Issue 107 February the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 107 Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences Off The Beaten Path

In This Issue

Shared Destinations We Tell You Where To Go!

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

BESTOW

In 1991, Daniel J. Stowe, a retired textile executive from Belmont, North Carolina, generously preserved 380 acres of prime rolling meadows, woodlands and lakefront property to establish and develop a world-class botanical garden which is named in his honor, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

That’s

ORIGINAL GASTON

704-825-4044 | GoGastonNC.org/OG

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February 2020 Issue 107

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, destinations and experiences in the Destination Magazine™ that will give you memories for a lifetime The Destination Magazine™ is about new destinations and experiences to discover on your own, or outings with friends and family. We hope you will find a new memorable experience ever y month in the Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Magic Table Media Group LLC Business Development: Lisa Jay Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara McMillan, Leah Hughes, Kate Gavenus, Tory Mabe, Morrisa Angi, Josie Jenkins, Angela Allen, Ariel Feige, Thomas Lark Contributing Photographers: Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Paul Newton, Sam Dean, Ellie McKinney Photography, Todd Bush Cover: Stokes County, Ellie McKinney Photography 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 Magic Table Media Group LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summer field, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMagazine.com ©2020 All rights reserved. Magic Table Media Group LLC, 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 manmade disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

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Contents DayTrip Destinations

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Flat Rock Playhouse Puts On The Hits In 2020

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To Blossom With Festivities And Flowers

12

Beech Mountain’s 9th Annual Retro 80’s Weekend

14

Snuggle Up In The Sauratown Mountains

16

Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes

18

Find That Perfect Wedding Destination

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Guidon Brewing Company

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Black History Month In Goldsboro Wayne County

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Haze Gray Vineyards Sets Sail In Yadkin Valley Wine Country

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Sideways Farm & Brewery Cultivates A Different Way Forward 26 Take A FREE Tour Of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base!

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BRUNCH! Food Truck Rally

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Celebration Of All Things Celtic!

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Keller & the Keels at Beech Mountain Ski Resort February 1, 2020, 8:00 PM 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, NC 28604 www.beechmountainresort.com

W i n e & We l l n e s s , H e a r t H e a l t h ! Fe b r u a r y 2 0 , 6 : 0 0 pm - 8:00 pm Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery State Road, NC www.grassycreekvineyard.com

Pickin At Priddys With Grace & Grass February 7, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Priddy ’s General Store, 2121 Sheppard Mill Rd Danbury, NC 27016 www.priddysgeneralstore.com

Pilot Mountain Marathon and 20k February 22, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Pilot Mountain State Park, Pilot Knob Park Rd Pilot Mountain, NC 27043

4th Annual Big Elkin BrrrFest Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 2 0 , 1 1 : 0 0 A M - 4:00 PM Coley Hall at The Liberty 222 E Main St Elkin, NC 28621 www.bigelkinbrewfest.com Va l e n t i n e ’s C h o c o l a t e & Wine Tasting Februar y 14, 15 & 16, 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm Grove Winery & Vineyards, 7360 Brooks Bridge Rd Gibsonville, NC 27249 www.grovewinery.com B e M y Va l e n t i n e D i n n e r Fe b r u a r y 1 4 & 1 5 , 4 : 0 0 p m 7:00 pm Chez Josephine, 493 Brewer Mill Road Traphill, NC 28685 www.roaringrivervineyards.com

All-U-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast February 22, 9:00 am - 10:30 am Beech Mountain Buckeye Recreation Center, 1330 Pine Ridge Rd Beech Mountain, NC 28604 beechmtn.com Greensboro Wine And C h o c o l a te Fe s t i v a l Fe b r u ar y 22, 1:00 pm Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W Gate City Blvd Greensboro, NC 27403 wineandchocolatefestivals.com The 2020 Mardi Gras Masquerade! February 29, 8:00 pm - 2:00 am 3925 Kivett Dr. Jamestown, NC 27282 www.thecastlepresents.com

