SUPPORT GROUPS/CLUBS

AL-ANON 8pm, First Presbyterian Church, Morganton. 828-433-7109.

AL-ANON 7:30 pm. Western Watauga Community Center, Sugar Grove (Cove Creek). 828-263-0555. 7:30pm Philadelphia Lutheran Church, Granite Falls. 828-754-3987. 12pm (NOON) at First Baptist Church, West Jefferson, 336-384-1940.

ACES is a non-profit networking support group for small business entrepenuer’s in the High Country Area. We specialize in wedding and event planning business. We meet once a month on the third Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:30pm. Please check our website for meeting locations. We are at www.a-c-e-s.us

Area Duplicate Bridge Area Duplicate Bridge will he held Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 1:20 at Lois Harrill Senior Center. Tuesday and Thursday at 1:00 at the Foscoe Grandfather Community Center. Wednesday night at 6:30 at Lois Harrill Senior Center. Sunday afternoon at 2:00 at the Blowing Rock Ruritan Building (near swimming pool complex). For more information call Susan and Dan Duke 963-9450 or 963-0242. Jane Champion 963-8022 or Flo Channey 963-7326.

AL-ANON TH 5:30pm. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Boone. Behind downtown Harris Teeter. 7pm. Lutheran Episcopal Church Of The Savior, Newland, 194 across from Mountain Glenn Golf Course. 828-733-3838. 12 Noon Monday. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, behind downtown Harris Teeter, Boone. 828-262-9912. 8 pm at St. Mary’s of the Hills, Blowing Rock. 828-299-6362. 8pm at United Way Building, North Wilkesboro. FR 8pm, Philadelphia Lutheran Church, Granite Falls. 828-757-9741.

Avery/Watauga Chapter of the Autism Society of NC - Contact Carol Sposato at H: 828-387-4520 or C: 828-387-6101 or online at our website: www.AveryWataugaASNC.org

AWANA is back at Mt Calvary in Banner Elk, Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 8:00. There are classes for 3 year olds through 6th grade. Awana blends Bible teaching, Scripture memorization and tons of fun! Awana will impact kids, their families, and entire communities while helping to make them all that God intends them to be! For more information, contact the church office at 898-4735.

BABES IN ARMS & BABES ON THE MOVE Babes in Arms is a Mom (or Dad) informal parenting support group which meets every Monday afternoon at 2pm at the Wellness Center. This group is for babies from birth to 9 months (and their parent). Babes on the Move meets every Monday at 1pm at the Wellness Center. The target age for this group is 9-18 months. The format includes a short presentation, “play” time for the children, and “social” time for parents. The groups are a great opportunity to learn about resources in the community, meet other Moms, and discuss your concerns. Both groups are facilitated by the Birthing Center Education Office at Watauga Medical Center. Groups are free. Call 262-4285 for more information.

BOONE SHAG CLUB dances weekly at the Meadowbrook Inn in Blowing Rock every Tuesday at 7:30pm. For more information contact George Brown at 773-4969.

BRIDGE GAMES The newly formed High Country Bridge Club offers duplicate bridge games every Tuesday and Thursday at 1:00am at the Grandfather-Foscoe Community Center. Grandfather-Foscoe Community Center is located off of Hwy 105 across from Skyline Telephone and the entrance to Seven Devils. Enter at the Grandfather Campgrounds. Drive across bridge and the community center is immediately on your left. Contact Jane Champion, Club Manager at 963-8022 (mornings) for more information.

Chargers & Rechargers Hiking Club schedules hikes year round to experience the beautiful natural features of our area. You do not have to be a club member to go hiking. Upcoming Hikes: Contact leader Frank Young, 828-963-5188. For more info, see www.boonenc.org/hiking.

christ centered 12 step meeting at South Fork Baptist Church in Todd. Tues. 7pm 877-5608
CMA-Christian Motorcycle Association Peacemakers of Boone NC Chapter Would like to invite you to come join us for Fellowship and Breakfast on the First Saturday of every month at 8:00am at the Golden Corral on Hwy 321 in Boone .We are located central to the five surrounding counties in the high country. Our chapter meeting starts at 9:00 and will run till 10:00am.Afterwards we will a have ride planned out to enjoy the rest of the day. Come by car or motorcycle,it doesn’t matter just come and join us in speading God’s word and enjoying life.

Cone & Price Memorial Parks Programs Join rangers for a tour of the second floor of the former home of Moses and Bertha Cone (milepost 294). Tours are held on Saturdays and Sundays and last about 30 minutes. Reservations are required. Tour times: Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. For reservations call (828) 295-3782 or sign up at the NPS information desk at the Moses Cone Manor House. Registrations accepted beginning at 9 a.m. for the weekend of the requested tour only. No advance reservations please.

crossnore chapter of the national society of the daughters of the american revolution meets on the last Tuesday of the month in the Board Room of the Administration Building on the campus of Crossnore School at 4 in the afternoon. We invite any member or prospective member to join us during these spring, summer and fall months. If you have any questions, please call 733-9207 or 733-5209.

