High Country Press

Open House Announced at The Art Cellar Featuring Raymond Chorneau & Zoey Brookshire

June 6, 2023 As the Art Cellar Gallery prepares for our second feature exhibition of the Summer we reflect on Hatcher, Hayes & Geci, our previous show, for the unique dynamic it provided to our season schedule. A colorful, contemporary, and highly textured exhibition to kick off our season with a bang, it also provided our clients with a different variety of art than they’ve come to expect from the Art Cellar. Now, with our second showing, we present a style and subject matter that starkly contrasts the Hatcher & Glass collection. With these curated shows, we hope to provide a wide range of fine art that lends itself to all of our clients, regardless of personal tastes and styles.

June 6, 2023 The recent “Lifesaver Event” in Boone proved to be just that for a number of area citizens who attended the seminar sponsored by Jason Sirmon, Edward Jones Financial Advisor, along with Blackburn, Childers & Steagall, CPAs, both of Boone. Registration assistance was provided by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce.Held at the High Country Home Builders Association in Boone, the two-day sessions brought to the forefront some of today’s hot topics on aging and financial issues, led by area and state experts. It was not only educational and informative, attendees agreed, but it was helpful to hear from others in the audiemce who have experienced, or are currently in the midst of some of life’s toughest situations. By Sherrie Norris

June 6, 2023 BOONE, NC – Here is a chronological overview of the 15 separate events that comprise the 2023 High Country Jazz Festival taking place in ten different locations Boone and Blowing Rock from June 9 through 11, 2023. FREE events are indicated by an asterisk ( * ) with tickets to the headliner events available via the festival website: www.highcountryjazzfestival.org

June 5, 2023 KINGSPORT, TN – The Equip 13U baseball team competed in the Tennessee State Tournament over the weekend of June 4-5, reaching the Gold Bracket before incurring their first loss on the season. Fifteen teams from across Tennessee, along with the Equip team from Boone and a team from Virginia competed for the title of Tennessee State Champions.

June 5, 2023 BOONE, NC – At 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 11, The Reggie Buie Group will perform under the tent at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock as the final headliner event during the 2023 High Country Jazz Festival. It is the last of 15 separate events in ten different locations throughout Boone and Blowing Rock that are part of the 2023 festival, which runs from June 9 through 11. The 2023 festival is presented by Mast General Store with additional support from Explore Boone and Hampton Inn & Suites, Boone.

June 5, 2023 How wrong I was about 2018’s “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” When I saw the first trailer, I remember groaning about starting a fourth big-screen Spider-Man continuity when we were still in the middle of the Tom Holland version, hadn’t had a proper conclusion for the Andrew Garfield version, and weren’t far enough removed from the Tobey Maguire version. The live-action continuities eventually sorted themselves out, but more importantly, the animated “Spider-Verse” quickly became the best continuity of all. And with “Across the Spider-Verse,” it continues to be the best continuity. By Bob Garver

June 5, 2023 BOONE — More than 200 supporters donned their denim best to celebrate and contribute to WAMY Community Action initiatives at Denim & Diamonds 2023 — the second annual charity event and auction raising money for poverty-fighting programs in Watauga, Avery, Mitchell and Yancy counties.The event was held Thursday, May 18, at the White Crow Farm in Valle Crucis, with a lively auction featuring renowned auctioneer Jesse Miller, of First Security Peak Insurance, who drummed up bids for restaurant certificates, golf and getaway packages, and gifts donated by local businesses. Proceeds from the event will fund summer camp scholarships for children and necessary home repairs for impoverished people in the four-county area.

June 5, 2023 Raleigh, N.C. The State Board of Elections invites the public to comment on two temporary rules proposed to implement the photo ID requirement for in-person and absentee-by-mail voters in North Carolina, beginning with the 2023 municipal elections.These rules are necessary to ensure uniform implementation of the photo ID requirement by all 100 county boards of elections and in all 3,000-plus polling locations. They are similar to rules adopted by the State Board and approved by the Rules Review Commission in prior iterations of the photo ID law.

June 5, 2023 BOONE, NC: The Watauga Community Housing Trust is announcing a project partnership with the Junaluska Heritage Association to fundraise for the purchase of a home near downtown Boone. By securing this property, WCHT will create its first permanently affordable using the housing trust model. The organizations pursuing this project seek the support of the community to make this project a reality, and create a new way for the community to add more affordable homes each year.

June 2, 2023 WILKESBORO, N.C. – Colleen Cassell was recently awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS). Cassell, a member of the WCC NTHS Chapter and a member of the WCC Club of the Arts, graduated earlier this month with an associate degree in advertising and graphic design and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in graphic design at Campbell University.Cassell stated, “Wilkes Community College has given me the opportunity to find an internship position, where I am practicing and utilizing my graphic design skills. I am very honored to receive this scholarship and I look forward to furthering my education and enhancing my technical skills.”

