Highlights of the Carolina Outdoors

Today we are joined by Drew Thrasher, guide for the Jesse Brown’s-sponsored ‘Walk in the Park’ for years. Drew is a resident within the SouthPark district and serves on the Board of the SouthPark Area Neighborhood Association. Drew brings with him his knowledge of the district for an episode about the SouthPark loop trail and the history of the region.

David Fleming has spent the last thirty years in sports journalism. Working in the long-form journalism field for Sports Illustrated, ESPN Magazine, and Meadowlark Media. Despite gorwing up in Detroit, David has called the Charlotte Area home for the last 25 years, and it was here, in Charlotte, that his interest in the Declaration of Independence began to spark, David is an upcoming Storyteller at Jesse Brown’s, on April 10th. Join us in welcoming Author and Adventurer, David Fleming!

Dan Nance has spent his life creating art. While we will delve into the creative side of Dan on this episode, we’ll also explore the adventurous side of Dan that he uses to create excitement and inspiration for his art. Dan is an upcoming Storyteller at Jesse Brown’s on April 10th.

March 8th, 2025 Each Year, the first Saturday in April marks the re-opening of Trout Season, a generational tradition for thousands of families across the state and country. Join us as we delve into the sport of trout fishing, with a spin from the ‘Big guys’ on what it means to them, too. Today we are joined by Jake Rash, a Cold Water Research Coordinator for the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, and avid Fly Fisherman. Segment Highlights: Turkey Season coming up in NC and SC in the coming months Trout season– March means closures, but not everywhere October to June Catch/Release in Delayed Harvest waters, stocking updates Opportunities to fish for wild fish and holdovers from previous years NCwildlife.gov and other resources available to anglers like you! NCFW’s approach to working with the fishing and Fly Fishing community, and their interactions with the people they serve ‘Opening Day’ traditions and changes– what does Opening Day mean to Carolinians? Destination angling- how the WNC trout resources affect local economies throughout our state Things You’ll Learn by Listening: There’s a lot to learn about Trout from Jake Rash, but today Bill and Jake are tackling the questions of: Which waters are open in March? When is a good day to fish? And what the First Saturday in April means to the NC Wildlife Commission, and its constituents. Jake also delves into the look at WNC trout resources and their future post-Helene, with an optimistic glance at what’s to come. Jesse Brown’s outfits fly anglers and outdoorsmen of all kinds each and every day from the ‘ol Brick and Mortar in Sharon Corners, but we are more than happy to serve you from our Website as well! Stop on in or give us a click or call to prepare for your next adventure.

March 8th, 2025 The Appalachian Trail marks an iconic and historic ideal in outdoor recreation- inspiring some 4,000 hikers each year to hike the entirety of the 2,197 mile long trail within a period of about six months. The window opens at the end of February, and typically runs until the beginning of October, when hikers can expect to reach the end of the trail. There is scarcely a greater accomplishment in the world of long distance backpacking. Today we are joined by Matt Long, who hiked the entire trail in 2005, is back on the Carolina Outdoors to give a clue into what through hiking is like. Matt is a lifetime outdoorsman, inspired initially by a poster on the wall in his geography classroom, built up by his life in Scouting and continued by his own passion and family into today. Segment Highlights: Through hiking, Section hiking, and ‘Continuous Section Hiking’- the difference between them all The beauty of accomplishing the trail in short amounts of time, and the accomplishment of doing it over a lifetime Matt’s inspiration to hike the trail and why he did it How Matt and other thru-hikers ‘prepare’ for the trail, mentally and logistically The importance of exercising before the journey begins What matters more? Logistical prep or mental prep? Budgeting concerns and situations Bill Bryson’s ‘A Walk in the Woods’ the book Matt used and valued most in preparing for his experience. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: This podcast episode details essential parts of the planning, preparation, experience and aftermath of any great outdoor adventure. Matt’s stories of Appalachian Trail glory and Iron Man race prep can inspire anyone toward their next adventure, or help them remember the best parts of those already passed. Jesse Brown’s Is your one-stop-shop for any hike you’re planning, whether 2 miles or 2,000. Come on in for your next pair of hiking boots, maps, or just plain old advice!

March 8th, 2025 Virginia Trophy Guides is a premier guide service targeting wild and stocked trout, Smallmouth Bass, and even the fish of ten thousand casts– The Muskellunge. Virginia Trophy Guides are highlighted in one of this year’s premier Fly Fishing Film tour features: Dan’s Pain 2, and will be present at this year’s screening of the F3T here in Charlotte, NC, at the Visulite Theater on March 20th Today we are joined by Austin Conrad, Captain and guide with Virginia Trophy Guides. Austin and the Virginia Trophy Guides are highlighted in one of this year’s premier Fly Fishing Film tour features: Dan’s Pain 2. Segment Highlights: Difference in difficulty of targeting and guiding for Musky, smallmouth, and trout The mental and physical perseverance and toughness required for Musky Fishing Best chances to catch trophy bass and musky this year How the ‘showbiz’ affects the business of guiding, and how Austin used the F3T to build his career and the prestige of the Fly Fishing Film Tour ‘Dan’s pain 1’ and how a joke about tuna spawned the reality of Dan’s Pain 2– This time with Musky! Ben Meadows feature on the Carolina Outdoors and his take on the movie Come see the Virginia Trophy guides, Blane Chocklett, and Jesse Brown’s team at the 2025 F3T, this March 20th at the Visulite Theater! Things You’ll Learn by Listening: What the guiding and fly fishing world looks like in our northern neighbor– and a little of what fly fishing Showbiz brings to us in Charlotte! Jesse Brown’s takes pride in outfitting many Fly Fishermen and hikers every Spring and Fall, ready for any adventure. Stop by for your tying supplies or a new Rod!

March 8th, 2025 The Carolina Fly Fishing Club began in 2006 with the help of the Federation of Fly Fishers. The purpose of the CFC is to expand the sport of fly fishing to more species, habitats, people and regions throughout the states of North and South Carolina. Today we are joined by Bill Jewitt, President of the Carolina Fly Fishing Club. Bill has been involved with CFC for five years, enjoying fishing, tying and fellowship through the club all the while. Segment Highlights: History of the Carolina Fly Fishing Club What the aims and methods of the Carolina Fly Fishing Club are Connections between the CFFC and Project Healing Waters The events and programs put on by the CFFC every year Monthly meetings at Bass Pro Shops, with speakers and program Stocking Reports and more that you can learn Current status of rivers and access in the western half of the state CFFC connection to the F3T, this March 20th at the Visulite Theater Things You’ll Learn by Listening: A little more about how you can get involved in the local Fly Fishing Community, and how it benefits anglers all across the state. Jesse Brown’s takes pride in outfitting many Fly Fishermen and hikers every fall and spring, ready for any adventure. Stop by for your tying supplies or a new Rod!