DIVORCECARE is a weekly seminar and support group that meets at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Boone each Wednesday at 6:30pm. Childcare is available. The church is located at 3505 Bamboo Road. Sessions include Facing My Anger, Facing My Loneliness, Depression, New Relationships, KidCare and Forgiveness. For more information call the church office at 828-266-9700.

FREE Childcare (ages 3-7) available at Town of Beech Mountain’s Buckeye Recreation Center Wednesday’s, 5:00p-7:00p. & Saturday’s, 9:00a to 12:00p with participation in Fitness Class or use of Fitness Room. Call 828-387-3003 to register.

HIGH COUNTRY ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS High Country Alcoholics Anonymous Visit www.booneaa.org Watauga County,Boone, Blowing Rock, Vilas

Daily Meetings: Early Birds (C/BB) Mon-Sat 7:00 AM First Baptist Church, Downtown Boone, Noon Group (O/D)Mon-Sat Noon-Boone Methodist Church. Monday Boone Basics (C/BB), 7:00 PM, Grace Lutheran Church, Young at Heart (WW), 7:00 PM Boone Methodist Church

Promises Group (O/ST) 8:00 PM St Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church (Blowing Rock). Tuesday Solutions Group (O/D) 8:00 PM, Grace Lutheran Church. Wednesday Cove Creek (O/D) 7:30 PM, Watauga Community Center (Vilas). Promises Group (O/BB) 6:30 PM, St Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church (Blowing Rock) Thursday Boone Group (O/D/Beg) 7:00 PM, Boone Methodist Church. Friday Womens Serenity (O/D/WW), 6:00 PM St Lukes Episcopal Church. Friday Night Meeting (O/D) 8:00 PM Boone Methodist Church. Saturday Saturday Night Live (O/S) 8:00 PM St Lukes Episcopal ChurchSunday. 11th Stepp Meeting (O/ST) 10:00 AM American Legion Hall (Blowing Rock). Happy Destiny (O/ST) 6:30 PM Catholic Campus Ministry (Behind Blockbuster). Sunday Night Group (C/ST) 8:00 PM Boone Methodist Church

Avery County: Lost and Found (O/D) Tuesday 7:00 PM Canon Memorial Hospital. Newland Serenity (O/ST) Friday 7:00 PM Canon Memorial Hospital

Ashe County: Ashe Unity Group Mon & Wed at Noon, Thu at 7:30 PM Jefferson United Methodist Church Sparta Group Tue & Thu 8:00 PM Presbyterian Church (Sparta)

Wilkes County: Old Town Group at the Medical Arts Building. Mon thru Sat at Noon- (C). Mon & Wed at 8:oo PM (C), Fri & Sat at 8:00 PM (O) Sun 5:30 (C)

Evidence-Based Traditional Taiji and Qigong Program This summer Banner Elk is host to, Alena Nickos, certified Evidence-Based Traditional Taiji and Qigong Program™ instructor for a six week summer session to be held at Lees McRae College. The class will meet on Monday and/or Thursday evenings at 5:30 in the Lees McRae Dance Studio (underneath the Exchange Bookstore.) Participants will learn a concise seven movement Taiji form and the supporting Qigong exercises included in the Program. Taiji and Qigong use a unique combination of flowing movements and quiet meditation that has the power to significantly improve quality of life – physically, mentally and spiritually. For more information please contact: Alena Nickos, 828. 898-2015 or mini.taiji@yahoo.com

HIGH COUNTRY NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS - Thursday - The Fresh Start Group (OD) 8pm at Avery CARES. Saturday - The Fresh Start Group (Open Literture) 8pm at Avery CARES, Sunday - The Fresh Start Group (Open Basic Text) 8pm Avery CARES, Tuesday - The Fresh Start Group (OD) 8pm Avery CARES

High Country christian Singles We are an oganization of single and single again Christian adults who meet the 2nd Monday of each month for dinner, special, programs, fun and fellowship. Dinner is at 6pm followed by a special program for teh evening which ends at 8pm. The meal is $5 except for first-time visitors, who join us as our guests. Child care is R.S.V.P to Mount Vernon Baptist Church office (828)266-9700) or Deanna Holaday (828)264-5358) by Friday before our Monday meeting. We meet at Mount Vernon Baptist Church (in the Meadowview room) which sponsors this Christian Ministry. All singles and single parents are welcome for this time of fellowship and spiritual growth. For more information call (828-266-9700) or (828-264-5358).Mt Vernon Church web page http:/www.mtvernonchurch.org.

