· The Avery Journal-Times Presents ·
2026 Best of the Best
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averyjournal.com
By Shannon DeRosas
2026 Best of Avery County
Best of Avery awards celebrate local business excellence
Society, while Brooke Miller of BCM Photography captured photos NEWLAND — On Tuesday, Aug. 11, The throughout the event. Mountain Avery Journal-Times and Mountain Times Vision Florists provided flowers for Publications hosted its annual Best of Avery the occasion. awards ceremony highlighting local businesses “This year’s Best of Avery Awards and their significant contributions to the county. represents the cream of the crop Hosted at Appalachian View Wedding Venue in when it comes to the very best in Newland, the evening boasted great food, great what Avery County has to offer,” Shell music and great company as the hardworking said of the event. “This event could people that make this area so special were not be possible without our sponsors, recognized. the incredible businesses and The eighth annual Best of Avery event, which organizations represented that are began in 2019, brought nearly 200 people the lifeblood of industry and service together for an evening centered around the both within and beyond the borders businesses and organizations that help make of our county and, of course, the Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Avery County a unique place to live and visit. people of our area who submitted Adams Multimedia Regional President Gene Fowler, Jr. addresses The masters of ceremonies were Avery ballots to express their support, the capacity audience at the opening of the Best of Avery Journal-Times Editor Jamie Shell and Mountain approval and appreciation for those ceremony as AJT Marketing Consultant Landon Reed (left) and Times Publications Marketing Consultant whom we are honoring.” AJT Editor Jamie Shell (right) look on. Landon Reed, who presented awards Among the businesses recognized Reed said the growing participation also recognizing businesses across a wide variety of during the evening were Kaye’s by the River and benefits businesses being recognized as the categories. Stonewalls Restaurant, along with many other Best of Avery award becomes increasingly Throughout the evening, attendees had the local businesses that earned multiple awards in recognizable in the community. opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments their respective categories. “It was really rewarding to see everything of local businesses while enjoying food catered Beyond the awards themselves, the evening come together and watch the winners be by Stonewalls Restaurant, including prime rib, offered an opportunity for local business recognized in front of their fellow Best of Avery chicken, salmon and a variety of other dishes. owners and community members to spend peers,” Reed said. Music for the evening was provided by time together. Attendees could be seen MTP Executive Editor Moss Brennan also Todd Wright and The High Country Jazz greeting one another, sharing conversations highlighted the community atmosphere created and celebrating by the event. “Best of Avery is always a joy to each other’s attend, as we see businesses come together accomplishments, to celebrate their achievements,” Brennan said. creating a strong sense “It’s always great seeing the various businesses of community throughout interacting with each other and having a good the venue. time.” “The energy and The event was made possible through excitement around Best the support of sponsors A Flooring Outlet, of Avery this year was Inc., Complete Comfort Heating and Air, K&C on a completely different Tree Service, Life Care Center of Banner Elk, level,” Reed said. “The Stonewalls Restaurant, VPC Builders LLC, community really got Yellow Mountain Enterprises and Webb’s Lawn behind it, constantly Care. sharing their favorites As another Best of Avery celebration came on social media and to a close, the event served not only as a encouraging people to recognition of the county’s top businesses, vote, and that led to but also as a reminder of the people and Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography a much higher voter relationships that keep Avery County’s business Approximately 200 people enjoyed a catered meal from Stonewalls Restaurant turnout than we’ve ever prior to the announcing of awards during the Best of Avery ceremony on community thriving. seen before.” August 11 at Appalachian View.
