Dashboards Saddlebags and
The Destination Magazine ™ Issue 28
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Beer Heaven? Looking for your Next Good Time? No R, No Problem Rural Hill Food Truck Rally And More!
YOur Destination Magazine!
Hanging Around The Rock Page 16
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Dashboards and
JULY 2103 Issue 28
The Destination Magazine
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f you are new to the area or a native of Charlotte, Dashboards and Saddlebags the Destination Magazine™ is your guide for finding unique destinations in your own back yard. Remember when the Lake Norman area was cows and not carp? I promise you will find destinations here that will have you saying “I never knew that was there.” Lisa and I are very selective of our marketing partners as well as our stories. If we cannot be proud of the content submitted to us we will not put it in Dashboards and Saddlebags Magazine, period. So, if you are looking for new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find something new each month in your destination magazine.
We know we are on to something! Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Produced by: Photodude.net LLC Sales: Lisa Jay, Steven Shober, Jason Nichols Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Connie Nelson, Floyd Harris, Project 543, Visit NC, Craig Distl, Ted Theodore, Nikki L. Young, Johannah H. Stern Contributing Photographers: PhotodudeART.com, Mark Houser, Johannah H. Stern, Ed Phillips
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CONTENTS Destinations 6 A Most Unusual Yet Official 14 Morganton Trail Guide Beer Heaven? 15 Hanging Around the Rock 16 Looking for your Next Good Time? 18 No R, No Problem 19 Explore The Mystery Of The 20 Brown Mountain Lights Run Gomer Run! 22 Film Junkies Guide to North Carolina 24 Rural Hill Food Truck Rally 26 Along The Way 26 Cover Photo - Singletree Gun and Plough Johannah H. Stern
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 ©2013 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.
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Destinations Annual Red, White, and Bluegrass Festival June 30 – July 4, 2013 Catawba Meadows Park, Morganton NC Morganton, NC 28655 10 th Annual Bluegrass Festival featuring the top names in Bluegrass. C h e ck w e b s i t e f o r u p d a t e s o n p e r f o r m e r s . C a m p i n g o n s i t e . www.redwhiteandbluegrassfestival.com 43rd Annual Southeast Old Threshers’ Reunion July 2 – 6, 2013 Denton FarmPark Denton, NC 27239 The largest steam, gas and antique farm machinery show in the Southeastern US! Over 1,000 antique tractors on display, hundreds of gasoline engines on display, antique farm machinery demonstrations, tractor pulls, lawnmower pull, horse pull, auction, arts & crafts, flea market, 15 restored old buildings, country, bluegrass and gospel music, and some of the best food you will ever eat! Camping is available. www.farmpark.com Live Music and More at The Historic Orchard at Altapass Wednesday, July 3, 2013 The Historic Orchard at Altapass Live bands play at the Orchard Wednesday through Sunday afternoons from May through September, and weekend afternoons in October. We also offer special performances by professional clogging groups, yodelers, and even a worldchampion whistler. Check out our Events Calendar for the latest schedule. www.altapassorchard.org Metrolina Expo Marketplace July 4 – 7, 2013 Metrolina Expo 7100 Statesville Rd. Charlotte, NC 28269 Come find great treasures at the Metrolina Marketplace from antique to shabby chic and everything in between! Collectibles and Antiques to the Market Street: home decor, fine antiques, furniture, collectibles, antique guns, art, jewelry, rugs, crafts, vintage toys & games, silver, pottery, china, silver, salvage items, outdoor decor, vintage instruments, fresh produce and more! www.metrolinatradeshowexpo.com Graham County Heritage Festival - Motors, Moonshiners & Mountaineers July 4 – 5, 2013 Robbinsville, NC 28771 This year Graham County Heritage Festival features motors, moonshiners and mountaineers as part of our 2013 Independence Day weekend celebration. Join us Saturday and Sunday, July 5 & 6, on Courthouse Square in downtown Robbinsville for entertainment, contests, food, fun and more. You can meet Moonshiners in their hometown where part of their popular television show is filmed. See replicas of automobiles like the General Lee and Dixie from the Dukes of Hazzard television show with Hazzard Life. And join the crowds who gather to watch local loggers compete in lumberjack contests. No need to go hungry –enjoy delicious food while you listen to local bands play genuine mountain bluegrass and country music tunes. Want some exercise? Spend the evening dancing on the square. For more information about the festival, please call 828-479-3790 or visit www.grahamcounty.net. It’s a down-home good time in Robbinsville, and everyone’s invited! Heavy Rebel Weekender July 4 – 5, 2013 Millennium Center and on Trade Street Downtown Winston-Salem, NC 27101 The Heavy Rebel Weekender