Kiwanis of Banner Elk meets Tuesdays at 12 Noon in the rear dining room of the Lees McRae College Cafeteria. Anyone wishing to attend, call 733-8822.

NEW LIFE TWO WHEEL RIDE IN will be held the second Tuesday of each month from 4:30-7:30pm at Smoky Mountain Barbecue in West Jefferson. New Life Mobility Assistance Dogs specializes in the rescue and training of shelter dogs to assist the disabled, providing both person and canine with a new lease on life.

Thursdays — Rotary Club of Avery County- meets from noon to 1 p.m. at Bella’s Italian restaurant in Banner Elk every week. Enjoy a interesting speaker each week and get involved in a fellowship that puts service before self. For more information, call Julia Heinlein, Antler Realty, at 828-898-3111.

Spay and Neuter Program The Avery County Humane Society has a Spay and Neuter Program. You can get your cat neutered for $30. All else for $50. Take advantage of this program and help eliminate the unwanted puppies and kittens from being born. Call the Humane Society at 733-6312 to sign up for the next Spay and Neuter Day.

Spruce Pine Montessori School Thriving and Evolving in 36thYear This is an exciting time at Spruce Pine Montessori School as we work to expand experiential education programs for children, and welcome new staff and board members to the team of dedicated school partners. Spruce Pine Montessori School is a learning center based on the “whole child” educational approach of Dr. Maria Montessori, serving children from preschool through sixth grade. SPMS is currently accepting applications for spaces in the preschool/kindergarten classes. Call Kori Fidler at 828-765-7779 to request information or arrange for a visit.

SEX & LOVE ADDICTS ANONYMOUS Mondays and Thursdays - 6:00 PM. 12-step group sharing experience, strength & hope in dealing with recovery from compulsive sexual & relationship issues. 266-9368.

SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP is now meeting the second Monday of each month at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in downtown Boone at 6:30 pm. Anyone is invited to attend. For more information, please contact Barbara Armstrong at 964-5779 or Linda Denney at 773-2845.

Treasure Hunters Club of the Blue Ridge The Treasure Hunters Club of the Blue Ridge will meet every first Tuesday at 6 pm at Smoky Mtn. BBQ’s back room. The first meeting will be held Tuesday, July 1. Membership is free. Everyone with the love of gems and the hunt are invited. It’s a fun and exciting way to share your love of precious and semi-precious stones, gold, fossils and more. Plus a great way to buy, sell and trade. You might also choose to join in our occassional treasure hunt trips.

W Y Network’s Mentoring Program Western Youth Network’s Mentoring Program would like to invite you to volunteer your spare time and enrich the youth of Avery County. Call Janet Shook or Amy Turner at 828-773-2567 Or check out our website www.westernyouthnetwork.org and Become a Mentor!

MODERN WESTERN SQUARE DANCING - When: Thursdays at 6:30-8:00 PM. Where: YMCA of Avery County. Attire: Casual and soft soled shoes. New dancers always welcome. FREE for Y members; $20 for 6 sessions for non-members. Call 737-5500 for information or register at YMCA. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED!!

Yoga class at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church. Beginner Mondays 10:15-11:15. First class is free! Contact Emily Witherspoon at 828-260-3087

WORSHIP

Acts in Action Acts 2:4 and 2:38 Cornerstone Full Gospel Church would like to invite you for service with us. From Banner Elk light- Right onto 194 to Pigeon Roost Rd.- Right to 2381- first floor. Anyone wishing to receive information on the Holy Ghost please call Rev. Bruce Gray 828-963-2091. Sunday 10am & 6pm, Thursday 7:30pm.

ARBOR DALE PRESBYTERIAN Church 6619 Hickory Nut Gap Rd, Banner Elk. Come worship with us at 9:15 on Sunday mornings followed by fellowship and refreshments at 10:20, then Sunday School for all ages at 10:45. Call 828-898-4628 for more information or visit the website at: www.arbordalechurch.org.

Aaron Baptist Church 280 Old NC Hwy. 181 Banner Elk, NC 828-733-2581

Boone Jewish Community after many years of association with the Boone Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is pleased to advise that we have moved our weekly Shabbat services and meetings to St. Lukes Episcopal Church 170 Council St Boone. For further information please call the Boone Jewish Community at (828) 264-8364.

ST. BERNADETTE CATHOLIC CHURCH Route 105, Linville, N.C. 28646. (828) 898-6900. MASS SCHEDULE: Saturday 4:30pm (June - September), Sunday 11am, Holy Days 11:15am, Daily 11am (Monday and Friday).

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH Sunday School 10am, Morning Service 11am, Afternoon Service 1:30pm. Pastor Brad Calhoun, 166 West 3rd Street, Linville,www.faithbaptistlinville.org

banner elk prebyterian church located across from the Book Store on Lees McRae College campus. Worship at 8:30am (June-Sept) and 11:00am year-round, Sunday School at 9:30, Fellowship at 10:30. . Rev. Joseph Washburn, Pastor.

