Calendar of Events
Jan. 27
BLOWING ROCK WINTERFEST: Join the Village of Blowing Rock as it celebrates the fun side of winter at the 14th annual Blowing Rock WinterFest through Jan. 29. The event includes the Chili Challenge, Polar Plunge, WinterFeast, Wine Tasting and Auction, ice sculpture contest and demonstration, pancake breakfast, Winter Paws Dog Show, live game shows and much more. For more information, call (828) 295-7851.
WINTERFEST AT APP SKI MOUNTAIN: Join Appalachian Ski Mountain and French-Swiss Ski College on Friday, Jan. 27, as they celebrate 50 years during the 2012 Blowing Rock WinterFest. Although there will be skiing, ice skating and snowboarding all month as usual, App Ski will present a special WinterFest Family Night on Jan. 27. Learn to Ski/Snowboard packages will be offered through French-Swiss Ski College. Ski lesson packages are $46 per person. Snowboard lesson packages are $58 per person. Package includes slope ticket from 5 p.m. to midnight, rental equipment and a one-hour group lesson. Lesson times are 6:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. For extra incentive, Appalachian Ski Mountain is also offering ice skating to the nonslope seekers, s'mores roasting by the rink-side bonfire, a dedicated Snow Play Zone by the Ice Arena and more. Reservations are required but no deposit is necessary. For more information, call French-Swiss Ski College at (828) 295-9311, or email (skifrenchswiss@bellsouth.net)
A SPECIAL SINGING: will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27, at Mt. Paran Baptist Church at 3795 Wildcat Road in Deep Gap. Featured singers will be James and Starla Dean from the Kevin Spencer Family. A love offering will be received. For any further information, contact Pastor Rick Cornejo at (336) 977-8722.
Jan. 28
MOUNT JEFFERSON STATE NATURAL AREA: in Ashe County will offer a program on “Mount Jefferson Geology” at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 28. Meet at the picnic shelter. Three hundred million years ago, colossal mountains may have towered 15,000 feet above sea level. Today. Mt. Jefferson is in the same location, but it is just a fraction of its original size. Come and explore the mountain that was ancient when dinosaurs ruled the earth. Discover how ice and heat have changed an ancient landscape.
BENEFIT SINGING: Refuge Baptist Church in Blowing Rock will be hosting a benefit singing at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28. The singing will feature the groups Green Grass and The Dollar Brothers. For more information, call Carrie at (828) 263-2009.
BOOK SIGNING: In conjunction with Blowing Rock’s WinterFest celebration, Jonathan Graves will sign copies of his new children’s book, “Isabella Propeller and the Magic Beanie,” at the American Legion Hall on Wallingford Street from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28. “Isabella Propeller,” illustrated by award-winning children’s book illustrator Gail Haley, is a tale of a young girl’s adventures and is set in Blowing Rock. For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.
TWEETSIE AUDITIONS: Tweetsie Railroad and Wild West theme park will hold auditions for its 2012 season on Saturday, Jan. 28, at Valborg Theatre on the ASU campus in Boone. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and auditions begin at 10 a.m. Tweetsie is looking for performers, including cloggers, magicians, equestrians and other specialty acts. It is also looking for production crew members with experience in carpentry, electrical work, lighting, audio editing, live mixing, costume and wardrobe work. Auditioning performers for the Wild West and Can-Can shows should be prepared to perform a one-minute monologue from a play, movie or original work and a song that showcases the singer’s voice. Can-can candidates should be prepared for dance exercise and dress appropriately. Tweetsie’s 2012 work schedule is from April 13 to Oct. 28. For more information, visit http://www.tweetsie.com .
THE CHARGERS AND RECHARGERS HIKING CLUB: on Saturday, Jan. 28, will hike Holloway Road to Cold Prong or possibly on to Boone Fork bridge if trail conditions permit, with the return the same way. The hike is 4.5 to 7 miles of moderate walking. No dogs are permitted. Call hike leader Juin Adams at (828) 295-9607 for more information.
