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AUTUMN ‘26

Carolina Mountain Life

read us online at cmlmagazine.online

Ah, Autumn! . . . a wonderful read for 29 years!

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Spend your fall days in crisp mountain air surrounded by vibrant color. Wander scenic trails, celebrate at a fall festival, and savor seasonal flavors at local restaurants. No matter how you spend your time, one memorable moment leads to the next. Because in Boone, you’ll do more than explore — you’ll Feel Something More.

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What’s Inside: 19....... The Joy of Autumn Festivals By CML Staff

Cover photo: Capturing the Colors of Fall at a Local Farmers’ Market, by Tamara Randolph

24....... Hands and Hearts Behind the Scenes By Karen Rieley

26....... Regional Happenings By CML Staff

35....... Barter Theatre Brings Revolutionary History to Life Special to CML

37....... Cultural Calendar By CML Staff

43....... Here Rests in Honored Glory By Steve York

47....... Where the Music Is! By CML Staff

57....... Gathering Up History in the Tradition of Basket Making By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

59....... On Site with Anvil Arts By Edwin Ansel

64....... From the Past to the Present—The Ole Burley Market By Kate Hamilton Pardee

90....... A Newbie’s Guide for Exploring the Appalachian Trail By Steve York

109..... Gearing Up to Close the Gap By Julie Farthing

118..... Through the Lens: Agritourism in the High Country Special to CML

Art Remarks . . . 50

Locally Crafted Gift Guide . . . 61

Where are They Now? with Trimella Chaney . . . 67

The Big Picture Show with Elizabeth Baird Hardy . . . 68

Book Nook with Nan Chase and CML Staff . . .69

autumn! Wisdom and Ways with Jim Casada . . . 71

Notes from Grandfather Mountain . . . 74 Trail Reports with Tamara S. Randolph . . . 76

Blue Ridge Explorers with Tamara S. Randolph . . . 83

Birding with Paul Laurent . . . 87

Hardy on History with Michael C. Hardy . . . 95

Community and Local Business News . . . 97 Mia’s Corner with Mia Goheen . . . 105

Resource Circle with Tamara S. Randolph . . . 111 Local Tidbits . . . 112

Recipes from the CML Kitchen . . . 128

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 — 9

10 — CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26

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Carolina Mountain Life

PUBLISHER’S NOTE TM

I love our fall season—don’t you? A publication of Carolina Mountain Life, Inc. ©2026 by Carolina Mountain Life Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Publisher. Babette McAuliffe, Publisher & Editor in Chief Deborah Mayhall-Bradshaw, Design Director Tamara S. Randolph, Managing Editor Kathy Griewisch, Account Manager Meagan Goheen, Marketing Manager Contributors: Edwin Ansel, Jim Casada, Trimella Chaney Nan Chase, Kim S. Davis, Julie Farthing, Brennan Ford Morgan Ford, Mia Goheen, Gail Greco, Elizabeth Baird Hardy Michael C. Hardy, Paul Laurent, Kate Hamilton Pardee, Sherri Pengjad, Karen Rieley Nannette White, Doug Winbon, and Steve York.

Share us with a friend! CML is published 4 times a year and is available by subscription for $35.00 a year (continental US) Send check or money order to: Carolina Mountain Life, PO Box 976, Linville, NC 28646

The mix of vivid and muted leaf colors falling like little airlifted umbrellas, leaving a color palette on the trails and roadways that call us to get out and enjoy. I love the crispness in the air, and that I can bring out all my cozy sweatshirts. And attending our fall festivals tops my list of favorite activities. I love hiking my favorite trails and listening to the crunching sound the leaves make beneath my hiking boots, watching the moonrise over the Blue Ridge Parkway, a walk around Bass Lake, App State football games, decorating the Woolly Worm stage with my family and friends, collecting acorns and pinecones to make Christmas ornaments, tasting all the varieties of apples that hit our local produce stands, picking out the perfect carving pumpkin and making a jacko-lantern and then roasting the pumpkin seeds, baking molasses cookies and gingerbread with local Whole Hive Honey, and just basking in the tapestry of fall. While enjoying all that makes this season special, I am reminded on the 2nd anniversary of Helene’s destruction that many in our communities are still grappling with recovery. High Country businesses now more than ever need our support to “buy local” and show our unwavering dedication. I hope we can all be patient as repairs continue on roads and bridges that were washed away or compromised and remember how far we have come since fall of 2024. Full recovery will take years, and we all need to stand together in the long-term efforts. While I pass over so many of the restored bridges, I’m aware of the relationships that were bridged during and after the storm. I have new and dear friends—you all know who you are and how important you have become in my life. If it were not for Helene, I may never have known you, and that is one silver lining out of the devastation.

autumn! cmlbabette@gmail.com CMLmagazine.online 828-964-0009

As we head into autumn of 2026, I invite you to join me in relishing this exquisite season. Celebrate at a festival, try new recipes with fall veggies, take more hikes, pick up leaves and press them in a book to capture the season’s colors, get out there and explore. Bridges carry us and connect us. May we all enjoy a stroll with a loved one across a leaf covered bridge or a drive along a scenic route and give thanks this season.

PS: We would love to hear about your experiences this fall season—email us at cmlbabette@gmail.com

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 — 13

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From Our Readers “CML is by far my favorite magazine of our WNC mountains!” — M.B.

“I wanted to share with you how much I love CML Magazine!! We have enjoyed it for many years and I even had it sent to me in Texas before we started living here, in Eagles Nest, for six months out of the year. I look forward to every publication! It helps me and my husband plan our time here and helps all of our visitors too. We leave a copy in every guest room to help guests plan where to eat, shop, explore, drink, and have fun! It is such a wonderful resource and I love it. . . it makes mountain living even more special. The covers are always so beautiful! Thank you for all that you do to offer this amazing magazine for free and for delivering it to so many places! The summer ‘26 edition is just fabulous!!” — L.A.S.

BEHIND THE CURTAIN:

Get to Know Our Contributors Edwin Ansel Edwin’s connection to the High Country goes back fifty years to idyllic summer vacations spent hiking on Grandfather Mountain, exploring Linville Falls, and picnicking at Beacon Heights. More recently, his attempted semi-retirement to Linville has morphed into a full-throated third career driving a heavy truck out of Elk Park and making occasional contributions to CML. If you enjoy his feature articles and book reviews, check out his novels and short stories on Amazon Kindle. Look at “Airport Novel”—it has a chapter describing Linville in the good old days. Read Edwin’s article, “On Site with Anvil Arts,” on page 59. Mia Goheen Mia is 12 years old and was born in Watauga County. She is an aspiring writer for CML Magazine. Mia loves her family, friends, and pets; playing volleyball, playing outside and being in the water; and reading, creating art and eating great food! She has always been a helping hand in the magazine, from delivery, to the recipes, or an extra eye for graphic design. She is excited to have a space in the magazine to hear from CML readers! See “Mia’s Corner” on page 105. Elizabeth Baird Hardy A frequent contributor and our “Big Picture Show” columnist, Elizabeth comes from a long line of Appalachian storytellers. Writing for CML allows her to tell stories that celebrate our region and its people. An instructor of English and Humanities for Mayland Community College, she is the author of Milton, Spenser, and the Chronicles of Narnia and has contributed to several volumes on literature and popular culture. Her newest book, Appalachia in the Hunger Games: Real Life Roots of District 12, was published this summer. She can often be found with her family, walking in the woods, or volunteering as a historic interpreter, teaching about topics ranging from eighteenth-century medicine to WWII Victory Gardens. Enjoy reading Elizabeth’s articles, “Gathering up History in the Tradition of Basket Making” on page 57, and “Big Picture Show” on page 68.

autumn!

“I love CML. I always pick up a copy whenever I am in WNC. It is very informative and I always learn about new businesses. Thank you!” — T.M.

“It’s such a helpful and educational magazine. Thank you for all you do to make it happen!” — C.A.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Sharing the High Country’s Most Distinctive Homes ...And The Stories That

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18 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Brushy Mountain Apple Festival

Wildcat Lake, Banner Elk Fall Fesitval at Hickory Ridge Museum

Fall Festival Guide Celebrate the Best of the Season

From Boone to Newland... Wilkesboro to Marion... Glendale Springs to Valle Crucis... Bakersville to Shady Valley, TN—all across the Blue Ridge region, there are fall festivals for every age and interest! Here are some of the most popular in our area...

Antlers and Acorns: The Boone Songwriters Festival September 23-26 | Boone, NC This unique festival brings together the wordsmiths and the storytellers who shape our rich language and make beautiful music. Downtown Boone is the venue; the bars, restaurants, cafes, and theatre are the stage. Tourists will discover, students will learn, and locals will be reminded of why the Blue Ridge Mountains are a sacred place, a source of inspiration, and a home for creativity. For a schedule of events, visit Antlersandacornslodge. com. Appalachian Autumn Market & Fall Festival October 3 | Boone, NC Head over to Hickory Ridge Museum at Horn in the West from 2 to 6 p.m. for

this free, family-friendly event that focuses on old-time mountain traditions. All-day activities include apple butter making, pumpkin painting, corn shuck doll making, candle-dipping, hatchet throwing, face painting, weaving and spinning demonstrations, blacksmithing, self-guided historic cabin tours, live music, storytelling and a variety of vendors. Horninthewest.com

Brushy Mountain Apple Festival October 3 | North Wilkesboro, NC The annual Brushy Mountain Apple Festival, taking place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., is one of the largest one-day arts and crafts festivals in the Southeast. Designed for the entire family, the downtown streets of North Wilkesboro are filled with more than 300 Appalachian heritage arts and crafts exhibitors, 50 food concessions, plus three different music stages featuring everything from Bluegrass to Country, Gospel and Folk music. Cloggers and square dancers share their talents, too. And of course, apples take center stage as the festival pays tribute to apple orchardists across northwestern North Carolina. You’ll find every type and color of apples to sample and take home, as well as apple sauce, apple butter and apple pie. Hosted by Brushy Mountain Ruritan Club, Applefestival.net

Beech Mountain Fall Festival

By CML Staff High Country Honey Festival October 3 | Jefferson, NC Head over to the Ashe County Ag Center in Jefferson, NC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. for some sweet fun! The High Country Honey Festival was established to promote the judging of world class honey and honey products; to crown a Honey Queen from the state of North Carolina to represent the “Tarheel State” at the national level; and to enjoy and celebrate all things related to honey and beekeeping. Three live bands perform throughout the day; sample foods from more than 12 food trucks and peruse over 100 vendors selling honey products, arts, crafts and other items. highcountryhoneyfestival. com Beech Mountain Fall Festival October 10 | Beech Mountain, NC Small town charm, beautiful surroundings, colorful fall foliage—you’ll find it all at Beech Mountain’s “Family Fall Flannel Fest and Leaf Looker Hayride” event. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy scenic hayrides and participate in fun games and activities for all ages. Savor the taste of freshly roasted corn and watch an oldfashioned apple press turn apples into delicious cider. This annual festival is perfect for families, friends, and anyone who Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Mountain Glory Festival in Marion

Making apple butter at the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival

The Last Supper Fresco, Holy Trinity Church Festival of the Frescoes

Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain,

photo by Todd Bush

...More Festivals loves the sights, smells and flavors of fall in the High Country. Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation hosts this event, located at 1330 Pine Ridge Rd., Beech Mountain, NC, 28604. www.townofbeechmountain.com

day for everyone, and the funds that we raise allow us to contribute to many helping agencies in Ashe County and beyond.” Hosted by the Episcopal Parish of the Holy Communion, www.holycommunionashe.org

and crafters, plus food trucks, live music, contests—including the ever-popular Best Dressed Pet Contest—and an indoor craft show featuring locally made quilts reflective of our rich mountain history. Mtngloryfestival.com

Festival of the Frescoes October 10 | Glendale Springs, NC The Annual Festival of the Frescoes at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This long-running fall festival is anchored by the ever-popular Granny’s Attic, a grand rummage sale where everything and anything is likely to be found. In addition to Granny’s Attic, a multitude of tents and booths are arrayed around the expansive Mission House grounds, featuring crafts and artwork created by artists from Ashe and surrounding counties. Baked goods and locally grown produce will also be available. The Holy Trinity Church in Glendale Springs is one of two “Church of the Frescoes” in Ashe County, with a full wall adorned by a life-sized fresco painted by world-famous artist, Benjamin F. Long— this beautiful work of art can be viewed while at the festival, which, according to Rector T. Perry Hildreth, “is an all-handson deck event for our congregation. It gives us an opportunity to connect our church to our larger community. . . a fun

Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort October 10 & 11 | Sugar Mountain, NC Enjoy the two-day Oktoberfest from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. in the North Carolina Mountains. The festival features live Bavarian music by the Harbour Towne Fest band. Feast on German and American food and beverages. Kids can enjoy the children’s fun center and hayrides. Local and regional craft vendors spread their wares. Take a scenic ride aboard the Summit Express chairlift to the mountain’s peak—the fall foliage is usually spectacular! Shop for winter wear or take home a souvenir from the sports shop. Lodging specials are available. Please note: the Bike Park is closed during this event. oktoberfest.skisugar.com

Shady Valley Cranberry Festival October 10 | Shady Valley, TN This annual event takes place at the historic Shady Rock School near this small town’s crossroads. The festival celebrates the wild cranberries that grow in the area, and features live music, craft and food vendors, an auction, a parade, and plenty of family fun. The Nature Conservancy will also offer tours of a wild cranberry bog nearby. Kick off the weekend at the Friday evening Appalachian Bean Supper. Shady Rock School is located at 423 Hwy 133 in Shady Valley, TN. Read more about Shady Valley’s wild cranberries on page 83. facebook.com/cranberryfestival99/

20 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Mountain Glory Festival October 10 | Marion, NC This heritage craft festival, now in its 43rd year, celebrates the arrival of autumn in the Blue Ridge and small-town life in the mountains. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., vendor tables and tents line the streets with offerings from local makers, artists,

The NC Mountaineer & Apple Butter Festival October 10-11 | Bakersville, NC The NC Mountaineer & Apple Butter Festival is a two-day autumn celebration held in Bakersville, NC, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy the sights, smells, and tastes of autumn on the Creekwalk with music, crafts, and more. The event highlights the Mitchell County Historical Society’s

Woolly Worm Festival Blowing Rock Halloween Festival

Valle Country Fair

Christ Newland mas T Festivree al

Blow in Win g Rock terf est

Shady Valley Cranberry Festival

traditional apple butter making and features the Mighty Mountaineer Challenge, a traditional skills contest, along with a Chili and Cornbread Cookoff, live music, and the Shriner’s car show. craftyouradventure.com/mountaineer-applebutterfestival/, 92 Crimson Laurel Way, Bakersville Valle Country Fair October 17 | Valle Crucis, NC At this popular “Community Supporting Community” event, celebrate the season with arts, crafts, food, and children’s activities from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You’ll find over 100 jury-selected artisans offering handmade creations, and food booths serving up favorites such as barbeque, Brunswick stew, homemade chili, sausages with peppers and onions, and other savory items. Plus, purchase homemade baked treats, jellies, jams and relishes to take home. Music is made throughout the day, with cloggers and magicians performing for the crowd. Behind the red barn, you’ll witness apples being squeezed into apple cider from an authentic 1940s-era press. The Kids Activity Area features games, face painting, and arts and crafts projects. See our article on the following pages for a behindthe-scenes look at the Valle Country Fair. Sponsored by Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Vallecountryfair.org

Woolly Worm Festival October 17-18 | Banner Elk, NC Celebrating 49 years, this hugely popular family-oriented festival held on the grounds of the Historic Banner Elk School includes arts, crafts, food, kids’ activities and all-day entertainment. The annual Woolly Worm Festival attracts many thousands of leaf peepers as well as locals to cheer on our favorite fuzzy caterpillars as they compete for cash prizes! Recognized by its black and orange stripes, the woolly worm is known for its legendary abilities to predict the winter weather. All proceeds help fund community schools, children’s programs and support for Avery County business and tourism. See our article on the following pages for a behindthe-scenes look at the Woolly Worm Festival. Co-hosted by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk, woollyworm.com

Located in Memorial Park, right in the middle of downtown, the festival runs from 3 to 8 p.m. Find a complete schedule of festival events at blowingrock.com/ halloween/.

Blowing Rock Halloween Festival October 31 | Blowing Rock, NC Every year, Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation puts on a fun, free Halloween Festival with an afternoon full of spooky activities! From downtown trickor-treating to the famous Monster March costume parade on Main Street, this is among the best Halloween events for kids of all ages. Enjoy carnival games, hayrides, and an assortment of festivities.

Save the Date! Winterfest 2027 January 28-31 | Blowing Rock, NC “Don’t hibernate, celebrate!” WinterFest turns the town of Blowing Rock into a magical winter wonderland filled with thrilling events and unforgettable experiences for the whole family. Plan early to attend this extremely popular winter festival. Blowingrockwinterfest.com

Newland Christmas Tree Festival November 20-21 | Newland, NC Bring your holiday spirit to Newland to celebrate America’s favorite Christmas tree: the Fraser fir! Avery County proudly stands as the second largest grower of Fraser fir trees, right behind Ashe County. The Newland Christmas Tree Festival showcases beautiful trees from dozens of local farmers—the event takes place on Friday, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday, noon – 8 p.m., at the Town Square in downtown Newland, NC. Enjoy a variety of arts and crafts, food, and family entertainment. facebook.com/newlandchristmastreefestival/

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Banner Elk is the Place to BE

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BannerElk.com 22 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

49th Woolly Worm Festival OCT. 17-18

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Oktoberfest

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O C TO B E R 10 & 11 M 10A M -5P

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Sugar Mountain Golf Club #6 Short Course in the USA!

Sugar Mountain Tennis Club Har-tru clay courts with a view!

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SeeSugar.com/tennis CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Valle Country Fair,

photo by Catherine Morton

(Photo by Steve Hopper)

Volunteer Brenda Lowman at the Valle Country Fair Sausage Booth

Hands and Hearts Behind the Scenes W

ords don’t do the harvest season in the High Country justice with its kaleidoscope of senses—sights, sounds and smells—that the region’s many festivals and fairs encapsulate. Tents feature local artists’ handiwork, and trucks and tables offer a tempting array of delicious food prepared by loving hands. Farmers display homegrown food to take home for comforting fall meals. Local and regional musicians entertain you as you wander festival grounds, and games and other competitions invigorate and challenge you. These entertaining, engaging and enlightening events come off seamlessly, belying the yearlong planning, hard work and many hours that volunteers provide each year to produce our favorite fall festivals. Valle Country Fair and Woolly Worm Festival, both nearing their 50th anniversaries, embody the area’s autumn celebrations, thanks to the efforts of hundreds of volunteers who spend thousands of hours, and local organizations who provide funds to make these events possible. Both the Woolly Worm Festival and the Valle Country Fair operate as nonprofits, meaning every dollar left over after paying overhead (tents, insurance, permits, etc.) is directly distributed into the local community. Valle Country Fair | Valle Crucis, NC Valle Country Fair began as a small church bazaar at Holy Cross Episcopal Church to benefit the community. This year, the 48th Valle Crucis Fair will welcome more than 10,000 visitors on Saturday, October 17, and is expected to raise more than $80,000 for High Country charities. “For 47 years,” said Tracey Heiss, cochair of the Fair, “the Valle Country Fair has lived its mission of ‘neighbors helping

24 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Photo by Catherine Morton

Along with craft shopping, mountain music, country cooking, apple cider pressing and apple butter making, the Valle Country Fair offers games and activities especially for the children.

neighbors’ by supporting local nonprofit organizations and providing assistance to families facing hardships such as medical bills, heating costs and rent.” She noted that more than 200 volunteers work at the fair each year. “This is a full-parish, hands-on event by Holy Cross Episcopal Church and cosponsor Valle Crucis Conference Center,” added Julie Gates, the Fair’s other co-chair. “In addition, organizations like Boone Sunrise Rotary, Hunger and Health Coalition, Appalachian State University’s Beta Alpha Psi Epsilon accounting fraternity, Mountain Alliance, The Children’s Council, Boy Scout Troops 160 and 109, and the Valle Crucis School Parent Teacher Student Organization send people and energy to make this fair happen each year. “Many organizations and churches, like St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Boone and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Blowing Rock, are helping by advertising for volunteers,” Gates continued. “Our media sponsors, Curtis Media Group and Mountain Times Publications, Blue Ridge Energy, Freeman Gas and Norwood’s Commercial Appliances also provide priceless support.” The Watauga Arts Council and North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, also support the fair. One of the more popular food booths is the Sausage Factory. Volunteers, who are managed by Brenda Lowman and her family, serve delicious grilled kielbasa, bratwurst and portabella mushroom sandwiches made to order. “I started helping in the Sausage Factory when the fair was held at the Apple Barn [across the street from the current venue] in the early 1990s,” Lowman said. “Hosting has become a family tradition.

By Karen Rieley

Our volunteers in the booth have been with us for years!” Some might say that garbage removal is the epitome of behind-the-scenes, but it’s a vital part of executing a flawless event. For 30 years, until Debbie and Mike Galleher retired in 2025, the couple, with help from their children, managed garbage removal, and eventually the Barbecue and Brunswick Stew tent. Along the way, they recruited the Valle Crucis Scout Troop 160 and Troop 109 from Boone United Methodist Church to help them out. And this year, Holy Cross parishioner Patty Dilley takes over their roles at the Barbecue and Bruswick Stew tent. The Valle Country Fair, produced by Holy Cross Episcopal Church in cooperation with the Valle Crucis Conference Center, welcomes new volunteers and exhibitors every year! Find out more at vallecountryfair.org. Woolly Worm Festival | Banner Elk, NC The Woolly Worm Festival had an unassuming start with one fuzzy woolly worm placed on a blade of grass by a curious man with the propensity for big ideas. In 1973, Jim Morton learned about the local folklore regarding the woolly worm’s ability to forecast winter based on the segments of its body. (If the woolly worm has more brown on its body than black, it will be a fair winter. More black than brown means the winter will be harsh.) A few years later at a merchants’ association meeting, he proposed an event to bring attention to Banner Elk. Morton saw the potential of a festival to determine which woolly worm would be the one to forecast winter conditions. A Woolly Worm Festival Association was formed, and the first event

Racing Woolly Worms

Mr. Woolly Worm II, Adam Binder, with Mr. Woolly Worm I, Roy Krege

Festival Organizers and Volunteers pose with Maribel Murphy from Indiana and her winning woolly worm, Billy

VOLUNTEERS HELP MAKE THE VALLE COUNTRY FAIR AND WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL POSSIBLE. was held on the grounds of the Historic Banner Elk Elementary School, the same location where the 49th Annual Woolly Worm Festival will again be held this year, on October 17-18. From that first event with only three to four vendors, 300 to 400 visitors and 63 worms competing, to 50-plus vendors, more than 20,000 visitors and 1,000 caterpillars competing, the Woolly Worm Festival has increased in size and significance as a major fall event in the Southeast. Today, the festival is co-hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk and the Avery County Chamber of Commerce. “Last year, the festival raised $100,000, supporting youth organizations throughout Avery County through grants administered by the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk, as well as small business and tourism development initiatives through the Avery County Chamber of Commerce,” said Victoria Bowman, festival director and chair. “Approximately 150 volunteers are involved in virtually every aspect of the event—from setup and breakdown to welcoming visitors, supporting vendors, assisting with activities and entertainment, providing information, helping with logistics and stepping in wherever they are needed throughout the festival,” she added. “Collectively, our volunteers contribute about 500 hours of service. Those hours represent so much more than a number; they represent people giving their time, energy and enthusiasm because they believe in this festival and in what it brings to our community.” One volunteer stands out above all others in the history of the event: the original Mr. Woolly Worm, Roy Krege. He was the face and heart of the Woolly Worm

Festival for more than four decades—the 2025 Woolly Worm Festival was held in his memory. When Adam Binder moved to Banner Elk in 2009, he volunteered with the festival, eventually working alongside Mr. Woolly Worm to help promote the festival on TV around the region. “I dressed as Merryweather, the mascot, and assisted Roy any way I could,” Binder said. “Health issues eventually led to him stepping down, and I became Mr. Woolly Worm II. “When I started my own Mr. Woolly Worm outfit, I started with my hat, and the first thing I added to it was the phrase, ‘I want to be like Roy!’ on the back,” he shared. “It reminds me why I am there and what our purpose is. Roy gave selflessly, and I try to follow his lead.” Bowman credits community partnerships for the success of the festival, including the support of multiple units of the Civil Air Patrol, under the guidance and leadership of Jim Fitzpatrick, which help manage the many logistical and operational needs of the festival. The Banner Elk Police Department and many High Country first responders from surrounding communities, under the direction of Chief of Police Kevin Hodges, keep visitors, vendors, volunteers and residents safe. HD Stewart, the college’s assistant vice president of operations and risk management, helps tackle one of the festival’s biggest logistical challenges— parking for thousands of people. LeesMcRae College’s various athletics teams and campus organizations assist with parking to help raise funds for their programs. “We are also incredibly fortunate to have Talia Freeman, vice president of sales and marketing for Beech Mountain Resort, as such a dedicated partner,” Bowman said.

“Talia manages all race registration and organizes and leads the volunteer efforts.” Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a major educational and conservation partner for the festival, serving as the official “Worm Doctor” to help ensure the health and wellbeing of the woolly worms before, during and after the event. “We are particularly grateful for our partnership with the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. They provide funds that allow every student in the Avery County School District, and one accompanying adult, to receive free admission to the festival on Sunday,” Bowman said. “And as part of our partnership with Lees-McRae College, Avery County residents can enjoy free parking on Sunday, helping to remove another barrier for families and making the festival experience even more accessible.” Bowman summed up the real value of both fall events for the High Country by saying, “One of the most rewarding aspects of the festival is knowing that its impact extends far beyond the event itself. The generosity of our attendees, sponsors, vendors, volunteers and community partners allows us to reinvest in the people, businesses and organizations that make Avery [and Watauga counties] so special.” These volunteers and community partners exemplify a true commitment to their community and a giving-back attitude to help their fellow citizens. You can thank and honor them for their time and effort by attending and participating in the events. In return, you’ll enjoy the best in food, music, arts and crafts, and wholesome fun that fall in the High Country has to offer. Learn more at vallecountryfair.org and woollyworm.com. Woolly Worm photos: Avery County Chamber of Commerce. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

In addition to our area’s fabulous fall festivals, you and your family can experience a wealth of activities and events related to community, food, music, nature, agriculture, history, crafts, holiday fun, and so much more. Following, you’ll find a sampling of some of our readers’ favorite seasonal happenings, celebrations and destinations throughout the region. And be sure to check out our Cultural Calendar, Art Remarks, Trail Reports and Farmers’ Market Guide elsewhere in this issue.

Arthur Planetarium

Lees-McRae Homecoming Weekend

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL H Compiled by CML Staff

Lees-McRae Homecoming & Family Weekend This year, the entire community is invited to participate in the annual Homecoming and Family Weekend on the campus of Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk. Bobcat Fest—the main event—will take place on Saturday, September 26, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Fred I. Dickerson Athletic Complex. The Fest, sponsored by the Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority, will feature a Ferris wheel, live music, bounce houses, soccer games, tailgating, food trucks, local vendors, and more. “Find out what it means to be part of the ONE LeesMcRae community. . . and nonstop Bobcat Spirit!” For detailed information about the full Homecoming celebration, visit www. lmc.edu/about/one-lees-mcrae/hcfw.htm. Boone ComicCon Boone ComicCon 2026, North Carolina’s High Country celebration of comics, pop culture, toys, and gaming, takes place on September 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m in Boone, NC. Created by fans, for fans, the event will be held at the Watauga Community Recreation Center. Popular comic book artists, craft vendors, collectible dealers, and comic book shops from several states and around the region will attend the convention, and Dragon’s Den Games and Collectibles will host a gaming area. “Be sure to come dressed to impress in your favorite cosplay, show off your costumes on our Cosplay Stage, and check out our haunted photo area.” Food trucks will be onsite. Visit www. boonecon.com for more information.

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Mayland Earth to Sky Park The Mayland Earth to Sky Park is an environmental educational park offering unique opportunities to learn about the natural world, from the earth to the sky. In addition to exploring outdoor gardens and the visitor center, and stargazing from the observatory, visitors can enjoy a variety of shows at the Glenn and Carol Arthur Planetarium. In celebration of one of the greatest albums of all time, Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon, the Planetarium will share an “unforgettable audio-visual journey ... and cosmic celebration” of this famous album through early fall. The production features each of the album’s 10 classic tracks presented in order, accompanied by 360° visuals that surround you from every angle—some inspired by the band’s storied past, others imagining a bold new future. Another popular planetarium show, James Webb Space Telescope: The Story Unfolds, continues to draw crowds at Earth to Sky. Discover the furthermost reaches of the universe as revealed by the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful telescope ever built. Learn about these shows, and other fall programming, at mayland.edu/esp/ and on their Facebook page at facebook.com/EarthToSkyPark. Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes Take the opportunity to pick your own pumpkins and wander through mazes of corn stalks, hay bales and flower fields. Several options, open through October, include Ashe County Corn Maze in Jefferson, NC (ashecornmaze.com); Harvest

Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in Valle Crucis (harvestfarmwnc.com); New River Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in Deep Gap (newrivercornmaze.com); Lantern Farm in West Jefferson (lanternfarm.com); and C and J Farms Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze in Boone—check out their Haunted Maze on Friday and Saturday nights in October (On Facebook: search “c and j pumpkin patch”). Apple Orchards Apple lovers can head over to the Crossnore Heritage Orchard through October to taste a variety of old-time Appalachian Mountain apples. This community orchard serves as a “living library of heirloom apple varieties.” The orchard is open seven days a week, daylight to dark, at 114 Maple Street in Crossnore, NC (crossnoreheritageorchard. com). For an all-day apple experience that includes live traditional music, delicious lunch fare, shopping, educational exhibits, games, walking tours, “heyrides,” dancing, and plenty of apple picking, take a short trip over to the historic Orchard at Altapass near Spruce Pine. They’re open WednesdaySunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., through November 1 (altapassorchard.com). Also see “Through the Lens” on page 118. Center for Pioneer Life Tours The Center for Pioneer Life is located on twelve acres of beautiful farmland in the scenic Shoal Creek Valley of Yancey County, about three miles from downtown Burnsville, NC. Guided tours of this “living history farm” are available Fridays and Saturdays through October, with tour

Trick-or-Treat Mainstreet in Burnsville,

Spookley the Square Pumpkin at Apple Hill Farm

Banner Elk Trunk or Treat

photo courtesy Yancey County Chamber of Commerce

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS times scheduled between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Each guided tour features the 1840s Josiah and Frances Ray Young Cabin—an original historic home that offers a glimpse into daily life in early Appalachia. Explore the Settlement Cabin, a replica of the first cabin built by early pioneers upon arrival, along with the blacksmithing forge, springhouse, chicken coop, pig pen and farm animals. The farm also features an historic garden and working crop fields as part of the experience. pioneerlife.org Mountain City Fiddlers’ Convention This annual two-day event celebrating regional Appalachian music will take place on October 2–3 at the Heritage Hall Theatre in Mountain City, Tennessee. The Fiddlers’ Convention honors more than a century of Old-Time and Bluegrass traditions and brings together amateur and professional musicians from across the country—and around the world—for performances, competitions, and community celebration. Enjoy a special performance by the Lonesome River Band on Friday night! mountaincityfc.com Downtown Spooktacular From 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, head to downtown North Wilkesboro for an evening of Halloween fun for the whole family. Enjoy games, costumes, over 60 Candy stations, music and more. nwmerchants.com/spooktacular/ Seven Devils Trunk or Treat Come enjoy some fun and safe Trunk or

Treating on Thursday, October 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Seven Devils Community Center, 1356 Seven Devils Rd, Seven Devils, NC. The community will provide candy bags, fun giveaway items and candy. Bring children 18 and under for a spooky time! Visit sevendevilsnc.gov or call 828-963-5343 for updates. Beech Mountain “Halloween Jailbreak” Trail-or-Treat On Friday, October 30, 5-8 p.m., a chillingly fun Halloween night awaits at the Buckeye Recreation Center on Beech Mountain. Take a walk down the Haunted Trail and enter the Rec Center for ghoulish games and a variety of activities. Wander past creatively decorated stations for candy and surprises. Costumes are encouraged—this event is fun for the whole family! beechmtn.com/ event/haunted-trail-halloween-event/ Spookley’s Trick-or-Treat Tours at Apple Hill Farm Come dressed in your Halloween best and join Spookley the Square Pumpkin and the Apple Hill Farm animals for a storybook trail Trick-or-Treat Tour on October 31. During this educational and hands-on mini-tour, your Tour Ghoul will share fun facts about the animals—alpacas, llamas, goats and more—at each stop, and safely distribute goodies for each child. Together you’ll read the story of Spookley the Square Pumpkin and end the tour by taking the Bullying Prevention Pledge! Book your slot, available every half hour from 11 to 2:30 P.M., at applehillfarmnc.com.

