CarolinaMountainLife_Summer2020 by Carolina Mountain Life, Inc

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PRICELESS! SUMMER 2020

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Find Your Joy . . . . ...a wonderful read for 23 years!

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A Private Mountain Community Worth Exploring

Adventure Is Always In Season Here. A four-season, year-round community minutes from Blowing Rock and Boone with a wealth of activities and amenities. Homes from $430k | Homesites from $80k

Contact Team BRMC, the official Blue Ridge Mountain Club Sales Team at 828-352-8235 or visit ExploreBRMC.com Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This information shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required. ÂŠ 2015 Blowing Rock Resort Venture, LLC.

High Country’s Sweet Spot

There are lots of places in the Blue Ridge Mountains to lift your spirits. But few destinations match the spirit of the outdoors like The Village of Sugar Mountain. The four-seasons resort town is central to all that is good in the North Carolina High Country. Home to the south’s pre-eminent winter ski resort, Sugar Mountain glides seamlessly into Spring, Summer and Fall. Regardless the season, visitors and residents take keen delight in an active lifestyle they happily call their own. Sugar Mountain’s golf and tennis offerings are open to everyone, and extend a sense of belonging rarely found in the public domain. The par-64 golf course delivers all the challenge and excitement you expect from a mountain layout and features magnificently maintained putting surfaces that are the talk of the High Country. Weekly ‘friendlies’ for men, women, and couples include everyone who wants to play. Walking is encouraged and every effort is made for boys and girls to experience the game of golf in a nurturing environment. The tennis at Sugar Mountain is second to none. Six HarTru clay courts deliver what every player loves—low impact surfaces which are dutifully groomed morning and night. Our racquet community is close-knit, but always welcoming to newcomers and travelers. Round-Robin events and clinics led by our longtime Davis Cup pro Gene Highfield get everybody involved.

Both tennis and golf offer quality playing fields akin to private clubs at affordable rates sure to appeal to everyone. You’ll love the all-purpose clubhouse, with delicious fare in the Caddie Shack Café with casual indoor and outdoor dining. Peaceful deck seating overlooks the golf course with a stunning 180-degree panoramic view of the Blue Ridge. Wednesday nights feature free live entertainment from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with dancing and an optional dinner buffet under cover, or under the stars. Isn’t it time you discover Sugar Mountain? Once here you’ll find some of America’s most spectacular biking, hiking, fishing and white-water rafting nearby. Don’t miss a weekend ride to the peak of Sugar Mountain on the Summit Express chairlift and the new mountain bike park, or the many iconic attractions such as Grandfather Mountain, Linville Gorge, The Blowing Rock, and Blue Ridge Parkway, just minutes away. It’s right in your backyard when you visit Sugar Mountain. And don’t forget your appetite—the region is home to some of the world’s finest dining and cuisine, in settings from casual to formal. The Village of Sugar Mountain is yours to enjoy, with accommodations of all kinds for every party, large and small. For a day, or a lifetime, isn’t it time you experience The Village of Sugar Mountain? For more information log on to www.seesugar.com.

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Up here, it’s all about the High Country, not the country club

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Cover Photo by William Mauney Adventure Photographer William Mauney captured this image of his dog, Avery, after an overnight camp on Jane Bald on Roan Mountain. “Avery is certainly full of joy retrieving a stick at 6,000 feet,” says Mauney. “With the Linville Gorge in the background this spot has an amazing 360-degree view of the Appalachian Mountains.” Mauney has spent many years photographing the landscapes and activities he loves the most. “Combining my love of photography with skiing and mountain biking is a joy and a privilege,” says Mauney. “I also enjoy whitewater kayaking, and sailing on Watauga Lake.” As an Adventure Photographer, Mauney is happy to call the High Country home. “There’s always something fun and exciting to do during every season.” You can find Mauney’s fine art prints, portraits and real estate photography at www.williammauneyphotography.com.

On the Inside . . . 15.........Coming Together in These Strange Times By Steve York

22.........The Show Must Go On(Line) By Keith Martin

27.........Barter Theatre Introduces New Director By Keith Martin

29.........Doc Watson Day Turns Ten By Mark Freed

30.........Schaffels Pay It Forward by Giving Back By Kevin Christopher

32.........50 Years of Piping & Drumming By Keith Martin

34.........On Sacred Ground in Valle Crucis By Keith Martin

38.........Art is Alive & Well

By Tamara Randolph & Steve York

47.........Keeping Bees Alive & Well By Mary Williams

59.........Summer Sports on the River By Randy Johnson

62.........Hiking Goes Viral By Randy Johnson

72.........Mast General Store Celebrates 40 Years By Keith Martin

85.........High Country Host – Welcoming Visitors for Four Decades By Sarah Mize

87.........Williams YMCA – a Noteworthy Birthday By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

89.........Dr. Bill Tate – His Legacy By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

98.........Avery Humane Society – One Life at a Time By LouAnn Morehouse

101.......Wings of Hope & Healing By Steve York

summer! 103.......Grandfather Vineyard – A Family Affair By Julie Farthing

106.......Farmers’ Markets – Pluck the Day By Julie Farthing

The Big Picture Show with Elizabeth Hardy...45 Notes from Grandfather Mountain...53 Blue Ridge Explorers with Tamara S. Randolph...55 Birding with Curtis Smalling...57 Blue Ridge Parkway Update...65 History on a Stick with Michael C. Hardy...71 Local Tidbits and News...76 Community and Local Business News...78 Health with Koren Gillespie...94 Wine with Joshua Purdy...105 Recipes from the CML Kitchen with Meagan Goheen...118

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

Art Greene ON THE

Master Craft Events

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Banner Elk Winery & Villa Experience Luxury in the High Country’s Original & Most Acclaimed Winery Savor award-winning wine and pamper yourself at The Villa, a luxury B&B. Spend your days exploring the local golfing, fishing, and skiing. Or recharge with a spa treatment and a glass of wine in front of the magnificent stone fireplace. A weekend getaway, corporate retreat, family vacation, engagements, elopements, rehearsal dinners, or special events...it’s the perfect place to relax, re-inspire, and rejuvenate – both inside and out.

A publication of Carolina Mountain Life, Inc. ©2020 by Carolina Mountain Life Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Publisher. Babette McAuliffe, Publisher & Editor in Chief Deborah Mayhall-Bradshaw, Design Director Kathy Griewisch, Account Manager Tamara S. Randolph, Editor Keith Martin, Cultural Arts Editor Contributors: Natalie Brunner, Rebecca Cairns, Kevin Christopher, Jeff Collins, Julie Farthing, Brennan Ford, Morgan Ford, Mark Freed, Koren Gillespie, Connie Gentry, Meagan Goheen, Elizabeth Baird Hardy, Michael C. Hardy, Annie Hoskins, Randy Johnson, Rita Larkin, Tom McAuliffe, Pan McCaslin, Sarah Mize, LouAnn Morehouse, Katherine Newton, Terry Moore Painter, Joshua Purdy, Curtis Smalling, Mike Teague, Mary Williams and Steve York Share us with a friend! CML is published 4 times a year and is available by subscription for $35.00 a year (continental US) Send check or money order to: Carolina Mountain Life, PO Box 976, Linville, NC 28646

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Publisher’s Note These words have been swirling in my head for months now. Items scribbled on envelopes, post-it notes, on my cell phone, in my dreams—simply everywhere. What is important to say during these unprecedented times? What words soothe our hearts, minds, and souls? What message cuts through all the noise? When I am troubled, I go quietly into the woods and soak in the beauty. I see color in all forms, from the tiny orange salamanders, to the white and purple tender wildflowers, to the rich dark soil that provides the base for the season of growth. On the path I see footprints of animals that sought their own refuge the night before. It has become my sanctuary since we were asked to shelter in place. No mask is needed here. Just eyes to see, a nose to smell the freshness, ears open to hear the birds calling out to one another, and a heart open to explore new views. The trail I take each day opens to a majestic mountaintop. Some days it is shrouded with a dense fog, or the rain is pelting down so heavily that I rush to head back home. Then there are days like today, when Grandfather Mountain greets me with her beauty backdropped with clear blue skies. While what I see from day to day may be different, she never changes. Strong and resilient through storms, always there as a sign of hope. I take a deep breath in hopes that the still and quiet beauty will be medicine for the day. I say my peace about the dilemmas facing us, express hope for the future, and then leave in prayer. I am certain that there is power in just that—seeking peace and hope in these troubled times. Our team at CML has been working hard on this issue to provide what we hope will be part of the recovery. A guide for how to enjoy all that is the High Country region—strong, resilient, filled with beauty on the hiking trails, on the river, on the mountaintops, in the songs, in the art and on the stage. So much of our “normal” summer season has been postponed, but there is still plenty to enjoy and explore. This issue can be part of that exploration for you, too. The businesses highlighted within our pages are welcoming you back for a taste of their offerings; the venues that once offered full house arenas with theatre, dance, music, visual arts and crafts are providing virtual experiences to fill your own spaces. We hope to be back enjoying those venues soon, but in the meantime, there is much to taste, see, hear, and experience. My granddaughters and I practiced social distancing from March through May— probably the hardest activity during this crisis. The two-year-old would say, “no hug, no touch, keep distance.” That comment broke my heart—but then I saw her own resilience. She would stand near me and start to dance as her way of hugging and loving me on that visit. She found her way to touch me through her creative dance. I will forever remember that scene and what she taught me. I was never so happy than when my family deemed it safe and necessary to hug physically. One day, when they are a little older, we will reflect on how powerful this time has been. At five and two years of age, they understood that love cannot be shuttered. They get the simple fact that love is always available if we find our own way to express it. My hope and prayer is that each of us remembers what is vital and important through all of this—to listen, to hear, to explore, to draw on our inner wisdom to love one another and see the color and beauty that is everlasting right around us.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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hroughout history, in the face of a common national or global challenge, we human creatures have typically come together in common cause to overcome that challenge. And, often, in the aftermath of overcoming, we have actually emerged on the other side stronger and more determined to envision new horizons of discovery and accomplishments. For example, the “Black Death” (or “Black Plague,” as many know it), devastated Europe and North Africa in the mid-1300s resulting in estimates of 75200 million deaths and wrecking the socio-economic structures of that era. Yet, amazingly, what eventually emerged on the other side was The Renaissance, an explosive period of medical, social, cultural, artistic, economic, architectural, industrial and scientific upward evolution that lasted from the 1400s well into the 1700s. There are many other examples of human resilience through history, including the Great Depression, World War II and 9/11. We look to set yet another example today, in the face of the current COVID-19 pandemic. The predominant message of hope that has emerged in the face of this worldwide threat has, once again, centered on the word, “Together.” ”We’re all in this together.” “We’ll get through this together.”

Coming Together in these Strange Times Respond, Recover, Reopen & Renew By Steve York

Chapter 1: The RESPONSE The new form of togetherness required of late has, in many cases, become more virtual than literal. Virtual workplaces, virtual meetings, virtual education and graduations, virtual celebrations, virtual entertainment, virtual shopping and virtual relationships of all kinds became more than a playful technological convenience… they became, at least temporarily, a daily necessity. New and sometimes more efficient and profitable ways of doing business, expanding marketing, providing healthcare and extending cultures have emerged. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Beyond the basic dissemination of State health and safety guidelines, High Country Chambers of Commerce and affiliated associations have provided special mentoring and counseling services to help their members and communities navigate these challenging times. They’ve offered webinars and strategies on such topics as: how to optimize web and social media marketing; how to re-imagine business models; how

Photo by James Reed of Sheila Reed Photography

to manage cash flow; how to successfully manage phased re-openings; and how to coordinate with non-profit community organizations to combat COVID-19 related hunger, poverty and many other problems of the day. In addition, the High Country United Way launched the High Country COVID-19 Relief Fund to supply emergency funds to 26 different local non-profit agencies in this area. The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and the Williams Avery YMCA respectively have sponsored virtual races and athletic activity competitions as fundraisers for specified non-profit community organizations. Participants signed up, paid

a donation fee and posted photos and videos on social media of their athletic performances. Boone’s Keep Boone Healthy - Virtual Walk/Run/Just Move event in April raised $7,498.50, which was allocated to nine non-profits. The Avery Moves 100 event in May followed a similar format to benefit the Avery Senior Center, Cannon Memorial Hospital, Avery County Schools, Feeding Avery Families and the Williams YMCA of Avery. Beyond the several thousand dollars raised at the time, people are encouraged to continue donations in support of the ongoing need for these vital community services. continued CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

IN THIS T GETHER

RELIEF FUND

COVID19

Regional Happenings & Featured Events At Blue Ridge Energy, we understand … keeping up with your bills may be tough during this time of COVID-19. In response, we launched the In This Together Relief Fund to help members and customers with their bills for electric and propane and fuels. If you need help paying your electric or propane and fuels bill, apply for In This Together funds through the local helping agencies found at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Assistance. If you’re able to help, please consider donating to the fund. Every penny goes directly to help neighbors in need. Call or go to BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Together. For more ways we’re helping, visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/COVID19.

#InThisTogether

16 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

The Village Foundation of Blowing Rock’s Rock United Relief Fund exceeded $120,000 in donations as of May to help support struggling local businesses. Their grant review committee continues to consider and approve grant requests and provide those funds to qualified businesses. Ashe County Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Support Grant Program Regional Happenings has been managing a similar effort to supply individual $3,000 grants to Ashe County small businesses that employ between one and ten people. The Chamber facilitates online donations via their official website and reports that response has been very encouraging. Meanwhile, in response to an urgent need for ambulances by the New York City Fire Department, Ashe County’s American Emergency Vehicles manufacturer delivered dozens to the hard-hit city. Feeding Avery Families and Reaching Avery Ministries in Newland received substantial grants from the A.M.Y. (Avery Mitchell Yancey) Wellness Foundation to continue their missions of providing food and assistance to families in need. And next door in Crossnore, a grant from the Winston-Salem Foundation enabled Crossnore School to increase network bandwidth on their WinstonSalem campus to support tele-health services for children and families in need of virtual therapy services. Additionally, the faculty of Crossnore’s Center for Trauma Resilient Communities has offered free webinars to help people navigate through these challenging times. On top of that, the Crossnore Weaving Room transitioned operations in a major Mask Production Project for their Avery campus. Mayland Community College’s Advanced Manufacturing teams down at their Yancey campus and Mitchell High School got busy early on creating personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers in their area. Instructors, students and volunteers were producing face shields and reusable masks to be distributed through Emergency Management Operations Directors to Avery, Mitchell and Yancey counties. Hospitality House in Boone, who traditionally would sell their hot dogs, chips and Moon Pies at MerleFest each year to raise money for their charity, instead had a virtual online hot dog sale due to the

event’s cancellation. In turn, everyone who donated online became eligible to bring their donation receipt to MerleFest 2021 and receive a free bag of chips. OASIS, Inc., an organization that specializes in domestic and sexual abuse cases across the High Country, has been dealing with a disturbing increase in these types of abuse since the advent of COVID-19. &Forced Featured Events in-home quarantining has exacerbated already existing domestic tensions. To combat this dilemma, OASIS has had to develop special code words and methods to help victims alert authorities and escape dangerous environments. RETAIL BUSINESSES Moltox (Molecular Technology, Inc.) in Boone partnered with Bistro Roca and Antlers Bar in Blowing Rock to donate food for feeding the hardworking late night staffs at Appalachian Regional Health Care’s Watauga Medical Center. They were joined by Lost Province Brewery in Boone who was also delivering pizzas to the hospital. Stick Boy and Booneshine partnered with Blowing Rock Cares, Carebox/Ransom and Hospitality House to donate 220 loaves of bread to the community. Over in the Village of Banner Elk, Sorrento’s has been donating food to Habitat for Humanity and Newland’s Carolina Barbeque has been offering donations to Feeding Avery Families. Mast General Store, home-based in Boone, featured a ‘Gift Cards for Good’ program, in which 20 percent of the total purchase amount was donated back to their seven different food bank partners throughout their seven store locations. As of June, they shifted to offering their customers the opportunity to round up the balance of their total purchase to the next dollar and donate that amount to those same food bank partners. Boone’s Autobell Car Wash has been offering a free hospital-grade, EPA-code disinfectant process to their standard vehicle cleaning. It’s free to all essential workers with the purchase of an interior cleaning. And it’s free to first responders and official government workers, no purchase required. SERVICE BUSINESSES Many public utility companies, like Blue Ridge Energy, and Mountain Electric Cooperative have come to the

aid of customers by offering to suspend disconnections and late fees temporarily for those unable to pay their bills on time. Those customers may qualify for delayed payment plans and/or may also be directed to financial assistance services. At the same time, customers not strapped by current economic strife are encouraged to donate some or all of their earned capital reserve credits back to the company in support of those who can’t keep payments current. Meanwhile, HVAC businesses, like Avery Heating and Air of Linville, are offering their customers whole home in-duct air purifiers that help kill viruses, bacteria, odors and other pollutants, both in the air and on surfaces.

Chapter 2: The RECOVERY In addition to physical health issues, the hardships of lost work and income, disruption of routines, missed family celebrations, canceled social gatherings and mounting quarantine anxieties have contributed to increased mental, emotional and relationship issues. So healthcare, spiritual care, and community care services have become even more vital these days. HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS Appalachian Regional Healthcare System has been on high alert preparedness since the outbreak. Testing services are available at designated locations and patient visitation safety restrictions have been uniformly implemented. As with most healthcare providers and clinics, and excepting for essential one-on-one surgeries and medical care, the Appalachian Regional Healthcare System has been encouraging the use of CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

The Perfect Weather for a Great Adventure—Guaranteed!

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www.linvillecaverns.com 800-419-0540

18 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

“telehealth” conferencing between patients and their healthcare providers when possible. In many cases—and despite the possible delay in scheduling a telehealth consultation—people are reporting that this approach can be just as productive and even more efficient.

“Weeping may last for the night, but Joy comes in the morning.” —From a handmade sign in the window of the Horton Hotel, Boone NC

MENTAL, EMOTIONAL & SPIRITUAL HEALTH Dr. Denise Lovin, a psychology professional in Boone, is helping people deal with increased stress, anxiety and fear caused by COVID-19 challenges. Those challenges can also further exacerbate conditions for patients already prone to anxiety, including hypochondria, eating disorders and other pre-existing mental health issues. In private practice now after 22 years with the Appalachian State University Counseling Center, Dr. Lovin is also applying the positive messages of hope and optimism—which are fundamental to psychology—to the décor, amenities and operations of the Horton Hotel in downtown Boone, which she and husband, Fulton, purchased, remodeled and opened last year. Despite its temporary closing during early COVID-19 guidelines, the Horton Hotel has begun its recovery and has reopened operations. Reverend Ted Henry, pastor of the Banner Elk United Methodist Church and Chaplain in Extension Ministries at Lees-McRae College, is one of many ministers who have been working with people from a spiritual perspective. Although many of his worship services, Bible study classes, and counseling services have had to be held via Zoom and phone, Pastor Ted reports seeing a refocus, a reconnecting, a return to faith and an increase in church attendance, albeit virtual. And, while many are anticipating that life will eventually go back to “normal,” he offers a slightly different paradigm: “I would suggest it would be

more accurate to say we are living in a time of transition…between what was and what will be, instead of a new normal—an opportunity to re-evaluate, look deeply into everything we’ve been about, recognize our weaknesses and make positive changes.” Along with more traditional approaches to personal well-being, holistic healing has gained in popularity. Online Yoga, meditation, at-home exercise and self-help classes have extended the reach and connectivity between practitioners and their students. And let’s not forget the value of humor and laughter as an essential tool for our total wellbeing. Among all creatures, humans have the unique capacity for seeking and finding the humorous ironies often embedded within some of the darkest tragedies. All across social media we continue to see hilarious posts based on lifestyle changes instigated by quarantines and social distancing.

Chapter 3: The REOPENING Despite temporary closings or limited operations, most businesses, institutions and attractions have found creative ways to reimagine their operations, renew their spirit of enterprise and restore service to their customers and communities. HOSPITALITY & LODGING Along with area attractions and restaurants, lodging of all kinds has taken some of the biggest hits. However, short-term rental restrictions were partially lifted in May. And, in most cases throughout surrounding High Country counties, campgrounds and RV Parks have been allowed to fully reopen. RESTAURANTS As became the norm, most cafes and restaurants across the High Country had substituted carry-out and/or curbside service for indoor dining during Phase 1 restrictions. To keep the “dining out” experience alive and to show appreciation for the continued patronage, these creative— though struggling—entrepreneurs typically spiced up their carry-out orders with new menu items, extra treats, discount coupons and other enticements. Now open under the State’s latest guidelines, restaurants, cafes and even some grocery store delis are allowed at least 50 percent seating capacity with safe distancing and strict health regulations in place.

REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION Many in the construction and real estate trades seem to have fared better than others. Although not as robust as in previous years, new home construction and remodeling operations have, for the most part, stayed busy. The same goes for landscaping and yard maintenance services. And their relative productivity bodes well for most other parts of our local economies down the road, as those homeowners create demand for new goods and services, like interior design, furnishings and basic home products. PARKS & ATTRACTIONS Public access to State Parks as well as scenic and cultural attractions varies depending on the type of operation, parking limits and visitor capacity restrictions. But many parks and attractions, like Linville Caverns, Linville Falls, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area in Ashe County and nearby Roan Mountain State Park in Tennessee, have at least partially, if not fully, reopened. The Blue Ridge Parkway is now open for vehicle traffic, scenic overlooks and Parkway trail hiking, although people are advised to keep safe distances and limit group gathering size. The same exceptions noted for State Parks also apply to the Parkway’s courtesy and visitor facilities, as well as water and boating attractions like Price Lake near the Blowing Rock exit. Visit https://www.nps.gov/blri for updated COVID-19 notices. The Blowing Rock in the picturesque town of the same name is famous for being North Carolina’s oldest travel attraction. Like many other attractions in the area, it is now open seven days a week under limited capacity and with safety guidelines in place, and has resumed its traditional Blowing Rock trail and vista tours. During the shutdown, The Blowing Rock offered special “Stay At Home” care packages to customers wishing to enjoy a virtual taste of the experience while the venue was closed. Apple Hill Farm and Gift Shop, located, appropriately, on Apple Hill Road just outside of Banner Elk, offers an inspiring actual or virtual getaway from the dulling drone of the COVID-19 blues. Whether in person or online, you can come face-toface with real, live alpacas, llamas, angora CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

goats, donkeys, dogs and even a mini-pig. Along with in-person visits, owner Lee Rankin and her staff have been offering virtual tours and ZOOM visitations with the alpacas and friends. Even professional psychologists have employed these virtual Alpaca Zoom visits as part of their COVID-19-related patient therapy. The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation kept its connection with park fans via their web and Facebook “Nature Minutes” video series. Beautiful panoramic vistas of Grandfather Mountain along with narrated virtual presentations by park staff helped “bring the mountain to you,” as Stewardship Foundation President and Executive Director, Jesse Pope noted. The mountain has reopened with limited capacity, health and safety measures in place, and online ticket purchase requirements.

The famous frescoes at historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs. Painted in the 1970’s by Benjamin Franklin Long, IV, they depict “Mary Great With Child”, “John The Baptist”, “Mystery of Faith” and “The Last Supper”. / Photo by Martin Seelig

Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster in Banner Elk across from Sugar Mountain is a brand new attraction and the first of its kind in this part of the state. It features a 2,390-foot, bobsled-type downhill run through forests, and around boulders, banked turns and three 360-degree loops traveling at speeds up to 27 miles per hour. Braking of the two-person sled is controlled by the riders. Following a COVID-19 delayed opening, Wilderness Run now plans to operate seven days a week, year-round, including during ski season. High Country AVA Wineries, like Grandfather Mountain Vineyards, Banner Elk Winery & Villa, Linville Falls Winery and Watauga Lake Winery have reopened. Those that offer food, entertainment and special events will be doing so in compliance with State regulations. As some of our newest destination attractions, these AVA rated wineries draw enthusiastic wine lovers from all over the southeast. The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce and the Ashe County Arts Council note that, even if certain art exhibits and festivals have been either canceled or are uncertain, there’s still a lot to see. A leisurely stroll up and down the streets in West Jefferson offers a spectacular view of murals adorning the sides of downtown buildings. These murals portray the vivid history, musical heritage, colorful landscape, and diverse culture of the region. And,

20 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

EJ & Frances

while there, don’t miss the famous frescoes, painted by Benjamin Franklin Long, at the historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson and the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs. EDUCATION Home schooling or remote classes have been the norm for most levels of education since mandatory shutdowns. Virtual or delayed commencement ceremonies were the common option for High School and College spring 2020 graduates. While maintaining careful distancing and tracking guidelines, as well as making exceptions for older, more vulnerable teaching staff, Lees-McRae College, Appalachian State University, and the entire UNC system are expecting to resume classes starting in August (with revisions to the standard school calendars). Caldwell Community College posted their reopening in late May, while Mayland Community College is holding normal Summer classes.

Chapter 4: The RENEWAL One of the most “together” things we love to do is attend large outdoor festivals, concerts, and sporting events. Our souls must take time to celebrate, renew and rejoice in the spirit of life. While many inperson public celebrations have been postponed or cancelled this year, some are still on, while others have come up with alternative ways to keep that spirit of renewal and rejoicing alive.

Kirk McLeod

CELEBRATIONS & MUSIC The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games scheduled for July 9-12 have been cancelled until 2021. In announcing the Games cancellation, GMHG, Inc. President Steve Quillin noted special considerations for all camping, patron packages, clan tent sponsorship, and general admission tickets, as well as the honoring of essential upfront committed expenses and considerations for music performers. However, plans were made to offer a “Virtual Entertainment, Clan and Vendor Presentation” on that weekend to celebrate the Spirit of the Games online. Music Director E.J. Jones and band leaders like Kirk McLeod of Seven Nations noted their enthusiasm for a streamed celebration as a way to carry on the 65-year tradition and express their sincere appreciation to GMHG organizers for the opportunity to perform for their fans over the years. The Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk, scheduled for the weekend of October 17-18, is at the time of publication still on. In its 43rd year, the event features the famous Woolly Worm races along with entertainment, food and a variety of vendors. The Valle Country Fair in Valle Crucis is scheduled for that same Saturday, October 17. Of course, the public is always advised to keep posted of any possible changes in scheduled events. Normally our Summer issue would be overflowing with music events. And, even though many larger public events have been cancelled this season, the music

has not died. Many amazingly talented musicians—both amateurs and recording stars—from around here and all over the world have been posting songs and virtual concerts online, some as fundraisers for major causes, some as fundraisers for their own bands, and some just for fun. Fortunately, the partial re-openings of many establishments have allowed area musicians to take stage and give us live music once again here in the High Country. Although safe distancing and limited attendance guidelines will prevent larger crowds from packing close together, the music is back. We, the things we cherish and our irrepressible spirit of adventure will prevail through COVID-19. In time, we will see the dining-out experience revived and prosperous again. We will see mom-andpop stores, novelty shops, service centers, large retailers, utility providers and civic organizations fully open and active again. After all, they not only help supply the goods and services we demand, they also employ our families, our neighbors and our community workers. And in time, we will be able to gather, en masse, to enjoy the endless entertainment, inspiration, creativity and rich adventure of life here in these marvelous mountains. From all of us at CML, here’s to complete healing and a new beginning … together!

Sound Traveler

NOTE:

Due to the uncertainties regarding COVID-19 throughout this summer and fall, CML advises everyone to check with local and state authorities—as well as individual destination websites—when planning seasonal activities, shopping and social gatherings. Visit CMLmagazine.online for links to COVID-19 information in our area. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

The Show Must Go On(line)

Regional Companies Deal with Unemployment, Pandemic Safety, and Creating Socially Distanced Art Forms By Keith Martin

ust as our spring issue was going to print in mid-March, my cellphone blew up with news of public closures, stay-at-home orders, and mandatory quarantines. I was literally walking through Times Square on the way to a Broadway show on Thursday, March 12 when the scrolling electronic headlines announced the news that all NYC theatres were closing for at least a month. All 53 events that were listed in our spring cultural calendar and summer arts preview—the largest number of shows we’ve ever featured—have now been cancelled, postponed, or rescheduled. Since then, the local, state, and recent national statistics have been sobering for an entertainment industry that accounts for $877 billion per year, or 4.5 percent of our nation’s annual GDP. 40 million Americans (one in four workers) have filed for unemployment since mid- March, with the leisure and hospitality industry hurt far more than any other sector of our economy with a nearly 50 percent unemployment rate. In February, nearly 17 million Americans worked in that super sector, which comprises the arts, entertainment, and recreation industries, but by the end of April that number had fallen to just 8.7 million.

