With half of our residences sold or under contract, The Fitzgerald is the best-selling luxury community in Asheville. With breathtaking views, luxury appointments and special membership privileges to the full list of amenities at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa, Fitzgerald owners want for nothing. Well, there is one thing.

We’ve heard our homeowners say they’d like more neighbors. More great people added to the community. And more individuals to add to the lifestyle. Since our goal is always to enhance our homeowners’ experience, we have selected four featured residences that come with a New Neighbor Offer that will allow new homeowners to fully experience The Fitzgerald lifestyle as only Grove Park Inn can present it. We felt it was the neighborly thing to do.

We hope 2012 will be the Year of the Neighbor and we hope to welcome you to our premier neighborhood. We invite you to visit the interactive floorplan to discover the featured residences. The New Neighbor Offer is available through June 30, 2012 only and financing is available. Call us at 828.251.1140 or reply to this e-mail today and one of our on-site real estate agents will give you all the details.

The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa is bringing in a slew of big-name performers for its winter season. Rather than just one performer at a time, the Grove Park Inn is pulling out all the stops for three full weekends of jazz, big band and Celtic music.

“Big Band and Swing Dance” weekend, Jan. 20-22, will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the United Service Organization (USO). The performance will feature NC Revelers Orchestra and the USO Liberty Bells. The Glenn Miller Orchestra will be there too, but tickets are sold out. Now’s the time to sign up for the rest of the weekend.

“All that Jazz” weekend, Jan. 27-29, will feature several top-notch performers, including The John Pizzarelli Quartet, Jessica Molaskey & Aaron Weinstein Trio and the Lenore Raphael Duo featuring Herman Burney. The New Yorker called Pizzarelli, his father Bucky and his wife Jessica Molaskey “the von Trapps on martinis” and publications from the LA Times to the San Francisco Chronicle continue to sing his praises.

“Celtic Adventure” weekend, Feb. 3-5, will feature Gaelic Storm (of Titanic fame), McPeake and Colin Grant-Adams. The concerts will celebrate the Scotish-Irish heritage of Western North Carolina with concerts at the Grove Park Inn’s grand ballroom.

See www.groveparkinn.com for the full schedule and pricing.

Saturday: Fletcher at 10:30 a.m. (along U.S. 25, 687-0751, visit www.fletcherparks.org), Marshall at noon (townofmarshall.org), Sylvaat 3 p.m.Saluda at 2 p.m., Newland at 6 p.m., Dec. 14: Tryon at 5 p.m.

Season long events

Christmas at Biltmore, through Jan. 1, Biltmore Estate. House and grounds decorated for the season. Candlelight Christmas Evenings, offering evening candlelight tours of Biltmore House, take place through Dec. 31. Visits with Santa on Saturdays through Dec. 18 plus the Friday after Thanksgiving. Local choirs and small musical ensembles stationed in the Winter Garden will perform music of the season as guests enter Biltmore House. String quartets and other musicians will perform throughout the house as guests wander among the decorated rooms. 877-BILTMORE. www.biltmore.com.

19th Century Carolina Christmas, through Jan. 4. Smith-McDowell House, at 283 Victoria Road, Asheville, is decked in Victorian holiday decor. Candlelight tours available by reservation for groups. $10 for adults, $6 for college students, $5 for ages 8-18. Call 253-9231 or visit www.wnchistory.org.

Holidays for Hospice, through Dec. 27. Asheville Mall hosts the CarePartners Garden of Memories, a quilt-themed contemplative space with books listing names of those remembered and honored through Memorial Ornaments. Outside Dillard”s Men’s Store and Hallmark. For details on ornaments, visit www.carepartnersfoundation.org. Call 277-4815.

“The Polar Express,” through Dec. 24, Bryson City. Read along with t he story “The Polar Express” on Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Meet Santa, enjoy caroling, hot cocoa and a treat. Times and dates vary. Tickets start at $39 for adults, $26 for ages 2-12. Visit www.gsmr.com or call 800-872-4681.

National Gingerbread House Competition, on display through Jan. 1. The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa hosts its 19th annual National Gingerbread House Competition. Community viewing Monday-Thursday only. At 290 Macon Ave., Asheville. Call 800-438-0050, ext. 1281.

“Stories of Gingerbread” guided tours, through Jan. 1. Go behind the scenes and learn about entries in the Grove Park Inn’s gingerbread competition. Hourlong tours at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. Adults $12, children 12 and younger $6. Reservations required; call 800-438-5800.

Holiday Fest, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., through Dec. 24, at Tom Sawyer’s Christmas Tree Farm and Elf Village, Glenville/Cashiers. Free. Visit www.tomsawyerchristmastreefarm.com.

Dec. 9-15

“Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol,” through Dec. 24, Asheville Masonic Temple, 80 Broadway St., Asheville. Montford Park Players’ 35th annual production. Performances at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Dec. 8 and 15 performances are “pay what we’re worth nights,” where patrons see the show then decide what to pay. Call 254-5146 or visit www.montfordparkplayers.org.

“Return to Bethlehem,” Friday-Sunday, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Road, Asheville. Takes you through the experience of the Bethlehem marketplace as it might have appeared during Christ’s birth. Donations requested. Call 298-7647.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” Friday-Sunday, Brevard Little Theater. Performances at 8 p.m. Friday, and 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Adults $16, students $10. Call 884-2587 or visit www.brevardlittletheatre.com.

Hendersonville Children’s Choir concert, 6:30 p.m. Friday. At Covenant Presbyterian Church. Adults $5, students $2.50. Call 696-4968.

Christmas Candlelight Stroll, 6-9 p.m. Friday, downtown Weaverville. Luminaries, entertainment, carriage rides, refreshments and Santa. Visit www.visitweaverville.com.

Appalachian Christmas Celebration,Friday-Sunday Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center. Performances by Lake Junaluska Singers on Friday-Saturday, and concert by David Holt at 8 p.m. Saturday. Craft show on Saturday. Worship service is Sunday. Visit www.lakejunaluska.com/christmas or call 800-222-4930.

Annie Moses Band Christmas Show, 7:30 p.m. Friday. At Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin. Adults $20, students $10. Call 273-4615 or visit www.greatmountainmusic.com.

