Sunday, February 28, 2010

85th Anniversary Celebration of Rickman Store

March 6 , 10:00-4:00PM, Rickman Store, Cowee Historic Distric. Barter Day in the morning; Dulcimer Music; Story telling with Gary Carden and Dave Waldrop at noon; crafts demonstrations and sales; and a Music Jam in the afternoon. If you want to celebrate with us by supporting the efforts at the Store, a suggested donation of $85 (one dollar for each year of the Store), can be made to the Land Trust for the Little Tennessee. Start gathering your trade items - these can be services too. Feel free to contact Elena with questions. LTLT (Little Tennessee Land Trust) http://www.ltlt.org/

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Help Make Brevard "the Coolest Small Town in America"

Brevard is the only North Carolina city in the running for Buget Travel's "Coolest Small Town" designation. Your vote can help make that happen.  Click here to vote for Brevard!

Asheville Mountain Lodge offers Winter Escape Special

BENT CREEK LODGE , Asheville North Carolina. The Winter Escape Special saves you 15% during the week and 10% on the weekend lasts till March 31st. Also, Last Minute Special discounts are 5% more in the winter. If you won one of our Gift Certificates from the quiz, remember that it expires March 31st. Several winners have already made a reservation. Also, it you can't make a 2 night weekend stay, give us a call we have several one night stay rooms available for this month.

Incredible Mountain setting and views, fireplace, WIFI, delicious breakfast. 10 distinctly decorated rooms plus a 3 bd vacation rental. Hiking trails on site, large decks and wrap-around porch, whirlpool tubs. $145-$185 per night, $913-$1166 per week. 828-654-9040

Key West Night in Murphy

March 5, Doyles Cedar Hill Restaurant, 925 Andrews Rd, Murphy North Carolina. Come dressed for Key West Night on Friday and enjoy great live music by Rob from Ramblin' Soul and lots of giveaways! Doyles offers casual-formal dining inside for both lunch and dinner and for the outdoor experience the patio is open for lunch and dinner as well, with live music most nights, and a list of performers you won't want to miss. 828-837-3400

Senate PassesTravel Promotion Act

The Travel Promotion Act has been passed by the U.S. Congress and is expected to become law within 10 days. The Act is designed to create economic growth and thousands of new American jobs by welcoming millions more international travelers to the United States. “This is a historic victory for the U.S. economy and the one in eight American workers whose jobs depend on travel,” said Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association.

The Travel Promotion Act establishes a public-private partnership to promote the United States as a premier international travel destination and communicate U.S. security and entry policies. According to analysis by Oxford Economics, the bill is estimated to drive $4 billion in new consumer spending annually, provide $321 million in new federal tax revenue each year and create 40,000 U.S. jobs nationwide. Further, it is expected to reduce the federal budget deficit by $425 million over the next 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

The Travel Promotion Act is modeled after successful state-level initiatives and is funded through a matching program featuring up to $100 million in private sector contributions and a $10 fee on foreign travelers who do not pay $131 for a visa to enter the United States. The fee is collected once every two years in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization. No money is provided by U.S. taxpayers.    http://www.ustravel.org

Friday, February 26, 2010

Wine Tasting in Waynesville

March 9, 7PM, Wineseller Wine Bar, 20 Church Street, Waynesville North Carolina. Come enjoy a classic wine tasting featuring the wines of Spain for $18, inclusive. For reservations call 828-452-6000 or email Richard@Classicwineseller.com.  http://www.classicwineseller.com/

Thursday, February 25, 2010

"WaterfallTours" on UNCTV Tonight

Tonight at 9PM Transylvania County's Craig Miller of Miller's Waterfall Tours will be appearing on on NC Weekend airing on UNCTV. The segment will highlight the beauty of Transylvania County And Miller's expertise with some of the most unique waterfalls in Transylvania County and in the surrounding area. Miller's Waterfall Tours are enjoyed by local as well as visitors, seniors and phtographers of all levels of expertise. For details...

4th Annual Best Dish in North Carolina Restaurant Competition

Deadline of March 13 for submitting applications. The statewide competition from the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is open to any restaurant or restaurant group doing business in North Carolina. Restaurants compete in either Fine or Casual Dining,  with the winning dishes highlighting the use of locally grown food products. "The purpose of the Best Dish in NC Restaurant Competition is to recognize and reward the efforts of restaurants and chefs who source and implement North Carolina products regularly in their menus along with increasing public awareness of the quality of food, restaurants and chefs in our state.”

Contest rules and forms can be found on the newly launched website, www.bestdishnc.com. Chefs and restaurateurs can also use the site to locate locally sourced products.

