The “Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble” hosted by the attraction’s naturalists will celebrate this memorable sight June 2-17 at 1 p.m. daily.  Grandfather’s knowledgeable guides are looking forward to sharing the beauty of this year’s blooms with park visitors.

“I am really excited to show guests this wonderful flower and plant as it is very important to the Mountain,” said Katie Gray, chief naturalist at Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “The history about Andre Michaux and the plant’s discovery is really interesting.”

The naturalists have planned guided walks to honor the native Catawba Rhododendron and educate guests on how the plant fits into the important ecological communities at Grandfather Mountain.

Found throughout the southern Appalachia, Catawba Rhododendron also hold special significance in the botanical world.  It is among only four original species of rhododendron that have been used to cultivate thousands of hybrids.  The Catawba Rhododendron covers more than 1,000 feet in elevation from MacRae Meadows to MacRae Peak where it reaches 5,845 feet. The wide range of elevation provides guests with a longer window of opportunity to see the rhododendron blooming on Grandfather. It typically first appears at overlooks near the entrance of the attraction in late May and arrives at the higher peaks near The Mile High Swinging Bridge by the end of June.

Due to this year’s unseasonably warm weather, blooms can already be found around MacRae Meadows.  Staff naturalists may plan rhododendron-focused programs earlier than June 2 if the blooms are widespread late May.

“For each Rhodo Ramble we’ll lead guests on a short walk, teach them how to identify the differences between species, take pictures and discuss the vivid colors of this stunning plant,” said Gray.  “Information boards in the Nature Museum and at the Entrance Gate will direct guests to where the ramble will begin.”  All Rhododendron Ramble activities are included in the regular attraction admission.

The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park sustainably in the public interest, provide an exceptional experience for guests, and inspire them to be good stewards of the earth’s resources.  For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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The weekend starts off Friday with the all-day Grandfather Spring Bird Count.  During the bird count, visitors will be birding at various locations around Grandfather Mountain, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and Grandfather Mountain State Park. That evening, guests will be guided throughout the park looking and listening for Grandfather’s native nocturnal animals in the Owl Prowl. Space for both of Friday’s programs is limited and reservations are necessary.

“The Owl Prowl is one of the neatest events on the Mountain.  We go to the top, discuss natural history, play owl calls and wait for the owls to return them.” said Katie Gray, chief naturalist at the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.

Saturday’s busy schedule begins with a 9:30 a.m. Wildflower Hike and a “Birds of Prey” program at 11 a.m.  Naturalist Weekend continues in the afternoon with a “Crayfish Research Project” at 1 p.m. offering participants an introduction to the project and an up-close look at some of Grandfather’s crayfish.

At 2 p.m., a Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Interpretive Ranger leads guests on the “Nature on the Edge Hike.”  This trek will follow the Extension Trail loop, starting and ending at the Black Rock Parking Area.  This moderately strenuous hike focuses on the transition of habitats from the Mountain’s flanks to ridgeline.  Space for this hike is limited and reservations are necessary.

Another plant-themed hike begins at 4 p.m. called “Trees and Shrubs of the Southern Appalachians.”  This moderately strenuous hike focuses on the native trees and shrubs on Grandfather Mountain.  This hike begins and ends at the Extension Trailhead next to the Black Rock Parking area.

Sunday’s schedule begins at 7:30 a.m. with a Birding Hike on the Profile Trail in Grandfather Mountain State Park.  “Geology of Grandfather,” a hike focusing on the unique geology of Grandfather Mountain begins at 10 a.m.

A “NASA Climate Workshop” begins at 11 a.m. and a “Habitat Animal Training” program at 1 p.m.  A “Tracking Animals” guided walk takes place at 2 p.m. and focuses on tracks and signs of animals.  The weekend will come to a close with a “Cultural Walk” at 3 p.m. followed by a “Diseases on Trees and Local Plants” program at 4 p.m.

For more information about Grandfather’s Naturalist Weekend or to make reservations for the Owl Prowl or “Nature on the Edge Hike” please call 828-733-4326.  To make reservations for the Spring Bird Count please call 828-733-3224.  For a complete schedule of the Naturalist Weekend events, please visit www.grandfather.com.

All programs and guided walks offered as part of the Naturalist Weekend are included in the regular price of admission. Those who attend for more than one day should keep their receipt from their first visit and present that for discount admission the following day.

The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park sustainably in the public interest, provide an exceptional experience for guests, and inspire them to be good stewards of the earth’s resources.  For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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During this campout, guests can spend up to three days and two nights camping in MacRae Meadows between organized events all over the Mountain.  Grandfather’s education and interpretive staff will be present in the camp area to assist novice campers, answer questions and even offer campfire treats and activities.  The campsite will be safe, cater to all levels of camping experience and welcomes families, couples, and solo adventurers throughout this weekend of wonder.