Jan. 29
MOUNT JEFFERSON STATE NATURAL AREA: in Ashe County will offer a hike with the theme “Plants, Birds, Rocks and Things” at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29. Meet at the picnic area. Hike with a ranger and explore the interconnected threads that have built this mountain ecosystem. See why Mt. Jefferson is a National Natural Landmark.
A BAHA’I DEVOTIONAL MEETING: will be held at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, at 297 Cherry Drive in Boone. Following the devotional, there will be a study class on Islam. Baha’is believe that all the world's great faiths are divine in origin. For more information and directions, call 264-2297.
THE FOURTH ANNUAL WINTER PAWS DOG SHOW: WINTER PAWS: has been scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 29, as part of Blowing Rock’s WinterFest celebrations. The event is co-sponsored by The Pet Place at the Shops at Shadowline in Boone and the Watauga Humane Society to benefit homeless animals in the community. The show, which begins at 1:30 p.m., will be held in the gymnasium of Blowing Rock Elementary School, 165 Morris St. in downtown Blowing Rock. An afternoon of light-hearted competition and canine fun has been planned, with ribbons and prizes to be awarded in 10 categories. Registration begins at 12:45 p.m., and all dogs must be on a leash and current with rabies vaccinations. A registration fee of $10 allows participation in two categories of choice, while a $15 registration fee entitles participation in any or all 10 prize categories. Free samples of dog food and free doggie treats are provided with each registration. Visit the WinterFest website http://atwww.BlowingRockWinterfest.com for full details, or phone Ellen Jo at (828) 264-6468.
Jan. 30
EAT SMART, MOVE MORE, WEIGH LESS: is a weight management program developed by nutrition experts at the N.C. Cooperative Extension and N.C. Division of Public Health. Weekly 45 to 60 minute sessions will be offered beginning at 5:15 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, and continuing until April 30 at the Agricultural Conference Center, 252 Poplar Grove Road in Boone. Cost for the entire series is $45, payable before the class begins at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, 971 West King St., Boone, phone 264-3061. To make sure you are ready to make a permanent commitment and for more information, go to http://wataugaces.blogspot.com .
THE CHARGERS AND RECHARGERS HIKING CLUB: on Monday, Jan. 30, will hike to the Flat Top Observation Tower. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Cone Manor House, in front of the Carriage Barn, on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Boone and Blowing Rock. No dogs are permitted. The hike will be short and should be completed by noon.
EIGHTH-GRADE PARENT NIGHTS: Watauga High School will host “Parent Nights” for current eighth-graders and their parents in the WHS auditorium from 7 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 30, and from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31. All eighth-graders planning to enter WHS in the 2012-13 school year, along with their parents or guardians, are expected to attend on their school’s assigned night. The Jan. 30 meeting is for students and parents from Cove Creek, Green Valley, Parkway and Valle Crucis schools and Grace Academy. The Jan. 31is for students and parents from Bethel, Blowing Rock, Hardin Park, Mabel and Two Rivers schools. However, parents unable to attend on their scheduled night can attend the other meeting. Home-school students and their parents or guardians can attend either night. Parent Nights will help current eighth-graders and their parents learn about registration and scheduling, as well as opportunities and expectations at WHS.
Jan. 31
EIGHTH-GRADE PARENT NIGHTS: Watauga High School will host “Parent Nights” for current eighth-graders and their parents in the WHS auditorium from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31. All eighth-graders planning to enter WHS in the 2012-13 school year, along with their parents or guardians, are expected to attend on their school’s assigned night. The Jan. 31 meeting is for students and parents from Bethel, Blowing Rock, Hardin Park, Mabel and Two Rivers schools.
Feb. 1
VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION AT ALFA: The AIDS Leadership Foothills-area will hold a volunteer orientation from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at Catawba Valley Medical Center in AHEC classroom 105. A light dinner and refreshments will be available. Participants in the two-hour orientation will learn the basic facts of HIV/AIDS, how to get involved in the numerous volunteer opportunities, the psychosocial issues surrounding the illness and how stigma affects those who are living with the virus. ALFA is an AIDS service organization in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Lincoln, Watauga and Wilkes counties. For more information about the ALFA volunteer program, or to register for the orientation, contact Linda H. Sheehan at 322-1447, ext. 231, or at (alfavol@alfainfo.org) or http://www.alfainfo.org .
