Banner Elk My Hometown 2023-24

my 2023-2024 BANNER ELK hometown The High Country is a great place to visit... and a better place to live!

Retail • Entertainment • Restaurants • Events • Recreation • Important Numbers Real Estate • Organizations • Chambers of Commerce • Civic Groups • Education

Welcome to banner Elk - the place to BE

I

have lived most of my 74 years in Banner Elk and have seen it grow and change over those years in numerous ways. However, the character of Banner Elk, the heart of Banner Elk, has not changed. It is the place I want to BE. It is my hometown and I want to share it with you.

I am a third-generation resident of Banner Elk. My roots are deeply embedded in our beautiful mountains. My grandfather brought his bride to live in Banner Elk in 1910 at the request of Reverent Edgar Tuffs, the founder of Lees-McRae College.

He established a hospital and served the medical needs of the area his entire life, as did my father and brother. I live within sight of my grandfather’s home and the home where I grew up. This is the place where I was meant to BE. As the President of the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, one of my favorite activities is serving as one of the volunteer hosts at our Welcome Center. On Mondays, I am honored to welcome our many visitors to my hometown and answer questions about my favorite place to be. In fact, the slogan written on our shirts at the Welcome Center is, “Just BE.” Just being in Banner Elk is a pleasure for me, as it is for our fulltime residents, part-time residents and our many visitors throughout each season of the year.

Banner Elk, situated in the beautiful

Blue Ridge concerts in Mountains, has the Tate-Evans four distinct Town Park. seasons to enjoy.

Fall is a perfect Our elevation time to take cools the air and a drive along helps people the Blue Ridge who live off Parkway south our mountain of Grandfather to escape the Mountain summer heat. to enjoy the The magnificent dramatic colors of our autumnal mountains in colors of our the autumn are mountains. an attraction Banner Elk sits that draws between the people from far two largest ski Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce President David L. resorts in the and near. Once Tate. the leaves fall South for those from the trees, who like skiing, our cold weather can decorate the trees snowboarding and other snowy pursuits. with rime ice, which is fog frozen around Springtime hiking trips to Linville Gorge, each little bare branch. Snow-covered Grandfather Mountain or Roan Mountain mountains are also a regular treat. Spring are always a bountiful feast of beauty. is a beautiful time of rebirth with many Exploring the mountains in and around flowering shrubs and wildflowers greeting Banner Elk will work up your appetite, the warming temperatures. and Banner Elk offers the widest array of Each season provides different activities dining experiences in the High Country. to enjoy. Summer brings moderate American, Italian, Chinese, Cajun, temperatures making golf, hiking, cycling Vietnamese and Mexican cuisine are all or just sitting around an outdoor fire excellent and readily available. If you want a distinct pleasure. Our Chamber of a salad or a unique sandwich or prime rib, Commerce offers a summer series of free you can find the best in Banner Elk.

Lees-McRae College is one of the few colleges in the U.S. named for two women – generous benefactor Mrs. Susanna P. Lees and celebrated North Carolina teacher Mrs. Elizbeth A. McRae. It is a fully accredited institution of higher learning with many programs of study offered, including nursing, wildlife rehabilitation and theater arts. Lees-McRae College has a nationally ranked cycling team and offers a variety of other sports. Lees-McRae College is currently engaged in a major rehabilitation of its main campus and has added the South Campus through the purchase of Grandfather Home for Children. LeesMcRae College has always been and will always be a major part of Banner Elk. In addition to the musical and dramatic play productions provided by the college, Ensemble Stage Company offers a full season of professional productions in its own theater, located in the Cultural Arts Center in the Historic Banner Elk School.

You can also find the BE Artist Gallery, the Banner Elk Book Exchange, Common Ground, and Avery Community Yoga in the Historic Banner Elk School’s Cultural Arts Center.

Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, Banner Elk is the place to BE. DAVID L. TATE

President , Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to banner Elk and Avery County - small town, USA

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anner Elk is an exceptional example of small town USA we have to offer here in Avery County.

It has the prestige of being a college town that is home to Lees-McRae College which is a vital part of this small mountain community. It flourishes with a rich local culture, a diverse population of visitors, full and part–time residents. People come here to visit from all walks of life to enjoy

the beauty of our mountains, all the many outdoor recreational activities, to include our first-class ski destinations and some of the finest dining in the High Country.

The Avery County Sheriff ’s Office considers it an honor and privilege to serve this community and Avery County.

As we take on the mission to provide public safety, we want to ensure that

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everyone who visits Avery County will have a safe and enjoyable experience in the High Country.

As the Sheriff of Avery County, I want to extend a warm welcome to all of the many visitors who make Avery County a vacation destination every year.

MIKE HENLEY Avery County Sheriff

Photo submitted

Avery County Sheriff Mike Henley.

Mountain Times Publications

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Avery County - what can we do for you?

elcome to Avery County, a special place and a hidden jewel.

Our county consists of 11 charming small towns, each with its own personality. They are Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Crossnore, Elk Park, Linville, Linville Falls, Newland, Pineola, Plumtree, Seven Devils and Sugar Mountain.

Although we are nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, we are only a 2-hour drive or less to four airports, Asheville Regional Airport, Avery County Airport, Tri-Cities Airport and Charlotte International Airport.

We are lucky to enjoy all four seasons in Avery County. We are probably best known for our fall color and our now nationally known Woolly Worm Festival. Our winters offer the opportunity for skiing and snowboarding at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain resorts and nearby Appalachian Ski Mtn. Our spring and summers offer amazingly moderate temperatures. We have plenty to offer to those who enjoy the outdoors including hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, tubing (snow and water), golfing, horseback riding, zip lining, swimming and skiing. In fact, Avery County

has eight golf courses and only seven stop history which is documented at the Avery lights.

County Historical Museum in Newland, the county seat. While there, visitors, and especially There is so much to do in Avery County.

Railroad enthusiasts, can experience the We host numerous art festivals including lovingly restored Linville Depot and Caboose juried Fine Arts and Master Crafts Festivals, #505 of Tweetsie Railroad fame.

Oktoberfest, Sugarfest and our famous Woolly Worm Festival. We now offer the NC Cultural events are offered by Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster and Lees-McRae College and Ensemble the nearby Bare Dark Sky Observatory Stage. Visitors have fun discovering and Planetarium, one of only two in works from local artisans in our art the world. Our Grandfather Mountain galleries and shops and nearby Penland is home to the Highland Games held Gallery. Live music is one of the most every July. popular events in our area. You can find schedules for most venues on our Grandfather Mountain offers a Robin website, averycounty.com as well as a wildlife habitat for viewing otters, Morgan directory of our members and a digital eagles, elk, deer, black bears and Executive copy of our Visitors & Business Guide. cougars. The Wilson Center for Nature Director Discovery includes a dozen interactive Linville Caverns is a popular spot to exhibits that connect to the mountain’s 16 cool off on the rare days that our temperatures natural communities, weather, climate and top 75 degrees. Open year-round, one can see natural history. Grandfather’s outdoor learning amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations, spaces include an amphitheater among the a bottomless pool, underground stream with trees and a pavilion. Inside, an ADA-accessible native trout and more. theater, classrooms and food service facilities We have several choices of healthcare expand the park’s capacity for hosting events. providers. These include everything from Avery County celebrates a rich cultural UNC Health Appalachian providers, Cannon

Memorial Hospital, Appalachian Regional Behavioral Health, Ballad Health Medical Associates - Urgent Care and High-Country Community Health to individual practices like Dogwood Primary Care & Medical Aesthetics and Women’s Health of the High Country. We also have several options for your wellness needs with The Williams YMCA, Adorned Aesthetics, Zenergy Massage and the Spa at Eseeola Lodge.

The Avery County Chamber office serves as the Visitors Center for Avery County. We invite you to stop by the Chamber when you are visiting. We are in the Shoppes of Tynecastle at 4501 Tynecastle Hwy, Unit 14 in Banner Elk. We would love to answer your questions and help you find your new favorite things to do in Avery County. If you can’t stop in, feel free to call us at (828) 898-5605.

We look forward to welcoming you to Avery County.

ROBIN MORGAN Executive Director Avery County Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to Banner Elk - a special kind of town

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anner Elk is special. No one comes here that doesn’t want to stay.

You might have already read the information shared in this publication by the two Chambers of Commerce about the area’s beautiful scenery, seasons and amenities.

Now let’s delve into what the Town of Banner Elk has done to make the downtown so inviting and special.

We had an historic elementary school built in 1938-1939 by the WPA, which closed in 2011 when a new school was built. This school is in the heart of downtown. With lots of community effort, this rock schoolhouse was transformed into the Cultural Arts Center. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017. It now houses BE Artist Gallery, Banner Elk Book Exchange, Carolina Mountain Life Magazine Corporate Office, Avery Community Yoga Studio, Buckhead Photography Studio, Common Grounds, Mountain Times Publications

and Ensemble Stage. The Ensemble Stage is to add a road from Town Hall to the Historic a 99-seat theater space converted from the Banner Elk School. This will add more old school auditorium. Gary Smith and Lisa accessibility and more parking.

Lamont secure professional actors, and this One of the biggest events of the year is our stage company has a huge following.

Fourth of July Parade and Celebration. Come The frontage of the school is a gather with us on Main Street for a large field, which faces the main one-of-a-kind parade that could only road into town. This area is used for be found in Banner Elk. The day ends the famous Woolly Worm Festival in the park with a Duck Race and oldthe third weekend of each October. fashioned lawn games.

Next October will be the 47th year Tate-Evans Town Park is enjoyed by for the Woolly Worm Festival. There people and animals of all ages. There are also four Art on the Greene are many miles of walking/biking Brenda festivals each summer on weekends paths, a dog park, two children’s Lyerly of Memorial Day, The Fourth of July, Banner Elk playgrounds, workout equipment, the first weekend in August and Labor Mayor and a stream for the children to play Day. Other events can be scheduled in. There are also pavilions available through the Banner Elk Town Hall. This area for outdoor gatherings. The park also has has also made available more space for badly an amphitheater. Every Thursday evening needed downtown parking. in summer there is a free concert with great There is more work to be done on the bands, a dance stage and wonderful food school grounds. Construction is under way trucks. Bring your own chair and enjoy. That

amphitheater is also used for outdoor movies and other events.

