Watauga, Avery Obituaries – June 10th, 2025
June 10, 2025. The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland.
Choir of St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church Presents Their First Choral Evensong Sunday June 15th at 3 pm in the Nave of the Church
June 10, 2025 The choir of St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church in Blowing Rock presents the first choral Evensong of the season this Sunday afternoon, June 15th, at 3 pm in the nave of the church. Evensong is a brief contemplative service centered on biblical readings and sung prayers, and a lovely way to end your weekend before the beginning of your busy work week. Music for this Evensong includes Tallis’s If ye love me, the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis in D by Walmislet, Gabriel Simerson’s Ivy Responses, and the gorgeous Palestrina praise of the Trinity – O beataTrinitas.
NC Native Plant Society Final Native Plant Sale Will Be This Saturday June 21
June 10, 2025 The second, and final, native plant sale of 2025 for the Blue Ridge Chapter of the NC Native Plant Society will be Saturday June 21 at the Daniel Boone Native Gardens, located at 651 Horn in the West Drive, Boone. The sales run from 8:00am to 11:00am. In the event of rain, the location will be moved across the street to the picnic shelter in Boone Park.
Frontline to Farm Returns for Fourth Consecutive Year of Veterans Training in Boone
June 9, 2025 Frontline to Farm will welcome veterans transitioning from military service to sustainable farming to the High Country for its fifth consecutive year and the fourth consecutive year that they’ll be hosting participants at Appalachian State University. The program’s annual intensive training features local and national experts covering essential topics from soil conservation to agricultural law, complemented by hands-on farm tours across the High Country. Summer training is cornerstone project of the Frontline to Farm program and represents a collaborative effort between faculty in Appalachian State University’s Departments of Sustainable Development and Communication.
Movie Reviews: “Final Destination: Bloodlines” and “Karate Kid: Legends” Now Playing at Boone Regal
June 9, 2025 Due to a family vacation, it looks like I won’t be able to see/review a new movie this coming weekend. So here are two movies from the past few weeks that I at least mildly recommend… It’s hard to believe that we went over a decade without a new “Final Destination” movie. Fans love this series and its “slasher-movie-without-a-slasher” gimmick. The “killer” here is the concept of Death itself, which takes the form of unlikely, elaborate, horrific accidents. /// Huh, another franchise that took over a decade off, at least with its movies. Jackie Chan is back as Mr. Han, the new head trainer of this series following the passing of Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi. Han wants to train his great-nephew Li Fong (Ben Wang) in the martial arts, but the boy’s mother (Ming-Na Wen) forbids it due to a family tragedy.
Get Ready to Strum, Pick, and Sing Your Way Through Summer at Jones House Cultural Center
June 5, 2025 The Jones House Cultural Center has announced a series of summer “slow” jams, where participants of all ages can come together to explore the timeless sounds of old-time and classic bluegrass music in a fun and inclusive setting. Each session will be led by two music teachers from the Boone JAM (Junior Appalachian Musicians) program. No matter your age or skill level, those who have a passion for traditional music are welcome to join the jams. Bring an acoustic string instrument and come prepared to learn, jam, and make new friends. While some basic chord knowledge is certainly helpful, these sessions are open to beginners and seasoned players alike, offering a supportive environment for everyone to grow and develop their musical talents.
20 App State ROTC Cadets Commissioned to Serve as Army Second Lieutenants
June 5, 2025 Twenty cadets in Appalachian State University’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, the Mountaineer Battalion, have marked a significant milestone in their military careers, officially entering the ranks of the United States Army as commissioned second lieutenants. During the commissioning ceremony, held May 8 in Valborg Theatre on the university’s Boone campus, cadets were recognized for their commitment, leadership and perseverance throughout their ROTC training. This year’s ceremony featured a keynote address from Lt. Gen. Chris Mohan ’89, Deputy Commanding General and Acting Commander of the U.S. Army Materiel Command (AMC), who administered the Oath of Office to the cadets.
Grandfather Mountain’s annual Animal Birthday Party to be held June 11
June 4, 2025 Grandfather Mountain, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, will throw its annual birthday bash for all resident animals on Wednesday, June 11 — and you’re invited! Included with park admission, the celebration will feature games, contests, crafts and surprises. The park’s habitat staff is preparing a fun-filled afternoon for guests with programs to celebrate its furry and feathered inhabitants as they mark another trip around the sun. Millie the Bear, the mountain’s mascot, will also make special appearances throughout the day.
Watauga, Avery Obituaries – June 3rd, 2025
June 3, 2025. The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland.