Trick-or-Treat Mainstreet—Burnsville Get ready for a spooktacular evening of fun in downtown Burnsville, NC, on October 31, 4-6:30 p.m. Bring the whole family, show off your best costumes, and enjoy a safe and festive night on Main Street. Trick-or-treating will take place on the historic Burnsville Town Square with local merchants and community groups handing out candy around the square and downtown area. “Candy, costumes, games and fun for goblins and ghouls of all ages!” yanceychamber.com Banner Elk Trunk or Treat On October 31, 5-7 p.m., families can come dressed in costumes for a unique trick-ortreat experience from the trunks of cars and trucks. Local businesses and individuals decorate their vehicles and distribute tasty treats at the Historic Banner Elk School. Enjoy food trucks and lots of fun! Visit bannerelk.com/attractions/trunk-or-treat/ or call 828-898-5398. Boone BOO! Join the Town of Boone and downtown Boone merchants on October 31, 5-7:30 p.m., for this safe, family-friendly event! The central part of King Street will be closed (from Appalachian Street to Burrell Street) to allow for safe trick-or-treating along with the annual costume contest. A special Halloween music playlist keeps the tunes streaming, and larger-than-life inflatables line the sidewalks. Stop by the Watauga Library between 4-5 p.m. for Halloween Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Choose and Cut

West Jefferson Holiday Parade

Freedom Truck in Wilkesboro

Light Up Downtown North Wilkesboro

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL H crafts and goodies. Visit the Jones House for some additional silly and spooky fun; head down to Howard Street for coffee, popcorn, and treats at The Hope Center; and check out Boone First Baptist Church for their annual Trunk or Treat event. joneshouse.org/ booneboo *Many other festive and safe “Trick or Treat” events will be taking place in our High Country communities. For updated dates, times and locations, visit each venue’s website, and highcountryhost.com/nc-high-country-halloween-2026. “Freedom Truck” Arrives to Wilkesboro In recognition of our country’s 250th, a fleet of six mobile museums, known as “Freedom Trucks,” are traveling throughout 2026, bringing the story of American independence to students, families, and citizens in every corner of our country. With interactive and inspiring content for visitors of all ages, the exhibits tell the extraordinary story of how 13 colonies declared independence, defeated the greatest empire in the world and secured American sovereignty 250 years ago. On November 6-7, one of the six Freedom Truck museums will be parked on North Bridge Street next to the Wilkes Heritage Museum in Wilkesboro, NC. Bring the family between 12 and 5 p.m. on Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday to witness American History in person— General George & Mrs. Martha Washington will be on hand Saturday to give a talk, answer questions, and pose for photos with visitors. Food trucks and live music round out the event, and Veterans will be

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recognized at the Wilkes Heritage Museum. Presented and hosted by the Rendezvous Mountain Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), admission is free. wilkesboronc.org/newsfeed/freedomtruck-mobile-museum-in-wilkesboro Veterans Honored at the Hickory Ridge History Museum Hickory Ridge History Museum, located at Daniel Boone Park in Boone, NC, hosts this year’s special Veterans Day event on November 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The day honors the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans—past and present—with a reenactment of the historic December 1780 Change of Command Ceremony. Throughout the day, guests can explore a small Continental Army encampment, engage with ongoing living history demonstrations, and learn more about Revolutionary War genealogy and patriot heritage through booths hosted by the local chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution. This family-friendly, educational experience is designed to connect the public with military and civilian stories that shaped the founding of our country. Horninthewest.com Annual Veterans Day MOAA Ceremony In honor of Veterans Day, the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) will host its 20th annual Veterans’ Day Program on Wednesday, November 11, at the Boone Mall. The Watauga Community Band commences at 10:30 a.m. with the program starting at 11 a.m. Hundreds of members of

the High Country community pay tribute during this memorable event. MOAA is a non-profit veterans’ association dedicated to maintaining a strong national defense and to preserving the earned entitlements of members of the uniformed services and their families and survivors. The High Country Chapter of the MOAA serves Avery, Mitchell and Watauga counties, and has been awarded the MOAA 5-Star level of Excellence Chapter recognition. Visit hccmoaa.org for additional details. West Jefferson Holiday Parade This year’s annual Christmas parade in downtown West Jefferson kicks off the holiday season on Saturday, November 14, 2-4 p.m. This festive community event features local marching bands, dance troupes, fire trucks, police cars, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Later, watch the official lighting of the West Jefferson Christmas tree while enjoying live music and strolling the colorfully lit streets to shop your favorite stores and dine in downtown West Jefferson. ashechamber.com. Choose & Cut Tree Farms Beginning in mid-November, families will drive to the High Country to choose their favorite Fraser firs, white pines and other varieties of evergreens to decorate their homes for the holiday season. You’ll find dozens of tree farms in Avery, Watauga, Ashe, Alleghany, Burke, Mitchell and Yancey counties in NC, and bordering counties in TN and VA. Many of these farms offer hayrides, hot chocolate/hot

Artisan Holiday Market at Mustard Seed

A Small Town Christmas in Banner Elk, photo by Mark File

Christmas in Blowing Rock

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS cider, petting zoos, Christmas markets, wreath making opportunities, and visits with Santa. For more information, visit WataugaChristmasTrees.com and ncchristmastrees.com. Western Youth Network’s Annual Festival of Trees From November 18 through December 4, celebrate the season and support Western Youth Network (WYN), which serves children across the High Country with mentoring, afterschool and summer camp programs. During their annual fundraiser, you can view and bid on more than 100 decorated trees and wreaths displayed across the High Country. Designers decorate and place trees in select area businesses and retail locations throughout Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties. Last year’s Festival of Trees raised $100,000 to help expand afterschool and snow day care programs. Find more information and updates on the WYN Festival of Trees at facebook.com/fot.wyn/ and wynfestivaloftrees.com. Blowing Rock’s Christmas in the Park Blowing Rock’s Christmas in the Park & Lighting of the Town celebration is an annual holiday event at Memorial Park that’s fun for the whole family. “Join us for games, live music and caroling, and visits with Santa” throughout the day on Friday, November 27. On Saturday, November 28, arrive by 10 a.m. to witness the Blowing Rock Christmas Parade as decorated floats, animals and festive parade walkers head down Main Street. Additional

entertainment throughout the weekend includes music, games, crafts, hayrides, gingerbread house-building, hot chocolate and Santa sightings. Explore the town and do some Christmas shopping, too! blowingrock.com. Beech Mountain Holiday Market On Saturday, November 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., grab your Santa satchel and head over to the Fred & Margie Pfohl Buckeye Recreation Center for the annual Beech Mountain Holiday Market. Check out a variety of local arts and crafts to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Bring the kids and enjoy holiday-themed activities throughout the day, including Kids’ Crafts with Mrs. Claus and the Parade of Wreathes. For additional details, call 828-387-3003. parksrec.egov.basgov.com/ beechmountainnc Artisan Holiday Market at the Mustard Seed The Mustard Seed Market in Blowing Rock will present its 7th Annual Artisan Holiday Market on December 4 and 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Market will take place at their garden center location on Hwy 321-S. Over 40 local vendors and artisans showcase unique crafts, with products ranging from local artwork, ceramics, and clothing, to woodwork, candles, jewelry, and other crafts. The Mustard Seed Market will also have a full selection of holiday gifts and decor in their shop, along with Christmas trees, holiday wreaths, garlands, ornaments, and more.

Enjoy a “fun and easy shopping experience for unique gifts, stocking stuffers, and decorations to fit every home atmosphere while also supporting our local artists.” Bonfires and live music from local acoustic artists enhance the holiday shopping experience. “This year, the Artisan Market will also feature photo opportunities with our traditional Santa Claus from 12-2 p.m. at no charge!” facebook.com/ mustardseedmarketandhome Banner Elk’s “A Small Town Christmas” Mark your calendar for a full weekend of traditional holiday activities at this popular annual holiday event, sponsored by the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. “A Small Town Christmas” will take place at various locations in downtown Banner Elk the weekend of December 4-6, beginning Friday evening with the lighting of the town tree and a holiday play performed by Ensemble Stage Theatre at the Historic Banner Elk School. Saturday’s events include the YMCA Reindeer Run, breakfast with Santa, holiday fun at the Fire Station, ornament making, an arts and crafts market, cookie decorating, Christmas caroling with the choir, a Christmas Parade, train rides through the park, hot cocoa and so much more! All activities are within easy walking distance. On Sunday, visit one of many local choose & cut tree farms. bannerelk.org, bannerelk.com, ensemblestage.com

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Shopping, Dining Hiking, Canoeing Backstreet Concert Series Live Music, Murals, Frescoes Street Festivals, Christmas In July Farmers Market, Gallery Crawls Olde Time Antiques Fair

shop ...dine!

“The best shopping street in the High Country” visitwestjefferson.org

In Eastern America’s highest town you can go for a bike ride amongst the colorful Beech trees, claim the biggest catch, paddle the tranquil waters of Buckeye Lake or just sit back, relax and enjoy the magnificent views. beechmtn.com CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Bring a Book, Take a Book

at the Historic Banner Elk School We offer books to swap, magazines, WiFi, puzzles, book discussion groups, a writers’ group, music jams, and children’s programs throughout the year. Stop by and see us this season!

Open All Year Tuesday-Friday 10-4 Saturday 1-4 (May - October) Mention this ad in CML and take home a book or puzzle, no swap required!

For a full schedule of events, visit:

BannerElkBookExchange.com

If you have an idea for an article, let CML know 43RD ANNUAL MOUNTAIN GLORY FESTIVAL October 10, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Historic Main Street, Marion NC | www.mtngloryfestival.com

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Unique Accents for your Home & Patio, Mirrors Creative Wall Decor, Clocks, Lamps Accessories in all price ranges

828.295.3330 1151 Main Street Blowing Rock, NC

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134 Morris Street Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Full Interior Design Studio. With over 6,000 square feet, our showroom has the largest selection of furniture, home accessories, gifts, lamps, pillows, and more.

Open All Year Mon-Sat 10-5

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM! 5320 Hwy 105 South, Banner Elk, NC 828-963-6466 | www.tatumgalleries.com

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

CML Sixth Page Vertical Fall Holiday.pdf

8/18/26

10:29 AM

GABRIEL OFIESH OCTOBER 1, 2, 3 & 4

Thursday 1-5, Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-5, Sunday 1-4

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920 Shawneehaw Avenue | Banner Elk, NC 28604 H AR D I N J E WE L RY @ G MAI L.COM

828-898-4653

Battle of Kings Mountain, courtesy of the Library of Congress

Barter Theatre Brings Revolutionary History to Life An official VA250 Signature Event that highlights Southwest Virginia’s connection to a defining moment in America’s fight for independence

his fall, Barter Theatre in Abingdon, VA, invites audiences to experience one of the most pivotal, and often overlooked, moments in American history with the world premiere of Kings Mountain, an original play by Barter’s longtime Resident Playwright Catherine Bush. This production is a VA250 Signature Event in partnership with the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission and runs September 17 through October 31 at Barter’s Smith Theatre. More than a retelling of a historic battle, Kings Mountain is a world premiere theatrical event that examines the people, ideals, and sacrifices that helped shape the American Revolution. Through Barter’s Resident Acting Company, audiences will get a glimpse into the world of the Overmountain Men and the women who loved them, English kings and the soldiers who served them, and enslaved Americans who wondered what Liberty could possibly mean for them.

The story centers on the Battle of Kings Mountain, a conflict historians widely regard as one of the Revolutionary War’s defining turning points. While battles like Lexington, Concord, Valley Forge, and Yorktown are woven into the nation’s collective memory, Kings Mountain remains one of the Revolution’s most consequential victories, and one whose impact changed the course of the war. That history resonates deeply at Barter Theatre because it is not simply an American story, but an Appalachian one. Many of the Overmountain Men came from or traveled through communities that today make up a large portion of Southwest Virginia, and Abingdon itself served as one of the mustering places where Patriot militia gathered before joining the campaign to Kings Mountain. That legacy remains visible today, with the historic Muster Grounds preserved as a reminder of the region’s vital role in the fight for independence. Their

determination, resilience, and willingness to fight for their neighbors continue to reflect the values that define Appalachia today. As one of the nation’s longest-running professional theatres and a cultural institution rooted in Southwest Virginia, Barter has long been committed to telling stories that celebrate the region while connecting them to the broader American experience. Kings Mountain continues that tradition, using live theatre to transform a pivotal historical event into a deeply human story. The production also serves as a part of Virginia’s ongoing VA250 commemoration, which recognizes the Commonwealth’s central role in the founding of the United States. Through this partnership, Barter joins museums, historic sites, educators, and cultural organizations across Virginia in bringing Revolutionary history to life for a new generation. Visit bartertheatre.com for more information. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Turchin Center for the Visual Arts 6202 ,leehW giB ,zednanreF-sirraH lA

Free Admission • Changing Exhibitions Six Galleries • Contemporary Art

Robbie Bell

423 W King St | Boone, NC | TCVA.org

Mica Gallery

Fine Contemporary Craft 37 N. Mitchell Ave. Bakersville NC 28705 Open daily, Mon - Sat 11 - 5 & Sun 12 - 5 Tel: 828.688.6422 | micagallerync.com Follow us:

36 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Mattea at Mountain Stage

Appalachian Arts presents MOMIX: Botanica

AS THE WEATHER OUTSIDE GETS CHILLY, THAW OUT WITH WARM ENTERTAINMENT IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

Cultural Calendar from Now Through the Holidays By CML Staff

APPALACHIAN ARTS, presented by Appalachian State University, features world-class performances to both enhance the quality of life in our region and to support the University’s teaching mission. They offer a diverse array of programing throughout the 2026/2027 season, including a special fall performance on October 16. Be a part of the live radio audience as Mountain Stage, one of the most beloved programs in public radio, records an episode for NPR Music with Grammy Award-winning host Kathy Mattea. The show will be recorded live at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts and will feature guest artists Sarah Jarosz, Jill Andrews, Missy Raines & Allegheny, and more! Each two-hour episode is recorded in front of a live audience and can be heard every week on over 200 stations across America, and around the world via NPR Music and mountainstage.org. On November 12, embark on a dreamlike journey through nature’s changing imagery in a visually stunning experience inspired by the changing seasons and the rhythms of a single day with MOMIX: Botanica. Set to an eclectic soundtrack featuring everything from birdsong to Vivaldi, the piece blends athletic movement with

larger-than-life spectacle. MOMIX is an internationally renowned dance and visual illusion company, presenting work of exceptional inventiveness and physical beauty through its distinctive blend of movement, illusion, athleticism, and visual poetry. The company has appeared in large-scale global events, including the 2014 Sochi Olympic Closing Ceremony. schaefercenter.appstate.edu/appalachian-arts. The APPlause! K-12 SERIES at App State offers affordable music, dance, film, and theatre events to students and their teachers from K-12 classrooms across the region. Now in its 14th season, APPlause! presents engaging weekday morning performances— including student matinees of three Appalachian Arts evening productions. Students experience everything from high-energy acrobatics and Appalachian music to international dance and literary classics brought to life through theatrical productions. In recent seasons, more than 8,000 students across our region have attended APPlause! events. Low ticket prices are made possible by generous donors who believe in supplying educators with arts programming that will spark creativity and inspire a love of learning. This fall’s events consist of a music celebration with Dan + Claudia Zanes with Tyree Austin on October 15, world-renowned ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro on November 4, and MOMIX: Botanica on November 12. All performances in this series begin at 10 a.m. schaefercenter.appstate.edu/applause The mission of the APPALACHIAN STATE DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE AND DANCE is to facilitate transformative experiences for students and the public, which cultivate compassionate, creative and collaborative communities through theatre and dance. This fall, several performances support this mission beginning with FLIGHT: A First Year Performance on September 24-27 at IG Greer Studio Theatre. This short, immersive, welcoming process has incoming first year and transfer students working with upperlevel students and faculty mentors to create a collaborative performance. The Departments’ performance of Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, runs from October 28-November 6, also in the IG Greer Theatre. Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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As autumn arrives, outside the skies get bluer, the temperature gets crisper, and the leaves put on an astonishing show of color. It’s a good time to take a hike through the woods or sit by a roaring fire-pit with a warm beverage. It is also a great time to head inside one of the region’s many venues for a thrilling, comedic, heartwarming, or inspiring performance. Fortunately, the High Country has both vital community and professional companies, as well as nationally recognized academic institutions such as Appalachian State University and Lees-McRae College, all hosting and producing exceptional entertainment. In addition to the many musical and theatrical performances this fall, usher in the holidays with the area’s special Christmas programs. The following is an alphabetical overview of local venues listing the performing arts offerings on the schedule in the coming months, including the holiday season. Please remember that like the mercurial fall weather, all performances, dates, and times are subject to change. Therefore, you are strongly encouraged to contact the box office for the most current information.

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Antlers and Acorns Festival

Met Opera Live in HD MacBeth at Appalachian Theatre

Over in the Valborg Theatre, The Real Inspector Hound, a hilarious whodunit spoof of Agatha Christie-esque melodramas, runs from October 14-18. Concluding the fall season is the Fall Appalachian Dance Ensemble (FADE), a popular semi-annual concert featuring Appalachian faculty and students. Running from November 18-22, this edition of FADE showcases their talents and choreography with new works created for each program, including up to eight different pieces performed every night. More details at TheatreAndDance.AppState.edu. The APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY (ATHC), an independent, non-profit organization, is a hub for entertainment in Downtown Boone and the High Country. The theatre hosts a variety of events including live concerts, films, theatre, dance, educational and community productions. The fall season arrives with “Geese in Flight and Dogs that Bite,” as the third year of the Antlers & Acorns: Boone Songwriters Festival begins. Songs & Stories sets the stage on September 24, with the weaving of story into song, song into story. Later that evening, two singer/ songwriters take the stage with their inspirational sounds. Lera Lynn is a multi-instrumentalist blurring the boundaries between genres, while Jess Klein pulls firebrand power and childlike joy through her acoustic-driven songs. On September 25-26, the festival continues with performances on Friday by John Moreland and Laurel Lewis. Returning from hiatus after a whirlwind decade of success, Moreland is reclaiming his place in the upper echelon of modern Americana singersongwriters. Lewis takes to the Appalachian Theatre stage as a recording artist equipped with word, music and hard-won soul, who has worked with world-renowned musicians and played in historic venues. The Antlers and Acorns Festival performances conclude Saturday evening with James McMurtry, recently named one of the Best 100 Living Songwriters, and his band. Attendees will also be treated to the vocal prowess of BettySoo, a voice that knows the roots of American music inside and out. October blows in with classically arranged comedy as the MET OPERA LIVE IN HD series brings opera to movie theaters around the globe, including ATHC. A live screening of Così Fan Tutte begins the season on October 3, with gorgeous melody and hilarious hijinks as Mozart’s satirical comedy of fickle young love set at a boardwalk amusement park comes to the screen. Another Metropolitan Opera production streaming this fall is Macbeth, the immortal Shakespearean tale of the scheming couple determined to seize power at any cost, with an encore on October 21. Visit apptheatre. org/the-met-live-in-hd for more information.

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Carolina Snowbelles

The ATHC will host a special that is “more than a concert, it is a cultural experience” on October 4 with the Appalachian Road Show, plus the 2026 National Fiddler Hall of Fame Induction. Appalachian Road Show’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the culture, stories and spirit of Appalachia will be on display as this band of elite musicians, with powerful songwriting, soaring harmonies and deeply rooted storytelling showcase their talents. The National Fiddler Hall of Fame honors individuals for their contributions to fiddling, and works to preserve, educate and promote the art of fiddling and its historical and social significance. The following week, on October 11, the High Country Jazz Society hosts an evening of Big Band repertoire, from classic to contemporary as the Appalachian State University Jazz Ensemble I takes the stage. Wrapping up the October lineup, the Steep Canyon Rangers bring their Next Act to the ATHC on October 24. Their 15th studio album represents the return to the bluegrass foundations that first bound the band together. The November line up brings two energetic performances beginning with Jake Shimabukuro on November 3. The worldrenowned ukulele virtuoso has been hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele.” Next, the Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra, founded and based in Oslo, Norway, delivers passionate music deeply rooted in both Norwegian and American Traditions on November 15. As the holiday season arrives, so do some exciting Christmas performances. On December 2, the Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Christmas show will play your favorite Christmas songs in their refreshing acoustic style. From Friday, December 4 through Sunday, December 6, A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas returns to the ATHC. This 90-minute holiday production has become a tradition for many High Country families. With multiple performances throughout the weekend, this heartwarming showcase of precision dance, live singing, and dazzling costumes celebrates the joy, wonder, and spirit of the Christmas season through world class entertainment. It would not be Christmas at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country without A Christmas Carol by Candlelight. This immersive performance is a special rendition of Dickens’ most beloved holiday ghost story presented by the Appalachian Players. Caroling begins 30 minutes prior to the performances which run December 17-23. For more information and a complete schedule, go to AppTheatre.org. The ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL has two facilities in West Jefferson. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) building downtown houses the offices for the Arts Council, the Gallery, and Gallery Shop, while the Ashe Civic Center, a 282-seat theatre space,

at Ashe Civic Center

The ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE aims to provide opportunities for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy the performing arts. This holiday season, local actors, directors and other artists engage with the community in a heartwarming and hilarious holiday adventure bringing the magic of the North Pole to life in Elf the Musical. Running from December 3-6, Elf the Musical is a celebration of kindness, holiday spirit and the importance of believing in the impossible. Ashecountylittletheatre.org The BARTER THEATRE, the “State Theatre of Virginia” located in Abingdon, VA, consists of two stages. The Historic Gilliam Stage is a proscenium style with orchestra and balcony seating to accommodate up to 511 patrons. Big musicals and more traditional works are typically produced in this space. Barter’s Smith Theatre, across Main Street from the Gilliam Stage, brings the action up. This intimate space features a ground level stage with three-quarter stadium-style seating for 167 patrons. In some seats patrons are only a few feet away from the performers, making it a perfect venue for innovative new productions, thrillers, and comedies. This fall, both stages are abuzz with multiple productions. Through November 1, Come From Away takes the Gilliam Stage, set when the world stopped on 9/11. This big-hearted musical is based on the true story when thirty-eight commercial flights from around the globe were diverted to tiny Gander, Newfoundland. Kindness soars in this isolated Canadian town as residents provide light in a dark time, welcoming nearly 7,000 stranded travelers with music, open doors and hope. In contrast, Dracula swoops in to share the Gilliam Stage this autumn, in time for the Halloween season. Kate Hamill’s imaginative adaptation reinvents the story as

a smart, darkly comic drama. Sink your teeth into this production through October 31. The Gilliam Stage is wrapped up for the holidays when the Barter Players introduce the Christmas production, Here Comes Suzy Snowflake, appearing November 24-December 24. As the story unfolds, this brand new musical tale of an unlikely friendship will set your heart aglow. Of all the residents in Wintertown, no one looks forward to the first Christmas snow more than seven-year-old Maggie Rose Tuggle. The first snow means that her best friend, a snowflake named Suzy, will be coming to play all Christmas long. Then tragedy strikes when Maggie Rose’s parents decide to spend the holiday season in sunny Florida. Will Maggie Rose and Suzy survive being apart during the most wonderful time of the year? Meanwhile across the street in the Smith Theatre, autumn features include Kings Mountain, a new play by Catherine Bush. Commissioned by VA250, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. See more about this theatrical tour-de-force elsewhere in this CML issue. Another Catherine Bush production graces the Smith Theatre stage this holiday as Wooden Snowflakes fall November 22-December 27. Certain events have left their mark on Eve Lawson. She has renounced her faith in love and anything to do with America’s favorite winter holiday. Then, on Christmas eve, Eve’s car slides off an icy Kentucky road and she finds herself seeking shelter at the home of Simon Peter Whitaker, a woodcarver who wholeheartedly embraces the magic of the season. As the night unfolds, Simon and Eve, believer and skeptic, find themselves clashing time and time again as long-suppressed old wounds struggle to the surface, only to be healed by the Love that is Christmas. Two additional productions take to the Barter Theatre stages this fall with another Barter Players production of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer September 22- November 6. Additionally, Elf the Musical runs from November 14-December 27. For a complete schedule, please visit BarterTheatre.com. The BEANSTALK COMMUNITY THEATRE is holding auditions in early fall for their production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, with performances December 17-19 at the Appalachian Theatre. This hilarious Christmas classic, adapted from the best-selling Young Adult book, has become a holiday staple for groups across the country featuring great roles for children and adults along with a few favorite Christmas Carols and lots of laughs. For information, visit BeanStalkNC.com, and for tickets go to AppTheatre.org. Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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features a variety of performing arts and also serves as the home of the Ashe County Little Theatre. These two facilities offer numerous options for arts programming. This season, the lineup at Ashe Civic Center includes Cirque Us presenting Stories on September 22, featuring aerialists, jugglers, acrobats, contortionists, clowns and more as they “flip through the pages of the troupe’s favorite stories.” On October 16, the Jeff Little Trio takes the stage delivering high-energy music, mixing Appalachian traditions with an innovative edge. On November 6, Grammy Award-winning artist Ralph Stanley II and The Clinch Mountain Boys stop in the High Country on their cross-country tour. They bring abundant talent, energy and humor to the stage as they perform old-time favorites, bluegrass hits, and new original material. For more info visit ashecountyarts.org.

Dracula at Barter Theatre

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Matt Stone and Travis Powell as Elvis in Person at CoMMA

Between the music, musicals, comedies, dramas and Christmas productions, you are sure to find something you will love at the CoMMA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER. Starting October 3, The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra brings to CoMMA the heart and soul of the Crescent City. Spirit of New Orleans is an electrifying evening of music celebrating one of America’s most iconic cultural hubs. Blending the swinging sound of big band with the grooves of funk and blues—and the unmistakable spirit of Mardi Gras—this high-energy show brings New Orleans straight to Morganton! From October 22-25, Derek Long, LLC presents The Woman in Black, a perfect production for Halloween. Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story comes dramatically alive in Stephen Mallatrat’s ingenious stage adaptation. One of the most successful and longest running plays in the history of London’s West End, The Woman in Black is a study in atmosphere, illusion, and controlled horror. It continues to delight and terrify audiences. The scary elements of this production are not intended for younger audiences. Emmy and SAG-nominated actor, comedian, and author Kevin Nealon takes the CoMMA stage on October 29. Best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, he has received critical acclaim for his role in the Showtime series Weeds. His extensive film career includes projects such as Anger Management, Eight Crazy Nights, The Wedding Singer, Happy Gilmore, Just Go With It, You Don’t Mess with the Zohan, Joe Dirt, Daddy Day Care, Roxanne, and Grandma’s Boy. CoMMA’s November lineup includes music from the Norwegian Bluegrass group Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra, a seven-piece acoustic band that has captured hearts in both Norway and the US with its unique blend of bluegrass and Nordic folk, often dubbed “Nordicana,” on November 5. A few days later on November 7, JEKI Yoo appears with his unique style of close-up magic. Over 13 million people watched JEKI on America’s Got Talent as he performed his special magic, and now he’s bringing his talent to our region. With Veterans Day approaching, Task Force Pineapple Productions presents 11 Days: The Story of Operation Pineapple Express on November 10. Told by the veterans, allies, and family members who lived it, 11 Days chronicles the moral reckoning, urgency, and human cost behind Operation Pineapple Express, an ad hoc network that worked against the clock to evacuate Afghan allies left behind. Through raw storytelling and lived experience, the performance invites audiences to confront what happens when war ends on paper, but not in reality. “This is not a political statement. It is a human one.” November concludes with Matt Stone & Travis Powell as ELVIS In Person before shifting to holiday programming. On November

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11 Days at CoMMA

14, Matt Stone, internationally recognized by Graceland and the Elvis Presley Estate as the “closest thing to the King in history,” performs along with Travis Powell, one of the most sought-after tribute artists on the market having the honor of performing on Elvis Presley’s own stage in Las Vegas at the International Hotel. Next, CoMMA will deck the halls with a trio of Christmas performances. The holiday magic begins with the World Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker, featuring a live orchestra, 40 world-class dancers, over 150 sparkling hand-sewn costumes, and lavish handcrafted sets. It is a breathtaking holiday spectacle for all ages. Create unforgettable holiday memories and share the wonder of this timeless classic with the whole family on Wednesday, November 18. As the weather gets cooler, the Western Piedmont Symphony’s Holiday Spectacular will warm things up on December 16 with a night of seasonal wonder and festive music. Led by Maestro Matthew Troy and featuring Matt Sickles on electric guitar, the annual concert will bring together families, friends and the community. And for a special gift to close out the holiday performances, The Barter Players will bring Frosty the snowman to life on December 19 with Frosty: A Musical Adventure. Join the talented Barter Players in Morganton for a thrilling quest through New York City as they, with Frosty’s help, try to find Billy’s real family in time for Christmas. For times/details visit morgantonnc.gov/comma. With their 99-seat stage located in the Historic Banner Elk School, ENSEMBLE STAGE brings two fall productions to the High Country. Start Halloween early with episode 26 of The Hitchcock Radio Hour on October 23–24. Be a part of the “studio audience” and experience the spookiness of these Hitchcockian stories along with their sound effects and suspenseful musical underscoring—all being performed live onstage, just like they were in their original 1949 radio broadcast. And don’t miss out on A Banner Elk Christmas from December 4-19. This fast-paced homage to the television holiday musical variety shows of the ‘60s and ‘70s has become a must-see in the NC High Country. For more information, visit EnsembleStage.com. Located in Mountain City, TN, HERITAGE HALL THEATRE’s dedication to the arts is unwavering. By attending an event at Heritage Hall, you’re not just enjoying a night out and live entertainment; you’re supporting the vibrant cultural landscape of Johnson County. Upcoming productions at Heritage Hall include an evening with The WannaBeatles on September 26, a different kind of Beatles experience that combines popular Beatles classics with hilarious antics. The WannaBeatles like to say that they go “where no Beatles

Ensemble Stage Christmas Show in Banner Elk, Photo by Mark File

The PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT at LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE, housed in the School of Arts, Humanities, and Education, has scheduled two Theatre Arts productions on campus this fall. The Arkansaw Bear, based on the book by American playwright Aurand Harris, will run September 30-October 4, and Antigone, an adaptation of the ancient Greek tragedy, runs November 11-15. Both performances take place in Hayes Auditorium on the College’s campus in Banner Elk, NC. To find out more information check out lmc.edu/academics/programs/theatre-arts/. Burnsville, in nearby Yancey County, is home to the 80-year-old PARKWAY PLAYHOUSE, proudly the oldest continually operating summer theatre in North Carolina. Fortunately, they also offer fall productions! On November 6-14, enjoy an enchanting show, Into the Woods JR., presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). This lively musical follows a Baker and his wife, Cinderella, and Jack (and the Beanstalk) as they journey into the woods to break a witch’s curse, learning that wishes come with consequences and responsibilities. Nearby at the Burnsville Town Center on December 17-18, get into the holiday spirit with another musical, Elf JR., also produced

through a special arrangement with MTI. Based on the film, the play follows Buddy, a young orphan, who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list and that his halfbrother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. For times and more information, ParkwayPlayhouse. com. Just down the mountain, the JOHN A. WALKER COMMUNITY CENTER is proud to be the premier venue for cultural experiences in Wilkes County and surrounding areas. This fall brings several entertaining events to the Center. First up on September 25, three “wicked” voices unite for GRAVITY, inspired by the musical Wicked. Elizabeth Futter, Emma Hatton, and Nikki Bentley have each soared to extraordinary heights on the West End and Broadway stages, captivating audiences with their powerhouse vocals. Now, for one exclusive performance at the Walker Center, these musical theatre icons unite for a spectacular celebration of the roles that defined them, the songs that shaped them, and the journey that made them stars. Also this fall, enjoy Roots Run Deep: An Evening with Presley Barker. Wilkes County native Presley Barker is a singer/songwriter and guitarist on a mission to “bring real country music back.” Growing up with a deep appreciation for the outdoors and working on his family’s cattle farm, Barker knows the meaning of hard work, dedication, and what the country lifestyle is all about. His journey as an artist has led him to many achievements, including performances on national television shows such as The Today Show. Appearing at the Walker Center on October 10 with his blend of traditional sounds and a fresh spin, Presley Barker is making his mark while staying true to the roots of country music. Next, put on your cowboy boots, grab some fringe, and get in the Halloween spirit with a Murder Mystery Dinner. Country Music and Car Racing are as American as, well, apple pie. One can never tell what will happen when boot scooters and speed demons meet. “Race with the Stars” has brought together singing stars and a racing phenomenon. The singers travel as part of a bus tour to advance their careers. Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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band has gone before.” These talented musicians thoroughly enjoy what they do, and you will too. Next, spend the evening of October 2 and the afternoon of October 3 at the Annual Mountain City Fiddlers Convention, a showcase of the musical heritage and talent of the region. On October 16-18 and 23-24, JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY THEATRE presents Once Upon a Mattress, a musical comedy based on the fairy tale of the Princess and the Pea. See what happens when Queen Aggravain rules that no one in the kingdom can marry until Prince Dauntless weds. The laughs continue on November 7, as Matt Fore takes the stage with his technique of hysterical one-liners and surprisingly impossible feats of magic. The magic of the holiday season arrives with the Barter Players on November 10 as they bring their traveling production of Frosty to Heritage Hall Theatre. Then on November 21, Grammy nominated singer Rowdy McCarran appears in Amarillo by Morning – The George Strait Tribute, performing hits like All My Exes, Check Yes or No, and of course Amarillo by Morning, plus more of the timeless music of this country legend. The Christmas spirit returns as the Johnson County High School Players present It’s A Wonderful Life December 3-6. The play is adapted for the stage by James W. Rogers and is based on the popular holiday film. Visit heritagehalltheatre. org for more details.

