CarolinaMountainLife-Summer2026

2026 UPCOMING EVENTS

June 3 – Sept. 2 Wednesdays: Grillin’ & Chillin’ Concerts

July 4: Summit Crawl & Fireworks

August 15 & 16: Gravity Carolinas Mountain Bike Competition

Cover shot by Meagan Goheen

Creating recipes for our “From CML’s Kitchen” column is always fun, challenging and full of surprises. The cover shot from Meagan’s celebratory picnic involved the whole family, who were thrilled to sample her delicious summer salads—more fun ensued when they had to chase the family dog, who had run off with a loaf of sourdough bread!

We hope our cover inspires you to try the recipes on pages 144-145 and pack a picnic basket to share with your favorite people. Enjoy these lovely summer days as we celebrate America 250 all season long!

What’s Inside:

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 Kathy Griewisch, Account Manager

Meagan Goheen, Marketing Manager

Tamara S. Randolph, Managing Editor Keith Martin, Cultural Arts Editor

Contributors: Edwin Ansel, Estelle Brewer, Jim Casada, Kim S. Davis

Julie Farthing, Brennan Ford, Morgan Ford, Gail Greco

Elizabeth Baird Hardy, Michael C. Hardy, Douglas Hundley Paul Laurent, Tom McAuliffe, Karen Rieley, Doris Stam Joe Tennis, Carol Lowe Timblin, Dedy Traver, 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 cmlbabette@gmail.com CMLmagazine.online 828-964-0009

Celebrating America 250 while living in the moment

Recently, I walked with one of my sons along a path to the woods near both of our homes to experience our own private fireworks show—but not with your typical loud explosives. This was merely a dance of light, featuring a cast of thousands of fireflies putting on their grand opening celebration of summer.

It was magical and enchanting. It turned my calendar back thirty years as I remembered the feeling of joy watching my son and his siblings running and playing with fireflies in our yard on countless summer nights.

My son recounted these memories as well; it was a trip back in time for both of us.

Such memories run deep and are reignited each summer when nature admonishes all of us to turn down the volume of life and just be still.

I felt that night that these “delightful” creatures tutor me to shine in the moment. It was truly an ephemeral experience—short-lived but locked close to the heart in my memory bank.

I promise myself this summer to slow down, enjoy our natural surroundings, and remember those beautiful nights and their experiences that cannot be captured and held; they are released as memories that last for generations.

My granddaughters witnessed the synchronous fireflies at the inaugural event at Grandfather Mountain several years ago, and now they have that memory to recharge them each time they close their eyes and think of that special night.

In addition to firefly-lit nights, there are countless opportunities to entertain us. We have packed this issue full of possibilities. From the star-studded offerings of An Appalachian Summer Festival, The Appalachian Theatre, Lees-McRae’s Forum and venerable Summer Theatre, Parkway Playhouse, and Mayland Earth to Sky Park, to the vast array of music venues, art galleries, museums, historical landmarks, trails, waterways and lakes . . . and the list goes on and on.

We hope you will keep this copy of CML close—whether next to your calendar, in your car, home or office—as your guide to experience all the wonders that make this region a special place to live, play and visit. And be sure to tell our advertisers you discovered them in CML and thank them for your free issue of our magazine.

Happy 250th Birthday, America!

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

From Our Readers:

“... it is just fun to read through and see how MUCH is going on in the area. And I love that you cover a wider scope than just the High Country, e.g. Abingdon. Their farmers’ market is really something, thanks to all the Amish, Mennonite, and hippie farmers in that area. The Think Inside the Box story [Spring ‘26] was excellent, with the Zero Waste Box tip. Likewise, I love seeing how the Daniel Boone Native Gardens have expanded their programming over the years.” - N.C.

“My wife and I bought a mountain home a little over a year ago (up in Sugar Mtn). . . Thanks so much—we had an issue from Autumn and it helped spur our decision to buy up there!” - S.B.

“I enjoy your magazine and look forward to picking up the [next] edition when we come to Boone next month. I have been all over this country and think the Blue Ridge area is the best, especially Grandfather Mountain, my favorite place. We look forward to visiting twice a year, at least, now that my wife and I are retired. Thanks for a great magazine.” - J.S.

Correction: In our Spring ‘26 issue, we featured “Singing on Grandfather,” an annual Gospel Music and Worship Festival. The host of the original 1924 event was Joseph Hartley (rather than John Hartley, as was referenced in the article on page 45). Learn more about this event at SingingOnGrandfather.com

Behind the Curtain:

Get to Know Our Contributors

Dedy Traver

Dedy Traver, a native of Rhode Island, moved to Sugar Mountain, NC, in 1972 from Atlanta, GA, where she worked for an advertising agency. She attended Brenau College in Gainesville, GA, receiving a degree in Home Economics. Dedy is a member of Holy Cross Church and is active in the vocal and handbell choirs. Although a first-time writer for CML, she writes for the church’s newsletter a column entitled “Notes from the Attic,” sharing the history of Valle Crucis and the vital role of the church. Dedy is an avid golfer, frequently seen at the Sugar Mountain Golf Course—and especially loves hole five, “Dedy’s Fifth”!

See her article, The Greatest Show on Earth, on page 123

Photo: Dedy, seen here at the Valle Country Fair, is known by many as “The Jelly Queen” for her famous jams and jellies; photo by Bob Griffin.

Douglas Hundley

Douglas has worked in horticulture for 50 years. He was employed by the Avery County Cooperative Extension Center for 25 years, until retiring in 2016. His primary responsibility was the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program for Christmas trees and Native Ornamentals. At the same time, he helped with the Avery County Extension Plant Sale. This second project led him to the study of heirloom apples with the help of many older Avery County landowners who had historic apple trees. In 1995, he began working with Lee Calhoun, author of “Old Southern Apples.” Since retirement he manages his own preservation apple orchard and nursery, growing heirloom and cider apple varieties.

See Douglas’s article, Let Me Introduce You to a Living Library of Heirloom Apples in Crossnore! on page 126.

Doris Stam

A strong connection to Valle Crucis farmland began when Doris was six, riding her uncle’s horse on Clark’s Creek. Her mountain roots run deep, with ancestors who started Mast Store and founded Appalachian State University. As part of the Contributions to Southern Appalachian Studies series by McFarland Publishers, Doris’ recent book on the origins and early years of App State has won several awards. A native of Greensboro, she holds a degree in Music Education from Chapel Hill, and a master’s in Theological Studies from Southern Seminary. Doris finds joy in tennis and horses, family and faith, yardwork and her goldendoodle.

See her article, Howell Cook: “Mr. Valle Crucis,” on page 128.

AWE-INSPIRING BOONE IS RELYING ON US

Locals and visitors alike have been captivated by Boone’s natural awe-inspiring beauty, from its endless scenic vistas and fresh mountain air to its forested trails and rushing waterfalls.

We all have a responsibility to preserve the awe for those enjoying its beauty today and for those discovering it tomorrow.

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL

Compiled by Karen Rieley

Summer in the North Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee High Country is a refreshing escape from the lowlands’ heat with mild, pleasant temperatures (highs in the 70- to 80-degree range), low humidity and cool evenings. The area offers much to do for residents and visitors of all ages.

Following, you’ll find a sampling of the many opportunities to experience summertime in the High Country—including a wide selection of America 250 events! And please see our “Cultural Calendar,” “Art Remarks,” “Music Guide,” “Trail Reports,” and “Tidbits” elsewhere in this issue for details on many other opportunities. (Before you head out, please be sure to check with each entity for schedule changes and additional information.)

Come for a week and you’ll find yourself staying for the summer!

Bigfoots Baseball | June Through August 1 in Boone, NC

The High Country’s baseball “home team” continues its sixth season of family fun and winning Bigfoots tradition! The Boone Bigfoots team practices and home games are held on Appalachian State University’s Beaver Field at Jim and Bettie Smith Stadium in Boone. Game times are Monday through Saturday, 6:30 p.m.; Sunday, 4:30 p.m.; July 4, 3:30 p.m. The regular season runs May 28 through August 1. The AllStar event will be held on July 6 through 7 and Playoffs on August 2 through 10. The Bigfoots provide competitive baseball and fun fan entertainment for all the High Country to enjoy—all profits generated go to the Appalachian State University Athletic Scholarship Fund. Find a complete Boone Bigfoots Home Game schedule at bigfootsbaseball. com and on their Facebook page.

Family Fun Night | Through mid-August in Beech Mountain, NC

Join this family friendly outdoor event at The Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria, every Friday night from June through mid-August. Enjoy live music (5:30 to 8:45 p.m.), a bounce house (4 to 7:30 p.m.) and outdoor movies (8:45 p.m.). The event is free with food and beverage available for purchase inside. (All events are weather dependent.) Live music will be performed by Sound Traveler. beechmtn.com/event/family-funnight-3-10

Roots in the Garden Summer Concert Series

Through August 20 in Boone, NC

Head over to Daniel Boone Native Gardens, 651 Horn in The West Dr., for the fourth year of the free, family-friendly Roots in the Garden

concert series! Concerts will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and will also feature visual artists, with their work auctioned off at the end of the evenings. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Picnics are welcome, and food trucks are onsite. Please note, no dogs or glass containers in the Gardens. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair for seating. Concerts include June 18, MAMA; July 16, Holler Choir; July 30, DaShawn Hickman & Sacred Steel; and August 20, TANASI. All proceeds will support the Gardens’ mission to provide education to the public about native plants; conserve the plants in their collection; and encourage environmental stewardship through beautification, restoration, sustainability, and the conservation of natural resources. danielboonenativegardens.org/music

Mile High Yoga | Through September 6 in Beech Mountain, NC

Elevate your practice at 5,506 feet. Take in the views and reset your mind with an unforgettable open-air yoga session at Beech Mountain Resort, open to all skill levels. Sessions are every Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Your ticket includes the lift ride up and back, plus the one-hour class. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance as class sizes are limited and often sell out. beechmountainresort.com/summer/yoga

Wildcat Lake | Through September 7 in Banner Elk, NC

Owned and operated by Lees-McRae College, Wildcat Lake is a premier attraction in Banner Elk that includes a 13-acre white sandy beach with a swimming area and two docks for fishing and wildlife observation. In addition, there are four rental shelters with grills, perfect for family gatherings or summer parties. Nearby are a volleyball court, playground sets, and public restrooms. Outdoor equipment is available for rent through Wildcat Lake Rentals, an experiential learning endeavor run by students in the Lees-McRae Outdoor Recreation Management program.

The lake is open for swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m. When permitted, fishing is allowed during daylight hours at Wildcat Lake anywhere other than the beach/swimming area. All North Carolina fishing rules and regulations apply. A valid North Carolina fishing license is required and can be purchased at the Banner Elk Food Lion. lmc.edu/ community/wildcat-lake.htm

Continued on next page

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

Banner House Museum Tours

Through September 19 in Banner Elk, NC

Experience 19th century life in Banner Elk and the High Country in the home of Samuel Henry Banner, one of Banner Elk’s early settlers, his wife, Jane Hyder Banner, and their seven children. The circa 1870 house has been furnished with period heirlooms donated and loaned by area residents to tell the story of Banner Elk life from the 1870s to the 1900s. Additionally, an Exhibition Room highlights local history. The Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation offers weekly guided tours of the Banner House Museum, Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with guided museum tours offered 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and a “listening hour” to record oral histories from 2 to 3 p.m. The last tour begins at 2:30. bannerhousemuseum.org

The Orchard at Altapass | Through early November

The Orchard at Altapass aims to preserve the history, heritage and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains; protect the underlying orchard land with its apples, wetlands, butterflies, and other natural features; and educate the public about the Appalachian experience. This summer, check out all the many activities onsite: stroll through the heirloom apple orchards, take a tractor ride, shop at the General Store, enjoy live music and dancing, explore the pollinator garden, see the model trains exhibit, and dine at the Apple Core Grill. The Orchard at Altapass is open Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., now through November 1. altapassorchard.org

Hickory Ridge Living History Museum Tours

Through mid-November in Boone, NC

Hickory Ridge History Museum is located in the heart of Boone, sharing the grounds with “Horn in the West,” the nation’s longest-running Revolutionary War outdoor drama. The museum displays some of the oldest building structures in the area and was created in 1980 to foster a better understanding of the life of the settlers depicted in the drama.

Purchase tickets for your tour at the Gift Shop, then be guided through a collection of authentic log cabins by a knowledgeable docent and historian who will give you a very interesting understanding of what life on the frontier was like in the mid-to-late 1700s.

During the Horn in the West season, the museum is open from 5 to 7:30 p.m. for self-guided tours. Volunteers are in each cabin demonstrating a skill or lifestyle and are available for questions, photos and more. horninthewest.com

Johnson County America 250

Through November in various locations, TN

Johnson County, Tennessee, is celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary in the way it knows best—through music, heritage, storytelling, faith, patriotism and community traditions that have shaped its home for generations. Pick up your America 250 Passport at the locations and events with the American flag displayed, collect stamps across the county and enjoy special souvenirs along the way, while supplies last. Events include Johnson County Freedom Week at First Christian Church, June 28 through July 4; America 250 Art Exhibit opening at Johnson County Center for the Arts, July 3; America 250 Celebration and July 4th Main Street Parade in Mountain City, July 4; VFW Post 6908 Poker Run on Bicycles, starting in Damascus, VA, and finishing in Mountain City, TN, July 4; VFW Post 6908 First Responder Tug of War, Freedom Mud Run, and Family Fun Zone, July 4; Mountain City Sunflower Festival at Johnson County High School, July 11; Old Butler Days at Selma Babe Curtis Park, August 21-22; 3rd Annual First Responder Ribfest, Chamber Park, Mountain City, September 5; and War Bonds: The Songs & Letters of World War II at Heritage Hall Theatre, September 19. visitmountaincitytn.com

Living History Saturday: Daniel Boone & the Long Hunters

June 27 in Butler, TN

Visit the Museum of Butler for a special Living History Saturday with a journey back to the frontier days of the Watauga Valley, presented by historical interpreter Grant Hardin, from 12-2 p.m. Long before roads and towns, these mountains were shaped by the footsteps of long hunters and explorers like Daniel Boone—men who forged the earliest paths through this rugged land. Through engaging storytelling and authentic interpretation, this America 250 project allows you to experience what life was really like on the early frontier and how these journeys helped shape our region’s history. Bring a chair, stay awhile and enjoy an afternoon of Appalachian heritage brought to life. Museum Hours: Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m. museumofbutlertn.org

Tea with Dorothy & Aunt Em

June through August in Beech Mountain, NC

New for 2026, the Land of Oz introduces a more intimate, storydriven add-on experience called “Tea with Dorothy and Aunt Em.” Dorothy and Aunt Em are throwing a tea party to celebrate their neighbors’ brand new barn… and you’re invited. Designed as a quieter companion to the larger-scale festival, the experience invites guests to spend

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

time with Dorothy in a Kansas-inspired setting, complete with a live performance featuring familiar characters from her home life. From there, the story continues with a guided stroll along the Yellow Brick Road, where the tone shifts from warm nostalgia to playful tension, with a few surprise encounters woven into the journey. The offering gives guests a closer, more personal way to step into the world of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz beyond the main Autumn at Oz experience. Landofoznc.com

Avery County Heritage Festival | June 27 in Newland, NC

Hosted by the Avery County Historical Society and Avery County Genealogy Society, this year’s annual festival celebrates America 250, with patriotic music by the Avery Community Band, craft vendors, local book authors, and food trucks. Family historians present genealogy and stories that honor their ancestors. History reenactments and demonstrations take place throughout the day. Enjoy a full lineup of musicians and cloggers. The Avery County Heritage Festival is free and takes place “on the square” in Newland. Hours are 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. facebook. com/Avery250/, facebook.com/AveryCountyGenealogySociety

Mayland Earth to Sky Park Summer Shows

July through September near Burnsville, NC

The Mayland Earth to Sky Park is an environmental educational park operated by Mayland Community College, with an observatory and planetarium offering unique opportunities to learn about the natural world. As an International Dark Sky Park, the grounds are open to the public with 24-hour access to the parking area for stargazing.

The Glenn and Carol Arthur Planetarium has a 36-ft, 360-degree projection dome, which hosts weekly shows—from traditional astronomy to STEM related programs. The Bare Dark Sky Observatory is home to the largest public telescope in the southeast, the “Sam Scope”—a 34-inch Newtonian telescope offering exceptional views of the cosmos. Community Viewing Nights are held year-round.

Tew summer hours are Thursday through Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy popular shows, such as “James Webb Space Telescope: The Story Unfolds” at 4 p.m. on Saturdays, or experience a Laser Show featuring different artists every month! Guests can also explore the Visitors’ Center, pollinator gardens, and more. Facebook.com/EarthToSkyPark

Christmas In July | July 3-4 in Downtown West Jefferson, NC

The Christmas In July Festival is a free-admission event held in downtown West Jefferson featuring the very best in traditional

mountain music and regional handmade arts and crafts, while celebrating the Ashe County Christmas Tree industry. Numerous food vendors offer a variety of delicious festival favorites. Children’s activities, roving performers, fun competitions, and a Saturday Farmers’ Market are also part of the festival each year. Enjoy the special America 250 fireworks celebration from downtown West Jefferson on Saturday from 9:30-10 p.m. christmasinjulyfestival.com

Stars, Stripes & Strings | July 3 in Downtown Spruce Pine, NC

Celebrate Independence Day in the mountains at Star, Stripes, and Strings, a community event featuring live music, a hometown parade, local makers, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and a downtown fireworks show to close out the night. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge, this event brings together residents and visitors for a laidback, small-town celebration of the Fourth of July. discoversprucepinenc.com/festivals-events/stars-stripes-and-strings

Summit Crawl | July 4 in Sugar Mountain, NC

Sugar Mountain Resort’s 10th annual Summit Crawl, 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive, is a fun and competitive event where you’ll climb via foot to Sugar’s 5,300’ peak as fast as you can by way of Easy Street, Gunther’s Way, and Northridge slopes. Distance is approximately 6,500 ft. or 1.2 miles, with a vertical climb of 1,200 ft. Registration deadline is Tuesday, June 30, 4 p.m.— register in-person Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., or online. Food and beverages will be available, with Classic Highway performing live from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Other events throughout the day include lift rides, mountain biking, evening music, food & beverages, and a mountain-top fireworks show, sponsored by the Village of Sugar Mountain Tourism Development Authority, beginning around 9 p.m. skisugar.com/crawl

Fourth of July Festivities | July 4 in Beech Mountain

With various activities organized and hosted by the Town of Beech Mountain, the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce, Beech Mountain Resort, Beech Mountain Parks and Rec, the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, and the Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria, families will enjoy a full day of Fourth of July fun on this special occasion, including:

The Mile High Kite Festival and Water Party, co-sponsored by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and Beech Mountain Parks & Rec, invites families to a fun-filled celebration featuring Slip & Slides, Yard Games, Water Games, and “KITES... lots of kites!” (Note: the annual

Continued on next page

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL

Memorial Day Kite Festival at Beech Mountain was “stormed” out this past May.) Kite activities take place in the meadow behind Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria, with kite-flying, kite demonstrations, food, crafts, and music. The giant slip-n-slide is located on Beech Mountain’s public sledding hill. This free, 100-foot slip ’n slide is fun for all the kids. There will be a special water slide for ages 6 and under as well. Activities will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (weather dependent). averycounty.com/ mile-high-kite-festival/, beechmtn.com/event/july-4th-water-party Independence Day Celebration & 55th Annual Hog Roast takes place at Beech Mountain Resort on the Play Yard slope, 5 to 9 p.m., located just outside the lodge. The evening will feature a variety of family-friendly activities, food, vendors and a fireworks display at dusk. The Pressley Laton Band will perform throughout the evening, alongside DJ Pete Welter. Children will enjoy inflatables, face painting, and balloon creations by Twist the Balloon Man. Inside the lodge, the Hog Roast fundraiser offers slow-cooked barbeque pork and turkey plates for purchase. A full bar is also available with beer, wine and cocktails available throughout the evening. Fireworks begin at dusk. beechmtn.com/event/ independence-day-celebration-55th-annual-hog-roast, beechmountainresort.com/event/independence-day-celebration-with-fireworks

The Brick Oven Pizzeria celebrates the Fourth of July with a live performance by Adam Church, 5:30 to 8:45 p.m. and a bounce house, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. The event is free with food and beverage available for purchase inside. (All events are weather dependent.) famousbrickoven.com

4th of July Parade and Festival | July 4 in Downtown Blowing Rock, NC

Billed as one of the best small-town holiday parades around, the free parade and festival fill the town, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with games and music at Memorial Park. Local families, musicians, organizations, and characters celebrate the holiday with a patriotic procession down Main Street. After the parade, enjoy live music, holiday shopping and dining around town. blowingrock.com/july4th

Other Independence Day Celebrations

July 4 throughout the High Country Parades, kids’ activities, fun runs, food, beverages, live music and fireworks celebrate the 4th of July in numerous High Country communities in NC, VA and TN. Festivities occur throughout the week and weekend, depending on where you decide to celebrate. Check out: bannerelk.com, bannerelk.org, beechmountainresort.com, skisugar.com, blowingrock.com/july4th/, exploreboone.com, facebook.com/thetownof-

newland, ashechamber.com, yanceychamber.com, mitchellcountychamber.org, visitdamascus.org, exploreelkin.com, visitabingdonvirginia.com, tourcartercounty.com, johnsoncountytn.gov/calendar-of-events, and highcountryhost.com. Additional links to our area’s Chambers of Commerce and Tourism Development Authorities can be found on our website at cmlmagazine.online.

Art on the Greene

July 4-5, August 1-2, September 5-6 in Banner Elk, NC

The area in front of the Historic Banner Elk School comes to life with Art on the Greene, featuring quality, hand-made arts and crafts from select local and regional artisans. The annual shows occur on Fourth of July weekend, an early August weekend, and Labor Day weekend, and are filled with fine art from local and regional artists representing a variety of media, such as ceramics, glass, metal, wood, watercolor, acrylics and oil. Over 60 juried artists display their work at each event. Inside the school, BE Artists Gallery displays the artwork and fine crafts of more than 30 local artisans.

There is no admission fee for shoppers, and the event is held rain or shine from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festivities include food vendors and other entertainment in the heart of the village of Banner Elk, which allows patrons to make a day of it by visiting shops and boutiques in town and selecting from an impressive list of restaurants. Proceeds from the shows are used for restoration of the Historic Banner Elk School, built in 1939. townofbannerelk.org/art-on-the-greene, bannerelk.com

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games | July 9-12 in Linville, NC

High in the Mountains of Western North Carolina, the ancient Celtic spirit beckons. Answering the call, as hundreds of tartan banners unfurl, are the sounds of bagpipes echoing through the valley, and once again, thousands of kilt-clad Scots make their way to MacRae Meadows for their annual gathering and games. Nowhere in the New World is there a place more reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands than the home of America’s grandest Highland Games—Grandfather Mountain, NC. Enjoy Scottish music, dancing, foods, costumes, parades, track & field games, sheep herding and much more. For tickets, detailed schedules, maps, and information on lodging, parking and shuttle buses, visit gmhg.org. And see our article The Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans, elsewhere in this issue.

Annual Fairy Day in the Gardens | July 11 in Boone, NC

Enjoy an enchanting afternoon in the Daniel Boone Native Gardens,

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

1 to 5 p.m., with vendors, food and fairies! Fun and educational activities for kids plus music and dance are sure to provide a magical experience for all. Admission is free for children and adults dressed in mythical attire, $3 for non-costumed adults. Admission proceeds and a portion of vendor proceeds benefit the Daniel Boone Native Gardens, a nonprofit garden which highlights the importance of native plants. The gardens are located at 651 Horn in the West Drive in Boone. Stop by after a trip to the nearby Watauga County Farmers’ Market. danielboonenativegardens.org/fairyday

Symphony on the Mountain: Appalachian Ski Mtn Symphony Concert

July 17 in Blowing Rock, NC

Founded in 1987, the Symphony has been hosted at Chetola Resort for nearly four decades, becoming a signature experience for Blowing Rock and a cherished tradition for residents and visitors alike. This year, the Symphony Concert relocates to Appalachian Ski Mountain, reflecting a long-term vision to enhance the overall experience, expand opportunities, and ensure the continued success of the Symphony event for years to come.

The Symphony remains a cornerstone of Blowing Rock’s summer season, bringing together the community for an unforgettable evening of music, fellowship, and mountain charm. This year’s theme is “Americana,” celebrating our country’s 250th year, and will feature special guest Jake Hoot (Winner 2019-The Voice). Bristol Lightning, a band consisting of five-time Grammy nominee Dave Eggar and his award-winning trio, kicks off the music at 5:30 p.m., with the Symphony performance at 7:30 p.m. The evening ends with a stunning fireworks display. Ticket information at symphonyonthemountain.org.

Ashe County Bluegrass and Old Time Fiddlers Convention

July 23-25 in Jefferson, NC

Ashe County Arts Council is committed to preserving and honoring the musical heritage of our region, and each year hosts a full weekend of music. Proceeds from the Fiddlers Convention are used to support the Junior Appalachian Musicians Program (JAM) for students in grades 3 through 8.

The 55th Annual Fiddlers Convention will kick off on Thursday evening with a free square dance at the Ashe Arts Center; on Friday evening, enjoy a concert with the Blue Ridge Opry at the Ashe Civic Center. A live Radio Show, along with individual instrumental and band competitions, will be held on Saturday at Ashe Park, with $4,350 in prize money available to the winners. ashefiddlersconvention.org/fiddlers-fest

Blowing Rock Tour of Homes | July 24 in Blowing Rock

The 2026 Blowing Rock Tour of Homes, sponsored by St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church, is back for its 68th year. Four lovely and unique homes on Chestnut Street will be available for viewing. The tour begins at 9 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m. All profits from the tour go to High Country charitable groups. In addition to the tour, there will be a bake sale and a Timeless Treasures tent in the church yard. Lunch will be offered at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM). You can also view Ben Long Frescoes at Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1218 Main Street. stmaryofthehills.org/tourofhomes

Chetola Resort’s Toast & Taste Festival | July 24-26 in Blowing Rock

The inaugural Chetola Resort Toast & Taste Festival celebrates culinary and beverage excellence in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Gather on the historic 75-acre property for a series of curated tastings, live music, and outdoor experiences around Chetola Lake. The award-winning Chetola culinary team will be joined by guest chefs and premier beverage partners from across the region. Explore a diverse landscape of food, beverages, a local farmers’ market, boutique shopping, and the natural serenity that defines Blowing Rock. Tickets at Chetola.com/Toast.

Art in the Park | July 25 through October 3 in Blowing Rock, NC

Blowing Rock Art in the Park on July 25, August 15, September 12 and October 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., celebrates six decades of shows. Enjoy fine art and handcrafts from award-winning and acclaimed artisans. Artists are jury-selected and each show features a different set of artists, curated to present a wide variety of mediums. Find gifts and works for personal collections, functional beauties like furniture and cutlery, and wearable art like handcrafted jewelry and textiles. Artists’ tents line Park Avenue in downtown Blowing Rock. Attendees can enjoy proximity to other shopping, as well as dining options and local parks.

Make a weekend of it and stay for the free outdoor Concert in the Park at Memorial Park, held on the Sundays that follow each Art in the Park event: July 26, August 16 and September 13, 1-3 p.m. The concert is free, family-friendly and casual. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.  blowingrock.com/artinthepark

Mineral and Gem Shows | July 26 – August 2 in Spruce Pine, NC

Mitchell County has a long history as a hub for rocks and minerals—this region is well known for its mining heritage. So, it’s the perfect

Continued on next page

REGIONAL HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

location for several events that feature our earth’s natural treasures.

During the week of July 26-August 2, gem and mineral enthusiasts will have multiple opportunities to treasure hunt, starting with the Grassy Creek Mineral and Gem Show at the Parkway Volunteer Fire and Rescue Event Grounds (136 Majestic View, Spruce Pine, NC). This annual outdoor event is a community staple, with dozens of tents offering quality gems and minerals for sale. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (ending at 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 2). Grassycreekgemshow.org

Later in the week, beginning July 30 and running through August 2, the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce sponsors the annual NC Mineral and Gem Festival. This popular event, which has been running since 1959, takes place at the Three Peaks Enrichment Center (97 Pinebridge Ave.) and several other venues in the downtown Spruce Pine area. Festival hours are Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, 12:30-5 p.m. It’s a wonderful week of celebrating, shopping, exploring and even touring a local working mine. ncgemfest.com

Fly Around Music & Arts Festival

July 31 through August 1 in Lansing, NC

Fly Around Fest is a two-day festival to support the building restoration fund at the old Lansing School, home to Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts. Join in the celebration of the natural beauty and musical heritage of this special corner of Western North Carolina, carrying forward the spirit of Appalachia. Year two finds the event back at Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts and Old Orchard Creek General Store. On July 31, doors open at 6 p.m. at Old Orchard Creek General Store, and on August 1 gates open at 1 p.m. at Lost Province Center. Tickets for each day are sold separately. flyaroundfest.com

Hellbender Rugby Club Hosts Summer Sevens Tournament

August 1 in Valle Crucis, NC

Founded in 2024, Hellbender Rugby Club brings high-energy, community-driven rugby players and their fans to the High Country. With players from Boone and surrounding areas in a Men’s Division and Women’s Division, the club is committed to growing the game of rugby and fostering camaraderie both on and off the pitch. This season, Hellbender Rugby hosts the Summer Sevens Tournament on Saturday, August 1, in Valle Crucis. The event will feature fast-paced, 7-a-side rugby with teams from across the Southeast, as well as food vendors, drinks, and fun for the whole family. Admission is free, and all are welcome. HellbenderRugbyClub.com/tournament

Backyard Birding Ranger Workshop | August 12

in Seven Devils, NC

Join other birding enthusiasts at The Park at Seven Devils for some backyard birding, an activity that can be done by anyone at any age. Most birders start out by identifying common birds found at their backyard bird feeders. Learn key characteristics, such as size, coloration and activity, that help you identify common backyard bird species, specifically species that visit bird feeders. By using applications like Audubon and Merlin, along with identification guides, you’ll identify other common species found here in the High Country. Binoculars are not required, but highly recommended, and there will be a quick lesson on how to properly use binoculars. The workshop will be held in the park at the Seven Devils Town Hall, 157 Seven Devils Road, 9 – 10:30 a.m. www.sevendevilsnc.gov/parks-and-recreation/page/ranger-workshopwednesday-4

WNC Bigfoot Festival | August 29 in Marion, NC

You may arrive as a skeptic, “but you’ll leave a believer” after attending the WNC Bigfoot Festival on Saturday, August 29 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Educational panels, a Bigfoot Calling Contest, and other familyfriendly activities make this the southeast’s premier Bigfoot event. Enjoy live music throughout the day; stop by the Little Foot Zone for kid-friendly fun, including inflatables and activities; explore a variety of vendors and local businesses offering Sasquatch-themed items, handmade crafts, unique gifts, and more; and savor festival-favorite eats, drinks, and treats from a mix of food vendors and local restaurants. facebook.com/wncbigfootfestival

Long Journey Home | September 4-6 in Mountain City, TN

The 101st anniversary of the historic 1925 Fiddlers’ Convention, Long Journey Home offers a weekend full of great Appalachian music beginning on Friday with Buskin’ on Main Street, a showcase of local and regional acoustic talent playing up and down Main Street, Mountain City. On Saturday, join a musical heritage tour at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Musical Heritage tour opens at Johnson County Center for the Arts Gallery on Main featuring the Long Journey Home House Band and the unveiling of the Heritage Oak History Timeline. The next stop will be the Clint Howard Farm with the Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM), followed by Jack Proffitt and Backroads Bluegrass. The day ends with the Portraits of Home at Heritage Hall Theater at 7 p.m.

The convention ends on Sunday with Traditional Sunday Singin’, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., at Heritage Hall. All events are open to the public. johnsoncountycenterforthearts.org/the-long-journey-home-festival

HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

Carolina Mountains Literary Festival & Parkway Playhouse Appalachian Playwriting Festival

September 10-13 in Burnsville, NC

These two events have merged into four days of literary immersion. Litfest takes place September 10-12, with the playwriting festival running September 11-13. The written and spoken word will reign supreme for these four days.

Litfest has become a beloved tradition in Burnsville, with authors reading and chatting in intimate downtown settings. Most events, except for the keynote speaker and workshops, are free. The Playwriting Festival will feature staged readings of new plays written by Appalachian Playwrights or plays that represent Appalachian Culture in some way. One script from this festival will be chosen to be produced in Parkway Playhouse’s 2027 Mainstage Season! Cmlitfest.net, parkwayplayhouse.com/appalachian-playwriting-festival/

Autumn at Oz Festival 2026

September 11-13, 18-20, 25-27 in Beech Mountain, NC

The Autumn at Oz Festival 2026 will return to the Land of Oz in Beech Mountain, continuing its long-running immersive celebration of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The event is expected to run the last three weekends in September, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday; visit landofoznc.com for the latest updates.

On the Same Page: Ashe County’s Literary Festival

September 15-18 in West Jefferson, NC

Enjoy a celebration of reading and writing! Meet fellow readers and talk about your favorite books and authors, hone your creative writing skills in author-led workshops, and much more. Authors will read from recent works and answer your questions about books and writing, and attendees can participate in a lively discussion of the “Festival Read” selection. All Festival events are open to the public; most are free, although some require reservations and/or tickets due to limited seating. Visit the website for author information and the complete schedule for 2026. ashecountyarts.org/on-the-same-page-literary-festival/

West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair

September 18-19 in West Jefferson, NC

West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair celebrates old town history and heritage, featuring booths from locals and the region alike. Stroll the charming streets of historic West Jefferson and search for treasures galore. Hours are Friday, September 18, from 1 p.m. to dark, and Saturday, September 19, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is free, and food options are available for purchase. wjeffersonantiquesfair.com

Liberty Mountain

September 18 - October 11, Kings Mountain, NC

Liberty Mountain, a dramatic, live-performance theatre event by playwright Robert Inman, captures the emotional impact and significance of the Battle of Kings Mountain that took place on October 7, 1780, helping to stop to the momentum of Britain’s lightning-paced “Southern Strategy.” The hardy pioneers who tamed and settled this area fought and won this crucial battle that turned the tide of the Revolution and led directly to the British surrender at Yorktown a year later. Performances are presented on Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets, including group discounts, are available through the Liberty Mountain website, libertymountaindrama.com/tickets.

