, wait about 10 minutes. This is especially true in the winter months, as ice, rain, fog and snow can blowing into the regions’ higher elevations with little warning. Due to the nature of western North Carolina’s weather and the impact of our winter attractions such as ski resorts and tubing parks, there is proper funding for salt trucks, scrapers and snowplows that may not be found a little farther off the mountain. However, those looking to take advantage of the High Country’s snowy landscape this winter should still come prepared to drive in adverse weather conditions. According to AAA, winter storms, bad weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter. Drivers navigating cold, wintry conditions should consider keeping a bundle of cold-weather gear and supplies in their car, such as extra food and 40

FILE PHOTO An N.C. Department of Transportation snowplow works to clear up roads in Boone. Drivers should exercise caution on snow or ice-covered High Country roads.

water, warm clothing, a flashlight, a glass scraper, blankets, medications and more. Those heading out in freezing conditions should make sure to check their tires to ensure that they are properly inflated and have plenty of tread. It is also important that drivers not use their cruise control when driving on any slippery surfaces, such as on ice and sleet. Driving in snowy weather brings with it its own set of challenges. It is suggested that unless necessary, drivers —par-

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Winter driving in the High Country is a much-needed skill set. Prepare your car for any of the many scenarios that icy conditions could throw your way.

ticularly those not used to winter conditions —

should avoid driving in the snow.

However, if one must drive in such conditions it is important to take things slowly. Always adjust your speed down to account for lower traction when driving on snow or ice. Also, drivers should always make a point to accelerate and decelerate slowly. Apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skidding. Trying to get moving too quickly may cause you to spin tires or go into a slide. Drivers should remember to allow themselves more time when coming to a stop,

as wet, slick and snowy conditions may cause your vehicle to slide. Though the High Country is home to a highly trained and professional team of first responders, accidents can happen. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers caught in a hazardous situation such as a stall out, should refer to the following tips: • Stay with your car and don’t overexert yourself. • Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light turned on. • To avoid asphyxiation from carbon monoxide poisoning, don’t run your car for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed space. If you must run your vehicle, clear the exhaust pipe of any snow and run it only sporadically — just long enough to stay warm. To learn more about driving in winter conditions, visit AAA’s website at exchange.aaa.com/ safety/driving-advice/ winter-driving-tips/ or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website at www. nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips. WINTER TIMES 2021

Outdoors fun is not off limits in the winter

BY IAN TAYLOR

here is nowhere else in the world that offers as many fun and exciting outdoor activities as the High Country, even in the winter. While many may think the winter is the season for staying in and hunkering down by the fire, it can also be a season of exploration, adventure and memorable outdoor fun. The High Country is famous for its hiking opportunities, from the intense Profile Trail to the Greenway in the middle of Boone. While not all hikes are suitable for the winter, not all of them are off limits. With the proper preparation and some common sense, hiking in the winter opens the door to a whole new world and seeing nature in a unique state when compared to the rest of the year. Winter hiking is also an excellent opportunity for nature photography. With Mother Nature using a season-exclusive palette on her canvas, there is no other time to get shots like the winter. The High Country is also famous for its abundance of skiing, snowboarding and tubing options. With Appalachian Mountain Ski Resort in Blowing Rock, Sugar Mountain Resort

WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BENJAMIN THOMAS-REID Algernon sits peacefully in the snow and takes in the view as it continues to flurry in West Jefferson.

in Banner Elk and Beech Mountain Resort located on Beech Mountain, you can find whatever winter activity best suits you. The resorts are never one-trick ponies, however, with each carrying bars, restaurants, breweries and other amenities that will help you warm up after a day on the slopes. The beauty of the High Country comes down to its connection to the nature around it. Towns like Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock were built into the mountains, with the natural curves defining the shapes of the cities. Even the roads are miniature scenic drives, while the Blue Ridge Parkway trumps them all.

For those wanting to explore the great mountaintop road, check this website for information on road closures during the winter months: www.nps. gov/blri/planyourvisit/ roadclosures.htm. While all of this may sound fun and exciting, ultimately how you enjoy the winter season is up to you. There’s nothing wrong with spending the day in a trout river, fly fishing to your heart’s content, or going for a walk in nature, but you can also keep it simple and take the kids to the front yard and enjoy the snowfall. Whatever you decide to do, the High Country will be sure to make it memorable.

PHOTO COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Skiers ride on one of the lifts up Sugar Mountain Resort over the MLK holiday weekend.

randfathe

CAMPGROUND & CABINS

Tent Sites $18-$25

Cabin Rentals $59-$129

RV Sites $35-$42

wifi hotspot • centrally located • big rig friendly

OPEN ALL YEAR

1-800-788-2582

125 Profile View Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604 www.grandfatherrv.com 41

Go for a hike,

it’s not that cold S BY IAN TAYLOR

ome may think that hiking is a strictly non-winter activity, but that could not be farther from the truth. Like many things, hiking is a fun activity that has no season, and in the winter it becomes a completely different experience. The outdoors becomes a magical place during the winter, snowfall creates beautiful environments that look straight out of an art gallery while the changes in nature can make one place you have been to 100 times seem completely new and fresh. Many people have preferred hiking spots — repeatedly going to trails they know like the back of their hand — but will not go to them if they think the weather is not right for it. The truth is that with careful planning and good decision making, nearly any hike can be done in the winter. To start, you will probably need a few more layers than if it were 70 degrees and sunny outdoors. With temperatures dropping, thicker jackets, gloves and a hat 42

PHOTO BY GARRETT PRICE Unique and interesting scenery is sure to greet the hiker who ventures into the woods outside of the summer months.

are a good start. Checking the weather is important before a hiking trip any time of year, but in the winter it is especially important. Precipitation — either rain or snow — can cause some parts of the hike to get slick while also increasing the chance of getting sick. One of the key points

to keep in mind with winter hiking is that exposed skin means two things: heat loss and frostbite. Having as much skin covered as possible will help keep you warm and avoid frozen tissue. Making sure your ears, fingers and toes stay warm is very important in winter hiking. Additionally, hand

and toe warmers are a must for staying warm and staying comfortable. When looking at cold weather gear, be sure to avoid cotton products. Cotton is notorious for taking a long time to dry, so if it gets wet it will make you miserable. At the same time, tight clothing can cause poor circulation, which is not

a good thing when you’re already cold. Also, the sun still comes out in the winter, so pack sunscreen to avoid sunburn. When it comes to food and drink, the first rule is to not forget them. The human body is a lot like a car engine, if it has fuel then it will get warm. A key to remember

with food and drinks is they are not immune from the effects of a snowy day. The water bottle or hydration reservoir you have with you can freeze up, so outdoor equipment company REI suggests keeping them insulated in a backpack and blowing back into SEE HIKE ON PAGE 44

WINTER TIMES 2021

• • • •

Summer Camps Family Fun Days Cabin Rentals Customized Retreats

Gorge has been “theDoebestRiver time of my life! Leighton, Camper Tennessee

“

doerivergorge.com

DOE RIVER GORGE...The best time of your life!

SCAN NOW TO UNLOCK THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME!

Kelsi, Camper North Carolina

“

so many friends and become a big family.

Our daughters and our son have “been involved at Doe River Gorge for many years. The opportunity for them to grow in their faith and meet great friends has been tremendous. They all really met God there. DRG has been an incredible blessing to our family.

“

This is a life-changing “experience. You make

doerivergorge.com

for Children, Teens, Families, and Groups

Frank & Kelly Weir, Orlando, Florida

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains only 1 hour from Boone, NC

220 Doe River Gorge Rd. Hampton, TN 37658 | 423.725.4010 | doerivergorge.com WINTER TIMES 2021

HIKE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42

your reservoir tube to keep it empty. Another option is to pick up a vacuum-insulated bottle, which will help keep water from freezing or keep drinks like hot tea warm. At the same time, a lot of different foods like chocolate, nuts, cheese and candy bars can succumb to the cold and be more reminiscent of bricks, so keeping them in a warm place is a good idea. Ultimately, hiking in the winter is a little more work than heading out on an April afternoon, but the reward of seeing nature in a different light is worth it in the end.

FILE PHOTO The High Country isn’t without beautiful views during the winter months, as any hike on one of the region’s countless trails would

{ Fall colors give way to a blanket of white, then come the blooms of spring. But the wonder of Grandfather Mountain knows no season. Or equal.

Book today at grandfather.com

Winter.

Wonderland.

}

GRANDFATHER® MOUNTAIN WONDERS NEVER CEASE

WINTER WONDERLAND Grandfather Mountain Winter Times 2021 Half-pg ad 9.375” x 4.5”, color

CREATIVE: Frank Ruggiero (828) 733-2013 frank@grandfather.com

WINTER TIMES 2021

Summer Times 2.qxp_Winter Times '21 11/2/21 3:11 PM Page 1

DIANNE DA V ANT &ASSOCIATES Margaret Handley,

ASID

Dianne Davant Moffitt, ASID Pamela McKay, ASID Priscilla Hyatt Councill,

ASID

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

WINTER TIMES 2021

FILE PHOTO Due to the natural conditions found in our waterways, trout fishing is of a very high quality here in the High Country.

Wade into the winter waters for BY IAN TAYLOR

et’s get this out of the way, winter is not exactly the optimal season for fly fishing — but that does not mean it is impossible. Fly fishing in the winter can at times be a bit slower than normal in the colder waters, but the fish-catching thrill is still evident as you do pull that trout out of the river, making for an even more rewarding experience. When winter rolls around, fly fishing becomes a different beast. Trout begin to slow down, with their metabolism slowing to account for lower amounts of food. But they’re out there, and that is all that matters. They are still swimming 46

FILE PHOTO Rainbow trout.

and that means they will be excited to bite down on a fly. Before you grab your waders and head into the water, you need to adjust your standard fly fishing outfit. Layers are important in the winter, so you should cover up as much exposed skin as you can to retain heat

and avoid frostbite of winter windburn. Even under the perfect conditions, safety is important in fly fishing and that does not change when the temperature does. With that, be sure to stay hydrated and grab a good breakfast before heading out. On the fishing side of

the sport, as pointed out earlier, fly fishing in the winter will be slower than normal. Part of it is down to the trout’s seasonal behavior, while bugs will not be the same. However, do not think bugs are seasonal, there are still hatches that go on in the winter that set up the season for fly

fishing. According to fly fishing publication Hatch Magazine, consider the following options for flies to bring with you when heading to the river: • Griffith’s Gnat • Prince Nymph • Girdle Bug • Copper John • Perdigon Nymph

• Woolly Bugger Boone’s Fly Shop on Depot Street in Boone is a nice, all-in-one location to fill out any fly fishing needs. For more information, go to www.booneflyshop. com, stop in at 140 S. Depot St., or call (828) 865-3474. As for picking a place to go fly fishing, there are many great spots in the Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk areas. Due South Outfitters offers guided fly fishing trips around the area so you don’t have to go out based on a hunch. They also offer a fly shop and lessons to help new fishers. For more information, visit www. duesouthoutfitters.com, stop in at 2575 N.C. 105, Suite 60 in Boone, or call (828) 355-9109. WINTER TIMES 2021

FULL SERVICE FLY FISHING SHOP LOCAL FISHING GUIDES

BRANDS WE CARRY: Sporting Traditions Since 1856

140 S. Depot Street Boone, NC 28607 // (828) 865-3474 WINTER TIMES 2021

HIGH ALERT

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE | MTNSNAPSHOTS.COM During the cold days of winter you might see deer out searching for food. This doe was aware of people taking photos of them in their natural habitat.

Now Available! The Twisted Twig Reformed Christmas Tree Discovery III Wood Stoves

Rockport Hybride Fyre Wood Stoves

Cerona Gas Fireplaces

4237 TV Deluxe Fireplaces

Wood Stoves & Fireplaces

100 High Country Square Banner Elk, NC Open: Tues-Sat 619-964-0038 thetwistedtwigantiques.com

Handcrafted from vintage wooden doors Offering a large selection of antiques and gifts!

828.262.0051 | 4912 US Hwy 421 S. | Boone, nC | www.MoUntainHoMeandHeartH.CoM

WINTER TIMES 2021

Jack Frost brings fun! Blowing Rock’s WinterFest offers family friendly, seasonal fun for young and young at heart

BY DAVID ROGERS david.rogers@mountaintimes.com

hhh. Late January in Blowing Rock. Bitter cold. Icy sidewalks. Maybe even shoveling knee-deep — or deeper — snow from driveways. Well, it’s a good thing we have Blowing Rock WinterFest from Jan. 27 to 30, 2022, to warm things up with some fun of the season! Orchestrated and produced by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce in concert with numerous community, civic and nonprofit organizations (with proceeds going to charitable causes), WinterFest is a wintertime experience not to be missed. Thousands come to Blowing Rock on WinterFest weekend to take

PHOTO SUBMITTED Evening bonfires burn at Chetola Resort during a past WinterFest.

part in the “mini-events” that make up the whole. “WinterFest gives

our visitors and local residents alike the opportunity to enjoy the fun

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS Town Tavern on Main Street has become a fixture in Blowing Rock’s hospitality industry. One reason is its participation in fun community events and activities, such as this ice sculpture entry in the 2019 WinterFest.

side of winter,” said Suzy Barker, events director for the Blowing Rock

Chamber of Commerce. Blowing Rock has ice sculptures featured

in front of participating businesses and in Memorial Park beginning Friday, Jan. 28, through the weekend. These renowned ice carvers WOW spectators with their live carving demonstration on Saturday, Jan. 29. “That’s free and fun, seeing the creativity they bring to those. And there are several ice carving demonstrations, all free, throughout the weekend, too,” said Barker. By Saturday, Jan. 29, activities are in full swing. “Nothing warms the mind, body and soul like a good Chili Challenge, and thanks to The Rotary Club of Blowing Rock, several competing restaurants will be putting up their best efforts,” said SEE WINTERFEST ON PAGE 52

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE Entrees such as Hellbender’s Carolina Burger were served up with draft beer or a glass of wine as part of the WinterFest restaurant crawl.

WINTER TIMES 2021

Leatherwood Mountains Resort WWW.LEATHERWOODMOUNTAINS.COM

800-4NC-MTNS

GATED MOUNTAIN LIVING, 18 MILES FROM BOONE! - Real Estate & Log Home Sales - Year-Round Vacation Rentals -Weddings & Groups - Restaurant & Bar - Premier Equine Facilities - Extensive Trail System - Tennis Courts - Swimming Pool - Hot Tubs - Fly Fishing - Biking & Tubing -

Homes & Land Available Land starting in the $30's

Contact Trevor Whitson To Preview ALL Our Listings

Trail Rides WINTER TIMES 2021

$899,000

$979,000

$1,150,000

$450,000 51

WINTERFEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 50

Barker. “All proceeds go to Rotary’s various charitable causes, and they range from Hospitality House and the Hunger Coalition to OASIS, and toward a host of other great needs.” Ever wonder what it would be like as a frontiersman or Native American in 1700? “Mystery Hill hosts the WinterHawk tomahawk throwing competition in which anyone can participate,” said Barker. “Before you holler out a war howl as you throw at the target and hit a bullseye, imagining that it is the enemy (or tonight’s dinner) coming into view on the trail ahead, make sure that gentleman throwing in the lane next to you isn’t wearing a hearing aid!” There is so much more to WinterFest. The Polar Plunge is expected to be back with a splash into Chetola Lake! If you’re one of the brave, sign up before it’s too late, as limited space is available. Coming out of the pandemic, some features of WinterFest are still evolving. Stay up to date with the WinterFest schedule of events from Jan. 27 to 30 at www.blowingrockwinterfest.com.

FILE PHOTO Brad Parrott of Mint Hill, S.C. jumps into Chetola Lake as part of the Polar Bear Plunge. 52

FILE PHOTO Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce members and nonprofit representatives pose with a check for $26,500, raised from the Blowing Rock WinterFest events from Jan. 23 to 26, 2020. Pictured are PJ Wirchansky, Karen Marinelli, Patti Jupiter, Caroline Davis, Jennifer Brown, Zak Amar, Rhona Smith, Mike Page, Joyce Zellner, Dana Clark, Zika Rea, Emily Brinker, Todd Carter and Ronnie Mark.

FILE PHOTO Curtis Thompson and his dog Charlie Thompson take part in a race at the K9 Keg Pull at the 2020 Blowing Rock WinterFest on Saturday, Jan. 23.