March 1st, 2025 Steele Creek is an area of southwest Charlotte, once its own town. Since the beginning, though, Steele Creek has been important to the history and culture of the Charlotte Area. Today we dive into the modern traces of history and the present-day population boom in the region. Whether it’s the Charlotte Airport, Presbyterians, or an Outlet Mall, there’s a lot to talk about. Today we are joined by Christopher Lawing, creator of the Charlotte Sign Project and the author of Charlotte: Signs of the Times. Christopher also leads the Charlotte Sign Project and other local historical initiatives, including the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence. Segment Highlights: Dive into the state of the Steele Creek Presbyterian Church and its Cemetery What the Charlotte Airport is doing in the area, and how it’s expansion protects and threatens the region 250th Anniversary of the “Meck Deck” or Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence Steele Creek: an Early History by Linda Blackwell written over the course of 50 years Bobby M. Setzer Hatchery and Armstrong Hatchery status The evolution of Steele Creek from an agricultural region to an industrial and commercial hotspot Camp Steere, A former Mecklenburg County Council Boy Scout Camp in the area, and how it became McDowell Nature Preserve Things You’ll Learn by Listening: A little more about an understated area of Charlotte- A long history of people, improvement, and change. The past present and future of Steele Creek, and what people are doing to preserve the history that remains in the area. Jesse Brown’s takes pride in outfitting many Fly Fishermen and hikers every fall and spring, ready for any adventure. Stop by for your next pair of boots or a new Rod!

March 1st, 2025 Spring is coming fast here in North Carolina, and with it, an exciting time for trout anglers throughout the state. Today we’ll go over the March stocking schedule, discuss the annual closure of hatchery supported streams for the month of March, and more! Today we are joined by Elijah St. Blancard, the Head guide and lead instructor at our sponsor, Jesse Brown’s. Segment Highlights: Optimistic outlook on the 2025 spring fishing season Why the Hatchery-Supported Streams close for the month of March When, where and what will be stocked in NC this Spring (and a preview of the fall stocking) Road Closures and accessibility of streams Post-Helene Bobby M. Setzer Hatchery and Armstrong Hatchery status Which streams were stocked in the Fall, Spring, or both When and why the insect hatches will take place, providing opportunity for dry fly fishing. Jesse Brown’s hosting a Fly Fishing Workshop on March 13th and 15th for new anglers Things You’ll Learn by Listening: One Guide’s approach to the unique spring 2025 Trout season, with all the caveats involved. Giving you an outlook into the status of the streams, roads, and hills that make trout fishing special. Your upcoming opportunities as an angler, whether just starting out or with years of experience! Jesse Brown’s takes pride in outfitting many Fly Fishermen and hikers every fall and spring, ready for any adventure. Stop by for your next pair of boots or a new Rod!

February 22nd, 2025 The Appalachian Trail, regarded as a National Scenic Trail by the National Parks Service and maintained by volunteers from that organization and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, represents one of America’s most popular pastimes: Hiking and Backpacking. More than 3,000 attempts are made each year to ‘Through-Hike’ the 2,197-mile trail, and many millions more step foot on the trail for a day or weekend hike every year. Today we are joined by Eagle Trail Dancer, a seasoned hiker and backpacking enthusiast. Having backpacked the entirety of the Appalachian Trail (AT) over the course of thirty-five years. Eagle has volunteered extensively in trail conservancy efforts in VA and SC. Sober for 49 years, he shares his experiences with AA, ACOA, and PTSD recovery groups throughout the course of his journey to finish the trail. Segment Highlights: What a ‘white blaze’ is, and what it signifies to Eagle Trail Dancer and other hikers along the AT. Mid-October 1988, the Shenandoah Mountains. The site of the First Section. Old Kelty Packs, and other gear that Eagle had with him for those first few steps. 3-man, 8 Pound tent! Vasque Boots, then, today and tomorrow for Eagle Trail Dancer. Eagle Trail Dancer’s physical and mental progression over the 35 year journey. 5-6 days away from work makes for limited progress. Eagle began his journey as a Marathon runner, still had to make adjustments despite being in great health. ‘Cathedral’ of the woods- the spiritual and religious experience of hiking the trail Party culture and ‘yellow blaze’ in the northern part of the trail with other hikers Things You’ll Learn by Listening: A day in the life of a section hiker, featuring the internal and external pressures you feel on the trail. The reality of one man’s struggle and triumph over addiction, PTSD, and how the trail strengthened him through it all. The history of the pastime of hiking the Appalachian Trail; In one straight shot or in multiple sections. Jesse Brown’s takes pride in outfitting many backpackers and hikers every fall and spring, ready for any adventure. Stop by for your next pair of boots or a new pack!

February 22nd, 2025 The Appalachian Trail, regarded as a National Scenic Trail by the National Parks Service and maintained by volunteers from that organization and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, represents one of America’s most popular pastimes: Hiking and Backpacking. More than 3,000 attempts are made each year to ‘Through-Hike’ the 2,197-mile trail, and many millions more step foot on the trail for a day or weekend hike every year. Today we are joined by Eagle Trail Dancer, a seasoned hiker and backpacking enthusiast. Having backpacked the entirety of the Appalachian Trail (AT) over the course of thirty-five years. Eagle has volunteered extensively in trail conservancy efforts in VA and SC. Sober for 49 years, he shares his experiences with AA, ACOA, and PTSD recovery groups throughout the course of his journey to finish the trail. Segment Highlights: Why Eagle Trail Dancer goes by his ‘trail name’, and how it came to be An exploration into the separate subculture of section hiking the trail, in contrast to through hiking What inspired Eagle Trail Dancer to begin hiking, and why he did it the way he did Growing up in a PTSD and alcoholic home– how Eagle endured and escaped the abuse of his upbringing Eagle Trail Dancer’s realization of his own habits and how he steeled himself against alcoholism. The continued fight AFTER the drinking stopped, to forgive and find an new path. The first section Eagle hiked, and his mental and physical preparation for that first experience on the trail Things You’ll Learn by Listening: What resources are available to those struggling with their own or other’s alcoholism The reality of one man’s struggle and triumph over addiction, PTSD, and how the trail strengthened him through it all. The history of the pastime of hiking the Appalachian Trail; In one straight shot or in multiple sections. Jesse Brown’s takes pride in outfitting many backpackers and hikers every fall and spring, ready for any adventure. Stop by for your next pair of boots or a new pack!

