Highlights of the Carolina Outdoors

Segment 1, January 20th, 2024 The Carolina Outdoors starts up with a history & success of Snowboarding & finishes with a Nourish Up & feeding the community. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the local, independent fly shop, Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 2, January 20th, 2024 It’s winter time in the Carolinas and that continues our conversations about some of the sports of winter. Previous segments have had us visiting with some of the North Carolina Resorts (listen to the podcast) where skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing are all taking place but we wanted to delve a little bit into the history and growth of one of those sports. Chris Hardin, a former professional snowboarder & current manufacturer’s representative with Southeast Territory Sales recently joined Bill Bartee, host of the Carolina Outdoors to speak about the history, growth, & success of snowboarding. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Snowboarding began with the invention of the “Snurfer” in 1965. Between ’65-’75 over a million were sold for $15 each Burton Snowboards began in the late 1970s with Jake Burton Carpenter working to improve his Snurfer Televised X-Games & personalities helped grow the sport in the mid-1990s. This attracted teens at the time, like our guest Hardin became a professional at age 19 & competed all over the country Many snowboarders ski but many of the people that identify as skiers don’t snowboard One of the last resorts that allowed snowboarding in North Carolina was Appalachian Ski Mountain that is now Hardin’s home mountain The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the local, independent fly shop, Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 3, January 20th, 2024 Talking about food on an outdoor show can be fun. We’ve covered camping food, state fair food, and the traditions & symbolism of food during certain times of the year like Thanksgiving & New Year’s. On this segment Tina Postel, CEO of Nourish Up recently joined Bill Bartee, host of the Carolina Outdoors to speak about the food & nourishment needs in the Charlotte community. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: The history of Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays from the mid-1970s to Nourish Up in 2024 Nourish Up is Meals on Wheels for the Charlotte community & Second Harvest Food Bank is a partner of Nourish Up What is food insecurity & who are people that utilize the services of Nourish Up A referral from someone is needed to qualify (medical, school, church, or government organizations all send referrals to Nourish Up) Thousands of Scouts from Mecklenburg County Council BSA will be canvasing neighborhoods in Mecklenburg with door hangars requesting on January 27th, 2024. The food and other pick-up takes place on February 3rd, 2024. Since 2010, MCC Scouts have collected close to 3.5 million pounds of food. Over 238,000 people were served in Mecklenburg County last year by the newly named Nourish Up The goal is to not do hand outs but hand ups & with community partners, donors, volunteers, and team members, the goal is to end food insecurity and create a brighter future for all. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by the local, independent fly shop, Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 4, January 20th, 2024 Always learning here on the Carolina Outdoors Program & Podcast. The 18th edition of the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is coming to Charlotte on March 21st, 2024. All Travelers, anglers, & fans of independent film are welcome to purchase a ticket while supplies last. Live music begins at 5 p.m. with the films starting at 7 p.m. Members of the fly fishing and conservation community will be on-hand for you to meet & learn about the sport of a lifetime, fly fishing The Carolina Outdoors is powered by Charlotte’s local outdoor store -Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 1, January 13th, 2024 Opening Segment of this week’s program. Listen in as host, Bill Bartee, speaks about how to handle high water and crossing streams. Later in the show, Bartee, catches up with Talia Freeman from Beech Mountain Resort to learn what’s happening on the mountain this winter. The Carolina Outdoors is powered by Jesse Brown’s, Charlotte’s original outdoor store.

Segment 2, January 13th, 2024 Of course with the recent rains that we’ve gotten over the past weeks it has brought cause for those of us travelling in water. Of course, recognizing how we’re travelling in our car is one thing but what about those folks that are in the back country? Your host, Bill Bartee, on this edition of the Carolina Outdoors, shares how to be educated & careful about crossing a stream or river when out on a hike or fishing trip. Now it may seem silly to many of us. Why would anyone be out in this weather? But it happens. Plus, high water can happen in the mountains on a blue bird day when a storm is occurring in a place that we can’t even see. This makes it an always important topic on the Carolina Outdoors. So we’re going to look at it from a Southeastern perspective. We won’t necessarily talk about ice bridges and glacial run off as much as they would in the Rockies. But all the things that we do talk about will be universal. We’ll also talk about these river and stream crossings from a backpacking, hiking, & fishing perspective. These category of activities many times bring us these decisions & how to tackle the objectives. These answers are all general and one should go with their best decision dependent on their comfort level, expertise, and confidence in their abilities. When you come to a challenging water crossing on a trail…look for other options. You can go upstream and downstream looking for a better choice that the trail crossing. Things to note on making this decision. How fast is the current? Picking slower (but maybe deeper) water is many times better than a shorter cross in dangerously fast water. What is downstream? If there are objects like felled trees, potential undercurrent ledges & boulders then you should cross below those objects. They can act as entrapments that hold you down and can be dangerous. Logs and trees with branches underwater are called strainers and they are dangerous. If it is a sizable crossing look for islands or rest places that you can get to before continuing across If you find a log then judge its security, its branches, is it rotten or dilapidated, & your potential to fall from it. Make a good decision regarding the crossing. Judge your skill, your team, your strength, & the weather, environment, & results from getting wet. If you have to make another choice (leaving the trail, setting up camp, or backtracking) decide what those results may be before crossing. Once you decide: Choose a place across the stream to work towards. Wade at an upstream angle Hikers: when you’re crossing: Keep your boots on, they help with protection and support in the current and travelling over rocks and gravel. Loosen the straps on your pack. Work at an upstream angle. It helps keep you from being pushed backwards. Utilize a hiking pole, wading staff, or stick so that you have three points of contact. Keep your stick or wading staff upstream (but this changes if you’re crossing with another person or group) If a fall is eminate then throw your pack towards your destination Anglers that may not have a wading staff. You can get a stick or put your rod in your downstream hand and point it downstream. It is surprising how it can help you maintain balance during a crossing Don’t move your foot until the other foot is firmly planted If you hit a bottom that is soft mud or suction oriented then back up and make another choice. It’s not worth getting stuck in mud like that. If you do get into a suction situation then bend your knee, lift your heel and raise your foot to help break the suction. Anglers that may be crossing together: Link arms, The stronger person or better balanced should be the upstream crosser with the other downstream (don’t have an argument streamside about who is stronger). The upstream person should manage the rods and the downstream person manage the wade staff in their downstream arm. Make sure that you don’t have any gear that may get stuck together. If one person falls then the other will too. Recognize that water is always fastest at the surface & slower underneath. Shuffle those feet to keep contact with the bottom, slower water area. If you fall, Keep your head upstream, don’t try to remove your waders, keep your feet and legs high so that they don’t become entrapped underwater. Remember having those back pack straps loosened. Keep you pack on until it becomes a hindrance (or when you fall). Throw it as far towards your destination goal. (you don’t want your pack to kill you but you also have to remember the situation without potentially having your gear: bag, tent, clothes If you fall in your waders don’t panic. They won’t weigh you down.