Winery Tour

Feb 27, 1:15PM, 2:45PM, Raffaldini Vineyards, Ronda (near Wilkesboro) North Carolina. Ever wanted to learn more about how wine is made? Join winemaker, Stephen Rigby, as he guides you on a tour of the winery as the first grapes are harvested from the vineyard. You'll learn the formula behind our award-winning wines, as well as go step by step through the winemaking process. This is a free event, but space is limited. Reservations are not required but are suggested. http://www.raffaldini.com/

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

FIre and Rescue Personnel Discounts This Weekend at Cataloochee

February 25-26, Cataloochee Ski Area, Maggie Valley North Carolina. Cataloochee Ski Area shows its support of all fire and rescue personnel everywhere with greatly reduced rates for lift tickets, lessons and rentals for two days. Tubing is also available at a reduced rate. Families must be present with personnel with i.d. at time of purchase.

And the Cat Crew will be out on Thursday nights here for the Cataloochee Challenge Cup Race Series. Individuals race against the clock for the best of two runs. Top three challengers in both men’s and womens’ age divisions win cool stuff. You must be 21 years of age or older to participate. The Cat is where it’s at on Thursday night’s Challenge Cup Race Night. http://Cataloochee.com

Boone Business After Hours Re-scheduled

March 4, 5PM-7PM, Sunrise Appliance, 390 Hwy. 105 Ext., Boone North Carolina.  Food & Beverage by Red Onion Cafe - Admission- $3.00 and a business card. Please RSVP by email at: info@boonechamber.com or call 264-2225 by 12:00 noon the day of the event.http://www.boonechamber.com/

New Random Arts Spring Workshop

March 20-21, Random Arts Studio, Saluda North Carolina. Patti Brady  conducts a two day workshop - we will work on a small 10" x 10"plexiglass box. The boxes can hang on the wall or sit upright on a table, We will play with layering images and acrylic glazes by working on both sides of the box. The box is just a departure point for us to explore a range of acrylic gels and grounds. Included in the options of mark-making: making acrylic skins, printed skins, dremel tools lines, stencils, drips, drops, Iridescent and Interference paints and more. All the paint and gels will be provided by Patti and Golden Artist Colors. $195.00


Patti Brady is the Working Artist Program Director for Golden Artist Colors. She has developed curriculum for acrylic classes for artists and art educators. Patti currently has trained and manages 42 national and international artists for the Golden Working Artist Program.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Wine Tasting at the Flat Rock Wine Shoppe

March 5, 5PM-7PM, The Flat Rock Wine Shoppe, 2702 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock North Carolina. Come join this event and learn about wines in a relaxed atmosphere. Featured will be both whites and reds that are easy on the budget, yet interesting on the palate. Live music by Ellen Trnka, and hors d'ouevres by the Back Room's talented Chef Ally. Please call 828-697-6828 for more information.

Fun-raising Wine Tasting Benefits Riverlink


Feb 26, 6PM-8PM, WineStyles, 10 Crispin Court, Suite 102, Gerber Village, Asheville North Carolina. This week's "River Link" is with Winestyles for a night of wine tasting, conversation and conservation. Tickets are only ten dollars (fifteen at the door) and go DIRECTLY to connecting your community with walking and biking trails throughout the French Broad Watershed. Sip on some wonderful wine, snack on tasty snacks, meet some new friends, exchange outdoor adventure stories and support RiverLink (all in two hours, sounds like a fantastic Friday!)

Tickets are limited and going fast! Contact RiverLink's Kyle Wolff at 828.252.8474 x 119 to reserve your ticket today, or send an e-mail at kyle@riverlink.org.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Volunteers needed for Panthertown Workday

February 27, Salt Rock Trailhead, Highlands Area North Carolina.  Friends of Panthertown Volunteer Work Day. Meet at 9:30a.m. at the Salt Rock trailhead. Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to attend-no previous experience is necessary. Tools will be provided. Participants should bring a day pack with lunch, water, warm clothes, rain gear and work gloves. The Friends of Panthertown works in partnership with the USDA Forest Service to conserve the outstanding natural resource while improving the quality and experience of recreational opportunities in Panthertown Valley.

Downtown Sylva has Great Books, Great Food and Great Beer!

Feb 25, 6PM-9PM, Spring Street Cafe', 3 E. Jackson St., Sylva North Carolina. Spring Street Cafe' reopens offering specially priced menu items made with Heinzelmannchen Beers, locally brewed. Join Spring Street Cafe, City Lights Bookstore and Heinzelmannchen Brewery to celebrate The reopening of Spring Street, new ownership of City Lights, and the Cookbook Release of Heinzelmannchen Brewery. Beginning at 6 enjoy great food from Spring Street, made with Heinzelmannchen Beer. At  6:30 - Cookbook Release Celebration at City Lights Regional Room.  Meet Heinzelmannchen Brewery owners & authors of Your Gnometown Cookbook Until 9. Browse City Lights for more great books. When you purchase Your Gnometown Cookbook from City Lights (or bring your already purchased copy) receive a discount on dinner from Spring Street Cafe.