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS Bigfoot made an appearance on Main Street, in front of Sunset Tees & Hattery for WinterFest 2021. WINTER TIMES 2021

WINTER TIMES 2021

Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival celebrates successful downtown return in 2021

BY JAMIE SHELL

espite uncharacteristically warm temperatures leading up to the festival weekend, Mother Nature flipped a switch to bring back typical fall weather, as a wet and damp beginning to the opening day of the 44th Annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival on Saturday, Oct. 16, gave way to a cooler afternoon to close the first day, with sun reigning on Sunday to close the two days of activities. Thousands of visitors flocked again to downtown Banner Elk on both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 16 and 17, following a 2020 festival that was curtailed to a single race in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With returning patrons came the other facets of the festival that attendees know and love, including the more than 150 arts and crafts vendors selling their wares to food vendors providing tantalizing aromas and palate satisfiers, with everything from doughnuts to barbecue available on offer. Also present were various local organizations who pitched in to make 54

2021-22 WORMY WINTER WEATHER FORECAST

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

the event take place, with efforts that ranged from raising funds through offering parking services near the festival grounds in town to the regular and repeated collection of trash throughout the weekend that accumulated on the festival grounds by longtime festival supporters the Civil Air Patrol. “The event was awesome, despite the rain on

Saturday,” Avery Chamber of Commerce Director Anne Winkleman said of the atmosphere, camaraderie and the success of the festival. “There was so much excitement up on the stage, and the weather didn’t slow anybody down. There was so much pent-up excitement.” The stars of the weekend, and each festival for more than four decades now, are the woolly

worms themselves, as they attempt to wiggle their way up a three-foot string for glory (and cash for the winning owners). Following an arduous day of racing, the last worm standing following dozens of quarterfinal and semifinal races over the day was owned/trained by Eric Wood from Hickory, who took home the $1,000 grand prize. Wood stated that he

By virtue of its victory in the championship race at the 2021 Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival, the winning worm predicts the upcoming 13 weeks of winter weather by virtue of the colors or shades of the 13 worm segments, each representing a week of winter. This year’s victorious worm was owned by Eric Wood of Hickory. Local celebrity and longtime woolly worm adjudicator Tommy Burleson shared what the winning worm prognosticates for the coming season. Section / Week 1 — Black, below average temperatures Section / Week 2 — Fleck, below average temps, light snow Section / Week 3 — Black, below average temps Section / Week 4 — Black, below average temps Section / Week 5 — Light brown, “autumn color,” above average temps Section / Week 6 — Light brown, “autumn color,” above average temps Section / Week 7 — Dark brown, average temps Section / Week 8 — Darn brown, average temps Section / Week 9 — Dark brown, average temps Section / Week 10 — Light brown, above average temps Section / Week 11 — Light brown, above average temps Section / Week 12 — Light brown, above average temps Section / Week 13 — Fleck, below average temps, light snow came to the festival thanks to a suggestion from a family member. “I didn’t even think about it, what I would spend the money on when I bought a $2 worm. That’s like a 500% return on investment!” Wood said after the win and claiming the $1,000 in cold hard cash. The festival boasted more than 150 Art and Craft Vendors, along with numerous food vendors, live entertainment, games and more. According to

Winkelman, sales went well with many of the vendors on site, as well as with advance E-ticket sales, of which almost 1,200 tickets were sold prior to the festival, more than double the total sold in the festival’s first year of using the online ticketing service option in 2019. “All of the vendors had an incredible sales event,” Winkelman said. “We had an amazing weekend. The SEE FESTIVAL ON PAGE 55

WINTER TIMES 2021

FESTIVAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54

food vendors did really well and had long lines. Even in the rain, we had numerous vendors who sold out. I was amazed with how many people braved the rain for this awesome event.” An event to carry on for more than 40 years successfully depends on many people to form a team. Winkelman shared that this year’s festival was no exception, as numerous individuals, groups and organizations from various sectors were instrumental to bringing the festival back to what regular annual attendees are familiar with and enjoy, as well as providing the sort of first-time experience that new attendees will not soon forget. “So many groups were important and made the event work so well. The Civil Air Patrol were fantastic. The Boy Scouts were great. We had the Ladies Auxiliary of the Banner Elk Fire Department who worked really hard. Cycle 4 Life, Doug

Owen and his whole family all worked throughout the festival,” Winkelman explained. “My family, including my husband and I, my mom and my friend all were busy working. Mary Jo Brubaker did a fantastic job as we worked together in putting on the festival. She was awesome and also had all of her family working there. The FFA did a good job with us, and though we had less volunteers than we have had in past years, the ones who volunteered did an awesome job and double duty. Talia Freeman from Beech Mountain did a tremendous job, the Educators sorority were fantastic, and the Avery High School Key Club were a great help. We can’t thank those folks enough, and many others, for what they did throughout the weekend.” The trio of Adam Binder, Jason Dewitt and Shawn Stricklen served together in providing commentary during the races and as the general Masters of Ceremonies for the weekend, as several dozen heats of races were carried out in order to get to the grand champion at the conclusion of the day on Saturday afternoon.

Centrally located between Boone and Banner Elk on HWY 105 South in Foscoe

Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk partners with the Avery Chamber each year to operate the festival weekend, and proceeds from the event are split between the two organizations. Kiwanis utilizes its funds toward the awarding of grants for area groups and organizations each year. Doug Owen, President with the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club, was quick to offer praise for the execution of this year’s event after last year’s pared-down festival. “It was great to see the festival in full swing again in 2021. It is our biggest fundraiser of the year and from the funds we are able to generate, Kiwanis gives back to the community through grants,” Owen said. “Anne from the Chamber is a real go-getter, and with this being her first festival, she did a fantastic job. She set up a live phone call with The Weather Channel on Sunday morning. The vendors all seemed happy with their sales, even with the Saturday rain. Many of us feel that is was our biggest Sunday in a long time.” Following the festival, Owen and a

number of others organized a release of the worms that were used from the event back into a natural habitat around Banner Elk to live out their days before eventually metamorphosing into the Isabella tiger moth. “For me the official worm release after the festival was extra special,” Owen added. For patron and organizer alike, the Woolly Worm Festival was a welcome sight for sore eyes, a hopeful harbinger that normalcy beyond the previous 18 months may be on the horizon. “Every person I spoke to, customers and vendors, were so excited to be out. They felt safe there, and there was no frustrations by anyone. More than five vendors told me that this was the most money they had made at any festival they had been to all year,” Winkelman explained. “Two things I’ll remember from the festival are the long doughnut lines and the long line to get shirts from Don Iverson’s booth. Those were the most popular places. We all had such a good time this weekend.”

828-898-3647 shop 828-260-7067 cell 94 High Country Sq. Banner Elk NC Angie Jones: Owner/Groomer

WINTER TIMES 2021

349 Sunset Dr, Blowing Rock • (828) 414-9813

Unique Gifts & Home Furnishings

Unique accents for your home & patio Open 7 days a week • 828.295.3330 1151 Main Street • Blowing Rock

www.gregoryalans.com

1121 Main St, Blowing Rock • (828) 295-3155 6

239 SUNSET DR - BLOWING ROCK, NC

(828) 295-3487

WINTER TIMES 2021

BLOWING ROCK ESTATE JEWELRY FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1988

Specializing in

Custom Design

LAUREL LANE

132 Morris Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605

1 4

2 5

WINTER TIMES 2021

A Boone A Boone Original Original Since 1988 Since 1988 ServingServing Breakfast Breakfast and Lunch and Lunch ALL DAY ALL DAY

Appalachian Antique Mall

Climbing Guides

Largest Antique Mall in the High Country Military to Majolica, Pottery to Pocket Watches 631 W. King Street • Historic Downtown Boone (828) 268-9988 • Open 7 Days A Week

Rock Dimensions Climbing & Adventure Guides

Omelettes Omelettes Homemade Salads Homemade Salads Flavored Flavored Cream Cheese Cream Cheese Sandwiches Sandwiches Burgers Burgers Menu Vegetarian Vegetarian Menu Gluten Free Bagels

Now Offering Now Offering

Fresh Squeezed

Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice, Orange Juice, Espressos, Espressos, Cappuccinos & Cappuccinos & Roasted Locally Locally Roasted Coffee Coffee

Gluten Free Bagels Mon-Sun 7am - 2pm 262-5585 Mon-Sun 7:00am 3:00pmOut & Delivery Call for-Take 262-5585 516 W. King St. Call for Take Major Cards Accepted Out Credit & Delivery

516 W. King St.

Major Credit Cards Accepted

and Climbing Gear Shop

More info on Rock Climbing page

828-265-3544

131-B S. Depot St. · Boone, NC 28607

WINTER TIMES 2021

YOUR TRUSTED, hometown Because we care.

jewelers.

VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES USED FURNITURE CLOTHES • BOOKS GREAT SELECTION FRIENDLY FACES!

Ram’s Rack THRIFT SHOP Monday-Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm 877 West King St. • 828-262-5029

A 501-(3)C Organization • Donations Accepted SPONSORED BY RESORT AREA MINISTRIES

Downtown Boone across from the Post Office | www.VillageJewelersLtd.com | 828-264-6559

888

jewelry pottery furniture glassware primitives

NOW OPEN

199 howard st • 828-262-1957 • open 7 days a week

7 4

WINTER TIMES 2021

www.ValleCrucis.com

Dutch Creek Trails 828-297-7117

St. John’s Church ca. 1858

A haven for travelers since the 1800s, Valle Crucis, a National Rural Historic District, offers shops, beautiful bed and breakfast inns, delicious cuisine, wine tasting, rustic cabins, horseback riding, adventure and more.

Little Red School House ca. 1907

Original Mast General Store Est. 1883 828-963-6511

Rivercross Made in USA 828-963-8623

Over Yonder Restaurant & Bar 828-963-6301

Valle Crucis Conference Center Est. 1842 828-963-4453

Mast Store Annex Outfitters & Candy Barrel ca. 1909 828-963-6511

Mast Farm Inn Lodging & Restaurant ca. 1812 828-963-5857

Taylor House Inn Bed & Breakfast ca. 1911 800-963-5581

Valle Crucis Community Web Directory Dutch Creek Trails - dutchcreektrails.com Mast Farm Inn - themastfarminn.com Mast General Store - mastgeneralstore.com Over Yonder - overyondernc.com Rivercross Made in USA - rivercrossmadeinusa.com Taylor House Inn - taylorhouseinn.com Valle Crucis Conference Center - vcconferences.org

WINTER TIMES 2021

DINNER Daily starting at 5pm Full Bar Apparel, Accessories, Apparel, Accessories, Collars & Leashes Collars & Leashes Frozen Raw &Raw & Frozen Freeze DriedDried Foods Foods Freeze High Quality Dog &Dog Cat Food High Quality & Cat Food

awneehaw Ave. wneehaw Ave. 8-898-5625 898-5625 endsbarkery.com ndsbarkery.com

turday 10:00 - 6:00 day - Closed.

Private Room Available

Banner Elk

Homemade Dog Treats Homemade Dog Treats & USA Sourced Treats Treats & USA Sourced Toys for Training & Play & Play Toys for Training

828-898-5550

344 Shawneehaw Ave S. • Banner Elk, NC 28604

Patricia Lambert Combs

Holistic Supplements Holistic Supplements DIY DIY Pet Wash Pet Wash

176 Shawneehaw Ave. 828-898-5625 mybestfriendsbarkery.com Monday-Saturday 10:00 - 6:00 Sunday - Closed

Apparel, Accessories, Collars & Leashes Tuesday 12-4PM Frozen Raw & Wed-Sat 10am-5pm Freeze Dried Foods 155 Banner Rd., Banner Elk 828-898-4441 | www.beoliveoil.com High Quality Dog & Cat Food Homemade Dog Treats & USA Sourced Treats Toys for Training & Play Holistic Supplements Voted Best Realtor DIY Pet Wash in Avery County!

Tuesday 12-5PM | Wed-Sat 10am-5pm Tuesday 12-5PM | Wed-Sat 10am-5pm 155 Banner Rd.,Rd., Banner Elk Elk 155 Banner Banner 828-898-4441 | www.beoliveoil.com 828-898-4441 | www.beoliveoil.com

REALTOR/Broker 3616 Mitchel Ave. Unit 3 • Linville, NC

828-260-6932 trishpmre@gmail.com

My Reputation is on the SOLD SIGN

• Nationally Connected • Regionally Recognized • Locally Owned & Operated

Tuesday 12-4pm Wed-Sat 10am-5pm 155 Banner Rd., Banner Elk 828-898-4441 | www.beoliveoil.com

THE VILLAGE of Banner Elk

The Best of Dining, Entertainment & Lodging in the heart of Banner Elk, North Carolina!

BannerElkVillage.com

WINTER TIMES 2021

140 Azalea Circle,Banner Elk, NC 28604

828-898-5214

MEMORIES START IN ASHE COUNTY MAKE ASHE COUNTY CHEESE YOUR FIRST STOP WHILE VISITING ASHE COUNTY

• See Cheese Made! • Great Gift Ideas • Tour Groups & Buses Welcome

Visit us year round 8:30am-5:30pm - Mon.-Sat

ashecountycheese.com | 336-246-2501 106 E. Main St. , West Jefferson NC

ashepostandtimes.com

Open Monday - Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Cabin or Castle – We’ll Furnish It! for over 40 years

301 East Main Street Jefferson, NC 28640

(336) 846-1904 ashehistory.org

ASHE COUNTY

• • • • • • • •

Grab and Go Breakfast Free 24hr Tea & Coffee Free Hot Chocolate Free Wi-Fi Free Parking Space Free Business Center Free Fitness Center Limited Meeting Room Facility

Every Room Needs a Splash of Color

203 Hampton Place Ct. West Jefferson, NC

336-846-4000

Mon-Fri 9-5PM Sat. 9-3PM Free Local Delivery • Lift Chairs in Stock 336-384-2929 • www.jimscornerfurniture.com 160 Northwest School Rd • Warrensville, NC

WINTER TIMES 2021

Stay a day. Stay a night.

WINTER TIMES 2021

COLD BEVERAGES TOBACCO

Clothing for all ages and sizes. Furniture for every room of your house. Free furniture donation pickup. All types of household furnishings including art. Located across from the Avery Animal Hospital.

PRODUCE SNACKS BEER & WINE LOTTERY

NOW SERVING

Come and Drive Thru! 350 Pineola St, Newland, NC 28657

(828) 742-1541

Patricia Lambert Combs REALTOR/Broker 3616 Mitchel Ave. Unit 3 • Linville, NC

828-260-6932

Voted Best Realtor in Avery County!

trishpmre@gmail.com

My Reputation is on the SOLD SIGN

• Nationally Connected • Regionally Recognized • Locally Owned & Operated

Avery County’s community connection. Your local online and print news source. www.averyjournal.com 828-733-2448 428 Pineola Street Newland, NC 28657

WINTER TIMES 2021

HDTV’S FROM 19”-85”

Certified Phone/ Tablet And R/C Repair

We Offer

       

QLED HD TV’s Car Audio JVC, Pioneer, and Sony LapTops & PC’s Tablets Hobby Grade RC Cars Home Theater Surround Sound Memory Cards

WINTER TIMES 2021

More Choices

520 Pineola Street Newland NC 28657 828-733-5718

         

Printers & Ink Phone accessories TV Antennas Scanners CB Hunting Radios Electronic Tools Cellphone boosters Security Cameras Bluetooth Speakers Wireless Earbuds

Burnsville,

the Treasure of Western North Carolina. Shopping • Fine and Casual Dining • Entertainment Scenic Views, Hiking, and more!

The perfect style for every occasion

120 W Main Street Burnsville, NC 28714 (828) 284-6036

WINTER TIMES 2021

Burnsville,

the Treasure of Western North Carolina.

Shopping • Fine and Casual Dining • Entertainment • Scenic Views, Hiking, and more! GLOBALLY SOURCED NEW & VINTAGE DÉCOR, HAND-KNOTTED RUGS, JEWELRY & GIFTS

17 West Main St. Burnsville, NC 28714

STORE HOURS Monday - Saturday 10am-5pm & Closed on Sundays

828-536-5193

5 Town Square Burnsville, North Carolina

www.yummiyarns.com

yummiyarns@gmail.com

828-536-5556 Hello@TheColorfulGypsy.com www.thecolorfulgypsy.com

Show this coupon for

20% off all vintage.

The Colorful Gypsy Appalachian Java

Munch Box

Main Street Shoes

Cast Iron Mountain Kitchen Times on Main St

The Lamp Post Antique Market

t ree

Court Street

n St

ai st M

West Main Street

t tree

ain S

tM Wes

Town Square

Hammond Antiques

Ray Stre et

per C oo eet

St r

Fill-More

WINTER TIMES 2021

Burnsville, NC 69

Daytrip through

Mountain City, Tennessee

Antique Shops, Clothing and Jewelry, Wine and Liquor, Trails, & Lakes.

Locally owned & operated by Tom & Becky Stanley

Largest selection of wine and spirits in the high country! Mon-Thurs 9:00-9:00 • Fri - Sat 9:00-10:00 • Sun 12:00-9:00.

1123 S. Shady St. Mountain City, TN 423-727-4774

Drive-Thru now open! 10% off Wine Wednesday Voted Best Liquor Store Readers Choice 2020

(423) 727-WINE • (423) 727-9463 • 1123 South Shady Street, Mtn. City, TN

Locally made hand-dyed yarns and yarns from around the world. Art and craft supplies sewing, quilting fabric and needle felting

423-460-1561

117 Village Square Ln. Mountain City, TN

minkcrafts.com

Pick Me Up for

FREE

in Mountain City Every Thursday 70

WINTER TIMES 2021

Camping • Dining Gem Mining • Shopping www.downtownspruce pine • www.craftyouradventure.com

Now Offering

Delta 8 and

Kratom!

