ITEMS OF INTEREST

FREE INTRODUCTORY Healing Touch Sessions at Blue Mountain Center Akal Dev Sharonne, CHTP, offers free Healing Touch at the Blue Mountain Center for the Healing Arts. Healing Touch is energy healing for ailments ranging from cancer to the common cold. Call (828)264-1384 to schedule your appointment.

Drop off donations at Green Mother Goods. Green Mother Goods is a donation drop-off point for two local charities. First Watauga Humane Society: The animals at the shelter are in need of blankets, and lightweight fleece blankets are preferred, but any old blanket donations are welcomed. You can also drop off your food and toy donations for the Banquet Table at Green Mother Goods’ convenient location (parking available). The Banquet Table is an annual food and toy drive to assist local families during the holiday season. Green Mother Goods will offer 10% off any toys bought for the toy drive. 116 W. King Street in Boone. 262-3525

Strengthen Your Family! New Small Groups for Learning and Support, for Parents of Young Children and Nearly or Newly Married Couples. FaithBridge United Methodist Church will soon offer Small Groups for Parents of Young Children and also for Nearly or Newly Married Couples. For more information and to register, contact the church office at 828-295-8333 or email info@faithbridgeumc.org . The church’s website is www.faithbridgeumc.org . The community is also invited to worship with us, on Sundays at 11:00am at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium on Sunset Drive in Blowing Rock. Dress is casual (or “come-as-you-are”), child care is provided, and everyone is welcome.

Gift Memberships & Discounted Passes to The Children’s Playhouse On Sale Now Why give toys that are going to break in a few weeks? When you give your favorite family a membership to The Children’s Playhouse, the High Country’s only not for profit children’s museum, they get a full year of playful learning at their favorite indoor/outdoor play space, plus discounts on classes and parties. Make your gift a Passport membership and they can visit over 150 children’s museums around the country and will get to make a keepsake photo craft perfect to give the gift-giver! Also for a limited time, Playhouse members can purchase up to 10 guest passes at the discounted rate of $3.50 per person (a 30% savings). Purchase with a credit card online at www.goplayhouse.org or call 828-263-0011. Located at 400 Tracy Circle near downtown Boone, The Children’s Playhouse provides an enriching play environment for children from birth to age eight that at the same time offering parents and caregivers friendly support in the important job of rai!sing children.

NO Watauga County Gospel Singing There will be NO Watauga County Gospel Singing for the month of December - the next singing will be scheduled in January, 2009.

Sign Up for the 2009 Master Gardener Program! The Watauga County Cooperative Extension Service is now taking applications for the 2009 Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program. The Master Gardener Program is designed for anyone interested in horticulture topics, from the beginner to the expert. The extensive training involves 12 weeks of instruction, to be followed by a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer service by program trainees. The program series will be held on Tuesday mornings at the Agricultural Conference Center in Boone, beginning on March 3 and ending May 22, 2009. Classes will meet from 9AM to 12PM The cost of the class is $85 and includes an extensive instruction manual. Applications can be picked up at the Watauga Extension Center, located at 971 West King Street in Boone or you can print an application from our website, http://watauga.ces.ncsu.edu. The application deadline is Monday, Feb. 16. Questions? Contact Meghan Baker at meghan_baker@ncsu.edu or 828-264-3061.

NEW YEARS EVE GALA! Antler Realty New Years Eve Gala to be held at the Banner Elk Winery. Time is from 9:30 to 1 AM. $75 per person which includes a live dance band, bottle of wine per couple, delicious food, etc. There will be a bonfire to stay warm! Call Antler Realty at 828-898-3111 for reservations and more information. www.antlerREALTY.net

Give the Gift of an Experience for Young People 4-H Camp Registration opens Trying to come up with a meaningful gift for a child or grandchild? Why not give the gift of an experience? Consider the gift of a week at camp, something that will create memories for a lifetime. Now is the time to begin enrolling for 4-H Camp for Summer 2009. Watauga County 4-H will escort a group of 8-14 year old campers to Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Center. The center is located above Greensboro in Rockingham County, near Reidsville. The camping week is June 28-July 3. To guarantee a spot, register by January 30. The good news is you can reserve your spot with a $100.00 deposit and have until June to save up for the rest of the fee, which is $360.00. The fee covers meals, lodging, t-shirt, transportation to camp and more. Registration will continue beyond January 29, but spaces will not be guaranteed. Contact the 4-H office at 264-3061 for more information or to register. Check the website out at http://www.nc4h.org/centers

The Free Sledding Hill on Beech Mountain is open from 9am till 5pm We have natural snow and are blowing snow. I t is open to children 12 years and under. Just plastic sleds no metal ones. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE HILL NEXT TO TOWN HALL Check back regarding the ski resort opening 1800-468-5506

L. E. Harrill Senior Center to Offer Arthritis Exercise/Health Education Program The Harrill Senior Center is offering a program developed specifically for people with arthritis. Low-impact, joint-safe exercises led by AF-certified instructors can be taken either sitting down or standing. This program has been proven in research studies to reduce arthritis pain and improve ability to do more daily activities. The program will be offered from 1:30-2:30pm each Monday and Wednesday (16 classes) during November and December. There is no charge to attend. We request you reserve a space so that adequate materials will be available. Any age may attend but persons aged sixty and older will be given priority if class size exceeds space available. Call 265-8090 with any questions or to reserve a space.

Caregiver Training Scheduled If you provide help to an older relative or friend then Powerful Tools for Caregivers is for YOU! Caregivers will learn to: reduce stress, improve self confidence, better communicate feelings, balance their life, increase their ability to make tough decisions, and locate helpful resources. Classes, sponsored by the Project on Aging and Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living, will be offered once a week for a total of four weeks. Class dates and times are: Thursdays, rfield Ridge Assisted Living. There is no charge to attend the classes which includes lunch and on site respite care if needed. Pre-registration is required by calling 265-8090.

DOWNTOWN BOONE ART CRAWL Art lovers of all ages are invited to visit our art gallerys, restaurants and boutiques the 1st Friday of each month. Art in all media and price ranges is available for sale.

Make a Difference, Green Your Business The Watauga Green Business Plan & a voluntary, market-driven program that educates, certifies, and recognizes businesses that have made a commitment to reduce their environmental impact and help build a sustainable community-- is now recruiting and certifying new program participants. For more information and learn how to certify your business visit: www.greenbusinessplan.com.

Fall Luncheons and Non-Credit classes at ASU Appalachian Pathways, a division of ASU Conferences and Institutes, offers diverse programs for the fall. If you would like to learn silk painting, or are interested in discovering how ancient and modern China are coming together in new ways, or want to hear the real deal for weather this winter, Appalachian Pathways is your source. You will find complete details and registration information for all programs at www.pathways.appstate.edu . If you need additional information, call Teri Reddick at (828) 262-2530.

HOSPICE BUTTERFLY ORNAMENTS FOR SALE High Country Hospice is selling butterfly ornaments made with seed paper to raise money for hospice patient care. The ornaments cost $2. To buy or for more information call 828-265-9443 or stop by the office at 136 Furman Road Suite 2.

Free and Low-Cost Counseling Laura Torres, Deborah Tallarico, RN, Michael Diettrich-Chastain and Matthew Cooper, NCC, are community counseling graduates and graduate students at ASU. We are offering FREE and low sliding scale ($10-$65) confidential and supportive counseling sessions at Blue Mountain Center working with some of life’s experiences including: relationship issues, loneliness, depression, pain, stress, anxiety, etc. Individuals, couples, children and families are welcome! Site Supervisor: Suzi Woodard, MA, LPC Blue Mountain Center, near New Market Shopping Center, in Boone 828 265-1455

8th Grade Class Fundraising Projects Bethel Elementary School’s 8th grade class is currently in the middle of numerous fundraising projects to raise money for the end of year class trip to Charleston, S.C. The fundraising projects include concessions, Bingos, and raffles. They are looking for businesses to donate gift cards, items to raffle, or even food items. Any would be welcomed and greatly appreciated. If you are interested in donating, please contact: Tabitha at 964-6555, or Connie at 297-6682.