February 15th, 2025 Among our favorite events of the year is always the F3T, or the Fly Fishing Film Tour. This year’s film tour will arrive in Charlotte on March 20th, at the historic Visulite Theater, on Elizabeth Avenue. Today we are joined by Ben Meadows; fly fisherman, angler, videographer and storyteller from Dorsal Outdoors. Ben has joined us before on the Carolina Outdoors, several years ago to promote the first film of his that made it to the F3T mainstage, Dan’s Pain. This year, Ben returns with the sequel, Dan’s Pain 2, and is happy to tell us all about it in this week’s episode. Segment Highlights: Adventure, Culture and Fishing; Dan’s Pain 2 highlight the comical, not-so-idyllic side of fishing Dan decides to break his curse on the fish of 10,000 casts- golden opportunity to make a film There are all types of telescopes on the property & utilized by people from all over the world Filming process complicated by the nature of Dan and his pain; minimal scripting based on Mother nature’s will This film features Blane Chocklett, legendary fly guide and tyer; author of Game Changer: how to tie flies that look and swim like the Real Thing. Incredible behind-the-scenes information and insight into the inspiration, creative processes, and experience of filming an outdoor sport film. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: What the world of Musky Fishing looks and feels like; Highs, lows, and all the boredom in between. You can see Dan’s Pain 2, and many other films, at this year’s Fly Fishing Film Tour on March 20th at the Visulite Theater. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte Fly Fishing Outfitter, Jesse Brown’s. Get your lines rigged, your waders on, grab a ticket to the F3T, and see us on March 20th!

February 15th, 2025 One of our oldest friends in the fly fishing business is Trout Unlimited: an organization that got its start with a group of friends in the 1950’s and has since spread to more than 400 chapters across the United States. Today we are joined by Paul Duffie, the outgoing president of the Rocky River Trout Unlimited Chapter. Ben has joined us before on the Carolina Outdoors and returns this week to give us a little information on the habits of Trout Unlimited chapters here in Charlotte, and nationwide. Segment Highlights: Maintaining the tradition and honoring the legacy of Trout Unlimited within the Chapter, which celebrates 43 years since its founding at Jesse Brown’s Outdoors. Fly tying, wildlife biologists and more keynote speakers typically denote a TU (Trout Unlimited) meeting Meetings take place at local community centers such as Jesse Brown’s, Hop Fly Brewery, and Covenant Presbyterian. All meetings of the Rocky River chapter are ‘open’, inviting the public to attend and enjoy the benefits of TU. Rocky River TU hosts two yearly camping trips, in the fall and spring, to WNC to promote fishing and camaraderie. TU also focuses greatly on Conservation, with Paul filling us in on what they’ve been up to in the wake of Hurricane Helene, and their ongoing efforts in Classrooms across the state. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: What it means to be a member of Trout Unlimited- how when, where, and how often the chapter meets, and what a meeting looks like. Detailed examples of the Chapter’s conservation and education efforts, from the ‘Trout in the Classroom’ program, to stream cleanups and educational seminars. The Rocky River Trout Unlimited Chapter was founded at the Charlotte Fly Fishing Outfitter, Jesse Brown’s. Come by and see the new Spring fly fishing gear, Including Rods, Reels, Lines, flies and everything else you may need to get out on the water.

Segment 1, February 1st, 2025 The Carolina Outdoors sponsor Jesse Brown’s has several events coming up. Upcoming Events: Fly Fishing Streamer Class and Float: February 6th & 8th, 2025 Fly Tying Class, February 24th, at Jesse Brown’s, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. March 20th brings the F3T 2025 Charlotte coming to the Visulite Theatre April 5th & 12th include a guided hike on The Loop Trail in Charlotte’s SouthPark area Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Jesse Brown’s is going on 55-years of outfitting people for adventure. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 2, February 1st, 2025 Scott Dunstan is one of the most accomplished sportsman in the Charlotte-area. As duck season began to close, Dunstan, podcast host & owner of The Dunstan Group, recently returned from a broad east coast hunt. Show Highlights: Dunstan grew up in Elizabeth City just west of Currituck County, NC. Currituck is known for its duck hunting and that’s where Dunstan & Russell Hull began their journey After tough hunting in North Carolina, for mallards and teals, due to end of the season and a front blowing into the area they headed north. The trip was in pursuit of two duck species, the common eider & the oldsquaw (since renamed Long-Tailed Duck) The utilized the knowledge and skill of local guides in the Cape Code coastal area of Massachusetts Being outside with friends, doing something active, & achieving an objective together helps reset and refresh Dunstan to take on new goals. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: The common eider and long-tailed duck are both diving ducks that are native to the colder regions of the north. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Stop by and check out the winter jackets, too.

Segment 3, February 1st, 2025 The new year brings new resolution. Gym membership rises, diets begin, and thoughts of spring and summer camp become important to think about. YMCA of Greater Charlotte has many programs throughout the region. It also has two great camps for people to utilize as a day camp or an overnight: Thunderbird & Harrison. Segment Highlights: Preparing for spring and summer camps are important Camp helps develop independence and interests that youth may have Thunderbird is on the banks of Lake Wylie & Camp Harrison is located 95 miles from Charlotte in Boomer, NC. Harrison just celebrated its 25th year. Adventure and Skills Classes are available at both camps Lake Broyhill is a 140 acre lake that goes next to the 120,000 acres Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Peterson has been involved with the Y for years. He, his wife, and children have all attended camp as a family and as individuals. The Carolina Outdoors is sponsored by local Charlotte outfitter, Jesse Brown’s

Segment 4, February 1st, 2025 Massive Wildfires in have been contained in Western North Carolina. Residents have been able to return home. One home was damaged and several outbuildings were destroyed in the 250 acre + in the Bat Cave and Old Fort areas. The fire came from dryness in the tinder from dead trees, brush, and debris. Listen to our prior interview with National Forest Service District Ranger, Jen Barnhart, to learn more about wildfire prevention. Segment Highlights: Wildfire is thought to begin from a tree that fell across a power line Visit sponsor at the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s’. YMCA Charlotte for membership or camp information with Randy Peterson with the Camp Harrison Scott Dunstan from The Dunstan Group with an epic duck hunting trip from Currituck, NC to Cape Cod, MA. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Think about if children now spend more time outside than you did as a child. It’s a topic that we’d like to talk about in future shows. What do you think? The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s.  

Segment 1, January 18th, 2025 A look into the literature about Charlotte’s illustrious and storied SouthPark Area, and the people behind it all. Segment Highlights: Natalie Dick, Writer and columnist for SouthPark Magazine SouthPark’s regional economic influence and importance Human interest stories and more from the Business District What makes this area so important and special to Charlotteans Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Why journalism matters in our area, and who supports it. The Carolina Outdoors thanks our Sponsor, Jesse Brown’s for their support.