Reservations are recommended at Spring Street 828-586-6700
http://www.yourgnometownbrewery.com/              http://www.citylightsnc.com/  

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Tomorrow - Celebrate Black History Concert

February 20, 7PM, First Baptist Church of North Wilkesboro (on the corner of 6th and D St)
North Wilkesboro North Carolina. Free concert featuring New Damascus Baptist Church choir, Pleasant Hill Baptist Church choir, and Rickards Chapel Church choir. Annual event sponsored by the Cultural Arts Council of Wilkes (336)838-1076.  

Cataloochee BIG,BIG,BIG One Day Season Pass Sale

March 7th ONLY, Cataloochee SKi Area, Maggie Valley North Carolina. All passes with be on sale Sunday Marth 7th:   http://www.cataloochee.com

Type of Pass
One Day Sale 3/7/10
Early Bird
3/8-3/31
First Tracks
4/1-8/31
Pre Season
9/1-11/30
In Season
12/1-
Single Person UNLIMITED Pass (Good Anytime)
$399
$450
$500
$575
$595
Family UNLIMITED Pass
(2 person) (Good Anytime)
$650
$745
$790
$830
$890
Additional Family UNLIMITED Pass* (Good Anytime)
$200
$230
$240
$250
$280
WEEKDAY / NIGHT Pass** Non-Holiday Mon-Friday, all nights [Details]
$169
$220
$250
$270
$320
Single Person, LIMITED Sun. through Friday Pass
(Not good on Saturdays 8:30am - 6pm)
$339
$390
$440
$470
$535
Family (2 person) LIMITED Sun. through Friday Pass* (Not good on Saturdays 8:30am - 6pm)
$535
$635
$725
$775
$825
Additional Family LIMITED Sun. through Friday Pass* (Not good on Saturdays 8:30am - 6pm)
$175
$200
$210
$240
$260
Corporate Transferable
All Session
$650
$725

Friday, February 19, 2010

Appalachian Food Traditions Pot-luck

Feb 25th, 6:30pm, Ransom Fellowship Hall, Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa North Carolina. Join Gary Paul Nabhan, founder of Slow Food's Renewing America's Food Traditions (RAFT), for an Appalachian supper! There is a rich history of food in Western North Carolina. Pork dishes, hearty bean soups, greens cooked to silky perfection, and corn pone are perfect winter food. Bring a down home dish to share and some wine or hard cider to share if you like. For detailed directions http://www.warren-wilson.edu/info/campus_map.php. Space is limited to 60 for this event so register at http://www.slowfoodasheville.org/Forms/attend_aft.htm to RSVP. http://www.slowfoodasheville.org

Guthrie Family Rides Again in Asheville

March 3-4, 8PM, Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square, Ashville North Carolina. Road Tours are  nothing new to the Guthrie Family. The family’s current tour officially introduces the fourth generation of Guthries to the stage, Woody's great-grandchildren. The entire clan performs the songs that they've written and learned together, all performed in the family tradition generations have come to love. For generations the Guthries have traveled the world making music. Arlo Guthrie and his wife Jackie raised their children on the road where they joined them on stage here and there.
Tickets: Regular $50, Seniors $48, Students $45, Children $12. http://www.dwtheatre.com

More Local Giveaways from John C Campbell Folk School

John C. Campbell Folk School, One Folk School Road, Brasstown (between Hayesville and Murphy) North Carolina. Week of February 28-March 6, 2010
Clay: New Directions in Decoration
2 spaces available

Instructor: Rae Breed - Incising is a great way to transform your production pottery into unique works of art. Come to class with shapes and designs in hand, and you will leave with pieces that will excite the creative senses. Basic throwing skills are essential for this intermediate to advanced class.

Week of February 28-March 6, 2010
Woodcarving: Carving a Portrait in Relief
2 spaces available

Instructor: Paul B. Rolfe- Starting with a good photograph of a person, a pet, or even a horse, learn how to use measurements and your eye to carve their likeness in wood. What a cherished heirloom this project will make! Some carving experience with gouges is helpful, but not required. You will learn all that you will need to know in class.

Big Bird at Lake James State Park

February 20, 10AM, Lake James State Park, Nebo North Carolina. Join Park Ranger Nora Coffey to learn about North Carolinas largest woodpecker, the Pileated Woodpecker. Discussion with mounted species with a short hike following. The hike will be a moderate level hike of approximately 1.5 miles. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and bring your binoculars if you have them. Meet at the Lake James State Park office at 10:00 a.m. For more information, call 828-652-5047. www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/laja/main.php

Thursday, February 18, 2010

French Broad River the Subject of Mountain WILD! Event

Feb 23, WNC Nature Center Classroom, 75 Gashes Creek Rd, Asheville North Carolina. Mountain WILD! welcomes Hartwell Carson of Western North Carolina Alliance to explain the current state of the French Broad River, its challenges, opportunities and issues in the water quality community.  Anyone with an interest in this most precious resource is invited to join this informative and interactive gathering. Time will be allotted after Hartwell's address to investigate specific areas of interest among those present.  The event is free and open to the public. Read more about WNC Nature Center and events...
                                   