Harvesting Heritage Festival | September 19 in Burnsville, NC

Celebrate Appalachian traditions at the 2026 Harvesting Heritage Festival, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., at The Center for Pioneer Life, 134 Joe Young Road. Enjoy a full day of pumpkin picking, live music, historic craft demonstrations, and guided tours of a pioneer homestead. Shop from local artisans and savor seasonal bites from food vendors. Whether you’re exploring with family or looking for a day steeped in culture and community, there’s something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind mountain festival. pioneerlife.org/event-details-registration/harvesting-heritagefestival-2026

AND SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE FALL FESTIVALS:

Antlers and Acorns | September 23-26, Boone, NC antlersandacornslodge.com/festival

Appalachian Autumn Market & Fall Festival | October 3, Boone, NC horninthewest.com

Brushy Mountain Apple Festival | October 3, North Wilkesboro, NC applefestival.net

Mountain Glory Festival | October 10, Marion, NC mtngloryfestival.com

Oktoberfest | October 10-11, Sugar Mountain, NC Oktoberfest.skisugar.com

Valle Country Fair | October 17, Valle Crucis, NC vallecountryfair.org

Woolly Worm Festival | October 17-18, Banner Elk, NC woollyworm.com

July 2, 3, 4 | Zonnie Sheik 39 years with BJ’s. Wow.

August 11, 12, 13 | Daniella Ortiz Exquisite handbags in every color. As usual, she always has new styles.

August 20, 21, 22 | Edward Guski A little bit of everything. Special dresses.

August 27, 28, 29 | Zonnie Sheik Here again if you missed her in July.

September 2, 3, 4, 5 | Claire Tyler Beautiful sweaters for Fall in many colors and styles.

September TBA | ALGO of Switzerland

“In

The Good Old Summertime!”

AMERICA250 EVENTS HIGHLIGHT A SEASON TO REMEMBER

By Keith Martin

The explosion of performing arts events in our region is best evidenced by the fact that we have four new organizations included in this cultural calendar, along with a brand-new performing arts venue. Welcome, one and all. The listings on these pages, and in the accompanying articles on An Appalachian Summer Festival, Art Remarks, Regional Happenings, and our Live Music Guide contain most of the events that have been announced from now through mid-September. Each is listed alphabetically by the producing company, along with their websites for tickets and additional information.

PLEASE NOTE that all the performances, dates, and times are subject to change; readers are strongly encouraged to check individual websites and/or the theatre box offices for the most current information.

Be sure to tell them that CML sent you… and enjoy the show!

ALLEGHANY COMMUNITY THEATRE

hosts their first theatre camp for children from August 3-8 in Sparta, NC. The camp includes a residency with Missoula Children’s Theatre and their Little Red Truck Tours, featuring two professional theatre instructors/actors as well as beautiful scenery, props and costumes. The show selected for the camp is Rapunzel with performances on August 7 and 8. AlleghanyCommunityTheatre.org

The APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY will be screening several films during the summer and beyond as part of their NC250 programming, including The Patriot on June 26, Felicity on June 27, the movie musical 1776 on June 30, Lincoln on July 10, and Kit Kittredge: An American Girl on July 18, along with a July 3 live stage performance of the Tony Award-winning musical Newsies, Jr., which culminates in a two-week education and outreach initiative.

A return engagement of the Thurston Howell Band, “Your Premier Yacht Rock Spectacular!” is scheduled for July 5 with The Embers featuring Craig Woolard bringing their “Heart and Soul, Rhythm and Blues, Feel Good Music” on July 11. Brass Transit on July 30 will pay tribute to the decades-long, multi-platinum songbook of CHICAGO. Doc Watson Day on August 15 will feature the Living the Light Tour with Grammy Award-winner Tommy Emmanuel, one of only a handful of musicians in the world who are “Certified Guitar Players.” August 21 marks the fourth annual Gatsby Gala, the theatre’s major fundraiser each year. Finally, on September 17, Grammy-winning fiddle virtuoso Bronwyn Keith-Hynes steps into the spotlight on the Doc Watson Stage. New events are added each week, so check their website frequently for updates: AppTheatre.org

The ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL in West Jefferson invites audiences of all ages to experience living traditions firsthand through square dances, live radio shows, workshops, and performances. The Old Time Square Dance Series has three dates at the Arts Center on June 25, July 23 and August 27. These free country dances feature talented local bands and experienced callers entertaining a joyful mix of ages on the dance floor with enthusiastic footwork and plenty of folks happily tapping along from the sidelines while enjoying the live music.

Now in its 55th year, the Ashe County Bluegrass and Old Time Fiddlers Convention celebrates and preserves traditional music with concerts, competitions, and jam sessions “to honor the music of the mountains and the musicians who make it.” On July 24, The Blue Ridge Opry brings a special edition of its nostalgic country music variety show to the Ashe Civic Center—inspired by the early days of the Grand Ole Opry and the golden

era of stars like Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, and The Carter Family. Hosted by singer and multi-instrumentalist  Kelley Breiding, the evening features performances by regional and local musicians and country dancers.  WKSK’S Old Time and Bluegrass Show returns to the Ashe County Park on July 25, this time featuring Sassafras Bluegrass Band with host Tom Hartman, a NC-based group rooted in the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The radio show returns to the Civic Center on August 15 and will showcase Tucker Conner and Friends. AsheCountyArts.org

The ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE is encouraging audience members to wear green while attending their production of Shrek: The Musical, with music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire. Based on the DreamWorks Animation film, the story follows two loveable ogres, Shrek and Princess Fiona, after their banishment from the Kingdom of Duloc by order of the evil Lord Farquaad. Their entourage grows to include a hapless donkey and a dozen fairytale characters including Pinocchio and the Gingerbread Man, all of whom “Let Their Freak Flag Fly.” Performances are June 25-28. Their next production is Turn of The Screw by Douglas Jones, based on the novella by Henry James, taking place from September 17-20. It is the tale of a governess, left in charge of a boy and a girl at a lonely estate, who begins to suspect that the ghosts of former servants have hideous designs upon the children. With every twist in the plot (or turn of the screw) the tension increases until something—or someone—must snap. Both productions take place in the Ashe Civic Center. AsheCountyLittleTheatre.org

Continued on next page

CULTURAL CALENDAR

This is my favorite time of year at the BARTER THEATRE in Abingdon, VA. Three of the productions we featured in our spring issue continue through the summer months with an additional four shows opening soon. The Savannah Sipping Society runs until August 8 and marks yet another crowd pleaser from the writing trio of Wooten, Jones, and Hope. In this delightful comedy, four very different Southern women, all strangers, are drawn together by an impromptu happy hour, and decide it’s high time to reclaim the excitement their lives once held. The da Vinci Code, adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel from Dan Brown’s novel, doesn’t close until August 8. Professor Robert Langdon is called to the Louvre Art Museum in the dead of night and unwittingly becomes the center of a murder investigation. Frank Loesser’s classic Guys and Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway, based on a story and characters by Damon Runyon, continues through August 9. It follows the high stakes games of a motley crew of gamblers and the women who unexpectedly steal their hearts, with a score that features such beloved hits as “Bushel and a Peck,” “Luck Be a Lady,” and “Sit Down, You’re Rocking the Boat.”

Soapbox time: one of my favorite musicals of all time is the brilliant and inspiring Come From Away with book, music, and lyrics by the talented Canadian husband/ wife duo of David Hein and Irene Sankoff. I first saw an early 50-minute version at the 2013 Festival of New American Musicals, produced by the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, of which I am a proud member. Set on 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland, when 38 commercial airline flights from around the globe with nearly 7,000 passengers onboard were diverted to their tiny town, it chronicles the very best of humankind on our country’s darkest day. This must-see musical will be the most produced show in America this year, but

you can see it nearby when it opens at the Barter on August 26.

Kate Hamill’s “terrifying, smart, and funny” stage version of Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula premieres on September 10; it upends the familiar tale of Victorian vampires with a “play we can really sink our teeth into.” Opening on September 17 is Kings Mountain, a world premiere by Catherine Bush that is a VA250 Signature Event. It chronicles the battle that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War and eventually led to American independence. The many Mary Lucy Bivins fans (and they are a legion) should call the box office immediately to get tickets for the encore performances of Bush’s play Grandma Gatewood Took A Walk, with shows from July 21 through August 23. Gatewood was a 67-year-old who told her children she was “going for a walk” but failed to mention that it would be over 2,000 miles through 14 states, making her the first woman to solo through-hike the newly formed Appalachian Trail.

BarterTheatre.com

BARTER PLAYERS classic theatre for “Kids of All Ages” has two family-friendly shows on tap this summer with James Hendley’s adaptation of The Sword in the Stone running through July 3. For years, the sword has stood in the stone, waiting for the day that it will be drawn by the one true King of England. But could that king be an absent-minded squire named Arthur? From July 7 to August 8 is Cinderella, adapted by Kailey Kyle from the fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, wherein our heroine dreams of a different life far away from the ceaseless demands of her cruel stepmother and mean-spirited stepsisters. Then the Palace announces a Royal Ball given in honor of the King’s son… could that be her happily-ever-after? BarterTheatre.com/The-Barter-Players

BEANSTALK COMMUNITY THEATRE is producing SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical, based on the Nickelodeon animated television series, the weekend of July 22-25 at the App Theatre in Boone. Conceived and directed by Tina Landau with book by Kyle Jarrow and music by various artists, including Sara Bareilles, Cyndi Lauper, and Panic, it is a vibrant and imaginative adaptation featuring a unique story, original songs, and a creative team that brought to life the underwater world of Bikini Bottom on stage. Looking ahead, auditions for their holiday production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever have been set for August 29 with details at BeanstalkNC.com.

Although between seasons, the CITY OF MORGANTON MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (CoMMA) is wisely presenting a series of high school summer workshops for teens beginning July 20 with “Stagecraft: Set Design Concepts” followed on July 22 with “Intro to Lighting,” and “Intro to Audio” on July 24. Completion of all three workshops leads to an opportunity for participants to apply for an internship for backstage assistance with CoMMA’s 2026/27 Family Stage productions. morgantonnc.gov/comma

The 17th season of ENSEMBLE STAGE, located in the Historic Banner Elk School, continues with the romantic comedy Love & Baseball by Jerry Montoya from July 17-26. A chance meeting creates sparks between Will and Michele, but like the pristine moments of an unforgettable baseball game, love is also a sport of luck, skill, and timing. Matthew Lombardo’s historical comedy Looped from August 14-23, depicts an actual 1965 recording session with an intoxicated Tallulah Bankhead, considered to be film’s original “bad girl” who was renowned for her promiscuity and deep sultry voice. Sir Arthur Conon

Doyle’s literary farce The Hound of the Baskervilles, adapted by Steven Canny and John Nicholson, takes the stage from September 11-20. Doyle’s most celebrated Sherlock Holmes story gets a gloriously funny makeover when Sir Charles Baskerville is found dead on his estate, with a look of terror still etched on his face, and the paw prints of a gigantic hound beside his body. The great detective is summoned from Baker Street, with Dr. Watson in tow, to unravel the mysteries surrounding his death.

Throughout the summer, Alice in the Hundred Acre Wood by Maggie Lou Rader is performed by Ensemble Stage on Saturday mornings with performances on July 11, 25, and August 8. When Winnie the Pooh hires Alice to solve the case of Christopher Robin’s kidnapping, she arrives to find a very anxious Piglet, a terribly unfocused Tigger and a very Eeoyre-y Eeoyre. EnsembleStage.com

Also in Banner Elk, the popular FORUM music series at Lees-McRae College continues its popular slate of tribute bands and songbook performances on June 29 with The Stranger: A Tribute to Billy Joel, followed on July 6 with the Western Piedmont Symphony, then Stevie Mac: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac on July 13, Southern Cross: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young on July 20, Electric Light Orchestra featuring Evil Woman on July 27, and concluding with Margaritas in Paradise: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffet on August 3. Extensive program notes for each concert are available at ForumMusicSeries.com

The America250 production of HORN IN THE WEST opens June 26 with the 74th season of Kermit Hunter’s historical outdoor drama, with performances through August 8. Under the first-year direction of veteran director and fight choreographer David Doersch, it is the nation’s oldest outdoor drama portraying the American

Revolutionary era. As our country celebrates the 250th Anniversary of its founding, this story holds special meaning, reminding us of the courage, sacrifice, and determination that gave rise to a new nation. HornInTheWest.com

It’s always exciting when another performance venue opens anywhere in our region, and the May 28 ribbon cutting and dedication of the stage at DANIEL BOONE NATIVE GARDENS was reason for celebration. Adjacent to Horn in the West’s Daniel Boone Amphitheatre, it is the new home for the Roots in the Garden annual concert series throughout the summer celebrating Appalachian roots, live music, and community. It’s a beautiful setting amid native plants and flowers in full bloom, and one couldn’t help but think of the wonderful theatrical productions that might grace that stage one day, such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Dark of the Moon, or the musical Shenandoah. Just sayin’.

DanielBooneNativeGardens.org

NEW to our calendar listings is the vibrant JOHNSON CITY COMMUNITY THEATRE in Mountain City, TN. They perform in the 1923-era auditorium located in Heritage Hall Theatre, “an intimate and inviting venue that is not just a theatre, but a community hub where the arts flourish and thrive throughout the year.” From July 17-25, they will perform One Stoplight Town by Tracy Wells, a story about people from a town so small that you might drive through without taking a second look. But if you stopped for just a moment, you might see a young boy and girl fall in love, a cantankerous grocery store owner coping with change, a son returning home while a daughter thinks about running away. You might even notice the town’s handyman taking it all in while he fixes what is broken. And if you stayed long enough, you’d notice that over the years,

children grow up, and some change can be welcome. jccommunitytheatre.org or heritagehalltheatre.org

Founded in 1985, the LEES-McRAE SUMMER THEATRE is now in its 41st year of new and original musicals. Their 2026 season continues with the world premiere of the musical America 250, from June 30 - July 5, by Janet Barton Speer. Speer explains that “a group of performers are putting together a show to celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary but, hilariously, they don’t always agree on what America stands for, or what songs should be included.”

The Alan Menken/Glenn Slater musical comedy Sister Act, based on the hit 1992 film, concludes the season from July 2531, also with Speer and Dingman at the helm. When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent! Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she rediscovers her own. Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy.

The Roy Krege Scholarship Show, August 2 at 3 p.m., is a special fundraiser will feature America’s Golden Dream Dancers, bringing together performers from six states to present their hit show Next Stop Broadway, recently showcased for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines as well as Pearl Harbor and Normandy Memorial events. The afternoon will also include a local talent showcase featuring performers from our community. 100% of proceeds from this event will benefit the Roy Krege Scholarship at Lees-McRae College. lmc.edu/community/summer-theatre/

NEW to our calendar listings is the 80-year-old PARKWAY PLAYHOUSE, proudly the oldest continuing operating summer theatre in North Carolina, located in the scenic Yancey County town of

CULTURAL CALENDAR

Burnsville. They are featured elsewhere in this issue, but their 2026 mainstage season opened with the musical Sister Act and continues from June 26 – July 12 with the Meehan/Stouse/Charnin tuner Annie based on the classic “Little Orphan Annie” comic strip. Rick Elice’s brilliant Tony Award-winning adaptation of Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson’s novel Peter and the Starcatcher charms audiences from July 31 – August 9, followed by the 2025 Appalachian Playwriting Festival winner Carswell Holler by Travis Lowe, about a series of dangerous events and menacing stories (both real and imagined), the natural and the supernatural. Parkway’s Junior Season features Disney’s Finding Nemo Kids on June 19-20 and Mean Girls, Jr. on July 1719. ParkwayPlayhouse.com

PROJECT DANCE, the producers of the Carolina Snowbelles, are offering two arts education programs this summer beginning with their Camp of the Arts wherein “children of all ages dive into the vibrant world of the arts, exploring music, dance, theatre, set design, and more. Through hands-on activities, interactive lessons, and inspiring projects, campers will develop new skills, express themselves, and build friendships in a fun and supportive environment.” For example, the July 13-17 session focuses on the Broadway productions of High School Musical, The Lion King, and Moana. The summer concludes with the Kick It Up precision dance intensive from August 3-7 designed for dancers looking to refine their skills in tap, jazz, and ballet while immersing themselves in the renowned style of precision dance.  ProjectDance.com

TWEETSIE RAILROAD is North Carolina’s first theme park, opening on the Fourth of July in 1957. Known primarily as a Wild West adventure park with amusement rides and a petting zoo, Tweetsie features stunning three-mile-long train

rides aboard a historic, coal-fired, narrow gauge steam locomotive. From a performing arts perspective, Tweetsie is a major employer of professional talent and produces 21 performances of a half-dozen live entertainment and stage shows each day. A sampling of offerings includes the Can-Can Dancers, Country Clogging Jamboree, Hopper and Porter’s Musical Celebration, and The Magic Show. The 2026 season is in full swing and runs until November 1 with a variety of holiday events. Tweetsie.com

NEW to our calendar listings is the UNDERSTUDIES PRODUCTION COMPANY at Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro. Their mission is “Keeping theatre in the community and community in theatre!” From June 25-28, they are producing A. A. Milne’s The House At Pooh Corner as adapted by Bettye Knapp in Mayes Pit/ Cohn Auditorium in Thompson Hall on the WCC Campus. The much-loved story follows Christopher Robin and his friends Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger and the rest as they run away together to avoid being sent off to this place called  Education. As the situation becomes clearer, Christopher Robin isn’t quite so sure that running away is the answer. The company is sharing 20% of all ticket sales to the Safe Spot Child Advocacy Center. TheUnderstudies.org

The WATAUGA ARTS COUNCIL, in partnership with the Downtown Boone Development Association, is organizing the Fifth Annual Buskers Fest on Saturday, September 12. This much-anticipated celebration of our eclectic creative community features artists, musicians, performers, demonstrators, and creative groups lining the streets of Downtown Boone. Over 200 artists and performers will be on the streets, sharing their talents with residents and visitors while providing a chance to experience the arts like never before. Organizers tell us that, “You can buy art, make art, dance, sing, make

pottery, discover bands and musicians and learn about our incredible creatives here in the High Country and beyond.” Have your Venmo app ready or bring cash for tips to support the artists.

Watauga-Arts.org/Buskersfest

While you’re on the WAC website, download their Arts Map; check out the First Friday Art Crawls, art classes and workshops, gallery exhibits, and opportunities to showcase your artwork; and learn about the Youth Makers Market, their entrepreneurs-in-training program. You can also go to their other site to search an arts directory and view the events calendar at HighCountryArts.org

The WILKES PLAYMAKERS are again partnering with Bleu Moon Productions on a co-production of A Hometown Legend: Tom Dooley, A Wilkes County Legend on two consecutive weekends from July 23-26 and July 30 – August 2 in Benton Hall directed by the playwright, Karen Wheeling Reynolds. Formerly an outdoor drama and now in its 25th season, the play with music invites you to step back in time and relive the haunting true story that put Wilkes County on the map. History, heartache, and hometown pride all come together in this powerful drama made famous by The Kingston Trio in their #1 hit single. Parts of the show were invited to be performed for the North Carolina Film and Tourism Committee’s Annual Meeting, the Supreme Court of North Carolina’s Annual Meeting in Raleigh, and for The North Carolina Society of Historians.

From September 10-13, the company is producing The Dark Side of Human Nature as told by Will Shakespeare. From ambition and betrayal to love and revenge, Shakespeare’s timeless tales reveal the depths of the human heart: dark, twisted, and unforgettable. The Playmakers promise an evening of drama, intrigue, and the Bard’s unmatched insight into our wilder instincts. WilkesPlaymakers.com

An Appalachian Summer Festival 2026

By Keith Martin

When the 42nd Season of AN APPALACHIAN SUMMER FESTIVAL (AASF) was announced under a banner headline that promised a “Star-Studded Lineup,” they weren’t kidding. Here are the artists performing live from June 27-August 1 in various venues at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC.

The SCHAEFER SPOTLIGHT SERIES opens with the Punch Brothers on June 27. This virtuosic “roots music” quintet is known for pushing the boundaries of acoustic music, winning a 2018 Grammy Award for Best Folk Album. Seven-time Grammywinner Gladys Knight takes to the Schaefer Center stage on July 8. She has enjoyed #1 hits in Pop, Gospel, R&B, and Adult Contemporary, and triumphed in film, television, and live performance. On July 10, Straight No Chaser Beach Bash “is the real deal, the captivating sound of nine unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense… and with a sense of humor.” Emmy, Golden Globe, and Tony Award-winner Darren Criss will appear on July 18; see the sidebar for information about his concert. Over the past four decades, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter-musician Rick Springfield—performing on July 23—has created some of the finest power-pop of the ‘80s, sold 25 million albums, and scored 17 US Top 40 hits, including “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “An Affair of the Heart,” etc. Over the course of four decades, the alt-country, roots-rock band The Jayhawks have soared to heights few ever achieve while winning the hearts and minds of numerous critics, fans, and peers in the process.

The CLASSIC CONCERT SERIES features the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra on July 1, the Merz Trio on July 7, WindSync on July 12, the Calidore String Quartet on July 29, and pianist Aaron Diehl on July 31. The DANCE and THEATRE SERIES includes Complexions Contemporary Ballet on July 16 and The Other Mozart on July 19. AASF’s 15th Annual Rosen-Schaffel Competition for Young and Emerging Artists and Winner’s Recital take place on July 2. The GLOBAL FILM SERIES features four screenings from around the world on June 30, July 14, 21, and 28. Their VISUAL ARTS programming includes a Summer Exhibition Celebration on July 2 and the 40th Annual Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Walk on July 11. ARTtalks invite you to step behind the curtain for a series of intimate conversations with this season’s artists about the passions and processes that shape their work with events on June 30, July 9, 15, and 29. Star-studded, indeed! Visit AppSummer.org for tickets, show times, and more information.

Darren Criss: FROM

GLEE TO BROADWAY

By Keith Martin

The most recent performance this writer has seen by Darren Criss was hilariously unexpected: in drag as Little Orphan Annie from the musical Annie singing “Maybe” before stripping off the wig, picking up his electric guitar, and turning the wistful ballad into a hard rock song. The event was MisCast‘26, a Manhattan Class Company benefit held in Manhattan’s Hammerstein Ballroom, and his self-effacing performance demonstrated both Criss’ wicked sense of humor… and his altruism.

From his breakout role on  Glee to his Tony-winning turn in Maybe Happy Ending, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Darren Criss has built a career defined by fearless versatility and magnetic stage presence. His Broadway credits span  Hedwig and the Angry Inch,  How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, and  American Buffalo alongside Laurence Fishburne and Sam Rockwell. Most recently, his acclaimed performance as the retired “helperbot” Oliver in  Maybe Happy Ending earned him two Tony Awards, one for Best Leading Actor in a Musical (the first Asian actor to win in that category) and the other for Best Musical as a producer of the show, which won four other Tonys. In his moving acceptance speech at Radio City Music Hall, Criss talked about his “remarkable journey” with the show and thanked his wife Mia, mother to their daughter and son, both under the age of three at the time.

Speaking to a SRO audience in Broadway’s Belasco Theatre during his final curtain call of Maybe Happy Ending on May 17, Criss acknowledged that he was a sentimental person while saying, “After 555 performances, this marks the closing of one of the most remarkable and profoundly joyous chapters of my life. The show has been the greatest imaginable gift to me personally, professionally, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and artistically. It has given me and my family—at a very specific juncture in my life—more than I could have ever dreamed of, and I hope that I have been able to give back half of ‘the charge’ that it has given me.”

That last line is an inside joke about the show… IYKYK. Criss later climbed on top of his chauffeur-driven SUV to thank the many fans gathered at the stage door for their support.

The An Appalachian Summer Festival team says that for this special concert event on July 18, Criss brings together songs from across his wildly eclectic career—including favorites from Glee, StarKid, Broadway, and his own original music. Expect an unforgettable evening packed with powerhouse vocals, charisma, humor, and pure Broadway energy.

Blowing Rock Souvenir Sportswear

Area’s Largest Selection of Hats & Shirts

Be Sure to Visit Sunset Sweets & Heats (over 500 hot sauces)

Jewelry

Hershey’s Dip

Ice Cream

Gifts

Life Is Good T-Shirts

9am-9pm Mon-Sat | 10am-8pm Sun Main St., Blowing Rock | 828-295-9326

Artistic

Complexions Contemporary Ballet

“MATCHLESS

AMERICAN DANCE COMPANY” PERFORMS ON JULY 16

By Keith Martin

Although it is primarily a music festival, the wise folks who program An Appalachian Summer Festival always seek out a major dance company to balance their performing arts offerings each season, and this year they made an excellent choice. According to the Festival, COMPLEXIONS CONTEMPORARY BALLET “explodes onto the stage with boundary-breaking artistry under visionaries Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson. Raw athleticism meets sleek precision, where 16 powerful dancers command the stage with fierce grace and technical brilliance that’ll leave you breathless.”

Audiences in the Metrolina region have seen many of principal choreographer Rhoden’s works at Charlotte Ballet (formerly the NC Dance Theatre), where their repertory contains at least 20 ballets created by “one of the most sought out choreographers of the day,” according to The New York Times. All five pieces being performed in Boone were created by Rhoden. The first act features a mixed repertory that spans Complexions’ 31 years as a company, followed by act two, LOVE ROCKS—set to the electric, guitar-driven anthems of Grammy legend Lenny Kravitz. Feel the energy in a vibrant celebration of love, diversity, and everything that makes us human.

Likewise, Rhoden’s co-founder and co-artistic director Richardson may be familiar from his Broadway performances in his Tony-nominated roles in Fosse, or Billy Joel’s Movin’ Out or, more recently, for his memorable interpretation of Warren Carlyle’s Tony Award-winning choreography in After Midnight. Desmond holds an honorary doctorate from the NC School of the Arts and was a celebrity performer/choreographer on So You Think You Can Dance Rhoden and Richardson met as principal dancers at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and are currently working on the Broadway-bound Mozart Her Story.

I had the privilege of working with Desmond in 2007 at both Richmond Ballet in Virginia and at The Joyce Theater in NYC when he danced the titular role of Adam in the ballet After Eden during a weeklong retrospective of the work of legendary choreographer John Butler. We reconnected in an extended, free-ranging interview about their upcoming App Summer Festival residency; when I congratulated him on the 32nd year of Complexions, he blurted out, “It’s crazy!” Desmond said that the journey had been so incredible and is proud of the amazing accomplishment, especially when hearing from those who the company has touched over the years.

Since forming the Complexions in 1994, Desmond danced with the Frankfort Ballet in Germany and became the first black principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, performing the lead role in the company’s acclaimed production of Othello, aiding in the transformation of ballet

from a predominately white art form. Richardson performed many other lead roles to critical acclaim and added to that workload five productions both on and Off-Broadway, and his appearance in the Academy Award-winning best picture Chicago. The question becomes how did all those credits affect the early, formative years on Complexions?

Desmond responded nonchalantly, “We still wonder how we did it all these years later, but it’s interesting how the universe connected Dwight and me together in so many ways at the same time. We kept in touch on an almost daily basis, but it was mostly a matter of scheduling,” noting that they were almost always working on the company while one or the other was in NYC, out of town, or on location. “Since I stopped dancing in 2020 just before the pandemic due to bursitis of the metatarsals in both my feet,” Desmond said, “everything we do has been collaborative, representing all our collective talents. When Dwight finishes choreographing a ballet, I’ll then work with each individual dancer and the entire company on their interpretation of the piece and the precise articulation of each movement. This is especially important with our younger dancers.”

About the handful of separate pieces on the Boone program, a large number in comparison to recent dance residencies, Desmond proudly said, “It’s a variety of works selected from our ever-expanding repertoire that demonstrate the full range of styles which we are capable of performing, with choreography that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.” When asked about which pieces he was most excited about showcasing, Desmond remarked, “All of them, but particularly Love Rocks. The public loves it, Lenny’s music is unifying, and it represents a diversity that matches our company.”

Dwight is particularly proud of the emerging leadership of their coassociate artistic directors, Jillian Davis and Joe González, who appear together on the Boone program in one of Rhoden’s newest works, First Comes Love (2025). He is also excited about the App Summer Festival ARTtalks conversation on July 15 during which the company will discuss the passions and processes that shape their work. Titled “Innovation in Motion,” the session will feature Davis talking about how Complexions has transformed ballet through creativity, diversity, and fearless artistry.

What were Desmond’s final words of advice for High Country dance enthusiasts attending their performance?

“I don’t want the audience to expect anything, but… be prepared to be transformed! As Lenny Kravitz says in the program notes, ‘We’ve got to dance and be in love’.”

Q&A with Melanie Veazey of Parkway Playhouse

NC’s Oldest Summer Theatre

Celebrates Its 80th Anniversary

By Keith Martin

It’s been a decade since CML last wrote about the Parkway Playhouse in the Yancey County town of Burnsville, NC. Parkway holds the distinction of being the oldest continually operating summer theatre in the state, now celebrating is 80th year of operation, but only their 79th season due to the pandemic. Founded in 1947 by Professor William Raymond Taylor from the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, it was originally known as the Burnsville Playhouse, Inc. and the School of Dramatic Arts. The venerable theater is part of the Yancey Collegiate Institute Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hundreds of aspiring thespians have honed their craft in Burnsville, including musical theatre legend Jerry Herman, the composer and lyricist of Hello, Dolly! and Mame, Christopher Reeve of Superman fame, Tony Award-winning actress Beth Leavel, and many film, television and Broadway stars such as Dixie Carter and Andrew Prine. Yancey County Travel and Tourism Director Sue Wasserman proudly adds that Parkway is one of the few remaining venues on the “straw hat circuit,” which refers to summer theatres dating back to the 1930s and ‘40s when the men frequently wore straw hats. “Parkway Playhouse isn’t just iconic; it’s a continued source of pride for the community.”

Wasserman was particularly enthusiastic about Executive Director Melanie Shulman Veazey. “She has injected new life and energy into the organization; there’s a lightness when you walk into the space, a sense of joy that’s palpable,” said Wasserman. “When you talk to Melanie, her passion for taking the theatre to the next level is so obvious, and what’s she’s doing with

area youth is nothing short of remarkable. Melanie isn’t just a gift to the theatre; she’s a gift to the entire community.”

We caught up with Veazey right after opening night of their current musical, Sister Act, and asked a handful of questions about her role and vision for the theatre. Her answers below are edited only for length and clarity.

CML: You bring an incredible skillset to Burnsville: 30 years of arts leadership, performance, and training, a BFA from Carnegie Mellon, founding and leading two successful arts organizations; how does that inform your leadership?

VEAZEY: Colleagues cite my collaborative approach, strategic vision, and commitment to community arts access. Quite simply, I’m dedicated and committed to strengthening the Parkway Playhouse legacy while expanding innovative programming, deepening audience engagement, and supporting the next generation of artists. We are a successful regional theatre with a professional staff and an emphasis on inspiring, educating and entertaining our community and audiences. This year we are producing four mainstage shows and six junior shows as well as hosting a playwriting festival and several concerts. Our focus remains to provide family-friendly musicals and shows that will entice our audiences into our historic theater as we tell stories that spark joy, laughter and appreciation for the art we are creating.

CML: We understand that it was your professional acting credits on the regional and national level that first brought you to Parkway; it that correct?

VEAZEY: I’ve been with Parkway for four years, first as an actress appearing as

Gaynelle in The Red Velvet Cake War, then starting a vocal studio which now has over 25 students currently enrolled. After serving on the board for two years, including one as vice president, the job of executive director became open last January. I had every intention of semi-retiring after moving to Burnsville, working part time while volunteering and teaching, occasionally acting when the opportunities presented themselves. But, having run successful arts businesses in both Florida and Connecticut, I thought I might be a good fit for the organization.

CML: Obviously that worked out well for you and the Playhouse.

VEAZEY: Within the first few weeks in the position, I was able to fix some longstanding issues simply by talking to people, taking responsibility, and having the initiative to make the necessary changes. I made it a point to get out into the community, attending ribbon cuttings, new business openings, and having coffee with more people than I ever imagined. What I discovered was that there is a beautiful network of people here that not only want to help each other but are ready to dream big with you and help you achieve the goal. The first fundraiser I put together was for a spotlight. Every theater needs a spotlight, right? I can’t tell you how exciting it is to see that big bright light on the stage.

My next vision was to make Parkway Playhouse a gathering place, a cultural hub for people to come not just to shows, but to get together beforehand, grab a snack or a drink, then sit and enjoy our outdoor patio. We opened Sister Act last night and our patio was transformed into a new inviting venue with musicians, several artisan tables, and a local farm supplying flowers to purchase for the cast. It was

such a lovely moment seeing this dream come to life: people talking, listening to music, purchasing art from area vendors, enjoying concessions and celebrating this theater space that is so very magical. For now, this celebration happens on opening nights, but we’re hoping it becomes so popular that it can be done before every performance.

I also realized that we were not celebrating our hardworking actors and crew enough. After opening our first mainstage show of the season, we honored them by serving a congratulatory cake, cookies, and other goodies which again brought everyone out to the patio under the stars to commemorate their success and achievement. Friends and family joined in with energy and excitement about the show, the space, and the future of Parkway. One cast member said, “I think the season is off to an incredible start.” It’s all about gratitude. Theater is a place to be grateful all the time… there is just nothing like it. The moment that anyone is not collaborating on equal ground, the whole situation falls apart because everyone is as important, a part of the whole. If I can make that happen, establish that culture, I will have done my job.

CML: We’ve been told that there are even bigger facility changes planned soon; please tell us about them.

VEAZEY: I have big dreams to restore our historic amphitheater with feelers out to different people that might be able to help. Some stonework and grading of the lawn, then we’ll be back in business with an extension continuation of our patio. What could be better than picnics on the lawn while listening to a concert or watching A Midsummer Night’s Dream under the stars? The big news is that I was able

to speak to our county commissioners last winter and they are gifting the building to us. This will enable us to apply for grants and loans to make even bigger improvements in and around the theater, such as putting in a new ADA compliant ramp for patrons and sprucing up our patio area with new benches and chairs for patrons. We are also going to turn our rehearsal space into a dance studio/black box theater so that we can have more classes as well as an appropriate performance space for smaller works and showcases.

I’d like to provide special experiences for the Parkway community and there is a large network of theatre practitioners ready and willing to come in for workshops, to guest direct, design, and perform. It was always so special for me to work with a successful industry professional, and I want to give back to Parkway in this way. There is already a guest director coming to us straight from Flatrock Playhouse for Peter and the Starcatcher and a wellknown composer/lyricist who’s going to workshop a new junior musical with us. It’s experiences like this that make Parkway special. We have an incredible historical theater that the world needs to know about and, hopefully, bringing in these special guests will help put us on the map. That’s my goal, to put us on the map. To have visitors from all over the region and country come to Burnsville, not only because it’s a beautiful town with so much to do, but because it has a great theater producing great theatre.

CML: How do you measure success, both personally and for your theatre?

VEAZEY: Success to me is being able to look at something, know what could be better, have a vision, share the vision, give

it wings and let it fly. The preshow porch project is a perfect example: I had a vision, shared it, some wonderful women on our team took initiative, ironed out the details and then, suddenly, it was there. People were happy, noticed, and said thank you for making our experience here even better. That’s success. Before Parkway, my arts education companies were both called Impact. I remember every single one of my teachers and how they affected me or impacted me both positively and negatively. Now, when a student or client comes back and says thank you for all taught me; that is also success.