These opportunities are included in the price of registration: “Night Adventures,” “The Wonders of Bees” children’s program, a climate and weather program,  a tree and shrub walk and an orienteering workshop.  Also included in the registration price is “A Bug’s World” children’s program, a clouds and weather program,  a butterfly program, “Nature Near the Swinging Bridge” and several campfire and evening gatherings.  There are also additional, more in-depth activities like “Grandfather’s Attic Hike” and Behind the Scenes habitat tours, available at an additional charge.

Campout participants also get the added bonus of extended hours on Grandfather.  Campers receive access to the park’s overlooks, Woods Walk picnic area and walking trail and the Mile High Swinging Bridge in the morning starting 30 minutes prior to sunrise and in the evening from closing time to 30 minutes after sunrise, allowing for incredible and rare scenic photo opportunities.

Registration for the Grandfather Mountain Campout begins May 1 on www.grandfather.com.  Registration forms must be printed and mailed in.  Those who wish to resister for a guided hike and/or a Behind the Scenes Tour must be sure their registration is received by July 25.  Registration for the Campout must be received by July 27.

Campsites are $30 per night for participants or $25 per night for annual pass holders.  Admission to the park is not included in the campsite fee.  Those who attend multiple days of the campout should keep their admission receipt to receive discount admission into the park the following days of the event.  For questions about registration please call 828-733-4326.

The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park sustainably in the public interest, provide an exceptional experience for guests, and inspire them to be good stewards of the earth’s resources.  For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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The Spring Draw-a-thon is a free campus and community event that celebrates and promotes drawing, creativity, spontaneity and artistic collaboration. Students, professors and local artists (of all levels and ages) are invited to gather at TCVA, classroom 3200 to draw from life models during an all day event with the goal of creating a casual, fun atmosphere that is open to the curious novice, the devoted expert and every level in between. Participants are invited to be involved in the entire event or drop in as their schedule allows.

Attendees will have the option of drawing from live models (who will pose in rotation throughout the event) or working on personal sketches and drawing projects of their own designs. This event will include a special model session that will be “all audience friendly” with costumed models and a portrait drawing session on Saturday afternoon from 1– 3 p.m. A complete schedule can be found below.

To further promote and celebrate the vibrancy of our artistic community, these drawings will be put on temporary display in Appalachian State University’s Department of Art in Wey Hall. Email amo.asuart@gmail.com for more info.

Draw-a-thon Schedule
Saturday, April 28 from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, classroom 3200

9 a.m.              Ceremonial “Kick off”
9:15 a.m.         Drawing begins! (breakfast from Mountain Bagels, Boone Bagelry, and AMO)
12 – 1 p.m.      Break for lunch
1 – 3 p.m.        “All Audience Friendly” Model Session (costumed models)
3 – 6 p.m.        Model Sessions
6 – 7 p.m.        Pizza Dinner (provided by Hungry Howie’s and AMO)
7 – 11 p.m.      Model Sessions
11 p.m.            Event wrap-up

Sponsors
Organizational and program support is being provided by AMO and the TCVA Community Outreach Program. Community sponsors include: Hungry Howie’s Pizza, Mountain Bagels, Boone Bagelry, Cheap Joes and Art Mart. Each of these local businesses has graciously donated food or supplies for the event. A special thanks, as well, to volunteer faculty members from Appalachian’s Department of Art.

About AMO
The Arts Management Organization is a university recognized club that seeks to promote professionalism and networking within the arts fields by increasing the awareness of the arts on Appalachian State University’s campus and in the community. For more information, please email amo.asuart@gmail.com or visit www.appamo.webs.com.

About TCVA
The Turchin Center is located at 423 West King St., in Boone, NC. Hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, and Noon – 8pm, Friday. The center is closed Sunday and Monday and observes all university holidays. There is no admission charge, although donations are gratefully accepted. For additional details about the Turchin Center or the upcoming exhibition program, please call 828-262-3017 or visit www.tcva.org.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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Galleries A and B of the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts are alive with the creative musings of 16 artists, all recipients of the 2010-11 North Carolina Arts Council Artist Fellowship Awards. This project was supported by the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources, withfunding from the National Endowment for the Arts. The exhibition at the Turchin Center runs April 6 – July 28, 2012.

“These fellowships are vitally important as they support and nurture great art and artists across the state,” said Hank Foreman, Director and Chief Curator for the Turchin Center and Associate Vice Chancellor for University Communications and Cultural Affairs. “The exhibition provides an excellent opportunity for communities to participate in the arts. I think our patrons will find it engaging on many levels,” he said.

The NCAC established the artist fellowship initiative in 1980 to recognize artists for their essential roles as catalysts of innovation, creativity and stimulating dialogue in their communities. Artist contributions in the creative industries account for more than 5 percent of employment statewide.

Nancy Trovillion, NCAC’s acting director, says the program provides financial support for artists during crucial points in their careers, and the opportunity to deepen their work and explore new territory. “One of the greatest and most enduring public services an artist can perform is the creation of new work,” she said. “In this regard, the fellowships are a symbol of the state’s recognition of the value of having artists in our communities.”