North Carolina Poetry Society Contests Open The North Carolina Poetry Society announces the opening of its annual poetry contests for adults and students.Cash awards and certificates are offered for winning poems which will be published in Pinesong, the NCPS annual collection of award-winning poetry. Winners will be invited to read their winning poems on May 16, 2009 at the Awards Day ceremony at Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities in Southern Pines. Complete details about the contests are listed on the Poetry Society website, www.NCPoetrySociety.org .

Need $$ to help fix your dogs or cats? The Watauga Humane Society can reduce our already low cost to fix your dogs and cats, thanks to grants from the Town of Boone and Watauga County. If you are in financial need and think you can’t afford to have your dogs or cats fixed, call us. Fixed dogs and cats are healthier, better behaved, and live longer. They are less likely to fight, bite, or spray. Don’t you want these benefits for your pets? You must be a Watauga County resident to use grant money, but our low-cost program is open to everyone. Call Watauga Humane Society, 828/264-7865, Tuesday – Friday 12:30 – 6, Saturday and Sunday 12:30 – 5. www.WataugaHumaneSociety.org.

Watauga Humane Society Hosts SUNDAY Adoptions in Boone Each Sunday, from 12:30 – 4 p.m. at the front entrance of the Boone Mall (Old Navy), the Watauga Humane Society will have animals available for adoption from the Humane Society Animal Shelter. Learn more by calling the Watauga Humane Society at 264-7865. www.wataugahumanesociety.org. Ask about the Dog Park…open from sunrise to sunset, with day passes available for $3.

Donations Needed High Country Hospice needs donations for the Hospice Bazaar! Items can be dropped off at the Hospice office at 136 Furman Road, Suite 2, Mon-Fri 8-5. For pickup of items please call Janet Trivett at 828-265-3926. All proceeds will benefit High Country Health Care System Hospice.

Footsloggers is a collection site for Soles4Souls Soles4Souls is non-profit organization that distributes shoes around the world to the needy. Over 300 million children are without shoes. Over 1.5 billion pairs of shoes lay idle in American closets. Please bring your shoes to Footsloggers Boone/Blowing Rock and we will ship them at our expense to Soles4Souls.

Free Acupuncture Michael Goopta, M.S., L.Ac., a qualified and licensed acupuncturist in the State of North Carolina, is now offering free acupuncture treatments. Michael treats men, women, and children with a wide range of conditions. The treatments are performed on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. at the Community Care Clinic at 141 Health Center Drive, Boone. Call 828-719-1819 to make an appointment. Income and other restrictions as per rules of the Clinic apply.

Dog Adoption at Rescue Ranch Adopt a spayed or neutered and vaccinated dog from Rescue Ranch in Mountain City, TN just up Hwy 421, about 40 minutes from downtown Boone. Every dog deserves a good home. We are an all-breed, limited space facility so when you adopt from us, you save two dogs; the one you take home and the one you have just opened a space for! Be part of the solution and opt to adopt an altered pet! To adopt a dog, first visit our website at www.ranch.petfinder.com to learn all about us, see the available dogs then, contact us via email gbelfi@live.com or call 423-727-8900 to schedule an adoption appointment.

Watauga American Legion Post # 130 Collecting Aluminum Can Tabs The Watauga American Legion Post # 130, located at 135 Bear Trail (second road to left, top of hill, off Grand Boulevard), Boone; is collecting aluminum can tabs (from drink cans) to donate to the Ronald McDonald House. If you would like to help, please bring the can tabs, in a container, you or your group have collected to the American Legion building and leave the tabs at the door.Banner Elk Winery Banner Elk Winery open for Tours and Tastings Wednesday through Sunday, noon until 6 p.m. From the light in Banner Elk, go north (right) on Hwy. 194 1 1/2 miles, then take a left on Gualtney Road and travel 1/4 mile. 828.898.9090 or 828.260.1790 www.bannerelkwinery.com

Game Show Audience Welcome! Be part of the local television show SQRAMBLED SCUARES. Live tapings are each Tuesday night at 245 B Winkler’s Creek Rd. Near the Boone Mall. Admission and refreshments are free. Call 268-9898 or visit the website at: www.sqrambledscuares.biz for details.

Free Counseling Deborah Tallarico and Michael Diettrich-Chastain are community counseling graduate students at ASU. They are offering FREE confidential and supportive sessions at Blue Mountain Center working with life’s challenges including but not limited to: loneliness, depression, stress, relationship issues, anxiety, grief, and spirituality. Individuals, couples, children and families are welcome! Site Supervisor: Suzi Woodard, MA, LPC Blue Mountain Center, near New Market Shopping Center, in Boone 828 265-1455

The Legacy of a Lifetime Scholarship will support former student athletes (preference given to ASU graduates) who wish to enroll in one of ASU’s graduate counseling programs. Please consider giving generously to this worthwhile scholarship through one of the following ways. 1) Pledge $1,200/year for 3 years and ensure this scholarship is endowed by 2010. 2) Meet the challenge and commit $500 now for the 2009-2010 school year. 3) Make a donation of any size as a symbol of your support for these students. To obtain additional information or to make a pledge to this scholarship, contact Dolly Farrell, Director of Development for the RCOE at (828) 262-2804 or farrelldm@appstate.edu.

SUPPORT GROUPS/CLUBS

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

AL-ANON - Monday 12 Noon mtg at St Lukes Episcopal 828-964-8888, also at 8 pm at St. Mary’s of the Hills, Blowing Rock, Wed 7:30 pm, at 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. Thurs 5:30pm. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 964-8888. 7pm. Lutheran Episcopal Church Of The Savior, Newland, 194 across from Mountain Glenn Golf Course. 828-733-3838. Fri 12 Noon, St. Lukes Episcopal Church 964-8888. 8pm, Philadelphia Lutheran Church, Granite Falls. 828-757-9741.Sat. 8pm, First Presbyterian Church, Morganton. 828-433-7109.

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.

ARE YOU A real AARP MEMBER? Have you also joined the local AARP chapter? If you would like to meet a fun group of retired neighbors and senior resident who provide meaningful service to our community, who share useful, “age appropriate information”, who try to influence local politicians and enjoy lunch at a good local restaurant every friday, come to our monthly meetings every third tuesday at the Harrell Senior Center at 10:15 AM on the second floor. For your $6 annual fee you can cheer people at local nursing homes, help clear parkway trails, get others to assist you with your favorite projects, hear and question “experts” on issues of special interest to seniors and share lunch conversation with a group of good folks who remember and care about many of the same things that are or were important to you. For more information call 264-4576.

ASHE CO. FRIENDS MEETING (QUAKER) will meet at the home of Julia Rogers on Sundays at 2pm. For directions or more information, call Julia at 336-385-6531.

Backyard Croquet League Do you enjoy playing croquet day and night? Then you should become a member of the Watauga County Backyard Croquet League! We are now looking for teams composed of family, club, or office members, friends, or anyone else that is up for a game on the uneven turf of the High Country. Anyone interested please call Candice Cook at 828-719-8538 or email CandiceLCookie@aol.com

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.

Blowing Rock Sci-Fi/Fantasy group meets the first Tuesday evening of every month. For more information, see http://scifi.meetup.com/241/

Boone Police Explorers - Boone Police Explorers meet every Monday night (locations vary) between 6:30 PM and 8 PM. Open to all young men and women between the ages of 14 and 20 years old that have an interest in a career in law enforcement. Explorers learn and train from officers from all county-wide agencies. Must have high morals and be enrolled in ninth grade or higher education. Exploring is a year round program and one may join at any time. For more information or meeting locations contact Detective Glen Kornhauser of the Boone Police Department at (828) 262-4515 or glen.kornhauser@townofboone.net.

BOONE LIONS CLUB meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month at 6:30pm at the Sagebrush Restaurant. For further information about the Lions call President Nena Alsaker at 963-6841.

BOONE SHAG CLUB DANCES The Boone Shag Club dances are held every Tuesday evening from 8-10pm at the Meadowbrook Inn in Blowing Rock. Visitors welcome.

