West Jefferson My Home Town
Page 2
August 28, 2014
Welcome to West Jefferson! Welcome,
First, on behalf of the mayor and board of aldermen, I would like to say welcome to everyone — those who are visiting and those who are planning a visit to Downtown West Jefferson. West Jefferson is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our town has gone through a recent revitalization of our downtown area. You will find our new streetscape apPRICE pealing with the allway stops, decorative curb extensions and live plantings throughout town. The new streetscape has made West Jefferson pedestrian friendly and a walkable downtown. While strolling the streets of
downtown and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, you will find several shops — for example, arts, antiques and a variety of specialty shops. West Jefferson is also home to Ashe County Cheese, the Carolina’s oldest cheese plant. You can actually view cheese being made, and then you may visit the cheese and gift shop. In downtown, you will also find a variety of local restaurants. Each Saturday and Wednesday during the spring, summer and fall seasons, you will enjoy visiting our local Ashe County Farmers Market located on the Backstreet. While visiting downtown, be sure to find the various murals that decorate the walls on several buildings, show-
casing the local history and culture. Also, while in town you will want to drive to the top of Mount Jefferson with an elevation of 4,665 feet that rises 1,600 feet above our downtown. Mount Jefferson has walking trails, overlooks, picnic areas and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Another worthwhile visit in the area is St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, which is decorated with frescoes by renowned artist Ben Long. If you are searching for the small town feel, West Jefferson should be your next destination. We are located only 30 to 40 minutes from Boone and Blowing Rock. Sincerely,
FROM THE MAYOR
A
s the mayor of West Jefferson, I want to welcome you to our town. We take pride in West Jefferson and believe you will see what a great place it is to live and visit. Our town has something for BALDWIN everyone, including friendly merchants and residents, special events throughout the year, works of art, which decorate the town, and Streetscape designs, that not only make our town charming and inviting, but also pedestrian friendly. On behalf of the residents and merchants of West Jefferson, whether you are just visiting our town or are here to stay, we welcome you and hope you enjoy your time here with us. If you are just visiting, we invite you to come back and see us again soon.
Brantley Price, town manager West Jefferson www.Townofwj.com www.visitwestjefferson.org
Dale Baldwin Mayor
Important Numbers and Websites West Jefferson Town Hall West Jefferson Police Dept. Ashe County Sheriff’s Office Ashe County Communications Ashe County Detention Center West Jefferson Post Office Ashe Memorial Hospital Ashe County Health Dept. Mountain Family Care Center Ashe County Schools Ashe County High School Ashe County Middle School Blue Ridge Elementary School Mountain View Elementary Westwood Elementary Ashe County Early Learning Ctr. Ashe Campus — Wilkes CC Ashe Co. Parks and Rec. Ashe County Public Library Ashe County Animal Control Ashe County Humane Society Animal Hospital of Ashe Ashe Animal Clinic Ashe Mountain Times AMT — Watauga office Ashe Chamber of Commerce Blue Ridge Electric Skyline Telephone CenturyLink Ashe County Board of Elections
(336) 246-3551 (336) 246-9410 (336) 846-5633 (336) 846-5600 (336) 846-5611 (336) 246-2601 (336) 846-7101 (336) 246-7959 (336) 846-6322 (336) 246-7175 (336) 846-2400 (336) 384-3591 (336) 384-4500 (336) 982-4200 (336) 877-2921 (336) 846-3221 (336) 846-3900 (336) 982-6185 (336) 846-2041 (336) 982-4060 (336) 982-4297 (336) 246-3441 (336) 246-2341 (336) 246-6397 (828) 246-6397 (336) 846-9550 (336) 846-7138 (336) 877-1350 (336) 246-0100 (336) 846-5570
www.townofwj.com www.townofwj.com www.ashecountysheriff.com www.ashecountysheriff.com www.ashecountysheriff.com www.usps.com www.ashememorial.org www.apphealth.com www.ashememorial.org www.ashe.k12.nc.us www.ashehigh.ashe.k12.nc.us www.ashemiddle.ashe.k12.nc.us www.blueridge.ashe.k12.nc.us www.mountainview.ashe.k12.nc.us www.westwood.ashe.k12.nc.us www.acelc.ashe.schoolfusion.us www.wilkescc.edu/default_Ashe.aspx www.ashecountyparks.com www.arlibrary.org www.asheanimals.com www.ashehumanesociety.org www.animalhospitalofwilkes.com www.ashemountaintimes.com www.mountaintimes.com www.ashechamber.com www.blueridgeemc.com www.skyline.org www.centurylink.com www.ashecountygov.com/departments
Emergency Management (336) 846-5521 Ashe County Planning Board (336) 846-5528 Ashe Register of Deeds (336) 846-5580 Ashe Department of Social Services (336) 846-5700 Ashe County Landfill (336) 982-2527 Ashe Tax Collector (336) 846-5554 Ashe County Tax Administration (336) 846-5554 Ashe County Tax Mapping (336) 846-5555 E911 Address Coordinator (336) 846-5520 Ashe County Trans Authority (336) 846-2000 Ashe County Veterans Services (336) 846-5575 Ashe County Building Inspections (336) 846-5511 N.C. Cooperative Extension (336) 846-5850
www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.actatravel.com www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashe.ces.ncsu.edu
August 28, 2014
West Jefferson My Home Town
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PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
A wall of old photographs of West Jefferson is located next to the Ashe County Cheese store in downtown West Jefferson.
