59.0° Fair
|
Overview > Local Scoop > Labels > Events Labels
Wednesday, November 4, 2009 Repairs to City Parking Garages Begins11:57 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - City of Asheville Parking Services will conduct repairs and restorative maintenance work on the Wall Street and Rankin Avenue parking garages beginning Nov. 3 and continuing through the end of the year. Work will include concrete repairs, water sealing, replacement or repair of joints, and repainting the stripes and directional arrows in the garages. These actions are necessary to maintain the facility for years to come.
Work will start with the Wall Street Garage and then Rankin Avenue Garage. Weather permitting, work will be conducted from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily, except Sundays, and will be conducted in phases to minimize the disruption to normal activities. Parking patrons should, however, expect differing traffic patterns, some delays, and closed-off spaces during repairs. During repairs, the remaining two City garages, Civic Center, and either Rankin Avenue or Wall Street, will be open for parkers’ use. Labels: asheville, events, government Friday, October 30, 2009 Birthday Parties at The NC Arboretum Encourage Unique Experiential Adventures12:55 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Remember how fun it was to explore nature as a child? The NC Arboretum invites families to participate in its birthday party program, offering safe adventure amid 434 acres of natural beauty and a fun, guided celebration that everyone will treasure for years to come.
The Arboretum’s birthday parties for ages 5 and up feature a 75-minute guided program of your choice along with 45 minutes for cake and a gift celebration. All programs are led by an expert environmental educator and take place in the Arboretum’s interactive children’s classroom as well as outside along the trails, creeks, pond, gardens and woodlands. Party themes include: Outdoor Adventure: Children embark on a short hike along the Arboretum's trails as we learn how to build survival shelters and navigate with a compass. Party favors include a compass and bandanna for each child. Bug Hunt: Participants get up close and personal with our collection of live invertebrates in the classroom, then head out to discover the amazing insects that call our pond, fields and woodlands home. Party favors include a magnifying lense and bug box for each child. Wildlife of the Woods: Junior wildlife biologists will be thrilled by hands-on reptile and amphibian demonstrations, a wildlife match-up game, and a guided wildlife walk. Party favorsinclude a pair of binoculars and magnifying lense for each child. Custom parties are also available, just let us know what your child would love to explore! Parties are available on Saturdays at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. One adult for every 10 children are required to attend the guided program. Families may arrive 30 minutes prior to the party to decorate tables, chairs and the chalkboard (for the ecological reasons, no balloons allowed). A maximum of 24 children and 15 adults may attend. Party favors are available at an additional cost of $2.50 per child. Parties must be booked three weeks prior to the celebration. Parking fees are waived for participants. For information, visit Arboretum Birthday Parties or contact Jonathan Marchal, Youth Education Coordinator, at jmarchal@ncarboretum.org or 828.665.2492, ext. 228. Labels: asheville, children, events, nature, nc arboretum
Bulldogs Live to Start on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at Scully's12:41 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The UNC Asheville men's and women's basketball radio show - Bulldogs' Live - is returning for its sixth year starting on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at Scully's Signature Restaurant on 13 Walnut Street from 6-7 p.m. The show will be broadcast on WISE Radio (1310-AM). Each week the show will provide an update on both Bulldog basketball teams.
The show will move to Wednesday's this year after being on Thursday the past five seasons. The move was necessary due to the men's basketball team playing six Big South Conference games on Thursday this year. Bulldogs' Live will feature comments from head men's coach Eddie Biedenbach and women's coach Betsy Blose plus a chance for callers to ask questions of each coach. Both Bulldog teams will have players on the show from time-to-time. "We are delighted that WISE Radio and Scully's is allowing us to have Bulldogs Live yet again this year," commented Biedenbach. "This is a great opportunity for our fans to interact with both of our basketball programs." "I'm really happy that Bulldogs' Live is back for another year," stated Blose. "It's a wonderful show that gives us a chance to promote our programs and be with our great fans." Labels: asheville, basketball, Bulldogs, events, restaurants
The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa Introduces 'Girlfriends Getaway'12:17 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa has the perfect way for you to reconnect with that long lost friend from high school or college with our Girlfriends Getaway package. There’s no better way to connect with good friends than with this relaxing and fun-filled package. Make a date with “the girls” and meet up at our historic mountain retreat. A visit to our celebrated world class Spa gets your Girlfriends Getaway started. Slip into luxurious robes, then swim, relax in our sauna or simply idle in our outdoor whirlpool with its incredible views. The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa offers a variety of activities such as dining, shopping, golf and a state-of-the-art sports and fitness center. At the end of a fun-filled day, girlfriends can retire to their room for a night of gossip and heart-to-hearts: Just like old times!
The Girlfriends Getaway Package includes: - Accommodations - Dinner served in your room or at award winning Blue Ridge Dining Room - Daily breakfast - Passes to The Spa at The Grove Park Inn Resort Call (800) 438-5800 for more information or to speak to a reservations specialist, or visit www.groveparkinn.com. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ewgrove and Facebook at www.facebook.com/groveparkinn. Labels: asheville, events, Grove Park Inn, restaurants, spa Tuesday, October 27, 2009 The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Announces Seasonal Service to North Pole2:13 PM
BRYSON CITY, NC - In 1985, Chris Van Allsburg wrote The Polar Express, a story of a magical train ride on Christmas Eve. The train takes a young boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa Claus. "The Polar Express," published by Houghton Mifflin Company, has become a contemporary holiday classic, with over 6 million copies sold worldwide. In 2004 Warner Bros. Entertainment, Inc. reunited the Academy Award-winning team of Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis in an inspiring animated version. That same year GSMR began operating The Polar Express based on the storybook version. Over 40,000 passengers rode The Polar Express with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in 2008.
The one and half hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the "North Pole" to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board The Polar Express, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. The Polar Express 2009 schedule is November 6, 8, 12, 13, 15, & 19 departs at 6:30pm. November 7, 14, 22, 24, 25, & 29 departs at 5:00pm & 6:30pm. November 20, 21, 27, & 28 departs at 5:00pm, 6:30pm, & 8:00pm. December 2, 6, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, & 17 departs at 5:00pm & 6:30pm. December 3, 4, 10, & 11 departs at 11:00am, 5:00pm, 6:30pm, & 8:00pm. December 5, 12, & 19 departs at 2:00pm, 3:30pm, 5:00pm, 6:30pm, & 8:00pm. December 18, 20, 21, 22, & 23 departs 5:00pm, 6:30pm, & 8:00pm. Labels: Bryson City, children, events, trains
Fine Arts Theater Hosts Special Showing of Herb and Dorthy on Thursday1:58 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Art Museum invites you to a special film screening of Herb and Dorothy at 7:00 p.m. the Fine Arts Theatre in downtown Asheville on Thursday, October, 29, 2009.
With the tagline: "You don't have to be a Rockefeller to collect art, "this film tells the extraordinary collecting career of New Yorkers Herb and Dorothy Vogel, a postal clerk and librarian respectively, who managed to build one of the most important contemporary art collections in history — now mainly housed at the National Gallery of Art (NGA). The Vogel Collection at the NGA was the main lender to the Asheville Art Museum's recent exhibition Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Projects. At one point over 2,000 pieces of art filled every square inch of their one-bedroom Manhattan apartment. This gem of a film has received numerous awards since it debuted last year; the Museum is pleased to premiere the film in Asheville. Purchase your tickets in advance with cash, check or credit card by calling 828.253.3227 or get tickets at the Fine Arts Theatre beginning 30 minutes prior to the film with cash only. Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 Museum Members, students and seniors. After the film, if you find you need your own Christo and Jeanne-Claude work in your home, come by the Museum Shop or visit us online! The Shop has high-quality framed posters signed by Christo and Jeanne-Claude available for purchase! (The artists derive no profit from the sale of these works. The works were donated to raise funds for the Museum's fine programming to serve the community.) Labels: art, asheville, events, movies, museums
Western Carolina Presents "Midsummer Night's Dream Set in 1930s Appalachia10:29 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Care for a serving of Shakespeare, hold the Elizabethan English and add a dash of fiddle and a soft Southern drawl? The department of stage and screen at Western Carolina University will present “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” – a commentary on the absurdity of love – at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 29-31, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, at the Fine and Performing Arts Center on the WCU campus.
One of the most often performed of Shakespeare’s comedies, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” weaves multiple storylines: A royal wedding, a group of amateur actors planning the wedding entertainment, the confused affections of four young lovers, and a feuding fairy king and queen whose magical spells cause mayhem. The characters ultimately decide they must have dreamed the chaotic series of events, yet all find themselves changed by the experience. "Shakespeare has purposely made this all a jumble," said director Claire Eye, a faculty member in the department of stage and screen. "Shakespeare’s point is that you can’t put logic into who you fall in love with." Eye set the play in Depression-era Appalachia because it was a time when people craved laughter, and the play reminds her of qualities of this region. "There’s such a beauty to the music and the people here," Eye said. The play’s music, dance, costumes and set will evoke Appalachia, and while the language will be Shakespeare’s original, the pronunciation will be in a Southern dialect – a natural fit because "Shakespeare’s writing is very musical," Eye said. The cast includes: - Titania, queen of the fairies – senior Dayna Damron of Valdosta, Ga. - Oberon, king of the fairies – junior Jack Watson of Asheville - Demetrius – senior Jon Coward of Titusville, Fla. - Lysander – senior Nathanial Mason of Bryson City - Hermia – junior Christina DeSoto of Charlotte - Helena – senior Amanda Pisano of Candler Puck – freshman Peter O’Neal of Raleigh - Bottom the Weaver – Peter Savage of Asheville, a faculty member in the department of stage and screen The play is part of the College of Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage theater series and recommended for ages 12 and older. Sunday’s showing also is part of the 2009-10 Galaxy of Stars Series. Tickets cost $20 for the general public, $5 for students and $15 for WCU faculty and staff and people older than 60. To purchase tickets, visit the FAPAC box office or call the box office at (828) 227-2479 for Visa and MasterCard orders. Order tickets for Thursday through Saturday nights here, and Sunday afternoon here. online here. Labels: asheville, events, performing arts, western carolina Friday, October 23, 2009 Maura Michelle Garcia Comes to Diana Wortham Theatre11:09 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Art Museum is pleased to present a performance of The Little People by MIXED BLOOD WOMAN at Diana Wortham Theatre at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 10, 2009
MIXED BLOOD WOMAN is a contemporary dance theater company founded by Maura Michelle Garcia. Garcia performs her original multi-media piece that explores the world of the ancient Cherokee fairies, the Yvwi Tsvsdi or “little people,” and the having, loosing and reclaiming of traditional Cherokee beliefs and a conscious Native identity. "We’re thrilled to host Maura Michelle Garcia in conjunction with the Museum’s exhibition of contemporary Cherokee carvers. Maura is a contemporary dancer and choreographer of Cherokee descent and this is a wonderful opportunity to connect two different art forms that both relate to the past and continue the dialogue of what it means to be Cherokee today," says Nancy Sokolove, Asheville Art Museum Adult Programs Manager. Garcia has recently been awarded a studio residency through the Charolotte Street Foundation’s Urban Culture Project in Kansas City, MO. Tickets are available at the Diana Wortham Theatre Box Office, by calling 828.257.4530 Labels: art, asheville, events, performing arts Monday, October 19, 2009 Grove Park Inn & Spa Teams Up with BMW for Ultimate Test Drive1:16 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa invites guests to take the ultimate road trip! For a limited time this fall, participants can take their turn behind the wheel of the Ultimate Driving Machine, while staying at the ultimate mountain retreat. The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa has teamed up with BMW to offer a BMW Blue Ridge Driving Package. As part of the deal, guests will spend an afternoon cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway in a brand new BMW with a full tank of gas – the ultimate test drive.
Guests will receive a $50 Grove Park Inn gift card, breakfast daily and a choice of select BMW models for an extended test drive. Gift cards may be used to prepare a gourmet lunch basket to go at Tastings of Grove Park or add on a luxurious treatment at Grove Park’s world-class spa to experience the ultimate in relaxation. This year's selection of cars includes the Z4 Roadster, the 128i Convertible, the 335Ci Convertible, the 750Li, X5d (diesel), the X6 and the MINI Cooper S. Selection of test drive vehicles are subject to change without notice. The BMW Blue Ridge Driving Package includes: Two nights of accommodations, breakfast daily, a $50 Grove Park Inn gift card and one three hour BMW test drive. Labels: asheville, events, Grove Park Inn
UNC Asheville to Hold Third Annual Math Literacy Summit1:09 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Math skills have the power to change young lives, so argues noted mathematician and University of Arizona professor William Velez. He will tell his own story in a keynote address at UNC Asheville's Third Annual Math Literacy Summit. The summit, aimed at K-12 teachers, parents and students, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at UNC Asheville’s Highsmith University Union. The day's activities will include the talk by Velez as well as a number of workshops. Refreshments and free childcare will be provided. The event is free and open to the public.
The summit will begin with the keynote address by Velez, entitled "Mathematics Changed My Life," at 10 a.m. In the talk, he will describe his struggle with college mathematics as a student, and his decision to persevere and overcome those challenges. Velez works to promote mathematics and increase the number of mathematics majors among Hispanics and Native Americans. He is one of the founding members of the Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science, and has served as its president. "If our society is to survive and prosper, we have to produce a mathematically literate society," Velez said. "I have decided to dedicate the final years of my academic life to convince our students that mathematics is relevant, that it is fascinating, and that students arriving on campus should increase the mathematical content of their course work. It is important that parents, K-12 teachers and university mathematicians understand how critical mathematics is for our students and for our communities.",/p> Eight workshops will follow Velez's talk. The workshops will address credit fundamentals, credit reports and scores, health connections to math and statistics, mart and art, and technology. A special session for parents will also be offered on helping students with math homework. Two workshops on credit will be offered in both English and Spanish. The event is sponsored by the UNC Asheville Mathematics Department's Asheville Initiative for Math (AIM) with support from RBC Bank and the AT&T Foundation. AIM's mission is to promote excellence in math education and universal math literacy in the Asheville region. Labels: asheville, events, UNCA Wednesday, October 14, 2009 City Hosts Business Forum on ARRA Opportunities10:37 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The City of Asheville is partnering with regional business support agencies to host a forum on the impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) on businesses Thursday, October 15, at the Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College’s Enka campus.
Representatives from various agencies involved in business development will be on hand to provide information on services available to business owners. Participating agencies include: the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, the U.S. Small Business Administration, the A-B Tech Center for Business & Technology Incubation, the Small Business and Technology Development Center, Asheville SCORE, Mountain BizWorks, and the Procurement Technical Assistance Counselor Office, among others. In addition to providing information throughout most of the day, service providers will take part in two panel discussions. The first panel discussion, "An Overview of the Recovery Act and Accessing Contracting Opportunities," will take place from 10-11 a.m. followed by "Current Loan Opportunities," at 1:30-2:30 p.m. "The city is hosting this event to make sure local businesses understand how to participate in government contracting and can take advantage of any opportunities that become available under the economic stimulus program," said Brenda Mills, the city's ARRA project manager. "We also want to make information about other business support services widely available, even those that exist outside of ARRA." The event will take place at the A-B Tech Enka campus’s Haynes Conference Center with opening remarks delivered at 9:45 a.m. The forum will close at 3:30 p.m. Attendance is free of charge and open to the public. For more information, contact Brenda Mills at (828) 259-8050 or bmills@ashevillenc.gov Labels: asheville, buncombe county, events, government
Four Additional Early Voting Sites to Open in Asheville10:27 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Additional early voting sites in north, south, east and west Asheville will open October 24 – 31. Sites will be open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. On October 31 only, the sites will be open 8 a.m.-1 p.m. The additional sites will supplement the current downtown Asheville site at 189 College St.
City Council voted to fund the additional sites at its September 8 meeting in order to add more opportunities for the community to participate in the election. The new locations are: • North Asheville Branch Library, 1030 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 28804 • South Buncombe Branch Library, 260 Overlook Rd., Asheville, 28803 • City of Asheville – Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Recreation Office in east Asheville, 72 Gashes Creek Rd., Asheville, 28805 • West Asheville Branch Library, 942 Haywood Rd., Asheville, 28806 All registered voters are eligible to vote during this time. Same day registration will be available at all early voting sites for residents who are not registered. Same day registration allows residents to register and vote on the same day. For election information, call Buncombe County Election Services at 250-4200 or visit http://www.buncombecounty.org/governing/depts/election/. Labels: asheville, election, events, government Monday, October 12, 2009 Grove Park Adds New Event to National Gingerbread Competition12:00 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Celebrate the National Gingerbread House Competition at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa with a new “Stories of Gingerbread” tour for 2009. Each year, gingerbread artists from around the country compete in the annual competition. Now for the first time, guests will be taken behind the scenes of the popular holiday event to learn how the intricate homes are constructed, what materials were used in the designs, and other special tidbits that make the National Gingerbread House Competition a treat for people of all ages.
Guests who sign up for the "Stories of Gingerbread" tour will receive a special, commemorative lapel pin that is sure to become a collector’s item. "Stories of Gingerbread" tours will be held at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The cost for the special tour is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. With these fanciful entries on display throughout the resort, guests will enjoy sugar and spice and everything nice! The "Stories of Gingerbread" tours begin November 23, 2009. For more information or to reserve a spot, call 828-252-2711, ext. 409 Labels: asheville, events, Grove Park Inn
UNC Asheville Athletics & Malaprop's to Host Roy Williams Book Signing9:57 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Malaprop's Bookstore/Café and the UNC Asheville Athletics Department will present a book signing with UNC Tar Heels Men's Basketball Coach Roy Williams.
Coach Williams will be at UNC Asheville's Justice Center on Sunday, Decemeber 13th from 1:30-2:30 to promote his new book HARD WORK: A Life On and Off the Court. Malaprop's is donating a portion of the sales to the UNC Asheville Student-Athlete Scholarship Fund. The book-signing is first come, first served, and only for those with a Malaprop's "Hard Work" receipt. HARD WORK can be pre-ordered from Malaprop's Bookstore/Café in downtown Asheville. Books can also be purchased at the Justice Center on Dec. 13. For more information, you can contact: Malaprop's Bookstore/Café, 55 Haywood St., Asheville, N.C., 28801 at (828)254-6734. Labels: asheville, books, events, UNCA Wednesday, October 7, 2009 Biltmore Celebrates Annual Christmas Event, Nov. 6 - Jan. 212:20 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - One hundred fourteen years ago this Christmas Eve, George Washington Vanderbilt first opened Biltmore House to family and friends. Vanderbilt's legacy for legendary hospitality lives on today and especially during the holiday season when Biltmore House is elaborately decorated for Christmas, offering guests a glimpse of what it may have been like to be one of his guests during that special holiday season in 1895.
