Issue 064 July the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 64 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

The NC High Country’s Dining Destination

Soar Like An Eagle With Tandem Hang Gliding In Morganton Summer Brings Dinner And Brunch To Davidson College

Yadkin Valley Wine Country Emerges In Surry County Ghostface Brewing

A Very Deceiving Destination Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

CatawbaValleyWineTrail.com 828-433-6793 5 Wineries 30 Mile Stretch of I-40 40 Minutes from Asheville 50 Minutes from Charlotte

Countless Reasons you’ll love it here!

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July 2016 Issue 64

the

W

e Tell you where to go!

Whether you are a long time resident or new to the area, you’ll find local & regional events and destinations in the Destination Magazine™ that will have you saying “I never knew that was there.”

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The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will Contents not write about spectacular events you’ve missed. If you are seeking DayTrip Destinations 6 new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find a A Very Deceiving Destination new experience every month in the Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge 17 Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Photodude.net Marketing Manager: Lisa Jay Sales: Eric Beach Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara Werts, Teresa Blake, Project 543 Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, PhotodudeART.com, Olivia Binstead, Madison Hedrick The list of events in this publication is compiled from various sources dates & times are tentative & subject to change. the Destination Magazine™ is published by Photodude.net LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMag. com ©2016 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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The NC High Country’s Dining Destination

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Soar Like An Eagle With Tandem Hang Gliding In Morganton 20 Summer Brings Dinner And Brunch To Davidson College

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Yadkin Valley Wine Country Emerges In Surry County

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Ghostface Brewing

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We Tell You Where To Go!

Regional Events & Destinations

Just down the road...

Uptown Lexington & Davidson County

Art

Wine

History

Events

Barbecue • Shopping • History Festivals • NASCAR • Hotels Hiking • Golf • Antiques Boating • Weekend Getaways www.VisitLexingtonNC.com

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Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Mile High Fourth Of July Fr i July 1st–Mon 4th Beech Mountain & Banner Elk NC. This first-ever event creates an extended getaway weekend b e g i n n i n g Fr i d a y, J u l y 1 , a n d r unning through Monday ’s July 4 t h h o l i d a y. T h e t w o t o w n s , known for cool summer temperatures and warm hospitality, are excited to collaborate on an annual event in celebration of our nation’s independence. www.MileHighFourth.com 30th A nnual Christmas in July Festival Fr i J u l y 1 s t – S a t 2 n d 2 n d A v e , We s t J e f f e r s o n , N C 2 8 6 9 4 . Fr i d a y n i g h t f i n d s live music from 2 local bands performing a countr y/bluegrass and classic rock mix, street dance & food vendors from 6-10pm. Saturday brings the full festival to life from 9am-7pm with arts & crafts, music acts featured all day long playing the best in bluegrass, old time, gospel and countr y music, civil war reenactments, food, non-profits, kids

activities, street per for mers, a Christmas tree judging contest, tree bailing competitions and wreath making demonstrations! www.christmasinjuly.info A r t on the Greene Fr i J u l y 1st–Sun 3rd Historic Banner Elk School, Azalea Cir, Banner Elk, NC 28604. Art on the Greene, f e a t u r i n g q u a l i t y, h a n d - m a d e arts and craf ts from select regional and national artisans. Art on the Greene takes place Memorial Day weekend, the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekend.

The festivities include food vendors and other entertainment. www.bannerelk.com 37th Annual Festival for the Eno S a t J u l y 2 n d 1 0 a m – 6 p m 5101 N Roxboro Rd, Durham, NC 27704. One of the region’s premier Independence Day celebrations, the event features more than 65 performers on four stages, a juried craft show of 80 regional artists, local chickens and bees, and hands-on/feet-wet activities

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations on the banks of the Eno River.