Host Kathy Mattea of Mountain Stage, Photo by Christopher Morris

Appalachian Road Show at Appalachian Theatre

Drumming up excitement for the upcoming race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, a psychic and fortuneteller is along for the ride giving advice and warnings, as is a local waitress wanting to get a glimpse of the big hair, sequins and fringe. It has been said that road trips can be murder, and on October 30, that could be true. In the event of an untimely death, it will be up to attendees and fellow sleuths to discover who could commit such a crime. On November 21, bring the family to the Center for a showing of the holiday classic, Polar Express. Before the movie begins at 4 p.m., youngsters can participate in a variety of children’s activities, beginning at 2 p.m. In December, spend Christmas with the King of Rock and Roll as Travis Ledoyt, a singer, songwriter, pianist and performer, pays tribute to Elvis Presley. His ability to capture the magic of the “King

of Rock and Roll” in his prime has captivated fans around the world. In fact, D.J. Fontana, Elvis’ drummer said, “This is as close as you’re going to get to seeing Elvis in the ‘50s.” This nostalgic performance takes place on December 17. walkercenteronline.org Also staged in Wilkes County, the WILKES PLAYMAKERS are performing a true classic this season when the Wizard of Oz comes to the Benton Hall Community Arts Center in North Wilkesboro. Join Dorothy, Toto, and a colorful cast of friends as they journey through sparkling Emerald City, brave the Wicked Witch’s tricks, and discover that courage, heart, and brains are the greatest treasures of all. Dates include November 27-29 and December 4-6. A dazzling family-friendly adventure filled with music, magic, and a reminder that there’s truly no place like home. wilkesplaymakers.com

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“Here Rests In Honored Glory” A Magnificent Musical Tribute to the Fallen By Steve York Mary and Don Miller

t sent chills, touched hearts, uplifted spirits, and filled a gap in the previous repertoire of anthems dedicated to American soldiers who have lost their lives in service to their country. And, for those in the audience at the center court of the Boone Mall on November 12, 2018, the Watauga Community Band and supporting choral group’s performance of “Here Rests In Honored Glory” was reverently embraced as both heart-stirring and majestic. The event marked the joint Veterans Day/Armistice Centennial Commemoration with the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Just one day prior, during their 2018 legislative session, both the New York State Assembly and Senate approved designating this musical composition as the Official State Hymn of Remembrance in Honor of All American Veterans. This marked another fitting tribute to the 100th anniversary of the Armistice and the official end of World War I fighting on November 11, 1918. As such, it has been but one of several official recognitions which have taken place over the years in praise of “Here Rests In Honored Glory” as a unique musical tribute to fallen American soldiers. And it all began with a young man named Don Miller from southwestern Ohio who had lamented for some time about NOT being drafted to serve in the Vietnam War. He was of draft age when America’s entry into the war became official. So, he fully expected to be drafted and was prepared to serve his country. But he never got the call. “I felt guilty. I wanted to make some sort of contribution because I wasn’t called,” said Miller. He did, indeed, make a contribution. And it was in the form of this musical tribute which he eventually composed in 1986. Based on the inscription from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Miller’s composition uses

two distinct tunes, “All Glory Laud and Honor” along with “Hail to the Lord’s Anointed” as a tribute to multiple religions. “The Unknown Soldier is representative of all religions or persons of no religious belief,” Miller explained. “An unknown soldier can be a non-believer, a Muslim or whichever religion he or she observes.” As a music professor at New York’s Onondaga Community College, Miller was especially qualified to create his musical tribute. He had earned multiple degrees and gained his professorship in 1971, and began his 30-year career teaching Chorus, Music History, Music Appreciation, and Classical and Jazz Guitar to his students. Yet, despite all his professional achievements, his feeling of guilt about not serving during the Vietnam era stayed with him. In 1986, some two decades after not being drafted, Miller created his own way of contributing and entitled it “Here Rests In Honored Glory.” In the time since Miller composed the song, it has gained prominence in and around the military community. It was adopted as the Official Hymn of Mourning by two organizations: the Paralyzed Veterans of America and Vietnam Veterans of America. And all of Miller’s composer royalties were split evenly between the two organizations. In 2006 the piece was recorded by the North Carolina Master Chorale in Raleigh as a CD with all proceeds from CD sales going to raise money for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), a national non-profit organization made up of, and providing services for all those who have lost a loved one on active duty with the Armed Forces. In 2009 Miller’s composition won the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. And, at the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy in France, the CD has been played each June 6 in commemoration of D-Day, which

marked the beginning of the end of World War II in Europe. Miller was awarded a D-Day Medal from the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy; yet, he has chosen to never profit from the song. Additionally, as of this writing, bipartisan bill H.R.6188 is currently before the United States House of Representatives Committee on the Judiciary to designate “Here Rests In Honored Glory” as the National Hymn of Remembrance of the United States. Most rewarding for Miller and his wife, Mary, are the stories they have heard from those impacted by the song. “Through TAPS we got to know a lot of families. One of our friends lost their son several years ago. They listen to the song regularly and it brings them relief,” said Mary. “We know a family that plays the song at the grave of their loved one in Arlington,” added Don. “It comforts them. It’s how they celebrate.” Don and Mary Miller have had their primary home in Blowing Rock for the past eight years and retain a cottage in upstate New York where they spend August through October each year. As Mary Miller noted, “Don’s professional life having been in music along with the strong ASU music department is a marriage made in heaven! To retire to a region so rich in artistic performance is a real blessing!” By the way, Don Miller and his exceptional musical talents are periodically featured on Thursday nights at Casa Rustica restaurant in Boone. And you can get your own copy of the North Carolina Master Chorale CD by emailing Don at donmillermusic@gmail.com. Sheet Music Photo credits: Here Rests In Honored Glory is published by Mark Foster Music, a division of Shawnee Press, Inc., and exclusively distributed by Hal Leonard Corporation.

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Appalachian Theatre

Where the Music is . . .

By CML Staff

Music is made in our area all year long by skilled and talented musicians. This autumn, they’re pickin’ and jamming on the stages, in the meadows and on front porches. Here are some of our favorite places…

Linville Falls Winery – Located near Linville Falls and the spectacular Linville Gorge, the steepest gorge east of the Mississippi River, Linville Falls Winery hosts music every Thursday through Sunday in September, and Wednesday through Sunday until the end of October from 2-5 p.m. | 9557 Linville Falls Hwy (Hwy 221) Linville Falls, Blue Ridge Parkway Mile 317, 828-765-1400, linvillefallswinery.com Banner Elk Winery – The High Country’s original winery is just minutes from downtown Banner Elk and hosts music Friday through Sunday 1-5 p.m. until the end of October. | 60 Deer Run Lane, Banner Elk, 828-898-9090, bannerelkwinery. com Grandfather Vineyard and Winery – Music in the vineyard hosts a season full of live music. Enjoy music and food trucks Wednesday through Saturday starting at 2 p.m., and Sunday afternoons starting at 1 p.m. through September. In October, there will be music and food trucks daily, and in November, music is available on Saturday and Sunday only. | 225 Vineyard Lane, off NC 105 between Boone and Banner Elk, 828-963-2400, grandfathervineyard.com Villa Nove Vineyard – Nestled in the Appalachian High Country with vineyardlaced hills giving way to breathtaking

360-degree views. Live music on most Saturdays starting at 5 p.m., but check their Facebook page for updates. | 1877 Dry Hill Rd, Butler, TN, 423-768-0345, waterfrontgroupwatauga.com/villa-novevineyard/, Facebook @ VillaNoveVineyards/

Chef’s Table – Live Wednesday night jazz with Shane Chalke at 7 p.m. Additional live music on Friday and Saturday nights starting at 7 p.m. and karaoke at 10 p.m. | 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, 828-8985214, bannerelkvillage.com

Old Barn Winery – Enjoy live music at this family-owned winery located in the beautiful mountains of West Jefferson, NC, Fridays 3-6 p.m., Saturdays 1-7 p.m. (usually two bands), and Sundays 2-5 p.m. | 2152 Beaver Creek School Rd, West Jefferson, 336-846-6060, oldbarnwinery. com

Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria – Live music with family friendly pianist Andrew Cotts, Thursdays and Sundays 5:30-9 p.m. | 402 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, 828-387-4000, famousbrickoven.com

n AT RESTAURANTS AND BARS Old Hampton Barbecue and The Tavern at the Old Hampton Store – Live outdoor music on Thursdays and Saturdays from 6-9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 12-3 p.m. through October. Go to Old Hampton Store Facebook page for the latest updates, additions, and changes. | 77 Ruffin Street, Linville, 828733-5213, Facebook @ OldHamptonStore/ Banner Elk Café – Live bands on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year, 5:309:30 p.m. | 324 Shawneehaw Ave. S, Banner Elk, 828-898-4040, bannerelkcafe.com Lost Province Brewery – Live music every Friday and Saturday evening starting at 6 p.m. | 130 N. Depot Street, Boone, 828-265-3506, lostprovince.com

Casa Rustica – Live music on Thursday evenings with Todd Wright and Andy Page | 1348 Hwy. 150 South, Boone, 828262-5128, casarustica1981.com Blowing Rock Brewing – Enjoy great food and beer with live music on Sundays from 2-5 p.m. through October | 152 Sunset Dr, Blowing Rock, 828-414-9600, Facebook @ BRBrewingCo/ Blind Elk Tap Room – Live music and food trucks on various nights and trivia on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. There’s a lot to choose from for your entertainment pleasure. Please check their Facebook page for up-to-date information. | 397 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk, 828-8982420, Facebook @ BlindElk/

Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

MUSIC

n AT WINERIES AND VINEYARDS

Banner Elk Cafe

The Pineola

MUSIC

Mountain Glory Festival

The Beacon – Live music on Tuesday and Thursday from 6-8 p.m. and live jazz jams on select nights. The Beacon is located next to the iconic Water Wheel. | 125 Graduate Lane, Boone, 828-865-0087, boonebeacon.com n AT INNS AND RESORTS Music on the Lawn at The Inn at Ragged Gardens – Friday evenings through October 6, 5:30-8:30 p.m., weather permitting. Bring your own seating; outdoor bar and lawn menu available. Sorry, no coolers, pets, or outside food or beverages. | 203 Sunset Dr., Blowing Rock, 828-2959703, ragged-gardens.com The Pineola Live Music Weekends – Live music Friday and Saturday nights starting at 6:30 p.m. and Bluegrass Sundays at 1p.m. | 3085 Linville Falls Hwy., Pineola, 828-733-4979, thepineola.com n AT FESTIVALS Art on the Mountain – Fine art and crafts and live music Saturday, September 26, 10-4 p.m. in downtown West Jefferson Ashe Arts Center Grounds | 303 School Ave., West Jefferson, 336-846-2787, ashecountyarts.org/art-mountain Mountain Glory Festival – Visitors will find original crafts, food, local wine, and beer, plus two stages presenting Marion’s finest musicians. Free admission. October

48 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

10, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Main Street, Marion, NC, 828-652-2215, mtngloryfestival.com Mountain City Fiddlers’ Convention – The 101st Anniversary of the Mountain City Fiddlers’ Convention is a free event and will be held on October 2 from 5-10 p.m. and October 3 from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. at the Heritage Hall Theatre, 211 N Church St. in Mountain City, TN, 423-430-0792, mountaincityfc.com Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest – Sugar Mountain’s annual Oktoberfest invites you to bring your lederhosen or dirndl and have fun! Parking, shuttle service, and admission are free for this two-day event. The Harbour Towne Fest Band will provide entertainment, food and crafts will be available for purchase, as well as traditional Spaten beer. October 10 and 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Sugar Mountain Resort, 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr., Sugar Mountain, 828-898-4521, oktoberfest. skisugar.com Valle Country Fair – The annual Valle Country Fair is a sure favorite among locals and visitors. Crafts, food, and toe tapping music, traditional dancing, and classic tales by a master storyteller. Admission is free, and parking costs $10 per car, $25 for a small bus or van, and $50 for a motor coach. Across from Holy Cross Episcopal Church. Saturday, October 17, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | 122 Skiles Way, Valle Crucis, 828-963-4609, vallecountryfair.org

Woolly Worm Festival – The quirky and light-hearted Woolly Worm Festival is an event that you won’t see anywhere else! Enjoy crafts, plenty of food vendors, and live music, plus the Woolly Worm Wace. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6 to 12, and free for children five years of age and younger. Proceeds go to support children’s charities, small businesses, and tourism. October 17 – 18; Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, 828-898-5605, woollyworm.com Brushy Mountain Apple Festival – This free one-day arts and crafts festival on October 3, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in downtown Wilkesboro, has three music stages, hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and food. On the Friday night before the festival, October 2, gather at the corner of 10th and Main Streets in downtown North Wilkesboro for Apple Jam, a live music event starting at 6 p.m. The proceeds go to the Brushy Mountain Ruritan Club, a group that supports nonprofit organizations and families in need. | Downtown Wilkesboro, 336-921-3499, applefestival.net Newland Christmas Tree Festival – The Christmas Tree Festival will be held the weekend before Thanksgiving, November 20-21, on the town square across from the courthouse from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy live music, magicians, a stilt walker and jugglers There will be tree growers along with craft and food vendors. | Town

Old Barn Winery

Shady Valley Cranberry Festival – It’s held every year the second weekend in October. This year’s event will be held October 9-10 at the Shady Rock School. Live music, craft and food vendors, an auction, and a parade are all a part of the fun. | Shady Rock School, 423 Hwy 133, Shady Valley, TN, 423-739-2423, Facebook @ cranberry festival 99/ n AND EVERYWHERE ELSE Appalachian Theatre of the High Country – This restored theatre has too many dates and acts to count so please check out our Cultural Calendar, and their website events page for tickets and information at apptheatre.org | 559 W King St, Boone, 828-865-3000 Appalachian Arts – Offering a diverse array of music, dance, and theatre programming for audiences of all ages, September through April. Musical events range from symphony orchestra and chamber music performances to jazz, blues, folk, popular and international artists. | Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts, 733 Rivers St., Boone, 828-262-4046, schaefercenter.appstate.edu/appalachian-arts Jones House – Old-Time Acoustic Jams with local and visiting musicians every Thursday at 7 p.m. for an old-time jam. Bring an instrument and join in or just

enjoy the music. Also check their website regarding upcoming indoor concerts. At 604 W King St, Boone, 828-268-6280, Joneshouse.org Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music – Live music events in various locations and dates. Check their website for upcoming concert dates. | 962 Mt Jefferson Rd, West Jefferson, mountainhomemusic.org The Orchard at Altapass – Free live music in the outdoor pavilion through October on Saturdays and Sundays, 2-4 p.m. | 1025 Orchard Rd., Spruce Pine, 828-7659531, altapassorchard.org Crossnore Jam – Free live jam sessions. Bring an instrument if you would like to join in! Town Meeting House on the first Friday of the month at 10:30 a.m. and every Tuesday at 1 p.m. | Crossnore Drive, Crossnore, 828-733-0360.

Linville Falls Winery

Saloon Studios Live – This all-inclusive musical venue is the ultimate music lover’s retreat, set in the Blue Ridge Mountain community of West Jefferson. Concerts through September. | 313 Old West Rd., West Jefferson, 336-877-2374, saloonstudioslive.com Search for additional regional music opportunities at Blue Ridge Music Trails: blueridgemusicnc.com. Be sure to check with each venue or search online for any changes to dates, times, locations, and restrictions before heading out. Art on the Mountain

Bluegrass Country Music Jam – This is a community event at the Historic Banner Elk School in the Book Exchange on the 3rd Mondays of the month at 6 p.m. through September. | 185 Azalea Way, Banner Elk, bannerelkbookexchange.com Red, White, and Bluegrass Jams – at the American Legion in Blowing Rock on the first and third Tuesday of the month from April to November. Come to listen or bring your instrument and join right in. | 333 Wallingford St, Blowing Rock, 828295-5222, Facebook @ rwbj.boone.nc/ CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

MUSIC

Square, Downtown Newland, 828-4132482, newlandchristmastreefestival.com

Mountain City Fiddlers Convention

Southern Highland Craft Guild at Moses Cone Manor Blowing Rock Art in the Park

Cheryl Roberts and Theresa McGrath at Art on the Mountain

Art Remarks ART REMARKS

By CML Staff

Autumn is the season for art! In our Festival Guide and Regional Happenings near the front of this issue, we highlighted numerous events taking place this fall that showcase artists and artisans, in addition to music, food, and family entertainment. Our annual “Locally Crafted” guide on pages 61-63 features many of our popular art galleries and shopping destinations which offer creative ideas for giftgiving. Here in Art Remarks, we share more opportunities to get to know makers, explore artistic destinations, participate in events and workshops, honor local artists, and discover countless treasures to take home. On the Front Porch at Cone Manor Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock, preserves the country estate of Moses Cone. Cone was a prosperous textile entrepreneur, conservationist, and philanthropist of the Gilded Age, and in 1901, he built “Flat Top Manor,” a 20-room mansion in the grand Colonial Revival style. The Manor is home to a Southern Highland Craft Guild shop, which features handmade crafts by hundreds of regional artists. Turned bowls, ceramic tableware, woven garments, and more handmade crafts are displayed throughout the first floor in different rooms. And seasonal craft demonstrations on the front porch invite visitors to watch and interact with Guild artisans demonstrating their craft and talking about their creative process. On September 26-27, join artist Julia Gaunt as she demonstrates her fiber arts work. “I have enjoyed creating and sewing useful products from up-cycled sweaters, like fingerless gloves, simple hats or microwavable pillows. Currently I am experimenting with Eco Printing using flowers and leaves on fabric and adding meaningful quotes to towels or pillows using free motion sewing. The Southern Highland Craft Guild shop at Flat Top Manor is a designated site along the Blue Ridge Craft Trails. Facebook.com/ shcgmosescone/, blueridgeheritage.com/destinations/moses-conemanor, southernhighlandguild.org/member/juliaagaunt/

50 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

From the Mountain to the Park to the River: Annual Arts Events to Add to Your Calendar Art on the Mountain, sponsored by the Ashe County Arts Council, takes place on Saturday, September 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on the grounds of the Ashe Arts Center. This free event blends together local history and West Jefferson’s flourishing arts district through the work of art. Explore a diverse array of mediums, with over 25 local and regional artists and craft persons showcasing their creative wares in downtown West Jefferson. You can find holiday gift ideas, fall theme items, unique art pieces, crafts and more. ashecountyarts. org/art-mountain/ Over in Blowing Rock, the final Art in the Park art show of the 2026 series takes place on Saturday, October 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy fine art and handcrafts from award-winning and acclaimed artisans, all jury-selected for their craftsmanship. Find gifts and works for personal collections, functional beauties like furniture and cutlery, and wearable art, fine jewelry and textiles. Attendees can enjoy proximity to other shopping downtown, as well as dining options and local parks. Blowingrock.com/artinthepark On November 13-15, hop into your vehicle and head out on a self-guided Toe River Arts Fall Studio Tour, where you’ll explore 80+ artist studios and galleries across Mitchell and Yancey counties. Drive scenic country roads, meet artists in their creative spaces, and discover diverse treasures. Pick up a hard-copy Studio Tour Guide from the Toe River Arts gallery in Spruce Pine or from the Yancey County Chamber of Commerce; download a copy at toeriverarts. org. Along with the Studio Tour, participating artists will exhibit their work in the Spruce Pine gallery at 269 Oak Avenue, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. The Magical “Storybook Forest” at The Children’s Playhouse High in an oak tree, a mama owl dozes with her little owlets, lulled by birdsong and a gurgling creek. There’s a clatter of excited children playing and suddenly, she’s awake! “Whoooo’s that playing on the forest floor?”

Stanley Anderson at Spruce Pine Potters Market

Julia Goheen in “Storybook Forest” at The Children’s Playhouse

Bridget VanRemortal Star

Spruce Pine Potters Market Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mitchell and Yancey counties are home to an extraordinary community of ceramic artists whose work is recognized nationally and internationally. Each year on the second weekend in October, a collective of these renowned artists gathers in downtown Spruce Pine, NC, to present a vibrant celebration of contemporary and traditional clay work, offering a unique opportunity to see fresh new work while meeting the artists who create it. Mark your calendar and join the nearly 30 participating artisans at this year’s Spruce Pine Potters Market (SPPM) on October 10–11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This two-day event showcases juried work and welcomes collectors, clay enthusiasts, potters, students, and visitors from near and far. Meet the artists, discover one-of-a-kind pottery, and experience the creativity of Western North Carolina’s vibrant clay community at the Cross Street Building, 31 Cross Street in Spruce Pine. The historic Cross Street Building is a beautifully restored former textile factory with tall windows, exposed wooden beams, and hardwood floors. It’s an informal atmosphere that fosters connections and offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with the artists of the Potters Market, who apply a remarkable range of techniques, styles, and artistic approaches to create a broad range of work—sculptural and functional pottery, large- and small-scale pieces, and ceramics created for cabinets, tables, walls, shelves, gardens, and outdoor spaces. A highlight of the event is the annual SPPM Sweepstakes, featuring donated ceramic works by selected participating artists. Fifty percent of sweepstakes proceeds benefits The Hive, a community center serving youth and families living at Walnut Avenue Apartments in Spruce Pine. The Hive is a partnership between the Spruce Pine Housing Authority and Penland School of Craft that provides a safe, creative, and welcoming environment within walking distance of residents’ homes. sprucepinepottersmarket.com Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

ART REMARKS

This isn’t somewhere off the trail at Elk Knob or Moses Cone. It’s in a tiny, indoor forest in Boone’s own children’s museum, The Children’s Playhouse. Over a year in the making, “The Storybook Forest” was entirely handmade by Watauga locals for the enjoyment of children and adults. This immersive exhibit was constructed using painted paper collage, carpentry, painting, block printing, cloth and paper-mâché sculpture. Designed by Playhouse founder and executive director Kathy Parham, the Forest came to life with help from key volunteers Ed Folts (carpentry), Anna Welsh (art), and interns Emma Wenzel (structural design) and Stevie Watson (interior design). Other community volunteers, including children, contributed elements to the exhibit. In the forest, kids can dress up as a wildflower or an animal and put on their own puppet shows inside the Little Acorn Theatre in the Old Oak Tree. Or, they might put baby animals to bed in the Animal Friends Apartments. “I was inspired by our beautiful Blue Ridge mountains and by memories of all the books I loved as a child and loved sharing with my own children,” explains Parham. Parham helped start the museum 24 years ago when her own children were 18 months and 5 years old. A self-taught artist, in 2024 she was awarded a fellowship to a professional learning program focused on creative innovation offered by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and the Association of Children’s Museums. Books are tucked into nooks around the room and inside the wardrobe. A “portal painting” depicts a child’s bedroom behind the trees. The painting references Where the Wild Things Are, Good Night Moon, and several other favorites. Elsewhere in the exhibit, the painted paper collage technique used for the 360-degree mural was modeled on Eric Carle’s art. Now that the Forest is open, the museum is using leftover supplies from the project in the Playhouse’s art room, inviting kids to create even more nature inspired art. Puppet making workshops are also offered. “We had so much fun with this project,” Parham says. “It was like being a child at play.” The Children’s Playhouse is a non-profit children’s museum located at 400 Tracy Circle, Boone. Learn more at goplayhouse.org.

Nick Joerling at Spruce Pine Potters Market

Jerry Stringham

ART REMARKS

Anne Burgess’s watercolor featuring the Middle Fork Greenway

Artisan League of Little Switzerland

Experience the Timeless Craft of Basket Making On Thursday, November 19 at Mica Gallery in Bakersville, expert basketmaker Bridget Van Remortel will lead a three-hour holiday star-making workshop from 5 to 8 p.m. Each participant will make three different stars using basket techniques with reeds that Bridget will supply. Mica Gallery will provide festive refreshments. Van Remortel is an accomplished workshop leader and extraordinary basketmaker whose work is on display at Mica Gallery. She loves to use color in her baskets to make something fun and functional, and she also says that she loves the process of creating art with her hands. Limited to 20 people, the workshop cost is $100 for each participant. To sign up and reserve your spot, contact Robbie Bell, Speckled Dog Pottery, at 828-434-0353 text/cell, or speckleddog@live.com. See our article, “Gathering up History in the Tradition of Basket Making,” on pages 57-58. Remembering Anne Burgess: Artist and Founder of the Middle Fork Greenway Virginia Anne Burgess, who passed away in June, was, according to her friends at the Middle Fork Greenway, “the true inspiration and spark behind our mission to complete this project.” In the late 1990s, Burgess gathered residents along the Middle Fork New River corridor to discuss ways to improve the communities between Blowing Rock and Boone, and the vision for the Middle Fork Greenway was born. By the early 2000s, the group formed a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and began securing grants to acquire land, build pocket parks, and construct the greenway. Today, the Middle Fork Greenway is an ongoing Blue Ridge Conservancy project in partnership with Watauga County, the Town of Blowing Rock, the Town of Boone, and many community partners. Considered to be a wonderful artist, Burgess created a watercolor depiction of the trail as a “green ribbon” tying the towns of Boone and Blowing Rock together. More of her works appear locally, and

52— Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

she held the honor of having her watercolor paintings selected for four covers of New Yorker Magazine in the 1980s. “Throughout the decades, Anne’s dedication to the Middle Fork Greenway was unsurpassed. She not only championed the vision, but also generously contributed her time, resources, wisdom, and physical labor to maintain the parks—always infusing her work with a sense of artistic whimsy that can still be found along the trail today. Her legacy will live on forever through the Middle Fork Greenway.” Artisan League of Little Switzerland Presents... Join the Artisan League of Little Switzerland at their Fall Arts & Crafts Market on October 10 and 11, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., in Geneva Hall, located next to the Switzerland Inn. The League’s annual Market celebrates the best of local artistic talent and innovative creations in the area, and features a gathering of local artisans and makers showcasing handmade pottery, wood works, photography, painting, innovative fiber arts, one-of-a-kind jewelry and countless other treasures. facebook.com/ArtisanLeagueOfLittleSwitzerland Artist Jerry Stringham Branches Out We first introduced you to “chainsaw artist” Jerry Stringham of Stringham Carvings in our Autumn ‘25 issue. Stringham has been sculpting with a chainsaw for nearly two decades, learning the craft from his father. Today, you’ll find his work in dozens of places throughout the High Country, including Valle Crucis Community Park, Banner Elk Elementary School, numerous homes and businesses, and even at this year’s Woolly Worm Festival! Bears are a specialty, but his work is as diverse as nature—eagles, trout, cats, dogs, moose, donkeys, cardinals—you name it, Stringham carves it! In fact, much of his new work takes shape from custom commissions. See what the artist is working on today at facebook.com/Stringhamcarvings/; scroll through his posts and find a fascinating reel of Jerry and his father carving a beautiful eagle together, from start to finish!

Mustard Seed Market

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54 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

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56 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

crossnore.org

Installation View:

Weaving our Heritage: Cherokee Baskets (July 18, 2026 - February 13, 2027), Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. Photo: Josh White

Eva Wolfe, Indian Arts and Crafts Board photograph.

Photo courtesy of Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual Inc.