Asheville Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Dec, Diana Wortham Theatre, Pack Place, downtown Asheville. Call 257-4530 or visit www.dwtheatre.org or www.ashevilleballet.com.

Dillsboro Festival of Lights and Luminaries, Friday-Saturday, downtown Dillsboro. Live music, carolers, holiday treats and Santa from 5-8 p.m. Free. Call 800-962-1911 or visit www.visitdillsboro.org.

Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Saturday, “A Carolina Christmas” concert at Blue Ridge Conference Hall. Adults $30, students $5. Visit www.hendersonvillesymphony.org.

Bullington Center open house and holiday sale, 1-4 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Sale includes premium amaryllis, locally crafted evergreen sprays and wreaths, decorations and other gifts. Henderson County 4-H will sell crafts and Operation Toasty Toes will sell knitted items. Refreshments. At 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville. Call 698-6104.

Guitarists Ed Gerhard and Bill Mize 18th annual Christmas concert, 8 p.m. Friday, Jubilee!, 46 Wall St., Asheville. $20. Tickets available at Jubilee! or Malaprop’s on Haywood Street. 252-5355.

Annual holiday bazaar, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec Madison County Arts Council, 90 S. Main St., Marshall. Paintings, pottery, jewelry, botanicals, books, more. Free cider and raffle. 649-1301, www.madisoncountyarts. com.

Just Flute: Kate Steinbeck “Alone, Dancing,” 6-7 p.m. Saturday, Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Road (next to Grove Park Inn), Asheville. Free.

Santa on the Chimney 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Chimney Rock Park. Santa practices on 315-foot Chimney Rock. Regular admission.www.chimneyrockpark.com.

Holiday Origami Party for Kids, 1-3 p.m. Saturday. North Asheville Library hosts a drop-in party. Make an origami ornament to take home. Free for all ages. Call 250-4752 or email northasheville.library@buncombecounty.org.

Flat Rock Tailgate Christmas Market, 2-5 p.m. Saturday, in front of Hubba Hubba Smokehouse, Flat Rock. Call 697-7719.

Asheville:

There’s a reason Asheville always tops many “best places to retire” lists, say advisers: It’s got some of the best hiking in the nation, a thriving art scene that runs the gamut from folk to contemporary and roughly 500 restaurants. What’s more, Asheville is retiree-centric, and home to the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement, which serves as a central meeting place for area retirees and offers more than 250 classes each year on everything from knitting to Buddhist philosophy.

“Asheville has got a cosmopolitan feel, but it’s still a small town,” says Catherine Frank, the executive director of the center. “That’s one of the things retirees really like — there’s a lot to do but you don’t have big city hassles like parking problems.” Those cosmopolitan perks include three nearby universities the University of North Carolina at Asheville, Warren Wilson and Western Carolina University dozens of art galleries and art classes devoted to everything from needlepoint to pottery to contemporary art, she says. One drawback: Asheville’s tiny airport offers few direct flights to many U.S. cities (most of the time you have to connect through Atlanta, Charlotte or New York), and those that are direct tend to be pricey.

Come Home to A Mountain Getaway – View Full Article

“Our presence was well received by The Grove Park Inn’s guests, and we look forward to launching our unique variety of outdoor activity programs in the near future,” NOC Asheville General Manager Ross Ryan said. “We’re delighted that NOC’s products and services are adding value and scope to the already rich guest experience.”

The shop’s retail space provides quality outdoor gear, fine casual apparel and local souvenirs for local Asheville residents, as well guests of The Grove Park Inn. Guests can shop men’s, women’s and children’s apparel, footwear and accessories from leading outdoor brands. NOC provides an on-site activity concierge for hotel guests.

A community grand opening event is scheduled for NOC Asheville at The Grove Park Inn in Spring 2012. www.noc.com or www.groveparkinn.com

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The forested hills rolled to misty gray mountains. I felt a release as I looked into the view. This is why I travel. The feeling, and on this trip, Christmas shopping.

Asheville is an eclectic town surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. My husband and I had given each other an early Christmas gift — time away for romance and relaxation before the rush of holidays. We planned to sleep late, sample farm-to-table fare and walk the winding streets to discover local art and find unique Christmas gifts for our family. As a bonus, we found local craft-brews that won Asheville the title of BeerCity USA for the third year in a row.

Asheville is an art-lover’s town, known for the fine and the cutting edge. During our rambles, we found pieces from local artists in a range of prices and media, something for everyone. Most galleries ship, so all we had to carry back were memories.

Even a week wasn’t long enough to see everything, but we found high points in the Grove Park Inn, River Arts District, historic downtown and Biltmore Village.

Grove Park Inn

The stone walls of the historic Grove Park Inn, built in 1912, rise amid hundred-foot-tall trees on a hill north of downtown. The inn experience itself is enough for many guests, who come to be coddled and enjoy the hotel’s cafés and restaurants, shops, golf course, gym and exceptional spa.

The hotel is also home to two special galleries. At Gallery of the Mountains, I couldn’t decide where to look first — green pottery bowls, painted silks or brown clay cats — until I saw Amolia Willowsong’s exquisite necklaces and earrings, gemstones held in a shimmering weave of tiny glass beads studded with pearls.

Next door, we walked past whirling Wind Forest sculptures to get to the Grovewood Gallery. Inside, we found gift heaven — 9,000 square feet of North Carolina’s finest art and craft. My husband claimed a carved hardwood rocker with spokes that curved to support the back, created by Joe Godfrey, a retired surgeon who makes the rockers one at a time and sells them almost exclusively through the gallery.

River Arts District

The River Arts District is a former industrial area now populated by artist studios. Some are open daily, many are open on Fridays and Saturdays. The Odyssey Center on Clingman Avenue houses art and studios of more than two dozen ceramic artists, including Asheville resident Silvia Sabaini. The emotions on the faces of her sculpted people reflected life’s mix of joy and concern.