Sweetwater Brewing Company will sponsor a Beer Garden situated on the lawn of the historic McCown-Mangum house. www.enoriver.org

and hula hoop off. Stay for the full day or return later to enjoy the headliner show at 8pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks show at 10pm. w w w. g r e a t s m o k i e s . c o m

Freedom Fest & Fireworks Mon July 4th 200 Main St, B r y s o n C i t y, N C 2 8 7 1 3 . O u r old-fashioned street festival begins with a dedication b y t h e l o c a l V F W Po s t a n d continues with great music t h r o u g h o u t t h e d a y. T h e music is complemented by an amazing array of handcrafted arts and a great children’s activities area. And don’t f o r g e t t h e P. A . W. S . d o g s h o w, watermelon eating contest,

Fo r t B r a g g’s 4 t h o f J u l y Celebr at ion M o n J u l y 4 t h M a i n Po s t Pa r a d e F i e l d , 1 1 - , 2 5 C a p r o n S t , Fo r t B r a g g , NC 28307. Activities include some of today’s hottest musical acts, parachute free-fall demonstrations, t h e p o p u l a r f l a g c e r e m o n y, fireworks, and food and beverages. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early d u e t o h e a v y t r a f f i c f l o w. w w w. b r a g g . a r m y m w r. c o m Continued On Page 8

Planning on buying or listing in the Charlotte/ Lake Norman area?

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Destinations Continued From Page 7

Independence Day Celebration at Old Salem Mon July 4th 900 Old Salem Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.

Enjoy 4th of July festivities at the site of the nation’s first official Independence Day Celebration: Old Salem Museums & Gardens. A naturalization ceremony, hands- on activities, historic Moravian traditions and patriotic music all welcome family and friends to the historic district of Salem. www.oldsalem.org Annual 4th of July Celebration at the Orchard Mon July 4th 1025 Orchard Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. Free music from 11-4:30. Admission for the meal is a dish to share, large enough for your party with some extra for the musicians who will be entertaining all day. In place of the covered dish, guests may pay $12 per meal. The Or chard provides fresh barbecue, water, iced tea, and paper goods. www.altapassor chard.com 61st A n nua l Gra nd fat her Mountain Highland Games & Gathering of the Clans Thu July 7th–Sun 10th MacRae Meadows, 221 Linville Ave, Linville, NC 28646. Grab your kilt! Brawny athletes, delicate dancers, bagpipe bands, parades, rocking Celtic music and a spectacular highland setting make this colorful celebration of Scottish culture the best highland games in America. Visit the heritage tent

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to research your family tree and then head to the merchant tents to find your family tartan. Set up your lawn chair beside the reviewing stand to watch the parades go by or settle into the Celtic Groves and groove to rock ‘n’ roll with bagpipes.

Watch men toss telephone pole sized cabers end over end, ladies kick up their kilts with a highland fling and border collies herd sheep with keen precision. www.gmhg.org 15th Annual NC Blackberry Festival Fr i J u l y 8 t h – S a t 9 t h L enoir, NC. There isn’t anything that says summer better than blackberries! Join us for our festival to enjoy the smells and taste of blackber ries when our scrumptious blackberr y cobbler is ser ved after our World’s L argest Patchwork of Blackber r y Cobbler Parade ( w h i l e t h e y l a s t ! ) . We a l s o have the Blackberr y 5K and Fun Run for you athletic types, and Pa r k i n ’ L o t P i c k i n g c o n t e s t s for you music lovers! Enter in the blackber r y recipe contest, register your young-in for the B l a c k b e r r y P r i n c e s s Pa g e a n t , challenge yourself in our Blackberr y eating contests, or bring your instrument and be a contestant in the Parking L ot Pickin’ contest.

NCBlackber r yFestival.com My ra’s Cla ssic & A nt ique C a r C r u i s e - I n Fr i J u l y 8 t h 6 p m – 9 p m Va l d e s e , N C . H e l d ever y Friday night at 6pm, you

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations and your family will be able to see a unique selection of the finest classic cars around! www.townofvaldese.com Coon Dog Day Festival S a t July 9th E Main St, Saluda, NC 28773. A festive atmosphere ever ywhere in Saluda, good food abounds, arts & crafts area, and children’s play. All begins with the Coon Dog Parade through downtown at noon.

There will be lots of music per for med throughout Main St. www.saluda.com

Elementar y School, 185 Azalea Cir SE, Banner Elk, NC 28604.

The juried festival has been ser ving the community with a unique ar ray of art for over 24 years and the combination of limited participants and proper atmosphere has contributed to the continued success of the event. www.aver ycounty.com

Rural Hill Food Truck Rally Fr i J u l y 1 5 t h 4 p m – 8 p m Ru r a l Hill Nature Preser ve, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville, NC 28078.

