Great Mountain Heritage Festival: In spite of threatening weather, I've heard nothing buy good things about last Saturday's festival. Great entertainment. The Jubilee Dancers and Foothill Cloggers kicked up their heels. Wayne and Helen are always a treat. The JAM kids showed their stuff. The Rise and Shine Band gets better every day. Joe Thrift and Kevin Fore were a welcome addition to the MHF stage. And what a kick in the pants Kelley (left) and the Cowboys turned out to be. And, a new Possum Queen was crowned: Luella Lane AKA Kicking Deer (far left). May your reign be long -- a year or so -- and prosperous. Thanks to everyone that helped. An attempt will be made later to thank everyone by name. Pics at sparta-nc.com/facebook
It's a boy! At 9 pounds, 4 ounces and 21 inches, Tate Gambill Weaver was born September 19 to Ashley and Dustin Weaver. Sincere and hearty congratulations to the Chamber' s Marketing Assistant. Mother and child are doing fine.
This is what it's all about. Making a better community for the next generation.
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Most of you are familiar with the red-suited elf who has a toy-manufacturing operation at the North Pole. It has always been long rumored that he summered somewhere south of the Pole, but when he settled in our community, it first struck me as unexpected. But then it made sense that he would chose the most delightful location in the world for his summer residence. And what a clever ruse to maintain his true identity. He poses as a retired dentist named Sam Simmons who disguises himself and plays himself during the holidays.
We are happy to welcome Blue Ridge Santa as a member of the Chamber. He is available during the Christmas season at your event! And this is no amateur with a fake wig that's too large. He is the real thing! Check the website link above or call today and ask about "Santa on Vacation." 336-657-3032
MAKING HAY FROM THE PARKWAY: The Blue Ridge Parkway is holding a 3-day workshop to hear input from Parkway communities and explore better ways to partner with these neighbors Nov. 5-17. Good News! It's close: at the Rex Theater in Galax, so we don't have to shoulder lodging costs. It's inexpensive: Registration for all 3 days is only $50. There's a free networking event and presentation by Ed McMahon Tuesday evening beginning at 6p. (More on McMahon in the Quick Editorial below).
I know a 3-day workshop in the middle of the week is more time than most folks can spare, but for those who have the time, I think this will be worthwhile. The detour has shown us how much traffic comes down the Parkway. And, if for no other reason than the Parkway's funding shortfall, I think Parkway officials are much more open to community partnerships. If you can't come to the workshop, come Tuesday evening. Click for more info (note the place may be listed at the Crossroads Institute. That's been changed to the Rex.)
QUICK EDITORIAL: Ed McMahon, senior fellow with the Urban Land Institute, (this is not the Johnny Carson sidekick or the father of wrestling impresario Vince McMahon) is the most inspiring speaker I have had the pleasure to have heard on the subject of protecting important historic spaces from development and he does it in the context of respecting land development rights. That's a thin line to walk, but he does it. He is going to speak at the Parkway conference highlighted above as part of a free evening networking program.
I would encourage as many members as possible of the planning boards of the county and town to attend, as well as any interested resident. The concern that has been voiced about the impact on Parkway detour traffic of a number of eyesores on our main thoroughfares indicates the time is right for the thoughtful action McMahon encourages. Click to learn more about his appearance. Learn more about McMahon. Though the program is free, an RSVP to leesa_brandon@partner.nps.gov would help organizers know how many participants to plan for.
HOMECOMING PARADE FRIDAY: Let's see everyone on Main Street at 1p for the AHS Homecoming Parade. And then plan to be at Woodruff Field at 7:30p as the Trojans clip the wings of the Forbush Falcons.
NEW ON MAIN STREET: Murphy's Mercantile (Chrystie Murphy 372-1988) and Studio Redwood (Chris Davis 372-7111) have opened retail stores, side-by-side in the historic Northwestern Bank building at the corner of Main and Whitehead streets. Another source for unique items just in time for Christmas shopping.
And speaking of Main Street, Phyllis Miller at Touch of Grace must have slipped a cog. She's knocking 70% off summer apparel and 50% off select shoes and Vera Bradley items.
HAPPENING EVERY WEEK: The VFW hosts an informal coffee just for veterans every Wednesday from 8:30-11 a.m. Actually, it's a breakfast. Get to know local vets more and enjoy good conservation. Click to learn more.
Weather permitting, there's lots to do in our community. Where provided, click on the links for more information.
Wednesday & Thursday, September 21 & 22
This free Fall Prevention Workshop is helpful to seniors and disabled.
Thursday, September 22
North Carolina Cooperative Extension will lead a Specialty Crops Field Day on Producing Specialty Vegetable Crops for Winter Harvests in the High Country region using High Tunnels and other season extension strategies.
Come enjoy a special music Deck the Halls at the Library.
Too few customers? Have we got the program just for you!
Chris Davis will demonstrate Faux Finishes at the free presentation.
Saturday, September 24
The Wellness Center begins classes in Holy Yoga, a gentler form of the body stretching program.
Big Blue Beat is entertaining for the Hospice Hop Benefit.
Those trucks with big tires are Slinging Mud at the Fairgrounds.
Experience Pain Management and Stress Reduction through Alternative Medicine in this program at the Wellness Center.
Can you find your way through the Fodder Trot Corn Maze?
Saturday, September 24 & Sunday, September 25
Get ready for Halloween or get the fixin's for your pumpkin pie recipe. Pick your own pumpkin at the Great Pumpkin Patch.
Sunday, September 25
Come to New River State Park to for Slithering Scales, a program on snakes.
