Sunday, May 31, 2009

Exhibit: Comporium Student Art Contest

June 8-10, 2009 -  Enjoy artwork created by students in Transylvania County for this contest by Comporium. Artwork will be on display June 8-10 from 10 am - 4 pm. There will be a winners reception at TC Arts Council on June 8th from 5:30 pm -7:00 pm. For more info. call TC Arts Council at 884-2787. Location: TC Arts 349 S. Caldwell Street Time(s): 10 am - 4 pm Cost: Free Contact: Tammy - TC Arts 884-2787

Jazz at Sunset Music Series-Odd Meters

June 5 Brevard Jazz at Sunset Music Series-Odd Meters
Odd Meters (Shane Parreco and Jon Morrow) 7:30-9p.m., library, 212 South Gaston Street, Brevard. Info. 884-3151 ext. 223 • marcie.west@transylvaniacounty.org

The Guerrilla Divas Host Homemade Opera

June 5, 7 Brevard. The Guerrilla Divas Host Homemade Opera June 5, 7p.m., and June 7, at 3p.m., 502 E. French Broad Street, Brevard. Tickets advance $25/singles $40/couples or $30 and $50 respectively at the door. Information and reservation contact Karen Palmer at 883-2927. Seating is limited.

Fontana Lake Fun

Smoky Mountain Jetboat Rides are a popular attraction on the 400-deep Fontana Lake. Riders are thrilled to experience the boat’s trademark Hamilton spins – a flat spin within the boat’s own length. Yet the biggest surprise may come when the 11-passenger craft ventures up the relatively shallow Nantahala River to the base of Wesser Falls. How is this possible? Drawing just four inches of draft, the New Zealand-style jet boat rides like a ski on the surface of the water, enabling it to go where no other speed boat would dare go.

LULU'S ON MAIN

LULU'S ON MAIN - Lulu's Cafe is a delectable surprise for travelers visiting the Great Smoky Mountains and a home away for home for those who live here. Nestled in the heart of Main Street Sylva, Lulu's offers a varied and imaginatively prepared menu. Lulu's maintains a reputation of folks going out of their way to stop and grab a bite to eat on vacation.

TREE WALK in Sylva

TREE WALK. The 1.2-mile Sylva Tree Walk is home to 44 of the more than 50 species in Sylva, designated Tree City USA. Col. Theodore Fuller, local author and artist, created the tree walk in 1981. The Sylva Garden Club currently maintains the walk, which features a guide book, map and small signs at the base of each tree indicating its common name. The walk officially begins in the shade of Bicentennial Park near the old courthouse, but folks are welcome to pick a parking place and start at any point along the trail. Jackson County Visitors Center on West Main Street, or call (800) 962-1911.

TUCKASEIGEE VALLEY CABINS

TUCKASEIGEE VALLEY CABINS 4 Uniquely decorated cabins with great views close to the best trout stream in NC. The cabins are fully equipped with air conditioning. Porches have rockers and there are also charcoal grills, firepits and fishing pond for children. $95-$195nt, $575-$975wk

Patchwork Fabric Festival

June 6 9-5PM. Cullowhee, Jackson County Recreation Center. Established to forever honor and preserve our local talents & provide a sales outlet showcasing our unique mountain heritage. The traditions of spinning, weaving, quilting, sewing and other hand stitchery has survived in the Appalachian culture through the generations, kept alive by the hands of those who value these skills passed down to them. Website: http://spiritofappalachia.org Email: v.ammons@mchsi.com Phone: 828-631-4587

The North Carolina Arboretum

Nestled in one of the most botanically diverse and beautiful natural settings in America, the Arboretum offers engaging outdoor and indoor exhibits that provide opportunities to cultivate connections with plants and explore how plants are important to our world.

Featured traveling exhibits at the Baker Exhibit Center provide interactive, enriching exhibits for all ages and interests, including group tours, field trips for school groups, members and visitors. The Education Center displays exhibits throughout the year by regional artists and craftsfolk that highlight the region's rich cultural heritage and crafts industry, and the Arboretum's Production Greenhouse displays innovations in horticulture.

The Arboretum's 434 acres of natural beauty provides ample opportunities for all ages to connect with nature and learn how plants are important to our world. Visitors from across the world enjoy exploring the Arboretum's outdoor exhibits such as art installations and 65 acres of cultivated gardens, including one of the finest, most unique bonsai collections in the United States

FISH POND CABINS

FISH POND CABINS. (6) Here you will be connected with nature. Hike our private mountain, pick wild berries, fish our 3 ½ acre 40' deep pond, or just relax and breathe the air of tranquility. Our 6 cabins offer large private secured decks, BBQ, table. $65-$125 per night, $375-$625 per wk

Spring Festival

June 6 MURPHY Spring Festival. Crafts, food, music and family fun, including a kid's corner. Antique car and tractor shows. Held rain or shine! Downtown Murphy (828)837-6821

Curb Market Old Timey Day

June 6 HENDERSONVILLE Curb Market Old Timey Day. The Henderson County Curb Market is the South's most unique Curb Market. This special event includes music, sausage & ham biscuits cooked on a old timey wood stove, antique displays and more. All items sold at the market must be either handmade or locally grown Henderson County. 221 Church Street 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM 828)692-8012

OAK HILL ON LOVE LANE - Waynesville B&B

OAK HILL ON LOVE LANE offers high end beds and bedding, gourmet breakfast, wireless internet, flat screen TVs, fireplaces in every room, locally produced all-natural soaps and lotions, local original art. $150-$235 per night

Art After Dark

June 5 6-9PM Waynesville. The Waynesville Gallery Association presents Art After Dark on Friday. June's Art After Dark theme is “Celebrating the Colors of Summer.” Stroll working studios and galleries on Main Street, Depot Street and in Historic Frog Level.

Saturday, May 30, 2009

TC Arts Summer Art Camp

June 22- 26 Brevard. The Transylvania Community Arts Council invites youth ages 5-12 years old to explore visual arts, music, dance and creative writing. There are morning and afternoon sessions available. Am session runs from 9 am - 12 noon and the pm session runs from 1 pm - 4 pm. Cost for the week-long art camp is $75 per child. To register call TCArts at 884-2787. This event is sponsored by the Heart of Brevard's Kids Art Scholarship Program.

Gallery Exhibit: Comporium Student Art Contest

June 8 - 10 Brevard. The Transylvania Community Arts Council has teamed with Comporium to host this art exhibit by students in Transylvania County. Comporium will be awarding top prizes in three categories: high school, middle school and elementary school. The winners will be announced at a reception at TC Arts – 349 S. Caldwell St. in Brevard – on Monday, June 8th from 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm. For more information call TC Arts at 828-884-2787.

37th Annual Mt. Airy Fiddlers Convention

June 5 -6 Mount Airy. This event is held at Veterans Memorial Park in Mount Airy. For Further Information call (336) 786-2236, email garyatv@aol.com or visit www.mtairyfiddlersconvention.com

Friday, May 29, 2009

Carolina Mountain Golf Open

May 29-30 Whittier, Smoky Mountain Country Club. 36 Hole, Individual Stroke Play (flighted) OVER $5,000 in PRIZES including golf packages at Pinehurst, Grandover Resort and Myrtle Beach $150/person entry fee includes golf, meals, contests, range balls & prizes. To sign up or for more information call 828‐497‐7622 Whittier, North Carolina (U.S. 74, Exit 72)

Quick Mountain June Escape!

June 5-14 Flat Rock Mountain Lodge and Conference Center. Stay any number of nights between June 5-14, 2009 and receive a 25% discount plus a free room upgrade *Only valid for guest stays June 5-14, 2009 and only for new reservations. Guest must mention offer code: 25Free to receive this offer* 42 Mcmurray Road, Flat Rock

THREE MOUNTAIN MADNESS-Bike Ride

May 30 - 13th Annual Bike ride from Armfield Civic and Recreation Center to Sauratown, Hanging Rock State Park and Pilot Mountain State Park. For More information please call: (336) 368-2012. or visit: www.3mountainmadness.com

Fishstock

May 30 11 am - 5 pm - Mount Airy at Westwood Park/Tumbling Rock Reservoir - Mount Airy Parks and Recreation is partnering with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Opie’s Candy Store, BSA Troop 556 and two local bands (Peace of Mind and Midlife Crisis) to bring you our first ever, community fishing day extravaganza!
There are no admission or entry fees. If you don’t have a fishing pole or bait, just call us at 786-8313 to reserve a loaner pole (limited quantities available)!

38th Annual Blue Grass & Old Time FIDDLERS CONVENTION

June 5 - 6 Mount Airy. Always held the first weekend in June at the Veterans Memorial Park, 631 West Lebanon Street, Mount Airy, North Carolina, Starting Friday at 7:00 pm and Saturday at 9:30 am,

Homebrew Class - All grain German Kolsch Bier

June 7 noon-4PM Asheville, Hops & Vines. All grain German Kolsch Bier. Learn all then ins and outs of all-grain brewing and feel confident in making the next step. We brew the beer on premises and cover everything - mashing, sparging, recipe formulation, sanitation and fermentation and bottling. The class includes a follow up bottling class two weeks later, when we bottle the beer and you take home a 6 pack of the brew! We've had great response with our classes, so sign up now and start brewing great beer right out of the gate. $45 per person covers everything. We require pre-payment to reserve your spot. 828-252-5275

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Parkway Playhouse box office opens

May 31 Burnsville, The Parkway Playhouse opens its 63rd season in 2009. he Parkway Playhouse box office will open at 1:00 PM on May 29 and then ALL regular seats will be on sale for the summer season.Individual tickets are priced as follows:

FIRST THURSDAY
$10 play/$12 musical
(please note the first Thursday for OKLAHOMA is June 25 and NO additional discounts or season passes may be used. All seats general admission.)
FRI/SAT
$20 play/$22 musical
FAMILY PASS (2 adults/2 kids):$60 musical/$56 play
2ND THURSDAY/SATURDAY MATINEES
$18 play/ $20 musical
FAMILY PASS (2 adults/2kids): $56 musical/$52 play
ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS (aged 5-18), SENIOR CITIZENS, AND GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE.
http://www.parkwayplayhouse.com/

FREE Beer Tasting

May 29 4-7PM Asheville, Hops & Vines. Beat the heat this Friday as we taste three German lager value beers. Who says that inexpensive beer can't taste great? Well, we've found some! Real German Lagers under $5.99 a 6-pack! Germania Lager, Apostel Brau, Konig Pilsner. 828-252-5275

Family Fun and a Hearty Hi-Ho Silver!

May 30-31. Bryson CIty, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. All children receive a FREE silver bullet necklace from the Lone Ranger. It's not too late to catch the fun this weekend, May 30th and 31st. The Lone Ranger and Tonto save the day during a live western shootout, saving the train from the Ghost Town Bandits! Have your photo taken with the Lone Ranger, Silver the beautiful trick horse and Tonto.