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.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY – “a safe place to share my fears”, “a confidential place where I am accepted for who I am”; and “an uplifting place to finally face my hurt and addiction”. Every Friday night from 7-9 p.m. (dinner at 6), Alliance, 1035 NC 105 Bypass, lower entrance. For more information: CelebrateRecveryBoone.org; or Jeff at 828-964-0457. Childcare. Confidentiality assured.

CHANGE YOUR LIFE PATTERNS If you find that traditional therapies aren’t “enough.” If you feel caught in old habitual patterns that don’t work for you. If you feel stuck. If fears keep you from your success and joy. If life too often seems overwhelming. Perhaps it’s time to repattern your old, negative beliefs and release subconscious constrictions that hold you back. Discover your “story” and recreate it so that it supports you. Your inner knowing has your answers. EnergyWorks can facilitate a six step process for you that can lead you to your own awareness and healing. Enabling you to access unconscious beliefs, thought patterns, and buried traumas, the repatterning process gently leads you through the evolution of your problem focusing on how it came to be, going right to the root. The healing occurs on all levels--mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual. For sessions call 828-264-9750.

Christian Motorcyclists Assoc. Peacemakers of the Boone NC Chapter would like to invite you to come join us for Fellowship and Breakfast on the First Saturday of every month at 8:00 a.m. 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 10:00 a.m.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.

THE CHILDREN’S PLAYHOUSE: Baby Lap Time 9:15-10:00 Tuesdays at The Children’s Playhouse, 400 Tracy Circle, Boone. Call 263-0011 for more information or see website, www.goPlayhouse.org. Baby Lap Time is a perfect time to meet other moms and babies. Baby Lap Time is free to members. In addition, new mothers can bring their infant free of charge up until the baby is 8 months old! Toddler Time 9:15-10:00 Thursdays at The Children’s Playhouse, 400 Tracy Circle, Boone. Call 263-0011 for more information or see website, www.goPlayhouse.org. Toddler Time is a special play time for walking babies up to 24 months. Free to members or with paid admission. Terrific Twos & Threes 10:00 Wednesdays A special playtime for preschoolers, Terrific Twos and Threes meets every Wednesday morning at The Children’s Playhouse, 400 Tracy Circle, Boone. Call 263-0011 for more information or see website, www.goPlayhouse.org.

Civil Air Patrol Integrity, volunteer service, excellence, respect. There are the core values of the Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Youth, ages 12-18 can join our cadet program and adults are needed as senior members. Squadrom meetings are every Thursday at 6 p.m. in the First Baptist Church on King Street in Boone. For more information, contact Lt. Joanne Brown, 336-385-2178.

Celebrate Recovery Celebrate Recovery is a 12-Step recovery program dealing with hurts, addictive habits and hang-ups such as alcohol, drug, anger, codependency, food and sexual issues. Meets every Friday night at 7 PM at Alliance 1035 NC Highway 105 Bypass. Info Dave @ (828)265-1890 or www.CelebrateRecoveryBoone.com.

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.

ESL CLass FOR free (English as a second language) at First Presbyterian Church of Boone 663 Howard St. each Thurs. 6:30-8pm. For more information call Harless at 336-877-8774 or First Presbyterian Church at 828-264-3906.

Clases de ingles en la Primera Iglesia Presbiteriana de Boone. 663 Howard Street Todos los Jueves de 6:30 a 8:00 p.m. Los clases son gratuitas. Para mas informacion llame a Harless al 336-877-8774 o a la iglesia al 828-264-3906.

The High Country Disc Golf Club, Our mission is to foster, promote, and improve the sport and community of disc golf in the High Country! 08’ memberships are FREE! Local course at Ashe County Park, in Jefferson, NC. Weekly doubles every Thursday at 5:15 pm and Sundays at 1:00 pm. ($4 entry, $1 ace pool entry, cash payout). We are constantly looking for more players, members, volunteers, supporters, sponsors, future potential properties, and/or donations to help accomplish all of our goals! For more info. please visit the course kiosk at the park, or goto www.highcountrydiscgolf.com, or you can contact Todd Patoprsty at (336) 649-0888, mountaintodd@gmail.com

Gator Fan Club for Gator football fans in the High Country...we will meet to watch all Gator football games at Nick’s Restaurant on 184 and 105 in Banner Elk, behind the Rite Aid, for more info call Craig 407 580 5112.

GRIEFSHARE is a weekly seminar and support group that meets at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Boone each Sunday at 5:00 p.m. Child care is available. The church is located at 3505 Bamboo Road. Sessions include: AWhen Your Dreams Fall Apart, Seasons of Grief, Emotions of Grief, and Where is God?@ For more information, call the church office at 266-9700.

GRIEF COUNSELING SERVICES High Country Health Care System Hospice offers free counseling and support to those who are grieving. To schedule an appointment or learn more contact Jennifer Johnson at 828-265-3926.

CMA-Cristian 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.

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 Church. Sunday: 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)

high country diabetes Support group meeting 1ST Thursday of each month. Watauga County Health Dept. 12-1pm Contact: Laurie Cimino, 264-4995.

High Country MOPS High Country MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) is a support group for mothers of children birth through kindergarten. We offer support, fellowship and encouragement in a loving environment as well as a quailty children’s program. We meet from September through May on the first and third Thursdays at Mount Vernon Baptist Church. Meetings are from 9:30 - 12:00. For more information call Julie at 963-6687.

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 the evening which ends at 8pm. For more information call (828-266-9700) or (828-264-5358).Mt Vernon Church web page http:/www.mtvernonchurch.org.

HIGH COUNTRY WOMEN IN BLACK VIGIL Each Friday, from1-2 pm, High Country Women in Black stand on the steps of the Jones House in downtown Boone in silent vigil. For more information, contact Marg McKinney (264-4310 or mckinnymj@yahoo.com) or the Women in Black website (www.womeninblack.org).

High Country Disc Golf Club, Our Mission is to PLAY and ENJOY, have FUN, support, help promote and nurture the wonderful sport of DISC GOLF in our community. Very small and worthy joiners fee. Local course at Ashe Co. Park, Jefferson, NC. Weekly doubles every Sunday @ 1 pm. ** 2nd. Annual HIGH COUNTRY CHARITY ICE BOWL and POLAR PLUNGE, Sat., Feb. 16th, 2008! Benefiting the Ashe Co. Humane Society! For more info. please visit the course kiosk, www.highcountrydiscgolf.com, or call Todd Patoprsty @ 336-649-0888.

GETTING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP High Country Health Care System Hospice is offering a free grief support based around getting through the holiday season after losing a loved one. The group will start the 2nd week in November and will be held Wednesdays at 12 pm at the Hospice office. For more information call Jennifer Johnson at 828-265-3926

“HopeWork” Sexual Assault/Abuse Group Are you a female survivor of sexual abuse or assault? Have you thought about attending a support group to help deal with some of the effects of your trauma? If so, OASIS, Inc. (Opposing Abuse with Service, Information and Shelter) may have a group just for you. Angela Greene, BSW with OASIS, Inc. and Carlene Cox, LCSW of Blue Haven Counseling Services are teaming up to provide a FREE 8-week support group for female survivors set to start in September. To learn more, please call 264-1532 or email Angela at clientservice@oasisinc.org.

‘Improv Gods’ looking for members Would you like the opportunity to learn to perform improvisational theatre? If you are the class clown, the jokester around the water cooler, the consummate performer, or thespian looking for a new skill, we have the group for you. Meetings will be held Tuesday evenings from 7pm-9pm. Experienced and inexperienced performers are welcome. No matter if you are looking to hone your creative and presentation skills, learn some basic theatrical and improvisational techniques, or just want to have a good time once a week, come out and join us. For more info, please contact Mark @ 828-773-0068 or markbodo@yahoo.com.

JUVENILE DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP open to anyone with type 1 diabetes and thier families every 3rd Thursday of the month at Grace Lutheran Church, King St. Boone. The purpose of this group is to provide support, education, resources, and encouragement to those living with this life-altering, serious disease.Come share and learn with us. For more information, please contact Kathy Anderson 828-265-2438.