Town of Boone Updated Parking Regulations Effective July 1, 2025; Will be $1.50 Hour
June 3, 2025 The Town of Boone announces an update to its hourly parking rates, effective July 1, 2025. The new rate will be $1.50 per hour, an increase from the current rate of $1.00 per hour. This adjustment supports the Town’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance public infrastructure, including parking facilities. The increased revenue will help cover rising operational and maintenance costs, and any additional funds will be reinvested in updating parking infrastructure to ensure continued safety and accessibility.
Movie Review: “Mission: Impossible” Now Playing at Boone Regal
June 3, 2025 The eighth “Mission: Impossible” movie, “The Final Reckoning,” sees Tom Cruise’s secret agent Ethan Hunt strive to save the world yet again. But this movie has “Final” in its title, so maybe Hunt won’t succeed this time. Maybe the world will be destroyed by the evil A.I. program known as The Entity. Or even worse, maybe Hunt will meet his end and the world will be denied any more of Cruise’s smoldering star power, at least in this franchise. At any rate, Hunt has to defeat not only the all-powerful computer program, but also old human enemy Gabriel (Esai Morales), who is somehow working “for” The Entity. The odds of surviving are really long – and at 170 minutes, so is the movie’s runtime – but Hunt is up to the challenge of saving the world and Cruise is clearly up to the challenge of keeping the audience entertained for that long. I can’t say he succeeds in the latter mission, but he chooses to accept it.
Amos Lee Kicks off the 41st Season of An Appalachian Summer on Saturday, June 28
June 2, 2025 Appalachian State University’s annual multi-disciplinary summer arts celebration, An Appalachian Summer, opens its 41st season with Amos Lee, Saturday, June 28 at 7:30pm at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts. The soulful singer-songwriter released his gold-selling self-titled first album in 2005 and has been known for his association with a long list of collaborators and touring partners, including Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, Zac Brown Band, and Willie Nelson. With a laconic style, gravelly, evocative voice, and acoustic Americana sound, Lee is equally comfortable and affecting amidst a range of genres — from folk, soul, and jazz, to Americana, roots rock, and country — in his quest to connect honestly and emotionally with his audience.
The Watauga Arts Council Introduces Summer Art Classes for All Ages
June 2, 2025 The Watauga Arts Council (WAC) has announced their latest in upcoming summer classes and workshops. Taught by numerous skilled instructors, WAC’s variety of classes provide students the opportunity to learn a new craft or hone in on their current artistic skills. Upcoming courses and workshops for the summer include:
Blue Scholarship Awarded to Genevieve Li Jing Waugh, Watauga High School Student
June 2, 2025 Genevieve “Gigi” Li Jing Waugh, a Watauga High School student, was awarded the John and Ruth Blue Scholarship. She is the 24th recipient of the scholarship which this year awarded $8,000 and is renewable annually for up to four years. The scholarship is awarded by the John and Ruth Blue Scholarship Endowment, a fund of the Watauga County Community Foundation. Genevieve is the daughter of Lynne and Wes Waugh. She is one of the top academic students at Watauga and an AP Scholar.
Town of Boone Proposed Budget FY25/26
May 30, 2025 The proposed budget for the Town of Boone has been presented to the Boone Town Council and is available for public inspection by appointment at Town Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and on the Town’s website: www.townofboone.net. The proposed budget will be discussed at a public hearing on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in Council Chambers located at 1500 Blowing Rock Road. Following the public hearing, the proposed budget will be adopted at the June 25, 2025, regular Town Council meeting at 6:00 p.m. in Town Council Chambers located at 1500 Blowing Rock Road.
All Ears: Banner Elk Unveils First-Ever Summer of Music Featuring 90-Plus Live Performances
May 30, 2025 While the arts have always played a key role in Banner Elk, the town takes it up a notch in 2025 with its first-ever Summer of Music. Top-level national, regional and local acts take the stage at a variety of venues all summer long. The schedule features 90-plus live performances, highlighted by Country Music Hall of Famer Jimmy Fortune, bluegrass stars Jim Lauderdale and Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer John Oates and Gary Morris, who has five No. 1 country songs.
Four Watauga Students Awarded Scholarships from Blue Ridge Energy
May 30, 2025 Blue Ridge Energy recently awarded $32,000 in college scholarships to 14 students across its service area seeking to further their academic goals. The scholarships are part of the Blue Ridge Energy Leadership Track program, designed to help high school students better prepare for acceptance into the college of their dreams. In Watauga County, four students received a total of $10,000.
