Beverly-Hanks Welcome 2010 by SC Biz News

Welcome to

Western North Carolina

速速

Welcome. It is our privilege to introduce you to the beautiful region of Western North Carolina that we are fortunate enough to call home. We know to truly discover Western North Carolina, one must experience the splendor of our mountains and communities. We are confident that when you do, you will find out why most people who visit here never want to leave. Choosing the right real estate company to assist you with your move to this area is important. You want to be sure you choose the best, and in Western North Carolina that means choosing Beverly-Hanks & Associates. With over 270 full-time, professional sales associates who have the experience and training to handle your specific needs, we have earned a reputation for result-oriented service that no other real estate company in the area can begin to match. If you are a first-time home buyer or an experienced investor, whether you are interested in residential or commercial real estate, our sales associates can assist you. Not only do we know the market, we know the area. We know the schools, the hospitals, the churches, the cultural opportunities, and who to call if you have a problem. We can inform you on taxes, subdivision restrictions, zoning, inspections, and utilities. We can arrange for financing that best suits your needs. We can even arrange for interim financing, if your present home hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sold, or help you find a temporary rental until it does. When it is time to move, we can assist with the movement of your household goods. In short, we can make your move to this area a very pleasant experience. Every year, thousands of buyers and sellers choose Beverly-Hanks & Associates to handle their real estate needs. Many have used our services before, and others are referred from previous customers, from the business community, or from one of the numerous relocation companies who use our services. Regardless of the source, they all come to us for the results-oriented, professional service that has been a hallmark of Beverly-Hanks & Associates, REALTORS since 1976. It is my hope that you will find the information contained in this magazine of assistance in your research of the area. We look forward to the opportunity to be of service to you.

Neal Hanks, Jr. President Beverly-Hanks & Associates

Client Services (866) 858-2257 Asheville (828) 254-7221 North Asheville (828) 251-1800 South Asheville (828) 684-8999 Biltmore Park (828) 684-9020 Hendersonville (828) 697-0515 Lake Lure (828) 625-8846 Waynesville (828) 452-5809

Warm regards,

Weaverville (828) 658-9500

Neal Hanks, Jr.

NAI BH Commercial (828) 210-3940 www.beverly-hanks.com Newcomers guide |

Welcome to Western North Carolina

69 On the cover “Coming Home” is a painting by Ann Vasilik, a well-known regional artist. It was inspired by her first trip through the mountains to Asheville.

| Newcomers guide

Hello!

Contents

Welcome to Western North Carolina.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Education.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Higher Learning.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Health Care.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Business Climate.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 International Destination .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Asheville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Map.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Black Mountain.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Hendersonville.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Fletcher.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Arden | Mills River .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Polk County.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Lake Lure.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Chimney Rock | Bat Cave.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Brevard .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Waynesville | Canton.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Maggie Valley | Cataloochee.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Jackson County | Cashiers.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Weaverville | Barnardsville.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Mars Hill.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Marshall | Hot Springs.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Yancey County.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Sustainable Living.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Sports and Recreation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Golf.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Active Retirement.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Second Homes | Vacation Homes.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Arts and Culture.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Festivals and Events.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Calendar.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Local Attractions.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Getting Started.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Helpful Links.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Welcome to Western North Carolina is printed on NewPage® Tri-certified paper. Environmentally Friendly Vegetable Base inks used for printing.

Welcome

estled amid the peaks and valleys of the Southern Appalachian mountains Western North Carolina has been attracting newcomers for centuries. From the ScotchIrish pioneers who settled here after the Revolutionary War to the rich and famous who came for the region’s healing mountain air during the 1920s, Western North Carolina continues to attract newcomers for its excellent quality of life. Among those drawn here was George Washington Vanderbilt, a millionaire who set out to build a grand estate and named it Biltmore. Opened in 1895, the 250-room home was modeled after 16th century French Renaissance chateaux and featured modern amenities. Today, Biltmore remains the largest home in the country and is one of the top tourist attractions in the state. Beyond Biltmore, the area’s tourism

Welcome to Western NC Fall 2010 | Vol. 6 No.1 Published by SCBIZ News, LLC Corporate and Consumer Publishing Division

Western North Carolina

industry pumps billions of dollars into the regional economy with posh resorts such as the Grove Park Inn and the Inn on Biltmore Estate. With its dynamic Art Deco downtown, Asheville has become a hub for the arts, where galleries adorn its walkable streets and festivals celebrate local artists. Smaller towns such as Hendersonville and Waynesville feature charming downtowns with unique shops, cafes, restaurants and art studios, while more remote areas of Western North Carolina offer a serene escape from the busy urban lifestyle. The natural, untouched beauty of the Pisgah National Forest, Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides a spectacular backdrop to a thriving mountain culture known internationally for its unique folk music, dancing and craft work.

Furthermore, a growing industry of green living – including locally grown food, land conservation and green building – has established the region as one of the most innovative in the country for its sustainable living practices. Western North Carolina includes some of the highest peaks east of the Rocky Mountains and features many of the most scenic drives in the country, including the 250-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds through the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia. Beyond its lovely scenery, the natural setting provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and mountain biking to whitewater rafting and fly-fishing. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home in Lake Lure, an urban condo in downtown Asheville or a sprawling mountain estate, Western North Carolina welcomes you home.

CEO and Publisher Grady Johnson

Art Director S. Kevin Greene

Vice President of Sales Steve Fields

Special Projects Editor Allison Cooke Oliverius

Director of Business Development Mark Wright

Editor Larry Zapf, Beverly-Hanks Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Education

Photo Courtesy of Asheville City Schools

hen moving to a new area, one of the most important considerations is the quality of schools. Newcomers will be happy to know Western North Carolina offers some of the best public and private schools in the state, dedicated to providing a positive and challenging learning environment. The public schools that serve the area include Asheville City Schools, Buncombe County Schools, Henderson County Schools, Haywood County Schools, Madison County Schools, Transylvania County Schools, Jackson County Schools and Yancey County Schools.

Asheville City Schools

Ten schools make up the Asheville City Schools district, including a preschool, middle school, high school, alternative school, five elementary schools and the School of Inquiry and Life Sciences at Asheville (SILSA). Each of the district’s five elementary schools is a designated magnet school: Claxton Elementary is an arts and humanities magnet; Dickson Elementary is an experiential magnet; Hall Fletcher Elementary is a science, math and technologies magnet; Jones Elementary is a global scholars magnet; and Vance Elementary is a human diversity and ecology magnet. Students in the district are able to choose the magnet school that best matches their interests. Parents need to apply for their chosen elementary school by February and are reminded that although every effort is made to appoint students to their school of choice, space is limited and preference is given in order to when the application was received. Asheville Preparatory Academy, part of Asheville City Schools, is an academically rigorous school for students in fifth through eighth grade to help prepare them for high school and college. Asheville Preparatory operates on an extended schedule – running from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during

| Newcomers guide

the week, a five-hour class on Saturdays and a month during the summer. Asheville High School’s average SAT score is 1048 – 42 points higher than the state average of 1006 and 32 points higher than the national average of 1016.

Buncombe County Schools

The rest of Buncombe County is served by Buncombe County Schools, which has about 25,000 students, making it the 10th largest district in the state and the largest in Western North Carolina. The district includes 24 elementary schools, an intermediate school for grades five through six, seven middle schools and six high schools. Two new intermediate schools are set to be completed for the 2011-2012 school year. Buncombe County Schools consistently score among the top SAT averages in the state for districts with more than one high school. In 2009, the district scored 1055 – 49 points higher than the state average and 39 points higher than the national average.

Glen Arden Elementary School in Arden is one of the best schools in the region, as a designated Honor School of Excellence, meaning that at least 90 percent of its students scored at or above grade level, and it also attained Adequate Yearly Progress according to the federal No Child Left Behind Act. For the past five years, Cane Creek Middle School in Fletcher has been named a School of Excellence.

Henderson County Schools

As the district serving the fastest-growing county in Western North Carolina, Henderson County Schools has an enrollment of 13,324 students – a number that is steadily growing. Its motto is “Where Tomorrow Begins.” Henderson County Schools operates 13 elementary schools, four middle schools and four high schools, as well as Balfour Education Center, its alternative school. With a staff of more than 1,800, Henderson County Schools also lays claim to

Education

Transylvania County Schools

With about 3,800 students, Transylvania County Schools has been a highperforming district since the inception of the North Carolina ABC model 15 years ago. The district operates four elementary schools, two middle schools, two high schools and an alternative school. In 2007, Brevard Elementary, Pisgah Forest Elementary, Rosman Elementary, T.C.

community involvement in order to achieve student success, welcoming parents and volunteers to be active in the school program. A bond referendum is helping fund new state-of-the-art science labs, gymnasiums, a media center, advanced technology and distancelearning labs that allow students to take courses from the North Carolina School of Math and Science, as well as universities.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville City Schools

195 National Board Certified teachers, the highest distinction for educators. Hendersonville Elementary was a designated Honor School of Excellence in 2009, attaining 92.1 percent pass rates on end-of-grade tests and achieving Adequate Yearly Progress according to the No Child Left Behind Act. Although the other schools in Henderson County use a traditional schedule, Hendersonville Elementary operates on a flex quarter calendar with nine-week grading periods followed by a three-week break.

Haywood County Schools

Henderson Elementary, Brevard Middle and Brevard High schools were all named Schools of Distinction, meaning at that least 80 percent of students are at or above grade level. Brevard High School’s average SAT score is 1062 – 56 points higher than the state average and 46 points higher than the national average. Transylvania County Schools focuses on

Nine elementary, three middle and three high schools make up Haywood County Schools, which is recognized as one of the best school districts in North Carolina. The district’s motto is “Success for today, preparation for tomorrow and learning for a lifetime.” About 7,500 students are enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade. Clyde Elementary, Hazelwood Elementary, Riverbend Elementary, Jonathan Valley Elementary, Junaluska Elementary, Bethel Elementary, Canton Middle and Central Elementary were all named Schools of Dis-

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828.274.0757 www.cdschool.org

Newcomers guide |

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| Newcomers guide

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Education

Public School Districts

Asheville City Schools 85 Mountain St. Asheville, NC 28801 828-350-7000 www.asheville.k12.nc.us

Buncombe County Schools 175 Bingham Road Asheville, NC 28806 828-255-5921 www.buncombe.k12.nc.us

Haywood County Schools 1230 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 828-456-2400 www.haywood.k12.nc.us

Henderson County Schools 414 Fourth Ave. West Hendersonville, NC 28739 828-697-4733 www.henderson.k12.nc.us

Jackson County Schools 398 Hospital Road Sylva, NC 28779 828-586-2311 www.jcps.k12.nc.us

Madison County Schools 5738 U.S. 25/70 Highway Marshall, NC 28573 828-649-9276 www.madison.k12.nc.us

Transylvania County Schools 225 Rosenwald Lane Brevard, NC 28712 828-884-6173 www.transylvania.k12.nc.us

Yancey County Schools 100 School Circle Burnsville, NC 28714 828-682-6101 www.yanceync.net

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tinction in 2009, meaning that at least 80 percent of students performed at or above grade level on end-of-grade tests. With about 1,100 students, Tuscola High School in Waynesville offers a range of Advanced Placement courses and extracurricular activities. With an average SAT score of 1045, more than 85 percent of Tuscola High School graduates go on to college. The district also operates Haywood Early College, allowing students to take college level courses while still in high school.

school; Cullowhee Valley, Fairview and Scotts Creek, all K-8 schools; Blue Ridge, a PreK-12 school; Smoky Mountain High, a 9-12 school; and the School of Alternatives, which serves students with special needs in grades PreK-12. In 2007, Scotts Elementary was designated a School of Distinction, meaning that at least 80 percent of its students performed at or above grade level on end-of-grade tests. Jackson County Schools also provides an early college program through partnerships with Western Carolina University and Southwestern Community College.

Madison County Schools

For more information on individual schools, go to the N.C. School Report Cards website at www.ncreportcards.org.

With a little more than 2,600 students, Madison County Schools operates four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school amid the county’s rural mountain landscape. Class sizes in all schools are far below the state average and are typically less than 20 pupils in each class. Because of its small size, Madison County Schools is focused on each individual student and, according to the district, on “providing comprehensive educational experiences in a safe environment that equips and empowers students to be responsible citizens.” In 2009, Laurel Elementary and Madison Early College High schools were named an Honor School of Excellence, meaning that at least 90 percent of students performed at or above grade level and that it achieved Adequate Yearly Progress according to the No Child Left Behind Act. Brushy Creek Elementary and Mars Hill Elementary were designated Schools of Distinction, meaning that at least 80 percent of students performed at or above grade level. With about 670 students, Madison High School was formed in 1974 by merging high schools in Hot Springs, Laurel, Mars Hill, Marshall and Spring Creek. Priding itself on its ability to focus on each individual student, Madison High School has an average class size of 15.5.

Jackson County Schools

With a long legacy of education, Jackson County Schools was established in 1853. Serving about 3,600 students, Jackson County Schools employs more than 650 staff members. The district is composed of seven schools – Smokey Mountain Elementary, a PreK-8

North Carolina Immunization Requirements for School Entry A physician, health clinic or local health department administering required vaccines must give a Certificate of Immunization to the person who presented the child for immunization. The certificate/record must include the following information: • Name, sex and date of birth • Name and address of parent or guardian • Number of vaccine doses given • Date vaccines were given (month and year is acceptable for out-of-state transfer students) • Signature of physician or health department stamp Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DPT) – Five doses. Three doses by age 7 months and two booster doses, one by age 19 months and the second dose on or after the fourth birthday and before enrolling in school for the first time. If the fourth dose was administered on or after the fourth birthday, the fifth dose is not required. Polio – Four doses. Two doses by age 5 months, a third dose by 19 months of age and a booster dose before enrolling in school for the first time. If the third dose was administered on or after the fourth birthday, the fourth dose is not required. Measles – Two doses. One dose on or after 12 months of age and before 16

Newcomers guide |

Private Schools

Asheville Catholic School

Evergreen Community Charter

Maccabi Academy

Grades PreK-8 12 Culvern St. Asheville, NC 28804 828-252-7892 www.ashevillecatholic.org

Grades K-8 50 Bell Road Asheville, NC 28805 828-298-2173 www.evergreenccs.org

Grades K-5 229-A Murdock Ave. Asheville, NC 28804 828-254-5660 www.maccabiacademy.org

Asheville Christian Academy

Fletcher Academy

Montessori Learning Center

Grades PreK-12 74 Riverwood Road Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-581-2200 www.acacademy.org

Grades 9-12 185 Fletcher Academy Drive Fletcher, NC 28732 828-687-5100 www.fletcheracademy.com

Age 18 months – 6 years 1 School Road Asheville, NC 28806 828-259-9880 www.mlcasheville.org

Asheville Montessori School

Mount Pisgah Academy

Ages 3-6 360 Weaverville Highway Asheville, NC 28804 828-254-6014 www.ashevillemontessorischool.com

Grades 9-12 75 Academy Drive Candler, NC 28715 828-667-2535 www.mountpisgahacademy.org

Asheville School

Nazarene Christian School

Grades 9-12 360 Asheville School Road Asheville, NC 28806 828-254-6345 www.ashevilleschool.org

Grades PreK-8 385 Hazel Mill Road Asheville, NC 28806 828-253-2095 www.ashevilefirstnazarene.org

Photo Courtesy of Odyssey Community School

Carolina Day School

Hanger Hall School for Girls

Odyssey Community School

Grades PreK-12 1345 Hendersonville Road Asheville, NC 28803 828-274-0757 www.cdschool.org

Grades 6-8 30 Ben Lippen School Road Asheville, NC 28801 828-258-3600 www.hangerhall.org

Grades PreK-12 90 Zillicoa St. Asheville, NC 28801 828-259-3653 www.odysseycommunity.org

Christ School

Immaculate Catholic School

Grades 8-12 500 Christ School Road Arden, NC 28704 800-422-3212 www.christschool.org

Grades PreK-8 711 N. Buncombe St. Hendersonville, NC 28791 828-693-3277 www.immac.org

Rainbow Mountain Children’s School

Emmanuel Lutheran School

Learning Community School

Grades PreK-8 51 Wilburn Place Asheville, NC 28806 828-281-8182 www.emmanuellutheranschool.org

Grades K-8 375 Lake Eden Road Black Mountain, NC 28711 828-686-3080 www.thelearningcommunity.org

| Newcomers guide

Grades PreK-8 574 Haywood Road Asheville, NC 28806 828-258-9264 www.rmcs.org

Veritas Christian Academy Grades K-12 17 Cane Creek Road Fletcher, NC 28732 828-681-0546

Photo Courtesy of Henderson County Public Schools

Education

Hendersonville High School.

ArtSpace Charter School Grades K-8 2030 U.S. Highway 70 Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-298-2787 www.artspacecharter.org

months of age and a second dose before enrolling in school for the first time. As long as the doses are separated by at least 28 days, the second dose may be given at any time before beginning school. Mumps – Two doses. One dose on or after 12 months of age and before age 16 months and a second dose before enrolling in school for the first time. A physician’s diagnosis is not acceptable for mumps. The person must be immunized or have documented laboratory results of a protective antibody to deter the specific disease. Rubella – One dose on or after 12 months of age and before 16 months of age. The person must be immunized or have documented laboratory results of a protective antibody to deter the specific disease. Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) – Three doses of HbOC or two doses of PRPOMP by age 7 months and a final dose of any type on or after age 12 months and by age 16 months. Persons who receive the first dose of Hib on or after 12 months of age and before 15 months of age are required to have only two doses with one

Photo Courtesy of Asheville City Schools

Area Charter Schools

dose being after 15 months of age. Persons who received the first dose of Hib vaccine on or after 15 months of age are required to have only one dose. Persons who have passed their fifth birthday are not required to be vaccinated against Hib. Hepatitis B – Three doses. One dose by age 3 months, second dose by age 5 months and a third dose by age 19 months. Persons born on or after July 1, 1994, are required to receive the hepatitis B vaccine. The last dose of hepatitis B series shall not be administered prior to 24 weeks of age. Varicella – One dose. One dose of varicella vaccine – on or after 12 months of age and before age 19 months – is required for children born on or after April 1, 2001. However, an individual with laboratory tests showing immunity or a history of chickenpox documented by a health care provider, parent, guardian or person in loco parentis shall not be required to receive varicella vaccine. Documentation of prior history of chickenpox disease must be on or attached to the lifetime immunization card or certificate of immunization. Ask your health care provider for more information.

Brevard Academy Grades K-8 299 Andante Lane Brevard, NC 28712 828-885-2665 www.brevardacademy.org

Evergreen Community Charter School Grades K-8 50 Bell Road Asheville, NC 28805 828-298-2173 www.evergreenccs.org

Francine Delany New School for Children Grades K-8 P.O. Box 16161 Asheville, NC 28816 828-236-9441 www.fdnsc.net

Summit Charter School Grades K-8 P.O. Box 1339 Cashiers, NC 28717 828-743-5755 www.summitschool.org

The Mountain Community School Grades K-8 613 Glover St. Hendersonville, NC 28792 828-696-8480 www.tmcschool.org

Asheville High School’s football field.

Newcomers guide |

Welcome

| Newcomers guide

courses, students are required to work 15 hours a week to support the operation of the college and perform 100 hours of community service over four years. In 2010, the “Fiske Guide to Colleges” named the school as one of its 26 Best Buys in the country. Warren Wilson offers 48 majors and concentrations and 28 minors; most students seek degrees in environmental science, engineering and outdoor leadership. In fact, the school still operates a working farm. With about 850 students, Warren Wilson teaches students from 42 states and 10 countries, and 90 percent of its students live on campus. Sierra Magazine named the college No. 4 in its Top 10 Coolest Schools and in the fight against global warming. Affiliated with the North Carolina Baptist Convention, Mars Hill College was founded in 1856 and is the oldest educational institution in Western North Carolina still on its original site. With

about 1,200 students, Mars Hill College offers degrees in 30 different majors and 33 minors and a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1. Beyond its 19 NCAA Division II sports teams, Mars Hill also offers 43 student clubs and organizations. As the largest four-year college in Western North Carolina, Western Carolina University in Cullowhee has more than 9,000 students in more than 220 majors and 60 graduate programs. Its library, Hunter Library, is the largest in Western North Carolina. Originally called the Mountain Retreat Association, Montreat College was founded in 1916 by the Presbyterian Church and its curriculum focused on encouraging Christian work. Now considered a liberal arts college, Montreat enrolls about 1,036 students and boasts a student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1. Beyond its Black Mountain campus, Montreat also offers adult studies campuses in Asheville and Charlotte. In 1934, Rutherford and Weaver colleges merged to form Brevard College, which is affiliated with the Methodist Church. The four-year private college is spread over a 120- acre campus with about 700 students and bachelor’s degrees in 20 majors and pre-professional degrees in medicine, law, dentistry, nursing and veterinary science. Focused on theological and biblical studies, Trinity Baptist Bible College offers four-year degrees in theology for preachers,

Spilman Hall at Mars Hill College.

Photo by Tony L. Moore Photography

estern North Carolina provides a wealth of colleges, universities and technical schools that contribute to the area’s educated population. As the only designated liberal arts school in the University of North Carolina system, UNC Asheville offers a low student-teacher ratio, small class sizes of about 19 and learning opportunities that benefit both students and their communities. About 3,000 students attend UNC Asheville, which is affiliated with NCAA Division I sports and offers more than 70 clubs and organizations. In 2010, U.S. News & World Report named UNC Asheville fifth on its list of schools with “the most promising and innovative changes.” As one of the most unique colleges in the country, Warren Wilson College’s motto is “We’re not for everyone ... but then, maybe you’re not everyone.” The school’s philosophy focuses on the Triad: academics, work and service. In addition to their curriculum

Students at UNC Asheville.

Photo by Benjamin Porter

Higher Learning

Higher Learning pastors, missionaries and evangelists, as well as a graduate degree in theology and a Christian Worker’s diploma. Based in Raleigh, Shaw University operates one of its Centers for Alternative Programs of Education (CAPE) campuses in Asheville. As the oldest historically black college in the South, Shaw University was established in 1865 and is affiliated with the Baptist Church. Established in 1959, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College serves about 9,000 students in curriculum programs and about 17,000 students in total, including extension programs. With five different schools, including Allied Health and Public Service Education, Arts and Sciences, Business and Hospitality Education, Continuing Education, and Engineering and Applied Technology, the public, two year school offers 60 different curriculum programs, 47 degrees, 17 diplomas and 50 certificates. Opened in 1965 as Haywood Industrial Education Center, Haywood Community College now offers 50 curriculum programs for its 3,406 students in degree programs and 5,166 in continuing education programs, which include adult basic education, GED preparation, occupational courses and community service programs. Affiliated with the North Carolina Community College System, Haywood Community College is located on a lovely 83-acre campus in Clyde that features an arboretum and teaching forest. Established in 1969, Blue Ridge Community College enrolls about 2,000

students at its 140-acre main campus in Hendersonville, as well as at its Transylvania Center in Brevard. Blue Ridge Community College provides its students with the opportunity to obtain associate’s degrees, diplomas and certificates, as well as continuing education, distance learning and cooperative education courses. Also part of the North Carolina Community College System, Southwestern Community College in Sylva offers more

Regional Colleges and Universities Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College 340 Victoria Road Asheville, NC 2801 828-254-1921 www.abtech.edu

Blue Ridge Community College 180 W. Campus Drive Flat Rock, NC 28731 828-694-1700 www.blueridge.edu

Brevard College 1 Brevard College Drive Brevard, NC 28712 828-883-8292 www.brevard.edu

Haywood Community College 185 Freedlander Drive Clyde, NC 28721 828-627-2821 www.haywood.edu

Mars Hill College 100 Athletic St. Mars Hill, NC 28754 866-MHC-4YOU www.mhc.edu

Montreat College

Photo by Tim Burleson

310 Gaither Circle Montreat, NC 28757 828-669-8012 www.montreat.edu

Class at UNC Asheville.

than 40 degrees, certificates and diploma programs, including GED preparation. Students also have the option to transfer to a four-year institution. A private, two-year college, South College - Asheville offers associate’s degrees in accounting, business administration, paralegal studies, office technology, medical assisting, criminal justice, physical therapy assistant and network technology, as well as certificate programs and general education courses.

South College 29 Turtle Creek Drive Asheville, NC 28803 828-277-5521 www.southcollegenc.edu

Southwestern Community College 447 College Drive Sylva, NC 28779 828-586-4091 www.southwesterncc.edu

Trinity Baptist Bible College 230 Shelburne Road Asheville, NC 28806 828-253-8214

University of North Carolina at Asheville 1 University Heights Asheville, NC 28804 828-251-6600 www.unca.edu

Warren Wilson College 701 Warren Wilson Road Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-298-3325 www.warren-wilson.edu

Western Carolina University Highway 107 Cullowhee, NC 28723 828-227-7211 www.wcu.edu

Shaw University Education Center 31 College Place, Suite 203A Asheville, NC 28801 828-252-7635 www.shawuniversity.edu

Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Mission Hospital.

rom its top-tier hospitals to rehabilitation and home health care centers, Western North Carolina provides high-quality compassionate care in a variety of services. Formed in the 1996 from St. Joseph’s Hospital and Memorial Mission Hospital, Mission Hospital is now an 800-bed, 90-acre hilltop campus in Asheville that provides medical and surgical care in almost every specialty. As one of the top employers in Western North Carolina, Mission Hospitals employs 650 physicians and nearly 6,000 staff members, including more than 1,800 registered nurses. In 2010, Mission Health System was named one of the 51 best-performing health systems in the nation. The ranking was given in the annual quantitative study called The Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals: Health System Benchmarks. 16

| Newcomers guide

Mission Health System was the only health system in North or South Carolina to receive the designation. Asheville Specialty Hospital, located on the Mission Hospitals campus, is a 32-bed specialized acute-care hospital that provides extended care. Mission’s Children’s Hospital includes 113 inpatient beds specifically for the treatment of infants and children and provides pediatric care in more than 20 specialties. Asheville’s VA Medical Center is a 112-bed, acute-care facility that also offers a 120- bed Extended Care and Rehabilitation Center. The hospital serves Western North Carolina and parts of South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. Also a teaching hospital, the VA Medical Center offers programs in research and education. Located in Clyde, Haywood Regional Medical Center has 170 acute-care beds

and 20 restorative-care beds. First opened in 1927, Haywood Regional was the first county hospital in the state. Its current facility, located on 51 acres, is the state’s largest hospital west of Asheville. As the second-largest employer in Henderson County, the Margaret R. Pardee Memorial Hospital provides 222 acute-care beds as well as a 130-bed nursing facility. Established in 1953, the hospital employs about 1,200, including 242 physicians and dentists. In Brevard, Transylvania Regional Hospital was established in 1933 and now operates 94 beds. Forty full-time physicians and 80 consulting physicians provide services in acute care, diabetes education, occupational health, labor and delivery, critical and intensive care, outpatient services, rehabilitation therapy, home health care and transitional care. Established in 1910, Park Ridge Hospital in Fletcher serves south Asheville, Skyland, Arden, Fletcher and Henderson County. Affiliated with the Adventist Health System, the 103-bed hospital provides state-of-theart technology and holistic care with more than 1,100 caregivers and 230 physicians. Asheville Children’s Medical Center has provided pediatric care for the area since 1968. With locations in Biltmore Village and Skyland, the center serves children from birth to age 21. Patients receive well-care checkups, sick and urgent visits,

Reuter Children’s Outpatient Center.