Over the past 32 years, more than 500 artists have been recognized as fellows. Currently, 18fellowships of $10,000 are awarded annually. The program operates on a two-year cycle: choreographers and visual arts, crafts, film and video artists are represented in the 2010-11 cycle. This fall songwriters, composers and writers of othergenres will begin the application process for the 2012-13 cycle.

The works of the artists selected as fellows this year comprise an exhibition of metal and wood sculpture, furniture, photography, film, videography and the visual arts and crafts.

Jeff Pettus, NCAC senior program director for artists and organizations, says he is “struck by the level of commitment these individuals make to their crafts.”

“They all have stretched as artists in unique ways. And in doing so they’ve fashioned compelling realities that have the power to take us places we’ve never been before,” he said.

Meet the 2010-11 NCAC Artist Fellows

Elizabeth Brim says her metal sculptures – high heels, pillows, a ballerina’s tutu – “poke fun at what is expected of a Southern woman of my generation.”

Award-winning documentary filmmaker Phoebe Brush’s video “SPITTY,” features a father/daughter team and their subversive and politically charged ditties.

Painter Kirk Fanelly creates comical snapshots of everyday life with paint and collage. His spare, graphic style reveals narratives that unfold gradually.

Gail Fredell, a pioneer in the women’s studio furniture-making movement, specializes in finely crafted architectural tables and benches grounded in a minimalist aesthetic.

Painter and installation artist Maja Godlewska’s work explores phenomena that seem permanent, yet are subject to change and evolution, such as clouds, icebergs and weather patterns.

“I regard the camera as a tool for excavation,” says filmmaker Christopher Holmes. His films explore issues of history, environment and class, and feature people struggling to make sense of the world.

Photographer Mark Iwinski’s work re-envisions vanished landscapes by superimposing transparencies of old photographs over those of modern locations – simultaneously revealing past and present.

Installation artist Young Kim uses materials such as salt and red clay combine to create portraits that are meditations on time, memory and the human condition.

The politically charged content of Anne Lemanski’s sculptural portraits – formed with copper rod armature and artificial sinew – represent her view of the worlds’ inconsistencies and hypocrisies.

Mixed media artist Nava Lubelski combines painting and sculpture with embroidery, lace and paper cutting to examine ideas of repair and redemption – for instance, embroidery over stains on a tablecloth.

“My life’s work is to invite everyone to see a visual comedy in the makings of my hands,” says multi-media artist Sean Pace. “My creations involve many ideas. In each is a vein of sardonic humor.”

Susan Harbage Page’s photographs of possessions left behind by immigrants crossing the U.S./Mexico border document the losses and relics of transition.

Fiber artist Vita Plume creates ghostly distortions of visual and cultural identity by merging weavings and dye patterns with portraits on a digital Jacquard loom.

The traditions of daily life in ceramist Shoko Teruyama’s native Japan inspire her hand-built bowls, vases and other precious objects. Her work is alive with movement and color.

Sculptor Bob Trotman’s wooden people – often posed falling, sinking or at the moment of some impending transition – evoke both humor and anxiety.

“My goal always is to hit ‘the sweet spot’ – where parts are in exquisite relation to one another,” says assemblage artist Linda Vista. She creates small sculptures from the stuff of flea markets, antique malls and junkyards.

To learn more about the NCAC exhibition, visit:  http://tcva.org/exhibitions/520

About the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts

The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts presents exhibition, education and collection programs that support Appalachian State University’s role as a key regional educational, cultural and economic resource.

The Turchin Center is located at 423 West King St., in Boone. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m.,Tues.-Thurs. and Saturday, and Noon-8 p.m., Friday. The Center is closed Sunday and Monday, and observes all university holidays. There is no admission charge, although donations are gratefully accepted.

Foradditional details about the Turchin Center, becoming a donor, the upcoming exhibitions, to be added to the mailing list or to schedule a tour, please call (828) 262-3017 or visit www.tcva.org. You can also follow the Turchin Center on Facebook and Twitter @TurchinCenter.

Sponsors
The Turchin Center receives critical support from a group of outstanding media sponsors that are dedicated to promoting the arts in our region, including: The Mountain Times, Watauga Democrat, the High Country Press, the Winston-Salem Journal, WNC Magazine, Charter Media, Mountain Television Network, Mix 102.3, Oldies 100.7, WFDD 88.5, WDAV 89.9, WETS 89.5 and WASURocks 90.5FM.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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Sunday, April 22 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The live music picnic will begin at 11:00 a.m.  featuring musician Jeff Martin and others.   Some grilled foods (hotdogs and a vegetarian option) will be served until supplies run out.  (Or bring your own lunch and join us at the riverside picnic area).Thanks to Food Lion, Ingles, Lowes Hardware and Walmart for your support of this community event.

The activities begin at noon with a Ranger-led River Ramble.  Please wear close-toed shoes that can be worn in the river and have a change of clothing, as you will get wet.

At 1:00 p.m. River Girl Fishing & Rafting Company will provide a fly fishing demonstration near the riverside picnic area.

