Opening
Back in the Day: The Love Valley Thing
by Bailey Sherrill
In 1970, hippies took over Love Valley for a rock ’n‘ roll weekend.
July 2018 Welcome Letter: Summer Sounds Like This
by Elizabeth Hudson
They’re different for everyone, but there are certain sounds — deeply impressed in the soul — that tell us the seasons are changing and warmer weather is here.
Our State Quiz: Thrill Seekers
by Alan Hodge
In the air, on land, or in the water, North Carolina’s outdoor adventures get your heart racing.
Letters
This is North Carolina
We Live Here
Downtown: Saxapahaw
by Katie Schanze
On the banks of the Haw River, a tiny town in Alamance County is enjoying a rural renaissance.
Like Father, Like Son
by Jennifer Brookland
On family land in Lenoir County, a fourth-generation farmer finds beauty and promise in our sweetest summer fruit.
Round Peak Vineyard in Mount Airy
by Katie King
At Round Peak Vineyard, raise a glass to the beauty of Surry County.
Ole Mason Jar in Charlotte
by Caroline Kelly
At a men’s clothing store in the heart of uptown, classic designs never go out of fashion.
Toad & Wee: Slide & Splash
by Drew Perry
North Carolinians learn at an early age to brace themselves for the chilly thrill of zooming down Sliding Rock and plunging into the cold mountain water at the bottom.
Eats
Recipes: Patriotic Plates
by Lynn Wells
Abrams BBQ & Seafood
by Our State Staff
At a handful of Abrams BBQ & Seafood restaurants across eastern North Carolina, the founding family invites you to load up your plate at the buffet and join them for a meal.
Features
Ramblin’ Man: Dance Hall Days
by T. Edward Nickens
The weathered clubhouse that sits on the edge of a farm pond in Randolph County may be faded, but the memories made there are still vibrant.
The Miracle of Hickory
by Philip Gerard
When polio strikes children in the Piedmont, doctors, nurses, and volunteers rise to the occasion to build an emergency quarantine hospital.
Photo Essay: A Light Within
by Katie Saintsing
In the more than 300 years since the Religious Society of Friends brought their way of life to North Carolina, Quakers have maintained a steady presence here. Today, their belief in peace, quiet reflection, and inner light shines faithfully.
Summer in Jackson County
The Spirit of High Summer
by Susan Stafford Kelly
High Hampton’s mountain charm, relaxed atmosphere, and rich legacy have set the vacation standard for generations.
Reading a River
by David Joy
Some 4,600 miles of trout-rich waters weave through Jackson County. All those rainbows, brookies, and browns are easy to find, but hard to catch — unless you have legendary fly-fishing guides Roger Lowe and Henry Williamson by your side.
Beyond the Valley
by Sheri Castle
In Sapphire, a majestic box canyon — the largest one east of the Mississippi — provides a feast for the eyes, and the first taste of Canyon Kitchen’s seasonal, sensory experience.
Into the Woods
by Katie Schanze
Come July, Jackson County wildflowers pop with color. A walk through a quiet cove forest reveals the new blooms of plant species as old as the hills.
Decidedly Sylva: Innovation Brewing Company
by David A. Graham
A young, enterprising couple set their sights on a small town with big appeal. They built their taproom from the inside out, and, 32 brews later, it’s now a local hub.
Closing
Carolina Calendar: July 2018
by Our State Staff
Whether you’re in the mood for barbecue and beach music or fruit festivals and fireworks, we’ve got your holiday plans covered.
NC Primer: Pop Quiz
by Susan Stafford Kelly
Yes, the state beverage is milk, but our native sodas bring the fizz.