Photo Courtesy of Jonathan Hillyer Photography

Photo by Michelle Rabell

Health Care

Regional Health Care Centers

Photo Courtesy of Mission Hospitals

MISSION HOSPITALS

Mission Hospital Cancer Center.

and laboratory services, and phone nurses are available 24 hours a day. Asheville Cardiology Associates provides comprehensive cardiology care, offering everything from diagnostics to pediatric cardiology to prevention and treatment of heart problems with more than 33 physicians and 30 exam rooms within a 78,000-squarefoot facility. The practice serves the cardiology needs for Mission Hospitals, which was ranked 42nd in the country’s top heart hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. As the largest specialty practice in Western North Carolina, Asheville Cardiology Associates has locations in Asheville, Hendersonville, Brevard, Sylva and Franklin. With 80 beds, CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital is a not-for-profit private hospital that provides traditional and specialized rehabilitation for patients overcoming catastrophic illness or injury. CarePartners also offers outpatient rehabilitation, home health care, hospice and palliative care, and adult day care. The Sisters of Mercy has been facilitating quality health care since 1900 and today operates three urgent care centers in Buncombe County, which serve more patients than any other urgent care facility in the region. Asheville Mobile Physicians provides house calls for minor medical problems 24 hours a day. Costs are comparable to urgent care. The American Red Cross operates three chapters in Western North Carolina – the Asheville-Mountain Area Chapter, the Haywood County Chapter and the Henderson County Chapter – that offer health and safety classes and sponsor blood drives.

Memorial Campus

CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital

509 Biltmore Ave., Asheville St. Joseph Campus 428 Biltmore Ave., Asheville 828-213-1111 www.missionhospitals.org

Transylvania Community Hospital

Asheville Children’s Medical Center Biltmore Office 7 Vanderbilt Park Drive, Suite 100A, Asheville 828-258-0969 Skyland Office 5 Walden Ridge Drive, Asheville 828-687-8709 www.ashevillechildrens.com

Asheville Specialty Hospital 428 Biltmore Ave., Asheville 828-213-5400 www.missionhospitals.org

Haywood Regional Medical Center 262 Leroy George Drive, Clyde 828-456-7311 www.haymed.org

68 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville 828-277-4800 www.carepartners.org

90 Hospital Drive, Brevard 828-884-9111 www.trhospital.org

SISTERS OF MERCY Urgent Care South 1812 Hendersonville Road, Asheville 828-274-1462

Urgent Care West 8 New Leicester Highway, Asheville 828-252-4878

Urgent Care North 155 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville 828-645-5088 www.urgentcares.com

Asheville Mobile Physicians 828-776-5668 www.ashevillemobilephysicians.com

Pardee Hospital 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville 828-696-1000 www.pardeehospital.org

Asheville-Mountain Area Red Cross 100 Edgewood Road, Asheville 828-258-3888 www.redcrosswnc.org

Park Ridge Hospital 100 Hospital Drive, Fletcher 828-684-8501 www.parkridgehospital.org

Henderson County Red Cross 203 Second Ave. East, Hendersonville 828-693-5605 www.hcredcross.org

VA Medical Center 1100 Tunnel Road, Asheville 828-298-7911 www.asheville.va.gov

Haywood County Red Cross 1668 Brown Ave., Waynesville 828-456-8141 www.haywoodredcross.com

Asheville Cardiology Associates 5 Vanderbilt Park Drive, Asheville 828-274-6000 http://asheville.cardiologydomain.com

Newcomers guide |

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Welcome

ith a diverse economic base that includes manufacturing, health care services and tourism, Western North Carolina boasts one of the most solid economies in the region. In 2010, Forbes magazine named Asheville 21st on its list of 200 Best Places for Business and Careers. The magazine also ranked it 6th among all U.S. cities as a place to do business, and American Style magazine said it was No. 1 on its list of Top 25 Small Cities. City and county officials, as well as local chambers of commerce, have worked to attract new businesses to the region with tax advantages and other incentives. As businesses have relocated here and current ones have expanded, Asheville maintains one of the lowest unemployment rates of North Carolina’s 14 metro areas. At 8.2 percent, Asheville maintains one of the lowest unemployment rates of North Carolina’s 14 metro areas. At 9.9 percent, Western North Carolina’s unemployment rate is lower than the state average of 10.1 percent and slightly higher than the national average of 9.6 percent. Area businesses are able to draw a labor force of about 208,000 from the five-county

Asheville Regional Airport.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Business Climate

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Regional Airport

Business Climate

Grove Arcade.

metro area that includes Buncombe, Madison, Transylvania, Haywood and Henderson counties. Outlying counties, including Polk, Rutherford, Yancey and McDowell, are also beginning to add to the region’s work force. Drawing visitors from across the country, Western North Carolina’s economy is bolstered by its tourism industry, particularly during the autumn months when the leaves change colors and hotel rooms are hard to come by. The area attracts more than 5 million visitors each year who generate more than $13 million in accommodations revenue, which includes everything from luxury hotels to bed and breakfasts to chain hotels. Not surprisingly, tourism is the area’s No.1 industry, as visitors flock to such attractions as Biltmore Estate and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The rapidly growing health care industry is the largest employment sector in Western

North Carolina. The largest private employer in the region is Mission Hospitals, which employs more than 6,000, and other health care facilities add thousands more. In fact, health care employment in the area has increased by about 5 percent each year – growth that is expected to continue as more and more retirees relocate to the area. With a strong manufacturing base, Western North Carolina is home to Arvato Digital Services in Weaverville, Wilsonart International in Fletcher and GE Lighting Systems in East Flat Rock. Also, Volvo Construction Equipment has its headquarters in Asheville. While home prices are down in most metro areas throughout the country, Asheville’s median home price has remained steady. The region’s moderate population growth, which prompts new development, has also bolstered the construction and retail industries. Newcomers guide |

Business Climate One unique industry that is thriving here is the film industry. In the past couple decades, a number of mainstream movies have been made here, giving a boost to the local economy and also promoting the area. The movies “Hannibal” and “Patch Adams” were filmed at Biltmore Estate, “28 Days” starring Sandra Bullock was filmed at a conference center in Black Mountain and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Jackson County was where “The Fugitive” starring Har-

weekend. Henderson County’s other main attraction, the Flat Rock Playhouse, also adds to the area economy. Haywood County has been working to attract new businesses with financial incentives. It is home to Evergreen Packaging Group, formerly known as Blue Ridge Paper, based in Canton, which is one of the area’s top employers. Waynesville’s thriving arts culture has prompted a blend of new development in and around its historic downtown. Western North Carolina’s location has helped make it a prime spot for new and expanding businesses. Asheville Regional

rison Ford was filmed. Chimney Rock served as the film site of “The Last of the Mohicans,” while nearby Lake Lure set the stage for “Dirty Dancing.” The greatest industry in Henderson County – the fastest-growing county in Western North Carolina – is apples. Sixty-five percent of North Carolina’s apple crop comes from Henderson County. This is celebrated annually with the North Carolina Apple Festival, which brings more than 200,000 visitors to downtown Hendersonville each Labor Day

3,000+ EMPLOYEES

750-999 EMPLOYEES

Buncombe County Public Schools

BorgWarner Turbo and Emissions Systems

Education www.buncombe.k12.nc.us

Transportation Equipment www.bwauto.com

Mission Hospitals CarePartners

Health Care www.missionhospitals.org

Health Care www.carepartners.org

1,000-2,999 EMPLOYEES Eaton Corporation – Electrical Division

The Biltmore Co. Tourism www.biltmore.com

Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing www.eaton.com

Buncombe County Government

Tourism www.groveparkinn.com

Ingles Markets Inc. Grocery Stores www.ingles-markets.com

VA Medical Center – Asheville Health Care www.asheville.va.gov

| Newcomers guide

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

City of Asheville

The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa

Window shopping in downtown Asheville.

Source: Buncombe County

Government www.buncombecounty.org

Government www.ashevillenc.gov

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Major Employers

Grove Park Inn.

Airport, located just 15 miles south of downtown, is a central component of business growth, offering direct flights to Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Newark, Cincinnati, Detroit and Minneapolis/ St. Paul. The airport is in the midst of a 20-year plan to expand and improve its facilities. The $20 million investment is in response to the increased traffic that is expected in coming years. At the crossroads of Interstate 26 and Interstate 40, Western North Carolina is centrally located between the cities of Knoxville, Charlotte, Greensboro and Greenville/Spartanburg. Furthermore, it is within a day’s drive from almost anywhere on the East Coast. The Interstate 240 loop, which circles Asheville, helps facilitate traffic, and the Blue Ridge Parkway offers exits throughout the region. Another 10 other major highways are located nearby.

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Newcomers guide |

Welcome

s one of the top tourist destinations in the country, Asheville is quickly becoming regarded as an international destination as well. Its unique attributes – abundance of arts and culture, spectacular mountain scenery and historic sites – give Asheville a distinct international flavor that appeals to travelers coming over from abroad, eager to capture a piece of genuine Americana culture. Local convention and visitors bureaus, travel agencies and business organizations have had success in promoting Western North Carolina to a global audience that can appreciate the region’s rich culture and gorgeous natural landscape. Western North Carolina is welcoming more and more visitors from Great Britain and Ireland. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the region was inhabited primarily by Scotch-Irish settlers, and remnants of their influence remain in Appalachian music, dance and craft work. Connoisseurs of American literature flock here from abroad to capture the essence of so many literary works. Many famous authors and poets spent time here – some even using their experiences to shape their writing. F. Scott Fitzgerald, who wrote “The Great Gatsby,” spent time in Asheville for its healing mountain air. When in town, he rented a room at the Grove Park Inn, which influenced Fitzgerald’s depiction of the opulent and lascivious lifestyle representative of the Roaring Twenties in “The Great Gatsby.” Thomas Wolfe’s colorful rendition of the region in “Look Homeward, Angel” and “You Can’t Go Home Again” solidified him as one of the 20th century’s premier authors. His childhood home, which his mother operated as a boarding house called “Old Kentucky Home,” served as 22

| Newcomers guide

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Regional Airport

International Destination

the basis of “Look Homeward, Angel.” The historic Victorian home remains as the Thomas Wolfe Memorial. Wolfe died of tuberculosis in 1937 and is buried in Asheville’s Riverside Cemetery. Also buried at Riverside Cemetery, short story writer O. Henry was known for his twist endings and his most famous work, “The Gift of the Magi.” Writer Carl Sandburg, winner of two Pulitzer Prizes, spent the latter part of his life at his estate, Connemara, in Flat Rock, which now is a National Historic Site. The abundance of Christian retreats

and conference centers in the region brings in visitors from across the globe, eager to partake in religious reflection amid the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The country’s most recognized evangelist, the Rev. Billy Graham, makes his home in Montreat. The Montreat Conference Center draws 35,000 visitors each year. Other religious retreats include Kanuga Conferences, Blue Ridge Assembly, Ridgecrest and The Cove, which is operated by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Every September, vintage motoring

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Photo by S. Kevin Greene

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enthusiasts from across the globe gather in Western North Carolina for the annual Carolina Trophy Rally, held at the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa. Started in 2004, the Carolina Trophy Rally is designed to be the first truly competitive continentalstyle road rally in the country, showcasing vintage cars more than 30 years old. The rally also provides a â&#x20AC;&#x153;touringâ&#x20AC;? category for participants who prefer a non-competitive option. The route traverses through the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains over the course of four days, averaging about 225 miles per day. Not only is Western North Carolina drawing visitors from abroad, but the region is getting international attention as a great place to relocate. In fact, Tiger Woods chose Western North Carolina as the site of his first designed course in the country at The Cliffs at High Carolina. Covering 3,000 acres, The Cliffs at High Carolina is a new community situated at 4,000 feet above sea level featuring 360-degree views that extend more than 50 miles. The walkable course offers southern exposure, so it can be played year-round. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My goal is to design a handful of very

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Newcomers guide |

The mountains showcase Asheville’s distinctive art deco skyline.

Asheville

or centuries, people have flocked to Asheville for its scenic beauty, cultural offerings and vibrant downtown. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville was originally called “Eden Land” when it was first settled during the 18th century. As the largest city in Western North Carolina and the 12th largest in the state, Asheville is home to about 74,000 residents. Asheville has been hailed as one of the best places to live in the country. American Style magazine put Asheville at the top of its list of Top 25 Small Cities, Forbes magazine listed it at No. 21 on its ranking of the 200 Best Places for Business and 24

| Newcomers guide

Careers. And, Barron’s included it as one of the 10 Best Places for Second Homes. Founded in 1793 by real estate broker John Burton, Asheville was established as the county seat of Buncombe County. The town was known as Morristown and Buncombe Courthouse before it incorporated in 1797 and was named after North Carolina Gov. Samuel Ashe. During the early 1800s, Asheville experienced slow growth. In fact, its population in 1840 was just 500 residents. However, when the railroad was built through here, everything changed. Scores of visitors who passed through enjoyed the mountain climate and gorgeous scen-

ery and decided to make a home here. One of these visitors was George Washington Vanderbilt, one of the wealthiest men in the country. After coming here with his mother in 1888 for the region’s presumably healing mountain air, Vanderbilt fell in love with the area. He purchased 125,000 acres that included Mount Pisgah and set out to build a grand estate that was modeled after a 16th- century French Renaissance chateau. Architects and artisans spent six years designing the estate, aiming to build a model in architecture, landscaping and interior design that would rival the finest European manors. When it debuted on Christmas Eve 1895, Biltmore Estate

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Welcome

covered 4 acres of floor space throughout 250 rooms, including 34 master bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, three kitchens and an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium and bowling alley. Furthermore, the home featured the most innovative amenities of its time: electricity, heating, plumbing, hot water, refrigeration and the first electric passenger elevator in North Carolina. The name that Vanderbilt gave his estate comes from combining the words “Bildt” – a Dutch area from where Vanderbilt’s family hails – and “more” – an old English word for open, rolling land. When Vanderbilt died in 1914, his wife sold 87,000 acres of land to the U.S. Forest Service, which became the core of the 510,000-acre Pisgah National Forest. In 1930, Biltmore Estate opened to the public and remains one of the top tourist attractions in the state, drawing millions of visitors each year. Even today, at 113 years old, Biltmore Estate is still the largest home in the country. At the entrance of Biltmore Estate, Biltmore Village was built during the 1890s to house employees of the estate. The Englishstyle village included a school, church, hospital and shops. During the 1960s, a section of Biltmore Village was renovated into a retail district and now includes 40 shops, galleries and restaurants. It was declared a historic district in 1989. Today, Biltmore Village remains as charming as ever, with brick sidewalks, trees and benches. The elegant magnificence of Biltmore Estate made Asheville particularly appealing to the country’s affluent, making it a destination for the rich and famous during the early 20th century. Grove Park Inn was built on Sunset Mountain overlooking Asheville in 1913. The luxury resort attracted dozens of famous characters such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Will Rogers and Calvin Coolidge. The neighborhood around Sunset Park east of Charlotte Street was developed soon after and became known as Grove Park. The Manor Hotel, established as a health resort in 1898, inspired similar growth. European-style cottages reflecting the architecture of the Manor began to pop up in the surrounding area between 1898 and

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Asheville

The Grove Arcade Public Market in downtown Asheville.

Newcomers guide |

1920. Now known as Albemarle Park, the Manor and the cottages are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Both Grove Park and Albemarle Park feature Tudor, Neo-Georgian and Neo-Colonial homes.

Another historic neighborhood, Biltmore Forest was established when Mrs. Vanderbilt sold 1,600 acres to be developed into a luxurious suburb with spacious lots and modern amenities.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Asheville’s pedestrian-friendly downtown is lined with sidewalk cafes and street art.

Today, Biltmore Forest is an independent township with its own police department, public works and community parks. With just over 1,500 residents, Biltmore Forest is composed of about 600 homes and most range in price from the $500s to the multi-millions. Featuring swan-necked streetlights, thickly wooded lots and historic homes, Biltmore Forest is one of the wealthiest towns in the country. As Asheville’s residential neighborhoods flourished during the 1920s, so did its commercial development downtown. Featuring Art Deco architecture, downtown Asheville was built during this time period, including the eight-story Asheville City Hall. While other cities underwent urban renewal projects during the 1960s and 1970s – tearing down their historic buildings to construct more modern ones – Asheville resisted, and to this day retains more than 170 historic buildings downtown. In fact, more Art Deco architecture is found in Asheville than in another other town in the Southeast besides Miami Beach. Asheville’s eclectic downtown is bustling with energy, as shops, cafes, bars and fine

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| Newcomers guide

Asheville

Basilica of St. Lawrence.

restaurants line its pedestrian-friendly streets. As more people long to live amid this vibrant historic district, condominiums have popped up, offering an urban lifestyle within walking distance of Asheville’s many cultural offerings. The core of Asheville’s arts and culture is Pack Square, which houses four museums, several galleries and the Diana Wortham Theatre. The 6-acre site was donated to the city in 1901 by George Willis Pack. The Pack Square/City-County Plaza has been transformed into Asheville’s own “central park.” The project officially opened in June 2010 after five years of planning and construction and serve as the location for various community concerts, festivals and more. Conceived by the founder of the Grove Park Inn, the Grove Arcade first opened in 1929. After falling under government control during World War II, the Grove Arcade remained under federal control until it was restored and opened again as a public market in 2002. With luxury apartments and 40 shops and restaurants, the Grove Arcade is the largest commercial building in Western North Carolina. The Basilica of St. Lawrence, adjacent to the Asheville Civic Center, is a Spanish Renaissance-style church built in 1905. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was designated a Minor Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1993. Also downtown, the Wall Street/Haywood block is lined with galleries, jewelry stores and restaurants, while Lexington Avenue draws antique lovers with several shops. Beyond its shopping opportunities downtown, Asheville also offers the

Among Asheville’s historic neighborhoods, Montford once was an incorporated village covering 300 acres in north Asheville. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, most of Montford’s homes were built between 1890 and 1920. The neighborhood also includes Riverside Cemetery, the resting place of authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry. Montford also hosts the Montford Arts and Music Festival in May.

Photo Provided

Asheville Mall on Tunnel Road. Anchored by Belk, Dillard’s, JCPenney and Sears, the mall also includes more than 100 shops, including such national retailers as Abercrombie & Fitch, Banana Republic and Barnes & Noble along with a food court. Real estate in Asheville remains affordable with a range of older homes in established neighborhoods, new construction, condominiums and townhomes.

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Newcomers guide |

Photo Courtesy of NC Division of Tourism

Asheville skyline at night.

| Newcomers guide

Rhododendrons in bloom at Craggy Gardens off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Once an independent city, the Kenilworth neighborhood lies south of downtown. With homes built between 1891 and 1929 representing a variety of housing styles, Kenilworth also includes a 19-acre lake. A new “town” has popped up just south of Asheville called Biltmore Park. This development is filled with shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and condos. Developers created this mixed-use town center as a place where families can “work, shop and recreate without leaving their neighborhood.” West Asheville was also an incorporated town from 1889 to 1897 and grew as a commercial district with streetcars and trolley service. Today, real estate in West Asheville is more affordable than other parts of Asheville – but all this is quickly changing as newcomers are drawn to the distinct character of the historic neighborhood. Haywood Road, once the only thoroughfare from Asheville to Haywood County, now serves as the “main street” of West Asheville, with eclectic shops, bookstores, cafes and restaurants. Covering 434 acres south of downtown Asheville, the North Carolina Arboretum offers a diverse array of gardens. Bent Creek winds 2 miles through the Arboretum, and

Asheville’s craft breweries receive high marks from beer enthusiasts worldwide.

hiking trails along the creek range from easy to difficult. Among the 65 acres of cultivated gardens is one of the finest and most unique Bonsai collections in the country. The World Data Center for Meteorology in Asheville is part of a global international network of centers that gather and share meteorological data. The Asheville center col-

lects and archives data that is made available to the international scientific community. Swannanoa lies east of Asheville via Interstate 40, about halfway between Asheville and Black Mountain, and is appealing to those who prefer a small-town lifestyle. The town is named after its place on the Swannanoa River, which runs for 22 miles between Mount Mitchell and the French Broad River.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Asheville Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Swannanoa is also near Flat Top Mountain, Mount Mitchell, Hawks Bill and Table Rock, which all offer spectacular views. Warren Wilson College – one of the most unique colleges in the country – is based in Swannanoa. The school’s curriculum is based on the “Triad” of academics, work and service. Each of Warren Wilson’s students participate in a work program in order to learn core work values and assist in the operations of the college, as well as service projects and regular academic courses. U.S. News & World Report recently recognized Warren Wilson as one of America’s Best Colleges. The college hosts The Swannanoa Gathering, a series of summer workshops in various folk arts, where community members can take classes in everything from basket weaving and carving to banjo and gospel singing. It also sponsors a Celtic music series at Diana Wortham Theatre in Asheville. The Swannanoa Chamber Players is a group of professional musicians that performs concerts in Swannanoa, Hendersonville and Waynesville during the summer. The group celebrated 40 years in 2009.

GOOSMANN ROSE COLVARD & CRAMER, P.A. ATTORNEYS AT LAW

“Concentrating in Real Estate Transactions” George F. Goosmann, IV John R. Rose Veronica H. Colvard Elizabeth L.M. Cramer office

(828) 258-0150 | fax (828) 258-1305

77 Central Avenue, Suite H | Asheville, NC 28801

www.grcclaw.com

Newcomers guide |

25W

131

75 441

Trentville

Ha y Rd w o

441

70 35

321 73

240

dge Pa rkway

321

PivK

74A

441

Gatlinburg

Biltmore Forest

Cades Cove

441

Chilhowee Tallassee

Asheville

276

Fontana Village Fontana 129 Lake 28 Santeetlah Santeetlah Lake Robbinsville

Dillsboro

441 23

74 Rainbow Springs

Murphy

Chatuge Lake

Lake Junaluska

175

Clyde

Norton

129

Hiawassee

Jacksonville

Blairsville

Young Harris

180 129 19

180

129

Lake Burton 197

Tiger

441 23

215

Salem 11

Mountain Rest 28

Wiley

Lakemont

Rabun Lake

356

Waynesville 255

Helen

130

Clayton

276

Chattahoochee National Forest 17

Satolah 215

Woodrow 76

107

Mountain City

Hazelwood

348

| Newcomers guide

Rabun Gap

Brasstown Bald Highest Pt. in GA (4784 ft.)

Scaly

Highlands 106

Canton

Dillard

19 66

76 2 515

19 23

Cashiers 281

Courtney

215

Otto

209

Neels Balsam Gap

Hayesville

339 51517

Blue Ridge Lake

Lake Toxaway

23 441

515 76

Glenville

19 276

Blue Ridge

281

Wolf Mountain

Franklin

Brasstown

Nottely Lake

Tuckasegee

276

Cullowhee

Brendletown

294

107

Marble

Ducktown

Sylva

Andrews

Hiwassee Lake

23 74

Nantahala

Apalachia Lake

BUS

Balsam

Whittier

Lake Maggie Jun aluska Valley

Cherokee Cherokee 19 Indian Waynesville Bryson Reservation 19 City 441

Tapoco

Tellico Plains

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

191

Madisonville

25A Rd

129

Pisgah National Forest

32 321 73

115

Pigeon Forge

321

Blu

411

321

Cosby

Broa d

321

441

321 40 73

Cre e

Jena

nc h

338

Fairvie

25 70

73 411

Newport

139

ive

Greenback

322

n an n a

Tellico Lake

411

Walland

Fr e

Maryville 129

nel un

240Alcoa

Loudon

well Do

115

321

411

191

Shooks Gap

Rockford

129

tte

r ste

19 n tto e Av

Mentor

Douglas Lake

Catlettsburg

71 T

arlo

ic e

Patt

Crenshaw A v e

63 140 332

168

321

25W

25W 70

338

160

25E

FR I EN CH BROAD R

441

Lenoir City

Lovell

Beech Springs

oa dw

Ne 70

321

Cedar Bluff

131

275

Knoxville

Ball Camp

162

ORK .F

113

Strawberry Plains

rk e Ridge Pa way

640

OLSTON

Blu

25W

Oak Ridge

e rrim 441 on

White Pines

VE R

131 M

251

170

South Clinton

Jefferson City

34 11E

Oliver Springs

11w

VE R

Clinton 330

Blaine

Tallulah Falls

Lake Keowee

Longcreek

Walhalla 76

Westminster

Greeneville

226 23

197

19w

208

Spruce Pine 226

Mars Hill

Mt. Mitchell

Crabtree

226

128 80

Marion

226

40 70

Brindletown

Glenwood

Skyland

rkway

Chimney Lake Rock Lure

Bat Cave

280

Mill Spring

Flat Rock

176

Tryon

Rosman 276

178

276

Greer

Pickens 178

Six Mile Liberty

Easley

120

Boiling Springs

Fingerville

ALT

221

Flat Chesnee Rock

150

25 Boiling Springs

150

110

Mayo

Macedonia

Saluda85

Blacksbu

East Gaffney

176

Gaffney

221

Cowpens

198 5

Hendersonville Valley Falls

180

BR OAD RIV

East Flat Rock

329

Tryon

176 221

Greenville

183

ALT

Henrietta Cliffside

Spartanburg

Travelers Rest

Shelby 74

Mooresboro

221

Inman

Ellenboro

176221

Lake Robinson

Lattimore

Caroleen Avondale

Harris

Lake William C. Bowen

Marietta

176

BUS

Alexander Mills

d k R

276

Rocky Bottom

Roc

Columbus

Landrum

226

y Forest City ne

ALT

215

Lake Toxaway

26 vi

Saluda

108

191

108

y Hw

Brevard

Rutherfordton Spindale

182

Lake Lure Lawndale

Polkville

Hendersonville

Bat 10 Cave

FletcherLogan

Westminster

h As

Edneyville Lake Adger

Casar

221

Gilkey

ALT

215

Arden

280

R id

Thermal City

ALT

226

Skyland

Canton

276

Valdese

221

Swannanoa

126

Old Fort

Rhodhiss Lake

Morganton

Lake James

Woodlawn

Black Mountain

Hudson

197

Asheville

26 Weaverville

Seneca

Lenoir

221

Little Switzerland

Highest point east of Mississippi River (6684 ft.)