  For more information about the meeting, call (828) 338-0035.

Sylva Art Show Helps LTLT

Feb 20, 5PM-7PM, Spring Street Cafe, 3 E. Jackson St., Sylva North Carolina.  Artist Phyllis Jarvinen will be opening "Watershed - close to home", a show of paintings and drawings she has done on site in the regional area. Phyllis, very generously, is donating 15% of the sales from this show to LTLT with an additional 5% if the purchaser is an LTLT member. The show will be up at Spring Street through March. Read More about LTLT (Land Trust for the Lillte Tennessee).

Knife and Fork Hosts Benefit in Spruce Pine

February 27, Knife and Fork, 61 Locust Street, Spruce Pine North Carolina. Knife and Fork Restaurant will host a bebefit dinner for the Main Street Events Stage Fund, a community group promoting downtown Spruce Pine events and economic development. Make reservations early as seating is limited - 828-765-1511   http://www.knifeandforknc.com. The menu includes:
french onion soup
*
roasted chicken with vegetable gratin
or
ruby trout with farrolito, herbs and onion jam
*
chocolate mousse with chocolate crisps

Make reservations early as seating is limited - 828-765-1511   http://www.knifeandforknc.com

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Take a Hike!

Feb 20, 2-4PM, Foothills Conservancy's Riverbend Boundary Preserve along the Broad River in Rutherford County North Carolina. Join FCNC (Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina) board member Jerry Stensland and the Rutherford Outdoor Coalition on an easy winter hike.We'll talk about conservation efforts along the river downstream from the Hickory Nut Gorge and warm up with hot drinks around a bonfire after the hike.
With the weather being "iffy" be sure to RSVP for this hike just in case the hike is cancelled. You can RSVP by sending an email to info@foothillsconservancy.org or-by calling our office 828-437-9930. Specific directions will be given when you RSVP.

Serious Moonlight this week in Flat Rock

Feb 19 - 25, 4PM, 7PM, The Flat Rock Cinema, 2700 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock North Carolina. Serious Moonlight is described as a love/hate comedy and stars Meg Ryan and Timothy Hutton. A high-powered attorney duct tapes her adulterous husband to the toilet ... right before their home is invaded by burglars. (We all knew there were more than 1,000 uses for duct tape) All tickets are $6. Enjoy lunch or dinner and beer, wine and soft drinks. http://flatrockcinema.com

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

This Week at M Squared Restaurant

M Squared Restaurant, 125 West Main Street, Spindale (near Rutherfordton) North Carolina.
Wednesday: 
Trivia with Nick at 8:00pm and Half Price Wine Bottles. The Smartest Team Receives a $30 Gift Certificate!
Thursday: Seafood Night (Special TBA) Sushi Night Will Now be Featured Once a Month.
Friday: Alex Thompson on Keyboard! $5.00 Martini Night!
Saturday: Follow Us on Twitter: “M2Spindale”
Sunday: Brunch From 11:00am-2:00pm. Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar Begins at 12:00pm. Bluegrass in the Background.Call (828) 288-4641 for Reservations   http://www.msquaredrestaurant.com/

Argentine Wine Dinner at The Back Room Restaurant

February 23, The Back Room at The Flat Rock Wine Shoppe, 2702 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock North Carolina. Experience the cuisine & wines of South America. Meet and Greet at 5:30PM, with dinner beginning promptly at 6PM. The 5 course, 6 wine meals includes:
1st: Pumpkin & Chorizo Empanadas
2nd: Ensalada Rusa
3rd: Striped Bass with Pine Nut Sauce
4th: Chimichuri Beef Short Ribs
5th: Lemon Sweet Bread
$60.00 Per person tax and gratuity included.
Reservations required; please call 828-697-6828

Monday, February 15, 2010

New Rock Garden at John C. Cmpbell


John C Campbell Folk Center has a wonderful new rock garden and outdoor social space between Davidson Hall and the Dining Hall (near the base of the Red Rail) thanks to two of the Folk School instructors,Olivia and Robert Anderson. To add to the project, another student and long-time Fall Festival vendor has donated a unique bench to be used here. Joe Dumas created a one-of-a-kind metal and stone bench to be used in this new location, and he donated it to Folk School in February. The Center's trusty maintenance crew installed it earlier this month.