LA LECHE LEAGUE 10:30 am-noon, 3rd Wednesday each month. Grace Lutheran Church. 262-5316.

A New For Moms New moms or older moms, all are welcome! Facilitated by Rev. Judy Eurey using the resource, Beginnings: The Spiritual Life. The focus will be the Spiritual Journey and Motherhood, with an emphasis on providing a support group and place for sharing of experiences and ideas for mothers. If you are a mother, please join us! The group will meet on Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. at Henson Chapel United Methodist Church, on Old U.S. Hwy. 421 in Vilas. For more information, call Rev. Judy Eurey at 297-6233 or email: Jeurey@charter.net.

Mindfulness Meditation Group Mindfulness is the practice of attending one’s experience in the present moment, with acceptance and non-judgment. Blue Mountain Center for the Healing Arts is offering a free weekly mindfulness meditation group involving brief guided and silent meditation exercises designed to help cultivate mindfulness. The group meets Friday mornings from 6:45-7:30 at Blue Mountain Center located near New Market Center (368 Clint Norris Rd.). Please call Suzi Woodward for further information or more detailed directions: 828-265-1455. All levels are welcome!

MOMS IN TOUCH INTERNATIONAL is a non-denominational Christian ministry that encourages mothers to meet off-campus for one hour a week to pray for their children and the schools that they attend. To learn more about the Watauga County Moms In Touch groups, please contact the following group leaders. Blowing Rock, Beth Jesel 295-6525; Cove Creek, Jo Snyder 297-1108; Green Valley, Janet Belden 262-3848; Hardin Park, Dana Brackney 265-2604; Mabel, Julie Page 297-7794; Mountain Pathways, Dee Edwards 964-2260; Parkway, Ann Brown 262-3273; Two Rivers, Amy Williams 297-6175; Valle Crucis, Sharon Carlton 297-3133; Watauga High, Christine Gonzales 278-0444 or Beth Littlejohn 295-0427.

MOM’S MORNING OUT AT ALL THINGS POSSIBLE CHURCH M-W-F 8:30-12:00 for ages 1-3 years. Daily drop in rates and monthly rates available. Call 265-2000 for more information.

Mountain Mixers for Western Square Dancing. All dances are held at the Recreation Hall, Land HarborParkway off 181/221 in Linville, NC. There will b e round dancing between tips on Friday night and Sunday afternoon. Sunday dances feature national and international callers. See www.mountainmixers.com for complete schedule, directions, and contact information.

NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL (NSAI) BOONE, NC WORKSHOP NSAI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping songwriters hone their craft for the commercial market and lobby for legislation for songwriters’ rights. If you would like to join or just check us out call Greg Taylor at 336-877-3533 or send an email through our website: www.nsaiboone.infinitelimits.net. We meet at 7 pm on the First Tuesday of each month at the Boone United Methodist Church on New Market Blvd in room 131.

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.

New Life Fellowship Seventh-day Adventist Church New Life Fellowship Seventh-day Adventist Church invites you to worship with us each Saturday. Sabbath School starts at 9:30 a.m. and our Worship Service starts at 11:00 a.m. We’re located at 1197 Old Hwy. 421 S. Turn at Mack Brown onto old Hwy. 421 S. go one mile and we’re on your left. For more information call Brittainy Brown, 503-310-6620.

“Newly and Nearly Married” Small Group A “Newly and Nearly Married” Small Group will soon be offered by FaithBridge United Methodist Church, open to all in our community as an opportunity for fellowship and growth for engaged and newly married couples. The group will use a video-based curriculum entitled “Making Marriage Work” by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott. Marianne Romanat, pastor of FaithBridge, will facilitate discussion. Meetings will take place for 12 weeks on Wednesday evenings, beginning March 5th, from 6:30-8:00pm. Dessert will be provided. The first meeting (on Wednesday, March 5th, 6:30-8:00pm) will take place at the home of Kyle and Marianne Romanat. For more information or to register, please call the church office at 295-8333 or email marianne@faithbridgeumc.org . Directions to the Romanat home may also be requested using the same contact information.

Numina is a non-profit organization serving the needs of women. Our signature program is Creative Mentoring, a quarterly series of four residencies at a mountain retreat center. For more information: www.numinaprogram.org or (828) 264-6255

Overeaters Anonymous Meetings are held every Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 170 Council Street, Boone. Overeaters, anorexics, bulemics and all others welcome for this 12-step recovery program. For more information: call Renee 828-260-2437.

PACT in the High Country PACT in the High Country is our local chapter of the NC Wildlife Federation. We meet every third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Watauga County Public Library on Queen St. Our next meeting is November 17th at 7:00 pm. We will discuss wildlife conservation priorities and let the community know how to get involved!! Contact pacthc@gmail.com with any questions or comments.

Parent to Parent Family Support Network of the High Country is available to provide information and support to families who have children with special needs, chronic illnesses or who have had the death of their child. We are families willing to share the expertise of our own experiences. We can help you get the information you need to help your child. All services are free and confidential. For information call Kaaren Hayes (828) 262-6089.

PFLAG (Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbians and Gays) meets the second Thursday of each month at 6pm at 742 King Street. PFLAG provides support and education to parents, families, and friends of lesbians, gay males, bisexuals, and transgendered people (LGBT) as well as advocates for increased understanding and affirmation. For more information, please contact Terry at 264-4109 or Kathy at staleykl1971@yahoo.com.

PEOPLE FOR PEACE Join People For Peace for the reading of the names of North Carolina soldiers killed in Iraq. The Jones House Steps every Saturday from 2-3pm.

Project Green Community A community service project for children in grade groups 3-5 and 6-8 focusing on environmental issues in Watauga County. For more information, please contact Natalie Lewis natalie@gotgreengoods.com. www.gotgreengoods.com

SIBLING CLASS Call for appointment. 262-4285.

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.

SNOW LODGE 363 A.F. AND A.M. meets the First and Third Monday night of each month. Meal starts at 6:30pm and the meeting starts at 7:30pm. All members of the fraternity are welcome to attend. Located off Highway 105, turn on High School Drive, then turn left on Temple Drive and follow the road; lodge is at the end of the road.

Support Group Focusing on supporting the caregivers of the frail elderly. Date: The first Thursday of each month. Time:1:00 pm Place: Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living. 287 Bamboo Road Boone, NC Focus: To give emotional support, share resource information and educate. Respite care is available at no charge. Please call Sharon Welborn 264-0336 for more information.

Surgical Weight Loss Support Group - 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.

The Downtown Boone Development Association wants to invite residents and visitors of the High Country to participate in the Downtown Boone Art Crawl that takes place the first Friday of every month. Art lovers of all ages are invited to visit our art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques the 1st Friday of each month. Art in all media and price ranges is available for sale.

Toastmasters Club What is Toastmasters? Toastmasters is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals Speak, Listen and Think more clearly. Through participation in the Toastmaster Communication and leadership program, people from all backgrounds learn to effectively speak, conduct a meeting, manage a department or business, lead, delegate and motivate. We meet every Tuesday at 6:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church. You are invited to attend and discover how to speak up with confidence. Contact Maki Ben-Avari at 828-414-4509 for more information. toastmasters-nc.org

WATAUGA CO. CHAPTER, NC COUNCIL FOR THE BLIND holds monthly meetings at Grace Lutheran Church, East King Street beginning at 10 am, the second Friday of each month. The public and volunteers are welcome; refreshments are served. For more information, call Caroline Ward at: 297-5346.

Watauga Co. Project on Aging Old Cove Creek School gym on Adams Road in Sugar Grove, NC (828-297-5195) is hosting the Body Recall Exercise Program. The program is great for Seniors with gentle stretching and non- aerobic strength training, which enhanses flexibility, mobility and balance. The program is ongoing free Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact Toni Wait 297-5195 to sign up M-F 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers Needed!

Watauga Co. Parent Support Group Many families need support from time to time. The Watauga County Parent Support Group was formed to meet this service gap. Group is held on the first and third Tuesday of each month in the upstairs group therapy room of the Watauga County Social Services building from 6-8pm. Child care is provided at no cost.For more information or to join at no cost, contact Ray Powers at the Watauga County Department of Social Services, (828)264-8759.

