HighVista Journal Winter 2013-2014

HIGH VISTAS Journal

Fall/Winter 2013-2014

Fall/Winter 2013-2014 A publication by FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway dedicated to increasing environmental education, interpretation and awareness of the Blue Ridge Parkway and its surrounding corridor.

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features 7 Naturistic Music Of The Parkway Listen to the delightful symphony of nature.

By Ann and Rob Simpson

9 The Next Generation of Parkway Stewards As years pass, the Parkway is in need of a new generation of stewards.

By Fernando Gracia

11 Model A’s Along The Parkway

Follow nearly 200 Model A Fords during a 5 day journey.

By Alex Janke

12 A Favorite Drive Through A Very Special Place The Blue Ridge National Heritage and its impact on the Parkway.

By Jill Jones

14 Holiday Gift Ideas

Great gift ideas for the holidays that also help the Parkway.

17 New FRIENDS Program: Adopt-A-Cemetery

Be part of FRIENDSí new program to preserve historic cemeteries.

By Edward Gracia

19 Overmountain Victory Celebration

A revolutionary story of the Overmountain Men of 1780.

19 FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway is celebrating its 25th Anniversary! Thank you, our members, for your years of commitment and loyalty to our organization and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

FRIENDS BOARD TRUSTEE BOARD

Mark Dempsey, Palmer L. Bland, Jr., William F. Mason, Jr., Esquire, Nye Simmons, M.D. BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ken Randolph, President, David Poteet, Vice President, Lynn Davis, Secretary, J. Richard Wells, Treasurer, William Brenton, Jr., CFP, Dan Chitwood, Kyle Edgell, Mary Jane Ferguson, Denise Koff, Ben Geer Keys, Jonathan R. Ireland BOARD EMERITUS

Mary Guynn, Dick Patterson, M.D., J. Richard Wells ADVISORY BOARD

Marcia and Dave Barstow, Pat and Chuck Blackley, George Blanar, Ph.D., Mr. Rupert Cutler, Ph.D., David Harrison, George Humphries, Dr. Harley Jolley, Fredrick Kubik, Cara Ellen Modisett, Dick Patterson, M.D., Jamie Prince, Marie Tambellini

FRIENDS STAFF OFFICE STAFF

Susan J. Mills, Ph.D., Executive Director, Fernando Gracia, Director of Programs & Community Outreach, Mary Ellen Belcher, VIP Programs, Jamey Miller, Marketing Director, Stacey Woods, Director of Membership Services & Events, Edward Gracia, Membership Services & Publishing Assistant VOLUNTEER STAFF

Virginia Ehrich & Pauline O’Dell, Membership, Kathy Van Duzer, Keith Montree, Jr., Richard Hoffman & Erin Contour, Office Assistants

HIGH VISTAS STAFF

Susan J. Mills, Ph.D., Journal Chief Edward Gracia, High Vistas Director Jamey Miller, Graphic Designer Jill Darlington-Smith, Electronic Designer Stacey Woods, Ad Sales The views expressed here are solely those of the authors and do not in any way represent the views of the National Park Service or FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

By Randall Jones

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Congratulations From The Virginia & North Carolina Governors

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For Sale Mabry Mill Poster

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ove the cover on this issue of High Vistas?

It’s the second in a series of posters featuring the Blue Ridge Parkway.

This poster series is produced

by Lantern Press and 5% of the proceeds of the poster sales help support the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Order your poster from the FRIENDS website at www.FriendsBRP.org or scan the QR code!

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n behalf of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am pleased to congratulate FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway on the occasion of your 25th anniversary of continued commitment to

community service.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of most unique resources, contributing to Virginia’s scenic beauty, economic vitality, and quality of life. I commend you for your hard work and dedication to improving the lives of citizens throughout our Commonwealth.

Virginians continue to be inspired by your commitment and enthusiasm to promote the historic and recreational value of this unique national treasure.

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ongratulations to the FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway on their 25th Anniversary. Western North Carolina has some of the most beautiful scenery in our state and nation and unlimited recreational opportunities.

I am thankful that we have the Blue Ridge Parkway coming right through our great state and connecting us to other scenic areas of our country.

~ Governor Pat McCrory

~ Governor Robert F. McDonnell

A Message From The Blue Ridge Parkway Deputy Superintendent

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his has been an interesting year for the Blue Ridge Parkway and the National Park Service. Our fundamental mission “to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations” has been put to the test. Reduced budgets caused reduced staffing and facility closures making our partnerships more important than ever if we are to fulfill this mission.