Gathering up History in the Tradition of Basket Making By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

f we want to carry, contain, or measure items, we generally have a host of possible tools that can serve our purposes, from cardboard boxes to glass bottles to plastic cups. Throughout human history, across the globe, and right here in Appalachia, many of those needs were met by an object far more durable than a paper bag and infinitely more beautiful than a plastic tote: the woven basket. The utility, artistry, and legacy of basket-weaving is an integral element in the history of Appalachian culture, particularly among the Cherokee, whose enduring relationship with basketry is currently being celebrated at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. Basket-making is one of the oldest human arts, with evidence of its practice dating back thousands of years. From Africa to Polynesia, humans have used organic materials to create an array of woven forms. In North America, baskets were frequently utilized by indigenous people, but few have a history as intimately connected to baskets as that of the Cherokee. “The Principal People,” or “Ani’yun’ wiya’,” as they historically referred to themselves, have a rich mythology full of marvelous feats performed by animals, like the great buzzard whose

wingbeats formed the mountains and valleys of Appalachia where the Cherokee roamed and lived. One of the most treasured of these stories is that of the water spider. When fire arrived in the world, it fell on an island, and no one could reach the fire and transport it across the water to the people. Then, the water spider traveled to the island and wove a basket to carry the fire on her back, protecting it from the water. She brought the fire safely back across the water to share it. So beloved is that original clever basket-weaver that the water spider continues to appear prominently in Cherokee art and signage, like that for the recently updated Museum of the Cherokee People in Cherokee, NC. Honoring the female water spider is just one reason why women were traditionally responsible for basket construction among the Cherokee. Primarily using rivercane, for centuries they created an array of baskets for both ceremonial and utilitarian uses. With the arrival of European settlers, new elements entered Appalachian basketry. Relying heavily upon white oak splits for their baskets, the settlers brought their own techniques and styles. The Cherokee began integrating additional materials, particularly

white oak, and gradually more men became engaged in the craft of making baskets. Although often labor-intensive, basket-making was an activity in which many people were engaged, some merely to create a necessary item from readily available resources; others, however, shaped those necessary items into intricate objects of beauty. Among both Cherokee makers and those who came after, specific communities and families developed their own specific methods of construction and weaving patterns. Styles may identify specific regions of basket-making and even specific makers. For the next few centuries, Appalachian people continued to rely upon baskets as vital tools, using them to carry chickens and eggs to market, to organize household items, and to store apples, onions, and potatoes. Baskets were often useful trade items, and new designs and traditions came into the region with travelers and settlers. As a more “disposable” worldview began to find its way into the mountains, baskets became less essential to daily life. Fortunately, the art of basket-making continued, and many artists found their work appreciated by a new audience. Continued on next page

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Bridget VanRemortel at Mica Gallery in Bakersville

Judy Meek at BE Artists Gallery in Banner Elk

The early twentieth-century folk arts and crafts revival led to an interest in baskets that provided traditional basketmakers with a market for their work. In addition, fireside industries, such as the very successful programs in places like Berea College, promoted the work of traditional craftspeople and allowed the art of basket-making to be passed along to those who wished to learn. Basketmaking became a popular hobby in Appalachia and beyond as those who no longer had to rely on the basket for its practical uses continued to appreciate its value as an art form and as an enjoyable craft. Appalachian craft fairs and similar events usually include at least one booth selling locally made baskets, sometimes with the maker there to demonstrate the clever process of weaving the strips of wood or vine into intricate designs and structures. Even as modern basketry brings in colors and designs that are very different than those of the past, there is still a strong interest in the collection and preservation of antique baskets and the skills that were used to create them. Today baskets are often viewed as more decorative than utilitarian, but their history is woven into their continued popularity. The demand for more decorative items has encouraged many traditional artists in the Qualla Boundary of western NC, particularly women, and basketry continues to serve an important cultural and artistic role among Cherokee basketmakers.

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Rivercane basket at Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc.

Celebrating the extraordinary history and continuing legacy of Cherokee basket-weaving, the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum is currently hosting Weaving our Heritage: Cherokee Baskets, an exhibition that opened July 18 and which will be open until February 13, 2027. The exhibit features work by over a dozen celebrated Eastern Band of Cherokee basket-makers, including Geraldine Walkingstick and Eva Wolfe. Several of the artists are family members, a testament to the strongly family-oriented nature of both Cherokee culture and the art of basket-weaving. The artists on exhibit represent an array of interpretations of the traditional art of Cherokee basket-making as well as evolving approaches. Admission to the museum is always free, so residents and visitors are encouraged to come and experience this remarkable exhibit, curated by Anna Fariello, who has devoted over thirty years to cultural preservation in Virginia and North Carolina. In addition, on October 13-17, artist Betty Maney, whose work is featured in the exhibit, will be joining BRAHM for a residency that will include a lecture, weaving technique demonstrations in the gallery, and visits to art classes at both Appalachian State University and Watauga High School. While we may no longer rely on baskets for transporting goods to market or keeping produce in the root cellar, learning about this ancient and essential tool can certainly lead to a greater appreciation for baskets and for the incredible

artists who continue to create them. Today, while we generally think of baskets as decorative items, understanding more about their critical role in the past and the process required to make them may inspire us to look more closely at those baskets that hold our magazines, bread, and napkins or which appear at Easter and Christmas. Once, these humble, yet beautiful containers were absolutely essential to the people of Appalachia, and now they may serve as a reminder of those people, of their resourcefulness, and of their creativity. To learn more about the Cherokee Basket-weaving exhibit at BRAHM, go to www.blowingrockmuseum. org/see/weavingourheritage. Find locally handwoven baskets for purchase at art galleries throughout the High Country.

Art installment at Blowing Rock Art & History Museum

Rhododendron Rail

On Site with Anvil Arts IMAGINE . . .

ou’re a few minutes early for the gathering. Take your time, look around. The steps, they’re made of stone. Thick grey slabs. Odd shapes, but puzzled together by the mason into broad, flat treads. Step up, your hand goes naturally to the rail. It looks like a branch that has been trimmed and peeled. It’s a rich, dark brown—blackish, even. Straight, but kinked. It feels like a branch. Round, a bit knobbly. Your fingers explore the texture, find the grip. Step up again. Grip the rail and pull. It’s cool and unbending. This rail is solid steel, and it’s beyond strong. It’s built like a railroad bridge. Look around. You’re surrounded by grand old trees, ferns, the ivy at your feet. The building is a fine place with a gabled front and a deep, shady porch, almost hidden by gnarled rhododendrons. The handrail has elements of the rhododendron; it evokes the rhododendron, but it is a handrail and does that job fully. At the same time, it belongs here. And truly, it completes the scene—a bit of engineering, and full measure of imagination. A brew of man-made and nature-made. Hand-made. One last step. A bit of sun up here. Take the rail and grip. Familiar knobbly texture, but a little different this time, and warm,

Shaping with the pneumatic hammer

By Edwin Ansel

it’s a living thing. You’re shaking hands with an old friend. This scene, this handrail, exists, and that was my experience with it. The handrail is a product of Anvil Arts, the studio and shop of Bill Brown and his son, Gamble Brown. Gamble invited me to witness how a handrail is crafted. The shop where the work is done has plenty of hard, pointy things to bump into, and snaky, heavy things to trip over. And there’s a massive, splendid anvil. It has a name—of course it has a name, an anvil has personality as much as the next guy. The name is Gladiator, and it’s bolted to a great chunk of locust wood with the bark still on, which is awesome. The work appears simple. Heat a steel bar to the color of sunshine, smash it with a huge pneumatic hammer, rotate the bar, smash again, repeat. Deceptively simple. “We start with a steel bar,” says Gamble. “It’s an industrial product, made to exact specifications, straight and square. But the goal is to create something that looks natural, like a living tree. You have to ruin that bar first, and then re-make it as a tree.” And that’s what I saw. Heavy hits to wipe out all those machine-made surfaces, and many lighter hits to give that knobbly texture. A powerful press to make kinks and curves in the heavy rails, but for the

thinner bits, Gamble bends the steel with the help of Gladiator and some muscle. The pneumatic hammer is a wonderful thing. Air lifts a steel ram and drives it down, updownupdownupdown, a couple of times per second. It hits hard enough to flatten a steel bar with a few hits, but it can also deliver a gentle tap. Exquisite control, so sensitive, and a mirror of the craftsman using it. “If you are mad, the hammer is mad.” Gamble gave a quick demonstration. Taking an old matchbox, he opened it halfway and placed it under the ram. With a touch on the foot control, he brought the ram down once and closed the matchbook halfway. An instant later, the second tap closed it a little more. Next instant the ram, moving so fast it’s a blur, closed the matchbook. Precisely closed, and not a fraction more. The fragile matchbook itself was unharmed. Then he floored it, the ram smashed down, the matches exploded and everything vanished in a puff of smoke. Crafting the rail is only half the job, of course. The first step is to visit the site, live with it a little, dream a little. In the High Country, rhododendron may be the inspiration. Gamble showed me a section of handrail designed for a house near the coast which has elements from sea oats and cattails. There is also a bit of maintenance. Continued on next page

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Cornmaze Pumpkins Flowers Hayrides Gamble and Gladiator

Open Labor Day Weekend thru the Last Sunday in October Fridays: 10am-6pm | Saturdays: 10am-6pm | Sundays: 1-6pm No Reservations Required (828) 260-0765 | 3287 NC 194, Valle Crucis, NC 28691

Open Labor Day Weekend thru the Last Sunday in October Fridays: AUTUMN!” 10am-6pm “HAPPY Saturdays: 10am-6pm

Sundays: 1-6pm No Reservations Required (828)260-0765 | 3287 NC 194 Valle Crucis, NC 28691

The Consignment Cottage Warehouse

“From Classic Traditional to Unique Eclectic, and Everything In Between!” 66 Pershing St, Newland, North Carolina 828-733-8148 / hello@ccwconsignment.com / ccwconsignment.com Open Wednesday - Saturday 10-5, Year Round

Once a year Gamble visits each installation to inspect the work and apply a fresh coat of a light varnish to prevent corrosion. Doing good work and standing behind that work has created a community. Gamble has made new things for the grandchildren of his father’s clients. The value of a hand-crafted item like the handrail was brought home to me recently. Driving by a construction site I saw a crew working on someone’s dream house—it might be made from standard lumber, manufactured windows, hybrid flooring. Machine-made surfaces that look, and feel, like machine-made surfaces. These things are not bad, but they are, in a word, dead. Dead to the touch. Dull to the eye. Silent. Wrap your fingers around a chrome plated tube. It gives nothing back. Says nothing. Awakens nothing. Crafted things! There is joy to be had from crafted things. At Anvil Arts they produce handrails, and that’s because people ask for them. With the same tools and skills, they can produce all manner of things with a human touch. Door hardware. Drawer pulls. Fire tools. What do you want? Ask for it. Seek joy. Anvil Arts is also a gallery where you can see the work from a couple dozen people who make wonderful things. Paintings, sculpture, wooden objects, glass, stone. The gallery is small but richly furnished with these joyful things. Stop by, check it out. If you want to chat with Gamble about a commissioned piece, call 828-765-6226 or come by the gallery & shop in Linville Falls, 9600 Linville Falls Hwy, 28657. www.studiosculpture.com

60 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Looking for gift ideas this season? Visit the shops

Locally Crafted

and galleries in this guide for one-of-a-kind, affordable art and crafts.

n BE Artists Gallery 185 Azalea Cir. SE, Banner Elk, NC 28604 beartistsgallery.com

n Mica Gallery 37 N Mitchell Ave., Bakersville, NC 28705 828-688-6422 | micagallerync.com

“BE Artists Gallery has locally created works of art and functional crafts for everyone on your list. You will love the ‘found art’ of Doug Roberts and these beautifully crafted walking sticks.”

“Daniel Essig creates wood-covered art books and book-based sculptures incorporating unusual woods, handmade paper, found objects, fossils, and mica. On display and available for sale at Mica Gallery is a wide variety of functional and sculptural art.”

n Banner Elk Shirt Company and The Caffeinated Elk Fudgery & Coffeehouse 3221 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-4006 Facebook @ Banner-Elk-Shirt-Company

n Tatum Galleries 5320 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-963-6466 | tatumgalleries.com

n Carlton Gallery 10360 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-963-4288 | carltongallery.com

“Explore our locally crafted tables, furniture, cutting boards, coasters, ornaments, and more, all expertly made in our wood shop. From building and refurbishing furniture to creating unique products, our work embodies craftsmanship and community spirit.”

“Molly Lithgo’s wheel-thrown and hand-built red earthenware forms are delightfully decorated to imply a sense of home, whimsy, comfort, and the natural world. We just call it ‘happy pottery.’ Come visit Carlton Gallery and view a wide range of highly crafted art.”

“The Caffeinated Elk Fudgery & Coffeehouse is beside Banner Elk Shirt Co. on Tynecastle Hwy! Stop in for fresh coffee, homemade fudge, ice cream, and sweet treats while exploring Banner Elk.”

n Mustard Seed Home 312 Green St., Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-818-0036 mustardseedblowingrock.com “Blue Ridge Botanic bandanas are lightweight and feature a field guide to local mushrooms and wildflowers! They are 100% cotton and come in different varieties of colors.”

Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

n Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 NC-194, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-963-7347 Facebook @ Sally-Nooney-Gallery

n Apple Hill Farm Outpost 414 Shawneehaw Ave. S, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-2200 | applehillfarmnc.com

n Fred’s General Mercantile 501 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604 828-387-4838 | Fredsgeneral.com

“Just a cute little pig dish to brighten up your day! Find this and others like it at the gallery!”

“The Apple Hill Farm Outpost is a Downtown Banner Elk Shop featuring Local Foods, alpaca products, and artisan gifts.”

“Blowing Rock Creations’ scented soy wax candles are healthy, clean, and pure, and capture the awesome aromas of the mountains.”

n Shipley Farms Farm Store 1699 Linville Creek Rd., Vilas, NC 28692 828-484-1872 | Shipleyfarmsbeef.com

n Grandview Market Collective 10545 NC Hwy 105, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-457-9275 | Grandviewcollective.us

n Sugar Mountain Wreath & Garland 675 Pineola St., Newland, NC 28697 828-733-2819 | Sugarmtnnursery.com

“At the Farm Store or online you can not only purchase our signature dry aged beef grown and processed in Vilas, NC, you can also choose from a variety of local artisanal products like Spicewalla, sourced from the best ingredients, to perfected blends, and brought to your kitchen.”

“Cory Plott makes artisanal pottery here in Western North Carolina. His pottery is available at Grandview Market Collective along with so much more!”

“Our fresh wreaths and garland are the best quality around. Take home a piece of the mountains or have shipped fresh to you or your loved ones anywhere in the U.S.!”

n Ashe County Arts Council Gallery Shop 303 School Ave., West Jefferson, NC 28694 336-846-2787 | ashecountyarts.org

n Rivercross Made in USA 3595 NC Hwy 194, Sugar Grove, NC 28697 (Located in the heart of Valle Crucis) 828-963-8623 | Facebook @ rivercrossmadeinusa

n Lucy Morgan Gallery at Penland School of Craft 3135 Conley Ridge Rd., Penland, NC 28765 828-765-6211 | Penland.org

“We invite you to visit the Ashe Arts Center Gallery Shop in West Jefferson. There are over forty artists with original handcrafted items for sale. Items perfect to be a souvenir of your trip to West Jefferson, items perfect for gifts or that little something for yourself.”

62 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

“Perfect gifts for everyone…. including yourself. All the works at Rivercross are made in the USA. These gorgeous raku pieces are made by Lynn Jenkins, a local artist in Valle Crucis.” .

“The Lucy Morgan Gallery displays contemporary crafts curated by our staff, providing a glimpse into what’s happening in studio classrooms at Penland School and in artists’ studios across the country. Courtney Martin is a studio potter in the mountains of NC. Her pots are made from NC clay, fired in her wood kiln, and meant for daily use.”

n Crossnore Weavers & Gallery 205 Johnson Lane, Crossnore, NC 28616 828-733-4660 crossnore.org/crossnore-weavers

n The Shoppes at Farmers 661 W King St., Boone, NC 28607 828-264-8801 | Facebook.com @ shoppesatfarmers

n The Eclectic Nest and Closet 7547 US-19E, Elk Park, NC 28622 828-742-1999 | eclecticnestandcloset.com

“Enjoy the everyday beauty and durability of our solid colored coarse weave placemats, woven of 100% cotton. Coordinate with matching napkins.”

“Ceramic work from Carrie Adriana Balda-Sherer. Locally handmade mugs, vases, plant pots, pendants, souvenir Boone items and more!”

n Mountain View Garden & Landscaping Home and Garden Ctr. 1987 S. Shady St. (Hwy 421), Mountain City, TN 37683 423-727-2774 | mtnviewnursery.com

n Anvil Arts Studio Sculpture 9600 Linville Falls Hwy, Linville Falls, NC 828-765-6226 | Studiosculpture.com

n Johnson County Center for the Arts 129 W Main St., Mountain City, TN 37683 423-460-3313 | jocoartcenter.org

“Check out our Home and Garden Center in Mountain City, TN. We’ve stocked our store with thousands of home goods and wonderful gift ideas!! This bear carving was made by a local craftsman.”

“Outdoor sculpture as well as sculpture and art for interiors is displayed across the grounds, sculpture garden, and indoor gallery space. Gamble Brown has launched a line of golf accessories, including putting cups and divot tools. Shop online or swing by the gallery to pick some up.”

“At Johnson County Center for the Arts, you can almost always find an artist at work as you shop for paintings, pottery, woodcraft, fiber arts creations, soaps and so much more, all handmade by local artisans. Rick Ramsey uses only the finest quality blades and materials in his knives.”

n Mast General Store 2918 Broadstone Rd., Banner Elk, NC 28604 (In the heart of Valle Crucis) 828-963-6511 630 W King St., Boone, NC 28607 828-262-0000 | mastgeneralstore.com

n Southern Highland Craft Guild /Moses Cone Manor Milepost 294 Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock, NC 828-295-7938 | southernhighlandguild. org/mosesconemanor

n Timber & Twine 163 Shawneehaw Ave. S, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-478-6030 | timberandtwineco.com

“The sweet, classic taste of strawberries mixed with the distinct flavor of North Carolina moonshine will give you the kick you need anytime you spread it on your breakfast! This jelly would make a terrific gift for someone who wants the taste of the mountains in a jar.”

“Turned bowls, ceramic tableware, woven garments, and more are among some of the finest quality Appalachian hand-made crafts created by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Come enjoy our seasonal craft demonstrations on the front porch while soaking up the views.”

“Handcrafted one-of-a-kind journals to inspire your journaling by local Roan Mountain artist Marta Soto.”

“Stay-at-home North Carolina mom Katie Cooper started selling her ‘mom’s secret recipe’ for seasoned pretzels during the pandemic. These small batch pretzels are hand seasoned and bagged with no two pieces being the same. A percentage of the sales goes to help families living in poverty.” CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

The Ole Burley Market before Renovation Built in the 1940s as a bustling auction warehouse for burley tobacco

From the Past to the Present:

The Ole Burley Market By Kate Hamilton Pardee

High Country Tea and Grazing Room

Photo by Michella Allen

ometimes the history in a town can repeat itself in the best ways. The Old Burley Warehouse in West Jefferson, NC, exemplifies this. Once a bustling tobacco warehouse and auction facility, the building at 137B Graybeal Avenue—also known as Burley Ave., next to what locals refer to as “The BackStreet”—was a hub for the tobacco industry and part of Ashe County’s community history. Chris and Brandi Phipps, longtime Ashe County residents, have now given this landmark—after purchasing it in 2019 and renaming it The Ole Burley Market— a vibrant new chapter: a lively destination with distinctive local businesses, shops, and food worth exploring. This exciting acquisition for the Phipps has come with a lot of hard work and a personal story. Chris Phipps, owner of Phipps Construction, fondly remembers, “My family had farms that grew tobacco

64 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

in Crumpler for generations. I grew up playing inside the warehouse because my father worked there. For years we also grew 15 acres of tobacco. I loved going to the market and hold incredible memories from that time.” During the 1940s through the 1970s, Burley tobacco was a leading industry in West Jefferson. Andrew Cole, the Director of the Museum of Ashe County, explains, “Burley tobacco was once a big deal here. Much of this business was held at the market, where people gathered to bid on the tobacco during auction season.” The structure known as the Tri-State Burley Warehouse was originally built in 1947 by Larry Taylor. The Taylor Brothers purchased and operated it from 1952 into the 1990s. Tommy Faulkner and his wife, Mary Jo Faulkner Hicks, later bought it and the name changed to Farmer’s Burley Warehouse until she sold it to Lee McMillan. The Phipps Construction office had a direct view of the historic building. Over the years, Chris watched it fall into terrible disrepair: “I could see the wind tearing pieces off the roof and siding, and the building falling apart.” This place held dear memories for him, and knowing the current owner, he talked to him about possibly purchasing it. “After a couple of years, McMillan, facing declining health, decided to sell the property to me.” Brandi and Chris Phipps’ mission was to preserve the rich heritage of the historic tobacco warehouse while creating a vibrant

destination where community, commerce, and connection could once again come together. “We wanted to breathe new life into a landmark known for bringing tobacco generations together, but now to continue that legacy as a marketplace,” the couple passionately explains. It was a challenging project; COVID was affecting construction, but it moved forward. “We were committed to offering space to West Jefferson tenants losing their current places, desperately needing locations, along with new businesses wanting to move in,” adds Chris. “The renovation was complex, and an example included plumbing, which there was none of.” The renovation continues even as many new businesses are up and running. One of these new tenants is Michella Allen, owner and chef of the High Country Tea & Grazing Room, located to the left at the front of the market entrance. Upon entering her restaurant, you immediately experience a royal welcome from a life-size photo of King Charles. Yet it is the radiant decor and warmhearted ambiance that immediately captivates you. Tea Time was a treasured tradition for Michella growing up, shared with her grandmothers. You can see those memories expressed in the beautifully displayed tables, impeccably set with classic china. “Loyal customers gifted some of them,” she proudly shares. Michella is originally from Canada, where she was trained as a chef by her father and at the College of St. Clair in

High Country Tea & Grazing Room

Burley General Store

Windsor. At her restaurant, she warmly greets customers, or is in the kitchen creating culinary magic. Tasting her delicious scones, paired with melt-in-your-mouth homemade strawberry jam and cream tea, creates flavorful memories. On Monday nights, a roast and a Blue Plate special are served, but look for the themed dinners once a month. Incredible experiences and special events are ready to be shared with friends and family, but please remember to bring your camera to capture a picture with King Charles. Preserve these moments of royalty. Continue walking on the outdoor deck with comfortable benches and stop by Doe Ridge Pottery, an inviting loft and workspace owned by Ashley and Nate Fields. They bought the business from Bob Meier, Nate’s mentor, who started it 40 years ago in Boone, and later the Fields relocated Doe Ridge to the Ole Burley Market. “We proudly represent over 19 North Carolina local potters,” says Ashley. At Doe Ridge Pottery, you can see incredible handmade pieces and take classes to create your own journey in the art of pottery. In the open space, under the high ceilings, you can spend ample time marveling at the many styles and colors of the beautiful work on display. Continue your exploration of Ole Burley Market, and stop to learn about an appointment at Sprinkle’s Salt of the Earth, a holistic salt spa focused on the healing benefits of dry salt therapy. Owner Julie Sprinkle, a nurse Practitioner and

facilitator of this practice, opened her first establishment in Sparta, where she grew up. “This new community at the Burley Market has gratefully taken me in.” She is happily expanding here and invites everyone to try their new and calming salt treatments. Don’t miss stopping by Burley Sustainable General Store located in the back of Ole Burley Market. Upon entering, you can see old photos showcasing Brandi and Chris Phipps’ family history with the Old Burley Warehouse. In the General Store, you can clearly see Brandi Phipps’ vision in her merchandise and in the inviting market experience she provides. “I want to respect the true traditions of a community market yet update many of the items in a more organic and creative representation,” she says. Shop for Brandi’s unique and inspirational items, and stop by the soda fountain and coffee bar for treats with family and friends. Don’t forget to try a homemade meal or dessert, found in the fridges, to bring home—traditions with fun new twists. The future for The Ole Burley Market includes welcoming new tenants and planning future events. Tenants praise Chris and Brandi Phipps for their construction expertise and their committed business support, which is revitalizing the Market. Mark your map. The Ole Burley Market may be along The BackStreet, but put it front and center on your West Jefferson must-see list.

INSIDE OLE BURLEY... Learn more about these businesses inside The Ole Burley Market—then head out and explore! The building is located at 137B Graybeal Ave (also referred to as Burley Ave), at the intersection of BackStreet & Long St. in West Jefferson, NC. Backstreet Mane Salon: FB@ Backstreet Mane Salon Burley General Store: FB@ Burley General Store Davis Welding: 336-977-1927 Doe Ridge Pottery: doeridgepottery.com High Country Tea & Grazing Room: hctea.biz Lane Custom Framing & Gallery: Lanecustomframing.com Lavender Rain Massage & Wellness: lavenderrainmassage.com Let’s Be Artsy: letsbeartsy.com Mia’s Mark Salon & Retail: leaveyourmarkbeauty.com Mystic Mountain Beauty: instagram.com/ mysticmountain_beautybar/ Sprinkle’s Salt of the Earth: sprinklessaltoftheearth.com Unwound Yarn: unwoundyarn.com Willow Mountain Massage: instagram.com/willowmtmassage/

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

loCk rocks

by Loven Casting Company

Our rock-faced retaining wall system adds value and beauty to any landscaping or structural use.

66 — Summer 2017 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Choose the most convenient and versatile structural wall retaining system—one that can be installed quickly and trusted to last. We also customize LOCK ROCKS in various colors and sizes to meet the needs of any project. Because we manufacture our products locally in the high country, we keep your construction costs lower and offer personalized service.

Serving the High Country and Beyond

Add LOVEN to your next construction project!

Call 828-575-5793/828-284-1031 www.LovenCasting.com

Monster from Hellhole

Trey Lindsay:

The Boy Who Loved Monsters By Trimella Chaney

While in Miami, he met a wonderful and beautiful woman who worked for his aunt’s company. From a working friendship, a romance blossomed. This helped to develop Lindsay’s core belief that one can find meaning in tragic events “which lead to a sense of calm when bad stuff happens.” Embracing this mindset was once again needed when he received a phone call from the Disney Corporation the night before his wedding. Trey had applied for a Disney Fellowship, which included paid expenses to live and study screenwriting in Los Angeles. The coveted program usually awarded five fellowships chosen from 10,000 entries. Trey was a finalist; however, the cutoff that year was for three awards, and he was informed that he was number four. “That was my almost going to Hollywood story,” he laughs. After their wedding at Boone United Methodist Church, the decision was made to move to the Hudson Valley where wife Yris had family who could give the support that a young couple needed to start a new life together. Trey began working as a free-lance handson producer. Forming the company MOONDOG PICTURES, Trey began writing, directing, editing and creating motion graphics for numerous national clients including AT&T Wireless, Barnes & Noble, Bank of America, and Roche Pharmaceuticals. His weekends were reserved for having fun “making monsters rather than mowing the lawn.” In his late 20s, he realized that he was not going to become the next Spielberg, but he was paying the bills and enjoying his special effects “hobby.” “As soon as I relaxed, stuff started happening professionally. I posted a special effect shot of my own head being blown off online and it received many views and created interest in my work.” Contacts started happening. “Indie filmmakers do not have the budgets of the big studios, which made my stop-motion filming appealing, as opposed to high-end computer graphics.” Trey admits that he is not a “computer guy” but enjoys the building of the physical creatures. “In this new age of generative AI, hand-crafted work is more valuable now than the computer-generated images.”

Continued on page 70 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

In 1975 when Dr. Lindsay picked up his son from Lucy Brock Nursery School on the Appalachian State campus, he was delighted to hear the 4-year-old say that he wanted to be a scientist. “A chip off the old block!” thought the Appalachian State physics professor. However, when questioned later for more details, the child revealed that it was the monster he loved and he only wanted to be the man in the white coat who created it. Fast forward to the present and meet Trey Lindsay, acclaimed special effects artist and creator of MoonDog Pictures—and builder of monsters. A graduate of Appalachian State University in film production with a minor in screenwriting, Lindsay is quick to admit how grateful he is for his early life in Boone. He acknowledges the advantages of small-town living blended with the cultural advantages of a local university. He even admits that the mountains of New York’s Hudson Valley, his current home, remind him of western North Carolina. Many locals will recall the filming of THE WINTER PEOPLE here in Boone during the winter of ‘87. Trey, a sophomore at Watauga High School, was thrilled to be featured as an extra. “I was cast as an intimidating hillbilly, which was pretty funny given that I couldn’t even grow stubble yet.” But he soon hit it off with the makeup artist who applied his stubble. One day he found himself in the makeup trailer with Kurt Russell. Trey grilled the actor with questions about working with the director, John Carpenter, and impressed Russell that a kid from the middle of nowhere was such a film nerd (and was not star-struck!). This close-up look at movie-making with the pros at age 16 demystified the industry for him and allowed him to consider it as a possible career choice. During his senior year in college, Trey’s father passed away unexpectedly, an event which affected him profoundly. Before his dad’s death, he had planned on attending film school, and after receiving recognition as a finalist in a number of national screenwriting competitions had been accepted into several prestigious programs, including NYU and the University of Southern California. However, the intense grief he felt caused him to change his plans. Moving to Miami to live with his aunt and working with her fundraising company seemed to be the best idea upon graduation. He needed some distance from familiar places now that his dad was no longer here.

Celebrate America’s Birthday with Young Washington

THE BIG PICTURE SHOW

By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

Long before 1776, the man we call the father of our country was, himself, without a father, a young man trying to make his way in a world ruled by a distant king and by social constraints that appeared to have written his fate before he had a say in the matter. We tend to think of George Washington as a static figure, his profile carved in stone or stamped on the currency we use every day. Yet, the man who would become our first President was a real human being with his own failures and triumphs that helped to shape him into a military and political leader who set the standard for all who would follow him. Young Washington, from Angel Studios, seeks to tell part of that story. Released in time for July 4 festivities, but perfect throughout America’s 250th year and beyond, Young Washington is a great way to learn more about the early years of this central figure in our history. At the same time, it is an entertaining and compelling story of a real person making choices, facing trials, and trying to survive. William Franklyn-Miller plays George Washington for most of the film, beautifully portraying the internal and external struggles of this complex man with humanity and charisma. Washington is credited with saying that he was only chosen for leadership positions because he was usually the tallest man in the room, but we can see in this film how those leadership capabilities were both part of his character and the results of his experiences; those experiences included loss and often catastrophic mistakes. Without sugar-coating or wallowing in his early military blunders or lapses in judgement, the film clearly portrays that Washington was both flawed and determined, the personification of the advice given by his mother (Mary-Louise Parker): to regard failure as a tutor. Americans may be used to thinking of Washington as a winner, so seeing his struggles in both combat and social circles may be surprising. Unlike the actual historical people portrayed in the film, audiences know what became of this scrappy, ambitious young provincial, so the repeated line that “even a pawn may take a king” sounds prophetic. Yet, knowing the arc of Washington’s journey does not diminish the experience of the film. It is an enjoyable, action-packed movie with excellent music, editing, sets, costumes, and acting. While Franklyn-Miller is a fresh face, many of the supporting characters are played by veteran heavy-hitters like Parker, F. Murray Abraham, Andy Serkis, and Kelsey Grammer, all of whom deftly portray the array of real people who variously inspired, supported, and challenged George Washington along the rocky road from his father’s graveside to Monongahela. Soldiers, commoners, elites, women, and indigenous people weave in and out of Washington’s story, each

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thoughtfully depicted and providing a variety of perspectives on the past and its people. In many ways, Washington’s story seems like it was made for the screen, so Young Washington works well as a film, always entertaining even as it is inspiring and educational. Since it is a film, there are liberties taken with timelines and other elements, and even though some lines are taken from historic records, the words spoken by the actors are often those we can only imagine they probably said. But perhaps audience members will be inspired to look into the real stories of these events and people. Washington’s biography is already burdened with plenty of mythology, like the fictitious story of his confessing to chopping down the cherry tree, which has a fun in-joke that history fans will notice. Young Washington avoids loading up on the fictions and misinterpretations, despite the creative liberties required by filmmakers. The world of the 1750s is often messy, and the degree of filth is a nice historic touch, but the violence and other harsh realities of the past are depicted effectively without being gratuitous. For example, the fiasco of Fort Necessity is both soggy and brutal while effective editing and camera angles make the violence and misery clear but not graphic. Young Washington is suitable for most audiences, but its PG-13 rating should encourage parents of young children to pre-screen. While the spectacle and cinematography are most effective on the big screen, the several available streaming options are good choices for those who want to not only enjoy the film as entertainment but also use it as a discussion starter on topics like historic events and the reliance on Providence in our nation’s history. As we continue to celebrate 250 years of American liberty, Young Washington is a great reminder that our country, like our first President, has a complicated history, a history that includes violence, mistakes, and losses, but also a history guided by hard work, faith, and an optimistic hope in a bright future.