WATAUGA WELLNESS CANCER PROGRAM A fitness program for patients actively receiving cancer treatment or those who have gone through treatment in the past year, as well as spouses/caregivers. Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 -1:00 pm at the Wellness Center. Call Beth Ann Syers at (828) 266-1060 for more information.

Watauga County D. A. V. Chapter # 90 would like to announce The Veterans Service Office will be opened each Tuesday and Thursday from 1- 4 P. M. The Veterans Service Office will be manned by Mike Trivette, Dewey Pruitt and Bob Shoemake. The Veterans Service Office is located at the Watauga American Legion Post # 130 and the Watauga County D. A. V. Chapter # 90 Building, at 135 Bear Trail, Boone NC. The Veterans Service is opened for any and All Veterans. Pleasae call: (828) 262-1060 Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you need to leave a message, there is an answering machine. Thank you!

Watauga Paddle Club meets at the Subaru dealership in Boone every third Tuesday of every month, time 7pm. This club is for any one who paddles a canoe, kayak, or raft. For more info contact Brad Collins by email wataugapc@skybest.com or 264-0675.

Watauga Leisure Biking Club Cyclists of all skill levels are invited to join us on these bike rides. Go to www.wataugaleisurebiking.com for specific club details.

WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC (FREE) A sensible system proven more effective then Weightwatchers, Adkins, Ornish and the Zone. Free classes will be held at Boone First Baptist Church [King. St. - next to Turchin Gallery] Every Wed.from 7- 8:30 pm - starting March 28th. No need to preregister. Questions? Call Bonnie Church, Certified Nutritional Consultant 963-6023.

WEIGHT WATCHERS meets at Greenway Business Park (formerly the Brendle’s building). Mondays - 4:00pm weigh in/4:30pm meeting or 5:30pm weigh in/6:00pm meeting; Tuesday - 5:00pm weigh in/5:30pm meeting; Thursdays- 5:00pm weigh in/5:30pm meeting; Saturdays - 8:00am weigh in/8:30am Meeting; 9:30am weigh in/10:00am meeting. Call 1-800-651-6000 for more info.

Women’s Depression Treatment Group Women’s Depression Treatment Group to: * Help you identify factors (for example, conflictual interactions, problematic reactions and beliefs about yourself, unresolved grief, lack of sufficient exercise, poor nutrition or other problematic issues regarding eating, etc.) that contribute to your depression; *Help you develop concrete plans for addressing these factors, in order to improve your mood; * Provide you with support from the therapist and your peers as you implement your plans and adjust it over time, including identifying factors that may impede success of your plans. We meet weekly. Please contact Mary McKinney at McKinney & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy, Inc. for questions or to register for this group at 268-0155 or mckmary@bellsouth.net. Group sessions may compliment other therapy (e.g., individual, couple or family) for you or be sufficient to treat your depression. Call to discuss. Cost is $60 per session.

WOMEN OUTDOORS is a local group of women who enjoy outdoor activities. Become part of our growing network of women who through the outdoors are building bridges between members of diverse outdoor skills, ages, lifestyles and cultures. If you are a woman who enjoys walking, hiking, canoe trips, kayaking, biking or other outdoor activities, we encourage you to join us for our monthly potluck meeting. Different members host a potluck in their homes each month to get together and plan activities. No membership is ever charged, and we have women with a variety of skill levels; you do not need to be a jock to participate and have fun. For more information, please contact Lynne at 336-877-3013 http://www.women-outdoors.org

Women’s Room Join in on the new women’s session which will meet at Westglow Resort & Spa. Facilitated by Marla Gentile M.Ed, Licensed Professional Counselor, this group will provide an arena for women of all ages to come together and share their journey towards growth and human potential. Sessions held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 6:30pm - 8:00pm. First meeting will be on Tuesday February 12, 2008. $30 per session. Advance registration is mandatory as there is limited availability so call us at (828) 295-4463, or (800) 562-0807 to reserve your place.

Youth Programs Dept of Habitat for Humanity The Youth Programs department of Habitat for Humanity was founded with the mission to capture the imagination, energy and hope of young people worldwide. Watauga County Habitat for Humanity is beginning a Youth United Program. YU is an opportunity for youth, ages 5 - 25, to finance and build a house on their own. Habitat putting together a Youth United committee consisting of both adult and youth to assist in overseeing community involvement. The first meeting was on Monday, June 16th at 5:30. For more information, call 828-268-9545.

WORSHIP

ANGLICAN FELLOWSHIP ~ CHRIST THE KING ~ 315 State Farm Rd. Boone. Sunday schedule: 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month ~ Holy Eucharist 10:00 a.m. Other Sundays: Morning Prayer, 10:00 a.m. Officiating: The Rev. Dr. Ross Blackburn, pastor. Bible study Wed at 7:30 p.m. For more information call 828.297.5703 or visit our web site www.ctkaf.org

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.

BAHA’I WORSHIP SERVICE There will be a Baha’i worship service in Boone every Sunday at 10am. A study group follows the devotions for those who wish to stay. All are welcome. For more information and directions, call 264-2297.

banner elk presbyterian church located across from the Book Store on Lees McRae College campus. Worship at 8:30am & 11am June through September, 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 9:30 a.m., Sunday School at 10 a.m., fellowship and refreshments at 10:30 a.m., and a Traditional Worship Service at 11 a.m. Covered dish lunch each 4th Sunday following the Traditional Worship Serivice.

Bethelview United Methodist Church. Sunday School for all ages at 10 a.m. Worship Service at 11 a.m. Located at 193 Ridge Road, just off of Castle Ford Road in Boone. 828-263-0433.

BLOWING ROCK METHODIST CHURCH Located on South Main St. downtown. Hymn Sing: 10:30am-11am with Jean Moberg Traditional Worship Service 11am. Music under the direction of Shirley Blackwell. Special Music by ASU students and faculty. Organist Holly Lacy. Minister: Dr. Hal Warlick. Join us each Sunday June through Sept.

Blue Ridge Community Christian Church 5.5 miles on 221 South of Blowing Rock. Sunday School starts at 10 a.m. and Sunday morning service starts at 11 a.m. There is a Sunday evening service at 6 p.m. and a Thursday night Bible Study at 7 p.m.

Boone Church of God - 421 & 105 Bypass, intesection on left. Sunday School: 10 am, Services: 11am, 5 pm. Wednesday Night Service: 7:00pm. Pastor Michael Maddox

Boone FIRST CHURCH OF THE NAZARENe Sunday School 9:30 Service - 10:45 am. Bible study wednesday at 7 pm 460 Old Hwy. 421S, Boone. 263-0188.

BOONE FRIENDS MEETING (QUAKERS) 5:30pm, Worship Sharing/Prayer Service at 222 Howard Street. Please call 263-0001.

Boone Jewish Community holds services every Friday night at 7pm. We meet at St. Luke’s Church, 170 Council St. St. Luke’s is just off King Street, back of the Earth Fare grocery store. For further information, call 264-8364 or 264-5738 or check our website, boonejewishcommunity.org.

BOONE Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 381 E. King St, Boone, NC 28607 828-264-4456 for more information Sundays: 9:30-10:30 - Adult religious education 10:30-11 Coffee Hour 11:00-12:00 - Sunday Service and children’s religious education All are welcome to attend.

BOONE UNITED METHODIST Sunday-8:45 am: Worship service (blended, informal); 9:55 am: Church school for all ages; 11 am: Worship service (traditional). 471 New Market Blvd. 828-264-6091

BROOKSIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Pastor Larry Young, Sunday-11am service,1122 Old 421South Boone NC , two miles east of Boone off 421 turn at Nissan, call 262-5020.

Brushy Fork baptist Church 3915 US Hwy 421 N , Vilas NC 297-2524 Sunday Morning - Sunday School 9:45am Worship- 10:45am. Sunday Evening Worship- 6pm Wednesday evening Prayer Meeting 7pm.