Segment 3, January 18th, 2025 One of the most popular places for people to enjoy the outdoors are actually places that were created to conserve, manage, & sustain: National Forests Segment Highlights: Jen Barnhart is the District Ranger of the Appalachian Ranger District The Appalachian Ranger District is north of Asheville and goes all the way to Tennessee. It’s made up of six counties and includes parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail, and Roan Mountain It was hard hit by Helene. Trees down, roads washed away, and other damage has kept this district closed Fire prevention is a big concern for North Carolina’s National Forests. Prescribed burns help control the tinder and fuels that wildfire’s burn The NFS has a successful partnership with volunteers, state, and municipalities in the area Things You’ll Learn by Listening: North Carolina follows Texas and California with the highest number of fires. 90% of them are caused by people. The Carolina Outdoors is sponsored by local Charlotte outfitter, Jesse Brown’s

Segment 2, January 18th, 2025 One of America’s most iconic and popular wintertime activities, Ski season is well underway. Today we join with Kim Jochl, of Sugar Mountain Resort for a report on the hobby here in the Carolinas. Segment Highlights: Kim Jochl– Owner and Operator of Sugar Mountain Resort in Avery County, NC Weather reports, 54″ inches of snow so far this season. Temps down into the teens most night sessions. Resorts are fully open, with new improvements and lifts made for large crowds. January and February holidays make up the peak season for skiing in NC, MLK day, President’s day, Valentine’s, etc. Safety is a major priority on the mountain, with Ski Patrol and classes being taught around the clock to keep everyone confident and safe. As-necessary snow making schedule, taking advantage of the natural snow and low temperatures to preserve snow conditions Snowboarding and Skiing are both still growing as viable hobbies, benefit from good winters! Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Current status and improvements made to the NC skiing region near Grandfather Mtn. Our Sponsor, Jesse Brown’s, carries a selection of gear you may need if you plan to hit the slopes this new year.

January 18th, 2025 SouthPark Magazine joins the Carolina Outdoors in Studio D. The March 2025 Edition features host of the program, Bill Bartee. Segment Highlights: SouthPark Magazine is a luxury lifestyle magazine sharing the best of Charlotte living: arts, style, cuisine, interior design and culture. Natalie Dick’s SouthPark Sit Down covers people in the community in different places around SouthPark. Follow them on social: Facebook, X, Instagram Things You’ll Learn by Listening: The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte hiking store, Jesse Brown’s. Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a water bottle, and get outdoors.

Segment 3, January 11th, 2024 Providence Road Corridor Charlotte is everchanging. The Carolina Outdoors has existed and covered the Carolinas and beyond for a long time. During this segment we head to the Providence Road Corridor at Queens/Queens, Providence/ Providence Road area with Charlotte History Project founder, Christopher S. Lawing. Show Highlights: This area included the Manor Theater, Myers Park Hardware, & the Buttercup The roadway splits Myers Park and Eastover neighborhoods Mecklenburg Furniture is becoming a training center of Charlotte Pipe and Foundry The 250th Anniversary of the Meck Deck (May 20th, 1775) Things You’ll Learn by Listening: The corridor travels between Queens University and Novant/Presbyterian Hospital. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Stop by and check out the winter jackets, too.

Segment 1, December 14th, 2024 Travel Season Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is one of the busiest in the world. The estimate is a 10% Increase from last years season.Show Highlights: Do the terror attacks limit travel Comments from clients at Jesse Brown’s Local Skiing and packing up your hunting gear Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Six different skiing mountains are open for the winter season and Crowder’s Mountain State Park is open. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Stop by and check out the winter jackets, too.

Segment 2, December 14th, 2024 Travel Season Are people dissuaded from travel through when bad incidents happen?Show Highlights: Terrorism in New Orleans, LA, and at Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, NV Millions are travelling during the holiday. Upcoming events: Jimmy Carter Funeral, Donald Trump Inauguration, and other holidays create reasons for travel Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Challenge Skills ratio is something where the challenge should be slightly above our skill to create the growth desired by adventure. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Stop by and check out the winter jackets, too.

Segment 3, January 4th, 2024 Learning about Ice Fishing Ice fishing is a mystery to many growing up in the south. Jesse Brown’s Fly Fishing Guide, Ryley McKnight, grew up ice fishing in Angelica, NY. He shares his time fishing the cold with the Carolina Outdoors. Show Highlights: McKnight says that cabin fever and the love of fishing drive people to the ice. Ice fishing can be for an individual sportsman or a strong social activity. Pike, Walleye, and Rainbows are still eating and plentiful in upstate NY with icefishing Hunting clothes need to be washed in scent free detergent and packed away for the next season unless they’re needed to be worn through the winter. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Fishing trips are available with Jesse Brown’s (just not the ice fishing kind). The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s.

January 4th, Segment 4 The Carolina Outdoors is celebrating winter with the six different mountains and resorts open for the season.Show Highlights: Day trips and Night Skiing are available at several NC resorts Rentals are available on the mountains and in ski and snowboard shops in mountain towns and at shops in Charlotte. The jackets and warm clothes that our sponsor, Jesse Brown’s sells is usable in other situations that just skiing. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: If you head out skiing or snowboarding this winter please remember to wear your helmet. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter in Charlotte. Men’s outdoor pants are popular during this season for protection, fit, & style. Stop by the online site for Men’s pants at Jesse Brown’s, Duckhead, Mountain Khakis, & Kuhl are all on-hand. Plus, fly fishing guided trips that originate at Jesse Brown’s, the fly shop of Charlotte, are ongoing.

Segment 1, December 21st, 2024 Visit the sponsor of the Carolina Outdoors at Shop.JesseBrowns.Com or when in Charlotte. Segment Highlights: Laurel Falls Trails is closing in the Great Smokey Mountains for renovations and rehabilitation. Laurel Falls is 80 feet tall and the trails sees over 300,000 visitors Things You’ll Learn by Listening: New viewing stations and improved parking are being done to manage over-crowding in the busiest national park in the system. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 2, December 21st, 2024 HB Ratterree has spent time in both states of the Carolinas. He reports to the Carolina Outdoors from Raleigh. His unique view in some newsworthy items that happened in 2024. Segment Highlights: Columbia, SC & Raleigh, NC, have both states and others in the southeast measuring the trend of decreasing population of wild turkeys. Poor recruitment of poults & predators have both been a part of that reduction. North Carolina’s Roanoke River Striper population decrease has gone to a non-keep regulation. Overfishing, habitat have decreased the numbers but in 2024 and 2025 the state is increasing stockings. David Gilmore, the lead guitarist of Pink Floyd, has sold his guitars for charity. Alex Van Halen has sold tons of drums and sticks for charity Concert for the Carolinas and Helene Recovery was a huge part of the fall Boy Scouts have changed to Scouting America Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Ratterree dodges the question regarding the Clemson University’s success against Texas University in the College Football Playoff by answering that it is “Guaranteed that one of the teams will win.” The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 3, December 21st, 2024 One of the busiest people in the world of conservation & in attractions is John Searby. He is the Executive Director of both the Catawba Riverkeeper and Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (DSBG). Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is located in Belmont, NC. Searby shares the uniqueness of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden along with the vision and foresight of its benefactor, Dan Stowe. Segment Highlights: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden has over 100,000 visitors each year Hiking Trails, Gardens, & Event Hosting are all available at DSBG. Visitors from across the globe visit the Gardens but it is most used by people throughout the Southeast. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Searby’s leadership has garnered attention and awards from many including the North Carolina Travel Industry Association. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Good footwear is imperative for a visit to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden or any pursuit that you may take.