Ultimately, I want to leave the Playhouse better than I found it and, hopefully, will be here for many years to make changes, write new chapters, update and solidify structures so that the next person can come in and keep building. That’s what this is all about. We are building something here that we may never see fully completed, but what an honor to do it while having faith that your efforts will make a difference, and I’ll be remembered for being part of something that was and is greater than all of us.

Avery County’s Oldest Realty Firm

AVERY COUNTY’S OLDEST REALTY FIRM

Main Street - Newland, NC • (828)733-2151 • (828) 733-5222

121 Pineola Street, Newland, NC • (828)733-2151 • 828-733-5222

Linville Office • Linville, NC (828) 733-5770

Linville Office • 4205 Mitchell Ave, Linville, NC • 828-733-5770

Mike Lacey - Amy Vaughan - Ally Long

For listings: www.LaceyRealtyNC.com, or contact us at amyv65@yahoo.com or allyblong@gmail.com

Mike Lacey: 733-5044 • Amy Vaughan: 733-1678 • Ally Long: 828-260-6369

For more listings see our website: www.LaceyRealtyNC.com, or contact us at amyv65@yahoo.com or allyblong@gmail.com

Mike Lacey: 733-5044 • Debbie Lacey: 733-4475

Amy Vaughan: 733-1678 • Ally Long 828-260-6369

June 30–July 5

Patriotic hits, hidden gems, and big laughs as a troupe of performers struggle to agree on what belongs in a show celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

July 25–31

When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she’s hidden in the last place anyone would lthink to look—a convent. As she helps her fellow sisters find their voices, Deloris rediscovers her own. Sister Act is a feel-good musical comedy based on the hit 1992 film.

in the

us for this special fundraiser performance. All proceeds go to the Roy Krege Scholarship at LMC. August 2

Music in the Vineyard, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery

Where the Music Is . . .

By CML Staff

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

AT WINERIES AND VINEYARDS

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 until the end of September from 2-5 p.m. | 9557 Linville Falls Hwy (Hwy 221), Linville Falls, NC, 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., through the summer. | 60 Deer Run Lane, Banner Elk, NC, 828-898-9090, bannerelkwinery.com

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery – Music in the Vineyard hosts a season full of live music. Enjoy music every day in July through September starting between 1 and 2 p.m. | 225 Vineyard Lane, off NC 105 between Boone and Banner Elk, NC, 828-963-2400, grandfathervineyard.com

Villa Nove Farm & Vineyard – Nestled in the Appalachian High Country with vineyard-laced hills giving way to breathtaking 360-degree views; open Friday and Saturday from 1-9 p.m. and Sunday 1-6 p.m. Check their Facebook page for live music updates. | 1877 Dry Hill Rd, Butler, TN, 423-768-0345,  villanovevineyards.com or Facebook @ VillaNoveVineyards

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 12-6 p.m. (usually two bands), and Sundays 2-5 p.m. | 2152 Beaver Creek School Rd, West Jefferson, NC, 336-846-6060, oldbarnwinery.com

AT RESTAURANTS AND BARS

Old Hampton Barbecue and The Tavern at the Old Hampton Store – Live outdoor music on Thursdays and Saturdays 6-9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 12-3 p.m. Go to Old Hampton Store Facebook page for the latest updates, additions, and changes. | 77 Ruffin Street, Linville, NC, 828-733-5213, Facebook @ OldHamptonStore/ or oldhamptonstore.com

Banner Elk Café, Lodge and Tavern – Located in the heart of town this Banner Elk staple has live bands on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year, 5:30-9:30 p.m. | 324 Shawneehaw Ave. S, Banner Elk, NC, 828-898-4040, bannerelkcafe.com

Lost Province Brewing – This downtown Boone location has live music every Friday and Saturday evenings starting at 6 p.m. | 130 N. Depot Street, Boone, NC, 828-265-3506, lostprovince.com

Chef’s Table – Live Wednesday night jazz with Shane Chalke at 7 p.m. | 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC, 828-898-5214, bannerelkvillage. com

Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria – Live music every Friday 5:30-8:45 p.m., and family friendly pianist Andrew Cotts on Thursday and Sunday 5:30-9 p.m. | 402 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC, 828387-4000, famousbrickoven.com

Timberlake’s Restaurant – Located at Chetola Resort, Timberlake’s features live music on Thursdays from 6-9 p.m. and mid-day on Saturdays. | 185 Chetola Lake Dr., Blowing Rock, NC, 828-295-5505, chetola. com/dining/

Casa Rustica – Live jazz on Thursday evenings with Todd Wright and Andy Page at this old-world Italian restaurant. | 1348 Hwy. 150 South, Boone, NC, 828-262-5128, casarustica1981.com

Blowing Rock Brewing – Enjoy great food and beer with live music on Sundays from 2-5 p.m. through September. | 152 Sunset Dr, Blowing Rock, NC, 828-414-9600, blowingrockbrewing.com

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 summertime pleasure. Please check their Facebook page for up-todate information. | 397 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk, NC, 828-8982420, Facebook @ BlindElk/

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, NC, 828-865-0087, boonebeacon.com

Continued on next page

MUSIC

AT INNS AND RESORTS

Music on the Lawn at The Inn at Ragged Gardens – Friday evenings through September, 5:30-8:30 p.m., weather permitting. Bring your own seating; an outdoor bar and lawn menu is available. Sorry, no coolers, pets, or outside food or beverages. | 203 Sunset Dr., Blowing Rock, NC, 828-295-9703, ragged-gardens.com

The Pineola Live Music Weekends – Live music Friday and Saturday nights at 6:30 p.m. and Bluegrass Sundays from 1-4 p.m. | 3085 Linville Falls Hwy., Pineola, NC, 828-733-4979, thepineola.com

Summer Concert Series at Beech Mountain Resort – The 2026 Summer Concert Series at Beech Mountain Resort features a major lineup including Gary Clark Jr. (July 17), Turnpike Troubadours (July 18), and Lord Huron (August 8) with shows in the “Play Yard Slope” area. Tickets are available online. | 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC, 828-387-2011, beechmountainresort.com

Concerts on the Lawn at Top of the Beech Inn – This concert series takes place through Labor Day Weekend on Sunday evenings from 6-8 p.m. Some chairs are available or bring your own. Food and drink are available for purchase. Pets on leashes are welcome. | 606 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC, 828-387-2252, beechmtn. com/events

5506’ Skybar at Beech Mountain Ski Resort – Take the ski lift to the top—the Skybar at the peak of the mountain offers live music and panoramic views on Saturdays from 2:30-5:30 p.m. | 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC, 800-438-2093, beechmountainresort.com

Symphony on the Mountain – Playing one night only, Friday July 17. The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce announced an exciting new venue for one of the region’s most beloved annual events, Symphony by the Lake. The community will now experience this outstanding event at Appalachian Ski Mtn. Appalachian Ski Mountain, Blowing Rock, NC, 828-295-7851, symphonyonthemountain.org

Grillin’ & Chillin’ Concert and Dinner Series at Sugar Mountain – Wednesdays through Labor Day, 5:30-9 p.m. on the Golf and Tennis Clubhouse Deck with weekly food specials. | 1054 Sugar Mountain Dr., Banner Elk, NC, 828-898-1025, seesugar.com/summer-concerts/

AT PARKS

Alair Summer Concert Series in the Park, Blowing Rock – Enjoy concerts on select Sundays following the Saturday Art in the Park

events. Concert dates include July 19, August 16, and September 13 from 1-3 p.m. to benefit High Country Care Givers. | Memorial Park, 1036 Main Street, Blowing Rock, NC, 828-295-7851, blowingrock.com/ concertinthepark

Concerts in the Park, Banner Elk – Every Thursday through August 13 at 6:30 p.m., Tate Evans Town Park next to Town Hall. | 210 Park Ave., Banner Elk, NC, 828-898-8395, bannerelk.org/concerts-in-the-park

Music in the Valle –Valle Crucis Community Park, Fridays 6 p.m. through September 4; bring your own chair or blanket. | 2892 Broadstone Rd., Banner Elk, NC (Valle Crucis), 828-963-9239, vallecrucispark. org

Monday Night Concert Series in Broyhill Park – A variety of free music concerts at the gazebo in Broyhill Park on Monday nights through July at 6:30 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket. | 173 Lakeside Dr., Blowing Rock, NC, 828-295-5222, blowingrock.com

Backstreet Park Summer Concerts – 5:30-7 p.m. every Friday through August, except on the second Friday during Gallery Crawls. Bring your own seating. | Downtown West Jefferson, NC, at Backstreet Park, 2nd Ave. 888-343-2743, ashechamber.com

Todd Summer Concert Series – Free live concerts will be held outdoors at Cook Memorial Park in downtown Todd from 6-8 p.m., June through August 29. Bring a chair or blanket. Food is available for purchase. | 3865 Todd Railroad Grade Rd, Todd, NC, toddnc.org/plan-avisit-2/summer-concerts/

Saturdays in Sparta – Live Music at Crouse Park on July 18 at 5 p.m. and August 15 at 6 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a summer evening of great music! | 314 Cherry St, Sparta, NC, 336-6496086, alleghanyartscouncil.org/saturdays-in-sparta/

Seven Devils Music on the Lawn Concerts – Live music on the lawn every other Friday starting June 5 through August 28 at the Park at Seven Devils, 6-8 p.m. | 157 Seven Devils Rd, Seven Devils, NC, 828963-5343, sevendevilsnc.gov/parks-and-recreation/page/

Roots in the Garden Concert Series – Free concerts starting at 5:30 p.m. are hosted by Daniel Boone Native Gardens on their new stage July 16, 30 and August 20. Food, beer and wine are available. Picnics and coolers are welcome; all beverages should be in plastic or aluminum containers. A chair or blanket is recommended. Dogs are not permitted in the gardens, except for service animals. Wheelchair access is available at the Rockery entrance. | 651 Horn in The West Dr., Boone, NC, 828-964-1815, danielboonenativegardens.org/music

AT STORES

Sunset Concerts at Fred’s Gazebo finest Bluegrass on the lawn, free of charge starting at 6:30 p.m. at Fred’s Gazebo, July 12 through August 2. Some chairs are available for seating, however you may wish to bring folding chairs or blankets. | 501 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC, beechmtn.com/series/ summer-concerts-at-freds-gazebo-2

AT FESTIVALS

make it. | 527 Ashe Park Road, Jefferson, NC, 336-846-2787, ashecountyarts.org/fiddlers-fest

Fly Around Music Fest – This music festival on July 31-August 1 celebrates Appalachia’s natural beauty and rich musical traditions. | Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts, 9710 NC Hwy 194, Lansing, NC and Old Orchard Creek General Store, 9350 NC Hwy 194, Lansing, NC, flyaroundfest.com

An Appalachian Summer – Annual summer arts attraction from June 27 through August 1. This month-long cultural event includes live music concerts in Boone, NC. For information and tickets: 800-8412787, appsummer.org

Christmas in July Festival – A hometown street festival in the heart of downtown West Jefferson, NC, featuring handmade arts and crafts, traditional mountain music, fireworks, food & family fun. Live music begins on Friday, July 3 at 5 p.m. and Saturday, July 4 at 9 a.m., 336-846-1987, christmasinjulyfestival.com

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games – Blaring bagpipes, delicate dancers, rocking Celtic music and a spectacular highland setting make this colorful celebration of Scottish culture one of the most highly acclaimed highland games in the country, July 9-12. | 2050 Blowing Rock Hwy., Linville, NC, 828-733-1333, gmhg.org

The Doc and Rosa Lee Watson MusicFest – This year, the event will be held at The Appalachian Theatre in Boone on July 17 at 7 p.m. The festival hosts local, regional, and nationally renowned musicians, all on stage to honor Doc Watson, who got his start busking in Boone. Reserve your tickets today. | 559 West King St., Boone, NC, 828-8653000, docwatsonmusicfest.org

FloydFest ‘26 “Daydream” – Enjoy live music, outdoor adventure, craft libations and family friendly activities, July 22-26 | 5826 Floyd Highway North, Check, VA, floydfest.com

Virginia Highlands Festival – July 24-August 2. Annual events include a live kickoff concert July 24, 7-9 p.m., Tunes at Noon 12-2 p.m. in various locations, 250 Years of Music in America July 26, 2-4 p.m., arts and crafts and so much more. | Abingdon, VA, vahighlandsfestival.org

Ashe County Bluegrass & Old-Time Fiddlers Convention – Held at Ashe Park on July 24-25, the music is focused on honoring the Old Time and Bluegrass music of the mountains—and the musicians who

Doc Watson Day – Celebrate the memory and influence of local legend and seven-time Grammy musician Doc Watson at the Jones House Cultural Center Friday, August 14 at 5 p.m. (free event) and at The Appalachian Theatre on August 15 at 7:30 p.m. (ticketed event) | 604 West King St., Boone, NC, 828-268-6280, joneshouse.org and 559 West King St., Boone, NC, 828-865-3000, apptheatre.org

Long Journey Home Musical Heritage Homecoming Tour – A showcase of local and regional acoustic talent playing up and down Main St. in Mountain City, TN, September 4-6, 423-460-3313,  longjourneyhome.net

Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion – September 11-13 in downtown Bristol, VA/TN | State Street. For tickets and more information: 423-573-1927, birthplaceofcountrymusic.org

Buskers Fest – Busking brings music, art, and creativity into everyday life and Boone offers the perfect stage. Come one, come all on September 12, 1-5 p.m., West King Street, Boone, NC, 828-264-1789, watauga-arts.org/buskersfest

Antlers & Acorns, The Boone Songwriters Festival – Tourists will discover, students will learn, and locals will be reminded why the Blue Ridge Mountains are a sacred place, a source of inspiration, a home for creativity. Sept. 23-26, antlersandacornslodge.com

AND EVERYWHERE ELSE

Appalachian Theatre of the High Country – This restored theatre has too many dates and acts to count so please check out their events page for tickets and information at apptheatre.org | 559 W King St, Boone, NC, 828-865-3000

High Country Jazz Society Concerts – take place the second Sunday of the month, May through October from 5-7 p.m. at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country in Boone. Purchase tickets at apptheatre.org | 559 W King St., Boone, NC, 828-865-6860, highcountryjazzsociety.wordpress.com

Continued on next page

MUSIC

The Village Stage Summer Concert Series – Offering live performances on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. through Labor Day. | The Village of Banner Elk, 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC, 828-8985214, bannerelkvillage.com/entertainment

The Village Stage Big Band Happy Hour – On Thursday afternoons enjoy the Big Band Happy Hour starting at 5:30 p.m. on the Village Stage. It’s not often you get to experience authentic swing music with a 15-piece band! | The Village of Banner Elk, 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC, 828-898-5214, bannerelkvillage.com/entertainment

FORUM Music Series – Mondays at 5 and 7:30 p.m. through August 3 at Hayes Auditorium on the campus of Lees-McRae College. | 191 Main St., Banner Elk, NC; information and tickets: 828-898-8748, lmc. edu/forum

Music on Main – Organized by the Alleghany Arts Council, Music on Main takes place on the first Saturday night of July through September; bring a chair or just your dancin’ shoes to Main Street for a night to remember. Concerts start at 5 p.m., with the headliner kicking off at 7 p.m. | Intersection of US21 and NC 18, 336-649-6086, alleghanyartscouncil.org/saturdays-in-sparta/

Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music – Live music events in various locations and dates. Check their website for upcoming concerts. | mountainhomemusic.org

Concerts on the Deck – Bring a chair and your dancing shoes to the Yadkin Valley Marketplace the third Saturday of each month, now through September from 6-10 p.m. | 842 CBD Loop, North Wilkesboro, NC, 336-667-7129, north-wilkesboro.com/337/Concerts-on-the-Deck

Concerts in the Commons – The second Saturday of the month, 6-10 p.m., now through August at Carolina West Wireless Community Commons. Enjoy food trucks plus a nearby splash pad, and concerts are free. | 102 West Main St., Wilkesboro, NC, 336-838-3951, wilkesboronc. org/visitors/concerts-in-the-commons

The Orchard at Altapass – Free live music in the outdoor pavilion from June through October on Saturday and Sunday, 2-4 p.m. and Fridays in July | 1025 Orchard Rd., Spruce Pine, NC, 828-765-9531, altapassorchard.org

Crossnore Jam – Free live jam sessions. Bring an instrument if you’d like to join in! Town Meeting House on the first Friday of the month at 7-9 p.m. and every Tuesday at 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Crossnore Drive, Crossnore, NC, 828-733-0360

Old-Time Acoustic Jams at the Jones House – Join 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. | 604 West King St., Boone, 828-268-6280, joneshouse.org

Summer Concerts at the Jones House – Concerts on the lawn of the Jones House in downtown Boone on Fridays at 5:30 p.m., June through August. | 604 West King St., Boone, NC, 828-268-6280, joneshouse.org

Saloon Studios Live – This all-inclusive musical venue is the ultimate music lover’s retreat. Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains community of West Jefferson | 313 Old West Rd., West Jefferson, NC, 336-8772374, 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.

On Stage at Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

The music lineup will once again be a major draw for this year’s Grandfather Mountain Highland Games with some of the greatest talent in the world of Scottish and Celtic music. Daily piping competitions, plus Grove 1, Grove 2 and the Alex Beaton stages will be ringing throughout the event, July 9-12.

Daily lineups include: the Brothers McLeod, Strathspan, Voices of Valverda, Seán Heely Celtic Band, Tune Shepherds, Colin Shoemaker, Mari Black, Ed Miller Trio, Rosalind Buda, Émigré, and Seven Nations.

Then there’s the Friday night Celtic Rock concert featuring the Seán Heely Celtic Band, Will MacMorran, Nick Hudson and ending with Games’ favorite, Seven Nations. The Saturday night Celtic Jam features Voices of Valverda, Mari Black, the Ed Miller Trio and the Seán Heely Celtic Band. Performance schedules at gmhg.org.

In addition, the 28th Annual Grandfather Mountain Gaelic Song and Language Week will be held at Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk. Classes run from July 5-10. Teachers include Gaelic singer Brian Ó hEadhra (O’ Hara) from Scotland, Jennie Duncan, a teacher at the Gaelic college Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in the Isle of Skye, and Jason Bond from Maine. Information and registration acgamerica.org/grandfather-mountain/ - Contributed by Steve York

UPCOMING BANDS

June 3

Trout

June 10

Foscoe 4

June 17

DJ Pete

June 24

Johnson Brothers

July 1

Soul Benefactor

July 8

Chasing Phoenix

July 15

The Lucky Strikes Orchestra

July 22

The Great Levelers

July 29

Cornbread Junkies

August 5

Collective

August 12

Smokin’ Joe Band

August 19

DJ Pete August 26

Classic Highway

September 2

Kids in America 80’s Tribute Band

September 7 - Labor Day Celebration Tanya & The Roadrunnerz

Sugar Mountain Golf Club Deck 1054 Sugar Mountain Drive 5:30 – 9 PM

Go to SeeSugar.com/summer-concerts or call 828-898-1025 for the latest info. Band schedule subject to change.

18-hole public golf course with an immaculate putting surface that maximizes every vista. SeeSugar.com/golf | 828-898-6464

Meticulous public tennis courts of fast-dry, Har-tru clay. Men’s, women’s, and mixed friendlys. SeeSugar.com/tennis | 828-898-6746

Sugar Mountain Golf Club Sugar Mountain Tennis Club Caddyshack Café

Delicious food on the outdoor deck with mountain views. Grillin’ & Chillin’ Wednesday Summer Concerts SeeSugar.com/caddyshack-cafe | 828-898-1025 Go to SeeSugar.com to plan your visit!

The Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans

A Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Tribute to the Fabric that Bonds

Scottish Clans

By Steve York

If you ask the average fan of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games (GMHG), “Which iconic symbols of the Scottish Games and culture first come to mind?” the predominant answer would be the great Highland bagpipe and the radiantly colored Scottish tartans. And, although both Scottish bagpipe playing and wearing of tartans were banned by the British Act of Proscription in 1747 following the Jacobite rebellion’s loss at the Battle of Culloden, the ban was eventually lifted in 1782.

The evolution of the Scottish tartan plaids traverses several centuries with early versions hardly resembling modern day kilts and plaids. That evolution began as heavy, woolen pullover garments that might be draped down below the knees. Originally, plaid designs relied on simpler dyes that faded easily and were not necessarily clan-specific. Over time they became long yards of material which were gathered, folded, belted at the waist and draped over the shoulder to provide additional cover and protection from the elements. The Clan-identifiable tartan plaids and durable dyes came much later. Since then, the popularity of clan tartans has risen worldwide to include the more casual blousy Jacobite top shirt, sporran pouch and kilt, to the full headto-toe dress and military uniform. At

one time, there were only 90 to 100 official clan-named tartan designs, whereas today there are over 7,000. (Note: For a deeper dive into tartan history, a visit to the Scottish Tartans Museum and Heritage Center in Franklin, North Carolina, would be well worth a day trip.)

Each year, both bagpipes and clan tartans are reverently honored and abundantly present throughout the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games; and especially during the Thursday night Calling of the Clans and Torchlight Ceremony, as well as during performances by the Grandfather Mountain Highlanders and various pipe and drum bands.

There is one event specifically devoted to the legacy of Scottish tartans. That event is the “Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans” church service held each Sunday morning starting at 10 a.m. on the last day of the weekend’s Games. The Kirkin’ is immediately followed by the spectacular “Parade of Tartans” at 11:30 a.m.

The “Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans”—or Coisrigeadh nam Breacan in Scottish Gaelic—celebrates the cultural bond between all Scottish Clans. The event’s tradition dates back to World War II and was initiated by the late and renowned Scottish-born Presbyterian minister, Peter Marshall, on April 27, 1941, at the

New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C.

The official national “Tartan Day” event in the U.S. occurs each year on April 6 in honor of Robert the Bruce’s convening of Scots in 1320 for the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath, a document similar to the Magna Carta, which declared “no person is above the law.”

GMHG President Steve Quillin—who received the National Tartan Day Award last year—recently shared, “I was in NYC for Tartan Week, which included several events culminating in the NYC Tartan Day Parade through Manhattan.” Quillin added, “This year marks the 70th Anniversary of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and Gathering of Scottish Clans. With 108 clans and families represented on Clan Row, we remain the largest single assemblage of Scottish families in the world. And this year’s Games, July 9 through 12, will feature the Clan Gunn, serving both as the Honored Clan and—as represented by their Chief John Gunn—the Chieftain of the Games.”

As for the Sunday morning Kirkin’ service, Quillin noted, “Sean Heely will sing the first two verses of Be Thou My Vision in Gaelic before being joined by the congregation for the last verse in English during the church service.”

The word “Kirkin’” comes from the Scottish Gaelic word “kirk,” which means “church.” As such, the event has always been a gathering to pray for a “blessing of the tartans” and an enduring unity of Scottish Clans. And, there are few people who have more knowledge about the legacy and modern weaving of Scottish tartans than Peter McClelland Wilson of Charlotte, North Carolina.

A native of Bears Den, some seven miles northwest of Glasgow in southwest Scotland, Wilson is connected with the Clan Campbell of Cawdor on his mother’s side and most likely Clan MacClellan on his father’s side.

His first visit to the Grandfather Games was in 1976 during a four-year stay in the U.S as an environmental engineering graduate assistant at Clemson University. “The Games were recommended to me by a Clemson associate. So, I went along with him and a few others. We camped out in the wooded campgrounds next to MacRae Meadows and had a great time. And we really had the most fun at night huddled around bonfires where musicians would join us for spontaneous Cèilidhs,” said Wilson.

“While in the States, I met and married a girl from South Carolina. We eventually returned to Scotland for about 14 years where I worked in my fa-

ther’s business. Then we moved permanently to the States in 1993 and I started attending the Grandfather Games regularly around 1995.” He transitioned into manufacturing and marketing Scottish tartans online at the encouragement of a Columbia, SC, acquaintance he met while attending the Loch Norman Games.

“Initially, I began importing Scottish foods and beverages online and then added tartans. We found there was a real need for more affordable, washable fabrics like 100% cotton, rather than just the heavier traditional wools. We ultimately sold off the online Scottish foods business and focused only on tartans, eventually establishing Great Scot International (www.greatscotintl.com) and becoming a pioneer of non-wool and manmade poly fiber tartan designs,” said Wilson. Over the years, Wilson has also been commissioned to create special non-clan tartan custom weaves, including the current Grandfather Mountain Highland Games’ tartan, the official Harley Davidson bikers’ tartan, numerous Irish family tartans, as well as various logo and commercial designs for colleges and corporations. Today, he is semi-retired, works from home, focuses mainly on tartan projects, and is President of Scottish

Heritage USA (SHUSA). “SHUSA is a non-profit organization founded in 1965 and based in Pinehurst, NC,” Wilson noted. “Our purpose is to inspire people to explore, celebrate, support, and sustain Scottish heritage through education, cultural engagement, community connection, and strategic partnerships. And our vision is to champion Scottish Heritage, connecting tradition with modern life and global Scottish culture while creating a world-class Discovery Center for learning, research, and cultural engagement,” added Wilson.

You’ll find Wilson and the SHUSA tent each year at Grandfather Mountain Highland Games as well as at the Stone Mountain, Georgia, Games. SHUSA also has a growing presence at several other Scottish Games. So, while visiting this July, be sure to stop in, soak up some Scottish heritage, and learn even more about the fascinating legacy of the Scottish tartan. And, if you don’t already have your own clan tartan, Wilson can point you in the right direction.

For details on this year’s Games, visit gmhg.org

Tuesday-Friday

The Fairy Doors of Ashe County

By Tamara S. Randolph

In2025, a new community art initiative was launched and spearheaded by artist and educator Pat Kincheloe Morrison. Her mission: to “spread healing and joy across Ashe County in the wake of Hurricane Helene.” Funded by the Ashe County Arts Council through the Jane Lonon Legacy Grant, the project has unfolded in several phases.

First, Pat connected with businesses and community spaces throughout the county. Next, she began creating whimsical clay fairy doors and magical portals reflecting the “personality” of each organization. Over a period of 10 months,

the doors, between four and eight inches tall, went through the pottery-making process, which involved shaping, drying, bisque firing, glazing, and glaze-firing.

As of early summer, over 40 unique doors have been installed along the “Fairy Door Magical Trail,” and the public is invited to find them all! Start by picking up your Trail Passport from the Ashe County Arts Council (or other locations, including Florence Thomas Art School, the Ashe Chamber of Commerce, and Doe Ridge Pottery). Your passport will have a QR code on the back that shares the address locations of all the doors.

“Families from Ashe County, as well as visitors to the county, will find this activity fun to do together,” says Pat. Not only will you discover new places and meet friendly people, you’ll also be rewarded in another way: “Tiny clay doors are given to those who fill up the passport after traveling around Ashe,” she adds. “Just bring your finished passport to Doe Ridge Pottery and pick one up.”

This summer, set out on your magical journey through Ashe County and find your favorite Fairy Doors.

“Pat created ours in honor of the community efforts during Helene, including the canoe that became lodged in the tree along the river... such a meaningful and creative project to be part of.” - River Girl Fishing

Art Remarks

By CML Staff

In our Regional Happenings column near the front of the magazine, we highlighted a number of Arts Festivals taking place this season that you won’t want to miss, including Art on the Greene in Banner Elk, and Art in the Park in Blowing Rock. Here, we share with readers more opportunities to get to know artists, makers and other creative types; participate in art walks, crawls and workshops; and discover priceless treasures while exploring our active arts and crafts communities.

One-on-One with Artists

Dropping by Edgewood Cottage in Blowing Rock this summer is one of the best occasions to see local artists work in person; talk to them and learn more about their process. Every week through Labor Day, two different artists will share the Cottage and welcome the public to stop in.

This year’s artists include Jennifer Terrell Garonzik and Susan Payne, June 22-28; Barb Capaletti and Earl Davis, June 29 to July 5; Bernie Rosage Jr. and Gina Marrale, July 6-12; Miriam Esteve and Waitsel Smith, July 13-19; David Nelson Collins and Dezi Beltran, July 20-26; Dee Edelman and Jack Hamrick, July 27 to August 2; Evenlight Eagles and Beth Sain Shuford, August 3-9; Fanjoy Labrenz, Lucas Hundley and Crystal Hurt, August 10-16; Marcia Molnar and Susan Harris, August 17-23; Randi Robeson and Scott Ballard, August 24-30; Wen Remond and Beth Lyons, August 31 to September 6.

Works range from paintings (in oil, pastels, acrylics, gouache and watercolors), to award-winning photography, to wood, fabric arts, mixed media, ceramics, leather and clay. All artwork is available for purchase. Entry is free, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the cottage is located at 115 Ginny Stevens Lane. Artistsatedgewood.org

Gallery, Gardens & Grapes

Anvil Arts Gallery and Sculpture Garden is a unique arts destination to visit and experience a range of locally made statues, garden art, iron artworks as well as 2-D pieces for the home. Established by artist Bill Brown in 1981, the Anvil Arts Studio has since served as his primary workspace for sculpture—Brown’s large-scale works continue to be commissioned and installed all over the region, in partnership with son Gamble Brown. Nearly 20 other artists are also represented at Anvil.

This summer, Anvil Arts Studio presents its “Neighbors in Art & Wine” series, offering several opportunities to join friends at TWO locations: Anvil Arts Studio, and neighboring Linville Falls Winery. On June 27 and July 25, the event will be held at Anvil Arts Studio, where you can wander the gardens and browse the gallery while sipping wine and chatting with artists. On July 18, August 15, and September 19, the event will be held just down the road at Linville Falls Winery—Anvil Arts will bring a curated selection of handcrafted sculptures and striking artwork for guests to enjoy while sampling some of the winery’s award-winning local wines. All events take place from 12-5 p.m. Anvil Arts is located at 9600 Linville Falls Hwy, Linville Falls. Linville Falls Winery is located at 9557 Linville Falls Hwy. Studiosculpture.com

“Crawling” through the High Country

“Art Crawls” are a great way to spend an evening strolling through charming towns, browsing local art, and enjoying receptions, live music and great food. There are several art crawls that take place on Fridays in the High Country, including events in downtown Boone and West Jefferson.

On the first Friday of each month, “First Friday Art Crawls” take place in Boone, where you’ll find art vendors, gallery receptions, art exhibits, live music and more. Summer events are scheduled for July 3, August 7, and September 4 from 5-8 p.m. Boone’s monthly First Friday Art Crawls series is brought to you by Watauga Arts Council and the Downtown Boone Development Association. watauga-arts.org/first-friday-artcrawls

On the second Friday of each month, 5 to 7 p.m., West Jefferson crawlers will have an opportunity to see innovative works by Ashe County’s leading artists. Visit the galleries, view the downtown murals, enjoy the many outdoor art pieces, and take advantage of the downtown restaurants. Summer dates include July 10, August 14, and September 11. The West Jefferson Arts District is full of art, color and wonderful items to grace your home and garden. All events are sponsored by the Ashe County Arts Council. ashecountyarts.org/gallery-crawls.

Four Decades for the Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition & Exhibition

Now in its 40th year at Appalachian State University, the Martin and Doris Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition celebrates An Appalachian Summer Festival tradition! This nationally recognized juried competition, established in 1987, has long been credited with enhancing the cultural landscape of the High Country region, while serving as a highlight and point of pride for An Appalachian Summer Festival.

Each year, ten sculptures are selected for exhibition, and are situated in outdoor, public settings across the university campus. A cash prize is awarded to the artist whose work is chosen as the year’s Rosen Award winner, which is announced by the juror at the popular Annual Sculpture Walk.

This year’s Sculpture Walk will take place on July 11, kicking off at 10 a.m. at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at 733 Rivers Street, Boone. After a brief welcome, juror Sam Spiczka will lead guests on a guided tour of the 10 sculptures installed along Rivers Street.

Following the walk, the group will return to the Schaefer Center for the announcement of this year’s award winners, a complimentary lunch, and time to chat with friends about your favorite pieces. (If weather prevents an outdoor tour, the sculpture walk will be presented indoors at the Schaefer Center with a slide presentation.) For those who can’t make the July 11 event, the Exhibition will be available for viewing along Rivers Street through May 2027.

Continued on next page

ART REMARKS

New Mountain City Mural

The Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition is made possible by generous support from The Martin and Doris Rosen Giving Fund—courtesy of Debbie Rosen Davidson and David Rosen—and The Charles and Nancy Rosenblatt Foundation. tcva.appstate.edu/events/

Public art plays a big role in Mountain City, TN, which is well known for its “Mural Mile,” a series of murals—many celebrating the area’s musical heritage—that have been painted on buildings downtown. One of the most recent murals, “Welcome to Mountain City, Tennessee,” is painted on the side of the Mink Crafts art and craft supply store at 117 Village Square Lane, Mountain City.

The Mink family designed the mural and kicked off the project last summer. With help from family, friends and many members of the community, they were able to raise funds and complete the mural by the fall. “We [were] so excited to start painting each letter and watching this dream come to life,” said store owner Rebecca Mink.

The Welcome to Mountain City mural “hides 100 different things” in the large-scale painting, such as the area’s flora and fauna, along with local scenery, icons and traditions. The public can obtain a list of those 100 items and participate in a “scavenger hunt” when they come to Mountain City to view the mural. Pick up the list in person at Mink Crafts or find it online at minkcrafts.com/welcome-to-mountain-city-tnmural.htm

You can also grab a map of all the Mountain City murals on the front porch of Johnson County Center for the Arts, where you can also begin your walk through beautiful downtown Mountain City. Be sure to step inside the Center’s “Gallery on Main” at 129 West Main Street. Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit jocoartcenter.org to learn more.

Found Objects of the Appalachian Mountains

A “Found Object” may be defined as, “An object, often utilitarian, manufactured, or naturally occurring, that was not originally designed for an artistic purpose, but has been repurposed in an artistic context.”

On August 13 at the Appalachian Theatre in Boone, enjoy an exclusive look at “12 FOUND OBJECTS,” a film presentation by native Watauga County artist and “exterior designer” Raleigh Sammy Austin Adams. Returning home to his mountain roots has inspired Adams to showcase and honor the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. His medium is the natural materials found in the Appalachian Mountains and native to NC, such as bark, limbs, moss, cones, fungi, and stone. Adams’ custom-made, handcrafted planters, mirrors, obelisks, and more have been shown in Charleston, New York, and Miami, and he’s recently been featured in Southern Living, Flower Magazine and Garden & Gun

Following the presentation, participate in a question-and-answer session with the artist and the film’s director, Trimella Chaney. Admission is $5. The doors open at 7 p.m. with the program beginning at 7:30. apptheatre.org

WAC’s Arts Placement Program

Through its Arts Placement Program, the Watauga Arts Council collaborates with local businesses and organizations to make art more visible and accessible in everyday spaces. By curating rotating exhibits in places like healthcare centers and offices, the Council provides both meaningful exposure for local artists—both professional and emerging—and enriching experiences for the public.