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Destinations is a celebration of the “Heaviest Rebels” of Rock and Roll. Open: Thursday July 4 Pre-Party at The Garage 8pm - 1am Admission; 3-day pass $90 in advance, $100 at the door, 1-day pass (Fri-Sat-Sun) $35. See web site for more information. www.heavyrebel.net Independence Day Celebration at Fontana Village Thu, July 4, 9am – 11pm 300 Woods Rd Fontana Dam, NC 28733 Live music, cookout, games, swimming contests, and parade -- all topped off with fireworks. Fontana Village Resort is located in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest & is the southwestern entrance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. www.fontanavillage.com Lake Reidsville Celebration Thu, July 4, 3:30pm – 11:00pm 630 Waterworks Rd Reidsville, NC 27320 11:00pm - Festivities begin, vendors arrive with food, drinks, rides, inflatables and much more. 3:30pm - 10:00pm - Concert performances begin leading up to a spectacular fire works show. For more information call 336-349-4792 www.ci.reidsville.nc.us 17th Annual Battleship Blast Thu, July 4, 9:05pm – 10:00pm Wilmington Riverfront Wilmington, NC 28401 A huge and wonderfully choreographed fireworks display explodes over the Battleship. View this spectacular event from the beautiful Historic Downtown Wilmington Riverfront. The Battleship closes at 6 pm for fireworks set up. Enjoy watching the 2013 17th Annual Battleship Blast Fireworks show starting at 9:05pm You don’t want to miss out!
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Destinations Charlotte Area Cars and Coffee Sat, July 6, 7:30am – 11:00am Mattie’s Diner / NC Music Factory Uptown Village-Main Lot 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd, Charlotte NC 28206 “From This Day Forward” Outdoor Drama Friday, July 12, 2013 Valdese, NC 28690 This is a truly inspiring story of the early settlers of Valdese, known as the Waldensians. Their strong Christian faith provided what they needed to survive years of persecution. Their story is told through drama, music and dance and covers their early years in Northern Italy to their move to western North Carolina where they founded the little town of Valdese. www.oldcolonyplayers.com Reidsville Downtown Cruise In Fri, July 12, 6pm – 9pm Downtown Reidsville NC If your car is a 1987 or older... Come join the EZ Street Cruisers Car Club Cruise In! Live Music-Rain or Shine!-Televised!!! Summer Stroll Fri, July 12, 6pm – 8pm Historic Uptown Lexington, NC 27292 “Meet Us on Main Street” for the third stroll of the season. In the Conrad & Hinkle square the bluesy sound of Big Daddy MoJo await you. Outdoor activities may be impacted by rain or storms; however, merchants will be open! www.uptownlexington.com After Hours Cruise-In Fri, July 12, 4:30pm – 7:30pm Steele Rubber Products 6180 E NC 150 Hwy Denver NC 28037 Celebrate National Collector Car Appreciation Day. Open to all years, makes and models. Free refreshments, local dignitaries and kid’s activities. Drive in and receive a goodie bag! 704-483-9343 www.steelerubber.com Carolina Mountain Ribfest July 13 – 14, 2013 Western North Carolina Agricultural Center Fletcher, NC 28732 World Class professional barbecue rib vendors from all over the country, live entertainment, amusement rides, arts & crafts and more. They will be serving mouth watering, award winning BBQ Ribs, Brisket, Pulled Pork and Chicken, with all the traditional side dishes. www.wcpshows.com/ribfest.html Music at Silver Fork: Locust Honey String Band Saturday, July 13, 2013 Silver Fork Winery 5000 Patton Road Morganton, NC 28655 Heart-breakin’ country harmonies and raging old-time fiddle tunes! That sums up Locust Honey in a nutshell. www.silverforkwinery.com Chalk It Up! Sat, July 13, 10am – 5pm Main Street - Sidewalks Hendersonville, NC 28792 Chalk It Up! - The sidewalks of Historic Downtown Hendersonville become the canvas for some outstanding works of art. The event is free and open to five age categories from age five and under to age 21 and over. All Day. (rain dates July 20 & July 27) www.narniastudios.com Folkmoot Festival July 17 – 28, 2013 Main Street Waynesville, NC 28786 With dozens of performances over two weeks by hundreds of world dancers and musicians from 9 countries, Folkmoot brings the worlds diverse cultures together. Sharing traditions and learning about people around the world has never been more exciting and entertaining! Enjoy performances, workshops, the Parade of Nations and meet the performers. www.folkmootusa.org