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
The High Country’s Premier Steak & Seafood Restaurant Best Dinner Restaurant 8 years in a row
Best Fine Dining Restaurant 8 years in a row Best Steakhouse 8 years in a row Best Seafood Restaurant 8 years in a row
The High County’s Premier Food Truck P Experience
The High Country’s Best Vacation Rentals
The High Country’s Best Space for Gatherings
Best Chicken Restaurant 5 years in a row
Voted Best Hotel/Motel 7 years running
Voted Best Banquet Facility 5 years running
Best Chicken Tenders 5years in a row Best Food Truck 2 years in a row
1-5 Bedrooms Available
Best Salad Bar 8 years in a row Best Restaurant Service 8 years in a row Best Caterer 8 years in a row Best Bar 828-898-5550
344 Shawneehaw Ave. South, Banner E stonewallsrestaurant.com
828-450-3279
Banner Elk, NC 28604 www.whattheclucktruck.net
828-260-3673
64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com
828-260-3673
2025
64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com
2025
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averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
And the Winners are.... BEST FOOD & DRINK
ASIAN RESTAURANT
FINE DINING RESTAURANT
Stonewalls Restaurant
Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant
FOOD TRUCK
Tracy’s Huckleberry Bakery
FRENCH FRIES
Stonewalls Restaurant
GLUTEN FREE RESTAURANT
Carolina Barbeque
HAMBURGER
Bojangles
HOME COOKING RESTAURANT
Tartan Restaurant
HOT DOG
BAKERY BAR
BARBECUE RESTAURANT BISCUIT
BREAKFAST RESTAURANT BREWERY
Kettell Beerworks
What The Cluck Food Truck McDonald’s of Banner Elk Kaye’s By The River
Smashed Craft Burgers Tartan Restaurant Starving Squirrel
BRUNCH PLACE
Kaye’s By The River
BUFFET
Kaye’s By The River
CHICKEN RESTAURANT
What The Cluck Food Truck
CHICKEN TENDERS
What The Cluck Food Truck
COFFEE SHOP
Big Mike’s Coffee Shop
DELI
Williams Deli & Bakery
DINNER RESTAURANT
Stonewalls Restaurant
DONUTS
Diggy Donuts Food Truck
FAST FOOD RESTAURANT
Bojangles
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Tim Heschke, Maggie James and Scott Garland with Stonewalls Restaurant, which won Best Bar, Best Dinner Restaurant, Best Fine Dining Restaurant, Best Salad Bar, Best Seafood Restaurant, Best Steakhouse, Best Restaurant Service and Best Caterer. What the Cluck Food Truck, which won Best Chicken Restaurant, Best Chicken Tenders and Best Food Truck.
2026 Best of Avery County
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averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
ICE CREAM/SLUSHIE SHOP
SUSHI RESTAURANT
ITALIAN RESTAURANT
TACO PLACE
LUNCH PLACE
VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT
MEXICAN RESTAURANT
WINERY
PIZZA PLACE
WINGS
BE Scooped
Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant
Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant Smokey’s Fillin’ Station Puerto Nuevo
Carolina Pizza Co.
SALAD BAR
Stonewalls Restaurant
Puerto Nuevo
Kaye’s By The River
Linville Falls Winery Town Tavern
BEST RETAIL
SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
ANTIQUE STORE
SOFT DRINK PLACE
APPLIANCE STORE
SPORTS BAR
ART GALLERY
STEAKHOUSE
ATV AND SXS SHOP
Stonewalls Restaurant Sips Soda Food Truck Town Tavern Stonewalls Restaurant
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Bailey Cerra and Abraham Cerra with Be Scooped, which won Best Ice Cream/Slushie Shop.
The Find Vintage Warehouse Three Nails Hardware The Art Cellar
Motorcycle Medic
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mike and Amy Ward with The Find Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Vintage Warehouse, which won Best Antique Store Pictured are Jimmy Hughes, Michelle Scott and Lanae Somes and Best Furniture Store. with Smokey’s Fillin’ Station, which won Best Lunch Place.
2026 Best of Avery County
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averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
AUTO SUPPLY STORE
CAR WASH
BANK
CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
BEER & WINE STORE
COFFEE ROASTER
BUILDING SUPPLY STORE
CONVENIENCE STORE
CABINET COMPANY
DANCE STUDIO
CABLE TV SERVICE
DRUG STORE
CAMPGROUND
ELECTRONICS STORE
CAMPING SUPPLY & MILITARY SURPLUS STORE
EXERCISE FACILITY
CANNABIS SHOP
EYEWEAR STORE
O’Reilly Auto Parts
Banner Elk Car Wash
State Employees Credit Union
Christmas Corner Choose & Cut
Cruz Thru
Mountain Grounds
Three Nails Hardware
Cruz Thru
Banner’s Cabinets
Blue Ridge Performing Arts Academy
Spectrum
Premier Pharmacy
Mountain River Family Campground Pack Rats
Blue Flowers
Williams YMCA Western Carolina Eye Associates
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY IN AVERY COUNTY!
A Division of Bank of Tennessee | Member FDIC
877.725.5222 Mountaincommunitybank.com
Radio Shack Of Newland
NMLS# 463203
2026 Best of Avery County
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2026 Best of Avery County
FARM SUPPLY STORE
HARDWARE STORE
FENCING COMPANY
HEATING & AIR COMPANY
Three Nails Hardware Three Nails Hardware
FLOORING STORE
A Flooring Outlet, Inc.
