Business Spotlights Archives

Crossnore Communities for Children Announces Executive Leadership Transition

October 8, 2025 Crossnore, NC (October 8, 2025) — Crossnore Communities for Children recently launched its new three-year strategic plan designed to foster innovation, broaden reach, and enhance impact to ensure a sustainable future for the children, families, and communities it serves. To advance its bold vision for the future, Crossnore’s Board of Trustees approved a leadership restructuring that strengthens the organization’s ability to serve even more children and families. On August 22, the Board voted to divide the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) role into two positions, effective October 1, 2025.

August 27, 2025 Hickory, NC — At Graystone Eye, our mission to preserve the gift of sight extends far beyond the walls of our clinics and surgery center. Through our nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, Graystone Eye Missions, and with the support of our physicians, we are able to carry that mission into communities where access to vision care is scarce—both locally and across the globe. Outreach and service are woven into the very fabric of who we are.

July 7, 2025 The Downtown Boone Development Association has been designated as an Accredited Main Street America program for meeting rigorous performance standards. Each year, Main Street America and its partners announce the list of designated programs to recognize their exceptional commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street ApproachTM. Main Street America recognizes two tiers of national designation — Affiliate and Accredited. These designations are a powerful advocacy tool, signaling to local stakeholders, as well as city, state, and national funders, that a Main Street program has an established position within a nationwide movement with a 45-year proven track record of generating impressive economic returns, building local capacity, creating welcoming and inviting communities, and creating lasting impact.

May 21, 2025. This month, Pepper’s Restaurant & Bar is proud to celebrate 50 years of serving the High Country community with great food, warm hospitality, and a deep-rooted connection to Boone. Founded in 1975, Pepper’s began as a small sandwich shop and has grown into a local institution—recognized not only for its “sumptuous” sandwiches and welcoming atmosphere, but also for its long-standing commitment to the community. Over the years, Pepper’s has become a staple for generations of families, college students, and visitors alike. Known for its signature dishes—like the famous Jean Lawson special, house-made carrot cake baked fresh every morning, and their beloved French onion soup with the little scissors to cut all that cheesy goodness—Pepper’s blends comfort food with a sense of place and tradition.

April 16, 2025 Last weekend, Boone welcomed its newest local spot: Groundhog Coffee, now open next to Bella’s Italian. Founded by 19-year-old independent owner Conor Lowrey, the café has been a dream in the making since 2022. Conor has poured passion and precision into every detail—from the clean yet inviting space to the student baristas, expertly trained by renowned North Carolina coffee educator Destiny Law.

Today marks the launch of High Country Printing and Signs, an innovative printing and signage company committed to transforming the way businesses and organizations communicate through visual design. Led by Josh Moretz, a Watauga County native and industry veteran with almost three decades of experience, High Country Printing and Signs brings fresh ideas and state-of-the-art technology to the table, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses of all sizes.

September 10, 2024 WNC Communities held the 32nd annual Western North Carolina Agricultural Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the WNC Agricultural Center – Davis Event Center in Fletcher. Watauga County alpaca farmer Lee Rankin, a tireless advocate for agritourism in the Western North Carolina, was inducted at this year’s luncheon. Each year, this event serves as a testament to the hard work, innovation, and commitment of those who have shaped our agricultural heritage and future. It recognizes those responsible for agricultural advancement and aims to encourage, improve, and promote agriculture and agribusiness in the region. Lee Rankin, the visionary behind Apple Hill Farm in Banner Elk, North Carolina, has been a transformative force in agritourism and agriculture for over two decades.

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Encore as Its Latest Watauga Leadership Institute Program Beginning in September

July 19, 2024 In an effort to expand the course offerings of its Watauga Leadership Institute, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the creation of Encore, a class designed as a professional development enhancement for local business and community leaders. Launching in September 2024, Encore offers attendees the opportunity to expand their leadership knowledge, mindset, and skills. Each 90-minute session will provide deeper insight into topics introduced during previous Watauga Leadership Institute courses while encouraging the self-renewal and reflection toward guiding leadership principles.

