High Country Magazine | Vol 7 Issue 1 | August/September 2011

Volume 7 • Issue 1 August/September 2011

Savoring Summer Downhill Diehards • ASU’s Solar Homestead • Young Philanthropists

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High Country Magazine

September 2011

September 2011

High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

September 2011

September 2011

High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

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September 2011

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C O N T E N T S

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Will ASU Outshine in Solar Home Competition?

The spotlight—and the sunlight—is on the Appalachian State University Solar Decathlon team as they prepare to enter a student-designed and student-built solar-powered home in an international competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy. Working since 2009, the team is putting the finishing touches on its Solar Homestead before traveling to build and display the home on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. in September.

38 Blue Ridge Electric at 75

Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2011, and High Country Magazine traces the history of the High Country’s rural electric cooperative.

44 Fall in Love with Fashion

Though summer weather is likely to continue well into September, start planning your autumn outfits and accessories now with our look at the best of the season at the High Country’s finest clothing retailers.

56 The Fastest Way Down

With mountain bike parks in the area not even a year old, Beech Mountain Resort is looking to solidify the region’s reputation as a mountain biking destination when it hosts the USA Cycling Gravity Nationals this September. A thrilling, fast-paced, risk-taking ride whipping by trees and over boulders and dropoffs, downhill racing is more akin to punk rock than it is to Tour de France.

56 78

Young Philanthropists 78 The of Valle Crucis Founded in 2006 by a group of third-grade students at Valle Crucis Elementary, A.P.E. (Animals, People, Environment) has hosted events, collected donations and organized fundraisers to raise money for at least nine nonprofit organizations, garnering philanthropy awards from county and regional fundraising organizations.

86 On the Same Page Literary Festival

With a slate of nationally renowned authors to share their narratives and insights, Ashe County’s On the Same Page Literary Festival, held in September, is among the best celebrations of writing and reading in North Carolina.

92 The History of the Golf Cart

Golf carts have become ubiquitous forms of transportation over the past few decades—today common not only on the greens but also at stadiums, large events, medical centers and in neighborhoods. The father of the golf car industry—who has a home in Linville—shares his memories of the ingenuity, business savvy and market demands that shaped the growth of the personal transportation vehicle.

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High Country Magazine

September 2011

on the cover Lonnie Webster captured our family picnic scene for this issue’s cover. Lonnie is available for commissioned photography work including family portraits, individual portraits, family reunions, business events and weddings. You can find some of his work on www.lonniesphotography. com, call 828-295-7983 or email lonnie@lonniesphotography.com.

He lives in Blowing Rock on Sunset Drive.

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ABOUT US

SUBSCRIPTIONS

We are now offering subscriptions to High Country Magazine. A one-year subscription for seven issues costs $40, and we will mail issues to subscribers as soon as they arrive at our offices from the printer. To subscribe, call our offices at 828-264-2262.

Yves Delorme © 2011

The first High Country Press newspaper was published on May 5, 2005, and the first issue of High Country Magazine went to press in fall 2005. We publish the newspaper weekly and currently publish the magazine seven times a year. Both are free, and we distribute the newspaper and magazine in Watauga and Avery counties. Our newspaper is packed with information that we present and package in easy-to-read formats with visually appealing layouts.

The magazine represents our shared love of our history, our landscape and our people. It celebrates our pioneers, our lifestyles, our differences and the remarkable advantages we enjoy living in the mountains. Our guiding principles are twofold: quality journalism makes a difference and customer care at every level is of the greatest importance. Our offices are located in downtown Boone, and our doors are always open to welcome visitors.

BACK ISSUES

Back issues of our magazines are available from our office for $5 per issue. Some issues are already sold out and are no longer available.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography and page reprints are available for purchase. For sizing, prices and usage terms, please call our office. Some photos may not be available and some restrictions may apply.

ADVERTISING

Obtain information about advertising in our publications from our sales representatives by calling 828-264-2262 or emailing us at sales@highcountrypress.com.

Contact us at:

High Country Press/Magazine P.O. Box 152 130 North Depot Street Boone, NC 28607 www.highcountrypress.com info@highcountrypress.com 828-264-2262

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September 2011

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FRO M T HE PUB L ISH ER

A Publication Of High Country Press Editor & Publisher Ken Ketchie Creative Director Courtney Cooper Senior Graphic Artist Tim Salt Associate Editor Anna Oakes Ken Ketchie

What’s Going On in There?

F

or ASU and the High Country, this could even be bigger than the Michigan football game upset that rocked our community back in 2007! So says Ed Pavia, a spokesperson for Appalachian State’s Solar Decathlon project. So what’s this all about? It’s a project that’s been going on since the fall of 2009. And at the end of this September, it comes to completion when ASU competes in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The Decathlon is a global competition that first took place in 2002 as a way to encourage and motivate the world to embrace and develop solar technologies into homes that are both practical and affordable.

You can read all about in this month’s issue. Our staff writer Jesse Wood spent hours with the students working on this project in the Solar Homestead’s headquarters, a former car dealership building on Hwy. 421 near the New Market Center. You’ll find his story beginning on page 22. The project’s headquarters has been bustling over the last few months as the deadline approaches. Over the course of two years, more than 100 ASU students and faculty have worked on the design and construction of a 2000-square-foot-homestead that is powered completely by the sun. When the structure is done it will be loaded onto trucks and hauled up to D.C. and placed on the National Mall for two weeks.

Visiting their workplace is a fascinating look into the future. Not so much the workspace, but the future as seen through the eyes of students on a mission—working together and believing in a project that could change the world. The team members have rolled up their sleeves and pulled out their computers and tape measures. And along the way the students have even come up with technology that ASU hopes to patent. The Solar Decathlon has spawned many ideas that might revolutionize the way everyday homes are built in the future...and the students are all about it.

ASU will be competing against 19 other teams from universities across North America and a few from overseas. The Solar Decathlon Founder and Director Richard King, insinuated to High Country Magazine that ASU has a real chance of winning first place in the competition and gaining world-wide attention for their efforts. In this competition, there is no second or third place—only first place bragging rights.

After the competition is over and the ASU team heads back to Boone in October, it is very possible that a small college in the mountains of North Carolina will beat the likes of China, New Zealand, Belgium and other domestic renewable energy powerhouses.

When you challenge Ed Pavia about this being bigger than the Michigan upset . . . he just smiles and says “wait and see”. Well, we’ll know on October 1… by then football season will be heating up and the cool winds of autumn will be blowing through Kidd Brewer Stadium. Hopefully we’ll be celebrating another kind of upset with ASU’s Team Solar Homestead Decathlon!

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Advertising Sales Beverly Giles Contributing Writers Jesse Woods Celeste von Mangan Kristian Jackson Harris Prevost Contributing Photograhers Todd Bush Peter Morris Lonnie Webster Mark Roberts Kristian Jackson Jesse Woods Finance Manager Amanda Giles High Country Magazine is produced by the staff and contributors of High Country Press newspaper, which serves Watauga and Avery counties of North Carolina

HIGH COUNTRY MAGAZINE P.O. Box 152, Boone, NC 28607 828-264-2262 Follow our magazine online where each issue is presented in a flip-through format.

Check it out at:

HighCountryMagazine.com Reproduction or use in whole or part of the contents of this magazine without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Issues are FREE throughout the High Country. © 2011 by High Country Press. All Rights Reserved.

September 2011

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Calendarof Events Calendar # 1 26-9/11

Ensemble Stage: Going to See the Elephant, Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 828-414-1844

25-27

Fall Plant Sale, ASU Biology Greenhouse, Dale Street, Boone, 828-262-4025

26

Gillian Welch in Concert, Farthing Auditorium, ASU,

828-262-4046 26-27

Daniel Rodriguez: Be My Love, Hayes Center, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

26-27

Music on the Mountaintop, Grandfather Campground,

Foscoe, 919-818-2614 26-28

Banner Elk Paint-Out, Avery Arts Council gallery, Linville, and The Art Cellar Gallery, Banner Elk, 828-733-0054

High Country Half Marathon, Kidd Brewer Stadium,

27

ASU, www.triplecrown.appstate.edu

Gillian Welch, August 26

AUGUST 2011 20-21 20

Fine Arts and Master Craft Festival, Banner Elk Treasure Island, Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 828-414-1844

20

Exhibition Reception: Dot Griffith & Kim Penney: Photographic Views, The Art Cellar Gallery, Banner Elk,

828-898-5175

20

27

Gillian Welch in Concert, Farthing Auditorium, ASU, 828-262-4046

Elementary School, 828-898-5605

27

Mountain Home Music: Bluegrass Musical Revue, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Boone, 828-964-3392

27

Michael Feinstein Performance, Farthing Auditorium, ASU, 828-719-1048

SEPTEMBER 2011

Mountain Home Music: Quilter’s Show and Quilter’s Song, Meadowbrook Inn and Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 828-964-3392

2

Concert on the Lawn: Audan Parks & Soul Benefactor, Jones House, Boone, 828-264-1789

2

Downtown Boone Art Crawl, downtown Boone galleries and studios, 828-262-4532

20

Street Dance at Town Hall, Beech Mountain, 828-387-4236

20

The Isaacs, Hayes Center, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

21

Classical Pianist Julian Gargiulo, Hayes Center,

2-4

Two Docs, a Hawk and a Stone Reception, Cannon

Concert on the Lawn: Dashboard Hula Boys & Hot Duck Soup, Jones House, Boone, 828-264-1789

3

High Country Beer Fest, Broyhill Inn, Boone, 828-262-2204

4

Mile High Kite Festival, Beech Mountain, 828-387-4236

2-3

High Country Fairgrounds, Boone, 828-733-8060

21

3

26 26

Community Bonfire, Buckeye Lake, Beech Mountain, 828-387-4236

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September 2011

Heritage Day: Turn of the Century Arts and Crafts, Banner House Museum, 828-898-3634

Hospital’s Dickson Gallery, Linville, 828-733-0054

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Hayes Center,

Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

Boone Bike Rally with Musical Guest Molly Hatchet,

DON’T FORGET

EVENTS

Hiking & Biking Trails Open Through Sunday, October 16th

Music on the Mountaintop Music on the Mountaintop returns for a fourth consecutive year, this year moving to Grandfather Campground in Foscoe. The two-day festival features Sam Bush, 7 Walkers, Railroad Earth, the Infamous Stringdusters, Acoustic Syndicate, Greensky Bluegrass and many local and regional favorites, as well as a Green Village, vendors, camping and more. The festival’s dates are Friday and Saturday, August 26 and 27.

AUGUST 26 and 27

High Country Beer Fest Now in its fourth year, the High Country Beer Fest has quickly become one of the most indemand events of the year, with tickets expected to sell out once again. The event takes place at the Broyhill Inn on Saturday, September 3. Last year, 57 breweries were represented.

SATURDAY September 3

Grandfather Mountain Kidfest A day designed to get kids excited about the nature and culture of the North Carolina mountains, Grandfather Mountain’s annual Kidfest takes place Saturday, September 10. Activities include guided hikes, games, crafts storytellers, music and tours of the mountain’s animal habitats.

SATURDAY September 10

Miles of hiking and biking trails intertwine throughout the Village of Sugar Mountain. Trail access is free of charge. Trail maps are available online or in a black, marked mailbox located at the base of the Flying Mile slope.

Weekend Scenic Chairlift Rides Through Monday, September 5th Chairlift rides are available every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am until 5:30 pm. Bring the whole family, a picnic lunch, your mountain bike, or just a friend and enjoy a breathtaking forty-five minute roundtrip lift-ride to Sugar’s 5,300 foot peak. You’ll love the Autumn foliage along the way!

Yodel Lah He Ho - Oktoberfest Saturday, October 8th and Sunday, October 9th Enjoy a two-day Oktoberfest on Sugar Mountain. The event features live German music, German and American food & beverages; a children’s fun center; hay rides; a local & regional art/craft fair; chairlift rides; winter sports shop preseason sale, 40-70% off select items; performances by Avery Smooth Dancers & Mountain Laurel Cloggers; lodging specials and much more. www.skisugar.com/oktoberfest

Sugar Mountain Resort

1009 Sugar Mountain Drive • Sugar Mountain, NC 28604

www.skisugar.com • (828) 898-4521 September 2011

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The Isaacs, August 20

4

The Time Jumpers, September 16

Mountain Home Music: Labor Day Celebration,

21-23

Painting the Landscape with Photographic References Workshop, Carlton Gallery, Banner Elk, 828-963-4288 Visiting Writers Series: Jeff Daniel Marion, Belk Library

First Baptist Church, Boone, 828-964-3392

9

Concert on the Lawn: Mountain Laurels & The ForgetMe-Nots, Jones House, Boone, 828-264-1789

9

Sunset Stroll, Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock, 828-295-6991

22-25

9-11

Weekend Writers Workshop, Valle Crucis Conference

Center, 828-963-4453

10

Art in the Park, American Legion Grounds,

Blowing Rock, 828-295-7851

10

10-11

Kidfest, Grandfather Mountain, 828-733-2013 Taylor 2 Dance Company, Hayes Center, Blowing Rock,

828-295-9627 10-11

Railfan Weekend, Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock,

877-893-3874

11

Concert in the Park: The Flying Saucers, Memorial Park,

22

Lecture Hall 114, 828-262-2871

11

Blowing Rock Jazz Society: Ron Brendle Trio,

Meadowbrook Inn, Blowing Rock, 828-295-4300

13-15

The Art of Writing Sermons, Valle Crucis Conference Center, 828-963-4453

14-17

24

15

828-387-2011

24

15

Sally Mayes: Broadway My Way, Hayes Center, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

25

Commedia Cinderella, Hayes Center, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

29

Dancing with the High Country Stars, Hayes Center,

Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

30

Ghost Train Halloween Festival Begins,

Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock, 877-893-3874

OCTOBER 2011

1

On the Same Page Literary Festival, West Jefferson,

Lecture: Photographer Doug Holstein, Martin House,

1-2

Blowing Rock, 828-295-9099

Brews & Views Beer Festival, Beech Mountain Resort,

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum Grand Opening,

Main Street at Chestnut Street, 828-295-9099

336-846-ARTS

USA Cycling Mountain Biking Gravity Nationals, Beech Mountain Resort, 828-387-2011

Blowing Rock, 828-295-7851

Brews ‘n Views Beer Fest, September 24

Visiting Writers Series: Christopher McDougall, Plemmons Student Union Blue Ridge Ballroom, 828-262-2871

1

Art in the Park, American Legion Grounds, Blowing Rock, 828-295-7851 Autumn at Oz Party, old Land of Oz theme park, Beech Mountain, 828-387-9283

2

Concert in the Park: Die Rhinelanders Oktoberfest Band, Memorial Park, Blowing Rock, 828-295-7851

16

Power of the Purse Luncheon featuring Claire Robinson, Blowing Rock Country Club, 828-264-4007

6

Visiting Writers Series: David Madden, Plemmons Student Union Table Rock Room, 828-262-2871

16

Concert on the Lawn: Matt Kinman & Lisa Baldwin and Dave Haney, Jones House, Boone, 828-264-1789

7

Downtown Boone Art Crawl, downtown Boone

16

The Time Jumpers featuring Vince Gill, ‘Ranger Doug’ Greene, Dawn & Kenny Sears and Paul Franklin,

8

Katona Twins, Hayes Center, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

8

Mountain Home Music: Piano Man of the Blue Ridge,

Farthing Auditorium, ASU, 828-262-4046

17

Run for the Red, Valle Crucis Elementary School, 828-264-8226

17

Watauga Humane Society Fur Ball, Broyhill Inn and

galleries and studios, 828-262-4532

Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 828-964-3392

9

Conference Center, ASU, 828-264-1743

18

Christian Artist Guy Penrod, Hayes Center, Blowing Rock, 828-295-9627

14

High Country Magazine

September 2011

Blowing Rock Jazz Society: Todd Wright All Stars,

Meadowbrook Inn, Blowing Rock, 828-295-4300

15

Mountain Home Music: Banjo Jubilee, Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 828-964-3392

DON’T FORGET

EVENTS

CARLTON GALLERY Celebrating 29Years

Tweetsie Railroad Railfan Weekend An event for railroad enthusiasts of all ages, Tweetsie Railroad’s Railfan Weekend takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 10 and 11. Take a journey back in time behind Tweetsie’s coalfired steam locomotives and learn about the historic era of the narrow-gauge East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad. The weekend includes train shop tours, photo specials, cab rides, documentary screenings and more.

SEPTEMBER 10 and 11

Mid-Summer Exhibition Continues - September 15

“Blessings for Peace” by Toni Carlton

August 27 – September 20 • Artist Reception August 27 2-4

Jewelry Trunk Show Avery Tour de Art August 27 – 12-3

4th Saturdays’ 10-5

PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • SCULPTURE • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Hwy. 105 Grandfather Community

BRAHM Grand Opening

TUESDAY-SATURDAY 10:00-5:00 • SUNDAY 11:00-5:00 8 2 8 - 9 6 3 - 4 2 8 8 • Call or check our website for workshop dates www.carltonartgallery.com • info@carltonartgallery.com

Finally, the much-anticipated opening of the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is here! Beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 1, the new museum, located on the corner of South Main and Chestnut streets downtown, will open its doors for a grand opening celebration featuring the exhibitions Elliott Daingerfield: His Life and Work in Western North Carolina and The Legend of the Blowing Rock.

SATURDAY October 1

Autumn at Oz Thousands flock to the gusty peak of Beech Mountain for the annual Autumn at Oz Party, which celebrates the memories of the old Land of Oz theme park on the mountain. Taking place Saturday and Sunday, October 1 and 2, Autumn at Oz leads visitors down the Yellow Brick Road to meet Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, the Tin Man and Toto. The event also includes food and activities of a traditional fall festival.

