Meagan Goheen captured this shot of an eastern tiger swallowtail (Papilio glaucus), a butterfly native to eastern North America commonly seen from spring to fall in the High Country. Adult butterflies feed on nectar from various flowers, including the lovely lilac on our cover. Lilacs thrive in our region due to the cooler mountain climate.
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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: Dr. Azra Bertrand, Rebecca Cairns, Jim Casada
Trimella Chaney, Kim S. Davis, Julie Farthing, Mark File Brennan Ford, Morgan Ford, Gail Greco Elizabeth Baird Hardy, Michael C. Hardy Angela Bollo-Higgins, Annie Hoskins, Paul Laurent Tom McAuliffe, Pan McCaslin, Kate Hamilton Pardee Karen Rieley, Landis Taylor, Georgia Walters Doug Winbon, and Steve York
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Fifty years ago, during the bicentennial of our country in 1976, I was touring with “Sounds of America,” a youth singing group out of Charlotte. We traveled for three weeks every summer across the entire, expansive United States singing about our love of God and country. I was in high school and felt privileged to be among approximately 100 high school and college students who packed our instruments, suitcases, voices and enthusiasm into three Trailways buses. We left for destinations as far away as Disneyland in California, the Grand Canyon, the famous Dakota Badlands, and Washington state while passing through the Great Plains and Midwest regions known as “the breadbasket of America.”
Those impressionable years created some of the most memorable highlights of my life, teaching me lessons that still influence how I think and process my world today. The bonus I received, on top of countless memories, are the life-long friendships that continue to be deepened.
The same summer, we sang on stage with then-president Gerald Ford at Freedom Park in Charlotte during one of many bicentennial events. It was energizing to be part of a collective group with common goals that were displayed through music.
Beginning with this edition of CML, we’re especially proud of our coverage of events throughout our region that celebrate our country’s history, heritage, and traditions.
Get your calendar ready and save the dates on your schedule for some incredible celebrations of America250!
spring!
Julie has contributed more than 60 articles in her 25 years of writing for CML
A drama major at East Carolina University with a concentration in broadcasting and journalism, she started her career in radio before moving to the High Country to raise her children. Her love of writing grew as a member of the Friday Noon Poets Society at UNC Chapel Hill. Today she enjoys writing about the people and places of Appalachia that make this region so special. A self-proclaimed foodie, she also enjoys theater, live music, and spending time on her century-old farm with her husband and a menagerie of animals. Read Julie’s article, Sanctuary in the High Country: Discovering the Quiet Magic of Turtle Island Preserve, on page 85.
After a career in advertising and publishing in New York and Boston, Kate returned to Nantucket Island after spending many summers to become Director of Tourism for 25 years.
There she met her husband, Gary Pardee. After semi-retiring to SC, Kate and Gary, while exploring, discovered the North Carolina mountains and were uplifted by their beauty and the people living there.
Now Kate writes while producing stories for Russ Rutan’s monthly TV show, BusinessSouthernStyle.com, streaming on USA Choice Network. Ashe County is where they now happily call home with their pup Rosie and new kitty Sheriff.
Read Kate’s article, The Mesmerizing Murals of Whitney Landwehrmann, on page 54.
Dr. Bertrand is a retired physician, award-winning author, ecosomatic health coach and educator, who lives with his wife and daughter outside Asheville, NC. He writes a Substack column, “The Biomancer,” focusing on the intersection of healing, ecology and somatics, with in-depth articles on the ecological healing arts. Azra also offers online training courses and in-person retreats geared to practitioners, but available to anyone with sincere interest. You can connect with him through his website www.AzraBertrand.com and on Instagram. Read his article, Let Nature be Thy Medicine: Nature Therapy in Appalachia, on page 113.
Kate Hamilton Pardee
Dr. Azra Bertrand
Julie Farthing
Regional Happenings Spring ‘26
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After months of playing in the snow and enjoying mugs of hot chocolate by a warm fire, we celebrate nature’s rebirth this season with a plethora of events and activities related to art, food, beverages, health, music, history, agriculture, sports, nature, and America250! You’ll find a sampling of opportunities here for residents and visitors to enjoy this spring and we encourage you to explore on your own for more.
Delightful little towns and villages abound, each with its own personality and claim to fame. Take time to visit as many as possible—Bakersville, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone, Burnsville, Elkin, Elk Park, Linville, Little Switzerland, Newland, Pineola, Seven Devils, Spruce Pine, Valle Crucis, Vilas and West Jefferson in North Carolina; Abingdon and Damascus in Virginia; and Butler, Elizabethton, Mountain City and Roan Mountain in Tennessee, just to name some of the areas we cover in CML
You’ll find information on other spring happenings elsewhere in the magazine, including in our Cultural Calendar, Art Remarks, and Trail Reports. To see all events taking place in NC as part of our country’s America250 celebration, visit events.dncr. nc.gov/A250NC. — Compiled by Karen Rieley
April
Mayland Earth to Sky Park April through June in Burnsville, NC
In addition to ongoing community stargazing opportunities at Bare Dark Sky Observatory, Mayland Community College’s Earth to Sky Park hosts a variety of educational and fun events for the whole family. From laser light shows to other special visual presentations, there’s something for everyone this spring. Families will enjoy showings of “James Webb Space Telescope: The Story Unfolds” to discover the furthermost reaches of the universe as revealed by the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful telescope ever built.
New shows will be slated throughout the season. Check out their calendar: www. mayland.edu/sky-to-sky-park-calendar/ and find additional information at mayland.edu/ esp and facebook.com/EarthToSkyPark.
Local Farmers’ Markets | Early April through June, throughout the region
Discover the vibrant colors and flavors at your local farmers’ markets! Enjoy fresh produce and unique artisan goods, support our local growers, and connect with your community at one of High Country’s many Farmers’ Markets throughout the region. See the article and our Farmers’ Market directory, beginning on page 118.
First Friday Art Crawls | Year-round 5 to 8 p.m., at Appalachian State University’s Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, and all over downtown Boone, NC
Every First Friday of the month, downtown Boone comes alive with creativity, community, and celebration! Throughout town, explore captivating galleries featuring contemporary art exhibitions, meet local artists, attend gallery receptions, enjoy live music and more. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for an inspiring night out, the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts is the perfect place to start your First Friday Art Crawl adventure. Tcva.org,watauga-arts.org/first-friday-artcrawls
April Earth Day Celebration Art Crawl
April 17, 5 to 8 p.m., at the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, and throughout downtown Boone, NC
In April, downtown Boone participates in this special Earth Day-focused edition of Art Crawl! Head to the Turchin Center for ARTtalk as Gretchen Ernster Henderson presents “Dear Body of Water” at 5 p.m. in the TCVA Lecture Hall. Other First Friday Art Crawls are held May 1, June 5 and July 2, 5 to 8 p.m. at the Jones House, The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts and other locations.
BuildFest | April 18, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Watauga County High School, 300 Go Pioneers Drive, Boone, NC
The Children’s Playhouse BuildFest is a free community event featuring more than 80 hands-on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) activities for kids aged 2-12, a giant Cardboard City for kids 5 and up, Tiny Town for kids under 5, Touch a
Arthur Planetarium at Mayland Earth to Sky Park
Local Farmers’ Markets
First Friday Art Crawls, Downtown Boone
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Truck, the Amazing Science Show and much, much more. Plan to stay for at least two hours to explore zones spread out over two gyms, the commons and outside at Watauga High School. The Family Resource Village offers activities for babies and toddlers and useful information for parents. Other zones include Adventures in Force and Motion, Builders Burg, Gravity Alley, the Arts District, Science Central, and more. For families with sensory sensitivities, noise-reducing headphones and a “Calm Down Corner” room adjacent to the action are available. There is lowered lighting during the opening hour from 9 to 10 a.m. goplayhouse.org/buildfest
Earth to Elkin | Earth Day
April 18 in Elkin, NC
On the third Saturday in April, a special Earth Day event is taking place in Elkin, a town along the Yadkin River. Earth to Elkin returns on Saturday, April 18, as a communitywide celebration of the town’s natural beauty and commitment to sustainability. The day features hands-on activities focused on environmental stewardship, including citizen science hikes with bird counts and water testing, educational demos like composting and native gardening and the town’s “Litterally Free” clean up. The celebration wraps up with an Earth Rally from 4–8 p.m. outside at the Yadkin Valley Heritage & Trails Visitor Center, featuring local conservation groups, food trucks, local beer and wine, and live music. exploreelkin.com/earthtoelkin
Merlefest
April 23-26 in Wilkesboro, NC
Taking place on the campus of Wilkes Community College (WCC), MerleFest is
a celebration of “traditional plus” music, a unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian region, including old-time, classic country, bluegrass, folk and gospel, and blues, and expanded to include Americana, classic rock, and many other styles. The festival hosts a diverse collection of artists on its 12 stages during the course of the multi-day event. MerleFest is the primary fundraiser for the WCC Foundation, funding scholarships, capital projects, and other educational needs. Find out more about the history of the event, the full lineup of artists, and other festival details and access a ticket link at Merlefest.org.
An Evening of Comedy and Magic Saturdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at 737 W King St, Boone, NC
Carolina Comedy Magic Parlor delivers an intimate and unforgettable evening of magic and laughter, with limited seating. Step into a cozy parlor-style theater where every seat is the best seat in the house. Featuring magician Lyndy Phillips, you’ll be amazed by his masterful sleight of hand and delighted by his witty, clean humor, creating an immersive experience that blends comedy and wonder. “Boone’s destination for laughter, astonishment, and pure live entertainment.” Located downtown inside Mysterium Escape Adventure. www.carolinamagicparlor.com
4th Annual Life on the Homefront
April 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Museum of Ashe County History, 301 East Main Street in Jefferson, NC
This free event is brought to life by members of The Friends of the 40s, a living history organization to educate the public about
civilian life during World War II. Visitors can chat with reenactors and view several displays on topics ranging from civilian defense and air raid wardens to volunteer nurse aides, scrap drives, women factory workers and more. Members of A Walk in Their Boots offer a World War II-era recruitment station and military display. In the event of rain, activities will be moved inside the museum. For more information about these events, call 336846-1904, or visit ashehistory.org/events/ friendsofthe40smuseum.
Fire on the Mountain Blacksmith Festival
April 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Spruce Pine Main Street, 164 Locust, Spruce Pine, NC
Join blacksmiths and blacksmithing enthusiasts for this free annual celebration of the art of the blacksmith in downtown Spruce Pine. The event is a partnership between Spruce Pine Main Street, Penland School of Craft, and the Toe River Arts. Participants will enjoy blacksmith demonstrations, blacksmith vendor booths, a youth and adult forge-off, a hands-on tent, great food and more. For a full schedule of events, visit discoversprucepinenc. com/fireonthemountain and on Facebook: FireOnTheMountainFestival.
Mule Days at Leatherwood Mountains Resort | April 28 to May 3, at 512 Meadow Road in Ferguson, NC
This fun, family-oriented event features 125 mules and donkeys and people from 10 different states. Enjoy the free-to-audit/ watch Ty Evans Mules Clinic, and a coloring contest for all ages, with ribbons awarded on Saturday evening. Friday night is the popular Coon Jump Competition. Following
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Mule Days at Leatherwood Mountains Resort
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the competition, Leatherwood’s restaurant is open for a full dinner and free live music. Several competitions are held throughout Saturday followed by a parade through Leatherwood. On Saturday evening, enjoy a ticketed celebration dinner with awards. Other events include trail obstacle competitions, tack swap, costume contest, fundraising silent auction, prizes and drawings, kids’ activities, shopping, tons of trail riding, gift shopping and more! For camping, stall, cabin and mule celebration dinner reservations call (336) 9735044 or visit leatherwoodmountains.com or facebook.com/muledaysatleatherwood/.
May
Beech Mountain Happenings | May through June in the Town of Beech Mountain and Beech Mountain Resort, NC
Sandwiched between winter’s snows and skiing crowds, and summer’s cool breezes and vacationing families, experience the natural world as it awakens from a winter’s sleep.
The town of Beech Mountain is famed for the abundant wildlife that lives in communion with man here. Spring is the time to see mother deer with their young, trout filling the streams, birds migrating along the NC Birding Trail, and maybe even a shy bear or two. Get outdoors with a wide range of outdoor experiences for all ages.
May is Beech Mountain’s Hike on Month with a full slate of activities and entertainment all season long. Hikers can take in waterfalls, wildlife, and wildflowers. See Trail Reports on page 76 for more details.
On May 21, the Beech Mountain History Museum reopens, with displays on the Cherokees; logging, milling and railroads on the mountain; early skiing and the creation of Ski Beech resort; the Land of Oz amusement park; local storytelling legend Ray Hicks; and mountain music makers (beechmtn.com/visit/ beech-mountain-history-museum/).
Over at Beech Mountain Resort, enjoy scenic lift rides, mountain biking, disc golf, live music, and more when the resort opens for the spring/summer season on Saturday, May 23. For a complete list of Beech Mountain events, visit beechmtn.com and beechmountainresort. com
Youth Makers Markets
May through June in Boone, NC
Empowering our next generation of artists, Youth Makers Markets provide opportunities for young people to sell their artworks on the second and fourth Saturday of each month, May through October. In addition to the Watauga Farmers’ Market, they also serve as vendors at the First Friday Art Crawl each month and at other events throughout the year. Youth must be registered to participate. watauga-arts.org/youth-makers-markets
NC Fried Apple Pie Festival
May 1 to 2 in Sparta, NC
The 4th annual Fried Apple Pie Festival begins on Friday, May 1 at 5 p.m., and continues on Saturday, May 2, at 9 a.m. Music, entertainment for kids, a baking contest, an eating contest and lots of family fun are in store. This year, organizers are partnering with the Alleghany Historical Society to pay tribute to Terry Choate, the county’s own grammy
winning native son. Visit a special exhibit, “Terry Choate—The Man Behind the Music,” at the Alleghany Historical Museum. Facebook. com/NCFriedApplePieFestival/
YMCA Healthy Kids Day®
May 2 at Williams YMCA of Avery County in Linville, NC
The Williams YMCA of Avery County will host the Y’s annual Healthy Kids Day® on May 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Blackburn Athletic Facility. This free, annual event features a variety of family-friendly activities to encourage healthy kids, healthy families and a healthy start to the summer season.
“At the Y, we believe in providing resources for families to create healthy habits, no matter the time of year,” said Mollie Allen, Association Youth Development Director. “Healthy Kids Day is a fun, free community-wide event that encourages families to take advantage of all the great resources at the Y and other local organizations available to them.”
Sponsored nationally by Peanuts and Gatorade, Healthy Kids Day features Block Fest®, a magician, inflatables, food trucks, and various community resource vendors. For more information, contact the Y at 828-7375500 and visit www.ymcaavery.com
46th Annual Blowing Rock Trout Derby
May 2, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., starting at 173 Lakeside Drive in Blowing Rock, NC
Presented by The Speckled Trout Outfitters, this popular outdoor event features some of the best trout fishing in the Southeast. Fishers are invited to show off their catch from public water in Watauga, Ashe, and Avery counties during this friendly annual
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Yadkin Valley Wine Festival Fiber Frolic at Hickory Ridge History Museum Blowing Rock Trout Derby
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competition. Kids 16 and under are also invited to draw their best trout for a chance to be included on next year’s poster and t-shirt. Art activities take place at The Speckled Trout Outfitters, 916 Main Street in Blowing Rock. blowingrock.com/troutderby
Girls on the Run 5K
May 3, at Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences – Greenway Trail, 1179 State Farm Road in Boone, NC
The Girls on the Run of the High Country 5K is celebrated twice each year as the culminating event in the 10-week GOTR curriculum. This event is open to everyone— seasoned runners chasing a Personal Record, families pushing strollers, first-time 5K participants, and enthusiastic cheer squads. Whether you run, walk, skip, or hop, every step forward supports programs that inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident. Prior to the 2 p.m. run, participate in fun warm-up activities for the entire family. Learn more about the organization, event registration, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to support GOTR at appwell.appstate.edu/ outreach/exercise-nutrition/gotr/5k/ and also at facebook.com/GOTRHighCountry.
Fifth Annual Fiber Frolic at Hickory Ridge History Museum | May 16, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 591 Horn in the West Dr., Boone, NC
Get ready for a day filled with fiber fun, including exciting activities like spinning demonstrations and wool carding. Whether you’re a seasoned fiber enthusiast or just curious to learn more, Fiber Frolic at Hickory Ridge is the perfect opportunity to come together with fellow fiber lovers and celebrate
all things fiber. This free family-friendly event is perfect for all ages. horninthewest.com/ tours-events/fourth-annual-fiber-frolic-athickory-ridge-history-museum
Yadkin Valley Wine Festival
May 16 in Elkin, NC
Nestled in the heart of the Yadkin Valley, the 23rd Annual Yadkin Valley Wine Festival is a casual outdoor celebration of local flavor and community spirit. Held in the charming small town of Elkin, this lively event features over 15 Yadkin Valley wineries, each offering tastings of their unique, award-winning wines.
Guests can sip and stroll through a relaxed, scenic setting filled with delicious food trucks, local craft vendors, and live music throughout the day. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with friends, the festival offers a perfect blend of great wine, great food, and small-town hospitality, surrounded by the beauty of North Carolina’s wine country. YadkinValleyWineFestival.com
Blowing Rock Art in the Park | May 16 & June 13 in downtown Blowing Rock, NC
Celebrating over six decades of shows, Art in the Park is host to nearly 100 artisans at each of their six monthly shows. Artists’ tents extend along Park Avenue, from Main Street to Wallingford Street. Held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, rain or shine, each curated show features a variety of mediums—from fine art and furniture to jewelry and textiles—and a free shuttle runs continuously from Shoppes on the Parkway to Park Avenue, making it easy to enjoy the event and explore town. Spring dates are May 16 and June 13, with additional 2026 dates to include: July 25, August 15, September 12 and October 3. blowingrock.com/artinthepark/
Mile High Kite Festival | May 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Beech Mountain, NC
Located at more than 5,000 feet in elevation, the town meadow is the perfect place for children of all ages to sail their kites up to a mile above sea level. On the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend, Mile High Kite Festival, produced by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, includes demonstrations by professional kite flyers. Free kits are available for the first 300 kids (12 and under). Others are encouraged to bring their own kites, along with chairs and blankets to sit on while admiring the kites flying above. Food vendors will be at the festival, and great restaurants—including Fred’s Backside Deli at Fred’s General Mercantile—are nearby. Dress in layers and wear sunscreen. Beechmtn.com, averycounty.com
Memorial Day Weekend at Sugar Mountain
May 23-24 in Sugar Mountain, NC
In addition to an assortment of great food, the Sugar Mountain Food Truck Festival on May 23, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., features chair lift rides, the mountain bike park, yard games, live music and more. The Lucky Strikes perform from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Classic Highway performs from 2 to 5 p.m. Sample fare from a variety of popular food trucks. skisugar.com/ foodtruck/
Visitors to Sugar Mountain Resort will enjoy Bike Park & Scenic Chairlift Rides for the entire Memorial Day weekend from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Rides aboard the Summit Express shuttle bikers and foot-passengers to the mountain’s peak, and the Easy Street lift services a beginner-level gravity skills trail for
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Blowing Rock Art in the Park
Bike Park & Chairlift Rides at Sugar Mountain
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bikers only. After the special Memorial Day weekend, the bike park resumes rides during the Fourth of July weekend. skisugar.com/ bikepark/ Sugar Mountain’s Grillin’ and Chillin’ Live Music and Dinner Series begins on Memorial Day weekend, and then every Wednesday, June-August, and on Labor Day, at Sugar Mountain’s Golf and Tennis Club House Deck. Wear your dancing shoes! Seating is also available inside and all events happen rain or shine (seesugar.com/summer-concerts/) Visit SeeSugar.com and Skisugar.com for all the spring happenings at Sugar Mountain!
Art on the Greene | May 23-24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in downtown Banner Elk, NC
Beginning with Memorial Day weekend, Banner Elk’s annual Art on the Greene series features art festivals on four weekends of late spring and summer. The shows fill the area in front of the Historic Banner Elk School 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 the outdoor tents. And BE Artists Gallery, a co-op representing over 30 local artists, will be open inside the Historic Banner Elk School. The artwork is complemented by the beautiful setting located right in the middle of downtown Banner Elk, where you can also visit restaurants and retail shops.
Other shows in the series include Fourth of July weekend, July 4-5; August Days, August 1-2, and Labor Day weekend, September 5-6. townofbannerelk.org/art-on-the-greene/ Booth rental proceeds from Art on the Greene go toward preservation of the Historic
Banner Elk School, which is maintained by the Town of Banner Elk. The 1939 rockwork school is home to the BE Artists Gallery, Banner Elk Book Exchange, Ensemble Stage professional theater, CML Magazine, Playful Heart yoga studio, and Common Ground (affiliated with Lees-McRae). Bannerelk.com
44th New River Canoe Race
May 30, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Jefferson, NC
Hosted by the New River Conservancy— after a hiatus due to hurricane Helene — paddlers will gather at Zaloo’s Canoes to begin the popular race. This Ashe County tradition is sponsored by generous donations from community sponsors, with proceeds supporting ongoing restoration work and river clean ups in North Carolina being done by the New River Conservancy.
Whether you compete, float for fun, or just spectate, come enjoy a beautiful day on the banks of the New River. Bring your own canoe or kayak, or rent one from Zaloo’s for a discounted rate. Zaloo’s also provides a free shuttle on the day of the race. The average time for new paddlers on this 5-mile stretch of river is around one hour. Many contestants with advanced skills have completed the race in less than 45 minutes. The race will take place rain or shine! newriverconservancy.org/ event/44th-new-river-canoe-ra/
Storytelling Contest with Orville Hicks
May 30, 12 to 3 p.m., at Hickory Ridge Living History Museum in Boone, NC
Discover the beautiful tradition of Appalachian storytelling with a special afternoon featuring legendary storyteller Orville Hicks. Known for his mesmerizing
way with words and deep roots in mountain folklore, Orville will share classic Jack Tales and other local legends that have been passed down for generations. Following the performance, guests take to the stage in a Tall Tale Contest. “Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or just want to try your hand at spinning a wild yarn, this is your chance to showcase your creativity. The taller the tale, the better!” horninthewest.com
June
Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show 2026 — Saddlebred | June 4-7 at the L. M. Tate Horse Show Grounds at Broyhill Equestrian Preserve, Blowing Rock, NC
The Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show is one of the oldest horse show events in the country and has been a Blowing Rock tradition since 1923. The Saddlebred Show on June 4-7 exhibits Three and Five Gaited Open Championship classes, the Roadster classes, shown both under saddle and in harness, plus the Fine Harness division. Enjoy the flash, grace, and electric atmosphere of this classic show. brchs.org/broyhill-preserve/
Daniel Boone Day at Hickory Ridge History Museum
June 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 591 Horn in the West Drive, Boone, NC
Step back in time and celebrate National Daniel Boone Day in the town that bears his name! The event features hands-on history, historical interpreters, and colonial craft demonstrations that bring the 18th century to life. Experience life on the frontier with guided
Art on the Greene, Banner Elk
Storytelling with Orville Hicks at the Hickory Ridge History Museum
The Coolest Corner Ashe Bash
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tours of the museum’s six historic cabins; traditional skills like blacksmithing, hearth cooking, and wool spinning; and tomahawk throwing. Perfect for history lovers of all ages, Dan’l Boone Day offers a unique opportunity to learn about Boone’s legacy, Appalachian traditions and the daily life of early settlers. horninthewest.com/tours-events/danl-booneday-at-hickory-ridge-history-museum
Ashe County America 250th Celebration
June 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Museum of Ashe County History, Jefferson, NC
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States on the grounds of the Museum of Ashe County History. With free events planned throughout the morning and midday to celebrate, learn, and reflect, visitors will have the opportunity to chat with living historians about the American Revolution, see craft demonstrations, enjoy children’s activities, and listen to historic lectures. A special pop-up exhibit about the Battle of Kings Mountain, courtesy of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, will also be available for viewing.
At 11 a.m. members of the Daniel Boone Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be reading a portion of the Declaration of Independence. At 1 p.m. historian and author Michael C. Hardy will give a lecture on his newest book, “Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee in the American Revolution.”
This event is FREE and open to the public—the Museum is located at 301 E. Main Street in Jefferson, NC. For more information, call (336) 846-1904. In the event of rain, the celebration will be moved inside the museum. ashehistory.org/events/asheamerica250th
The Coolest Corner Ashe Bash
June 6 in Jefferson, NC
The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce sponsors this free, family-friendly musical celebration for High Country residents and visitors to the region. The sixth annual event will be held at the Ashe County Government Complex, located above Bojangles in Jefferson (150 Government Circle), and features the Krüger Brothers and Fireside Collective. A variety of food vendors will serve treats on-site beginning at 5 p.m., with music beginning at 6 p.m. Free shuttles provide easy transportation from off-site lots. Guests are invited to bring a chair; no alcohol or pets allowed. Visit ashechamber.com/ashe-bash. php to learn more.
Apple Hill Farm Alpaca Shearing Day
June 6, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in Banner Elk, NC
All are welcome, but reservations are required for this unique and popular event at Apple Hill Farm in Banner Elk. Your pass allows you to get a front row seat to observe alpaca shearing! Tour guides will answer questions about alpacas and the shearing process. You’ll also be able to browse through the Farm Store, where yarn and socks made from the farm’s own alpaca fiber, as well as a large selection of other gifts, are sold.
The farm is home to nine species of animals, including alpacas, llamas, goats, mini-cows and more. On Shearing Day, your family can take a guided walking tour and learn about all the animals that live and play at Apple Hill Farm. applehillfarmnc.com
Spring Home Show
June 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 165 Morris Street in Blowing Rock, NC
The Third Annual Spring Home Show, presented by Peak Sanitation, will showcase the latest in residential home services, providing inspiration and resources for homeowners and home builders. The Spring Home Show will feature a wide array of exhibitors, including local businesses and national brands, offering everything from interior design and landscaping to home improvement and living solutions. “Are you renovating, building from the ground up, or simply in need of expert advice? This event is your one-stop shop for all things home! Meet skilled professionals, explore the latest trends, and get inspired for your next project.” loveblowingrock.com/eventcalendar/chamberevents
Boonerang | June 19-21 in Boone, NC
Each year, Boonerang Music & Arts Festival celebrates Boone, NC, with a free downtown street festival. This community homecoming brings Boone-linked musical artists and fans together every third weekend in June and includes multiple concert stages throughout downtown Boone. At the Artist Market, local nonprofits and vendors showcase handmade crafts, pottery, textiles, artwork, photography, jewelry, apparel, home décor, personal care items, food products, and more. Enjoy numerous food and beverage options, a Kids Zone, a “Silent Disco,” a Vintage Market, and Boonerang International, with musical and dance performances from international musicians. For a complete schedule and more details, visit boonerangfest.com
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Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show, photo courtesy BRCHS Spring Home Show Blowing Rock
Boonerang
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NC Rhododendron Festival
June 19-20 in Bakersville, NC
The NC Rhododendron Festival is in its 79th year, drawing hundreds of visitors from all over the region. The event features the Rhododendron Festival Pageant, a Craft Fair, food vendors, children’s activities, and live music throughout the day, as well as a classic car show! On Friday and Saturday nights during the Festival, grab your partner and your friends for the Rhododendron Square Dance on Main Street in downtown Bakersville. Festival hours and details at ncrhododendronfestival.org.
Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival
June 20-21 in Roan Mountain, TN
The Roan Mountain Citizens Club presents their 79th Rhododendron Festival at Roan Mountain State Park, located at the foot of Roan Mountain. The annual festival heralds in the blooming of the famous Catawba Rhododendron along the highlands of the Roan. You’ll find handmade crafts, food, and a variety of traditional music, plus demonstrations of old-time traditions. The world’s largest natural rhododendron gardens grow atop 6,000-ft Roan Mountain and the shrubs are in peak bloom during late June. You can also hike the Appalachian Trail that runs along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. roanmountain.com/rhododendronfestival/
Avery County Heritage Festival
June 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., in Newland, NC
Hosted by the Avery County Historical Society, the Avery County Heritage Festival celebrates this area and its unique history. “On
the Square” in downtown Newland (Schultz Circle), you’ll find craftspeople, genealogists, authors, performers and plenty of fun. Share family genealogy and cultural traditions that are part of Avery County’s identity. The Heritage Festival is free, and the event includes craft and food vendors, plus a full lineup of musicians and cloggers. averycountymuseum. org/heritage-festival/
While you’re there, step inside the Avery County Museum, located in the old Avery County Jail building, where you’ll find displays of local artifacts and memorabilia from the area as well as an extensive reference library for researchers to use, free of charge, to work on their genealogies. Outside, view the old train depot and caboose. The Avery County Historical Society operates the museum and sponsors events throughout the year— they also recently worked in cooperation with the America 250 Committee to acquire the impressive Revolutionary War Mural painted on the Newland Town Hall building. averycounty.com/directory/avery-countyhistorical-museum/
July
Sugar Mountain Summit Crawl
July 4 at Sugar Mountain Resort, NC
The Sugar Mountain Resort Summit Crawl is a fun and competitive event in which participants run, hike, climb, or crawl from the ski lodge to Sugar Mountain’s 5,300-foot peak by way of the grassy slopes. skisugar.com/ crawl/
Independence Day Celebrations
July 4 throughout the Region
The High Country celebrates America250 with parades, fireworks, kids’ activities, fun runs, food, beverages, live music, history displays and more! Find links to our area’s Chambers of Commerce, TDAs and Visitor Centers at cmlmagazine. online. Be sure to pick up our Summer issue in late June for more details!