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Destinations Spruce Pine BBQ & Bluegrass July 19 – 20, 2013 Locust Avenue Spruce Pine, NC 28777 Come chill with the most sizzlin’ BBQ competition teams in the southeast and the hottest bluegrass in the nation! The event features a sanctioned professional BBQ competition, live bluegrass, award winning mouthwatering bbq from multiple vendors, a jamming stage, cornhole tournament, clogging team, arts and crafts vendors and a Spruce Pine Skedaddle 5K and Fun Run. www.sprucepinebbqbluegrass.org Acoustic PicNic- Jessup Mill Saturday, July 20, 2013 1565 Collinstown Rd. Westfield, NC 27053 Jessup Mill is happy to welcome The Holly Creek Girls on Saturday, July 20. Local favorites, The Holly Creek Girls play an eclectic, energetic mix of original Americana and classic country hits. Two-time winners of the Winston-Salem Shuffle for their original songs, The Holly Creek Girls project all the fun they’re having on stage to their audience – the result is a show filled with great energy. www.jessupmill.com Bikes, Brews N’ Views Beer Festival Saturday, July 20, 2013 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, NC 28604 The beer fest will mark one of the centerpieces of activity during the Grand Opening Festival of the Beech Mountain Resort Bike Park, and is held in conjunction with the 2013 USAC Gravity Nationals Qualifier held at Beech Mountain Resort July 20-21. Enjoy craft brews, live music, scenic lift rides, lawn games, demos, food, mountain bike rentals, tours of the emerald outback and the new disc golf course. Last year featured over 40 different brews. www.beechmtn.com
The Ultimate Olive & Vinegar Tasting Bar Experience! Our tasting bar offers you the ability to sample over 60 different varieties of our extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars and specialty oils.
119 N Main Street
Mooresville, NC 28115
Wine Gourmet Mustards Preserves Bath and Body Private Events Wine Tasting Bulk Spices
Wine Tastings NEW Bulk Spices Group Art Classes Wine & Paint Coffee & PaintI T E
EBS S E E WD E TA I L S FOR
704•230•4704 EnchantedOliveOil.com
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Destinations Cars & Coffee Greensboro Saturday, July 20, 2013 Jefferson Village Highwoods Circle Greensboro, NC 27410 River House Winefest Saturday, July 20, 2013 1896 Old Field Creek Road Grassy Creek, NC 28631 Annual River House Winefest includes a River House Winefest wine glass, tastings from all the wineries, lots of music, and, of course, River House food. The musical lineup features: Tim and Debbie Yates of Acoustic Heritage (bluegrass), Clay Lundsford Jazz Band, Martha Bassett Band (sultry Southern swing) and The Ardmores (soft rock and blues). www.riverhousenc.com Classic Car Cruise-In Sat, July 20, 3pm – 5pm Catawba Avenue, Old Fort. Old Fort, NC 28762 Held the 3rd Saturday of every month. Bring your car, truck or motorcycle. Downtown Old Fort, 3-5 p.m.; free Sponsored by Route 70 Cruisers. For more information, call 828-442-5135 or visit www.route70cruisers.com. A tribute to the Andrew Sisters.... Letters From Home Sat, July 20, 7pm – 10pm Market Square Reidsville NC Letters From Home, A Andrews Sisters Tribute is an amazing show that is brilliantly choreographed and sung in three- part harmony by professional and beautiful singers with angelic voices -- complete with full tap dancing and hilarious comedy. This event is free and open to the public. No pets, food or coolers allowed. Please bring your own lawn chair! www.ci.reidsville.nc.us 16th Annual Peach Festival Sunday, July 21, 2013 Main Street in Candor, NC Candor, NC 27229 The Peach Festival is a celebration of the peach growing heritage prevalent in the Candor and Sandhills area. The event begins with a Cooking Contest at 8:30am with an exciting parade at 10:00am Bring lawn chairs and enjoy the day with live entertainment - The Sand Band, Rocking Horse Unplugged and Blue Horizon. See our beautiful county via a helicopter tours. There will be vendors, games and rides for the kids, food galore and of course, all the yummy peaches you can carry home! Kids’ activities include bungee trampoline, rock wall, bounce house, bungee run, miniature train rides, pony rides and the Carolina Panthers mascot, “Sir Purr,” will even be here! www.townofcandornc.com Off-Road Assault on Mt. Mitchell Sunday, July 21, 2013 Race begins at Mountain Gateway Museum Old Fort, NC 28762 The assault is a 63-mile, mostly off-road bicycle route with 11,000 ft. of accumulated climbing. The route begins and ends in Old Fort climbing to the Blue Ridge Parkway and on to Mt. Mitchell. Entry fee/cash prizes. For more information, call Blue Ridge Adventures at 828-606-5107 or visit www.blueridgeadventures.net. Run to the Ridge July 26 – 28, 2013 Veterans Memorial Park- 691 West Lebanon St. Mt Airy, NC This is the third annual fundraiser for the local non-profit organization Matthew 25:35. Run to the Ridge features two stages for musical acts this year, a main stage and local stage. In addition to music, Run to the Ridge also features a poker run, rat rod show, motorcycle show, hog cook-off, children’s activities and multiple vendors.
