Hiking isn't just for summer in the mountains. Though the air temperature was 46 degrees on Friday, it was a great day for hiking along the streams around the mountain. The snow melt created some spectacular waterfalls along the way.
Welcome to Beech Mountain....at 5,506' in elevation, we are the highest incorporated town east of the Rocky Mountains. Imagine living here - we can make it happen!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Hiking on Beech Mountain
December 19, 2008
Hiking isn't just for summer in the mountains. Though the air temperature was 46 degrees on Friday, it was a great day for hiking along the streams around the mountain. The snow melt created some spectacular waterfalls along the way.
Hiking isn't just for summer in the mountains. Though the air temperature was 46 degrees on Friday, it was a great day for hiking along the streams around the mountain. The snow melt created some spectacular waterfalls along the way.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Dedication to Marilyn Diehl
December 12, 2008
The Diehl and Knepka families would like to sincerely thank everyone on the mountain that has been so gracious in helping us with the passing of Marilyn Diehl this past 2 weeks. Your dedication and caring thoughts have meant so much to us all. The time you take out of your day to stop and converse with my father has been unmeasurable in our hearts. It has helped him tremendously; I see how each day he is stronger and more at peace. You all had a hand in making this happen and I am so greatful. My mother was a strong, wonderful women and we will miss her and are content in the knowledge that she is at peace.
- Submitted by Susie Knepka, daughter of Marilyn Diehl
The Diehl and Knepka families would like to sincerely thank everyone on the mountain that has been so gracious in helping us with the passing of Marilyn Diehl this past 2 weeks. Your dedication and caring thoughts have meant so much to us all. The time you take out of your day to stop and converse with my father has been unmeasurable in our hearts. It has helped him tremendously; I see how each day he is stronger and more at peace. You all had a hand in making this happen and I am so greatful. My mother was a strong, wonderful women and we will miss her and are content in the knowledge that she is at peace.
- Submitted by Susie Knepka, daughter of Marilyn Diehl
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Ski Beech Unveils Major Upgrades to Slopes, Infrastructure
December 10, 2008
Ski Beech at Beech Mountain Resort enters its fifth decade with a variety of improvements and new options for winter sports enthusiasts.
The resort has added a new tubing park, a second terrain park, new quad chairs on the Oz lift, two new grooming machines, and 56 high-tech snow guns. Additionally, all reservoir lakes have been dredged to push the mountain’s water capacity to eight million gallons.
The end result, says new director of operations Ryan Costin, will be a vastly improved experience for visitors to Ski Beech and Beech Mountain Resort.
“We’re really making an effort to win back their business and make this a place they want to visit,” said Costin. “A plan is in motion to upgrade the resort for the long haul. Folks will see positive changes this year and in years to come.”
Ryan Costin and his brother, Jack, represent the third generation of the Costin family at Beech Mountain Resort. Their father, John, is president, while their grandfather, Ray, has owned the operation since 1985.
Ryan Costin studied ski resort management at Western State College in Colorado, and he is using that knowledge to spearhead improvements at Beech. He has centralized and streamlined the check-in process for skiers, and placed an emphasis on customer service.
“Although we’ve invested a lot in capital improvements, one thing everybody will notice is our push to improve customer service. It will be at a higher standard than in years past,” Costin said. “All lift operators will wear uniforms for the first time in a few years. And our staff will be focused on helping people on the hill, and off the hill.”
Skiers should also notice the addition of the two new grooming machines for the slopes.
“It is extremely important to be able to maintain the snow quality, especially in the South where you get the constant change of temperatures,” Costin said.
The resort’s director of marketing, Gil Adams, is pleased with what’s taking place.
“To me, the most important thing that is new is a new philosophy,” said Adams. “Everybody in management now is an avid skier and they’re breathing new life into this place.”
Ski Beech at Beech Mountain Resort opened for the season Nov. 22, marking just the second time since 2000 it has opened prior to Thanksgiving.
For resort information, call (800) 438-2093 or visit www.skibeech.com.
Article by Craig Distl; Photo by Debbie Canady
Ski Beech at Beech Mountain Resort enters its fifth decade with a variety of improvements and new options for winter sports enthusiasts.The resort has added a new tubing park, a second terrain park, new quad chairs on the Oz lift, two new grooming machines, and 56 high-tech snow guns. Additionally, all reservoir lakes have been dredged to push the mountain’s water capacity to eight million gallons.
The end result, says new director of operations Ryan Costin, will be a vastly improved experience for visitors to Ski Beech and Beech Mountain Resort.
“We’re really making an effort to win back their business and make this a place they want to visit,” said Costin. “A plan is in motion to upgrade the resort for the long haul. Folks will see positive changes this year and in years to come.”
