Watauga, Avery Obituaries – December 10, 2024
December 10, 2024. The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland.
N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Announces New Executive Director
December 9, 2024 RALEIGH, N.C. (December 9, 2024) – At its business meeting today, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission announced that after a thorough application and review process, the Commission selected Michael Kyle Briggs as executive director of the agency. Since December 2015 Briggs has served as Chief Deputy Director overseeing the agency’s day-to-day operations as well as leading the agency’s Law Enforcement, Wildlife Management, Inland Fisheries and Habitat Conservation Divisions and a newly established Genetics Program. Briggs will transition into his new role on Jan. 1, 2025.
App State’s Fall Commencement Ceremonies are on Friday, December 13
December 9, 2024 Appalachian State University will recognize fall 2024 graduates during commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13. Ceremonies will take place at 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. in the Holmes Convocation Center on App State’s Boone campus. During the events, graduates will walk across the stage in Holmes Convocation Center and be professionally photographed receiving their diploma covers.
Blue Ridge Conservancy Awarded “Complete the Trails” Funding for Northern Peaks State Trail
December 9, 2024 Raleigh, NC – Blue Ridge Conservancy (BRC) was recently awarded $453,800 from the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation’s Complete the Trails (CTP) program for the Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST) in Ashe County. The grant awards help to fund the purchase of over 68 acres on Mount Jefferson that will be added to Mount Jefferson State Natural Area. “Trails bring incredible benefits to rural communities, boosting tourism and economic development,” said N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary D. Reid Wilson. “This generous funding made possible by the General Assembly and Governor Roy Cooper will help transform the state trails system in the Great Trails State.”
One Month Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance: Deadline is January 7th
December 9, 2024 North Carolinians with disaster-related damage or loss from Tropical Storm Helene have less than one month to apply for federal assistance. The application deadline is Jan. 7, 2025. Homeowners and renters in these areas may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses. Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, which is the quickest way to apply. Survivors can also apply using the FEMA App on mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362.
HUD Extends Foreclosure Moratoriums in Areas Devastated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton
December 9, 2024 WASHINGTON – On December 6, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced it is extending through April 11, 2025, its foreclosure moratoriums for FHA-insured Single Family Title II forward and Home Equity Conversion Mortgages in Presidentially Declared Major Disaster Areas (PDMDAs) declared as a result of this past summer’s Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This extension provides borrowers affected by these catastrophic events with additional time to access federal, state, or local housing resources; to consult with a HUD-approved housing counselor; and/or to rebuild their homes.
Movie Review: “Gladiator II” Now Playing at Boone Regal
December 9, 2024 “Gladiator II” has some awfully big sandals to fill, both commercially and creatively. Its predecessor, 2000’s “Gladiator,” made $187 million at the domestic box office. The new film has thus far made an estimated $132 million after three weekends of release. With a lot of money up for grabs in the upcoming holiday season, another $55 million isn’t out of the question. Maybe I could even stretch to see it making the $68 million it needs to hit the $200 million mark. Yes, inflation means that it’s less impressive to make these numbers now than it did nearly a quarter-century ago, but these are attainable goals. What I do not see as attainable is the sequel ever becoming as well-regarded as the original. That film won the Academy Award for Best Picture, so already the new one has to live up to an impossibly high (dare I say “gold”?) standard. But even with realistic standards, this movie is still a disappointment.
Dowell Loggains Will be the New Head Coach for App State Football
December 8, 2024 A respected offensive play-caller at both the NFL and college levels, Dowell Loggains has been chosen as the next head coach of App State Football, Director of Athletics Doug Gillin announced Saturday. Loggains (pronounced LOG-ans), 44, is the 23rd head football coach in program history. His five-year contract, which runs through the 2029 season, was approved Saturday afternoon by Interim Chancellor Heather Norris and the Appalachian State University Board of Trustees. Most recently the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the top-15 ranked South Carolina Gamecocks, Loggains will be formally introduced Monday during a noon press conference at Kidd Brewer Stadium’s Grandview Ballroom that is open to the public and will also be streamed live on App State Football’s YouTube, Facebook and X pages.
Boone Man Is Sentenced To Eight Years In Federal Prison For Using The Dark Web To Transport Child Pornography
December 6, 2024 CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jacob Elijah Kilgore, 29, of Boone, N.C., was sentenced to eight years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release today for using the dark web to transport child pornography, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Kilgore was also ordered to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison. Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, and Chief Andy LeBeau of the Boone Police Department join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
Ensemble Stage 2024 Holiday Show is Back On Track with First of Seven Shows Starting Tonight
December 6, 2024 Thanks to the amazing work of countless volunteers, local and out-of-town contractors, many local businesses and non-profits, along with the superior planning and relief response of our town administration, it looks like the entire town of Banner Elk will be back up and running at full speed in record time. So, thanks to all those people and businesses, Ensemble Stage WILL be presenting its 2024 Holiday Musical Variety Show.