Art in the Airport

The Asheville Regional Airport Authority is now accepting applications for Art in the Airport. Applications for the next exhibit must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2009. For complete instructions go to: http://www.flyavl.com/media-guide/art-in-the-airport.html

Brevard Lions Club Flea Market

May 30 Brevard The Flea Market will be at Brevard College. Proceeds will fund our projects for the blind and visually impaired. Please help us by donating good items to sell. Call for item pickup to 883-7911, 884-3613, or 884-7904.

Transylvania County Handcrafters Guild Craft Show and Sale

June 5-6 9 AM – 5 PM Brevard, Brevard College under the big tent. Juried craft show and sale of handmade crafts created by Transylvania County crafters. Plenty of free parking. Free

Inspirations from the Forest

June 1- 30 Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM Brevard area, Forest Discovery Center at Cradle of Forestry. A 16-panel exhibit produced by the Smithsonian illustrating how artists, writers, and musicians draw inspiration from the natural world. www.cradleofforestry.org

Thirteen Moons Chef’s Weekend Specials

May 29 - 31 Bryson City, Thirteen Moons at The Village.
Friday:
Appetizer
Roasted Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella Bruschetta with Balsamic Redux
Chef’s Special Entrée
Duck Confit and Arugula Salad with Bleu Cheese and Cherry Vinaigrette
The Pastry Chef’s Creation
Warm Cherries Jubilee with Lemon Pound Cake and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Saturday:
Appetizer
Tempeh and Vegetable Lettuce Rolls with Sweet Chili Aioli
Chef’s Special Entrée
Cajun Rib Eye Blackened Rib Eye Mounded with Crayfish, Bleu Cheese and Bacon
The Pastry Chef’s Creation
Warm Cherries Jubilee with Lemon Pound Cake and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Sunday Brunch:
$11.95 per person Children 5-11, $6.95 ~ 4 and under FREE
10:30am – 2:30pm This Brunch featuring:

* Atlantic Smoked Salmon and Bagel Bar with Capers, Red Onion and Cream Cheese
* Fresh Seasonal Fruit and a Selection of Gourmet Salads
* Omelet Station made to order by our Chef
* Danish Pastries and Muffins
* Thirteen Moons Warm Breakfast Specialty
* A Fantastic Soup du Jour
* Gourmet Pasta Entrée with our Authentic Italian Sauce
* Carving Station featuring a Freshly Prepared Family Roast
* Vegetable and Potatoes
* Sensational Homemade Dessert Buffet
828-488-2826

Cycling; Grandfather Mountain Challenge

Lenoir to Grandfather Mountain Bike ride.

The ride is planned for the third Sunday in September each year.
All start/ride cut off times TBD and posted in July 2009.
Packet pick-up local, date and time TBD and will be posted in July 2009.
DO NOT allow personal vehicles to drive alongside riders. If you are caught, you will be removed from the finisher list.
Registration will begin in July 2009 via Active.com. Riders that rode in 2008 will be able to register first and will be emailed a code for early registration. Registration fees are NOT refundable, but you can transfer your registration if you decide not to ride.
More info http://www.caldwellcochamber.org/aboutus.asp?id06=49&cat06=0

If you have questions about the ride, email melissa@caldwellcochamber.org.

Fish Fry and Live Bluegrass Music

June 5 4-8PM Warrensville. Fish Fry and Live Bluegrass Music – what else could you ask for? Enjoy fish, fries, hushpuppies, slaw and a drink for a mere $8 donation to support Ashe Outreach Ministries and Mobile Meals. This group feeds 1,100 folks in need every month! Ashe Outreach is located at 9382 Hwy. 88 W. (4.5 miles on the right past Blue Ridge Elementary in Warrensville)-look for the flashing “Fish Fry” sign. Call 336-385-1314 for more information.

Fraser Restaurant Extended Hours This Summer:

New hours are seven days a week: Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 2: 30 p.m.; Dinner: Monday through Thursday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The pub is open all hours the restaurant is open, and is open from 5 p.m. til ? on Friday and Saturday as well. Fraser is located in downtown West Jefferson.

Mountain Music Jamboree.

May 30 Glendale Springs. Featuring CrossRoads Band Buffet available 6-7:30 p.m. and the music show is 7:30 p.m. Mountain Music Jamboree is in a fine old big tin-roofed building in Glendale Springs (9331 NC Hwy 16 S) - call owner Arvill Scott for directions at (800) 803-4079. And remember to"Sit and grin or join right in!" Visit their website at www.mountainmusicjamboree.com.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Cherokee Gourd Festival

June 5-7 CHEROKEE Cherokee Gourd Festival This event is truly unique! Featuring classes and workshops on all facets of gourd manufacture and design. All this in a fun and lively festival atmosphere. Cherokee Fair Grounds 800-438-1601

Annual Rose Show

May 30-31 ASHEVILLE The Asheville Blue Ridge Rose Society will hold its annual exhibition at The North Carolina Arboretum. Roses of every color and size will be featured during the exhibition. Knowledgeable society members, will be available to provide information about the selection, care and history of these magnificent garden plants. North Carolina Arboretum (828)665-2492 http://www.ncarboretum.org

Open Studios at Grovewood Gallery

June 6 Asheville, Grovewood Gallery. Grovewood Gallery welcomes art lovers to go behind the scenes and visit Grovewood Studios – several professional artists' studios located next door to the gallery. This event is free and open to the public. Open hours in studios vary depending on the artist. 111 Grovewood Road 828-253-7651

Chimney Rock Park - Work Continues to Exclamation Point

Our trails crew, in partnership with crews from NC State Parks, continues to make progress along the Skyline trail leading to Exclamation Point. So far, they've got about 1/3 of the gravel in place and have completed some of the necessary retaining walls. Remember, the project necessitates that more than 25 tons of gravel and 120 timbers be moved to the work site, and that work site is 2,480 ft. up the side of a mountain.

We hope to have the section of the trail from Devil's Head to Exclamation Point open sometime early this summer. The plan for the rest of the Skyline-Cliff Trail Loop will be considered in State Parks' overall Master Plan for Chimney Rock State Park.

Open Horse Show May 30

May 30 West Jefferson. There will be an Open Horse Show on Saturday, May 30, at the AG Expo Property on Hwy 163 between Hwy 221 and Mt. Jefferson Rd. Many events will be open to both youth and adults beginning at 10 a.m. All proceeds go to Ashe Friends of Agriculture.

Season Kick-Off Event

May 29 West Jefferson. New River Winery invites you to join them on Friday, May 29, 2009 for their Season Kick-Off Event at their official tasting room at Bohemia Gallery located downtown West Jefferson. The event is from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., featuring music by the Lucky Strikes.

Chamber Member BLAST- Avery County

May 28 Avery County. The second Chamber of Commerce Member BLAST – a fun networking and social event to be held at the Club at Jefferson Landing from 5 to 6:30 p.m.! This free event features a large crowd, a 50/50 raffle and plenty of business and social networking opportunities. Don’t miss it! No RSVP – just come on out to Jefferson Landing at 5 p.m. and join the fun!

After-Hours Black Mountain Chamber

May 28 Black Mountain, Black Mountain Inn. Come enjoy the Inn's gracious charm with wine, hors d'oeuvres, live music while networking important business relationships. Located just off Old US 70 past Mobile Medic.

Ken Jones Retirement Party - Bryson City

May 28 Bryson City, Chamber Office. Join us in celebrating the retirement of Ken Jones - our visitor services representative - tomorrow, from the hours of 5-7pm. The festivities will take place at the Chamber office.

Pastels for the Park

June 6-27 Bryson City, The Artists' House Too. An exhibition of 40 pastel paintings by members of the Appalachian Pastel Society to celebrate the 75th birthday of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Opening reception June 6th 6-8 pm at The Artists' House Too, Bryson City. A portion of the sales to benefit the Friends of the Smokies. http://www.theartistshousegallery.com/ 32 Everett Street Bryson City, NC 828-488-1317
artistshousetoo@verizon.net

Sylva's Art After Dark

June 5 Downtown Sylva. An evening of arts, dining, music and good conversation. This event is held the first Friday of the months of May - December in downtown Sylva. itsbynature@earthlink.net (828) 631-3020

Ole Smoky Spring Farm Fest

June 5-6 Maggie Valley. Antque Tractor show, parade. cmaggie@maggievalley.org (828) 627-6372. Maggie Valley Festival Grounds, 3374 Soco Rd.

Music On Main Street Concert Series Begins

June 5 7-9PM Hendersonville. The 11th annual Music On Main Street concert series will be held every Friday evening from June 5 through August 28, 2009. Music On Main Street featuring " oldies rock, beach music, variety and top 40 music. Bring a chair and enjoy the music, admission is free.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Lawn Mower Race

May 30 North Wilkesboro. Mow Down is absolutely a hit with fans of all ages! Suped up riding lawn mowers from 5 to 18 horsepower motors! Get in gear and start your engines! (336) 838-8662

Old Fort Mountain Music

May 29 Old Fort. Every Friday evening for more than a decade, folks have gathered to hear and play bluegrass and traditional mountain music. Nobodys paid, everyones welcome and coffee and sodas are still just a quarter! Friday evenings; 7:00pm; Rockett Building, Main Street in downtown Old Fort; for more information call 1-888-233-6111.

Mountain Sports Festival

May 29-30 Asheville. Pro and amateur atheletes compete in mountain sports. Live music, food, demos at Festival Village. info@mountainsportsfestival.com (828) 251-4029

Donovan Keith live at Zack's Pub

May 29 Little Switzerland. Playing original music on guitar. Zacks Pub is located at Switzerland Cafe and General Store in Little Switzerland. For more information, call 828-765-5289 or visit www.switzerlandcafe.com.

Collective Spirits Wine Festival

May 29-30 Highlands. The Bascoms Collective Spirits wine festival features a grand wine tasting with more than 100 domestic and international wines, silent auction, fare by 12 local chefs, and symposiums by leading U.S. wine specialists, all capped off by a gala seated dinner on the art centers new terrace, followed by a live auction of exceptional wines and special wine-related items. Collective Spirits is the first event at the new Bascom, and all proceeds raise money for the nonprofit visual arts center. For tickets, visit www.collectivespirits.com or call (828) 526-4949.

Tryon Summer Classic

May 28 Tryon. Gorgeous horses compete in many rings with riders of all ages and level of skills. Come out and enjoy a first rate horse show. For more information visit Equus Events www.equusevents.com online or contact JP Godard 803-643-5698.