A n Even in g w it h t he Blue D ogs Febr uar y 29, 8:00 pm HOPEFEST – A Live Music Event 11:00 pm Reeves Theater & Cafe, February 15, 11:30 am - 5:00 pm City 129 W Main St Elkin, NC 28621 of Morganton Municipal Auditorium, www.reevestheater.com 401 South College Street Morganton, NC 28655 www.eventbrite.com 2020 Gra nv ille A mbula nce Chase & Food Truck Rodeo Retro ’80s Weekend Febr u- M a r c h 7 , 1 1 : 0 0 a m - 2 : 0 0 p m ar y 20, 9:00 am - Februar y 23, Oxford Historic District (Oxford, 9 : 0 0 p m B e e c h M o u n t a i n S k i North Carolina) Oxford, NC US R e s o r t , 1 0 0 7 B e e c h M o u n t a i n www.visitgranvillenc.com Parkway Beech Mountain, NC 28604 www.beechmtn.com 2020 Celtic Festival March 14, 10:00 am - Mar ch 15, 4:00 pm

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Destinations Historic L atta Plantation, 5225 Sample Rd Huntersville, NC 28078 www.lattaplantation.org Asheboro Food Truck Festival Mar ch 21, 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm Bicentennial Park, 135 Sunset Avenue Asheboro, NC 27203 GreensboroFoodTruckFestivals.com

HOME GAMES FRI FEB 7 7:35PM

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events

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Discover Totally Fly events in Goldsboro at visitgoldsboronc.com/events, or on Facebook events @visitgoldsboronc. visitgoldsboronc.com I 919 734 7922

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Retro 80’s Ski Weekend

February 20th at Frazier’s

BLUE MONDAY

February 22nd at the Beech Mountain Taproom

a tribute to the MTV generation

February 21st at the Beech Mountain Taproom

Same as It Ever Was

The South’s Hottest 1980s Tribute Band

Talking Heads Tribute

80’S Prom • Ski Parade In 80’S Apparel • 80’S Family Fun At The Brick Oven • Cosmic Sledding For Kids • Pancake Breakfast • “Let’s Get Physical” Workout • Kid’s Games • Name That Tune Contest • Kids’ Karaoke & Apparel Contest • Retro 80’S Apparel Contest •Late Night Dance Party • All Day Retro Skiing (Wear 80’S Apparel)

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BeechMtn com 8 F E B R U ALocal R Y& Regional 2 0 - Destinations 2 3 , 2&0Experiences 20

NC CRAFT BEERS // FOOD TRUCKS // LIVE MUSIC

FEBRUARY 8, 2020 – 11AM-4PM The Liberty 222 E. Main Street, Elkin, NC 28621

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Blue Bend Photography

Flat Rock Playhouse Puts On The Hits In 2020

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favorite Blue Ridge Mountain tradition returns this month with the opening of Flat Rock Playhouse’s 2020 season. The playhouse — nicknamed little Broadway in the mountains and officially designated the state theater of North Carolina — brings top-notch musicals, plays and concerts to the small community of Flat Rock just south of Hendersonville.

“Based on ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ it’s a timeless tale that involves the stor y of two gangs on opposite sides of the tracks, which we deal with on a day to day basis around the w o r l d , ” s a y s M a t t h e w G l o v e r, playhouse artistic associate.

The playhouse team built this year ’s “Puttin’ on the Hits” season around two big musicals. “A Chorus Line,” June 12-July 10, makes its playhouse debut, presenting the ups and downs of theater life through s o n g . A n d “ We s t S i d e S t o r y, ” July 17-Aug. 15, retur ns to Flat Rock for the first time in 20 years.

Patrons will enjoy a higherquality sound experience at this year ’s shows thanks to the a d d i t i o n o f a n e w, i n d u s t r y standard soundboard.

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A third musical, “Million Dollar Quartet,” brings more than 20 rock ‘n’ roll hits to the stage.

In addition to Broadway classics, Glover and his team will write and produce two original per for mances. “Autumn at the Opr y,” Oct. 23-Nov. 7, promises

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Photo: James Johnson

plenty of pickin’ and grinnin’.