Segment 4, December 21st, 2024 The Laurel Forks Trail is closing for the next eighteen months started on January 6, 2025. Over 300,000 hikers use the trail every year in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. The closure is to rehabilitate and restore the trail, parking, and viewing platforms.the traild for eighteen months. . Segment Highlights: 300,000+ hikers utilize the trail It is located in GSMNP The trail will be closed for eighteen months Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Viewing platforms for the Laurel Falls, the parking area, and visitor flows will all be new and improved when the trail reopens in 2026. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Good footwear is imperative for a great hike no matter the trail.

December 14, 2024 A recent fire near the Crowders Mountain State Park remind Bill and about the famed Smoky Bear ad campaign. Segment Highlights: Smoky Bear was started as a PSA to educate about unplanned wildfires The first campaign began 80 years ago in 1944. The real cub rescued from a fire resided in the Washington, DC Zoo had to receive its own zip code due to the amount of fan mail. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: 8 in 10 people recognize the Smoky Bear character and campaign. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte hiking store, Jesse Brown’s. Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a water bottle, and get outdoors.

Segment 3, December 14th, 2024 Talking to people that are making outdoor things happen is one of the missions of the Carolina Outdoors. This segment features someone that has found the attributes of the outside to make himself and others better. Scott Wurtzbacher is a realtor, podcaster, traveler, adventurer, & now an author. He had a chance to speak with host Bill Bartee about his pursuits. Show Highlights: Wurtzbacher began the Inspire Campfire podcast by talking to adventurers and travelers He speaks about harnessing travel and adventure into introspection and escape versus being stressed by it. Everyone has different motivations for seeking adventure Scott is preparing a 2025 trip for interested parties to Everest He leads a meditation time virtually on Friday mornings during the month of December Scott has an upcoming book being release on his adventures and conversations Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Challenge Skills ratio is something where the challenge should be slightly above our skill to create the growth desired by adventure. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Stop by and check out the winter jackets, too.

Segment 3, December 7th, 2024 Talia Freeman joined the Carolina Outdoors to talk about Beech Mountain. The Resort had some roadways washed out and communication trouble in the aftermath of the storm Helene. However, these problems were quickly rectified and Beech Mountain Resort is already open for a successful winter. Show Highlights: Beech is bustling with visitors The winter has started well and a strong base of snow exists The hours at Beech on Fri-Sun, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. & Mon-Thur, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Freeman is an adjunct professor at Lees McRae College. She teaches classes on consumer behavior and skiing/snowboarding. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s. Stop by and check out the winter jackets, too.

Segment 2, November 30th, 2024 Superintendent Glen George & his team oversee the property of Crowders Mountain State Park. He’s been the leader since 2017 after serving at other parks in the NC State Park system including Chimney Rock State Park that was damaged by the storm, Helene. George recently spoke to host of the Carolina Outdoors, Bill Bartee, about the responsibilities & challenges at Crowders Mountain State Park. Show Highlights: George shared his staff with other areas in western NC during the Helene recovery. Damage from the storm will last years at Crowders due to Helene. Multiple fallen trees and limbs were lost Crowders is a hiking destination with 22 miles of trails & close to Mecklenburg, York, Cherokee counties, & more. The Park has two peaks: Crowders and Pinnacle These give great views of the area surrounding Crowders. The Ridgeline Trail ties two parks in two states together with a federal military park (Crowders (NC), Kings Mountain (SC), & Kings Mountain National Military Park. Crowders is only closed one day: Christmas Day Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Crowders is a mecca for climbers in the area. Climbers are required to register so that park management knows who is there for safety & security. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the hiking boot department at Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 3, November 30th, 2024 The SouthPark Municipal District was created by the City of Charlotte in 2022. The goal was to help manage & maintain the successful shopping, business, restaurant, residential, & entertainment district within the city. This is also the home of Carolina Outdoor sponsor, Jesse Brown’s. Host Bill Bartee recently spoke with President/CEO Adam Rhew of SouthPark Community Partners about the area, the changes, & transportation, trails, & green space in the area. Show Highlights: SouthPark is important to the regional economy & a beautiful place to live. SouthPark began in 1970 with the building of the Southpark Mall. It is now owned by Simon Properties. The Loop is a 3-mile walking and biking path to help connect the area together, including being able to connect to Greenways outside of the SouthPark District. The area began as a rural area, became suburban, & is now urbanizing. Management is important to help keep the great qualities of this area intact. The Free Ride App is available here: the Southpark Skipper Symphony Park is the largest green space in the district. It hosts SouthPark after Five, Pops in the Park, & several other entertainment opportunities to be together as a community. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: SouthPark is one of the largest business & shopping districts between Washington, DC & Atlanta, GA, making it an important destination for tens of thousands. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte fly shop, Jesse Brown’s. Get a 7 weight fly rod & take on a smallmouth bass in 2025 instead of that 3-weight rod for trout.

Segment 2, November 16th, 2024 When we last spoke with our next guest, we had a sneak preview of a proposed restoration project involving NC’s most prolific cold water fish hatchery, the Bobby N. Setzer Hatchery in Pisgah forest. Of course Helene’s devastation brought unimaginable devastation to property, lives, & communities across parts of WNC. It also has caused a possible change of plans to recreational fishing in the mountains. Jake Rash is the Coldwater Research Coordinator for the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, where he helps with the coordination of research and management of NC’s trout resources. He recently spoke with Carolina Outdoor host, Bill Bartee, about the trout waters on North Carolina in 2024. Show Highlights: The Armstrong Fish Hatchery near Marion had the most damage during the Helene storm There is a revised trout stocking occurring for the rest of 2024. The NC Wildlife Resource Commission is developing plans on how to properly move forward. The western region of North Carolina & its economy count on trout fishing and it was important to safely stock the streams for people. The Trout Page is the best resource to learn plans as they are announced and developed. Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture approved Jacob “Jake” Rash as its new Chairman in 2022. He says that he’s anxious to find how the Brookies handle the storm in certain parts of the state. They can handle lots of water but the landslides are another story. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Jake Rash will be on-hand in Charlotte on Thursday, November 21st, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. as a part of the open Rocky River Trout Unlimited meeting at Jesse Brown’s. Everyone is invited to come out and meet Jake and learn more about the cold water trout resources. Trout Page: www.ncwildlife.org/trout The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte fly shop, Jesse Brown’s. Get a 7 weight fly rod & take on a smallmouth bass in 2025 instead of that 3-weight rod for trout.

