Issue 012 March 2012 Dashboards and Saddlebags the Destination Magazine™

The Destination Magazine

Dashboards Saddlebags and

March 2012

FEATURES

FREE

Destination Calendar Film Junkies Guide to North Carolina 2012 North Carolina Azalea Festival Street Fair Madison – Captivated April Fool’s Trail Days 3rd Annual Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention Dupont Forrest

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com

Flyers Brochures Banners Posters Social Networking Events Photography Menus

LZ M

Mar k

et ing

704-609-2014

For the start up or established business that needs a Helping Hand Lisa Hedrick

PO 1501 • DaviDsOn, nC 28036 Lisa@PhOtODuDe.net

PhotodudeART.com

Events•Portrait•Commercial•Gicleé Reproduction Showing @ Chameleon Studio mooresville - Lake Norman Cottage davidson - Just Baked Cupcakes cornelius

• Canvas prints from your photos • Color EnhanCEmEnt • photo rEtouChing • 24x36-24x24-16x24 Canvas prints Davidson NC 336-510-2744 • zak@Mac.com

CONTEMPORARY BARBERSHOP AND NEIGHBORHOOD PUB

40 Beers • 7 Big Screens • 3 Chairs Not Your Grandfather’s Barbershop

Great HAIRCUTS And HOT LATHER SHAVES In Our Unique Environment. Neighborhood Pub For Guys And Gals. Great Pub Games And The Areas Best Juke Box.

Pub Open 7 Days a Week Until 1am or Later

Celebrate

St. Patrick’s Day Where Irish Eyes Are Always Smiling!

THERE IS ALWAYS A GOOD REASON TO STOP BY...

A GUEST BARTENDER For Local Charities And LIVE MUSIC Every Tuesday Evening From 7:00 Midnight TRIVIA HOSTED LIVE Every Wednesday Night From 8pm-10pm LIVE MUSIC FRIDAY Nights From 9:30 - 1:00am BEER OR WINE SPECIALS Every Night Of The Week COOL PUB GAMES like Ski-Ball, Shuffleboard, Corn Hole & More!

Feeling Lucky?

Ask to dip into our pot of gold and win a prize instantly!

PRIZES VALUED UP TO $25

TheKiltedBuffalo.com Birkdale Village - Huntersville (between Gap & American Eagle)

704.892.7571

12 We know we are

Dashboards # Saddlebags The Destination Magazine and

on to something!

M

arch is our twelfth issue of Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine! We are thankful for the support and encouragement we have received from our readers and advertisers.

Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine is the publication all about enjoyment. Getting away, going to somewhere new, trying something different. We are the only magazine specifically for the MotoTourist. Generally, a MotoTourist is an adventurer.

Have you ever met an adventurer that was not a happy person? I ask because I know that happy people tend to spend more money. So if you own a business that has a product or service that a MotoTourist would benefit from... for heavens sake you need to be in Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine!

Yes, I just said happy people read Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine, and our readers spend more! Question: Where did you pick up your copy of Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine?

S e e , s h o u l d n’t y o u u s e Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine as your marketing tool?

4

Look at the quality companies that choose to use Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine as their marketing tool. I’m sure you recognize most of the advertisers in the magazine, why?

Because they advertise! They are successful household names in part by staying in front of their client in print media and not relying solely on word of mouth or on the quality of their service or product.

Be seen, be first on the mind of your clients, and be remembered!

For as little as $100 you can be in the ONLY destination magazine for MotoTourists.

Lisa & Andy Publishers Try your smart phone on this QR

code and go directly to our web site.

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

Features in March 2012

Page 14

Page 16

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

Page 20

Produced by: Photodude.net LLC Contributing Writers: Lisa Hedrick, Wally Wersching, Connie Nelson, Floyd Harris, Bob Scott Contributing Photographers: Lisa Hedrick, Wally Wersching

Contents

Page 24

Destinations 6 Film Junkies Guide to North Carolina

12

2012 North Carolina Azalea Festival Street Fair

14

Madison – Captivated

16

April Fool’s Trail Days A Celebration of the Appalachian Trail

20

3rd Annual Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention Weekend

22

Dupont Forrest

24

The list of events in this publication is compiled from various sources dates & times are tentative & subject to change. Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine is published by Photodude.net LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.DashboardsandSaddlebags.com Published by Andy Jay. ©2012 All rights reserved. Photodude.net LLC Publisher, Agents & Advertisers do not necessarily condone any activities or advertisement listed in this magazine. The Publisher and its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and sponsors are not responsible for any loss or damage which might be associated with patronage of any party named in this publication, and is not responsible for any Act of God such as inclement weather, fire, flood, natural or man-made disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