OCTOBER 1 and 2

September 2011

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mountain

echoes

Insider tips, fascinating facts, conversation starters and fun stuff to do

Boone Heritage Festival October 8

aA

Squire Boone Cabin on site. For more information, call 828-264-6390.

crisp nip in the air, the sun glinting through russet and gold leaves

Come early and savor the many local offerings from the Watauga

and the smell of simmering apple but-

Farmers’ Market, which is open Saturday mornings until noon. Fall gar-

ter. Ah, it’s fall—time to celebrate the

dens offer a bountiful harvest including

passing of another bountiful summer

local heirloom apples, winter squashes

and look forward to the coming of

and pumpkins, fresh greens and much

the inaugural Boone Heritage Festival

more. Along with fresh local produce,

hosted by Hickory Ridge Living History

folks will find homemade jams, jellies,

Museum.

breads, pasta, sauces, cheeses and that’s just a few of the goodies offered by ven-

Southern Appalachian Historical

dors. For more info on the market, call 828-355-4918.

Association, in conjunction with celebrating 60 years of serving the community, is making preparations for

HAPPENINGS

Step back into the past for a day with the whole family and take

the very first Boone Heritage Festival to be held Sat-

home the memories of a bygone era. Come enjoy the Boone Heritage

urday, October 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hickory

Festival at 591 Horn in the West Drive in Boone. For more information,

Ridge Living History Museum, long a destination for

call 828-264-2120.

history buffs, is will host the event. Located in 35-acre Daniel Boone Park, the museum is located in the heart of Boone, but it’s not at all

By Sharon S. Kimball

The Tatum Family

difficult to imagine the intrepid traveler, Daniel

As the oldest structure on site at Hickory

Boone, sitting on the porch of the Tatum Cabin

Ridge Living History Museum, Tatum Cabin

swapping yarns with visitors. The museum

is the cornerstone of the history the museum

showcases and preserves eight cabins and

preserves. Tracing the origins of the Tatum

log outbuildings, offers

family in Western North Carolina helps us

hands-on experiences in

understand, through one family’s history,

18th century skills and

the settlement of the region and the cultural

activities, such as candle-

heritage that took root as early settlers pen-

making, hearthside cook-

etrated the Appalachian Mountains.

Revolutionary war veteran Captain James

ing, as well as flintlock

ASU archeology students excavate the Tatum Cabin in 1992.

rifle and blacksmithing

Tatum is credited as the first of the Tatum line

a cabin about 1765, according to Dr. Whyte, no

demonstrations. Festival-

to bring his family and establish a permanent

artifacts were uncovered that would indicate

goers can experience hands-on history as well

residence along the New River. The construc-

any habitation before 1790,” states Canipe.

as musical performances, storytelling, crafts,

tion of Tatum Cabin dates back to the late 18th

The uncle who employed young James

food, children’s activities, a raffle and an after-

century. Author and SAHA board member

was William Tatham, born in 1752 in Cumber-

noon square dance.

Steve Canipe explains that ASU archeologist

land, England. At that time the area would

Dr. Tom Whyte and biology colleague Dr. Gary

have been part of Rowan County, which ini-

admission for the day. The gardens, a project

Walker used log core samples in an effort to

tially included the entire western sector of the

of the Garden Club of North Carolina, plays

determine a conclusive date but were unable

state with no clear western boundary. Family

an important part in the preservation of his-

to obtain definitive results. Whyte and his stu-

history suggests that William initially rented

tory of the mountain region. Visitors can stroll

dents spent four days in the summer of 1992

or leased his land from the Cherokee.

through carefully tended beds of rare or en-

excavating the original cabin site for a move to

dangered native plants, then visit the historic

Hickory Ridge. “While family records indicate

Daniel Boone Native Gardens will offer free

16

High Country Magazine

September 2011

By Sharon S. Kimball

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mountain

FOOD & FARM

High Country Beer Fest Among Nation’s Best Tickets for the event, which lasts from 3:00

Beer Festivals by the Road Trip for Beer website.

According to a press release, festivals were

p.m. to 7:00 p.m., are $30 and can be picked up

selected for inclusion based on “being destina-

at Peabody’s Wine and Beer Merchants or at

tions that are road-friendly with much to do

Bulldog Beer and Wine on King Street.

Profits from the festival support

and see in the surrounding area.”

hH

igh Country beer drinkers don’t have to go too far to find one of the top beer

festivals on the planet.

The High Country Beer Fest, scheduled for

Some of the other locations for

the ASU Foundation and local not-for-

the top 10 festivals were San Di-

profit agencies. This year a portion of

ego, Atlanta, Tampa and Munich,

the proceeds will go to the Appala-

Germany.

chian Women’s Fund.

For more info on the festival, click to www.

The event, which welcomed 57 craft breweries last year and has expectations for more

hcbeerfest.com and you can read the complete

this year, is in its fourth year. While it is a haven

list by clicking to www.roadtripsforbeer.com.

Saturday, September 3, at the Broyhill Inn in

for beer consumers, the event also boasts live

Boone, was named one of the top 10 Summer

music, education seminars and food.

By Jason Gilmer

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF LEATHER .

Wesley Hall VISIT OUR SHOWROOM THURS-SAT OR BY APPOINTMENT • 828-898-6110 • TOLL -F REE: 1-866-561-5858 V ILLAGE OF S UGAR M OUNTAIN • BANNER ELK, N ORTH C AROLINA Located in the Village of Sugar Mountain, on Hwy 184. Turn at the entrance of Sugar Mountain Ski Resort onto Sugar Mtn Drive, second right onto Dick Trundy Lane, first building on the left.

September 2011

www.maplesleather.com High Country Magazine

17

mountain

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ARTS

Sharyn McCrumb Crafts Retelling of “Wilkes County is getting Tom Dooley Legend to say, ‘This is our story. oO Let’s finally take a good ften, beloved and award-winning Appalachian writer Sharyn

McCrumb—whose acclaimed works include The Ballad of Frankie

Silver, about a Morganton woman hanged for the axe murder of her

look at it.’”

husband—is asked to lend her pen to other well-known legends.

~Sharyn McCrumb

“Tom Dooley’s the one that came up more than any-

County was hung in 1868 for the stabbing of

thing else,” McCrumb said. For

Laura Foster, although many suspected his

a long time, she resisted. It all

lover, Ann Melton, of the crime. The story be-

sounded like an episode of

came famous throughout the country when the Kingston Trio recorded

“The Jerry Springer Show” to

the “Hang Down Your Head, Tom Dooley” tune in 1958.)

her, and she wanted nothing to do with it.

McCrumb enlisted the help of a number of Wilkes County researchers and historians in writing the novel.

But then Blue Ridge Country magazine asked the Virginia-based author to write a 1,500-word article on the Tom Author Sharyn McCrumb holds the fid-

Dooley story, and, through her

dle that belonged to Tom Dula at the

research, McCrumb concluded

Tom Dooley Museum of the Whippoor-

that the stories didn’t add up.

will Academy in Ferguson.

“Once I made up my mind to write the story, I didn’t want

to just repeat fairytales,” she said. “I wanted to know what really happened.” And so comes the latest in McCrumb’s famed Ballad series—The Ballad of Tom Dooley. (And in case you didn’t know, Tom Dula of Wilkes

“I’m really pleased that the people who really are scholars and worked on this are getting to share in this,” she said. “Wilkes County is getting to say, ‘This is our story. Let’s finally take a good look at it.’”

McCrumb uncovered missing pieces of the story that will shock those who think they already know what happened, and new information unearthed by her research may also bring belated justice to an innocent man.

The official book launch will take place on Monday, September 12, at Wilkes Community College, only 15 miles away from the site of Foster’s death. The author will visit Black Bear Books in the Boone Mall for a book signing on Tuesday, September 13, at 7:00 p.m. For more info, click to www.SharynMcCrumb.com.

By Anna Oakes

JAM Youth Music Program Starts September 15

w W

atauga Arts Council’s (WAC) Junior Ap-

County, WAC started its own

“They are passing not only

palachian Musicians program (JAM)

version at the Jones House

the music along, but the stories

invites second-to 12th-grade students of all

five years ago. Mark Freed,

that go with the songs, and they

playing levels for fiddle, banjo, guitar and

folklorist for the WAC, has

make a personal and regional

mandolin to enroll for 2011-12. The program is

seen the program influence

connection to the music,” Freed

halfway full, but spots are still available.

many kids.

said.

The 50-minute classes are held at the Jones

Instructors for the 2011-

For more information, click

House in downtown Boone each Thursday at

12 JAM are Cecil Gurganus,

to www.watauga-arts.org or

4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. from September 15

Randy and Deborah Jean

www.jaminfo.org. To enroll,

through April. The program costs $100, and

Sheets, Amanda Spencer and

contact Freed at 828-264-1789

children may rent an instrument for an extra

Jeff Moretz. Freed said these

or mark@watauga-arts.org.

$25 for the 2011-12 JAM year. Class sizes range

musicians are great instruc-

from four to eight students. Though the JAM

tors, and they have immersed themselves in

program began 11 years ago in Alleghany

the music, culture and traditions of Appalachia.

18

High Country Magazine

September 2011

By Jesse Wood

mountain

FAN FARE

Preseason Honors for Mountaineers

tT

echoes

he coaches who compete against ASU each Saturday think the

named to the first team. Quick, running back Travaris Cadet, offensive

Mountaineers can claim a seventh straight Southern Conference

lineman Matt Ruff, linebacker Brandon Grier and punter Sam Martin were

championship. Media members who cover the league believe it’s time for Georgia Southern to reclaim its perch on top. Pre-

named to the second team. Cadet was also named as the second-team return specialist.

season polls were recently released by the two groups, with ASU capturing the coaches’ poll 60-59 over Georgia Southern and the Eagles winning the media’s poll 254-

Breitenstein Grabs Two Preseason Honors Former Watauga High School

249. These two teams will play a 3:00 p.m. game on Satur-

Presley

day, October 29, at Kidd Brewer Stadium.

Quarterback DeAndre Presley, who threw for 2,631 yards and 21 scores while rushing for 1,039 yards and 13 scores, has been named to the watch list for the Walter Payton Award, which is given to the country’s top

football standout Eric Breitenstein and 19 other players across the country were named to the official “watch list” for the Walter Payton Award.

Breitenstein also was named

FCS offensive player. He finished third for the honor last season. Presley and wide receiver Brian Quick were each named to

the Southern Conference Pre-

the preseason All-American team by the Sports Network.

season Offensive Player of the

was among the country’s top

Year. Breitenstein led the SoCon

five rushers.

Presley led a group of five Mountaineers on the first team All-Southern Conference team. Offensive lineman Orry Frye, tight end Ben Jorden, defensive lineman John Rizor and defensive back Ed Gainey were also

in rushing last season with 1,639 yards and 22 touchdowns. He

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High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

21

Outshining the Competition

ASU’s Journey to the Solar Decathlon in D.C. Story by Jesse Wood

22

High Country Magazine

September 2011

W

ith about a month until the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon in Washington, D.C., ASU’s Solar Homestead headquarters is bustling like an ant colony. The team is excited, but not frantic or nervous.

“Anxious might be the right word. We’re past the point of ‘Oh my god! Is the system going to work?”

David Lee, communications manager for the team, said. “I don’t feel nervous because I’m really confident in our abilities, but I do think we are anxious to get through the all-nighters, finish the house and take a deep breath.”

Though the 2011 Decathlon takes place this fall, ASU started preparing for the competition in fall 2009, when faculty members Jamie Russell and Chad Everhart organized a class of graduate students to write the proposal to enter the Decathlon. In April 2010, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) selected ASU along with 19 other teams from the U.S. and

around the world—from places such as China, Canada, New Zealand and Belgium—for the competition.

“We fell in love with [ASU’s design] as soon as we saw it in the proposal stage,” Richard King, director of the Solar Decathlon, said. “We had over 40 proposals from universities around the world, [and] they were definitely in that top echelon of 20 that we picked.”

King, who has worked for DOE since 1986, began developing the Decathlon in 1999. He said one reason he created the competition was to “tap into the creative genius of the 20-year-old college student to design and build houses.” Other objectives were to educate a workforce of talented, motivated students interested in renewable energy and to challenge misconceptions about solar power.

“Great houses with solar systems will never go anywhere if the people don’t want it, demand it, understand it and buy it,” King said. “This [competition] is just a way of motivating people to move quicker and make progress.”

September 2011

High Country Magazine

23

In the spring of 2010, the team designed a scaled model of the Solar Homestead that they constructed to apply for entry into the competition. Photos courtesy of ASU Solar Homestead

The Decathlon has come a long way since its first competition in 2002, when 80,000 people visited the village of solar homes on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Russell said the houses for the competition back then looked “basically like mobile homes with solar panels slapped on them.” In fact, an Airstream RV trailer was part of University of Texas’ design that first year.

During the last competition, held in 2009, more than 307,000 people toured the solar homes. This year ASU’s Solar Homestead, along with the other houses, will sit on National Mall’s West Potomac Park, which is in between the F.D.R. Memorial and the Potomac River.

ASU’s house design concept is based on the ingenuity and independence of the original Appalachian settlers.

“We took this traditional homesteading idea, where you have this self-sufficient collection of buildings working together—spring house, smoke house, chicken coop and your living quarters,” Lee said. “And we took that idea and related it to solar power and technology and modern sustainable living.”

ASU’s solar home consists of 984 feet of conditioned space—atmospherically controlled space, i.e., air conditioned space—and another 1,000 feet of deck space. The core part of the home is 864 square feet.

Another 120 feet of conditioned space called the flex space is on the deck. This flex space, also known as the 24

High Country Magazine

September 2011

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Off Bamboo Road. mother-in-law suite, could be used as an office or a guest room, said Ed Pavia, media coordinator for the team.

The Solar Decathlon rules state that the homes can’t have more than 1,000 feet of conditioned space, and the Solar Homestead totals nearly 2,000 square feet of both conditioned and non-conditioned space.

“We read the rules and bent them,” Pavia said. “Our [house] is one of the biggest homes to ever be in the competition.”

Like all the houses in the competition, ASU’s Homestead is designed to be completely powered by the sun—no other renewable energies or fossil fuels will power the home.

The house contains 42 Sanyo bi-facial solar panels (PV) that act as a canopy and roof over the outside decking. The PV system is sized to produce 8.2 kilowatthours.

“We sized the system a bit larger than what we would need in Boone,” Heather Kinsey, lead PV and electrical designer, said. “If we have cloudy days [in D.C.] we will be able to overcome that with the sheer size of the system.”

Kinsey said that bifacial modules receive light energy from both sides—from the sun in the sky and the sun’s reflections from below—which increases the modules performance by 30 percent. She said the panels are aesthetic, too, and that a few panels will be used for solar thermal skylights. “We’ve taken these solar panels that allow light to come through and made it multi-functional,” Kinsey said. “Not only is it a small power plant on your house or porch and provides shading, but they just look damn sexy.”

Kinsey’s skill and knowledge growth during the project is proof that the Decathlon is working the way King envisioned. Before Kinsey joined the Homestead team in spring 2010, she designed and installed a PV system at Valle Crucis Community Park as part of an independent study. She has since played a significant role in the Homestead, designing and installing its PV system. “I had a really strong interest in this particular renewable

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High Country Magazine

25

The graphics design team for the ASU Solar Homestead created artist renditions of the home set in the Appalachian countryside. Photo illustrations courtesy of ASU Solar Homestead

26

High Country Magazine

September 2011

Want To See the ASU Solar Homestead?

In Washington, D.C. Public tours of the Solar Decathlon are free to the public.

The houses are displayed on the National Mall’s West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C. The Solar Decathlon houses and surrounding solar village are open September 23 to October 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends. For directions, maps and more information, click to www.solardecathlon.org.

In Boone The Solar Homestead headquarters, located at 1100 East King Street in Boone, will have a public exhibit day on Saturday, August 27, at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Each tour will last about 45 minutes.

After returning from the competition, the Solar Homestead’s future isn’t set in stone, yet. The home may be set up temporarily in downtown Charlotte during the Energy Star conference, and David Lee, communications manager for the team, said the team would love to tour with the home around the state.

Eventually, the home will reside on the ASU campus with other past renewable energy projects to create a sustainable neighborhood, Lee said. These buildings would be useful as residences and offices but also as an educational tool to teach the public about the benefits of renewable energy, Lee said.

September 2011

High Country Magazine

27

During the construction of the Solar Homestead at its headquarters, which used to be a car dealership, the team had Friday afternoon cookouts. “Food and teamwork is how we keep the good vibes going,” David Lee, communications manager for the team, said. Photo courtesy of ASU Solar Homestead

energy, so pursuing it through this project was very exciting,” Kinsey said. “The [Homestead project] is incredibly dynamic, and I’ve learned more than I could ever have imagined being fresh out of [my independent study].” She also expressed another one of King’s visions for the Decathlon: “This project illustrates how architecturally amazing and mainstream renewable energy can be.”

For renewable energy to become more prevalent among communities, it must be affordable to the average citizen, and the 2011 Decathlon addressed this issue by adding an affordability contest—with a sliding point scale—for the first time. If a house costs less than $250,000, the team receives all 100 points. If a house costs more than $600,000, the team receives no points in the contest. This change came about because the winners of the last two competitions had very expensive homes—upwards of $1 million. “Solar works both for multi-million dollar homes and Habitat for Humanity homes,” King said. “[This contest] is more appropriate for the times in our recession, and it’s going to show people…that solar does not have to be expensive.”

ASU’s Homestead has been appraised in between $325,000 and $350,000. Lee said it would be tough to get all of the affordability points when balancing cost with the latest energy-efficient technology.

“That’s what the American homebuyer is doing, so that is what we are trying to do,” Lee said. “$250,000 to $350,000 sounds like a ton of money for a 1,000-squarefoot house. It costs so much because it’s a competition house, not what would be mass produced.”

The total budget for the Solar Homestead project is $900,000. This budget includes paying for the 28

High Country Magazine

September 2011

construction of the house, paying the team members to work on the Solar Homestead (so they can commit their time fully to the project), transportation to and from Washington, D.C., and accommodations. Lee said that nearly $700,000 was donated by local and national businesses and organizations, including the $100,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy for being among the top 20 teams selected. ASU Renewable Energy Initiative (ASUREI) donated $60,000 for the team to purchase the 42 bi-facial PV modules.

“That’s really cool—[ASUREI] is a student-funded, student-run group donating to a student-run project,” Lee said. ASUREI is funded by ASU students, who pay a $5 fee to fund renewable energy projects, such as the Broyhill Inn wind turbine, Plemmons Student Union solar thermal system and now the Solar Homestead.

Lowe’s, the biggest supporter, donated $350,000, and two High Country businesses donated more than $25,000—Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation and Mountain Lumber Company.