22 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

The Broadway League projects that live performances may not resume on “the Great White Way” until sometime in 2021. Guthrie Theatre Artistic Director Joseph Haj reminds us, “The very premise of theatre is gathering people together in a shared space to enjoy a shared experience,” but in North Carolina and bordering states, the return to live theatre is only permitted in the last phase of reopening plans. Still, arts advocate Howard Sherman says, “Theatre people are proving to be the silver lining in a very dark cloud.” Here in the High Country and throughout our region, our beloved local companies and performers are stepping up and finding ways to keep connecting with audiences, as new work emerges and adapts during the COVID-19 crisis. And it didn’t take long. In the Department of Theatre and Dance at Appalachian State University, the cast of “Spring Awakening” said upon hearing of its cancellation, “We were dramatically devastated when we first heard the news, and many of us couldn’t wrap our heads around it… (but) decided not to let this experience go to waste.” They put together a video of themselves singing “The Song of Purple Summer” that was posted on social media in early April,

was subsequently picked up nationally by the online site Broadway World, and quickly went viral. Since then, hundreds of students and casts have done the same, but this was one of the first. Appalachian alumnus and Tony-nominated lighting designer Annie Wiegand saw the video and sent a message to the Class of 2020 reminding them that, “After a plague comes a Renaissance!” At the American Shakespeare Center (ASC) in Staunton, Virginia (profiled in our Winter 2015 issue), Artistic Director Ethan McSweeny observed early on that live theatre was in trouble by looking at their national touring company. “All our bookings at universities and clubs started canceling,” he said in an interview with the Theatre Development Fund. But, instead of panicking, he began planning. Figuring it was just a matter of time before ASC’s 300-seat Blackfriars Playhouse in the Shenandoah Valley would be forced to shutter, he decided to film all current or in-rehearsal productions. While other regional theatres got one, maybe two shows in the can before the pandemic hit, ASC shot seven, which have been streamed online in a pay-per-view format. The Washington Post reported that it was the most fresh and largest amount

of new content being provided by any theatre in the country. McSweeney said, “It definitely isn’t replacing our business, but it’s turned out to be an absolutely vital point of connection.” Barter Theatre’s Katy Brown, in her first few months as Producing Artistic Director, has made similar strides with their “Inside Barter Series” of virtual conversations with beloved company members talking about Barter productions past, present, and future. Their Barter Players’ productions of “Aesop’s Fables” and “Peter Pan” have been available online and, most notably, Barter Theatre brought a free presentation of a Shakespearean play to the homes of almost 3,000 students during the coronavirus shutdown. For this project, Brown drew on the tenacity and ingenuity of the Barter’s founders and developed a solution: “Macbeth: From Our Homes to Yours.” Director Carrie Smith Lewis worked tirelessly with Barter’s resident videographer Garrett Houston to adapt the production so it could be recorded from the actors’ homes. They produced it in a way that not only told the story, but also created a mystical world far beyond that of a video conference. While Barter, the State Theatre of

Virginia, waits to resume their delayed 2020 season, Brown is investigating the safest options imaginable to restore the impact of live performance for their patrons, such as producing theatre for young audiences in at outdoor venue. Details will soon be announced via their website. Meanwhile, there is some good news to report. “The Stage,” a weekly arts publication out of London, wrote that “online theatre audiences are booming during the lockdown,” with “one in five of those accessing digital arts content doing so for the first time.” No company has taken this hopeful trend to heart better than An Appalachian Summer Festival in Boone, who replaced their entire 36th Season with an online-only programming schedule of 31 livestreamed and specially recorded music, dance, theatre, film, and visual arts events from July 1-31, 2020. All events are free and can be accessed by a variety of channels: appsummer.org, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Details of each event and distribution format are available at appsummer.org. Film screenings require pre-registration, as online audience size is restricted. Full descriptions about each event and how to access them are available at www.appsummer.org.

“During this challenging time for arts presenting, we’ve been amazed by the resilience and innovative spirit of artists who are committed to finding new avenues for sharing their work,” notes Denise Ringler, Director of Arts Engagement & Cultural Resources at Appalachian State University. “We’re excited about the opportunity to connect these artists with the festival audience, while inviting thousands of online arts lovers to learn about App Summer and the Turchin Center, and to become engaged in our programs this summer, and in future seasons.” On Saturday, June 20, the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (ATHC) will produce “Re-Energize Watauga: LIVE from the Appalachian Theatre!” This virtual event involves performances by prominent regional artists on the Doc Watson Stage for Americana Music to benefit the Re-Energize Watauga Fund. This fund exists to provide a rapid source of financial assistance for our Watauga County-based businesses that have been negatively affected by COVID-19. The low interest loans can provide small businesses with capital to meet the most pressing needs and successfully navigate around the pandemic. The event will be live-streamed CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

*Barter Theatre www.BarterTheatre.com *Beanstalk Community Theatre BeanStalkNC.com Blue Ridge Community Theatre www.blueridgecommunitytheatrenc.com City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium www.commaonline.org

from the Appalachian Theatre via local access cable, a dedicated YouTube channel, Facebook Live, etc. ATHC will soon announce events taking place as part of the Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers, a curated series of new documentary and narrative films that will tour to 24 screening partner venues spanning eight states, including the Appalachian Theatre. This program connects documentary filmmakers and their impactful work with audiences throughout the South and each screening includes an opportunity for the theatregoers to participate in a Q&A with the filmmaker to share their process and engage with the audience. “As filmmakers, we want our films to reach as broad and diverse an audience as possible,” said Pam Tom, director of the film “Tyrus.” “The Southern Circuit Tour makes that happen.” Beanstalk Community Theatre has launched a Facebook series titled, “Quarantine in Oz, Y’all,” a five episode story they are sharing with their fans since their summer musical was rescheduled for 2021. They also have a “Pass the... Video” event in the works before live streaming a table reading of a new soap opera written by Shane Lee Miller. While postponing their season to 2021, Trimella Chaney of the Blue Ridge Community Theatre reports that they have launched a new feature on their Facebook page featuring memories from former productions including interviews from the original participants. Ensemble Stage in Banner Elk has set up a YouTube account and is posting some clips from their video archives along with episodes from their popular

staged radio plays, sprinkled in with fun tidbits and trivia about the shows, scripts, and authors. Their radio version of “A Christmas Carol” is now online and broken into five to eleven minute episodes. Founding Artistic Director Gary Smith says they are still holding out hope to get at least part of their summer mainstage season into production, and are still planning on a summer theatre camp for kids and some type of performances that follow the current social distancing guidelines for both performers and the audience. In/Visible Theatre intends to produce its annual Boone Solo Festival (BOLO Fest) late this summer, with a provision for going online if need be, according to founders Derek Davidson and Karen Sabo. In lieu of our usual cultural calendar, the following is a listing of organizations whose artistry we cover in the pages of CML. The asterisk indicates those groups who are still planning to program cultural offerings this summer; please check them out online at the following websites:

*Ensemble Stage www.ensemblestage.com Hayes School of Music, Appalachian State University www.music.appstate.edu Horn In The West www.HornInTheWest.com *In/Visible Theatre www.invisibletheatrenc.org. *Jones House Cultural & Community Center www.joneshouse.org Lees-McRae College Performing Arts lmc.edu/pashows Lees-McRae Summer Theatre www.lmc.edu/summertheatre *Music in the Valle Valle Crucis Community Park www.vallecrucispark.org Parkway Playhouse www.parkwayplayhouse.com Schaefer Center Presents www.theschaefercenter.org St. John’s Summer Concert Series www.holycossvallecrucis.net

Alleghany Community Theatre www.alleghanycommunitytheatre.org

*Tweetsie Railroad www.Tweetsie.com

*An Appalachian Summer Festival www.appsummer.org

Wilkes Playmakers www.wilkesplaymakers.com

Appalachian State University Department of Theatre and Dance www.theatreanddance.appstate.edu *Appalachian Theatre of the High Country www.apptheatre.org Ashe Civic Center www.ashecivic.com Ashe County Little Theatre www.ashecountylittletheatre.org

Postscript: We leave you with these words of wisdom from my colleague Molly Smith, artistic director of Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., as a hopeful mantra: “It’s a time of introspection. Theater is an important weapon against hate, misconceptions, and prejudice; it is also a tool for understanding, compassion, and thoughtfulness.” Amen.

24 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

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CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS

AN APPALACHIAN SUMMER FESTIVAL

An Appa Summer lachian Festival @artsatap palachian An Appa Summer lachian Festival

J U LY 1 - 31, 2 0 2 0 | F R E E O N L I N E E V E N T S | A P P S U M M E R . O RG M U S I C

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T H E A T R E

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INSTAGRAM

Registration required

TO REGISTER FOR EVENTS AND TO ACCESS ALL PROGRAMMING, VISIT:

@artsatappalachian

WEICHOLZ GLOBAL FILM SERIES

Registration not required

A WALK WITH THE CURATOR

WELCOME TO APPSUMMER 2020!

YOUTUBE An Appalachian Summer Festival

TESLA QUARTET 2:00pm

BEHIND THE SCENES at the Schaefer Center 2:00pm

THE CHARMER 7:00pm

A R T S

EXHIBITION SHOWCASE SERIES

www.appsummer.org

V I S U A L

CANADIAN BRASS 2:00pm

PIANIST WITH THE HAIR: LIVE FROM PARIS 2:00pm

BEHIND THE SCENES at the Turchin Center 2:00pm

“A MUSICAL SALON ON A SUMMER’S EVENING:” ERIC KOONTZ, JUNIE CHO, SOO GOH & JAMES DOUTHIT

Tour of the newly opened exhibitions at the Turchin Center 2:00pm

7:00pm

PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE 7:00pm

#TCVAatHome: Student Artist Feature, Brooke Drury 2:00pm

7:00pm

BEHIND THE SCENES

2:00pm

#TCVAatHome: Student Artist Feature, Hannah Hagler 2:00pm

7:00pm

BEHIND THE SCENES

HONEYLAND

7:00pm

greensboro.com

MY LIFE IN THEATRE

PARSONS DANCE: ‘CAUGHT’ AT HOME WITH DAVID PARSONS 7:00pm

INTRODUCING SARAH JONES AND FRIENDS* (WHO LIVE IN HER HEAD)

NATIONAL PLAYERS presents ROSEN SCULPTURE WALK

AFTERIMAGE ANXIETY

7:00pm

Visual Arts Exhibition Showcase:

7:00pm

APPALACHIAN STATE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: RITE OF SPRING

AS YOU LIKE IT

Virtual Tour 10:00am

7:00pm

Dr. Melisse Brunet 7:00pm

RAIN AND THE RIVER Jacklyn St. Aubyn 2:00pm

greensboro.com

7:00pm

Joshua Rose 2:00pm

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

Featuring a pre-concert conversation with conductor Gerard Schwarz 7:00pm

Featuring NC Black Repertory Company Artistic Director Jackie Alexander 7:00pm

MATRILINEAR

THE NEW WORLD AND ITS MUSIC

KRAUT CREEK RAMBLERS & LIAM PURCELL AND CANE MILL ROAD

Visual Arts Exhibition Showcase:

All-Star Orchestra

Elizabeth M. Claffey 2:00pm

CORPUS CHRISTI

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“WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW:” TODD WRIGHT & FRIENDS

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26 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SHANA TUCKER: AN EVENING OF CHAMBERSOUL

7:00pm

Visual Arts Exhibition Showcase:

CENTER STAGE

“SONGS FOR SUMMER:” JAMES STOKES, JUNIE CHO, JAMES DOUTHIT, GENNARD LOMBARDOZZI

Visual Arts Exhibition Showcase and Art Talk:

UNEQUAL SCENES

F I L M

Exhibition Showcase:

Johnny Miller 2:00pm

LIVE FROM ROSEN CONCERT HALL

Katy Brown Takes the Helm at the Barter Theatre By Keith Martin

or only the fourth time in its venerable 87-year history, the Barter Theatre has a new Producing Artistic Director. The dynamic Katy Brown recently succeeded Richard Rose upon his retirement, thus becoming the first woman to lead the legendary “State Theatre of Virginia.” Hardly a newcomer, Brown arrived in Abingdon as an actor in 1998, became artistic director of the Barter Players in 2000, and has served as Associate Artistic Director and Head of Casting since 2006. Rose said of his successor, “Katy Brown is a spectacularly capable professional who, after many years here herself, shares a deep passion for Barter, its mission, and the people we serve. I have no doubt Katy will lead Barter with distinction and grace into a bright and incredible future.” Brown responded to Rose’s comments by thanking him, and said, “Barter is made up of an amazing group of artists and dedicated professionals, and I could not be more excited to collaborate with them, and the people of this region, in building a strong and sustainable future.” Since the average tenure of her predecessors is approximately 30 years, we can expect Brown to lead the professional theatre company for decades to come, following in the footsteps of visionary founder Robert Porterfield (1933-71), Rex Partington (1972-92) and Rose (19922019). Brown has directed more than one hundred professional productions and, as Director of the Young Playwrights Festival since its creation in 2002, led the creation of 3,858 plays by young people in the TriState region. In 2014, Brown founded the Encore Players, a Theatre for Young Audiences made up of Barter Player alum who tour nationally and internationally. She has also been responsible for the annual return of Shakespeare to Barter via the National Endowment for the Arts

Shakespeare in American Communities Grant. She has been named to the TriCities 40 under 40 list, received the YWCA Tribute to Exceptional Women honor, and cited as The Business Journal’s 25 Women of Influence. In an exclusive interview with CML, Brown talked about the smooth transition from her predecessor, her first season as Producing Artistic Director, upcoming productions, her vision for the theatre, and the effects of COVID-19 on the Barter, among other topics. The following has been edited only for clarity. CML: Did you pick the 2020 season and, if so, what are you most excited about? Brown: Richard Rose and I chose the 2020 season together. What excites me most about it is how it feels like a true Barter homecoming. Whether it’s the themes of the shows (Dorothy famously realizing there’s no place like home, or unlikely friends finding home in one another), the familiar stories given new twists (“Frankenstein” and “Christmas Carol” will be world premier adaptations), or some of Barter’s favorite artists coming back ( Jasper McGruder, John Hardy, and Eugene Wolf ), we feel this season reflects home at its best. We want everyone to come home to Barter this season. CML: As a director, what productions are you keeping for yourself? Brown: “The 39 Steps.” It’s one of my favorite shows to direct, and I’m thrilled to take it out for another spin this fall. CML: How is your artistic vision different from that of your predecessor, Rick Rose?

Brown: I think that the time in the institution’s growth cycle is different more than anything else. I think of Barter as a beautiful tree: over the last two decades it grew tall, and it added multiple branches. We are finding that now is the time to grow roots and relationships and to focus on stability of the tree in partnership with those around us. CML: Prior to becoming Producing Artistic Director, you wore many hats at the Barter. How many people did it take to replace you and have you fully assembled your team? Brown: Barrett Guyton has taken over as the Artistic Director of the Barter Players and Casting Coordinator, and my other jobs are slowly finding homes around the company. I’m very lucky that much of the team from the past is still here. Amazing people work here at Barter. CML: The many leadership challenges you’ve had to face in your first months on the job are unprecedented, and the Barter has responded brilliantly. Katy, how did you accomplish such a feat? Brown: Theatre people are some of the most resourceful humans on earth, and we are using the same imagination that helps us solve problems on stage, to pivot quickly and creatively during COVID. Every day is a brand new obstacle course; you just get up and do your very best. CML: Anything else you want our readers to know? Brown: We can’t wait to see you at the theatre this year! bartertheatre.com / Box Office: 276-628-3991.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

theatre! Beanstalk Community Theatre and the WHS Pioneer Playmakers Shine on a National Stage, Winning Numerous Honors By Keith Martin

“North Carolina should be very proud,” said Professor Dylan Bollinger from Kansas City, Missouri, one of three adjudicators responding to the Watauga High School production of Oliver Lansley’s “Ernest and the Pale Moon,” which performed to a standing room only audience during the Secondary School Theatre Festival at the 71st Annual Convention of the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) that concluded on March 1 in Louisville, Kentucky. Although nobody in attendance knew it at the time, this would be the last show this group of students would ever perform together. The COVID-19 pandemic would cause the cancellation of every production for the remainder of the academic year and the troupe would lose eight senior class members to graduation. Pioneer Playmakers Elise Bednar and Zeb Scott received SETC Best Supporting Performance and SETC All Star Cast recognition, respectively, for the roles of Gwendoline and Ernest. As reported in the winter issue of CML, this continued a streak that began last November at the North Carolina Theatre Conference (NCTC) in Greensboro when Bednar and Scott were named Best Actress and Best Actor. Their classmate Jayce McClure was honored with Best Sound Design at the SETC Festival, and the adjudicators created a special recognition with the Judges Choice Award for “Masterful and Most Creative Use of Elastic Bands,” a central design element in WHS director Zach Walker’s production. Bollinger’s remark about NC being proud became even more appropriate when Boone-based Beanstalk Community Theatre received a coveted award at SETC’s Community Theatre Festival. They made the journey to Louisville and represented the state of North Carolina with their performance of “The 25th Annual

28 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a musical by Rachel Sheinkin and William Finn. Beanstalk received the “2020 Spirit of the Festival” award, given by the adjudicators to the company that best exemplifies the collaborative and supportive spirit inherent in avocational theatre. It’s believed to be the first time that a high school and a community theatre from the same town represented the same state at SETC. With a current population of 19,562 residents, Boone is certainly the smallest town ever to send two different theatre companies to this national competition, a testament to the high caliber of theatre on every level here in the High Country. All three governing bodies in the local region issued identical proclamations declaring the week of February 23 through 29, 2020 “Pioneer Playmaker Week” throughout Boone and Watauga County. The resolutions were presented at WHS’s encore performance on February 21 at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country. The proceeds from that gala put WHS over the top of their $20,000 fundraising goal to offset trip-related expenses. The resolution read, in part, as follows: Whereas, the 23-member Pioneer Playmaker Ensemble has worked tirelessly since August 2019 to create their own unique interpretation of Oliver Lansley’s “Ernest and the Pale Moon,” showcasing their artistry, craftsmanship, and creativity; Whereas, we desire to express our gratitude to the Pioneer Playmakers for bringing these prestigious honors to our community, while celebrating the talents of the students, and recognizing the tremendous leadership of their faculty, Now therefore, be it resolved that the Boone Town Council, Watauga County Board of Commissioners, and the Watauga County Board of Education recognize the Pioneer Playmakers Ensemble as a

superior example of artistic excellence, and herein declare the week of February 23 through 29 as “Pioneer Playmakers Week” throughout Boone and Watauga County. While the WHS entourage numbered 75 people, only a dozen Beanstalk cast and crew members traveled to Louisville for what would prove to be the final performance of the pandemic-shortened season. Executive Director Andrea McDonough said, “Absolutely everyone against whom we were competing were from places much larger than Boone,” noting that they held their own and won the hearts of the audience and adjudicators. “We were humbled and excited to be recognized. This award is given to the theatre that most embodies what the festival is about while supporting and encouraging all other theatres. It was better than any outcome we expected!” McDonough was quick to connect the dots between the two theatres and their respective festivals. “This reaffirms the fact that theatre is a vital, ongoing part of this community and I’m so very proud that two of the WHS award recipients—Zeb and Elise—are former ‘Beanstalkers’ along with a handful of other Pioneer Playmakers. We at Beanstalk like to plant a love of theatre in every child, and it is reaffirming that they are nurtured and grow on other stages here in the High Country… and beyond.” Beanstalk’s Creative Director Amy Wilson Beane and McDonough are already planning to participate in next year’s festival, sponsored by the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT), and mentioned the possibility of organizing a statewide festival for avocational theatres all across North Carolina. Bravo to both Watauga High School and Beanstalk Community Theatre; you make all of us here in the High Country very proud.

A Decade of Doc Watson Day By Mark Freed

oc Watson preferred to be known as “just one of the people,” as the plaque reads next to his statue at the corner of King and Depot Streets in downtown Boone. Watson was a neighbor and community member to many in Watauga County, and he was also the recipient of eight Grammy Awards—including a Lifetime Achievement—and the National Medal of Arts, presented by President Bill Clinton in 1997. Though he remained humble, Watson had an illustrious career, and his legacy is celebrated each June in Boone. The special day began ten years ago, in 2011, when the statue of Doc Watson was unveiled and then-mayor Loretta Clawson declared the third Friday in June as Doc Watson Day. The Town of Boone has celebrated each year since with a reading of the declaration and live performances featuring friends and musical disciples. During the afternoon of the first celebration in 2011, Doc Watson, David Holt, Wayne Henderson, Clint Howard, Charles Welch, and others performed on the porch of the Jones House. King Street was closed, and hundreds of people turned out to listen to Watson perform. After the show, Doc sat next to his statue while friends and fans took pictures of him next to his bronze likeness. Over the following months, Watson was spotted several times driving by the statue to show to friends. He was proud

of the landmark, which has become one of the most frequently photographed scenes in downtown Boone. Watson passed away the following May, just a month before he was scheduled to perform at the second annual Doc Watson Day celebration. Though the honoree was not there, the concert created a poignant memorial to Watauga County’s most iconic ambassador. Ten years later, the Town of Boone continues to celebrate Doc Watson Day each June, though the 2020 event will take on a new approach in lieu of COVID-19. “We are thrilled to reach the end of the first decade of this event,” says Cultural Resources Coordinator, Brandon Holder. “And though we will not be able to present a concert on the Jones House lawn, we are still excited to continue the Doc Watson Day celebration.” The 2020 Jones House Doc Watson Day concert was slated to include some of the best pickers from the Carolina Mountain Life region and beyond, including Beppe Gambetta, Cane Mill Road, Presley Barker, and the Jeff Little Trio. There were also plans in the works to have a featured evening concert at The Appalachian Theatre and “traditional-plus” artists and bands throughout downtown Boone at all of the live music venues. “Traditional-plus is the category Doc Watson spoke about when helping to

curate the music for the annual Merlefest event,” Holder says. “Today people frequently think of this music as ‘Americana.’” With social distancing in place, large crowds that typically gather for Doc Watson Day are not permitted for the tenth annual concert. “We were really excited to expand the event and incorporate some other downtown Boone venues as we hit this milestone, but we look forward to incorporating these expansions as we look ahead to many more years of Doc Day,” Holder adds. This year you can celebrate virtually—video performances of past Doc Watson Day concerts are available for fans to stream. ”We have a bunch of really great footage from some of the past concerts, including some from the first year with Doc performing,” Holder says. The 2011 Doc Watson Day concert was one of the last times Doc Watson performed for the public, and it was also the last stage appearance from Clint Howard, who made recordings with Doc as far back as the 1960s. For more information on the 2020 Doc Watson Day celebration—as well as other summer concerts and events originally slated to take place at the Jones House Cultural and Community Center over the summer, please visit www.joneshouse.org or call 828.268.6280.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

“Giving Back by Paying Forward”

Rosen Schaffel Stage at the Appalachian Theatre Joins Other Venues Perpetuating the Family’s Philanthropy By Kevin Christopher

ndercapitalization occurs when a business has insufficient funding, or capital, to support its operations. This condition is particularly common and problematic in the arts and cultural sector. Few visionaries have the foresight to recognize this challenge, much less the wherewithal to help solve the problem. Fortunately, our region has been blessed by the presence of the Rosen and Schaffel families. The recent announcement of a major capital gift to the historic Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (ATHC), coupled with last summer’s notice of a named venue at Appalachian State University, will further perpetuate the Rosen and Schaffel names in the minds of arts lovers and theatre patrons for generations to come. In all began in 1983 when the Broyhill Music Center was built at the University and the main concert hall named after Arnold and Muriel Rosen for their contributions to the arts. Over the years, millions of notes have been delivered in Rosen Concert Hall by students, faculty, guest artists to the High Country and, through the addition of the technology of live-streaming, to the world. Nancy and Neil Schaffel, the daughter and son-in-law of the Rosens, continued the tradition of support through the funding of upgrades to the 440-seat venue. To acknowledge their many contributions, the space next to the Rosen Concert Hall has been named the Nancy and Neil Schaffel Recital Hall. Dean James Douthit said, “In these challenging times, it is marvelous that through this gift, the Hayes School of Music can enrich the musical experience for our audiences and performers. There has never been a more important time to share music with our community. The cycle of giving supports ongoing work, and enriches performance opportunities for students in the Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University who will launch careers that will, in turn, expand the value of that gift in infinite ways.” Keith Martin, Chair-Elect of the ATHC Board of Trustees, announced the Appalachian Theatre gift during a Valentine’s Day curtain speech before “Love Letters,” the first theatrical performance in the newly-renovated 1938 venue, the first and only art deco building in the High Country. Martin said, “Nancy and Neil Schaffel have given much to our community, especially to encourage, promote, and enrich the performing arts. Nancy’s dynamic mother, Muriel Rosen, would have loved this theatre, and probably been the first person up on this stage… dancing, had she been given that chance. In light of Nancy and Neil’s generosity to this venerable facility, this historic treasure right here on King Street, all future plays and musicals at the Appalachian will be proudly promoted as taking place on the Rosen Schaffel Stage for Theatre.” Nancy Schaffel said, “Being asked as to why we became involved in the Appalachian Theatre prompted some thought. Then it dawned on me that very little thought went into our involvement. Our family has been long time supporters of the arts and this seemed like a natural fit. What could be a better gift to the community than to reopen the theater allowing accessible performances to all? “We are most grateful to John Cooper for undertaking this project and seeing it to completion. Thank you, John, for allowing us to contribute to the theater’s success story.”

For more information on both performance venues, visit www.apptheatre.org and www.music.appstate.edu.

30 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

art

Life Lessons in Art By Connie Robbins Gentry

ith her intuitive approach to painting, Debbie Arnold creates order out of chaos, giving her audience fine art that brings us into the moment and helps us turn off the noises in our head. While some art stirs passionate controversy, Arnold’s work compels introspection and meditative breaths—the embodiment of mindfulness in contemporary art. “The most important thing about my work, especially to me, is the ability to release judgement, to let go of ego, and create from a deeper place than I have access to consciously. I’ve rarely sat down and painted something the way it is,” Arnold explains, noting, however, that her creative process has evolved. Early in her career, she found herself starting with an idea, an objective or direction that she might want to achieve. Then it changed. “About 20 years ago I started to realize it was more interesting when I didn’t even have a concept to begin with, when I would just start painting and see what happened.” Sometimes she starts with random colors, shapes, or lines; sometimes she imprints with sponges; sometimes she collages and then paints on top of it. The process is more intuitive than intentional, and—while some paintings may take a year to complete—the end result is a positive creation that evokes a cathartic experience for artist and audience alike. “The fun thing,” Arnolds says, “is that it’s bled into the processes of my life. I trust my intuition more. If things feel chaotic and unmanageable, I try to let go of it and believe it’s all going to work out.” More often than not, it all comes together perfectly. When finished with a painting, she’s as surprised as anyone to see the results and, for Arnold, there is always a message in the work. “It’s an abstract process, but what I come away with is pretty concrete.” One of her personal favorites is her painting “Renewal of Mother Earth,” which sends a positive and impactful meaning, with imagery that is both esoteric and concrete. “It’s really about climate change and the destruction of the planet. I’m a strong environmentalist, and I’m also in my mid-60s and have seen so much that disturbs me. This painting gave me a message of hope; ‘Renewal of Mother Earth’ is about evolving beyond where we are in humanity.” According to Arnold, the flowers and the woman represent the spiritual aspect of ourselves, a spirituality that is often ignored but that is a huge part of our world. As the woman extends the flowers and gestures to the Earth, she does so with an open palm reminiscent of a symbolic bestowing of compassion and sincerity. As in this painting, what Arnold wants to do with all of her work is “to add something positive to the world. That’s always been my goal—partially because I wanted to add something positive to my life, too, rather than double down on the negativity that’s so easy to find these days.” To keep her mind open and flexible, Arnold may meditate or spend time outside walking. “I live a very quiet life, and I keep my life as uncluttered as possible,” she says. When she’s working, she keeps her mind occupied by listening to podcasts or documentaries, even watching television. Otherwise, her mind might interfere with her intuitive process.

“Renewal of Mother Earth,” conveys a message of hope around the issue of climate change, offering a gesture of compassion for humanity and our environment.

In recent years, her work has become increasingly based in nature and she enjoys producing landscapes, which she describes as both “relaxing to create” and “super challenging technically.” Like the experience of being out in nature, Arnold says her landscapes “have a feeling to them,” and—more than making a statement—these paintings bring those feelings to life for the viewer.

“The inspiration shows up when I’m standing there with a paintbrush in my hand.”