All ages are invited to attend and check out the great food Fine A r t & Ma ster Cra f t s that can be found in our local Fe s t i v a l F r i J u l y 1 5 t h – S a t food tr ucks. Admission to the 1 6 t h H i s t o r i c B a n n e r E l k Rally is free, but food pricing Continued On Page 10

Taproom Hours Thu & Fri: 4-10 Sat: 2-10 Sun: 12-8

The Bayne Brewing Company is a family-owned nano brewery based out of Cornelius, NC. Our flavors range from the traditional to the unique, and each beer is brewed with only the highest quality ingredients.

Visit our taproom!

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w i l l v a r y p e r t r u c k m e n u a n d D 9 B r e w i n g - L i v e Pa i n t i n g b y there is a $5 parking fee per Justin R. Christenber y -Local vehicle. www.r uralhill.net.

Artisans -Kid Zone sponsored

by Lake Norman YMCA. 20t h A nnua l Cha lk It Up! www.fb.com/blovecharlotte Sat July 16th 9am–4pm S Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792. Mayberry Cool Cars & Rods Chalk It Up! is a sidewalk chalk Cruise-In Sat July 16th 4pm– a r t c o n t e s t t h a t ’ s f u n f o r t h e 8pm 200 N Main St, Mt Air y, NC y o u n g a t h e a r t a n d c h i l d r e n 27030. The cruise-in takes place o f a l l a g e s . T h e s i d e w a l k s o f on the third Saturday of each Historic Downtown Hender- month, featuring music from sonville become the canvas for WSYD 1300AM, with 50s, 60s, 150 artists of all ages drawing and 70s oldies, and classic cars for prizes and fun. It is said to on both sides of the road. Bring be one of the largest one of your classic car if you want the oldest and largest chalk art to participate and ar rive early c o n t e s t s i n t h e n a t i o n . V i e w - for the best spot on the street! i n g l a s t s u n t i l t h e n e x t r a i n ! www.mountair ydowntown.org www.nar niastudios.com 12th A nnual Sunday Bash Old Tow n Cor nelius Ja zz Sun July 17th 12pm–5pm Tilley Festival S a t J u l y 1 6 t h 4 p m - Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland 9 p m S m i t h v i l l e Pa r k , 1 9 7 1 0 S D r, S t a t e s v i l l e , N C 2 8 6 7 7 . A s Fer r y St, Cor nelius, NC 28031. always, 100% of the proceeds This landmark event will fea- f r o m t h i s e v e n t g o t o t h e ture some of the area’s most Victor y Junction Gang Camp. e a r t h y, s o u l f u l , u n p r e d i c t a b l e We ’ l l h a v e t h e B o b K a r n e y improvisers on one stage. Calendar Girls here. Lake Activities include: -Silent Auc- N o r m a n H o o t e r s G i r l s B i k e tion -Food Tr uck Court -L ocal Wash. L ancaster ’s BBQ Anna’s C r a f t B r e w e r i e s : A s s C l o w n Sweet Treats and Ronnie’s Bike B r e w i n g , B a y n e B r e w i n g & Show. Keeping us rocking will

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations be the Part Time Blues Band. www.tilleyhd.com 33rd Folkmoot Festival Thu July 21st–Sun 31st N Main St, Wa y n e s v i l l e , N C 2 8 7 8 6 . W i t h dozens of performances held during two weeks by hundreds of world dancers and musicians from nine countries, Folkmoot brings the world’s 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 Continued On Page 12

704•997•2354 www.eltorogrill.us

Conveniently located for all LKN visitors.

Perfect for the entire family.

20930 Torrence Chapel Rd. Cornelius.

Just west of I-77 exit 28

Antique Car Restoration Complete Turnkey Hot Rods Custom Motorcycles Chassis Fabrication Custom Body Fabrication

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Destinations Continued From Page 11

USA Masters Games Thu July 21st–Sun 31st 1921 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27403.

Come join us in Greensboro for the inaugural USA Masters Games! The games mark the launch of a new multi-sport event for competitive adult a t h l e t e s a g e s 2 1 a n d o v e r.