“Once we discovered this project, we wanted to be a part of it,” Brent Simmons, general manager of Mountain Lumber Company, said. “It aligns with the views we have for building and what we want to do here. It just made sense to be a part of it.”

Many businesses, organizations and people are excited and support this project, but the Solar Homestead’s No. 1 fan and the person able to connect the Homestead with supporting donors and businesses is ASU Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock. When Gov. Beverly Perdue visited a local elementary school this summer, Peacock told her, “They aren’t going to compete; they are going to win!” Ever since Peacock first

Solar Decathlon Contests Like the Olympic decathlon, the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon consists of 10 contests. These contests are designed to gauge how well the houses perform and how livable and affordable they are. Each contest is worth a maximum of 100 points, for a competition total of 1,000 points. Contests based on task completion or monitored performance are called measured contests; contests based on jury evaluation are called juried contests. For more information, click to www.solardecathlon.org.

Listed below are the 10 contests of the Decathlon: • Architecture (juried) • Market Appeal (juried) • Engineering (juried) • Communications (juried) • Affordability (juried) • Comfort Zone (measured) • Hot Water measured) • Appliances (measured) • Home Entertainment (measured and juried) • Energy Balance (measured) Teams can earn points three ways: 1. Task completion: Teams complete household tasks such as cooking, washing dishes and doing laundry.

Team Germany celebrates winning the 2009 U.S. DOE Solar Decathlon.

Their million-dollar house caused future competition rules to change.

The 2011 competition features an affordability criterion for the first time.

The teams get the full 100 points if their homes cost less than $250,000.

Photo courtesy of U.S. DOE Solar Decathlon

2. Monitored performance: Team houses perform to specified criteria, such as maintaining a comfortable (71°–76°F) indoor temperature range.

3. Jury evaluation: Jurors who are experts in their field, such as architecture, engineering and communications, award points for features that cannot be measured, such as aesthetics and design inspiration.

September 2011

High Country Magazine

29

found out about the project in early 2010, he has been a fervent supporter. “He has done so much—everything in his power to open doors…and connect us to some of the biggest supporters,” Lee said. “[He is also] a great motivator and such a high-energy guy.”

Peacock always stops by the Solar Homestead headquarters, located on U.S. 421, after a haircut at Mountaineer Hair Station, which is located just behind the Homestead. Over the past few months as the Decathlon approaches, Peacock and Jim Bynum, the barber, have talked about the Homestead, the students’ work ethic and the energy policies of the U.S. Bynum said that the country needs to adjust to the future technologies available. “We are still living in the 18th century. We got coal trains burning coal. We’re burning firewood. We are burning oil, and we are burning gas,” Bynum said. If the Decathlon creates jobs for the students, Bynum will 30

High Country Magazine

September 2011

be pleased, and already he is impressed. One day Bynum said to the chancellor, “Man, Peacock—I’ve never seen anything like it. They are coming in different shifts, working long hours, working hot hours and working in the rain. I’ve never seen anything like that before.”

Many of the students said they are easily working more than 12 hours a day. Austin Westmoreland, safety inspector for the project, said people are working 70 to 100 hours a week all the time. Westmoreland has told at least one person to go home and get some sleep after being up for two days straight. Aislinn Haskell, an intern on the architecture team, joked that, “We take shifts [sleeping] on the couch.” So far over the course of project, no one has been injured. “It’s 100 percent accident free,” Westmoreland said. He credits that to wearing a hardhat and safety glasses, proper use of tools and just paying attention. “You can never be too safe—

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31

The team builds the wooden frame, which holds the solar panels that power the entire house. The team purchased 42 Sanyo bifacial PV modules (i.e., solar panels) with a $60,000 donation from ASUREI, a student run and funded group. Photo courtesy of ASU Solar Homestead

especially when you are working these long hours late in the night,” he said. “There is always something that can be done to make it safer. My job never ends.”

Russell, one of the two faculty advisors on the team, said the students have shown a lot of dedication and have debunked the myth of the apathetic and lazy student. “I guess the lesson I learned is if you give students a project that they are really excited about, they will perform well, well, well beyond anybody’s expectations,” Russell said. “The students have really run this, and I couldn’t be prouder.”

This project has been hands-on in every sense of the word for ASU, but that has not been the case for all of the competing teams. For example, Team New Jersey, which consists of Rutgers University and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, isn’t building their house; they only designed it. “They sent off the plans and someone else is building it,” Pavia said. “As for the hands-on experi32

High Country Magazine

September 2011

ence…New Jersey is losing out huge because they aren’t building.” Teams don’t lose points for not building their house because the competition is more about architectural design and use of materials than how fast someone can build a home. “If something goes wrong they will have a tougher time fixing things. With us we know every nut, bolt and screw in that house,” Pavia said.

ASU hopes to have some patents come out of this project, particularly for the solar thermal hot water system designed and built by Neil Rifkin, an electrical engineer on the team, and Joe Sizemore, project manager for the team. Rifkin didn’t want High Country Magazine to publish—just yet—what was innovative and unique about their design. In every competition, at least a couple patents come out of the students’ ideas and designs, said King. “Industry leaders will be down here signing [these students] up because they want them in their companies. They are leaders. They have initiative.

They are knowledgeable, and they are passionate about [renewable energy],” King said. “If you are looking for fresh blood, these are the students you want to hire.”

On September 9, ASU will travel to Washington, D.C. From September 12 to 22, the team will have 10

The 120-square-foot flex space is a guest or space separate from the core home. It is also known as the mother-in-law suite. The flex space features poplar bark siding donated by Highlands Craftsmen Inc., in Spruce Pine. Photo by Ken Ketchie

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ASU Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock, the No. 1 fan of the Solar Homestead project, poses for a picture with members of the Solar Homestead team at Hardin Park Elementary, where Gov. Bev Perdue spoke about education budget woes. Peacock spoke about the budget effects on the university but also took some time to tell her that ASU would not only compete but would win the competition in Washington, D.C. Photo by Jesse Wood

days to re-construct their house on West Potomac Park in the National Mall. From September 23 to October 2, the houses will be open to the public, and during that time the Decathlon’s judges will tour the homes.

Aside from being judged on the affordability and energy balance of the home, the Homestead will be judged on eight other criteria. A communications team will give tours of the home that the team has marketed with websites, videos and presentations. Professional architects will judge the house on its design and sound

structure or lack thereof. Also, the home must maintain a certain comfortable temperature and humidity and produce enough hot water to for a shower and washing dishes and clothes. On two separate evenings, the Solar Homestead team will invite over two neighboring teams—Florida International and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign—for dinner and a movie. The ASU team designed dinner menus and even practiced cooking for the contest. “As you can see this is another whole section than just building a house,” Pavia said.

If ASU wins the Decathlon in October—and Decathlon Director King’s comments sound like they have an excellent shot—it will be huge for the college. “This is the biggest thing ASU has ever been involved in,” Pavia said. “If we win this competition, so much recognition will come to Appalachian State. It will be 10 times bigger than the Michigan football game.”

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High Country Magazine

September 2011

Solar Decathlon Teams Listed below are the 20 teams the U.S. Department of Energy selected for the 2011 Solar Decathlon. To learn more about each team, click to www.solardecathlon.org. To visit ASU’s Solar Homestead website, click to www.thesolarhomestead.com.

• Appalachian State University • Florida International University • Middlebury College • New Zealand: Victoria University of Wellington • The Ohio State University • Parsons The New School for Design and Stevens Institute of Technology • Purdue University • The Southern California Institute of Architecture and California Institute of Technology • Team Belgium: Ghent University • Team Canada: University of Calgary • Team China: Tongji University • Team Florida: The University of South Florida, Florida State University, The University of Central Florida, and The University of Florida • Team Massachusetts: Massachusetts College of Art and Design and the University of Massachusetts at Lowell • Team New Jersey: Rutgers - The State University of

The National Mall in Washington, D.C. turns into a temporary solar home village with the 20 homes built by university teams from around the world. Photo courtesy of U.S. DOE Solar Decathlon

New Jersey and New Jersey Institute of Technology • Team New York: The City College of New York • Tidewater Virginia: Old Dominion University and Hampton University • University of Hawaii • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign • University of Maryland • The University of Tennessee

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Founding leaders of Blue Ridge Electric sign papers for the first Rural Electrification Administration loan of $400,000 in 1937.

A photo taken at an early electricity meter setting.

Poles were set by hand in the beginning days of Blue Ridge Electric.

38

High Country Magazine

September 2011

Blue Ridge Electric

Story by Anna Oakes

Keeping the Lights on for 75 Years Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2011, and High Country Magazine takes a look back at the history of the High Country’s rural electric cooperative.

Rural Electrification By 1930, a majority of people living in larger towns and cities had electricity. While cities became known for their bright lights, however, rural areas remained without power, as companies were reluctant to expand to remote areas with nary a chance of making a profit. In May 1936, the Rural Electrification Administration was established as a government agency authorized to make loans for rural electrification.

On September 19, 1936, a small group of farmers met with G.F. Messick in the jury room of the Caldwell County Courthouse to organize the Caldwell Electric Membership Corporation,

later incorporated as the Caldwell Mutual Corporation. On January 24, 1938, 155 homes, six stores and four churches and schools in Caldwell County were the first consumers to receive power through 108 miles of lines.

On October 2, 1938, the cooperative set the first pole in Watauga County, and in March 1939, 80 miles of rural power lines were energized in Watauga. According to Blue Ridge Electric, Clyde Perry, Bert Mast, Clarence Newton, A.W. Greene and C.M. Watson were key figures in bringing electricity to rural Watauga.

On September 29, 1939, lines were energized in rural Ashe and Alleghany counties, and in 1941, the organization was rechartered as the Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation. By December 1941, Blue Ridge Electric was serving 2,700 homes, 220 stores,

churches and schools with electricity over 867 miles of line.

World War II resulted in a shift in focus for the cooperative. Blue Ridge Electric worked with churches to hold scrap metal drives for the war efforts and prioritized efforts to extend service to farms producing food for the war. When the war was over, service was extended to more than 6,000 members from 1946 to 1949. Because of a shortage of treated commercial poles, many members contributed their own locust poles to enable the cooperative to extend service to them—more than 6,000 locust poles were used, according to Blue Ridge Electric.

The demand for power increased as consumers purchased new electrical appliances they could not get during the war, requiring a new high-voltage transmission line from Lenoir to Boone to be constructed during the late ‘40s.

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“Clearly the role of the cooperative has not changed. We’re still focused on meeting the needs of our members.” ~ Lee Layton, chief operating officer of Blue Ridge Electric Responses to Changing Times From 1950 to 1973, Blue Ridge Electric developed a member financing plan for the purchase of electrical appliances and farm production equipment. The purpose?

To increase members’ usage of electric power. The directors of Blue Ridge Electric had determined that more than 30 percent of connected members used less than 25 kilowatthours of electricity each month, and to continue furnishing low-cost power to members, the cooperative required greater usage of power.

The program loaned more than $4 million to more than 20,000 members during its 23-year tenure.

In the 1950s, Blue Ridge Electric authorized feasibility studies for the construction of its own generating facilities—at the time (and still today), the cooperative purchased power wholesale from Duke Power.

The cooperative sought permits from the Federal Power Commis-

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sion for two hydroelectric projects on the New River in Ashe County, but the permits were denied because of public opposition downstream.

By the mid-1950s, the cooperative’s primary operations had shifted from construction to customer service and system improvements.

With the energy crisis of the 1970s, Blue Ridge Electric saw the cost of its wholesale power agreements soar. Costs were passed on to members. As a result, the cooperative introduced the Home Energy Limiting Program (HELP) in 1976 to promote better insulation standards and allow members to save on their energy costs each month.

In 1979, Blue Ridge Electric joined NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy in dedicating a 2,000-kilowatt wind turbine generator on Howard’s Knob in Boone, but the experimental project was discontinued in 1982.

September 2011

Looking Back and Ahead In Watauga County, longtime Blue Ridge Electric employee Harold Huffman retired from Blue Ridge Electric in January of this year after almost 50 years of service. He began his career as a warehouse assistant in the Caldwell district just one week after graduating from high school in June 1961.

He then moved to working with line crews, served as a truck driver of heavy equipment and eventually worked as a construction layout technician. He was promoted to operations supervisor in 1974 and four years later was named the Watauga operations manager, the position from which he retired this year.

ABOVE: An early line truck.

Blue Ridge Electric retiree Harold Huffman said today’s bucket trucks have greatly improved the ability to repair utility lines without disruption of service.

BELOW: In the past decade, the cooperative has added Blue Ridge Energies, a propane and heating fuels subsidiary.

When Huffman began working with Blue Ridge Electric, the rough terrain of the mountains made servicing the lines a challenge, particularly before technological advances.

“Everything was done manually,” he said. “We didn’t have line trucks and bucket trucks.” Another change over the years—gaining access to the lines. In the past, property owners welcomed the cooperative’s workers onto their property to make system improvements, he noted.

“The people in the area were very cooperative about wanting the electricity and wanting it to come on their property. We didn’t have any problem working with people. Everybody wanted electricity,” he said. “You can’t do that now. You’ve got to let them know in advance that you’re going to be on their property.”

Huffman said he enjoyed traveling to help cooperatives in other parts of the country respond after hurricanes and other storms. “They just appreciated people from the mountains coming all the way to Louisiana or Mississippi,” he said.

“They couldn’t understand that. It was our job and we loved it. I still do. You were providing a service, and people really appreciated it.”

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Powering Our Communities Since 1936.

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He also enjoyed watching families simplify their lives with electric appliances such as refrigerators.

“It’s kind of like medicine; it just changes the way people live,” he said. “You can do without about anything, but you can’t do without electricity today.”

In 2010, according to its annual report, Blue Ridge Electric brought in $155.7 million in revenue and expended $148.4 million in operations. Revenues that exceed expenses are returned to members in the form of capital credits. Blue Ridge Electric serves approximately 73,803 consumers in Caldwell, Watauga, Ashe and Alleghany counties and in parts of Wilkes, Alexander and Avery counties.

Lee Layton is chief operating officer of Blue Ridge Electric.

“Clearly the role of the cooperative has not changed,” Layton said. “We’re still focused on meeting the needs of our members.” Those needs have changed over the years, he said, noting the increase of electronics in homes.

In recent years, Blue Ridge Electric has dramatically improved the reliability of its system through upgrades and new technology, Layton said. And a new automated metering system has saved more than $1 million in meter reading costs.

The cooperative’s energy efficiency programs have been in place for quite a while. “During the 1970s, there was a stronger emphasis on energy efficiency,” he said. “We know that power costs are going to be rising in the future. We’re trying to help members prepare for that.”

Blue Ridge purchases electric power through an agreement with Duke Energy

The Historic Hotels of Blowing Rock Mr. Gwen Price, Chairman of the North Carolina Rural Electrification Authority, congratulates Blue Ridge Electric’s 10,000th member, Mr. Ed Yates of Watauga County on June 22, 1949.

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In the aftermath of the 2009 Christmas Day ice storm, crews from rural electric cooperatives all across the region came to assist Blue Ridge Electric to repair downed power lines and poles, remove tree limbs and restore power to thousands in its service area.

and also sells power to New River Light & Power, which serves the ASU campus and the Town of Boone.

Currently, coal combustion accounts for 48 percent of Duke Energy’s generating capacity. North Carolina law requires investor-owned electric utilities and rural electric cooperatives in the state to meet at least 12.5 percent and 10 percent, respectively, of their energy needs through renewable energy resources or energy efficiency measures by 2021. Layton said Blue Ridge Electric will meet its require-

ment through its power supply agreement with Duke Energy.

“Our concern is providing reliable, affordable electricity for our members,” Layton said. “Renewables are not the cheapest alternative for our members.

There’s a balance there. We want to be good environmental stewards, but there’s a cost.

“Renewables are the most expensive form of energy,” he added. “Any increase in renewables will increase power cost.”

However, the cost of renewable energy

sources continues to decrease. A June 28 article in USA Today noted that the cost of a solar system, for example, fell more than 20 percent nationwide from the beginning to end of 2010.

Layton stressed the importance of service to Blue Ridge Electric.

“It’s just day in and day out trying to serve the members,” he said. “That’s what’s most important to us, that’s what’s been most important in the past and that’s what’s going to be most important in the future.”

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September 2011

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Andrew Mueller carves deep into the berms on the Amateur Track.

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C

hances are, you have ridden a bike—maybe even a mountain bike. You’ve probably even gone really fast, perhaps faster than you wanted. In your speed, the world around you changes a little. It becomes either a comfortable blur or a terrifying threat. It’s gravity that pulls you along and either forces you to grab the brakes or to let go. For those who let go, there’s fast, faster, and the fastest.

Each year, USA Cycling hosts its National Championships in each of its disciplines. This year, the Gravity Nationals (the event to identify who can navigate a mountain bike down the mountain the fastest) were awarded to Beech Mountain Resort.

Beech Mountain, with its high elevation and steep slopes, will provide a picturesque backdrop for the nation’s fastest men and women.

Not Your Typical Mountain Bikers

Story and Photography

by Kristian Jackson

Mountain biking as a form of cycling is ubiquitous, but its place in the USA and the world is relatively new.

Mountain bikes as we know them today trace their origins to the 1970s, when Joe Breeze and a band of hippies discovered the thrill and freedom of riding modified Schwinn cruiser bikes down mountain fire roads in northern California. Soon those riders turned into entrepreneurs and bicycle manufacturers. By the ‘80s, people all over the country, in mountainous areas and flatlands, were riding mountain bikes.

By the ‘90s, people were identifying as “mountain bikers.”

Today, mountain biking takes many forms. Visit a bike shop or the web and you’ll find Cross Country bikes, All-Mountain bikes, Trail bikes, Freeride bikes and Downhill bikes. For each of these knobby-tired variants, riders seek different experiences. The different terms matter little on a trail in the woods, but there’s something’s different about downhill racers. Most mountain bikers enjoy going downhill.

Some even like to go fast. But downhill racers not only descend fast, they are looking for the fastest way down.

They don’t stop. They don’t put a foot down. Where some riders see an impassible jumble of rocks, downhillers see a clean path. They don’t see a 15foot long, six-foot deep chasm; they September 2011

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just see where they will land. They don’t notice dips or jogs in the trail, just opportunities to increase speed.