Volunteer service and financial contributions from FRIENDS like you are at work daily along all 469-miles of the Parkway.

We depend on this level of support now, more than ever. As FRIENDS celebrates its 25th anniversary, and the National Park Service approaches its 100th anniversary in 2016, we all must renew our commitment to the protection of this vital, yet vulnerable, resource. Thank you for being a FRIEND of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

FRIENDS would like to thank Monika Mayr for her service as interim Superintendent. Mayr was joined in September by the newly appointed Superintendent Mark Woods; we wish Monika the best as she continues as the Blue Ridge Parkway Deputy Superintendent.

www.FriendsBRP.org 3

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Message From…

FRIENDS’ President

Parkway Superintendent

On behalf of FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s members, board and staff, we welcome Superintendent Mark Woods to the Blue Ridge Parkway. FRIENDS is positioned to assist the Blue Ridge Parkway in these challenging times.

The sequestration budget cuts, which forced all national parks to cut five percent from their budgets last March and this summer’s heavy rains have forced the indefinite Parkway closure of a 21-mile section in North Carolina, from Milepost 376 to Milepost 355. (The Parkway has since built a temporary by-pass to reopen this section.) These challenges have a negative impact on our beloved Blue Ridge Parkway. FRIENDS is here to be part of the solution through additional funding and over 1.5 million dollars of volunteer service annually.

Twenty-five years ago, a group of Parkway lovers created FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Today, more than ever, the Parkway needs FRIENDS. We can no longer assume that there is enough money in the Federal budget to maintain and protect this ecologically-rich park. In the case of parks like Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, there’s one way in and one way out. These National Parks can charge entry fees.

But The Blue Ridge Parkway, which connects these two great national parks, intersects countless state and county roads as it winds 469 miles across the spine of the Appalachian Mountains.

So, how can you help the Blue Ridge Parkway? The easiest way is to encourage your friends, family and businesses to become a member of FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the only not-for-profit organization solely devoted to preserving and protecting the Parkway through education and volunteerism. For every dollar contributed, we are able to generate $4 in volunteer time restoring viewsheds, painting mileposts and cleaning and repairing campsites, trails and scenic overlooks.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a place that I’ve loved and admired for many years. The Parkway represents the finest that America has to offer, some of the most scenic vistas in the world, unparalleled beauty, a rich mosaic of natural and cultural resources and endless opportunities for the public to enjoy the splendor along the 469 miles. It offers something new for each generation.

I am excited to be joining each of you, the many partners and volunteers who help us carry out the mission of the National Park Service. The Parkway is an incredible resource and the work we carry out each day is truly a high calling which has direct impact on the resource values, the public’s experience, and the support that is so crucial in carrying out our mission.

As we approach the 100th Anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016, we are all aware of the tremendous responsibilities and challenges the Parkway faces. Private sector support for America’s national parks is a tradition as old as the park’s themselves. However, now more than ever there is an on-going need to build strong public support, which includes an awareness of park issues, conservation values, and a strong sense of stewardship and involvement. Please know that I’ll be leaning heavily on input from park staff, supporters, communities and partner groups, so that I can understand these critical issues and make the sound and responsible decisions necessary to protect this vital resource for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

Establishment of parks is not enough, what is needed are more people who will take the time to stay informed about the important issues facing our national parks. The FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway is a critical partner in preserving this national treasure for generations to come. Thank you for your support!

by Mark H. Woods

by Ken Randolph

Mark H. Woods

Ken Randolph

Building Partnerships www.FriendsBRP.org 5

Experience the Simple Life Arts and Crafts, Corn Mazes, Farmers Markets, Festivals, Music Jams, Museums, Wineries. Fishing, Kayaking, Hiking, Biking. Golfing, Hunting, Shopping, Dining, and more.

The activities are endless and the experiences are priceless.

Visit us and Experience the Simple Life of Patrick County, VA.

www.visitpatrickcounty.org

TH A N KS TO OU R IN-K IND CONTR IBUTORS We wish to thank the following for their important in-kind contributions:

Hampton Inn Janet Moore & Jeff Wilson Pepsi The Greenbrier Wintergreen Resort & Club Primland Sam’s Club

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All Star Impressions BEST Printing Blue Ridge Beverage Dominion Images Kroger Bojangles’ Woodmen of the World

McAlister’s Deli Ballyhack Frank’s Pizza Fresh Market Amelia Leal-Gracia Roanoke Bagel Tanya Florek-Rydell

If your name did not appear on the list and you made a contribution between April 2013 - September 2013, please contact us at 540.772.2992.