5

Destinations More Events and Interactive Maps at DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 7th Annual Civil War Battle and Living History Weekend Sat, March 3, 10am – Sun, March 4, 5pm Historic Village of Rockford Dobson, NC 27017 The Historic Village of Rockford and the 7th North Carolina Cavalry along with the 21st Infantry, NC 30th and the NC 28th re enactors invite you to step back in time and experience the life of a civil war soldier at the 6th Annual Battle in Rockford Reenactment. Battle Schedule: Saturday: 10:00 and 2:00 Sunday: 10:30 Outdoor Church Service with the Confederates held at the Rockford Amphitheater. Sunday: 1:00 These men put a lot of effort and time into recreating history for us all to enjoy and share in. Event is FREE and open to everyone. Food and drink will be available on the grounds. www.rockfordgeneralstore.com Professor Brower’s “Andy Griffith Show” Lectures Thu, March 8, 2pm Andy Griffith Museum Mount Airy, NC 27030 The Andy Griffith Museum will host a series of lectures by Neal Brower in the museum’s lower level, 218 Rockford Street, Mount Airy. In his lectures, Brower focuses on one episode of “The Andy Griffith Show.” Through interviews with writers, directors, producers, actors, and others associated with the show, Brower offers insights into the script-writing, production, photography, casting, and musical scoring. Lectures will be on March 8 “Big Fish in a Small Town,” and April 12 “Fun Girls.” Each lecture is $10. Reservations are needed at least a week in advance by calling (336) 786-7998 or emailing name and phone number to arts@surryarts.org. www.surryarts.org St. Patrick’s Day Chili Cook-off Sat, March 10, 11am – 2pm Henderson, NC 27536 Chili cook-off with teams competing for the best tasting chili, hottest chili and best decorated site. Benefits a local domestic violence shelter. Corner of Breckenridge and Garnett Streets in Historic Downtown Henderson. www.hendersondowntown.us 77th Annual Highfalls Old-Time Fiddlers’ Convention Sat, March 10, 6pm – 11pm Auditorium, North Moore High School Robbins, NC 27325 Annual event that bring musicians from all over the state to compete for first place in various categories, such as Band, Fiddle, Banjo, Guitar, Mandolin, Singer and Dancing. Concession Stand. Admission for spectators $7.00.

Registration for musicians 5-7:30pm. Competition begins at 6pm. For more information please call Highfalls Elementary School at (910) 464-3600.

6

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

Destinations Highlands Annual Chili Cook-Off Sat, March 10, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm 869 North Fourth Street Highlands, NC 28741 Highlands Community Building Highlands, NC 28741 Wake up your taste buds at the Highlands Chamber of Commerce Annual Chili Cook-Off Saturday March 10th from 6:30-9:30pm at the Highlands Community Building. If you would like to enter as a competitor and fire up your best chili recipe, bake your best batch of cornbread, or your family’s secret salsa recipe, all you have to do is contact Jennifer Smathers at 828-526-5841. Don’t wait to long to enter space is limited and filling up fast. Prizes will be awarded for The Hottest, Most Traditional, Most Unique, and Best Table Presentation. Also for Best Cornbread and Best Salsa. www.highlandschamber.org Southern Pines Horse Trials I Mar 10 – 11, 2012 Raeford, NC 28376 Three days of competition, 350-400 horses. Located just off Hwy 211 between Aberdeen and Raeford. www.carolinahorsepark.com Battle of Guilford Courthouse 231th Anniversary and Reenactment Mar 14 – 16, 2012 Country Park: 3905 Nathanael Green Drive Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, Tannenbaum Historic Park: 2332 New Garden Road Greensboro, NC 27455 Watch history come alive at this annual event to mark the 231st anniversary of the 1781 Revolutionary War Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Watch the troops battle and reenact this pivotal battle in Revolutionary War history. Not only do you get to see the battle, but watch the soldiers prepare for battle, visit their encampments featuring period actors and see how people lived during the time of the Battle! The event features a lecture series, a commemorative observance, military encampments, music, and programs. www.nps.gov/guco OBX Taste of the Beach Mar 15 – 18, 2012 Nags Head, NC 27959 Four days of food, drinks and fun. Presented by the Dare County Restaurant Association. This grand food festival will feature wine tastings, cooking classes, special menu presentations, celebrity guest chef appearances, brewery tours, tapas crawls and many more events with an exciting array of creative combinations and culinary delights. www.obxtasteofthebeach.com The 16th Annual Charlotte Goes Green Festival Sat, March 17, 10:00am – 6:30pm Tryon Street Charlotte, NC 28206 The 16th Annual Charlotte Goes Green Festival will feature live Irish music, Irish dancers, Pipe & Drum bands, Irish/Celtic vendors, Arts & Crafts and other vendors, a large Children’s amusement area and lots of food & beverages.

Join us for the party before and after the Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the premier St. Patrick’s Day parades in the Southeast. www.charlottestpatsday.com

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

7

Destinations Catawba Valley Pottery & Antiques Festival Mar 23 – 24, 2012 Hickory Metro Convention Center Hickory, NC 28602 More than 100 vendors, Antique southern traditional pottery as well as contemporary pottery.

