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contents This month’s features 3
Fun in the summertime
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Buy on the cheap
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Meal deals
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Places to play
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This issue is mostly devoted to the winners of our 2009 Family Choice Awards. After months of voting and tabulating, we proudly relate to everyone the winners chosen by those readers and thank everyone who cast a ballot. Getting parents’ opinions on things like Best Gymnastics Program or Best Family-Friendly Restaurant can be very helpful to those who are just starting out. When my twins were born, I had little idea about places to go or things to do with my kids and found other parents to be a great source of information and help. Just knowing where the local parks are was a great resource. See our sampling of area parks on Page 8. And knowing where I could take my girls to eat where they might have kid-friendly meals, deals and things for them to do was a relief at times. Find our list of family-friendly restaurants on Page 6. We also wanted to recognize our fathers in this issue as we celebrate them officially on June 21. Find suggestions for Father’s Day activities and gifts on Page 32. We hope these articles and awards make navigating our area a bit easier for our local parents.
Looking for something to do? Here are a few ideas you may not have thought of. Consigning is the way to go if you’re looking to save money on clothes, toys and furniture. We run down the shops in the area. Going out to eat doesn’t mean spending a lot of money. Many restaurants give families a break. Find out which ones. Playgrounds abound in WNC. If you need a new place to play, check out our list of parks first.
10 Family Choice Awards Find out the winners in more than 60 categories, as determined by readers.
30 In Dad’s words
What does Dad really want for Father’s Day? We asked.
32 Father’s Day ideas
We offer 10 suggestions on things to make Dad happy on his day.
Family Choice Awards, brought to you … by you
WNC PARENT PHOTO
Bobby Mercer plays with his daughter Nicole on the playground at Jackson Park in Hendersonville. Find a new playground in our story on Page 8.
Nancy Sluder Editor
42 Beefed-up grilling Here are five great cuts of beef for grilling up a delicious meal. P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 828-232-5845 I www.wncmom.com
Homemade presents
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Why buy Dad a present when you can make him a souped up toolbox or cigar box memo board?
In every issue Librarian’s Picks by Jennifer Prince ...........................26 Divorced Families by Trip Woodard.........................27 Kids Voices .......................................................31 Show and Tell ...............................................36-37 Quick Dinner ....................................................38 Video Games ....................................................39 Kids in Sports by Tom Kuyper ....................................40 Parenting in a Nutshell by Doreen Nagle.................41 Puzzles................................................................44-45 Calendar of Events ........................................46-55
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PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Randy Hammer WNC PARENT EDITOR Nancy Sluder nsluder@citizen-times.com
ADVERTISING Miranda Weerheim - 232-5980 mweerheim@gannett.com
On the cover
FEATURES EDITOR Bruce Steele bsteele@citizen-times.com
Lisa Field - 252-5907 lmfield@gannett.com
Photo special to WNC Parent.
STAFF WRITER Barbara Blake bblake@citizen-times.com
WNC PARENT DESIGNER Katie Wadington kwadington@citizen-times.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Submit in writing via P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802-2090 CALENDAR CONTENT Submit in writing via P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802-2090 or e-mail calendar@wncparent.com SUBMISSION DEADLINES Advertising deadline for the July issue is June 16 Calendar items are due by June 15
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Fast summer fun
PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON
Daphne Weimer packs sand on her daughter Chloe’s hands and feet during an afternoon at the beach at Lake Powhatan, off Bent Creek Branch Road in Bent Creek.
Fill your days with frugal, kid-friendly activities around town By Pam J. Hecht WNC Parent contributor It’s summer break, you’ve got a few hours with your kids, and you need to get out of the house. Here are 10 ideas for adventure on the cheap to add to your summer to-do list.
lery and kid-friendly eats. Asheville Regional Airport, 61 Terminal Drive, Fletcher, 684-2226; check flight schedules at flyavl.com.
Visit Grovewood Gallery
For maps, schedules and prices, go to ashevillenc.gov/residents/transportation/city_bus/ or visit the center at 49 Coxe Ave. Buncombe County Transportation: Bus connections for Enka, Candler, North Buncombe, Woodfin, Weaverville, and Black Mountain, 258-0186, buncombecounty.org/governing/ depts/Transportation/.
Enjoy a picnic among giant, garden wind sculptures at the Grovewood Gallery, behind the Grove Park Inn in Go to the airport North Asheville. Take a peek inside the Estes-Winn Memorial Automobile Have fun at the airport without Pick some fruit Museum to admire the vintage cars, setting foot on a plane. horse-drawn carriages and fire engine. While it doesn’t offer tours, the Try a local farm to pick blueberries, Sit at the bar in the Grovewood Café Asheville Regional Airport is still a raspberries and other summer fruit. great place to watch airplanes fly, says and have a Shirley Temple in grownGive them a quick rinse and eat a few up, high style. Call 253-7651 or go to Patti Michel, director of marketing there for some instant gratification. grovewood.com/about.php. and public relations. Good vantage Go online to find the farm nearest points for viewing are outside the you. Try buyappalachian.org or pickairport’s main terminal or in the Land- Board a city bus yourown.org/NCwestern.htm. mark, Odyssey or AdvantageWest Or, bypass the farm and head It doesn’t matter where you’re goparking lots, she adds. straight to the WNC Farmers Market, ing. The fun is in the ride. Inside, check out the local art gal570 Brevard Road in West Asheville Asheville Transit Center, 253-5691:
(253-1691), and make shopping for local produce and other delicacies an adventure. Have some ice cream at the deli, then stop by Jesse Israel and Sons Garden and Nursery Center across the street to gaze at tropical, carnivore and other plants, and a pond with water plants, Koi and two waterfalls.
Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway The sparkling, modern Visitor Center, on the Blue Ridge Parkway between U.S. 70 and U.S. 74-A in Asheville, features an entertaining 24-minute movie playing throughout the day, a 22-foot interactive parkway map, listening stations and interactive displays. Afterward, stroll along the Loop Trail, just steps from the center. Call 298-5330 or go to blueridgeheritage.com/aboutus/parkway destinationcenter.html.
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Frugal summer fun around town Continued from Page 3
Explore nearby waters Roll up your pants, put on some water shoes and go rock hopping. Any creek, stream or river will do (The Botanical Gardens at Asheville has a good one.) Take along some nets or small, plastic containers and see what tiny critters you can find (and gently return.)
Play at Lake Powhatan It’s not the ocean, but who cares? It’s close by and it’s a beach. With sand for castles and a chance to cool off in the lake (under the watchful eyes of a lifeguard,) what more do you need? Lake Powhatan is off Bent Creek Branch Road in Asheville, 667-0391.
Do a good deed Volunteer at a kid-friendly organization. Call the United Way helpline at 252-4357.
Hit the trail Ever been to the Holmes Educational State Forest near Hendersonville? It offers several easy, wellmarked trails with informational displays, such as the Talking Tree Trail, where you can listen to recorded messages about the trees and forest. Call 692-0100 or visit ncesf.org/HESF/. Or, visit the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville, with its kid-friendly trails
and gardens, exhibits and special programs for kids. To find other kid-friendly trails in your area, try the U.S. Forest Service at 257-4200 or an outfitter such as REI at Biltmore Park Town Square in South Asheville (which offers free outdoor journals for kids), 687-0918.
Go back to school What? Hey, it’s a whole different place in the summer and many schools have library hours. And, of course, there’s the playground.
A few more ideas ◆ Consider buying an annual pass for the WNC Nature Center, which also gets you into The Health Adventure for half-price, says Heather Rejzer, of Mills River, with two sons, ages 1 1/2 and 4. Use the pass at more than 275 aquariums, zoos and science centers nationwide, including those in nearby Greenville or Columbia, SC, and Knoxville, TN, she adds. Buy passes online at www.wildwnc.org/ friends/become-a-member. ◆ Play at the park — see our roundup of area parks on Page 8. Rent a paddleboat at Lake Julian Park, in Arden. Cool off in a city or county pool. For park/pool information, see Page 49 or visit buncombecounty.org or ashevillenc.gov. ◆ Regal movie theaters offer free movies for kids throughout the summer, regmovies.com/nowshowing/ familyfilmfestivalschedule.aspx.
PHOTO BY NANCY SLUDER
For some economical summer afternoon fun, rent a paddleboat at Lake Julian in Arden.
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Consign to save — and make — money By Alexandra Morris Staff writer Families with children may feel particularly pressed by the tight economy, but consignment shops throughout Western North Carolina offer parents different options on ways to save money and keep their kids happy and, more importantly, clothed. “Smart shoppers choose consignment because you save money, you make money, and you recycle,” said LuLu’s Consignment Boutique owner Angie Heidenreich. Below is a partial list of consignment shops that cater to kids. PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON
Children’s Trading Post 633 Merrimon Ave., Suite F, Asheville, 254-5432; and 140 Airport Road, Suite J, Arden, 684-5438. Store hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. MondaySaturday What they offer: Toys, books, videos, movies, strollers, cribs, bicycles “anything you want for a kid we will have it at one time or another,” said store owner Sandra Fowler. Clothing sizes: From size 0-18. Prices: Fowler said clothes can range from $4-$50, but the average price is $10, adding there are bicycles that range from $15-$75. On consigning: “Everything has to be clean and stain free,” Fowler said. “We’ve had a customer say it’s really hard to bring stuff in, but it’s really easy to shop.” The store accepts clothing seasonally and will take summer items until July. Consigners can pick up cash or use store credit.
Norma Zunich shops at Lulu’s Consignment Boutique on Hendersonville Road in Fletcher.
CONSIGNMENT SALES Several sales occur throughout the year in WNC. Here is a sampling of fall/winter sales: Aug. 1-4: Munchkin Market at Biltmore Square Mall. Visit munchkinmarket.com for details. Aug. 7-9: Wee Trade Best Made at WNC Agricultural Center, Fletcher. Visit wee-trade.com for sale details. Aug. 29: Asheville Moms of Multiples Fall Rummage Sale at Blue Ridge Motion Pictures, 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Asheville. Visit ashevillemom.com for details. Sept. 19-20: Super Sale hosted by Junior Women’s Club of Hendersonville. Details at jwchendersonville.org. selection of children’s clothes, LuLu’s also has baby equipment and carries new Melissa & Doug toys. Clothing sizes: Newborn to adult. Prices: Heidenreich said prices are 95 cents and higher. On consigning: As long as an item sells within 60 days, the owner will have the option of receiving cash or store credit for the donation.
Mine & Yours LuLu’s Consignment Boutique 3461 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 687-7565, ilovelulus.net. Store hours: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. MondayFriday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. What they offer: According to store owner Heidenreich, along with a large
234 New Leicester Highway, Asheville, 251-9231. Store hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. MondayFriday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. What they offer: Children’s clothing and, according to customer service representative Melody Ellege, they
carry “anything to do with infants including cribs, walker and linens.” They also have new toys and books. Clothing sizes: Newborn-size 16. Prices: Ellege said prices usually start at $3 for a set of onesies, and the highest priced item for children is $12. Furniture pieces are based on the brand, and walkers start at $12-$15. She added that a nice crib can go for $100 or more. On consigning: The store has a 90day hold period, and items must be clean and in season. Forty percent goes to the consigner..
The Revolving Door 742 Haywood Road, Asheville, 2255545.
Store hours: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. TuesdayFriday and 1-5 p.m. Saturday. What they offer: Children’s clothes, toys and VHS tapes and DVDs. Size range in clothes: Wide range of sizes from toddlers to teens. Prices: Store owner Doni Grant said clothes can range from $1-$10, and the average price is $4. She said new and gently used toys range from $2- $15. Consignment policy: Call the store for details to consign items.
Serendipity 21 Long Shoals Road, Suite 100, Arden, 650-9409, visitserendipity.com. Store hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. TuesdayFriday and 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday. What they offer: “Clothes are our big one,” said owner Dena Baysden. The store also has toys, playpens, walkers and occasionally kids’ furniture. Clothing sizes: Everything from preemie up to 16-18 for teenagers. Prices: Clothing ranges anywhere from $5- $40. “We try to stick to name brands,” Baysden said, and children’s clothes in general run at about $8. On consigning: The store is taking summer items until July and accepts 15 items per week per person. Consigners get 40 percent store credit or cash.
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Dining out is easier when kids
eat free
By Barbara Blake Staff writer Many families are cutting back on luxuries during these precarious economic times, but you shouldn’t mark eating out with the kids off your list of pleasures. A number of Asheville area restaurants have weekly or even nightly deals where children eat free or for a nominal price, allowing at least the occasional respite from kitchen and dishwashing duty. Here’s a sampling. Blue Sky Café, 3987 Hendersonville Road, 684-1247 This Fletcher eatery offers kids’ plates for $3.99 for children 10 and younger, reduced to 99 cents on Wednesdays after 4 p.m. with each adult meal ordered. Entrees, which come with a side, drink and animal cookies, range from chicken tenders and mini chicken corn dogs to grilled cheese sandwiches and tortillas. The restaurant has a special table for kids with placemats to color, along with toys and a playhouse on the patio. Tequila’s Family Mexican Restaurant, 901 Smoky Park Highway, Candler, 667-4399 Tequila’s offers a children’s menu for $3.99 for kids 12 and younger every day. On Wednesdays, one child eats free with each adult order. Entrees include burritos, enchiladas, tacos, burgers and cheese quesadillas, which
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PHOTOS BY ERIN BRETHAUER
Jonathan Gilreath, Karleigh Ring and Austen Gilreath, all 5, giggle as they eat their 99-cent meal at Moe’s Southwest Grill. come with rice and beans (except quesadillas). Papa’s and Beer, 1000 Brevard Road, 665-9070; 17 Tunnel Road, 225-2204 This Mexican restaurant offers a children’s menu for $3.75 during lunch and dinner seven days a week. Entrees
like burritos, tacos, corn dogs, burgers and shrimp come with a choice of rice and beans or fries, and a drink. Don Papa’s, 1996 Hendersonville Road, 684-4822 Kids eat for $1.99 for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Entrees
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including mini burritos, chicken fingers, burgers and Mexican pizza come with rice and beans or fries, and a drink. Shoney’s, 425 Smoky Park Highway, 6670108; 379 Long Shoals Road, 684-5097 This longstanding family dining
franchise offers meals for 99 cents for children 10 and younger after 4 p.m. Tuesdays, either from the kids menu or the buffet. Two children can eat for each adult meal ordered. Children younger than 4 eat free every night. IHOP, 245 Tunnel Road, 255-8601; 275 Smoky Park Highway, 665-9390; 229 Airport Road, 684-2828 The IHOP offers free meals for kids 12 and younger after 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Children can choose from burgers, breakfast items, mac and cheese and other entrees. Lone Star Steakhouse, 341 Rockwood Road, Arden, 684-5506 Kids 12 and younger eat free Tuesdays, choosing from mac and cheese, cheeseburger, hot dog, chicken tenders and other entrees, along with the choice of a side. Two children can eat free for every adult meal ordered. Fuddruckers, 130 Charlotte St., 254-2161 Kids 12 and younger eat free after 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Children can choose a burger, hot dog, chicken strips or grilled cheese, along with fries and a drink. Ryan’s, 1053 Patton Ave., 258-3761; 1000 Brevard Road, 665-9963 Although the children’s special is not always featured, Ryan’s frequently
has a promotion offering meals from the buffet for 99 cents for children ages 3-11 after 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Call to see if the promotion is on. Moe’s Southwest Grill, 1 Hendersonville Road, 225-6637; 300 Airport Road, 6844452 At the Biltmore Village Moe’s, kids 12 and younger eat for 99 cents on Thursday and Saturday, with three kid meals for each adult meal ordered. A face painter and balloon artist rotate each week to provide entertainment. At the Airport Road Moe’s, kids eat free Tuesdays from 5 p.m. until closing, with two kid meals for each adult meal ordered. A balloon artist is featured. Meal specials are dine-in only. La Fiesta, 2311 Hendersonville Road, 681-8550 Kids 12 and younger eat free Tuesdays, with one kid meal for each adult meal ordered. Choices include tacos, quesadillas, corn dogs, grilled cheese and mac and cheese, with rice and beans, chips or fries, cookie and drink. Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co., 675 Merrimon Ave., 254-5339 Tuesday nights from 5-8 p.m. are Family Nights, with board games, a balloon artist, family dinner specials and free sundaes for kids.
Balloon Fairy Marcie Annamora McGrath hands a rainbow balloon to Austen Gilreath during 99-cent night at Moe’s.
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Get outside and play! Your choices in WNC are nearly limitless By Barbara Blake Staff Writer No matter where you live in the Asheville area, you don’t have to go far to find a small neighborhood park with swings, monkey bars and plenty of grassy space to run in. And larger parks with picnic shelters, more expansive playgrounds and nature trails can typically be found within a couple of miles of home. Local governments — and some private community groups — have woven together an impressive labyrinth of public parks spaces throughout the area, designed to offer opportunities for exercise, family play and community building. And with rare exceptions, it’s all free. Here’s a small sampling of the dozens of offerings in our area. PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKIS
Asheville and Buncombe County Carrier Park One of the premier parks in the area, at the site of the old Asheville Speedway on Amboy Road along the river, Carrier Park offers a giant playground with wooden climbing structures, volleyball courts, a roller-hockey rink, a basketball court, multi-use track, lawn-bowling court, picnic areas, walking and biking trails and multiuse fields for baseball and soccer. For nature enthusiasts, there is a nature walk with river overlooks and a wetland interpretive educational trail. Jake Rusher Park Formerly known as Royal Pines Park, between Peachtree Street and Sycamore Drive off Sweeten Creek Road in Arden, this park features a giant playground with wooden climbing structures, tire swings, a sandbox, a swinging bridge and other attractions for families and young children. Jones Park Built by community members and volunteers in less than a week in 1999,
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Jones Park, built in 1999 behind Ira B. Jones Elementary in North Asheville, is one of many playground options in the area.
PARK INFORMATION For maps and directions or to learn about other regional and neighborhood parks, visit: Asheville: ashevillenc.gov Buncombe County: buncombecounty.org Fletcher: fletcherparks.org Henderson County: hendersoncountyrecreation.org. this park just down the hill from Ira B. Jones Elementary School off Kimberly Avenue in North Asheville features a giant wooden play structure, with castles, suspension bridges and fire poles, all nestled in a woodsy setting with a canopy of trees. Malvern Hills Park This large West Asheville park has a pool and pavilion, a playground, large picnic shelter, restrooms, lighted tennis courts and lots of grassy space to run and play. The park is on Sulphur Springs Road at Rumbough Place.