June 2, 2023 From a one-day community blitz during which random acts of kindness made a huge difference all across the High Country, to a six-month “Season of High Country Impact,” Three Forks Baptist Association is determined to continue reaching out in love and service to others.That was the decision made by the association leadership recently and announced during the 184th Spring meeting of the TFBA at Greenway Baptist Church in late April.Director of Missions, Wesley Smith shared how, in the past, there was a one-dayemphasis, usually in September, through which churches of the association were encouraged to share an outreach project — or multiple projects — in their communities and surrounding areas around the High Country.

June 2, 2023 A unique Raleigh-based group taking its state-wide tours from the relaxing coast to the breath-taking mountains — inclusive of “invigorating history, exceptional city and peaceful garden tours” —will be making its way to the area in early June for its High Country Adventure 2023.From June 8-11, “visit NC Concierge” will be escorting 30 guests to visit some of the area’s premiere sites around Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties.

June 2, 2023 Boone, North Carolina, May 20, 2023 — Blue Ridge Kung Fu Arnis Academy of Boone, NC is proud to announce advanced promotions of students on May 20, 2023 in the art of 7 Star Praying Mantis and Sil Lum Kung Fu, Shuai Shou Bi Men and Advanced Weapons. Scott Stansberry of Sugar Grove, North Carolina was promoted to the rank of 10th Degree (Duan) Grandmaster Black Sash (Red Sash), the highest rank in the system. Chris Laing of Butler, Tennessee was promoted to the rank of 9th Degree (Duan) Grandmaster Black Sash (Black Belt), the next highest rank in the system. Both of these students are natives of Watauga County. Scott Stansberry has assisted with instruction of the Boone Academy. Chris Laing owns and operates Blue Ridge Kung Fu Arnis Academy of Mountain City, Tennessee and Blue Ridge Kung Fu Arnis Academy of Abingdon, Virginia.

June 1, 2023 More than 60 local politicians, community advocates as well as representatives from state and federal agencies and organizations gathered at the Hospitality House in Boone on Wednesday to celebrate Hospitality House of Northwest North Carolina receiving $446,625 in grants to combat rural homelessness. The money comes from grants of more than $22 million awarded to the state from the department of Housing and Urban Development, also known as HUD. Hospitality House of Northwest NC includes Watauga, Wilkes, Ashe, Alleghany, Avery, Mitchell and Yancey counties. By Zack Hill

June 1, 2023 We’ve all heard the saying, “The numbers don’t lie.” But at the same time, most of us have heard Mark Twain’s famous quote, “There’s lies, damn lies, and statistics.” Still, looking at data, or statistics, if you will pardon us Mr. Twain, does provide valuable insight into what is actually happening beyond headlines, opinions and suppositions. Tom Gidley, REALTOR

May 31, 2023 OASIS, Inc. the local nonprofit serving victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence, is celebrating their 45th anniversary this summer with the return of Midnight at the OASIS. Seeking a way to celebrate the impact of 25 years of service to the High Country, OASIS hosted Midnight at the OASIS for the first time in 2003. Now, 20 years later, they invite our community to join them for the first Midnight at the OASIS since 2019.

May 31, 2023 Todd, NC – Come out on Saturday, June 24, for the return of the Riverkeeper Float Fest, sponsored by Appalachian Mountain Brewery and hosted by River & Earth Adventures. This family-friendly event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at River & Earth Adventures’ New River Outpost in Todd, NC.

May 31, 2023 Avery High’s 2023 graduation ceremonies will be held the evening of Friday, June 2nd, on the football turf at the school’s MacDonald Stadium. The school is located at 401 High School Road in Newland. Graduation will commence at 6:00 p.m.Graduates are requested to arrive at the school no later than 4:30 p.m. on June 2nd. Gates will open for families and other guests of those graduating at 5:00 p.m. The graduates, along with high school and Avery County Board of Education officials, will sit on the turf. All others are asked to sit in the stadium’s home side bleachers. By Tim Gardner

Sherrie Norris Lovin’ Spoonful Cooking Column: Stretching Family Food Dollars Through the Summer

May 31, 2023 Contrary to popular belief, summer doesn’t always mean fun in the sun for all families. Some are struggling to find safe places for the kids during the school break. Work schedules, limited income and the stresses of life, in general, often prove to be challenging for a lot of families in our area. Camp registration begins filling up in the middle of winter, and not everyone has grandparents and other relatives to lend a helping hand with childcare. Also among great concerns for many families is making sure the kids receive adequate nutrition during the summer months. For those, especially, who depend on breakfast and lunches provided by school cafeterias during the academic year, it can be a daunting responsibility to have enough food in the cupboards at home to cover the extra meals. By Sherrie Norris