"On The Verge" needs your vote

WNC Magazine and the Flood Gallery Fine Arts Center have teamed up to host the 2nd Annual On The Verge competition, aimed at providing first-time exposure for up-and-coming artists in our region. WNC magazine will feature the selected artists, and the Flood gallery will host a gallery exhibit of their work during the month of June 2010. To view the artists and vote for your favorites click here.

Use it or Loose it - not a joke for Mountain Cherokee Heritage

Before the Pilgrims, before the Spanish and Italians and even before the Vikings this country was populated with people whose heritage - despite what it has to teach us all - has been long disrupted and discarded. But, hopefully, things are changing. Today, a group of Cherokee school children are attending classes at the New Kituwah Academy where, for eight hours a day, Cherokee is the language spoken and English is minimized. The Cherokee language immersion program is part of The Kituwah Language Revitalization Initiative, a project from the Cherokee Preservation Foundation designed to reverse the loss of the Cherokee language and produce a new generation of Cherokee speakers.
Now located in the renovated Boundary Tree Motel property on US 441 in Cherokee, the program began in 1994 with the kindergarten class and will eventually encompass pre-K through grade five. Read more...
Photo and information provided by Postcards from the Smokies

Neither Rain nor Sleet nor Snow Shall Stop the Fishing!

February Fishing Report from Curtis Wright Outfitters, authored by David Grossman. There is still great winter fishing to be had if you are flexible and determined enough to find it. The most important tool in a fisherman's toolbox this winter is the USGS Water Watch website  that provides the current river levels and flows for all of North Carolina. By seeing an overall picture of the water levels in our area you can really target those rivers where the conditions will be the best the day that you go to fish.

Another important thing to remember this February is that holding water for trout changes when the water rises, and they will most often be pushed out into whatever calm water they can find by the banks. For the fly fisherman this means throw a couple of casts to the water by the bank before you start wading in it. You
may be surprised by a trout that you otherwise would have stepped on. Read more...

Romantic Movies Continue in Bryson CIty

Feb 16, 3:30PM, Marianna Black Library, 33 Fryemont St., Bryson City North Carolina. ‘A Cinderella Story’  will be shown in the Library free to the public and projected onto an 8 X 10 foot screen, with a theater sound system. The library will also be giving away one free movie check out voucher to each patron who attends the movie. Popcorn, provided by the Friends of the Marianna Black Library, will be served in the library auditorium starting at 3:20 PM. For more information, call the library at 828-488-3030 

Mountainview Inn offers March Special

The Folkestone Inn, 101 Folkestone Road, Bryson City North Carolina. March Special for two adults: spend two nights and get the second night at 50% off plus a full gourmet breakfast both mornings. Soft drinks, snacks & cookies all day. Guest computer in library. Wireless, full gourmet breakfast each day. Our Smoky Mountain Bed and Breakfast is filled with old fashioned charm and modern amenities. Open year 'round, private balconies and mountain vistas. $109 - $163 per night

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Folk School Songbook Reprinted and Available

John C. Campbell Folk School, 1 Folk School Road,  Brasstown, (near Hayesville) North Carolina.  By popular demand, The Folk School Songbook has been reprinted. The Songbook contains over 90 traditional songs, including ballads, rounds, folk favorites, and many others. After almost 20 years of use at MorningSong the last copy was sold in the School's Craft Shop. Revisions and additions were made, including larger print.

The Dr. Arthur and Bonnie Ennis Foundation provided financial support and Bob Dalsemer, Coordinator of Music and Dance, engineered revisions and additions.

Purchase a copy of the Songbook for  personal use from the Craft Shop for $18.95. Full of traditional songs that have been used at the Folk School for years, it's a lovely book to have on hand when you're in a singing mood!

Friday, February 12, 2010

Last Minute Valentine's Day Getaways and Events

Feb 12-15, Western North Carolina Mountains. It's not too late to find the perfect Valentine getaway. dining or spa for your special someone. Cozy  cabins, romantic bed and breakfasts, mountain lodges and Inns, candlelight dinners, spa packages or muisic and dancing are all still available. Lodging prices start at $49 per night - click here to browse a list of Valentine's Day Specials and Packages.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Chocolate Bliss in Black Mountain

Feb 20, 2:00PM-4:30PM, Black Mountain Chocolate, Black Mountain North Carolina. Sponsored by Slow Food Asheville, David Mason from Black Mountain Chocolate will take us start to finish through the processes at his facility. There will be several different origins of chocolate to taste along with some nibs.

Please bring your favorite chocolate finger food or snack to share with the tour. Fresh made hot chocolate, using David’s chocolate, will be available for sale and there will be a raffle to win a goodie bag of chocolate! The cost for this wonderful educational event will be $5.00. Raffle tickets will be $1.00, and hot chocolate is $3.00 per cup. All proceeds will support Slow Food’s on-going educational programs. If you have any questions or need directions, please refer to David’s website: www.blackmountainchocolate.com or contact Tia Bednar at 828-215-4684.