Known for being one of the largest holiday displays in the Southeast, Biltmore House and the surrounding 8,000 acres of the estate will celebrate its annual Christmas at Biltmore, Nov. 6, 2009, through Jan. 2, 2010. For ticket and booking information, call 877-BILTMORE or visit www.biltmore.com. As in years past, the event will feature 100 decorated Christmas trees; hundreds of wreaths and bows; hundreds of poinsettias; 30,000 lights in the house with another 150,000 lights used around the estate; 10,000 feet of fresh garland; and more than 25,000 ornaments. Biltmore House's holiday centerpiece, a 34-foot Fraser fir, spends the holidays in the 72-foot high Banquet Hall, adorned with lights and surrounded by hundreds of brightly packaged gift boxes. The Biltmore House front lawn will glow with a lighted 55-foot Norway spruce, surrounded by eight "islands" of smaller lighted trees and nursery shrubs. Christmas at Biltmore Christmas at Biltmore during the daytime includes tours of Biltmore House, the Gardens, the Winery with complimentary wine tasting, River Bend Farm and Barnyard. Inside Biltmore House, the Banquet Hall organ will serenade guests with music of the season. Candlelight Christmas Evenings Candlelight Christmas Evenings, where luminaries and a brilliant display of twinkling lights on the Front Lawn set the tone for tours of Biltmore House, requires separate entry. New this year will be ballroom dancers in vintage costume gliding across the floor in the Winter Garden. A story teller will regale visitors with readings from traditional holiday tales such as "The Little Match Girl," "The Gift of the Magi" and Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Choirs will perform European carols, with musicians providing seasonal music. Get Inspired by Biltmore Decor The restoration and preservation of the magnificent Louis XV Suite in Biltmore House has inspired this year's holiday decor theme. Guests who come to Biltmore before diving into their own holiday decorating can't help but pick up tips and ideas. In fact, Biltmore staff will give free holiday seminars on how to create Vanderbilt-inspired decorations for their own homes. Reservations for the seminars are not required; however, space may be limited so guests should arrive early. Here is the seminar schedule: - Deck the Halls, daily, Nov. 6-22: Biltmore's Floral Displays staff will give decorating tips for the home. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Biltmore House Library Den. - Centerpieces for Holiday Entertaining, daily, Nov. 6-Jan. 2: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at A Gardener's Place in the Conservatory. - Decorating a Christmas Wreath, daily, Nov. 6-Jan. 2: Learn how to turn an ordinary silk Christmas wreath into an elegant and interesting design. 1 and 3 p.m. at A Gardener's Place in the Conservatory. - Red Wine and Chocolate, daily, Nov. 6-Jan. 2: Discover why chocolate and red wine is a match made in heaven by pairing Biltmore Estate wine with several varieties of chocolate. 2, 3, 4 and 6 p.m. at the Winery. Give the Gift of a Memory Christmas at Biltmore is the perfect gift that families can give themselves. With the estate transformed into a magical wonderland, families will create memories to last a lifetime. "Family" is an unofficial theme at Biltmore this year since one of four rooms that opened to the public in Biltmore House for the first time was where two generations of the Vanderbilt family were actually born. Across Biltmore Holiday hospitality extends across the entire estate. Biltmore Winery offers self-guided tours and complimentary wine tastings. Santa Claus will visit River Bend Barn on Saturdays, Nov. 7-Dec. 20. Guests may enjoy a festive meal at Bistro, Deerpark Restaurant, Stable Cafe or The Dining Room at Inn on Biltmore Estate. Guests looking to extend their stay at Biltmore, the four-star Inn offers several packages for holidays, including special New Year's Eve packages. Biltmore boasts retail shops, all perfect for holiday gift shopping. Other activities include taking a cozy horse and carriage ride (blankets provided) and exploring acres of landscaped gardens. Labels: asheville, Biltmore Estate, events Friday, October 2, 2009 Asheville Sister Cities to Host International Dinner11:28 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Sisters Cities will host its International Dinner on Saturday, October 10 beginning at 6:30pm at the Hellenic Center on Cumberland Avenue.
Each of Asheville’s six sister city committees will present a course as well as entertainment for the meal: Appetizer course and Russian entertainment – Vladikavkaz, Russia; soup course and African entertainment – Osogbo, Nigeria; main course and Greek entertainment – Karpenisi, Greece, salad course and Mexican entertainment – San Christobal and Valladolid, Mexico; and dessert course and French entertainment – Saumur, France. A raffle will also be held during the International Dinner for gift baskets representing each of Asheville’s sister cities. Tickets are just $35 for the dinner and include a glass of champagne and the full meal. For more information, visitashevillesistercities.org or call 828-253-7083. Also, on Friday, October 2, Asheville Sister Cities will open an art show by students from children from Asheville’s six sister cities. The opening coincides with the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association’s October Art Walk. The show features art depicting the theme "Me and My Family."
Asheville Tourists Calling on All 'Chiliheads'11:21 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Tourists have a few openings for both contestants and vendors for the team's Inagural Fall Festival and Chili Cook-off, which will be held at McCormick Field on Saturday, October 3, from noon until 5 p .m.
The cook-off competition will be held in the Pepsi Party Pavilion and is limited to 20 individual and 20 restaurants. The entry fees are $35 for individuals and $50 for restaurants. The coveted "Best Chili in WNC" title will be awarded, and there will be three cash prizes of $300 each for the individual winner, the restaurant winner and the fans' choice award. "The initial response has been outstanding, but we still have a handful of openings for both individuals and restaurants," said Mike Bauer, exectuive director of the Tourists and Palace Baseball. "We plan on having a lot of fun, because we believe chili cannot be defined. Whatever you call chili, we call chili, regardless of whether or not it has beans and meat or is red, white or any other color." Vendor booths are also available for $50. Arts and crafts artisans, exhibitors from local businesses and vendors of all varieties are invited to participate. Booths will be located along the warning track of the outfield, with each vendor receiving a 12' x 12' space. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tables, chairs and other needs. Music will be provided throughout the event, beginning with the Jamie Pelfrey Band playing country hits at noon. The Sharkadelics will take the stage at 1:45 p.m. with their popular set of classic rock hits before Mighty McFly starts playing top 40 hits from the 1980s and 1990s at 3:30 p.m. Numerous other events will also be held, including a pumpkin drawing contest and an ice cream eating contest. >Tickets for the Tourists Fall Festival and Chili Cook-off are on sale at the McCormick Field box office as well as ticketmaster.com. Cost for the event is $10 for adults, $5 for children age 5-12, and free for youngsters age four and under. For more information or to register for the Asheville Tourists Fall Festival and Chili Cook-off, call the Tourists front office at (828) 258-0428. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, restaurants, tourists
NC Arboretum Features Brilliant Blooms at Chrysanthemum Show10:55 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC – The North Carolina Arboretum is ablaze with color in fall, and the North Carolina Chrysanthemum Society’s Annual Show, held October 17 and 18, is a perfect occasion to celebrate the fall foliage season.
This year will be very special, as the local chapter hosts the National Chrysanthemum Society Annual Show. Some 200 exhibitors from all over the country are expected to exhibit exceptional blooms and displays in addition to the normal excellent presentation made by the local chapter. Expect to see tree and cascade exhibits as well as displays of chrysanthemums, bonsai, educational exhibits, and a special section on photography. On Saturday afternoon, October 17, visitors are invited to enjoy talks on the North Carolina Chrysanthemum Society’s “Outreach to Schools” program. This program, presented by the local mum chapter, is designed to encourage local high school student participation in growing and showing chrysanthemums and has met with significant success. A program on how to grow mum bonsai as well as mums in miniature will be presented by a national Chrysanthemum Society expert on mum bonsai. The popular annual show showcases hundreds of chrysanthemum blooms in vibrant and varied colors. The exhibits will be judged by National Standards by expert Accredited National Chrysanthemum judges from all over the United States and Canada, by strict NCS standards and highlights the exceptional variety in size, shape and color of these popular fall flowers. The show is a perfect opportunity to learn more about how to grow display or show quality chrysanthemums. Guests to The NC Arboretum will be able to enjoy the shows and flower sales as well as trail walks, family activities, and exhibits. The Chrysanthemum Show is free for Arboretum Society members or with the standard parking fee ($6 per personal motor vehicle). Visitors are encouraged to explore the Arboretum’s 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, engaging exhibits, and bountiful opportunities to connect with nature. For information, call 828.665.2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org. The mission of The North Carolina Arboretum is to cultivate connections between people and plants. The North Carolina Arboretum is located next to the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance at Milepost 393. From I-26, take Exit 33 and follow Blue Ridge Parkway signs for two miles to the entrance ramp. Arboretum grounds are open 7 days a week. Property hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., November-March and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., April-October. Labels: asheville, events, flowers, nc arboretum, parkway Wednesday, September 30, 2009 Asheville Seeks Public Participation in Recycling Contest12:58 PM ASHEVILLE, NC - The City of Asheville is participating in the Cans for Cash City Recycling Challenge. The contest, sponsored by The United States Conference of Mayors, Keep America Beautiful, and Novelis Corporation, challenges cities across the country to promote citizen participation in the collection of aluminum beverage cans.Asheville will compete with other cities of the same size for up to $5,000 in awards. Awards will be used to support recycling efforts through local education and awareness programs. Approximately 50 billion aluminum cans end up in landfills each year. Recycling aluminum beverage cans reduces waste in our landfills and helps create a sustainable environment. The Challenge starts October 1 and ends October 31, 2009. Recycle those aluminum cans! For more information about the Challenge or drop-off center locations, go to www.ashevillenc.gov/sanitation or call 251-1122.Labels: asheville, events, government, recycling Monday, September 28, 2009 The Grove Park Inn & Spa Introduces Special Package for Parents-To-Be3:42 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa is introducing the perfect getaway for parents-to-be. The historic resort provides the perfect setting for one last relaxing getaway before the arrival of new family members. Expectant parents are invited to rest, rejuvenate and reconnect before entering (or re-entering) parenthood with The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa Parents-to-be Babymoon Retreat Package.
Whether you’re welcoming your first child, your fifth, or adopting, this package includes everything you’ll need to relax and prepare for the arrival of your little one. Enjoy accommodations, breakfast daily, a special Grove Park Inn gift basket and discounts on dining and spa. Mom also gets her choice of a Mother-to-Be Wrap or a Maternity Massage at our world-class Spa and dad gets either a Spa Day Pass or a round of golf on our acclaimed Donald Ross course. The Parents-to-be Babymoon Retreat Package includes: -Two nights of accommodations -Breakfast daily, your choice of the Blue Ridge Dining Room’s lavish buffet or In Room Dining -Mom’s Choice: Mother-to-Be Wrap or Maternity Massage -Dad’s Choice: Spa Day Pass or 18 Holes on our Donald Ross Golf Course Grove Park Inn gift basket -20% off a treatment at our world-class Spa, excluding Nail Treatments and Saturday appointments -20% off dinner for two at your choice of Horizons, The Sunset Terrace or Blue Ridge Dining Room. If your plans for a little one include adoption, our reservations specialists will be glad to customize a package to suit your needs. For more information, please contact The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa at 800.438.0050 or 828.252.2711; visit www.groveparkinn.com, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ewgrove and Facebook at www.facebook.com/groveparkinn. Labels: asheville, events, Grove Park Inn
Board of Elections Seeking Poll Workers2:37 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Buncombe County Board of Elections is partnering with local schools and institutions to institute a poll worker recruitment program in Buncombe County. This program is an effort to ensure better representation of young citizens, and citizens with diverse backgrounds in future elections.
Despite an impressive record of professionally-run elections in our county, it should be noted that the average age of active poll workers in Buncombe County was 60 years of age in 2008. Recruits will be offered the opportunity to serve as poll workers in one of the two elections scheduled to take place in the fall of 2009. Other local institutions participating in this program include A-B Tech, UNC-Asheville, Montreat College, and Western Alliance Center for Independent Living. Buncombe County Elections (2009) * October 6th - Asheville Primary * November 3rd - General Municipals Responsibilities: Assistants must report to the precinct to which they have been assigned by 6:30 a.m. and are required to remain at the precinct until after the polls close at 7:30 p.m., and all votes have been counted. Assistants are also required to study educational materials provided by the county board of elections office and may be trained to check voter's registration or to demonstrate the use of voting systems. Compensation Election Day Service $115.00 Training (if required) $15.00 Total $130.00 For more information on serving as a poll worker please contact the Buncombe County Board of Elections at (828) 250-4200, or visit the website Board of Elections For other questions on the College Poll Worker Recruitment Program please contact the program coordinator, Sami Disu, at (828) 275-4908 or email sami.disu@buncombecounty.org. Labels: asheville, buncombe county, election, events, schools
'Peanuts Pumpkin Patch' Returns to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad2:26 PM
BRYSON CITY, NC - PEANUTS™ The Great Pumpkin Patch Express returns to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for 2009. As the leaves are turning in October and pumpkins are ready to be carved, Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Snoopy return to the GSMR Pumpkin Patch October 2, 2009. The excursions, which are themed after Charles M. Schulz’s classic story "It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown," will be departing from the Bryson City Depot October 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25. Friday departures will be at 3:00pm. Saturday and Sunday departures will be at 11:30am and 3:00pm.
Guests will hear a narration of Schulz’s "It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" as the train travels to the Pumpkin Patch. Upon arrival, passengers will be greeted and have a photo opportunity with Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Snoopy. Activities to enjoy at The Great Pumpkin Patch will include: campfire marshmallows, a coloring station, temporary tattoos, trick or treating, and a bouncy train. The children can also navigate through a giant hay bale maze. Other activities include hay rides, bobbing for apples, apple cider or apple juice, and treats. There will be plenty of PEANUTS™ merchandise at the Smoky Mountain Trains gift shop! Each child will also select their own small pumpkin from The Great Pumpkin Patch to take home. For more information and reservations please call 800-872-4681. Smoky Mountain Trains Museum admission is included with all train excursion tickets. Without train excursion admission is $9.00 for Adults and $5.00 for Children. Labels: asheville, events, trains
UNCA Men's Soccer Team Loses 3-111:09 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Kentucky scored three goals in the second half to record a 3-1 victory over visiting UNC Asheville Sunday afternoon at Wildcat Stadium.
The Bulldogs had scored in the 50th minute of the second half to grab a 1-0 lead on a goal from Bryan Bartels. David Wood picked up an assist to give Asheville a lead over the nationally-ranked Wildcats. But Kentucky (7-1-0) quickly struck for two goals. The Wildcats tied the match up when Jase Griffiths scored in the 53rd minute. One minute later, Josh McCrary scored to give the home team a 2-1 lead. Kentucky iced the match with a goal from Chad Haggerty in the 82nd minute. The Wildcats had a 23-5 advantage in shots. Asheville plays again this Tuesday afternoon at Greenwood Field when the Bulldogs host East Tennessee State starting at 4 p.m. Labels: asheville, events, soccer, sports, UNCA
WNC Nature Center to Celebrate 'Hey Day'10:36 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Come to Hey Day, on Saturday, October 10th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the WNC Nature Center, 75 Gashes Creek Road in East Asheville. We’ve made the event a little greener with the addition of demonstrations on solar energy, chicken tractors, sustainable agriculture and water catchment. While being educated, families can still enjoy our special visiting animals and the following local entertainers:
- Jay Brown (10 a.m. – 11 a.m.) Founding member of the old time, swing band Lazybirds, Jay has toured throughout the southeast and as far as Alaska and has performed at festivals such as Merle Fest, Bele Chere and the Rhythm & Roots Reunion. He has shared the stage with artists including Doc Watson, Ritchie Havens, Gillian Welch and Sam Bush. - Mountain Thunder Cloggers (11 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.) dance to many types of music - from Bluegrass & Country to 80s/Pop/Hip-Hop. A family-oriented team, they encourage the families watching them to join in! - Haw Creek String Band (11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.) Whoop it up to the music of the Haw Creek String Band, featuring banjoist Brad Searson and ole time fiddler Bob Hill - Forge Mountain Cloggers (12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.) LOVE to clog and they bring smiles and energy to their audiences. John Bowers and David Ray (guitar/mandolin) (1:30 – 2 p.m.) play a mellow alternative country genre and play weekends only.
Sherry Lynn and the Mountain Friends Band (2 - 3 p.m.) play acoustic country and contemporary bluegrass. This is a strong team that combines fine musicianship and pure joy, giving audiences a highly entertaining show. Mark DeVerges (3 p.m. to 4 p.m.) is a true balloon artist. He will create a massive custom object/animal/creature right before the audience with the help of many volunteers in a way that incorporates science, education, and visual art! Following the show, Mark will amaze the kids with his award winning balloon twisting! Admission is $9 for adults, $5 for children, and FREE to Members of Friends of the Nature Center. Scrumptious food will be available at the Classroom Café onsite, so families can spend the whole day! This year’s generous Hey Day Gold level sponsors include Animal Hospital of Reems Creek, Harrington Electric Company and Dr. Ryan Haldeman, Orthodontist. Silver level sponsors include ABC Pediatrics, Allergy Partners of Asheville, Steven Cahan, Eye M.D., Greenworks Healing Center, Doug Sherry with Preferred Properties and the Toy Box. Media sponsors include Advantage Printing, Mountain Xpress and WOXL-FM. Hey Day will be filled with fun for the whole family. Events include pony rides (extra $), weaving and spinning demonstrations, soapmaking, crafts, face painting($), a clown show, The Rainbow and You – a special storyboard performance, watercolor painting, pumpkin painting (extra $) and the always popular cake walk (extra $). Visiting animals include rescue Llamas, Fjord Horses and Miniature Ponies. Enjoy educational exhibits from the Asheville Fire Department, Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, Ashevillage, a chicken tractor expert, Doubletree Farm, Rainbow Recycling (inventors of the Recycling Stomp!), Riverlink, Greenworks, Higher Ground Gutter Cleaners and Sundance Power Systems.All proceeds benefit the Friends of the WNC Nature Center’s College Summer Internship program. The Friends’ mission is to support the programs, facilities and the residents of the Western North Carolina Nature Center, which showcases the fauna and flora of the southern Appalachian region. The Nature Center’s mission is to educate the public about the flora and fauna of Western North Carolina and foster an interest in the conservation of native plants and animals. . The Center is operated by the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department of the City of Asheville. For more information on the Friends or Hey Day, contact Sarah Oram, Director, at (828) 298-5600 ext. 308 Labels: art, asheville, children, events, nature, outdoors Thursday, September 24, 2009 Annual Greek Festival Happening this Weekend2:27 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - This weekend, Martin Luther King Jr. Park will host Asheville’s 23rd annual Greek festival. The festivities will take place from Friday the 25th to Sunday the 27th and include everything Greek from food to dancing and music. On Friday and Saturday the festival will go from 11am until 9pm and 11am to 4pm on Sunday. Members of the Asheville Greek community, particularly the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, will be directly involved in the food selections.