“This program is about connection: connecting artists to the community and the community to the arts,” said Amber Bateman, WAC Executive Director. “When art is placed in these partner spaces, it brings moments of inspiration, comfort, and beauty to people’s everyday lives.”

Current placements in Boone include the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Explore Boone Building, and the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce.

Through July, artist Susan Harkins’ paintings will be on display at the Seby Jones Cancer Center. Harkins finds great joy painting outdoors. Known as Plein Air painting, or painting “in the open air,” you can find her painting weekly throughout the warmer seasons with the High Country Plein Air Painters at parks, overlooks, farms, and local wineries.

“My wish is that my art offers a ‘moment of peace’ to calm the soul; encouraging you to step outside and truly see and feel the beauty of the High Country with new eyes,” shares Harkins.

Learn more about the Watauga Arts Placement program and Susan Harkins’ work at watauga-arts.org/arts-placement/seby-jones

Join the “Craft” Craze

The Appalachian Mountains region has always been a hub for fine and functional crafts, and this summer, you’ll have numerous opportunities to participate in craft fairs and workshops. Here are just a handful: Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands: The Southern Highland Craft Guild presents their summer fair July 16-19. Over 100 juried artists representing the Southern Highland region will be on hand with a wide range of fine crafts across 12 media: clay, fiber, wood, metal, glass, paper, leather, jewelry, natural materials and more. Enjoy live demonstrations and hands-on craft education, plus the opportunity to shop handmade and meet the makers behind the work. This popular event takes place at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville. Southernhighlandcraftguild.org/fair/

Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair: The Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair, celebrating its 70th anniversary, blends mountain heritage, traditional craftsmanship, and contemporary art. Held this year on August 7-8, the Fair will fill historic downtown Burnsville, showcasing more than 200 vendors and performers. Visitors can enjoy live bluegrass and acoustic music, delicious food vendors, and a wide array of handmade arts and crafts from skilled artisans. Founded in 1956, the Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair is coordinated and sponsored by the Burnsville-Yancey Chamber of Commerce. yanceychamber.com/crafts-fair

41st Annual Crafts on the Green: Head to Beech Mountain on August 8 for the annual Crafts on the Green, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free festival features the work of local artisans and includes over 30 vendors from throughout the mountain region. Quality art and crafts to be displayed and sold include fine jewelry, wood turnings, photography, paintings, pottery and more. Crafts on the Green is held at Gazebo Park next to Fred’s General Mercantile. beechmtn.com/calendar

Center for Pioneer Life Crafts & Artistry Workshops: Learn Appalachian crafts and artistry from local experts at the Center for Pioneer Life in Burnsville. Enjoy a beautiful historic farm as you get a hands-on learning experience in Appalachian culture. Saturday Workshops include Mead Making, July 11; Natural Dyeing, August 15; and Blacksmithing, September 12. pioneerlife.org/services-4

Penland School of Craft’s Annual Auction: Penland School of Craft is a national craft education center near Spruce Pine and Bakersville in Mitchell County, NC. Penland is dedicated to the creative life and offers a variety of workshops taught by talented artists. Their Gallery and Visitor Center is open Tuesday – Saturday, 11a.m. - 5 p.m. The organization will hold its popular Annual Benefit Auction this summer, August 21 and 22. “This year marks 41 years of bringing together collectors, curators, artists, and friends for a gala weekend in the mountains of North Carolina.” Learn more and register at penland.org/auction.

So Much Art, So Little Time

It’s easy for an art lover to find wonderful galleries and museums to visit throughout the High Country. Plan a weekend or week to check out some of these local galleries you might have missed.

Art Cellar | A celebrated arts destination for over 30 years, Art Cellar features the painting and sculpture of regional, national and internationally acclaimed artists. And if you’re in the market for jewelry, Hardin Fine Jewelry next door is filled with unique, handcrafted treasures. 920 Shawneehaw Avenue, Banner Elk, artcellargallery.com, hardinfinejewelry.com

BE Artists Gallery | A co-op with original works by nearly 40 local artists and makers, BE Artists Gallery is located inside the charming Historic Banner Elk School in downtown Banner Elk. 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, BEartistsgallery.com

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) | Every visit to the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum is unique. Eight Galleries offer inspiring experiences for everyone. 159 Ginny Stevens Lane, Blowing Rock, Blowingrockmuseum.org

Carlton Gallery | Celebrating 44 years in the High Country, Carlton Gallery hosts Group Exhibitions throughout the year highlighting a new theme for each exhibition. 10360 NC Hwy 105 South, Banner Elk, carltongallery.com

Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery in Crossnore represents regional painters, sculptors, and fine craft persons who want to take part in benefiting the children of Crossnore Communities for Children. 205 Johnson Lane, Crossnore, crossnore.org

Hands Gallery | Hands Gallery in Boone has been thriving for over 50 years. What started as the dream of a small group of craftspeople in 1975 continues to be a supportive space for sharing the love of art. 543 W King St, Boone, facebook.com/HandsGalleryArt/ Mica Gallery | Open seven days a week, Mica Gallery in Bakersville hosts 45 artists from Western NC. The cooperative gallery of fine art and contemporary craft welcomes new works seasonally. 37 N. Mitchell Avenue, Bakersville, micagallerync.com

Rivercross Made in USA | Filled with a collection of items handmade in the USA, Rivercross offers pottery, paintings, jewelry, woven works, and even a cool collection for kids. 3595 NC Highway 194 S, Valle Crucis, facebook.com/rivercrossmadeinusa/

Sally Nooney Gallery | There’s something for everyone, at every price. Find original paintings in oil, watercolor, acrylic, and alcohol ink; and fused glass art in fun, functional, and sculptural forms. 7137 Hwy 194 South, Banner Elk, facebook.com/p/Sally-Nooney-Gallery-100042693505914/

The Shoppes at Farmers Hardware | The Shoppes at Farmers is an emporium comprised of multiple vignettes in the old Farmers Hardware building in historic downtown Boone, NC. Owned by the same family since 1924, “we feature an eclectic collection of local artisans and experienced retailers.” 661 W. King St., Boone, facebook.com/shoppesatfarmers/

Toe River Arts | Celebrating its 50th year, Toe River Arts has worked to offer programs and activities that engage and enlighten members of the community. Their Spruce Pine Gallery is located at 269 Oak Avenue in Spruce Pine. toeriverarts.org.

The Blue Ridge Craft Trails website at blueridgeheritage.com/blueridge-craft-trails/ offers even more regional art destinations to expand your WNC art experience!

Wildacres Retreat

A Hidden Treasure of the High Country

By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

Nearlya century ago, in McDowell County, near Little Switzerland, a planned artists’ colony became the early sprout of what has now blossomed into a thriving retreat center, Wildacres Retreat. After the Great Depression shuttered the original project, it was purchased by I.D. Blumenthal who felt Wildacres was a gift that should be shared and a place where the solitude provided by the natural beauty of the mountains could truly benefit those who came there to be inspired and refreshed. Wildacres Retreat became a center where artists could benefit from the seclusion and beauty of the forest and the Appalachian Mountains.  For decades, Wildacres has been a non-profit devoted to hosting non-profit groups seeking the opportunity to thrive in and benefit from this beautiful environment. Today, Wildacres Retreat continues to be the ideal location for non-profit groups to refresh, recharge, learn, and grow in the middle of a spectacular mountain environment.

Situated on over 1,200 acres of federally protected land, Wildacres is truly a retreat from the stresses and noise that often clutter our daily lives, but it is also a site that remains committed to its mission of the betterment of human relations. Hosting groups centered around experiences ranging from music and storytelling to science and the environment, Wildacres draws non-profit organizations from across the country and even from all around the world. While each

group brings its own programming to the site, Wildacres itself also offers two Gatherings each year, in April and October. Staying on-site allows participants to focus on their experiences and to enjoy Wildacres’s hospitality and unique natural resources.

Some of the regular opportunities offered each season at Wildacres include a residency program that provides artists with space and quiet to work on projects. The week-long slots allow artists in an array of media to withdraw from phones, screens, and other interruptions in order to focus on their projects while staying in one of the three cabins on site. Since 1999, the program generally hosts around seventy artists each year.  The Environmental Artist in Residence Program, launched in 2022, allows environmental artists to focus on their work with minimal distractions while exploring topics connected to the environment and our relationship with it.

Groups who come to Wildacres include interfaith organizations, artist groups dedicated to specific disciplines, and musicians specializing in particular instruments. Wildacres partners with organizations such as Mayland Community College that provide unique opportunities. Through the Wildacres Leadership Initiative, Fellows from the William C. Friday Fellows for Human Leadership can hone leadership skills for tomorrow. In particular, the Wildacres team appreciates hosting groups that,

like Wildacres itself, focus on improving human relations, interactions, and meeting needs.

David Griffin, who began serving as the retreat’s Resident Director just over a year ago, describes Wildacres as a “hidden gem” that drew him just as it does so many of those who come to learn, reset, and refresh. While its “hidden” aspect means that many people, unfortunately, are not aware of this remarkable resource, it does mean that the site retains its secluded nature, one of its primary appeals for many who travel here.

In addition to hosting those who come to experience the beauty and seclusion Wildacres offers, the retreat center is also an important part of the region, employing over thirty staff members and protecting an irreplaceable piece of the mountains. Philip Blumenthal, nephew of founder I.D. Blumenthal, is currently the retreat’s Executive Director, and the Blumenthals take very seriously their stewardship of the retreat, the preservation of its history, and the continuation of its legacy of service to those who serve others. By protecting the Wildacres property with an easement that conserves the streams and forests it encompasses, the retreat is saving this pristine site for the future and has even inspired adjacent property owners to consider similar measures to ensure the mountains retain their natural, undeveloped beauty.

Everything a general store used to be ... and

Sherpani • Columbia • Kavu

Merrell • Wolverine • Chums

Wigwam • Whistle Creek

Teva • Norpro

While at Freds ... Stop in and Visit The Wildbird Supply Co. & Fred’s Backside Deli

Evergreen • Leanin’ Tree

Two’s Company • Nature Planet

Locally crafted houses & feeders and so much more! – Celebrating our 47th Year! –

Griffin, who has been involved with other camps and centers, says that Wildacres is unique, with its own beautiful spirit. In serving non-profits exclusively, Wildacres offers a remarkably affordable and diverse experience for a wide array of groups.

Despite some infrastructure damage during the catastrophic flooding the area experienced during the Hurricane Helene after-effects of 2024, Wildacres is going strong in 2026. Some of the nearby Parkway amenities remain closed, but the retreat itself provides a wealth of natural attractions. This year’s retreat schedule is filling up, but there is still room for groups who may be interested in planning retreats. Since Wildacres is an annual destination for numerous groups, the calendar is, fortunately, packed for most of the season, but groups may still be able to find just the slot for the perfect retreat. Griffin stresses that Wildacres is great for any non-profit, including ones located nearby, as it is truly an escape that can be transformative for members of groups of any size.

To learn more about Wildacres and about possibly scheduling a retreat, non-profits should check out the website at wildacres.org. The website is also a great place to learn about upcoming community programs, such as the free master’s concert scheduled for June 26 and open to the public.   The schedule on the website is also the place to see what groups have retreats scheduled each season. Those who are interested in joining in a wild week of storytelling with master tellers or an immersive experience honing a craft can see when groups are scheduled and contact those groups about availability for the retreat. Those who want to help continue the mission of Wildacres Retreat can also learn about opportunities to be involved and assist with support.

One of the best ways to support WIldacres is to help spread the word about this fantastic resource right here in the High Country. Although it is secluded, Wildacres doesn’t have to be a secret, and those who come here can attest that it is a treasure too extraordinary to be hidden.

All photos courtesy of Wildacres Retreat

Here by the Owl

Evan Peter Smith, Author

Published by Claude Perry Press

—Reviewed by Tamara S. Randolph

Are you a reader of history? Mystery? Romance? Here by the Owl, by Evan Peter Smith, rolls all three genres into one work that reads like a novel. Yet it’s a biographical account of a well-regarded farmer, devoted husband, educator, and soldier—from right here in the High Country.

In Here by the Owl, our main “characters,” Robert Gray “RG” and Agnes Shipley of Watauga County, are brought to life through their years of correspondence in the late 1930s and early ‘40s. In our current digital era in which everything is instant and in real-time, many of us take for granted what generations before us had to endure. Here by the Owl returns us to a time when love developed slowly, communication required patience, and risk-taking and sacrifice were a way of life for nearly everyone.

As a love story...

Readers follow RG and Agnes through their introduction to one another, their unlikely courtship, their time of separation during the war. You’ll feel the angst, the helplessness, the hardships of living in an age when nothing seems to resolve quickly, and shortages and rations dictate everyday life. Love letters provide an intimate glimpse inside the real lives of two individuals building a life together, often at a distance and at times enduring physical and emotional pain yet unceasingly joined through faith and hope.

As a mystery...

Our protagonists are frequently left in the dark. Where in the world will RG be stationed, and why? What is the source of the phenomena the soldiers witness once they arrive at their destination? When will RG be able to reunite with his beloved Agnes, and why do weeks go by without word from home? The author lets us experience the same lack of understanding and state of anticipation, while also rewarding us with “a-HA” moments along the way.

As a log of WWII history...

Readers follow a mountain farmer-turnedsoldier as he trains in the Air Force and eventually ships out with a small team of men who have similar backgrounds ... “not just farmers but experts, men with degrees and equally impressive reputations for their agricultural knowledge and experience.” The group is told they are about to make history together, yet not one of them had been fully briefed on their “special mission” in advance.

When they do finally make landfall at the place where they will serve—a volcanic island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean—more mysteries ensue: how is it that rain hovers directly over the men where they gather and work, yet never drops low enough to hydrate the ground? How can one small area of the same island, just miles away, be as lush as a tropical rainforest? As time goes by, they discover their destiny—to make breakthroughs in agricultural science, later achieving some level of fame as “modern-day alchemists.”

Supported by historical photos, Here by the Owl delves into a chapter of WWII that is rarely highlighted; readers learn about a remarkable group of men who ultimately did “make history” by contributing to one of the most important missions of all—feeding the world. And RG Shipley, a young farmer and county extension agent, along with wife Agnes, who provided inspiration, support and a reason for RG to push on during the hardest times, were key players in this notable achievement.

Here by the Owl was a “First Prize Winner” in the 2020 S.C. Press Association Awards. The book is available at Shipley Farms Farm Store in Vilas, NC (shipleyfarmsbeef.com/farm-store), your local independent bookstore, and on Amazon and other online platforms. Or, purchase a copy at Shipley Farms during the High Country Farm Tour on Saturday, September 12 (for more details, see our Farmers’ Market listing elsewhere in this issue).

Book Nook

By CML Staff

The Mountain Keeps Its Own Time: Poems and Photographs from Western North Carolina

Joe Beckham, Author

Skip Sickler, Photographer

Published by Faraway Publishing

The Mountain Keeps Its Own Time grows out of a “lifelong practice of paying close attention to landscape, to memory, and to the quiet movements that shape a life.” A retired professor of higher education policy, author Joe Beckham turns here to poetry as his primary medium, bringing with him a sensibility formed by years of teaching, writing, and public service, as well as an earlier life spent outdoors as a climber, fishing guide, and Outward Bound instructor. The poems are rooted in the Blue Ridge Mountains, “where ridges, rivers, and weather are not simply background but active presences—shaping perception, testing resilience, and offering moments of clarity that resist easy explanation.” Each poem is paired with imagery by photographer Skip Sickler that deepens and extends the work, “inviting the reader to enter both the visual and emotional terrain of Western North Carolina.” Available at Amazon.com

From Farm to School: Crops of North Carolina—A Visit to the Apple Orchard

Heather Barnes and Karen Baltimore, authors Karen Baltimore, Illustrator

Published by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Dedicated to the farmers of NC who grow apples, and the school nutrition professionals who prepare and serve them to students, this delightful educational book for young readers answers the “core” question: “Have you ever wondered where the apples served at your school come from?” Turn the pages to learn about apple orchards, apple varieties, and apple botany. Readers will discover some farming techniques that help nurture and protect apple trees and follow an apple through its lifecycle—from pollination to harvest. They’ll come to realize that countless bee legs and human hands are involved in the process

For Your Family’s Summer Reading List:

In this installment of Book Nook, we introduce you to “RG” and Agnes Shipley of Watauga County, highlight a newly released book of poetry and photography, and share notes from a children’s book on N.C. agriculture.

of getting apples and apple products to our kitchens and cafeterias. There’s even a recipe for “Apple Chips” that you can make with your children and grandchildren this summer. Download a free digital copy, along with an activity guide, at ncfarmtoschool.com/resources/ storybooks-activity-guides/. Printed copies are available at agricultural events statewide, or request copies at ncfarmtoschool.com.

And Coming Soon...

The Serpentine Chain: Mountains Across the Sea Sharyn McCrumb, Author Cristy Dunn, Illustrator

What do the mountains of Appalachia have in common with the rugged Highlands of Scotland and Ireland? More than poetry and song—they share an ancient geological connection.

The Serpentine Chain is a new collaborative project by New York Times bestselling author Sharyn McCrumb and East Tennessee artist Cristy Dunn exploring the deep geological and cultural ties between these distant but kindred landscapes. Long before the continents drifted apart, Appalachia and the mountains of Celtic Britain were joined as one range. Today, echoes of that shared origin remain in ridgelines, the music, and the enduring spirit of mountain communities.

McCrumb, renowned for her Appalachian “Ballad” novels, brings lyrical insight to the project through essays reflecting on ancestry, migration, and the way landscape shapes identity. Dunn’s paintings visually illuminate these connections, capturing a shared reverence for the land—its beauty, resilience, and the generations formed by its ridgelines.

The collaboration will culminate in a richly illustrated coffee table book pairing McCrumb’s writing with Dunn’s artwork. Watch for more details later this summer as the release of The Serpentine Chain approaches, a celebration of mountains, memory, and the stories that bind us across oceans and time. johnsoncountycenterforthearts.org, cristydunn. com/the-serpentine-chain

A Sensory Experience: Your Local Independent Bookstores

By Tamara S. Randolph

It’s 9:30 in the morning on a Thursday and Thornwell Books in downtown Morganton, NC, is hopping. The atmosphere is lively and happy. “King of the Road,” by Roger Miller, is playing over the shop’s sound system. A laptop is open at one table, while a young family is chatting with another young family in the alcove. The cafe is responsible for some amazing aromas and the steamy sounds of an espresso machine at work. Several customers wait in line for a treat—I’ve already secured mine: a delicious lemon-blueberry scone (baked by the Ugly Duckling Bakery nearby) and a cup of fresh-brewed coffee. Across the store, a group of women are laughing as they enjoy their beverages and discuss literature—perhaps a book club gathering? There’s even an adorable pup hanging out quietly with its owner, getting plenty of attention.

Here at Thornwell Books, we patrons are surrounded by shelves of books in every genre, as well as unique gifts for bibliophiles, in a beautifully restored historic brick building, formerly the circa-1920s “Burke Garage Company.” Thornwell Properties, the owner of the building, recently received the Gertrude S. Carraway Award of Merit from the Historic Preservation Foundation of North Carolina for their “outstanding achievement in the field of historic preservation.” In addition, they and their partners received an Award of Merit for the “Best Historic Rehabilitation Project” through the North Carolina Main Street program.

Thornwell Books is everything you want in an independent bookstore and feels hip and nostalgic all at once. And it’s just 25 miles from several High Country towns. If your trip “up the mountain” takes you through Morganton, be sure to swing by—your senses will thank you. 202 S Sterling St Suite 100, Morganton, NC | thornwellbooks.com

Over in Blowing Rock, tucked behind a similarly beautiful brick facade, FireLight Book & Candle maximizes the sensory experience with the combination of books, journals, curated local art, and hand-poured, small-batch soy candles. “In our bookstore and candle shop, you will find all your favorite candle scents [made in-house] and shelves filled with new and used books for your next literary adventure.”

If you’re wanting to support this independent bookstore but can’t make it over to the Blowing Rock shop, FireLight Book & Candle has teamed up with bookshop.org to bring your next great read straight to your door. From the FireLight website, simply click on their “Shop Books” link to see recent recommendations and browse thousands of books by category, or use the search bar at the top of the page to find the title you’re looking for. FireLight also offers onsite candle-making classes. To register, go to the Events tab on their website. 110 Sunset Dr., Suite 1, Blowing Rock, NC | firelightcandle.com

• DINING • BUSINESS

Amy Brown, CPA

Certified Public Accountant

828.898.7607

Avery County Chamber of Commerce

828.898.5605 / www.averycounty.com

Creative Interiors by Darlene Parker

828.898.9636

Highlanders Grill & Tavern

Open 7 Days a Week 828.898.9613

Impeccable Pooch

828.260.7067

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

Proud to be a Birdbrain

By Karen Rieley

Ihavebirds on my brain these days. Maybe that makes me a birdbrain, which is an insult in its common usage. Candice Gaukel Andrews in her recent Natural Habitat Adventures article, “The Benefits of Being a ‘Birdbrain,’” argues that calling someone a birdbrain is a misnomer. “In fact,” she writes, “the brains of birds are so large (relative to their body size) that scientists say they are practically ‘braincases with beaks.’” (nathab.com/blog/the-benefitsof-being-a-birdbrain)

In Birding to Change the World, Trish O’Kane’s life in New Orleans was shattered after Hurricane Katrina. Birds became her salvation as she watched them thrive throughout the devastated city. When O’Kane eventually found herself in Madison, Wisconsin, she discovered that Warden Park near her home was threatened with development and she became an “accidental environmental activist.” In each chapter of her book, she features at least one species of bird she observed and from which she learned important life lessons. Her book triggered my memories of birds in the High Country. The moment I take my first step onto our home deck a hummingbird greets me, flies straight at me, and hovers with a look that says, “Where have you been, and why don’t you have the feeder out and full of sugar water?”

A pileated woodpecker occasionally pecks at a tree in our backyard. He’s big, loud and beautiful. Dark-eyed Juncos hop along our deck railing to get to their feeder. My most memorable bird experience is a family of turkeys that, for several years in a row each summer, would parade across our backyard daily, precisely at 5 p.m. They strutted single file with papa tom followed

by mama hen and their 11 jakes and jennies following behind.

One evening a red fox suddenly slinked in from the side of the house, clearly with the intention of having a turkey dinner. Papa immediately spread his wings to make himself as big as possible, lifted one of his large, sharp talons and gobbled so loudly that it echoed off the mountains. Mama heeded his warning and ordered all their youngsters to fly up into the trees before she followed them. The whoosh of their ascent was audible from the deck. Papa strutted around menacingly until the fox turned tail.

There is much to learn from birds. They increase wellbeing by calming, soothing and helping us to focus more clearly. They are hopeful signs of the health of the planet and its future. They teach us about the importance of taking care of ourselves and our families before anything else.

Birds are living works of art with their feathers of many colors. They make unique, beautiful music that draws us to them on our walks. Sometimes their songs are the only sounds we hear besides the wind rustling through the trees.

In addition to its native birds, the High Country is one of the most diverse breeding and spring migration areas in the eastern U.S. Several species, like the Canada Warbler, are at the southern-most end of their breeding range while here, contributing to the wide assortment of birds found in our backyard, such as warblers, vireos, and peregrine falcons. Visit highcountryaudubon.org to learn more about bird species you’re likely to encounter.

“Many of our better-known species like the Carolina Chickadee and the Northern Cardinal are stable,” explains Sean McKay,

outdoor recreation supervisor for the Town of Beech Mountain Parks & Recreation. “Some species like the Golden-winged Warbler, Wood Thrush, and White-throated Sparrow that are facing population decline are struggling due to habitat loss.”

The High Country Audubon Society (HCAS) lists the following as “Important Bird Areas” (or IBAs, which provide essential habitat for breeding, wintering or migrating birds) in the High Country: Amphibolite Mountains, including Elk Knob State Park; Snake Mountain and Bluff Mountain; Grandfather Mountain as part of the larger Southern Appalachian Biosphere Preserve; Linville Falls and the Linville Gorge Wilderness area; Beech Mountain, including the Buckeye Lake Recreation Area, and Upper Ponds Creek Trail; the Boone area; Valle Crucis Community Park; Moses Cone Memorial Park; Julian Price Memorial Park; and the New River Corridor, among others.

For birdbrains like me, a birding app like eBird (eBird.org) lets you record sounds, identify species and send the information you collect to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in collaboration with the National Audubon Society. You can also volunteer at Lees-McRae College’s May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center or join the local chapter of the HCAS in Boone, which hosts bird walks, educational events and efforts in stewardship of birding areas. highcountryaudubon.org; lmc.edu/academics/ may-wildlife-center/opportunities.htm

Birding is a live immersive experience that contributes to the unique beauty of the High Country. Celebrate and advocate for our birds. They need us to help protect them, and we need them to enrich our lives.

Cool Off at Grandfather Mountain This Summer

Grandfather Mountain is ready to welcome visitors all summer long! The highest temperature ever recorded at the top of the mountain is 83 degrees, making the Linville, N.C., nature park and preserve the perfect place to escape the heat. Temperatures are usually 10 – 15 degrees cooler than the foothills below. It’s not unusual for our cool mountain air to cause guests to purchase a sweatshirt or jacket in one of our gift shops during the “warmer” months! Plan your cool summer visit today!

SUMMER EVENTS

With a few exceptions, most special events are included in park admission. Additional events will be announced and posted on www.grandfather.com.

Animal Enrichment Day: Wednesday, July 29

Junior Naturalist Day: Saturday, August 8

Hawk Watch: September 1-30

55th Annual Girl Scout Day: Saturday, September 12

Interested in a special experience on the mountain with a smaller group size? Check out the mountain’s Grandfather by Night series, Adult Field Courses and Mindfulness and Wellbeing events. The Grandfather Presents series brings nationally and internationally known speakers to the park to talk about conservation, adventure, nature and more.

DAILY PROGRAMS

During your visit, attend one of our Daily Programs presented by our animal habitat curators and park educators. These interpretive programs throughout the park are included in your admission ticket—choose from Keeper Talks, Animal Encounters and Random Acts of Science.

FOR EXPLORERS YOUNG AND OLD THIS SUMMER

Yonni’s Clubhouse, a new hands-on science and conservation education center, opened to the public this spring. Admission is included with an entrance ticket to the park.

Yonni’s is a part of the expanding Conservation Campus at Grandfather Mountain that includes the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, the Williams Outdoor Learning Space, Cobey Botanical Garden and more. Yonni’s Clubhouse, located next to the Wilson Center, is geared toward children ages 5 to 12, though all are welcome.

The new addition’s name comes from the cartoon mascot for Grandfather Mountain’s Junior Naturalist Program: Yonni, the Yonahlossee salamander. This species of salamander was first collected at a site on Grandfather Mountain in 1917 and, for more than a decade, young adventurers have explored the park with Yonni as their guide.

This new facility is designed to combine learning and fun by integrating indoor and outdoor educational opportunities, demonstrating how concepts taught in a classroom can play out in nature. The space will be 1,300 square feet and ADA-accessible – including Jada and Mila’s Discovery Trail outside. The

...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

clubhouse hosts around 10 interactive indoor exhibits, focusing on pollinators, climate, weather and ecosystems that include a seek-and-find forest mural, glass exhibit habitats for educational animals, a full-scale tree model, a drawing nook and a microscope station.

Jada and Mila’s Discovery Trail connects the facility’s covered deck and new pollinator and sensory gardens with interactive and interpretive signage that reinforce and expand upon the indoor exhibit’s concepts.

NEW ACCESSIBILITY INITIATIVES

New this summer in the park are free, ADA-accessible viewfinders. Two have already been placed at Half Moon Overlook. These special viewfinders allow people with color blindness to see and experience the natural world in a whole new way through EnChroma’s patented lens technology. EnChroma’s lens format and filter design are modified for the viewfinders’ high-power zoom optics, creating a vibrant scene for those who are color blind. Colorblind individuals may only see about 10% of the hues and shades that color-sighted individuals do, so these viewfinders provide a vibrant opportunity for all.

In addition to the pair that are already installed at Half Moon Overlook, there is another set that is soon to be placed at the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Unlike the previous viewfinders on the mountain, the new additions are available at no cost to guests.

Funds that aided in the purchase of the viewfinders were provided through the N.C. Science Museums Grant Program, which is a program of the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences and is one of the ways the state of North Carolina invests in sustaining and advancing one of the most diverse and widespread networks of science museums in the country.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY

Every ticket sold helps enable the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation to keep the park pristine and beautiful for generations to come. Purchasing advance tickets online at www.grandfather.com is highly recommended.

Summer Notes . . .

Furniture • Appliances

Small Household Items • Books

Clothing & Accessories

1/2 Off on clothing every Saturday!

Donations welcomed. Pick up available for furniture and appliances

Thank you for your continued support 828-262-5029

877 West King Street, Boone NC

Open Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm

SPONSORED BY RESORT AREA MINISTRIES

We offer an Initial, $49 Introductory

Hi, I’m Dr. Derrick Denman, DC., PA. Let me personally invite you to our office. Feel free to stop in, allowing me to shake your hand and take a few minutes for a quick office tour!

IT TAKES A

Many Blue Ridge Energy employees work behind the scenes to provide safe, continuous electricity. Each person and department brings their A-game.

From system operators, who monitor and control the flow of electricity, to an IT team that secures the power delivery and communication systems, to customer service representatives who assist members online or by phone, every team member plays a vital role in keeping you safely and reliably energized.

TO POWER YOUR HOME

By CML Staff

Trail Reports Summer 2026

Does your family enjoy hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, running, road tripping, camping and exploring our region of the world? Follow our “Trail Reports” in each issue for some of the latest developments related to trails, parks and public lands, and to learn about opportunities throughout the area.

n Favorite Destinations Reopen

Following Hurricane Helene in September of 2024, access points to some of our region’s most popular hiking trails and iconic waterfalls were forced to close. But as of early summer, visitors are invited to return to several High Country hotspots...

Thanks to the U.S. Forest Service and dedicated volunteers, the parking area and trail at Elk River Falls in the Pisgah National Forest is officially open to the public. The Forest Service successfully cleared over 12,500 cubic yards of debris, including tires, appliances, propane tanks and washed-up woody material from Hurricane Helene, restoring safe public access to the hiking trail and 65-foot waterfall.

In other waterfall news, the Linville Falls parking area off the Blue Ridge Parkway has reopened, providing access to the Linville Gorge trailhead to Plunge Basin Overlook, a popular one-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a beautiful view of the lower falls. During Helene, flooding destroyed the Visitor Center, and the campground, picnic area and trails were heavily damaged. Until a new Visitor Center is built, Porta-jons are available to hikers. The National Forest Service Parking area off NC Hwy 183 remains open as a second access point to the Upper Falls.

The Profile Trail on Grandfather Mountain has officially reopened ahead of schedule, thanks to Grandfather Mountain State Park rangers, staff, and supporters. The Park’s “Profile Trail Parking Area” located on NC Hwy 105 (across from The Pedalin’ Pig) has also reopened. While the lower trail section by the river remains closed for rebuilding, hikers can take the upper connector that intersects with the Grandfather Trail at Callaway Gap on the crest of Grandfather.

The 3.6-mile Profile Trail begins at the reopened parking area on the west side of the mountain and steadily climbs about 1,775 ft. to an elevation of 5,675 ft. As you climb, you’ll travel through seven different natural communities, including Rich Cove and Acid Cove Forests, Northern Hardwood Forest, Boulderfield Forest, and ultimately to the high elevation Red Spruce and Fraser Fir Forest. On your hike, discover seasonal wildflowers, ferns, rhododendrons, wetland herbs, and a variety of deciduous and evergreen trees.

n Hit the Slopes for Some Amazing Mtn. Biking

When summer arrives, our local slopes continue to be a big draw for vacationers and residents—especially those who love mountain biking!

At Beech Mountain Resort, from early June until late September, ski slopes become downhill mountain biking trails. The Beech Mountain Bike Park provides chairlift service to the top of the 5,506’ peak, allowing riders to choose from a variety of trails back down to the resort village. Ten trails range from “easy” to “expert only.” Riders may bring their own bike or rent one in the resort village, but all riders must purchase chairlift passes to ride to the top. One-time use and all-day passes are available, and lessons are also offered. The park bike operates 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Thursday to Sunday through September 6, and continues with a Friday to Sunday schedule from September 11 to 27. beechmountainresort.com

Sugar Mountain Resort’s ski slopes have also been adapted to accommodate downhill biking, along with scenic lift rides. In addition to weekend riding, their summer schedule includes several competitive mountain biking events.

July 3 through September 7: Scenic Chairlift Rides | Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, plus Labor Day Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., enjoy scenic chairlift rides aboard Easy Street and Summit Express, which shuttles bikers and foot-passengers to the mountain’s peak. Note: Schedule changes are in effect during mountain bike competition weekends. seesugar.com/july-4th

July 10-12 and August 7-9: Teen & Tween Gravity Mountain Bike Camp | Three days of fun, friends, and developing and improving gravity skills for tweens and teens ages 11-16.  skisugar.com/ bikepark/#gravity

August 1-2:  Go Nuts North Carolina Funduro–International Enduro (Round 5) Series | Go Nuts Racing is a regional/international Championship Series. Join in the action as racers from around the world do battle on Sugar’s classic tracks. The competition heats up with a grueling Enduro on Sunday.  gonutsbiking.com

August 15 and 16: Gravity Carolinas Mountain Bike Competition | An adventurous weekend of downhill racing on one of Sugar Mountain’s classic racetracks. Gravity Carolinas is a grassroots event for participants of all levels. gravitycarolinas.com

n Group Hikes with Seven Devils Parks & Rec

Join a fun group of people to explore beautiful hiking trails in the Appalachian Mountains. Dates and destinations include: July 10, Flat Top Mountain from Cone Manor, 5.1 miles; August 7, Blue Ridge Conservancy Hiking Trail–Aho Road, 2.2 miles; and September 11, Appalachian Trail, Oliver Hollow Road to Watauga Dam, 5.8 miles.

TRAIL

To participate in summer group hikes, meet at the Seven Devils Community Center (1356 Seven Devils Rd.) at 9 a.m. to caravan to the hike destination. Bring appropriate footwear, water, sunscreen and snacks. (Prior to departure, participants will be asked to sign the Seven Devils waiver.) sevendevilsnc.gov/parks-and-recreation

n Linville Caverns – Stroll Inside a Mountain

Some of the most fascinating geological formations in the North Carolina mountains are not above ground, but deep beneath Humpback Mountain in northern McDowell County. Written records show that in the early 1800s, Linville Caverns were “discovered” by settlers during a fishing expedition.

