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Happy New Year from your friends at Chimney Rock Park! Wow - it certainly seems like time is flying by! It's hard to believe we're starting another year. Did you make any resolutions? We did! Ours is continuing to share the beauty and magic of Chimney Rock Park with all of you. You know, the top resolutions made by Americans each New Year are to get in shape physically and financially. Well, we've got the perfect solution for both – an Annual Pass! For just $25, less than the cost of two general admission tickets, you can visit the Park as often as you'd like for the entire year. Our six trails will get your heart pumping and your body moving. Now that's a win for your body and your bank account.Looking Back2007 was a monumental year for Chimney Rock Park. As many of you know, the Morse family acted as stewards of this land and its splendor for more than 105 years. For the past 21 years, that job has been the passion of Park President Todd Morse. Recently, a commemorative sign was added to the elevator tunnel detailing the legacy of the Morse family in Chimney Rock Park, Lake Lure and the entire Hickory Nut Gorge. It is with sadness that we bid farewell to Todd. At the dedication of the sign, more than 30 present and previous Park associates, community friends and family gathered to pay tribute. A common theme was heard in each of their memories of Todd and Chimney Rock Park – leadership with character, integrity, and most importantly of all, heart. Todd, we will miss you greatly. Your vision for Chimney Rock Park is our foundation, and your love of the place and the people is our momentum. It is because of your dedication to preserving and sharing your beloved Park that future generations will have the chance to make memories at Chimney Rock Park.Looking AheadWe're excited about all the amazing things we've got planned for 2008. Of course, we're bringing back all your favorites, like the "Off the Beaten Path" Guided Hike Series and "Simon Says" Guided Bird Walks, as well as popular annual events like the 53rd Annual Easter Sunrise Service, 4th Annual Bark in the Park and 2nd Annual Race to the Rock (part of the Hickory Nut Gorge Olympiad). We're also planning some new and exciting events for the year. In April, "Everyday is Earth Day" and we'll be celebrating with special programs each weekend focusing on how to be more environmentally friendly. We're also joining in on the country-wide National Trails Day Celebration in June. During September, you can "Flock to the Rock" all month long with activities and educational sessions about the birds that call the Park home. Grab your calendar and check the website for the inside scoop on what's coming up in 2008. You won't want to miss out!Get "Off the Beaten Path"Our annual guided hike series kicks off on Saturday, January 19 with "Barking Up Trees." Learn the details of tree and shrub bark and how it can be used like a "face" to recognize different plants. You may already be able to tell a dogwood by its bark, but what makes a ninebark? Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for this easy trek with Park Naturalist Ron Lance. Ron's been studying Southeastern trees for almost 30 years, so you're sure to learn lots. Check out the whole guided hike series here. To register for January's hike or any of the series, call us at 800-277-9611.Grady the Groundhog Makes a LIVE AppearancePark Mascot Grady the Groundhog is thrilled to share his special day with you. He'll appear LIVE at 10am on Saturday, February 2, aka Groundhog Day, to make his weather prediction. If Grady sees his shadow, winter will be sticking around, but if not, we're in for an early spring. He's our very own Punxsutawney Phil! You'll have the chance to get up-close and personal with Grady as Naturalist Carlton Burke presents a program all about Grady's groundhog family that's fun for all ages. There's no additional cost with admission, so bring the whole family and spend the day with us.Make Memories with UsThis year, we're focusing on helping you create extraordinary experiences. Whether it's the first time you stand atop the magnificent Chimney and take in the views of Lake Lure, a romantic walk in the woods with your special someone, or your child's first attempt at rock climbing, Chimney Rock Park is the setting for those special moments. We want you to tell us about the magical moments you've had at the Park. Keep an eye out for how you can become a part of "the Rock promotions" by sharing your stories with us.Send Us Your ShotsSpeaking of capturing moments, we're kicking off our Annual Photo Contest a little earlier this year. The contest will run January 15 through December 15. Winners will receive great prizes and may have their photos used in Park ads and promotions! Click here for details. Look for 2007's winners in next month's eNewsletter.Party at the RockDon't forget about us as you're planning parties and get-togethers for the year. Not only can we offer spectacular scenery for your wedding, family reunion, or any kind of group, but we also have full-service catering available. Check out the groups section of our website or call our Group Sales manager Kat Canant at 800-277-9611 ext. *812 for further information and to reserve your special date. Happy, Healthy 2008 - and 'til next month, live it up!
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Chimney Rock Park | Highway 64/74A |
PO Box 39 | Chimney Rock, NC 28720 1-800-277-9611 | visit@chimneyrockpark.com |