T
Brief history of West Jefferson BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
he small town of West Jefferson began as nothing more than 320 acres of land granted to Col. Ben Cleveland for his struggle in the Battle of King’s Mountain. Prior to this land grant, the land was utilized by hunter-gatherers during the Paleo-Indian period. The 320 acres were granted to Cleveland by Governor Richard Caswell in 1779. The land slowly developed during the next 130 years, and the town of West Jefferson was incorporated in 1909. West Jefferson was chartered by the N.C. General Assembly in 1915. The town would begin to grow with the arrival of the Norfolk and Western Railroad, better known as the Virginia Creeper. West Jefferson became the terminus for the Virginia Creeper in 1933. The town’s growth was boosted by
railroad traffic, which carried freight and lumber. During that time, West Jefferson and the accompanying town, Jefferson, added banks, stores, industries and Ashe Memorial Hospital. However, that growth would be stymied when the Norfolk and Western Railroad Company petitioned the Interstate Commerce Commission to abandon the line in 1974. In 1977, flooding damaged much of the line, and after the tracks were left unrepaired, they were removed. Today, a large portion of West Jefferson’s economy relies on tourism, and visitors can get a glimpse of what life was like in early West Jefferson. Visitors and locals alike can visit the Museum of Ashe County History, or the wall of photos next to the Ashe County Cheese Store. For more information about West Jefferson’s history, call the Museum of Ashe County History at (336) 846-1904.
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West Jefferson My Home Town
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August 28, 2014
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‘Images of America — West Jefferson’ features the history of the town through more than 200 photographs, showcasing residents, businesses and other sights around West Jefferson.
History of West Jefferson can be seen in Images of Ashe BY HEATHER SAMUDIO heather.samudio@mountaintimes.com
R
esidents and visitors to West Jefferson can get an in-depth look at the history of the town through the book, “Images of America — West Jefferson,” which was released in May and features more than 200 photos, most of which have never before been published. The book was released as part of the festivities leading up to West Jefferson’s centennial next year. “We have done two books featuring Ashe County and one on the Virginia Creeper, and we felt like books on West Jefferson and Jefferson would be a good thing to do,” said Lonnie Jones, of the Ashe County Historical Society. “We decided to go ahead with the West Jefferson book because of the centennial celebration.” Book organizers began discussions on the book and acquiring pictures in November 2012. In addition to advertisements to solicit photos, the group contacted people
who had businesses in the town or family living in the town in the 1920s, ’30s and ’40s to ask for photos to use in the book. Jones said they gathered more than 900 photos for the book, but narrowed it down to 202 to use. The books are $21.99 plus tax and can be purchased at the Museum of Ashe County History in Jefferson and can also be found at Sweet and Savory, The Hotel Tavern, Everything Has a Story, Antiques on Main and Ashe County Cheese in West Jefferson. Proceeds from the sale of the book will benefit the historical society. “Every penny that is profit for us goes back to the historical society funds,” Jones said. “We use it to preserve history of the county or publish things that preserve the history of the county.” The book was printed by Arcadia Publishing. For more information about the Ashe County Historical Society, visit www. ashehistoricalsociety.org.
West Jefferson My Home Town
August 28, 2014
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Information to help make West Jefferson your home BY HEATHER SAMUDIO heather.samudio@mountaintimes.com
W
est Jefferson is a beautiful town offering just as many reasons to live here as to visit. Whether you’ve fallen in love with the mountains and scenery, or you’re ready for a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, we’ve compiled some information that will help you in your move to the town.
Buying or building a home If you haven’t found a home or apartment in the town, there are many real estate professionals, architects and designers in the area ready to assist you. Experienced and professional realtors can be found by visiting www.highcountryrealtors.org. Real estate offices, rental companies, architects, local homebuilders and contractors can also be found through the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce. The chamber can be found online at www.ashechamber.com or contacted by calling (336) 846-9550, or (888) 3432743 from outside Ashe County. The Ashe County Homebuilders As-
sociation is also an excellent resource if you’re looking to build or renovate a home in West Jefferson. The ACHBA can be found online at www.ashehomebuilders.com or can be contacted by calling (828) 238-7137.
Finding a job If you need to find a job in the area, there are many avenues you can take to find employment. The Ashe Mountain Times classified listings features employment opportunities in the print edition of the newspaper, with the newest edition found in racks around West Jefferson every Thursday. The listings can also be viewed online at www.ashemountaintimes.com. North Carolina’s Division of Employment Security is located at 626 Ashe Central School Road, Unit 5, in Jefferson. The office is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Job seekers can also visit DES online at https://desncc.com/deshome.
Utilities Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation supplies electricity to the area. Blue Ridge Energies is a subsidiary
of the company and offers propane and heating services. Blue Ridge Electric offices are located at 2375 N.C. Highway 163 in West Jefferson. For more information about electric services, call (336) 246-7138 or visit www.blueridgeemc.com. For propane and heating services, call (336) 846-2421 or visit www.blueridgeenergies.com. In the town limits, residents can get water services and schedule trash or brush pick up by contacting the Town Hall at 1 South Jefferson Ave. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Town Hall can also be contacted at (336) 246-3551. Telephone and Internet services can be purchased through a couple of different providers. Skyline Membership Corporation and Skybest Communications have provided telephone service for more than 60 years. In addition to telephone service, the company also offers Internet, cable TV and security services. Skyline is located at 1060 Mount Jefferson Road in West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 2467138 or visit www.skybest.com. CenturyLink also provides telephone
service in the county. For more information, call (800) 366-8201 or visit www. centurylink.com. Cable TV services can also be purchased through Morris Broadband. The office is located at 360 South Main St. in Jefferson. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and closed each day from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call (888) 8559036 or the Hendersonville headquarters at (336) 692-3278 or visit www.morrisbroadband.com.
Other information Visitors or new residents of the area can change their voter registration information through the Ashe County Board of Elections. The board office is located in the Ashe County Courthouse on Government Circle in Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 8465570. Individuals who need to renew their driver’s license can find the examiner’s office at the Law Enforcement Center at 140 Government Circle in Jefferson. The office can be contacted by phone at (336) 246-5001. The number for the tag office is (336) 846-5530.
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West Jefferson My Home Town
Page 6
August 28, 2014
PHOTO BY HEATHER SAMUDIO
PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
Ashe County High School is the home of the Huskies and serves ninth- through 12th-grade students in the county.
This house on Nettle Knob Road overlooks the town of West Jefferson.