Antique furniture, textiles and fork art. Preview party Friday night 7-10pm, $40 advance tickets only. Includes early buying, catering by Southern Supper and live entertainment by the Sigmon Stringers. Saturday, 9am-5pm $6 admission. Children under 12 $2. www.catawbahistory.org Rainbows and Ramps March 24, 2012 Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds Feast on succulent trout and pungent wild onion/garlic-like ramps. Honor the Cherokee elders on their special day. Pitch horseshoes and make that iron ring! Whether you compete for big prizes or just admire the masters, you’re in for big fun. Held during Cherokee’s trout season opening, this gathering includes music, senior games, craft exhibitions, and the chance to head home with a full creel. Contact: Howard Wahnetah- 828-554-6471 3rd Annual Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention Mar 30 – 31, 2012 Surry Community College Dobson, NC 27017 The Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention is an annual event in March including two days of activities celebrating Surry County’s rich heritage of Old Time Music. Located on the campus of Surry Community College in Dobson, the convention has a host of activities such as a Square Dance, Adult and Youth individual instrument, dance, folk song and band contests, Free Drawings, Cake Walks, 50/50 Cash Drawings, Raffle prizes, Instrument and Dance Workshops, Luthier displays, Jamming, and dining at The Knight’s Grill. $5.00 Admission, Kids 12 & under Free. www.surryoldtime.com Spring Festival at Shelton Vineyards Sat, March 31, 10am – 6pm Shelton Vineyards Welcome Spring! We will host a one day Spring Festival with free admission and free tours and tastings! Local artisans and craftsmen will be here with their hand made items! Easter Egg Drawing Sparkling wine bar inside retail shop with our recipe drinks. Fun run for kids.... and more! www.sheltonvineyards.com Shallowford Wine Trail Bud Break Wine & Dine Sat, March 31, 12 pm – 4 pm 1927 Courtney Huntsville Road Yadkinville, NC 27055 Enjoy an afternoon driving along the Shallow Ford Wine Trail as you visit each winery on the trail. You will get a nice taste of wine with a dish prepared to pair with that wine and of course you will keep your souvenir glass. Allison Oaks Vineyards will feature Pulled Pork Sliders on Homemade Sourdough Rolls with Orchard White, Brandon Hills will feature Tomato Basil Meatball Sliders with Raptor Red, Hanover Park will feature Tomato and Mozzarella on Chibatta Bread with Chardonnay and Surry Cellars will feature Chicken Salad on a Croissant with Traminette. To purchase your tickets, contact any of

8

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

Destinations the participating wineries by March 29th. Check out their website for additional information. www.shallowfordwinetrail.com April Fool’s Trail Days A Celebration of the Appalachian Trail Mar 30 – 31, 2012 Historic Franklin, North Carolina Come to Historic Franklin, North Carolina for April Fool’s Trail Days and the annual Hiker Bash as we celebrate our appreciation of Appalachian Trail Hikers. As an Appalachian Gateway Community, Franklin opens the town to all hikers of the Appalachian Trail as you start their journey north to Katahdin. Franklin is located 11 miles from the Appalachian Trail and is considered a welcome respite from the cold and usually wet early spring weather. You’ll find plenty of good food, great conversation and lots to do during this weekend celebration. The Hiker Bash hosted by Ronnie Haven at Sapphire Inn on East Main Street is a great place to connect and share stories and advice and fill up on some good eats. The Hiker Bash will begin at 6:00p.m. each evening. Saturday, April Fool’s Trail Days Festival gets underway with great entertainment, food and special workshops, exhibits and world renown visitors including Jennifer Pharr Davis, the women’s record holder of the fastest thru-hike of the trail. You’ll find much more information inside this site so take a look around. If you have questions call (828) 524-2516. www.Aprilfoolstraildays.com 8th Annual Herb Festival April 7 – 9, 2012 Painters Greenhouse Old Fort, NC 28762 Come savor the smell and taste of fresh-grown herbs! Craftsmen, vendors & musicians will entertain both days. Painters is approximately 5 miles south of I-40 at exit 73. For more information, call 828-668-7225 or visit www.paintersgreenhouse.com.

Eggstravaganza at the NC Zoo Sat, April 7, 9am – 3pm 4401 Zoo Pkwy Asheboro, NC 27205 See North Carolina Zoo animals hunt for treats inside decorative Easter eggs.

Blue Ridge Wine & Food Festival April 11 – 16, 2012 Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Enjoy wine tasting, seminars, cooking classes, wine makers’ dinner and much more! Grand Tasting event downtown and Fire on the Rock Chef’s Competition at the Hayes Center. www.blueridgewinefestival.com 65th Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival April 11 – 15, 2012 Wilmington, NC 28401 The Festival is a celebration of Wilmington’s exceptional artwork, gardens, rich history and culture during its five days of entertainment that includes a parade, street fair, circus, concerts, pageantry, and all that is Southern. Please check the website for specific events, dates and details. www.ncazaleafestival.org

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

9

Destinations 4th Annual NC Pottery Festival April 14 – 15, 2012 528 Old Plank Rd Seagrove, NC 27341 This annual Spring pottery festival will feature local and regional potters, traditional crafters, and demonstrations.

336-873-7887 British Car Gathering at Shelton Vineyards Sat, April 14, 10am – 6pm Shelton Vineyards British Car Gathering ~ 10 AM - 6 PM The British Are Coming! The British Are Coming! The Southeast’s largest display of vintage automobiles.