The celebration will be held in a festival style. Guests can attend for free and spend between $7 and $14 on food. The selection of food will include spanakopita and baklava in addition to a vast selection of other pastries and treats. Funds raised from the festival will go to the Holy Trinity Church as well as certain local charities. The Greek Festival promises to bring traditional Greek foods, culture and hospitality to local residents and should deliver. Come down to Martin Luther King Jr. Park this weekend and help celebrate Greek culture in Asheville. Labels: asheville, events, festivals Wednesday, September 23, 2009 YWCA Hosts Annual Black & White Gala, October 110:33 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The YWCA of Asheville’s fifth annual Black & White Gala will be held on Thursday, October 1, at 7:00 pm at the Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave.
This FUN evening will feature silent and live auctions, food from local restaurants, and high energy dance music by Westsound. Festive black and white attire is encouraged. All event proceeds will go to support the programs of the YWCA of Asheville. Tickets are only $40/each or two for $75. PURCHASE TICKETS HERE. Labels: asheville, events, restaurants, ywca
Occasional and Asheville Community Theatres Present 'Return of an Angel'10:19 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Asheville’s award winning Occasional Theatre and Asheville Community Theatre will co-present Sandra Mason’s riveting hit drama, Return of an Angel, in recognition of the 80th anniversary of the publication of Thomas Wolfe’s seminal novel, Look Homeward, Angel. With special permission from the Thomas Wolfe estate, Mason’s powerful play uses Wolfe’s own words to bring to life the “love – hate” relationship that Asheville had with its most famous son, Thomas Wolfe. Chris Morton, Operations/Interpretation Manager for the Thomas Wolfe Memorial said, "We are very pleased Occasional Theatre and ACT are once again bringing this wonderful play to the community."
The world premiere of the play took place at ACT's Heston Auditorium, adjacent to the Thomas Wolfe Memorial, during the 2007 Thomas Wolfe Festival. Each of the three performances played to nearly full houses and brought audience members to their feet, including Wolfe Festival attendee, Jan Hensley from Greensboro who wrote: "I was just entranced with the play, with the actors, with the set, the lighting, the musicians… it was all professionally done. I can only hope that you will bring it back to Asheville again and again.” Producer Brenda Lunsford Lilly added, "After the performances last year many audience members, including City Council Member Robin Cape, left the theatre and immediately walked over to the Thomas Wolfe Memorial." In 1929, not everyone in Asheville was thrilled with the newfound fame brought to them by Wolfe's novel. Many in the town thought that Thomas Wolfe had exposed them to the world, warts and all. Of course now, Look Homeward, Angel is known for its compelling story of time lost, not the salacious gossip.The Occasional Theatre is dedicated to bringing professional, premiere productions of plays – in particular plays written by North Carolina playwrights – to audiences. Over the years it has produced theatre in both Los Angeles and New York and now is based in Asheville. It is delighted to be partnering again with Asheville Community Theatre and will be donating a portion the ticket sales to the Wolfe Memorial. Sponsors for this production include PLI, Wake Robin Farm Breads, and Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar. Return of an Angel will run October 2-11 with performances on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 7:30pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30pm. All performances will be held at Asheville Community Theatre at 35 East Walnut Street in downtown Asheville.. Tickets are $22.00 for adults, $19.00 for seniors and students. Tickets are available online, by phone at the ACT box office (828-254-1320), or in person at the ACT box office, which is located on site at the theatre and is open from 10am-4pm Tuesdays - Saturdays. Labels: asheville, events, performing arts
The Grove Park Inn to Sponsor Holiday Fireworks9:37 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Asheville City Council has voted to accept a $40,000 donation from The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa to pay for fireworks during the upcoming holiday season. “Seasonal Sizzle at Seven” is a business stimulus campaign centered around three firework programs to be fired off at 7:00 P.M. on the first three Saturdays in December in downtown Asheville. This campaign will encompass the first 19 days of December with various customer oriented specials. The goal is to stimulate the local economy during the holidays.
"This is the second year we have sponsored the Seasonal Sizzle at Seven, and we believe it is a valuable economic tool for the local business community," said Ron Morin, Executive Director of Operations at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa. "Local merchants have told us that Seasonal Sizzle at Seven was very good for business last year because it brought more people to the downtown area for shopping and dining. We believe everyone will benefit again this year." In addition to the free fireworks sponsored by The Grove Park Inn Spa & Resort, Asheville residents and holiday visitors will also enjoy live entertainment, seasonal specials at local restaurants, and extended hours of evening shopping in downtown Asheville’s eclectic boutiques and craft galleries. Labels: asheville, events, Grove Park Inn, restaurants, retail Friday, September 18, 2009 Reel Rock Film Festival Comes to Asheville Pizza and Brewing11:51 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - On October 1 at the Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company, the fourth annual REEL ROCK Film Tour will launch the year's most exciting climbing and
adventure films.
Presented by WINDSTOPPER and THE NORTH FACE, the REEL ROCK tour is the largest international climbing celebration delivering to audiences in over 100 cities around the world. More than just film screenings, REEL ROCK shows are festive events where climbers and outdoors lovers gather to celebrate their shared passion for adventure. Presented locally by Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company, REEL ROCK events feature the latest releases from the award-winning filmmakers at Sender Films and Big UP Productions as well as the winning short films from this year¹s REEL ROCK Filmmaking Competition. Gear giveaways, appearances by top climbers, and fundraising for non-profit organizations always add to the fun and community spirit of REEL ROCK events. Labels: asheville, events, movies, outdoors
UNCA Women's Soccer to Play in Catamount Classic11:46 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The UNC Asheville women's soccer team travels to Cullowhee this weekend to take part in the Catamount Classic. The Bulldogs play Elon on Friday starting at 5 p.m. and battle Western Carolina Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
Asheville enters the tournament with wins in three of its last four matches. The Bulldogs rallied for a 2-1 victory over Tennessee Tech on Sunday. Michele Cornish's team scored twice in the final 20 minutes to get the victory and raise the Bulldogs record to 3-2-0. However, Cornish wants a better performance this weekend than the one against the Golden Eagles on Sunday. "We found a way to win last Sunday and that was good to see but we didn't play very well," stated Cornish. "We were fortunate to only be down 1-0 in the second half and then fortunate we were able to get those two goals. We're going to have take things up a notch this weekend." Elon is 2-2-1 on the season and its two wins are over Big South teams in Coastal Carolina and High Point. Western Carolina has been playing very good soccer this year. The Lady Catamounts are 2-3-1 on the season but have narrowly missed upsetting ranked teams such as Tennessee and Dayton. "We've got our hands full with both of our opponents," commented Cornish. "Both are very good teams that have posted impressive results this year. Elon is a well-coached team that doesn't make many mistakes. Western Carolina has been impressive in its play this year. We're going to have to play smart for 90 minutes." Freshman forward Chole Mcleary-Small has been a real spark for the Bulldogs in the early part of the season. She has scored three goals and added an assist for a team-leading seven points. Two of her goals have been game-winners. Labels: asheville, events, soccer, sports, UNCA
NC Arboretum Gets Small During During the 14th Carolina Bonsai Expo11:37 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The city of Asheville, NC, transforms into the bonsai capital of the Southeast the second weekend every October when The NC Arboretum hosts the Carolina Bonsai Expo. Visitors to the show will find an abundance of miniature trees and landscapes, creatively displayed at the Arboretum’s Education Center.
This two-day horticultural extravaganza on October 10 and 11, situated in the midst of the colorful mountains during fall foliage season, features a juried display of bonsai by clubs from across a six-state region, a renowned bonsai marketplace, workshops, free demonstrations, and a popular Ikebana exhibit. The expo is also a perfect occasion to explore the Arboretum’s Bonsai Exhibition Garden, which offers a world-class display that innovatively establishes bonsai in the context of the Southern Appalachians. Now in its 14th successful year, the Carolina Bonsai Expo includes an expanded bonsai and ikebana exhibit and a live auction of bonsai plants and related materials. The two-day event features juried exhibits by bonsai enthusiasts from throughout the southeast including Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania and the Carolinas. In addition, workshops are available for those interested in learning bonsai and ikebana techniques from master artists. "Bonsai are amazing, and there’s more to it than most folks know," said Arthur Joura, The NC Arboretum’s Bonsai Curator. "The Carolina Bonsai Expo is the largest and finest bonsai show in the Southeast. Whether you know something about bonsai or not, it’s a fun and fascinating world to lose yourself in for awhile, and the Expo offers the best opportunity to do just that." People often ask Joura where they can purchase a bonsai, and he highly recommends the marketplace at the Expo, adding, "There are only two days each year to find such a diverse selection, and we are proud to host such a rare offering." Joura, a nationally recognized expert who is dedicated to making the art form of bonsai accessible to all audiences, has developed one of the finest public bonsai collections in the country since the Arboretum received its first bonsai donation in 1992. The collection is particularly distinctive because it artfully blends traditional bonsai with plants native to the Southern Appalachians such as American hornbeam, red maple and eastern white pine. There is no charge for visitors to attend the Carolina Bonsai Expo although usual parking fees apply. Visitors can purchase lunch items from the Arboretum’s Savory Thyme Café, open during Expo hours. To register or for more information about the auction, workshops and presentations, call 828-665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org Labels: art, asheville, events, nc arboretum
Film Series Art:21 Premieres at the Asheville Art Museum this October!11:29 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Art Museum is pleased to once again be the official Asheville site for the premiere of Season 5 of the exciting bi-annual film series, ART:21 — Art in the Twenty-First Century, screening Saturday and Sunday, October 10 and 11, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. each day. These screenings are free with Museum Membership or admission.
Compassion, Fantasy, Transformation and Systems are the four themes explored this year. Each one-hour episode profiles contemporary artists loosely organized around each theme. Fascinating and intimate footage allows the viewer to observe the artists at work, watch their processes as they transform inspiration into art and hear their thoughts as they grapple with the physical and visual challenges of achieving their artistic visions. Episode 1: Compassion will be screened on Saturday; Episode 4: Systems on Sunday. Compassion features artists including William Kentridge, Doris Salcedo and Carrie Mae Weems. Systems features John Baldessari, Kimsooja, Allan McCollum and Julie Mehretu. For a sneak peek of Season 5, visit www.art21.org and watch the trailer. Labels: art, asheville, events, museums Monday, September 14, 2009 'Railfest 2009' Comes to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in September6:00 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Railfest 2009, a Great Smoky Mountains Railroad festival, will return to the Bryson City Depot, September 18th through 20th.
This three day gathering for railroad enthusiasts and history buffs from around the world provides an opportunity to ride special excursions, see railroad memorabilia and experience music of the rails. Thousands return each year along with first time visitors to enjoy a taste of railroad food, storytelling, dancing, live music, special excursions and events unavailable any other time of the year. The 28th Annual Fireman’s Day highlights Railfest on Saturday. Festivities will include rides on the 1939 Dodge American La France Fire Truck, the Firecracker 5-K Run, All-Male Miss Flame Beauty Pageant, and their famous Bar-b-que. Remember to purchase a Bryson City Firemen’s Tee Shirt. Saturday festivities include special train rides, motorcars on display, seventh annual mountain craft fair with over fifty vendors, a children’s talent contest along with the winner’s jamboree, and a bouncy train for children to enjoy. The popular Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot Band will be the headliner of the event’s musical entertainment. Sunday features a Nantahala Gorge “Photo Special” Excursion. This eight-hour roundtrip excursion takes passengers from Bryson City to Andrews, and includes two photo run-by opportunities, as well as a picnic lunch. Visitors to Bryson City will enjoy gospel music throughout the day. For more information and reservations please call 800-872-4681 or visit us online at www.GSMR.com. Smoky Mountain Trains Museum admission is included with all train excursion tickets. Without train excursion admission is $9.00 for Adults and $5.00 for children. Labels: Bryson City, events, trains
Heritage Crafts Weekend at The NC Arboretum Celebrates Rich Cultural Traditions6:00 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The North Carolina Arboretum celebrates Southern Appalachian traditions during Heritage Crafts Weekend, held September 26 and 27.
The event, now in its fourth year, features craft demonstrations and juried crafts vendors, plant sales and musical performances in the Heritage Garden, Baker Exhibit Center and Education Center. Western North Carolina is known worldwide for its botanical beauty and diversity, as well as for the many wonderful handmade crafts that are borne of the mountain way of life. Vitally important to the region’s craft heritage is the close relationship between crafts and the plants used in their production. Much of the fiber, color and artistic expression of mountain craft arises from the character and nature of plants. The Heritage Garden showcases plants used in the multi-million-dollar craft industry of Western North Carolina, including those used for handmade paper and brooms, baskets and dyes. Visitors can explore the many plants that support crafts, understand how they are grown, prepared and used, and appreciate their value to the industry. New exhibits in the Heritage Garden provided increased space for exhibits and demonstrations and allows the garden to function as an outdoor classroom. Admission to Heritage Crafts Weekend is free for members or with the parking fee of $6 per personal vehicle. For more information, call 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org. Labels: asheville, crafts, events, nc arboretum Monday, September 7, 2009 Student Documentary Highlights Ciĕl as a Sustainable Development11:47 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Sustainable energy has been declared a key initiative of the European Union by the Czech Republic, the current holder of the E.U. presidency. With this focus, the E.U. solicited assistance from the United States Department of State in identifying and highlighting the most innovative sustainable projects in the U.S. Ciĕl was honored to be selected as a potential featured project, as only a few projects were chosen.
Rich Beckman, the Knight Chair of Visual Journalism at the University of Miami, worked with journalism students to create a documentary that highlights Ciĕl. Labels: asheville, events, green, real estate Sunday, September 6, 2009 Art Nouveaux Celebrates Local Photographer10:07 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Art Museum group Art Nouveaux invites you to join in on a visit to photographer Tim Barnwell’s studio Monday, September 21, 2009 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Art Nouveaux is a special group of Museum Members interested in learning about
collecting art.
The group meets several times a year for social and educational programs exploring fine art collecting and connoisseurship. The group supports the Museum’s permanent collection through the annual purchase of works of art with their yearly dues of $250 per member. Try the group for only $15 for this session! At this meeting of Art Nouveaux, the group will visit photographer Tim Barnwell’s downtown studio for an intimate evening with the artist, exploring his portraits and landscapes of Appalachia. In documenting this area for more than 25 years, Barnwell has captured the essence, beauty and rugged character of a quickly disappearing rural landscape. For more information or to join, please contact Rebecca Lynch-Maass, Membership Manager, at rlynchmaass@ashevilleart.org or 828.253.3227, ext. 114. Labels: art, asheville, events, museums Wednesday, September 2, 2009 Biltmore Estate: a One-Stop Destination for Fall Color Immersion6:00 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - For travelers short on time, but big on taking in all that fall has to offer, Biltmore is a one-stop shop for everything autumn.