Segment 3, January 13th, 2024 Beech Mountain Resort in Beech Mountain, NC, is the highest altitude ski resort on the East Coast. Talia Freeman returns to the Carolina Outdoors to talk about the season, investments in equipment, & snow tubing on this edition of the Carolina Outdoors. During the conversation you’ll learn about the Village at the base of the mountain that hosts lodging, food, music, and more. Add a terrain park, ice skating, equipment & apparel rental & Beech Mountain Resort becomes a one stop shop for a winter outdoor enthusiast. Plus, if you need cold weather clothes for a trip to the mountains, remember the Carolina Outdoors is powered by local outdoor outfitter, Jesse Brown’s.  

Segment 4, January 13th, 2024 Tune in for any missed segments via Highlights of the Carolina Outdoors & you’re always invited to the outdoor store of Charlotte, Jesse Brown’s. You’re always invited to visit the store in-person or online.

Segment 1, January 6th, 2023 This week Carolina Outdoors host Bill Bartee dives into conversations surrounding fly-tying skills and events along with discussing some of the most affordable mountain towns in the USA! Powered by local outdoor store & fly shop in Charlotte, Jesse Brown’s: host Bill Bartee invites you to a replay of a visit with Elijah Saint Blancard of Jesse Brown’s Outdoors & Appalachian State University student Adam Suggs. It’s that time of year again, The Fly-Fishing Film Tour is back! The 18th annual celebration will be over in the Visualtie Theater on March 21st, 2023. Be sure to mark your calendars and stay tuned for more information.

Segment 2, January 6th, 2023 It doesn’t get much better than the mountains! On this segment of the Carolina Outdoors show, host Bill Bartee dives into conversation inspired by a The Future of the Mountain Town article written by Heather Hansman of Outside Online. With towns listed such as Legrand, Oregon, Reno, Nevada, and Saranac, New York Hansman discusses the affordability and appreciation for the outdoors that numerous towns across the United States hold. However, one town listed happens to be in our very own beloved state of North Carolina! A frequent conversation topic on the Carolina Outdoors show, Boone, NC makes the list. With a population of 18,000 people and an average home price of $446,000, Boone is home to many outdoor lovers (and students)! With the New River, Watauga River, and 3 ski resorts in the area, Boone has something for everyone and for every season. Appalachian State University student, and Charlotte native, Adam Suggs, joins the Carolina Outdoors conversation to talk all things Boone, NC. Growing up a boy-scout, Suggs’ love for the outdoors has only grown since residing in Boone. He shares how the students cherish and love the mountain environment just as much as the local residents. Whether its snowboarding, fly-fishing, hiking, white water rafting, skiing, or camping it is hard to be bored to in the beautiful town. Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s is the place to get outfitted for your next mountain town adventure! Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Adam Suggs all about Boone, NC and the opportunities for outdoor lovers that are offered! Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Boone, NC resides in the NC highlands and is home to 18,000 Population booms during the academic school year with students at Appalachian State University With the New River, Watauga River, ski resorts in the area, state parks, campgrounds, hiking trails, etc. there is something for everybody!

