Mountain Escapes December 2019

FREE

DECEMBER 2019

COVERING THE MOUNTAIN TOWNS OF EAST TN, SOUTHWEST VA, & WESTERN NC,

Meet Mr. & Mrs. Claus onboard Santa’s Hiwassee Holiday Train

Bulbs Shrubs & Trees For Winter Interest & Spring Color!

Christmas Cactus Aryallis Paper Whites Poinsettia’s & Other Holiday Plants Make Great Gifts

FOR:

Corporate Non-Profits Churches Civic Groups And For Your Home!

Please join us for a magical evening of wine, cheese, music and beautiful blooming flowers that will surely melt away any sign of the winter blues.

Friday, February 7th from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, $45 pp To register, Call 865-637-7475 or visit our website: www.knoxrmhc.org This is a popular event so make your reservations early!!

Casual dress encouraged Take some springtime color home with you.

WE OFFER POINSETTIA’S GROWN ON SITE Guest will receive 10% discount on any purchase UNIQUE AND A VARIETY OF made COLORS! that evening.

PLANT & CELEBRATE

Pansies Bulbs Shrubs & Trees For Winter Interest & Spring Color!

Christmas Cactus Aryallis Paper Whites Poinsettia’s & Other Holiday Plants Make Great Gifts

TAKING ORDERS FOR:

Corporate Non-Profits Churches Civic Groups And For Your Home!

PLANT &Fall CELEBRATE & Winter Hours thru Christmas

PansiesMon-Fri. 8-5:30 • Sat. 9-5 TAKING ORDERS BulbsNOW OPEN Sundays 1-5 FOR: Shrubs & Trees For Winter www.stanleysgreenhouse.com • 865-573-9591 • 3029 Davenport Corporate Rd. Interest & Spring Color!

5 Minutes from Downtown Knoxville across the river. ts Non-Profi Christmas Cactus Left at 3rd redAryallis light next to Dunkin Donuts. First stop sign, take a right!

Churches Paper Whites Civic Groups Poinsettia’s & And For Your Home!

Other Holiday Plants Make Great Gifts

WE OFFER POINSETTIA’S GROWN ON SITE UNIQUE AND A VARIETY OF COLORS! Fall & Winter Hours thru Christmas Mon-Fri. 8-5:30 • Sat. 9-5 NOW OPEN Sundays 1-5 www.stanleysgreenhouse.com • 865-573-9591 • 3029 Davenport Rd. 5 Minutes from Downtown Knoxville across the river.

Left at 3rd red light next to Dunkin Donuts. First stop sign, take a right!

WE OFFER POINSETTIA’S GROWN ON SITE UNIQUE AND A VARIETY OF COLORS! Fall & Winter Hours thru Christmas Mon-Fri. 8-5:30 • Sat. 9-5 NOW OPEN Sundays 1-5 www.stanleysgreenhouse.com • 865-573-9591 • 3029 Davenport Rd. 5 Minutes from Downtown Knoxville across the river.

Left at 3rd red light next to Dunkin Donuts. First stop sign, take a right!

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| DECEMBER 2019

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St. James Sessions East Tennessee PBS’ celebration of Over 100 Years of Country Music highlights some of the little known stories of the people, places, and events from East Tennessee that shape the early days of country music. This month we look at The St. James Sessions.

Record companies in 1927 – 1931 became competitive in their quest to find the latest thing. Starting with the Bristol Sessions, rival record labels would go to various locations, set up shop, and invite musicians from all over to sing into a box. Ralph Peer with Victor Taking Machine started it all with the Bristol Sessions, where the Carter Family and Jimmy Rodgers careers got their start. The Johnson City Sessions followed and brought forth such talent as Clarence Ashley’s clawhammer banjo classic recording, “Coo Coo Bird.”

The Bristol Sessions and Johnson City Sessions are widely recognized as the start of country music, but the St. James Session (sometimes known as the Knoxville Sessions), did not enjoy the same notoriety. In 1929 and 1930, Brunswick Records choose The St. James Hotel in Knoxville, TN, as their location to find that Appalachian sound.

The Brunswick label out of Michigan had a reputation for

scouting new sounds before they were discovered. Brunswick partnered with the Knoxville-based furniture company Sterchi Bros. and owners of WNOX radio station, to build the studio. While it may seem like an unlikely pair, it was all part of a marketing plan. Sterchi Bros., one of the largest furniture companies in the US, liked having records playing in furniture stores, which is where people at the time purchased record players. This unlikely partnership served a dual purpose, selling records and selling record players.