And the season finale, “A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas,” N o v. 2 7 - D e c . 2 0 , i s a f a v o r i t e holiday tradition.

actors and approximately 20 apprentices. The playhouse team holds local auditions and spends two weeks auditioning talent in New York City.

The lineup also includes Music on the Rock, a series of tribute concerts. Queen kicks o f f t h e s e a s o n Fe b . 1 3 - 2 3 .

Elvis follows in March, then Fleetwood Mac in April and The Rolling Stones in August.

Children particularly enjoy the Studio 52 Family Series, which this year features “Charlotte’s Web” and “ The Hobbit.”

“ What I love about ever yone on staff here is that we all trained and went to school to do what we’re doing,” Glover says. “ We build ever y set piece a n d c o s t u m e h e r e . We a r e locals who moved here specifically to work at the playhouse, and ever yone is 110 percent invested in their craf t.”

Flat Rock Playhouse relies on more than 50 professional

Season tickets and individual shows are on sale now. To purchase, go online to www.

FlatRockPlayhouse.org or call the box office at (828) 693-0731.

Through beer festivals, promotions and other events, we can make this happen. Visit our website to see a schedule of events.

housethatbeerbuilt.com

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To Blossom With Festivities And Flowers

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eadying now for springtime, the City of Belmont in partnership with Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (DSBG) and the Belmont Tourism Development Authority (BTDA) announce a month-long citywide celebration of included as well as the annual blossoming bulbs, art, community Garibaldi Festival. and culture – Belmont Blooms.

Bulbs have been planted from T h e i n a u g u r a l m u l t i - w e e k historic downtown Belmont to Belmont Blooms begins on March DSBG, bringing rich views and 27 with an electric evening parade. festivities to every edge of Belmont.

The new seasonal celebration Additionally, partnerships with unfolds through April 26 across Bel- area businesses and organizations mont, N.C. – a quaint and charming are sowing seeds of collaboration city just west of Charlotte, along the that will allow events to blossom Catawba River. Belmont Blooms beautifully this spring alongside includes blossoming tulips and vibrant views. other spring plants across town as well as family friendly events, “ Va s t p r e p a r a t i o n s a r e live entertainment, art exhibitions, underway for this large-scale celphoto opportunities and more. ebration,” said Patrick Larkin, the Garden’s executive director. “We’re Said City of Belmont Mayor quite excited for the debut and Charlie Martin, “ We’ve collabo- welcoming individuals from across rated to bring a new, energetic the Charlotte metro and beyond to annual celebration to our city. Bel- our area. We’re excited for all of mont Blooms will recognize our the partnerships that have come to flourishing area and the emergence fruition to make this celebration a of spring in the most colorful, lively reality, and are now waiting with display possible.” anticipation for a bright and bold blossom during Belmont Blooms.”

Belmont Blooms will include robust activities across the area, Gaston County offers visitors a such as a Pups and Perennials variety of attractions to enhance weekend at DSBG, a juried art ex- your trip including museums, botanical gardens, extreme hibit, a symphonic band concert, sports, hiking, dining and an Arbor Day Celebration and a entertainment parks, art and Friday Night Live concert on Main history and more. www.gogaston.org Street. Easter festivities are also

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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Beech Mountain’s 9th Annual Retro 80’s Weekend

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he third weekend in Februar y is Beech Mountain’s 9th Annual Retro 80’s celebration, which has been named one of the Top Twenty Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. From Thursday, Februar y 20th through S u n d a y, Fe b r u a r y 2 3 r d , 2 0 2 0 , visitors can take a trip down memor y lane to the decade of wild fashion, like big hair, neon colors, leg war mers, shoulder pads, and unforgettable movies like Ghostbusters and Back to the Future. Be on the lookout for the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man and the Hot Tub Time Machine Bear, as well as lots of locals dressed in 80’s regalia around town, and at the Beech Mountain Resort.

weekend off on Thursday with the 80’s Prom at Frazier ’s Tavern. The cover is $5, and you can compete for 80’s Prom King or Queen. On Friday, re-live the 80’s with Talking Heads cover band, Same As It Ever Was at the Beech This year, the musical lineup M o u n t a i n Ta p r o o m . S a t u r d a y is better than ever, with Blue night’s show will include 80’s M o n d a y k i c k i n g t h e e v e n t music by Cassette Rewind, and

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

a Retro 80’s apparel contest.