Christmas in July Festival
July 3-4 in West Jefferson, NC
Now in its 38th year, this free festival in the heart of downtown West Jefferson celebrates the Christmas tree industry and mountain heritage with arts, crafts, local entertainers, traditional mountain music, food and family fun. A large stage in the middle of downtown West Jefferson is the hub for several excellent bands. Throughout Saturday, the Ashe County Arts Council hosts children’s activities, performers rove the streets showcasing their magical talents, music and storytelling continues, and Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive straight from the North Pole. Ashe County’s longest-running festival is organized by a dedicated team of volunteers who prioritize a fun, safe, and family-friendly experience for the community and visitors to Ashe County. For more information on the music lineup, food vendors, and updates on the festival, follow the festival organizers on Facebook: Christmas In July Festival or visit christmasinjulyfestival.com
NC Rhododendron Festival in Bakersville
Alpaca Shearing at Apple Hill Farm
Christmas in July Festival, West Jefferson
HAPPENINGS | REGIONAL HAPPENINGS
70th Annual Grandfather Mountain
Highland Games | July 9-12 in Linville, NC
The sounds of bagpipes, the spirit of competition, the scents of favorite foods, and the brilliant colors of Scottish tartans return to MacRae Meadows in Linville, NC, for the annual gathering and games—now in its 70th year! Sample Scottish music, dancing, food, costumes, field games, sheep herding and much more. Celebrate our area’s Scottish ancestry and culture, and cheer as you watch the clans compete. Tradition and camaraderie are tightly woven into this festive annual event, with participants traveling from across the country and world to attend; you’ll want to plan ahead to enjoy all the Highland Games has to offer.
Following is a quick preview of regularly scheduled events—please visit gmhg.org for complete details and updates.
Thursday, July 9
• Children’s field games and clinics
• MacRae Meadows open
• Scottish entertainment with traditional Celtic music, plus sheep dog demonstrations (throughout the weekend), whisky tasting, and more
• Opening Torchlight Ceremony announcing each participating Clan’s arrival to the Games; Piping & Drumming performance
Friday, July 10
• Preliminary athletic competitions, sheep dog demonstrations, and music/dancing exhibitions
• Celtic Groves open, and other music, history and food-related activities highlight the day
• Children’s athletic competitions; cultural activities
• Friday Night Celtic Rock Concert at MacRae Meadows
Saturday, July 11
• Amateur heavy athletic qualifying begins; competition begins for Highland Dancing Atlantic International Championship; piping, drumming, harp playing, Scottish athletic events, track & field events, sheep dog demonstrations, Scottish country dancing, Scottish fiddling, Scottish harp, Celtic Groves entertainment, Massed Bands performance, and other cultural activities
• Saturday Night Celtic Jam Concert at MacRae Meadows
Sunday, July 12
• Scottish Heavy Athletic Demonstration & Clinic, Highland Dancing competition
• Worship Service & Kirkin’ of the Tartan
• Parade of Tartans, Guests of Honor & Distinguished Guests are introduced as all members of the sponsoring clans are invited to march in the parade
• Highland Dance Championship
Competition, Scottish athletic events, sheep dog demonstrations, kilted miles, children’s events, Scottish country dancing, Scottish fiddles and harps, piping competitions, Clan Tugs-of-War, Celtic Grove entertainment, history and cultural activities
• Closing Ceremonies
For tickets, maps, and information on lodging, parking and shuttle buses, visit the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games website at gmhg.org. And be sure to pick up the summer issue of CML for additional highlights of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.
Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Clan Representatives, photo by James J. Shaffer, courtesy GMHG
Photo by James J. Shaffer
Courtesy of GMHG
Courtesy of GMHG
Photo by James J. Shaffer
Spring Into Smarter Savings
Comfort at home doesn’t have to mean high costs. Here are a few tips to help you SAVE!
Install a programmable HVAC thermostat.
Turn off lights that aren’t being used.
Wash dishes and clothes in cold water.
Replace your air filters regularly, about every two months.
On sunny days keep your curtains drawn.
Wait until your dishwasher is full before starting a wash cycle.
Prep meals for the week and store leftovers in the freezer.
Bake with glass or ceramic pans.
Don’t peek in the oven while baking! (also a good baking tip!)
Unplug devices such as phone chargers and tablets when not in use.
Hayes Auditorium, Broyhill Theatre
All performances begin at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
2026 Season forummusicseries.com
Aria Noveau
Classical crossover, Broadway, and timeless popular music
June 15
Decades in Duets Greatest duets in modern music
June 22
The Stranger A Tribute to Billy Joel
June 29
Western Piedmont Symphony
July 6
Stevie Mac Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
July 13
Southern Cross Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young
July 20
Electric Light Orchestra Featuring Evil Woman
July 27
Margaritas in Paradise Tribute to Jimmy Buffet
August 3
Cultural Calendar Blossoms Onstage This Spring
By Keith Martin
High Country Welcomes Locals and Visitors with Dozens of Shows
Spring is often associated with the arts, symbolizing new beginnings and creative expression. It also marks a sharp uptick in visitors, destination travelers, and cultural tourists who are here specifically for arts and live music events (see sidebar on “Festival Season”). This fact is confirmed by Explore Boone, who uses geolocation data to track the number of sightseers and occupancy tax figures to calculate overnight guests. Welcome, one and all, and thanks for picking up CML, your guide to “the heart and soul of the High Country.”
Another resource we highly recommend is the High Country Arts Map, an indispensable publication of the Watauga Arts Council available free of charge at their Shadowline Drive offices in Boone or downloadable from their website at HighCountryArts.org. This issue we kick-off the celebration of America 250 with select performing arts events featured throughout the year supported by the state organizations NC250, TN250, and VA250, along with additional programs by individual companies.
Here are dozens of shows that have been announced from now through mid-June, plus a sneak peek at select summer offerings, each listed alphabetically by producing company, with more to be announced shortly. 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.
See you at the theatre!
The APPALACHIAN THEATRE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY (ATHC) is hosting their second Boonerang Battle of the Bands on April 16 during which selected bands perform in one of two showcases with the winners of each battle receiving a $500 cash prize and an invitation to perform in a paid spot at the 2026 festival, taking place June 19 - 21 on twelve different stages and venues in downtown Boone. Please go to our Regional Happenings and Music Guide in this issue for more info or visit BoonerangFest.com. May 1 marks the return of the International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4), the ultimate celebration of fly-fishing culture, featuring a curated collection of world-class films and cinematic storytelling from independent filmmakers around the globe. On May 3 and 4, science fiction fans will gather for both Star Wars and May the Fourth (be with you) movie marathons with all three films in the original trilogy screened on consecutive days.
Landon Talks: An Evening of Southern Stories and Laughter brings Landon Bryant to the Doc Watson stage on May 19. A Southern storyteller raised in Mississippi with a large, loyal, and growing following across social media, Landon is a comedian, digital entertainer, and the author of Bless Your Heart: A Field Guide to All Things Southern and ‹Twas the Night Before Christmas, Y›all. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Southern Living, Garden and Gun, ABC News, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and beyond. On June 18, the theatre is hosting their first NC250 event Speaking of Freedom: The Journey to Juneteenth, a community celebration that traces the journey through the words of historical figures, storytelling narrative, music and song. AppTheatre.org
The ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL in West Jefferson has programmed several events worthy of consideration. On April 19, the Terra String Quartet perform at the Ashe Arts Center. Recent prizewinners at the Bordeaux and Wigmore Hall International Quartet Competitions, the NYC-based group “combines technical brilliance with heartfelt storytelling, bringing a fresh and deeply human approach.” The popular Southern Squares Country Dance Series has three dates scheduled at the Arts Center on May 28, June 25, and July 23. 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.
On May 22, the Ashe Community Singers present a free spring concert featuring choral classics celebrating American stories in honor of America 250. This season’s repertoire explores a diverse range of American musical traditions, blending choral classics with folk music, gospel, spirituals, and more. Saloon Studios has several noteworthy events on the calendar, including Shoot to Thrill with Black Market Conspiracy on May 30, Second Helping with CJ Ballard on June 20, followed by Hollywood Nights with Those 3 Guys on June 26, all in the Old West Town on Old West Road in West Jefferson. AsheCountyArts.org
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Savannah Sipping Society
Barter
CULTURAL CALENDAR
Be sure to wear green attending the ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE 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 in the Ashe Civic Center. AsheCountyLittleTheatre.org
At the BARTER THEATRE in Abingdon, VA, audience favorite Always… Patsy Cline opens April 17 with performances through May 10. Author Ted Swindley’s musical is based on a true story that celebrates the life and career of the country music legend as told through the eyes of her biggest fan and unlikely friend, Lousie Seger, complete with many of her unforgettable hits. Two shows alternate on the Gilliam Stage beginning on May 23 when The da Vinci Code begins performances. Adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel from Dan Brown’s novel wherein Professor Robert Langdon is called to the Louvre Art Museum in the dead of night and unwittingly becomes the center of a murder investigation. When cryptologist Sophie Neveu arrives at the scene, she alerts Robert that not only is he being asked to solve the crime, he’s also the prime suspect. Opening June 9 is Frank Loesser’s classic Guys and Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway, based on a story and characters by Damon Runyon with book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows. The show 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.”
Across the street in the Smith Theatre, actor/playwright Jeff Daniels’ Pickleball continues through April 26. In America’s fastest-growing game, there’s no place for apologies or excuses, but there is a lot of room for comedy. When four below-average players have an opportunity to compete in a local tournament, they must learn to overcome their limitations and dig deep to find the greatness that lies within. The Savannah Sipping Society opens May 12 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. Over the next six months, with the help of several hilarious misadventures and the occasional liquid refreshment, these ladies discover that it’s never too late to make new old friends.
BarterTheatre.com
BARTER PLAYERS classic theatre for “Kids of All Ages” has two family-friendly shows on tap this spring with Peter Pan performing through May 12 on the Gilliam Stage. In this adaptation by Catherine Bush from the novel by J. M. Barrie, Wendy and her brothers love to play make-believe in their nursery. Then one night, a young boy named Peter Pan and his fairy friend Tinkerbell fly into the nursery window and whisk them away to a Neverland filled with Lost Boys, pirates, and a man-eating crocodile. Brought thrillingly to life with six quick-changing actors, the Barter Players make this an adventure you will never forget. James Hendley’s adaptation of The Sword in the Stone opens June 9 in the Smith Theatre. 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? Join Arthur and his mentor, the wizard Merlin, on a series of adventures where they face magical beasts and powerful knights as Arthur learns what it truly means to be king. BarterTheatre.com
Two offerings remain on the spring schedule at the CITY OF MORGANTON MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (CoMMA) beginning April 25 with Alfreda Sings Tina. Born in Morganton, NC, Alfreda Gerard is an international singing powerhouse performing with Cher, Celine Dion, Sir Elton John, Whitney Houston, Yanni, Warren Haynes, and many others. Showcasing an incredible wealth of stage experience, Alfreda has performed shows throughout the world...and now CoMMA is bringing her back home. On June 13, The Ultimate Tribute to Bee Gees and ABBA is “a night of non-stop hits, soaring harmonies, and pure-feel good magic as two legendary tribute shows unite on stage for one spectacular night.” Whether you grew up with these songs or discovered them later, this is a dance-in-the-aisles celebration of music that defined generations with wall-to-wall hits from start to finish. CommaOnline.org
Over at EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY, the Martin Center for the Arts is bringing two Broadway national tours to their Johnson City campus beginning with Shucked from May 5-7. This Tony Award–winning musical comedy features a book
Pickelball at Barter
Terra String Quartet at Ashe Civic Center
by Tony winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the Grammy Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”) and directed by Tony winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray). It is a corn-fed, corn-bred American musical with an unlikely hero, a lovable con man, and an a-maize-ing battle for the heart and soil of Cob County.
From May 26-28, the musical SIX showcases music, book, and lyrics by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss presented in the form of a singing competition/pop concert. “From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to reclaim their identities out of the shadow of their infamous spouse, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!” ETSUMartinCenter.org
As of press time, the 18th season at ENSEMBLE STAGE has yet to be confirmed, but they have announced a summer theatre camp for ages seven through 13 from June 22-26 with a performance on the last day. Campers work together to write, direct, and perform an original play centered around the theme, “Better Together.” Through daily acting and writing workshops, costume and scenic design sessions, improvisation training, and rehearsals, campers will experience the many benefits of theatre education. EnsembleStage.com
LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE (LMC) in Banner Elk and their Performing Arts Department are producing a whimsical, musical tale for all ages titled A Year with Frog and Toad with book, music, and lyrics by Willie Reale, based on Arnold Lobel’s beloved children›s books. The plot follows two great friends—the cheerful, popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad—through four fun-filled seasons with performances from April 23 - 26 in Hayes Auditorium. LMC.edu/TheatreShows
LMC has two live performing arts series each summer including “an entertaining music series” called FORUM, with back-toback tribute concerts presented at 5 and 7:30 p.m. on Mondays from late June to early August. The early line-up includes Aria Noveau on June 15, Decades in Duets: The Greatest Duets in Modern Music on June 22, and The Stranger: A Tribute to Billy Joel on June 29. ForumMusicSeries.com
Founded in 1985, the LEES-MCRAE SUMMER THEATRE is now in its fifth decade of new and original musicals and popular
plays with four productions in 2026, beginning May 13-17 with an updated version of Moses: The Musical, with music by the father/son duo of John and Tommy Oaks, book by Janet Barton Speer, and musical direction by Nina Allbert. The show splashes onto the stage of Banner Elk Presbyterian Church with toe-tapping tunes, larger-than-life miracles, and one very reluctant hero who discovers he’s destined for something extraordinary. From June 11-16, Shrek: The Musical plays in Hayes Auditorium on the LMC campus. “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek....” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. See our summer preview section for a listing of other productions. LMC.edu/TheatreShows
MERLEFEST 2026 takes place April 23 through 26 on the campus of Wilkes Community College. Please go to our Regional Happenings and Music Guide in this issue for more info or visit MerleFest.org
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 runs from April 4 to November 1 with a variety of holiday events. Tweetsie.com
In addition to MerleFest, WILKES COMMUNITY COLLEGE (WCC) and their John A. Walker Community Center in Wilkesboro are presenting the much anticipated Are You Ready for It? A Taylor Experience on May 30, an evening that recaps the magic of Swift’s recent Eras Tour. The Do Wop Project: Old School… New Generation follows on June 12 and promises “to capture and deliver the classic sounds of the guys who, back in the day, harmonized with each other on stoops, in the subway, and on street corners.” WalkerCenterOnline.org
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Landon Bryant at App Theatre
Alfreda Sings Tina at CoMMa
SIX at ETSU’s Martin Center
A
Sneak Peek at Cultural Events in Our Upcoming Summer Issue
Space limitations and our print deadlines simply do not permit listing all the wonderful productions on the summer horizon (some announced, others yet to be confirmed), but you might want to check out the websites of the following organization for advance notice about—and to get early tickets for—these upcoming events:
CULTURAL
The expansive 42nd season of AN APPALACHIAN SUMMER FESTIVAL runs from June 27 – August 1, 2026, at various venues on the campus of Appalachian State University in Boone, opening with the Punch Brothers on June 27. Other major events include the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra on July 1, the Merz Trio on July 7, the “Empress of Soul” Gladys Knight on July 8, Straight No Chaser Beach Bash on July 10, and two chamber music performances of Windsync on July 12 including a matinee concert featuring “Peter and the Wolf.” New York City based Complexions Contemporary Ballet performs their Love Rocks program on July 16, with Broadway and television star Darren Criss appearing on July 18, followed on July 19 by The Other Mozart, an award-winning play telling the true, forgotten story of Nannerl Mozart, the sister of Amadeus. Grammy Awardwinner Rick Springfield takes to the stage on July 23. The Calidore String Quartet performs on July 29, with Aaron Diehl and The Jayhawks closing out the season on July 31 and August 1, respectively. For a full schedule, including films, music competitions, visual art events, lectures and more, visit AppSummer.org.
APPALACHIAN THEATRE will be screening several films during the summer and beyond as part of their NC250 programming, along with a July 3 performance of the Tony Award-winning musical Newsies, Jr., which culminates a two-week education and outreach initiative. AppTheatre.org
The 55th Annual Ashe County Bluegrass and Old Time Fiddlers Convention on July 24-26 celebrates, preserves, and honors traditional music with concerts, competitions, and jam sessions not to be missed by any serious lover of mountain music. AsheCountyArts.com
Several of the BARTER THEATRE’s Spring season openings continue through the summer months, with the additional shows opening on both their stages, including the brilliant and inspiring musical Come From Away on August 26, Dracula on September 10, and on September 17, Kings Mountain, a new play by Catherine Bush that is a VA250 Signature Event. Catch the Barter Players’ production of Cinderella from July 7 – August 8. BarterTheatre.com
BEANSTALK COMMUNITY THEATRE is producing SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical, based on the Nickelodeon animated television series, the weekend of July 23-25 at the Appalachian Theatre in Boone. AppTheatre.org
FORUM AT LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE continues its popular slate of tribute bands and songbook performances on July 6 with the Western Piedmont Symphony, followed by 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 Margaritas in Paradise: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffet on August 3. ForumMusicSeries.com
HORN IN THE WEST will open their 74th season of Kermit Hunter’s historical outdoor drama on June 26 with performances through mid-August. 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
From June 30 – July 5, LMC SUMMER THEATRE produces America 250, written and directed by Janet Barton Speer with musical direction by Rob Dingman. “A group of performers are putting together a show to celebrate America’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 25-31, 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. LMC.edu/SummerTheatre
Now in its 25th season and formerly an outdoor drama, 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, 2026, directed by the playwright, Karen Wheeling Reynolds. 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. WilkesPlaymakers.com
Charlotte Symphony Orchestra at An Appalachian Summer Festival Complexions
Festival Season in the High Country
By Keith Martin
We’re all familiar with the seasons winter, spring, summer, and fall, but Boone Chamber’s David Jackson offers up a fifth: “Festival Season,” beginning with MerleFest, continuing through Boonerang and the HC Jazz Festival, and concluding with An Appalachian Summer. MerleFest, Boonerang and App Summer are covered elsewhere in this issue—here, we preview the HIGH COUNTRY JAZZ FESTIVAL.
Now in its fifth season, the festival “celebrates music, community, and culture, blending big-city talent with small-town charm, where every note echoes through the Blue Ridge Mountains.” The major concerts occur from June 10–14 at the Appalachian Theatre, which partners with Boone Sunrise Rotary and App State’s Jazz Studies program to produce the event.
The June 10 opening concert features Grammy-winning saxophonist Miguel Zenón and acclaimed Venezuelan pianist Luis Perdomo joining forces to celebrate the beauty of the Latin American songbook in El Arte del Bolero. What began as an intimate duo session during the pandemic evolved into two critically acclaimed albums, including the Grammy-winning El Arte del Bolero Vol. 2. Their performances transform beloved boleros—romantic ballads rooted in Latin tradition—into soulful, forward-thinking jazz interpretations.
Spyro Gyra takes to the stage on June 12, when the festival hosts one of the most influential contemporary jazz groups of all time. For over five decades, this legendary jazz fusion band has thrilled audiences worldwide with its unique blend of jazz, R&B, Latin, and pop. Known for their Grammy-nominated albums and the smash hit Morning Dance, Spyro Gyra delivers an unforgettable live experience filled with energy, creativity, and world-class musicianship.
June 13 showcases the musical ambassador and interpreter of “America’s” music, Wycliffe Gordon, one of the world’s most renowned and award-winning jazz trombonists touring today. His signature sound and mastery of the plunger mute have helped solidify his impressive musical career. Wycliffe has recorded or been featured on over 300 recordings, has composed and arranged hundreds of compositions, including the theme song for NPR’s “All Things Considered,” and is a passionate, sought-after educator.
Jazz pianist and composer Emmet Cohen returns June 14, celebrated for his artistry and commitment to the traditions and future of jazz. A recognized prodigy, Cohen blends technical mastery with deep musical expression, performing worldwide and reaching millions online on his livestream series Live From Emmet’s Place. Cohen champions intergenerational learning through his Masters Legacy Series, with work spanning performance, education, and innovation, making him one of the most influential voices in contemporary jazz.
Festival founder Todd Wright says other events will be added, including lectures, jazz brunches/dinners, and post-performance jams at local restaurants. More info, visit HCJazzFest.org.
“Barter Day” on June 11 Benefits Virginia Food Bank
By Keith Martin
One of the things that most clearly defines any non-profit entity is their unique organizational culture. Few have a clearer sense of their mission, purpose, and values than the Barter Theatre, and that culture is most visibly on display during “Barter Day” in Abingdon, VA.
First, some background: What would become “The State Theatre of Virginia” is one of the longest-running professional theatres in America, established in early 1933 and opening on June 10 of that year. Realizing the economic hardships of the Great Depression, founder Robert Porterfield proclaimed, “With vegetables you cannot sell, you can buy a good laugh.” The price of admission was 35 cents or an equivalent amount of produce. Four out of five theatregoers paid their way with fruit, vegetables, dairy products, and livestock.
To the surprise of many, all the seats for the first show were filled. The concept of trading “ham for Hamlet” caught on quickly. At the end of the first season, the Barter cleared $4.35 in cash, two barrels of jelly, and a collective weight gain for company members of over 300 pounds.
Today, at least one performance a year pays homage to Barter’s history when the theatre accepts donations for Feeding Southwest Virginia, with non-perishable donations loaded directly onto a truck for distribution. Many consider “Barter Day” an annual birthday celebration since it takes place near the date of its founding; this season, it occurs on June 11, 2026.
Feeding Southwest Virginia nourishes neighbors across 26 counties and nine cities in the region. Since opening their doors in 1981, their aim has been to address food insecurity, and they are now the largest supplier of charitable food assistance in Southwest Virginia. Together with a network of over 320 feeding programs and the support of generous donors and volunteers, they provide millions of pounds of nourishing food to our neighbors in need. FeedingSWVA.org
As a member of the Feeding America national organization and the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, they’re part of statewide and national efforts to reduce hunger in America. But their impact stays local, distributing nearly 19 million pounds of food annually in southwest Virginia. “Of every dollar donated to support our mission, 94% directly supports our programs to get food into the hands of our neighbors of all ages to empower them for healthy, strong lives.”
To join the effort in your community, find your nearest food bank at FeedingAmerica.org.
High Country Jazz Emmet Cohen Trio
Barter Theatre founder, Robert Porterfield
The Metropolitan Opera LIVE in the High Country
By Keith Martin
“Opening doors for audiences of all ages to think and dream.”
“If the App Theatre didn’t do it . . . who would?”
Thatrefrain is heard frequently throughout the High Country when talking about the venerable 1938 Boone landmark, recently named “finest theatre in the Carolinas” by the readers of Carolina Country magazine. The art deco venue programmed 239 unique events last year.
In this case, that remark was made by the effervescent Brenda Boozer in describing the 14 Metropolitan Opera LIVE broadcasts that have been streamed in high definition at the App Theatre over the last two seasons, with at least another seven planned in year three. “The productions are international in scope,” said Boozer, “connecting three million audience members all over the world from 67 countries on six continents… and we get to join them right here in the heart of Boone!”
A Juilliard-trained vocalist, Boozer’s professional career includes over a decade as soloist at the Metropolitan Opera, with engagements at the famed Paris Opera, the Royal Opera House of London, and other companies throughout the world. Suzanne Livesay, Executive Director of the App Theatre, credits Boozer with the success of the region’s broadcasts. “She’s an avid supporter of the art form and our single biggest opera cheerleader. We wouldn’t have taken the risk without her.” 2026–27 is the 20th anniversary of the groundbreaking The Met: Live in HD transmissions, a Peabody Award–winning series. It also marks the 20th year at the helm for General Manager Peter Gelb,
who initiated the program that brings opera to cinemas worldwide. App Theatre broadcasts are chosen from the Met’s main season, which now includes five new productions, two Met premieres, 12 revivals, and 193 performances in their legendary opera house at Lincoln Center in New York. Operas sung in various foreign languages include English subtitles.
Maestro Yannick Nézet-Séguin is the Met’s music director and will conduct five productions next season. He said, “These works offer our audiences a chance to step away from the everyday, to be carried by music that speaks in different ways, and to be fully present in the moment. It’s a privilege to share these experiences with everyone.”
While the running time of each opera varies in duration from 90 minutes (Cinderella and The Magic Flute, for example) to five hours (Tristan and Isolde), Boozer notes that every live broadcast includes pre-performance information about the opera and intermissions filled with informative interviews with famous conductors, stage directors, designers, and singers, while opera historians provide invaluable background and context, along with behind the scenes footage of set changes and other backstage activities as they happen in real time.
Boozer noted that the art form in the High Country has come a long way since Mariam Cannon Hayes brought Met opera singers from New York to sing in her living room. Hayes’ historic gift to Appalachian State University endowed the School of Music that now proudly bears her name. Boozer said that “She would be
so pleased that the Met HD productions are here in Boone.”
Former Hayes School of Music Dean Dr. James Douthit and his wife Kathryn are among the many sponsors of the local broadcasts. “Kathryn and I have always loved opera. When the Met began its live cinema broadcasts, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from a streamed production of such a grand art form. But we were delighted. The broadcasts captured not only the musical excellence of the Met, but also the drama, beauty, and intimacy of the stage in ways that made the experience both immediate and accessible.
“The arts change lives,” said Professor Douthit. “Our hope is that audiences in Western North Carolina will continue to have opportunities to explore opera and experience productions at the highest artistic level. By providing sponsorship, Kathryn and I hope to open doors for students and audiences of all ages to have that opportunity to think and dream.”
Upcoming productions at the App Theatre include Tchaikovsky and Pushkin’s lyric opera Eugene Onegin on May 16, and Mozart’s singspiel The Magic Flute on May 23, which was rescheduled due to inclement weather. On May 30, El Ultimo Sueno de Frida y Diego will make the Met debut of composer Gabriela Lena Frank with libretto by Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright Nilo Cruz. It is a magicalrealist portrait of Mexico’s painterly power couple Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera and will close out the current broadcast season. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to AppTheatre.org.
The Magic Flute on Met LIVE Series
Regional Events and Venues that Feature Live Music:
The Village of Banner Elk, bannerelkvillage.com/entertainment/
Pedalin’ Pig BBQ, thepedalinpig.com
Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria, famousbrickoven.com
The Pineola, facebook.com/thepineola/events
Casa Rustica, casarustica1981.com
The Hills are Alive!
By CML Staff
Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort, chetola.com/dining-2/
Blowing Rock Brewing, facebook.com/BRBrewingCo
The Beacon, boonebeacon.com/live-music
Concerts on the Lawn/Top of the Beech Inn, beechmtn.com/series/concerts-on-the-lawn/
. . . Continued on next page
In addition to the live music opportunities mentioned throughout this issue of CML, you can enjoy countless performances at venues all over our region. Here, we provide a list of websites that you can explore to help you plan your next music- filled outing this spring. Enjoy!
CarltonGallery
Celebrating 44 Years!
Spring Group Exhibition / Contemporary Abstract Art - Exploring Individual Perceptions: May 30 thru July 15 / Opening Reception May 30, 2-5pm
Mid-Summer Group Exhibition /Landscapes Transformed - Celebrating Earth’s Beauty: July 25 thru September 15 / Opening Reception July 25, 2-5pm
Event Calendars to Consult:
High Country Host
highcountryhost.com/home | Good regional event calendar covering Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone, Sparta, Sugar Mountain, West Jefferson, and Wilkesboro.
