Issue 077 August the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 77 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

Nuts About Outdoors Page 16

It’s Like You Own The Mountain Family History In Every Bottle At South Mountain Distillery The Best Hikes In Gaston Midway BoatHouse Grill

Slide Down Nature’s Perfect Waterslide Stroll Down Memory Lane In Revamped Griffith Museum Etowah Valley Celebrates 50 Years Of Golf At The “Brickyard”

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag com .

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Regional Events & Destinations

Go Gaston. Get Outside.

For the outdoor enthusiast in all of us, Gaston County offers amazing blueways as well as a wide array of other activities.

Let us help you plan your next weekend getaway and connect you with our County’s numerous natural assets.

Stop by our Visitors Center or call us today for a FREE Visitors Guide.

620 N. Main St., Belmont, NC | 800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 #gogaston | gogaston.org Photo credit: slowebean13@gmail.com

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August 2017 Issue 77

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.”

The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed. If you are seeking new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find a new experience every month in the Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Photodude.net Business Development: Lisa Jay Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara McMillian, Amber Duckett, Project 543, RootsRated, Niki L. Young Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Olivia Binstead, Madison Hedrick, Ed Phillips, Ann Gibson

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 ©2017 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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Page 15

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Contents DayTrip Destinations

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It’s Like You Own The Mountain 15 Nuts About Outdoors

16

Family History In Every Bottle At South Mountain Distillery 18 The Best Hikes In Gaston

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Midway BoatHouse Grill

23

Stroll Down Memory Lane In Revamped Griffith Museum

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Slide Down Nature’s Perfect Waterslide

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Etowah Valley Celebrates 50 Years Of Golf At The “Brickyard”

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Regional Events & Destinations

DISCOVER THE

BROWNLIGHTS MOUNTAIN (AT YOUR OWN RISK)

Not too far outside of Morganton, North Carolina in the Pisgah National Forest, a mysterious light can sometimes be seen floating above the mountain or down in the valley below. This light was considered folklore or legend until Appalachian State University captured the light on two cameras in June, 2016. The light defies all scientific explanation. Come try to see it for yourself.

FREE “Brown Mountain Lights Viewing Guide� available at the Burke County Visitor Center.

110 East Meeting Street, Morganton, NC www.discoverburkecounty.com

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Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Nor th Carolina Mineral and Gem Festival Thu August 3rd–Sun 6th 12121 NC-226, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. For more than 50 years, Spruce Pine has welcomed visitors from around the world to the North Carolina Mineral and Gem Festival. The indoor event features dealers from around the country selling jewelry, gemstones, fossils, beads, and more. www.ncgemfest.com

of all mediums. Have lunch and listen to live music on the shaded Square. www.yanceychamber.com

NOC Paddle Grapple Sat August 5th Nantahala Outdoor Center, Tsali Rd, Stecoah, NC. Choose from SUP, surfski, marathon, kayak or canoe classes in this race on beautiful Fontana Lake in the Great Smoky Mountains. With a 3 and 6 mile race option, the Paddle Grapple offers an option for every boater, whether Reevestock 2017 Fri August recreational or elite. Awards will be 4th–Sat 5th Reevestock is a music given to top finishers in each class. festival located in the heart of www.noc.com Elkin, North Carolina. With a ver y successful inaugural year Cycle NC Mountain Ride Sat at Reevestock 2011, the festival August 5th–Mon 7th Bryson City, NC is back to continue its mission, 28713. Join us for a weekend full of o n l y b i g g e r a n d b e t t e r ! We amazing road biking and endless ophope to see you all for a great portunities to “play outside.” Bryson day of music, friends, and fun! City will provide you with a variety of www.reevestock.com cycling options, unique experiences and spectacular mountain views.

Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair Fri The routes are a perfect fit for road A u g u s t 4 t h – S a t 5 t h 1 0 1 To w n bikes as well as most tandems, Square, Burnsville, NC 28714. 200 trikes and hybrids and are suitable juried craf ters with handmade for intermediate to experienced potter y, jewelr y, rustic furniture, cyclists. If you are feeling adventurblacksmiths, candles, and artwork ous, some routes even include

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Destinations gravel grinder sections as well as a scenic train ride to the start point. www.cnc.ncsports.org Miss May’s Garden Tea Sun August 6th 2pm–4pm Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. A tea party honoring Miss May Davidson, benefactress of the Rural Hill Cultural Center. Light hors d’oeuvres, along with teas and lemonade will be the fare of the day.