CBD Oils, Salves & Vapes Crystal Healing Therapy Certified Organic Herbs Books & DVDs Organic Foods All-Natural Personal Care Products Locally Handcrafted Jewelry Premium Incense & Smudging Supplies Aromatherapy & Herbal Consultations Crystals & Gemstones Home Decor, Gifts, & More 209 Locust Street, Suite A • Spruce Pine, NC 28777 828-520-1253 • poppyswildcraft.com Hef’s Poppy’s Wildcraft

Spruce Pine

Lakeview Mercantile and Gardens

Al wy

p ta

19E

North Toe River

ta p

226

1120

1161 S 226 Hwy Spruce Pine, NC 28777

828-765-9151

226

1119 1243

Credit: Google Maps

Western Sizzlin

COMPLETE LINE OF CHRISTMAS DECOR AND GIFTS Lots of Unique Gift Ideas and Merchandise •Toy Shop • Honey • Canned Goods • Candles

Don’t forget to feed the birds! Full line of feeders and birdseed. Greenhouse open year round! WINTER TIMES 2021

Spruce Pine, NC | 828.765.9133 Open 9:00-5:00 Mon-Sat

Check Facebook for changing winter hours 71

Highlander’s Grill & Tavern Great Food, Cold Beer and Awesome Spirits. Join us Fridays for Karaoke and Saturdays for live music. 4527 Tynecastle Hwy 828.898.9513

The Dande Lion We are a unique fashion boutique catering to women of various shapes and styles. Celebrating 23 years of business in the High Country! 4501 Tynecastle Hwy, Suite 12 828.898.3566

Tynecastle Realty tynecastlerealty.com 828.898.7777

For Leasing Information Call 828.898.6246

WINTER TIMES 2021

Amy Brown, CPA P.C. Certified Public Accountant Amy Brown, CPA Certified Public Accountant 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

PO Box 21239 4501 Tynecastle Hwy, Suite 16 browncpa@skybest.com 828.898.7601

Salon Suites at Tynecastle Salon M 828.898.3719 Avery County Chamber of Commerce www.averycounty.com info@averycounty.com 828.898.5605 Valle de Bravo Mexican Grill valledebravomexicangrill.net 828.898.4949 BB&T www.BBandT.com 828.BBT-ONLINE

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

Walgreens Pharmacy and Photo Services 4059 NC Hwy 105 South 828.898.8971

Bank of America ATM Location

State Employees’ Credit Union ATMLocation

C r e at i ve I n t e ri o rs

Creative Interiors Interior Desing Service · Furnishings, Lighting, and Art Gifts, Accessories, and More 4501 Tynecastle Hwy, Suite 4 828.898.9636 WINTER TIMES 2021

Sky Mountain Nail Bar 336-255-5688 73

WINTER TIMES 2021

HOME ...let us ﬁnd yours in the heart of the High Country.

WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO COURTESY OF KATE PRISCO | TOWN OF BEECH MOUNTAIN The ’stars‘ from the Beech Mountain Volunteer Fire Department grace the inaugural Beech Mountain Christmas parade in 2020.

Holiday happenings in the High Country BY MARISA MECKE

he most wonderful time of the year is in full swing during the holiday season in the High Country. Celebrations for many holidays take place throughout the region during the winter months, ranging from craft festivals to the 76

annual reopening of the area’s many winter sports facilities. In Boone, holiday festivities will kickoff on December 3 with the Festive First Friday. Featuring the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Jones House on King Street, the event will start the holiday season on a high note. Over in Blowing Rock,

the holiday season starts with an early kickoff the Friday after Thanksgiving from 1 to 6 p.m. on November 26. The Blowing Rock Christmas in the Park and Lighting of the Town takes place at Memorial Park in downtown Blowing Rock and is free to all visitors. With hayrides, games and crafts, a gingerbread house contest and

more, the festival is a great start to the holiday season. To learn more, visit blowingrock.com/ christmas-park. At 2 p.m. on December 11, the Town of Boone will host its annual Christmas Parade on King Street. Traveling east on King Street beginning at the Poplar Grove Connector and ending at Hardin Street,

community groups of all kinds will partake in the annual holiday spectacle. In Banner Elk, Apple Hill Farm will host guests for its Christmas at Apple Hill Farm from Nov. 19, 2021, to Jan. 2, 2022, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can participate in a guided tour of the working alpaca farm

decorated for the holiday season and enjoy all the farm has to offer. To learn more, call (828) 963-1662 or visit www. applehillfarmnc.com. Up in Banner Elk the Christmas cheer does not stop at the Apple Hill Farm. From December 3 to 5, the town SEE HOLIDAY ON PAGE 77

WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO BY LUKE BARBER Downtown Banner Elk illuminated in a display of Christmas lights.

HOLIDAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 76

will celebrate “A Small Town Christmas in Banner Elk,” setting the tone for the cheery holiday season with a tree lighting, performances of Ensemble Stage’s “A Banner Elk Christmas,” a 5K Reindeer Run and more throughout the weekend. To learn more, click to https://www.bannerelk. com/latest-news/a-small-townchristmas. Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music hosts an annual Christmas concert and will return in-person this year at 7:30 p.m. on December 18 to the Appalachian Theater of the High Country. Featuring Zoe and Cloyd and the Mountain Home Bluegrass Boys, the concert’s proceeds will benefit HospiWINTER TIMES 2021

tality House and Santa’s Toy Box, two nonprofits in the area. To learn more and see updates, click to mountainhomemusic.com. There are a variety of light shows throughout the country during the holiday season. For spectacular views, visitors can partake in light shows in any corner of the region. Opening to the public on November 26, the Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock will continue to bring holiday cheer all the way through the end of the Blowing Rock WinterFest on Jan. 30, 2022. There is no entrance fee or reservations required, but visitors can click to https://chetola.com/events/festival-of-lights to learn more and plan their trip. Although information has yet to be released, officials at Linville Land Harbor have confirmed the community will also host their 12

Nights of Christmas light show this year as well. Atop Beech Mountain, at 4 p.m. on December 22, the Town of Beech Mountain and the Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation department will host the community’s annual Christmas parade. Starting at the Beech Mountain Resort, the parade will follow Beech Mountain Parkway and conclude at the White Wolf Lodge. To learn more or inquire about joining the parade, call the Beech Mountain Visitors Center at (828) 387-3003. While this list is extensive, there are plenty more holiday events everywhere in the High Country for families and friends to enjoy. Taking in crisp winter air in the mountains, there is no way to go wrong celebrating the holidays in the High Country.

FILE PHOTO The Christmas tree in front of town hall in downtown Blowing Rock. 77

High Country

Christmas light displays illuminate the night

BY MARISA MECKE

time-honored tradition, viewing dazzling Christmas displays is a great way to see the High Country in a new light. Whether you are walking through your neighborhood or visiting a famous light show, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, this is a family friendly and safely distanced activity the whole family will love.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT CHETOLA RESORT

Featuring glittering ice skaters, Rudolph reeling in a big fish at the lake, a big group of carolers and more, the Festival of Lights at the Chetola Resort offers a spectacular light show throughout the season. Opening to the public on November 26, the lights will continue to bring holiday cheer all the way through the end of the Blowing Rock WinterFest on Jan. 30, 2022. There is no entrance fee or reservations required, but visitors can click to https://chetola.com/events/festival-of-lights/ to learn more and plan their trip.

LINVILLE LAND HARBOR 12 NIGHTS OF CHRISTMAS

Back after a year hiatus due to COVID-19, officials at Linville Land Harbor have confirmed the 12 Nights

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

of Christmas event will return for 2021. To learn more, call Linville Land Harbor at (828) 733-8300.

HIGH COUNTRY LIGHTS IN GALAX, VA.

Kicking off the evening of Thanksgiving, the High Country Lights in Galax, Va. waste no time getting into the holiday spirit. Free to the public, visitors can enjoy a large display or holiday lights as well as carriage

rides, music, food and more from Nov. 25, 2021 through Jan. 2, 2022. The light show is choreographed to music broadcasting on a local, SEE DISPLAYS ON PAGE 80

WINTER TIMES 2021

winter magic

E xperience

M ay b e it ’s b e i n g i n th e Blu e R i dge M o u ntai ns. M ay b e it ’s waki n g u p to c risp, m o u ntai n ai r i n a b eautifu l sp ot. W hateve r it is, al l ow C h eto la Reso r t to b e you r “Haven of Rest ” Co m e ex p e rie n ce th e mag i c fo r you rself. | CH ETO L A .CO M WINTER TIMES 2021

DISPLAYS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78

low-power radio station, 95.9FM. Located at Felts Park in Galax, Va., the lights are a stop just north of North Carolina on the Blue Ridge Parkway. In case of poor weather, the displays will be turned off as a safety precaution. Visitors are advised to check www.facebook.com/HighCountryLights or call (336) 756-7529 for more information before visiting.

SHADRACK’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

With light shows in many different cities across the southeast, Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is a company that specializes in creating holiday magic. In the High Country region, those looking to catch one of the light shows can visit Johnson City, Tenn., as well as Charlotte and Tyron, N.C. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland takes on a drive-through format, featuring a variety of tunnels and light displays for cars to pass through and gaze at. An orchestra of lights, the displays are also timed with music to create an immersive experience. In Johnson City, riders will enjoy the High Country Fairgrounds lit up with thousands of twinkling lights from Nov. 24, 2021 to Jan. 2, 2022. Although the drivers at this location usually drive quickly, Christmas light viewers at the Charlotte Motor Speedway will slow down for the holiday views from Nov. 19, 2021, to Jan. 2, 2022. The Tryon International Equestrian Center will host the Shadrack’s Christmas Light Show every evening from Nov. 23, 2021 to Jan. 2, 2022. To learn more about all the loca80

FILE PHOTO Two of the many displays at Chetola Resort’s Festival of Lights.

tions of Shadrack’s Christmas Light Shows and reserve tickets, click to https://shadrackchristmas.com.

SPEEDWAY IN LIGHTS AT BMS

The region’s most dazzling holiday light show returns to Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway. The Pinnacle Speedway In Lights, Powered by TVA,

kicks off its 25th season with more lights and a route that offers visitors the chance to take a lap around “The World’s Fastest Half-Mile.” Holiday light seekers will circle the concrete oval as part of their festive drive and also may visit the Christmas Village, which returns to its popular infield location.

Witness the wonder of a 4-mile trek through 3 million Lights at The Pinnacle Speedway in Lights at Bristol Motor Speedway. The event is available from 6 to 10 p.m. Nov. 12, 2021, to Jan. 1, 2022. For tickets or more information, visit https://www. bristolmotorspeedway.com/tickets/ pinnacle-speedway-in-lights/. WINTER TIMES 2021

LinvilleLandHarbor.com

EMBRACE YOUR IDEAL MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLE. LinvilleLandHarbor.com WINTER TIMES 2021

Winter season is one of wonders at

Grandfather Mountain BY JAMIE SHELL

ach year, thousands of visitors flock to the High Country to take in the scenic wonder that is Grandfather Mountain. While the vast majority of tourists visit the mountain during the spring, summer and fall seasons, those who choose to come during the winter months are in for a unique experience unlike any other time of the year at the Linville, NC, nature park. “Winter is a time to see the mountain in a completely different light, both literally and figuratively,” GFM Stewardship Foundation Director of Marketing and Communications Frank Ruggiero said. “It’s often a little more secluded, it’s a little more quiet and you beat all the crowds that you normally find in spring, summer and fall. Oftentimes, when you’re out there on a nice winter day, it feels like you have the entire mountain to yourself.” While the landscape may look dramatically different, visitors can enjoy many of the same attractions that are hallmarks of the mountain’s offerings, albeit with a seasonal touch. 82

PHOTO BY SKIP SICKLER | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION While the landscape may look dramatically different during wintertime, visitors can enjoy many of the same attractions that are Grandfather Mountain’s hallmarks.

From crossing the MileHigh Swinging Bridge and visiting the animals in their habitats to exploring the GFM Nature Museum and grabbing a bite to eat at Mildred’s Grill. “Winter is still one of the most amazing times to

visit Grandfather,” Ruggiero added. “From the otters frolicking on their frozen pond to the snowy winter vistas to the beautiful landscapes seen from the 360-degree panoramic views at the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, it’s

really hard to beat winter on Grandfather Mountain. We do still refer to this time of year as the ‘secret season’ because people don’t necessarily expect to visit us during this time, but when they do, they are often pleasantly surprised.

You should really visit your Grandfather in every season.” Although the climate is cooler than its summer counterpart, the mountain offers a different slant on regular activities such as hiking the various trails on

Grandfather. “We’ve had some really busy days in December when the weather warms up. In the winter months, the park tends to be less crowded, so it offers visiSEE GFM ON PAGE 83

WINTER TIMES 2021

GFM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 82

tors room to breathe, and at times, it feels like they have the mountain to themselves,” Ruggiero said. “Winter is a time where you get to share the solitude.” Ruggiero also expressed excitement regarding the upcoming completion of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, expected to be fully constructed and open to the public in early 2022. “It’s an exciting new conservation campus that is going to nearly double the size of the current nature museum, offering all-new, state-of-the-art exhibits, interactive exhibits, hands-on activities for visitors of all ages,” Ruggiero added. “We’ll also have new interactive educational classrooms and new speaker space. The auditorium is also being renovated, so it’s going to be quite the experience. We’ll also have an outdoor terrace pavilion to watch speakers and a botanical gardens. It’s really going to be outstanding.” From the attraction’s otters to its elk,

WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Grandfather Mountain’s resident river otters love playing in the snow. From burrowing tunnels to sliding around on their bellies to ice skating on their frozen pond, their antics delight many a wintertime visitor to the mountain’s environmental wildlife habitats.

the winter season, and accompanying snowfall, is a veritable natural playground. Visitors have the opportunity during the season to see animals actively enjoying the powder and, in turn, is a fulfilling form of fun for all to see. “All of our animals are well taken care

PHOTO BY SKIP SICKLER | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Rime ice coats a tree atop Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak.

of during the winter. Of course the bears go into hibernation, but our other animals tend to thrive in it,” Ruggiero explained.

“The otters couldn’t be happier. Often they’ll tunnel through the snow. When the pond freezes, they’ll slide rocks back and forth and play ‘otter hockey.’ The cougars like to chase each other as well. The elk love to trot on the snow and get a feel for the cool as well. When the elk first came to us at Grandfather Mountain it was snowing, so they’re pretty accustomed to that.” For those seeking unique gifts for the holidays, the mountain’s gift shop offers unique gift opportunities, including local arts and crafts, GFM merchandise and homemade fudge made on-site using sustainable practices. For the true animal lover, there are also adoption and sponsorship opportunities that will directly benefit the creatures who call the mountain home. “You can symbolically adopt an animal and give that to someone as a gift,” Ruggiero said. “Depending on the level of adoption, they’ll receive a special box that could include a plush animal, an adoption certificate, a biography of the animal, a SEE GFM ON PAGE 84

GFM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 83

cast footprint and more. For more information on how to adopt an animal, visit www.grandfather.com/ support/give/adopt-an-animal/. Patrons are encouraged to call before visiting, and the attraction also maintains its updated website with up-to-date alerts regarding opening and hours. “Grandfather Mountain is an incredible place to visit in any season,” Ruggiero continued. “Be it sun, snow, fog or rain, the mountain’s perfect for making mile-high memories.” While the mountain offers a variety of specialized winter programs for visitors, the scheduling of those activities had not been finalized as of the printing of Winter Times. For an updated schedule of programs, click to www.grandfather.com/ plan-your-visit. Weather permitting, Grandfather Mountain is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day in winter, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. In cases of severe weather,

the park opening is delayed until all roads and paths can be cleared of snow and ice. As has been the case with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, advance ticket purchases are the best way to ensure entrance to Grandfather Mountain and is recommended. “We do offer limited in-person tickets during the week, but we cannot guarantee those. The only way to guarantee your spot is visiting our website at grandfather. com and booking your time slot,” Ruggiero explained. “Reservations are required for weekend visits, and is also the only way to take advantage of the discounts, such as AAA, senior, military, etc. is through the website.” A phone call to the entrance gate at (828) 733-4337 can confirm the day’s conditions and set the stage for a memorable outing, making sure everything is in peak condition prior to your visit. “We’re a fun place to visit, no matter the weather,” Ruggiero said. “It’s always beauPHOTO BY HUGH MORTON | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION At Grandfather Mountain, winter is often referred to as the ‘secret season,’ as tiful here, regardless of the season. We fewer crowds and the accompanying quiet make the mountain feel like one’s just continue to do what we can to bridge own personal winter wonderland. education and outdoor fun.”

"I DARE YOU"

To find a better Life Insurance Rate than what we offer for someone between age 45-75 that needs at least 1m-20m term or permanent cash value life insurance policy. Death benefit is generally 100% income tax-free, all paid in cash!

"I DARE YOU"

To find a better rate of return than what I can offer you on a minimum of $250,000 that you now have in Cash, Money Market, CD, IRA, or your 401-k vs. our fixed single premium deferred annuity.

Mark S. Mears CLU® President

Mears & Associates 3905 Fort Henry Dr. Kingsport Tenn 37663

Personal Cell 423-361-9119 or 800-441-4648

“A friend of the High Country residents since 1984”

www.thenautilusgroup.com 84

WINTER TIMES 2021

BATTERY POWER. MADE BY STIHL.