June 28, 2024 In addition to business reports, director election results were announced at the Annual Meeting of Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation held Thursday, June 27. The meeting was available for members to participate in by attending in person at the corporate office or by telephone using instructions provided in the director election kit and Carolina Country magazine sent to all members. Members could also watch by live stream on Blue Ridge Energy’s You Tube channel. Recordings of reports will be online soon at www.BlueRidgeEnergy.com. Over 6,100 cooperative members voted in this year’s director elections by mail and online.

May 20, 2024 Carlton Gallery begins its 42nd Spring Group Exhibition – “Alchemy of Abstraction – Harmony Unveiled” with an Opening Reception on Saturday, May 25 from 2 to 5. This reception affords the opportunity to meet some of the gallery artists in attendance. Mark your calendars for an afternoon of great art and good conversation, while enjoying light hors d’oeuvres. Gallery owner, Toni Carlton, extends an invitation to everyone to visit during this awe-inspiring 42nd Spring Group Exhibition which runs through July 15th.

April 1, 2024 “Off the Rack Vintage Boone is a new business that opened in February 2024 on King Street. As a shoe collector and lover of sneakers, the New Balances and Air Forces in the window of the newly opened store caught my eye, so I decided to venture in. I was surprised to see such urban sneakers in a store on King Street, as sneakers such as Nike Dunks, Jordans, or Air Forces are not a part of the typical market demand in Boone, North Carolina. Once I was in the store, the first sense I felt was a very laid back and chill vibe. Most importantly, it was vintage. There were vintage cereal boxes, a boom box, and classic Looney Tunes photos. By Shantaja Brown

February 20, 2024 Last week at the International Window Cleaning Convention in Galveston TX both Izzy Smeltzer and Rowen Todd Competed and won first place in Two categories. Izzy competed in the women’s speed cleaning and took first place after going head to head with talented women from 3 or more countries including Brazil, Canada, and USA. Rowen entered the Medley competition which includes cleaning a large array of various windows in under 2 minutes while leaving the fewest mistakes. After Mountain Vista’s strong showing we have been invited to Brazil for the South American competitions this November.

Blowing Rock Chamber VP Completes First Year at Institute for Organization Management

February 6, 2024 Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Cathy Barker, Vice President of Business Development, of the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, has recently completed her first year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at University of Arizona in Tucson. Charles Hardin, President and CEO of the Blowing Rock Chamber commented on this opportunity for Barker as she furthers her Chamber experience and gains the necessary knowledge to move forward in her career with the Chamber.

January 29, 2024 The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge in Blowing Rock, North Carolina is a 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalist in the Outstanding Restaurant category. Semifinalists are recognized as exemplary in their category; the top 5 in each award category will be announced as Nominees this spring. According to the James Beard Foundation’s website, the Outstanding Restaurant Award recognizes restaurants that “demonstrate consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality, and operations while contributing positively to their broader community.”

December 4, 2023 VPC Builders has been awarded North Carolina’s 2023 Small Business of the Year by Business North Carolina.Out of the 70 or more nominees who topped the judges list, VPC Builders and three other small businesses (one from each region) were selected for their outstanding entrepreneurial spirit that is a catalyst to North Carolina’s economic prosperity.Judges for the contest were Byron Hicks, the state director of the N.C. Small Business and Technology Center; Jennifer Curtis, co-founder and CEO of Firsthand Foods, a Durham distributor for local farms and meat processors, and one of the 2022 Small Businesses of the Year; and Business North Carolina Publisher Ben Kinney.

October 20, 2023 There are many arts and craft festivals that take place across the High Country, especially in the summer, and at these events, there are various vendors who are excited to share their creations with others. Anything from drawing, pottery, tie dye, woodwork, jewelry, and more gives consumers lots to explore and appreciate. Ashe County resident Jessica Russell is just one local artist in the area; however, her products are more than just materialistic items – each piece holds a slice of history and a part of her personal story. By Harley Nefe

October 12, 2023 With the mountain scenery that surrounds the area and the breathtaking views that can be enjoyed by all, the High Country is a hub for outdoor opportunities. Hiking, camping, and picnicking are just some of the ways nature enthusiasts can experience the environment. And with all of these activities, there is one product available that can take one’s adventure to the next level. Whether you’re going to a live music festival or catching a sporting event at the park, Tarpestry tarps make a statement no matter the occasion. By Harley Nefe