T h e U SA M a s t e r s G a m e s w i l l provide both a “national-championship-level” competitive experience in each sport and a fun, entertaining environment conducive to meeting and socializing with fellow Masters athletes from across the U.S. and other countries of the w o r l d – a S p o r t s Fe s t i v a l f o r Masters athletes and fans! The USA Masters Games will feature Opening Ceremonies, Closing Ceremonies, nightly entertainment, and a Games Village. www.usamastersgames.com

Jerdon Mountain Challenge Sat July 23rd Mountain Gateway Museum, 24 Water St, Old Fort, NC 28762. War m-up to the ORAMM or just come out and ride a 24-mile course that doesn’t have you riding in circles! This is back-countr y racing at its finest with a shorter course and still all the amenities of a long distance endurance race. This race will run the same course as the ever popular Off Road Assault on Mt Mitchell but will end before the famed climb up Curtis Creek R o a d t o t h e B l u e R i d g e Pa r k way. The race will still tackle 3,000’ of climbing more than 24 miles as you hit some ORAMM highlights like Old Highway 70, Kitsuma, Star Gap and Jarrett Creek. Celebrate with a huge after party complete with pasta/salad feast, New Belgium Beer and Shannon W NC B B Q Fe s t i v a l 2016 – Ridge Wine on the picturesque Smokin’ in the Valley Fri July G a t e w a y M u s e u m g r o u n d s .

2 2 n d – S a t 2 3 r d M a g g i e Va l l e y www.blueridgeadventures.net Fe s t i v a l G r o u n d s , 3 3 7 4 S o c o R d , M a g g i e Va l l e y, N C 2 8 7 5 1 . Militia Muster at Fort Dobbs W i t h u p t o 4 0 c o o k e r s , t h i s S a t J u l y 2 3 r d 4 3 8 Fo r t D o b b s is a Barbecue (BBQ) Cooking R d , S t a t e s v i l l e , N C 2 8 6 2 5 .

Competition & K ansas City BBQ A l l m a l e s a g e s 1 6 - 6 0 w e r e Society Sanctioned event. On required by law to ser ve in Fr i d a y n i g h t , t h e r e i s a l o c a l North Carolina’s militia during restaurant competition where t h e Fr e n c h a n d I n d i a n Wa r. you can be the judge. Saturday These civilians would gather at a f t e r n o o n , v i s i t t h e “ Ta s t i n ” appointed times during the year Te n t ” t o s a m p l e c o m p e t i t o r s ’ t o p r a c t i c e m i l i t a r y d r i l l a n d entries. Daily features include could be used to quickly for m a r t s & c r a f t s , a k i d s c o r n e r, an ar my for defense at times of e n t e r t a i n m e n t & b e v e r a g e invasion. Historic interpreters sales, including beer and wine. representing the Rowan County www.maggievalley.org militia will offer on-going Continued On Page 14

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displays of militar y camp life, as well as featured musket and cannon firing demonstrations. www.fortdobbs.org K-9s In Flight Sat July 23rd– Sun 31st 300 Tweetsie Railroad Rd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.

Don’t miss these high-energy performances showcasing a team of dynamic dogs in acro batic freestyle routines. These dogs have dazzled audiences nationwide at half time shows and on television. First-come, first-served seating. Show times at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm each day. www.tweetsie.com

July 24th 12pm–4pm 450 Groce Rd, Ronda, NC 28670.

Representatives will be on-site to discuss the speed, style, and beauty of each vehicle.

Cars provided by Foreign Cars I t a l i a , F i a t o f t h e Tr i a d , a n d m o r e , i n c l u d i n g Fe r r a r i , Fi a t , Maserati, and Lamborghini. www.Raffaldini.com

Hillbilly Jam 2016 Fr i J u l y 2 9 t h – S a t 3 0 t h M a g g i e Va l l e y Fe s t i v a l G r o u n d s , 3 3 7 4 S o c o R d , M a g g i e Va l l e y, N C 2 8 7 5 1 .

This annual all-day music festival celebrates western North Carolina and Appalachia’s rich musical histor y Euro Automobile Show at and the heritage of moonshine R a f fa ld i n i V i ney a rd s S u n m a k i n g . C o m e o n o u t a n d

Wine - Gifts Gourmet Snacks

TWO LOCATIONS

RUSTIC - Craft Beer Piano - Cigars

ONE

The DESTINATION Cabin LAKE NORMAN ON THE WATER

200-400 North Harbor Place - Davidson NC 704.237.3629

www.LakeNormanCottage.com

Next to North Harbor Club on the water off of exit 30 I-77

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Destinations have a hillbilly good time. www.hillbillywoodstock.com Hickor y Fur niture Ma r t Furniture Festival & Clearance Sale Fr i J u l y 2 9 t h – S u n 31st 2220 US Hwy 70 SE, Hickor y, NC 28602. Live artisan demonstrations and displays will be set up throughout the Mart and shoppers will be able to interact with fine fur niture craftsmen and artisans from o u r r e g i o n . Yo u ’ l l a l s o f i n d tremendous savings and mark downs on furniture pieces inside each showroom. Many items are heavily discounted to make room for fall inventories.