November 16th, 2024 One of my charges here on the Carolina Outdoors is introducing you, the listener, to gems along the way. Especially those gems that are right here under our noses. Timothy DeLisle, Director of Software Engineering of the Pisgah Astronomy Research Institute (PARI) joined host Bill Bartee to talk about this “one-of-a-kind” place located in Rosman, NC, whose mission is to make science education & exploration easily accessible. Segment Highlights: A 200-acre campus that first began in the early 1960s with NASA. It then went under the Department of Defense before being obtained by Don Cline as a research, science, & education place for all. Archive over time of astronomer’s studies are included for researcher’s to understand physicists and scientist’s questions. There are all types of telescopes on the property & utilized by people from all over the world The history of the property includes communication site for space missions, satellites, and keeping up with Cold War adversaries in the 60s and 70s. PARI now includes special events during astronomical special occurrences & events. PARI is unique in that not only young school age groups but also serious research happens with educators, scientists, & researchers Check the Website to make sure that a program is available before you visit. Self-guided Tours are available too. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: The Leonid meteor shower & high solar activity is happening right now. It may be worth finding a dark place and looking up in the night sky. You can learn more about it and things happening in our night sky with PARI. Don Cline founded & operates PARI to boost access to science education in North Carolina. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte hiking store, Jesse Brown’s. Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a water bottle, and get outdoors.

November 16th, 2024 Segment length: 2:30 There are tons of things happening in the Charlotte-area this weekend. Segment Highlights: Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is taking place. Check out the map and prepare for your journey on Saturday. Upcoming at the fly shop in Charlotte, Jesse Brown’s. Brian Hester, author of She Talks to Fish and NC Wildlife Resource Commission biologist Jake Rash, will both be on hand during an open to the public Rocky River Trout Unlimited meeting on Thursday, November 21st, 2024. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Hester and Rash will both be speaking on Thursday, November 21st, 2024, 5 p.m. at the local outdoor outfitter, Jesse Brown’s. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte hiking store, Jesse Brown’s. Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a water bottle, and get outdoors.

Who’s been to the top of Africa the most? In the Charlotte-area it is Macon Dunnagan. He started climbing the mountain twenty-two years ago & has done it fifty times. He’s an author, adventurer, & through his climbs he’s been recognized by a North Carolina governor & is currently an ambassador of travel for Tanzania. Show Highlights: He’s been climbing Kilimanjaro long enough to have retired porters that are younger than him. He’s taken ages twelve to eighty to the top & continues travelling to talks about Africa East Africa is one of the best places to travel in the world. Easy, safe, & wonderful People travel to Kilimanjaro for the culture, the exercise, & for conquering the goal of the summit. Porters carry most of the items to the top as you hike & have a Porter’s Society Going slowly is part of a successful acclimation Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Dunnagan is speaking to interested Kilimanjaro climbers at Jesse Brown’s on Thursday, November 14th, 2024, 6 p.m. at the local outdoor outfitter, Jesse Brown’s. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte hiking store, Jesse Brown’s. Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a water bottle, and train for Kilimanjaro.

Segment 3, November 9th, 2024 How are so many of the places that we enjoy going to maintained? Usually it is active advocacy groups that help care, manicure, & keep clean properties that are impactful to our community. It’s kind of like being a friend. Dewey Matherly has chaired the Friends of Crowders Mountain group for the past eleven years. He took a moment to join host Bill Bartee to share more about the purpose & accomplishments of the Friends group. Show Highlights: Friends of Crowders Mountain is a group that helps support the State Park through donations of time, money, & grant writing It’s made up of volunteers & one of the top attended activiites is trail maintenance One goal is to help visitors have the best overall experience during their time at Crowders Mountain Crowders Mountain State Park is now open & there is an upcoming Trail Maintenance Work Day on November 21st, 2024. Crowders Mountain State Park invites a wide-variety of activities from camping, canoeing, hiking, climbing, bouldering, & more that utilize the property Members are people that appreciate the opportunity to help support a place that they love to visit & care for. They come from all over the region. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: There are sixty-nine state parks and areas throughout North Carolina. Each has their own “Friends” group that helps manage, support, & create awareness of their respective property. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte hiking store, Jesse Brown’s. Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a water bottle, and head to Crowders Mountain State Park.

Segment 1, October 26th, 2024 Producer TJ Boggs recently western North Carolina (Hendersonville, NC) to spend some money. Charlotte’s local outfitter store is the sponsor of the Carolina Outdoors Segment Highlights: Western North Carolina continues to reel from the after effects of Helene & now the economic disaster with the missing tourism. Review of the towns that are asking for visitors & those that aren’t. There is a chance of a secondary financial disaster from the after affects of Helene. Western North Carolina does 1/5 of North Carolina’s Tourism & Hospitality trade each year. Since the storm & requests that people not visit, many communities that weren’t affected by the storm are not getting tourists. Show Highlights: Tourism is a vital economic driver in western North Carolina, especially in the fall. The region’s beautiful landscapes, vibrant autumn foliage, and temperate climate make it a top destination for tourists, which has a significant economic impact in several ways: Visitor Spending: Fall foliage draws millions to areas like Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Great Smoky Mountains, boosting spending on lodging, dining, and shopping. This influx of visitors generates millions in revenue, supporting local businesses and driving the hospitality sector. Job Creation: Tourism in the fall sustains jobs across multiple industries in western North Carolina. Seasonal increases in visitors create demand for part-time and full-time employment in restaurants, hotels, retail stores, and outdoor recreation businesses, directly benefiting the local workforce. Agritourism and Local Products: Fall tourism also promotes agritourism, with people visiting apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals. This helps farmers and artisans sell products directly to consumers, adding an important revenue stream for small, local businesses. Tax Revenue: The state and local governments benefit from taxes on tourism-related activities, such as hotel occupancy taxes and sales taxes. This revenue can be reinvested into community services, infrastructure, and maintenance of natural attractions, making tourism a sustainable asset. Given the seasonal economic boost that autumn tourism provides, it’s a cornerstone of western North Carolina’s economic landscape. Noted in Prior Segments: North Carolina State Parks Closures due to Helene All State Parks west of I-77. This includes Crowders Mountain State Park, Lake Norman State Park, South Mountain S.P., & others. Pisgah National Forest-Ranger District is now openNational Park Service – Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Service – Great Smoky Mountains National Park U.S. Department of Agriculture – National Forests, Pisgah National Park, Ranger District opened on October 18th, 2024 Safety and Emergency Information ReadyNC.gov DriveNC.gov (road closures) NC Emergency Management: Facebook | Instagram NCWRC: Potential for increased human-bear conflicts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene NCFS: Following Hurricane Helene, NC Forest Service urging the public to be careful and responsible with outdoor fire Please Support small businesses whenever you can. This helps weather the fiscal impact of the storm and its after-affect. State Parks west of I-77 Things You’ll Learn by Listening: The Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter in Charlotte. Mens outdoor pants are popular during this season for protection, fit, & style. Stop by the online site for Men’s pants at Jesse Brown’s, Duckhead, Mountain Khakis, & Kuhl are all on-hand. Plus, fly fishing guided trips that originate at Jesse Brown’s, the fly shop of Charlotte, are ongoing. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte fly shop, Jesse Brown’s