At 2:00 p.m. there will be a ranger-led Earth Day sing-a-long for kids in the visitor center.

At 3:00 p.m. there will be a Junior Ranger “animal signs” activity. Participants will be looking for signs of park animals on a short hike starting from the Visitor Center.

From 4:00 p.m. – 6:00pm there will be a movie shown at the visitor center with an earth/sustainability theme. Title TBA.

Also from 1:00pm – 4:00pm, the park will host the following Earth-supporting organizations and businesses to give the public the opportunity to become familiar with their ideas and services.  These include non- profit organizations such as:

Friends of High Country State Parks-The mission of Friends of High Country State Parks is to enhance and perpetuate the High Country State Parks and State Natural Areas for the enjoyment and benefit of all the state’s people.

The Nature Conservancy of NC-The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.  The Conservancy was founded in 1951 and is the world’s leading conservation organization.  Since its inception in 1977, the North Carolina Chapter has protected over 700,000 acres of critically important lands across the state including over 12,000 acres in northwestern NC.  The Conservancy has an office in Boone, NC and we own several nature preserves in the region including our Bluff Mountain preserve in Ashe County near West Jefferson.

The Appalachian Voices (Appalachian Voices is a regional non-profit committed to protecting the land, air and water of the central and southern Appalachian region by working to reduce coal’s impact on the region and advancing our vision for a cleaner energy future. Since the impacts of coal threaten Appalachian states like North Carolina more than any other single source of pollution, we have recently launched our Red, White and Water campaign to mobilize citizens to stand up for their right to clean water.)

The Blue Ridge Conservancy-“Working with willing landowners and local communities to permanently protect land and water resources with agricultural, ecological, cultural, recreational and scenic value in northwest North Carolina.”

The National Committee for the New River-(NCNR) is a multistate non-profit organization focusing on the health and preservation of the New River Watershed.  NCNR uses a 3 pronged approach in safeguarding the New River: Land Protection, Restoration, and Advocacy.  NCNR protects land critical for preserving important wildlife habitat, rare and endangered species, cornerstones of biodiversity, and working farmland along the New River and its tributaries, through voluntary acquisitions and conservation easements.  NCNR works with private landowners to stabilize eroding stream banks, restore riparian buffers to prevent further erosion, and to create healthy riparian habitat for wildlife and aquatic life.  NCNR works to increase citizens’ capacity to defend and protect the New River watershed, working with local citizens to identify and address specific land and water uses activities that threaten the New River’s health, wildlife, and scenery.

High Country Audubon Society covers Avery, Ashe, Alleghany, Watauga, and Wilkes counties and is designed to encourage beginning birders and experts alike to engage in conservation, education, and research for the birds of western North Carolina.

River Girl Fishing & Rafting Company- “At Rivergirl Fishing Company, we love to share the resources and knowledge that are at the core of our passion for fishing and floating down the river.       We offer a wide range of services tailored to the needs of our customers, including fly-fishing lessons, guided fishing trips, kayak, canoe, tube and bike rentals. Need a fishing license? We can provide that too.  Come on by the old train depot in Todd and let us help you enjoy your time outdoors in the splendid wonderland that mother nature offers.  Live. Learn. Fish! “

Riverside Canoe -The Riverside Canoe located on the South Fork of the New River in Crumpler, NC. Riverside Canoe, is a full service outfitter, offers New River canoeing in Northeastern Ashe County. With Riverside Canoe you can begin your adventures canoeing or kayaking on the beautiful south fork along the 26 mile section of the National Wild & Scenic New River.

Florence Thomas Art School-The Florence Thomas Art School is a non-profit art school that provides resources for instruction, exhibition and experience in the fine arts, master crafts and heritage crafts for Ashe County, the region and the world. It has been promoting and preserving the legacy of its founder Florence Thomas, by fostering an environment for creative thought and artistic expression, since 2007.

West Jefferson Chevrolet-  The Cruze Eco on site and they will a representative to discuss its attributes.  (West Jefferson Chevrolet Buick GMC offers a full lineup of fuel efficient cars, trucks, and SUVs.  Our vehicles are designed to meet all transportation needs while being eco-friendly.  General Motors and West Jefferson Chevrolet offer vehicles featuring the latest in fuel saving technologies such as extended range electric vehicles, two-mode hybrids, e-assist, and active fuel management.)

Blue Ridge Electric (who will be giving away CFL light bulbs to the first 50 visitors)

J & S Construction (a certified “Green builder”)-It is our mission at J.S. Construction to provide our clients with unsurpassed quality and availability every step of the way.  Our unique management strategies, scheduling techniques and professional attitudes translate into a seamless construction experience no matter the scope of the project. Whether its New Home construction, Renovations, Decks, or Additions.

B & R Energy Works LLC -Blue Ridge Energy Works has been working in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industry since we formed in 2007.  We offer solar electric, wind electric, and micro hydro electric power systems.  We also offer solar hot water systems and are happy to coordinate with your HVAC contractor to increase your heating efficiency.  We install spray foam insulation to keep your heat where it belongs, inside!

