High Country Press

State Auditor reports Town of Newland breakdowns in financial oversight

Ken — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 22:22:45 +0000

August 21, 2026 Boone, NC – August 21, 2026 - "Our investigation into the Town of Newland found breakdowns in financial oversight, procurement practices and tax dollar safeguards,” reported NC State Auditor Dave Boliek. “These findings are a reminder of the importance in having strong financial controls in place, no matter how big or small a municipality. Newland leaders are actively working to address the issues that haven’t already been resolved.”

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Foscoe Home Team Opened New Location August 18

Ken — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 18:19:31 +0000

August 21, 2026 Boone, NC – August 21, 2026 - “Tuesday was full of beautiful moments and connections that show us communities can begin to heal and hope can return,” said Sherrye Trice, Foscoe Home Team’s founder and executive director. “Opening in this new location with the ability to help more people and provide more is a culmination of 691 days of gratitude. Every day we are blessed by the abundance, humility and generosity of the High Country, North Carolina and surrounding states.”

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Congresswoman Virginia Foxx Hosts U.S. Service Academy Day on September 12

Ken — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:29:40 +0000

ELKIN, N.C. – The Office of Congresswoman Virginia Foxx will hold a U.S. Service Academy Day on Saturday, September 12th, from 1-3PM at Surry Community College’s Elkin Center at 1461 N Bridge St, Elkin, NC 28621. Representatives from all five U.S. Service Academies will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on their respective application processes. This event is open to all students, parents, counselors, and educators in North Carolina’s 5th District. To aid in seating logistics, please RSVP by Thursday, September 10th to NC05serviceacademy@mail.house.gov. For questions about the U.S. Service Academy Day, please call Simon Connolly in Congresswoman Foxx’s Mayodan District Office at (336) 778-0211.

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The Exchange Music Hall Presents: Pop Evil, with Lines of Loyalty and Bedlam, Dec. 4

Ken — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:25:38 +0000

Roanoke, VA – August 11, 2026 — Roanoke, Va.’s new, premier venue, The Exchange Music Hall, located at 201 S. Jefferson Street, welcomes modern rock phenomenon Pop Evil, along with opening acts Lines of Loyalty and Bedlam, on Friday, December 4, 2026. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the all-ages show. Bedlam takes the stage at 7 p.m., followed by Lines of Loyalty at 7:50 p.m., leading into headliner Pop Evil at 9 p.m. In addition to GA tickets, a small number of VIP tickets, which feature exclusive access to The Exchange’s Mezzanine Level, are also available. Pop Evil are a modern rock phenomenon. Led by their visionary founder and frontman Leigh Kakaty, the Michigan-born band’s storied career has seen them celebrate nine No.1 hit singles, seven smash-hit albums, and multiple Gold and Platinum certifications. The band’s latest release “What Remains” puts the world on notice that Pop Evil’s next chapter is nigh: one that promises to push the band into heavier and bolder realms than ever before. Pop Evil is Leigh Kakaty on vocals, Davey Grahs and Nick Fuelling on guitar, Joey Chicago on bass and Blake Allison on drums. Melodically magnetic hard-rock trio Lines of Loyalty, and uproarious live-rockers Bedlam, open ...

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MOVIE REVIEW: Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Ken — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:22:24 +0000

By Bob Garver When we last left Peter Parker aka Spider-Man (Tom Holland) back in 2021, he had to submit to a spell from Doctor Strange that would make the world forget he ever existed. His Aunt May (Marissa Tomei) had died, so he had no family left, but he had to watch his friends Ned (Jacob Batalon) and MJ (Zendaya), go off to college without him, blissfully unaware of what they meant to him. As we rejoin Peter in “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” he’s mostly turned himself over to superhero work full-time. There are plenty of dangers around New York City, from minor thugs to supervillains like Scorpion (Michael Mando) to people that just need rescuing. Peter is always happy to swing in and save the day as Spider-Man, but the years of anonymity are taking their toll on the human side of him. Peter has some help. He coordinates with Detective Jean DeWolff (Liza Colón-Zayas), as a liaison to the NYPD. A supposedly-benevolent organization called Damage Control, led by Bill Metzger (Tramell Tillman) deals in superhero affairs. Fellow vigilante Frank “The Punisher” Castle (Jon Bernthal) keeps an eye on things, though Peter disagrees with his ...