Book Nook

Western North Carolina & Eastern Tennessee in the American Revolution Michael C. Hardy, Author Published by The History Press, Charleston, SC —Reviewed by Nan K. Chase Mining a rich vein of regional history, author Michael C. Hardy has produced a gem. His in-depth account of an often overlooked front in the American Revolutionary War adds a new dimension to the understanding of the hardships and even savagery that created our nation. Today’s residents and visitors to the North Carolina High Country and the neighboring mountains of Tennessee may be astonished to learn that many familiar place names—Valle Crucis, Howard’s Knob in Boone, Spruce Pine, the Nolichucky River, Cherokee, Jonesborough—were sites of bitter and prolonged fighting that began well before July 4, 1776, and lasted beyond the British surrender at Yorktown. Or at least these places—and others off the mountains in the Piedmont—were home to some of the main characters in the drama. All the while, through countless bloody confrontations, early settlers made clear through their words and deeds that legal frameworks must be put firmly in place, and as early as possible, to provide order and fairness to community life. This book emphasizes how the enduring institutions of self-government grew from strong roots that the settlers cultivated even in the most isolated settings…and while the “country” was still a collection of 13 distinct colonies. Hardy also gives heft to the word “militia.” Although the population of the late 1700s mountain region was spread very thinly across thousands of square miles of dense forest and small farmsteads, local leaders were able to summon hundreds of armed citizens ready to come together in well-functioning groups to do battle wherever they were needed. Keep in mind that communications and transportation infrastructure were primitive by today’s standards.

The theme of Hardy’s latest book, one of some 30 he has written, is that this mountain region was an early battle zone because American settlers were pushing hard on the vast Cherokee lands. To simplify a situation as tangled as a thicket of dog-hobble: the British courted the Cherokee to help them defeat the colonists’ westward push and weaken their ability to fight Redcoat and Loyalist forces and gain independence. All sides held serious grievances, and all were unflinching in their battles. Hardy makes clear that civilians—women, children, and other noncombatants—suffered death or dismemberment in this epic struggle. In the glow of iconic Revolutionary set pieces like the Boston Tea Party and the occupation of New York City, it’s easy to gloss over the importance of the Southern theater of war as the struggles dragged on. Hardy makes clear that Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee were every bit as important. This history book does not move in a straight chronological line; rather, it weaves back and forth between the big picture and the details of people and places. This approach works well, allowing the author to highlight the roles of various individuals, as well as groups like Indian leaders, women, and Black Americans. Hardy also provides two useful segments at the end; the chapter “Looking for the American Revolution in Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee” serves as a guide to visiting 16 of the important places in his narrative, and an appendix on “Forts” describes several dozen early fortified outposts of note. Appalachia in The Hunger Games: Real-life Roots of District 12 Elizabeth Baird Hardy, Author Published by McFarland & Company, Inc., Jefferson, NC —Reviewed by Nan K. Chase Imagine for a moment someone who knows nothing about The Hunger Games novels and movies, the dark, dystopian, denselypeopled futuristic series of five apiece that has captivated millions with their gruesome competitions for survival. Even that person can find a masterpiece of cultural analysis in Elizabeth Baird Hardy’s beautifully written new book. How much more, then, will this insightful guide to District 12— the poorest zone in The Hunger Games’ universe, called Panem— amaze and delight real fans of the franchise, which is based on novels by Suzanne Collins. Hardy, a specialist in Appalachian studies, spent more than a decade on this book, and it shows. Long, languid paragraphs seamlessly meld countless details about The Hunger Games’ characters, their triumphs and tragedies, with the corresponding history and cultural features of Southern Appalachian. It’s as though the fictional characters and their misadventures are pebbles in a brisk mountain stream, tumbling endlessly over each other—polished by the grit of true Appalachian history—as they make their way downstream. Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

BOOK NOOK

In this installment of Book Nook, we introduce readers to two new books by long-time CML contributors Elizabeth and Michael Hardy, who also happen to be married to one another. As any book author knows, writing, editing and publishing a book is no easy task—it requires dedication, patience and a vast support network. With both Hardys releasing books this season, CML asked them about their unique and supportive partnership. “We are deeply thankful that God brought us together, over 30 years ago,” they share. “In addition to being blessed to be partnered in life, we are blessed to be partnered as writers. We each have our own interests and aspects of writing we enjoy the most, but we are grateful we can encourage one another and that we understand the strange and wonderful joys and challenges writing brings.” Here, we review both Michael’s and Elizabeth’s recent book releases...

BOOK NOOK: Continued from previous page As Hardy puts it, she hopes readers “may see Appalachia in a new light after seeing fictional characters encounter the plants and animals, the foods and songs, and the very worldview of the region, along with the stereotypes that have shaped the way the larger culture views Appalachia and her people.” In the Preface, Hardy sets the tone for what follows: “District 12 is, in many ways, a very real place, the Appalachia of the actual past as well as part of a fictional future. At the same time, Appalachia is something of a fiction itself, a place whose complex story is often intertwined with intentional and accidental untruths and exaggerations created and maintained by those inside and outside the region.” For District 12 is an imaginary version of Southern Appalachian coal country, too often denigrated in the broader American context as intellectually and economically lacking. Hardy’s quiet anger at this injustice pulses on every page, as when the stereotypical Appalachian native is seen as “dangerous, even subhuman….” Using the discipline of 12 chapters, Hardy educates readers about the riches of Appalachia: her geology and geography, flora and fauna, food and drink, family and faith, music and lore, self-sufficiency and isolation, “love and death” …smartly arrayed against the symbolism of clocks and the circle of time. The greatest strength of this book may be that this wealth of historical and cultural information can be read as a stand-alone work or as a Hunger Games companion piece. Hardy has cross-referenced every character, each plot twist within the prose for easy comprehension, with the simple device of a two-letter abbreviation for each of the books plus page numbers. But the Hunger Games innocent can skip lightly over these and enjoy the parallel narrative, or maybe even be drawn into the drama. For newly arrived High Country residents and vacationers alike, Appalachia in The Hunger Games can serve as a primer to regional habits and mores, and thus make any visit richer. And for oldtimers, the book may awaken precious memories and feed the soul. An extensive Bibliography attests to the academic rigor of Hardy’s book, yet the content is anything but dry.

IN OTHER BOOK NEWS... Imagination Library What a positive impact Dolly Parton had on so many young people! We pay tribute to her by continuing to spread the word about Imagination Library, her organization dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by gifting books free of charge to children from birth to age five. Through funding shared by Dolly Parton and local community partners, Imagination Library is now active in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and Republic of Ireland. “I know there are children in your community with their own dreams,” said Dolly. “The seeds of these dreams are often found in books and the seeds you help plant in your community can grow across the world.”

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LOVING MONSTERS: Continued from page 67

Trey’s unique work is becoming well-known in the horror film genre. He recently worked in Serbia for a month with Todd Masters on the film HELLHOLE. Masters’ work includes STAR TREK and TALES FROM THE CRYPT. With his characteristic humility, Trey says, “I was there working with one of my heroes as a peer! I would be happy sweeping out his shop and he was having me direct scenes and puppeteer tentacles.” His dream project? In 2020, during COVID, Trey began making his own film working with his then 10-year-old daughter, Samantha, as a little witch who was upset because Halloween was canceled (and it was, for real that year!), and she must venture into the haunted woods to bring it back. He is ready now to film the climax of the film with 16-year-old Samantha. (His 23-yearold son is not into horror flicks but does enjoy writing.) The Lindsay household is a home where the creative process is highly valued, and experience, rather than result, is encouraged. Trey Lindsay is an amazing creative talent but an even more amazing human who is grounded in reality while creating fantasy. As an un-Hollywood type of guy, he embraces opportunities with the philosophy, “Say yes to anything that seems fun, otherwise, it’s not worth it.” As a third grader at Hardin Park School, Trey got into trouble for bringing the horror magazine, FANGORIA, to class. In 2026, he is featured in it. Follow your dreams! Learn more about the life and work of Trey Lindsay at treylindsay.com. Horror fans will find the 2026 article on Trey Lindsay in FANGORIA vol 2, issue #30, available at: shop.fangoria.com/products/fangoria-magazine-vol-2-issue-30-winterjanuary-2026.

Wild Grapes

Autumn: A Season of Timeless Glory By Jim Casada of the good earth’s productivity comes to an end, has hallowed hallmarks without number. Collectively they offer a gift measured not so much in monetary value but as objects thrilling the senses while meriting enduring veneration. This is, of course, a season of abundance. Hickory nuts litter the forest floor. Black walnuts encased in their decaying hulls fall to the ground along fence rows and the edges of rural roads, and both set those mindful of the past to musing on what it must have been like when the lordly American ruled supreme as monarch of the Appalachians’ steep slopes and deep hollows. Ripening fox grapes scent the air along banks of branches and creeks with their heady aroma that promises, when made into jelly, to give a cathead biscuit a college education. Clusters of ‘possum grapes hang high up in the trees, awaiting real cold to bring out their sweetness. The fragrance of falling leaves drifts through the air on zephyr-like thermals weaving through woodlands, blending with damp soil and late wildflowers to create an essence no perfumier could ever hope to match. Anticipation and preparation are likewise in the air. Squirrels fuss and scurry about, alternately storing nuts and building nests, while their diminutive cousins, chattering chipmunks, pop in and out of holes as if playing a woodland version of hide-and-seek. Trout streams bedecked by floating leaves reflect color from overarching trees. Beneath their crystal surface speckled trout, their backs a vermiculated tapestry of olive and bronze and their sides adorned with halos encircling bright red dots, follow the urge of procreation as surely as migrating birds answer ages-old urges to travel invisible pathways southward. The farmer hails the harvest moon with fodder in the shock; pumpkins, cushaws, and other winter squash in the root cellar; Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

W I S D O M A N D WAYS

While the moment may show up as September 22 on calendars, anyone attuned to the weather vagaries of the High Country knows that arbitrary designation of the autumnal equinox (to use a phrase a beloved high school English teacher of mine would have styled “ten dollar wording”) doesn’t mark the real beginning of fall. Instead, every year there are defining moments, ones to be sensed and savored rather than determined in advance, when you realize another changing of the season has arrived. Those special moments take many forms, and only when they come together in a sort of magical mountain marriage do you know full transition from summer has occurred. It is all those little harbingers of change, bright pieces interlocking to form something at once mystical and magical, that give autumn its timeless glory. Mornings arrive with a bit of bite to them, maybe a faint breath of frost or a goose-bump inducing chill in the mists of morning. The heights celebrate by donning the most colorful of clothing from their expansive wardrobe for a short but stunning span that draws “leaf peepers” from near and far. The scarlet of sumac vies with the gold of hickories and poplars, while oaks contribute bronze to nature’s palette and maples run through a veritable spectrum of colors and visual delight. All are punctuated by the enduring greens of balsams and pines, laurel and rhododendron. Nature has put on her finest costume for a final celebration, one last hurrah, before the lean, sometimes mean days of winter lay their cold hold on the land. For true mountain folks, their richest inheritance is a deeply embedded sense of time and place, and this is a part of it. Indeed, it could be argued that inheritance is never more tangible, never more soul stirring, than at this season. Autumn, with its bittersweet blend of beauty and death, as another cycle

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October beans gathered and stored; and cannery shelves a-glisten with visual evidence of the good earth’s productivity. Soon it will be time to harken to the hunter’s horn and answer the allure of the hunter’s moon. It’s time for hearty breakfasts of morning and squirrel and dumplings come supper time. The land is never quite still and the landscape never static—but always it’s autumn. Those of us fortunate enough to have grown up in these ancient hills carry these thoughts and sensations of this season with us no matter where we roam. Ever steadfast, the memories of mountain autumns remain—the sound of a spitting and popping wood fire, the smell of burning leaves, the sight of dust devils dancing across harvested fields. Such sensations pulsate within us in a stronger and longer fashion than any of modern life’s pressures. Autumn is something embedded deep within us, better experienced in person than expressed in print. It is endearing and enduring, a reminder that we can savor the sweet of a place that is more than mere landscape. It’s a living companion. When the last leaves fall and hues of grey replace those of colorful wonder, when a time of abundance yields its place to one of austerity in completion of yet another of earth’s eternal cycles, autumn’s memories will remain. They linger in the mind, warm and winsome, inviting and inveigling. To know and experience such blessings is to realize that this season in the High Country places one at the portals of paradise. Jim Casada is a son of the mountains and a full-time freelance writer. His next book, Profiles in Mountain Character, is scheduled for publication in the next few months. To learn more about the book or sign up for his free monthly e-newsletter, visit www.jimcasadaoutdoors.com.

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W I S D O M A N D WAYS

Creative Interiors by Darlene Parker 828.898.9636 Highlanders Grill & Tavern Open 7 Days a Week 828.898.9613 Impeccable Pooch 828.260.7067 Jamie M. Miller, CPA, PLLC Certified Public Accountant 828.898.7607 MORGAN-KEEFE BUILDERS 828-693-8562 morgankeefe.com Peak Real Estate 828.898.1880 www.peakrealestatenc.com Salon Suites at Tynecastle • SALON M 828.260.3791 Shooz & Shiraz A Shoe & Wine Salon at The Dande Lion Sky Mountain Nail Bar 828.783.9393 The Dande Lion Ladies Apparel, Shoes, & Accessories 866.222.2050 and 828.898.3566 Truist Financial 828-292-9219 / www.Truist.com Valle de Bravo Mexican Grill valledebravomexicangrill.net 828.898.4949 Walgreens Pharmacy 828.898.8971 Yoga828 yoga828.com / 828-406-9610 SPACE AVAILABLE Please call us at 828-898-6246

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CAROLINA MOUNTAIN Autumn MOUNTAIN LIFELIFE Autumn ‘25 —‘26 — CAROLINA CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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“FIG”

ip Sickler Photo by Sk

G R A N D FAT H E R N OT E S

Anima Photo by l Adoption Leslie Rest ivo

Fig the River Otter

Grandfather Mountain has welcomed a new member to its otter habitat: Fig, a river otter who enjoys socializing with her new otter friend, Oscar, and her keepers. Fig arrived at Grandfather in the spring of 2026 with the hope of Stewardship Foundation habitat staff being that she would serve as a companion for Oscar. Oscar, who arrived at Grandfather in August 2014, was extremely attached to his previous habitat companion at Grandfather, Nova the river otter. Nova passed away at the age of 12 on Oct. 1, 2025, following complications from a suspected blood clot during a dental procedure. After months of going through the mountain’s quarantine and introduction processes with Oscar, Fig went on display in the otter habitat in mid-August. She is part of a special loan program through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, meaning that Fig is being hosted by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation for the foreseeable future. Programs like this allow for specialized habitat research, the optimization of social groupings, species survival planning, veterinary expertise, and much more. Fig was born in February 2025 at the Long Island Aquarium. Loans between zoos, aquariums and other centers are common through formal frameworks like Species Survival Plans. Otters at Grandfather Mountain have typically come from licensed wildlife rehabilitators, but when no otters were available in the timeframe that staff were looking for a companion for Oscar, they reached out to a facility that was looking for placement for some young otters they had in their care. “Fig has easily found her way into all of our hearts,” said Christie Tipton, animal habitats curator for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “For the first few weeks after Fig went through the quarantine phase, we worked to ensure that Oscar and Fig had a comfortable adjustment period with one another. They became fast friends and now enjoy running around together and taking long naps in their cozy bed after lunch.” Fig and Oscar enjoy playing together in the water and, of course, playing chase. River otters are playful by nature and can often be seen playing in the wild.

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Fall Color Ramble

Fig has proven to be very kind, curious and playful, occupying herself with novel items and exploring the world around her with all her senses. Her favorite enrichments, which are special treats, new toys or unfamiliar scents given to animals to break up their routines, include pool items to swim with and ice to crunch on. Fig has been keeping her keepers on their toes as they try to come up with exciting enrichments for her. Fig and Oscar are currently on display at the nature park’s otter habitat. Guests wanting to learn even more about river otters should attend a Keeper Talk, offered daily through Nov. 8. Keeper Talks about the mountain’s resident river otters take place at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the otter habitat. Learn more about Fig at www.grandfather.com/fig-the-river-otter.

Fall Insider Tips

The fall season on Grandfather Mountain is a favorite for many! Here are some insider tips for getting the most out of your mile-high excursion. n Book your tickets in advance at www.grandfather.com! Fall can be a busy time on the mountain and you don’t want to miss out. n Check the schedule of daily programs, included in admission, before your trip. n Take part in a Fall Color Ramble, a 30-minute guided walk with a park naturalist focused on the leaf change. These walks are scheduled for 1 p.m., Oct. 3 – 11, with potential dates added. n When is peak color? Leaves begin changing color at the highest elevations and gradually work down the slopes into the valleys over several weeks. Typically, the first fall colors appear on Grandfather Mountain in late September. Peak color toward the summit is usually early October. The lower sections of the park peak in mid-October. Find more tips at www.grandfather.com/fall.

...notes from the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

The nonprofit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation strives to inspire conservation of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For more information, visit www.grandfather.com. All photos courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Peak om Linville Fall View fr Animal

Painting

G R A N D FAT H E R N OT E S

Holiday Gift Ideas That Give Back

Grandfather Mountain offers unique gift ideas for loved ones that also support the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. Get your shopping done and feel good knowing your gifts are giving in more ways than one! n Adopt-an-Animal Looking for a gift that’s warm and fuzzy? While Grandfather Mountain’s resident animals are not for sale, the Adopt-an-Animal program is the next best thing. The program allows participants to symbolically adopt any of Grandfather Mountain’s furry or feathered residents, including black bears, river otters, cougars, bald eagles, elk and more. n Animal Art One of the most popular items in Grandfather’s gift shops is something truly unique—animal art painted by the mountain’s habitat animals! Find many designs from paw prints to abstract bursts of color. The animal artists of Grandfather Mountain use only non-toxic, washable paint. With each painting, you’ll receive a photo and facts about the artist. n Season Passes For a gift that keeps on giving, shoppers can purchase an annual membership to Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club. Bridge Club membership offers unlimited free admission to Grandfather Mountain for a year, exclusive discounts on and off the mountain, a Bridge Club car decal and more. Group passes are also available.

Autumn Notes . . . See more ideas at www.grandfather.com/shopping.

YONNI, the cartoon mascot for Grandfather Mountain’s Junior Naturalist Program

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Beech Mountain Hiking Trails Map

Elkin and Alleghany Rail Trail

Trail Reports: Autumn ‘26

T R A I L

R E P O R T S

By CML Staff Does your family enjoy hiking, running, biking, motoring, paddling, fishing, horseback riding, and exploring our region of the world? Follow our “Trail Reports” in each issue for some of the latest developments on trails and public lands, and to learn about opportunities throughout the area. Beech Mountain Guided Fall Hikes The Town of Beech Mountain boasts 27 miles of beautifully maintained hiking trails that wind through lush forests bursting with fall color, alongside babbling creeks and waterfalls, and up to breathtaking overlooks. With the mile-high Emerald Outback trail park and several other miles of maintained trails, exploring the mountain is a rewarding activity for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Prefer guided hikes? Enjoy hikes led by knowledgeable guides throughout the season, including on Thursday, October 1 at 10 a.m. This free guided hike, departing from the Buckeye Recreation Center, will take you along the Westerly Hills Trail. On October 15 at 10 a.m., a guide will lead hikers on the Emerald Outback Trails. This hike departs from the Public Parking Lot across from Town Hall. Guided hikes are approximately 1 ½ hours each—be sure to bring water and wear appropriate footwear. Find additional guided hike opportunities, trail descriptions, and a detailed trail map at beechmtn.com/hiking/. Forest Bathing and Trail Trekking in Elkin The Klondike Dam is a cherished landmark adjacent to Grassy Creek Vineyard, just north of Elkin, NC. A few steps from the tasting room at Grassy Creek, you’ll find the trailhead for the state’s first official “forest bathing” trail, which connects to a greater network of trails. The Forest Bathing trail loop is approximately one mile long, which allows hikers of all levels to appreciate one of the reasons the trail is so special—it showcases some lovely artwork characterizing scenes from the foothills region depicted in a massive mural. The mural was completed several years ago by Charlotte-based artist Eva Crawford; in the Klondike Dam Mural, she has masterly captured the essence of the region. The mural, spanning the length of the 100-year-old dam, seamlessly harmonizes with the Forest Bathing Trail and the surrounding environment. Nearby, in the heart of Elkin, head to Elkin Municipal Park to start an enjoyable walk (or bicycle ride) along the old Elkin & Alleghany

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Railroad bed to the Town of Elkin Reservoir, and beyond. This gentle stroll lets you stop and enjoy an array of fall wildflowers in bloom throughout the season. And there’s even more to explore in Elkin! In addition to these community trails, Elkin is the only place in North Carolina where three sanctioned trails converge. The Mountains to Sea Trail and the Yadkin River “blue water trail” are both North Carolina State sanctioned trails; the Overmountain Victory Trail is a Federally sanctioned trail. Learn more at exploreelkin.com and elkinvalleytrails.org. Find a Trail Buddy at Mitchell County Animal Rescue Looking for an enthusiastic walking buddy who can’t wait to experience the beautiful fall weather with you? The recently launched Trail Buddies program at Mitchell County Animal Rescue in Spruce Pine gives shelter dogs a much-needed break from the kennel while also helping them to socialize with new people and experience the great outdoors. Enjoy the perks of bonding with a furry friend, getting some fresh air and knowing you’re making a positive impact on their lives. Once you complete a “matchmaking form” at mitchellcountyanimalrescue.org/trailbuddies, simply schedule a time to pick up an “adorable and adoptable shelter dog” for some quality hangout time. Take your buddy on a hike, picnic, brewery visit, or other afternoon outing. Giving dogs a break from the shelter reduces stress, increases confidence, and helps them get adopted faster. “Whether you want a fun day out or a cozy sleepover with one of our shelter dogs, we’ve got you covered with two options—one for day outings and another for sleepovers or staycations (up to seven days)!” These outings also help connect shelter dogs with potential adopters. “Let’s give these pups the adventure they deserve!” mitchellcountyanimalrescue.org/trailbuddies New Initiatives at the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation The Blue Ridge Parkway is a favorite cycling and motor route of millions, with so many fun and educational stops along the way. The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s mission is “to preserve cultural heritage and inspire the next generation of land stewards”; with that mission in mind, the Foundation recently launched several initiatives aiming to expand educational opportunities in Parkway communities, protect sensitive mountain habitat, and help scientists collect data on wildlife. And they need your support!

Wetland Restoration on Parkway Lands, courtesy of Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation

Howard Knob Skybridge

Progress on the Boone Gorge Park Project Boone Gorge Park, a new community park under development along the Middle Fork Greenway (another Blue Ridge Conservancy project), is currently scheduled for completion by mid-2027. The 33acre tract features 2,000 feet of frontage along the Middle Fork New River and will include parking, a timber frame pavilion, restrooms, a one-mile trail, a boardwalk, wetlands, river access, and educational signage highlighting local Native American history. continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

R E P O R T S

Good News & Views up on Howard Knob High above the town of Boone and Appalachian State University—at 4,396 ft—you’ll discover Howard Knob Park, a charming county park atop Howard Knob Peak. The Park features a newly constructed ADA-accessible skybridge overlook that offers a panoramic view of downtown Boone, App State’s campus, and surrounding mountain peaks. The team who created the stunning skybridge includes Destination by Design (design and engineering), Stitch Design Shop (architecture), Areté Engineers (structural engineering), MBI Builders (construction), and Jordan Innovative Fabrication (fabrication). In addition to the skybridge walk, Howard Knob Park amenities include ADA parking, a tranquility garden, a variety of picnic areas, and portable restrooms. Howard Knob Park is open daily through October 20, from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and is located at 604 Howard Knob Rd., Boone, NC 28607 In other good news on the Knob, the Blue Ridge Conservancy (BRC)—after a 30-year effort—completed the purchase of 74 acres on the mountain, securing the property for hiking, rock climbing, and other public recreation, and protecting it from future development. This property adjoins Howard Knob Park and the Boone United Methodist Church property, increasing the contiguous protected property on Howard Knob by more than 140 percent. “Blue Ridge Conservancy is excited to reopen this historic climbing area and create additional hiking trails on the mountain, including the future location of the Northern Peaks State Trail,” said Eric Hiegl, BRC’s Senior Director of Land Protection and Conservation Planning. Read about their decades-long effort to save Howard Knob at blueridgeconservancy.org/howardknobstory.

T R A I L

Kids in Parks is a network of hiking, biking, paddling and disc golf trails outfitted with free activity guides for children and families. The goals behind these TRACK Trails are to encourage kids to be physically active and help them build meaningful connections with nature. Your support can help get more kids on more TRACK trails in several ways: Build a TRACK Trail—You can turn an existing trail into a familyfriendly TRACK Trail adventure. A contribution of $6,500 (per trail) will provide one park with a trailhead kiosk, four custom activity brochures designed to engage visitors in the natural or historic resources, a feature page on KidsinParks.com, and prizes for children who “track” their outdoor adventures through the web-app. Create a TRACK Trail Mini—TRACK Trail Minis ($2,500 per trail) are a perfect option for small parks or sites and offer all of the perks of the program’s standard TRACK Trails; however, the trailhead kiosks are smaller and feature just one self-guided brochure. Learn more at brpfoundation.org/initiatives/kids-in-parks/. Another initiative involves Wetland Restoration along the Parkway. Mountain bogs and wetlands are home to rare species like the bog turtle, swamp pink, and Virginia spiraea, but these vital habitats are disappearing from the landscape. You can help restore a critical wetland—the most significant bog turtle habitat known in the national park—while also providing flood protection, reducing erosion, and improving water quality for many other threatened and endangered species. Learn more at brpfoundation.org/initiatives/wetland-restoration/. One other initiative that will help protect Blue Ridge Parkway wildlife is the installment of Wildlife Cameras. The park’s remote wildlife camera initiative is a valuable way for scientists to survey the creatures who call the Parkway home. While larger mammals including bears and deer are usually the focus of candid photographs, biologists plan to install new cameras to capture the smaller animal residents, including mice, voles, chipmunks, and weasels. These monitoring systems will give park staff and citizen scientists the opportunity to take a closer look at the tiny creatures who thrive in sensitive habitats. Learn more at brpfoundation.org/ initiatives/wildlife-cameras/. “Your donations allow us to continue our mission of preservation, education, and outdoor fun. Join us in caring for our beloved Parkway!”

Walking Tours at Mill Camp Wines and Ciders

T R A I L

R E P O R T S

Debris along the Middle Fork New River, courtesy of MountainTrue

Boone Gorge Park Middle Fork Greenway

During Hurricane Helene, the park site and adjacent section of the Middle Fork New River sustained significant damage. According to Middle Fork Greenway (MFG) Director Wendy Patoprsty, “...there was so much debris from the hurricane—houses floated down and ‘exploded’ in here. . . heavy, big pieces of industrial sawmills—you name it, it was in [the river].” Several volunteer groups have been cleaning up the area since the hurricane, including students from App State. This past summer, the river stretch underwent a major clean-up effort by the MFG team in collaboration with MountainTrue, who removed over 9,000 pounds of debris. Once completed, Boone Gorge Park will connect to the Boone Greenway via the Watauga Medical Center. Watauga County will eventually own and maintain the park, ensuring it serves the community for generations to come. “Boone Gorge Park on the Middle Fork Greenway will be more than just a place to walk or ride—it’s an investment in our community’s health, economy, and quality of life,” said Braxton Eggers, Chairman of the Watauga County Board of Commissioners. “It connects neighbors, supports local businesses, and gives families a safe, beautiful space to enjoy the outdoors together.” Follow MFG news at facebook.com/middleforkgreenway, and at blueridgeconservancy.org. Follow MountainTrue’s work to safeguard clean water at mountaintrue.org. Walking Tours—from Farm to Vineyard to Table With the High Country being a hotspot for farms, orchards, pastures, vineyards, tree fields and other agricultural land and culinary hotspots, agritourism options for visitors abound. Over in Vilas, Shipley Farms offers scenic walking tours for visitors to learn what makes their products stand out, “and see first-hand how responsible farming practices make all the difference for our animals, our environment, and the flavor of our beef.” You’ll also travel back in time through the Shipleys’ history of farming in the Appalachians and learn about how it’s been done for over 150 years. During the tour, Farmer Bob will even point out some “ancient” maples on the farm, including one that has been there since before the American Revolution! shipleyfarmsbeef.com/book-a-farm-tour Over in the Boone area, Mill Camp Wines & Ciders offers a rural escape where handcrafted wines and ciders meet the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. On Mondays from 12 to 1 p.m., enjoy

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YMCA Reindeer Run

Farm Tours at Shipley Farms

a free outdoor walking tour of Mill Camp Farm and get a behindthe-scenes look at the land, the cellar, and seasonal happenings on the farm. “This is a great way to experience Mill Camp beyond the tasting room.” RSVPs are appreciated (but not required) by calling/ texting 828-222-3992. Mill Camp is located at 1584 Tom Jackson Rd, Boone. millcampboone.com A Taste of the High Country Walking Food Tour in West Jefferson is a blend of food, history and fun. A local guide will lead you and your group (size is limited to 10 participants) to five delicious tasting stops on this 2¼-hour walking adventure. Not only will you taste some wonderful food, you’ll learn about many cultural insights and historical tales along the way. Tours are held every Saturday through November 7. highcountryfoodtours.com On page 118, see our special “Through the Lens” feature on Agritourism in the High Country. Start a New Holiday Tradition with Family Fun Runs The YMCA of the High Country offers fun fitness opportunities all year round. This holiday season, two fun runs are on the calendar! Whether you’re a seasoned runner, casual walker, or simply looking for some enjoyment time with loved ones, these events are the perfect way to start new holiday traditions. Over at the Mitchell County YMCA, kick off your Thanksgiving Day by participating in their inaugural Turkey Trot 5K. The event takes place on Thursday, November 26, with a 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk starting at 8 a.m. and the Turkey Trot 5K beginning at 8:30 a.m. “Not planning to run or walk? Volunteer instead! We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help with our inaugural Mitchell County YMCA Thanksgiving Day 5K. Join us in making this a wonderful community tradition!” Learn more and register at ymcaavery. com/event/2026-turkey-trot/. Over in Banner Elk, grab your inflatable antlers (and running shoes) to join in the 17th Annual YMCA Reindeer 5K Run, sponsored by Williams YMCA of Avery County. The run takes place during Banner Elk’s annual Small Town Christmas event, Saturday, December 5. Meet at Tate Evans Park in downtown Banner Elk beginning at 8 a.m. for check-in, with the race beginning at 9 a.m. “This race is for everyone—bring the whole family! You may run, jog or walk the course, whichever you choose.” Refreshments will be available. All proceeds from the race go towards the YMCA’s Y Access program,

The Snake

The Shady Valley Country Store

A Future Community Nature Park at Jonas Ridge Bog The Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina is a Morgantonbased land trust that works to protect natural landscapes, farms and forests in eight WNC counties. Since 1995, Foothills Conservancy has protected over 74,000 acres, “Forever and For the Benefit of All.” That includes the 17-acre Jonas Ridge Bog, rare Southern Appalachian wetland habitat that is home to wild cranberries, bog turtles, and other unique flora and fauna. Located at 3,400 feet, and bordered by the Pisgah Loop Scenic Byway in Burke County, this sensitive habitat will forever be protected—yet, one day you’ll be able to explore it!