Blue Ridge Music Trails blueridgemusicnc.com | Good calendar for music events across western North Carolina, with a focus on Americana styles like bluegrass, old-time, blues, and more.
The Coolest Corner
Ashe Bash 2026
Explore Boone exploreboone.com | Brings you the most updated list of entertainment and events, from area festivals to workshops to sporting events and nightlife. Check their calendar for all the things to do in Boone and surrounding areas during winter, spring, summer, and fall.
Chambers of Commerce — Ashe, Avery, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Boone, Beech, Morganton, Wilkes, Mitchell, Elkin, Yancey, Caldwell, Yadkin Valley, Abingdon, VA, Damascus, VA, and Johnson County, TN | Visit CMLmagazine.online and see the bottom of our CML community page for direct links to our local Chambers of Commerce and their event calendars.
Also check out Regional Happenings, Cultural Calendar, and Tidbits in this issue of CML, and sign up for our e-newsletters at CMLmagazine.online.
Make a Joyful Noise unto the Lord… on Grandfather Mountain
“Almost Heaven, Carolina, Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain. Songs of glory lifted up above. Tell the story of God’s eternal love.”
These opening lyrics, from an anonymous source, were intended to be sung to the tune of John Denver’s Take Me Home, Country Roads. It seems they were penned to echo the spirit behind the original Grandfather Mountain Gospel Music and Worship Festival called Singing on the Mountain. Like the old gospel classic, “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” worshipping through song has always found its way “unto these hills.”
Singing on the Mountain gatherings were held for nearly a century every fourth Sunday of June on Grandfather’s MacRae Meadows. They began in 1924 as an extension of a family and church picnic gathering hosted by Joe Hartley and his family. They continued and grew in popularity, attracting Christian worshipers, singers, musicians and celebrities to gather, celebrate their Christian faith, witness inspirational speakers, and sing praises to their Creator.
The annual attendance fluctuated throughout the event’s lifespan with the year 1962 seeing an estimated peak of 100,000 to 150,000. Averages often exceeded 50,000 to 60,000, and it was deemed the largest old gospel singing gathering in the entire United States.
Some of the more famous names to appear and perform during those years included the Rev. Dr. Billy Graham, Franklin Graham, Oral Roberts, Jerry Falwell, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Roy Clark, Doc Watson, Roy Acuff, Bob Hope, Fess Parker (of TV’s Davy Crockett/Daniel Boone fame), Arthur Smith, and journalist
Charles Kuralt. All were inspired by the theme and scope of the festival and its uniquely glorious setting of Grandfather Mountain.
The Covid-19 pandemic put the event on hold for 2020 and 2021. Then the Hartley family’s Singing on the Mountain Foundation announced that the 2022 event would be their last. Rising costs, the passing of generational volunteers and increasing demands for logistical support challenged their ability to maintain the event as originally structured.
But the “good news” (to borrow a kindred phrase) is that the event was recently revived under a rebranded name, Singing on Grandfather, and is back for a third year on Sunday, June 28, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. And the 2026 lineup promises to once more elevate “a joyful noise” while drawing crowds, spirit-filled musicians and celebrity names to celebrate their faith and share in the inspirational gathering.
Chairpersons of the Singing on Grandfather Foundation, Owen and Darri Gwyn, have announced an impressive lineup of special guests and performers. Along with the event’s traditional Christ-centered family church picnic, the day will include Darin and Brooke Aldridge as their headliner musical performers and Edward Graham, Chief Operating Officer of Samaritan’s Purse, as their keynote speaker. The opening prayer will be delivered by Rev. Dr. Michael McKee from Newland Presbyterian Church.
Brooke Aldridge is a four-time winner of the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) award for Female Vocalist of the Year. Darin Aldridge, who was once a member of The Country Gentlemen, is a former IBMA Mentor of the
By Steve York
Year and a truly gifted singer and multiinstrumentalist. In April 2023, the duo was named “Bluegrass Artists of the Year” at the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards. Also performing on stage will be Boone & Church, Patricia Smith and the Caldwell Men’s Chorus.
This non-denominational, non-political family event continues in its tradition of bringing Singing on Grandfather to the public free of charge. As before, that means there’s no admission charge and no ticket required to attend the full day of activities. The foundation does suggest signing up in advance for attendance to stay connected at SingingOnGrandfather.com
Organizers encourage people to spread the word via their church congregations, local community groups, and music-loving friends. Everyone is invited to bring their friends, a folding chair, a blanket and a picnic lunch. Parking is free and several food trucks will be on hand. Proceeds from TShirt sales are presented to the Crossnore Communities for Children non-profit agency, and a portion of food truck sales are donated to the Feeding Avery Families charitable food pantry. As a reminder, no alcohol and no pets are allowed, and there will be no on-site camping available.
Volunteers and interested potential event participants may contact Foundation Co-Chairperson Owen Gwyn at owengwyn@me.com. Online donations to help support these events are welcome. The Singing on Grandfather Foundation is a fully registered 501 (c)(3) tax exempt, non-profit organization with all gifts tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Details and agenda updates are available at SingingOnGrandfather.com
Singing on Grandfather
Billy Graham at the 38th Singing on the Mountain, courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
Largest Whisky Selection in
May
June
June
July
Taro Takizawa, View from the Window Seat
ART REMARKS
Art Remarks
By CML Staff
Some of the southeast region’s best art and fine (and functional) crafts can be found right here in the High Country and foothills. In addition to the visual art events listed in our Regional Happenings, including Boone’s First Friday Art Crawls, Banner Elk’s Art on the Greene, Blowing Rock’s Art in the Park, and other annual festivals that include arts and crafts, don’t miss some of the following opportunities related to our popular galleries, public art projects, and working artists.
Rotating Art Exhibits at the NWNC Visitor Center
The NWNC Visitor Center in North Wilkesboro, off Hwy 421, showcases the art of the region through bi-monthly rotating exhibits that feature local artists, photographers, potters, carvers, and quilters.
Through the end of April, see the work of artist David Haynes in his exhibit, “Church Painted Blessings,” which features over 70 churches that were affected by Hurricane Helene. Motivated by the devastation caused by the storm in western North Carolina, David Haynes set out to create works that capture the resilience and compassion of churches affected by the catastrophic flooding. His paintings not only depict churches that faced direct damage, but also those that played vital roles in supporting their communities by opening their doors for distribution, shelter, and volunteer efforts. In a heartfelt commitment to giving back, Haynes will donate a portion of the proceeds from each painting to the church portrayed, or to Samaritan’s Purse, a nonprofit organization that was instrumental in providing aid to hurricane victims. (davidhaynespaintings.com)
Beginning in July, Banner Elk photographer Joseph Nitti will display an assortment of his “extreme” photos at the Center through the end of August. Nitti is an avid adventurer and world explorer, capturing images from a different angle and perspective that he says “takes you along on a Path Less Traveled.” His photography can be seen throughout the High Country, including at Mountain Hugger Gallery, located in the old “red caboose” in downtown Banner Ek. (wonderfulworldphoto.com)
To find out more about the special exhibits on rotation at the NWNC Visitor Center, visit facebook.com/NWNCVC or call 336667-1259. 2121 East US Highway 421, North Wilkesboro, NC
On Tour Now: Watauga County Commemorative Quilt
The Watauga County commemorative quilt, “A Gathering of Voices and Visions of Freedom,” continues on a touring exhibition through July 4, visiting every school library in the county as part of the America250 NC initiative. This tour offers students a hands-on opportunity to learn about their local and national heritage. At the end of its tour, the 14-foot community-crafted quilt will be on permanent display in the Adult Services area of the Watauga County Public Library.
The project was brought to life by the Mountain Laurel Quilt Guild in partnership with the Friends of the Watauga County Public Library and was a collaboration involving local quilters, volunteers, researchers from Appalachian State’s Appalachian Studies Department, Cherokee educators, and members of the North Carolina Society DAR .
The enormous quilt features scenes representing local history, including Indigenous communities, frontiersmen, and the Battle of Kings Mountain. Stop by the Watauga County Public Library in early July and see this remarkable work of art in person. arlibrary.org/watauga
Artists in Residence at Edgewood Cottage
Heading to Blowing Rock this spring? Visit Edgewood Cottage! Charming Edgewood Cottage, the restored original home and studio of renowned American artist Elliott Daingerfield, opens its doors beginning late spring to welcome local juried artists. Each artist shows, tells and sells their art to visitors from near and far. In past years, visitors have come from multiple countries and over 30 states to enjoy local outstanding art.
What makes this experience so different? When you come to Edgewood, you’ll see many of the artists creating their art, either on the porch or inside this intimate Cottage. They look forward to meeting you, talking with you about their processes and art, and answering any questions you might have. Their work includes, but is not limited to, photography, ceramics, watercolor, acrylics, wood working, folk art, oil painting, fiber art, and drawing. Art lovers of all interests and budgets are welcome to these free open studio events.
This year, different artists will share the Cottage—two a week, every week—Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day Week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Several artists are planning
Elliott Daingerfield En Plein Air in front of Edgewood Cottage, sculpture by Brenda Councill
evening receptions from 5 - 7 p.m. Follow this months-long event on Instagram @edgewood.cottage for specific times and dates. A detailed schedule and sample artwork is also posted at artistsatedgewood.org. This Artist-in-Residence program is sponsored by the Blowing Rock Historical Society. For more information or to join the Society, go to blowingrockhistoricalsociety.com.
Neighbors in Art & Wine
Come celebrate spring with the first Neighbors in Art & Wine events of the year. Anvil Arts continues its collaboration with Linville Falls Winery so that art patrons can enjoy a curated selection of art to enjoy with wine.
The event locations alternate between the Linville Falls Winery and Anvil Arts Studio, both in Linville Falls, NC. At each event, you’ll enjoy free wine as you chat with artists. For the events held at Anvil Arts Studio, you can also wander the gardens and browse the gallery while you enjoy a selection of Linville Falls Winery wines.
Spring dates include May 2 (at the Studio), May 16 (at the Winery), June 13 (at the Winery) and June 27 (at the Studio). Find out more about each event at studiosculpture.com/news.
The Watauga Truss Project
The Watauga County Arts Council, in partnership with Blue Ridge Conservancy, has launched a visionary initiative that encourages exploration, recreation, and inspiration through the integration of public art into the natural landscape. The Public Art Corridor transforms key sections of local trail into cultural destinations, providing unique educational opportunities for residents and visitors to learn about the region’s culture, history, and environment.
One signature project for the Corridor, in progress this spring, is The Watauga Truss Project, which will preserve and repurpose a historic steel truss that was part of the hydro-electric system that provided electricity to the Town of Boone and Appalachian State University. This spring, project stakeholders are focusing on the removal and relocation of the Historic Truss and the final site selection of the art installation.
Designed by nationally recognized artist DeWitt Godfrey, the project brings together art, design, engineering, landscape, and community storytelling in a very real, place-based way. “I look
forward to further reimagining how the truss when disassembled may be recycled, reconfigured and rebuilt into a new form embodying history and marking the future,” Godfrey states.
Once installed, the sculpture will serve as a cultural gateway, symbol of resilience, and anchor for the Middle Fork Greenway at Boone Gorge Park, within a 31-acre Blue Ridge Conservancy–owned site. Project leadership is a coalition among the Watauga Arts Council (WAC), Blue Ridge Conservancy (BRC), BooneWatauga County Tourism Development Authority (TDA), Appalachian State University, Artist DeWitt Godfrey, Watauga County Parks and Recreation, and other community nonprofits. The project is scheduled for completion by next spring. wataugaarts.org, blueridgeconservancy.org
Summer Art Camps through the Watauga Arts Council
The Watauga Arts Council offers several new summer art camps for the young people in your life. Makers Camp: The Art of Nature will be offered in two sessions, each for a different age group.
The first session, running June 16-19 is for ages 5 to 7, and the second session, June 23-26, is for ages 8 to 11. These fourday camps meet for 3.5 hours each day and give students the chance to explore creativity through guided instruction, fun projects, and new skills they can continue to use in their own artistic practice outside the classroom.
The camp’s curriculum is designed to give students a chance to explore multiple artistic mediums while drawing inspiration from the natural world. Learn more about the instructors, the fun projects in store for young artists, and registration information at the Watauga Arts Council website under the “Classes and Community” tab. watauga-arts.org
Toe River Arts Celebrates 50 Years
Toe River Arts supports the arts by “imagining a brighter future where arts and community unite to thrive.” Celebrating its 50th year, Toe River Arts has worked to offer programs and activities that engage and enlighten members of the community. This year, special programming includes a variety of art camps beginning in June, and several annual events, including the June 2026 Studio Tour, running June 5 – 7.
Neighbors in Art & Wine —Artwork from Anvil Arts Studio
Toe River Arts Studio Tour Exhibit in their Spruce Pine Gallery
The Watauga Truss project
Summer Art Camp at Watauga County Arts Council
ART REMARKS
The Toe River Arts annual Studio Tour is a showcase for local artists to feature their work, processes, AND studio spaces. Along with the Studio Tour, participating artists will exhibit their work in the Spruce Pine Gallery, located at 269 Oak Avenue in Spruce Pine. Learn more about participating artists and find other tour information at toeriverarts.org
The Ashe County Arts Council Gallery Crawl
Beginning in June and running through October, enjoy the West Jefferson Arts District Gallery Crawl, held on the second Friday of each month, in historic downtown West Jefferson. Crawlers are invited to stroll the streets, visit the galleries, view the downtown murals, enjoy the many outdoor art pieces and take advantage of the downtown restaurants. Art lovers will find one-of-a-kind paintings and photography, pottery, stained glass, quilts, fiber arts, jewelry, wood turned art and much more.
Participating galleries include Ashe Arts Center, Ashe Custom Framing and Gallery, Catchlight Gallery, Doe Ridge Pottery, Florence Thomas Art School, Naked Creek FARMacy, and Originals Only Gallery. These participating galleries extend their hours from 5-7 p.m. during Crawl Fridays. For additional information call 336-846-2787 or visit ashecountyarts.org.
Annual Heritage Day and Kiln Opening
Bolick and Traditions Pottery presents Annual Heritage Day and Kiln Opening on June 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at their Lenoir, NC, studio and gallery. This kiln opening has occurred for more than 30 years on the last Saturday in June.
The “groundhog” style kiln is the traditional form of firing pottery before electric or gas kilns were designed. Be present at 10 a.m. to see items fresh out of the kiln and check out the best selection of wood-fired pottery. You’ll find face jugs, swirl vases, pitchers, candlesticks and more. Smoked barbecue will be served for lunch (no alcohol allowed). Enjoy live music all day, storytelling, and shopping from other vendors during the event. bolickandtraditionspottery.com/pages/kiln-openings, located at 4443 Bolick Road, Lenoir, NC
Build Your Own Art Tour
As you go in search of the best local art exhibits, artwork for your home, or gifts for someone special, add these regional galleries to your treasure hunt. And visit the Blue Ridge Craft Trails
website at blueridgeheritage.com/blue-ridge-craft-trails/ to add to your list of stops and expand your WNC art experience!
BE Artists Gallery at the Historic Banner Elk School in downtown Banner Elk features original works by 40 local artists and makers—new consignment artists are welcomed each season through a jurying process. Visit their light-filled space in the old school, built in 1939 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project. This popular co-op gallery is run by its member artists and is open weekly Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
As in past years, BE Artists Gallery will also open its doors during the Art on the Greene festivals that take place in front of the Historic Banner Elk School. The first show is May 23 -24 and runs from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. 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. Located at the corner of Main Street and Ginny Steven Lane, no trip to Blowing Rock is complete without experiencing what the locals call BRAHM. Changing exhibitions reflect the art and craft of the region, the State and the Southeast. One gallery is devoted to sharing the early history of the quaint town of Blowing Rock. Visitors can pick up an old-timey phone and hear stories from locals. They can see a scale model of Blowing Rock’s most storied hotel, the Mayview Manor and everyone can write a postcard home and the Museum staff will stamp it, and get it to the post office. A captivating video brings the area’s rich past to life. If you are in the area for a few days, check out the many programs and events that the Museum offers. Best of all—admission is free! Blowingrockmuseum.org
Carlton Gallery in the Banner Elk/Seven Devils area is known for its exquisite gifts, casually elegant atmosphere, local and regional artists in all media, gallery exhibitions, and popular workshops. “Viewing art is good for the soul. Our intention is to hold a space of peace and serenity for anyone who comes into the gallery.” Follow Carlton Gallery at carltongallery.com, and on FB and Instagram to learn about their upcoming exhibitions and other spring happenings.
Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery represents regional painters, sculptors, and fine craft persons who want to take part in benefiting the children of Crossnore Communities for Children. You’ll find work by nearly 50 local artists! The gallery specifically
Ashe Arts Center Gallery Shop
The Flower Gatherer, by Marion Cloaninger at Carlton Gallery
Kiln Opening at Bolick and Traditions Pottery
supports Crossnore’s Youth Independent Living program which transitions students from foster care to successful independent living, and the Avery campus Student Work Program. Visit the Crossnore campus at 100 DAR Drive in Newland, NC. crossnore. org/crossnore-fine-arts-gallery/
Hands Gallery in Boone has been in business for over 50 years! What started as the dream of a small group of craftspeople in 1975 has continued to thrive five decades years later. Over 100 artists have contributed to the gallery’s growth, and fostered a supportive space for sharing the love of art. “We proudly feature a diverse collection of consignment artists, each showcasing their unique aesthetic for our community to enjoy.” facebook.com/HandsGalleryArt/
Johnson County Center for the Arts in Mountain City, TN, is known for local art and crafts, creative classes for every age, custom framing, music jams, the Mural Mile, and big annual events that celebrate the heritage of the area. Sign up now to participate in one of many spring classes in watercolors, clay, pastels, wood carving, and more. You’ll find their Gallery on Main at 129 West Main Street, Mountain City, TN. johnsoncountycenterforthearts.org
Mica Gallery, a cooperative gallery of fine art and contemporary craft located in downtown Bakersville, NC, welcomes new artists this season, and is hosting several special events. The kick-off to their “Sip and Browse” series will be on Friday, May 22, with extended gallery hours from 5-7 p.m. Mica Gallery also participates in the Toe River Arts Studio Tour—stop by Mica and pick up your Studio Tour guidebook. Mica Gallery is open daily through the end of the year, and gallery hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. micagallerync.com
Penland School of Craft in Bakersville, NC, is a national craft education center dedicated to the creative life. Best known for their Immersive Craft Workshops, they welcome serious students of all skill levels, including beginners. Their residency and fellowship programs provide seasoned artists with time, space, and community for creative exploration and experimentation. Penland’s Gallery and Visitor Center features work by artists affiliated with Penland School of Craft. Register now for 100+ spring and summer workshops, and save the date for the 41st Annual Penland Benefit Auction on August 21 and 22, 2026. penland.org
The Art Cellar Gallery, located near downtown Banner Elk,
has remained committed to promoting local artists across a wide range of styles and mediums. Celebrating their 34th season, their mission continues to foster a diverse art culture in the High Country, with the gallery proudly offering “Fine Art for Everyone.” Upcoming Spring Exhibitions include works by Trey Finney & Julyan Davis May 13 - June 6, with an Opening Reception on Saturday, May 16, 4-6 p.m. The artwork of Gregory Smith & Ben Knight will be featured June 10 - July 4, with an Opening Reception on Saturday, June 13, 4-6 p.m.
The Pottery Lot in Boone welcomes everyone to come on over and craft with clay! This community pottery studio and gallery is dedicated to bringing people together through a shared love of clay and offers a year-round space for potters of all levels to create, learn, and connect. In addition to its workshops and classes, the studio features a curated retail gallery showcasing the work of dozens of local potters. Find out more about their camps, classes, clay parties and private events. thepotterylot. com
A Celebration of Appalachian Tradition, Creativity, and Community
The Southern Highland Craft Guild presents their summer Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands July 16 through 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—Asheville at 87 Haywood Street, Asheville, NC. southernhighlandguild.org/craftfair/
Turned wooden birdhouses, by Delbert Goff at Johnson County Center for the Arts
Inset: Pattern Play Exhibition at Penland Gallery, artwork by Matt Shlian Lichen Field by Greg Smith, The Art Cellar Gallery
D. Miller, at The Pottery Lot
Jean Hord Roberts, at Artists in Residence at Edgewood Cottage
Valle Crucis United Methodist Church, by David Haynes
The Mesmerizing Murals of Whitney Landwehrmann
If the walls on which artist Whitney Landwehrmann paints her public murals could talk, they would reveal the stories of lives lived, family gatherings, local nature, and the history of people who call Appalachia home. Exhibited in many of these nearby picturesque mountain towns, Landwehrmann’s outdoor wall canvases have a past-and-present energy that makes passersby stop and stare. You, too, will want to pause to take in the incredible narratives they tell.
Landwehrmann’s family history and creative story began in her beloved West Jefferson, where her family goes back generations. “Both my parents, Natalie and Norman Stewart, grew up in Ashe County, so the memories are never-ending—and I can’t forget my brother, Tyler, who always makes me laugh,” she says warmly. Landwehrmann attended local schools until leaving to attend Appalachian State. “I then gratefully returned to my remarkable, close-knit home.”
She continues, “West Jefferson is beautiful, but I love the connectivity, the traditions. They don’t get lost here. I don’t see the community just at church services; we are all part of the town, and have a better sense of belonging for it.”
Landwehrmann’s passion for art began at an early age. Her mother noticed her creative affinity and gave her some colored pencils to encourage her. “We would go to restaurants as a family. I would turn the menu over, put sketching paper on top, and just draw.”
Her grandmothers, lovingly called Nanny and Mamaw, noticed it too and were a great source of support. “My
Nanny was a retired schoolteacher and opened a framing shop, which would help me later with my art.” She was also good friends with Anne McGuire, sister of the acclaimed and distinctly talented watercolor/acrylic West Jefferson artist Stephen Shoemaker, which would prove very fortunate for me,” she added.
Shoemaker, who was born and raised in West Jefferson, was known for his landscape and locomotive painting—he painted the train mural “Cut at Devil Stairs” downtown. He also taught art classes then. “Nanny asked if I could attend, and even though I was just in first grade, he accepted me.” Shoemaker recalled fondly that Landwehrmann arrived at the first class, put her hands on her hips, and stated, “I’m a devil at times.” Not proving him wrong with her energetic spirit, he states, “I knew immediately she was a talented, committed force. Just like her grandmother, full of spunk!”
Working with pencils with Landwehrmann, he then moved her to colored markers, focusing on shading. Next were watercolors, which taught her the dexterity needed to use a paintbrush. She remembers with kindness, “He gently identified where I needed help, which had a huge impact on me.”
Her Mamaw owned a florist in Jefferson. “It is still there in Town, and her work with many different kinds of flowers really influenced my color palette. Blooms and petals inspire me, and are seen in my art.”
Her father, a commercial landscaper, owns Stuart’s Landscaping in Jefferson
By Kate Hamilton Pardee
and travels all over the East Coast for work. With him, she honed a green thumb. “Daddy saw from the get-go that I loved gardening, but he honestly knew art as my true talent. He thought that should be my priority.”
While attending App State, her art continued to develop. She painted commissioned portraits while pursuing a science degree. “I was conflicted between what I thought would be an acceptable profession or continuing to hold the brush in my hand.” Art finally won out. “The turning point for me was when I was asked to do an exhibition in 2019 at the private resort, Jefferson Landing.” The show named “Juxtaposition of the High Country” was an opportunity to show her true personal art style. “It is surrealistic, yet emotive, and always infused with the grandeur of flowers. Nature influences all my work and is woven into all my canvases or wall displays.”
It thrilled her that all but two of the paintings sold. She was also elated during this time to meet her husband, TJ Landwehrmann, who lived in West Jefferson and was working on a landscaping project at Jefferson Landing. They fell in love and got married. And, years after buying her grandparents’ home in West Jefferson, they were blessed with the arrival of their daughter, Theory.
After the exhibition, the local West Jefferson business Third Day Market commissioned Landwehrmann to create her first downtown mural, “Tree of Appalachia,” on its building. Then came the rework of the “Creston Rich Hill Baptist Church” in town.
Whitney Landwehrmann at the Middle Fork Greenway, photo by Leila Jackson, Blue Ridge Conservancy
These murals were a new focus for her art and involved an intensive process. First, agreeing on the creative idea, ensuring the wall was in good condition, renting a cherry picker, and working on the color palette to become spray paint. “It is hard physical work until it is finally set with the finishing sealant,” she explains.
Murals have long shaped West Jefferson’s identity, with the first, painted by the late Jack Young, titled “History of Ashe County as Told Through the Seasons,” located at the corner of East Main Street and School Avenue, and privately funded by local publisher McFarland and Company.
The Ashe County Arts Council then continued the project. As Jane Lonon, now retired from her 31-year run as Arts Council Director, attests, “These murals began in the 1990s. And helped to revitalize West Jefferson, adding a ‘Wow’ walkability factor for residents and visitors.”
Now, Landwehrmann murals are part of the project, and, as Lonon says, “Her talented artwork speaks for itself.” This successful public art initiative continues under the leadership of Joni Ray, the current Arts Council Director, and includes a downloadable tour of the murals, available at ashecountyarts.org.
The next mural project was deeply personal for Landwehrmann. “This One,” was commissioned by Kelly Vannoy, owner of Naked Creek FARMacy and Dry Goods in West Jefferson. “I have a generational connection to both her and her family,” says Vannoy. “Watching her
grow up and seeing her art become part of her life, you could see how intuitively gifted she is.”
“This One” tells the story of Vannoy’s Jefferson farming family and the spirit of the people living in Ashe County. “Whitney’s painting of my grandmother is hauntingly beautiful,” states Vannoy. A QR code beneath the mural links to a short film by Lucas Pruitt and Chris Read of Clarity Films honoring the story of Ashe farmers and their way of life, including Landwehrmann’s painting of the mural.
The Blue Ridge Conservancy became aware of Landwehrmann’s work and had the perfect project in mind, according to Leila Jackson, BRC’s Director of Communications. Wendy Patoprsty, Director of the Middle Fork Greenway, and Amber Bateman, Executive Director of the Watauga Arts Council, thought that Whitney’s murals would be a great addition to the Middle Fork Greenway. After review and consultation with Landwehrmann, she was hired.
The project did not come without its share of strife. The onslaught of Hurricane Helene pushed back the project. As Jackson gratefully recalls, “Amber Bateman’s commitment to securing funds after the storm from the AARP’s Community Challenge Grant ensured its completion.”
The mural project, “Finding Common Ground,” needed to depict local plants and animals indigenous to the area. Landwehrmann also included anglers. Jackson, smiling, continues, “Whitney added a mink, too, because
one night, while painting, one playfully splashed near her.” The public response is incredibly positive, with schools, camps, groups, and even those with mobility issues able to experience and enjoy the murals, thanks to close on-site parking.
Whitney recently traveled to New York and Florida, creating murals and continuing to paint with her daughter, Theory. The future includes a new mural commissioned by Tweetsie Railroad and another at West Jefferson Elementary School. There’s talk of a possible future collaboration with Shepard Fairey, a world-renowned, prolific artist known for his standout branding of former President Barack Obama’s political campaign.
But it is the legacy of her artwork she hopes to linger on. Recently, as she packed paintings to move from the attic of her childhood home, she noticed familiar handwriting on the back of the artwork’s frames. She viewed words of pride and love from her mother and grandmothers, who have since passed away. “Reading their touching words confirmed that pursuing this path is right for me. Creatively and soulfully, I hope my work continues to bring both joy and contemplation, and also importantly, be remembered.”
Whitney at work on the Middle Fork Greenway mural photo by Leila Jackson, Blue Ridge Conservancy | “This One” at Naked Creek FARMacy and Dry Goods, photo by Kate Hamilton Pardee
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
Located at 145 Main St, Banner Elk for 49 years. 828.898.4229
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The Tannery
Michael A. Almond, Author
Koehler Books, Publisher
On July 5, 1900, in Wilkes County, NC, the beautiful young daughter of tannery owner Jakob Schumann is found dead on the north bank of the Yadkin River.
In search of the killer and a motive, ambitious Wilkes prosecutor Vincent Taliaferro has arrested Virgil Wade, a mixed-race boy, and is convinced the case is open and shut. But local lawyer Ben Waterman is not so sure. Ben’s investigation uncovers evidence that undermines the prosecutor’s case, and points in an entirely different direction. But proving it may be difficult, given the makeup of the jury and certain attitudes that are prevalent in a post-Reconstruction South.