Debbie Arnold lives in Boone and creates her art through a spiritual exploration that she defines as “intuitive painting.” Find her work at Carlton Gallery located between Boone and Banner Elk (10360 Hwy. 105 S., Banner Elk, NC 28604), or at www.CarltonGallery.com and www.ArnoldFineArt.com. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

Fifty Years and Counting…

North American Academy of Piping and Drumming International Music Organization Has Its Home in the High Country By Keith Martin

hose of us who live, work, play, worship, or shop in Valle Crucis on a frequent basis know that summer has finally arrived in the High Country when the sound of bagpipes fills the air and the precision beat of drummers can be heard throughout the valley. It can mean only one thing: the North American Academy of Piping and Drumming (NAAPD) has come home for the summer. Like the swallows returning to Capistrano, this annual pilgrimage to the sacred grounds of the Valle Crucis Conference Center (VCCC) has brought as many as 311 musicians together for a month-long residency during which the NAAPD provides “the finest quality piping and drumming instruction available.” 2020 marks the 50th Anniversary of this international non-profit music school, which was started by the late John McFayden of Glasgow, Scotland, and his former student, Pipe Major Norval “Sandy” Jones in 1970. Over a dozen professional teachers conduct five week-long sessions with classroom instruction on all aspects of piping and drumming. For the first seven summers, the NAAPD operated out of the Crossnore School near Linville before outgrowing their facilities and relocating to Valle Crucis in 1978; they have been at the Conference Center ever since, a span of 43 consecutive years. VCCC Executive Director Margaret Love says, “Hosting the NAAPD is like having an extended family reunion every summer. There is a sense of ‘welcome home’ as each week’s classes arrive. The bagpipe

32 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

and drumming school connects us to the larger community, to a sense of heritage and history, and reminds us of our purpose as a ministry of hospitality. Plus, hearing pipes echoing across the hills is always tremendous.” Sandy Jones and his Family Legacy Co-founder Norval “Sandy” Jones, Pipe Master Emeritus, is the director of the NAAPD and began piping at the age of eight under George Mars of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. He served with the U.S. Air Force Pipe Band, and was its Pipe Major for eight years, often performing for Presidents, Heads of State, and dignitaries of foreign nations. Sandy continued his studies with Jack Chisolm of Inverness, Scotland and is the author of the book, “Beginning the Bagpipe: A Teaching Method for the Practice Chanter.” He travels throughout North America judging at highland games, conducting workshops, and performing at recitals. Sandy retired from The Citadel in Charleston, SC where he taught bagpipes for twenty-five years, but is currently active with the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and the Charleston Scottish Games. In 2017, Sandy was awarded the prestigious Balvenie Medal at the Glenfiddich Solo Piping Championship in Blair Atholl, Scotland. He celebrates his birthday each summer at the VCCC, and will turn 82 on July 17, 2020. Love says that “Sandy’s talent and teaching skills are unparalleled and

celebrated around the world, but his quick, dry sense of humor and his strong sense of integrity are what make him stand out.” “Sandy is not a tall man,” said Love, “and he is not loud unless he’s piping, but he has a presence about him that calls people to attention. When he walks into a crowded room, cane clicking on the hardwood floor, noise tends to cease around him like ripples of silence. While his colleagues are not shy about joking with him, there is an unspoken understanding that Sandy is in charge. He has not hesitated to remove students who cross behavior lines—especially when it comes to bullying—and he has a very low tolerance for musicians who do not take the academy seriously. “On the other hand,” Love is quick to add, “Sandy has been known to support students who cannot afford to participate in the NAAPD, and students know that if they need anything at all, his door is open. He has a special sensitivity to younger students who are homesick. Sandy and his wife of 50-plus years, Dorcas, are one of those couples that set examples for love. Dorcas has a movie-star look about her; Sandy sometimes wonders aloud how she ended up with him.” Their daughter, Cathleen Jones Nixon, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and serves as Administrative Director of the NAAPD. Cathleen is a renowned bagpiper in her own right and, keeping with family tradition, her son Cameron is an instructor at the music school. Nixon notes the close friendships that form among people who

ON THE ROOF OF THE VCCC INN

attend NAAPD. “When I was a teenager, I communicated throughout the year with friends I met at the piping school by writing letters, and we were excited to see each other at various highland games throughout the summer.” The current generation of students communicates with each other daily through texts, Snapchat, and social media, according to Nixon. “Different times, but still the same friendships form. Many people ask to room together each year in ‘their own’ same room.” Over the years, couples have met at NAAPD, fallen in love, and married. Sandy believes there have been at least twenty marriages over the years, including at least two weddings that have taken place at Valle Crucis. “My daughter, Amelia and her husband met at the piping school when they were ages nine and ten. They were married in Bishop Johnson Hall in 2018 and had a wonderful ceilidh (Scottish party) in the Apple Barn.” While other annual events such as “Singing on the Mountain” and the Highland Games at Grandfather Mountain have been cancelled, the NAAPD is continuing their teaching tradition. According to Nixon, “This year, we are going to celebrate a half-century of the piping school and registrations started out like gangbusters! Then COVID-19 hit and registrations halted, but so far, we have 108 people signed up this summer,” with additional students registering every week. Love says that the VCCC staff “always look forward to hosting the pipers; some

SANDY JON ES AND STUDEN TS

musicians have been visiting every summer since the school began in 1970. The staff and the pipers have a great relationship; there are pranks pulled every year, although those pranks have mellowed over time.” Nixon said that several of these pranks involved livestock, such as chickens, goats, and even a pig that was “gifted” to her father after Sandy told one group of women that their room was a pig sty at room inspection. Sandy says that, “Being in residence at the Conference Center for piping school purposes merely means residing there, versus being a day student. However, it means many more things to the students. I have heard a few folks over the years mention they attend just for the opportunity to sit on the porch and observe the beautiful valley. Others attend because they love the mountains of western North Carolina and would rather be in Valle Crucis than anywhere else.” Jones notes that students who have attended NAAPD for several years have become friendly with folks in the Valle and enjoy coming back to see them. “The Valle and the mountains remind some of them of Scotland and they enjoy playing their pipes in that atmosphere,” he said. “One of the reasons they enjoy coming back each year is because they just enjoy how friendly folks in Valle Crucis have been to the piping school for so many years.” When asked to explain how the NAAPD ended up at the VCCC, Sandy recalled meeting an elderly fellow at the Highland Games who asked how the

SANDY JONES & JOHN McFAYDEN

school was doing. “After telling him of our dilemma (outgrowing the Crossnore School facilities), he introduced me to Welch Tester, then the director of the Conference Center… and the rest is history. Even better, the man who introduced us, Joe Mast Clark, had been raised in the valley and was a member of the Clan Cameron at the Games, which is also my Clan and the Tartan both Cathi and I wear. We began having the school at the Conference Center the very next summer in 1978. “I cannot say enough about Margaret, past VCCC directors, and the employees of the Conference Center,” said Jones. “All of them have been so kind and personable to the students and many have made lifelong friendships. I know Mildred Tester (the recently-retired 92 year-old cook after whom the VCCC Dining Hall is named) receives many notes, cards, and good wishes, and she in turn keeps in touch with several of them. I know there are people who attended years ago who bring family members and friends to see the place they remember so well, just like elderly folks do when showing where they attended school in their younger days.” It’s all one big, happy, and very extended family. Happy 50th Anniversary to the North American Academy of Piping and Drumming, and welcome home to the High Country.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

“Deeply Rooted on Sacred Ground” The Resilience of the Valle Crucis Conference Center

AUCHMUTY HALL POSTCARD FROM THE 1920s

By Keith Martin

ow in its 178th year, the Valle Crucis Conference Center (VCCC) is a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina. Located on 450 acres of mountain woodland and verdant farming valley, it is truly one of the more beautiful places on Earth. With its beauty comes a sense of timeless spiritual grace that transcends denomination or faith tradition. With offices located in the historic Mission School, the property features buildings dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, nearly all of which are on the National Historic Register. It is open year-round to accommodate groups of five to 150. According to the VCCC website, there has been an Episcopal presence in the valley since 1842. Legend has it that Bishop Levi Stillman Ives saw the image of a St. Andrew’s Cross, in either the two streams in the valley, or in their accompanying mist, and named the area Valle Crucis, which is Latin for “Vale of the Cross.” Bishop Ives bought about 2,000 acres, much of it with his own money, and started a building project, of which only the Bishop Ives cabin still stands today. Ives had a dream of starting a monastic order in Valle Crucis, and in the intervening years, the property has been mission school, church, apple orchard, dairy, saw mill and wagon factory, power plant, girlsonly boarding school, another missionary training school, and today, a thriving conference center serving groups of people with common cause. These include youth groups on skiing trips, Diocesan events, vestry retreats, women’s programs, and events by many non-profit agencies. Perhaps the best known of the VCCC programs is the annual Valle Country Fair, a collaborative project with Holy Cross

Church held the third Saturday of each October with all net proceeds going to charity. As of 2019, together they had distributed over one million dollars in grants to approximately 115 non-profit organizations since the fair’s inception in 1979. Now entering her sixth year at VCCC, Margaret Love currently serves as executive director and had led a dynamic board in repositioning their mission and purpose: “To enable rest, renewal, and transformation through care for natural beauty and a true commitment to hospitality.” She has reaffirmed the core values of the center as follows: “We embody Christ in the world through a ministry of hospitality, by preparing a safe, comfortable, beautiful space; honoring the seeker, refreshing the weary, and nourishing the hungry; and being careful stewards of the Thin Place that is Valle Crucis.” Love says, “Of the many industries that have been affected by the COVID-19 crisis and shutdown, conference and retreat centers have been particularly hard-hit. VCCC has experienced 100% loss of group revenue through the end of June, with the effects of the shut-down projected to last well into the fall.” VCCC Board trustee Walter Browning says, “Margaret Love is a rockstar, and the perfect, visionary leader we need to guide the center through the challenges presented by the current pandemic.” “Mountain folks have always been resilient and resourceful,” said Love. “Our staff have gotten creative about alternative ways of raising funds and connecting with community. Thus was born the Valle General Store, selling sundries and staples to neighbors at reasonable prices from early April through the end of May. Valle Crucis residents must drive up to half

sacred 34 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

an hour to reach the closest groceries, so the store was filling a need for neighbors to safely purchase goods.” VCCC staff made sure to follow safe practices for social distancing and hygiene, with traffic flowing in one direction, limited numbers allowed in the store at a time, and a hand sanitizing station at the door. What started as a simple way to plug the hole in the budget grew into a community endeavor. As word spread about the Valle General Store, small local producers expressed interest in setting up tents in the large green space between buildings. Love says, “It’s been such an unexpected bonus, to be able to support small local farmers and provide an additional venue to sell, while helping our neighbors get basic needs met. We have always come together as a community in times of crisis.” The store was located in Crab Orchard Hall, the small white building across the lawn from the Apple Barn. VCCC staff sold basic cleaning supplies, toilet paper, rice, pasta, and other non-perishable staples; meats and fresh vegetables; and some prepared food items. Love and her staff are exploring other ideas that may be developed over the coming months, such as starting a drivein theater movie night in the field at the Apple Barn, “to go” meals for both locals and visitors, a “Pickin’ on the Porch” featuring neighborhood musicians, co-working space established in one of the buildings, and socially-distanced micro-wedding packages in Johnson Hall and/or the chapel at the Hermitages. Regardless of which projects come to fruition, the resilience of the Valle Crucis Conference Center is being demonstrated yet again as it continues to model the “ministry of hospitality” that has been its trademark since 1842.

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Art:

Alive and Well in the High Country By Tamara S. Randolph and Steve York

ine arts and crafts abound in our area, and every year, the High Country’s diverse art settings attract many thousands of enthusiasts from all over the region. 2020 will be no different, even though we “stayed at home” through most of the spring. From our small artist-owned creative spaces, to cooperative art galleries, to our larger outdoor art festivals, patrons continue to be drawn to the many options for enjoying and purchasing a variety of art here in the High Country. As you plan your summer art outings, we encourage you to add some of the following destinations to your itinerary, being sure to check each venue for updates to their operations and summer schedules.

Outdoor Art Exhibits

Our annual art festivals and outdoor art venues are well attended during the summer, so plan your weekend “art getaway” in advance, then take your time exploring our quaint mountain towns. Blowing Rock Art in the Park | July 18, August 15, September 12, October 3 | Blowing Rock, NC

Art in the Park was created in 1962 by a handful of area artists and craftspeople to showcase local talent. Today, Art in the Park hosts 90+ fine art and craft vendors at each show. Some of the best local and regional artists and craftspeople showcase their handcrafted jewelry, pottery, fiber, glass, photography, painting and more. There is truly something for everyone, with pieces ranging from $5 to $5,000. Art in the Park’s high standards and professional jury attract artisans from all over the Southeast to exhibit in a series of shows, May through October. The quality of work exhibited draws thousands to the area each month. Planned and administered by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, Art in the Park makes for an ideal day trip—shop the beautiful handmade crafts

38 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

and stroll through the picturesque Village of Blowing Rock. https://blowingrock.com/ artinthepark/ Art on the Greene | July 4-5, Aug. 1-2, Sept. 5-6 | Downtown Banner Elk, NC

Art on the Greene transforms the grounds of the Historic Banner Elk School into an art gallery multiple times each summer. These popular shows take place July Fourth weekend, the first weekend in August and Labor Day weekend. Each show highlights works from up to 60 local and regional artists, and allows shoppers to add to their art collections while supporting historic preservation at the same time. Booth rental proceeds are donated to the Town of Banner Elk for ongoing efforts to transform the historic school into a center for visual and performing arts. “I hope attendees find our town to be a place they want to return and tell other people about,” says Kimberly Tufts, show director. “I also hope they leave with something tangible, that they find a new piece of artwork and build a relationship with an artist that enriches their life.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Food vendors are on hand, complementing the offerings at downtown restaurants within easy walking distance. http://www.townofbannerelk.org/beshows Avery Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival | July 17-19, August 14-16 | Sugar Mountain, NC

In 2020, the Avery Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival relocates to Sugar Mountain Resort, where festival goers can shop for fine art AND experience a day of adventure! The three-day juried festival, enjoyable for all ages, welcomes visitors at no charge and brings an eclectic gathering of unique fine artists and master crafters to the foot of beautiful Sugar Mountain. Fine art and craft examples include photography, paintings, jewelry, sculpture,

pottery, weaving, glass art, wood crafts, wood furniture, specialty candles, body care & soaps and many more. After a day of shopping, mix in some adventure by taking a chair lift ride up the mountain or participating in extreme biking. The Festival benefits the Avery County Chamber of Commerce. Times are Friday, 1-5 p.m., Saturday, 10-5 p.m. and Sunday, 10-4 p.m. www.averycounty.com, www. skisugar.com. Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden & Gallery | Gallery Hours Thur.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. Noon-5 p.m. | Linville Falls, NC

Summer is a great time to be in the garden! Anvil Arts is a unique arts destination to explore sculpture by renowned sculptor and gallery owner Bill Brown, as well as works from a variety of artists represented by Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden & Gallery. Visitors and collectors have the opportunity to experience a wide range of outdoor sculpture as well as sculpture for interiors. Currently the garden and gallery represent artists working in metal, glass, clay, and stone. All the works displayed indoors and outdoors are available for purchase. Visit studiosculpture.com for up-todate special event listings and view an online gallery of current works on display. Anvil Arts is located on Hwy 221 in Linville falls. “WE look great in our masks & know you will too.” Studiosculpture.com

Indoor Museums, Galleries and Virtual Visits

Many galleries in the High Country are open for business with new visitor guidelines in place. And as summer steams on and the higher numbered “Phases” kick in, we will likely see the remainder of our local High Country galleries and museums safely welcoming patrons once again. Here we list a sampling of some of the terrific indoor art venues. Once again, please be sure to visit each gallery’s website before scheduling your visit.

Continued on page 40

Stroll the aisles for special finds

Top Left: Mica: This popular gallery is housed in an historic commercial building in Bakersville, NC | Bottom Right: Tetness, the Polar Bear, a welcoming sight outside the Turchin Center for Visual Art | Lower Left and Inset: Art on Greene - bear by Tracie Luther | Facing Page: Mountain Blue Gallery - pottery by Bob Meier CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM) | 159 Ginny Stevens Lane (Formerly Chestnut St.), Blowing Rock, NC

BRAHM provides cultural enrichment to the High Country communities by promoting the Arts and Southern Appalachian heritage & history through educational programs, exhibitions, activities, and permanent collections. BRAHM offset its temporary public closing by offering a virtual outreach, engagement and promotional strategy of its visual arts and history exhibits online to help bring BRAHM into the home. For example, their “Young at Art Student Spectacular” exhibition created by kindergarten through third grade students from Blowing Rock School was converted into a completely digital experience. In addition, one of their newest exhibitions, Terra Ludis: Play Ground, features an online component in addition to stunning photography by local photographers. www.blowingrockmuseum.org The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts | 423 West King St., Boone, NC

Mica | 37 N. Mitchell Avenue, Bakersville, NC

Mica is a cooperative gallery of fine contemporary art whose members’ commitment to working together for nine years has helped to sustain a group of excellent artists dedicated not only to their artwork but to their community. Mica was about to open the door for its 9th year of operation when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The gallery responded to the “stay-athome” order by establishing Shop Mica Online with members pitching in to develop a “shop from your home” internet presence at www.micagallerync.com/shop. Throughout the season, Mica Gallery typically hosts a number of events that showcase its members and visiting artists. Pease follow Mica Gallery on Facebook and Instagram for updates on events and reopening plans. www.micagallerync.com Alta Vista Gallery | 2839 Broadstone, Valle Crucis, NC

Maria Hyde’s beautiful collection is housed in a National Register of Historic Properties farmhouse. Hyde shows over 100 artists in all media and specializes in local mountain landscapes. (828-9635247), altavistagallery.com

BE Artists Gallery | 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC

Inside the renovated Historic Banner Elk School, built in 1939, is a cooperative of 30+ local artists. Enjoy over 800 square feet showcasing fine art and crafts. art@ beartistsgallery.com, BEartistsgallery.com

Mountain Blue Gallery 151 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, NC The gallery offers a diverse selection of original encaustics, oils, acrylics, mixed media, kiln-formed glass, stoneware, pottery, silk, fabrics, jewelry and more. (828898-4477), https://www.mountainbluegallery.com Art Cellar | 920 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk, NC

The Art Cellar Gallery & Framemakers offers museum-quality framing services, in-house professional art consultation and creative design solutions for homeowners and businesses. The gallery specializes in fine art, sculpture and other three-dimensional works in glass, clay, wood and stone. http://www.artcellaronline.com

creativity

The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts (TCVA) at Appalachian State University, in the heart of downtown Boone, features seven galleries of contemporary art, with changing exhibitions. TCVA has offered virtual visitations and exhibition tours during its temporary closure. Those tours, along with art and artist information, can be explored via their website at tcva.appstate.edu. To enhance the digital experience, each gallery has been videoed so that digital visitors can partake in the gallery experience. Workshop prompts are also offered digitally through the website and Facebook so that community members can be creative outside the Turchin Center. https://tcva.appstate.edu/

Carlton Gallery | 10360 Hwy 105 South, Banner Elk, NC (between Boone and Banner Elk)

Toni Carlton has been opened 38 years, which makes her gallery one of the most established fine art galleries in the High Country of Western North Carolina. Carlton Gallery features a spirited collection of artwork in all mediums with over 200 local, regional, and national artists. (828963-4288), carltongallery.com

Sally Nooney’s Gallery | 7137 Hwy 194, Banner Elk, NC

Located halfway between Banner Elk and Valle Crucis, look for the building with the big American flag painted on it. This multi-media artist does everything from functional art glass to original paintings in oil, watercolor and acrylic. (828963-7347), www.sallynooney.com This summer, whether inside, outside, or online, you can appreciate and celebrate some of the High Country’s best art and artists!

Left: Art on Greene - boat on water, watercolor by R. Tatum / Right: Anvil Arts: Window, by Bill Brown and The Kiss, by Carl Peverall in the Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden

40 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Book Nook

Enjoy a summer filled with reading!

30 Great North Carolina Science Adventures: From Underground Wonderlands to Islands in the Sky and Everything in Between (A Southern Gateways Guide) April C. Smith, Editor —Reviewed by Tamara S. Randolph Here is a timely book that people of all ages can appreciate! As families eagerly seek out creative and educational opportunities, as well as outdoor fun, 30 Great North Carolina Science Adventures emerges as an all-in-one guide for summer explorers. For those of you who believe science is simply too boring or time-consuming, this handy reference might just change your mind. “It’s a fully immersive experience that’s intended to make learning about science fun and easy,” says author April C. Smith. Conveniently broken out into North Carolina’s primary eco-regions, readers can quickly find attractions and activities near their location. Each chapter includes an introduction to the destination, along with information on history, geology, ecology, and more. The book “provides both historical and scientific context for what an explorer will find in that location,” explains Smith, and each chapter concludes with tips and suggestions for making your adventure more successful. The guide also offers additional references and resources to expand your knowledge long after your visit. Heading to the Carolina Coast this summer? Check out the chapter that explores the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula), a carnivorous plant naturally found only in southeastern NC, near Wilmington. Interested in learning more about our state’s gold mines in the Piedmont region? The guide provides an easy to understand explanation of how gold originated in this part of our state, and how the vast quantities that once existed led to a “gold rush.” Here in the mountains, adventurers can learn about and explore many of our geologic curiosities, such as Linville Caverns in northern McDowell County, the Fred Webb Jr. Outdoor Geology Laboratory, also known as the “Rock Garden,” in Boone, and the Mount Jefferson State Natural Area, which is part of the “Amphibolite” range. What is amphibolite, you ask? Chapter 7 holds the answer! “One of the beautiful things about this book is that the adventures cater to a wide range of ages,” adds Smith. “Some are easy, and some are more challenging, but most of the adventures allow the reader to decide how invested he/she wants to be.” Local science and education experts from across the state have chipped in with content, making the book a truly statewide effort. “I feel very lucky that so many people shared my vision for this project,” shares Smith. With 30 unique sites to explore throughout our state, you’ll have fun uncovering the mysteries of our natural wonders and you’ll take pride in the biological and geological diversity that exists in our special state. Order or pick up a copy of 30 Great North Carolina Science Adventures at your local N.C. bookseller or online at https:// uncpress.org/.

Gracie: A Bilingual Adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains Kathryn Leslie, Author and Anita Morra, Illustrator —Reviewed by Tamara S. Randolph Summer and reading go hand in hand. And during the summer break, parents and grandparents typically want to spend more time reading with the children in their lives. Gracie: A Bilingual Adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a new picture book with easy reading, written by local author Kathryn Leslie and illustrated by Anita Morra. Kids will not only enjoy the story of Gracie, a dog in search of something very precious, they will enjoy learning and practicing a second language at the same time. It’s a fun way to help develop your child’s potential for foreign language fluency. And while this book is primarily written for children, monolingual adult readers will appreciate the opportunity to put together words and short phrases in a language that may not be familiar to them. Each time you read the book together, you’ll both be building language skills! This based-on-a-true-story, bilingual adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains will also inspire and encourage families to explore the flora of our unique mountain environment. The author provides a “Look-and-Find” section at the end of the book, which serves as a mini field guide to common native and invasive plants located in our region. These plants and flowers, including Frazier fir, mountain laurel and purple clover, appear in illustrations throughout the book, and many are likely growing in your own backyard. Once you’ve read about Gracie and have found out what she’s been searching for, pack up your book, gather the children, and head outside to find and identify a dozen plants growing near you. Gracie: a bilingual adventure is available in Spanish/English, French/English and German/English. Free audio versions are also available. The book is suitable for children ages 1 to 4 with help from an adult, and children ages 5 and up with basic reading skills. Visit www.auntkatiesplace.com to learn more and order your copy. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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CLOSET SPECIALS

The Consignment Cottage Warehouse

“From Classic Traditional To Unique Eclectic ... And Everything In Between...”

66 Pershing St, Newland, NC / 828-733-8148 theconsignmentcottagewarehouse.com / shannonseiz@gmail.com Summer Hours: Thursday - Saturday 10-5 Please wear a mask during your visit (available at our store for $3). We are working hard to maintain a healthy environment for all patrons.

42 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Southern Charm in the High Country

HOME

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Out Into the Woods By Terry Moore-Painter

hike a day keeps the doctor away. No, wait, I think it’s an apple a day, but there must be some epigrammatic saying about setting off, sturdy hiking stick in hand and bird book under my arm, determined to escape the sedentary lifestyle. A good hike, meandering through the forests and steep hills of the Blue Ridge, has a great capacity to mystify me. Moving my legs, using my calf muscles to climb, feeling my heartbeat and breath quicken, almost surely rid my mind of any sadness or anguish I felt earlier simply sitting in my easy chair. It’s something of an enigma, really, one I don’t always understand. I just know that my soul requires putting my feet, one after the other, on the earth, in the dirt, on the rocky trails in the mountains. I need sheer wandering in my life. I need the feeling of being suffused with wildness. I must, every now and then, stand transfixed before tall, swaying trees or a tiny blue-headed vireo singing its heart out in the woods or a spotted fawn standing as still as a sculpted statue at trail’s edge, trying to be invisible. I need to be dazzled by the unspeakable and abundant beauty that resides here, the clear, rushing creeks and waterfalls tumbling over rock or the happy surprise of a jack-in-the-pulpit, almost hidden underfoot by lush green ferns.

44 Summer2020 2020CAROLINA CAROLINAMOUNTAIN MOUNTAINLIFE LIFE 46——Summer

Furniture • Appliances Small Household Items • Books Clothing & Accessories 1/2 Off on clothing every Saturday! Donations welcomed. Pick up available for furniture and appliances Thank you for your continued support

So much in today’s world has run amok. So much of our fragile and precious earth is ravaged, annihilated even, by our modern way of living, by greed and lack of connection to what really sustains us. There are so many pyrrhic victories over nature, victories that provide us humans with more comforts and conveniences than we need and yet leave us as a people bereft and empty. These advances too often are far from being triumphant for us or our earth. As I write, there is an anonymous saying posted on the wall over my desk at the Valle Crucis Conference Center: “Go out into the woods. Go out. If you don’t go out into the woods, nothing will ever happen and your life will never begin.” With that wisdom in mind, I think my next outing will be a peripatetic one, perhaps with John Muir as my teacher. I will walk, wondering, pondering the meaning of that saying on the wall, although I suspect I really know its meaning. Each time I go into the woods here, I find myself paying attention to the nature surrounding me, and I am filled with its gifts of color and life and peace. Each time, I learn something new, I know appreciation and gratitude, and I become aware of my place in creation. And each time I hike, as the saying goes, my life begins all over again.

828-262-5029 877 West King Street, Boone NC Open Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm SPONSORED BY RESORT AREA MINISTRIES

The Big Picture Show

Honeyland:

Small Bees, Big Story By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

f all the many amazing insects on our planet, few can compete with the industrious, helpful honeybee. Honeybees are responsible for pollinating flowers, trees, and vegetables, all while providing useful beeswax and delicious honey. Although apis mellifera, the domesticated honeybee, is not native to North America, no one can accuse her of not earning her keep. Brought to the New World by early settlers, the honeybee quickly became a valuable part of the ecosystem, just as she had been in the Old World. An ancient practice dating back to the earliest civilizations, the symbiotic relationship of humans and bees has its own character in each culture. Beekeeping here in Appalachia is a timehonored craft, as elders pass on their knowledge and their gear to those who want to learn, to be part of the tradition, and to partner with these incredible little insects. Thankfully, it is a tradition that is alive and well, with active clubs like the Watauga Beekeepers, who meet in Boone, and Burnsville’s Toe Cane Beekeepers Association. Bees are beloved by both serious apiculturists and amateur hobbyists, by those new to the craft and those whose families have practiced it for decades. Beekeepers are a diverse lot whose theories and philosophies are as unique as the people who hold them. There is more than a little truth in the old joke that if ten beekeepers are asked how to solve a problem, there will be eleven answers. While there may be some debate about beekeeping practice, there is no question about the fact that these incredible insects are both vital to humans and often endangered both by natural and humancreated forces. The beautiful, complex, and challenging questions and ideas that are encapsulated in beekeeping are at the center of last year’s award-winning documentary, Honeyland. Filmed outside Northern Macedonia, a mountainous, rural region, Honeyland follows Hatidze Muratova, and her dying mother Nazife, the last residents of a decaying village, as Hatidze collects honey from her bees and faces challenges far more difficult than a sting or two. Hatidze is a traditionalist, caring for her elderly mother instead of having a family of her own, and tending her bees with care and respect. She sometimes wears a veiled hat over the flowered scarf that covers her hair, but she caresses her bees with ungloved hands, and she scales steep mountainsides, seeking wild hives while wearing a long skirt. Most importantly, she sees her bees, whether in a remote cliffside or in a homemade skep topped with a discarded army helmet, as partners. She sings to them, thanks them, and says, as she collects honey to sell and trade for her living, “Half for me, half for you.” Her simple life is complicated by the arrival of a large, noisy family of itinerant cattle farmers, the Husseins, whose haphazard and profit-driven methods of beekeeping stand in stark opposition to the symbiotic ways of Hatidze. While the film certainly focuses on the conflict of Hatidze and her neighbors, it also showcases her beautiful and complex relationship with her mother. Like a worker bee herself, Hatidze feeds, clothes, and cares for her mother, sacrificing her own dreams. The filmmakers chronicle the lives of their subjects without voiceover or judgment, letting the story tell itself, with a wide variety of images: sweeping shots of beautiful, stark scenery of the Macedonian

countryside, intimate moments with Hatidze and her mother, arguments between neighbors and family members, and spectacular macroscopic scenes of the bees. It is often a harrowing story, as the conflicts and difficulties of the subjects are very real, but it is also a story with moments of beauty, joy, and humor, depicted with great respect and dignity by the filmmakers. As Hatidze works to provide for her mother, she also picks out some hair color for herself and tinkers with the radio, plays with the neighbor children and scolds her dog. The beehive, a complex, female-driven microcosm controlled by the powerful chemical patterns that draw the bees to follow their queen, even when she absconds to a new home, is, like Hatidze’s world, a paradox of contrasts that nonetheless function beautifully. Despite its exotic setting and subtitled dialogue (the only English we hear is on the radio), Honeyland is remarkably relevant for us here in Appalachia. The abandoned village, without water, telephone, or electricity, is more rugged than most places near us, but the conditions there would not have been unknown in some local areas until relatively recently. The struggles between traditional practices and modern opportunities are real challenges for us here, as they are for Hatidze and the Husseins. The joys and conflicts of family life are also familiar. Like the art of beekeeping itself, our families are messy, sticky, occasionally painful, but also sweet, providing us with sustenance and connection. Honeyland is a beautiful reminder of the difficulties and joys we all face, reflected in the experiences of a remarkable woman and those she encounters. Honeyland is directed by Ljubo Stefanov and Tamara Kotevska and is available from a variety of streaming services and channels. Note: Some of the subtitled language is not appropriate for children, and the family conflicts, the result of real issues, not the products of a Hollywood script, may also be disturbing to some viewers. Some of the beekeeping scenes are difficult to watch, as careless handling results in stings to the Hussein children and damage to the bees. However, the film is appropriate for most viewers, especially for those able to grasp its complex messages about humans, bees, and the world we all share. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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46 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Beekeeping 101 By Mary Williams

hen I left for college, my father bought a few acres of land outside of Charlotte. There was nothing he enjoyed more than putting on his old hat, jumping in his truck and heading for the farm. For him this little plot of land was freedom. A neighbor gave him an empty hive and sold him on the virtues of beekeeping, and he decided to give it a try. One day my father called my brother to solicit his help. Dad had been to South Carolina and returned with a plastic bag full of bees. It was dark when they arrived at the farm to introduce the bees to their new home. My father had a track record of, “Learn as you go,” which is never advisable when relocating irritated bees. That was the last time my brother helped with the hive. Later that summer, I arrived for a visit. My father was at the farm, dressed in his winter hat, coveralls, and snow boots. He was covered with honey and bees, and in his hand was a pail of beautiful honeycomb. He was happy and I was in awe. Years later when I was cleaning out my parents’ home, I found dad’s hive tool. Today it is one of my prized possessions. It kindled my desire to become a beekeeper. I have now been a keeper for 12 years. As an art and a science, beekeeping is always intriguing. Honey bees (Apis mellifera) depend on beekeepers to learn and practice sound management techniques. I learned the science of beekeeping by attending courses and reading, and I deepened that knowledge by participating in the Watauga County Beekeepers Association. The club is an intergenerational group that comes together to discuss beekeeping; those with more experience talk about beekeeping, new beekeepers listen and ask questions, and new ideas emerge. In addition to local clubs, state and national groups have much to offer beginning and advanced beekeepers alike.