WNC PARENT PHOTO
Jake Rusher Park, formerly known as Royal Pines Park, in Arden has a play areas for both younger and older children.
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Haw Creek Park At the corner of Avon and Beverly roads in the Haw Creek community, this six-acre park features wooded walking trails, a gazebo, restrooms and picnic tables, all in walking distance of the East Asheville Center and East Branch Library. Directly behind the library is a small, shaded park ideal for younger children. Shiloh Park Located in the heart of the Shiloh neighborhood on Shiloh Road in South Asheville, the park includes a playground, picnic tables, a walking trail, ballfields, tennis court and basketball court. French Broad River Park Ideal for kids, dogs and strollers, this airy park on Amboy Road at Riverview Drive in West Asheville me-
anders along the French Broad with a paved, winding trail, a gazebo, picnic tables and grills, an observation deck and a small playground. The adjoining Dog Park has a large, fenced area for dogs to exercise and socialize. Charles D. Owen Park This 29-acre park in Swannanoa has a playground, ballfields, picnic tables and grills, restrooms and a one-mile walking and bird-watching trail. For young fishermen, two lakes at the park are open for fishing. The park is at 875 Warren Wilson College Road. Hominy Valley Park This 25-acre park in Candler has a playground, outdoor swimming pool, ball fields, a sand volleyball court, restrooms, picnic tables and lots of space to run. The park is at 25 Twin Lakes Road near Enka Lake Road.
Lake Julian Park Open year round, Lake Julian features a fenced-in park with swings and other play structures ideal for younger children, as well as picnic tables, canoeing, sailing, paddle boats and fishing, either from the shore or from Johnboats available for rent. The park is off Long Shoals Road in South Asheville. Montreat Montreat is filled with parks and recreation. Hop rocks in one of the icy streams. Play on the playground at Robert Lake Park. Or rent a paddle boat or canoe on summer afternoons at Lake Susan for $2 per half-hour from 2-6 p.m. For more information about the boats, call 669-0593 (summer only). Along Montreat Road. Visit montreat.org. Avery’s Little Corner Woodfin’s Roy Pope Memorial Park is home to “Avery’s Little Corner,” a memorial playground dedicated to Avery King, who was killed in an attack in a McDonald’s parking lot in 2006. The park has twin play castles, swings, a large sand box, slides, interactive games and a toddler play area. At 90 Elk Mountain Road.
Henderson County Fletcher Community Park This large park at 85 Howard Gap Road in Fletcher features a playground, ball fields, concessions and restrooms, disc golf, trails for biking, hiking and walking, arboretum gardens, a large picnic shelter and plenty of room to run in the grass. Kate’s Park The first park built by the town of Fletcher in 1995, Kate’s Park features a playground, a tot lot for younger children, a picnic shelter, and walking and nature trails. The park and its picnic shelter (by reservation) are a popular destination for birthday parties. Jackson Park This vast park covering 212 acres in Hendersonville includes four picnic shelters, several playgrounds, a BMX track, nine baseball fields, soccer fields, eight tennis courts and a number of walking trails. The park is home to many species of birds, wildlife and plants, making it an ideal nature observatory for family walks. The park begins at 801 Glover St., near downtown Hendersonville.
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Jewelian King, of Weaverville, enjoys the playground at Avery’s Little Corner in Woodfin.
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FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS
And the winners are…
2009
food
Which businesses in WNC are the best for families? Here’s how our readers voted
Most Family-Friendly Restaurant for Breakfast 1. IHOP 245 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 255-8601; 229 Airport Road, Arden, 684-2828; 275-B Smoky Park Highway, Asheville, 665-9390; ihop.com. 2. Cracker Barrel 34 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 350-753; 5 Crowell Road (I-40 and U.S. 19/23), Asheville, 665-2221; 344 Rockwood Road, Arden, 684-2740; crackerbarrel.com. (Tie) 3. Denny’s Several area locations. Visit dennys.com. Early Girl Eatery 8 Wall St., Asheville, 259-9292, earlygirleatery.com Shoney’s 379 Long Shoals Road, Arden, 684-5097; 425 Smoky Park Highway, Enka, 667-0108; shoneys.com. Sunny Point Café 626 Haywood Road, West Asheville, 252-0055, sunnypointcafe.com. Honorable mention: Abele’s, Angelos, Bojangles, Chick-fil-A, City Bakery, Corner Kitchen, Cornerstone, Fletcher House, Home Folks, J&S Cafeteria, JK’s Kitchen, Kosta’s, Laurey’s, McDonald’s, Moose Café, Panera, Waffle House, West End Bakery. PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON
Most Family-Friendly Restaurant for Lunch 1. Blue Sky Cafe 3987 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 684-1247; iloveblueskycafe.com. 2. McDonald’s Various area locations, mcdonalds.com.
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Stone Hogan plays at the toy table at the Blue Sky Cafe in Fletcher. The restaurant was voted best for lunch and dinner.
3. Chick-fil-A Various area locations, chickfila.com. Honorable mention: Agave Azul, Apollo Flame, Apple Annies, Applebee’s, Asheville Pizza, Asiana, Atlanta Bread Co., Bantam Chef, Barley’s Taproom, Beef o Brady’s, Bellagio, Bogarts, Cats and Dawgs, Cheddar’s, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Chuck E Cheese’s,
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CiCi’s Pizza, Clingman’s Café, Cracker Barrel, Denny’s, Early Girl Eatery, Firehouse Subs, Five Guys, Frankie Bones, Frank’s Pizza, French Fryz, Fuddruckers, Fun Depot, Havana’s, Hot Dog World , J & S Cafeteria, Jersey Mike’s, La Carreta, La Fiesta, Lucky Otter, Luella’s, Mamacitas, Marco’s, Mellow Mushroom, Miami Restaurant, Mikes on Main, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Moose Café, My Fathers Pizza, Nine Mile, Olive Garden, Panera, Papas and Beer, Pat’s
PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON
Cake decorator Brittany Flinchum works on one of her creations at the Carolina Mountain Bakery in Skyland. It won the Best Bakery category in the Family Choice Awards. Snack Bar, Picnics, Pineapple Jacks, Pizza Hut. Red Lobster, Roma’s, Roni’s Pizza, Rosetta’s, Ryan’s, Shoney’s, Subway, Sugar Beet, Texas Roadhouse, Tomato Jam Café, Urban Burrito, West End Bakery, Wild Wing Café, Zaxby’s.
Most Family-Friendly Restaurant for Dinner
citybakery.net. Honorable mention: Ashley’s Donuts and Bakery (Morganton), Atlanta Bread Co., The Bake Shoppe, Bi-Lo, Black Mountain Bakery, Blue Mountain, Blue Ridge Bakery, Cinnabon, Cold Stone Creamery, Crème Patisserie, Doughboys Doughnuts, Dunkin Donuts, Dutchy Debs, Earth Fare, Filo, Flat Rock Bakery, Fletcher Valley Natural Foods, Flowers, French Broad Chocolate Lounge, Ingles, Krispy Kreme, McFarlan Bake Shop, Panera, Paris Bakery, Sam’s Club, Short Street Cakes, Sunny Point Café, The Sisters McMullen, True Confections, Well Bred Bakery, Whitman’s Bakery.
1. Blue Sky Cafe 3987 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 6841247; iloveblueskycafe.com. 2. Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co. 675 Merrimon Ave., Asheville; 254-1281; ashevillepizza.com. 3. Applebee’s Best Ice Cream/Custard Shop Three Asheville locations, one Hendersonville 1. Marble Slab Creamery location; applebees.com. Honorable mention: Apollo Flame, Asheville Mall 14 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 225-5579; 1840 food court, Asiana, Barley’s Taproom, Bay Breeze, Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 277-0575; Beef O’Brady’s, Binions, Black Forest, Carrabba’s, 421 N. Main St., Hendersonville, Casa Torres, Cheddar’s, Chili’s, CiCi’s Pizza, Crack- 697-0480; marbleslab.com. er Barrel, Early Girl Eatery, East Village, El Rebozo, 2. The Hop Fatz Café, Fiddlin’ Pig, Five Guys, Flat Rock Grill, Frankie Bones, Frank’s Roman Pizza, French Fryz, 640 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 252-8362. Friday Friends, Fuddruckers, Fun Depot, Green Tea 3. TCBY Sushi, Hannah Flanagan’s, IHOP, J&S Cafeteria, La 1800 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 274Carreta , La Fiesta, Longhorn Steakhouse, Lucky Otter, Mamacitas, Marco’s Pizzeria, Mellow Mush- 1100. room, Modesto, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Moose Café, My Fathers Pizza, Nine Mile, O’Charley’s, Olive Garden, One Love, Papa Pizza, Papas and Beer, Pastabilities, Pomodoros, Province 620, Red Lobster, Roma’s, Rosetta’s, Ryan’s, Sonic, Stone Ridge Tavern, Stoney Knob, Texas Roadhouse, Tupelo Honey, Urban Burrito, Veracruz, Villa Roma, Waffle House, Wasabi, Westville Pub.
Honorable mention: Baskin Robbins, Cintom’s Frozen Custard, Cold Stone, Dairy King, Dairy Queen, Dolly’s Ice Cream Bar, Harry’s Grill and Piggy’s Ice Cream, Jack Frost Dairy Bar, Kamm’s, Kilwin’s, Rocking Leprechaun Ice Cream, Sonic, Tastee Freeze, The Creamery, Two Spoons, Ultimate Ice Cream, Woolworth Walk soda counter.
Best Bakery
1. Hot Dog King 63 Biltmore Ave., 253-0448 and 4 S. Tunnel Road, 298-8686, both Asheville; 2299 Smoky Park Highway, Candler, 670-1199. 2. Hot Dog World 226 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville, 6970374.
Best Hot Dog 1. Carolina Mountain Bakery 1950 Hendersonville Road, Suite 11, Asheville, 681-5066. 2. West End Bakery 757 Haywood Road, West Asheville, 2529378, onhaywood.com/westendbakery. 3. City Bakery 88 Charlotte St., Asheville, 254-4289, and 60 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 252-4426;
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3. Celebrity’s Hot Dogs 1409 Brevard Road, Asheville, 670-5954. Honorable mention: Bar-B-Que Hut, Black Bear Café, Cats and Dawgs, Coleman’s, Dairy Queen, Five Guys, French Fryz, French Fryz, Fuddruckers, Hardee’s, Market Grill, McCormick Field, Nick’s, Pressley’s, Rite Aid Coffee Counter, Ruby’s BBQ Shack, Sonic, Tastee Freeze.
Nona Mia, Papa John’s, Papa Nick’s, Pastabilities, Pizza Hut, Pomodoros Greek and Italian Café, Roma’s, Roni’s Pizza, Trio’s Pizzeria, Two Guys Pizza, Villa Roma Pizzeria, West First Wood-Fired Pizza.
FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS
2009
Best Pizza 1. Marco’s Pizzeria 946 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 285-0709; 1854 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2770004; marcos-pizzeria.com. 2. Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co. 675 Merrimon Ave., Asheville; 254-1281; ashevillepizza.com. 3. Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers 50 Broadway, Asheville, 236-9800; mellowmushroom.com. Honorable mention: Acropolis, Angelo’s, Apollo Flame, Barley’s, Bella Pizza, Bellifulla Pizza, Blue Mountain, Carrabba’s, Chuck E. Cheese’s, CiCi’s Pizza, Circle in the Square, Digable, Domino’s Pizza, Eddie Spaghetti, Frank’s Roman Pizza, Hunt Brothers Pizza, Iannucci’s, Little Caesars Pizza, Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers, Main Street Café, Mona Lisa, My Father’s Pizza, Nick and Nate’s,
Best Kids’ Menu
1. O’Charley’s 2 Kenilworth Knoll, Asheville, 281-0540, ocharleys.com. 2. (tie) Blue Sky Cafe 3987 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 6841247; iloveblueskycafe.com. Denny’s, 675 Patton Ave., Asheville, 2543600, dennys.com.
Most Family-Friendly Grocery Store 1. Ingles Multiple locations, ingles-markets.com. 2. Earth Fare 1856 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2100100, and 66 Westgate Parkway, Asheville, 253-7656, earthfare.com. 3. Harris Teeter 1378 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2745304; 637 Spartanburg Highway, Hendersonville, 697-8988; harristeeter.com. Honorable mention: Aldi, Amazing Savings, Bi-Lo, Food Lion, Fresh Market, GO Grocery Outlet,
Greenlife, Sam’s Club, Trout Lily, Wal-Mart Supercenter.
activities Best Parent/Child Program 1. KinderMusik Area licensed educators: Lora Scott, 6492320, allsoulscathedral.org/music-choirs/ kindermusik (Biltmore Village); Beth Magill, 298-9350, magills.net (downtown Asheville);
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Honorable mention: Applebee’s, Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co., Asiana, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, Bellagio, Bistro at the Biltmore Estate, Black Forest, Burger King, Carrabba’s, Cheddars, Chick-fil-A, Chili’s, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Cracker Barrel, Doc Chey’s, Don Papas, Early Girl, Fatz Café, Fiddlin’ Pig, Flat Rock Grille, Fletcher House, Frankie Bones, French Fryz, Fuddruckers, IHOP, J&S Cafeteria, La Fiesta, Longhorn Steakhouse, Lucky Otter, Luella’s Barbecue, Magnolia’s, Mamacitas, Mayfel’s, McDonald’s, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Moose Café, Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Papas and Beer, Red Lobster, Ruby Tuesday, Sagebrush, Stone Ridge Tavern, Texas Roadhouse, Tupelo Honey, Urban Burrito, Wendy’s.
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School of Dance, Miss Kellie’s Dance Studio, Merles Dance Place, Musicworks, Sole Impact, The Little Gym, Weaverville Dance Academy.
Patty Lee Book and Yvette Odell, 253-4000, ashevilleartscenter.com (North and South Asheville); Debra Huff, 206-3145 or 689-1128 (Madison County); Sonja Gorsline, 883-8538 (Brevard). 2. YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, 2109622; 3 Town Square Blvd., Asheville, 6519622; 40 Merrimon Suite 101, Asheville, 505-3990; 348 Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, 659-9622; ymcawnc.org 3. Music Together Contact Kari Richmond at 545-0990 or visit ashevilleareamt.com.
Best Paint-Your-Own Pottery Studio
FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS
1. Fired Up! Creative Lounge 26 Wall St., Asheville, 253-8181, fireduplounge.com 2. Claying Around 1378 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2770042, clayingaround.com. 3. Express Yourself 321 N. Main St., Hendersonville, 698-9960, expressyourselfstudio.com
2009
Honorable mention: Arden Presbyterian Church Preschool and Kindergarten, Asheville Arts Center, Asheville Buncombe Youth Soccer Association, Asheville Community Theatre, Barnes and Noble story times, Calvary Baptist Church, Girl Scouts, Hands On! A Children’s Gallery, Head Start, High Flight gymnastics, Jewish Community Center programs, Mama Time at Women’s Wellness Center, Marion Mommies, N.C. Arboretum, swim lessons at Leila Patterson Center, South Buncombe baseball and softball, Southeastern Fitness and Rehabilitation swim lessons, story times at public libraries, The Health Adventure, The Little Gym, Toddler Fun, Upward programs, WNC Nature Center, YWCA.
Best Gymnastics Program 1. Hahn’s Gymnastics 18 Legend Drive, Arden, 684-8832, hahnsgymnastics.com 2. High Flight Gymnastics 50 Coxe Ave., Asheville, 252-8746, highflightgym.com 3. The Little Gym 1000 Brevard Road, Suite 168, Asheville, 667-9588, tlgashevillenc.com Honorable mention: Asheville Dance Theatre, Captain Gilmer School Ackronight Gymnastics, Gymboree, Premier Cheerleading, Tiny Tots, Top Flight, Tumblemania, Xcite Cheerleading, YMCA, YWCA.
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Honorable mention: Black Mountain Studios, Brown’s Pottery, Happy Cat Pottery, Southside Arts Studio.
Best Place for Birthday Parties 1. Fun Depot 7 Roberts Road, Asheville, 277-2386, WNC PARENT PHOTO ashevillesfundepot.com. Evangelia Paulk paints her own bowl during a friend’s birthday party at Fired Up! Creative 2. Chuck E. Cheese’s Lounge, which was voted Best Paint-Your-Own-Pottery Studio. 104 River Hills Road, Asheville, 299-3750, chuckecheese.com. Brevard Music Center, Calvary Baptist Church, 3. Bounceville USA Best Music Program Cane Creek Middle School chorus, Central Metho- 614 Market St., Hendersonville, 696-4949, 1. KinderMusik dist Church, Hendersonville choir, Lisa Mazeika, bouncevilleusa.com. Area licensed educators: Lora Scott, 649Marjorie Banbeau at WNC Suziki, Marshall’s Honorable mention: Asheville city parks, AsheMusic, school band, Suzan Fehr. 2320, allsoulscathedral.org/music-choirs/ ville Pizza and Brewing Co., ASI, Azalea Park, kindermusik (Biltmore Village); Beth Magill, Biltmore Estate, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Center 298-9350, magills.net (downtown Asheville); Best Dance Program Stage Dance Studio, Climbmax, Fired Up, French Fryz, Hahn’s Gymnastics, Hands On! A Child’s Patty Lee Book and Yvette Odell, 253-4000, 1. Center Stage Dance Studio Gallery, home, Kate’s Park in Fletcher, Leila Patashevilleartscenter.com (North and South 38 Rosscraggon Road, 654-7010, terson Center, Outdoor Family Fun Center, Par-TAsheville); Debra Huff, 206-3145 or 689centerstage2.com Perfect, Southeastern Fitness and Rehabilitation pool, STJ’s Inflation Station, Tarwheels Skateway, 1128 (Madison County); Sonja Gorsline, 2. Asheville Arts Center Tarheel Lanes bowling, The Factory, The Health 883-8538 (Brevard). 308 Merrimon Ave. and 9 Summit Ave., Adventure, The Little Gym, WNC Nature Center, 2. Asheville Area Music Together Asheville, 253-4000, ashevillearts Wolverine Paintball, YMCA, Young Chefs Academy. Contact Kari Richmond at karirichcenter.com mond@charter.net or 545-0990; 3. Pat’s School of Dance Best Sports Club/League ashevilleAreaMT.com or musictogether.com. 1256 N. Main St., Hendersonville, 6921. Asheville Buncombe Youth Soccer Asso3. Asheville Arts Center 2905, patsschoolofdance.com. ciation/Highland Football Club Honorable mention: Angie’s Dance Academy, 308 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 253-4000, 299-7277, abysa.org Asheville Academy of Ballet, Asheville Ballet, and Summit Avenue, Asheville, Asheville Center for Performing Arts, Asheville 2. YMCA ashevilleartscenter.com Contemporary Dance Theatre, Asheville Dance 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, 210-9622; 3 Town Honorable mention: Asheville Community TheatTheater, Asheville School of Dance, DanceSpiraSquare Blvd., Asheville, 651-9622; re, Asheville Music School, Blue Ridge Music, tions, Idea Factory, In His Steps, Miss Jacie’s
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348 Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, 6599622; ymcawnc.org 3. Upward Programs through area churches. Information at Upward.org. Honorable mention: Asheville Racquet and Fitness Club, AYSO, Buncombe County parks, Erwin, Fletcher Parks and Recreation, Henderson County Parks and Recreation, Henderson County Youth Baseball League, Hominy Valley, NBYAA, Owen Little League, T.C. Roberson Youth Football and Cheerleading Association, South Buncombe Recreational Athletic Association, South Buncombe Youth Basketball, Transylvania Little League, Western Carolina Athletic Association, YBOA.