There will be numerous British cars on the grounds of Shelton Vineyards.

There will be over 200 cars on display. Come on out and enjoy viewing the Austin Healeys, Jags, MG’s, Triumphs, Bentleys and others! Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, a picnic basket if you like, sip some wine and enjoy viewing these beautiful cars! Our Harvest Grill restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner as well as our winery for tours and tastings.

If you would like further information www.triumphclub.org/Gathering/ 13th Annual British and European Car Show Sunday, April 15, 2012 Chickahominy Riverfront Park (1350 John Tyler Highway (Rt5) in Williamsburg, VA. www.wmbgbrit.com/ Henderson County BBQ Expo Sat, April 21, 11am – 6pm Hendersonville High School Stadium Hendersonville, NC 28791 A family festival with vendors, BBQ cooking competitions, children’s activities, arts & crafts, and entertainment. www.bbq-expo.com 66th Annual Steeplechase Race Sat, April 21, 2pm – 5pm 3381 Hunting Country Rd. Tryon, NC 28782 The Steeplechase is this area’s biggest and most exciting equestrian event of the year. Join the crowds that come for the thundering of hooves as they navigate a challenging course over several races. There is lots to see as contestants for best tailgate show off their best country, most unusual and most elegant. The hats always turn heads with contestants vying for the funniest (adults) and the most unusual and most appropriate for adults and kids. Bring family, meet friends and discover the thrill of the chase. Come and spend a glorious weekend at an area Inn, Bed & Breakfast, cabin or cottage. The Blockhouse Steeplechase Race is sponsored by Tryon Riding and Hunt Club (TRHC), which is a non-profit (501c3) organization that was founded in 1925 for the purpose of supporting and preserving the equestrian tradition in Polk County and Upstate South Carolina. Tickets are by the carload and by advance purchase. For more information call 828-859-6109 or 1-800-438-3681 9am to 4pm Monday through Friday or visit us online at Tryon Riding & Hunt Club www.tryonevents.org.

10

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

Destinations MerleFest April 26 – 29, 2012 WCC Campus, Wilkesboro, NC 28697 MerleFest was founded in 1988 with the purpose of raising funds for Wilkes Community College, honoring the memory of Eddy Merle Watson, and celebrating traditional-plus music. This four-day event features music from nearly 100 artists on 15 stages, childrens activities, contests and activities, shopping, and more! Visit www.merlefest.org to plan your MerleFest experience. MerleFest gates open on Thursday at 2:30pm and Friday through Sunday at 9:00am. Check stage schedules for estimated performance start and end times each day.

BBQ Capital Cook-Off April 27 – 28, 2012 Historic Uptown Lexington, Behind the Civic Center Lexington, NC 27292 KCBS Sanctioned barbecue competition featuring teams from across the world. Other activities the Southern Gateway Wine Festival, Regional & National bands featuring Hunter Hayes band, kids activities, beer tasting, barbecue vendors from across NC and more. www.ptownlexington.com 30th Annual Fayetteville Dogwood Festival April 27 – 29, 2012 Fayetteville, NC 28301 This annual street festival features arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment on multiple stages, the Partnership’s KidStuff, midway rides, and fireworks! Plus, more than 30 events including symphony and theater performances, sporting events, a dog show, and much more! Drive the Dogwood Trail prior to the festival for a glimpse into Fayetteville’s horticultural brilliance. Call us or visit our Web site for more information. www.faydogwoodfestival.com Admission is FREE! 6th Annual Smithfield Hog Fest April 27 – 28, 2012 American Legion Fairgrounds Edenton, NC 27932 This 6 th annual’s title sponsor is Smithfield along with being sanctioned by Kansas City Barbecue and the North Carolina Pork Council - an event not to be missed. www.hogfestedenton.com 3rd Annual Foothills Wine Festival April 27 – 28, 2012 At Catawba Meadows Park in Morganton, NC. Wineries, crafts and music will be under the trees on the festival grounds. The Foothills Wine Festival will showcase regional wineries, artists, and musicians while supporting the land and water conservation work of Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina. www.foothillsconservancy.org Mountain Thunder Car Show Saturday, April 28, 2012 Commerce Street, Old Fort, NC 28762 Annual Mountain Thunder Car Show in downtown, historic Old Fort. Sponsored by the Route 70 Cruisers, all makes and models of cars, trucks and motorcycles are invited to join the fun, no entrance or admission fees! There will be food, crafts and a “swap meet” area for treasure hunters. www.route70cruisers.com

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

11

Film Junkies Guide to North Carolina Iredell County Locations MOORESVILLE Mooresville is just off I-77 north of Charlotte To contact the Mooresville Convention and Visitors Bureau, call 877-661-1234 or www.racecityusa. org. Another website of interest is www.downtownmooresville.com.

M

ooresville’s nickname, “Race City USA,” belies the town’s historical significance. Long before the days of NASCAR, John Franklin Moore brought the Atlantic, Tennessee and Ohio Railroad to town and built a depot for cotton exports.

Incorporated in 1873, Mooresville began as an agricultural community and expanded into textiles. Now, it’s also noted for health care, motorsports, tourism, and, yes, film production.