The most famous of the 40 musicians that recorded at the St. James Sessions was Uncle Dave Macon None of Uncle Dave Macon’s recordings survived, and it is not clear as to if that was due to technical issues or money disagreements. The Tennessee Chocolate Drops, a local trio, recorded Knox County Stomp and Vine Street Rag, both known for their place in early country music history.

The grassy hill with the gated entrance to the TVA East Tower stands where the St. James Hotel used to be. When in Knoxville, take the Cradle of Country Music Walking tour, one of the stops is a placard recognizing where the St. James Sessions took place.

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DECEMBER 2019 |

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Contents

E/I – Wildlife Rescues – Appalachia Wildlife by Winslow Umberger...........17 PBS Knoxville – Country Music..........................................................................3 West Jefferson – Christmas in July by Wesley Barker.......................................4 Sequoyah Museum ...........................................................................................6 Veteran – Merry Christmas from George Washington by Owen Haddock........9 Burnsville, NC – FEATURE STORY by Leah Hughes......................................10 Pappy’s Gunsmithin’and Backwoods Livin’......................................................12 OOAK Gallery – Local Art...............................................................................13 Rocks and Things.............................................................................................14 Mountain Garden Tips – Prepare for Winter...................................................14 Duck Crossing.................................................................................................16

15TH ANNUAL REELFOOT LAKE EAGLE FESTIVAL

Christmas in July 2020

by Wesley Barker In the spirit of the holidays, it’s not too early to be thinking of the Annual Christmas in July Festival in Downtown West Jefferson NC which will be held on Friday and Saturday, July 3rd and 4th, 2020. A festival that began as a promotion of Ashe County's farm grown Christmas tree industry known nationwide, has expanded to include live music, over 100 arts & craft vendors, street performers, food vendors, local non-profits, children’s activities, farmers market & much more while still focusing on the importance of our Christmas tree industry. 2020 marks the 34th year of this popular event which will include a larger music stage and even bigger sound!

The time is now to mark your calendars and plan your vacation to beautiful West Jefferson, NC. Information on the 2020 festival can be found online at www.christmasinjulyfestival.com.

January 31 – February 2

Tiptonville, TN ( Northwest TN) 731-253-2007 Reelfoottourism.com

If you have a love of outdoors and raptors.

This is a festival you don’t want to miss!

This is for birds and art lovers of nature event. Opportunity to see eagles and waterfowl with our, ided bus and photography tours.

Happening during the Festival: E/I – Educational Presentations Activities for Children • Photography Contest Art Contest • Music Performances

Space Cowboy Rescue Mission Escape Room Call 336-846-2410 or go to greatsoutherngothic.com to book!

Mystical Gifts • Handmade • Jewelry • Candles • Bath Bombs Create your own Perfume & Beard Oil • Crystal Specimens • 2nd Hand Books and Clothing • Atmosphere • Novelty • Art • Southern Culture Gothic • Oddities • Curious Collectibles • Steampunk • Stickers Pins • Posters • Patches • Loose Herbs • Herbal Teas • Aromatherapy Divination Tools • Faerie Gardens • Succulent Plants • FUN AND MORE!

103 N Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson, NC Look Us Up On Facebook & Instagram

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| DECEMBER 2019

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Merry Christmas from George Washington

By Owen Haddock, Military Editor

G

eneral Washington often prayed to rise above the constant tensions, uncertainties and confusion created by friends and enemies alike.

He was just driven out of New York, had his Continental Army shrink from 30,000 to 2500 and faced doubt from everyone. Yet he went right to the genius of attacking a professional German force in Trenton, New Jersey.

Despite having to march Christmas eve in a driving snow storm. The storm was so severe that the Delaware River was left unguarded.

The Germans were not getting drunk on Christmas eve as commonly reported. Col. Johann Rall, commanding, did apparently drink heavily throughout the night thanks to an American agent, who kept him exchanging toasts. The Americans were handicapped with one third of their force not provisioned boots.

The latter wrapped their feet in burlap and left a blood trail during the march. The Germans were worn out from earlier hit and run attacks.

On Christmas day, Dec. 26, 1776, they arrived at dawn. The violent snow storm, which disguised the American advance, became known as the “Christmas Miracle”.

The storm did force two of Gen. Washington’s column’s to turn back.

Again Washington’s brilliance saved the day. He split his remaining column in half with Nathanial Green

leading the Northern pincer and John Sullivan attacked from the West to cut off the line of retreat.