With one of the most extensive fall garden displays in the Southeast (where “Mum” is the word), world-class activities, a winery, culinary temptations, the Inn on Biltmore Estate and the stunning 250-room Biltmore House, Biltmore offers an expansive – yet efficient – way to experience a full fall immersion. Cloaked in rich hues of harvest gold and burgundy, deep plums and amber, Biltmore’s 8,000 acres await exploration. Enjoy gardens bursting with thousands of colorful mums, pastoral and mountain views, vibrant colored forests and rolling countryside. At Biltmore’s Outdoor Center, activities include carriage rides, horseback riding, guided Segway tours, fly fishing and sessions at the Land Rover Experience Driving School. River Bend Farm welcomes curiosities with demonstrations of what it was like to live and work on the estate in the 1890s, including a barnyard full of farm animals to visit. Panoramic views star on guided rooftop tours of Biltmore House. Particularly dramatic during the fall, with crisp air and clear vistas all the way to Mount Pisgah, this birds-eye view of the estate is one of Biltmore’s most popular tours. Biltmore House offers an array of indoor beauty, complete with the Vanderbilt family’s original collection of furnishings, art and antiques. Four, never-before-seen rooms opened earlier this year after an extensive restoration. Known as the Louis XV Suite, these rooms are the most grand bedrooms in the house, and served as birthplace of two generations of Vanderbilts. Savor festive menus at one of the estate’s five restaurants, which celebrate a legacy of sustainable agriculture, serving fresh produce grown in the gardens right on the estate. Barbecue and Bluegrass Saturdays take place at the Winery through October, and Deerpark will feature an Appalachian Harvest Buffet. Biltmore’s award-winning winery offers tastings, tours, culinary demonstrations and seminars. And, for those looking to capture the romance of fall overnight, the Inn on Biltmore Estate offers year-round packages. There’s something for every leaf peeper at Biltmore. Visit www.biltmore.com for more information. Labels: art, asheville, Biltmore Estate, events, restaurants
Savor a Great Night at the Asheville Art Museum’s A Taste of Art + Wine6:00 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Art Museum invites you to its popular, annual event A Taste of Art + Wine held in Pack Place on Thursday, September 10, 2009 from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.For one night, enjoy all that Asheville is known for while supporting the Asheville Art Museum. Good company, fine wines, craft beers and delicious food from local restaurants will take over Pack Place. The Celebrate 60! Raffle drawing will be held at the end of the evening — so get tickets soon! Visit www.ashevilleart.org to view raffle packages and to purchase tickets. The leader in arts programming and education for Western North Carolina, the Asheville Art Museum survives through community support. All proceeds from this event will go toward films, artists’ talks, musical concerts and other outstanding public programs the Museum regularly presents. The evening will also include a silent auction, in which a limited number of unique, high-end items will be up for bid. With so much offered, a “taste” may not be enough! Ticket prices are $30 per person; $55 per couple for Museum Members and $35 per person; $65 per couple for non-Members. All tickets sold at the door are $40 per person. A Taste of Art + Wine is usually a sell out event, so reserve your tickets early by calling 828.253.3227. What a delicious idea! Labels: art, asheville, events, museums, wine Tuesday, September 1, 2009 Asheville Affiliates to Host “Fur Ball” Fundraiser for Brother Wolf Animal Rescue9:16 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - Non-profit fundraising organization The Asheville Affiliates will be hosting a benefit for Brother Wolf Animal Rescue on September 10th, 2009 at Decades Bar and Grill, from 6:30-9:30 PM. Cover price to include heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, and entertainment by Firecracker Jazz Band.Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, with all proceeds to benefit Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. Raffle and silent auction will be held, with prizes including vacation rentals, spa treatments, local art, and sports and hotel packages at The Grove Park Inn. Join us for an afterparty by Decades - cash bar available. HomeTrust Bank will be providing free parking across the street. Please leave pets at home – this is a party FOR pets, not with them! This event, along with all Affiliates events, is open to the public.,/p> RSVP on Facebook, or for more information e-mail janinebitz@yahoo.com or call 828-458-7778. Labels: art, asheville, events, pets, spa Monday, August 31, 2009 The Lexington Avenue Arts & Fun Festival Scheduled for Spetember 6th11:50 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - Arts 2 People is excited to bring you the 8th annual FREE, Lexington Ave Arts and Fun Festival. Three blocks of N. Lexington Ave will be lined with all local art, food, beer and street performers on Sunday, September 6th from 11am – 10pm between College Street and the I 240 overpass. The street will be brimming with a celebration Asheville's diverse and unique culture.Three stages and two courtyards of music and performance include rock and roll, indie pop, funk, folk, ragtime, reggae, world beats, singer songwriters, bluegrass, old time, drummers, clowns, magicians, contortionists, belly dancers, modern dancers, vaudeville actors, fire dancers, break dancers, and hula hoopers. The complete lineup will be available within the next couple of weeks; stay tuned to our emails find out more details of the day's events. LAAFF is great for the whole family. Kids will love making art, dancing, and having fun all day long. Many kids' performance acts include kids' hip hop, break dancing, modern dance, jump roping, jazz and more. The big "kids" will enjoy the ever popular bicycle jousting, local brews, an eclectic culinary and artistic experience, as well as a selection of Big People Games. Each year the festival grows larger and gets even better. We are now considered by the City to be Asheville's largest independent festival! We grew by 30% last year, and expect a similar increase this year. This is truly the festival that showcases all of Asheville's creative juices. With an attendance of about 12,000 people, LAAFF relies on community support to ensure our success each year. LAAFF is a volunteer driven event put on by and for the community. If you would like to get involved as a volunteer or as a sponsor please contact Festival Director, Frank Bloom at thunderdrums77@gmail.com.Your contribution of joining us and experiencing a fun day of creative expression will support local non-profit Arts 2 People and our many projects. Arts 2 People is devoted to promoting the role of the arts as an integral part of our culture by serving the entire community through arts outreach, bringing the arts to those in need, supporting the careers of artists, and through community cultural development. Arts 2 People's many projects include The Pritchard Park Cultural Arts Program, The REACH Educational series, The Asheville Mural Project, Moving Women, The Faces of Asheville and more. To find out more, visit www.arts2people.org. Labels: art, asheville, events, festivals, food, music
Asheville Greenworks Sponsors West Asheville Garden Stroll10:49 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - Asheville GreenWorks and WABA will be sponsoring the First Annual West Asheville Garden Stroll next month on Saturday, September 12 from 11AM-4PM. Kickoff ceremony will be held at 10:30AM at the West Asheville Library.This event is free to the community and will highlight 15 sites of interest including Vermont/Sulphur Springs (where the Cherry Tree Gardens, pictured above, are located), Falconhurst, Brucemont/Louisiana, Burton Street and East-West Asheville. There will be demonstrations by local business owners, music and food and beverages. The LaZoom Tour Bus will run between the West Asheville Garden clusters. Add the First Annual West Asheville Garden Stroll to your calendars now! For more information, visit this website: www.westashevillegardens.com. Friday, August 28, 2009 Guide Service Climbs into Asheville with Climbing Classes11:37 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - Raleigh based rock climbing and ice climbing guide service and climbing school has expanded it's climbing class offerings to climbers in Western NC by offering their Climb Outside Rock Climbing Class on September 26-27, 2009 at Looking Glass Rock NC.These classes give people the knowledge, skills, and understanding they need to begin rock climbing outside. Asheville is an ideal location for these classes because of the volume of climbing areas, and the volume of people who desire to learn how to climb outdoors but aren't sure where to get started. Students learn anchor building, rope management, knot tying, belaying, rappelling, rescue, and more. The class consists of 2 full day sessions, where the first day will be spent teaching the skills, and the second day will be spent putting the newly acquired skills into practice. The classes are open to all experience levels, and all equipment is provided. Details on the Asheville Climb Outside Rock Climbing Class can be found on the Climb Outside Website (www.ascentadventure.com). "Taking this class taught me a lot and confirmed things I had already been in the process of learning. Even though I have much more to learn it allowed me to feel confident, to go with my partner, and climb outside at my current level," expresses Chris Troisi, a Climb Outside Class participant. For an interview, or to find out more information about the classes and unique services Ascent Adventure Consultants provides, please contact Brandon Hensinger at bhensinger@ascenadventure.com or 877-254-4617. Also, visit the Ascent Adventure Consultants website to learn more. Labels: asheville, events, outdoors
Blue Ridge Parkway 75 Announces Artist Program11:03 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - The states of Virginia and North Carolina share many beautiful things – mountains and forests, farmland and coast, rich heritage and friendly towns. They also share the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway and an appreciation for the many talented artists who live along its route.Two of the most gifted artists from Virginia and North Carolina – P. Buckley Moss and Teresa Pennington, respectively – have created special works of art to commemorate the Parkway’s 75th Anniversary. Moss will unveil a new work commemorating the Blue Ridge Parkway’s 75th Anniversary at events September 11 and 12 at The Framer’s Daughter, 121 N. Main Street in Galax, VA. The artist will be at the gallery from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. September 11 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. September 12. Representatives from the Blue Ridge Parkway’s 75th committee will join her at the September 11 appearance. For further information, contact Kay Weddle at 276.236.4920 or by e-mail. The painting will be released as both a limited edition offset lithograph as well as a poster. Its unveiling coincides with the Parkway’s celebration of its 75th year September 11, 2010. The print and poster will be available after the unveiling on the P. Buckley Moss Web site www.pbuckleymoss.com and at authorized Moss dealers. In addition to Moss’s commercial success as an artist, she has worked to raise over $4 million for charitable organizations and has established the P. Buckley Moss Foundation for Children’s Education, promoting the use of art in school curriculums as a learning instrument for students with learning differences. Teresa Pennington has created four drawings in her series of limited edition giclees and lithographs. Pennington’s work will be unveiled the evening of October 9 at T. Pennington Gallery in Waynesville, NC. Pennington has also created four series of drawings for Biltmore Estate over the past 17 years. Her work has also been commissioned by the U.S. Forest Service and the Western North Carolina Diocese of the Episcopal Church Proceeds from the sale of the commemorative prints by both artists will benefit the Parkway’s 75th anniversary. Labels: art, asheville, Biltmore Estate, events, parkway Wednesday, August 26, 2009 Tourists Bounce Back in 11-9 Win4:00 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Mike Zuanich and Kiel Roling homered once more to vault the Asheville Tourists back from a five-run deficit to an 11-8 victory to open a four game series against Greensboro on Tuesday. Zuanich hit a three run homerun to tie the game 7-7 in the fifth inning and Roling smacked the go-ahead homer in the sixth. Stephen Dodson tossed three innings of relief to earn his sixth win of the year. Adam Jorgenson pitched the ninth for his league-leading 24th save of the season.
Mike Zuanich hit a three-run homer to tie the game at 7-7 in the fifth inning. Kiel Roling then delivered his 18th homerun of the season to give the Tourists an 8-7 lead. Asheville has now hit 17 homeruns in their past nine ballgames. Greensboro scored six runs in the third inning to take a 6-1 lead. Ryan Keedy and Thomas Hickman each had homeruns in the frame to make it a short night for Asheville's starter Jonathan Aristil. Aristil was removed following the third inning for Stephen Dodson out of the bullpen. Dodson (6-0) tossed three innings and allowed just one run to earn the win. Rex Brother hurled two innings and allowed a solo homerun to Thomas Hickman - his second homer of the game. Adam Jorgenson entered the ninth with a three-run lead and picked up his 24th save of the season in the 11-9 win. Scott Robinson had three extra-base hits and scored three times while Patrick Rose had a multi-hit contest as well. The Tourists collected 19 hits on Tuesday after being shutout 3-0 on Monday. The win keeps Asheville at least 2.5 games up in first place with 13 remaining on the schedule. Game two of the series vs. Greensboro will be Wednesday at 7:05. Alan DeRatt (2-5, 5.21) will go against LHP Brad Hand for Greensboro. Tickets are available by contacting the front office at 828-258-0428. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, sports, tourists
Dahlia Show Delights the Senses at The NC Arboretum3:15 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC – The rewards of spring and summer come full bloom at The North Carolina Arboretum this fall as hundreds of dahlias in rainbow colors and in widely ranging forms and sizes will be on display on September 12 and September 13.
The Carolinas Dahlia Society’s Annual Judged Show is a perfect follow-up to the May sales that provide guests with an opportunity to learn more about how to grow dahlias as well as options to buy plant starters. Guests to The NC Arboretum will be able to enjoy the shows and flower sales as well as trail walks, family activities, and exhibits. Exhibitors from five states, including commercial and amateur growers from our local mountains, upstate South Carolina, Metro-Atlanta, southeast Tennessee, southwest Virginia, and the North Carolina Piedmont, will participate. The Flower Displays will contain blossoms in every color except black, blue or green; in every size from ¾ inch to over 12 inches in diameter; in over 17 distinct forms recognized by the American Dahlia Society. Dahlia Society members will answer questions and offer advice on cultivating dahlias, and flowers will be available for purchase while supplies last. The Dahlia Show is free for Arboretum Society members or with the standard parking fee ($6 per personal motor vehicle). Visitors are encouraged to explore the Arboretum’s 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, engaging exhibits, and bountiful opportunities to connect with nature. For information, call 828.665.2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org.Labels: asheville, events, nc arboretum
CarePartners Health Services Opens New North Clinic in Reynolds Village3:09 PM
WOODFIN, NC - CarePartners new North Clinic is open for business in a brand new facility in Reynolds Village, located at 40 North Merrimon Avenue on the third floor (above the new Neighborhood YMCA at Woodfin.)
"We are very pleased with our new space. We look forward to the partnership with the YMCA and promoting wellness in this community." Edwin Gerrits, North Clinic Manager. The clinic provides physical and occupational therapy services. There is a walk-in clinic as well as vestibular rehabilitation. On Wednesday, September 9th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., the clinic will host an Open House. Light refreshments will be served and CarePartners therapists will be on hand to meet the public. For more information call (828) 281-0754. Labels: events, reynolds mountain, woodfin
A-B Tech Holds Summer Commencement2:50 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - A-B Tech Student Services Vice President Dr. Dennis King urged graduates to share their newly attained knowledge with others, as part of the responsibility that comes with success, during Summer Commencement at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.
"Charge for it (the knowledge) fairly, if you are in a position of setting fees. Give it away to the less fortunate who nevertheless need your skills. And comfort those who come to you stressed by a problem that you can solve. That's being a professional, as well as being a good person," commencement speaker King said. King also reminded the graduates to remain current and continue on a path of lifelong learning, to be open to change, to be humble and ethical, to mentor others as soon as they are able and to be a "round" person. "E. M. Forster, the renowned 20th-century author, classified fictional characters as flat or round. Flat characters are predictable, simple, one dimensional, whereas round characters are unpredictable, complex, and multi-faceted," King said. "Forster went on to say that round characters are the truly interesting ones. That truth can be taken beyond fiction and into life itself. You want to be not only a health care professional, but one who volunteers at the local homeless shelter; not only an auto mechanic, but a mechanic with a political opinion; not only a chef, but one who loves baseball. Find the outside interest that makes you a round character." During the ceremony, President Emeritus and Trustee Harvey Haynes called for a moment of silence for fellow trustee J. Herbert Coman, who died July 13. Coman's cap and gown were placed in an empty chair in his memory. A-B Tech Interim President Richard Mauney presented the Staff Member of the Year Award to Tamala Barnett, Arts and Sciences division secretary. "I am especially pleased to present this award to Tamala because she is one of our very own graduates," Mauney said. "When the Arts and Sciences dean's secretary retired a few years ago, Tamala took on those responsibilities in addition to her other ones for several months, while we hired and trained a replacement for Tamala so she could move into the vacant position." Dr. Sam Dosumu, Instructional Services vice president, awarded Continuing Education Faculty Member of the Year to Gary Crossey, a computer training instructor. One of Crossey's students who nominated him for the award wrote, "Gary not only has his finger constantly on the pulse of new technology, but more importantly, he knows how to explain it to the students and help us stay excited about the class subject matter. His teaching style is very personal and fun. He has patience and easily encourages creativity." The College had 188 students complete the requirements to earn 189 degrees and diplomas for the August graduation including a posthumous Associate in Arts degree presented to the family of Reed Ignizio, who died in a drowning accident in June. Ignizio, who would have graduated with high honors, was also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society and had received a Carolina Covenant scholarship to attend UNC-Chapel Hill. Labels: AB Tech, asheville, education, events, schools Tuesday, August 25, 2009 Barnes and Noble in Biltmore Park to Open September 2nd9:08 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Throughout the generations, stories have never ceased to thrive as they transport us, comfort us, and teach us. Whether it is a new novel or even a new cookbook that you are eager to try, readers know that the first crease in a book binding can mean that they are in store for something unforgettable. And Asheville bibliophiles are in store for just that because a new Barnes & Noble is set to open on September 2nd in Biltmore Park Town Square. The new store could not be opening at a better time. With schools gearing up for a new academic year, students and educators will love the resource section, where textbooks, study guides, and more will be available to help them get back into their fall routines. In addition, the array of calendars, office supplies, journals, and unique gifts are the perfect way to stay organized post summer vacation. As the world's largest bookseller, Barnes & Noble will boast more than 200,000 titles in your favorite book genres, music selections, DVDs, and magazines. The new store will also feature a membership program, special order service, complimentary Wi-Fi, Starbucks Cafe, and a space for year-round community events. In fact, they will kick off the festivities with a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by a friends and family preview night party on September 1st from 6 to 9 p.m., where a portion of the proceeds will go to Clear Creek Elementary School. The new store's ideal location in Town Square will also help meet the needs of customers by helping Biltmore Park become a one stop shopping destination. Located next to the newly opened Hilton Asheville and surrounded by residences, restaurants, a stadium seat movie theater, YMCA, boutiques, spas, and a variety of restaurants, visitors will enjoy spending a whole day knowing that they do not have to use their car to get from place to place. So, if there is a new must-read on your book list, be sure to mark your calendar for September 2nd, and be one of the first to explore Asheville's newest bookstore. Labels: asheville, books, events, restaurants Monday, August 24, 2009 Tourists To Sell Playoff Tickets Beginning Today at 10 A.M.12:06 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Tourists, currently in the heat of the race for the second-half Southern Division pennant in the South Atlantic League, have announced that playoff tickets will go on sale at the McCormick Field box office beginning Tuesday, August 25, at 10 a.m. The Tourists would host the first game of the Southern Divisional Championship Series against the Greenville Drive, the first-half winner, on Wednesday, September 9. The winner of the Southern Divisional Championship Series will then host the third, fourth and fifth games of the South Atlantic League Championship Series, slated for Thursday, September 17, Friday, September 18 and Saturday, September 19. All games at McCormick Field would start at 7:05 p.m. Single game playoff tickets at McCormick Field will be available beginning Monday for $9 for general admission, $12 for box seats, $42 for the Asheville Citizen-Times Clubhouse and $47 for the Bojangles Dugout Suites. Four-game playoff packages are available at a reduced rate, including $32 per general admission pack, $44 for box seats, $152 for the Asheville Citizen-Times Clubhouse and $172 for the Bojangles Dugout Suites. Senior, children and military discounts are also available at the box office. Fans who purchase or renew their season ticket packages, flex packages or mini-plans will receive playoff tickets at no cost. The number of playoff tickets will be equal to the number of seats purchased for the regular season or two per flex plan. Any money remaining from unplayed playoff games will be credited to the 2010 season. The pennant race returns to McCormick Field on Tuesday, August 25, when the Tourists and Greensboro Grasshoppers begin a four-game series, with each contest starting at 7:05 p.m. The Tourists also will host the Lexington Legends for three games, from September 1-3, which will be the final regular-season series of the slate. For additional information, contact the Tourists front office at (828) 258-0428. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, tourists Friday, August 21, 2009 Asheville Downtown Association Announces Oktoberfest10:58 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Downtown Association is excited to announce its inaugural Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 10 from 1-5pm on Wall Street. "Our Oktoberfest will mix Bavarian traditions with Asheville's eclectic vibe," says Adrian Vassallo, event organizer and ADA treasurer. He adds, "With Asheville’s recent recognition as 'Beer City USA,' the timing couldn't be more perfect to celebrate our local beer scene. Plus, Wall Street is an ideal venue for this event with its old world feel and original cobblestones." The event will feature beer tastings from local breweries including Highland Brewing, Asheville Brewing Company, Pisgah Brewing, Green Man Brewery, and French Broad Brewing Company. Many brewers are featuring seasonal ales for Oktoberfest, and will be on hand to discuss their beers. Also, Wall Street restaurants Cucina 24, Jack of the Wood, and The Market Place will be preparing authentic German food fare served with local mustard from the Lusty Monk. Entertainment will cross the Bavarian-Asheville divide as well with the traditional from The Stratton Mountain Boys and the eclectic from Asheville's own The Goodies. The Stratton Mountain Boys have brought the haunting sounds of four alphorns, happy yodeling songs, shoe slapping dances, and lively spirited Polka music to audiences across the U.S for more than 30 years. The Goodies are the epitome of Asheville's funky and diverse music scene playing a gypsy-style eclectic hard rock and funk. Their live performances are known for being theatric and vaudevillian. The entertainment doesn't stop there. Festival-goers can participate in one or more of the many fun contests including yodeling, a costume contest, a stein race, and more. Prizes will be awarded. Tickets are $25 and include beer samples and a commemorative Oktoberfest glass. Tickets will be available August 31 at ashevilledowntown.org. Space is limited, so purchase early. The Asheville Downtown Association is a membership organization committed to being the voice of downtown. Labels: asheville, beer, downtown, events, food, restaurants
Scenic Savings: Fall Color Ablaze at The NC Arboretum10:47 AMASHEVILLE, NC - Natural beauty comes in a kaleidoscope of colors each fall at The North Carolina Arboretum - a beautiful bargain at only $6 per vehicle. Vibrant colors amid trees, shrubs, and perennials delight the senses at the Arboretum. Director of Horticulture Alison Arnold notes that many colors brighten the landscape, including brilliant reds from dogwood and maple trees, blazing oranges from black gum and persimmon trees, and glittering gold from a variety of shrubs and perennials. Surrounded by the Southern Appalachian mountains and adjacent to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, the Arboretum is nestled in one of the most beautiful natural settings in America. Within its 434 acres, the Arboretum offers 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, a state-of-the-art production greenhouse, and one of the finest bonsai collections in the Southeastern United States. Engaging exhibits about science, art, and culture are featured year-round in the Baker Exhibit Center. Visitors during fall also have an opportunity to attend the Carolina Bonsai Expo, held at The North Carolina Arboretum every second weekend in October. This two-day horticultural extravaganza, situated in the midst of the colorful mountains during fall foliage season, features a juried display of bonsai by clubs from across a six-state region, a renowned bonsai marketplace, workshops, free demonstrations, and a popular Ikebana exhibit. For information, call (828) 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org. Labels: art, asheville, events, nc arboretum, parkway
YWCA Hosts Neighborhood Apprciation Day, August 29th10:23 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - The YWCA of Asheville will hold “Neighborhood Appreciation Day” on Saturday, August 29th from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm.The YWCA encourages neighbors to stop by for snacks, tours, and coupons for free swim lessons. Visitors will be able to try out fitness equipment and classes including Yoga and Cardio Circuit. Water Aerobics and family swim will be offered in the YWCA’s solar-heated pool. Labels: asheville, events, ywca
Call for volunteers for Downtown Master Plan Action Committee10:13 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - The Downtown Commission is looking for volunteers to serve on a Downtown Master Plan Action Committee. Members of the committee will work with business groups, nonprofit groups, or city staff to assist with accomplishing the goals in the Master Plan. The committee will be made up of five sub-groups: Arts and Culture; Historic Preservation; Transportation and Parking; Urban Design and Development; Downtown Management. Some of these strategies rely primarily on the private sector; in others the city is primarily responsible. It is anticipated that each sub-group will be comprised of no more than seven members.The commission is looking for individuals who have interest or expertise in the different areas (arts, historic preservation, transportation, development, downtown issues). Representatives of different sectors (businesses, property owners, residents, non-profits, churches, advocacy groups) are needed as well as people who bring collaborative skills. p>"We’re looking to cast a wide net as we did in the planning process,"said Dwight Butner, Vice-Chair of the Downtown Commission. "Anyone who is willing to help work on policy, programming or other downtown development issues and is ready to roll up their sleeves is welcome to apply. We’re excited to begin putting the plan into action."The full committee will meet periodically in addition to ongoing meetings of the working groups. The committee is expected to kickoff in late September or early October. Interested citizens should send a statement that includes their name, contact information (including mailing address), any specific skills and/or roles that they have in downtown, and an explanation of why they want to serve on the committee. This information should be sent to Sasha Vrtunski atsvrtunski@ashevillenc.gov, or faxed to 828-232-4506 or mailed to Office of Economic Development, 29 Haywood Street, Asheville, NC 28801. Deadline for submitting is Tuesday, Sept. 8. For more information contact Sasha Vrtunski at 230-1271. Labels: asheville, downtown, events Monday, August 17, 2009 Intimidators Hold Off Tourists, Salvage Split10:32 AMASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Tourists entered play on Sunday afternoon's series finale hoping to take three out of four, but could not solve the Kannapolis pitching staff, losing 7-2. Asheville managed nine hits but plated just two runs, after being held to just one run on ten hits in game three Saturday. Colorado Rockies' supplemental first round draft pick in 2009, Rex Brothers, made his debut for Asheville pitching a scoreless inning in relief. Thomas Field snapped out of a slump, going 3-for-3 with a double and a run scored, reaching base in each of his four plate appearances. Asheville had the lead early on, scoring a run in the bottom of the third inning on a Mike Zuanich sacrifice fly. The flyout gave the Tourists a 1-0 lead, and it was the sixth RBI in the four-game series for Zuanich. Kannapolis answered back with three runs in the top of the fourth. Asheville starter Alan DeRatt pitched around a few hits early on, but didn't have his best stuff, allowing three consecutive hits in the fourth before being chased from the game. Stephen Dodson came on in relief and allowed two inherited runners to score before retiring the side with the Intimidators ahead, 3-1. David Christensen delivered his second homerun of the series in the bottom of the inning, bringing Asheville to within 3-2. It was the team-leading 16th homerun of the season for Christensen, and one of his longest of the year. Stephen Dodson held Kannapolis scoreless until the seventh, when the Tourists turned to Kurt Yacko out of the bullpen. Yacko struggled, allowing four runs on five hits before getting out of the inning with Asheville trailing 7-2. Brothers made his debut in the top of the eighth, getting a groundout and a strikeout before allowing a bloop single into left field. Brothers then got catcher Luis Sierra to ground out to second base to end the frame. Asheville manufactured a great opportunity to get back in the game during the bottom of the eighth against Kannapolis reliever Kevin Asselin. Asselin hit the first two batters of the inning, Beau Seabury and Thomas Field, to get things started. Tyler Massey then smacked a base hit into left-center to load the bases with no outs. The Intimidators brought in closer Dan Remenowsky, who changed the game for Kannapolis. He struck out the side; Delta Cleary, Jr., Keil Roling, and Mike Zuanich, to leave Asheville scoreless. Remenowsky worked a 1-2-3 ninth inning to earn the save and give his club a split of this four-game series. The Tourists (30-17) will travel to West Virginia Monday to take on the Power (27-18) for a four-game series before heading to Hickory for four more. Asheville will have RHP Parker Frazier (10-7, 4.44) on the mound for game one in West Virginia. You can listen to all 140 Tourists games live on the radio at 100.7 WRES FM or streaming online at www.theashevilletourists.com. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, sports, tourists Friday, August 14, 2009 Asheville Independent Restaurant Association Hosts 'Tomato Walk'11:43 AMASHEVILLE, NC - It's local tomato season. Run away from work, head to downtown Asheville, and visit your favorite independent restaurants for tomato tastings, tomato cocktails, tomato entrees, and more during Asheville Tomato Walk. Asheville Tomato Walk, an evening organized by Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Partnership in partnership with Asheville Independent Restaurant Association (AIR), will take place Thursday, August 20 from 5:00p.m.-7:00p.m. Labels: asheville, events, restaurants
Grove Park Announces Entry Guidelines for Gingerbread House Competition11:29 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Do you have what it takes to earn gingerbread glory? The only way to find out is to get baking and enter the 17th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition taking place at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in scenic Asheville, N.C. "This event has gained national recognition since The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa held the first competition back in 1993. We now receive hundreds of entries from across the country and it has blossomed into a true holiday tradition," said Ronald E. Morin, Executive Director of Operations at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa. Judging by a professional panel takes place across four categories: Adult (18 years and older), Teen (13-17 years old), Youth (9-12 years old) and Child (5-8 years old). Entries are judged on overall appearance, originality/creativity, difficulty, precision and consistency of theme. Except for the base, the entries must be constructed entirely of edible materials. The maximum size of gingerbread houses in the competition cannot exceed two feet wide, two feet long and two feet high. The event takes over The Grove Park Inn Grand Ballroom. Contestants may deliver their gingerbread houses starting on Sunday, Nov. 15th, from 2 -8 p.m. and again on Monday, Nov. 16th, from 7-8:30 a.m. The judging begins on Nov. 16th, with the awards presented that day at 5 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. The National Gingerbread House Competition awards more than $12,000 in cash and prizes. The grand prize winner receives a $3,000 cash prize, plus a two night Club Floor stay at The Grove Park Inn & Spa Resort, complete with dinner for two and breakfast daily at the historic hotel. All contestants will receive a personalized certificate. "The judges have a very difficult time selecting a winner in each category because of the level of creativity that contestants bring to this event. Moreover, we have guests return to the Grove Park Inn year after year just to take part in the tradition of viewing these gingerbread houses during the holidays," said Heather Brannan, Special Events Manager at The Grove Park Inn. "It's truly one of my favorite times of year at the resort." Labels: asheville, events, Grove Park Inn
UNC Asheville Welcomes Freshmen11:14 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - UNC Asheville is preparing to welcome some 645 new Bulldogs to its ranks this Friday as freshmen move onto campus. Fall semester classes begin Monday, Aug. 17. "The Class of 2013 is one of the larger classes," noted Barkley Barton, senior assistant director of Admissions. "And the overall academic profile of this class is very strong – among their ranks are several valedictorians and many truly outstanding students with high grade point averages and great college entrance test scores." This new freshmen class will check into residence halls from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14. Some 80 UNC Asheville faculty, staff, alumni, upperclassmen and College for Seniors members will be on hand to help freshmen and their parents with the move. Returning students will move in on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 15-16. A highlight of the freshmen's first day on campus will be a formal convocation ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, on UNC Asheville's Quad. Initiated in 1985 at UNC Asheville, convocation is rooted in ancient academic tradition. The ceremony will include the presentation of the Class of 2013 pin to each freshman, as well as the class dogwood tree, which will be planted on campus. Sam Kaplan, associate professor of mathematics and 2009 recipient of the UNC Board of Governors' Excellence in Teaching Award, will give the keynote address. New this fall, students will have the option of choosing Religious Studies as their major field of study. The new program, under the direction of Rodger Payne, offers students classes in Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, Greek and Roman religions and a number of other courses that compliment UNC Asheville's liberal arts mission, said Payne. "Religious studies considers one of our oldest collective human experiences from a variety of academic disciplines," Payne said. "From music to mathematics, from art and politics, and beyond, each can be examined through the lens of religion. It's nearly the perfect way to encounter the liberal arts." Payne plans to continue building the program around classes that provide comparative examinations of faith traditions from around the world. Students in the sciences will find themselves in new, state-of-art laboratories in the recently opened in the Zeis Science & Multimedia Building. While a few classes were held in the $24 million building last spring, this fall will be the first semester that all science and multimedia classes and labs will be held in the new facility, located adjacent to Ramsey Library on the Quad. The University can now fully capitalize on "the collaborative learning style that showcases how we approach teaching the STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)," said Keith Krumpe, dean of Natural Sciences. "The labs are designed like labs in industry; they are all project-based so students can work in teams." A $9 million renovation to Rhoades Hall, including spaces that were previously occupied by the Chemistry and Biology departments, should be completed in 2011, giving UNC Asheville some of the best undergraduate science facilities in the Southeast, Krumpe said. When not in class, freshmen – as well as upperclassmen – will be able to enjoy free events in the Weeks of Welcome series, designed to introduce students to campus life. Events this fall include a cookout, a block party, a performance by comedian Eddie Ifft, a rock climbing trip and a leadership conference. Labels: art, asheville, education, events, music, schools, UNCA Tuesday, August 11, 2009 Save the Date - Asheville Art Museum Presents Ruth Asawa: Drawing in Space8:56 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Art Museum, celebrating its 60th anniversary, proudly presents Ruth Asawa: Drawing in Space from Saturday, September 19, 2009 to Sunday, February 7, 2010. The public is invited to an Opening Reception Friday, September 25, 2009 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.This exhibition celebrates the unique career of Ruth Asawa (1926 - ), an artist whose loopedwire sculptures and richly detailed drawings defy traditional conventions. This is Asawa’s first solo exhibition in North Carolina and features the gift of an important work of Asawa’s to the Asheville Art Museum from artist Lorna Blaine Halper. Ruth Asawa: Drawing in Space begins with the her earliest sculptures, drawings and paintings created while at Black Mountain College and highlights several signature sculptures that formed her later visual vocabulary of looped and tied forms. This exhibition considers Asawa’s connection to Western North Carolina and Black Mountain College as it places her work within a larger national context of artists who "viewed art as a way of thinking and acting." Asawa was born in 1926 in Norwalk, California, the fourth of seven children born to Japanese immigrant farmers. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, her family was interned in New Mexico and Arkansas. She attended Milwaukee State Teachers College from 1943 to 1946. In 1946, she enrolled at Black Mountain College. There she studied with Josef Albers, Buckminster Fuller and Ilya Bolotowsky. Asawa’s philosophy that "there is no separation between studying, performing the daily chores of living and creating one’s own work" permeates a life and a career that has combined success as an artist, a mother of six and a community advocate for arts education in elementary schools. Asawa’s work is included in the permanent collections of the Guggenheim Museum, the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Chase Manhattan Bank in New York, and the Oakland Museum of California, where one of her tied-wire sculptures adorns the entrance. She has received numerous awards, and has served on the San Francisco Arts Commission, the California Arts Council, the John D. Rockefeller Foundation’s Council for Museum Education in the Visual Arts and the board of the Buckminster Fuller Institute. Labels: art, asheville, events, museums Monday, August 10, 2009 Tourists Fall Short in Ninth9:04 AMLEXINGTON, KY - Kiel Roling smacked a homerun in the ninth inning but Asheville fell 7-6 on Sunday afternoon in Lexington. The Tourists (52-58, 26-15) had the potential tying run on second base in the final inning but came up short. The loss, with an idle Augusta moves Asheville 1.5 games up on the Greenjackets for first place. The homerun for Roling was his third solo homerun in as many games. Jonathan Aristil (2-7) was the losing pitcher in 4 2/3 innings of work. Aristil allowed six runs on seven hits with four strikeouts. Lexington scored three runs in the bottom of the first inning to take a 3-1 lead. Asheville tied things up in the fourth with a two-run single off the bat of Ryan Peisel. David Duncan tossed six innings and allowed four runs on eight hits in the win for Lexington. Duncan pitched around leadoff hits from Ryan Peisel and David Christensen in the sixth inning. Beau Seabury executed a sacrifice bunt moving runners to second and third. Thomas field then struck out and Scott Robinson flew out to end the inning. Asheville had opportunities but stranded nine men on base. Tyler Trice entered to relive Aritsil and tossed 2 1/3 innings. Trice's only mistake was a solo homerun to Steve Brown in the seventh inning. For Brown it was his second homer of the series and ended up being the winning run for Lexington. Asheville will play on Monday night game three of the series from Lexington. The Tourists will send Alan DeRatt to the mound at 7:05. All the action can be heard online or on the Flagship station 100.7 FM WRES. Labels: baseball, events, sports, tourists
Cliffs Members Win World Invitational Father-Daughter Tournament8:24 AM ARDEN, NC - Members of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove in Arden, NC, Keith and Michelle Black, recently won the Second World Invitational Father-Daughter Tournament at Doonbeg Golf Club in Ireland. They defeated Kieran and Orla Walshe from Doonbeg by 2 strokes in a close finish."Michelle was great," remarked Dr. Black, "she carried the old man." The 2009 Father-Daughter event held on July 30 was comprised of 24 teams from the US, Canada and Ireland. The Blacks entered the international event by winning a qualifier at The Cliffs earlier this year. Carr Golf Travel, experts in organizing golf trips to the British Isles for over 60 years, sponsored the entries into the tournament for the qualifier winners. Thursday, August 6, 2009 Bakersville Creek Walk Arts Festival This September 26th and 27th10:03 AM
BAKERSVILLE, NC - The annual Bakersville Creek Walk Arts Festival - a juried, fine arts show - is hosted each September by the town of Bakersville, North Carolina to promote the arts and craft of the mountains.