Ashe County features A place to settle down top-notch schools W A BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
est Jefferson means different things for different people. For some, the town is a destination for a quick vacation to take in the sights and explore the great outdoors. For others, West Jefferson is a place to settle down. And why not? West Jefferson sits 3,000 feet above sea level, making the summers cool, the winters cold and the autumns beautiful. In fact, many people visit the area just for a chance to see the trees after their leaves change color. Some of the most beautiful homes in the High Country can be seen overlooking
West Jefferson. Also, several gated communities are tucked away in the mountains along the outskirts of town. West Jefferson is full of numerous dining options, outdoor activities, unique shops and seasonal festivals. The town is also home to Westwood Elementary School, Ashe County High School, and the Ashe County Public Library. Each of these facilities is relatively new, and the library is constantly planning new and innovative activities for children. With a laid-back environment, beautiful scenery and activities, West Jefferson is an ideal place to settle down. For more information about local real estate professionals, visit www.highcountryrealtors.org/.
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she County is home to a high school, a middle school, three elementary schools, an early learning center and a college campus. Todd Holden is the superintendent of Ashe County Schools, which include Ashe County High, Ashe County Middle, Blue Ridge Elementary, Mountain View Elementary and Westwood Elementary. Ashe County High School serves ninththrough 12th-grade students and is known as the home of the Huskies. Jason Krider is the ACHS principal.
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In the 2011-2012 school year, the School of Distinction recognition was received by ACHS. The school’s campus is located at 184 Campus Dr. in West Jefferson, situated at the base of Mount Jefferson. Seventh- and eighth-grade students attend Ashe County Middle School. The principal is Earl Pennington. ACMS is located at 255 Northwest Lane in Warrensville and is home of the Bulldogs. ACMS has been named as a National Forum School to Watch and was one of SEE SCHOOLS, PAGE 7
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West Jefferson My Home Town
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The Ashe Early Learning Center is housed in the former West Jefferson Elementary School and is located in downtown West Jefferson. The center is a five-star, public school prekindergarten program.
SCHOOLS FROM PAGE 7
only two state schools to receive the recognition. The county’s elementary schools serve students from prekindergarten through sixth-grade. Blue Ridge Elementary School is located at 5778 N.C. Highway 88 West in Warrensville. Callie Grubb is the principal. BRES is a Leader in Me school, which means the school has the vision and language to lead the school in a way that addresses all areas of development, according to officials. Mountain View Elementary School is located at 2789 U.S. Highway 221 North in Jefferson. David Blackburn is the principal. MVES earned the designation as a Model School in the North Carolina Positive Behavior Intervention and Support Initiative. The school received High-Performance School Recognition for the 2012-2013 year, an honor the school received for the third consecutive year. For the second year in a row, MVES received recognition as a Title I Reward School in 2012-2013. Westwood Elementary School calls West Jefferson home and is located off U.S. Highway 221 South. Jennifer Robinson is the principal. WES has also received a School of Distinction honor. In its mission statement, the school states that it enables every student to reach their highest potential by establishing a curriculum that meets or exceeds government standards for education. The Ashe Early Learning Center is a five-star, public school prekindergarten program. The center’s goal is to provide high qual-
Page 7
ity, developmentally appropriate education that will meet the diverse needs of all participating children and prepare them for a positive and successful educational experience through partnerships with families and the community. AELC’s vision is to see that all children from the program enter kindergarten on the same level as all other children in the district who enter kindergarten. The Ashe County Board of Education is the supervisory board that oversees all matters pertaining to the public schools of the district. For more information about Ashe County Schools, visit www.ashe.k12.nc.us/. The Ashe Campus of Wilkes Community College is located behind ACHS, at the base of Mount Jefferson. The college offers seven full degree programs, including a college transfer curriculum which parallels the coursework required during the first two years of study at four-year colleges and universities. Technical degrees offered at the campus include accounting, business administration, early childhood education, electrical and electronics technology, human services technology and industrial systems technology. The college works closely with ACHS to offer early enrollment for high school students, allowing the students to take college courses while still attending high school. Continuing education courses and certifications can also be earned at the college. WCC’s business and industry training team works with local business and industry to design courses to increase the skill level of the local workforce. Both on-site and online classes are available For more information about WCC’s Ashe Campus, visit www.wilkescc.edu/default_ Ashe.aspx.
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West Jefferson My Home Town
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August 28, 2014
The coolest corner of North Carolina BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
A
she County has been called the “coolest corner of North Carolina,” and nowhere is this exemplified more than West Jefferson. West Jefferson doesn’t really have a rush hour; it has a rush minute. Of course, that “don’t rush” feeling is part of the appeal of this diverse, artistic town nestled in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains. According to Cabot Hamilton, director of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce, West Jefferson has two great assets: friendly people and beautiful scenery. Along with the innate beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, streetscaping projects have contributed to West Jefferson’s aesthetic appeal. “A combination of the DOT (Department of Transportation) and the town aldermen working together really rejuvenated West Jefferson,” Hamilton said. According to Hamilton, the DOT’s addition of the crosswalks and bump-outs in 2013 made West Jefferson more pedestri-
an friendly. Also, the West Jefferson town aldermen’s decision to add the antique streetlights and hide the wiring from view added an “it” factor to the town. For these beautification efforts, West Jefferson received the N.C. Small Town Main Street Award on March 31, 2013. “As a result, more people are coming to West Jefferson, because it’s a pleasant place to walk, shop and visit,” Hamilton said. “Because the people are coming since the town is more pedestrian friendly, stores are coming, so vacancies are filling up. It’s all a plus.” According to Hamilton, West Jefferson business Scarlett Creek relocated from Boone, Mo’s Boots and Art of Oil expanded out of Boone and Perry’s Gold Mine expanded out of Charlotte, as did Carolina Country Wines. “You start looking at what all has developed as a result of the beautification of West Jefferson … it’s phenomenal,” Hamilton said. According to Hamilton, West Jefferson “has been found” by visitors and neighboring towns.
PHOTOS BY JAMES HOWELL
The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce is located in the middle of West Jefferson, across the street from Mo’s Boots. He said a group of several people from Boone and Blowing Rock recently visited West Jefferson to see how the town has developed during the last couple years. Hamilton said this is an indication that the town’s beautification efforts have been worth the effort. “At this point in time, I don’t see a negative,” Hamilton said. “But it could become a negative if we don’t manage, in a progressive manner, the growth that’s going to follow.” Of course, West Jefferson is more than streetlights and nice scenery. What makes West Jefferson the artistic niche town it has become are all the special events, and the people who plan them. “We have a multitude of special events, many of which are free,” Hamilton said.