The North Carolina State Beekeepers Association (NCSBA) is the largest in the United States with approximately 4,700 members. The organization has sound leadership, supports local clubs, hosts two annual conferences and maintains an awesome website at https://www.ncbeekeepers.org/. Interested in becoming a beekeeper? To get started, you’ll need three things: 1) a passion that makes you want to spend time and money to become a beekeeper, 2) knowledge based on science that grows over time, and 3) a mentor to help you. Passion If you have an interest in beekeeping the best way to feed that passion is through joining a local beekeeping club. Call your county Cooperative Extension Agency or visit the NCSBA website to find a club, then sign up for a Beginning Beekeeping course. Community colleges and some universities also offer courses through Continuing Education Programs. Classes are typically taught from January to April because the beekeeping season begins in early spring. If you are unable to find a course right away, develop your passion by participating in your local club, and then take a course the following year. Knowledge A little history and biology about honey bees is a good place to begin. Honey bees evolved from solitary bees over 40 million years ago. The species has a highly developed social structure designed for the survival of the colony, and each bee in the colony has a role that contributes to that design. Their life history is truly fascinating and you can find a wealth of information online (see references at the end of this article). Beekeeping can be an expensive hobby—making sound decisions is important, beginning with the hive. Some beekeepers

make their own, while others choose to purchase hives. Several varieties of honey bees can be bought from suppliers; varieties have different traits with respect to honey production, temperament, swarming tendencies, disease resistance, and pollen and propolis collection. Instructors and mentors can guide the novice to a trusted supplier known for selling quality bees. Once you have a hive, you’ll need to select a site. The optimal hive site faces southeast, is sunny and dry, and protected from the wind. Here in the mountains, bears can be a problem and protecting your hive from predators must also be considered. Next is gear. With a wide range of bee gear available, count on your instructors and mentors, who can describe the purpose of each tool and simplify your options. They can also guide you to local suppliers, who will work with you to make decisions based on your budget. A popular topic in clubs and classes is seasonal management. This skill is based on knowledge, practice and keen observation of the seasons and weather, as both influence food sources available to bees. Beekeepers watch what bees gather in each season and if food is not available due to weather, they know how to respond. You’ll also hear beekeepers talk about varroa mites and other pests. Mites can infest a hive in the spring and kill it within a year. Controlling pests and raising robust bees requires an early commitment and year-round hive management by beekeepers. As a new beekeeper, I initially thought all honey was the same, but this is not so. Nectar collected from trees in early spring yields honey that tastes very different from honey produced in late summer. Course instructors will often bring Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

in frames of honey for students to extract and taste. Honey is the sweet reward of good beekeeping!

Ashe County...

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Mentors By the end of a beginning course, most people know if they want to commit to beekeeping. One valuable resource beekeeping clubs can offer (that books and you-tube videos do not) is one-on-one mentoring. Mentors are patient teachers who invest their time and knowledge in new beekeepers because they want them to succeed. My mentor changed the way I keep bees. In the fall of my third year of beekeeping cold weather arrived early, and I too hurriedly readied my hives for winter. I sensed this was a mistake, and when I opened my hives in the spring, they were a mess. Not having the experience to know what to do, I called my mentor. He came, smoker in hand, and carefully helped me take apart the hives. When we took a break, he sat in front of the hives and patted the ground for me to join him. He asked me what I saw, then crafted stories to explain the inner workings of the hive. His words communicated deep respect for the bees. As I listened and watched him work, I felt his reverence for this tiny insect and knew I was learning from someone who had mastered the art of beekeeping. While I was writing this article, I took a walk to the bee yard. The sky was a beautiful red as the sun set behind the mountains. I knew the bees would be in for the evening, so I walked up and put my ear to the hive and tapped. The response was a very loud BUZZ. That sound stirred the passion I felt as a new beekeeper and is why I keep bees. I find great joy in the bee yard and sharing my passion for bees with others. If you choose to become a beekeeper, do it well and may it always thrill you to hear the sweet sound of a honey bee.

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Watauga County Beekeepers Association http://wataugabeekeepers.org/contact-us/ Ashe County Beekeepers Association https://www.ashebeekeepers.org/ North Carolina State Beekeepers Association (NCSBA) ttps://www.ncbeekeepers.org/ N.C. Cooperative Extension https://www.ces.ncsu.edu The Honeybee Conservancy https://thehoneybeeconservancy.org/

48 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

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H O M E S H O U L D B R I N G YO U C LO S E R Centrally located with unmatched views and a maintenance-free lifestyle, Echota is home to the memories that will forever remain close to your heart. Explore one- to fi vebedroom condominiums, townhomes and single-family homes nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. To view listings and learn more about our growing community, visit echotanc.com. TO SCHEDULE A HOME TOUR, CALL (828) 963-7600.

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Grandfather Mountain Announces 2020 Schedule of Events By Natalie Brunner

Following a two-month closure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Grandfather Mountain re-opened in a limited capacity May 15, with all ticket sales moving online. In accordance with N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper’s three-phased “reopening” of North Carolina, the nonprofit nature park will strictly limit visitor numbers to follow social gathering guidelines, while implementing enhanced health and safety measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and federal, state and local authorities. Additional information about the park’s procedure and reopening can be found at www.grandfather. com/covid-19-update/. “2020 is going to be a remarkable year on Grandfather Mountain,” said Frank Ruggiero, director of marketing and communications for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the nonprofit organization that owns and operates the park. “Our schedule is packed with special events that bridge education with outdoor fun, while allowing us to share the wonders of Grandfather Mountain with guests of all ages.” With a few exceptions where noted, most special events are included with park admission. Schedule is subject to change due to COVID-19. Additional events will be announced and posted on www.grandfather.com. The Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble May 30-June 7, 2 p.m. From May 30 to June 7, a series of 20-minute walks will highlight Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Animal Birthday Party Wednesday, June 10, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Grandfather Mountain celebrates the birthdays of all the animals in its environmental habitats with games, contests, crafts and surprises. The mountain’s habitat staff will host a fun-filled day for guests, as well as programs to celebrate the park’s furry and feathered inhabitants. Animal Enrichment Day Wednesday, Aug. 12, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Enrichment is an integral part of how the mountain cares for its habitat animals every day. An enrichment is a special treat, new toy or even an unfamiliar scent given to the animals to break up their routines and help keep them active and intellectually stimulated. Visitors can enjoy watching enrichment demonstrations, talk directly with keepers and participate in familyoriented games and crafts.

From May 30 through June 7, guests can enjoy guided hikes to the mountain’s most colorful spots. Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic Aug. 15-16 Top photographers gather at Grandfather Mountain to present on the nuts and bolts of making good photographs. This event is free to working members of the press, with an additional cost for non-press professionals and amateurs. Online registration begins July 15 at grandfather.com. Junior Ranger Day Saturday, Sept. 12, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Grandfather Mountain’s Junior Ranger Day will celebrate the park’s Junior Ranger program and its esteemed participants. Programs throughout the day will be provided specifically for children ages 5-12 to explore their environment and experience all that Grandfather has to offer. 50th Annual Girl Scout Day Saturday, Sept. 26, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Girl Scouts are invited to join the park’s naturalists for a learning adventure on Grandfather Mountain. Participants can enjoy special scout activities, presentations and a closing ceremony. Plus, all Girl Scouts and troop leaders are admitted free with proof of membership, and family members will receive discounted admission. HawkWatch September All throughout September, guests are invited to join the mountain’s naturalists as they count and celebrate the annual spectacle of the fall raptor migration. Participants can meet daily across the Mile High Swinging Bridge on Linville Peak, weather permitting. Continued on next page CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

mountain notes Creatures of the Night & Bonfire Delight Saturday, Oct. 3, 6-9:30 p.m. As night falls on Grandfather Mountain, guests can enjoy rare after-dark tours, fireside tales and a chance to meet the park’s nocturnal residents. Additional cost. Limited to 48 participants. Registration opens Aug. 24. at grandfather.com. The Fall Color Ramble, Oct. 3-11, 2 p.m. From Oct. 3-11, guests can enjoy 20-minute guided walks that highlight Grandfather Mountain’s fall colors. Beary Scary Halloween, Saturday, Oct. 31, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit Grandfather Mountain for a day of nature programs about animals considered creepy and crawly. This festive celebration includes an opportunity to create special Halloween enrichments for the animals and then trick-or-treat through the animal habitats area. Plus, children in costume are admitted at half-price. And More Grandfather Mountain may add additional events to its lineup throughout the year, although the schedule is subject to change. To learn more, visit www.grandfather.com, email events@grandfather.com, or call 828-733-2013. The not-for-profit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation strives to inspire conservation of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For more information, call 800-468-7325, or visit www.grandfather.com to plan a trip.

Kodiak, Grandfather Mountain’s resident cinnamon-phase black bear, makes a splash during the park’s annual Animal Enrichment Day, returning Aug. 12. Photo by Victoria Darlington | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

The diversity of flora on Grandfather Mountain makes it an idyllic location for fall color display. From Oct. 3-11, guests can enjoy guided hikes to the mountain’s most colorful spots. Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

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54 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

BLUE RIDGE EXPLORERS:

Get Outdoors and ecoEXPLORE! By Tamara S. Randolph This time of year, families yearn for adventures that are fun for the entire family. And with a continued focus on health and safety, parents welcome new opportunities for structured activities outside in nature.

ecoEXPLORE (Experiences Promoting Learning Outdoors for Research and Education) is all about experiencing nature and sharing discoveries with others. Developed by The North Carolina Arboretum this innovative program combines science exploration with kid-friendly technology to foster a fun learning environment for children (K-8) while encouraging them to explore the outdoors and participate in citizen science. Plus, they can earn badges and prizes for their contributions to scientific research! What exactly is Citizen Science? Citizen Science encourages volunteers of any age to collect and submit scientific information—in this case, photos and basic data on our state’s plants and animals—to real life scientists. This information in turn assists in the scientists’ research and data analysis. By becoming a citizen scientist, participants can help professional scientists understand changes in the environment and see how these changes impact plants, animals and other natural resources.

Where do families go to ecoEXPLORE and collect information? Given that most of us are sticking pretty close to home these days, you can currently participate from your own backyard. Or, visit one of the dozens of designated ecoEXPLORE HotSpots throughout North Carolina. HotSpots are safe, accessible, and biodiverse places for families to go to make observations of plants and animals and share their observations. Participants take photos with their own devices, or they can check out an iPod Touch at any of the ecoEXPLORE LoanSpots. Our region is home to several designated HotSpots, including Grandfather Mountain State Park, Elk Knob State Park, New River State Park, Lake James State Park, and Mount Mitchell State Park. One of the newest ecoEXPLORE HotSpots in the High Country is the Banner Elk Greenway at Tate-Evans Park in downtown Banner Elk. Local ecoEXPLORE LoanSpots include the Watauga Public Library and Morganton Public Library. How do we get started? Step 1: Visit https://www.ecoexplore.net/ — Here you’ll learn more about the program and sign up to participate. It’s an easy process that takes only a few minutes Step 2: See it! — Head outside in your own backyard or to a designated ecoEXPLORE HotSpot to find plants and wildlife species, including reptiles, amphibians, insects and birds. (You can find a detailed map of all designated HotSpots at www. ecoexplore.net.)

Step 3: Snap It! — Participants can use their own device, or check out an iPod Touch at a participating LoanSpot location, and photograph their wildlife observation, noting the location, time, size and species observed. Step 4: Share It! — Participants then log into their ecoEXPLORE profile online and submit their “share” or observation. Arboretum staff will review the data and submit all approved submissions to the iNaturalist Network (https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/ecoexplore), an online database used by real scientists! All families are welcome, and there’s no cost to participate. Funding from the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation ensures this program is free for all residents of our state. Learn more about ecoEXPLORE at www.ecoexplore.net, and all the family and youth programs offered through the NC Arboretum at www.ncarboretum.org. This Summer Is Herpetology Season! Herpetology is the study of amphibians and reptiles, such as frogs, snakes and salamanders. Amphibians are animals that are soft-skinned, cold-blooded and usually undergo a metamorphosis. There are over 7,000 species of amphibians worldwide. Reptiles are animals that have scales, are cold-blooded and do not have a larval stage. There are over 10,000 species of reptiles worldwide. Through August 30, ecoEXPLORERS can take the “Herpetology Challenge” and earn points toward their “Herpetology” badge. Get more information at https:// www.ecoexplore.net/badges. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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BIRDING

Community Scientists in action, photo by Eve Trabel / Red-winged Blackbird and Indigo Bunting, photos by Don Mullaney

Conservation and Community Science By Curtis Smalling

s warmer weather arrives in the High Country, we are reminded that our birds are as ready for the warm-up as we are! Singing has picked up, displays are happening as Red-winged Blackbirds flash their gaudy red epaulets and Chimney Swifts are back doing their spiraling, twittering flights. And since birds communicate with each other in much the same way we do—through sound and visual cues— we notice them more than a lot of other groups of wildlife. Those traits also make them an easy group to study and keep track of, and thanks to the internet age, it is now easier than ever to learn even more about them through community science (or “citizen science”) projects. This summer, let’s all make a commitment to use the fascination we have with birds to help inform better conservation decisions and a more thorough understanding of the birds that share our yards and forests. The National Audubon Society was founded more than 100 years ago around the notion that regular folks could do something good for birds through community science. The first Christmas Bird Counts were in response to market hunting for game and feathers, which caused the declines of waterbirds and other species across their ranges. So instead of an annual Christmas hunt, participants were asked to go count what kinds and numbers of birds they could see. This became the longest running dataset for birds in the country, with now 120 years of data that have been used to inform studies of populations and distributions of birds across the globe. Last fall we featured a new climate

study, Survival by Degrees, which used these Christmas count data to help project the impacts of climate change. But Christmas counts are only one opportunity for community scientists to add to our knowledge, and thanks to eBird, a digital platform developed by the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, anyone anywhere in the world can contribute their sightings. eBird is growing every year, now with more than half a billion checklists. And eBird users can access data in real time and develop itineraries for travel, track rare and unusual sightings in their vicinity, or pull records for detailed analysis. In addition to being able to track your own records for your area, eBird is also used for other special efforts, like the Great Backyard Bird Count (held the second weekend in February each year) or partnering with states for Atlas projects. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and Audubon North Carolina and others are considering an Atlas project in 2021 that will tell us a lot more about how birds are distributed across our entire state. Another way to get involved with bird study and community science is the Breeding Bird Survey. This long standing study of breeding birds is a volunteer-based survey in which community scientists look for birds at discreet stops every half mile along a 25-mile route each year during the breeding season. This effort began about 50 years ago and is the go-to source for trend information about birds in the US. Audubon North Carolina works with volunteers participating in our Land Bird Stewards program to survey for birds on

private property where landowners implement bird friendly practices on their land, as well as conduct hundreds of regional surveys for Golden-winged Warblers annually across western North Carolina. If climate change is your concern and passion, Audubon’s Climate Watch program surveys during the winter and summer for targeted species to test assumptions about how climate is affecting distribution and abundance of species. Many other opportunities exist including Project Feeder Watch and Nest Watch from Cornell, annual Nightjar surveys for Whip-poor-wills and Chuck-wills-widows, and other species-specific surveys like the biennial Colonial Waterbird surveys across our coast happening this year. So with all of these opportunities, let’s make a commitment to contribute what we know about birds by participating in at least one community science opportunity this year! This summer is a great time to start using eBird, become a Land Bird Steward, or help with a survey. You will learn something, add to the conservation data available for managers and decision makers, and have the best excuse to go Birding! To learn more about these opportunities to help and have fun, visit Audubon North Carolina’s website at nc.audubon. org and click on the Ways to Help tab or email me at Curtis.smalling@audubon.org. Join the millions of folks across the globe using community science to inform our work! Curtis Smalling is Director of Conservation at Audubon North Carolina. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

“Zaloo’s has worked hard over the last 43 years to become one of the oldest and friendliest river outfitters in the area. We specialize in fun and exciting boat and tube trips for families, friends, and groups on one of the most historic and scenic North Carolina rivers.” —Zaloo’s Canoes, Kayaks & Tubes “The International Rafting Federation stated in 2019 that the Nolichucky River is one of the top ten rafting rivers in the entire world. Come join us for an experience you will never forget.” —Jeff Wahoo Stanley of Wahoo’s Adventures “Whitewater rafting is one of the best outdoor adventures and offers great exercise with paddling and an opportunity to enjoy nature without being too close to others. Come join us on a trip you will be talking about for a long time.” —Bill Leonard of High Mountain Expeditions

58 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Summer on the River By Randy Johnson

olks wanting a refreshing break from this summer’s pandemic problems can be happy about one thing—every medical pro from Dr. Fauci on down says outdoor activities are among the safest diversions we have during this ordeal. Local river businesses were engaged well ahead of summer in the process of monitoring evolving government guidelines and soliciting advice from experts familiar with watery recreation settings. The result is a wide range of policies and practices designed to ensure the safety and confidence of guests, whether you’re looking to raft, tube, kayak, or canoe our regional waterways. Paddling or floating the New River, or bashing through rapids on Wilson Creek and the Watauga or Nolichucky rivers, are all exciting in part because the average person isn’t an expert on river adventure. There can in fact be an element of risk. That said, the industry has done such an effective job of preparing for and reducing the risks that even families and kids can safely enjoy the thrills. Not every river outfitter or rafting company will have the same policies so it’s important to visit the website of your outfitter to familiarize yourself with what to expect. Reading your guide’s precaution list will answer most of your questions, but call ahead if you have particular concerns. Some companies are currently embracing safety options like reducing the number of trips they run, the number of rafts on a trip, or the number of people in a raft or on a bus. Single family rafts may also be offered. You may have options to reduce your time on the rafting shuttle, despite how fun and entertaining these junkets always are. Some outfitters are close to their rivers, but if your river is a drive from your meet up point, you may have the option of driving your own vehicle to the rafting site. Bus rides will also emphasize giving people plenty of room. Talk to any whitewater outfitter and you’ll quickly realize they have vast experience keeping their customers safe and the shift to COVID-19 concerns has been seriously addressed. As one company representative elegantly put it, “We’re all in this boat together.” For a list of local river outfitters, visit High Country Host’s website at https://highcountryhost.com/recreation/rafting-canoeing-tubing. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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Hiking Goes Viral Story and Photos By Randy Johnson

The summit of Rough Ridge will always have a few fellow folks to distance from but take the right way to the top—in this case, a quieter stretch of the Tanawha/Mountains-to-Sea Trail— and you'll miss most of the crowds. From left to right, MacRae and Attic Window peaks tower far above on the skyline of Grandfather Mountain.

ho would’ve believed last winter that we’d be locked away indoors for months, only to end up jockeying for position on trails suddenly overrun with people? This summer’s guided national park nature hikes will include rangers reminding us to keep six feet of social distance on the trail. That’s where we are. At one time or another lately, the most popular formal trails and even remote paths in national parks and forests were shut down. Luckily, as I write this, ding, an email press release from the national forests just arrived announcing the reopening of primitive trail hiking and camping in North Carolina. We may be out of the woods for now on closed parks, but it’s plausible that COVID-19 cases could spike again. That said, it may be best to continue avoiding the crowds. At the very least, choosing outof-the-way places to hike may help us rediscover why many people got into hiking in the first place. I don’t always urge people to avoid popular trails. In fact I’m chagrined to admit that my guidebooks to hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains, along the Blue Ridge Parkway, throughout North Carolina and elsewhere have probably made some hikes more crowded. Every time I drive by the Rough Ridge parking area on the

Grandfather Mountain portion of the Parkway I wince at the packed parking lot. I’ve been recommending that hike since before the Parkway even opened! I blame myself! You might as well too. Articles I wrote in the mid-‘80s for The State magazine (forerunner of today’s Our State) were the first to recommend hikes on what’s now a too popular part of the Parkway. Books followed. But don’t get the impression that my hiking guides or anyone else’s are full of popular hikes because there’s a shortage of “worthwild” places to go. Not so. Strategy, Strategy In fact, my own guides contain not just out-of-the-way hikes, but ways to turn popular places into almost private escapes by offering indirect or alternate ways to enjoy busy destinations. That’s not just a pitch for my guidebooks. What follows are some recommended strategies and places for losing the crowds. Numero uno: do not hike on the weekends if you can help it, or stick to off-seasons. Another idea: pick an alternate starting point. Following are a few examples of what I mean. To hike scenic High Country meadows on the Appalachian Trail (AT), many people start at busy Carver’s Gap near Roan

Mountain. Then they say “excuse me, excuse me” all the way up Round Bald. In Hiking North Carolina I suggest an “alternate start” for an AT hike on the Roan Highlands that’s reached via US 19E, a gorgeous drive through a less visited part of Avery County. Turn right 8.2 miles south of Elk Park on Roaring Creek Road, and successive rights lead to a dead end at the trailhead. This scenic hike hits the AT in historic Yellow Mountain Gap, where the patriot militia called the Overmountain Men crossed the ridge in 1780 on their way to victory in the Battle of Kings Mountain. Hike the AT north to the waving grassy balds of Little Hump and Hump Mountains. That access isn’t a secret, it’s in the book, so forge an “alternate alternative” just across the ridge in East Tennessee’s Carter County. The Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area is reached via TN 143 on the way to Carver’s Gap, just south of the town of Roan Mountain, which recently became an official AT “Trail Town” like Damascus, Virginia. From Hampton Creek Cove, climb the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail to Yellow Mountain Gap and the open balds. For another AT option, head farther toward Carver’s Gap, but turn right just past Roan Mountain State Park at Jack’s

get outside! 62 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Picking a popular spot like Roan Mountain will make solitude a hard commodity to find. Midweek is best, and so is off-season. But take the right trail and you'll still enjoy a quiet hike in and out, even if the rhodo is in bloom as it will be late in June.

Petrol & Provisions on Cove Creek Road. Continue on Hughes Gap Road to the AT at Hughes Gap. South, the AT makes a challenging climb to Roan that leaves the crowds behind. At the top, whether you go right off the AT to visit Roan’s legendary rhododendron gardens, or stay left on the AT to Roan High Knob Shelter, it’s about 5 miles one way, 10 miles round trip. Eighty percent of either hike is empty and you avoid the car crowd and entry fee at the rhododendron gardens. The peak bloom is around June 20. Go midweek! North on the AT from Hughes Gap, it’s also a quiet 3.3-mile hike for an overnighter at the Clyde Smith Shelter, a campsite with a Grandfather Mountain connection. It’s named for Smith, an AT pioneer and Blowing Rock boy scout leader who back in the 1940s blazed some of Grandfather Mountain’s early trails, placed artistic trail signs, and built the first HiBalsam backpacking shelter (which was rebuilt in 1981). A few more alternate start hikes: The Cascades is a noted, and popular, Blue Ridge Parkway interpretive waterfall walk north of Deep Gap at Milepost 271.9. But from nearby Tompkins Knob Overlook, at Milepost 272.5, you can take an inconspicuous connecting trail to the start of the Cascades Trail for a peaceful

out-and-back stroll. Or, continue to the Cascades and at least the first half of the hike will be less busy. I’ve recommended a similar stealth start that makes Rough Ridge quieter. Start at Wilson Creek Parking Area (Milepost 303.6) and the hike north to, and back from, the Rough Ridge summit on the Tanawha Trail is far less crowded than the climb up from the Rough Ridge parking area (Milepost 302.8). Caveat: This “secret start” is always less travelled but it’s in Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway so choose weekdays. If you have the right skills, and take a low impact approach, off-trail bushwhacks really ditch the crowds. I often urge adding a little side trip to a formal trail to find some solitude. You can also turn an out-and-back walk into a loop. Holloway Meadow Loop is an example. It starts from the new parking area on Holloway Mountain Road for the Tanawha Trail/Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Hike north on Tanawha, make a left at the Boone Fork Trail junction. Where Boone Fork bears right from a meadow at a marker post, stay straight under the rhododendron. This old road grade trail emerges from the woods to wander left through a stretch of meadow back to the Tanawha Trail you used to hike in. Turn right to retrace your steps back to your car CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

Here on Price Park's Holloway Meadow Loop, or on almost any High Country meadow trail, it's easy to wander away from the beaten path and find a private view of Grandfather Mountain. About the spot where this photo was taken, Margaret Morley's classic 1913 book The Carolina Mountains rhapsodized "there's always a cool breeze in the high world at the back of the Grandfather."

(about 2.6 miles). I’ve recommended that walk in a number of my books, including Grandfather Mountain: The History and Guide to an Appalachian Icon. A few years ago, the Parkway approved the circuit as a formal hike. Moses Cone Park’s refreshingly gradual carriage roads start at a few mobbed trailheads and parking areas—but study a

map (or hikes recommended in my books). There are other roadside trail access points that rarely see more than a hiker or two. I describe one hike in Cone Park this way: “a remote trailhead permits a lonely circuit in a normally busy Blue Ridge Parkway hiking area.” Despite that recommendation, on a recent Coronavirus weekend, I only saw two other hikers. Hike to Nowhere Maybe now’s the time to popularize a new, but old, concept—a hike to nowhere. Many formal trails along the Parkway in Cone and Price Parks pass tempting side trails, some are old roads, that explore little-known beauty spots. Old Johns River Road at Price Park Milepost 296.1 is nice. Another favorite of mine leaves the Mountains-to-Sea Trail on a route long used by early farmers. Along the way, a spectacular vista of Grandfather Mountain tops a secluded meadow. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail is another best kept secret path to nowhere. Remember that hike from Tompkins Knob above? The crowd is sure be heading north from the overlook, on to the Cascades, or nearby log structures. But look south, to

the right, across the grass, to that little hole in the woods where the Mountains-to-Sea Trail slips off to solitude. It’s a marvelously white piney walk, with a pine needle padded tread and gradual grade. Besides that spot, my Parkway trail guide includes a detailed mileage log of the entire road that lists the location by milepost of every overlook, entrance, exit, and more—including places where the Mountains-to-Sea Trail crosses the Parkway, as it does so many times north of Blowing Rock. Pick one of those places, park gently on the grass (which is permitted), and hike one way or the other. Maybe flip a coin. Take a hike to a quiet piece of nowhere and “shelter in peace.” Then turn back when you’ve forgotten all about “sheltering in place.” Post-Coronavirus, the safest place to hike may be somewhere no one else wants to be. But don’t feel bad about that. After all, solitude has long been touted as the ultimate reward for taking a walk in the woods. Randy Johnson’s fourth edition of the FalconGuide Hiking North Carolina publishes in June 2020, twenty-five years after the first. Visit www.randyjohnsonbooks.com or Mountain Dog and Friends pet boutique in Foscoe, NC.