Live Music & More at The Historic Orchard at Altapass

May 28 Spruce Pine, The Orchard at Alta Pass. Live music and mountain dancing, storytelling and hayrides, monarch butterfly raising, naturalist tours and birding walks, arts and handwork demonstrations, book signings and more. Every week, Wed-Sun. The Orchard is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 328.3.

Bluegrass Music Jam

May 28 7-9PM Marion. Open to all musicians, no scheduled performers. Outdoors (weather permitting), bring chairs or blankets. Free; 7-9pm, Marion Depot, Marion. For more information, call 828-652-2215 or visit www.downtownmarion.org.

Franklin BI-LO Golf Tournament - Charity

Mill Creek Golf Course. 1pm $50 a player/$200 a team.
Contact Brian Melancom or Chris McGuire at the Bi-Lo Store on the Highlands Road by June 1st.
All proceeds donated to the Macon County Carenet .

THE RIVER RUN AT MOUNT MITCHELL - LIVE WITH NATURE.

River Run is an exciting new gated community directly across from the Mount Mitchell Golf Course and five minutes from The Blueridge Parkway. Phase I of River Run with its breath taking views of Mount Mitchell and the beautiful South Toe River will include luxury town homes and condominiums. The planned community amenities include a swimming pool, club house, horseback riding, nature trails, fishing and tennis courts. Features for our luxury homes include granite and stainless kitchens and hardwood floors. Multi acre home sites also available.

Free Family Fun Series at Chimney Rock Park

May 30 2 PM Chimney Rock Park. Chimney Rock's Education Specialist Emily Walker leads a fun and interactive reptile program at Grady's Animal Discovery Den in the Meadows area of the Park. Emily will discuss the kinds of reptiles that live in Chimney Rock and guests will even have a chance to meet some live snakes and turtles.

National Trails & Land Trust Day at Chimney Rock Park

June 6 Chimney Rock. Guided hikes with Park specialists, rock climbing demonstrations (and the opportunity to try it for yourself). Area land trust organizations, hiking associations and other outdoor vendors will also be on hand to share their dedication to preserving and protecting green spaces. Complimentary guided hikes will be offered at 10am, noon and 2pm with Education Specialist Emily Walker. Emily will take guests on the Hickory Nut Falls Trail at 10am. Along the way, she'll help you learn how to identify many of the Park's native trees and plants.

Clay Day + Guild Fair on the Parkway

June 6 10AM - 4PM Asheville, The Folk Art Center. CLAY DAY + Guild Fair on the Parkway at the Folk Art Center features ceramics demonstrations including raku firing, hand building and wheel throwing. The festival also includes craft exhibitors selling their work, live music and regional cuisine. Folk Art Center Milepost 382 Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville, NC 828-298-7928 http://southernhighlandguild.org/

Reception and Four Course Wine Dinner

May 28, 6:30 PM Bryson City, Thirteen Moons Restaurant at the Village. 5 Course Wine Dinner Featuring Cartlidge & Brown Wines of California. $49.99 per person Reservations 828-488-2826

Reception:
Dancing Mandarin Shrimp
Cherohala Honey & Goat Cheese Fondue
Grilled Oysters with Warm Pancetta Dressing
Cartlidge & Brown, Sauvignon Blanc, Dancing Crow Vineyard, 2008

Dinner:
1st Course
Yellowfin Tuna Tartar
Wasabi Aioli, English Cucumbers, Yukon Potato
Cilantro Gribiche
Cartlidge & Brown, Chardonnay, 2007

2nd Course
Muscovy Duck Confit
Smoked Gouda Polenta, Baby Spinach
Black Cherry ~ Merlot Redux
Cartlidge & Brown, Merlot, North Coast, 2006

3rd Course
Chateaubriand of Beef stuffed with Truffled Lobster
Gorgonzola Bread Pudding, Roasted Parsnips
Porcini Mushroom Essence
Cartlidge & Brown, Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles 2007

4th Course
Gold Dusted White Chocolate Key Lime Tart
Housemade-Strawberry Ice Cream
Cartlidge & Brown, Dessert Syrah

12th Annual Black Mountain Arts and Crafts Show

12th annual art & craft festival sponsored by the Old Depot Association.
(828)669-4814
www.craftshow@olddepot.org

Best Dish In NC

Flat Rock, The Backroom at The Flat Rock Wine Shoppe. The Back Room is proud to be one of ten finalists in The Best Dish In North Carolina. We will be serving our nominated dishes the entire month of June. 828-697-6828 www.flatrockwineshoppe.com

Monday, May 25, 2009

SOUL BENEFACTOR Plays at Cayons

June 27 Blowing Rock, CANYONS - 10:00pm SOUL BENEFACTOR No cover. For more info and complete schedule, visit www.canyonsbr.com.

Avery Heritage Festival

June 6 Avery County, Old Cranberry High School. This festival honors the heritage of Avery County including its arts, crafts, authors, food, genealogy, history and music. The Cranberry High School is located on the corner of 19E and 194 in the Cranberry Community. 10 am - 4 pm. 828-765-4787

Gallery Crawl

JUNE – OCT Downtown West Jefferson 5-8PM Gallery Crawl in downtown West Jefferson. Second Friday of each month. Open house in more than 15 art galleries and studios. Ashe County Arts Council: 336-846-2787 jlashearts@skybest.com

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting

May 27 7-9PM Asheville, The Wine Guy North. Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting - Nine full-bodied wines from around the world. Reservations at 828-254-6500. http://www.theashevillewineguy.com/

Dual Personalities: Multifunctional Contemporary Furniture Exhibition

May 25 - August 10 Asheville, Grovewood Gallery. Dual Personalities: Multifunctional Contemporary Furniture - a unique studio furniture exhibition chop full of character. This invitational exhibition will coincide with The Furniture Society’s 2009 conference in Boone, NC and pre-conference tour to Asheville. The exhibit will feature a variety of one-of-a-kind functional pieces, by leading North Carolina furniture makers, that have the common theme of multiple uses. For more information on this event call 828.253.7651 or visit www.grovewood.com.

Center City Art Walk

Jun 05 5-8 PM Asheville, Center City Art Walk. Galleries stay open Friday evenings four times a year to showcase new shows and artists. Walk to 30 galleries downtown. Free. http://www.ashevilledowntowngalleries.org/

Mad Hatter's Tea Party & Garden Tour

May 31 Asheville Legendary Inns are opening their spring gardens for you to tour! Meet the Innkeepers and see the 1st floor of these seven magnificent homes ~ Capping off the event with limited availability, will be the Mad Hatter's Tea Party ~ where a judging for the most creative, funny and beautiful spring hat will take place. http://www.bedandbreakfastasheville.com/

Cherokee Gourd Festival

June 5-7 CHEROKEE. Cherokee Gourd Festival - This event is truly unique! Featuring classes and workshops on all facets of gourd manufacture and design. All this in a fun and lively festival atmosphere. Cherokee Fair Grounds 800-438-1601 http://www.cherokee-nc.com/

First Friday Concert & Livermush Festival

June 5 MARION First Friday Concert & Livermush Festival. Activities include music and a livermush cooking contest. Free; 7-9pm; Main Street, Historic Downtown Marion. For more information, call 828-652-2215.

Artful Living Weekend Seminar

May 29 - 31. Asheville, Grove Park Inn. Join Our State magazine, the North Carolina Arts Council and Handmade in America for an inspiring weekend of designers, artists, and other aesthetic experts in fascinating seminars. $50/day pass for Saturday, weekend passes available. Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa 290 Macon Ave Asheville, NC
Megan Williams 828-252-0121

Saturday, May 23, 2009

81st Annual Tryon Horse Show.

June 3-7 TRYON 81st Annual Tryon Horse Show. Bring a picnic with your lawn chair and enjoy fresh, summer breezes while watching some of the finest equestrian competition in the area. For more information contact Tryon Riding & Hunt Club at 1-800-438-3681

Annual Rose Show

May 30 - 31 ASHEVILLE Annual Rose Show. The Asheville Blue Ridge Rose Society will hold its annual exhibition at The North Carolina Arboretum. Roses of every color and size will be featured during the exhibition. Knowledgeable society members, will be available to provide information about the selection, care and history of these magnificent garden plants. North Carolina Arboretum (828)665-2492 http://www.ncarboretum.org

Rock climbing at Chimney Rock

Rock climbing at Chimney Rock is back and in full swing. Tyler Parker, our new director of climbing operations, has been busy teaching folks from age 6 to 76 the basics of rock climbing. Most every weekend, and many weekdays (weather permitting), you'll find Tyler at the base of Chimney Rock ready to show you the ropes, literally.
We're one, if not the only, place in North Carolina where you can walk up, saddle up (that's get in a harness) and be climbing real rock in a matter of minutes. Tasters, a 15-minute "give it a go," are available most days and no equipment or experience is necessary. You can also book a half- or full-day clinic with Tyler for a more in-depth lesson.

New Makers

June 5 - July 4 Burnsville, The Design Gallery 7 Souith Main Street. This summer Brian Boggs will be curating a show at the Design Gallery in Burnsville, NC. This is an exhibit dedicated to showcasing the work of new woodworkers in the western NC area as well as new work by established makers. Particular focus will be on furniture but accessories are also welcome. Contact Brian for more information, brianboggsstudio@gmail.com

Shadow of the Hills

June 3 - July 7 West Jefferson, Ashe Arts Center. Shadow of the Hills is the annual exhibit by the Blue Ridge Art Clan. Opening reception: June 12,2009 5-8 pm http://www.ashecountyarts.org/gallery.htm

Live Music & More at The Historic

May 24, 27 - Little Switzerland, The Orchard at Alta Pass. Live music and mountain dancing, storytelling and hayrides, monarch butterfly raising, naturalist tours and birding walks, arts and handwork demonstrations, book signings and more. Every week, Wed-Sun. The Orchard is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 328.3.

Benefit Golf Tournament, Dinner, and Will Rogers

June 19-20 Stecoah, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center. . June 19: 7:30am-8:15am Golf Tournament Registration 8:30am- Shotgun start Captain’s Choice Noon – 2pm Lunch and awards ceremony. June 20: Family style fish fry dinner at the Stecoah Kitchen. Dinner seatings at 5:00 and 6:15pm. Reservations required 828-479-3364.
In the historic air conditioned auditorium at 7:30pm, The Will Rogers Now! one man show. This show is a highly entertaining portrait of a gentle American hero, which honors Will Rogers in words, theater and song. Pre-register for golf tournament through June 12, 2009 by calling Stecoah Valley Center at 828-479-3364. Dinner reservations are required and available through June 19, 2009.