Downhill racers may be close to the heart of the sport in spirit, but technology and human skill has broadened the experience. Today’s downhill mountain bikers and bikes bear little resemblance to the sneakers, blue jeans, flannel and bandana clad crowd of the 1970s. The outfit today has been perfected over the past decade: 58

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a full-face helmet and goggles, a neck brace, plastic and high-tech materials that are supple but stiffen to protect on impact and team colors head-to-toe. Some riders even employ GPS-enabled helmet cams to review their runs.

Early downhill bikes were beasts, weighing 50 pounds. Modern downhill bikes check in at about 35 pounds and sport carbon fiber components and flexible yet responsive suspension systems. All

September 2011

of these advances in technology have allowed racers to develop an incredible level of skill. Pointing a modern bike down a modern trail is far from a quiet ride in the woods; rather, riders will be staring down at menacing rocks, trees and dropoffs.

Every second of a downhill run is full of make-or-break choices: balance, braking, body English, attitude, where to look.

Because of this, downhillers practice by breaking down the course into individual

Danny Cesare sends the triple jump out of the woods on the Pro Track.

problems and then working them until they find the right technique. Then they work on how to connect the moves.

Building a Big Puzzle

“To be a good racer,” says trail builder and racer Danny Cesare, “you must be a good thinker.” Cesare, along with Michael Thomas, work for Christopher Herndon, the master trail builder at Beech Mountain Resort. Together they employ cutting-

edge trail construction that is resulting in a challenging, complex and aesthetic course. “We’re building a big puzzle,” Cesare says. “In most races the top riders take the same line. We want to build a course where riders will have to study every section knowing that the moves they make five turns up may impact them five turns down.” This is modern trail building— trails upon which riders must align their problem-solving skills with their strength, endurance and bravery.

“Most race tracks in the Southeast have always been one-line tracks,” says Herndon.

“For Beech, I wanted to start from scratch. I wanted a trail that was different from any of the trails that the regional racers have grown accustomed to.”

He knows what he is talking about.

Herndon has raced professionally since 2000. He has competed as an elite U.S. Downhiller in the 2006 and 2007 seasons, and he was the Dual Slalom Nation-

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Preparing for the Gravity Nationals at Beech Mountain Resort in September, Christopher Herndon and Danny Cesare plan the next moves on the Pro Track.

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Just as downhill mountain bike racers are a breed apart, so too are the spectators. You might be hard-pressed to see who has more fun at a downhill race— the racers or the spectators. Spectators at other races are often polite, perhaps even sophisticated. They gather and cheer like in other sports. But going to a downhill race feels like going to a rock and roll show. Make that punk rock. You might see a fan in a banana suit using a handlebar as a horn. You may hear fireworks. You may hear nonsensical chants or an entire crowd yelling, “No brake, no brake, no brake, no brake!” as racers clatter by. Friendly taunting is part of the culture. Cheering sections will appear at the most challenging or most stunning sections of the course. Bring your cowbells, horns and clappers to make some noise with the crowd.

You’ll want to check the schedule and arrive plenty early to ride the lift up and walk the course to find the best spots. Unlike other downhill races in the Southeast, spectators will be treated to views of up to 30 seconds of riding. On the Pro Track,

it will be a hard choice between the Pro Track above the Summer Road where riders will need to decide to jump a 15-foot cavity, or the mean rock garden below, or the triple jump to a gigantic stepdown where the “Robbin’s Run” ski slope ends.

On the Amateur Track, consider the second woods section above the summer road. It features a long view through open

woods finishing with a serpentine course of deep berms. The Dual Slalom course where riders compete against each other on a BMX-styled downhill course will be especially crowd friendly. The finish at the ice skating rink will be good too, as would the spectacular start. Whereever you go, make some noise. Oh, and consider a costume.

September 2011

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Walker Shaw, one of the rising stars in downhill racing, commits to the Pro Track’s gap jump.

al Champion in 2007. On top of that, he founded Specialized/GROM team in 2010, one of the most promising corps of juniors in the United States.

Herndon and team have carefully transformed the woods and slopes into an incredible race course. The woods above 5,000 feet are atypical for the southern Appalachians. Missing are the rhododendron thickets and light-wringing canopies of dense trees. Here, the woods are open. Rocks, boulders, more rocks, some dark soil, bogs, ferns and more rocks lay scattered between widely spaced, stunted trees. The crew works the rocks and soil by hand, paying attention to and minimizing their own impact.

The team takes its attention to detail a step further. Not only are they crafting a challenging and sustainable trail, but also they want spectators to have easy access to the natural beauty and top-shelf racing. They have cleared all of the brush near the course to improve lines of sight for both spectators and media. They have also cut numerous access points from the slopes to the course for spectators and emergency response.

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(above) The Shaw brothers of Hendersonville push back up the Amateur Track to learn the moves. (below) Deep in the berms, the Shaw brothers find their rhythm.

Downhill racers and teenagers Walker and Luca Shaw have been racing downhill for about a year and a half. You’d never know that watching them ride. The brothers are two of the nine members of Chris Herndon’s Specialized GROM Team.

Both visited the course recently and proceeded to “shred” all of the hardest lines. As gifted riders from Hendersonville, NC, the brothers have raced at Snowshoe Mountain, WV, Diablo Freeride Park, NJ, and Sea Otter in Monterey, CA. The brothers have dabbled in other forms of bike racing but have found their stride in downhill.

“It’s the complete package,” says older brother Walker. “Downhill racing is such a unique form of racing you can’t compare it. It’s superhard. Superhard physically, mentally, and you’ve got to have the skills.” After seeing and testing both the Amateur and Pro Tracks, the brothers are stoked. “This is going to be one of the most fun courses to ride,” says older brother Walker. “Here,” adds Luca, “you don’t worry about getting down safely; it’s just fast and fun. It’s going to be hard not to practice too much because the track is so fun.” The brothers will be racing this September. Keep an eye on these kids.

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(above) The beginning of the Dual Slalom course. Michael Thomas restrings his trimmer to prepare the course for the arrival of tons of dirt. (below) The test team pushes back up the ski slope to session another section of trail.

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Photo by Amy Morrison

“This is going to be very much a World Cup-style course,� Thomas says. Riders will have to be in best form to win. The crew has designed the course to put riders where they need to be. Intermediate riders will find lines that force them into mellower terrain. The pros will commit to some sizable jumps and tricky, rockinfested zones to gain time.

A Two-Wheeled Revolution

Since people have taken two-wheeled, human-powered contraptions off road, mountain biking has been about revolution. Joe Breeze and his California buddies created a fundamental change in the cycling world back in the 1970s when they started modifying cruiser bikes and bombing down fire roads. They eschewed rules of what a bike should be and how and where it should be ridden. Many mountain bike revolutions have happened since then. Aluminum, titanium, suspension, carbon fiber, 24-hour races, transmountain races; the list continues. The current revolution is the bike park. These purpose-built trail systems have been cropping up around the globe to meet the demand of new bike technology and new skills brought on by the freeride and downhill movements. Often an extension of a ski resort, these parks feature trails 66

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September 2011

that pack more features and excitement than usually found on cross country trails.

Jumps, drops, skinnies (narrow wooden features or logs that riders navigate sometimes high in the air), and racetrack-like berms pepper the slopes and keep riders asking for more.

For years, local mountain bikers have been puzzled by the fact that North Carolina has an abundance of ski resorts but none of them has stepped up to build a bike park. Now, the national downhill course has sealed the bike park deal for Beech Mountain Resort. Herndon will spend the next several years building the park for Beech Mountain Resort. The resort has big plans. They will install bike trays on the lifts to boost speed and convenience and offer rental bikes for a wide diversity of trails for all skill levels.

Something big is happening at Beech Mountain. The Beech Mountain Resort is putting it all on the table for this event from Thursday through Sunday, September 22 to 25. They are modifying their lifts for bikes (sponsored by Monster Energy). Plans are underway for an amazing event. The Gravity Nationals will mark the beginning of a legitimate bike park on the mountain and further solidify Western North Carolina’s reputation as a serious mountain bike destination.

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Unlike other forms of mountain bike racing in which riders start together and try to cross the finish line first, gravity racers try to beat the clock. They will take the lift to the top to a staging area. Many people who have seen the start of the USA Gravity Nationals Course call it one of the most dramatic starts anywhere. Riders will begin the race perched on a cliff near the Oz Gazebo. When they leave the gate, the clock will start. Seconds matter. Every choice riders make will affect their time. As Michael Thomas says, “Something clicks when the start official says ‘Go’ and there is so much adrenaline pumping that you can barely think straight.” Both amateur and pro riders will plunge down the ski slope and thread through the woods several times before entering a zone of wooden features. Then riders will sprint past the quad lift house to the finish at the ice skating rink. Winning times will be in the three-minute range.

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(Full schedule at www.usacycling.org/events/2011/ mtbgravity)

Thursday, September 22: 12:00 to 6:00 p.m. Practice DH and DS Friday, September 23: 9:15 a.m. CAT 2 Race; 10:15 a.m. CAT 3 Race; 12:00 p.m. Awards CAT 2 and 3 Saturday, September 24: morning practice; 12:00 p.m. Qualifying DH PRO men/women; 2:00 p.m. DS Finals AM, 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Brews and Views Beer Fest; 5:30 p.m. Finals DS Pro; 6:30 p.m.

Awards DS Sunday, September 25: 10:15 a.m. DH National Championship finals There will be many other activities, too, including live music from 12:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, a kids vil-

Fat tire. Danny Cesare and his downhill bike are

lage with inflatables and fireworks after dark.

ready for action.

at

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Scenes from a Future G

aze off of the Linn Cove Viaduct, down from the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, or out from The Blowing Rock and you’ll be convinced—the dramatic, rippling expanse of the Pisgah National Forest is scenic in spades.

But the question of late, one being asked by local conservationists and the Asheville-based Wild South environmental organization, is—should 25,500 acres of that national forest land be officially designated as a National Scenic Area?

Story by Randy Johnson • Photography by Mark Roberts 68

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National Scenic Area?

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Is a National Scenic Area in the High Country’s Future?

T

hat designation, which would require an act of Congress, generally focuses U.S. Forest Service management policies toward the preservation end of the spectrum and away from timber harvesting.

Environmentalists who support the move say now is the time to formally prioritize preservation of scenery.

Why now? Long after a major local controversy over logging in the late 1980s, when clearcuts were visible below the Linn Cove Viaduct, the issue of logging came back in 2006 with another USFS timber plan. This recent proposed logging project startled some High Country tourism proponents and conservationists who thought the 1980s debate had soundly placed scenic views above timber cutting.

Long story short—over the last five years, the timber harvest has been dramatically scaled back—but some say it’s time to formally designate the area as “scenic,” thus binding future forest managers to policies that largely eliminate logging.

As was the case during the 1980s, today’s local travel industry seems swayed toward Scenic Area designation by the argument that scenery is tourism’s bread 70

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and butter and that the area’s biggest industry should be protected at all costs.

A June 2011 White Paper published

by Wild South bolsters that perspective.

It points to research suggesting that if “scenic quality declines on the North Carolina section of the BRP, over half of survey respondents indicated that they would stop visiting the BRP altogether.”

Another study suggests that designation of a National Scenic Area would boost tourism, increasing travel industry employment, income and tax revenue.

Wild South in fact argues that “drawing a border around an area and calling it scenic,” says the organization’s associate director Ben Prater, would likely spark travel industry growth in Caldwell, a county far less developed as a tourism destination than Watauga or Avery. The Wilson Creek area, the heart of the Scenic Area proposal, already seems poised to attract more visitors. Caldwell County residents achieved National Wild and Scenic River status for Wilson Creek in record time in 2002, and a new streamside visitor center operated by the Caldwell County Chamber of Commerce opened in 2004.

Other parklike improvements are underway, including federal stimulus-funded

September 2011

upgrades at the area’s two national forest campgrounds.

The effort to designate the tract as a National Scenic Area was recently reinvigorated by Wild South’s White Paper, events and other initiatives, but so far, the key to achieving the designation— support from the area’s two Congressional representatives (Virginia Foxx and Patrick McHenry)—seems to be missing.

“We’ll need a lot more support from constituents to get this effort on the political agenda,” says Wild South Executive Director Tracy Davids.

What’s your opinion? Would a National Scenic Area actually increase tourism in the area? Would ending logging in the proposed Scenic Area have a negative impact on the economy? Is too much national forest land already off limits to timber harvesting? To delve deeper, to answer some of the above questions, and perhaps some of your own, log onto HighCountryPress.com and review the paper’s multi-week review of the issues.

The series—its questions and answers— should be wrapping up by mid-August and available online as this magazine is finding its way into your hands.

Photo Spread # 4

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Mark Roberts is a photographer and writer

living in Boston, Massachusetts. Mark has been photographing the wilderness area below Grandfather Mountain for the last few years that he hopes will one day be protected with a National Scenic Area designation. He teaches photography and graphic design at Lasell College in Newton, MA and private workshops around the country. He is co-judge of the photo contest at the annual Grandfather Mountain Nature Photography Weekend and has been involved with organizing and putting on the event since 2002.

He has a web site at http://www.robertstech.com 72

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he motorcycle helmet at left offers an insightful contrast in the national forest below Grandfather Mountain. The public might get it through their heads that anything made of wood starts in a scene like this.

Though unsightly for a while, this timber cut is not visible from a distance.

Photos on this page by Ken Ketchie September 2011

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Follow the debate about the Grandfather Mountain Scenic Area Designation online at www.HighCountryPress.com Relevant Issues, Entertainment and Community News—All in One Place

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What Will Our Children See?

ith growing public concern over viewshed protection, it seems likely that the national forest views we see in these photos will largely remain—one way or another.

At least the public land may remain forested. Just the flow of time could result in dramatically increased development density on private land in the views above. The dramatic vista we now cherish below Grandfather Mountain is a mesmerizing view—from the singular summits of Grandfather, past the Linn Cove Viaduct (an icon of the Parkway, the most visited unit of the national park system), and across a vastness of rippling ridges. It is nationally significant scenery—but should it be a National Scenic Area? When the High Country Press series concludes in August, you may know where you stand on the proposal. Photos on these pages by Randy Johnson

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A.P.E.

Animals People Environment

The Young Philanthropists of Valle Crucis Story by Anna Oakes My interview with the members of A.P.E. might go down as the one with the most giggles. On one hand, they were your typical group of 10- to 13-year-olds, with lots of hugs and laughs to go around, and the conversation frequently spiraling off into a million different directions, about their latest antics (making faces at security cameras), or a weird dream one girl had the night before, or a bird that one of them recently rescued. But they were all business— and all smiles—when a customer came to their table at the Valle Crucis Community Park, where they sell refreshments to raise money for their charitable club.

There’s no doubt that philanthropy is serious work, with serious need. What the bring to the field, however, young members of A.P.E. is needed more than ever— 78

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The members of A.P.E. enjoy spending time with each other over the summer while selling refreshments to raise money for club projects at the Valle Crucis Park. Pictured clockwise from top left are Mia Walker, Emma Carder, Olivia Handley and Cami Hastings. Photo by Anna Oakes

a youthful vigor, enthusiasm and yes, lightheartedness— to motivate a new generation of humanitarians and volunteers.

I

n 2006, a group of third-grade girls at Valle Crucis Elementary School decided they wanted to form a club. But instead of uniting over a shared passion for unicorns, sports, Hannah Montana or secret agents, Cami Hastings, Olivia Handley, Olivia Waters and Barbara Ramsdell were the first four members of a group created to help charitable causes. Inspired by the book A Kid’s Guide to Giving by Freddi Zeiler, Cami founded the club A.P.E., which stands for Animals, People, Environment—the three causes to which the young do-gooders chose to dedicate themselves.

They started with animals—raising money for the Watauga Humane Society, which operates an animal shelter in the county and works to prevent cruelty to animals, promote the relief of suffering among animals and provide information on humane animal care. To raise money, they walked dogs for people in the community in exchange for donations, and they set up a weekly snack stand at the annual Music in the Valle summer concert series at Valle Crucis Community Park that they continue to operate, selling drinks, homemade baked goods, dog treats (ingredients: flour, peanut butter, eggs, cheese and bacon—yum!) and decorative rocks (painted with such positive messages as “laugh,” “love,” “be a star,” “peace” and “believe in Yosef.”

A.P.E. works diligently at their table (with some time for laughs, horsing around and a little gossip, too) by the park’s walking path, facing the stage, while their parents relax in lawn chairs and enjoy the music with friends. At a recent concert in July, at least one woman was perhaps a little surprised to see a group of adolescents running the operation. She had a question and, at first not noticing the young A.P.E. volunteers responding to her, asked the only adult standing nearby—who was simply a customer, he answered.

The club, later joined by friends Emma, Bailey, Addison and Finley, moved on to other projects, too. The girls learned about Greg Mortenson and his Central Asia Institute, which builds schools (especially targeted toward educating young girls) in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and spearheaded a Pennies for Peace campaign at Valle Crucis School, raising $1,000. Mortenson appeared at the Watauga Public Library in Boone in September 2009 in conjunction with his visit to Appalachian State University to speak at the university’s convocation.

A.P.E. presented the donation directly to Mortenson, who reportedly was very impressed by the young philanthropists.

That’s when Bettie Bond—herself an active community member, fundraiser and president of the Watauga County Commu-

A young concertgoer purchases a snack from A.P.E. at the Valle Crucis Park during the park’s Music in the Valle concert series. Photo by Anna Oakes

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From left, Olivia Waters, Emma Carder, Cami Hastings and other members of A.P.E. present a check to Greg Mortenson for $1,000 to help him build schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

A Kid’s Guide to Giving Cami Hastings was inspired to create A.P.E. after reading A Kid’s Guide to Giving by Freddi Zeiler. Written by a kid for kids, this book offers a comprehensive guide to giving money, volunteering, donating goods and organizing charity events—as well as tips for avoiding scams.

The book can be ordered through Black Bear Books, located in the Boone Mall. Call 828-264-4636 to inquire about availability.

nity Foundation—first encountered the group.