In The Wedge building on Roberts Street, we found the only piece I bought for myself, a singing bowl thrown by potter Marston Blow. The first singing bowls were made of metal by Tibetan monks who used them in meditation. Mine is ceramic, adorned with sculpted trees. The hidden treasure is the bowl’s voice. Run a wooden rod around the rim, and a rich pure tone swirls up, vibrating through the chest and head until thought is tuned to tone.

Downtown Asheville

Walk any downtown street and you’ll find distinctive options. For a more concentrated experience, the Grove Arcade on Battery Park Avenue showcases a world of art in a single block. Artists sell bright paintings, carved wooden bowls, whimsical pillows and handmade jewelry from street-side stalls.

Inside, Mountain Made Gallery carries the work of more than 80 North Carolina artisans. Other galleries offer jewelry, paintings, specialty yarns and pottery.

Next to the Fine Arts Theatre on Biltmore Avenue, Blue Spiral 1 gallery is three floors and 15,000 square feet of Southeastern fine art and craft. On our visit, a singular basket blossomed gray and gleaming, woven of reed and stainless steel cable. It was hard not to touch Matt Moulthrop’s red maple bowls with burnished markings telling the story of life. And on one wall hung Olena Nebuchadnezzar’s art quilt of an autumn forest scene, stitched in the richness of a Renaissance painting.

Biltmore Village

We spent a few nights on the south side of town at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, where we were spoiled by caring service and a sumptuous room with a large spa tub big enough to share.

Nearby we found two notable galleries. New Morning Gallery on Boston Street displays decorative home arts with whimsical and nature themes — chests with painted scenes of bluebirds and forests, wrought iron headboards with a tree-twig design, colorful folk-art paintings and more.

Bellagio on Biltmore Plaza specializes in art to wear. I’m talking about spectacular, make-an-entrance women’s clothes and accessories. I loved the flowing jackets and pants, but my favorites were the colorful raincoats, too much fun to wait for rain.

Art to eat

Asheville is known for creative dining. We celebrated our anniversary at a farm-to-table restaurant, table Asheville, for fine dining with a sense of culinary adventure. Every mouthful of my salad delivered a smoky fruity bite of ripe peach, smoked duck and piquant greens, my Carolina sea bass was tart and sweet with currants vinette, and experienced staff suggested good wine pairings from the diverse list. To top it off, molten chocolate cake inspired sweet dreams.

If you’ve ever wanted to visit “a sacred space for chocophiles,” French Broad Chocolate Lounge on South Lexington Avenue is the place to go. Owner and chocolatier Jael Rattigan and her staff make everything they serve except the ice cream and beer. Fresh French-press coffee, flourless chocolate cake, chocolate truffle torte, brownies and to-die-for chocolate truffles in flavors such as pomegranate ginger, canela picante of bittersweet chocolate spiced with cayenne and cinnamon, and lavender and honey. All organic, small-batch, made with local ingredients and love. Lucky for out-of-town chocophiles the Lounge ships in warm-weather packs.

We left Asheville wanting to come back. Who knew Christmas shopping could be so much fun?

By Chef Troy Gagliardo | Photography by Joe Rauzi and courtesy of Grove Park Inn

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When we think of competitive sports, the obvious ones come to mind: football, baseball or NASCAR. As a chef for 15 years, I never thought of gingerbread-house-making as a sport, much less competitive. Well, I am here to say in all honesty, “Boy, was I wrong.”

I caught wind that the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa was hosting its annual Gingerbread 101 workshop recently, so I decided to head up the mountain to Asheville to get a little insight.

With the resort only a couple of hours away, I decided to make an overnight trip out of it and take the family. The folks at the Grove Park Inn were kind enough to put us up for the night in order to be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for our morning workshop.

The Grove Park Inn will host its 19th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition this November – the entry deadline is Nov. 7. Competition judging takes place on Nov. 14 and all of the entries (300 are expected) will be on display from Nov. 16 to Jan. 1 at the resort.

Before the workshop, I was thinking I might be submitting an entry myself. I mean really, how hard could it be to build a house out of gingerbread? I am a chef, I cook all the time…piece of cake (well, gingerbread).

The gingerbread competition isn’t just for bragging rights (winners are named in different age groups and categories). It also rewards the competitors with cash, prizes, awards and a featured spot on ABC’s “Good Morning America” on the morning of Dec. 23.

Serious competitors

As I sat quietly in my seat before the workshop, I was introduced to last year’s third-place winner, Linda Carney, and got the feeling right off that she is all business – which made me a little nervous.

“Great to meet you. Will you be entering the competition this year?” Linda asked. I stumbled for words, a little taken aback by the forwardness of her question. Finally, I stuttered, “I am – considering it.”

Soon after, I met Executive Chef Denny Trantham. He was also a little intimidating, standing there in his tall French-style chef’s hat and a perfectly pressed bleached-white chef jacket.

Chef Denny’s formidability subsided when he said hello with his southern Appalachian accent. Raised in Haywood County, just west of Asheville, Chef Denny knows local food and works closely with local farmers to bring in the freshest local ingredients possible to the resort.

“This is as fierce as any competition I have ever seen, even more so than any UFC fight. These folks aren’t here to just make a pretty house. They want to be the best and win,” explains Chef Denny, who is also one of the judges. “Some of the spouses of the competitors stake out the lobby and watch as the other competitors enter the resort with their gingerbread houses. They report back with ideas of detail and what the competition looks like.”

With all that going on, he adds: “When the winners are announced, I take off my chef whites and get out of Dodge.”

Now was my chance: I had an idea for a house for the competition and I could run it by the “man” himself. Mustering up the courage after a brief hello, I made my move and described my concept. Without completely giving my idea away, I’ll just give a hint and say it’s a sports structure in its off season, with an entirely different sports activity taking place.

Chef Denny listened carefully as I described my idea; he smiled and politely explained that as a judge, he couldn’t offer any recommendations to contestants. He did, however, tell me to pay close attention to the chefs conducting the workshop, as they had prepared a lesson in the proper way to construct a sturdy gingerbread house.

As the room started to fill up, folks made their way to their seats. The stage was flanked by two huge projection screens, where the demonstrations would take place. A long table next to the stage was decorated with hundreds of tools used in gingerbread making. To me, it looked more like a booth at hardware convention.