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Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine™
Destinations Rocking the main stage are Journey’s former lead singer Steve Augeri; Bad Company’s lead singer from 1984 to 1994, Steve Howe; and Fran Cosmo, singer of Boston from 1993 to 2006. www.runtotheridge.com Rural Hill Food Truck Rally Fri, July 26, 5:30pm – 8:30pm Historic Rural Hill Huntersville NC All ages are invited to attend and check out the great food that can be found in our local food trucks. Admission to the Rally is free, but food pricing will vary per truck menu. The Rural Hill Food Truck Rally will feature live music by The Moonshine Racers, a Kid’s Zone, corn hole, hayrides around the property (fee applies), hiking, local merchants, and living history experiences. Complete event information can be found at www.ruralhill.net. SHAGGIN’ On Fieldcrest Sat, July 27, 6 pm – 10 pm Fieldcrest Road in Draper Village - Eden, NC Featuring Music from the Craig Woolard Band from 6-9pm Bring a Lawn chair Kids Area with Fire Engines, Bouncy House, etc. Area Shag Clubs will be dancing in the streets to their favorite beach music. Great Food - Barbecue, hotdogs, burgers - from area vendors and restaurants Beer garden serving favorite MillerCoors products Car Cruise In featuring beautiful vintage cars starts at 5pm 4th Popcorn Sutton Jam Aug 2 – 3, 2013 Maggie Valley Festival Grounds Music; Summer Jam - Centered on Legendary Moonshiner Popcorn Sutton www.popcornsuttonjam.com
Buying, Selling, Leasing, Property Management & Auction Services
It takes many strategies. Hope is not a Strategy
Tom McMahon, CCIM Managing Director 704-892-5653 www.svncharlotte.com
Local Experience with
National Exposure
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FREE Concert begins at 7
SATURDAY JULY 20 pm
SSalute alute ttoo oouur MMilitary ilitary REMEMBER TO BRING
YOUR CHAIR!
Letters Let tters From Home, an Andrew Sist Sisters ters Tribute! Tribute! www.ci.reidsville.nc.us
LIVE Music!
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Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine™
Destinations SCCA “Chasing the Dragon” Hillclimb Aug 3 – 4, 2013 Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, on what is referred to as Maple Springs. Shuttles will be provided. Robbinsville, NC 28771 The Dragon Hillclimb is a Sports Car Club of America Time Trial event - competition licensed drivers in prepared sports cars race one at a time up a 2-mile mountain road in class competition. The course is located near the Cherohala Skyway & Tail of the Dragon in beautiful Robbinsville in Graham County. The road race is on the edge of the Nantahala Forest, where spectators, course workers and drivers enjoy some of North Carolina’s most beautiful mountain scenery! www.dragonhillclimb.com Dan River Boat Race Saturday, Aug 3, 2013 Lindsey Bridge Access, Madison NC Mayodan, NC 27027 Families and singles alike with their kayaks and canoes gather together at the Lindsey Bridge Boat access in Madison to begin a fun yet competitive 2.5 mile race down the Dan River. Begins at 10:00am. Fun for the entire family and awards given. www.danriverboatrace.org Mud & Music Mayhem Obstacle Race Saturday, Aug 3, 2013 Willow Oaks Plantation 432 Willow Oaks Dr. Eden, NC 27289 Participants will climb walls, crawl through tunnels, trudge through mud, jump over fire and many more challenges. There is no charge for spectators so bring your friends and family. www.mudandmusicmayhem.com
DISCOVER N o r t h
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Let’s get these cars to Children’s hospitals all over the world!
A Most Unusual Yet Official Morganton Trail Guide
Children receiving care can experience the excitement of driving on the track while sitting in an authentically constructed Children’s Dream Racer. Strapped in and ready to play video games, watch a movie or listen to music streaming from the built-in A/V components, kids will soon forget about medicine and will be engaged in the thrill of racing.
www.childrensdreamracer.com The Children’s Dream Racer provides a fun distraction that will help pass the time and relieve tension for patients, parents and hospital staff.
We accept donations of any amount to build a Children’s Dream Racer. As a thank you, donations over $100.00 will receive a Dream Racer T-Shirt. When you see a boy so sick he can’t hold his head up, THEN a nurse rolls in a Dream Racer, he perks up, gets in, and a smile comes on his face. It just makes you smile.
WHEN A CHILD SMILES, THE WORLD SMILES, TOO!