Since their discovery, the Caverns have been well researched, with numerous studies on their geological composition, the biology of species living there, and their history and folklore. The cave environment and cave-dwelling organisms are ecologically important and unique due to lack of light, high humidity, a steady temperature, and limited food sources inside the caverns.

Because of their delicate ecosystem and rich history, Linville Caverns is a Federally Protected National Heritage Site; yet, they remain open to current day explorers year-round for guided tours!

NC’s only commercial limestone caverns opened to the public in 1937. Now privately owned and operated, the folks at Linville Caverns offer visitors a safe and comfortable trip into this subterranean world of “rooms” and “fanciful underground labyrinths” that have been naturally carved into the rock by slowly moving groundwater. Level pathways, custom designed lighting and frequent tours mean that anyone can experience the Caverns, any time of the year.

Linville Caverns is located just south of the village of Linville Falls, on U.S. Highway 221. Visit linvillecaverns.com for seasonal hours and to plan your next visit.

n Attention Endurance Athletes!

In addition to being home to Linville Caverns, McDowell County has emerged as a premier East Coast destination for endurance athletes, offering challenging elevation, technical terrain, and sweeping mountain views. Known for its “Hellbender 100,” one of the

highest-elevation ultramarathons in the eastern U.S., McDowell has put together a 2026 race calendar that includes a wide range of approachable road races and half marathons, as well as demanding ultra-distance trail runs and mountain biking competitions.

This summer, athletes can participate in the Jerdon Mountain Challenge on July 25, the ORAMM (Off-Road Assault on Mt. Mitchell) on July 26, and the Pisgah Enduro on August 10.

“It’s a real thrill for us to welcome racers of all abilities and watch them take on these courses,” said Shannon Odom, executive director of Destination McDowell. “We love cheering for them at the start, celebrating with them at the finish, and then bumping into them afterward around town at our cafés, wineries, and breweries. That sense of community is what keeps people coming back.”

Beyond race days, McDowell County’s growing trail system supports year-round recreation for runners, cyclists, and hikers, reinforcing the area’s reputation as “a place where outdoor adventure is part of everyday life.” Learn more at destinationmcdowell.com.

n Run the Beech Race Series

Run the Beech is a running/walking race series on Beech Mountain that has the goal of offering an affordable outdoor activity for all abilities. These races highlight the unique terrain that Beech has to offer, with two options available for each race: a short course (1 to 2 miles), and a long course (3 to 4 miles). This season’s races take place on Friday, July 3, and Friday, July 24, starting at 6 p.m. Food and drinks are included at every course; registration is required at webscorer.com/beechparks. Find more details at beechmtn.com/ event/run-the-beech-race-series-2.

n Nature and Forest Therapy at Grandfather Mountain

On August 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., join Mattie Decker, a certified forest therapy guide, for a relaxing 2 to 2.5-hour stroll through the forest at Grandfather Mountain. Through a series of invitations, you will have the opportunity to focus on being present in the moment, deepening your connection with nature and community and enjoying the many gifts nature has to offer. Forest bathing walks invite guests to spend time in nature in a way that invites healing for us, as well as our fraught ecosystems, and our community. Learn more and register at grandfather.com/event/mindfulness-foresttherapy/

n High Country Wild: A New Chapter

Since 1945, the North Carolina Wildlife Federation (NCWF) has been dedicated to protecting, conserving, and restoring NC wildlife

and its habitats. A statewide network of 19 chapters work together to support the mission of this 501(c)3 organization. Each Community Wildlife Chapter is uniquely designed to empower local wildlife enthusiasts—anglers, backpackers, birders, hunters, gardeners and hikers—to have a direct and effective impact on the conservation of wildlife in their local communities and across the state.

High Country Wild is a newly formed community chapter of the NCWF, working to protect wildlife and restore habitats specifically in Ashe and Watauga counties. “Through hands-on conservation, education programs, and community events, we empower neighbors to be good stewards of the lands, waters and wildlife that make the High Country so special.”

Join an NCWF Community Wildlife Chapter and get involved. For those interested in learning more about High Country Wild, visit highcountrywild.org. To learn more about the NCWF and its other chapters, visit ncwf.org

n Hike with Blue Ridge Conservancy

Blue Ridge Conservancy, a private non-profit organization devoted to protecting land in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties, offers a series of “Guided Hikes,” with each hiking location having its own unique story about how it was conserved. Some of these hikes are on public land that BRC helped acquire, or private conservation easements held by BRC. All hikes are guided by BRC’s staff and registration is required at blueridgeconservancy.org/guided-hikes

This summer’s events include:

July 11 - Hike & Blueberry Picking at Old Orchard Creek Farm (strenuous hike)

August 22 - Guided Hike at Three Top Mountain (moderately strenuous hike)

In addition to BRC’s “Guided Hikes,” they have recently begun offering a series of “Amphibo-Hikes,” monthly hikes to introduce nature lovers to the Amphibolite Mountains and some of the potential corridors along the Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST) that is currently in development.

The NPST is a designated North Carolina state trail, and when completed will stretch from Boone in Watauga County to West Jefferson in Ashe County via the “Northern Peaks” (also known as the Amphibolite Mountains), a subrange of the Blue Ridge Mountains that divides the New River and Watauga River watersheds. The Amphibolites include Howard Knob, Snake Mountain, Elk Knob, The Peak, Three Top Mountain, Paddy Mountain, and Mount Jefferson.

This season’s Amphibo-Hikes include: July 31 - Paddy Mountain Park

August 28 - Elk Knob State Park

September 25 - Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

Registration is required at blueridgeconservancy.org/amphibohikes. Learn more about the Blue Ridge Conservancy’s work and special events at blueridgeconservancy.org.

n Restoration on Roan Mountain

After Hurricane Helene’s 100 mph winds tore through Roan Mountain, Forest Service wildlife biologists, botanists, foresters and the District Ranger joined experts from the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, and other organizations to assess the damage in the “Highlands of Roan” and to map out a recovery plan.

This area, a treasured destination for hiking, camping, scenic views and outdoor recreation, suffered from countless downed trees, which damaged a vulnerable ecosystem, increased wildfire risk, and prevented many outdoor recreation opportunities that local communities depend on.

“Roan Mountain is a unique and important habitat that’s home to a high diversity of plant and animal species, including rare spruce-fir forests, spectacular rhododendrons that bloom in the early summer, and over 250 rare plants” said, Lauren Wilson, a wildlife biologist with the National Forest Service in North Carolina. “Several endangered wildlife species rely on this high elevation ecosystem for survival.”

After doing fuel reduction work in the area over many months, the Forest Service returned to Roan this spring with partners and volunteers to replant red spruce trees and help restore this rare ecosystem. The effort is part of the Southern Appalachian Spruce Restoration Initiative (SASRI), a partnership of academic, nonprofit and government organizations to restore spruce ecosystems across the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Over time, these trees will help increase habitat for the federally listed Carolina northern flying squirrel and spruce fir moss spider, along with rare bird species such as the saw-whet owl and red crossbill.

For the full story, visit www.fs.usda.gov (www.fs.usda.gov/r08/ northcarolina/newsroom/stories/replanting-spruce-and-rebuildinghabitat-roan-mountain).

n Good News for the New River

Hurricane Helene left her mark on so many places in the New River Watershed, home to some of the most biologically diverse

Continued on next page

TRAIL REPORTS

species in the world and a recreation mecca for millions. Ashe County, NC, was especially hard it, with homes destroyed, parks and trees gone, roadways and bridges washed away, and the riverbed forever changed.

In just one example, the New River Access Park on Rt 163 in West Jefferson was flooded and the information kiosk was swept away, along with trees, part of the parking lot and an iconic hellbender sculpture. But as of early summer, there’s some great news for this park: the new kiosk is near completion, trees have been replanted along the riparian buffer, and the hellbender sculpture has found its way back to the park. Perhaps the best news is that the river along this stretch may now be cleaner than it has been in a long, long time. That’s in no small part due to the work of the New River Conservancy (NRC), who has always been dedicated to “uplifting the quality of the river” for wildlife and recreation.

NRC, its partners, and volunteers have worked tirelessly since that day in September 2024. Little by little, mile by mile, the New is returning to a healthy, clean, and free-flowing state as their river clean-ups continue along several heavily used sections of the river, including the South Fork. In one recent cleanup, over 2,300 pounds of trash and debris, including 12 tires, 10 studded fence posts, one rusty plow, a washing machine drum, and a ton of lumber studded with nails were plucked from the waters.

The New River Conservancy’s NC Clean Up Coordinator, Will Sowards, said, “Our river clean-ups are heating up and the New needs your help. Please keep an eye out for ways to get involved this summer. Thank you to everyone who’s been a part of the journey so far. We have removed over 9,000 pounds of trash and debris in the first 25 miles of the South Fork!”

The NRC team added, “We are so grateful for our volunteers and our partner organizations Keep Ashe Beautiful, NC Wildlife Federation’s High Country Wild Chapter, NC State Parks, and NC Works.” Check out the NRC’s events page for opportunities to participate in a clean-up: newriverconservancy.org/events/.

n New! Waterfalls and Wineries Map

In our Spring issue, we featured our local map maker, Mark File, who has created a series of helpful maps that guide folks to destinations all over the High Country. His latest map project, just released, is the Waterfalls & Wineries Road Trip Map. Travel a 70-mile loop from Banner Elk that takes you to six waterfalls and three wineries, plus much more along the way. Waterfalls include Linville Falls, Elk River Falls, Otter Creek Falls, Crab Orchard Falls, Waterfalls Park and Buckeye Creek Falls. Wineries include Banner Elk Winery, Grandfather Vineyard and Linville Falls winery.

Digital versions are available for free downloads at bannerelk. com. Paper copies can be found at Visitor Centers and many area businesses while supplies last.

n Camp Wisely

Camping this summer? A clean campsite is one of the best ways to prevent bear encounters and stay safe. Follow these tips from BearWise (Bearwise.org) and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCwildlife.gov):

-Keep a clean camp.

-Don’t burn food scraps or trash in your fire ring or grill.

-Do not store food, trash, clothes worn when cooking, or toiletries in your tent. Store them in approved bear resistant containers OR out of sight in a locked vehicle OR suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 10 feet from any part of the tree.

-In the backcountry, set up camp away from dense cover and natural food sources.

-Cook at least 100 yards from your tent, downwind if possible.

-Leash your dogs: leashes help protect other visitors and pets; wildlife in the area; and your own dog from dangerous encounters with bears, cliffs, snakes, or getting lost.

**Firewood Notice**— If your camping experience involves building fires at your campsite, please be aware that the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services is urging the public to use only LOCAL firewood. According to the NCDA&CS, “A good rule of thumb is to burn wood within a 50-mile radius of its origin.” Invasive and destructive pests, such as the spotted lanternfly, the Asian longhorned beetle, and the European spongy moth, among others, can hitch a ride on firewood and infest trees in our State Parks, forests and private campgrounds. Learn more at ncagr.gov/ plantindustry.

$5,995,000

This entire platted community is offered as one package . . . a rare 70 acre development opportunity in the heart of the High Country. Included are all platted homesites, road infrastructure, riverfront access, and long-range view parcels.

Avery Specialty Clinic

NOW OPEN and located within the Sloop Medical Office Plaza in Linville, the Avery Specialty Clinic brings Women’s Health and AppGastro services to Avery County, offering two specialty services in one convenient location.

Women’s Health

Comprehensive gynecology, obstetric, and prenatal care services, including well-woman exams, preventive screenings, contraception counseling, pregnancy care, and treatment of complex gynecologic conditions. (828) 268-8970

AppGastro

Specialized gastroenterology care, including colonoscopies and treatment of digestive conditions such as acid reflux, indigestion, bloating, gallbladder disorders, and abdominal pain. (828) 264-0029 unchealthappalachian.org

From Pond to Free-Flowing Stream Plans take Shape for the Banner Elk Mill Pond

By Tamara S. Randolph

One of the first notable landmarks that visitors encounter as they drive into Banner Elk, NC, is the historic Cheese House, built in 1917 by the Shawneehaw Cheese Cooperative, makers of award-winning cheddar. According to the Town of Banner Elk, the Cheese House is “probably the structure in Banner Elk that people see the most and know the least about.” Following the closure of the cheese business during the Depression, the House served in a number of capacities over the years, most recently as office space for Lees-McRae College, which owns the property.

The rust-colored structure is situated aside a picturesque pond, known simply as the “Mill Pond,” at the confluence of Elk River and Shawneehaw Creek. Cruising by the pond at a slow 25 miles per hour (the Town’s speed limit), one might notice locals fishing along the banks and an unusual assortment of waterfowl bobbing nearby. What they might not notice, off in the distance, is an old concrete dam—and the problems this damaged water barrier is now presenting.

Shifting Waters, Shifting Priorities

Samuel Henry Banner, one of Banner Elk’s earliest settlers, built the first dam in the area in the late 1800s to power his twostory gristmill. Around 1912, the dam was re-engineered to generate hydroelectric power for the college and the entire community through the years.

The dam’s primary purpose today is to block the natural waterway to keep the historic Mill Pond intact. However, in September 2024, the dam sustained damage during Hurricane Helene and no longer functions as it should; in its current state, it is at risk of collapsing. Muddy water is leaking from the bottom of the structure into the river, causing water quality issues downstream.

Long before Helene’s wrath, the College, the Town of Banner Elk, and other parties had discussed the future of the pond and surrounding areas, envisioning enhanced educational and recreational opportunities with an eye toward long-term sustainability. Yet, the hurricane and its destruction forced stakeholders to move Mill Pond plans up higher on the priority list.

The Flow of Ideas

This past spring, Dr. Lee King, President of Lees-McRae College, and Andy Hill, Watauga Riverkeeper and MountainTrue High Country Regional Director, organized and hosted an open forum in Banner Elk to present Lees-McRae’s “Mill Pond Revitalization” project to the community and invite questions. Attendees learned that the project’s ultimate goal is not to repair the dam but to return the waterway to more natural conditions through dam removal and stream restoration.

Andy Hill explained that dams “increase water temperature, reduce river flows, lessen the amount of dissolved oxygen required by fish, amphibians, and other aquatic species, and block the natural flow of sediment and debris.” He noted that a dam acts as “an obstacle for local aquatic wildlife” and cited examples of recent dam removal projects in our mountain region that have “greatly improved aquatic habitat and river health.”

The Mill Pond Revitalization project is expected to address these very issues, resulting in reduced sediment, improved water quality, and healthier ecosystems, as well as increased flood resistance—a key goal for a town that experienced catastrophic flooding and infrastructure damage in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Once the project kicks off, an early step is to remove the excess sediment that has accumulated in the pond. Then the dam will be dismantled in phases. Native trees and vegetation will be planted along the banks to create a riparian zone. Boulder vanes will be installed to stabilize the stream and improve aquatic habitat. And what about that unusual assortment of waterfowl? According to Hill, many of the birds that call the Mill Pond home would likely remain in the area, using calmer sections of the river, while the domesticated waterfowl will be relocated to sanctuaries.

Continued on next page

BLUE RIDGE EXPLORERS

Photo by Mark File

Looking Downstream

Over time, the Revitalization project will lead to expanded recreation and green space. Picture a vast community corridor where locals and visitors can hike along a network of trails and a pedestrian bridge, cast a line from a fishing deck, relax in a pavilion beside pools of moving water, observe wildlife, and enjoy the many benefits of a healthy river for years to come. And, importantly, the history of the Mill Pond will be preserved through historical markers and interpretive signage, along with a museum display inside the historic Cheese House.

Next steps include fundraising, grant approvals, and permitting. With a final “go-ahead,” the project is expected to take 18 months to two years to complete. Additional meetings will take place in the near future, allowing for more opportunities for the community to provide input and ask questions. Until then, LeesMcRae, in partnership with MountainTrue and the Town of Banner Elk, have compiled an informative “Frequently Asked Questions” page at lmc.edu/community/mill-pond-revitalization.htm. There, they also offer a form to provide feedback or suggestions regarding the Mill Pond Revitalization project.

Learn more about the work of MountainTrue at mountaintrue.org.

WELCOME

“The Lord is my Shepherd! He restores my soul!”

As you behold the mountain grandeur, may God lead you to join in worship with the many people of faith in the High Country.

“The mountains shall bring peace to the people!” Psalm 72:3

We welcome you to join us for worship: MOUNTAINSIDE LUTHERAN CHURCH 1308 Linville Falls Highway, Newland, NC 28657 9:30 am Sundays

And High Country Lutheran Church 446 Ashe Park Road, Jefferson, NC 28640 10 am Sundays

The Enduring Glories of a Mountain Summer

By Jim Casada

By the time late June lays its soothing hand on the mountains and summer begins to settle in place, the last fits and starts of spring cold snaps have vanished and the High Country settles into a time of confidence, comfort, and a congenial way of living. Each part of a summer’s day has its own character, rhythm, and comfort. Morning after morning dawns soft and silent, with layers of fog embracing the ridgelines like quilts folded on a rack or across the foot of a bed. Mystic mist seems to rise from every cove and hollow, tinged with the faintest hint of blue and ephemeral as the bloom of a lady slipper or the trail of a comet streaking across the sky. Soon enough though, the sun will drive mist away as the warmth of another day embraces ridgelines and valleys with a comfort as old as time itself.

Then comes what old-timers invariably call “the heat of the day,” those hot hours from vanishing mist to early evening’s welcome cool. It’s a time of going barefooted, of June bugs (which always come in July) buzzing about and tempting a lad or lass to tie a bit of sewing thread to them for their own equivalent of a cost-free drone; and of hoeing out one row of corn and moving on to the next. Bees and butterflies bring honey to the hive and loveliness to the eye, and meticulously tended gardens yield the sort of tasty bounty sure to bring pure desire to the finest of chefs or the most talented of cooks reigning in a mountain kitchen.

By late afternoon, haziness reminiscent of morning’s mists— as they faded before the sun’s persistence—softens the gloaming with a sort of trompe l’oeil that is, as my grandfather was wont to say when he found some element of the natural world particularly appealing, “a thing of beauty.” More often than not at this time of day, when heat or humidity threatens to become oppressive, dark clouds gather and evening thunderstorms

bring heavenly fireworks and a welcome drop in temperatures. Then, as twilight yields to night, a glorious hallelujah chorus of katydids brings background music to porch sittings and bean stringings. Lightning bugs and luminous click beetles provide sparks of insect prestidigitation while rocking chair residents welcome gentle breezes bringing ease and pleasure to those wise in and attuned to mountain ways. Evening is a grand time for the telling of tales, reliving glad moments in times gone by, or merely savoring the joys of the closing chapter of one more summer day.

As night settles in, lavishing a velvet hush over the land, mountains stand silhouetted in the dark as they have for ages beyond the measure of man. It’s a time of peace, gazing at the stars, feeling small amidst the immensity of your surroundings while sensing you are a tiny part of something that is as good and comforting as sliced tomatoes, fresh from the vine, gracing the supper table alongside a pone of cornbread. That’s simple, satisfying fare, and so it is with a mountain summer’s air.

The season isn’t a brash, blistering affair as it is across so much of the country. Instead, summer is subtly layered like the fine tablecloth my mother crocheted so many decades ago— a patchwork and piecework of pleasures linked by love, habit, and memory. There are pleasures aplenty to be had—blackberries laden with diamonds of dew and bearing glorious promise of cobblers and jellies to come, mountaintop rhododendron abloom in a sea of floral wonder, trout streams inviting lovers of the long rod and whistling line to explore their mysteries and magic, or the inveigling music of rain on a tin roof as a twilight thunderstorm cools the air and quenches the earth.

This time of year explains why those who left their highland homeland for better paying jobs or greater financial promise

elsewhere so often find their way back to the High Country. Maybe they return for a community homecoming, a high school class reunion, or a family gathering. Some come back for good, for rest assured that the old adage suggesting “home is where the heart is” holds true for this land of steep ridges and deep hollers. Summer is a touchstone, a reminder that true richness in life comes from the cadence of sweet days shaped by sun and rain, dew-drenched mornings and soft evening rains. This is a land and a season that lavishes love in an irresistible fashion, one that asks little and gives a lot. If the essence of life is measured in terms of sweetness, then surely a mountain summer closely resembles pure sourwood honey, a nectar that nurtures and nourishes.

Like all the mountain seasons, summer also is laden with signs and portents, hints and harbingers of what lies ahead. Old-timers knew and noted these auguries, and even as we pay homage to this time of year, it seems advisable to heed what our forebears knew about the world where they lived and what it held for them in the near future.

If a cool August follows a hot July Coming winter will be hard and dry.

Or a similar and perhaps slightly contradictory offering: If the heat of early August comes on Coming winter will be hard and long.

Early September offered its own signals of what was to come:

Doves calling on a young September day

Means a gentle rain is surely on the way.

Along with the rhyming couplets that have long been so much a part of mountain weather wisdom, there were short “one-liner” admonitions aplenty for guidance.

Clear at dawn, storms by noon.

When clouds climb the ridges, look for rain.

Foggy valley in the morn; fair day in the offing.

When birds hush while insects get loud, rain is near.

Mountain thunder travels fast.

A southwest breeze is likely to carry rain.

The hotter the morning, the worse the storm.

When rain really sets in, it sets in.

(What was sometimes known as a three-day rain).

A quiet sunset means the mountains are done for the day.

Or finally, a favorite of this writer, since it aptly points to the changeability so characteristic of mountain weather in the summertime:

If you don’t like the weather, just walk over the next ridge.

Jim Casada is a longtime freelance writer and the author of dozens of books. His next work, Profiles in Mountain Character, is currently in press with the University of Tennessee Press. For details or to sign up for his free monthly e-newsletter, visit www. jimcasadaoutdoors.com

The Invaluable Vulture

By Paul Laurent

Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway in the summer is a magical experience. Arching branches of oak and maple trees form a canopy of green over the road, while the rhododendron thickets make a wall of white flowers along each side; it’s as though you’re driving through a living tunnel. A moment later you round a bend and the view opens into a vista of endless blue mountains stretching out to the horizon. Occasional mountain meadows are seas of wildflowers waving in the sun, with the occasional cow looking at you from behind a split rail fence with a vaguely judgmental expression.

The picturesque beauty of this particular drive was marred by a dead white-tailed deer a few yards off the road in one of those meadows. No doubt another casualty of the ever-increasing numbers of cars on our roads.

This particular deer has attracted a wake of Turkey Vultures (that’s really what they’re called). Five or six of the large, dark birds surround the carcass, strutting and hopping around like oversized, macabre chickens. Several more are perched in a lone, dead tree in the middle of the field, their wings spread in the sun, looking rather ominous in an Edgar Allen Poe sort of way. Black and silver wings contrast sharply with the bare white wood of the barkless trunk. Still more Vultures circle low over the field, waiting for an opening to feed.

Turkey Vultures are rarely called beautiful. Their bodies appear black, but are actually a very dark brown color, while their bald heads are covered with wrinkled, red skin. Their beak has a white tip, and their nostrils are large. The lack of feathers also gives them a bit of a ‘pin-headed’ appearance, like their body outgrew their head. In flight they are easily recognizable by their huge size—they have a six-foot wingspan; only a bald eagle is larger in this area. Their dark bodies are accented by silvery feathers on the primary and secondary flight feathers (the trailing half of the wing as they soar overhead). Turkey Vultures are known for holding their wings in a ‘dihedral,’ which is a fancy term for a slight “V” shape. They are also known to wobble a bit as they soar, like they’ve had a few drinks, but can still walk home.

The whole ‘bald, wrinkly red head’ aesthetic, combined with their scavenger lifestyle, make the Turkey Vulture a frequently maligned species. In reality, these are some of the most incredible creatures in the High Country, and well worth your admiration!

That wobbly flight with the slightly upswept wings can carry a Turkey Vulture over 200 miles in a day, with almost no flapping. It’s quite common to see several dozen Vultures circling lazily on a warm day, using thermals to keep them aloft with practically zero effort. They use this circling flight to help them find their next meal, determining which direction has the strongest scent.

Turkey Vultures have incredible noses. While not as powerful as bears, elephants, or bloodhounds, Vultures are extreme specialists. They can smell ethyl mercaptan, the chemical released by freshly decomposing flesh, from up to eight miles away. Studies have found that a Turkey Vulture can find a recently dead rat, covered in leaves on the forest floor, from miles away.

Once they find their meal, in this case a deer with bad luck on the side of the Blue Ridge Parkway, that white-tipped beak comes into play. While their feet have much more in common with a chicken, lacking the sharp talons of other raptors, their beaks are strong and sharp enough to cut through an animal’s hide. And now the story gets a little bit gross to us humans…

The reason for that bald, wrinkly head is not to impress the lady Turkey Vultures (although I’m sure the males think they look ruggedly handsome). Feathers are a great thing if you’re a bird— they let you fly, keep you dry, keep you warm in the cold weather and cool in the hot weather—but they only work if they’re clean and neatly preened. Since the best parts of a dead deer are on the inside, that’s where the Vultures need to go for lunch. Having a bald head lets the vulture stick it inside the dead deer to get to the nice juicy parts without making a mess of the hard-to-preen feathers on their head.

Their feeding technique may be a bit different than ours, and one might even say a bit on the disgusting side, but that doesn’t mean Vultures are dirty animals. None of those Vultures

Continued on next page

perched with spread wings in the dead tree have read Edgar Allen Poe. They aren’t trying to be spooky or ominous or melodramatic. By spreading those dark wings in the sun, they are raising their temperature to kill bacteria. Remember, you get a one- or two-degree fever when you’re sick because the germs infecting you can’t handle the higher temperature. Vultures do the same thing by basking in the sun to cook the many germs that inhabit a carcass off their bodies. They choose the dead tree because their feet are made for walking on the ground. They need broad branches to stand on because they’re really bad at grabbing onto smaller sticks. Their six-foot wingspan also means that a bunch of small branches can get in the way, so big tree snags (and sometimes barns, churches, etc.) are chosen as roosting

LUXURY CABINS AND RIVERFRONT RV SITES

Enjoy

The practical side for us humans is that these birds provide an invaluable service. By eating the dead animals, Vultures are the best disease control we have. A Turkey Vulture’s stomach acid has a pH of just over 0, making it comparable to battery acid. This means when Vultures consume a carcass, their digestive system destroys all the germs and pathogens that would otherwise continue to spread and potentially infect other animals, including humans.

An example of their importance: In India in the 1990s, a new anti-inflammatory drug for cattle was introduced that caused kidney failure in Vultures who consumed dead cattle. The Vulture population plummeted by 99%. They went from being among the most populous birds of prey to being on the verge of extinction in just a few years. Feral dog and rat populations skyrocketed, rabies increased exponentially, and diseases like anthrax ravaged communities. An estimated 500,000 people died as a result of the disappearance of Vultures in India. Fortunately, the drug was banned, and Vultures have made a remarkable recovery in India.

That Vulture on the side of the road, or soaring over the highway, is one of the most important animals you will likely encounter. While they may not be pretty, I hope you appreciate just how remarkable and vital they are to our mountains.

The Virginia Creeper Trail

On the Path to Completion

By Joe Tennis

Hurricane Helene slammed the most popular part of the Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail between the North Carolina border and into the Town of Damascus, Virginia. The storm caused catastrophic damage, ripping down trestles and sending them downstream through a picture-perfect trout stream. This mountain-climbing, rail-to-trail section from Damascus to the eastern terminus at Whitetop in Grayson County, VA (near the border of Ashe County, NC) remains closed in the summer of 2026, as crews from Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. re-channel water courses and re-construct trestles and the trail.

But there’s good news for those who want to take a ride on “The Creeper” this season, according to Michael Wright, owner of Damascus-based Sundog Outfitters, one of the largest bike shops and shuttle services on the Virginia Creeper Trail. He says the western half of the trail (about 17 miles) remains open between “the heart” at Damascus and “the start” in Abingdon, the artsy town known as the home to the Barter Theatre. “All the business we have now goes to Abingdon,” Wright says.

“The Start”

Abingdon plays a key role in the history of this popular rail-to-trail. Dating

to the late 1800s, what eventually became the “Virginia-Carolina Railway” began in Abingdon. It was nicknamed the “Virginia Creeper” for either how slow the trains ran or the Virginia Creeper vines that grew along the route. This Virginia portion—from Abingdon to Damascus to Whitetop—became a 34-mile-long recreation trail within a decade after trains stopped running in 1977.

Damascus Town Manager Chris Bell encourages visitors to come and explore the historic route from Abingdon to Damascus. “The locals know how special that section is—it’s a wonderful section to experience. And on either end, you have restaurants and great places to shop.” He says that trail counts are down from when the entire path was intact. “But it is not zero,” Bell adds. “We are still getting visitors who are giving the other half a try. You get some wonderful farmland experiences.”

The two sides of the trail do not mirror each other. What’s missing is the dramatic downhill slope—from Whitetop Station to Damascus—in the east, also known as the “upper section.” But that does not mean the western half is exactly flat. The trail slopes from Abingdon down to a curved trestle crossing South Holston Lake near Alvarado Station. Yet, unlike the National For-

est section that is being re-constructed, E-bikes are allowed between Abingdon and Damascus, Bell says.

“The Heart”

Even before the storm made going west a business necessity, Wright had planned on expanding Sundog Outfitters shuttle services from Damascus to the Abingdon area, he says. “I don’t ever expect it to be as busy as the eastern half. You can’t compare the numbers of people we’re taking to Abingdon to what we used to take to Whitetop. It’s just not the same league.”

But Damascus draws visitors for many reasons, not just The Creeper. This “Town of Many Trails” makes a great gateway to both the Cherokee National Forest to the south and the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area to the east. Uniquely, Damascus contains an onsidewalk slice of the Appalachian Trail near the halfway mark of the Virginia Creeper Trail.

Wright says, “People from all over the place love coming to Damascus. This is their happy place. This is the place that they get away to, and they happen to ride the Creeper Trail because it’s there.”

Longtime Creeper Trail documentarian Richard Smith agrees. “Damascus is probably the closest to the ‘American life’ that you’re going to get. You feel

‘Start to Heart’ section of Virgina Creeper

“There’s good news for those who want to take a ride on ‘The Creeper’ this season.”

good letting your kids run free and play in the creek, ride their bikes in the back streets. It’s a rare thing to find.”

The Construction Zone

The storm hit on September 27, 2024; the boom effectively ended the 17-mile run between Whitetop Station and Damascus in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area of Virginia. That stretch had kept about a half-dozen Damascus-based bike shuttles like Sundog in business for years. Many riders loved to rent bikes and pay for a shuttle ride up the mountain so all they had to do was coast back to town.

“You’re missing the downhill glide— the moderately effortless roll down the hill where gravity does most of the work,” says Smith. “We’re also missing the sheer beauty of the [Mt. Rogers] national forest, the uncluttered beauty.”

Smith, 87, is a former chairman of the Virginia Creeper Trail Advisory Board. Soon after Helene’s fury faded, he took to the woods with a couple of friends, wanting to document damage for their own website. “Not only were the trestles in bits and pieces, with great big steel beams washed hundreds of yards downstream, but the trail was gone,” Smith says. “Where the creek made a turn, it scoured the bank. It’s like someone took a giant scoop and just scooped out the

bank right up to the cliff face. So, you had a big cliff with a deep pool where the trail had been washed out.”

Such scenes have since been in the construction zone, ongoing through 2026. Kiewit is working on the project in association with the U.S. Forest Service. “They are completely re-doing the trail from Damascus up to Grayson County,” Bell notes. “It’s not just those bridges. It’s the slope, the grade, the drainage itself. They’re going to widen it and have better drainage and design.”

Wright says the reconstructed eastern half should be open by the spring of 2027. “I think it will be beautiful and smoother and wider and easier to get up and down,” he explains. While the construction zone continues to be off-limits, he’s already making plans for a new beginning. “The sky is getting brighter. We’re getting closer to coming back. We’re looking forward to new adventures and more people coming to visit.”

Certainly, it will be “a blessing” to have the trail back, says Bell. “It has been our economic lifeline essentially for the last 30 years.”

Conversely, Bell says, “I think this was actually a blessing in disguise. It was a good wake-up call for our town and our region to go, ‘Let’s not put all our eggs in a single basket.’ It has forced us to do some diversification over the past

year and a half. If the initial attraction is the Virginia Creeper Trail, fantastic. But stay and play longer to do more than just the Creeper Trail upper section. Take advantage of all the wonderful things that are not only in Damascus but within a 45-minute radius of Damascus.”

Plan your visit to the area, and follow updates on the Virginia Creeper Trail by visiting these websites: visitdamascus.org, visitabingdonvirginia.com, facebook.com/ VirginiaCreeperTrailConservancy, creepertrailrebuild.com.

Call-out/filler if it fits somewhere : “We’re coming back better than we’ve ever been. . . In the meantime, join us in enjoying the beautiful half of the Virginia Creeper Trail that remains open, from the ‘Start to the Heart,’ Abingdon to Damascus.” - Katie Lamb, Mayor of Damascus, VA

On the Water

By Edwin Ansel

Treesshussssh in a soft breeze. There is warm sun on your shoulders, and then cool shade…this is practically a spa treatment. Smell the freshly mown hay. Somewhere children are laughing. There are no screens for a mile in any direction, and no phones ringing. You reach out and sweep the water with your hand, you’re maneuvering just a bit because your cooler has a flotation device of its own…

Yes, you’re tubing on the New River. Sound good? It is good. It’s a foretaste of heaven. And there are teams of smart, generous people up here in the High Country who just can’t wait to make this—and other adventures — happen for you.

Zaloo’s Canoes is the grandad of the outfitters offering the flat-water experience on the New River, easing now into their 50th year hosting people on the water. “Flat water” is just what it sounds like. “There isn’t anything you’d call a rapid on our stretch of the river,” says Mac Cornish, the man in charge. “It’s great for families and groups; it’s easy to stay together.” Zaloo’s has an excellent website that will help you plan, showing maps, restaurants, attractions. “Our boathouse in Jefferson is about two

hours from Charlotte or Greensboro (and a half-hour from Boone). You can be here by ten, spend two or three hours on the water. We bring you back to your car, you can spend the afternoon in West Jefferson—a great destination—the kids fall asleep in the car, and you’re home by seven!” Zaloo’s offers tubes, canoes and kayaks, a boathouse with facilities, and if you forget something, not to worry, their shop has everything you’ll need.

What if you want to take it up a notch? What if you want rapids? Edge of the World can take you down the Watauga River. “It starts when you board our bus in Banner Elk,” says Jake Barrow, “with the show that our staff creates, folks cry they’re laughing so hard.” The first part of the river has rapids, culminating at the big one, “Anaconda,” where you’ll stop for a legendary fried chicken lunch. “It’s our family recipe. People have told me that our lunch is half the reason they come.” Edge of the World has another special offering at this point. “The river is dam-controlled, so we have a guaranteed flow of water every day but Sunday. And we own the land at Anaconda, so we stay and run that rapid over and over, as many times as you like. We’re the only company that offers this opportunity.” Below

Anaconda the river is calm and flat, a great place to jump out and swim or just lounge in the sun. “We’ve got some of everything,” says Jake. The white water and the flat, the great food, the sassy and joyful company culture, and the memories. “It’s The Show.”

