New Bird-Friendly Grandfather Mountain House Blend Coffee

How do you have a great cup of coffee and support the protection of migratory bird habitats at the same time? Have your java at Grandfather Mountain's Restaurant or Fudge Shop and savor their new brew made from SMBC certified bird-friendly Peruvian beans. Th beans are grown in the shade of a natural high tree canopy which helps maintain soil and water quality, provide fruit, nuts and other food sources, offer shelter, and promote the balanced ecosystems that the migratory birds need to thrive.

Grandfather Mountain teamed with Bald Guy Brew in Boone to develop its own house blend of bird-friendly coffee - which has been described as "Fabulous". In addition to being served in the restaurant and fudge shop, Grandfather Mountain Blend is available by the pound from the Nature Museum gift shop and on-line fromBald Guy Brew (http://www.baldguybrew.com). A pound of whole bean coffee sells for $12.95 and delivers all the satisfaction a cup can hold.

To read more about Grandfather Mountain Blend visit: http://www.grandfather.com/newsletter/july09/coffee.php

Pilot Mountain State Park is a short drive from Mount Airy

Pilot Mountain State Park, 1792 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle NC (336) 325-235. Approach from any direction and see Pilot Mountain rising more than 1,400 feet above the rolling countryside of the upper Piedmont plateau. Dedicated as a National Natural Landmark in 1976, this solitary peak is the centerpiece of Pilot Mountain State Park. Treat yourself to a horseback ride or challenge the river from raft or canoe. A seven-mile woodland corridor joins two sections of the park, each section offering a wealth of opportunities for outdoor fun. The mountain segment, which includes the two pinnacles, contains most of the visitor facilities. The more primitive river section centers around the lazy, meandering Yadkin River.
http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/pimo/main.php

End of Summer Family Fun Week in Chimney Rock Park

August 17 - 21 at Chimney Rock Park. Before they head back to school, pack up the kids and join us for a week of FREE programs. No pre-registration required. Meet at The Classroom on the Meadows. Programs will last 1 to 1 1/2 hours and include:

Marvelous Mammal Monday – Bring your family for an introduction to mammals native to Chimney Rock. Explore the skins and skulls of mammals from the region and participate in an up-close encounter with one of our furry friends.

Tree-mendous Tuesday – We all know trees are important, but do you know why? Come find out about some of our most common trees, their uses and even some tips on how to measure our woody friends.

Wild Things Wednesday – There are reptiles everywhere, but not everyone understands our scaly neighbors. This program will introduce you to common reptiles, their roles in our ecosystem, and even show you why they’re not so scary.

Threats & Thorns Thursday – Many plants and animals have special ways of protecting themselves. Sometimes these fancy adaptations can be a hazard to humans. Join us to discover more about some of the area’s most common threats.

Frolic to the Falls Friday – Lace up those shoes and go for a hike on the Park’s waterfall trail. We’ll point out native plants and trees while we make the moderate walk to the base of the 404-foot falls. Be sure to bring your camera!

http://www.chimneyrockpark.com

New River State Park Underwater Tour aug 22nd

August 22 at 2PM - Meet a Park Ranger to explore the critters in the river! The "Tour" will start at 2:00 pm at the Wagoner Access Office. Come prepared to get in the river. Bring a towel, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water. Don't forget to wear water shoes you can get wet. This will help you keep traction in the water. Come prepared to get wet. Shoes must be worn in the river.

August 14th Cades Cove Evening Hayride near Bryson City

August 14 from 6PM - 8PM in The Great Smoky Mountain National Park join a park ranger for an evening open-air hayride viewing wildlife and discovering the diversity of Cades Cove. Cades Cove Riding Stable - $8.50 per person.
http://www.nps.gov

Aug 16th The Legend of Tom Dooley at Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

August 16th Meet at picnic shelter 2:00pm - Join a Western North Carolina native as he relives the last days of the North Carolina legend, Tom Dooley. Did Tom Dooley murder Laura Foster in the Shadows of the Blue Ridge? The infamous story will be accompanied by songs to include the “Ballad of Tom Dooley.” Participants should meet at the Park Picnic Shelter All programs are free and open to the public.
For More Information Call (336) 246- 9653.

Smokey Bear's Birthday Party August 8th

August 8 11AM - 1 PM at The Cradle of Forestry Highway 276 in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard NC help celebrate Smokey Bear's Birthday! Child oriented event with music, games, art activities, wildland fire fighting tools, birthday cake, and the guest of honor, Smokey Bear. $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for youth under 16 and holders of Golden Age and America the Beautiful passes.
828-877-3130.

Wood Day at the Folk Art Center- Asheville

August 8 10AM - 4PM the Folk Art Center in Asheville NC hosts Wood Day. Wood Day at the Folk Art Center features wood craft demonstrations including carving, turning and furniture making by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The event includes activities for children and the annual Carve Off Competition.
Milepost 382 Blue Ridge Parkway
828-298-7928
http://southernhighlandguild.org/