Customize any fur niture order based on your specific needs. www.hickor yfur niture.com Dow ntow n A sheboro’s P i g s & P e d a l s We e k e n d Fr i A u g u s t 5 t h – S a t 6 t h 1 1 5 S Fa y e t t e v i l l e S t , A s h e b o r o , N C 27203. A K ansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned barbecue cooking competition, a fast-paced criterium bike race open to amateurs and professionals, a beer garden, and local bands throughout the event. Food and fun-filled activities for the entire family! www.pigsandpedals.com 6 0 t h A n nua l Mt . Mitchel l C r a f t s Fa i r F r i A u g u s t 5 t h 9am–Sat 6th 5pm Town Square, Burnsville, NC 28714. With approximately 200 juried crafts, this event more than qualifies as a craft shopper ’s

Residential & Commercial Real Estate

704-897-3061 Online scheduling: www.tcornishlaw.com

8936 N. Pointe Executive Park Drive Huntersville, NC 28078

EAT .

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davidson, nc

Restaurant Row Craft Brew Farmers Market Shopping cedarsdavidson.com

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BannerElk.com

Regional Events & Destinations

A Very Deceiving Destination Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge

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his is going to be such an awesome weekend! That was the thought running through my mind when I turned into Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge. I may have been in an exceptional frame of mind from the relaxing drive to historic Plumtree North Carolina.

Plumtree is between Spruce Pine and Banner Elk. No matter where you are departing from, the last 30 minutes of your drive will take you through tree covered roads along fast moving mountain rivers & streams.

Cleve & Robin Young were exploring Western North Carolina with their daughter Lindsay and sons Cleveland, William and Philip when Cleve stopped to check out the abandoned T.B. Vance General Store built in 1919. With much love and patience the ongoing restoration project is the operational center for the Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge.

The name is very deceiving, to be more accurate it would have to be “Blind Squirrel Brewery, Lodge, Bed & Breakfast, Zip Line, Camping, Tubing, Cabin Rental, Ciderworks, Trout Fishing, Farming Retreat, I did have an awesome weekend.

Restaurant, Disk Golf, Event Space Experiencing chef prepared locally & Banquet Hall.” grown farm to fork meals, a zip line canopy tour, relaxing on the porch The heart of Blind Squir rel outside the tasting room, hiking to Brewer y & Lodge is the “Lodge a waterfall, dining along the river, Family.” You will not meet a single finding out how bad I am at disc employee during your visit. While golf... did I mention the tasting room? the Young’s own the property, each person at the resort takes ownership Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge and great pride in the vision of what 4716 South US Hwy 19E, Plumtree, NC 28664 Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge has www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com the potential to become.

Phone: 828-765-2739

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The NC High Country’s Dining Destination

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anner Elk is the culinary hot spot of the North Carolina H i g h C o u n t r y. W h e t h e r you’re looking for a five-star meal to mark a special occasion, a hearty Smokehouse and Grill for a more sandwich after a day in the great casual experience. outdoors, or fresh sushi in a casual setting, this town’s thriving food T h e Pa i n t e d Fi s h i s k n o w n scene has something to offer. for putting a unique twist on recognizable dishes. The menu And summer is the perfect time varies from pastas, ahi tuna and to visit Banner Elk. Although it’s curried scallops to bacon chicken just over two hours from Charlotte, and southern style trout. the resort town sits at an altitude of more than 3,700 feet, providing Banner Elk’s premier dining a respite from the heat of the experience belongs to Artisanal. flatlands.

This elegant restaurant, located in a refurbished barn, was I f y o u w a n t a t a s t e o f t h e recently named one of the Top mountains, don’t leave without 100 restaurants in the U.S. by ordering fresh trout. Have it for O p e n Ta b l e . c o m . A r t i s a n a l ’ s dinner at long-time favorite Banner menu rotates regularly to take Elk Cafe. The location also houses a d v a n t a g e o f f a r m t o t a b l e The Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery, ingredients, and the ambience which has a coffeehouse vibe. is second to none.