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“The Gallery Crawls are free, the concerts in the park are free and the festivals are free.” The festivals include the Christmas in July Festival, the Antiques Festival, the Fiddlers’ Convention and more. Also, West Jefferson will be adding lights to the town this year for the holiday season. “There’s enough activity going on to think you’re in Raleigh,” Hamilton said. “All of the entities that are trying to put on events and activities to attract more visitors to the county are accomplishing really great things.” For more information about West Jefferson, contact the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce at www.ashechamber.com or call (336) 846-9550.
August 28, 2014
West Jefferson My Home Town
PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
The campus at Ashe Memorial Hospital offers a variety of services for patients seeking assistance.
Local medical services
L
BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
ocated a few minutes away in neighboring Jefferson, Ashe Memorial Hospital provides a variety of medical services for area residents. For more than 75 years, Ashe Memorial Hospital has provided the highest quality medical care available to the people of Jeffersons and surrounding areas. The hospital’s board-certified physicians, nurses and staff are members of the High Country community and work diligently to keep that community as healthy as possible, officials said. At Ashe Memorial Hospital, patients receive routine and emergency medical care, and have access to wellness services and community resources. The hospital’s emergency room delivers 24-hour emergency services to the Jefferson and Ashe County communities. Also, the Mountain Family Care Center provides urgent care services during convenient hours, including nights and weekends. Since this facility is located on the Ashe Memorial campus, the emergency department is located nearby if patients need a higher level of care. The Wilma Vannoy Birthing Center is home to state-of-the-art labor and delivery services. Prenatal care is used to help expecting mothers have as healthy pregnancies as possible, and quality care for both mother and baby after delivery
can set new mothers’ minds at ease, officials said. Mountain Hearts Fitness Center offers gym equipment and exercises classes aimed at helping locals live healthier, more active lives. This facility is open to the public. These are well-established services for the area, and have been enhanced with the addition of a pediatric service. According Ashe Memorial Hospital CEO Laura Lambeth, a new goal has been set for Ashe Memorial to provide as many services to locals as possible. By adding new doctors and new services, local residents will not be forced to leave the county for medical treatment, except in special cases. “We’ve got some new physicians coming in,” Lambeth said. “A big one is Blue Ridge Pediatrics.” Blue Ridge Pediatrics began visiting Ashe Memorial Hospital every Monday and Friday starting on July 1. According to Gregory Adams, a pediatrician from Blue Ridge Pediatrics, if two days per week works well for Ashe clients, Blue Ridge Pediatrics may expand its service to three days per week, with the addition of Wednesday. “Since we started our practice in October of 1992, we’ve had a desire to always improve the service we provide to people in this area,” Adams said. “We were excited when we found out we had an opportunity to expand to Ashe County.”
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West Jefferson My Home Town
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August 28, 2014
A message from Wilkes Community College BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
A
s West Jefferson has grown over the years, the Ashe Campus of Wilkes Community College has been there every step of the way. “West Jefferson is unique; a rural downtown that is not only surviving but thriving,” Town Manager Chris Robinson said. “That is a great compliment to Brantley (Price) and the town staff, but also speaks highly of the elected officials.” According to Robinson, WCC provides seminars and customized training pro-
grams to fit the needs of the West Jefferson business community. “The Ashe Campus considers West Jefferson one of our most important partners, particularly in the area of economic development,” the associate vice president of Ashe Campus Wilkes Community College, Robinson said. From tax workshops for small businesses to major training programs such as the one about to begin at GE Aerospace, the goal of WCC is to provide quality training that helps the town to recruit and retain businesses. According to Robinson, the college has
played a significant role in helping to retain businesses throughout the West Jefferson community. During the years, WCC has invested thousands of dollars in training for larger employers, providing a low-cost, proven workforce development system that has allowed companies to maintain and grow. Also, WCC’s Small Business Center has worked with numerous existing and potential businesses, offering one-on-one consultative services that are free of charge to the company. This is an invaluable service to a prospective business owner or one who is looking to grow.
“For a business owner, you have a chance to be part of something special, a caring community that embraces its heritage but is progressive in its attitude,” Robinson said. “With hard work and a good idea, you can and will be successful.” For these reasons, and the beautiful scenery, Robinson said West Jefferson is a nice place for business owners to relocate to. “As a homeowner, it’s a beautiful town with the amenities one often only finds in a bigger town or city,” Robinson said. “And you will get to know your neighbors and find they genuinely care about you. What more could you ask for?”
Shopping Downtown BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
A
nyone walking up and down the streets of downtown West Jefferson might notice something intriguing: All of the shops in town are truly unique. Rather than seeing a flood of branded shops, a passerby might notice shops such as the Honey Hole, a specialty shop that sells honey, bee-
keeping supplies, candles and bathing supplies. Another specialty shop located in West Jefferson is Tis The Season. This store sells Christmas ornaments, along with other products, that are sure to get shoppers into the Christmas spirit. From 2012-2013, several new shops moved into West Jefferson to fill vacant buildings. Cabot Hamilton, the director of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce,
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attributes this to greater foot traffic in town after West Jefferson’s beautification project was completed. Once the town was made pedestrian friendly, business owners from Boone and Charlotte began viewing West Jefferson as a potential oasis for tourism, and some relocated to West Jefferson. According to Hamilton, the following businesses moved to West Jefferson during the past two years: Scarlett Creek, relocated from Boone; Mo’s Boots and Art of Oil expanded out of Boone; and Perry’s Gold Mine and Carolina Country Wines both expanded out of Charlotte. The town also boasts an impressive number of art galleries, totaling 16 in all. These include the Artist Theater on Main Street and Catchlight Gallery on Jefferson Avenue. Along with having a artistic culture, the town is also an ideal location for antique hunters. Antiques on Main is basically a warehouse full of antiques, and Past and Present Antiques is also a collector’s dream. More businesses, both in and outside of West Jefferson, can be found in the 2014 Ashe County Visitors Guide.
PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
Shoppers gather inside the Art of Oil in West Jefferson during a Friday night Gallery Crawl. Antiques on Main 842 South Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-1231
Hometown Furniture 739 U.S. Hwy. 221 Business West Jefferson (336) 246-9969
Quiet Country Amish Furniture 109 E. Main St. West Jefferson (336) 846-2717
Backstreet Beads and Handcrafted Jewelry 111-A North Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 877-7686
The Honey Hole 6 N. Third Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-BEES (2337)
Railroad Pawn LLC 109 Backstreet West Jefferson (336) 246-3836
Mo’s Boots 2 North Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-2668
Scott Harris Guitar Shop 109 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-1204
Mountain View TV Center 607-C S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-4388
Shatley Springs Uptown Jewelry & Gifts 111-B North Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-6795
Pam’s Unique Boutique 105 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-1651
Tabadee’s & The Ornament Collection 301 Backstreet West Jefferson (336) 846-3636
Browse About Book Exchange 3-A N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-3502 The Cabin Store 1101 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-5647 Carolina Country Wines 7 North Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-4848 Double A Boot Store 1750 N.C. Hwy. 88 West West Jefferson (336) 246-4343 The Garnet Rose Soap Co. LLC 120 Mesa Way West Jefferson (336) 982-3255
Past and Present Antiques 113 North Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-3311 Perry’s Gold Mine 4 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-2274
Tis The Season For All Seasons 14 South Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-9488 Unique Productions Inc. 202 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 877-4328
West Jefferson My Home Town
August 28, 2014
Culinary options in West Jefferson BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
W
est Jefferson has several diverse restaurants spread throughout the town that ensure solid dining options for everyone, no matter their personal tastes. Many restaurant options in West Jefferson offer traditional American food, such as sandwiches, hamburgers and french fries. These traditional cafe-like restaurants include Black Jack’s Pub & Grill, Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant, the Candy Shack and Mercantile, Hillbilly Grill, People’s Drug Store, Smithey’s and the Sweet & Savory Bakery and Deli. Naturally, West Jefferson has restaurants that offer
Carolina-style barbecue, along with all the fixings. These barbecue restaurants include Smoky Mountain Barbecue and When Pigs Fly BBQ and Wings. West Jefferson also offers culturally diverse restaurants such as Shokudo Japanese Seafood and Mexican restaurant Casa Garcia. The Hotel Tavern offers a wide variety of options, such as traditional American food, Italian food and pizza. Village Inn Pizza also offers pizza. Each dining option in West Jefferson truly brings something unique to the table. Black Jack’s Pub & Grill 18 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-3295
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Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant 108 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-5222 Candy Shack Café & Mercantile 14 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-1099 Casa Garcia 247 Mount Jefferson Rd. West Jefferson (336) 246-2133 Hillbilly Grill 601 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-4745 The Hotel Tavern 5 West Main St. West Jefferson (336) 846-2121 McDonald’s of West Jefferson 11 Ashemont Shopping Center West Jefferson (336) 246-3061 Mountain Aire Seafood and Steaks 9930 Hwy. 16 S.
PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
Before being seated to a meal or visiting the bar, patrons of Boondocks may be greeted by, from left, hostess Michaela McElhaney, service manager Amanda Pettersen or general manager Jared Yelton. West Jefferson (336) 982-3060 Park Vista Inn and Restaurant 1907 Park Vista Rd. West Jefferson (336) 877-5200 Peoples Drug Store 423 E. Second St. West Jefferson (336) 246-9990
Shokudo Japanese Seafood 920 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-6999
Sweet & Savory Bakery & Deli 6 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-8888
Smithey’s 117 Backstreet West Jefferson (336) 846-7737
Village Inn Pizza 423 U.S. Hwy. 221 S. Business West Jefferson (336) 846-2200
Smoky Mountain Barbecue 1008 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-6818
When Pigs Fly BBQ and Wings 247 Mount Jefferson Road West Jefferson (336) 846-4747
Preparing for our future...and Yours Under the leadership of Novant Health, Ashe Memorial Hospital’s primary focus during the past year has to been to increase services offered to the residents of Ashe County. We are pleased to announce that we have entered into new agreements that will allow Ashe Memorial to provide additional healthcare services to the community and keep our residents from traveling outside the county.
New services include: • Cardiology – Dr. Jeanette Billett with Novant Health Ashe Cardiology has an office in the Segraves Building at Ashe Memorial Hospital. Dr. Billett sees patients 5 days a week. For more information or to make an appointment call 846-8100. • Hospitalist Program – Hospitalists are physicians whose primary focus is general medical care of the hospitalized patient. Our hospitalists provide 24 hour in-hospital care and can respond to patients and their families promptly. • Orthopedics – OrthoCarolina has an office on the campus of Ashe Memorial Hospital. In addition to performing surgeries at Ashe Memorial, they see patients in their Ashe Office 3 days a week. For more information or to make an appointment give them a call at 828-264-1100. • Otolaryngology – Blue Ridge Ear Nose & Throat has an office on the 3rd Floor of the hospital. Dr. Charles Ford performs surgeries on Monday mornings at the hospital and sees patients on Monday afternoons. For more information or to schedule an appointment call Blue Ridge Ear Nose & Throat at 828-264-4545. • Pediatrics - Blue Ridge Pediatrics sees patients every Monday and Friday of each week in their new location in the Segraves Building at the hospital. For more information or to schedule your appointment, contact Blue Ridge Pediatrics at 828-262-0100.