Memorial Weekend Events at Fontana Village

May 24 & 25
Enjoy a full slate of activities including live music, events, cook-outs, etc.
800-849-2258
www.fontanavillage.com

Twelve Hours of Tsali- Mountain Cycling

Saturday, May 23
Tsali Recreation Area.
Watch team and solo mountain bikers race for glory in this incredible endurance relay
competition.
Directions:From Robbinsville, travel east on State Highway 143 until you reach the junction with Highway 28. Turn right at the stop sign and proceed south on Highway 28 for approximately 8.4 miles.
800-232-7238, www.noc.com

“Kids in the Kitchen” Culinary Workshop

Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center
Saturday, May 23, 10am – noon
This class series will cover such topics as safety in the kitchen, reading and understanding labels,and preparing and cooking items from each food group.
828-479-3364, www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

Talley Trio in Concert at Holly Springs Baptist Church

May 24 Franklin, Holly Springs Baptist Church. The Talley Trio will be in concert at Holly Springs Baptist Church this Sunday. Come join us as we observe Memorial Day and have the Talley Trio in concert. Singing begins at 9:30 am and continues through morning worship service at 10:45 am. Directions are easy. Just go to http://www.hollyspringsbaptist.org/abouthsbc/findhsbc.asp

Friday, May 22, 2009

Alpine's JumpStart Summer Sale Going on NOW!

Alpine's JumpStart Summer Sale Going on NOW! At Alpine Ski Center, we LOVE our Winter....but we love Summer too! Jump into your Summer the right way with a
$10 OFF Giftcard , good off any purchase of $20 or more. Just go to www.alpineskicenter.com, to have your $10 off giftcard waiting for you at checkout of your local Alpine Ski Center. We have some amazing deals on Sunglasses form Native & Smith, great selection of Swimwear & Sandals, plus Waterskis, Wakeboards, & weekly in-store Disc Golf specials. Alpine has everything to make you look HOT but stay COOL all summer. Come join us, and have a kickin' start to your Summer fun!

Quick Mountain Get-a-Way Special!

May 25 - 31 Flat Rock, Mountain Lodge and Conference Center. Stay any number of nights between May 25-31, 2009 and receive a 25% discount plus a free room upgrade *Only valid for guest stays May 25-31, 2009 and only for new reservations. Guest must mention offer code: 25OFF to receive this offer*

Carl Sandburg Folk Music Festival

25 FLAT ROCK Carl Sandburg Folk Music Festival. The grounds of the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site come alive with folk music which was an important part of Carl Sandburg's life along with his guitar playing and singing as well as his writing. Live entertainment will include instrumentals, folk ballads and spiritual songs. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (828)693-4178

Thursday, May 21, 2009

MILLER'S LAND OF WATERFALL TOURS.

MILLER'S LAND OF WATERFALL TOURS. Let me get you away from the crowded tourist areas and to places you would not be able to go to on your own (no long hikes or rough roads). Ideal for seniors. See 6 to 7 beautiful falls. Most falls are located on private land. Attention photographers. I will make sure, even on bright sunny days, that I will get you to the falls with no sun on them. Bring your wide angle lens because we will be close to them with no obstructions. I do personal tours and personalize them for you. Go to my web site and e-mail me for rates. If you thought you have seen all the falls in Brevard NC area, YOU HAVEN'T!

The Village Square Art & Craft Show

May 23 Highlands, Pine Street Park. The show will feature regional artisans and will include fine art, pottery, baskets, folk art, turned wood, jewelry, furniture, children's apparel, metal craft and more. In addition, Patti Cakes the clown will do face painting. Call Cynthia Strain for more info. at (828) 787-2021 or email: cypicturelady@verizon.net

Stony Knoll Annual Family Festival

May 22-23 Stearns Park, Columbus.Come out and join us for the second year of fun for the family on Memorial Weekend. Rides, games, music, funnel cakes, hot dogs, BBQ hash and more. Live music in the evening. It's at Stearns Park in downtown Columbus beginning 3 pm Friday and all day Saturday. This event is a benefit to raise funds for the Stoney Knoll Community Library. For more information contact Ricky Cummings at (864) 205-6893.

Memorial Day Pow Wow

May 22-23 Cherokee, Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds. A full weekend of native dance, food, arts, crafts, and entertainment - an excellent introduction to the Cherokee culture. 800-438-1601 or chamber@greatsmokies.com

Transylvania Farm Tours

May 30 Transylvania County. Transylvania Farm Tours sponsored by the Transylvania Heritage Coalition, Inc. and Transylvania Farm Bureau will give you a choice of two tours, a Guided Bus Tour and a Self-Guided Tour. For tickets or more information, contact the Transylvania Heritage Museum, 40 W. Jordan St., Brevard, NC, 828-884-2347, heritage@citcom.net.

Spring Tour of Homes

May 30 Brevard. Tour 8 beautiful homes and one historic B & B in Transylvania County that have been chosen for their location, beauty, architecture or décor. Homes are located in downtown Brevard, Straus Park, Glen Cannon, Connestee Falls and Cedar Mountain. The Spring Tour of Homes last from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm. Sponsors include: Audrey Love Charitable Foundation, Marco’s Trattoria, the NC Arts Council and the TC Arts Council. Make your lunch reservations at Marco’s and they will donate a percentage back to TC Arts. Make reservations by calling 883-4841. Marco Trattoria is located at 204 W. Main Street in Brevard. This is a fundraiser for the TC Arts Council and its youth programs. Tickets are $30. Call TC Arts at 828-884-2787 to reserve your tickets today. www.artsofbrevard.org

Kick-Off Party - Spring Tour of Homes

May 29 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Brevard. The night before the tour, Friday May 29 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, TC Arts will host a special fundraiser at the private home of June Baggarly in the Sylvan Habitat. Her home is a 4800 square foot Arts & Crafts home designed by Doug Harris and developed by Paul Fekete. June is an artist, interior designer and antique collector. She has put her special touches on this home. Don’t miss the 20 foot long heart pine store counter from an old general store in Georgia dated 1910. This house was meant to be used for entertaining and June loves to share it. The evening includes: heavy horsd’oeuvres, wine, an art auction and music by Classical Guitarist George Andrews. Tickets to this Kick-Off Party are $50. Call TC Arts at 884-2787 to reserve your tickets today.

Art in Action

May 23 Brevard. Artists from the Transylvania Art Guild will be painting live, outside at Silvermont. Come on out for a while and talk with the artists while they paint. They will have other artworks for viewing and sale. It sure to be a lot of fun for all. There is a rain date for this show on the 30th of May in S. Broad Park by the Library.

4th Friday Gallery Walk Kicks-Off White Squirrel Festival

May 22 Brevard. The Art of Brevard galleries and art spots will host the 4th Friday Gallery Walk on Friday, May 22 from 5:00pm - 9:00pm in downtown Brevard. For more information call TC Arts at 884-2787 or go to www.artsofbrevard.org and click on Art Tours.

FREE Wine Tasting

May 23 Asheville, Hops & Vines. FREE Wine Tasting - Crazy for Carmenere!
One of the most ancient European grape varieties, Carmenere was originally planted in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. It's name is derived from the French word for "crimson", which describes the bright red color of the foliage just prior to leaf fall. Today, it is found scattered around France, but is most widely planted in Chile, where it was mistaken for merlot for many years! 828-252-5275

Free beer tasting

May 22 4-7PM Asheville, Hops & Vines. FREE Beer Tasting this Friday from Dogfish Head Brewing! Festina Peche: A refreshing neo-BerlinerWeisse fermented with honest-to-goodness peaches to (get this!) 4.5% abv! Because extreme beers don't have to be extremely boozy! 90 Minute Ale - Esquire Magazine calls the 90 Minute IPA., "perhaps the best I.P.A. in America." An Imperial I.P.A. brewed to be savored from a snifter. A big beer with a great malt backbone that stands up to the extreme hopping rate. Burton Baton: A blend of oak-aged English strong ale and 90 Minute I.P.A. Citrus notes from Northwestern hops meld with vanilla notes from the oak. 828-252-5275

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

The Lone Ranger

MAY 23- 31 Bryson City, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. New for 2009! Two 2-Day Weekends in May! May 23rd - 24th & 30th - 31st. This exciting event will feature a train robbery and gun fight. Activities and entertainment will be around the Bryson City depot. Departure times will be 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 3:30 pm. Passengers will be on board the train for a one hour and 20 minute adventure. The Lone Ranger and Tonto will ride the train on the return trip passing out silver bullets to children. Ticket price includes admission to the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum! 1-800-872-4681

The Stage Door Auction

June 6 Bryson City Smoky Mountain Community Theatre. Preview at 6:00 PM --- Auction begins at 7:00 PM. Antiques Collectibles - Household items -Box Lots - Books Art - Gift Certificates -Toys and much more! Come on by and help us to continue the improvements and restoration of our community theatre. Recent improvements include lobby refurbishment, painting of the house walls, updates in the restrooms, And there is much more work to be done, so come on out and help support the community theatre. All proceeds to benefit Smoky Mountain Community Theatre. http://www.smctheatre.com/auction.htm

Music in the Mountains- Bryson City

Music in the Mountains
Every Saturday night from June 6th thru Oct 31st
6:30 till 8pm at the Train Depot
828-488-3681
www.greatsmokies.com

Summer Theatre Camp Age 5-16- Brunsville

The Parkway Playhouse and Dance Express offer Summer Theatre Camp
These camp sessions are from 9am-3pm lasting 3 weeks concluding with 2 weekend performances at the Parkway Playhouse.
2 Sessions June 22- July 10 and July 13-July 31.
Cost $225 per child for 3 weeks session and $85 per child for 1 week.
Call Dance Express at 828-682-1493.

Alternative Expo 2009- Bryson City

Alternative Expo 2009
May 22-25 at 33 Byrson Ave.
Come see the talent Western North Carolina has to offer in music along with food, workshops, exhibits, drumming and more!
A silent aution that started May 1st will conclude May 25th with the proceeds going to a local charity.

Boone- Blue Ridge Community Theatre Presents

Dixie Swim Club May 29-31
A play about old friends and written by Trimella Chaney.
Show times 7:30pm 29-30 and 3pm 30-31
Cost is $25.00 and includes play and food.
Order tickets: www.brctnc.org, , Boone Drugs- Deerfield or Broyhill Inn.

Blue Grass Music at the River House- Grassey Creek

Sunday Salon series at the River House continues May 24 with David Haney and Lisa Baldwin, bluegrass, country and singer/song writers.
Music starts at 4pm, with hors d'oeuvres around 5 p.m. and then a chef’s choice menu will be served at 6 p.m.
Visit www.riverhousenc.com
336-982-2109

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Stay & Play! Starting at $99 per night

4-15 to 10-31 West Jefferson, Jefferson Landing. Stay and play at Jefferson Landing in the Blue Ridge mountains, rated 4.5 stars by Golf Digest. $99 rate includes your round of golf, one night stay and breakfast. Three round/two night package for $248. Discounted rates are available for groups of 12 or more. Disclaimer: Rate is per person, based on 2 golfers sharing a Lodge Room, Monday thru Thursday. http://www.visitjeffersonlanding.com/

Summer Golf from $39.00 – Seniors from $28.00!