FLORAL SHOP
Three Nails Hardware
Complete Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. HOME DÉCOR STORE
The Eclectic Nest & Closet
Callista Flower Co.
HOTEL/MOTEL
The Find Vintage Warehouse
INTERNET COMPANY
Christmas Tree Hill Garden Center
JEWELRY STORE
Three Nails Hardware
LAW FIRM
Dainty Darling Boutique
LAWN & GARDEN STORE
FURNITURE STORE GARDEN SHOP
GENERAL STORE GIFT SHOP
GROCERY STORE
Food Lion
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Debbie Matheson and Colin Pitts with A Flooring Outlet, Inc., which won Best Flooring Store.
The Inn at Shady Lawn Spectrum
Mountain Jewelers McNair Law Firm
Christmas Tree Hill Garden Center
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Grant Carnett and Michael and Kim Johnson with Complete Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., which won Best Heating & Air Company.
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
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Celebrating Our Best of Avery Winners! Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens Yellow Mountain Enterprises, Avery County Group Home, and Yellow Mountain Treasure Box Avery County Group Home 2026
2026
BEST Assisted Living Yellow Mountain Treasure Box BEST
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
2026
Yellow Mountain Enterprises 2026
BEST
2026
DALE TRIVETTE PUBLIC SERVANT
2026
Yellow Mountain Treasure Box BEST PLACE TO WORK
Yellow Mountain Enterprises BEST
CIVIC/ COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION
Yellow Mountain Thrift Store 2026
BEST
PLACE TO FIND A BARGAIN
Yellow Mountain Thrift Store BEST SECONDHAND STORE
The mission of the Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens is to provide vocational, educational, residential, support services, and social opportunities to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Avery County. We are proud of our amazing staff, volunteers, and community who make this recognition possible. Thank you, Avery County, for your continued support!
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2026 Best of Avery County
LAWN MOWER DEALER
OUTFITTERS STORE
LUMBER STORE
PAINT STORE
MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO
PAVING COMPANY
MATTRESS STORE
PET SUPPLY STORE
MEDICAL PRACTICE
PHARMACY
Mountaineer Equipment
QXO
Blue Ridge Martial Arts Blackberry Creek Mattress
Baker Center for Primary Care, UNC Health Appalachian MEN’S CLOTHING STORE
Mo’s Boots
Three Nails Hardware Mike Nelson Paving & Grading Co. My Best Friend’s Barkery Premier Pharmacy
PICKLEBALL COURT
The Pineola
The Eclectic Nest & Closet
POWER EQUIPMENT DEALER
Spectrum
PRODUCE SHOP
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home
PROPANE COMPANY
MOBILE PHONE COMPANY MONUMENT COMPANY
NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT
Highlanders Grill And Tavern
Avery Rent-All Pixie Produce
Blue Ridge Propane
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
Trust in our care. With us, your loved one will get the attention and compassion they deserve.
Outpatient Therapy • Short-Term Inpatient Therapy • Long-Term Care
CAL L TO SCH ED A TO ULE UR. 155821
BRONZE
828.898.5136
185 Norwood Hollow Rd. • Banner Elk, NC 28604 • LifeCareCenterOf BannerElk.com
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2026 Best of Avery County
RENTAL STORE
SKI SHOP
SECONDHAND STORE
SKI SLOPE
SKI RENTAL PLACE
SPA
Charmed Settings & Co Yellow Mountain Thrift Store Ski Country Sports
Ski Country Sports Beech Mountain Resort The Spa at Eseeola
TELEPHONE COMPANY
Carolina West Wireless
TIRE STORE
Cranberry Tire & Battery
TOURIST ATTRACTION
Grandfather Mountain
TV DEALER
Radio Shack Of Newland
USED CAR DEALER
Beams Auto Sales
WEDDING VENUE
Appalachian View
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chance Watson and Danny Ray Cole and Pam Watson with Charmed Settings & Co, which won Best Rental Store and Best Rental Agency.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Pam Watson, Scott Watson, Jada Clawson, Rhiannon Manis, Casey Rayfield, Charlene Gragg and Roger Gragg with Appalachian View, which won Best Wedding Venue and Best Banquet Facility.