“A Small Town Christmas” comes to Banner Elk the first weekend in December.

The town park is lit with luminaries and holiday light displays all around the track.

There is a train to ride you around that track so you won’t miss anything.

Speaking of Christmas, on Friday evening of the Small Town Christmas weekend, there is a lighting of the Christmas tree at the Corner on Main. Everyone gathers around the tree with hot chocolate and cookies and listens to Christmas Carolers until the tree is lit. After the tree lighting, everyone heads over to the Ensemble Stage for a Holiday Musical Variety Show. How much more Norman Rockwell could this be?

Can you now see why Banner Elk is special?

BRENDA LYERLY

Banner Elk Mayor

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Welcome to our outstanding education system!

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Avery County Schools Superintendent Dr. Dan Brigman.

ocated in the picturesque town of Banner Elk, Banner Elk Elementary School is one of five elementary schools within the Avery County School System. It is the most recently constructed elementary school in the county and was opened in 2011. The building is a state-of-the-art facility with an administration, faculty and staff who are dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience for all students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.

Banner Elk Elementary School works very closely with our local civic organizations. For example, Kiwanis supports our Terrific Kids’ program and the Woolly Worm Festival. The school also receives tremendous support from the High Country Charitable Foundation for the book exchange program and the after-school program. These are just a few examples that BES is truly a community school and is supported by local businesses and community members.

In addition to a caring and capable staff, Banner Elk Elementary has a very active Parent Teacher Organization.

The PTO, along with school and

county staff, ensure that students have very diverse opportunities to learn including the designation as an “Arts A+” school that integrates the arts with curriculum. BES was recognized in December 2019 as having achieved the distinction of “Exceeding Academic Growth” for the 2018-2019 school year. As a result of outstanding programs and support for all students, enrollment at BES has steadily increased year after year. Technology is woven into all aspects of the curriculum.

The Avery County School System was the first school system in North Carolina to deploy the “1 to 1” initiative. Our “1 to 1” initiative continues to provide students in kindergarten through twelfth grade with computers to support technology requirements expected within the current and future workforce.

When students complete the fifth grade at BES, they will go to one of Avery County’s two middle schools, Cranberry Middle School or Avery Middle School. Following middle school, students then transition to Avery High School.

All of these schools are excellent places for any child to achieve their utmost potential. Avery County

is consistently in the top-five percent for the graduation rate in North Carolina. As a result of our visionary Board of Education and county government, Avery County High School recently received a $22 million expansion and renovation to ensure all students have access to modern, innovative facilities.

In addition to all Avery County’s schools being extraordinary, the community itself is very welcoming and offers true southern hospitality from our local community members. It is a beautiful place with outstanding people, breathtaking views, and something for everyone. If you are new to the area or considering joining our community, we welcome the chance to showcase everything that Avery County has to offer. For more information about our world-class school system and Banner Elk Elementary School, please visit our website at www.averyschools.net.

Very truly yours, DR. DAN BRIGMAN Superintendent, Avery County Schools

Lees-McRae College

Banner Elk’s Hometown Institution

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ear Readers, No place better represents Hometown America than Banner Elk, Avery County, NC and LeesMcRae College is proud to be part of that Hometown.

The administration at the college is serious about preserving our rich ecological environment on our nearly 970 acres of breathtaking mountain land and we take pride in being

distinctive with many of our academic programs. The renovation of our Historic Commons and our recent Mountain Day of Service where over 500 Lees-McRae students and employees gave back to nearly 40 organizations in the High Country are just two outward signs of our commitment to our campus and the community of Banner Elk. Our motto “In the Mountains, Of the Mountains, For the Mountains”

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perfectly describes our focus and our intentionality of making our home here in Avery County unlike any other.

We welcome you to our community and to our campus, and we invite you to experience the many unique qualities of Lees-McRae College and Banner Elk, a place that we are pleased to call Home.

LEE KING

President, Lees-McRae College

Lees-McRae College President Dr. Lee King.

Mountain Times Publications

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY ARTISTS & ART GALLERIES BE Artists Gallery 185 Azalea Cir SE Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-5389 www.beartistsgallery.com Cinda Leigh Art P.O. Box 1101 Banner Elk NC 28604 904-377-8107 www.cindaleigh.com Hardin Fine Jewelry 920 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-4653 www.hardinfinejewelry.com/ It’s All About the Art 163 Shawneehaw Ave S Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 783-9233 https://itsallabouttheart.net/ The Art Cellar Gallery 920 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5175 www.artcellargallery.com/ ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Apple Hill Farm 400 Apple Hill Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-963-1662 www.applehillfarmnc.com Avery County Farmers Market 828-733-5052 www.averycounty farmersmarket. net Banner Elk Soap & Candle Co. 3221 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-4006 https://bannerelksoapcandleco.com/ Carolina Mountain Life Magazine P.O. Box 976 , Linville, NC 28646 828-737-0771 https://cmlmagazine.online/ Elk River Club 1000 Clubhouse Dr. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9773 elkriverclubnc.com

Ensemble Stage 182 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-414-1844 www.ensemblestage.com

Fifth-Third Bank 1667 Tynecastle Hwy. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6351 https://www.53.com

Avery Landscape and Paving 635 Little Horse Creek Rd. Newland NC 28657 919-818-2698 https://averylandscapeandpaving.com/

Epic Nature Tours 931-452-9254 www.epicnaturetours.com

First Community Bank 115 Main St. E. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5100 https://www.firstcommunitybank. com/

Avery Rent-All 1829 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6301 https://averyrent-all.com/

FORUM at Lees-McRae College Pamela Adolphi P.O. Box 649 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-8748 https://www.lmc.edu/community/ forum.htm Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation 2033 Blowing Rock Hwy Linville NC 28604 828-733-2013 www.grandfather.com/ High Mountain Expeditions 3149 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-264-7368 www.highmountainexpeditions.com Holston Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center 6993 Hickory Nut Gap Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 844-465-7866 www.HolstonCenter.org Sugar Mountain Resort, Inc. 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr. Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-4521 www.skisugar.com AUTO SALES Ross Chrysler Jeep Dodge 2282 Hwy 105 South Boone NC 28607 828-264-2875 Rossauto.com FINANCIAL, INSURANCE, & LEGAL SERVICES Blue Ridge Advocacy Center PO Box 2171 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-386-1116 Cardfollow, LLC Foster Sube 864-800-3735

Mountain Times Publications

High Country Wealth Management 1900 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-3993 John M. Wright, Attorney 139 Main Street East Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9761 www.johnmwrightattorney.com/ LifeStore Insurance Services 148 Highway 105 Extension Boone NC 28607 828-264-2626 https://www.lifestoreinsurance.com/ Fortner Insurance Agency, Inc. 156 Main St. E. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6366 www.fortnerinsurance.com/ Patty’s Billing Services, Inc. P.O. Box 2314 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-5991 Straightline Processing 2215 Hassell Place Charlotte NC 28209 704-491-1213 https://www.StraightlineProcessing. com BUILDERS, HOME IMPROVEMENT & UTILITIES

Boone Heating and Air Conditioning 164 Mr. Bish Blvd.

Boone NC 28607 828-268-1125 www.booneheatingandair.com/ Dianne Davant & Associates 5111 Hwy. 105 S Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9887 www.davant-interiors.com/ Hunter’s Tree Service, Inc. 1731 Beech Mountain Road Elk Park NC 28622 828-733-3320 www.hunterstreeserviceinc.com Highland Mapping, Inc. 395 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-7720 www.highlandmapping.com/ Isley Construction Co, Inc. 4236 Linville Falls Hwy Newland NC 28657 828-898-7544 www.isleyconstruction. homesandland.com/ J.A.C.K.S. Glass and Mirror 65 Orchard Lane Banner Elk NC 28604 828-733-9600 www.jacksglassnc.com/

A.T.T.I.C. Design, LLC 200 Park Ave., Suite B Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-8244 Atticdesign.net

Mountain Construction Enterprises 1345 Poplar Grove Rd. South Boone NC 28607 828-963-8090 www.mountainconstruction.com/

Avery Heating and Air Conditioning 1600 Linville Falls Highway Linville NC 28646 828-733-5842 https://www.averyheating.com/

Mountain Craft Builders PO Box 412 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-0013 https://www. mountaincraftbuilders.com

Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. 1373 Elk Park Hwy Newland NC 28657 828-733-0159 www.mountainelectric.com/ New Lifestyles Carpet One Floor & Home 2862 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-528-4013 www.newlifestylescarpet1bannerelk. com/ Phil’s Heating & Air 1800 Miles Field Rd. Elk Park NC 28622 423-552-6938 philsheatingandair.com Sky House L.L.C. 2874 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-3717 https://www.skyhousecompany.com/ Skyline Membership Corporation 16 High Country Square Hwy 184 Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-1350 skybest.com/ VPC Builders 2059 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk NC 28604 828-295-0707 https://www.vpcbuilders.com Water Quality Lab and Operations, Inc. 1522 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6277 www.wqlabs.com Well Doctor, LLC P.O. Box 1420 Mount Pleasant, NC 28124 704-909-9258 www.welldoctor.biz CHURCHES Banner Elk Presbyterian Church 420 College Dr. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5406 bannerelkpresbyterian.org/ CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Banner Elk United Methodist Church 486 College Dr. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-974-3699 bannerelkumc.org/ CLEANING & RESTORATION SERVICES Highland Pro Clean, Inc. 136 Asa St. Newland NC 28657 828-733-5089 www.highlandproclean.com Marcus’ Cleaning Service LLC 518 Cole Hollow Rd. Newland NC 28657 828-733-3093 www.marcuscleaning.com/ HEALTH & FITNESS Adorned Aesthetics, PLLC 465 N Old-181, Newland NC 828-964-4610 https://linktr.ee/adornedaesthetics AMOREM (Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.) (828) 754-0101 https://www.amoremsupport.org/ Beech Mountain Club 114 Clubhouse Road Beech Mountain NC 28604 828-387-4208 https://beechmtn.club/ Dogwood Primary Care 3990 NC Highway 105 South, Suite 1 Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 www.dogwoodprimarycare.com High Country Caregivers 895 State Farm Rd, #400-B Boone NC 28607 828-832-6366 https://www.highcountrycaregivers. com/ Life Care Center of Banner Elk 185 Norwood Hollow Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5136 lifecarecenterofbannerelk.com/ Williams YMCA of Avery County 436 Hospital Drive Linville NC 28646 828-737-5500 ymcaavery.org/