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Naturistic Music Of The Parkway

by Ann and Rob Simpson

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ith the windows down, you can feel the cool crisp autumn air filling your car with the pleasant scent of crushed dried leaves and wood smoke from evening campfires. A fall drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a great way to enjoy the 469-mile long road that winds through the ancient mountains of the Appalachians and passes stunning views of rich Eastern forests and cool mountain streams that flow into the valleys below.

Bordered to the north by Shenandoah National Park and to the south by Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a destination for those seeking the peace and beauty that these eastern mountains offer. The long rays of the autumn sun light up the changing leaves into an artist’s palette of reds, oranges, yellows and browns that beckons visitors from around the world to see the colorful show.

In the fall, cool nights are followed by warm days perfect for a leisurely stroll or brisk hike on one of the many Parkway trails. The music of nature can be heard as you step into rich forests serenaded by the melody of birds, the rustle of squirrels gathering nuts for the winter and the

lulling murmur of mountain streams.

Whitetail bucks polish their antlers on tree trunks as they prepare for the ritual autumn rut when they spar with rival bucks to win top breeding rights. Deer and other wildlife such as wild turkeys can be seen in early mornings or late evenings gleaning nutritious seeds from the tall golden grasses that have dried throughout the summer heat. As they make their journey back to warmer climates, colorful migrant songbirds such as black-throated green and chestnut-sided warblers fatten up on the insects in the treetops and broad-winged hawks soar in silent tornado-like swirls called “kettles” over mountain passes such as those at Harvey’s Knob at Milepost 94.5 and Rockfish Gap at Milepost 0.

To get a better understanding of the formation and geology of the Appalachians, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals at Milepost 331 near Spruce Pine offers an educational display of the area’s rocks and minerals.

A fascinating look into Appalachian culture and mountain life can be seen at Humpback Rocks at Milepost 5.8 and at Milepost 176.1, Mabry Mill visitors can see how early settlers processed the grain they grew. The history of Appalachian music is creatively displayed at the Blue

Ridge Music Center at Milepost 213.9 where during the warmer months folk and bluegrass concerts entertain music lovers of all ages. At Milepost 294.1 the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and at Milepost 382 the Folk Art Center offer traditional crafts and gifts.

Although the Parkway is open daily most of the visitor services are only open from mid-May to early November. With typically the most snowfall in January and February - some sections of the Parkway may close in winter. You can check road closures at the park information line at (828)298-0398 or on the park website at www.nps.gov/blri. Winter is a peacefully quite time to visit the area and even if the Parkway happens to be closed many of the surrounding communities offer year round lodging options. Winter play areas just off the Parkway include Sugar Mountain near Linville, NC at Milepost 305.1 and Wintergreen Resort at Milepost 13.5. A visit to the Parkway during fall and winter is a great time to experience the stories and songs that these ancient mountains have to tell.

Share your experiences with us at Staff@FriendsBRP.org.

Preserving Parkway Resources www.FriendsBRP.org 7

Membership Survey

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Please help FRIENDS by completing the membership survey below. Return the survey using the enclosed envelope, or simply mail it to our address listed below. We thank you for your feedback and loyal support.

Do you travel along the Parkway? n Yes n No 6. How often would you like High Vistas n 1 n2 to be published per year? n 4 n6 a. How many visits during the year? n 1 n 2-5

n 6-10 n 11+ 7. Have you ever clipped or copied items b. Do you share High Vistas Journal n Yes n No from High Vistas? n Yes n No with others?

8. What types of articles would you like to see in High Do you leave High Vistas in a public place Vistas? ______________________________________________ (i.e. doctor’s office) for others to enjoy? n Yes n No 9. Please rate the quality of High Vistas from 1 - 10 ___ Do you notice the Advertisements in (10 being the highest) High Vistas? n Yes n No 10. How much of a factor was the High Vistas Journal in your a. If yes, have you visited a business after decision to join FRIENDS? seeing it advertised in High Vistas? n Yes n No n Not at all n Somewhat n Neutral Do you like High Vistas in our new iPad n Somewhat strong n Very strong App electronic format? n Yes n No 11. Have you volunteered on the Parkway after reading about If Yes, would you also like: the different volunteer opportunities? n Yes n No n A website link to the High Vistas Electronic Magazine 12. Now many years have you been a FRIENDS member? n Webpage in an email and a hard copy, or __ Years n Male or n Female n Only a website link (no hard copy mailed) 13. What is your age range: n 18-30 n 31-40 n 41-50 Select the High Vistas articles you like most?