Linville Falls Connector Trail The USDA Forest Service, in partnership with The G5 Trail Collective (g5trailcollective.org), recently finished multiple Helene recovery projects to restore access and create connectivity to the popular Linville Falls Trail System. The new Linville Falls Connector Trail links the Linville Cabin Trailhead and the Linville Falls Trailhead off Old Hwy 105. This three-quarters mile, easy hiking trail through the beautiful Pisgah National Forest improves connectivity to parking, restrooms and visitor information at the Linville Cabin for those visiting Linville Falls. And thanks to the hard work of the National Park Service, Blue Ridge Parkway access to the Falls and the Plunge Basin Trail is open again.

Klondike Dam Mural

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

R E P O R T S

Just Can’t Wait to Get on the Road Again Ready for a road trip? Fall is a fantastic time to “take the snake.” Known by sports car and motorcycle enthusiasts as “The Snake 421,” this famous 37-mile stretch of U.S. Route 421 between Mountain City and Bristol, Tennessee, features 489 curves and crosses three mountains through Shady Valley. As motorists traverse the hairpin switchbacks, they travel through Johnson County, Tennessee—popular side stops include downtown Mountain City, with its vibrant arts scene, and the Shady Valley Country Store, located midroute in Shady Valley. The Country Store serves as the unofficial headquarters, or the “Home of The Snake,” where riders and drivers can grab some good food, view an assortment of history displays, and pick up Snake-themed memorabilia. thesnake421.com For road-tripping in the High Country of North Carolina, check out the updated Road Trip Fall 2026 map. This user-friendly map details a 50-mile loop from Banner Elk to Grandfather Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone and Valle Crucis. Find 500 stops along the way, including plenty of locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants. Things to do include an abundance of hiking trails, Tweetsie Railroad, Mast General Store, Apple Hill Farm, Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, zip lines, and scenic lift rides at our ski resorts. This route includes US 221 (Little Parkway Scenic Byway)—Blue Ridge Parkway rebuilding projects take a break in early October. Download a free copy at facebook.com/visitbannerelk, and get additional road trip ideas at highcountryroadtrip.com.

In partnership with Foothills Conservancy, Burke County Public Parks is working on a long-range project for a community nature park to be located at the Jonas Ridge Bog site. The future park will include walking trails, boardwalks, observation platforms, and interpretive signage that educates visitors about this special habitat. This low-impact development of an interpretive loop trail, with scenic overlooks, will be managed through long-term environmental planning to prevent habitat damage to the local bog turtles and pitcher plants. Follow progress at burkenc.org and foothillsconservancy.org. Also check out “Blue Ridge Explorers” on page 83 to learn about the mountain bogs of Shady Valley, TN, that are already accessible to the public. Editor’s Note: Several of these special mountain bogs also exist in Avery, Ashe (Mountain Bogs National Wildlife Refuge), and Alleghany counties in NC, some of which are officially protected by Land Trusts; however, as of this writing, there are currently no known plans for public access to these wetlands.

T R A I L

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A Family Affair—Charles, Helen, and Kenneth McQueen

Hemlock

Shady Valley Cranberries

Photo by Gabby Lynch, The Nature Conservancy

Orchard Bog Preserve

The Wild Cranberry Bogs of Shady Valley By Tamara S. Randolph

A New Era of Protection With an eye toward protecting this truly unique terrain—once at risk of being lost forever—TNC purchased its first nature preserve in Shady Valley in 1978 with the quarter-acre Jess Jenkins Cranberry Bog. “And today there are 850 acres and four preserves,” Kenneth notes. His family, in the Valley since the 1830s, has been involved with The Nature Conservancy’s local endeavors from the very beginning. Kenneth’s father, Charles, served as the very first Preserve Manager from 1998 to 2015. He then handed the reins over to Kenneth, a retired agricultural science teacher who, like many full-time mountain residents, wears various professional hats: Preserve Manager, businessman, farmer, Shady Valley Fire Chief, environmental educator, and Skyline Board Member. Kenneth shares with me an overview of TNC’s Orchard Bog Preserve, the most popular of the four preserves in the area. He says that several thousand people come to this mountain bog each year to walk and explore the Preserve’s wetlands. Today, the Orchard Bog Preserve is home to the celebrated wild cranberries as well as more than two dozen rare species, including the protected bog turtle. Explorers will discover several beaver dams, a visible reminder of the importance of beavers in wetland ecology, along with evidence of black bears and deer among the ferns, sedges, and grasses. Golden eagles, migratory shorebirds, songbirds, and wild turkeys attract numerous birders every year. Fall wildflowers

are abundant, including milkweed, Joe Pye weed, goldenrod and asters. White pines and aging hemlocks stand tall in this flat valley. As lush and biodiverse as the Preserve is today, McQueen explains that these wetlands were drained back in the 1950s and ‘60s in an attempt to provide more acreage of farmable land. “But much of it stayed too wet anyway,” he says. So, in the early ‘00s, realizing the true value of wetlands, the overall land management strategy shifted—clean water and ecological balance became more of a priority. With the presence of The Nature Conservancy, and a proud and supportive community, heavy farming in this valley is a practice of the past. However, TNC does lightly stock their local preserves with cattle and hay fields, thus serving as an example that wetlands in their natural form and agriculture can coexist. Grazing cattle even help control non-native invasive Reed Canary grass that thrives in these wetland habitats and displaces native flora. Visiting the Orchard Bog Located a little over a mile from TNC’s Shady Valley office, The Orchard Bog Preserve welcomes the public for self-tours 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. That said, guided tours can certainly enrich the bog experience. McQueen facilitates educational tours regularly for students from App State, ETSU, and other schools and programs in the region, including high school 4-H programs and homeschool groups. Perhaps one of the best opportunities to catch a guided tour of this rare high elevation bog is during the Shady Valley Cranberry Festival held every October as the wild cranberries ripen. This year, on Saturday, October 10, festival goers can join Kenneth and other TNC folks to learn more about the 150 acres of wetlands and farmland within the Orchard Bog Preserve—and you’ll love sampling the bright scarlet berries, which McQueen says “pack more zing” than the cranberries we typically put on our Thanksgiving table. Thanks to decades of protection and restoration by The Nature Conservancy—working hand in hand with Shady Valley residents—today’s visitors can explore a mountain-wetland ecosystem found in only a few places in the Southeast. And what a gift it is to have locals like the McQueen family advocate for the land through their deep connections with The Nature Conservancy. “We are the eyes and ears of this community,” says McQueen. “It has been a good relationship.” Tamara Randolph, CML’s Managing Editor, is a certified NC Environmental Educator and certified Blue Ridge Naturalist. Reach her at tamara@NCexplorers.com. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

BLUE RIDGE EXPLORERS

Driving along “The Snake,” a famously curvy section of Highway 421 between Mountain City and Shady Valley, TN, our vehicle peaks at nearly 4,000 feet before descending toward an expansive valley. As the crow flies, our destination is not far from Mountain City and Boone in one direction, and Johnson City in the other. But by the time the snaky path finally straightens out and you reach the Shady Valley crossroads, you sense remoteness. “We are centrally located in the middle of nowhere,” says Kenneth McQueen, Shady Valley Preserve Manager for The Nature Conservancy (TNC). But, as he explains, being in the middle of nowhere has its advantages—this quiet region is one of Southern Appalachia’s most ecologically important areas, much of which is now protected. According to McQueen, Shady Valley is a rare natural landscape, “a cool, bog-rich valley shaped by the last Ice Age.” Our planet’s last glacial cycle was a period when ice sheets covered much of northeast N. America, and boreal and sub-alpine plants and animals were pushed south. And when the ice sheets retreated, unique landscapes, like the sphagnum/cranberry peat bogs of Shady Valley, took shape.

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“Eagles can inspire people to care, and that care will then extend to the other types of wildlife that are also in need of our help.” —Savanna Hartman, 2023 Lees-McRae graduate, Pre-Veterinary Medicine —Image: Tallinn, an honorary ambassador at May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, photo by Nannette White

An American Success Story By Paul Laurent

DDT was great at controlling mosquitoes and agricultural pests, but it was so effective because it massacred every invertebrate it touched, including fireflies, butterflies, and many other vital pollinators. It also accumulates in the food chain. When it gets into the water, the tiny fish and invertebrates get only a small dose, but the larger fish eat lots of small fish and end up with a much higher concentration. These fish are eaten by eagles, who then accumulate even higher amounts over time. DDT is fat-soluble, which means it doesn’t break down easily, and instead of being excreted from the body, it is stored in fatty tissues for a lifetime. In birds like bald eagles, pelicans, peregrine falcons, cormorants, and many others, DDT caused a calcium deficiency that led to eggshells being incredibly thin, and likely to crack when incubated. With virtually no eagles being born for years, the population nationwide plummeted. Fortunately, people figured out what was happening. DDT was finally banned in 1972, thanks in part to Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring, a world-changing book published ten years earlier. Captive breeding programs led to eagles being released into Lake Mattamuskeet near the NC coast in 1982. In 1999 the first pair of bald eagles nested at Lake James—this was the first western NC nesting in decades! We now have at least 32 active nests in the mountains, and bald eagles have been reported in every county, one of the great conservation success stories. While eagles have recovered well, they are still at risk, partially due to hunting—but not in the way you might think. It turns out Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

BIRDING

Standing on the beach at Lake James State Park in the fall could be as close to a perfect beach day that you can find in North Carolina. The water is blue, trees whisper in the wind, and the leaves are changing to stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow. They aren’t palm trees, but the temperature is in the 70s. You can see the majestic mountains in the distance. Kids splash in the shallows while boats zip by in deeper waters. People fish the sheltered coves, and hiking trails abound in the rolling foothills. If you keep a sharp eye skyward, you’re likely to see a bald eagle soar overhead. Our national bird is quite distinctive as an adult, though juveniles go through five years of molting various patterns of mottled white and brown before settling into the traditional white head and tail look. You can tell a young bald eagle from the more common turkey vultures by the eagle’s larger head, and their tendency of holding their wings flat, rather than the ‘V’ shaped dihedral turkey vultures favor. Young eagles will also never have the solid light gray along the back edge of the wings; the mottled pattern of a young eagle is usually on the middle of the wing and the body, depending on how old the eagle is. Bald eagles are pretty common throughout the mountains these days. They can be found along almost any body of water, especially if it’s stocked with trout! Countless anglers and paddlers have seen one swoop low along the river—it’s one of the most amazing experiences in our mountains. This now common sight wasn’t always so common. Bald eagles were wiped out in our mountains in the mid-1900s due to hunting from farmers who feared the birds would eat their chickens (which they almost never do), and especially due to the pesticide DDT.

Courtesy of US Fish and Wildlife Service

Nesting bald eagles,

BIRDING

by Tom Koerner-USFWS

that bald eagles are often scavengers, and if a hunter uses lead ammunition, the left-over parts of an animal carcass can have tiny fragments of the lead bullet or shot left behind. Lead-poisoning is now one of the leading causes of bald eagle mortality. It has also been shown to affect families of hunters who use lead ammunition, especially children. If hunters replaced lead ammunition with the much safer—and widely available—copper or steel rounds, leadpoisoning could be easily eliminated. The bald eagle’s propensity to scavenge brings me to one of the more interesting historical anecdotes of our country’s founding. The bald eagle is among the largest birds of prey in North America. The golden eagle is about the same size, and actually far more impressive as a hunter, but golden eagles live in Europe too, so the founders were going for something more geographically distinctive. With the limited printing abilities of those days, golden eagles also mostly just looked like a big, brown bird. Benjamin Franklin is often credited with pushing for the wild turkey to be our national symbol, but that is taken largely out of context. The eagle was badly drawn as the symbol of the Society of the Cincinnati (named after Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, the Roman farmer-statesman), an organization of former officers from the revolution. Membership was hereditary, which Franklin thought kind of defeated the whole reason for fighting a war to get rid of a hereditary monarchy and rule by lords and dukes and such. The bald eagle in the emblem also looked much like a turkey. In response, Franklin wrote a now famous letter in 1784 (eight years after the Declaration of Independence), addressed to his daughter, not intending it to be widely circulated after his death (though I suspect Franklin would have found it quite amusing). Franklin wrote, “Bald Eagle...is a Bird of bad moral Character. He does not get his Living honestly…[he] is too lazy to fish for himself.” I spent ten years leading kayak tours on the coast of SC; I watched a pair of bald eagles make a nest in Murrell’s Inlet and fledge chicks out of that nest every year. I never once saw either of them catch their own fish! Their entire livelihood in summer was based on mugging hardworking ospreys and stealing the fish they worked so hard to catch. By contrast, Franklin wrote that the wild turkey was “a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America...He is besides, though a little vain & silly, a Bird of Courage.”

88— Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Since all of this is taken out of context regarding the origins of our emblem, I would like to step back to Franklin’s actual idea for our national symbol—the timber rattlesnake. The rattlesnake is another species (an entire two genera) native only to the Americas, so the distinction from Europe is clear. To quote Franklin, a rattlesnake “never begins an attack, nor, when once engaged, ever surrenders.” He praised the snake for its “true courage” and “magnanimity.” These magnificent creatures are vital to our ecosystems—they are one of the best tick-controls on earth! They are also truly unaggressive and strike only after giving ample warning. There is a reason most venomous snake bites in the U.S. occur on the hand or wrist! The rattlesnake as a national symbol actually dates back far earlier than the eagle. In 1754 Franklin made his famous ‘unite or die’ cartoon, featuring a rattlesnake separated into 13 pieces, each labeled as one of the colonies, with the words “Join, or die,” recognizing the need for all Americans to unite. In 1775—over 20 years later, but before we won our independence—the Gadsden Flag was introduced, featuring a coiled rattlesnake on a yellow background with the warning “Dont Tread on Me.” This flag later became one of the flags of the Continental Army, meaning that we were peaceful when left alone. As we reflect on the 250th anniversary of this experiment in democracy, I would like you to consider the majestic eagle, the plucky turkey, and the wise rattlesnake. Maybe together these three creatures, all unique to our continent, paint a more perfect union of the America we strive to achieve. Timber Rattlesnake,

by Grayson Smith-USFWS

Gadsden flag rattlesnake

EYE-TO-EYE WITH EAGLES Here in the High Country, you can learn more about bald eagles by visiting the Grandfather Mountain attraction. Your admission ticket allows you to participate in “Keeper Talks,” daily programs that invite visitors to get to know the animals that reside in Grandfather Mountain’s Wildlife Habitats. Through November 8, join park naturalists at 12:30 p.m. daily and meet “Griffin” and “Leroy,” two bald eagles who survived past injuries and now call Grandfather Mountain home. Learn more at www. grandfather.com/eagles/. Over at the May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at Lees-McRae College, there’s occasionally a recovering bald eagle or two, in addition to dozens of other injured or orphaned wild animals in their care at any given time. Last season, one bald eagle (Patient #0442) was treated for poisoning after “choosing to consume a meal at the landfill that was tainted with sedation drugs [phenobarbital],” staff explained. “In a coma on arrival, we almost lost him, more than once.” Fortunately, the eagle was able to be rehabilitated, and staff and students released him back into the wild— you can view a video of the release (and witness many other success stories) on their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/MayWildlifeRehab.

Grandfather Mountain Eagle Habitat, photo by Nannette White

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Brandon York

A Newbie’s Introductory Guide for Exploring the Appalachian Trail By Steve York

o…you’re thinking about hiking the Appalachian Trail for the first time, but not sure how and when to start. Great! A few basic tips on the “how” are herein. But, as for “when”? Well, you couldn’t find a more splendid time than Autumn. Temps are cooler, air is crisper, insects are fewer, leaf colors are spectacular, and the Trail offers an immersion into nature that is uniquely inspiring. In its entirety, the Appalachian Trail crosses fourteen states from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Mount Katahdin, Maine. It spans 2,200 miles along the crest of the Appalachian Mountains. A “thru-hike” of the “Trail”—or A.T. for short—can take six months or more… and that’s just one way. But this feature is especially for “first timers,” those who have never done any serious hiking on the A.T. or other major mountain trails. And we’re noting Trail access locations accessible from this immediate area of northwestern North Carolina, eastern Tennessee and southwestern Virginia. If you have some hiking experience, you can always tackle your first A.T. trek alone—just make sure someone knows where you are. However, if a “newbie” (and there’s no shame in that), it can be wise to start with a companion, join a small group of knowledgeable hikers, or even book a guided Trail tour. After all,

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there’s safety in numbers, and you’ll build some endearing friendships along the way. By the way, as long as health allows, age isn’t a restriction. There are hundreds of Trail explorers—including newbies— that are well into their 70s, 80s, and older. In fact, it isn’t unusual to come upon small groups who range from teens to seniors, all moving together with a common commitment to mutual support and optimum enjoyment. There are even professionally guided services on designated parts of the A.T. for those with physical limitations and other special needs. Either way, you should at least do some serious homework on what to wear, what to bring, where to start, and what safety precautions are critical. And there are plenty of books, pamphlets and websites that go deep into the subject. Fortunately, we have several area resources with both expertise and gear who can get you prepared and safely on your way. Three well-known ones include Footsloggers, Mast General Store, and— just over the N.C. state line in Virginia— Damascus Outfitters. Footsloggers has four locations in Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and Banner Elk. Local Mast General Store locations are in downtown Boone and Valle Crucis. Damascus Outfitters is one of three partner operations that in-

clude Adventure Damascus and Sundog Outfitters. We asked long-time employees at these outfitters about their stores’ experts—people who can provide newbies with reliable information regarding gear. As for essential hiking and camping gear, Sheri Moretz with Mast General Store points to Lloyd Blackwell and Kimberly Tevepaugh at their Annex store in Valle Crucis. But Moretz also noted that it can be smart to start from the bottom up. “It sounds like a small thing, but socks are very important for a successful outing on the Trail no matter how long you’re going to be out. So, for all footwear, including boots, shoes, and socks, our goto experts would be Gina Diggs, Jim McGuire and Seth Powell at our Original Mast Store [also in Valle Crucis].” Brian Baldwin of Footsloggers complimented Moretz’s point adding, “First advice to a newbie is get good footwear and put in time on the Trail (or any nearby trails) so you can get your legs ready for bigger endeavors. We also pride ourselves on being a comprehensive shop with info, insights, proper gear selection, and directions,” he shared. “Depending on how well I know the area, I can also suggest certain campsites; plus, we get lots of questions about bears, safety, food storage, and first aid. As a general rule, newbies tend to take too much. Keep-

Grayson Highlands VA

Come spring, sections of the AT are well known for their stunning Catawba rhododendrons and Mountain Laurels

Todd Bush and Michael Darling on Mt. Katahdin, Maine

ing it simple is the best rule with a small amount of key equipment.” Michael Wright of Damascus Outfitters agreed, saying, “Don’t overpack. Ounces equal pounds on the trail.” He also noted, “Damascus is known as Trail Town USA, and the A.T. runs right through it near mile marker 470.7. So, we are often the first stop for people looking to try the Trail. We offer a full range of the best gear, trail guides, and maps for all trail hikers, plus we provide plenty of free advice based on our own 28 years of experience.” He said that for a less challenging starter hike, the nearby picturesque Virginia Creeper Trail is always a great choice. That leads us back to basic starter gear recommendations. Besides a cellphone, charger, and a walking stick, begin with a compass, foldable map and guidebook for the trail you’re choosing. Review and mark key scenic spots plus campsites the night before. For a day hike, a 15- to 30-liter backpack should do, and a 40- to 60-liter backpack for one or more days of overnight camping. A “fanny pack” is also ideal for brief side trips away from base camp. Baldwin at Footsloggers noted the wisdom of including a comprehensive first aid kit, headlamp, ample water and water filtration, comfortable clothes (including waterproof overwear), and a reli-

able pocketknife. As for food, typical trail foods include dehydrated meals, energy bars, and nuts. If camping one or more nights, a twoperson/three-season rated dome tent provides extra storage space and is a safe bet during Autumn, especially with weather variances. Along with that, include a compact LED hanging lantern and a good sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, along with an insulated sleeping pad for extra comfort. Cooking systems usually consist of small backpacking stoves, lightweight cookware and utensils which easily assemble and break down for repacking. Some hiker/campers also like to save time by pre-cooking simple foods such as rice and pasta, and packing non-perishable sandwiches that fit easily into zip bags. And don’t forget a reliable fire starter for both cooking and overnight campfires (where allowed). Along with stormproof matches, butane lighters and ferro rods, there are many tinder options, from pine resin sticks to fire cubes to petroleum jelly cotton balls. As for campsites, many are often marked on hiking maps and guidebooks. Hint: In areas where fires are permitted, gather kindling and firewood (from the ground only) soon after picking your site. As for Trail access locations, there are several…and local professional photogra-

pher extraordinaire Todd Bush of Banner Elk knows them all. He’s hiked major portions of the Trail with friends several times, including the northern-most point of Mt. Katahdin in Maine. He’s even hiked portions of the Himalayas. “Carver’s Gap above the town of Roan Mountain at the North Carolina/Tennessee state line is not only easy to get to with relatively gentle parts of the trail ideal for beginners, but also gives experiences of unique geology of the Appalachian Balds such as Hump Mountain. Plus, it offers long range vista views,” noted Bush. “The Mount Rogers, Virginia, area, specifically around Grayson Highlands State Park, is another ideal A.T. access point, as is the East Tennessee side of nearby Watauga Lake,” he added. So, if you’re ready to hike the Appalachian Trail for the first time, get to know the local regulations, observe the “Leave No Trace” outdoor ethic, respect other hikers’ desire for silence and space, learn about Trail Angels, and feel free to contact any of the above outfitters. Who knows? One day you may join the legendary list of “thru-hikers” with memories and friendships you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Note: Part of the A.T. by the Virginia Creeper Trail in Virginia is closed until sometime next year due to Hurricane Helene. The official re-route is just outside of Damascus. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

92 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Special Events & Catering: Corporate Events, Weddings, VIP Dining Parties

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Men and women often lived in temporary houses made of boxcars while railroads were being constructed, like those pictured here in Linville Gap. (Archives of Appalachia)

Banner Elk, October 1939: Ginseng and Galax were two local crops plucked from the forest and sold for profit.

(State Archives of North Carolina)

The Cranberry Iron Mines was once a major employer in the High Country. (Caldwell Heritage Museum)

Obsolete Jobs in the High Country By Michael C. Hardy

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the jobs. The large sawmills, like the ones in Linville and Shull’s Mill, had their own crews. There were men who graded or inspected the lumber, stacked the lumber, ran the saw, and drove wagons; “barn bosses” that tended to horses; engineers, electricians, and blacksmiths who kept the machinery operational; and waterboys who delivered water. Most of the timber could be transferred to the Linville River Railway or East Tennessee and Western North Carolina (ET&WNC) Railroad for transportation farther west. These railroads had all their own employees. There were firemen, brakemen, conductors, and engineers with every train, plus crews whose sole job was to take care of the track. These were often called section crews, and they were assigned to various sections. Added to these were station agents, clerks, mail clerks, common laborers, foremen, and superintendents. The flood of 1940 destroyed the tracks of the Linville River Railway, and the entire railroad between Cranberry and Boone was abandoned. The ET&WNC that ran from east Tennessee to Cranberry survived until 1950 when the tracks were removed. All of those various jobs were lost. Towns grew up in some places with the band sawmills that processed the lumber before being loaded and shipped out. Shull’s Mill is a great example. There were doctors, merchants, clerks, cobblers, tailors, a flour mill, corn mill, chain maker, boarding house, barbershop, lace knitter, night watchman, butcher, and a hospital. The railroad supported more than just the logging industry. Iron ore from the Cranberry mines was what initially brought the train into the area in the 1880s. The mines employed miners, laborers, a printer, time-keepers, air drill operators, machinists, blacksmiths, electricians, firemen to maintain the steam engines, and various supervisors. Like the company town at Shull’s Mill, Cranberry had a hospital. The mines closed in 1929, never to be worked in large-scale operations again. The mica industry survived longer. A dozen or so men listed their occupation as mica miners in the greater Plumtree area in 1880. By 1920, there were not just mica miners, but mica cutters, mica sorters, and workers in the mica mill. The mica industry was in a slump in the 1930s but was revived during World War II as mica was a vital strategic mineral used in radar and radio equipment, aircraft engines, and lenses for goggles. After the 1960s, the industry again declined, and it became cheaper to import mica from overseas. There are no active mica mines currently in the area. Continued on next page

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We live in a changing society. Jobs that were once a staple of our society have been automated or are now done by AI. While we lament the loss of this interaction, the loss of jobs here in the High Country is nothing new. For example, in the 1920s, there were four different facilities in Watauga County alone that manufactured cheese, and at least two more in Avery County. Neither of these places have facilities where local farmers can manufacture cheese for the commercial market in 2026. Only Ashe County still commercially makes cheese. The High Country had an agricultural base in the 1880s. Most people were farmers, some producing crops for the consumer market, while others were subsistence farmers. In 1880, the railroad had yet to make an inroad into the area. Jobs that were common then that no longer exist include being a wagon wright, watch maker, saddler, boot and shoe maker, blacksmith, broom-maker, shingle maker, collar maker, coat maker, grist mill operator, and chain maker. Farming continued to be a major source of employment in the forty years after 1880, but something had changed. Coming from Tennessee, the railroad reached Cranberry in 1882. Eventually, it reached Boone in 1918. The access to the railroad brought an outlet for locally produced commodities, while at the same time, allowed goods from the outside to flow in. For example, Henry Von Cannon opened the first Ford dealership in the area in the 1920s. The cars were delivered via the train, with final assembly being done by Von Cannon’s staff. While farming was the single greatest occupation, working at one of the three major lumber operations in the area was the primary opportunity for employment outside the farm in Avery and Watauga counties in the 1920s. The major logging companies that produced hundreds of jobs were the Boone Fork Lumber Company and the Whiting Lumber Company in Shull’s Mill; the Linville Lumber Company, Linville; and the H. L. White Lumber Company near Elk River Falls. The jobs were multifaceted. Logging crews, often based in camps, cut the trees, at times using tramways to load the logs on waiting railcars. These logging crews had their own sawyers, wagon drivers, cooks, and firemen (also called stokers) who tended the steam engines that operated the logging equipment. Each of these lumber companies had its own logging railroads, with engines and cars manned by engineers, the fireman, and other maintenance crews. They oversaw not only the trains, but the tracks as well. The logging trains would lay a temporary track to a stand of timber, cut the timber, then pull the tracks up once they finished

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Every community once had a grist mill. —Vilas 1938 (State Archives of North Carolina)

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Another lost occupation is that of the traveling salesman. In the 1920s, Griffie Norris was listed as a traveling medicine salesman. Frank Robbins was a traveling shoe salesman. At least two Watauga County citizens dealt in “crude drugs.” Grant Wilcox founded the Wilcox Drug Company in 1900 in Boone, bringing medicinal herbs like ginseng, witch hazel, and chestnut bark from local families and general stores, packaging the items and shipping them out. There are many jobs that are still around, but in a different form. We don’t have steam shovel operators any longer, but we do have various heavy equipment operators. Brooms are now made in factories. Like blacksmiths, every 1920s community seemed to have a house carpenter or two. Now, we have sub-contractors. There are still a couple of small saw mills, but the industry is nothing like it was 100 years ago. We no longer have waggoners and teamsters, but plenty of semi-trucks ply the highways. People locally no longer heat with coal, so there are no coal depositories like the one that was once in Elk Park. As jobs and society continue to change, it is good to slow down from time to time and reflect on those jobs of the past.

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Fran Davis and jewelry boxes

Amy Crabbe with Joan Lunden

Prizewinner Holly D’Addurno

Celebrity Speaks on How to One-Up the Fear of Aging at Power of the Purse Fundraiser Story and photos by Gail Greco

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“Seventy is the new 50,” she added, urging her listeners to stay vibrant. “Maintain female friendships; be socially engaged and passionate about life. Keep learning. Adapt with renewed purpose however simple.” And from her book, she paraphrased messages such as: “Slowing down means showing up in different ways. You don’t have to chase the next big thing to keep growing. Still dream. Still do, but just with a different perspective.” Many made the Lunden appearance possible, including Linville’s Chris Petti and Mary Bickers. King Street Flowers & Gifts provided centerpieces to all 50 luncheon tables. Major business sponsors included Monkees of Blowing Rock, Mast General Store, Chick-fil-A, and Bickers Consulting Group. Dozens of attendees took a chance on a grand prize by donating $100 each for a yellow gift-wrapped box containing an unknown piece of David Yurman or Kendra Scott jewelry. Holly D’Addurno won the top prize—a gemstone necklace! Last year Laura Linney, star of movies, Netflix’s Ozark series, and the familiar voiceover for PBS Masterpiece Theater—who has family roots in Boone—spoke on behalf of the Fund, raising similar grant monies for some 27 local agencies. The hardest thing for her as a woman, Lunden told the Power of the Purse audience, was not what she had to go through breaking the barriers for women to be TV news anchors, but, “When I had cancer, I learned the greatest lesson of how important it is to let people who love you, love you!” There’s definitely a lot of that going around in the High Country, as WFBR—for one—proves every year. Learn more at wfbrnc.org.

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mid-September, brings the organization’s total giving this year to $275,000. Also included were sales from Lunden’s new book, Joan: Life Beyond the Script, a memoir and her 11th bestseller. Sales were handled by FireLight Book & Candle (Blowing Rock), which donated a portion of the proceeds. Lunden said hers was the first book to include QR (quick response) codes for accessing videos referring to passages in the book. One video illustrates her efforts to break the glass ceiling in TV news dominated by older men, including by bravely being a first to breastfeed on set. Another showcases her dramatic battle with aggressive breast cancer, fearlessly posing bald for a 2014 cover of People magazine. Yet another link shows a meeting with federal officials regarding a national mandate on breast density testing. Lunden is credited with persuading the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to update the Mammography Quality Standards Act, requiring medical facilities to notify patients regarding their breast tissue density and possible further observation with ultrasound. “If I had not had that advanced testing, I may not be here talking to you today,” she told luncheon attendees. “Don’t fear aging, embrace it by practicing reinvention,” was the focus of the 76-year-old mother-of-seven’s conversational keynote, moderated by former Charlotte news anchor Molly Grantham. “No one gets to tell you when your best days are behind you. You decide that,” Lunden emphasized, talking about resilience. And in her book, she preaches, “You don’t want to come this far to only come this far.

During the 20 years that trailblazing journalist Joan Lunden co-anchored ABC-TV’s Good Morning America, viewers watched her by the millions every weekday. Impressive. But during a fundraiser appearance in Boone recently, the former awardwinning news and talk show host told her live audience of 400, “It’s amazing all of you coming together here today.” While noting how Lunden’s given many speeches over the years, she singled out this event, calling it “a most extraordinary gathering!” Proceeds from this “gathering,” the annual Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge (WFBR) Power of the Purse fundraiser luncheon at Appalachian State University, are being distributed in October to nonprofit programs that serve women and girls in Ashe, Avery, and Watauga counties. “Joan Lunden was sensing a passion, energized by hundreds of influential and generous women participating in this event,” noted the Fund’s Executive Director Amy Crabbe. “From ticket sales to donations and sponsorship, we sent a powerful message about who we are in the High Country. Our speaker could see and feel the positive energy in the room.” Equally astonishing to Lunden (who lives in Connecticut and Maine) was the High Country setting. “It’s a ‘wow.’ Natural beauty...the mountains, shops, restaurants...this area is breathtaking,” she told CML during a private patrons’ dinner the night before at the Linville home of prominent community leader and philanthropist Frances Magruder. More than $160,000 was raised, and, coupled with more from WFBR’s annual Bourbon Under the Blue Ridge fundraiser held at Chetola Resort (Blowing Rock) in

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Community & Local Business News . . read all about it!