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Bluffs,

esy National 1952, Court

Park Service

Paul and Elle

n Smith

Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation

The Bluffs Restaurant on the Parkway Reopens this Summer

Beloved dining spot returns, thanks to support from community

More time for Trails & Views Forever challenge for Blue Ridge Parkway Donor extends deadline as COVID-19 impacts fundraising

A favorite destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway is coming back to life 10 years after it closed. The Bluffs Restaurant at Doughton Park will reopen this summer to once again serve home-style cooking to locals and national park travelers alike. Located at milepost 241 near Sparta, N.C., The Bluffs is one of only four restaurants on the Parkway. The coffee shop shut down in 2010 after decades in business when an operator could not be secured to take over the concession contract with the National Park Service. As the years passed, reestablishing the restaurant became a top request from supporters of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. One of the many people who have been waiting for The Bluffs to reopen is Ellen Woodruff Smith, who worked at the restaurant from the day it opened on May 31, 1949, to the day it closed on November 1, 2010. For so many people who enjoy fond memories of Bluffs Coffee Shop, the stories go beyond the ham biscuits, pan-fried chicken, and berry cobbler. A big part of the charm was the welcoming staff. “I never met a stranger,” said Smith, who greeted tourists from all 50 states and loyal locals. In her 61 years working at the popular Parkway spot, she saw familiar faces come back time and again and children grow up each season, eventually returning with their own children. “I spoiled every youngin I could,” she confessed. In recent years, the building has undergone initial renovations, including replacement of the roof and remediation of mold that developed while the structure was unoccupied. The interior renovations underway include the installation of new kitchen equipment, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical to meet current safety standards. Careful consideration has been made to adhere to the original features following the guidelines of the National Park Service and N.C. Historic Preservation Office. The interior design will remain true to the historical nature of the building. Atriax Group of Hickory, N.C., is overseeing the design and construction. A combination of donations from individuals and community foundations, and support from the N.C. General Assembly and Appalachian Regional Commission are making the project possible through the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. “Members of the surrounding communities and people from across the country hold fond memories of their experiences at The Bluffs,” said Willa Mays, Chief Development Officer for the Foundation. “We are honored to play a role in bringing this special place back to life for all the people who have championed its return over the past 10 years.” For more information or to make a donation to support the renovations, visit BRPFoundation.org/bluffs.

Those who love the Blue Ridge Parkway have more time to protect its recreation spaces through the Trails & Views Forever challenge. In late 2019, an anonymous donor offered a challenge grant of $300,000 to kick off the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s initiative to repair trails, picnic areas, campgrounds, and overlooks. Recognizing that donations have slowed during the COVID-19 crisis, the donor is extending the deadline to meet this all-or-nothing challenge to Sept. 30, 2020. “No matter the size, every gift will provide care for Parkway recreation areas in strategic and sustainable ways,” explained Carolyn Ward, CEO of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. “We are grateful that this match will allow donors’ contributions to go even further to care for the places they love to hike, take in mountain views, picnic with family and friends, and camp under the stars.” TRAILS & VIEWS FOREVER is a new initiative to restore the Parkway’s recreational assets, which are deteriorating due to insufficient funding for maintenance and improvements. Working with the National Park Service, the Foundation is developing a comprehensive plan to restore and care for trails, picnic areas, campgrounds, and overlooks along the 469-mile motor road. The initiative will: • Upgrade many of the 369 miles of trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway • Clear overlooks to restore iconic views • Rehabilitate picnic areas, campgrounds and accompanying restrooms • Enhance educational resources, including informational panels/ signs at overlooks and along trails • Engage volunteers and youth conservation crews to complete the work in the field Protecting natural resources and improving experiences for visitors are cornerstones of the Foundation’s mission. Because the outdoor recreation areas along the Parkway are in a serious state of decline, the Trails & Views Forever initiative’s overall goal is $3 million to be spent over 5 to 10 years for restoration and enhancements. Donors who give $1,000 or more will receive a limited edition patch, and their names will be included on acknowledgement signs at key locations on the Parkway. Gifts can be made at TrailsandViews.org. About the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation Founded in 1997, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is the primary fundraising partner, 501(c)(3), for the Blue Ridge Parkway, providing support for initiatives along the 469-mile route, including historical and cultural preservation, environmental protection, visitor amenities, and education and outreach. The Foundation has offices in Asheville and Winston-Salem, N.C. For more information, visit BRPFoundation.org. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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66 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

PHOTO BY TODD BUSH

Locals and Visitors Find Relief on Mountain Courses Thankfully, as Americans take steps to stem the spread of the world-changing coronavirus, men, women, and children are finding sanctuary on the golf course. Since the very beginning of the crisis, most states have deemed the golf industry as essential to the well-being of its citizens. For thousands in the High Country, the golf course has proved to be a haven of peace and normalcy.

Public Courses Boone Golf Club—Boone, NC Tom Adams, PGA Architect Ellis Maples, Revision Rick Robbins ‘Must play’ Mountain Standard in 61st season. Tom’s big brother Sam hanging out here to add to local color. Casa Rustica’s Rick Pedroni in the kitchen. 828-264-8760 or www.boonegolfclub.com Mountain Glen—Newland, NC David Burleson, Golf Director Architect George Cobb A transition year not without sadness. For the first time in almost 50 years, Sam Foster will not welcome players to this wonderful public venue in Avery County. And longtime teaching pro John Rimmer passed away early spring. Since 1965 folks have grown use to Sam in the pro shop. Mr. Rimmer, former Golf Digest Teaching Advisory member and onetime Blowing Rock Country Club head professional, will be missed on the tee. David Burleson keeps things familiar at this mountain classic. Everything you could want in your favorite public course. 828-733-5804 Mountainglengolfclub.com Sugar Mountain Golf Club—Sugar Mountain Tom McAuliffe, Golf Director Architect Frank Duane Dynamite par 64. Play specials. Great value — fine conditions. A little bit better every year and that says a lot. 828-898-6464 www.seesugar.com

Linville Falls Golf Club Jim Kelechi-PGA Architect Lee Trevino/Revisions Lloyd Clifton/ Bruce Devlin / Head pro and owner Kelechi determined to make this fine layout all it can be. Good value and convenient location. New Club Car fleet features Greg Norman Shark Experience. Daily hole-in-one opportunity for cash at No. 12. Easy access Hwy. 221 S. below Linville Falls. 828-756-4653 https://linvillefallsgolfclub.com/ Mt. Mitchell Golf Club—Burnsville, NC Jim Floyd, Golf Director Architect Fred Hawtree Spectacular property just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Hwy. 80 to Burnsville. Group getaway lodging specialists. For the day or the week. Toe River trout fishing, food and beverage excellent. 828-675-5454 www.mountmitchellgolf.com Willow Valley—Boone, NC Architect Tom Jackson-nine holes The Little Green Monster is a fine par three.. 828-963-6865 Mountain Aire Golf Club—West Jefferson, NC Architect/Committee, Revisions Dennis Lehmann Popular Ashe County stop, good range, good course, good folks in the pro shop. Philip Shepherd carrying bright torch in Hagel family tradition. 336-877-4716 www.Mountainaire.com Grassy Creek Golf Club—Spruce Pine, NC Bruce Leverette, PGA Architect/Committee Visit the Mitchell County mainstay and find out what all the locals love about Grassy Creek. What golf is all about. 828-765-7436 www.grassycreek.com

Clubs w/lodging access to golf Linville Golf Club—Linville, NC Tom Dale, PGA Architect Donald Ross—Revisions Robert Trent Jones, Sr.—Bobby Weed A private property where guests at the timeless Eseeola Lodge enjoy access to golf and amenities. For many who know her, their favorite place on Planet Earth. 828-733-4311 www.eseeola.com Hound Ears Club—Blowing Rock, NC Peter Rucker, PGA Architect George Cobb / Revisions Tom Jackson

Private club with golf available through rental with Inn Rooms & Home Rentals. A very special and playable golf course. New membership opportunities in the gorgeous Watauga River Valley. 828-963-4301 www.houndears.com Beech Mountain Club—Beech Mountain, NC John Carrin, PGA Architect Willard Byrd Diverse qualified lodging. Stay and Play packages more affordable than ever at Eastern America’s Highest Town. 828-387-4208 ext. 201 www.beechmtnclub.org Jefferson Landing Country Club & Resort— Jefferson, NC Dean Spainhour, PGA Architect Larry Nelson/Dennis Lehmann Course access for members and on-site lodgers—great golf group getaway. Limited public play space available at this beautiful Ashe County classic. Clubhouse dining. 1-800-292-6274 www.visitjeffersonlanding.com Linville Land Harbor, Linville Michael Hayes, Golf Operations manager Architects Tom Jackson—(A-9 Ernie Hayes) Long-time private enclave between Linville and Pineola opening to public play with stay and play offerings. Fabulous putting surfaces. 828-733-8325 www.linvillelandharbor.com

Private Clubs/Members / Guests Only Grandfather Golf & Country Club—Linville, NC Chip King, PGA Architect Ellis Maples 828-898-7533 Blowing Rock Country Club—Blowing Rock, NC Wayne Smith, PGA Architect Donald Ross, Seth Raynor Revisions Tom Jackson and more recently by Ross specialist Kris Spence a big hit. 828-295-3171 Elk River Club—Banner Elk, NC Dave Ambrose, PGA Architect Jack Nicklaus/Bob Cupp 828-898-9773 Linville Ridge Club—Linville, NC Kurt Thompson, PGA Architect George Cobb / Revisions Bobby Weed 828-898-5151 Diamond Creek—Banner Elk, NC Joe Humston, PGA / Architect Tom Fazio 828-898-1800

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HISTORY ON A STICK

Stonemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Raid

By Michael C. Hardy

It seems that as we get further away from events, the less likely we tend to remember them. The Civil War ended 155 years ago this year. Many of the visitors who pass along King Street probably do not realize that one of the ending actions of the war unfolded right beneath their feet. The war had been hard on Watauga and the surrounding counties. Hundreds had marched away to fight for the Confederacy; a handful had sided with the Union, while scores more fought a guerrilla war in the area, pitting neighbor against neighbor. Into this stepped Maj. Gen. George Stoneman. In late March 1865, he led regular Union soldiers on a raid through western North Carolina and up into Virginia. The first action of the raid on March 28 was a skirmish right through the streets of Boone. Several Watauga County Home Guards were killed and wounded while a couple of the Federals were wounded. Stonemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s command, numbering 6,000, soon moved on. They were wrecking the railroads further east, trying to keep the remnants of the Confederate armies in Virginia and North Carolina from linking up with each other. A few days later, a new Federal brigade arrived. While Stonemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s command were regular soldiers, the new force, commanded by Col. George W. Kirk, was composed of men from the area, mostly deserters and draft dodgers who crossed the mountains, enlisted, and were then given license to return to North Carolina and rob and plunder their neighbors. Kirkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forces built five forts in Watauga County: in Boone, Deep Gap, Aho Gap, Blowing Rock, and on the Meat Camp Road (the latter could have been in present-day Mountain City, Tennessee). From these bases, Kirkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s men set out into the surrounding counties. One resident recalled that her house was robbed eighteen times in fourteen days. In Caldwell County, a local slave was killed when he refused to disclose the location of the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hidden valuables. Five of Kirkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s command died of disease while in the area. Three of them are buried in the Boone City Cemetery, not far from one of the local home guardsmen who was killed during the initial raid. On April 23, Kirk was ordered to move his troopers to Asheville, and he set out for his new assignment. There are three markers in Watauga County memorializing Stonemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Raid. The marker on King Street, by the courthouse, and the marker in Blowing Rock, were erected in 1940. The third marker, on US 421 in Deep Gap, was erected in 1959. There are also markers in Caldwell and Wilkes counties. Robert E. Lee once said that â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is well that war is so terrible, or we should grow too fond of it.â&#x20AC;? For those living in western North Carolina, the Civil War was never an experience of which they could grow fond.

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A Four-Decade Tradition 137 Years in the Making

n April 30, 2020 a delightful and heartfelt video popped up on social media marking the 40th Anniversary of that fateful day back in 1980 when Faye and John Cooper drove a U-Haul truck containing their life’s belongings to the High Country, accompanied by their two children and a family vehicle in tow. They stopped in front of the abandoned Mast Store in Valle Crucis, opened the door to the feed room, and walked inside a building that had stood vacant for over two and a half years. Faye turned to her husband and said, “What have we done?” before bursting into tears at the reality of the moment. Forty years later, Mast General Store has eleven locations in four different states and provides a livelihood for 516 people, including 343 associates here in the High Country. In 1995, they became an employee-owned company and proudly count 253 current “Mast Family” members as owners. Brenda Binning Lowman, former Mast Training and Event Coordinator, said, “From the first day the Mast General Store re-opened with Faye and John as owners, the foundation for a successful business was set. Everyone who walked through

72 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

those front doors, staff or guest, young or old, was treated with respect and greeted with a smile. The tenets of grace, humility, kindness, and gratefulness coupled with hard work are ever present today. What a fine legacy!” Sheri Moretz’s official title at Mast Store is “Storyteller,” but she is a certified Travel Marketing Professional (TMP), and a fount of knowledge, information, trivia, and fun facts about Mast General Store. Efforts to stump her were unsuccessful. What’s the most popular candy? “Caramel Bullseyes, with just under 23,000 pounds sold in 2019.” Best-selling apparel item? “For ten years in a row, it’s the Desert Pucker men’s shirt from Royal Robbins.” Favorite gift of shoppers? “The Handwarmer Mugs; we’ve sold more than 110,000 of this out-of-the-box design in the last decade.” More importantly, Moretz has become the unofficial historian for the Mast General Store, and is the primary author of all the wonderfully entertaining and lovingly detailed history that appears on the company’s website, mastgeneralstore.com. Following is an abbreviated version of the Mast story:

By Keith Martin

The original location was built by Henry Taylor and opened as the Taylor General Store in 1883, but it wasn’t long before he had to expand. In 1897, he sold half interest in the venture to William Wellington (W.W.) Mast, a member of another pioneer family in the Valle. The store was known as the Taylor and Mast General Store up until 1913, when the remaining half of the enterprise was purchased by W. W. Mast. From then on, the sign over the door has always had Mast in its name. For the next sixty years, the store was owned and operated by the Mast Family. During that time, W. W. and his family tried to carry everything their neighbors needed... from plow points to cloth and cradles to caskets, which led to the popular saying, “If you can’t buy it here, you don’t need it.” In 1930, W. W. signed a contract with Standard Oil in New Jersey to sell gasoline at the store. By the 1970s, the Mast Store was one of the company’s longest-term retailers. To this day, the Esso sign and gas pumps adorn the front of the original building. The store was sold by the Mast Family in 1973, around the time that the site was

The Mast General Store

named to the National Register of Historic Places as “one of the finest remaining examples of an old country general store.” In November of 1977, the doors were closed, presumably just for the winter season with hopes of reopening the following April. However, those plans did not pan out. The Coopers purchased the Mast Store and reopened it in June of 1980, little more than two months after they arrived in the High Country. Since that time the store had regained its reputation as “the store that has everything.” And the rest, as they say, is history. Their daughter Lisa Cooper currently serves as president of Mast General Store, assuming the position when her parents semi-retired in 2016. When asked to reflect upon the family business, Lisa said, “I grew up from behind the counter in the front room at the ‘Original’ Mast Store. That perspective has helped me tremendously in being able to lead the company forward. I watched; I learned; I listened. The bar set by my parents is very high, and together, with a great team, we strive to continue to raise that bar.” In June 2020, Lisa will lead the company in dedicating their newest venue, and

first in Virginia, when their Roanoke store opens this summer. She notes another expansion in Valle Crucis: “Rivercross Made in USA is Mast Store’s little sister with products that are 100% made in the United States.” While fully-owned and supported by the Mast General Store, Lisa proudly calls it, “my project.” She also inherited her parents’ love of the environment, exemplified in her decision to remove all drinks in plastic bottles from store shelves. As a result, Mast Store has already kept more than 20,000 plastic bottles out of the waste stream. Most recently, Lisa has appeared in a hilarious series of online videos during the COVID-19 pandemic as a means of keeping in touch with (and entertaining) the legions of Mast Store customers and fans. Favorites include “socially-distant candy shopping” with her daughter, Addison, and “choosing a hat to cover your roots,” all while providing updates of the carefully planned and thoughtfully implemented reopening of each store as stay-at-home restrictions were lifted on a phased basis in each state where stores are located. Without exception, every person interviewed for this article mentioned the

generosity of both the Cooper family and Mast Store with the Valle Crucis Community Park as the most frequently cited example, followed by the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country. However, those two projects merely scratch the surface of their altruism. It is estimated that their charitable giving supports over 100 non-profit organizations on an annual basis. In addition, all three Coopers serve on non-profit boards and are active in various civic organizations, a culture of service modeled by employees at every store. While reflecting on the occasion of their 40th Anniversary, the Coopers were asked about points of pride during their remarkable tenure. Faye answered, “We are proud of our immediate family and we are proud of our Mast family, those who earn their livelihood within the walls of Mast General Store’s locations. We are proud of the business that these two families together have built, the impact they have been able to make in their communities in areas of human services, arts, education, and environmental causes by supporting noncontinued... CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

“It’s difficult to identify an area of community life in the High Country that has not been positively impacted by Mast General Store’s presence and philanthropic spirit. They were among the first group of businesses to become corporate sponsors for An Appalachian Summer Festival, and led the way for other enlightened business owners to embrace university arts programming and nurture its growth. The company’s devotion and long-standing support for the arts has been profoundly meaningful and transformational for our community.” ~ Denise Ringler Director of Arts Engagement and Cultural Resources Appalachian State University

profits collectively and individually. We are thankful for our loyal customers who have provided us opportunities to serve in business and volunteer roles. We are thankful for parents who helped guide us into becoming concerned and caring citizens.” Echoing his wife’s sentiments, John added, “We are most proud of the staff that has been the engine that has accomplished so much for our business and our communities.” On a personal note, John said, “We are very proud of our community that got behind the recent restoration, rehabilitation, and reopening of the historic Appalachian Theatre,” an eight-year, ten-million-dollar effort that involved over 500 volunteers and thousands of generous donors. John spearheaded the entire project as founding chair of the theatre’s board of trustees, a position he has held since the organizational meeting in 2011. The final question asked of the Coopers was about their legacy, to which Faye replied, “The Mast Store as it is today is our business legacy, and our personal legacy is

74 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

intertwined with it. The community should know that our philanthropic efforts began by seeing a need and helping to fulfill it, beginning with our thinking that someone should save this old store in the mountains of North Carolina.” John said, “We would like our legacy to be that we were helpful in bringing back and perpetuating an important and historic institution, the Mast General Store. Our hope is that it will continue to be appreciated for its emphasis on excellence in customer service, caring support of our staff, and giving back to the communities it serves.” Fittingly, the last word in this story goes to current Mast Store President Lisa Cooper. “When someone asks me about the future, I tell them to look at our past. We honor the traditions that my parents embraced and carry them forward every day. It is in our DNA to do the right thing in our communities. That starts with our personal service statement: ‘Do your personal best. Have fun and share it!’”

“The Mast General Store has long been a lighthouse for our community: a beacon for what it means to best care for our community and nurture our neighbors. Their team generously shares their time with various non-profit agencies, invests in the wellness of our people, and continues to prioritize deep rooted community engagement. The leadership they exemplify shines as a bright example to us all.”

~ Elizabeth Young, Executive Director, Hunger and Health Coalition

“What strikes me about John and Faye Cooper is their complete lack of ego. They remember your name, always have smiling faces, time to talk to you, and Faye writes personal notes after seeing a story in the media. Their deep love for community can clearly be seen in the character of Mast General Store. They set the standard for corporate philanthropy; not only do they give, they give generously to reinvest in our community, and their support is unparalleled.”

~ Jennifer Warren, Executive Director, Western Youth Network, Inc.

VALLE CRUCIS, 28691

175-Year-Old Post Office “Keeps Us On The Map!” By Keith Martin A single-page letter, dated October 1980, to John Cooper from “Community Special Representatives” carried the signatures of many longtime residents of Valle Crucis, prominent citizens whose family names are synonymous with the region: Mast, Olsen, Shull, Taylor, and Tester, among others. The authors reinforced “how much the Valle Crucis Post Office meant to the people of the Valley and the surrounding area… since the turn of the century,” stating that “the community suffered a major loss when it was so abruptly closed two years ago. Repeated effort was made by various citizens to get it reopened, but to no avail,” the letter read, before saying to the Coopers, “through your interest and work, you accomplished what we were not able to do.” The first Valle Crucis Post Office opened 175 years ago on August 23, 1845 with the Reverend William Thurston serving as the first postmaster, followed by Deacon William West Skiles. There are varying accounts as to its original location, but some recollect that it was at what is now the Valle Crucis Conference Center. It relocated in 1857 to various properties owned by the Taylor family, including the current site of Over Yonder restaurant. Noted author I. Harding Hughes, in his impeccably researched book, “Valle Crucis: A History of an Uncommon Place,” cites official records of the Episcopal Church showing St. John’s Church as the location of the Valle Crucis post office from 1885 to 1913, better known then by locals by the nickname “St. Jude,” a dateline Hughes says was used several times in reporting by the Watauga Democrat. We do know, however, that the post office found a more permanent home in 1928 at the present day site of the Mast Store Annex. It remained there until Sunday, June 30, 1963 when longtime postmaster R. Aubyn Farthing reached the federally-mandated retirement age of 70 and the Valle Crucis Post Office was “discontinued,” according to the National Archives and Records Service. 92 year-old Mary Hazel Farthing Mast (who, coincidentally, appeared on the cover of the very first edition of Carolina Mountain Life in May 1997) is the daughter of R. Aubyn Farthing and the widow of Howard “H” Mast, grandson of W.W. Mast. According to her, and in accounts by her late husband, the same Sunday that her father officially retired, her husband and several workers went to the Annex with a three-quarter ton truck and enough people to pry the massive post office station off the floor. They loaded it in the bed of the truck, and covered the boxes so the mail wouldn’t fly out during the move a short distance down the road to the Original Mast Store, where local residents could begin picking up their mail on Monday, July 1, 1963. For the next 14 years, the mail delivery was served out of the Boone post office until July 1, 1977 when the Valle Crucis Post Office was once again recognized as an independent rural station. Unfortunately, when the Mast Store closed that fall, so did the post office. Mast historian Sheri Moretz said that while Faye and John were working on reopening the store in 1980, a frequent request from local residents was to reopen the post office, citing its importance to small rural communities, “because it helps maintain our identity, and literally keeps us on the map.” Faye and John applied to the U.S. Postal Service to re-open the Valle Crucis Post Office, but their application was denied because they offered to run it for a one dollar per year contract, and the postmaster thought it was a joke. There is a rumor that Morganton native Sam Ervin, United States Senator from North Carolina, heard about the Coopers and their desire to reopen the post office in their store. The story goes that “Senator Sam” made some calls and, magically, the application was approved. Reopening on October 4, 1980, the current Valle Crucis Post Office (with about 185 postal boxes) operates as a contract station of the Banner Elk Post Office and is the only way you can get a true “Valle Crucis, 28691” address; the Original Mast Store is located at 3565 Highway 194 South in Sugar Grove, NC, while the Mast Annex—just 500 yards away on Broadstone Road—has a Banner Elk mailing address. As stated by the “Community Special Representatives” to the Coopers in 1980, “We feel a real debt of gratitude to you… we realize it requires much work and we know you offered to take it without any financial remuneration.” The letter concluded, “With many thanks for your continued interest in the welfare of our community and for your valuable support.” Thank you, John, Faye, Lisa, and Team Mast. You make the High Country a better place. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

Helm Changes at the Appalachian Theatre

Virtual Tours from the Banner House Museum

The Banner House Museum will be engaging visitors with local history virtually this season. A phone app walking tour of downtown Banner Elk debuted on June 6, and a local history organization collaboration showcasing High Country Civil War sites will be unveiled later in the season. Visit BannerHouseMuseum.org for updates and links to the tours.

Congratulations to John Cooper, Chairman of Mast General Store, on his successful tenure as chair of the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (ATHC) in Boone. His nine-year reign began in December 2011 with the organizational meeting of the “Save the Appalachian Theatre Task Force” and continued when the group incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 2012. Cooper led an eight-year, ten-milliondollar campaign involving over 500 volunteers and thousands of individual donors to restore the art deco 1938 theatre back to its former glory. While citing it as a bittersweet moment, Cooper said “I look forward to continuing as a trustee for many years to come.”

App State CAREs about Bees

Many of the pollinators—including bees (the most common managed pollinator), butterflies, birds, moths and some animals, such as bats—are in decline or facing extinction, which in turn endangers the food supply. Appalachian State University’s Center for Analytics Research and Education (CARE) is launching a global initiative to count the world’s bee and other pollinator population. The data will help researchers glean insights such as types of pollinators, where the pollinators live and the types of flowers or plants that attract pollinators. Learn more about these efforts at https://care. appstate.edu/.

Kids in Parks - eAdventures

The Kids in Parks program has added e-Adventures to its long list of naturebased TRACK Trail adventures. When children and families can’t be at a designated “TRACK Trails” park, these online adventures let kids complete activities in any green space near their home and register their adventures to earn prizes. Learn more at KidsinParks.com.

78 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

John Cooper | Keith Martin Kudos as well to Keith Martin for being elected ATHC Chair beginning in July. With a career in the not-for-profit sector that spans nearly 450 productions over 40 years, CML is pleased that Keith is Cultural Arts Editor and author of 125 articles in this publication since fall 2013, an average of eighteen stories per year. He is the Distinguished Professor of Theatre at Appalachian State University and has served as vice chair of the ATHC since its inception. When asked about his new role with the ATHC, Keith quipped, “It’s a good thing Mast Store sells footwear, because I have some mighty big shoes to fill following in the footsteps of my longtime friend and colleague, John Cooper.”

Spice & Tea Exchange Now in West Jefferson

The Spice & Tea Exchange has a new location, in addition to their store on Main Street in Blowing Rock. They offer a variety of fine spices, handcrafted seasonings, loose-leaf teas, salts, sugars, gifts, and more. Whether you’re new to the culinary scene, own your own food service business, or are simply looking to add a bit of spice to your life, the store’s

friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect menu additions. “We’re known for our over 85 handcrafted seasonings, which we hand-mix in store daily.” For directions and store hours, visit https://www.spiceandtea. com/west-jefferson.

Grillin and Chillin at Sugar Mountain

Music is being made this summer at Sugar Mountain! The resorts annual Grillin & Chillin Concert and Dinner Series begins in July and continues through early September. All performances will be held at Sugar Mountain’s Golf and Tennis Club House Deck. Food and drinks will be available before and during each show, with music playing from 6 to 9 p.m. The lineup includes: • 7/1 – The Harris Brothers • 7/8 – The Rockabillys • 7/15 – Smokin Joe Randolph Band • 7/22 – The Collective • 7/29 – Soul Benefactor • 8/5 – JJ Hipps & The Hideaway • 8/12 – The Marsha Morgan Band/ Shades of Shag at Sugar • 8/19 – Smokin Joe Randolph Band • 8/26 – Foscoe Four • 9/2 – The Rockabillys • 9/7 – Tanya & The Roadrunnerz Find out more at https://seesugar.com/ summer-concerts/.l

Annual Fairy Day at Daniel Boone Native Gardens

Each year the fairies come out at the gardens, and in 2020 they plan to arrive on July 11 from 12-4 p.m. This free event features activities for children and families. Participants are encouraged to wear fairy costumes and bring a picnic to the gardens. Wander the Gardens and meet “real life fairies.” The event offers face painting and other fun activities at a nominal fee. Opened in 1963, the mission of the gardens is to protect and conserve native plants in addition to educating visitors

about native plants of North Carolina. The Gardens are located at 651 Horn in the West Drive, Boone, NC. Learn more about Fairy Day and all the summer happenings at the Gardens at www.DanielBooneNativeGardens.org.

Camp Store” won’t be able to greet you at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games this year, you can visit their store in Newland, NC, at 150 Linville Street. Visit their Facebook page for more information.

The Best of Beech

Come enjoy the best of Beech Mountain Resort this summer! Enjoy scenic lift rides, mountain biking, hiking and disc golf. At the 5506’ Skybar, patrons can stop by for drinks, snacks, outdoor seating, and the amazing mountaintop views (while respecting social distancing protocols). Enhanced sanitation practices and other safety measures will be implemented to follow state and local health guidelines. Visit www.beechmountainresort.com for updates on upcoming events.

Mask or No Mask?

Many businesses in the High Country require or strongly advise that masks be worn when visiting their establishments this summer. One thing health professionals know for sure is that masks help against the spread of the coronavirus, which is especially important as people begin to travel more widely and frequently. Remember than when everyone wears a mask—both COVID-19 carriers AND healthy people—the chance of transmission is just 1.5%.

Pack Rats Celebrates 25th Anniversary!