After spending an afternoon hiking or biking on nearby on Beech Mountain or Grandfather Mountain, stop into Dunn’s Deli to refuel. This New York-style deli serves mile-high clubs, tuna melts and cheese-steak sandwiches.

Wash it all down with a cold draft.

And don’t skip breakfast while you’re in town. Dunn’s Deli, Banner Elk Cafe and SisterLees Café all serve great day-starters. SisterLees is especially known for Belgian waffles, stuffed crepes and scratchmade biscuits.

Award-winning Cajun cuisine is available in an upscale setting at L ouisiana Pur chase Food & Spirits, or check out the Bayou

For visitor details and a complete list of restaurants, go to www.BannerElk.com or call toll free: 844-824-6777.

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Regional Events & Destinations

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Soar Like an Eagle with Tandem Hang Gliding in Morganton

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hermal Valley Hang Gliding, an instruction-based hang gliding experience based at Foothills Regional Airport near Morganton, hopes to re-ignite a sport that was widely popular in the 1970s.

has become more scientific and safer than those days in the 1970s, and that’s what we want people to understand.”

“You have to go to the Outer Banks or to Lookout Mountain in Tennessee to get tow flights like we are offering,” says Laura Pearson.

“Our situation is ideal because we get a tow and fly the hang gliders in a lot of different weather patterns, whereas mountain pilots always have to have a prevailing wind coming at them.”

Owners Craig and Laura Pearson have operated the business since 2011. They use a tandem hang glider towed by a light sport aircraft to give instructional flights that range in height from 1,500 feet up to 5,000 feet, and range in duration from 1220 minutes. Craig Pearson, a certified glider pilot and 25-year veteran, is strapped in a tandem harness with Customers wishing to become each student. a hang glider pilot are eagerly welcomed at Thermal Valley.

“We have ground school for 15 minutes before they fly and while “Our whole goal is to re-ignite they are flying we teach them how to the passion for hangliding in this use the glider,” said Laura Pearson. area,” says Craig Pearson. “Thirty “If a person just wants to experience years ago there were probably it and see the scenery, that is totally more than 100 hang glider pilots okay. We’re still going to give them in these mountains. Now there’s a lesson, but they’re not required to just a handful.” do anything strenuous or hard. They are able to ride along and enjoy it.

“It’s a way that families can share a memorable experience and walk away with a positive feeling for hang gliding. The whole process

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Participants must be 18 years old, weigh less than 235 pounds and be 6’3” or shorter. For details, call 828-292-8289 or visit www.thermalvalley.net.

Regional Events & Destinations

Summer Brings Dinner And Brunch To Davidson College

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ummit Coffee’s second location, The Outpost at Davidson College, is greeting summer and the community with loads of hospitality and a farm to table menu for their special dinners and brunches. The Outpost opened in 2013 in a beautifully repurposed fraternity building on campus. It houses a pub, coffee bar, cafe and social spot for students during the school year.

While the students are away for a few months, a new concept of offering special events and dinners that are open to the public was born. It has been a collaborative effort by Courtney Spear, the director of food and Brooke Basinger, The Outpost manager that has given life to this idea and together they have created all of the creative menu items. The ingredients are sourced as locally as possible which means the menu will change based on what is seasonally available each week. They personally visit Barbee Farms and Big Oak Farm in Cabarrus County, the Davidson Farmer’s

Market and Davidson College’s own 3+ acre farm to select the freshest items each week. The college farm which is managed by Theresa Allen, uses organic non GMO seeds and no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.

The Outpost is the second location for Summit Coffee owners/ brothers Brian and Tim Helfrich, both Davidson College graduates and Tom, their father. The original Summit was opened in 1998 in a 100 year old building located on Main St. in Davidson. In addition to the weekly dinners and brunches at The Outpost, a wine dinner featuring Tuck Beckstoffer wines is scheduled for July 23rd and a beer dinner with Wicked Weed Brewery from Asheville is on August 20th.

Teresa Blake Dinner is served on Wednesday evening 5-9 and brunch on Sunday from 9-2.

The Outpost is located at 120 Patterson Circle, Davidson NC 28035 www.summitcoffee.com.