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Community & Local Business News

App State’s Team Sunergy Secures First-place Finish in 2026 American Solar Challenge Appalachian State University’s solar vehicle racing team, Team Sunergy, earned a first-place finish in the multi-occupant vehicle (MOV) category at the 2026 Electrek American Solar Challenge (ASC). Competing against an international field, the team secured its spot in the cross-country road race with a second-place finish in the Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix. Traveling along Highway 66 from Minneapolis to Amarillo, TX, in a significant test of “Autumn,” Team Sunergy demonstrated it could build an improved two-person race cruiser from the wheels up—once again employing the teamwork, strategy and endurance needed to overcome challenges on the long road to the podium. Autumn, a 660-pound vehicle built of carbon fiber, covered nearly 1,830 miles with an average speed of 31.7 mph in the ASC, held July 25–August 1. The team’s energy efficiency score was well above its competitors, and Team Sunergy also received the MOV Practicality Award for a vehicle most comparable to a standard car. ASC contestants were scored on distance completed, efficiency metrics and practicality. A hallmark of student-led experiential learning at App State, Team Sunergy draws students from across numerous disciplines and has helped its graduates jump-start promising careers. “Team Sunergy members learn team dynamics, leadership and strategy, but they also find a home centered around community and shared endeavor— where grit and determination carry these talented problem-solvers to consistent victories,” said App State’s Dr. Christine Ogilvie Hendren, vice chancellor of research and innovation.

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“Being part of Team Sunergy means contributing to a truly one-of-a-kind engineering project—it has been one of the most impactful experiences of my college career,” said Ariana Jones, who graduated from App State this spring with a bachelor’s degree in building sciences-sustainable building systems. “Beyond the engineering challenges, the team has given me lifelong friendships and memories I will carry with me long after graduation.” Visit sunergy.appstate.edu to learn more about App State’s Team Sunergy. Photo: App State’s Team Sunergy and its solar racing vehicle, Autumn, cross the finish line on day eight of the 2026 American Solar Challenge in Amarillo, Texas, completing the cross-country road race. Photo by Kyla Willoughby

New Radiation Technology Brings Advanced Cancer Care Closer to Home Thanks to the generosity of donors across the High Country, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center has installed a new state-of-the-art Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator (LINAC), bringing the latest radiation therapy technology to patients close to home. The new LINAC replaces the center’s previous machine, which has delivered nearly 80,000 radiation treatments over the past 18 years. While that technology served patients well, the Varian TrueBeam offers state-of-the-art radiation therapy with HyperSight, a high-speed, high-quality imaging system that gives clinicians a clearer view of tumors for more precise treatment planning. Combined with the PerfectPitch treatment table, the system improves treatment accuracy, better protects surrounding healthy tissue by reducing unnecessary radiation exposure, supports more personalized treatment plans, and enhances safety for patients receiving both conventional

radiation therapy and stereotactic treatments. These advancements mean patients can receive safer, more effective cancer care close to home without having to travel off the mountain. The campaign to fund the LINAC was inspired by cancer survivor Chris Petti, who celebrated 25 years since her cancer diagnosis by making a $1 million lead gift. After receiving treatment at the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, Chris wanted to express her gratitude for the exceptional care she received while helping ensure future patients have access to the most advanced cancer treatment close to home. Her gift came with one request: it had to be matched. An anonymous donor answered the challenge with a matching gift honoring the legacy of Dr. Herman Godwin, the Cancer Center’s founding oncologist. Together with the support of many generous donors, the campaign raised $5 million. In recognition of Chris Petti’s extraordinary generosity and the compassion she has shown to fellow cancer patients, the new linear accelerator has been lovingly named “Chris.” Photo: Donor Chris Petti and Rob Hudspeth, President of the Appalachian Healthcare Foundation and Chief External Affairs Officer for UNC Health Appalachian, as they visit ‘Chris,’ the new Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator at the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center.

Julia Taylor Morton, Steward of Grandfather Mountain, Passes Away at Age 100 Julia Morton, who passed away this past July, will be remembered for her spirit, grace and stewardship of Grandfather Mountain. She was the wife of the late Hugh Morton, who opened the Grandfather Mountain travel attraction after inheriting the mountain from his grandfather. “Julia’s life was marked by faith, grace and a rare ability to make people feel seen

. . read all about it!

Compiled by Steve York and CML Staff

Carolina at Chapel Hill so that his photographs could be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come. “Mrs. Morton was one of Grandfather Mountain’s most beloved ambassadors,” said Pope. “We are heartbroken by the loss . . . and we extend our deepest condolences to the Morton Family.”

Photos—The Morton Family at the Mile High Swinging Bridge, from L to R: Hugh MacRae Jr., Julia Morton, James (Jim) McKay, Catherine Walker, Hugh Morton, Julia (Judy) MacRae. Photo Courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. Photo of Julia Morton, courtesy of the Morton Family.

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Mayland Community College Becomes a Bee Campus USA College Bees and other pollinators are an important part of our ecosystem and vital to our food supply. Now, they are also going back to school, sort of. Mayland Community College has just recently become a Bee Campus USA College as part of the effort to protect and support our pollinators. While honeybees (apis mellifera) came to the New World along with Europeans and have proven themselves highly industrious and useful, North America is home to over 3,600 native bee species. Many of these species are threatened or in danger. Bee Campus USA and Bee City USA are initiatives of the Xerces Society, created to help protect pollinators by creating healthy

Discover the Friends of the Watauga County Public Library What can you get for $10 a year? Turns out, a whole lot of Friends. The Friends of the Watauga County Public Library believes that great libraries build great communities, and you are invited to be part of that mission. An annual membership of just $10 makes so much happen: used book sales; book giveaways through community events and their dozen Little Free Libraries; programs that feature writers and local heritage; and fundraising campaigns to support library staff and library improvements. One of the best bargains in Boone is Books & Crannies, the Friends’ used bookstore located inside the Watauga County Public Library. With more than 3,500 gently used books, puzzles, games, DVDs, and CDs, the store is constantly refreshed with new donations. “Whether you’re searching for a bestselling novel, a children’s favorite, or a hidden literary treasure, you’ll find exceptional values while supporting your local library.” Friends is powered by dedicated volunteers who sort donations, stock the bookstore, organize the (extremely popular) biannual used book sale, and support library

events throughout the year. Their enthusiasm and generosity help make the library an even more vibrant place to learn, connect, and explore. Whether you’re searching for your next great read, looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity, or simply want to give back to your community, becoming a Friend is a wonderful place to start. Joining the Friends is an easy and meaningful way to invest in our community. Membership is open to everyone, and volunteers are always welcome, whether you have a few hours each month or simply enjoy being surrounded by books and fellow library enthusiasts. “Stop by Books & Crannies, become a Friend, or volunteer your time. Together, we can ensure that the Watauga County Public Library remains a vibrant place to learn, discover, and connect.” To learn more or join online, visit wataugacountyfol.org.

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and welcomed,” said Jesse Pope, president and CEO of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “She was Hugh Morton’s steadfast partner and one of Grandfather Mountain’s most cherished champions—helping carry forward the legacy of conservation, public access and love for this mountain. Her spirit will remain woven into Grandfather Mountain, and we will honor her by continuing the work she so beautifully advocated for and supported.” Morton led quite the fulfilling life and held many notable achievements. She volunteered with Avery Literacy, teaching reading and math and helping adults study for the GED test. She was known for decades of community volunteer work across the state. In 1973, she was elected to the University of North Carolina Board of Governors. She served in this capacity for 16 years, was elected Vice Chairman of the Board and headed the committee that selected Dick Spangler to succeed President Bill Friday to lead the 16-campus university system. Morton’s greatest legacy perhaps came to be in 2009, after the death of her husband, when she led the creation of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. By contributing sole ownership of the tourist attraction via a donation of the only remaining share of Grandfather Mountain, her generosity changed the Mortons’ family business into a not-for-profit organization that continues to make Grandfather Mountain accessible to the public while investing its resources in education, conservation and preservation of the natural world. Morton’s generosity permanently protects Grandfather’s wonders for the people of N.C. and beyond. Julia Morton was truly the woman behind the scenes at Grandfather Mountain for many decades and, in her later years, continued to impact the mountain in grand ways that have honored her family, the natural world and those who travel from far and wide to enjoy the mountain. Not only did Morton carry forward the legacy of Grandfather Mountain, but she also provided her husband’s photograph and film works to the North Carolina Collection at Wilson Library at the University of North

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Community & Local Business News habitats full of native plants and nest locations while protecting the bees and other pollinators from pesticides and other threats. All across the U.S., cities and communities are supporting the effort by joining the over 250 affiliates of Bee City USA, and there are currently 229 Bee Campus USA affiliates, college campuses that are committed to efforts to protect and support pollinators. The High Country’s own Mayland Community College is now one of those affiliates. As part of this commitment, Mayland is planting native plants in new hanging pots on rails around the Spruce Pine campus, phasing out practices harmful to pollinators, and working to encourage activities that will draw pollinators and protect them. A committee, including faculty, staff, and student representatives, meets regularly and works to implement pollinatorfriendly policies and plans. The Toe Cane Bee Keepers Association’s wonderful new teaching apiary sits adjacent to campus, so both honeybees and native pollinators will benefit from the new and protected pollen sources on site. To learn more about Bee Campus USA and Bee City USA, visit the website at beecityusa.org; to learn more about Mayland, visit Mayland.edu, and, if you stop by campus, you never know who else might be buzzing in for a visit! -Contributed by Elizabeth Baird Hardy

Photo on previous page: Mayland faculty and staff installed hanging baskets and potted native plants as part of this year’s Convocation Week before the beginning of classes.

First Fruits Açaí: A Fresh & Healthy Way to Dine The grand opening of First Fruits Açaí this past July marked a fresh and delicious new entry into the richly varied restaurant offerings of Banner Elk. And this delightful

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eatery is unique in both its menu and its mission. As co-owner and manager Luke Crowe noted, “First Fruits Açaí is a Christianowned business that hopes to benefit the special town of Banner Elk, along with the rest of Avery County. The business not only hopes to provide a fresh and new option to the area, but also create an environment for employees to flourish, and for customers to feel at home.” The broader vision for the operation comes from their mission statement: “At First Fruits Açaí, our mission is to glorify God by serving our community with excellence, hospitality, and wholesome, nourishing food. Inspired by the biblical principle of offering our ‘first fruits,’ we are committed to honoring Christ in everything we do. Our prayer is that we can give back to God and to our community by creating a welcoming place where every guest is treated with kindness, every bowl is crafted with care, and every interaction reflects God’s love.” As their name implies, First Fruit Açaí serves up açaí bowls, smoothies and fresh fruit. Açaí (pronounced: ah-sigh-EE) berry is a purple berry that comes from palm trees native to South America and is considered a “superfood” since it is naturally low in sugar while being rich in antioxidants, fiber and healthy fats. The wide selection of fresh ingredients allows customers to choose from signature bowls or create their own versions using the special variety of grains, fruits, nuts and seeds. Crowe also noted, “The town of Banner Elk possesses a hidden gem nestled in the mountains with the beautiful campus of Lees-McRae and its students. First Fruits aims to be a place for the students to be proud of while they are attending, and a place they long to come back to after they graduate. The product served may be açaí bowls and smoothies, but First Fruits Açaí is in the hospitality business. The shared desire among our owners is to build relationships and serve the community.” Open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., First Fruit Açaí is located at 397 Shawneehaw Ave, Suite A, Banner Elk. -Contributed by Steve York

The New Grandview Market Collective Is Now Open! This new and exciting upscale collection of vendors opened their doors on July 28 in the Seven Devils/Foscoe area on Highway 105 and has shoppers buzzing. Located in the former Country Gourmet setting, Grandview Market Collective is exactly what its name implies: a rich collection of everything from timeless antiques and vintage treasures to thoughtfully repurposed décor and handcrafted goods by talented local artisans, to clothing for men, women, and children, unique gifts, and lots more. Come visit Mike and Kellie Gore along with their son and store manager, Rivers, and plan to spend a fun portion of your day browsing through their creative and ever-changing displays of carefully selected treasures, many of which you won’t find anywhere else. Their passion comes alive in creating memorable shopping experiences backed by more than a decade of producing Vintage Market Days events across the country. For over ten years, they’ve worked with exceptional vendors, makers, and small businesses, building relationships and curating markets that celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and community. And that same expertise and commitment to quality is what helps make Grandview Market Collective so special and a unique shopping experience. “We believe that shopping should be inspiring, personal, and fun. By supporting local artisans, small businesses, and independent vendors, we’re proud to offer a place where every purchase has a story and every visit feels like coming home. With new inventory arriving regularly from our talented vendors, every visit offers fresh inspiration and one-of-a-kind finds,” noted the Gore family.

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Newland Welcomes Hemlock Home Furniture and Fabric Gallery to the High Country How do you find carefully curated collections of designer quality furnishings and fabrics at truly affordable prices, and all right here in the High Country? Come to Newland and meet Scott J! A brand-new home furnishings, fabrics, wallpaper and local art gallery opened its doors in Newland on August 8 and is filling a gap here in the High Country by offering the highest quality home furnishings at surprisingly affordable prices.

A native of NC, Scott earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Textile Technology with a concentration in Design from NCSU, and in the process, developed a keen eye for fabric design and its application to the furnishings industry. Scott has worked for Richloom Fabric Corporation, Morgan Fabrics, and others; he has designed upholstery fabrics for over 20 years, and has been President of High Rock Fabrics, supplier of upholstery fabric to major furniture manufacturers. In between all that, he also managed to form a successful touring metal rock band. Featuring exceptional furnishing designs by acclaimed Jackson Furniture of Cleveland, TN, Hemlock Home’s three distinct showrooms feature high-quality furniture including sofas, loveseats and recliners, plus a wide selection of upholstery fabrics; hand-crafted and hand-painted wallpapers from the U.S. and Italy; genuine leather and hair-on hides; and unique home décor. Add to that local art by Kent Paulette, pottery from Rutkowsky Pottery, and treenware bowls and art pieces from Timothy Hoy. Currently showcased on Facebook and Instagram, Hemlock Home’s website also features an online gallery of their furnishing and fabric collections, along with special events, new product announcements and sales. So, take a short drive to Newland, meet Scott and his accommodating staff, and browse the wide selection of Jackson Furniture brand furnishings, elegant upholstery fabrics, wallpapers, art and a rich variety of home décor. Located at 1490 Elk Park Highway in Newland, Hemlock Home Furnishings and Fabric Gallery is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. And, to make shopping even more enjoyable, Hemlock Home is establishing a food truck park alongside their showrooms that will be open occasionally and provide a variety of food options. Visit hemlockhome.net or call 828-742-1252. - Contributed by Steve York

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery… A New Bridge Over Troubled Waters It’s been two years since Hurricane Helene ransacked western North Carolina. And it’s taken much of those two years for several businesses to fully recover. One such business was Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, just off Hwy 105 between Boone and Banner Ek. Helene sent ravaging flood waters down the Watauga River that fateful night of September 27, 2024, and destroyed the main public entrance bridge to the Tatum family’s winery/vineyard facility. The riverbed runs adjacent to the parking lot, tap room, winemaking facilities, and hillside vineyards. And the riverbanks are only a few feet from where customers sit, tour, watch live music, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon socializing. Since all of that area was affected, it was a good 30 days before they could open their doors again. In the weeks immediately following the storm, the Tatums focused on support for their employees, seeking financial resources for repairs and recovery, and getting the operation ready to resume business. To facilitate customer access to the winery, the Tatums had a temporary walking path constructed from the overflow parking lot onto the property. That was soon followed by construction of a walking bridge.

But building a replacement bridge capable of carrying cars and large commercial vehicles was a hefty expense. So, to help with that, winery founders Steve and Sally Tatum along with their son, Dylan, and his wife, Nicole, found that their wine club members were eager to contribute. In turn, the Tatums offered sponsorship levels that included engraved names on a commemorative block near the winery as well as name plaques added directly to the new bridge for larger donors. This past June, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to christen the new bridge and celebrate a return to normal winery access. Tasting room manager and wine club director Nicole Tatum joined the rest of the Tatum family in honoring all those who contributed funds toward the new bridge and in welcoming the 500-plus people in attendance to enjoy the rest of the afternoon’s celebrations. Along with a new bridge, the Tatums came away with a deepened sense of appreciation for the High Country’s spirit of community support in times of great challenges. grandfathervineyard.com | Contributed by Steve York

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Grandview Market Collective is open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Their new mall is located in the former Country Gourmet building at 10545 NC Hwy 105 S. Banner Elk. You can also take a peek by visiting their website displays at grandviewcollective.us; reach them by phone at 828-457-9275. -Contributed by Steve York

. . read all about it!

Mountain Vista Window Washing… a visionary success story The name of the business says it all. When you live, work and play in the richly verdant splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you naturally want to be able to view the many scenic mountain vistas stretched out before you as clearly as possible. Whether a shortrange view outside to your garden or a longrange view across an ocean of forested mountain peaks, it’s the view that reminds you that

you live in a very special place! So, the clarity of your windows is paramount. However, keeping those windows clear and clean is no easy chore. And that’s where Mountain Vista Window Washing lives up to its name. Founded by Rowen Todd almost 10 years ago when he was merely a teen, the business’ humble beginnings got its start out of the back of his trusty Subaru wagon. For many, it would seem a long shot. But Todd was a hard worker and a “visionary” of sorts. In other words, he could envision the need for a reliable, professional window cleaning service that could serve the rapidly growing needs of High Country residents and businesses. Today, Todd’s enterprise has expanded its client list and menu of services to include screen cleaning, track cleaning, screen repair, exterior and interior gutter cleaning and gutter guard installation, deck and other exterior pressure washing, house and roof soft washing, and dryer vent cleaning. His teammates, Cosette, Alex, Brandon, Ezra, Jackson,

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Community & Local Business News Jeremiah, Lee, Max, Sol, Rae and Izzy, have racked up a truckload of awards as the company has grown. Starting with the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce “4 Under 40 Award,” the business has also garnered the Boone Chamber’s Business of the Year in 2020, Outstanding Customer Service Award in 2023, plus first place in two categories at the International Window Cleaning Convention in Galveston, TX, with Smeltzer winning in the Women’s Speed Cleaning competition, and Todd winning in the “under two minutes with least mistakes” Medley competition. To top it off, the business assures sustainable wages and advancement opportunities for its employees, plus gives a percentage of earnings to carbon neutrality, along with reduced or free services to the elderly, small schools and area outdoor educators. For more information on this inspiring business success story, visit mountainvistawinwash.com.

—Contributed by Steve York

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. . read all about it! Molly Northern

Molly Northern’s The Bee & The Boxwood By Steve York

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Check out Molly Northern’s world at thebeeandtheboxwood.com.

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located in the High Country, plus a really fun one on a lake in East Tennessee. CML: Is there an especially exciting design project you’re working on…and is there something you’ve never done but would like to try? Northern: Currently, designing the interiors for the new Green Park Inn in Blowing Rock is the project I’m most excited about. In my endeavor to create a timeless “Southern Mountain” aesthetic, I’ve collaborated with fabric designers to create our own “Green Park Floral” that is a nod to some of the original drapery fabric that hung in the guest rooms of the original hotel. I’ve also worked with a few of my favorite Southern artists like Bee Sieburg and Jenny Westenhofer to create custom artwork that will be featured throughout the new project. In addition, among my all-time favorite projects would be working alongside my oldest son and his wife, Austin and Callie Northern, designing Daniel & the Dog bar and restaurant on the ground floor of the 1850 Hotel in downtown Boone: a fun design based around Boone’s famous frontiersman and his canine companions. I collected artwork, books, memorabilia and faux animal mounts that came together to create a space where “British pub meets American pioneer.” As for something I’ve always wanted to do...I have often dreamt of how fun it would be to design movie and television sets!

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CML: Tell us about your retail and design staff? Northern: I’m so blessed to have a staff of around 10 bright, friendly ladies of all ages that rotate between both shops, aptly named “The Bee Team.” Each brings their own special gifts and personalities to the fun shopping atmosphere we try to have for our shoppers. Madison Winkler (my niece) has been with me since the beginning and is crucial in seeing that the day-to-day operations of the retail portion of the business run smoothly. Recently, Madison has skillfully and effortlessly stepped into the role of design assistant for Molly Northern Interiors. CML: How would you describe your design approach? Northern: With a personality that tires easily of common design approaches, I’ve always shied away from mainstream decorating ‘trends’ and, instead, have been drawn to interiors that feel fresh, charming and a bit unusual. I always ask myself, “What would I do if I lived here?” With that in mind, I try to select elements that are unexpected and have a ‘feel good’ quality. CML: What’s the balance of your in-store and online sales? Northern: The bulk of our sales are instore and over the phone. But our Instagram profile has proven to be the best way to introduce new products as well as convey the overall aesthetic of our brand with followers as far away as India and Australia. CML: Where are most of your design projects? Northern: Although I’ve completed projects throughout the Southeast, currently, most of my design projects are

The Bee & The Boxwood gift/home accessories shops along with Molly Northern Interiors, LLC have two locations—one in Boone and the other in Blowing Rock— with interior design services set in the back of the Boone shop. Both are the creative offspring of one Molly Northern. And the first thing you’ll notice as you walk in is how bright, upbeat and playful her world is. For a better picture of Northern’s world, we posed several questions. CML: What was the inspiration for The Bee & The Boxwood name? Northern: Bain is my middle name, plus my mother’s and my daughter’s middle name. Since I was little, my family and close friends have called me “Molly Bee”! I wanted to incorporate Bee into a fun name for my new business. I’ve also long loved the gorgeous shop “Boxwoods” in Atlanta. So, one day I combined the two ideas and thought it was a charming name for a charming little shop! I also absolutely loved coming up with the logo! CML: Do both your Boone and Blowing Rock locations feature your gift and accessory products? Northern: While the aesthetics of both shops showcase our signature look & feel, we’ve created two distinct shopping experiences. With a slightly more elevated feel, the Boone shop focuses on carefully curated furnishings, original art, and beautiful accessories. The Blowing Rock shop is full of charm and offers an extensive assortment of gorgeous gifts, houseware, children’s gifts and clothing. They are similar in feel and yet quite different. It’s fun to hear customers tell us which shop is their favorite and why!

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•

Mia’s Corner

••••••••••••••••••••••••• Welcome to Mia’s Corner Hi, I am 12 years old and I love to hear stories, and I want to hear back from YOU! This is a space where our readers and our community can share their experiences. Each issue I’ll come up with a new prompt to hear all the incredible stories that create conversation so we can hear YOUR voice! First, I want to share about one of my favorite things—my rescue animals. Please send in your own rescue animal stories for our winter edition, a season when these sweet animals have the hardest time in our area.

MEET MY PALS!

M I A’ S

RUEBEN

PEANUT

• Levi was adopted in 2010 before I was born in 2014. He was found in the dumpster at 6 weeks old at the Watauga landfill.

• Rueben was also adopted before I was born. Days after my parents got married, they went to an event right in front of CML’s office in Banner Elk.

• Peanut was dropped off at a local home as a hunting dog, but they couldn’t take her.

• He was rescued and went to the Watauga animal control where a local organization, “Friends for Life,” rescued him. They had an adoption event at the Boone mall where my parents were delivering CML magazines. He was hesitant to let anyone touch him, but he jumped into my dad’s arms and has been a loyal companion ever since. In his youth, he loved to go on all my mom’s and dad’s adventures! From kayaking, tubing, flying on planes, and even going on motorcycles! • Sometimes we call him “Cat-Dog” because he acts more like a cat sometimes!

• They found sweet “Rue-dog” there. He was rescued from Ashe County animal control— he was picked up after his mom was found with his siblings in a dogfighting home. He was going to be put to sleep, but he was rescued from a local who helped to adopt him and his siblings out. • He likes his independence and being outside but makes friends wherever he goes. We even have neighbors that also give him treats and love daily. He loves licking everyone’s legs to say hello!

CHESNUT “CHESIE”

MELINA “MEL”

• On the first Saturday of this year’s summer break, we went to the Watauga County Farmers’ Market to find ingredients for • She lived in the culverts our summer recipe of the neighborhood section. where I would stop and try to say hi on our walks • A couple had kittens that had wandered into every day. She was so their barn, but they scared and shy that it took 2 months for her to could not keep them. come up to me. At night she would come take any • As soon as my mom (who is normally not a toys or shoes from our cat person) saw Melina yard, sleep with them it was love at first sight! and bring them—well She basically threw all some of them—back in her market goodies to the morning. me and picked up “Mel.” • She walked into our We brought her home home 3 years ago and and she seamlessly fit has never turned back. right in! Peanut was She is every human’s and especially excited and creature’s best friend interested. now and she is always • She loves to explore, the best companion. climb trees and cuddle!

• At the end of summer we went to Sunrise Grill to support a fundraiser for Zionville Ramp Co., who has gone above and beyond for our community after hurricane Helene. • Well... after we wandered into Pet Supplies Plus, where we met the sweetest kitten! She was rescued from the Allegheny County kill shelter. • We all instantly fell in love and so did her sister, Mel, when we brought her home! She loves playing with anything we drop on the floor, playing with Mel, and especially loves snuggles with me and my little sister.

My family and I have been blessed with my animals; I have grown up seeing the benefits of rescuing from local shelters. I can’t wait to hear your stories! Email me: cmlmiagoheen@gmail.com Watauga Humane Society: wataugahumane.org Avery Humane Society: averyhumane.org Ashe Humane Society: ashehumanesociety.org CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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Fall Into Smarter Savings. Cooler days can mean higher energy use—but it doesn’t have to. These simple tips will make your home more e cient and your bills more a ordable all year long.

Cover drafty windows: install insulated drapes or shades. Take advantage of the sun’s heat and open them on sunny days.

Check that the dryer vent hose is tightly connected to the dryer and is not kinked or clogged.

When heating keep windows locked and caulk around gaps in windows and doors.

Unplug battery chargers and electronics when not needed.

Hire a qualiﬁed professional to inspect your furnace or boiler and replace your ﬁlters regularly through the season.

Use COLD water when doing laundry.

Switch your ceiling fan direction to rotate clockwise in winter to help circulate warm air downwards.

Replace damaged shingles and clean gutters making sure downspouts point away from the house.

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Christmas magic is found on the farm, not in a parking lot.

Make the trek to the Boone & Blowing Rock area in Watauga County to hand pick your family Christmas tree. Many farms offer hayrides, farm animals, cookies and cocoa, and even Christmas Shops where wreaths and roping are also available. Visit the Choose and Cut Capital this season, and start your own family tradition.

To find a farm, visit: wataugachristmastrees.org or call 828.264.3061

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Sam Brown

Gearing up to Close the Gap

High Country Youth Hit the Slopes with Help from Gear for Groms By Julie Farthing GROM (short for grommet) is slang for a young, highly energetic person involved in extreme sports like surfing, skateboarding, or snowboarding.

s summer sets beyond the mountains, crisp cooler air replaces August heat and a blanket of vibrant colors swaps out the emerald-green leaves across the High Country. For Sam Brown, founder of Gear for Groms, this seasonal shift is the cue to encourage local families to clean out their closets of outgrown winter gear so another kid can hit the slopes. Sam has called Banner Elk home since 1994, attending Avery County schools and growing up with the mountains as his playground. Back then, local spots like “Edge of the World” provided a safe space for youth to gather, hang out, and skateboard under friendly adult supervision. However, when the local skate ramp was forced to close when Sam was a teenager, a noticeable gap formed in local youth activities. Years later, as a father of two young children, Sam saw that same gap reemerge—specifically when it came to accessing outdoor sports equipment. In 2022, Sam partnered with his friend Owen Yawn to establish a 501(c)(3) nonprofit called Gear for Groms. Their goal was simple: eliminate financial friction so local kids can enjoy outdoor sports.

I recently sat down with Sam at the Banner Elk Book Exchange, the former school library inside the Historic Banner Elk School that still serves the community he holds dear. He could recall the names of all his teachers and even the time he went to the principal’s office because he stepped on a girl’s toes at the water fountain. But it is the children of the future that hold his attention now. “I don’t want to ever turn away a child for anything. We are at that tipping point where things are really getting rolling,” Brown said of the growing popularity of Gear for Groms. “Purchasing brand-new snow gear—jackets, pants, helmets, boots, and boards—can cost up to $1,400 per child,” exclaimed Brown. Families can visit the non-profit’s storage unit in Banner Elk where kids freely pick out warm clothes, helmets, skis, or snowboards that fit their size and style. The gratitude from parents is overwhelming, with happy tears being a regular occurrence during gear-fitting days. What started in a small storage space serving between 15 and 30 kids in 2024 more than doubled last year. To amplify their impact, Gear for Groms works closely with the Beech Mountain Ski Education Foundation (BMSEF) Slope Seekers program. Together, they extend an open invitation to all fifth

graders in Avery County and Watauga County to experience skiing or snowboarding for the very first time. Through this partnership, kids receive a complete, all-inclusive package: n Lift tickets provided directly through BMSEF n Professional coaching staff from Beech Mountain Resort n Full equipment rentals from Beech

Mountain Resort

n Outerwear kit—everything to keep them warm and safe—from Gear for Groms

As peak donation season arrives in late September and early October, Sam focuses on gathering inventory. The growing library already holds a solid start of snowboards, skis, helmets, socks, gloves, facemasks, jackets, and bibs. Driven by local word-of-mouth and a deep love for mountain culture, Sam’s dream remains firm: ensuring no child in the community ever has to sit on the sidelines due to missing gear. By passing down jackets, boards, and positive role modeling, Gear for Groms is making sure the next generation falls in love with the slopes. Sam’s newest endeavor with Gear for Continued on next page

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Groms is advocating to get an in-ground concrete skatepark constructed in Avery County—an initiative sparked by a local youth. “It was actually the idea of Hollis Bagbey, the son of local restaurant owners Laurie and Pat Bagbey,” Sam explained. Hollis first approached Sam two years ago as a fifth grader, expressing a passion to bring a skatepark to the community. Taking matters into his own hands, Hollis created a petition at Edge of the World that quickly gathered over 700 signatures. He went on to organize an overflowing community meeting with the planning board,

where he delivered a speech dressed in a suit. “It brought me back to when I was a kid when we all roamed around, and you don’t see that too much anymore,” Sam reflected, noting that Hollis can still be seen riding his bike around town. Brown has since presented to the Board of Education and spoken with both county and town managers. Ideally, he hopes to see three skateparks built—one in the northern, central, and southern parts of the county—with Banner Elk serving as the action sports hub. Community leaders are currently helping to search for a suit-

able site, as an in-ground skatepark would be a vital asset for local youth. “The vision for Gear for Groms is to enable children in the area to participate in any kind of outdoor sport they want, whether that be skiing or snowboarding, mountain biking, skateboarding, fishing, archery—whatever it is, I want to be able to facilitate that for kids. Ultimately, we would love to have a brick-and-mortar place, like Edge of the World was for me, where kids can hang out and have a gear library at their disposal.” Visit Gearforgroms.org to inquire about donations.