The victory was stunning: Americans had 5 wounded with the British experiencing 905-1010 casualties.

Twenty two Germans were killed (including Col. Rall), 83 wounded and 800 - 900 missing and captured.

More importantly the Continental Army captured invaluable munitions, arms and other supplies, which allowed Washington to attack and win the Battle of Princeton in Jan., 1777. These victories were essential to restoring American and world confidence in their revolution. Fifteen thousand new recruits joined The audacity of Gen. Washington’s tactics showed how we could defeat a much larger occupying force.

We live in a time where many Americans want to give up on the core values that made our country work for all. We need to revisit how our modest beginnings overcame overwhelming difficulties and allowed for the spiritual, political and cultural growth essential to a free society.

The Christmas Miracle has kept our holidays a reason for celebration.

Merry Christmas and Happiest of Holidays to All, Owen Haddock Editor, Military Veterans Articles Mountain Escapes oshaddock@comcast.net

Print of Prayer at Valley Forge was provided from Patriotic Education's collection by board member Col. Bert L. Rice USA. Col. Rice served two tours in thr Republic of Vietnam and was awarded the Silver Star. “Prayer At Valley Forge” by Arnold Finberg

Owen S. Haddock Military Editor - "Mountain Escapes Magazine" Recent Past Chair Military Order of World Wars Recent Past National Security Chair Chair, Patriotic Education, Inc. Air Commando Association, VVA Chapter 1078 American Legion, Post 2, Order of Daedalians (Founded by WW I Combat Pilots)

Distinguished Military Graduate, 800th AFROTC Wing University of Tennessee Class of 1964 Ref: Battle of Trenton Facts and Summary/American Battlefield Trust Newt Gingrich: George Washington’s Lessons for Today

Colonel Bert Rice

vonore, maryville, Farragut, TN

The Heart of Country Help Support a No Kill Blount County Humane Society!

CAT ADOPTIONS ARE ALWAYS 2ND SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH 6 ITEMS ALWAYS IN NEED OF: • Paper towels • Small paper plates • Can cat food • GERBER Baby Food for our SENIORS • All Natural - No Chemicals Cleaning Products • ODOBON cleaner

Show your LOVE for the Animals!

Primitives and Home Décor

2 Locations 11523 KINGSTON PK. FARRAGUT, TN 37934

1410 SEVIEVILLE RD. MARYVILLE, TN 37804

865-603-4285 • Mon-Sat 10am – 6pm • Sunday 1-6 pm 2408 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy Maryville, TN 37804 www.LittleRiverTradingCo.com

865-681-4141

6 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES

Donations can be mailed to or dropped off at: All Creatures Thrift Store 1005 E Broadway Ave., Maryville, TN 37804 CALL Leila for Adoptions at 650-454-6843 www.blountcountyhumanesociety.org

| DECEMBER 2019

ocated in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Ross and Pam Leslie have been specializing in primitive home décor for over 30 years as The Heart of Country. They now have retail space in two locations, Knoxville and Maryville, inside of Homespun. issuu.com/mountainescapesmagazine

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knoxville, tn

Chantal Jones Hair Artist 21+ Years Experience

Located at 5113 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919 865-919-1175

Merry Christmas Happy Holidays

Located at 5113 Kingston Pike Suite B Knoxville, TN 37919 865-588-5775

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DECEMBER 2019 |

MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 7

Knoxville, TN

2543 Sutherland Ave. ☼ Knoxville, TN 37919 865-523-9177 ☼ www.skiscuba.com Store Hours: Tue-Fri 10-6 ☼ Sat 9-4 Closed Sun and Mon

Ski Scuba is your “local” source for Scuba Diving Training ☼ Become an SSI Open Water Diver with personalized training!

DECEMBER SCHEDULE:

JANUARY SCHEDULE:

TRY SCUBA 17th – Tuesday –update 6pm – 9pm 21st – Saturday – 10am – 1pm 28th – Saturday – 10am – 1pm

TRY SCUBA 9 th – Thursday – 6pm – 9pm 18th – Saturday – 6pm – 9pm 21st – Tuesday – 6pm – 9pm

OPEN WATER – January 4th & 5th and February 1st & 2nd Classes go from 9 to 6 both Saturday and Sunday

Travel with Us! Call & make plans for our 2020 Trips!

Classes, Trips, Scuba Gear Make Great Christmas Gifts!