Driving the narrative to its dramatic conclusion are themes of violence and depravity associated with vigilante “justice,” the rise of Jim Crow, and societal and cultural issues still prominent in today’s headlines.
Michael A. Almond, a retired attorney, was raised in Pilot Mountain in the Piedmont foothills of North Carolina. He currently lives on a farm with his wife, Helen Ruth, in our beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. For more information, and purchasing links, visit Michaelalmondbooks.com
After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, author and photographer Kimberly Bridges found herself searching for strength, meaning, and a way forward. During this fragile season, something unexpected began to appear: heart shapes emerging in the natural world around her—formed in stones, leaves, clouds, shadows, and quiet everyday moments.
What first seemed like coincidence soon began to feel like something more. These unexpected symbols became reminders that love, hope, and resilience were still present—even in life’s hardest chapters. Over time, she came to realize the hearts were not only appearing for her, but being entrusted to her—to share their messages of love and hope with others navigating their own seasons of adversity.
In The Heartestry Project, Bridges shares hundreds of these striking photographs alongside lyrical reflections, revealing how what began as a simple act of noticing became a profound journey of awakening. The book invites readers to look more closely at the world—and to discover the quiet ways love may already be speaking in their own lives.
Author Kimberly Bridges has become a part-time local in the High Country and feels a deep connection to the mountain
For your family’s spring reading, we introduce you to a series of North Carolina history books for young readers, a debut “Southern” novel from an Avery County author, an historic thriller set in Wilkes County, and a visually stunning book of photography. CML encourages you to support our local authors, publishers, booksellers, libraries and book exchanges.
community, with many of the hearts being found while exploring locally.
The Heartestry Project is available on Amazon and at select retailers. Learn more at theheartestryproject.com
Pawleys Gray Man: Storms, Secrets, and the Pull of the Carolina Coast
PC Miller, Author Independently published
Pawleys Gray Man, the first novel in a series, follows Amy, an Asheville real estate agent who defies evacuation orders to help her father leave his home. Long estranged by silence and grief, they face a night of reckoning as Hurricane Hugo closes in.
During the storm, Amy opens Nate’s battered Army trunk and finds evidence of a life she never knew her father lived. The novel moves between Amy’s struggle to reach her father in the present and Nate’s memories of 1944, when he was a young Army photographer stationed near the Swiss border. There he befriends villagers risking their lives to expose Nazi atrocities—and a woman whose quiet strength changes him forever. The choices Nate made in those mountains echo through the years, carrying consequences neither he nor Amy can escape.
Set between storm-lashed nights on the Carolina coast and the winter valleys of Europe, Pawleys Gray Man is a story about memory, redemption, and what endures when truth is buried by time.
Pamela Miller is an Avery County author and real estate agent who was raised on the Carolina coast. Her debut novel Pawleys Gray Man, the first in a planned series, blends coastal and WWII history, real people, and true events.
Pawleys Gray Man is currently available online through Amazon and BooksAMillion, and available soon at Barnes and Noble.
Coming Soon...
Later this year, Ashe County publisher McFarland and Company will publish Elizabeth Baird Hardy’s new book, Appalachia in the Hunger Games: Real-Life Roots of District 12. Hardy, an educator, historian, and frequent CML contributor (see Big Picture Show in this issue), noted that this was “a project that has been literally over a decade in the making. When I began teaching The Hunger Games in my college composition courses, I knew I wanted to further explore the ways Suzanne Collins expertly weaves in the real culture and history of the mountains I know and love.”
Hardy’s book examines how Collins adapts features of Appalachian geography and community into speculative fiction, creating an environment that echoes both contemporary and historic Appalachia. Pre-order at Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
Continued on next page
America 250 NC is showcasing a series of children’s picture books about North Carolina’s vibrant past. Aimed at students in grades 3–5, the series brings 18th-century North Carolina history to life in a way that’s engaging for readers of all ages. The three books, published by the NC Office of Archives and History in partnership with America 250 NC, are summarized below.
Blue’s March: An Overmountain Men Tale
Katelynn A. Hatton, Author
Gabhor Utomo, Illustrator
Inspired by real events and historical figures, readers will travel with Joseph and his faithful hound dog, Blue, as they enlist in the Overmountain troops and embark on their adventure. From Sycamore Shoals, Tennessee, to Kings Mountain Battleground in South Carolina, foray with Joseph, Blue, and the Overmountain Men as they battle for independence.
Freedom’s Howl: Song of the Red Wolves
Eileen Heyes, Author
Steven Petruccio and Anne Marshall Runyon, Illustrators
In a cozy, sheltered den in the woods, four Red Wolf puppies are born. Their parents and older brothers will nurture them as they learn to mark, hunt, and howl. In a cabin not far away, a young widow named Sally Few cares for her five-year-old twins, Sarah and Will. A howl from the woods makes Sally uneasy, but the children respond with wonder to the Red Wolf’s song.
Looking back to 1776, the author and illustrators bring these two families to life during a time when Red Wolves were a top predator in what is now the southeastern U.S. Today, Red Wolves are the most critically endangered canid species in the world. More than a tale, Freedom’s Howl offers ideas to help imperiled wildlife.
Within Our Power:
The Story of the Eaton Ladies’ Tea Party
Sally Walker, Author
Jonathan D. Voss, Illustrator
During the time of the Boston Tea Party, a group of 51 courageous women in Edenton, NC, powerfully express their opposition to taxation without representation in a very public way—using a “tea party” of a different sort. Their belief and commitment spread throughout the North American colonies, and across the Atlantic Ocean. The Edenton ladies’ courage still resonates today—they show us that people can join together and create a strong voice that stands firm against injustice.
Learn more at america250.nc.gov/childrens-books and purchase books at UNC Press, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop.
Rosies and Much More
—Women of WWII: The Untold Stories
By Elizabeth Baird Hardy
As we approach the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, there will be many opportunities to celebrate and explore the fascinating and complex history of our nation. One of the most engaging ways to learn about our past is through documentary films. Women of World War II: The Untold Stories is one of those useful films, exploring an important part of our history that also has numerous connections to our own High Country.
When the United States entered World War II, the impact was not limited to the men who fought in iconic battles in Europe and the South Pacific. The role of women is one that was crucial to the war both on the home front and on the front lines. From planting Victory Gardens to serving as nurses around the world, women contributed in a vast array of capacities. They filled roles vacated by men who were serving in the military, but they did far more. The iconic “Rosie the Riveter” was so essential to the American war effort that now all women who worked in war industries have been officially recognized as “Rosies” and were honored with a Congressional Medal in 2024.
Those critical roles fulfilled by women are the focus on World War II: The Untold Stories. This 2025 PBS documentary uses a wide selection of source material, including photographs and excellent new and archival interviews collected from historians, family members, and these remarkable women themselves. Since many of those individuals have since passed away, these interviews, some recorded decades ago, preserve unique perspectives and voices.
In telling the story of the roles of the women of “the greatest generation,” this film focuses on experiences both familiar and under-documented. While many viewers may have heard of the Red Cross nurses or the Rosies who worked as welders, they may be less familiar with those who worked on farms or served vital military support roles including sorting mail and ferrying aircraft. Some of the lesser-known stories of these women and their wartime service have been adapted for motion pictures, like Tyler Perry’s The Six Triple Eight, which tells the story of the African American women of the 6888th postal battalion. Other stories are so incredible that it is surprising they have not been the subject of several cinematic treatments. Even Virginia Hall, one of the Allies’ most successful spies, has only been included as one of many featured historic figures in the 2009 A Call to Spy. Her exploits, all the more fascinating
because of her wooden leg, are true, and yet they sound like fiction.
One group that has received surprisingly little attention has strong North Carolina connections. The WASP (Women’s Air Service Pilots) flew military aircraft from place to place and towed targets for artillery practice. Camp Davis, near Wilmington, was the home base for WASP on towing detail. In Asheville, WASP were responsible for transporting Army weather officials.
Other roles fulfilled by women were common even closer to home, as women worked in war industries like North American Rayon in Elizabethton, Tennessee, and dealt with challenges like rationing and running farms across the High Country.
In addition to celebrating women who took on challenging tasks to support the war effort, Women of World War II: The Untold Stories does not shirk away from some of the more difficult experiences faced by women, from the nurses who became POWs to the Japanese women isolated in internment camps. Both racism and sexism presented challenges for some women, part of the past that is covered quite extensively in the documentary. While women in the military and in wartime industries often had to work as hard or harder than their male counterparts, they were paid less for their work and, as the war concluded, they often lost jobs to male veterans. Women like the WASP were not recognized as part of the military, and those who died in the performance of their duties did not receive military funerals: their fellow WASP members took up collections to send home their bodies. The lack of recognition these women received for their service may explain a theme that resonates through many of the stories this documentary captures: few women talked about their wartime service, and their own families were often shocked to learn what they had done during the conflict.
Women of World War II: The Untold Stories is a good introduction to this important facet of our history. Younger viewers may not recognize the importance of some of the featured speakers, but older viewers may be inspired to tell their own stories or record those of their family members while they still can. Here in the High Country, there are plenty of “untold stories” of women and their World War II experiences, so perhaps this documentary may encourage the collection and preservation of those important pieces of our history.
Women of World War II: The Untold Stories is streaming on PBS online and available from Amazon.
For readers interested in the life of Virginia Hall, consider the book “A Woman of No Importance,” by Sonia Purnell.
BIG PICTURE SHOW
Remembering Women’s Air Service Pilots –Elizabeth McKethan, Millie Davidson Dalrymple, Eloise Huffhines Bailey, and Clara Jo Marsh Stember pose on the tail of a B-29 [November 1944], from the Mildred Davidson Dalrymple Collection, Library of Congress.
Below: Rosie the Riveter—the strong, competent woman dressed in overalls and bandanna—was introduced as a symbol of patriotic womanhood. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.
Spring Notes
Yonni’s Clubhouse Now Open at Grandfather Mountain
Just opened, Yonni’s Clubhouse is a new hands-on science and conservation education center at Grandfather Mountain. Access is included with an entrance ticket to the nature park.
Yonni’s is a part of the expanding Conservation Campus at Grandfather Mountain that includes the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, the William’s Outdoor Learning Space, Cobey Botanical Garden and more. Yonni’s Clubhouse is located next to the Wilson Center and is geared toward children ages 5 to 12, though all are welcome.
“Our entire Conservation Campus aims to provide our visitors, and particularly young folks, with deeper experiences to provide a fuller understanding of nature and the interconnectedness of all species and natural systems,” said Jesse Pope, president and CEO of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “A large part of our mission is to help educate a new generation of dedicated environmental stewards and by providing more interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences on the mountain, we are hopefully creating a lifelong interest in science and conservation among the children who visit the mountain.”
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.
“When planning for this new space, it made perfect sense to link this opportunity for children’s discovery of the wonders of nature with the woodland creature,” said John Caveny, vice president of conservation and education. “Yonni can be found serving as an educational guide on interpretive signage throughout the nature park, and now, they will have their very own space to further education, conservation and exploration!”
The nature park and preserve worked with Yonni’s original creator, artist David Williams of Wingin’ It Works, on the exhibits and murals for the space. Coffey Architecture of Boone and Alex Johnson Construction Company of Newland were also involved in the design and construction aspects of the remodel of the mountain’s previous Fudge Shop building.
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 is 1,300 square feet and ADA-accessible—including Jada and Mila’s Discovery Trail outside. The 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.
“Each exhibit and educational element is thoughtfully intended to help kids get a foundational basis for the information and then apply what they have learned to what they see outside,” said Caveny. “If they discover something outside that they are interested in learning more about, we welcome them to bring it inside the space and explore it under the microscope or utilize the drawing nook to discover more about the object. We also hope that these hands-on experiences inspire children and their families to form a connection not only with the nature at Grandfather Mountain, but the nature where they live as well!”
Outside, the Jada and Mila 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 exhibits’ concepts.
Stewart and Martha Gray—Grandfather donors who have a passion for both the mountain and for exploring science museums with their grandchildren—provided a major gift to support the construction of the center, envisioning it as an immersive offering for kids to learn about conservation of the natural world around them. The couple retired to Western North Carolina after years of visiting the area, and Stewart also volunteers as a naturalist with the park’s education team. Along with Grandfather’s naturalists and educators, the Grays are excited to see children experience the space.
The building, trail and new gardens opened in April and will be the starting point of many of the mountain’s Daily Programs April-October. Make sure to bring your young explorers this spring!
Pollinator Area at Yonni’s Clubhouse
Yonni’s Clubhouse
Discovery Trail at Yonni’s Clubhouse
Wings of Love: One Family’s “Passion Project” to Help Monarchs
By Tamara S. Randolph
By now, you’ve likely seen a butterfly or two wafting through your garden. A sure sign of spring is the appearance of the eastern tiger swallowtail, as seen on the cover of this issue. It’s one of the first flutterers of the season to capture our attention, and sightings are plentiful around here.
That’s because eastern tiger swallowtails aren’t picky eaters, and many of our native shrubs and trees are suitable as host plants for their young caterpillars. The swallowtail population is currently thriving. However, another of our native butterfly species, the eastern monarch, isn’t so fortunate. It has a very picky palate, holding out for just one special host plant—milkweed (Asclepias spp.). The availability of various native milkweed species determines when and where we see monarchs, and how many survive in the long run.
On the Move
In early spring, monarchs leave their wintering grounds in Mexico and begin heading north. It is a multi-generational journey, according to Monarch Joint Venture, a conservation organization dedicated to protecting monarch and pollinator habitat across North America. “The monarchs that spent the winter in Mexico will make it to the southern U.S. before laying eggs. And the offspring of that generation will move farther north before laying their eggs.” Here in the High Country, we start to see adult monarchs around late April—yet how many we will see this year is still in question.
Scientists have long studied monarch migration. Many years’ worth of data shows migrating populations are waning due to the loss of monarch breeding habitat. Female monarch butterflies lay their eggs only on milkweed, and the caterpillars that hatch from these eggs spend their larval life munching on the mildly toxic leaves of their one and only food plant. Without milkweed, monarchs cannot survive.
That’s why the efforts of everyday people matter—people like the Garner family, Boone residents who are dedicated to helping monarchs.
“The monarch population fluctuates year to year, but has been on the decline for many years,” Julie Garner explains. “There have been some studies that suggest the species has a high probability of extinction within the next 60 years unless more action is taken.”
When Julie and her daughter, Frances, decided to take action, they started by learning everything they could about the plight of monarchs and what people can do to help these vulnerable pollinators. In 2019, they began raising monarchs at their home to help boost the population of the later generations that migrate south.
“What makes our area so special for eastern monarchs is that each fall, western North Carolina becomes one of the last stops for the fourth generation of the monarchs’ migration, making access to milkweed here incredibly important. We call these the ‘super generation’ of
Julie and Frances Garner
monarchs because once emerged, their reproduction cycle is put on hold to enable their lifespan to reach up to nine months, maybe longer.” In contrast, earlier generations live only two to five weeks. A longer lifespan, she explains, “allows them to migrate to the warmer Sierra Madre Mountains of Mexico, and sometimes Florida.”
The Start of a Super Generation
“We collect eggs and larvae from the wild and then raise them in individual nets on the porch—and inside sometimes, too.” She notes that raising monarchs from eggs is ideal because you can limit exposure to diseases and pesticide-contaminated milkweed. With their hatch rate being extremely low in the wild, Julie says that “when done responsibly, rearing them in your home gives them a better chance of survival overall. It’s not too complicated, but does take some dedication.”
The Garners encourage other families to give it a try. But keep in mind that caterpillars are ravenous, as anyone who has read The Hungry Caterpillar knows. Even if you want to raise just one or two, Julie offers this bit of advice: “You should always make sure you have access to milkweed if you decide to raise an egg or caterpillar.” Having clean, pesticide-free milkweed is critical, she adds. “Last year, we had six caterpillars die from various diseases contracted in the wild. Death, in my experience, has been caused by NPV [Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus]—this is usually avoidable by raising eggs and bleaching milkweed, and raising caterpillars found in the wild in separate nets, as it prevents this contagious disease from spreading.”
Tag, Your It!
Once caterpillars become adult butterflies, they can be tagged, which allows scientists to monitor migrating populations. “We tag our monarchs through a tagging program by Monarch Watch. This involves placing a small sticker on the discal cell of a monarch’s wing—as long as it is done properly, it does not harm the butterfly. Monarch Watch, an incredible organization founded by Dr. Orley ‘Chip’ Taylor, has even started implementing radio tags to track migration in real time.”
Last fall, the Garners tagged and released nearly 50 monarchs. “We are not a large-scale operation, but last fall was our largest year yet. It’s definitely a passion project because collecting and cleaning that much milkweed was quite the task, and our home and porch were filled with individual insect nets for about four months.” It’s all worth it, she says, when each butterfly is released to begin its journey south.
Monarchs can use your help, too.
Spring is a great time to get started! Begin researching monarchs at Monarch Joint Venture (monarchjointventure.org) and Monarch Watch (monarchwatch.org). And be on the lookout for high quality milkweed plants. While autumn is the best time to start milkweed from seed, you can find milkweed plugs and plants later this spring and early summer at native plant sales and select nurseries. Once established, plants require little fertilizer and spread naturally, making milkweed ideal for large, sunny spaces.
For seasoned monarch rearers like the Garners, spring doesn’t demand too much of their time. “I’ll be bleaching all of the nets from last season to prepare for the fall.” And she and Frances will tend to the milkweed they planted from seed last year. “I also plan on emailing a few people at the town and [Blue Ridge] Parkway to inquire about mowing schedules of vacant fields this summer and fall.” By delaying mowing in fields with a lot of milkweed, the odds of survival for the super generation improve.
“Habitat conservation is probably the main goal for our area,” Julie stresses. “We like to raise them to help a few out because their survival in the wild is said to be between only one and ten percent, maybe less.” She says that they also want to spread awareness and love for smaller, vulnerable creatures, especially among children. “It’s a beautiful learning experience that my mom, Lynn, and aunt, Judy, a retired biology teacher and land conservationist, did for me when I was younger—they planted the seeds for this passion project throughout my childhood by providing hands on experiences with the natural world.
“That’s exactly what I’m trying to do here, especially with my own daughter and her friends,” she continues. “She has always been a lover of big and small creatures alike so raising monarchs together became a beautiful way to share in that love. No caring act is too small when it comes to conservation. Our hope is that we can ultimately create a ripple effect so that future generations have a desire to protect not only the monarch population, but other vulnerable populations as well.”
Julie Garner will happily answer your questions on raising monarchs; email her at blueridgemonarchs@gmail.com.
Photos by Silver Pebble Photography | silverpebblephotography.com
A tagged monarch, by Julie Garner
Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis)
BIRDING
Native Plants for Your Backyard Birds
By Paul Laurent
If you’re reading this column, then I’m going to go ahead and assume that you like birds. There’s even a good chance you have bird feeders in your yard, or would, except for the bears that periodically come through and destroy them! I get asked all the time about the best options for bird seed—black oil sunflower seeds are great for our area. However, the best thing you can do to help the birds in your yard, and attract more birds, isn’t to put out a new or different bird feeder, it’s to plant native plants.
While bird feeders can certainly help birds, as long as they are kept clean, recent studies show that birds generally get only 10 percent of their daily food from bird feeders in areas with reliable feeding stations. Just like us, birds need a varied diet to stay healthy, and eating just seeds isn’t enough for a bird to thrive. The remainder of their diet is insects and natural seeds from their habitat.
I’m going to go out on a limb again and guess that you’d rather not raise a bunch of crickets, aphids, flies, gnats, caterpillars, and other bugs in your house to feed the birds. The great news is that there is a fantastic way to provide all the food a bird needs with minimal work, and minimal expense! Just plant native plants in your yard, and don’t spray chemical pesticides or weed killers on your property. Nature takes care of the rest!
Nature is all about balance. Birds depend on insects for food, especially caterpillars in the spring to feed their babies. Those same insects depend on plants for their own food, and many insects have particular host plants on which they lay their own eggs. This balances out really well; since different insects have different host plants, no one plant is completely destroyed by hungry caterpillars.
There is a great example of this synergy at Valle Crucis Community Park. Every summer, dogwood sawfly caterpillars swarm all over the silky dogwood trees growing along the river at the park. The sawfly caterpillars will strip most of the leaves off the trees, leaving them looking almost dead. Once they pupate, the tree immediately puts out a fresh bunch of leaves and looks quite healthy for the rest of the summer and fall. The silky dogwood has evolved to plan on losing most of its leaves each summer, and then grow a new set for the rest of the season with no ill effects. Many birds and
other animals will feed on these caterpillars. This is why the sawfly has evolved to hatch an incredible number of caterpillars at once, to ensure that some make it to adulthood. The birds, the sawflies, and the dogwood have all evolved together so that each of them survives and thrives.
Planting a variety of native plants is thus a key to having a birdfriendly yard. Different plants are hosts to different insects, and many emerge at different times, so a good variety of plants gives a good variety of insects, which draws in more birds. The important thing is to never spray pesticides on your plants. The chemicals in the pesticides are not just toxic to bugs, they will also kill the birds who feed on those bugs, especially baby birds who aren’t strong enough to handle the toxic effects. While your garden might look a bit ragged at times, those chewed-up leaves are a sign of healthy insect populations, which are feeding the birds you love!
The other thing you can do to help birds in your yard comes in the winter. The great news is, what you have to do is literally nothing! Leave the dead seedheads standing in your yard. While it may look a little rough, those seeds are another vital food for the birds that overwinter here, and many insects also overwinter in the hollow stalks of the dormant plants. Leaving the dead stalks of plants standing ensures that wintering birds have food, and that next year’s insects survive to lay their own eggs.
While pretty much any native plant is going to be good for wildlife, there are some species of plants that are considered ‘superpollinators.’ These plants are known to attract a wide variety of pollinators and are great for attracting birds as well. Some excellent options for our mountains are:
Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum spp.)
Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis)
Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)
Since we have a wide variety of habitats, elevations, and other factors that can affect what native plants will do best in your yard, I recommend contacting your local Native Plant Society for information about what plants are best for your property, and where to find good sources for native plants in your area (ncwildflower.org/ our-chapters/).
Planting native plants in your yard, and not spraying pesticides, is truly one of the best things you can do to help birds and other wildlife. You can’t support birds without supporting the plants and insects that exist alongside them. Once the plants are in the ground, they are adapted perfectly to thrive in our unique ecosystem. This means less time spent weeding and watering. Come winter, leaving the old seedheads standing gives you more time to go skiing, or escape the cold and migrate down to Costa Rica for a while. You won’t even have to clean bird feeders, or come up with crazy contraptions in a vain effort to keep bears, squirrels, and racoons from raiding them.
A Conversation with Birding Columnist Paul Laurent
When Paul Laurent isn’t busy keeping a close watch on our feathered friends here in the High Country, he’s often boarding planes, trains, automobiles and even cruise ships in search of birds and other wildlife. One of his most recent excursions in January took him to Antarctica with a small group of nature enthusiasts who signed up for the trip through Paul’s birding tour company, Epic Nature Tours.
CML: Most of us will never make it to the lower reaches of South America and Antarctica. Was this your first tour to The Frozen Continent?
Paul: Yes, I usually lead local tours, and take small groups to Central and South America, but this was the farthest I’ve led a trip! Traveling to the far side of the world is a great way to see tons of new and amazing wildlife. I changed things up for this trip and booked a Princess Cruise from Buenos Aires to Antarctica and back. We made stops in Punta Arenas, Chile, and Ushuaia, Argentina, on the way down.
CML: What were some of your impressions during the first leg of your trip in S. America?
Paul: The coolest thing about visiting the southern tip of South America was how much it felt like home. We explored forests full of towering fir trees, draped in thick layers of moss. The clouds hung low and it really could have been a hike along the top of Grandfather Mountain or Mount Mitchell if not for the very different bird songs.
We saw Flightless Steamer Ducks, Dolphin Gulls, and the dramatically named Fire-eyed Diucon, which is a drab little gray bird with bright demon-red eyes, along with dozens of other species never seen in North America.
CML: From there you had to navigate a vast span of ocean... what did you experience along the way?
Continued on next page
CAROLINA MOUNTAIN
Paul is a naturalist & birding guide who offers custom tours throughout the High Country, and around the world for small groups. His company is Epic Nature Tours.
Goldfinch on Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), by Michael Murphy
Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
An emerging pale purple coneflower
Paul: We cruised through deep fjords with snowcapped peaks towering above them while Western Rockhopper Penguins swam around the boat, and Black-browed Albatross and Southern Giant Petrels flew alongside us. It was incredible to cruise through the same straits that Ferdinand Magellan did in the 1500s (our trip ended better than his!).
From there we crossed Drake Passage—’the roughest seas in the world’—though it wasn’t that bad in our case. We had an easy time and even saw Snowy Albatrosses flying past us; this bird has a 12-foot wingspan and can literally spend years at sea without touching land. There were also many smaller petrels and shearwaters. A remarkable number of birds spend their lives over the open ocean, so the cruise across the open ocean was just as incredible as the time spent closer to shore.
CML: Days later, you reached Antarctica, where you mentioned you were welcomed by several special groups of animals?
Paul: Yes, we began to see huge colonies of Chinstrap and Gentoo Penguins covering the rocky coasts of the last continent. Humpback whales were incredibly common, as were the rarer fin whales and several other species. Pintado Petrels would swarm the back of the boat, picking little critters out of the water that the ship’s propeller stirred up.
CML: A port of call on your return trip was the Falkland Islands, another remote destination off the southeastern coast of S. America. What were some of the highlights?
Paul: My group got great views of a few King Penguins. These birds stand 3.5 feet tall and can weigh up to 40 pounds. The islands are barren, desolate, and yet hauntingly beautiful and full of remarkable wildlife that thrives in this most unique location. The remnants of the Falkland Islands War between the Brits and the Argentinians are still prevalent. Old gun emplacements stand as silent sentinels while totally oblivious Magellanic Penguins waddle around them.
CML: Where will your next nature travels take you, and how can others join in?
Paul: I head out to Arizona for a trip in April, then to northern Ohio for the Biggest Week In American Birding Festival, and then on to Alaska for a while. I offer private, custom trips for one to six guests. If anyone has a small group that would like a oneof-a-kind nature adventure anywhere in the world, just let me know!
www.epicnaturetours.com
Explore Daniel Boone Native Gardens
Daniel Boone Native Gardens (DBNG), located near downtown Boone, N.C., contains an outstanding collection of native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. More than 200 species of plants provide a progression of blooms throughout the growing season. The DBNG promotes the benefits of native plants and healthy ecosystems, and provides a community green space in the heart of the High Country.
“Our vision is to showcase the largest collection of horticulturally available native species from the Blue Ridge ecoregion, inspire people to plant native species in their own landscapes, and offer a place where our community can enjoy outdoor events.”
Here are just some of the events taking place:
Plant Sales
Saturdays, May 16 and June 20, from 8 to 11 a.m
Start your own pollinator garden or enhance your landscape with plants that are native to our region, all responsibly propagated in accordance with all plant-protection laws. Proceeds will benefit the Gardens, the NC Native Plant Society, and the Blue Ridge Chapter of the NC Native Plant Society. Learn more at www.danielboonenativegardens.org/plant-sales.
In addition, Bug Lovers Native Plants will hold sales at the Gardens on most Saturdays (dates TBA), with some proceeds benefiting the Gardens, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Learn more at www.danielboonenativegardens.org/events.
Roots in the Garden Concert Series
May 28, June 18, July 16, July 30, and Aug. 20
The family-friendly Roots in the Garden concert series celebrates Appalachian roots, live music, and community, drawing residents and visitors together in one of Boone’s most treasured settings. Admission is a $5 suggested donation to benefit the Gardens. The May 28 concert will feature Adam Church, a true Boone hometown favorite for the grand opening of the Gardens’ stage.
The annual concert series also features visual artists. Beer, wine, and food will be available for purchase, and picnics are welcome. Learn more at www.danielboonenativegardens.org/music.
Save the Date! Fairy Day 2026
Saturday, July 11, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
“Get your costumes ready, or come as you are—regardless, be prepared for a good time!” Admission is $5 for all adults, with young folk 17 and under free. This popular event has activities for children of all ages:
• Henna, fairy hair, and face-painting artists
• Numerous vendors selling whimsical and inspired art and crafts
• Live dancers and musicians
• Interactive family activities, including making fairy trees and painting fairy doors
• Neighborhood Yoga offering pop-up yoga poses
“Our fantastic fairy, Brucie Abella, will be enchanting all the fairgoers, and several food providers will offer treats to beat the heat. Adults, if you wear your fairy and woodland best, you may win a prize!” Learn more at www.danielboonenativegardens.org/fairyday.