May 1 - October 31 Fletcher, Broadmoor Golf Links. Summer Golf from $39.00 – Seniors from $28.00. Set among the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina is Broadmoor, the areas only links style course. Enjoy this championship, Certified Audubon golf course sanctuary, that has won numerous regional awards from top 5 courses you can play, best greens, best clubhouse and best practice facility.
http://www.broadmoorlinks.com/index.html

Annual Kiddo Fishing Derby

June 27 Beech Mountain. One of Beech Mountain's annual events that is open to all children ages 4 to 12 (children have adult supervision). This event is free and is sponsored by the member businesses that comprise the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. Prizes and trophies are awarded for boys and girls who catch the first trout, largest trout, heaviest trout, and the first to catch the limit of 4 trout. Just bring your fishing gear and favorite bait. Registration is at 8 am and the derby begins at 9 am. Call the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or(800) 468-5506 for additional information.

Kat Williams Performs at Carolina Theatre

May 23 7:30pm Spruce Pine, Carolina Theatre. Kat Williams performs jazz, R&B, & blues in the Spruce Pine historic theatre. Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.thecarolinabarndance.org or at the following Spruce Pine locations: Mayland Community College, Timberline Properties, Mayland Printing, and Rivers Edge Outfitters. Advance tickets are $15 and $20 at the door. This is event benefits the Carolina Theatre Preservation Association and is sponsored by Mayland Community College.

Parkway Playhouse Opens 63rd Season

May 21 Burnsville, Parkway Playhouse. Starting on May 21, the Parkway Playhouse Box Office will be open for the 2009 Summer Season. The box office will be open from 1pm-5pm Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and one hour before each performance. Season ticket holders will get first pick of all seats to all performances (except First Thursday Preview Performances). Season tickets will be on sale through June 12. You can purchase season tickets securely through our website. Season tickets are $90-$95 and include admission to all six shows PLUS two guest tickets for a total of 8 admissions to all shows in the Parkway Playhouse 2009 Season. THE PARKWAY PLAYHOUSE
PO Box 1432 Burnsville, North Carolina 28714 828-682-4285 www.parkwayplayhouse.com

Bluegrass Series

May 21 Flat Rock, The Backroom at the Flat Rock Wine Shop. Our Bluegrass series continues with Brushfire Stankgrass 8:30pm www.myspace.com/brushfirestankgrass. 828-697-6828 www.flatrockwineshoppe.com

Bus Tour of Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site

May 30 Near Asheville. Join the Exploring Joara Foundation and archaeologists Dr. David Moore (Warren Wilson College) and Dr. Tony Boudreaux (East Carolina University) on a tour of Town Creek Indian Mound and learn about the mound building Indians of the central Piedmont of North Carolina. While at Town Creek, participants will hear a lecture from Dr. Boudreaux, and tour the museum and the reconstructed site including the palisades, mound and temple, and mortuary buildings with Drs. Boudreaux and Moore.

The cost of the tour is $60 per person or $45 for members of the Exploring Joara Foundation. Participants can catch the bus at Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa or in Morganton. Seats are limited. To reserve your spot on the tour, please send a $25 deposit to the Exploring Joara Foundation, PO Box 296, Morganton, NC 28680.

For tour schedule information or questions please contact David Moore at Warren Wilson College ( 828-771-2013) or Rachel Ammons at The Exploring Joara Foundation (828-439-2463). For more information on Town Creek see http://www.nchistoricsites.org/town/Town.htm.

Day in the Life of Asheville

May 22-23 Asheville. A Day in the Life of Asheville photo project is back for another year, and invites anyone with a camera to participate. This year, photographers will hit the streets beginning at noon on and will shoot until 11:59 p.m. May 23 for the spring 2009 edition of DITLO Asheville. The event is aimed at getting the community involved in artful photography, but you don't need to be a professional shutterbug with an expensive camera to participate. Anyone can get involved. All you need is any working camera, a flickr account, and access to Asheville. http://ditlo.org/

THE SMOKIES MOST EXTREME ADVENTURE

May 23 Bryson City. Smoky Mountain Jet Boats is kicking off the 2009 on May 23 season by offering a challenging alternative to the present “combo trip” of a hike, lunch, and jet boat ride adventure. The “EXTREME HIKE COMBO TRIP” will premier May 18on the summit of Clingman’s Dome –6,643 ft. - the second highest peak on the East
Coast. The hike will take you through some of the most biologically diverse areas on earth, being an International Biosphere and a World Heritage Site, every thing about
this hike is extreme. Call Smoky Mountain Jet Boats for more information:
888.900.9091 www.needmore.com

Monday, May 18, 2009

Carolina Mountain Golf Open

May 29-30 Whittier, Smoky Mountain Country Club. Carolina Mountain Golf Open, 36 Hole, Individual Stroke Play (flighted). OVER $5,000 in PRIZES including golf packages at Pinehurst, Grandover Resort and Myrtle Beach $150/person entry fee includes golf, meals, contests, range balls & prizes. To sign up or for more information call 828-497-7622

Gallery Exhibit: Art Unleashed - Art About Animals

May 22 5PM - 9PM Brevard, TC Arts Council. Artist reception for TC Arts Council Exhibit, Art Unleashed featuring artwork about animals in many mediums. Enjoy painting, photography, clay, sculpture and much more from May 4 through June 5. 349 S. Caldwell Street Brevard, NC. For more information call 828-884-2787

Wayne "The Train" Hancock with The Trainwreks

May 31 7PM Asheville, Grey Eagle. Wayne has been called "the master of Hillbilly swing," a "roots Renaissance man," a "country singer's country singer" and "Hank Williams meets Gershwin." But the phrase most frequently echoed throughout his career is "Wayne Hancock is the real deal." ickets: $10 advance/$12 day of show

Asheville Lyric Opera at the Hayes Performing Arts Center

June 21 Blowing Rock Hayes Performing Arts Center. Revue of songs from famous operas. Special Father's Day performance. $32 / $26 student / $40 VIP. The Hayes Performing Arts Center is located at 152 Jamie Fort Road (off Hwy 321), Blowing Rock, NC Tel:828-295-9627.

Tourism Town Hall meeting

May 20 5:00 pm Black Mountain, the Public Library (105 Dougherty Street). BCTDA is hosting these meetings in hopes of getting feedback from residents and business leaders. Join BCTDA members and Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau staff at the for light refreshments and a brief presentation highlighting the mission of the BCTDA, marketing initiatives and the economic impact of tourism will begin, followed by input from the public.

Beech Mountain 5 Mile Run

June 6 - Banner Elk, Beech Mountain. After the tremendous success of the inaugural Cool 5Mile Run it is returning for a second year. Last years event drew over 200 participants. Choose between the 5 mile race or a shorter route throughout Beech Mountain's gorgeous scenery and cool temperatures or come up and cheer on your friends and family. Call the Chamber of Commerce for more information (800) 468-5506.

Father's Day Special at Chimney Rock

June 20 - 21 Chimney Rock Park. Treat dad to a getaway to Chimney Rock Park for Father's Day. Why not get him to try rock climbing too? Purchase one regularly-priced adult ticket and recieve one complimentary adult ticket. YOU MUST PRINT OUT THIS COUPON AND PRESENT IT AT THE TICKET PLAZA WHEN PURCHASING YOUR TICKETS. *Not valid with other discounts. One coupon per vehicle. Offer valid June 14 and 15 only.

Smoky Mountain Country Club Benefit Golf Tournament

June 19-20 Stecoah. Smoky Mountain Country Club Benefit Golf Tournament and
Dinner & Will Rogers Show at Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center. Hole sponserships available. Entry Fee: $75 per player (registration is 7:30am-8:15am) Captain’s Choice, Shotgun start at 8:30am Awards ceremony after tournament on site Mulligans: $5 (allows shot re-do) Green tee: $5 (allows hit from forward tee) Putting contest: $5 per player Raffle: $5 per chance. Proceeds benefit the Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center.

Sunday, May 17, 2009

THIS WEEK'S SIMPLE SUPPERS from Jer's Kitchen

May 18-23 Franklin, Jer's Kitchen.
FLYING BISCUIT'S VEGETABLE COBBLER
A satifying blend of vegetables including Potatoes, Celery, Carrots, Onions & Turnips baked in a flaky homemade crust. For 2 people: $9.95, For 4 people: $16, For 8 people: $30
LEMON CHICKEN
Sauteed Chicken Breast braised in Lemon Juice, Capers, Chicken Stock, & Shitake Mushrooms, served over Fettuccini. For 2 people: $10.95, For 4 people: $20, For 8 people: $38

PLUS, we always have side items and desserts available upon request!

May Is The Month For Strawberry-Lovers

May - Bryson City. With supermarket strawberries available year ’round, it’s easy to forget the taste of fresh-picked, locally-grown berries. But May is the time to enjoy the real thing.

In the Bryson City area, two local growers have fields where you can pick your own or purchase containers of freshly-picked berries. Above, Brynnae Rhinehart of Bryson City samples a berry at Darnell Farms, just east of Bryson City on Highway 19. The other is Shelton Family Farm on Thomas Valley Road in Whittier.

Products made from locally-grown berries are also appearing on Bryson City’s retail shelves. Molly Shaw is an elementary school teacher whose award-winning strawberry jam is available at the Cottage Craftsman and the Fryemont Inn. And an area winery, Calaboose Cellers, uses local berries in their “Up The River” strawberry-rhubarb wine, which is served onboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad excursions, and is available at the Cottage Craftsman.

SPArty at Shoji

Every Wednesday Night - Asheville, Shoji Spa & Lodge. Music on the deck 7-10pm, complimentary libations, snacks and deep woods hot tubs. Enjoy our rejuvenating escape with a new twist. Receive tours of Shoji Spa & Lodge and relax at our mountain retreat. Soak in the Moment...

www.shojiretreats.com
828-299-0999

Mid-week Golf Special

May - Lake Toxaway, Greystone Inn. Complimentary Golf Greens Fees! During the middle of the week throughout May, enjoy complimentary golf greens fees on the fabulous and newly re-designed Kris Spence signature golf course at The Lake Toxaway Country Club. Viewed by many as one of the finest golf courses in Western North Carolina, Spence used his strong background in Alister McKenzey, Donald Ross and Ellis Maples to create an inviting set of links. Cart fee not included. Call 1-800-824-5766 and make your reservation today and schedule your tee times.

Memorial Day Weekend - Buy Two Nights - Get One Night FREE!