BANNER ELK UNITED METHODIST The new Sunday schedule, now in effect, begins with Contemporary Worship Service at 9:30am; Sunday School at 10am; Fellowship and Refreshments at 10:30am; and Traditional Worship Service at 11am. Covered Dish Lunch each 4th Sunday following Traditional Worship Service.

Cornerstone Church would like to invite you to worship with us. We are a new group meeting in Banner Elk on Sundays at 2 p.m. and on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. We are truly an Apostolic church from the book of Acts. For more information, call Rev. Gray at 828-963-2091.

CROSSNORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH We invite you to worship with us at the historic “Miracle in the Hills” Church. Sunday’s worship service and Children’s church begin at 11:00am followed by warm fellowship and coffee. This is a great time to get to know each other better, meet with our interim pastor, the Reverend McCoy Franklin, or just catch up on yesterday’s news. We have Sunday school at 10:00am for all age groups and provide a staffed nursery for those who wish to utilize this service. The Lord’s Supper is celebrated every second Sunday. We are located off highway 221 in Crossnore; the rock church up on the hill. For more information contact us at 733-1939, email crospres@yahoo.com or visit our web site at www.CrossnorePresbyterian.com.

DESTINY CHURCH 10 a.m. Inaugural service. “The Meeting House” next to town hall in Crossnore.

FLETCHER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Cow Camp Road, Newland, 10 a.m.

GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Come and join us at Grace Lutheran Church for worship, fellowship, education, and outreach to others. Sunday mornings at 8:30, upbeat liturgy, and 11:00, continuing the joyful tradition. Holy Communion at all services, child care provided for 2 and under. Sunday School for children and adults at 9:45am. www.graceboone.org

Greater Joy Fellowship, Hickory Nut Gap Rd., Newland - Pastor Ronnie Pyatte - Service times: Sunday School 9:45 AM, Morning Worship 10:45 AM, Sunday Evening 6:00 PM, Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 PM. The best Praise & Worship team around, dramatic Children’s Church, come see for yourself. For more information, call 733-1804 or visit our website at www.greaterjoyfellowship.com

LIBERTY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Hwy 194 South, Banner Elk, NC. Sunday worship service 8:30 a.m. Dan Brubaker Pastor. For more information call 963-1108. Visitors are welcome!

LUTHERAN-EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE SAVIOR Holy Eucharist every Sunday at 10 am. 2 miles north of Newland on Hwy 194. 828-733-2513

mountianside lutheran church Camp Linn Haven, LCMS - Sunday Service will be held at Camp Linn Haven, Route 221, Linville, NC 10 a.m. Everyone Welcome. For further information call Pastor Dennis Quackenboss 733-4404

NEWLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (on the town square) A caring fellowship of servants in Jesus Christ, welcoming all in joyous worship, committed outreach, enthusiastic evangelism, and the building of confidence in God’s future. Sunday School is at 9:45 am, Worship at 11:00 am. Come see how we’re growing.

Pleasant Valley Baptist Church Location: in Elk Park, Avery County- 1 ½ miles down Elk River heading toward Elk Falls, you will cross Elk River on a Large Metal Bridge It is a little white church with a large metal building built on the back. Sunday School is from 10:15am to 11:00am followed by Worship from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Sunday evening Worship is from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Wednesday is from 7:00pm to 9:00pm

SHELTER ROCK MINISTRIES Sunday’s at 10:00 AM - Foscoe - Turn at Taylor’s Store, go 1 mile, on left - Open to all…Morning Worship Service…Come as you are to Worship with us… Tuesday’s at 5:00 PM - Foscoe - Turn at Taylor’s Store, go 1 mile, on left - Open to all…Dinner, Music and Fellowship…Free food/grocery distribution after services…For more information call 963-4135.

ST. BERNADETTE CATHOLIC CHURCH Route 105, Linville, N.C. 28646. (828) 898-6900. MASS SCHEDULE: Saturday 4:30pm (June - September), Sunday 11am, Holy Days 11:15am, Daily 11am (Monday and Friday).733-1939

ITEMS OF INTEREST

YMCA OF AVERY COUNTY OFFERING PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS - The air is getting chilly but the pool is nice and warm! The YMCA of Avery County is now taking registration for Private Swim Lessons. Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean kids shouldn’t be learning to swim. For more information, contact the YMCA at 828-737-5500.

