The showy rose-lavender blooms that decorate Grandfather’s slopes and indicate the beginning of another breathtaking summer on the mountain have arrived early this year.  The mild winter that brought an early advent for other floral mountain displays will likely move this year’s spectacular showcase of rhododendron on the Mountain forward as well.

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 Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is hosting its annual Naturalist Weekend May 11-13. This weekend provides guests with an in-depth look at the diversity found in the mountain’s ecological communities through guided hikes and workshops.

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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This summer at Grandfather Mountain brings a brand new event, offering participants unique and new opportunities on the Mountain.  The First Annual Grandfather Mountain Campout July 27-29, is an all-weekend event hosted by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.

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 Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation has lowered the cost of the ‘Keeper for a Day’ Program this year to $150 for guests and $120 for season-pass holders. The Mountain is also beginning to offer a three-hour option in addition to the full, six-hour option.

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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An extended period of unseasonably warm weather has brought the sights and smells of an early spring to the NC High Country.  Wildflowers are blooming weeks earlier than normal and the lush, green landscape in the valleys below is making its way up the mountain flanks.

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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Advance tickets are now available for the 57th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, July 12-15.  The Highland Games are a beacon of heritage and fun where the color of hundreds of tartan plaids and the clamor of half-a-dozen bagpipe bands grace the North Carolina High Country.

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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The award-winning bluegrass band Balsam Range will appear at the Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum on Sunday, April 22 at 2 p.m.

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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Tweetsie will open for the 2012 Season on April 13th!

• 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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On Sunday, March 4th we celebrate the life of the late Dick Trundy, a decorated Marine Corps General and aviator who served as Sugar Mountain Ski Resorts Director of Operations after his retirement from the service. Dick was an avid skier who enthusiastically embraced the daily life of a ski area executive. Sadly he died of cancer in 2002.

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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This May, the inaugural “Critter Crawl” kicks off at Grandfather Mountain.  The 5K race begins in MacRae Meadows and ends at the top of Grandfather.  All proceeds will directly benefit upcoming renovations to the Grandfather Mountain eagle habitats.

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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Inspiration and creativity flourish on the beautiful 10-acre campus of Florence Thomas Art School, located along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Glendale Springs, North Carolina,  and just minutes from the New River. Here, visitors can attend half-day to five-day workshops in the fine arts, master crafts, and heritage crafts led by regional and national artisans. Affordable on-site lodging, nearby area attractions and cultural events make this the perfect vacation for individuals as well as families.

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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For the fourth straight year, Watauga Medical Center has received the Outstanding Patient Experience Award from HealthGrades. This distinction ranks Watauga Medical Center among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide based on an analysis of patient satisfaction data for 3,797 U.S. hospitals. In addition to the Overall Patient Experience Award, HealthGrades also named Watauga Medical Center among the top 5% in the U.S. for Overall Pulmonary Services in 2012.

“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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Event Location
Farthing Auditorium
733 Rivers Street
Boone, NC 28607

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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The mission of Boone Independent Restaurants is to unite the independent restaurants in and around Boone, NC to preserve the individuality of the community served by each member establishment; improve quality, service, and social responsibility of each member restaurant; and ensure the longevity of our member establishments.

Coming to visit Appalachian State is a big step in the right direction!  Whether you’re coming for your first visit through the admissions office or coming back for homecoming to that BIG game where you’ll see people you haven’t seen in years; finding a convenient, comfortable place to stay is important…after all this location will be part of the memory of Parent’s Weekend or Graduation!

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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Join the Village of Blowing Rock as we celebrate the fun side of winter at the 14th Annual Blowing Rock Winterfest! From the Chili Cook-Off to WinterPaws, from the icy Polar Plunge to WinterFeast, there’s something for all age groups at Blowing Rock Winterfest.

As the new year approaches, the Holiday Inn Express Wilkesboro is very excited to welcome  Laura Virto as the new Director of Sales for the hotel.  Laura possesses over eighteen years of proven successful sales and marketing experience along with an incredible enthusiasm, contagious to all those that meet her.

Prior to joining the Holiday Inn Express, managed by Coakley & Williams Hotel Group, Laura held the position as the Director of Membership for the Cascade Highlands Regional Tourism Association, where she was first introduced to the Wilkes County market.  Her love and appreciation for the area, now home,  combined with her commitment to providing exceptional customer service, is sure to take our team to the next level.

To contact Laura regarding hotel rooms, meeting space and  tourism, please call, 336-838-1800.  We look forward to another year working together to make Wilkesboro a destination of choice!

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 winter, Beech Mountain will play host to the first USSSA NC State Championship Snowshoe Race on January 7th at 1:00pm. Endurance athletes of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in this unique winter event, to be held the same weekend as Beech Mountain Resort’s Winterfest.

This event will include a recreational and competitive 5k run, a kids snowshoe scramble and a competitive 10k state championship race. The 10k will serve as an opportunity for athletes to qualify for the 2012 U.S. National Snowshoe Championships in Frisco, CO, in Feb.  Previous experience is not necessary to participate and free snowshoe loaners will be available for registrants.

The race will start and finish on the highest peak of the mile-high town and is sure to provide a unique experience with gorgeous views, challenging elevation changes and fun for all participants and spectators.  For more information, please call the Parks & Rec Department at 828-387-3003

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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Zipping down the mountain now has new meaning at Hawksnest. We have doubled the fun!

Recognized for having the largest Snow Tubing Park on the East Coast, we’ve added the longest Zip line Tour as well, featuring 19 cables, four of which are known in the zip line industry as super or mega zips.

Gliding through the air with ease is trouble-free. Zippers–ages five and up–enjoy the exhilarations of speeding treetop high over valleys having expansive views and threading through the forest canopy over creeks, wild turkeys, deer, groundhogs and the occasional bear. In winter, zippers can yell to their snow tubing friends from way above as they begin their journey.