The RYOANJI DUO: comprised of saxophonist Frank Bongiorno and guitarist Robert Nathanson will perform Feb. 1 at Appalachian State University. The 8 p.m. recital will be held in Broyhill Music Center’s Recital Hall. Admission is free. Frequently invited to perform at saxophone, guitar and composer conferences, the duo has also toured throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.
WATAUGA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET: will be accepting applications for membership for 2012 beginning Feb. 1. For more information, call (828)-355-4918 or email (info@wataugacountyfarmersmarket.org)
Feb. 3
OPEN HOUSE: The National Committee for the New River will hold an open house at its new office in Ashe County from 4 to 6 p.m. Feb. 3. The location is 1 North Jefferson Ave, Suite D, West Jefferson.
Feb. 4
MICROCHIP CLINIC FOR PETS: Microchipping is the process of embedding a tiny identification microchip under a pet's skin, which can be scanned and read at shelter facilities to identify the pet's owner. Saturday microchip clinics are routinely held at the Animal Medical Center of Boone, 1582 Old 421 South, from 11:30 am until noon. The $25 microchip fee benefits the Watauga Humane Society. Proof of current rabies vaccination is required. The next microchip clinic will be held on Saturday, Feb. 4. For more information, call the Watauga Humane Society at (828) 264-7865, email (adopt@wataugahumanesociety.org) or visit http://www.wataugahumanesociety.org .
Feb. 7
“A MUSICAL POTPOURRI”: will be presented by the faculty from the ASU Hayes School of Music at 8 p.m. Feb. 7 in Broyhill Music Center’s Rosen Concert Hall at Appalachian State University. Admission is free. A variety of classical and contemporary works for vocalists and instrumentalists will be performed.
INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE BEGINS: The AARP Tax-Aide Program will again offer free tax preparation for seniors, as well as low and middle income taxpayers. Electronic filing (E-file) is available. To be eligible, you should not have any of the following types of income: rental, partnership, business requiring Schedule C, royalties, and sale of home or business. If your tax return is relatively complex you will be advised to seek professional tax assistance. Federal and North Carolina returns will be filed, but no out-of-state returns will be completed. The Tax-Aide Program will run from Feb.7 to April 17. Counselors will be at the Lois E. Harrill Center on Tuesdays and at the Western Watauga Community Center in Cove Creek on Mondays. Call for an appointment and for information about documents to bring with you: Harrill Center, 265-8090; Western Watauga Center, 297-5195. An appointment is required.
Feb. 11
HUNGRY HEARTS ART AUCTION: sponsored by F.A.R.M. Cafe will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Feb. 11 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Boone. All proceeds from the Hungry Hearts Art Auction will benefit the nonprofit restaurant. The auction includes a combination silent and live auction. Cost is $5 to participate. Cullie Tarleton of Blowing Rock will lead the live auction beginning at 6:20 p.m. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and beverages will be available for purchase. For more information, call Tracey Thompson at (828) 963-6511, ext. 243. For more information about the cafe, visit http://www.farmcafe.org .
Feb. 12
THE BLOWING ROCK HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The Blowing Rock Historical Society will host its Winter Pot Luck Supper and Program at the Blowing Rock American Legion Hall on Wallingford Street on Sunday, Feb. 12. Gathering and refreshments begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by a potluck supper at 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., guest speaker Bruce E. Stewart will share his thoughts on his book, “Prohibitionists: The Battle Over Alcohol in Southern Appalachia.” Stewart will have copies of his book for sale and will be glad to autograph them. Those attending should bring their favorite dish (casserole, salad, dessert, etc.) with serving utensils. Coffee and water will be provided. RSVP to Ginny Stevens at (828) 295-3021 or Priscilla Popper at (828) 295-0000 by Feb. 8. The event is free.