Centering Prayer Group A Centering Prayer Group (Christian Meditation) meets at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church every Monday at 6:30 pm. Come and join. For more information call Paul Supina 265-5335 or psupina@earthlink.net

CENTRAL ASSEMBLY OF GOD 385 Assembly Drive We invite you to the (upper room) prayer meeting. Every Thurs. night 7-8pm. Sunday services-Sunday school 10am- morning worship 11am. Wednesday- Preaching 7pm. We are located directly behind Boone Mall off Winkler’s Creek Rd. Pastor Jim Bedsaul 828-265-1060.

Christ’s Church United of Boone is an ecumenical community of believers who accepts ALL people who are striving toward wholeness and health on a spiritual journey. Services are held at 381 King St on Sunday nights at 7PM. Persons with questions may call Rev. Cindy Long at 828-263-0057

CHURCH OF THE HOLY CROSS Valle Crucis. Sunday Schedule: 8:30am, Holy Eucharist; 9:45am Sunday School; 11am Holy Eucharist. WED- 7am, Daughters of the King; 8am, Holy Eucharist and Healing; 7pm, Choir Practice. 828-963-4609.

Deerfield United Methodist Church Location:1184 Deerfield Road, Boone NC 28607 Phone 828-264-7130 Pastor Rev. Jeff Sweeney, Associate Pastor Time 9:30 am Breakfast Fellowship 10 am Sunday School 11 am Morning Worship 5 pm. Youth Meeting & Disciple II 7 pm Disciple I Bible Study

EASTERN ORTHODOX CHURCH – SAINTS PETER AND PAUL ORTHODOX CHURCH – 375 Highway 105 Extension, Suite #6, Boone [just north of the intersection of Highway 105 Extension and State Farm Road]; Divine Liturgy each Sunday at 10:00 am. Pastor: Fr. Daniel Thomas. Visit www.antiochian.org/peterandpaul for further information.

FAITHBRIDGE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - worships in the Blowing Rock School Auditorium on Sundays at 11am. Dress is casual and childcare is provided. For more information, please contact us at 295-8333 or visit our website at www.faithbridgeumc.org. Struggles with Having Faith? FaithBridge United Methodist Church is offering a September sermon series entitled “When God Hides”. This series is designed with people in mind who struggle with doubt, questions like “Why me?” and “Why anyone?”, difficulties recognizing hope, difficulties with temptation, etc. It is intended to recognize and respond to some of the common faith questions every human being encounters. For more information, call 828-295-8333 or visit our website: www.faithbridgeumc.org

FAITH MISSIONARY CHURCH 507 State Farm Road. Pastor Sonny Younce. Boone, NC 828-265-4619

FIRST BAPIST CHURCH 375 West King Street Boone, NC 8:45 am - Traditional 10:00 am - Sunday School 11:15 am - Contemporary

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (U.S.A) - First Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), 663 Howard Street, Boone, N.C., offers experiences for all ages. Our Sunday schedule starts with a full hot breakfast at the Fellowship Café (8:15-10:30 a.m.) located in our Fellowship Hall. We offer two worship services; the casual Praise & Worship Service (8:45 a.m.) features guitar music with a praise theme and the Traditional Worship Service (11:00 a.m.). Sunday School begins at 9:45 a.m., offering 4 children’s classes and 2 classes for teens. Adults have a choice of eight classes with opportunities ranging from Bible study to social concerns. A nursery for children ages 2 and under is offered during all Sunday morning activities. Visit us at our website: http://www.firstpresboone.org or call us at 828-264-3906 for more information. New friends welcome. See you Sunday!

FRIENDSHIP UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Location: 1592 Friendship Church Road, Boone. Worship: 9:00am Sunday School: 10:00am Pastors: Rev. Edwin McKinney and Rev. Cindy Shelton Phone: 264-6223.

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 11:00AM service, 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

GREENWAY BAPTIST CHURCH 880 Greenway Rd., Boone. Sunday School- 9:30am. Worship services- 10:45am and 6:30pm.

THE HEART - A casual and contemporary church designed to be relevant to our culture meets each Sunday at 10:30 AM at Watauga High School. For more information, call 264-3415, or visit us on the web: www.theheart.us.

Henson Chapel United Methodist Church Location: 120 Henson Hollar Rd. Vilas, NC 28655 On the Web: www.hensonchapel.org Sunday School: 10AM Worship: 11AM (Informal) Contact: Rev. Judy Eurey 828-297-6233

HIGH COUNTRY ECKANKAR CENTER - The new Eckankar Center is located beside the Foscoe Volunteer Fire Department at 9218-1A, Suite 3, Highway 105 South in Foscoe. Enter the second exterior glass door, continue up the staircase and turn left. We welcome spiritual seekers to attend our worship service from 10:30 to 11:30 AM on the 4th Sunday of each month, followed by fellowship and refreshments. The purpose of Eckankar is to make God an everyday reality in your life. As Soul, you have the God-knowledge within you. The teachings of Eck will awaken the knowledge and love for the divine things that are already in your heart. The road to God is the adventure of a lifetime. To find out more, visit our website at: http://www.eckankar.org. Our local email is: highcountryeckankarcenter@charter.net, and our local phone is 828-265-6316. We look forward to meeting you.

High Country United Church of ChrisT 8233 Hwy 421-N, Vilas, NC, 28692. Sunday Services: Discussion groups 10:00am Worship Services: 11:00am. 297-1092

HOLY COMMUNION LUTHERAN CHURCH (Est. 1884) 1525 Clark’s Creek Road (Foscoe Community) Sunday School - 10 am; Worship Service - 11 am; Youth Program. Pastor Larry Campbell- 963-4673 (Church Office)

HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Would you like to worship with a group of Bible believing Christians each week? Dress is casual and everyone is welcome. Our schedule is: Weekly worship on Saturday at 10:30am, Covered dish meal the 3rd Saturday of each month after services, Coffee and refreshments available before and after each service. We welcome YOU to visit with us. 315 State Farm Road, Boone, (828) 295-3942.

HOPEWELL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Location: 396 Hopewell Church Road, Boone Sunday School: 10:00am. Worship: 11:00am Pastors: Rev. Edwin McKinney and Rev. Cindy Shelton Phone: 265-5618

Join Hopewell United Methodist Church for 40 Days of Love! Jesus said the entire Bible can be summed up in two commands: Love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39). This Christmas season, from November 16th until December 25th, please join us as we learn to love as God intended us to love. Sunday School is at 10:00 AM and Sunday Worship is at 11:00 AM. Questions? Contact Rev. Cindy K. Shelton at (828) 265-5618.

Kingsway High Country Church Non-denominational Pastor: Ron Ross 828 295 3174 Contemporary Praise and Worship Music Time: Sundays @10:00 Location: Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff website: www.kingswayconnection.org/

liberty united methodist church Hwy 194 South, Banner Elk, NC. Sunday Worship Service 8:30am Pastor:Dan Brubaker 260-4792. Visitors are welcome!

Living Water Christian Fellowship Contemporary praise and worship. Service time: Sunday @ 10:30am Located next to Bowling Center and across from Wellness Center, 247 Boone Heights Drive, Boone. College “New Life” meeting: Wed. 8:30 at Legends. Call 264-4070 for more info.

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

Mabel United Methodist Church 5932 Old US Hwy 421 Zionville, NC 28698 On the Web: www.mabelumc.org Worship: 9:30 AM (Informal Dress) Sunday School 10:45AM Contact: Rev. Judy Eurey, 828-297-6233

mountianside lutheran church Camp Linn Haven, LCMS - Sunday Service will be held at Camp Linn Haven at 9:30 am, Route 221, Linville, NC 10am. Everyone Welcome. For further information call Pastor Dennis Quackenboss 733-4404.

Mount Vernon Baptist Church Mount Vernon Baptist Church is located at 3505 Bamboo Road in Boone.Sunday Service Times : Worship 9 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 9 & 10:30 a.m. Wednesday: House of Prayer 6:30 p.m.. You may also reach us in the office Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., at 828-266-9700.Our prayer line is 828-264-PRAY (24-7: day or night) or on the web at www.mtvernonchurch.org

MT. PADDY CHURCH Sundays: Sunday School at 9:30am, Worship at 10:30am, Preaching Service at 6pm. Wednesdays: Bible Study at 7pm in the sanctuary. We have a nursery (0-3) and children churches (4-8) & (9-12) available. Phone 336-846-3174.