Segment 2, October 26th, 2024 Tree Climbing Stories inspired by seeing the tree canopy from a different perspective. Producer TJ Boggs & Host Bill Bartee share stories about flying drones and climbing trees. TJ promised to help get a friends drone out of a tree that revived Bill’s memory of attempting to to retrieve his son’s drone when he was eleven years old. . Charlotte’s local outfitter store is the sponsor of the Carolina Outdoors Segment Highlights: Drone recovery happened three years later for Bill due to tree climbing fail TJ’s plan is utilizing another drone to retrieve the lost drone NC State Parks are still closed west of I-77. Reportedly much of the continued closure for parks is due to resources being sent to help the harshest damaged parks. Pisgah National Forest-Ranger District is now open. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Always be safe climbing a tree. Especially if you’re an adult The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte fly shop, Jesse Brown’s

Segment 3, October 26th, 2024 We try to prepare for the seasons appropriately on the Carolina Outdoors & one of those seasons is already in affect across both Carolinas. It’s deer season in the Carolinas. Ridr Knowlton has recently been featured in a recent Gray’s Sporting Journal magazine, he’s the co-host of the adventure travel podcast Untamed Pursuits, & the author of The Guides – A Collection of Untamed Stories as well as a Storyteller alum at the sponsor, Jesse Brown’s, Charlotte’s local outfitter store. Show Highlights: Preparation for the season. Scouting the land, trail cams, & getting your gear ready Scent-free clothing helps mask “human scent” when your in the woods. Visual, Noise, & Odor are important to manage. Set-up for where to hunt is important & tree-stand & harness safety are important Hunter & Gun Safety are the most important part of a hunter Deer season in both Carolinas mean 3 different things. Archery—that’s right bow and arrow Muzzleloader or Blackpowder season, which are antique guns, and then rifle season which opens in NC’s east in mid October & central and west in mid-November. Here are the Regulations for Deer Season 2024 in SC. The three mean three sets of skills and demands for hunters. Technology helps but the hunter still has to make the shot Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Hunting out west is wide-open and stands are not as prevalent as the ever-popular southeast. This is due to the density of growth that the hunter is hunting. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the Charlotte fly shop, Jesse Brown’s

Review of the towns that are asking for visitors & those that aren’t. There is a chance of a secondary financial disaster from the after affects of Helene. Western North Carolina does 1/5 of North Carolina’s Tourism & Hospitality trade each year. Since the storm & requests that people not visit, many communities that weren’t affected by the storm are not getting tourists. Show Highlights: Cities that are Welcoming Visitors in WNC: Brevard Hendersonville Tryon Saluda Boone Blowing Rock Cullowhee Sylva Bryson City Maggie Valley Waynesville Weaverville Highlands Sapphire Cashiers Cherokee Dillsboro Fontana Robbinsville Nantahala Scaly Mountain Franklin Murphy Andrews Hayesville Cities that are Not Welcoming Visits Right Now in WNC: Swannanoa Asheville Black Mountain Old Fort Chimney Rock Lake Lure Bat Cave Marshall Hot Springs Burnsville Spruce Pine Noted in Prior Segments: North Carolina State Parks Closures due to Helene All State Parks west of I-77. This includes Crowders Mountain State Park, Lake Norman State Park, South Mountain S.P., & others.   National Park Service – Blue Ridge Parkway   National Park Service – Great Smoky Mountains National Park U.S. Department of Agriculture – National Forests, Pisgah National Park, Ranger District opened on October 18th, 2024 Safety and Emergency Information ReadyNC.gov DriveNC.gov (road closures) NC Emergency Management: Facebook | Instagram NCWRC: Potential for increased human-bear conflicts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene NCFS: Following Hurricane Helene, NC Forest Service urging the public to be careful and responsible with outdoor fire Please Support small businesses whenever you can. This helps weather the fiscal impact of the storm and its after-affect. State Parks west of I-77 Things You’ll Learn by Listening: The Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter in Charlotte. Mens outdoor pants are popular during this season for protection, fit, & style. Stop by the online site for Men’s pants at Jesse Brown’s, Duckhead, Mountain Khakis, & Kuhl are all on-hand. Plus, fly fishing guided trips that originate at Jesse Brown’s, the fly shop of Charlotte, are ongoing.

The county seat of Cleveland county, Shelby, is hosting the North Carolina LIvermush Festival, & Emily Epley from Visit Cleveland County joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk about it. Show Highlights: Livermush is made with pork products, cornmeal, & seasonings that utilize all the parts of a pig. It is a cousin of scrapple that is mainly popular in Pennsylvania & Ohio Shelby & Cleveland County had affects from Helene & are excited to carry-on the festival to support hospitality & tourism in the area. Mush, Music, & Mutts is the motto of the NC Livermush Festival. Music, pets, & Livermush will be celebrated. Pets are allowed and should be leashed & well-behaved Johnny versus Jason are having a livermush cook-off Michael Ellis defends his record, 2 lbs, 1.3 oz, as a 6-time champion of the Livermush Eating Contest Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Check out the other things to do in Shelby, NC. Earl Scruggs Center, Don Gibson Theater, & more are located in this Cleveland County town. The NC Livermush Festival is Saturday, October 19th, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter in Charlotte. Mens outdoor pants are popular during this season for protection, fit, & style. Stop by the online site for Men’s pants at Jesse Brown’s, Duckhead, Mountain Khakis, & Kuhl are all on-hand. Plus, fly fishing guided trips that originate at Jesse Brown’s, the fly shop of Charlotte, are ongoing.

Segment 3, October 19th, 2024 The Carolina Outdoors is celebrating the harvest with the 2024 NC State Fair. Host Bill Bartee speaks with Heather Overton with NC State Fair Show Highlights: Western NC is well represented in this year’s fair. They bring a strong contingent of apples, pumpkins, livestock, & crafts The Flower and Garden Show includes a Mum Tree that is a great place for a photo The Giant Pumpkin Exhibit is getting a lot of attention as the Fair starts There are 70 new foods including in this year’s Fair. BBQ, Chicken, Desserts & Bacon-Wrapped & Cheese on a Stick are celebrated each year. Overton says bring friends & family & share food. It allows you to try a larger variety. The campground on the Fairgrounds are closed during the Fair but open and popular when the Fair is closed A miniature horse-pull is “something to watch” on October 26th. No ticket needed to the Horse Complex. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Horse Shows are held everyday during the Fair in the Hunt Horse Complex. Remember to get your hands stamped so you can re-enter. A Day to Donate Food for people in Western North Carolina on Thursday, October 24th, 2024. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter in Charlotte. Mens outdoor pants are popular during this season for protection, fit, & style. Stop by the online site for Men’s pants at Jesse Brown’s, Duckhead, Mountain Khakis, & Kuhl are all on-hand. Plus, fly fishing guided trips that originate at Jesse Brown’s, the fly shop of Charlotte, are ongoing.