Hersey Shumate will present a program on Ham Radio with equipment to show at the Alleghany Genealogy and Historical Society meeting at the Alleghany Library beginning at 2:30p. The public is invited to attend. 336-372-4214
Monday, September 26
Give the gift of life, Donate Blood.
Tuesday, September 27
Entrepreneurs have the ability to stay positive, productive and effective, no matter what the circumstances! They exhibit the traits of character that enhance success including openness to change, resiliency, emotional stability/intelligence, accepting of constructive criticism and rejection, and the capacity to handle adversity. They do not allow themselves to be victimized by circumstances and exhibit extraordinary self-control. Learn how to develop these qualities in yourself at "Becoming the Totally Responsible Entrepreneur," a free program in Winston-Salem at Piedmont Triad Community Research Center Auditorium.
Farmers, Tier 2 Training Workshop for getting your produce cleared for market. Participants are entered in a drawing for $500!
Wednesday, September 28
Learn to stay safe in an emergency at this Lunch and Learn program at the Library.
Thursday, September 29
Be entertained by this gospel music program at the Library.
Learn how to network like a pro.
Friday, September 30
Sample Guenoc wines from Northern California at this month's gathering at Backwood's Bean.
Sunday, October 2
Sample the fruit of the vine at the Thistle Meadow Fall Wine Festival.
Monday, October 3
Learn to make money on EBay.
This Arthritis Foundation special program will help you Walk With Ease.
Tuesday, October 4
Learn how to get the most from high-speed Internet.
Wednesday, October 5
Learn how to cope while Living with Chronic Disease.
AREA MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT
>> Alleghany Jubilee: Come to listen or come to dance to the blue grass and old time musicians who play on Tuesday beginning at 7p and Saturday at 8p. Admission $4. The Jubilee is located on North Main Street, across from the courthouse. 336-372-4591
>> Crouse House Pickers: Local blue grass and old time musicians jam each Monday, 2 blocks north of the Courthouse at the Crouse House in Crouse Park, beginning at 6p. Come and play or just listen. No charge, but a donation is appreciated. 336-372-5473
>> Alleghany Jubilee: Come to listen or come to dance to the blue grass and old time musicians who play on Tuesday beginning at 7p and Saturday at 8p. Admission $4. The Jubilee is located on North Main Street, across from the courthouse. 336-372-4591
>> Crouse House Pickers: Local blue grass and old time musicians jam each Monday, 2 blocks north of the Courthouse at the Crouse House in Crouse Park, beginning at 6p. Come and play or just listen. No charge, but a donation is appreciated. 336-372-5473
ACTV SPECIALS
>> Alleghany Jubilee on TV: Every Thursday at 7p on Alleghany CableVision channel 50 and Skybest cable channel 21.
>> Alleghany Memories: Interviews with long-time Alleghany residents recalling local history Every Thursday at 8p on Alleghany CableVision channel 50 and Skybest cable channel 21.
GREAT ACTIVITIES TO DO ANYTIME
>> Alleghany Farmers' Market: Check the Alleghany Farmers Market Facebook page for information on upcoming vendors at the Thursday (3:30-5:30p) and Saturday (10a-2p) in front of the Farmers' Hardware Parking Lot.
>>Barn Quilt Trails: Barns and other structures throughout Alleghany County are adorned with large squares illustrating quilt patterns and add interest to a driving tour of the countryside. Drop by Alleghany Chamber of Commerce and Visitors' Center for a brochure. We are in the rock building with the green awning (58 South Main Street, Sparta). Our foyer is always open and a brochure is always available.
>>Driving Loops: Brochures for three driving loops of the Alleghany countryside are available at the Alleghany Chamber of Commerce and Visitors' Center. Each loop is about a leisurely hour's drive and includes information on historic points along the way. The Chamber office is in the rock building with the green awning (58 South Main Street, Sparta). Our foyer is always open and a brochure is always available.
>> Alleghany Historical Museum is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stop by to experience local history and to see the new displays, 7 North Main Street, Sparta.
>>Driving Loops: Brochures for three driving loops of the Alleghany countryside are available at the Alleghany Chamber of Commerce and Visitors' Center. Each loop is about a leisurely hour's drive and includes information on historic points along the way. The Chamber office is in the rock building with the green awning (58 South Main Street, Sparta). Our foyer is always open and a brochure is always available.
>> Alleghany Historical Museum is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stop by to experience local history and to see the new displays, 7 North Main Street, Sparta.
>> Veterans' Morning Coffee at the VFW: The VFW hosts an informal coffee just for veterans every Wednesday from 8:30-11 a.m. Click to learn more.
Check for upcoming events: On our website are listings for our Calendar. Check them often and let us know if your activity is not listed.
Bob Bamberg
Executive Director
Alleghany Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 1237 Sparta, NC 28675
336-372-5473
Director@Sparta-NC.com
Sparta-NC.com
This email is a weekly update of news and information from your Chamber of Commerce. If you do not receive a fully formatted copy, it can be viewed on the Web at http://www.blogger.com/www.sparta-nc.blogspot.com.
Check for upcoming events: On our website are listings for our Calendar. Check them often and let us know if your activity is not listed.
Bob Bamberg
Executive Director
Alleghany Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 1237 Sparta, NC 28675
336-372-5473
Director@Sparta-NC.com
Sparta-NC.com
This email is a weekly update of news and information from your Chamber of Commerce. If you do not receive a fully formatted copy, it can be viewed on the Web at http://www.blogger.com/www.sparta-nc.blogspot.com.
Subscribe: If you are viewing this on the Web and would like a copy emailed to you as soon as it is updated each week, email director@sparta-nc.com with Subscribe in the subject line.
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