Feb. 16
WOODY DURHAM: who served as the “Voice of the Tarheels” for 40 years, will speak at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum on Thursday, Feb. 16. The 12-time North Carolina Sportscaster of the Year is much beloved by UNC alumni and fans. Durham’s talk, titled “Stories Along the Way,” will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the museum’s Community Meeting Room. Tickets are $20 per person and include “tailgating,” refreshments, beverages and fellowship. Seating is limited. For more information, call BRAHM at (828) 295-9099, ext. 3001.
SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE: The deadline for high school senior and college students from the Blowing Rock area to apply for Blowing Rock Community Foundation scholarships is Feb. 16. Students attending community college, technical school, two/four year colleges and universities who have lived in the Blowing Rock School District and attended Watauga High School for a minimum of two years are eligible. Applications are available at the Guidance Office at Watauga High School, at Blowing Rock Town Hall, or online at http://www.blowingrockcf.org . Interviews will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, March 7 and 8, at the Blowing Rock Town Hall.
POLAR PLUNGE FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS: ASU will host the 14th Annual Polar Plunge Feb. 16 at the campus duck pond to support the Special Olympics athletes of Watauga County. The event will begin at 4 p.m., immediately following registration at 3 p.m. To those interested in participating, a minimum age of 16 is required. To participate in the plunge individually, there is a $25 entry fee. For groups of five or more, the fee is $20 per jumper. Prizes will be awarded to the most extreme costume for male and female jumper, top fundraising group and fundraising individual. All those who participate will receive a Polar Plunge beach towel. Last year, 200 participants joined in the Polar Plunge raising $8,000 for the Watauga County athletes. With last year’s total included, the total amount raised in this event’s 13-year history is more than $93,000. For information on how to register for the event or how to make a donation, contact Keron Poteat, Watauga County Special Olympics coordinator, at (828) 264-9511 or (keron.poteat@watgov.org)
DOG OBEDIENCE CLASSES: Vanessa Van Valin of Dog’s Best Friend Training, will be teaching a basic dog obedience class using the clicker training technique this winter. She will be conducting a five-week program from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings, Feb. 16 and 23 and March 1, 8 and 15. Cost of class is $150. Classes will be held in the Watauga Humane Society’s Community Room, and a portion of the proceeds benefits the animals at the Watauga Humane Society. For further information, or to reserve a place in class, contact Van Valin at (828) 964-8885.
Feb. 17
DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR MASTER GARDENER’S CLASS: The 2012 Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program is now accepting applications. Classes will meet weekly from 1 to 4:30 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 7, and continuing through May. Applications can be picked up at the Watauga Cooperative Extension Center located at 971 West King St. in Boone, or downloaded at http://wataugaces.blogspot.com 2012/01/become-extension-master-gardener.html. Applications must be received by Feb. 17. The course fee is $ 125 and includes a comprehensive training manual and additional materials throughout the course. Two reduced-fee scholarships are also available to qualifying individuals. No gardening experience is necessary to participate in the program. For more information,contact Meghan Baker at meghan_baker@ncsu.edu or (828) 264-3061.
Feb. 18
WORKSHOP ON BRAZIL: The Office International Education and Development at ASU is offering a workshop for educators on Brazilian Culture to initiate an annual international education professional development opportunity for K-12 educators in our region. "Living Brazil: The Impact of the World Cup and Related Contemporary Issues" will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, on campus. The workshop fee is $15. For more information and to register, visit http://international.appstate.edu _workshop. Registration deadline is Feb. 11.
Feb. 20
FREE BUSINESS WORKSHOP: The Watauga Small Business will host a free workshop on using Google Apps for Business and Google Adwords from 10 a.m. to noon on Feb. 20 at the Appalachian Enterprise Center, 130 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone. Enoch Moeller, Google's operations manager in Lenoir, will be the speaker. For more information, call Evelyn Asher at 719-7227.