Pack Rats of Newland—celebrating a quarter of a century in business—is more than a military surplus store or thrift store. They carry a little bit of everything, from camping gear and sporting goods to antiques and collectibles. You never know what you might find! While the popular “Pack Rats

Center

Day Camps at Holston Camp & Retreat Center

Good news for parents! Day camps will be running now through August at Holston Presbytery Camp and Retreat Center. Since 1959, Holston has hosted summer camps in North Carolina for kids seeking refuge from the seasonal heat and a sanctuary for spiritual, mental, and physical growth. Each camp session runs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A light breakfast, lunch and a mid-afternoon snack is served each day. Children in rising grades 1 through 8 are encouraged to register. “We have carefully considered the CDC guidelines in combination with American Camp Association’s recommendations for camps.” Learn more and register at https://holstoncenter.org.

Ticket to Retirement

Best wishes to Sarah Heustess on her retirement after 28 years as Director of Sales and Patron Relations at Appalachian State University. She was featured in our summer 2016 issue in the article “Front and Center, But Not Onstage.” Sarah managed ticket sales for An Appalachian Summer Festival, Schaefer Center Presents, APPlause! K-12 Performing Arts Series, the Department of Theatre and Dance, and the Hayes School of Music. She cultivated meaningful relationships with audience members, university donors, and community arts supporters for decades, getting to know them, taking care of their ticketing needs, and serving as a welcoming presence for all who entered each facility.

Up Close with the Alpacas

Apple Hill Farm, a mountain-top Alpaca farm and store in Banner Elk, is open and welcoming small family groups for guided walking tours. Tours are by reservation only, and available Fridays from 12 - 3 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “We are closely following CDC and NC guidelines for safety and are excited to reopen the gates at Apple Hill Farm.” Face masks are required for all visitors and tour groups will be limited to nine people. Learn more and book your tour at https://applehillfarmnc.com/visit-applehill-farm/.

The Old Greer House – a Place for Youth

The Old Greer House is tucked away amongst some of the most beautiful mountains in the world in the town of Banner Elk, NC. Built as a home for the Greer family and then home to the Kimmel family, the old farm house now welcomes youth groups to get away to the mountains and “draw closer to God.” The Old Greer House is priced to be affordable and is close to all the adventures the High Country has to offer, including ziplines, horseback riding, tubing, climbing, hiking, paddling, kite flying, gem mining and more. Learn more at www.theoldgreerhouse.com.

Samaritan’s Purse Reaches Far and Wide During Pandemic

Samaritan’s Purse, headquartered in Boone, NC has made massive commitments from the very beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. They deployed Emergency Field Hospitals to treat patients in New York City and Italy. Their respiratory care unit operated in Central Park from April 1 to May 5. In partnership with the Mount Sinai Health System, they treated more than 300 coronavirus patients in New York, including 190 at the park site. And each of their many worldwide field and affiliate offices, including here in the High Country, mobilized in support of the global pandemic. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

“read all a b out it!”

due to COVID-19, you can still support the organization and help ensure they can continue their important work for many years to come. To learn more about Spirit Ride and get updates on all their upcoming events, visit their website at www.SpiritRideNC.org. -contributed by Pan McCaslin

Supporting Spirit Ride

The Spirit Ride campus, located between Valle Crucis and Banner Elk in Matney, is the perfect setting for families seeking a reprieve from the stress that can often be a part of raising a child with special health concerns. Financial strain, however, is one type of stress that parents do not have to consider during their time at Spirit Ride. No fees of any type are ever charged to accepted clients. Bringing over ten years of experience in special education and extensive training as a board-certified equine interaction professional, Patty Adams serves as SRTC’s Executive Director and Head Instructor and recently gave a TED Talk on the benefits of Therapeutic Riding. She and her husband, Craig, Spirit Ride CEO, believe that any child who desires to achieve his or her full potential by working with an equine partner should receive private instruction individually tailored for their specific needs. “A large part of Spirit Ride’s success is due to great working relationships with local educators, pediatricians, occupational therapists, and mental health counselors,” stated Adams. “They refer clients to us who they feel would most benefit from the opportunity to experience equine-assisted activities.” Another key component to success for the children is family involvement. Missy Thomas, who has served as a volunteer, then as a mother and now as an instructor, shared, “Spirit Ride is such a loving, supportive community. The volunteers get as much as the kids do out of the experience. The parents are very supportive of each other; we listen without judgment.” While the organization’s biggest fundraising event of the year—the Third Annual Kentucky Derby—was cancelled

78 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

The 33rd Annual Symphony by the Lake at Chetola Rescheduled for August 22nd A Virtual Escape to Banner Elk

The Banner Elk TDA (Tourism Development Authority) collaborated with High Country photographer, Todd Bush, to create an inspirational video entitled A Virtual Escape to Banner Elk depicting scenes of the community and surrounding iconic sites like Grandfather Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway. With combined still photographs and videos taken by Bush, as well as one of his original music compositions, the video was designed to give a taste of the Banner Elk experience to the thousands of visitors and seasonal residents who were initially quarantined away from the area due to COVID-19. Featured on two Facebook pages and the Banner Elk YouTube channel, the video had achieved over 23,000 views as of late April. You’ll find a link to the video at our website: http://CMLmagazine.online. –contributed by Steve York

The Symphony by the Lake at Chetola has been postponed from the traditional fourth Friday in July to Saturday, August 22, 2020. This year’s program will feature musical selections from previous Symphony by the Lake performances and will be comprised of the “best of the best.” “After careful consideration of all the factors, we feel that the Symphony would be a great path forward for the community as so many consider this event to be the social centerpiece of Blowing Rock’s summer,” said Charles Hardin, President/ CEO of the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. “While some more vulnerable residents and visitors will not be in attendance, we feel that there will be many who will participate in a socially distanced manner. Many people are hoping to see some normalcy in their lives and the Chamber is attempting to offer this by hosting Symphony by the Lake and other Chamber sponsored events.” Some changes to the event will be made to ensure the safety of patrons and volunteers. Shuttles to Chetola from off-site parking lots will not be available. Ticket holders will be allowed to park at Tanger Outlets and public parking areas in Blowing Rock and walk to an event entrance. Parking passes are available for purchase for the Snyder Lot inside Chetola. General Admission tickets are $40 in advance and are available online at SymphonybytheLake.com. If you’ve already purchased tickets for the event, they will automatically transfer to Saturday, August 22. For questions regarding your ticket order, please call 828-295-7851.

COMMUNITY & LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS Symphony by the Lake at Chetola is organized by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce and presented by The Kennedy – Herterich Foundation and Hendrick Luxury Group.

resources. Note: The Observatory resumed regular Community Viewing nights in June. Please check the website at www.Mayland. edu/observatory for a full calendar of this season’s public offerings.

Earth-to-Sky Park Projects at Mayland

Summer Sipping: Beattie’s Vodka

The Bare Dark Sky Observatory at the Mayland Earth-to-Sky Park in Yancey County opened in 2017, and in 2020 the Park continues to undergo some big changes. In addition to a landscaping overhaul, eight telescope viewing stations are being added around the Observatory, allowing visitors and groups to set up their own telescopes and participate in Star Parties. The walking path to the Observatory is also being enhanced with stone steps and gravel pathways lined with “moon gardens,” which contain plants and flowers that show up well in the moonlight. The Glenn and Carol Arthur Planetarium also opens this summer, with 64 seats and a state-of-the-art projection system housed in a geodesic dome. The Planetarium will offer traditional astronomy shows, laser light shows, and STEM education shows. It will be open to the public, and also used as a classroom for Mayland Community College programs. In May 2021, Matthew Wiley will be painting a bee mural on the exterior of the Planetarium as part of his For the Good of the Hive project (www. https://www. thegoodofthehive.com/). The Earth to Sky Park’s mission is to educate visitors on all aspects of the environment, from the earth to the sky, and learn how best to protect these rich

It’s all about the Potato. The Beattie family has always believed that the simple things in life are the most important. That reaching for success without an honest day’s work is like trying to harvest where you haven’t planted. That it isn’t about working ‘til it’s time to punch out, it’s about working ‘til the job gets done. It’s a grind, and you have to love it. As fifth generation potato farmers, today’s Beattie family is hard at work cultivating success as Beattie’s Distillers, maker of “farm-crafted” potato vodka at their fully sustainable family farm and distillery… And they are loving every minute of it. “It all started with our great-grandfather Roland Beattie, who came to Canada from Scotland in 1876,” says Ken Beattie, CEO. “From the very beginning, he wanted his family to have a strong work ethic, discipline and a responsibility to look after the community. It’s what we know, so that’s how we do things around here.” In the 1970s, the family business grew from cultivating potatoes to also processing them for chip suppliers, which led to some big deals. “At one time, we held the largest contract in Canada. Our potato chips were everywhere, we’re pretty proud of that,” says Beattie. Fast forward to 2013, when the

company decided to start making its own premium vodka using their Dakota Pearl potatoes and the latest in distilling technology. Then in 2018, the International Spirits Competition voted Beattie’s vodka the World’s Best Vodka. They continued their success in 2019 winning Gold for Best Artisan Spirit. “When we started making our own premium spirits, we knew they had to be something we would be proud to put the ‘Beattie’ family name on,” shares Beattie. “That meant controlling every step of the process from start to finish; that’s why we put our distillery right next to our potato fields: we know exactly what goes into every bottle we make.” According to the company, Beattie’s Vodka is very different from a lot of other vodkas out there. It’s buttery, creamy and just a little bit sweet, with a smooth finish that makes it perfect for a martini or just enjoying over a bit of ice. Pick up your summer stock at your nearby ABC Store or other local purveyor of fine spirits. Cheers!

A New Hotel at Mayland

Formerly known as the Pine Bridge Inn, Mayland Community College’s Blue Ridge Boutique will be a 34-room boutique hotel connected to downtown Spruce Pine by the walking bridge over the Toe River. The first floor of the hotel will feature a restaurant and bar, as well as a meeting space and library room. The second and third floors will house guests in theme based rooms highlighting area natural attractions. Each room will be named for a local natural area in the three county region, such as the Mt. Mitchell Room, Linville Falls Room, and Roan Mountain Room. With the financial support of both the CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

town of Spruce Pine and Mitchell County, the infrastructure of the remodel is nearing completion as a new roof, electrical system, plumbing and sprinkler system are installed. Mayland Community College is in the design phase for the restaurant and bar and will begin remodeling the rooms in 2020. The estimated time for opening the doors is in 2021. Visit https://www.mayland.edu for updates on all the latest projects and public programs.

A Note from Our Friends at Glenn Davis Electric:

“During such a trying time for all of us, we are blessed that we have been able to remain open and continue to serve the High Country. After 37 years of being in business we would like to thank our loyal customers for continuing to support local and small businesses. We pride ourselves in being your local electrical contractor and working with your remodel or new construction. We also install and service whole house generators. We wish everyone a safe and happy summer.”

Save the Date for Blue Ridge Brutal

If climbing Mount Jefferson by bike is your thing, add Blue Ridge Brutal to your summer calendar. The Blue Ridge Brutal, to be held this year on August 22, is not for the faint hearted. All of the rides—102, 72 or 56 miles—take you onto the Blue Ridge Parkway and over numerous hills. Route elevation gains are 8,800 feet, 6,300 feet and 4,700 feet respectively. As such, all these rides can be considered challenging to strenuous. However, you can mix the pain with the joy of riding through some of the most beautiful scenery in North Carolina, which makes these rides some of the most spectacular in this area. A Note from event organizers: “While we are cognizant of the COVID-19 situation and guidelines, we are hopeful that the 2020 Blue Ridge Brutal will be held as scheduled on August 22nd. In that optimistic frame of mind, we are going ahead with plans to make it another incredible ride!” Visit https://blueridgebrutal.org/ for online registration and to check for updates on the event.

80 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

Sugar Mountain Summit Crawl

On Saturday, July 4, you can run, hike, climb, or crawl to Sugar Mountain’s 5,300foot peak! Sugar Mountain Resort challenges people of all ages to participate in the fourth annual Summit Crawl. The start whistle blows at 9 a.m., and competitors begin to ascend the mountain by way of Easy Street, Gunther’s Way, and Northridge slopes. Top finishers in each category who conquer the 1200’ climb win medals. And for those who cross the mile-high finish line complimentary water and fruit, sponsored by Lowes Foods, and a chance to win a winter season pass await. The Summit Express chairlift will operate from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. (for 4th of July fireworks viewing) and The Rockabilly’s jam from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger with food and refreshments in the base lodge all day long. Visit Sugar Mountain Sports Shop anytime between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Return later for a spectacular fireworks show while the Typical Mountain Boys perform on the deck of the base lodge from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. “The safety of Sugar Mountain Resort guests and employees has always been our top priority. We continue this commitment during the public health crisis by following guidance from the CDC and state public health officials to promote a clean, healthy, and fun environment.” For more information about the Summit Crawl or to sign up call 800-SUGAR-MT or visit www.skisugar. com/crawl.

Imagination Library

Through the popular Imagination Library program, children receive a FREE book in the mail every month from birth until their fifth birthday! The Blue Ridge Partnership for Children adds components to support families’ understanding of their role in reading aloud to their child daily, building strong literacy skills. Working with the Dollywood Foundation, the Blue Ridge Partnership for Children pays $30 per child for books and shipping costs. With about 1,800 children receiving monthly books across our three counties, these costs are funded by Smart Start, state funds, private grants, and generous community donations through fundraisers and individual contributions. More than 160,000 Imagination Library books have been mailed to children in Avery, Mitchell and Yancey counties since 2006 and over 1,000,000 books have been mailed in just over a year statewide!

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COMMUNITY & LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS a feathered “celebrity” spotted around town. Maxine White is also the name of Blake’s grandmother, who was an important part of making their project possible. “So the name felt perfect, tying together family and community.” Kelli adds, “Our years of experience in the hospitality industry have taught us it’s people that make the difference. We believe in taking the time to develop relationships. That’s our story, we can’t wait to meet you and hear yours!” Learn more about The White Crow Wedding and Event Venue at www. thewhitecrow.com.

Loven Casting & Construction The Family Behind The White Crow

“To sum us up, we love big, work hard and embrace our own slice of crazy,” says Kelli Crymes, joint owner with husband, Blake, of The White Crow Wedding and Event Venue. Blake and Kelli have been together since they were 18, and working together ever since they met. They have spent over 24 years in the private club business, and when they aren’t working, they spend time on their farm, chasing goats, chickens, a pig and two giant Great Pyrenees. The White Crow’s picturesque wedding and event venue offers everything to ensure a memorable experience for guests. “At The White Crow, you are not just another date on our calendar. We feel honored to be a part of your special day, helping to make memories that last a lifetime.” The venue even has a flower garden on location, so a bride can cut fresh flowers from the garden and leave a donation. “Each year we will use all these proceeds for a different local charity chosen by our family—a good example is Feeding Avery Families or the Watauga Humane Society. We believe in giving back and have a family charity bake sale every year, all the money going to Heifer International. We want to raise our boys to be kind, work hard, and laugh often.” The Crymes say they came up with the name of their business as an homage to the white crow who lives in Banner Elk,

The Loven name is well known here in the High Country. For more than 75 years, the Loven family of companies has provided building materials, ready mix concrete products, and cast concrete items. It all began in 1938 when Carey Loven, Sr. began a saw mill business to saw and plane timber harvested from the mountains of western North Carolina. C.L. Loven Lumber Company sold these timber products, along with lumber and building materials. Working with his four sons, Joe, Carey Jr., Jimmy, and Bobby, Carey turned Loven Lumber into a household name in the High Country by providing quality building materials for countless homes and businesses. Beginning in the ‘60s, the family added ready mix concrete to their supply list. Loven Ready Mix became a fast growing family business that dominated markets in east Tennessee and western North Carolina. Today, Bobby Loven, also a general contractor, applies his engineering expertise to concrete casting and currently operates Loven Casting and Construction. The company sells commercial and residential cast concrete products, septic tanks, and cast block shapes exclusively in the High Country. Their newest product Lock Rocks have become quite popular in our area. In addition to having a natural look, Lock Rocks are exceptionally strong and sturdy, so they’re perfect for retaining walls, landscaping projects and other structural needs. Plus, Lock Rocks can be customized and installed quickly, which keeps your project local and cost-effective. To learn more about Lock Rocks by Loven Casting and if they might be a good fit for your next project, call 828-733-0525 or visit lovencasting.com.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

Putting Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy mind, body, & spirit for all. Come join us.

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Grandfather Home Visitors’ Center & Museum Opens Special to CML

“When Mrs. Holcomb looked around at the scantily furnished house, she could easily have been discouraged by the task ahead. In the seven-room farmhouse there were only two tables, two chairs, one cook stove, and one borrowed bed. How in the world would she and John turn this into an orphanage? But she was the type to enjoy a challenge. They had long wanted children, and this must be God’s gracious answer, “ Yes!” —Excerpt from The Child Now Before Us by Mary Dudley Gilmer

rs. Holcomb’s story and others are waiting for you at the new Grandfather Home Visitors’ Center and Museum this summer in Banner Elk. Visitors can enjoy the fire and beautiful mountain views while learning about the history of Grandfather Home for Children. How many children lived at the orphanage in the early 1900s? What was it like to live there? In 1914, Hattie Bond, a six-year-old blonde, came to Grandfather with her brother Clarence. Decades later, she recalled Sunday hikes from Banner Elk Presbyterian Church. The children were allowed, she remembered, to go “for a slow

walk in the maple orchard, slow because it was sinful to walk fast on Sunday.” While the visitor center is a place for the community to gather, the museum highlights different aspects of the lives of Grandfather Home children: working on the farm, going to school, eating dinner together, and walking to church. Take a look at the maple taps and sap buckets they used for making delicious maple syrup. Go back in time as you flip through photos of what it was like working in the orchard, canning vegetables, and picking blackberries. Located in Banner Elk, just before the main campus of Grandfather Home on Hickory Nut Gap Road, the Visitors’ Center and Museum hosts community gatherings as well as celebrations for the youth living on campus. Next to the rock fireplace, Grandfather Home supporters are honored as Children’s Trust Society (CTS) members. The CTS members’ names are carved into 100-year-old wormy chestnut plaques milled from the original doors of the cottages on campus. “We have been looking for a space to honor members of the CTS society, and we are so excited to be able to showcase their commitment and support of our

mission inside the visitors’ center,” explains Grandfather Home staff, Madison Cornwell. “Family members can visit the museum and see their family’s love of Grandfather Home—learning how their support helps change the lives of children and families for generations.” To protect Grandfather Home’s children during the pandemic, the main campus remains closed to the public throughout the summer. However, the Grandfather Home Visitors’ Center and Museum welcomes anyone to learn about the services provided to children and families who are suffering from abuse, neglect, and abandonment. The mission to serve children started on these grounds 106 years ago, and the commitment to that continues today in many new and exciting capacities. Interested in exploring the history of Grandfather Home? This summer, the Visitors’ Center and Museum will be open by appointment only to help maintain social distancing, keeping visitors, staff, and children safe. Call Madison Cornwell at 828-406-2424 to schedule a free private tour.

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hen locals and tourists are looking for a comprehensive guide to fun and entertainment in the High Country, many turn to High Country Host (HCH). In March, HCH celebrated 40 years of providing resources, guides, and information about the High Country to visitors and residents. HCH collaborates with local companies to provide detailed information and a guide to multiple counties in the area, including Watauga, Avery, Ashe, Alleghany, and Wilkes counties. Candice Cook, executive marketing director at High Country Host said, “We want the local community to know we are a resource for information on ‘what to do’—we also have the most comprehensive event calendar in the region.” High Country Host aims to not only serve visiting tourists but also provide locals with resources for entertainment and engagement within our communities. Located in a shared building with Appalachian Ski Mountain, the High Country Host Regional Welcome Center is situated between Boone and Blowing Rock, a prime location for anyone wanting to explore the area. With maps, a water bottle station, and public restrooms, High Country Host is a must stop before hopping on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Center has pamphlets and information on the best places to stay, eat, and visit, as well as friendly staff who are always ready to answer visitors’ questions. High Country Host even provides day trip itineraries, hiking maps, and ideas for family outings. High Country Host was started in

1980 by brothers Harry Robbins (The Blowing Rock) and Spencer Robbins (Tweetsie Railroad) to promote tourism in Banner Elk, Boone, Linville, and Blowing Rock. The Robbins brothers were later joined by Hugh Morton (Grandfather Mountain), Jack Pentes (Beech Mountain, Land of Oz) and Bill Hensley (Hound Ears). In addition, Sue Wilmoth, former executive director of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, Tony diSanti, former president of the Blowing Rock Chamber, and Fred Conners, former president of the Avery County Chamber, joined to complete High Country Host’s founding members. Candice Cook said, “Tourism will always be a main industry in the High Country, with our natural beauty and idyllic climate being a constant draw. We want to continue to offer the tourism community the opportunity to work together, across county lines, through regional promotions ‘off the mountain.’” As tourism continues to increase, High Country Host is always looking for new businesses and resources to recommend to anyone in need of guidance. Whether you’re looking for kidfriendly activities or searching for difficult hiking trails in the region, High Country Host can help you find the perfect activity to entertain your family. Stop by the Official Regional Welcome Center at 6370 US Highway 321 South Blowing Rock, NC 28605. The Welcome Center is open seven days a week. Check out their website https://highcountryhost.com or call 828-264-1299. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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The Remarkable Williams YMCA Celebrates Its 13th Birthday in 2020 By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

A Note from Trey Oakley, CEO, Williams YMCA of Avery County “When the staff at YMCA began working with CML on this article in early March, we had no idea what changes were coming. We were primed to offer a full menu of Evidence Based Health Intervention Programs, ready to welcome back our summer residents, prepared for a summer of fun and sun at camp and we were painting soccer fields. Then on March 16th due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I made the call to close the Y for the foreseeable future. Our world stopped. While we have faced and will continue to face many trials and challenges during this process, I have learned something. Our staff is resilient, our members are loyal and supportive, and our donors believe in our cause. What makes the Y such a special organization and what separates us from other “swim and gyms,” is the ability to adapt quickly to community needs. Immediately our Y worked with area health officials, the Department of Health and Human Services and our YMCA State Alliance to structure Emergency Childcare for Essential Workers, to deliver food and medication to seniors, to complete thousands of “check-up” phone calls, to assist in delivering thousands of pounds of food to those in need and to provide virtual health and wellness opportunities. While our facility was closed for 76 days, our commitment to our children, older adults, and families never changed. We are now open for aquatics, outdoor group exercise and summer camp. Please check our website www.

ymcaavery.org for schedules and any updated information regarding the reopening of our Wellness Center and Athletics. Through all of this, our vision has not changed. We are here to create a community where people have the opportunity to live healthy, all youth can be safe and reach their potential, and the elderly have the support they need to live independently. We are proud of year 13 and are excited about the next 13 years.”

n 2007, when the Williams YMCA of Avery County first opened, its facility next to Cannon Memorial Hospital included modern but modest fitness space in a single building. Over the past dozen years, the Y has expanded, exemplifying its own core principle: to nurture potential. With new and improving spaces, resources, and programs for everyone, the Y and the community it serves had plenty of reasons to celebrate as it turned 13 in April 2020. According to Bonnie Clark, Associate Executive Director of the Y, “The last couple of years have seen explosive growth,” and while much of that growth has been behind the scenes, some of the exciting changes are now getting the spotlight. Some updates are physical, as the main lobby undergoes a makeover. The new space is vibrant and welcoming, just like the Y itself. The John M. Blackburn Indoor Athletic Facility, located behind Cannon Memorial, and the Chapman Center both provide space for athletic, social, and community functions as the Y embodies

its mission: “To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.” Spaces within the Y continue to expand and adapt to offer a wide variety of programs, from the Arthur Youth Center to the Chapman Teen Center. In recent years, the Y has provided resources for everyone, while seeking to improve the overall health of our community. The Healthy Living Programs have been some of the most vital elements in the Y’s efforts, with a wide array of options. These popular programs have offered tools for coping with specific chronic conditions like arthritis, Parkinson’s, high blood pressure, and diabetes. The LIVESTRONG program has provided exercise-based support for cancer survivors at all stages, while other programs have included tools and support for weight-loss and fall prevention. Some programs have focused exclusively on exercise, others have been classroombased, and some have incorporated both. When in session, each of these programs offer the opportunity to gain lifelong skills and habits, with meetings that fit members’ schedules. For example, last year’s participants in the Delay the Disease Parkinson’s program met twice a week for twelve weeks and saw improvements in their weakness and balance, along with emotional and psychological benefits. The two weight-loss cohorts last year reported an amazing collective loss of continued...

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

over 200 pounds in just twelve weeks. The Diabetes Prevention Program, according to Assistant Director of Healthy Living Lauren Wilson, has been especially necessary in our area for overcoming the barriers of addressing diabetes and has produced tangible results: those who can reduce their weight by just five to seven percent can cut their diabetes risk in half, and last year’s program members averaged a loss of 11 percent. Wilson has loved watching participants do what they thought they couldn’t, like a senior adult whose range

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of motion gradually increased by meeting small, achievable goals that added up to huge improvement in range of motion, confidence, and quality of life. In 2020, some of these successful programs have been put on hold, but will likely resume in the near future and be joined by new ones, including Healthy Weight and Your Child, which addresses the issues of childhood obesity. Wilson, who “lives and breathes” the Healthy Living programs, is delighted by “seeing people overcome their challenges and barriers,” and she looks forward to the return of past programs, new programs and those expanding to other sites. The Y also has plenty to offer for those who may not need to target a specific issue, but still want to improve their overall fitness and have fun at the same time. The excellent aquatics center has reopened and continues to offer a wide variety of classes and a fantastic pool for swimmers of all levels. Once reopened, the wellness center provides members’ use of state-of-the-art equipment and offers a “coach approach”: four 30-minute sessions with a wellness coach, offering guidance on specific machines to match goals and instruction to

help improve form and avoid injury. Tennis, volleyball, and other sports that have taken place in the Blackburn Center are likely to resume in the near future. Clinics will also once again be offered to help student athletes improve and gain experience for team sports like soccer. The YMCA will continue to offer other opportunities for children from infancy to teens. These free, grant-supported programs provide resources ranging from STEM-based enrichment and homework help to Summer and Snow Day Camp and hot dinners in the After-School Program. Clark stresses that the Y really is for everyone, and that scholarships, subsidies, and other resources make it possible for any member of the community to take advantage of the Y. “The Y is about overcoming obstacles,” Clark says. “It’s the great equalizer,” where all ages and backgrounds can grow and improve, and even with the recent changes due to COVID-19, the next thirteen years look to be just as exciting as the last. To find out more about the programs at the Y or to become a member and take advantage of all the Y has to offer, check out the website at ymcaavery.org.

It is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge that Dr. Tate passed away shortly before this issue of CML went to press. With this article, we honor an amazing person and celebrate his many contributions to the community. “Dr. Tate was a thirdgeneration physician serving Avery County. Even as his body failed him, he continued to find fulfillment in serving others by providing medical care to the community and asking nothing in return. I’ll always remember Dr. Tate for his quick wit, love for life and his family,”

—Chuck Mantooth, FACHE President and CEO of Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

Dr. Bill Tate:

Third-Generation Tradition, First-Rate Care By Elizabeth Baird Hardy

n 1910, Avery County was still a year away from officially becoming North Carolina’s one-hundredth county when Dr. W.C. Tate came to Banner Elk to care for the region’s residents, many of whom lacked access to even the most basic medical care. He practiced in Avery County until his death in 1960, succeeded by his son, Dr. Lawson Tate, who also treated the area’s people for his entire career. Dr. William Cummings Tate II, “Bill,” began practicing alongside his father Lawson in 1977, and in his own more than four decades of treating the people of Avery County, he devoted himself to providing more than medical care. By both building upon the past and crafting his own legacy, Dr. Bill Tate championed healthcare improvements in the region while helping to shape the Avery County of the future. After graduating from the medical school of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Dr. Bill Tate returned in 1977 to Avery County, where he had grown up, to join his father’s practice. While he learned from his father’s experience, he also brought new surgical techniques and tools. Dr. Charlie Baker credits that combination with the creation of a “whole other level of quality of care” in the High Country. Most importantly, Doctor Tate stayed in Avery County, treating generations of residents, many of whom considered him “their” doctor even after his retirement. Dr. Bob Clark, one of the only other local physicians who was also raised here, notes Dr. Tate’s remarkable investment in his patients, who were the core of his practice since the beginning. “He always treated people like a part

of his family, and he never turned people down,” Clark says. “He gave his life 24/7, 365 to people he knew wouldn’t be cared for otherwise.” That care for people, from his patients, to his colleagues, to the community, was one of the characteristics that defined Dr. Tate. In 1998, Dr. Thomas Haizlip joined the Tate Clinic and was immediately impressed by the way Dr. Tate was invested in his patients. “He’s always looked at making sure care was available— appropriate and modern care,” even if it required research, learning new surgical skills, or implementing new techniques. “There were things I didn’t see in my training that Bill could do,” says Haizlip, who described Dr. Tate as both a great friend and a tremendous surgical partner on whom he could always rely for support in seeking the best outcomes for patients. Sherri Cornett, a surgical technologist who spent decades working in the operating room alongside Bill Tate, agrees. “I have never seen Dr. Tate back down from anything.” At the same time, she says, “he never treated anyone like second best. The patient always had first priority.” Dr. Clark also regarded Dr. Tate as part of “the Golden Age of medicine” when a surgeon had to adapt to save lives when a trip to a distant facility wasn’t possible. He respected Dr. Tate for his wealth of knowledge and collegial spirit as well as for his practical continued...