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9am-9pm Mon-Sat | 10am-8pm Sun Main St., Blowing Rock | 828-295-9326 110 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Inset: May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

The Animals Thank You for Repurposing By Tamara S. Randolph Avery Humane Society | 828-733-2333 279 New Vale Rd., Newland, NC, 28657 Wish list at averyhumane.org Watauga Humane Society | 828-266-9843 | 312 Paws Way, Boone, NC 28607 Wish list at wataugahumane.org/wishlist Mitchell County Animal Rescue 828-765-6952 | 2492 US Highway 19E, Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Wish list at mitchellcountyanimalrescue.org/ shop-for-mcar May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at Lees-McRae College | 828-898-2568 367 Mill Pond Rd., Banner Elk, NC, 28604 Wish list at https://a.co/e4HTzT9, and find other opportunities to help at Facebook. com/MayWildlifeRehab, and lmc.edu/ academics/may-wildlife-center Rescue Dog & End of Life Sanctuary 423-956-2564 | Mountain City, TN (serving Johnson County, TN) | rescuedogandendoflifesanctuary.org Scooters Underdogs | Elk Park, NC Please note that as of this writing, Scooters Underdogs is limited in the community services they can provide; pet owners may be able to apply for select programs, such as spay/neuter assistance, pet food, and pet tags. For the most up-to-date information, visit facebook.com/ScootersUnderdogs/. Ashe Humane Society | Wish list at ashehumanesociety.org/copy-of-ways-to-donate

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accepts other household items and clothing to sell in support of our mission.” For many of us animal lovers, our furry companions have “crossed over the rainbow bridge.” We’ve accumulated leashes, collars, squeaky toys, scratch pads, pet beds, crates, carriers, and extra pet food and treats. The excellent care you gave your own pet can be passed along to other animals and animal adopters in need. Take these used supplies (even opened bags of pet food, in their original containers) to the Humane Societies and rescue facilities in your area. If you question an item you’d like to donate, simply give them a call before making a visit. Lees-McRae College’s May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Banner Elk is especially thankful for a handful of repurposable items, including gently used towels. “If you have slightly used towels (no strings) you’d be willing to donate, please call the Center or bring them directly to us. And if you have any old 5-, 10-, or 20-gallon aquariums laying around, consider donating them to us to use for our injured and orphaned wildlife patients. They don’t have to be pretty or even have a lid, they just need to be free of cracks and chips. We will clean them up!” Of course, all of our animal rescue organizations and shelters can use new items as well—these wish lists might include things like milk replacer, medical equipment and special animal beds. Listed here are links to our local animal welfare organizations’ current needs. And “repurposing” that cash in your wallet is always appreciated, as is donating your time as a volunteer. This fall, take a moment to look around your house for gently used items that animals-in-need, and their devoted caretakers, might be able to put to new use. Every gift—great and small—makes a difference.

R E S O U R C E

This time of the year, we start thinking about our holiday wish lists. Perhaps your own wish list includes a set of new sheets to replace that set with worn out elastic. Maybe you could use a new set of towels and washcloths before the holiday guests arrive. If you’re like me, your linen closet is full of older sheets, towels and blankets that are rarely, if ever, used; yet, you don’t think they are worthy of being donated to a thrift store, and putting them in the trash seems like a bad idea. It just so happens that old sheets, towels and blankets are at the very top of wish lists at our animal rescue facilities. In fact, there are many items on their wish lists that you have in your home but would like to thin out. Donating them to one of these facilities is a win-win, both to help animals in need and help you avoid putting reusable goods into the landfill. “Anything you want to give, we take,” says Elsa Delgado at the Avery Humane Society. She notes only one exception: old medications. “But that’s about it,” she confirms. Do you still love to read paper newspapers? Take them to your favorite rescue facility when you’re finished with them. Have some cleaning supplies that you no longer need? Shelters don’t care if they’ve been opened; bring them your half-empty bleach, laundry detergent, or window cleaner. If you’ve bought in bulk and can’t possibly use all those sponges, Swiffer refills, paper towels, trash bags, printer paper, sticky notes, ink pens, etc., these shelters need your surplus! “We accept all of those items you listed, along with pet supplies (crates, food, leashes),” says Courtney Taylor, Director of Development and Communications at the Watauga Humane Society. “We also have our Bare Bones Boutique thrift store that

Fifteen years ago, the High Country’s own Jennifer Pharr Davis set a World Record for “Fastest Thru Hike of the AT,” completing the journey in 46 days, 11 hours, and 20 minutes. Ready to take the AT challenge? Read Steve York’s “A Newbie’s Guide” to the Appalachian Trail on pg. 90. Grey Beard Photo by Mike Percherke

Helping Native Flora along the Greenway Trail in Boone

A Community Gives Thanks for Banner Elk Volunteer Fire & Rescue

Banner Elk Volunteer Fire & Rescue serves Banner Elk, Sugar Mountain, Diamond Creek, Elk River, Eagles Nest, Tynecastle, The Farm, Balm, and Lees-McRae College. Their team of volunteers responds to calls 24 hours a day, giving their nights, weekends, and countless hours to keep the community safe. With the loss of a long-standing FEMA grant, the department has had to rely on a variety of funding sources to continue the important work they do. In mid-August, a “Sound the Alarm” benefit concert, hosted by the Banner Elk Fire and Rescue Foundation, raised more than $60,000, with legendary music group Chairmen of the Board performing on Sorrento’s Outdoor Stage in The Village of Banner Elk. “Every ticket purchased helps strengthen our volunteer fire department by supporting training, lifesaving equipment, and the resources our firefighters rely on to protect our residents and visitors.” Online donations can still be made at www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/keep-the-alarmsounding-support-banner-elk-volunteer-fire-department. Other vital funding has come from the High Country Charitable Foundation (HCCF), whose mission is “to empower & uplift those in need by supporting community agencies that provide essential services.” Their generous support of Banner Elk Volunteer Fire & Rescue over the years has helped fill critical funding gaps. Learn more about their recently distributed ‘26-’27 grants at highcountryfoundation.org.

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This past summer, the Town of Boone released over 5,000 tiny weevils on the Boone Greenway Trail to combat the Mile-a-Minute weed, an invasive plant that grows up to six inches a day! Left to grow, it pushes out our native flora— food sources for our local animals and pollinators. The barbs on this pesky plant can also injure people and animals who try to access the river. App State student Sophia Sizer played a key role in the planning and implementation of the project. The hope is that these mighty weevils, who feed solely on Mile-aMinute, will help control its spread. “Next time you’re at the Boone Greenway Trail, cheer these little guys on!”

Dale “Grey Beard” Sanders of Tennessee Sets Another Record!

He’s the oldest person to achieve a “thru hike” of the Appalachian Trail…and this was his second such record-breaking feat, with the first being in 2017 at age 82. “I just don’t know when to quit. I had to thank God, and I had to thank my support team and everybody that got me here,” proclaimed 91-year-old Sanders upon completing his historic 2,197-mile trek across the crest of the Appalachian Mountains. Sanders finished his latest record-setting adventure on August 31, 2026. Along the way, he suffered some falls—the last fall was onto sharp granite boulders only 200 yards from the final Katahdin summit, yet he kept going and set the record again. His is a victory of spirit, determination and the joy of living to one’s fullest.

Lees-McRae College in the Spotlight

Lees-McRae (LMC) students, alumni, and faculty will make their television debut this fall! Emmy®-winning conservationist, television host, and executive producer Jeff Corwin has partnered with LeesMcRae College for the new television series, “Jeff Corwin’s Southern Wild,” which premieres Saturday, October 3. Filmed across North Carolina, the series follows Corwin from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic coast. Joining Corwin in the field are scientists, wildlife experts and conservationists, as well as Lees-McRae College students, educators, and alumni, whose hands-on work in wildlife biology, rehabilitation, and conservation offers a window into how the next generation of environmental leaders is being prepared. “Jeff Corwin’s Southern Wild” will air weekend mornings on ABC stations nationwide (times vary; check local listings).

In other LMC news, an enrollment record was set this fall semester, with students from 43 states and 22 countries making their way to the Banner Elk college. “The experiential academic programs we offer at Lees-McRae set our school apart and continue to appeal to students looking for a distinctive education that will prepare them for the professional world,” said President Lee King. Follow more LMC news at lmc.edu/about/news-center.

A Story of Survival, Faith, and Strength

”Scars on the Mountain” is a 2026 documentary, directed by Christopher Pike, that explores the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on Yancey County, North Carolina. Told entirely through the voices of survivors, “Scars on the Mountain” is a “raw, profoundly human account of what happens when disaster strikes in the most unlikely of places.” You can watch a trailer at scarsonthemountain.com, and also link to the streaming platform, Angel, to view the entire documentary.

Discover Boone after dark with a cast of lovable little bats!

When the lights go out and the streets grow quiet, Boone, NC, comes alive in a whole new way. Join a charming group of bats as they soar through some of the town’s most beloved landmarks, discover local history, and remind young readers that adventure can be found right in their own backyard. Written and illustrated by Alyssa Hughes, The Bats of Boone celebrates curiosity, community, and the magic of exploring together. Perfect for families, classrooms, and anyone who loves the High Country, this keepsake is more than just a bedtime story—it’s an invitation to experience Boone in a whole new way. The official book launch takes place September 25—pick up your copy at Mast General Store in Valle Crucis and Boone.

Join Oasis in Promoting Community Awareness

Nationwide, October is “Domestic Violence Awareness Month.” Oasis, Inc. is a nonprofit organization in the High Country that, for 48 years, has provided free and confidential services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual violence in Watauga and Avery counties. During October, Oasis raises awareness so that neighbors can help neighbors. “If you or someone you know is in need of our services, we are always available via the 24/7 Support lines at (828) 262-5035 (Watauga), (828) 504-0911 (Avery), and (828) 504-0800 (Spanish Crisis Line). Learn more at oasisinc.org.

Stash & Latch Your Trash

Our local bears are on the move as they prepare for the cold months. And they will settle for almost any food they can get their paws on. Here are some important pointers to help keep their paws away from your property: • Always close and latch bear-resistant trash containers (BRCs). • Keep containers that are not bear-resistant in a sturdy, locked building or bear-resistant enclosure. • Put garbage (including any frozen food scraps) and recycling out the morning of trash pickup/drop-off, not the night before. • Never leave trash, food, animal feed or bird seed in a vehicle or open truck bed. Clean truck beds often. • Never store trash on or under decks, porches or balconies. Remember: screens don’t keep bears out. • Rinse out cans, bottles and other recycling to reduce odors. Clean trash containers often. Avoid fruit-scented cleaners.

Visit bearwise.org to learn more.

A Flexible Option from Blue Ridge Energy

With the colder weather upon us, energy use generally increases for most homeowners. Blue Ridge Energy offers a Budget Billing Program designed to give heating fuel customers set monthly payments (interest free) and the convenience of auto-fill delivery service. If you meet the eligibility requirements of Budget Billing, you can make the same payment 11 months of the year, then “even up” in the 12th month. According to Blue Ridge Energy, “Working together, we review your energy usage patterns and current cost of fuel to determine your annual fuel expenses.” Having a set payment can make it easier for families to plan their household budgets. However, if you have changes in your heating system or usage, your payment can be adjusted at any time if it’s set too low or too high. To learn more, visit blueridgeenergy.com, and to sign up for Budget Billing, call 1-800-451-5474.

Halloween Fun at Williams YMCA

The Williams YMCA of Avery County will host its annual family-friendly “Halloween at the Y” community celebration on Thursday, October 22, at the Blackburn Athletic Facility. This popular event features indoor trunk-ortreat stations, games, and bounce houses. Local organizations and emergency services (including Avery County EMS) host themed booths and hand out candy; participants of all ages will enjoy interactive games and festive character booths inside the gym. Visit ymcaavery.com for more details. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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Happy Autumn from all of us at PHOTO BY TODD BUSH

Carolina Mountain Life

Hunter’s Tree Service, Inc. Hunter’s Tree Service, Inc. has served the High Country since 1980. Our mission is to provide you with skilled tree care and outstanding customer service, while caring for one of your most valuable resources. As your complete tree specialist, we offer a range of services:

WE ARE FULLY INSURED AND PROVIDE CERTIFICATES Consistently voted OF theINSURANCE. “Best of the Best” Liquor store in the area

Pruning View enhancement Tree removal Stump grinding Bucket truck service Crane service Cabling Lightning protection Pre-construction consultation Disease and pest control

POB 1674, Banner Elk NC 28604 / 828-733-3320 or 828-953-5094 hunterstreeserviceinc.com

Wine and Liquor

Largest Whiskey selection in the area SINGLE BARREL-STORE PICKS AVAILABLE Knob Creek 10 year Cask Strength Bourbon Rebel 100 Proof bottled in Bond Wheated Makers Mark Cask Strength Single Barrel

Come try our free sample bar!

Largest Sunday: 10AM - 7PM Whiskey Selection Monday-Saturday: 9AM - 11PM in theElizabethton, Area TN 37643 1933 W. Elk Avenue, 423-542-9463

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Consistently voted the “Best of the Best” Liquor store in the area. 114 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE 120

Our New Single Barrel Store Picks: Four Roses Single Barrel • Castle & Key Cask Strength Makers Mark Cask Strength Single Barrel • Elijah Craig Single Barrel • Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Proof Rye • Old Forester Barrel Strength • Knob Creek Single Barrel Cask Strength • Hulling Station Single Barrel Straight Wheat.

Come try our Free Sample Bar! Mon - Sat: 8am - 11pm | Sun: 10am - 7pm

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‘ Banner Elk

Boone

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Military Surplus Knives • Tools Camping & Sporting Goods Collectibles & More “Your Military & Outdoor Store” 150 Linville St., Newland NC 28657 828-733-3600

Voted Best of the Best in Avery County

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397 Shawneehaw Ave (NC184), Suite A Across from Edge of the World Banner Elk NC 28604

SUSHI BISTRO AND BAR Tuesday-Saturday Dine-In: 4pm - Close | TOGO: 4pm - 8pm

161 Howard Street, Boone 828-386-1201 | www.cobosushi.com

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1817C brown 350C dark green 458C yellow 377C lt green 251C purple

Free installation estimates • Financing options 24/7 emergency services • NATE-certified technicians Unparalled commitment to quality and safety Extensive training and experience • And more!

“Reliable Comfort and Trusted Service for Over 50 Years!”

“Ask us about duct cleaning” 1600 Linville Falls Hwy | PO Box 187 | Linville, NC 28646

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Custom Hearing Protection, Mobile Audiology and Tinnitus Treatment Services

828-616-0425 | dr.jen@grandfatherhearing.com www.grandfatherhearing.com “I’LL COME TO YOU!” | AVERY AND BURKE COUNTIES

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NEW BAR & PATIO MENU AVAILABLE FROM 5pm - WALK-INS WELCOME!

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Everything Under One Woof! • Apparel, Accessories, Collars & Leashes • Frozen Raw & Freeze-Dried Foods • High Quality Dog & Cat Food • Homemade & USA Sourced Treats • Toys for Training & Play • Holistic Supplements

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176 Shawneehaw Ave. Downtown Banner Elk NC www.mybestfriendsbarkery.com

Try Our Self-Wash Service!

(828) 898-2300 Lunch • Bakery • Catering Breakfast : 7:00 am to 10:30 am

Leave the bath time mess to us. Our self-service facility is perfect for any size, age or breed.

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Agritourism in the High Country Autumn is a time of harvest, and outings with friends and family. Journey to these agritourism destinations, and many others throughout the High Country, to personally experience the beauty and bounty of our region.

Celebrating America with apple pie

All Aboard for a “Storytelling Tractor Ride”

“Hanging in There” . . . a resilient heirloom hangs on following Hurricane Helene

THE HISTORIC ORCHARD AT ALTAPASS The Orchard at Altapass is a living cultural and environmental heritage apple orchard located at milepost 328.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. “Guided by our motto, ‘Saving the Good Stuff,’ we preserve heirloom apples, steward mountain land, protect native wildlife, and celebrate southern Appalachian traditions.” Visitors enjoy mountain music and old-time dancing, storytelling tractor rides, hands-on apple and agricultural education, and a pollinator garden and Monarch butterfly habitat. Each year, many school-age children take part in activities such as apple picking, beekeeping education, monarch observation, and storytelling. “Our apple trees are taking a well-deserved break this fall following severe freeze damage during blossom season, but the Orchard remains a place where agriculture, nature, history, and culture come together.” Photos courtesy of the Orchard at Altapass

Shopping the Orchard Store

Plan your trip: Altapassorchard.org | facebook.com/TheOrchardatAltapass/ Location: 1025 Orchard Rd., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Also check out... Crossnore Heritage Orchard: A Preservation and Tasting Park crossnoreheritageorchard.com See our article on Crossnore Heritage Orchard in the Summer ‘26 issue, accessible at CMLmagazine.online.

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Milkweed and monarchs—a perfect match!

Beyond leaf looking . . .

Front row seat at the autumn Angora goat shearing

Through the Lens

“Treat, please!”

Natural fibers from the Farm

Taking in the Views

APPLE HILL FARM

Apple Hill Farm is a unique mountaintop farm, home to a variety of animals—alpacas, llamas, angora goats, zebu cattle, horses, pigs, donkeys, chickens, and livestock guardian dogs—on 40+ acres of mountaintop land in the Banner Elk area. Open year-round to the public, the farm hosts fun and educational animal experiences. In October, visitors can view the farm’s twice-a-year Angora goat shearing. Halloween is also a special time for families! “Visitors to Apple Hill Farm find joy and connection through our animals and the experience of a real working farm,” says Lee Rankin, Apple Hill Farm’s founder. “We are a diverse group of people and animals who work together, each fulfilling a unique purpose and role. Our tour guides lead the way for you to leave with a smile on your face and memories to share.” The farm includes 15 fields, 4 barns, and a farm store on 43 acres of land. Photos courtesy of Apple Hill Farm Plan your trip: Advance tickets are required to see the animals. Visit Applehillfarmnc.com and Facebook.com/applehillfarm. Location: 400 Apple Hill Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604. And visit the Apple Hill Farm Outpost for alpaca products, local food and gifts at 414 Shawneehaw Ave, downtown Banner Elk. Also check out... Shipley Farms: Offering Guided Walking Tours of a historic cattle farm. Shipleyfarmsbeef.com

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On the way to wine

Jack Wiseman tending the vineyard

Color in the vineyard

LINVILLE FALLS WINERY In the mid-1970s, Jack Wiseman began growing grapevines on a farm in Linville Falls, a small community located on mile marker 317 off the Blue Ridge Parkway. With beautiful southeast-facing slopes and a mild microclimate, Wiseman began focusing on grape varieties that thrive here in our mountains. Today, the multi-generation Wiseman family owns and operates this beautiful vineyard and winery, growing grapes characterized by higher elevation, warm days and cool evenings, all of which “give way to happy grapes, and in turn, delicious wine.” Enjoy seated wine tastings in the Tuscan-style tasting room, and tours of the vineyard—Linville Falls Winery is family friendly, including the pets. Bring a picnic, or choose from their selection of various locally made snack items. A seasonal Food Truck is occasionally on site through the end of October (find their food truck and live music schedule online). The Wiseman family also operates a choose-and-cut Christmas tree operation on the same property during the holiday season. Photos courtesy of Linville Falls Winery

Autumn Views of the Winery

Plan your trip: Linvillefallswinery.com | facebook.com/LinvilleFallsWinery/ Location: 9557 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657 Also check out the four other wineries on the N.C. High Country Wine Trail: Grandfather Vineyard & Winery (grandfathervineyard.com), Banner Elk Winery (bannerelkwinery.com), Old Barn Winery (oldbarnwinery.com), Mill Camp Wines & Ciders (millcampboone.com). Villa Nove Vineyards in Butler, TN: facebook.com/VillaNoveVineyards

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Fall Harvest

Scouting the tree field for the perfect tree is as much fun as trimming it

Trolleying through the Tree Fields

Caring for the Christmas Trees

FROSTY’S CHOOSE AND CUT TREE FARM

Take Home Tree Trimmings

A fourth-generation family business, Frosty’s Choose and Cut Tree Farm in West Jefferson provides premium Christmas Trees and an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Catch a ride on the trolley to search for your perfect tree. Climb aboard a tractor-led ride through the tree fields. Decorate your own custom wreath to take home. Warm up by the fire with a delicious beverage or grab lunch at a food truck. “Hot cider, hot chocolate, s’mores, wreaths... Frosty’s is a good place for a family outing! And... Frosty’s Choose and Cut is one of Santa’s favorite stops! Come grab a photo with him and tell him your Christmas wish.” In addition to owning Frosty’s Choose and Cut, the Sexton family runs and operates The Old Barn Winery on the property—in fact, both businesses share the same “old barn.” Photos courtesy of Frosty’s Choose and Cut Plan your trip: Gofrostys.com | facebook.com/GoFrostys Location: 2152 Beaver Creek School Rd., West Jefferson, NC 28694 Also check out... n Watauga County Christmas Tree Association: wataugachristmastrees.com n Ashe County Christmas Tree Association: ashecountychristmastrees.com n North Carolina Christmas Tree Association: ncchristmastrees.com CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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Avery County’s Dining

Catering

Celebrating 41 Years!

The High Country’s Premier Steak & Seafood Restaurant • • • • • • •

Dinner nightly from 5pm Offering both indoor and outdoor dining Live music Friday & Saturday nights Private room available Locally owned and operated “Avery County Chamber Business of the Year” Restaurant & Steak House of the Year, 5 years running

828-898-5550

344 Shawneehaw Ave. South, Banner Elk stonewallsrestaurant.com

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

Creativity, passion and culinary excellence Parties of all sizes In-home catering Fully insured and licensed Largest mobile kitchen in the High Country Caterer of the Year, 5 years running

828-898-5550

344 Shawneehaw Ave. South, Banner Elk stonewallsrestaurant.com

Best

DINING | CATERING LODGING | EVENT VENUE

Event Venue

Lodging

The High Country’s Best Vacation Rentals • • • • • •

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

828-898-3115

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com

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

Vacations, weddings, family reunions, church events, and business retreats Newly built barn with 1,700 sq. ft., and 18-ft. high ceilings Equipped with a complete catering kitchen Climate controlled barn 1,750 sq. ft. outdoor pavilion with fire pit Lodge and cabin rentals Fields, streams, and ponds Event Venue of the Year, 5 years running

828-898-3115

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk thebarnatcornerstone.com

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Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Gather for a Good Time!

Located in the Heart of Banner Elk

Indoor & Outdoor Dining Large Bar with Comfortable Seating... and a Warm Fireplace!

The Banner Elk Cafe and The Lodge Espresso Bar & Eatery Are Under One Roof! Martini Monday $10 Martini Specials

trivia tuesday Sangria Carafe $20 1/2 off Bruschetta

828-898-4040

Friday

Wednesday

Seafood Night Live Music

Music Bingo $6 Well Drinks Deep Dish Pizza Special

Prime Rib Night Live Music 6-10 pm

Entertainment Schedule & Specials: Facebook, Instagram and at bannerelkcafe.com

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thursday 75cent Wings $3 Domestic Draft Beer

saturday

Ask about our FALL Tailgate Special with Pizza & Wings!

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Premium Small Batch Honey Products Locally, Veteran & Woman Owned Company (Chris & Kaley Conner)

Offering multiple varieties of honey in many sizes and packs Homegrown Honey Craft Sodas • Whipped Honey Honey Wine Vinegars® • Honey Sticks Private labeling, wedding favors and corporate gift items available

(828) 773-9284

Angelina's Teas Apple Hill Farm Outpost Ashe County Cheese Bald Guy Brew Banner Elk Shirt Co. Birdie's Coffee & Treats Boone Drugs Inc. Common Good Co. Cove Creek Store Crop & Trade Co-op Dan'l Boone Inn El Tule Mexican Store Fred's General Mercantile Co. Front Porch Antique Market Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Ivy Cottage Collections, Inc. J & M Produce

Linville Falls General Store Mast General Store Maw's Produce Mountain Dog Coffee Mountain Grounds Coffee Mystery Hill Natives Rest Candle Shop Perry Lowe Orchards Provisions on Sugar Rocket Fizz Asheville Rooster Rock Supply Co. Shiloh General Store and Bakery Stick Boy Bread Co. The Speckled Trout Outfitters Todd Mercantile Treasure Hunter Farms Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster Wildwood Community Market

And online at www.wholehivehoney.com

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Great food for every occasion!

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DINING AND CIGAR LOUNGE

CRAFT COCKTAILS | TAPAS WEEKLY DJ | DANCING

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Southern charm with a Cajun twist www.bayoubannerelk.com

126 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

www.bayoubannerelk.com | 828-898-8952

Autumn Farmers’ Markets It’s harvest season at our local Farmers’ Markets! Please be sure to confirm these dates/ times prior to scheduling a trip. Abingdon Farmers Market Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m. through October Saturdays 10 a.m.–12 p.m. November through Christmas | 100 Remsburg Drive, downtown Abingdon, VA Alleghany Farmers Market Saturdays 9 a.m.–1 p.m. through October Crouse Park in downtown Sparta, NC Ashe County/West Jefferson Farmers Market Saturdays 8 a.m.–1 p.m. through November 108 Backstreet, West Jefferson, NC Avery County Farmers’ Market Thursdays 3–6 p.m. through October 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC

Beech Mountain Farmers’ Market First Fridays 2–6 p.m. through October 101 Bark Park Way, Beech Mountain, NC Blowing Rock Thursday Market Thursdays 12–4 p.m. through September 24 132 Park Ave., Blowing Rock, NC Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture’s King Street Market Tuesdays 3:30–6:30 p.m. through October at 126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. December – March at the Watauga County Agricultural Conference Center, 252 Poplar Grove Rd, Boone Damascus Farmers Market Thursdays, 4-7 p.m. through October The Speckled Trout Annex on W. Laurel Ave., Damascus, VA Johnson County Farmers’ Market Saturdays 9 a.m.–12 p.m. through October Ralph Stout Park in Mountain City, TN Lansing Park Farmers’ Market Saturdays 11 a.m.–4 p.m. through October Historic Creeper Trail Park, 114 S Big Horse Creek Rd, Lansing, NC

Morganton Farmers’ Markets Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m. through October 300 Beach St., Morganton, NC Wednesday Mini Market, 10 a.m.– 1 p.m. through October 111 North Green St., Morganton, NC Watauga County Farmers’ Market Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m. through November 591 Horn in the West Dr, Boone, NC Wilkes County/Wilkesboro Farmers’ Market Saturdays 7:30 a.m.–12 p.m. through October Holiday Markets 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Nov. 21 and Dec. 12 Yadkin Valley Marketplace in downtown N. Wilkesboro, NC Yancey County Farmers Market Saturdays 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. through midNovember 322 W. Main Street, downtown Burnsville, NC High Country Food Hub, operated by Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture (BRWIA) A year-round online farmers’ market where you can order items and pick them up at one of seven convenient locations throughout Ashe, Avery, Watauga and Wilkes counties. highcountryfoodhub.org

MOUNTAIN VISTA WINDOW WASHING We are the highest reviewed window washing company in the High Country. Here at Mountain Vista Window Washing, we take pride in our attention to detail. Whether you are looking for residential window washing, gutter cleaning, commercial window washing, or pressure washing, we've got you covered. We service Boone, Blowing Rock, Valle Crucis, Foscoe, Banner Elk and anywhere else in the North Carolina High Country you need.

(828)-434-5299 mountainvistawinwash.com

On time at services.

Guaranteed Satisfaction. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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From CML’s Kitchen

R E C I P E S

With our guest chef, Sherri Pengjad

TOM KHA GAI COCONUT CHICKEN SOUP

PUMPKIN STIR-FRY

INGREDIENTS:

2 stalks lemongrass 3 inch section of fresh Thai galangal or 6-8 dried galangal pieces, thinly cut, no need to peel 4 c. chicken stock 1 13.5 oz can coconut milk (Chaokoh brand is my favorite) 1 lb. chicken breast, cut into small bite-size pieces 2 c. sliced mushrooms of your choice, but not shitake (too overpowering) 1 small onion quartered and sliced 1/4 in. thick 4-8 Thai chilies, smashed so you can see the inside 4 fresh kaffir lime leaves, thinly slivered 4-6 tbsp. fish sauce, to taste Juice of 3 limes, to taste 1-2 tbsp. palm sugar or brown sugar, to taste Handful of cilantro leaves DIRECTIONS: • Cut off the bottom of your lemongrass stalks and discard. Remove the loose outer layer of leaves. Slice lemongrass at an angle, about an inch apart up to where the grass blade starts.

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• Smash the lemongrass and chilies, in order to release the flavors, with the side of your chef’s knife or in a mortar and pestle. • Place lemongrass, thinly sliced galangal, and slivered kaffir lime leaves in soup pot with chicken broth.

1 small kabocha squash (about 2.5 lbs), don’t have to peel it unless you want to, OR 1 butternut squash, peeled

• Bring to a low boil.

1 tbsp oyster sauce

• Add onion, mushrooms and chicken. If you think it needs more liquid add more chicken stock, or water.

2-3 cups chicken broth or water

• Keep at a low boil, until chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. • After chicken is cooked, add smashed chilies. • Cook for 2-3 minutes longer and then turn off the heat. But if you really want it spicy, add the chilies sooner. The longer the chilies sit in the soup, the spicier it will be.

3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced 4 eggs, beaten 1 tbsp fish sauce

1/4 tsp white pepper powder handful of coarsely chopped cilantro DIRECTIONS: • Use the sharpest knife you have to cut the pumpkin or squash into quarters, and remove the seeds. Then cut into 1-inch-ish cubes. • Add a few tablespoons of oil to your wok over medium-high heat, and add the garlic.

• Add coconut milk, lime juice, fish sauce and sugar to taste.

• Stir-fry garlic for a minute or so until fragrant.

• Sprinkle cilantro leaves on top.

• Add pumpkin, fish sauce and oyster sauce, and enough chicken broth or water to cover it. Some pumpkin pieces

• Serve with jasmine rice. Enjoy! Serving Size: 4-5

R E C I P E S

SLOW COOKER MASSAMAN BEEF INGREDIENTS: may be sticking up, but that’s ok. Put a lid over the wok. • Bring to a boil, and let boil for 5-8 minutes or until pumpkin is fork-tender, and most of the liquid has evaporated. My Thai Hubby likes to have enough liquid left for a sauce, but do what you prefer. • Push the pumpkin to the edges to make a well in the center of the wok. • Pour in the eggs and scramble until set, and then mix in with pumpkin. • Add more fish sauce or oyster sauce to taste, and sprinkle with white pepper powder, and turn off the heat. Sprinkle cilantro on top if you wish, and enjoy with jasmine rice! Sherri Pengjad is a Boone-based Thai cooking teacher and the food writer behind Thai-Foodie.com. After living in Thailand and marrying her Thai hubby, she fell in love with learning to cook the dishes his family loves. Now, from her log-cabin kitchen in the Blue Ridge Mountains, she shares authentic Thai recipes while raising their four ThaiAmerican children. Oh! and did we mention that she also teaches Thai cooking through her private, hands-on classes.

1/2 cup homemade or store bought Massaman curry paste 1 can coconut milk 3 lbs lean beef stew meat, chopped into bite sized pieces 4 white, waxy potatoes, cut into 2-inch-ish cubes 1 sweet potato, peeled or unpeeled, cut into 2-inch-ish cubes 1 small white onion, cut into strips 1/2 cup peanuts 2-3 tbsp fish sauce 1-2 tsp sugar 1-2 tbsp tamarind paste DIRECTIONS: • Mix together 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Massaman curry paste and 1 can coconut milk in your crockpot. • Add 3 lbs lean beef stew meat, 4 white, waxy potatoes, 1 sweet potato, and 1 small white onion. I like to cook it low and slow for 8 hours, but cooking it on high for 4-6 hours works fine too. • Once it’s done, sprinkle 1/2 cup peanuts over it, then add 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce, 1-2 teaspoons sugar, and 1-2 tablespoons tamarind paste, to taste.

made with passion! • Serve with jasmine rice and your favorite veggie dish like Thai Vegetable Stir-Fry!

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

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Thank You!

130 — Autumn ‘26 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFEE

Get outside. Get

Folks come to Grandfather Mountain for all sorts of reasons — from a family getaway to the thrill of the Mile High Swinging Bridge. But after a day on the mountain, and in the interactive Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, everyone leaves inspired.

g ra n d fa t h e r. co m NEW

Inspired.

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN ®

Wonders Never Cease CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Autumn ‘26 —

Yonni’s Clubhouse — for young explorers NOW OPEN

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