The chef opened the class with, “Welcome to the cult. None of you will leave this room the same person.”

“What have I gotten myself into?” I asked myself, out loud enough for the person in front of me to turn slightly towards me.

Anybody who really knows me knows that the classroom atmosphere is not my thing … at all. It certainly wasn’t my ideal way of spending an early Saturday morning, but I have to say I was immediately sucked in to the fascination with this craft.

The chefs of Grove Park Inn’s three restaurants taught the class with lots of knowledge, energy and humor, sharing stories from competitions past. One first-timer to the competition worked months on her house and drove hundreds of miles to get there, they recalled. When she arrived, a Grove Park chef approached to help carry her house to the entry area. She insisted on bringing it in herself. As she entered the lobby, a veteran competitor passed her with a perfectly detailed house. The newcomer turned around, put the house back in her car and drove off, never to be seen again.

We learned the proper way to make gingerbread dough from scratch, how to make a glass window out of cracked hard candy, the importance of making templates with ultimate precision and that royal icing (a mixture of egg whites and powdered suger) is the glue that holds it all together.

Much of the lesson was dedicated to the strength of the structure. Using extra wall pieces positioned in the inside corners of the wall before putting the roof on will make the overall structure more sturdy for travel and longtime display. Some of the veteran contestants claim that they still have houses displayed in their homes from as long as ten years ago.

Everything has to be edible, except the two-foot by two-foot base that is required for the gingerbread house to be constructed on. “We have had some folks think that this is our first trip to the ball, and try to use non-edible material to keep their house together during construction and travel. For the record, not only does glue not taste good, it doesn’t look like royal icing either,” declares Chef Denny.

“Some folks even went as far as using wooden dolls inside the structure to make the house secure during travel, but we always find them,” he adds.

I could see in Chef Denny’s eyes that my idea for a house is a good one. However, am I ready for the commitment? Am I ready to adopt the same competitive spirit as a winning quarterback or NASCAR champion?

The instructors taught us: “Be patient, be creative and be ready for a real competition.” Maybe I’ll stake out the competition this year and wait to build my gingerbread idea next year.

Chef Troy Gagliardo is a local television personality, author, restaurateur, businessman and blogger for SouthParkMagazine.com. He lives in the Lake Norman area with his wife and two daughters.

The Grove Park Inn

The inn was built in 1912 by pharmaceutical guru Edwin Grove and was constructed in exactly 364 days. It took several hundred workers to complete the resort. The workers lived on the grounds in a huge circus-size tent and worked for the meager salary of one dollar a day, six days a week.

Two additions followed in 1983 and 1988; the spa was added in 2001 and currently ranks as the sixth-highest-rated spa in the U.S. and 13th overall in the world.

More information:

Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa

290 Macon Ave., Asheville.

800-438-5800 

www.groveparkinn.com

RECIPE: Royal Icing

Want to try your own gingerbread creation? This is the glue to hold it together, courtesy of Chef Troy.

Basic Royal Icing

2 large egg whites

2 2/3 cups powdered sugar

Mix together the egg whites with half of the sugar until smooth. Add the remaining sugar. Using a stand-up mixer or electric mixer, combine on high speed until stiff peaks form. It should have the texture of toothpaste. Store covered at room temperature while assembling.

National Gingerbread House Competition

Much like the historic resort hotel that hosts the event, the gingerbread houses competing in the National Gingerbread House Competition are architecturally stunning. And visiting the competition display is a sure way to get into the holiday spirit.

Each year, artists from around the country bring their confectionery masterpieces to compete for the top prize. Last year’s competition included a gingerbread Noah’s ark, rocking horse, tree house and church.

And this year’s competition brings a new twist: dog-friendly edible houses. The Grover “Bark” Inn Gingerbread Doghouse Competition & Display takes place December 4-7 and benefits local animal charities. The criteria for the gingerbread doghouses are the same as the National Gingerbread House Competition, but all materials must be dog-edible. Competitors must avoid ingredients harmful to dogs, including chocolate, raisins and walnuts.

The non-canine confectionery and architectural wonders will be on display from Nov. 16, through January 1, The public is invited to view the displays any Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Resort Guests may view the display at anytime.

The National Gingerbread House Competition also conducts “Stories of Gingerbread” tours, which take guests behind the scenes of this popular holiday event to learn about the construction of the intricate homes.

This holiday season marks the 19th year for the popular contest, which has gained national recognition since The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa held the first competition back in 1993.

A panel will judge the entries across four categories: Adult (18 and older), Teen (13-17), Youth (9-12) and Child (5-8). Entries are judged on overall appearance, originality/creativity, difficulty, precision and consistency of theme. Except for the base, the entries must be constructed entirely of edible materials.

ABC’s “Good Morning America” has been hosting winners of the National Gingerbread House Competition since 1998, and the Food Network and the Travel Channel have also featured the competition. Several of this year’s entries will be featured on “Good Morning America” on Dec. 23. – Christopher Lux

Read more: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/10/20/2708285/delicious-designs.html#ixzz1bLbVZZ8l

RUNNING – RACES

PARSEC PRIZE 5K: Inaugural race starts at 8 a.m. Oct. 15 at Parsec Financial, 6 Wall St., Asheville. Choose from non-profits to benefit: Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, Asheville Symphony, Industries for the Blind, and the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Buncombe County. $25 by Oct. 10, $30 race day. Email Ashley Woodring at awoodring@parsecfinancial.com, call 255-0271.www.parsecfinancial.com.

AMAZING RACE 3K: Second annual obstacle course race for children and their parents starts at 9 a.m. Oct. 15 at Enka High School, 475 Enka Lake Road. Entry fee is $20 for the 3K and $20 for both parent and child in the partner race. Visit www.bcsf.net or call 232-4190.

BURNSVILLE TOWN SQUARE SCAMPER 5K: The annual 5K race starts at the Town Square in Burnsville Oct. 15 to benefit Yancey County Schools Foundation. Entry fee is $25, students $15. Visitwww.ycsfoundation.org.