BLOWING ROCK WINTERFEST: Join the Village of Blowing Rock as it celebrates the fun side of winter at the 14th annual Blowing Rock WinterFest through Jan. 29. The event includes the Chili Challenge, Polar Plunge, WinterFeast, Wine Tasting and Auction, ice sculpture contest and demonstration, pancake breakfast, Winter Paws Dog Show, live game shows and much more. For more information, call (828) 295-7851.
WINTERFEST AT APP SKI MOUNTAIN: Join Appalachian Ski Mountain and French-Swiss Ski College on Friday, Jan. 27, as they celebrate 50 years during the 2012 Blowing Rock WinterFest. Although there will be skiing, ice skating and snowboarding all month as usual, App Ski will present a special WinterFest Family Night on Jan. 27. Learn to Ski/Snowboard packages will be offered through French-Swiss Ski College. Ski lesson packages are $46 per person. Snowboard lesson packages are $58 per person. Package includes slope ticket from 5 p.m. to midnight, rental equipment and a one-hour group lesson. Lesson times are 6:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. For extra incentive, Appalachian Ski Mountain is also offering ice skating to the nonslope seekers, s'mores roasting by the rink-side bonfire, a dedicated Snow Play Zone by the Ice Arena and more. Reservations are required but no deposit is necessary. For more information, call French-Swiss Ski College at (828) 295-9311, or email (skifrenchswiss@bellsouth.net)
A SPECIAL SINGING: will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27, at Mt. Paran Baptist Church at 3795 Wildcat Road in Deep Gap. Featured singers will be James and Starla Dean from the Kevin Spencer Family. A love offering will be received. For any further information, contact Pastor Rick Cornejo at (336) 977-8722.
Jan. 28
MOUNT JEFFERSON STATE NATURAL AREA: in Ashe County will offer a program on “Mount Jefferson Geology” at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 28. Meet at the picnic shelter. Three hundred million years ago, colossal mountains may have towered 15,000 feet above sea level. Today. Mt. Jefferson is in the same location, but it is just a fraction of its original size. Come and explore the mountain that was ancient when dinosaurs ruled the earth. Discover how ice and heat have changed an ancient landscape.
BENEFIT SINGING: Refuge Baptist Church in Blowing Rock will be hosting a benefit singing at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28. The singing will feature the groups Green Grass and The Dollar Brothers. For more information, call Carrie at (828) 263-2009.
BOOK SIGNING: In conjunction with Blowing Rock’s WinterFest celebration, Jonathan Graves will sign copies of his new children’s book, “Isabella Propeller and the Magic Beanie,” at the American Legion Hall on Wallingford Street from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28. “Isabella Propeller,” illustrated by award-winning children’s book illustrator Gail Haley, is a tale of a young girl’s adventures and is set in Blowing Rock. For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.
TWEETSIE AUDITIONS: Tweetsie Railroad and Wild West theme park will hold auditions for its 2012 season on Saturday, Jan. 28, at Valborg Theatre on the ASU campus in Boone. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and auditions begin at 10 a.m. Tweetsie is looking for performers, including cloggers, magicians, equestrians and other specialty acts. It is also looking for production crew members with experience in carpentry, electrical work, lighting, audio editing, live mixing, costume and wardrobe work. Auditioning performers for the Wild West and Can-Can shows should be prepared to perform a one-minute monologue from a play, movie or original work and a song that showcases the singer’s voice. Can-can candidates should be prepared for dance exercise and dress appropriately. Tweetsie’s 2012 work schedule is from April 13 to Oct. 28. For more information, visit http://www.tweetsie.com .
THE CHARGERS AND RECHARGERS HIKING CLUB: on Saturday, Jan. 28, will hike Holloway Road to Cold Prong or possibly on to Boone Fork bridge if trail conditions permit, with the return the same way. The hike is 4.5 to 7 miles of moderate walking. No dogs are permitted. Call hike leader Juin Adams at (828) 295-9607 for more information.