May 31, 2023 The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce celebrated the official opening of Rooster Rock Supply Company with a ribbon cutting last week.This is the second business for owners, Toby and Hailey Oliver. They also own Oliver’s on Main in the Southmarke Center. Rooster Rock Supply Company sells clothing and outdoor lifestyle supplies. The store, located inside the former Wells Fargo Bank space at 983 Main Street, utilizes the former bank’s vault as a changing room. By Kris Testori

May 31, 2023 .On Thursday, June 1, the town of Blowing Rock will celebrate Blowing Rock History Day. At this event, Mayor Charlie Sellers, along with the Blowing Rock Historical Society (BRHS) and the Village Foundation, will host the ribbon cutting for the 21 stations of the History Walk. “Our history walk will be a tremendous new community asset,” said BRHS president Tom O’Brien. “It is a marvelous way to bring our history to life,” he added. The ribbon cutting is at 4 p.m. in Mayview Plaza, located at the intersection of Laurel Lane and Main Street. A celebration at the American Legion building will follow. The community is invited and there will be a free open bar and appetizers. By Kris Testori

May 31, 2023 Active military personnel, retired veterans and families of fallen soldiers, along with grateful civilians, gathered Monday afternoon in Avery County for its annual Memorial Day ceremony to remember those slain from the county and across America in a foreign war.The event is held every year on the Avery County/Newland Town Square, whichfeatures its veterans’ monument with names of all county natives who served during a military conflict and in which war. The county/town square also highlights Armed Forces flags displays and gardens and the Fallen Officers, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Ten Commandments monuments.The ceremony is organized and conducted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Auxiliary Pat Ray Post 4286, in Newland. Approximately 200 attended this year. By Tim Gardner

May 31, 2023 The Mayor and Council would like to announce that Kevin Rothrock was chosen unanimously to serve as Interim Town Manager until a permanent Manager is selected. Mr. Rothrock has served as Planning Director since July of 2001.Mr. Rothrock is a native of Winston Salem, a ’94 graduate of Appalachian State University, and he worked for the Town of Boone for 6 years prior to coming to the Town of Blowing Rock.

June 1, 2023 BOONE, NC – The historic Appalachian Theatre on King Street continues its themed movie offerings by highlighting music-centric films during its June Jams Film Series. The month begins with a screening of the theatre’s most requested animated feature, “The Lion King”, on Saturday, June 3 with a 2 p.m. matinee showing. Presented by Allen Wealth Management, this 1994 animated blockbuster loosely based on Shakespeare’s Hamlet features music by Elton John and voice work by James Earl Jones and Jeremy Irons. This special showing will include captions as audience singing is encouraged!

May 30, 2023 When strolling the streets of downtown West Jefferson, there’s a hidden gem of a business that visitors may miss if they don’t look closely – a place where imaginations run wild and paranormal beliefs are discovered. By Harley Nefe

+ More Articles

Open House Announced at The Art Cellar Featuring Raymond Chorneau & Zoey Brookshire

“The Lifesaver Event” Proves Helpful, Informative to Area Senior Citizens

2023 High Country Jazz Festival from June 9 – 11

EQUIP 13U REACHES GOLD BRACKET IN TENNESSEE STATE TOURNAMENT

Reggie Buie Group Wraps Up 2023 High Country Jazz Festival

Movie Review: “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”

Denim & Diamonds Event Raised Record-Breaking Funds for WAMY Community Action

State Board Opens Public Comment Period on Proposed Rules on Voter Photo ID

Watauga Community Housing Trust Announces Fundraising Campaign

WCC Student Honored with Jon H. Poteat Scholarship from the National Technical Honor Society

High Country Impact, An Outreach of Three Forks Baptist Association, Expands From One Day to Six Months of Community Service

High Country Adventure 2023 Brings “visit NC Concierge” To Boone

Blue Ridge Kung Fu Arnis Academy Announces Advanced Promotions of Students

Hospitality House Celebrates Receiving More Than $400,000 in Grants to Fight Homelessness in High Country

High Country Real Estate: Real Estate by the Numbers

OASIS, Inc. to celebrate 45 years of service with Midnight at the OASIS

Riverkeeper Float Fest Returns on June 24, 2023

Avery County High School to Hold 2023 Graduation Ceremonies on June 2nd at MacDonald Stadium

Sherrie Norris Lovin’ Spoonful Cooking Column: Stretching Family Food Dollars Through the Summer

Outdoor Lifestyle Store Opens on Main Street

Ribbon Cutting & Celebration! Blowing Rock History Walk

2023 Avery Memorial Day Ceremony Held to Honor and Remember Veterans Who Perished in Battle

Blowing Rock Announces Interim Town Manager

Appalachian Theatre celebrates Music-Themed Films in June Jams Series

Great Southern Gothic: It’s Not Just A Shop, It’s An Experience