n 51-60 n 61+ n Parkway History/Culture n Youth Programs 14. Your Comments - Let us know what you like about n Letters from Members/Volunteers n Volunteer Projects FRIENDS. Use a separate sheet for comments. n Season Specific Articles n Kids’ Activities n Hiking/Walking Trips n Birds/Wildlife/Fauna Please mail, email or submit surveys back to us. Use your High Vistas Magazine envelope or mail to PO Box 20986 Roanoke, VA 24018. n Alternative Break Program n Tree plantings Call us with any questions at 1.800.228.7275. Check out our website at www.FriendsBRP.org.

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The Next Generation Of Parkway Stewards

by Fernando Gracia & Leesa Brandon

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway, through the Broyhill Family Foundation, funded Claree James’ summer-intern position at the National Park Service’s Blue Ridge Parkway headquarters. James, a college student from Arkansas, assisted with Blue Ridge Parkway social media optimization.

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nternships play an important role in developing a new generation of stewards. Immersing a college student in the National Park Service (NPS) culture provides a fresh perspective on the mission of the NPS, as well as training in the discipline in which the student is involved. Knowing what resonates with young adults is key to effectively communicate with and cultivate a second-century work force for the NPS. Claree James was hired to work at the Parkway as a digital media intern for a ten-week internship during the summer of 2013 through FRIENDS and the Broyhill Family Foundation.

Claree’s placement came through the NPS Academy, a program organized by the Student Conservation Association.

Claree’s workplan included the park’s website, the NPS Content Management System,

developing a social media presence for the park on Facebook and Twitter and researching long-term digital interpretation strategies. Claree’s contribution to the park in this role exceeded all expectations. The NPS is increasingly paying attention to its virtual visitors, and thanks to this summer’s FRIENDS intern, the Parkway is well placed to move forward in this digital environment.

The National Park Service will mark its centennial anniversary in 2016, and as we look back on the past 100 years, it is not unreasonable to think about the next 100, 200 or 500 years. What sort of programs will our parks, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, continue to offer? Which ones will cease to exist?

Where will Americans connect with their heritage? Who will carry on as stewards of our parks?

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway has answered the call to introduce youth of all backgrounds not just to the Blue Ridge Parkway, but to the outdoors in general. FRIENDS is engaging and educating the next generation of stewards about their parks and the role they play in preserving the cultural and natural heritage through programs like the Future Stewards Program. Students from all over the country and abroad are introduced to our parks through partnerships FRIENDS has created with colleges, universities and organizations like the Student Conservation Association (SCA) and the National Park Service Academy.

Claree James, a native of Arkansas, spent much of her time

researching, developing and implementing a social media strategy that would target the millions of individuals who are connecting and searching for information about the Blue Ridge Parkway through the Internet and social media.

“Youth today do not wake up and open the newspaper to find information,” said Claree, “Instead, they check their mobile devices.” Claree was able to reach and inform thousands of individuals, many of them youth, who want to learn more about the Parkway’s history, current events and opportunities through the Parkway’s website and social media platforms.

Opportunities to connect today’s diverse youth to the Blue Ridge Parkway aren’t lacking, though sometimes the funding to support these positions are. For college students like Claree who are accepted into the SCA’s summer internships at our nation’s parks, FRIENDS provided funding for her housing as well as a small stipend.

Support FRIENDS’ Future Stewards program by calling 800.228.PARK(7275) or donating online at www.FriendsBRP.org.

www.FriendsBRP.org 9

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540-961-0505 www.BeliveauEstate.com

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Ford Model A’s Cruise The Parkway Almost all the cars completed the journey, ending in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers one of the finest touring roads in the world. The Parkway is packed with natural and cultural history, scenic beauty and just good driving opportunities. If you have not traveled it, you need to plan the 469 mile trip. It is a once in a lifetime experience.

by Alex Janke

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he Model A Ford Club of America (MAFCA) is the largest automobile club in the world devoted to a single automobile in this case, the Model A Ford produced from 1928 through 1931. A significant part of the hobby is driving these great, old cars. They are safe at highway speeds of about 55 miles an hour and very reliable.