GREAT PUMPKIN MOUNTAIN CHALLENGE: Inaugural event is a hike, walk or run on scenic mountain property starting at 9 a.m. Oct. 15 to raise funds for The Lord’s Acre, Fairview’s Garden for Hunger. Visit www.thelordsacre.org.

POUR LE PINK 5K: Inaugural Pour le Pink, a 3.1 mile fun Walk/Run to support local breast health and women’s services, starting at 8 a .m. Oct. 15 at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. $20 for adults before Friday, Sept. 30, $30 after. Child rate is $5. Visithttp://highlandscashiershospital.com.

RUN FOR THE HORSES 5K: Fifth annual 5K and 1-Mile Fun Walk and Dog Parade starts at 2 p.m. Oct. 16 at 35 Woodfin St., Asheville. Dog Parade and vendors, pet adoptions, crafts, miniature horse, music. $20 through Oct. 13, $25 after. Visit www.hopeforhorses.org.

THOMAS WOLFE 8K: Presented by Mission Sports Medicine, starts at 3 p.m. Oct. 22, followed by pizza and beer celebration with live band. Entry fee is $30, $35 on race day. Register at www.imathlete.com or visit www.thomaswolfe8k.com.

ROCK THE QUARRY: Four-mile trail challenge starts at 9 a.m. Oct. 22 at Grove Stone Quarry in Black Mountain. $25 at www.active.com.

BLACK MOUNTAIN RUNNING CO. 5K: Free 5K as part of celebration of new Black Mountain Running Co. running shop, 106 W. State St. 5K starts at 9 a.m. Oct. 22 at Black Mountain Primary School Greenway. Call 669-7186 or visitwww.blackmountainrunning.com.

POWER OF PINK: Fifth annual 20-mile relay for five-women teams, Pink 4-mile Run/walk for everyone and Bubble Gum Fun Run/Walk. Fundraiser for breast cancer detection programs in Haywood County. Starts at 8 a.m. Oct. 29 at MedWest Health and Fitness Center, Clyde. $200 per relay team by Oct. 26, $25 for Pink 4-Miler by Oct. 21, $10 for Fun Run. Call 400-5868 or visit www.medwesthealth.org.

TAILS AND TRAILS 5K: For people and their well-mannered dogs will be Nov. 19 at the Buncombe County Sports Park. Human-only 5K starts at 8:30 a.m. and Run/Walk 5K for dogs and their humans starts at 10 a.m. Proceeds to benefit Asheville Humane Society and the Buncombe County Sports Park. $20 per race before Nov. 9, $25 after, or $30 for both races before Nov. 9, $35 after. Call 250-4260.

EARTH FARE TURKEY TROT 5K: Race starts at 9 a.m. Thanksgiving Day at Carrier Park, Amboy Road. $25 online at www.setupevents.com through Nov. 21. Visit www.jusrunning.com.

RUNNING CLUBS

ASHEVILLE TRACK CLUB: Promotes and support the running communities of Western North Carolina by providing information, education, training, social and sporting events for competitive and non-competitive runners. Visit www.ashevilletrackclub.org.

FOUR SEASONS RUNNING CLUB: Official running club of Hendersonville and Henderson County. Call 388-3200 or e-mailfourseasonsrunningclub@gmail.com.

GIRLS ON THE RUN of WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA:Registration now open for the program that teaches girls in third-eighth grade to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles and prepares them to participate in a 5K run at the end of the 12-week, 24-lesson program. Call Audrey McElwain at 713-4290, visit www.gotrwnc.org or e-mail at audrey.mcelwain@girlsontherun.org.

JUS’ RUNNING: Groups meet for various levels of road and trail runs and track workouts at the Jus’ Running store, 523 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. Call 252-7867, e-mail jusrun@bellsouth.net or visitwww.jusrunning.com.

DIAMOND BRAND RUNNING GROUPS: Meets at 6 p.m. every Wednesday. Runs are 3-6 miles at an 8-10 minute pace. All running levels welcome. Contact mmcbride@diamondbrand.com.

FOOTRX RUN: Meets at 8 a.m. Saturdays at the south exit of Hendersonville Road and the Blue Ridge Parkway. All ages and abilities welcome. Call Chuck Martin at 687-3476.

SWAIN COUNTY TRAIL RUNNERS: Long-run group meets 8 a.m. Saturdays at the Deep Creek Trailhead parking area in Bryson City. All runs are on trails in the Smokies or Tsali Recreation Area. All distances, paces, ages welcome. Call 399-0989, 488-6769 or e-mailwdtreern@yahoo.com.

MULTISPORT/ SWIMMING/ ON THE WATER

ASHEVILLE MASTERS SWIMMING: Organized workouts, 5:45-7:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at the Asheville School, and at 7:30-9 a.m. Saturdays at Warren Wilson College. Coached workouts 5:45-7:15 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday at WWC. Competitive, fitness and triathlon swimmers welcome for training, stroke work and socializing. More at www.ashevillemasters.com.

SWIM CLINICS: All clinics are at the Warren Wilson College pool in Swannanoa. For more, call 771-3005.

HIKING/WALKING

ASHEVILLE AMBLERS WALKING CLUB: Club features free, monthly 5K or 10K (6.2-mile) noncompetitive walks in Asheville, Black Mountain and Hendersonville. Associated with American Volkssport Association. Visit www.amblers.homestead.com or call 687-2777.

ASHEVILLE HIKING MEET-UP GROUP: Social and hiking club made up of all ages and professions. Hikes take place Saturdays and Sundays. Free. Visit www.meetup.com/ashevillehiking.

? Mount Pisgah Hike: Meet at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, at Harris Teeter on U.S. 25 to carpool to Mt. Pisgah. Registration required by visiting website.

ASHEVILLE YMCA WALKING CLUB: Meets noon Tuesdays at the YMCA on Woodfin Street. Open to everyone. Call 210-9622.

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY: The most-visited unit of the National Park Service, stretching 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains in Cherokee. Call 298-0398 for road and weather conditions or visit www.nps.gov/blri.