Segment 3, January 6th, 2023 It’s fly-fishing season, folks! In the fly-fishing world, the sport is divided into 3 skill categories: casting, fishing, and fly-tying. Jesse Brown’s Outdoors’ very own head fly-fishing instructor and guide Elijah Saint Blancard joins the Carolina Outdoors show to talk all about that third pillar, fly-tying. Elijah delves into the environment out on the NC waters this season. Less crowded rivers and lower water levels sure have made for interesting and enjoyable trips. Fly-tying is a true art form that allows us to exercise our creative sides! Tying flies can be compared to that of a chef baking in the kitchen. With different recipes for different flies, materials like beads, eyes, foam, thread, rubber legs, flash, and tinsel are all crucial materials to best imitating nature. Tiers utilize both natural fibers and synthetic material to get the desired effect. Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s, is not only home to an abundance of fly-tying material, but also home to expert advice and instruction! Check out jessebrowns.com to visit our blog page that discusses deeper topics on all things fly fishing. With a brand-new fly-tying club, the Charlotte Vise, in the works, Jesse Brown’s is offering instructional clinics lead by Elijah himself! The goal is to provide instructional introductory information by teaching easy, fishable patters while keeping things simple and fun. The next available clinic is January 31st, 2023, from 6pm-8pm. They are filling up fast so visit Jesse Brown’s website, send an email, or make a phone call to reserve your spot. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Elijah Saint Blancard about this fly-fishing season and delve into the “addictive” world of the art of fly tying! Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Casting, fishing, and fly tying make up the sport of fly-fishing Fly tying uses a variety of tools, materials, and hooks to imitate nature Vise, scissors, bodkin, bobbin, whip finisher are required tools Similar to cooking in the kitchen, fly tiers follow recipes for imitating certain species The difference in using natural fibers vs. synthetic materials Next available Jesse Brown’s fly tying clinic is January 31st, 2023 6pm-8pm Details about flies such as the Wooly Bugger and Pats Rubber Leg

Segment 4, January 6th, 2024 Wrap up! Seven Most Affordable Mountain Towns in the US, broadcast student, Adam Suggs, & head fly fishing guide & lead instructor, Elijah Saint Blancard, talks fly tying. The Carolina Outdoor program is powered by the local fly shop & Charlotte’s outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s. Outfitting for a hike, trip, or fly rod since 1970.

Segment 1, December 30th, 2023 All aboard and welcome to the final Carolina Outdoors episode of 2023! This week Carolina Outdoors host Bill Bartee dives into conversations all about the popular winter activities of skiing, snowboarding, and duck hunting! Powered by local outdoor store & fly shop in Charlotte, Jesse Brown’s: host Bill Bartee invites you to a replay of a visit with Jimmy Dobes of Southeast Specialty Outdoors & Kim Jochl from the Sugar Mountain Resort.

Segment 2, December 30th, 2023 It’s wintertime and folks not only from the Carolinas but up and down the eastern seaboard are making the trip to the largest ski resort in North Carolina! Sugar Mountain Resort is the destination of the season and Kim Jochl joins the Carolina Outdoors podcast to discuss all things Ski Sugar. Kim Jochl is an aviator, multiple time author, ski athlete, and helps to run the show up on Sugar Mountain. With freezing temperatures at night and milder temperatures during the days, the Sugar Moutain snow blowers are on full force helping to widen slopes and create the best possible powder for skiers and snowboarders. Sugar Mountain Resort invests every year in their snow making infrastructure in order to create quality slopes. From the external snow machines to the internal system of pipes and pumps, keeping the entire system up to date is crucial to providing great conditions to all skiers and snowboarders. Many technological improvements have also been made in recent years to help efficiency of sales, rentals, lines, etc. up on Sugar Mountain. From first-time beginners to expert racers, there is something on Sugar Mountain for you! Jochl discusses the importance of preparation for your day on the slopes regardless of skill level. Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s has all the coats, warm base layers, gloves, hats, or even sun protection you could need out on the mountain! Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Kim Jochl about the specifics of skiing Sugar Mountain this winter. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Sugar Mountain Resort is a year-round attraction 10 slopes, 5 lifts, tubing, and ice skating are open There has been 7 inches of natural snow this winter so far Sugar Mountain Resort is first come, first serve There is something for all levels of skiers and snowboarders

Segment 3, December 30th, 2023 Believe it or not, there are few groups of people who love this time of year when the cold and nastier weather shows up! On this section of Carolina Outdoors we delve into the life of one of those groups– duck hunters. Jimmy Dobes of Southeast Specialty Outdoors joins the conversation to discuss all things duck hunting and how to best prepare for an enjoyable hunt this season. From analyzing wind direction, choosing your decoy spread, using various calls and finding your “X”, Dobes dives into the specifics when it comes to a successful hunt. Scouting, or preparing for a hunt, is considered to be just as important. Dobes shares, “The most successful hunters are those that put in a little extra effort when it comes to scouting.” Fighting a unusually warm season this year, duck hunters are more optimistic than ever with upcoming cold fronts. In terms of equipment and gear, Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s, has got you covered! Layering and staying warm are simply crucial to a fun hunt. Dobes shares his go-to is a light-weight base layer paired with a heavier-weight insulation piece and a wind-breaker shell and with hunts in the water, a quality pair of waders. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Jimmy Dobes about how to best prepare and enjoy duck hunting season this year. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: The most important first step to an enjoyable hunt is figuring out current wind direction Birds are always going to try to land with the wind in their face Your “X” is where you’re setting up your blind for the hunt Nasty and cold conditions in the north are ideal to a southeastern duck hunter The difference between field hunts vs. wetland hunts “Start from the ground up” — layer to stary warm Start with a light-weight base layer, then a heavier weight insulation piece, then a wind-breaker material Light-weight and breathable waders are necessary A wooden call, or a single reed all, is going to be quiet and simpler An acrylic call is louder and raspier

Segment ,4 December 30th, 2023 Show wrap up includes thank you to Kim Jochl from Sugar Mountain Resort & Jimmy Dobes from Southeast Specialty Outdoors. For more information visit us at Charlotte’s outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s

Segment 1, December 23rd, 2023 Saddle Up! The Carolina Outdoors is now in session. Powered by local outdoor store & fly shop in Charlotte, Jesse Brown’s: Host Bill Bartee invites you to a replay of a visit with Dick Roberts of McAdenville & Stephen Youngblade from the Whitewater Center.