MAFCA conducts a National Tour every odd numbered year. We look for great driving roads across America and the Blue Ridge Parkway was an ideal choice for 2013. With a 45 mph speed limit, incredible scenery and thousands of things to see, the Parkway provided a perfect tour.

Almost 200 Model A’s undertook the five day drive from Charlottesville, Virginia to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

We spent the day before the tour at Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s home, and the following morning hit the road.

It was raining fairly heavily, but the little cars braved the route including those in open cars without side curtains. One family in a four door phaeton put on full rain gear and took off. They had a fantastic time and even stayed pretty dry, thanks to their outfits.

After a couple of rainy days the weather cleared and everyone forgot about the wet and just enjoyed the ride.

As the Parkway winds up and down the mountains the seasons would change.

At higher elevations the trees

Please send FRIENDS an Article!

were not even in bud with occasional patches of snow along the road, yet as we descended they went into bud, then leaf, then flower and finally into full glory. The wild flowers slowly showed themselves with each elevation change.

The Trilliums were particularly spectacular with huge patches of bright white flowers along the forest floor.

Stops included the National D-Day Memorial, the Biltmore Estate, Grandfather Mountain and Mabry Mill. The wonderful turn-outs on both sides of the Parkway offered sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley and numerous other valleys.

Every stop was a photo opportunity.

FRIENDS is looking for articles with original slants and perspectives. We want you to tell us about your Blue Ridge Parkway Experiences: a special spot less known on the Parkway, your favorite place to visit or your recent trip on the road. Share with us a cultural or historical Parkway story or tell us about your recent volunteer project on the Parkway! Specific examples, descriptive details and quotes are great to include.

FRIENDS reserves all rights to submissions. Authors of articles that are published will receive a free oneyear membership to FRIENDS and a special FRIENDS gift. Please provide high resolution photos with your article of 200 to 500 words.

Please submit your articles and photos to staff@friendsbrp.org or PO Box 20986, Roanoke, VA 24018.

Your Experiences www.FriendsBRP.org 11

Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

A Favorite Drive Through A Very Special Place

by Jill Jones

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s you journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you are likely aware that your are traveling “America’s Favorite Drive.” In fact, the Parkway is such a favorite that it is the most visited unit of the National Park Service, with more than 16 million visitors each year.

But did you know that you are also traveling through one of the very special regions in our country – The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area?

A National Heritage Area is a place so special that it is recognized and honored by Congress with this designation

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because of its importance to the history, heritage and culture of our nation. Presently, there are only 49 NHA’s in the country.

The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area comprises the 25 western-most counties in North Carolina; 11,000 square miles of the state’s mountains and foothills. Here you will not only discover the breathtaking beauty of these ancient Blue Ridge Mountains, but also the rich cultural heritage that has grown up among them.

These mountains have been home to the Cherokee Indians for more than 10,000 years. Immigrant settlers passed through

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the gaps and valleys moving westward, bringing with them their musical, agricultural, and craft traditions, which over time have melted into the unique culture of Southern Appalachia.

It is these five heritage legacies – natural, Cherokee, craft, music, and agriculture – that Congress recognized as distinct in our nation in awarding the region 23 the designation of National Heritage Area.

The 259 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina serve as something of 19 the “Main Street” through the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, offering travelers the opportunity Sugarloaf Mountainto view and experience much of the natural heritage and scenic 4579ft 26 beauty of the mountains and foothills of North Carolina.

But there is much more to experience Mars Hill and enjoy in the region. At the south end of the Parkway, for example, you can discover the story of the Cherokee at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and 213 experience their lifestyle in the living 8 U history Oconoluftee Village in Cherokee.

N L Some of the finest A crafts in the country can be found onWthe Parkway at the Folk Art Center in Asheville and the Moses Rich ountain Cone Manor near Blowing Rock and in 3670ft the many galleries throughout the region.

25 Getting off the Parkway and 70 into the many quaint mountain towns and Freyou villages, nchwill discover opportunities Broblend ad ofRfiddle, banjo, to hear the unique i ve mandolin and other typical instruments r Hot Springs in old time and bluegrass performances and informal jam sessions, and maybe even have the chance to kick up your heels to the beat of mountain music.

Fresh produce, dairy, and meat products move directly from local farms to area grocery stores, tailgate markets, and restauluff 63 Mountainrants, where visitors can enjoy the finest and freshest of food, prepared simply or elegantly, 209 but never better.