What if you want to take it up another notch? High Mountain Expeditions offers full-day trips on the French Broad River, which offers Class III and IV rapids, suitable for both new paddlers and those with more experience. “We offer a full-day trip,” says Bill Leonard, “that’s the best way to experience the French Broad.” This river offers lush scenery, opportunities to swim and loaf, and a sandy beach for the Master’s style lunch, as well as the more challenging rapids. And if you really enjoy that challenge, keep an eye on High Mountain Expeditions. They have also guided trips on the rugged Nolichucky River, which would take the challenge up still another notch. The Nolichucky was affected by Hurricane Helene, and the clean-up is ongoing, but the river may be open for trips later this year. High Mountain also offers trips on the New River and the Watauga. Bill offers some timely encouragement. “The New River was affected by the hur-

ricane, but the cleanup has been very good; they not only took out debris left by the storm, they improved places with pre-existing problems.”

Day trips are great, but sometimes coming off the river is bittersweet. It’s the opposite of homesickness. “I want this to last, I’m not ready to go home.” You don’t have to. Zaloo’s will help you organize multi-day trips on the New River. There are a half-dozen places to camp along the river, including Zaloo’s own Outpost. The Outpost is very appealing, with six campsites and a structure with bathing facilities and drinkable water, a broad grassy riverbank, and wide, shallow water. With fish! It is possible to reserve the entire site for family gatherings and other large events. I envision taking my chair out in the shallows, setting myself up with a kabob and a beverage, and watching the sunset. Just an idea…

This last bit raises a very important point. If you want to camp, ask for help. If you have special requirements, ask for help. If you have an idea of something fun you’d like to do, just ask. Bill Leonard summed it up, “If you need or want something special, we’ll help you if we can, or we’ll point you to the right

person.” All these outfitters are family businesses, with family values. They are a community of smart, generous people who sincerely want you to have a good time. They’ve been doing it for decades, and they know things.

Rivers aren’t the only place to have adventure on the water. Sail Watauga can take you out on Lake Watauga. “Summer cruises on the lake are my favorite,” says Captain William Mauney. “It’s calm and relaxing, we only get a couple of months like this. It’s a great time to just drift and play in the water around the boat. My boat has a swim platform on the back, and a pass-thru to the cockpit, it’s easy to jump out and get back on board.” And the wind will pick up. You can sit back and let the Captain handle the boat, or you can take a turn at the helm. William offers some special cruises, including the Date Night/Engagement cruise. He is a professional photographer and so he invites you to “put down the phone” and let him capture the moment. And there’s the Fireworks cruise on the Fourth of July. Act fast!

Sometimes you don’t even need a boat. Yoga828 offers paddleboard yoga. “We have special paddleboards for yoga; they’re a little wider and more stable

than ordinary boards,” says owner Jenna Stone. She offers private lessons, group lessons, and a casual experience for wedding parties or anybody who has a group that would enjoy this kind of experience. Imagine a peaceful morning, right there on the water. “The acoustics are great, sometimes you can hear children’s voices from the other side of the lake.” And then, depending on your group, the Mother of the Bride gets wobbly and takes the plunge. “Yeah, people will fall in,” Jenna reveals. “The first person usually gets a round of applause.”

And finally, there is Price Lake Boat Rentals. No need to call, no need to plan, just drop in. Canoes and kayaks, and even paddleboards. A quiet hour paddling across a scenic lake—with a young fisherman, perhaps—on a lazy summer afternoon? Might be the best adventure of them all.

What Happens When Your Dreams Set Sail

WHERE ARE THEY NOW

Many of our Where Are They Now columns follow High Country natives in spirited pursuits to exotic destinations. The subject in our Summer issue, Logan Rowell, is definitely no stranger to daring, thrill-seeking avocations, but this story is about how chasing his dreams with a sense of adventure and freedom led him back home to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Back in 2004, CML Magazine covered Rowell and his high school buddy, Will Hagna, as they divested of all their worldly goods (i.e. skis, bicycles and vehicles) to purchase and fix up an old sailboat and set sail for the Caribbean during a gap year between high school and university. That emboldened adventure was full of errors, disasters, good times and enlightenment, and steered Logan toward his future career, his future wife, and ultimately back to his High Country family and home.

From UNC to NYC

After returning from his year at sea, Rowell attended UNC Chapel Hill during the tumultuous times of the real estate crash. There he joined the UNC Sailing Team, pursued a Business degree, and took off a couple of semesters to deliver yachts and earn his 100 Ton Masters Captain’s License. Because of the recession, jobs for new college graduates were slim, so he and his then girlfriend (now wife) Caroline took a job as Captain and Mate aboard a private yacht departing Newport, RI, bound for New Zealand. After a year navigating to and through the Panama Canal waiting for the weather window to cross the South Pacific, the yacht was directly struck by lightning, eliminating the possibility of crossing the Pacific that year. So, Logan and Caroline disembarked and headed toward their next enterprising undertaking.

What began as a summer escapade for the young couple— working with a sailing school in New York City—turned into a decade-long career. They ultimately purchased the sailing company, expanded the business and continued cruising to the Bahamas during the winters. Additionally, they became leaders and advocates for the younger sailing community, creating the Young Cruisers Association and connecting sailors globally through the establishment of events like the International Cruisers Awards. They remained in the Big Apple growing various marine businesses until their first son was born and then realized they wanted to escape the hectic city pace.

Homeward Bound

With the whole world before them, Caroline suggested Blowing Rock, the place she had fallen for while visiting the Rowell family. Logan was skeptical because as a thrill-seeking youth, he had grown bored with his hometown. However, with a new perspective as a father and international navigator, he followed his compass back to his port of embarkation. This is where his next great journey as an entrepreneur and family man set sail.

Once back in Blowing Rock, Rowell returned to some of his land-based pursuits, including cycling, and as a reformed adrenaline junkie, he was looking for ways to maximize his hobby. He joined an online community for cyclists through the Strava App, a GPS-based fitness app that lets active people set goals, track progress, stay connected, and challenge each other. While using the app, he was guided toward his next thrilling endeavor.

A marine adventurer passionate about sailing and connecting with other boaters, Rowell shared an idea with his wife and a few

other sailing enthusiasts, then started creating. They conducted beta testing and began improving on a concept for a platform to maximize positive time spent on the water and draw more people into the marine community. They focused on utilizing data and metrics to not only connect boaters, but to enhance their experiences through interactive log-books and engaging tools allowing users to learn from and communicate with other cruisers with real-time mapping and feedback.

Anchored by hard work, creative design, and a dynamic team of navigators, Logan and Caroline, along with three other highly skilled crew, founded the “SeaPeople” app.

Their partners include Jean-Michel Lemieux, the CTO who built Shopify and Atlassian, and Riley and Elayna of Sailing La Vaganbonde, the largest sailing YouTubers in the world. According to Rowell, “SeaPeople is for people who want to discover people, places, and routes near them (like AllTrails) and log their adventures to preserve every moment, mile, and memory (like Strava).” The app inspires boaters to learn through experiences from other peoples’ journeys using AI to take massive amounts of data and summarize it for the best outcomes for users.

On the Horizon

Since launching in October of 2024, the team has diligently worked through several iterations to create new features and design improvements to intensify the user experience within the app.

They recently closed their second round of investment, have been named Apple’s App of the Day, and have over 13 million miles logged in the app by users. SeaPeople already offers many

By Kim S. Davis

highlights, such as sharing live locations with people back home, uploading photos and videos along a routes trackline, following and connecting with other boaters, participating in challenges, and logging and tracking trips.

This summer, they will use data amassed by their users to launch a points-of-interest feature, providing in-depth information on anchorages, marinas, provisioning opportunities, destinations and activities. Soon to follow, their already robust mapping features will incorporate live weather layers showing realtime weather and 12- to 24-hour forecasts that boaters can use to identify calm anchorages, sandbar interests and conditions, and preferred routes; in real-time.

The Rowells feel very fortunate to be able to pursue their passion of being on the water from their home in the mountains. Working remotely allows the enterprising couple to raise their sons in the High Country, where Logan has come to realize is an amazing place to grow up. “We can enjoy the High Country’s beauty and work in whatever industry we want thanks to remote work culture. We can work with world-class people around the globe from a small office in Blowing Rock, walk across the street to pick the kids up from school, ski in the evenings, ride mountain bikes on the weekends, all while being close to family and true friends. What could be better?”

In sharing his long-term goal for SeaPeople, he says, “... it is a platform that completely moves an industry [boating].” Fittingly, it is Rowell’s adventurous spirit that allows this former “danger junkie” who grew up in the woods and on the slopes to return to his roots and achieve such first-rate goals.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW

GOLF GUIDE

Locally family owned business since 1990.

Authorized Club Car dealer. Sales, service, repair, pick up, delivery, custom builds. Quality products.

“We strive to treat each customer with respect. We look forward to working with each customer and their specific needs whether it be golfing, cruising the neighborhood, camping, businesses, mobility, or personal transportation.”

Mon-Fri, 8:30am - 5pm | Sat 8:30am - 2:00pm | Closed Sun. 6576 N NC Hwy 16, Conover, NC 28613 | (828) 855-1291 | www.golfcarsofhickory.com

A Traveler’s Guide to High Country Golf

Boone Golf Club—Boone, NC

Tom Adams, PGA

Architect Ellis Maples, Revision Rick Robbins

A mountain classic design by Ross protégé Ellis Maples. Opened 1959, the Boone Golf Club proved a primary driver to growth of summer tourism in the High Country.

828-264-8760 | www.boonegolfclub.com

Mountain Glen Golf Club—Newland, NC

Robert Nowak, PGA

Architect George Cobb Grass roots creation modeled after Boone GC success in 1965. A ‘play every day’ kind of mountain layout.

828-733-5804 | Mountainglengolfclub.com

Sugar Mountain Golf Club

Sugar Mountain, NC

Tom McAuliffe, Golf Director

Architect Frank Duane

Dynamite par 64. Fully restored post Helene. Everyman’s golf club in a land of giants. 828-898-6464 | www.seesugar.com

Mt. Mitchell Golf Club—Burnsville, NC

The High Country’s southernmost favorite devastated by Helene. Restoration schedule to be determined. Note website below for notifications.

Architect Fred Hawtree

828-675-5454 | www.mountmitchellgolf.com

Willow Valley—Boone, NC

Architect Tom Jackson

One of Jackson’s earlier creations, he’s now a member of the Carolinas Golf Hall-of-Fame. The Little Green Monster is an exceptional par three course. 828-963-6865

Mountain Aire Golf Club

West Jefferson, NC

Architect/Committee, Revisions Dennis Lehmann

Popular Ashe County stop, driving range, good course, good folks in the pro shop.

Philip Shepherd carrying bright torch in Hagel family tradition enters 14th season at the helm. 336-877-4716 | www.Mountainaire.com

Grassy Creek Golf Club—Spruce Pine, NC

Craig Sparks, PGA

Visit the Mitchell County mainstay and find out what all the locals love about Grassy Creek in Spruce Pine.

828-765-7436 | www.grassycreek.com

Resort Clubs with Lodging Access to Golf

Hound Ears Club—Blowing Rock, NC

Peter Rucker, PGA — App State alum begins 44th year at fabled club.

Architect George Cobb, Revisions Tom Jackson

A very special and playable golf course on the banks of the Watauga River. 828-963-4321 | www.houndears.com

Jefferson Landing Country Club & Resort—Jefferson, NC

Dan Stepnicka, PGA

Architect Larry Nelson/Dennis Lehmann

The High Country’s northernmost course open for play. Course access for members and onsite lodgers—great golf getaway for groups. Beautiful Ashe County classic. 1-800-292-6274 www.visitjeffersonlanding.com

Linville Land Harbor—Linville, NC

Donnie Davis, Golf Director

Architects Tom Jackson (A-9 Ernie Hayes)

Long-time private enclave between Linville and Pineola now with public access. 828-733-8325 | www.linvillelandharbor.com

Private Clubs/Members and Guests Only

Some clubs below may offer short-term rental membership privileges with club or member sponsorship.

Beech Mountain Club

Beech Mountain, NC

Taylor Schmeck, PGA

Architect Willard Byrd

Ridge Top layout with views of five states, including Kentucky, when the moon is full. Members only and accompanied guests. 828-387-4208 ext. 201 www.beechmtnclub.org

Grandfather Golf & Country Club

Linville, NC

Jonah Cox, PGA | Architect Ellis Maples

Extraordinary creation. 828-898-4388

Blowing Rock Country Club

Blowing Rock, NC

Andrew Glover, PGA

Architect Donald Ross, Seth Raynor

Revisions Tom Jackson and more recently by Ross specialist Kris Spence.

828-295-3171

Elk River Club—Banner Elk, NC

Dave Ambrose, PGA

Architect Jack Nicklaus/Bob Cupp

Lost season 2025 post Helene. Club turned tragedy into greatness. Beautiful rebuild. 828-898-9773

Linville Ridge Club—Linville, NC

Matt Benton, PGA

Architect George Cobb

Revisions Bobby Weed

“Eastern America’s Highest Golf Course” 828-742-4140

Diamond Creek—Banner Elk, NC

Alex Totusek, PGA

Architect Tom Fazio

Words cannot adequately do justice for the Fazio creation.

828-898-1800

Linville Golf Club—Linville, NC

Adam McLaughlin, PGA

Architect Donald Ross

Revisions Robert Trent Jones, Sr., Bobby Weed. 828-733-4311 | www.eseeola.com

From the Ashes:

By Tom McAuliffe

The Elk River story began in an airplane hangar in 1982, along the airstrip that still defines the private enclave outside Banner Elk. Harry and Spencer Robbins, along with brother Grover, had changed the High Country tourism industry forever by building the Tweetsie Railroad attraction in Blowing Rock, where they were born. Following a day when they could not get a tee time at the iconic Blowing Rock Country Club, Grover, the elder sibling, declared “we’ll build our own golf course.” That led to the creation of the region’s original ‘four-season’ resort along the Watauga River named Hound Ears in 1965. Success bred more development at Linville Land Harbor and the Beech Mountain Resort, now under the banner of the Carolina Caribbean Corporation, so named for what proved an ill-advised venture in the Virgin Islands that would ultimately contribute to the collapse of an otherwise dynamic enterprise.

Two consecutive warm winters, 20 percent interest rates, and the Arab oil embargo of 1973 proved the perfect storm and both Beech and Sugar Mountain resorts fell into receivership. But a decade later the surviving Robbins brothers, Harry and Spencer, who recovered the 2,100 acres that make the Elk River community, trotted out Jack Nicklaus in front of media and community leaders announcing the formation of the new entity. One hundred charter members, committing $40 thousand each, set the plan in motion, the Nicklaus group’s first signature design in the Carolinas.

Lenoir native Monty Melton would oversee the ‘grow in’ of the course and serve as greens superintendent after completing his employment at Augusta National before arriving on

Elk River Club Rises with the Tide

the scene in the spring of 1983. Little did anyone know that more than four decades later Melton would prove instrumental in the total rebuild necessitated by Hurricane Helene in the autumn of 2024.

It’s no small irony that the great flood of 1940 that wiped out the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC) would provide the narrow-gauge locomotives of Tweetsie Railroad fame elevating the Robbins brothers’ initial success. Elk River’s rebirth following Hurricane Helene’s destruction is testament to a community that would not give in, but would build back better.

“We had an awesome board of directors,” said Elk River Club Manager Toni Littleton. “They left our team alone to do what we had to do to restore and enhance Jack’s (Nicklaus) design in the spirit he intended.”

Melton, along with longtime crewmember Len Bauer and Chase Arrowhead were on the property in the pre-dawn hour before Helene unleashed nearly 25 inches of rain (following a steady downpour 48 hours earlier from an Ohio Valley disturbance) in five hours of indescribable terror.

“We knew limbs would be down, but as soon as I got to the maintenance building’s door, I saw the first tree fall,” Melton recalled. “We knew it was getting worse. Trees were falling every 15 seconds. We were waist deep in water. There was nothing we could do but tie down the equipment that was floating off. Len and Chase ventured out on foot and saw everything was destroyed. They spent the night in the men’s locker room.”

There was no leaving; the lone access out of Elk River was destroyed. The attention focused on the residents. “All roads

were blocked by fallen trees,” Melton said. “About 3 p.m. I got to the clubhouse, walking through the driving range in waistdeep water. We made a path down the 1st hole to the fifth fairway to get to the runway and get out. There was no power. The only way to Banner Elk was walking.”

It would take four days to evacuate the community.

But just two days after Helene, relief efforts began. Planes were landing with supplies at the Elk River airstrip. “Five or six planes at a time,” Melton recalled. “Bob Littleton, our POA director, and his crew met each plane with trucks, offloading generators, water and food, even C-rations. We were clearing two feet of mud in front of the hangar doors to sort out and store it all. It was amazing. Planes were coming all day, day after day. I don’t know where all the relief agencies came from, but volunteers were everywhere.”

Long known for its community support, the Elk River’s High Country Charitable Foundation, led by Jim Ward, had already made its mark, but a second group, Elk River Helping Hands, was established only a month before Helene’s arrival. The community that was devastated was poised to make the greatest impact in the region-wide relief effort.

Helping Hands would distribute $1.7 million in aid to their neighbors in Avery County.

All the while, attention turned to the signature Jack Nicklaus golf course that was the center of the Elk River community.

A team led by Chad Goetz of the Nicklaus design group, long a partner with the Elk River Club refining the classic Nicklaus layout, was on board with the restoration of the course virtually destroyed by Helene. Melton was joined

by Banner Elk native Brad Owens, himself an Augusta National superintendent recently retired. Jamie Jones stepped in as Elk River greens superintendent, after thirty years on the crew. New hire Jack Crenshaw, a former intern at Augusta and lead man at High Hampton before returning to Banner Elk, ensured a restoration of the Elk River Club that exceeds the original Nicklaus design.

Two years post Helene, Elk River Club stands stronger.

Col. Benjamin Cleveland lived in Wilkes County but often led his ranger company through the mountains. This monument is located in Cleveland County, Tennessee.

John Adams came from France to fight for American Independence and stayed, eventually settling in present-day Watauga County. He is buried at Mountlawn.

The High Country and the American Revolution

By Michael C. Hardy

Among the towering peaks of the High Country of western North Carolina, there runs an ancient road. For thousands of years, the tread of people has worn the road down into a discernible trace, sunken into the mountainside. The ancestors of the Catawba, Shawnee, Moneton, Yuchi, and others once used this path to trade with their neighbors, hunt, and, at times, make war. Spanish explorers in the seventeenth century probably used this path to travel from the foothills over the mountains.

When the French and Indian War ended and settlers began to push west, they found a well-worn path through the mountains, leading from the Catawba River to the Watauga River Valley. Samuel Bright saw a need for a guide, and in the 1770s, established a homestead on the North Toe River, with a secondary camp at the confluence of the North Toe River and Roaring Creek. His primary camp became known as the Bright Settlement. Bright guided travelers along the North Toe River, up Roaring Creek, through Yellow Mountain Gap, and into the Watauga River settlements. The old road became known as Bright’s Trace, or the old Yellow Mountain Road or Trail.

Bright’s Trace was not the only old road in the area. The Buffalo Trail passed through the mountains at Deep Gap, moving west through the Iron Mountains. Just south of Deep Gap is Cook’s Gap, sometimes called Boone’s Trace. This path led from the Yadkin River up the Blue Ridge escarpment into the mountains.

Each of these, and undoubtedly others, became vital routes during the American Revolution.

It is possible they were used by the Cherokee when they attacked foothill settlements in July 1776. While most of the fighting occurred along the Catawba River in present-day McDowell County, early twentieth-century historian John Preston Arthur recalled a local tradition regarding William White. Out hunting in the area, White witnessed the Cherokee capturing two men and trampling their bodies in a mud hole near Linville Falls. White quickly gathered his family, living about a mile away, and

William Landrine Eggers served in both the New York and North Carolina militias before moving to the High Country in the late 1790s. He is buried at Zionville Baptist Church.

sought refuge at Fort Crider in present-day Lenoir. Another local legend was that Patriot militia pursued a band of Cherokee to a “rock cliff” around Pisgah Church but retreated due to a disparity in numbers.

The road network in the High Country was frequently used by Patriot militia as they moved through the area. In June 1776, as the British attacked Charleston, a call went out for help and militia from the Watauga River Valley responded, heading down Bright’s Trace. Waightstill Avery, traveling toward Long Island of Holston for treaty negotiations in June 1777, came close to being captured on Bright’s Trace as he neared Yellow Mountain Gap. Patriot militia from the Watauga River area, now divided into Washington and Sullivan counties, traveled down Bright’s Trace to join portions of the Burke County militia in early 1780. They were headed to Charleston, which was captured in May.

With the capture of Savannah and Charleston, the British began to push toward the interior. Under the leadership of Lord Cornwallis, by June of 1780 the British had secured Camden, Augustus, and Ninety Six. Loyalists in Western North Carolina began forming companies, expecting to meet the British as they entered North Carolina. One group of Loyalists was defeated at the battle of Ramsour’s Mill in June.

Cornwallis dispatched the force of Major Patrick Ferguson to Ninety Six with the mission of recruiting Loyalists. Learning that Charles McDowell and his Patriot militia from Burke County were operating on the North Carolina-South Carolina border, Ferguson began pursuit. With a portion of the British at Thicketty Fort, McDowell asked some of the leaders across the mountains for support. Over 400 militiamen crossed the mountains, probably using Bright’s Trace, and captured the British garrison.

The Overmountain Militiamen returned home, and Ferguson began pursuing McDowell. The two forces tangled at Cowan’s Ford and Allen’s Mountain. With the British almost in the Toe River Valley, McDowell moved his militiamen over the mountains, leaving their families behind. McDowell and the

Old Yellow

Nathan Horton served in the New Jersey militia during the American Revolution, relocating to the High Country in the 1780s, and is buried at the old Three Forks Baptist Church Cemetery.

other militia commanders had already worked out a plan. They would combine their forces, sending word to other commanders in Virginia and in Wilkes and Surry counties, and pursue the British. As Ferguson moved south, McDowell crossed over the mountains. He was followed on September 25 by hundreds of militiamen under the command of John Sevier, William Campbell, and Isaac Shelby. In the foothills, they were joined by militia under the command of Benjamin Cleveland.

On October 7, 1780, the Overmountain Men found Ferguson and his force at Kings Mountain, just over the state line in South Carolina. In the ensuing battle, Ferguson was killed, and over 1,000 Loyalists were killed, wounded, or captured. Thomas Jefferson considered the battle of Kings Mountain the turning point of the American Revolution. A portion of the Patriot army escorted the prisoners to Salem, with the Overmountain Men returning to their homes. Militia from over the mountain traveled along Bright’s Trace a couple of other times, fighting at Guilford Court House, Ninety Six, and Moncks Corner.

Local action was not confined to the militia using Bright’s Trace. Ranger companies were formed that patrolled the backcountry, looking for new raids by the Cherokee, and loyalists and dissidents using the mountains to hide out. Benjamin Cleveland led one such company, moving frequently through the New River, Toe River, and across the mountains into the Watauga River Valley area.

On one of those scouts, Cleveland came across the fortified home of David Hix on the Watauga River. Hix was described as being neutral, not taking either side during the conflict. At one point, he offered shelter to a Tory named Grimes. Grimes had stolen fifty head of cattle and several horses from people on the Yadkin and was attempting to flee. Not long after leaving Hix’s, they were overtaken, and Grimes was killed near Hanging Rock. On another occasion, Hix entertained a group of refugees. Cleveland and his men were in pursuit and laid siege to Hix’s Fort. After a time, Cleveland withdrew. Thinking that Cleveland

Robert Sevier, the brother of John Sevier, the first governor of the state of Tennessee, was mortally wounded during the battle of Kings Mountain, and is buried in the Bright’s Cemetery in Avery County.

Located on US19E in the Green Valley community of Avery County, this marker commemorating the Old Yellow Mountain Trail was dedicated in 1979.

was gone, Hix and his family came out and were ambushed. Hix was wounded and captured, while his son-in-law, Mikel Asher, was killed. Hix was released and might have moved to the Banner Elk area, in a spot known as the Hix Settlement, and possibly traveled over the mountain for a time until returning to his Valle Crucis home.

Cleveland himself was ambushed and captured at one point by a Tory, Captain William Riddle. From the New River area, Riddle took Cleveland to Wolf’s Den, near what is now known as Riddle’s Knob. Word reached Cleveland’s brother Robert, who, with a party of around forty men, set off in pursuit. The next morning, Riddle’s camp was discovered, and the militia attacked, rescuing Cleveland. Riddle was later caught and hanged. Cleveland is rumored to have hanged several Tories during the war.

Following the end of hostilities, settlers began making their way into the High Country. Some settled, while others stayed but a short time before moving on. They settled in the valleys carved out by the rivers, using the existing roads until they carved out new roads in the wilderness.

Michael C. Hardy is the author of numerous books, articles, and blog posts on North Carolina history. His latest book, Western North Carolina & Eastern Tennessee in the American Revolution, was released by The History Press (Arcadia Publishing), this June. Order your copy at: arcadiapublishing.com, our local history museums, local book retailers, and online at Amazon and other digital bookstores.

The History of 257 Banner Road

By Carol Lowe Timblin

During the 1880s and 1890s, a small village was developing in the isolated Shawneehaw District of Watauga County, only accessible in those days by foot, horseback, and wagon. Home to a few families and a general store, the place would come to be known as “Banner Elk.” Meanwhile, visitors were discovering the charms of Blowing Rock and Linville, where tourism was beginning to take hold. The East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC) provided transportation from Johnson City to Elk Park and eventually to Cranberry, Linville, and Boone.

Building on his success as the co-owner of the Grandfather Hotel near Linville Gap, Shepherd Monroe Dugger sold his interest in that operation to build a small hotel on Banner Road in Banner Elk. Called “Shonnyhaw Cottage,” the twostory wooden structure featured a parlor, dining room, and kitchen downstairs and several bedrooms upstairs, with a central hallway in the middle and a front porch overlooking the town and the mountains. In his first edition of The Balsam Groves of the Grandfather Mountain, Dugger noted that “tourists were invited to spring beds and to tables heavily laden,” with entrees such as roasted mutton, fried or boiled swine’s ham, and speckled trout. He charged $1 a day, $6 a week, and $25 a

month. A well-known raconteur, Dugger entertained guests with his humor and stories about the mountains.

The hotel was also home to the Dugger family, which included his wife Margaret Callaway Dugger, and their two young sons, Balsam and Clarence. The life they had hoped for at the cottage was shortlived, however. Margaret died on December 26, 1891, after giving birth to their third son, Dugger’s namesake. The baby lived a few months but died on August 1, 1892.

Three years later, Dugger married Nettie Lowrance at the Banner Elk Hotel. The union lasted only a few months, and she made a final exit from Banner Elk. Eventually, Dugger sold the cottage and built a small log cabin overlooking the town, where he concentrated on bringing up his two sons.

Shonnyhaw Cottage proved to be the perfect fit for John Henry VonCanon and his wife Carrie Bowen VonCanon, who moved into the house around 1912. He opened the first successful Ford dealership and served as the first sheriff of Avery County, formed in 1911. Carrie cared for their two young children, Charles and Carolyn, rented rooms, and ran an evergreen business from their home.

“My grandmother had one of the largest companies of its kind in the country,”

recalls Charlie B. VonCanon of Banner Elk. “She bought galax and ferns from local people and stored them in the basement of the house, cooled by blocks of ice delivered by Babe Ray of Elk Park. Carefully packed into boxes, the evergreens were hauled by truck to Johnson City and then shipped by train to florists all over the country.”

Encouraged by their mother, the VonCanon children took piano lessons and became accomplished musicians. Charles played at the Presbyterian Church every Sunday and Carolyn later became the music teacher at Banner Elk School.

“My father had a dog named ‘Lindy’ that usually sat beside him when he played at church,” notes Charlie B. “When my father missed church one Sunday, the dog took his usual place by the piano, sat there for a while, and then went back home.”

Carolyn inherited the homeplace when her mother died in 1938, according to Charlie B. After marrying Bill Brinkley in 1940, she moved to Elk Park, where he operated the family hardware store. During World War II, when lumber was in short supply, Brinkley tore off rooms on the back part of the house in Banner Elk and sold the wood at the hardware store.

“My parents, Charles and Aileen VonCanon, who were living in Florida at that time, decided to purchase the house from Carolyn to save it from demolition,” states

Charlie B. “We moved back to Banner Elk for a while and then we moved to Oak Ridge, TN, where my father worked on the atom bomb. After the war, we came back to Banner Elk, so that my brother William and I could attend high school.”

After selling the house to a doctor, the VonCanons built a new home overlooking Shawneehaw Creek. As the mayor of Banner Elk for several consecutive terms, Charles was a big promoter of the Woolly Worm Festival and often gave the official winter forecast.

Dr. C.L. Woodbridge purchased the house in 1957 and lived there with his wife and daughter until 1961. The son of missionaries, he had served as a missionary to China and then returned home to pursue mission work stateside. The family’s pet skunk, “Roger,” would often stroll among the flowers in the yard.

Grace Hospital owned the house during the 1960s. Bud Hahn bought the house in 1969 and sold it in 2007. During that time, he maintained the house and rented rooms to students, teachers, nurses, and couples. Newlyweds Buster and Jackie Burleson lived in the house during the early 1970s while they were building a new home.

“The house was a good rental property that didn’t require much upkeep,” Hahn recalls.

Gail Draughon, who had lived in the house with her parents, purchased the house in 2007 and sold it in 2025. A beloved teacher at Banner Elk School, she was known for her love of flowers and the color “blue,” which she used inside and outside the house.

With the recent purchase of the house by Angel VonCanon Adams and her husband Matt, the historical property is beginning a new chapter. The Adamses, who own a construction company and cattle farm in Virginia, plan to hire an architect, add rooms on the back of the house to accommodate their large family when they visit, and restore it to the way it looked when her great grandparents owned it.

“We are going to restore the house in stages,” says Matt. “The first thing we are going to do is replace the windows.”

“We are so excited about owning this historical house in Banner Elk, where I spent so much time in my childhood,” adds Angel. “We look forward to making memories with our children and grandchildren here for years to come. Banner Elk will always be home to me.”

A Name Game

By Gail Greco

WHAT DO TENNIS, SALMON, AND MOUNTAIN GROUNDS COFFEE HAVE IN COMMON?

“… and your name, please?”

From finalizing documents to making restaurant reservations, this question can sometimes elicit a pause: “Whaaat? Formica as in the countertops? Really?” Formica is an unusual surname, more curious since Nick (his first name) is by trade a countertop installer (he did my winter home).

Birth names that coincidentally reflect professions, businesses, or myriad personal aspects are actually a ‘thing’ called an aptronym. We have our share in the High Country, welcoming them with a twinkle in the eye, a touch of humor, and a suppleness of heart.

“Names can be catchy, cultural, and a source of pride, offering us a feeling of belonging and empowerment,” notes area mental health therapist Dwane Wynne, his own name a tongue-twister and last name “usually mispronounced as wine when it’s win,” he quips.

So, That’s ‘What’s in a Name’!

During the iconic balcony scene, Juliet asks rhetorically, “What’s in a name,” espousing her love of Romeo for who he is, not for his name—Montague, her family’s rival clan. “That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet,” she pontificates. Although a riff on Juliet’s adage, roses at King Street Flowers and Gifts’ unique create-ityourself posies bar are indeed equally fragrant no matter their botanical names.

The full-service Boone florist is owned by Fuschia Moss; yes, after the flower (with the

common misspelling) and Moss, her married name like the shop’s fuzzy greenery for making your own terrarium. Woods was her maiden name until marrying Lees-McRae College board member Gary T. Moss, Jr., so she jests, “Moss grew out of the Woods.” She didn’t choose floristry because of her name. When someone purposely makes that choice, it’s called nominative determinism. “But for me, it was just in the stars,” she winks.

Heavenly, too, defines Suzette Faith Foster’s given name, a reflection of her own faith and transformative work as a spiritual-wellness coach. In her popular Choose 2 Thrive Boone practice, she seeks to “foster emotional and physical healing,” she says. Immersive therapeutic sound meditation sessions include: rhythmic drumming, melodic tinkling bells, singing bowls. “My passion is helping participants relinquish—from within—the root causes of life’s challenges.”

Aptronyms can also embody a person’s sentiments. Judith Phoenix says she kept her married name for heartfelt reasons; and turns out, heartfelt is how she’s known and beloved all around this town. Spreading volunteer arms as a Phoenix with benevolent wings, she gives her time to a dozen local organizations.

Tasteful Names

First day of class, Dr. Michael Hambourger, Associate Professor of Chemistry at Appalachian State University, wittily instructs students, “Say my name however you like (pronounce the o or not),” as he draws a juicy hamburger on the blackboard—

“stuffed with goat cheese of course,” he grins. (Hambourger’s also a farmer at his Heritage Homestead Goat Dairy in Todd, NC.)

Music professor Dr. Andrea Cheeseman (formerly ASU) might stuff a different fromage in her colleague’s hamburger, while Eleanor Cook might add veggies. A culinary connoisseur, Cook creates meals based on what’s in season, but quickly foils any notions: “I’m not a chef. I just love cooking.”

Rachael Salmon has a sea-foodie last name, but perhaps hers is the one that got away. Fish swimming upstream are not what the well-known High Country nature photographer lures to her lens, despite her name. She shares sketchy origins of her surname: “I grew up in Vancouver, BC, where we were surrounded by salmon fisheries.”

“Double-take” names help businesses market at-a-glance. Mountain Grounds Coffee & Tea’s name is not only clever but classy: fresh-ground coffee, foot of Grandfather Mountain (Tynecastle-Banner Elk). “We’re grounded in coffee and community,” they commit. Says it all, while tempting us to visit!

Talking coffee, the longtime local Coffey family embraces the java pun their name inspires. Coffey Grounds is the name they gave their private ancestral home and farm in Boone, playing off coffee bean grinds. (Leaning into this name-game fun, I think of University of Pennsylvania behavioral economics professor Katy Milkman, whose name brings to mind the cream in my cup of coffee!)

Continued

The nonprofit F.A.R.M. Cafe had Formica counters when it took over the King Street Boone Drug space in 2012. The paywhat-you-can restaurant’s name, Feed All Regardless of Means, was conceived by board member Tracey Thompson (a Merchandise Buyer at Mast General Store for 37 years). “Tracey created a brilliant, fitting name,” reflects cafe founder Renee Boughman. In light of the cafe’s mission to include local farm ingredients, she fiddled on a napkin, stacking letters F A R M, and then “the words just fell into place,” Thompson reminisces.