Best Bowling Alley 1. Tarheel Lanes 3275 Asheville Highway, Hendersonville, 2532695, tarheellanes.com PHOTO BY BILL SANDERS Riding instructor Karen Kiser works with Lola George, 8, at the 2. AMF Star Lanes Biltmore Estate Equestrian Center. The center won a Family 491 Kenilworth Road, Choice Award for best place to take horseback riding lessons. Asheville, 254-6161, amf.com 3. Sky Lanes 1477 Patton Ave., Asheville, 252-2269 Honorable mention: 8 Pins, Fun Depot, Lightning 2. (tie) Cane Creek Farm Lanes, Maple Leaf, Pisgah Lanes. 912 Cane Creek Road, Fletcher, 681-5975, canecreekfarm.org Fordbrook Stables Best Place for Swim Lessons 120 Fordbrook Road, Asheville, 667-1021, 1. YMCA fordbrookstables.com 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, 210-9622; 3 Town Willow Pond Stables Square Blvd., Asheville, 651-9622; 348 49 Lance Road, Arden, 684-0447 Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, 659-9622; Honorable mention: Eliada Homes, Everything Horse, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, Mountain Hopes, ymcawnc.org Pisgah View Ranch, Saddlebrook Stables, Sky 2. YWCA Valley Ranch, Smoky Mountain Riding, Wards 185 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, 254farm. 7543, ywca.org/asheville 3. Leila Patterson Center Best Miniature Golf 1111 Howard Gap Road, Fletcher, 654-0004, 1. Tropical Gardens lpcenter.org. 956 Patton Ave., Asheville, 252-2207 Honorable mention: Asheville Racquet Club, 2. Fun Depot Buncombe County pools, Cane Creek pool, Cheshire, Elks Club, High Vista Country Club, 7 Roberts Road, Asheville, 277-2386, asheHominy Valley pool, Jewish Community Center, villesfundepot.com Mars Hill College with Kitty Schmidt, Southeastern 3. Shadowbrook Fitness and Rehabilitation, Western Carolina University. 701 N.C. 9, Black Mountain, 669-5499
Best Place for Horseback Riding Lessons 1. Biltmore Estate Equestrian Center 225-1454, biltmore.com.
Honorable mention: Boyd Park, Outdoor Family Fun Center.
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ther Mountain, Graveyard Fields, Greybeard Trail, Holmes State Forest, Lake Powhatan, Linville Falls area, Montreat (including Lookout Mountain, Rainbow Road and Tressel Road), Max Patch, Morescove Falls, Mount Pisgah, Mountains to Sea Trail, Mount Mitchell, Pearson Falls, Pink Beds, Pisgah National Forest.
destination FAMILY CHOICE fun Best Museum
AWARDS
2009
Best Rainy-Day Activity
1. The Health Adventure 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville, 254-6373, thehealthadventure.org. 2. Hands On! A Child’s Gallery 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville, 697-8333, handsonwnc.org. 3. Pack Place 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville, 257-4500, PackPlace.org.
Honorable mention: Asheville Art Museum, Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, Colburn Earth Science Museum, Discovery Place, Folk Art Center, KidSenses, Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County, Ripley’s Aquarium, WNC Nature Center.
Most Family-Friendly Fair, Festival or Special Event 1. Mountain State Fair Sept. 11-20 at WNC Agricultural Center, Fletcher; mountainfair.org.
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1. Movies For theaters and times, visit CITIZEN-TIMES.com. 2. Fun Depot 7 Roberts Road, Asheville, 277-2386, ashevillesfundepot.com. 3. The Health Adventure 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville, 254-6373, thehealthadventure.org. PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON
Kids enjoy the dragon coaster at the Mountain State Fair. The fair was named Most FamilyFriendly Fair, Festival or Special Event.
2. Bele Chere July 24-26 in downtown Asheville; belecherefestival.com. 3. North Carolina Apple Festival Sept. 4-7 on Main Street in downtown Hendersonville; ncapplefestival.org. Honorable mention: Asheville Tourists games, Christmas, Dance Baby Dance at The Orange Peel, Earth Day, Fall Festival at Mount Carmel
Baptist Church, Farm City Day, Goombay, Greek festival, Hey Day at WNC Nature Center, Historical Morganton Festival, Lexington Avenue Arts and Family Festival, Lake Julian events, LEAF, Mars Hill festival, Mountain Sports Festival, Shindig on the Green, Sourwood Festival, Special Olympics, The Primitive Quartets Annual Singing, Twilight Tour in Brevard, White Squirrel Festival.
Honorable mention: Asheville Mall, Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co., baking, board games, Bounceville USA, bowling, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Claying Around, Fired Up, Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, High Flight Gymnastics, Historic Grove Arcade, library, McDonald’s Playplace, painting, playing Wii, reading, shopping, sleeping.
Best Summer Day Camp
1. Asheville Arts Center 308 Merrimon Ave., 253-4000, ashevilleartscenter.com. 2. YMCA Best Family-Friendly Hiking Trail 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, 210-9622; 3 Town Square Blvd., Asheville, 651-9622; 348 1. N.C. Arboretum trails Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, 659-9622; 100 Frederick Law Olmstead Way, Asheville, ymcawnc.org 665-2492, ncarboreum.org. 3. (tie) ABYSA FUNdamentals Soccer 2. Bent Creek Camps For trails in Pisgah National Forest, visit Abysa.org. cs.unca.edu/nfsnc. Asheville Jewish Community Center 3. Blue Ridge Parkway trails For information, visit nps.gov/brp or the Blue 236 Charlotte St., Asheville, 253-0701, jcc-asheville.org. Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at Milepost 384, just north of the parkway’s intersection Emmanuel Lutheran Summer Rocks! 51 Wilburn Place, Asheville, 281-8182, with U.S. 74-A. emmanuellutheranschool.org. Honorable mention: Appalachian Trail, Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, Chimney Fletcher Parks and Recreation Rock Park, Craggy Gardens, DuPont State Forest 4005 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 687trails (specifically Hooker Falls, Low Falls and 0751, fletcherparks.org Triple Falls), Fletcher Community Park, Grandfa-
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WNC Nature Center 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, 298-5600, wildwnc.org.
2. Camping 3. Beach
Honorable mention: Asheville Community Theatre, Asheville Montessori, Calvary Baptist, Camp Arrowhead for Boys, Camp Cedar Cliff, Camp Pisgah, Camp Tekoa, Carolina Day School Summer Quest, Center Stage Dance Studio, Challenger British soccer camp, Crossfire basketball camp, Earthshine, Eliada Home, Evergreen Community Charter School Summercare, FLAG Camp in Arden, Fun Depot, Henderson County Parks and Recreation, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, High Flight Gymnastics, Highland Christian Church kids’ camp, Idea Factory, Lutheridge, Montreat Conference Center, Mud Creek Baptist Church Summer Enrichment, Ridgecrest Adventure day camp, Super Summer Camp at UNC Asheville, The Health Adventure, WNC Nature Center, YWCA.
Honorable mention: Atlantic Beach, Bald Head Island, Biltmore Estate, Boone, Carowinds, Celebrity Dairy, Goat Farm and Bed-andBreakfast, Charlotte, Cherokee, Chimney Rock, Davidson River campground, Fontana Village, Hatteras, Holden Beach, Morehead City, N.C. Zoo in Asheboro, Oak Island, Ocracoke, Orchard Lake Campground, Raleigh, Southport/Wilmington, Sunset Beach, Tweetsie Railroad, Wilmington, Wolf Laurel.
Best Summer Overnight Camp
PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUER
1. Camp Tekoa Hendersonville, camptekoa.org. 2. Lutheridge Arden, lutheridge.com. 3. (tie) Camp Pisgah Brevard, girlscoutswnc.org/camp_pisgah.htm. Camp Rockmont Black Mountain, rockmont.com
Students enrolled in the Asheville Arts Center’s Acting Company for teens sing act out a play scene during a spring showcase. The center won the Best Day Camp category.
Honorable mention: Camp Carolina, Camp Cedar Cliff, Camp Daniel Boone, Camp Highlander, Camp Illahee, Camp Mondamin, Camp Ridgecrest, Crossfire basketball camp, Earthshine, Falling Creek Camp, Outward Bound, Stonebridge.
N.C. Arboretum 100 Frederick Law Olmstead Way, Asheville, 665-2492, ncarboreum.org.
Most Family-Friendly Vacation in North Carolina 1. Outer Banks
Most Family-Friendly Day-Trip Destination 1. Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and Dollywood Call 865-428-9488 or visit dollywood.com 2. WNC Nature Center 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, 298-5600, wildwnc.org. 3. (tie) Biltmore Estate Call 225-1333 or visit biltmore.com Blue Ridge Parkway For information, visit nps.gov/brp or the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at Milepost 384, just north of the parkway’s intersection with U.S. 74-A. Honorable mention: Cades Cove; Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site; Carowinds; Charleston, S.C.; Charlotte; Cherokee; Chimney Rock Park; Cradle of Forestry Discover Center; Discovery Place, Charlotte; downtown Asheville; DuPont State Forest; fish hatchery; Gatlinburg, Tenn.; gem mining; Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta; Grandfather Mountain; Graveyard Fields; Greenville, S.C. Zoo; Hot Springs; Lake James; Lake Julian; Lake Lure; Montreat; N.C. Arboretum; N.C. Zoo, Asheboro; Nantahala Outdoor Center;
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Continued from Page 17 Old Salem; Penland; Santa’s Land; Sliding Rock; Tweetsie Railroad.
Best Place to Take a Child for the Morning or Afternoon 1. WNC Nature Center 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, 298-5600, wildwnc.org 2. Park 3. Library
FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS
2009
PHOTO BY JOHN FLETCHER
The Wee Trade Best Made sale, which occurs in February and August at the WNC Ag Center, was voted Best Consignment Sale.
Honorable mention: Asheville Mall, Asheville Tourists game, Barnes & Noble, Biltmore Estate farm, Bounceville USA, Calvary Baptist Church, Carmike 10 Theater, Cherokee, Chimney Rock, Claying Around, Cradle of Forestry, Fun Depot, grandma’s house, Greenville Zoo, Growing Young Café, Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, Lake Julian, Lake Louise, Lake Tomahawk, Morris Arboretum, movies, N.C. Arboretum, Pack Place, The Health Adventure.
Best Holiday Event 1. Gingerbread houses at Grove Park Inn Competition is Nov. 16, with display through holidays. Visit groveparkinn.com. 2. Asheville Holiday Parade 3. Biltmore Estate at Christmas Runs Nov. 6-Jan. 3. Visit biltmore.com. Honorable mention: Arden Presbyterian Church’s “Singing Christmas Tree,” Bele Chere, Civic Center ice skating, Dollywood Festival of Lights, Easter egg hunt at Biltmore Estate, Hendersonville Christmas lights, Hendersonville Christmas Parade, Holly Jolly, Montford Park Players’ “A Christmas Carol,” Park Ridge Hospital’s Holiday Magic, “Return to Bethlehem,” Speedway in Lights at Bristol Motor Speedway, The Polar Express at Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, trick-or-treating in Black Mountain, Twilight Tour in Brevard, Valentine’s Day father-daughter dances, Weaverville Christmas parade, Weaverville Fourth of July fireworks, White Squirrel Festival.
entertainment
shopping
Best TV Station for the Entire Family
Best Maternity Clothing Store
1. Disney Channel, on cable and satellite systems. 2. PBS, UNC-TV, Channel 33. 3. WLOS, ABC, Channel 13.
1. Motherhood Maternity 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 296-9119; 801 Fairview Road, Asheville, 298-2229 (at Babies ‘R’ Us); motherhood.com. 2. Gap 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-8200, gap.com. 3. Old Navy 2 McKenna Road, Arden, 687-1042; 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-3150; oldnavy.com.
Honorable mention: ABC, ABC Family, Animal Planet, Boomerang, Cartoon Network, CBS, CMT, Discovery Channel, ESPN, ETWN, Food Network, Fox, Fox News, Hulu.com, NBC, Nickelodeon, Noggin, PBS Kids, TBS, TLC, TV Land, WB.
Best Radio Station for Entire Family 1. 106.9 The Light, WMIT-FM. 2. 99.9 Kiss Country, WKSF-FM. 3. Star 104.3, WQNQ-FM.
Honorable mention: Heaven Rains Boys & Girls, J.C. Penney’s, Lulu’s Consignment Boutique, Sears, Target, The Littlest Bird.
Honorable mention: 88.1 WCQS-FM; 88.7, WNCW-FM; 91.3 WLFAFM His Radio; 93.7 WFBCFM; 96.5 WOXL-FM; 98.1 100.7 WRESFM; 102.5 WMYI-FM, 104.9 WQNS-FM; 105.9 WTMT-FM; 570 WWNC-AM; NPR; Radio Disney; Sirius.
Best Consignment Store
Most Family-Friendly Movie Theater 1. Regal Biltmore Grande 292 Thetford St., Asheville, 800-326-3264. 2. Asheville Pizza and Brewing 675 Merrimon Ave., Asheville; 254-1281; ashevillepizza.com. 3. Epic Cinema 200 Thompson St., Hendersonville, 693-1146. Honorable mention: Beaucatcher, Carmike 10 Theater, Carolina Cinemas, Cinebarre, Epic, Fine Arts, Regal Cinemas.
Most Family-Friendly Stage Theater
PHOTO BY BILL SANDERS
The annual gingerbread house competition and display at the Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa won the Best Holiday Event category.
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1. Flat Rock Playhouse 2661 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock; box office, 693-0731, flatrockplayhouse.org. 2. Asheville Community Theatre 35 E. Walnut St., Asheville; box office, 254-1320; ashevillecommunitytheatre.org. 3. Diana Wortham Theatre 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville, 257-4530, dwtheatre.com. Honorable mention: Asheville Arts Center, BeBe Theatre, Montford Park Players, N.C. Stage Company, Tanglewood Children’s Theatre, Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.
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1. LuLu’s Consignment Boutique 3461 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 687-7565, ilovelulus.net. 2. Serendipity 21 Long Shoals Road, Suite 100, Arden, 650-9409, visitserendipity.com. 3. Children’s Trading Post 633 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 254-5432; 140 Airport Road, Arden, 684-5438. Honorable mention: A Fact, Enchanted Forrest, ETC Consignment Shoppe, Goodwill, Junior League Next-to-New, Mainstay’s Thrift Shop, Mine & Yours, Once Upon a Child.
Best Consignment Sale 1. Wee Trade Best Made Fall/winter sale is Aug. 7-9. Visit wee-trade.com. 2. Munchkin Market Fall/winter sale is Aug. 1-4. Visit munchkinmarket.com. 3. LuLu’s Consignment Boutique 3461 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 687-7565, ilovelulus.net. Honorable mention: ETC. Consignment Shoppe, Goodwill, Junior League Next-to-New, Mine & Yours, Mothers of Multiples sale, MOPS sale, Next-to-New Basement Sale, sale at Armory, Serendipity.
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Best Place for Children’s Furniture
FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS
1. Babies R Us 801 Fairview Road, Asheville, 298-2229, babiesrus.com. 2. (tie) LuLu’s Consignment Boutique 3461 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 6877565, ilovelulus.net. Wood You 780 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2749294, woodyou.com.
2009
Honorable mention: Ashley Furniture, David’s Bedrooms, Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity store, Haverty’s, IKEA, Iwanna, JC Penney, Munchkin Market, Penland’s, Pottery Barn, Rooms 2 Go, Slumber Kids, Stanley Furniture Outlet, USA Baby, Wal-Mart, Wee Trade Best Made, Yesterday’s Tree.
Best Store for Pet Supplies
superpetz.com. 3. Pet Supplies Plus 1856 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 277-8020, petsuppliesplus.com. Honorable mention: Asheville Aquarium, Asheville Pet Supply, Earth Fare, Exotic Pets, Pet Source, Petco, Pets’ Delights’, Pet Harmony, Soapy Dog, Tractor Supply Co., Waggers, Whiskers.
Best Children’s Shoe Store 1. Tops For Shoes 27 N. Lexington Ave., Asheville, 254-6721, topsforshoes.com 2. Stride Rite 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 296-8524, striderite.com 3. Discount Shoes 1266 Brevard Road, Asheville, 667-0085 Honorable mention: Foot Locker, GB Shoe Warehouse, Payless, Rack Room, Ross, Sears, Shoe Carnival, Target, Wal-Mart.