May Lake Toxaway, Greystone Inn. Anytime throughout the month of May, we have a vacation package that is hard to beat. Purchase any three consecutive nights and we'll add on two more nights for FREE!. Take advantage of 5 days playing in our beautiful mountain lake backyard. Enjoy golf, tennis, mountain bikes, regulation croquet, and more. Rates vary depending on season. Call our reservation professional for more details.

Call 1-800-824-5766 and make your reservation today. Offer does not apply to Romance, Spa or Vacation package. Cannot be combined with other special offers or discounts

National Trails & Land Trust Day

June 6 Chimney Rock Park. Join us for guided hikes with Park specialists, rock climbing demonstrations (and the opportunity to try it for yourself). Area land trust organizations, hiking associations and other outdoor vendors will also be on hand to share their dedication to preserving and protecting green spaces.

Plus, we're very excited to have Danny Bernstein give a presentation and sign copies of her new book Hiking North Carolina's Blue Ridge Heritage.

The book lists 66 day hikes, ranging in length from 1 to 13 miles. Each one includes everything you need to know to get out on the trail: clear maps and detailed directions, mileage and elevation gain, trail highlights, fees and hiking regulations, and even books and movies related to each hike location. The new guide also includes three auto tours with shorter walks.

Grovewood Gallery - Meet the Maker

May 23 11AM - 3PM Asheville, Grovewood Gallery. Meet the Maker – Glass Artist Carl Powell at Grovewood Gallery Grovewood studio artist, Carl Powell, will be in the gallery from 11am - 12pm and 2pm - 3pm to answer questions about his work and discuss his techniques and inspiration. Examples of Carl's glass sculptures and stained glass will be on display and available for sale. Commissions and custom pieces are welcome. 111 Grovewood Road 828-253-7651

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Wildflower Watch at Chimney Rock Park

June 1 - July 31 Chimney Rock, Chimney Rock Park. Wildflowers bloom in abundance in the Park and throughout the area. A brief listing of some of the plants, trees and shrubs to look for in and around Chimney Rock Park and our surrounding area in the summer include: Turk's cap lily, fire-pinks, milkweed, phlox, hypericums and sourwood.

Michael Cooper at Hayes Performing Art Center

June 13 at 10am Blowing Rock, Hayes Performing Art Center.
An eye-popping visual artist and virtuoso mime whose exquisite performances have dazzled audiences for almost 30 years, Cooper's one-man extravaganza combines his breathtaking handcrafted masks, original stories of courage and wonder, outlandish stilt dancing and a physical repertoire that ranges from the madcap to the sublime. Special 10am family performance.
$20 / $14 student. The Hayes Performing Arts Center is located at 152 Jamie Fort Road (off Hwy 321), Blowing Rock, NC Tel:828-295-9627

Friday, May 15, 2009

Busy Weekend in Black Mountain

May 15 - 16. Black Mountain:

Saturday 9am till 2pm " Value Our Valley" Business,Job and Health Fair, Win $1200 Hand Made Rocking Chair by Local Artist John Foreman.. many other door prizes, hambuger and Hot Dogs. At Owen Middle School on Old US 70.Free

Fourth Annual Black Mountain Garden Show and Sale 9AM-5PM On Sutton Avenue next to the Depot demonstrations and things for the kids to do.Free

Saturday White Horse Hear Bob Hinkle co Owner and singer, sonwriter poet, recording artist, executive producer, record company President 8 PM $10 www.whitehorseblackmountain.com

Live Music also at Town Pump
Pisgah Brewing, Watershed and Beacon Pub

Sunday "Black Mountain Meet and Greet" at Town Pump 1pm-4pm

Date Night at the Chef's Table

May 24 5PM - 9PM Waynesville, The Chef's Table at The Classic Wine Cellar. Dinner for two includes soup or salad, entree and desert all for $50 per couple!. Nestled unassumingly on a side street in downtown Waynesville, North Carolina, the legendary Chef’s Table restaurant is a celebration of the best wine country cuisine in the Great Smoky Mountains. 30 Church Street, Waynesville,
North Carolina info@classicwineseller.com
FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 828-452-6210

Member BLAST!

May 28 5PM - 6:30 PM West Jefferson, Jefferson Landing. The 2nd “Member BLAST!” This is a unique networking and social event (at no charge) for Chamber members and their guests. The 1st “Member BLAST!” in April was a success with 70+ people in attendance! Several Chamber members bring door prizes to be given away through a drawing. Everyone can participate in the “50/50” drawing for cash – split 50% to the winning ticket holder & 50% to the Chamber! Tickets for the “50/50” drawing are: $1 per ticket; or $5 for 6 tickets, or $10 for 12 tickets. There will be free hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic drinks, along with a cash bar for alcoholic drinks. And there is plenty of opportunity for networking with your fellow Chamber members. Come and Enjoy!

Craig Morgan Free Concert

May 16, 7:30pm Cherokee, Harrah's Hotel. Craig Morgan to Perform Free Concert at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino & Hotel Free Admission This free concert will kick off the final festivities of the casino’s annual “$100,000 Fishing Challenge”. 800-HARRAHS, www.harrahs.com

Kid’s Day America

May 16, 12 – 3pm Bryson City. Kid’s Day America presented by Smoky Mountain Chiropractic
This event focuses on kid’s only fun – for the child in all of us! All proceeds to benefit the Western Carolina Pregnancy Care Center Camp Living Water, West Deep Creek Road, 828-488-9033

“First Baptist of Ivy Gap”

May 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 25, 7:30pm Bryson City. Smoky Mountain Community Theatre presents “First Baptist of Ivy Gap” This award – winning play spans 25 years and portrays laughter, comfort, forgiveness, and redemption through the stories of six women planning anniversary celebrations for their church. www.smctheatre.com

Strawberry Jam Festival

May 15 ~ 4:30 – 9:30pm, Saturday, May 16 ~ 9am – 9:30pm. Darnell Farms presents the Strawberry Jam Festival - Free Admission. Full of family atmosphere and activities, this annual event incorporates traditional music and local artisans, great food, and more for a real “treat”!
Darnell Farms, Hwy. 19 N, 828-488-2376

Open Mic Night at Mountain Perks

May 15 6-8PM Bryson city, Mountain Perks. Open Mike Night Free Admission featuring great coffee and food – and all sorts of fun! Mountain Perks, 828-488-9561

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Warblers! at Chimney Rock Park

May 17 9AM - noon. Chimney Rock Park. Dozens of species of warblers live and breed in the Park. Join birding expert Simon Thompson to see or hear all these species, including Worm-eating, Swainson’s, Black-and-white, Hooded and Yellow-throated. Ages 10 and up. $19; $3 for Annual Passholders; $8 for ages 6-15; free for Grady’s Kids Club Members.

Ben Sollee at Grey Eagle

May 23 8:00 PM Asheville, Grey Eagle Music Hall. Ben's unique performance experience and creative vision trump his 24 years and traditional classical training; he is poised to emerge as a solo artist, bridging genres and demographics with earnest and dynamic songwriting. However, the single most salient quality of Learning to Bend, is Ben's contagiously optimistic worldview. Ben is not just expressing his personal quest for flexibility, he is asking the entire country to learn to bend, learn how to cry, learn how to see the sun rise...

Box office information: When available, advance tickets can be purchased after 5pm any night The Grey Eagle is open. Please visit our website for our calendar of scheduled events, or call 828-232-5800.

Open House - Log Homes

Chestnut Cove, located in the beautiful southern Appalachians, is an authorized dealer for Golden Eagle Log Homes. Come see our model home in Western North Carolina -- and while you are here, tour beautiful Transylvania County, land of waterfalls. Also, check out the waterfalls at nearby Gorges State Park. You may want to build your own Golden Eagle Log Homes right here in Western Carolina. Chestnut Cove can help that happen. Golden Eagle Log Homes provides the most complete package for building both log and hybrid timber frame homes.

Flea Market Fund Raiser

May 23 8AM - 1 PM Brevard. The Brevard Orchestra Association is having a flea market on on the front lawn of the Transylvania Community Arts Council. All are welcome.

Fritz Merrell Memorial Golf Tournament

May 15 1:30 PM Brevard, Sherwood Forest. Sherwood Forest is hosting the Fritz Merrell Memorial Golf Tournament. Open to Anyone-Proceeds Benefit Transylvania Youth Association-Contact: Brian Lautenschlager 884-7825

Featured Homesite - Alarka Highlands

New homes and Home sites in Bryson City. Lot 68 - Waterfalls and 50 Mile Views Recently appraised at $ 286,000, this 3.6 acre home site has been reduced to $ 175,000 through May 31, 2009. Lot 68 features stunning 50 mile views and has its own private waterfall. The homesite is just minutes from the clubhouse and fitness center. 1-877-504-0005

Thirteen Moons Chef’s Specials

May 15-17, 2009  Bryson City, Thirteen Moons Restaurant at the Village. This weekend's Chef's Specials:

Friday, May 15th
Appetizer

Hummus Trio with Tri-Color Chips Black bean, roasted red pepper ~ garlic and lemon herb dips

Entrée
Grilled Mahi Mahi with melted tomatoes, basil, shaved parmesan, herb buttered linguini and broccolini

The Pastry Chef’s Creation

Individual Boston Cream Pie
Saturday, May 16th
Appetizer

Scallop Ceviche Bruschetta marinated delicate jumbo scallops on crusty bread

Entrée

Rib Eye Steak Pizziola Rib eye steak covered with sautéed peppers, tomatoes, onions and fresh mozzarella

The Pastry Chef’s Creation

Individual Boston Cream Pie
Sunday Brunch Buffet, May 17th $11.95 per person – 10:30am – 2:30pm
This Brunch featuring:

Atlantic
Smoked Salmon and Bagel Bar with Capers, Red Onion and Cream Cheese
Fresh Seasonal Fruit and a Selection of Gourmet Salads

Omelet Station made to order by our Chef

Danish Pastries and Muffins

Thirteen Moons Warm Breakfast Specialty

A Fantastic Soup du Jour

Gourmet Pasta Entrée with our Authentic Italian Sauce

Carving Station featuring a Freshly Prepared Family Roast

Vegetable and Potatoes

Sensational Homemade Dessert Buffet Children 5-11, $6.95 ~ 4 and under FREE
828-488-2826
Visit our website at www.ncvc.com

Shear Madness

June 10-28. Blowing Rock, The Hayes Performing Arts Center. Shear MadnessThe longest-running play in American Theatre. More than 8 million people around the world have seen Shear Madness, an uproarious salon-set whodunit where the audience gets to solve the crime. A mixture of improvisation and up-to-the-minute spontaneous humor, the play, which Time magazine calls "one of the best-kept successes in show business," incorporates the latest media scandals and local news items. Plus, since the audience plays sleuth, Shear Madness is delightfully different every time you see it. 828-295-9627 or www.hayescenter.org Hayes Performing Arts Center is located at 152 Jamie Fort Road (off Hwy 321), Blowing Rock, NC

Lonesome River Band at Hayes Performing Arts Center

May 16 7:30 PM Blowing Rock. Celebrating 26 years as one of bluegrass music's most popular and influential acts, the current incarnation of the famous quintet, packed with Sammy Shelor's driving banjo, returns to the Hayes Center by popular demand. The winner of HayesGrass will serve as the opening act. $20 / $14 student. boxoffice@hayescenter.org

Hayes Performing Arts Center | 152 Jamie Fort Road, (off Hwy 321) | Blowing Rock | NC | 28605

Alpine Ski Center Summer Sale

May 15 to June 15 Banner Elk, Alpine Ski Center. Jump Start Summer SALE...Hurry in Now! At Alpine Ski Center, we LOVE our Winter....but we love Summer too! Jump into your Summer the right way with a $10 OFF Gift card, good off any purchase of $20 or more. Just click above or go to www.alpineskicenter.com to have your $10 off giftcard waiting for you at checkout of your local Alpine Ski Center. We have some amazing deals on Sunglasses, Swimwear, Sandals, Waterskis, Wakeboards, & Disc Golf.