Jan. 29
MOUNT JEFFERSON STATE NATURAL AREA: in Ashe County will offer a hike with the theme “Plants, Birds, Rocks and Things” at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29. Meet at the picnic area. Hike with a ranger and explore the interconnected threads that have built this mountain ecosystem. See why Mt. Jefferson is a National Natural Landmark.
A BAHA’I DEVOTIONAL MEETING: will be held at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, at 297 Cherry Drive in Boone. Following the devotional, there will be a study class on Islam. Baha’is believe that all the world's great faiths are divine in origin. For more information and directions, call 264-2297.
THE FOURTH ANNUAL WINTER PAWS DOG SHOW: WINTER PAWS: has been scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 29, as part of Blowing Rock’s WinterFest celebrations. The event is co-sponsored by The Pet Place at the Shops at Shadowline in Boone and the Watauga Humane Society to benefit homeless animals in the community. The show, which begins at 1:30 p.m., will be held in the gymnasium of Blowing Rock Elementary School, 165 Morris St. in downtown Blowing Rock. An afternoon of light-hearted competition and canine fun has been planned, with ribbons and prizes to be awarded in 10 categories. Registration begins at 12:45 p.m., and all dogs must be on a leash and current with rabies vaccinations. A registration fee of $10 allows participation in two categories of choice, while a $15 registration fee entitles participation in any or all 10 prize categories. Free samples of dog food and free doggie treats are provided with each registration. Visit the WinterFest website http://atwww.BlowingRockWinterfest.com for full details, or phone Ellen Jo at (828) 264-6468.
Jan. 30
EAT SMART, MOVE MORE, WEIGH LESS: is a weight management program developed by nutrition experts at the N.C. Cooperative Extension and N.C. Division of Public Health. Weekly 45 to 60 minute sessions will be offered beginning at 5:15 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, and continuing until April 30 at the Agricultural Conference Center, 252 Poplar Grove Road in Boone. Cost for the entire series is $45, payable before the class begins at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, 971 West King St., Boone, phone 264-3061. To make sure you are ready to make a permanent commitment and for more information, go to http://wataugaces.blogspot.com .
THE CHARGERS AND RECHARGERS HIKING CLUB: on Monday, Jan. 30, will hike to the Flat Top Observation Tower. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Cone Manor House, in front of the Carriage Barn, on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Boone and Blowing Rock. No dogs are permitted. The hike will be short and should be completed by noon.
EIGHTH-GRADE PARENT NIGHTS: Watauga High School will host “Parent Nights” for current eighth-graders and their parents in the WHS auditorium from 7 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 30, and from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31. All eighth-graders planning to enter WHS in the 2012-13 school year, along with their parents or guardians, are expected to attend on their school’s assigned night. The Jan. 30 meeting is for students and parents from Cove Creek, Green Valley, Parkway and Valle Crucis schools and Grace Academy. The Jan. 31is for students and parents from Bethel, Blowing Rock, Hardin Park, Mabel and Two Rivers schools. However, parents unable to attend on their scheduled night can attend the other meeting. Home-school students and their parents or guardians can attend either night. Parent Nights will help current eighth-graders and their parents learn about registration and scheduling, as well as opportunities and expectations at WHS.
Jan. 31
EIGHTH-GRADE PARENT NIGHTS: Watauga High School will host “Parent Nights” for current eighth-graders and their parents in the WHS auditorium from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31. All eighth-graders planning to enter WHS in the 2012-13 school year, along with their parents or guardians, are expected to attend on their school’s assigned night. The Jan. 31 meeting is for students and parents from Bethel, Blowing Rock, Hardin Park, Mabel and Two Rivers schools.
Feb. 1
VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION AT ALFA: The AIDS Leadership Foothills-area will hold a volunteer orientation from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at Catawba Valley Medical Center in AHEC classroom 105. A light dinner and refreshments will be available. Participants in the two-hour orientation will learn the basic facts of HIV/AIDS, how to get involved in the numerous volunteer opportunities, the psychosocial issues surrounding the illness and how stigma affects those who are living with the virus. ALFA is an AIDS service organization in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Lincoln, Watauga and Wilkes counties. For more information about the ALFA volunteer program, or to register for the orientation, contact Linda H. Sheehan at 322-1447, ext. 231, or at (alfavol@alfainfo.org) or http://www.alfainfo.org .