LODGING Banner Elk Mountain Cabins P.O. Box 1981 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-387-1209 www.bannerelkmtncabins.com Best Western Mountain Lodge 1615 Tynecastle Hwy. Banner Elk NC 28604 828- 898-4571 www.bestwesternbannerelk.com Bluegreen Vacations Blue Ridge Village 3781 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9737 www.bluegreenvacations.com Carolina Cabin Rentals, Inc. 197 Old US Highway 321 Blowing Rock NC 28605 828-295-6000 www.carolinacabinrentals.com/ Cornerstone Cabins and Lodge of Banner Elk 64 Cornerstone Cir. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-3115 https://cornerstonerentals.com/ Little Main St. Inn & Suites 607 E. Main St. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6109 www.thelittlemainstreetinn.com/

MARKETING, PHOTOGRAPHY & WEB SERVICES Bramble Media & Marketing 336-981-7917 www.bramblemarketing.com Cynthia Viola Photography Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-3301 www.cynthiaviola.com/ Deckard & Company Brian Deckard 941-462-4546 https://highcountrydigitalmarketing. com/ Varsity Promo Group Samantha Warren 704-579-0314 https://varsitypromo.dcpromosite. com/ NONPROFITS AMOREM (Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.) (828) 754-0101 https://www.amoremsupport.org/ Avery County Chamber of Commerce 4501 Tynecastle Hwy., Suite #14 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5605 https://averycounty.com/

The Azalea Inn 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-9528 https://theazaleainnbb.com/

Avery County Habitat for Humanity 2170 Millers Gap Hwy Newland NC 28657 828-733-1909 www.averycohfh.org/

The Old Greer House 1688 Balm Hwy. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-2843 https://www.theoldgreerhouse.com/

Avery Humane Society 279 New Vale Road Newland NC 28657 828-733-2333 https://www.averyhumane.org/

The Lodge at River Run 2981 Banner Elk Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 260-1352 https://thelodgeatriverrun.com/

Banner Elk Garden Club P.O. Box 248 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-4323

White Wolf Lodge & Holy Smokes BBQ 3363 Beech Mountain Pkwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-387-4200 www.whitewolflodge.org

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Banner Elk Presbyterian Church 420 College Dr Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5406 bannerelkpresbyterian.org/

Banner Elk United Methodist Church 486 College Dr. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-974-3699 bannerelkumc.org/

Holston Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center 6993 Hickory Nut Gap Rd Banner Elk NC 28604 844-465-7866 www.HolstonCenter.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC in Avery County PO Box 82 Spruce Pine NC 28777 828-518-0099 https://www.bbbswnc.org/

Hospitality House of Northwest North Carolina 338 Brook Hollow Rd. Boone NC 28607 828-264-1237 www.hospitalityhouseofboone.org/

Blue Ridge Advocacy Center PO Box 2171 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-386-1116 www.appalachianmediation.com

Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk P.O. Box 2321 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9044 https://bannerelkkiwanis.org/

Ensemble Stage 182 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-414-1844 www.ensemblestage.com/

Lees-McRae College 191 Main St. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5241 www.lmc.edu/

Feeding Avery Families 500 Pineola St. Newland NC 28657 828-783-8506 www.feedingaveryfamilies.org/

Mayland Community College 785 Cranberry St Newland NC 28657 828-733-5883 www.mayland.edu/

FORUM at Lees-McRae College P.O. Box 649 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-8748 https://www.lmc.edu/community/ forum.htm

OASIS, Inc. 225 Birch Street, Boone NC 28607 828-264-1532 www.oasisinc.org

Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation 2033 Blowing Rock Hwy. Linville NC 28646 828-733-2013 www.grandfather.com/ High Country Breast Cancer Foundation P.O. Box 1029 Blowing Rock, NC 28607 614-928-6544 highcountrybreastcancerfoundation. org/ High Country Caregivers 895 State Farm Rd, #400-B Boone NC 28607 828-832-6366 https://www.highcountrycaregivers. com/

Sugar Mountain Tourism Development Authority (TDA) 251 Dick Trundy Lane Sugar Mountain NC 28604 828-898-9292 https://seesugar.com/ The Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation/Banner House Museum 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-783-8506 www.bannerhousemuseum.org Town of Banner Elk 200 Park Ave. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5398 www.townofbannerelk.org Town of Banner Elk TDA 704-466-3744 https://www.bannerelk.com/ CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 Mountain Times Publications

DIANNE DAVANT & ASSOCIATES EXCELLENCE BY DESIGN SINCE 1979

DIANNE DAVANT MOFFITT, ASID MARGARET HANDLEY, ASID PAMELA MCKAY, ASID PRISCILLA HYATT COUNCILL, ASID BANNER ELK, NORTH CAROLINA 828.963.7500 STUART, FLORIDA 772.781.1400 WWW.DAVANT-INTERIORS.COM

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Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Town of Seven Devils TDA 157 Seven Devils Road Seven Devils, NC 28604 828-963-5343 Sevendevils.net WAMY Community Action 723 Cranberry Street Newland NC 28657 (828)264-2421 https://wamycommunityaction.org/ Williams YMCA of Avery County 436 Hospital Drive Linville NC 28646 828-737-5500 ymcaavery.org/ REAL ESTATE Banner Elk Realty 161 Silver Springs Drive, Suite #2 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9756 www.bannerelkrealty.com Beech Mountain Club 114 Clubhouse Road

Beech Mountain NC 28604 828-387-4208 https://beechmtn.club/ Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals 2464 US Highway 421 South Boone NC 28607 800-237-7975 https://www.blueridgerentals.com/ Blue Ridge Realty and Investments 110 Main St, Banner Elk NC 28604 828-737-3100 blueridgerealty.net/ Carolina Cabin Rentals, Inc. 197 Old US Highway 321 Blowing Rock NC 28605 828-295-6000 www.carolinacabinrentals.com/ Dereka’s Sugar Mountain Realty, Inc. 106 Sugar Mountain Dr. Sugar Mtn, NC 28604 800-545-9475 www.staysugar.com/

Eagles Nest Realty, LLC 51 Eagles Nest Trail Banner Elk, NC 28604 800-770-9311 eaglesnestatbannerelk.com/ Elk River Property Owners Association, Inc. 643 Banner Elk Hwy. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9791 www.elkriverpoa.com/ Elk River Realty, Inc. 539 Banner Elk Hwy. Banner Elk NC 28604, 828-898-9777 www.elkriverclub.com/ Engel & Volkers Banner Elk 610 Banner Elk Highway Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-3808 bannerelk.evusa.com/en/ Harry Berry Realty, Inc. 3812 Cleveland Street Hollywood FL 33021 954-816-6521 www.harryberryrealty.com/ Mountain Retreats Realty P.O. Box 2437 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6325 www.ncmountainretreats.com/ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty 3990 US Hwy 105 South, #3 Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-5022 www.premiersothebysrealty.com/ Reserve II at Sugar Mountain HOA PO Box 1166 Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 704-458-8611 Silver Springs Farms, LLC 600 Old Turnpike Rd. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-6896 https://www.bexrealty.com/NorthCarolina/Banner-Elk/Silver-SpringsFarm/ Sugar Mountain Ski and Country Club HOA, Inc. 100 Sugar Ski Dr. Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-9784 www.sugarmountain.com

8 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

Sugartop Resort Condominium Association 303 Sugar Top Dr. Sugar Mountain NC 28604 828-898-5226 www.sugartop.com/ The Farm at Banner Elk Dobbins Rd./Farm Loop Rd Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-4416 www.thefarmatbannerelk.com/ The Summit Group of the Carolinas 415 Shawneehaw AveBanner Elk NC 28604, US 828-898-3500 www.summitgrouprealestate.com RESTAURANTS, BREWERIES, AND WINERIES Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery 324 Shawneehaw Ave S Highway 184 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-4040 www.bannerelkcafe.com Banner Elk Winery & Villa 60 Deer Run Lane Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9090 www.bannerelkwinery.com Bayou Smokehouse and Grill/ Bayou Store 130 Main St. E. Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-8952 https://www.facebook.com/ BayouSmokehouse/ BE Scooped 144 Azalea Circle SE Banner Elk NC 28604 828-504-0684 https://www.bescooped.com Carolina Barbeque 500 Pineola St Newland NC 28657 828-737-0700 www.carolinabbqnewland.com/ Chef ’s Table 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 898-5214 https://bannerelkvillage.com/chefstable/

Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria, Inc. 402 Beech Mountain Pkwy Beech Mountain NC 28604 828-387-4000 https://www.famousbrickoven.com/ Genuine Foods 844-436-3663 https://www.genuinecampusdining. com/ Highland’s Prohibition Kitchen 151 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 Las Banderas 488 Main St W Banner Elk NC 28604, US (828) 898-4343 Prime 21 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 898-2100 Primo 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 (828) 898-5214 Reid’s Cafe and Catering Co. 4004 Highway 105 S. Ste.8 Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-9200 www.reidscafeandcatering.com Sips Soda Shop 828-467-1016 facebook.com/sipssodashop.nc Sorrento’s Italian Bistro 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5214 bannerelkvillage.com/ Sorrento’s Italian Bistro 140 Azalea Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5214 bannerelkvillage.com/ The Barn at Cornerstone 64 Cornerstone Circle Banner Elk NC 28604 828-260-1125 https://www.thebarnatcornerstone. com/

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Mountain Times Publications

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DECEMBER 2023 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN •

9

Banner Elk BY THE NUMBERS

The following is a list of important area phone numbers for your convenience: Fire, Rescue, Police and Emergency: 911

Avery County Sheriff ’s Office: (828) 733-2071

Town of Banner Elk/Banner Elk Town Hall: (828) 898-5398

Avery County Schools: (828) 733-6006

Avery County Chamber of Commerce: (828) 898-5605

Cannon Memorial Hospital: (828) 737-7000

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce: (828) 898-8395 The Avery Journal Times newspaper: (828) 733-2448 Banner House Museum: (828) 898-3634 Banner Elk Police Department : (828) 898-4300

Mountain Electric Cooperative: (828) 733-0159 Williams YMCA of Avery County: (828) 737-5500 Beech Mountain Resort: (828) 387-2011

Banner Elk Fire Department: (828) 898-4623

Beech Mountain Police Department: (828) 387-2342

Banner Elk Exxon: (828) 898-5210

Beech Mountain Fire Department: (828) 387-4612

Lees-McRae College: (828) 898-5241

Sugar Mountain Resort: (828) 898-4521

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY White Wolf Lodge & Holy Smokes BBQ 3363 Beech Mountain Pkwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-387-4200 www.whitewolflodge.org

828-260-5389 www.beartistsgallery.com/

Williams Deli & Bakery 100 High Country Square, Suite 32 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-2300 Williamsdeliandbakery.com

Callista Flower Co. Flowers, Home Goods & Gifts 441 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-742-1818 https://www.callistaflowerco.com/

RETAIL SHOPS Avery County Habitat for Humanity 2170 Millers Gap Hwy Newland NC 28657 828-733-1909 www.averycohfh.org/ Banner Elk Soap & Candle Co. 3221 Tynecastle Hwy. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-4006 https://bannerelksoapcandleco.com/ BE Artists Gallery 185 Azalea Cir SE Banner Elk NC 28604, US

BJ’s Resort Wear 145 Main St Banner Elk NC 28604, US 828-898-4229

DeWoolfson Down 9452 NC Hwy 105 S Banner Elk NC 28604 828-963-4147 www.dewoolfsonlinens.com Hardin Fine Jewelry 920 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-4653 www.hardinfinejewelry.com/ Mountaineer Garden Center 1735 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5219

10 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

mountaineergardencenter.com/ My Best Friend’s Barkery 176 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5625 www.mybestfriendsbarkery.com/ Roan Mountain Tire Express 8379 Hwy 19 E Roan Mountain TN 37687 (423) 630-8473 Ross Chrysler Jeep Dodge 2282 Hwy 105 South Boone NC 28607 828-264-2875 rossauto.com Sassy Curated Consignment & Gifts 8830 NC Hwy 105 South Boone NC 28607 828-967-0052 https://sassyconsignments.com/ The Art Cellar Gallery 920 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-5175 www.artcellargallery.com/

The Sign Shop P.O. Box 426 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-4437 The Twisted Twig Antiques and Accents 2780 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk NC 28604 619-964-0038 www.thetwistedtwigantiques.com/ Wraps Box & Ship 2331 Tynecastle Hwy #184 Banner Elk NC 28604 828-898-9696 INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Aspbury, Jenny Benbasat, Albert & Joan Berns, Ted Silver & Carol Brewer, Sara Brubaker, Mary Jo and Dan Coutts, David & Linda Dolab, Sharilynn & Charles Hahn, Bud & Silva Hansen, Susan Hendrix, Dan & Elizabeth Holt, Brenda Krege, Roy & Marion

Lott, Tommy & Sherry Lyerly, Brenda McLendon, Jerry & Kathleen McNamee, Laura Newman, Dick & Joyce O’Connell, Paul & Susie Olan, Meredith and Tony Ormond, Linda & Gene Petcoff, Thomas & Sally Privatte-Robinson, Sandra Ramo, Neil & Marilyn Randolph, Tamara Reynolds, Roy & Cathy Schaffel, Nancy Schaffer, Carol Seitz, William & Carol Simmons, Nancy & Stephen Snow, Roseanne Solomon, Sandy Finci Soyars, David & File, Mark Steele, Elizabeth Swinkola, Jim & Ann Tate, David L. Testani, Bob & Sandy Watts, Mary Williams, John & Linda Zimmer, Larry & Chris

Mountain Times Publications

Meet the Municipality of BANNER ELK

By Christian Gardner

T

provides certain restrictions that Lyerly, the council, planning board and zoning commission must work with. While infrastructure offers unique potential and obstacles, a natural balance is also sought after.

“We want to keep Banner Elk with our own personality,” said Lyerly.

Zoning and ordinances are also viewed as crucial to the town in order to maintain that personality and keep enough greenspace.

Banner Elk offers an esoteric backdrop for Avery County and has pride in its personable presentation. The town leaders and its residents have a vision for the area and wish to keep striving toward its goals.

“Banner Elk has had a master plan for many years. One of the flagships of that plan is the signature brick sidewalks that make our town so walkable, as well as it gives a really classy look,” Lyerly explained. “An extra bonus with the brick sidewalks is that anyone who wants to preserve their name

he Town of Banner Elk has been a staple of Avery County for quite some time, from being one of the first established towns in the County to a huge economic driver being a major tourist spot in the state. With developmental, infrastructure and commerce enhancements, Banner Elk remains one of the preeminent command posts of not only the county but also Western North Carolina.

Thousands of people visit Banner Elk every year, and the town has earned recognition nationwide.

Brenda Lyerly was elected as mayor in 2012 and has further cultivated the culture and ideals of the mountain hamlet town.

“I appreciate more every day how special this town is. It takes all of us to make the town into what it is today, including Council members, town manager, office support, maintenance crew, police department, and Banner Elk volunteers and citizens,” Lyerly said.

“Also, the Banner Elk Fire Department is striving to Ranked among the Top 50 Propane make updates and build their membership. They Retailers and Distributors nationwide are so ambitious that they have future plans for a new since 2006. fire station closer to Town Hall.”

Proudly serving the High Country area.

Infrastructure has played a vital role in Consider making us your both the growth and the challenges of Banner Elk. primary propane provider today.

The town has recently updated its sewer system and is in the process of seeking a location for a new well. There currently exists plenty of well water, but Banner Elk wishes to be prepped and anticipates population growth. Although Call Now! the contemporary (423) 727-0005 infrastructure is adequate and could handle even www.marshpet.com more population due to the accommodation 4441 US-421, of visitors, the historic Mountain City, TN 37683 overlay of the town Mountain Times Publications

Photo by Jamie Shell

The Town of Banner Elk is governed by a town council that meets monthly at the town hall. or their pet’s name or make a memorial can purchase a brick, have it inscribed and request a spot in town for the brick to be placed. Our winter snowflakes that don each streetlight in town are a hit as well.”

Culture, heritage and charisma also land squarely on the shoulders of Banner Elk CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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11

Find that perfect item while shopping in BANNER ELK

By Christian Gardner

B

anner Elk is home to many great shops and businesses. Whether you’re looking for homemade goods, woodwork decor or fresh produce, you’re sure to find those items and more right here in Banner Elk. Here are a few of the places well worth the time of stopping in to visit and browse while in town.

ANTIQUES AND CONSIGNMENT Those Were the Days 3440 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-5505 Those Were the Days is a 4,000-square-foot antique mall with plenty of items to match all kinds of niche interests or collections. The mall has a collection of records, antique toys, vintage glassware, furniture, jewelry and more.

The Twisted Twig Antiques and Accents 100 High Country Sq. (619) 964-0038 Boasting a stock of one-of-a-kind pieces. The Twisted Twig is an antique and accent store that sells both vintage items and newer gifts and decor.

With an extensive and eclectic lamp collection and decades-old pieces of furniture, a visit to this store is the perfect way to add some vintage spice to your home.

Banner Elk Consignment Cottage (828) 898-5733 Banner Elk Consignment Cottage offers everything from statement pieces such as furniture and artwork to smaller pieces such as cutlery and figurines.

When looking for unique pieces to decorate your mountain home, stop by the cottage to see what they offer.

CLOTHING Discounted Name Brands

AJT file photo

Numerous shops are within walking distance in the heart of downtown Banner Elk.

2989 Tynecastle Hwy unit 2, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 783-9266 If you are looking for a great deal, look no further than Discounted Name Brands. They have lots of new, namebrand items for 30%-60% off!

BJ’s Resort Wear 145 Main St. W (828) 898-4229 BJ’s Resort Wear offers high-end women’s clothing to ensure that you’re up-to-date with the latest trends. You can expect friendly staff and good customer service from this boutique that has been serving the Banner Elk area for more than 30 years.

The Dande Lion 4501 Tynecastle Hwv. #12 (828) 898-3566 If you’re looking for the perfect outfit, complete with shoes and accessories, look no further than The Dande Lion.

12 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

This boutique specializes in personal shopping and has a stock that pairs with a variety of aesthetics.

Banner Elk Shirt Company 3175 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-4007 If you’re visiting and looking for a memento of your time in the beautiful town of Banner Elk. Banner Elk Shirt Company has styles for every season.

Every member of the family can grab a personalized Woolly Worm Festival shirt or a gift for a loved one from this long-standing family business.

JEWELRY Hardin Fine Jewelry 920 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-4653 Hardin Fine Jewelry sells one-of-akind pieces for every occasion. Their stock features pieces crafted from artisans from around the world, with a

variety of gems and diamonds to choose from.

SPECIALTY FOODS Avery County Farmers Market 185 Azalea Cir. SE Avery County Farmers Market is a great seasonal hub for organic and locally grown produce, jams, jellies, honey, eggs and more. Open weekly at the Historic Banner Elk School throughout the season, it’s a wonderful chance to explore the High Country’s delicious, homegrown and homemade food.

Bayou General Store 130 Main St. E (828) 898-8952 Local goods and gourmet foods abound at the Bayou General Store.

Stop by to check out their selection of CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE Mountain Times Publications

AJT file photo

Bayou Smokehouse and Grill boasts its own general store where discriminating shoppers can find and purchase unique and specialty items.

gifts, fine wines and local brews as well.

Erick’s Cheese and Wine 4004 NC-105 #10 (828) 898-9424 If you’re looking to buy a unique gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself, browse Erick’s Cheese and Wine for a variety of fine wines and cheeses from around the world.

Banner Elk Olive Oil and Balsamics 155 Banner Rd. SW (828) 898-4441 Banner Elk Olive Oil and Balsamic has everything you need to take your cooking to the next level. With a variety of imported olive oils, vinegars, herb mixes, ceramics and more, their products are sure to impress.

HOME AND GARDEN Banner Elk Soap & Candle Co. 3221 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-4006 Locally made candles, soaps, bath bombs and mugs are just a few great gift ideas from Banner Elk Soap and Candle Co. Whether it’s for you or for a friend, Banner Elk Soap and Candle Co. has a scent for everyone.

Mountain Times Publications

Mountaineer Garden Center Florist and Greenhouses 1757 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-5219 When you’re looking to liven up your yard or home in the spring, step by Mountaineer Garden Center Florist and Greenhouses. Choose your favorites from a large selection of shrubs, flowers, houseplants, soil and more.

Secret Garden Nursery 1947 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 387-7623 Marked by the colorful Adirondack chairs out front, Secret Garden Nursery is an essential visit for those with green thumbs. Offering vibrant flowers, succulents, houseplants and pumpkins and gourds seasonally, they have all you need to brighten up your mountain home.

CREATIVE INTERIORS

4501 Tynecastle Hwy., Unit 4 (828) 898-9636 If you’ve got the itch to redecorate.

Creative Interiors has your back. As an interior design firm and retail shop, the storefront offers furniture, accessories, gifts and other home goods.

Photo courtesy My Best Friend’s Barkery

Dog treats on display in the bakery case at My Best Friend’s Barkery.

Rustik by Underwood 2710 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-9663 Rustik by Underwood sells handcrafted natural wood furniture perfect for the statement piece you’ve been looking for. They can design custom tables, benches and other furniture to fit any lifestyle and taste.

Avery Knifeworks 2780 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 850-9250 Locally owned and operated, each blade from Avery Knifeworks is handmade. The Banner Elk showroom has knives of various sizes and purposes, handmade jewelry, charcuterie boards, cutting boards, leather wallets and more.

PETS My Best Friend’s Barkery 176 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-5625

Don’t forget your four legged friends while shopping. My Best Friend’s Barkery has something for every pet, including food, treats, toys, beds and other products for cats and dogs.

SKIING AND OUTDOORS OUTFITTERS Alpine Ski Center 3150 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-9701 Alpineskicenter.com Edge of the World 394 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-9550 Edgeoworld.com Extreme Snowboard and Skis 3071 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-7669 www.extremenc.com Ski Country Sports 3149 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-9786 www.skicountrysports.com

DECEMBER 2023 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN •

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

leadership, to which residents and leaders alike wish to uphold the inherent values of the arts. Many components of the town reach a cultural level unique to the county and help make Banner Elk a noticeable region.

“The biggest endeavor in the past several years for Banner Elk is the purchase from the county of the Historic Banner Elk Elementary School in the heart of Banner Elk, and then determining what it should be and how to make it happen,” Lyerly said.

The rock school building was built in 1938-1939 by the WPA. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017. With lots of community effort, the rock schoolhouse was transformed into the Cultural Arts Center.

It now houses the BE Artists Gallery, a Book Exchange, Carolina Life Magazine’s corporate office, The Community Yoga Studio, the Buckhead Photography Studio, Common Grounds and the Ensemble Stage.

Ensemble Stage is a 99-seat theater space converted from the old school auditorium.

Culture is very important to Banner Elk

with respect to the arts center, Lees-McRae College, historic buildings and theatrical performances.

“We have a lot of artists in the area. It helps draw people into town,” Lyerly noted.

One specific goal of Banner Elk that the mayor outlined is the ambition to diversify the businesses in town which may be on the horizon with different merchants in play.

“Banner Elk is blessed with many fabulous restaurants, but we are short on shopping opportunities. We do have several opportunities for art purchases, and we have a couple of gift shops. We would love to see more of a variety,” Lyerly stated.

One of the longstanding burdens of interest for residents of Banner Elk is the need for workforce housing, much like other towns in the county, and the market of both rental and secondary homes. Lyerly and town personnel are aware of the potential hindrance and are actively working toward ideas and solutions.

“The biggest concern from our citizens these days seems to be the huge influx of home buyers, developers and visitors,” she said. “The sheer volume of people in

town and on our two-lane roads has been a challenge in all seasons. There was a lull in the past where merchants and restaurant personnel could catch their breath and make repairs and updates.

There are no such lulls these days.”

While noted as a residential concern, Lyerly also added that, “The secondary home market people have AJT file photo been generous and Corner on Main is a greenspace in the heart of downtown that was helpful with so many completed and dedicated in the summer of 2017. things.”

There exists a level Banner Elk is famous for its hosting of of complexity and substantial events such as the Woolly Worm unique attributes to Banner Elk which are Festival each October, the annual Fourth specific to the town. A notion of balance of July Parade and Party in the Park, its will continuously be addressed by town Summer Concerts in the Park, as well as its leadership and acted upon for the best interest of Banner Elk. multiple Art on the Greene events.

Escape. Unwind. Indulge.

WINERIES • BREWERIES • CASUAL & FINE DINING GALLERIES • BOUTIQUES • THEATER • COZY LODGING 14 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

BannerElk.com Mountain Times Publications

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Mountain Times Publications

• Parties of all sizes • In-home catering • Fully insured and licensed • Largest mobile kitchen in the High Country

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DECEMBER 2023 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN •

15

SIP AND BREW with Banner Elk’s local drink offerings

By Christian Gardner

W

hether you’re looking for a spot to enjoy an adult beverage or a spot to simply sit back and enjoy some fellowship, visitors, and locals have many options right here in Banner Elk. Banner Elk’s current facilities have something to please everyone, from casual drinkers wanting an afternoon away from home to connoisseurs looking for a full-blown experience.

KETTELL BEERWORKS Purchased by Mark and Yumiko Ralston in 2017, Kettell Beerworks is a family-operated business that offers a family-friendly atmosphere. The name “Kettell” itself is a family name, originally meaning kettle or cauldron. Kettell Beerworks categorizes their beers in tiers.

First Tier beers are for easy drinking, being the lowest on the scale in alcohol by volume and international bitterness units. Roll cast, a German Kolsch-style ale; Vonderbier, a contemporary Munichstyle lager; Copper Elk, an American amber ale; and Velvet Panda, an oatmeal stout, are the First Tier beers. Second Tier beers are slightly higher in ABV and IBUs. These include the Supernova IPA, a low-bitterness fruity brew, and Nymphomaniac, a Belgian-style ale. Last are the Third Tier Beers, which have the highest ABV and offer unique, bold flavors. Crabby Louie, an imperial IPA, and The Speak Easy, a Bourbon barrelaged Baltic Porter, fall into this category.

Additionally, Kettell Beerworks offers seasonal ales, including Oktoberfest, a traditional, full-bodied Marzen lager, and Alpine Rush, a crisp winter ale.

Kettell Beerworks is located at 567 Main St. E. in Banner Elk. The taproom is open from noon to 8 p.m. on Wednesday through Saturday. For more information, call (828) 898-8677 or visit https://

AJT file photo

A selection of some of the award-winning wines at Banner Elk Winery.

kettellbeerworks.com/.

BANNER ELK WINERY In 2005, Banner Elk Winery and Villa became the first commercial winery to open in Avery County. Founded by Angelo Accetturo and Richard Wolfe, the winery is located on a property that used to be a blueberry farm. Wolfe, the original winemaker, passed away in March 2022.

Even after he left the position of head winemaker, he would come around often, said Emily Billings, tasting room manager at the winery. Wolfe is a huge part of their history and the entire staff misses him dearly, she said.

The winery offers a blueberry wine to pay tribute to the property’s original use, but they offer more familiar varietals as well, including marechal foch, seyval blanc, cabernet sauvignon, and golden muscat. Most of their stock is dry wines, particularly reds, and they keep four flavors of sangria year-round. In the summertime, Banner Elk Winery serves its apple orange cinnamon sangria chilled

16 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

and in the winter they serve it warm as a mulled wine. Made with grapes from their vineyard as well as locally-sourced grapes, Banner Elk Winery has produced many award-winning wines, from the state level to the international level. Along with wine tastings, patrons of Banner Elk Winery and Villa can enjoy a glass of wine indoors or outdoors at its covered seating area, the fire pit, or one of the gazebos around the pond that’s on the property.

There’s live music every weekend, afterhours events with the wine club, and the winery also offers yoga before opening.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa is located at 60 Deer Run and is open from noon to 6 p.m. every day except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. To learn more, call (828) 260-1790 or visit http://www.bannerelkwinery.com/.

GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY A family-owned business, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery’s history is just as rich as the drinks it offers. Through the

Tatum family’s passion for all parts of the process, from working in the vineyard to making the wine to running the business, the winery has expanded into a staple of the community.

There’s plenty to do at the winery, from the tasting room, which is open daily during regular hours. There’s live music at the winery Thursday through Sunday, and a food truck is set up there Friday through Sunday. All service is outdoors and the establishment is dog-friendly. At any given time, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery offer anywhere between 25 and 30 different wines. These include dry whites and roses, dry reds, sweet wines, bubbles, specials, and on-tap wines. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery located at 225 Vineyard Lane is open from noon to 6 pm. Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The establishment is closed on Tuesdays from December 1 to May 15.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE Mountain Times Publications

Photo courtesy Kettell Beerworks

AJT file photo

Grandfather Winery and Vineyard offers a wide variety of wines for all types of wine lovers.

Patrons can view the brewhouse from the taproom through the glass while enjoying the drink and atmosphere at Kettell Beerworks in Banner Elk.

Voted best pet supply store in Avery County!

Apparel, Accessories, Collars & Leashes Frozen Raw & Freeze Dried Foods High Quality Dog & Cat Food

176 Shawneehaw Ave. 828-898-5625 mybestfriendsbarkery.com Mon - Sat 10 - 6 Sun - Closed

Homemade Dog Treats & USA Sourced Treats Toys for Training & Play Holistic Supplements DIY Pet Wash

Tuesday 12-4pm; Wed-Sat 10am-5pm 828-898-4441 | www.beoliveoil.com Mountain Times Publications

DECEMBER 2023 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN •

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LMC began offering degree completion programs in early 2000s founding, Lees-McRae continues the vision of the Rev. Tufts, inspiring students ANNER ELK — Lees-McRae of the Southern Appalachian region and College, a private, four-year, beyond. The College extends educational co-ed residential institution opportunities and service to diverse affiliated with populations and the Presbyterian continues to fulfill Church, is located its motto — “In the in the mountains, Mountains, Of the just over 3,700 feet Mountains, For the above sea level. It Mountains.” started out as an The Bobcats offer all-female high athletic scholarships school in 1889 and and play NCAA was named after Division II sports Suzanna Lees and in the Conference Elisabeth McRae. Carolinas.

The school became LMC has an Lees-McRae AJT file photo address at 191 Main Institute in 1907.

Lees-McRae Bobcats athletics compete in St. W in Banner In 1927, a fire Conference Carolinas.

Elk and the South consumed the Campus is at 158 Plumtree buildings, Grandfather Home. and the unit moved to Banner Elk, Lees-McRae College offers information according to the college’s website. Leessessions and campus tours six or seven McRae Institute became Lees-McRae days a week for prospective students College in 1931, gradually eliminating and their families. Visitors can tour the the high school department to form campus, hear from current students, and an accredited, coeducational junior get questions answered. college. In 1987, the Board of Trustees In Spring of 2022, Lees-McRae of Lees-McRae College voted to seek College President Lee King announced senior college status. In June of 1990, the the institution received a $30 million Commission on Colleges of the Southern Community Facilities Direct Loan from Association of Colleges and Schools United States Department of Agriculture granted Lees-McRae status as a senior Rural Development for campus (four-year) college. preservation and development at a special To complement its four-year academic ceremony on April 1. programs, Lees-McRae began offering The college implemented the loan degree completion programs in the to renovate buildings on campus. early 2000s. The 2+2 programs enable Renovations are under way on three students with existing associate degrees historic buildings and include installation to complete their education at the of fire suppression sprinklers, making baccalaureate level. The institution the buildings Americans with Disabilities serves these nontraditional learners at Code compliant, updating the wiring off-campus sites and through online systems to bring them to current electrical learning. In 2018, the college added its code and converting Tennessee and first graduate program—a Master of Arts Virginia resident halls into living-learning in Teaching in Secondary Education.

More than a hundred years after its communities for first-year students.

By Jerry Snow

B

18 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

Photo courtesy Lees-McRae College

The campus at Lees-McRae College included a student body of 873 in 2022, according to www.lmc.edu.

Photo courtesy LMC

Mountain Day of Service is a way Lees-McRae College students, staff and faculty give back to the community.

Group tours for high schools and community organizations may also be scheduled. LMC does limit these to one group per day, so interested parties should contact LMC as soon as possible if interested. With any questions, contact Director of Events and Campus Visitation McLean Bell at bellm@lmc.edu or (828) 898-8729.

Dr. Herbert L. King, Jr. has been the school’s president since 2018.

LMC will be hosting an Open House on March 23, 2024, and April 20, 2024; find out details at https://www.lmc.edu/ admissions/visit/index.htm.

To learn more about Lees-McRae College, go online to https://www.lmc. edu.

Mountain Times Publications

What’s cooking in Banner Elk? Area offers varied delicious dining options

B

anner Elk offers full-time residents, guests and visitors to the area many options and a wide array of cuisines for any taste or craving.

Visitors to the area and locals don’t have to look very far to find their next favorite dining experience. Whether they are looking for a fine dining restaurant or somewhere that offers a delicious burger, there is something for everyone around the Banner Elk area.

ARTISANAL 1290 Dobbins Rd. (828) 898-5395 Artisanal offers a well rounded and fine dining experience. Reservations are required and are made by calling the restaurant. A fixed price of $95 per guest includes upscale options such as yellowfin tuna tartare, duck two ways and bone-in

Mountain Times Publications

kurobuta pork chop, with the experience such to impress.

BANNER ELK CAFE AND LODGE 324 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-4040 Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge’s large menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads, along with their pastas and pizza are sure to satisfy any craving that you are in the mood for. Additionally, the Cafe does offer breakfast daily until 11 a.m. The Cafe also serves specialty coffee, espresso, and smoothies, along with craft beer, wines and cocktails.

BARRA SPORTS BAR 140 Azalea Cir SE (828) 898-7727 CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Photo submitted

Pedalin’ Pig is one of several restaurants serving hungry patrons in the greater Banner Elk area.

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Barra Sports Bar is the place to cheer on your favorite team, enjoy a cold one and hang out with friends. The sports bar offers the main bar, a karaoke lounge, a mini stage, a tequila bar, and pool room, along with an outdoor fire pit.

BAYOU SMOKEHOUSE AND GRILL 130 Main St. E (828) 898-8952 This Texas-Louisiana style restaurant and bar offers a wide variety of dishes for those wanting to try something that is a bit different than the typical local mountain cuisine. Bayou Smokehouse and Grill makes a gumbo, shrimp creole, along with many other Cajun stapes.

BELLA’S BREAKFAST 142 Main St E (828) 898-2594 Bella’s is in the heart of Banner Elk and is a local favorite. Bella’s serves everyone’s favorite must-haves for breakfast, such as pancakes, waffles, omelets and grits. It’s a small town dining experience, while their lunch menu includes burgers, hotdogs, sandwiches, french fries and much more.

BELLA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3585 Tynecastle Ewy (828) 898-9022 For those that are looking for an authentic Italian dining experience that includes delicious food that won’t break the bank, Bella’s Italian Restaurant is the place to go. Bella’s offers cuisine for lunch and dinner with a relaxed family friendly atmosphere.

BE SCOOPED 144 Azalea Cir. SE (828) 504-0684 BE Scooped is a family owned ice cream parlor located in the heart of downtown Banner Elk, which is perfect for those with a sweet tooth looking for a quick frozen treat. BE Scooped also has a food truck that serves its ice cream at events throughout the year.

BODEGAS KITCHEN AND WINE BAR 488 Main St. W

(828) 898-7773 Fred and Larry’s Bodegas Kitchen offers a variety of and Wine Bar specialty coffees offers dishes with and drinks, a Caribbean flare which is updated along with tapasoften and it style dining, which also includes makes it perfect seasonal specials. for a casual night Additionally, the AJT file photo coffee shop hosts out on town, date Stonewalls Restaurant is one of the High nights or family open mic nights dinners. Its unique Country’s premier steak houses and on Fridays and restaurants, and a favorite of locals and take on their rice Saturdays. visitors alike. bowls, tacos and LP ON MAIN sandwiches are 171 Main St E sure to satisfy those with a craving to try (828) 898-5656 something new.

Louisiana Purchase on Main offers a CAM RAHN BAY 110 High Country Square Authentic Japanese and Vietnamese cuisine meet at Cam Rahn Bay. If you’re in the mood for lettuce rolls, spring rolls, fried wontons, yakisoba or anything in between, make Cam Rahn your next destination.

CHEF’S TABLE AT SORRENTO’S 140 Azalea Cir. SE (828) 898-1940 Chef ’s Table offers a vibrant menu of American, Italian and Japanese dishes that are prepared by an award-winning chef and served in a casual but upscale atmosphere. The meals are prepared with local farm-fresh ingredients that are paired with regional wines, making it a dining experience that no one wants to miss out on.

CHINA HOUSE 3581 Tynecastle Hwy (828) 898-3533 When you are craving old-fashioned Chinese food, China House is your next stop. China House offers lo mein, fried rice, spring rolls, soups, dumplings, and crab rangoons with all of the works, just to name a few options.

FRED AND LARRY’S COFFEE SHOP 3591 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 367-2110

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made to order menu of North Carolina seafood, local meats and produce. With its unique ingredients such as lobster gravy, sweet potato crisps and pecan tarter, the restaurant provides a dining experience like no other.

LAS BANDERAS RESTAURANT 488 Main St. W (828) 898-4343 Recently opened at the intersection of Hwy. 194 and Beech Mountain Parkway, Las Banderas offers authentic, fresh, quick-served Mexican cuisine in the heart of Banner Elk. MOUNTAIN GROUNDS COFFEE AND TEA COMPANY 3990 NC-105 #10 (828) 783- 9069 Mountain Grounds features locally roasted Hatchet Coffee from Boone, breakfast and lunch made items that are made in-house, fresh baked pastries from Stick Boy Bread in Boone, selections from Shanti Elixirs Jun Tea in Asheville and Adagio loose leaf teas.

HIGHLANDER’S GRILL AND TAVERN 4527 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-9613 From enjoying a drink and watching the game with friends or going out for a date night, Highlander’s friendly and casual atmosphere is ready to impress.

Start with one one of the restaurant’s

appetizers, then dig into one of their many main course menu options.

THE PEDALIN’ PIG 4235 NC-105 (828) 898-7500 Open since 2014, The Pedalin’ Pig location in Banner Elk brings gourmet ingredients with a High Country flavor unique to the area. The menu has a variety of pork based dishes, but they don’t leave out dishes that include chicken, turkey, and vegetarian options.

REID’S CAFE AND CATERING 4004 NC-105 #8 (828) 898-9200 One of the landmarks of the High Country since it was established in 1999, Reid’s Cafe and Catering for decades has offered seasonal menus to ensure that their food is as fresh as possible. Reid’s also tries to avoid industrial grown and processed foods.

SORRENTO’S ITALIAN BISTRO 140 Azalea Cir. SE (828) 898-5214 Sorrento’s has been family run and operated in the Banner Elk area since 1983. Sorrento’s serves genuine Italian dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. The family takes great pride in the work that the restaurant does.

STONEWALLS RESTAURANT 344 Shawneehaw Ave S (828) 898-5550 Stonewalls has been locally owned and operated since 1985. Stonewall’s menu includes only the finest cuts of beef available, including rib eye, New York strip and filet mignon. Additionally Stonewall’s also serves fine wine, seafood and fine olive oils and balsamic.

VALLE DE BRAVO MEXICAN RESTAURANT 4501 Tynecastle Hwy. (828) 898-4949 Valle de Bravo has served the Banner Elk area for over a decade. With a large menu of Mexican cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Mountain Times Publications

Realtors - Banner Elk

home sales have slowed, but could take off again in 2024

By Jerry Snow

H

usband-and-wife realtors Derek and Terri Boyer can relate to why some of their clients are looking to relocate from one of the steamy states to the High Country of North Carolina. Derek and Terri met in college at the University of Central Florida in Orlando and were previously licensed to sell real estate in Florida. They now live in Beech Mountain and have been selling real estate in the Banner Elk area for about seven years through Mountain Life Realty, which is part of Keller Williams

Mountain Times Publications

High Country Realty. Terri said she and Derek “didn’t want to leave” when they first laid eyes on the Banner Elk area.

Terri said about 75% of their business is people looking to buy a second home or investment property in the mountains. Derek added that the real estate market in the area came to a “screeching halt” due to COVID in 2020.

“Initially COVID created a lot of uncertainty,” he said. “But from about mid-2020 through the end of 2022, it was the hottest I’ve seen the market since we’ve been here. When a lot of people realized they could work

Photo submitted

Realtors Terri and Derek Boyer met while they were both in college at the University of Central Florida. Terri and Derek relocated to the area about seven years ago.

remotely is when it really took off.

There were bidding wars and houses were flying off the shelf.”

The real estate market in Banner Elk

slowed down in 2023, in part due to the steady increases in interest rates, Derek CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

DECEMBER 2023 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN •

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said.

“They love the small town feel “There’s been a drastic response of Banner Elk,” Terri said, “and the to the increase in interest rates,” proximity of the hustle and bustle he said, “but sales are still in Boone.” happening.”

Derek said some buyers like that He said the home-for-sale the Banner Elk area gets snow, inventory in the area hovered but not “northeasterly-type snow around a two-month supply for a weather; you get a touch of all four couple years during the pandemic, seasons here.” but said there’s now about a fourDerek said he’s hearing the month supply.

Federal Reserve will make “Compared to those previous multiple cuts to the prime rate in years, we haven’t seen as much of 2024, and there’s a good chance a flurry of buyer activity this year,” it will have a positive impact on Terri explained. “We have about home sales. the same number of sales but “There have been reports, you’re not seeing that overheated Photo submitted alleged reports, that the Fed is competition. There’s buyers out Mountain Life Realty assists clients with purchasing homes and property in Banner Elk and surrounding planning to decrease interest rates there but they aren’t looking like areas. up to six times in 2024,” he said. crazy, like they were in previous “The average 30-year fixed rate “Climate is a big reason people want the summers.

That’s a big, big draw for years.” now is in the 7’s; next year rates could to move here,” Derek said. “We get a people.”

Terri said they are currently working be in the five- or six-percent range. If lot from Florida from people who are Terri said some buyers like being with a couple which is looking to move that happens, we may feel a surge again tired of the heat. A lot of questions we “smack dab in the middle of ” ski from Texas and they recently helped a couple relocate from New York. get are about what the weather is like in country. like we did after COVID.”

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22 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

Mountain Times Publications

Civic organizations make positive impact in Banner Elk, Avery County communities

By Jaren Gragg

B

anner Elk and the surrounding area is well known for a lot of things, but one of the most wellknown, long-standing and prevalent reputations is that the High Country boasts numerous charitable groups. For those looking to be a part of a civic group in the area, both the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk and Avery County Rotary Club are groups that do good across a wide section and many segments of the local community.

KIWANIS CLUB OF BANNER ELK Kiwanis is an active organization that strives to serve children and adults around the area. Meeting on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 11:45 a.m., Kiwanians gather in the Miller Commons on the campus of LeesMcRae College. Any individuals who are interested are welcome to join the club for lunch. The group hosts speakers and community stakeholders from numerous organizations and businesses during their meetings, and the club is a generous benefactor to area schools and nonprofit organizations through its myriad fundraisers occurring throughout the year.

To learn more about the group or to fill out a membership application, visit www. bannerelkkkiwanis.org.

AVERY COUNTY ROTARY CLUB The Avery County Rotary Club is dedicated to actively serving the community through fundraising and also through service projects. The Rotary Club meets at Cannon Memorial Hospital at noon on Thursdays in the Linville Room. To learn more about the group or to inquire about joining, email Mountain Times Publications

averycountyrotary@gmail.com or you can visit averycountyrotary.wix.com/home.

OTHER AREA ORGANIZATIONS Along with the Kiwanis and the Rotary Clubs, there are several additional clubs and organizations in Avery County dedicated to a variety of causes. Whether it’s dealing with hunger, poverty, or affordable housing, there is no shortage of opportunities to get involved in charities and around the community.

Listed alongside each organization is the cause each organization supports.

• Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens (Adults with disabilities) • Avery County Educational Foundation (Educational Opportunities) • Avery County Habitat for Humanity (Affordable Housing ) • Avery County Historical Museum (Historical Preservation) • Avery County Humane Society (Animal care and Adoption) • Avery County Shriners Club (Children) • Banner House Museum/ Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation (Historical Preservation) • Beech Mountain Community Club (Community Club) • Children’s Hope Alliance (Children) • Disabled American Veterans Chapter 87 (Veterans organization) • Feeding Avery Families (Hunger) • High Country Caregivers Foundation (Care for the Elderly) • High Country Charitable Foundation (Philanthropy) • High Country United Way (Philanthropy) • May Coalition (Economic empowerment)

AJT file photo

Banner Elk Kiwanis Club sponsors an annual Duck Race at Tate-Evans Town Park as part of the town’s Fourth of July festivities.

AJT file photo

Avery County Rotarians are involved in many service projects in the area, such as trash pickup along local roads and highways. In this image, Rotary members Neil Ramo, Melanie Bergin, Sarah McGuire, Michelle Scott, Dwight Schnirman, Katherine Schnirman and Kathy Kasprzak, as well as Margaret Thiele (not pictured) collected trash along a segment of Highway 194 (Cranberry Street) in Newland as part of the North Carolina Department of Transportation Adopt-A-Highway program.

• • • • •

Move with Compassion Ministry (Hunger, Clothing) New Opportunity School for Women (Economic empowerment) OASIS (Abuse and sexual assault) Reaching Avery Ministry (hunger, clothing ) VFW Pat Ray Post 4286 (veterans services)

• • • • •

Volunteer Avery (Community Service) Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge (Economic Empowerment WAMY Community Action (Economic empowerment) Williams Academy (Children) Yellow Mountain Enterprise (Adults with disabilities)

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Civic Arts and culture aplenty in Banner Elk artists. The gallery is active with American auction houses and has a selection of paintings from the 17th century to the present. Its current hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

By Christian Gardner

B

anner Elk and the surrounding community have an outstanding collection of art and culture in the area, and locals and visitors alike don’t have to travel very far to get a taste for something that piques their interest.

Patrons can interact and explore the culture of the High Country through a variety of different mediums in the area.

Cultural Arts Center at the Historic Banner Elk School 185 Azalea Circle Located in the heart of downtown Banner Elk, the Historic Banner Elk School is an art hub for the community, hosting many cultural events and programs. Ensemble Stage, emanating from Hahn Auditorium in the Historic Banner Elk School, brings professional performances and phenomenal productions to the community. Ensemble Stage stays busy throughout the year, bringing dramas, comedies, holiday performances, staged radio plays, children’s shows and more to the stage.

Viewers of all ages can enjoy this staple of Banner Elk’s community. To see show dates and get tickets, visit ensemblestage. com.

The BE Artists Gallery was formed by a group of local artists, which features fine arts and crafts that are for sale. The art within the gallery is by artists who live in and are inspired by the High Country, showcasing the region’s beauty and unique culture through their art. Fabric art, glass works, jewelry, metal works, paintings, photography and ceramics are just a few of the many media on display at the gallery.

To learn more, call (828) 898-6767 or visit beartistsgallery.com The Banner Elk Book Exchange is a community-based, volunteer-run book exchange located within the Historic Banner Elk School. There are books for all ages and the book exchange often

Photo courtesy LMC Summer Theater

Lees-McRae College Summer Theatre’s production of The (W)right Sister featured students and renowned actors comprising the ensemble cast. The production was one of three LMCST productions in 2023.

holds different types of community events. To see what events are happening at the Historic Banner Elk School, visit historicbannerelkschool.com.

Lees-McRae Theatre Arts The Theatre Arts program at LeesMcRae College holds three main stage productions each year, along with several student-directed productions. Attending productions at LIMC is not only a fun way to spend an afternoon, but is also a great way to show community support for the college and its students.

To see upcoming productions, show dates and to purchase tickets, visit Imc. edu/academics/programs/ theatre-arts/ index.htm.

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre When the academic year ends, the students who stay in Banner Elk over the summer start a schedule of summer productions that involve community members and an ensemble of professional actors from across the nation. The program has been in place since 1985 and allows students within the department to work with a larger pool of actors or try out different roles.

To learn more about the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre, visit lmc.edu/community/summer-theatre/ index.htm.

ART GALLERIES

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Along with the BE Artists Gallery, there are six other galleries to enjoy and explore in the Banner Elk area.

Art Cellar Gallery 920 Shawneehaw Lane (828) 898-5157 The Art Cellar Gallery displays paint, clay, glass, stone and woodwork of artists from the High Country and beyond. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Saturday.

Carlton Gallery 10360 Hwy. 105 S (828) 963-4288 carltongallery.com The Carlton Gallery was originally established as a small fiber studio in 1982.

Since then, it has grown to feature more than 150 local, regional, and national artists specializing in acrylics, watercolors, mixed media, pottery, sculpture and more.

The gallery is closed on Mondays and open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday and from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Clark Gallery 393 Shawneehaw Ave. S (828) 898-2095 Chris Clark’s gallery features a large selection of both local and national

Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 NC Hwy. 194 (828) 963-7347 Sally Nooney is an artist who specializes in both paintings and fused glass art.

Many of her paintings feature outdoor landscapes and animals, though she has a series of still-life paintings and paintings of “women with attitudes.” Her gallery, which is located between Banner Elk and Valle Crucis, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Mondays, when it is closed.

Studio 140 at Sorrento’s 140 Azalea Circle SE (828) 898-5214 bannerelkvillage.com/ studio-140 Studio 140 displays the artwork of Angela Accetturo, David Ganegas and Kent Paulette. As an open studio, community members can not only view the artists’ work, but watch the process of the artists creating it. Studio 140 is open from 4 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 5 to 10 p.m. on Sunday.

AJT file photo

Area artist Kent Paulette’s abstract and other work is on display at Studio 140 at Sorrento’s in Banner Elk. Mountain Times Publications

The great outdoors is the place to ‘BE” in Banner Elk

I

adventure involves a landmark near Grandfather Mountain, as the Blue Ridge Parkway and Linn Cove Viaduct offer breathtaking views and numerous hiking paths that make a visit worthwhile.

A short distance from Banner Elk, just over the North Carolina-Tennessee border is the Roan Highlands. It is a beloved place for many nature lovers. Hikers can traverse along portions of the Appalachian Trail and get an up-close, 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The areas of Beech and Sugar Mountains both offer recreational activities such as hiking, golf, trails and more, and during the winter both resorts are popular destinations for snowboard and ski fanatics alike.

Wildcat Lake is a serene, casual outdoor experience. It’s the perfect place for a

t’s no wonder why, with breathtaking views, a wide array of trails and parks along with perfect weather for outdoor activities during the summer, so many are drawn to the area known as Banner Elk. Whether it is to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, or simply to reconnect with nature, Banner Elk will not disappoint any outdoor enthusiast.

Grandfather Mountain is a short drive away from Banner Elk and is one of the prominent outdoor attractions in the High Country. Grandfather Mountain has many diverse flora and wildlife that makes each trip an adventure for the whole family to discover something new. The state park is also popular with hikers, with such trails as the Profile Trail. The popular trail has many spectacular views that will impress any first time guests.

Troy A. Hoover, DDS A fan favorite among General Dentist the guests that visit the Joan C. Schmitt DDS, MSD park is the famous Mile Periodontal Specialist High Swinging Bridge, as well as numerous exhibits Implants | Preventative that feature various Restorative | Periodontal & Oral Surgery animals, including bears, elk, otters and birds, in Advanced dental technology in a addition to the recently comfortable setting completed Wilson Center Cone Beam Ct Guided Implants for Nature Discovery. The Wilson Center includes an updated museum and classroom space.

For the information about the attractions that are at Grandfather, visit grandfather.com.

For trail maps and more 3616 Mitchell Ave. Suite 8 information about the state park, visit www.

Linville, NC 28646 ncparks.gov/grandfathermountain-state-park.

Another outdoor

828-742-1612

Mountain Times Publications

Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Hiking around the Grandfather Mountain area is a popular activity throughout the year, with varying degrees of difficulty depending on the trail.

spur-of-the-moment visit with friends, as its picturesque setting makes it a mustsee destination for anyone visiting the Banner Elk area. Lees-McRae College’s historic Mills Pond has trails where people can walk along the pond and observe the wildlife and natural beauty that the area

provides.

Whether you’re enjoying the natural beauty of Banner Elk from behind the wheel, on top of the Mile High Swinging Bridge or laid out by Wildcat Lake, the area allows everyone to connect with nature in whatever way they prefer.

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By Jaren Gragg

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TATE-EVANS PARK offers walking trail, playgrounds, outdoor amphitheater

By Jerry Snow

T

ate-Evans Park, located in downtown Banner Elk on Highway 194, includes the Tate-Evans Park with a Greenway walking trail, playgrounds, picnic tables and an amphitheater for the summer live music series.

The park is a striking symbol of the dedication of the town of Banner Elk to providing its residents with the best in public services, including recreation. Rather than serving any single purpose, TateEvans Town Park is designed to be used for a number of purposes and events, and the residents of Banner Elk put it to good use. Whether for daily exercise, family functions or community congregations, TateEvans Town Park serves as a central gathering place for the tightly knit Banner Elk community.

While Tate-Evans Park provides a setting for a variety of familiar, family-oriented outdoor activities, including a walking trail, wading pools, volleyball court, outdoor grills, picnic tables, picnic shelter, two playground areas, the park also serves as a venue for a variety of exciting scheduled events sponsored by the town, local organizations and businesses.

Tate-Evans Town Park includes an amphitheater that plays host to Banner Elk Concerts in the Park each Thursday night beginning in June.

A variety of other festivities are also centered around the park, including the popular “Party in the Park” during the Fourth of July celebration, as well as holiday activities during Halloween and

26 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

Photo submitted

The Greenway in Banner Elk has about 1.1 miles of paved trails.

Christmas seasons.

In addition to community events, families often take advantage of the park’s many facilities, which include restrooms open from April to September. Banner Elk families regularly host birthday parties, reunions and weddings at different sites around the park’s beautiful grounds. Town leaders recognized the popularity of Tate-Evans Town Park and continues to enhance the facility with various construction projects and upgrades, including new public restrooms, seating and picnic shelter on the grounds.

The Greenway adjacent to the park has about 1.1 miles of paved trails – including a loop inside the park. In addition to a trail for walking your dog, there is a fenced dog park. Walks can be extended through Lees-McRae College campus or down Shawneehaw Avenue (Highway 184) to the footbridge by the Mill Pond.

To extend the walk more, turn right onto Hickory Nut Gap Road and then make another quick right onto Mill Pond Road by the lake.

Walk past the dam and May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Keep a close eye out for birds and check out upcoming programs and tours. It’s recommended to return via the bridge across Elk River that takes you into the college campus. Across the road from the bridge, find Hemlock Trail for a half-mile hike through the woods (part of LeesMcRae’s mountain bike trails.)

While Tate-Evans Park and its walking trails meander near much of downtown Banner Elk, the most direct entrance is right next to Banner Elk Town Hall, located at 200 Park Avenue. For more information, call (828) 898-5398, or click to www.townofbannerelk.org/ recreation/town-parks.

Mountain Times Publications

HOUSES OF WORSHIP in Banner Elk and surrounding area

By Christian Gardner

T

he following is a list of churches and houses of worship located within Banner Elk and across Avery County.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Aaron Baptist Church All Saints Mission Altamont United Methodist Arbor Dale Presbyterian Banner Elk Christian Fellowship Banner Elk Church of Christ Banner Elk Presbyterian Banner Elk Seventh-Day Adventist Banner Elk United Methodist Beech Mountain Baptist Belview Baptist Church Big Meadows Baptist Chapel in the Woods Chestnut Dale Baptist Church of Jesus Christ Church of the Savior Crab Orchard FWB

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Cranberry Baptist Crossnore Baptist Crossnore Presbyterian Curtis Creek FWB Elk Mountain FWB Elk Park Baptist Elk Park Christian Elk Park United Methodist Emmanuel Baptist Faith Baptist Fall Creek Baptist Fellowship Baptist Fellowship Presbyterian First Baptist Church Forest Home Community Fletcher Presbyterian God’s Blessing Church Greater Joy Fellowship Green Valley Baptist Harmony Baptist Heaton Christian Henson Creek Baptist Ivey Heights FWB

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Jehovah’s Witnesses Jonas Ridge Baptist Linville Falls Community Church Linville Evangelical Methodist Matney Liberty Christian Midway Holiness Church Minneapolis Baptist Minneapolis Christian Minneapolis Methodist Mt. Calvary Baptist Mt. Pleasant Baptist Mountain View FWB Newland Christian Newland Presbyterian Newland United Methodist Open Door Baptist Pineola Baptist Pineola Presbyterian Pisgah Church Pleasant Hill Baptist Plumtree Presbyterian Powdermill Baptist The Ridge Christian

AJT file photo

Banner Elk Presbyterian Church, located adjacent to the Lees-McRae College campus.

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Roaring Creek Baptist Roaring Creek FWB St. Bernadette Catholic Stamey Town Baptist Sugar Mountain Baptist Yellow Mountain Baptist Vale FWB Victory Baptist Walnut Grove Presbyterian

TRISTAN’S CHIMNEY SERVICE “Keep The Home Fire Burning” Licensed & Insured

Chimney Water Proofing • Chimney Caps and Chases Video Inspection • Masonry Repairs • Wood Stove Sales Office: 828-688-0405 www.tristanschimneyservice.com email: office@tristanschimneyservice.com

Mountain Times Publications

DECEMBER 2023 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN •

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28 • BANNER ELK MY HOMETOWN • DECEMBER 2023

Mountain Times Publications