Dress in your tea finery (hats are encouraged, gloves are optional).

Proceeds from Miss May’s Summer Tea will support Auxiliary projects at Rural Hill. www.ruralhill.net 42nd A n nua l Wa ldensia n Fe st i v a l Fri August 11th–Sat 12th Downtown, 100 Main St Continued On Page 8

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LIVE MUSIC Wednesday Thru Sunday www.drinklivemusic.com

Trivia Trivia Every Every Tuesday Tuesday nd nd & 4thth Mondays Bingo 2 Bingo 2 & 4 Mondays

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Destinations Continued From Page 7

W, Valdese, NC 28690. The 2017 Waldensian Festival will concentrate on unique crafts, great food, and top-quality entertainment. www.9nl.it/waldensianfestival Fine A rts & Master Crafts Festival Fri August 11th–Sun 13th 185 Azalea Cir SE, Banner Elk, NC 28604. This juried festival features hand-crafted wares from more than 90 vendors. Photography, paintings, jewelr y, sculpture & potter y are just some of the crafts that will be offered. www.averycounty.com Lake Lure Olympiad Summer Sports Festival Fri August 11th– Sun 13th 112 Mountain Blvd, Lake Lure, NC 28746. Choose to compete in multiple race events including the Lake Lure Triathlon sprint, a Junior Olympiad for the kidos, 10K Dam Run, Race to the Rock bike and run events and the USMS Open Water National Championship. Take the “Ultimate Challenge”- 3 races in 3 days! Plus, there’s plenty to do and see for families and spectators including the opening ceremonies, games and a beer garden sponsored

by Catawba Brewing Company.

View the Olympiad’s promo video online to see what it’s all about! www.lakelureolympiad.com Wrightsville Beach Wahine Classic Sat August 12th South End: Beach Access at the Oceanic Restaurant, 703 S Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480. The Wrightsville Beach Wahine Classic continues to be a beloved Wrightsville Beach surfing tradition. Returning to the south end of Wrightsville Beach, this forum is for all levels of female surfers; amateur to pro and experienced.

Divisions will include: Pro Shortboard and Pro Longboard, open to all ages, and amateur shortboard and longboard, grouped by age.

The popular Stand Up Paddleboard division as well as the crowd favorite Tiny Wahine event will complete the competition. Please check website for updates, registration, and heat schedules. www.wahineclassic.com Shagging at The Rock Sat August 12th 432 The Rock Rd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Don’t miss this first time ever special event! See details on the 2017 Music Festivals page. www.theblowingrock.com Continued On Page 10

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Regional Events & Destinations

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Miss May’s Garden Tea

Sunday, August 6 from 2 - 4 pm Light hors d’oeuvres, teas and lemonade will be the fare of the day.

Amazing Maize Maze Fri.-Sun. Sept. 9th - Nov. 5th

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Destinations Continued From Page 8

A nnual Blue Ridge Brutal 100 Bike Race Sat August 12th 8am–3pm 962 Mt Jefferson Rd, West Jefferson, NC 2869. The Blue Ridge Brutal is not for the faint hearted!

However, you can mix the strenuous pain with the joy of riding through some of the most beautiful scenery in North Carolina which, we believe, makes these rides some of the most spectacular you’ll find. This ride tours Ashe and Alleghany counties and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Beginning and ending in front of the Ashe Civic Center, in the shadow of Mount Jefferson, the ride offers 100 miles of varied and challenging terrain. The Blue Ridge Brutal features three ride options: 57 miles, 75 miles and 100 miles, each with various elevation changes. www.blueridgebrutal.org Festival of Food Trucks Sat August 12th 5pm–8:30pm N Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115. Gourmet Fare (from a bunch of trucks).

North Main Street (between Moore Avenue & Iredell Avenue) from 5-8:30pm. Main Street from Moore Avenue to Iredell Avenue will be closed for the event, so bring a chair, hang out in the street and stay a while so you can check

out these awesome Food Trucks from around the area, taste some gourmet fare, listen to some music, stroll the streets & shop. All Happening in Downtown Mooresville. www.downtownmooresville.com Grow n and Gathered Sat August 12th 7pm–9pm Washington St, Eden, NC 27288. Grown and Gathered, a farm to fork experience.

