PLEASE REMEMBER WAYNE: Wayne Andrews undergoes surgery for a brain aneurysm at Baptist Hospital Wednesday. Wayne is a Chamber Board Member and local builder. Those of you who know Wayne, know he recently suffered a fall off a 2-story roof. The aneurysm was discovered while doctors were looking for further damage from the fall. While this could be a blessing in disguise, it is a bit anxiety provoking to have doctors cut into your brain. Wayne is a real asset to this community and I know he'd would appreciate it if you kept him in his thoughts and prayers.
VOTE FOR SPARTA: Readers Digest is offering $50,000 to the small town that receives the most online votes in their "We Hear You America." You can vote as often as you like. The good news is that since it is limited to small towns, we're not competing against Charlotte or Atlanta. We already have 4 votes and I cast two of them, so boot up those computers and GET TO VOTING. We need all the help we can get. Click for details. (If we win the $50,000 and can't decide what to do with the money, the Chamber will happily accept it.)
~ Bob Bamberg
VOTE FOR SPARTA: Readers Digest is offering $50,000 to the small town that receives the most online votes in their "We Hear You America." You can vote as often as you like. The good news is that since it is limited to small towns, we're not competing against Charlotte or Atlanta. We already have 4 votes and I cast two of them, so boot up those computers and GET TO VOTING. We need all the help we can get. Click for details. (If we win the $50,000 and can't decide what to do with the money, the Chamber will happily accept it.) 
4-H TAKING ORDERS FOR SPRING GARDENS: Order now to get your blueberry, blackberry, grape, herb, horseradish, raspberry and strawberry plants in time for spring planting. All orders are due by Friday, March 16, 2012. Don't miss out. You'll be sorry when your neighbors are picking their strawberries. Payment is due at the time the orders are placed. Check the 4-H Website for more details or call 336-372-5597.
MADE IN USA LEATHER SPECIALS: Fox Creek Leather is having the season clearance sale and there's not a piece of plastic imitation leather from across the Pacific in the offering. For long-lasting quality at prices as much as half off, check them out at www.foxcreekleather.com/blowouts. Located on US 21 2 miles north of Independence, Virginia.
CHAMBER GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE ALL YEAR: The Chamber will be offering gift certificates that can be redeemed at most Chamber members year round. The procedure is the same as with the Christmas certificates. The design is a little different (after all, the holly wreathe is out of of season.) This is a great way to keep money in the circulating locally. Give them for birthdays and anniversaries. Employers: Give them an bonuses or reward for exemplary performance. They're better than money because it is subject to income tax. They come in $25 and $10 denominations. Questions: Email director@sparta-nc.com or call 336-372-5473.
FEBRUARY IS QUILT MONTH AT THE LIBRARY: Check out the special quilts on display this month at the Alleghany Public Library. The exhibit room really shows off the local talent of our quilters.
HAPPENING EVERY WEEK: 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.
Weather permitting, there's lots to do in our community. Where provided, click on the links for more information.
Friday-Sunday, Feb. 24-26
NEW RIVER BRIDAL EXPO: Brides and Wedding Services Providers, it's not too early to sign up. The New River Bridal Expo, February 24-26 at River Country Estates offers brides a chance to pamper themselves and discover all the services available for their special day. Bridal Services: whether you have a stunning location for an outdoor wedding or are looking for catering opportunities, you want to be sure to be there and grab the attention of these brides to be. Learn more at: http://newriverbridalexpo.com/. SPECIAL CLUBHOUSE TOURS: You don't have to be a bride to see the stunning River Country Estates Clubhouse and enjoy its amenities. Tours are being offered during the Expo that include some of the Expo amenities plus a chance to enjoy one of the premier meeting and recreation facilities in the area. Click for more info.Friday, February 24
Eat in or take out dinner at the Poor Man's Supper to support Blue Ridge Christian School, held at Sparta United Methodist Church.
Taste the fruit of the vine and the monthly Wine Tasting at Backwoods Bean Coffee Shop.
Sunday, February 26
Enjoy two big features at the Movie Matinee at River Country Estates: Down and Derby and Mighty Macs.
Monday, February 27
Join Dialogue Matters for their Luncheon Discussion Group. Bring a bag lunch and explore Mindset by Carol Dweck and in the process unlock your potential.
Friday, March 2
Support the Wellness Center and enjoy a Pancake Breakfast. Eat in, take out or delivery (within Sparta on multiple orders).
Tuesday, March 6
Think you might have what it takes to start your own business? Be sure to attend "Exploring Entrepreneurship" at Wilkes Community College, Alleghany Center.
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
ACTV SPECIALS
>> Alleghany Jubilee on TV: Every Thursday at 7p on Alleghany CableVision channel 98 (formerly 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 98 (formerly Channel 50) and Skybest cable channel 21.
GREAT ACTIVITIES TO DO ANYTIME
>> 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.
>> 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
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