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

Watauga Medical Center… a national leader in quality right here in the High Country. Our Healthgrades awards are proof that we provide superior quality care right here in the High Country. Healthgrades evaluates hospital performance using objective quality measures including clinical outcomes and patient safety, as well as patient experience. • America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery™ in 2020 • Patient Safety Excellence Award™ & Nation’s Top 10% in 2019 • Orthopedic Surgery Excellence Award™ & Nation’s Top 10% for 2 Years in a Row (2019-2020) • Coronary Intervention Excellence Award™ & Nation’s Top 10% in 2020 • 5-Star for Heart Attack for 2 Years in a Row (2019-2020) • 5-Star for Heart Failure in 2020 • 5-Star for Hip Fracture for 2 Years in a Row (2019-2020) To learn more, visit apprhs.org/healthgrades

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gifts, like the ability to swiftly complete surgical procedures and thus minimize patient risk of exposure. “I could call him at 2 a.m. to do a C-section, and he would come in,” says Clark. Because of his leadership and team ethic, Dr. Tate was a key element in bringing about large projects like the merger of the county’s two hospitals into Cannon Memorial, while also taking the time to encourage individual students, new practitioners, and staff members. “He was always willing to teach me,” Cornett says. Patients at the Tate Clinic have sought treatment there because they trusted in the medical treatment they would receive, but also, “People would come here because they want to be understood and heard,” says Dr. Haizlip, who notes that Dr. Tate had always “understood the people, how to approach them.” By clarifying procedures, by patiently helping people understand what they needed and why, “he could get people to trust him…. He took the time to understand everybody. He truly cared about every person he ever took care of.” Carmen Lacey, president of Cannon Memorial Hospital, described Bill Tate as “the kindest, most compassionate surgeon I’ve ever known, who would do whatever it took to make his patients comfortable.” That care for his patients always extended beyond the clinic and the operating room. Bill Tate had consistently fought to make Avery County a better place. He “absolutely loved this community,” Lacey says. Serving for over 20 years on the school board, Dr. Tate championed education for the community. He was “devoted to improving lives in the community,” Dr. Baker asserts, and that is “not just medical care, but also social needs and infrastructure. He walked the walk” of caring for the community, of treating each of his patients like a beloved family member. As Dr. Baker notes, Bill Tate’s life was one that “reflected a balance with family and work and faith.” That is a balance seen whether he was laughing with his wife Donna, spending time with his daughters and grandchildren, supporting community events and programs, or singing in his church choir. While his family name is interwoven with the history of our area and its medical care, Dr. Tate took his own direction in creating history here. “Had he come from anywhere else,” President Lacey predicted, “he would still have made a name for himself.” Dr. Bill Tate truly made his own legacy, a legacy of putting himself second to his patients and his community. Yet, he also honored and carried on the traditions of his family and the Avery County they loved. By loving the people he has served, and by letting them love him in return, Dr. Tate shaped a legacy that will resonate into the next century of Avery County history and beyond.

An Ounce Of Prevention...

Child Passenger Safety By Mike Teague

’m sure many readers can remember the time before the introduction of car seats. Back then, most cars had seat belts installed, but many were rarely used. Today is a different day with regards to seat belt and car seat usage. While using a seat belt as an adult is fairly straightforward, car seats and booster seats for children can still leave you with many questions, such as: “When can I turn my child’s car seat around?” “When can my child or grandchild switch to a booster seat?” “When can I move my child to the front seat?” Below I answer these and other important questions about child passenger safety. The Argument for Car Seat Use According to Safe Kids Worldwide, in 48% of child fatalities due to automobile crashes that occurred 25 years ago, the child wasn’t restrained in any manner. This was the era when car seat and seatbelt usage was beginning to improve, but still not the “norm” as it is today. We would like to think our society has improved greatly since then. But according to Safe Kids, in 25% of child fatalities due to automobile crashes in 2015, the child was unrestrained! The obvious first step people need to take is to use the safety devices in the first place. While automobile safety has improved, there are more cars on the road today than 25 years ago. And many drivers today are distracted by their smart phones, adding to an increased danger for everyone, including our children and grandchildren. Incorrect Car Seat Use A study conducted in 2016 by Safe Kids Worldwide found that 56% of car seats inspected during car seat checks were incorrectly installed. One of the biggest problems was the lack of, or improper use of, the seat’s top tether. Incorrect installation can lead to many serious injuries and death. How can we change this statistic? It

is important to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions to the letter, and resist taking shortcuts. Even if you have used car seats in the past, it is important to read the installation instructions fully with every new car seat. As with most safety devices, manufacturers continue to improve and change their designs. If you are concerned about your child’s car seat installation, it is possible to have a certified car seat installer check your installation and educate you on the correct installation. In the same Safe Kids study it was found that proper car seat installation remained as high as 93% after the parent was educated on proper installation (see my list of car seat checking stations here in the High Country at the end of this article). Requirements and Recommendations Child passenger restraints are required when riding in vehicles for children up to 7 years old and under 80 pounds. According to Buckle Up NC, a child can use a properly fitted seatbelt once they reach the age of 8 or 80 pounds, whichever comes first. Please keep in mind that NC law requires the child to remain in a child restraint or booster seat until they are of the size where the seatbelt properly fits. In some cases this may include children past the age of 8 or 80 pounds. Safe Kids Worldwide adds that a child is ready to use the seatbelt alone when they can pass the following three tests: 1. The child’s knees should bend at the edge of the seat when their back and bottoms are against the vehicle’s seat back. 2. The vehicle’s lap belt fits snugly across the bony hips or upper thighs and not across the soft stomach. 3. The vehicle’s shoulder belt fits across the bony shoulder and chest and not across the face or neck. According to Buckle Up NC, children must remain in a rear facing car seat until they meet the requirements of the manufacturer to move to forward facing. This

is generally one year old, and at least 20 pounds. Recommendations on the Buckle Up NC website indicate that for best protection of your child, wait until the child is at least two years old, or outgrows their rear-facing car seat. Town of Boone Fire Marshal Amy Flieg leads the car seat safety program at the Boone Fire Department. Flieg says, “It is important for parents to resist the urge to turn children around to front facing.” Flieg adds, “Your child’s safety is improved the longer you can keep them rear-facing.” Safe Kids Worldwide recommends that the best practice would be to hold off turning them around as long as possible, or until they have outgrown the weight limit listed on the car seat. Delaying the turn to forward facing protects the child’s neck and spine during an automobile crash. Keep in mind rear facing car seats cannot be installed in front passenger seats unless the air bags have been turned off. Once children are using seatbelts, Buckle Up NC recommends keeping your children riding in the back seat until they are at least 12 or 13 years old. According to NC law, children younger than the age of five and less than 40 pounds must ride in the back seat of the vehicle. The only exceptions are when the vehicle has no back seat and no front airbag, or the airbag has been turned off. You can reduce the risks for children in your life by understanding and following the current safety recommendations for auto travel, and keeping up with changes in requirements as your children grow. Safe Kids Worldwide: www.SafeKids.org Buckle Up NC: www.BuckleUpNC.org Car Seat Checking Stations – BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Ashe Medics (Ashe County) @ (336) 846-9111 Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue (Watauga County) (828) 548-2801 Boone Fire Department (Watauga County) (828) 268-6180 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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Community Paramedicine in Avery County By Koren Gillespie

EMT Samantha Knight

elcome Summer, welcome Community Paramedicine to Avery County! A recently awarded grant to Cannon Memorial Hospital by the Duke Endowment now allows Avery County residents free access to in-home preventative and primary care services provided by local EMT Samantha Knight. In her new role as Community Paramedicine Program Coordinator and Paramedic, Knight began serving enrolled patients in April. “As a paramedic, I have seen this need for years; calls take us into patient homes, where I have seen firsthand the social and economic issues that exist,” says Knight. “Having a conversation with them has revealed that many are unaware of services in the area, other than EMS and the Emergency Department. I believe that being the bridge to facilitate the connection to resources will improve quality of life for these patients.” Community Paramedicine is designed to serve individuals who are isolated due to their rural address or a physical health

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problem. Typical participants will be the elderly population, those who suffer from chronic conditions, or patients who are at high risk of being readmitted to the hospital. The goal is to connect them with needed services in hopes of preventing unnecessary and costly ambulance rides or visits to the Emergency Department. Carmen Lacey, President and Chief Nursing Officer at Cannon Memorial Hospital, further explains the need for these services by stating, “I had heard of the success of Community Paramedicine within other communities from several of my hospital peers throughout the state. When Mike Edmisten, the Avery County EMS Director, approached me last year to inquire about a partnership and funding to implement Community Paramedicine in Avery County, I felt very strongly that this was the right thing to do.” Lacey continues, “There are people within our community who feel they have no recourse other than to use 911 and EMS for non-emergent issues. Perhaps they don’t have transportation to get to their

doctor for an appointment, they can’t get to the pharmacy to get their medications filled, or they have no one to intervene before their health takes a turn for the worse. The intent is not to discourage the community from utilizing 911 and EMS, but to provide them with the resources they need so it is not necessary. We want this program to provide each patient with the right care, at the right time, for the lowest cost.” Local paramedics frequently see the healthcare needs of their community. One recent call to 911 brought them to the home of a patient who was discharged from the hospital due to Congestive Heart Failure. The patient received a prescription diuretic from their Cardiologist, as well as their primary doctor. This extra prescription led them to believe they should take both, which resulted in a trip to the Emergency Department to treat dehydration. Additionally, the patient was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and later received an additional prescription to help with those symptoms but did not fill it due to cost. This patient ended up back in the hospital, which translates to three costly visits within a short time frame. Another call to EMTs dealt with an elderly diabetic who called on several different occasions due to low blood sugar. Paramedics learned the patient had financial difficulties buying both insulin and food. EMS services also help patients who suffer from mental health issues and have difficulty getting to their appointments due to a lack of reliable transportation. Missing appointments and crucial prescription refills often results in an increase of symptoms and additional calls to emergency services for help. And, if no behavioral health beds are available, patients must stay in the Emergency Department for days until they can be admitted to another facility and get their medications regulated. Other patients may have a disconnect between their time in the hospital and follow-up with their physician. If patients call and cannot get an appointment within the specified time frame, they often suffer a relapse and end up back in the hospital. “The rural community has challenges related to transportation and other social determinants that could impact health,” says Lacey. “At highest risk are those who

may not know what is available within the community. The Paramedicine program assists in coordinating these services for those in need to keep them at their optimal state of health for a longer period. The program provides a more costeffective option—calling an ambulance or visiting the Emergency Department can be very expensive. Partnering with a medical provider to get regular health check-ups has been proven to help maintain better health and quality of life, as well as reducing overall health costs,” adds Lacey. A major goal of Community Paramedicine is to prevent the above instances from occurring. Participants may be identified by EMS, the hospital, physician practices, or anyone who sees that someone is at-risk. The community paramedicine provider will reach out to patients and explain the program to see if they would like to enroll. Once enrolled, a trained community paramedic will visit patients in their home to identify specific needs. Patients will be seen weekly for at least six weeks or until other services are put into place to ensure each patient’s continued success. Knight concludes, “Paramedics are used to and very comfortable being in patients’ homes. Being in a patient’s home is very beneficial to observing overall health. We are hoping to decrease EMS call volume and Emergency Department visits by targeting high utilizers within their home environment and addressing their individual needs. There is a gap in some healthcare services that people fall into. Not because they aren’t qualified for a service, but rather they are not aware of what is available. Our county has so many great resources to offer if one only knows where to look and how to access them.” The Duke Endowment grant funds will provide support for the Avery Community Paramedic Program for three years. Currently, scheduled program visits will be available to enrolled participants Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The program hopes to eventually expand services to include weekends, as well as hire additional Community Paramedics. For more information, call Cannon Memorial Hospital at (828) 7377000 or the Avery County EMS office at (828) 733-8286.

Telehealth Visits:

Dr. Greg Price, Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

Healthcare from the comfort of your home You can now visit healthcare providers via online video! Appalachian Regional Healthcare System (ARHS) has launched a new telehealth program to ensure patients have safe, convenient access to their providers during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Through telehealth visits, you can meet with an ARHS healthcare provider using a computer or mobile device from the safety of your own home. Telehealth is most appropriate for routine visits such as simple acute care (sick visits), follow-up, wellness visits, and behavioral health concerns like depression, anxiety or grief. Learn more at https://apprhs.org/videovisit/.

AVERY COUNTY TRANSPORTATION 34 Pershing St, Newland NC 28657 828-733-0005 • Fax: 828-733-8280

• Open Mon–Fri 8:00–4:30 (excludes holidays) • All Routes are open to the public • Trained Drivers to help with elderly and disabled riders • Trips to Medical appointments available outside of the county • ADA compliant vans available • Service animals are welcome • Veterans ride for free for medical appointments • Weekly in-county routes • Monthly out of county shopping trips • Affordable Transportation Fares • Available to all Avery County Residents • Services also provided through community agencies Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AveryTransportation CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 — CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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96 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

R H O D I E S G A LO R E • O R G A

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Your Favorite Destination Garden Shop

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The Avery Humane Society:

Improving the Quality of Life for Animals and People By LouAnn Morehouse

t’s hard to believe now, but until fairly recently, it was a rare event for veterinarians to spay or neuter the family pet. Apart from being a relatively expensive procedure, the prevailing attitude of the time seems to have been that dogs and cats would be… dogs and cats…and it was just nature taking its course to have lots of puppies and kittens around. Nature kept at it, and the unwanted offspring often wound up as strays, and one way or another ended up euthanized by animal control. In fact, “putting down” cats and dogs was almost commonplace. While some people saw that as a tragedy, the fact of the matter was that the principal reason counties supported animal control services was to eliminate unwanted animals. Although it was a public service that took care of a pressing problem, animal shelters were sad, desperate places to go to, and if your dog or cat went missing, chances were they would be euthanized at the animal shelter in short order. Things are much different now, thank goodness. According to recent research, a sea change in the American consciousness got started about forty years ago, when there was a “decline in shelter intake and euthanasia from 1970 onwards, despite

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the doubling of pet dog and cat populations.” Researchers say it was largely due to increased levels of pet dog and cat sterilization as low-cost spay/neuter programs became widespread. And along with that came changes in attitude towards pet ownership. Dogs and cats were valued more as companions, and responsible pet ownership, which meant keeping pets vaccinated, fed and sheltered appropriately, and neutered, became the norm. The first animal shelter in Avery County opened in 1978 out on Stamey Branch Road. It was a true community endeavor born of compassion; one family donated land for the facility and many others stepped forward to make it succeed. A few decades later, a kind-hearted summer resident saw the effort put forth by those caring folks, and decided she could help. She rallied the support of her friends and, with perseverance, patience, and a lot of fundraising, brought about the completion in 2012 of the Avery County Humane Society that now stands on New Vale Road in Newland. It’s quite a place, the type of facility you might expect in a modern urban center. Executive director, Gwynne Dyer, says

that she frequently hears praise about the shelter from folks who come to adopt animals. People who have never even been to Newland are impressed that the county has such a fine humane society. She says the Avery Humane Society draws animal lovers from a wide area, “Charlotte, Raleigh, Tennessee, and beyond,” who drive all the way to Avery County to adopt a pet. It’s something she feels Avery County can “be proud of and embrace.” The big, flaring roofline of the shelter houses a state-of-the-art ventilation system that performs the all-important role of keeping the risk of contagion to a bare minimum. That’s a serious problem at other shelters, where neglected animals often carry disease that can infect other rescued cats and dogs, sometimes causing a total shut down. At Avery, which is a “no-kill” shelter, up to 95 cats and dogs have spacious, clean accommodations while waiting to be adopted. Volunteers and staff are frequently seen inside the enclosures, playing with the animal residents. Shelter manager Charlene Calhoun says one of the perks of her job is that, “if you are having a bad day, you can always go pet a dog.” The Humane Society fulfills all the

needs of responsible pet ownership, from low-cost spay/neuter procedures to that most rewarding process, the placing of dogs, cats, and the occasional rabbit, with a companion person. Gwynne Dyer says the Avery shelter is proud of their high pet adoption rate, and that many placements are senior animals, which are not as easily re-homed. It should be noted, though, that they cannot guarantee they can take every dog or cat people bring to them. They want to, but if the shelter is full, they have to put the animals on a wait list until a space opens up. Fortunately, given their active adoption program, space becomes available pretty quickly. Where once the solution to lost pets and strays was a sad end at the hands of animal control, the clean, fed, vaccinated, neutered, and cared-for tenants of today’s animal shelter are a big step forward in how we as a society look after our beloved companion animals. It took the will and the effort of many people to make it happen, and—here’s the most important part—it still does. Restoring just one neglected animal to health costs approximately $400, and every dog or cat admitted to the shelter receives that level of care.

The Avery Humane Society is a nonprofit organization that relies on donations to maintain operations. It does not receive state, municipal, or county funding. Although major donors made the new building possible, it needs community support and engagement to cover the annual cost of running and staffing the facility. “The shelter in Avery County is an amazing place,” says Jesse Pope, President of the Board. “We provide the animals and the community with much needed services. We have an incredible facility and very knowledgeable staff. We thank the individuals and organizations like the High Country Charitable Foundation who make the important work we do possible. Since all support comes from private individuals and limited private grants, the support we gain from this community is paramount to our success and sustainability. We are very appreciative of the support we receive from everyone who helps make it possible.” The services offered by the Avery Humane Society make a big difference in the quality of life here. But there are costs, and people should know what it takes to make it work. The Avery Humane Society has lots of ways that you can help. Go

visit them; don’t worry, it isn’t like the old days. Their website has good information. Or you can call or email them. It really IS something we can all be proud of and embrace. Take a moment now to pet your dog or cat…

The Avery Humane Society is located at 279 New Vale Road, Newland NC 28657. www.averyhumane.org 828733-9265 Notice from the Avery Humane Society regarding Covid-19: Access for the general public to the building may continue to be limited. Please visit www. averyhumane.org for the latest updates. Animals available for adoption may be viewed on the website. If you see one you would like to meet with and adopt, call the facility at 828-733-2333. Applications are also available at www.averyhumane.org/adopt.

“Where the Locals Go” OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Every Monday!

Join us on Monday evenings for World Tavern Texas Hold’em Poker from 6-10 PM.

At Shoppes of Tyne

, NC

castle in Banner Elk

Every Friday!

Join us on Friday evenings for our popular Karaoke Night, 7-11 PM. Enjoy all your favorite menu items and drink specials while you and your friends take to the stage.

Every Saturday!

Join us Saturday evenings for LIVE MUSIC from 8-11 PM!

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Bring a Book, Take a Book

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

Open All Year Tuesday-Friday 10-4 Saturday 1-4 (May - October) We look forward to seeing you back in the Book Exchange when we are able to reopen.

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Wings of Hope and the Art of Healing By Steve York

s there a vital role for art to play in the treatment and healing of diseases? The resounding answer from health professionals and their patients alike is, “Yes! Absolutely!” Art engages the senses and the senses are how we experience life. When the senses are stimulated in a positive, uplifting way, we just naturally feel better emotionally. And, when we feel better emotionally, all kinds of good things happen within our mind and body that tell our whole being to “be well and have hope.” That hope is now vividly on display for radiation treatment patients at the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center in Boone, North Carolina. In fact, it’s literally called “Wings of Hope.” According to cancer center staff, until recently, when radiation oncology patients entered the long hallway at the Center to receive their treatments, they were greeted with a long blank wall, no windows or decoration and dim lighting. The radiation therapy team expressed a need for something to brighten and beautify the journey for patients. They brought their idea to the Cancer Resource Alliance (CRA) Art Committee, and the Wings of Hope project was born. The group chose origami butterflies as a way to create a vibrant wall of color, bringing beauty to the area and keeping costs minimal. Around the world, people view the butterfly as representing endurance, change, transformation and hope. The Art Committee created opportu-

Wings Of Hope Wall Display

nities for patients to make origami butterflies. Mary Morgan, a member of the Art Committee, took on the task of making pre-folded butterflies so that it would be easy for many to participate, and she also helped patients and caregivers make their own butterflies. Each person was encouraged to personalize their butterfly in some way—with words of hope, their name or name of a loved one, and/or date they completed treatment. During the last six months of 2019, hundreds of butterflies were folded from papers of many different colors and patterns. After the butterflies were personalized, they were ready to be part of the Wings of Hope wall. On January 4, 2020, the Art Committee gathered to begin the installation of butterflies, which were separated by color into different containers. As the art committee members worked, a wave of colors began to fill the 16-footlong plexiglass display, creating a rainbow effect. The impact of the colors was immediately transformative and uplifting, even when just a few butterflies were in place. “For me, the origami butterfly display signifies rebirth, new beginnings and a new day. And isn’t that exactly what we all wish for?” noted cancer survivor, Ruby Harper, when asked about the Wings of Hope display. Ruby, who is a spry, youthful looking, 80-year-young resident of Boone, had completed a total of 30 rounds of radiation as of January. She had been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma back in November of

2019 and began radiation treatments in December. “I can’t say enough good about my doctor and all the radiation therapists. I truly feel blessed,” Ruby added. “And the beautiful origami butterfly display is the perfect way to inspire hope. I chose a pink butterfly to sign and post on the wall…and that made me one of many who are personally invested in the Wings of Hope display.” All members of the CRA Art Committee have either been touched by cancer in some way or are cancer survivors. One of those committee members is Beth Andrews, a fine artist formerly of Ashe County who now has a studio in the Yadkin Cultural Arts Center. Andrews was inspired to suggest the origami butterfly concept to the group and then worked with the committee as they pooled their creativity and brought the project to life. Beth Andrews’ history of promoting the benefits of art in wellness therapy began as a child and is deeply rooted in her own experiences surviving cancer. “My fear and trauma throughout cancer treatment was mitigated by nurses and doctors who cared, and by loving family and friends. But one gift transformed the experience and forever sealed my connection with the arts and health. On the tenth day of chemotherapy—which just happened to be my tenth birthday—a visitor came with a gift box made from beautiful wood with brass closings. Inside were oil paints, brushes, continud CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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Ruby Harper (center) placed a butterfly after finishing her radiation treatments, surrounded by Radiation Therapists Melanie Thomas, Amy Isaacs, Katie Neibaur, and Holly Fletcher (left to right).

CRA Art Committee Members shown in photo from left to right: Donna Brewer, Nancy Beltz, Mary Morgan, Sue Creech and Beth Andrews.

pencils, canvases…..and magic. I began to paint and somehow the fear, pain and stress seemed less important.” Andrews recalled. Years later, while living in Iowa, Andrews was again diagnosed with cancer. When filling out the admission forms at the University of Iowa Hospital, Andrews was amazed to find the question, “…and would you like the art cart to come to your room with art supplies or would you like to change out the art in your room?” Upon further inquiry, she found that the entire hospital had been redesigned to showcase the arts. Displays included beautiful sculptures, rotating art exhibits and multilevel balconies which opened onto a lower mezzanine featuring live piano music for patients and visitors to see, hear and enjoy throughout the day. The emphasis on art therapy, as seen with Wings of Hope, has become part of a trend throughout hospitals in North Carolina. Programs at Wake Forest University Medical Center, New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Rex Hospital Cancer Center and Duke University Hospital, to name a few, include art, music, dance and expressive arts therapists to work with patients, along with poetry therapists to help patients express their emotions through words. Melanie Thomas RT(R)(T), Clinical Lead in Radiation Oncology at Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center noted, “Our team really wanted something to brighten the long hallway leading to our treatment room. By collaborating with our Art Committee, we were able to come up with something inspiring and meaningful for our patients.” The Wings of Hope display utilizes art to help further connect the radiation staff with their patients, and to engage patients with the message and spirit of hope. But Ruby Harper said it best: “For me, the origami butterfly display signifies rebirth, new beginnings and a new day. And isn’t that exactly what we all wish for?” The Wings of Hope display is designated specifically for radiation patients and is not open to the general public. The Cancer Resource Alliance (CRA) is a comprehensive team of healthcare professionals, business partners, cancer caregivers and cancer survivor volunteers. The group was established in 2006 as an outreach arm of Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, part of Watauga Medical Center.

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Experience Wine with Altitude at Grandfather Vineyard and Winery By Julie Farthing

ome people have apple trees in their backyard. Some have vegetable or flower gardens, some even have chickens. Steve and Sally Tatum have a winery. It all began in 2003 when the Tatums planted several rows of French-American hybrid grape vines just down from the headwaters of the Watauga River between Boone and Banner Elk. They chose grapes that could survive altitudes where winters are harsh and summers seem to whiz by. The vineyard matured under the watchful gaze of Grandfather Mountain in the distance, while the distinctive terroir soon created a flavor profile that resulted in spectacular wines. Additional vines were planted on the terraced slope of their property adding a total of 10 to12 different varieties of wine grapes. In an ode to the ever present ancient mountain, the Tatums opened Grandfather Vineyard & Winery turning their once small hobby into the first winery in Watauga County, and one of the top destinations in the area. Almost a decade after opening their front door to the public, the transformation has been a labor of love for the entire Tatum family. After graduating from Surry Community College’s Viticulture and Enology program, Steve and Sally’s son, Dylan, took over as winemaker and general manager for the winery. “I knew it was a growing industry and I had an in-

terest in wine,” said Dylan. “I like to start from a raw material and see it all the way to the consumer.” Since the opening of the winery, Dylan and the Tatums have seen their business flourish. “We have a lot more employees, and have gone from producing 1,500 cases of wine a year to 5,000.” Sally Tatum, the winery’s first tasting room manager, recently handed the reins to Dylan’s wife, Nicole, who started working for the winery in 2015. “It’s been more than we thought it ever would be, and these guys just ran with it,” said Sally of the husband/wife team. “Dylan handles everything from that door back, and Nicole from this door up,” explained Sally, pointing to the wall separating the production area and the tasting room. Nicole has also noticed big changes in the last five years. “I feel like the time I came around in 2015 we were already seeing a lot of growth. We started to take off and it’s been crazy ever since.” It is no wonder the winery attracts so many visitors through every season in the High Country. Its location tucked between terraced vineyards and the crystal clear waters of the Watauga River is the perfect venue to enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting. Picnic tables with brightly colored umbrellas and adirondack chairs line the river bank. A covered pavilion, complete with a fire pit and heaters, allows guests to lounge outside in cooler weather or listen

to live music on warm summer afternoons. The winery offers a variety of wines ranging from dry, sweet, sparkling and dessert style, made from grapes that include Cabernet Franc, St. Croix, Lando Noir, Chambourcin and Vidal Blanc. Guests can sample wine flights, or enjoy a glass from one of four wines available on tap. There are also 25-30 different bottled wines on the menu for guests to sip on the winery grounds or take home. A very popular champagne style wine called Appalachian Bubbles is available for those special celebrations. Nicole has also created exciting perks for the 400 wine club members, such as discounts on wine purchases, free tastings, private events and even a European River Cruise scheduled for later this year. The club is so popular that there is currently a waiting list. “I try to do two or three events for members such as wine dinners,” said Nicole. “It’s a great way to meet other people. We have four or five-course meals— those are really fun,” she said of the dining experiences, which include local restaurants like Vidalia and the Gamekeeper. Another restaurant in partnership with the winery is Eleven80 Eatery. The restaurant’s owners fell in love with Grandfather Vineyard as Wine Club members and the Tatum family fell in love with Eleven80 continud CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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because of their delicious menu. The relationship has blossomed and resulted in the opening of the Eleven80 Food Truck, a new staple at Grandfather Vineyard. Owner Steve Tatum admits to being more of an outside person, preferring to tend the vines and the logistics that go along with a successful winery. He revealed future plans to build an additional building dedicated solely for winemaking and storage. Steve is also excited about an additional barrel aging process. “We now have a relationship with Jack Daniel’s,” exclaimed Steve. “One of our wine club members hooked us up with the head promotions guy of Jack Daniel’s. I was talking about aging some of our wines in whiskey barrels and he said ‘I know where you can get some.’ What we wanted were freshly dumped barrels where they have just dumped the whiskey and the barrels are really intense,” said Steve. “We did a red zinfandel and put it in charred oak after it had been in regular oak, and it was a hit. People loved it.” The Zinfandel sold out quickly and they currently have a white blend that has been aged eight months and has a hint of caramel and smoke. “If you like a big bold white, it’s really nice.” Sally, Steve, Dylan and Nicole stress the importance of recognizing the whole team working behind the scenes in the vineyard and at the winery to offer a one-of-a-kind tasting experience and an opportunity to build relationships with their customers. Meet the amazing team and see for yourself why Grandfather Vineyardd & Winery is the toast of the High Country. Check out their website for hours and events, including COVID-19 updates, and even view the live webcam at www.grandfathervineyard.com.