Enjoy a dinner from the bounty of our local farms and producers prepared by Chefs Ross and Amy Hammond. $50 per person or $90 per couple. Dinner includes two drinks; a local, handmade, pottery plate; and live music with your meal. www.edennc.us Wyndham Championship Tue August 15th–Mon 21st Sedgefield Countr y Club, 3201 Forsyth Dr, Greensboro, NC 27407. The Wyndham Championship was founded in 1938 and is the sixth-oldest event on the PGA Tour, excluding the majors. The tournament’s rich history includes such former winners as Sam Snead, Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Gary Player and Seve Ballesteros. In fact, 17 former winners are members of the World Golf Hall

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations of Fame. The Wyndham Championship is the only regular season PGA Tour event contested on a course originally designed by Donald Ross. www.wyndhamchampionship.com 43rd Annual NC State Bluegrass Festival Thu August 17th–Sat 19th Tom Johnson’s Camping Center, 1885 US-70, Marion, NC 28752. Outdoor festival and concert series, bring your chairs and stay a while. This year’s featured artists include Dailey & Vincent, Gene Watson & Rhonda Vincent and Mike Snider (Grand Ole Opr y). www.adamsbluegrass.com

Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic Sat August 19th–Sun 20th Grandfather Mountain, Linville, NC 28646. Top photographers gather to present on the nuts and bolts of making good photographs.

This event is free to working members of the press, with an additional cost for non-press professionals and amateurs. www.grandfather.com Mercedes Benz Auto Show Sat August 26th 10am–6pm Shelton Vineyards, 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson, NC 27017. Come out and join us for the Annual Mercedes Benz Auto Show! There will be something for everyone to enjoy from vintage Continued On Page 12

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Destinations Continued From Page 11

models to newer, modified varieties.

Enjoy a glass of award-winning Shelton Vineyards wine while strolling through the grounds, viewing these beautiful and unique cars. www.sheltonvineyards.com Charlotte Antique & Classic B o a t S h ow S a t A u g u s t 2 6 t h 10am–4pm Trump National Golf Club, 137 Vestal Dr, Mooresville, NC 28117. The Charlotte Antique & Classic Boat Show showcases some truly unique boats. If you are fascinated by the design of old classic boats or your passion is restoring antique boats, then this is the show you do not want to miss. This event features beautifully restored wooden-hulled vintage boats on public display that will be judged. Starting at noon on Saturday, the show will feature the Ladies and Gentlemen “Start Your Engines” classic and antique boat parade which is always a fun event for the entire family.

Who knows what types of vintage pieces might show up this year! www.longinodist.com

Destination Paradise ~ The B i g B a d B e a c h B a s h! S a t August 26th 7pm–Sun 27th 2am 3925 Kivett Dr, Jamestown, NC 27282. With 11 different themed bars/destinations to choose from, The Big Bad Beach Bash has something for everyone! If you like hot club beats or a more modern sound, we’ve got you covered!

If you like Jamaica, we got that too! If Jimmy Buffett is more your style, come visit Margaritaville and stay for a while! And, if shagging is your thing, come shag the night away with The Chairman Of The Board playing live! This is THE party all your friends will be talking about! So don’t miss North Carolina’s biggest, baddest, Beach Bash going down here. www.TheCastlePresents.com G r e e n s b o r o Fo o d Tr u c k Fe st i v a l Sun August 27th 4pm–10pm W Market St & S Greene St, Greensboro, NC 27401.

Our August event will feature over 50 food trucks from all over N C , c r a f t b e e r, N C f i n e w i n e , craft vendors and kid’s activities, street performers and live music. greensborofoodtruckfestivals.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations 71st Annual North Carolina Apple Festival Fri September 1st–Sun 3rd S Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792. The NC Apple Festival features a street fair on historic Main Street including continuous live musical entertainment, arts & crafts, apple growers selling apple products, children’s & youth activities, special exhibits & open houses, and food. To top it all off, on Labor Day, the King Apple Parade takes place. No pets allowed. Check our website for specific hours and schedule of events. www.ncapplefestival.org

Beech Mountain Mile High K ite Fest iva l Sat September 2nd–Sun 3rd 400 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604.