“When the librarian introduced [Mortenson], there were several gifts that were going to be given to him,” Bettie remembered. “Up popped these little girls from Valle Crucis. I sat there absolutely stunned. I couldn’t believe it. They were so well spoken, so poised. They had it all together.”

Since 2006, A.P.E. has also raised funds for Valle Crucis Elementary School and Parent Teacher Student Association, Valle Crucis Community Park, Horse Helpers of the High Country and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. In May 2011, the

club pulled off its largest undertaking to date—a contra dance fundraiser to benefit OASIS, held at the Apple Barn on the campus of the Valle Crucis Conference Center. OASIS (Opposing Abuse with Services, Information and Shelter) is dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault in Watauga County. People of all ages do-sidoed, allemanded and promenaded across the wooden barn floor to raise $1,000 for the organization, with Connie Carringer volunteering as the caller and the Laurel Creek String Band providing the music. Connie also happens to be the community services legal coordinator for OASIS. “The girls themselves came to our office and met with me to come up with a plan for the fundraiser,” Connie explained. “They were really mature for their age. They had a good sense of what’s important and wanting to work with different groups. They were so excited about this event and about working with this.

“I was really encouraged by their enthusiasm,” she added.

“I think it’s fun to work here, and I want to help people.”

Brooks Hastings, A.P.E.’s member-in-training 80

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Left: In 2010, A.P.E. helped Horse Helpers of the High Country raise $250.

Right: In 2009, the members of A.P.E. received the Watauga County

Community

Foundation’s Spirit of Philanthropy Award.

Connie said OASIS used the $1,000 donation for the children’s playroom and other projects in the organization’s women’s shelter, which was recently renovated.

“The contra dance was awesome. That’s what I have to say,” said Brooks Hastings, Cami’s younger brother and A.P.E.’s member-in-training.

A.P.E. has begun to make a name for itself, garnering the attention of the Watauga County Community Foundation, among others. After witnessing the girls’ efforts for Mortenson’s Pennies for Peace program, Bettie nominated A.P.E. for the foundation’s Spirit of Philanthropy Award. These girls, she said, gave her a renewed sense of hope for today’s youth and their ability to become active philanthropists and volunteers.

“A couple of years ago, maybe longer than that, I’d really been very concerned about where the next philanthropists are coming from,” noted Bettie. I’m even worried about where the next generation of volunteers are coming from. The volunteers I grew up with like my mother, I don’t see them. Youth and philanthropy to me was a real burning issue.”

Each year, the Watauga County Community Foundation presents the Spirit of Philanthropy Award in conjunction with National Philanthropy Day in November.

“I said I would love to give this award this year to these little girls,” Bettie recalled. “They have done this all by themselves.

They’ve made their own website. They’ve done their own recruiting.

828-733-3726••105 105ininLinville Linvilleatatthe theFoot FootofofGrandfather GrandfatherMtn Mtn 828-733-3726 www.mountaineerlandscaping.com www.mountaineerlandscaping.com September 2011

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A crowd turned out for A.P.E.’s first contra dance fundraiser held at the Apple Barn in Valle Crucis. The benefit featured catering from Bandana’s Bar-B-Q, cakes from Stick Boy Bread Co. and music by the Laurel Creek String Band. The event raised $1,000 for OASIS. Photos this page and opposite page by Justin Harris

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“The girls themselves came to our office and met with me to come up with a plan for the fundraiser. They were really mature for their age.”

Connie Carringer, community services legal coordinator for OASIS

“There was absolutely no discussion,” she said, and A.P.E. received the award in November 2009. Then, Bettie nominated A.P.E. for an award through the international Association of Fundraising Professionals—the Young Philanthropy Award.

“Lo and behold they got it,” Bettie said, and she traveled with the girls and their families to Hickory, where they accepted the award from the association’s Northwest North Carolina Chapter.

“We were very, very thrilled,” said Emma Carder, 12. “We got to skip school—twice!” remembered Cami.

“They wowed the crowd,” Bettie said. “The people who were getting these awards in Hickory have been the same for the past

10 years. The same people all the time. Then when they got to the Youth in Philanthropy…the emcee said, would you like to say a few words? And they said, ‘Why, yes!’ That was the only energy in the whole room. It was fabulous.”

In addition to their awards, members of A.P.E. have also been invited to speak at a fundraising class at Appalachian University.

Currently, A.P.E. has nine members and one member-intraining, Brooks—the first guy in the group. Olivia Waters is president, Cami is vice president, Bailey Shuford is treasurer, Mia Walker is secretary, Emma is in charge of arts and design and Olivia Handley coordinates technology. Other members

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include Addison Martin, Barbara Ramsdell and Finley Collins.

Their stated goal, according to an online presentation created

by A.P.E., is as follows: “Our goal is to make the world a better place by fundraising, volunteering and raising awareness.”

A.P.E. holds club meetings as necessary, and each January the members vote on club officers and the acceptance of new members. They developed the member-in-training system to ensure potential members understand the time and effort required of the club. “People want to join, but they don’t understand you have to work,” Emma said. “I always tell people they can be volunteers and help out every now and then.” Brooks, who was helping A.P.E. sell refreshments at the Music in the Valle concert, became a member-in-training in January. “I think it’s fun to work here, and I want to help people,” he explained.

As with any organization, there are challenges. “Working together,” Emma said. “We’re all sort of leaders, so everybody talks over each other,” Cami added. Olivia Handley said Cami often serves as the peacemaker, mediating between some of the stron-

ger personalities in the group. The girls are quick to compliment and recognize each other’s strengths. “Olivia [Waters] took to it easily,” said Olivia Handley, referring to being a leader. “Cami’s good at talking to people.” “You are, too!” Cami replied.

The girls have done it all themselves—“We just have to haul them places,” noted Olivia Handley’s dad—but acknowledge the help they’re received along the way from community members and businesses, such as Bandana’s, which catered the contra dance event at a significant discount, and Stick Boy Bread Company, which donated cakes for cake walks at the fundraiser. And the contra dance came about after the girls won a certificate for use of the Apple Barn for a day at the annual Valle Crucis Community Park Auction.

“I think we should do another contra dance,” Olivia Handley said. The club also wants to increase its membership to include kids from other areas of the county as well as make use of volunteers who want to help out with certain events—perhaps from the Girl Scouts. And their next step, they said, is to apply

Every January, A.P.E. holds meetings to elect officers and induct new members. The club also votes on which organizations will receive donations from funds that they raise. Photos by Anna Oakes

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A.P.E’s Accomplishments 2006 A.P.E. donated more than $200 to the Watauga Humane Society.

2007 The girls raised over $250 for the Humane Society and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

2008 The club gave more than $400 to the Humane Society.

2009 A.P.E. raised $1,000 for

“What we older philanthropists…have to realize is this is a group that we really have to encourage.”

2010 A.P.E. helped the Horse

Bettie Bond, president of the Watauga County Community Foundation

as a charitable organization for 501(c) (3) tax-exempt status from the IRS. “That just shows how sophisticated they are,” said Bettie. A.P.E. has a Facebook page and a website—http://apegogreen.giving.officelive.com/contactus. aspx.

“What we older philanthropists…

have to realize is this is a group that we really have to encourage. I’m still very concerned about where the next volunteers are coming from,” Bettie said. “We have to nurture those people. The little girls, I think, got all of us excited. What could we do to help them?”

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Greg Mortenson’s Pennies for Peace project to benefit schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The club also gave $300 to Valle Crucis School, $100 to Valle Crucis Community Park and $100 to Heifer International, an organization dedicated to ending hunger and poverty.

Helpers of the High Country raise about $250 and raised about $370 for the Valle Crucis PTSA and $150 for Valle Crucis Park.

2011 A.P.E. hosted a benefit con-

tra dance and raised $1,000 for OASIS, which operates a women’s shelter and crisis services in Watauga County.

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Story by Celeste von Mangan • Photography by peter morris

On the

Same

Page Literary Festival A September Event Falling on the Eve of Autumn

S

tories help bind a community together. Like a book with pages sewn into a hardcover spine and embossed with a gold letter title, stories and literature enthrall, empower and enrich people, places and things. The High Country is about to play host to the literary event of the year, held in downtown West Jefferson Wednesday, September 14, through Saturday, September 17, with Ashe County’s own homegrown festival, On the Same Page.

The literary festival is the brainchild of a group of people, though two key initiators were Jane Lonon, executive director of the Ashe County Arts Council, and Jim McQueen, who at that time served as library director for Ashe. McQueen wanted to honor and celebrate in an appropriate way the expansion of the Ashe County Library. As the building overlooking West Jefferson and seated atop an ivied hill took shape, so did the vision for the literary festival that was to become On the Same Page. Each year carries a different theme, and this is the fourth annual festival. For 2011, “Family Matters” marks the newest chapter. And, as in other years, indigenous authors were chosen who embrace the year’s gist. An impressive lineup includes Sharyn McCrumb, Jaki Shelton 86

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Little Girl on a Bench Reading is a bronze sculpture located outside the Ashe County Public Library.

September 2011

Sharyn McCrumb Sharyn is known for her ballad novels, famously set in the southern Appalachian mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. Her just released newest book is The Ballad of Tom Dooley, a tale that promises— and delivers—the true story of one of the High Country’s most famous legends, Tom Dula. Her New York Times Bestsellers include The Ballad of Frankie Silver and She Walks These Hills.

2011 authors

Copies of books for all authors participating in the On the Same Page Literary Festival will be available for purchase at the Ashe County Arts Council or for loan at the Ashe County Public Library. Bring your copy or buy a copy of your favorite author’s book and have them sign it!

Georgann Eubanks A perennial festival favorite, Georgann will speak about families along the literary trails of North Carolina.

She draws from her experiences while penning Literary Trails of North Carolina, a series of guidebooks focusing on various locales and writers who have left their indelible mark on North Carolina’s cultural history. A prolific writer, Georgann has published reviews, short stories, poems and profiles in a number of prominent magazines and journals.

Wayne Caldwell

Suzi Parron

A native of Asheville, Wayne began writing novels in the late 1990s.

His novels include Cataloochee and Requiem by Fire, winner of the 2010 Thomas Wolfe Memorial Literary Award.

Quilter, backwoods traveler and avid folk art collector, Suzi has written Barn Quilts and the American Quilt Trail Movement. Her Quilt Trail book details the story of one of the fastest growing grassroots movements in the United States and Canada.

Michael Malone An Emmy Award-winning American author and television writer, Michael is perhaps best known for his work as head writer for ABC’s soap opera One Life to Live. Some of his best-selling fiction books are Handling Sin, Foolscap and murder mystery, First Lady. Michael’s most recent work is titled The Four Corners of the Sky.

Mark de Castrique As an author, public speaker, playwright and television producer residing in Charlotte, Mark creates a wide variety of projects for his clients. His work, through his company Mark et al, has earned numerous awards. Additionally, Mark has written nine mystery novels, including Fatal Undertaking and the Fitzgerald Ruse. His newest book, The Sandburg Connection, will be published in time to debut at the On the Same Page Literary Festival.

Jaki Shelton Green Writer and activist Jaki received the North Carolina Award for Poetry in 2003 for both her writing and her “inveterate championing of the underdog.” Her poetry has been published in magazines such as Ms. and The Crucible. Jaki has published four poetry books, including Dead on Arrival and Conjure Blues. Using her poetry and art as tools for healing and empowerment, she is able to reach disenfranchised populations: the homeless; the newly literate; and women who are incarcerated.

Dr. Allen Paul Speer A ninth-generation Boonville resident, Allen has written the emotive and award-winning trilogy of memoirs, Voices from Cemetery Hill, Sisters of Providence and From Boonville to Banner Elk. This literary trio is a poignant portrait of a Southern family and their culture. Allen is the Distinguished Professor of Humanities at Lees-McRae College.

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Festival Schedule Almost all of the literary festival events are free and all are open to the public. Some do require reservations and/or tickets because of limited seating. A small fee will be charged for the On the Same Plate Luncheon. Call 336-846-ARTS for tickets, reservations and more details. The website www.onthesamepagefestival.org can be checked for festival updates and schedule changes.

In the meantime, the following event schedule should help festival attendees plan ahead.

Wednesday, September 14

Friday, September 16

Ashe County Public Library, 11:00 a.m. Dr. Allen Paul Speer reading, Q and A and discussion. Dr. Speer will share

Ashe County Public Library, 9:00 a.m. Cinnamon Cin-

portions of his family’s history from the Civil War era to present day, as is recorded in his books.

Ashe County High School, Time TBA, Many Begin-

ema, Life is Beautiful viewing and discussion of the film.

Ashe Civic Center, 1:30 p.m. Sharyn McCrumb reads,

nings creative writing workshop presented to Ashe County High School students by Georgann Eubanks

lectures and holds a Q&A on her newly released novel, The Ballad of Tom Dooley.

Saturday, September 17

Ashe Arts Center, 3:30 p.m. Skyline Membership Cooperative has produced a cookbook to celebrate its 60th anniversary. This is their third cookbook and it features recipes from customers and members. Proceeds from sales will benefit food banks covering all five counties that Skyline serves—Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watauga and Johnson.

Page Turner’s Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. By invitation only.

Held at the home of Chris Arvidson and Henry Doss.

Ashe County Farmers’ Market, Resource Books, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Vendors share their sources of inspiration, produce and other creations. On the Backstreet of West Jefferson.

Thursday, September 15

Ashe County Public Library, 10:00 a.m. Michael Ma-

(All of Thursday’s events will be held at the Ashe County Public Library.)

lone reading, discussion, Q&A.

9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Georgann Eubanks holds a creative writing workshop called Many Beginnings. Registration is required as seating is limited.

12:00 p.m. Georgann Eubanks holds court with an illustrated talk on North Carolina’s Literary Lineage Lunch. A boxed lunch is available by registration and at no charge to participants.

2:30 p.m. Jaki Shelton Greene reading, discussion and Q&A. 7:00 p.m. Mark de Castrique reading, discussion and Q&A.

Jefferson Station, 10:30 a.m. Suzi Parron reading, discussion, Q&A. Part of the Peacemaker’s Quilt Guild’s Annual Quilt Fair.

On the Same Plate, Location TBA 12:00 p.m. Luncheon and panel discussion with festival authors. Discussion regarding the role of family in writing. Moderated by Michael Malone. Tickets required as seating is limited. Nominal charge.

Page Crafter’s Award, Ashe County Public LIbrary, 2:30 p.m. Winners of the On the Same Page Literary Competition will share their writing and receive their awards.

On the Same Page was established to honor and celebrate the expansion of the Ashe County Library. As the building overlooking West Jefferson and seated atop an ivied hill took shape, so did the vision for the literary festival, which also focuses on reading in area schools.

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Greene, Mark de Castrique, Michael Malone, Wayne Caldwell, Georgann Eubanks and Dr. Allen Speer.

As a prelude to the festival, the Ashe County Public Library hosted a Community Read for the entire month of August. This event was also started four years ago, with one or two books chosen each time. Elie Wiesel’s Night is the selection, and tie-in events will dovetail with this now classic story of Wiesel’s stunning memoir relating his imprisonment as a teenager in a Nazi concentration camp.

Night

An open discussion of Night will be led by members of the Library Book Club at the Ashe Library on Tuesday, September 13, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Eliezer, or “Elie,” lived with his family in a town called Sighet in Transylvania. While it was occupied

by Germans in 1944, the Sighet residents and soldiers became friends in those early weeks. Then the trains came and Elie’s world was shattered as he and the other residents, entire families, were transported to concentration camps like cattle to the slaughterhouse. He was witness to his family’s murder. His faith in God destroyed. Starved and overworked.

The following paragraph, written

by Wiesel in the book, introduces Night: “Never shall I forget that night, the first night in camp, which has turned my life into one long night, seven times cursed and seven times sealed. Never shall I forget that smoke beneath a silent blue sky. Never shall I forget those flames which consumed my faith forever. Never shall I forget that nocturnal silence which deprived me, for all eternity, of the desire to live. Never shall I forget those moments which murdered my God and my soul and turned my dreams to dust. Never shall I forget these things, even if I am condemned to live as long as God himself. Never.”

An open discussion of Night will be led by members of the Library Book Club, at the Ashe Library, on Tuesday, September 13, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

A Community Event On the Same Page Literary Festival is not only intended to celebrate the library, the arts in Ashe County and the High Country, as well as to bring close-to-home authors closer still—it is also intended to be used as

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The Ashe County Arts Council and the Ashe County Public Library have collaborated to present 12 literary events over a period of four days in and around West Jefferson, a town that has fully embraced public art.

The On the Same Page literary festival weaves its way through and around some landmarks in the Ashe Arts corner of the county, on School Avenue and East Main Street in West Jefferson. The cow sculptures were created by Rusty Rogers’ welding class at the Ashe High School recently, and they have proven to be a real carstopper outside Ashe County’s famous cheese factory.

a vehicle to expand the reading and writing consciousness of community members. In that vein, festival organizers are coordinating with the library’s children’s and youth programs and will include at least one event at local schools. The Ashe County Public Library will also serve as the venue for several festival events, such 90

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as book discussions, author readings, the writing workshop and the Cinnamon Cinema featuring the movie, Life is Beautiful.

Hour with an Author events are planned as those proved to be a smashing success in previous years.

Writing Competition The Page Crafter’s Prize is the writ-

September 2011

ing competition held at this year’s On the Same Page Festival. This all-new addition awards a total of $1,200 to those who win or place, with $50 going to the thirdplace winner; $100 to second; and $250 for the story that takes first place. Judges will select by blind copy and winning entries will be read to the audience.

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Sugar Mountain’s Oktoberfest Celebration October 8th & 9th

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www.skisugar.com/oktoberfest 800-SUGAR-MT

Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain, NC 28604

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Story by Harris Prevost

Transforming the Golf Industry The History of the Golf Cart

T

he introduction of the golf cart in the early 1950s changed the game in several ways. Thousands of golfers with physical limitations now could continue playing the game they loved, and if they were out of the picture, many of our courses would not have been built. Also, many courses, especially in the mountains, never would have been built because they weren’t walkable.

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Westcoaster was one of the earliest golf carts made. George Smith, president of E.J. Smith Company of Charlotte, purchased several Westcoasters to try out in the Pinehurst area in the mid-1950s before he started the Pargo Golf Cart Company. Later in 1964 Smith sold Pargo to the Ruddick Company, owned

by Stuart and Alan Dickson, who have summer homes in Linville.

