People You Know! Vol. 2

So we've heard the tunes of Widespread Panic and Michael Houser, but there are many more interesting people around the area... one of them being Robby Benson. Okay, so the name might not light a spark, but his accomplishments will.

Actor and director Robby Benson isn't a native to the High Country, but taught at Appalachian State for a long while. Though credited for many movies such as Ice Castles and Ode to Billy Joe, Benson will never be able to shake this family favorite... he was the voice for the Beast in Beauty and the Beast! As he's spoken about what all the film taught him, Benson began to mature and moved onto bigger projects which include directing and writing.

Now, Benson is still in the business and his most recent works were actually voices in other Disney movies (maybe he just found his niche!) Coming back to the High Country every once in awhile, teaching at Appalachian was definitely a memorable experience.

Raft, Hike, Bike, Golf, Fish!

Always time for more outdoor activities! There's never a lack of things to do around here, and the summer recreation season is booming. For a couple suggestions, try these places... they're some of our favorites!

Grandfather Mountain's 57th Highland Games Are Almost Here!

It's time again! Grandfather Mountain will the hosting the 57th Highland Games event on July 12-15th. A climax in the season, the Highland Games are traditionally a gathering of the Scottish Clans. Every year there is traditional Gaelic dancing, piping, drumming, athletics and music over the three days. Promised to get your spirits going, the non-profit festival helps students from Avery County High School further their educations at colleges and universities across the country.

Upon driving to the event, you'll be able to hear bagpipes and music up the mountain. Celtic rock artists and traditional musicians from across the country come to the GMHG every year, and this time we'll see performances from Saor Patrol, Ed Miller, and Uncle Hamish & the Hooligans among many others. Music for all ages, it really is an experience to be had.

While rocking out, learn about traditional Gaelic events such as sheep herding, attend a fiddling workshop, compete in the Grizzly Bike Race, have fun at the Clan Tug-of-War, or just sit back and watch the Highland Wrestling Competition.

Even if you don't have any Scottish in your ancestry, how many times can you experience all of this?! You'll definitely be able to find us there!

Check it out and buy your tickets soon, they go quickly!