The 13th annual Mile High Kite & Craf t Festival takes place in the town meadow. L ocated at more than 5,000 ft. in elevation, the meadow makes it easy to sail kites more than a mile above sea level. The free festival weekend includes open kite flying Saturday afternoon and an all-ages street dance that evening.

On Sunday, prizes are awarded for the biggest kite, smallest kite and best decorated kite. www.beechmountainresort.com Continued On Page 30

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waldensianfestival.com 888-VALDESE Regional Events & Destinations

It’s Like You Own The Mountain Grandfather Mountain Camera Clinic Returns Aug. 19-20

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mateur and professional photographers can now register for the Grandfather Mountain Camera Clinic, a two-day seminar that offers presentations from outstanding photojournalists and opportunities for participants to improve their skills.

The clinic, set for Aug. 19 and 20, also allows participants the rare opportunity of photographing scenic Grandfather Mountain at dawn and dusk, along with chances to network with others interested in the craft.

Admission for all others is $50 and includes a buffet dinner on Saturday.

Basic campsites are available in the Grandfather Mountain Woods Walk Picnic Area for those participating in the clinic.

For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call Frank Ruggiero at (828) 733-2013.

“The Camera Clinic is definitely one of the highlights of the year for those who love not only p h o t o g r a p h y, b u t s h o o t i n g a t Grandfather Mountain,” said Frank Ruggiero, director of marketing and communications for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the nonprofit organization that oversees the Linville, N.C., nature preser ve and attraction. “Even those outside the photojournalism field will find these presentations enlightening and educational.”

Admission to the event is free for working photojournalists and active members of the N.C. Press Photographers Association.

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Nuts About Outdoors

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hen it’s hot outside, do you seek shelter in the local mall, or do you take your game to a new level, say about 3,000ft? If you answered yes to the second question, we have a destination that is just as nuts about the outdoors as you are!

Plumtree NC (just up the road from Linville Falls) offers zip lines, river tubing, disc golf, hiking, fishing waterfalls, true riverside dining, a brewer y, a cider works, lodging, camping, cabins and locally sourced dining experience. Where is the best place in Plumtree to find all this?

Well it’s Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge of course.

A beautiful drive from any location Blind Squirrel Brewer y & Lodge is a decompression destination. When you walk in the lodge you will be greeted with a warm smile and a cold craft beverage brewed steps away from where you are standing. The smile comes naturally, the beverage you’ll have to order for yourself. You are probably a little hungry from your trip up, so please feel free to order a quick bite from the menu, but not too much if you intend to float

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down the river, play a round or two of disc golf or tackle the canopy tour.

I recommend anything that comes with the beer cheese!

Now Earl (the blind squirrel) has found a certain order to the universe, and here it is. Sample your flight of beer before you disc golf and tube so you know what to bring with you, and you must sample your flight of beer after you fly through the trees on your canopy tour. Earl is very wise and focused, have you ever heard a squirrel being distracted by a human?

After you wrap up your activities head back up to the lodge to grab a table inside the restored lodge built in 1919 or weather permitting, the riverside deck.

The food is locally sourced and excellent! The most common dishes

Regional Events & Destinations

are executed with perfection. Two of our favorites are the cheeseburger wrap, and the trout po’ boy.

Once you have realized that you just don’t want to go home yet, Earl has you covered. Select accommodations ranging from cozy rooms in the main lodge to camping and cabins at the farm retreat just up the road. If you are part of a group, ask about the special accommodations available at the Elk Mountain Lodge.

Blind Squirrel Brewer y & Lodge is the destination for the decompression weekend you have been thinking about for months.

Beautiful views, actively participate or kick back and relax. You’ll be nuts about the outdoors too.

Please contact our Taproom and Lodge for tubing reservations and information.

Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge 4716 South US Hwy 19E, Plumtree, NC 28664 www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com Phone: 828-765-2739

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Family History In Every Bottle At South Mountain Distillery

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f authenticity is a key ingredient in making moonshine, then Don Smith is in good shape with region and moonshine hotbed in his new venture, South Mountain southern Burke County where Smith Distilling Company. was raised. Distillery visitors get an oral history of the South Mountains Smith, who comes from a long as part of their tour and tasting. line of moonshiners in the hills and “I try to educate people, starting with hollers of Burke County, pours his the history of the South Mountains,” family history into every bottle. The Smith says. “I talk about the Scottish main difference is he does it legally. and Irish immigrants who came down from Ellis Island and brought “It’s part of my family heritage distilling. I also tell them a little about a n d g o e s b a c k a t l e a s t f o u r the gold rush. The South Mountains generations on the illegal side,” were part of the gold rush in North says Smith, who owns the distillery Carolina, before it went to Georgia with his wife, Dawn. “I actually and then to California.” found a newspaper article where my grandfather and great uncle got Each tour concludes with caught back in 1956.” a tasting of Table Rock Rum, a tribute to Burke County’s signature The centerpiece is “Ole Bessie,” mountain, and a tasting of Jasper a 200-gallon American-made still Shine, made from the recipe of named for Smith’s grandmother, Jasper Triplett, grandfather of local Bessie Smith. It replicates the triple c o u n t r y m u s i c s t a n d o u t C h a d distillation process used by his Triplett. forefathers.

State law allow guests to Ole Bessie currently produces purchase one bottle of spirits per two spirits: Jasper Shine and Table year at the distillery. They can also Rock Rum. By year ’s end, those purchase South Mountain Distilling two labels will be joined by a pair products at ABC stores throughout of whiskeys: Sinister and Dignified. North Carolina.

South Mountain Distilling Company draws its name from the nearby South Mountains, a rugged

For distillery information, call 828-368-0681 or visit: www.SouthMountainDistillery.com.

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Regional Events & Destinations

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The Best Hikes In Gaston

Part Deux Whitewater Views he USNWC ’s 37-mile trail network is pretty equally divided between novice, moderate, and strenuous trails.

The easy Lake Loop opens up for water views while the Channel Loop circumvents the man-made whitewater rivers for a front-row view of the class I-IV whitewater action. Moderate South Main and North Main Trails parallel the Catawba River, so keep an eye out for the great blue heron and osprey nesting along the riverbank. Expert loops like Carpet, Figure 8, and Goat Hill will keep you so busy with heartpounding climbs and descents that you probably won’t notice the view, but you’ll love the workout.

T

George Poston Park Nestled against yet another Gaston County monadnock, Spencer Mountain, George Poston Park’s five interconnected loops cover more than 10 miles and get increasingly more challenging the deeper you hike into the heavily forested trail system. Start out from the Lake Loop trailhead and work your way to the tougher climbs of the Big Leaf and Spencer Mountain Loops for as much distance and elevation as you’d like.

On weekends, holidays, and festival days, the USNWC parking lot can fill up early. Check the online calendar to see what’s going on that day and plan accordingly. Great news for the future—there’s talk of expanding the USNWC trail network to 50 miles by 2018 and 100 miles within a few years. Nothing’s for Hiking through History certain but you gotta love where The Carolina Thread Trail’s they’re going with this. growing footprint in Gaston County includes two forest strolls that will

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Regional Events & Destinations

take you back to a time when the landscape was dotted with trade footpaths and rural villages. The four mile out-and-back South Fork River Trail was first used by the Native Americans and winds its way along the protected banks of the South Fork River. Ferguson and Pinhook textile mills were located on the river in the 1800s so keep an eye out for remnants still visible from the trail.

The Seven Oaks Preserve Trail covers over five out-and-back miles along the shores of Lake Wylie.

The lowland swamp habitat makes for particularly interesting flora amidst swamp chestnut oaks, tulip poplars, paw paws, and persimmon trees. You may catch sight of an osprey, eagle, or kingfisher circling overhead. Past inhabitants of the area used marsh grasses to weave

sweetgrass baskets, still a signature craft in the region today.

In the mood for a dirt-under-yourfingernails, knee-to-chin scramble?

Gaston’s got that. Feeling more like a meditative stroll through the forest?

Gaston’s got that, too. Stock your day pack and get to the trailhead early to make the most of your day on Gaston County’s trails.