Save time and money

with the right tools for any job

Come see why Watauga County voted us the Best of the Best Eight Years Running!

Farmers Rentals and Power has everything you need to make your property the envy of all your neighbors. Lawn and garden hand tools, a huge selection of outdoor power equipment, grass seed and fertilizer, equipment rentals as well as parts and repair.

HOMEOWNERS OR CONTRACTORS | RENTAL OR RETAIL PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTOR SUPPLY HEADQUARTERS

678 HIGHWAY 105 EXTENSION • BOONE, NC • 828.264-6044 • FARMERSRENTALS.COM MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:30-5:00 • SATURDAY 7:30-1:00 • CLOSED SUNDAYS

WINTER TIMES 2021

Quirky, eclectic, fun interactive entertainment awaits at

Mystery Hill BY DAVID ROGERS

magine yourself living in the High Country around the year 1700. You are probably a frontiersman — or a Native American. It’s wintertime and snow has piled up on the trail ahead as you pad through the forest in your moccasins. Looking at the fresh snow, you suddenly see footprints of a large bear. Pulling out your tomahawk, you are ready to spring into action. You would rather the bear be your dinner this evening than you be his. Tomahawk throwing is a skill, and Blowing Rock’s Mystery Hill has a special feature for fun and even competition. It is called Tomahawk Hill, and it is adjacent to the the High Country’s most eclectic attraction. Attracting more than 70,000 visitors each year according to its website, Mystery Hill keeps innovating and adding new features. The legacy attraction of course is its gravity vortex, the only one in North Carolina. Water flows uphill. Balls roll in the 86

FILE PHOTO Blowing Rock visitor Jay Janish takes aim with a tomahawk.

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE Jonas Stockner holds on tight during a mechanical bull ride at Mystery Hill.

opposite direction from what you would expect. Individuals are pulled to stand at a 45-degree angle in spite of their efforts to stand up straight. Matthew Underwood is the third-generation owner of the attraction that has entertained locals and visitors alike for more than 70 years. “Mystery Hill will always be known for its gravitational anomaly because that is what the business was founded on,” said Underwood. “But over the years we have added so much

FILE PHOTO A guide at Mystery Hill demonstrates the gravitational oddities associated with the attraction.

FILE PHOTO Mystery Hill has nine unique attractions that family members of all ages can enjoy.

more. The breadth of the Mystery Hill experience

is pretty unique.” Recently, Mystery

Hill expanded its Gem Mining feature. Their Bubblerama, a room full of giant bubbles; the Hall of Mystery is a hands-on science area; Professor Finnegan’s old-time

portrait parlor keeps getting bigger and better, with more costumes and more scenes. SEE MYSTERY ON PAGE 88

WINTER TIMES 2021

NATURAL GRAVITATIONAL ANOMALY

HALL OF MYSTERY

BUBBLERAMA

TOMAHAWK HILL

an Axe Thr owing,

Bull Bucki

ng, Crooked S tandi Weird Scie nce, Epic H ng,

DOUGHERTY HOUSE MUSEUM

Don’t forget that Mystery Hill is also a great venue for:

istor Ice Cream B rain Freezey, type of a g ood time!

PROSPECTOR HILL GEM MINING

HISTORIC FARMYARD

• Birthday Parties • Family Reunions • Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties • & More!

ASK ABOUT THE ULTIMATE FAMILY PLUS DEAL!

THE BULL RIDING CHALLENGE

NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS MUSEUM

PROF FINNEGAN’S OLD TIME PHOTOS

OVER THE TOP MASON JAR MILKSHAKES

MISS LILLIE’S CRAFT CABIN

LOCATED ON HWY 321 IN BLOWING ROCK, NC WINTER TIMES 2021

BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT MYSTERYHILL.COM 87

MYSTERY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 86

With so many thousands of people visiting Mystery Hill each year for three-quarters of a century — many of them

repeat customers — it is easy to imagine the legions of Appalachian State students, as well as families from all over the East Coast and from around the world, whose smiles have brightened the attraction’s doorways,

their laughs aplenty echoing through the halls. Group rates are available from Mystery Hill for its interactive adventures, as well as private event bookings. Learn more at www.mysteryhill.com.

FILE PHOTO A family enjoys the gem mine at Mystery Hill.

FILE PHOTO Remyington Ford tries to throws a ball through a hole at Mystery Hill.

We are keeping the store safe and healthy!

(Through Christmas)

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE Mystery Hill employee Hannah Finkelstein demonstrates candle pouring during WinterFest activities. FILE PHOTO Terry Lynn stands in the middle of a giant bubble while Catherine Stalcoskie demonstrates the phenomenon at Mystery Hill. WINTER TIMES 2021

537 Main Street Open Monday - Saturday 10:00am 6:00pm 537 Main Street

MUSEUM GRADE MINERAL SPECIMENS Open&Monday - Saturday from 10am - 5pm FOSSIL SPECIMENS - RARE GEMSTONES MUSEUM GRADE MINERAL SPECIMENS & FOSSIL SPECIMENS FINE JEWELRY - LAPIDARY SERVICES

RARE GEMSTONES - FINE JEWELRY - LAPIDARY SERVICES

Tanger Outlets 9:30 to 5:00 www.docsrocks.org WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO SUBMITTED While the destination provides adventure and gorgeous scenery, weather conditions can adversely cause susceptible roadways.

Winter wonderland on the

Blue Ridge Parkway BY NEAL FALVEY

aking a trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway is a unique experience, a meandering drive reveals the magnanimous longrange ruggedness of the picturesque Appalachian Mountains. The scenic route carries onward for

more than 400 miles and the stretch situated in the High Country of North Carolina is some of the best on the entire road. The Parkway displays and protects a various array of animals and fauna native to the region and provides an opportunity for travelers to get a glimpse of the lush landscapes.

The Blue Ridge Parkway receives its name from the Blue Ridge Mountains, a physical

geographic province of the greater Appalachian Mountains. The mountain range is located in the eastern United States, and extends 550 miles southwest from southern Pennsylvania through Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. This province consists

of northern and southern physiographic regions, which divide near the Roanoke River. To the west of the Blue Ridge, between it and the bulk of the Appalachians, lies the Great Appalachian Valley, bordered on the west by the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian range. The Blue Ridge

Mountains obtained its esteemed moniker from the bluish color it renders when viewed from a distance. The vast trees of the area put the ‘blue’ into the landscape due to an atmospheric hydrocarbon phenomena, hence the distinctive color palette in the scene. SEE BRP ON PAGE 91

WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE | MTNSNAPSHOTS.COM Price Lake frozen over is a sight to see. Sometimes you can hear the ice creaking and cracking with eerie sounds as the ice moves with the current.

BRP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 90

The Blue Ridge Mountains essentially act as the epicenter for its parent range the Appalachians, bordered by sectors known as the Piedmont to the southeast and the Valley, Ridge and Plateau to the northwest. The Blue Ridge Mountains, WINTER TIMES 2021

and the parkway that it contains, offer the highest peak in the eastern United States at Mount Mitchell. For reference, there are 39 peaks in North Carolina and Tennessee higher than 6,000 feet. In comparison, in the northern portion of the Appalachian chain, only New Hampshire’s Mt. Washington rises above 6,000 feet, making the Blue Ridge Mountains the premiere setting for eastern elevation.

The region is typically acclaimed for its isolation and revered for its natural beauty. The Blue Ridge Parkway, which is a specially designed and federally protected major route, meanders gently while taking travelers on an idyllic journey of wonder and magnitude. There are almost 500 mileposts in the 469-mile stretch of Parkway road, perfectly showcasing what the Appalachian Mountains are all about. Travelers can

not only take in the views and shoot amply sensational photographs, but can also look for tunnels, parking areas, overlooks, streams, rivers and numerous tourism-based locations. If travelers wanted to drive straight through the entire length of the Parkway, it would take between 10 and 12 hours, but with so much to take in, one could easily SEE BRP ON PAGE 94

NEW OWNERS!!! 828-805-4999 • 828-789-9073 3593 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (Next to Fred & Larry’s Coffee)

Monday thru Friday: 11-7 Saturday: 11-3 Closed on Sunday Open Hours Guaranteed! Hours Soon to Be Expanded!

Where the Good Stuff Is!

Voted Best Coffee Shop in Avery County!

Check Our Social Media for Live Music Schedule!

fredandlarryscoffee.com 3591 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604

(828) 367-2110 92

WINTER TIMES 2021

BRP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 91

take an entire day within only a few mile markers. As temperatures begin to drop and winter looms, the Blue Ridge Parkway stays open (weather permitting), aside from a few visitor centers. The wintertime Blue Ridge Parkway offers all the beauty of the mountains of valleys with a blanket of unaltered snow. The white caps shine in the distance, the evergreens dusted with crystals as the definitions of mountain and forest become a remarkable sight, especially from the comfort of a cozy car. The winter scenery gives the image of inside a snow globe. White and green hues control the color narrative throughout the route and contrast spectacularly with a clear blue sky. Winter on the Parkway is a totally different journey from the other seasons and offers an unparalleled experience with a drastically varied setting to enjoy the wonder. While it gives amazing views and adventurous destinations, the roadway is highly susceptible to weather conditions. If the weather becomes too dicey, park rangers will shut portions of the Parkway to keep safety a priority concern. Planning and safety ought to be paramount when inclement weather approaches. If snow, sleet or ice are significantly present on the roadways and bridges, park rangers will close access gates on the route. However, even with unpredictable weather there are still ways to reach small sections of the roadway, including trail areas for winter hiking or snowshoeing, along with other attractions. The superb vistas are the main component to the popularity of the Blue Ridge Parkway, making it a road destination for tourists from all over the United States. The section of the Parkway that runs through the Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk regions of the North Carolina High Country are 94

PHOTO SUBMITTED Mountainside rock formations get covered with ice during the winter months. The best scenario is that the roadways are clear and everything else is covered in snow.

considered some of the most brilliant for the entire journey. As a result, travelers make a specific point to seek the many unique businesses, activities, music, breweries and wineries throughout the Avery and Watauga county regions of the Parkway. The location of the Parkway in these areas draw visitors to adjacent sites such as Grandfather Mountain. At the Linville, NC nature park, visitors here will find animals, trails, shops, restaurants and the prestigious Mile High Swinging Bridge to walk across. The views at this point rival any other all over the map. Grandfather Mountain, a source of local pride, demonstrates true natural beauty and fun for the entire family. An amazing source of biodiversity and towering historic landscapes provide an authentic escape from the urban and suburban sprawl. Grandfather’s unique ecology, conservation and species protection genuinely demonstrate the commitment and passion for nature in the High Country. Weather permitting; Grandfather Mountain State Park

is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Located at 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646, Grandfather Mountain is a perfect attache to a journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Continuing on Hwy. 221 past the Grandfather Mountain in Avery County and a short drive from off the Parkway exist the mountain resort towns of Banner Elk, Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain. Visitors there will find plenty of restaurants, shops, lodging and site attractions to go along with the two major ski resorts of Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain. Late November and early December mark the official start to the ski and snowboard season. Parkway drivers can take the slight detour to fill their adrenaline void on the quick slopes of these mountain hamlets. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, Banner Elk Winery and Beech Mountain Brewing Company are also found with easy access and are close by. They are open all season and throughout the winter months. These hotspots are a

great way to relax after driving throughout the Parkway and offer a literal taste of what the High Country has to offer. Southbound from Banner Elk and the ski resorts is the town of Linville Falls, home to majestic and aptly named Linville Falls. Linville Falls in the winter months can produce beautiful displays when the waterfall is completely frozen. Linville Falls also contains the Linville Falls Winery, an area campground, and Linville Caverns. The caverns throughout the winter months, is only open on the weekends. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs near the towns of Linville Falls, Pineola and Little Switzerland, and is a quick stop for a beautiful location. The winter season on the Blue Ridge Parkway has a tremendous amount to offer both the adventure seeker and the scenic onlooker. Though conditions can make the journey more perilous, be prepared, do not hike alone, check ahead for conditions at www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/ conditions and take in some of the most beautiful locations in the nation. WINTER TIMES 2021

Ready for adventure ? We are!

Wilkesboro, NC www.421powersports.com WINTER TIMES 2021

BY MOSS BRENNAN/MOSS. BRENNAN@WATAUGADEMOCRAT.COM The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is covered in snow as a winter storm moved through Boone.

Main stages

of the High Country BY MARISA MECKE

tage productions, musicals, dance recitals and more line the stages of the theaters of the High Country. Visitors to the region can indulge in performances from the next up-and-coming student performers, as well as seasoned experts who take the stage in the mountains. Theater lovers are in luck as many venues have returned to their regular season productions. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many are still practicing a variety of different social distancing protocols. Patrons should contact venues to learn more about safety precautions at the different productions and events.

APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY 96

DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE AND DANCE

Students at Appalachian State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance have a wide variety of performances to share with visitors. From student-writtenand-produced shows to co-curricular performances, live performances are integral to their learning and a powerful way for the larger community to engage with students. The department will have eight productions during its 2021 to 2022 seasons, the first productions in-person after 18 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The productions range in

style and content, with some paying tribute to North Carolina art and music prominently such as Steve Martin and Edie Brickell’s “Bright Star: Concert Version” and the 50th anniversary of Appalachian Echoes, a program by the Appalachian Young People’s Theater, while others are set in far flung lands. Attendees can enjoy the performances in a number of venues, including the main stage at the Valborg Theatre and the smaller L.G. Greer Studio, providing spaces for big hits as well as more intimate artistic shows. To learn more about show schedules and tickets, visit theatreanddance.ap-

pstate.edu or call (828) 262-3028.

ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE

Showcasing the finest talent from the Ashe community, the Ashe County Little Theatre is an all-volunteer community-based theatre group located in the Ashe Civic Center in West Jefferson. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ACLT canceled its four-show 2020 season of live stage plays and has temporarily postponed its fall 2021 production, “Barbecue Apocalypse,” in an effort to keep all involved in the production safe and healthy. For updated information about the ACLT production schedule or to make a donation to the organization, visit www.ashecountylittletheatre.org or SEE STAGES ON PAGE 97

WINTER TIMES 2021

STAGES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 96

call (336) 846-2787.

APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY

Built in 1938, the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country has been closed, renovated and taken on many roles in the High Country community in its many years of operation. Restored to its former glory in 2019, the theater now serves as an artistic hub on King Street in downtown Boone. Whether it is a live music performance or a screening of a classic movie, Appalachian Theatre has a broad range of programming to engage any audience. The theater hosts concert series, holiday film screenings and even online screenings of independent documentary films through its Boone Docs series. A variety of local, regional and international stars have graced the stage of the Appalachian Theatre, and the space

WINTER TIMES 2021

acts as a home for many other local art and performance organizations such as Beanstalk Community Theatre, Blue Ridge Community Theatre, Invisible Theatre and Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music. To learn more about the Appalachian Theatre and its upcoming events, visit www.apptheatre.org.

BEANSTALK COMMUNITY THEATRE

A volunteer, nonprofit run by Creative Director Amy Beane and Executive Director Andrea McDonough, the Beanstalk Community Theatre is gearing up to a return to in-person theater for its 2022 season. The theater is celebrating its 10-year anniversary during its 2022 season and in turn is bringing back a slate of hit performances from years past. For 2022, the theater is planning on performing “Twinderella: The Musical” by Charlie Lovett, “Shrek the Musical”

PHOTO COURTESY ENSEMBLE STAGE Mark Allen Woodard, Scott Douglas Wilson and Margaret Dalton starred in ‘The Business of Murder.’ Each has been in multiple other productions by Ensemble SEE STAGES ON PAGE 98 Stage.

STAGES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 97

and “Dearly Departed” by David Bottrell and Jessie Jones. In 2020, the theater won the Spirit of the Festival award at the Southeastern Theatre Conference, and the theater company is sure to delight patrons of their first season back after a mostly virtual season in 2020. To learn more about the production schedule, auditions and more, check its Facebook, Instagram and www.beanstalknc. com. Beanstalk Community Theatre can also be reached by phone at (828) 312-0263 or by email at info@ beanstalknc.com.

ENSEMBLE STAGE

Located at the Historic Banner Elk School in Banner Elk, Ensemble Stage brings professional quality performances with local acting powerhouses. Although its 2020 season was postponed due to COVID-19, in July 2021 it made its return to the High Country with a packed summer schedule including dramas, comedies and kids performances. For the holidays, patrons have the opportunity to celebrate the 10th

PHOTO SUBMITTED Appalachian Theatre of the High Country in Boone has undergone major renovations and is a favorite venue for theatre and concert performances.

annual holiday musical variety show “A Banner Elk Christmas.” Modelled after the Andy Williams and Bing Crosby television Christmas specials of the 60’s and 70’s, the show features more than 35 songs and will be

performed on Dec. 3, 5, 17, 18 and 19, 2021. To learn more about the Ensemble Stage and see its event calendar, visit www.ensemblestage.com or contact the theater by phone at (828) 414-1844 or by email at

info@ensemblestage. com.