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Yadkin Valley Wine Country Emerges In Surry County photo by: Travis Dove

J

ust over a decade since the Yadkin Valley was designated an American Viticultural Area, the appellation continues to emerge as a premier wine region for the East Coast.

One of the things that encouraged the brothers was the geographic location of the Yadkin Valley, home to elevations and growing seasons favorable for vineyards.

“The soil conditions here are very Nowhere is that more evident than Surry County. Located in the heart ideal,” says Charlie Shelton. “Our soil of the Yadkin Valley, Surry and its conditions are almost identical to affiliated wineries account for nearly Burgundy, France.” half of Valley’s more than 40 wineries.

Louis Jeroslow, winemaker at One of Surry County’s newest Elkin Creek Vineyards, echoes that wineries is Adagio Vineyards. Adagio statement. chose its location in Elkin, co-owner The Yadkin Valley is very much Tim Wahl says, because it’s in the “heart of North Carolina wine country, like Old World Europe. It’s like with excellent growing conditions, stepping into France and Spain and especially the foothills where we grow Italy right here in the foothills of North Carolina,” says Jeroslow. “It’s the grapes.” actually very ancient topography.

Such comments are music to the The Appalachian Mountains are as ears of Charlie and Ed Shelton, two old as the Himalayas, but the soil is brothers who came home to Surry very much like Tuscany, our latitude County from Charlotte about 17 years is in line with Sicily, and our climate is ago with a vision to plant grape vines most of all like Bordeaux. Our vineyard practices in the region are modeled to grow the area’s economy. after Bordeaux.”

The Sheltons opened Shelton Winemaking has always been Vineyards, in 1999, and spearheaded the push to get a federal AVA designation, a passion for North Carolina native which was awarded in 2003.

Jason Wiseman. That passion led him

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Regional Events & Destinations

to the Napa Valley in the early 2000s, but the emergence of the Yadkin Valley brought him home to Brushy Mountain Winery in 2006.

“We started to see promise in the wine industry. Small, boutique wineries opened up and we saw these small guys making fantastic wines,” Wiseman explains. “At that point, I knew my direction.”

The traditional-style grapes that grow well in the Yadkin Valley are: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Chardonnay, Riesling, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc and Petit Verdot.

For info on wineries/wine tourism in Surry County, go to: www.YadkinValleyNC.com.

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Request a Free Guide to

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YadkinValleyNC.com 800.948.0949

Decompression Destinations

Ghostface Brewing

N

orth Carolinians have always enjoyed trips to Mooresville, either for a lazy day on the lake, to explore the of history of stock car racing, or to take a short jaunt back to the 50’s down the colloquial Main Street. In addition to the usual favorite activities, Ghostface Brewing is a fresh destination that is rapidly making its way up the town’s ‘must do’ bucket list. It’s a new business amidst the charming antique side of the city, but it pays homage to it’s history by proudly sporting old bricks and beams collected from the original on-site structure. In fact, if you pay the brewery a visit and inevitably enjoy yourself, you can buy one of the bricks and have your name permanently affixed to walls of this unique establishment.

Of course the part industrial, part medieval style of this watering hole is not it’s number one claim to excite the masses- people are rushing to Ghostface for the beer.

that the beer menu never gets stale.

The brewery’s flagship beers, like the cleverly named Reapercussions IPA, and the Caliginous Bourbon Barrel Stout are impressive enough to stand alone on the taps, but they also have a great selection of guest drafts to add variety. Ciders, mead, wine, and gluten-reduced beers are also constantly offered to delight all of the gluten-sensitive Lake Norman destination seekers!

With over 20 brews on tap, there is something to entice every beer lover from every part of the state. The brew masters are at the hop-helm every single day working on new and diverse drafts to insure

Kara Werts

The exceptional aspects of Ghostface Brewing seem to pile on endlessly… (Did I mention that they always have two nitro drafts on tap?!) It is absolutely worth an outing to Mooresville to enjoy a Cuddy’s Irish Red over a game of cornhole.

Lastly, if you make it to Ghostface and decide that you don’t want to leave, Davidson Pizza Company is always serving on site and you can find out for yourself which housebrewed cold draft pairs best with a New York Style Cheese Pie.