Valentine Date and reTreat at Asheville Spa


12- 28   Shoji Spa and Lodge , 96 Avondale Heights Rd., Asheville North Carolina. Valentine Date: One hour Private Hot Tub - Cedar Sauna w/ spa amenities - 50 minute Massage - Super Hydrating Body Treatment - Plan to be here 2.5 hours - Single 163 Double 272. Valentine reTreat: One hour Private Hot Tub - Cedar Sauna w/ spa amenities - 80 min Massage - Green Tea Body Wrap - Sake Foot Scrub - Shower Sugar Scrub - Plan to be 3.5 hours - Single 205 Double 405

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Downtown Sylva Offers Treats for Valentines

Downtown Sylva North Carolina Merchants Sweetheart Specials: 

Annie's Naturally Bakery
Valentine goodies including Heart Cookie Cakes, Heart Chocolate Ganache Cakes, Assorted Truffles, Chocolate Covered Cherries, Chocolate Covered Strawberries and Valentine Cookies.

The Jackson County Farmer's Market and Eric's Fresh Fish Market will be hosting special Valentine's Day market event on Saturday, February 13th. Come down to find unique gifts for your sweetheart and friends, as well as delicious ingredients for a special meal.
Eric's Fresh Fish Market Lover's specials:
*Two Med. Maine Lobster Tails (8 oz);1 lb. LG 16-20 Ct.Texas Gulf Shrimp $24.99
*Trout for 2 (FRZ)$ 9.99 each

Restaurant 553 will be open on Valentines day offering special dishes and is currently accepting reservations.

Lulu’s on Main will be celebrating Valentine's Day with a special feature menu on both Friday and Saturday nights.

Papou’s Wine Shop and Bar will host a Valentine’s Day wine tasting on February 13th from 2pm-5pm.

Yesterday's Tree has lots of Valentines Day goodies: Heart shaped frames, chocolate scented candles (not to mention tons of other scents!), jute tote bags, or the coolest recycled wine bags. Put together something extra special for your special someone!
 
It’s by Nature has returned from their winter break and invite you to stop by and visit their newly expanded jewelry section-just in time for Valentine's Day. We are celebrating with the following specials through Feb 14th.  **Free Sunshine jewelry cleaning cloth with any jewelry purchase of $50 or more while supplies last. **Free Essential Journeys lip balm with SPF with every purchase of $25.00 or more-while supplies last. **Discounts on Essential Journeys soaps and lotions when purchased as a set.

Carole Lilly Massage: February specials
$10 off Body Wraps. Treat yourself or that special someone this Valentine's Day! Soften, energize and hydrate your body with $10 off a body wrap. Includes exfoliation, wrap and relaxing 60 minute massage. Purchase a gift certificate or schedule an appointment.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

A Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Smoky Mountain Style!

Feb 11-13, Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin North Carolina. An evening of classic love songs and memorable food with a  "Crazy Little Thing Called Love". Become part of the show as you are served dinner on stage while the cast croons such hits as "All of Me", "Unchained Melody" and "I Can't Help Falling in Love with You". It's an evening to share with your own true love or special friend. Limited seating, so make your reservations early. Tickets must be purchased in sets of two with six a maximum of six. For more than six, call the ticket office at 828-524-1598.

And it's not the usual bland diner show menu: 
Amuse Bushe - Golden Beet Carpaccio
Salads (Select One):
Ham, Pear, and Arugula
Spinach, Pecans, and Warm Bacon Dressing
Entrees (Select One):
Beef Wellington with Grilled Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus and Twice Baked Stuffed Potato
Maple-Cherry Glazed Salmon, Winter Medley Vegetables, Twice Baked Stuffed Potato
Dessert for Two:
Two flavors of mousse served in chocolate cups, garnished with fresh berries.
Call for vegan meals
     YUM!

Get on the Bus!

February 18, 12PM-2PM, RiverLink, Asheville City Hall, Asheville North Carolina. Come tour the French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers with RiverLink and witness their magic first hand.   This is an opportunity to see the improvements that have occurred and hear what is coming over the next several months and years to make our rivers a better place to work, live and play.   You will also learn some local history and visit some streets and neighborhoods you have never seen before.

If you ever wondered about the river development project – this is your opportunity to see and hear about the plans for the future.   The bus will meet you in front of Asheville City Hall and return to City Hall.
This tour is free for RiverLink members.  Non-members cost $15.00 per person.  Lunch is not provided but you can bring your own.   Reservations are a must – so call us at 828- 252-8474 or click here to make your reservation online.

ASAP Farm Support and Promotion Workshop in Asheville

Feb 10, ASAP ( Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) will be announcing new resources at a workshop event tomorrow in Asheville North Carolina.  ASAP will be working with local governments and others interested in the region’s development, to support work in this area. Farms create jobs, increase communities' tax revenue, attract visitors, and can help keep some of the 370 billion dollars tourists spend on food and drink in the local North Carolina economies.