2026 Best of Avery County
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2026 Best of Avery County
WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE
Dainty Darling Boutique
YOGA INSTRUCTION
Yoga828
PLACE TO FIND A BARGAIN
Yellow Mountain Thrift Store
ACCOUNTANT
BEST SERVICES
State Employees Credit Union — Cade Johnson
ASSISTED LIVING
Avery County Group Home
ATTORNEY
Appalachian Law Center — Thomas McMurray
AUTO BODY SHOP
Carlos & Son
AUTO INSURANCE COMPANY
Avery County Farm Bureau
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Kelli Pittman with Dainty Darling Boutique, which won Best Gift Shop and Best Women’s Clothing Store.
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Thank you to our supporters!
24-Hour Emergency Phone Number 828-964-2611 Dolbier Disaster Restoration, Oriental Rugs, Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning 9218 NC Hwy 105 S | Banner Elk (Foscoe), NC 28604
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
Thank you for voting us the Best Florist in Avery County!
Mountain Visions Florist
1361 Sugar Mountain Dr #1, Newland, NC 28657
(828) 733-3486
www.bannerelkflowers.com
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2026 Best of Avery County
AUTO REPAIR SHOP
Banner Elk Exxon
BAIL BONDSMAN
We Spring Bail Bonds — Sabrina Stout
BANQUET FACILITY
Appalachian View
BARBER
Model Barber Shop — Steve Burleson
BARBERSHOP
Model Barber Shop
BARTENDER
Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant — Laura Fritz BEAUTY SALON
Classic Cuts
BED & BREAKFAST
Perry House
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Nicole Simmons, Craig Simmons and Laura Fritz of Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant, which won Best Italian Restaurant; Fritz won Best Bartender and Best Waitress.
L
Thank You for Voting us Best Lawn & Garden Shop! We’re grateful for your continued support and can’t wait to help your garden grow for years to come.
We have a large wide selection of:
• Hardy flowering trees and shrubs • Seeds and Bulbs • Quality Bedding Plants • Fertilizers • Bulk or Bagged Mulch
Christmas Tree Hill Garden Center
1881 Millers Gap Hwy • Newland, NC 828.733.4814
Thank you for voting us the #1 Campground in Avery County!
Avery County’s Oldest Realty Firm Main Street- Newland, NC (828) 733-2151 • (828) 733-5222 Linville Office • Linville, NC (828) 733-5770 Mike Lacey - Amy Vaughan - Ally Long
Thank You for Voting us BEST of the BEST Real Estate Agency in Avery County For more listings see our website: www.LaceyRealtyNC.com, or contact us at amyv65@yahoo.com or allyblong@gmail.com Mike Lacey: 733-5044 • Amy Vaughan: 828-385-1155 • Ally Long 828-260-6369
8555 S US Hwy 19E, Newland, NC 28657
(828) 765-4810 www.mtnriverwnc.com
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
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CARPET CLEANING SERVICE
Dolbier Floor Care & Restoration
CATERER
Stonewalls Restaurant — Scott Garland
CHIMNEY SERVICE
Ember Keepers
CHIROPRACTOR
Northwest Chiropractic — Dr. Kelly McLaurin CONTRACTOR
VPC Builders LLC
COSMETOLOGIST
Classic Cuts — Lindsay Carver
CUSTOM HOME BUILDING COMPANY
VPC Builders LLC
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Jeremy Maynard and Rick Pictured are April Mitchell and Candice Maynard with Ember Keepers, which won Harmon with The Children’s Castle, which Best Chimney Service. won Best Day Care Center.
DAY CARE CENTER
The Children’s Castle
49th Annual
Wiggle on to get your tickets!
Woolly Worm Festival Worm Races | Cash Prizes | Crafts | Food | Live Entertainment
Downtown Banner Elk, NC October 17 & 18 Saturday’s Winning Worm Wins $1,000
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday
9 am - 4 pm Sunday’s Winning Worm Wins $500
Avery County’s Best of the Best Thank you to the Avery Journal Times and everyone who voted The Woolly Worm Festival as the best festival in Avery County. Pictured: Britt Mason, Avery County Chamber of Commerce, Frances Magruder, Kiwanis, and Claudia Dowsett, Avery County Chamber of Commerce
woollywormfestivalnc
www.woollyworm.com
Please
NO PETS
20 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m DENTIST
Dr. Jonathan Lindsey, DDS
ELECTRICIAN
Linville River Electric — Joel Stoeltzing
EMT
Avery County Fire Service — Jesse Downing
2026 Best of Avery County FUNERAL DIRECTOR
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home — Garrick Smith FUNERAL HOME
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home
GLASS/SHOWER/MIRROR INSTALLER
FAMILY DOCTOR
J.A.C.K.S. Glass Inc.