Segment 2, December 23rd, 2023 Built so that you could access the activities of the mountains closer to the city, The Whitewater Center, located in western Mecklenburg continues to be a place of activity, even in the winter. Many of us use the venue for mountain biking, climbing, music festivals, ropes courses and YES-white water rafting and kayaking. But what about…winter time? Several years ago, ice skating was added but now it has been expanded. The Pond, some of the trails are lit——-and yes, you can still zipline, bike, climb and more. The Carolina Outdoors has a new contributor from the WhiteWater Center, Stephen Youngblade. He joins the program to help us learn about the programs & activities, during the winter time. We may also find the time to ask him about the new properties that have come onboard Whitewater & what purpose they’re made to serve. We’ll learn about: Ice skating Pop Up Shops Pond Hockey New Years Eve Trail Race Road to Trail Race & ½ marathon & the newer properties: Pisgah, Santee, Grayson Make sure you schedule a trip to the U.S National Whitewater Center soon because they have plenty of winter activities going on! You can ice skate, hike a trail of lights, zipline, or enjoy a hot cocoa by the fire! Be sure to grabs your layers from Jesse Brown’s Outdoors because it looks like cold temperatures are a head of us!  

Segment 3, December 23rd, 2023 We took a look back to 2021 & Christmas Day with a visit with Dick Roberts. He was on hand when this village in the 1950’s when McAdenville became Christmas Town, USA. Our sponsor, Jesse Brown’s, invites you to check out the famed Sundowner GTX boots for your next visit to the woods, city, restaurant, or campus.

Segment 4, December 23rd, 2023 A quick thanks to our guests: Stephen Youngblade from the Whitewater Center & a return to a 2021 visit with Christmas Town‘s Dick Roberts. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by the Filson shirts at the Charlotte outdoor store & sponsor, Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 1, December 16th, 2023 Outdoor Activities, Events, & the People that make things happen in our Carolina Outdoors. This week the program features Jay Ahuja & the Documentary, “Live from the Double Door” & Jake Rash, Coldwater Research Coordinator for the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Powered by the local fly shop and Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 2, December 16th, 2023 It’s easy to talk about cold water fisheries when it is cold & that’s what we’re about to do on this segment of the Carolina Outdoors. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Jake Rash, the Coldwater Research Coordinator for the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Here he assists with the coordination of applied research and management of the state’s trout resources. This means he helps decide the how, when, and where of our NC trout streams.Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: How Mecklenburg County received a trout stocking in December of 2023 The state continues to seek ways to expand fishing opportunities for anglers A recent economic study found that there was aa $1.38 billion impact 370,000 anglers fished for trout in 2022 in North Carolina The Delayed Harvest program in NC just celebrated their 31st anniversary Also: The Catawba River Tailrace below Lake James gets fish stockings of trout 9-10 inches. However, the river has a population of larger brown trout, including some that are 30 inches.  

Segment 3, December 16th, 2023 There is a quote in a documentary, created in Charlotte: “Good Music & A Good Place to play it…bring people together.” The Executive Producer of that documentary, Jay Ahuja, Ahuja Daddy Productions, was one of the creators of the documentary, Live From the Double Door. The Double Door Tavern opened in December of 1973 at 216 E. Independence here in CLT. This was right around the corner from the local outdoor store that had just recently opened called Jesse Brown’s. The Double Door Inn had a forty-three year run before closing to progress in the area. The property was taken over by CPCC but the Double Door still lives in the hearts of people that went there. . Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Jay Ahuja about an upcoming celebration of the Double Door Inn’s opening. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: The Double Door Inn was considered the second oldest blues venue in the United States under the original ownership. Eric Clapton took the stage in 1982 for a one night gig. The Venue was a two-story home that turned into a restaurant/bar before music Blues, Rock, Country, Zydeco, & Jazz were all featured at the Double Door Inn It was owned and operated by Nick Karres Several touring groups & local artists played there 2023 featured a book featuring the venue, “In the House of the Rising Sounds” by Stephen Copeland Also: There’s a party featuring the documentary & discussion at the Independent Picturehouse on December 22, 2023, at 8 p.m. Plus, a never-before-screened 8-minute bonus feature of the club’s owner, Nick Karres, talking about the early days. The screening starts at 8PM and tickets are just $10 in advance. One night only and just 90 seats available. All proceeds will go to the Charlotte Film Society. Tickets are available at Live from the Double Door Inn – Independent Picture House

Segment 4, December 16th, 2023 Jay Ahuja mentioned that other places to hear good live music in Charlotte are Comet Grill, Neighborhood Theater, & the Visulite. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors thanked his guests, Jay Ahuja, from Live From the Double Door, & Jake Rash, of the NC Wildlife Resource Commission. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area

Segment 1, December 9th 2023 Segment Highlights: Tune in for Judy Walker of the Mecklenburg Audobon Society & Robin Stallings from Robin Stallings Art. First, Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors talks about the Holiday Hop in Southpark (Charlotte, NC). Also, an Informational for the April 20th, 2024, Ultimate Hike with Cure Search for Children’s Cancer will happen on December 13th, 6-7 pm at Jesse Brown’s. Lastly, Bill talks about his recent 6-mile Catawba River Tailrace in Glen Alpine, NC. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.