Written by RootsRated for Gaston County Gov. Photos by Ann Gibson Gaston County is located just west of Charlotte, NC in the Piedmont section of North Carolina and is a terrific place to live, work and visit. Gaston County offers visitors a variety of attractions to enhance your trip including museums, botanical gardens, extreme sports, hiking, dining and entertainment parks, art and history and more. www.go2gaston.org

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Midway BoatHouse Grill Decompression Destination

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idway Marina, home of the “Midway’s Boat House Grill” was one of the oldest boat havens on Lake Norman was re-discovered by the Lancaster brothers – Freddie, Jeff and Mark and they have turned it into Lake Norman’s favorite family-style restaurant. From the incredible breakfast like the Liver mush, egg and cheese biscuit, to the daily specials of Meatloaf, homemade onion rings and vegetables that takes you into dinner or should I say supper. Oh, and who could forget about dessert with all those flavors of DeLuxe Ice Cream!

The Lancasters are all about family. Their grandfather, Tommy, a merchant in eastern North Carolina, was known for giving candy to local orphans, who nicknamed him Big Daddy. In 1962 he opened his first restaurant and called it Big Daddy’s, in 1973 he bought a restaurant at Lake Norman and also, called it Big Daddy’s. Tommy retired in 1981, his son Bud – Mark, Freddie and Jeff ’s dad – continued to operate Big Daddy’s and also developed Skipper’s Marina. Meanwhile, Jeff opened his first restaurant in 1986. Mark, moved to Lake Norman in 1986 to begin his construction business, and after Bud The Midway Boathouse Grill died in 1997, Freddie continued to combines the best of the old and operate Big Daddy’s. new by getting a makeover to resemble an old boathouse with an “Since our dad died, we’ve grown A-frame design and tin roof. Offering even closer than before,” Mark says. great food in a casual atmosphere, “With our sister, Sherri (owner of and Lake Norman charm!

Chameleon Studio) We work hard together and play hard together. And Whether your coming in off Hwy we’re all looking forward to having 150, or your boat you will want to our children one day take over the come hang out with the crew of the businesses.”

–Niki L. Young Boat House. On the weekends as well we have picnic tables by the Drive, walk, bike, or boat - there water so you can sit and enjoy a are many ways to get to the beer and a burger. The atmosphere Boathouse Grill on Lake Norman is definitely family-oriented.”

Midway Boathouse Grill 8693 Highway 150 East in Terrell. lknmidwayboathousegrill.com

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Celebrating Eden’s Art, History & River Heritage Friday 5-10 and Saturday 10-10 in

2 stages of live music both days, featuring headliners

Trial by Fire

A Journey Tribute

Friday, 7-10

and On the Border

The Ultimate Eagles Tribute

Saturday, 7:30-10

Dan River Basin Association Exhibit & Activities Carolina Raptor Center featuring a bird release North Star Bloodhounds Gravity Ball Knockerball Archery Games Gem Sluice Melanie Paschal’s Dance Creations Get on the River with Three Rivers Outfitters Interactive Arts & Amusements for Children More than 100 Artisans & Crafters And much more, including one of our newest editions - a Lumber Jack Show!

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FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT CITY OF EDEN TOURISM COORDINATOR CINDY ADAMS AT 336-612-8049 or CADAMS@EDENNC.US www.EXPLOREEDENNC.com

Regional Events & Destinations

Stroll Down Memory Lane In Revamped Griffith Museum

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he Andy Griffith Museum has reopened following a “Many people don’t realize renovation of more than half a the depth of his career – he was million dollars that touched on every a comedian, Grammy-winning aspect of the popular attraction. musician, Broadway actor, and a movie star from the 1950s until just The revamped visitor experience prior to his death in 2012.” takes guests on a stroll with Andy through various stages of his Although the museum focuses on life. Exhibits, built in the form of Griffith’s entire life and not just The storefronts, memorialize a particular Andy Griffith Show, there are plenty aspect of Griffith’s long-reaching of items from the famous television career. And each exhibit is populated series. Folks can see Andy’s sheriff from a trove of more than 1,000 shirt, the gavel and eagle from his pieces of memorabilia collected by desk, both sets of jail cell keys, the late Emmett Forrest, a life-long Barney Fife’s salt-and-pepper suit friend of Griffith. worn on dates with Thelma Lou, the suit of town drunk Otis, and Goober The museum closed for the Pyle’s bronzed beanie. project on April 7 and reopened to the public on June 29. Tanya Jones The newest item on display is a of the Surry Arts Council led the drive neatly pressed white suit worn by to build the museum in 2009. She Griffith in Brad Paisley’s “Waitin’ on said the plan was always to renovate a Woman” video in 2008. with professional exhibits once the museum was established.