Ryan Costin and his brother, Jack, represent the third generation of the Costin family at Beech Mountain Resort. Their father, John, is president, while their grandfather, Ray, has owned the operation since 1985.
Ryan Costin studied ski resort management at Western State College in Colorado, and he is using that knowledge to spearhead improvements at Beech. He has centralized and streamlined the check-in process for skiers, and placed an emphasis on customer service.
“Although we’ve invested a lot in capital improvements, one thing everybody will notice is our push to improve customer service. It will be at a higher standard than in years past,” Costin said. “All lift operators will wear uniforms for the first time in a few years. And our staff will be focused on helping people on the hill, and off the hill.”
Skiers should also notice the addition of the two new grooming machines for the slopes.
“It is extremely important to be able to maintain the snow quality, especially in the South where you get the constant change of temperatures,” Costin said.
The resort’s director of marketing, Gil Adams, is pleased with what’s taking place.
“To me, the most important thing that is new is a new philosophy,” said Adams. “Everybody in management now is an avid skier and they’re breathing new life into this place.”
Ski Beech at Beech Mountain Resort opened for the season Nov. 22, marking just the second time since 2000 it has opened prior to Thanksgiving.
For resort information, call (800) 438-2093 or visit www.skibeech.com.
Article by Craig Distl; Photo by Debbie Canady
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Sledding Hill is Open
November 19, 2008
The Town of Beech Mountain once again offers children a winter full of fun with its youth sledding hill. The hill is adjacent to Town Hall and provides good sledding conditions with a combination of man-made and natural snow. Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, is the highest town in Eastern America with an average annual snowfall of more than 80 inches.
“There is no charge for the sledding hill and it is open daily, as long as we have snow coverage,” says Peggy Coscia, of the Beech Mountain Chamber. “We get kids from all over the Southeast. Folks are welcome to call and check conditions. I provide real-time updates from my office window.”
The Beech Mountain sledding hill is for kids age 12 and under, although parents may ride with smaller children. Plastic sleds are required. Folks are encouraged to bring their own sleds, or they can be purchased at a few stores on the mountain.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week, with safety personnel on duty.
For information and up-to-the-minute sledding conditions, contact the Beech Mountain Chamber toll free at (800) 468-5506.
Press Release provided by Craig Distl
The Town of Beech Mountain once again offers children a winter full of fun with its youth sledding hill. The hill is adjacent to Town Hall and provides good sledding conditions with a combination of man-made and natural snow. Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, is the highest town in Eastern America with an average annual snowfall of more than 80 inches.“There is no charge for the sledding hill and it is open daily, as long as we have snow coverage,” says Peggy Coscia, of the Beech Mountain Chamber. “We get kids from all over the Southeast. Folks are welcome to call and check conditions. I provide real-time updates from my office window.”
The Beech Mountain sledding hill is for kids age 12 and under, although parents may ride with smaller children. Plastic sleds are required. Folks are encouraged to bring their own sleds, or they can be purchased at a few stores on the mountain.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week, with safety personnel on duty.
For information and up-to-the-minute sledding conditions, contact the Beech Mountain Chamber toll free at (800) 468-5506.
Press Release provided by Craig Distl
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Pre-Thanksgiving Snow
November 18, 2008
We have 4" of brand new snow since yesterday and it is just beautiful. Our furry neighbors are out scouting for food sources and the following three pictures show some of them.
A five-point buck and one of four fawns.
The five-point buck and four fawns. The two does were staying clear of the buck as it is also rutting season.
Beautiful big eight-point buck.
We have 4" of brand new snow since yesterday and it is just beautiful. Our furry neighbors are out scouting for food sources and the following three pictures show some of them.
A five-point buck and one of four fawns.
The five-point buck and four fawns. The two does were staying clear of the buck as it is also rutting season.
Beautiful big eight-point buck. On another note, Ski Beech is gearing up for ski/snowboarding/ice skating/tubing season and we look forward to opening day, currently scheduled for November 22nd. See you there!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
New Ski Beech News
November 8, 2008
Inquiring minds want to know...what's new with Ski Beech? I have had a few people tell me "..you really need to go up there to see what's new..." so I did.
There are a number of new snow guns dotting the area.
Everywhere I turned I saw new this, refurbished that, this moved, that relocated. Case in point, the skating rental area is now conveniently located within shared quarters where you can get something hot to eat and drink on the opposite side of the ice rink.
It appears the lift ticket booth is now in a much more convenient location at the corner of a high traffic area between View Haus, rental shops and ski instruction areas.
The tubing runs have taken shape between BMC's Alpen Haus and View Haus with berms to protect both tubers and people walking the path between the two Haus buildings.
A very exciting addition are the murals painted on the entire tunnel through View Haus.