L a t e r, a l a t e - n i g h t D J w i l l b e spinning an 80’s dance party in the Taproom. Saturday night’s events will be emceed by Maney, Roy and LauREN, from KISS 95.1.

This year, families will find more activities geared towards them. A DeLorean and the Ghostbusters car will be on display at the Brick Oven, which will host 80’s Family Fun N i g h t o n Fr i d a y f r o m 5 - 7 p m .

The Sledding Hill will be open for kids 12 and under for night sledding from 6:00-8:00 pm. On Saturday, the whole family can eat all the pancakes they want at the pancake breakfast at the Buckeye Recreation Center, and then do a “L et’s Get Physical” w o r k o u t a f t e r w a r d . Fa m i l i e s will also want to be at the Kid’s K araoke and Apparel Contest at the Brick Oven on Saturday from 5-7 pm.

specials of 19.80 for either Thursday night or Sunday night, when added onto a Friday and Saturday night stay. To find the schedule of events or advance tickets for Friday and Saturday night shows, go to www.beechmountainresort. com/event/retro-80s-weekend-2/, Other fun 80’s stuff includes or call us at 828-387-9283 for Friday’s Ski Apparel Parade (meet more information. at the top of the slopes at 3:45

By Kate Gavenus pm) and a Name that Tune contest at the Taproom at 1:00 pm on For more information about this Saturday, finished up on Sunday experience or experiences with retro 80’s skiing all day. Stay visit: www.BeechMtn.com or call (800) 438-2093. for the weekend, with lodging

Inspiration for Living

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Snuggle Up In The Sauratown Mountains

Ellie McKinney Photography

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his Valentine’s Day snuggle up during a romantic weekend in the Sauratown Mountains at Hanging Rock State Park, undoubtedly the crowning jewel of Stokes County. This beautiful park offers something special for each sharing Valentine’s weekend together with campsite or cabin rentals. Visitors looking for a relaxing stroll or Cast Of “Where There’s A Will, There’s A Murder” an exciting, grueling hike with grand vistas or intimate, stunning waterfalls, thick laurel forests or culture with performances, theatre, wide-open meadows, there’s an classes, music events, and more. extensive 20-plus mile trail system that can provide.

On Valentine’s weekend, the Arts Council’s “Winter Dessert Theatre Yo u r r o m a n t i c w e e k e n d i n Series” features a real treat, as you S t o k e s C o u n t y i s n ’ t c o m p l e t e share in the enjoyment of locally without a visit to The Arts Place of prepared desserts and an exciting Stokes on Main Street in Danbury. Murder Myster y entitled “ Where This Regional Art Market features There’s A Will, There’s A Murder.” an ar ray of framed art, prints, Newlyweds, family, friends, cousins, potter y, soaps, jams, children’s the maid, and butler of the luxurious handcraf ted toys and so much estate to which they stay, work to more crafted by local artisans. An find out who has turned their back ideal place to shop and find the on whom during the reading of perfect gift for that special some- famous author “Noone’s” last will one. Experience the local art and and testament.

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Cozy up in an old General Store to experience the way things used to be out in the country on a cold winters night. Pickin’ at Priddy ’s a February tradition continues in 2020 each Friday evening from 7-9pm. Enjoy Live Bluegrass Music inside, while a delicious stew and Bonfire await you outside. Bring your dancing shoes and come ready to shake a leg or shuffle your feet when you tr y the long-time Stokes County tradition of flat footin’. Bluegrass groups performing this month include: Grace & Grass, Henry Mabe & Friends, Denny Alley and the 3 J’s, and Blues Creek.