So as you travel “America’s Favorite Drive,” also know that you are in one of America’s special places – the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area.

PISGAH Visit www.blueridgeheritage.com for in-depth information on the heritage, culture, history, music, NEW F O U N Devents, small towns, craft, Cherokees, agriculture, M O U N TA I N and more. It’s your “go-to” place to enrich your visit NATIONAL to the region.

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Dear Friends, As we come to the end of another year, we want to thank those who have contributed to the preservation of the Blue Ridge Parkway through financial donations, memberships and volunteer service.

This holiday season is the perfect time to show how much you care for the Blue Ridge Parkway and to share your passion with someone special. Please consider giving the gift of a FRIENDS membership!

A card will be sent to the recipient recognizing your gift along with a New Member packet.

Please fill out the form on page 15 and send it to our office along with the name and address of the person who is to receive your gift. You may also include a personalized message to go along with the card.

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway thanks you for your generosity. We look forward to a busy and productive new year with all of our members and volunteers.

Nature Guide To The Blue Ridge Parkway This easy to use pocket-size field guide will help visitors identify some of the most common plants, animals, and natural features of the parkway. Technical terms have been kept to a minimum and a color picture accompanies the descriptions. Perfectly sized to fit easily into a daypack, this compact field guide is packed with interesting information about each organism. This includes natural history notes, traditional knowledge about medical and other uses of plants, and other historical remarks.

$14.95

FRIENDS 25th Anniversary Extra Large Picnic Basket You’ll love this beautifully crafted, made in the U.S.A., extra large Parkway Picnic Basket. This spacious picnic basket is sure to fit a meal for the whole family! Hand crafted in tan, dark brown, rust and black, this basket has a plastic protector and comes with a brass tag that commemorates the 25th Anniversary of the FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge parkway.

$86.00

FRIENDS 25th Anniversary Friendship Basket Our most popular basket, the 25th Anniversary Friendship basket, is perfect for serving chips and pretzels with a touch of the parkway. Hand crafted in the U.S.A., this tan, dark brown and teal basket has a plastic protector, a brown fabric lining and comes with a brass tag that commemorates the 25th Anniversary of the FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge parkway. As a limited edition basket, get it before we run out!

$46.00

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FRIENDS Fleece Jacket

FRIENDS Fleece Vest

Keep warm this winter with our FRIENDS logo embroidered fleece jacket. Comes in black only. Size range from Small to Extra Large.

Our comfortable FRIENDS logo embroidered fleece vest is great for hikes in the fall and spring. Comes in gray only. Size range from Small to 3XL. (Medium not available)

$39.95

$19.95

Blue Ridge Parkway Celebration Join photographer Nye Simmons on a visual journey through the seasons along the Parkway’s 469 miles accompanied by essays and poems from 47 writers expressing unequaled passion inspired by our favorite mountain drive. This collaboration celebrates 25 years of service by FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

$47.95

2014 Parkway Calendar From the lofty heights of the Pisgah Ridge, past the peaceful James River, to the borders of Shenandoah National Park, follow photographer Nye Simmons on a journey through the seasons along the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway.

$13.95

Grover Groundhog Plush Toy A perfect gift for that little FRIENDS fan! This adorable Grover plush toy is the perfect companion during your journeys along the Parkway!

$8.00

Merchandise Order:

Qty. Product

____ Guide to the Blue Ridge Parkway - $14.95 ___ 25th Anniversary Extra Large Picnic Basket - $86 ____ 25th Anniversary Friendship Basket - $46 ____ Blue Ridge Parkway Celebration Book - $47.95 S

M n L n XL

___ FRIENDS Fleece Vest - $19.95 n S n L n XL n 2XL n 3XL ORDER TOTAL

$0.00 - $25.00 $25.01 - $50.00 $50.01 - $75.00 $75.01 - 100.00 $100.01 - UP

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____ 2014 Scenic Parkway Calendar - $13.95 ____ FRIENDS Fleece Jacket - $39.95

Give The Gift Of Membership

n I have enclosed a check payment for __________________________ to give the gift of membership for n $30 Individual or n $50 Family.

State _______ Zip____________ Phone _________________________ Email _______________________________________________________ Message from you _____________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________

Make checks payable to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Donations of $250 or more will be listed in High Vistas annually.

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www.FriendsBRP.org 15

Join Or Start A Chapter Today!