FIREFIGHTER
HOME BUILDING COMPANY
Elk River Medical, UNC Health Appalachian — GOLF COURSE David P. Kimmel, MD Sugar Mountain Golf Course Crossnore Volunteer Fire Dept. — Jesse Downing FLORIST
VPC Builders LLC
HOME RESTORATION SERVICE
VPC Builders LLC
Mountain Visions Florist — Lori Benfield
HOME SECURITY SERVICE
Waightstill’s Restaurant And Tavern — Kayla Wilcox
HOSPICE CARE
FOOD SERVICE WORKER
Mountain Heritage Systems Technologies
Amorem
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Janet Dale, Barbara Clawson and Angela Rodriguez with Bojangles, Pictured are Jackie and Mike Nelson and Emily Ollis with Big Mike’s Coffee Shop, which won Best Biscuit and Best Fast Food Restaurant. which won Best Coffee Shop.
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
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Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Marc Young and Lorah Young with Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Blackberry Creek Mattress, which won Best Pictured are Susan Jones and Pat Fisher with Blue Pictured are Lee and Becky Buchanan with Smashed Mattress Store. Ridge Propane, which won Best Propane Company. Craft Burgers, which won Best Hamburger.
Providing Propane Providing Propane S Service ervice tto o tthe he High High C Country ountry S Since ince 1 1992 992
Thank y Thank you ou ffor or v voting oting u us s the the B Best est Propane Propane Company Company in in Avery Avery County! County!
(828) 733-3603
blueridgepropanenc@gmail.com
Open Mon - Fri: 7:30 - 4:00 14 Turbyfill Rd, Newland, NC 28657
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Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chad Hagie, Kari Hagie, Hannah Hagie and TJ Hurley with Bullfrog Landscaping, Inc, which won Best Snow Removal Service.
2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Marley Miller with Callista Flower Co., which won Best Floral Shop.
COLD BEVERAGES TOBACCO PRODUCE
SNACKS BEER & WINE LOTTERY
NOW SERVING
Thank you for voting us best beEr and wine store and best convenience store.
Come and Drive Thru!
350 Pineola St, Newland, NC 28657
(828) 742-1541
2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chad and Leah Duncan with Carolina Pizza Co., which won Best Pizza Place.
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Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Johnny Pile and Colby Baker with Beech Pictured are Missy and Joe Vance with Christmas Mountain Resort, which won Best Resort and Best Tree Hill Garden Center, which won Best Garden Ski Slope. Shop and Best Lawn & Garden Store.
PROUDLY SERVING THE HIGH COUNTRY SINCE 2014
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST HOSPICE!
Our professional care team has provided quality hospice and palliative care to Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties since 2014—originally as Caldwell Hospice Serving the High Country and, since 2021, as AMOREM. We are s ll your local, non-profit hospice and palliative provider— more resources and a new name, but still right at home in the High Country.
828.754.0101 l 1.844.4AMOREM—TOLL-FREE WWW.AMOREMSUPPORT.ORG
AMOREM is excited to bring the first hospice patient care unit to the High Country in Fall 2026! YOUR LOCAL, NON-PROFIT HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE MEDICINE PROVIDER
24 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m HOSPITAL
Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital
INSULATION SALES & SERVICE
Stines Insulation
INSURANCE AGENCY
2026 Best of Avery County MEDICAL DOCTOR
Elk River Medical, UNC Health Appalachian — David P. Kimmel, MD MORTGAGE COMPANY
Mountain Community Bank
Fortner Insurance Agency
NAIL SALON
Fortner Insurance Agency — Angela Thorpe
NAIL TECH
Edward Jones — Richard A Honeycutt, AAMS®
NURSE
Mountain Jewelers
Behavioral Health, UNC Health Appalachian — Ella T. Markland, FNP-C, PMHNP
INSURANCE AGENT INVESTMENT FIRM
JEWELER
LANDSCAPING SERVICE
Webb’s Lawn Care
MAILING/SHIPPING STORE
Pittman Trucking
Blossom Nail Spa Nails By Mattie — Mattie Cantrell Forbes
Avery County Health Department — Jessica Long
NURSE PRACTITIONER
NURSING HOME
Life Care Of Banner Elk
OIL CHANGE SHOP
MASSAGE THERAPIST
Hunter’s Auto Service
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Annette Ploszaj and Nolan Hughes with Cruz Thru, which won Best Beer & Wine Store and Best Convenience Store.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Angela Thorpe of Fortner Insurance Agency, which won Best Insurance Agency; Thorpe won Best Insurance Agent.