This year’s show offers over 40 exhibitors of glass, jewelry, pottery, paintings, furniture, fiber, woodcraft and sculpture. The Bakersville Creek Walk Arts Festival has become known for showcasing some of the finest arts and crafts to be found in the Southeast. The Festival takes place along the banks of Cane Creek, which winds through the center of this beautiful and historic small town. Bakersville is just over an hour away from either Asheville, Boone or Johnson City, Tennessee. Penland School of Crafts, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Spruce Pine and Burnsville are all within 20 minutes of Bakersville and provide plenty of activities to see or do during the weekend. This year’s festival takes place on Saturday, September 26, from 10 AM - 5 PM and on Sunday, September 27, Noon - 5 PM. Come experience our local music, food, atmosphere and more. The festival is open to the public, free of charge and free parking is available nearby. The Creek Walk Arts Festival started in 2005 to celebrate and utilize Bakersville's new, half-mile, paved footpath. With generous support from organizations such as the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Bakersville and the Bakersville Improvement Group, the Creek Walk Arts Festival has become a local favorite with artists and visitors alike; many returning year after year. Proceeds from past festivals have addressed local needs such as stocking food banks, providing heating subsidies for the elderly and town beautification projects. In addition, the Arts Festival bestows over $3000 in cash prizes. Artists compete for the following awards: Best of Show, First Place, Second Place, Third Place, Three Honorable Mentions, Best Booth, People's Choice, Middleton Emerging Artist Award and Crimson Laurel Gallery's Award for Excellence in Ceramics. Start with the downtown businesses, add the support from town and county, mix in the large number of volunteers and top it off with loyal artisans and one can see that the Bakersville Creek Walk Arts Festival is truly a community event to be experienced and appreciated. If you haven't been to Bakersville lately, you have missed the best kept secret in western North Carolina. Come discover our mountain paradise. For more information about the Bakersville Creek Walk Arts Festival, please contact Anita Connelly at (828) 688-1717. Labels: art, asheville, events, festivals Wednesday, August 5, 2009 Gardening Symposium at Arboretum Celebrates Great Plants with National Experts8:47 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The North Carolina Arboretum's "Speaking of Gardening" symposium brings six highly regarded designers, research specialists and nurserymen to the region on Aug. 28 and Aug. 29 to celebrate and explore great plants, new ideas and inspiration. Symposium topics include private and public garden design, new plants from NCSU plant research program, designing with grasses, new perennials from Jelitto and the Human Flower Project. Expert talks by nationally known innovators are a highlight of the "Speaking of Gardening" symposium. Presentations for the 2009 series include: Allen Bush: In the Company of Plantsmen Explore the values, mission and plants of Jelitto Seeds. Jelitto has specialized in production, cultivation and seed technology since 1957 and supplies seeds for over 3,000 perennials, ornamental grasses, aromatic herbs and more. In addition to headquarters in Germany, Jelitto has offices in the USA, UK and Japan. John Hoffman: Ornamental Grasses in Today's Garden Using stunning photography and 25 years of experience, John Hoffman brings you the latest scoop on ornamental and native grasses. Gardeners, designers and landscapers will discover outstanding grasses and grasslike plants to use as architectural specimens, decorative-urn focal points, and in sweeps and masses. John will highlight tough-as-nails superstars, wonderful grasses that pack brute strength and environmental muscle into their good looks. In addition, you will get a peak at new varieties that excite the senses and spur the imagination. Tom Ranney: Making Plants from Scratch Learn how over the centuries, plant breeding has transformed and vitalized agriculture, civilization, and our gardens. Natural biodiversity in the plant kingdom provides the raw ingredients for fostering new plants with enhanced pest resistance, adaptability, and dazzling garden appeal. A firm scientific foundation coupled with the vagaries and randomness of genetic recombination can result in outcomes that defy imagination. The basic how-to of plant breeding and exciting new hybrids will be presented. Joe Eck and Wayne Winterrowd: Our Life in Gardens Enjoy a highly personal account of over 30 years of experience in the making of North Hill, which the garden historian Mac Griswold has called "one of the best private gardens in North America." This lecture is not only a biography of a mature garden and autobiography of a relationship, but also includes valuable information on garden design and on the cultivation of rare and unusual plants. Joe Eck and Wayne Winterrowd: North Hill through Four Seasons Tour of one of America's most celebrated private gardens as it changes through the seasons from spring to winter. Though North Hill is located in southern Vermont, Eck and Winterrowd, both professional landscape designers, have worked in climates as varied as San Diego, Montreal, Chicago and Kentucky. This lecture will be both an intimate tour of their garden and also a primer on essential questions of garden design. Allen Bush: Stories from the Human flower Project and Beyond Take a look inside The Human Flower Project, an international newsgroup, photo album and discussion of humankind's relationship with the floral world. Various correspondents travel the globe and write about topics such as Art & Media, Cooking, Ecology, Gardening & Landscape, Medicine, Politics, Science and Travel. Learning the Lesson of Happiness: the A(ubergines), B(eets), C(arrots) (New Orleans), A Paris Garden with Iron Bones (Paris) and Hunter-Gatherer-Sculptor (Philadelphia) are a few titles and small sampling from Allen's many submissions. Fred Hooks: Each Garden Is Different: A 30-Year Conclusion Founded on Fred's extensive experience, the lecture addresses Post Properties and their creative application of landscape techniques to continuous shrinking spaces and the use of unusual plants in the right places, turning landscape into garden. Fred will also look at the use of maples in the garden and a brief review of some exciting new introductions. Continuing education credits are available. The "Speaking of Gardening" symposium is sponsored by patrons Joe Myers and Stephen B. Fisher and sponsors B.B. Barns, Inc, Snow Creek Landscaping, LLC, Doubletree Hotel Biltmore/Asheville, and Noland Interiors, Inc. Registration includes seven lectures, a book signing, plant giveaway, lunches and snacks and is $98 for Arboretum Society members and $114 for the general public. The symposium is limited to 100 participants. Register by calling 828-665-2492, Ext. 317 or visit www.ncarboretum.org. Labels: asheville, events, nc arboretum, outdoors Tuesday, August 4, 2009 Meet Farmers at Ingles Event12:31 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Weaverville Ingles Market will host a special event with farmer appearances, food samples, and kids activities on Saturday, August 8. The event, at 140 Weaver Blvd., will run from 10:00am to 1:00pm. Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project is organizing the farmer appearances, "to help people connect with the farmers who are growing their food right here in the community," says Program Director, Peter Marks.
Meet Billy Haynes of Black Bird Farms and Allan Henderson of Henderson’s Best Produce at the Weaverville Ingles event. Some of the other local, family farms that supply food to Ingles include: - Apple Wedge Packers, Henderson County, NC – apples - Hollar and Greene, Watauga County, NC - cabbage - Hilda Rico Tipton Farms, Rutherford County, NC – tomatoes,/p> - Robbins Family Farm, Duffield, VA - potted herbs - Seasonal Produce, Haywood County, NC – Romaine lettuce - Shelton Farms, Jackson County, NC – Bibb lettuce - Sunny Creek Farm, Polk County, NC– sprouts - Windy Ridge Farm, Henderson County, NC - apples,/p> To identify local food in your grocery store, look for the Appalachian Grown logo. The Appalachian Grown brand, created by ASAP, identifies food from family farm in the Southern Appalachians. As a part of their work to keep farmers farming and reconnect people with their food, ASAP serves farmers and grocers. The nonprofit organization matches buyers with local, family farmers who can supply the products they need. ASAP also helps businesses market local foods and make them more visible to customers with signs and ads. Ingles distributes ASAP’s Local Food Guides at stores. "We’re pleased to collaborate with Ingles," Marks says, "As a locally owned grocer with dozens of stores in the region, we see Ingles in a unique position to promote local food, and to make it available to a diversity of people." Labels: asheville, events, food
Asheville Tourists Return Home Tonight12:11 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - With just 15 home games remaining in the regular season, the Asheville Tourists are in the hunt for the division title in the second half; don't miss your chance to see them live at McCormick Field! The Tourists come home for a four-game homestand beginning Tuesday, August 4th - live on television!
Asheville will host the Bowling Green Hot Rods for four games, starting Tuesday, August 4th with the final TV game of the season, broadcast live on WMYA MY 40. Tuesday is Breast Cancer Awareness Night, compliments of Asheville Radiology - the Tourists will be wearing one-of-a-kind pink jerseys for the game, which will be auctioned off following the contest. Tuesday is also another KRAFT Singles Night, where you can exchange a KRAFT Singles wrapper for a buy one get one free General Admission ticker voucher. Finally, as with all Tuesday home games, it is Papa John's Kids Eat Free night, where all kids receive a coupon for a free slice of Papa John's pizza and soda. Wednesday is Seniors Appreciation Night at McCormick Field, all seniors receive complimentary tickets to that night's game. Thursday is a Thirsty Thursday featuring $1 drinks, compliments of Wild Wing Café, Rock 104.9 and Star 104.3. The homestand will conclude on Friday, August 7th as the Tourists and Hot Rods get underway at 7:05 pm. Tickets are still available for all 15 remaining home games this season. To purchase tickets or other information, contact the McCormick Field Box Office at (828) 258-0428. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, sports
Musician Justin David to Perform at Diana Wortham Theatre11:44 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Kick off the new Mainstage season at the Diana Worthum Theatre by catching a rising star. Justin David, a songwriter, guitarist, mandolinist, fiddler and singer, is among the fastest-rising performers on the pop/country circuit, a top-five finalist of TV’s “Nashville Star," and a featured artist for several years on tour with the legendary Roy Clark. His spotlighted performances and onstage charisma bring lines of folks to meet him after the show. David continues to tour with Clark when he’s not on the road with his own band as he will be for this tour date in Asheville.
This concert takes place on September 11th at 8pm and tickets go on sale August 18th. For more information call, 828-257-4530 or visit, www.dwtheatre.com Labels: asheville, events, music
Grandfather Mountain to Host 'Kidfest'11:09 AM
LINVILLE, NC - On Saturday, September 12, Grandfather Mountain will celebrate Kidfest, a day designed to get kids excited about the nature and culture of the North Carolina Mountains through fun and entertaining activities.
Kidfest Schedule: 9am - Guided hike at the Woods Walk trail with Naturalist Jesse Pope. 10-11 - Story time and Craft lead by Watauga County Library 11 - Birds of the Blue Ridge live demonstration in the Nature Museum Auditorium. 11-2pm - Face painting at the Fudge Shop 12:30-2:30- Storyteller Glen Bollick in the Nature Museum auditorium 1:30 - "The Thicket Game" at the Woods Walk trail. A hide-and-go-seek style game that teaches the value of blending in with your surroundings. 2-3 - Kids Nature Crafts in the Nature Museum Lobby 3-4 - Staff on hand in Habitat area to answer questions 3:30 - Creepy Critters at the butterfly garden. We'll introduce you to our educational animals and learn that even creepy critters have a place in the environment. For more information call, 800-468-7325 Labels: children, events, grandfather mountain Monday, August 3, 2009 Appalachian State University and Google Host 'Green Economy' Forum10:41 AMBOONE, NC - A free forum, 'Re-Powering Our Region: Building Profit by Being Green,' will be held at the Broyhill Civic Center in Lenoir Friday, Aug. 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is sponsored by Appalachian State University's Center for Entrepreneurship, Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, Caldwell County Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Commission of Caldwell County and Google. Space is limited. To register, visit www.business.appstate.edu/realworld or call 828-262-7747. The forum will feature keynote speaker Harry Wingo, policy counsel in Google's Washington, D.C., office where he focuses on cybersecurity, energy and other issues. Wingo will discuss Google’s clean energy vision with his talk "Smart Grids: Building the Energy Internet." The information will address how consumers and businesses can benefit from this emerging technology, which will help transform the nation's energy usage. The day-long event also will feature expert panelists who will discuss responsible energy use, local and global perspectives on the green economy, the area's existing green business and various resources for education and economic development. The event is designed to connect business leaders, entrepreneurs, educators and policymakers to create a more sustainable economic future for the region. Participants will increase their awareness of substantial savings available through new technologies and education in today's energy market. "We are pleased to partner with Appalachian and our community in helping lead the way in educating both businesses and consumers in the green industry," said CCC&TI President Ken Boham. "Through this forum, we hope to increase awareness among local leaders and have further conversations on why it is important for the community to embrace this initiative and how we can work together to help bring more jobs and opportunities to the area." Labels: ASU, Boone, events, green
WNC Nature Center Hosts 'Overnight Delight'9:24 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Here is your opportunity to stay at the WNC Nature Center overnight in your tent or in the safety of our Main Exhibit Building with the snakes, turtles, lizards and salamanders. Join the WNC Nature Center's education department for an evening of fun, food, and folly and camp all night under the stars on August 07, 2009 to August 08, 2009. Arrive at 6:00pm to set up your tent by the deer lot and get settled in. Programs include:
In the morning, participants will be treated to a continental breakfast at 7:30 am followed by packing up our sleeping gear, tents, and belongings. Please call (828) 298-5600, ext 305 to make your required reservations immediately as this event will fill quickly. Cost is $35.00 per child and $25.00 per adult. Labels: asheville, children, events, nature
Save the Date - Tomato Tasting at the WNC Farmer's Market9:18 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Enjoy the pleasure of summer with firm, red, juicy garden fresh tomatoes at the WNC Farmer's Market on Friday, August 14th, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Whether you prefer them sliced thick on your favorite sandwich, chopped into canned soups for that homemade goodness or prefer to eat them fresh like you would an apple, a flavorful tomato is a real treat. From Mr. Stripey to Romas, the vendors at the WNC Farmers' Market have tomatoes to excite your taste buds! Come try out some of the most popular varieties of the season and tell us your favorites. Labels: asheville, events, food
Rain Washes Out Asheville's Streak8:29 AM
ROME, GA - The Asheville Tourists had their five-game winning streak snapped with a 7-3 loss in a rain-shortened six inning game on Saturday. The Rome Braves put together a four-run sixth to break a 3-3 tie just before the rain came down. Luis Sumoza doubled in three runs to give the Braves the lead and win. Dan Houston tossed 5 2/3 innings for Asheville (48-56, 22-13) in the loss. Houston (5-8) shutout Rome for the first four innings before allowing three runs (one earned) in the fifth. Houston took a 3-3 tie into the sixth inning until the Braves broke through. With two outs Chaise fuller singled to begin Rome's assault. Houston then lost his command and walked the next three batters before being lifted for Michael Marbry. Luis Sumoza then cracked his fourth hit of the game, a double to clear the bases pushing Rome up 7-3 after six innings. Asheville scored in the first inning with a Scott Robinson leadoff double. Robinson stole third base and came in on a Kiel Roling double. Asheville took a 2-0 lead in the third inning with a one out single form Delta Cleary followed by two Rome errors. The Braves pushed across three runs to take the lead in the fifth on consecutive RBI hits from Joel Campusano and Sumoza. The Tourists tied the game 3-3 in the top of the sixth on a Mike Zuanich double and a Ryan Peisel sacrifice fly. Rome took over with the big bottom half of the sixth inning as the rain came to end the contest and the Tourists five game winning streak. Asheville will finish their four game series in Rome on Sunday at 2:00 with Alan DeRatt (1-2, 6.06) to make his second start of the season for Asheville. All the action can be heard on 100.7 WRES or online at www.theashevilletourists.com Labels: asheville, baseball, events, sports, tourists Friday, July 31, 2009 Master Gardener Plant Clinic Scheduled at WNC Farmers Market2:05 PM ASHEVILLE, NC - Need help with gardening? Come to the WNC Farmers' Market for assistance.The NCSU Master Gardeners Program will be held on Saturday, August 8 & 22: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and will offer plant clinics to assist the public in diagnosing and solving gardening questions. All clinics are free, and the public is encouraged to bring samples from problem plants or insects that need to be diagnosed and/or identified. The Master Gardener Program provides research-based information on home horticulture. Trained Volunteers are prepared to help with advice on growing plants, insect identification and managing disease problems.
Nature’s Art on Display at The North Carolina Arboretum11:30 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Nature’s art comes to life at the NC Arboretum during a special exhibit featuring works by members of the Carolinas’ Nature Photographers Association, opening August 14 at the Education Center’s second-floor gallery.
The exhibit, which runs through November 15, promotes an appreciation of our natural gifts and treasures. The Carolinas’ Nature Photographers Association (CNPA) has an ongoing effort to preserve the environment of the Carolinas through photography. The association sponsors and is involved in many projects that promote protection and understanding of the environment. Members learn and share their skills through networking, workshops, field outings and meetings. For more information about CNPA, visit websites, www.cnpa.org and www.cnpa-asheville.org Labels: asheville, events, nature, nc arboretum, photography
New Dance Event Happening at Grove Park Inn11:15 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - As part of the 2010 Musical Adventure Weekend series, The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa is pleased to announce the addition of a new concert and dance event to its already formidable line-up. “Swing Dance Sunday” will make its debut on January 24, 2010, and will feature music from The Russ Wilson Orchestra and the DJ talent of Michael Gamble.