Call 704.200.8566
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W
ant to learn about Wineries and Breweries, Art, History, and Hiking in Morganton? The regions’ tourism marketing arm has just released a new booklet of various trail themes in the area. This 16-page fold out brochure features breath-taking photography, helpful maps, and unique facts about Morganton and Burke County.
Tagged as the “Trailhead of Western North Carolina” Morganton is home to so many exciting adventures in the Pisgah National Forest, Lake James, South Mountains and Catawba River. Ed Phillips, Director of Tourism there says, “This Trail Guide captures the essence of our area with enough information to allow the reader to explore their own interests inside the county.” Continued On Page 30
Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine™
Beer Heaven? R
ob Duckworth and his incredible team have done it again... In opening #4 the NEW Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse in Huntersville with the state of the art taproom. When you are seated your wait staff will bring an iPad for you to peruse a drink of your choice. I was able to pick out some rare beers that I wanted to try so I emailed the list to myself. Next, pick up your very own beer scan card and step up to the “wall of beer”. You can sample an ounce of each, pour a full glass, or have the bartender one from the 112 options behind the bar. But wait, not a beer drinker?... Duckworth’s has stepped up their game and they have over 24 wines available by the glass for your palette to enjoy. Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse specializes in a non-pretentious menu that offers great taste. The menu includes local BBQ, fantastic ribs, pizza handmade to order, and the list goes on. I love the feel of sitting outdoors, but not the pests that come with it. The NEW Duckworth’s has an entire wall of glass that rolls up while screens roll down, so you can enjoy that wonderful out 16609 Statesville Rd Huntersville, NC 28078 door feel without being on the menu for the www.duckworths.com local mosquito’s!
Ballantyne 704.752.7284 Charlotte 704.527.5783 Mooresville 704.799.2881 Huntersville 704.237.4387
Voters Choice for Best Beer Charlotte Magazine, 2012 Voted Charlotte’s Best Cheesesteak Charlotte Magazine, 2011 Won 1st & 3rd Place at Carolina Wing Festival for Best Wings, 2011
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Photos by: Johannah H. Stern
Hanging Around the Rock W
hile Hanging Rock State Park was voted top NC Park in 2012, many folks have discovered that as well as the natural wonders in the Park, there is also great adventure to be found “Hanging Around the Rock!” This area boasts many opportunities for outdoor adventuring, sightseeing, live music entertainment, or rocking on a porch in gentle contemplation of the surrounding beauty.
For excitement on the pristine Dan River there are several opportunities to match one’s skill level. The Dan River Company has kayaking/ canoeing for half day or full day trips. Tubing is available at the everpopular Danbury General Store, Continued On Page 30
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Looking for your Next Good Time? H
ow about a day filled with amazing obstacles, live bands and plenty of Miller Lite beer?
The Mud & Music Mayhem Obstacle Race has you covered! The race will take place on Saturday, August 3rd, from the picturesque Willow Oaks Plantation in Eden, NC. The course will feature over 20 man-made obstacles plus many natural obstacles over a 6+ mile route. This will be one of the toughest and best obstacle course races in the region. Participants will climb walls, crawl through tunnels, trudge through mud, jump over fire and many more challenges. Do it to win! Do it for fun! Do it by yourself! Do it with friends! Do it as a 2-person relay! Just do it!!!! After you race, you will earn a finishers medal and enjoy a free Miller Lite beer. The party continues with live music from “Clay & Bengy” and “House of Dues”, inflatables for the kids, more Miller Lite beer for the adults and great food for everyone. There is no charge for spectators so bring your friends and family. For more information or to sign up, got to www.mudandmusicmayhem.com.
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Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine™
No R, No Problem A
s I began preparing to write this article, I found myself thinking of how miserable life would be to only have the privilege of enjoying your favorites things for a limited amount of time. To have things that bring you joy only for a season, but June Oysters courtesy of Big Daddy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar then be forced to let them go, only to remember how lovely it was when they were present. Although there are some circumstances that are unchangeable to this devastating fact of life, such as your fishing boat and flip flops, oysters no longer fall into this category. Contrary to popular belief, oysters are not contained in seasons that come with cooler weather and early sunsets. Take heart, oyster lovers, your fall-weather favorite is now available year-round.