Not having those courses would reduce the employment level in our High Country counties. Obviously, jobs at the golf courses would not exist (10.5 percent of all jobs in Avery County come from its golf courses) but even more off-course jobs such as construction jobs for the houses around the courses would never have been here.

The revenues generated from cart rentals helped make financial ends meet for golf courses. In short, golf carts have grown the game, and with that growth came tremendous economic benefits for countless communities.

The High Country Connection Three of the important names in the history of golf cars—E-Z-GO, Club Car and Pargo, have important connections to the High Country. Pargo is no longer in the golf car business, but E-Z-GO and Club Car account for 72 percent of all golf cars in existence today.

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Linville, Blowing Rock, Diamond Creek, Grassy Creek, Mt. Mitchell, Boone and Beech Mountain use E-Z-GO. Mountaintop Golf Cars, one of the world’s largest suppliers of golf car parts and accessories, is based in Foscoe and is an E-Z-GO authorized dealer. (Note: The terms golf “car” and “cart” are used interchangeably by the public, and also in this article. Jack Triolo, owner of Mountaintop Golf Cars, explains why those in the industry call them cars: “A cart is pulled and a car is driven.”)

Grandfather, Linville Ridge, Mountain Glen, Sugar Mountain, Hound Ears, Elk River, Jefferson Landing, Mountain Aire, Willow Valley and Red Tail use Club Cars. Linville Land Harbor uses both.

Most of Land Harbor residents own their own carts, and they are split fairly evenly between the two.

The introduction of the golf car began a tidal wave that couldn’t be stopped, and two brothers, Beverly and Billy Dolan,

September 2011

were instrumental in getting the wave started. They founded the E-Z-GO golf car company in their hometown of Augusta, Ga. Beverly was founding president of the company and is affectionately known as the “Father of the Golf Car Industry.”

He has a home in Linville.

Pargo was a popular golf car in the late 1950s and ‘60s. The president of E.J. Smith Company, a major golf supply company based in Charlotte, was George Smith. He had family who were members of the Blowing Rock Country Club and was a frequent visitor to Blowing Rock and the High Country. Smith purchased Pargo and later sold it to the Ruddick Corporation, the parent company of the Harris-Teeter grocery store chain. Ruddick was led by brothers Stuart and Alan Dickson. Although the Dicksons and Beverly Dolan were competitors at one time, they are long-time friends in both Charlotte and Linville.

Many owners personalize their golf carts, and Mountaintop Golf Cars in Foscoe is one of the world’s leading supplier of parts and accessories.

Club Car’s High Country connection is indirect. At one time its president was Billy Dolan, Beverly’s brother.

Car Stories The interwoven story of E-Z-GO, Pargo and Club Car is filled with intrigue, wheeling and dealing and drama. It began with Beverly Dolan and his older brother Billy sitting on the porch at the Augusta National clubhouse during the 1954 Masters golf tournament.

The two brothers were close. Bev remembers, “It was April and I was getting out of the Army in July and I was looking for something to do. A golf car, which was called an Autoette, went by. It was being brought up for Bobby Jones.

“Billy made the comment, ‘You know, somebody is going to make a lot of money out of those things one of these days.’

Well, I had ‘rabbit ears’ looking for something to do when I got out of the service.

I went back to Ft. Jackson and two weeks later I called my brother and said when I get out I wanted to start building golf cars, and would he like to join me. On June 12 I was discharged from the Army, and we started E-Z-GO the next day. I got $200 ‘mustering out pay’ and invested $103 for a motor that operated the wing flaps for B-17 bombers. We hooked this up to a 36volt battery and away we went—we had our first golf car.”

Bob Kletcke, now retired as head golf professional at Augusta National and Grandfather Golf & Country Club, said of the brothers, “Bev handled the inner workings. He had the brains (he majored in physics at the University of Georgia).

Billy was the salesman and entertainer.

He did whatever it took to sell golf carts, and they both were very good at what they did.”

Other entrepreneurs had the same idea as the Dolans about golf cars. Many new manufacturers suddenly appeared in the mid- to late 1950s, but by the early ‘60s most disappeared. Not the Dolans and EZ-GO. They were operating out of a oneroom machine shop in Augusta when they heard of a man named Paul Corley who owned a large machine shop filled with equipment outside of Augusta that was sitting idle. The Dolans made Corley their third partner and averaged building about 40 cars per month in their new shop.

About that time, George Smith, president of E.J. Smith, heard about a golf car being built in California called Autoette, and later a more advanced model called a Westcoaster. Smith purchased three of each and tried them out at the Pine Needles Club in Southern Pines. The carts were more trouble to maintain than they were worth, so Smith looked to the South instead of the West for his carts. He heard what the Dolans were doing in Augusta so he spent three days with them. Smith purchased 100 golf carts from E-Z-GO. “It was a pretty good car,” Smith remembered.

The purchase helped jump-start E-ZGO. E.J. Smith was a major golf supplier and a great customer for the Dolans. The company was founded in Florida by E.J. Smith (the father) in the early 1920s. In 1925, it formed an association with Toro to distribute its turf maintenance equipment. It moved to Charlotte in 1933 and in 1943 it acquired Southeast distribution rights for Acushnet products, including Titleist golf balls. In addition to accessories,

equipment and balls, Smith sold a large variety of golf-related products such as seed, fertilizer and a line of golf clothing.

Getting into golf cars seemed like an obvious next step for George Smith. “I was encouraged because golf was growing so fast,” he explained, “and I believed that the growth of golf would be limited by the availability of caddies. And that was starting to become a reality. So my brother Wayne and I figured that the future of golf was in some form of transportation. And that is the main reason we took an interest in golf cars.”

Smith sold some of the 100 E-Z-GOs they ordered and rented the rest to Pinehurst. Pinehurst, with its eight golf courses, remains an E-Z-GO customer today.

Afterwards, E.J. Smith signed a contract to be the distributor of E-Z-GOs in the Southeast. Smith used his vast network of contacts in the golf industry to build dealerships in other parts of the country.

At the same time, Billy Dolan traveled around the country towing a golf cart with his car and creating new markets for golf cars. Bev Dolan said that about that time, President Eisenhower was recovering from a heart attack, and doctors made him ride a cart when he played golf.

Seeing a very popular president riding a cart convinced others to ride. The golf car industry was now growing rapidly, and EZ-GO was at the center of it.

After three years, the relationship between E-Z-GO and E.J. Smith Company soured a bit. Smith said he needed more cars than E-Z-GO could produce. The Dolans felt Smith was squeezing them too tightly on their selling price. Meanwhile, the Dolans’ partner, Paul Corley, a feisty

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Jack Triolo (left), the owner of Mountaintop Golf Cars, visited with Bob Kletcke, who is retired as the head pro at Grandfather Country Club and Augusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters. Kletcke hired Jack to service the golf carts at Grandfather and later helped him secure an E-Z-GO distributorship.

sort, was becoming increasingly difficult to get along with. One day, the relationship between Billy Dolan and Paul Corley came to an impasse. Corley told Billy that he had not signed a lease to use his building to build carts and that he and his brother had to leave.

Bev Dolan saw the breakup from a different point of view. He said that they went to work one day and the factory doors were locked. Dolan asked Corley what was going on and Corley said that he and George Smith were forming their own company. He would be making the cars and Smith would distribute them. Corley basically said they didn’t need the Dolans anymore.

The company was called the Columbia Car Company (named for Columbia County in Georgia where the manufacturing plant was located) and their golf car was named Pargo, an E.J. Smith brand meaning “go for par.” In 1957, the new golf car partnership was formed with four principles: Corley, George 96

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Smith, his brother Wayne and Bill Isbester, a top E-Z-GO official who defected to the other side. By 1961, the Smiths had serious enough personality differences with Corley that they bought him out and moved their manufacturing operations to Charlotte.

In 1961, the same year Pargo was moving to Charlotte and expanding their business, E-Z-GO caught the eye of the industrial giant Textron (37,000 employees today in 29 countries, makers of Bell Helicopters and Cessna aircraft plus many other products). A deal was worked out with the Dolans for the sale and instantly, E-Z-GO had the financial backing to take its business to a totally different level. E-Z-GO went from industry leader to the dominant brand in golf cars. The Dolans would continue to run E-Z-GO, and the new relationship flourished. George Smith said, “When Textron bought E-Z-GO, I think they recognized Beverly’s ability. He eventually became CEO of Textron.”

Pargo continued to grow, too, along

with the game of golf. Smith remembers, “We were making cars and doing quite well. Golf cars became an important commodity in the golf car business. I had several offers to sell the business. It grew to the point I could not devote enough time to both Pargo and E.J. Smith. I had to get out of the golf car business. My health was not good enough to do both of them.” In 1964, Smith accepted an offer from the Dickson brothers. They owned a private equity company named Ruddick that nurtured a number of enterprises into existence.

Two of their holdings were the American & Efird thread company and the HarrisTeeter upscale grocery store chain.

Alan Dickson said, “We thought we could build Pargo up. Pargo didn’t have modern manufacturing facilities, and it was on the low end of the scale compared to E-Z-GO. Through my connections with Nissan’s textile machinery division, I inquired about their making our golf cars. We would essentially become a leasing company.

“Nissan was interested, but they wanted to see one of our carts first, so we shipped it over to Japan. They offered us a competitive price to build them. About that time we received an offer from LaFrance Industries, maker of fire trucks. The economy was bad in the early ‘70s due to the recession, inflation and high interest rates.

It made our business hard because it took more and more capital to finance a golf car leasing operation. We decided to get out of the business. It was a wise decision because the change in the exchange rate with the yen would have killed us.”

LaFrance later sold Pargo to a manufacturer of golf car-type vehicles for industrial use. By 1975, Pargo was no longer in the business of producing golf cars for golf.

Bill Stevens, an Augusta native, worked for his father at Stevens Trucking Company. Eight years after the Dolans founded E-Z-GO, Stevens heard about a man who was making aluminum golf carts called Club Car in Dallas, Texas. Stevens de-

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Golf carts today have multiple uses that have nothing to do with golf. Some are used by universities, airports, professional sports teams, NASCAR, farms and, No. 1, by hunters.

cided to purchase the company and bring the golf car production to Augusta. From the beginning, in 1962, the relationship between the two Augusta companies was strained.

Club Car continued to grow for the next decade. It, like E-Z-GO, started attracting attention. The suitor this time was Johns Manville, a manufacturer of plastic pipe and sprinkler systems. The company wanted to get into the golf business and thought golf carts would be the perfect entry.

Johns Manville decided to make a purchase offer for Club Car, but it didn’t want the company to know who was making the offer. Stevens was not interested in selling to an unknown buyer.

Johns Manville then enlisted the services of legendary golf course architect Robert Trent Jones. Jones was good friends with George Smith, who had just sold his golf cart business to the Dicksons. Jones convinced Smith, who was a friend of 98

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Stevens, to be a “technical golf car advisor” for Johns Manville and help front the sale. Stevens still refused.

Finally Johns Manville relented and invited Stevens to their Denver headquarters. There, they offered to purchase both Club Car and Stevens Trucking. Stevens balked and said maybe the golf car company but not the trucking company. The two went round and round for several months on the price and finally Johns Manville agreed to pay Stevens his original asking price. The purchase closed in February 1974, and Stevens stayed on as operations manager.

With financial backing in place, Club Car purchased a vacant manufacturing plant that increased their size almost tenfold. Club Car continued to grow, but Johns Manville realized their strategy to enter the golf business wasn’t going to work like they thought. Johns Manville decided to take their company in a different direction.

The Split In the meantime, across town at EZ-GO, a number of changes were taking place that were uncomfortable for some members of its senior executive staff. The

changes during that time at E-Z-GO and Club Car set the stage for one of the most dramatic events in the history of the golf cart industry.

Textron liked the way Bev Dolan was running E-Z-GO, and they saw a greater use of his management ability within the company. In 1971, Textron sent Bev to the Harvard Senior Management Institute for a 14-week program. What he learned there, and the friends he made there, opened his eyes to greater career possibilities at Textron.

“In 1973, Textron asked me if I would move to Minneapolis to straighten out their Polaris snowmobile company,” Bev said. “I had lived in Augusta all my life, and this was something new, so I did it. I stayed there three years and got the company turned around. Next, Textron said they had a chain saw company in Charlotte called Homelite that was in trouble and asked if I would go there and straighten them out. So I went to Charlotte.”

George Inman was the next highest ranking senior executive at E-Z-GO behind Bev Dolan. With Dolan away from the day-to-day operations of E-Z-GO for several years, Inman and the other senior

executives ran the company. Billy Dolan had taken on some other business interests in the 1970s and wasn’t that involved with the company, but that changed. Inman said, “When Bev went to Minneapolis, Billy began to show a greater interest and became more involved. He began to come in and chat and ask what was going on. All of a sudden, his interest was hyped up.”

Inman and his management group felt that competition from a cheap E-Z-GO knockoff golf car named Melex that was built in Poland was beginning to make inroads into their market share, and it was time for a new golf car with a lightweight body made of fiberglass instead of heavier and more expensive steel. Billy Dolan had a lot of input into the design of the new model.

Beverly Dolan was presented with the new golf car proposal, and he emphatically turned it down. In a 2002 interview, Inman said this about Bev’s decision: “I think he felt like we had finally crossed over into some great products, and it was not timely to recreate something that was not needed. It was basically a business decision on his part and in retrospect, it was probably a good decision.” Even though Bev’s decision not to build a fiberglass

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Homer Ketchie test-drives a street-legal golf cart. Golf cars can be driven on some streets in area towns, including Blowing Rock.

golf cart proved wise in retrospect, his brother Billy and E-Z-GO’s management team felt frustrated at the time.

Inman said, “Looking back on it, after the new car project was scrapped, several of us became concerned about what was happening at E-Z-GO and the Textron family. It appeared to us that some of us would lose our jobs and some would be moved to other cities, and things were not going to be as they had been for the last 12 to 14 years.

“I would have cut, bled and died for Bev,” he continued. “If he had said to jump off the cliff with him, I would have jumped off the cliff. However, things began to change as they often do as companies get larger. Probably the time that started us thinking about leaving was when Bev was trying to regroup the Polaris Snowmobile Company and put it together with E-ZGO. He formed a senior executive officer group in charge of the various departments. These individuals were strangers to us. These officers essentially cut off the personal relationship we had had for many years working with Bev.” Bev agreed. “Probably the thing that set it off was when I hired a new president of E-Z-GO,” he said. “When I went to Charlotte to Homelite, I made this fellow president of E-Z-GO and Polaris to take my place. This was not a real popular move. I made what I thought was the best decision for the company at the time.

They didn’t like it.”

Inman continued, “Five of us decided to find something else to do. We were all relatively young with families and financial obligations. Each of us had a great desire to enhance our career possibilities. However, with the changes that we saw within Textron, we felt we could not do it at E-Z-GO.” The group of five grew to eight, and it included Bev’s brother Billy, co-founder of E-Z-GO. They spent more than two years thinking about what to do—whether to stay or go—and what course of action to take if they left. They decided buying Club Car, their cross-town rival, made the most sense. They would be working in an industry they excelled in and they would not have to leave Augusta.

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Johns Manville, and it turned out they were ready to exit the golf car business.

The eight eventually hooked up with a venture capital company in Nashville, Tenn., that made the financing possible.

One of the new investors was Dave Thomas, founder of Wendy’s. In February 1978, when the deal to purchase Club Car was going through, the eight drafted a letter to Textron tendering their resignation.

The news sent shock waves through E-Z-GO and Textron and strained the relationship of long-time friends, and in the case of Billy and Bev, family. Bev was upset that the eight were being paid to look after the best interests of E-Z-GO while they were planning their move to become a competitor. And to top it off, his brother became its new president.

The expertise of the former E-Z-GO leaders transformed Club Car. Bev said, “They made Club Car go; they knew how to do it. So Club Car was reborn and they did a good job. They made a few changes.

Changed the styling of their car. They saw an opportunity with Club Car and moved on it. If I’d been in their shoes, I’d probably have done the same thing, but I wouldn’t have done it in the dark of the night. It was unnecessary.” Despite the pain of the split, Bev sent each of the eight a note congratulating them on their purchase and wishing them well.

Five years later, Billy was squeezed out as Club Car president. He and Bev reconciled, and they became close again.

Things went well for the two brothers

September 2011

until Billy suffered a paralyzing stroke in 1986. He died two years later.

Club Car continued to grow and in 1986, it was purchased by a financial investment group. After being purchased a couple more times, Club Car came under the ownership umbrella of Ingersoll-Rand in 1995. Just as Textron enabled E-Z-GO to dramatically grow, Ingersoll-Rand did the same for Club Car. Today, Club Car and E-Z-GO have approximately the same market share.

A Challenging Future Despite the two companies’ success, storm clouds are on the horizon. The number of golfers and the number of golf courses in the United States have shrunk in the past decade, and the economy and housing crisis have sped up the decline.

Suddenly, E-Z-G0 and Club Car share 72 percent of a smaller market, and further shrinkage is inevitable. So, what is the future of the golf car industry?

The answer is one that all in the golf car industry agree on. They see limited opportunity on the golf course but unlimited opportunities off it. The golf cart is fast becoming a “personal transportation vehicle” and a utility vehicle.

With less rounds of golf played, fewer golf carts are used. Since E-Z-GO and Club Car lease most of their carts, they still own them after the leases are up.

They replace the old carts with new carts, but they can’t sell the older ones fast enough to keep inventory from piling up.

Thus, the golf car companies are looking for alternative uses.

One alternative use is golf courses in other countries. Although the sport is stalled out at the moment in the United States, it is growing like crazy in a number of countries including the most populated in the world, China.

Other uses center around the PTV (personal transportation vehicle) and the LSV (low speed vehicle). In today’s climate of high gas prices and the desire to be green and reduce pollution, the electric golf car makes a lot of sense. They are used by colleges and cities that traditionally have narrow roads, walkways and few parking spaces. Golf cars can go up to 35 mph on highways without having to conform to the National Highway Safety Administration’s rules.