213

209

133

90 181

213

Lake Jocassee

268

226

Burnsville

23 19 74

321

194

212

Blowing Rock

19E

Bakersville 70

221

Linville

261

105

194

Newland

19w

Davy Crockett Lake

Banner Elk 184

Elk Park

Erwin

Mt. Carmel

351

276 176

26 Central

123

Union

Woodruff 385

Clemson 178

221

176

Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Black Mountain

| Newcomers guide

Photo by Kent A Barnes

evered for its tranquil beauty, Black Mountain calls itself the “Front Porch of Western North Carolina.” The town of more than 8,000 residents lies at the eastern edge of the Swannanoa Valley about 15 miles east of Asheville via Interstate 40. When first occupied by the Cherokee and Catawba Indian tribes, the area was called Grey Eagle. During the 19th century, Scotch and Irish settlers were drawn here for its spectacular mountain views. The town was founded in 1893 and named after the Black Mountain Range to the north. Similar to other towns in Western North Carolina, Black Mountain grew with the railroad – as visitors passed through, some chose to stay here for the fresh mountain air and gorgeous vistas. Times have changed, but Black Mountain continues to attract newcomers with its sense of community and friendly atmosphere. The town is able to blend its tourism base with families who have lived here for generations. Black Mountain’s historic downtown features an array of unique shops, artist studios and galleries, bookstores, antiques and furniture stores. Located in the Old City Hall on State Street, the Black Mountain Center for the Arts exhibits works of clay, fiber, paper, wood, mixed media and unique crafts. Several well-known religious centers are located in the vicinity, including Ridgecrest, Blue Ridge Assembly, Christmount and Montreat, home to evangelist Billy Graham. Covering 10 acres north of downtown, Lake Tomahawk provides fishing piers and allows non-motorized boating. Tennis courts, a playground, picnic areas, gardens, a gazebo, outdoor performance stage and walking path are located near the lake. An 18-hole course, Black Mountain Golf Course is home to the 747-yard, par-6 17th hole – once the longest in the world.

Sunrise above Black Mountain.

Residents of Black Mountain enjoy the Pisgah National Forest close by, with endless miles of hiking and biking trails and plenty of opportunities for paddling excursions. Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, and Craggy Gardens, renowned for its beautiful population of Catawba rhododendron, mountain laurel and azaleas, both lie just north of Black Mountain off the Blue Ridge Parkway. In February, outdoor recreation enthusiasts flock to Black Mountain for the Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge. The Mount Mitchell Challenge is a 40-mile trek from Black Mountain up to 6,684-foot Mount Mitchell – with a steep 4,324-foot climb in the first 20 miles – and back down again. For the Black Mountain Marathon, runners ascend to Black Mountain Gap at 5,340 feet and return. Considered a favorite among hardcore mountain trail runners, the race promises some of the most scenic vistas of any other race, which make the rigorous run totally worth it. Black Mountain College, established in 1933, was once one of the leading progressive colleges in the country before closing in 1957. In spite of its short tenure, the school

touched some of the most notable minds of the century. Black Mountain College’s curriculum focused on interdisciplinary studies in visual art, performance art, poetry, music and design – an approach that attracted an impressive array of instructors, including Buckminster Fuller, inventor of the geodesic dome; composer John Cage; dancer and choreographer Merce Cunningham; and Albert Einstein, who was a guest lecturer there. The Black Mountain poets, a group of avant-garde writers that included Charles Olson, Robert Duncan, Denise Levertov and Robert Creeley among others, had strong connections to the Beat poets of San Francisco. The Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center in Asheville commemorates the artistic spirit of the college with exhibits, lectures and educational programs. Today, the former college site is owned by Camp Rockmont, a Christian summer camp for boys age 7 to 16, along the shores of Lake Eden. Beyond the camp, the lake is perhaps best known for the Lake Eden Arts Festival (LEAF), a weekend-long event every May and October that features music, art, recreation, children’s activities and camping.

The rich and famous could only visit here.

You can call it home. Over the years many have visited this special place: movie stars, dignitaries, even ten U.S. Presidents. But none have had the opportunity to become owners, until now. Located just minutes from downtown Asheville—on the historic grounds of The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa—lies The Fitzgerald: a limited collection of 24 elegant residences that oﬀers owners an exclusive Grove Park Inn Community Membership. With construction complete and the ﬁrst families having already moved in, now’s the time to realize a lifestyle previous generations could only dream about. 43,000 sq.-ft. Nationally Acclaimed Spa • Award-Winning Donald Ross Golf Course • 50,000 sq.-ft. Sports Complex and Fitness Center • Indoor and Outdoor Tennis • Indoor and Outdoor Pools • Six On-Site Restaurants • Concierge Services

MODEL OPEN

To learn more or schedule a tour, please contact us at 828.251.1140 or TheFitzgerald.info. The Fitzgerald is a trademark of, and developed by, Allora Architecture, LLC. This is not intended to be an offer to sell, nor a solicitation of offers to buy real estate by residents of CT, HI, ID, IL, NY, NJ, OR, PA and SC or any jurisdiction where prohibited by law. No offering can be made to residents of New York until an offering plan is filed with the Department of Law of the State of New York. This offer is void where prohibited. Sales and marketing by Beverly-Hanks & Associates. © 2009 GPI Ventures, LLC.

Newcomers guide |

Welcome

| Newcomers guide

Because of the massive growth Henderson County is experiencing, county officials are taking steps to manage development through strict land use policies to protect the natural qualities of Hendersonville and other towns in Henderson County. Hendersonville has done a great job at preserving its historic downtown, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Featuring Neo-Classical brick and stone buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s, downtown Hendersonville’s street plan was designed during the 19th century, and its old-time Main Street is lined with shops and restaurants. Hendersonville offers a variety of real estate options, from older homes in established neighborhoods to new construction. Hyman Heights, developed between 1908 and 1923, features a wide range of home styles, including Colonial Revival, bungalows and ranch-style houses. The neighborhood is located in the area east of

Photo: Public Domain

nown as the City of Four Seasons and referred to as “the ideal retirement community,” the town of Hendersonville offers smalltown charm and a historic downtown. Just 22 miles south of Asheville via Interstate 26, Hendersonville draws newcomers with its slow-paced way of life. Henderson County was first settled in the late 1700s, led by Revolutionary War soldier William Mills. The county was established in 1838 and named after Leonard Henderson, chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. The town of Hendersonville was incorporated in 1847. Hendersonville serves as the county seat of Henderson County, the fastest-growing county in Western North Carolina. Between 2000 and 2009, Henderson County grew from 89,214 residents to an estimated 103,669 residents. The town of Hendersonville’s population was 12,997 in 2009, up from10,569 in 2000.

Connemara, Carl Sandburg estate.

Photo by S. Kevin Greene

Hendersonville U.S. 25 North, northeast of the Five Points intersection. Situated in Hyman Heights, the Killarney House Inn dates back to 1853. The Stone Gothic Revival house once served as a boarding house for perfomers with the Flat Rock Playhouse, but now operates as a bed and breakfast. Hendersonville’s West Side Historic District, located just west of the downtown commercial district, is a National Register Historic District developed in the 1910s and 1920s featuring Colonial Revival and bungalow-style homes. Another one of Hendersonville’s charming older neighborhoods is Druid Hills, which was established in the 1920s and exemplified the “Olmstedian concept” of land planning. With mature trees, Druid Hills features Colonial Revival, Tudor Revivals and craftsman-style architecture. Southwest of downtown, the Lenox Park Historic District was developed in the 1920s and features Queen Anne, Four Square and bungalow-style homes along with a grid pattern street design. One area of Hendersonville that is seeing new life is the Southside. Covering about 195 acres, the area is a mix of retail, service, office and light industrial space bound by the historic district to the north and residential

American poet, Carl Sandburg, moved to a Flat Rock, North Carolina estate, Connemara, in 1945 and lived there until his death in 1967.

Hendersonville

Historic Hendersonville offers a pedestrian-friendly shopping district with unique gift shops, inspiring art galleries, funky to formal restaurants and vibrant entertainment venues.

Photo Courtesy of Downtown Hendersonville Inc.

areas to the south. Hoping to spark infill development here, city planners are improving roads to better facilitate traffic, particularly at the U.S. 25/U.S. 176 intersection. The centerpiece of downtown is the Historic Henderson County Courthouse, dating back to 1905. For its 100-year anniversary, the courthouse underwent significant renovations to restore it to its original glory. Although a new courthouse was built in 1994, the original courthouse still houses some county offices and the Henderson County Heritage Museum, with exhibits on the history of Henderson County. Built in 1905, the Waverly Inn is a beautifully restored bed and breakfast in downtown Hendersonville with 14 guest rooms and private baths. In 1879, the first steam engine climbed the Saluda Grade to Hendersonville. As the steepest main-line railroad in the country, the Saluda Grade ran from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Charleston, S.C. The Historic Hendersonville Depot, located on Seventh Street between Grove and Ashe streets, has been restored to its original deep yellow color and

features a Southern Railway caboose and model railroad. Seeing a resurgence of late, the area surrounding the Hendersonville Depot is characterized by two-story brick buildings

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native Thomas Wolfe. The historic site is surrounded by a wrought-iron fence and noted with a historic marker. Historic Johnson Farm was constructed between 1876 and 1880, hand-built with bricks made from the mud of the French Broad River. The historic site includes the elegant farmhouse, barnloft museum, smokehouse, granary and other outbuildings. Occupied for many years by wealthy tobacco farmer Oliver Moss, the farm was donated by Vernon and Leander Johnson to the Henderson County Board of Public Education in 1987. In April, Historic Johnson Farm hosts the annual Johnson Farm Festival, which has helped to raise money to support the site for almost 20 years. As the top apple-producing county in the state, Henderson County hosts the North Carolina Apple Festival every Labor Day weekend. The festival attracts more than 200,000 people into downtown Hendersonville. South of Hendersonville, Dupont State Forest occupies 10,400 acres in Henderson and Transylvania counties. More than 90 miles of road and trails wind through the park, which is known for its spectacular waterfalls. Dupont State Forest welcomes guests year-round for mountain biking, 36

| Newcomers guide

hiking and horseback riding. Fishing and hunting are allowed with a permit. Kanuga Lake, just outside of Hendersonville, is home to Kanuga Conferences, an Episcopal organization that offers conference and summer camp facilities on 1,400 acres around the lake. More than 25,000 guests are welcomed annually to the year-round conference center. Since 1928, Camp Kanuga is a coeducational summer camp for children ages 7 to 15. Also on the lake, Camp Bob, founded in 1998, serves disadvantaged children from ages 8 to 15 throughout the Southeast who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend summer camp. Part of Kanuga Conferences, the Mountain Trail Outdoor School sponsors environmental education programs for youth through schools and other organizations. The Hendersonville Airport has served Hendersonville and the surrounding communities since 1932 and is one of the busiest private airstrips in the state. Adjacent to the airport, the Western North Carolina Air Museum displays airplanes from the Golden Age of General Aviation – the early 20th century – including planes from World War II. As a resort area during the early 20th century, renowned for its cool summer

Photo Courtesy of Treadshots.com Photo Courtesy of N.C. Apple Festival, www.ncapplefestival.org

The cast of Schoolhouse Rock Live! at the Flat Rock Playhouse.

temperatures, the town of Laurel Park lies just west of Hendersonville. About 2,200 residents live in the town, which incorporated in 1925. At an elevation of 3,000 feet, Laurel Park is a premier residential, retirement and vacation area offering gorgeous views of the mountains and valley below. Home prices in Laurel Park are significantly more expensive than in Hendersonville. Jump Off Rock, a scenic overlook at the edge of Laurel Park, features a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Pisgah National Forest. It is named after a 300-year-old Cherokee legend that when a young maiden heard her lover had been killed in battle, she jumped off this cliff. Local legend claims you can still see her ghost jump on moonlit nights. Known as “The Little Charleston of the Mountains,” Flat Rock was an oasis during the 19th century for Lowcountry residents who longed for a cool respite from Charleston’s oppressive heat. Affluent plantation owners built English-style estates here, and the area is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Flat Rock’s historic district retains its charming atmosphere with art studios and specialty shops. The town is located south of Hendersonville via U.S. 25. Flat Rock is perhaps best known for the Flat Rock Playhouse, The State Theatre of North Carolina, which draws more than 90,000 visitors each year. The Vagabond Players perform drama, musicals and

comedic productions from April through December and provide educational programs in the performing arts. St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church was established as the parish of Lowcountry visitors in 1836. The church cemetery serves as the resting place of many prominent South Carolinians and their slaves. Also in Flat Rock, the Carl Sandburg Home is a National Historic Site, preserving the estate where the prolific author lived from 1945 until his death in 1967. The site includes his collection of 10,000 books, notes and papers from as well as Connemara Farms Goat Dairy, which operates to this day. Etowah, an unincorporated town just west of Hendersonville, lies at the edge of the Pisgah National Forest. With 3,000 residents, Etowah is seeing a surge in new residential development, which is attracting newcomers with its beautiful, natural setting. One of the most significant new developments in Etowah is the Seven Falls Golf and River Club, which features an Arnold Palmer Golf Club. Spread out over 1,600 acres, Seven Falls

Photo Courtesy of N.C. Apple Festival, www.ncapplefestival.org

Hendersonville

offers lots that average more than an acre in size. Homesites start in the $300s and homes start in the $800s. The community also includes the Town Village, with a bustling streetscape, restaurants, shops and civic areas. The Etowah Valley Country Club of-

fers three nine-hole golf courses, providing a variety of 18-hole combinations. The course includes gardens, a driving range and lighted putting greens. Etowah Valley Country Club also features a clubhouse, heated swimming pool, tennis, croquet and fitness center.

Protection from unexpected expenses. Buying a new home is an exciting experience. It is also probably the largest investment you’ll ever make. That’s why you help protect it with homeowner’s insurance.What about the items not covered by insurance? A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many major system components and appliances in your home. A home warranty cannot prevent systems or appliances from breaking down, but it can help make covered repairs or replacements easier and less costly. With the benefits of an AHS Home Warranty, you can enjoy the comfort of your new home without the hassles of repair.

Aneha Chenault Sr. Account Executive 1.800.800.8880 ext 6731 achenault@ahslink.com

Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Fletcher

“The Town of Fletcher also has an ambitious goal: to connect the entire town with a network of trails. If successful, Fletcher will be the first town in the Southeast to accomplish this goal.” lies just west of town. Operating since 1961, the airport is now served by six airlines – AirTran, American, Continental, Delta, US Airways and United, – and provides airline service for the 11-county region of Western North Carolina. Asheville Regional Airport recently adopted a 20-year master plan to handle the increased traffic that is expected as growth continues in the region continues. The

| Newcomers guide

an environmental function by providing buffers for area creeks in order to improve water quality, filter runoff, control flooding and preserve wildlife habitats. Fletcher is also home to the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center, an exhibition facility with two arenas – one a 65,000-square-foot indoor facility and the other a 45,000-square-foot covered facility – that include show rings and exhibit space. Celebrating 17 years in 2010, the North Carolina Mountain State Fair takes place in Fletcher each September. The agriculturally focused fair also provides plenty of family-friendly activities, including a petting zoo, animal displays and amusement park rides. Visitors also enjoy more than 50 crafts people selling their wares. The fair brings in nearly 200,000 visitors from throughout the Southeast over the course of its 10-day run and provides an estimated $3 million economic impact for Fletcher. The town also gathers to celebrate during the holidays for the annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony at Fletcher Community Park, featuring carolers, musicians and an appearance by Santa Claus himself. Other community events include the Easter Egg Hunt every spring and the Children’s Halloween Carnival in the fall.

Mountian music.

plan calls for improvements and expansions to current facilities, including a $20 million investment over the next five years. Most recently, Asheville Regional Airport expanded its baggage claim area and added an art to its gallery for visitors to enjoy. Covering about 6 square miles straddling Henderson and Buncombe counties, Fletcher is located about 2,112 feet above sea level. Its terrain includes gently rolling hills and the French Broad River and Cane Creek add to the town’s lovely landscape. On Howard Gap Road, Fletcher Community Park covers 60 acres that include two playgrounds, 1.5 miles of walking trails, soccer and baseball fields, a concession stand, a horseshoe area and picnic areas. Kate’s Park, located off U.S. Highway 25 and Cane Creek Road adjacent to the Fletcher Library, offers a paved walking trail, two playgrounds, picnic tables and a covered pavilion. The Town of Fletcher also has an ambitious goal: to connect the entire town with a network of trails. If successful, Fletcher will be the first town in the Southeast to accomplish this goal. The town’s master greenway plan includes 13 miles of trails — some of which trace Cane and Hooper creeks — that connect to parks, neighborhoods and schools. Beyond creating a sense of community, the greenway system will also attract visitors eager to travel by trail rather than by car. In addition to the endless recreational opportunities the greenway system will afford Fletcher residents, it also serves

Photos Courtesy of North Carolina Mountain State Fair

deally situated between Asheville and Hendersonville, the town of Fletcher is poised for growth. In fact, since incorporating in 1989, its population has steadily increased, to approximately 6,500 residents. Dozens of new residential developments in the works ensure that Fletcher’s population will continue to climb. Just 13 miles south of Asheville off U.S. Highway 25 and convenient to Interstate 26, Fletcher is perhaps best known as the site of Asheville Regional Airport, which

Welcome

Arden | Mills River

Arden, Mills River

High Falls on the Mills River, near the Pink Beds area, Pisgah National Forest.

Photo Courtesy of WNCoutdoors

s Asheville and Hendersonville continue to grow, the small towns that lie between them are attracting new residents who prefer a more laid-back way of life. The unincorporated town of Arden is located in southern Buncombe County near the Henderson County line, about 10 miles south of Asheville on U.S. Highway 25. The town is a blend of established neighborhoods and new construction, offering a variety of real estate choices. Newcomers are particularly drawn to its spacious homes on large lots and its reputation for quality schools. Among them is Glen Arden Elementary School, which earned the School of Excellence recognition by the Public Schools of North Carolina for eight years in a row. This means that 90 percent of its students achieved at or above grade level on end-ofyear tests. Only one other school in the state has attained this status. Glen Arden first opened in 1971, but was expanded in 2001 due to the area’s growing population. Dating back to 1847, the Blake House Inn Bed and Breakfast is one of the oldest houses in the area, displaying Gothic inspired Italianate architecture with 12- to 14-foot ceilings on the first and second floors. The Blake House Inn provides its guests with two dining rooms, a parlor and breakfast room. Three guest rooms that are original to the house and two other guest rooms that were added in the early 20th century are located on the second floor, each with its own private bathroom. The house hosts craft weekends throughout the year and is a popular spot for weddings and other special events. Jake Rusher Park – formerly known as Royal Pines Park – offers a huge playground, basketball and volleyball courts, picnic sites, a gazebo and walking trail. The park was named after the man who owned and managed the park for 30 years. The unincorporated community of Skyland is located off U.S. Highway 25, about

8 miles south of downtown Asheville and about 3 miles south of Biltmore Forest. Skyland is home to Lake Julian, a “thermal” lake that is used as a cooling agent for Progress Energy, a utility company. The lake is also a county park and an ideal spot for outdoor activities including canoeing, kayaking and picnicking. Lake Julian is regarded as an excellent lake for fishing – particularly bass, catfish, brim, crappie, as well as an imported fish called talapia. Residents of Buncombe County can rent picnic shelters for special events and johnboats are also available for rent to take out on the lake. In addition, 10 campsites within the park are located along the lakeshore. Each campsite includes a tent pad, table and grill, and a community bathhouse provides bathrooms and showers. Formerly known as the Skyland Recreation Center, the Zeugner Center features an indoor pool and multi-purpose room. The center also provides educational pro-

grams and classes for kids and adults. Also unincorporated, the community of Fairview is located halfway between Asheville and Chimney Rock on U.S. Highway 74A. About 2,700 people live in Fairview, which was first settled in the late 18th century. At the time, the town was called Cane Creek before it was renamed in the early 1800s. Cane Creek Baptist Church – now known as Fairview Baptist Church – was established in 1806 and is one of the oldest churches in Buncombe County. In recent years, Fairview has seen plenty of new residential developments, many offering large lots and community amenities. Cane Creek Pool in Fairview also includes soccer fields, a picnic shed and a concession stand. Positioned in both Henderson and Transylvania counties, Mills River is named after a tributary of the French Broad River. The incorporated town of about 6,600 residents is located in western Henderson County near Etowah and Fletcher. Mills River was first settled in the late 18th century and many of the town’s residents are direct descendants of the original settlers who still own the land. The town incorporated in 2003 in order to have more control over development and to protect farmland, homes and local businesses. Since incorporating, Mills River has been able to manage how land is divided and zoned by implementing regulations on developers. Part of the Henderson County Library System, the Mills River Library opened off Boylston Highway in 2005. Run entirely by volunteers, the library offers more than 4,000 books, as well as CDs and DVDs. Located near the entrance to the Pisgah National Forest, the Mills River Recreational Area is a popular day-use area for hikers, fishermen and mountain bikers. With about 32 level campsites and a picnic area, the North Mills River Campground is open year-round. Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Polk County

Pearson’s Falls on the Pacolet river near Saluda, Polk County, North Carolina, USA.

bout 40 miles south of Asheville in Polk County, the town of Tryon sits at the base of the Saluda Grade – the steepest standard-gauge railway grade in the country at an elevation of 1,067 feet. Incorporated in 1885, the town is named after North Carolina’s Colonial Gov. William Tryon, who served from 1764 to 1771. The Lanier Library, which opened in 1890, remains Tryon’s oldest civic organization still in operation. With its motto of “The Friendliest Town in the South,” Tryon is home to about 1,700 residents, a number that is expected to grow in the next few years due to annexation and development. The Foothills Equestrian Center, a 380-acre education and recreational center, provides programs in nature study, outdoor recreation and equestrian competition. The center provides 6 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, and a nature pond with a boardwalk. The Equestrian Center features three lighted show rings, spectator seating and stables to house more than 300 horses. The Blue Ridge Barbecue Festival, held at Harmon Field, is the largest festival in Polk County. In fact, the Travel Channel recognized it as 5th on its list of the World’s Best Barbecue Contests.

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Rockhouse Vineyards, a family-owned winery in Tryon, is one of several in the area, producing award-winning chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon and merlot, as well as other varieties. A lovely rock house is used as the tasting area. As the county seat of Polk County, Columbus is located north of Tryon, near the intersection of Interstate 26 and U.S. Highway 74. With approximately 1,000 residents, the town was specifically built to serve as the county seat because of its location at the geographical center of the county. The 100-acre plot of land was divided into lots, some for civic buildings and others for private landowners. The money raised from selling the private lots ended up funding the construction of public buildings. Columbus incorporated in 1857. The highlight of Columbus is the Polk County Courthouse, which was built in 1859 and remains in use today. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the courthouse underwent a significant restoration project that began in 1999. The Progressive Farmer magazine has recognized Polk County among the top 10 Best Places to Live in Rural America, citing its dedication to maintaining its roots and farmland rather than succumbing to widespread development. Green Creek Winery is run by a Polk

County native who learned the wine industry in Sonoma Valley before opening his own winery here several years ago. On a 30-acre site, the Green River Vineyards and Bed & Breakfast offers its guests the opportunity to explore the vineyards, which produce a variety of grapes, or enjoy the scenery of the Green River. Although it’s considered a city, just under 600 people live in Saluda, which covers part of Polk and Henderson counties. It is named for being at the peak of the Norfolk Southern Railway’s Saluda Grade. The first train climbed the Saluda Grade in 1879 and the popular route brought famous writers, artists and other celebrities here from across the country. Downtown Saluda is known for its impressive art galleries, cafés and restaurants, while its tree-lined streets complement the town’s Victorian homes. Saluda’s business district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beyond its historic buildings, Saluda offers a number of outdoor escapes, such as Green River Cove and Holbert Cove, where you can go fishing, swimming, tubing, kayaking, hiking or picnicking. Pearson’s Falls, a 90-foot waterfall surrounded by 268 acres of forest, is located in Saluda. For a beautiful drive, check out the 10-mile picturesque Pacolet River Scenic Byway, which follows the Pacolet River from Saluda to Tryon.

Photo Courtesy of Foothills Equestrian Nature Center; Inc. FENCE

Photo by Gary Stevens

Polk County

Welcome

Lake Lure

Photo Courtesy of Rumbling Bald Resort

Lake Lure

ake Lure, known for its natural beauty and peaceful vistas, has blossomed from a sleepy town in the heart of Hickory Nut Gorge to a destination for vacationers and second-home buyers looking for a charming getaway destination. Located in Rutherford County, 28 miles southeast of Asheville by way of U.S. 74A, Lake Lure was formed by the Rocky Broad River as it twists its way though Hickory Nut Gorge. With just over 1,000 permanent residents, the 720-acre town boasts one of the most gorgeous manmade lakes in the world, according to National Geographic magazine. While it’s a home for some and a quiet, picturesque getaway for many, Lake Lure’s 21 miles of shoreline has also served as a host for filmmakers hoping to capture the

area’s natural splendor as a backdrop for their movies. “Dirty Dancing,” the 1987 film starring Patrick Swayze, was shot here, as well as Stephen King’s “Firestarter,” with a young Drew Barrymore in the title role. The town’s origins date back to 1902 when Dr. Lucius B. Morse purchased 400 acres of land. That slice of earth would eventually become Chimney Rock Park. Morse continued to buy land – 8,000 acres in total – and hoped to create a year-round resort. His plan was to build a dam on the Rocky Broad River and create a lake that would be the centerpiece for that resort. Lake Lure was incorporated in 1927, a year after the dam was finished. Morse’s vision continues to this day; the town swells from 1,000 to 10,000 residents in the summer and has remained a tourist destination throughout the years.