The old wives tale “Only consume oysters in months with the letter R” was very true back in the olden days. Dating back to a time-period of nonrefrigerated trucks, it was not possible to ship oysters inland without them spoiling. However, that time has passed and they are most likely colder when they arrive at our back door than they were in their ocean home. The second reasoning behind this myth was that oysters reproduced in those summer months, due to the warmer water temperatures. Because of conservation practices, wild oysters were not allowed to be harvested during reproduction, or spawning. Now, with oyster farming acts, it is healthy and legal to harvest oysters year-round, without interrupting any spawning processes. We ARe A ONe stOP What some folks do not realize is that oysters are like grapes, whereas they obtain a lot of their flavor from the region they grow in. MFK Fisher once said that “American oysters differ as much as American people.” No two oysters are the same: some may be better in the summer months, while others better in cooler months. Either way, be encouraged to try out oysters in each season and figured out which your taste buds like the most. But most importantly, forget about the letter R!
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
Nikki L. Young 704-483-4826 • klassicrides.com
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Explore The Mystery Of The Brown Mountain Lights
Photo: Mark Houser
F
rom the time Cherokee and Catawba roamed North Carolina’s northern mountains, people have reported seeing strange lights at night in the Brown Mountains near Morganton in Burke County. Sometimes they’re pale, ghostly lights slowly moving along the trees, and sometimes they whirl and dart rapidly across the forest. The Brown Mountain Lights always appear in the woods, rise above the mountain then slowly disappear. The lights have even been captured on video. Theories abound from alien spacecraft to natural gas formations and, of course, government conspiracy. But no proven explanation has ever been established. The Burke County Tourism office hosts annual symposiums on the theories surrounding the lights, including group trips to the places where they’re most frequently seen. The office also has a photo contest challenging visitors to capture images of the lights. The Brown Mountain Lights are typically visible on clear nights from vantage points along North #89 Carolina Highway 181 and from Wiseman’s View in the Linville Project 543 tells the story of Gorge Wilderness area.
Around The World Travel (704) 664-1008 CRUISES HONEYMOONS www.ATWTravel.org ROMANTIC GETAWAYS SANDALS/BEACHES RESORTS ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS TOUR PACKAGES DISNEY PACKAGES SKI VACATIONS Julie Dunning
Vacation Specialist
111 Kilson Drive, Ste 206 Mooresville,NC 28117
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unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.
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®
North Carolina’s best-kept wine secret – only 2,600 miles outside of Napa.
Grab a glass and start your next spirited adventure on the CATAWBA VALLEY WINE TRAIL in Morganton, NC. You’ll taste your way through the fine wines of the foothills while enjoying 33 miles of some of the best wine country the south has to offer. Along the way, opportunities abound to break from the beaten path and enjoy a few of the countless hiking trails and other surprises that await right here at the Trailhead of Western North Carolina. More information and directions at catawbavalleywinetrail.com.
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Run Gomer Run! 3rd Annual Run to the Ridge set for July 26, 27 & 28, 2013 in Mount Airy, NC
W
inding roads, spectacular scenery, the Blue Ridge Parkway , live music and a chance to win up to $100,000. All that and more is on tap during the Run to the Ridge Bike Fest, July 26-28, 2013 at Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Mount Airy . The entertainment is booked and the excitement is building! Three of the most iconic voices in rock history will rock our stage this year! This is a three day event you won’t want to miss! Kicking off Friday will be Boston for mer lead singer Fran Cosmo. Saturday will be Bad Company former lead singer Brian Howe. And for the finale on Sunday, we present Journey former lead vocalist Steve Augeri! Come hear these iconic voices sing all the greatest hits! Tickets for concerts are $15.00 per day or $40.00 for a three day pass into all concerts. Kids under 12 free and as always this is a family friendly event! The main event is a poker run open to all bikers, as well as drivers of pre-1979 cars and trucks. Participants have up to 10 stops to choose from at their leisure, and can spread them out over the three days or hit a full slate in a single day. The stops are interspersed between the Yadkin Valley wine region, Blue Ridge Parkway , and the highlands of Virginia, and the historic “Mayberry” town. In addition to the poker run, a free rat rod and bike show is
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Saturday at Veterans Park . There will also be vendors displaying and selling crafts, L.E.D. lights, sunglasses, food, leather goods, laser graphics, and various other motorcycle vendors. There will also be a“hog” cook off with as many as ten smokers firing up on Friday night. Run to the Ridge is a charity event with a percentage of the proceeds going to Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina . For information, call Ric Marshall at (336) 918-2480, or go to www. runtotheridge.com or visit us on our Facebook page Run to the Ridge.