Ashe Memorial Hospital
200 Hospital Avenue • Jefferson, NC 28640 • 336-846-7101 www.AsheMemorial.org
West Jefferson My Home Town
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August 28, 2014
28th Christmas in July a success However, Lonon also attributed the festival’s success to the tireless efforts of local volunteers. ow that the 28th annual Christmas According to Lonon, the Christmas in in July festival has come and gone, July Committee works year-round to plan and the voices of vendors have each festival. been heard, this year’s festival has been The combination of picturesque weather deemed one of and long-term planthe best in recent ning attracted an memory. above-average crowd “It was the best during the weekend, one ever. I really July 4 and 5. think so,” Jane Lo“We had a much bignon, vice president ger crowd than we had of the Christmas last year,” said John in July Committee, Smyre, a member of said. “It was a 101 the Christmas in July percent success.” Committee. Lonon said the “I’d almost venture festival showcased to say we had 4,000 what’s good about people show up on West Jefferson PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL Friday evening,” Smyre and, by extension, Thousands gather on Main Street in West Jef- said. what’s good about ferson for the 28th annual Christmas in July He also estimated Festival. Ashe County. the attendance for According to Lonon, the success of this Saturday to be between 12,000 and 14,000 year’s festival hinged on several factors, people. including the weekend’s near perfect According to Smyre, one vendor who’s weather. been involved with the festival for many “Certainly, the weather added to the suc- years informed him that this was the largcess of the festival,” she said. est crowd in recent memory. BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
N
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The vendor, Smyre mentioned, wasn’t the only one who thought so. According to Lonon, nearly 200 vendors were involved in the festival; 25 of which were food vendors and 30 represented nonprofit organizations. “I actually had people approach me during the festival asking about booths for next year,” she said. “Vendors asked, but so did average visitors.” Lonon said the Christmas in July Committee will soon begin planning the 2015 festival, looking for vendors and planning
PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
A large crowd gathers outside of the Parkway Theater in West Jefferson.
Entertainment in West Jefferson BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
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logistics. The Christmas in July Festival began to promote tourism in Ashe County by drawing thousands to downtown West Jefferson. Since its beginning 28 years ago, the Christmas in July Festival has undergone several changes, including moving from Main Street to Jefferson Avenue. However, the spirit of the festival has remained the same: to draw visitors to the area and promote the local Christmas tree industry.
S
ometimes, the laid-back environment of West Jefferson causes locals to forget about how many activities actually take place in and around the town. OK, so there aren’t any nightclubs or professional sports teams in town, but stop and take count of what West Jefferson has to offer: two major annual festivals, Gallery Crawls, the Backstreet Concert Series, live music venues, two golf courses, the Parkway Theater, Skatezone, Cardinal Lanes bowling alley and activities at the library and West Jefferson Park. Each summer, West Jefferson hosts the Christmas in July Festival, which had a higher than average attendance in 2014. Also, the third annual Olde Time Antiques Festival will be held Sept. 19-20. According to Keith Woodie, president of the West Jefferson Business Association, the 2014 Antiques Festival has tripled in size compared to previous years. Woodie expects the Antiques Festival to rival the size of the Christmas in July Festival. West Jefferson also offers several rec-
reational options, such as the Jefferson Landing and Mountain Aire golf clubs. If golf is not your pursuit, there are other activities. The Cardinal Lanes bowling alley is a perfect alternative for family fun. Cardinal Lanes isn’t just a bowling alley, also has a mini golf course. On the other side of West Jefferson is Skate Zone, a skating rink located at 498 Beaver Creek School Rd., West Jefferson. But activities such as golf, bowling and skating take some skill. The Parkway Theater, however, is the one constant form of entertainment in West Jefferson that everyone can enjoy. This movie theater has two movie screens and is heavily attended on most weekends. More activities are available outside West Jefferson’s town limits. A well-known disc golf course is located inside Ashe County Park in Jefferson. Also, Zaloo’s Canoes Kayaks and Tubes, a water recreation store and provider, is located in Jefferson. For more information about entertainment in West Jefferson, visit the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce at www. ashechamber.com or call (336) 846-9550.
West Jefferson My Home Town
August 28, 2014
2015 West Jefferson Centennial Celebration
2013
You Rock! Voted Ashe County’s
BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
Best Assisted Living
T
he town of West Jefferson will celebrate its centennial in 2015 and activities leading up to the event began earlier this year. The release of a photo history book, “Images of America — West Jefferson,” in May kicked off the festivities, and the W.J. Centennial Commission is planning to host a community picnic for the descendants of the town’s first land purchasers. West Jefferson began its rise, developing around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot in the early 1900s. In February 1915, the N.C. General Assembly chartered the town. With the town’s 100th birthday next year, the commission is preparing to celebrate and invites residents and visitors alike to join in the various events. “Everyone is invited to join us during the centennial celebration as we reflect on the past, look forward to the second century of this special town as we continue to create our history,” said Lynn Rees-Jones, coordinator of the WJCC. “This is our town’s birthday, so we want everyone to help celebrate and be involved.” The community picnic is next on the list of activities and it is reserved for the descendants of land purchasers from the West Jefferson Land Company’s first day of sales. On Sept. 7, 1914, 58 purchasers bought parcels of land in what would become the incorporated town of West Jefferson five months later on Feb. 9, 1915. Rees-Jones said they will have a recognition ceremony and community picnic for the descendants of those original purchasers. The celebration will be held in conjunction with the Olde Time Antiques Fair in
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for 4 years in a row!
We strive to continue offering Ashe residents the best care possible including the opening of our new Horizons neighborhood, an area specifically designed to care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia.
GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION SUBMITTED
The West Jefferson centennial logo features images reminiscent of a train, paying homage to the town developing around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot. The logo was designed by local artist Stephen Shoemaker, who also serves as a West Jefferson alderman. West Jefferson on Sept. 19 and 20. The group has located 59 descendants so far and is still searching for others. A Centennial Checkers Tournament will also be held in conjunction with the antiques fair. Preliminary rounds will be held, leading up to a grand champion. “Checkers is such a universal game with historical appeal and can be played by nearly everyone,” Rees-Jones said. “Whether young or old, casual or serious players, community members are encouraged to participate.” The tournament will be organized by Jay E. Blevins, who has organized numerous tournaments in the past along with John K. Reeves. Rees-Jones said the commission members have talked to several community groups about hosting centennial events and many of those have ideas or plans in the works for various events. Some of the ideas include a Centennial Book Club with the Ashe County Public Library, a Centennial Celebration Exhibit with the Ashe County Arts Council, a heritage crafts event with Florence Thomas Art
School and possibly a Centennial Fun Run and Walk. Other events planned include a video history of West Jefferson with a film debut and reception with cake, a community photography contest through Catchlight Gallery, musical performances and more. In 2015, a 100th Birthday Party and Homecoming will be held during the summer; however, details for the event are still in the planning stages. The WJCC is currently selling centennial bricks, which came from the Old Hotel which was built in 1917. The bricks were handmade on the fields near the Ashe County Public Library. The hotel suffered wind damage earlier this year, and the WJCC collected some of the fallen bricks for the sale. “Each brick is one of a kind and has a unique plaque identifying it as a Centennial Brick from the Old Hotel, built in 1917,” Rees-Jones said. The cost is $25 and orders are being taken now. The group hopes to sell 100 bricks. To pre-order a brick or for more information, email info@westjefferson100.com.