Sunny Day Homes: Sunny Day Homes is a leader in energy-efficient, green building in the High Country; we help homeowners improve the energy conservation of their existing home or help them plan and construct a new home or addition that will be gentle on the planet as well as a healthy place to live and raise kids. You can learn more about us at www.boonegreenbuilders.com or email us at boonegreenbuilders@gmail.com.

Come on out to New River State Park in support of Earth Day and the New River.  Enjoy the day with friends and family while learning a few more ways to be good stewards of our Earth and make some wholesome New River memories.

Call 336-982-2587 for more information.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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The full day option includes admission to the park, a t-shirt, lunch with the animal caretakers and six hours of experiencing the daily chores of the Grandfather Mountain Animal Habitats staff:  feeding, cleaning and caring for the five species of animals that call the habitats home.  The new half-day option, which costs $75 ($60 for season pass holders), includes admission to the park, a t-shirt and three hours of hands-on animal care.

“We hope to give people a better appreciation for our habitat staff and the wonderful animals that they care for,” said Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation President Penn Dameron.

Participants must at least 12-years-old; capable of walking up and down steep, rough terrain; wear closed-toe hiking or work boots and be willing to sign a waiver of liability.

The Keeper for A Day Program is available on certain Tuesdays, April-October.  Both the three-hour and six-hour options begin at 8 a.m.  Reservations for the program must be made at least 24 hours in advance.  A full schedule of dates can be found on www.grandfather.com.  For more information or to reserve your spot, call the Grandfather Mountain Animal Habitats at 828-733-8715.

The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park sustainably in the public interest, provide an exceptional experience for guests, and inspire them to be good stewards of the earth’s resources.  For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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One of the first spring events in the High Country is the Blue Ridge Wine & Food Festival in Blowing Rock April 11-15.  An extra day has been added to the event, now in its sixth year, to give visitors additional opportunities to take part in shopping, cooking classes, wine seminars and more.

MerleFest, April 26-29, in Wilkesboro is a festival of music described as “tradition plus” meaning the traditional music of the Appalachian region plus whatever other styles the musicians would like to play.  MerleFest, founded in 1988 in memory of Eddy Merle Watson, boasts musicians ranging from Vince Gill to Sam Bush to Los Lobos this year, plus dozens more.

The hillsides come alive in the spring with music, wildflowers, songbirds,  herbs and mushrooms.  The 4th Annual Banner Elk Herb Festival takes place May 26-27 this year with more fresh herb plants that ever before.  The event will offer arts and crafts, farmers’ market items, a kid zone, food vendors and great live music.

Many other happenings occur throughout the months of April and May including weekly wildflower walks at Grandfather Mountain State Park in April, Wednesday morning bird walks at Valle Crucis Park with the High Country Audubon Society and the 2012 kickoff of the Watauga Farmers’ Market May 5.  The Farmers’ Market will continue every Saturday through October from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Horn in the West parking lot in Boone.

For ticket information, times and more information on all High Country events please visit the High Country Host website, www.mountainsofnc.com.

North Carolina’s High Country provides the best vacation experience in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  The area includes 100 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway and many popular tourist destinations including Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Linville, Sparta, West Jefferson and Wilkesboro.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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The Grandfather Games are considered the greatest of America’s Scottish Games because of the spectacular mountain setting that is so reminiscent of Scotland. The deep blue peaks of Grandfather Mountain tower above a meadow ringed by 130 red, blue, yellow and green striped tents.

In addition to the convenience of ordering tickets ahead of time and the fact that advance tickets save $25 versus buying daily tickets during the event, this year’s advance ticket holders will receive the added benefit of a free round-trip shuttle Friday, Saturday and Sunday between the games and Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute in Boone, a $30 per-person value.  Parking at MacRae Meadows will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis for the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night events.

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games has also teamed up with several local hotels, offering discounted rates to those planning their trip in advance.

The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games is a not-for-profit organization based in Linville, NC.  Proceeds of the Highland Games go directly to scholarship efforts in the Avery County area.  For more information about the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games including advance ticket information and a full list of participating hotels, please visit www.gmhg.org or call the office at 828-733-1333.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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Balsam Range, named after the Haywood County, NC mountains where the members of the group call home, was nominated for the Emerging Artist award by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2010 and 2011 as well as Album of the Year in 2011.   They were honored with the IBMA Song of the Year award last year for “Trains I Missed.”  This “up close and personal” concert by the Western North Carolina tradition-bearers at Grandfather Mountain is a can’t-miss opportunity.

“We are excited to welcome the members of Balsam Range back to Grandfather Mountain,”  said Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation President Penn Dameron.  “The group delighted our visitors last September and we hope even more folks will take advantage of this great opportunity in April.”