IN/VISIBLE THEATRE

The In/Visible Theatre of Boone is full of “realistic idealists,” according to the theater. Looking to ask difficult ques-

tions, contemplate new ideas and create theater productions that embrace innovative art, In/Visible Theatre provides unique and contemplative productions for audiences looking to have deeply meaningful experiences

in the theater. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 the theater is on hiatus until further notice. To check for updates and to learn more about In/Visible Theatre, visit www.invisibletheatrenc.org.

WINTER TIMES 2021

LET US HELP YOU Get A Better Night's Sleep

The Only Ekornes Dealer in the High Country

LARGEST LARGEST Selection Selection

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS in the Boone Mall and in Foscoe 2015

Rest Well Live Better WINTER TIMES 2021

2016

2017

2018

2015

2016

Locally Locally

OWNED OWNED

2019 2017

2018

828-528-4161 | WWW.BLACKBERRYMATTRESS.COM 828-264-2402 | WWW.BLACKBERRYMATTRESS.COM 99

The Appalachian

THEATRE returns to the stage

BY MARISA MECKE

centerpiece of King Street, the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is a cultural landmark for the region. While the theater struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic like many others, the theatre’s chair, Keith Martin, said that after a year of innovations for socially distant and online events the theater is “fully operational post pandemic.” The theater usually hosts more than 200 activities each season, ranging from stage productions to comedy shows to concerts and more. On track for this year, Martin said that 60 of those events this season will be destination draws for cultural tourism, which will attract tourists from many states. SEE THEATRE ON PAGE 101

100

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SAMS FAMILY AND THE APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY. A crowd gathers outside the Appalachian Theatre on Feb. 1948 to see the film ‘Maggie and Jiggs in Society.’ WINTER TIMES 2021

THEATRE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 100

The Appalachian Theatre was built in 1938 and operated for nearly 70 years until it closed in 2007. After a lengthy renovation, the theater opened its doors again in late 2019, but had to close them again after only five months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The theater will celebrate its 83rd birthday on November 14. The theater is a culmination of eight years, a $10 million effort that involved hundreds of volunteers and thousands of unique donors, according to Martin. On Dec. 7, 2011, Martin said a group met to discuss reopening the theater. “I sat across the aisle from Doc Watson, who told us that he would love to lend his name to the effort, hence the Doc Watson Stage for Americana Music in the theater,” Martin said. The community involvement helps shape PHOTO SUBMITTED the unique different cultural and artistic The Malpass Brothers (Christopher and Taylor) performed in Fall 2021 at offerings of the theater, and Martin said Boone’s Appalachian Theatre.

Covid-19 Booster Shots Now Available!

that many other groups use the theater to create their artistry. Beanstock Community Theatre, Blue Ridge Community Theater, In/Visible Theater, Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music and more all use the Appalachian Theater to meet, collaborate and create meaningful artistic experiences together. With so few large meeting spaces in the town of Boone, Keith said that nonprofits and civic clubs and organizations often use the space as a meeting and event space. While the theater brings a large increase in economic activity to the region each season, Martin said what he is most proud of is the intangible benefits of the theater. “In my book, those are enriched livability and an extended nightlife, enhanced quality of life, positive image for both residents and visitors and more,” Martin said. “For decades, the theater was the center of activity for this entire region, SEE THEATRE ON PAGE 102

For service call or text our HIPAA compliant phone lines today! Roan Mountain: (423) 226-5214 Bakersville: (828) 537-1470

Now offering the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine. ACCLUA Rapid PCR Covid Test and FREE PCR Covid Test Available! Speak to our pharmacy staff today to learn more.

Free Delivery! Banner Elk • Sugar Mountain • Boone • Linville Beech Mountain • Newland • Crossnore • Elk Park Mitchell County (Bakersville Location)

Monday: 8:30 AM - 6 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 8 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 6 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM - 6 PM Friday: 8:30 AM - 6 PM 8251 HIGHWAY 19E, ROAN MOUNTAIN, TN Saturday: 9:00 AM - 2 PM (423) 772-3591 rx@roanmtnpharmacy.com Sunday: CLOSED WINTER TIMES 2021

Find the perfect present in our gift shop!

604 S North Carolina 226, Bakersville, NC 28705 (828) 820-8058 bakersville@roanmtnpharmacy.com

Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 6 PM Saturday 9 AM - 2 PM Closed on Sunday 101

THEATRE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 101

hosting current films, civic events, live performances, new reels, cartoons and feature films,” Martin said. Now, the theater can do all of this and more. Martin estimates that the theater produces an increase of $4.512 million in economic activity each full season and hosts more than 50 full-time jobs. This season, the Appalachian Theatre has a variety of offerings. For the holiday season, the theater will be playing cinematic holiday classics to celebrate the season. On November 20 and 26, the theater will present the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein treasure “The Sound of Music.” Kicking off the Christmas season on December 10 and 11, there will be screenings of one of the most well-loved Christmas movies of all time, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Getting closer to the holiday, on December 21 the Appalachian Theater will deck the halls with a showing of the beloved Will Ferrell movie “Elf.” Meanwhile, the theater will also have live concerts as well. On November 6, the theater presented the Malpass Brothers, a duo bringing classic country music to the High Country. The pair have toured with Don Helms, infamous steel guitarist Hank Williams, and have even opened for the music legend Merle Haggard on multiple tours. Bringing some High Country locals back to the region, the Appalachian Theatre has Brooke and Darin Aldridge playing a Christmas concert on December 5. Native to North Carolina, and more specifically to Avery County, the two highly acclaimed bluegrass artists bring a classic mountain sound with new twists to the stage. While the theater is back to in-person and virtual performances and events, it is still taking the utmost caution in regard to COVID-19. The guidelines are subject to change, but currently the Appalachian Theatre is requiring that guests show identification and proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in order to attend events. Additionally, face coverings are required. Along with improved ventilation, reduced physical contact and increasing cleaning and sanitization efforts, the Appalachian Theatre is dedicated to providing safety and peace of mind for its patrons. There are constantly new events being scheduled at the Appalachian Theatre, so to see the events calendar, purchase tickets for events and more, visit apptheatre.org. 102

PHOTO SUBMITTED The marquee for the Appalachian Theatre lit up at night for the John McEuen and U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors performances at the theater on Oct. 17, 2019. WINTER TIMES 2021

W indwood Home & Home Décor Fabulous Furniture at Fantastic Prices Huge Selection

9,000 Square Feet

Large Selection of

Lamps, Chandeliers, Mirrors & Wall Art

of Furniture from Traditional to Eclectic

Stone Top Bathroom Vanities

Open Mon. - Sat. 10:00-5:30 | 828.295.9600 7531 Valley Blvd, BLOWING ROCK | Located in the Food Lion Shopping Center Visit BRASS EXCHANGE HOME located in Charlotte at the Arboretum Shopping Center WINTER TIMES 2021

103

App State’s Schaefer Center BY MOSS BRENNAN

Upcoming Schedule

s society and the High Country alike continue to move forward with the COVID-19 pandemic, live performance is returning in force. On App State’s campus, the beautiful 1,600-seat Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts brings all that and more to Boone. At the theater, a wide variety of world-renowned 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. Coming up in Spring 2022, the Schaefer Center is hosting a wide variety of events with tickets on sale starting Monday, Nov. 22 at 9 a.m. through “The Schaefer Center Presents,” which is a series offering campus and community audiences a diverse array of music, dance and theatre programming designed to enrich the cultural landscape of the Appalachian State University campus and surrounding area. By creating memorable performance experiences and related educational and outreach activities, the series promotes the power and excitement of the live performance experience, provides a “window on the world” through the artistry of nationally and internationally renowned artists, and showcases some of the finest artists of our nation and our region. Musical events range from symphony orchestra and chamber music performances to jazz, folk, traditional, international, and popular artists. Theatre productions run the gamut from serious drama to musical comedy. Dance per104

PHOTO SUBMITTED The all-female a capella quintet Nobuntu comes to The Schaefer Center on Tuesday, March 22, 2022.

Rosanne Cash, award-winning singer/ songwriter, will perform at the Schaefer Center on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at 7 p.m.

formances offer an equally wide array of styles, from ballet to modern dance to international companies representing cultural traditions from around the world.

WESTERN PIEDMONT SYMPHONY— “LINK UP: THE ORCHESTRA SINGS”

Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, at 3 p.m. (pre-show activities with the musicians in the Schaefer Center lobby from 2-3 p.m.) The Western Piedmont Symphony performs this family-friendly 45-minute concert, an extension of the APPlause! K-12 Performing Arts Series. Program includes “Come to Play,” Finale from The Firebird Suite, “New World Symphony,” “Ode to Joy,” “Oye,” “Simple Gifts,” “To Make Words Sing” and “Variations on a Shaker Melody” from

Appalachian Spring. Tickets: $15 Adult, $5 Student (with proof of enrollment in a K-12 school or homeschool)

BALLETX: “THE LITTLE PRINCE”

Saturday, March 19, 2022 at 7 p.m. Philadelphia’s powerhouse contemporary-ballet company BalletX hits the stage with this full-length ballet inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s timeless novella of adventure and enlightenment. “The Little Prince” is a ballet for the whole family, sure to delight the imagination of children and adults alike. Tickets: $25 Adult, $20 Faculty/Staff, $10 Student This presentation is funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Office of Arts and Cultural Programs at Appalachian State University.

NOBUNTU

Tuesday, March 22, 2022 at 7 p.m. This all-female a cappella quintet

from Zimbabwe has drawn international acclaim for its inventive performances that range from traditional Zimbabwean songs to Afro Jazz to Gospel. The ensemble’s concerts are performed with pure voices, augmented by minimalistic percussion, traditional instruments such as the Mbira (thumb piano) and organic, authentic dance movements. Tickets: $25 Adult, $20 Local Resident Discount (with proof of residence in Watauga, Ashe or Avery County), $10 Student

ROSANNE CASH

Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 7 p.m. One of the country’s preeminent singer-songwriters, Rosanne Cash has released 15 albums of extraordinary songs that have earned four Grammy Awards and 12 nominations, as well as 21 Top 40 hits. “She Remembers Everything”—her most recent release— is a poetic, lush, and soulful collection of songs that reckon with a flawed and intricate world, marking a return to more personal songwriting after a trio of albums that explored her southern roots and family heritage. Tickets: $40 Adult, $35 Faculty/Staff, $25 Student Through December, seating is capped at 800 for all events and masks are required for all patrons and staff regardless of vaccination status. All tickets are general admission. In-person and livestream tickets are available at theschaefercenter.org, at the Schaefer Center box office located at 733 Rivers Street or by calling (828) 262-4046. For more upcoming events in 2022 visit theatreanddance.appstate.edu/ performances/complete-season-listing. WINTER TIMES 2021

60th Annual

BLOWING ROCK

Thursday, January 27th THROUGH

Sunday, January 30th

IN THE PARK

Join the Village of Blowing Rock as we celebrate the fun side of winter with the 24th annual Blowing Rock WinterFest!

Many events are kid-friendly – bring the whole family!

BlowingRockWinterFest.com

MAY 21 • JUNE 11 • JULY 16 AUGUST 13 • SEPTEMBER 10 OCTOBER 1, 2022 Over 90 Juried Artists PARK AVENUE IN DOWNTOWN BLOWING ROCK 10 AM UNTIL 5 PM • FREE ADMISSION A Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce Event WOOD • CLAY • JEWELRY • METAL • GLASS • FIBER • PAINTING • PHOTOGRAPHY FOR INFORMATION, CALL, WRITE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

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

WINTER TIMES 2021

105

Carlton Gallery PHOTO SUBMITTED Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery features various themes of art, including nature and wildlife paintings.

Art Galleries

COMPILED BY ANDREW COLE

N Celebrating 39Years Owner/Artist Toni Carlton says

“These original artworks open our hearts and touch our souls to inspire and lift our spirits” Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Highway 105 in Grandfather Community 828-963-4288 | www.carltongallery.com | carltongallery@carltongallery.com

PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY 106

orthwestern North Carolina is home to a wide variety of art galleries featuring work from countless local artists who exhibit their individual talents in their respected artistries. Individuals planning to visit galleries in the High Country should call ahead or check gallery websites for changes, as some may still be undergoing changes set by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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 as professional framing services. Stop by to have a piece framed or to find that 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 SEE GALLERIES ON PAGE 107

WINTER TIMES 2021

GALLERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 106

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.

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.

R.T. MORGAN ART GALLERY AND GLASS BY CAMILLE

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 upcoming exhibits, call the gallery or visit its website.

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.

FLORENCE THOMAS ART SCHOOL

STEPHEN SHOEMAKER GALLERY

CHER SHAFFER STUDIO GALLERY

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 WINTER TIMES 2021

Carlton Gallery

113 S. Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (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 SEE GALLERIES ON PAGE 108

WINTER GROUP & SMALL WORKS EXHIBITION November 26 – April 30 Holiday Open House November 26 & 27, 10-5pm

Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Highway 105 in Grandfather Community 828-963-4288 | www.carltongallery.com | carltongallery@carltongallery.com

PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY 107

GALLERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 107

next to the Old Hampton Store, Barbecue and Tavern on Highway 221 in Linville. 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 more than 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 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 Communities for Children. 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 more than10 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

SEE GALLERIES ON PAGE 110

Experience

Our 6th generation family farm makes farm-fresh cheese on site from our own happy dairy cows. Our farm store also offers other local goods! 828-756·8166 Fri·Sat, 10am·6pm, year round 19456 US 221 North (.5 miles south of Linville Caverns) Marion, NC 28752 108

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

Learn about our history and more at tourcartercounty.com WINTER TIMES 2021

WE NARROWED YOUR OPTIONS DOWN TO UNLIMITED With custom colors, dynamic shapes and sizes and unlimited design options, E-Series windows and doors make it possible to create the home you’ve always imagined. Follow your inspiration, express your own unique style and set your home apart with Andersen.

New River Building Supply, Inc 3148 Hwy. 105 South Boone, NC 28607 828-264-5650 2340 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-820-8421 www.newriverbuilding.com

WINTER TIMES 2021

109

GALLERIES

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.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 108

(828) 898-5214 www.facebook.com/studio140 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.

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. — 5 p.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 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.

Watauga County

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 110

CROWN GALLERY

PHOTO SUBMITTED A portion of the artwork that is on display at 87 Ruffin St. Gallery located in Linville in Avery County.

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 well-known 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 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

1153 Main Street, Blowing Rock (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 notfor-profit, member and donation supported art venue in Boone, 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-Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. For more information regarding programs and exhibition, visit www.tcva.org. WINTER TIMES 2021

Explore. Experience. Enjoy.

Nestled in the mountains of Jefferson, NC, rests an upscale resort community ideal for weekend getaways, special events and everyday living. Jefferson Landing is a gorgeous, gated development featuring luxurious accomodations, fine dining and affordable membership options to our golf and social clubs. Book your adventure today to explore, experience and enjoy all that Jefferson Landing has to offer.

WINTER TIMES 2021

111

The Frescoes of the

High Country

‘The Last Supper,’ as depicted by artist Ben Long inside the Holy Trinity Church, located in Glendale Springs. BY CHANDA RICHARDSON

ating back longer than 2,000 years, the frescoes have become a staple of the arts within the High Country. From the Last Supper, the Mystery of Faith to works from the area’s very own

112

Ben Long, it isn’t hard to see the hard work and care that has been built into these pieces. In Ashe County sits St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, located at 400 Beaver Creek School Rd. in West Jefferson, and it offers more than fulfilling works by Long.

Growing up in Statesville, Long became passionate about fresco painting and hasn’t looked back since. The frescoes take a lot of time and concentration as the artist presses pigment into wet plaster, rather than painting normally onto a white canvas. The art then becomes bonded with the plaster

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE

and produces a surface that is then resistant to time when it hardens, making these beautiful paintings last a lifetime. In October 2021, Ben Long was subject of a feature novel called “The Ashe County Frescoes of Benjamin F. SEE FRESCOES ON PAGE 113

WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE The historic Holy Trinity Church is located at 195 J.W. Luke Road in Glendale Springs. The small chapel is home to Ben Long’s ‘The Last Supper,’ which was completed in 1980.

FRESCOES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 112

Long IV,” written by Janet Pittard and David Chiswell. The book features the first Ashe County fresco, “Mary Great with Child,” given to St. Mary’s by Long in 1974. In 1975, Long completed “John the Baptist” and in 1977, he completed “The Mystery of Faith.” Long’s final Ashe County fresco was “The Last Supper,” completed in 1980 and given to the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church located at 195 J W Luke Rd. in Glendale Springs. Copies of “The Ashe County Frescoes of Benjamin F. Long IV” may be purchased locally, ordered at online sellers or directly from the publisher. Holy Trinity Episcopal Church conWINTER TIMES 2021

tinues to host the annual Festival of the Frescoes in the Fall, which raises money for various outreach programs. Long also painted a fresco entitled “Suffer the Little Children” in Avery County’s Sloop Chapel, located at the Crossnore Communities for Children. Long outstretched from the High Country and became a well-decorated artist, completing works for Bank of America in Charlotte and a handful of schools. To see more of his works, click to www.benlongfineart.com. For more information on the Ashe County Frescoes and the foundation, visit www.ashefrescoes.org. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church continue to open their doors to anyone who would like to take in the Ben Long Frescoes.