Locally owned boutique shops in downtown King, NC, are the ideal stop for anyone searching for that perfect locally crafted gift or repurposed item. Along Main Street and Dalton Road, shoppers will find long-standing businesses like Dalton’s Crossing offering quality women’s clothing, stylish accessories, jewelry, soaps, lotions, and more. Or stop into newer shops, including Charli Rose & Co, Gypsy Jayde Boutique, or Southern Ivory – Specializing in gifts, clothing for all body types, tops, bottoms, dresses, outer wear, jewelr y, repurposed, home decor and much more!

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Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes

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he turn in the temperature si gna l s a ne w se a s on on Grandfather Mountain — a nd the return of a ba rga in allowing unlimited access to the park for six months.

Grandfather Mountain without the bustle of spring, summer and fall.

“ Whether your interest is snapping shots of snow-dusted evergreens, sipping soup or hot cocoa from Mildred’s Grill or just The Secret Season Pass allows savoring the solitude, the Secret holders unlimited, six-month ac- Season Pass is the most affordable cess to the park November 2019 through April 2020.

An individual Secret Season Pass costs $32 plus tax for adults — less than the price of two regular tickets. A child’s Secret Season Pass (ages 4 to 12) is $18 plus tax. A group pass, good for up to six people traveling in the same vehicle, sells for $90 plus tax and pays for itself on the first visit.

The pass allows guests to experience the wonders of

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

way to do it,” said Frank Ruggiero, director of marketing and communications for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the nonprofit organization that owns and operates the Linville, N.C., nature park.

Grandfather Mountain is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ever y day in winter, weather per mitting, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. During times of inclement weather, park opening is delayed until all roads and paths can be cleared of snow and ice. As S e c r e t S e a s o n p a s s e s a r e such, those planning a trip are now available at the Grandfather encouraged to contact the park’s Mountain Entrance Gate and are entrance gate before visiting to valid through April 30, 2020. confirm the day ’s conditions.

“Grandfather Mountain becomes a veritable winter wonderland during the colder months,” Ruggiero said. “Rime ice coats the Mile High Swinging Bridge, the otters frolic on their frozen pond, and the mountain itself feels extraordinarily peaceful.”

The not-for-profit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation strives to inspire conservation of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For more information, call 800-468-7325, or visit www. grandfather.com to plan a trip.

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Find That Perfect Wedding Destination

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re you planning a 2020- 2021 wedding? If you are (or hope to), we invite you to be part of the Granville County BOWs Bridal Tour to see what this community just outside of the Triangle has to offer.

From rustic to elegant, outdoor to indoor, you will find something that will help make your wedding day perfect. This year’s tour will take place on Sunday, April 19. The day includes 5 or more venues, meet & greets with local vendors and a goodie bag for VIP registrants.

All you have to do to become a VIP Bride is register yourself and 1 guest, sit back, relax and take a scenic trip of Granville.

The Orpheum at Oxford, a century old theater and one of the most unique wedding venues in North Carolina will serve as the host location.

Please note that tour seating is limited – so preregister to assure your spot!! For more information, visit the tour’s Facebook page at: www.brides-on-wheels.com or call (919) 693-612

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THE TENTATIVE SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY IS AS FOLLOWS:

Sunday, April 19 11:00 am - Early admission to the Orpheum for Brides that have booked to the bridal tour so as to confirm registration and get a head start in visiting with vendors. Additional/ late registration will also take place if seats are available.

11:30 am - Access to tour The Orpheum at Oxford, additional visits with vendors.

1:00 pm - Lifestyle Bus/limo departs from The Orpheum to tour Granville’s other beautiful wedding venues and introduce brides to area vendors. Tour will include: The Oaks at Oxford Carlee Farm Thorndale Oaks Vino Oasi 6:30 pm – Lifestyle Bus arrives back at The Orpheum at Oxford Granville County brings together the best of smalltown living and easy access to metropolitan amenities. www.visitgranvillenc.com

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

TRAIL POST

G

GUIDON BREWING COMPANY

uidon Brewing (pronounced gi-don) is a veteran, American, German, and family owned and operated company dedicated to the art of brewing high quality, carefully craf ted beer. Our combined knowledge of fine quality food and beverages from around the world drives our passion to provide our customers with the same quality we’ve come to know and love.