F

FRIENDS Chapters Peaks of Otter Chapter, MP 50-100 Fernando Gracia 540.772.2992 PeaksOtter@FriendsBRP.org

Roanoke Chapter, MP 100-150 Mary Ellen Belcher 540.772.2992 Roanoke@FriendsBRP.org

Rocky Knob Chapter, MP 150-200 Lisal and Matthew Roberts 540.745.2541 RockyKnob@FriendsBRP.org

Fisher Peak Chapter, MP 200-217.5 Tony Hatcher & Lewis Shropshire 276.236.6979 FisherPeak@FriendsBRP.org

Northern Highlands Chapter, MP 217.5-275 Joyce Speas 336.601.6118 NorthernHighlands@FriendsBRP.org

Appalachian State Univ. Chapter Heather Paige Preston 828.262.2449 ASU@FriendsBRP.org

Asheville Chapter, MP 364-415 Dan Wells 828.668.7838 Asheville@FriendsBRP.org

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RIENDS Chapters are the backbone of FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Their work is critical to fulfilling our mission.

Completed work by FRIENDS Chapters on the Parkway includes the cleaning and re-painting of mileposts and Parkway signs, trail maintenance, tent site repair at Pisgah Campground, and cataloging the many Parkway cemeteries.

If you are interested in preserving and promoting the Blue Ridge Parkway through community-based volunteer projects and activities, please join a FRIENDS chapter and help engage your community in protecting this national treasure. Start a chapter in your area if one does not exist.

FRIENDS Chapters are the backbone of FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Their work is critical to fulfilling our mission.

Shortly after news broke about the now-famous crack in the road, FRIENDS’ Asheville Chapter and volunteers aided with on-site maintenance to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Volunteers helped clear clogged ditches and culverts along the damaged stretch just north of Asheville with hopes that the measure would prevent future drainage problems and costly repairs. This group of volunteers, headed by Asheville Chapter Chair, Dan Wells, contributed valuable service to the reparation of the scenic highway.

Please consider supporting FRIENDS work and chapters by making a donation today! Return the enclosed envelope.

n Yes, I want to preserve the Blue Ridge Parkway for future generations! Join or renew by my check or credit card below or go online to FriendsBRP.org and click JOIN - Use ìHigh Vistasî in Promo Code field.

I will support FRIENDS' work with my donation of: n $25 - $49 n $50 - $99 n $100 - $499 n $500 - $999 n $1000+ Other $_____________

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Make checks payable to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Donations of $250 or more will be listed in High Vistas annually.

Fa l l / Wi n t e r 2 0 1 3

New FRIENDS Program: Adopt-A-Cemetery

by Edward Gracia

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he National Park Service (NPS) Blue Ridge Parkway requested that FRIENDS provide funding and volunteer assistance with maintaining approximately 40 of the 70 historic cemeteries located within the Park. Funds from FRIENDS and the NPS support the work and purchase the equipment needed to care for the cemetery, such as weed-eaters and tree loppers. Half of the cemeteries are located in the Plateau District and several are in the Ridge and Highlands Districts. No cemeteries are south of Grandfather Mountain.

Students from Notre Dame University participated in a pilot for the program under the leadership of the FRIENDS Fisher Peak Chapter. The Fisher Peak Chapter developed a basic Procedure Manual in cooperation with the NPS. The National Park Service and FRIENDS plan to use this program as an initiative to further research and document history along the Blue Ridge Parkway while engaging community volunteers in accomplishing this new and exciting project!

To support this project and FRIENDS’ work, please visit our Preservation and Restoration of Assets page

www.FriendsBRP.org 17

Follow FRIENDS

Hike 15 W. Washington St. Downtown Lexington Lexington, VA 540-464-4453

Camp

Travel

4822J Valley View Blvd. 301 Market Street Downtown Roanoke Valley View Mall Roanoke, VA Roanoke, VA 540-777-2727 540-777-0990

River Walk Cabins Daily - Weekly Rentals

336-312-1421 (c) 276-952-2648 (o) 4444 Jeb Stuart Hwy Meadows of Dan, VA 24120

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Visit meadowsofdanriverwalkcabins.com River Walk Cabins Fa l l / Wi n t e r

2013

Community Engagement

by Randall Jones

Overmountain Victory Celebration

Introduction Fall 1780. Leaving their wives and families, men from the mountains of Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina march in pursuit of Major Patrick Ferguson and his British army. The mountain mists barely allow them to see the Tricorn hat of the man ahead. Only a mile or so more to the Gap where they can stop at the Orchard for apples to pack in their knapsacks for the long march. Farther down the trail other units from Surry and Wilkes will join them on the march. These men will become known as the Overmountain Men. They will continue the pursuit and at Kings Mountain, South Carolina, will not only kill Ferguson, but also capture his entire army. Thomas Jefferson said it was the turning point of the American Revolution.