FILE PHOTO The ‘Mystery of Faith’ fresco by Ben Long is featured on the wall of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson. 113

Christmas tree

tips and tricks BY JAMIE SHELL

hristmas trees are an iconic symbol of the holiday season. Whether they are personal trees nestled in the corner of a living room for families to enjoy or towering evergreens serving as the focal point of a town square, Christmas trees are a wonder to behold. Many people have fond memories of time spent around the Christmas tree sharing gifts and family traditions. Live trees and their pine-like aroma can be especially nostalgic trees to include in holiday plans. The National Christmas Tree Association says that approximately 25 to 30 million real Christmas trees are sold in the United States every year. North American trees hail from all 50 states and areas of Canada. While freshly cut trees can be particularly beautiful and aromatic additions to the season, they require a bit more work than artificial trees in order to remain beautiful and thrive throughout the holiday season. Maintenance can help keep Christmas trees as 114

Freshly cut Christmas trees are farmed specifically for the holiday season and support local economies. They also tend to last a bit longer than pre-cut trees available elsewhere.

perfect as possible, and the following tips are offered when it comes to caring for your special greenery. • Even though it is tempting to buy a real tree as early as possible, a tree’s shelf life is limited even with the best care. Under the best conditions, a real tree should last up to four weeks before drying out. • Consider the needles when looking

for a real tree. Pull your hand toward your body along the branches. If many needles fall off, the tree is past its peak. • Think about the room in which the tree will be located. Leave at least six inches between the tip of the tree and the ceiling, accounting for the height of the tree stand as well. • If possible, buy a freshly cut tree from a reputable nursery or

tree farm, advises The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Many pre-cut trees sold elsewhere were likely cut weeks before and may not be fresh. • Cut the bottom of the tree trunk before bringing it home to facilitate the uptake of fresh water daily. Trees can absorb as much as a gallon of water in a day, so make sure the tree gets fresh water every day.

• Keep trees away from as many heat sources as possible and away from direct sunlight to prolong longevity. • To make a Christmas tree last longer, boil a gallon of water and then dissolve one cup of sugar in the water. Allow to cool. After freshly cutting the trunk, pour in the warm sugar water. Continue to add fresh, cool, plain water to the

PHOTO COURTESY HANNAH TRIVETT The best way to purchase a long-lasting tree is to find a fresh evergreen off the farm to take home and decorate for the holiday season, but safety is paramount to keeping a tree safe at home.

tree stand afterward. • Once needles begin to fall off with frequency, the tree is passing its prime. Remove it so it does not become a fire hazard. WINTER TIMES 2021

Come visit us!

Call for Appointment: 305-321-5662 • 828-963-5300

10543 Hwy 105 South, Banner Elk, NC, Unit 4 Hours: Weds - Sat 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Email: highcountyantiques@gmail.com WINTER TIMES 2021

115

Winter at home in

BANNER ELK

NUMBERS OF NOTE

BY JAMIE SHELL

he road bends and weaves around the buildings standing side-by-side. The trees stand strong in the distance, serving as a backdrop to the beautiful town of Banner Elk. The town of Banner Elk sits nestled at the base of Beech Mountain, and while being approximately two square miles in size, it is hard to overlook the array of events held within town limits. The town and community leaders hold an array of festivities throughout the year, including Art on the Greene, the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival and a Halloween Trunk-or-Treat. Yet, the festivities do not stop when the leaves fall from their place on the tree. The Town of Banner Elk hosts an array of winter festivities, including “A Small Town Christmas,” which is held the first weekend of December, and includes the lighting of the town tree at The Corner on Main. “I enjoy all the special actives that we have,” said town manager Rick Owen. “It is nice to have the seasonal change to 116

FILE PHOTO The clocktower at the Corner on Main in Banner Elk is a centerpiece of the town which plays Christmas music during the holiday season.

the activities.” Additional weekend winter celebrations start bright and early with a Holiday 5K, in additional to other traditional festivities such as breakfast with Old Saint Nick at Dunn’s Deli and a book exchange activity at the Banner Elk Book Exchange inside Historic Banner Elk School.

The Parade of Lights occurs that evening and starts off at Lees-McRae College. It will be hard to miss the parade on Main Street that evening, where families and friends are encouraged to take on the holiday spirit with lights as bright as their Christmas cheer. “We love the special events held in the town,”

said Owen. “It brings out the community pride and allows the community an opportunity to shine.” Alongside the parade, there will be events throughout the town such as a production held by local theater Ensemble Stage. The holiday musical “A Banner Elk Christmas 3” will be held on Dec. 3, 5, and 17 through

19. Tickets are available by clicking to www. ensemblestage.com. For more information on the goings-on around Banner Elk, visit the town website by clicking to www.townofbannerelk.org or contact the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 8988395 or www.bannerelk. org.

The Town of Banner Elk has a plethora of events throughout the if you are interested in knowing more about what is going on in the community. Town of Banner Elk: (828) 898-5398 For more information regarding “A Small Town Christmas” and any of the events held within the town limits during the season, one can contact Banner Elk officials and community leaders. Ensemble Stage: (828) 414-1844 Local theatre Ensemble Stage holds an array of productions throughout the year. Call if you are interested in contacting the organization and learning about the community. Lees-McRae College: (828) 898-5241 Local college that works in the community and serves as part of the community within the town of Banner Elk. Alongside the many attractions within Banner Elk is an array of restaurants and cuisines, including Dunn’s Deli, Banner Elk Cafe and The Lodge, Stonewalls, Bella’s Breakfast, Sorrento’s, Bayou, Louisiana Purchase Restaurant, just to name a few. WINTER TIMES 2021

High Quality Furniture at Affordable Prices

WINTER TIMES 2021

117

CAVING

Adventure into the earth STAFF REPORT

p for some adventure this winter? Caving is a lot like hiking in many caves in the High Country, only visitors are among the stalactites and stalagmites of the underground world. Up above, the Earth’s surface temperatures may be getting a bit frigid, but just below, in the caves and caverns of the High Country, cavers can escape from the blustery winds and dropping temperatures in the surprisingly mild temperatures of the caves.

PHOTO COURTESY LINVILLE CAVERNS Just one of the many formations inside Linville Caverns. The caverns were first opened to the public in 1937.

CAVES AND CAVERNS Linville Caverns Linville Caverns, located off U.S. 221 North, offers a unique experience for people of all ages and skill sets. This cavern is easily navigable and is headed by tour guide that will walk you through the expansive and tight spaces that the cavern holds. Visitors will surely be amazed by the underground trout swimming through a stream accessible from a small open118

PHOTO SUBMITTED Trout swim through a stream that flows in the Linville Caverns. Visitors can see the fish as they take part in a guided tour of the caverns, open to the public since 1937.

ing in the cave. Linville Caverns has been offering tours to visitors since 1937 and now has upgraded pathways and lighting to ensure the safety of those visiting. Visit its website for more information at www.linvillecaverns.

com/. Wahoo’s Adventures Caving trips with Wahoo’s Adventures start in Boone and travel to Johnson City, Tenn., to enter the Earth through their cave excursions.

According to their website, the Wahoo’s Adventures cave is the largest in Tennessee and has been privately owned since the Civil War. Expert guides lead expeditions through the underground cave, while teaching cavers about the stalactite and stalagmite formations throughout. Wahoo’s main office is located at 3385 South U.S. 321 in Boone. For more information and maps to locations, visit their website at http:// wahoosadventures.com/ wahoos/cave-explora-

tion.php. Worley’s Cave Worley’s Cave excursions are headed up by River and Earth Adventures Inc. with no sidewalks or electricity for an authentic caving experience. This excursion is not for visitors looking for an easy or quick caving experience, as excursion cavers will crawl through tunnels through tight spaces into open cavernous areas. The experience can be anywhere from two to four hours.

River and Earth Adventures’ website describes the physical fitness needed for these expeditions as being similar to pulling yourself onto a kitchen counter. Visitors should also wear footwear that can withstand shallow water. The excursions begin at 187 Patterson Lane in Elizabethton, Tenn. For more information about pricing and preparing for your adventure, visit their website at www.raftcavehike.com/ caving/. WINTER TIMES 2021

Gift giving in the

High Country

MAKAELAH WALTERS

s the holiday season approaches, a spirit of giving settles on the High Country. Visitors frequent the area, seeking out special gifts for loved ones. From clothing to home goods and specialty foods, the High Country’s several downtown areas offer visitors a walkable shopping experience. Blowing Rock is known for its convenient downtown area, interspersed with stores such as High Country Candles. Recognized by Southern Living magazine as a must-visit shop, the shop allows visitors to watch as wonderful wax creations are made in-store. The candles make for a perfect handmade gift for candle lovers. Downtown Boone is also a fabulous place to walk around and explore the various stores, from artisan markets to boutique clothing stores. The downtown area is the place to be on the first Friday of each month, as patrons stroll from shop to shop for the monthly Art Crawl. For art lovers on a budget, the town’s Curio Art Vending machines offer an affordable way to purchase locally WINTER TIMES 2021

PHOTO SUBMITTED At High Country Candles, staff create unique hand-sculptured wax creations. They also make and carry tri-color candles, scented pillar candles, a wide variety of highly scented jar and votive candles, as well as non-drip and smokeless taper candles.

made prints. The machines dispense artwork from local artists in exchange for coins. Visitors can check out Curio Art Vending Machines, located in Boone’s restau-

rants and cafes, including Tapp Room and Espresso News. The route from Boone to Banner Elk is lined with antique stores, where guests can find

one-of-a-kind home goods and vintage decor perfect for the holidays. Other places to find fun goods include the wonderfully refurbished downtown area in West

Jefferson in nearby Ashe County. Between Boone and Banner Elk, the beautiful valley known as Valle Crucis is marked by the Watauga River. There, at

3565 Hwy. 194 S., Sugar Grove, is the original Mast General Store. The store, first opened in the 1800s is a trip back SEE GIFT ON PAGE 120

119

GIFT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 119

in time. Mast General Store’s inventory has stayed the same throughout the years; offering candies and sundry items of old. Just down the road, the Mast Store Outlet,offers similar items at a specialty prices. A sister Mast General Store, located on King Street, is an anchor of Boone’s downtown area. The Boone Mall, located at 1180 Blowing Rock Road, and the Tanger Outlet Mall, located at 278 Shoppes on the Parkway Road, Suite 33 in Blowing Rock, offer a traditional shopping experience with clothing and jewelry stores like Belk and Rack Room Shoes. For cheese lovers, choose from a variety of gourmet cheeses made locally right here in the High Country. Ashe County Cheese makes its home-spun brand in West Jefferson, while on the other end of the High Country, near natural attractions Linville Falls, Linville Gorge and Linville Caverns, English Farmstead Cheese Shop craft a variety of dairy products. The dairy farm has been in the same family for six generations and it is designated a Century Family Farm by the N.C. Department of Agriculture. Known for the cheddar and more, the home farm store is open Fridays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. English Farmstead Cheese can also be found at Maw’s Produce found at 7918 NC-105 in Boone.

FILE PHOTO The Spice & Tea Exchange offers a variety of tools, kitchen utensils, books and goodies, perfect for gift giving.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Jerky Outpost, located at the Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway in Blowing Rock, offers the largest and best selection of craft jerky in the High Country. 120

PHOTO BY CHAMIAN CRUZ A large variety of candies are among the different giftable items offered at the Mast General Store. WINTER TIMES 2021

YOUR HIGH COUNTRY DEALER WITH THE LARGEST INVENTORY TO CHOOSE FROM BIG TAX BENEFITS ON SELECT TRUCKS AND VANS

WINTER TIMES 2021

121

Shop ‘til you drop at these general stores BY CHANDA RICHARDSON

eneral stores have been a pinnacle to shopping in the High Country ever since they were introduced. With a variety of goods and supplies, it’s hard to step through the doors and leave empty handed. The High Country has an array of stores to choose from, such as Mast General Store, Old Orchard Creek General Store, The Vintage Farmhouse General Store, Banner Elk Consignment Cottage and Fred’s General Mercantile. Plan your next winter getaway with these stores in mind.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Barrels filled to the brim with candy at Mast General Store in Valle Crucis

MAST GENERAL STORE

Possibly the most famous business in the Boone and Banner Elk areas, Mast General Store has been providing a wonderful shopping experience in opening in the High Country since the late 1800s. The Original Mast General Store and Annex is located in Valle Crucis, remaining the center of the community since 1883. In 1988, the location on King Street in Boone opened its doors with an array of products including winterwear, shoes, candy, drinks, trinkets and more. Mast General now has nine locations located throughout 122

PHOTO SUBMITTED Shoppers visit the Banner Elk Consignment Cottage when looking for a one-of-a-kind piece to accent a room.

North Carolina. To learn more about the historic business and for hours and contact information, visit www.mastgeneralstore.com.

OLD ORCHARD CREEK GENERAL STORE

After opening in the summer of 2021, Old Orchard Creek

PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Old Orchard Creek General Store offers coffee, books, goodies, household items and wine.

General Store has become a staple in Lansing. Located high in the mountains of Ashe County, Old Orchard Creek offers Hatchet coffee, books, homemade goods, clothing and more. In the fall of 2021, the business received the Lansing Beautification Award as well as the Order of the Long Leaf Pine given to owner Walker Clark. The store offers an outdoor patio with live music on the weekends and has been a hub in Lansing since first opening. If you’re looking for a getaway in the mountains to enjoy some good coffee and books, Old Orchard Creek

General Store is the perfect destination. The general store is located at 9350 NC-194 in Lansing, and is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, click to www.oldorchardcreek.com or call (336) 384-9350.

BANNER ELK CONSIGNMENT COTTAGE The town of woolly worms and Lees-McRae College has become the home to the Banner Elk Consignment Cottage, an incredible place to find your next living room

SEE STORES ON PAGE 123

WINTER TIMES 2021

FILE PHOTO PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BRANDON LEMLY Mast General Store offers a variety of goods from fashion to fried chicken cook- The Vintage Farmhouse in West Jefferson covered in six inches of snow. books, and toffee to tents.

STORES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 122

centerpiece. If you’re looking to get rid of some of your furniture, you can visit Susan Brown at the shop to make a deal.

Brown is selective in what she accepts and sells, which customers say bring a great deal of trust within their business. With the ever-changing inventory, Banner Elk Consignment Cottage is a great place to find something special. Banner Elk Consignment Cottage is located at 414 Shawneehaw Ave S in

Same-Day and Walk-In Clinics Boone, Banner Elk & Linville

Banner Elk. For more information, call (828) 898-5733.

THE VINTAGE FARMHOUSE

Located in West Jefferson, the Vintage Farmhouse General Store has been a large attraction since opening in December of 2020. Offering a variety

of home goods, pastries, coffee, clothing and more, the Vintage Farmhouse is sure to be a destination for all of your mad money needs. The Vintage Farmhouse is located at 424 E 2nd St, in West Jefferson, NC and hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WATAUGA Boone

Banner Elk Linville

AVERY

If your condition is not life-threatening, the following offices provide same-day appointments or walk-in care for illnesses and injuries such as sore throats, strains, sprains, fever and the flu.

AppFamily Medicine (828) 386-2222

148 Hwy 105 Ext, St 102 • Boone Mon-Fri 8am-7pm Sat (walk-in) 8am-12pm

Baker Center for Primary Care (828) 737-7711 436 Hospital Drive • Linville Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Sat (walk-in) 8am-12pm

Elk River Medical Associates (828) 898-5177 apprhs.org/sameday

WINTER TIMES 2021

150 Park Avenue • Banner Elk Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Where Coins & Collectors Meet 9872 NC Highway 105 S, Unit 4 Banner Elk, NC 28604 (Foscoe area) (O) 828-967-0124 (C) 704-441-2232 Email: raymond@coin-junction.com BUY ~ SELL ~ TRADE

US & WORLD COINS, CURRENCY, SILVER & GOLD (FREE APPRAISALS)

Owner: Raymond Pesaturo OPEN Wednesday—Saturday, 10AM-5PM 123

A relaxing experience awaits at High Country spas COMPILED BY JAMIE SHELL

espite any time of year, there’s nothing that takes away the stresses of life like a relaxing treatment at a spa. 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 the 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. One facility in the High Country is the Westglow Resort and Spa, located at 224 Westglow Circle in Blowing Rock. Sitting on 42 mountaintop acres 124

DAY SPAS IN THE HIGH COUNTRY 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 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.

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-tobutterfly 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.

72 Arnett Road, Banner Elk For more information, call (828) 898-3550, 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. PHOTO SUBMITTED Multiple spa opportunities exist in the High Country to pamper oneself and enjoy the relaxation and rejuvenation of a massage and treatment.

More information can be found by clicking to westglowresortandspa.com. The Chetola Resort in downtown Blowing Rock also contains a spa on the grounds. Offering up massage therapies, 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 complementary 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 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 in Avery County, 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. More information can be found at eseeolaspa.com. WINTER TIMES 2021

WINTER TIMES 2021

125

A dusting of snow covers a large field of Christmas trees at Sexton Christmas Tree Farm in Ashe County.