We a l s o s t r i v e t o p r o v i d e an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere. This is known as Gemutlichkeit, it’s a word that projects a feeling of friendliness, relaxation and cheerfulness.

We a r e a l s o d e d i c a t e d t o helping the environment by eliminating one-time use plastics from our brewery and minimizing our impact on the environment wherever possible.

The Carolina Craft Passport is a reward program to nudge you to get off the well worn path and experience boutique craft beverage destinations across the region.

CarolinaCraftPassport.com

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Black History Month In Goldsboro Wayne County

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ebruar y is a special month.

Black Histor y Month, which runs all through Februar y, is the annual celebration of achievements by African Americans, and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S Histor y. The celebration has extended way beyond the U.S, and other countries including Canada and the United Kingdom, also take part in Black History Month. Since 1976, ever y American president has designated Februar y ’s Black Histor y Month a specific theme.

The theme for 2020 is, “African Americans and the Vote,” paying homage to the passing of the Fif teenth Amendment in 1870 giving black men the right to vote.

A great theme indeed!

we’d share some cool, little known facts about Black Histor y in Goldsboro Wayne County. How many of these did you know?

1 2

Alfonzo “Al” King was the first black Mayor of Goldsboro.

Dorothy Foreman, a 1948 graduate of Dillard High School, served as a Secretary for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Clarence Hodges, a native of Goldsboro, served under President Ronald Reagan’s administration.

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Shirley Middleton was the first black female Clerk in the Wayne County Court House.

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Judge Paul Jones was the first To c e l e b r a t e B l a c k H i s t o r y black appointed and elected Judge Month in Goldsboro, we thought in Wayne County in 1996.

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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Ernestine Wooten was the first black female to serve as Chairman of the Wayne County Democratic Party.

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John Henry Wooten was the first black Chairman of the Wayne County Commissioners.

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Attorney Earl Whitted was the first black person to serve on the Goldsboro Board of Alderman (now City Council).

A n d a l l t h r o u g h Fe b r u a r y, Wayne County Museum in Goldsboro is celebrating Black Histor y Month with their annual Black Histor y Exhibit. Immerse yourself in goods, displays, historical artifacts – and this year, there is a new exhibit dedicated to the “Histor y and Homecoming: The

Legacy of Dillard High School,” which explores the founding and histor y of Dillard High School, and their far-reaching nationwide alumni association.

It promises to be super interesti n g , s o c h e c k i t o u t ! F i n a l l y, make sure you share your photos with us of what you got up to celebrate Black Histor y Month.

Tag photos #visitgoldsboronc and #blackhistor ymonth, and we will share them to our Instagram page!

Nestled in the heart of eastern NC between Raleigh and the coast, we are a destination with rich culture and heritage.

Our heritage has deep military and agricultural roots. And, let’s not forget to mention our legendary BBQ! We sum up ourselves with 4 Ps: pigs, pickles, planes, and poultry! www.visitgoldsboronc.com

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Photo: Sam Dean

Haze Gray Vineyards Sets Sail In Yadkin Valley Wine Country

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aze Gray Vineyards, which draws its name from the color of U.S. naval ships, opened its winery and tasting room on Dec. 19.

Owners Deane and Becky Muhlenberg have long-standing militar y ties, including Deane’s three-decade career as a Navy flight officer.

The tasting room’s wall of honor showcases photos of eight generations of Muhlenberg family members in uniform, and veterans can submit photos of themselves in uniform for the wall. “ We want the tasting room to be a gathering place where people share stories,” Becky says.

“In the world today, people need to stop and get to know each other.”