8 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES

| DECEMBER 2019

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Order as many as you want!

The more you buy, the more discounts apply.

Pillows Zipper Covers – Machine Washable

Call to place your order!

865-242-1512 We ship anywhere in the U.S. Shipping cost will apply

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DECEMBER 2019 |

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burnsville, nc

omething omething dar is the dar is the 8. This 18. This dition to ddition to eshments eshments ng on all ing on all

Saturday, Saturday, ies come lies come everyone everyone t time of at time of

ort drive

Give the Gift

of the Outdoors in Burnsville, NC Enjoy a fabulous New York style lunch or Enjoy a fabulous New York style lunch or dinner at an affordable price! dinner at an affordable price!

Burnsville’s Full-Service Bar & Kitchen Burnsville’s Full-Service Bar & Kitchen

B

urnsville, North Carolina, is home to the highest mountains on the East Coast. That rugged terrain makes for excellent hiking and biking routes. The Toe River Valley is a scenic oasis through the middle of Yancey County with trout-filled streams and waterfalls branching off in all directions. This rural landscape is a paradise for outdoorsmen, whether novice or experienced. As gift-giving season approaches, consider giving an outdoor experience rather than a physical present.

Bare Dark Sky Observatory, located at Mayland Earth to Sky Park, provides some of the most pristine night-sky viewing in the Southeast.

The large telescope allows visitors to see the moon’s craters in detail, the eye of Jupiter, Saturn’s rings and more. The observatory hosts community viewing nights on Fridays and Saturdays, depending on the moon phase and weather conditions. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children 12 and younger. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available at www.Mayland.edu/Observatory.

Kyle Burnette grew up fishing in Burnsville. Now he shares that experience with others through his business, Southern Drifters Outfi tters.

Enjoy a fabulous New YorkLocatstyle lunch or ed in downtown Burnsville, Burnette runs a retail store with all the gear dinner at an affordable price! you need to get outdoors, as well as an outfitter. Choose from half-day or full-day, float or wade trips that explore miles of trout streams in WestBurnsville’s Full-Service Bar & Kitchen ern North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. Discounts are available when booking for two people, so the trips make great gifts for couples, siblings and friends. To learn more, go to www.SouthernDriftersOutfitters.com.

Going for a hike in an unfamiliar area can be intimidating, but local naturalist Tal Galton strives to make the Black Mountains and their lofty heights more accessible to visitors and locals. Through his business, Snakeroot Ecotours, he leads themed and custom hikes for small groups. Discover rare orchids, hidden waterfalls and blue ghost fireflies as you make your way through the forest. For a more immersive experience, Galton hosts multiday Blue Ridge nature retreats in the spring. Choose from the full list of offerings at www.SnakerootEcotours.com.

While planning an outdoor excursion in Burnsville, make it a full weekend by staying in a quaint inn, homey bed-and-breakfast or vacation rental. For more information about the area including lodging options, go to www.YanceyChamber.com or call (828) 682-7413.

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DECEMBER 2019

From

Wings Wings ii Seashore Seashore Fries Fries ii FishTacos FishTacos Gift Certificates - Makes Great Holiday Gifts!

Relax & Refresh at Enjoy a fabulous New York style lunch or dinner at an affordable price, next to the fireplace!

Mon-Sat 11am-2pm Thurs-Sat 5pm-8pm www.garden-deli.com

828-682-3946

Burnsville’s Full-Service Bar & Kitchen

107 Town Square Burnsville, NC.

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Burnsville, NC MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

NEW ARRIVALS DAILY: WOMEN’S, CHILDREN’S, MEN’S & HOUSEHOLD

ONGOING 50% OFF SALE!

(828) 682-1186 • 7 Town Square • Burnsville, NC 28714

Hours of Operation: M - F 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Saturdays 10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Closed on Sundays

T

he Crazy Daisy Thrift Boutique helps support the programs of the Family Violence Coalition of Yancey County, Inc., so every time you donate clothing or household items to the store or make a purchase you are helping the FVC’s domestic violence and sexual assault programs. The FVC is a private, non-profit that has served victims of both domestic violence and rape/ sexual assault in Yancey County, N.C. since 1995. In addition to an emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence

and/or sexual assault and their children, the FVC also provides a 24/7 crisis line, medical and legal advocacy, peer counseling, crisis intervention, referrals and information, multiple support groups, limited transportation and financial assistance, as well as outreach education/awareness. Stopping violence in our communities start with all of us.