Asheville: Family Farm Tour

June 27-28 1-6PM Asheville, Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project.Visit farms and gardens throughout Western North Carolina. Discover more about Western North Carolina’s local food movement and agricultural history with the Family Farm Tour from the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) and its partners. Purchase a button for admission for $20, plus $2 shipping at www.familyfarmtour.org. One button admits everyone in your car. You may also purchase buttons at participating farms on the day of the tour for $25. Gather your friends, fill a car, choose the farms you want to visit and plan a route. There are more than enough locations to fill a schedule for Saturday and Sunday.

Come with a cooler and your appetite. A variety of vegetables and fruits, trout, beef, pork, lamb, eggs, artisan cheeses, herbs, mushrooms, honey and preserves are available to sample or for sale. Watch animals such as bison, llamas, baby lambs and bunnies.

See traditional skills in practice—and even try them out yourself! Demonstrations include border collie shepherding, outdoor apple butter making, milking, maple syrup tapping and wool spinning.

Learn about new ideas during a tour of renewable energy systems. See a hydroponics system, visit an edible landscape and explore a garden labyrinth. Eat bread fresh from a wood-fired oven, savor artisan ice cream and stop for a picnic at one of the many beautiful farms along the way.

Beer Y'all Documentary Showing

May 21 9PM Asheville Pizza & Brewing. In July 2008, seven friends assembled to tour 27 microbreweries and brewpubs from the mountains to the coast in North Carolina. Beer Y'all is a documentary that follows their nine days of hanging out with brewers, partying at rock shows, and drinking many, many beers as they celebrate friendship, music, and a Southern microbrewing explosion. Get your tickets at Hops & Vines for only $5! ($10 at the door) 828-252-5275

Free Wine Tasting

May 16 Asheville, Hops and Vines. Wines of Italy: Join Jessica on a tour of Italy this weekend and taste 2 whites and 2 reds:

Masciarelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo – From a much loved producer, this summer sipper is bright and clean!
Bidoli Tocai Fruilano, Friuli – Pinot Grigio lovers take note! Fresh minerality and green fruit dominate this yummy wine!
Terre di Sole Sangiovese, Daunio – Unadulterated Sangiovese with cherry and spice! Perfect everyday dinner wine.
Cusumano Nero d’Avola, Sicilia – Often referred to as the Syrah of Italy, Nero d’Avola is full, ripe, earthy and peppery. This is a shop favorite! 828-252-5275

Free beer tasting

May 15 4-7 PM Asheville, Hops and Vines. La Folie Wood-Aged Biere, is New Belgium's original wood-conditioned beer, resting in French Oak barrels between one and three years before being hand bottled, numbered and corked for your enjoyment. Mothership Wit New Belgium's first organically-produced beer, Mothership Wit Organic Wheat Beer elevates the zesty Wit or White beers of Belgium. 1554 Enlightened Black Ale uses a light lager yeast strain and dark chocolaty malts to redefine what dark beer can be. 828-252-5275

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

New River Winery offers tastings and winery tours

May 16 West Jefferson New - River Winery,located at the Old Lansing School, invites you to visit the patio bar for wine tastings and tours of the winery. Enjoy a glass of wine and take in a bit of local history and culture. Taste the variety of local wines available from New River and select your favorite wine for a gift or special occasion. The bar is open on Saturdays from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m,(weather permitting). You can also taste and enjoy New River wines at Bohemia Gallery located downtown West Jefferson open Monday through Saturday.

Chimney Rock Park News

We hosted more than 1,300 of you at our 54th Annual Easter Sunrise Service, over 800 kids for our Earth Day programs and nearly 150 dogs (and their well-behaved people) at our 5th Annual Bark in the Park.

The climbing tower in the Meadows provided some fun and exhilarating exercise in the fresh air during our recent Spring Boy Scout Day. This weekend we will be hosting a special day for the Girl Scouts which also includes climbs up the 32-foot tower.

Early spring rains have made Hickory Nut Falls a sight to see. The wildflowers and trees are blooming and budding and the animals are out and about. Come on out to the Park and see for yourself!

Our trails crew, in partnership with crews from NC State Parks, continues to make progress along the Skyline trail leading to Exclamation Point. So far, they've got about 1/3 of the gravel in place and have completed some of the necessary retaining walls.

We hope to have the section of the trail from Devil's Head to Exclamation Point open sometime early this summer.

The 8th Annual Yadkin Valley Wine Festival

May 16 - Mount Airy. Come taste the wines of the Yadkin Valley! The Yadkin Valley Wine Festival ® is open to the public, including families with children (for your safety and the safety of others, please leave your pets at home). Craft vendor displays and music will take place adjacent to the wine tasting area. There will be a roving Bacchus and activities for the youngsters. Entertainment for the 2009 Festival will commence with music by the Natty Bo Duo from 11a.m. through 12:30p.m. Big Daddy Love will play from 1p.m. through 2:30p.m. Between music there will be a grape stomp for the kids in attendance and some other special events. Headliner band Legends of Beach (with Jackie Gore) will perform from 3:00 until 6:00p.m. Food and non-wine beverages will be available for purchase from selected vendors. For more info visit http://www.yvwf.com/.

VOICE OF THE BLUE RIDGE

May 16 - Mount Airy The Carolina Travelers. 336-786-7998 or 800-286-6193. Tour Buses and Group Tours Welcome! Downtown Cinema Theatre, $10/$5 Surry County Residents, or Season Pass The Carolina Travelers host special guests Backstep with Chester McMillian, Nick McMillian and Kelley Breiding. For More information please visit: www.surryarts.org

SHELTON VINEYARDS SUMMER SERIES

May 16 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Shelton Vineyards, Mount Airy Featuring: Jim Quick and Coastline. Purchase your tickets in advance for $25. Tickets purchased at the gate or the day of the concert will be $30. Advance tickets will be mailed up to one week before the concert. Advance tickets may be picked up at the winery until the Friday before the concert until 6pm. Tickets will always be available at the gate for $30 on the day of concert. For More information please visit: www.sheltonvineyards.com or call (336) 366-4724

Mount Airy Summer Concert Series

May 15 - 7:30 PM at the Blackmon Amphitheatre located across from The Andy Griffith Playhouse. Featuring Live Music from: Sea Cruz - Admission is $10.00. For More Information please visit www.surryarts.org or call 336-786-7998.

River House Sunday Salons are back!

May 17 West Jefferson. River House Country Inn and Restaurant will get their Sunday Salons music series going again on May 17th with Steve and Ruth Smith renowned hammer dulcimer and guitar players. The music starts at 4pm, hors d'oeuvres passed around 5 p.m., more music until 6 p.m., and then a chef’s choice menu will be served starting around 6 p.m. Come on out and enjoy a rocking chair on the front porch, great music and outstanding food. Visit the website at www.riverhousenc.com.

Open House at The Hardwood Company this week

May 14-15 West Jefferson, The Hardwood Company, 214 South Jefferson Avenue is hosting an Open House and special sale tomorrow and Friday, May 14 and 15, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wine and Cheese Reception

May 14, from 5-7PM Black Mountain Center for The Arts in celebration of The Black Mountain Community Endowment Fund 10th anniversary. All Black Mountain Chamber Members are invited!

Free Honeymoon Suite!

The Mountain Lodge and Conference Center in Flat Rock is offering a FREE Honeymoon Suite. Book your wedding with the Mountain Lodge on or before December 31, 2009 and we will give you a free honeymoon suite on the night of your wedding.
*Free suite is one night only, and can not be traded to another guest in the party or used for a credit. Couple must mention offer code: FreeSuite.* At the Mountain Lodge, we know that when it comes to celebrating the most important day of your life, nothing but perfection will do. From rehearsal dinners, to the wedding ceremony, and the reception, our caring professionals will create the flawless event you have dreamed about since you were a little girl. Whether you envision a lavish reception or an intimate ceremony, we will provide a venue brimming with romance and elegance

Tailgate Jamboree

May 22-23 Cherokee. Chrome crunching monster trucks, mud trucks, ATVs, hot rods, and low-riders mean super-charged fun for adrenaline junkies across the southeast at the first ever Tailgate Jamboree at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds. The world’s most notorious monster truck, Grave Digger, will be on display at the Extreme Off-Road Expo along with dozens of rigs competing for trophies and prizes.

The 10th Annual "Cruise the Smokies"

May 15 - 17 Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds, Cherokee. The Spring Rod Run hits the road for a breathtaking drive through the world’s oldest mountain range. Thousands of car enthusiasts from across the southeast descend upon the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds for this late spring tradition to compete for $10,000 in prizes and cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway and country roads surrounding Cherokee, N.C.

"Unto These Hills" Opens 60th season

June 5 Cherokee. The world famous outdoor drama "Unto These Hills" has chronicled the history of the Cherokee Indians and entertained more than six million visitors since it first opened in 1950, and this year the drama opens its 60th season on June 5 in the newly renovated Mountainside Theatre. SPECIAL: 2 Children's tickets FREE with the purchase of an Adult ticket. Offer not available online, please call 1-866-554-4557 to purchase.

Boone: Open House and Customer Appreciation Day

May 15 11AM-4PM Appalachian Energy, 190 Poplar Grove Road (off Rivers St) Boone. BBQ lunch 11:30 - 2:00. SALE - end of season closeouts, gas logs and heaters, HUGE discounts up to 50% off. 20 LB cylinder refills $10! Product demonstrations, door prizes and more. 828-262-3637

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Little Switzerland: Grant Sparks live at Zack's Pub

May 16 Playing original rock with a mountain twist. Zacks Pub is located at Switzerland Cafe and General Store in Little Switzerland. For more information, call 828-765-5289 or visit www.switzerlandcafe.com.