? Hike of the Week: “Mighty Oaks on the MST: Parkway rangers will meet at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 14, for an easy, 1-mile walk on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and to discuss red and white oaks. Meet at the Mills River Valley Overlook, Milepost 404.5 on the parkway. Free. Call 298-5330, Ext. 304.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN CLUB: More than 175 hikes a year. Call Stuart English at 883-2447 or visit www.carolinamtnclub.org for schedule of hikes. Hikes are free. Nonmembers should call ahead.

DIAMOND BRAND OUTDOORS: Gary Eblen leads various group walks throughout the year on the trails and in local parks. Call 209-1538 for more information.

GIRLS-ONLY HIKE CLUB: Women-only hike the third Saturday of each month. Registration is required. Call 209-1503 or e-mail Kate Shirey kshirey@diamondbrand.com.

NANTAHALA HIKING CLUB: A hiking/trail maintenance club based in the Franklin-Highlands area. For a schedule of guided hikes, call Kay Coriell at 369-6820 or visit www.nantahalahikingclub.org.

PISGAH HIKERS: Five different hiking groups meet Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in Brevard. Hikes range 3-12 miles. Visithttp://pisgahhikers.squarespace.com.

SOUTHERN APPALACHIANS HIGHLANDS CONSERVANCY:Nonprofit working to conserve the clean water, unique plant and animal habitat, local farmland and recreational treasures of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Visit www.appalachian.org.

SWANNANOA VALLEY MUSEUM: Hosts various hikes, camps and community events throughout the year. At 223 W. State St., Black Mountain. Call 669-9566 for information and to register for events. Programs and activities are available by appointment year-round.

WOODFIN YMCA WALKING CLUB: Meets 9 a.m. Mondays at the bird sanctuary at Beaver Lake, Merrimon Avenue. Open to everyone. Call Lynn at 768-1338 or visit http://ymcawnc.org.

HUNTING/FISHING

CASTING FOR RECOVERY: A support and educational program for breast cancer survivors, now taking applications for two free weekend retreats for women of all ages, in any stage of breast cancer. Learn the art and skill of fly fishing. Retreat date is Oct. 21-23 at Lake Logan. 215-4234 or www.castingforrecovery.org.

FLY-FISHING CLASSES: Rivers Edge Outfitters in Cherokee conducts free fly-fishing classes every Saturday at 10 a.m. For more, call 497-9300.

HCC HUNTER SAFETY COURSES: Haywood Community College’s Natural Resources Division and the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission offer courses 6-9:30 p.m. Nov. 7-9 in rooms 309 and 310 on the HCC campus. Free. Register atwww.ncwildlife.org.

N.C. WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION: State agency regulating hunting, fishing and trapping seasons and rules.For more information, visit www.ncwildlife.org.

WNC FLY FISHING EXPO: Third annual Expo is Nov. 5 and 6 at the WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 5 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 6. Speakers, demos, programs, beer, barbecue, gear manufacturers and sales. Tickets are $10 for adults and free for ages 15 and younger. Visit www.wncflyfishingexpo.com.

CLUBS

FRENCH BROAD RIFLES: Meet for muzzle-loading target shooting at 9 a.m. the second Saturday of each month at the club’s range in Madison County. E-mail hchadw1932@aol.com.

LAND O’ SKY TROUT UNLIMITED: Asheville-based organization of anglers and conservationists dedicated to the protection of trout and their habitat. Visit www.landoskytu.com. Meetings are at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month.

LAND OF THE SKY BASSMASTERS: WNC’s oldest bass club and NC BASS Federation affiliated club meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Bubba Q’s Restaurant across from airport. Serious anglers can build friendships, camaraderie and angling knowledge. For more, call 681-0113.

PIGEON VALLEY BASSMASTERS: New members welcome. Regular meetings are at 7 p.m. the second Monday of each month at Shoney’s Restaurant, at Exit 44 off I-40. For more, call Patty Blanton at 712-2846.

PISGAH CHAPTER OF TROUT UNLIMITED: Hendersonville-based anglers and conservationists with members in Polk, Henderson and Transylvania counties. Visit www.main.nc.us/PCTU.

Clubs/Events

ASHEVILLE ROWING CLUB: A nonprofit athletic and social organization dedicated to promoting health, fitness and fun through rowing. For details, visit www.ashevillerowing.org.

ASHEVILLE TRIATHLON CLUB: For competitive and beginner triathletes. Club provides resources, training, racing and social opportunities. Call Greg Duff at 400-5868.

ASHEVILLE YOUTH ROWING ASSOCIATION: For ages 13-18, a youth rowing program at Lake Julian on Saturdays, Sundays and two afternoons per week. Call Jack Gartner at 230-3901 or visitwww.ashevilleyouthrowing.com.

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS TRIATHLON CLUB: Hayesville-based club for those interested in running, biking and swimming competitions. Races throughout the year. For more information. call Scott Hanna at 389-6982, e-mail tri2000@dnet.net or visitwww.gsmtc.com.

GREEN RIVER ADVENTURES: Saluda-based guide for professional kayaking instruction, inflatable kayaking trips and custom adventure experiences. Call 800-335-1530 or visitwww.greenriveradventures.com.

NANTAHALA OUTDOOR CENTER: Outdoor outfitter, providing whitewater rafting, paddling instruction, adventure travel, group adventure programs, festivals and events, on U.S. 19 W. in the Nantahala Gorge, west of Bryson City. Call 888-905-7238 or visitwww.noc.com.

CYCLING

SWANK 65: The 13 annual Swank 65 Mountain Bike Journey starts at 10 a.m. Nov. 6 at Cove Creek Campground in Pisgah National Forest. Entry fee is $110 through Oct. 7, $120 after. Visitwww.blueridgeadventures.net.

ASHEVILLE BICYCLE RACING CLUB: Promotes amateur bicycle racing in WNC. Members get organized training rides, coaching and financial assistance. www.abrc.net.

ASHEVILLE WOMEN’S CYCLING: All-female cycling club and all-female racing team, Team Prestige Subaru. Promote recreational road and trail cycling among women.www.ashevillewomenscycling.com.

BLUE RIDGE BICYCLE CLUB: Encourages safe and responsible recreational bicycling in WNC. Weekly rides ranging from novice-advanced levels. Rides usually have a designated leaders and cyclists will not be left behind. For more, visitwww.blueridgebicycleclub.org.