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Film Junkies Guide to North Carolina Great Smoky Mountains Railroad GSMR’s depots are located in Dillsboro and Bryson City. Various packages and schedules are available at different prices. For information, call 800-872-4681 or visit www.gsmr.com
T
rain wreck is a phrase most movies want to avoid, but Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is downright proud of having staged one of the most famous ones in contemporary film. Film junkies who visit GSMR can also ride in the same train cars as two “odd couples.” And one of the railroad’s locomotives is a star in its own right. Add in special programs that appeal to kids, gourmets, and murder-mystery buffs and you may feel like you’re in a movie yourself during an exciting adventure through the trestles, tunnels, valleys, and gorges of the beautiful western North Carolina mountains. GSMR took center stage in the early hours of a cold February morning in 1993, when one of the most stunning live-action train collisions in film history was set up and executed for a pivotal early sequence in The Fugitive. Even casual film junkies will remember the prison trip of wrongly accused and convicted Dr. Richard Kimball (Harrison Ford). A skirmish causes the bus on which he is riding to run off the road, down an embankment, and onto the tracks of an oncoming train.
After enduring several hours in the early-morning cold, as well as a go down for their own close-up with this piece of Hollywood history. But that’s hardly all the moviemaking GSMR has experienced. The Ben Affleck/ Sandra Bullock romantic comedy Forces of Nature features a daring scene on the train out of Bryson City. The free-spirited Sarah (Bullock) lures the uptight Ben (Affleck) to the top of the train car on an 800-foot-long trestle a hundred feet above Fontana Lake. The filmmakers wanted Ben and Sandy to be a bit more free during this scene, but GSMR insisted the actors be tethered for safety reasons. Though the film was less than a force at the box office, Affleck and Bullock, a former East Carolina University student,
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Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine™
are remembered as friendly and flirtatious off-camera. The popular James Garner was also a big hit off-camera, spending time between takes of My Fellow Americans talking NASCAR with GSMR conductors. The political comedy stars Garner and Jack Lemmon as former presidents on the lam. It filmed in a car on the Crescent Limited. While race fan and amateur driver Garner chatted with the conductors, Lemmon was content to spend his down time with his black poodle, often sharing ice cream with his pet.
Credits: Forces of Nature ( 1999); Digging to China ( 1998); Paradise Falls ( 1997),My Fellow Americans (1996); The Fugitive (1993)
From the Film Junkies Guide to North Carolina by Connie Nelson and Floyd Harris. www.FilmJunkiesGuide.com
OUTDOOR DINING DAILY DRINK FEATURES DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS CATERING FOR ALL OCCASIONS LARGE SELECTION OF BEER ON TAP AND BOTTLES MON
2.00 Mondays! $2 Tacos, 2 Coronas $4 Margaritas! TUES Oh Ladies!! 1/2 Price Wines WED $300 Well Drinks THUR Thirsty Thursday!! $ 2 Jacks Draft Night SUN $2 Mimosas $ 4 Bloody Mary $ $
704•892•4433
Fri-Sun 11:00am-2:00am Mon-Thurs11:00am-12:00am
8301-1 Magnolia Estates Drive • Cornelius, NC 28031
This 1939 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead Bobber is a beauty.... and it could be yours!!!
DRAWING NOVEMBER 2013 Order tickets at www.WheelsThroughTime.com!
Wheels Through Time Museum is a 501-C3 Not-for-Profit dedicated to the preservation of motorcycle history
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Rural Hill Food Truck Rally Friday, July 26 from 5:30 – 8:30PM
A
ll ages are invited to attend and check out the great food that can be found in our local food trucks. Admission to the Rally is free, but food pricing will vary per truck menu. The Rural Hill Food Truck Rally will feature live music by The Moonshine Racers, a Kid’s Zone, corn hole, hayrides around the property (fee applies), hiking, local merchants, and living history experiences. Complete event information can be found at www.ruralhill.net. Food Trucks on board for July 26 include Sal’s Roadside Eatery, Herban Legend, Sunrise Grill and Sandwich, Southern Cake Queen, Wingzza, The Roaming Fork, Gourmet Goombahs, Roots Farm Food, Auto Burger and Fry Guys, The Homegrown Crepe, Smoke and Go, Turkey And, Maki Taco, and King of Pops (handcrafted popsicles). And the list grows daily! Each Food Truck will sell and set their prices for food and beverages. Craft beer will be for sale from Highland Brewing and wine from Shelton Vineyards, as well as Midas Spring Water. The Rural Hill Food Truck Rally is sponsored McIntosh Law Firm and by Mecklenburg County Park and Rec, the Historic Rural Hill Town of Huntersville, Highland Brewing, Where History Springs Alive Shelton Vineyards, Lake Norman 4431 Neck Road, Citizen, Mountain Khakis, and Midas Huntersville, NC 28078 Spring Water. Sorry, no outside food or 704-875-3113 www.ruralhill.net beverages permitted.
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BARK At At Saint Saint Paul Paul Mo ain Mountain M ounta in Viiine ds s Vineyards V neyard Saturday, Sa turday, atu Ju 13th 3th, July J uly 13th, 1 1pm 1p pm m - 5pm 5pm with wi t th h
Asheville Humane Society!