D owntown Mo oresvi l le retains many of its original mid 1800’s buildings. A stroll along Main and Broad streets will bring film junkies up close and personal with locations used in “A Stoning in Fulham County,” starring then-unknown Brad Pitt and veteran actors Ken Olin, Jill Eickenberry, and Ron Perlman. In one buggy scene, a horse rears excitedly along Main Street as it passes through town. In contrast, when the downtown area stands in for Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in “Shake, Rattle and Roll: An American Love Story,” a violent civil-rights scene erupts in front of the 1899 D. E. Turner

12

Hardware Store at 111-15 North Main Street.

Movies have also been shot outside downtown, among them “Vestige of Honor,” which filmed its Vietnam scenes in a densely wooded area. “The Lookalike,” starring Melissa Gilbert, Cheryl Ladd, and Diane Ladd, filmed at an old barn along N.C. 150. And scenic Lake Norman has had its share of credits.

M o o r e s v i l l e’s L a k e s i d e Business Park is the base for over 60 racing teams, so it’s not

“The most comprehensive way to learn where movies were made in North Carolina.”

--Lawrence Toppman, Charlotte Observer

The 160-plus entries in this travel guide are arranged geographically and include information about what movies and television series were filmed at each site.

Available through Amazon barnes & noble Google Books

www.FilmJunkiesGuide.com

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

The Catawba Queen uncommon to see NASCAR drivers like Rusty Wallace, Sterling Marlin, and Ricky Rudd in town.

The local visitor center is located in the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame, at 119 Knob Hill Road. The hall of fame contains over 35 racecars, assorted displays, and a gift shop.

CREDITS “Shake, Rattle and Roll: An American Love Story” (CBS, 1999),”Vestige of Honor” (CBS, 1990), “The Lookalike” (USA, 1990),”A Stoning in Fulham County” (NBC, 1988) LAKE NORMAN The Catawba Queen riverboat is based at Queen’s Landing, located at 1459 River Highway in Mooresville, for hours, call 704-663-2628. For information about the area, visit www.lakenorman.org or www.racecityusa.org., or call the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at 800-305-2508.

F

ilmmakers have discovered the charms of Lake Norman, the state’s largest man-made lake. In Days of Thunder, Cole Trickle (Tom Cruise) and sexy surgeon Claire (Nicole Kidman) go for a boat ride on Lake Nor-

man when they visit another couple at their lakefront home.

In Shallow Hal, L ake Norman Regional Medical Center stands in as the hospital where Rosemary (Gwyneth Paltrow) works with burned children.

And it’s where Hal’s dying father leads him astray with advice about women. Lake Norman Fire Equipment, Inc., poses as the exterior for Sun Records in “Shake, Rattle and Roll: An American Love Story.”

World-class fishing, camping, boating, and hiking along six miles of nature trails are among the recreational opportunities at Lake Norman. You can even take a riverboat cruise or a hot-air balloon ride to see the elegant homes, charming bedand-breakfasts, and fine hotels and restaurants that surround the camera-worthy lake.

CREDITS “She Says She’s Innocent” (NBC, 1991) stars Katey Sagal. Lake Norman’s other credits include Shallow Hal (2001); “Shake, Rattle and Roll: An American Love Story” (CBS, 1999); and Days of Thunder (1990).

From the Film Junkies Guide to North Carolina

by Connie Nelson and Floyd Harris.

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

13

2012 North Carolina Azalea Festival Street Fair T he North Carolina Azalea Festival STREET FAIR April 13th - 15th is a free, family event with over 200 arts and craft vendors, 40 food vendors, 4 stages, a children’s area and a whole lot of fun! The Street Fair is located in downtown Wilmington on Water, Front, and Market Street.

The fun starts on Friday night with the Main Stage, and Riverfront Park Stage entertaining the crowds and food vendors filling the air with delightful smells. The fun continues Saturday from 9am to 11pm and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

The arts and craft booths cover the entire stretch of the Street Fair and there is something for everyone. There will be old favorites like face painting, jewelry (made from sea glass to antique buttons), t-shirts, and photography but there will also be new vendors offering wine, hot sauces, candles, and local honey.

The food vendors will have the staples- funnel cakes, freshly made lemonade, gyros, kettle corn and ice cream but if you’re looking for something more adventurous; a deep fried Oreo or an eight pound gummy bear will

14

be sure to hit the spot!

With the four stages at the Azalea Festival, you can’t miss the entertainment! There will be music for all tastes. The Main Stage is located at 101 Water Street and will have beer available for those over 21. The dance stage

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

located in the Cotton Exchange parking lot will showcase local dance studios and an exhibition on the latest fitness craze, Zumba!

The Festival of Cultures stage located in Bailey Park will have all types of music from around the world.

The Riverfront Park stage sponsored by McDonald’s will host an Azalea Praise Fest. On Friday night, starting at 6pm there will be nine local praise and worship bands. Saturday will have a wide variety of music and dance ranging from area princesses, contemporary Christian choirs, and a big finish with a street dance and fireworks. Sunday will have Contemporary Christian music all day ending with Christian Reggae.