If you are here and have not seen the changes you really should take a look around. Even the road to the parking lots has been paved. If you aren't here, make sure you book early for your ski trip. You won't be disappointed. We are all looking forward to a great snow season. Hope to see you here too!! For more pictures, please visit http://www.skibeech.com/ and http://bmcmembersblog.blogspot.com/.
Inquiring minds want to know...what's new with Ski Beech? I have had a few people tell me "..you really need to go up there to see what's new..." so I did.
There are a number of new snow guns dotting the area.
Everywhere I turned I saw new this, refurbished that, this moved, that relocated. Case in point, the skating rental area is now conveniently located within shared quarters where you can get something hot to eat and drink on the opposite side of the ice rink.
It appears the lift ticket booth is now in a much more convenient location at the corner of a high traffic area between View Haus, rental shops and ski instruction areas.
The tubing runs have taken shape between BMC's Alpen Haus and View Haus with berms to protect both tubers and people walking the path between the two Haus buildings.
A very exciting addition are the murals painted on the entire tunnel through View Haus.
If you are here and have not seen the changes you really should take a look around. Even the road to the parking lots has been paved. If you aren't here, make sure you book early for your ski trip. You won't be disappointed. We are all looking forward to a great snow season. Hope to see you here too!! For more pictures, please visit http://www.skibeech.com/ and http://bmcmembersblog.blogspot.com/.Saturday, November 1, 2008
Beech Mountain Chamber After Hours
October 30, 2008
This event, held at the Beech Alpen Inn, was attended by quite a few business people from Beech Mountain and Avery County, as well as some four legged neighbors on that frequent the Inn. These 6 and 8 point bucks caused quite a stir when they locked horns for a show of strength. (Sorry for the quality of the photo but it was taken through glass so as not to disturb the bucks).
Even some of the Beech Mountain Club members were able to attend the event. The food was absolutely wonderful and we appreciate the efforts that Fred Barth and Steve went through to make this a memorable event.
This event, held at the Beech Alpen Inn, was attended by quite a few business people from Beech Mountain and Avery County, as well as some four legged neighbors on that frequent the Inn. These 6 and 8 point bucks caused quite a stir when they locked horns for a show of strength. (Sorry for the quality of the photo but it was taken through glass so as not to disturb the bucks).
Even some of the Beech Mountain Club members were able to attend the event. The food was absolutely wonderful and we appreciate the efforts that Fred Barth and Steve went through to make this a memorable event. 
What a beautiful building and such a nice cozy, yet large, room to be able to have this event in. We look forward to the next get together.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Autumn at Oz - Sunday Event
Sunday, October 5th
The Scarecrow, Dorothy and Toto pose with local resident, Dominick Hamilton.
The Scarecrow, Dorothy and Toto pose with local resident, Dominick Hamilton.
Munchkin Land was a kaleidoscope of color, including the Munchkins.
A beautiful autumn day in the Land of Oz. What a great day to walk the yellow brick road.
The Wicked Witch's castle and cauldron.
The gang's all here: The Tin Man, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, Glinda the Good Witch, The Wicked Witch of the West, Dorothy and Toto, too, along with a couple of cute visitors.
The count is still out but it appears we had in excess of 8000 visitors this year. Don't miss next year's event. Check the dates and information at http://www.beechmountainchamber.com/home.htm. See you there!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Autumn at Oz - Saturday event
Friday afternoon at The Pinnacle Inn
The Pinnacle Inn provided a great opportunity to meet some of the cast of characters and a preview of what we could expect to see at this year's Autumn at Oz.
One of many 'Dorothys' and 'Totos' that attended the first day's event.
The Pinnacle Inn provided a great opportunity to meet some of the cast of characters and a preview of what we could expect to see at this year's Autumn at Oz.
One of many 'Dorothys' and 'Totos' that attended the first day's event.
The Cowardly Lion overcame his fear enough to meet and greet many of the people coming to the event, including this cute little flying monkey.
The Wicked Witch of the West, one of her soldiers and the Mayor of Oz were well represented.
We could not have asked for a better day for this event. The sunshine, light breeze and temperatures in the 60s provided all with a beautiful and pleasant day.
Tomorrow I will get pictures from Oz at the top so check back!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Kite Festival was a hit!
August 31, 2008 - Mile High Kite Festival
Nathan was the winner of the smallest kite. Congratulations to Nathan and all of our other winners.
The colors, shapes and spinning tails were an entertaining site to behold...even for those not participating but just there to view it all.
Nathan was the winner of the smallest kite. Congratulations to Nathan and all of our other winners.
We had a great turnout for this annual event and there was enough wind to get most kites in the air for several hours.