Beverly Dolan said, “With electric automobiles coming on the scene now, you will see a lot of electric vehicles. They are limited, short-mileage vehicles. Recharging batteries takes more time than filling up with gas. However, there are worlds of applications for cars that don’t go very far. There is room for these vehicles.”

Huge retirement communities like Sun

City, Peach Tree City and The Villages use carts to get around. They are very popular at Linville Land Harbor and even at the Linville Golf Club, where members rent a cart for a season and use it to drive to the clubhouse for golf or a meal or to a friend’s party.

Stadiums, racetracks and sports teams use them, as does the military, medical centers and marinas. They are outfitted not to carry golf bags but passengers or small cargo. They are used for maintenance and farming where the competition is not so much E-Z-GO versus Club Car as it is versus John Deere. Guess who the No.1 users of golf cars are—hunters!

Jack Triolo’s Mountaintop Golf Cars has had to change, too. He has gone from selling golf cars and having service contracts with area golf courses to selling parts and accessories around the world through his website golfcarcatalog.com.

Triolo’s customers include the Arizona Diamondbacks major league baseball team, various NASCAR racing teams and universities and customers in countries like Turkey, Australia, Germany, Mexico and Great Britain.

Considering that people are creative and individualistic by nature, it’s no sur-

prise that owners of PTVs want to jazz up their “golf car” a bit, and Jack is happy to help them find the accessories to do that.

The PTVs on the road today bear little resemblance to their golf course cousins.

Back at the turn of the century, some businesses that made horse-drawn buggies faced a similar identity crisis, and they responded by making better buggies.

They got it wrong and went out of business. They didn’t realize they were in the transportation business, not the horseand-buggy business. Likewise, the future of golf car manufacturers belongs to those who understand that a golf car has really never been a “golf car.” It is a personal transportation vehicle that happens to transport people around a golf course.

The next Beverly Dolan, the visionary “father of the golf car,” will be the person who totally understands what the origin of the name of the E-Z-GO golf car means and will make that vehicle “an easy way to go.”

w

Special thanks goes to Jack Triolo’s extensive interviews with the leaders of the golf car industry, found in the archives section of his golfcarcatalog.com website.

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Summer Dining Guide Summer Dining season isn’t over yet in the High Country, and there’s no better time to enjoy a casual lunch, a relaxing brunch or a romantic dinner. For your culinary inspiration, you’ll find dozens of fine establishments in the following pages.

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summer dining Bandanas Boone. Serving Boone and the North Carolina High Country since 1996, Bandana’s is a local favorite for great food, service with a smile, and exceptional dining value. All of their Bar-B-Que items are smoked on premises using a unique blend of local hardwoods. Best known for their Baby Back Ribs, the Bandana’s culinary team smokes the ribs until they are tender and juicy. After marinating in their signature Bar-B-Que sauce, the ribs are grilled to perfection! Also, be sure to check out the fresh Salad Bar, which has over forty items from which to choose. n 828-2652828. www.bandanasbarbque.com

bella’s Banner elk. Bella’s Neighborhood Italian Restaurant is a local favorite and serves the best Italian cuisine in town. Everything is made to order with the finest homemade ingredients.

Bella’s is known for authentic Italian food along with a variety of delicious hand-tossed pizza. Perfect for families, locals and visitors alike. Come dine with the Fellas from Bella’s and you are guaranteed not to go home hungry! Located across from Sugar Mountain in the Food Lion Shopping Center. n 828-898-9022. www.bellasNC.net.

The Best Cellar Blowing Rock. The Best Cellar restaurant has been a favorite among locals for decades. Located in The Inn at Ragged Gardens in downtown Blowing Rock, The Best Cellar offers 11 elegant rooms, seasonal gardens and serves lunch and dinner daily. Reservations are suggested. n 828-295-3466. www.ragged-gardens.com.

BLOWING ROCK GRILLE blowing rock. Blowing Rock Grille provides an upbeat, exciting dining experience offering a wide variety of prices and choices. Enjoy your meal outside on the scenic sidewalk garden courtyard or dine in the warm and inviting atmosphere found inside.. The

A Perfect Evening Join us on Thursdays for our lively seafood buffet, or another evening for one of Chef Maisonhaute’s savory offerings such as Boeuf Bourguignon or Grilled Mountain Rainbow Trout.

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summer dining Grille serves lunch and dinner and offers homemade soups, vegetable plates, delicious sandwiches and salads. Along with fabulous nightly specials, you will find a consistent, quality meal among the dinner menu options, including fresh fish, pasta, pork, and aged premium steaks. Bert’s Bar offers a unique wine list, as well as your favorite beverage! n 828-295-9474.

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BOONE BAGELRY BOONE. Boone’s oldest bagel shop serves 17 types of freshly baked bagels and hundreds of other menu items.

Boone Bagelry is a full-service restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch all day. Patio dining is available, and Boone Bagelry also offers eat in, take out or delivery options. n 828-262-5585.

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YOUR PRESCRIPTION FOR A GOOD DAY!

summer dining BOONE DRUG Boone. Celebrating 90 Years!

The downtown old soda fountain and grill features “hand-dipped ice cream, real cherry and vanilla Cokes and old-fashioned grill items made to order.” Boone Drug also offers gift cards and gifts for any occasion. n 828-264-3766.

CAFÉ PORTOFINO BOONE. Café Portofino offers a casual atmosphere and truly 5-star dining. The self-described “Garlic House” menu is a creative mix of Thai, Eurasian and Italian influences. For afterhours entertainment, check out the adjoining taproom with billiards, darts, and fifty bottle and draft beers from around the world. n 828-264-7772. www.cafeportofino.net

Canyons Blowing Rock. This historic restaurant and bar is known for its spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its scrumptious southwestern and ordinary American eats. Make a trip out on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings to enjoy live, local music that will keep your toes tapping all night. n 828-295-7661. www.CanyonsBR.com

Capone’s Boone. Capone’s has been voted “Best Pizza in the High Country”, and for good reason. With a great beer list, pizzas, strombolies, calzones, and pastas, Capone’s is a great place to stifle your hunger and quench your thirst.

Try the Super Supreme Pizza, which has pepperoni, bacon, peppers, mushrooms, fresh garlic, and onions. The staff favorite is Machine-Gun Mike’s, which is composed of a mouthwatering combination of teriyaki chicken, pineapple, bacon, and teriyaki sauce. n 828-265-1886

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summer dining CASA RUSTICA BOONE. Casa Rustica offers some of the finest Northern Italian-American cuisine in the High Country accentuated by a cozy, fireside atmosphere. Casa Rustica’s extensive wine list is updated every 30 days to include interesting vintages and new organics. Enjoy live jazz every Thursday night and classical guitar every Sunday. All ABC permits. n 828-262-

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Cha Da Thai Boone. Cha Da Thai is the only authentic Thai cuisine in the area. Cha Da Thai offers an extensive menu and daily specials. A few favorites inclue Pad Thai served with Tamarind base red sauce and Pad Gra Pow with special Thai basil leaves. From sweet to sour and from salty to spicy, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste. Located on Howards Street. n 828-268-0434. www.ChaDaThai-NC.com

Char modern american restaurant BOONE. char...where New York City meets the Blue Ridge Mountains! A unique, contemporary bistro located in downtown Boone, offering diverse, creative and delectable brunch, lunch and dinner cuisine in a warm, open, cosmopolitan setting. char also features a covered deck and a sleek modern bar.

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Chick-fil-a Boone. With so much to do in the High Country, you’ll want to refuel quickly to have time for it all. Whether it’s a pre-hike breakfast or a lunch break during your epic, daylong shopping extravaganza, you can count on Chickfil-A for a delicious way to fill up fast. n 828-264-4660. www.chick-fil-a.com 106

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summer dining crippen’s Blowing rock. Chef Stan Chamberlain is making a name for himself as diners post opinions on tripadvisor.com and opentable.com keeping Crippen’s the #1 restaurant in Blowing Rock and Top 5 in Western North Carolina! Enjoy the casual atmosphere and fine dining restaurant, with a daily menu featuring a variety of Artisan breads, homemade soups, creative appetizers, fresh seafood, meats and game, and delicious homemade desserts. Be sure to ask your server about the eclectic wine list too! n 828-295-3487.

www.crippens.com

Crossroads Pub BOONE. With over 35 years experience in the restaurant industry, Crossroads Pub aims high to provide guests with a comfortable and fun dining experience!

Be sure to settle into some homemade comfort food, like Mamma’s Meatloaf and Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Featuring karaoke on Wednesdays, live music of all types on Fridays and a DJ on Saturdays, Crossroads Pub offers a wide array of entertainments for all to enjoy. n 828-

266-9190. www.crossroadspub.net

DAN’L BOONE INN BOONE. Serving for 50 years, Dan’l Boone Inn offers diners home cooked, family-style meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dan’l Boone Inn’s country cuisine has been honored by both Southern Living and Our State magazines. The Inn takes reservations for parties of 15 or more. n 825-264-8657.

www.danlbooneinn.com.

The Eseeola Lodge linville. Guests enjoy breakfast and dinner daily as part of their accommodations package, but all High Country visitors are welcome. The menu changes daily, and also offers an extraordinary seafood buffet every Thursday evening with seatings at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Reservations are required, and gentlemen are required to wear a coat for the evening meal. n 800-742-6717. www.eseeola.com

CAPONE’S uNtOuChAblE!

Specializing in NY Style & Chicago Style Gourmet hand-tossed Pizza!

Pizza like No Other !

828-265-1886

454b West King St. Downtown boone across from the turchin Center September 2011

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summer dining

Celebrating 4 years in the High Country

Foggy Rock BLOWING ROCK. Opened in October 2010, Foggy Rock Eatery and Pub is chef Burt Myers’ next original restaurant in the High Country. Enjoy a casual dining experience for both lunch and dinner and great food at low prices. Foggy Rock has a Blowing Rock décor and the pub has the most TVs in town, with all the sports channels and more. Check out the 15 drafts that include local breweries! n 828-295-8084. www.foggy-rock.com

Gamekeeper Blowing Rock. Housed in a 1950s stone cottage, The Gamekeeper is an upscale restaurant that offers an eclectic mix of Southern foods and mountain cuisine, including mountain trout, buffalo rib eye, ostrich, duck and beef tenderloin. The friendly staff literally waits on you hand and foot, assuring that you’ll leave happy and satisfied. The restaurant is located off Shulls Mill Road near Yonahlossee Resort. n 828-963-7400.

www.Gamekeeper-NC.com

Hearthstone Tavern and Grille

Local and Organic Foods Outdoor Dining in Downtown Boone All ABC Permits Open Wed-Sun Brunch 10-5 • Dinner 5-10

828-262-5000

506 West King Street Boone NC 28607 www.hobnobfarmcafe.com 108

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BANNER ELK. With a warm mountain ambiance, great American food, and outstanding personal service, Hearthstone is the place to join family and friends for the best of High Country dining. Come by and relax, have an extraordinary meal, and discover memories you will savor for a lifetime. n 828-898-3461

www.hearthstonetavern.net

Hob Nob Farm Café Boone. Hob Nob Farm Café is the only restaurant in Boone to offer local meats year-round. Our beef, sausage & chicken are local all the time (beef & sausage supplied by New River Organic Growers and the chicken by Springer Mountain). In addition Mike and Nova have their own farm, where

September 2011

• The High Country’s only made from scratch, boiled & baked on premises • All Natural Recipe • No Fats or Preservatives

BREAKFAST & LUNCH

828-265-4141 Mon- Fri: 7am - 2pm • Sat: 8am - 2pm & Sun: 9am- 2pm

www.mountainbagels.com 211 Boone Heights Drive • Boone (Turn at Burger King on Hwy 321)

www.hobnobfarmcafe.com

JOY Bistro Boone. Purveyors of Fine Food & Drink. Chef/Owners Melissa Joy and Gary Claude welcome you to come in and enjoy delicious food and delightful cocktails in a casual, warm and inviting setting. Fresh and always seasonal ingredients are used in our nightly specials as in our superb menu. Full bar, extensive wine list, & craft beers. n 828-265-0500 www.joybistroboone.com.

LOS ARCOIRIS Boone. On a search for the perfect Mexican meal? Los Arcoiris is just the place. This restaurant not only offers incredible, fresh Mexican cuisines, Los Arcoiris has a welcoming atmosphere and great service. Imagine enjoying freshly prepared Mexican dishes like burritos and chimichangas tucked away in a cozy booth surrounded by authentic Mexican murals. Los Arcoiris is able to satisfy any craving with vegetarian and children-friendly dishes also available. n 828-264-7770

louisiana purchase Banner elk. The only fine dining Cajun and Creole restaurant within a 200-mile radius, Louisiana Purchase offers a seasonal menu that changes every six weeks. The restaurant boasts the second-largest wine list of any restaurant in the state and is a favorite for its quality in both food and service. n 828-963-5087.

louisianapurchasefoodandspirits.com

Over 120 Small Tapas Plates

the focus is on fruits and vegetables for the restaurant. Hob Nob Farm Café also offers a variety of vegetarian dishes. Try the Watauga Farm Burger, which is made of locally grass fed beef, topped with smoked gouda, onion, lettuce, and tomato, served with chili aioli and Dijion mustard. n 828-262-5000.

Progressive Alternative Dining

Open Daily 4pm-until...

502 West Main St. Banner Elk

www.zuzda.com 828-898-4166

Two Fabulous Bars • All ABC Permits

summer dining

Extensive Wine Selection • Live Music Fri. & Sat.

The Manor House Restaurant at Chetola Resort Chef Michael Barbato

NER WIN11 20

Fire on the Rock

3 Course Prix Fixe Dinner

$28.00

Includes Starter, Entrée, Dessert

Try our brand new menu selections 828-295-5505 www.chetola.com September 2011

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summer dining

Mexican and Seafood Restaurant

Makoto’s Boone. Dining at Makoto’s Japanese Seafood and Steak House is an unique experience. During your visit, a waiter will guarantee you a pleasant dining time. If you’re lucky, your personal chef will provide a little free culinary entertainment while cooking your dish right in front of you. Makoto’s also offers a lunch and dinner sushi bar and full ABC permits. n 828-264-7976. www.makatos-boone.com.

The Manor House restaurant at chetola resort BLOWING ROCK. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch in the high country’s most magnificent setting overlooking Chetola Lake and the mountains. Dine indoors or on the

Try our Puerto Nuevo Special Quesadilla 12-inch flour tortilla with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp and vegetables with rice or beans, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream and guacamole

Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily 2120 Tynecastle Hwy • Banner Elk 828-898-3332

Fresh Italian Cuisine

• Patio Dining • Live Music • Daily Specials Located at Boone Mall next to TJ Maxx

828-355-9800

Tues-Sat 11-9 • Sun 12-5:30 primosrestaurantofboone.com 110

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summer dining lake front patio. Three course Prix Fixe Dinners are served nightly for $28.00 per person & feature Grilled Flat Iron Steak, Grilled Wild Salmon and 5 other delicious selections. n 828-295-5505.

Join us as three NC James Beard-Nominated chefs wow us in September!

Make Your Reservations Now! RESERVATIONS:

828/295-3487 www.Crippens.com LUNCH & DINNER:

Bruce Moffett of Barrington’s

Tuesday–Sunday

SEPT. 13

239 Sunset Dr. Blowing Rock

www.chetola.com

(Just off Main Street)

Mountain Bagels Boone. Known as serving up the “Best Bagels south of New York”, Mountain Bagels has been feeding hungry mouths with quality fresh food for everyone.

From homemade Quiches and signature deli sandwiches made with Boar’s Head meats & cheese to made to order salads and a Lebanese menu featuring Hummus, Babaganouch (seasonal), Falafel & more, Mountain Bagels has something for everyone. n 828-265-4141.

Bill Smith of Crook’s Corner

SEPT. 20

Keith Rhodes from Catch

SEPT. 27

www.mountainbagels.com

The Painted Fish BANNER ELK. The Painted Fish Café and Beer Bar prides itself on its upscale environment with a relaxed, casual ambiance. The café features inspired food, fun beers, and superb wines all at surprisingly reasonable prices. Organic and locally grown and raised ingredients are used whenever possible. Enjoy the outdoor dining area perfect for friends and family! n 828-898-6800.

www.paintedfishcafe.com

PAPA JOE’S Blowing rock. Locally owned and operated since 1982, Papa Joe’s offers casual dining in a warm, friendly atmosphere. The menu is made up of Italian-American cuisine, steaks, seafood, pastas, chicken, pizzas, sandwiches, and more. Papa Joe’s bar has all ABC permits and is fully stocked. This is a great place for fun and food with friends or family! n 828-295-3239.

PRIMO’S BOONE. Diners keep coming back to Primo’s for the Parmigiana Sub served hot with marinara, mozzarella cheese and your choice of eggplant, meatballs, veal or chicken all mouth-watering to September 2011

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summer dining

It’s Always Trout Season

In Blowing Rock!

any taste. Or how about the penne Oscar made with jumbo crab meat, roasted red peppers and garlic, sautéed together with marinara, a touch of cream and penne pasta. n 828-355-9800. www.

primosrestaurantofboone.com.

PUERTO NUEVO BANNER ELK. You would be hard pressed to find a local who is not in love with Puerto Nuevo Mexican Restaurant in Banner Elk. Puerto Nuevo’s authentic flavors shine in the Pollo Poblano, grilled chicken breast served with sliced poblano peppers, Chihuahua cheese, onions, pico de gallo, rice, beans and flour tortillas. Or tempt your taste buds with the Burritos Tipicos, two rolled, flour tortillas filled with tender beef tips, beans and topped with nacho cheese sauce and guacamole salad, Mucho Grande. n 828-898-3332.

The high CounTry’s Premiere sTeak & seafood house Since 1985

Serving Sunday Brunch through Labor Day 11am-2pm Highway 184 • Downtown Banner Elk Serving Daily From 5pm All ABC Permits Children’s Menu Available

828-898-5550 • www.stonewallsrestaurant.com 112

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SERVING A VARIETY OF FRESH SEAFOOD, POULTRY, LOCAL MOUNTAIN TROUT, ANGUS BEEF, SARA’S BABY BACK RIBS, HOMEMADE SOUPS AND SALADS.