The children’s area located in the Cotton Exchange parking lot will have blow up rides. The Army will have a Hummer with video games and Home Depot will have do-it-yourself workshop. This is all for free.

For more than 50 years, the folks of Southeastern North

Carolina have been throwing the best party in the South and you’re invited! There’s something for everyone among our community’s rich array of artwork, gardens, history and culture. Come join us!

Have a question about the North Carolina Azalea Festival? Need more information about an event? Here’s how to reach us: phone: (910) 794-4650 fax: (910) 794-4651 www.NCAzaleaFestival.org E-mail: info@ncazaleafestival.org

Friday Night Concert: Scotty McCreery Clear as Day debut single, “I Love You This Big” became a Top 15 hit and enjoyed the highest charting debut for new artist since at least 1984, while the video for the song hit No. 1 in just a week after its release.

Friday Night Trask Coliseum, UNCW 8:00 PM

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

15

Madison – Captivated C

entrally located within 30 miles of Greensboro, Winston-Salem and High Point, North Carolina and Martinsville and Danville, Virginia, the Town of Madison is accessible to major markets and urban amenities while maintaining its small-town character. Future Interstate 73 (currently US 220) passes through Madison and provides easy access to one of the major north-south transportation arteries on the east coast and to the Piedmont Triad International Airport.

The Town possesses a unique historic charm with many of the original homes from the 18th and 19th centuries still intact and owner occupied. The Town hosts two historic districts that are included on the State and National Registries. The local Historic Districts and Properties Commission works to maintain the Jordan Cabin, built in 1799 and the Scales Law Office, built in 1856.

A stroll through the downtown shopping district offers a variety restaurants, craft shops, florists and other unique businesses. You will f ind quaint fami ly diners, deli and sandwich shops to upscale dining at a restaurant combining the north and the south. Storefronts are pleasing to the eye, enticing customers to browse through clothing, antiques, furniture, f lower arrangements and everything

16

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

in between. At the end of our downtown district, you will find Piedmont Distillery, the first legal distillery in North Carolina and makers of Catdaddy and Midnight Moon.

Located outside of the downtown shopping district are three additional shopping centers and many restaurants.

Within this area, you will find businesses large and small from department stores to specialty shops and furniture stores. You will also find medical facilities, banking services and service centers, ranging from hair and nail salons to convenience and tire centers.

During the summer months, Idol Park is the place to be for ballgames, picnics, walking trails and all outdoor fun. Idol Park features a covered picnic shelter, playground, basketball court and walking trail. For those who enjoy the beauty and relaxation of the river, the Dan River is perfect for canoeing and kayaking and provides two local access points for convenience. If competition is your game, join the annual Dan River Boat Race, the first Saturday of August.

On t he f irst Saturday in October, the streets are lined with craft and food vendors at the annual Heritage Festival, sponsored by the Downtown Merchants. Center stage will be the point of entertainment all day, with the Big Band taking stage just after sunset for a night of singing and dancing. The Annual Shinefest celebrates the legacy of moonshine and Continued on 18 DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

17

Continued from 17

features tours of Piedmont Distillery, autographs from Junior Johnson and a look at seven generations of sto ck cars. This t wo-d ay e vent, t he last weekend of July, brings visitors from all over North Carolina and adjoining states to enjoy this unique experience.

One of Madison’s greatest achievements is the quality of life pres ente d to e ver y individual that comes into our town. Our Town is full of friendly people, always willing to lend a helping hand to their neighbor or anyone in need. Very rarely can you take a walk without someone stopping you to just say hello or asking how your family is doing.

We hope that you v i s it Ma d i s on a n d e nj oy ou r h i s t or i c downtown and friendly atmosphere that will help provide a relaxing day for you and your family. You will be captivated by t he char m, b eauty, and u n i qu e ne ss of Madison.

By: Bob Scott www.townofmadison.com

18

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

800.852.7365 No Matter What you ride...

Find us on Facebook or scan the QR code for a chance to win a 32� flat screen tv! nccycleinsurance.com

Dashboards Our Saddlebags The Destination Magazine Market and

Who is

YOUR Client?

Male 49% Female 51% Ages 18-34 12.5% Ages 35-54 43.4% Age 55+ 44.1% Household income of $100K+ 44.2% Home Value $200K-$499K 43.8% Home Value $500K+ 16.8%

We Distribute Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine where the MotoTourist goes.

Locations that cater to the MotoTourist as well as events attended by the MotoTourist.

YOUR CLIENT IS OUR MARKET DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

19

April Fool’s Trail Days A Celebration of the Appalachian Trail Historic Franklin, North Carolina • March 30 & 31, 2012

C

ome to Historic Franklin, North Carolina for April Fool’s Trail Days and the annual Hiker Bash as we celebrate our appreciation of Appalachian Trail Hikers. As an Appalachian Gateway Community, Franklin opens the town to all hikers of the Appalachian Trail as you start their journey north to Katahdin.