Think Inside the Box
By Tamara S. Randolph
ALTERNATIVES TO THE LANDFILL
Most spring-cleaning routines involve a close inspection of the contents in your drawers and closets. As you sort through your belongings this season, you’ll likely come across some unwanted, gently used goods that you can add to the thrift-store pile. We have many great thrift stores in the High Country that can repurpose much of your old stock. Ask yourself, “Would anyone want this?” Or, “Is this item still useful?” If the answer is yes, a thrift store will likely put it back into circulation.
However, what do you do with items like holey socks? Or those random cosmetics tubes, inkless pens and markers, broken reading glasses, and scraps of fabric? Sure, there’s the landfill. But if you’re hoping to repurpose and recycle more this year, check out these convenient alternatives.
A New Life for Socks at Mast Store
Winter can be rough on the feet— and on the socks that keep them toasty. You know last season’s threadbare socks, or socks without a mate, are not something to donate to a thrift store. But it seems like a waste to throw them in the trash.
Instead, wash those old socks and head over to the Original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. Once there, make your way to their shoe department. In addition to finding an amazing collection of high-quality shoes, you’ll come across a large cardboard box inviting you to “drop ‘em in.”
The Smartwool Second CutTM project “provides all Mast Store guests an opportunity to give their old socks new life... and help keep good materials out of landfills.” They accept any
brand, condition, and textile composition. Your old footies, dress socks, boot socks, tube socks—once ground up and reconstructed—become new socks once again.
Strive for Zero Waste
Here in the mountains, we’re limited to what we can recycle through our local waste management facilities. According to TerraCycle, an international leader in sustainability solutions, traditional waste management companies recycle only five percent of all waste. “Not because it’s impossible, but because it’s not profitable.”
With their Zero Waste BoxTM, TerraCycle offers a solution for disposing all your hard-to-recycle waste in a few easy steps: order a box (different sizes are available); fill it up with accepted materials; then ship the box back. TerraCycle recycles the contents into usable raw materials, which are then made into new products, such as outdoor furniture and gardening equipment.
You can add almost anything to your Zero Waste Box: art supplies, clothing and accessories, coffee bags and pods, home cleaning accessories, kitchen gear, LED string lights, office supplies, e-waste, old VHS tapes, snack wrappers, and so many other items. Order online and your box is delivered to you within 7-10 days. Then start filling it up! They offer both residential and commercial options at tcrwusa.com/collections/zwb.
With these two recycling options, I’ve discovered benefits beyond paring down my unwanted “stuff.” Now that I am more aware of how easy it is to accumulate hard-to-recycle waste, I’m choosing goods that are less disposable and built to last. I’m looking for products that are packaged more sustainably. And I’m enjoying that good feeling that comes from helping to “keep good materials out of landfills.”
Photo by Mark File
By Georgia Walters
Was it You?
By Georgia Walters
Someone got excited to see me today. I heard their squeals of delight and turned to see what made the noise.
Someone took my picture today. I tried my best to pose and give them time to get their camera out.
Someone’s little ones enjoyed watching me graze around the tree line for delicious grubs.
Someone saw my little cubs come out of their den and follow their momma across the road.
Someone watched me wander down into a creek bed and take a cool bath in the mountain water.
Someone saw me sleeping on a stretched-out tree branch of an old, tall tree and said how uncomfortable that must be.
Someone also made some mistakes today at my expense.
Someone let their dog bark at me today and that made me nervous because they are so loud and scary.
Someone left hot dogs on the picnic grill, and I got an easy treat, even though they were yelling at me.
Someone threw their trash in the road, and I dodged traffic to see what the neat smell was.
Someone left the trashcan unattended, and I dove down inside for all the tasty, discarded treats.
Someone didn’t lock their car doors, and being the smart bear I am, I opened it and went inside.
Someone didn’t take the time to think about how to keep me safe in my own home.
Someone signed my death warrant. Was it you?
NC BLUE RIDGE ROAD TRIP 2026
Trail Reports: Spring 2026
By CML Staff
TRAIL
n Overmountain Victory Trail
Does your family enjoy hiking, biking, running, paddling, fishing, road tripping, and exploring the history and nature of our region? 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.
Stretching 330-miles through four states (VA, TN, NC and SC) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by Patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. One of the most important and inspirational episodes of the Revolutionary War, the Trail tracks right through CML territory, from Abingdon VA over the highest peaks in Avery County and the Roan Mountain area to King’s Mountain SC.
With this year marking the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, now is a great time to follow this historic campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route along existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or by traversing 87 miles of walkable pathways.
Several organizations are dedicated to this historic treasure, including the Overmountain Victory North Carolina State Trail–Friends (OVNCST-Friends, ovncst.org), which is committed to completing as much of the unfinished trail as possible in the 11 NC counties through which the Trail runs by July 4, 2026. The Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA), a non-profit group that holds educational events and an annual reenactment march, plans several commemorations this year—follow updates at facebook.com/OvermountainVictoryTrail/.
Learn more about the Overmountain Victory Trail and its rich history at nps.gov/ovvi
n New Trail at Rivers House Park in Boone
Blue Ridge Conservancy and the Town of Boone are celebrating a major milestone in outdoor access and regional connectivity this spring with the official opening of Rivers House Park, which will serve as the southern terminus of the Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST). “Breaking ground at Rivers House Park [was] a huge moment for the Northern Peaks State Trail,” said NPST Coordinator Jordan Sellers. The NPST will connect Boone (Watauga County) to Jefferson and West Jefferson (Ashe County) along the Amphibolite Mountains.
The new trails at Rivers House Park were funded by a Recreational Trails Program Grant, with the local match provided by the Town of Boone, the Downtown Boone Development Association, and Blue Ridge Conservancy. A new one-mile trail features a figure-eight design, and a renovated path off the main trail leads hikers to “Baby,” one of North Carolina’s Champion Trees—a 100-ft tall sugar maple. The Town of Boone is also constructing a new parking area and accessible restrooms for the park.
The Rivers House, formerly known as the R. L. Clay House, was constructed circa 1930 for R. L. Clay, and later purchased by Robert Campbell Rivers, Jr., the first publisher of Boone’s Watauga Democrat Newspaper as well as publisher of the Blowing Rock Rocket and Avery Journal in Newland, NC. Daughter Rachel Rivers-Coffey and her family eventually donated this historic property and house to the Town of Boone to be used for “recreational purposes, green space, flood mitigation, a wildlife sanctuary, and historical purposes.”
A ribbon cutting takes place on Friday, April 17 at 150 Clay House Drive, Boone, NC 28607.
n Spring Adventures on Beech Mountain
Gear up for adventure this May during Beech Mountain’s Hike On Month. Each May, Beech Mountain celebrates its fantastic trail system. A trekker’s haven, the area provides adventurers of all ages and skill levels many wonders to uncover around the mountain, from the scenic vistas of the Emerald Outback trail park to beautiful, maintained trails. During a spring trek, hikers can take in waterfalls, wildlife, and wildflowers. The program includes guided hikes and giveaways at the Visitor Center.
In June, several other events are scheduled to get families out to explore Beech Mountain’s amazing environs. The annual Kiddo Fishing Derby will take place at Lake Coffey on June 6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free for children 12 and under, participants bring their own poles & tackle to compete. Gift bags are provided at registration, in person at Lake Coffey on the morning of the event. For more information, call 828-387-3003. On June 6 and June 7, join the call to the wild and explore the wonders of the mountain at Beech Mountain’s Naturalist Rally. This event at Buckeye Recreation Center features expert talks, guided hikes, and hands-on activities designed to deepen your understanding of local ecosystems and environmental challenges. For more information, contact 828-387-3003. beechmtn.com
Rivers House Park Trail
Hiking on the Overmountain Victory Trail
n Festivals Honoring Our Trails
The Appalachian Trail Days Festival, May 15-17, is the biggest event of the year in Damascus, VA, and the world’s largest celebration of the Appalachian Trail and hiker culture. Damascus is known by many as “Trail Town USA” because of the renowned trails that intersect within town limits, including the Virginia Creeper Trail, Appalachian Trail (AT), Iron Mountain Trail, Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route, TransAmerica Bicycle Trail / Route 76, TransVirginia Bike Route, and The Crooked Road.
In honor of the AT, the town of Damascus celebrates every spring with an estimated 25,000 people attending, and over a hundred vendors of handmade goods and outdoor gear. Enjoy live music, food and fun with trail supporters and hiking enthusiasts. Trail Days is free to attend, with a fee for overnight camping at Tent City. visitdamascus.org/traildays/
The 7th Annual NC Trail Days Festival takes place June 4-7 in Elkin and Jonesville, NC. The two distinct trail towns are a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway, nestled between two state parks and separated only by the Yadkin River.
The festival’s schedule of events includes specialty hikes to waterfalls, abandoned distilleries, and local wineries; the Yadkin River Trail Run 5k/10k; art and history walks through downtown Elkin; and guided local hikes on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and Overmountain Victory Trail. Daily paddling events take place on the Yadkin River, along with a downtown block party, live music in the evenings and much more. ExploreElkin.com and NCTrailDays.com
n National Trails Day Scavenger Hunt at Boone Fork
On Saturday, June 6 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., bring the family and play outside for National Trails Day! Meet a ranger at Boone Fork Parking Area (milepost 299.9 on the Blue Ridge Parkway) and grab a trail scavenger hunt to complete while on the Nuwati Trail. This three-mile out-and-back, easy-to-moderate hike leads to a beautiful view of Storyteller’s Rock, but can you find where all the pictures were taken as you hike along? This is a self-guided hike— please wear appropriate hiking shoes and dress for the weather. Note that there are no bathrooms at Boone Fork Parking Area. For questions, contact grandfather.mountain@ncparks.gov, and visit events.dncr.nc.gov/
National Trails Day®, held annually on the first Saturday in June, is a nationwide celebration promoting stewardship and recreation on America’s trails. Find additional Trails Day events at americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/.
n Runners, Take Your Mark
Several competitive running events are taking place this June and July, so early spring is a great time to start training! Runners (and walkers) can participate in a new race on June 14 and “take on all the hills and thrills of Boone.” The Mountaineer 10 Miler (with a 4-mile option) starts and ends at Appalachian State University’s Kidd Brewer Stadium. Participants can choose from a 4-mile route, a 10-mile race, or the double-down challenge at 14 miles. Activities begin at 6 a.m. at Kidd Brewer Stadium, 270 Stadium Drive, Boone, NC. mountaineer10miler.com/
Hosted by Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation, Run the Beech is a running/walking race series on Beech Mountain with the goal of offering an affordable outdoor activity for every skill level. Events will be held June 19, July 3 and July 24, and each race will highlight different terrain that Beech has to offer. Registration is required. Visit facebook.com/BuckeyeRecCenter or just call them at 828-387-3003.
n Critter Condos along Hemlock Trail
A series of functional sculptures that house animals along the Hemlock Trail in Banner Elk, NC—Critter Condos—were created by the 2025 Land and Environmental Art class at Lees-McRae College. This collaborative project highlights the ecology of the Southern Appalachian region by providing unique and eye-catching habitats for local wildlife. Bird houses, salamander “shelters,” bug hotels, and squirrel sanctuaries were created in response to the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) 2022 Action Plan, which reported the environmental challenges facing the southern Appalachian region due to climate change. The Hemlock Trail is located near the Mill Pond in downtown Banner Elk.
Kiddo Fishing Derby
Boone 10-miler
TRAIL REPORTS
n What’s Happening on the Blue Ridge Parkway this Season?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is in the final phase of work on a $100M+ project, spanning 75 miles of the parkway, including popular sections in the High Country. The project includes repaving and rehabilitation along the mainline motor road, as well as repairs to road drainage structures, curbs, walks, shoulders, guardrails, overlooks and signage.
Blue Ridge Parkway visitors and neighbors can expect various sections within this corridor to be closed intermittently while work is underway this spring. Staggered closures are planned in a way that provides continuous access to popular park recreation areas.
The Blue Ridge Parkway unites countless communities in North Carolina and Virginia. The National Park Service (NPS) is organizing Community Connections outreach events to bring together Parkway neighbors and park staff to share updates on road construction projects and learn about volunteer opportunities. A donation to this initiative will help foster engagement, understanding, and collaboration to benefit the region. Consider supporting the important work of the National Park Service and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, the primary fundraising partner for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Find more information at brpfoundation.org. For updates on closures and detours this spring, visit nps. gov/blri/ or download the NPS app.
n Discover Otter Falls
In the community of Seven Devils, not far from Boone, Sugar Mountain and Banner Elk, NC, is a hidden gem: Otter Falls. This moderately strenuous hike starts from a trailhead parking area at 825 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils, and descends about 230 feet to scenic Otter Falls on Valley Creek.
The 0.6-mile hike to the falls creates a round trip of about 1.2 miles through lush mountain forest. An observation deck, located adjacent to Otter Falls at an elevation of 3,620’, provides beautiful views of the waterfall. sevendevilsnc.gov
n Recent Land Conservation Successes
At the end of last year, Blue Ridge Conservancy (BRC) purchased 335 acres of forested land in the Brushy Mountains of Wilkes County. This property adjoins land jointly owned by BRC and Foothills Conservancy of NC (FCNC). In total, 1,460 acres of land in this area are in conservation ownership.
“The Brushy Mountains have become a focus of Blue Ridge Conservancy due to their tremendous conservation potential,” stated Abbey Rankins, BRC’s Land Protection and Stewardship Fellow. “This acquisition adds to the conservation network being created in Wilkes County.” The property is located in the eastern end of the Brushy Mountains with elevations exceeding 1,800 feet. It is entirely wooded and is characterized as mountainous land, with narrow ridges and knobs, steep slopes, and tight ravines. blueridgeconservancy.org
The Conservation Trust for North Carolina (CTNC) recently purchased 52 acres at the head of Linville Gorge in the headwaters of Dugger’s Creek, the last tributary entering the Linville River before the water flows over Linville Falls. This property, an important area for critical wildlife and water quality protection, expands the already protected 396 acres, now totaling 448 acres at the head of Linville Gorge, enhancing the significance of the National Wilderness Area. “CTNC’s ability to secure the permanent protection of this property, and many others along the Blue Ridge Parkway, is thanks to our dedicated donors.” ctnc.org
The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s (SAHC) beautiful Wiles Creek Preserve in the Highlands of Roan just got a little more spectacular. They recently acquired 48 acres that adjoin and expand the existing preserve, strengthening the protection of natural resources on both properties. Visitors to the Roan High Bluff and hikers along the Appalachian Trail, which passes less than a mile from the preserve, enjoy views directly onto this picturesque tract. SAHC’s acquisition of the land permanently protects pristine water resources as well as exceptional wildlife habitat. Land Protection Director Michelle Pugliese notes, “Now this special land will continue to provide habitat for rare species, and its slopes will remain unspoiled as seen by hikers on the Appalachian Trail.” appalachian.org
Blue Ridge Parkway
Wiles Creek Field, courtesy of SAHC
n Crafts | Wine | Cheese | Music | Hiking | Driving | History
Whatever Trails you’d like to follow this spring, make your first stop at one of our Chambers of Commerce or TDA Visitors Centers. Inside, you’ll find physical maps and brochures that will guide you to your destinations of choice throughout the High Country and surrounding region. Each of these organizations is here to support visitors, residents, and businesses in our communities.
• Morganton Chamber of Commerce: downtownmorganton.com
• Sugar Mountain TDA: seesugar.com
• West Jefferson TDA: visitwestjefferson.org
• Wilkes County Chamber of Commerce: wilkeschamber.com
CAROLINA MOUNTAIN
Otter Falls, photo by Mark File
Critter Condo
Helping Explorers Navigate the High Country
An
Interview with “Map Maker” Mark File
By CML Staff
Findingone’s way around our mountain towns can be a bit tricky. Beyond GPS, which is often confusing at best, real maps—in both paper and digital form—can be of great assistance, especially if they serve as reliable “tour guides” to some of the tried-and-true best places to stop, shop, dine and play.
Here, we introduce you to Mark File, the creator of several new maps that are designed to aid visitors and residents in navigating our region’s charming towns. Thanks to Mark and his decades of experience in tourism, maps such as “Downtown Banner Elk: Shop, Dine & Unwind”; “High Country Road Trip”; and “Mayland Meander—NC Blue Ridge Road Trip” are readily available to anyone exploring our neck of the woods.
CML: Mark, tell us how you became interested in tourism as a profession?
Mark: I’m a lifelong North Carolina resident with an early passion for trip planning, collecting maps and exploring the state. I attended Catawba College in Salisbury and began my career in tourism at the North Carolina Transportation Museum. In 2003, I created the RomanticAsheville.com Travel Guide, which grew to promote 16 counties in western NC. By 2018, the website received 5.5 million visits annually from visitors looking for things to do.
CML: And that business resulted in a big award for you—the Charles Kuralt Award from the NC Travel Industry Association—for bringing exceptional, positive public attention to the state. You sold RomanticAsheville.com in 2019 and relocated
with your husband, David Soyars, to Banner Elk. Since then, what endeavors have kept you busy?
Mark: I focus on marketing and communication projects for small businesses, destination marketing organizations and non-profits. I’m currently the social media manager for the Banner Elk TDA and I volunteer with High Country Host, Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, Feeding Avery Families and other nonprofits.
CML: You’re also an accomplished photographer. In fact, several photos in this issue of CML were taken by you. And you make maps! How did the idea form for your first map project in 2024?
Mark: The first map project focused on downtown Banner Elk to help small businesses recover after Helene struck. It was heart breaking to talk with shop and restaurant owners after losing their fall season. In addition, they were concerned that visitors would not return for the holiday season. That’s scary since visitors spend $250+ million each year in Avery County, supporting 1,500 jobs. That’s about 20 percent of all employment in the county!
I was certainly inspired by seeing so many people from near and far helping the local recovery. While I didn’t have the skills to cut down trees or rebuild a bridge, I knew a thing or two about marketing. With support from the Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority, I created the “Holiday Stroll” map of central Banner Elk to show that the town had reopened.
CML: And how was that first map received?
Mark: The digital version was an immediate hit on Facebook with thousands of Banner Elk fans sharing the maps to spread the word. Print versions of the map were distributed around town for businesses to cross promote each other. That map is currently on its sixth version with more than 12,000 printed copies picked up last year.
CML: Realizing the huge demand, you followed it with the “High Country Road Trip” map. What was the inspiration behind that one?
Mark: After I attended many storm recovery strategy meetings, and hearing concerns about the impacts of the Blue Ridge Parkway closures, the idea of a 50mile loop was born. The map leveraged the 14-mile open section of the Parkway from Grandfather Mountain to Blowing Rock to direct visitors throughout a larger area in Avery and Watauga counties.
The purpose was to show potential visitors that roads were open and there’s plenty to see and do. It highlighted attractions like Grandfather Mountain, the original Mast General Store and Tweetsie Railroad. The summer and fall versions of that illustrated map received more than 7 million views on Facebook and Instagram. Printed copies were available at 40+ locations, thanks to funding from a partnership of five tourism development authorities: Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Blowing Rock and Watauga County.
David Soyars, Nancy Owen and Mark File,
photo by Robin Ollis
our towns, so they feature a diverse sampling of things to do that would appeal to many interests. Most places featured are free to enjoy—including the scenic views along the way, hiking trails and downtowns to explore. The project also offered a great opportunity for tourism organizations and Chambers of Commerce to collaborate together while providing the added trip planning resources for potential visitors to find lodging, dining, shopping, etc.
CML: Tell us about your latest map project, the “Mayland Meander” map.
Mark: The third map follows my “Roads to Recovery” theme to remind people outside of our area that our mountains are ready for exploring in 2026. The Mayland Meander illustrated map directs visitors through 12 mountain towns and 120 miles of scenic countryside in three counties, Mitchell, Avery and Yancey (the MAY in Mayland). The route includes the short, open sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway, detouring around stretches still under repair from damages caused by Helene. Since the Parkway sees 16+ million visitors a year, its closure in these areas is devastating to many small businesses that rely on tourism spending.
CML: In addition to the hub towns of Banner Elk, Spruce Pine and Burnsville,
land. The map also includes a “Riverside Ride” along the North Toe River that is ready again for fishing, rafting and tubing. Popular attractions along the way include Grandfather Mountain, NC Mining Museum, Linville Falls and the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. It also includes some one-of-a-kind places— the Mayland Earth to Sky Park, an International Dark Sky Park and Planetarium, Crossnore Weavers, the Orchard at Altapass, and Penland School of Crafts.
CML: What is your process for creating these maps?
Mark: Since I was a small kid, I’ve been a map and brochure geek. As a youngster, I drew all sorts of maps with my magic markers. Fast forward many decades, and I’m doing the same. My first step is driving the routes as a “tourist.” Next, I sketch out roads and select key places to pique interest. I pass along my scribbles to a very talented friend, Ed Morgan, who makes them look really good!
CML: You’ve received a wealth of support from the greater community for your map projects. How is the new “Mayland Meander” map funded?
Mark: Three tourism development authorities: Mitchell County, Yancey County and Banner Elk are funding this map. Other organizations are partnering
Road Trip” map is out for 2026 since the Blue Ridge Parkway will be rebuilt between Grandfather Mountain and Blowing Rock. This means this very popular section of the Parkway will have closures throughout the year. The new featured loop drive on the map now includes the “Little Parkway Scenic Byway” that follows US 221. This section was part of the Parkway route until the opening of the Linn Cove Viaduct in 1987, and it goes by the entrance to Grandfather Mountain.
CML: And where can people find these maps?
Mark: Digital versions are available for free downloads at HighCountryRoadTrip.com. Paper copies of the “Mayland Meander” are found at Visitor Centers and many area businesses while supplies last.
And CML readers will find a fullsize version of the Mayland Meander map right here in our spring issue on page 75.
Photos by Mark File
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Discover the Quiet Magic of Turtle Island Preserve
By Julie Farthing | Photos courtesy of
The Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina hold secrets whispered on the wind—secrets of deep time, resilient nature, and human intention. While many visitors flock to the welltrod paths and tourist towns of the High Country, a different kind of destination awaits those seeking genuine communion with the wild. Turtle Island Preserve is more than just a piece of land, it continues a family legacy of nature-based, experiential education.
The Preserve is the creation of Eustace Conway, a modern-day frontiersman whose life has been devoted to preserving and teaching a way of life intrinsically tied to the land. In the footsteps of his grandfather, C. Walton “Chief” Johnson, who founded Camp Sequoyah in Weaverville, NC, in 1924, Conway attended and worked at the camp throughout his childhood which inspired his own 1000-acre Turtle Island Preserve.
Stepping onto the property is like crossing a threshold into a simpler, more rugged era. The air is cleaner, scented with pine, woodsmoke, and damp earth. The landscape is a tapestry of steep wooded slopes, clear mountain streams, and fertile bottomlands, all managed with a philosophy that prioritizes ecological health over convenience.
The Preserve’s namesake is significant. “Turtle Island” is the creation story and name for the North American continent
used by many Indigenous peoples. This name evokes a deep respect for the land as a source of life and sustenance, a philosophy that permeates every action at the Preserve. Conway and the community that stewards the land aim to foster an understanding of humanity’s place within the ecosystem, not merely on it.
Turtle Island is not a museum; it is a living teaching space. Here, the emphasis is on doing—on learning the skills that sustained generations of mountain people. While the story of Eustace Conway has played out before us on the popular television series, Mountain Man, Turtle Island Preserve maintains a focus on its core mission: conservation, education, and the practice of simple, meaningful living. It is in this philosophy that Turtle Island offers retreats, camps, and volunteer opportunities to those searching for connection to the mountains themselves. The classrooms are log cabins, open-air kitchens, and shelters built by timber harvested on the land. Visitors find themselves immersed in a curriculum that includes everything from sustainable timber harvesting and natural building techniques to fire-making by friction, basket weaving, campfire cooking, and identifying edible and medicinal plants.
Camp director Carolyn Jordan has been a part of Turtle Island from its earliest days—when it was simply Eustace Conway’s vision—through its develop-
ment, experiencing both its successes and challenges. This long involvement grants her a unique and valuable understanding of the Preserve. She wants all guests to experience the true beauty of Turtle Island:
“At Turtle Island Preserve, we invite folks to see with their eyes, feel with their hearts, and do with their hands in the spirit of community. These simple human attributes can become clouded in today’s culture, which is filled with push buttons and screens. Turtle Island is real and simple, taking both young and old back to life’s simple joys: harvesting a carrot from the garden, building a campfire, watching a crawdad in a clear mountain stream, conversing around a blazing bonfire, learning how to make your own basket and feeling the cool earth beneath your feet. We offer a supportive, intentional environment where guests of all ages can build self-confidence, self-esteem, meaningful connection, and a lasting relationship with the land—guided by mentors whose lives reflect the values they teach.”
On the next page, we provide a listing of spring and early summer events at the Preserve.
For more information on the many opportunities available at Turtle Island Preserve, be sure to check out their website at turtleislandpreserve.org, or find them on Facebook and Instagram.
Turtle Island Preserve
“Today, more than ever, America’s children need contact with the real ‘real,’ instead of the plastic, contrived, and controlled, animated, AI-manipulated, diffused, watered-down, ‘real’ world.
“Turtle Island’s stated motto has for decades been, ‘simply real.’ We love it, and live it; and open our doors to guests who want to touch, taste, and smell the gratifying and substantial real, that has been real forever. The experiential, educational activities, for all ages, give folks meaningful, foundational touchstones of reset, towards healthy directions and values amidst our challenged, unsettled, limited, transitional, modern, culture.
“We at Turtle Island Preserve share real experiences with our guests, based on the ancient nature of our planet, and our traditional, cultural, proven, mountain lifestyles.”
— Eustace Conway, Founder of Turtle Island Preserve
Spring Events at Turtle Island Preserve
Families Learning Together | May 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FLT is Turtle Island Preserve’s annual spring fundraiser to promote sustainable and natural living through the teaching of earth skills from a wide range of instructors. It is a wonderful opportunity to return to nature and connect with skilled artisans and teachers who will be demonstrating primitive skills and crafts, while enjoying live mountain music, witnessing examples of historic building practices, and joining demonstrations in food, blacksmithing, woodworking, knives, survival, blade sharpening, plant foraging and so much more. A special area will focus on kids, with storytelling, flute music, drumming and puppets. This outdoor, rain or shine, fundraiser benefits upgrading the preserve’s facilities and expanding programs and camp scholarships for its summer camps. turtleislandpreserve.org/familieslearning-together
Wildheart
Women’s Retreat | May 14-17
Wildheart Women’s Retreat is an invitation to find your path back home to yourself, to be quiet with the beautiful land that encompasses Turtle Island Preserve, and to connect with other women in a supportive, caring community setting. Develop skills in broom making, basketry, medicine making, off-grid cooking and nourishment, and fire making. Other areas of focus may include movement/yoga, bodywork, breathing, herbs/medicinal plants, edible plants, cordage, fox walking & wide-angle vision, and dancing. turtleislandpreserve.org/wildheartretreat
Mending: A Sewing Survival Intensive May 23, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Mending: A Sewing Survival Intensive is an immersive, hands-on sewing and repair intensive focused on low-tech, hand-based mending practices rooted in Appalachian and working-class traditions. In an era of climate instability, supply chain fragility, and disposable consumer culture, this workshop treats sewing not as a hobby, but as a survival skill. Participants will learn foundational hand-sewing techniques for extending the life of everyday garments and gear—without the use of machines or electricity. Emphasis will be placed on adaptability, repair triage, and making do with limited materials. turtleislandpreserve.org/ mending-a-sewing-survival-intensive
Boys & Girls Camps | June 14-20 (Boys); June 28-July 3 (Girls)
Turtle Island Preserve’s unique overnight summer camps offer natural living experiences and exceptional outdoor education. At the Boys Camp, campers are taught to appreciate the finer things in life: the beauties and wonders of nature, the value of health and strength, the fellowship of true friends, the essential worth of high ideals and sound character. “We are here to help boys become balanced young men.”
Girls Camp delights the senses and awakens deeper callings. Campers work together to gather and collect items found in nature to create beautiful works of art and useful tools that will last a lifetime. From making natural dyes and ink from walnuts, to hafting their own tools, Girl-Power is a cornerstone of the program. “We are here to help girls become empowered with self-confidence.”
No.16 at Sugar Mountain Golf Club is ready for April 17th opening after total destruction at the hands of Helene.