LOBSTERFEST - Every Thursday

Call Ahead By Tuesday To reserve Your Lobster

828.295.9819 • Main Street, Blowing Rock

Serving Dinner

Tuesday - Saturday 5:00pm - 9:00pm

summer dining Red Onion Café Boone. The Red Onion Café has created its niche in the High Country for more than 30 years by offering a welcoming atmosphere and an extensive menu at affordable prices. The café has something for every member of the family, including burgers, sandwiches, wraps, pizza, pasta, fish, steak and delicious homemade desserts. The Red Onion Café also offers several of the region’s top beer and wines to compliment any meal. The outside patio is perfect for lunch or for warm evenings. n 828-264-5470.

www.theredonioncafe.com.

Revive!

Blowing rock. Local owners Doug & Tonda MacLeod of “Revive!

Java, Juice & Gelato” are committed to reviving the best traditions. Tonda recalls, “My mom’s family always prepared the best food in the mountains of North Carolina. Great-aunt Gertie would pick fresh fruit, gather eggs, milk her cow, and then churn a special frozen treat. The creamy texture and amazing taste were simply unforgettable.” Revive! never uses any ingredients that great-aunt Gertie wouldn’t use. Their artisan gelato is made fresh daily using organic milk, free-range chicken eggs and local produce. Stop by and treat yourself to this delectable experience or an espresso drink while browsing their selection of Appalachian novels, crafts and art. n 828-295-7676

Modern Mountain Cuisine

Speckled Trout Café Blowing Rock. Since 1986, the Speckled Trout Cafe & Oyster Bar has been pleasing both locals and visitors with its exquisite choices for dinner.

The house specialty is smoked rainbow trout from local waters, but the extensive menu covers everything from steak to roast duckling to catfish. Reservations are recommended. n 828-295-9819.

www.speckledtroutcafe.com.

TOP 50 U.S. Restaurants As ranked by over 7 million OpenTable reviews

Shulls Mill Rd beside Yonahlossee

www.gamekeeper-nc.com

(828) 963-7400 September 2011

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summer dining STICK BOY BREAD CO. Boone. This small, family-owned artisan bakery is where you can find high quality baked goods along with great service for a special experience you surely will not forget. Stick Boy Bread Co. offers everything from freshly baked breads and steaming cappuccinos to delicious cinnamon rolls and decadent chocolate tortes. The best part is that everything is made right there in the bakery using the best ingredients and methods.

Nothing served is shipped frozen from thousands of miles away like in most “supermarket” bakeries. Nothing is taken out of a box, put in the oven for 10 minutes, and then labeled “fresh baked”.

Be sure to check out the real-deal bread makers in Boone! n 828-268-9900. www.stickboybread.com

simple, seasonal, memorable Our artisan gelatos &sorbets are handmade daily from fresh,local ingredients.

A contemporar y American bistro ser ving local meats and seasonal produce

------------------Bring This Ad For 10% off Any One Item

828.295.7075 | www.storiestreetg rille .com 1167 Main St., Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Monday through Saturday | Lunch and Dinner Andrew Long, Executive Chef & General Manager.

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(828) 295-7676

summer dining Stonewalls BANNER ELK. The High Country’s premier steak and seafood house has been Stonewalls Tavern since 1985.

Enjoy your favorite steaks, prime rib, chicken, or baby back rib entrée, or choose from the extensive seafood selection and daily specials. Serving daily from 5:00 p.m. in a casual, family-friendly dining atmosphere. Also serving Sunday Brunch from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. through Labor Day. All ABC permits. n 828-898-5550. www.stonewallsrestaurant.com

storie street grille Blowing Rock. Storie Street Grille, located in the heart of downtown Blowing Rock, is a contemporary American bistro, serving memorable dishes in warm, comfortable surroundings. Local meats and produce are the core of our seasonal menus. Covered porch seating available. n 828-295-7075.

www.storiestreetgrille.com.

The Table at Crestwood Blowing Rock. Our menu is a creative mix of Southern fare with a European touch. Our spectacular views will captivate you while you enjoy terrace or fireside dining. We offer great food, sunsets and an unforgettable experience. Try our Garlic Stuffed Filet, Creek Stone Farms all natural filet of beef stuffed with black garlic, topped with tomato confit and truffle oil, served with mashed potatoes and vegetables or North Carolina Mountain Trout, Carolina Mountain Farm trout encrusted with almond flour, served with balsamic-glazed sweet potatoes & crisp baby spinach. n 828-963-6646. www.crestwoodnc.com

September 2011

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115

Truly one of the most romantic settings in The High Country.

summer dining Valle de Bravo

Prime Rib Special on Tuesdays • Wing Special on Wednesdays • Thursday Night Music Series

&

Table At Crestwood

vidalia

Dawg Star Bar & Grill

7

OPEN NIGHTS A WEEK.

www.crestwoodnc.com | 3236 Shull’s Mill Road | 828.963.6646

Family Style Meals Serving for 50 years, Dan’l Boone Inn offers diners in Boone and the High Country delicious homecooked meals, just like you remember at Grandma’s house.

130 Hardin Street in Boone 264-8657 Please Call for Seasonal Hours www.danlbooneinn.com 116

High Country Magazine

BANNER ELK. The High Country’s newest Mexican restaurant is located at the base of Beech Mountain and features reasonably priced meals with a relaxed atmosphere. If you are on the search for an authentic Mexican menu, this is your spot! Valle de Bravo has all ABC permits. The restaurant doubles as a dance hall on Thursdays after 6:30 with free Beginner Latin dance lessons!

Open seven days a week, this dining gem is certain to become one of your favorites. n 828-898-7771

September 2011

Boone. Vidalia is a casual, upscale restaurant featuring “creative American cuisine.” It offers daily specials, various events, wine tastings and special nights. Vidalia holds all ABC permits and has an extensive, 60+ bottle wine list, craft beers, martinis, whiskeys, scotches and cordials.

Vidalia’s menu changes twice a year to keep it seasonal and practices farmto-table food, using local vendors as much as possible. n 828-263-9176. www.vidaliaofboone.com

Zuzda Banner Elk. Zuzda is a “tapas style” chef-owned restaurant that offers over 125 small plates of all cuisines. The “progressive alternative dining” offers the opportunity to taste and share small portions of food in a random order of presentation. Zuzda offers inside and patio dining and two bars, all of which is nonsmoking.

Zuzda holds all ABC permits, and the wine list is as extensive as the menu, offering many wines by the glass. n 828-898-4166. www.zuzda.com.

September 2011

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ADVER T I S ER S IN D E X

Please patronize the advertisers in High Country Magazine, and when you purchase from them, please be sure to mention that you saw their ad in our pages. Thank them for their support of this publication by giving them yours! Without their support, this magazine would not be possible. To all of our advertisers, a most sincere thank you.

All Area Codes are 828 unless noted.

ADVERTISER

PHONE

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A Cleaner World............................................... 265-1888 �������������������������� 61 Abbey Carpet & Floor . .................................... 265-3622 ��������������������������� 6 Almost Rodeo Drive Banner Elk 898-4553 / Blowing Rock 295-3422 ��� 46 Anna Banana’s................................................. 865-2000 �������������������������� 48 Art Cellar Gallery, The...................................... 898-5175 �������������������������� 62 Bandana’s Bar B Que & Grill............................. 265-2828.......................106 Banner Elk Realty............................................. 898-9756 ������������������������� 21 Bear Creek at Linville........................................ 733-5767 �������������������������� 77 Beech Mountain Resort................................ 800-438-2093 ����������������������� 64 Bella’s Neighborhood Italian Restaurant............ 898-9022 ������������������������ 106 Bella’s Bloomers.............................................. 295-4000.........................60 Best Cellar, The................................................ 295-3466.......................106 Blowing Rock Art & History Museum................ 295-9099 �������������������������� 42 Blowing Rock Estate Jewelry............................ 295-4500...........................99 Blowing Rock Grille.......................................... 295-9474 ������������������������ 105 Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corp.............. 264-8894 �������������������������� 42 Blue Ridge Vision ........................................... 264-2020 ������������������������� 31 Boone Bagelry................................................. 262-5585 ������������������������ 104 Boone Drug Sundries....................................... 264-3766 ������������������������ 104 Boone Endodontics.......................................... 386-1144 ���������������������������� 2 Boone Mall...................................................... 264-7286 �������������������������� 36 Boone Paint & Interiors.................................... 264-9220 �������������������������� 36 Broyhill Home Collections................................ 295-0965 �������������������������� 41 Café Portofino.................................................. 264-7772 ����������������������� 105 Canyons.......................................................... 295-7661 ����������������������� 107 Capone’s......................................................... 265-1886.......................107 Carlton Gallery................................................. 963-4288 �������������������������� 15 Casa Rustica.................................................... 262-5128 ������������������������ 115 Celeste’s ........................................................ 295-3481 �������������������������� 47 Cf Home by Charleston Forge........................... 264-0100...................... . . . 3 4 Cha Da Thai..................................................... 268-0434 ������������������������ 104 Changes Salon................................................. 265-4006 �������������������������� 55 Char................................................................ 266-2179.......................103 Chick-fil-a....................................................... 264-4660 ������������������������ 104 Classic Stoneworks.......................................... 737-0040 �������������������������� 19 Crippen’s Country Inn & Restaurant.................. 295-3487.......................111 Crossroads Pub & Neighborhood Grill.............. 266-9190.......................106 Dande Lion, The............................................... 898-3566 ������������������������ 119 Dan’l Boone Inn............................................... 264-8657.......................116 Deer Valley Luxury Condos............................... 963-0219 �������������������������� 25 DeWoolfson Down ...................................... 800-833-3696 ������������������������ 9 Dianne Davant & Associates . .......................... 898-9887 ��Inside Front Cover Doe Ridge Pottery............................................ 264-1127 �������������������������� 60 Doncaster Outlet.............................................. 295-4200 �������������������������� 52 Echota......................................................... 800-333-7601 ��������� Back Cover Eseeola Lodge, The...................................... 800-742-6717 ��������������������� 103 Finder’s Keepers Antiques................................ 898-1925 �������������������������� 29 Flora Ottimer Banner Elk 898-5112 / Blowing Rock 295-9112 ����� 119 Foggy Rock Eatery & Pub................................. 295-8084.......................113 Foscoe Fishing Company................................. 963-6556.........................81 Fred’s General Mercantile Co........................... 387-4838 ������������������������� 21 118

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September 2011

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Gaines Kiker..................................................... 295-3992 ���������������������������� 4 Gamekeeper..................................................... 963-7400 ����������������������� 113 Gems By Gemini.............................................. 295-7700 ������������������������� 89 Gladiola Girls................................................... 264-4120 �������������������������� 45 Go NC High Country..................................... 855-234-6242 ����������������������� 76 Grandfather Vineyard & Winery......................... 963-2400 �������������������������� 37 Greater Avery Tour de Art ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 21 Green Leaf Services, Inc................................... 737-0308 ���������������������������� 1 Hemlock Inn.................................................... 295-7987...........................4 Haircut 101...................................................... 262-3324 ������������������� 31, 54 Hardin Fine Jewelry.......................................... 898-4653 �������������������������� 62 Hearthstone Tavern & Grille.............................. 898-3461.......................115 High Country Association of Realtors................ 262-5437.........................67 High Country Dentistry..................................... 386-1033.........................15 High Mountain Expeditions........................... 800-262-9036 ��� Inside Back Cover Homestead Inn, The......................................... 295-9559...........................4 Hob Nob Farm Cafe.......................................... 262-5000.......................108 Jo-Lynn Enterprises, Inc................................... 297-2109 �������������������������� 36 Joy Bistro........................................................ 265-0600 ������������������������ 108 Julia Tyson, DDS.............................................. 265-1112.........................55 Keller Williams Realty...................................... 386-1086...................... . . . 7 6 Lavender Fields................................................ 265-1029 �������������������������� 55 Levi’s Outlet Store............................................ 295-9384 �������������������������� 51 Logs America, LLC........................................... 963-7755 ������������������������� 35 Los Arcoiris...................................................... 264-7770 ������������������������ 108 Louisiana Purchase........................................... 963-5087.......................110 Lucky Penny..................................................... 264-0302 �������������������������� 53 Makoto’s Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar... 264-7976 ������������������������ 111 Main Street Antiques & Mercantile................... 898-8645....................... . . . . 5 Manor House Restaurant at Chetola.................. 295-5505.......................109 Maple’s Leather Fine Furniture ........................ 898-6110 ������������������������� 17 Mark Crowell Design........................................ 719.1550 ����������������������������� 2 Mast General Store .....................................866-FOR-MAST ���������������������� 11 Mountain Bagels.............................................. 265-4141 ������������������������ 108 Mountain Construction Enterprises, Inc............ 963-8090 ������������������������� 25 Mountain Dog & Friends.................................. 963-2470 ������������������������ 101 Mountain Jewelers........................................... 733-0186 �������������������������� 20 Mountain Land............................................. 800-849-9225 ����������������������� 66 Mountain Tile................................................... 265-0472 �������������������������� 33 Mountain Top Golf Cars, Inc............................. 963-6775 �������������������������� 96 Mountain Works Draftwood............................... 266-3379 ���������������������������� 2 Mountaineer Landscaping................................ 733-3726 �������������������������� 81 Mountaineer Medical Services PLLC................ 386-1011 �������������������������� 20 Neighborhood Yoga.......................................... 265-0377 �������������������������� 76 One Venue Range / Jim Watts....................... 843-709-4969 ������������������������� 6 Page Dentistry.................................................. 265-1661 �������������������������� 21 Painted Fish Cafe, The...................................... 898-6800.......................104 Papa Joe’s....................................................... 295-3239 ������������������������ 110 Park Place Florist............................................. 295-3626...........................4 Performing Arts Series at Appalachian.......... 800-841-ARTS ����������������������� 83 Pet Supplies Plus ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 3

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Precision Cabinets........................................... 262-5080 ����������������������������6 Primo’s............................................................ 355-9800.......................110 Puerto Nuevo Mexican & Seafood Restaurant.... 898-3332.......................110 Red Onion Café................................................ 264-5470 ������������������������114 ReViVe!............................................................ 295-7676.......................114 Rustic Rooster.................................................. 898-5161 ������������������������119 Scarlett Creek.................................................. 386-1313 ��������������������������99 Seven Devils.................................................... 963-6561 ��������������������������20 Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware......................... 264-8801...........................2 Silk Road, The.................................................. 295-9455...........................4 Speckled Trout Cafe & Oyster Bar..................... 295-9819.......................112 Sports Fanatic.................................................. 264-1141 ��������������������������50 Stick Boy Bread Company................................ 268-9900 ������������������������112 Stone Cavern................................................... 963-8453 ��������������������������43 Stonewalls Restaurant...................................... 898-5550.......................112 Storie Street Grille............................................ 295-7075.......................114 Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest....................... 800-SUGAR-MTN ���������������������91 Sugar Mountain Resort..................................... 898-4521 ��������������������������13 Sugar Top Resort Sales.................................... 898-5226 ��������������������������36 Table at Crestwood........................................... 963-6646.......................116 Tatum Galleries & Interiors............................... 963-6466 �������������������������...7 Tazmaraz Chic Boutique................................... 295-3737 ��������������������������49 Todd Bush Photography................................... 898-8088 ��������������������������91 Todd Rice, Blue Ridge Realty............................ 263-8711.........................20 Valle de Bravo Mexican Grill............................. 898-7771 ������������������������116 Vidalia Restaurant & Wine Bar.......................... 263-9176.......................112 Watauga Insurance Agency, Inc........................ 264-8291 �������������������������96 Watauga Medical Center..............................www.apprhs.org ������������������������6 Zuzda............................................................... 898-4166 �����������������.......109

Introducing

JOOLZ

by The Dande Lion

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September 2011

High Country Magazine

119

Parting Shot...

Todd Bush

Lonnie Webster By

Banner Elk’s New School

Goodbye Summer, Hello New School

S

tudents say goodbye to summer and hello to a new school year—and a new school building—at Banner Elk Elementary School this month. On Sunday, August 7, Avery County Schools opened the doors and welcomed the public to an open house at the brand new, 47,000-square-foot Banner Elk School. Pictured in this photograph

by Todd Bush—himself a Banner Elk resident—are school officials and, at far right, artist Pam Brewer, who created the colorful mosaic near the building’s entrance with the help of Banner Elk students.

Pam’s military family of five siblings moved every year of her life until her parents retired to the mountains of North Carolina, according to her artist statement. “Within two years of settling in Banner Elk my father passed away, permanently 120

High Country Magazine

etching the concepts that life is everchanging and that security must be derived from within,” she wrote.

After working in interior design, architecture, real estate and development and design and construction, Brewer answered the call back to the mountains of North Carolina in 1993. Her work includes mosaics, assemblages and found objects and clay. Myth, ancient cultures and the perfection and order of nature are her influences.

The mosaic was constructed from lots of clay pieces created by students at the old Banner Elk School in the last two weeks of the 2010-11 aca-

September 2011

demic year.

The new school replaces the stone structure that was completed in 1939 as part of a Work Projects Administration venture. Numerous heating and plumbing issues, as well as the presence of asbestos, made remodeling cost-prohibitive.

The new school incorporates green features, new technology, spacious classrooms and enhanced safety features.

The space in the new building, which cost $9.4 million including the building, landscaping and paving, will be adequate for 250 students.

w

Rafting Expeditions Caving New River Tubing

Whitewater

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Fun Happens September 2011

High Country Magazine

C

View of Grandfather Mountain from Chalakee

You’ve dreamed about a place of your own in the High Country.

But why? Because you want the best view ever of Grandfather Mountain? An outdoor kitchen? Nine-foot ceilings and resortstyle amenities? Or is it because you want to make real, lasting memories with the ones you love? Chalakee is appropriately priced for today’s market with condominiums and townhomes from $199,900 to $599,900. See it for yourself. And you’ll understand that opportunity is not just about the time in the market. It’s about the time in your life.

Call 800.333.7601 to arrange a visit.

C HALAKEE The BesT e choTa YeT

D

Visit one of our sales offices located at Hwy 105 S, the entrance to Echota at 133 Echota Parkway, Boone, NC or 1107 Main St, Suite C, Blowing Rock, NC. Visit www.EchotaNC.com for more information.

High Country Magazine

September 2011