The Muhlenbergs relocated to Surr y County three years ago from Pennsylvania after finding an 85-acre former corn and tobacco farm just outside Dobson. The property features a nine-acre Haze Gray is under way with vineyard, a meticulously planned five wines available and more to w i n e r y a n d a m o d e r n t a s t i n g come. There are three reds, merlot, room with mountain views. chambourcin and a blend, along with two whites, chardonnay and T h e v i n e y a r d i s a c e r t i f i e d traminette.

Homegrown by Heroes farm, signifying agricultural products Deane, winemaker and vineyard produced by U.S. military veterans. manager, had long dreamed of In addition to Deane’s 30 years running a farm or vineyard folin the Navy, Becky grew up in an lowing his military career and has Army family, and their son currently already taken advantage of classes serves in the U.S. Air Force. available in viticulture and enology

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

at Surr y Community College in also serves wine slushies. Tasting Dobson. room hours are Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, noon-6 “Growing up in the militar y, p.m. A rental cabin overlooking the your family doesn’t make a for- vineyard sleeps four. tune, so we always had a garden,” says Becky, recently retired from For more information, go to an IT career. “We liked the idea of www.HazeGrayVineyards.com or doing something with our hands, call (336) 374-1072. of having to care for the grapes and the wines.”

“One of the most interesting things about the wineries in Surr y County is that each one has its own personality,” says Chris Knopf, Sur r y County manager. “ Visitors get to have a different experience at each winer y and vineyard.”

Haze Gray tastings are $8 and include all five wines. The tasting room

225 S Broad St Mooresville, NC www.GhostfaceBrewing.com

ʼs orths w k Duca Farm Re

www.duckworths.com

Ballantyne Rea Farms Mooresville Huntersville Uptown

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Sideways Farm & Brewery Cultivates A Different Way Forward

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small batch brewer y has taken root in Western North Carolina that brings a different approach to the craft beer scene.

S i d e w a y s Fa r m & B r e w e r y opened this past August in the rural Henderson County community of Etowah. Although surrounded by dozens of craft breweries in the towns of Hendersonville, Brevard and Asheville, the brewery stands out for a farm-based commitment to growing its own ingredients. people to a farm to see where we grow and harvest what goes into A t y p i c a l S i d e w a y s t a s t i n g their beer.” menu features anywhere from 12-14 small batch, seasonal brews The brewery and tasting room highlighting products cultivated on are on an 11-acre site surrounded by property – as well as sourced from crops and a flower garden. local suppliers – by owners Jon and Carrieann Schneider. A sampling The brewery’s name is inspired includes rosemary, figs, lemongrass, by a song of the same title by Carlos pumpkins and sage.

Santana and Citizen Cope. The Schneiders were living in Florida The tasting room experience when Jon began brewing and they stands out as well. Beers are grouped were knocked “sideways” by a into tastings and poured from shared passion for what could be 750-milliliter bottles. The tasting bar, created in the brewing process. made from a black walnut tree on property, is U-shaped and patterned “We like to joke that all of our after the bar at a nearby vineyard. projects go a little sideways on the farm, so the name continues to fit “Our idea is to take beer back us and our exciting adventure,” to its agricultural roots,” Carrieann Carrieann says. says. “Most breweries are set up in For more info, call 828-595-4001 or an industrial area. We want to bring go to www.SidewaysFarm.com.

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Historic Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078

Luxury & Performance at the Lake!

RANDYMARIONCADILLAC.COM Visit Randy Marion Cadillac for all your service, parts and accessory needs

220 W. Plaza Drive I-77, Exit 36, Hwy.150 Open 9 am - 8 pm Weekdays 9 am - 8 pm Saturday

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Take A FREE Tour Of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base!

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ver 2 million people ser ve our countr y in both active and reser ve roles in the militar y each year. A tour to a militar y base can not only give you an appreciation for what these guys and gals do ever y day, but also allow visitors to mar vel at the engineering, admire the leadership and respect traditions.

Seymour Johnson AFB, proud home of the F-15E Strike Eagle and the KC-135 Stratotanker, has become known and awarded as the “Best Air Force Base in the World.”