High Country Golf Whole Again
By Tom McAuliffe
It’s been 19 months since Hurricane Helene changed the High Country mountain scape forever. Yet this spring marks a season of renewal for your favorite golfing grounds. Save for the Mount Mitchell Golf Club in Yancey County, which was completely destroyed at the hands of Helene, a promising golf season lies ahead. Sugar Mountain Golf Club rolls out a new enhanced look April 17. The Elk River Club, the first Nicklaus Signature course in the Carolinas, completed in 1985, trots out its new finery May 1 after a total rebuild directed by Nicklaus Design Team and TruGreen course builders. At Hound Ears Club, the spirit of resilience is evident as the course was already undergoing renovation when Helene hit and the Watauga River raged. The multi-year vision will be showcased April 24 with enhancements for playability, and a renewed experience that complements the club’s classic mountain character along the Watauga River. The rains and winds are gone, and prospects have never been brighter.
PUBLIC COURSES
n Boone Golf Club Boone, NC
Plans to “re-purpose” the iconic golf course (residential housing, Topgolf style driving range, and reconfigured seven-hole short course) ran up against zoning issues and community-wide objections, leaving the popular public course as it was intended since its christening 67 years ago.
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 | boonegolfclub.com
n Mountain Glen Golf Club Newland, NC
Opening on schedule last April having dodged Helene’s wrath, this public treasure has never shined brighter.
Robert Nowak, PGA
Architect George Cobb
Grass roots creation modeled after Boone GC success in 1965. A ‘play everyday’ kind of mountain layout.
828-733-5804 | Mountainglengolfclub.com
n Sugar Mountain Golf Club Sugar Mountain, NC
Excitement with April 17 opening marking the first time all 18-holes ready to play since Helene. Complete bunker restoration and many new tee boxes complete enhancements.
Tom McAuliffe, Golf Director
Architect Frank Duane
Dynamite par 64. Everyman’s golf club in a land of giants. 828-898-6464 | seesugar.com
n 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 | mountmitchellgolf.com
n Willow Valley Boone, NC
The nine-hole sleeper a great stretch of the legs begs to bring the old stick bag out of mothballs. Great value.
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
n Mountain Aire Golf Club West Jefferson, NC
Ashe County favorite first to open post-Helene March 10 of last year. Great public option.
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 his 14th season at the helm.
336-877-4716 | Mountainaire.com
n Grassy Creek Golf Club Spruce Pine, NC
New ownership of Mitchell County layout deserving of Good Citizen Award. Rebuilt driving range, exceptional food service, and a track with loads of character, and driven greens crew led by Scott Watson formerly of Linville GC, mark great improvement.
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 | grassycreek.com
RESORT CLUBS WITH LODGING ACCESS TO GOLF
n Jefferson Landing Country Club & Resort Jefferson, NC
The High Country’s northernmost course open for play this spring.
Dan Stepnicka, PGA
Architect Larry Nelson/Dennis Lehmann
Course access for members and on-site lodgers—great golf getaway for your group.
Outside play welcome per space available. Call for tee times. Beautiful Ashe County classic. Clubhouse dining. 1-800-292-6274 | visitjeffersonlanding.com
Hound Ears No. 11. This exquisite hole runs alongside the Watauga River and received the most refurbishment after Helene.
n Linville Land Harbor, Linville
Elk River Club's fully restored No. 15. One of their extraordinary signature holes.
The back nine here ravaged by the Linville River, but club had scheduled new irrigation system and made the best of the unexpected interruption of Helene; now better than ever.
Donnie Davis—Golf Director
Architects Tom Jackson (A-9 Ernie Hayes)
Long-time private enclave between Linville and Pineola open to public.
Fabulous putting surfaces.
828-733-8325 | linvillelandharbor.com
PRIVATE CLUBS/MEMBERS AND GUESTS ONLY
Some clubs below may offer short-term rental membership privileges with club or member sponsorship.
n Hound Ears Club Blowing Rock, NC
Beautifully laid out in the Watauga River Valley, Helene did her best to wreak havoc on the banks of the Watauga. But members had already socked away funds for a scheduled enhancement program directed by architect Kris Spence and went straight to work and had the course opened in short order and better than before.
Peter Rucker, PGA, App State alum begins 44th year at fabled club.
Architect George Cobb
Revisions Tom Jackson
Kris Spence Golf Design
A very special and playable golf course.
828-963-4321 | houndears.com
n Beech Mountain Club Beech Mountain, NC
The ridgetop beauty escaped serious damage and opens Mother’s Day Weekend.
Jason ‘Catfish’ Hildreth, PGA
Architect Willard Byrd
New golf director Hildreth trades Carolina low country for Eastern America’s Highest Town at 5,506’. Ridge Top layout with views of five states, including Kentucky when the Blue Moon is full. Members only and accompanied guests.
828-387-4208 ext. 201 | beechmtnclub.org
n Grandfather Golf & Country Club—Linville, NC
Four bridges washed away, rebuilt in time for May opening. Riverbanks restoration striking. Still the “Grand Daddy.”
Jonah Cox, PGA
Architect Ellis Maples
828-898-4388
n Blowing Rock Country Club Blowing Rock, NC
This jewel dodged trouble and enjoys regular opening day this May.
Andrew Glover, PGA
Architect Donald Ross, Seth Raynor
Revisions Tom Jackson and more recently by Ross specialist Kris Spence a big hit.
828-295-3171
n Elk River Club Banner Elk, NC
The Elk River devastated Nicklaus’ first signature design in North Carolina and membership elected to close for 2025 as the Nicklaus Design Group directed complete rebuild. Proved propitious as this classic refined to a new level of playability.
Dave Ambrose, PGA
Architect Jack Nicklaus/Bob Cupp
828-898-9773
n Linville Ridge Club Linville, NC
Lost trees to Helene beyond ability to count them all. Ultimately improved unmatched mountain views and quality of turf, which was beyond beautiful anyway.
Matt Benton, PGA
Architect George Cobb Revisions Bobby Weed 828-742-4140
“Eastern America’s Highest Golf Course”
n Diamond Creek Banner Elk, NC
Words cannot adequately do justice for the Fazio creation.
Alex Totusek, PGA
Architect Tom Fazio
828-898-1800
n Linville Golf Club—Linville, NC
The Ross classic was in midst of greens reconstruction as Helene arrived but project complete and a new day with May opening. Longtime pro and club manager Tom Dale retired, new man Alex Delcamp in charge. Golf Director Bill Stines retires after great career with Adam McLaughlin taking the reins with new head pro Ben Nichols.
Architect Donald Ross—Revisions Robert Trent Jones, Sr., Bobby Weed.
Josh Smith, formerly with Elk River, bolsters greens crew. Longtime public access to historic Eseeola Lodge now for member and guests only.
Spring comes to the ancient spine of the Southern Appalachians in fits and starts, with winter reluctant to release its chill grasp on the land. It fits perfectly into a typically pithy comment from Mark Twain in which he reckoned “in the spring I have counted 136 kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.” Hill folks may or may not have read Twain, but they have long known that you can’t trust March when it comes to weather. They also consider April a bit of a shady character in that regard as well, while May’s arrival signals much more stability.
To understand what transpires in these months before the embrace of May finally arrives and wraps her quilt around the natural world with welcome warmth, you have to use your senses of sound and smell along with watching for visual manifestations of the earth’s reawakening. The calendar has something, but not a lot, to do with it. Instead, it is subtle signs—the arrival of flocks of robins busily and noisily flitting here at there, the floor of the forest seeming as it is almost breathing, the cheery “pretty, pretty” song of cardinals at daybreak, the lusty gobble of a turkey declaring dominion to all within earshot as night gives way to light, rhododendron leaves no longer curling upon themselves, a melodious change in the whispering voice of branches and small creeks, swelling buds on early wildflowers such as bloodroot and Mayapple, and much more—forming spring’s true harbingers.
Perhaps there’s a hidden message in the fact that much of the folklore of spring employs the word “winter” associated with early flowering of early plants. Any old-timer mountaineer worth his salt is familiar with, in the order of their appearance, Redbud Winter, Dogwood Winter, Locust Winter, and Blackberry Winter. Only when the cold spell associated with the last of these ends, that wonderful mountain bramble that eventually yields delectables such as cobblers, jams, jellies, and the delight that is blackberry cornbread, can the astute reader of High Country signs reckon tender garden plantings can be deemed safe from killing frost. Until that glad moment though, there’s discernible information, along with no small element of delight, to be derived from reading the signs of spring. Nature’s book is wide open, but to read it you have to take your time, pause and ponder the manner of our highly observant forebears as you contemplate the messages conveyed by the world around you. In a world filled with wonders there’s always one more wonder to see, smell, or hear.
Evenings linger a bit longer and light grows a bit stronger with each passing day. Creeks run high and cold, but the ice is gone and astute anglers know it won’t be long until trout break from winter’s doldrums and eagerly feed on newly hatched insect life. On the hillsides maples blush with a red, bright as a boy’s ears after his first swim, come mid-May. At one’s feet bluets, bright as a cloud-free sky and speckled with dainty yellow centers stolen from the sun, suggest serenity while providing beauty. These are small things, easy to miss yet filled with bliss. As unpredictable March gives way to
By Jim Casada
temperamental April, there are days when you can comfortably sit on the porch, a cup of coffee or hot chocolate in hand, watching evening’s shadows creep across the land. Mayhap you’ll hear a chorus of peepers, as moving in spring as katydid song is come September. Deep within your innermost being realization dawns that there are still better days ahead, never mind that for now the only constant is inconstancy. For our wise forefathers, that was enough. They knew good times were coming, and they understood patience and the virtue of waiting.
Still, for good measure, they followed the signs of the Zodiac for planting, took their spring tonics, and gave thought and voice to rhythmic “sayings” that had stood the test of time. Those tidbits of wisdom may seem whimsical, but I reckon close contemplation of the sampling below suggests otherwise.
n March snow is as good as manure.
n March is like a knife’s edge—its cold can cut to the quick and its warmth can soothe the soul.
n When March has April weather, April will have March weather.
n When April features a constant chill, come October the barn we’ll fill.
n A moist April means a clear June.
n He who doffs his coat on a winter day, will gladly don it in the month of May.
n Mist in May, heat in June, makes a fine harvest come right soon (or the variant below).
n A dry May and wet June will make a fine harvest come quite soon.
n A wet May brings many a load of hay.
n Rime ice on May 1 means bounty when summer’s done.
n A dry June fills the farmer with cheer while a wet one says “winter’s near.”
n When June brings thunder by night, corn grows tall by morning’s light.
n A June day dawning cool with silvery dew means fair days ahead is surely true.
n Hot days in June mean berries sweet but small, and creeks trickle with a soft call.
Spring is a time of reawakening of the earth and human spirits. It rewards attention while reminding us to slow down, take notice of the greening-up world, and put deep trust in the message that nature is sending. If you do this, year after year, spring never fails to keep its promise and the observant mountain soul reaps rich rewards from this time of wonder and renewal.
Jim Casada, a full-time freelancer and the author of numerous books, currently has a work profiling some three dozen mountain characters in house with the University of Tennessee Press and is working on an anthology featuring old mountain chronicler John Parris’s columns on regional foodways and recipes. www.jimcasadaoutdoors.com.
The Historic Banner Elk School is located at
Azalea Circle Downtown Banner Elk,
Visiting the High Country in 1922
By Michael C. Hardy
These days, we zip around all over the place. We jump into our cars and head to the grocery store or the doctor’s office. We go to work and school each day. As long as the road is clear of snow and the car starts, we don’t really think about how we get from point A to point B. If we really want to go “out,” we head to Asheville, Hickory, or Johnson City. We even have apps that will tell us each turn to make along our journey if we are going someplace unfamiliar.
That was not always the case. Until well into the 20th century, most people in the area traveled rarely, and when they did, they walked, rode a horse, or traveled in a wagon along the sometimesimpassable roads. Although interest grew in better roads, it was often still quite an adventure to reach the High Country.
In the early 20th century, many businesses across the country formed Booster Clubs. These clubs were often made up of volunteers who wanted to open up new markets for their goods and services. They would frequently visit other locations and pass out advertisements about those services.
In 1922, the Johnson City Boosters loaded 25 “touring cars” with advertising materials about Johnson City and embarked on a promotional tour of Carter, Avery, Watauga, Mitchell, and Yancey counties.
They reached Elizabethton first, on October 6, where the local brass band played them in. From there they set out for Elk Park, passing through Hampton and Roan Mountain first. From Elk Park, they visited Cranberry, Heaton, and Banner Elk.1 In Banner Elk, Edgar Tufts addressed the Boosters as they arrived.2 Leaving Banner Elk, they visited Valle Crucis, where they spent the night. The next day, they traveled to Boone and Blowing Rock before returning to Avery County where stops included Linville, Newland, Minneapolis, and Plumtree. From there, the party headed to Burnsville, then backtracked to Spruce Pine where the group separated. A few members made their way to Asheville, but the majority returned to Johnson City.3
B.B. Dougherty, president of the Appalachian State Teacher’s College, addressed the Boosters in Valle Crucis. Dougherty reminded the guests that Tennessee had once been a part of North
Someone from the community has captured the attention of the crowd in this image from the 1922 Booster Club
Carolina. He went on to outline the $17 million that the state was spending to educate children, as well as funds spent on disease prevention, road upgrades, and pensions for Confederate soldiers. There were furniture and textile plants across the state. North Carolina, as a whole, was “one of the most progressive states in the world.”4 In Boone, W.R. Lovill addressed the crowd, then introduced one of the local businessmen to speak. Students marveled at the cars, and there was also music.5
In Burnsville, an informal reception was held in the courthouse, with the Mayor speaking. Two different concerts were given, one in the evening when they first arrived and another the next morning as they departed. 6 The Spruce Pine Fair was going on when the Boosters arrived, and they were greeted by the president of the fair, the Hon. W.L. Lambert. 7
One of the Johnson City businessmen who participated in the trips told the Johnson City Chronicle that better roads were needed to connect western North Carolina and east Tennessee. Local people “want to come here and do their trading; but they simply can’t get over the roads unless something is done.” 8
Good roads and new markets were hot topics in the first couple of decades of the 20th century. Those Boosters would probably be amazed at the way their hopes have been realized each time we hop in the car and head to town.
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, will be released by the History Press in the spring of 2026.
1,3,7,8 (Johnson City Chronicle, October 7, 1922)
2 (Johnson City Staff-News, January 7, 1923)
4 (The Charlotte Observer, October 22, 1922)
5 (The News and Observer, October 11, 1922)
6 (Asheville Citizen-Times, October 20, 1922; Johnson City Chronicle, October 7, 1922)
Burleson’s Store in Plumtree was famous even before a movie was filmed there.
The town of Boone was one of the places where the October 1922 group stopped.
The cars of the Johnson City Boosters travel on an unknown road in the mountains.
ride through the High Country.
All photos courtesy of Michael C. Hardy
“They Never Gave Up”: Inside a Foster Care Model That Restores Families
By Angela Bollo-Higgins, Crossnore’s Regional Director of Community Engagement
Sunlight streams through Erin Westberry’s living room window as she sips from her coffee cup. With the kids in school, the house is quiet for one more hour, but errands and chores await to prepare for their return home.
Erin is a seasoned foster parent in western North Carolina who knows firsthand the joys and challenges of supporting children involved in the child welfare system. As a professional foster parent with Crossnore Communities for Children, she has embraced an innovative new model aimed at bringing families back together.
“Bridging Families brings a lot of hope to kids, a lot of hope to parents, and a lot of hope to the system,” Erin said, “providing a sturdy pathway toward reunification for families. Along the way, we provide all the support and resources they need.”
In 2025, the NC Department of Health and Human Services selected Bridging Families as the state model for professional foster parenting. The program is gaining strong momentum in western North Carolina, in particular. As of early 2026, 72 percent of the state’s 18 Bridge homes were located in the westernmost counties.
“Bridge Parents,” like Erin, are highly trained professionals who live with and
care for children in homes leased by Crossnore, while actively partnering with birth families toward timely, successful, and permanent reunification. “A huge difference compared to other foster care work is our family-focused approach and wraparound supports that help reunification happen more quickly and successfully,” Erin said. “Another main goal is keeping siblings together. A lot of foster homes cannot take more than one child at a time.”
Caring for multiple foster children who have experienced trauma and family separation can be complex. It often means meeting specialized needs while juggling multiple school schedules, therapy sessions, medical appointments, and coordination with birth parents. “The freedom of doing this as my job means I get to put all my focus and energy into making sure families are taken care of,” Erin said.
A Bridge to Healing
In Polk County, Chris, a father of two, knows what it feels like to be on the receiving end of that support. Last year, his sons were unexpectedly taken into DSS custody after their mother could no longer care for them and a relative who helped with childcare passed away. Suddenly, Chris found himself navigating a
complex and unfamiliar system with little guidance.
“There was no gray area—it felt very black and white,” he said. “At one point, I was afraid I might have to give up. I was trying so hard to get my kids back, but it seemed like there wasn’t anything else I could do.”
Several months later, DSS workers were able to place Chris’ children in a newly opened Crossnore Bridging Families home in Saluda, where he connected with their Bridge Parent, Ms. Art. It was here that the healing began. “We got super close,” Chris recalled. “I was never excluded. I never felt like they were trying to take my kids. Ms. Art showed me how community is a huge part of family life and relationships.”
Erin sees similar experiences, where parents often enter the program from places of trauma and uncertainty. “Kids should be with their parents, and parents should be with their kids,” she said. “But it’s hard when a family might be backed against a wall and just trying to survive.” Bridging Families focuses on shared parenting and communication, Erin stressed, not isolation. Parents remain actively involved and supported throughout the reunification process. “We make sure parents know they are the parent and that what they say matters,” she said.
“Bridging
Families brings a lot of hope to kids, a lot of hope to parents, and a lot of hope to the system.”
“Many are wondering, ‘Am I going to be enough? Am I going to get there?’”
For most parents in Bridging Families, the answer is yes. Around 74% of children have achieved successful permanence and have done so in an average of 7.5 months, compared to children in traditional foster care programs who spend much longer in the system before reunifying or being adopted.
Erin credits the program’s use of Trust Based Relational Intervention and The Sanctuary Model for its success, along with its commitment to honoring and supporting birth parents. “There’s so much freedom for families. In a Bridge home, the door is open for parents to see their kids and be present,” she said.
Today, motivated by incredible love for his kids and dedication to reuniting his family—and with the support of the Bridging Families program—Chris has his sons back, and the family is doing well. After reuniting with his children, he says the program gave him confidence to parent on his own. “They didn’t just listen—they helped me accomplish what I needed to do,” Chris said. “They never gave up on me or my kids.”
To learn more about the Crossnore and the Bridging Families program, visit www.crossnore.org/bridging-families
Support Crossnore Communities with a Visit to Their Avery Campus
Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery represents regional painters, sculptors, and fine craft persons who want to take part in benefiting the children of Crossnore Communities for Children. The gallery specifically supports Crossnore’s Youth Independent Living program, which transitions students from foster care to successful independent living, and the Avery campus Student Work Program.
Crossnore Weavers was established to preserve the Appalachian art of handweaving, to give an economic opportunity to women, and to promote Crossnore Communities for Children through the sale of beautiful hand-woven goods all over the world. Visit the Crossnore Weaving Room, or shop online at crossnore.org/crossnore-weavers/
E.H. Sloop Chapel is well known for its powerful fresco masterpiece, Suffer the Little Children, by Benjamin F. Long, IV, one of only four master fresco artists in the world. The Chapel is open for viewings daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Miracle Grounds Coffee Shop and Café is a great spot to purchase fine coffee, specialty drinks, breakfast, lunch, and dessert to help support the children of Crossnore.
The Blair Fraley Sales Store is one of the largest resale shops in the High Country. When you shop at the Blair Fraley Sales Store, you “help make miracles happen for children in need.”
The profits from all four retail shops benefit Crossnore’s work. Learn more about these locations at crossnore.org.
All photos courtesy of Crossnore Communities for Children
Make sure your heart is in the right place
With three convenient locations in Watauga, Ashe, and Avery counties, accessing comprehensive heart and vascular care has never been easier. Our program offers advanced diagnostic and interventional services, including Heart & Vascular Centers, a state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab, cardiac testing, and rehabilitation programs— all close to home.
If you are at risk for heart disease or heart failure or are experiencing minor symptoms, schedule a consultation today.
Heart & Vascular Center 336 Deerfield Road, Boone, NC 28607
How fortunate we are to be living in the year 2026 to celebrate our country’s beginnings and the brave folks who birthed it!
Thankfully we can remember stories of our brave male ancestors who, as William Page’s American Creed states, “... were American patriots who sacrificed their lives and fortunes.” But what about the names Sarah Bradlee, Esther de Berdt Reed and Lydia Darragh? What are their stories? We must also recognize and honor the courageous contributions of the ladies of the Revolution.
Meet the “Mother of the Boston Tea Party,” Sarah Bradlee Fulton. As an active member of the Daughters of Liberty she was politically aware, and encouraging of her brother, Nathaniel’s, and his friends’ rebellious activities. On most Saturday evenings, the men would gather at the tavern for a codfish supper located beside Sarah’s sewing shop in Boston. Sarah and her sister-in-law are credited with disguising Nathaniel and his compatriots as Mohawks, who then “turned the Boston Harbor into a teapot.” Later, she turned them back into respectable Bostonians. At one point, a spy, hoping to catch Nathaniel Bradlee in his traitorous activities, peered into the window of Sarah’s shop
and saw two women going about their business and thought nothing of it! The results of the “Tea Party” meant that no British tea was to be consumed by the colonists. Sarah and her friends declared raspberry tea and mint tea to be “Liberty Tea” and to be used instead.
Costuming was not her only gift she contributed to the Revolution. Sarah Bradlee actually delivered an important message behind enemy lines to General Washington when her husband was unable to do it. She turned Wade’s Tavern into a field hospital and tended the sick and wounded there. With steady nerves, she removed bullets from the wounded. During the siege of Boston, she and her husband used their own ship to provide American troops with wood and fuel. She is now honored with a monument at the Salem Street Burying Ground commemorating her courageous contributions.
Esther de Berdt Reed, first lady of Pennsylvania, published a pamphlet entitled Sentiments of an American Woman encouraging financial sacrifice and the increased role of women in public service. With Sarah Franklin, Benjamin Franklin’s daughter, she co-founded the Ladies Association of Philadelphia to raise money for resources for George Washington’s
By Trimella Chaney
troops. Through Esther’s hard work, American women throughout the 13 colonies raised $300,000 for the Continental Army. Her husband then wrote to General Washington to tell him about the money and the ladies’ hope that the money would be used as the Continental Army desired. Four days later, a response from General Washington arrived suggesting that they use the money to purchase linen instead! Undeterred, Esther wrote General Washington herself and stated that she and the ladies still hoped that the money would be used on something else. General Washington replied that the funds would be better suited towards clothing because some of the men would misuse the money on things such as alcohol. Esther agreed to buy the linen and to organize a sewing team. The volunteer seamstresses sewed their names into the shirts to show their support for the troops. More than 2,000 shirts were delivered!
Perhaps the bravest of all these patriots is Lydia Darragh. Many people credit her with saving General Washington’s army from an ambush at Whitemarsh in December of 1777. Lydia Darragh’s house was across the street from British
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L-R: Esther de Berdt Reed / Sarah Bradlee Fulton memorial marker, c.1900 / Lydia Darragh giving warning [to Continental Army officer on horseback], Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C. 20540 USA
General William Howe’s headquarters in Philadelphia. When the British officers needed a larger room for an important meeting, they commandeered a room in her house for their secret conference. She was supposed to go to bed and they would wake her when the meeting was over so that she could lock up her house. Instead, she eavesdropped and learned of their plan to ambush Washington’s army.
Within the next two days, she requested and received a pass to leave the city to go to Frankford Mill to buy flour. Once outside the city, she made her way to the Continental Army at Whitemarsh. She passed the important information to Colonel Thomas Craig from Washington’s army, got her flour, and headed back to Philadelphia. That night the British marched on Whitemarsh. Instead of the ambush they intended, they were met by the Continental Army, armed and ready. The British were forced to return to Philadelphia, as one of the British officers wrote, “like a parcel of fools.”
British Intelligence agents became aware of the “bag of flour” trick too late. She was just a poor Quaker woman who was a pacifist and needed flour to feed her family, or so they thought. Lydia Darragh’s wily scheme was successful in passing important information on several occasions to the Continental Army, thereby preparing them for attacks by the British. In 2013 the Sons of the American Revolution created the Lydia Darragh Medal to be awarded to the woman who has provided significant service to the President General of the Sons of the American Revolution.
The Daniel Boone Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recently honored these brave women with a program during Constitution Week and enjoyed some Liberty Tea for the occasion.
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of our nation this year, let us also remember and honor the courage and bravery of our Patriots in Petticoats.
Trimella Chaney is a member of the Daniel Boone Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Two Plaques!
In 2025, the Daniel Boone Chapter of DAR presented two America250 plaques, one at the Museum of Ashe County History, and one at the Hickory Ridge History Museum in Boone. Both museums are open to the public this season.
Davy Davis with Donna McNeil, NC DAR District II Vice Director and Honorary Regent of the Daniel Boone Chapter
DAR, Daniel Boone Chapter Dedicating America250 Plaque at the Hickory Ridge History Museum in Boone
Boston Tea Party, with men in Mohawk costumes, courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C. 20540 USA
Community & Local Business News
Lees-McRae Women’s Teams Boast 3 Big Wins for Cheer, Dance & Basketball
The good luck or magic often associated with the number “three” could not be more evident than in the amazing three big wins by Lees-McRae’s women in the Cheer, Dance and Basketball competitions held at the Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium in Spartanburg, South Carolina, this past March. It was the 2026 Conference Carolinas Spirit and Basketball Championships, and you could almost say Lees-McRae’s women took home a “triple crown” of wins for their school, their Banner Elk community, Lees-McRae alumni, and all their beloved Bobcats fans across the High Country.
First off, Lees-McRae won the Advanced Cheer Divisional Championship held the morning of Saturday, March 7. Shortly after, on that same morning, the Lees-McRae Dance group won the Small Group Dance Divisional competition. Both programs were also runners-up for the cheer and dance Grand Championship.
And, if that wasn’t enough, the LeesMcRae women’s basketball team took to the court and, in a tough competition, captured the 2026 Conference Carolinas Women’s Basketball Championship with a tight 67 to 60 victory over Chowan in the championship final held on Sunday, March 8; this victory secured them a spot in the Division II NCAA Tournament.
Given that March 8—the culminating day of competition—was also International Women’s Day, this three-win sweep could not be sweeter or more meaningful.
Lees-McRae officially toasted the women’s teams posting, “Congratulations to the Lees-McRae Cheer, Dance, and Women’s Basketball on an unforgettable weekend at the 2026 Conference Carolinas Spirit
and Basketball Championships! Your dedication, precision, and energy continue to set the standard and make our community proud. We celebrate your hard work, resilience, and the pride you bring to the Bobcat family. The mountain is proud!” - By Steve York
Mayland Community College Welcomes Dr. Aron Gabriel
When Dr. Aron Gabriel stepped into his role as President of Mayland Community College, he chose not to begin with announcements or plans. Instead, he began by listening—to students talking about their goals, employees from across Mayland describing their work, and community partners sharing what matters most in the region. From classrooms to offices to the maintenance team that keeps everything running, his first priority has been simple: understand the people who make Mayland what it is.
With nearly three decades in education—as a teacher, coach, principal, district leader, and most recently superintendent of Newton-Conover City Schools—Dr. Gabriel has spent his career helping students find opportunity and direction. During his time as superintendent, he led one of North Carolina’s most diverse school districts while expanding workforce partnerships, strengthening academic outcomes, and increasing access to college pathways for high school students. That work, he says, reinforced something he has always believed: when education, community, and opportunity come together, entire regions benefit.
Now at Mayland, he is taking time to learn how those connections already exist across Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties.
In his first months, he has visited campuses, met with students and employees, and spent time with local employers and community leaders—not to present an agenda, but to listen and understand how the college serves the mountain communities it calls home.
“I want to hear directly from the people who experience Mayland every day,” he says. “That’s how you learn what’s working, where support is needed, and how we can serve our students and communities even better.”
During one recent visit, a staff member who is also a Mayland graduate shared a story that stayed with him. She told him her instructors took time to know her as a person before they ever tried to teach her—a simple act of care that, she said, shaped her path and eventually led her to spend more than two decades serving students herself, much of that time at Mayland.
Dr. Gabriel plans to keep meeting, learning, and listening in the months ahead— because for him, leadership doesn’t begin with speaking. It begins with understanding (mayland.edu) - Submitted by Donna Haynes. Photo: Outgoing President Dr. John Boyd presenting the ceremonial mace—the symbol of presidential authority—to Dr. Gabriel, marking the official transition of leadership at Mayland Community College.