Fully staffed with lifeguards, the lake’s beach is open to swimmers and sunbathers from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visitors can also take advantage of the picnic area for lazy afternoon lunches or family gatherings, and children and adults alike will enjoy the slide, water cannons and water wars at the beach’s water park. Boats, kayaks, canoes, paddle boats and hydro-bikes are available to rent at Lake Lure Marina, or you can take advantage of many other activities provided by companies offering tubing, waterskiing, wakeboarding and fishing. Boat permits are required for motorized boats. Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure is named after the towering, 2,800-foot peak located on the north side of the lake and offers two 18-hole championship golf courses – the Apple Valley Course and the BaldNewcomers guide |

Mountain Course – both of which received a four-star rating from Golf Digest. Bald Mountain gets its moniker from the rocky cliffs that loom overhead. It was designed in 1968, while the newer, Dan Maples-

“The town of Lake Lure swells from 1,000 to 10,000 residents in the summer and has remained a tourist destination throughout the years.”

designed Apple Valley Course has vacation homes, condominiums and villas for rent. Lots among Rumbling Bald Resort’s

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surrounding communities are available to purchase as well. Guests at Rumbling Bald Resort can take in the lovely views of the lake and golf course while enjoying the delicious food at any of the resort’s restaurants or have a relaxing time at the salon and spa. In the past, many prominent figures such as U.S. presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Calvin Coolidge, author F. Scott Fitzgerald and the master of everything etiquette, Emily Post, have spent time at The 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa. The historic hotel underwent substantial renovations in 2005 to restore its historic charm and original brilliance. The serene setting of the hotel – not to mention the unique combination of modern amenities and elegant antiques and art – make it a popular spot for weddings. With standard hotel rooms, suites and cabins for its guests, the hotel also features exquisite dining and cuisine at the Veranda Restaurant, and visitors can sit back and unwind at the Moose and Goose Lounge. Speaking of relaxing, the on-site spa, Allure, specializes in massage and skin treatment.

Photo Courtesy of Lake Lure Inn & Spa

Lake Lure

Dozens of additional bed and breakfasts, hotels, cottages and campgrounds surround the lake, many of which offer waterfront lodging. Nature lovers and fishermen frequent the shimmering waters of the Rocky Broad River, angling for a variety of trout, bass, crappy and perch. Casting your line in the lake or river requires a state license. Cedar Creek Stables, a public horse riding facility nestled in the beautiful mountains of Lake Lure, offers a diverse array of activities, such as gem mining, fishing, pony rides and guided packing trips all hosted by the stables’ award-winning staff.

Welcome

Chimney Rock | Bat Cave

Chimney Rock, Bat Cave

till mostly rural, Rutherford County is quickly becoming a hot spot for newcomers – particularly for those looking for a vacation or retirement home. With about 64,000 residents, Rutherford County lies at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Its lush landscape features rolling hills, rushing rivers and spectacular views. Many of the county’s small towns are experiencing new development, as luxury communities and resorts have been built here, bolstering the area’s economy. Named for the 315-foot granite monolith that rises above the surrounding valley, the village of Chimney Rock claims just 175 permanent residents. Near Lake Lure off U.S. 74A, Chimney Rock is another popular spot for tourists and vacation homeowners looking for a cool spot to relax during the warm summer months. Covering nearly 1,000 acres, Chimney Rock Park is one of the most frequented destinations in the state, drawing more than 250,000 visitors each year. Lucius B. Morse purchased Chimney

Photo by Ken Wiedemann

Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park has been a tourist destination in western North Carolina since a simple stairway was built to the rock’s summit in 1885. An elevator has been added for a quicker ascent to the 315 foot summit.

Rock and the surrounding 400 acres in 1920, hoping to create a year-round resort. Eventually, he acquired more than 8,000 acres of Hickory Nut Gorge and financed the damming of the Rocky Broad River in order to create the beautiful Lake Lure – the highlight of his resort town. Chimney Rock Park remained in the Morse family for more than a century until it was put up for sale several years ago. The state of North Carolina purchased it in 2007, hoping to preserve its natural beauty for the public and expand it into a state park. In the coming years, the state will continue to acquire land and eventually the park will encompass 3,200 acres. Beyond the granite Chimney Rock, the park includes 3.5 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous. Visitors can climb up to Chimney Rock from the parking lot – an ascent of about 26 stories – or they can choose to take the elevator through the mountainside. Many of these trails lead to some of the park’s other highlights, such as Hickory

Nut Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the East with a drop of 404 feet. Trails lead to the top of the falls and to the bottom, where park-goers can cool their feet after a day of hiking. The Opera Box, located above Chimney Rock, is an enclosed rock formation with a horizontal slit where you can view Lake Lure below. Needle’s Eye, a narrow climb up 185 stairs between two huge rock formations, is a tight squeeze –particularly if you’re claustrophobic. Several films have been shot here, including “The Last of the Mohicans,” starring Daniel Day-Lewis and Madeline Stowe. The climactic last fight scene was shot at the top of Hickory Nut Falls, and several other scenes show the characters walking along the park’s trails. Stephen King’s “Firestarter” and “A Breed Apart,” starring Kathleen Turner, were also shot here, and “Dirty Dancing” was filmed in nearby Lake Lure. Just across the county line in Henderson County, the unincorporated town of Bat Cave is just west of Chimney Rock along U.S. 74A. Located on the Broad River, Bat Cave lies at an elevation of 1,460 feet. As you might imagine, the town was named after a cave inhabited by a huge population of bats and other animals. Spanning 300 feet long and rising 85 feet high, the cave’s main chamber has the feel of a dark cathedral with a cool, moist draft. Bat Cave is the largest known granite fissure cave on the continent. While most caves are formed by dissolving water and scraping rock, fissure caves are formed by rock shifting and earth movements. Owned by the Nature Conservancy’s North Carolina chapter, the cave is a protected site on 186 acres. The forests surrounding the cave are home to endangered plants and animals, including the Indiana bat, Carey’s saxifrage and the broadleaf coreopsis. The Nature Conservancy hopes to preserve the unique formation of the cave along with the surrounding plants and wildlife. Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Brevard

Looking Glass Falls, Pisgah National Forest, Transylvania Country, North Carolina, USA.

t the edge of the Pisgah National Forest, the town of Brevard has a rich tradition in music. For more than 70 years, the Brevard Music Center has gathered some of the finest young musicians in the country to perform together every summer, from mid-June through early August on its 150-acre wooded campus. About 400 students, age 14 through post-college, participate in orchestra ensembles and chamber groups, study music composition and take private lessons. Twothirds of the student body is college age or older, and all students live on campus. Beyond the Brevard Music Center, more than 20 summer camps are located in and around Brevard, due in part to the endless recreational opportunities the area offers. Brevard is also a college town. Affiliated with the Methodist Church, Brevard College was created when Rutherford and Weaver colleges merged in 1934. The fouryear private college is located on 120 acres in downtown Brevard. About 700 students are enrolled at Brevard College, which 44

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offers bachelor’s degrees in 19 majors and pre-professional degrees in law, dentistry, medicine, nursing and veterinary studies. The town was named after Dr. Ephraim Brevard, a Revolutionary War colonel and surgeon who helped draft the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence – regarded as the first declaration of independence made in the colonies and signed on May 20, 1775, in Charlotte. A monument to Brevard stands in front of Brevard’s city hall. Brevard’s thriving downtown includes a variety of shopping options, from major chain stores to specialty shops, as well as fine and casual dining. The tight-knit community celebrates with festivals throughout the year, including an Independence Day celebration on Main Street and a Halloween festival. With about 7,000 residents, Brevard serves as the county seat of Transylvania County, much of which is part of the Pisgah National Forest. The county gets its name from “trans,” meaning “across,” and “sylva,” meaning “woods.” More than 30,000 people live in Transylvania County.

Photo by Gary Stevens

Brevard Brevard’s nickname is “The Land of Waterfalls” because of the many waterfalls in the area, including Looking Glass Falls, Connestee Falls and Sliding Rock. Located off U.S. 176 in the Pisgah National Forest, Looking Glass Falls is named because of the way the sun reflects off the cliff s when the water freezes, similar to a mirror. Nearby, Sliding Rock is a naturally occurring, 60-foot waterslide that descends into a 6- to 7-foot pool. Visitors flock here during the warm summer months to cool off, and more adventurous types enjoy the invigorating plunge even when temperatures cool in the fall. Connestee Falls is part of the Dupont State Forest, which occupies 10,400 acres just east of Brevard and straddles Henderson and Transylvania counties. The park is open year-round for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. The Cradle of Forestry, part of the Pisgah National Forest, was once part of George Vanderbilt’s massive 125,000-acre estate, where forestry conservation was born. The 6,500-acre site commemorates these early efforts to preserve the forest with guided trails, historic buildings and educational programs. Visitors can also learn about forestry conservation through the Forest Discovery Center, which offers hands-on exhibits and a short film about the birth of forestry. Nearby, the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education features educational programs and videos, hands-on exhibits, aquariums, gardens and a paved walkway. The Pisgah National Forest is well regarded for its excellent trout fishing, particularly in the Davidson River, which flows through the forest before merging with the French Broad River near Brevard. In fact, Trout Unlimited named the river among the Top 100 top trout streams in the country. The area along Davidson River also affords opportunities for whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing and camping.

Welcome

Waynesville | Canton

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Waynesville, Canton

s the county seat of Haywood County, Waynesville is also its largest town with about 10,000 residents – a number that continues to grow. Waynesville is the largest town west of Asheville and the third largest in the Asheville MSA, behind Asheville and Hendersonville. Positioned perfectly between the Pisgah National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Waynesville is also just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most of Waynesville lies in a valley about 2,500 to 3,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by peaks approaching 6,000 feet. Located just off Interstate 40, Waynesville is about 30 miles west of Asheville. Although close enough to Asheville to

The real Cold Mountain near Asheville boasts beautiful scenery as described in Charles Frazier’s novel “Cold Mountain.”

attract commuters, Waynesville is also distant enough to maintain a small-town feel and more affordably priced real estate. As a matter of fact, in Where to Retire magazine’s list of America’s 100 Best Places to Retire, Waynesville was called a “low-cost Eden,” the best main street town and best mountain town. Eighteen peaks exceed 6,000 feet in Haywood County, including Cold Mountain, the namesake of Charles Frazier’s novel and the movie that followed. Rising 6,030 feet, Cold Mountain can be viewed from the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 411.8. Those who want a closer look can climb the 2,800 feet from the Daniel Boone Scout Camp to the top. However,

because it is extremely rigorous, the last mile is only recommended for the most experienced hikers. Waynesville was founded in 1809 by Col. Robert Love, a Revolutionary War soldier who donated land for the courthouse, jail and public square. Love also offered up his buddy’s name as the namesake of the town – Gen. “Mad” Anthony Wayne. When Haywood County broke off from Buncombe County, Waynesville was established as the county seat and the town incorporated in 1871. Waynesville also played a key position in the Civil War. After the Confederacy surrendered, the news hadn’t travelled to the remote areas of the North Carolina mountains, where the fighting continued. The last Newcomers guide |

Waynesville | Canton shots of the Civil War were fired near Sulphur Springs – just east of Waynesville – and Gen. James Martin surrendered on May 9, 1865. When the railroad arrived in 1884, Waynesville saw increased development, particularly as the industries of agriculture, lumber and tourism grew. The railroad tracks were laid on a low-lying area of town along Richland Creek that once was swampland and still flooded frequently. For this reason, it was referred to as Frog Level.

Eighteen peaks exceed 6,000 feet in Haywood County, including Cold Mountain, the namesake of Charles Frazier’s novel and the movie that followed. Downtown Waynesville and Frog Level thrived as a commercial center in the early part of the 20th century, as shops and services such as farm suppliers, coal sales and lumber companies – all dependent on the railroad – opened to serve the growing community. And as the train brought visitors and tourists, hotels popped up to accommodate them. However, as in other parts of the country, the automobile became more commonplace and the railroad and surrounding businesses suffered. The last passenger train arrived in Waynesville in 1949, though freight trains continue to travel through Frog Level about twice a day. During the 1980s, the railroad was acquired by the Norfolk Southern Railway system. Once long forgotten – and considered a seedy part of town for decades – Frog Level is now the site of redevelopment efforts by local leaders who strive to make the area a center for commerce once again. Shops and other businesses have opened in many of the area’s historic brick buildings, and Frog Level is now a designated

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National Register Historic District. The Downtown Waynesville organization has been a key player in revitalizing the town’s business district, while recognizing the historic buildings that give the town its character. Waynesville’s very walkable downtown features art galleries, cafes and restaurants, specialty shops and services amid quaint buildings and bricklined sidewalks. In fact, Waynesville’s Main Street is referred to as “gallery row.” Once mostly industrial, West Waynesville is now the site of a new retail development called Waynesville Commons, which is expanding the shopping choices of area residents. The development includes a Super Walmart, Best Buy and Home Depot on the former site of Dayco. Celebrating its 27th year in 2010, the North Carolina International Folk Festival – better known as Folkmoot USA – brings in hundreds of folk dancers and musicians from other countries to celebrate their cultural heritage. During its tenure, more than 200 folk groups from more than 100 countries have shared their culture at Folkmoot USA. In October, the Church Street Art & Craft Show transforms downtown into a marketplace with a festival atmosphere, featuring art and craft vendors, live mountain music and dancing, entertainment and food. Built in 1875, the Shelton House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts is established here, featuring 19thcentury crafts and furniture, Native American artifacts and displays from the North Carolina State Fair’s Village of Yesterday. Also housed within the Shelton House, the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre (HART) was established in 1984 as the Haywood Arts Repertory Theatre on Main Street in downtown Waynesville before moving to the Shelton House in 1997. As the most active theater company in the region, the group produces a year-round series of plays and musicals. Covering 20 acres, Vance Street Park features a 64,000-square-foot recreation center with an indoor pool and youth pool play area. The park also includes a walking trail, fishing pier on a state-supported trout stream, soft ball field, sand volleyball court, paved running track, two soccer fields and a picnic shelter. Recreation Park includes six tennis

courts, two softball fields, outdoor basketball courts, two covered shelters, picnic areas and a multi-use trail. Pepsi Dog Park offers two separate areas for dogs under 20 pounds and over 20 pounds. Waynesville’s greenway system is a 4.8mile network of trails along Richland and Raccoon creeks that connect neighborhoods to parks, schools and shopping centers. Lake Junaluska, a 200-acre lake, lies just north of Waynesville. The area is home to the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, which is the headquarters of the World Methodist Council. Museums on site capture the history of the Methodist faith and founder John Wesley. Laurel Ridge is a luxury community surrounding the Laurel Ridge Country Club, which features an 18-hole, Bob Cupp-designed golf course with spectacular views. Laurel Ridge also offers a heated pool with a waterfall, clay tennis courts, a 6,000-square-foot pavilion, a restaurant within its clubhouse and a pro shop. Between Waynesville and Asheville lies Canton, a town of about 4,000 residents that is located on the banks of the Pigeon River. Capturing Canton’s scenic beauty, the town’s motto is, “Where the Mountains Kiss the Sky.” Founded in 1889 as Buford, the town’s name was changed to Pigeon Ford two years later, then Canton two years after that. Canton is the headquarters of the Evergreen Packaging, one of the country’s largest producers of paper products, which employs more than 2,000 workers. The Pigeon River Scenic Walking Trail traces 1.5 miles along the river with benches for walkers to enjoy the scenery, as well as a boat access ramp. One of Canton’s historic structures is the Colonial Theatre, which first opened in 1932 specifically to show films. With Colonial Revival architecture and a gable roofline, the Colonial Theatre also maintains its historic interior features such as its original swirled stucco walls and antique light fixtures. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Canton is home to the Old Pressley Sapphire Mine, made famous for the 1,445-carat sapphire – called “Star of the Carolinas” – that is one of the largest in the world. Visitors can mine and learn how gemstones are formed.

Welcome

Maggie Valley | Cataloochee

Photo Courtesy of Brian Stansberry

Maggie Valley, Cataloochee

nown as a recreational escape, the resort area of Maggie Valley provides outdoor adventure throughout the year – from hiking, rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and horseback riding during the summer months to skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing in the winter. Located in northwest Haywood County on U.S. 19, Maggie Valley was settled during the 19th century and named after the original postmaster’s 14-year-old daughter, though the town didn’t incorporate until 1974. About 800 residents live here permanently, but the population swells with the

Maggie Valley, North Carolina, USA, viewed from the summit of Waterrock Knob (el. 6,292ft/1,918m).

constant influx of tourists. Maggie Valley is just three miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway and close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cataloochee Valley, part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, attracts visitors with its ski slopes, horseback riding and restored elk population. Once populous in the valley, the Cataloochee elk disappeared from this area about 150 years ago. In 2000, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation reintroduced elk to the Cataloochee Valley, and the population has continued to grow. Visitors can see the elk along with their baby calves,

particularly around the beginning of the summer. At the top of Fie Top Mountain, Cataloochee Ranch is an authentic “dude ranch” that provides 1,000 acres of outdoor fun, such as horseback riding, hiking, fishing and pack trips. Guests can stay at the main lodge or in cabins. Cataloochee Ski Area was established as the first ski resort in the state. At a peak elevation of 5,400 feet, Cataloochee is typically the first ski resort to open and the last to close. With 10 slopes ranging from beginner to expert, Cataloochee Ski Area offers a quad lift, a triple lift, Newcomers guide |

Known as a recreational escape, the resort area of Maggie Valley provides outdoor adventure throughout the year – from hiking, rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and horseback riding during the summer months to skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing in the winter.

a double lift and two conveyor lifts. A double-sided fireplace in the lodge is a popular spot for skiers to toast their toes after a day on the slopes. Another tourist spot, the Wheels Through Time museum displays more than 300 rare antique All-American automobiles and motorcycles with more than 24 marquees on display including HarleyDavidson, Indian and Excelsior. The Cherokee Indian Reservation is just west of Maggie Valley, adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. “Unto These Hills,” one of the longest running outdoor dramas in the country, depicts the history of the Cherokee people, from the height of their civilization to the Trail of Tears, when they were driven out of North Carolina and forced to endure the 1,200-mile trek to Oklahoma. Visitors can also learn about Cherokee history and culture at the Cherokee Museum or shop for Cherokee craft s and artifacts at Ocanaluftee Indian Village. Owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Hotel complex includes a 15-story

Photo by Brian Stansberry

Maggie Valley | Cataloochee

Cataloochee Trail historical marker.

luxury hotel with 576 rooms and 21 suites, a 15,000-square-foot conference center, three restaurants, and a variety of entertainment and gaming opportunities. With a reputation for excellent fishing – particularly trout fishing – Maggie Valley is the site of the annual Great Smoky Mountain Trout Festival in either May or June. Celebrating 21 years in 2010, the festival includes fly-fishing instruction by expert fishermen, environmental exhibits, live music, food, arts and crafts.

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Welcome

Jackson County | Cashiers

Jackson County, Cashiers

has a significant impact on the economy of Jackson County. USA Today has named the park “One of the Ten Great Places in North America to Explore Geologic Wonders.” The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, a 53-mile trek through the mountains’ peaks, river gorges and fertile valleys, passes through Jackson County. As the railroad transformed so much of Western North Carolina during Photo Courtesy of High Hampton Inn

urrounded by the natural beauty of the Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Jackson County is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the Southeast. Established in 1851 from parts of Haywood and Macon counties, Jackson County was named after President Andrew Jackson. Since then, portions of Jackson County have been merged with other counties to create Transylvania and Swain counties. Characterized by a landscape of peaks and valleys, Jackson County’s elevations range from 2,000 to 6,000 feet, drawing thousands of tourists each year to enjoy its natural beauty. At the same time, Jackson County is also attracting new residents who are here to stay. More than 36,000 people make their home here. Spread out over more than 530,000 acres in seven counties, the Nantahala National Forest is the largest of North Carolina’s four national forests, ranging in elevation from 1,200 feet to 5,800 feet at Lone Bald in Jackson County. “Nantahala” is a Cherokee Indian word meaning “Land of the Noonday Sun,” a name given to the area because its deep gorges only receive sunlight at high noon. The forest is home to the Nantahala River, rated the No. 1 water tourist destination in the country by National Geographic magazine. It attracts more than 250,000 paddlers each year. Considered the state’s best stream for trout fishing, the Tuckaseegee River also winds through Jackson County and is also a popular spot for kayaking and whitewater rafting. Northwest of Jackson County, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country, covering 814 square miles. The park draws more than 9 million visitors each year, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. The influx of tourists to the Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

the 19th and 20th centuries, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad takes visitors along the western leg of the route known as Murphy Branch, which includes 25 bridges and two tunnels. In fact, it was the film site for the famous train scene in “The Fugitive,” starring Harrison Ford. Additionally, the films “Deliverance” and “My Fellow Americans” were also shot in Jackson County. Nature lovers can enjoy more than 125 varieties of trees, 1,000 species of flowering plants, 200 kinds of birds and 100 species of fish and animals. Parallel to the railroad, the Great Smoky Mountain Expressway is a four-lane divided highway that stretches from Canton in Haywood County west to Needmore in Swain County. U.S. 74 follows the expressway for its entire length, with U.S. highways 19, 23 and 441 also following the route intermittently. The Jackson County Green Energy Park is a sustainable-energy development in Dillsboro that captures methane gas from an old landfill and converts it into energy to fuel everything from artist studios to greenhouses to a biodiesel refinery. The Environmental Protection Agency recognized

it as the Landfill Program Project of the Year. Each year, the Green Energy Park prevents 222 tons of methane from entering the atmosphere and offsets 550 tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted by the use of fossil fuels – the equivalent of removing nearly 1,000 vehicles from the road. Sylva, the county seat of Jackson County, is home to about 2,500 residents. The town’s Pinnacle Park covers 1,100 acres, where visitors can hike to the peak, at an elevation of 5,000 feet, and view the town below. Southwestern Community College is located in Sylva, offering more than 50 degree, certificate and diploma programs. Just west of Sylva, the tiny town of Dillsboro claims just over 200 residents. Once known as New Webster, Dillsboro was named after William Allen Dills, the town’s founder, in 1889. Dillsboro is known for its unique shops, restaurants and inns for those who pass through. At an elevation of 3,500 feet, the unincorporated village of Cashiers is surrounded by 5,000-foot mountain peaks. With more than 200 permanent residents, the population swells to 20,000 from May to October as tourists come here to enjoy the scenery, recreation and cooler temperatures. A number of historic sites are located in Cashiers, including Camp Merrie-Woode, a girls camp dating back to 1918; the Church of the Good Shepherd, a 19th-century Episcopal church; and the High Hampton Inn, a resort that has been welcoming guests since 1922. Lake Glenville, also known as Thorpe Reservoir, is the highest-elevation lake east of the Mississippi at 3,942 feet. Attracting second homeowners during the summer months, Lake Glenville covers 1,500 acres and offers 26 miles of shoreline. Cullowhee, an unincorporated town of about 3,900 residents, is best known as the home of Western Carolina University. More than 9,400 undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled at the school, which offers 220 majors and 40 graduate programs. Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Weaverville | Barnardsville

Weaverville, Barnardsville

| Newcomers guide

Photo by Ken Thomas

ith more than 2,600 residents, Weaverville enjoys the pastoral landscape and laid-back life of a small town. In fact, for the past 19 years, the town has been named a Tree City U.S.A. every year for its dedication to preserving its tree canopy. Located in northern Buncombe County, Weaverville lies just 10 miles north of Asheville via U.S. 19/23. Although many of its residents work in Asheville, Weaverville prides itself on having its own healthy economy – a diverse blend of industries that includes manufacturing, tourism and art studios. Once considered part of the Cherokee Territory, the area of Weaverville was first settled by pioneers during the 18th century. As Asheville grew, Weaverville also thrived, attracting visitors with its pleasant climate to stay in its grand hotels, such as the Dula Springs Hotel and Blackberry Lodge. Although the grand hotels of yesteryear are gone, bed and breakfasts – such as the Dry Ridge Inn, Inn on Main Street and the Secret Garden Inn & Spa – continue to thrive in Weaverville. During the late 19th century and early 20th century, Weaverville was shaped by Weaverville College, a Methodist school, before it closed in the 1930s. Writer O. Henry, who penned “The Gift of the Magi,” spent some of his last days in Weaverville, getting healthy before returning to New York City, when his health deteriorated and he passed away from cirrhosis of the liver. O. Henry is buried at Riverside Cemetery in Asheville. The Zebulon Baird Vance Birthplace, located here, is a pioneer farmstead that includes a five-room log house and outbuildings from the early 19th century that recognizes Vance’s prolific career as a Civil War officer, North Carolina governor and U.S. senator. Created in 1910 as Lake Juanita, the renamed Lake Louise provides Weaverville residents with a tranquil place to relax. Surrounding the lake is Lake Louise Park

Looking down from the Blue Ridge Parkway near Craggy Gardens.

with picnic tables and shelters, grills, playgrounds, a fitness area and a walking trail. Held the last weekend in April and again the first weekend in November, the Weaverville Art Safari brings visitors to the town to celebrate its local artists. The event helps facilitate self-guided tours through various galleries and studios throughout Weaverville, Barnardsville and Alexander. Another art festival, Art in Autumn, made its debut in 2007. Held on Main Street in downtown Weaverville, the event showcases more than 100 artists and craftspeople along with live music and food. About 10 miles northeast of Weaverville in the northern part of Buncombe County, Barnardsville offers a natural escape amid the Pisgah National Forest and some of the highest peaks along the East Coast. With about 1,700 residents, Barnardsville once was an incorporated town but it disincorporated in 1970. The town is tucked off N.C. 197 and

offers some of the most scenic vistas in Western North Carolina. Also near Barnardsville, Craggy Gardens is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 364.4. Visitors are drawn here during the months of June and July to view the Catawba rhododendron and other wildflowers in full bloom. The area has a visitors center with exhibits, an 86-site picnic area and hiking trails with beautiful views. The Big Ivy Historical Society, based in Barnardsville, preserves the culture of the area through special events, including a Christmas bazaar, home tour and heritage festival. The organization is working on Big Ivy Historical Park on the site of a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps camp and includes a pre-Civil War cabin and related outbuildings. The Hawk and Ivy, a holistic bed and breakfast in Barnardsville, is housed in a restored 1910 farmhouse surrounded by organic gardens.