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ach fall along the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap near Spruce Pine, NC, volunteers turn back time and immerse visiting students in an exciting episode from the American Revolution. The story of the Overmountain Men of 1780 and the patriot victory at Kings Mountain is told along the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. It crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 331.

That is the site of the Museum of North Carolina Minerals, which hosts the Overmountain Victory Celebration, a three-day educational event. Local students arrive by the busload from area schools. And, along with National Park

Service Rangers, all the presenters are volunteers.

Men and women in period dress demonstrate their colonial and frontier craft skills, a spectacle that transports onlookers back in time and helps them learn about the roots of America’s history and heritage. “This is so neat,” one boy exclaimed as he learned about the items these militiamen carried with them to start fires and to load their rifles. “I really enjoyed throwing the tomahawk,” one young girl declared. “It’s harder than it looks.” “I learned that it took a really long time to weave enough cloth to make a shirt,” another student said after learning about carding, spinning, and weaving flax and wool. Other volunteers taught candle-making and soap-making; others told the story of what these American Patriot militiamen did on their way to Kings Mountain. In every case, the students were wide-eyed and eager to learn more.

“This is a great program,” said Jonathan Bennett, a Ranger for the National Park Service. “The teachers and the students really value this. And it only happens because we have volunteers; they are wonderful and we appreciate them so much.”

Overmountain Victory Celebration is held in the middle of September each year, but visitors can explore the story

of these overmountain patriot heroes themselves by visiting sites along the entire Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. A new book, A Guide to the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, is available at the bookstore at the Museum for North Carolina Minerals at BRP Milepost 331 and at other Eastern National bookstores along the 330-mile trail. Visit www.nps.gov/ ovvi to learn more about the Trail.

In Memory of a Parkway Treasure – Frances Margaret O’Hair Shumate Fran Shumate, age 68, of North Wilkesboro, died October 30, 2012. Fran volunteered on the Blue Ridge Parkway for 22 years giving demonstrations in spinning and weaving wool at Mabry Mill and at the Overmountain Victory Celebration in Spruce Pine. In 2010, Fran was selected as the Blue Ridge Parkway Volunteer of the Year.

We will greatly miss her warm laugh and sparkling personality. Fran was indeed a true Parkway friend.

www.FriendsBRP.org 19

Renew You r Membersh o t e ip ?

Ti m Give Us A Call!

800.228.7275 PO Box 20986 Roanoke, VA 24018 800.228.PARK (7275) 540.772.2992 www.FriendsBRP.org

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Ways Of Giving

he future of FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway depends upon YOU, our members. The degree of foresight and generosity of our members will affect the future of the Blue Ridge Parkway for generations to come. There are many ways you can give to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway: • Give gift memberships to family and friends for holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and honorariums • Give gifts of cash or marketable securities • Give a gift of real estate • Remember FRIENDS in your Will It’s simple. Add only one of the following sentences to your Will or do so by using a codicil to your existing Will: 1. I hereby give ___% of my residuary estate to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, whose current principle business address for identification purposes is PO Box 20986, Roanoke, Virginia 24018, to be used at its sole discretion for its charitable purposes.

2. I hereby bequeath $___cash, to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, whose current principle business address for identification purposes is PO Box 20986, Roanoke, Virginia 24018, to be used at its sole discretion for its charitable purposes.

3. I hereby devise the following property to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, whose current principle business address for identification purposes is PO Box 20986, Roanoke, Virginia 24018, to be used at its sole discretion for its charitable purposes [legal description of property, whether real property or personal property]. Please note that FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway does not give legal advice nor does it in any way practice law.

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, organized and existing under the laws of the State of North Carolina and the Commonwealth of Virginia, whose current principle business address for identification purposes is PO Box 20986, Roanoke, Virginia 24018. Tax ID#:58-1854404. FRIENDS would like to keep a record of your foresight and generosity on file. Please contact us at 800.228.PARK (7275), by mail to FRIENDS, P O Box 20986, Roanoke, VA 24018 or by email, staff@FriendsBRP.org.