1. PetSmart 150 Bleachery Blvd., Asheville, 298-5670; 3 Best Children’s Clothing Store 1. Old Navy McKenna Road, 2 McKenna Road, Arden, 687-1042; 3 S. Arden, 681-5343; petsmart.com. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-3150; old2. SuperPetz navy.com. 825 Brevard Road, Asheville, 665-7977,
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PHOTO BY JOHN FLETCHER
Jessica Hensley uses her own bag as she shops at the Earth Fare grocery store on Hendersonville Road. The store was voted Best Place to Find Organics.
2. The Children’s Place 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 296-8351, childrensplace.com 3. Gap 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-8200, gap.com. Honorable mention: Aeropostale, Bon Bebe, Children’s Trading Post, Goodwill, Goody’s, Gymboree, Heaven Rains Boys and Girls, Hollister, JC Penney, Just Ducky, Justice, Kohl’s, Lulu’s Consignment Boutique, Munchkin Market, Rose’s, Ross, Sears, Serendipity, Target, The Littlest Birds, Wal-Mart, William and Grace.
Best Toy Store 1. Toys R Us 877 Brevard Road, Asheville, 665-8697, toysrus.com. 2. Dancing Bear Toys 144 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 255-8697; 418 N. Main St., Hendersonville, 693-4500; dancingbeartoys.com. 3. Toy Box 793 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 254-8697. Honorable mention: Enviro Depot, Fun Things (Waynesville), Heaven Rains Boys and Girls, KB Toys, Kmart, LuLu’s Consignment Boutique, Monkey Business, Once Upon a Time, O P Taylor’s, Target, Teacher’s Edition, The Littlest Birds, The Toy Shop, Wal-Mart, Wrinkled Egg.
Most Family-Friendly Bookstore 1. Barnes & Noble 83 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 296-9330, barnesandnoble.com. 2. Books-A-Million 136 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 299-4165, booksamillioninc.com. 3. (tie) Lifeway Christian Store 105–A River Hills Road, Asheville, 298-2101, lifeway.com.
Malaprop’s 55 Haywood St., Asheville, 254-6734, malaprops.com. Honorable mention: Accent on Books, B. Dalton, Borders, Family Christian Bookstore, Once Upon a Time, Mr. K’s Used Books, Spellbound Children’s Bookshop, Waldenbooks.
Best Place to Find Organics 1. Earth Fare 65 Westgate Parkway, Asheville, 253-7656; 1856 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2100100; earthfare.com. 2. Greenlife Grocery 70 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 254-5440, greenlifegrocery.com. 3. The Fresh Market 944 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 252-9098, freshmarket.com. Honorable mention: Amazing Savings, farmers market, GO Grocery, Grove Corner Market, The Littlest Birds, Nest Organics, tailgate markets, Trout Lily, Wrinkled Egg.
Best Place to Buy Craft Supplies 1. Michael’s 111 River Hills Road, Asheville, 299-0183; 5 McKenna Road, Arden, 684-1961; michaels.com. 2. A.C. Moore 800 Fairview Road, Suite JJ, Asheville, 2990777, acmoore.com. Honorable mention: Asheville NC HomeCrafts, Beads and Beyond, Hamrick’s, Marshalls.
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services
Best Place for Costumes 1. The Costume Shoppe 243 Haywood St., Asheville, 252-8404, costumeshoppe.net. 2. (tie) Kmart Multiple area locations, kmart.com. Wal-Mart Multiple area locations, walmart.com. Honorable mention: Asheville Mall, eBay, Halloween Express, Halloween Superstore, Hancock Fabrics, Old Navy, Spencer’s Gifts, Target, The Children’s Place, Toys R Us.
Best Shopping Center/Mall 1. Asheville Mall 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-5080, asheville-mall.com. 2. Airport Road shopping Including Southbridge and the new Wal-Mart Supercenter. 3. Biltmore Square Mall 800 Brevard Road, Asheville, 667-2308, mybiltmoresquare.com. Honorable mention: Biltmore Village, downtown Asheville, Gerber Village, Grove Arcade, Northridge Common.
Most Family-Friendly Car Dealer
FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS
2009
1. Jim Barkley Toyota 777 Brevard Road, Asheville, 667-8888, jimbarkleytoyota.com. 2. (tie) Apple Tree Honda 195 Underwood Road, Fletcher, 684-4400, appletreeautos.com. Skyland Automotive 255 Smoky Park Highway, Asheville, 3505200, skylandautomotive.com Honorable mention: Asheville Dodge, Auto Advantage, Bryan Easler Toyota, Egolf, Hendersonville Toyota, Ken Wilson Ford, Kia of Asheville, Matthews Ford, Prestige Subaru, Saturn, Subaru Asheville, Sunshine Chevrolet.
Best Hospital in which to Have a Baby 1. Mission Hospital 509 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 213-1111, missionhospitals.org 2. Park Ridge Hospital 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville, 684-
PHOTO BY JOHN FLETCHER
Dr. Angie Baechtold, left, examines Carter Meinch as he is held by his mother, Jenna Meinch, at Great Beginnings Pediatric Dentistry in Asheville. Great Beginnings won Family Choice Awards in two categories.
8501, parkridgehospital.org Honorable mention: Harris Regional Hospital, Pardee Hospital, Rutherford Hospital.
Best Pediatric Practice 1. ABC Pediatrics 64 Peachtree Road #100, Asheville, 2773000, abcasheville.com. 2. Asheville Pediatric Associates 2 Medical Park Drive, Asheville, 254-5326, ashevillepediatrics.com. 3. Mountain Area Pediatrics 500 Centre Park Drive, Asheville, 254-4337, mountainareapediatrics.com.
Baechtold, Haldeman and McKenzie) 10B Yorkshire St., Asheville, 274-9220; 50 Bowman Drive, Waynesville, 454-9156; greatbeginningspedo.com. 2. Asheville Pediatric Dentistry (Dr. Jenny Jackson) 76 Peachtree Road, Suite 100, Asheville, 277-6788, ashevillepedo.com 3. (tie) Dr. Joshua Paynich 11 Yorkshire St., Asheville, 274-4744. Williams Family Dentistry 3272 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 6818888.
Honorable mention: ABC Dental, Dr. Steve Adams, Arden Dental Group, Biltmore Dental Honorable mention: All Kids, Asheville Children’s Group, Dr. Keith Black, Dr. Barbara BowmanMedical Center, Asheville Medicine and Pediatrics, Hensley, Dr. Bob Busey, Dr. Dennis Campbell, Dr. Community Family Practice, Hendersonville PediThomas Cannon, Dr. W.S. Cozart, Dr. Jeffrey Efird, atrics, MAHEC Family Health Center, Park Ridge Ford and Fox, Dr. William Garrison, Dr. Timothy Pediatrics, Rainbow Pediatrics, Vista Family Gillespie, Dr. Amy Haldeman, Hodges and HodgHealth, Wellspring Family Practice. es, Dr. Christopher Kennerly, Dr. Robert Land, Dr. Jeffrey Loftin, Dr. James Maddox, MAHEC, Marks Family Dentistry, Dr. Terri Meinhold, Dr. Haskell T. Best Family Dentist Mills, Dr. Michael Mooney, Dr. Thomas Morton, Dr. 1. Great Beginnings (Drs. Chambers, Landon Poteat, Dr. Christopher Rebol, Reid and
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Reid, Dr. Pete Richards, Rinehart Family Dentistry, Dr. Mark Ross, Dr. Mark Scherich, Smile Starters, Dr. Matthew Stacey, Dr. James Teague, Dr. Scott Thomas, Dr. Matthew Young.
picturepeople.com. 3. Kermit & Associates 1000 Brevard Road, Suite 102, Asheville, 670-8868.
Best Orthodontist
Honorable mention: Echoes Photography, JC Penney, Zac Thomas Meltzer, Claire Moss, Olan Mills, Sears, Shutter Shack, Amber Wiseman.
1. Blue Ridge Orthodontics (Dr. Luke Roberts) 2 Walden Ridge Drive, Asheville, 687-0872, blueridgeorthodontics.com. 2. Dr. Ryan Haldeman 10B Yorkshire St., Asheville, 274-8822; 50 Bowman Drive, Waynesville, 454-9156; drhaldeman.com. 3. Dr. Keith Black 5A Yorkshire St., Asheville, 277-7103, kblacksmiles.com.
education Best Preschool 1. Montessori Country Day 158 Bradley Branch Road, Arden, 6549933, montessoricountryday.org. 2. Lutheran Church of the Nativity 2425 Hendersonville Road, Arden, 6878381, nativity.ws. 3. Emmanuel Lutheran School 51 Wilburn Place, Asheville, 281-8182, emmanuellutheranschool.org.
Honorable mention: Dr. Steven Edney, Dr. Joe Farrar, Dr. Kimberly Gragg, Dr. Alison Reid, Dr. Jeffrey Roeder, Dr. Robert Taylor, Dr. W.J. Turbyfill.
Best Family Eye Doctor 1. Asheville Eye Associates 8 Medical Park Drive B, Asheville, 258-1586; 2001 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 6842867; ashevilleeye.com. 2. (tie) Asheville Vision Associates 800 Brevard Road, Suite 772A, Asheville, 667-8856, ava2020.com. Carolina Optometric 2145 Hendersonville Road, Arden, 6818000, carolinaoptometric.com. Tunnel Vision 4 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-6500. Honorable mention: Dr. Albert Anderson, Dr. Joseph Bobbitt, Dr. James Bond, Brosnan Eye Associates, Carolina Ophthalmology, Champion Eye Center, Doctors Vision Center, Elite Eye Care, Family Eye Care, Looking Glass Eye Center, Morganton Eye Physicians, Dr. Christina Smith, Dr. Earl Sunderhaus, Dr. Elizabeth Todd, WNC Eye Care.
Best Place for Children’s Haircuts 1. Great Clips 640 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 252-9010; 1378 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 274-
PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON
School director Maggie Whitmire works with J Grout on a money-counting activity at Montessori Country Day School in Arden. It was voted Best Preschool and Best Child Care.
5353; 129 Bleachery Blvd., Asheville, 2985100; 643 Spartanburg Highway, Hendersonville, 696-1919; greatclips.com. 2. Mes Ami 1069 Haywood Road, Asheville, 232-1020; 1000 Brevard Road #175, Asheville, 2321020. 3. Beauty Parade 783 Haywood Road, Asheville, 257-4073, beautyparadesalon.com.
Best Family/Child Specialty Photographer 1. (tie) Eden Photography Asheville, 423-3700, captureeden.com. Picture People 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 296-0300,
Honorable mention: Academy of Asheville, Arden Presbyterian Preschool, Around the Son, Asheville City Schools Preschool, Asheville Montessori, Bent Creek Baptist, Beverly Hills Preschool, Biltmore Academy South, Black Mountain Presbyterian, Captain Gilmer, Carolina Academy, Grace Lutheran, Irene Wortham Center, Jewish Community Center of Asheville, Mountain Area Child and Family Center, North Asheville Preschool, Son Shine, Weaverville United Methodist.
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Honorable mention: A Cut Above, A Dwelling Place, A Gift of Hands, Adorn, Anne Mathis, Artistic Hairstyles, Atrium, Beverly Hills Spa, Bliss Salon, Blue Ribbon Salon, Body Trends, Clay Salon, Eden Salon, English and Co., Erwin Hills Barber Shop, Evolutions, Fantastic Sam’s, Fox’s, House of Hair Fashion, Jack Bell’s Barber Shop, Kim’s Cuts, L’Eau De Vie, Lola, Looking Good Barber Shop, Magic Act, Natural Impressions, Oakley Barber Shop, Oscar’s Barber Shop, Regina Bishop Head To Toe Salon, Riley’s 21 Salon, Salon 104, Shear Shack, Sherry Eby, Smart Clips, Smart Style, Steve Youngblood Hairworks, Studio 64, Tom’s, Verve, Wink
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236 Charlotte St., Asheville, 253-0701, jcc-asheville.org.
Best After-School Program
Honorable mention: Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Bell’s School for Children Under 6, Buncombe County Schools, Calvary Baptist, Captain Gilmer, Carolina Academy, Casa de Bambini, Childcare Network, Crossroads Children’s Center, Eliada, Head Start, His Kids, Irene Wortham Center, Kid Town, Little Beaver, Mountain Area Child & Family Center, North Asheville Preschool, Regent Park, Roberts Haven, YMCA, YWCA of Asheville.
FAMILY CHOICE AWARDS
2009
1. Asheville Jewish Community Center 236 Charlotte St., Asheville, 253-0701, jcc-asheville.org. 2. YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, 210-9622; 3 Town Square Blvd., Asheville, 651-9622; 348 Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, 659-9622; ymcawnc.org. 3. Montessori Country Day 158 Bradley Branch Road, Arden, 6549933, montessoricountryday.org. Honorable mention: Arden, Asheville Art Museum, ASI, Asheville Parks and Rec, Boys and Girls Club of Transylvania County, Calvary Baptist, Claxton Elementary, Emmanuel Lutheran After Care, Evergreen Community Charter School, Hahn’s Gymnastics, Hominy Valley, Salvation Army, YWCA.
Best Child Care 1. Montessori Country Day 158 Bradley Branch Road, Arden, 654-
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around town Best Park 1. Fletcher Community Park 85 Howard Gap Road, Fletcher, fletcherparks.org. 2. Carrier Park 220 Amboy Road, Asheville, ashevillenc.gov. 3. Jake Rusher (Royal Pines) Park 132 Peachtree St., Arden, ashevillenc.gov PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKIS
Tiffany Reagan enjoys a day at Fletcher Community Park — voted Best Park — with her children, Cooper Ashley, 1, and Sullivan, 8.
9933, montessoricountryday.org. 2. Biltmore Academy 1594 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2749092; 1 Pond St., Asheville, 681-0202.
3. (tie) Emmanuel Lutheran 51 Wilburn Place, Asheville, 281-8182, emmanuellutheranschool.org. Jewish Community Center
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Honorable mention: Avery’s Little Corner, Azalea Park, Barnardsville Community Center, Bent Creek’s pump track, Biltmore Forest, Biltmore Lake, Canton Rec Park, Curritan Park, DuPont State Park, East Flat Rock Park, French Broad River Park, Jackson Park, Jones Park, Kate’s Park, Kenilworth Park, Lake Julian, Lake Louise, Laurel Park, Malvern Hills Park, Martha’s Park, Montreat, N.C. Arboretum, Oakley Park, Pritchard Park, Weaver Park, Woodfin.
Most Family-Friendly Place of Worship
Honorable mention: Blue Ridge Orthodontics, Fun Depot, Irene Wortham Center, YMCA.
Best Place for Family Fun 1. Biltmore Baptist 1. Fun Depot 35 Clayton Road, Arden, 687-1111, 7 Roberts Road, Asheville, 277-2386, biltmorebaptist.org. ashevillesfundepot.com 2. Highland Christian Church Meets at The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave., 2. WNC Nature Center Asheville, 277-1637, highlandchristian.com. 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, 2985600, wildwnc.org. 3. Lutheran Church of the Nativity 3. Chuck E. Cheese’s 2425 Hendersonville Road, Arden, 684104 River Hills Road, Asheville, 299-3750, 0352, nativity.ws Honorable mention: Arden First Baptist, Arden chuckecheese.com. Presbyterian, Central United Methodist Church, Emmanuel Lutheran, First Baptist of Asheville, Fletcher United Methodist, Grace Covenant, Grace Episcopal, Jubilee, Mount Carmel Baptist, Mud Creek Baptist, New Covenant, New Life Community, North Asheville Baptist, St. Barnabas, Trinity of Fairview, Unitarian Universalist Church of Asheville, West Asheville Baptist.
1. Great Beginnings Pediatric Dentistry 10B Yorkshire St., Asheville, 274-9220; 50 Bowman Drive, Waynesville, 454-9156; greatbeginningspedo.com. 2. (tie) Park Ridge Hospital 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville, 6848501, parkridgehospital.org Public schools
Honorable mention: Barnes & Noble, downtown Asheville, Hot Springs, Lake Julian, Sante, Shoji, Spa at Biltmore Village, Usual Suspects.
Best Date Night Restaurant
1. Carrabba’s 10 Buckstone Place, Asheville, 281-2300; 332 Rockwood Road, Arden, 654-8411; carrabbas.com. Honorable mention: Asheville Pizza and Brewing 2. Zambra! Co., Bent Creek, Biltmore Estate, Biltmore Park pool, Blue Ridge Parkway, Bounceville USA, 85 W. Walnut St., Asheville, 232-1060, Carrier Park, church, Disney World, Dollywood, zambratapas.com. downtown Asheville, Fletcher Park, Grove Park Inn, 3. Frankie Bones Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, Lake Lure, McCormick Field, Music Together class, N.C. Arboretum, 2 Gerber Road, No. 101, Asheville, 274Outdoor Family Fun Center, outdoors, Tarheel 7111, frankiebonesasheville.com. Lanes, YMCA.
Most Family-Friendly Place to Work
ext. 2772, groveparkinn.com. 3. French Broad Chocolate Lounge 10 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville, 252-4181, frenchbroadchocolates.com.
just for you
Honorable mention: Biltmore Estate restaurants, Bonefish Grill, Bouchon, Cheddar’s, Cinebarre, Corner Kitchen, Doc Chey’s, Enoteca, Fatz Café, Fig, Horizons, Limones, The Lobster Trap, Magnolia’s, Mela, Olive Garden, Outback, P.F. Chang’s, Pomodoros, Red Lobster, Reza’s, Table, Tupelo Honey, Usual Suspects, Wasabi.
Best Place to Relax without Children
Best Weekend Getaway for Two
1. Home 2. Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa 290 Macon Ave., Asheville, 252-2711,
1. Gatlinburg, Tenn. 2. Charleston, S.C. 3. Grove Park Inn
Honorable mention: Atlanta; Atlantic Beach; Banner Elk; beach; Blowing Rock; camping; Carowinds; Chapel Hill; Charlotte; Cherokee; Concord; Folly Beach, S.C.; Helen, Ga.; Highland Lake Inn; Hot Springs; Inn on Biltmore Estate; Kingsmilll Resort; Little Switzerland; Myrtle Beach, S.C.; New York; Pigeon Forge, Tenn.; Roanoke, Va.; Savannah, Ga.; Sourwood Inn; Tennessee; The Swag; Valle Crucis; Winston-Salem.