3pm - 5pm • live music with
CARVER CARVER & CARMODY CARMODY
588 588 Chestnut Chestnut Gap Gap Road Road Hendersonville, Hendersonville, NC NC
(828) (828) 685-4002 685-4002
saintpaulmountainvineyards.com saintpaulmountainvineyards.com
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Photos from
Along the Way
find thousands more photos at DashboardsandSaddlebags.com
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Dashboards and Saddlebags The Destination Magazine™
INDOOR STORAGE CONSIGNMENT SALES Do you have that special Classic, Muscle Car, Street Rod, Hot Rod, Exotic or Project Car in your Garage that you have been wanting to sell? We can help!
158 Rolling Hill Road, Mooresville, NC 28117 704-564-9044 • WWW.DCClassicCars.com
Our extensive “DC Marketing Program” insures exposure to a large pool of potential buyers for your Classic via multiple Classic Car Internet websites as well as print advertising.
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where one can also buy groceries and drinks. For a different view up-river, and to see a turn of the century grist Mill, Jessup Mill has tubing, tours of the old Mill, music events, and beautiful campgrounds including platform camping along the River. The 1888 General Store, Priddy’s is a generational favorite where one can get a ham and hoop cheese sandwich and tour the historic store. There is also the “Pickin’ at Priddy’s” music series. Carolina Zip Lines Canopy tours has one flying high through the trees or enjoying a ropes course. The Hemlock Club par 70 golf course is particularly gorgeous as it lays along the Dan river. If camping is not your thing, the brand new Greystone RV Park has Continued From Page 14 beautiful views of Pilot Mountain. The booklet features the infamous Singletree Gun & Plough and “Brown Mountain Lights,” film locaSouthwyck Farm are two Bed and tions for The Last of the Mohicans Breakfasts in the area, and both and many other facts the reader will have rental cabins as well. Singlefind captivating. There is an Auto and tree also has hunting and fly-fishing Motorcycle Trail section for touring packages available. In the evening the county with curvy, mountain the new Green Heron Club has craft roads leading the way through the beers, fine wine and live music. The Stokes Arts Council in downtown Danbury displays locals artists and sponsors music events throughout the year. Come “Hang around the Rock,” where there is every activity to suit your pleasure! www.hangingrock.com
Less than a 100 mile scenic drive from Lake Norman the Hanging Rock State Park area is a beautiful mountain destination that offers both adventure and relaxation at a fraction of the cost of more crowded destinations.
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National Forest and surrounding rural areas.
The Trailhead of WNC Visitor Center is located in downtown Morganton. The Center has area maps, attraction brochures, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff to help you plan a trip to the area. Morganton is about 1.5 hours northwest of Charlotte and 2 hours from the Piedmont-Triad area. The Visitor Center is open 8-5 Monday thru Friday and Saturday 9-2.
Visit www.trailheadwnc.com or call 888-462-2921 to plan your visit.
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TILLEY Harley-Davidson HARLEY - DAVIDSON® www.tilleyhd.com
®
®
July 21, 2013
ALL PROCEEDS GO TO VICTORY JUNCTION GANG CAMP Food Provided by
GIRLS OF LAKE NORMAN
BIKE WASH MANY DOOR PRIZES
Fresh Squeezed Fruit Drinks
FEATURING
The Part-Time Blues Band
Bob Karney Calendar Girls Signing Autographs BRING YOUR CHAIRS & ENJOY THE DAY! RAINDATE WILL BE JULY 28TH
People’s Choice Bike Show 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place
MDA ON SITE POKER RUN 704-872-3883
th YOU1226 DON’T HAVEDrive, TO GO OUT OF NC THE 11AM 2PM House Morland Statesville, • I-77 Exit July 49A,13 Right At –Waffle PARKING LOT TO DO THIS POKER RUN!!
BEST HAND
$150.00- GIFT CERTIFICATE WORST HAND
$50.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE
(YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE PRESENT TO WIN)
$15.00 PER HAND BY EXTRA HANDS FOR $5.00
Now until N til JJulyl 20th gett your P Passport & Start the 2013 C CHDDA Ride for Life Tour. What a fun way to tour Dealerships! C for more info. Call
If you have a passport and an MDA collection envelope you can turn it in today!! This will register you ahead for July 27th big event at charlotte motor speedway. Must have raised $50.00 Or more for MDA to get to enter, get arm band to ride around the speedway and enjoy party and give aways at the end of the tour. HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY WE WILL BE CLOSED JULY FOURTH ONLY
TILLEY HARLEY-DAVIDSON® OF STATESVILLE
1226 Morland Dr. Statesville, NC
704-872-3883
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WWW.TILLEYHD.COM
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