4th Annual Avery Caregiver Appreciation Evening The High Country Caregiver Foundations’ Avery Family Caregiver Council is proud to present its 4th annual Caregiver Appreciation Evening on June 19th at the Avery Senior Center in Newland. This year’s theme will be “Dancing with the Stars”. The Caregiver Appreciation Event will be an evening of Dinner, Entertainment, Information & Assistance, Networking, Fellowship and Recognition for community members who are caring for an older family member, neighbor or friend. The evening will offer caregivers an opportunity to meet other caregivers from the community, and learn about available resources in Avery County. Dinner will be catered by Carolina BBQ and individuals from organizations offering assistance to family caregivers will be available to answer questions. Caregivers attending will receive a goody bag and caregiver survival kit. There is no charge for this event, but registration is limited. If you are interested, or know a caregiver who needs an enjoyable night out, please call 733-8220 or 265-5434 x 128 to pre-register.

Go Green! Summer Camp for Kids Go Green is a summer day camp with an environmental science focus. Students, ages 11-13, will conduct hands-on investigations into the health of local ecosystems. Daily activities will also include swimming and boating in Wildcat Lake, hiking, playing outdoor games, and creating art from nature. The camp is offered in five consecutive one-week sessions, from July 6th through August 7th, and meets from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm. For more information, call Deb Cole at 828-898-5465, or visit our website at www.grandfatheracademy.org and click on the “Go Green! Summer Camp” link.

TICKER STOCK Club meets every Thursday @ 10 am at DT’s Blue Ridge Java, Lower St, Spruce Pine. Please join us for a lively discussion on the stock market NO INVESTING! just good conversations. You may bring our laptops(wireless connection )to view current stock info. All levels from beginner to day-traders. Further questions contact: Susann King 828-265-6615 or SIP@HTN.NET

WINERY TOURS & TASTINGS Banner Elk Winery open for Tours and Tastings Wednesday thru Sunday, noon until fi ve. From light in Banner Elk, north (right) on Hwy. 194 1 1/2 mile. Left on Gualtney Rd. Travel 1/4 mile. 828.898.9090 or 828.260.1790 www. bannerelkwinery.com

CAROLINAS’ NATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSOCIATION The Carolinas’ Nature Photographers Association [CNPA] is a photography club divided into 10 regions that cover North and South Carolina. The Foothills Region includes Avery, Watauga, Ashe, Wilkes, Caldwell, Burke, and Catawba counties. We had monthly photo outings and educational meetings. CNPA is the countries largest photography club promoting nature photography and conservation of nature. We are a total volunteer organization of over 850 members.

PreNatal yoga at the Avery YMCA. The Avery Y is now offering prenatal yoga for memebers and nonmembers on Saturday’s from 11-12pm. Prenatal yoga can be practiced during the entire pregnancy. No prior experience is needed. Classes are taught by a certified prenatal instructor. Cost is free for members and $30/ 6 classes for non-members. Contact the Y at 737-5500 with any questions.

Join our local food community! The High Country Community-Supported Agriculture Project is a collaborative effort of organic farms in Watauga, Ashe, and Avery to bring locally-grown food to local people. Our season will run from June through October but the sign-up period will end soon. Our growers come from the New River Organic Growers; Coop and the ASU Sustainable Development Farm. See the farms, see the process, and eat the results! For more information, contact Franya Hutchins at highcountrycsa@gmail.com or 828-963-4656.

Arts Council plans social to celebrate Avery Quilt Trail participants Avery Arts Council Board of Directors and the Quilt Trail Committee are shining the spotlight on Quilt Trail owners throughout Avery County. They are inviting all owners and their families to a party celebrating the ongoing success of the Avery Quilt Trail. If you are interested in becoming a Quilt Square owner you will find information on our website: www.averycountyartscouncil.org. Or you can reach us via phone at 828-898-4292.

Daniel Scagnelli, Fitness & Wellness Coordinator. Arts Council announces plans for 2009 Riverwalk Arts & Crafts Festival Organizers at the Avery Arts Council are starting to gear up for their annual high country summer celebration, The River Walk Arts and Crafts Festival. The summer arts festival is a long-standing tradition in Avery County, and features handmade arts and crafts, a children’s activity corner, food and entertainment. The Festival takes place at Newland’s Riverwalk Park, which makes parking for shoppers and vendors a snap. Simply park in the lot adjacent to the Lowes Grocery store and stroll on over. The Riverwalk Arts and Crafts Festival takes place on Saturday, August 15, from 9am-5pm. For more information, contact the Avery Arts Council office at 828-898-4292, or visit www.averycountyartscouncil.org

Banner Elk Herb Fest Banner Elk will be kicking off the summer season with two days of fun at the first Banner Elk Herb Fest. Lots of herbs food and craft vendors, kid zone. We are still taking applications for all vendors. Please feel free to give me a call for details, Contact Holly Palm at 828-898-6017