The 24-hour crisis line for the FVC is (828) 682-0056.

Mailing address: P.O. Box 602, Burnsville, N.C. 28714.

56 Stardust Rd. Burnsville, NC 28714 828-682-8043 Spring Hours: Wed-Fri 10-5 Sat 10-2pm

´ shop nestled in Yancey County. We feature farmhouse ´ decor, American made Barn Charm is a home decor furniture, and vintage reproductions. Our stylish´ decor is sure to compliment any room in your home, while creating a warm authentic feel. We have combinations of old and new, rustic to modern, farmhouse furniture, and shabby to chic. Come see us for charming finds .and smiling faces.

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DECEMBER 2019 |

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Burnsville, NC

Gift Certificates Available

110 Reservoir Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714 828-536-5500 Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:00am-9:00pm Friday and Saturday 11:00am-10:00pm

613 West US Hwy 19E Bypass Burnsville, NC 28714 (828) 536-5250

W

hat is a Pappy’s Gunsmithin’ and Backwoods Livin’? We do gunsmithing, and gun sales.

But Pappy has gone one step further and now repairs and sells air guns. If you think air rifles are just kids’ stuff - think again. He just got one in that shoots a .22 caliber pellet at 900fps. That’s as fast as a subsonic .22. We also have targets. Targets are fun, but exploding targets are just plain cool! (New Years Eve is coming.)

But what about this backwoods livin’? This is all kind of things from books on homesteading, selfdefense, and all kinds of the old school ways to

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DECEMBER 2019

equipment for hiking, camping, and outdoor fun. He also carries aromatherapy oils and diffusers, trail and food storage freeze dried foods and snacks. We even pizza ovens that sit on top of a large 2 burner stove.

He’ll also sell you the 2-burner stove. Seriously, the only way to truly understand all he carries is to come in and browse around.

So how did Pappy end up here instead of retiring like any sane man would do? Well, Pappy was a soldier for 22 years serving as an Infantryman, then as a Special Forces (Green Beret)medic. After retirement he went to Kuwait and then Iraq for 3 years. He was

Veteran Owned & Operated

injured and decided to come home and become a gunsmith. He took the Master Gunsmithing Course at American Gunsmithing Institute. Here he learned how all the parts work together which gave him the ability to diagnose and repair, rather than just replace parts and hope. With all this in place it was time to open Pappy’s Gunsmithin’ and Backwoods Livin’. He started in February 2015 working out of his garage. From there he moved to his shop at 56 Stardust and things started doing better. This year we moved into town at 613 West US Hwy 19E just across the street from TD Bank.

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micaville, burnsville, NC

Burnsville Wedding Expo SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2020 11:00am - 3:00pm

Burnsville Town Center Venue & Event Space Burnsville, NC 28714 (828) 208-0044

Monday-Saturday 10:00 to 5:30 Sunday 12:00 to 5:00 828-675-0690 573 Micaville Loop Burnsville, NC 28714 ooakartgallery.com Music jam Saturday mornings at 10!

O

(828) 766-1233 Bare Dark Sky Observatory Community Viewing Nights Join us for an evening of stargazing as you've never seen before!

You will have the opportunity to view the moon, planets and stars through our 34" diameter Sam Scope, as well as our smaller planetary telescope. With the assistance of our Observatory Manager, you will spend 2 hours viewing and learning about the dark skies.

December Community Dates December 14 – 6:15 December 20 – 6:15 December 27 – 6:15

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ne of a Kind Art Gallery, celebrating its eighth year of operation, continues to grow with the works of over 170 local artists and craftspeople in the nostalgic Old Micaville Country Store.

Gallery owner Kari Weaver invites you to come on in and enjoy the fine, folk, and funky local art. The selection of artwork includes pottery, jewelry, paintings, prints, photography, lamps, woodworking, and more.

The mountains of Western North Carolina are home to a diverse and vibrant art community, and OOAK offers a broad representation of the creative work being done here. Artwork is uniquely displayed in the vintage 1922 building which retains much of its original architecture still in place, right down to the original hardwood floor and windows.

OOAK has brought live music to Micaville by having the Micaville Music Jam every Saturday morning in the loft. Hosted by local singer-songwriter David Wiseman, the Jam is a gathering of local musicians and visitors to play and share music together. Everyone is welcome.

Micaville Music is proud to be a part of the Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina.

Come visit us and stay awhile. Hours are 10:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Saturday and noon to 5:00 pm on Sunday. We are open 7 days a week through the first week of January.