Segment 2, December 9th, 2023 The Southpark Community Partners is celebrating the holidays with the Holiday Hop. It started on December 6th and ends December 10th. This includes free shuttle rides throughout the municipal district of Southpark, activities & deals, festivities, & a Window Walk. Our next guest, Robin Stallings, is a local artist with an interesting story. Her art is on display at Jesse Brown’s, as a part of the Window Walk. A celebration of local artists sharing their talents in collaboration with area businesses. Stallings’ art in the Sharon Corners Shopping Center will be on display for the entire month of December. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Robin Stallings from Robin Stallings Art. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Stallings’ mother was Japanese & her father American so she had a diverse influences growing up. Her father was a talented pottery maker in Gaston County (JS Pottery). She’s always loved the outdoors & that’s inspired her Nature Driven Collection Landscapes, Outdoor Activities, & Wildlife are a part of her display of art Her description of putting the diarama as a part of the Window Walk in Southpark Also: Stallings has raised thousands of dollars for different causes for women & children in the Charlotte-area. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area

Segment 3, December 9th 2023 One of the most participated pursuits in the United States is birdwatching. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration there are over 45 million Americans that take part in birdwatching each year. Think of the different ways that we watch birds. Someone on Lake Normanchasing stripers & hybrid bass eating on the surface will use the signs of birds eating to help locate the fish. Then there is the deer hunter sitting in his stand, watching the morning wake up. Waiting for that trophy deer to amble through…what does he or she see? Birds beginning their day. Many of us have feeders outside our kitchen window or out on our balcony or deck. We get to see the interaction of these birds with each other, with the feeder, and with their overall surroundings. Listeners to the Carolina Outdoors may be bird watchers, deer hunters, hikers, or just like a tree for shade on a sunny day. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Judy Walker from the Mecklenburg Audobon Society. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Changes that have occurred over the past 53-years with the Mecklenburg Audobon Society The variety of membership throughout the Charlotte-area What happens on a Bird Walk with Meck Birds? Places to go & what we’ll see The focus on conservation, habitat, & education The National Audobon Society has had a Christmas Bird Count for the past 120-years. The Mecklenburg version is large & happens between mid-December and mid-January. The diversity of birds being seen due to warming temperatures. More Insights from the Outdoor Guys: Judy has been a contributor to the Carolina Outdoors for twenty-five years. She’s a great resource of information for our community of birders. The original local group, the Meck Audobon Club began in 1937, the morphed into the Mecklengburg Audobon Society in 1970. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.

Segment 4, December 9th, 2023 Thank you to Robin Stallings of Robin Stallings Art & Judy Walker from the Mecklenburg Audobon Society for joining us this week. Remember to make the Carolina Outdoors look a little bit better than you found it…& Pick Up Your Trash.   The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.

Segment 1, December 2nd, 2023 We’re starting the show. Enjoy our topics of Cold Weather Camping and the Twentieth anniversary of Mountain Khakis. You’re invited to events at Jesse Brown’s this month: Thursday, December 7th, 2–6, Holiday Open House at Jesse Brown’s with Mountain Khakis & Legacy Whiskey Wednesday, December 13th, 6–7, Cure Search for Children’s Cancer Hiking Informational

Segment 3, December 2nd, 2023 The cold weather is here & while that means that many like huddling up around a fire place there are still a lot of people that continue to get outdoors. Hunters, Hikers, & yes, even campers are still being outside during the cold weather months. There are several reasons that cold weather camping is desirable. We’re going to talk about some of those reasons: Less haze for views, no bugs, no snakes, less sweat & perspiration & also guess what…less crowds. However, there are dangers associated with cold weather camping. We’re going to talk about the ways to be safe & still enjoy going outside. Let’s bring him on to see how we can still be outside, enjoy it, and be comfortable and safe. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with outfitter, Alex Flowers, from Jesse Brown’s. He’s been getting outside—AND has plans to get out more. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Wear a good base layer to keep you warm and wick moisture. Wear Layers to regulate your warmth with the appropriate association Use warm water in a non-metal water bottle. Eat a Warm Meal Before Bed Put more than one person in a tent Use a cell foam mattress The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area. Thursday, Dec. 7th, 2—6, Holiday Open House w/ MK Try On Event Wednesday, Dec. 13th, 6—7, Cure Search Cure for Cancer Informational session

Segment 3, December 2nd, 2023 Twenty years ago a new brand started in the outdoor business. It started as a business plan that was unveiled at Jesse Brown’s. The business plan was for the brand, Mountain Khakis. The pants, inspired by the mountain west, where groomed by the south. In fact, the brand was founded and is still headquartered in Charlotte. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Ronnie Warner from Worth Repping has worked with Mountain Khakis over the past ten years. He’s had a view of the brand and its affect on the industry, which he shares with us on the Carolina Outdoors. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Warner’s first introduction to Mountain Khakis Mountain Khakis helping celebrate the “casual mindset…with a rugged sensibility.” The pants featured a gusseted crotch, triple stitch seams, and deep pockets. The trend of dressy to casual in the apparel world The growth of Mountain Khakis into a full collection of men’s shirts, pants, and outerwear The Twenty Year Celebration on Thursday, December 7th, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area. Great Wagon Road distillery released a Legacy Whiskey with Mountain Khakis. A tasting will be available at Jesse Brown’s.