Ghostface Brewing 427 East Statesville Ave. Suite 100 Mooresville, NC 28115 www.ghostfacebrewing.com

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Learn The True Story That Inspired A Famous Folk Song

T

hough the stories var y, the e n d i n g i s c o n c r e t e : To m Dula (pronounced locally as Dooley), a Confederate soldier known to be a ladies’ man, was hanged for the murder of 18-year-old Laura Foster, a young woman he was involved with just before she died. The passed-down stories from the Wilkes County myster y reveal a love triangle and rumors of deceit, though what actually happened may never be known. A family member of one With its numerous historic places and museums, Wilkes embraces the heritage of mountain traditions.

From its Revolutionary and Civil War heroes to NASCAR legends.

Benjamin Long Frescoes, barn quilt trails and reliving the past at Wilkes Heritage Museum, Benton Hall Arts Center, and Whippoorwill Academy and Village, there is something for every history enthusiast.

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of Dula’s captors co -wrote the stor y into a folk song, which was made popular years later by The Kingston Trio. Tour the historical sites in the High Country to watch the legend come to life on stage and to experience pieces of the puzzle that led Dula to his fate.

Project 543 tells the story of 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.

Regional Events & Destinations

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Destinations

LKNBrewersTrail.com

LKNBT Bayne Brewing Company Bayne Brewing Company offers several different types of craft beer in Cornelius, NC. Our selections will rotate based on the season and availability of certain ingredients.

Here is a list of some of the staple flavors. We like to think we offer the best craft beers in the area, so come on in and give our brews a try!

19507 West Catawba Ave Cornelius NC 28031 704.897.6426 baynebrewingcompany.com D9 Brewing Company A craft microbrewery located north of Charlotte in Cornelius, North Carolina.

From homebrew parties in our neighborhoods, to our first location’s humble one-barrel beginnings, intense local thirst for our Fanatical Ales™ propelled us to open our current 10 barrel production brewery. We are reimagining some of the world’s most unique and trusted styles of beer.

11138-C Treynorth Dr Cornelius NC 28031 704.457.9368 d9brewing.com

LKNBrewersTrail.com is a single source for what is going on at the breweries in the Lake Norman area.

Whats On Tap Whats Going On How To Get There

Ghostface Brewing We offer up to 20 beers on tap, with a selection of rotating styles, some available on nitro.

Tastings & full pours are available on-site, as well as full growler fills to go.

We also offer a selection of tasty flatbread pizzas, as well as select food trucks on site. Click here for our current food offerings.

427 East Statesville Ave. Mooresville, NC 28115 704.799.7433 ghostfacebrewing.com

Primal Brewery Founded in 2013 and is a microbrewery focused on the production of a variety of quality small-batch beers.

The word “primal” as being fundamental and quality beer IS essential and fundamental to a good quality of life. We strive to brew beers infused with flavor and attitude seeking to satisfy the appetites of all.

16432 Old Statesville Rd Huntersville NC 28078 704.947.2920 primalbrewery.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Continued From Page 15

paradise, as evidenced by the over twenty-five thousand people who attend this event each year searching for those special, one-of-a-kind items created by artisans from across the Blue Ridge. www.yanceychamber.com 38th A nnual Sour wood Fe s t i v a l S a t A u g u s t 6 t h – Sun 7th Downtown, Black Mountain, NC 28711. Over 30,000 people from all over America will be in attendance at the festival which grows in p o p u l a r i t y e a c h y e a r. M u s i c , dancing, arts & crafts, super food, kid’s rides and games, face painting and more in a no-alcohol environment make it the perfect event for y o u a n d y o u r e n t i r e f a m i l y. w w w. s o u r w o o d f e s t i v a l . c o m 41st A n nua l Wa ldensia n Festival Fri August 12th–Sat 1 3 t h D o w n t o w n , Va l d e s e , NC. Annual historic festival c e l e b r a t e s t h e Wa l d e n s i a n s and their successful retur n to their homelands The day is filled with traditional Waldensian culture through music, food and dance. A traditional Waldensian meal is ser ved at t h e Wa l d e n s i a n P r e s b y t e r i a n Chur ch. Great food and craf ts plus various types of music throughout the day. Children’s rides, petting zoo, and 5K run, plus a bocci tournament, which is a traditional g a m e o f t h e Wa l d e n s i a n s . www.townofvaldese.com

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“THE MUSEUM THAT RUNS”

Maggie Valley, NC

Wheels Through Time Museum 62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

(828) 926-6266

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