Best Place to Get into Shape 1. YMCA 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, 210-9622; 3 Town Square Blvd., Asheville, 651-9622; 348 Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, 659-9622; ymcawnc.org 2. The Rush Fitness Complex Hendersonville Road and Haywood Road locations, therush247.com. 3. (tie) Cheshire Fitness & Racquet Club 25 Jane Jacobs Road, Black Mountain, 664-0400, villageofcheshire.com. Leila Patterson Center 1111 Howard Gap Road, Fletcher, 654-0004, lpcenter.org. Honorable mention: Asheville Racquet and Fitness Club, Body Shop, Curves, Fitness Factory, Jazzercise, The Pump House, Southeastern Fitness and Rehabilitation, Underdog, YWCA.
Compiled by staff writer Katie Wadington
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librarian’s picks
‘Owly’ books put focus on friendship, kindness format works perfectly with the uncomplicated plotlines and characterizations. Runton’s storylines are remarkable for their gentle, consistent focus on friendship, loyalty, bravery, Beaming with a kindness and perseverance. As the simple wisdom dynamics of these traits play out, new that embraces friends with distinct personalities are readers of all ages, introduced: the raccoon who runs the the “Owly” books garden shop, Flutter the butterfly, by Andy Runton Wormy’s family, a bluebird and a flyhave found their niche in literature. ing squirrel. The series began in 2004 with “The Certainly, the Way Home” and “The Bittersweet stories do not lack Summer.” Those stories were folfor action, but lowed by “Just a Little Blue” (2005), rather than use “Flying Lessons” (2005), “A Time to action as an Be Brave” (2007), and “Tiny Tales” adrenaline-in(2008). The featured characters are ducing device, Owly, a kind, resourceful owl, and the action Wormy, a worm who is loyal and tenshowcases der-hearted. One of the most unique and appeal- moments of honorable ing characteristics of the Owly books behavior that is that they are almost wordless. Through pictures and symbols, action lead to a happy end: and idea alike are conveyed. This By Jennifer Prince Buncombe County Public Libraries
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Owly frees fireflies from a jar and they return later to help out in a dark situation; Owly and Wormy learn to not judge an animal by their own preconceived ideas (it is a sweet opossum they meet in the woods, not a worm-andowl-eating dragon!). While many stories published today feature sparkly covers and extravagantly illustrated pages, Runton’s stories are by contrast refreshingly light and uncomplicated. At first glance, Runton’s illustrations appear to be unstudied, simple black and white line drawings. On closer study, Runton’s talent for conveying much with very little becomes clear. With an eyebrow tilted just so, or the corners of a mouth upturned just so high, or a line drawn just so thick, emotion and intent are conveyed with effica-
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cy and poignancy. Owly stories can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Young children will enjoy verbalizing the story they see playing out. Older children will enjoy the story as well as the creative way Runton conveys speech and thought: equal signs, plus signs, arrows, frowny faces, smiley faces, and so on. The storylines are simple but not so much that older children and adults will find them babyish. The messages are edifying but never dictatorial, and of such a nature as to resonate with a wide base of readers. These books are available through the Buncombe County Public Libraries. Visit www.buncombecounty.org for more information.
divorced families
Single dads have no excuses in parenting By Trip Woodard WNC Parent columnist I am a male therapist. Yes, the column picture is not misleading, except in real life I look more like Brad Pitt or George Clooney. Unfortunately, there aren’t very many of us male therapists who work with kids. Most child conferences I attend are dominated by female therapists (who are excellent therapists in their own right). Why am I sharing this with you? Because, my subsequent experience has been that many of the children I work with are starved for fathers. And if you are a single father in the making, this article is an appeal to you to not lose heart and to step up to the plate. Let’s challenge some of the myths surrounding single fathers: Myth: Only women are qualified to deal with young children. Reality: Men and women can be equally incompetent or competent when it comes to parenting young children. Or, they can have strengths and weaknesses that can complement each other over the long haul. Myth: Courts always rule in favor of single mothers. Reality: Family court strives to look at what is in the best interest of the children. Conjoint arrangements, when it makes sense based on parental interest and ability to provide, tend to be a desired outcome. Myth: Men fall apart when it comes to young children on a daily basis. Reality: Hey! I resemble that remark. Many men can learn to enhance their parenting abilities. Few things substitute for the simple things children crave such as your time playing with them. This means trying Candyland (the board game), and not just watching WWF Raw together. Here are some other tips you might find useful as a single father:
◆ Bedtime stories. This is a nobrainer, trust me. Go to the library if you need suggestions, but this is a perfect way to end the evening with your child. TV is no substitute. ◆ Limit video time for both of you, including TV, games and computers. ◆ Share all of your life with your children as far as what it means to be a family. Cook and do chores together. ◆ Pass on what you wish your father had taught you. This can include craft skills, fishing, camping, snipe hunting or even old family recipes (mine involves chili). ◆ Acquire other male friends who are single parents for support and resource information. They are often much better than any self-help book. ◆ Slow, not fast food. ◆ If you think you have “screwed up” with your children, well, maybe you have, but this is not a blueprint for the future. Guilt serves no longterm purpose. ◆ Remember the “24-hour rule” if you get mad at your ex-partner or at your kids. Try not to make long-term decisions when you are angry or hurt … give it 24 hours. ◆ Try to develop a support network if you need to “time yourself out.” Especially with adolescents, you may need to remove yourself to cool down. I heard a story about a father who would tell his daughter on every birthday something like this: “You know, you are 11 years old today, and I have never been a father of an 11-yearold. I’m going to do the best I can for the next year, but I will sometimes need your help.” Each year he would say this, but with her new age. The point being that none of these children come with owner’s manuals. Still, they need us and, usually, they can settle for us not being perfect, unless they are teenagers. But that is another article. Trip Woodard is a licensed family and marriage therapist and a clinical member of the N.C. Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Contact him at 606-8607.
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dads’ voices
What do you want for Father’s Day? We asked a few area dads what it is they’d like for Father’s Day, which is June 21. Here’s what they told staff writer Alexandra Morris.
Joseph Nolan
Ben Ayers
“Material things come and go, but what I really want more than anything else is for my family to be safe and happy.”
“A single day of peace and quiet.”
Russ Farmer “What I want is sleep because I haven’t really slept for about 10 months.”
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Alfredo Pacheco
Isaias Carmona
“Possible time with my family. [I’d like to] eat together and pass very good time.”
“I have no time with a job and things to do. I just want one day to spend time with family. My wife is expecting another baby, [and I] need more time to stay with them.”
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Charles Davis “I’d say sleep, relaxation, maybe doing this again.” (He was at Carrier Park with his family.)
kids’ voices
Let’s sit down and eat! We asked students in Patty Long’s fourth-grade class at Bell Elementary School in East Asheville to tell us about their favorite non-fast-food restaurant. Here’s what they told staff writer Barbara Blake.
Sara Lorenzo Ulage “My favorite is Olive Garden because they give kids like me crayons to draw with and a free cup you can keep. My best and favorite food is the breadsticks and salad. And it is fun when my parents are off work. They take me and we have a great time.”
Arian Cody “I love Applebee’s because they have really good and healthy food, like my favorite food, the chicken covered in teriyaki mixed with barbecue. Families can also go there for birthdays, holidays and even vacations.”
Marquise Smith
Anu Frempong
“Fisherman’s Quarters is my favorite nonfast-food restaurant to eat at. Every time I go there I always get the chicken strips and fries plate with a cherry Coke. It is the best seafood place to eat in the world, for me.”
“I love the Asian buffet because you get to eat all kinds of food that you want. Me and my family go there whenever one of us has a birthday. My favorite thing about going to Asiana is getting your food and laughing with friends and family. And you get to keep going back for more.”
Elisha Josheff
Ellie Montes
“My favorite restaurant is Asiana because my favorite food is Asian food. My favorite thing in there is shrimp cocktail. I like it in there. My dad took me there every week.”
“My favorite non-fast-food place is Frank’s. I had my birthday there, and I Estrella Gomez-Justice love some of the old drawings “My favorite they have hung place to eat is on the wall. I Cocula. My really like their godfather owns spaghetti. I don’t and runs that know why, but that’s just what I like, restaurant. I and I will go to Frank’s for some time.” love their fish and my godfather makes it special for me. Waylon Redmon He uses special ingredients and “My favorite a secret recipe.” place to eat is at my house, because it’s fancy and a homecooked meal is the best meal. I like to eat rice because if you put salt and butter on it, it is the best food in the world.”
Jacob Trexler “My favorite non-fast-food restaurant is Fuddruckers. I like it because they’re polite and respectful. My favorite food is their chicken and fries, and their sweet tea is the best. All of their food is tasty. Me and my family go there all the time.”
Ebony Blake “I like Zaxby’s because I love the way they make those chicken fingers and french fries. I love to get something out of the machine.”
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Ideas for dads
Your Father’s Day guide: Indoors and outdoors, artsy and more
By Lockie Hunter WNC Parent contributor Wondering how to make this Father’s Day a memorable one? The mountains of Western North Carolina offer many opportunities from outdoor adventures to nights on the town. We’ve gathered some great ideas that suit a variety of dads from the adventurous to the cultural.
Fine dining Treat dad to a fresh seafood lunch at the newly opened Sadie’s Seafood Pub or head next door for a steak dinner at Steak and Wine for a more upscale treat. 56 Patton Ave., Asheville, Steak and Wine: 505-3362; Sadie’s: 505-3364
The great outdoors Carolina Mountain Club Father’s Day hike For the adventurous dad, there is an all-day hike sponsored by Carolina Mountain Club. The group will camp at Cades Cove, Tenn., on June 20. On Father’s Day, hikers will climb Gregory Ridge, through old-growth forest and virgin tulip trees, said Cindy McJunkin, a hike coordinator. “The plan is that the hike will coincide with the magnificent bloom of flame azaleas on the summit of Gregory Bald,” she said. “The day will be challenging — hike 11.5 miles and climb 3,500 feet for panoramic views.” Contact McJunkin at mcjfive@aol.com for details. Asheville Drifters fly-fishing “Time spent fishing is quality time that leaves the kind of impression one never forgets and to
PHOTO BY BILL SANDERS
Etched into the glass of the front entrance of the S&W building is the logo for the Steak and Wine restaurant, one of the many downtown restaurants to take Dad to on Father’s Day.
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PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUER
One possibility for a Father’s Day outing is one of the many local golf courses. actually spend that kind of time with your father is priceless,” said Andrew Tashie, owner of Asheville Drifters, a year-round fly-fishing guide service. Asheville Drifters offers float and wade fishing trips for trophy trout and smallmouth bass. Their trips include transportation, all equipment, quality instruction, gourmet shore lunch and fly-fishing guides. Contact Asheville Drifters at 215-7379. Pontoon boating Rent a pontoon boat big enough for the entire family at Lake Lure. A 20-foot pontoon boat seats up to 10 people and can be rented for one hour, four hours or daily. Contact Lake Lure Tours, 2930 Memorial Highway, Lake Lure, 877-386-4255 for more information.
A day on the Links There are many courses in the area; below is a sampling. Be sure to call ahead to book tee times. Broadmoor Golf Links 101 French Broad Lane, Fletcher, 687-1500 Reems Creek Golf Club 36 Pink Fox Cove Road, Weaverville, 645-4393 Black Mountain Golf Club 17 Ross Drive, Black Mountain, 669-2710
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Live music and libation Asheville recently tied with Portland for Beer City USA. Bring dad to one of these establishments, which also offer live music on Sundays. Jack of the Wood Sunday nights offers Irish music starting at 5 p.m. at this downtown venue. After a day spent hiking with the kids, take dad for some pub grub and music. Open Sunday at 3 p.m. At 95 Patton Ave., Asheville, 252-5445. Barley’s Taproom Recognized as “Best Taproom in the South” in Southern Draught Beer News, Barley’s is also known for its child-friendly atmosphere. Come enjoy sourdough pizza, lasagna or sandwiches while listening to jazz by the band Pipeline on Father’s Day. Barley’s opens at noon Sundays; the jazz begins at 7:30 p.m. At 42 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 255-0504.
A little culture Flat Rock Playhouse presents “Man of La Mancha” “This play-within-a-play, based on Cervantes’ ‘Don Quixote’ is a poignant story of a man whose impossible dream takes over his mind and allows the world around him to [realize] that his dream is Everyman’s dream, his tilting at windmills is Every-
man’s great adventure,” said Dale Bartlett, associate managing director of Flat Rock Playhouse. “For Father’s Day, what better way is there to tell Dad you admire and respect him for helping his children forge the dreams that will guide them for a lifetime?” The playhouse is at 2661 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock. Call 693-0731. Quality Forward annual Father’s Day Garden Tour The Father’s Day Garden Tour is 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 21 in Biltmore Forest. Meet in the cottage beside the Biltmore Forest Town Hall on Vanderbilt Road. Tickets are $15 or two for $25. Artists connected with Handmade in America have been invited to add their art to some of the gardens. All dads receive a boutonnière, and everySPECIAL TO WNC PARENT one receives a free plant and refreshThe sun sets over the Flat Rock Playhouse. ments. Call 254-1776 or vistit in“Man of La Mancha” is its Father’s Day fo@ashevillegreenworks.org. show.
Hand-picked gifts Town Hardware and General Store A tour here is an exercise in going back in time, where shopping was leisurely and friendly. Let Dad enjoy browsing old-timey tools, toys for the
young and young at heart, and other fun items. From corncob pipes to shaving soaps and brushes, Town Hardware is a relaxing place to while away the afternoon. 103 W. State St., Black Mountain, 669-7723.
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Make Dad something special Crafts by Kathy Cano-Murillo, Gannett News Service ◆ Compiled by Katie Wadington, staff writer
Toolbox I honestly don’t think dads want another mug, tie or T-shirt. Or apron. So why not take what they already use and pimp it out artfully? That’s what I did here. Actually this was a old tool chest from about 50 or 60 some years ago. I glued washers all over it to give it an artsy edge. I PHOTOS FROM GANNETT NEWS SERVICE know — it adds zero function to the structure, but it sure looks macho cool, don’t you think? To make this, score a bottle of Liquid Fusion. It works on metal, doesn’t stink, and is very thick. And the bottle looks ultra manly, Dad will like that too.
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Cigar box memo board Is there such a thing as a macho craft project? Of course, providing you put a bit of brainpower into the concept. Crocheted golf-club covers? Not quite. Go with the popular hinged cigar box. Sure, they’ve become popular for fashionistas by way of artsy handbags and personal shrines, but they double as great memo holders. Insert layered corkboard covered in masculine fabric and you have a robust man-friendly desktop accessory. Cigar boxes can be purchased at local cigar shops (call ahead to make sure some are in stock). Supplies: 1 shallow cigar box with hinges, 1 roll of corkboard, one-quarter yard of fabric, hot glue, scissors, thumbtacks Directions: Measure the top and bottom inside panels of the box, and then cut six pieces of the corkboard to match. Take three pieces of corkboard, stack them (to ensure thickness) and place on the backside of the fabric. Trim fabric, leaving a half-inch border. Fold the border one side at a time over the backside of the stack and seal in place with hot glue. Repeat the process for the remaining three pieces of corkboard so you have two thick fabric-covered pieces of corkboard. Apply hot glue to the back of each and press them into each of the inside panels of the cigar box. Add thumbtacks. Tips and variations: Decoupage, paint, varnish or add embellishments to the sides and outside areas of the cigar box, if desired. Glue small objects like rivets, buttons, rocks, foreign coins or wood pieces to the tops of thumbtacks for a decorative effect. Instead of making it a memo board, create scrapbook pages with family photos to fit inside the panels.
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Collage paper Every dad has some kind of office or work space, right? How about a nice desk set sporting dozens of mini-images of the family? Here are other suggestions for your collage paper: cover a picture frame, print it on larger-size paper for wrapping paper, laminate it for a placemat or coasters, line a photo album, notebook or journal with it, or have the kids put their handprints on it. Supplies: Assorted pictures of kids, color copier, 1 wood tray, 1 wood file folder sorter, 1 pencil cup, decoupage medium, scissors, brush-on varnish, brush, silver paint pen Directions 1. Using a photo computer program, scan in the pictures and arrange them in small (thumbnail) squares on the page. You can repeat the images as much as you want. 2. When the entire page is covered with the pictures, print out about five
color copies. 3. Brush on a thin coat of the decoupage medium to the outside areas of the tray, sorter and cup. Carefully apply the paper. Smooth out any bubbles. Neatly trim off excess. Let dry. 4. Coat the decoupaged surfaces with brush-on varnish, let dry. Use the paint pen to draw on a nice, straight border around all the edges. Note: The best way to tackle this is to make one collage sheet of images, and then make copies from it. Keep the original for future projects. For more crafts, visit CraftyChica.com.
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We welcome photos of family, neighborhood, school, church and other social activities involving children. Send your high-resolution photos, along with a brief description of the event, and names, ages and hometowns of everyone pictured. Don’t forget your name, address and phone number. Send to Katie Wadington by e-mail at kwadington@citizen-times.com or to WNC Parent Photos, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802.
Vita Nations, of Cherokee, submitted this photo of her great-nephew, Little Man “Coug,” otherwise known as Ethan James Arch. She said Ethan, 2, loves to pick flowers and hand them to you. He is the son of Ethan and Sabrina Arch.
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Thea Moen, 9, wears a tiara her mother made, along with a hand-painted butterfly wing shawl, at the Southern Highland Craft Guild show last summer. Submitted by mom Jeanne Rhodes-Moen, of Asheville.
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Becky Amann, 5, got a new puppy named Lady for her 5th birthday. Submitted by her mom, Jennifer Amann, of Arden.
Julianna Savage, daughter of Tom and Lynn Savage, of Hendersonville, poses as a mermaid at a fundraiser for Team E.C.C.O. in February.