Welcome

Mars Hill

amed after a biblical hill, the town of Mars Hill is a largely rural community located about 17 miles north of Asheville. With almost 2,400 residents, Mars Hill sits at about 2,360 feet in elevation. Once isolated, the area has seen increased growth as its rustic mountain roads have been improved and expanded. Among these is U.S. 19/23, the new Interstate 26 extension that stretches to Johnson City, Tenn.

“Mars Hill College is the oldest educational institution in Western North Carolina still located on its original site.”

Mars Hill grew up as a college town. In 1856, a group of local citizens established the French Broad Baptist Institute with just 35 students. Three years later, the school was chartered by the North Carolina General Assembly and named after a biblical hill that the apostle Paul stood on during his trip to Athens, Greece. Today, Mars Hill College is the oldest educational institution in Western North Carolina still located on its original site. With about 1,275 students, Mars Hill College is affiliated with the North Carolina Baptist Convention, offering 30 majors, 31 minors and a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1. The 194-acre campus blends its historic buildings with new structures, in-

cluding the brick two-story Founders Hall, which was erected in 1892, and the more modern Blackwell Hall. The school also offers 19 NCAA Division II athletic teams and 43 clubs and organizations such as music, theater, student government and social clubs. Located on the campus of Mars Hill College, the Rural Life Museum exhibits and preserves historical and cultural artifacts of Southern Appalachia. The museum hosts tours, lectures and workshops to teach visitors about rural life in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each fall, Mars Hill celebrates its cultural heritage with the Bascom Lamar Lunsford Festival, a daylong event with performances by regional musicians and dancers. The festival is named for Lunsford – known as the “Minstrel of Appalachia” – a musician who performed for President Franklin Roosevelt as well as for England’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. As a folklorist and banjo player, Lunsford longed to preserve the region’s rich culture and started this festival in 1967. Held on the campus of Mars Hill College, the event features bluegrass bands, ballad singers, traditional string bands, square dancers, cloggers and yodelers. Most of Lunsford’s instruments, manuscripts and recordings are archived at Mars Hill College. Established in 1975, the Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre (SART) is an award-winning theater company based in Mars Hill. The main stage season runs during the summer months at Owens Theatre on the Mars Hill College campus and includes a variety of plays and musicals. On Saturday mornings from April through October, the Madison County Farmers and Artisans Market brings in more than 20 vendors to Mars Hill to display and sell their locally grown produce, baked goods, craft work and artistry, while local musicians perform for the crowd. Mountin’ Hopes Therapeutic Riding

Photo Courtesy of Scenic Wolf Resort

Mars Hill

Wolf Resort.

Center, based in Mars Hill, is a nonprofit organization operated almost entirely by volunteers. The center provides horse riding sessions for adults and children with disabilities, illnesses or injuries, with the understanding that the relationship between human and horse has therapeutic qualities. Located a few miles northeast of Mars Hill, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort provides family-oriented skiing, snowboarding and tubing for all skill levels. At about 4,700 feet in elevation, Wolf Ridge includes 82 acres of ski terrain with two quad chairlifts, two double chairlifts and one surface lift. Two beautiful lodges offer cozy comfort on a grand scale. The 22,000-square-foot Upper Wolf Ridge Lodge is located at the top of the slopes and includes a massive fireplace for guests to warm up. The lodge offers spectacular views of the mountains and valleys below. Lower Wolf Ridge Lodge is more rustic and includes the Wolf Ridge Grill, which serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy the three fireplaces and large viewing deck to watch the skiers brave the slopes. Scenic Wolf Resort offers rentals of rustic log cabins with several bedrooms, full kitchens, fireplaces and wraparound porches with gorgeous mountain views. The resort also has a glass-enclosed heated pool that is open year-round. Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Marshall | Hot Springs

ith its pastoral landscape, the small town of Marshall is appealing to those who prefer a tranquil setting and slower pace of life. About 20 miles north of Asheville via U.S. 25/70, Marshall is located on the banks of the French Broad River between Weaverville and Hot Springs. When Scotch and Irish immigrants first settled here, the town was called Lapland. Madison County was formed in 1851 from sections of Buncombe and Yancey counties, and the town was established as the county seat. It was later named after U.S. Chief Justice John Marshall. Its natural mountain landscape has made it a perfect site for filmmakers and has been featured in “My Fellow Americans” and “All the Real Girls.” In recent years, many of Marshall’s historic buildings have been restored and 52

| Newcomers guide

Photo Courtesy of Development Association of Marshall

Marshall, Hot Springs transformed into art galleries, studios, coffee shops and apartments. Part of the town’s historic district, the Madison County Courthouse on Main Street is a two-story Neoclassical Revival brick building that was constructed in 1906. The courthouse features a four-stage polygonal cupola that is considered one of the finest in North Carolina. The dome-shaped roof features clocks on its alternate faces. Another piece of history, the Marshall Train Depot is a restored train station where local musicians play every Friday night. Formed in 1978, the Madison County Arts Council is headquartered in downtown Marshall and is an active community arts organization that promotes local artists, craftspeople and musicians and also hosts festivals and sponsors educational programs. The resort town of Hot Springs is located where the French Broad River meets Spring Creek. Here, a natural hot spring that gave the town its name provides therapeutic qualities for those who bathe in its waters. Native Americans first recognized the more-than-100-degrees spring waters for their healing qualities, and European settlers were using the spring as far back as 1778. When the Buncombe Turnpike – a superhighway that connected Tennessee and Kentucky to the East Coast – was built in 1828, the springs became more accessible and tourists flocked to the town, then known as Warm Springs. In 1837, the 350-room Warm Springs Hotel was built with 13 large columns representing the original 13 colonies. Its massive dining room could seat 600 people. The hotel burned to the ground in 1884. Two years later, Mountain Park Hotel opened as one of the most lavish resorts in the Southeast, featuring 16 marble pools surrounded by landscaped lawns, but it also burned in 1920. Although two more hotels were built in its place, none

achieved the grand scale and opulence of Warm Springs or Mountain Park. Yet, Hot Springs remains a hub for visitors, with dozens of hotels, quaint bed and breakfasts, and cottages and cabins along the French Broad River. The springs are privately owned and operated as part of the Hot Springs Resort and Spa, which features mineral baths along

“The historic village of Marshall, nestled between rocky cliffs and the scenic French Broad River, celebrates its colorful past while passionately embracing the contemporary.”

the banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River. The resort offers four lavish suites, eight cabins, a campground and an array of spa services. Adding to Hot Springs’ appeal, the 2,100- mile Appalachian Trail runs right through downtown along Bridge Street, and the French Broad River is a popular spot for kayaking and whitewater rafting. Each April, Hot Springs hosts Trailfest, a celebration of the Appalachian Trail that includes music, food, outdoor activities, arts and crafts. To see the rural landscape of Madison and Buncombe counties, take a drive along the French Broad River Scenic Highway – officially known as N.C. 251 – which weaves through farmland and forest along the French Broad River.

Welcome

Yancey County

Yancey County for recreating the legendary hospitality of the North Carolina mountains with the traditions and recipes from the last 200 years. Founded in 1976, the Toe River Arts Council promotes the arts in Yancey and Mitchell counties – both for residents of those counties and for tourists coming in to enjoy the galleries, craft work, performing arts and cultural sites. The Parkway Playhouse is the oldest operating community theater in the state, founded in 1947. The John Wesley McElroy House, built in the 1840s, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Covering 3,000 square feet, the house was built by McElroy for his wife, Catherine. While McElroy served as a brigadier general in the Confederate Army, the house served as a hospital and headquarters for the home guard. State senator and former Union Army captain William Moore purchased the house in 1889, and the Moore family lived there until 1917 when it became the first post office in town. By the 1970s, the home had fallen into disrepair, but was saved when the Yancey History Association purchased the house in 1987, restored it and opened it as a museum in 2003. Today, the John Wesley McElroy House displays historical exhibits and period furniture. As the highest peak in the Eastern United States, Mount Mitchell rises 6,684 feet above sea level. The mountain is named after University of North Carolina professor Elisha Mitchell, who measured its height in 1835 in order to verify its position as the tallest mountain along the East Coast. Mitchell fell to his death at a nearby waterfall in 1857 and was buried at the summit of Mount Mitchell. The peak is surrounded by 1,946-acre Mount Mitchell State Park, which was established in 1915. The park includes several other peaks exceeding 6,000 feet, such as Mount Hallback, Mount Craig, Big Tom and Balsam Cone. About eight miles of hiking trails cut through the park, offering terrific views and leading to most of the park’s mountain peaks.

Ranked as one of the top 10 public courses in the state by North Carolina Magazine and has received a 4 ½ star rating by Golf Digest for “Places to Play”, the Mount Mitchell Golf Club offers a relatively flat course with lovely views of Mount Mitchell. Called the “mile-high sanctuary,” the Mountain Air Country

Photo by Ken Thomas

ith just over 18,000 residents, Yancey County is one of the most sparsely populated counties in Western North Carolina. Its motto is “The Heart of the Blue Ridge.” Yancey County was established in 1833 when it was formed from parts of Burke and Buncombe counties. Its namesake is Bartlett Yancey, a U.S. Congressman and speaker of the North Carolina Senate. Yancey was an advocate for forming additional counties in Western North Carolina in order to gain equal representation in the General Assembly, but he died five years before the county named after him was formed. Yancey is also known for creating an education fund that eventually became the state’s public school system. There are 11 townships in Yancey County: Burnsville, Green Mountain, Jacks Creek, Cane River, Pensacola, Crabtree, Egypt, Price’s Creek, Brush Creek, Ramseytown and South Toe. In 1834, the town of Burnsville was specifically carved out to become the county seat and named in honor of Capt. Otway Burns, a War of 1812 naval hero who fought to create the new county in Western North Carolina. A statue of Burns stands in the town’s public square, Bailey Square, and was a gift to the town from Burns’ grandson, Walter Burns Sr. The inscription reads in part, “He Guarded Well Our Seas, Let Our Mountains Honor Him.” About 1,650 residents live in Burnsville, which is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and the arts. Located in the heart of downtown, the Nu Wray Inn is one of the oldest continuously operating inns in Western North Carolina. Built in 1833, the inn has housed a number of famous guests, including Elvis Presley, Thomas Wolfe, Mark Twain, O. Henry and Christopher Reeve. The Nu Wray Inn has 26 guest rooms and six suites, and visitors enjoy a full breakfast as part of their guest package. The Inn is located on the south side of historic downtown and is known

Looking southwest from the observation tower atop Mount Mitchell in Yancey County, North Carolina, USA. At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell isn’t just the highest point in the Appalachians, it’s also the highest peak in North America east of the Mississippi.

Club is located atop the placid Blue Ridge Mountains, just 35 miles from Asheville, at an elevation 4,919 feet, and is considered one of the most scenic courses in the country. Mountain Air earned its ranking in Barron’s magazine as one of the “Top 20 Places to Retire in the World.” Held the last Saturday in April, the Burnsville Metric is a 59-mile cycle race through some of the most scenic roads in the high country. Starting in Burnsville’s town square, the race traverses the Cane and Toe rivers, and the last leg features spectacular views of Mount Mitchell, Roan Mountain and other peaks. The Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair, celebrating its 54th anniversary in 2010, is the oldest and largest crafts fair in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The two-day festival, held in August, has been recognized by the Southern Tourism Society as one of the top 20 events in the Southeast. Newcomers guide |

Welcome W

The Western North Carolina Farmers’ Market is one of the area’s popular attractions.

estern North Carolina communities cherish their natural environment, from the crisp mountain air to the clear rushing rivers to the many farms that flourish in its fertile valleys. The concept of sustainable living refers to a lifestyle devoted to reducing the consumption of the Earth’s natural resources. Followers seek to reduce their ecological footprints. This can be accomplished by recycling as a way to reduce waste, walking or biking to reduce oil consumption and gas emissions, and by using the land to growing your own food. Dozens of farmers markets throughout Western North Carolina provide locally grown produce, plants and craft work. At the same time, area residents – as well as tourists – recognize the need to support local growers and vendors. By purchasing food and other items from a farmers market, you reduce the distance it needs to be transported, significantly decreasing the amount of pollution. 54

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The Western North Carolina Farmers Market is one of five markets owned by the state of North Carolina and is operated by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. It is open seven days a week throughout the year on a 36- acre site that offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, craft work, jams and jellies, and plants and trees. On the grounds of the farmers market, the Moose Cafe offers up country cooking with farm-fresh produce straight from the market. The Mountain Tailgate Association, is composed of farmer and vendor-only markets in Buncombe and Madison counties. They seek to promote local farmers markets, fresh food and craft work by the region’s farmers, artisans, bakers, food processors and others who produce items sold by local vendors. The Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project seeks to provide nutritious food by promoting buying locally grown, environmentally friendly food. Among the

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Sustainable Living reasons to buy local include eating fresher food, preserving the farm culture, protecting the environment’s natural beauty, encouraging sustainable agriculture and strengthening the local economy. Many of the grocery stores in the region offer a variety of natural food items. Greenlife Grocery provides healthy, locally grown food with no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives or hydrogenated oils. The Mountain Tailgate Association operates a tailgate market outside Greenlife Grocery on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Earth Fare, a natural food store chain with locations throughout the Southeast, is based in Asheville. Committed to offering only natural foods, Earth Fare provides products without artificial flavors, preservatives, growth stimulants, hydrogenated oils, pesticides and genetically modified organisms. Asheville Independent Restaurant Association was formed in 2002 to promote locally owned independent restaurants in Asheville. The organization focuses on how its restaurants are involved with the community. Part of this includes using locally grown produce to support local farmers, as well as providing the freshest food. Slow Food Asheville is an organization dedicated to slowing down the fast pace of consuming food that is so prevalent in our culture. Slow Food Asheville encourages people to slow down and enjoy the ritual of dining. Green building is one of the most innovative aspects of sustainable living. The goal is to create a home that consumes less energy by maximizing the efficiency of using its resources, including water and energy, as well as reducing the amount of waste. Green home builders focus on the design of the home, materials used to build the home and where the home is sited. The Western North Carolina Green

Sustainable Living

Area Farmers Markets Asheville City Market

Hendersonville County Curb Market

Tailgate Market

Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (through mid-December) 161 S. Charlotte St., Asheville 828-348-0340 www.asapconnections.org/citymarket.html

Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (April – December) Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (January – March) Church St. (U.S. 25 S.), Hendersonville 828-692-8012

Open Wednesdays, 2-6:30 p.m. 76 Biltmore Ave., Asheville 828-683-1607

Asheville City Market South Open Wednesdays, 2-6 p.m. Town Square Blvd., Asheville 828-348-0340 www.asapconnections.org/citymarket.html

Big Ivy Tailgate Market Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to Noon (May – October) 1679 Barnardsville Highway www.buyappalachian.org/listing/bid-ivytailgate-market

Black Mountain Tailgate Market Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to Noon (May – August) 130 Montreat Blvd.828-664-0060 www.blackmountaintailgatemarket.org

Canton Tailgate Market Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 7 a.m. to Noon, Thursdays 4-7 p.m. 58 Park St., Canton 828-235-2760 www.buyappalachian.org/listingcantontailgate-market

French Broad Food Co-op Saturday Tailgate Market Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Wednesdays 2-6:30 p.m. 76 Biltmore Ave., Asheville 828-649-9259

Jackson County Farmers Market Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to Noon (May – October) Railroad Avenue, Sylva 828-507-1146

Transylvania County Tailgate Market Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (mid-May – mid-October) Varsity Street, Brevard 828-884-9483

Tryon Tailgate Market

Madison County Farmers & Artisans Market

Downtown Tryon Open Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m. 828-894-2281

Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mars Hill College campus, Highway 213 828-649-2411

Village of Flat Rock Tailgate Market

North Asheville Tailgate Market Open Saturdays, 7 a.m. to Noon (April – mid-October) UNC Asheville campus 828-622-3654 www.northashevilletailgatemarket.org

Polk Tailgate Market Open Saturdays, 8-11:30 a.m. (April – November) Courthouse Street, Columbus 828-894-8550

Portico Market Open everyday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Grove Arcade, Asheville 828-252-7799 www.grovearcade.com

Open Thursdays, 3-6 p.m. (April – late October) 2720 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock 828-698-8775 www.flatrockonline.com/tailgate_market

Waynesville Tailgate Market Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to Noon (mid-May – October) Off S. Main Street, Waynesville 828-456-3517 www.downtownwaynesville.com

West Asheville Tailgate Market Open Wednesdays, 3:30-6:30 p.m. 757 Haywood Road, Asheville 828-281-9099

WNC Farmers Market

Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to Noon (mid-May – mid-September) 2251 Riceville Road, Asheville 828-296-0383 www.ricevillemarket.wordpress.com

Open everyday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (April-October); 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. November-March 570 Brevard Road, Asheville 828-253-1691 www.ncagr.gov/markets/facilities/markets/ asheville

Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 250 Pigeon St., Waynesville 828-627-1058 www.waynesvillefarmersmarket.com

Rusty Bucket

Yancey County Farmers Market

Henderson County Tailgate Market

Open Sundays, Noon to 4 p.m. Island on the River, Marshall 828-775-8844

Greenlife Sunday Market Open Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 70 Merrimon Ave., Asheville www.greenlifegrocery.com

Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market

Open Saturdays, 7 a.m. to Noon (April – October) 100 N. King St., Hendersonville 828-693-7265

Riceville Tailgate Market

Open Friday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 3398 Chimney Rock Road, Hendersonville 828-685-2209

Sundays on the Island

Open Saturdays, 8 a.m. to Noon (April – October) 10 Orchard St., Burnsville 828-682-6186

Newcomers guide |

Sustainable Living Building Council teaches builders sustainable design and construction practices for residential and commercial structures. The council also offers green home tours and workshops, which showcase green building techniques for builders and prospective homeowners. The NC HealthyBuilt Homes is a certification program for small and mediumsized home builders to help them compete

| Newcomers guide

with larger home builders in the field of green building. The organization provides workshops, consultation services and design reviews as part of the certification process. Benefits of a HealthyBuilt Home include erosion control, water efficiency, high-efficiency windows and insulation, efficient heating and cooling systems, lower utility bills, improved air quality and a low-maintenance home. Homeowners can also benefit from a discount on

electric bills, state and federal tax credits, and increased market value. Energy Star is a federal program to help consumers save money by purchasing energy-efficient appliances, lighting, office equipment, home electronics, and residential heating and cooling equipment. Recently, the Energy Star label has been applied to new homes and commercial and industrial buildings. Features of Energy Star certified homes include effective insulation, high-performance windows, tight construction and tight ducts, and energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council to provide standards for environmentally sustainable construction. Homes and buildings that are LEED certified offer healthier work and living environments, benefiting homeowners, workers and society as a whole. Points toward LEED certification evaluate sustainability, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environment quality, and innovation and design process. One of the most active organizations promoting land conservation is Blue Ridge Forever, a consortium of 13 land conservation organizations dedicated to protecting the land and water of the Southern Blue Ridge. The group’s Conservation Vision involves connecting protected land, particularly those with significant ecological qualities, wildlife habitats, water quality, and cultural and economic significance. The Real Estate Agent Partnership is a program through which real estate agents can provide a tax-deductible $35 membership as client appreciation gifts. These funds go toward conservation efforts where the home is sold. More than 100 area real estate agents are participating in the project. The culmination of the sustainable living mindset is Earthaven. Earthaven is an eco-village settlement on 320 acres that sustains itself by its community members using the land for food, shelter and other basic needs. The community refers to its design as “permaculture” – meaning it is a sustainable human settlement based on the relationships between plants, animals, buildings and humans. Earthaven offers workshops on permaculture design for visitors as well as tours of the community.

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Welcome Photo by Valerie Hoffman

Sports & Recreation A climber drops down over the cliffs of Chimney Rock Park.

Asheville Tourists

As a Class A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, the Asheville Tourists play in the South Atlantic League. The Tourists’ home stadium is McCormick Field, a 4,000-seat stadium that opened in 1924, was rebuilt in 1992 and served as the film site for the baseball film “Bull Durham.” With Ted E. Tourist as a mascot, the Tourists also host group outings and birthday parties at home games. 828-2580428. www.theashevilletourists.com.

UNC Asheville Bulldogs

The NCAA Division I UNC Asheville Bulldogs play in the Big South Conference. The Bulldog baseball team won the conference championship in 2006. Bulldog basketball is played at Justice Center and Asheville Civic Center, while the soccer and baseball

| Newcomers guide

teams play at Greenwood Field. 828-2516904. www.uncabulldogs.com.

Asheville Grizzlies

The Asheville Grizzlies are a minor league football team that plays at Memorial Stadium. The Grizzlies play in the North American Football League (NAFL). www. gdfl.wordpress.com.

Asheville Parks and Recreation

With two public swimming pools, 11 community centers and more than 54 parks, Asheville’s Parks and Recreation department also operates tennis courts, ball fields, picnic shelters and more than six miles of greenways – with more on the way. For more than 30 years, the department has hosted the Hi Neighbor Volleyball

Tournament in March, which brings in more than 240 volleyball teams, and the Junior Hi Neighbor Tournament in April. 828-259-5800. www.ashevilleparks.org.

Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge

Perhaps the quintessential ultimate race, the Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge draw hardcore trail runners from across the country. Held at the end of February, the two races begin in Black Mountain. Starting at dawn, the 40-mile Mount Mitchell Challenge ascends 4,324 feet up to 6,684-foot Mount Mitchell and back down again. Black Mountain Marathon runners follow the same path up to 5,340-foot Black Mountain Gap and return. 800-678-2367. www. blackmountainmarathon.com.

Sports | Recreation

Covering 18 miles of single track, the Shut-In Ridge Trail Run starts at the North Carolina Arboretum and ends at Mount Pisgah – an ascent of a cumulative 5,000 feet with all the ups and downs. 828-252-7867. www.shutinridgerun.com.

Mountain Sports Festival

With its fast-moving rivers and diverse mountain terrain, Western North Carolina has long attracted outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Every May, professional and amateur athletes flock to the Mountain Sports Festival, which hosts competitions in paddling, adventure racing, cycling, running, climbing, triathlon, ultimate disc, skateboarding, volleyball and dodgeball. Athletes also perform demonstrations and events that appeal to a variety of skill levels, from the beginner to the professional athlete. Even if you’re not competing, you can still enjoy the vendors at Festival Village, which includes outdoor sports retailers, dealer representatives and manufacturers offering sports and recreationrelated products, food and drinks. 828-251-

4029. www.mountainsportsfestival.com.

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Ranked as one of the best outfitters in the country by National Geographic Adventure, Men’s Journal and The New York Times, the Nantahala Outdoor Center is known for its whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities on the French Broad River and other rivers in Western North Carolina. The Nantahala Outdoor Center also offers instruction in kayaking, canoeing and whitewater rafting in a variety of skill levels. 888-905-7238. www.noc.com. Plenty of other outfitters abound in the area, including Blue Ridge Rafting, 800-303RAFT, www.blueridgerafting.com; Huck Finn Rafting Adventures, 800-303-RAFT. www.huckfinnrafting.com; French Broad Rafting Expeditions, 800-570-RAFT, www. frenchbroadraft ing.com; Mountain Adventure Guides, 866-USARAFT; www.mtnadventureguides.com; Headwaters Outfitters, 828-877-3106, www.headwatersoutfitters. com; Rock ‘n’ Water, 828-689-3354. www. yearroundadventures.com.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Shut-In Ridge Trail Run

A snowboarder takes to the air in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Newcomers guide |

Sports | Recreation

Photo by Bob Schatz

Asheville is an ideal destination for mountain biking.

Cataloochee Ski Area

Located in the resort town of Maggie Valley, the Cataloochee Ski Area offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing, with slopes ranging from beginner to advanced, as well as ski instruction. 828-926-0285 or 800768-0285. www.cataloochee.com.

With 15 slopes, Beech Mountain Ski Resort is located about 80 miles northeast of Asheville near Boone. At 5,500 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest ski

| Newcomers guide

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Beech Mountain Ski Resort

284-8433. www.foxmountainguides.com.

Fox Mountain Guides

To experience some of the best trout and bass fishing in the country, see the Asheville Drifters, which offers float fishing and wade fishing trips, as well as fly fishing schools and winter trout fishing opportunities. 828-2157379. www.ashevilledrifters.com.

For rock climbing enthusiasts, Fox Mountain Guides and Climbing School is based in Pisgah Forest and offers rock and ice climbing trips and lessons for a range of skill levels, from beginner to advanced. 888-

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort

Formerly known as Wolf Laurel, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort in Mars Hill recently expanded to include slopes for beginner, intermediate and expert skiers, two double and two quad chairlifts, a tube run, night skiing and two ski lodges. 800-817-4111. www.skiwolfridgenc.com.

area in eastern North America. 800-4382093. www.skibeech.com.

Take a ride at natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own water park: Sliding Rock.

Asheville Drifters

Welcome

Golf

Photo by Bill Russ

Golf

Courses in the Blue Ridge Mountains take golf to new heights.