FEEL THE BROADSTONE MAGIC! Camp Broadstone located in Valle Crucis is enrolling current 3rd-6th grade children in our Summer Enrichment Day Camp program for academically gifted youth. Each week has a unique theme that is a blend of adventure activities, field experiences, hands-on enrichment classes,and service learning.Session 1B- Blue Ridge Base Camp-June 22-26th Session 2A-Broadstone Sampler-July 6-10th. Session 2B-Aquatic Adventures-July 13-17th. Session 3A-Broadstone Sampler-July 20-24th. Session 3B-Global Village Week-July 27th-July 31. Cost is $250 per session. For more information about activities please call the camp office at 828-963-4640,e-mail rogersnm@appstate.edu, or visit our website www.campbroadstone.com/daycamp.php To register call 828-262-2944 or e-mail higlyba@appstate.edu

Summer Dance Series offered June 9 through July 16. Dancers and dance enthusiasts are invited to participate in the Summer Dance Series, a set of mixed-level classes with different teachers and dance styles each week from June 9 to July 16 on the Appalachian State University campus. The series will be held Wednesdays and Thursdays from noon to 1:15 or 1:30 in Varsity Gym dance studio, Room 208. The public is welcome. Dances may include ballet, various modern styles, jazz, gyrokinesis, yoga, belly dance, swing, hula, zumba, Indian and more. In lieu of a class fee, donations may be made to the Visiting Artist Endowment in Appalachian’s Department of Theatre and Dance. To be placed on the series’ e-mail list, contact Regina James at jamesrg@appstate.edu.

Appalachian Rhythm Clogging & Dance hosts the 3rd annual CLOG CAMP featuring celebrity clogger and dancer, Brandon Norris (as seen on FOX’s “So You Think You Can Dance?” and MTV’s “America’s Best Dance Crew”). Clog Camp is July 27-31 at Watauga High School. For grades K-12, beginner-advanced clogging level. For more info, please call Elise at (828) 268-1926 or Ashley at (828) 719-8228 or visit our website at www.apprhythm.com.

Wildcat Lake Open Please contact David Passmore with any questions or concerns at 828.898.5465. Wildcat Lake/Edgar Tufts Park Schedule. Hours of Operation: Now – August 16th. Monday-Saturday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm. Sunday: Noon – 8:00 pm, Weekends only after August 16th through Labor Day

The Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk is now collecting used books for resale at the Fourth of July Festival at the Banner Elk Town Park. Please bring your books to the blue collection barrels located at the Banner Elk Post Office, Newland Post Office, Linville Post Office, Bank of America, Banner Elk, Fifth Third Bank, Banner Elk, Land Harbor Library, Sloop Medical Building and Beech Mountain Town Hall. Please support this worthwhile cause with your donations and purchases on July 4th! Proceeds will go to purchase new books for the Reading is Fundmental (RIF) program for every elementary student in Avery County.

Summer Camp at Spruce Pine Montessori School-SPMS is offering 6 weeks of summer camps for children ages 3-15. Some camps include building & performing with sock puppets, creative cooking, fun with collage, sculpey surprises, and folk art creations. All camps are $85. Please visit www.sprucepinemontessori.org for a complete camp listing and registration form. Call SPMS for more information: 828-765-7779.

Summer Craft Enrichment Classes at ASU Registration is now open for the summer classes for the Michael R. Patricelli Craft Enrichment Program. These workshops are an opportunity for students and community members to have a hands-on experience with many forms of creative expression through learning crafts. This summer there will be classes in pottery, mosaics, digital photography, basket making, drawing, jewelry, weaving, and glass fusing. There is also a new jewelry class using Precious Metal Clays, a new figure drawing class, and a class exploring dream images, using self-exploratory art such as collage, clay and watercolor, and creative writing. Read more and register online at www.craftenrichment.com

The New Opportunity School for Women at Lees-McRae College is to improve the educational, financial, and personal circumstances of low-income women -- usually between the ages of 30-55 -- who live in or hail from the Southern Appalachian region. If you are a woman in a period of transition in your life, or if you wish to clarify your personal strengths and aspirations or if you have spent the last several years as a volunteer and want to now become gainfully employed, but are not certain how to seek a job or how to identify your job skills plan to attend the New Opportunity School for Women. Our next session is July 12 - August 1, 2009. Contact Carrie Guy At guyc@lmc.edu or 828-898-8905.

1989 Avery High Reunion The class of Avery High Class of 1989 will hold its 20th reunion on August 15 from 7 to 12 pm at the Mountain Glen Clubhouse. Tickets are $40 per person and may be purchased by sending a check to “Avery High Class of 1989 Reunion” 3405 Big Plumtree Creek Rd Newland, NC 28657. For more information contact etmarkland@yahoo.com.