Advance ticket sales begin Monday, April 9 and end Saturday, April 21 and are available on www.grandfather.com.  Adults ages 13 and up are $25 and children ages four to 12 are $15.  Children under four are always free.  The ticket price includes all day admission to Grandfather Mountain and admission to the concert.

Grandfather Mountain annual pass holders and others who have already purchased admission to the park for the day can buy tickets to the concert online for $7 in advance or at the Nature Museum for $12 the day of the show.

The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park in the public interest and participate in educational research activities.  For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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• April 13 through May 28, 2012: Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and Memorial Day Monday, May 28, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
  Note: Tweetsie Railroad is closed Monday-Thursday through May 31.
• June 1 through August 19, 2012: Open 7 days a week, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
  Tweetsie will be open until 9:00 pm on July 4th for the Fireworks Extravaganza, and July 7, 14, 21 & 28 for Cool Summer Nights.
  Note: Tweetsie Railroad is closed Monday-Thursday beginning August 20.
• August 24 through October 28, 2012: Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and Labor Day Monday, September 3, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• We will also open Friday and Saturday nights September 28 through October 27 for the Ghost Train® Halloween Festival. Gates open 7:30 pm.
  Tweetsie Railroad will be closed for the winter beginning October 28, 2012.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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On Sunday, March 18th Sugar Mountain Resort hosts the Eighth Annual Easter Egg Hunt right on the slopes. Dress up in your Easter Best costume and join Sugar Bear and Sweetie Bear on the snow in search of prize-filled eggs. In addition to the sweet treasures, other lucky hunters may strike gold and claim a sparkling trove of great giveaways. And one great hunter will find a season ski pass hidden in the grand prize egg for the 2012-2013 winter.

At the start of the hunt, participating children, who must be 12 years and younger, will load the No. 1 Summit lift promptly at 9 am. All thats required is a valid slope pass and everyone must be on skis or snowboards. Unloading at mid-station, everyone will gather at the start line and then the hunt begins down Lower Flying Mile.

Children are encouraged to wear their ‘Easter Best’ Costumes, and the top three entrants will win prizes. Judges will be looking for color, creativity, and imagination behind the outfits. So put on your bunny suit and bonnet, bring your Easter basket, and join us for another wild hare outdoor adventure at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort.

For more information please call 1-800-SUGAR-MT or visit our website www.skisugar.com/calendar

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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The Dick Trundy Sugar Cup giant slalom competition is a NASTAR style competition open to skiers and snowboarders from the age of four to seniors 65 years and up. Event registration is from 7:30 am until 8:30 am with racing beginning at 9 am on Big Red. Prizes are awarded to the top three ski and snowboard finishers in 13 categories ranging from four and under to 60 plus. Entry fee is $15.00 and participant lift tickets are $25.00. One-hundred percent of entry fees are given to the American Cancer Society in Dicks memory. Additional donations are greatly appreciated.

For more information please call 800-SUGAR-MT or visit www.skisugar.com/calendar.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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Since Grandfather Mountain added eagles to their showcase of indigenous North Carolina wildlife in 1981, these majestic birds-of-prey have been housed in an open-topped enclosure.  All the eagles that have called Grandfather Mountain home were injured by gunshot, resulting in a full or partial wing amputation and leaving them completely flightless.

Their enclosure has remained beautiful and well maintained during this period, but several problems arose as a result of the absence of a fully enclosed habitat.  Ravens, bears and other animals can enter the eagles’ home, stealing their food and posing a serious threat to their well-being.

Another drawback stemming from the park’s lack of a fully enclosed eagle habitat, is Grandfather’s inability to adopt other eagles that may be partially or fully flighted.  Even though these eagles may have the ability to fly normally, other injuries, such as eye problems, could render them unable to hunt for food and survive in the wild.

The park’s habitat staff has been tirelessly fund raising for over a year in hopes of renovating the enclosure and their efforts are continuing this May with the first annual “Critter Crawl” at Grandfather Mountain.  This 5K race begins in MacRae Meadows and ends at the top of Grandfather.  It is a charity event where runners pay a $30 admission fee to participate.  All of the money generated will directly benefit these pending renovations.

“We’ve been actively raising money for a year now in the community.  We’re excited because the hope is that this race will finally allow the improvements to begin,” said Christie Tipton, Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation habitat manager.   If the Critter Crawl is a success and all 500 running spots are filled, the renovation process will begin on the eagle habitat.

The  $30 cost per runner includes: a “Critter Crawl” t-shirt and a free day-pass for the following weekend.   T-shirts are only guaranteed for participants registering before April 19.  Awards will be presented to the top three male and female competitors.

The “Critter Crawl” race is very similar to the popular “Bear Run” held each year during the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, but is unique in that it loops through the animal habitat pathways, giving runners the opportunity to view the eagle habitats they are helping to renovate.  Online registration for the event begins March 1.

For registration information, please visit www.grandfather.com and for more information about the “Critter Crawl” or the eagle habitat renovation project, call 828-733-8715.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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The race will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 3.  To accommodate runners and race spectators, the park will end ticket sales at 4 p.m. and close at 5 p.m.