PISGAH AREA SORBA: Chapter of the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association, dedicated to improving technical off-road biking programs through advocacy for quality trail systems. Visitwww.pisgahareasorba.org.

TRACK CYCLING CLINICS/TRAINING: Clinics and skills practice, 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays, Carrier Park, Amboy Road, Asheville. Open to all ages. Email mpbikegirl@aol.com. www.mellowdrome.com.

CAROLINA YOUTH MOUNTAIN BIKE LEAGUE: Races for riders in grades K-12, including bike related contests, healthy food, health workshops, professional mountain bikers. Call 230-0985 orwww.cymbl.org. $25 per race of $100 for five-race series. Ages 6 and younger race free. Championship race is Oct. 23 at Falling Creek Camp, Tuxedo.

BRBC TUESDAY MORNING RIDES: The Blue Ridge Bicycle Club holds rides the first Tuesday of the month starting at Fletcher Park. All other Tuesday’s rides start from Liberty Bicycles,1378 Hendersonville Road. Visit www.blueridgebicycleclub.org.

PARKS, CLUBS, & MORE

ASHEVILLE LAWN BOWLING: Meet 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays, Saturdays and 4-6 p.m. Sundays, weather permitting, at Carrier Park green on Amboy Road. Free instruction and the use of club bowls. Call Hans at 684-1815 or Stan at 665-7768.

ASHEVILLE MUSHROOM CLUB: Meets monthly at the WNC Nature Center on Gashes Creek Road in Asheville. Meetings are open to the public. Membership is required to participate in forays. $18 individuals, $25 family. www.ashevillemushroomclub.com.

ASHEVILLE PARKS OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Asheville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts offers many opportunities for outdoor adventure this winter and spring. Fees are listed for Asheville city residents and for non-residents. Call Christen McNamara at 251-4029 or e-mail outdoorprograms@ashevillenc.gov.

ASHEVILLE ZIPLINE CANOPY ADVENTURES: Tours run at 9 and 10:30 a.m. and 12:30, 2 and 4 p.m. daily. The full course takes 2 1/2 hours. Cost is $45-$79 per person. Through Sept. 30, locals can zip for half-price. Call 877-247-5538 or visitwww.ashevilleziplinecanopyadventures.com.

BLUE RIDGE NATURALIST CENTER: Various programs, walks and seminars for the community. At UNC Asheville. Call 251-6198 for more information or to register for programs.

CARL SANDBURG HOME: National park located in Flat Rock. Tours of the home (admission fee), several miles of hiking trails, gardens, descendants of Mrs. Sandburg’s dairy goat herd. Free programs year-round. 693-4178 or www.nps.gov/carl.

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN LAND CONSERVANCY: Hendersonville-based nonprofit dedicated to land preservation. Guided hikes, outreach events and volunteer opportunities. Contact Aimee McGinley, outreach@carolinamountain.org, 697-5777 or visithttp://carolinamountain.org.

CHIMNEY ROCK PARK: North Carolina’s newest state park is 25 miles southeast of Asheville. Hiking trails, guided rock climbing, bird watching, children’s programs. Admission fee. Call 625-9611, 800-277-9611 or visit www.chimneyrockpark.com.

CRADLE OF FORESTRY: Site of the first forestry school in America, founded in 1898. CFC strives to stimulate interest in the relationship between people and forests. On U.S. 276 in Pisgah National Forest. Entry fee is $6 for ages 16 and older, $3 for ages 15 and younger and America the Beautiful and Golden Age pass holders. Visit www.cradleofforestry.com.

DIAMOND BRAND OUTDOORS: Outdoor enthusiasts have opportunity to participate in several types of free instructional clinics and special events. A complete schedule and information can be found at www.diamondbrand.com.

DUPONT STATE FOREST: Miles of multiuse trails, waterfalls and lakes straddling Henderson and Transylvania counties. No admission fee. Visit www.dupontforest.com.

ELISHA MITCHELL AUDUBON SOCIETY: Promotes an awareness and appreciation of nature, to preserve and protect wildlife and natural ecosystems and to encourage responsible environmental stewardship. Offers bird walks, naturalist programs. Visitwww.main.nc.us/emas.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND CONSERVATION ORGANIZATION:Hendersonville-based conservation nonprofit. Guided hikes and community events. Call 692-0385 or visit www.eco-wnc.org.

FLETCHER DISC GOLF: Fletcher Parks and Recreation-hosted disc golf doubles program is at 5:30 p.m. Thursdays at Fletcher Community Park. Program to players of any ability. Loaner discs available. Visit www.fletcherparks.org.

FONTANA VILLAGE: Local author and hiker Jerry Span leads family-friendly, diverse programs throughout the year. For information or to register, call 498-2211, ext. 144.

FOOTHILLS EQUESTRIAN NATURE CENTER: FENCE offers 384 acres of hardwood forest, meadow and wetland for hikers, birdwatchers, gardeners and astronomers. Located at 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon. 859-9012 or www.fence.org.

GORGES STATE PARK: State park in Transylvania County, about 45 miles southwest of Asheville. Park office is on U.S. 64 in Sapphire. Trails, waterfalls, picnic areas, campsites. Admission is free. Call 966-9099.

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN: Located off N.C. 221, south of Boone. Attractions include Mile High Swinging Bridge, environmental habitats for native wildlife, natural history museum and alpine hiking trails. Visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK: Extends 70 miles along the North Carolina-Tennessee border. Hiking trails, scenic driving routes, camping, picnic sites. Open year-round. Free. Call the Oconaluftee Visitor Center on U.S. 441 at 497-1904 or visitwww.nps.gov/grsm.

LAKE JAMES STATE PARK: At the base of Linville Gorge, Lake James State Park is a 6,510-acre lake with boating, fishing and swimming in season, picnic area, campground, hiking trails and ranger-led nature programs. Call office in Nebo, McDowell County, at 652-5047 or visit www.ncparks.gov.

Trick or Trail: Meet at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14, at the campground parking lot. Get in the Halloween spirit with campfire stories of local legends, face-painting, treats, and a short night hike. Register by calling the park office at 584-7728.