For more info, visit: http://www.hawksnest-resort.com

Plan Your NC Snow Skiing Vacation! Visit: http://www.skithehighcountry.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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High in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, between the towering peaks of Grandfather Mountain and the quaint towns of Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk, you will find this historic treasure of the South. Valle Crucis, with its steep wooded mountains, has been isolated away from the busy world, and rightfully placed on the National Historical Register.

The Valle Crucis Bed & Breakfast embraces this historical community with majestic view of the River Run Horse Farm, and blends today’s finest amenities for a mountain experience you won’t soon forget. Only minutes from local attractions and dining in Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock, we are located in the heart of what the high country has to offer.

Come and relax in one of our uniquely decorated guest rooms or spacious themed suites. Select from a suite with Jacuzzi tub and King bed for those more private occasions or a room in our main bed and breakfast with a Queen bed and front porch views that will take your breath away.

To learn more, visit: http://vallecrucisbandb.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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We’ve got winter Olympians, Sugar Bear, the newest ski & snowboard equipment available for demo, fireworks, great camaraderie, authentic Southern bluegrass music, a chance to win a RIDE snowboard, real-live social networking, and a rail jam complete with prizes and giveaways.

SugarFest is sponsored by the Village of Sugar Mountain Tourism Development Authority and hosted by Sugar Mountain Resort. SugarFest is scheduled for Saturday, December 10th and Sunday, 11th, 2011.

The Highlands at Sugar 828-898-9601 Sugar Mountain Resort Accommodations / Resort Real Estate & Rentals* 800-438-4555 Dereka’s Sugar Mountain Accommodations & Realty, Inc.* 800-545-9475 Sugar Ski & Country Club* 800-634-1320 Sugar Mountain Lodging, Inc. / Sugartop* 800-858-9663 * Up to 30% off your stay at participating lodging agencies

The ninth annual, two-day festival is packed with a long list of winter activities and coincides with Sugar’s 18th Annual Adult Preseason Ski Clinic. Olympic Gold & Silver medalist Diann Roffe and US National Sugar G Champion, Keely Kelleher top the list of the ski clinic’s coaching staff.

Both Saturday and Sunday from 9:00am until 3:30pm, 2012 ski & snowboard equipment will be available for demo. Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, Dynastar, Rossignol, Ride, Line, Fisher and Forum will all be represented. You must have a valid lift/slope ticket as well as a valid driver’s license or credit card in order to demo the equipment. The Sugarfest demo is brought to you by Ski Country Sports.

1992 Olympic Figure Skating Silver Medalist, Paul Wylie dazzle us with his amazing talent followed by an on ice skating clinic and a meet and greet session Saturday at 3:00pm. No fee is required to watch Paul’s inspiring on-ice performance. However, if you would like to skate, a valid skate session ticket is required. Sugar’s ice rink is located next to the Dave Nixon Pro Shop adjacent to parking lot D and is open for one hour and thirty minutes sessions from 10:00am until 10:00pm.

With Mother Nature’s cooperation and the newly installed snowmaking machines designated solely for the tubing area, Sugar’s Tubing Park will be open for six sessions each day beginning at 10:00am and ending a 10:00pm.

The entire family will be wowed by the thunderous and spectacular fireworks display at the base of Sugar Mountain Resort, Saturday evening at 5:45pm. Après ski isn’t a thing of the past. Kick off your ski boots, pull up a chair; indulge in some good food and warm drinks while enjoying live bluegrass music by Boss Hawg from 4:00pm until 7:00pm.

Come out and watch or throw down with some the area’s best riders in the RIDE Rail Jam Expression Session at 12:00 noon on Sunday. The winner receives a RIDE snowboard. Additional prizes and giveaways provided by Alpine Ski Center and RIDE Snowboards.

Text “RIDEBOB” to 35350 or visit www.sugarfestnc.com to enter online for your chance to win one of six RIDE snowboards to be given away SugarFest weekend.

And while you’re here why not stay for a night or two! Lodging agencies within the Village of Sugar Mountain offer discounted rates for slope-side and on-mountain accommodations during SugarFest. Winter Value Packages are available too.

For more information please contact Sugar Mountain Resort at 800-SUGARMT.

Plan your High Country Ski Trip! Visit: SkiTheHighCountry.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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SUGAR MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT, NORTH CAROLINA. NOVEMBER 29, 2011 Mother Nature’s in charge! And Sugar Mountain Resort is hoping the third time’s a charm. The ski area reopens tomorrow, Wednesday, November 30, 2011 for skiing and snowboarding. Warm temperatures melted away the snow on Monday, November 21, 2011, temporarily shutting the ski area down for the second time this season.

Snowmaking began at 3 a.m. this morning and continues as temperatures dropped into the 20′s. Ray’s Weatherexpects three inches of fresh snow to blanket the slopes of Sugar Mountain by tomorrow. View Sugar’s live, streaming web cam at www.skisugar.com/sugarlive to gauge snow accumulations and slope conditions.

Tomorrow the Upper and Lower Flying Mile slopes providing a run of one mile long will be open. Summit #1 lift will operate to the 3/4′s station servicing both slopes for the day and 1/2 day sessions. Tomorrow’s lift/slope ticket prices will be $30 for an adult full-day session and $25 for an adult half-day session.

Ice skating will be open tomorrow as well. For daily skate session times please check www.skisugar.com/skating.

SugarFest, December 10th & 11th is just around the corner. If you’re looking for an early season deal, take advantage of our Winter Value Packages.

Please call 800-SUGAR-MT (784-2768) or view our website www.skisugar.com for the latest slope and weather conditions.

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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