Names can get a bit nutty, too, as Carol Almond will tell you: “As kids we had fun laughing how our home’s a nut house.” Almonds symbolize watchfulness and endurance, aptly defining her career as a women’s

basketball star and coach, honored (2025) by App State naming a campus athletic office

The Carol Almond Women’s Basketball Suite. Almond now coaches tennis at Deer Valley Athletic Club in Boone—an opportunity for Joe Tennis to take a lesson from Almond since he doesn’t play the game!

Tennis’ racket is writing. In addition to being a CML contributor (see his story on the Virginia Creeper Trail in this issue), he penned a longtime column for the Bristol Herald (VA) Courier newspaper called Tennis Anyone? (a what’s happening column, not about tennis). He’s also the author of The Ghostly Tales of Haunted Coastal Virginia Tennis enjoys his name-game. A kindergarten teacher suggested wearing “tennis shoes, not oxfords” to class. He quickly served her a

match point: “All my shoes are Tennis shoes.”

Speaking of writers, my father wanted me named Lois after Lois Lane, The Daily Planet reporter from Superman. He lost the namethe-baby game but was onto something. I did pursue a journalism career, which Wynne explains can be when a name chooses its bearer before destiny unfolds. Hmm!

Perhaps that’s how it happened for the owner of Unwound Yarn, a shop for knitters in West Jefferson. Amazingly, Morgan Purl shares her real name with purl, a fundamental stitch in knitting. Buying into Unwound dropped in her lap opportunistically like a warm woven throw. “Never planned on a knitting career,” casts Mo (her nickname), spinning an old yarn about how names are unquestionably to be or not to be!

A Legacy of Excellence

Dianne Davant & Associates Interior Design

By Steve York

Thename Dianne Davant & Associates

Interior Design is synonymous with the words “Exquisite,” “Enduring,” and above all, “Excellence.” And that’s been the case since day one.

“Day one” was 1979. The place was picturesque Blowing Rock, North Carolina. “I was born and raised in Blowing Rock. However, I went to several different colleges and universities pursuing different majors,” noted Davant. “I received most of my interior design training at Salem College in Winston-Salem and then finished my degree at App State. I opened my design business the same year I graduated from App State.”

After 47 years, and relocating to Banner Elk, Dianne Davant & Associates has become a widely respected household name. As Founder and Senior Designer, Davant, ASID, has grown her firm to serve clients across the U.S. and as far south as the Bahamas. And she has earned a reputation that is second to none for bringing exquisite taste, charm and luxury living to interior design.

That sterling reputation has seen the building of an exceptional design team— referred to by many clients as “the Davant Dream Team.” Her associates include her three Partners & Senior Designers: Margaret Handley, ASID, Pamela McKay, ASID, and Priscilla Hyatt Councill, ASID. “Margaret Handley had been with me for 30 years and Pam McKay for 25 years,” noted Davant. “Both enjoy working on all types of design projects.”

“Dianne has been an amazing mentor, and I am fortunate to have worked with

so many wonderful clients whose projects have challenged and stretched my creativity,” said Handley. “I am also grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to collaborate with a community of incredibly talented craftspeople who have helped bring my crazy ideas into reality.”

Adding to that sentiment, McKay said, “As designers in our mountain region, we are incredibly privileged to work on such a diverse range of homes. Because we are challenged to create unique luxury mountain retreats every day—each is tailored to a completely different personality.”

Technically a Florida resident these days, Davant noted, “I am a mountain girl at heart! However, because I’ve developed such close relationships with many High Country clients, they’d asked me to design their primary homes often in Florida. Plus, I met a Tampa fellow, Lee Moffitt, who had a summer home in Blowing Rock and we married 24 years ago. He is still very active with his namesake, the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa.

“My Stuart, Florida, office is run by my Partner, Priscilla Hyatt Councill,” continued Davant. “Priscilla grew up in Boone and began working for me many years ago in the mountains. But she has Florida roots so it was appealing to her to make the move.”

Councill said, “Working with this firm for the past 18 years, beginning right out of school, has been one of the greatest blessings of my life and career. Learning under Dianne, and alongside Partners Pam and Margaret, has shaped both the designer and the person I have become.”

“My Partners have built their own following and will continue to help run the company for many years to come, and long after I am gone,” said Davant. “Not only do I have strong Partners, my support staff is amazing! I have a great team of inventory handlers and movers as well as an incredible financial staff. We are truly like a big family and respect the roles of each other and what they contribute to our ongoing success!”

Whether very traditional or more mountain-modern, Davant loves to incorporate furniture that has been locally crafted, as well as work with local artists. “We have so many incredibly talented local artisans and we love to support them. And, depending on the project, we also outsource design elements from all over the world,” she added.

Throughout nearly five decades, Dianne Davant & Associates Interior Design has defined the word “excellence” by creating exceptional interior spaces for both residential and commercial clients…including country clubs, corporate jets and even luxury yachts. As such, the firm has received a bounty of prestigious awards. You’ll find a list of awards plus many of their design projects and products at davant-interiors. com. Their N.C. Studio is located at 5111 Highway 105 South in Banner Elk, with a brand new “Designers Choice Showroom” located at Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk (in the former Glove Factory building).

Watauga County Public Library: America 250 Events on June 27

Celebrate America 250 at the Watauga County Public Library in downtown Boone with a full day of fun family events. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the library will offer weaving and quilting activities, an archaeology dig, corn-husk dollmaking, live patriotic music, scavenger hunts and more! A line-up of guest speakers will discuss topics related to the community’s history and culture, and refreshments will be served. 140 Queen Street, Boone, NC

Hospitality House Wins Two Awards

Hospitality House of Northwest N.C. was recently awarded the Farm Fresh Nourish Shared Purpose Award by Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest N.C. for being part of their Farm Fresh Nourish program since its inception. Launched in 2020, Farm Fresh Nourish pairs local farmers with Second Harvest partner pantries to distribute produce shares to pantry patrons who have or live with someone who has certain health issues that may be addressed in part by good nutrition.

The award noted, “Through your dedication to connecting fresh, local food with neighbors across our region, you have helped cultivate more than just harvests—you have nourished dignity, strengthened well-being, and grown shared hope.” In addition to this award, the Hospitality House Food Pantry achieved the Gold Nourishing Pantry Award. The Food Pantry, located at their Brook Hollow Complex in Boone, is the only area pantry open seven days a week. Households from any area county who qualify for low-income assistance are eligible. www.HospHouse.org

Mast General Store Celebrates Land Trust Day

The first Saturday of June each year is Land Trust Day. On this day, businesses and land trusts across North Carolina come together to celebrate conservation and acknowledge the important role that protected lands and the outdoors play in our communities. For more than a decade, Mast General Store locations across the region have donated 20% of all sales on Land Trust Day to help our local Land Trusts, non-profit organizations that preserve the health and heritage of our natural spaces. Blue Ridge Conservancy, New River Conservancy, and Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy are just a few of the Land Trusts who have benefited from Mast Store’s generosity. mastgeneralstore.com

Fun at Lees-McRae Fan Fest

On Saturday, August 22, 2-4 p.m., join fellow fans for the Lees-McRae Fan Fest on Tate Field! This free, family-friendly

event is the perfect way to kick off the new school year and celebrate Bobcat spirit in green and gold. Meet and greet all of the Lees-McRae athletic teams while enjoying bounce houses, face painting, games, food trucks, and more. Fan Fest is all about welcoming the community together for an afternoon of fun, school pride, and excitement for the year ahead. Go Bobcats! lmcbobcats.com

Florence Thomas Art School’s “Friendraiser”

Join the fun at the Florence Thomas Art School Friendraiser on Saturday, August 29, from 3–7 p.m. at Old Orchard Creek Blueberry Farm in Lansing, NC. Enjoy live music, dancing, food, and drinks while supporting their 501(c)(3) nonprofit art school. Proceeds will fund vital programming and provide scholarships for Ashe County high school students pursuing the arts. Be part of investing in the next generation of artists! Purchase your tickets at florenceartschool. org/2026ftasfundraiser.

Ninth Annual Denim Ball

Dress in denim and join the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation for a memorable evening of live music, dancing, dinner and fun with friends. This year’s event on September 3 will be held at Camp Yonahnoka at Linville Golf Club, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Grandfather Mountain. A silent and live auction help raise funds for repairs and improvements at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park at milepost 294 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beginning in 1897, Moses and Bertha Cone carefully created an impressive country estate featuring carriage trails, lakes, orchards, fields, and forests that they shared with the public. The estate became part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in 1949. brfoundation.org

40 Years for Sunset Tees & Hattery

“BE Blooms”—The Joy of Gardening in Banner Elk

Jack and Becky Hall opened this downtown Blowing Rock business back in 1986, and since then, it has become a central fixture in town. Like the name implies, the shop is known for its huge selection of fun t-shirts and hats—in fact, there are over 1,000 hats at any given time in dozens of styles. The staff is always happy to help you find the perfect fit. In addition, you’ll find over 100 locally made jellies, jams, butters and sweets. Stop by to congratulate them, buy a commemorative t-shirt and try an ice cream sample. 1117 Main St, Blowing Rock, NC

New Exhibit at the Damascus Trail Center Damascus, VA, also known as “Trail Town USA,” is home to the popular Damascus Trail Center. This summer, the Center presents a new exhibit, “Chain Reaction: How Bikes Led to a Trail-Town Revolution,” on display now through September. This special exhibit celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary, the ever-growing popularity of cycling, and the town of Damascus. Learn about the Iron Mountain Trail, Virginia Creeper Trail, TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, and more. The Center is open daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and admission is free. 209 West Laurel Ave. Damascus, VA

A group of green-thumbed volunteers is busy beautifying Tate-Evans town park and other flower containers/beds around downtown Banner Elk. The volunteers, known as BE Blooms, consider themselves “Friends of the Park—volunteers who love to garden, working to enhance the beauty of our Town. If you love Banner Elk’s town park, come join us.” Find out more on their FB page; donations can be made out to Friends of the Park and dropped off at Town Hall. facebook.com/p/ BEBlooms-61566286107163/

“The Collective” Records Demo in Nashville Dave Calvert’s The Collective Trio has scored a recording session in “Music City USA,” Nashville, TN. As owner of Carolina Barbeque in Newland, NC, Calvert’s 5-piece band, The Collective (Dave & Jen Calvert, Tim Rhodes, John Campbell, and Jason Birch), is a High Country Variety Cover Band performing hit R&B, Country Rock and Pop Rock songs from the ‘60s through today.

My Best Friend’s Barkery “Pack Walk”

Banner House Oral History Project Continues

The Banner House Museum continues its participation in an area-wide oral history project to collect stories surrounding Tropical Storm Helene, as well as stories on the general history of Banner Elk and surrounding Avery County. Working in collaboration with Appalachian State University Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center, Avery County Historical Society, and the Beech Mountain Museum, folks can share their Helene and other historical experiences at a special recording station set up at the museum. Also at the museum this summer is an exhibit highlighting Banner Elk as part of America250. Learn more at bannerhousemuseum.org

This past April, The Collective Trio (the Calverts and Tim Rhodes) recorded several songs at Michael Rhodes’ (Tim’s son) studio in Nashville and, as Calvert noted, “We killed it!” Of special interest to Rhodes was an original song Calvert wrote 40 years ago called “Matter of Time.” According to a fan, “everyone who’s heard it thinks it has strong hit potential; especially should a big name decide to record it.” Bookings and music at collectivesmusic.com -contributed by Steve York

Each month, My Best Friend’s Barkery in Banner Elk offers dog owners an opportunity to congregate and take a “pack walk” with their neighbors and furry friends. These walks are relaxed, community walks where dogs and people can move together, practice good habits, and enjoy some time outside. Bring your pup to the Barkery’s parking lot at 5 p.m. on the designated date—monthly dates are posted at mybestfriendsbarkery.com under “Events.” 176 Shawneehaw Ave, Banner Elk, NC Continued...

Efficiency Tips from Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge Energy, this year celebrating 90 years in business, invites the community to “Beat the Peak” this summer. They note, “A heatwave is here and you can help us hold down power costs by turning your thermostat up to the highest comfortable setting and delaying large appliance usage from 2-7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.” They also remind us of these energy-saving tips: wash clothes and dishes during the morning or late evening hours; turn off lights you aren’t using; replace your air filters regularly (about every two months); bake with glass or ceramic pans; and uplug devices, such as phone chargers and tablets when not in use. If you have an outdoor AC unit, be sure to clean off the debris, dirt and pollen and keep the perimeter free of long grasses and weeds. You’ll find more money-saving tips at BlueRidgeEnergy.com

Summer Swimming Safety

Summer swimming season is here, and with it comes this reminder from the Boone Fire Department: drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional death in the U.S. claiming an average of 10 lives every day.

According to the Dept., drowning takes only a few seconds. “Everyone should learn to swim and achieve a level of water competency that allows them to enter the water, submerge their heads, resurface, take a breath, stay afloat, change position in the water, swim a short distance, and get back out of the water.” They add that during a water emergency, you should know how to call for emergency help, how to help someone in trouble in the water safely, and how to perform CPR. You’ll find more water safety tips at: www.redcross.org

Lees-McRae College Secures Historic Gift

Lees-McRae is the recent recipient of the largest gift in college history—a $10 million commitment from Charlotte philanthropists Howard “Smoky” and Margaret Bissell—in support of a new housing community. Their donation will support the construction of “Bobcat Way” townhouses, residential facilities that will serve both college students and employees. Construction on the project is set to begin this summer and is expected to be completed for the Fall 2027 semester. www.lmc.edu

Kool Nights and Hot Rods Cruise the “Coolest Corner” of North Carolina! Join fellow auto enthusiasts in downtown West Jefferson for a nostalgic cruise-in with vintage rides. Summer events take place on Saturday, July 18, 5-8 p.m., Saturday, August 15, 5- 8 p.m., and Sunday, September 20, 1-4 p.m. Visit the Ashe Chamber of Commerce web page at ashechamber.com for more information.

Freedom Life Ministries Transitional Housing

Access to transitional and entry housing is a vital piece of building stronger, healthier communities. Freedom Life Ministries, a non-profit that supports people before, during, and after incarceration through direct services, community partnership, and systems-level work that create lasting change, recently broke ground on their new Avery County entry housing project.

According to partner LiveWell Avery, “This important development will provide a safe, supportive starting point for individuals and families working toward stability, independence, and a brighter future right here in our community. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with Freedom Life and look forward to the lasting impact this investment will make in Avery County.” Learn more at livewellavery. org and freedomlifeavery.org

CML Celebrates the Tonys

On June 7, BARTER THEATRE in Abingdon, VA, shared the special 2026 Tony Award presented to the League of Resident Theatres (LORT), of which they were a founding member over 60 years ago. LORT is the largest professional theatre association of its kind in the U.S., boldly giving new shows life, resources, and time, while trusting in their artistic potential. Barter last won in 1948 when it was the first recipient of the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre.

Western NC’s own Mike Morris won his first Tony for Best Orchestrations for his work on the 2026 Best Musical “Schmigadoon!” Other Tar Heel winners include UNC School of the Arts grad Joe Mantello for Best Direction of a Play for “Death of a Salesman,” Qween Jean for Best Costume Design of a Musical for “Cats: The Jellicle Ball,” and Mikaal Sulaiman for Outstanding Sound Design, also for his work on “Salesman.” Jean and Sulaiman are veterans of Playmakers Repertory Company in Chapel Hill, NC’s only LORT member and co-recipient with Barter of the special Tony Award. Most recently, Mikaal created the sound design for “Immediate Family” at Charlotte’s Blumenthal Performing Arts Center in fall 2025. -contributed by Keith Martin

Community & Local Business News

....read all about it!

Compiled by Steve York

WXVV-LP 105.5 FM…A New Radio Voice for Banner Elk & Avery County

Listen up, Avery! You now have your own listener-supported community radio station right here in the middle of your backyard! The Blue Ridge Advocacy Center, a North Carolina 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Banner Elk, was recently granted a Low Power FM (LPFM) broadcast license by the FCC to operate a community radio station. The new WXVV-LP 105.5 FM radio station took to the airwaves earlier this season, and is rich with locally-based programming that reflects the culture, community happenings, creativity and aspirations of our High Country lifestyle. And its strategic studio location in the Historic Banner Elk School building speaks directly to its commitment to reflect “your voice,” what’s important to you, and to your diverse Banner Elk and Avery County neighbors.

Tom McMurray, WXVV-LP 105.5 FM station manager and Board President of Blue Ridge Advocacy Center said, “This is an exciting milestone for our organization and for the community.” McMurray, who spent 20 years at ABC Television in New York City and won two Emmys for tape editing added, “WXVV-LP provides a vital platform for local voices, community news, public affairs programming, educational content, and diverse music that reflects the character and culture of Avery County. We are committed to making this station a true community resource.”

In addition to its 105.5 FM broadcast signal, WXVV-LP will also stream live online at www.wxvv.org. Their online streaming allows for expanded access to listeners both locally and beyond, especially for second homeowners and visitors. The station operates exclusively with volunteers, both in front of and

“behind the mike.” As such, this creates multiple opportunities for local volunteers and content creators to contribute to the station’s programming.

Since WXVV-LP is a non-profit operation, the station is not allowed to broadcast commercials. However, in the same way that PBS and NPR are listener-supported, they are able to accept grants and funding from individuals and organizations to underwrite programming and day to day operations.

The station’s 2026 launch represents WXVV-LP’s commitment to strengthening communication, civic participation, and community connection throughout Banner Elk and the High Country. For more information about programming, volunteer opportunities and underwriting support, visit wxvv.org.

Mists of Avery…a Musical Portrait of Everything Avery County

Mists Of Avery is the artist’s name for special compositions of music by its creator, Mitch Hunter, who lives with his wife, Kim, in Concord, North Carolina. Music has been a vital part of Hunter’s life since learning piano at age 7, followed by his first piano piece entitled “Destiny” at age 12, and attaining first chair trombone in his High School band.

With a bachelor’s degree in music from Furman University and a master’s degree in music from University of Tennessee, Hunter has spent most of his life in church music, plus playing guitar, keyboards and vocals in various cover bands.

Mists of Avery features the folk instruments and drones of Celtic music, but also

incorporates influences of jazz and popular music. Many compositions invoke the flavors, personalities, and names of Avery County communities such as Elk Park, Crossnore, and Newland.

Hunter’s debut album is entitled SUITE: ANNUS EXPECTANDUS, which is Latin for “year of waiting.” It is a refreshing stroll through the seasons of the year using reflective music and, in some cases, the sounds of nature.

“Prelude: Tempora Mutantur” features Celtic-influenced melodies and instrumentation including mandolin, drone guitar, and percussion depicting the inspiring grandeur of the mountains.

“Welcome Spring” employs a four-note chord provided by a set of backyard windchimes, adding and removing musical layers based on those four notes.

“Cloudburst in Elk Park” and “Full Bloom: Crossnore” use natural sounds of a thunderstorm and bird songs as a canvas upon which the songs are painted.

“Sultry August Night” features the counter-rhythmic ostinato of Appalachian cicadas and tree frogs to underpin a lush callback to jazz combos of the late ‘50s and early ‘60s.

“Fall Arrives/ Fall Leaves” offers the sounds of wind rustling though falling leaves to remind the listener of the beauty and melancholy of the trees’ last burst of glory for the year.

“Christmas in Newland / Icy Branches” is nostalgic and childlike, inviting listeners to recall that “best snowfall ever” when they were a child, with all its wonder, delight, and joy. The journey concludes with a walk through an ice-glazed forest, finishing with the subtle windchimes’ reminder that the cycle will soon begin anew. Details at mistsofavery.com and listen on YouTube.

Continued on next page

Community & Local Business News

Granting Wishes in Western NC

High in the folds of Western North Carolina—where winding roads cling to ridgelines and cool mountain air carries the scent of moss and rhododendron—hope has always learned how to endure. In these mountains, where neighbors show up for one another and resilience is woven into daily life, MakeAWish® Central & Western North Carolina continues a legacy rooted in compassion, courage, and the belief that joy matters, even in life’s hardest moments.

That belief began in 1980 with a single child. Seven-yea-rold Chris Greicius, bravely battling leukemia, dreamed of becoming a police officer. When his wish was fulfilled, something extraordinary happened: one act of love ignited a movement and MakeAWish was born. Today, the organization has granted more than 650,000 wishes worldwide—each offering children with critical illnesses something deeply powerful: a reminder that they are more than a diagnosis and that hope can still take flight. Since opening in 1985, the Central & Western North Carolina chapter has carried that mission home, delivering more than 6,000 lifechanging wishes to children and families across 51 counties.

In 2025 alone, the chapter granted 398 wishes. Behind each number is a child experiencing moments of wonder, a family given space to breathe, and hope renewed during times of profound uncertainty. These moments illuminate a shared vision: ensuring every eligible child receives a wish and no family faces their journey without hope.

Leading this work across the 18 westernmost counties is Market Director Hunter Varipapa, whose connection to both the

mountains and the mission runs deep. Shaped by life with alopecia, Hunter learned resilience, empathy, and courage early on. Those experiences formed the heart of her life’s work—ensuring no child feels unseen or alone in their fight.

Her career spans early childhood education, inclusion advocacy, and community driven initiatives rooted in dignity and belonging. Since stepping into her role in late 2025, Hunter has launched grassroots efforts such as Fish for a Wish, Homes for Hope, and Insure a Wish, each reflecting the region’s generous, handson spirit.

Those who feel called to help carry this hope forward—through donations, volunteering, or referring a child for a wish—are invited to connect with Hunter Varipapa at hvaripapa@nc.wish.org today to help transform lives in Western North Carolina. Photo: Hunter Varipapa with friend

Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster: Your All-in-One Adventureland

Time of your life…and then some! You could easily spend the better part of a day at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster and not run out of fun things to do.

As Banner Elk has evolved into a one-stop destination for mountain attractions, dining venues, live music and entertainment, and everything High Country culture, Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster continues to attract an increasing following of “adventurers” seeking exciting thrills and peak experiences. As their website proclaims, “Adventure Awaits at the Most Fun-Filled Attractions in the High Country!”

Owners Tara and Eric Bechard and family opened the first coaster run of its kind in North Carolina back in 2020 and have enjoyed growing success ever since. Their dramatic

3,160-foot coaster run features all-new carts and computerized safety technology. The course lifts riders up a 45-degree climb to the summit of the track, then delivers an adrenalin-spiked 540-degree turn followed by seven more sharp turns, three wave dips, and then two more 360-degree turns at peak speeds of 27-mph before reaching the end of the track. And all of this excitement is safely designed for riders of all ages, from 3-year-old kids to teens, adults and grandparents. They may have even set a record hosting a 100-year-old World War II bomber pilot.

Since opening, they’ve added a threetiered, self-guided, 28-element obstacle Adventure Course, complete with climbing ropes, safety harnesses and assistant helpers. There’s also a children’s course and a gem mine next door. In addition, there’s the High Country Pie Shop featuring a variety of madefrom-scratch and heat-sealed, hot-pockettype gourmet hand-held meat, breakfast, veggie and desert pies, plus salads, chips, non-alcoholic beverages and bottled water. Add to that a coffee shop with ice cream, iced drinks, hi-top tables and chairs, plus a garden spot with a fire pit between the coasters and main building.

Now you see why you could spend a whole day and then some at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. Advance coaster reservations are required. So, be sure to make your checkin time reservation online to ensure parking and your place in the coaster line. Friendly phone service is always available. Full details at wildernessrunalpinecoaster.com

Brinkley’s Hardware:

New Owners and a Woman’s Touch at an Historic Retail Attraction

A 123-year hardware store legacy has

passed to a new generation and its first female owner. As of January 1 of this year, Taylor Lunsford and husband Blake have become the new faces of an old friend, Brinkley’s Hardware in Elk Park, North Carolina. This came after long-time, third-generation owner Steve Brinkley eventually accepted Lunsford’s friendly offers.

Lunsford fell in love with the place as a kid while spending summers with her grandparents who had a home in Elk Park. Brinkley’s was then, and has always been, a wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling EVERYTHING store. Simply stated, Brinkley’s is a true historic attraction. And, aside from computerized systems and updated inventory, Lunsford promises Brinkley’s will continue that heritage.

“We want to have the look, feel and variety of what you would expect from a 123-year-old hardware store,” Lunsford noted. “The creaky floors, nails by the pound, old tools on the wall, etc. We also want to have the modern selection worked seamlessly into our wooden fixtures that keep us relevant in the 21st century. We want to preserve and honor the past while ensuring we are relevant enough to survive in today’s market. We love this store and all it represents. And we want to celebrate and embrace all that it has to offer.”

Following in the footsteps of her father’s hardware experience, Lunsford is no newcomer to the trade. She was with Ace Hardware for roughly 20 years, wearing many different hats from running a cash register, to various leadership roles, to being a buyer for 16 locations.

While husband Blake, her parents, and her in-laws take an active role, the store continues to operate with its familiar Brinkley’s staff. “Our employees are truly the backbone of this store. Their knowledge and ability to problem-solve gives us a big advantage over the big box stores. They have been a fixture here in the community for years, and there is rarely a customer that they can’t greet by name. Again, this is part of the intangible magic that has made Brinkley’s Hardware such a special place,” Lunsford concluded. Details at brinkleyshardware.com. Photo: Blake and Taylor Lunsford

....read all about it!

Mountain Community Bank: Fostering a Sense of Community and Support

Mountain Community Bank, nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s picturesque highlands, stands as a vital financial institution dedicated to serving its local community. With deep roots entrenched in the surrounding nature and culture, the bank emphasizes not just the provision of banking services but also a commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and support among its neighbors.

The bank recognizes that the residents of this community have unique financial needs that differ from those in larger urban areas. Understanding these local dynamics, Mountain Community Bank tailors its products and services to the community. From personal checking and savings accounts with competitive interest rates to specialized lending options for local businesses, the bank takes pride in providing solutions that resonate with its customers’ aspirations and goals.

Furthermore, Mountain Community Bank goes beyond traditional banking practices by actively participating in the community. Through various outreach programs and initiatives, they aim to uplift and engage with residents, ensuring that their banking experience is as much about personal relationships as it is about financial transactions. Whether through hosting financial literacy workshops or sponsoring local events, the bank strives to foster a sense of community and support.

One cornerstone of their service is the commitment to exceptional customer service. The bank’s staff is composed of residents who understand the nuances of the area. This localized knowledge allows them to provide personalized guidance, helping customers navigate financial decisions with confidence. Whether someone is looking to purchase a home, start a business, or simply manage

their day-to-day finances, Mountain Community Bank stands ready to assist with warmth and expertise.

Mountain Community Bank is more than just a financial institution; it is a committed neighbor working tirelessly to ensure that its banking products and services reflect the needs and values of the Highlands community. Their dedication to serving the community with integrity and transparency solidifies their role as a trusted partner in their customers’ financial journeys.

The Caffeinated Elk & Banner Elk Shirt Company—Year-round Visitor Destinations!

Almost nothing goes better with a rich cup of coffee than homemade fudge. And nothing goes better with homemade fudge than fresh, hand-scooped ice cream. Put them all together and you have a total sweet-toothtreat with a caffeine twist! Now, put them all under one roof with a giant waterwheel attached and you have The Caffeinated Elk “Fudgery & Coffeehouse.”

Located at 3221 Tynecastle Highway, Banner Elk, in the former Banner Elk Soap & Candle Company building, and across from the Sugar Mountain entrance, The Caffeinated Elk is a tastebud oasis for anyone traveling to and from all the attractions in Banner Elk, Sugar Mountain and the High Country.

The large elk sign out front notes: Coffee, Fudge, Ice Cream, Souvenirs. And, if that doesn’t grab your attention, nothing will. Owned and operated by William Ryan and family, The Caffeinated Elk serves a full array of fudge, ice cream, both hot and iced beverages, snacks, locally-themed gifts and, of course, a wide blend of fresh coffees. Plus, there’s a Continued on next page

Community & Local Business News

cozy sitting room for the kids to play games while enjoying their treats.

Along with The Caffeinated Elk, the Ryans also own the Banner Elk Shirt Company next door. Previously started by Don Iverson, the Banner Elk Shirt Company sports a wide variety of local and specialized t-shirts, hoodies, gifts and souvenirs, and has been a tourist destination for years.

“My wife is from Mexico and I’m originally from Florida. But I have lived in Linville Falls off and on since I was a boy, and I grew up skiing Sugar and visiting Banner Elk,” noted Ryan. “We opened the coffee shop due to customer demand over the past two years. And we purchased the Banner Elk Shirt Company because it is a long-established Banner Elk tourist destination. Both are family-run and prioritize making visitors feel welcome. And we are proud to serve repeat customers every season, year after year,” he added.

The Caffeinated Elk is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 828-898-4006. The Banner Elk Shirt Company is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call 828-8984007. Photos by Mark File

Apple Hill Farm Expands Outpost in Banner Elk

In early May, Apple Hill Farm Outpost celebrated the opening of their second building at their current retail location in downtown Banner Elk. “We’ve been hard at work transforming the second building and have lots of exciting additions to our already fabulous line up.” That includes an expanded gourmet food marketplace, new garden items, and a barnyard playroom upstairs for kids.

As an extension of their beloved on-site farm store at 400 Apple Hill Road outside Banner Elk, the Apple Hill Farm Outpost offers everything that visitors have loved about the

Apple Hill Farm store, plus many new and exciting gifts, local foods, and more.

The brainchild of Lee Rankin, farmer and creator of Apple Hill Farm—founded in 2003—their Outpost retail location is abundantly filled to the brim with a seemingly endless array of Apple Hill Farm’s original products, plus a wide variety of local and regional food and gift vendors who are official members of the “Got to be NC” program, a marketing initiative of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services.

A solo mom and breast cancer survivor, Lee was initially inspired to launch Apple Hill Farm after locking eyes with an alpaca at the Kentucky State Fair prior to moving to the North Carolina mountains. Some 23 years later, her working farm raises alpacas, llamas, angora goats, zebu cattle, horses, pigs, donkeys, chickens, and livestock guardian dogs.

Inside Rankin’s Apple Hill Outpost, shoppers will discover a wide range of alpaca fiber products— socks, scarves, hats, gloves, shawls, and vests. The Kid’s Corner is stocked with stuffed animals, engaging toys, and hands-on crafts. Fiber enthusiasts will love the Fiber Arts Room, bursting with alpaca yarns in every color, along with high-quality knitting, crochet, and needle felting supplies.

The expanded Local Foods Market highlights local agriculture and features products from Ashe County Cheese, Liar’s Table, Old Beech Mountain Farms, Old Turnpike Farm, Shipley Farms Beef, among others. Shop from a variety of ready-to-eat dips, heat-and-serve pies, and specialty foods made right here in North Carolina.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Outpost is a place to slow down, connect with local agriculture, and bring home something special.

The Apple Hill Farm Outpost at 314 Shawneehaw Avenue is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily for the summer season. For more information visit applehillfarmnc.com/apple-hillfarm-outpost/ or call 828-898-2200.

CML Cultural Arts Editor Retires from Appalachian State University

After more than five decades of extraordinary leadership in the arts, Keith Martin retired from his role as the inaugural John M. Blackburn Distinguished Professor of Theatre

....read all about

at Appalachian State University in May. His career spans 55+ years, over 450 productions, and acclaimed work across theatre, dance, opera, symphony, film, and television—including a 2010 Emmy® Award.

Keith’s connection to the College of Fine and Applied Arts (CFAA) stretches back 36 consecutive years, beginning with his service on the Theatre and Dance Advisory Board from 1990 to 2015, including several years as chair. Upon joining the faculty in 2011, he elevated the program through visionary teaching, mentorship, and industry leadership.

His contributions have been recognized with the Plemmons Faculty Leadership Medallion, the Outstanding Service Award, the University College Award for Excellence in Community Engagement, the NC Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, and induction into the SETC Hall of Fame. He has also written more than 250 articles as cultural arts editor and senior writer for Carolina Mountain Life magazine.

A dedicated educator, Keith led 38 student trips to Appalachian’s NYC Loft, guiding 665 students throughout transformative professional experiences. He also chairs the board of the Appalachian Theatre, helping lead its $10 million restoration.

Before App State, Keith held leadership roles with the Richmond Ballet and Charlotte Repertory Theatre, collaborating with artists such as Tony Kushner and Olympia Dukakis, and advocating for the arts at state and national levels.

“Keith’s greatest legacy is the generations of students he inspired,” said CFAA Dean, Dr. Shan Shan Lou. “We wish Keith the best in his retirement.” —Contributed by Appalachian State University, with photo from CFAA.

Mary Tobias Miller Interior Design & Abode Home

Elevated interiors with a breath of fresh air

By Steve York

From her hometown of Columbia, South Carolina, to The Big Apple, to Charlotte, to Florida, and Banner Elk, Mary Tobias Miller’s 40-plus-year interior design journey continues to be an exciting ride. Her journey began by attending the New York School of Design, followed by receiving her A.A.S. degree from the prestigious Parsons School of Design and The New School. After completing graduate studies, her skills were further honed by 10 years working with several major NYC design firms as well as spending nights and weekends working at Sotheby’s auction house.

It was in New York that Miller began to perfect her trademark craft and style. One of her most valuable experiences arose from working with a small upper east side firm where she got the handson renovation experiences she longed for. Those projects included soup-to-nuts renovations in some of New York’s most prestigious addresses. She would strip spaces to the studs and then build them back in the most exquisitely detailed way. Along with that came a truly transformative and unique opportunity to be mentored by famed NYC residential interior designer, Suzie Frankfurt.

Frankfurt created interiors for the likes of fashion designer Gianni Versace, Young & Rubican Advertising Agency, pop artist Andy Warhol, the fashion column editor for Harper’s Bazaar and Editor-in-Chief for Vogue, Diana Vreeland, legendary writer Bob Colacello, and many other top tier NYC executives and celebrities. In fact, it was Suzie Frankfurt who inspired Miller’s

deep passion for antiques and collectibles. So…not a bad start for sparking the inspiration for Miller to create her own design firm!

Since establishing Mary Tobias Miller Interior Design & Abode Home in Charlotte, Banner Elk and Key Largo, Florida, her luxury interior design projects have spanned everything from the most exclusive neighborhoods of Charlotte, Palm Beach, FL, Jackson Hole, WY, The Hamptons, NY, and right here in Linville, NC. She and her team have adorned the homes of celebrities, socialites, and the crème de la crème. Along the way, she actually learned to fly a single-engine airplane solo, and even managed to rub shoulders with TV stars like Oprah Winfrey and Conan O’Brien.

Yet, despite all that “glamorous” background, Miller has maintained her gracious southern sensibilities, genuine affability, a warm sense of humor, and a conversational style that communicates both professional expertise and inspires creative client collaboration.