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(336) 246-4151 #3 E. State Street P.O. Box 1833 West Jefferson, NC 28694
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West Jefferson My Home Town
August 28, 2014
West Jefferson is home to active arts district loop trails featuring the barn quilts. Individuals can find loop trail maps online at www.ashecountyarts.org/barn-quilts and explore any of the six self-guided driving trails in the county. Information can also be picked up at the Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson. At times throughout the year, the arts council offers guided barn quilt tours, beginning and ending at the arts center in West Jefferson. These are two-hour adventures, with a docent narrating the tour, telling the barn quilts’ stories and giving information on other sights along the way. According to Jane Lonon with the arts council, the economic impact of the project on Ashe County has been the creation of several businesses that produce barn quilts.
BY HEATHER SAMUDIO heather.samudio@mountaintimes.com
W
est Jefferson features an everevolving arts district in the downtown area with a variety of artistic mediums, multiple artisans, 14 murals, painted fire hydrants known as Arts on Fire and the painted pedestals project “Wildflowers of Ashe.” The Ashe County Arts Council and the Florence Thomas Art School serve as the hub for many of the town’s artists, showcasing various exhibits, programs and workshops. The arts council was founded in 1977 and focuses on promoting the arts in Ashe County and to its visitors. The council coordinates many of the town’s cultural activities, from barn quilt tours to gallery crawls.
Barn quilts ACAC brought together members of the community to design, paint and mount quilt block paintings on barns throughout the area as part of the Ashe Arts Barn Quilt Project. The project brings together quilts as a symbol of comfort and family and barns as a symbol of the area’s heritage and
PHOTO BY HEATHER SAMUDIO
The ‘New River Tradition’ mural is featured on the side of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce’s and Visitor Center’s building at the corner of Main Street and Jefferson Avenue. community. The project’s goal is to create visual images of “who we are and where we come from.” A barn quilt is a painted quilt pattern created on exterior grade signboard that is attached to a barn or farm outbuilding. The quilt squares have taken the public art of the downtown area into all the geographic sections of Ashe County.
The arts council created its first barn quilt in 2005 with funding assistance from HandMade in America. Approximately 200 barn quilts can be found in Ashe County. Some of the barn quilts were sponsored by the arts council, while others were created by individuals on their own. The county has been divided into six
Gallery crawls On the second Friday of each month, the arts council hosts the town’s gallery crawl from June through October. The crawls are a communitywide event, with galleries, restaurants and artists welcoming crawlers throughout the evening, with many businesses staying open later than normal hours. SEE ARTS, PAGE 15
West Jefferson My Home Town
August 28, 2014
Page 15
Civic clubs and nonprofit organizations A Safe Home for Everyone
Robin Falkner
(336) 982-8851
American Legion Post #275
dvdirector@ashechildren.org
Ashe Pregnancy Care Center
Roger Newton
celliott@skybest.com
Ashe Masonic Lodge
Jeffrey T. Jones
(336) 846-4100
APCCLIFE@skybest.com Harley@skybest.com
American Red Cross — Ashe
Eula Blevins
(336) 982-2164
Ashe Medication Assistance
Shelley Elliott
(336) 846-6001
shelleymedassist@yahoo.com
Ashe Baptist Association
David Blackburn
(336) 846-5631
www.ashebaptist.org
Ashe Really Cares
Pat Miller
(336) 846-5234
ashereallycares@yahoo.com
Ashe Co. Arts Council
Jane Lonon
(336) 846-2787
www.ashecountyarts.org
Ashe Sharing Center
Michael Sexton
(336) 846-7019
Ashe Co. Choral Society
Jane Lonon
(336) 846-2787
jane@ashecountyarts.org
Ashe Shrine Club
John Brown
(336) 877-4977
Ashe Co. Habitat for Humanity
(336) 846-2525
www.ashehabitat.org
Disabled American Veterans
Ashe County Humane Society
(336) 982-4297
www.ashehumanesociety.org
Florence Thomas Art School
Meghan Minton
Ashe Co. Little Theatre
(336) 846-2787
Friends of the Ashe Co. Library
Karen Moll
Ashe Piecemakers Quilt Guild
Vicki Duckworth
(336) 973-3326
Ashe Co. Senior Center
Louise Caudill
(336) 246-4347
Ashe Historical Society
Jerry Brown
Ashe Outreach Ministries
Rob Brooks
Ashe Partnership for Children
Kay Philipp
ARTS FROM PAGE 14
Some of the galleries and businesses plan special events during the crawls or feature new artwork for visitors to view and purchase. Some merchants host musical entertainers for the evening, and some musicians can be found along the streets greeting crawlers. Visitors during the crawl can find a variety of artwork, including photography, paintings, handmade crafts, antique works of art, barn quilts, pottery, stained glass, quilts, jewelry and more. The arts council sponsors the crawls along with the West Jefferson Business Association and the West Jefferson Tourism Development Authority.
Murals
In 1996, the downtown mural project was jump-started when McFarland and Company Inc. Publishers commissioned local artist Jack Young to create the mural “History of Ashe Through the Ages,” on the Regency Properties building, beside the Ashe Arts Center. Two years later, two more murals were funded, including “Spring Wildflowers on Mt. Jefferson” and “New River Traditions.” Today, several murals grace the town, with themes of music and history, such as featured on “New River Traditions,” to the Virginia Creeper Railroad on “Cut at Devil Stairs.” The “Wings and Things” mural on the wall of Ashe County Cheese’s plant production building was a partnership between the North Carolina Museum of Art, Ashe County High School’s Project 540 and the Ashe County Arts Council. More than 125 students and community volunteers painted the mural during a three-day weekend, led by artists Earle Klutz Thompson and
(336) 982-9044
www.ashequilters.org
Museum of Ashe County History Rebecca Renfroe
www.asheaging.com
Rotary Club of the Jeffersons
www.ashehistoricalsociety.org
West Jefferson Business Assoc.