North Carolina Floodplain Mapping Program Requests Public Comment on New Preliminary Flood Maps
December 6, 2024 The North Carolina Floodplain Mapping Program, responsible for updating the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), requests public comments on the new preliminary flood maps. The Town of Boone uses the FIRMs to regulate its flood ordinance and determine the boundaries of regulated floodplain areas. The preliminary FIRMs are available online for review at https://fris.nc.gov/. These preliminary maps were issued on October 31, 2024, and the review period lasts 90 days, closing on January 29, 2025.
Crossnore Center for Trauma Resilient Communities and Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church Partner for New Initiative
December 6, 2024 Crossnore Communities for Children’s Center for Trauma Resilient Communities and the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church have partnered on a new initiative called “Building Healing-Centered Faith Communities.” The new initiative has a goal of creating safe church communities to offer a stable path for hope, healing, and mutual care in Western North Carolina. Created and developed by Crossnore using its renowned trauma-informed work in the service of children and families, the Center for Trauma Resilient Communities (CTRC) supports organizations using the science of trauma resilience to build healthy and healing environments for their staff, volunteers, and the children, families, and communities they serve.
Studio K Presents The Nutcracker at the Schaefer Center This Weekend, December 6-8
December 5, 2024 If ever there was a time to get lost in a dream surrounded by all that is magical, this would be it. Four presentations of the enchanting ballet, The Nutcracker, will make it all possible this coming weekend, as one of the season’s most treasured traditions returns to the High Country. Nowhere is the ballet more anticipated and cherished than it is in Boone, where for nearly four decades, Studio K Youth Ballet Company has produced the enchanting presentation this time each year. From Friday, Dec. 6 — Sunday, Dec. 8, audiences of all ages will fill the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts in Boone, where more than 350 local dancers — from ages 2 to 70 — will bring the magic to life once again. By Sherrie Norris
Local Author, Terry Harmon, Slated for Book Signing Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Boone Mall
December 5, 2024 Local historian and author, Terry Harmon, will be at Boone Mall on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 11 am to 1:30 pm with his riveting new book that has left the area mesmerized since its release in mid-August. CONVOLUTED: The 1972 Durham Family Triple Homicide, quickly gained momentum among readers of all ages around The High Country and beyond. Harmon’s in-depth research, extensive interviews and inclusion of numerous photos, together with his ability to compile it all into the 500-plus page project, has been considered nothing short of an amazing feat. By Sherrie Norris
The Schaefer Center Presents Series Announces Spring 2025 Season; Tickets on Sale Dec. 11
December 5, 2024 The Schaefer Center Presents (SCP) performing arts series announces its Spring 2025 season lineup. Tickets are on sale Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 10am. Purchase at TheSchaeferCenter.org, in person at the Schaefer Center box office (733 Rivers Street), or by calling 828-262-4046.
Sherrie Norris Lovin’ Spoonful Cooking Column: It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas
December 5, 2024 . My tree was standing bare in the living room for almost two weeks before a single decoration was added to its branches. It was the best I could do. But, with help from the grands and their Papaw, the house is finally beginning to look a little more like Christmas. The twinkling lights provide a peaceful, almost comforting glow, and the sentimental ornaments hanging in the shadows remind me that nothing on this earth lasts forever, but that what we have should be cherished. As much as I miss my brother and others this year, I think of the plight of those who don’t even have a home to decorate. That’s when I remember that I am more blessed than I deserve and try to snap out of my gloom and despair. I do not want or need to wallow in sadness or guilt. I want to enjoy what has always been my favorite time of year. And I’m trying. I’ve been sporadically stocking up on my seasonal baking ingredients, and last night I did bring out a stack of holiday recipes that I keep tucked away 11 months of the year. So, just maybe it will happen. And in the meantime, I’ll share some of those ideas with you. By Sherrie Norris
Long-Awaited Boone Heritage Monument Dedicated Sunday, Dec. 1; Pioneer Descendants Gather for Celebration
December 5, 2024 After months of anticipation — and a two-month delay due to Hurricane Helene’s wrath on the High Country area —the recently completed Boone Heritage Monument was finally dedicated on Sunday, Dec. 1. Even the rescheduled date was concerning, with snow and frigid temperatures forcing much of the ceremony indoors at Dan’l Boone Inn in Boone. But, the majority of attendees ventured outside afterward for the official dedication, much to the delight of those who have worked so hard to make this dream a reality. Thanks to the dedication, talent and tireless efforts of the monument’s creator, Brenda Mauney Councill, this symbol of our heritage will be recognized for many generations to come. By Sherrie Norris
Funeral Services Set for Longtime Watauga County Sheriff, Red Lyons, who Died December 2
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December 4, 2024 As word began to circulate throughout Watauga County on Monday, Dec. 2, that Watauga County’s longest serving sheriff, James C. “Red” Lyons had died, his life of service became a main topic of conversation; memorial tributes also began pouring into social media sites honoring one many remember as a well-respected leader. Known far and wide for the many hats he wore during his lifetime, the former Watauga County Sheriff has left an impressive legacy as one of the area’s best-loved community servants. Funeral services for Lyons, will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, at Hampton’s Funeral Home in Boone. The Lyons family will receive friends two hours prior to the service beginning at 12 noon. Lyons was known primarily for his lengthy, five-term tenure as sheriff of the county he loved and called home. But, as many have pointed out, he made a lasting impact in various roles throughout his lifetime. By Sherrie Norris
November Stats: Likely One Offs Due to the Immediate After Effects of Hurricane Helene
December 4, 2024 There was, obviously, an impact from Helene on November’s sales. For the most part this year, when comparing with 2023, inventory counts might have been down, but the list prices and sales prices were up. Days on market were up slightly some months, LP/SP ratios were up by a percent or two. The drop in number of sales is not a surprise, and the rise in average and median sales prices after October’s dip is encouraging. The numbers that truly reflect Helene’s impact though? Holly Meyers, REALTOR, Blue Ridge Realty & Investments, LLC
Mountain Home Music Presents the Jeff Little Trio with the Mountain Home Bluegrass Boys and Special Guest Tucker Conner on Dec. 12
December 4, 2024 Mountain Home Music is pleased to present An Appalachian Christmas with the Jeff Little Trio at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country on December 12th at 7:30 PM. The Mountain Home Bluegrass Boys will open the show, with special guest Tucker Conner for a festive and fun evening of Appalachian music!