Online registration for the “Critter Crawl” begins March 1 with 500 spaces for runners available. The cost per participant is $30 and includes: a “Critter Crawl” t-shirt and a free day-pass for the following weekend.  T-shirts will not be guaranteed for participants that register after April 19.  Awards will be presented to the top three male and female competitors.

Parking passes, available during registration, are $10 per car.  Spectators will be able to park in designated parking lots on Grandfather and MacRae Meadows on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Shuttles will transport spectators to the top from each parking area.

For registration information, please visit www.grandfather.com and for more information about the “Critter Crawl” or the eagle habitat renovation project, call 828-733-8715.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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One student recently commented: ” The setting of the school and the little touches by the staff create an atmosphere where creativity can really blossom.” Another agreed, adding, ” I feel refreshed, relaxed and blessed for having the opportunity to be here.”

There is something for everyone at all artistic levels. Workshops in painting to weaving are hosted from May to October and include special programming such as Fiber Arts Heritage Craft Week and an Intergenerational Workshop in July.

For more info, visit: http://www.florencethomas.org

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER AND BETTER

Sixteen slopes, five lifts, an average snow depth of 20 to 44 inches, three tubing lanes, snowshoeing and ice skating are all available at Sugar Mountain Resort. And it just keeps getting better and better. View the slopes straight from your desktop by accessing Sugar’s live, streaming webcam www.skisugar.com/sugarlive.

Ideal snowmaking temperatures and clear skies throughout this winter season continue to provide the opportunity to expand available terrain and increase the average snow depth, oftentimes leaving snow conditions fluffy, light and forgiving. Couple that with clear, Carolina blue skies, pleasant winter temperatures and things are perfect on Sugar Mountain.

There’s lots of winter left on Sugar Mountain with the bulk of events to come. NASTAR, a public ski and snowboard race, is held at noon every Saturday and Sunday. On February 19th, Sugar hosts the High Country Junior Race Series Championship giant slalom competition. BOSS HAWG, the area’s local, bluegrass band plays every other Saturday. The return of the Spyder Sample sale begins Thursday, February 23rd. Sunday, March 4th is Sugar Bear’s Birthday. Participate in the Dick Trundy Sugar Cup on Sunday, March 4th and support the American Cancer Society. Save money with a Winter Value Package www.skisugar.com/package or when you visit anytime after March 5th. For a complete list of Sugar’s events and specials please browse www.skisugar.com/calendar.

Don’t let this winter season pass you by, enjoy a fantastic winter experience; visit Sugar Mountain Resort. For more information please call 800-SUGAR-MT or view our website www.skisugar.com.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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Puppy Kindergarten is a class for puppies from 4 months – 1 year in age focusing on socialization, problem puppy behaviors.leash walking and 6 of the basic commands.
Basic Obedience is a class for dogs over 1 year in age focusing on learning 12 basic commands with distraction and proper leash walking.
AKC Programs – Dogs do NOT have to be purebred to participate in either program
AKC STAR Puppy Program is for puppies (up to 1 year) who want to get a head start on their Canine Good Citizen skills and work through puppy problem behaviors. At the end of the 6 weeks your puppy will be tested to be enrolled in the AKC S.T.A.R program
AKC Canine Good Citizen is a class for dogs (over 1 year) who are working towards their 10 skills in the Canine Good Citizen Certification.At the end of the 6 weeks your dog will be evaluated to become an AKC Canine Good Citizen.

For more info, visit: http://www.woof-pack.net

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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“This is something for the community, the patients and the staff to be very proud of,” said Richard Sparks, President & CEO of Appalachian Regional Healthcare System, “Earning positive feedback from our patients is one of the highest honors.”

HealthGrades analyzed HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) hospital survey data obtained from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and identified those hospitals performing in the top 10% in the nation for patient satisfaction, based on survey responses from patients treated at those facilities. Hospitals had to meet bed size, survey-response size, and clinical-quality thresholds in order to be eligible for the award.

When making healthcare decisions, patients consider not only the outcome of a procedure or treatment, but the kind of experience they can expect to have at a hospital. A recent McKinsey & Co. study found that 20% of a patient’s choice is based on a hospital’s clinical reputation and 41% of patients consider patient experience measures to be an important factor in choosing a hospital. This is in sharp contrast to the conventional wisdom that such considerations are much less important.

According to HealthGrades, 80% of patients treated at the nation’s best-performing hospitals would definitely recommend the hospital compared to only 55% of patients who received care from the poorest-performing hospitals.

The more information consumers have about the health care choices available to them, the more confident they can be in selecting the best medical care for themselves and their loved ones. The Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ is a distinction generated by patients for patients.Information on award recipients and the ratings methodology is available, free to the public, at www.healthgrades.com.

“It’s clear that patients are driving higher quality in our nation’s hospitals,” said Dr. Rick May, HealthGrades Vice President of clinical quality programs. “Hospitals like Watauga Medical Center take HCAHPS survey results very seriously and invest time and resources to ensure each patient’s experience is the best possible. This is yet another example of how transparency in health care drives quality.”