Kiting clubs Richmond Air Force, Wings Across Carolina Kiting and The Okra Society were on hand to add their spectacular kites to this event as well as announce descriptions of the kites and assist with getting kites into the air.
The colors, shapes and spinning tails were an entertaining site to behold...even for those not participating but just there to view it all.
The blue skies, light winds and great temperatures made this a very pleasant day for kite flying, walking around town and just enjoying the day.
A very popular addition is always the face painting for the kids and we can see why.
Kay Hagan, democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, was on hand to meet with Chamber director, Peggy Coscia, as well as other town leaders, residents and visitors.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Barn Dance
August 16, 2008
The Barn Dance held at the Buckeye Recreation Center was a fun event for all 50 people who attended the event, as well as the volunteers helping Peggy and Mike from the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored the event.
The band provided dancing music and accompaniment for Roy Krege, who called square dances, the Chicken Dance and the Hokey Pokey. Bill Hess and his group instructed the line dancing.
Many thanks to everyone who made this event possible. And a special thank you to Mike for providing the pictures. Next event: The Mile High Kite Festival on September 3rd across from Town Hall in the field next to the Brick Oven. Hope to see everyone out enjoying these cool breezes.
The Barn Dance held at the Buckeye Recreation Center was a fun event for all 50 people who attended the event, as well as the volunteers helping Peggy and Mike from the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored the event.
The band provided dancing music and accompaniment for Roy Krege, who called square dances, the Chicken Dance and the Hokey Pokey. Bill Hess and his group instructed the line dancing.
Many thanks to everyone who made this event possible. And a special thank you to Mike for providing the pictures. Next event: The Mile High Kite Festival on September 3rd across from Town Hall in the field next to the Brick Oven. Hope to see everyone out enjoying these cool breezes.Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Barn Dance this Saturday - Y'All Come!
BEECH MOUNTAIN IS HAVING AGOOD OLE WESTERN
“PRAIRIE” BARN DANCE
Place: BUCKEYE RECREATION CENTER
Date: AUGUST 16TH, 2008
Time: 6 P.M. – 9 P.M.
PUT ON YOUR BOOTS, BUY A COWBOY HAT, TIE A BANDANA AROUND YOUR NECK, JOIN THE CROWD FOR DANCING TO THE LEFTOVER BLUEGRASS BAND, AND ENJOY A CHUCKWAGON MEAL.
BYOB – PROVIDE YOUR OWN SET UP
THERE WILL ALSO BE A SPECIAL APPEARANCE BY
ROY KREGE AS OUR SQUARE DANCE CALLER and BILL HESS AND TROUPE WILL LEAD LINE DANCING
COST : $15.00 PER COWBOY OR COWGIRL, INCLUDING MEAL CONSISTING OF:
PRAIRIE CHILI WITH COLE SLAW AND CORNBREAD
OR
PRAIRIE HOT DOG PLATE WITH COLE SLAW AND MAC & CHEESE
TICKETS AVAILABLE : BUCKEYE RECREATION CENTER
AND THE BEECH MOUNTAIN CHAMBER
PHONE CONTACT : 828-387-9283
PHONE CONTACT : 828-387-9283
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Annual Crafts on the Green
The weather held out for vendors and attendees alike at the Crafts on the Green in downtown Beech Mountain.
The large variety of crafts provided everyone with many choices from bags, paintings, woodworking, rugs, birdhouse gourds, plants, jewelry and more.
The authors turned out as well, with a variety of books available on local topics.
Music was provided by Fred and Margie Pfohl with the addition of a live band in the gazebo for enjoyment by the large crowd that swelled as the event continued into the lunch hour.
The large variety of crafts provided everyone with many choices from bags, paintings, woodworking, rugs, birdhouse gourds, plants, jewelry and more.
The authors turned out as well, with a variety of books available on local topics.
Music was provided by Fred and Margie Pfohl with the addition of a live band in the gazebo for enjoyment by the large crowd that swelled as the event continued into the lunch hour.
The events and opportunities for fun on Beech Mountain are almost limitless. If you missed this one, visit the Chamber web site for the calendar of events. Scroll down on the right side of this page and click the link for the Chamber.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Summer Sunday Concert - The Cockman Family
Sunday, July 20, 2008
The second Summer Sunday Concert of 2008, sponsored by Fred and Margie Pfohl, featured The Cockman Family, a Gospel/Bluegrass band.
The setting in and around the gazebo is always a great venue for this much anticipated event. Five concerts are scheduled for 2008, each Sunday from July 13th to August 10th. Check www.fredsgeneral/events.htm to see which band will be performing each Sunday.
As always, people came in droves with their folding chairs, blankets and a light jacket, sweater or umbrella - just in case. No one left disappointed. Thanks to Fred and Margie for sponsoring this great series for all to enjoy.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)