Visitors are welcome to join the Mountain Mixers for Western Square Dancing. All dances are held at the Recreation Hall, Land Harbor Parkway off 181/221 in Linville, NC. There will be round dancing between tips on Sunday afternoon. Sunday dances feature national and international callers. Friday dances feature regional callers. www.mountainmixers.com

The Town of Beech Mountain Buckeye Recreation Center SUMMER DAY CAMP - Ages 5-13, June 29-July 3, July 6-July 10, July 13-July 17, July 20-July 24, July 27-July 31, Aug 3-Aug 7. Fee: $125/per camper/per week. Or $30/per camper/per day. To Register Call Buckeye Recreation Center or Go Online at www.townofbeechmountain.com. **Day camp registration is ongoing,subject to availability and will be takenon a first come first serve basis.Payment must be received at the timeof registration.** Activities include team building,wilderness survival, hiking, canoeing, ceramics, slipnslide,and more!!Participants will meet at Buckeye Recreation Center unless otherwise noted each morning of camp. Camp will run Monday to Friday from 9:00am – 3:00pm. If you have questions regarding registration, please call 828.387.3003.

RDU Tennis and Soccer Camp Hosted by Buckeye Recreation, RDU Tennis and Soccer and Lees McRae College Ladies Soccer Team. Ages 513. Monday through Thursday, 9:00am - 3:00pm. Friday will be used as a rain makeup day. Second Tennis Camp: July 20– July 24, 2009; Second Soccer Camp: Aug 3– Aug 6, 2009. Registration is limited and is a first come, first serve basis! Please Bring a Lunch!

Summer Qigong &T’ai Chi Program Banner Elk, North Carolina, June – August , 2009. June marks the beginning of a new summer session of outdoor Qigong and Taiji classes in Banner Elk, this year to be held at Tate Evans Park. Come experience a health care modality that promotes multi-dimensional wellness benefits by nurturing body, mind, and spirit in a balanced manner. Alena Nickos, certified Evidence-Based Traditional Taiji and Qigong Program™ instructor, encourages all fitness levels to participate in the seven week course. Learn a five movement Qigong gentle exercise set and some Taiji solo movement forms that you can do on your own once the session is complete. Class times: 5:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 am Wednesday, 8:30 am Saturday. For more information please contact Alena: (828) 897-2015 or (941) 321-1075

47th Annual Roasting of the Hog at Beech Mountain on the Fourth of July Smoked Turkey and special barbeque pork created by the firemen on Beech, they start cooking at 3 am. The party starts a t five pm and there is music and fireworks at dusk. Start the day at Banner Elk for the Parade and then go to the Buckeye Rec center for family fun till 1pm. Then head for the Roast in the evening. Call chamber for more info 828-387-9283

ENJOY GENTLE MOVEMENT - BANNER ELK PARK Develop a greater degree of balance, coordination, agility and relaxed concentration. Improve your health and vitality with focused gentle movements fuled by breath and intention. Group class outside at Tate-Evans Park Tuesday & Thursday evenings at 5:30 and/or Wednesday & Saturday mornings at 8:30 thru August 8th. Certified and experienced instructor will teach a short series of movements that participants can also do at home. For more information, please call 828-897-2015.

Banner House Museum Open June 20-October 17 Located at 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Road, Banner Elk, featuring “Life in Banner Elk 1860-1865”, an exhibit from Steve Chandler’s Civil War Collection, and a Heritage Room with genealogy charts of founding families, the museum is open Tues.-Sat., 11AM-4PM. Admission Adults $5 Children 6-12 $1. Detail: www.bannerhousemuseum.org or call 828-898-3634. June 23-Oct. 17, Museum Open for the season. Tues.-Sat., 11AM-4PM, with docent led tours. June 24-August 5, Elk Camp for Children ages 6-10, each Wed. from 2-4. Children will have hands on learning experiences about pioneer life. Call Phyllis @828-898-3634 for reservations

Elk Camp for Children will be open at the Banner House Museum Wednesday afternoons June 24-Aug 5th from 2-4 PM for children ages 6-10. Children will have hands on learning experiences about pioneer life. Charge is $5. Make reservations with Phyllis @828-898-3634.

Banner Elk Christian Fellowship will be presenting the local group Patricia Mac in a free concert on Friday July 3rd at 7 PM. Come here Southern Soulful christian music from this group which include banjo, mandolin, hammered dulcimer, percussion, acoustic smokey vocals and more! nursery will be provided for more info. contact Hugh @ 828 260-1407

Knitwear Designer, Technical Editor and Teacher, Shirley MacNulty will demonstrate knitting and answer your knitting questions at the Great Train Robbery, 2120 Tynecastle HWY 184, Banner Elk on Saturday, July 4 from 12 noon until 3 pm. Shirley is a member of the Association of Knitwear Designers, National Needlearts Association, Knitting Guild Association, The Blue Ridge Fiber Guild and the Mile High Knitting Club. For questions call Shirley at 828-260-1859, 828-897-9096 or the Train Robbery at 828-898-8645.