PHOTO COURTESY FROSTY’S CHOOSE AND CUT

Choose and Cut

Find your next best Fraser fir in the High Country BY CHANDA RICHARDSON

hen taking a trip into the mountains of North Carolina, it isn’t hard to miss the hills of green that grace country ground. The High Country is no stranger to the vast land that is inhabited by rows upon rows of Fraser firs, and tree farming has continued to thrive it its industry. 126

Contributing upwards of $85 million to the economy of Ashe County alone, Christmas tree farmers across Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties work diligently throughout the year to produce some of the finest Fraser firs in the nation, even getting the opportunity at the National Christmas Tree Association’s title of Grand Champion, leading a homegrown tree straight to the Blue

Room of the nation’s most famous residence, the White House. In September 2018, the White House visited Avery County, selecting a Fraser fir to display in the nation’s capital from Larry Smith’s Mountain Top Fraser Fir Farm in Newland. In Oct. 2021, Peak Farms in Ashe County was gifted with the opportunity to send one of their 19-foot, 30-year-old

trees to the White House. This will be the third time growers Rusty and Beau Estes have sent a tree to the First Lady. “It’s a wonderful opportunity,” said Rusty Estes. “Right now, we have about 400,000 trees on our land and are hoping to grow more in the future.” According to the North Carolina SEE CHOOSE ON PAGE 127

WINTER TIMES 2021

LARGE TRACTS! mountains4sale.com

Mountain Land C O M PAN Y

828-263-2340

43± Acres - Wilkes County $411,000

PHOTO BY CHANDA RICHARDSON Standing just a little more than 19 feet tall, the Christmas Tree selected for the White House this season was a beautiful fraser fir provided by Peak Farms in Jefferson.

CHOOSE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 126

Christmas Tree Association, the state is home to about 1,300 Fraser fir WINTER TIMES 2021

growers across 40,000 acres, and it is reported that 98 percent of these trees are of the Fraser fir species, endemic to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southern Appalachia. The tree was named after

John Fraser, a botanist from Scotland who explored the High Country in the late 1700s. Fraser firs can reach a maximum height of SEE CHOOSE ON PAGE 128

Acres

County

Price

Acres

County

Price

404

Wilkes

$1,341,221

Wilkes

$293,000

341

Wilkes

$351,000

Watauga

SOLD!

329

Cleveland & Rutherford

$861,000

Wilkes

$331,000

203

Watauga

SOLD!

Wilkes

$301,000

184

Wilkes

$431,000

Wilkes

$411,000

159

Caldwell

$395,000

Wilkes

$221,000

155

Ashe

$691,000

Wilkes

$113,000

113

Wilkes

$1,500,000

Avery

UNDER CONTRACT!

Ashe

UNDER CONTRACT!

Wilkes

$110,100

Paul Breden Broker / Owner M: 828-263-2340 buymountainland@gmail.com Mountain Land Company 4524 W U.S. Hwy 421 Wilkesboro, NC 28697 127

CHOOSE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 127

80 feet if left to grow, but on average it takes between seven and 10 years for a tree to hit the ideal Christmas tree height of six-to-seven feet, stretching as long as 12 to 15 years depending on growing conditions, according to the NCCTA. NC Cooperative ExtensionDirector for Ashe County Travis Birdsell said North Carolina has continued to overachieve in the tree business, Ashe County being one of the many attractions for locals and tourists. “At any given moment, Ashe County could be the largest Christmas tree producing county in the entire country, with over 24 million trees in production,” said Birdsell. “Our collaborative partnerships allow farmers resources to support the largest economic commodity in Ashe County. This is our community and this is indeed the coolest corner of North Carolina.” Peak Farms is only one of the many tree farms in the High Country, standing alongside an array of others across the area such as Frosty’s Choose n’ Cut, Clawson’s Christmas Tree Farm, Shady Rest Tree Farm and more. To see a full list of North Carolina Tree Farms, visit https://ncchristmastrees.com/business-type/ choose-cut-farms/.

PHOTO COURTESY JOHN BLEVINS In the High Country, residents can experience everyday views of fields lined with Christmas trees and experience the thrill of all four seasons.

Jim’s Corner

The High Country's Oldest Furniture Store MADE IN THE USA

La-Z-Boy Craftmaster Vaughan Bassett Southern Motion Serta More

New Farm Tables! 128

Solid Wood Bedrooms

Jim’s Corner FURNITURE STORE

160 Northwest School Rd., Warrensville, NC 5 miles north of West Jefferson , on the right, at thhe intersection of NC Hwys. 88 W/ 194 N

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

WINTER TIMES 2021

Places to find your next Christmas Tree Appalachian Evergreens, Inc. Phone: (828)264-1609 620 Sampson Road Boone, North Carolina 28607

Avery Farms / Trinity Tree Company Phone: (828)733-5052 615 Avery Lane Plumtree, North Carolina 28664

Bear Valley Farm

142 Tannenbaum Lane Vilas, NC 28692

Douglas R. Clark Nursery DBA C&G Nursery Email: drcn1@live.com Phone: (828)733-4850 204 White Pine Rd Newland, NC 28657

Dutch Cove Christmas Tree Farm

Phone: (828)736-1405 231 Bee Tree Rd Glenville, North Carolina 28736

Email: dctreefarm@aol.com Phone: (828)400-0806 280 Setzer Drive Canton, NC 28716

Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm

Fir Heaven Sake Christmas Tree Farm

Email: trees@boydmountain.com Phone: (828)926-8888 445 Boyd Farm Rd, Waynesville, NC 28785

Brown Family Farm

Email: masonfiresmith@gmail.com Phone: (828)674-1067 740 Odoms Chapel Road, Buladean, undefined 28705

Buck Knob Farm

Email: tomwaller55@gmail.com Phone: (828)743-0248 1051 Wolf Knob Road, Cullowhee, NC 28723

C & J Christmas Trees

Email: candjchristmastrees@nccta.com Phone: (828)264-6694 1999 Brookshire Rd,Boone, NC 28607

Cartner Christmas Tree Farm

Email: cartner@carolinafraserfir.com Phone: (828)733-1641 901 Balsam Drive PO Box 247 Newland, NC 28657

Circle C Tree Farms

Email: circlectrees@gmail.com Phone: (828)265-7504 372 Will Cook Road Boone, NC 28607

Clawson’s Christmas Tree Farm

Email: clawsons@ncchristmastrees.com Phone: (828)719-6395 4805 194 N Boone, NC 28607

Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm Email: cdtreefarm@skybest.com Phone: (828)964-6322 WINTER TIMES 2021

Email: ricktrees@yahoo.com Phone: (828)361-4350 40 Fir Heaven Sake Lane Topton, NC 28781

Mehaffey Tree Farm

Email: mmehaffe@gmail.com Phone: (828)476-8505 24 Corner Drive Waynesville, NC 28785

Mistletoe Meadows

Email: mistletoem@skybest.com Phone: (336)465-9754 583 Burnt Hill Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644

Panoramic View Christmas Tree Farm

Email: Panoramictreefarm@yahoo.com Phone: (828)719-6395 368 Panoramic Lane Boone, NC 28607

Pressley Tree Farm LLC

Frosty Mountain Christmas Trees

Email: scottpressley1946@gmail.com Phone: (828)743-2275 770 Shirley Pressley Rd. Glenville, NC 28736

Frosty’s Choose & Cut

Email: rbreece@skybest.com Phone: (828)898-5642 241 John Jones Rd Elk Park, NC 28622

Email: frostymountainchristmastrees@gmail.com Phone: (828)656-8100 13623 Hwy 212 Marshall, NC 28753 Email: sextonfarms@skybest.com Phone: (800)238-8733 2152 Beaver Creek School Rd West Jefferson, NC 28694

Helms Christmas Tree Farm Email: henryhelms@bellsouth.net Phone: (704)276-1835 6345 Christmas Tree Lane Vale, NC 28168

Jonas Ridge Tree Farm Email: shelltrio@att.net Phone: (828)733-4654 8050 Joe Poore Rd Jonas Ridge, NC 28641

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

McInnis Tree Farm/Wishon Evergreens

Email: Wishontrees@skybest.com Phone: (336)372-7086 468 Presnell Road Glade Valley, NC 28627

Reece Farm & Nursery

Reeves Tree Farm

Email: reeveslandscaping96@gmail.com Phone: (828)779-0115 9507 NC 63 Hwy Leicester, NC 28748

Roan Valley Tree Farm

Email: waynetree@charter.net Phone: (828)688-2675 1030 Green Creek Road Bakersville, NC 28705

Roberts Tree Farm

Email: alleghanytrees@hotmail.com Phone: (336)657-8587 223 Wilson Rd Ennice, NC 28623

Sandy Hollar Farms

Email: sandyholfm@aol.com Phone: (828)683-3645 63 Sandy Hollar Lane Leicester, NC 28748

Shady Rest Tree Farm

Email: srtreefarm@skybest.com Phone: (336)977-1659 287 Trading Post Road Glendale Springs, NC 28629

Smoky Mountain Christmas Tree Farm Email: r115angel@aol.com Phone: (828)400-2933 756 Hemphill Road Waynesville, NC 28785

Snow Creek Christmas Trees Email: jlwilson513@gmail.com Phone: (828)385-2388 447 Wilson Rd Bakersville, NC 28705

Snowy Mountain Christmas Tree Farm Email: snowymtn@yahoo.com Phone: (828)733-9589 4699 Linville Falls Why 221 S Newland, NC 28657

Spillman’s Christmas Tree Farm

Email: spillmanschristmastrees@gmail.com Phone: (336)495-1090 1576 Will Coltrane Rd Sophia, NC 27350

Stone Mountain Farms

Email: staylor239@gmail.com Phone: (828)773-7651 301 Sherry Reece Lane Trade, TN 37691

Stonewall Christmas Trees

Email: cmwilson1510@gmail.com Phone: (828)467-0628 1510 Mckinney Cove RD. Bakersville, NC 28705

Sugar Plum Farm

Email: sugarplumfarm@att.net Phone: (828)765-0019 1263 Isaacs Branch Rd Newland, NC 28657

Two D’s Nursery

Email: johnd@twodsnursery.com Phone: (828) 733-6686 7849 Linville Falls Highway Newland, NC 28657

Wintergreen Farm

Email: wintergreenfarm@gmail.com Phone: (423)727-2593 223 Waddell Rd. Mountain City, TN 37683

Yeater’s Christmas Trees

Email: dsyeater@gmail.com Phone: (828)674-3884 489 River Walk Dr, Burnsville, NC 28714 129

Cold beers BY IAN TAYLOR

FOR THE COLD WINTER

inter is a top-flight season for beer, with many new brews coming out every year using spices and flavors that increase in popularity as the temperature decreases. The High Country is home to numerous breweries willing to take chances and take advantage of the classic combination of cold and beer. If you asked 10 High Country residents, “Where’s the best place to grab a drink?” they may give you 10 different answers. In recent years, the area has become the home to a blossoming brew scene with a variety of flavors.

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN BREWERY

More commonly known as AMB, Appalachian Mountain Brewery is the home of more than 100 beers and ciders. Since its founding in 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 130

FILE PHOTO Matt Wurst and Amber Steward hand out beer tastings from the Appalachian Mountain Brewery tent at High Country Beer Fest.

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 apple-

based cider infused with green tea, rhubarb and strawberries. AMB also has events every week including open mic nights, fundraisers and charitable endeavors. For more information, you can go to their

website, www.amb.beer, or call (828) 263-1111.

BLOWING ROCK BREWING

After more than a decade in the business, Blowing Rock Brewing has stuck to its core val-

ues 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. SEE BEERS ON PAGE 131

WINTER TIMES 2021

BEERS

Jefferson.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 130

BOONESHINE BREWING COMPANY

Other offerings on tap include the Cloud Rise IPA, with notes of crushed pineapple and orange zest, and the autumn exclusive Mel Electrum Honey Amber Ale. 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, www.blowingrockbrewing.com, or call (828) 414-9600.

BOONDOCKS BREWING

Boondocks is a constant presence in the West Jefferson and Ashe County communities, and their beers reflect that. The brewery has released beers like the Blue Ridge Brutal Brown, which celebrates the endurance of the annual Blue Ridge Brutal Bike Race, and the West Jefferson Centennial Ale, which was first brewed for the celebration of West Jefferson’s 100th Anniversary. When they aren’t celebrating their home, Boondocks is putting out brews like the Rocket Science IPA and the Strawberry-Blonde Mint Saison.

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE Greg Hershner of New River Brewing passes along a beer to a festival goer during the 2021 Stomp N’ Brew.

Boondocks is home to both the Brew Haus and a restaurant section, so those who just want to drink and grab a bite are covered. In the Brew Haus, visitors can see the tanks used to brew their new favorite beers, each named after some 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

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 Champagne in the Membrane, a champagne-style grape ale. The brewery opened a new location in 2019, doubling as a restaurant serving delicious food to pair with delicious beer. Since its opening, the new spot has hosted events, live music and people looking for a good time while becoming a staple of the Boone beer scene. For more information, you can go to their website, booneshine.beer, call (828) 386-4066 or stop by 465 Industrial Park Drive in Boone.

KETTELL BEERWORKS

The Banner Elk brewers feature three tiers of alcohol by volume and a few seasonal beers. The variety allows for new drinkers to find their niche, or challenge themSEE BEERS ON PAGE 132

Custom Knives for the Kitchen and Outdoors ‒ Showroom Hours: Wed-Sun 12pm-5pm ‒ 2780 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604

(828) 850-9250

WINTER TIMES 2021

131

BEERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 131

selves 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 Copper Elk is an American amber with slight hints of chocolate and caramel. 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 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. In 2021, the brewery opened a second location on the other side of Boone, just off U.S. 421. The satellite operation does not have a kitchen, instead hosting a massive brewing operation to allow Lost Province to spread its beer far and wide. 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 Lan-

132

sing 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 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.

NEW RIVER BREWING

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Founded by the father- Tasting glasses are offered at High Country Beer Fest. and-son team of Greg and Adam Hershner in Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Lansing, the brewery Restaurant quickly became a staple in 108 S. Jefferson Ave. restaurants and stores in West Jefferson the area. (336) 246-5222 Appalachian Mountain Brewery www.boondocksbeer.com Now in West Jefferson, 163 Boone Creek Drive the brewery has expanded to Boone Kettell Beerworks a whole restaurant, with food to compli(828) 263-1111 567 Main St. East ment their beer. www.amb.beer Banner Elk Some of their beers include the Tipsy (828) 898-8677 Beech Mountain Brewing Company Kilt, with flavors of toffee, vanilla and www.kettellbeerworks.com 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy. dark fruit which spent more than 200 Beech Mountain Lost Province Brewing Company days in a bourbon barrel for maximum (828) 387-2011 ext. 208 130 N. Depot St. flavor, their Rye R Squared, an ampedwww.beechmountainresort.com/mountain/ Boone up version of a traditional English barbrewery (828) 265-3506 leywine and the Hopsessive Compulsive, www.lostprovince.com which combines fruity notes with a bitter Blowing Rock Brewing Company 152 Sunset Drive backbone. Molley Chomper Blowing Rock Outside of their own building, New 165 Piney Creek Rd. (828) 414-9600 Lansing River’s brews can be found in establishwww.blowingrockbrewing.com (336) 488-0809 ments throughout the High Country such www.molleychomper.com in Boone, and as The Rock and Macado’s Booneshine Brewing Company Carolina Country Wines and Craft Beers 465 Industrial Park Drive New River Brewing in West Jefferson. Boone 108 South 3rd Ave. (828) 278-8006 For more information, you can go to West Jefferson www.booneshine.beer their website, newriverbrewing.beer, or (336) 846-2739 www.newriverbrewing.beer call (336) 846-2739.

BREWERIES OF THE HIGH COUNTRY

WINTER TIMES 2021

for Lending a Helping Hand Winter’s cold temperatures always result in tough challenges for those struggling to pay electric or fuel bills. That’s why so many people have stepped up to join Blue Ridge Energy in helping out. Thanks to the generosity of thousands of Blue Ridge members and customers who participate in Operation Round Up® and Operation Round Up® Plus, more than 2,500 local residents have received crisis energy assistance during the last 12 months. Through Operation Round Up, participants voluntarily round up their electric bills to the next dollar amount. The average contribution of just fifty cents per month (or $6 a year),

WINTER TIMES 2021

joined with others’ gifts, goes a long way in sharing warmth and hope with neighbors in need. Many members are going the extra mile through Operation Round Up Plus. In addition to rounding up their bills, they contribute an extra amount to assist deserving families. They have generously donated an additional $1, $5 or even $10 a month.

Join Operation Round Up or Operation Round Up Plus today. Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ORU.

Be a good neighbor and lend a helping hand. Join Blue Ridge Energy in supporting your neighbors in need. And THANK YOU to all those who have helped along the way!

133

No reason to

about

High Country Wines 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 Riesing, 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.

BY IAN TAYLOR

hile winter is beloved for the beautiful snowy landscapes and cold weather that encourages fashionable jackets, the season is also perfect for sitting at home by the fire with some light music on and a glass of wine in your hand. The big decision is what wine will be in that glass. The High Country features numerous local wineries that can find the perfect drink for those relaxing nights.