LOST COVE NATURALIST CENTER: Offering programs in outdoor self-reliance living skills. Learn primitive technology skills, taught by hands-on professionals. Center is at 160 Grassy Knoll Way, Blowing Rock. More at 295-8570 or www.lostcovenaturalist.com.

MOUNTAIN WILD: Local chapter of the N.C. Wildlife Federation works to preserve and increase wildlife and wildlife habitat of the WNC mountains. Free programs meet the fourth Tuesday of each month at the WNC Nature Center, 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville. Call 338-0035.

MOUNT MITCHELL STATE PARK: Home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell, 6,684 feet elevation. Located on N.C. 128, off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 355. Interactive programs are free. Call 675-4611 or e-mailmount.mitchell@ncmail.net.

? Wildlife, Weather and Trees of Mount Mitchell. Meet at 1 p.m. Friday and 4:30 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Education Center.

? Winter on Mount Mitchell. Meet at 11 a.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. Oct. 21 at the Education Center to learn what Mount Mitchell State Park is like in the winter and see short video.

? Life of a Park Ranger. Meet at 10 a.m. Sunday at the Education Center to learn about ranger life at Mount Mitchell.

N.C. ARBORETUM: Connects people and plants through various year-round programs, lectures and special events. Promotes conservation, education and research. Located off N.C. 191/Brevard Road, south of the Biltmore Square Mall. Call 665-2492 or visitwww.ncarboretum.org.

PISGAH CENTER FOR WILDLIFE EDUCATION: Ongoing calendar of classes at the center, adjacent to the fish hatchery in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. Operated by N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. All programs are free; registration required. The center is open to the public daily, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. except Sunday. Call 877-4423.

PURA VIDA ADVENTURES: Adventure guide service offering guided climbing, mountain biking, hiking, water tours and paddling trips. Call 772-579-0005 or visit www.pvadventures.com.

REI ASHEVILLE: Outdoors outfitter in Biltmore Park, 31 Schenck Parkway offers ongoing schedule of classes and special events. Call 687-0918 or visit www.rei.com. Registration required.

SIERRA CLUB (PISGAH): The Pisgah chapter of the national environmental club. Monthly meetings and discussions. Call Robert C. Hynett at 693-1975 or e-mail kodiac@cytechcis.net.

SIERRA CLUB (WENOCA): Western North Carolina chapter of the Sierra Club. Meetings at Unitarian Church, corner of Charlotte Street and Edwin Place, Asheville, and are free and open to public. Visitwww.northcarolina.sierraclub.org/wenoca.

SLICKROCK EXPEDITIONS: Cullowhee-based guide service that runs recreational trips of backpacking, canoeing and camping in wilderness areas throughout the Southeast, as well as in the Southwest and Pacific Northwest. Call Burt Kornegay at 293-3999 or visit www.slickrockexpeditions.com.

SOUTHERN APPALACHIAN HIGHLANDS CONSERVANCY: The conservancy works with individuals and local communities to identify, preserve and manage the region’s important lands. Hikes scheduled on Saturdays. Call 253-0095 or visit www.appalachian.org.

RV CAMPING CLUB: Small local camping club looking for new members. Camping trips are one weekend per month, March-November. All ages welcome. No dues, no structured activities. We share a love of the outdoors, good company, great food & a roaring campfire. Contact Lillian at lilnau@aol.com or 369-6669.

WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED: Offering various bird programs with instructor and owner Simon Thompson. Visit www.asheville.wbu for directions, more information or contact WBU at 687-9433.

WNC NATURE CENTER: A living museum of plants and animals native to the Appalachian region, 75 Gashes Creek Road in East Asheville. Admission: $8 adults, $5 children, free to members of Friends of the Nature Center. Call 298-5600. www.wildwnc.org.

The Asheville Cinema Society brings up the curtain on its 2011-12 season with a program and screening starting at 6 at Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. The feature is “The River Why,” about a rebellious young fisherman who moves into the wild. The cast includes Zach Gilford, William Hurt, Kathleen Quinlan and William Devane. Admission is $25, which includes a reception. Twenty percent of tonight’s proceeds are going to Asheville’s RiverLink.

Funny and keyed up

Start the weekend with a good laugh at the Grove Park Inn. It’s Friday night Live at Elaine’s with Disclaimer Comedy. Local and regional comics perform at 8:15 p.m., followed by the Dueling Piano show. There’s no cover charge, which is always good news.

Rock with Rick

Singer Rick Springfield has recorded a bunch of hits: “Human Touch,” “Don’t Talk To Strangers,” “Affair of the Heart,” and “Jesse’s Girl.” Springfield plays at 7:30 at Harrah’s Cherokee Event Center in Cherokee. Tickets are $25, $35 and $55 plus service charge at Ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000. You’ve got to be 21 or older.

That’s hot

The new French Broad Fall Festival makes its debut at the Hot Springs Campground and Spa with a musical lineup that includes the Lee Boys, Yarn, Eyes of the Elders, Josh Phillips Folk Festival, Woody Woody and Sons of Ralph. And eight breweries will be there. Get tickets online at www.frenchbroadfallfest.com

Bikes and beers

The new Brews and Views craft beer festival debuts rolls out with the U.S. Cycling Bike Gravity National Championships in Beech Mountain. More than two dozen beers will be served, plus music by The Courduroy Road, Uncle Mountain, Now You See Them and Possum Jenkins. Tickets are $20 in advance atwww.bandtastic.com/brewsandviews or $25 at the gate.

Picture this

Actor Adrian Grenier, star of HBO’s “Entourage,” will screen his new documentary, “Teenage Paparazzo,” and answer questions at 6:30 p.m. at UNCA’s Lipinsky Auditorium. It’s about Greiner’s relationship with a 14-year-old paparazzo he met on a night out. It’s free, but seating is limited to 150.

Good and good for you

Haywood Arts Regional Theater and The Gateway Club in Waynesville have a theatrical feast on the menu. The “Seasonings” dinner is built around HART’s not-yet-announced 2012 season. Admission is $30 and includes the full dinner starting at 6 p.m. Call 456-6789.