Segment 4, December 2nd, 2023 Join us for a Holiday Open House, Thursday, December 7th, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for a Mountain Khaki Whiskey Tasting & Pants Try On Event Also, a Cure Search for Children’s Cancer event on Wednesday, December 13th, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.  

Segment 1 November 18th, 2023 Listen in this week to camp fire & burning bans from the Blue Ridge Parkway to more than 13 state parks. The ban is due to dry weather. Also, prepare for conversations with Chef Jim Noble. He has popular restaurants such as Roosters & Noble Smoke. Plus, Jane Singleton Myers will join the program to talk about Trees Charlotte.  

Segment 2, November 18th, 2023 Thanksgiving brings so many friends & families together each year. It is a time of celebration. Famed North Carolina chef, Jim Noble, returns to the Carolina Outdoors to talk about the heritage & traditions of Thanksgiving but also the mission of feeding the spiritual soul of many with Noble & companies other mission. Listeners to the Carolina Outdoors always like a good meal. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with Chef Jim Noble. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Jim Noble’s preparation of Chicken Gizzards will make you like them The foods of Thanksgiving can evolve within different friends & families. Foodies are necessarily a qualifiable title Food unites everyone whether business, faith, family, friends Many Traditions are individual & personal Restaurants to feed people & Ministry to feed a communities need More Insights from the Outdoor Guys: Restaurants under Noble are Roosters, The Kings Kitchen, Copain Bakery, Noble Smoke, Bossy Beulah’s, Field Pea Catering The Pursuits portion include the Charlotte Mecklenburg Dream Center, The King’s Kitchen, & Le Premier Miracle Wine Noble uses the outdoors to refresh. Upland bird hunting & Fly Fishing are two of his favorites. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.

Segment 3, November 18th, 2023 Studies show that being around trees lowers stress, improves focus, & invites calming feelings. Also, people that take breaks in a green environment have more task consistency & make less errors that those that take breaks looking at concrete. Listeners to the Carolina Outdoors may be bird watchers, deer hunters, hikers, or just like a tree for shade on a sunny day. Bill Bartee from the Charlotte outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s & host of the Carolina Outdoors had a chance to speak with the Executive Director of Trees Charlotte, Jane Singleton Myers. She took over the local non-profit that advocates for trees. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Jane is known as the “Tree Lady” to many. A credit to her step-daughter when she became the Trees Charlotte leader Charlotte has been called the “City of Trees” Her outlook on the recent report listing a tree canopy decline in Charlotte the past four years (2018-2022) from 47.8% to 47.3% How Trees help limit sick days, ADHD, Asthma, & traffic speeds The seasons for a tree & what happens each season What’s a Tree Master with Trees Charlotte? A Tree Ambassador? Although it is not managed directly by Trees Charlotte, the Treasure Tree program helps promote special trees in the area. Education about tree maintenance, health, & importance is something that Trees Charlotte is expandingMore Insights from the Outdoor Guys: Tree Plantings through Trees Charlotte are a great way to team build for corporate groups, clubs, families, & more. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.        

Segment 4, November 18th, 2023 :30 Seconds Sending thanks for our guests & TJ the DJ for helping make this week’s show! Remember to Make the Carolina Outdoors better than you found it…& Pick Up Your Trash!

November 11th, 2023 Segment 1, Bear attack on a camper trailer in Sapphire, NC closes the campground at Gorges State Park until November 16th, 2023. The supposed bear ripped the siding off the trailer. Neither bear nor visitor to the park were injured during the attack. However, the park decided to close the campground for two weeks. Staff is implementing precautions to prevent bear interactions with humans. The park remains open for day use. but the park advises visitors to always use caution.

Segment 2, November 11th, 2023 Deer hunters wake up! But please be safe with tree stands & motorists need to be aware during the deer rut. False albacore is happening at the southern Outer Banks on Harker’s Island & the Cape Lookout area. A Sage nine-weight fly rod or a Sage ten-weight Fly Rod is perfect for this type of fly fishing. Trout streams continue to be low. However the low water has helped the top water fly fishing action in the mountains. Fly Fishing trips have continued to be popular with the guides from Jesse Brown’s. The guides are helping everyone from beginners to more experience anglers that are working on specific portions of the sport. Please pick a date and email us at [email protected]. The rest following that is easy. The lack of rain has put burn bans on thirty counties in western North Carolina. However, the burn bans don’t mean that you cannot have a camp fire? No. You can still have a campfire in a fire ring or a managed fire area. This can change depending on the situation which not only includes rainfall but also wind situation. UPDATE on FIRE BANS: thirteen state parks in NC have a campfire ban in place now. These state parks include: Chimney Rock State Park Crowders Mountain State Park Elk Knob State Park Gorges State Park Grandfather Mtn State Park Lake James State Park Lake Norman State Park Mount Jefferson State Natural Area Mt Mitchell State Park New River State Park Rendezvous Mtn South Mountains State Park Stone Mountain State Park  