Mt. Paran Baptist Church- Located on Wildcat Rd in Deep Gap, NC invites you to worship with us. Sunday Services: Sunday School 10am, Worship Service 11am. Wednesday Service 7:30pm—Pastor Rick Cornejo

NEWLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH offers Sunday school at 9:45. Worship begins at 11am. Public is invited.

New Life Fellowship Seventh-day Adventist Church New Life Fellowship Seventh-day Adventist Church invites you to worship with us this Saturday. Lesson study begins at 9:30 a.m., and worship service starts at 11 a.m. We’re located at 1197 Old Hwy. 421 S. Turn left at Mack Brown onto Old Hwy. 421, go one mile, and we’re on the left. Pastor is Charles Hindman. 828-898-5536.

Perkinsville Baptist Church 274 Jefferson Road Boone, NC 28607 (828)264-8605 Sunday School at 9:30 am Sunday Morning Worship Service at 10:45 am Sunday Evening Worship at 6:00 pm Wednesday Evening Prayer Meeting at 7:00 pm We would love to have you come and join us!

PLEASANT VALLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Location: 3704 Meat Camp Road, Boone. Sunday School: 9:45am Worship: 10:30am Pastors: Rev. Edwin McKinney and Rev. Cindy Shelton Phone: 264-6223

Westminster PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 132 Council St., Boone, NC. Worship hour at 11am, Sunday School 9:45. 828-264-5288

Rutherwood Baptist Church 142 Don Hayes Rd, Boone. Worship services Sunday 8:30 am and 11:00 am Sunday School 9:45. Kids own Worship 5:00 pm Worship Service 6:00 pm..Wednesday night FW Friends (kids ages 2 thru 12) 6:30 pm Adult Bible Study 7:00 pm Office: 828-264-5319

Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church South Main Street, Blowing Rock We welcome you to worship with us 8:45 and 11am, May through December (11am, January through April), and Sunday School for all ages and interests at 9:45 Please call for more information, 295-7675

SANDY FLAT BAPTIST Church 1776 Hwy 221 S., Blowing Rock, NC. Sunday school at 9:50 and Worship at 11:00. Pastor - Max West. Phone: 828-264-2427.

Seby B. Jones Cancer Center Free Educational Programs Upcoming Activities for Cancer Patients & Caregivers MONDAYS: PINK RIBBON PROGRAM at the WELLNESS CENTER (Every Monday) 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. This is a Pilates based exercise class for breast cancer survivors. Contact Kathie Billing 828-262-0098. COPING WITH BREAST CANCER (Topics change monthly.) September 8, 2008 - Intimacy and relationships (2nd Monday each month) Meets 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the Cancer Resource Center. Contact social worker at 828-262-4332, ext. 27. LOOK GOOD/FEEL BETTER - Led by certified cosmetologists September 15, 2008 (3rd Monday each month) Free wigs, make up and skin care products. This is a fun and educational class. Meets at the Cancer Resource Center from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. To pre register call 828-262-4332, ext. 27. TUESDAYS: LIVING WITH CANCER (Topics change monthly.) (1st Tuesday each month) September 2, 2008 Informativeclasses on complementary medicine to coincide with treatments. Held at Western Watauga Community Center. All ages welcome! Meets 10 to 11:30am. For more information, call 262-4332 ext. 27. WEDNESDAYS: PINK RIBBON PROGRAM at the WELLNESS CENTER. Wednesday 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Optional walking before the class starts at 5:15 PM to 5:45 PM. Contact Kathie Billing 828-262-0098. THURSDAYS: LIVING WITH CANCER (Topics change monthly) (3rd Thursday each month) September 18, 2008 - Informative classes on complementary medicine to coincide with treatments. Held at Project on Aging (Senior Center) in Boone. All ages welcome! Meets 1:30PM to 3:00 PM. Call 828-262-4332, ext. 27.

SHELTER ROCK MINISTRIES - Sundays at 10:00 AM - Foscoe - Turn at Taylor’s Store, go 1 1/2 miles, on left - Open to all... Morning Worship service...Come as you are to Worship with us... Tuesdays at 5:00 PM - Foscoe - Turn at Taylor’s Store, go 1 1/2 miles, on left - Open to all... Dinner, music and fellowship... Free food/grocery distribution after services...For more information call 963-4135 or 963-2568.

Smethport Independent Baptist Church Sunday Morning starting at 9:45am for Sunday School and worship services starting at 10:50am Sunday Night Service 6pm Prayer room 6:30pm-Service Wednesday Night-7pm worship and bible study.

Son’s Light Coffee House Worship - A Christian Coffee House centered around praise and worship activities (music, drama, etc.). Son’s Light Coffee House Worship meets weekly on Saturday evenings from 7:30 -10 PM at 174 Boone Hts. Dr. (828) 355-9267 Friday Nite Improv - A gathering for youth that meets every Friday night from 7:30 - 10 PM at The Son’s Light Coffee House. The “fun - based” evening features a different theme each week. The program’s intention is to promote the physical, mental, social, and spiritual growth among the high school and middle school students that are in attendance. 1st Fri. -”Movie Nite” 2nd Fri. - “Game Nite” 3rd Fri. - “Music Nite” 4th Fri. - “Drama & Dance Nite” 5th Fri. - “Art Nite” Vision Quest - An after school “hang out” that is open Mon. - Thur. from 3:30 -6:30 PM at The Son’s Light Coffee House. Vision Quest will focus on homework assistance for middle school and high school and high school students. David Ward (828)-265-7029 FMI- www.sonslightministries.com

ST. ELIZABETH CATHOLIC CHURCH, on Pilgrims Way off Meadowview Drive. Masses on Saturday at 5pm and on Sunday at 8:30 and 11am. Mass in Spanish Sunday at 5pm. Daily Masses Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 12:15pm. Church office, 264-8338.

ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAl TUESDAY: 5:30pm Tiaze Worship WEDNESDAY: 12:15 pm Holy Eucharist with ministry for Healing FRIDAY: 1:30 pm Centuring Prayer Sit, SUNDAY: 7:45am Holy Eucharist Rite I (Chapel) 8:45 am Glad News/Sad news 9:00 am Holy Eurcharist Rite II w/Family Choir 10:15 am Christian Formation - All Ages 11:15 am Holy Eucharist Rite II w/Chancel Choir. Child care available Sundays from 8 am to 12:30 pm 828-264-8943.

Enjoy Scottish Country Dancing with us! We have regular classes every Thursday night at 7:15 PM at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 170 Councill St. in Boone (behind EarthFare). This kind of dancing is a great way to have fun while improving your fitness and mind-body coordination. No partner and no experience needed. For more info, call Lee or Joann Ryan at Boone Scottish Country Dancers: 828-264-2871 or email to ryanlf@bellsouth.net.

ST. MARY OF THE HILLS EPISCOPAL CHURCH Located on the corner of Main Street and Chestnut Drive in Blowing Rock. Sunday Services:8 AM Holy Eucharist, 9 AM Sunday School for Adults and Children, 10:10 AM Holy Eucharist, Wednesday Noon: Holy Eucharist and Healing. Saturday through Thursday: Morning Prayer at 8:30 AM, Noonday Prayer at Noon, and Evening Prayer at 5 PM. 828-295-7323. Ash Wednesday Schedule February 6, 2008 7:00 AM Imposition of Ashes, 12:00 Noon Imposition of Ashes, Holy Eucharist, 2:45 PM Imposition of Ashes for Children & Parents (followed byhot cross buns and drinks in the Foyer)7:00 PM Imposition of Ashes

willow valley baptist church Sunday Services: Sunday School 10am, Worship Service 11am. Wednesday Service 7pm—Pastor Ray Greene

Yadkin Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Services are held at 1102 Country Club Road, Wilkesboro 1st and 3rd Sundays; coffee & fellowship at 10 am, service begins at 10:30. For details and directions, please call Teresa at 696-2341. We are a new and growing community of kindred spirits, all are welcome!