Blowing Rock Art & History Museum Announces New Exhibition Featuring Watauga County Art Educators; Opening Reception on December 5
December 4, 2024 The Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM) is delighted to announce a new exhibition celebrating the creativity and vision of Watauga County art educators. This special showcase is entitled “High Country Visions: Watauga K-12 Educator,” and will be on view in the Museum’s Alexander Community Gallery December 5 through December 29, 2024. The community is invited to a reception to celebrate the opening on Thursday, December 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Museum. Highlighting the artistic contributions of local educators, this exhibition will feature works by Alyssia Ruggiero, Ashley Tate, Courtney McWhorter, Dacia Trethewey, Elle Lowry, Genal West, Kelly Blake, Lindsey Postlethwait and Lori Hill.
Blue Ridge Energy Announces March Retirement of CEO Doug Johnson; Katie Woodle Appointed by Board as Next CEO
December 4, 2024 Blue Ridge Energy has announced the retirement of long-time Chief Executive Officer Doug Johnson, who joined the cooperative in 1979 and has served in the CEO role since 1989. Johnson will continue as CEO through the end of March, 2025. He will then serve in a transitional consultant role through the end of June, 2025, when he officially retires. Joines said he is very pleased to announce the decision by the Board of Directors for the appointment of the cooperative’s next CEO: Katie Woodle
MerleFest Has Announced the Full Artist Lineup for its 2025 Festival Taking Place April 24-27
December 4, 2024 MerleFest, presented by Window World, has added I’m With Her, Leftover Salmon, Stephen Wilson Jr., The Steel Wheels, Tami Neilson, Becky Buller, and more to its 2025 lineup. Taking place April 24-27, 2025, on the campus of Wilkes Community College, the annual celebration of founding legend, Doc Watson, will play host to both legendary names and exciting up and comers, including fast-rising honky-tonk starlet Emily Nenni, Colorado-rooted newgrass ensemble The Fretliners, blues-drenched guitar virtuoso Cristina Vane, and dozens of others. View the complete lineup below
Definitive History of Watauga County Published in 1915 Was Written by John Preston Arthur
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December 4, 2024 This article is about the man who is credited with writing the definitive history of Watauga County — John Preston Arthur. He was a teacher, lawyer, orator, poet, and writer/historian. J.P. Arthur was born October 21, 1851, in Columbia S.C. to Edward John Arthur and Martha Ann Henry Arthur. He practiced law in Columbia and New York before moving to Asheville in 1887 where he practiced law and worked for the Asheville Street Railway Company. In 1904, he began his groundbreaking work on a book that was published in 1914, “Western North Carolina: A History, 1730-1913.” In 1912, he relocated to Boone where he resided at the Blair Hotel until his death on December 6, 1916. While he was in Boone, he was commissioned by 22 citizens to write a book on the history of Watauga County that was published in 1915, “A History of Watauga County, North Carolina,” which he sold for 1.50 a copy. His writing style was unique in that he covered the big picture history but also customs and personal history.
PMI Enters into Option Agreement to Preserve Springhaven Inn in Blowing Rock
December 4, 2024 Preserve Mecklenburg Inc. (“PMI”), a North Carolina 501 c (3) and real estate active preservation organization, has entered into an exclusive, assignable option with the owner of the Springhaven Inn (located on the corner of Main Street and Globe Rd. in Blowing Rock) to pursue a purchase and preservation strategy for the property. Under the terms of the Option Agreement, PMI will not only seek a new owner of the property but will also work to put in place deed covenants that will ensure the preservation of the Springhaven Inn and its rich historical and cultural significance, in perpetuity.