Words have the power to persuade, to entertain, to inform. They also have the power to get an editor to lace up his hiking boots for the first time in too long. This month, our focus is on the great outdoors. And around here, it is great indeed\u2014from mountains to valleys, from waterfalls to forests, from urban areas to rural.<\/p>\n
We have worked with some talented writers to bring you articles this month on mountain biking, fly fishing, paddle sports, rock climbing, birding, outdoor activities for kids, and even dining al fresco. Oh, and there are articles about hiking. It\u2019s those that had me reaching back in my closet and retrieving my hiking boots.<\/p>\n
Once out on the trail, I of course asked myself, \u201cWhy haven\u2019t you been doing this more often?\u201d I quickly realized I didn\u2019t have a good answer to my own question.<\/p>\n
The rhododendrons, azaleas, dogwoods, redbuds, and a multitude of other plants and trees are awakening to embrace springtime. The new season is also bringing a resurgence in the number of musical offerings (from Celtic to jazz, from Verdi\u2019s Requiem <\/i>to Mozart\u2019s The Magic Flute<\/i>) and theatre events (from Death of a Salesman<\/i> to The Man Who Came to Dinner<\/i>).<\/p>\n
At the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Glass & Metal Day is this month. Watch and learn as some members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild demonstrate their amazing artistry.<\/p>\n
Ever wondered why there are bronze pigs in front of Vance Monument in Pack Square Park? Check out John Turk\u2019s history column. In this issue, you\u2019ll also read about the UNC Asheville students who are the driving force behind the university\u2019s sustainability programs. What they\u2019ve done\u2014and what they plan to do\u2014is impressive.<\/p>\n
I hope you\u2019ll take this issue with you, find a great place outdoors, and enjoy!<\/p>\n
Paul M. Howey<\/p>\n
Editor-in-Chief<\/p>\n