Micaville is located 4 miles east of Burnsville, NC, 9 miles west of Spruce Pine, NC, and 14 miles north of BRP milepost 344 at the intersection of Hwy 80 S and Micaville Loop on the Mt Mitchell Scenic Byway. For more information, please call 828-675-0690, email ooakartgallery@gmail.com, or visit us on Facebook or ooakartgallery.com

DECEMBER 2019 |

MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 13

spruce pine, nc Fall Bulbs for Spring Blooms

Hours Monday–Saturday 8:30-5:30 Closed Sunday Spruce Pine, NC (828) 765-9133

New this season. We’ve increased our “Mercantile” space!

Kick Off & Starts our

“Christmas Countdown” *Fresh Poinsettias *Fresh Christmas Trees *Wreaths & Garland – Great for Home Décor inside or out

Gift items Bob Timberlake Outdoor Furniture & Fire Pits by Buck Stove, Locally made in Spruce Pine

A New Toy Shoppe has arrived just in time for Santa Claus shopping and North Carolina produced goods.

Gift Certificates Available

Rocks and Things Christmas is approaching really fast so come in and see all the wonderful gifts you can get for family and friends or just for YOU. Don’t forget to use the 10% off coupon below while you are here.

We are usually open 7 days a week from 9 to 5.

We have over 1,500 rings for you to choose from including 200 Native American turquoise rings. We have 4 Squash Blossom necklace/earring signed sets, 6 silver and turquoise necklaces, 20 turquoise and gemstone necklaces, 50 earring sets, 300 gemstone pendants, and a lot more silver and gemstone jewelry. We carry a large number of authentic Native American items. We have thousands of crystals, from tiny single points to 90 pound single points and clusters up to 80 pounds. We also carry many metaphysical items like crystal balls, pendants, pendulums and a nice supply of crystal skulls. We have some antiques and vintage glassware.

For our virtual tour see www.shopmainstreets.com Select North Carolina, Spruce Pine, Rocks and Things PRESENT THIS COUPON FOR

10% OFF

OF ALL ORDERS OVER $100

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DECEMBER 2019

114 Oak Avenue Spruce Pine,NC 28777 Store: 828-765-1667 Cell: 813-765-3073

Healthy Mtn Gardener Winter is Quiet Time for Lawns – Prepare for the Grown Season – Spring!

N

ow is the time to replant that tree or shrub in your yard that needed to be transplanted this past summer.

It’s time to clean up gardening tools and lawn mowers. You can now cut back and prune plants before new growth starts back in springtime.

Flowering shrubs can be pruned in February. Cut to a low frame work to encourage new growth. Don’t fertilize your lawn too early, before April, it can increase disease and problems.

Zoned for winter hardiness: Flowering Quince Witch Hazel Juniper Winterberry & Holly Snowdrop Boxwood

Buy your shrubs, trees, BULBS, lawn and garden supplies from us – Lakeview Mercantile & Gardens Let the experts help you have a beautiful Lawn and Garden for springtime!

665 Oak St. Spruce Pine, NC 28777 – 828-765-9133 issuu.com/mountainescapesmagazine

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Merry

spruce pine, newland, crossnore, nc Christmas! Snowy Mountain Christmas Shop & Sweets

Great gifts and home decorfor the holiday season!

New Shipment of ROCKING CHAIRS arriving just in time for Christmas!

Ornaments, Candles, Throws, Socks, Tableware, Handbags, & much, much more.

OPEN ON CHRISTMAS EVE UNTIL 5PM, THEN CLOSED FOR THE WINTER.

Home of the Finest in Rustic Furniture

828.765.8261

swtradingcompany.com 279 Oak Ave Spruce Pine, NC Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Farm, fresh greenery, pre cut trees at the shop.

December Hours: Mon. – Sat. 9am-7pm Sun. 1-6pm. Santa every Sat. 12-4pm Call Shop for Friday Evening Hours

828-737-9313

Hwy 221, Crossnore, NC • 828-737-9313 Check us out on Facebook SnowyMountainChristmasShopAndSweets.com

A Mountain

Christmas

Trail of Lights & Holiday Events

November 30- December 31 st

Over fifteen miles of twinkling holiday lights, displays and events from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the artist haven of Bakersville and beyond.

The Mountain Christmas Trail of Lights is a gift from our community to you! From the community’s trail of lights and displays to a month of holiday events for you and your family… we invite you to celebrate the holidays with us in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

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Hours: Mon-Tues 8-2 Breakfast & Lunch Saturday: All you can Eat Breakfast 8-2 Sunday: Brunch 9-1 Dinner- Tues, Thurs, Fri. & Sat: 5-9 503 Pineola Street • Newland, NC 28657 • 828-737-0314 DECEMBER 2019 |

MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 15

elizabethton, tn Come on by and get inspired!

Christmas Open House Sunday, December 8th 1:00-6:00 Evenings on Elk Friday, December 13th 5:00-9:00 Voted #1 Antique Mall in Elizabethton

Fletcher’s Homemade A quilt shop and so much more in the heart of Elizabethton’s Historic District. Fletcher’s Homemade specializes in quality quilting fabrics and notions. Local made goods are on hand to support our talented local artists such as doll clothes, soaps, homemade buttons, jewelry, embroidered items, photography and more. I also make tee shirt quilts from your collection and long arm quilt new and vintage quilt tops.

Duck Crossing is a three floor one-of-a-kind antique store. Featuring everything from fine furniture, primitive findings, vintage clothing to new home decor items & gifts. You will also find local memorabilia and handmade crafts.

Located in the heart of downtown Elizabethton, TN among more than 20 antique/gift stores & local eateries.

Quality quilting cotton fabrics including batiks and

Northcott Toscana fabrics.

Patterns, and notions.

Located in Historic Downtown Elizabethton Featuring locally made products, perfect for practical at 510 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643 gift giving: natural soaps, jewelry, adorable doll clothes, pillows, ceramic206-979-7811 buttons and clever embroidered dish towels.

Unique ornaments and vintage broaches.

FletchersHomemade@gmail.com Begin to quilt class! www.fletchershomemade.com FletchersHomemade.com

423-518-1858

515 E Elk Avenue • OPEN 7 days a week!

Mon-Fri 11-5:30 • Sat 10-6 • Sun 1-5

/ DuckCrossingElizabethton

or email me at fletchershomemade@gmail.com

DUCK CROSSING'S CUSTOMER APPRECIATION CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8TH 1-6PM

ELVES ON ELK FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13TH 5-9PM.

Located in Historic Downtown Elizabethton at 510 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643.

&

New items arriving daily!

Come see Duck Crossing's amazing selection of Vintage Christmas decor! We have aluminum trees, vintange ornaments and tree toppers, ceramic Christmas trees, blowmold Santas along with other vintage lawn ornaments. Exclusive items like "Coming Home" soy candles, Covered Bridge Christmas Cards and post cards. With over 40 vendors and local artisans spread out over three floors, Duck Crossing has something unique for everyone on your list!

Pepper

206-979-7811 SHOP & CAFE HOURS

Wednesday – Friday 11am - 3pm Saturdays 11am – 3pm CLOSED SUNDAY THRU TUESDAY from Fletcher’s Homemade, because homemade is just better!

Happy New Year Long arm quilt service available. Make your new or vintage quilt top into a beautiful heirloom. I also make tee shirt quilts and memory quilts. Email for more information on upcoming sewing classes: quilting, garment construction and crafty.

FletchersHomemade@gmail. com FletchersHomemade.com

We offer monthly classes – Please check our website for dates & times DECEMBER CLASS WORKSHOP: Making Elderberry Syrup Saturday - December 14th 2pm Hiker & Biker Gift Bags, soaps, essential oils, teas and lunch is always a great gift for Christmas!

547 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643 • Phone: (423) 518-1229 • www.glowherbals.com

Delicious Sandwiches, Salads, Soups and Sweets

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Kingsport, Jonesborough,Greeneville, TN | NC Where Are the Bears?

LampLight Theatre With preparations for Christmas coming around the corner, LampLight Theatre ushers in two Kingsport classics for the holiday season. This year’s productions, The Toymaker’s Wish and The Christmas Heirloom , bring heartwarming messages of family, home and love.

Through song and storytelling, the audience will be swept away into the lives of the shows’ characters and leave with hearts full of Christmas spirit. Performances for The Toymaker’s Wish will be held from November 8 through November 24, and The Christmas Heirloom will show on November 30 through December 20. For tickets and information, visit https://www.lamplighttheatre.com/ or call 423-343-1766.

Lamplight Theatre 140 Broad St Kingsport, TN 37660 BOX OFFICE: 423-343-1766 Administration: 423-245-1551

Noelle Invites You Avoid the crowds as you join us for extended store hours Every Friday in November 5pm – 8pm

TAKE A ROAD TRIP BACK IN TIME!

T

his summer, bear sightings were numerous. So where are they now? Asleep in their dens so perhaps your high-hanging bird feeder is safe for now. They are in a state of torpor, a deep sleep.

Yet, this is a busy time for females. According to Justin McVey, district wildlife biologist for the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, “January is about the time cubs are born. Mom hangs out in the den, nursing them.

Male bears will also be denning but, on a warm day, it is not uncommon to see one on the prowl.”

While most envision bears overwintering in caves, the most common “den” is simply a thick, brushy area. They also shelter under the branches of a toppled tree or in the crater of its upturned root ball.

Denning is genetically engrained in bears and is triggered by a drop in temperature and the absence of food. When it starts to warm up, they will emerge from their dens, with bear cubs sticking close to their mothers. Cubs are weaned around July; by September, they will weigh about 25 pounds and can survive on their own, although they typically remain with mothers for a year and a half.

McVey is on the Advisory Board of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, a nonprofit that provides care for injured and orphaned wildlife. If you find an animal in need, check out the “Found an Animal” flowcharts at AppalachianWild.org or email wildlife@appalachianwild.org. If you spot a bear in need, that’s Justin’s department. Visit ncwildlife.org for more.

$5 Admission 40+ Cars

City Garage Car Museum 210 South Main St., Greeneville, TN 37743 • (423) 638-6971 www.citygaragecarmuseum.com • Wednesday – Saturday 10am-4pm issuu.com/mountainescapesmagazine

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PHOTOS BY STEVE ATKINS of FOX COVE PHOTOGRAPHY

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MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 17

hot springs, waynesville, nc Bringing Art & Photos to Life

Kuhl, Teva, Chaco Natural Foods Toys, Maps, Books & Local Information Shop with us for holiday gifts!

Something for the hiker, family, friend or yourself.

Appalachian Trail Mile Marker 271

Village Framer

152 Bridges St Hot Springs, NC 28743

Waynesville’s Premier Custom Framing Studio And Gallery 56 N. Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-0823

828-622-7162

bluffmountain.com Sunday-Thursday 9am-5pm Friday & Saturday 9am-6pm

SPENCEBERRY ANTIQUES

Happy Holidays from Hazel and the Avery Humane Society!

184 N. Main St. • Downtown Waynesville, NC 28786

This is what love, medical care and your support look like! Hazel posed for you just before going home with her forever family. She’d come a long way in a month.

Hazel was in bad shape when she was brought to the shelter. She needed immediate medical attention for a skin condition and had lost big patches of fur. She was trembling and scared.

828-646-1403

Expansive, attractive, upscale collection of mid-century & antiques. Fine home and clock repair.

Your gift today will provide medical care for animals like Hazel.

It will go twice as far now to end of year.

*Buy *Sell * Trade *Auctions * Specializing in rare items Currently large selection of 30’s & 40’s Petty PinUps

Because of a wonderful donor has offered a match of up to $10,000 to cover medical expenses.

Every donation—regardless of amount—will be matched!

Hazel thanks you for your support, and so do we! https://www.averyhumane.org/donate And stay tuned for photos and videos of Hazel celebrating her first holiday season with her forever family. #holidayswithhazel

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Burnsville, NC

Something lendar is the 6-18. This addition to

pping on all

& Saturday, milies come nd everyone p at time of

e short drive ift Shop and picturesque them out on

Free Gift Wrapping Conveniently Located Downtown Extended Holiday Hours Free Personalization on Ornaments Great Selection of Gifts under $20 Gift Cards Available

Holiday Hours

Mon-Thurs 9-6, Friday & Sat 9-7, Sun 11-5 12 West Main Street Downtown Burnsville

828-682-9101

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Burnsville is situated in the heart of Blue Ridge mountains and is well worth the short drive to experience it’s hometown charm. The Something Special Gift Shop and Monkey Business Toy Shop is located at 12 west main street, one block from the picturesque town square.

For more information on the shops in general, check us out on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/somethingspecialburnsvillenc

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DECEMBER 2019 |

MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 19

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

APP JAVA LOGO ITEMS & APPAREL

Let us do the cooking!

Catering Menu Available for All of Your Holiday Special Events.

Contact the Cafe for Details

8 W MAIN ST, BURNSVILLE, NC 28714 (828) 682-0120

UNIQUELY CRAFTED BY LOCAL ARTISANS