Franklin is located 11 miles from the AT and is considered

We aRe a oNe stoP RestoRatIoN shoP Disc Brake Conversions Full Off Frame Restorations Vintage Air Installations Complete Rewiring Interiors, Body and Paint Founded in 2005, we are a family-owned, high-end classic car restoration shop.

6645 Denver Industrial Park Rd. Denver, NC. 28037

704-483-4826 • klassicrides.com

a welcome respite from the cold and usually wet early spring weather. You’ll find plenty of good food, great conversation and lots to do during this weekend celebration.

The Hiker Bash hosted by Ronnie Haven at Sapphire Inn on East Main Street is a great place to connect and share stories and advice and fill up on some good eats. The Hiker Bash will begin at 6:00pm each evening.

Saturday, April Fool’s Trail Days Festival gets underway with great entertainment, food and special workshops, exhibits and world renown visitors including Jennifer Pharr Davis, the women’s record holder of the fastest thruhike of the trail.

Yo u’ l l f i n d m u c h m o r e information inside this site so take a look around. If you have questions call (828) 524-2516.

LIVE MUSIC BEER SPECIALS

“Best brisket I’ve ever eaten.”

- Rick Browne,Barbecue America on PBS

1/2 PRICE APPS Monday - Friday 4-6pm & 10pm - midnight MacSpeedShop.com

ONE Of A kiNd HOLidAy gift

Commission Your own

Eric Herrmann S tudioS w w w.er icher r mannstudios.com

Chicayne, one of the most famous street rods in the world. 1200H.P. 1962 Biscayne, Chicayne was built by Rad Rides by Troy, for Billet Specialties.

Commissions Richard Childress Racing • Jack Daniels • BarrettJackson • The Indianapolis Motor Speedway • Discount Tire • Mike Corbin • Samson Exhaust • Performance Machine • A variety of private client’s cars and motorcycles.

888-200-6554

42215 N. LaPlata Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

3rd Annual Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention Weekend T

Shweiki

22

he 3 nd Annual Surry Old Time Fiddler’s Convention will be held at Surry Community College in Dobson, NC on March 30th and 31st 2012.

The Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention is an annual event including two days of activities celebrating Surry County’s Rich Heritage of Old Time Music.

The convention hosts a variety of events such as a Square Dance, Adult and Youth individual Instrument, Dance, Folk Song and Band Contests, Free Drawings, Cake Walks, 50/50 Cash Drawings, Raffle Items, Instrument and Dance Workshops, Luthier Displays, Jamming, and Dining at The Knight’s Grill.

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

TILLEY Harley-Davidson

®

®

Of Salisbury • Statesville

FREE GIFT with qualifying $300

purchase. Custom H-D® Touring Lantern, inspired by Harley-Davidson®

“FEELING LUCKY” ST. PATRICKS DAY EVENT MARCH 17TH ONLY TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Tilley Harley-Davidson® of Statesville 1226 Morland Dr. Statesville, NC 704-872-3883

Tilley Harley-Davidson® of Salisbury 653 Bendix Dr. Salisbury, NC 704-638-6044

WWW.TILLEYHD.COM

Ballantyne 704.752.7284 Charlotte 704.527.5783 Mooresville 704.799.2881

Voted Best Surprising Beer Selection Charlotte Magazine, 2010 Voted Charlotte’s Best Cheesesteak Charlotte Magazine, 2011 st Won 1 & 3rd Place at Carolina Wing Festival for Best Wings, 2011

• All Major Sports Packages • HDTV’s Everywhere

www.duckworths.com

Dupont Forrest

by Wally Wersching

L

ast Thursday was Ground Hog Day. It was supposed to be in the high 60’s in the afternoon so I decided to take a ride to DuPont Forest. It had been raining for the past couple days so there should be a lot of water in the Little River going over the falls.

I left home about 8:30 am in a dense fog. If the ground hog came out in Shelby, he’d never see his shadow. As I headed west on Rt 74, the fog got thinner and finally was gone by the time I stopped at Hardee’s in Forest City.

It had turned into a beautiful mor ning wit h br ig ht blue cloudless skies. I knew it was going to be a great day to hike around DuPont Forest but first, I stopped in Hendersonville to get some apple strudel for Cindy.

I went back south on Main Street and turned right on

24

Caswell Street which turns into Kanuga Road and eventually into Crab Creek Road as it gets close to the DuPont Forest turnoff.

I turned left onto Dupont Road which turns into Staton Road. I followed it until I turned left into the Buck Forest parking area. My plan was to hike to High Falls and then to Triple Falls. Usually, I park at the Hooker Falls parking area to visit Hooker and Triple

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

Falls. I thought that I’d change a little this time.

As I walked up the gravel road (Buck Forest Road), I ate my second sausage and egg biscuit.

The air was clean and the sun felt good. After a short time, I realized that I was overdressed and took off my sweatshirt. I still worked up a sweat.

The hike to High Falls was relatively easy until I walked down to the base of the falls.

The steps and roots were very slippery. I thought that if I fell and twisted my ankle or broke my leg, I’d be there for a long time. I was all alone at the falls.

I was very careful as I walked down to the base of the falls and took some great shots along with a video clip. There was a lot of water coming over the falls and the spray felt good – it cooled me down.