Project Dance Update: If You Build It, They Will Come
Two years ago, CML wrote about Project Dance’s ambitious dream to acquire their first permanent facility, and we’re happy to provide our readers with a positive update. Founded in 2003, Project Dance Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Compiled by Steve York and CML Staff
Community & Local Business News
committed to training, education, and performance opportunities that inspire dancers to reach their fullest potential. Cheryl Cutlip, Founder and Executive Director, reports that donors to their “Let’s Move a Mountain” campaign contributed funds for a downpayment on the property located at 755 NC 105 Bypass in Boone.
Just days before they closed on their new facility, Hurricane Helene completely flooded their temporary studios along with two of their rented storage facilities. The indefatigable staff, students, parents, and volunteers quickly pivoted to demolition/ rebuild and, despite losing three weeks of rehearsals, opened their annual holiday production of A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas in early December, in keeping with the legendary idiom, “the show must go on!”
Finally, Project Dance Foundation opened its doors to much acclaim in November 2024 and Cutlip said, “We absolutely love the new facility; it’s already proving to be an incredible asset and serving all our needs beautifully. We have a dance floor that matches the size of the stage at the App Theatre, allowing us to fully rehearse our show in-house while making the transition to that venue seamless for our performers. In addition, we’ve established our own costume shop, which conveniently houses all our production materials, including costumes, shoes, props, and more.”
The campaign continues to pay down the mortgage to ensure a debt-free future for the organization, provide long-term sustainability, and expand their impact for dancers locally and worldwide. Once that debt is eliminated, resources will be redirected to scholarships, community arts programming, and international initiatives, strengthening their mission impact. For more information, or to contribute to their capital campaign, visit ProjectDance.com
By Keith Martin
Be Natural Market Celebrates 10 Years!
“We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.” - Goethe
The celebration of an anniversary is both a recognition of a commitment achieved over time as well as a re-dedication to the continued growth of that commitment. This year, Be Natural Market in Boone celebrates its tenth anniversary as an independent health food store here in the High Country.
When asked about the store’s longevity, owner Dave Reczek remarked, “Our mission to promote and support the health and well-being of our community continues to evolve and flourish. With a special emphasis on organic foods and supplements, Be Natural Market has continually sought to re-think the Natural Health food store business model and the many possibilities that exist to support a healthy lifestyle.”
While they have always offered a variety of alternatives in supplements and health foods, Be Natural Market has now expanded its offerings to include a variety of whole grains and flours that can be purchased so that customers can bake and enjoy their own freshly milled creations.
Co-owner and Store Manager Catherine Reczek has been instrumental in implementing and promoting these offerings. She has even started to hold informational “baking events” within the store on a monthly basis. Customers can ask questions, sample baked goods and get baking ideas for the many types of grains the store offers.
As Catherine explained, “Our mission has remained the same, but our focus has been expanded to include exciting, alternative sources of nutrition. Whole grains are
just another venue of natural alternatives to store bought processed foods. They infuse much needed vitamins, fiber and minerals into our daily diets- and baking is fun!”
Be Natural also continues to expand its offerings in frozen foods, locally sourced produce, meats and dairy as well as cutting edge supplements, natural health and beauty products and home goods. Their patrons also comment on how much they enjoy the selection of greeting cards and gift ideas.
The owners noted, “Of course none of this would be possible without the incredible support Be Natural has received from its many loyal customers.” benaturalmarket. com
Big Awards for Avery Seniors & Phillip Barrier
Thanks to a $5 million state grant, Avery County seniors will be getting a brand-new Senior Center in the Newland area. The former Newland center suffered damage during Hurricane Helene, and a temporary facility in Elk Park has since been serving Avery County seniors.
The grant was awarded through the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Community Development Block Grant –Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) program. And a new facility for seniors is a big deal considering that nearly 25 percent of Avery citizens are at least 65 years old.
Recently retired Avery County Manager Phillip Barrier was quoted as stating the grant couldn’t be timelier. “This significant investment will help us strengthen our communities and improve quality of life for many local families.” Barrier added, “These
funds come at a pivotal time as we continue recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and will make a lasting difference for our community’s future.”
According to County officials, the new Senior Center will provide safer, modernized spaces for meals, programming, social gatherings, wellness activities, and essential support services for seniors. County leaders say the project will also create a welcoming community hub that supports connection and independence for aging residents.
Barrier, who has been a forceful advocate for the county since assuming his very first position with the County Government in 1998, officially retired as County Manager in late January. At his retirement reception, he was also honored with the prestigious North Carolina Order of the Long Leaf Pine award. In presenting the award, county officials noted that Barrier’s leadership had always been measured by “care for the people you served. Care for the employees you led. Care for the community you carried—often quietly, often heavily—on your shoulders… Avery County was blessed by your compassion. You never led from behind a desk. You led with your heart, with humility, and with a steady hand during the moments when this county needed it most.”
Barrier’s role in support of funding for the new Avery County Senior Center further lends credence to his rich legacy of leadership for the county. Information on the construction and projected opening of the new center will be available at averycountync. gov. - By Steve York Photo: Phillip and Renee Barrier
DayCation at Edge of the World
“Exhilarating!” “A total thrill!” “Unforgettable experience of a lifetime!” “Great memories that last forever!” “Wild, wet
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and wonderful ride!” “Too much fun to describe…you have to just do it! And you’ll want to do it again!” “A whole new way to experience nature and the world…from the edge of a cliff or riding the rapids!”
Those are typical comments from people having the time of their lives thanks to outdoor adventures via Edge of the World at 394 Shawneehaw Avenue in Banner Elk. And this time of year is a season rich with white water rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and repelling, all set within some of the most beautiful and breathtaking High Country destinations.
Founded by Jake and April Barrow in 1981, Edge of the World boasts three generations of family operators, with their son, Jake, and his wife Danielle and kids Oliver, Levi and Lydia Barrow, taking over the operation in 2007. And Edge of the World has earned the prestigious Tripadvisor excellence award each year since 2016.
Their professionally guided adventures begin on Memorial Day weekend, May 23, and run through Labor Day. Trips include Class-3 Anaconda white water rafting, as well as thrilling white water kayaking, all down the scenic Watauga River. And/or you can book a magnificent rock climbing and repelling excursion at Little Lost Cove Cliffs in the Wilson Creek Wilderness area, with stunning views of Grandfather Mountain and the cliffs.
Transportation, equipment and complete training for all adventures are provided to ensure maximum safety and enjoyment. And the bonus is April Barrow’s “world famous” freshly home-cooked fried chicken lunch complete with honey basted biscuits, a special trail mix blend and a surprise dessert.
“It’s always been a family run business, and it’s always been an outdoor business focused on introducing the outdoors to families,” said the Barrows, noting an impressive 45 years hosting customers from all over.
The Barrows also advise booking your adventures in advance. Call 828-214-7256 and visit their website at edgeoworld com for further details and to check out their extensive gift shop of Tees, Hoodies, Hats and Drinkware for all ages. - By Steve York
Mountain View Nursery & Landscaping… Ready for Spring Renewal
One of the best ways to enhance your home or business setting is with a professional “landscaper’s touch,” and especially if that landscaper comes with a full-service home and garden center.
For folks in Mountain City, Butler, and the Carter County area of northeastern Tennessee, and even a few locations just over the state line in North Carolina and Virginia, the Go-To place for that level of service is Mountain View Nursery and Landscaping. With their home and garden center in Mountain City and their expansive nursery in Butler, they offer everything you desire to transform and enhance your property.
With over 50 years of professional horticultural experience, Harvey Burniston, together with his wife, Maureen, have created Mountain View Nursery and Landscaping to provide you with a full service company that offers a complete line of plants and gardening products coupled with a stateof-the-art landscaping design and installation service.
Along with a wide variety of nursery items, they offer a great selection of outdoor furniture and décor that you just won’t find at big box stores. Décor and gift items include everything from patio furniture to pergolas, from quality gas fire tables to
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Community & Local Business News
pottery, from arbors to yard art, from flags to gift items and even hand-carved chainsaw bears.
Mountain View Nursery and Landscaping also specializes in creating water gardens and landscaping that blend with the natural beauty of this geographical region. They can even create indoor water fountains to revive and refresh interior rooms, and that can be enjoyed year-round. Plus, they feature a large selection of plants in their nursery and garden center at various levels of maturity to suit your specific design and setting requirements, all available at reasonable prices.
With spring in the air, now is the time to get started with your gardening and landscaping. You can call 423-727-2774, or check out their website at Mtnviewnursery. com. Better yet, visit their beautiful garden center at 1987 S. Shady Street in Mountain City. It’s just a short 20-minute drive from Boone and right on the way to the Virginia Creeper Trail, the Barter Theater or Interstate 81. - By Steve York
Nestled along the beautiful Doe River, Doe River Landing Camping Resort is a peaceful, family-owned destination featuring upscale campsites and thoughtfully appointed cabins, where refined comfort meets natural beauty. Established in 2024 by Craig and Tracy Blake, the resort was created with a clear vision: to offer guests a refined yet relaxed retreat that blends modern luxury with the natural beauty of the Appalachian region.
The heart behind Doe River Landing is rooted in the Blakes’ lifelong love of the outdoors. Avid campers their entire lives, Craig and Tracy Blake spent countless weekends exploring nature and making memories with their three daughters. Those experiences—centered on family, simplicity, and time well spent together—inspired them to create a destination where other families could enjoy the same sense of connection and escape.
Doe River Landing offers a variety of accommodations designed to meet the needs of today’s travelers. The resort’s luxury cabins provide an elevated experience, combining rustic charm with modern amenities. Each cabin is thoughtfully equipped with smart TVs, high-speed internet, and reliable Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected while still enjoying the peace and privacy of a riverfront setting.
For RV travelers, the resort features spacious, well-maintained RV sites directly on the Doe River set within a quiet and scenic environment, ideal for both short stays and extended visits. Outdoor recreation is a core part of the Doe River Landing experience, with onsite hiking trails, trout fishing in the Doe River, and swimming available just steps from each accommodation.
In addition to lodging, Doe River Landing serves as a destination for special gatherings. The event pavilion accommodates up to 50 guests and provides a beautiful setting for intimate weddings, family reunions, retreats, and celebrations surrounded by nature and on the banks of Doe River.
Reservations for cabins, RV sites, glamping studio, and the event pavilion can be made through doeriverlanding.com or by calling (423) 220-3450. Tucked away in a serene town of Roan Mountain, TN, yet just 25 minutes from Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, Doe River Landing offers easy access to year-round mountain adventures while remaining a quiet haven. It’s no surprise guests often describe it as a “little slice of heaven.”
New Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Opens in Sugar Mountain
High Country visitors and vacationers heading towards the Sugar Mountain-Banner Elk area of Avery County will be excited to know of the stunning new 118-room Courtyard by Marriott Sugar Mountain Banner Elk, conveniently located beneath the graceful gaze of Grandfather Mountain in the Tynecastle area of Sugar Mountain. The elegant and towering new hotel sits immediately beside Grandfather Center, home to a variety of restaurants and retail venues, including Lowes Foods, at 3988 NC Hwy 105 (at the intersection of NC Hwys 105 and 184).
The rapidly increasing flow of yearround business and recreational travel to the High Country continues to create growing demands on local communities to provide quality hospitality lodging. So, with their grand opening in March of this year, the new Courtyard by Marriott hotel is perfectly prepared for this year’s numerous spring, summer, fall and winter seasonal travelers heading for the mountains of northwestern North Carolina.
Owned by Sugar Mountain Hospitality, LLC, and co-developed by Clarendon Properties and Commercial Realty Advisors, the new Courtyard by Marriott will be managed by the award-winning Raines Hospitality Company of Florence and Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. Raines is a leading hospitality management, development, and investment organization offering a comprehensive approach to its impressive property portfolio and client base; the company currently has 53 hotels and 5,724 keys throughout the Southeast. “The Courtyard by Marriott Sugar Mountain Banner Elk marks Raines’ continued growth in the Southeast,” notes Raines’ corporate headquarters.
Doe River Landing: ‘A Little Slice of Heaven in Northeastern Tennessee’
Complete with an on-site restaurant, meeting space, indoor pool, fitness center, ski lockers, bar and business center, the hotel offers the full suite of amenities Courtyard by Marriott is known for, serving both business travelers’ work and leisure needs. The property’s location within minutes of Sugar Mountain and Banner Elk adds to its charm. And the walkable mountain village of nearby Banner Elk is known for its cozy atmosphere, local boutiques and restaurants. In addition to its proximity to Grandfather Mountain, the hotel is a short distance from the Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby ski resorts.
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life skills, fostering collaboration and building community, all while sharing the power of the arts to process our human emotions. Her educational mantra is “working with and for each other” and, with that philosophy, thousands of students learned the collaborative skills needed to present entertaining and moving ensemble productions that are greater than the sum of the parts. In the process, they gained valuable performing, technical, and life skills by “getting up, trying, and doing.”
recently, a 2025 Honorable Mention accolade for the Excellence in Theatre Education Tony Award, presented each year by the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League, selected from a field of 2,400 nominees nationwide. - By Keith Martin
For more information or to make reservations, call 828-860-3090 or visit www. marriott.com/en-us/hotels/tribc-courtyardsugar-mountain-banner-elk/. - By
Steve York
Career
After a 31-year teaching career, including over two decades at Watauga High School, Sarah Miller is retiring at the end of the current academic year. She first stepped on stage at the age of eight in the Blue Ridge Community Theatre production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” and remained centerstage her entire life. A member of Trimella “drama mama” Chaney’s original WHS Pioneer Playmakers, Miller returned to her alma mater to succeed her mentor from 2005-26.
Miller “found her groove and her calling” in theatre, developing young people’s talent and creativity, giving students valuable
Her Playmakers traveled to dozens of play competitions across the state and nation, winning the North Carolina Theatre Conference (NCTC) contest four times and receiving superior ratings 20 years in a row. Miller is most proud of the “Outstanding Ensemble” honors received by her troupe, the awards for original works developed by her students, and their recognition for acting, technical, and production skills.
In reflecting on a career that encompassed over 300 stage productions, Miller said, “I really believe that theater is about being a good communicator. Theatre serves the purpose of encouraging young people to express themselves. It is the perfect thing to explore in high school because it gives you self-confidence.”
Miller’s accolades are numerous: fouryear NC Teaching Fellows Scholarship, Fulbright-Hays Scholarship to study in the Dominican Republic, Teacher of the Year Award three times, multiple NCTC Excellence in Directing Awards (including a three consecutive year streak), NCTC K-12 Theatre Arts Educator of the Year and, most
Beth Leavel and David Furr Honored on National Stage
1994 App State grad David Furr and Raleigh native Beth Leavel were top honorees at the 77th Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) in Chattanooga, TN, where over 3,500 members gathered in March. Furr received the SETC Alumni Spotlight and was a featured keynote speaker, having had his first professional acting job at “Horn in the West” in Boone, NC. Leavel received the SETC Distinguished Career Award, the organization’s highest honor, and performed to a standing-room-only audience gathered for her all-convention session. Chartered in 1949, SETC is the strongest and broadest network of theatre practitioners in the U.S.
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Sarah Miller Retires After Award-Winning
Furr is a Tony, Drama Desk, and SAG Award–nominated actor with experience across Broadway, Off-Broadway, television, film, regional theatre, voiceover, and audiobook narration. His Broadway credits include “King Lear,” “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” “Noises Off,” “Burn This,” “The Rivals,” “Accent on Youth,” and “Cymbeline.” A veteran of over half of Shakespeare’s canon, David received both the Falstaff and Actors’ Equity’s Bayfield Awards for his Shakespeare in the Park performances. On screen, David portrays Dashiell Montgomery on HBO’s The Gilded Age (SAG nomination), with recurring roles on The Man in the High Castle, Bull, TURN: Washington’s Spies, Mr. Mercedes, Odd Mom Out, and with film credits including Evening, 13 Hours, The Highwaymen, The Sounding, and A Long Winter. David has a passion for teaching and is on the faculty at UNC-Greensboro.
Leavel is a Tony Award-winning stage and screen star who came to Boone for a master class on musical theatre auditions for Appalachian students. Her career spans 15 Broadway shows, along with national tours, television, and film. For the title character in “The Drowsy Chaperone,” Beth received Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and LA Drama Critics Awards. She also received Tony, New York Outer Critics Circle and other nominations for her roles as Dee Dee Allen in “The Prom” and Florence Greenberg in “Baby, It’s You.” On Broadway, Beth originated the roles of The Duchess in “Lempicka,” June Adams in “Bandstand,” Emily in “Elf,” Mrs. Bixby in “The Civil War” and Tess in “Crazy For You,” and her other Broadway credits include Stephen Sondheim’s “Old Friends,” “Mamma Mia!,” “Young Frankenstein,” Hal Prince’s “Show Boat,” and the original and revivals of “42nd Street.”
act of kindness. An individual recognizing a need for a family. Fulfilling the need anonymously with the tag “Quiet Giver” became the fertile soil for a group of concerned neighbors, parents and community members who donated anonymously to help fulfill needs identified by school personnel and concerned others. Amber Bateman, the first Quiet Giver, served as founder and director for many years. In 2015, Quiet Givers secured its 501(c)(3) non-profit status.
In 2025, 334 needs in Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties were filled by Quiet Givers. “We work in collaboration with over 54 nonprofits, churches and government agencies in our community,” shared Angela Harmon Loos, Executive Director of Quiet Givers.
Because the organization receives no federal or state funding, only private donations from individuals, businesses and local grants, Quiet Givers can accept needs from vetted clients of other organizations and often meet a specialized request in a timely period. “Our model is designed for maximum efficiency, trust and security. We pride ourselves on a rapid, reliable response. We rely on our partnering organizations to have vetted an identified need, found resources that are available and then the client might be referred to us either to complete the request, or help provide
a response to a need that state or federal funding restrictions would not allow,” Loos explained. “We utilize our website postings and social media to raise needed funds, guaranteeing total anonymity for the clients, and donors, if desired.”
Loos, raised in the Bethel Community in Western Watauga County, experienced caring for others from the adults in her family. “We shared what we had with others in need. We were neighbors helping neighbors.” Loos returned to the High Country in 2024 and first intersected with Quiet Givers as a donor. The mission of the organization matched the care ethic with which she was raised. “I first joined the board and then became Executive Director when Melissa Soto retired. I bring my background in IT and solving technical problems to helping solve human ones.”
Honored with the 2025 Spirit of Philanthropy award by the Watauga County Community Foundation, Quiet Givers continues to live their mission statement: Connecting Communities. Changing Reality. The 334 needs met in 2025 touched over 846 lives in Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties. Needs like providing gas cards for a mother to take her child to medical treatments in Winston Salem. Or the gentleman whose oxygen concentrator stopped working and insurance would not fund a replacement. Without his concentrator, the
By Pan McCaslin
man was unable to leave his home or attend needed medical appointments. “Our Quiet Givers community raised $500 in just two days to replace the broken equipment,” stated Loos.
Quiet Givers not only accepts monetary donations, but is able to accept items such as appliances, air conditioning units, heaters and medical equipment that are still in good condition. Recently a family in Watauga County donated a large amount of medical equipment they no longer needed. Loos found out that the Avery County EMS was looking for used medical equipment. Quiet Givers was able to pass along the equipment to start a medical supply closet for the Avery County EMS Community Paramedicine Program. “I’m amazed to see the generosity of our neighbors here in the High Country as we reach out to support each other.”
When asked how the community could best support Quiet Givers, Board President Stephen McDaniel shared, “Spread the word. Tell others about the good work Quiet Givers carries out for so many. Go to our website. It’s full of resources and agencies that are making a difference for so many.” Quiet Givers does not accept direct requests from individuals. They work with
Community Paramedic
Jared Stafford and Quiet Givers’
Angela Harmon Loos
organizations who have vetted the clients to find any available resources. “We practice collaboration, cooperation and creativity to best serve the needs of our neighbors,” Loos reflected.
To support Quiet Givers this season, visit the website www. quietgivers.org and follow their social media posts on Instagram and Facebook. Donate money as you are able, support their annual Heat Up the High Country fundraiser, and participate in local gatherings. Encourage your social and service organizations to support Quiet Givers or invite them to speak to your group. Volunteer to serve on the Board. When asked, one anonymous donor shared their reason for donating: “I think I was drawn to people in whom I could see myself, and so probably felt deeper empathy—like young moms just trying to raise their children.”
Quiet Givers is presented with the 2025 Spirit of Philanthropy award by the Watauga County Community Foundation.
Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary
Receives
Major Gift
Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary is an equine rescue which focuses on abandoned, abused and unwanted horses, ponies and donkeys. The 501(c) (3) organization recently received a $100,000 gift from Ginny Burton of Banner Elk, NC, and Wellington, FL. The donation will enable Southern Sun Farm Horse Rescue to build a new centrally located, nine-stall barn on its existing property adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway, near Glendale Springs.
Ginny Burton, an experienced and avid horsewoman herself, selected Southern Sun Farm due to their excellent reputation in the High Country and a proven track record of saving horses. “My primary experience has been in the show world but John and Ann [Lisk] simply don’t care about breeding and pedigree, they care about the horses.”
The new facility will be named the Ginny Burton Horse Rescue Barn, in honor of Ginny’s passion for horses, her community and her dedication to give back. Learn more, and find out how you, too, can help at southernsunfarm.com.
Shipley Farms Honored
Late last year, Shipley Farms in Vilas, NC, was named “Farm Family of the Year” at the Watauga County Farm City Banquet for their work in soil conservation. “Healthy soil is the foundation of the top-quality beef we raise, and we
are so proud of our team caring for the land for generations,” notes the Shipley family. They were also recently recognized with a “Lake Friendly Farm Award,” which recognizes agricultural operations that implement conservation practices to protect water quality, such as reducing erosion, managing nutrients, and creating buffer zones. This designation highlights farmers who demonstrate environmental stewardship, particularly in preventing runoff into local lakes and watersheds. You can see their practices for yourself by signing up for a Cattle Feeding Tour or a Guided Walking Tour at shipleyfarmsbeef.com/book-a-farm-tour
Reid’s Café Nominated for James Beard Foundation Award Alek Schober, Reid’s talented Food & Beverage Director, was recently named a semifinalist for the 2026 James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Southeast. This noteworthy nomination was bestowed by a guest, who wrote, “I have visited many restaurants from small diners to James Beard award winners, but Chef Alek Schober and Reid’s Café consistently draw me back. Alek, his wife Jessica, Reid’s house manager, and owner Tina Houston have designed a casual, open space that greets each customer with a relaxed, inviting environment.” The guest went on to add, “Alek’s expertise, forward thinking talents, consistency in delivery, and natural insight into delectable tastes and adventurous plating make Reid’s Café a little gem where diners can feast on the seasonal tastes of Appalachia
in Western North Carolina and feel a part of it all.” Owner Tina Houston also received a nomination, highlighting her dedication to community, sustainability, and quality, working alongside Chef Schober. Congratulations to Reid’s Café!
Spring at the Banner Elk Book Exchange
The Banner Elk Book Exchange is a community-based, volunteer-run book exchange for Banner Elk and Avery County, operating on a “bring a book, take a book” policy. Located at the Historic Banner Elk School, the Book Exchange is a hub of activity, with educational and literary events taking place throughout the year.
The BE NOW (Banner Elk Night Owl Writers) Writers’ Group welcomes poets, short story writers and novelists to share and enjoy written works on the last Thursday of each month.
Book Discussion Groups are open to anyone interested in participating and discussing literature, every second Tuesday of each month.
A Lecture Series, hosted by Appalachian State Professor Karl Campbell, will be held on select Tuesday evenings and will feature talks and book signings by several prominent experts and authors, including:
• June 9, Karl Campbell, “Senator Sam Ervin: The Humor of a Country Lawyer”
• June 23, Tim Silver, Death in Briar Bottom: The True Story of Hippies, Mountain Lawmen, and the Search for Justice in the Early 1970s
• July 7, Lee Rankin, Farm Family: A Solo Mom’s Memoir of Finding Home, Happiness, and Alpacas
• August 4, Judkin Browning, An Environmental History of the Civil War
For the children in your life who are interested in nature and science, come check out the Explorers’ Room, which houses a collection of science-based books, puzzles, games and activities for kids of all ages. Children ages 7-11 are invited to participate in a free monthly, hands-on “Explorers Club,” held on select Tuesday afternoons year-round. See the Book Exchange Calendar for more details at bannerelkbookexchange.com.
Chef Alek Schober and owner Tina Houston of Reid’s Cafe & Catering in Sugar Mountain/Banner Elk.
Farm Tours at Shipley Farms
Explorers Room at the BE Book Exchange
CAROLINA
FUNdraisers Throughout the High Country Fine dining, music, dancing, entertainment, auctions, raffles—all for great causes! Support our excellent non-profit organizations by registering to attend their always-delightful annual fundraisers. Space is limited, so plan ahead! Here are just a handful on the horizon...
The WAMY Denim and Diamonds fundraiser will be held on Thursday, May 28 at The White Crow in Banner Elk, NC. “Proceeds help fight poverty in Watauga, Avery, Mitchell and Yancey counties.” Learn more and register at wamycommunityaction.org
The Watauga Humane Society Fur Ball Gala returns Saturday, June 13 at the Grandview Ballroom at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone. “Join us for an evening that celebrates the animals, the people who care for them, and the community that makes this work possible.” Learn more and register at wataugahumane.org
Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge presents their Power of the Purse Luncheon on Thursday, June 25 at the Grandview Ballroom at App State. This year’s speaker is Joan Lunden, “an award-winning journalist, bestselling author, motivational speaker, and advocate for women’s health and wellness.” Learn more and register at facebook.com/WFBlueRidge/.
Avery Humane Society’s FurRaiser will be held on Thursday, June 25 at Appalachian View in Newland. “Join us for an unforgettable evening of dancing with Mohr Fun Entertainment, gourmet food
catered by Stonewalls, Wine Pull, Raffles, and a live auction, all to support Avery County’s animals in need.” Learn more and register at averyhumane.org.
Penland School of Craft will hold its 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
The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s ninth annual Denim Ball (pictured left) takes place on Thursday, Sept. 3, at Camp Yonahnoka at the Linville Golf Club. “The event features dinner, drinks, dancing, and live and silent auctions to raise funds for repairs and improvements at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Blowing Rock.” Learn more and register at brpfoundation.org
Gunther Jochl Receives N.C. Tourism’s Winner’s Circle Award
After leading Sugar Mountain Ski Resort for nearly 50 years, owner Gunther Jochl (pictured center) was recently honored with the Winner’s Circle Award during the 2026 Visit North Carolina Tourism Conference. At the ceremony, Mr. Jochl first gave special thanks to his wife, Kimberley, “who is an integral part of the operation and the success of Sugar Mountain Resort.” He went on to recognize two additional key people, “Erich Schmidinger, who’s been with me at Sugar Mountain for 30 years. And my son, Andrew, who joined us in 2015. It’s all about a great team,” he added.
The Winner’s Circle Award is a celebration of leaders who have made significant contributions to the success and growth of North Carolina’s travel and hospitality industry. Award recipients are nominated by the North Carolina tourism industry and selected by the team at Visit NC. Learn more at visitnc.com/ mountains and skisugar.com
A New Generation at Brinkley Hardware Family patriarch A.P. Brinkley opened Brinkley’s General in Elk Park, NC, in 1903, and there has been a Brinkley at the helm ever since. At its founding, it had a bit of everything that might be needed by an isolated farming community. After World War II, as prosperity returned and electricity came to the region, second generation owner Bill Brinkley saw an opportunity to diversify. When the store passed to son Steve Brinkley, now 84, he kept the store’s rich history intact while gradually adding to the inventory and updating the infrastructure. Steve Brinkley finally decided to retire, and today, the store continues to be under the Brinkley name—it’s now under the ownership of Taylor Lunsford.
While much will stay the same, Lunsford, who spent many summers of her youth hanging out at the store, will focus on “doing what we need to do to modernize, but keeping the experience and feel the same,” she noted in a recent interview with the Avery Journal. See for yourself what’s new (and what’s old) at Brinkley Hardware, located in downtown Elk Park on Lower Street.
Save the Date: Blue Ride Brutal Returns
Online registration is currently open for the popular Ashe County event, Blue Ridge Brutal, now in its 36th year. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, August 15. The Blue Ridge Brutal Bike Ride takes serious riders through some of the most beautiful scenery in North Carolina. Routes include 100, 70, 50 or 25 miles, and the race begins in front of the Museum of Ashe County History (1904 Courthouse) in Jefferson. Blue Ridge Brutal’s proceeds benefit the group’s scholarship fund for graduating seniors. More information can be found at blueridgebrutal.org and on the event’s Facebook page.
