1) Contemplative Pedagogy and the Transformation of Higher Education to be Discussed Sept. 30
Dr. Daniel Barbezat, co-author of “Contemplative Practices in Higher Education: Powerful Methods to Transform Teaching and Learning” will speak at Appalachian State University Sept. 30 from 5-6 p.m. in Plemmons Student Union. His address will be held in the Blue Ridge Parkway Ballroom, the public is invited to attend. Barbezat’s lecture will explain what is meant by “contemplative pedagogies” and how first-person critical inquiry can cultivate better discernment and attention in students, provide the means for deepening their understanding of the material they are studying, and foster environments to inquire and live meaningfully. It will also explore how contemplative pedagogy can be a powerful way in which educators work together to reclaim the transformative nature of education. Examples of contemplative practices used in education include reflective writing and journaling, meditation or movements that quiet the mind and strengthen attention, expressive arts, deep listening, storytelling and mindfulness. Barbezat is a professor of economics at Amherst College. He is also executive director of the Center for Contemplative Mind in Society, the national hub for contemplative teaching and learning in higher education. He has lectured and led workshops on contemplative learning and pedagogy throughout the United States and Canada. Barbezat’s lecture is sponsored by Appalachian’s University College and a grant from The Center for Contemplative Mind in Society.
2) Reception and Book Release Celebration at The Art Cellar Gallery Sept. 5
Hope you can join us this Friday, Sept. 5, from 4-6 p.m. for the reception and book release celebration of Howard Campbell and the Art of Woodrow Hill.
3) Mast General Store Celebrates Friends’ Day Sept. 13
Henry Ford once said, “My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.” When friends get together, more can be accomplished than going it alone. On Saturday, Sept. 13, the Mast Store will be hosting volunteers for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation at the Original Mast Store and Annex in Valle Crucis and the Mast Store in Boone. The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation works with the National Park Service to enhance the visitor experience along the 469 miles of America’s Favorite Scenic Drive. Through fundraising efforts, the sale of Blue Ridge Parkway vanity plates and donations from dedicated members the Foundation underwrites many of the improvement projects along the scenic roadway, like the construction of restrooms at Bass Lake and trail improvements at Price Lake. “The Blue Ridge Parkway is a key attraction in the High Country,” said Fred Martin, president of the Mast Store. “Not only is it an escape from the everyday for our locals, it is a place visited by travelers from around the world because of its scenic overlooks, cultural connections and many options for hiking and exploring. It is important for us, for everyone, to do what we can to take care of this national treasure.” The Parkway is one of the most visited units in the national parks system. Established in 1997, the Foundation has given its support to many projects that would have otherwise gone unfunded. “We are deeply appreciative of Mast General Store’s partnership and support of projects on the Blue Ridge Parkway that help preserve the past, enhance the present and safeguard the future of this unit of the National Park Service,” said Carolyn Ward, chief executive officer of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. “Not only is Mast Store providing support with a percentage of sales on Friends’ Day, but two of their vendors, Patagonia and Patagonia Footwear, are also making a donation.” At the end of the day on Saturday, Sept. 13, the Mast Store will make a donation of 10 percent of the day’s sales from the stores in Boone and Valle Crucis, along with Asheville and Hendersonville, in support of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. In addition, Patagonia and Patagonia Footwear will also support this group’s efforts with their own contribution based upon units sold between Sept. 1-13. To learn more about Friends’ Day visit www.MastStore.com.
4) Be a Hero for “Heroes Day” at the ASU Game Saturday – 100 Volunteers Needed
The ASU Office of Promotions and Fan Engagement desperately needs volunteers for the giant American flag pre-game presentation on Saturday, Sept. 6 as Appalachian hosts Campbell for Heroes Day. This is a great opportunity to represent our community and App State Athletics by standing together with our heroes in honoring all military and first responders together for Heroes Day. Volunteers will be asked to report to Kidd Brewer Stadium to practice from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Check in for volunteers will open at 10 a.m. on Stadium Drive across from the Quinn. All volunteers are asked to wear Appalachian gear (black and gold) and comfortable shoes. They will be joining military and first responders in opening the flag. After practice, volunteers are able to enjoy the game day atmosphere before reporting back to the check-in table at 5 p.m. to get ready for the pre-game flag presentation. Volunteers must RSVP to wesleysm@appstate.edu. All volunteers will receive a free box lunch and a free ticket to the game. All participants must be 16 or older.
5) Patterson School Foundation Breathes New Life Into Equestrian Center
Patterson School Foundation will reintroduce the Patterson Equestrian Center to Happy Valley by hosting its first Open Horse Show on Saturday, Nov. 1 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The event offers an opportunity for riders of all ages five years through adult, and all skill levels, to participate in traditional and non-traditional games. Additionally, it will showcase some of the exciting, emerging programs and services available including boarding, hiking and riding clubs. The Patterson Equestrian Center provides a picturesque setting for riders and is the first physical, agricultural manifestation of the Patterson School Foundation’s vision for renewal and abundance on the beautiful and historic 1,400 acre campus. Participants, sponsors, vendors and volunteers are welcome and will come together for this inaugural event. “There is life at Patterson again, positive, restorative, regenerative energy, that is reclaiming the past and passionately pursuing its’ future potential,” said Board Chair Kitty Rosati. “Our sights are set on being a gift to the community, an educational and healing center for fun, friendship and food.” The former Patterson School, now the Patterson School Foundation, is nestled in Happy Valley, nine miles north of Lenoir and 20 miles south of Boone and Blowing Rock. Resting of the former Palmyra Plantation once belonging to Samuel Legerwood Patterson, it was established as an agricultural school for boys in 1909, later becoming a coed, college prep school for 100 years.
6) Grandfather Mountain to Host Creatures of the Night Event
Online registration is now open for Grandfather Mountain’s Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight event. The event, set for Oct. 4, features spooky stories told by firelight and rare after-dark tours of Grandfather Mountain. After joining for hot chocolate and apple cider by the bonfire, guests will join the Animal Habitats staff for a nighttime trek on the Mountain. Participants will take a guided tour of the black bear habitat and embark on an Owl Prowl to search for the noisy nocturnal natives. They also have the opportunity to meet several of Grandfather Mountain’s educational animals: Eastern screech owls Zoey and Herbie and barred owl Shakespeare. “Seeing the animals that roam after dark is a real treat,” said Habitats Curator Christie Tipton. “There’s nothing better than getting outside in the crisp autumn air.” The event will be held from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Oct. 4. Participants must be at least 8 years old to attend and registration is required. Admission to the program is $20 per person. Guests should dress warmly and bring blankets, flashlights and s’mores ingredients to enjoy around the fire. For more information or to register, visit www.grandfather.com or call 828-733-2013.
7) Harp, Flute and Viola Featured in Sept. 16 Performance at ASU
Harpist Jacquelyn Barlett, flutist Kay Borkowski and violist Eric Koontz will perform works from the 20th century Sept. 16 at Appalachian State University. The 8 p.m. performance will be presented in Broyhill Music Center’s Rosen Concert Hall. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend.
8) Ranger Programs at the Blue Ridge Parkway
There are no programs this week at Price Park and Moses Cone Memorial Park. On Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Minerals Museum at Mile Marker 331, we will be helping to host the Overmountain Victory Celebration from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.