Segment 3, November 11th, 2023 Fall and November help take us to the fresh air of the countryside. Take a breath, look at the blue sky, & somehow feel in touch with nature and the outdoors. Farm life is a part of that outdoors experience. Some listening may live on a farm while many more have had relatives that spent time in their lives on the farm. The rest of us enjoy the harvest, the bounty from the farm. The Carolina Outdoors heads down to the crossroad community of Filbert, SC, located between York & Clover, SC. We bring on Sam Hall from the Bush N Vine Farm to talk about what’s happening on the farm. On this segment you’ll learn: -The Leaf Change on the peach trees -We learn about the produce & spirit of fall on the farm -What makes the fall strawberries taste so good -although the cooler weather quiets some activity the CSA ends for 2023 but the Nature Trail is open -Preparing for 2024 is a big part of the end of the year. -How a Multi-generational farm family celebrates Thanksgiving  

Segment 4, November 11th, 2023 Hiking safely around waterfalls is important this time of year. Fallen leaves, algae on rocks, & freezing temperatures can make it dangerous. Listen to host, Bill Bartee, from the outdoor store in Charlotte. L.L. Bean’s famed Duck Boot is on-hand at Jesse Brown’s & at the Southern Christmas Show Booth #38. This boot is made in the U.S.A. Stop by and check it out. Plus, we revisit the incident that occurred at Gorges State Park during October. A bear tore the siding off the side of a Camper that was parked in the Campground. It was discussed in the opening segment of the Carolina Outdoors. The campground is closed in the park until 11/16. Check out the report on the bear at Gorges.

Segment 1, November 4th, 2023 The Carolina Outdoor program starts up this week’s show. Topics are a hike gone wrong & the Carolina Raptor Center. Note: If you’re going for a hike remember to take, navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid, fire, repair tools, nutrition, hydration, emergency shelter.  

Segment 2, November 4th, 2023 This time of year puts a lot of us into the outdoors. We don’t worry about the bugs, the heat, & we can enjoy the fresh air & beauty that the outdoors gives us. One of the top visited places are the mountains. Anyone who has been through the NC mountain towns of Boone or Asheville, has seen the amount of visitors enjoying nature’s annual show of the leaf change. Another group of folks have hit the trail to enjoy some exercise, fresh air, and beauty. Although across the state line, Southwest TN & North Georgia hikers are celebrating the same, including the Chattanooga, TN-area. Mary Cole is a teacher in the Hamilton County school district & enjoys getting outdoors. We’re going to bring her on to talk about her hiking pursuits but also talk about her recent, scary 30-foot fall from a popular TN hiking destination. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Mary Cole is exploring the Chattanooga area Guild Trail & Sunset Rock are some of her favorite hikes and they’re located on Lookout Mountain. One of those hikes is up to Sunset Rock located within the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. This area includes more than 30 miles of trails including old railroad beds dating back 19th century. She and a friend are on a hike on October 28th, 2023, when a misstep turned into a 30 ft fall. Mary Cole is rescued & recovering from that fall She recommends going to a friend on a hike. Her friend, fortunately had an interest in medicine, and was able to help with care before rescuers arrived. More Insights from the Outdoor Guys: Let someone know when you’re going on a hike & go with a friend. The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area. Prepare for a hike: navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid, fire, repair tools, nutrition, hydration, emergency shelter

Segment 3, November 4th, 2023 One of the best parts of being outdoors is being able to wildlife watch. Birds are the most popular animal to view & the raptor being the most captivating & inspiring. This of the fishing of an osprey, the soaring of an eagle, the hunting eye of a hawk, or the wisdom of an owl. All of those birds of prey are able to be seen in the wild of the Carolinas. However there is also the Carolina Raptor Center located at the Latta Nature Preserve in Huntersville, NC. Host Bill Bartee of the Carolina Outdoors was able to catch up with CEO & President of the Carolina Raptor Center, Erin Katzner, to learn more about this nationally recognized facility. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: Home to one of the best research facilities & a rehabilitation center on-site that helps almost 1,000 birds a year. Nearly 70% are able to be released back into the wild. Over 27,000 students of all ages, visit the CRC each year to learn about Raptors, science, & ecology. Research of raptors including partnerships with colleges and universities. Currently a research and test of an avian influenza vaccine for California Condors featuring a group of similar birds, the Black Vulture. There is the Raptor Trail that is a 3/4 mile trail where you can see the birds. The largest species of birds in the Carolinas & the highest number that come into the CRC The difference of Katzner’s previous stops versus the CRC More Insights from the Outdoor Guys: The Calendar of events at the Carolina Raptor Center The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.

November 4th, 2023, Segment 4 Click here for more information on the Carolina Raptor Center & events and opportunities that they have happening. Special thanks to Erin Katzner from the Carolina Raptor Center for joining us on the Carolina Outdoors. Challenge yourself to climb Mount Jesse Brown’s to the top of the summit of the brick and mortar. You can also check out the website. Popular outdoor brands like Patagonia are available at Jesse Brown’s. Patagonia is celebrating fifty years as a company but the outdoor shirt headquarters also has brands like Filson, started in 1897 and featured prominently on the show Yellowstone. The outdoor store in Charlotte also has Duckhead Pants. Check it all out online. Thanks to our guests & Make the Carolina Outdoors look better than you found it…& pick up your trash.