Grandfather Mountain April Weather Report Saw Fairly Standard Conditions
May 30, 2025 April 2025 saw fairly standard conditions for the month on Grandfather Mountain, according to data recorded at the park’s official weather reporting stations. The average high temperature for April 2025 was 55.01 degrees Fahrenheit, with an average low of 41.79 degrees and a mean of 48.4 degrees. The weather station on the Mile High Swinging Bridge noted six days in April with a wind gust higher than 60 mph. There were 3.92 inches of precipitation observed at the top in April.
UNC Health Appalachian’s Local Chapter of “Walk with a Doc” Starts on June 7th
May 30, 2025 UNC Health Appalachian is proud to announce the launch of a local chapter of Walk with a Doc, a monthly walking program led by our Family Medicine residents designed to promote wellness and build community – one step at a time. On Saturday, June 7, the Boone community is invited to join a monthly physician-led walk that begins with a short health talk followed by a casual walk. The program is free and open to all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, looking for a reason to get outside, or simply interested in connecting with local healthcare providers in a relaxed setting, this is a great opportunity to take charge of your health.
Town of Boone Police Chief Announcement: Daniel Duckworth Has Been Chosen to be the Next Police Chief of the Boone Police Department
May 29, 2025 During the May 28, 2025, Boone Town Council meeting, the Council announced that Daniel Duckworth has been selected as the new Chief of Police for the Boone Police Department. Chief Duckworth has been serving as Interim Police Chief since January 1, 2025, following the retirement of former Chief Andy LeBeau.
Watauga County Farmers’ Market Returns to Daniel Boone Park on May 31
May 29, 2025 The Watauga County Farmers’ Market is pleased to announce its return to Daniel Boone Park, located at 591 Horn in the West Drive, beginning Saturday, May 31. After a temporary relocation to Appalachian State University’s State Farm lot during a repaving project, the Market is excited to welcome customers back to its longtime home — now with a smoother, safer, and more navigable parking lot and market space. “We are thrilled to return to Daniel Boone Park,” said Michelle Dineen, Market Director. “This is the heart of our Market community, and it’s home for the past 50 years! We’re grateful for the improvements that will make it even more welcoming and accessible for everyone.”
Beppe Gambetta and Clay Lunsford with Matthew Weaver to Open 2025 Summer Concert Series at the Jones House on June 6th
May 29, 2025 The Town of Boone is proud to kick off the 2025 Summer Concerts at the Jones House series with an unforgettable evening of world-class roots music on Friday, June 6, beginning at 5:30 PM at the Jones House Cultural Center in downtown Boone. The concert is free and open to the public. The evening begins with a performance by internationally acclaimed Italian guitarist and composer Beppe Gambetta, followed by a set from dynamic Appalachian and Americana duo Clay Lunsford & Matthew Weaver, bringing their rich regional heritage to the Jones House front porch
Elk River Helping Hands Concert Featuring Rock Hall of Fame Member John Oates and Grammy Award-Winning Artist Jim Lauderdale Set for June 20th at Lees-McRae College
May 29, 2025 The Elk River Helping Hands Concert Series proudly announces its next event to be held Friday, June 20, 2025, at Hayes Auditorium on the campus of Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, North Carolina. Doors at 6pm and concert at 7pm. This extraordinary evening of music and community will feature Rock Hall of Famer John Oates (Hall and Oates) and the Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Jim Lauderdale, with proceeds benefiting Hurricane Helene relief efforts in the area
W.A.M.Y. Community Action’s Denim & Diamonds 2025 Event Shines Bright, Raising $119,000 to Support High Country Families
May 29, 2025 On May 22, the High Country community gathered at The White Crow Farm in Banner Elk for WAMY Community Action’s annual Denim & Diamonds gala. The enchanting evening welcomed over 250 guests and raised an incredible $119,000 to aid families in Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey Counties. Proceeds will focus on supporting low-income families, particularly those still recovering from the damage caused by Hurricane Helene.
Petco Love and Watauga Humane Society Aim to Stop the Spread of Deadly Preventable Diseases Through Free Pet Vaccination Event on June 2nd
May 29, 2025 Watauga Humane Society will provide free vaccinations for Watauga County pets. The free vaccines are made possible through Petco Love’s national vaccination initiative, Vaccinated and Loved, which is providing an additional one million free pet vaccines to existing animal welfare partners, including Watauga Humane Society, for family pets in need. Parvovirus and distemper in dogs and panleukopenia in cats—the most prevalent deadly diseases affecting pets—are preventable with a simple vaccine. An estimated 30% of pet parents do not take their pet to a veterinarian annually for preventative care. To ensure the health and wellness of our beloved pets and to address this critical need, Watauga Humane Society and Petco Love have partnered to make pet vaccines free and accessible.