ZION HILL BAPTIST CHURCH Sugar Grove, Pastor James Hagaman.

CLASSES/WORKSHOPS

Salsa Lessons with Hassan Ghiassi Introducing something new to the area, Salsa Lessons! Each new session starts at the beginning of the month and continues every Wednesday night after at Studio-K Dance Workshop. Salsa is a fun, passionate, and energetic dance for couples, groups, and friends. Call or e-mail today to make appointments for private lessons, group lessons, weddings, and for information on the special offer happening in August and September!! 919-264-2162 sg69035@appstate.edu

COURSE IN MIRACLES Course in miracles is a self-study of the teachings of Jesus. If you are interested in meeting weekly to discuss these teachings, please call 828 264 9750 and leave a message. We are beginning anew the “lessons” in January 2009 and welcome newcomers. No previous experience with the course is necessary. There is no charge.

Art Classes Available at L.E. Harrill Senior Center Art classes are available at the Lois E. Harrill Senior Center in Boone. Class meets on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9am-12noon. There is no charge to attend for persons aged sixty and older. If there is space available persons under sixty may attend for a fee of $3.00 per class. Any experience level may come to either class but the Monday class targets Intermediate students while the Wednesday class targets Beginners. Marsha Holmes is the art instructor and has worked with the senior center classes for more than five years. She is an art major and recently had her own work showcased at the Jones House Community Center. For more information you may call the senior center at 265-8090.

Free Martial Arts Classes Free martial arts classes for kids and family available courtesy of Laurel Springs Baptist Church. Class are held on Monday nights from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Laurel Springs Baptist Church. The instructor is ordained Baptist minister. Call 828-406-5416 for more information, or email thekickfactory@yahoo.com, or go to freewebs.com/thekickfactory

Martial arts for students and families taught by baptist minister every Thursday @ Family Central. Class time is 6:30-7:15. Classes are offered on a donation basis. For more info or to register, email register4kicks@yahoo.com or call 246-2334 and leave a message.

Western Watauga Community /Jung Tao School Programs 1081 Old Us Hwy 421 Sugar Grove, NC 28679 828- 297-5195 *** Toni Wait. YOGA CLASSES ( great for seniors 60+) Fridays 12-1pm. Begins: Friday, January 9thth 2009 (12 sessions) Fee: (prepaid) $60.00 Limited Space. Deadline to pre-register and pre- pay: Thursday, Jan 8th. by 4pm at the Western Watauga Community Center. Call 297-5195 for more information*** Classes will be held at the Jung Tao School (upstairs.) Instructor: Akal Dev Sharonne has been a skilled teacher for 35 years. Her classes are a delightful blend of challenge, humor, and wisdom. * This class is appropriate for beginners, Seniors, and also experienced YOGA students.

Neighborhood Yoga A studio for the holistic and moving arts in downtown Boone, offers all levels of yoga. Located just behind 212 Water Street, one and a half blocks north of King Street. Additional parking on Queen Street. For more information call 265-0377 or go to www.neighborhoodyoga.NET for a complete schedule of classes and times.

BEGINNER SHAG LESSONS The Shag is the official popular dance of North Carolina! Come and enjoy learning to shag at beginner shag lessons with the Boone Shag Club. Lessons will be given each Tuesday night in October at the Meadowbrook Inn in Blowing Rock at 7 PM. For more information, call 295-9853

Yoga Classes scheduled for next session This next 12 week-session of Yoga classes is scheduled to begin at the Harrill senior center on Tuesday, January 6, ‘09 and will meet each Tuesday from 6:15 to 7:15 pm. Deadline to register will be 5pm Monday, January 5, ‘09. At the Western Watauga center class will begin on Friday, January 9th and will meet each Friday from 12noon to 1pm. Deadline to register will be 4pm Thursday, January 8. The cost of the 12-week sessions is $60.00 per person. Any age may register but if the class exceeds the attendance limit priority will be given to persons age sixty and older. You may call 265-8090 with any questions.

Hatha Yoga Classes Monday-Wednesday-Friday: 9:30am to 11:00am beginner. Monday-Wednesday-Friday: 5:15pm to 6:45pm mixed levels. Saturday: 9:00am to 10:30am: mixed levels. Pilatés Classes - Tuesday-Thursday: 5:30pm to 6:30pm. Modalities of massage therapy: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Reflexology, Stone Therapy, Raindrop Therapy, and Pregnancy. Facials: Signature, Gentleman’s, Anti-Aging Stone Crop, Cucumber Oxygen, Enzyme Peel, Back. Services provided by North Carolina Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapists and Estheticians. For information, or to make an appointment, call 295-5535.

Acupuncture Clinic Accepting New Patients Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine is an accredited acupuncture school located in historic Old Cove Creek School in Sugar Grove, 6 miles from Boone. Our teaching clinic offers holistic health care by fourth-year interns, supervised by experienced, licensed acupuncturists, for prevention and treatment of a wide variety of physical and emotional complaints. Enjoy positive well-being! Affordable sliding scale rates, with no proof of income required. Call now for an appointment, 828-297-4161.

Free 1-on-1 Computer Classes The Watauga County Library offers FREE one-on-one beginner computer classes Tuesday through Friday at 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Topics covered include Computer Basics; Internet Basics and Internet Searching; Introduction to Email and Microsoft Word. For further information and to sign up for classes, please contact the reference desk at 828-264-8784.

Jewish Roots Bible Study Classes taught by a Messianic Jew who has been teaching Jewish Roots in the Christian Community since 1988. Come learn about the roots of Christianity and how it connects to the First Century Faith, everyone is welcome. Meeting every Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. at Faith Fellowship in Jefferson, 513 E Main St. For more info, call 336-846-3346

Mom and Baby Postnatal yoga classes starting in November at Neighborhood Yoga in Boone. Join us every 1st and last Thursday of every month (excluding holidays) at 3:30 - 4:30. Babies from birth to pre-crawling welcome. No previous yoga experience necessary. Moms will want to bring blankets and toys for baby as this class encourages improvisation and play. $10/class or class card. Pre-registration preferred but not required. For more information call Corrie 297-3802.

VOLUNTEER

RAM Now Taking Applications Resort Area Ministries, Inc. (RAM) is now taking applications for Summer Mission work projects. For the past thirteen years, RAM has hosted church mission groups from the Southeastern United States. The projects will take place in June, July and August depending on the groups’ schedules. Projects may have to be rescheduled or canceled due to rainy or cold weather. If you would like to apply or know someone who would like to apply, contact Mary Dean Silver, Missions Coordinator, or Tom Moore, Executive Director, 828-264-6605. Applications for the work projects may be picked up at the RAM’s Rack Thrift Shop, 877 West King Street, Boone, NC.

Elk Knob State Park has concluded its volunteer trail work days that were being held on Saturdays. Work will begin again in the spring of 2009 once the ground thaws and we are able to dig again. Much appreciation goes out to all the individuals who have come up and worked with Park Staff on this trail and without your help we would not be as far along as we are today. Thank you for you time and willingness to give back to your community in such a way as this.

Former Military Members Sought for Disaster Response Team The North Carolina Emergency Reserves (NCER) is seeking former and Reserve Military members to serve with an all-volunteer disaster response corps. NCER is organized into seven regiments across the state. The Division HQ is located near Fort Bragg in Fayetteville. NCER is in need of additional volunteers with either enlisted or officer experience to assume positions of responsibility with respect to training and supervising volunteer troops. Persons of any MOS background are welcome, and special opportunities exist for those with medical or communications backgrounds. Applicants for service with NCER must be citizens of North Carolina who are at least 18 years of age and have no felony criminal record. Visit the organization online at www.ncer.us . Contact the group for more information at (910) 717-2627 or with an email to ncerg1@yahoo.com .

Habitat ReStore of Boone Habitat ReStore of Boone has kept over 227 tons of re-usable building and housing materials out of Watauga County’s landfill with the help of people like you. We need environmentally conscious volunteers to help us run the store and pick up donations. To volunteer, contact the Habitat ReStore at construction@wataugahabitat.org or call (828) 268-9545. If you have questions regarding