Dream Weaver Massage by Susie — Susie Lewis
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2026 Best of Avery County
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FREE NEWSLETTER Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chef Kristion Maxie, Kaye and Don Reinhofer, Chef Amanda Paramore with Kaye’s by the River, which won Best Buffet, Best Brunch Place, Best Gluten Free Restaurant and Best Vegetarian Restaurant.
Local news, straight to your inbox The best of the High Country’s hometown papers, delivered free. One quick read keeps you current on the stories that shape Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties.
In every issue Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Lynn Kilpatrick, Kaitlin Bowman, Mary Barnes, Rachel Buchanan, Penny Buasch and Kelly Arnett with Life Care of Banner Elk, which won Best Nursing Home.
✓ Top local headlines
✓ Breaking news alerts
✓ High school sports
✓ Community events
✓ Obituaries and public notices
Scan to sign up for free Takes less than a minute
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Joel and Lorena Stoeltzing, Melita Russell, Cierra and Carter Bumgarner, and Rebecca and Matt Oliver of Linville River Electric, Joel won Best Electrician.
Or sign up online at averyjournal.com/newsletters FREE TO READ. ALWAYS LOCAL. SIGN UP TODAY.
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mike Lacey and Amy Vaughan (not pictured is Ally Long) with Lacey Realty, which won Best Real Estate Agency.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mike and Jackie Nelson and Emily Hollis with Mike Nelson Paving & Grading Co., which won Best Paving Company.
Banner a er Elk l Cha Chamber e off Commerce om er 4th th off July J y Parade P a e Thank you for voting i us Best Parade in Avery County!
107 Estatoa Avenue • Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-0061 • premierpharmacyinc.com
See you next Independence Day in Banner Elk!
Thank You Customers for voting us
Best of the Best in Avery County 2026
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County
Congratulations to all of the Best of the Best winners!
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Suzanne and Jared Garland with Mountain River Family Campground, which won Best Campground.
BEST OF THE BEST. AGAIN. Because of you.
❤
But the award we’re most proud of is having a community that continues to show up for us, cheer us on, and make Kaye’s By The River part of your lives.
Breakfast & Lunch 8am - 2pm Mon - Tues - Thur - Fri - Sat
Dinner 5pm - 9pm Thur - Fri - Sat
Sunday Brunch 9am - 2pm
Kaye’s By The River | 503 Pineola Street | Newland, NC 28657 828-737-0314 | www.kayesbytheriver.com
Best Medical Practice: Baker Center for Primary Care Best Hospital: Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital Best Surgeon: Thomas Haizlip Jr., MD Best Family Doctor: David P. Kimmel, MD Best Medical Doctor: David P. Kimmel, MD Best Nurse Practitioner: Ella T. Markland, FNP-C, PMHNP
unchealthappalachian.org
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28 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m OPTOMETRIST/OPHTHALMOLOGIST
Western Carolina Eye Associates
PAINTER
Mark Lecka
PHARMACIST
2026 Best of Avery County PSYCHOLOGIST
UNC Health Appalachian Behavioral Health — Ella Markland REAL ESTATE AGENCY
Lacey Realty
Premier Pharmacy — Shayna Cole
REAL ESTATE AGENT
Mountain Hugger Gallery — Joe Nitti
RENTAL AGENCY
Day Watson Physical Therapy — Day Watson
RESORT
Day Watson Physical Therapy
RESTAURANT SERVICE
Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, and Throat — Taylor Phillips
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR
Plumbfast — Chris Autry
SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE
Banner Elk Police Dept. — Logan Blair
STONE FABRICATOR
PHOTOGRAPHER
PHYSICAL THERAPIST
PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINIC PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PLUMBER
POLICE OFFICER
Realty One Group Results — Cary Dominguez Charmed Settings & Co Beech Mountain Ski Resort Stonewalls Restaurant Hunter’s Auto Service Bullfrog Landscaping, Inc Classic Stone Works, Inc.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Cary Dominguez, with her husband, Pictured are Derrick Bond and Dale Ellis with Dolbier Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Samuel, of Realty One Group Results, who won Best Floor Care & Restoration, which won Best Carpet Pictured are Brittany and Trisha Gragg with Pixie Real Estate Agent. Cleaning Service. Produce, which won Best Produce Shop.