When compared to hospitals performing in the bottom 10% for patient satisfaction, HealthGrades Outstanding Patient Experience Award recipient hospitals are attributed with the following:

• 45% more patients gave the hospital an overall rating of a 9 or a 10 (10 being the highest possible)
• 34% more patients responded that they always received help from staff quickly
• 24% more patients reported that the staff always explained their medications to them prior to administering them
• 19% more patients felt their pain was always well controlled
• 45% more patients reported that they would definitely recommend the hospital to their family orfriends.

About Watauga Medical Center

Watauga Medical Center, part of Appalachian Regional Healthcare System, is fully accredited by the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and licensed as a 117-bed regional referral medical complex, offering both primary and secondary acute and specialty care. In addition to the main hospital, the campus of the medical center includes The Cardiology Center of ARHS, The Sleep Center of ARHS and the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, offering both radiation and chemotherapy on an outpatient basis. The Cancer Center is recognized as an approved Community Cancer Care Center by the American College of Surgeon’s Committee on Cancer.

Other units are: The Paul H. Broyhill Wellness Center, The Rehabilitation Center, The Wound Care Center,  ARHS Home Health, which provides a full range of home care services, Appalachian Regional Pain Clinic, and a branch of the Northwest Area Health Education Center.tauga Medical Center has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for certification as a Primary Stroke Center.

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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The Blue Ridge Dinner Theater is owned and operated by Dick and Linda Copus of Winner’s Circle Restaurant & Steakhouse and former owner’s of Greenfield Restaurant. Dick and Linda have been in the restaurant business since 1990. The opening of the Blue Ridge Dinner Theater has given them the opportunity to take their restaurant experience to the next level by combining good food and good entertainment!

With the conception of the Dinner Theater, Dick and Linda strive to offer name-brand as well as local entertainment to Ashe County. It is their wish to provide something unique and different to the High Country that will bring more visitors to our area.

The Blue Ridge Dinner Buffet is included in your ticket price and provided by Winner’s Circle Restaurant & Steakhouse and is the same great buffet you new and loved at Greenfield Restaurant. You’ll have  your pick of mouth-watering entrees and side items including pan-fried chicken like Grandma used to make, roast beef, baked ham, real homemade mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, homemade biscuits and gravy. And you’ll not want to miss the homemade baked apples and cobblers. Buffet meal also includes coffee, tea, and water. Soft drinks sold separately.

Although our mailing address is 9331 Hwy. 16 S., West Jefferson, we are actually located in the small town of Glendale Springs at the old Mountain Music Jamboree.

For more info, visit: http://blueridgedinnertheater.com!

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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Contact Information
800.841.ARTS

“As complex as it gets, the music remains direct, intensely expressive–with melodic passages that stay in the memory–and reaches a satisfying, powerful climax…” – Chicago Tribune

“…expands the frontier of an emerging style of what might be called American country-classical chamber music.” – The New York Times

As performing and recording artists, composers and interpreters, technicians and stylists, the Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile have established their place among the most dynamic and talented musicians across contemporary music. These five individuals continue to push the boundaries of possibility while maintaining an unerring devotion to the basic audience experience.

Punch Brothers first came together for the making of the 2006 album, How to Grow a Woman from the Ground, which earned them a Grammy nomination for the song “The Eleventh Reel” and contains a mix of covers and original songs. From there the band began touring and adopted the name Punch Brothers before releasing their second album, Punch, in 2008. Their most recent album, Antifogmatic, includes a set of collectively written material that ventures where no string band has gone before and continues to push the boundaries of their creativity.

More info, visit: http://pas.appstate.edu/schedule/id/punch-brothers

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Remember when you were in college, how great was it to have a home cooked meal and have Mom do your laundry!  Stay at our house…the perfect way to bring the family together and still be close to the FUN at ASU.

For more info, visit: http://www.goapprentals.com/

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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Seven Devils is a beautiful mountain town in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. It began life in the 1960s as the Seven Devils Resort and it is not difficult to understand why it was considered a resort. In 1979, the resort became the Town of Seven Devils. Fortunately, becoming a Town did not diminish the resort-like qualities of Seven Devils. It is today every bit as beautiful as it was in those early years.

Seven Devils is very much a residential community. At the foot of the mountain on Highway 105 and at Tynecastle one finds some thriving businesses. The necessities such as grocery stores, hardware, gasoline, restaurants, and medical care are only a short drive away and very convenient to the town. It is comforting to know that first-class facilities are located nearby, but not within one’s backyard or view. The heart of Seven Devils is located on the “mountain.” Although commercial activity is found on the mountain at the Hawksnest facility, it is recreational in nature. Aside from Hawksnest, the only visible commercial activity is Town Hall, the Seven Devils Resort Club, and the occasional construction of new homes.

For more info, visit: http://sevendevils.net/history.aspx

The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization.  For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.

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