C.A.S.T. for Kids Event on June 6 at Lake Hickory
C.A.S.T. for Kids events are designed to provide children with special needs (minimum age 6) the opportunity to enjoy a quality outdoor recreational experience through the sport of fishing. “Join us for an unforgettable morning of fishing, boating, and celebrating amazing children!” Events are free for children to attend, and all children leave with their very own fishing equipment. Children must be accompanied by their parent/guardian for the entire event. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. Sponsorships are also available. Register at castforkids.org/event/lake-hickory/
Discover Doe River Gorge
Experience Premier Summer Camps for ages 8-18 at Doe River Gorge! Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and only 30 minutes from Newland, NC, Doe River Gorge offers fun and adventure. Explore their beautiful campus with three miles of white-water river, pristine wilderness, an historic railroad, and unsurpassed facilities. “We offer over fifty thrilling activities, hands-on learning, fabulous meals, exceptional staff, lasting friendships, personalized attention and instruction, with a Christ-centered focus.”
Registration is now open; for more information, visit doerivergorge.com. The property is located at 220 Doe River Gorge Road in Hampton TN. 423-725-4010
Food Carts for Feeding Avery Families
Earlier this year, Feeding Avery Families (FAF) received a generous donation of shopping carts from Food Lion of Banner Elk. “This thoughtful contribution will greatly support our daily operations and help us serve our neighbors with dignity and efficiency,” notes FAF staff. Food Lion also donated a total of 40,000+ pounds of food in 2025 to the FAF Food Pantry.
Last year, Feeding Avery Families provided 600,000 pounds of food to our neighbors in need—enough groceries to create half a million individual meals—with a value of $1.2 million! Are large group of volunteers are key to the mission, having contributed nearly 15,000 volunteer hours in 2025. Learn more about volunteering, and read their 2025 Impact Report at feedingaveryfamilies. og/2025-impact-report/.
The UPS Store Opens in the High Country! There’s now another option in town to help you with your packing, shipping, printing, shredding, scanning and more!
The UPS Store - Grandfather Mountain Shops Banner Elk is locally owned and located at 3990 NC Hwy 105 S in Banner Elk (near Seven Devils, Sugar Mountain and Banner Elk). Your new one-stop “pack & ship” solution is open seven days a week. They also offer mailbox services with package acceptance from all carriers, a real street address and email or text notification. “Plus, we’ll keep your mail and packages secure until you’re ready to pick them up.” Learn more by scanning the QR code on page 112 in this issue of CML
Apple Hill Farm Outpost Expanding
The Apple Hill Farm Outpost is a unique destination that brings the spirit of Apple Hill Farm’s mountaintop alpaca farm right into the heart of Banner Elk. The Outpost offers farm favorites, such as cozy alpaca apparel and yarns, plus an expanded selection of alpaca fiber products and other gifts. Their foods section, highlighting local agriculture, offers fresh goods—meats, cheeses, produce, baked goods, and prepared foods—from local farms and food producers. Stop by this spring—they’re expanding both their offerings and their space as they move into a second building on the property. The Apple Hill Farm Outpost is located at 414 Shawneehaw Ave S, Banner Elk NC. applehillfarmnc.com/apple-hill-farm-outpost/
Wildlife Conservationist of the Year
Former staff writer Curtis Smalling, whose articles on birding were a favorite of CML readers, has been named “2026 Wildlife Conservationist of the Year” by the North Carolina Wildlife Federation and will be honored by Governor Josh Stein on May 2 at the 61st Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards.
For over two decades, Smalling has dedicated his career to protecting birds and their habitats across North Carolina. As VP/ Executive Director of Audubon North Carolina, he leads science-based conservation initiatives from the mountains to the coast. Smalling has protected thousands of acres of critical habitat, launched marsh restoration projects, and advanced bird-friendly native plant policies statewide. Smalling also launched Audubon’s first Urban Forestry program and serves on national and international bird conservation committees. Through science, partnership, and advocacy, he has become a leading voice for bird conservation in North Carolina.
By Dr. Azra Bertrand
Let Nature be Thy Medicine:
Nature Therapy in Appalachia
Whatif I told you there was a miracle pill that would lower your blood pressure, reduce heart disease, help prevent cancer, stabilize your mental health, ease inflammation in your joints, improve your thinking and help you in one hundred other ways, all without any side effects? A therapy that’s scientifically validated in more than three hundred studies, and is absolutely free. Would you believe me?
This therapy is real, but it’s not a pill— it’s nature. That’s right. And, what better place to experience ecotherapy than the mountains of western North Carolina in springtime?
Nature therapies go by a half-dozen different names, including green therapy, “forest bathing,” and the newly emerging field of ecosomatics. What they have in common is the understanding that exposure to any natural environment is profoundly healing. A 2022 study published in Frontiers of Psychology showed the beneficial effects on mental and physical health extend to having potted plants in your home or office, or even having a view of trees out your window.
We are biophilic beings. Our biology innately thrives with ecological contact. We are designed for nature, and by nature. Every atom in our body comes from the Earth of course, and every bit of energy in our bodies originally came from the sun, transformed into a useable form by plants.
New studies are coming out every month, reaching into children’s health and education. It turns out that when children spend two to three hours outside every day, academic performance improves across the board—in math, reading, sciences, languages and social studies. Attention and behavior improve, and anxiety levels are reduced. And, that’s only the tip
of the iceberg. It’s why some of the best public education programs in the world, including in Finland, Estonia, and Singapore, explicitly weave nature-connection time into their curricula.
Why is this not headline news? Is it too easy, too enjoyable, too simple to believe?
As a retired family physician, an author, a nature-based healing educator, and a father of a child in an outdoor school, I can attest first-hand to the healing power of the natural world. Like so many other doctors, I spent years chasing the symptoms of my patients, when the root cause was staring us in the face—disconnection from nature and natural lifestyles.
The foundations are simple. Eat real, fresh foods instead of ultra-processed ones. Get out into a city park, a field, a beach, a forest for a short walk every day. Most importantly, get some early morning sunlight and dim down the lights in the evening to bring your circadian rhythm into balance. It may not solve all your problems, but it will make a world of difference.
We’re so lucky here in WNC, surrounded by the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests. Their one million acres of wild mountain forests are the beating heart of Appalachia. They’re healing all of us, body and soul, just by their presence. If you live here, or are visiting, it’s almost certainly the nature that drew you. It definitely did me.
I grew up in Greensboro, NC, but the mountains always had my heart. The moment I got my driver’s license, I started driving to WNC for weekend backpacking trips. In my third year of medical school, while my friends were taking that extra neurology elective, or surgery subspecialty rotation, I used my free time
to lead young people on multi-week treks on the Appalachian and Mountains-toSea Trails. Those kids’ lives were forever changed, as was mine; the forests heal with a breadth and precision rivaling the best of modern medicine.
Western North Carolina is becoming a center for ecotherapies—a bloom of practitioners and retreat centers are making this area their home. Over the last five years, I’ve dedicated my professional career to teaching nature-based, ecosomatic healing and health coaching, and offering retreats on our land, including holding community healing events after Hurricane Helene in 2024.
Ready to begin your nature therapy?
Here are 4 ways to get started:
1. Take an outdoor break each day, even if just for a few minutes. Take some full, deep breaths and cast your gaze toward the trees and mountains. It will begin to clear your mind right away.
2. Place living plants in your home. They relax your nervous system and bring beauty into the environment.
3. Take a walk in our local forests or by the rivers. It will lower your stress levels and improve your sense of wellbeing.
4. Take five minutes to stand or walk barefoot on the grass first thing in the morning. It will set your circadian rhythms, and help bring electrical balance between your body and the Earth.
Dr. Azra Bertrand is a retired physician, awardwinning author, ecosomatic health coach and educator. You can connect with him through his website www.AzraBertrand.com and on Instagram. All photos courtesy of the author.
CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Spring
Knives Out
Spring-cleaning for the “finer” kitchen details
Aflourish of rejuvenating air sweeps across my back deck, carrying a symphony of tree frogs and Goldenwinged Warblers singing in leafing maples. Area farm markets pulse with freshly-up veggies, cut floral bouquets, artisanal crafts. I’m off to shop the Watauga County Farmers Market (WCFM), taking my kitchen knives out for sharpening; launching my post-winter cleanup list for promoting a healthier kitchen lifestyle because after all… … “Spring cleaning’s not just scrubbing and scouring, but also freshening up inwardly,” espouses Catherine Reczek. As owner of Be Natural Market (Boone wellness apothecary and holistic grocery featuring local produce, dairy, meats), she coaches, “Declutter mind and heart; improve poor eating habits; nourish body and soul. Pace spring-cleaning through the season, avoiding stress, burnout. Set reasonable intentions.”
High Country interior designer Laura Redd concurs that spring’s a time to renew the kitchen from solely workhorse to, as she puts it, “a place of peace.” The heart-of-the-home doesn’t need to be magazine-ready, she tells her clients. “No matter how small, easy upgrades enlarge a space, such as installing daylight LEDs overhead and under cabinets, simulating natural light for tasking. Dim them to enhance aesthetics, setting a warm, inviting mood. Purge countertops: What stays? What goes? Balance the heavy work, attending to the finer details that are often overlooked.”
A Cut Above
By Gail Greco
So at the market, I beeline to Fiddler Forge, dropping off some of my ‘finer details’—utility, paring, and my dulled chef’s knife—done-in by too much chicken-deboning for winter soups. While I shop for my company’s-coming dinner tonight, blacksmith Tom Wooten will employ a rotating diamond disc to form precise, consistent, and barely discernible, micro-serrated edges “that grip and cut (food) straighter (no wobbling); safer to use,” he demos. Reminds me of Kathleen Flinn’s culinary-school adventures book, The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry.
Honing Steels and pull-through sharpeners are for touch-ups between professional sharpenings, advises master cutlers like Wooten. He’s been designing knives since he was a teenager and bladesmithing for 20 years at WCFM, where he’s also known for his hand-wrought iron planters. Knives done, I drop a few bills in the smithy’s tip jar: all he asks.
Clean House. Clean Body.
I finish shopping for dinner: lambloin chops from Mountain Memories; rosemary and thyme from Owens Farm; fennel from Mountainwise. I head home to brother Rich and wife Susan, bringing snow peas up from their organic Raleigh garden. Snow peas are North Carolina’s initial spring crop, ripening later in our area.
“Talk about spring-cleaning! Think food, too,” commands my clean-eating
sister-in-law. “Antioxidant-rich, these peas are spring cleansers of another kind. Clean house, clean body,” she beams. I trim the peas carefully (sharper the knife, you still can cry), then sauté them while baking skillet cornbread in a minioven; my big one needs attention. Sherry Purser, owner/technician of Purser Home Solutions Appliance and Repair, troubleshoots ovens that can fail due to the intense heat of self-cleaning. She diagnoses and repairs all appliances, so spring’s a good time to look them over, “including having clothes dryer vents cleaned professionally of winter’s lint buildup,” she urges.
Dinner winds down with fennel, another food cleanser—for tummy and palate—something my Italian-born grandfather taught me as a child. The paring knife removes ribs and fronds, then cuts the bulb into chewable slices, ushering in dessert—one approved by Dr. Ezekiel J. Emanuel. He writes in his 2026 book, Eat Your Ice Cream, “Wellness should be an invisible part of one’s lifestyle that yields maximum benefits with the least work.” So, caramel gelato it is, with sliced spring strawberries.
For giggles after dinner (laughter cleans up stress hormones), we watch the whodunit mystery, Knives Out (Jamie Lee Curtis, Daniel Craig). Back in the kitchen, the “whodidit” was me, springcleaning and jotting down the following tips and clues that can lead to a kitchen that’s a cut above at your house, too!
– Purge pantry/fridge of outdated food, condiments, spices devoid of potency.
– Process old bread into breadcrumbs; store in freezer.
– Keep produce fresher in crisper containers (my fridge, pictured above) rather than plastic bags and packages; stackables help organize and save space.
– Give cutting boards a spring cleaning and when in use, mitigate cross-contamination, staining, and lingering food odors by placing a food-grade parchment paper sheet on wooden cutting boards. Same for plastic boards to avoid knifescarring, micro-particles in your food.
– Rather than using paper towels when cleaning, Heather Bresnahan (at WCFM) sews pretty, sustainable cloths; beeswax bread bags replace plastic bags; antibacterial food-cloths replace plastic wraps—great for sandwiches, too.
– Also replacing plastic wraps, reusable food-grade silicone lids (at Mast General Store) plop over bowls for temporary food storage.
– Organize: Add dividers to junk drawers. Gather scattered paper recipes in one place.
– Re-season cast-iron pots and pans.
– Save time one-stop shopping for spring supplies at the charming oldtimey Brinkley Hardware (Elk Park); they have everything from home knife sharpeners to major appliances.
– Clean knife block slats, brushing inside with distilled white vinegar; dry thoroughly. Need a new knife for that block? Avery Knifeworks (Banner Elk) crafts theirs with exotic wooden handles, so cool-looking you’ll wanna go cook!
Organize with containers
By Kim S. Davis
Spring is here and with it begins another season of gathering at our High Country Farmers’ Markets. Whether you prefer the social experience of a Saturday morning spent browsing the stalls and chatting with neighbors while sipping locally made coffee and noshing on fresh homemade pastries, or weekday evening outings foraging for in-season ingredients and shopping for crafts that represent our mountain region, our mountain communities offer a variety of days, times and locations for gleaning local goods. Whatever your motivation, there are so many excellent reasons to support our local farmers and artisans. Here, we highlight six of them...
Produce at the Peak of Freshness
Supermarkets surely serve a purpose—we are fortunate to have access to high quality grocery stores throughout our area, where you can browse the aisles to gather every ingredient you may need for a new or favorite recipe. However, there is no better ingredient than the freshest ingredient—especially when it comes to produce. Unlike some of the fruits and vegetables available in chain grocery stores which might be harvested before they’re fully ripe in order to have time to travel, often great distances, the produce at area farmers’ markets is picked at its peak, then quickly carried only a short distance.
Healthier Communities
Whether you eat for sustenance or pleasure, consuming food that is grown locally enhances both nourishment and flavor. The freshest foods retain higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxi-
High Country Farmers’ Markets Reap the Benefits of Shopping Local
dants. Fruits and vegetables lose nutrients within twenty-four hours of being picked, so to have the opportunity to purchase just-picked produce is a healthy advantage.
Additionally, choosing locally grown and locally made products supports healthier local economies. Keeping your dollars in the area by purchasing from farmers and artisans who live and work nearby allows them to put their own earnings back into their communities, employ local farmworkers, and join you in growing our High Country economy.
Support Sustainable Farming
Sustainable growing practices of local farmers provide additional benefits for farmers’ market patrons. Box stores and big chains may offer produce, dairy, meats and fresh flowers that come mostly from large commercial farms, which utilize methods for amassing vast amounts of crops. Smaller farms are able to engage in more sustainable methods; in fact, the majority of High Country growers use either certified organic or chemical-free practices, which are considered healthier choices by many consumers.
The Price Is Right
Price and variety, once trade-offs for acquiring fresher, chemical-free products, might now be viewed as additional pluses. Previously, locally grown foods tended to be more expensive. But with continued rising costs at grocery stores, the difference in prices has narrowed, and in many cases, the healthier, fresher local options are comparably priced, or cheaper. As to variety, farmers’ markets stock only locally in-season items which might limit consumer choices. However,
rather than being seen as negative, farmers’ market shoppers are presented with opportunities to try new and different ingredients and broaden their palates.
Expand Your Food Knowledge
Some of our area’s farmers’ markets offer cooking demonstrations, concocting dishes that include locally harvested, in-season items, and sharing recipes and tastes of unique available foods. Enjoy being educated about where your food comes from, the farming practices used, and how food is best prepared to maximize taste and nutrition. Our farmers and chefs are pleased to highlight foods that are indigenous to our region and provide opportunities to interact with them.
Bring Home Local Culture
Talented artisans present their wares at many of our farmers’ markets, offering one-of-a-kind arts, crafts and consumable goods that reflect our local culture and values. Knitted caps and scarves made with wool from local alpacas; honey gathered from local hives made from High Country wildflower or sourwood nectar; cheeses crafted in small batches from local goat and cows’ milk; and native plants and garden starts to enhance our landscapes—all are available at your local farmers’ markets.
Simply stated, High Country Farmers Markets build stronger and healthier communities. Local goods showcase regional talents and reflect our mountain spirit. This spring, reap the benefits and support the community by heading out to one or more of the many venues to experience, gather, learn about, and enjoy the bounties of our region.
Spring Farmers’ Markets
Our local Farmers’ Markets are open for the season! 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.
April–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.
May–October
Crouse Park in downtown Sparta, NC
Ashe County/West Jefferson Farmers Market
Saturdays 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
April–November
108 Backstreet, West Jefferson, NC
Avery County Farmers’ Market
Thursdays 3–6 p.m.
May - October
Next to the Historic Banner Elk School, 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC
Beech Mountain Farmers’ Market
First Fridays 2–6 p.m.
June–October
In the public parking lot across from Fred’s General Mercantile, Beech Mountain, NC
Blowing Rock Farmers’ Market
Thursdays 1–5 p.m.
May–October
379 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock, NC
Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture’s King Street Market
Tuesdays 3:30–6:30 p.m.
May–October
126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC
Damascus Farmers Market
Thursdays, 4-7 p.m.
May–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.–Noon
May–October
Ralph Stout Park in Mountain City, TN
Lansing Park Farmers’ Market
Saturdays 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
April–October
Lansing Creeper Trail Park, 114 S Big Horse Creek Rd, Lansing, NC
Morganton Farmers’ Markets
Saturdays 8 a.m.–Noon
May–October
300 Beach St., Morganton, NC
Wednesday Mini Market, 10 a.m.– p.m.
May–October
111 North Green St., Morganton, NC
Town of Newland Flea & Farmers Market
Saturdays 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19
Riverwalk Bandstand at 211 River St., Newland, NC
Check their FB page, Town of Newland Flea & Farmers Market, for updates
Watauga County Farmers’ Market
Saturdays 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
April–November
591 Horn in the West Dr, Boone, NC
Wilkes County/Wilkesboro Farmers’ Market
Saturdays 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m., April 18–September
Tuesdays 3:30–5:30 p.m., June 2–September
Yadkin Valley Marketplace in downtown N. Wilkesboro, NC
Yancey County Farmers Market
Saturdays 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
April through the fall season
22 W. Main Street in downtown Burnsville, NC
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In addition to our local farmers’ markets, be sure to check out Shipley Farms Farm Store and Butcher’s Market for top-quality beef from pasture-fed cattle. For over 150 years, Shipley Farms has been rooted in the agricultural fabric of North Carolina’s High Country. Shop directly from their Farm Store, or find Shipley Farms products at farmers’ markets and other retail outlets throughout the region. Over on the farm, they offer Guided Walking Tours and Cattle Feeding tours, fun for the whole family! Located at 1699 Linville Creek Rd, Vilas, NC | Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
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.
And check out:
High Country Food Hub, operated by Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture (BRWIA)
Spring Restaurant Guide
ENJOY THE FLAVORS
n Banner Elk Café, Lodge and Tavern
324 Shawneehaw Ave S Hwy 184
Banner Elk, NC 28604
828.898.4040
bannerelkcafe.com
“Practically everything you need in one location: two restaurants, an espresso bar, bakery, and smoothie bar.”
n Chef’s Table
140 Azalea Circle SE
Banner Elk, NC 28604
828.898.5214
bannerelkvillage.com/chefs-table
“Our farm to table restaurant features a rotating menu of fresh, seasonal local foods in an upscale atmosphere. We serve the freshest seasonal produce and ingredients with menu items ranging from steaks and seafood to chicken, beef and sushi.”
n Casa Rustica 1348 NC-105 Boone, NC 28607
828.262.5128
casarustica1981.com
“Every meal has a story, and ours always begins with family. Bringing a taste of Italy to the High Country.”
n Bayou
130 Main Street East
Banner Elk, NC 28604
828.898.8952
bayoubannerelk.com
“Be honest - are you a savory, sweet, or both kinda breakfast person? If you’re looking for breakfast in Banner Elk, we serve hearty savory plates to sweet breakfast favorites (and everything in between).”
n Cobo Sushi Bistro and Bar
161 W Howard Street Boone, NC 28607
828.386.1201
cobosushi.com
“SUSHI LIFE! SUSHI LOVE!”
n Fred’s Backside Deli
501 Beech Mountain Pkwy Beech Mountain, NC 28604
828.387.4838
fredsgeneral.com
“Serving breakfasts, sandwiches, homemade soups and salads, beverages, including beer and wine, and freshly made desserts. Enjoy your meal on the deck in our wooded ‘backyard.’”
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n Sorrento’s Italian Bistro
140 Azalea Circle SE Banner Elk, NC 28604
828.898.5214
bannerelkvillage.com/sorrentos-italianbistro/
“If loving chicken parm is wrong, we don’t wanna be right.”
n Lost Province Brewing Company
130 N Depot Street Boone, NC 28607
828.265.3506
lostprovince.com
“Spring fever? Meet our seasonal Ruby Orchard Salad. Fair warning: you will lick the plate!”
n Stick Boy Kitchen
211 Boone Heights Drive Boone, NC 28607
828.265.4141
stickboybread.com/kitchen
“A simple sandwich. But with our fresh ingredients it’ll have you coming back for seconds!”
n Pearl’s Kitchen
3595 NC-194 unit 2 Sugar Grove, NC 28679
828.963.2882 pearlskitchennc.com
“The curried chicken salad you loved at Reids Cafe is now at Pearl’s Kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a familiar favorite, we’ve got you covered!”
n Timberlake’s Restaurant and Headwaters Pub
185 Chetola Lake Dr Blowing Rock, NC 28605
828.295.5505
chetola.com/blowing-rock-restaurants
“Whether you’re craving a refined dining experience or a casual meal, Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort is the perfect spot!”
n Cellucci’s Italian Restaurant and Bar 2855 Linville Falls Hwy Pineola, NC 28662
828.733.1401 celluccis.com
“Our salads are more than just a side— they’re a vibrant and delicious experience.”
n Bistro Roca - Hellbender
239 Sunset Dr Blowing Rock, NC 28605
828.295.3487 bistroroca.com
“Come experience this special collaboration of two beloved restaurants while it lasts. Good food, great company, and a menu you won’t find anywhere else.”
n Williams Deli & Bakery
101 High Country Square #28 Banner Elk, NC 28604
828.898.2300
williamsdeliandbakery.com
“It’s always a beautiful day to enjoy a gourmet sandwich with us.”
n French Quarter
130 Main Street East Banner Elk, NC 28604
828.898.8952
bayoubannerelk.com
“French Quarter at The Bayou offers craft cocktails, a tapas menu, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Banner Elk.”
n The Pedalin’ Pig
2968-A HWY 105, Boone, NC 28607
828-355-9559
4235 HWY 105 South, Banner Elk, NC 28604
828-898-7500
thepedalinpig.com
“Smoked wings…come on down.”
n Gideon Ridge
202 Gideon Ridge Rd Blowing Rock, NC 28605
828.295.3644 gideonridge.com
“Our farmers define our menu. The menu will change week to week or day to day depending on climate and seasonal growth length.”
n Gamekeeper Restaurant
3005 Shulls Mill Rd Boone, NC 28607
828.963.7400 gamekeeper-nc.com
“Elk Denver Leg grilled to perfection. Earthy, savory, and just the right amount of indulgent.”
n Stonewalls
344 Shawneehaw Ave S Banner Elk, NC 28604
828.898.5550 stonewallsrestaurant.com
“Stonewalls Restaurant serves Prime Rib, Seafood, Gourmet Steaks, and Fine Wines.”
For other great restaurants in our area, see the next page...
WITH ROASTED CHICKPEAS, BURRATA AND PICKLED RADISHES
INGREDIENTS:
5 oz baby arugula
6 oz snow peas
6 oz English peas
8 oz snap peas, trimmed and strings removed
1 tsp salt
1 cup mint, chopped
8 oz burrata
DRESSING
½ tsp salt
2 TBSP lemon juice
1 ½ TBSP balsamic vinegar
1 TBSP honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 small shallot, minced
¼ tsp ground black pepper
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
DIRECTIONS:
PICKLED RADISHES
1 small bunch of radishes, thinly sliced
½ cup white vinegar
½ cup water
1 ½ TBSP sugar
2 tsp salt
½ tsp whole peppercorns
ROASTED CHICKPEAS
1 15 oz can chickpeas
1 TBSP olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
n Add the thinly sliced radishes to an airtight container.
n To a small pot add vinegar, sugar, salt and peppercorns; heat until dissolved, pour over radishes and set aside.
n Mix dressing ingredients together and set aside.
n Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
n Rinse, drain and dry chickpeas.
n Toss with olive oil and spices.
n Roast for about 20-30 minutes tossing halfway through until crispy.
n Boil a large pot of water and add 1 tsp of salt; once boiling, prepare an ice bath.
n To the boiling water add the snow peas, English peas and snap peas and cook for about 1-2 minutes until tender-crisp.
n Transfer peas to ice water to cool completely. Drain well and pat dry.
n To your platter add arugula, chilled peas and chopped mint.
n Toss with dressing, top with pickled radishes and roasted chickpeas. Tear the burrata into pieces.
RICOTTA FRITTATA
INGREDIENTS:
EGG MIXTURE
8 eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup ricotta
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
4 slices prosciutto, sliced (optional: save one slice to top the finished frittata)
1 TBSP olive oil
ROASTED VEGETABLES
½ lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup tomatoes
1 TBSP olive oil
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
RICOTTA TOPPING
¼ cup ricotta
½ cup freshly grated parmesan, divided ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
DIRECTIONS:
n Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.
n To a rimmed sheet pan, toss asparagus and tomatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast for about 10-15 minutes.
n Remove from oven and let cool; keep oven at 400.
n To a blender add egg mixture ingredients and blend until frothy and smooth.
n To a small bowl combine ¼ cup of ricotta, ¼ cup parmesan and ¼ cup chopped parsley; set aside.
n Prepare a 10-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe dish with olive oil.
n To the skillet, add cooled asparagus and tomatoes, and sliced prosciutto.
n Pour over egg mixture.
n Dollop the top with teaspoons of ricotta mixture.
n Top with remaining parmesan cheese.
n Bake for 30-40 minutes until set in the center.
n Let set for about 5 minutes before serving.
From CML’s Kitchen
By Meagan Goheen
LAMB CHOPS WITH BLUEBERRY SAUCE
INGREDIENTS:
2 lbs lamb rib chops, 8-count, cut from a rack of frenched lamb ribs
2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
2 TBSP Dijon mustard
1 TBSP chopped rosemary
2 tsp garam masala
2 TBSP avocado oil
BLUEBERRY SAUCE
1 small shallot (minced)
1 pinch of salt
1 cup fresh blueberries
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
¾ cup dry red wine
2 TBSP honey
2 TBSP butter
DIRECTIONS:
n Pat the lamb chops dry.
n Brush both sides of lamb with Dijon mustard.
n To a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, rosemary and garam masala and rub on to the lamb.
n Heat oil in a skillet, on medium-high heat, and sear about 4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to 125-140 degrees. Be sure not to crowd the pan and cook in batches.
n Set aside to rest while preparing the blueberry sauce.
BLUEBERRY SAUCE
n In the same skillet add minced shallot and a pinch of salt on medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
n Add blueberries and honey, continue to cook for about 2 minutes or until the blueberries start to pop.
n Stir in the red wine and balsamic vinegar to deglaze, about 4 minutes.
n Turn off heat and swirl in butter.
made with love!
RECIPES
LEMON MERINGUE DIPPED STRAWBERRIES
INGREDIENTS:
1-2 pints of strawberries
1 jar lemon curd
4 egg whites
¼ cup sugar
¼ tsp cream of tartar
DIRECTIONS:
n Wash and thoroughly dry strawberries to be sure the lemon curd will stick to the strawberry.
n Separate the egg yolks from the egg whites; let come to room temperature.
n Using a stand or hand mixer, whip the egg whites until they are glossy and smooth; add the cream of tartar to hold the egg whites’ form.
n Slowly add the sugar to the egg whites about a tablespoon at a time, beating until incorporated and stiff peaks form.
n Dip the dry strawberries into lemon curd, then follow by dipping into the meringue.
n Lightly torch the meringue using a kitchen torch.