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Quick dinner Turkey burgers with cranberry mustard 12 ounces ground turkey Salt and pepper 1 teaspoon olive oil 4 hamburger buns 2 tablespoons wholeberry cranberry sauce 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard Season ground turkey with salt and pepper and shape into four patties. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry patties 3 to 4 minutes per side. Combine cranberry sauce and mustard in a small bowl. Place patties on buns and top with cranberry mustard. Prep time: 10 minutes. Total time: 10 minutes. Serves four. Approximate values per serving: 274 calories,10 g fat, 67 mg cholesterol, 19 g protein, 25 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 347 mg sodium, 35 percent calories from fat. Gannett News Service
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video games
Spielberg, EA throw a ‘Boom Blox Bash Party’ By Jinny Gudmundsen Gannett News Service If you own a Nintendo Wii and didn’t get last year’s “Boom Blox,” arguably the best puzzle game on the Wii, now you’ve got a shot at a new version. “Boom Blox Bash Party” has just been released and once again Steven Spielberg and Electronic Arts have collaborated to create a fabulous game that all ages can enjoy. At its core, the “Boom Blox” franchise is all about knocking down virtual block structures by aiming balls and other items at them, using movements made while holding the Wii remote. And while there is great satisfaction in toppling a block structure, the genius of the game is in the variations on that theme. This sequel offers 400 new puzzles and creative rifts on the core game play. You can explore block destruction alone in Solo mode, or with friends and family in Versus and Co-
‘BOOM BLOX BASH PARTY’ Rating: 5 stars (out of 5) Best for: ages 6 and older From Electronic Arts, boomblox. ea.com, $39.99, Nintendo Wii op modes. Within each mode, the puzzles are grouped by themes and accessed by choosing from five rides in an amusement park setting. For instance, if you choose a spaceship ride, you get to play a puzzle set in outer space. A typical puzzle opens with a large structure of different colored blocks in the center of the screen. You are challenged to knock it down, perhaps by using three throws of a ball. Where this challenge gets interesting is that the different colored blocks have different properties. If you hit a red Boom Blox, it will explode, taking down a portion of the structure with it. And if you hit a purple Vanishing Blox, it will disappear, perhaps caus-
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Dramatic explosions are the norm in “Boom Blox Bash Party,” from Steven Spielberg and Electronic Arts. ing the green Chemical Blox above and below it to touch, react to each other and explode. The variations in the puzzles derive from a variety of factors. Location is one, with some of the puzzles set in outer space with no gravity and others underwater where gravity is different than on land. Another way the puzzles vary is by the types of tools that you are given to
solve them. In some, you throw things; in others you are allowed to grab blocks to push or pull them out of structures in game play that resembles the popular game Jenga. And in others, you are given a slingshot or cannon. Each puzzle has its own rules, and you are given awards based on how well you complete each one. “Boom Blox Bash Party” is a great game for all ages because it is so simple to play and satisfying to win. It relies on the intuitive motions of throwing, pulling and aiming to complete the puzzles. And while you may not win a puzzle the first time you play it, you will enjoy the process of trying out new ideas to see if you can do it the next time. Another bonus in this game is that it has an area where you can create your own puzzles. Gudmundsen is the editor of Computing With Kids magazine. Contact her at gnstech@gannett.com.
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kids in sports
Your call: Should a technicality keep this high school runner from competing at state? By Tom Kuyper Gannett News Service I recently went to watch a regional track meet because two of my kids were involved in the competition. This time of the year in Phoenix is great for sitting in the stands and watching these athletes perform. I went through my normal preevent routine and stopped at a corner convenience store to get my 44-ounce iced tea and a big bag of sunflower seeds. Sometimes I change it up a little and go for the barbeque or the ranch flavor but decided on my normal “plain” seeds instead. Nothing exciting, just a normal, boring purchase on a normal day. Even the track meet was very normal with very few upsets. The fastest
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runners crossed the tape first, the highest jumpers cleared the highest level, and the strongest threw the farthest. It was a plain sunflower seed day. That was, until the boys’ 400-meter race: In lane 6 was one of the fastest in the state in this event. He has been one of the hardest workers that a high school track team coach could ever hope for. He is competitive and runs every race to win. He is always a lot of fun to watch as he makes such a difficult race look easy. He grabs your heart and seems to take you with him. I find myself running each race with him. There was nothing different about this race either. It was a pretty “normal” race. At the sound of the gun, he
took off with a “made for video” stride. After the first turn, he took a solid lead and stretched it out going into the final turn. Coming out of that turn he was way out in front. As he passed in front of me with 100 meters to go, something didn’t look right. The runner in lane 5 was running behind him in the same lane. Somewhere in that last turn with all the excitement and all the adrenaline he crossed over to lane 5, turning this into anything but a “plain seed” race. No penalty flags were raised, but one of the competing coaches protested the race, and it ended in a “DQ.” He crossed the finish line way in front of the other runners only to find out that he was disqualified. That meant he would not be advancing to the state finals. Unbelievably devas-
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tating. Should he be able to continue on to state? He didn’t cut the other runner off, or cause anyone to fall. He is one of the best; does he deserve to go to state? Should they have left things as they were without the coach’s protestations? The runner behind him came in second place and qualifies for the state finals, so there was no harm done there either. I knew I should have gone with the barbeque seeds. OK, now it’s up to you to make the call. Should he be disqualified and denied his chances of going to the state finals, or should he be allowed to go and compete? You make the call. (E-mail me with your response at tomkuyper@kidsandsports.com.
parenting in a nutshell
Teens should remain active in a jobless summer By Doreen Nagle Gannett News Service With the economy in the shape it’s in, teens are in the position of having to compete with overqualified adults for the same summer jobs. While this is disappointing news for all involved, it’s no excuse for your teen to just hang around the TV or spend the day only playing video games this summer. Here are some great, productive activities your teen can choose from: ◆ Volunteer as a camp counselor. Couldn’t get a paying job as a camp counselor this summer? Your teen can build his resume by volunteering to help out on a variety of levels at community day camps. Call the director of the camp to set up an interview. Ask if any special requirements are needed (i.e.: fingerprints). ◆ Your teen has many skills. Make up a flier of small jobs your teen is capable of and deliver it to neighbors. Running errands, yard cleanup, mow-
ing lawns, washing cars, dog walking, cat sitting, picking up mail for vacationing neighbors — even (or should I say especially) computer help — are all possible jobs your teen can perform around the neighborhood. ◆ Enroll your teen in your local Red Cross babysitting training. Your teen will then be trained to start a babysitting service of his or her own. Even if your teen runs the service for just a few hours each week — well, as any parent knows, a few hours to run to the grocery store (alone) or escape for a cup of java (alone) can be a real blessing if there are little ones at home being cared for by a welltrained teen. ◆ Is your teen a student athlete? Perhaps she can organize a small “camp” to teach younger children the finer points of a variety of sports. Organizing a camp such as this one can mean so much especially to children who may not be able to afford this kind of fun this summer other-
wise. ◆ The summer is a great time to learn new skills. Perhaps art lessons have always been something your child would like to enroll in, but between schoolwork and other activities during the school year, there has been no time. Money in short supply for luxuries such as outside lessons? Perhaps your child can trade his time in
simple tasks (vacuum and dust the art studio?) for the lessons. ◆ Read. Whether reading to get ahead in schoolwork or just for fun, reading something pleasurable is one of the best ways to pass lazy days. Doreen Nagle is author of “But I Don’t Feel Too Old to Be a Mommy” (HCI, $12.95). Write her at parentinginanutshell@joimail.com.
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Here’s the beef: 5 good cuts for grilling By Susan Selasky Gannett News Service With beef prices, like other food prices, on the rise, nobody wants to send that precious steak up in smoke. “When the grilling season starts it tends to go higher, and typically Father’s Day is when you also see even higher beef prices,” says Pete Loren, director of culinary development for Nino Salvaggio International Marketplace stores in Detroit. So if you see your favorite cuts on sale, stock up for the summer. Cuts like tri-tip and flatiron are options for tender meat that don’t break the bank. When grilling most beef steaks, keep these tips in mind: ∝Look for good marbling. Loren says the marbling should be creamy white. ∝Thicker cuts sear better and don’t overcook easily. Cuts should be at least 1.25 inches thick, he says. ∝Turn individual steaks only once so you get an even sear on both sides. ∝Sear large cuts, like the tri-tip
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makes it tender. Cook it no more than medium, or it will be tough. Mediumrare is best, about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on how large the piece is. Best use: It’s the preferred meat for fajitas, with many sources saying it’s the only meat for fajitas. It needs to be tenderized and marinated before grilling. Great seasoned with Southwest flavors like ground chili powders, but takes to almost any seasoning. Best tip: Always let it rest after grilling and slice against the grain. Marinating overnight is best. Grill entire piece over medium-high heat.
Tri-tip Price: $5.49-$5.99 a pound. What it is: This piece of meat looks Upscale tacos can be made with skirt steak. Skirt steak is the long, thin piece of meat with like a roast with a thick end that tatapered ends. It comes from the belly side of the animal. pers into a thinner end. It has a triangular shape. It’s cut from the butt roast, on all sides. ∝Invest in an instant-read therportion of the bottom sirloin. Santa ∝Never cut into a steak to see if it’s mometer to check the meat’s internal Maria, Calif., stakes a claim to discovcooked correctly. With the right timtemperature. ering this cut of meat and its style of ing and heat, you can judge its doneSome less familiar cuts are showing seasoning for grilling. ness. up in groceries and can be intimiWhere to buy: Some grocery stores dating. How do you cook these things? and meat shops carry this or will orAre they worth the money? Here der it. They average about 2.75 are our picks for five cuts of beef to pounds. improve your grilling pleasure. Taste/texture: Cook this to mediumrare for melt-in-your-mouth tenderSkirt steak ness. Slice it against the grain. Best use: It’s best done mediumAverage price: $4.99 a pound. What it is: A long, thin piece of meat rare, or about 130 degrees. Start it out over high heat to sear it on all sides with tapered ends. It comes from the and move it to a cooler part of the grill belly side of the animal. Relatively to finish the cooking. It’s a great way lean but with some marbling. to feed a crowd, as this roast goes a Where to buy: Many grocery stores carry skirt steak, but you may need to long way. Marinate in your favorite meat marinade or season with a rub. ask for it. Best tip: Let it rest, tented with foil, Taste/texture: Takes on the flavor of a good 10 minutes before slicing. The the seasoning or marinade. It starts juices will seal inside and it will be out as a tougher cut, but marinating GANNETT NEWS SERVICE
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easier to slice. Slice it thin, since it’s fork-tender.
Flatiron steak
Grilled flatiron steak
Basic beef marinade
1.25-1.5 pounds flatiron steaks 1/4 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 garlic cloves, peeled, crushed 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/2 teaspoon favorite all-purpose seasoning blend Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Place the steak in a plastic sealable bag. In a small glass measuring cup whisk together the remaining ingredients. Pour over the steak and marinate at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours. Preheat or prepare the grill for mediumhigh heat. Once hot, oil the grill grates. Remove the meat from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place steak on the grill and grill 5 minutes or until nicely seared on one side. You can rotate the steak about 45 degrees to create grill cross-hatch marks. Turn the steak over and move to a slightly cooler part of the grill and continue grilling about 4 minutes more for medium-rare or to desired degree of doneness. When serving, you can add steak sauce and grilled onions. Serves 6.
No need to salt this marinade or the beef before grilling. It gets a salty flavor from the soy sauce. 1/2 cup dry vermouth or dry white wine 1/3 cup 50 percent-less-sodium soy sauce 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil 1 tablespoon vinegar 2 cloves garlic, peeled, crushed 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds of your favorite beef steak In a small saucepan, combine the vermouth, soy sauce and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the oil, vinegar, garlic and pepper. Cool. Once cool, pour marinade into a large plastic sealable bag and add the steak(s). Or place in glass baking dish and pour the marinade over. Seal bag or cover dish and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. Preheat or prepare the grill for medium-high heat. Remove the meat from the marinade. Place the steaks on the grill and grill about 5 minutes per side for a 1 1/4-inch steak to medium-rare. Or grill to desired degree of doneness depending on the cut and thickness. Serves 6.
Average price: $6-$8 a pound. What it is: This is often referred to as a fabricated cut. It’s cut from the top of a top blade roast. You will sometimes see it sold as top blade steak. It’s called flatiron because it looks like an old-style flatiron. Where to buy: Nearly all grocery and meat stores sell this cut. The average steak is 1.25-1.5 pounds. Taste/texture: This is billed as being second in tenderness to beef tenderloin. It has some marbling, which gives it a terrific mild beefy flavor. Best use: Marinate as you would any steak, though it doesn’t need to marinate long to become tender. This cut takes well to seasoning, but a sprinWhere to buy: Any grocery store will kling of salt and freshly ground pephave them. These are cut from the rib per is often enough. roast. If you can, ask your meat cutter Best tip: Cut into portions and grill to cut these on the thick side, about as you would your favorite steak, or 1.33-1.5 inches. grill it whole. Grill over medium-high Taste/texture: These are similar in on the first side to sear it, turn and texture to a strip. Much of this cut’s finish on a cooler part of the grill. Let great flavor comes from its marbling. it rest at least five minutes before Best use: An all-around steak that slicing against the grain. This is a steak that typically has good marbling. has good marbling throughout. Loren good cut for beef satay. For easier Season with dry rubs or marinate. prefers to use a dry rub because it slicing into strips for satay, freeze it Best tip: Make slits in the fat so it for 30-40 minutes first. doesn’t curl when grilling, especially if the fat is thick. Sear each side over Top strip loin high heat. To tell when it’s time to flip it (using tongs), look for little sweat Average price: $7-$8 pound. beads on the top. Flip and sear again What it is: It’s wide at one end and tapered at the other. Often called New on the second side until crusty and then finish on a cooler part of the York strips. Cut from the strip loin or short loin section. It’s the porterhouse grill, about medium heat. without the tenderloin. Where to buy: Any grocery store. Buy Rib-eye (boneless) it sliced on the thick side with some Average price: $7-$12 a pound. fat running along the edge. What it is: This cut comes from the Taste/texture: Slightly chewy if over- same muscle as a New York strip, but cooked. Best cooked medium-rare to it comes from the front half of the medium. animal instead of the back. It should Best use: A good general-purpose be well-marbled.
doesn’t need a wet marinade to tenderize it. It’s a tender cut. Best tip: Loren recommends cooking a rib-eye to medium rare and over medium heat — about 350 degrees. Take it off the grill when the internal temperature of the steak reaches 130135 degrees. Then let it rest; the finished temperature should be 140-145 degrees. The exact timing depends on the thickness.
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puzzles for parents ACROSS 1. “_____ No. 5,” song 6. 19th letter of Greek alphabet 9. Not a far distance 13. Superman, e.g. 14. T-cell killer 15. Stan Lee’s fantastic Thing was definitely this 16. Dinero or cabbage 17. Flightless bird 18. Where you’ll find Aquaman 19. Captain _______ 21. Green _______ 23. “Much ___ About Nothing” 24. Marching performers 25. Masseuse’s office 28. Heart feeling 30. Last 35. Mister Fantastic could stretch and become this 37. Kick out 39. Treeless plain 40. Not to be broken 41. Administer 43. Inhabitant of Middle East 44. Batman was Bruce Wayne’s 46. ____ and kin 47. Famous Himalayan 48. Lynda Carter was full of it 50. It happens around a track 52. Bear’s hangout 53. Funeral wood pile 55. Wrath 57. What clairvoyants do 61. Blockbuster movie last summer 65. Giraffe-like African animal 66. Linear units (1/6 inch) in printing 68. Often the same button as play on a remote 69. Impulses or desires 70. Scooby-Doo and his gang rode in this 71. Plaudit and pomp 72. Tear down 73. Eastern time
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74. Used to go up
DOWN 1. Cheekbone 2. Obama to Harvard Law School, e.g. 3. Might Mouse’s family members 4. Yankee Yogi 5. Member of Iroquoian people living east of Lake Ontario 6. Short for Theodora 7. Heart to Cupid 8. Lobe at back of palate 9. What’s left after deductions 10. “At ____, soldier” 11. Affirm 12. Seacrest or Phillippe 15. “Messiah” composer 20. Tasty on a cold day 22. “___ day now”
24. Besmear 25. Scarecrow stuffing 26. Sao _____ 27. Make or break bet 29. Dr. Banner’s incredible alter ego 31. Kill, as in the dragon 32. Weighed 33. Related on mother’s side 34. Boy Wonder 36. Old paint hazard 38. Carrying bag 42. Belonging to them 45. Blood infection 49. Goes well with pastrami 51. Figures of speech 54. Famous for playing Superman 56. Perform in a play
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57. How many were Fantastic? 58. Used in soups and stews, especially down South 59. Opposite of riches 60. D’Artagnan’s weapon 61. Antonym of “is” 62. Donkey/horse hybrid 63. As soon as possible 64. Butterfly catchers 67. Mothers
Solutions on Page 56
Kids page
Maze
Connect the dots
Coloring Word search airplane bicycle blimp boat bus elevator escalator ferry jet moped motorcycle parachute raft rocket ship train tram truck
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calendar of events
Things to do June 1 Breast-feeding Basics Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Place offers a free class on breast-feeding from 7-9 p.m. in the hospital’s Duke Room. Call Sheri Gregg at 681BABY for information or to register.
Food allergy group Would you like to have COCOA — Caring for Children with food Allergies — in Asheville? A free group for parents of food allergic children is meeting at Earth Fare on Hendersonville Road in South Asheville. If you are interested, come to meetings at 6:45 p.m. the first Monday of the month or e-mail Kristie at cocoa_in_asheville@yahoo.com for details.
Starts June 1 Buncombe County Public Libraries summer pet food drive Help Meals on Wheels restock its pet food pantry. Bring unopened dog, cat or bird food to any Buncombe County Public library in June, July or August. For more information call the Swannanoa Library at 250-6486 or e-mail library@buncombecounty.org.
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Hendersonville Christian School Super Summer Camp Hendersonville Christian School will offer weekly sessions of camp for children ages 5-13. For more information, visit the school’s open house on May 12 or call 692-0556. The school is at 708 Old Spartanburg Highway in Hendersonville.
June 2 Montreat MOPS Come join other moms for fun, laughter and friendship. Group meets the first Tuesday of each month, 6:30-8 p.m., fourth floor of the Henry Building at Geneva Place in Montreat. Free child care is available. Call 669-8012, ext. 4001, to reserve a spot.
Skyland Library knitters
SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT
The Health Adventure’s new exhibit, “Arthur’s World,” opens June 5 and runs all summer.