Blowing Rock: Art in the Park

May 16 10AM - 5 PM Blowing Rock. A juried arts and craft show featuring 100 artists.

Maggie Valley: A Salute to Elvis & Country Legends

May 16 7:30 PM Eaglesnest, Maggie Valley. Eddie Miles and his salute to country legends. Visit website to purchase tickets. (828) 926-9658 info@eaglenestnc.com

6th Annual Saluda Arts & Music Festival

May 16 Saluda. The Town of Saluda celebrates the talent of more than 50 local artists and crafts people from Western North Carolina and the Upstate of South Carolina. (828) 749-2581

The Sounds of Romance

May 15 8PM Wilkesboro. Featuring The Lettermen & The Association. Their number one hits Never My Love, Wendy, and Cherish have achieved standard status, receiving almost as much airplay today as they ever have. The Lettermens first single for Capitol, The Way You Look Tonight, succeeded on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart, and their next, When I Fall in Love, reached the Top 10 in late 1962. With such talent from two groups, we can assure you that this final performance of the Walker Centers 25th Anniversary Season will be one everyone will be talking about! (336) 838-6260

Tryon: Progressive Show Jumping

May 15-17 Tryon. Stadium jumping is a highly diverse sport, involving a wide range of jumping classifications which differ in how high (or low) the jumps are set, how many jumps make up the course, and whether it is the performance of horse, or rider, or both that is being judged. Come and see horses and riders in action. Spectators welcome.For information contact Rick Cram 803-649-3505 www.psjshows.com

Old Fort Mountain Music

May 15 7PM Old Fort. Every Friday evening for more than a decade, folks have gathered to hear and play bluegrass and traditional mountain music. Nobodys paid, everyones welcome and coffee and sodas are still just a quarter! Friday evenings; 7:00pm; Rockett Building, Main Street in downtown Old Fort; for more information call 1-888-233-6111.

Marion: NC Gold Festival

May 15-16 Marion. Annual event, featuring gold exhibits, gold mining techniques and demonstrations, treasure and scavenger hunts, geo-caching, gold panning, numerous vendors including arts and crafts, raffles, Friday night Gold Tales and gospel concert at 6:00 p.m. with Purpose, The Blairs and Glory Land Way Quartet as well as local bands. Saturday music includes The Cant Hardly Play Boys and Nashville recording artist Juleigh Ed returns. Music, food and fun at Tom Johnsons Rally Park, Marion. For more information, visit www.ncgold.org or call 800-959-9033.

Cherokee Spring Rod Run

May 15-17 Cherokee. Pre '72s and highly modified cars, trucks and motorcycles. $15,000 prize money. Children's games on Saturday. Vendors. janiwild@nc-cherokee.com

Tryon: BMW Charity Pro Am Golf Tournament at Bright's Creek Golf Club

May 15-16 Tryon Area. Bright's Creek Golf Club, located near Tryon, in Mill Spring, will host the first three rounds of the 2009 BMW Charity Pro-Am golf tournament. This annual event attracts world-class celebrities, plus a host of fans and spectators. Each year, many charitable organizations in North and South Carolina receive funding through the BMW Charity Pro-Am. Join us for two glorious days of golf in a gorgeous mountain setting. For more information on the tournament call (864) 297-1660 or visit the BMW Charity Golf website. Call for ticket prices

Marion: Bluegrass Music Jam

May 14 7-9PM Marion. Open to all musicians, no scheduled performers. Outdoors (weather permitting), bring chairs or blankets. Free; 7-9pm, Marion Depot, Marion. For more information, call 828-652-2215 or visit www.downtownmarion.org.

Asheville Wins East Coast Title for Beer City USA

Over the past month, more than 16,000 craft beer enthusiasts from 46 countries cast votes for “Beer City U.S.A.” in an online poll posted by founder of the American Homebrewers Association Charlie Papazian on www.Examiner.com. With roughly 30% of votes each, the top honor of Beer City U.S.A. was ultimately split between two cities--Portland, Oregon on the west coast (an epicenter of American brew culture with more than 30 breweries) and, unexpected underdog, Asheville! The vote results coincide with American Craft Beer Week, May 11 – 17, a national celebration highlighting the culture and contributions of craft beer.

Rutherfordton: HUGE TAnner Warehouse Sale

May 13 - 17 Tanner Warehouse, Rutherfordton off Hwy. 221 on Rock Road. Time to put the clothes you coveted in YOUR closet. Huge selection of styles under $39. Special gift for the first 50 customers on May 13.

Flat Rock: Spanish Wine Dinner

May 26 Flat Rock, The Backroom at The Flat Rock Wine Shoppe. We are proud to announce our first wine dinner since opening our full service restaurant. This dinner will include Spanish food by our great chef Ally, and Spanish wines. Aperitif at 5:30, with dinner starting promptly at 6:00pm. Just $40.00 per person, tax and gratuity included.
Reservations required, limited to 25 people, so reserve your place at the table soon! Flat Rock Wine Shoppe
2702 Greenville Highway, Suite C
Flat Rock, NC 28731
828-697-6828
e-mail: flatrockwine@gmail.com

Franklin: Jer's Weekly Specials

May 11- 16 Franklin, Jer's Kitchen. Take it easy tonight. We've got dinner waiting for you. THIS WEEK'S SIMPLE SUPPERS:

QUICHE LORRAINE
The Classic dish with Onions steeped in White Wine, Bacon & Aged Swiss Cheese baked to perfection. For 2 people: $9.95, For 4 people: $16, For 8 people: $30

ALTERNATIVE MEATLOAF
Fresh Ground Turkey, Onions, Carrots, Peppers, & Zucchini made into a savory meatloaf and served over Mashed Potatoes & Gravy. For 2 people: $10.95, For 4 people: $20, For 8 people: $38

PLUS, we always have side items and desserts available upon request!

We're Open Mon. to Sat. 11-5 At the Antique Mall in Whistle Stop 1281 Georgia Road
Franklin, NC 28734 www.JersKitchen.com

Golf: Last Chance to win a Mountain Golf Adventure

Last Chance to win a Mountain Golf Adventure!

There’s only a few days left to enter our sweepstakes for a spectacular golf getaway to two of NC’s best mountain courses. The winner will receive a two-night stay at the Mount Mitchell Golf Resort and rounds of golf at the highly-rated Mount Mitchell and Reems Creek Golf Clubs. Enter now : go to http://www.visitnc.com/sweeps/view/the-mountain-golf-adventure-sweepstakes

Boone: Business After Hours - May

May 19 5-7 pm Boone. Business After Hours will be held at EarthFare. Come network with fellow chamber members. Only $3.00 and a business card. MUST RSVP Wysteria White by Tuesday May 19, 2009. We encourage you to wear your company name badge. 264-2225 or info@boonechamber.com.

Ashe County: Start Your Own Business Workshop Series

May 19 West Jefferson. Start Your Own Business Workshop Series begins with Business Idea Development - Evaluate the pros and cons of entrepreneurship and focus on business idea development. Participants will create and assess various business ideas according to their skills and interests along with how the ideas align with the needs of the community.

Register online at www.business.appstate.edu/syob or pick up a brochure at area businesses and community centers and fax the registration section to (828) 265-8685. For more information contact Julia Rowland, rowlandja@appstate.edu / 828-262-8325. Funding is provided by the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation.

Flat Rock : Golf Resort Special

Flat Rock / Hendersonville, Etowah Valley Country Club and Golf Resort - Book 2 weeknight, get one free 3 night minimum starting at $280 per person or book 2 weekend nights get one free 3 night minimum starting at $320 per person. Includes lodging, breakfast, dinner and unlimited greens fees. 800-451-8174 X 317 ask for package EV-E http://www. playetowah.com

Asheville: Spanish Wine Class

May 19 7PM Asheville, Hops & Vines - Join Jessica as we taste our way through the wines of Spain...the graceful bubbles of Cava, crisp refreshing Verdejo, the regal region of Rioja, the friendliness of Garnacha and more!!

This class is open to all wine lovers! E-mail jessica@ashevillewineconsulting.com to register. This one WILL fill up! $20 per person.

Brevard: Small Business Week

May 18-22 Brevard/Transylvania County. Since 1963, every President has declared National Small Business Week to formally recognize the important role of America's small business community. The U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to announce Small Business Week this year is May 18-22, 2009.

The Chamber of Commerce announces the return of the "Twelve at Twelve" series during Small Business Week to recognize Transylvania's small business community. "Twelve at Twelve" are informative sessions available to the membership at 12:00 PM in the Chamber Conference Room.

The first 12 to register for each session will be provided with a free lunch. We welcome many more to participate and ask that you bring your lunch to the meeting. The Chamber will only provide lunch for an individual one time during the course of the week. If you would like to register for more than one session, you should bring your lunch for additional meetings. Call 883-3700 or email jennifer@brevardncchamber.org

Waynesville: Balsam Mountain Inn's Songwriters In-The Round

May 23 Waynesville / Sylva Balsam Mountain Inn. Songwriters In-The Round - Songs you know, made famous by acts such as Garth Brooks, Helen Reddy, John Waite, Chicago, Tina Turner. Meet the people who CREATED THEM - spend an evening with these great artists.
Benita Hill Becky Hobbs and Chas Sanford. "IN-THE-ROUND" songwriters shows provides you a casual and intimate evening with these AWARD WINNERS.

All inclusive tickets for Gourmet Buffet seating and show are $49.40 (buffet,dessert,coffee,tea, soda, tax, tip,cover all included in this budget SAVING price)

Wine, beer, and ABC drinks may be purchased at the table. Buffet starts at 6pm, show at 7:30. Seating every half our.

The Balsam Mountain Inn is located just off U.S. Hwy. 23/74 between Waynesville and Sylva, about 40 miles west of Asheville. 10 minutes from Sylva and Waynesville.

TO PURCHASE TICKETS Call (800) 224-9498

Lansing: HOBO DAY Re-scheduled

May 16 Lansing (Ashe County).Check out this community-wide yard sale starting at 7:30am in the Creeper Trail Park behind the LVFD Building. There is no set-up fee and spaces are available on a first come first serve. Do bring you own tables, chairs and tents. Breakfast will be available at Lansing Volunteer Fire Dept. Building after 7am. Proceeds from the breakfast will go towards supporting the future Lansing Medical Clinic. Lunch will be available for purchase from the LVFD. Visit the open-air Art Gallery and Sidewalk sales throughout the town. Artists, Vendors, Troubadours, Storytellers, Singers, Musicians, and any Creative Performance Artists are welcome. For more information call Frenchy at 336 877 2929 or Brenda at 336 384 9141 or visit the web-site at http://www.lansingnc.com.