The RYOANJI DUO: comprised of saxophonist Frank Bongiorno and guitarist Robert Nathanson will perform Feb. 1 at Appalachian State University. The 8 p.m. recital will be held in Broyhill Music Center’s Recital Hall. Admission is free. Frequently invited to perform at saxophone, guitar and composer conferences, the duo has also toured throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.
WATAUGA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET: will be accepting applications for membership for 2012 beginning Feb. 1. For more information, call (828)-355-4918 or email (info@wataugacountyfarmersmarket.org)
Feb. 3
OPEN HOUSE: The National Committee for the New River will hold an open house at its new office in Ashe County from 4 to 6 p.m. Feb. 3. The location is 1 North Jefferson Ave, Suite D, West Jefferson.
Feb. 4
MICROCHIP CLINIC FOR PETS: Microchipping is the process of embedding a tiny identification microchip under a pet's skin, which can be scanned and read at shelter facilities to identify the pet's owner. Saturday microchip clinics are routinely held at the Animal Medical Center of Boone, 1582 Old 421 South, from 11:30 am until noon. The $25 microchip fee benefits the Watauga Humane Society. Proof of current rabies vaccination is required. The next microchip clinic will be held on Saturday, Feb. 4. For more information, call the Watauga Humane Society at (828) 264-7865, email (adopt@wataugahumanesociety.org) or visit http://www.wataugahumanesociety.org .
Feb. 7
“A MUSICAL POTPOURRI”: will be presented by the faculty from the ASU Hayes School of Music at 8 p.m. Feb. 7 in Broyhill Music Center’s Rosen Concert Hall at Appalachian State University. Admission is free. A variety of classical and contemporary works for vocalists and instrumentalists will be performed.
INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE BEGINS: The AARP Tax-Aide Program will again offer free tax preparation for seniors, as well as low and middle income taxpayers. Electronic filing (E-file) is available. To be eligible, you should not have any of the following types of income: rental, partnership, business requiring Schedule C, royalties, and sale of home or business. If your tax return is relatively complex you will be advised to seek professional tax assistance. Federal and North Carolina returns will be filed, but no out-of-state returns will be completed. The Tax-Aide Program will run from Feb.7 to April 17. Counselors will be at the Lois E. Harrill Center on Tuesdays and at the Western Watauga Community Center in Cove Creek on Mondays. Call for an appointment and for information about documents to bring with you: Harrill Center, 265-8090; Western Watauga Center, 297-5195. An appointment is required.
Feb. 11
HUNGRY HEARTS ART AUCTION: sponsored by F.A.R.M. Cafe will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Feb. 11 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Boone. All proceeds from the Hungry Hearts Art Auction will benefit the nonprofit restaurant. The auction includes a combination silent and live auction. Cost is $5 to participate. Cullie Tarleton of Blowing Rock will lead the live auction beginning at 6:20 p.m. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and beverages will be available for purchase. For more information, call Tracey Thompson at (828) 963-6511, ext. 243. For more information about the cafe, visit http://www.farmcafe.org .
Feb. 12
THE BLOWING ROCK HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The Blowing Rock Historical Society will host its Winter Pot Luck Supper and Program at the Blowing Rock American Legion Hall on Wallingford Street on Sunday, Feb. 12. Gathering and refreshments begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by a potluck supper at 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., guest speaker Bruce E. Stewart will share his thoughts on his book, “Prohibitionists: The Battle Over Alcohol in Southern Appalachia.” Stewart will have copies of his book for sale and will be glad to autograph them. Those attending should bring their favorite dish (casserole, salad, dessert, etc.) with serving utensils. Coffee and water will be provided. RSVP to Ginny Stevens at (828) 295-3021 or Priscilla Popper at (828) 295-0000 by Feb. 8. The event is free.