averyjournal.com
2026 Best of Avery County SURGEON
Tate Clinic, UNC Health Appalachian — Thomas Haizlip Jr., MD TAX SERVICE
Taylors Taxes
TAXI COMPANY
High Country Black Car Service
TREE SERVICE
CHURCH
BEST MISCELLANEOUS
Henson Creek Baptist Church
CHURCH LEADER
Henson Creek Baptist Church — Kegan Hoilman CIVIC/COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION
Yellow Mountain Enterprises
K & C Tree Service
COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY
Pittman Trucking
FESTIVAL
Avery Animal Hospital — Dr. Brent Jewell
LOCAL SPORTS COACH
Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant — Laura Fritz
MANUFACTURER
TRUCKING/HAULING COMPANY VETERINARIAN WAITRESS
Mayland Community College Woolly Worm Festival Avery Middle School — Ricky Carver Dewoolfson Down
MUSIC VENUE
Old Hampton Store
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST IN AVERY COUNTY.
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2026 Best of Avery County
MUSICAL GROUP
RETAIL STORE EMPLOYEE
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
SCHOOL
Boone & Church
Yellow Mountain Enterprises PARADE
Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce — 4th of July PLACE TO WORK
Yellow Mountain Enterprises PUBLIC SERVANT
Yellow Mountain Enterprises — Dale Trivette
Quick Shop — Paul
Banner Elk Elementary
SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Avery Middle School — Neva Winters TEACHER
Avery Middle School — Chantae Hoilman TOWN
Banner Elk
TOWN MANAGER
Banner Elk — Rick Owen Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mary Jo Brubaker and Sara Brewer with the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, whose 4th of July event won Best Parade.
Proudly Voted Best of the Best! Best Town Best Town Best Town Best Town Manager Manager — — Rick Rick Owen Owen Best Police Best Police Officer Officer — — Logan Logan Blair Blair
Thank you, Thank you, Avery Avery County, County, for for recognizing recognizing our our town town
and community and community leaders. leaders. We We are are honored honored to to serve serve you! you!
Banner Elk, Banner Elk, NC NC
2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Garrick Smith, Debbie Gragg, Sheri Cornett and Melissa Baird of Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, which won Best Monument Company and Best Funeral Home; Smith won Best Funeral Director.
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Thank You, Avery County For the past 25 years you have trusted us with something that matters: your sleep. That means everything to us and we don't take that lightly. Come see us. We would love to help you get a better nights sleep.
Curious why we've been the High Country's #1 choice for all these years? blackberrycreekmattress.com/whychooseus
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Jennifer Nix, Katrina Hicks and Shayna Cole of Premier Pharmacy, which won Best Drug Store and Best Pharmacy; Cole won Best Pharmacist.
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Lori Benfield of Mountain Visions Florist, Pictured are Erika Siegel with My Best Friend’s Pictured is April Gilbert with Mountain Community who won Best Florist. Barkery, which won Best Pet Supply Store. Bank, which won Best Mortgage Company.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Thomas, Luke, Susan and Sharon Pittman with Pittman Trucking, which won Best Trucking/ Hauling Company and Best Mailing/Shipping Store.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Jessica Long of the Avery County Health Department, who won Best Nurse.
2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Michael Dellinger and Easton Short with Stines Insulation, which won Best Insulation Sales & Service.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Carol Smith and Tommy Smith with Amorem, which won Best Hospice Care.
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Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Morgan McKay, Mason McKay, Hailee Seifried and James Russ with Pictured are Jacquie and John Balhouse with The Eclectic Nest & Closet, which The Art Cellar, which won Best Art Gallery. won Best Home Décor Store and Best Men’s Clothing Store.
Thank you for voting us the
Charmed Settings & Co
Best Produce Shop
Luxury Event Rentals | Weddings | Celebrations
in Avery County!
From dreamy tablescapes to statement décor, we handpick every piece so your event feels uniquely you. Serving the High Country & beyond
3979 Mitchell Ave, Linville, NC 28646
(828) 640-6999
You dream it. We style it. 828.260.7969 charmedsettingsandco@gmail.com charmedsettingsandco.com
2026 Best of Avery County
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Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Suzzannah Gittner with The Inn at Shady Lawn, which won Best Pictured are Tracy and Christopher Hutcheson with Tracy’s Huckleberry Bakery, Hotel/Motel. which won Best Bakery.