Segment 1, October 27th, 2023 Tune in for information on the famed NRS Green Race on November 4th & a fly fishing report from the western North Carolina mountains Longtime host of the Carolina Outdoors, Bill Bartee, steers the outdoor topics. Thanks to sponsor, local outdoor store, Jesse Brown’s. Charlotte’s home to Duck Head, Mountain Khakis, and On Cloud Shoes.

Segment 2, October 28th, 2023 Several weeks ago we welcomed Head Fly Fishing Guide & Lead Instructor from Jesse Brown’s, Elijah Saint Blancard. He’s hit the ground running by speaking to groups in Charlotte & taking several fly fishing trips around the NC mountains. He knows where the water is flowing and where the fish are biting. More importantly he knows the sport of fly fishing (the how to learn properly, have fun, and catch fish). In the segment of the show, Saint Blancard, speaks with host, Bill Bartee of the Carolina Outdoors about fly fishing western North Carolina during this time of year. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: How the fall fly fishing is shaping up thus far? Addresses the concerns of water levels and the benefit of the cooler temperatures The people going on the fly fishing trips are men & women of all ages. What they’re catching and what flies are working Saint Blancard’s recommendation of a few places to Go: Wilson Creek, Old Fort’s Curtis Creek, Catawba River in Marion, NC, Mitchell River in Surry County, & the East Fork of the Roaring River in Stone Mountain State Park More Insights from the Outdoor Guys: Book a North Carolina Fly Fishing Trip with Elijah at [email protected] or Call 704.556.0020 The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.

Segment 3, October 28th, 2023 The first Saturday in November is an exciting day in the Kayaking World & it happens right her in the Carolinas. The Green River Narrows Race is the largest extreme kayak race in the world. The race takes place in the Green River Gorge within the Green River Game lands near Saluda, NC. It is organized and produced by Hammer Factor. In the segment of the show we speak with Race organizer, Hammer Factor’s John Grace, who speaks to host Bill Bartee while preparing for the 28th Year now called the NRS Green Race. Things You’ll Learn by Listening: Show Highlights: The Course is made up of 0.6 miles of back-to-back-to back Class V Rapids with racers taking off every minute Although celebrated as the Greatest Show in all of Sports it is still community minded & locally friendly. The best kayakers in the world for every single minute you will see world champions, gold medalists, whose qualifications are verified before they are accepted as a racer. The river drops 225 feet over the the length of the course including Gorilla, Pencil Sharpener, Go Left & other plunges and rapids. Participants age from teenager to paddlers in their fifties including a mother & son. The hike into the Green River Gorge is a treacherous, challenging scramble for two miles that make 1,000 feet of up & down, round-trip. The good news is it is free to watch. It’s Extreme but the experience of the paddlers helps negate the danger The theme this year is Hurts So Good More Insights from the Outdoor Guys: Visit the Pre-Party before the race. NRS Green Race Pre-Party The Awards Festival The Carolina Outdoors is brought to you by Jesse Brown’s. Check out this Charlotte outdoor store located in the Southpark-area.

Segment 4, October 28th, 2023 A recent study by Peter Gray, a researcher in psychology & neuroscience at Boston College joined with David Bjorklund from Florida Atlantic University & David Lancy, an anthropologist & professor from Utah State argues that the crisis that has befallen U.S. youth can be traced to a lack of independence. Lancy stated that the three authors were “struck by the shrinkage in the amount of time that children spend on their own & the territory they may explore…” during an interview with Caitlin Gibson of the Washington Post. This along with the published theory of Richard Louv in his 2005 book “Last Child in the Woods” coined the term Nature Deficit Disorder. This was from children now spending much more time indoors than in previous generations. The gang at the Carolina Outdoors isn’t for promoting high risk activities in children but feel that the promotion of being outside, enjoying a hike, some time fly fishing, or even a permitted bike ride in the neighborhood helps build independence and a healthy, mental state & disposition. In other words, make your kids spend some portion of their week outdoors.

Segment 1, October 21st, 2023 Host Bill Bartee introduces you to this week’s show. He and the team operate at the Brick and Mortar of Jesse Brown’s in Charlotte, NC & online.

Segment 2, October 20, 2023 Fall in the Carolina’s brings cooler weather, beauty, & cold water. The cold water is what we want to talk about on this segment of the Carolina Outdoors because it is where the rainbow, brook, & brown trout are living. Guest Sam Johnson of WIld Bearings Outdoors is an author, speaker, & sportsman. He joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk fly fishing in western North Carolina this fall. You’ll Learn: The Lakes of the Biltmore Estate Information about filming Wild Bearings Outdoors program on The American Country Network Beauty of fishing in the fall Challenge of fishing with leaves falling & how to solve it Five places to fish that are featured with almost 200 other streams in Fly Fishing the Blue Ridge Parkway-NC. Johnson names: The Doe River that eventually flows into Elizabethton, TN Lower Creek in the Mount Mitchell area of North Carolina Dutch Creek outside Valle Crucis, NC East Fork of the Chestnut Creek below Galax, VA