Knitters of all skill levels are welcome from 6-8 p.m. at the Skyland Library, 260 Overlook Road. the labor and delivery process, relaxation, breathCall 250-6488 or e-mail skyland.library@buncom- ing patterns, birth options, positioning and combecounty.org. fort measures. Bring two pillows and a blanket. Two Tuesdays, June 2 and 9, 6:30-9 p.m. Cost is $90, or free with Medicaid. Registration required. At Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Childbirth 101 A two-session class for expectant parents covering Call 692-4600 for information.
June 2 and 9
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June 3 and 17 MOPS Mothers of Preschoolers meets at Biltmore Baptist Church in Arden on the first and third Wednesday mornings of each month, 9:30-11:30. For more information, call 687-1111.
calendar of events
LOOKING FOR A CAMP?
Starts June 3
WNC Parent published camp listings in its 2009 Camp Guide in March, as well as in April and May issues. To view these issues, visit WNCmom.com.
Preschool Play Dates First Baptist Church of Asheville, at 5 Oak St., offers play dates for preschoolers, 9 a.m.-noon Wednesdays through Aug. 12. Cost is $5. Call for the calendar, locations and more details. Registration is required to attend. Register at fbca.net. For more information contact, Bree Welmaker at 252-4781, ext. 318, or bwelmaker@fbca.net.
and the Emmy award-winning PBS show. A series of imaginative environments invite kids to join Arthur and his friends in the Library, at a Backyard Sleepover, in the Read Family Kitchen and in Mr. Ratburn’s Classroom. Arthur promotes reading, handling emotions that kids face every day, creative problem solving, being a good friend, appreciating what makes us all different and having fun. At The Health Adventure, 2 S. Pack Place, Asheville. For more information, visit thehealthadventure.org or call 254-6373.
June 4 Evening family story time Join a fun family evening story time for kids of all ages at 7 p.m. at Oakley Library, 749 Fairview Road. For more information, call 250-4754 or e-mail oakley.library@buncombecounty.org.
Moms with Multiples Group for moms with multiples meets 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at the Women’s Resource Center on Doctor’s Drive, behind Mission Hospitals. Meetings are an opportunity to share experiences and offer support in a social setting. For information, call 444-AMOM or visit ashevillemom.com.
June 5-14 SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT
Thomas the Tank Engine will be at Tweetsie Railroad from June 5-14. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will host Thomas on select days from July 24-Aug. 2.
Preschool Play Date
June 5
The Health Adventure’s Preschool Play Date series provides children ages 3-6 with a unique venue to play. It includes hands-on take-away activities led by an educator from the museum for children ages 3-6. Free for members or with museum admission. Runs 10:30-11:30 a.m. every first Thursday of the month. No registration in required. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.
Women’s Sacred Dream Circle Women’s Sacred Dream Circle meets near the time of the full moon, from 6-8:30 p.m. Sacred workshop for women to come together and reconnect with the great dreamer/spirit through dream work to connect with the mystery of life. Circle meets monthly. June circle will make dream
pillows. At Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Call April Morgan at 423-3370 or visit AshevilleWomensWellness.com. Cost $10 if able; no one turned away. Registration required.
Thomas the Tank Engine at Tweetsie Railroad Take a 25-minute ride on Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy storytelling, live music, games and more. Tickets are $22 for ages 3-12, $30 for adults. Ages 2 and younger are free. Visit tweetsierailroad.com for tickets and more information.
June 5-Sept. 6 ‘Arthur’ at The Health Adventure An exhibit based on Marc Brown’s popular books
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and distills these myriad styles into a rich and unique voice. The concert will be at Lazy K’s new open-air equestrian facility. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or a picnic blanket. Tickets are $20 and available at the door. For details, visit alandamy.com or lazykranchnc.com.
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June 5
Flat Rock ice cream social
Parents night out
Enjoy free ice cream, clowns, balloon animals, entertainment and more from noon-4 p.m. at Flat Rock Village Hall. Rain date is June 7. Call 6922929 for information.
Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church offers a parents night out, 6-8 p.m. the first Friday of the month. Open to community children, ages 2-11. Pizza dinner included. MHPC also offers a program for community youths ages 10 and older that runs consecutively with the Parents Night Out program. Donations accepted, but not required. For more information, call the Rev. Sean Maney at 2428402 or visit malvernhillspca.com.
Garden Science Investigation Explore the streams at the Botanical Gardens of Asheville for water quality, ph, oxygen levels and ability to support living organisms. Program is for children ages 5-11 and runs 9:30-11:30 a.m. Participants should wear the appropriate clothing and footwear for wading in the water. Cost is $7 per child. For information and to register, call 252-5190 or visit ashevillebotanicalgardens.org. At 151 W.T. Weaver Blvd., Asheville.
June 6 Clay Day and Guild Fair Clay Day has been a favorite event at the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Folk Art Center for more than 20 years. Members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild demonstrate throwing on the potter’s wheel, hand building and surface design on clay among other techniques. There will be activities for children including “make and take” raku firing. The second annual Guild Fair on the Parkway features the work of members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Runs 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Folk Art Center, Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For more information, visit craftguild.org.
Haywood County Public Library summer reading kickoff
SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT
Eliada Home benefit concert
Keowee Chamber Music is bringing its music to children in two Keowee for Kids performances on June 6 at The Hop on Merrimon Avenue in North Asheville.
Lazy K Ranch in Barnardsville hosts a concert to benefit the therapeutic horse program at Eliada Home for Children. Grammy-winning artist Al Petteway and Amy White will perform at 7 p.m.
They are an acoustic music duo that draws inspiration from musical traditions across the globe
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Begin your summer reading in an entertaining way, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Waynesville Library, 678 S. Haywood St. Mountain Circus Arts will be on hand. Watch clowns, jugglers and fire eaters. Enjoy free popcorn and snow-cones, while they last. For more information, call 452-5169 or visit haywoodlibrary.org.
Keowee for Kids: Live chamber music at The Hop Keowee Chamber Music celebrates its ninthannual festival and offers the community chamber music for children. Join flutist Kate Steinbeck,
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guitarist Amy Brucksch and cellist Philip von Maltzahn as they play music from around the world in two shows, at noon and 2 p.m., at The Hop Ice Cream Parlor, 507 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. For information, visit keoweechambermusic.org.
June 6 and 13 Belly casting workshop Create a plaster belly cast of your pregnant belly, from 1-4 p.m. June 6. Bring your belly cast from the workshop or one you made at home and decorate it lavishly from 1-4 p.m. June 13. Cost for each workshop is $75, with $15 materials fee for decorating workshop. If you attend both workshops, the cost is discounted to $125. At the Women’s Wellness and Education Center 24 Arlington St., Asheville. For more information or to register, visit AshevilleWomensWellness.com or call Julie at 216-2123.
June 7 Children’s Health and Harmony Festival Celebrate everything good for children. Enjoy a performance by Billy Jonas, participate in the Asheville Family Olympics, visit more than 70 booths and activity areas. From 11 a.m.-7 p.m., the festival is a day full of fun while educating, empowering and enlightening families. At Martin Luther King Jr. Park, off Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Asheville. For more information, call 252-8149 or visit namasteasheville.com.
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June 8 La Leche League Monday mornings La Leche League’s Monday group meets at 10 a.m. the second Monday of the month at First Congregational Church on Oak Street. Pregnant moms, babies and toddlers are welcome. For information, contact a leader: Susan 628-4438, Falan, 683-1999, or Tamara 505-1379.
Starts June 8 Kid Quest day camp Kids Quest Summer Day Camp at First Baptist Church of Asheville is for rising first-graders through 12-year-olds and runs through Aug. 14. Children can attend just one week or all 10. It is 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Cost is $145 per week with a $50 registration fee. Activities include swimming, field trips, team sports, basketball, soccer, cheerleading, Bible Crazy Concoctions and science experiments, art, music, cooking, gardening, hiking and more. For more information or to receive a registration packet, contact Coral Childrey at 252-4781, ext. 326, or cchildrey@fbca.net, or fbca.net.
June 8 and 11 Asheville Area Music Together free class Try a class with Asheville Area Music Together. To reserve a space, contact Kari at karirich-
mond@charter.net or 545-0990. Visit AshevilleAreaMT.com or musictogether.com for more information. ◆ June 8: 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Reuter Family YMCA, 3 Town Square Blvd., Asheville. ◆ June 11: 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. in West Asheville.
June 9 Seminar: ‘Intervention for Underachieving Students’ Focus Centers of Asheville will sponsor a onenight seminar for parents of children who have been unable to achieve their full potential in the school setting. Educational specialist Jackie Williams will describe how biofeedback serves as a research-supported educational intervention for inattentiveness, distractibility, disorganization, test anxiety, low motivation, listening and memory concerns, learning differences, self-control of behavior and a variety of other challenges that interfere with academic success. At 7 p.m. Call 281-2299, ext. 2, to register and get directions.
Mom2Mom group St. Paul’s Church’s Mom2Mom group, a monthly group serving moms of any age children, meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Rosscraggon Business Park, 32 Rosscraggon Road, Building B, Skyland. Refreshments and child care will be provided. Contact Beth at 388-3598 for more information and directions.
AREA PUBLIC POOLS Asheville City pools open June 13. Cost to swim is $3 per person, with passes available. Weekday pool hours vary, but all pools are open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays and 1-6 p.m. Sundays. For more information, call 259-8500. Swim lessons City pools will offer American Red Cross swim lessons. Register at the pool. Junior Lifeguard training is also offered for kids ages 11-14. Buncombe County Pools are open weekends only until June 10. Cost to swim is $3 per person, with passes available. Pool hours are noon-5:45 p.m. Monday-Friday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-6:45 p.m. Saturday and 1-6:45 p.m. Sunday. For more information, contact Teri Gentile at 684-5072 or teri.gentile@buncombecounty.org. Swim lessons All county pools will offer two swim lesson sessions. Lessons run Monday-Thursday for two weeks and are divided into five levels of swim experience. Cost is $25 per session. Children ages 5 and older swim 11-11:45 a.m.; ages 3-4 swim 11-11:30 a.m. Swimmers at levels 1, 2 and 3 can take evening lessons, from 6-6:45. ◆ Session one: Sign up begins noon June 15. Lessons June 22-July 2. ◆ Session two: Sign up begins noon July 13. Lessons July 20-30. Swim for free Pools will host Super Sunday Specials this summer. Specials for June include: ◆ June 7: All county residents admitted free between 1-2 p.m. with proof of residency. ◆ June 14: All fathers admitted free between 1-2 p.m. ◆ June 21: All children ages 3-12 admitted free between 1-2 p.m. ◆ June 28: All grandparents admitted free between 1-2 p.m.
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June 10 Holistic Parenting Forum The Holistic Parenting Forum is a free group that meets monthly to provide an opportunity for a diverse community of parents committed to natural living to gather. The group provides support, education and resources. All meetings take place on the second Wednesday of every month at Earth Fare in West Asheville from 6-8 p.m. Children are welcome. For more information, call 230-4850 or e-mail shantisunshine@gmail.com
La Leche League—Hendersonville La Leche League of Hendersonville offers information and support for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hendersonville, 2021 Kanuga Road. Babies and toddlers are welcome. For more information, contact a leader: Andrea 676-6047, Katie 808-1490, or MC 693-9899.
day of school with its first concert of the summer with musician Jeff Robbins, of Black Mountain. School lets out at 10:30 a.m. and Jeff begins singing at 11 a.m. the auditorium of the Waynesville Library. He will perform at 2 p.m. at the Canton Library. Seating is limited to 100 so be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before our scheduled start times. For more information, call 452-5169 or visit haywoodlibrary.org.
Knitty Gritty Night A casual knitting group for knitters of all skill levels at the East Asheville Library meets at 6:30 p .m. the second Thursday of the month. The library is at 902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738 or e-mail eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org for more information.
Starts June 11 Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club
All levels welcome. Paper is available at the museum store or bring your own. Cost is museum admission. From 4-5 p.m. the second Wednesday at The Health Adventure, 2 S. Pack Place. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.
The Cradle of Forestry offers a weekly summer nature program in which kids help Woodsy Owl in his conservation mission to “lend a hand, care for the land!” The program is for children ages 4-7 with a variety of outdoor-oriented activities that will explore a forest-related theme. Meets 10:30 a.m.-noon Thursdays through Aug. 6, rain or shine. Closed-toe shoes recommended. Cost is $4 per child per program. Accompanying adults receive half-price admission ($2.50). Reservations requested. Call 877-3130 or visit cradleofforestry.com for information.
June 11
June 13
Children’s concert
Catnip Cuddlies
Origami Folding Frenzy
Haywood County Public Library celebrates the last
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Make a toy for a shelter cat at 2 p.m. at Enka-
June 14
Candler Library, 1404 Sandhill Road. Call 2504758 or e-mail enka.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
Flag Day Established in 1916, it celebrates the adoption of the U.S. flag, but it is not a national holiday.
Flag Day celebration
Father’s Day craft workshop
Mark Flag Day at Historic Johnson Farm with a family event including a parade of decorated bikes, wagons and strollers, plus singing of patriotic songs. Starts at 11 a.m. Free. The farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. For information, call 891-6585 or visit historicjohnsonfarm.org.
Is your dad a superhero? Make a personalized comic book for his Father’s Day gift at 1 p.m. at Spellbound Children’s Bookshop. All materials provided. Free, but please call ahead. Ages 5 and older. At 19 Wall Street. Call 232-2228 or visit spellboundchildrensbookshop.com for information.
Twilight Firefly Tour A sure sign of summertime is the blinking of fireflies or what some like to call lightning bugs. Enjoy a magical evening in the forest 7:30-9:30 p.m. and learn about the natural history of these fascinating insects. Park and meet at the Pink Beds Picnic Area located next to the Cradle of Forestry on U.S. 276. The firefly walk will be lead by a ranger from the Cradle of Forestry. The group will meet and discuss the life cycle of a firefly before taking an easy, slow paced walk to look for them near the forests’ edge along the Pink Beds Trail. Children will also have the opportunity to make a special firefly craft. Bring a flashlight. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for youths, Interagency Passport holders and Golden Passport holders.
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June 15 Grandparent class Park Ridge Hospital offers a class that covers how grandparents can help, how childbirth has changed, gift ideas, safety and a tour or the OB unit. At 7 p.m. in the Duke Room of the hospital, at 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. Call 681BABY for information or to register.
La Leche League Monday evenings La Leche League meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday at Awakening Heart on Merrimon Avenue.
calendar of events Pregnant moms, babies and toddlers welcome. For information, contact a leader: Jen at 7133707 or Yvette at 254-5591.
Mommy and Me luncheon The Baby Place at Park Ridge Hospital in Hendersonville welcomes new moms to its Mommy and Me luncheon, noon-1 p.m. the third Monday of each month. Bring your new baby, visit with other new moms and enjoy a short speaker. This luncheon is in the hospital’s Private Dining Room, ground floor by the café, and will take place on the third Monday of each month. Please call 681-2229 to RSVP.
CMA.USA karate dojo, 412 Merrimon Ave. Camp runs through Aug. 14. Each week has a different martial arts theme. Campers will learn an art’s history and techniques, as well as knowing when they can use their skills and how to use them to better themselves and their community. Activities also include soccer, basketball, swimming, dodge ball, tumbling and tennis. Cost is $120 per week or $30 per day. For information, call 251-5245. Register by June 8 for 15 percent discount.
through Aug. 7. Lessons run 30 or 45 minutes and cost $21-$31.50, depending on program and member status. The center will also offer private swimming lessons for $10 for 30 minutes or $19 for an hour. For information or to register, call 456-2030 or e-mail recaquatics@ townofwaynesville.org.
Historic Johnson Farm programs
Bounceville USA day camp
Historic Johnson Farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. For information, visit historicjohnsonfarm.org. ◆ Grand and Me is an opportunity for parents, guardians and/or grandparents to bond with children while receiving a fun, hands-on history Summer reading kick-off lesson. Try out the old-time joggling board, an Henderson County Public Libraries kicks off its old-fashioned chalk board, sand toys and a summer reading program with a visit from Ted E. Tourist, at 2 p.m. at the Hendersonville Library. For washing station. Also included will be a meet and greet the animals session at the barn. The cost is more information, visit henderson.lib.nc.us. $5 for adults and a $1 charge for bags of animal feed. Picnic tables are available on the grounds if visitors want to pack and bring a lunch. ◆ Weekday Summer Fun includes tours of the ASI camps 1880s farmhouse and grounds and visit with Acceleration Sports Institute will offer half-day summer camps weekly for children ages 4-9 from animals. Tours are at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Cost is $5 for adults, $3 for June 15-Aug. 17. Camps will have a weekly theme, daily snacks and a lot of active programs. students K-12 and preschoolers are free. Visitors can experience a step into the past and experiCamps run 8 a.m.-noon, with 7:30 a.m. early arrival available. Call Acceleration Sports Institute, ence life in days before electricity and the days which is at 14 Legend Drive, Arden, at 687-7999 when chamber pots were the status quo. for information or to register. Swim lessons at Waynesville
Starts June 15
Everyday Warriors martial arts camp Martial arts camp for children ages 6-14 at
Recreation Center Waynesville Parks and Recreation will offer swimming lessons at beginner and intermediate levels, running Monday-Friday for two consecutive weeks
June 15-19 Bounceville USA offers half-day camp from 9 a.m.-noon Monday-Friday. Activities include 90 minutes of bounce time, games and crafts. For ages 3 and older. Cost is $75. Call 696-4949 or visit bouncevilleusa.com for reservation. Bounceville is at 614 Market St., Hendersonville.
Weaving Week at Historic Johnson Farm Historic Johnson Farm offers a summer day camp for kids ages 9-11. Camp runs 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and features dyeing, wool carding, drop spindle, visiting and petting the farm sheep, tapestry weaving, slentra braiding, both harness and inkle looms, and paper weaving. Registration is required by June 8. Cost is $75. For more information, call 891-6585 or visit historicjohnsonfarm.org. The farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville.
June 15-26 Arts camp Children’s Art in the Mountains Program will offer two weeks of arts camp for children ages 4-13 at Marshall High Studios. Camp rums 9 a.m.-noon and costs $60 per child, which includes a snack.
To receive a brochure or for more information contact artscamp@wildblue.net or call Esther Moriarty at 649-3491.
June 16 All That Jazz With Howard Hanger at 6 p.m. at West Asheville Library. Free ticket required. Tickets available June 2. The library is at 942 Haywood Road. Call 250-4750 or e-mail westasheville.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
Bedtime story time Wind down your evening with story time at 6:30 p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482 or e-mail weaverville.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
Breast-feeding class Learn the art of breast-feeding. Class covers breast-feeding basics to help give moms a good start. From 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600. Class is free; registration is not required.
Open house Asheville Center for Health Excellence, Asheville Pilates and Envision Eyecare will host an open house from 5-7:30 p.m. Come pamper and learn how to better take care of yourself. Enjoy refreshments and receive a complementary eye health screening, 15 minute chair massage, chiropractic/health coach evaluation and a personalized Pilates demo. Call 254-6757.
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share African music, stories and fun with shows at 10 and 11:30 a.m. at the Smith-McDowell House, 283 Victoria Road on the campus of AshevilleBuncombe Technical Community College. For information, call 250-4720.
June 17
Thursday Postpartum Lodge
Hanger Hall School for Girls pool party Kids ages 5-12 can learn more about weaving at 2 p.m. at North Asheville Library, 1030 Merrimon Ave. Limited to 30 children. Please call 2504752 to register.
Lodges are for new mothers and their babies 1 year or younger. Lodges include healing and healthy organic meal, massage for the mothers by professional massage therapist, group infant massage class, herbal teas, and stress management training for new moms. Runs 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost is $25-40 sliding fee. All welcome regardless of ability to pay. Call Sarah Gralnick at 337-8630 for information, or visit AshevilleWomensWellness.com.
Starts June 17
June 20
Call 258-3600 or visit hangerhall.org for details.
Wonderful Weaving Workshop
Empowered Birthing childbirth education classes Four interactive classes on Wednesday evenings focus on natural childbirth, positions for comfort, and hands-on massage techniques for labor. VBACs welcome. Classes are at the Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Cost is $175 for the series taught by Laura Beagle, LMBT, and Trish Beckman, CNM. Class runs 6-9 p.m. May 6-27. For information or registration call 231-9227.
June 18 Summer Library Fest at Smith-McDowell House Kick off Buncombe County Public Libraries’ summer reading program. Free. The Healing Force will
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Parks and Recreation. For more information or to register, contact Dory Jones at 684-9201 or dory@totsontoes.com or visit TotsOnToes.com.
June 21 Father’s Day For ideas on what to do together with Dad, or what to get him for Father’s Day, see stories starting on Page 32.
June 22 Create a Pork and Bean Guitar Black Mountain Library, at 105 Dougherty St., hosts this craft lesson for children ages 6 and older. Registration requested. Call 250-4756.
Starts June 22
Creative Caring Day Make crafts for kids at Mission Hospital at East Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call 2504738 or e-mail eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org for more information.
Team E.C.C.O. camps WNC PARENT PHOTO
The Healing Force will help Buncombe County Public Libraries kick off its summer readChildren can make crafts at 11 a.m. at Swannano- ing program on June 18 at Smith-McDowell a Library, 101 W. Charleston St. Call 250-6486 or House Museum.
Summer Fun Crafts in the Sun
e-mail swannanoa.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
June 20-July 18 Tots on Toes summer dance workshop Introduce your child to the art of dance with Tots on Toes Summer workshop. Classes on four
Saturdays at Stoney Mountain Activity Center in Henderson County. Mommy & Me preschool class (ages 2-3), 10-10:30 a.m. Preschool ballet and creative movement (age 3), 10:30-11:15 a.m. Preschool ballet and creative movement (age 4), 11:15 a.m.-noon. Elementary grades ballet and tap, noon-12:45 p.m. Cost is $35 for the entire workshop. In partnership with Henderson County
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Team E.C.C.O. Ed-venture Center offers weeklong Summer Splash camps, with themes like Shark Week, Reef Time and more. Learn about aquatic life, art and science. Ages vary by week but camps start as young as age 7. Prices start at $55 per session. For more information, visit team-ecco.com or call 692-3549.
June 22-26 Hands-On History camp Smith-McDowell House Museum offers the first of two Hands-On History camps. This week offers themes including Victorian Life, the Civil War, Pioneer Schools, Appalachian Heritage and Art History. Camp runs 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Campers
calendar of events will become history detectives, dig like an archaeologist, make heritage crafts, go on an architectural treasure hunt, and play historic games as they learn about a variety of historical themes. Each day’s activities include educational programs, games, crafts and more. Space is limited and registration is required. Cost is $100 for members and $120 for nonmembers. Contact the museum at 253-9231 or education@wnchistory.org for more information or for a registration form.
June 22-27 Coldwater Conservation and Fly-Fishing Youth Camp North Carolina Trout Unlimited offers a camp for boys and girls ages 13-15 at Lake Logan in Canton with indoor and outdoor classes in entomology, geology, hydrology, herpetology, watershed issues and solutions and more. Includes a field trip to Davidson River with a tour of the fish hatchery. Campers will help stock nearby the West Fork of the Pigeon River with trout and are introduced to various species and trout habitat. Cost is $495. Contact Dick Heald at rdbjheald@bellsouth.net or call 654-8725. For more information, visit nctu.org, and click on “Rivercourse.”
June 23 ‘A-Camping We Will Go’ story time Enjoy a family night story time at 6:30 p.m. at
Enka-Candler Library, 1404 Sandhill Road. Call 250-4758 or e-mail enka.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
BirthNetwork of WNC BirthNetwork of WNC is a nonprofit, grass-roots movement based on the belief that birth can profoundly affect physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The group meets 7-8 p.m. the fourth Tuesday at the Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, 1800 Four Seasons Blvd, Hendersonville. This month’s topic is “Nutrition in Pregnancy” with Dr. Victoria Moreno. For information, e-mail birthnetworkofwnc@gmail.com or visit birthnetwork.org.
Black Mountain Library Knitters The Black Mountain Library Knitters will meet 7 p.m. Knitters of all skill levels are welcome. The library is at 105 Dougherty St. Call 250-4756 for information.
Pardee parenting classes Classes at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600 for information. Classes are free. Registration is not required. ◆ Infant care class: Learn the basics of infant care, 6:30-8 p.m. ◆ Prime-time with a pediatrician: Learn from a local pediatrician what to expect with a newborn in your home, 8-9 p.m.
Starts June 23 Hands On! summer camps Hands On! A Child’s Gallery in Hendersonville offers four camps. The museum is at 318 N. Main St. For details on each camp, call 697-8333 or
visit handsonwnc.org. Cost starts at $25 per child, depending on program and member status. ◆ Aerospace Camp: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. June 23-26. For ages 7-12. ◆ Comedy Camp: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 13-17. For ages 6-12. ◆ Crime Scene Investigation Camp: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. July 28-31. For ages 9-13. ◆ Craft Sampler Camp: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Aug. 11-14. For ages 6-9 (must have completed first grade).
June 23-25 Children’s Art Workshop Join artist Carolyn Serrano at Historic Johnson Farm for a workshop focusing on drawing skills with pencil and colored pencils. Runs 10-11:30 a.m. Limited to 12 students. Cost is $40. For rising third- to fifth-graders. Call 891-6585 to register. The farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville.
June 24 Secret Agent 23 Skidoo performs Come sing and dance along to “kid-hop” artist Secret Agent 23 Skidoo and Friends at Haywood County Public Libraries. A nationally acclaimed artist, 23 Skidoo offers funky entertain-
ment for the whole family. Performances at 11 a.m. at Waynesville Library, 678 S. Haywood St., and 2 p.m. at Canton Library, 11 Pennsylvania Ave. For more information, call 452-5169 or visit haywoodlibrary.org. (See July 2 for Buncombe County Library appearances.)
Face Paint Fiesta At 10 a.m. at East Asheville/Oakley Library, 749 Fairview Road. Call 250-4754 or e-mail oakley.library@buncombecounty.org for more information.
Grow Your Garden, Grow Your Mind Bring your own container and make a mini-garden at East Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738 or e-mail eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org for more information.
Make Aliens, Monsters, Dolls and Animals Bring a sock to make a sock puppet at 2 p.m. at North Asheville Library, 1030 Merrimon Ave. For ages 5 and older. Limited to 30 children. Please call 250-4752 to register.
June 25 Balloon Lady The Balloon Lady visits at 2:30 p.m. at South Buncombe/Skyland Library, 760 Overlook Road. Call 2506488 or e-mail skyland. library@buncombecounty.org.
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calendar of events
June 27
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Make Your Mark! Community Mural
Get Creative workshop Get creative with T-shirts at 11 a.m. at Leicester Library, 1561 Alexander Road. Call 250-6480 or e-mail leicester.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
Hobey Ford’s Golden Rod Puppets Enjoy an afternoon of puppetry at 2:30 and 4 p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482 or e-mail weaverville.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
‘Tips and Tools for Parenting Your ADD/ADHD Child’ A free seminar designed for parenting ADD/ADHD children 8 and older. From 6:30-8 p.m. at Asheville Pediatric Associates, 2 Medical Park Drive, Suite 1000. Space limited; registration required. Call 254-5326, ext. 2177, for more information. The seminar will be followed by a four-session class in July on Parenting Your ADD/ADHD Child. Rudy Rodriguez, LCSW is a child, adolescent and adult therapist at Asheville Pediatric Associates.
June 26-28 Dora and Diego at Tweetsie Railroad Meet Dora the Explorer and Diego at Tweetsie Railroad, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, visit tweetsierailroad.com.
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19 Wall St. Call 232-2228 or visit spellbound childrensbookshop.com for more information.
June 29
Help make a mural at East Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738 or e-mail eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org for more information.
Gardening for Kids Black Mountain Library hosts this lesson for children ages 5 and older. Registration requested. Call 250-4756. The library is at 105 Dougherty St.
Nectar Collector Day Discover the secret lives of butterflies. The Beauty of Butterflies is an enclosed, walk-through exhibit at the WNC Nature Center that is home to several native species and the plants they need to survive. Children can get their face painted, make buggy crafts and play games. Adults can learn about attracting butterflies to their gardens. Runs 10 a.m.-4p.m. Exhibit closes Sept. 2. Regular admission rates apply. At 75 Gashes Creek Road. For more information, call 298-5600 or visit wildwnc.org.
Fun with Drawing, Lettering and Card Making Children ages 6 and older can get crafty at this workshop at 2 p.m. at North Asheville Library, 1030 Merrimon Ave. Limited to 50 children. Call 250-4752 to register.
June 29-July 2 Tots on Toes summer dance camp
June 27-28 Family Farm Tour Visit up to 38 farms and gardens across six counties on the tour organized by Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project. A variety of vegetables, fruits, trout, beef, pork, lamb, eggs, cheeses, herbs, honey and more will be available for sample and purchase, along with products like yarn, soap and crafts. Watch animals like llamas, bison and bunnies. See traditional skills demonstrated. Learn about ideas for renewable energy. Purchase a button for admission for $20 plus $2 shipping at familyfarmtour.org or at participating stores and restaurants or at farms the day of the tour for $25. One button admits a car. Visit only
PHOTO BY JOHN FLETCHER
WNC Nature Center will host Nectar Collector Day on June 27. one farm for $10 payable on-site. For information, visit familyfarmtour.org.
June 28 Story time Spellbound Children’s Bookshop offers stories and activities about dogs, featuring the lovable puppy Biscuit at 1 p.m. For children ages 3-6 only. No registration required. Free. The shop is at
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Camp activities include ballet and tap classes, crafts, games and snacks for ages 5-12. Runs 2-5 p.m. For ages 5-12 years. Cost is $65. Tots on Toes is a partnership with Henderson County Parks and Recreation. For more information and to register contact Dory Jones at 684-9201 or dory@totsontoes.com and visit TotsOnToes.com.
June 30 T-shirt workshop Bring a cotton T-shirt or a bookbag to silkscreen at 1:30 p.m. at West Asheville Library, 942 Haywood Road. For all ages. Call 250-4750 or e-mail
calendar of events westasheville.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
‘Secret Life of the Mitochondria’ Come and learn about the little known secret of how to give your mitochondria a boost, which may improve exercise performance, appetite control, reduce fat, increase muscle mass, and improve insulin sensitivity. Sponsored by Asheville Center for Health Excellence and presented by Dr. Russel Sher. At 7 p.m. at the Earth Fare community room, 66 Westgate Parkway. RSVP to 253-1727. Visit ashevillehealthcoach.com
lers is 11-11:45 a.m.; forum is noon-1 p.m. On Tuesdays, meetings are at Reuter Family YMCA in the Mission Wellness Resource Center Room. Mommy/baby yoga for pre-crawlers is at 10:30 a.m.; guest speaker/open discussion is at 11:30; walk and talk starts at 12:45 p.m. Please call 213-8098 or e-mail shantisunshine@gmail.com to register.
Toddler Fun
July 2
Toddler Fun is a free group that provides an opportunity for parents to have some structured fun with their children ages 1-3 including 45 minutes of songs, stories, finger-plays, parachute play and more. At 10 a.m. Mondays at the new Woodfin YMCA and 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Reuter Family YMCA. To register, call 213-8098 or e-mail shantisunshine@gmail.com.
American Tall Tales
Asheville Area Music Together
Family fun at 7 p.m. at East Asheville/Oakley Library, 749 Fairview Road. Call 250-4754 or e-mail oakley.library@buncombecounty.org for more information.
Balloon Fairy Gets Creative Watch the Balloon Fairy work wonders with balloons at 11 a.m. at Leicester Library, 1561 Alexander Road. Call 250-6480 or e-mail leicester.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
Secret Agent 23-Skidoo Be entertained with hip-hop for kids. Want a preview? Visit secretagent23skidoo.com. ◆ 11 a.m. at East Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738 or e-mail eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org for more information. ◆ 3 p.m. at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482 or e-mail weaverville.library@buncombecounty.org for information.
July 24-28, 30-31 and Aug. 1-2
Registration is now open for Music Together, an internationally recognized early childhood music program for children age 0-5 and the adults who love them. Each class is a playful family experience full of new and traditional songs and chants. Session begins June 15. Free demo classes available. Contact Kari Richmond at karirichmond@charter.net or 545-0990 or visit AshevilleAreaMT.com or musictogether.com
Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Place childbirth classes Seven-week session of classes offered 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays in the Duke Room at Park Ridge Hospital, 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. Cost is $25 total for the series. Start at any point in the class cycle. Please call Sheri Gregg at 6812229 for information or to register.
Asheville Youth Cycling
will happen as the family prepares for the birth of the new baby. Each child will see and hold lifelike models that show how a baby grows and develops, make a kite mobile for the new baby’s room, receive an activity/coloring book and tour the Mother/Baby Unit at Mission Hospital to see where mom and baby will stay. Program runs 4-5 p.m. Mondays at Mission Hospital. To register, call 254-6373, ext. 329. Visit thehealthadventure.com and click on the “Programs” tab.
Suzuki violin lessons Ongoing enrollment available in the private Suzuki violin studio for students ages 3 through adult, for beginners through advanced-intermediate levels. Call Holly Thistle at 545-8673 for information about the violin program or the Suzuki method.
Women’s Wellness and Education Center classes All classes are at the Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Call 505-7505 or visit ashevillewomenswellness.com. ◆ Mamatime mother baby classes: Mamatime is a facilitated group of 10 moms and 10 babies who meet weekly for support, community, and to develop internal Mama-Wisdom together. Topics explored include feeding issues, sleeping issues, returning to intimacy and more. This group is open to all. Cost $100-150 sliding fee. New group forming in June. Call Shelley Tom at 582-4653 to register. ◆ Aquanatal water exercise class for pregnant women: Meet at the Women’s Wellness and Education Center at 10:30 a.m. to carpool to Warren Wilson College pool. Cost $10 per class. Contact Sarah Gralnick at 337-8630. ◆ Prenatal, slow flow, fertility and serenity yoga classes are available for $12 per class or
five classes for $50. Times and instructors vary. ◆ Bring your baby and breast-feeding questions and difficulties to the free drop-in Baby N Me Breast-feeding Circle 10:30 a.m.-noon Tuesdays with Holly Mason.
Kids night out The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa offers a kids night out each Friday and Saturday, 6-10 p.m. Advance registration required two days prior. Drop-off is at hotel’s Sport Complex. Activities offered are swimming, pingpong, games, tennis, movies and more. Cost is $35 per child, and siblings receive $10 discount. For reservations, call 252-2711, ext 1046.
Swimming lessons Learn to swim at the YWCA of Asheville. Red Cross certified swim lessons are now in session and can be joined at any point in the session. Call 2547206, ext. 110, for more information or sign up at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave. Visit ywcaofasheville.org.
Asheville Hiking Moms Join a group of moms that takes babies and kids hiking in Asheville and surrounding areas. Most hikes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more information e-mail avlhikingmoms@gmail.com.
Spanish immersion program Kids will learn Spanish naturally in small, ageappropriate classes through fun experiences in classes taught by professional native speakers. Enrollment is year-round in classes for children 3-12 with discounts for siblings. Please contact Claudia McMahan at 681-0843 or Beatriz Riascos-Socarras at 687-9620 or e-mail mm_spanish@hotmail.com.
Asheville Youth Cycling practices from 4:30-6 p.m. Thursdays at Carrier Park in Asheville. The group teaches cycling and racing basics and has a fleet of loaner fixed-gear bikes for kids to ride. For more information, contact Lesli Meadows at lesli@velosportsperformancecenter.com.
Thomas the Tank Engine at Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Preschool classes Take a 25-minute ride on Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy storytelling, live music, games and more. Tickets are $18 for ages 2 and older. Visit gsmr.com for tickets and more information.
Ongoing Mommy and Me for Babies This is a free group that meets weekly in two locations to provide an opportunity for new parents to gather. On Mondays, meet at the new Woodfin YMCA. Mommy/baby yoga for pre-craw-
Merrimon Avenue Baptist Church Preschool is now accepting enrollment for preschool classes for children ages 1 to pre-kindergarten. Classes are 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays. Cost is $15/day. A structured pre-kindergarten class focusing on kindergarten readiness is available. Call Sara Calloway at 252-2768, ext. 315, or e-mail scalloway@mabaptist.org for more information.
‘My Mom Is Having a Baby’ A free program to help children ages 3-8 understand, accept and anticipate the changes that
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Answers to puzzles on Page 44
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