Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) – Live Updates and Coverage

March 13, 2020March 13, 2020Leave a comment

The COVID-19 outbreak is real. If you are able to read this blog entry, you should also be able to access social media, newspapers and TV – plenty of information has been broadcasted and shared so there shouldn’t be any excuse for ignorance. Take the necessary precautions to help fight the spreading of the virus, and if your local community is being directly affected, the time has come to stay at home to avoid crowds and exposure. The best way to keep track of local news is to subscribe to your local newspaper and no, you don’t have to walk out of the house to buy the paper every day. Simply sign up for a digital subscription so you can keep a closer eye on what’s going on around you – it is going to get worse before it gets better.

If you are searching for reliable information, check the links below to keep yourself up-to-date to help fighting the COVID-19 outbreak.

Christmas Giveaway!

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The Art of Food – Mobile Eateries of Western N.C.

July 31, 2019Leave a comment

The food truck industry can be traced back to the years after the Civil War. According to the History Channel “Chuck wagons and pushcarts served cowboys and urban workers…” The wagons served breakfast, lunch and dinner on vehicles designed to prepare, cook and store food. Pushcarts served cheap and on-the-go lunches to construction workers, delivery boys, busy newspaper reporters and anyone who would enjoy a cheap but nourishing meal.

The 1920s brought us the first motorized food vehicles – while the Henry Ford-led automobile industry expanded, Harry Burt Jr. invested in 12 refrigerated trucks for distribution of Good Humor ice cream bars in the city of Youngstown, Ohio. By the 1960s, thousands of ice creams trucks became part of communities across the country.

Since the 2008 recession, the food truck industry has grown in popularity, and the most devoted foodies love the convenience, the quality, and overall experience street food has to offer. To enjoy this finger-lickin’ experience, you must step out of your comfort zone – support our local entrepreneurs and try delicious street-side cuisine from these mobile eateries in the Western North Carolina region.

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Table for Two with a View – Where to Wine and Dine in Western N.C.

February 7, 2019February 7, 2019Leave a comment

With Valentine’s Day being one of the most popular dining days of the year, I’ve short-listed a few cozy, most romantic restaurants to celebrate this special date. Indulgent menus, tasteful wines and scrumptious desserts will satisfy your romance criteria and the taste buds of your loved one. Escape the big city and enjoy the drive but end the day with a delightful meal at one of these charming restaurants. You will support local businesses and cherish these memories for years to come. Reservations are highly encouraged, if not required.

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Roaring River Vineyards – French Inspired Wine Making in North Carolina

December 12, 2018December 15, 2018Leave a comment

When Thomas, and his wife, Josephine, first visited Traphill, N.C., a rural community located in northeastern Wilkes County, the landscape reminded Josephine of the French countryside, where she grew up. They decided to relocate from Charlotte to this lush valley, where they purchased 50 acres to pursue the dream of starting a vineyard.

Roaring River Vineyards French Inspired Wine Making in North Carolina

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Artisan Soapers of North Carolina – Deck The Halls Edition

December 5, 2018December 5, 2018Leave a comment

What better way to start your day than smelling your favorite scent or using a soap that actually cleans and makes your skin glow? The superior quality of a handcrafted soap is beneficial to your skin in many ways. Mass-produced store bought soaps contains a mixture of chemicals and additives that might be harmful to your skin while handmade soaps only contains a hand full of ingredients such as glycerin, oils, butters, juices, sodium hydroxide, fragrances, natural colorants, and locally grown ingredients: honey, beeswax, sugar, herbs, or nuts. The all-natural beauty bars also have antioxidants, vitamins, nutrients, and the right pH levels (9-10) that are essential to a healthy skin. Not only your body will benefit from using handcrafted soaps but you will also support small businesses and entrepreneurial artisans.

It won’t be hard to find a local soapery near you. This line of business has been trending for the last couple of years as people are becoming more aware of the benefits of all-natural and organic products. If you reside in the great state of North Carolina, please visit – in store or online – these fantastic shops I’m featuring below. If you are a little further away, you always can make your purchase online. These stores have a wide range of handcrafted soaps, great feedback from their customers, and a user friendly website that will give you an easy online and pleasant shopping experience.

Any of these one-of-kind products are the perfect stocking stuffers. Purchase a full set or a basket and gift it to your special friend, wife, or a coworker!

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Best Christmas Light Displays in Western N.C.

November 8, 2018November 21, 2018Leave a comment

Feeling all jolly? With Christmas being around the corner, you don’t want to miss these amazing light displays across the N.C. Piedmont region. Some of these breathtaking displays are the best in the state. Since it’s the beginning of November, many of these festive events are still in preparations for the season. With plenty of time to plan and prepare your Grinch-type siblings for this adventure, schedule a weekend trip with your family and spend the evening admiring the fairy lights and cherishing the moment. Eggnog and hot chocolate might be included!

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From Indian Love to Sasquatch Country – Blue Ridge Mountains

October 24, 2018November 21, 20181 Comment

The Blue Ridge Mountains are the crown jewels of Western North Carolina. Here stands one of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes of North America. In the Fall, the Blue Ridge Mountains is one of the most remarkable sites in the world as the leaves change colors to shades of gold, orange, and red. The foliage peak season is here and this year, I’ve decided to explore some of these stunning mountain views.

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