THANK YOU, AVERY COUNTY! for voting us BEST CHIMNEY SERVICE
EMBER KEEPERS CHIMNEY & FIREPLACE “Crafting peace of mind, one chimney at a time” Licensed & Insured Chimney Water Proofing • Chimney Caps and Chases Video Inspection • Masonry Repairs • Wood Stove Sales Office: 877-934-7668 callemberkeepers.com email: office@callemberkeepers.com
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Heidi Powell, Julia Perry and Sierra Whitehead with Baker Center for Primary Care, UNC Health Appalachian, which won Best Medical Practice. Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital also won Best Hospital. Ella T. Markland, FNP-C, PMHNP of UNC Health Appalachian Behavioral Health, won Best Nurse Practitioner and Best Psychologist. David P. Kimmel, MD of Elk River Medical, UNC Health Appalachian,won Best Family Doctor and Best Medical Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Doctor. Thomas Haizlip Jr., MD of Tate Clinic, UNC Health Appalachian, won Best Pictured are Shelby Taylor, Nena Carpenter and Keturah Weaver with Taylors Surgeon. Taxes, which won Best Tax Service.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chaz James, Zachary and Emily Constantinidis, Tyler Blalock, Nick and Callie London with VPC Builders LLC, which won Best Home Building Company, Best Home Restoration Service, Best Contractor and Best Custom Home Building Company
2026 Best of Avery County
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Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Nathan Webb and Melody Webb, Maria Roberts, Tatum, Mason, Tonia and Joshua with Webb’s Lawn Care, which won Best Landscaping Service.
THANK YOU, AVERY COUNTY Voted Best Realtor Cary Dominguez is honored by your support and grateful for the trust of clients throughout Avery County.
Cary Dominguez
Realty ONE Group Results | Banner Elk
828-789-9282 cary@rogbannerelk.com
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Frances Magruder (Kiwanis), Britt Mason (Chamber) and Claudia Dowsett (Chamber) with the Woolly Worm Festival, which won Best Festival.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Kayla and Chris Wilcox of Waightstill’s Restaurant and Tavern. Kayla won Best Food Service Worker.
Thank you for voting us best of the best in Avery County
THANK YOU For Voting Us
Best Investment Firm B in Avery County!
3618 Mitchell Avenue Linville, NC 28646
Fast. Friendly. Always here when you need us.
QUIK SHOP Quik Shop – Newland 713 Pineola Street • Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-0294
2026 Best of Avery County
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Dale Trivette, Madison Cummings, Jean Buchanan, Justin Turbyfill, Bill Jean McGuire, Heather Swicegood, Rena Hensley and Renee Ingram with Yellow Mountain Enterprises, which won Best Civic/Community Organization, Best Non-Profit Organization, Best Place to Work and Best Public Servant. Yellow Mountain Thrift Store also won Best Place to Find a Bargain and Best Secondhand Store. Also, Avery County Group Home, which won Best Assisted Living.
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Jamie Shell A buffet-style menu greeted winners at dinner Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography A prime rib carving station was part of the food during the Best of Avery ceremony at Appalachian A delicious salad awaited guests at their seats to begin offerings at the 2026 Best of Avery awards View. their meal. ceremony.
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Thank You Avery County for voting us the
Best Trucking Company
Newland, NC • 828-733-2169
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Appalachian View was filled to near capacity for the 2026 Best of Avery awards Award winners were greeted at the door of Appalachian View by members of the celebration on August 11. Mountain Times Publications sales team.
Thank you for voting us Best Power Equipment Dealer
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Equipment • Rentals • Sales •Service 828-898-6301 •www.averyrentall.com
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2026 Best of Avery County
POWERING AVERY COUNTY’S BEST VOTED BEST ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
THANK YOU FOR TRUSTING US TO KEEP THE LIGHTS ON!
LINVILLE RIVER ELECTRIC, INC.
780 Cranberry Street (PO Box 934), Newland, NC 28657 | (828) 260-7467
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Adams Multimedia Regional President Gene Fowler Jr. greets Jessica Long of Becky Buchanan and Mike Lacey share conversation over dinner at the 2026 Avery County Health Department to this year’s Best of Avery awards ceremony. Best of Avery awards event.
2026 Best of Avery County
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2026 Best of Avery County
Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Mountain Visions Florist provided beautiful flowered centerpieces for tables, Todd Wright and High Country Jazz Society brought the music to match the adding color and class to the guest experience. mood at the Best of Avery celebration.
Thank you for 40 years!
Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00 - 6:00 Newland, NC (828)733-0186
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2026 Best of Avery County
Voted 1 #
TASTE WHY!
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2026 Best of Avery County