Feb. 16
WOODY DURHAM: who served as the “Voice of the Tarheels” for 40 years, will speak at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum on Thursday, Feb. 16. The 12-time North Carolina Sportscaster of the Year is much beloved by UNC alumni and fans. Durham’s talk, titled “Stories Along the Way,” will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the museum’s Community Meeting Room. Tickets are $20 per person and include “tailgating,” refreshments, beverages and fellowship. Seating is limited. For more information, call BRAHM at (828) 295-9099, ext. 3001.
SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE: The deadline for high school senior and college students from the Blowing Rock area to apply for Blowing Rock Community Foundation scholarships is Feb. 16. Students attending community college, technical school, two/four year colleges and universities who have lived in the Blowing Rock School District and attended Watauga High School for a minimum of two years are eligible. Applications are available at the Guidance Office at Watauga High School, at Blowing Rock Town Hall, or online at http://www.blowingrockcf.org . Interviews will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, March 7 and 8, at the Blowing Rock Town Hall.
POLAR PLUNGE FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS: ASU will host the 14th Annual Polar Plunge Feb. 16 at the campus duck pond to support the Special Olympics athletes of Watauga County. The event will begin at 4 p.m., immediately following registration at 3 p.m. To those interested in participating, a minimum age of 16 is required. To participate in the plunge individually, there is a $25 entry fee. For groups of five or more, the fee is $20 per jumper. Prizes will be awarded to the most extreme costume for male and female jumper, top fundraising group and fundraising individual. All those who participate will receive a Polar Plunge beach towel. Last year, 200 participants joined in the Polar Plunge raising $8,000 for the Watauga County athletes. With last year’s total included, the total amount raised in this event’s 13-year history is more than $93,000. For information on how to register for the event or how to make a donation, contact Keron Poteat, Watauga County Special Olympics coordinator, at (828) 264-9511 or (keron.poteat@watgov.org)
DOG OBEDIENCE CLASSES: Vanessa Van Valin of Dog’s Best Friend Training, will be teaching a basic dog obedience class using the clicker training technique this winter. She will be conducting a five-week program from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings, Feb. 16 and 23 and March 1, 8 and 15. Cost of class is $150. Classes will be held in the Watauga Humane Society’s Community Room, and a portion of the proceeds benefits the animals at the Watauga Humane Society. For further information, or to reserve a place in class, contact Van Valin at (828) 964-8885.
Feb. 17
DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR MASTER GARDENER’S CLASS: The 2012 Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program is now accepting applications. Classes will meet weekly from 1 to 4:30 p.m. beginning on Wednesday, March 7, and continuing through May. Applications can be picked up at the Watauga Cooperative Extension Center located at 971 West King St. in Boone, or downloaded at http://wataugaces.blogspot.com 2012/01/become-extension-master-gardener.html. Applications must be received by Feb. 17. The course fee is $ 125 and includes a comprehensive training manual and additional materials throughout the course. Two reduced-fee scholarships are also available to qualifying individuals. No gardening experience is necessary to participate in the program. For more information,contact Meghan Baker at meghan_baker@ncsu.edu or (828) 264-3061.
Feb. 18
WORKSHOP ON BRAZIL: The Office International Education and Development at ASU is offering a workshop for educators on Brazilian Culture to initiate an annual international education professional development opportunity for K-12 educators in our region. "Living Brazil: The Impact of the World Cup and Related Contemporary Issues" will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, on campus. The workshop fee is $15. For more information and to register, visit http://international.appstate.edu _workshop. Registration deadline is Feb. 11.
Feb. 20
FREE BUSINESS WORKSHOP: The Watauga Small Business will host a free workshop on using Google Apps for Business and Google Adwords from 10 a.m. to noon on Feb. 20 at the Appalachian Enterprise Center, 130 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone. Enoch Moeller, Google's operations manager in Lenoir, will be the speaker. For more information, call Evelyn Asher at 719-7227.