Housing the largest inventor y of F-15Es in the world, Goldsboro is the hub for training and deploying the nation’s best fighter pilots and weapon systems operators.

most fascinating and vital bases in the armed forces.

Participants enter the airfield gates with the thunderous sounds of F-15E Strike Eagles overhead.

The tour features a close-up look at jets and peak inside a cockpit – and, participants learn facts, such as their engines have the capability of 44,000 pounds of thrust during operations. Plus, it’s highly likely you’ll witness an F-15E Strike Eagle thundering down the runway.

You’ll be able to take pictures, h o w e v e r, b r i n g a n o n - c a m e r a phone – meaning a point-andshoot camera unattached to a cellular device. There will be times when pictures are not allowed, FREE base tours are offered a n d p a r t i c i p a n t s a r e a s k e d t o the last Thursday of ever y month. please be mindful and respectful D u r i n g t h e t o u r, y o u ’ l l l e a r n of the sensitive areas. about the multi-faceted mission of the 4th Fighter Wing and the Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n i s p r o v i d e d 916th Air Refueling Wing, and on an air-conditioned bus, and h o w t h e s e t w o “w i n g s ” m a k e minimal walking is required on Seymour Johnson AFB one of the Continued On Page 30

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Join the Carolina Craft Passport to be eligible for

CRAFTY REWARDS. Featured Destination

BRUNCH! Food Truck Rally

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h e Ru r a l H i l l Fo o d Tr u c k Rally has something for ever yone! On March 22nd 11am – 4pm let your kids run wild in the Kids Zone (fee applies), learn about cooking over an open flame at the historic Rural Retreat Cabin.

Challenge your friends and family to a round of corn hole. Enjoy live music under the stars. Take a scenic and relaxing hayride around the property (fee applies), or hike off any culinary excesses with a quiet hike along our 2.5 mile trail.

Please feel free to bring folding camp chairs, blankets, and pop-up style tents and umbrellas. You may not bring in any outside food or beverage.

Is your favorite truck coming out?

Maybe, if not, we are positive that you’ll find a new contender!

Historic Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 www.ruralhill.net

Guidon Brewing Company Dedicated To The Art Of Brewing High-Quality, Carefully Crafted Beer 415 8th Ave E, Hendersonville, NC 28792

CAROLINA

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Celebration Of All Things Celtic!

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oin us March 14-15 for 2 days of Historic Festivities including.

Celtic Musicians and Dancers, Bagpipers, Celtic Warriors in action.

This year we’re adding more fun to the party with a VIP area in our 200-year old historic Alexander Cabin. This exclusive ticket includes a private Tavern Experience, where you’ll be entertained by musicians and Celtic Warriors and offered a variety of whiskey and other spirits tastings.

Seymour Johnson Continued From Page 28

the tour. Tours begin at 8:30 a.m. and last approximately 3 hours.

We suggest you bring water and a snack. Before heading home, we recommend having lunch at one of our famous BBQ joint on our Brews & ‘Cue Trail.

To secure your spot on one of these FREE, exciting tours, please call the Goldsboro Travel & Tourism office at 919-734-7922 or email aherring@goldsboronc.gov.

When calling or emailing to reserve your spot, our office will provide any other details and directions to SJAFB’s Visitor’s Center, the usual VIP tickets are ONLY available pickup location for the tour. online by pre-sale and are ver y limited.

Nestled in the heart of eastern NC Historic Latta Plantation 5225 Sample Road Huntersville, NC 28078 LattaPlantation.Org

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between Raleigh and the coast, we are a destination with rich culture and heritage. Our heritage has deep military and agricultural roots. And, let’s not forget to mention our legendary BBQ! We sum up ourselves with 4 Ps: pigs, pickles, planes, and poultry! www.visitgoldsboronc.com

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Open

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HUNTERSVILLE

MOORESVILLE

9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

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dinner

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OFF I-77 @ EXIT 33 • 117 TRADE COURT (MOORESVILLE) 7 0 4 7 9 9 1 1 1 0 • www.jeffreyslkn.com