Exhibit designer was Mark Meagher of Nashville, while “The concept is strolling through another Nashville resident, Jim Mayberr y and various phases of C l a r k , p r e s i d e n t o f T h e A n d y Andy’s life,” Jones says. “You begin Griffith Show Rerun Watchers Club, with the Snappy Lunch showcasing conceptualized the design and his early years, then you move handled content. Studio Displays to the Earle Theatre featuring is Inc. in Charlotte built the displays movie clips. Next is Floyd’s Barber and LKC Creative of Raleigh did the Shop, followed by Emmett’s Fix-It audio/visual stations.

Shop. The Mayberr y Courthouse & Jail is the centerpiece. There’s For museum information, call also a Hollywood display, musical 336-786-7998, or go to: recordings and a Matlock exhibit. www.andygriffithmuseum.com.

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Slide Down Nature’s Perfect Waterslide

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ith a 60-foot trip down a natural rock waterslide to reach the seven-foot deep pool at the bottom, Sliding Rock isn’t your average swimming hole. From M e m o r i a l D a y t o L a b o r D a y, visitors can enjoy the thrill of being whisked down the slide by 11,000 gallons of mountain stream water under the watchful eye of Forest Ser vice lifeguards.

Watching can be nearly as much fun as sliding, and you never know who you’ll spot from the two obser vation platforms – during the summer of 2014, Transylvania County is located in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, about half way between Asheville, North Carolina and Greenville, South Carolina. The county seat is Brevard, NC. The Transylvania County Courthouse, located in the heart of Brevard, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

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Hollywood star Owen Wilson was seen sliding during a break from filming Masterminds in the Asheville area. Located in Pisgah N a t i o n a l Fo r e s t j u s t n o r t h o f Brevard, Sliding Rock is just one of 250 cascades waiting to be explored in Transylvania County.

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

AUGUST 27

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-10

AND ART ON ELM

Presented by

New Bikes, New Exhibits, New Fun!

Maggie Valley, NC

Wheels Through Time Museum

62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

(828) 926-6266

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LKNBrewersTrail.com

LKNBT

Your single source for what is going on at participating breweries in the Lake Norman area.

Whats On Tap Whats Going On How To Get There

BAYNE BREWING COMPANY Bayne Brewing Company offers several different types of craft beer in Cornelius, NC. The selections will rotate based on the season and availability of certain ingredients. Each beer hand crafted in small batches with great attention to detail. They offer some the best craft beers in the state, so come on in and give them 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 their neighborhoods, to their first location’s humble one-barrel beginnings, intense local thirst for the Fanatical Ales™ propelled them to open their current 30 barrel production brewery. D9 is reimagining some of the world’s most unique and trusted styles of beer.

GHOSTFACE BREWING Ghostface offers 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.

Davidson Pizza Company is always serving on site and you can find out for yourself which house-brewed cold draft pairs best with a New York Style Cheese Pie. 427 East Statesville Ave. Mooresville, NC 28115 704.799.7433 ghostfacebrewing.com

11138 Treynorth Dr Cornelius NC 28031 704.457.9368 d9brewing.com

Digital content is available on desktop,Regional tablet and phone& Destinations 28 Events

Etowah Valley Celebrates 50 Years Of Golf At The “Brickyard”

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golf course that sprang from unique beginnings celebrates its 50th anniversar y this summer.

hit the ball much farther. But Ault designed the original 18 holes at nearly 7,000 yards, which remains a stout number to this day, and the third nine is a respectable 3,318 yards Etowah Valley Golf & Resort, in length. which transformed the hardscrabble terrain of a brick mining operation “Most people think when i n t o a p o p u l a r m o u n t a i n g o l f they come to the mountains they destination, opened to much praise are going to play a real hilly golf July 8, 1967. Architect Edmund Ault course, but we’re in a valley here,” designed a long and challenging says Merrick. “And we’ve got three 18-hole layout and crafted nine more different nines. Our South Nine is holes in 1988. relatively flat, but tree-lined and very challenging. Then our West Nine is The resort now spreads across kind of rolling hills and a little bit 246 manicured acres with 27 holes wider in the fairways and a little of golf, 65 lodge rooms, three bit longer. Then we have the North restaurants, a 200-seat banquet Nine built in the late 1980s that is a facility and a 200-seat outdoor little shorter, but hillier with smaller pavilion. greens and a totally different look.”