2009 Elk Camp for Children ages 6-10 has begun its new season at the Banner House Museum, 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Rd., Banner Elk. Offering hands on experiences of pioneer life and nature studies. Wednesdays 2-4, July 1-August 5, $5 per session. Call Phyllis @828-898-3634 for reservations.

Award winning authors will be signing books at the Author Booth at the Great Train Robbery in Banner Elk all day on Saturday and Sunday. Stop by a chat with authors Maggie Bishop (mystery & romance), Bill Kaiser (civil war novel), Nancy Kaiser (animal communicator), Nora Percival (memoir), Donna Akers Warmuth (local history) and the duo of Jack Pyle & Taylor Reese who write books ranging from humor to mystery to non-fiction to memoirs.

Parks and Recreation Summer Events Avery Parks and Recreation will continue to sponsor camps throughout the summer months, with four weeks of camps already under our belts. Tommy Burleson Basketball Camp will be held July 20th through the 24th, with Bobby Jones scheduled as this year’s special guest. The annual Bulldog Baseball Camp will be held the week of July 27th through the 31st, under the direction of Viking Assistant Samuel Phillips and various college players. This year a new camp will be offered at the Rock Gym, Extreme Dance Camp, and will run from August 3rd until August 7th. All camp registration information is available at the Rock Gym in Newland.

The Parks and Recreation Pool in Newland is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. The pool continues to undergo yearly updates, and the staff members have trained hard to keep the customers safe and happy. Free pool dates for the 2009 season include July 4th during the Newland town celebrations, and another Saturday to end the season with a date as yet to be determined. Evening pool parties can be scheduled at the Pool Complex for a cost of $75 for two hours swimming including all staff.

Both Men’s and Women’s adult softball leagues are in full swing, with games being played at the Rock Gym Complex each Monday, Tuesday and Thursday beginning at 6 p.m. These leagues provide great entertainment and are free to the public with plenty of seating, but lawn chairs are always welcome. This season our leagues include 23 teams in four divisions.For more information on any or all of these recreation events and offerings, please call the Avery Parks and Recreation Department at 733-8266.

Youth Football Signups Begin July 1st Avery County Parks and Recreation announces the opening of registration for youth football beginning July 1st. Youth should register at the Recreation Center at the Rock Gym in Newland during regular business hours. Registration will continue through “Football Day in Avery County” on August 1st. Registration fees are $45. This season the youth programs within the county will be directed by the Recreation Department for the first time in history. Our teams will be playing in a new league along with teams from Watauga, Ashe, and Wilkes counties. New weight divisions will be employed although age divisions will remain the same. We look forward to hosting games and our first “Football Day in Avery County”, so sign up and join in on the excitement and fun! For more information, please call the Recreation Department at 733-8266.

Youth Football Coaching Applications Now Available Through Avery County Parks and Recreation Avery Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce the creation of a new football board of operations for the county’s youth football program. Members of this newly formed board are retired Coach Charles “Babe” Howell, Avery High Coach Darryl Brewer, Avery Middle Coach Donnie Johnson, Cranberry Middle Coach Richard Sheppard, and past Clemson All-American John Phillips. Along with the leadership of this board, Avery Parks and Recreation hopes to unify football programs within the county, placing more importance on long term achievement on the field of play. Our goal is for all children entered in the youth programs within the county to continue their careers through the high school level and hopefully beyond. All returning and prospective youth coaches who are interested in coaching at any level prior to middle school will be able to attain an application at the Recreation Department offices at the Rock Gym in Newland during regular business hours. The football board has requested all head coaching applicants have at least three years playing experience at the high school level, but all applications will be considered. Coaching applications will be accepted at the Rock Gym through the closing of business hours July 15th. All coaches will undergo mandatory coaches training through USA Football, and all Recreation Department volunteers also undergo mandatory background screening. We look forward to a great 2009 youth football season.

FORMER AVERY PASTOR TO RETURN A former pastor, the Rev. John Duvall, will preach at Pine Grove United Methodist Church on July 5 at the 11 AM service. The event marks exactly 50 years since he came to Avery Charge (now Toe Valley) in 1959. His sermon topic will be “Today IS the Day” from Luke 19:5-9. While serving in the area, Rev. Duvall also taught at Harris High School and briefly at Riverside School. He was active in Vesper Masonic Lodge and the Spruce Pine Eastern Star chapter. Later he served as Oxford Orphanage chaplain and was a pastor in Virginia and in Charlotte and Mooresville, NC. He continues to have many friends and acquaintances in the Mitchell-Avery area. Now a retired elder in WNC Conference, Rev. Duvall lives at Valley Magister Farm in Comers Rock, Virginia. Everyone is invited to attend the service at Pine Grove. The Rev. Ken Anderson is the present Pine Grove/Toe Valley UMC pastor.

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