The walk up from the base of the falls is strenuous to say the least and the trail is a little rough too. After I got back on the main trail, I took a few more photos but the sun was in the wrong location. It was behind the waterfall and I was looking straight into it. The pictures still came out OK but if I were there later in the day, they would have been much better. I would have been able to see the covered bridge which crosses the Little River just above the falls.

I walked down Triple Falls Trail which runs parallel to the river. The river looked so calm.

It’s hard to see the actual volume of water moving until you get to the waterfalls.

After a few minutes, I started to hear the water falling over the

falls. It got louder the closer I got. I stopped at the Triple Falls overlook where they built a very nice shelter for picnics or gettogethers. It has a perfect view of all three waterfalls.

I like to visit the waterfalls during the winter because the foliage is off the trees. Sometimes during the summer or fall, the trees obscure part of the waterfall.

It’s like that throughout the mountains during the winter. I see things buried in the woods that are completely hidden any other time of the year.

After spending some time at the overlook, I decided to take Triple Falls Trail back to Buck Forest Road. It should have been about a quarter mile shorter that going back past High Falls. It might have been shorter but it seemed like it was all up hill. It was also boring with not a lot to see along the way. Occasionally there was a view of the mountains through the trees but most of the time; it was just trees and more trees. Eventually I got back to the parking area and then backtracked to Hendersonville.

Continued on page 26

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

25

Continued from page 25 I turned right onto Rt 176 to head south down the mountain.

Rt 176 is very twisty in that section. I didn’t stop in Saluda this time but I have many times in the past. There are a couple interesting restaurants and a lot of curio and gift shops on Saluda’s Main Street.

After leaving Saluda, I turned left to go toward I-26. I went under the interstate and stayed on Holbert Cove Road. I found this road a couple years ago and it is very interesting with a lot of turns and excellent mountain scenery along the way. At the stop sign, I turned right onto Silver Creek Road. I followed it until it intersected with Rt 9 just above Rt 108. I then turned left onto Rt 108 for more enjoyable curves and scenery.

After a few miles, I turned right onto Union Road. I was out to really enjoy the beautiful day on the great back roads of western North Carolina. Union Road will lull you into a false sense of security with its gentle curves – then it will hit you with a couple very tight turns. They wake you up or you go off the road!

When I got to Rt 74, I turned left to go toward Shelby. The four-lane divided highway was relaxing after all the twists and turns of the earlier roads.

I headed home to Shelby. I surprised Cindy by coming home early – about 1:30pm. She was also surprised by the apple strudel.

I don’t know if the ground hog saw his shadow or even what that means but it was a beautiful winter’s day - a teaser for what spring will bring. I had a very enjoyable day!

26

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

St. PatRick’s Party in the

PLAZA

11am-Until

Cornhole Tournament $20per Team Corn Beef & Cabbage•Outdoor Bar Give-a-ways•Live Music Featuring:

Blue Monday

MONDAY $2.00 Mondays! Tacos, Coronas, Margaritas!

TUESDAY Oh Ladies!! 1/2 Price Wines WEDNESDAY Trivia Nights!! $2.00 Dollar Beers THURSDAY Thirsty Thursday!! Jacks Draft Night FRIDAY Live Music - $5 Bombs, $2 Drafts

8301-1 Magnolia Estates Drive Cornelius, NC 28031

DIRTY BOY’S

Pressure Washing

SPRING CLEAN YOUR EXTERIOR

Commercial Buildings Residential Fleet Boat Detailing Auto • Motorcycle 704-696-0063 276 East Plaza Drive Mooresville, NC 28115

704•892•4433

Sun-Wed 11:00am-12:00am Thurs-Sat 11:00am-2:00am

PoleFit s a n i l o r a C

The Best Alternative Fitness Studio for Women is in Huntersville, NC ❍ Pole

Fitness for all Fitness levels & Burlesque Dance ❍ Yoga and Pilates ❍ ZUMBa ❍ airbrush Tanning ❍ Massage ❍ Professional Photo Studio offering Boudoir Photography ❍ lap

ANd dAyCAre For THe kidS

Mention this ad and receive 50%

OFF a One Month Membership 9611-a Sherrill Estates Rd. Huntersville, NC 28078

704•895•7606 www.PoleFitCarolinas.com Directly next door to Shomars!

Along the Way

28

Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine

Along the Way

DashboardsandSaddlebags.com 704-706-2365

29

Dashboards 704-706-2365 andy@DashboardsandSaddlebags.com Saddlebags The Destination Magazine www.DashboardsandSaddlebags.com and

• The FREE MONTHLY Destination Magazine • 100+ Locations - 50+ Cities - 25+ Counties • ONLY Magazine for The MOTOTOURISTAUTOS AND MOTORCYCLES • Through PRINT and WEB We Reach YOUR CLIENT! st OPEN APRIL 1 !

Thursday-Monday Hours:

9a.m. - 5p.m.

5 H 2- L C R MA PECIA S WTT EKEND WE G! NIN E P O

Maggie Valley, NC

Wheels Through Time Museum

62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

(828) 926-6266