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Tickets Now on Sale for A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas

Ken — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:19:50 +0000

BOONE, N.C. – The wait is over! Tickets are now on sale for A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas, the High Country’s favorite holiday tradition, returning to the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country for five performances on December 4–6, 2026. Presented by The Carolina Snowbelles and the Project Dance Foundation, this high-energy holiday production has become one of the region’s most anticipated seasonal events. Featuring precision dance, live singing, dazzling costumes, and heartwarming moments for the entire family, A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas celebrates the joy, wonder, and spirit of the Christmas season through world-class entertainment. The Carolina Snowbelles, founded in 2015, is a tuition-free precision dance company serving young dancers throughout the High Country through a 100% scholarship model. Following multiple sold-out performances in recent years, audiences are encouraged to purchase tickets early. “This show has become so much more than a performance,” said Cheryl Cutlip, Founder and Director of The Carolina Snowbelles. “It’s a celebration of community, mentorship, and the joy of Christmas. Families return year after year, making it part of their holiday tradition, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome everyone back this December.” Performance Schedule

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Watauga County Republican Women’s Club Monthly Meeting Announced

Ken — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:13:28 +0000

Boone, NC – The Watauga County Republican Women’s Club (WCRWC) will have its next monthly meeting on Wednesday August 26 at the Dan’l Boone Inn, 130 Hardin Street, Boone. Arrive at 11:30 AM for lunch, with the meeting to follow at noon. All interested in furthering the Republican cause in the High Country are welcome to attend and are invited to join. Call 828/832-6864 for more information. The WCRWC usually meets the last Wednesday of the month.

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Watauga, Avery Obituaries – August 18th, 2026

Ken — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:24:05 +0000

August 18, 2026 The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland

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Watauga, Avery Obituaries – August 11th, 2026

Ken — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:50:00 +0000

August 11, 2026 The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland

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48th Annual Valle Country Fair Scheduled for October 17, 2026

Ken — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 09:05:05 +0000

VALLE CRUCIS, N.C. — The colors, flavors, sights, and sounds of harvest season in the Blue Ridge Mountains come together on October 17 when the Valle Country Fair (VCF) returns to scenic Valle Crucis for its 48th annual celebration.Craftspeople from across the region, High Country musicians, and the Valle Crucis community are preparing for another memorable event following the record-breaking success of last year’s fair. The 2025 Fair drew 12,261 fairgoers, the largest crowd in the event’s history, with visitors from at least 23 different states. What began in 1979 as a small church bazaar has grown into one of the High Country’s most beloved traditions. To date, the VCF has raised over $1.4 million and distributed 100% of proceeds in grants to 127 different charitable organizations, along with financial assistance to thousands of individuals and families throughout the High Country. Following the most successful fair in its history last year, organizers are looking forward to welcoming multitudes of visitors once again.Fairgoers can enjoy barbecue, Brunswick stew, and other favorite foods while browsing more than 120 booths featuring handcrafted works by regional artisans. Throughout the day, Appalachian musicians will provide a soundtrack to the festivities, set against the backdrop of ...

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Grandfather Mountain Mourns the Loss of Yonnie the Black Bear

Ken — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 09:10:37 +0000

LINVILLE, N.C. – Grandfather Mountain, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, has bid farewell to Yonahlossee (Yonnie) the black bear. Yonnie was humanely euthanized Wednesday, June 24, following advanced-age-related complications, including severe arthritis, that led to difficulty standing and walking. She was 27 years old. “Yonnie will always be remembered for her enthusiasm and the love she showed her cubs,” said Christie Tipton, animal habitats curator for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “Throughout her long life, she was always a spirited bear, and her impact will not be forgotten.” Yonnie was born at a facility out west. On April 13, 1999, at approximately three months of age, Yonnie and her companion bear, Kodiak, flew to Charlotte, N.C., where they were met by their new keepers. From the moment Yonnie was acquired, it was obvious that she would be high-maintenance and feisty. She attacked Kodiak constantly during the ride to their new home. She was named Yonahlossee after the Cherokee word, meaning “trail of the black bear.” Even as an adult, Yonnie was still outspoken and full of attitude, though her attitude softened in her later days, making her calm and sweet. Keepers described her as ...

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Watauga, Avery Obituaries – August 4th, 2026

Ken — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 12:07:00 +0000

August 4, 2026 The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland

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MountainTrue’s River Debris Cleanup Crew has Removed 150,000 Pounds of Storm Debris From High Country Rivers

Ken — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 08:38:31 +0000

August 4, 2026 Boone, NC – August 4, 2026 - The Western North Carolina nonprofit’s High Country team, based in Boone, has removed more than 150,000 pounds of storm debris in Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties since the team was fully assembled in September 2025, and remains at work in the area every day.

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Grandfather Mountain’s annual Junior Naturalist Day to take place Aug. 8

Ken — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 08:46:56 +0000

August 3, 2026 Boone, NC – August 3, 2026 -Grandfather Mountain, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, will host its annual Junior Naturalist Day on Saturday, Aug. 8, with many new offerings this year.