August 8, 2023 Many counties within the Tar Heel State have been celebrated as the horse country for well over a century. The horse people of the High Country have owned, rode, showed, and enjoyed these four-legged friends for multiple generations. Horses are surely a contender for the title of “man’s best friend,” as animal-human connections like these are rarely seen outside of those formed with dogs and cats. By Peter Morris

July 31, 2023 At all types of gatherings – whether it be for holidays, celebratory events, or regular get-togethers – a delicious treat can usually be found that is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face: chocolate. A local High Country resident is spreading cheer one piece at a time with her midlife transformation that has resulted in a new business venture – Boone Chocolat. By Harley Nefe

July 6, 2023 A walk down main street in Blowing Rock would not be complete without a visit to High Country Candles and Blowing Rock Pottery, located in the historic Martin House. Visitors and homefolk alike have found the unique shop to be more than the perfect place to pick up the perfect gift for any occasion. Many recognize the family-owned and operated business to be a “connection” to the High Country area. By Sherrie Norris

June 14, 2023 Josiah Davis knows beans. He and his wife, Meredith, opened Local Lion roastery and coffee shop in Boone in 2012, and Venture Chocolate and Wine shop on King Street in 2022. By Jan Todd

May 1, 2023 “It’s the little things that make a difference,” said Marsha Speer, innkeeper with her husband John at Lazy Bear Lodge Bed and Breakfast near Valle Crucis. By Jan Todd

March 30, 2023 March is Women’s History Month, and to continue the series of Women of the High Country, High Country Press is spotlighting Ashley Galleher, owner of Zionville Ramp Company. Zionville Ramp Company is a female-owned business in the High Country offering skateboarding camps, lessons, and even custom half-pipes for clients. By Sebastian Dionicio

March 13, 2023 Women’s History Month is celebrated every March. In honor of Women’s History Month, High Country Press is spotlighting women-owned businesses in the High Country and the local entrepreneurs who founded them. This week, High Country Press is spotlighting Kathy Carlin, owner of Appalachian Hair Salon. By Sebastian Dionicio

March 9, 2023 It’s not often that I get to interview a mascot, but today was an exception. In this exclusive interview, learn more about some of Hutch’s shenanigans as well as his goals for the Watauga Humane Society. Follow him on Facebook to see where his latest adventure will take him. By Kris Testori

+ More Articles

Crossnore Communities for Children Announces Executive Leadership Transition

Graystone Eye’s Commitment to Care Reaches Bolivia

Downtown Boone Development Association (DBDA) Designated as a 2025 Accredited Program by Main Street America

Pepper’s Restaurant & Bar Celebrates 50 Years in Boone; a Local Institution

GROUNDHOG COFFEE CO. OPENS IN BOONE

Watauga Native Josh Moretz Launches High County Printing and Signs

Lee Rankin of Apple Hill Farm in Banner Elk Inducted Into the WNC Ag Hall of Fame

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Encore as Its Latest Watauga Leadership Institute Program Beginning in September

Blue Ridge Energy Annual Meeting: Reports Presented, Director Election Results Announced

Carlton Gallery Hosts its 42nd Spring Group Exhibition – “Alchemy of Abstraction – Harmony Unveiled” with Opening Reception on May 25

The Hottest New Store on King Street in Boone: Off the Rack Vintage

Mountain Vista Window Washing Wins Two International Window Cleaning Titles

Blowing Rock Chamber VP Completes First Year at Institute for Organization Management

Restaurant at Gideon Ridge in Blowing Rock Named 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalist

Business North Carolina names VPC Builders 2023 Small Business of the Year

Wire Wrapped: Jessica Russell’s Jewelry Journey

Tarpestry: Built in the Blue Ridge

Yonahlossee Stables: Hoofbeats in the High Country

Boone Chocolat: Delivering the Food of the Gods

High Country Candles: Shaping Community Connections for 30 Years

Roast of the Town

Behind the Scenes at Lazy Bear Lodge

Women of the High Country: Zionville Ramp Company Promotes a Passion for Skateboarding

Women of the High Country: Appalachian Hair Salon Celebrates 21 Years in Business

Q and A with… Watauga Humane Society’s Hutch Husky