Farm Promotion and Support is a one-day workshop for economic development and tourism authorities, as well as others held at The Market Place restaurant , downtown Asheville, from 10AM-3PM. Cost: $25 includes training, morning coffee, and lunch by The Market Place. Seating is limited contact for reservations or information. Click here to download the Flyer: Download the flyer (PDF).

Funny Business on Valentine's Day

Feb 14, 8PM, Funny Business Comedy Club, Asheville North Carolina. 8pm show this weekend on Valentine's Day! You now have 3 opportunities to catch Ken Evans clean, and always hilarious shows! Shows for this weekend are at 8pm on Friday, Saturday AND now Sunday! For the rest of February tickets are only $10! Much cheaper than diamonds and better for your heart, why not do something unique this year with your main squeeze! Or if you're single, come see a show with us and we'll keep  ya company(at least for an hour or two!) We now serve Asheville's own, Craggie Brewing Company's Pale Ale, only $2.50 and a great new appetizer menu- prices range from $3.95-$7.95. Come Eat, Drink, and LAUGH  this weekend! http://www.ashevillecomedy.com/

Monday, February 8, 2010

Jer's Kitchen Valentine Dinner: All the Fuss without the Muss

Jer's Kitchen, Whistle Stop Mall, 1281 Georgia Road, Franklin North Carolina. Valentine Dinner - Back by popular demand! We are offering 3 wonderful entrees and three appetizers to chose from, along with salad, rolls and dessert. A wonderful feast for two! Dinner for two may be different entrees and appetizers.
Appetizers : Seafood Bisque, Shrimp Cocktail with remoulade or Mediterranean Plate-three varieties of hummus, with pita and feta cheese
Entrees:
-Filet of Beef-with bordelaise, garlic mashed potatoes and asaragus
-Coq au Vin-chicken with red wine sauce and mushrooms, and rice pilaf
-Onion Crusted Salmon- with garlic mashed potatoes, pomeray mustard creme sauce, and asparagus  - entrees are accompanied with yeast rolls
Salad: Mixed greens with marinated vegetables
Dessert: Jerri's wonderful Chocolate Truffle Cake with fresh raspberries

Valentine Dinner for two $50.00. Please call and make reservations before Thursday, 3pm. Dinners will be picked up during the afternoon on Sunday, February 14. 828-524-1960
http://www.jerskitchen.com

Vineyards and Valentines

Feb 13-14, RagApple Lassie Vinyards, 3724 RagApple Lassie Lane, Boonville (near Mount Airy) North Carolina. We will have live music BOTH Saturday and Sunday - Noon to Six!
Saturday, February 13th, Darlene Caudle, aka Patsy Cline, will romance you with her renditions of Patsy Cline, while you are sampling awesome wines from glasses rimmed with fine chocolate.
Sunday, February 14th, celebrate Valentine's Day listening to Bill Mann playing smooth jazz on the tenor, alto or soprano saxophones - all afternoon - Noon to Six - while you sample great wines from glasses rimmed with fine chocolate!

Divine Belgium Chocolates from the Blue Ridge Chocolate Shop will be available for sampling, plus, the opportunity to create your own custom selection of chocolates for gifting or sharing!
http://www.ragapplelassie.com/new/

See Sleeping Beauty in Bryson City

February 9, 3PM, Marianna Black Library, 33 Fryemont St., Bryson City North Carolina. Get in the mood for Valentine's Day with Disney's classic romance Sleeping Beauty, part of the library's February series of romance movies. The movies at the library are free to the public and projected onto an 8 X 10 foot screen, with a theater sound system.  The library will also be giving away one free movie check out voucher to each patron who attends the movie. Popcorn, provided by the Friends of the Marianna Black Library, will be served in the library auditorium starting at 3:20 PM.  For more information, call the library at 828-488-3030.

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Moonlighting Librarian Stikes a Happy Note

By day, Jeff Delfield is the Librarian at Bryson City’s Marianna Black Library. And in his spare time, he’s a maker of unique hand-crafted musical instruments, filling requests from as far away as Australia. Currently, he’s putting the finishing touches on a tackhead banjo with a distinctive “patchwork quilt” design — a specific request of the buyer. To achieve the multicolored pattern, Jeff constructed the rim from eight different woods. And to fully display the beauty of the woodwork, he hid the head tensioning system on the inside of the rim, a technique he borrowed from the makers of Irish Bodhrán drums. The head is calfskin, the neck walnut and the fretboard is made of bloodwood. Jeff makes just one instrument at a time, a process that usually takes about six weeks. You can see more of his hand-crafted folk instruments, including videos, on his Deep Creek Strings website.
Photo and information courtsey of Postcards From The Smokies, Postcards@GreatSmokies.com