Spa also offers one of the finest golf courses. Opened in 1899, the course was redesigned by Donald Ross in 1924 and underwent significant restoration in 2001. Emphasizing accuracy over power, the Grove Park Inn Golf Course is considered one of the best conditioned courses in the state. Also one of the oldest golf courses in the South, the Grove Park Inn Golf Course features tree-lined fairways and Bermuda grass. One of the busiest golf courses in the region is the Asheville Municipal Golf Course, another Donald Ross design that first opened in 1927. Offering a leisurely round of play on the first nine, the course becomes increasingly more strenuous on the back nine. Biltmore Forest, one of the wealthiest towns in the country, surrounds the Biltmore Forest Country Club, also designed by Donald Ross. With a rolling landscape and scenic views of the surrounding mountain peaks, the course hosted the 1999 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship. Water comes into play on seven of the 18 holes. Just south of Asheville in Arden, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove is a gated community spread out over 940 acres of custom

homes and homesites. The development’s Jack Nicklaus signature course opened in 2005. Another Cliffs Communities development, The Cliffs at High Carolina,

Photo by Norman Powers

estern North Carolina’s gorgeous mountain landscape makes for some of the most scenic golf in the Southeast. Golf courses here play off the land’s natural features amid rolling hills, lush forests, sloping valleys and high elevations. Because of this, the region offers some of the most challenging courses in the state, catering to the avid golfer. At the same time, many courses with smoother greens are equally appealing to the novice golfer. More than 50 public and semi-private courses are scattered throughout the area, while the region’s numerous private and resort courses offer scenic play along with exclusive amenities. Western North Carolina features several courses designed by renowned golf course architect Donald Ross. Among them is the Country Club of Asheville, which was founded in 1894 and was later redesigned by Ross. Acknowledged as one of the first 100 golf clubs in the country by USGA and Golf Magazine, the course is characterized by its undulating greens and rolling hills. Regarded as one of the most luxurious resorts in the Southeast, Grove Park Inn and

Bright’s Creek in Mill Spring, NC.

will offer the first golf course designed by Tiger Woods. Amid mountain meadows, The Cliffs at High Carolina course will be located at about 4,000 feet in elevation, but because of its southern exposure, can be played year-round. Newcomers guide |

Area Golf Courses Asheville Municipal Golf Club

Cummings Cove Golf & Country Club

Lake Junaluska

Municipal 226 Fairway Drive, Asheville 828-298-1867 www.ashevillenc.gov/departments/parksrca

Semi-private 20 Cummings Cove Parkway., Hendersonville 828-891-9412 www.cummingscove.com

Public 756 Golf Course Road, Waynesville 828-456-5777 www.lakejunaluska.com

Etowah Valley Country Club

Private 788 Eagles Nest Road, Waynesville 828-452-0545 www.laurelridgegolf.com

Biltmore Forest Country Club Private 31 Stuyvesant Road, Asheville 828-274-1261 www.biltmoreforestcc.com

Black Mountain Golf Club Public 18 Ross Drive, Black Mountain 828-669-2710 www.townofblackmountain.org/golf.htm

Brookwood Golf Club

Semi-private 470 Brickyard Road, Hendersonville 828-891-7022 www.etowahvalley.com

Grove Park Inn

Private 15 Club View Drive, Hendersonville 828-693-0072 www.championhills.com

Cliffs at Walnut Cove Private 298 Walnut Valley Parkway, Arden 888-247-3466 www.cliffscommunities.com/golf

Connestee Falls Golf Course Semi-private 33 Connestee Trail, Brevard 828-885-2005 www.connesteefallsgolf.com

Country Club of Asheville

Mount Mitchell Golf Club A golfer checks out his drive at Brightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Creek in Mill Spring, NC.

Photo by Norman Powers

Champion Hills Golf Course

Public 11484 N.C. 80 S., Burnsville 828-675-5454 www.mountmitchelgolfresort.com

Mountain Air Country Club Private 30 Mountain Manor Drive, Burnsville 828-682-4600 www.mountainaircc.com

Hendersonville Country Club

Orchard Trace

Private 1860 Hebron Road, Laurel Park 828-692-2261 www.hendersonvillecc.com

Public 942 Sugarloaf Road, Hendersonville 828-685-1006

High Vista Country Club

Semi-private 36 Pink Fox Cove Road, Weaverville 828-645-4393 www.reemscreekgolf.com

Semi-private 88 Country Club Road, Mills River 828-891-1986 www.highvistagolfandcountryclub.com

Private 170 Windsor Road, Asheville 828-258-9762 www.countryclubofasheville.net

Iron Tree Golf

Crowne Plaza Tennis & Golf Resort

Kenmure

Resort 1 Resort Drive, Asheville 828-253-5874 www.ashevillecp.com/activities

Private 10 Kenmure Drive, Flat Rock 828-693-8481 www.kenmure.com

| Newcomers guide

Maggie Valley Club Resort 1819 Country Club Drive, Maggie Valley 866-659-4725 www.maggievalley.com/golf

Resort 290 Macon Ave., Asheville 800-438-5800 www.groveparkinn.com

Semi-private Mills Gap Road, Arden 828-684-6278

Laurel Ridge Country Club

Public 636 Iron Tree, Waynesville 828-627-1933

Reems Creek Golf Club

Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure Resort 112 Mountains Blvd., Lake Lure 877-628-9728 www.rumblingbald.com/golf

Waynesville Country Club Inn and Resort Resort 176 Country Club Drive, Waynesville 828-452-4617 www.thewaynesvilleinn.com/golf

Weaverville, just north of Asheville, is home to Reems Creek Golf Club, which is rated four stars by Golf Digest. Beyond the 18-hole golf course, Reems Creek Golf Club provides a clubhouse and grill, swimming pool and tennis court. Spread out over 300 acres of rolling hills, Reems Creek features beautiful lakes and spectacular views. Hendersonville claims several top-notch courses, including the Hendersonville Country Club and Champion Hills. Originally a Donald Ross creation, Hendersonville Country Club was redesigned by Tom Fazio in 1990. The course is known for its challenging sand bunkers, water hazards and tree-lined fairways. Also designed by Tom Fazio, Champion Hills is considered among the top 10 courses in the state by Golf Digest. In fact, Fazio praises the course, calling it “the perfect representation of my design philosophy.” Fourteen of the course’s 18 holes play downhill. The surrounding Champion Hills community is spread over 700 acres of hardwood and pine trees offering wooded, golf and mountain-view homes and homesites.

Photo by Norman Powers

Golf

Bright’s Creek in Mill Spring, NC.

Just west of Hendersonville on U.S. 64, Etowah Valley Country Club is located on a mountain plateau with greens as large as 9,000 square feet. Etowah Valley Country Club was named in Golf Digest’s Top 50 Golf Destinations. A classic design follows the original 18 holes, while the newest nine holes offer more variety and more of a challenge.

One of the most scenic golf courses in the country is Mount Mitchell Golf Club, located near Burnsville about an hour northeast of Asheville. At about 3,000 feet in elevation, the relatively flat course is surrounded by Pisgah National Forest and mountain peaks exceeding 6,000 feet. The South Toe River winds through the course and comes into play on several holes.

Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Photo Courtesy of NC Division of Tourism

Active Retirement

Bikers on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

hether you’re looking for a serene mountain landscape, an outdoor adventure or a cultural mecca, Western North Carolina is known as a perfect place to retire. For more than a century, the region has drawn socialites and millionaires from across the country to settle here, so it’s not surprising the 50-andup population is flocking here to enjoy the best years of their lives. Every year, Western North Carolina receives accolades from a wide range of publications, raving about the region as an ideal retirement location. In 2010, the website TopRetirements.com named Asheville No. 1 on its list of 100 64

| Newcomers guide

Places to Retire, and ehow.com recognized the area on its list of the five Best Small Towns to Live in for Retirement. Furthermore, Barron’s, Consumer Reports and AARP The Magazine have all lauded Western North Carolina among the top retirement spots in the country. These publications praise the area’s endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, its vibrant arts and culture community, and idyllic setting. Older adults who want to remain active – physically, mentally and socially – are drawn here for the excellent quality of life. If you’re longing for a truly “active” retirement, you’ve come to the right

place. The Pisgah National Forest, Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park surround the region, offering thousands of miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, fast-flowing rivers for paddling and fishing, and snowy slopes perfect for skiing. Western North Carolina also claims some of the finest – and most challenging – golf courses in the Southeast. With gorgeous scenery and dynamic landscapes, the region’s golf courses offer a diverse range of play, from the high-elevation course at Mount Mitchell Golf Club to the lakeside scenery of Rumbling Bald at Lake Lure to the exclusive

Active Retirement

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

What Others are Saying About Retirement in Western North Carolina Asheville boasts four of Top 50 Most Popular Active Adult Communities for 2010 TopRetirements.com, July 2010

A family embarks on a treasure hunt during the Ultimate AsheCache adventure in Asheville, N.C.

and historic courses of Grove Park Inn and the Country Club of Asheville. Most of these golf courses are surrounded by high-end neighborhoods that attract retirees with luxury amenities and golf-course views. Beyond its recreational opportunities, the region is brimming with arts and culture. Asheville’s historic Art Deco downtown is a hub for arts and entertainment, including the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, Asheville Lyric Opera, Asheville Community Theatre and Pack Place, which houses many of Asheville’s theater, dance and orchestra performances. Besides the arts organizations, retirees also can enjoy downtown’s cozy cafés, art galleries and live music venues. Pack Square Park, which opened in June 2010 as Asheville’s own “central park,” covers more than 6 acres in the center of downtown. In addition to its green space, Pack Square Park also includes an amphitheater, walkways, fountains and landscaping. But it’s not just downtown Asheville that offers a cultural experience. Small towns such as Waynesville and Hendersonville feature an abundance of art galleries along their main streets. Even in the most remote mountain areas such as in Madison County, craftspeople gather to display and sell their wares, preserving the unique culture of their mountain communities.

Access to quality health care is one of the top concerns for retirees. Luckily, the region offers superior health care through Mission Hospitals, the VA Medical Center and other local hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centers. Health care is the top employment sector in the region and health care workers are paid higher than the national average. Additionally, many health care centers provide programs for seniors to help them stay healthy and manage their wellness. Mission Hospitals has the Golden Care Program, which features special benefits for members, including help filing insurance claims, archiving medical history and providing discounts on goods and services. The Golden Care Card allows members to access their medical information 24 hours a day with a PIN number, and emergency alert stickers will notify rescue and emergency personnel they are carrying this information. Your appointed Golden Care counselor will file secondary insurance claims regardless of where they are incurred, and a record of all medical expenses will be kept on a spreadsheet and made available to you at any time. Members also receive discounts on a variety of items, including diabetes supplies, personal alarms, Lifeline personal emergency response system, Resource Center classes and cafeteria food, as well as at such businesses as jewelry stores and restaurants.

Top 10 Best Places for Second Homes Barron’s, March 2010 One of the Five Best Small Towns to live in for Retirement ehow, March 2010 No. 1 of the Top 100 Best Places to Retire TopRetirements.com, February 2010 No. 1 retirement destination in the Top 10 Places to Retire MarketWatch, February 2010

Newcomers guide |

Photo Courtesy of NC Division of Tourism

Retirees are drawn to Western North Carolina for a variety of reasons, ranging from its quality of life to affordable home prices, and the region is regularly recognized by numerous magazines as a hot spot. In fact, TopRetirements.com listed Asheville as its top pick for the most popular retirement towns for 2010. And, Barronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ranked it among the top 10 places for a second-home investment in 2010. Pre-retirees in their 50s and early 60s are looking to purchase their homes now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; years before their actual retirement date â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to secure the home at its current price before it continues to appreciate. By doing this, future retirees also can use their property as a vacation home for years before it becomes their permanent home in retirement. They can also rent it out as a second source of income in the years approaching retirement. Developments throughout the region are catering to retirees and pre-retirees with a variety of housing styles, from low-maintenance condominiums to large homes perfect for housing visiting grandchildren and other family members. Many developments also offer undeveloped lots where retirees can customize and build their dream homes. Some of these new communities are located close to entertainment and shopping centers, while others are tucked away in peaceful 66

| Newcomers guide

locales, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Dozens of communities feature golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, clubhouses, recreation centers and walking trails for those who aspire for more active lifestyles. Retirement communities, in particular, provide social clubs to help their residents meet new people. Western North Carolina also offers numerous independent living communities for retirees who are able to live on their own but need more attention by having meals, housekeeping, social activities, transportation and security provided by the community. For those who need more personalized care, assisted living communities provide everything from nonmedical care to long-term care. Also, many health care centers in the region provide in-home care. One of the most unique benefits of retiring in Western North Carolina is the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement, based at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. Founded in 1988 to enhance learning, the Center for Creative Retirement offers business and service opportunities for retirees by hosting workshops, seminars and retreats for those 50 and older. Undoubtedly, the Center for Creative Retirement is becoming more and more relevant as baby boomers approach retirement, and as the

region becomes a hot spot for retirees. The Center for Creative Retirement seeks to create an age-integrated society by helping retirees and pre-retirees find fulfillment through continued education, volunteer work, recreation, social groups and prospects for hobbies and careers after retirement. Located in a 20,000-square-foot facility called the Reuter Center, the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement stands on a 256-acre hilltop campus of UNC Asheville about one mile from downtown Asheville. The center hosts Paths to Creative Retirement, a three-day workshop that helps retirees and those preparing to retire explore possibilities for their lives in retirement, from starting a new business, taking classes at the university or giving back to the community through volunteer work. During the workshop, retirees are able to assess what they want for their future and strategize to meet their goals through lectures, group work and vision exercises. The Center for Creative Retirement allows members to take university-level classes at UNC Asheville through its College for Seniors program. Retirees can take college courses in technology, music, business, literature and history, as well as leadership training and educational travel opportunities. There is no age limit in the College for Seniors program.

Active Retirement These classes are offered as non-credit courses with no tests or grades. Members of the Center for Creative Retirement are given a student identification card, allowing them all the privileges of UNC Asheville students, including a parking permit and library access. College for Seniors is offered during four terms each year at UNC Asheville and other community centers in the area. Retirees are able to learn more about the natural environment and cultural heritage of the region through the Blue Ridge Naturalist program, which offers classes, field studies and workshops. Regional naturalists teach the courses, covering botany, geology, ecology and zoology. Field studies cover subjects including forest habitats, rocks and minerals, wildflowers and trees, birds and butterflies, reptiles and water systems. Students are able to take classes in the Blue Ridge Naturalist program for their own personal fulfillment or to earn a Certification of Completion in the program. Leadership Asheville Seniors is an eight-day workshop where Center for Cre-

ative Retirement members can meet with local politicians, business and community leaders to learn about the history, people, institutions, challenges and opportunities in Western North Carolina. Those who participate in Leadership Asheville Seniors are encouraged to participate in volunteer activities with local organizations. The Center for Creative Retirement hosts an Exploration Weekend over

Memorial Day weekend to help retirees explore their choices and challenges in approaching retirement and specifically with moving to Western North Carolina. These seminars are hosted by other retirees who have moved to the area from other parts of the country. For more information about the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement, call 828-251-6140 or go to www.unca.edu/ncccr.

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Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Second Homes, Vacation Homes

| Newcomers guide

Photo by Allison Cooke Oliverius

or centuries, visitors have flocked to Western North Carolina for its breathtaking scenery and healthy mountain air. Entranced by the region’s sublime beauty, many of these visitors have chosen to make Western North Carolina a home away from home by investing in vacation property. Eager for a more relaxed pace of life, these homebuyers often look for a place to enjoy with family and friends or to escape the hectic life of the city. When looking for a vacation home, buyers focus on several aspects – proximity to an urban area, mild weather, recreational opportunities, and arts and culture. Undoubtedly, Western North Carolina has all of this – and more. Here, secondhome owners can enjoy the serene beauty and privacy of a mountain house within miles of urban Asheville, abuzz with a hopping nightlife, cultural events and shopping. For those looking for more adventure, the area offers some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the country, from its endless miles of hiking trails to its fast-flowing rivers, perfect for paddling. And of course, the weather can’t be beat. For all of these reasons, it’s no surprise real estate is flourishing in Western North Carolina, especially in the second-home market. In fact, Barron’s recently included Asheville on its list of the top 10 places to buy a second home. For many looking to purchase a second home, the choice is between buying a house at the mountains or the beach. But with the potential for devastating hurricanes and increased cost of insurance, many are opting for a home in the mountains. In fact, many of those relocating to Western North Carolina are coming from Florida and the coastal Carolinas for these

very reasons. Newcomers also say they prefer the mountains’ milder climate – which is relatively cool in the summer and mild in the winter – to the hot, humid weather of the beach. The area has a long tradition of attracting those from coastal climates. During the 1800s, much of Western North Carolina was considered a resort area as Charleston, S.C., residents

flocked here during the summer to escape the mosquitoes, storms, humidity and heat of the Lowcountry. One of the biggest draws is the abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. With the Pisgah National Forest, Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park right in your backyard, you’ll never run out of

Newcomers guide |

Second Homes

| Newcomers guide

While Western North Carolina has become a popular option for retirement homes, it has seen a growing number of pre-retirees – those in their 50s and early 60s – who choose to purchase a second home before they actually retire. This makes sense for a number of reasons. Preretirees are able to use the home as a vacation home for several years before they move into it permanently. It also allows homebuyers to explore the area before they decide to live here permanently. Buyers are able to invest in a new home while they are still working. Additionally, they see it as an investment and are able to lock in a home at today’s prices before they continue to appreciate. By purchasing a second home in Western North Carolina, homebuyers also have the option of renting out their homes while they aren’t staying there. Particularly during the fall when visitors flock here to see the leaves change colors, rentals reap a premium, as hotels fill up. If you like this option but have concerns about becoming an absent landlord, you might consider using a property management company to handle the process of finding qualified tenants and dealing with maintenance issues. One of Western North Carolina’s most popular vacation home areas is Lake

Photo by Roger Wade

new places to explore. The region offers a wide variety of real estate options, from small cottages to massive mountain estates, as well as wooded lots on which you can build your dream home. Many new luxury developments have gated communities, which are particularly appealing to the second-home owner because they offer security when the home is unoccupied, and in some cases, are more low-maintenance than those outside a gated community. Beyond the weather, people choose to purchase a second home here because of the region’s friendly feel. The area’s quaint small towns such as Waynesville and Hendersonville offer art galleries, shops and restaurants, while rural areas like Madison, Yancey and Polk counties draw homebuyers looking for a more isolated escape, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Still others prefer a second home close to all the amenities Asheville has to offer. For this reason, many are choosing to buy condominiums and townhomes downtown, which offer low-maintenance residences and are just a few blocks away from cultural and shopping opportunities such as Pack Place, Grove Arcade and the numerous galleries, bookstores and restaurants that abound in Asheville’s historic Art Deco downtown.

Lure, a resort area in Rutherford County’s Hickory Nut Gorge that is known for its crystal-clear lake and spectacular mountain views. With a swimming area, sandy beach and several golf courses, Lake Lure’s population swells from 1,000 to 10,000 during the summer months. Western North Carolina’s location is especially appealing to homebuyers who want to be in close proximity to their vacation home, as it is within a day’s drive of almost anywhere along the East Coast. The area’s network of highways – which includes Interstate 40, Interstate 26 and the Blue Ridge Parkway – make the locale even more convenient. Asheville is just an hour’s drive from Greenville/Spartanburg, S.C., via I-26, about two hours from Charlotte, N.C., – the largest city in the Carolinas – two hours to Knoxville Tenn., three hours to Atlanta and about four hours to Charleston, S.C., or Myrtle Beach, S.C. For those who prefer to fly in, the Asheville Regional Airport offers nonstop flights to Newark, Charlotte, Chicago, Atlanta, Orlando, Houston, and New York with connections to more than 200 destinations.

Welcome

Arts & Culture

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Arts & Culture

Asheville has a free-spirited and funky vibe.

The Arts Council of Henderson County

Promoting and fostering arts opportunities for children and adults alike, The Arts Council of Henderson County offers many educational programs and exhibits throughout the year. 538 N. Main St., Hendersonville. 828-693-8504. www.acofhc.org.

Asheville Area Arts Council

The Asheville Area Arts Council was founded more than 50 years ago and provides grants and scholarships for talented, emerging local artists. It also establishes and maintains educational arts programs in the schools. 828-258-0710. www.ashevillearts.com.

Asheville Community Theatre

Featuring a 49-seat, black box theatre space with state-of-the-art equipment, the Asheville Community Theatre produces a wide array of mainstage plays and musicals. 828-254-1320. www.ashevilletheatre.org.

Asheville Lyric Opera

The Asheville Lyric Opera, celebrating its 12th season, performs classic opera works, including “Romeo and Juliet” and “Rigoletto.” Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville. 828-236-0670. www.ashevillelyric.org.

Asheville Symphony

Celebrating its 50th year, the long-run-

ning Asheville Symphony performs both masterworks and pops concerts. The symphony – led by conductor Daniel Meyer – also presents a Holiday Pops concert with the Children’s Chorus in December. 87 Haywood St., Asheville. 828-254-7046. www.ashevillesymphony.org.

Blue Spiral 1

A spacious, 15,000-square-foot, threestory downtown art gallery, Blue Spiral 1 displays paintings, photos, printmaking, ceramics and blown glass from more than 100 artists and craft makers from across the Southeast. 38 Biltmore Ave., Asheville. 800-291-2513. www.bluespiral1.com. Newcomers guide |

111 Grovewood Road, Asheville. 828253-7651. www.grovewood.com.

The gallery at The Arts Council of Henderson County.

Photo Courtesy of The Arts Council of Henderson County

Haywood Arts Regional Theatre

Brevard Music Center & Festival Providing young, aspiring musicians an opportunity to showcase and nurture their talents, the Brevard Music Center performs 80 public concerts, operas and musicals. More than 400 students, ranging from 14 years old to post-college, attend the summer program and are given the opportunity to play with faculty and guest artists. The Brevard Music Center is in its 74th season. 349 Andante Lane, Brevard. 828-862-2100. www.brevardmusic.org.

Diana Wortham Theatre

An intimate, 500-seat theater inside the Pack Place complex in downtown Asheville, the Diana Wortham Theatre presents live performances of music, theater and dance throughout the year from nationally touring artists, as well as various performances by professional and vocational regional art groups. 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville. 828257-4530. www.dwtheatre.com.

Fine Arts Theatre

Located in downtown Asheville, this Art Deco theater screens independent films and shows art. 36 Biltmore Ave., Asheville. 828-232-1536. www.fineartstheatre.com.

| Newcomers guide

Flat Rock Playhouse

The Flat Rock Playhouse produces theatrical productions and provides educational programs in the performing arts. Each year, about 90,000 patrons attend performances by the Vagabond Players. 2661 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock. 828-693-0731. www. flatrockplayhouse.org.

Folk Art Center

Displaying unique, handmade crafts such as clay, fibers, basket weaving, jewelry, metals, wood and paper products ranging from traditional to contemporary Appalachian art â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all of which are for sale â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Folk Art Center attracts more than 300,000 visitors each year, with live demonstrations taking place March through December. It also aspires to educate with books, beginners kits and demonstrations. Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 382. 828298-7928. www.southernhighlandguild.com.

Grovewood Gallery

For more than 100 years, the Grovewood Gallery has displayed contemporary and traditional furniture, craft and art including jewelry, pottery, wood, iron, fiber and glass works in a 9,000-squarefoot venue with more than 500 artists.

The Haywood Arts Regional Theatre is the most active theater company between Charlotte and Nashville. Also known as HART, the theater is located in Waynesville in the Performing Arts Center at the historic Shelton House and features plays and musicals throughout the year. The Shelton House, 250 Pigeon St., Waynesville. 828456-6322. www.harttheatre.com.

Haywood County Arts Council

Seeking to enhance the arts culture in Haywood County, the Haywood County Arts Council supports music, art and theater productions, such as the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre, Spotlight Youth Theater and International Festival Day. 828-452-0593. www.haywoodarts.org.

Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra

Celebrating its 39th season in 2010, the Thomas Joiner-led orchestra presents six concerts each year, as well as supporting a youth orchestra and an array of music education programs. 828-697-5884. www. hendersonvillesymphony.org.

The Orange Peel

The Orange Peel was named as one of the top music venues in the country by Rolling Stone in 2008. It has hosted such acts as Bob Dylan, the Smashing Pumpkins, Blondie and Sonic Youth. 101 Biltmore Ave., Asheville. 828-225-5851. www.theorangepeel.net.

New Morning Gallery

New Morning Gallery has specialized in handcrafted furniture, jewelry, pottery, glass and other home and garden accessories in the historic Biltmore Village for more than 30 years. 7 Boston Way, Asheville. 828-274-2831. www.newmorninggallerync.com.

North Carolina Stage Co.

Nestled in a cozy, off-Broadwaystyle venue in the heart of downtown Asheville, the North Carolina Stage Co. is a professional theater group that performs a range of gripping dramas,

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Shelton House was built in 1875 and displays 19th-century crafts and furniture, plus displays from the North Carolina State Fair’s Village of Yesterday and Native American artifacts. 49 Shelton St., Waynesville. 828-452-1551.

Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre

Located in Mars Hill, the award-winning Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre is a professional stage company that presents proven favorites in plays and musicals such as “Evita,” “Little Women” and “To Kill A Mockingbird.” In its 36th season, SART has also featured signature productions that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Southern Appalachia. The company also hosts the annual ScriptFEST playwrights conference with the goal of promoting the development of original new plays. The mainstage season is June through August in the historic Owen Theatre on Mars Hill College campus. 44 College St., Mars Hill. Box Office: 828-689-1239 (May-August); Business Office: 828-689-1384. www.sartplays.org.

Southern Highland Craft Guild

The guild, a nonprofit educational organization based in the Folk Art Center, is comprised of close to 1,000 craftspeople from 293 counties of nine southern states. Promoting excellence in the design, education and merchandising of art in southern Appalachia since 1930, the guild is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway east of Asheville. 828-2987928. www.southernhighlandguild.org.

Toe River Arts Council

The Toe River Arts Council offers artsbased programs and services to schools,

The Cherokee Bluegrass Festival.

This platter, made by Joey Sheehan, was featured at an art show held by The Arts Council of Henderson County.

local artists and the greater community in Mitchell and Yancey counties. It also sponsors nine annual events such as the Holiday Studio Tour in December, where visitors are guided by map to various mountain galleries that feature glass, pottery, sculpture, wood, photography, textiles, paintings and jewelry. 269 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine. 828-765-0520. www.toeriverarts.org.