Dancers and music lovers have the option of buying general admission tickets for $15 each or of taking advantage of great rates and purchasing a package. One-night packages are available starting at $179 for double occupancy and include a two-hour dance workshop, reserved preferred seating at the concert, resort accommodations and breakfast overlooking the mountains in The Blue Ridge Dining Room. "This new event is the perfect opportunity for people to enjoy the Grove Park Inn experience at its finest and at a great rate," states Susan Phillips, Director of Marketing & Communications. "Whether you want to kick up your heels on the dance floor or simply listen to the music and enjoy our great food and legendary service, this event opens the door to a multitude of opportunities." In addition to Swing Dance Sunday tickets, a limited number of general admission tickets to the Resort’s other Musical Adventure Weekends also go on sale on Saturday, August 1, 2009. Concerts include The Glenn Miller Orchestra, David Sanborn, Gaelic Storm and more. For concert and package information, please contact The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa at 800-438-5800 or visit www.groveparkinn.com/Happenings. Labels: asheville, events, Grove Park Inn
Save the Date - Asheville Tourists Chili Cookoff and Fall Festival11:05 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - The baseball equipment may be back in storage by October, but the change of seasons will not keep the Asheville Tourists from welcoming a crowd. On Saturday, October 3, the team will host the Asheville Tourists Fall Festival and Chili Cook-off at McCormick Field, featuring more than 30 different styles of chili, live music from three bands, and affordable fun for every member of the family.Tickets for the Tourists Fall Festival and Chili Cook-off will go on sale, Monday, August 3, at 10 a.m. at the McCormick Field box office as well as ticketmaster.com. Cost for the event is $10 for adults, $5 for children age 5-12, and free for youngsters age four and under. Entry fees for the chili cook-off are $35 for individuals and $50 for restaurants. There will be three cash prizes of $300 each for the individual winner, the restaurant winner and the fans' choice award. Vendor booths are also available for $50. Music will be provided throughout the event, beginning with the Jamie Pelfrey Band playing country hits at noon. The Sharkadelics will take the stage at 1:45 p.m. with their popular set of classic rock hits before Mighty McFly starts playing top 40 hits from the 1980s and 1990s at 3:30 p.m. Numerous other events will also be held, including a pumpkin drawing contest and an ice cream eating contest. "Fall is the most popular time of the year in Asheville and we're adding to the beautiful weather and colorful leaves with an incredible fun-filled day at the ballpark," said Mike Bauer, executive director of the Tourists and Palace Baseball. "Chili is one of the world's great comfort foods, and we'll have contestants offering nearly every type for even the most devoted chili connessiouers." The Tourists return to McCormick Field on Tuesday, August 4, for a four-game series against the Bowling Green Hot Rods. For more information, call the Tourists front office at (828) 258-0428. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, tourists Thursday, July 30, 2009 Asheville Antiques Fair Comes to Civic Center This Weekend10:36 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The sixty-third Asheville Antiques Fair, one of the oldest Antiques Fairs in the Southeast, has been held every year with the exception of 1947, when it was cancelled due to a polio epidemic in Asheville. This year the fair will be held from July 31 - August 2, 2009 at the Civic Center in Asheville, North Carolina. The event proceeds benefit area historic and cultural landmarks. Monies go toward restoration, conservation and preservation of projects supporting the architectural gems of Asheville. The proceeds from the very first Antiques Fair in 1945 to present day, represents over $170,000 donated to numerous community charities as well as more than $325,000 awarded to local restoration, preservation projects. The Asheville Antiques Fair is a non-profit organization and is hosted under the auspices of The Vetust Study Club of Asheville, North Carolina, Inc. The name Vetust comes from the Latin root word meaning “of the ancient”. The object of the club is the study of antiques and subjects on historical interest and to aid the community's charitable, civic and cultural advancements. The Vetust Study Club is a volunteer organization of 24 women dedicating their time toward the support of the Asheville Antiques Fair. The Vetust Study Club meets monthly to present individual research papers dealing with antiques. The Fair will feature nearly 55 Exhibitors from many States, offering a wide range of period furnishings and decorative arts, vintage jewelry, porcelains, ceramics, silver, architectural elements, oriental rugs, rare books, heirloom linens and lace and garden accouterments. All items will be available for purchase. The Fair itself will be accompanied by a variety of special events designed to appeal to both new and seasoned collectors of antiquities including; Expert Lectures, an Heirloom Road Show offering verbal evaluations by three certified appraisers and a gourmet Summer Garden Café catered by the Every Day Gourmet. Labels: antiques, art, asheville, events
Biltmore Unveils Second Annual Flower Carpet9:40 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Biltmore will celebrate its renowned landscape history with its second annual Flower Carpet August 14 through 30. On the South Terrace of Biltmore House, more than 100,000 live plants will be installed to create a design inspired from architectural elements found in America's largest home. The 14,400 square foot carpet display represents months of planning and engineering, and offers guests a unique late summer garden experience. This year's design was created by a Biltmore employee and was interpreted from stone carvings and intricate details from around Biltmore House. Most notably, the design reflects a fleur-de-lis motif found on a stone pillar outside the house. These pillars were one of the architectural designs inspired by the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley of France. The plants used for the carpet will be Scaevola Top Pot Blue, Salvia farinacea Evolution, Begonia Prelude Rose, Marigold Janie Bright Yellow, Zinnia Profusion Fire, Iresine Purple Lady and Dusty Miller New Look. "Flower carpets are popular in India. They're part of a yearly spring celebration on the island of Madeira and they have been perfected in Belgium. We are very excited to be bringing this natural art to our region for the second year in a row," said Parker Andes, director of horticulture for Biltmore. A daytime visit to Biltmore's Flower Carpet is included with the cost of regular admission. Seating will be available on the South Terrace and Library Terrace of Biltmore House, where the view is spectacular. The gardens are open to day guests until dusk. On select evenings, the estate will open for Flower Carpet Evenings - August 14, 16, 21, 22, 28 and 29. On these special nights, the carpet will be surrounded by the glow of soft lighting, beautiful sunset views and live jazz. Evening tickets are $65, or guests may upgrade from their daytime ticket for an additional charge. These tickets also include a self-guided candlelight tour of Biltmore House from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Guests with evening tickets may enter the estate after 4:30 p.m. Picnic options are available by reservation online or by phone when purchasing tickets. A wine bar featuring wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase will be available on site as well as a dining concierge that will be able to assist with dinner reservations at an estate restaurant. Restaurants will also be taking dinner reservations in advance. For additional information on the Flower Carpet event, please call 877-BILTMORE. Labels: asheville, Biltmore Estate, events, restaurants
Riverlink Hosts "Rockin' RiverFest" on Saturday9:18 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - RiverLink hosts its annual Rockin' RiverFest Saturday, including a Raft Race, Kids' Parade, Music Showcase & Competition, local food and beer, vendors, arts performances and recreational activities. The festivities begin at 11 a.m. at the French Broad River Park with a Kids Parade for ages 12 and younger who can decorate their bikes, rollerblades or skateboards. Surprise judges will award prizes to kids for their creativity and green means of transportation. After the parade, there will be fun activities including face painting and hula hooping. The Music Showcase & Competition sponsored by 98.1 the River and the Musician's Workshop starts at noon with local area bands competing for Best Band and Wild Wing's Choice. For more information including raft race registration, parking information and free shuttles and schedule of events, please visit www.riverlink.org. Labels: asheville, children, events, green, outdoors
NC Governor Announces Sales Tax Holiday8:59 AMRALEIGH, NC - Gov. Bev Perdue has announced that North Carolinians can save money by purchasing items such as clothing, school supplies and computers during the state's sales tax holiday that begins on Friday, Aug. 7 and runs through Sunday, Aug. 9. "Especially during these tough economic times, it's important that we provide families with a break when it comes to buying school supplies," said Perdue. "The sales tax holiday will make it easier for families to buy the supplies they need, and I encourage all North Carolinians to take advantage of it." During the sales tax holiday weekend, consumers will not pay sales tax on the following items: clothing, footwear and school supplies of $100 or less per item; school instructional materials of $300 or less per item; sports and recreational equipment of $50 or less per item; computers of $3,500 or less per item; and computer supplies of $250 or less per item. For more details on the 2009 sales tax holiday - including a list of the items that are exempt from sales taxes during the holiday - visit the N.C. Department of Revenue's web site: http://www.dor.state.nc.us/taxes/sales/salestax_holiday.html. The holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, and lasts until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 9. The sales tax holiday was first enacted in 2001. Labels: education, events, government
Sign Up Now for the Fall Citizens Police Academy8:45 AMASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Police Department is now inviting residents to apply for the fall semester of its Citizens Police Academy. The academy, offered for free twice a year, gives participants insight into the philosophy, policies, and guiding principles of law enforcement and the ethical conduct governing the APD's services in the community. The class is designed to give residents an appreciation for the problems and challenges facing law enforcement, as well as an up-close opportunity to offer insights, ideas and solutions. No law enforcement background is required. The academy lasts for 11 consecutive weeks, with three-hour classes on Thursdays. The course consists of basic classroom instruction, presentations, and demonstrations on topics such as criminal investigations, constitutional and criminal law, use of force, departmental structure and defensive tactics. Participants will also be able to ride with police officers on patrol. The final day of the class ends with a graduation ceremony and the awarding of framed certificates. Classes begin Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. at the police department. Those wishing to participate must apply and be accepted. For more information on the academy, contact Officer Allen Dunlap at 828-259-5834 or adunlap@ashevillenc.gov. Labels: asheville, events, law enforcement Wednesday, July 29, 2009 'Doors of Asheville' Scheduled for November 19th10:11 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - HomeTrust Bank has stepped forward again this year as the platinum sponsor to present the Doors of Asheville, an annual fundraising art auction whose proceeds benefit the services of Mountain Housing Opportunities (MHO)
The 2009 event will take place November 19 at The Orange Peel and will feature a live and silent auction of over 30 works of art with doors and housing as the central theme. Live entertainment will be provided by Ol’Hoopty. Dana Stonestreet, President and COO, HomeTrust Bank commented, "HomeTrust Bank and Mountain Housing Opportunities share a common goal; to help families realize their dreams of owning a home. We are pleased to sponsor the Doors of Asheville event again this year and applaud Mountain Housing Opportunities in all that they do to help so many deserving family members in our community." The 2009 Doors of Asheville marks the fifth year that HomeTrust Bank has provided crucial sponsorship of the event. The funds raised will help benefit the 500 families and individuals served each year by MHO’s programs of emergency home repair, rural home rehabilitation, and affordable rental and homeownership development. "'We’ll make it home together,' is what we tell the community," said MHO Executive Director Scott Dedman. "No where is this concept more evident than in the coalition of businesses, artists, volunteers and friends who come together year after year to support the Doors of Asheville and demonstrate their commitment to affordable housing in our community." Artists from around the region are supporting MHO by creating themed work for the event. Labels: art, asheville, events, non-profit
Asheville City Sponsors Lawful Employment Seminar9:53 AM ASHEVILLE, NC - The City of Asheville, AB Tech, and the Department of Homeland Security are co-sponsoring an “Understanding Lawful Employment” seminar Aug. 4, 9:30 a.m.-noon in Room 200 of the Haynes Building on the AB-Tech Enka Campus.The seminar is designed to give local employers an opportunity to learn how to file and use new federal employment forms with expected topics to include I-9 Preparation, E-Verify, and the IMAGE (ICE Mutual Agreement between Government and Employers) program. The seminar will begin with a presentation from the Department of Homeland Security followed by a question and answer session led by a panel of service providers. The panel will include representatives from the Small Business and Technology Development Center, State Human Resources Professional Local Chapter, Western Carolina Industries, and Department of Homeland Security. There is no cost to attend, however, pre-registration is required. To register, contact Janet Dack at (828) 232-4505 or jdack@ashevillenc.gov Labels: asheville, events, government
Historical Marker to Honor Chimney Rock9:02 AM
RALEIGH, NC –Described by a British traveler as “an isolated rock, looming against the sky which is of circular form, and resembles the principal turret of a stupendous castle,” the 315-foot Chimney Rock monolith remains awe inspiring today. The natural marvel is a major tourist destination, and will be recognized by the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources with a N.C. Highway Historical Marker on Aug. 3. The 11 a.m. ceremony will be at the Esmeralda Inn. The marker will be placed at US 64/74A in Chimney Rock.
Chimney Rock towers over the 14-mile long gorge in Rutherford County, in an area settled in the 1780s. Henderson County native Jerome Freeman devised a plan to build a stairway up to its summit and build a park around it in 1880, and made the necessary purchases. The stairs and a trail to the breathtaking Hickory Nut Falls, known as the “Appian Way” also were completed that year. Tourists began paying to climb to the top, including the physician Lucius Morse, who had moved to Hendersonville to relieve the symptoms of tuberculosis. The weakened Morse paid a man 25 cents to complete his ascent to the rock’s summit on a donkey. In 1902, the captivated Morse and his brothers purchased Chimney Rock in a 64-acre tract for $5,000. The automobile age made Chimney Rock a successful tourist destination. Completion of a bridge across the Rocky Broad River and the Chimney Rock Motor Road increased accessibility in 1916. Morse increased tourist appeal when he had the river dammed to create Lake Lure, and later added an elevator, driveway and parking lot. Environmental attractions and trails were added, including a Nature Center and guided walks, and educational opportunities. In 2007, the State of North Carolina purchased Chimney Rock from the Morse family. This 1,000 acres is the focal point of the still developing Chimney Rock State Park. For information on the dedication, contact Mary Jaeger-Gale at (828) 625-9611, x 813. For information on the Highway Marker program, contact Mike Hill at (919) 807-7290. Labels: chimney rock, events, outdoors
Asheville Art Museum to Showcase Permanent Collection8:39 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Art Museum will highlight 60 works drawn from its permanent collection on Saturday, September 12, 2009 - Sunday, February 14, 2010. The exhibition will provide an overview of the collection which focuses on American art of the 20th and 21st centuries with an interest in art of the Southeast and Western North Carolina.
Looking Forward: New Works and New Directions for the Permanent Collection will bring to light the significant growth that has occurred in recent years. It will also showcase some of the areas in which the Museum has collected in depth, including work by Black Mountain College artists, Cherokee artists and Western North Carolina crafts. This exhibition will feature works in a variety media such as painting, sculpture, ceramics and drawing. Included in the exhibition will be photography by Larry Clark and paintings by Thornton Dial, Kenneth Noland and John Urbain. In 2008, Museum staff, board and volunteers examined the Museum's collection focus and works in the collection to create a collection growth plan. The growth plan was developed to identify the strengths of the permanent collection and areas where the collection needs further advancement. Looking Forward: New Works and New Directions for the Permanent Collection will note the significance of the Asheville Art Museum's permanent collection as it exists today and look forward its continued growth in the coming years. For more information please visit, www.ashevilleart.org Labels: art, asheville, events, museums
Annual Village Art & Craft Fair Comes to Biltmore Village This Weekend8:13 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - On August 1st and 2nd New Morning Gallery and Bellagio sponsors the Village Art and Craft Fair on the grounds of the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village. In its 37th year, the VACF continues a long tradition of bringing high-quality crafts to Biltmore Village.
The fair will host 125 artists from 17 states, representing the full spectrum of craft media - jewelry, ceramic, wood, fiber, metals, two-dimensional art and more. The craft fair is a great opportunity to encounter new artists (15 are first-time exhibitors) and to talk with crafters one-on-one. Most exhibitors are not represented at New Morning Gallery, so visitors are sure to find new treasures along with a few old favorites. Over the years, the fair has gained a reputation as one of the finest craft fairs in the area has spread (along with the ubiquitous cat posters and T-shirts , colors are White, Black, Stone Blue, Serene Green, and Cinnamon; sizes sm-2xl). Thousands of shoppers from all over the southeast arrive to stroll through the fair, discovering unique gifts for friends, family and themselves! For more information visit, www.newmorninggallerync.com.Labels: art, asheville, events Tuesday, July 28, 2009 Wine Dinner Debuts New Grove Park Inn Wines1:58 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa announces a wine dinner on Friday, August 28, 2009 which will feature new vintage Grove Park Inn wines, as well as the debut of one new wine, Grove Park Inn Merlot, Sonoma County 2006. A total of five wines will be paired with a six course menu, prepared with fresh local ingredients and select specialty products.
The Inn welcomes noted Sonoma County California vintner Kerry Damskey, who will co-host the dinner. Damskey has 27 years in the wine-making industry and has achieved international recognition for creating exceptional wines. The new Grove Park Inn wine is the result of Damskey’s collaborative effort with Inn executives, Jeff Piccirillo and Kevin Schwartz. “Balance is the key to creating a beautiful wine to represent the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa,” stated Kevin Schwartz, the Inn’s Assistant Director of Food & Beverage, Sommelier, and Certified Specialist of Wine. “The Grove Park Inn and the entire Sunset Terrace team are both pleased and proud to present this opportunity to share in the union of outstanding food and spectacular wine, which has resulted from our collaboration with Kerry Damskey,” said Jeff Piccirillo, Executive Director of Food & Beverage at The Grove Park Inn. In addition to The Grove Park Inn’s sparkling wine, Jean-Luc Crémant de Bourgogne, the Inn will introduce its three latest Sonoma vintages which include Grove Park Inn Sauvignon Blanc, 2008; Grove Park Inn Chardonnay, 2008; and, Grove Park Inn Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006. New to the Grove Park Inn label will be Grove Park Inn Merlot, 2006. The Merlot is described as an alluring and approachable wine with notes of cherry, clove, and cinnamon, followed by a velvety finish. For Wine Dinner reservations, please contact The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa at 800.438.5800 or 828.252.2711 or visit http://www.groveparkinn.com/Leisure/Dining. Labels: asheville, events, food, Grove Park Inn, wine
Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Leonard Cohen Books the Thomas Wolfe1:46 PM ASHEVILLE, NC - Leonard Cohen, the Canadian singer-songwriter whose dark, poetic songs made him a 1960s cult hero, will make a rare Asheville concert appearance November 1st, at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.The 74-year-old Cohen will be backed by a highly regarded, jazz-influenced band that includes bassist Roscoe Beck, keyboardist Neil Larsen, guitarist Bob Metzger, multi-instrumentalist Javier Mas, drummer Rafael Gayol, saxophonist Dino Soldo and vocalists Sharon Robinson and the Webb Sisters. Tickets for the show go on sale at 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 3rd and can be purchased by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. Cohen, a native of Montreal, started out as a poet and novelist before releasing his debut album, "Songs of Leonard Cohen," in 1968. His best-known songs include "Suzanne," "Hallelujah," "First We Take Manhattan" and "Everybody Knows." The cult hero's moody tunes have been covered by everyone from Judy Collins to the late Jeff Buckley. His latest album, "Leonard Cohen: Live in London," is a 26-track document of his current world tour. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008. Labels: asheville, events, music
Mountain Dance and Folk Festival Returns to Asheville, July 30 - Aug. 111:43 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The 82nd annual edition of the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival comes back to Diana Wortham Theatre this weekend in Asheville.
This three-day event showcases an amazing repertoire of mountain performers --- old-timers as well as the newest generation of bluegrass and mountain string bands, ballad singers, big circle mountain dancers and cloggers who share music and dance that echo centuries of Scottish, English, Irish, Cherokee and African heritage. The Festival begins Thursday, July 30 with Hometown Appreciation Night; in keeping with the grassroots flavor of the festival, local families and individuals are encouraged to attend to help kick off the first night of the Festival. Continuing throughout the weekend nightly from 7pm-10pm, this mountain tradition promises to offer a good time to all who attend. For more information, visit www.dwtheatre.com. Labels: asheville, events, music Monday, July 27, 2009 Andre Agassi to Play at Civic Center5:18 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - According to the website www.grandslamasheville.com, tennis sensation Andre Agassi will be playing an exhibition match at the Asheville Civic Center on August 28th. The original exhibition was to have taken place on August 6th and feature Marat Safin and Nivak Djokovic. Djokovic pulled out of the match and as a result the tournament was forced to move to later date with Agassi stepping in to play Safin. From 1987 until his retirement in 2006, Agassi amassed 60 singles career titles, and he won a gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. He spent a total of 101 weeks at #1, including 52 consecutive weeks from September 1999 through September 2000. He won eight Grand Slam titles, becoming - in 1999 - only the fifth male player to win all four majors: Wimbledon (1992), US Open (1994), Australian Open (1995) and the French Open (1999). (Roger Federer is the only male player to join that roster since Agassi). For more information visit, www.grandslamasheville.com. Labels: asheville, civic center, events, sports, tennis
NC Mountain State Fair Encourages Residents to Check Deadlines for Competitions11:02 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Typically summers are reserved for vacations and a little "R and R", but the folks from the Mountain State Fair want to remind you that the fair is less than two months away and time is running out to get your competitive entries ready and submitted for this year’s fair. Deadlines come as early as July 31 for the Mountain Music Competition, or as late as August 31 for categories such as arts, crafts, gardening, and baking; the key is knowing the entry deadline for your specific competition. There are many different categories of competition from livestock to photography. The easiest way to get more information is to go online and view the premium book through the fair's website, www.mountainfair.org. From there you can download or view a copy of the premium book and you can even submit your entries electronically. Premium books are also available in print at the WNC Ag Center in Fletcher and at the WNC Farmers Market on Brevard Road in Asheville. "We try real hard to have the premium books available before school ends in the spring so that we can get them in the hands of the kids before the summer, but there is a lull in between that time and the start of the fair in September," says Tamara Crain, Entries Coordinator for the NC Mountain State Fair. "The good thing is that competitions and competitive exhibits at the fair make for an excellent summer project for most children," Crain adds. "We realize how busy everyone’s summer can be; we just want to remind everyone not to let the dates sneak up on them." The NC Mountain State Fair will be held this year from September 11 through 20 at the WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher. In addition to all the arts, crafts, and competitive exhibits, the fair will have lots of games, rides, and food. Drew Expositions is returning to the NC Mountain State Fair this year to provide the carnival and they will be bringing back their popular attraction, the chairlift, which will stretch from one end of the fairway to the other. The fair will also host musical acts such as Jake Owen, Randy Houser, 33 Miles, and The Travelin McCoury's in McGough Arena. Discounted advance tickets are on sale now at the WNC Ag Center and at the WNC Farmers Market. Ingles supermarket stores will have discounted tickets available in stores beginning on August 1. They can also be bought online starting August 1. To learn more about the NC Mountain State Fair, visit www.mountainfair.org or call 828-687-1414. Labels: art, asheville, events, food, music
Asheville Local Debuts Show at NC Stage Company10:16 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Asheville resident Murphy Funkhouser shows off the junk in her trunk(s) in the autobiographical one-woman show Crazy Bag as part of North Carolina Stage Company's 2009-2010 Catalyst Series running August 6 - 15, 2009, Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30pm. Tickets are $12 for Thursdays, $15 for Fridays and Saturdays. The show was born when single-mom Funkhouser, "who knew a little something about (the show's theme) baggage and needed to do some unpacking", lived in Colorado. In its premiere at the 2007 Colorado Theatre Festival, Crazy Bag won Best Director (Denver Post Ovation winner Christopher Willard), and All State Actress (Denver Post Ovation nominee Funkhouser) honors. From there, Crazy Bag went on to play full houses in Breckenridge, Aspen, Denver, Albuquerque and Oklahoma City and was accepted into the 2008 San Francisco Fringe Festival. Last summer the show was listed as one the Denver Post's 10 Shows to See. Reviewed as "heart-wrenching" and "hilarious", the show was well received by critics and audiences alike. Says Funkhouser, "Everyone has some kind of baggage-something they are carrying through life." Now all "grown-up" (with a career and a daughter in kindergarten), Funkhouser was once a rebellious minister’s daughter who dropped out of Bible College, went wild, lived in her car and called 6 cities home in 10 years (this persona is represented in the show by a life-size cardboard cut-out in fishnets referred to as "The Heathen"). Funkhouser wakes one morning to find the baggage of her life has spilled out and she must sort and unpack to determine how to help her daughter avoid making the same mistakes. Funkhouser - happy she can now laugh about her past-is also a stand-up comedian who makes healthy use of humor while unloading her burdens. The show is a fast-paced revelation of a remarkable, frequently outrageous journey from barroom to motherhood, rebellion to redemption. Murphy Funkhouser "This is a funny show," she says. "But it also has the capacity to be life changing. The term 'baggage' is fraught with negative connotations. I want to reclaim the word. Baggage is the treasure of our travels... our souvenirs." Funkhouser used her life savings to produce and tour the show last summer because she believes so strongly in its message. "Claiming your baggage is liberating. I dream of a day people are lugging their baggage out into the yard and dancing in celebration of it. There should be no shame in the life well-traveled." Running tech for the show is Asheville resident Marlene Mechanic (a friend from Bible College) who left her job in Seattle last summer to tour with the show. Funkhouser warns that she will open not only her own "crazy bag" but the audience's as well. "There is something in this show that touches everyone no matter what road they took." For further information, visit www.crazybag.net. Labels: asheville, events, performing arts
Asheville Tourists Host Wild One9:15 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The Asheville Tourists and Shorebirds opened a four-game series at McCormick Field in dramatic fashion Sunday, with a back-and-forth extra inning contest culminating in a 6-3 Delmarva win. Asheville owned a 2-1 lead for most of the way, but a Shorebirds run in the top of the ninth tied it at 2-2, and a three-run rally in the top of the 12th inning gave them the victory.