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Daingerfield’s + Peppervine August 7, 2026 – Two Celebrated Resturants, Two Visionary Chefs, One Exclusive Three-Course Dining Experience

Ken — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 09:20:17 +0000

Blowing Rock, NC – Daingerfield’s Fine Dining and Peppervine Restaurant are proud to present The Shared Table: Daingerfield’s + Peppervine, an exciting culinary collaboration bringing together Daingerfield’s Executive Chef Micheal Armes and Peppervine Executive Chef Matt Deering for two exclusive dining experiences celebrating creativity, craftsmanship, and North Carolina’s exceptional culinary talent. The collaboration will debut at Daingerfield’s Fine Dining at Westglow on Friday, August 7, 2026, where guests will enjoy a specially curated three-course collaborative menu with optional wine pairings, showcasing the distinctive culinary styles and shared passion for seasonal ingredients that define both chefs’ work. The partnership will continue in Charlotte on Friday, October 9, 2026, with Chef Micheal Armes and Chef Matt Deering presenting a second three-course collaborative menu at Peppervine Restaurant. The evening will feature expertly selected wine pairings curated by Peppervine’s General Manager and Wine Director, Certified Sommelier Tommy Trull. Featured guest chef Matt Deering, Executive Chef of Peppervine Restaurant and recipient of the 2024 North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association Chef of the Year Award, was born and raised in Charlotte and brings a thoughtful and ever-evolving approach to cuisine rooted in craftsmanship, creativity, and seasonal ingredients. His culinary journey began in Huntersville before continuing ...

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Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Names Track and Field Outstanding Men’s and Women’s Athletes

Ken — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 09:03:00 +0000

August 1, 2026 Boone, NC – August 1, 2026 -“I don’t care if I win or lose — I just want to at least try my best,” Robins said. “I have to just believe in myself.”

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FEMA Announces Additional $197 Million for North Carolina Recovery

Ken — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 08:55:43 +0000

FEMA Announces Additional $197 Million for North Carolina Recovery Microsoft Word – R4-2026-036 FEMA Announces Additional $197 Million for North Carolina Recovery ASHEVILLE, N.C. – FEMA announced an additional $197 million approved this week for more than 30 recovery and mitigation projects to help North Carolina communities recover from Hurricane Helene and past disasters. “This additional $197 million reflects our ongoing partnership with state and local leaders to restore critical infrastructure, support families, and invest in mitigation projects that will help protect North Carolinians from future storms,” said Rob Ashe, FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator. “Our FEMA team in North Carolina continues to fulfill President Trump and Secretary Mullin’s promise to deliver effective federal assistance to the state.” Notable recovery projects FEMA funded include: FEMA is reimbursing North Carolina at no less than a 90% federal share for Hurricane Helene Public Assistance recovery projects, an enhanced level of support reserved for the most significant disasters. Additionally, FEMA approved more than $18.3 million for three mitigation projects in the state of North Carolina: FEMA is funding these mitigation projects at no less than a 75% federal cost share through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. FEMA remains committed to supporting North Carolina’s ...

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Boone Sunrise Rotary Celebrates 40 Years of Service and Welcomes Nick Friedman as Club President

Ken — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 08:37:51 +0000

August 1, 2026 Boone, NC – August 1, 2026 - The Boone Sunrise Rotary Club celebrated another successful year of service while ushering in new leadership during its Annual Dinner Meeting held June 23 at Hound Ears Club. Outgoing President Ben Henderson reflected on an extraordinary year of accomplishments before officially passing the gavel to Nick Friedman, who will serve as Club President for the 2026–2027 Rotary year.

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Eleanor Spicer Rice to join Grandfather Presents lineup Sept. 3

Ken — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 08:32:42 +0000

August 1, 2026 Boone, NC – August 1, 2026 -Spicer Rice is the host of Our State Magazine’s “North Carolina, Naturally,” a print, podcast and video series highlighting the remarkable biodiversity and hidden stories of North Carolina. Her work has appeared in national media, museums, classrooms and public speaking venues across the country, where she is known for blending rigorous science with humor, storytelling and wonder.

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MOVIE REVIEW: Moana

Ken — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 08:28:34 +0000

August 1, 2026 Boone, NC – August 1, 2026 - Moana’s mission requires her to team up with exiled demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson, reprising his role from the original, but now in live-action), who isn’t keen on crossing paths with old enemy Te Fiti. Together they have to keep other parties from stealing the powerful heart for themselves, such as coconut-like pirates the Kakamora and greedy crab Tamatoa (Jemaine Clement, also reprising his role in voice only). Then there’s Te Fiti herself, who is so mistrustful of humans and demigods that she fights our heroes even when they’re trying to do something as helpful as returning her own heart.

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