Twigs & Leaves

Centered in Waynesville’s “gallery row,” Twigs & Leaves features native-related works in glass, jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal, wood, painting, photography and sculpture in a 3,000-square-foot venue. 98

Photo Courtesy of The Arts Council of Henderson County

Shelton House Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts

Photo Courtesy of The Arts Council of Henderson County

classics, family plays and outrageous comedies. Voted Asheville’s Best Local Theatre for three years running, NC Stage is also committed to arts education as it has served 3,545 students via classroom residencies and 15,000 students through a school tour of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” 15 Stage Lane, Asheville. 828-239-0263. www.ncstage.org.

Photo Courtesy of The Eastern Band of Cherokee Travel & Promotion

Arts & Culture

A painting by Jonas Gerard featured at an exhibit called “Artists of Tomorrow” held by The Arts Council of Henderson County.

N. Main St., Waynesville. 828-456-1940. www.twigsandleaves.com.

YMI Cultural Center

The YMI Cultural Center, founded in 1893 as the Young Men’s Institute, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This historical landmark promotes the cultural heritage of African Americans in Western North Carolina. The center also displays historic artwork and sponsors events such as the Goombay Festival, Kwanzaa and Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday Celebration. 39 S. Market St., Asheville. 828-2524614. www.ymicc.org. Newcomers guide |

Welcome

rom its cultural offerings to its natural mountain landscape, Western North Carolina celebrates with festivals throughout the year. Here are just some of the perennial favorites: Asheville starts off the year with First Night, an alcohol-free, family-oriented event in Pack Square. The festival includes children’s activities, arts and crafts, and a diverse array of live music culminating in a grand finale fireworks display. In January, the Asheville FringeArts Festival (www.ashevillefringe.org) celebrates avant-garde artists, poets, musicians and dancers during a four-day festival held at various venues throughout Asheville. February brings the Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge (www.blackmountainmarathon.com) – a rigorous race for hardcore trail runners. Beginning at dawn in Black Mountain, the 40-mile Mount Mitchell Challenge leads runners up to the 6,684-foot peak – an ascent of 4,324 feet – and back down again. The Black Mountain Marathon is a tad less strenuous, as runners race up to 5,340-foot Black Mountain Gap and return. Hundreds of volleyball teams from throughout the region flock to Asheville every March for the Hi Neighbor Volleyball Tournament (www. ashevilleparks.org), a premier USA-V sanctioned tournament. Celebrating its 33rd year in 2010, the Hi Neighbor Tournament is followed by the Junior Hi Neighbor Volleyball Tournament in April, which brings in more than 130 teams. If you love to enjoy an amazing variety of gorgeous blooms, you don’t want to miss the Biltmore Estate’s Festival of Flowers held each spring. The estate-wide event begins in early April and runs through midMay. It celebrates the beauty of George Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre property and its

| Newcomers guide

Over 300,000 people attend the Bele Chere Festival in downtown Asheville each July.

Photo Courtesy of Bele Chere

Festivals & Events

Enjoy seasonal festivities at the Dickens in the Village festival in Historic Biltmore Village in Asheville.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

original design by Frederick Law Olmsted. To learn more, visit www.biltmore.com. Held in late April, Fire on the Mountain Blacksmith Festival is held in downtown Spruce Pine and features vendors, live demonstrations, a hands-on tent with rotating teachers and visiting blacksmiths from around the region and country. To learn more, visit www.sprucepinefestivals.com. On the shores of lovely Lake Eden and the site of Camp Rockmont, the Lake Eden Arts Festival (www.theleaf.com) is so extraordinary that it’s held twice each year – in May and October. Festival-goers enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and the scenic views of Mount Mitchell. Covering 600 acres, the multicultural festival blends music, dance, art, poetry and the healing arts along with kids activities, camping and other forms of recreation. The Mountain Sports Festival (www. mountainsportsfestival.com) in May hosts paddling, cycling, running, climbing and adventure racing competitions at Festival Village on the French Broad River. The festival also includes demonstrations and competitions for every skill level – from beginner to professional athlete. Vendors also sell sports and recreation-related equipment, food and beverages. Summers in Asheville are always buzzing. From May to September, Downtown After Five (www. ashevilledowntown.org) features live music, beer and food in Pack Square on the third Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. Another music series dur-

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Festivals & Events

Fireworks illuminate holiday nights in downtown Asheville during December’s Seasonal Sizzle events.

ing the summer is Shindig on the Green (www. folkheritage.org/shindigonthegreen. htm), which attracts thousands to downtown Asheville on Saturday evenings between June and August. For the past 43 years, Shindig on the Green features mountain music and dancing – an important part of the region’s cultural heritage – where you can experience bluegrass music, old-time string bands, clogging, big circle mountain dance and balladeers. The Montford Park Players (www. montfordparkplayers.org) have been performing Shakespeare since 1973. More than 150 volunteers are part of the theater troupe, which performs at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre. Th e group seeks to make Shakespeare more accessible to the public, and also produces “A Christmas Carol” in December. Home to more than a dozen galleries, Asheville’s River Arts District offers a Studio Stroll (www.riverdistrictartists. com) for a weekend in June and November. The gallery crawl displays local art, from paintings and pottery to photography and woodworking. From the last week in June through the first week of August, the Brevard Music Fes-

tival (www.brevardmusic.org) gathers some of the finest young musicians in the country to develop their talents through performance, collaboration and workshops with faculty and guest artists. More than 400 students ranging from 14 years old to college graduates perform 80 public concerts, musicals and operas. Another annual music event that locals and visitors look forward to is the Blue Ridge BBQ & Music Festival in Tryon. Featuring Hog Heaven, with more than 80 cook teams from across the United States, live music and the Foothills Craft Fair. The Fourth of July is celebrated throughout Western North Carolina, from its small towns to downtown Asheville, which hosts the largest Independence Day celebration in the area, with live music, food and a fireworks display. July also brings one of the largest free outdoor festivals in the Southeast – Bele Chere (www. belecherefestival.com). The term “bele chere” means “beautiful living.” With live music, entertainment, children’s events, arts, craft s and food, the three-day festival brings more than 365,000 people into downtown Asheville. Newcomers guide |

In Waynesville, the North Carolina International Folk Festival – also known as Folkmoot (www.folkmootusa.org) – is held for two weeks in July. Celebrating its 26th year in 2010, Folkmoot recognizes the world’s cultural heritage by bringing together more than 350 musicians and dancers from more than a dozen different countries. In past years, Folkmoot has featured guests from Norway, Israel, Spain, Russia, Uzbekistan, Egypt and Italy. Held annually in mid-July, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands takes place in downtown Asheville at the Civic Center. Started in 1948, the fair showcases work by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, with more than 900 members throughout the mountain regions of nine states. Started by folk pioneer Bascar Lamar Lunsford in the 1920s, the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival (www. folkheritage.org) is held each August and fills Diana Wortham Theatre in downtown Asheville with mountain musicians, cloggers, dancers and storytellers. Honoring the mountain traditions dating back to Scotch and Irish settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries, the festival is the oldest of its kind in the country. Held on the grounds of the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village near the entrance of the Biltmore Estate, the Village Art & Craft Fair hosts 125 artists from 20 states representing the full spectrum of craft media – jewelry, ceramic, wood, fiber, metals, two-dimensional art 76

| Newcomers guide

and much more. Admission is free. Looking for antiques from the 18th, 19th and early 20th century? Don’t miss the Asheville Antiques Fair, the oldest antiques show in the South. More than 50 dealers showcase furniture, silver, jewelry, prints, crystal, books and more. Special events include: Heirloom Roadshow, offering verbal appraisals, expert lectures and exhibits. The event is held annually at the Civic Center in downtown Asheville. The Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair in downtown Burnsville features quality crafts displaying hand-made furniture, wrought iron, blown glass, beaded jewelry, locallymade quilts along with home-made jams and jellies. The free crafts fair was selected as the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 Events for the summer of 2009. When the temperatures begin to cool around Labor Day, the North Carolina Apple Festival (www.ncapplefestival. org) draws more than 200,000 people into downtown Hendersonville. The event includes live music, arts and crafts, kids activities, food, a parade and street dance, and of course, plenty of apples. Also in September, the Greek Festival in downtown Asheville recognizes the area’s Greek culture with dancing and authentic Greek food, such as baklava and spanakopita. On Lexington Avenue in Asheville, the Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival (www.arts2people.org/laaff) – otherwise known as LAAFF – is a street fair celebrating local arts and culture with dancing,

Photo by Tony Martin

The Shindig on the Green is a free summer-long festival celebrating the region’s mountain music and dance heritage.

Photo by Tony Martin

Festivals & Events music, arts and crafts, street performers, kids activities and food. The event is held in early September. The Nantahala Outdoor Center’s Tsali Challenge (www.noc.com) is a triathlon held every September at the Tsali Recreation Area near Bryson City. The triathlon involves a 3-mile paddle on Fontana Lake, a 5-mile trail run and a 12-mile mountain bike ride. Individual competitions are held on Saturday, and teams of three compete on Sunday. Another popular outdoor race is the ShutIn Ridge Trail Run (www. shutinridgerun. com) in October, which celebrated its 30th year in 2009. Starting at the North Carolina Arboretum, the Shut-In Ridge Trail Run spans 18 miles up to Mount Pisgah – an ascent of about 5,000 feet with all the ups and downs. The last two miles of the race are the most challenging, as runners battle steep and oft en slippery slopes, roots and rocks, but they tend to agree that the spectacular views make it absolutely worth it. The Asheville Film Festival (www. ashevillefilmfestival.com), held for four days in November, shows feature films, documentaries and short films at Pack Place and other venues throughout Asheville. As the holidays approach, Western North Carolina becomes quite festive, with dozens of holiday events, tours and performances throughout the area. Light Up Your Holidays in Asheville premiers with its Annual Christmas Parade in November. The festival includes more than 40 holiday events, such as Christmas at Biltmore, the Gingerbread House Competition at the Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa and the Annual High Country Christmas Art and Craft Show.

The Shindig on the Green is fun for all ages.

Welcome

Calendar SEPTEMBER 2010

3-6 – North Carolina Apple Festival. Downtown Hendersonville. Street fair on Main Street includes entertainment, arts and crafts, apple products, children’s activities, exhibits, food and a parade. 828-697-4557. www.ncapplefestival.org. 3-6 – Labor Day Beach Music Weekend 2010. Featuring The Embers & The Fabulous Kays. Grove Park Inn. 800-438-5800. www.groveparkinn.com. 5 – Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival. Local artists, live entertainment, food and drinks. www.arts2people.org/laaff.html. 10-19 – North Carolina Mountain State Fair. Fletcher. 828-687-1414. www.ncagr.gov/ markets/fairs/mtnfair.

NOVEMBER 2010 Weaverville Art Safari. Self-guided driving tours of galleries in Weaverville, Barnardsville and Alexander. www.weavervilleartsafari.com. 5-Jan. 1, 2011 - Christmas at Biltmore Estate. See Biltmore decked out in Christmas décor. 800-411-3812. www.biltmore.com. 15-Dec. 29 - National Gingerbread House Competition and Display. Grove Park Inn, Asheville. 800-438-5800. www.groveparkinn.com. 12-Jan. 1, 2011 – Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore Estate. 800-411-3812. www.biltmore.com.

DECEMBER 2010

18 – Heritage Weekend at the Folk Art Center. 828-298-7928. www.craftguild.org.

4 – Guild Artists Holiday Sale. 828-2987928. www.craftguild.org.

24 – Biltmore Concert Series presents Christopher Cross @ Diana at Biltmore. 800-411-3812. www.biltmore.com.

30-Jan. 1 – New Year’s Eve Celebration. Grove Park Inn, Asheville. Dinner, open bar, champagne toast, party favors and breakfast buffet. 800-438- 5800. www. groveparkinn.com.

24-26 – Guest Appreciation Festival. Nantahala Outdoor Center. 1-888-905-7238. www.noc.com. 25-27 – Flat Rock Music Festival. Camp Ton-A-Wandah, Flat Rock. 828-692- 2005.

OCTOBER 2010 1 – Biltmore Concert Series presents Kathy Mattea @ Diana at Biltmore. 800411-3812. www.biltmore.com. 2 – Farm City Day. Jackson Park, Hendersonville. 828-697-4884. www.historichendersonville.com/farm_ city_day.htm 14-17 – Lake Eden Arts Festival. Camp Rockmont, Black Mountain. Diverse array of live music, dance, art, poetry and healing arts on Lake Eden. 828-686-8742. www.theleaf.com. 21-24 – Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands. Asheville Civic Center. 828-298-7928. www.craftguild.org. 22-24 – NOCtoberfest. Nantahala Outdoor Center. 1-888-905-7238. www.noc.com.

31 – First Night Asheville. Entertainment, games, fireworks in an alcohol-free atmosphere. 828-252-2711. www.ashevilleparks.org.

JANUARY 2011 21-23 – The 20th Annual Big Band & Swing Dance Weekend at Grove Park Inn. 800438-5800. www.groveparkinn.com. Late Jan. – Asheville Fringe Festival. Avant-garde art, music, poetry and dance at venues throughout Asheville. 828-2360439. www.ashevillefringe.org. 28-30 – All That Jazz Weekend. Grove Park Inn, Asheville. 800-438- 5800. www.groveparkinn.com.

FEBRUARY 2011 18-20 – Annual Bluegrass First Class Festival. Crowne Plaza Resort. www.bluegrassfirstclass.com.

Calendar

Blue Ridge Parkway celebrates 75 years 2010 marks the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway. This yearlong celebration will include events all along the 469-miles of the parkway, from Virginia to North Carolina. www.blueridgeparkway75.org

Late Feb. – Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge. 800-678-2367. www.blackmountainmarathon.com.

MARCH 2011 1-5 – Heritage Classic DanceSport Championships 2011 at the Grove Park Inn. 954757-5101. www.theheritageclassic.com. Mid-March – Hi Neighbor Volleyball Tournament. One of the country’s premier volleyball tournaments. 828-259-5800. www. ashevilleparks.org.

APRIL 2011 2-May 15 – Festival of Flowers. Welcome Spring with thousands of tulips and azaleas at Biltmore Estate. 800-411-3812. www.biltmore.com. 25 – Johnson Farm Festival. 19th annual event to raise money for Historic Johnson Farm; includes demonstrations, entertainment, food, children’s activities and tours. 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. 828891-6585. www.co.henderson. k12.nc.us/ johnsonfarm-web/festival.

MAY 2011 Early May – Olde Tyme Music Festival. Downtown Hendersonville. Musicians play the dulcimer, banjo, guitar, fiddle and mandolin. 828-692-8588. www.dhinc.org. Early May – French Broad River Festival. Hot Springs. Live music, recreational activities and competitions, and kids activities. www.frenchbroadriverfestival.com. 12-15 – Lake Eden Arts Festival. Diverse array of live music, dance, art, poetry and healing. 828-686-8742. www.theleaf.com. Newcomers guide |

Calendar Mid May – Twin Rivers Multi-Media Festival. Winners pieces shown at a variety of venues in Asheville. www.twinriversmediafestival.com. 9-10 – Fiber Weekend at the Folk Art Center. Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 382. 828-298-7928. www.craftguild.org. 16 – Montford Arts and Music Festival. Montford Avenue, between Cullowhee and Wanata streets, Asheville. 828-777- 1014. www.montfordfestival.com. 16 – Saluda Arts and Music Festival. Downtown Saluda. 828-817-2876. www. saluda.com. 23-24 – Garden Jubilee. Downtown Hendersonville. Over 100 vendors selling plants, arts and crafts, and workshops in gardening. 828-693-9708. www.historichendersonville.org. 25 – Carl Sandburg Folk Music Festival. Carl Sandburg Home, Flat Rock. 828-6934178. www.nps.gov/carl. 29-31 – Mountain Sports Festival. Festival Village, Asheville. Adventure racing, paddling, cycling, climbing, running, ultimate/ disc golf, skateboarding, dodgeball, volleyball and kids activities. 828-251-4029. www.mountainsportsfestival.com.

JUNE 2011 June-Oct. – Biltmore Concert Series. Enjoy performances with breathtaking views. 800-411-3812. www.biltmore.com. 4 – Clay Day at the Folk Art Center. 828298-7928. www.craftguild.org.

Late June – Gallery and Studio Walking Tour. Downtown Waynesville. 828-4563517. www.downtownwaynesville.com. Late July-Early August – Brevard Music Festival. More than 400 students from 14 years old to post-college perform more than 80 public concerts at the Brevard Music Center. 828-862-2105. www.brevardmusic.org.

JULY 2011 Early July-Early September – Shindig on the Green. Downtown Asheville. 828-2586101. www.folkheritage.org. Early July-Early August – Swannanoa Gathering. 828-452-0593. www.swangathering.org Mid-July – Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands. Asheville Civic Center. 828-2987928. www.craftguild.org. 21-31 – North Carolina International Folk Festival, also known as Folkmoot USA. Waynesville. More than 350 dancers and musicians from a dozen different countries celebrate the world’s cultural heritage. 828-452-2997. www.folkmoot.com. Late July – Bele Chere. Downtown Asheville. One of the largest street festivals in the Southeast with arts, crafts, live music, food and children’s activities. 828259-5800. www.belecherefestival.com.

AUGUST 2011 Early August – Wood Day at the Folk Art Center. 828-298-7928. www.craftguild.org.

Early June – Toe River Arts Council Studio Tour. Spruce Pine. Nearly 150 artists in Mitchell and Yancey counties open their

Early August – Mountain Dance and Folk Festival. Diana Wortham Theatre, Asheville. 828-257-4530. www.folkheritage.org.

studios for this annual event. 828-7650520. www.toeriverarts.org.

20-Sept. 12 – Flower Carpet at Biltmore Estate. 800-411-3812. www.biltmore.com.

Early June – Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Horse Show. Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, Tryon. 828-859-6109. www. trhcevents.com.

Early August – Village Art & Craft Fair. Biltmore Village. 800-933-4438. www. bluespiral1.com/nmg/avacf.html

10-11 – Blue Ridge Barbecue Festival. Harmon Field, Tryon. 828-859- 7427. www. blueridgebbqfestival.com. Mid June – River District Arts Studio Stroll. River District, Asheville. www.riverdistrictartists.com. 78

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Variety of dates in August – Shindig on the Green. Downtown Asheville. 828-2586101. www.folkheritage.org. Late August – Goombay Festival. YMI Cultural Center, Asheville. 828-252- 4614. www.ymicc.org/goombay.html.

SEPTEMBER 2011 Sunday before Labor Day - Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival. Local artists, live entertainment, food and drinks. www. arts2people.org/laaff.html Labor Day Weekend – North Carolina Apple Festival. Downtown Hendersonville. Street fair on main street includes entertainment, arts and crafts, apple products, children’s activities, exhibits, food and parade. 828697-4557. www.ncapplefestival.org. Early September – Shindig on the Green. Downtown Asheville. 828-258-6101. www. folkheritage.org. Mid September – North Carolina Mountain State Fair. Fletcher. 828-687-1414. www.ncagr.gov/markets/fairs/mtnfair. Mid September – Nantahala Outdoor Center Tsali Challenge. Tsali Recreation Center, Bryson City. 888-488-7238. www. noc.com. Late September – Heritage Weekend at the Folk Art Center. 828-298-7928. www. craftguild.org. Late September – Flat Rock Music Festival. Camp Ton-A-Wandah, Flat Rock. 828-6922005. www.fl atrockmusicfestival.com

OCTOBER 2011 Early October – Biltmore Concert Series @ Diana at Biltmore. 800-411-3812. www. biltmore.com. Early October– Farm City Day. Jackson Park, Hendersonville. 828-697-4884. www. historichendersonville. com/farm_ city_ day.htm Mid October– Lake Eden Arts Festival. Camp Rockmont, Black Mountain. Diverse array of live music, dance, art, poetry and healing arts on Lake Eden. 828-686-8742. www.theleaf.com. Mid October– Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands. Asheville Civic Center. 828-2987928. www.craftguild.org. Late October– NOCtoberfest. Nantahala Outdoor Center. 1-888-905-7238. www.noc.com.

Welcome

Local Attractions

Biltmore Estate

With 240 rooms – including an indoor swimming pool, bowling alley and gymnasium – Biltmore Estate is the largest home in the country. Created by George Vanderbilt, the French Renaissance chateau opened in 1895 with the most modern amenities of its time, and was opened to the public in 1930. The grounds also include lovely English walled gardens, a European winery and trails through the 8,000 forested acres that surround the massive home. Interstate 40, Exit 50, Asheville. 800624-1575. www. biltmore.com. Extending 469 miles along the Appalachian Mountain chain from the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Western North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most visited scenic drives in the country. Visitors centers along the way have free maps, information and markers so visitors can appreciate the parkway’s natural landscape and history. The parkway was built during the 1930s as a Depression-era public works project and is now the longest, narrowest national park in the world. The Blue Ridge Parkway features recreation areas along the route offering campgrounds, picnic areas, trails, lodges, restaurants and gas stations. 828-298-0398 (recorded parkway information) or 828-271-4779 (headquarters). www.nps.gov/blri.

Botanical Gardens at Asheville

The Asheville Botanical Gardens boasts more than 700 species of plants native to the Southern Appalachians. Showcasing the wide diversity of botanical life in Western North Carolina, the gardens are located adjacent to the University of North

Photo Courtesy of Biltmore Estate

Blue Ridge Parkway

Biltmore Estate, George W. Vanderbilt’s historic property in Asheville, NC.

Carolina at Asheville and admission is free to visitors. Donations are welcome. The Botanical Gardens at Asheville is also available to host weddings and other events. 151 W.T. Weaver Blvd., Asheville. 828-2525190. www.ashevillebotanicalgardens.org.

Cataloochee Valley Elk

A special program has been designed to re-introduce the Cataloochee Valley Elk

population – once missing from the Great Smoky Mountains for a span of more than 150 years – back into the area. In early summer, visitors can observe the released elk and their baby calves. Interstate 40 to Highway 276, off Cove Creek Road. Cataloochee Valley, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 865436-1200. www.nps.gov/ grsm/naturescience/elk.htm. Newcomers guide |

1750s. A newly renovated museum and the 200-foot Mingo Falls are also popular attractions at the reservation, and nature lovers can enjoy mountain biking, tubing and trout fishing, while Harrah’s Cherokee Casino offers indoor excitement. There are plenty of campgrounds and other lodging facilities for visitors. Interstate 40 to Exit 27, west on Interstate 74 to Exit 74, Cherokee. 800-4381601. www.cherokee-nc. com.

Cherokee Indian Reservation

For those interested in current and past Cherokee culture, the Cherokee Indian Reservation is the perfect opportunity.

Located one hour west of Asheville, situated next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the reservation features a recreation of a Cherokee village from the

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Chimney Rock Park’s panoramic, 75mile views overlooking Lake Lure make it a popular destination for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Just 25 miles southeast of Asheville, trails ranging from easy to strenuous wind through the park and offer stops along the way including the 404- foot Hickory Nut Falls and the Nature Center. Visitors can also see Cliff Trail and Inspiration Point, where scenes from “The Last of the Mohicans” were filmed. Highway 64/74A, Chimney Rock. 800277- 9611. www.chimneyrockpark.com.

P RINT ~ C O P Y ~ S C AN ~ FA X

Cherokee Islands Park.

Photo by Adam Taylor

Chimney Rock Park

Local Attractions Beer Scene Thrives in Asheville Home to nine breweries, Asheville is a front runner in the recent surge in craft beers and microbreweries in the United States. In fact, the city is still basking in the glow of winning the 2010 Beer City USA online poll, beating out Portland, Ore., for top billing.

Local breweries: • Asheville Brewing Co., 77 Coxe Ave., Asheville. Microbrewery. www.ashevillepizza.com.

• Craggie Brewing Co., 197 Hilliard Ave., Asheville. Microbrewery. www.craggiebrewingco.com. • French Broad Brewing Co., 101-D Fairview Road, Ashville. Microbrewery. www.frenchbroadbrewery.com. • Green Man Brewing Co., 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville. Microbrewery. www.jackofthewood.com. • Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Suite H, Asheville. Regional brewery. www.highlandbrewing.com. • Lexington Avenue Brewing - The LAB., 39 North Lexington Ave., Asheville. Brewpub. www.lexavebrew.com. • Oyster House Brewing Co./Lobster Trap Restaurant, 35 Patton St., Asheville. Brewpub. www.oysterhousebeers.com. • Wedge Brewing Co., 129-B Roberts St., Asheville. Microbrewery. www.wedgebrewing.com.

Photo Courtesy of the Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

• Asheville Pizza and Brewing, 675 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. Brewpub. www.ashevillepizza.com.

Visitors to the Asheville area frequent tasting rooms opened by area brewing companies.

Local festivals:

Best of 2010 RateBeer.com, a craft beer aficionado website named several Asheville area restaurants, breweries and craft beer stores in their annual RateBeer Best 2010.