(336) 385-3663
www.asheoutreach.org
West Jefferson Lion’s Club
(336) 982-4588
www.ashechildren.org
Raines Thompson. Area students were also involved in the “Unity in Diversity” mural, which is featured on the side of the former Geno’s building. Artist Marianne DiNapoli-Mylet worked with Ashe County Middle School students to create a mural which would reflect the landscape of the county, including the music and the people. The mural was created as part of an Arts in Education Residency Grant funded by the North Carolina Arts Council, a state agency, and Ashe Middle School. The project was also sponsored by Handmade in America, the West Jefferson Community Partnership and the arts council.
Painted pedestals and Arts on Fire The arts council has also headed up the painted pedestal and Arts on Fire projects. The painted pedestals can be found along the streets of West Jefferson and feature wildflowers and greenery that can be found in the area. The Arts on Fire project features painted fire hydrants throughout the town, with designed created by local and regional artists. For more information about the Ashe County Arts Council or Ashe Arts Center, visit www.ashecountyarts.org or call (336) 846-2787.
Florence Thomas Art School The Florence Thomas Art School is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to providing resources for instruction, exhibition and experiences in the fine arts and heritage crafts for Ashe County. The school works to promote and preserve the Florence Thomas legacy and provides exhibition space for other artists. Florence Thomas was born in Ashe County in 1909 and died nearby on March 30, 2007, at 98 years old. Her work featured an impressionistic style. She taught painting in the basement
W42PFC@yahoo.com
(336) 846-3827
www.florenceartschool.org kandr@skybest.com
(336) 846-1904
Cameron Keziah
www.ashehistory.org jeffersonsrotary@gmail.com www.westjeffersonbusiness.com
Pete Yates
of her home for 20 years. Thomas helped form the Blue Ridge Art Clan in Ashe County to pool resources so she could bring teachers to the county and her students could continue to get critiques on their work. Her legacy and idea were able to continue after her death when she left the funds to establish a nonprofit art school locally. Workshops are held at the school, allowing adults and youth to learn to create or
(336) 877-0176
ashearc@skybest.com
design artwork, from watercolor paintings and still life pastels to barn quilts and botanical collages. The school hosts paint-outs throughout the year, participates in gallery crawls and features various demonstrations by artists, in addition to other events. The school is located at 10 South Jefferson Avenue in West Jefferson. For more information, visit www.florenceartschool. org or call (336) 846-3827.
West Jefferson My Home Town
Page 16
August 28, 2014
Ashe County Farmers Market Local Christmas trees: quality BY HEATHER SAMUDIO heather.samudio@mountaintimes.com
T
he Ashe County Farmers Market is a favorite West Jefferson location to visit on Saturday mornings for shoppers looking for locally made crafts and locally grown food and produce. The market is located on Backstreet in West Jefferson and features a covered vendor area, as well as an enclosed section. Earlier this year, the market underwent an expansion, adding four feet of additional walking space for customers in the center aisle, which ACFM manager John Smyre said would allow more access and better flow for visitors to the market. The market is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays from April through October. Market vendors also participate in an all-day
PHOTO BY HEATHER SAMUDIO
The Ashe County Farmers Market can be found in downtown West Jefferson on Backstreet, offering local, handmade crafts and homegrown produce. The market is open on Saturdays from April to October and on Wednesdays from July to September. market during the annual Christmas in July Festival. Following the festival, the market begins opening from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays through September.
ACFM vendors feature a variety of items, including flowers and plants, homemade jams and jellies, fresh-baked bread, seasonal produce and more. Special events such as fish expo day, fiber day, grilling demonstrations, salsa and tomato contests and apple pie and cobbler contests are held throughout the season. As it nears its season’s end, the ACFM partners with the On the Same Page Literary Festival in September, hosting authors for readings, discussions and question-and-answer sessions. Holiday markets are also held each year in November and December. This year’s holiday markets are set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 22 and 29 and on Dec. 6. For more information about the market or its vendors, visit www.ashefarmersmarket.com or www. facebook.com/ashecountyfarmersmarket.
Locally Rooted in Family and Dentistry 525 East Main St. Jefferson, NC
BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com
A
she County, and by extension, West Jefferson, has become well-known for its No. 1 cash crop, the Fraser fir Christmas tree. Christmas trees can be seen dotting across the landscape throughout the county, and West Jefferson is no exception. However, Ashe County doesn’t just have a large quantity of Christmas trees, the county has unmatched quality. Since 1982, seven Christmas trees from Ashe County have stood in the White House. With the seven trees, Ashe County has sent more Christmas trees to the White House than any other county in the United States. But you don’t have to be the president to get a Christmas tree in Ashe County. Every year, visitors come to
Ashe County for the annual “10 Days of Choose & Cut.” Visitors and locals alike are welcomed to wander through local Christmas tree farms and experience the family fun of choosing a tree from the field. For more information about choose and cut, visit www.ashecountychristmastrees.com/docs/choosecutbrochure.pdf. The Ashe County Christmas Tree Association is a collection of family farmers in the High Country who specialize in growing the Fraser fir, which the group calls “the Cadillac of Christmas trees.”
According to the Christmas Tree Association, the Fraser fir is highly prized all around the country because of its aroma, shape, dark green color, excellent needle retention and strong branches capable of holding heavy ornaments. Association members also grow a wide variety of other Christmas tree species, along with making and shipping wreaths and garland. For more information on the Ashe County Christmas Tree Association, call the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center, at (336) 846-5850 or email info@ ashechristmastrees.com.
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PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
Locally grown Christmas trees are located in a field overlooking West Jefferson.
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FRIENDLY STAFF
336-846-2323 www.JoelYatesDDS.com