Big Band Sweetheart Dance in Flat Rock

Feb 13, 6PM-10PM, Flat Rock Playhouse, 2661 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock North Carolina. Step right into a USO Club in full “swing” as Flat Rock Playhouse invites everyone to travel back in time to the Swinging 40’s during the Big Band Sweetheart Dance which takes place Valentine’s Day Eve. Held at the unique location of the WNC Air Museum, dancing is encouraged throughout the evening with music provided by the Hendersonville Swing Band, under the direction of Jerry Zink. Proceeds from the dance go to support the Flat Rock Playhouse YouTheatre program. Tickets to the Big Band Sweetheart Dance are $100 each, which includes dinner, dessert and cocktails. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres begin at 6:00 pm with dinner at 6:30.

For tickets to the Big Band Sweetheart Dance, contact the Flat Rock Playhouse box office at (828) 693-0731 or toll-free at (866)732-8008.

Valentine's Day Dinner

Flat Rock, Hendersonville North Carolina.  The Back Room Restaurant at the Flat Rock Wine Shoppe.  Valentine's Day Dinner for two just $40.00; includes three course meal and champagne!
Appetizer: Crab Cakes, Brillat Savarin Cheese, or House Salad
Entree: Prime Rib, Wild Caught Raspberry Salmon, or Chicken Marsala
Dessert Platter to share.

A Sweetheart of an Art Walk


February 12, 5:00 pm -7:00 pm, downtown Brevard North Carolina. In honor of Valentine's Day, the downtown art galleries in Brevard will host a Cupid's mini-gallery walk. Enjoy an evening stroll in downtown Brevard as you enjoy visiting the art galleries that are staying open late. Explore artwork by local and regional artists while you enjoy wine, munchies, music and a fashion show. Be sure to look for the 16 sculptures and five murals located in downtown as well.

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Parkway Playhouse Valentine's Day Event

The Parkway Playhouse,  Burnsville North Carolina. Special Valentines Day Cabaret Event at Higgins Memorial Methodist Church February 12th & 13th at 7:30 PM. Call 828 682-4285 For more information.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Contras and Square Dance Series

February 6, 6 PM-11 PM, John C Campbell Folk School, Brasstown ( near Hayesville) North Carolina.  Contra & Square Dance . Bob Dalsemer is an internationally acclaimed contra and square dance caller as well as Coordinator of Music and Dance Programs at the Folk School. Twice monthly community dance series. Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for ages 12-18, and $2 for children under 12.

More Local Giveaways from John C Campbell Folk School

John C Campbell Folk School, One Folk School Road, Brasstown North Carolina. Some great classes have become available as local giveaways. Local giveaways are available from the Folk School occasionally when certain classes have lower enrollment.
The fine print:
Tuition is free, but students will be required to pay a $25 registration fee and any additional materials costs.
-Each person may only claim a giveaway one time every 12 months.
-Local Giveaways are awarded on a first-come first-serve basis and may not be used on a class for which you are already registered.
-Recipients must be residents of the Folk School's "Local" Counties: Cherokee, Clay, Macon, Swain, Graham (NC); Union, Towns, Fannin (GA), and Polk (TN).That's it! See below for the classes that are available. We hope to see you at the Folk School soon!

HOW TO REGISTER: please call our REGISTRATION STAFF at the Folk School: 828-837-2775 or 800-365-5724 and be sure to mention Promotional Giveaways to the person answering your call.

Monday, February 1, 2010

One-time special ticket offer for Dianne Wortham Performances

With this past weekend's winter storm, ticket sales have ground to a proverbial halt for Natalie MacMaster & Connell Leahy: Masters of the Fiddle tonight and tomorrow night, as well as this coming weekend's performances of Aquila Theatre in Enemy of the People on Friday night, and As You Like it on Saturday night. People's attention is simply elsewhere.

Therefore, we are making this one-time special offer to our E-news Subscribers of tickets for just $20 to any of these four performances. Tickets can be purchased online at www.dwtheatre.com by using the Coupon Code - DWT2S. Or you can call the box office at 828-257-4530 and mention the same Coupon Code.

This offer is for new ticket purchases only, and cannot be applied to prior purchases.

First Friday Groove at the Grove

Feb 5, The Grove Arcade, downtown Asheville North Carolina. The February First Friday concert, featuring funky Motown music from MotownBlue, is an affordable, fun way to enjoy time out with your friends and family. Led by our own "singing security guard" William Stafford (pictured), Motownblue will be performing tunes by hit-makers such as Stevie Wonder, BB King, Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye and more. Vocalist William Stafford will be joined by Allan Greene on bass, David Tarpley on guitar and Roger Parkinson on drums. The merchants are delighted to host this series of concerts that supports local businesses and downtown restaurants. Free popcorn with drink purchase. $1 armband purchase.http://www.grovearcade.com