• Bruisin’ Ales – No. 3 best beer retailer worldwide. • The Thirsty Monk – No. 41. Beer Bar • Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria – No. 27 Beer Restaurant • Mellow Mushroom – No. 41 Beer Restaurant • Highland Brewing – No. 26 Brewery to Visit • Wedge Brewery – No. 43 Brewpub Source: ExploreAsheville.com, http://www.ratebeer.com/RateBeerBest/default_2010.asp

Brewgrass Festival Hosted by the Great Smokies Craft Brewers Association and benefitting Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Western North Carolina. More than 40 American breweries showcase more than 120 different beers with a lineup of national and regional bluegrass musicians. September 18, 2010 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Asheville. http://brewgrassfestival.com/t/tickets. NOCtoberfest Presented by the Nantahala Outdoor Center, this fall festival also features the 106-mile Tour de Nantahala Road Ride, live music, Bavarian-themed food and beer. Oct 23-24, 2010. www. noc.com/noccom/festivals-a-events/noctoberfest/. Brews Cruise Beer Fest Brews Cruise presents its annual Winter Warmer Beer Festival, held each January. Event includes food, music and of course, locally-brewed beer. 2011 date to be announced. http://www.brewscruise.com/beerfest/

Newcomers guide |

Photo by Michael Oppenheim

Bird Watching in Asheville

eaver Lake Bird Sanctuary is located just a few miles north of downtown Asheville. With half uplands and half wetlands, the 10-acre sanctuary offers the perfect setting for viewing birds as they rest, feed and nest. It also includes a boardwalk loop with two lake overlooks and several benches. Bird walks are held year-round on the first Saturday of each month. October through March, the walks begin at 9 a.m. and April through September, they begin at 8 a.m. www.main.nc.us/emas/birding.html. Blue Ridge Parkway provides a refuge for more than 250 bird species from its highest elevations to the bottom of its valleys. Within its 4,000 acres the Parkway also offers streams, lakes and wetlands. Several rare species of birds can be seen along the Parkway including cerulean warblers and peregrine falcons. www. blueridgeparkway.org. Chimney Rock Park has been called a haven for birds and birding lovers. The park offers a mix of deciduous forests and wet thickets. And its high cliffs offer an unusually cool climate even the park has a relatively low altitude. A spectacular sight is the hawk migration, which occurs every September and October and brings more than 500 broad-winged hawks through the park on the way south. www. chimneyrockpark.com. Great Smoky Mountains National Park rises nearly a mile above the foothills providing a diversity of habitats and microclimates for a variety of birds. More than 240 species of birds have been found in the park and 60 species can be seen year-round. http://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm. North Carolina Arboretum is located within the Bent Creek Experimental Forest of the Pisgah National Forest. The 434-acre public garden includes 65 acres of cultivated gardens and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. It is a center for education, research, conservation and economic development. Birding is just one of the many activities it offers visitors of all ages. www.ncarboretum.org. 82

| Newcomers guide

Dupont State Forest

This 10,400-acre state forest boasts more than 80 miles of road and trails, making it one of the best spots in the region for mountain biking, especially along Cedar Rock Mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vast expanses of exposed granite. Dupont State Forest is known for its abundance of waterfalls and is also open to fishing, hunting, hiking and horseback riding. Off U.S. 64 between Brevard and Hendersonville. 828-877-6527. www.dupontforest.com.

Hot Springs

Claiming the only natural hot mineral springs in North Carolina, the resort town of Hot Springs is nestled where the French Broad River and the Appalachian Trail intersect. Hot Springs Resort and Spa use these soothing mineral waters by pumping them into outdoor hot tubs. Guests can also take advantage of massage therapists, suites and a campground with RV hookups, as well as primitive camping sites. Off U.S. 25 North. www.hotspringsnc.org.

Maggie Valley

At the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in western Haywood County, Maggie Valley is a resort area where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, antique shops and dozens of bed and breakfasts. Cataloochee Ranch offers horseback riding and the Cataloochee Ski Area features snow skiing and snowboarding. 800-334-9036. www.smokeymountains. net. www.cataloochee.com. www.cataloocheeranch.com.

North Carolina Arboretum

Covering 434 acres, the North Carolina Arboretum provides educational programs, research and garden demonstrations in a variety of foliage, including the Bonsai Exhibition Garden. Located in the Bent Creek Watershed, the Arboretum also features walking trails with markers describing the vegetation. 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville. 828-665-2492. www.ncarboretum.org.

Local Attractions

The Old Pressley Sapphire Mine – known as “one of the best kept secrets in Western North Carolina” – is where the world’s two largest sapphires were discovered, including the 1,445-carat sapphire named “Star of the Carolinas.” Located in Canton, there are opportunities for mining sapphires, moonstones and other precious minerals. 240 Pressley Mine Road, Canton. 828648-6320. www.oldpressleymine.com.

Pack Place

Containing the Colburn Earth Science Museum, Asheville Art Museum and Health Adventure, Pack Place serves as a central location that combines Asheville’s unique culture and history. The facility regularly conducts workshops, lectures, public programs and a myriad of educational opportunities, and there is a wide array of visual art on display. Pack Place opened in June and is adjacent to Pack Square Park. 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville. 828-2574500. www.packplace.org.

Photo Courtesy of Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Old Pressley Sapphire Mine

Downtown Asheville’s Urban Trail inspires a new generation of artistic expression.

Pisgah National Forest

Covering more than 500,000 acres surrounding Asheville, Pisgah National Forest offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, paddling, tubing and camping at a campground or by backpacking in. The word Pisgah comes from the Bible – it was the mountain from which Moses saw the promised land – and

Mount Pisgah is one of the highest peaks within the forest. The Cradle of Forestry is a 6,500-acre historic site that memorializes early conservation efforts by George Vanderbilt, who pioneered forestry preservation. The Pisgah National Forest also features Sliding Rock, a natural waterslide, Looking Glass Falls and the gorgeous Linville Gorge. 828-877-3265. www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc.

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Newcomers guide |

Smith-McDowell House Museum

Photo Courtesy of NC Division of Tourism

Dating back to more than 20 years before the Civil War, the Smith-McDowell House Museum is the first mansion built in Asheville and its oldest surviving structure. At four stories, the SmithMcDowell House Museum was once home to many government officials and friends of the Vanderbilts from Biltmore Estate. The grounds are also the site of the Buncombe County Civil War Memorial. Special events are held throughout the year. 283 Victoria Road, Asheville. 828-2539231. www.wnchistory.org.

Thomas Wolfe House Color on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Riverside Cemetery

As the burial site of so many famous figures, Riverside Cemetery is located in the Montford Historic District and offers guided tours that depict the lives of those

buried here. Riverside Cemetery is the final resting place of Thomas Wolfe, O. Henry and Zebulon Vance, a North Carolina governor. 53 Birch St., Asheville. 828-350-2066.

Arc Agency, Inc.

Property Management

828/350-9400 (phone)

828/350-9099 (fax)

549 Merrimon Ave. Suite #203 Asheville, NC 28804 PO Box 1008 Asheville, NC 28802

www.arcagencyasheville.com

| Newcomers guide

Literary giant Thomas Wolfe grew up in Asheville, and his childhood home – which also served as a boarding house – provided the inspiration for his novel “Look Homeward, Angel.” The Thomas Wolfe House features exhibits on Wolfe and his literary works. 52 N. Market St., Asheville. 828-253-8304. www.wolfememorial.com.

We offer full service Real Estate services for buyers and sellers, specializing in residential property management. Whether you are a tenant renting a unit or an owner with an investment property to be managed. We have over 20 years combined experience in the property management industry. Contact us today for more information about our Property Management and Real Estate Services.

Local Attractions

Urban Trail

Great Expectations

Grapes of the NC Wine Country.

Photo Courtesy of NC Division of Tourism

Visitors can go on a guided tour or just take a map around the city to see the historic landscape of Asheville. Along the 1.7-mile trail, you can see architecture, historic sites and neighborhoods, as well as a replica of Thomas Wolfe’s size 13 bronze shoes. The route traces distinct eras through four centuries of Asheville’s history, including the Gilded Age, Frontier Period, Times of Thomas Wolfe, Era of Civic Pride and the Age of Diversity. The guided tours run from April through October, and those taking the self-guided tour can rent audiocassettes and headphones from Pack Place. 828-258-0710.

sheville is becoming well known as the perfect location for hosting corporate retreats and team building activities. Companies typically seek such activities as a way to reward employees while building a stronger working unit. The sessions are often used to focus on improving communication, working together efficiently and improving leadership skills – all through programs that present oldfashioned ideas in out-of-the-box activities and settings. Highland Lake Inn, for example, offers a unique facility for businesses who want to incorporate productive meetings in a quiet country setting. Located in Flat Rock about 20 minutes from the Asheville airport, Highland Lake sits on 26 lakeside acres and offers guestrooms, amenities and flexible meeting space. Corporate groups can also find a teambuilding adventure on the river with organizations like Wildwater Rafting. Wildwater offers a range of activities from half-day rafting games to weeklong in-depth professional development workshops. All can be tailored based on a variety of experience and confidence levels. Wildwater also offers Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours, Chattooga Ridge Canopy Tours, High Ropes course, Low Ropes course, Ground Based initiatives and experienced facilitators to complement a corporate adventure training program. Camping is also available.

Western North Carolina Nature Center

Highlighting the region’s rich natural landscape and wildlife, the Western North Carolina Nature Center also features artifacts from Asheville’s mountain history. The Main Exhibit Building displays birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects, including those common and extinct. Visitors can also enjoy the Petting Area, Otter Habitat, Nocturnal Hall, Predator Habitat, Educational Farm, a log cabin from the early 1800s and the nature trail. 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville. 828298-5600. www.wildwnc.org. Newcomers guide |

Welcome

Getting Started DISTANCE (in miles)

CLIMATE

Asheville Hendersonville Weaverville Waynesville

Avg. High

Avg. Low

Avg. Precip.

Jan.

46F

27F

3.07 in.

Feb.

50F

29F

3.19 in.

March

58F

36F

3.83 in.

April

67F

44F

3.16 in.

283

May

74F

52F

3.53 in.

288

267

June

81F

60F

3.24 in.

309

322

301

July

84F

64F

2.97 in.

293

321

335

314

Aug.

83F

62F

3.34 in.

360

339

366

380

359

Washington, DC

471

495

463

500

503

Sept.

77F

56F

3.01 in.

Orlando, FL

584

563

591

604

583

Oct.

68F

45F

2.40 in.

New York City, NY

691

714

682

719

722

Nov.

58F

37F

2.93 in.

Miami, FL

794

773

801

815

793

Dec.

50F

30F

2.59 in.

Asheville Airport

Greenville/ Spartanburg,SC

100

Charlotte, NC

124

111

138

153

132

Knoxville, TN

129

144

123

112

152

Columbia, SC

158

137

165

178

157

Atlanta, GA

208

187

215

169

183

Raleigh, NC

251

275

260

279

Charleston, SC

268

247

275

Myrtle Beach, SC

302

281

Savannah, GA

314

Wilmington, NC

2008

2012 Projection

Asheville City

$33,091

$39,906

$44,325

Buncombe County

$36,795

$43,805

$49,216

Haywood County

$34,029

$39,042

$45,764

Henderson County

$38,385

$46,047

$50,597

Madison County

$31,065

$38,077

$40,840

Asheville MSA*

$36,419

$43,744

$48,603

North Carolina

$39,257

$46,574

$54,370

United States

$42,257

$52,029

$52,723

| Newcomers guide

Month

POPULATION

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME 2000

Brevard

Asheville

2000 census

2008 est

% change

68,889

78,313

13.68%

Black Mountain

7,511

8,597

14.46%

Brevard

6,789

7,170

5.61 %

Hendersonville

10,569

12,993

22.93%

Waynesville

9,232

9,957

7.85%

Weaverville

2,416

3,231

33.73%

Buncombe County

206,310

227,875

10.45%

Haywood County

54,033

57,108

5.69%

Henderson County

89,192

103,836

16.42%

Madison County

19,635

20,810

5.98%

Asheville MSA*

369,171

412,672

11.783%

North Carolina

8,046,406

9,380,884

16.6%

281,424,602

307,006,550

9.1%

United States

* Asheville MSA includes Buncombe, Henderson, Haywood and Madison counties

Getting Started

VOTER REGISTRATION Buncombe County

189 College St., Asheville

828-250-4200

Haywood County

1233 N. Main St., Waynesville

828-452-6633

Henderson County

75 E. Central Ave., Hendersonville

828-697-4970

Jackson County

401 Grindstaff Cove Road, Sylva

828-586-7538

Madison County

5707 Hwy. 25/70, Marshall

828-649-3731

Transylvania County

221 S. Gaston St., Brevard

828-884-3114

Yancey County

225 West Main St., Burnsville

828-682-3950

Buncombe County Tax Office

828-250-4910

www.buncombecounty.org/governing/depts/Tax

Haywood County Tax Office

828-452-6643

www.haywoodnc.net

Henderson County Tax Office

828-697-5595

www.hendersoncountync.org/depts/collector.html

Jackson County Tax Office

828-586-7567

http://taxadmin.jacksonnc.org

Madison County Tax Office

828-649-3014

www madcotax.com

Transylvania County Tax Office

828-884-3200

www.transylvaniacounty.org/TaxAsses.htm

Yancey County Tax Office

828-682-2197

www.yanceycountync.gov

PROPERTY TAXES

DRIVERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LICENSE OFFICES 600 Tunnel Road, Asheville

828-252-8526

1624 Patton Ave., Asheville

828-251-6065

Rates for 2009-2010 fiscal year per $100 assessed valuation. Buncombe County

$0.525

Haywood County

$0.514

125 Baystone Drive, Hendersonville

828-692-6915

Henderson County

$0.462

290 Lee Road, Clyde

828-627-6969

Jackson County

$0.28

164 N. Main St., Marshall

828-649-2248

Madison County Transylvania County

$0.51 $0.3949

304A S Broad St., Brevard

828-883-2070

Yancey County

$0.45

338 Keener St., Sylva

828-586-5413

Asheville

$0.42

828-682-9619

Biltmore Forest

$0.30

Black Mountain

$0.32

116 N. Main St., Burnsville

VEHICLE REGISTRATION OFFICES

Brevard

$0.4325

Chimney Rock

$0.075

85 Tunnel Road, Asheville

828-252-8526

Columbus

$0.45

153 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville

828-667-2104

Hendersonville

$0.38

145 Four Seasons Mall, Hendersonville

828-692-0648

Hot Springs

$0.51

478 Champion Drive, Canton

828-646-3406

Lake Lure

$0.21

Mars Hill

$0.46

80 Waynesville Plaza, Waynesville

828-452-1577

Marshall

$0.56

45 N. Main St., Marshall

828-649-3528

Saluda

$0.515

62 New Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest

828-883-3251

Sylva

$0.30

454 E. Main St., Sylva

828-586-3886

Tryon

$0.5258

728 W. Main St., Burnsville

828-682-2312

Waynesville

$0.40

Weaverville

$0.355 Newcomers guide |

Welcome ELECTRICITY

Duke Energy www.duke-energy.com

Haywood EMC www.haywoodemc.com

Progress Energy www.progress-energy.com

NATURAL GAS Progress Energy www.progress-energy.com PSNC Energy www.psncenergy.com/en

PUBLIC UTILITIES City of Asheville Water Resources www.ashevillenc.gov/residents/public_services/water_service Metropolitan Sewerage District of Buncombe County www.msdbc.org City of Asheville Sanitation www.ashevillenc.gov/residents/public_ services/sanitation Henderson County Utilities www.hendersoncountync.org/depts/ utilities.html

CABLE/INTERNET/PHONE

AT&T www.att.com Charter Communications www.charter.com DirecTV www.directv.com Mountain Area Information Network www.main.nc.us StarBand www.starband.com TDS Telecom www.tdstelecom.com Verizon www.verizon.com

NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES www.ncdot.org/dmv

VOTER REGISTRATION Buncombe County www.buncombecounty.org/governing/ depts/election Haywood County www.haywoodnc.net Henderson County http://hendersoncountync.org/elections Jackson County http://boe.jacksonnc.org Madison County www.main.nc.us/madison/voting.html Transylvania County www.transylvaniaelections.org 88

| Newcomers guide

Helpful Links Yancey County www.yanceycountync.gov/county-departments/board-of-elections

AIRPORTS Asheville Regional Airport www.flyavl.com Hendersonville Airport www.hendersonvilleairport.com

TRAINS Amtrak www.amtrak.com Great Smoky Mountains Railroad www.gsmr.com WNC Rail Service www.bytrain.org/future/western.html

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION Buncombe County Transportation www.buncombecounty.org/governing/ depts/Transportation

CITY/COUNTY RESOURCES

Laurel Park Town Government www.laurelpark.org Madison County Government www.madisoncountync.org Mars Hill Town Government www.townofmarshill.org Marshall Town Government www.townofmarshall.org Montreat Town Government www.townofmontreat.org North Carolina County Seats, Cities, Towns www.northcarolinacountymaps.com/ aaallnc.shtml Polk County Government www.polknc.org Sylva Town Government www.townofsylva.org Transylvania County Government www.transylvaniacounty.org Tryon Town Government www.tryon-nc.com

Asheville City Government www.ashevillenc.gov

Waynesville Town Government www.townofwaynesville.org

Barnardsville.com www.barnardsville.com

Weaverville Town Government www.weavervillenc.org

Biltmore Forest Town Government http://biltmoreforesttownhall.homestead.com Black Mountain Town Government www.townofblackmountain.com

Yancey County Government www.main.nc.us/yancey

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Buncombe County Government Www.buncombecounty.org

Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce www.ashevillechamber.org

Burnsville Town Government www.townofburnsville.org

Black Mountain-Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce www.blackmountain.org

Canton Town Government www.cantonnc.com

Brevard/Transylania Chamber of Commerce www.brevardncchamber.org

Flat Rock Village Government www.villageofflatrock.org

Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce www.cashiersnc.com

Fletcher Town Government www.fletchernc.org

Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce www.polkchamber.org/

Haywood County Government www.haywoodnc.net

Downtown Waynesville www.downtownwaynesville.com

Henderson County Government www.hendersoncountync.org

Haywood County Chamber of Commerce www.haywood-nc.com

Hendersonville City Government www.cityofhendersonville.org

Henderson County Chamber of Commerce www.hendersoncountychamber.org

Hot Springs Town Government www.townofhotsprings.org

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce www.mountainlovers.com

Jackson County Government www.jacksonnc.org

Madison County Chamber of Commerce www.madisoncounty-nc.com

Lake Lure Town Government www.townofl akelure.com

Polk County Chamber of Commerce www.polkchambernc.com

Helpful Links Saluda Business Association www.saluda.com

Carolina Day School www.cdschool.org

WNC Economic Development Group www.awnc.org

Emmanuel Lutheran School www.emmanuellutheranschool.org

Yancey County Chamber of Commerce www.yanceychamber.com

TOURISM Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority www.exploreasheville.com Dillsboro Merchants Association www.visitdillsboro.org Haywood County Tourism www.smokeymountains.net Henderson County Travel and Tourism http://hendersoncountync.org/travelhvl Jackson County Travel and Tourism www.mountainlovers.com Lake Lure Tourism www.lake-lure.com

Christ School www.christschool.org

LEARNING CENTERS Penland School of Crafts www.penland.org

PUBLICATIONS

Fletcher Academy www.fletcheracademy.com

Asheville Citizen-Times www.citizen-times.com

Hanger Hall School for Girls www.hangerhall.org

Asheville Magazine www.ashevillemagazine.com

Immaculata Catholic School www.immac.org

Asheville Tribune www.ashevilletribune.com

Learning Community School www.thelearningcommunity.org

Black Mountain News www.blackmountainnews.com

Mount Pisgah Academy www.pisgah.us

The Blue Banner www.thebluebanner.net

Nazarene Christian School www.ashevillefirstnazarene.org

Blue Ridge Outdoors www.blueridgeoutdoors.com

Rainbow Mountain Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School www.rmcs.org Veritas Christian Academy www.veritasnc.org

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Madison County www.visitmadisoncounty.com

ArtSpace Charter School www.artspacecharter.org

Transylvania County Tourism www.visitwaterfalls.com

Brevard Academy www.brevardacademy.org

Weaverville Tourism www.visitweaverville.com

Evergreen Communty Charter School www.evergreenccs.org

Hendersonville Times-News www.blueridgenow.com Mountain Xpress www.mountainx.com

TELEVISION STATIONS WYFF-TV 4 (NBC), Greenville www.wyff4.com WLOS-TV 13 (ABC), Asheville www.wlos.com WUNC-TV(PBS), Durham www.unctv.org WSPA-TV 7 (CBS), Greenville/Spartanburg www.wspa.com WYCW-TV 62 (The CW), Greenville/ Spartanburg www.carolinascw.com

Asheville City Schools www.asheville.k12.nc.us

Francine Delany New School for Children www.fdnsc.net

WHNS-TV 21 (FOX), Greenville/Spartanburg www.foxcarolina.com

Buncombe County Schools www.buncombe.k12.nc.us

Summit Charter School www.summitschool.org

570, WWNC, news radio www.wwnc.com

Haywood County Schools www.haywood.k12.nc.us

The Mountain Community School www.tmcschool.org

880, WPEK, news talk www.880therevolution.com

SCHOOLS

Henderson County Schools www.henderson.k12.nc.us

COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

Jackson County Schools www.jcps.k12.nc.us

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College www.abtech.edu

Madison County Schools www.madison.k12.nc.us

Blue Ridge Community College www.blueridge.edu

Transylvania County Schools www.transylvania.k12.nc.us

Brevard College www.brevard.edu

Yancey County Schools www.yanceync.net

Haywood Community College www.haywood.edu

North Carolina Public Schools www.ncpublicschools.org

Mars Hill College www.mhc.edu

North Carolina School Report Cards www.ncreportcards.org

Shaw University Education Center www.shawuniversity.edu

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Montreat College www.montreat.edu

South College www.southcollegenc.edu

AM RADIO STATIONS

1230, WSKY, Christian www.wilkinsradio.com 1450, WHKP, news, music www.whkp.com

FM RADIO STATIONS 88.1, WCQS, NPR news, classic music www.wcqs.org 88.7, WNCW, eclectic music, news www.wncw.org 92.5, WPAP, country www.wpapfm.com 93.7, WFBC, top 40 www.b937online.com 96.5, WOXL, lite rock www.965woxl.com 103.5, MAIN_FM, community programming www.main-fm.org 104.9, WQNS, rock www.rock104rocks.com

Asheville Catholic School www.ashevillecatholic.org

Southwestern Community College www.southwesterncc.edu

Asheville Christian Academy www.acacademy.org

University of North Carolina Asheville www.unca.edu

Asheville-Mountain Area Red Cross www.redcrosswnc.org

Asheville Montessori School www.ashevillemontessorischool.com

Warren Wilson College www.warren-wilson.edu

Asheville Specialty Hospital www.missionhospitals.org

Asheville School www.ashevilleschool.org

Western Carolina University www.wcu.edu

CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital www.carepartners.org

MEDICAL CENTERS

Newcomers guide |

Helpful Links Haywood County Red Cross www.haywoodredcross.com

Nantahala Outdoor Center www.noc.com

Haywood Regional Medical Center www.haymed.org

UNC Asheville Bulldogs www.uncabulldogs.com

Henderson County Red Cross www.hcredcross.org Mission Hospitals www.missionhospitals.org Pardee Hospital www.pardeehospital.org Park Ridge Hospital www.parkridgehospital.org Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care www.urgentcares.com Transylvania Regional Hospital www.trhospital.org VA Medical Center www.asheville.va.gov

SENIOR SERVICES

Shut-In Ridge Trail Run www.shutinridgerun.com

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort www.skiwolfridgenc.com

GOLF North Carolina Golf Courses www.golf.visitnc.com

ARTS

Botanical Gardens at Asheville www.ashevillebotanicalgardens.org Cataloochee Valley Elk www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm Cherokee North Carolina www.cherokee-nc.com Chimney Rock Park www.chimneyrockpark.com Dupont State Forest www.dupontforest.com Hot Springs www.hotspringsnc.org Maggie Valley www.smokeymountains.net

Arts Council of Henderson County www.acofhc.org

North Carolina Arboretum www.ncarboretum.org

Asheville Area Arts Council www.ashevillearts.com

Old Pressley Sapphire Mine www.oldpressleymine.com

Asheville Community Theatre www.ashevilletheatre.org

Pack Place www.packplace.org

Asheville Lyric Opera www.ashevillelyric.org

Pisgah National Forest www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc

Buncombe County Dept. of Social Services www.buncombecounty.org/governing/depts/dss

Asheville Symphony www.ashevillesymphony.org

Riverside Cemetery www.ci.asheville.nc.us/parks/riverside.asp

Land-of-Sky Regional Council Area Agency of Aging www.landofsky.org/aging.html

Blue Spiral 1 www.bluespiral1.com Brevard Music Center www.brevardmusic.org

Smith McDowell House Museum www.wnchistory.org

Buncombe County Council on Aging www.coabc.org

Meals on Wheels – Buncombe www.mowabc.org NC Center for Creative Retirement www.unca.edu/ncccr

ORGANIZATIONS Asheville.com’s Clubs and Organizations Page www.asheville.com/community/ clubs.html Hendersonville.com Club Guide www.hendersonville.com/community/ clubs.html

Diana Wortham Theatre www.dwtheatre.com Fine Arts Theatre www.fineartstheatre.com Flat Rock Playhouse www.flatrockplayhouse.org Folk Art Center www.southernhighlandguild.com Grovewood Gallery www.grovewood.com Haywood Arts Regional Theatre www.harttheatre.com

Asheville New Friends www.main.nc.us/anf

Haywood County Arts Council www.haywoodarts.org

North Carolina Newcomer’s Club Directory www.newcomersclub.com/nc.html

Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra www.hendersonvillesymphony.org

SPORTS AND RECREATION Asheville Drifters www.ashevilledrifters.com Asheville Grizzlies www.eteamz.com/ ashevillegrizzlies Asheville Parks and Recreation www.ashevilleparks.org Asheville Tourists www.theashevilletourists.com Beech Mountain Ski Resort www.skibeech.com Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge www.blackmountainmarathon.com Cataloochee Ski Area www.cataloochee.com Fox Mountain Guides www.foxmountainguides.com Mountain Sports Festival www.mountainsportsfestival.com 90

| Newcomers guide

Thomas Wolfe House www.wolfememorial.com Western North Carolina Nature Center www.wildwnc.org

TOURS Asheville Historic Trolley Tours www.ashevilletrolleytours.com Lazoom Tours of Asheville www.lazoomtours.com Segway Tours www.movingsidewalktours.com Urban Trail www.urbantrails.net Walking Tours of Historic Asheville www.history-at-hand.com

LIBRARIES

New Morning Gallery www.newmorninggallerync.com

Avery-Mitchell-Yancey Regional Library www.amyregionallibrary.org

North Carolina Stage Company www.ncstage.org

Buncombe County Public Libraries www.buncombecounty.org/governing/ depts/Library

Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre www.sartplays.org Southern Highland Craft Guild www.southernhighlandguild.org Toe River Arts Council www.toeriverarts.org Twigs & Leaves www.twigsandleaves.com Vadim Bora Gallery www.vadimborastudio.com YMI Cultural Center www.ymicc.org

PLACES TO GO Biltmore Estate www.biltmore.com Blue Ridge Parkway www.nps.gov/blri

Haywood County Public Library www.haywoodlibrary.org Henderson County Public Library www.henderson.lib.nc.us Jackson County Public Library www.fontanalib.org/sylva Madison County Public Library www.madisoncountylibrary.org Transylvania County Public Library www.transylvania.lib.nc.us