“My design philosophy is built upon a love of mixing the unexpected with the traditional; with layering modern elements with antiques; and including oneof-a-kind elements to make a home feel both curated and timeless. In general, I like to mix colors and patterns to achieve a light and airy environment. And I feel my design projects should reflect the owner’s style, not specifically my own,” Miller noted.

Known for taking a fresh approach to residential interior design, her true

passion is traveling the world in search of that one inspiring element that is special enough to create a room around. “Styles have come and gone more than once since I began. And, at the end of the day, the magic and balance is in how you mix those things you treasure,” she added.

With three offices and retail boutiques in Charlotte, Banner Elk, and Ocean Reef in Key Largo, Miller offers both full-service interior design plus a rich line of furnishings, décor, accessories and gifts both instore and online. Her four-person design team and 10-person retail staff round out her operations, providing exceptional design skills and customer service wherever her customers may be.

Splitting time between her Charlotte residence, her Key Largo office, and her Linville abode, Miller feels equally at home here in these beautiful High Country mountains, and enjoys close friendships with many year-round residents as well as customers who also split their time between here and their hometowns.

Miller’s design work has been featured in Traditional Home Magazine, AD Pro, Sotheby’s Designer profiles; and New York’s Aspire Magazine. She has also been published in The Charlotte Business Journal, Charlotte Agenda, Charlotte Home Design & Decor and Southpark Magazine. And she is frequently approached to write design articles for the Charlotte Observer. Miller’s Banner Elk location is at the Grandfather Center, Suite 1, at 4004 NC Hwy 105, and find her online at marytobiasmiller.com and shopabodehomedesign.com

Springhouse Farm: Cultivating Resilience

By Julie Farthing

Whenand Community in the High Country

the mountain air starts to lose its bite and the early summer sun begins to warm the earth, Springhouse Farm kicks into high gear.

Established in 2008 by Jean and Amy Fiedler, a mother and daughter team who initially sold their harvest with only a modest table and an umbrella, Springhouse Farm is now a destination.

“Mom and I started planting 18 years ago. Farming has always been in me but I am totally self-taught,” says Amy of her first years on the farm. “I went to a lot of conferences and had a local mentor, Charles Church, who was a respected farmer in the High Country. We started with a small garden and mom and I grew tomatoes and lettuce that first year. We had a lot of rain that summer so it was a bad year for tomatoes but a good year for lettuce,” Amy laughs. “As the years progressed, we went from planting on a quarter acre to eight acres.”

To a visitor stopping by in June or July, the fields look like a living quilt of vibrant greens and floral pops of color. Every variety of flowers that grace the fields started out as seeds, meticulously tucked into propagation trays that line

the greenhouse tables. Long before the first robin appears, these seedlings are moved to grow tunnels to get used to the mountain air while staying safe from any late-season chills. Once the threat of frost is truly gone, it becomes a total summer sprint with all hands on deck. Using every square inch of the 8-acre plot, as one crop is pulled and put into a basket, the next one is going into the ground. It’s a constant dance to make sure the community never sees an empty shelf. “We do intensive farming,” Amy says of the continuous crop rotation. “The minute something comes out, we put something back in.”

Springhouse also serves as a classroom for Appalachian State University’s Sustainable Development students. Amy leads a team of mostly female interns, teaching them regenerative farming and the importance of nutrient-dense “medicine-food.” The interns gain practical, hands-on experience in the rigors of sustainable agriculture.

“These students have been sitting in a classroom, but have never really implemented those skills. So they come here and get their hands in the dirt and learn from the practical side of farming,” she

explains. “The transfer of knowledge is the biggest trade-off, and they gain an incredible work ethic.”

One of her new interns recently scanned the bucolic scene before her and remarked how dreamy everything was. “I work nine days a week, ten hours a day, and my back hurts because I’m not twenty anymore—and looking over the fields all I see is work,” Amy says of the pastoral view. “I only see all the plants we’ve put in and all the ones we’ve lost already. So, I have to shape shift the feeling of exhaustion and change it into gratitude and appreciation.”

Much of that gratitude began soon after Helene hit and destroyed years of hard work. “She came from that little creek, and that creek down there,” Amy points out, referring to the flood waters of Helene. “It just took everything.”

Not only did the storm wash away the Farm Stand, hundreds of perennial plants, and precious topsoil, it also deposited hundreds of rocks and trash from upstream. “We went to cultivate the lower field but the soil was too rocky,” says Amy

of the hurricane aftermath. “I thought, ‘I’ve always wanted a pond,’ so a guy working here at the time dug down four feet until he hit a spring, and now it’s a naturally fed pond,” she gazes at the pool of water just beyond the Farm Stand. “So, now I have expanded to aquaculture and have toads and I’m going to get fish and plant native grasses. You never stop learning. Helene turned something really bad into something positive.”

The new and improved Farm Stand is the vibrant intersection where Springhouse Farm’s bounty meets the community’s trust. This stand is more than just a marketplace; it is a symbol of resilience, having been rebuilt by Appalachian State University’s Building Sciences Department students after Hurricane Helene destroyed the original structure. It operates entirely on the deeply-held honor system, offering the freshest vegetables, beautiful flower bouquets, plant starts, and farm-inspired merchandise—all made available through mutual respect and community faith. Availability is always subject to the rhythms of the season.

Beyond the daily rhythms of planting and harvesting, Springhouse Farm serves as a lively hub for connection and celebration. The farm gates swing wide for a series of seasonal events designed to root the community deeper into the land and each other.

The “You-Pick” flower events offer a hands-on experience in the fields, allowing guests to wander through the blooms and curate their own bouquets. These gatherings are often centered around various activities that encourage visitors of all ages to linger and enjoy the mountain air.

For those seeking a taste of the harvest, special farm dinners bring the bounty directly to the table. From romantic date nights under the wide Appalachian sky to sun-drenched community brunches, these meals highlight the freshest ingredients, often traveling only a few yards from soil to plate.

The farm also continues its mission as an outdoor classroom, hosting guest speakers and workshops focused on regenerative practices and sustainable agriculture. These educational opportunities

allow neighbors to learn directly from experts and practitioners, fostering a shared commitment to keeping the High Country food system healthy and resilient for generations to come.

Amy’s mom, Jean, summed up the mother-daughter’s mission for Springhouse Farm:

“Amy and I have this very strong stewardship of taking care of this land. It’s not ours, it’s just passing through our hands at this point in time.”

To stay up to date on all farm activities, including You-Pick events, farm dinners, and workshops, please visit the Springhouse Farm website at springhousefarm.net. The Farm is located at 433 Silverstone Rd, Vilas, NC, just 15 minutes from downtown Boone and Appalachian State University.

The Greatest Show on Earth

Mountains usually bring to mind spectacular views, snow skiing, ice skating, hiking, fishing, wildflowers. However, there is one thing you would never consider here in the mountains—a CIRCUS! You gotta be kidding? Nope! In August 1984 (Labor Day Weekend) the Clyde Beatty-Cole Brothers Circus came to the mountains of Western North Carolina, more specifically to Beech Mountain. The “world’s largest” circus under The Big Top was celebrating its centennial birthday so why not come to Eastern America’s Highest Town—Beech Mountain!

They gave 10 performances—more than the norm in one place—attracting folks from all the surrounding counties. As the lengthy procession of circus trucks and vans rolled into Banner Elk, curious people began gathering, wondering what this strange caravan was; it appeared to be the makings of a circus. Had the circus gotten “off track” and should it really be heading to Asheville or other big cities? The vehicles began the trek up Beech Mountain Parkway and stopped part way up the mountain at the old Country Kitchen, which had a large parking area where the circus caravan could stop.

At this point, the elephants were unloaded in the parking area. Surely this space wasn’t big enough to put up the Big Top

By Dedy Traver

tent? Due to the weight of the elephants and the steep, curvy road to the top of Beech Mountain, it was deemed safer for the elephants to walk the rest of the way up the mountain! The only elephant that was allowed to ride was “Helen,” who was one of the older elephants. So, the Parade of the Pachyderms started, along with a number of eager photographers who had trouble keeping up. As the caravan approached the top of Beech Mountain, Mayor Fred Pfohl, Ski Beech Director of Marketing Paul Bousquet, and other dignitaries were waiting to welcome the Clyde Beatty-Cole Brothers Circus to the mountains!

The contingent of clowns was, of course, dancing and joking with the many children anxious to see a circus. Keys to the Town were given to circus organizers and in turn Fred Pfohl was given a certificate. Following the welcoming ceremonies there was an elephant race, with three local media icons riding atop the elephants—Sherrie Pritchard of The Avery Journal came in first place, Ken Ketchie of The Mountain Times in second place, and Donna Pipes of The Watauga Democrat took third place.

The next morning, the cool and foggy weather didn’t stop a crowd of local folks from making the trip back up Beech Mountain to watch the raising of the Big Top in one of the ski resort’s parking lots.

Around 7 a.m., the quiet of dawn was suddenly filled with the pounding of the stake drivers, and the grinding of the spool as bolts of canvas unrolled. The steel center poles were angled upward to provide the framework for the tent. The elephants were then brought in to raise the tent, which appeared to be effortless! Once the tent was up, it was stretched out and firmly anchored. The brand-new red, white, and blue tent was the length of a football field, covering more than an acre of ground and towering five stories high; it was purchased for Clyde Beatty-Cole Brothers at a cost of $125,000.

What exactly did it take to put on shows under the Big Top at the time? Well, there were 230 employees who traveled eight months of the year to about 115 towns. They performed 15 times a week, seven days a week, with operating costs totaling nearly $15,000 per day. There were about 80 caravans (trucks, tractors, trailers) that required gas, oil, tires, and maintenance. Then there were the animals: nine elephants; six horses with a daily allowance of 400 pounds of grain and 40 bales of hay; 18 lions and tigers who consumed 200 pounds of meat every day; seven baboons; and several dogs.

While at Beech Mountain, the circus gave 10 performances in four days. The Big Top was ablaze with lights and sparkling costumes, the roar of the lions, the trumpeting of the elephants, and lots of laughter as clowns with red noses and crazy hats wandered through the audience. Spectators were treated to a full three-ring circus including a brass band, and of course, the Ringmaster.

The circus performers opened the show with a parade of colorful pageantry including stilt walkers, fancy jugglers, a troupe of terrier dogs, and a contingent of crazy clowns; most unexpectedly, leading the parade was the Mayor of Banner Elk, the

Honorable David Tate, riding atop one of the elephants! The two-hour performances were filled with tigers and lions, baboons, the “death-defying” acts of the trapeze artists and tight-wire walkers (using no nets!).

The Zamperla Equestrian Troupe presented their famous Italian Bareback Roman Ride. One of the most bizarre acts of the show was the incomparable Michelle, who was suspended from the Big Top’s peak by her hair while doing a complete body spin! (Now that might just give you a headache!)

And throughout the performance, the Beatty-Cole “Windjammers” Brass Band made magic music, drawing from a repertoire of 200 numbers.

As each performance drew to a close, the ground under the tent began to shake and rumble as the enormous elephants went in procession around the inside of the Big Top. All the performers assembled for the grand finale—a special salute to the 1984 Olympics.

Those of us who attended the Clyde Beatty-Cole Brothers Circus that year came away feeling that we really had attended “The Greatest Show on Earth”!

Much of the information in this article was sourced from articles written by Sherrie Pritchard, Ginger Walsh and Dudley Gilmer that appeared in The Avery Journal and The Mountain Times

“At this age we are trying to do all that everyone expects of us while pushing ourselves to continue to “grow” and “evolve.” We know that “Motion is Lotion,” but is there anything wrong with taking the elevator after going to the gym for a walk?”

The Most Important Bone in the Body

What is our most important bone? This is an interesting and important question. (And becomes more so as we age.) It depends on which medical article you read, or which drug ad you hear as to which bone is actually considered the most important.

In my opinion, it is the funny bone. Yes, often named but never x-rayed... the funny bone.

What informs my answer? The reading of many articles on how to age healthfully. Retaining a sense of humor into our senior years is invaluable for our positive outlook on life. Sharing time with friends is another key component to healthy senior living. I am “happy” to share some fine examples of when exercising and caring for your funny bone is needed:

Buying a friend the same gift you gave her for a past birthday is one indication that you need to use your funny bone. You must learn to laugh it off in this situation. It must have been an appropriate gift before, so she should enjoy it again!

Purchasing gifts ahead of time to avoid the rush, then forgetting where you hid them. Again, laugh it off as your house gets better organized; maybe you’ll relocate an item you had been searching for last month, or last year.

Sending a thoughtful card to an ill friend and duplicating the same gesture with the same card a few weeks later. If she mentions it, laugh it off and remark that you think of her so often and thought she needed extra cheering.

Hold it! I know you are thinking that these are disturbing signs of forgetfulness (or dare I say, dementia?). But not necessarily so. One theory by experts is that as we age, we have so much data in our brains that the space for more details becomes increasingly limited.

The myth of having plenty of time when you retire is just that... a myth. As senior citizens, we have many activities and responsibilities. So, as we scurry (yes, we can still scurry!) around with meetings, babysitting, transporting, visiting, shopping, cooking, some things are relegated to the back of our minds. That is not dementia!

One particularly excellent way to exercise your funny bone is to disengage and observe your son or daughter parenting your grandchildren. I know some of you may not be in this situation. But for those who are, this activity can be amusing, if not downright hilarious. Laugh it off! (Even if only privately.) That lowers the intensity and avoids possible interference and conflict for you and your family. Let it bring back memories of funny situations from the past that are worth sharing with your adult child as a matter of perspective.

Learning to see the humor in everyday situations strengthens your funny bone to combat stress and anxiety. Furthermore, being able to see yourself in the situation is ideal. Years ago, my college roommate told me she was taking her mother and her mother-inlaw on a trip. The ladies were in the backseat of her car and before they had even traveled 20 miles, one of the ladies exclaimed, “Oh no! We have to go back! I’ve lost my pocketbook.” My friend calmly said, “MeMaw, we haven’t stopped anywhere yet. You have it somewhere in the backseat with you.”

I remembered this story when I had the occasion to have a brief panic attack when I couldn’t find my purse in the car and realized that my car would not have started without the key fob located inside the purse somewhere in the car!

A friend was well known for her outstanding banana pudding. She signed up to bring it to the church picnic. During the picnic, she complained to me that it just didn’t taste right. It was not her usual pudding, and she couldn’t figure out why. When I tasted it, I found it to be rich, creamy, and delicious—but without a single banana in it! I didn’t want to tell her because I knew she had kept her grandchildren overnight, fed them breakfast, and taught a Sunday School class before coming to the event. But I decided that we should both strengthen our funny bones and giggle about it.

There is something to the old adage, “Laugh and the world laughs with you. Cry and you cry alone.” Keep loving, living, and laughing.

—The (giggling) Estelle Brewer

Let Me Introduce You to a Living Library of Heirloom Apples in Crossnore!

By Douglas Hundley

The Crossnore Heritage Orchard has become a well-known location for tasting old-time Appalachian Mountain apples. These apple varieties are “historically very old,” and their histories have been delivered to visitors in our “community orchard” in mostly traditional ways. However, with so many folks carrying cell phones now, what better way to deliver the stories of this “Living Library of heirloom apple varieties” than with 21st Century tools, such as our new Orchard website! Now, we can share much more information in real-time as you visit these historic apple trees in person. Where else can you pick and taste apples, while learning all about them—including when, where, and who first discovered and selected them in early American history.

Looking back 17 years, in the spring of 2009, what was known then as the “Crossnore School” contacted me at the Avery County Cooperative Extension Center. They wanted to know more about the heirloom apple trees we were selling at our Annual Plant Sale. They had a piece of property they wanted to landscape, and to my surprise they wanted to fully landscape the property with these apple trees. I thought to myself, “What a great opportunity for a Community Orchard; even an Heirloom Apple Park?”

They wanted at least one of each variety, about 20 different apple varieties. Over time we added several more local

varieties, and today, we have 28 different varieties (on 43 trees) of “America’s finest heirloom apples.” With a 2014 grant from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture (NCDA), we secured high quality interpretive signage for the trees and spelled out the local history of each as best we could. Thus began, the Crossnore Heritage Orchard.

Now, if you are wondering: “Wait! What exactly are Heirloom Apples?” here is a brief explanation. An “heirloom” is something of great value that is handed down for generations. For hundreds of years each of these apple varieties have been grown in home orchards, providing food, traditions and memories for generations of American families.

But, there’s more to the story.

As you probably know, in the 1600s Europeans began migrating to North America. However, the Spanish were exploring the New World in the 1500s when they discovered, “There seem to be no apple trees in this country!” Our Ancestors were knowledgeable about apples and they wanted to grow apple trees in America. However, the Atlantic Crossing was dangerous at the time and they were committed to bringing only essential supplies. So, our ancestors brought with them apple seeds rather than trees.

They understood well that apple trees grown from these seeds would not grow

the same exact apples as those from which the seeds had come. You see, apple propagation is heterogeneous, much like you and I. Our children do not look exactly like us, nor are they exactly like each other. For more on this subject, read the page titled, “What is an Heirloom Apple” on our new website.

Our ancestors began planting what are called “seedling orchards.” They knew they could harvest and press these “new (seedling) American apples” to make apple juice, then ferment the juice to become “cider.” This “hard cider” would remain stable for months, allowing them to utilize the nutrition from all the apples. This practice continued well over 200 years.

Our ancestors also knew that most of these new apple varieties would be “average” apples at best, but perhaps 1 out of 100 would be an “excellent” apple, like a Golden Delicious or a McIntosh. When they realized they had an excellent apple tree in their home orchard, they would name it and begin propagating it through “grafting.” They shared these apple trees with neighbors, and as their children spread westward across America, they took these new, excellent apple varieties with them. Along the way, pioneer home orchards continued growing and “selecting” more excellent apple varieties. Selected over 300 years, these apple varieties are what we call “Heirloom Apples” today.

The Decline of Home Orchards

In the 1900s, home orchards, which had been so common from the beginning of America, began to decline, likely because of the Second Industrial Revolution beginning in the late 1800s when young people started leaving family farms and taking jobs in larger cities. Research by a North Carolinian, Creighton Lee Calhoun, documented that of about 1,800 heirloom apple varieties once grown in the southeastern states, only 400 could be found in the year 1990! Lee and his wife Edith published a book in 1997 called “Old Southern Apples.” This monumental book alerted us all to this loss of American history. Thanks to the Calhouns and their close friends in North Carolina, many of these heirloom apple varieties are being grafted again and orchardists are replanting them to keep these remaining varieties from being lost forever!

Here at the Crossnore Heritage Orchard, we are establishing one of the few public Community Orchards in Western North Carolina dedicated to preserving these heirloom apple varieties. Cooperative Extension Office staff and volunteers have been taking care of the apple trees, while Crossnore Communities for Children provides the land and takes very good care of the property.

Ten years after the apple trees in the Heritage Orchard were planted, they began to produce lots of apples. We had won-

dered if the public would be interested in picking the fruit—we were happy to see they were! Recently the Orchard has been producing at least 100 bushels a year and very few are left for the deer.

Heritage Orchard Stewards

Over the last seven years, Avery County Extension Agent Bill Hoffman and volunteers have been caring for the apple trees, fertilizing and pruning them. However, Bill and the Friends of the Orchard are getting older—we realized we needed help. Someone suggested, “Why don’t you build a website and let more people know more about the Orchard?” Perhaps with a digital presence, we could ask for donations and hire some help for pruning and other heavy lifting. So, 2025 became the year to build our website, and the more we worked on it, the more we realized what a great opportunity we had to deliver the story of these apples in a significantly better way.

Today the Crossnore Heritage Orchard website can be accessible on all your devices at Crossnoreheritageorchard.com. You will find new photos and over 100-year-old USDA pomological watercolors of each heirloom apple variety, as well as information on the local, state and national history of each apple variety. You’ll discover that the history of heirloom apples in America tracks with the history of America itself!

Inside the Crossnore Heritage Orchard we have new welcome signs with a QR code

that allows you to connect to the website on your smartphone to see and read about each apple tree while visiting the Orchard. Enjoy picking and tasting these organically grown apples right off the tree. As you do, you might wonder, “Who else used to eat this apple; perhaps Benjamin Franklin or President Washington in 1782, or one of my great-grandfathers in 1882?”

Crossnore Heritage Orchard is now a 501c3 non-profit organization, able to accept tax deductible donations. If you would like to help us take care of this Community Orchard, we invite you to make a donation online or while visiting the orchard. Simply use PayPal on the “Donate” page of our website, or the PayPal QR code on our sign when you visit the Orchard—and be sure to take some different apples home with you while you learn when, where, and who discovered them and began grafting them to share with us all!

Thank you for your interest in local heritage and American history.

Visit the Crossnore Heritage Orchard seven days a week, daylight to dark, at 114 Maple Street in Crossnore, NC. Parking is available at the Tin Trout Restaurant parking lot. The orchard produces ripe apples now through October. More details at crossnoreheritageorchard.com, or contact Crossnoreheritageorchard@gmail.com or 828-387-0174.

Howell Cook: “Mr. Valle Crucis”

By Doris Stam

“Mr. Valle Crucis” is how many regarded Howell Cook in his heyday— which was a few years back. As a native, involved in just about everything to do with Valle Crucis, Howell has been well-known and well loved. Speaking of hay, he has cut more hay than you can imagine—mostly that of his neighbors, although he has his own farm to tend. On a summer day when I visited him, he had just put up hay for an “elderly” neighbor—keep in mind that Howell is himself in his nineties—and was now repairing this man’s gate, having noticed it was damaged.

A dark tan and deeply creased face testifies to a life lived outside doing farmwork. I find him by one of his outbuildings calmly welding the broken gate. His thoughtfully slow mountain twang, identifying him as a true local, is music to my ears as he greets me— “DAH-us,” with a uniqueness unlike anyone else who pronounces Doris. His slow cadence continues in a cheerful tone—”Well, HEL-lo. How’s the world a-treatin’ ya?” We head over to his home where it is quieter and he can hear better, and soon his six-toed barn cat has jumped in my lap on the porch swing and purrs loudly.

The next morning my cousin and I head over to help pick beans. Howell pulls on his tall wellies, grabs some big buckets and leads us out through the wet

grass. We each pick a row of the prettiest half-runner beans you’ll ever see. He loves to share his produce with others.

A good neighbor. That’s the simple story of Howell’s life, all 96 years of it. He thinks of himself as “just a poor farmer,” but those who know him realize the wealth of generosity and good humor in this friend.

Have you ever been thankful that no convenience store blemishes the beauty of Valle Crucis? This special place is an Historic District due in no small part to the efforts of Howell Cook, who worked alongside another valley native, Dr. Frances Marian Farthing (1911-2000), and others, to secure the designation— a huge task. He cares about his valley “neighborhood.” Howell was voted Chairman of the Valle Crucis Community Council when it began in 1987, which created the beloved Valle Crucis Community Park, and served on the council for over thirty-five years.

As he and I visit, Howell lets-fly one of his trademark Hee-Haw one-liners, and his impish grin widens. His eyes twinkle as his entire body lifts with an infectious laugh. “I’m full of baloney,” and he giggles as he tells me that he is “well preserved.” Truly said, for Howell ate baloney for lunch every day at the original Mast Store. For decades Howell and his jokes were a noon-time fixture at Mast Store, until the pandemic end-

ed those gatherings around the heating stove where old friends would warmup, grab a bite, and often play a game of checkers.

“I was born farmin’,” Howell jokes, and delights me with his earliest memory. As a child, barely able to toddle around, he was propped atop the horse as his father cultivated the family garden. Drifting to sleep, the young Howell slid off the plow horse but insisted with cries and tears to be put back on the horse. To this day he uses a horse to plant and tend his large garden.

“Gee” and “Haw” are called out by Howell to direct the horse, with possibly a few harsh “heys” if the animal hesitates in the turn when the plow is pulled up and reset to weed the next row. Howell is still able to guide the reins, but Scott Jensen helps with the heavier plow now that Howell is in his 90s. Putting the complicated traces on and off the horse is something Howell could do in his sleep. He is an artist at work as he quietly and methodically gathers the segments of harness and lines from the horse’s neck, flanks, and hind to be placed in their exact location inside the barn stall for the umpteen thousandth time, just as his father had done.

Subsistence farming was a hard life for families like the Cooks. During the 1930s they nearly starved to death, Howell reported, and this was no exaggera-

tion. Somehow, they “got by,” but barely. The Holy Cross Episcopal Church has a long history of generous care for the community, and Howell’s family were grateful recipients, particularly of the Christmas gifts donated to children.

When he was 10 years old, Howell’s mother joined with a neighbor to give their sons their first ever birthday celebration, poverty having prevented any celebrating in his early years. Before that year Howell was unaware that he even had a birthday.

Raising and selling a calf provided for the purchase of a second-hand bicycle when Howell was older. As Dare-devil teenagers, Howell joined a few friends to ride bikes down the valley mountain, all the way from Matney on Hwy 194, flying around the “S” curve. Howell laughs as he remembers: “It’s a wonder we didn’t get killed.”

Thankfully he didn’t get killed in the Korean War, though drafted as a teen. Howell stays close to home. Always has, except for his time in the service. When he returned from the Army in 1953, he used his earnings to build a spring house and put in septic with running water for the family. When he also installed electricity for his parents, the Cooks had no need of it—nothing to plug in. That house caught fire in the 1980s on a very cold winter night. Water from several fire trucks froze before reaching the flames.

Howell has seen many a cold winter, and asserts that the local farmer knows how to prepare for being snowed in. He laughs about the 1960 blizzard when the National Guard airlifted hay when the area was snow bound. “They did not know what they was a-doing—busted a roof and even dropped hay on a cow, killin’ it.”* If drought threatens his garden again in the summer, he knows how to pump water through a long hose from the creek across the meadow for his corn, beans and potatoes.

Hardship is part of a being a farmer. Howell stoically endures. He presses on season-to-season with his garden and his cows. He clearly remembers the frightening 1940 flood, when his family took refuge in the loft of a neighbor’s barn “up the holler.” Booming explosions filled the air when underground streams burst through the mountainsides, and torrents of water gushed everywhere, taking the trees and earth with them.

Not in a hurry, no rushing this farmer. Gentle and steady is the habit of a lifetime. Repairing the tractor or haybaler again, Howell is patient and handy, by necessity. On his tractor most days of the year, Howell has cut, raked, baled and put-up hay for folks in the community for over 75 years. Joking with

friends, swapping stories about old times brought joy and easy laughter.

He can hardly hear now, though. That many years on a loud tractor has ruined his hearing, and carrying on a conversation, sadly, is no longer an easy thing. But his mind is sharp as ever and recalling the escapades of his early life—delighting his listeners—ignites that infectious giggle. Apparently, Howell was a rascal. And he can still square dance—oh my, he used to be a humdinger of a dancer.

A good neighbor. A life well-lived. Howell Cook has helped make Valle Crucis a place of goodness and beauty for all of us.

*https://www.ourstate.com/the-great-blizzardof-1960/

Best

DINING | CATERING LODGING | EVENT VENUE

Lodging Event Venue

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

Summer Farmers’ Markets

Our local Farmers’ Markets are overflowing with goodness! This convenient directory will help you find a market near you—please be sure to confirm dates/times with your markets of choice prior to scheduling a trip.

Abingdon Farmers Market

Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m., and Tuesdays 3–6 p.m.

through September/October

100 Remsburg Drive (the corner of Remsburg Dr. and Cummings St.) in 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

Next to the Historic Banner Elk School, 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC

Beech Mountain Farmers’ Market

First Fridays 2–6 p.m. through October

In the public parking lot across from Fred’s General Mercantile, next to the Sledding Hill, 105 Bark Park Way, Beech Mountain, NC

Blowing Rock Thursday Market

Thursdays 1–5 p.m. through September 24

On the lawn of the Chamber of Commerce building, 132 Park Ave., Blowing Rock, NC

Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture’s King Street Market

Tuesdays 3:30–6:30 p.m. through October 126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC

Damascus Farmers Market

Thursdays, 4-7 p.m. through October

At a temporary location for the 2026 season at The Speckled Trout Outfitters Annex lot across from Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery, 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

Town of Newland Flea & Farmers Market Third Saturdays 10 a.m.–2 p.m. through September

Avery Square, 100 Park St., downtown Newland, 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 September

Tuesdays 3:30–5:30 p.m., through September

Yadkin Valley Marketplace in downtown N. Wilkesboro, NC

Yancey County Farmers Market

Saturdays 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. through the fall season

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 fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, artisan foods, cut flowers, body care products, and plants online and pick them up at one of seven convenient locations throughout Ashe, Avery, and Watauga counties. highcountryfoodhub.org

High Country Farm Tour

Spend the day exploring local farms, meeting animals, and enjoying the best of Watauga County by participating in the High Country Farm Tour on Saturday, September 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participating Farms include:

n Shipley Farms Beef

n Apple Hill Farm

n Against the Grain

n Springhouse Farm

n Grandfather Vineyard

n Heritage Homestead

n Full Moon Farm Collective

Get a behind-the-scenes look at each farm during a guided tour; farms will feature their products for sale in addition to the tour experience, so don’t forget your cooler! Tickets are $35 for an entire carload ($45 after September 4). Visit www.tickettailor.com/ events/highcountryagritourismgroup for more information and to purchase tickets.

Summer Beverage Guide

CELEBRATE THE GOOD TIMES!

n Grandfather Vineyard

225 Vineyard Lane, Banner Elk, NC grandfathervineyard.com

828.963.2400

“Cool off today with a bottle of ‘Hair of the Dog,’ one of our favorite summer reds!”

n Banner Elk Winery

60 Deer Run, Banner Elk, NC bannerelkwinery.com

828.898.9090

“A glass of rosé, kissed by the mountain sun. This isn’t just wine. It’s Banner Elk in a bottle.”

n Linville Falls Winery

9557 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC linvillefallswinery.com 828.765.1400

“Dreaming of blueberry wine & BBQ.”

n Old Barn Winery and Vineyards

2152 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, NC oldbarnwinery.com | 336.846.6060

“Displaying dark, rich hues of purple and red, with flavors adjacent to a fresh, blackberry cobbler, this wine is inviting to all wine drinkers. Our BlackBeary is very popular among our customers…and we get it: this wine is mouth-watering!”

n Beech Mountain Brewing 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC beechmountainbrewingco.com 828.387.2011

“The sun & our amber ale make the perfect combo!”

n Lost Province Brewing Co. 130 N Depot St, Boone, NC lostprovince.com | 828.265.3506

“Our most popular New England Style IPA, also known as a Hazy IPA. Mango, pineapple, and passionfruit flavors pair well with citrusy foods and lighter fare.”

Continued on next page

n Villa Nove Farm & Vineyard

1877 Dry Hill Rd, Butler, TN waterfrontgroupwatauga.com/villa-novevineyard 424.768.0345

“Cabernet Franc ~ our classic combination of red and blackberry fruit. This beautiful wine is elegant, refined, layered, and textured like liquid velvet in a glass.”

n Mountain Grounds Coffee & Tea Co.

3990 NC-105 S, Suite 10, Banner Elk, NC mountaingroundsnc.com 828.783.9069

“So how is your day going? However you’re feeling today, just know that there is a cup of coffee or latte waiting for you at Mountain Grounds!”

n Fred’s General Mercantile & Backside Deli

501 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604 fredsgeneral.com | 828.387.4838

“Charm, fully intact. Our wine section’s still rocking that rustic elegance—and yes, still tempting your taste buds. Come see what’s aged well.”

n Be Natural Market

273 Boone Height Dr, Boone, NC 28607 benaturalmarket.com 828.262.5592

“OLIPOP is more than a healthy soda alternative... it’s a fizzy tonic that provides prebiotics, plant fiber, and botanicals to support your microbiome and digestive health!”

n Lighthouse Wine & Liquor 1933 West Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN facebook.com/lighthousewineliquor 423.542.9463 (WINE)

“Our Single Barrel is here! Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength 130.5 proof! These are so limited. Don’t miss out.”

n Stick Boy Bread Company/Kitchen

345 Hardin St, Boone, NC 28607 211 Boone Heights Dr, Boone, NC 28607 stickboybread.com

828.268.9900 | 828.265.4141

“What’s summertime without some refreshing drinks? Come try our new bunch of menu items!”

RECIPES From CML’s Kitchen

By Meagan Goheen

THREE PERFECT PICNIC SALADS

BLACK CHERRY FARRO SALAD

INGREDIENTS

1 cup farro

2 cups vegetable broth

½ tsp salt

1 cup of black cherries, pitted and sliced in half

1 cap garbanzo peas, drained and rinsed

1 cup chopped kale

2 garlic scapes, diced (you can find at one of our local farmers’ markets, or replace with 2 garlic cloves, minced)

¼ cup flat leaf parsley, diced

½ cup crumbled feta

¼ cup pistachios

DRESSING

2 TBSP balsamic vinegar

2 TBSP extra virgin olive oil

1 TBSP honey

1 tsp soy sauce

1 tsp salt

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

• Mix dressing ingredients and set aside.

• Cook farro according to instructions, replacing water with vegetable broth.

• To a large bowl add black cherries, garbanzo peas, garlic, parsley, farro and dressing; mix to combine.

• Top with feta and pistachios.

*Delicious at room temperature or chilled for a potluck, picnic or meal prep

SUMMER PANZANELLA SALAD

INGREDIENTS

5 cups cubed crusty sourdough bread

3 TBSP olive oil, divided

2 cups of tomatoes, your favorite variety, cut into bitesize pieces

3 peaches, pitted and sliced

Kernels from 2 ears of corn

4 oz prosciutto, sliced

½ red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup chopped basil, plus 2 TBSP for topping

8 oz paneer or halloumi cheese, cut into ½-inch pieces and patted dry

A pinch of salt

DRESSING

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

the zest of 1 lemon

¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp salt

½ tsp cracked black pepper

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

• Spread the bread cubes onto a baking sheet. Toss with 1 TBSP of olive oil, and ½ tsp salt. Bake for about 15 minutes until crisp.

• Mix dressing ingredients and set aside.

• Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced prosciutto until lightly crisped. Remove and set aside.

• To the same skillet add 2 TBSP of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the cheese into the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Season with a pinch of salt.

• To a large bowl combine toasted bread, sliced peaches, tomatoes, corn kernels, red onion, and basil; toss.

• Top with crispy prosciutto, pan seared cheese and reserved basil.

LEMON ARTICHOKE PASTA SALAD

INGREDIENTS

1 lb pasta of your choice, cooked and chilled

12-oz jar of artichokes, chopped

½ cup grated parmesan

3 cups arugula

DRESSING

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

the zest of 1 lemon

¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey

1 small shallot, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

½ tsp crushed red pepper

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp cracked black pepper

DIRECTIONS

• Mix together dressing ingredients and set aside.

• To a large bowl, add pasta, artichokes, and parmesan.

• Pour the dressing over, toss to combine.

• Chill for 20 minutes, or overnight.

• Before serving, add the arugula, toss and enjoy!

made with love!

OUR SPONSORS: