Boone My Hometown 2025-26

Welcome to Boone

As Mayor Pro Tem of Boone, I’m excited for the opportunity to welcome you to my hometown. Boone is an incredible place, confirmed by our recent recognition as our country’s “Best Mountain Town” in Travel + Leisure magazine. Much of that is due to our many residents, small businesses, panoramic views, and the community we’ve fostered right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

We’re more than a mountain town. We’re a place characterized by service, where neighbors help neighbors, folks are quick to share a smile, a robust nonprofit community brings selfless caretaking, and a thriving university community helps fuel a vibrant economy. As you walk our streets, you’ll be amazed at local institutions like F.A.R.M. Cafe, an organization dedicated to feeding anyone, regardless of means, where you may enjoy a locally sourced lunch right in our downtown.

And while the Blue Ridge Parkway will likely be a must-stop for any person passing through Boone, our town offers a parks system that can deliver views ready to compete with any postcard. We boast areas like

Clawson-Burnley Park, with one of the largest public stretches along one of the oldest rivers in the world – the New River (the irony is not lost on me) – or Daniel Boone Park, where native gardens, a historical drama, and an arboretum share space.

Boone has long been viewed as a pioneering town, one that’s not afraid to be a trailblazer, much like our namesake, Daniel Boone. We aim to be known as a town that believes in community, stewardship of our region, and showing up for each other. So come blaze that trail with

us and see what makes our home so incredible. Help spread joy, patronize local Boone businesses, tip your servers well, and respect the amazing, awe-inspiring environment that is our Appalachian Mountains and wildlife.

I’ve lived in Boone my entire adult life, and there’s nowhere else I’d rather be. So, welcome to the newcomers, those with deep roots, students, those who come every year, and everyone in between. See the best mountain town for yourself!

Dalton George Mayor Pro Tem

BOONE IS ON THE MAP

Accolades for the growing town

Travel + Leisure 2025 Best Small Mountain Town

USA Today’s 2025 No. 3 Best Small Town Beer Scene

USA Today’s 2025 Runner-up for Best Small College Town

Our State Magazine’s 2025 Top Coolest Mountain Town To Visit in NC This Summer

2024 “Tree City USA” recipient

Southern Living’s 2023

“Top 50 Best Small Towns In The South”

USA Today’s 2023 No.

8 Best Small Town for Adventure

Welcome to Boone

The Heart of the High Country

Whether you are a newcomer, visitor, local resident, retired person, business owner or student, there is something for you here in Boone. The High Country offers a quality of life that is unique to many regions in the State of North Carolina. Combined with year-long opportunities for outdoor recreation, our economic viability, technology infrastructure, and diverse business community truly make the Boone area a destination where you can work and play.

Boone My Hometown will help you get to know us as a community devoted to our local residents and serving the needs of our guests. The stories in this publication are prepared by journalists who have witnessed the growth of our area over generations. Their perspectives will help deliver tales of our everyday treasures in a way that connects to your perspectives.

We encourage you to visit Boone and enjoy our majestic community. The streets are filled with quaint restaurants, art galleries, and retail shops that combine a strong local business spirit with brands that resonate regionally and nationally.

If you need any assistance with your business or family relocation, retirement planning or vacation itinerary, just give us a call — we’re here to make you feel at home in the High Country. If you are a local resident, we thank you for continuing to support business interests that help fuel our community.

Together, we can continue to experience all that makes the Boone area a great place to work and live while extending a warm welcome to visitors, which will help further grow our economy and notoriety.

We can be reached at (828) 264-2225. For more information on the Boone Chamber, visit www.boonechamber.com.

Enjoy!

David Jackson President/CEO

Boone

Area

Chamber of Commerce

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce staff is there to help the community.

PHOTO BY SEAN PAVONE/ADOBE STOCK

PHOTO COURTESY TOWN OF BOONE

A map of the municipal service district in downtown Boone.

WELCOME TO BOONE your hometown

BY MOSS BRENNAN

Tucked away in the mountains of Western North Carolina is the town of Boone — the largest municipality and county seat in Watauga County. Home to Appalachian State University, thriving local businesses, and a resilient community with deep Appalachian roots, Boone offers a unique blend of college-town energy and mountain heritage.

Boone is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes that turn into a canopy of golden colors in the fall. This natural beauty, combined with its vibrant culture and strong sense of community, makes it an exceptional place to call home.

Boone was incorporated in 1872 and acquired its name from the famous pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone, who hunted and camped in the area.

Boone has the highest elevation (3,300 feet) of any town with a population greater

than 10,000 east of the Mississippi River. The altitude contributes to mild summer weather — an escape from the heat and humidity of the greater South. In the fall, the landscape explodes with hues of red, yellow and orange as the leaves change color. Winter snowfalls create picturesque scenes, while spring brings blooming rhododendrons and other flowers.

“Boone is the intersection of life’s greatest joys: outdoor recreation, rich arts and culture, the pursuit of education at all levels, a year-round tourism destination and a tight-knit community,” said Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Director of Communications Emma Faulkner.

Travelers can access Boone via U.S. 421, U.S. 321 and U.S. 221, making it easy to travel to and from. The Blue Ridge Parkway — a scenic mountain road and national park that traverses 469 miles in

See YOUR HOMETOWN on page 12

BOONE AT A GLANCE

The following information is compiled from the U.S. Census Bureau, Explore Boone, Watauga County, the N.C. Department of Commerce and N.C. State Bureau of Investigation

POPULATION

Population, 2023 Census Estimate: Boone, 19,811; Watauga County, 54,748

GEOGRAPHY

Land area in square miles: Boone: 6.31; Watauga County, 312.56

Persons per square mile: Boone, 3,024.7; Watauga, 173.1

Elevation: 3,333’

CRIME

Watauga County’s 2024 index crime rate: 815.9 per 100,000

Watauga County 2024 violent crime rate: 79.1 per 100,000 Watauga County 2024 property crime rate: 736.8 per 100,000

AVERAGE

TEMPERATURE (Fahrenheit)

Spring: High 61; low 39

Summer: High 77; low 58

Fall: High 63; low 42

Winter: High 44; low 25

OTHER

2025 property tax rate (per $100 valuation): Boone, 40 cents; Watauga, 31.8 cents

Boone Fire Town Limits: ISO Class 1 (best rating for fire protection)

Boone Fire Rural District: ISO Class 2/9E

PHOTO BY DEREK HALSEY

The Doc Watson statue is an iconic figure on King Street in downtown Boone.

North Carolina and Virginia — also passes through the county. The parkway offers majestic views of the mountains with multiple entrances within 20 minutes or less of Boone.

Multiple neighborhoods are within walking distance of downtown Boone, which offers a mix of college town culture, mountain heritage, arts, and commerce.

Diverse businesses, restaurants, shops and boutiques line King Street, offering many unique items and storefronts. During the summer, visitors can hear music from the lawn of the Jones House downtown or attend one of the popular festivals — like Boonerang or Buskers Fest — on King Street.

One of the town’s greatest amenities is AppalCART, a free transportation service around Boone, with additional routes in the county available for a small fee.

PHOTO BY NATALIE FITCH

The Town of Boone’s Fourth of July parade always features a large crowd.

The town also actively supports the local agricultural sector, with weekly farmers markets in two locations during the spring and summer and a winter market from December to March.

Retailers provide year-round access to locally grown and raised produce and products.

Community spirit is what helps define Boone.

Nothing showed this community spirit better than how everyone came together after the devastation Hurricane Helene brought to the town and surrounding area in September 2024. From businesses opening up their doors to support other

businesses and displaced community members to restaurants and chefs cooking free meals for volunteers, emergency services personnel and anyone else in need.

The community response showed just how special it is to live in Boone and the High Country — a place where neighbors become family, especially in times of need.

Whether you’re visiting family, here for vacation, or considering a move, you’ll discover why so many people are proud to call Boone their hometown.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Downtown Boone is always bustling.

Boone Real Estate Live in a True Hometown

BY LESLIE EASON, NC REALTOR®

After several intense years of record demand, Boone’s Real Estate market has settled back into a steady, balanced market rhythm — much like the pace of life locals love here. Boone offers that rare trifecta: natural beauty, a deeply rooted sense of community, and a true four-season lifestyle. Excellent schools, endless outdoor recreation, and the presence of Appalachian State University give the town a year-round energy that appeals to everyone from young families to retirees to second-home seekers.

Since Boone is the educational, commercial, and medical hub of the High Country, there is a larger percentage of full-time residences and neighborhoods. This contrasts with the High County overall, where second homes predominate the Real Estate market. The shift toward remote work during the COVID era also increased the number of homebuyers relocating here full-time, trading bigger cities for authenticity, nature, and breathing room.

2025 MARKET OVERVIEW

Boone has returned to a balanced real estate market—similar to pre-2020 conditions—where opportunities are relatively even for both buyers and sellers.

The year-to-date median price for a single-family home in Boone is $611,500, and $456,019 for condos and townhomes—both slightly higher than in 2024. Sales price is averaging about 97% of list price. Affordability remains a challenge for first-time buyers, university professionals, and incoming hires at local companies. Pricing becomes more accessible outside of Boone in northern and western Watauga County and into nearby Ashe County.

The number of home sales is down notably from 2024. The slow start after Hurricane Helene contributed, but the larger driver is economic uncertainty and buyers sitting on the sidelines—or being priced out altogether. As a result, homes are taking nearly a month to go under contract. This increase in time on market, plus more new listings this year, has resulted in higher inventory than we have seen in five years.

Not all homes are performing the same. Well-maintained, updated listings priced correctly are still moving quickly, sometimes with multiple offer. Older or overpriced homes are sitting—and right now the median days on market for active (not under contract) homes is 83 days. We’re also seeing more price reductions on homes listed high “just to see” if they’ll get it.

Pricing trends are expected to remain stable or see slight appreciation into 2026. A meaningful interest rate drop below 6% could unlock “interest rate jail,” prompting more sellers to list and boosting both supply and demand.

See REAL ESTATE on page 18

LESLIE EASON

The strongest showing and contract activity occurs May through October, with September typically the highest closing month, reflecting summer viewings and offers. However, the market now remains active throughout the year.

BOONE’S NEIGHBORHOODS & SURROUNDING AREAS: A DIVERSE AND HIGHLY LOCALIZED HOUSING MARKET

Boone offers a remarkably diverse mix of homes — from classic farmhouses with acreage to cozy woodland cabins, modern mountain retreats, and condominiums catering to university students and second-home buyers. Unlike many areas of the country, Boone does not have sprawling, cookie-cutter subdivisions.

The mountain terrain creates a network of winding roads and small clusters of homes, resulting in neighborhoods with distinct personality and no two homes exactly alike.

Because of this layout, microlocation matters. Sun exposure, elevation, winter road access, and school district can all vary dramatically within just a few miles — which is why working with a local REALTOR® is essential when exploring Boone and the surrounding High Country.

In-Town Boone

Within Boone town limits, you’ll find established neighborhoods near Appalachian State University, just off King Street, and behind Earthfare Market. Roads such as Deerfield, Bamboo, and Poplar Grove branch into numerous side communities — with Poplar Grove even crossing Hwy 105 and winding through scenic mountain terrain all the way to

Overall real estate stats from September 2024 to September 2025.

Shulls Mill Road.

Boone-to-Blowing

Rock Corridor

Highly desirable neighborhoods sit just outside Boone along Aho Road and Friendship Church Road, crossing seamlessly toward

GRAPHIC COURTESY LESLIE EASON

Blowing Rock via Sampson and George Hayes Roads. These areas offer a central location between both towns. Continue along Sampson Road to reach the Continental Divide and the entrance to Blue Ridge Mountain Club, one of the region’s most sought-after luxury communities.

South Toward Banner Elk

Heading south on Highway 105, Shulls Mill leads to Hound Ears Club, a private, resortstyle golf community. On the right, Echota offers one of the area’s larger and more planned condominium communities, popular with second-home owners.

North & West:

Todd, Vilas, Sugar Grove & Zionville

Moving north and west of Boone brings quieter, more rural charm — with wide views,

pastoral settings, river access, and a more relaxed pace of life.

Todd, Vilas, Sugar Grove, and Zionville are popular with buyers seeking lower pricing, space, privacy, and a more traditional feel.

KEY TIPS & STRATEGIES FOR BUYERS: BE PREPARED & STAY PROACTIVE

Boone’s market rewards prepared buyers who are ready to act. Here’s how to position yourself for success:

• Get Fully Pre-Approved — Not Just “Pre-Qualified.”

Sellers expect a true loan pre-approval or proof of funds with your offer — not just stated income. Working with a local or High Country-experienced lender makes the process smoother and more competitive. Even for second-home buyers “in no rush,” you must be financially ready when the right

opportunity hits.

• If a Home Meets Your Needs, Don’t Wait.

While some listings linger, the best homes still move fast — and occasionally above asking. Many buyers lose out by assuming they have time or waiting on a possible price drop. If the home checks your boxes, chances are it’s attracting others

too. Hesitation is costly in this market.

• Start Early & Work with a Local REALTOR®.

Even if you’re just exploring, start with a Realtor® now. They can provide local insight, real-time MLS alerts, and help

See REAL ESTATE on page 21

PHOTO COURTESY LESLIE EASON

A house that was for sale on Orchard Lane.

you understand values before you’re ready to act. NOTE: New nationwide rules now require a signed buyer agency or showing agreement before homes can be shown — virtually or in person — but this can be for a short time period or specific properties if you are not yet ready to commit to an agent.

• Explore Virtually First. Not in town yet? Request video or live virtual showings. It’s a fast way to eliminate mismatches — or identify a must-see — before you travel.

• Visit Boone Early in the Process.

Even before the “perfect listing” appears online, visit in person to learn the lay of the land. Knowing neighborhoods, road access, terrain, and lifestyle differences ahead of time allows you to move quickly when the right home hits the market.

APARTMENTS AND RENTAL PROPERTIES IN BOONE

Boone’s rental market is tight, and dominated by student rentals. Finding long term rentals takes some research. To explore rentals in Boone, try these resources:

1. Rental Management Companies: Search for “Long Term Rentals Near Boone” online to find a variety

The year-to-date median price for a single-family home in Boone is $611,500, and $456,019 for condos and townhomes—both slightly higher than in 2024. This home that was for sale is located on Shores Way.

offers a remarkably diverse mix of homes — from classic farmhouses with acreage to cozy woodland cabins, modern mountain retreats, and condominiums catering to university students and second-home buyers. This home that was for sale is located on Cherry Drive.

of property management companies.

2. Facebook Groups: Facebook groups such as “Watauga County in the Know” or “High Country Homes for Sale & Rent” have become extremely helpful resources to find rentals not in management programs.

3. Vacation Rentals: Some owners of vacation rental properties are now open to renting their homes for longer periods of time. You can look at AirBnb.com and VRBO. com, and also check with local vacation rental companies.

Leslie Eason, MBA is a REALTOR® with Keller Williams High Country Realty and the owner of the Leslie Eason Real Estate Team. She and her team have helped over 700 buyers and sellers in Boone and the High Country. Contact: leslie@ easonteam.com, 828-484-4811.

PHOTO COURTESY LESLIE EASON

PHOTO COURTESY LESLIE EASON

Boone

A bright future Emerging leaders highlight growing community

BY DAVID JACKSON President/CEO, Boone Area Chamber of Commerce

A class of 16 emerging leaders and a longtime industry and community mentor were among the honorees at the 9th annual 4 Under 40 Awards.

This year’s finalists embody the traits of community leadership by shaping young minds in classrooms, stabilizing and growing businesses in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, driving the missions of local non-profits, and providing talent, energy, and insight to established local businesses. While this annual showcase honors these emerging leaders as the next generation of community advocates, their current impact on key issues and projects more than demonstrates their abilities and passion for serving the High Country.

Over 60 nominees were considered in the pool of nominees.

This year’s finalists stood out not just for their accomplishments, but for their unwavering commitment to people— their students, customers, clients, and neighbors. The evening’s program was designed to provide inspiration, hope, and the knowledge that the future of our community is in capable hands.

“The two traits that stood out the most about this year’s class of honorees are their desire to continue learning and their level of activity toward important community projects,” said David Jackson, president/CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce.

“These leaders are curious about how to connect community betterment to their professional interests, and that inspires them to constantly survey ways to engage See BRIGHT on page 24

with important projects and ideas. It goes without saying that each one of these honorees have been active in the recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene, and they were ready to serve in that moment because of the skills they have developed and their desire to find a genuine way to impact their own backyards.

The event was made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.

Additional event support was provided by Beech Mountain Resort, Kid Cove, and the High Country Young Professionals.

BUSINESS OWNER:

ELISHA BROWN, BOONE BAGELRY

Along with her husband Clark, Elisha Brown has been the owner of Boone Bagelry since November 2023. Prior to ownership, Elisha and Clark ran all daily operations of the restaurant since 2018 but Elisha has been an employee of Boone Bagelry since 2009. Elisha has over 20 years of experience in restaurants and hospitality. In that time, she focused her efforts in front of house management while honing her skills in leadership, efficiency, productivity, organization, and time management. With a degree in Psychology from Appalachian State University, Elisha has combined her education with her learned skills to successfully run an established business in downtown Boone.

Since January of 2021, Elisha has also served as Secretary for Boone’s Tourism Development Authority. Along with her

fellow board members Elisha helps make decisions for the town that will bring in visitors and needed revenue for Boone’s businesses. She hopes to continue working in the community to help make decisions to maintain Boone’s small town charm while also supporting visitors, students, and locals.

Outside of work, Elisha enjoys seeing live music with her husband and friends, playing with her dog, gardening, and reading. She loves visiting with family down the mountain whenever possible. Elisha is passionate about sustainability, affordable housing, and community connections. She hopes to pursue these passions with her downtown business and future endeavors.

Additional finalists in the Business Owner category were Erica Brinker, The Speckled Trout, Cody Critcher, Bigfoot Builders, and Declan Nishiyama, Mountain Dev. Read more about these finalists here.

ELISHA BROWN

End-of-Fall Savings Tips fora Cozy Winter

or d n’ h m n high t . Hereare afew tips to help youSAVE!

Install a programmable H C thermo tat.

Turn o light that aren’t being used.

Wa h dishes and clothes in cold ater.

Replace our air filter regularl , about e er t o month .

On sunn da s keep our urtain dra n.

In the inter months take ad antage of the armth from natural light.

Blo k draft around door or indo s b repla ing eatherstripping or ith a rolled-up to el.

Wait until our dish asher is full before tarting a ash c le.

Prep meals for the eek and tore lefto er in the freezer.

Bake ith glass or eramic pans.

Don’t peek in the o en hile baking! (al o a good baking tip!)

EDUCATION

CARVER, BANNER ELK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Born and raised in the High Country of North Carolina, Justin Kyle Carver has dedicated his career to shaping the future of education in his community. A distinguished NC Teaching Fellow Scholar, he graduated from Appalachian State University in 2007 with a degree in Elementary Education. His teaching career began at Newland Elementary School, where he spent four years making a meaningful impact in the classroom.

Eager to expand his influence in education, Justin pursued a Master’s Degree in School Administration from Appalachian State University, graduating in 2012. His leadership journey began as Assistant Principal at Avery Middle School (20112014), followed by serving as Principal at Cranberry Middle

School (2014-2017). Since 2017, Justin has proudly led Banner Elk School, where his passion for innovation and student success continues to thrive.

Beyond his professional achievements, Justin is deeply rooted in family and community. He met his wife, Whitney Carver, at Newland Elementary, where she is a dedicated Kindergarten teacher. Together, they are raising their three children— Thatcher (11), Maggie (9), and Deacon (6)—with the same commitment to education and excellence that defines their careers.

A visionary leader, Justin is relentless in his pursuit of ensuring that every student is challenged, valued, and experiences a meaningful education. His enthusiasm for learning, leadership, and school spirit is unmatched. When he’s not shaping the future at BES, you’ll find him passionately supporting Appalachian State football and meticulously planning life around Duke Basketball games.

For Justin, education is more than a job—it’s a calling, a passion, and a lifelong commitment to making Banner Elk School the best it can be.

Additional finalists in the Education Professional category were Brittany Bolick, Blowing Rock School, Dr. Brandy Hadley, Appalachian State University — Walker College of Business, Savannah Stanbery, Appalachian State University — Office of Alumni Engagement. Read more about these finalists here.

JUSTIN CARVER

NON-PROFIT BUSINESS

PROFESSIONAL: JESSICA YATES, THE CHILDREN’S COUNCIL OF WATAUGA COUNTY

Jessica Yates is a native to the High Country, graduating from Appalachian State University with a Bachelors in History, Secondary Education. After teaching High School and Middle school for a few years, she developed an interest in supporting our youngest learners. She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Birth to Kindergarten Education from UNC Greensboro and transitioned to a career in early childhood education. With over ten years of experience as an early childhood educator in the High Country and surrounding areas, Jessica eventually joined the Children’s Council of Watauga County as a home visitor in the Parents as Teachers program. She now serves as the

Family Services Program Director at the agency, where she leads a team of ten staff members overseeing eight distinct programs. Additionally, Jessica is the secretary of the Watauga Education Foundation and co-chairs the Policy and Prevention Committee for the Watauga Compassionate Communities Initiative. Jessica’s career has been profoundly shaped by her greatest achievement, her daughter Makayla. The experience of motherhood has taught her invaluable lessons about the importance of supporting children and families in the community.

Additional finalists in the Non-Profit Professional category were Kayla Lasure, Hunger and Health Coalition, Seth Moore, W.A.M.Y. Community Action, and Karina Romero, AppHealthCare. Read more about these finalists here.

RISING STAR:

CHELSEA HELMS, STITCH DESIGN SHOP

Chelsea Helms is a Project Manager in the Commercial Architecture Studio at STITCH Design Shop in Boone. Chelsea obtained her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and her Master of Science in Building Science, both from Appalachian State University. A true mountaineer, Chelsea felt the call to “boonerang” back to teach at App State for 8 years after diverse professional experience in design and construction management. Chelsea is a North Carolina

See BRIGHT on page 28

S ’NAME ®

REBUILDING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

thana year,the resilientpeople of County havebeen recovering from Helene. Samaritan’sPurse continues yrestoringhope, homes, and eindesperateneed sharing the Gospel while repair homes for our were impacted.

OD ETOLEA RN OLVE D.

JESSICA YATES

Registered Interior Designer and a professional member of IIDA. When she is not practicing design, you might find her on a trail in the woods or riding bikes with her family.

Additional finalists in the Rising Star category were Anneliese Thomae Elias, Watauga County Immigrant Justice Coalition, Justin Kearley, NC Office of Rural Health, and Billie Shilling, Hampton Inn of Boone. Read more about these finalists here.

RESPECT YOUR ELDER AWARD:

HARRY DAVIS

The evening also included the annual Respect Your Elder award, which was presented to Dr. Harry Davis, a longtime professor at Appalachian State University and Dean of the North Carolina School of Banking.

“There are so many people to thank for this and so many friends that made their way here tonight to be a part of this evening. Last year, this award was presented to Dr. Ken Peacock, posthumously. If my name is ever in the same

sentence with a leader like him, that is an incredible honor for me,” Dr. Davis said.

Dr. Davis is a distinguished leader in banking and economics, serving as Professor of Banking and Economist for the North Carolina Bankers Association. He has held the role of Professor of Finance and former Chair of the Department of Finance at Appalachian State University, where he has shaped the field of finance and mentored future industry leaders. His quarterly economic forecasts are widely respected and regularly featured in prominent media outlets, making him a trusted voice on banking and economic issues across the nation.

“The opportunity to educate and mentor aspiring members of the banking profession is something that means a great deal to me,” said Dr. Davis. “I have dedicated my career to helping young people find their paths in this industry, while also working to provide guidance to banks and their leaders as

HARRY DAVIS

CHELSEA HELMS

I am able. I’ve been fortunate to work with some inspired and capable people over the years, many of whom have gone on to have great careers. It makes me proud to see their continued accomplishments and successes. Many of these folks will have the opportunity to come to Boone for the North Carolina School of Banking, which I’m proud to have helped bring here. Being recognized with this award means I must have made a connection or two along the way, and that is what being an educator is all about.”

A revered consultant and advisor, Dr. Davis has played a vital role in the establishment of numerous banks and continues to serve on the Board of Directors for LifeStore Bank, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to enhancing the banking sector. He is a current member and past Chair of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Dr. Davis has served on numerous community non-profit boards during his time in the High Country.

“It’s amazing to see how former students and colleagues of Dr. Davis light up when his name is mentioned,” said David Jackson, President/CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. “Not only has he been a thought leader in the banking industry and a trusted economist within our region, but he has also impacted thousands of students during his time as a professor, which may be his greatest accomplishment. The number of his former students that have risen to positions of influence within the industry is remarkable, and they are quick to point out the support he provided as a foundational moment in their careers. The

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce has been extremely fortunate to have Dr. Davis serve our organization for so many years. He is often the voice of reason and calm when we talk about our fluctuating economy. His sense of humor brings welcome levity to complex conversations. We join the host of others in recognizing Dr. Davis for his accomplishments and look forward to our continued work with him in the future.”

Business, Community partnerships continue to grow in Boone

BY MOSS BRENNAN

Boone’s business community continues to grow and evolve with the ever-changing landscape. In the challenging months following Hurricane Helene, many local businesses faced economic loss, weakened infrastructure and a limited workforce. Yet, Boone and the High Country as a whole have shown remarkable determination and creativity to bounce back stronger than before.

New ventures, partnerships, and projects have taken shape across the region, reflecting the creativity and collaboration that define Boone. Ribbon cuttings, grand openings, and community celebrations this year have symbolized not just individual business growth, but the reopening and renewed energy of the region as a whole.

Over the last year, many major projects have either started or been completed in the area. The long-awaited Howard Street

revitalization project broke ground after decades of conversation on how to improve that downtown corridor. It is scheduled to finish up in mid to late 2026.

There have also been many new businesses opening or expanding in downtown and beyond. After opening in 2019, the Horton Hotel is expanding on King Street. The hotel acquired a building just 25 yards from the current location and has turned it into eight additional hotel rooms, a gym and wellness facility, a sauna, and a versatile, flexible space for business meetings, gatherings or special events. The expansion, called The Hodges

PHOTO COURTESY BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AppalCART unveiled North Carolina’s first double-decker public transit bus, which serves the Boone area

Throughout the summer, the Chamber hosted various ribbon cuttings to let everyone know that Western

From BUSINESS page 31

Reserve, is located at 589 West King Street.

Other businesses are also expanding, as Venture Chocolate and Wine is expanding its space, and the popular breakfast spot Melanie’s has expanded to Howard Street in a larger space. Taking over the building where Melanie’s was formerly will be Chai and Chutney, a new venture from the owners of Mint Indian Cuisine. Other new businesses opening on King Street include The Social, Daniel and the Dog (within the 1850 Hotel), Comeback Shack, Mo’s Cloud Cafe and Fries and Friends.

Other businesses also celebrated grand openings over the last year — either opening for the first time or reopening after sustaining damage from Hurricane Helene.

Some of the businesses that had been under construction that celebrated their grand opening include The Pottery Lot, The 1850 Hotel, Home2Suites and AMOREM.

Businesses that reopened after closing due to Hurricane Helene include River Birch Sauna, First Horizon Bank and Walmart (main store and produce section).

Other ribbon cuttings celebrated by the Boone Area Chamber

of Commerce include:

• Mountain Community Bank

• Skyland Furniture & Mattress

• Pinnacle Storage

• Stepping Stone of Boone

• Hunger and Health Coalition

• Alexander Dennis Double Decker Bus

• Schuster Physical Therapy

• Apotheca Cannabis Dispensary

• Pearl’s Kitchen + Tiny Market

• Gilded Age Antiques

• Kids Play Space at Hospitality House

• AppHealthCare Mobile Health Services

• High Country Radio

• Juniper James Bridal

Many partnerships have also led to the local business growth. In Boone, Over Yonder and Rhode’s Motor Lodge came together to keep the popular restaurant’s legacy going. In January 2025, the restaurant, formerly located in Valle Crucis,

PHOTO COURTESY BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

North Carolina was open for business.

announced it was closing due to Hurricane Helene’s effects on the local economy. Over Yonder opened in June 2014 and is located in the former homestead of the Taylor family, who were one of the founding families of Valle Crucis.

Three months later, Rhode’s Motor Lodge announced a new culinary venture in collaboration with esteemed local chef and restaurateur Andy Long, formerly of the celebrated Over Yonder restaurant. Long took the helm of the lodge’s on-site dining establishment, named “Over Yonder Boone.” Rhode’s Motor Lodge opened in October 2023.

Another local partnership that has helped the community thrive is the one between Valle Crucis School, Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute and the Valle Crucis Conference Center. When Hurricane Helene destroyed the old Valle Crucis School, various organizations stepped up to ensure that students still had somewhere to learn while their new school was being built.

While students were going to those separate locations, the new Valle Crucis School was completed, with students returning for the first time together on Oct. 22, 2025.

CCC&TI, which has provided a scholarship to each Valle Crucis middle school student who completed the 2024-25 school year at their campus, has also expanded its Watauga Occupational Training Facility by adding 10,000 square feet of instructional space. The addition enables CCC&TI to

PHOTO COURTESY BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Pottery Lot celebrated its opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

provide more training opportunities in a variety of skilled trade programs, which are enrolling for the fall semester.

The lower floor of the expansion has been dedicated entirely to skilled trades training and will provide more space for programs like plumbing, HVAC, and residential wiring. The

additional space will enable the college to offer more sections of training courses in high-wage, high-demand programs, aiming to increase the number of skilled workers in these fields.

In spite of Boone and the High Country as a whole getting hit hard by Hurricane Helene, and even COVID before that, the business community continues to grow through partnerships, expansion and new visions.

First Lady Anna Stein cuts the ribbon during WNC Open for Business Week over the summer.

Community awards

honor those who make the High Country a better place

BY BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Nine local leaders and businesses were recognized at the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Spirit of Boone celebration for not only for their professional achievements but also for their resilience, community-minded leadership, and the dependable ways they have helped Boone rise, rebuild and move forward in the year since Hurricane Helene.

ALFRED ADAMS AWARD FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MOUNTAIN BIZWORKS

The Alfred Adams Award for Economic Development recognizes individuals and/or organizations who have worked for the orderly growth and development of Boone and Watauga County. Adams served as a local banker and prominent community organizer. He provided influence on many Chamber committees in the organization’s formative years. This award is sponsored annually by Foscoe Companies.

Since its founding in 1989, Mountain BizWorks has emerged as a leading force in advancing entrepreneurship and economic resilience in Western North Carolina. As a U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), the

organization provides tailored coaching, classes, and flexible financing to small businesses, especially those underserved by traditional lenders. From 2024 to the spring of 2025, Mountain BizWorks issued over $41.4 million in loans and $6.7 million in grants to support business growth, innovation, and retention across the region.

See

MATT RAKER

Within just 10 days of Hurricane Helene, Mountain BizWorks launched the WNC Strong: Helene Business Recovery Fund, initially backed by the State of North Carolina, Appalachian Regional Commission, and the Golden LEAF Foundation. To date, almost $50 million in recovery funds have been issued across Western North Carolina, preserving nearly ten thousand jobs and keeping vital businesses operating throughout the High Country and beyond. To further bolster recovery, through their Rural Rebuilding Together Grant Fund, Mountain BizWorks partnered with the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation to contribute an additional $400,000 toward the “Hope for the High Country” Business Resiliency Disaster Grant Program, expanding capacity grants specifically to small businesses in rural downtown communities across Avery, Ashe, and Watauga counties.

What sets Mountain BizWorks apart is its steadfast local focus. Decisions are made by people who live and work here, and their inclusive, mission-driven approach ensures support reaches the entrepreneurs who need it most, from women and immigrants to rural and BIPOC business owners. With this blend of innovative services, unwavering local commitment, and disaster recovery leadership, Mountain BizWorks is a profound engine of economic vitality and resilience throughout the region.

KATHY CRUTCHFIELD CITIZEN OF THE YEAR ASHLEY GALLAHER

teenagers and skaters of all ages. More than just a skatepark, it fosters creativity, connection, and community for people across the High Country.

When Hurricane Helene struck, owner Ashley Gallaher transformed that same space into the Stateline Resource Station, which became a lifeline for Watauga’s most impacted residents. Within days, ZRC’s warehouse and parking lot were repurposed into a distribution hub, serving over 1,200 families in 3 different states with emergency supplies like food, water, generators, clothing, and repair materials. The station also worked to meet unconventional needs — from gas cards for commuters to other forms of flexible support that helped neighbors bridge gaps during recovery. She also helped launch Brittany’s Fund Recovery Grant Program, which continues to provide critical support.

In recognition of her leadership, Ashley was honored with the Dogwood Award by then North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein for her outstanding efforts during recovery.

On New Year’s Day 2025, after three months of service as a resource station, Zionville Ramp Company reopened as a skatepark. This fall, the space will expand with the opening of Blake’s Backyard, honoring the memory of a beloved ZRC skater and friend. Created as a lasting tribute, this new area reflects the Ramp’s commitment to being a safe, welcoming place for all.

Ashley’s ability to turn a private business into a public good and her dedication to community service truly embody the spirit of Boone, making her a most deserving recipient of this year’s Kathy Crutchfield Citizen of the Year Award.

SUE WILMOTH AWARD FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF TOURISM BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY FOUNDATION

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce presents the Kathy Crutchfield Citizen of the Year Award annually to an individual who exemplifies a selfless work ethic while impacting and supporting a broad array of community partners. The award is presented annually by Beech Mountain Resort.

Opened in the summer of 2023, Zionville Ramp Company quickly became an eclectic third space and safe haven for local

The Sue W. Wilmoth Award for the Advancement of Tourism is named after the former Chamber Director, who used her influence in tourism promotion to capitalize on the region’s natural resources while balancing progress with preservation. The award is sponsored

ASHLEY GALLAHER

CAROLYN WARD

annually by Home 2 Suites of Boone.

In North Carolina, tourism tied to the Blue Ridge Parkway in 2023 generated approximately $1.39 billion in visitor spending within its communities. The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, a longstanding steward of America’s most iconic scenic route, exemplifies forward-thinking leadership and regional resilience. Since its inception in 1997, the Foundation has invested over $24 million to enhance cultural heritage, visitor experience, and educational programs.

In response to Hurricane Helene, the Foundation stepped up with critical recovery efforts. Alongside the Blue Ridge Rising economic revival plan, they recently secured a $750,000 grant from Dogwood Health Trust to support community recovery and strengthen tourism infrastructure. In tandem, they received an ARC-funded $5.13 million investment aimed at enhancing tourism, workforce development, and trail improvements across 22 Parkway-adjacent counties, a legacy-building strategy that also addresses post-Helene reconstruction needs.

The Foundation has made tangible improvements right here in the High Country. Their multi-million-dollar exterior restoration of Flat Top Manor, the historic Cone Manor, stands as the most extensive repair in its 120-year history, thanks to donor contributions in partnership with the National Park Service.

Beyond the manor, they’re finishing construction of a new paved walkway from the parking area to Bass Lake’s loop trail, creating an accessible path that opens this scenic loop to visitors of all mobility levels.

Through these efforts, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has woven recovery, innovation, and preservation into a unified strategy welcoming visitors back to refreshed communities and revitalized landscapes. Their forward-thinking approach ensures the Parkway continues to be an economic and cultural lifeline for

WESLEY SMITH

communities throughout the High Country.

BEN SUTTLE SPECIAL SERVICES AWARD

WESLEY SMITH

The Ben Suttle Special Services Award is named for the former Boone Town Councilman and recognizes the spirit of volunteerism in the community. This award is presented annually by Appalachian State University.

When disaster strikes, some people rise to the front lines — not for recognition, but out of unwavering commitment to community.

Wesley Smith exemplifies that spirit. As Chair of the Watauga Long-Term Recovery Group and Director of Missions for the Three Forks Baptist Association, which serves 31 churches, Wesley mobilized resources and volunteers with relentless compassion during Hurricane Helene recovery.

Within days of the storm, Wesley coordinated emergency distribution efforts, working closely with local churches, pastors, and community members to ensure essential supplies reached those who needed them most. He organized meals through Baptist on Mission and helped distribute and serve food to residents, volunteers, and neighboring communities. His dedication also took him directly into the hardest-hit areas —spending nights at Valle Crucis School mucking out flood-damaged spaces, repeatedly stepping into difficult and exhausting conditions to help neighbors recover.

Wesley’s leadership extended beyond immediate relief. He

understood the detailed needs required to establish the Watauga Long-Term Recovery Group and helped connect key leaders to the right roles to lead subcommittees and engage meaningfully with the community. His strategic vision and hands-on efforts created a coordinated, compassionate response that strengthened community ties and ensured no one was left behind.

Through his tireless service, Wesley embodies what it truly means

NANCY CRAWFORD

to build hope and resilience in the face of hardship. His unwavering dedication makes him a natural and inspiring recipient of the Ben Suttle Special Services Award.

BAKER/JONES WOMAN OF THE YEAR NANCY CRAWFORD

The Baker-Jones Woman of the Year award is named for longtime Chamber volunteers Gillian Baker and Susan Jones. This award honors an inspiring member who exemplifies the qualities of leadership, mentorship, and community involvement. This award is co-sponsored annually by UNC Health Appalachian and Blue Ridge Energy.

Nancy Crawford is a dynamic leader whose commitment to advocacy, community, and beauty has made a lasting impact on the High Country. As a Licensed Medical Esthetician at Dogwood Primary Care + Medical Aesthetics, Nancy combines her expertise in skincare with a genuine desire to help individuals feel radiant in their own skin. Through personalized treatments and a welcoming approach, she fosters an environment where clients can embrace their beauty and well-being.

Nancy is committed to uplifting others beyond her professional role. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, she played a pivotal role in supporting affected community members, particularly Spanish-speaking residents. Nancy provided translation services, facilitated access to essential resources, and connected individuals with housing and aid, ensuring that no one was left behind during

recovery efforts.

Her dedication to fostering inclusivity extends to her involvement with Q’Pasa Appalachia — Avery, an organization focused on supporting the Latino community in the region. She also serves on the board of Girls on the Run, where she supports efforts to inspire confidence, health, and leadership in young girls across the High Country. Additionally, Nancy contributed significantly to the success of the Boonerang Music and Arts Festival, particularly the

BEN LOOMIS

inaugural Boonerang International Festival. Through her volunteer efforts, she helped organize and promote cultural exchanges, enriching the festival’s offerings and strengthening community ties.

Nancy’s efforts continue to inspire and uplift those around her, exemplifying the qualities celebrated by the Baker/Jones Woman of the Year Award.

WADE BROWN AWARD FOR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT BEN LOOMIS

The Wade Brown Award for Community Involvement is the Chamber’s oldest award, dating back to 1979. Named after the first recipient of the honor, this award recognizes a significant contribution through community engagement. The award is sponsored annually by W.A.M.Y. Community Action.

Ben Loomis has emerged as a dedicated advocate for affordable housing in Watauga County, working as a full-time electrician and serving as the Board Chair of the Watauga Community Housing Trust (WCHT). Under his leadership, the organization has made significant strides in addressing the region’s housing challenges. In 2023, WCHT launched the First Home Fund, a communitydriven initiative that successfully raised over $50,000 to purchase a home in the historic Junaluska community. This project not only preserved a piece of local heritage but also provided a pathway to permanent, affordable housing for a community member. Following careful renovations, the home has now been sold, marking a major milestone in WCHT’s mission and creating a

lasting impact for the new homeowner.

Beyond fundraising, Ben played a central role in the renovation efforts. The home was restored with a focus on sustainability, utilizing materials like cellulose insulation to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. In addition, Ben partners with Appalachian State students through initiatives like the Solar Decathlon, encouraging work-based learning opportunities while also leveraging their extra hands to

GRANT WILLIAMS AND CRYSTAL SMITH

support ongoing renovation projects. This approach aligns with WCHT’s mission to create homes that are both affordable and environmentally responsible.

Ben’s commitment extends to community engagement and advocacy. He has actively participated in discussions with local government officials, including presenting updates to the Watauga County Board of Commissioners, to raise awareness about affordable housing needs and solutions. Through his unwavering dedication and leadership, Ben Loomis exemplifies the spirit of community involvement, making him a deserving recipient of the Wade Brown Award.

DAN MEYER PARTNERSHIP AWARD

THE SUMMIT PICKLEBALL

The Dan Meyer Community Partnership Award recognizes a community leader for their efforts to bring multiple parties together for a common cause. Meyer served as President/CEO of the Chamber for 12 years before retiring in August of 2016. The award is sponsored annually by LifeStore Bank.

Co-owners Crystal Smith and Grant Williams envisioned The Summit Pickleball in Boone as more than just a state-ofthe-art facility, they set out to create a space for wellness and collaboration. After Hurricane Helene, that vision expanded to meet a new community need. The Summit Pickleball in Boone emerged as a steadfast pillar of hope, transforming its courts into a dynamic disaster relief hub, embodying the essence of community partnership.

Within days after the hurricane, The Summit swiftly suspended its operations and opened its doors to serve as a central drop-off point for hurricane relief supplies. The facility became a lifeline and a hub for donations, which came in from across the country, and for local partnerships with Watauga County High School,

ANDY HILL

MovementMor tgagehonorsTOP 50 RE ALTORS

Angela McLean of Movement Mortgage held theseventh annual High Countr yTop 50 eventto celebratethe area’s toprealtors.McLeanstarted theevent,whichtookplace on May 21 at Firerock Station, to recognize excellence in therealestate industry in Aver yand Watauga counties.

Data from theHighCountry Association of Realtors Multiple ListingSer vices determines the50 topvolumeproducersinsales from 2024. McLean has been amortgageoriginatorfor more than 20 years in theHighCountry.She workswithmany realtors andhighlighted theimportanceofhaving good relationshipswiththem.

“Ifwedon’t do ourjob on thefrontend,whichis trulyapprovingacustomer, they couldbedriving around all weekendwithsomeone whomight not be approved fora loan.Soit’simportant to have a good reputation with therealestatecommunity,” McLean said McLean said shestarted theevent because

TOP50REALTORS

1. TraciArtus -RealtyOne Group Results-Boone

2. JessicaAuten -Premier Sotheby’s InternationalRealty- Banner Elk

3. Mary Baker -Keller Williams High Countr y

4. MorganBeck-Herdklotz -Premier Sotheby’sInternational RealtyBanner Elk

5. Samantha Benfield -Keller Williams High Countr y

6. Sarah Berr y -Keller Williams High Countr y

7. EmilyBish -FoscoeRealty& Development

8. Trey Boggs -FoscoeRealty& Development

9. Hope Caroselli -BlueRidgeRealty& Inv. Boone895

10. Burr Collier -James B. Collier

11.Linda Cramblit -BlueRidgeRealty& Inv. -BannerElk

12. Matt de Camara -Boone Real Estate

13. Madison Doble -Keller Williams High Countr y

&TOP 10 RE ALTORTEAMS IN THEHIGH COUNTRY

realtors in Watauga andAvery County helpdrive theeconomy andbefore theHighCountry Top 50, they didn’t have an eventwhere they were recognized.

“They don’treallyhaveanevent like this at all like whereeverybodycan gettogetherand come together andcelebrate. Imean, they might have things in their ownoffices, butasawhole,thisis theonlytypeofanevent like this,” McLean said McLean said that shewas lookingfor ward to the fellowship andseeingpeopletogethercelebrating

“ParticularlywithHelene, Ifeellikewehave even more of areasontocelebrate.Justseeingthe smiles on people’s faces andthe good timesthat they have,I mean,theyneed to do this more often,” McLean said

The event’stheme this year andin2024 wascasino. Brittney Tensi, whoisinchargeofmarketing forthe event, said realtors “rollthe dice ever yyear in real estate, so we want to make sure they canwin bigtonight.”

14. EanFaison -Storied Real Estate

15. Joel Farthing -Boone Real Estate

16. Shyllene Fecteau -Appalachian Properties

17. PeterFoote -Engel &Volkers Banner Elk

18. BrandonFreyer -Keller Williams High Countr y

19. Jaco Gerbrands -Allen Tate Real Estate -Blowing Rock

20. Cindy Giarrusso -BlueR idgeRealty &Investments BeechMountain

21. Leah Grove -FoscoeRealty& Development

22. Justin Hackler -Boone Realty

23. JayHarrill -FoscoeRealty& Development

24. John Heinlein -BlueRidgeRealty& Inv. -BannerElk

25. MargaretHolder -Keller Williams High Countr y

26. GloKearns -RE/MAXRealtyGroup

27. Ronald Kent -EXP Realty LLC

28. MargoLenmark -Allen Tate Realtors Boone

29. Christy Lombardozzi -Keller Williams High Countr y

30. Sarah Long -828 Real Estate

31. Corrinne Loucks -828 Real Estate

Rick FosterofElk RiverRealty—whichisalso asponsor—has atte nded theevent ever yyearand said he looksfor ward to networking.Realtor Amy Pepinhas attended theevent multiple timesand enjoys gettingtomeetnew people.She said she enjoys workingwithpeople, whichisone of her favorite aspects of beingarealtor.She said she even has clientswho have become closefriends shetravels with.Realtor LindaCramblitsaidshe lookedfor ward to having funand gettinga break from work

The eventproceedsfrom casino chipsand additional food anddrink sales went to theChildren’s CouncilofWatauga. AccordingtoChildren’s CouncilFundraisingand Outreach CoordinatorVirginiaFord,the councilprovides various resources to supportlocal children, parents, caretakersand theearly educationworkforce.

32. Robert Novacek -Blowing Rock Properties, Inc

33. Lauren Packard -Keller Williams High Countr y

34. AmyPepin -Premier Sotheby’s InternationalRealty- Banner Elk

35. Rick Pifer -Hound Ears Real Estate

36. Stacie Pineda -Stacie Pineda Real Estate Group

37. Virginia Powell -Blowing Rock Real Estate,LLC

38. Nick Presnell -Storied Real Estate

39. JenQuattlebaum -FoscoeRealty& Development

40. Mike Quinto -Keller Williams High Countr y

41. Benjamin Ray -Client First Of The High Countr y

42. JonathanRivers -Premier Sotheby’s InternationalRealty- Banner Elk

43. DerekRowley -Premier Sotheby’s InternationalRealty- Banner Elk

44. Allison Schoen -Eagles Nest Realty LLC

45. Trac ySimms -BlueRidgeRealty& Inv. -BannerElk

46. Christopher Spangler -Allen Tate Real Estate -Blowing Rock

47. SusanStelling -EXP Realty LLC

Angela McLean Senior Loan Officer, Movement Mortgage

774 EKingStreet, Suite1A, Boone,

NMLS #826818 (828) 964-0260 angela.mclean@movement.com

48. ScottWarren -Boone Realty

49. Roxanne Weavil -RE/MAXRealty Group

50. Sarah Whitfield -Premier Sotheby’s InternationalRealty- Banner Elk TOP10REALTOR TE AMS

1. BlueRidgeMountainClub- Blue RidgeMountainClub

2. CarlsonTeam-Allen Tate Blowing Rock

3. Elk RiverRealty-Elk RiverRealty

4. Leslie EasonRealEstate-Keller Williams High Countr y

5. Linville Ridge-Premier Sotheby’s InternationalRealty-LinvilleRidge

6. Mountain ElevationRealtyGroupKeller Williams High Countr y

7. Mountain LifeRealty-Keller Williams High Countr y

8. RezvaniProperty Group- Keller Williams High Countr y

9. Steele GarrettTeam-Premier Sotheby’sInternational RealtyBlowingRock

10. VincentTeam-BerkshireHathaway -Vincent

Flexible Financing Options Tailored for You

PurchaseLoans –Primary homes, second homes &investment properties

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Construction Loans –Build from the ground up

FHA, VA &USDA* Loans –Flexible, affordableoptions backed by experience

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Movement Mortgage. Your Lender for Life.

Scan Here to VisitMy Website! ANGELA MCLEAN

Senior Loan Officer |NMLS826818 (828) 964-0260

angela.mclean@movement.com lo.movement.com/angela.mclean

volunteers, and other donation centers, including Stateline Resources and Cornerstone Summit Church. Together, these efforts helped ensure that essential items such as food, clothing, and medical supplies reached those who needed them.

Beyond serving as a collection point, The Summit played a crucial role in coordinating efforts to ensure that resources reached the most affected areas. Their commitment to facilitating connections and providing a space for collaboration was instrumental in the region’s recovery efforts.

This award recognizes The Summit Pickleball not only for their immediate response to the crisis, but also for their ongoing dedication to community engagement and partnership.

EVERGREEN AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY MOUNTAINTRUE

The everGREEN Award for Sustainability is presented to a business, organization, project, or person who has furthered the inclusion and integration of sustainable development principles. This annual award is sponsored by Mast General Store.

MountainTrue has been a steadfast advocate for environmental stewardship in the High Country for a decade, seamlessly integrating sustainability into both its mission and daily operations. Late last year, the organization intensified its commitment through a series of impactful initiatives that not only addressed immediate environmental challenges but also laid the groundwork for longterm ecological resilience.

After Hurricane Helene, MountainTrue mobilized quickly, launching the MountainStrong Recovery Fund, which raised nearly $60,000 less than a month after the storm. These funds facilitated the deployment of chainsaw crews to clear debris, well-testing kit distribution, restore access to homes, and initiate broader cleanup efforts in parks and public spaces. Moreover, MountainTrue partnered with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality to establish a river debris cleanup program, aiming to remove debris from over 150 miles of river across Western North Carolina, including the Watauga River. These initiatives not only addressed immediate post-storm challenges but also fostered

See COMMUNITY on page 49

AMY AND MIKE FORRESTER

community engagement and preparedness.

MountainTrue’s advocacy also extended to legislative arenas, where it championed policies aimed at reducing stormwater pollution, repairing rural septic systems, and securing state trail designations. These initiatives are pivotal in promoting sustainable development and ensuring the protection of natural resources for future generations.

Through these multifaceted efforts, MountainTrue exemplifies the integration of sustainable development principles into community engagement, environmental restoration, and policy advocacy.

ELIZABETH YOUNG AWARD FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AMY AND MIKE FORRESTER

The Elizabeth Young Award for Community Leadership is presented to a person or organization whose leadership has been pivotal to maintaining the health and vibrancy of the community. The award recognizes leadership that rises above the work of any one business or agency to unite and mobilize business, government, non-profit, and civic partners toward an improved quality of life for the entire community. This award is sponsored annually by High Street Insurance.

Amy and Mike Forrester have transformed FizzEd into more than just a restaurant; they’ve cultivated a vibrant community hub that reflects their deep commitment to Boone’s well-being. Since opening in February 2024, FizzEd has become a gathering place where the community comes together to celebrate, connect, and

support one another. The Forrester’s vision was clear: to create a space that is welcoming, inclusive, and full of energy, a place where everyone feels at home.

Their dedication to the community was especially evident during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. In the face of widespread devastation, Amy and Mike opened FizzEd’s doors to provide hot meals at no charge to first responders, linemen, and anyone else in need. FizzEd was also among the first to use gift card donations as a means to provide for the community, raising over $16,000 and feeding over 1,000 people in the first two weeks after the storm. In the months that followed, they received donations from all over the world to feed the community, covering the cost of over 3,000 hot meals. Their selfless actions were recognized when they received the Dogwood Award from then Attorney General Josh Stein, who commended them for using their resources to help neighbors and keep staff employed during the crisis.

Beyond their hurricane relief efforts, the Forrester’s have consistently used FizzEd as a platform to support local initiatives and foster community engagement. They host a variety of weekly, monthly, and specialty events, including trivia nights, open mic sessions, and live music, creating a lively atmosphere that draws people together. Their events often highlight the work of local nonprofits, businesses, and producers.

Through their leadership and unwavering dedication, Amy and Mike Forrester have exemplified what it means to be pillars of the community. For their exceptional leadership and commitment to the collective well-being of the community, the Chamber is proud to present the Elizabeth Young Award for Community Leadership to Amy and Mike Forrester.

Where are they now?

Past community award winners played key roles in Hurricane Helene recovery

BY BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Previous Spirit of Boone community award winners played key roles in helping the High Country recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, showcasing why they were honored in the first place. Here’s where they are now:

2024 Kathy Crutchfield Citizen of the Year: Tina Houston

Tina has continued to make an impact in the High Country this past year. She opened Pearl’s Kitchen + Tiny Market in Valle Crucis, bringing a new local dining option to the community, and partnered with Lowe’s to support regional recovery efforts. On November 26, Lowe’s distributed 3,000 family-style Thanksgiving meals prepared by Reid’s Cafe & Catering Co. in Banner Elk, part of a regional initiative that fed more than 12,000 people across Asheville, Banner Elk, Boone, Marion, and Weaverville. Tina’s efforts show how local businesses can drive both economic revival and meaningful community support.

2024 EVERGREEN AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY:

RIVERGIRL FISHING COMPANY

RiverGirl Fishing Company has been at the center of recovery efforts in the High Country and has reached every corner of Western North Carolina. Owners Kelly McCoy and Renata Dos Santos organized debris cleanup, distributed firewood, generators, and food, and coordinated volunteers to support neighbors in need. The business represented the High Country at Governor Stein’s announcement of a $30 million small-business grant program and later joined First Lady Anna Stein for #WNCOpenForBusiness Week, leading a New River canoe tour alongside other outfitters to encourage tourism.

2024 BAKER/JONES WOMAN OF THE YEAR: TALIA FREEMAN

Talia has been instrumental in Beech Mountain’s recovery and growth as a year-round tourism economic driver for the region during a time of recovery. The 2024-2025 ski season was incredibly successful, bringing over 200,000 visitors and employing more than 400 seasonal workers. Building on this momentum, she played a pivotal role in the 2025 Beech Mountain Summer Concert Series, which featured sold-out headliners like Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit, Lake Street Dive, and Charley Crockett. This year’s series was the most successful to date, drawing large crowds and significantly boosting the local economy.

2024 Alfred Adams Award for Economic Development: Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute

When Valle Crucis School students were displaced due to the flooding of their building, CCC&TI quickly opened its Watauga Campus to host 120 middle schoolers, while the Valle Crucis Conference Center welcomed the younger grades, bringing much-needed stability during a time of uncertainty. Building on that partnership, CCC&TI’s Foundation has now guaranteed scholarships covering up to five semesters of tuition for all current Valle Crucis middle school students — offering them a thoughtful bridge from disruption to opportunity.

2024 ELIZABETH YOUNG AWARD FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP: LINDSEY SULLIVAN

Lindsey continues to advance workplace wellness across the High Country through her leadership with AppHealthCare and the STABLE Workplaces initiative. STABLE — standing for Staff Training and Business Leadership for Evolving Workplaces — serves as a one-stop hub for local employers to access tailored staff training and resources, including bystander training, naloxone awareness, and support for creating Recovery Friendly Workplaces. Through AppHealthCare’s innovative outreach, including its new mobile health unit that brings services directly to businesses and underserved areas, Lindsey is helping ensure that vital health resources are accessible to every corner of the community.

Past community award winners played key roles in helping the community recover from Hurricane Helene.

2024 WADE BROWN AWARD FOR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

COME BACK SHACK

A locally founded favorite, Come Back Shack continues to give back through regular fundraising nights that support area nonprofits and local partners. After Hurricane Helene, they quickly mobilized to provide meals for community members in need. This past year, they expanded their footprint with a new downtown Boone location, offering another spot for locals and visitors to enjoy while staying true to their tradition of community care.

2023 ELIZABETH YOUNG AWARD FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP: LISA COOPER

Lisa Cooper and Mast General Store have expanded the Mountain Strong Helene recovery initiative into a powerful force across Western North Carolina. Through apparel and sticker sales, the campaign has raised more than $160,000, with donations supporting clean water and resilient forests through MountainTrue, small business recovery via the Boone and Asheville Chambers, housing equity through BeLoved Asheville, arts and creative economy in the River Arts District, teaching resources at Valle Crucis School, and Main Street revitalization in Spruce Pine. Under Lisa’s leadership, Mast has shown how a community-rooted business can leverage its history and reach to strengthen the entire region.

2023 EVERGREEN AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY: APPALCART

AppalCART continues to lead in eco-friendly regional transit. This year, they unveiled North Carolina’s first public doubledecker bus — an Alexander Dennis Enviro500 that sits 13.5 feet tall and carries over 100 passengers — effectively doing the work of two buses while cutting fuel use by about 25%. Fully grant-funded, the bus launched on the high-demand Pop 105 route, offering efficient service from Appalachian State to downtown Boone. Carrying more than 1.7 million riders annually, AppalCART remains a backbone of transportation in the High Country, showing how bold, sustainable transit solutions can sustain a community.

2023 DAN MEYER COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD: BROADBAND

EXPANSION WITH BLUE RIDGE ENERGY, SKYLINE/SKYBEST, AND WATAUGA COUNTY

When Hurricane Helene hit, the fiber network built by Blue Ridge Energy, SkyLine/SkyBest, and Watauga County became a critical lifeline, keeping residents, businesses, and emergency responders connected during recovery efforts. What started as a proactive investment in unserved communities turned into essential infrastructure for crisis communication and coordination. Today, the partners continue working together to expand access across Watauga, strengthening both day-to-day connectivity and the region’s ability to weather future challenges.

BY ZACH COLBURN

When it comes to outdoor activities in Boone, there’s no shortage of options.

And the best part is, a lot of them can be done year-round, regardless of the weather forecast.

Below are just a few popular activities, including some yearround options, available in Boone where residents can enjoy them.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

The Boone Greenway Trail is an ideal starting point for true beginners. The Greenway offers a single-track trail as well as an assortment of smooth and leisurely paved riverside paths. However, it is often crowded with people walking or running the trail.

For those looking to make the step up, Rocky Knob Park is one of the most popular mountain biking destinations in the area. Located just a few miles from downtown Boone, right off U.S. 421, this park features more than 11 miles of trails that wind through forested hills.

The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of difficulty levels, ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging for even the most experienced riders.

Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park has five main trails: the 1.6mile Rocky Branch Trail loop, the 1-mile Middle Earth Trail, nearly 4-mile Boat Rock Loop, the downhill PBJ Trail, Ol’ Hoss, plus more than a dozen side trails and connectors and four separate skills areas.

Rocky Knob also offers a state-of-the-art paved pump track

PHOTO BY ZACH COLBURN

A mountain biker takes in one of the trails at Rocky Knob Bike Park.

From ADVENTURE page 54

near the parking lot with several different types of ramps and small hills, making it ideal for getting some air and trying out different bike tricks. It’s also a good introduction for new riders, both young and old, to get acclimated to what they could see on the trails.

SKIING

With the beginning of ski season approaching, several facilities across the area are gearing up for the season. Appalachian Ski Mtn. in the Boone/Blowing Rock area is a place that will see an influx of tourists each ski season.

See ADVENTURE on page 56

PHOTO BY ZACH COLBURN

Appalachian Ski Mountain has previously served as the home to the Southeast U.S. Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding — for Special Olympics. It will host the games again in early February.

From ADVENTURE page 55

Formerly known as the Blowing Rock Ski Lodge, it was the first ski area in Northwestern North Carolina and the second-oldest ski area in the state.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding on one of the 12 slopes, ASM also offers an ice skating rink as well as Ski and Snowboard rentals and clothing rentals.

To learn more about Appalachian Ski Mountain, visit https:// appskimtn.com/.

HIKING/PARKS

Hiking and parks in Boone offer plenty of options for any level of activity, and the Boone Greenway is at the top of the list.

This fully accessible trail is either paved or gravel, and mostly flat. The Greenway welcomes walkers and runners, cyclists and wheelchairs, strollers and hikers. It follows and crosses the South Fork of the New River through open meadows and colorful forests.

The trail may be a little tame for serious hikers intent on high adventure, but it’s perfect for novice hikers, families, or anyone wanting to sample the beauty of the Boone Area without going to extremes. Dogs must be on a leash (and picked up after), and rollerbladers and bikers should yield to walkers and runners.

It will one day connect to the Middle Fork Greenway, a multiuse recreational trail being developed to link Blowing Rock to Boone. This trail will provide residents and visitors of all ages with safe and healthy access to the natural world while protecting the environment and strengthening our local economy.

The Middle Fork Greenway is a Blue Ridge Conservancy project in partnership with the Town of Blowing Rock, Town of Boone and Watauga County.

Clawson-Burnley Park is sandwiched between the South Fork of the New River and the Boone Greenway. Two picnic shelters and several dispersed picnic tables can be found at the park.

There is also a short gravel walking path alongside the Greenway, which winds around a thriving wetland with educational signage.

The trailhead at the opposite, most rural end of the Greenway, beside the Boone Wastewater Treatment Plant, is easy to reach from U.S. 421. Head east on U.S. 421 out of town past the New Market Shopping Center and the N.. 194 intersection. Turn right just before the New River Bridge on New River Hills Road. Curve around with the river and turn left across a low-water bridge at Casey Lane. Parking is on the right.

The most urban part of the Greenway can be accessed near the Watauga Community Recreation Center.

TUBING

Whether it’s on the river during the warm summer months or on the slopes in the winter months, the activity of tubing can take place all over Boone.

The New River is one of the oldest and most prestigious rivers and High Mountain Expeditions offers the unique opportunity to float this pure, clear, free-flowing river. Water temperatures are inviting and offer relief from the hot summer sun.

The water depth ranges from two to eight feet, making the New River the perfect river tubing trip for all family members, ages three and up.

Tubing options can be found at Wahoo’s Adventures, Rivergirl Fishing Company, Appalachian Tubing Company and Boone Outdoor Adventures.

During the winter months, both Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain Resorts offer snow tubing, and you can even snow tubing at the largest snow tubing park in the Southeast, Hawksnest.

Hawksnest offers up to 30 lanes, 400 to 1,000 feet long, with tubing in four separate park areas.

PHOTO BY ZACH COLBURN

A skier competes in the Southeast U.S. Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding for Special Olympics.

PICKLEBALL

Growing at an exponential rate in popularity, Pickleball has found a big home in Boone, which is evident by the indoor and outdoor options of the sport.

The recently constructed pickleball courts at the Watauga Community Recreation Center give residents the opportunity to participate in the sport during the outdoor season, in addition to the four indoor courts.

The outdoor courts are first-come, first-served. To use the indoor courts, you need to sign a list in advance. The indoor courts are free with a membership, or are available for use with a day pass. For those who are coming solo, a rotation of teams happens at the end of a game for all-inclusive fun.

The Summit is a member-based indoor facility that offers free beginner clinics and clinics for intermediate and advanced players. They also offer more than 60 clinics and round robins throughout the year, as well as tournaments and leagues to go along with event hosting.

The Summit offers four different tiers of memberships, ranging from bronze (which is free but has a higher charge for open play, along with any reservation made), all the way to Platinum, with Open Play and Gold in between.

To learn more about The Summit, visit their facility or call (828) 532-5442, or visit https://thesummitpb.com/

WATAUGA COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER

The Watauga Community Recreation Center offers a variety of physical activities, both indoor and outdoor.

Indoors, paying members can enjoy the benefits of the WCRC pool and indoor splash pad, a full fitness center, multiple courts for basketball and volleyball, and an indoor walking track.

In addition to pickleball courts, residents can enjoy the outdoor perks of 26 multi-purpose athletic fields, tennis courts, and the Boone Greenway Trail, which can be accessed from the parking lot.

PHOTO BY ZACH COLBURN

Pickleball enthusiasts compete in a tournament at The Summit pickleball facility.

Boone Events offer loads of entertainment

BY LUKE

BY ZACH COLBURN

There’s no shortage of regular family-friendly events that take place in Boone on an annual basis. According to Mark Freed, the Town of Boone’s Director of Cultural Resources, some events even take place every week.

Two events that Freed mentioned were a weekly drum circle on the lawn of the Jones House on Wednesday evenings, starting at 6 p.m.— weather and daylight permitting.

Another event to take place at the Jones house is a weekly oldtime jam session on Thursday nights from 7 to 10 p.m.

“People should check it out because it is a free and informal way to experience some of the musical traditions of the area,” Freed said of the old-time jam session. “People who come to play are not paid; rather, they come to play for the enjoyment of sharing the tunes — they sit in circles and talk about the tunes and the weather. The public is welcome to come and join in playing or just to listen.”

FIRST FRIDAY

Starting at 5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, new exhibits are featured during an art reception at the Jones House.

“People should come see local artists and artist collectives display their work — plus free snacks and drinks,” said Freed.

During the evenings of every first Friday of the month (except January), downtown comes alive with the First Friday Art Crawl. Along with the exhibits at the Jones House, art exhibits

PHOTO

BARBER

The Boone Holiday Parade is an annual event in December

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and wine tastings take place in various downtown shops and restaurants.

SUMMER CONCERTS ON THE LAWN

From June to August, free weekly concerts start at 5:30 p.m. on Fridays in what has become a weekly summer tradition at the Jones House.

“It was the first in the area, which now features many regular weekly free outdoor concerts,” said Freed. “The Jones House helped start the trend, and it remains one of the best for listening to music, in addition to being downtown near restaurants and nightlife.”

The Jones House also plays host to the annual Doc Watson Day concert, which honors the life and legacy of western North

Carolina’s most beloved flatpicking guitarist and folk icon. Established in 2011 following the unveiling of the Doc Watson statue on King Street, Doc Watson Day is a Boone tradition, celebrating the profound impact of Watson’s music, values and Appalachian roots. Other venues in town also host Doc Watson Day events, including the Appalachian Theatre.

BOONERANG MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL

Taking place the third full weekend in June, the Boonerang Music and Arts Festival is a free-to-attend downtown street festival that offers something for everyone, celebrating the arts, food, drink, and music with Boone Connections.

The fourth annual festival is scheduled to take place June 1926, 2026.

From EVENTS page 60

PHOTO BY ZACH COLBURN

Boonerang brings back thousands of community members for music and art. See EVENTS on page 63

The event features performances and activities throughout the day at multiple downtown locations, including street stages on South and North Depot Streets and a stage at the Jones House. The festival continues to grow each year as it brings together community members from all over.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

The Jones House Cultural Center is a hub for many holiday events as the community comes out for the holidays.

Freed stated that “people should come out to experience the small-town feel for our community events.”

Most recently, the Jones House served as hosts for Boone Boo! — a downtown Trick-or-Treating festival that took place on Oct. 31.

The central part of King Street closes to accommodate trickor-treaters and to make room for some surprise guests and performances.

Spooky music, inflatables, and plenty of costumes and treats are always part of the annual downtown Halloween event.

The 2025 Boone Holiday Parade is slated to take place on Dec. 13, starting at 6 p.m. on King Street.

2025 is the second year that the holiday parade will take place at night. The town also hosts a tree lighting during the December First Friday event.

A parade with floats, cars, marchers, and performers to help get everyone into the festive mood as they light up downtown Boone. Before and during the parade, observers can enjoy free

PHOTO BY ZACH COLBURN

The Hospitality House shows off their patriotism during the 2025 July 4th Parade.

hot chocolate and treats on the Jones House lawn; then stick around until the end to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus.

The annual Buskers Fest returned this past September after being cancelled last year due to Hurricane Helene.

A free, family-friendly festival, packed with live music, handson art, raffles, and plenty of local eats, is an open-air celebration of the arts put on by the Town of Boone and the Watauga Arts Council.

The annual Town of Boone 4th of July Parade and celebration takes place to celebrate Independence Day, with free parking in town-owned lots, with the parade starting at 11 a.m.

In addition to floats and plenty of celebrations of patriotism, parade-goers can come hang out on the Jones House lawn for free refreshments, including watermelon, lemonade, and cake from Stick Boy Bread Company. They can also remain on the lawn for the 1872 Award Presentation.

The day concludes with an annual fireworks display at Clawson-Burnley Park on the Boone Greenway at dusk.

OTHER EVENTS

Around Boone, plenty of other events take place throughout the year — offering fun for all.

Make sure to check out the weekly Watauga County Farmers Markets at Horn in the West on Saturdays from April to

November or the King Street Market on Tuesdays from May to October at 126 Poplar Grove Connector. The Winter Farmers Market takes place from December to March at 252 Poplar Grove Rd on Saturdays.

Each summer, Beech Mountain Resort hosts a summer concert series that brings musicians from all over to the top of the Mountain for great music. Bands performing at the music series in the past include Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Lake Street Dive, Charley Crockett with 49 Winchester and The Red Clay Strays. Many times the concerts sell out.

Another great weekly event in the summer is the Music in the Valle at Valle Crucis Community Park. Located in Valle Crucis, the park presents free concerts every Friday in the summer featuring local and regional bands. The park just asks for donations to continue its operations.

Appalachian State University also has plenty of events that take place throughout the year — from student performances and nationally recognized artists to a free speaker series and free events in the student union.

A highlight of what the university offers is the Appalachian Arts series, presented by Appalachian State University. It enriches the region by presenting world-class performances that support the university’s teaching mission and enhance the quality of life across the High Country and beyond. For more information on the events it puts on each year, visit schaefercenter.appstate.edu/appalachian-arts/.

From EVENTS page 63

PHOTO BY NICK FOGLEMAN

The Jones House Community Center as a hub of sorts for multiple events in Downtown Boone, including the annual Doc Watson Day event.

Living in a college town

BY MOSS BRENNAN

When fall arrives in Boone, the mountain town transforms. Students flood King Street, game day traffic snarls the roads, and the energy of 18,000 college students mingles with mountain air.

Downtown Boone sits right next to Appalachian State University’s campus, and the connection is impossible to miss. From the shops on King Street selling App State T-shirts and other goodies to the traffic football game days bring, the university’s presence shapes daily life here.

Founded as Watauga Academy in 1899 and later known as the Appalachian State Teachers College, the university is now one of the largest schools in the UNC collegiate system.

As of fall 2025, App State has an enrollment of 21,758 students — a 1.1% increase over fall 2024. However, not all of them are in Boone. The Boone campus enrolls 18,124 students — the fewest in the last five years.

The other students are located at the App State Hickory Campus (523) and through the university’s online programs (3,216).

But App State offers more than just student energy — it brings cultural and educational opportunities that many small mountain towns don’t have. The university hosts public lectures, author readings, and educational forums throughout the year, many of them free and open to the community. These include the University Forum Lecture Series, Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writers Series, and numerous timely and informative events organized by faculty and students.

Art and music lovers benefit too. The university features exhibitions and workshops in the visual arts, a performing arts series with world-renowned visiting artists, and productions from the university’s highly acclaimed Hayes School of Music and Department of Theatre and Dance. The university also hosts a nationally recognized summer arts festival and craft workshops for all ages.

Living in Boone also comes with a pastime that many love: college football. When App State has a home football game, Boone fills up as people from all over travel up the mountain to watch the Mountaineers on the gridiron. The football team is one of 17 varsity teams at the university and has seen success over the years. In 2022, ESPN’s College Gameday television program came to App State for the first time in the school’s history, drawing national attention to Boone and bringing an electric atmosphere to town.

The football team is under new direction as head coach

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Beyond entertainment, App State students, faculty and staff contribute countless volunteer hours to area nonprofits and community organizations. Many programs at App State focus on community outreach, including support for families of children with special needs, arts education and

swim and lifeguard classes, support for starting a business, the Communication Disorders Clinic, public viewing nights at the Dark Sky Observatory, fitness testing, summer camps for children, trail upkeep and maintenance, after-school programs and more.

For more information about App State, visit appstate.edu.

From COLLEGE page 66

PHOTO COURTESY APP STATE ATHLETICS

Going to an App State football game offers stunning views in the fall.

App State’s sprawling campus sits right next

Meeting needs:

Health care in Boone grows with the community

BY MOSS BRENNAN

As with many small towns, health care in Boone is always working to improve as the needs of the community change.

For Boone, Watauga County and the immediate surrounding area, Watauga Medical Center is the main hospital. Located at 336 Deerfield Road, WMC has been recognized with multiple awards in recent years. UNC Health Appalachian operates the hospital and many area practices.

In January 2025, Nathan Nipper took the reins as UNC Health Appalachian’s president and CEO. Nipper joined UNC Health Appalachian in December 2022 and has worked as a health leader for nearly three decades. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and a Master of Business Administration and Master of Health Administration from Georgia State University. Nipper also completed an administrative residency at Floyd Medical Center in Rome, Ga. UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprising nearly

20 hospitals and more than 900 clinics, along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM).

WMC is one of five UNC Health hospitals across North Carolina that have been recognized for providing top maternity care by the U.S. News & World Report. U.S. News named the

PHOTO BY LUKE BARBER

The Da Vinci 5 surgical robot at Watauga Medical Center mimics a surgeon’s wrists, access hard to reach places, improve visibility, make smaller incisions and complete surgery 100% within the abdomen, among other innovations.

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hospitals as “High Performing” for maternity care, which is the highest award a hospital can earn as part of the U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care annual study.

In December 2024, Watauga Medical Center earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety.

Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.

Earlier in 2024, Becker’s Hospital Review listed Watauga Medical Center as one of the top five hospitals for cardiology care in North Carolina. The rankings were based on patient outcome data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services provider analysis and inpatient hospital reviews from 2020 through 2022.

The region also benefits from the first Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program, which came about through a partnership between OASIS Inc. and UNC Health Appalachian, developed in response to longstanding gaps in services for survivors of sexual assault. The core of the new SANE program

lies not in technology alone but in its approach to care. Nurses are trained in trauma-informed communication, which is not typically included in traditional nursing education or law enforcement training.

The hospital has also recently introduced a new initiative to help new mothers have the safest and healthiest start to their postpartum journey.

PHOTO BY JOSH FLOYD COURTESY UNC HEALTH APPALACHIAN

WMC staff pose for a picture in one of the six new operating rooms in the new wing, which opened in March 2023.

From HEALTHCARE page 70

72 patients who give birth at WMC will now receive an “I Gave Birth” bracelet to wear for up to 10 weeks after delivery.

While most women recover from childbirth without complications, it’s essential to recognize that emergencies can happen, often outside the hospital setting, according to UNC Health Appalachian. The bracelet serves as a gentle, daily reminder for new mothers to monitor their health and be aware

of common postpartum warning signs. To learn more about the program, visit youtu.be/xgWXuXQd-d0.

To view all of UNC Health Appalachian’s locations in and around Boone, visit www.unchealthappalachian.org/locations/.

Boone also has private providers, including Appalachian Primary Care, Mountain Laurel Family Practice, Hopscotch Primary, High Country Community Health, AppHealthCare, and the Hunger and Health Coalition Free Clinic.

PHOTO COURTESY UNC HEALTH APPALACHIAN

An aerial view of Watauga Medical Center in Boone.

A first timers’ guide to Boone

BY EXPLORE BOONE

Known as the Heart of the High Country, Boone is perfectly positioned to offer endless mountain adventures and awe-inspiring experiences just a short drive (or hike) away from your accommodations. Here’s a must-do guide for your first visit to Boone:

KING STREET

Historic downtown Boone is where visitors and locals alike gather over locally-roasted coffee, peruse the shelves of a centuries-old general store, meet up for a movie at the historic Appalachian Theatre, and listen to the sounds of many genres flowing into King Street. The very first stop any traveler should make is at the downtown Boone visitor center, located a short walk up Grand Boulevard, behind the Jones House Cultural Center. From there, enjoy a free concert at the Jones House, browse the wares of local craftspeople at several art galleries, and enjoy a wide range of culinary creations at various restaurants. Make sure you pay a visit to our local music legend, Arthel “Doc” Watson, memorialized in bronze at the corner of Depot and King Streets. If you time it right, the entire

community will be paying homage to this seven-time Grammy Award winner during Doc Watson Day.

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

The Boone area section of America’s Favorite Drive offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States. Spanning from around mile marker (MM) 270 to just past MM

PHOTO COURTESY EXPLORE BOONE

Avid mountain bikers will want to head to Rocky Knob for a challenging progression trail system and freshly-paved pump track.

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317, there are countless hiking trails and scenic overlooks to be enjoyed. Some of the most popular hiking trails in our area include Beacon Heights, Rough Ridge, and Linville Falls. For leisurely adventurers, Moses Cone and Julian Price Memorial Parks are laid-back alternatives. Make a stop at Grandfather Mountain to learn about our Appalachian ecosystem, view several wildlife habitats, and cross the iconic Mile-High Swinging Bridge. Make sure to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway website for the most up-to-date road closures. #PreserveTheAwe: Stick to clearly marked trails and avoid crowded areas to help preserve our stunning, but delicate, ecology for future generations!

FARMERS MARKETS

The first settlers of the Boone area were mostly isolated from the rest of North Carolina, emphasizing the necessity of growing crops and cultivating the rich soils of mountain valleys. Fastforward 100 years and you can still find some of these farms selling fresh produce year-round at one of our seasonal farmers’ markets. From March through November, the producer-only Watauga County Farmers Market exemplifies the neighborly spirit Boone is known for, amidst live music and the smell of fresh cheese biscuits drifting on the cool mountain breeze. For those who can’t make Saturday mornings, the King Street Market runs from May through October on Tuesday afternoons

From FIRST page 74

PHOTO BY LESLIE RESTIVO | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION

The Blue Ridge Parkway has entrances just minutes from Boone.

in downtown Boone. During the snowier months of December through March, the Boone Winter Market supplies residents and visitors with an indoor connection to a wide variety of local goods.

THRILLING ADVENTURES

Calling all adrenaline junkies! If the 40-foot climbing tower downtown didn’t tip you off, the Boone area is home to a world of thrills and exciting excursions. Spend a day on the rapids with one of our whitewater rafting outfitters, zoom down the side of a mountain on NC’s first alpine coaster, or race along the treetops and across wildflower-filled meadows with a zipline adventure. Avid mountain bikers will want to head to Rocky Knob for a challenging progression trail system and freshly-paved pump track.

APPALACHIAN STATE

With a student population greater than Boone’s local population and university classrooms just steps from downtown, this state college is hard to ignore. So, don’t! App State’s rolling campus has abundant green space, a beautiful creekside park (Durham Park) perfect for picnics, and its very own Nature Preserve complete with hiking trails leading to wind turbines. Enjoy performances from internationally touring acts at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts or revel with fellow football fans at the southeast’s most picturesque stadium, Kidd Brewer. Fun Fact: Nationally recognized bands like Rainbow Kitten Surprise and the Jonathan Scales Fourchestra got their start at Appalachian State’s Hayes School of Music.

DAN’L BOONE INN

We have heard countless stories of folks making a trip to Boone specifically for this southern, family-style dining experience, and there’s a good reason. Dan’l Boone Inn resides in one of the town’s oldest buildings; built first as a family home, then serving as Boone’s first hospital, eventually repurposed to house college students, and finally becoming the landmark restaurant we all know and love in 1959. After a day filled with adventures, sit down to a glass of sweet tea, plates reminiscent of grandma’s finest porcelain, and large serving bowls overflowing with crispy fried chicken garnished with every country-style side you can think of. We guarantee you won’t leave hungry.

SKI AREAS

Boone is the preferred place to eat, play, and stay for those who love to spend their days on the slopes at nearby Beech Mountain Resort, Sugar Mountain Resort, and Appalachian Ski Mountain. Due to our high elevation and location in northwest North Carolina, Boone enjoys an average yearly snowfall of around 30 inches. If winter sports aren’t your thing, scenic chairlift rides and mountain bike trails are also available at Beech and Sugar during the summer months.

BOONE GREENWAY

Just minutes from downtown, the Boone Greenway provides a beautiful, fully accessible, and relaxed escape into nature.

From

FIRST page 77

Surrounded by lush forests and picturesque mountain peaks, the paved trail follows the sparkling South Fork New River for about two miles. Along the customizable trail system, you’ll encounter three bridges, a historic site, man-made wetlands, and multiple picnic areas. #PreserveTheAwe: We share this natural space with a plethora of wildlife, from whitetail deer to salamanders and even river otters. Do your part to keep wildlife wild by observing animals from a distance and keeping food or other garbage out of reach.

ABOUT EXPLORE BOONE

Explore Boone is the Watauga County District U Tourism Development Authority (WCTDA), a local tourism development authority, operating jointly with the Boone Tourism Development Authority, authorized by the state (North Carolina) and local government (Watauga County) to promote travel, tourism, and corporate travel, sponsor tourist-related events, and activities, and finance tourism-related capital projects in Boone and the unincorporated areas of Watauga County, North Carolina. For more information, visit www.exploreboone.com.76

PHOTO COURTESY EXPLORE BOONE

The Boone Greenway is a great place to take a leisurely walk, go on a run, ride a bike or have a picnic. When it snows, it turns into a winter wonderland.

Boone’s Parks: Where community and nature connect

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

The Town of Boone draws residents and visitors for its community feel, mountain heritage and access to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Within the town limits, the town continues these traditions by supporting local parks and recreation opportunities.

“These are our community gathering spaces aside from schools and the churches,” Mark Freed, Boone’s Director of Cultural Resources, said. “The parks are really a central place, and we’re fortunate to have some really great ones here in the high country and in Boone.”

Boone is home to a variety of parks filled with green spaces, recreation equipment and events.

Freed said Daniel Boone Park is Boone’s most active park, celebrating the area’s culture, history and craftsmen. The park hosts the Watauga County Farmers Market every Saturday from April through November and is home to the Hickory

Ridge Homestead and the Horn in the West outdoor drama, held each summer at the Horn in the West Amphitheater.

Recent improvements include resurfaced parking areas, new accessibility pathways, and upcoming upgrades to the amphitheater, including the public restrooms. The Daniel Boone Native Gardens, also located within the park, continues to promote native plant conservation and public education.

Across the street, Boone Jaycee Park offers a familyfriendly green space with playground equipment, picnic shelters and easy access for visitors.

The Clawson-Burnley Park, known for its wetlands and wide-open fields, serves as the site for community races and Boone’s annual Fourth of July fireworks. The park also connects directly to Boone’s Greenway Trail.

“People come out to enjoy the Greenway on a regular basis,” Freed said.

The Town is currently working to revitalize the Rivers House Park. The park is one of Boone’s most historic and includes the historic Rivers House, once home to Rachel Rivers Coffey whose family founded the Watauga Democrat. The town, in partnership with the Blue Ridge Conservancy, is developing hiking trails and public amenities, including restrooms converted from the site’s old garage.

“It’s been really cool to see some things happening with that property,” Freed said.

neighborhood families.

Rivers Park is also slated as the trailhead for the Northern Peaks Trail, a regional hiking route planned to connect to Ashe County. Visitors can also stop by to enjoy the historic park and the sugar maple tree known locally as “Baby.”

Downtown, the Jones House Cultural Center remains a cornerstone of Boone’s cultural life. The property provides public restrooms, shaded picnic areas, a solar-powered shelter for phone charging, and a steady lineup of concerts and art exhibits.

Nearby, North Street Park offers a pocket green space featuring a community garden and a small playground. The Junaluska Park, just up the road, adds basketball courts, playground equipment and shaded lawns popular among

Just outside of town, the Howard Knob Park offers panoramic views of downtown Boone and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The six-acre site features picnic areas, restrooms, and wooded trails, and is currently under construction.

The $2.1 million project will add accessible trails, a redesigned overlook, expanded parking, shelter upgrades and a garden. Once completed, the park will be part of the Northern Peaks Trail.

Another park coming soon to the area is the Boone Gorge Park, off of Jordan V Cook Road. The park is a

From PARKS page 79

See PARKS on page 81

PHOTO COURTESY BRC

Officials broke ground on Boone Gorge Park in July 2025.

project of Blue Ridge Conservancy and is part of the Middle Fork Greenway.

This park, the closest to Boone off of Jordan V Cook Road, will include parking, restrooms, a timber frame pavilion, approximately one mile of trail, a boardwalk, wetlands, and river access, all within a natural setting. The area is also a popular river access.

“Boone Gorge Park on the Middle Fork Greenway will be more than just a place to walk or ride — it’s an investment in our community’s health,

See PARKS on page 82

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF BOONE

The Junaluska Park, located just above King Street, features basketball courts, children’s playground equipment, and a nice open field to picnic or play soccer.

economy, and quality of life. It connects neighbors, supports local businesses, and gives families a safe, beautiful space to enjoy the outdoors together,” said Braxton Eggers, Chairman of the Watauga County Board of Commissioners.

The MFG will one day connect Blowing Rock to Boone with a hiking, walking, bicycling trail, with parks scattered along the 6-mile corridor. The MFG is a project of Blue Ridge Conservancy in partnership with Watauga County and the towns of Blowing Rock and Boone.

Freed said Boone takes pride in balancing history, sustainability and accessibility in its park projects.

See PARKS on page 84

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF BOONE

Behind the Rivers House, a trail leads up the hill to “Baby,” a sugar maple that is a North Carolina Champion Tree and thought to be one of the largest in the state.

“We try to preserve as much as we can, from the natural history to the cultural resources to our historic buildings,” he said.

Boone’s parks play a vital role in both local life and tourism. Freed said visitors often arrive seeking museums and history, which Boone provides through its historic walking tours, free concerts, festivals and community events like Boone Boo and the town’s parades.

“We have locals that come out to enjoy these places,” Freed said. “And we definitely see visitors because they want to be part of the hometown experience.

PHOTO BY NICK FOGLEMAN

The Jones House serves as a cultural center, hosting concerts, events and art exhibits, while also providing a space for visitors to relax, enjoy lunch and enjoy the greenspace.

Reimagining Howard Street:

Boone’s long-awaited downtown revitalization underway

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

After decades of discussion and planning, the Town of Boone has begun the long-anticipated renovation of Howard Street. The historic corridor has long served as a local commercial hub, highlighting the town’s history, food and culture.

“It’s a very exciting project,” Downtown Boone Development Coordinator Lane Moody said. “Depending on who you ask, it’s either been 30 or 80 years, and it’s exciting to see it come to fruition.”

The project includes major utility and design upgrades, including new pedestrian and bike lanes, updated street lighting, more than 8,500 square feet of brick hardscaping,

landscaping and the burial of overhead utilities.

Infrastructure improvements include 1,500 feet of new water mains, 1,200 feet of upgraded sewer mains, and nearly 1,400 feet of new stormwater piping, featuring 36 inlets and manholes to enhance drainage and reduce flooding. These upgrades aim to equip the street for long-term business success.

The Boone Town Council approved the design scope and fees in 2015, followed by additional lighting and engineering plans in 2018. The town secured a $9.7 million USDA loan in 2021, and after finalizing easements in 2023, the project went

See STREET on page 87

PHOTO BY NICK FOGLEMAN

The town council broke ground on the long-awaited project in April 2025, with an expected completion in Summer 2026.

to bid on July 10, 2024. A ceremonial groundbreaking was held on April 14, 2024.

“We have a 450-day construction contract,” Moody said. “So we’re looking at completion in July 2025, and of course there are opportunities for weather delays, but hopefully summer.”

The street will be converted to one-way traffic, with ADA-accessible sidewalks and new lighting. The project also includes underground conduit for future electric vehicle chargers. Moody said the new design will mirror the downtown aesthetic, including black streetlight poles and decorative features for seasonal events.

“It’s really to create a

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF BOONE

buri-

A new duct bank will house all the overhead utilities, creating a safer area and enhancing community opportunities.

From STREET page 86

cleaner, safer, and more pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly corridor that’s going to enhance that area,” Moody said. “We’ll have additional banners, planters and Christmas decorations. It will beautify that area significantly.”

While construction may cause temporary disruption, Moody encouraged residents and visitors to continue supporting local businesses.

“I would always just continue to encourage people to love all those businesses,” she said. “The construction isn’t easy, and it’s particularly tough in that area. But the lack of pedestrian infrastructure really shows why this project is so important.”

M&M Construction, a Banner Elk-based company, serves as the contractor for the project.

“They’ve been great to work with,” Moody said. “It’s nice because they’re local.”

Howard Street’s history traces back to 1913, when the eastern portion was established with the annexation of E.S. Coffey’s “Appalachia” subdivision. By 1915, local advertisements were already calling it Howard Street. The western portion

developed in the 1920s as warehouses and shops clustered near the Linville River Railway, forming what became known as Boone’s “second main business street.”

Boone Town Council member and historian Eric Plaag notes that Howard Street may have been named for either Benjamin Howard, a frontier cattle farmer and Loyalist-turned-Patriot whose name also lives on in Howard Knob, or for Howard Cottrell, the grandson of Calvin Jones Cottrell, who reportedly named the street after purchasing its first lot in 1913.

Howard Street wasn’t paved until 1948, after years of complaints from the Chamber of Commerce and then Watauga Democrat editor Rob Rivers, who called the muddy roadway “deplorable” and demanded it be surfaced to support Boone’s growing business district.

“Here we are 77 years later, starting work once again to make Howard Street beautifully paved and as smooth as a floor,” Plaag said at the groundbreaking. “It only seems right and fitting that our residents and visitors should enjoy a visually appealing and safe streetscape worthy of their patronage— once again bringing joy to the folks who have occasion to use downtown Boone’s second most important avenue.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF BOONE

BY MOSS BRENNAN

TChamber Foundation continues to grow and give back

he Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, was established to foster the development and welfare of Boone and the greater Watauga County area.

With a mission to manage and distribute funds and resources that uplift the community, the foundation has stepped up in challenging times to support the businesses and the community as a whole.

It was the vision of several community leaders to use the funds raised by this organization to address critical issues like access to childcare for working parents, attainable housing for the growing workforce, and professional development and services for our small businesses.

As of mid-October, the BACCF has distributed more than $1,282,00 to more than 200 businesses in Watauga, Ashe, and Avery counties through multiple rounds of funding.

It also provided $206,00 for October 2024 tuition payments made to local licensed early childhood development centers and inhome care providers in partnership with The Children’s Council of Watauga County.

Since September 2024, the BACCF has raised a total of $1,149,500 for Helene-related disaster support. These grants have helped provide short-term support for the small business community throughout the High Country.

While immediate recovery from Hurricane Helene is essential, the Foundation also addresses long-standing issues that impact the community. Housing support, childcare development, workforce stability, and economic vitality are central to the Foundation’s ongoing initiatives. In collaboration with the Watauga County Housing Trust, the Early Childhood Development & Education Fund, STABLE Workplaces, and the Watauga

See CHAMBER on page 89

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The Foundation is led by a dedicated board of directors composed of local residents, business leaders, and educators. Their combined expertise and deep-rooted connection to the

To learn more about the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, visit our website www. boonechamber.com/foundation. For information about the High Country Business Resiliency Disaster Grant, visit this page www.boonechamber.com/hope-for-the-high-country. For more information, contact Ethan Dodson, Foundation Development Officer, at ethan@boonechamber.com.

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From CHAMBER

Child Care Support Expands in Boone as state faces ongoing crisis

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

As North Carolina faces a worsening child care crisis, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation and local partners are stepping up efforts to expand access, improve quality and stabilize the industry in Watauga County.

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation (BACCF) was established to address critical community issues such as access to child care, attainable housing and professional development for small businesses. Its first major project was the Watauga County Childcare Study, which provides a detailed look at the county’s child care system.

The report emphasizes the long-term benefits of investing in early childhood education. It notes that 90% of brain growth occurs before kindergarten, making early experiences essential for improving mental and physical growth. Studies have shown that there is a 7–13% annual

return on early education through better health, education and employment outcomes. This impact is heightened by the tourism, educational and health care industries’ reliance on young families and workers.

The report found that Watauga County faces a severe shortage of affordable, high-quality child care options, mirroring a statewide trend. Since that report, the foundation has rapidly expanded its fundraising and programming.

In August 2025, the chamber announced its intention to host an annual October campaign for early childhood initiatives, aiming to raise money to cover October childcare tuition for early childcare workers in Watauga County.

“Childcare workers do some of the most important work in our communities. They are teaching and fostering growth in our next generation of leaders. Yet too often, their

See CHILD CARE on page 91

work goes unseen and underappreciated,” said Halee Hartley, owner of Kid Cove. “Locally, we’re in a prime position to change that by recognizing the value of childcare workers, honor their commitment, and ensure they receive the respect, pay, and support they truly deserve.”

The announcement came a year after the Chamber distributed $206,000 to eight licensed child care centers in Watauga County to cover families’ tuition for the month in the

See CHILD CARE on page 92

NC Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley visited Kid Cove in Boone, along with David Jackson of the Boone Chamber, to learn more about the local childcare industry.

aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

“This tuition reimbursement has been such a gift to us,” one family said. “Being able to give a little more was what we wanted to do after such a difficult event for our community and helped lift our spirits in the process.”

The foundation also announced it has fully funded the Pathways to Accreditation Program run by the Children’s Council of Watauga County for another year. Currently, 19 local childcare programs are enrolled in Pathways to Accreditation.

“Pathways to Accreditation is an innovative way to support our early childhood education programs in growing the quality of their centers,” said Elisha Childers, Executive Director of The Children’s Council of Watauga County.

In the past year, the program provided direct support to center directors and 61 lead teachers, who served 530 children, benefiting from their professional growth.

“Supporting the workforce behind our workforce has been a staple priority of the foundation since its inception,” said David Jackson, president and CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. “If we can provide this type of assistance in Watauga County, even for a month, perhaps this will show leaders around the state what the impact could look like in the other 99 counties.”

In April 2025, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce was recognized as a 2025 Champion of Childcare alongside local Representative Ray Pickett. The award honored the Chamber’s continued advocacy efforts and direct community support, including emergency tuition coverage provided to Watauga County childcare centers in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

In April 2025, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce was recognized as a 2025 Champion of Childcare alongside local Representative Ray Pickett.

The report noted the ongoing challenges in the county. As of 2023, Watauga County had 34 licensed child care facilities, employing 193 workers and serving 913 children. The study found that the average cost of full-time child care is $900 per month, consuming 11–21% of a family’s income, higher than the federal affordability benchmark of 7%. Child care workers in Watauga County earn an average of $30,600 annually, below the county’s average wage of $44,500.

The Watauga County Childcare Study outlines a framework to strengthen the system, including increasing

Allison Jennings Director of Philanthropy

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workforce development through career pathways, scholarship and educator support; building partnerships to increase funding; expanding availability through homebased and employer-supported centers; and forming a local Child Care Leadership Council to coordinate advocacy and funding.

The Boone Area Chamber Foundation continues to raise funds through its Early Childhood Education & Development Fund while also advancing projects in housing, workforce development, and small business recovery.

For more information or to contribute to the foundation and its mission, visit boonechamber.com.

From CHILD CARE page 92

Chamber of Commerce’s Early Childhood Business Advisory Council Southern Convening, Atlanta, GA.

Get to know the town of Boone

There are many functions in every town, no matter how big or small.

Many community members may not interact with every aspect of town government, but they play critical roles. Here are some of the many key departments in the town of Boone that those moving to the area — or even just visiting — should know.

BOONE POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Boone Police Department is made up of more than 40 sworn officers and 1 civilian employee. The department has an annual operating budget of approximately $6 million. The department has started a new Community Care Program in partnership with the Mediation and Restorative Justice Center. This initiative embeds a social work program within the police department to better meet the needs of the community. Daniel Duckworth is the chief of the department.

You can follow the department on Facebook @Town of Boone Police Department. If you need our assistance, BPD is dispatched through the Watauga County Communications Center at (828) 264-3761, which is the non-emergency number. The department can also be reached at (828) 268-6900. For all emergencies, call 911.

BOONE FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Boone Fire Department is a full-service emergency services agency. The department provides comprehensive fire protection, emergency medical first responder services, hazardous materials response services, and technical rescue services. It also serves as the town of Boone’s emergency preparedness coordinating agency. It also enforces state fire codes through annual fire inspections and construction inspections, conducts fire investigations, and provides public fire and injury

See BOONE on page 95

PHOTO BY MOSS BRENNAN

Members of the Boone Fire Department acknowledge a fellow superhero in front of Station 1 on King Street during Boone Boo!

prevention education programs for the general public and businesses. The Boone Fire Department provides these services for the town limits of Boone and the surrounding rural district, covering a total of 40.5 square miles.

To accomplish all this, the department operates out of three fire stations. In 2024, the Boone Fire Department responded to more than 3,000 calls — including 163 on Sept. 27, 2024, during Hurricane Helene. The Boone Fire Department is rated as “Class 1” in the town limits and a “Class 2/9E” in the rural fire district. BFD can be reached at (828) 268-6180, which is the non-emergency number. For all emergencies, call 911.

BOONE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Boone Public Works consists of employees who both install and repair Boone’s infrastructure. Some employees are employed within the General Fund budget, and complete maintenance for five bridges; resurfacing, patching, snow removal, leaf pickup and sweeping for 43+ miles of streets; new construction, replacement, mowing and snow removal for 18+ miles of sidewalk; maintenance and mowing for 5+ miles of green ways, plus six parks, maintenance and mowing for Boone Cemetery; maintenance and repair, plus new installations for approximately 213 parking meters, seven pay-stations and 10 electric vehicle charging stations downtown; maintenance and repair for approximately 250 vehicles and pieces of equipment; leaf and debris pickup for our citizens; and new construction plus replacement and maintenance for approximately 10% of stormwater infrastructure throughout town.

The other employees are employed within the Water and Sewer Fund budget and complete maintenance and repair for approximately 103 miles of water mains ranging in size from 2 inch to 24 inch in diameter, plus approximately 800 fire hydrants; maintenance and repair for approximately 100 miles of sewer mains ranging in size from 4 inch to 30 inch in diameter, plus approximately 2,327 manholes; read approximately 6,700 water meters

each month for billing purposes; maintenance and mowing at seven water tanks totaling 6.1 million gallons of storage for treated water; perform maintenance and mowing for seven water pump-stations and 10 wastewater pump-stations; provide safe drinking water to Federal and State requirements from three surface water intakes and the Ricky L. Miller Water Treatment Facility, plus treat both Boone and Appalachian State University’s waste water to federal and State requirements at the Jimmy Smith Wastewater Treatment Facility before discharging back to the New River. Public works can be reached via email at publicworks@townofboone.net or by telephone at (828) 268-6230 or the emergency phone at (828) 2686250.

PLANNING AND INSPECTIONS

The Planning and Inspections Department assists the Boone Town Council and appointed boards and commissions in managing growth and promoting public health, safety, and general welfare through the

The downtown Boone Post Office, which houses the Planning and Inspections Department.

formulation of plans, policy recommendations, as well as the administration of the Town’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), North Carolina State Building Codes and various other codes and statutes. Its goal is to provide the very best service to customers in the community. It also aims to develop strategies that guide growth in a manner that preserves and enhances both the natural and built environments, while creating a community of lasting value. Provided on the Department’s website — www.townofboone.net/pi — are links on a variety of topics intended to assist residents, business owners, and visitors on topics relating to land use, subdivision, building, inspection services, and development information in general.

The Planning and Inspections Department is located

in the lower level of the Downtown Post Office, located at 680 West King Street, Suite C. Limited free parking for customers of both the Post Office and the department is available on Linney Street. Planning and Inspections can be reached via email at planning@townofboone.net or by telephone at (828) 268-6960.

See BOONE on page 97

The Cultural Resources Department oversees programming at the Jones House, which is located in downtown Boone.

CULTURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The Town of Boone’s Cultural Resources Department helps oversee historic properties, hosts programs, and serves as a community resource. Housed in the Jones House Cultural Center in downtown Boone, the Cultural Resources department includes three fulltime employees and several part-time event workers. In addition to the Jones House, the Cultural Resources Department helps work with groups and programming at the Daniel Boone Park, Rivers Park and North Street Park. Cultural Resources oversees programming at the Jones House and other special events in town. Some of these programs and events include historic tours of downtown Boone, Summer Concerts at the Jones House, Boone Junior Appalachian Musicians, Boonerang Music & Arts Festival, Doc Watson Day, the July 4th parade and fireworks, Boone BOO!, Festive First Friday and the Solar Tree Lighting, and the Holiday Parade.

For more information about the Cultural Resources Department, visit www.joneshouse.org or call (828) 2686280. For more information on the town of Boone, visit www.townofboone.net/.

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From BOONE page 96

BPD Chief Daniel Duckworth with two children at a past Emergency Fest.

Civic Clubs & Interest Groups

BY MOSS BRENNAN

The following are some of the clubs, organizations and nonprofits in the Boone area.

• American Legion Post 130 Search “Watauga American Legion Post 130” on Facebook

• Appalachian Chorale music.appstate.edu/academics/ ensembles/choirs

• Appalachian Shrine Club appshriners.org

• Blue Ridge Hiking Club blueridgehikingclub.org

• Book Bunch Club arlibrary.org/watauga

• Boone Area Cyclists booneareacyclists.org

• Boone Area Lions Club e-clubhouse.org/sites/boonenc

• Boone Optimist Club danielbooneoptimist.com

• Boone Running Club facebook.com/groups/ boonerunningclub

• Boone Sunrise Rotary Club boonerotary.org

• Daughters of the American Revolution Daniel Boone Chapter www.ncdar.org/ DanielBooneChapter_files/

• High Country Pride facebook.com/ HighCountryPride

• Watauga Parks and Recreation www.wataugacounty.org/app_ pages/dept/parksrec/home.aspx

• Junaluska Heritage Association www.junaluskaboone.org

• Kiwanis Club of Boone www.facebook.com/ KiwanisofBooneNC#

• Loyal Order of Moose 1805 www.mooseintl.org/ location/1805-boone/

• Military Officers Association of America (High Country Chapter) hccmoaa.org/

• Toastmaster’s Club 1387766.toastmastersclubs.org

• Watauga Book Brewers arlibrary.org/watauga-bookclubs

• Watauga Community Band wataugacommunity.band

• Watauga County Historical Society

wataugacountyhistoricalsociety. org

• Women’s Fund of the Blue Ridge womensfundoftheblueridge.org

• Watauga Gun Club wataugagunclub.com

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Boone Area Chamber of Commerce boonechamber.com

• Downtown Boone Development Association downtownboonenc.com

• High Country Association of Realtors highcountryrealtors.org

• High Country Writers highcountrywriters.org

• High Country Young Professionals www.boonechamber.com/hcyp NONPROFITS

• American Red Cross (Blue Ridge Chapter) redcross.org/local/northcarolina/greater-carolinas/ about-us/locations/blue-ridgepiedmont.html

• Appalachian & the Community Together (ACT) act.appstate.edu

• Appalachian Theatre apptheatre.org

• Appalachian Voices appvoices.org

• Back to School Festival www.back2schoolfest.org

• Blue Ridge Conservancy blueridgeconservancy.org

• Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture brwia.org

• Casting Bread Ministries www.increasefoodsecurity.org/

• Children’s Council of Watauga County thechildrenscouncil.org

• Children’s Hope Alliance childrenshopealliance.org

• The Children’s Playhouse goplayhouse.org

• F.A.R.M. Cafe farmcafe.org/index.html

• Girls on the Run of the High Country gotr.appstate.edu

• Habitat for Humanity wataugahabitat.org/home

• Harmony Lanes harmonylanes.org

• High Country Area Agency on Aging highcountryaging.org

• High Country Caregivers highcountrycaregivers.com

• High Country Pathways highcountrypathways.org

• High Country United Way highcountryunitedway.org

• Hope Pregnancy Center choosehope.org

• Hospitality House hosphouse.org

• Hunger and Health Coalition hungerandhealthcoalition.com

• Mountain Alliance mountainalliance.org

• OASIS Inc. oasisinc.org

• Parent to Parent Family

Support Network parent2parent.appstate.edu

• Quiet Givers quietgivers.org

• Resort Area Ministries (828) 264-6605

• Samaritan’s Purse samaritanspurse.org

• Southern Appalachian Historical Association horninthewest.com

• SmileOn ADG smileonadg.org

• Special Olympics Watauga County www.facebook.com/ SpecialOlympicsWCNC

• Spirit Ride Therapeutic Riding Center spiritridenc.org

• Watauga Compassionate Community Initiative wataugacci.org

• Watauga County Arts Council www.watauga-arts.org

• Watauga County Community Foundation nccommunityfoundation.org/ communities/northwestern/ watauga-county

• Watauga County Humane Society wataugahumane.org

• Watauga County Rescue Squad wataugarescue.org

• Watauga Education Foundation wataugaeducationfoundation. org

• Watauga Opportunities, Inc. woiworks.org

• Western Youth Network westernyouthnetwork.org

• W.A.M.Y. Community Action wamycommunityaction.org

• Wine to Water winetowater.org

BOONE my hometown

Numbers of Note

• Fire, Rescue and Police (emergency) 911

• Boone Police Department (non-emergency) (828) 268-6900

• Boone Fire Department (non-emergency) (828) 268-6180

• Watauga County Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (828) 264-3761

• App State University Police (828) 262-8000

• Boone Town Hall (828) 268-6200

• Boone Planning and Inspections (828) 268-6960

• Boone Public Works (828) 264-6230

• Health Dept. (AppHealthCare) (828) 264-4995

• Watauga Medical Center (828) 262-4100

• Watauga County Public Library (828) 264-8784

• Watauga County Schools (828) 264-7190

• Blue Ridge Energy (828) 264-8894

• New River Light & Power (828) 264-3671

• Watauga Parks & Rec (828) 264-9511

• Appalachian State University (828) 262-2000

• Caldwell Community College (828) 726-2200

• Boone Area Chamber of Commerce (828) 264-2225

• High Country Host (Visitor Center) (828) 264-1299

• Boone Tourism Development Authority (828) 266-1345

• Watauga Democrat (828) 264-6397

• The Mountain Times (828) 264-1881

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