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Joshua Purdy pours for friends on the patio

Wine with a View By Joshua Purdy

s a Level 2 Sommelier for Blue Ridge Mountain Club, I get to enjoy the most amazing vantage point for beautiful landscapes and sophisticated wine. There are no better pairings than those two elements. Each season in the mountains brings a special kind of beauty and grace. I believe that finding a glass of wine for a season is similar to pairing a meal with wine. With the warmer weather now here, it’s time to get out and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Camping is one of the best ways to relax and connect with nature after being cooped up inside. Picture yourself away from all the craziness of life, enjoying the peace that only nature can bring, and holding the perfect glass of wine. Personally, I love making campfire meals by wrapping meat and vegetables in tin foil, adding seasoning, and letting the fire do all the work. If I were to choose a wine to drink during a BBQ meal cooked over a campfire, it would have to be a bottle of Melka “CJ” Cabernet from Napa Valley, California. This bold yet velvety smooth Cabernet has a beautiful bouquet of ripe black raspberry, black currant, fresh-baked cherry pie, and rose

petals. It is a crowd favorite and also a perfect pairing for most campfire braised meats. Just don’t get too spicy with it! If camping isn’t relaxing for you, maybe you’d rather recline in a rocking chair surrounded by good friends. A porch or patio allows you to bathe in the beauty without having to leave your home, plus it keeps you close to your wine selection. For those times, grab a bottle of Chateau de Beaucastel from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France. Chateau de Beaucastel’s spectacular 13- grape blend from Chateauneuf-duPape creates a full-bodied, leathery, and savory wine with stunning notes of red raspberry, bing cherry, and dried herbs. This wine is a wonderful example of how hard work, time and passion can create something beautiful—just like longlasting friendships. Sometimes the best views require a little hike. The High Country offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the U.S., and you don’t have to be a seasoned backpacker to discover spectacular mountain views. For leisurely hikes, I suggest the Domaine de Fontsainte Gris di Gris from the hilly and somewhat mountainous area of the Corbieres appellation in the

Western Languedoc region of France. It is a wonderfully crisp, lightly pressed, rosé style blend made from Grenache Gris, Grenache Noir, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, and Carignan. This Gris de Gris’s higher acidity, beautiful notes of fresh-picked red fruits and underlying clean minerality pair perfectly with an easy to pack, picnic Charcuterie plate of prosciutto, salami, soppressata, fresh fruits, cheese, and crackers. This summer, I hope you’re able to enjoy the amazing views in the High Country around you, coupled with these wine recommendations. Joshua Purdy is a Level 2 Sommelier. He is the Clubhouse/Food & Beverage Manager at the Blue Ridge Mountain Club in Blowing Rock, NC. Aside from the ability to work with different wines and culinary pairings every day, he loves interacting with the residents of the community and expanding the wine list.

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It’s Summer and Local Farmers are Cultivating More Than Crops

By Julie Farthing

here is a Latin term, “carpe diem,” which literally means “pluck the day.” Today it is more known as “seize the moment” —to be totally immersed in your environment without thought for tomorrow. Carpe diem is actually a horticultural metaphor that is more accurately translated as the plucking and gathering of ripening fruits or flowers, enjoying a moment that is rooted in the sensory experience of nature. The perfect place to practice this mantra is at your local farmers’ market. If you’ve never been to a farmers’ market, envision a county fair without the rides. For a few hours each week, empty parking lots and open fields across the High Country draw farmers, bakers, craftspeople, and musicians, much to the delight of eager shoppers. As the pink glow of sunrise emerges over the mountain, vendors set up tables and tents. Patrons arrive as the sun glides a bit higher, the air still cool and crisp. The unmistakable aroma of fresh- brewed coffee and baked goods waft through the air. Produce and flowers in all colors of the rainbow still retain the early morning dew. There is no doubt that the farmers’ market is an enchanting sensory delight. What used to be just a place to find local produce has morphed into a celebrated event all over the region. The term

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“1,000-miles fresher” was coined to recognize that eating local is not only good for you but good for farmers and the community. And while the freshest produce, eggs, meats, dairy, and baked goods are still the foundation of the market, artisans, musicians, flower growers and food trucks have been building on that original concept, creating a fellowship of vendors who offer a relationship between producers and consumers. Farmers’ Markets are spaces to bring the whole family and connect with the community. The oldest farmers’ market in the High Country is the Watauga County Farmers’ Market (WCFM), held every Saturday, May-November at the Horn in the West parking lot. The WCFM has been considered the town square of the High Country since 1974. The 100-percent producer-only market provides locally made and produced food, art, music and crafts in a mountain setting in the heart of Boone, NC. Matt Cooper, owner of Lively Up Farms, in Matney, NC has served as the president of the Board of Directors at WCFM for eight years. He says he is enjoying the ride of local food growth. “We have a few new vendors,” Cooper said of this year’s market. “There are more craft vendors this year as we are pretty much saturated with produce vendors unless it’s

something unusual. Last year our newest vendors were folks who brought fish from Caldwell County that they harvest and smoke. It’s going to be another wonderful, strong year—basically we have farmers, plant people, starter plants, vegetables, crafters where you can find wooden utensils and bowls, clay pottery, and bird houses. All these crafts are one hundred percent handmade and go through a craft jury.” Cooper added that food trucks are very popular at the market. “We have Betty’s Biscuits, and Bald Guy Coffee will have a new food truck.” Cooper emphasized the positive effect of local dollars spent in the community. “It also reduces our carbon footprint,” said Cooper, noting a “win-win” for both our health and the environment. And farmers’ markets not only provide healthy eating options, they also promote economic growth for both the farmer and the local community. The United States Department of Agriculture refers to the recycling of dollars spent at farmers’ markets as “The Multiplier Effect”—often returning more than three times as much of their sales back into their community compared to grocery store chains. Plus you get to spend a fun-filled day creating new friends and building relationships. Now that’s carpe diem.

For the true flavor of our region, stop by any of the markets listed below. Please note that while most of these markets will be open for the summer season, hours, locations and capacity may change due to COVID-19. Patrons need to check with each market prior to scheduling a trip.

If you can’t make it to one of the many markets held throughout the High Country, you can also shop online at the High Country Food Hub at https:// www.highcountryfoodhub.org for quality local food at the click of a button.

Abingdon, VA Farmers Market Saturdays 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., April – October Tuesdays 3 – 6 p.m. April - September Corner of Remsburg Dr. and Cummings St. Downtown Abingdon

Blowing Rock Farmers’ Market Thursdays 3 - 6 p.m. May 24 - September 24 132 Park Ave., Downtown Blowing Rock, NC

Ashe County Farmers’ Market Saturdays 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. April 20 - October 26 108 Backstreet, West Jefferson, NC

Johnson County Farmers’ Market Summer Market, 9 a.m. to Noon Saturdays May through October Ralph Stout Park in Mountain City, TN

Avery County Farmers’ Market Thursdays 4 - 6:30 p.m. Historic Banner Elk School Parking Lot 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC

Wilkes County Farmers’ Market Saturdays 7:30 a.m.-Noon, Tuesdays 3:30-5:30 p.m. April 18 - October Yadkin Valley Marketplace Downtown N. Wilkesboro

Watauga County Farmers’ Market Saturdays May through Oct, 8 a.m. - Noon November 9 a.m.-Noon 591 Horn in the West Dr, Boone King Street Farmers’ Market Tuesdays 4 - 7 p.m. May - October Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC

Morganton Farmers’ Markets Saturdays 8 a.m.-Noon April 24-October 31 300 Beach St., Morganton Wednesday Mini Market 12-4 p.m. May 6-October 28 111 North Green St. Morganton CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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“...Working to share the wonders of Grandfather in ways that are broader and deeper than ever before.”

1$=1 Step Closer To The Dream

DONATE AT www.grandfather.com/fulfillingpromises

CML carolina mountain life

Tamara Seymour Editor 828-406-8187 tamara@seymourcc.n

Read us online at CMLmagazine.com

Box 976 Us! | Linville, NC 28646 AdvertiseP.O.with

• The region’s most widely distributed high quality, full color, standard size magazine. • Four issues per year with 25,000+ copies per issue • Reasonable advertising rates and complete graphic arts department provides full advertising support • Carolina Mountain Life provides additional exposure via eBlasts, Facebook, Instagram, and website.

Email livingcarolina@bellsouth.net or call 828-737-0771

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FAQs about the Bare Dark Sky Observatory For more FAQs, photos of the Bare Dark Sky Observatory, and information on the Glenn and Carol Arthur Planetarium, please visit mayland.edu/observatory

Question: Where is the Bare Dark Sky Observatory Located?

Question: What can I expect to see through the telescope?

Answer: The address is 66 Energy Exchange Dr. in Burnsville. It is part of the Mayland Earth to Sky Park. It is off of Hwy 80N and shares an entrance with the Mitchell/Yancey Transfer Station.

Answer: The Bare Dark Sky Observatory houses the largest public telescope in North Carolina. Visitors may expect to see the rings of Saturn and the eye of Jupiter during parts of the year, deep space nebula, star clusters and more! Visitors of all ages are taken on a two hour tour of the night sky, led by experienced astronomers.

Question: What does it mean to be an International Dark Sky (IDA) Certiﬁed Park? Answer: The IDA designated the Earth to Sky Park as an IDA Certified Park in 2014 after a series of rigorous tests. According to the IDA website, the park “possessed an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, educational, cultural heritage or public enjoyment.” In order to keep certification, regular light readings are taken to determine light pollution levels in order to ensure continued darkness over time. Light pollution is a threat and part of what visitors learn at the Observatory are ways they can help reduce light pollution.

Question: Is the Bare Dark Sky Observatory open year-round? Answer: Yes! The winter and summer skies are quite different and there are many things to see year-round. Viewing times vary with the sunset and community viewing nights are held on Fridays and Saturdays. Private viewings are available on other nights.

Question: Why are there some weekends that don't have scheduled community viewing nights? Answer: The Observatory is not operational during times around the full moon. The sky is too bright to see other objects in the sky.

Question: What happens when it is cloudy or bad weather? Answer: In the event of clouds, rain, snow, or other inclement weather, the viewing nights are cancelled and ticket holders will receive a full refund. Many visitors come from out of town, so weather decisions are made 24-36 hours in advance of the event.

Question: How do I purchase tickets for a community viewing night? Answer: All tickets are purchased online at mayland.edu/observatory where you may select your viewing date in advance.

Question: When will the new planetarium open? Answer: The Glenn and Carol Arthur Planetarium is under construction and is scheduled to open in Summer 2020. Housed at the Mayland Earth to Sky Park, the Planetarium will have 64 seats and a state-of-the-art projection system. It will be open to the public for traditional astronomy shows, laser light shows, and more!

“The only name you need to know in mountain real estate” When you get serious about wanting superior, knowledgeable service in buying or selling real estate in our beautiful High Country, then contact Banner Elk’s oldest brokerage firm. Put 40 years experience in our local real estate market to work for you!

CELEBRATING

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SERVICE

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“Best Chicken Tenders Hands Down! “ Mon-Sat 10:30am - 9pm Sun 11pm - 6pm 828-737-0700 carolinabbqnewland.com Catering for 25 - 1200 people!

Voted Best BBQ in the High Country 15 years running! In Downtown Newland

NOW on Main St!

Be Be Happy! Happy! Buy Buy Happy! Happy!

Outdoor decor & furniture Unique lighting & artwork Boho style clothing & bedding T-shirts, hats, jewelry, & handbags Fresh NC Seafood (when available)

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

1108 S. Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC 336-219-0301

www.gregoryalans.com

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828.295.3330 1151 Main Street Blowing Rock, NC

Avery Animal Hospital Small Animal Medicine Surgical Services CO2 Surgical Laser Hill’s Science Diet & Prescription Diets In-house Laboratory Therapy Laser Treatments Cozy Boarding Dr. Brent Jewell 828-733-9810 351 W. Mitchell Street Newland, NC 28657

...showcasing Chef’s Table, “Banner Elk’s little hidden gem of fine dining.” Our Chef’s Table features gourmet fine dining with new tapas, sushi, cocktail menus, private dining, veranda, and VIP seating. Visit our website for our live entertainment schedules!

The Village of Banner elk in the heart of Downtown Banner Elk, NC BannerElkVillage.com

CHEF’S TABLE

140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk, NC

orts Bar Sorrento’s Bistro | Chef ’s Table | Barra Sp The Village of Banner Elk has something for everyone’s tastes—traditional Italian, gourmet fine dining, and international cuisine. And don’t miss our famous Sunday Brunch at Sorrento’s Bistro! We have indoor and outdoor entertainment, stocked bars, a wine room, a cigar lounge, exclusive NFL and college sports viewing, private dining, art galleries, karaoke, a family-friendly arcade and Banner Elk’s best billiards! Call 828.898.5214 for reservations.

Special Events & Catering: Corporate Events, Weddings, VIP Dining Parties Call 828.898.5214 | Email sorrentosburthuete@gmail.com

Inspire Your Tastebuds Painted Salad

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION NOW! 2941 tynecastle highway • banner elk (across from the entrance to Sugar Mountain)

828.898.6800

Catering Available | Open 7 days a week Mon-Sat 11am-9pm & Sunday Noon-9pm 190 Boone Heights Dr, Boone, NC 28607 Reservations Suggested 828-386-6101 – Visit our Banner Elk Location –

paintedfishcafe.com

CAFE & BAKERY

Caribbean Style Fare in a Unique Mountain Setting

DeliciousSandwiches

(Served on our homemade bread)

WORLD CLASS GREAT PRICE

Potato Vodka Potato Gin GLUTEN-FREE Available in the High Country

Pies • Cakes • Tarts Shepherd’s Pie Steak & Ale Pie Chicken Pot Pie English Specialties (On request)

Catering

Serving Dinner Twice Monthly Call or Check our Website for Dates & Menu

828.963.8228

www.eatcrownc.com Fabulous British Chef/Owner

Dominic & Meryle Geraghty

EAT PIE EAT CAKE EAT PIE EAT CAKE

Open Tuesday-Saturday 10:30am-3:30pm Closed Sunday & Monday Lunch served 11:00 - 3:00 9872 Hwy. 105 S. in Foscoe (Across from Mountain Lumber)

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488 Main St. W. Banner Elk • 828-898-7773

E M U

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B I S O N

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V E N I S O N

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E L K

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B O A R

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M O U N T A I N

T R O U T

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D U C K

an I N

F I N E

D I N I N G

AAA FOUR DIAMOND RATING SINCE 2007 3 0 0 5 S H U L L S M I L L R O A D B E T W E E N B O O N E & B L O W I N G R O C K | (8 2 8) 9 6 3 -74 0 0 | R E S E R VAT I O N S R E C O M M E N D E D

a passionate chef finds his peak Patrick Maisonhaute has been our head chef since 2006. Born in France, he has honed his culinary skills all over the world but chose Eseeola to truly cultivate a menu rich in flavors, fresh ingredients and taste. If you love fine dining, find your way to Eseeola, too.

The

Call for Reservations 800.742.6717 Eseeola.com

Eseeola Lodge CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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Exotic Teas | Spices & Herbs Salts & Sugars | Spice Blends Accessories | Gifts 1087 Main St., Unit 4 Blowing Rock NC | 828-372-7070

114 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

THE PERFECT DAY TRIP

AFTER ALL, LIFE IS SHORT AND TIME REALLY DOES FLY

Gideon Ridge Inn

WataugaLake Winery “Taste the Best of Tennessee!”

10 wonderfully comfortable bedrooms with evening turndown service Serving Dinner Tuesday - Saturday from 5:30pm - 8pm Reservations Required Dining & Cocktails Alfresco and the view... 202 Gideon Ridge Road, Blowing Rock, NC, 28605

gideonridge.com / 828-295-3644

Open Thursday - Monday, 11am - 6pm 6952 Big Dry Run Road, Butler, Tennessee 423-768-0345 • www.WataugaLakeWinery.com ••• Walk through history at our haunted, historical schoolhouse winery Enjoy daily deli specials and Sangria Saturdays featuring wood-fired pizza and our award-winning Sangria. •••

INTELLIGENT CHOICES FOR THE COMMON CRAVING

Villa Nove Vineyard Winery Open Sundays, 12pm - 6pm

Enjoy Wine Flights and Savory Sunday Picnic Baskets 1877 Dry Hill Road, Butler, Tennessee 423-768-3633 • www.VillaNoveVineyardsWinery.com

Lunch: 11 AM to 3 PM. | Dinner: 5 PM to 10 PM. Sunday Brunch: 11 AM to 3 PM. 143 Wonderland Trail, Blowing Rock, NC 28605

bistroroca.com / 828-295-4008 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

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...where everyday is a

Farmer’s Market!

fresh produce locally baked goods moravian pies • quiches boiled peanuts • pickles Jams • honey cheese & crackers artisan crafts & unique gifts tues-sun 9am-6pm May thru Dec Yummy Weekly Specials 828.963.8254 Hwy 105 South, Foscoe NC

owned & operated by

LETT-US PRODUCE

Wholesale Supplier of Fine Produce Est. 1993 • Boone NC 828.963.7254

Our 6th generation family farm makes farm- fresh cheese on site from our own happy dairy cows. Our farm store also offers other local goods! 828-756-8166 Fri-Sat, 10am-6pm, year-round 19456 US 221 North (.5 miles south of Linville Caverns) Marion, NC 28752

Gragg’s Produce

Veggies, Fruits Jams, Honey & More Charming hand-made Crafts & Birdfeeders Open Mon-Sat, 9-6 Sunday 10-5 828-719-5624 105 Linville Falls Hwy Pineola, NC

EAT, DRINK, BE SOCIAL... Lunch • Dinner • Full Bar Tues-Sat, 11am-9pm 128 Pecan Street Abingdon, Virginia (276)698-3159

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J E R KY • S E A S O N I N G S • H OT S AU C E S

Open Daily in Historic Valle Crucis & Tanger Outlets, Blowing Rock 828-260-6221 | www.JerkyOutpost.net

The High Country’s Premier Steak & Seafood Restaurant

Dinner Nightly from 5pm

SUMMER SPECIALS Martini & Comfort Food Mondays $7 House Martinis Comfort Food Specials

Wednesdays

25% off Bottles of Wine Pasta Specials

2019

828-898-5550 STONEWALLS RESTAURANT

“Avery County Chamber Business of the Year”

DOWNTOWN BANNER ELK125 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

344 Shawneehaw Ave. South | stonewallsrestaurant.com

From CML’s Kitchen CITRUS ARUGULA SALAD

Recipes & Photography by Meagan Murphy Goheen

Servings: 4

PAN SEARED SALMON WITH TUMERIC CILANTRO SAUCE

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

4 cups arugula 1 ripe avocado, halved, pitted, peeled, thinly sliced 1 grapefruit peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds 2 oranges peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds ¼ shelled pistachios, chopped

Ingredients:

Orange Poppy Seed Vinaigrette: 6 TBSP extra virgin olive oil 2 TBSP fresh squeezed orange juice 2 TBSP fresh squeezed lemon juice 2 TBSP honey (local preferred) 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp poppy seeds ½ tsp salt ½ tsp fresh cracked pepper

Directions

Mix together dressing ingredients in a mason jar, secure lid and shake until combined. To a salad bowl, add arugula, grapefruit, orange, avocado, pistachios; toss together with your orange poppy seed vinaigrette.

118 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

For the sauce: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp turmeric 4 garlic cloves fined minced 4 TBSP finely chopped cilantro Juice of ½ large lemon ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp cumin ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes ¼ tsp black pepper

For the salmon:

4 Salmon filets 2 TBSP extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper

Directions

Add sauce ingredients to food processor, pulse until combined. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place salmon fillets skin side down in the pan. Sear, untouched for about 5 minutes, flip and sear the other side for about 4 minutes. Top salmon with sauce. Turmeric has many health benefits. It is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It also helps to improve symptoms of depression and arthritis, and may have the potential to prevent heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer. Garlic gives your T-cells a boost in your bloodstream to help fight viruses. Garlic also contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and aging.

COMFORT FOOD WITH

made with love HEALTHY

BENEFITS

MATCHA LEMON BARS

THE BENEFITS:

Servings: 12

Benefits of pistachios: Pistachios are rich in Vitamin B6 and potassium, and high in antioxidants that prevent cell damage and play a key role in reducing the risk of disease.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

2 Sticks salted butter, cut into cubes 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup granulated sugar ¼ tsp salt Zest of 1 lemon

For the filling:

1 ½ cups sugar ¼ cup flour 4 eggs Zest of 3 lemons Juice of 4 lemons 1 ½ TBSP matcha green tea powder

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9 by 9-inch pan, line with parchment paper. Cut together butter, flour, granulated sugar and salt. Press into pan and bake for 20 minutes. For the filling: mix together sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice, eggs, flour and matcha powder until smooth. Pour over crust and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let cool completely and place in refrigerator for at least 2 hours until set. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares. Enjoy.

Benefits of avocado: Avocado is rich in Vitamin K, folate, Vitamin C, Potassium, and Vitamins B5, B6 and E. They are also full of antioxidants and healthy fats. Benefits of local honey: Local, raw honey has antimicrobial properties which make it a natural antiseptic used to help heal and help soothe inflammation. Benefits of Arugula: Arugula has calcium, which helps the blood to clot normally; potassium, a mineral and an electrolyte that’s vital for heart and nerve function; folate, a B vitamin; Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps support the immune system; and Vitamin K, which helps with blood coagulation. Benefits of Lemon: Lemons are high in Vitamin C, a natural antioxidant that enhances the immune system and has antiviral and antibacterial properties

Benefits of Matcha green tea powder: Matcha green tea powder boosts the immune system due to its high antioxidant content, including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that assists your body’s production of T-Cells, which reduces inflammation and fights pathogens. Benefits of garlic: Garlic gives your T-cells a boost in your bloodstream to help fight viruses. Garlic also contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and aging. CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 —

119

See the beauty. Taste the tradition. Feel at home. SUNSET DRIVE • BLOWING ROCK (One Block Off Main Street) Restaurant: 828-295-3466 Serving Dinner Inn: 828-295-9703 Music on the Lawn Fridays May–October

Celebrating 25 Years!

Ragged-Gardens.com

Watauga County

Farmers’ Market

SUSHI BISTRO AND BAR Monday-Saturday: 5-Close 161 Howard Street, Boone 828-386-1201 | www.cobosushi.com

"Providing consumers a market to obtain quality goods directly from local producers since 1974.”

Open Saturdays

May - Oct 8-12 / Nov 9-12

We accept EBT & SNAP

591 Horn in the West Dr., Boone, NC 28607 • 828.355.4918 wataugacountyfarmersmarket.org

120 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

loCk rocks by Loven Casting

Our rock-faced retaining wall system adds value and beauty to any landscaping or structural use. Choose the most convenient and versatile structural wall retaining systemâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;one that can be installed quickly and trusted to last. We also customize LOCK ROCKS in various colors and sizes to meet the needs of any project. Because we manufacture our products locally in the high country, we keep your construction costs lower and offer personalized service.

Add LOVEN to your next construction project!

Family owned since 1961 Serving the High Country and Beyond

Call 828-733-0525 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE Summer 2020 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 129 www.lovencasting.com

OUR SPONSORS: 51............A to Z Auto Detailing 46,68.......Abode Home & Design 37............Alta Vista Gallery 51............Amy Brown, CPA 26............An Appalachian Summer Festival 42............Appalachian Blind and Closet 88,90.......Appalachian Regional Healthcare System 97............Apple Hill Farm 48............Ashe County Chamber of Commerce 18............Autobell Car Wash 110..........Avery Animal Hospital 35,51.......Avery County Chamber of Commerce 20............Avery Heating 95............Avery County Transportation 85............Azalea Inn 100..........Banner Elk Book Exchange 110..........Banner Elk Realty 10............BannerElk.com 37............Banner Elk Olive Oil and Balsamics 12............Banner Elk Winery 88............Baker Center for Primary Care 111..........Barra Sports Bar 100..........Bayou Smokehouse & Grill 51............BB&T 37............BE Artists Gallery 112..........Beattie’s Distillers 70............Beech Mountain TDA 112..........Bella’s Italian Restaurant 115..........Bistro Roca 102..........BJ’s Resort Wear 68............Blossom Nails and Spa 36............Blue Mountain Metalworks 56............Blue Ridge Brutal 16............Blue Ridge Energy 4..............Blue Ridge Mountain Club 14............Blue Ridge Propane 112..........Bodegas Kitchen & Wine Bar 81............Boone Appetit 37............Boonies Old Country Store 68............Brinkley Hardware 93............Callista Designs 61............Carefree Boat Club 25............Carlton Gallery 110..........Carolina BBQ

114..........Casa Rustica 111..........Chef’s Table 69............Children’s Hope Alliance Golf Classic 14............Classic Stone 82............Compu-Doc 120..........CoBo Sushi Bistro & Bar 114..........CR Catering 51............Creative Interiors by Darlene Parker 49............Crossnore School for Children 68............David Patrick Moses Architects 2,71.........Dewoolfson 3..............Dianne Davant & Associates 8,68.........Distinctive Cabinetry of the HC 112..........Eat Crow Café 52............Echota 68............Edward Jones 68............Elevations Tavern & Grill 26............Elk River Club 51............Encore Travel 60............Engel & Volkers 116..........English Farmstead Cheese 104,68.....Erick’s Cheese and Wine 113..........Eseeola Lodge 82............F.A.R.M. Café 114..........Fairway Cafe 11............Footsloggers 61............Fortner Insurance 86............Fred’s General Mercantile 8..............Fuller & Fuller 113..........Gamekeeper 115..........Gideon Ridge Inn 61............Glen Davis Electric 116..........Gragg’s Produce 68............Grandfather Center Shoppes 54............Grandfather Home Visitors’ Center & Museum 123..........Grandfather Mountain 66............Grandfather Vineyard 110..........Gregory Alan’s Gifts 25............Hardin Fine Jewelry 46............Hemlock Inn 68............High Country ABC Store 44............High Country Animal Clinic 58............High Mountain Expeditions 51, 99......Highlander’s Grill and Tavern 50............Holston Camp & Retreat Center 48............Hunter’s Tree Service 36............Incredible Toy Company

120..........Italian Restaurant 116..........Jack’s 128 Pecan 116..........Jerky Outpost 50,100.....JW Tweeds 108..........Life Care of Banner Elk 80............Life Store Insurance 93............Linville Area Mountain Properties 68............Linville Animal Hospital 18............Linville Caverns 70............Linville Falls Winery 92............Linville Land Harbor 7..............Lodges at Eagles Nest 116..........Lost Province Brewing Company 121..........Loven Concrete 5..............Lucky Lily OBC.........Mast General Store 116..........Maw’s Produce 109..........Mayland Community College 96............Mike Smith Builders 97............Mountain Blue Gallery 86............Mountain Dog and Friends 68............Mountain Grounds Coffee & Tea 56............Mountain Jewelers 56............Mountaineer Landscaping 97............Mustard Seed Market 37............My Best Friend’s Barkery 68............New Force Comics 97............Old Greer House 112..........Painted Fish Café 86............Peabody’s Wine & Beer 51,97.......Peak Real Estate 114..........Pedalin’ Pig BBQ 82............Premier Pharmacy 68............Premier Sotheby’s International Realty 44............Ram’s Rack Thrift Shop 68............Reid’s Café & Catering 102..........Rivercross 63............Roan Mountain 68,82.......Root Down Hair Studio 36............Sally Nooney Art Studio Gallery 51............Salon Suites at Tynecastle 5..............SeeSugar.com 51............Shooz and Shiraz 25............Shoppes at Farmers 51............Shoppes 0f Tynecastle 82............Skyline/Skybest 111..........Sorrento’s Italian Bistro 114..........Stick Boy Bread Co.

96............Stone Cavern 117..........Stonewalls Restaurant 35............Sugar Mountain Golf and Tennis 93............Sugar Mountain Nursery 108..........Sugar Mountain Resort 61............Sugar Ski and Country 84............Sugar Top 56............Sunset Tee’s & Hattery 66............Tatum Gallery 43............The Bee & The Boxwood 120..........The Best Cellar 64............The Blowing Rock 69............The Cabin Store 42............The Consignment Cottage Warehouse 51............The Dande Lion 110..........The Happy Shack 120..........The Inn at Ragged Gardens 114..........The Spice & Tea Exchange 58............The Station at 19E 37............The Twisted Twig 5..............The Village of Sugar Mountain 68............The White Crow Wedding and Event Venue 6..............Tom Eggers Construction 36............Tom’s Custom Golf 36............Turchin Center for the Visual Arts 51............Tynecastle Builders 51............Tynecastle Realty 68............Ultimate Kitchens Direct 51............Valle de Bravo Mexican Grill 68............Verizon 115..........Villa Nove Vineyards Winery 46............Village Jewelers 59............Wahoo’s Adventures 26............Waite Financial 51............Walgreens Pharmacy 120..........Watauga County Farmers Market 115..........Watauga Lake Winery 90............Watauga Medical Center 68............Western Carolina Eye Associates 36............Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster 82............YMCA of Avery Co 58............Zaloos Canoes

thank you! 122 — Summer 2020 CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LIFE

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Get close to nature, and away from everything else.

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Black bears, otters, cougars, elk, even eagles. Experience them all in natural settings at Grandfather Mountain. For the time-being, admission is available online only. w w w. g ra n d f a t h e r. c o m

GRANDFATHERÂ® MOUNTAIN WONDERS NEVER CEASE