THISTLE MEADOW WINERY

BANNER ELK WINERY AND VILLA

Banner Elk Winery and Villa was the first winery in Avery County after opening in 2005, and since then has made its mark as one of the premiere wineries in the High Country. It’s won awards, including a gold, silver and two bronze medals for its products at the 2016 North Carolina State Fair. Aside from the wine, Banner Elk Winery and Villa features numerous suites for guests to stay in, and is a destination wedding location.

134

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

For more information on Banner Elk Winery and Villa, visit www. bannerelkwinery.com.

GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY Starting as a hobbysized 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 winery’s tasting room allows guests to choose from four tasting experiences: eight dry

wines for $10, four dry reds for $6, four dry whites for $6 or four sweet wines for $6. Reservations are not needed for the tasting room, and the area is pet friendly. For a group of eight or more visitors, it’s requested to call 48 hours in advance. For more information on Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, visit www. grandfathervineyard.com.

LINVILLE FALLS WINERY

Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Linville Falls Winery offers a space for weddings, private events, classes and reservations. Guests can get a tasting experience that is both child- and pet- friendly. For those of age, chosen wines can be tasted in one-ounce pours with requests taken for a glass

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, easy-drinking taste with fresh berry flavors, the Feather Bed White, which has hints SEE WINES ON PAGE 136

WINTER TIMES 2021

in the Carolinas Under Contract

278 Log Hollow Road | $1,849,000

127 Bitter Root Drive | $1,049,000

Boone 27607 | MLS #233741 Mike Quinto | 919-368-2249

Blowing Rock 28605 | MLS #233737 Jaco Gerbrands | 951-283-9927

144 Fern Terrace | $724,000 Blowing Rock 28605 | MLS #233316 Suheila Bookwalter | 281-300-0459

697 Jordan V. Cook Road | $450,000

Boone 28607 | MLS #233578 Terri Lockwood | 828-773-2647

BLOWING ROCK 6236 US Hwy 321 S | 828-295-7337 BOONE 736 West King Street | 828-278-8337 ®

Official Realtor of App State Athletics

WINTER TIMES 2021

allentate.com

135

WINES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 134

of green apple, melon and citrus and Double Black, with a taste of sweet black cherries and Pinot Noir. The winery was recently ranked third among North Carolina wineries by the South Eastern Winery Review and scored a perfect “10” in friendliness. Thistle Meadow can create custom wines and blends as well as private label products. For more information on Thistle Meadow Winery, visit www.thistlemeadowwinery.com.

MENARICK VINEYARD & WINERY

MenaRick Vineyard & Winery is a family owned vineyard in Wilkes County that specializes 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. 136

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

WINERIES OF THE HIGH COUNTRY Banner Elk Winery and Villa Banner Elk 60 Deer Run Lane (828) 898-9090 bannerelkwinery.com

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery Banner Elk, 225 Vineyard Lane (828) 963-2400 grandfathervineyard.com

Linville Falls Winery

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

Thistle Meadow Winery Laurel Springs 102 Thistle Meadow (800) 233-1505 thistlemeadowwinery.com

PHOTO SUBMITTED Starting as a hobby-sized vineyard, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Banner Elk grew into a business and opened its doors in 2011.

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

WINTER TIMES 2021

Christmas in Beeville at Hidden Happiness Bee Farm open for holiday season BY MOSS BRENNAN

idden Happiness Bee Farm has opened its Beeville Seasonal Christmas Shop at its 1060 Chestnut Mountain Road location, which means fun for the whole family. “(Visitors) will have a shopping experience,”

WINTER TIMES 2021

said H.S. Greene, who opened the Hidden Happiness Store in 2019. “We have something for everyone. We’ve got something for the kids, adults and for senior citizens. We’ve got something for everybody.” Greene said the candy room will be all stocked up for kids to enjoy as well as a bee village on

display. In addition to candy, Hidden Happiness Bee Farm will have creamed honey. “I’m not kidding, if you’ve never tried it out we’ve got six flavors in stock,” Greene said. “It is phenomenal. You use it on toast, bagels. You put it on ice cream, baked sweet potatoes and apples.”

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 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. Visitors can also take a look at how honey is actually extracted for consumption. Store hours are from

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with special 2 to 6 p.m. holiday hours on Sunday leading up to Christmas. Buses and RVs are welcome and a circular driveway is available for ease in maneuvering these larger vehicles. SEE BEEVILLE ON PAGE 140

137

BISON

EMU • VENISON • ELK • MOUNTAIN TROUT • BOAR • DUCK

HANGING TENDERLOIN

A N

A D V E N T U R E

fettuccine primavera with chardonnay thyme cream

grilled pekin duck breast

I N

F I N E

escargots a la bourguignonne

D I N I N G

godiva chocolate martini cheesecake

O U T D O O R D IN IN G • BAR / LO U N G E • C R AF T CO C K TAIL S • PR I VAT E FU N C T I O NS 138

WINTER TIMES 2021

Your Occasion.

Our Pleasure!

AAA FOUR DIAMOND RATING SINCE 2007

GAMEK EEPER- NC.COM

ADVAN CE R E S E RVAT I O N S S T R O N G LY R ECO M M E N D E D

30 05 SH U LL S M ILL R OAD B E T W EEN B O O N E & B LOW IN G R O C K | (8 28) 9 63-74 0 0 WINTER TIMES 2021

139

BEEVILLE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 137

“I saw a need for the locals to have a place to come and get bee supplies,” Greene said. “We carry a complete lineup of supplies from the wooden wire to the tools to the personal protection equipment and the medication. We carry everything in the line that you need to be successful.” Greene also said he wanted to start the bee farm for education and as a place for new beekeepers to learn and be able to thrive in their role. 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 or call (336) 973-5412.

140

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

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

WINTER TIMES 2021

Authentic New York style deli serving the highest quality meats!

Caribbean Inspired Kitchen and Bar

App State students, faculty, and alumni 20% off

We Cater and Host Private Events

246-E Wilson Dr, Boone, NC

488 Main Street W Banner Elk, NC

kenneth@nydelinc.com • newyorkdelinc.com

www.bodegasbe.com

(828) 386-6006

828.898.7773

Professional real estate photography Specializing in MLS listings, vacation rentals, virtual tours, and drone photography Currently serving Watauga and Avery Counties

Restaurant and Wine Bar

For menus and hours please visit our website at vidaliaofboonenc.com

831 West King Street | 828.263.9176 | www.vidaliaofboonenc.com | Reservations Strongly Recommended WINTER TIMES 2021

b ra n ch . r i ch te r @ g m a i l . c o m w w w . b r a n c h r i c h t e r p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m 141

Proudly Serving You Like Family for 61 Years!

Tasting and Restaurant Restaurant Tasting room room and Openour fornew lunchoutdoor and dinner Tuesday - Sunday. Visit beerfrom garden in East Boone.

www.booneshine.beer www.booneshine.beer

BOONESHINE BREWING COMPANY COMPANY

465 465 INDUSTRIAL PARK PARK DRIVE, DRIVE, BOONE, BOONE, NC, NC, 28607 28607

southern style with a gourmet fair

Banner Elk Location:

Blowing Rock Location:

Boone Location:

Banner Elk Location: Location: The Pedalin’ Pig atBoone 2968-A 4235 Hwy 105 South Hwy 105 Woodlands 4235 Hwy 105 South 2968-A Hwy 105 Banner Elk, NC 28604 Boone, NC 28607 8304 Valley Blvd. Boone, NC 28607 Banner Elk, NC 28604 Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.898.7500

..........

828.355.9559

828.898.7500828.295.3651 828.355.9559

ThePedalinPig.com Dine-in · Take Out · Delivery and Catering 142

WINTER TIMES 2021

Lunch specials starting at $7.49 Buffet with over 100 items! Lunch $9.59 Dinner $12.59 Family owned and operated. Mon-Fri 11:00AM - 9:00PM Sat. 11:00AM-9:30PM Sun. 11:00AM-9:30PM 1161 S 226 Hwy Spruce Pine, NC 28777

828-765-9151

Eat

Drink

Sleep

Dine-In/Take-Out Available: 12pm-8pm Tues-Sat by Phone:

(828) 295-3487

JOIN US FOR OUR BURGER AND BEER SPECIALS! LOCAL’S NIGHT EVERY THURSDAY! 239 SUNSET DR., BLOWING ROCK, NC 28605

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, BRUNCH, ALL AT ONCE!

828.295.9703 • Ragged-Gardens.com • 828.295.3466 WINTER TIMES 2021

FAMOUS TOASTERY 349 SUNSET DR, BLOWING ROCK, NC 28605 PHONE: (828) 414-9813 FamousToastery.com 143

Home of the Famous Bagelicious

HOURS: Monday - Sunday 7:00am - 3:00pm

Boone’s Original Bagel Shop Since 1988 Serving Breakfast and Lunch All Day 14 Varieties of Freshly Baked Bagels Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options Available Featuring: Deli Sandwiches, Fresh Salads, Home made Flavored Cream Cheeses, Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast, Burgers Now Offering Espresso & Cappuccino

828-264-7772

970 Rivers Street • Boone Follow us on facebook for our daily food and drink specials

Indoor or Outdoor Dining www.cafeportofino.net

Join us and watch every NFL game, every Sunday with the NFL Sunday Ticket

Call for Take Out & Delivery

OLD DOWNTOWN LOCATION 516 West King Street 828.262.5585 | www.boonebagelry.com

The Spice and Tea Exchange 12B S Jefferson Ave Downtown West Jefferson, NC

336-846-8327

144

1087 Main St #4, Blowing Rock, NC 28605

828-372-7070

WINTER TIMES 2021

ADVERTISERS INDEX ABBEY CARPET ...................................................................38

DOE RIDGE POTTERY ........................................................58

MOLLY NORTHERN INTERIORS ...................................... 21

ALLEN TATE REALTORS .................................................. 135

DOE RIVER GORGE ............................................................43

MOUNTAIN DOG ................................................................. 55

ANTIQUES ON HOWARD ................................................... 59

ECHOTA ............................................................................... 61

MOUNTAIN HOME & HEARTH .........................................48

APPALACHIAN ANTIQUE MALL .......................................58

EDGE OF THE WORLD .......................................................29

MOUNTAIN LAND ..............................................................127

APPALACHIAN REGIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM .... 123

ENGLE & VOLKERS ..............................................................9

MOUNTAIN TIME ON MAIN ..............................................68

ASHE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ....................................64

ENGLISH FARMSTEAD CHEESE ..................................... 108

MUSEUM OF ASHE COUNTY .............................................64

ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL ........................................64

ENSEMBLE STAGE .............................................................. 97

MY BEST FRIENDS BARKERY ...........................................63

ASHE COUNTY CHEESE .....................................................64

FAMILY BILLIARDS .................................................... 61, 140

MYSTERY HILL ...................................................................87

AVERY COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ...................66

FAMOUS TOASTERY ................................................... 56, 143

NEW RIVER BUILDING SUPPLIES ................................. 109

AVERY KNIFEWORKS .......................................................131

FARMERS RENTALS & POWER .........................................85

NEW YORK DELI ................................................................141

BANNER ELK OLIVE OIL COMPANY ................................63

FILLMORE ...........................................................................68

NORTH WILKESBORO TOURISM ..................................... 35

BANNER ELK WINERY ....................................................... 65

FLY TRI .................................................................................83

OVER YONDER ....................................................................60

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT ....................................... 53, 93

FOSCOE REALTY RENTALS ............................................. 147

PARAMOUNT MOTORS .................................................... 146

BERNHARDT ......................................................................... 3

FRED & LARRY’S COFFEE ..................................................92

PARKER TIE .........................................................................64

BEST CELLAR .................................................................... 143

FREDS GENERAL MERCANTILE ...................................... 37

PEDALIN PIG ..................................................................... 142

BLACK BEAR WINE AND SPIRITS ...............................17, 70

GAMEKEEPER RESTAURANT ..................................138, 139

POPPY’S WILDCRAFT ..........................................................71

BLACKBERRY CREEK MATTRESS COMPANY ........... 61, 99

GBS ........................................................................................84

RADIOSHACK OF NEWLAND ............................................ 67 RAM’S RACK ........................................................................ 59

BLOWING ROCK ATTRACTION .........................................23

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN ............................................44

BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ............... 105

GRANDFATHER MTN CAMPGROUND ............................. 41

RANDY MARION ................................................................121

BLOWING ROCK ESTATE JEWELRY ................................ 57

GRANDFATHER VINEYARD .............................................. 61

RECESS ................................................................................. 13

BLOWING ROCK FURNITURE GALLERY ........................... 7

GREGORY ALAN’S ............................................................... 56

REMAX ................................................................................. 19

BLUE RIDGE ELECTRIC ................................................... 133

HAPPY SHACK ....................................................................137

ROAN MOUNTAIN PHARMACY .......................................101

BODEGAS ............................................................................141

HAWKSNEST ....................................................................... 31

ROCK DIMENSIONS ...........................................................58

BOONE BAGELRY ....................................................... 58, 144

HELLBENDER ............................................................. 56, 143

SHOPPES AT TYNECASTLE ......................................... 72, 73

BOONE’S FLY SHOP ............................................................ 47

HIGH COUNTRY ANTIQUES .............................................115

SKYLINE TELEPHONE CORP .......................................... 128

BOONESHINE .................................................................... 142

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS ....................................................64

SORRENTOS BISTRO ..........................................................62

BODACIOUS FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT ...................... 125

IMPECCABLE POOCH ......................................................... 55

SPICE AND TEA EXCHANGE ........................................... 144

BRANCH RICHTER ............................................................141

INCREDIBLE TOY COMPANY ............................................88

STONEWALL’S ............................................................. 63, 142

BRASS EXCHANGE, THE .................................................. 103

JEFFERSON LANDING ...................................................... 111

SUGAR BRONZE ..................................................................92

BRUSHY MOUNTAIN POWERSPORTS, INC .................... 95

JENKINS REALTORS .......................................................... 14

SUGARTOP RESORT ......................................................... 148

CABIN STORE ..................................................................... 117

JIM’S CORNER FURNITURE ...................................... 64, 128

SUPERIOR SPAS ..................................................................20

CAFÉ PORTOFINO ............................................................ 144

PATRICK MORGAN WITH

TATUM GALLERIES ............................................................ 61

CARLTON GALLERY ................................................. 106, 107

KELLER WILLIAMS HIGH COUNTRY .............................. 27

TAYLOR HOUSE INN ..........................................................60

CARTER COUNTY TOURISM ...........................................108

KINCAID ................................................................................. 3

THE CAMEO THEATER ........................................................8

CASA RUSTICA .................................................................. 144

LAKEVIEW NURSERY .........................................................71

THE COLORFUL GYPSY ......................................................69

CENTURY 21 MOUNTAIN VISTAS ................................ 10, 11

LEATHERWOOD MOUNTAIN ........................................... 51

TREE HOUSE MOUNTAIN REALTY ..................................38

CHETOLA RESORT AT BLOWING ROCK .......................... 79

LINVILLE LAND HARBOR P.O.A. .................................. 2, 81

TWISTED TWIG ...................................................................48

CLASSIC STONE WORKS ....................................................49

LOST PROVINCE ................................................................. 59

VANNOY PROPERTIES ................................................. 74, 75

COIN JUNCTION ............................................................... 123

MAIN STREET SHOES ........................................................68

VIDALIA .............................................................................141

COMBS PROPERTIES ....................................................63, 66

MAST FARM INN .................................................................60

VILLAGE JEWELERS ......................................................... 59 VILLAGE OF BANNER ELK ................................................63

CRUZ THRU .........................................................................66

MCCOY MINERALS ........................................................... 189

DAN’L BOONE INN ........................................................... 142

MILLER PROPERTIES ........................................................ 27

WESTERN SIZZLIN ......................................................71, 143

DIANNE DAVANT .......................................................... 45, 61

MINK CRAFTS .....................................................................70

YELLOW MOUNTAIN ENTERPRISES ...............................66

DISTINCTIVE CABINETRY .................................................33

MITCHELL COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ...........39

YUMMI YARNS ....................................................................69

WINTER TIMES 2021

145

146

WINTER TIMES 2021

Live

Above it All.

SUGAR TOP

Sales

828-898-5226 | Arrington Rankhorn - General Manager | www.sugartop.com

Winter Times 2021-22

Articles inside

Restaurants

Christmas in Beeville

Beer and Breweries

High Country Wines

High Country Spas

General Stores

Gift Giving

Caving

Winter in Banner Elk

Christmas Tree Tips and Tricks

Art Galleries

Schaefer Center

The Appalachian Theatre

Main Stages

Blue Ridge Parkway

Frescoes of the High Country

Mystery Hill

Holiday Happenings

Winterfest

Fly Fishing

Winter Wardrobe

Go for a Hike

Winter Driving

Woolly Worm Success

Snow Sports

Winter Ziplining

Hawksnest

Beech Mountain Resort

Sledding

Snowboarding in the High Country

Sugar Mountain Resort

Appalachian Ski Mtn

Snowshoeing