Asheville got on the board quickly with a run in their first turn at bat. Jimmy Cesario ripped a one-out double into right-center field and Jordan Pacheco drove him in with a base hit to right to give the Tourists a 1-0 lead. Delmarva tied it up in the top of the second when catcher Victor Castillo drew a leadoff walk. After a fielder's choice, Kyle Hudson stood on first with one away. A groundout advanced Hudson to second base and, with two away, Ron Welty delivered his first of three hits, plating Hudson to tie the game at 1-1. The Tourists took the lead right back in the bottom of the frame when Cesario led off with a base hit. He then advanced from first-to-third on a couple of wild pitches and Mike Zuanich drove him in with a single to give Asheville the 2-1 advantage. Starting pitcher Dan Houston pitched well enough to earn the win, but got stuck with the no-decision. Houston went 6.0 innings, allowing just a run on six hits with five strikeouts. Isaiah Froneberger pitched two scoreless innings of relief and passed the game along to the closer, Adam Jorgenson, in the top of the ninth. Jorgenson gave up a leadoff single to Joe Mahoney, who promptly stole second base. After a popout and a strikeout, L.J. Hoes came up with the game on the line and lashed a base hit into left field to score Mahoney and tie the game at 2-2. Hoes was thrown out by Tyler Massey trying to stretch the single into a double, but the damage had been done. Asheville went down quietly in the bottom of the ninth, but the game changed beginning in the top of the tenth, with several exciting plays. Working against Tyler Trice, Victor Castillo led off the top of the tenth with a base hit and was then lifted for a pinch runner, Rodolfo Cardona. Kyle Hudson got the call to sacrifice bunt, and did so successfully. Trice then walked Greg Miclat intentionally to set up a potential double play. With runners on second and third, Ron Welty hit a high fly ball to deep right field that banged high off the 36-foot-high fence. Cardona hesitated on the play, but took off when the ball dropped, trying to score from second. David Christensen played it off the wall in right field and threw a strike to the plate. The throw was high, but Jordan Pacheco leapt, caught the ball, and dived toward the plate just in time to tag Cardona for the second out. That kept the game tied, and Trice struck out Elvin Polanco to end the threat. The Tourists had a chance to win it in their half of the tenth inning after Cesario drew a walk to lead things off. Jordan Pacheco was then hit by pitch and Mike Zuanich sacrificed the runners to second and third. With one out, Delmarva chose to walk Ryan Peisel intentionally to load the bases. David Christensen struck out for the second out of the inning and Tyler Massey grounded out to third base to end the threat and strand the bases loaded. Trice came back out to work the top of the eleventh and struck out the first batter he faced. He then allowed a single to Tyler Kolodny but erased him from the bases with a caught stealing. With two outs, Xavier Avery drew a walk and stole second base. Hoes then stepped in and lined a single up the middle. Delmarva waved Avery around third base as Scott Robinson came up throwing in center field. The throw from Robinson was slightly high, and Jordan Pacheco stood on the plate and leapt to receive it. As Pacheco came down, Avery bowled into the backstop, stepping on home plate. Pacheco came up still grasping the ball, but home plate umpire Joel Myers called Avery safe to make it 3-2 Shorebirds. Asheville manager Joe Mikulik stormed out of the dugout and vehemently disagreed with the call, earning himself an ejection. Welty stood on second base, having advanced on the throw home, and he was also waved around third when Luis Bernardo singled up the middle. Robinson once again threw a strike toward the plate, and this time the outcome was clear, nailing Welty at the plate for the final out of the frame. With their backs against the wall, Beau Seabury struck out to begin the bottom of the eleventh. Carlos Martinez then energized the crowd with a double to the gap in right-center field, his second double of the contest. Scott Robinson went down on strikes for the second out and, down to their final out, Jimmy Cesario chopped one to second base. Hoes fielded it but his throw was wide to first, allowing Martinez to score from second to tie the game at 3-3. After a Pacheco double, Zuanich popped out with runners on second and third to send it to the twelfth. Kurt Yacko came on for Trice and was knocked around by the Shorebirds lineup. Hudson led off with a base hit, then Yacko walked Welty intentionally following a strikeout. With runners on first and second, Elvin Polanco brought in the go-ahead run with a base hit, plating Hudson to give his team a 4-3 lead. After a flyout by Mahoney, Delmarva rattled off three consecutive singles, including RBI's for Kolodny and Avery to take a 6-3 lead. With two away and runners on first and second, Hoes singled to right field, and David Christensen threw home for yet another play at the plate, gunning Kolodny down at the plate for the final out. Asheville went down in order in the bottom of the twelfth, as T.R. Keating struck out the final two batters to end the game. The Tourists (17-12) and Shorebirds (15-14) will meet again Monday night for game two of the series, beginning at 7:05. Asheville will have RHP Robinson Fabian (2-6, 6.49) making the start, and he will face Delmarva RHP Oliver Drake (6-6, 3.70). Tickets for Monday's game and all Tourists home games are available by contacting the Tourists box office at (828) 258-0428. You can also listen to all 140 Asheville Tourists games live on 100.7 WRES FM or streaming online at www.theashevilletourists.com. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, sports, tourists Friday, July 24, 2009 Bele Chere Street Map Available Online10:58 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Although the actual Bele Chere footprint has been a little scaled back this year, the amount of fun and festivities remains the same. New to Bele Chere this year will be the participation of the Asheville Civic Center which will host the Food Lion Children’s Area and the Senior Oasis.
You can view and print this map by clicking here, BELE CHERE STREET MAPLabels: asheville, bele chere, events
'Ultimate Air Dogs' Soar into Bele Chere10:23 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - One of the premier dock jumping organizations in the country, ULTIMATE AIR DOGS puts on professional events that draw in thousands of spectators while maintaining a family friendly atmosphere. The shows will take place during the Bele Chere Festival next to the BB&T Building on the corner of College St. and Lexington Ave.
'Ultimate Air Dogs' started as a grassroots Michigan dock jumping club, striving to make every single participant feel important, from the smallest Novice jumper to the biggest Ultimate high flyer! That is why the Divisional Finals was created where the top 5 dogs from each division are invited to compete in a Grand Finale! Another way that we put the dog first, is by providing more open dock time than any other organization. Whenever possible participants will be able to practice. If dogs are having difficulty learning, a crew of volunteers will often provide free help between activities. Every Ultimate Air Dog is equally special. All mixes and breeds are welcome! Dog Registration for this year's event is closed but you can still come down and witness the action at the following times; Friday Splash Event - 1pm Event - 4pm Saturday Splash Event - 12pm Splash Event - 2pm Catch It! - 5pm Sunday Splash Event - 12pm FINALS - 3pm Labels: asheville, bele chere, downtown, events Thursday, July 23, 2009 Sustainable North Carolina 2009 Nominations Now Open3:32 PM
Raleigh, NC - Calling sustainable businesses of all sizes, social entrepreneurs, and champions of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic prosperity.
Nominations for the 2009 Sustainable North Carolina Awards are now being accepted online at www.sustainnc.org/2009awards. In the spirit of the 2009 theme of “Inspiring Innovation,” the nomination process will take a decidedly social media route to make it faster, easier, and more transparent. Nominee profiles will appear on an interactive website where the public can comment and ask questions. Now in its eighth year, the Sustainable NC Awards is one of the most widely recognized programs in North Carolina honoring organizations and people who integrate social responsibility and environmental stewardship with sound financial performance. In 2008, winners included The Biltmore Company in Asheville, Green Planet Catering in Raleigh, and the Proximity Hotel in Greensboro and the US Fleet Readiness Center East in Cherry Point. A judging panel comprising past award winners and sustainability specialists will select finalists and winners in each of five categories: Triple Bottom Line, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Catalyst, and Champion. Award finalists will be invited to present at breakout sessions on the day of the Awards ceremony. Event attendees will be able to cast a vote on-site for the winner of the brand new “Spark” award for the most inspirational finalist. All awardees will be honored at a ceremony and reception on November 11, 2009 in Raleigh at a venue to be announced. A limited number of sponsorship opportunities for the awards program and event are available. Please direct questions about the nomination process or sponsorships to Katy Ansardi at kansardi@sustainnc.org and (919) 839-2111 x9304. Labels: asheville, Biltmore Estate, events, raleigh, sustainable
Biltmore's Summer Concert Series Starts July 232:23 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Experience the exhilaration of a live concert at Biltmore. Enjoy star performances on the South Terrace, while savoring breathtaking sunset views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Tickets on sale now.
Savings Tip: Spend a day at Biltmore and enjoy a live concert on the estate for one low price. Summer Evening Concerts Lineup * MercyMe - July 23rd * ABBA The Music—A Tribute - July 24th * BRUCE HORNSBY & THE NOISEMAKERS - July 25th * Tom Jones - July 39th * RICK SPRINGFIELD with special guests LOVERBOY - July 31st * The Oak Ridge Boys and Doc Watson & David Holt - August 1st Concert tickets permit estate entry at 5:30 p.m. Tickets being held must be picked up at the Welcome Center by 7:30 p.m. For more information visit, www.biltmore.comLabels: asheville, Biltmore Estate, events, music
Bele Chere Offers Park-and-Ride Shuttles10:32 AM.jpg)
ASHEVILLE, NC - The City of Asheville will provide continuous express shuttle service and free parking for Bele Chere, July 24 – 26.
To use these services, attendees should park at one of two designated locations and look for the Bele Chere booth selling shuttle tickets. The shuttle will transport people downtown, relieving the hassles associated with finding parking and dealing with traffic. The cost for the shuttle is $2 round trip. Park-and-ride locations include: West Asheville Shuttle: K-Mart on Patton Avenue - Parking location: Use the K-Mart parking area, northeast corner of Patton Avenue (US-19/US-23/US-74) and Louisiana Avenue. - Downtown pick-up/drop-off location: At the Civic Center, the corner of Haywood Street and Flint Street. East Asheville Shuttle: Asheville Mall, Sears Department Store - Parking location: Use the Asheville Mall parking area in the back near the Sears Department Store near White Pine Drive. - Downtown pick-up/drop-off location: At the corner of Market Street and College Street in City/County Plaza. The shuttles will run Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 11 p.m., and; Sunday, 11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. For more information, contact 253-5691 or visit http://www.belecherefestival.com/.Labels: asheville, bele chere, events Wednesday, July 22, 2009 Nature’s Art on Display at The North Carolina Arboretum2:42 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC – Nature’s art comes to life at the North Carolina Arboretum during a special exhibit featuring works by members of the Carolinas’ Nature Photographers Association, opening August 14 at the Education Center’s second-floor gallery.
The exhibit, which runs through November 15, promotes an appreciation of our natural gifts and treasures. The Carolinas’ Nature Photographers Association (CNPA) has an ongoing effort to preserve the environment of the Carolinas through photography. The association sponsors and is involved in many projects that promote protection and understanding of the environment. Members learn and share their skills through networking, workshops, field outings and meetings. For more information about CNPA, visit our websites, www.cnpa.org and www.cnpa-asheville.org Labels: art, asheville, events, nature, nc arboretum
Asheville Tourists Begin Homestand Tonight with 'Seniors Appreciation'2:29 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - As the second half of the 2009 South Atlantic League season rolls on, the Tourists continue their battle for first place and the Playoffs, with eight games against Lakewood and Delmarva, July 22nd through the 29th. The homestand is highlighted with tons of great promotions, including a free baseball card set giveaway and a live wrestling event at the ballpark following Sunday's game.
The homestand begins Wednesday, July 22nd against the Blueclaws, and all seniors receive a free General Admission ticket, compliments of Humana. Game two is a Thirsty Thursday featuring $1 drinks, compliments of Wild Wing Café, Rock 104.9 and Star 104.3. Saturday, July 25th is a premium giveaway night at McCormick Field, and each of the first 750 fans through the gates will receive a set of uncut baseball cards. Sunday the 26th is an Ingles Family Fun Day! Following Sunday's game against Delmarva, we will hold our weekly post-game autograph session with the team and kids can run the bases, compliments of Ingles Markets. Once the field has been cleared, it will be transformed into a wrestling ring for a ten-round live wrestling event, presented by the Wrestlers Alliance Revolution. Monday night is Goodwill Night at the ballpark, where three articles of new or gently used clothing can be exchanged for a General Admission ticket. Monday is alson another Capital Bank's Mega Money Monday. The first 750 fans entering the ballpark will receive an evelope that contains cash, tickets, gift certificates, and other great prizes. If the Tourists starting pitcher throws a perfect game on a Monday everyone in attendance splits $1,000,000. Tuesday night is another Kids Eat Free game, courtesy of Papa John's, where every child in attendance receives a slice of pizza and a drink. It is also Kraft Singles Night, when you can bring in a KRAFT Singles wrapper and exchange it for a buy one get one free General Admission ticket. The homestand concludes with another Senior night on Wednesday, the 29th, when all Seniors receive a free General Admission ticket, compliments of Humana. Labels: asheville, baseball, events, sports
'Bele Chere Party All Weekend' at the Venue1:00 PM
ASHEVILLE, NC - Get out of the Heat on the Streets and cool off in The Venue, Asheville's newest full service event facility. Drinks and food will be for sale and the sounds of the Caribbean Cowboys will be playing all weekend long.
A new Event Facility located in the center of downtown Asheville, the Venue offers a specious floor plan of 13,000 + sq feet, with three unique sections. Each section has private entrances - The Market Street level, the Mezzanine and The Second floor with a beautiful balcony area overlooking the mountains of Asheville. "The Venue" offers a variety of services, from rental of china, in-house floral designers to catering services. However, the client has the flexibility to select vendors of their choice. Whether "The Venue" is needed for a Ceremony, a Reception, a Conference or a Private Celebration, the Venue is committed to orchestrate the function with finesse, attention to detail, and excellence in service. The times for the Bele Chere Party are as follows; Friday 5:00 PM-till Saturday 11:00 AM-till Sunday Noon-till Labels: asheville, bele chere, events
Bele Chere 5k Run Kicks-off on July 25th8:40 AM
ASHEVILLE, NC - The crown jewel of the Western North Carolina road racing scene will be back back for its 30th consecutive running on July 25 this year. The Bele Chere 5K is hosted by the Asheville Track Club and presented by Southcliff. Once again the race will be headquartered at historic McCormick Field. The course represents what running in Asheville is all about: a few moderate climbs, a few fast downhills and friendly people to cheer you on at the race. The race will finish two blocks from the stadium so it is just a short walk for post-race refreshments - courtesy of Citi Stop and Dunkin Donuts - the finish of the Asheville Tourists Fun Run and the awards ceremony.
Face fees are $25 for entries received after July 18 and on the day of the race. Asheville Track Club members receive a $3 discount for the 5K. The fee for the Fun Run is $7 for everyone. $2 from each 5K entry will be donated equally to the Asheville Track Club’s shoe program and the Association for Retarded Citizens. Registration can be done on-line at www.setupevents.com until Wednesday, July 24th at 10 p.m. or by completing the paper entry form. Military units, middle and high school teams, youth camps and youth running clubs may register for $15 each if 5 or more runners register from a single organization. Individual entries must be submitted together in a single envelope by July 19 to receive the discount. On-line registration is not available for group entries. Labels: asheville, bele chere, events Previous Posts
Archives
Subscribe to the Local Scoop Site Feed
Disclaimer: All imagery in Local Scoop not individually attributed, are licensed under the most recent Creative Commons License. |
|
site map | contact us | press releases | terms of use | privacy policy | © 2006-2009 ashevilleNC.com |