Segment 3, October 12th, 2024 We’ve heard the stories of disaster in regards to Helene. We’ve also heard about recovery & communities coming together to aid. Sara Bell founded Green River Adventures in 2006 & later added The Gorge Zipline to the portfolio of adventure & recreation in Saluda, NC. This community in Polk County, NC, was impacted by the rising water of the Green River & felled trees throughout. Sara took time out of the recovery efforts, tree & debris covered roadways to speak with host Bill Bartee about the storm, the recovery, & the future of small business in Polk County. Sara Bell Show Highlights: The Green River Gorge is located south of Asheville, NC & north of Greenville, SC Its 18,000 acres of state game land along with a mix of private property & the Upper Green (Class III Whitewater), The Narrows (Class V Whitewater), and the Lower Green (Class I & less) makes up the river. A series of landslides collected the extreme amount of water, then swept it away blowing out the river, & sweeping homes, property, & more down the river Each day brings new hope from the initial despair. The Green River Adventures Outpost has acted as a community collection & recovery area NCDOT is working towards improving the roads which will allow for small business to recover Recovery now includes most power is restoration & rebuilding Polk County Community Foundation has four different funds with different areas to distribute: Immediate aid, Rebuilding/Construction, Green River Restoration, & the Pacolet Valley Restoration. Surprisingly The Gorge Zipline area didn’t take big hit physically. If transportation & roadways are improved they may be open this fall (2024). This is important for the support & success of a small business. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Gifts are totally tax free & go completely to the recovery and support efforts. Bell is encouraged and optimistic regarding the opening of The Gorge Zipline this fall. Its success impacts the local community greatly. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter in Charlotte. Many of the fly fishing guided trips that originate at Jesse Brown’s utilize the lower section of the Green River (NC) as a destination. Jesse Brown’s is also the home to great brands items such as: Tundra 45 YETI, Turtlebox Speakers, & a pair of Duckhead pants from the Charlotte fly shop Jesse Brown’s. Noted in Prior Segments: North Carolina State Parks Closures due to Helene State Parks west of I-77 National Park Service – Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Service – Great Smoky Mountains National Park U.S. Department of Agriculture – National Forests Safety and Emergency Information ReadyNC.gov DriveNC.gov (road closures) NC Emergency Management: Facebook | Instagram NCWRC: Potential for increased human-bear conflicts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene NCFS: Following Hurricane Helene, NC Forest Service urging the public to be careful and responsible with outdoor fire Please Support small businesses whenever you can. This helps weather the fiscal impact of the storm and its after-affect.

Segment 2, October 5th, 2024 The devastation of Helene has been documented over the past week. The after affects continue along with the good news of communities coming together to help. Adam Suggs has joined us on the program to talk about mountain adventures, back to school and back to college moments. But in the past week he was in Boone, NC, as the rain begins to fall. We’ll find out about his journey from the start of school to being sent home and what he thinks the future will bring. Show Notes: Thoughts that went through his mind during the storm Eyewitness from campus to beyond & the things seen School at Appalachian State University is out until October 15th, 2024, however many facilities are open to serve the community WASU, the App. State Radio station has been serving information to those in the area. Red Cross Club at ASU is a part of the solution @RedCross_AppState on Instagram or call 980-256-0950 for more information Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Our thoughts are all on all the communities affected by Helene. The ones “on the hills & in the hollers” that were swept away & those left without power, roads, & homes. The question of “who is my neighbor?” is being answered with the resilience of community support throughout. You can participate with aid: Samaritans Purse Salvation Army Water to Wine Emergency Relief & More Listed Here Fly Fishing Guiding, Instruction, & Outfitting trips in western North Carolina is a large part of Jesse Brown’s business. Teaching people to fly fish the beautiful waters in this part of the world is special to us. In order to support our local guides & relief efforts in these hardest hit places, we plan on donating 5% of the Fly Fishing Trips Purchased Now through the rest of the 2024 year to Mountain True This will enable us to continue planning for fly fishing in the future while helping with the impacted areas & people now. Photo Courtesy: Sara Bell, Green River Adventures

Segment 2, October 5th, 2024 Growing up in New York! Going to college in Boston! Taking on a Thru Hike in 1991! James Smith has quite a resume of outdoor accomplishment & adventure in his career. However, what led him to lead one of the hottest new businesses in the Charlotte-region.James Smith started MYOUTDOORJOY a year & ½ ago & it has enjoyed a large amount of growth in helping people be outdoors, learn, & enjoy travel and adventure via membership. Show Notes: Smith is a self-described outdoor geek that has taught people for decades as a passion People aren’t exposed to the outdoors due to changing cultural, situational, & generational circumstances. Those under forty-five are not exposed to the outdoors & youth today play video games & don’t evolve those skills Women are signing up with the company at the highest number due to a newfound declaration of independence Pursuit of recreational knowledge also brings forth real-world skills of survival Knowledge prevents bad experiences in the outdoors Smith touts MYOUTDOORJOY’s experience, certification & reputation End of September is archery season in Wyoming, followed by rifle in the early days of October. These seasons include white tail, mule deer, and elk. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: MYOUTDOORJOY was named because of the recognizing the spread of Smith’s happiness & joy being spread to subscribers and members in learning and experiences outdoors. The goal of building a bridge across to all sorts of people is part of the company.

Segment 3, September 28th, 2024 David Gaskins always brings great information on the big game hunts from the west. His nickname, First Day Dave, came from prior seasons where he & clients have gotten the deer that they wanted on the “first day” with 7-Jay Outfitters in Sundance, Wyoming. Over the years Gaskin has given us pointers. An emergency situation was added to the list Get physically prepared before a hunt. Walk and improve your aerobic exercises before heading out west were altitude and exertion are a part of the hunt Wear layers. This year the early part of the season was hot. However, Gaskins let us know that there were also 6″ of snow a few ridgelines over. Layers enable you to prepare for what the situation brings. IMPORTANT: Listen to what your body tells you. Gaskins hadn’t felt well and ended up having heart attack, four stints in surgery, & back to the hunt. The sponsor of the Carolina Outdoors, Jesse Brown’s, has several client mounts from western trips across the wall in the brick & mortar store. End of September is archery season in Wyoming, followed by rifle in the early days of October. These seasons include white tail, mule deer, and elk. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) is a viral disease spread by flies, midges, and no-see-ums. It is common in late summer/early fall & ends once a frost occurs. It can be fatal to the animal in some cases. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter in Charlotte. Home of great like Tundra 45 YETI, Turtlebox Speakers, & a pair of Duckhead pants from the Charlotte fly shop & hiking store, Jesse Brown’s.