The biggest improvements people will notice this 50th summer involve course conditions, accommodations and guest service.

Of course, the main attraction at Etowah Valley is the course itself.

Most layouts built a half century ago have become outdated by modern technology that allows golfers to

The course, located just outside Hendersonville in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, was developed on the site of a former brick mining operation. It opened for play July 8, 1967, and has since grown to 27 holes with 65 lodge rooms overlooking the course, plus three restaurants and heated swimming pool.

For information about tee times or stay-and-play packages, call 828-891-7022 or go to www.EtowahValley.com.

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Destinations Continued From Page 13

7th A nnual John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival Sat September 2nd 3pm–11pm 1841 Eastchester Dr, High Point, NC 27265. This music festival emanates relaxing ambiance because of its choice location. You can’t help but relax when you’re at Oak Hollow Festival Park in High Point. It is one of the best settings for music festivals. Then, there’s food galore.

There is also a ver y special positive atmosphere that permeates throughout the crowd. It’s the people factor. The people who attend are one of the best features o f t h e C o l t r a n e J a z z Fe s t i v a l . www.coltranejazzfest.com Historic Morganton Festival Fri Sep 8th - Sat 9th 112 W Union St, Morganton, NC 28655. Hundreds of vendors will fill the streets selling their crafts and other wares; the kid and teen zone will offer entertainment and activities for youngsters; and plenty of festival food will be available for visitors to enjoy, along with the beer garden located near the Coors Light Stage. www.downtownmorganton.com Rural Hill A mazing Maize Maze Starts Sat Sepember 9th–Fri-Sat-Sun thru Nov 5th 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078.

T h i s Fa l l s t a r t i n g S e p t e m b e r 9th through November 5th!

There’s more than enough fun and confusion for all! Get lost in our giant seven-acre corn maze featuring over two miles of inter connecting paths. One of the largest in the Southeast, our maze is sure to please! The

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whole of Rural Hill’s 265 acres is available to you and your group during maze hours–take a hayride around the farm, play a round of corn-hole, explore our historic site, play in our mini-mazes, have a picnic, hike our trails, pick a pumpkin (in October,) & much, much more! www.ruralhill.net RiverFest Fri September 15th–Sat 16th 1010 Washington St, Eden, NC 27288. RiverFest is a celebration of Eden’s art, histor y and river heritage. This annual event takes place in the Old Leaksville Shopping District on Washington Street – our oldest downtown area that dates back to 1797. Enjoy two stages of live music, lots of great food, over 100 artisans and crafters, interactive activities for the kids, King BMX Stunt Show, a Trick Roper and so much more!! w w w. e x p l o r e e d e n n c . c o m / riverfest/ Lincoln County Apple Fe st i v a l Sat September 16th Downtown, Main Street. Regional crafts, food, kids activities, agricultural exhibits, live music, farmer ’s market and, or course, local apples by the bag or bushel.

It’s an alcohol-free event with something for ever yone, and it’s absolutely free. Enjoy the hospitality that is Lincoln County. For more information, visit our website at LincolnCountyAppleFestival.com

We Tell You Where To Go! Regional Events & Destinations

1226 MORLAND DRIVE • STATESVILLE NC 28677

704.872.3883 • WWW.TILLEYHD.COM

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HOT FOOD • MUSIC • CORNHOLE • DOOR PRIZES • AUCTION

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TILLEY BIKE NIGHTS AT LANCASTER’S MOORESVILLE EVERY WEDNESDAY 5:30PM UNTIL TILLEY’S BIKE NIGHT AT KICK BACK JACK’S theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365 EXIT 36 MOORESVILLE! 6:30 - 10PM.

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HUNTERSVILLE

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9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

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