Wheel you be there?: The nonprofit outdoors program for at-risk youth, Eckerd Youth Alternatives, will hold a benefit “Fat Tire Festival” at Camp E-Toh-Kalu, near Brevard, on Saturday, May 18.

The event will consist of two races: “The Back 40,” a fast, 18-mile course that promises “no waterfalls, no slickrock, less horse poop and lots of rocks,” according to the festival flyer; and “The Slower Seven,” a more moderately paced 7-mile course aimed at “those who should have skipped dessert last night.”

Also taking place will be children’s activities, trout fishing and live music. Early registration is $30 for the longer ride, $20 for the shorter, until May 13. Late and day-of registration is $10 more for each event. Entrance fees include a meal for riders.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m. the day of the race, with rides setting out at 10 and 10:30 a.m.

Camp E-Toh-Kalu is located at 1079 Sky Valley Road, bordering DuPont State Forest. For more information, call (800) 237-0308 or visit http://www.active.com and enter event code 1505747.

Enter the dragons: Lake Lure will celebrate its first annual “Lure of the Dragons” boat races and cultural festival on Saturday, May 10. More than 300 paddlers are expected to stroke the waters of the Rocky Broad River and Lake Lure in vessels done up Asian-style. 

The event, which is free, runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will include an extraordinary mix of bluegrass, clogging, square dancing, gospel singing, lion dancing, sword dancing, Kung Fu and Tai Chi, all in support of children’s programs. For details, visit http://www.lureofthedragons.org or call 980-8838.

High atop Mount Mitchell, an air monitor installed by the state tracks ozone. Oddly enough, it sometimes detects unsafe levels of the pollutant, a respiratory irritant, in the middle of the night—when no cars are passing through, and temperatures have dropped far below the level favorable for ozone formation. Why?

O No: It’s officially ozone season. Tailpipe emissions from cars and trucks generate the lion’s share of ozone polution locally.

The wind actually carries the midday pollution up from the valleys to the ridgeline where, many hours later, it’s picked up by the monitor.

Air-quality engineers call this kind of displaced pollution “transport.” It’s often cited as a principal reason for Asheville’s subpar air quality: Winds from eastern Tennessee, for example, carry ozone-forming gases and particulate matter to Asheville—a “bowl” nestled in the mountains—and under the right conditions, the smog just lingers. But according to Engineering Supervisor Ashley Featherstone of the Western North Carolina Regional Air Quality Agency, transport from outside sources is only one piece of the puzzle. “Any locally generated pollution exacerbates the problem,” she noted at an April 29 ozone forum hosted by the Land-of-Sky Regional Council. Tailpipe emissions from cars and trucks, she added, are the No. 1 local contributor to the area’s air-quality problems.

Every summer, a combination of higher temperatures, increased demand for electricity and more traffic causes local ozone levels to rise. On bad-air days, hospitals admit more patients suffering from respiratory issues and heart problems. And a recent change in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ozone standards will probably mean more “yellow” and “orange” ozone days this spring and summer than in previous years, noted EPA staffer Scott Jackson.

The new rule, adopted in March after a review of some 1,700 health studies, establishes a lower threshold for ozone hazard. Although Buncombe County was in compliance with the old standard, the new rule makes the area “very borderline,” said Featherstone. Buncombe County averages about 74 parts per billion, and 75 parts per billion is now considered a violation, she explained. Counties failing to comply with the new standard could lose federal funding for projects such as road construction, and it would be harder to obtain permits for new industrial facilities, according to Paul Muller of the Division of Air Quality. The final word on which areas are in violation won’t come until 2010, however.

Meanwhile, this doesn’t mean that Western North Carolina’s air quality is going downhill. Representatives from both the air agency and Land-of-Sky were quick to point out recent improvements in the region. In 2005, Progress Energy began retrofitting its coal-fired Skyland power plant, drastically reducing the amount of sulfur dioxide spewed into the air. SO2 emissions plummeted from 15,545 tons in 2005 to 528 tons last year. As a result, Buncombe County’s total SO2 emissions dropped 88 percent, according to Featherstone. The technology has also reduced nitrogen-oxide levels, another factor in ozone production.

Leonard Bernstein, who worked on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and won a share of the Nobel Prize awarded to Al Gore and a host of IPCC scientists, spoke briefly about the bigger picture. Globally, humans are releasing some 40 billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere each year, he noted, and that number continues to rise. To avoid the catastrophic effects of climate change, “What we must do is eventually bring net emissions of greenhouse gases close to zero,” he said.

Muller of the Division of Air Quality emphasized that carbon dioxide is not a regulated pollutant: Utilities and other industries can emit substantial quantities of the heat-trapping gas with no legal ramifications. The state agency has launched a voluntary program for large polluters to monitor and report their carbon emissions, he noted, and next year this will become mandatory—a potential first step toward carbon regulation. But with no federal limit in place, said Muller, that move is still a long way off.

Top Drawer wants to get into the minds of Asheville’s notable fashion forecasters, trendsetters and style icons. In this series, we ask boutique owners and designers what inspires them, and what tips they have to pass along. This month, Moe Erin Donnelly of Sew Moe (http://www.sewmoe.com) boasts about the local fashion scene, turns us on to Green Girl Basics soap and admits to having her head in the clouds.

Mountain Xpress

: How long have you been in Asheville, and what prompted your move?

Moe Donnelly

: I’ve been in Asheville for about four-and-a-half years now. It was the mountains that brought me here, and I haven’t regretted a day of it.

Do you follow trends or stick to classics, and why?

I think I do a little bit of both. Many of my designs are adaptations of Victorian styles, then mixed with more modern influences. I love the idea of making bustles and lace acceptable for everyday wear, and I’ve never met a ruffle I didn’t like.

Who is your favorite designer?

I don’t know if I have a favorite designer. There are definitely plenty who I respect and find influential, but honestly our local fashion scene is most inspiring to me. Asheville is home to so many creative designers. I feel lucky to have met other supportive ladies and men who are working hard to put Asheville on the map for fashion. Many of us are forming a designer’s collective called Asheville Fashion Conspiracy. We’re working hard to develop our group into an established support-and-growth network for the designers who help create Asheville’s unique fashion scene. It has been really encouraging to work with so many talented designers in my own town. Good things are to come—keep your eyes open for upcoming Asheville Fashion Conspiracy events.

How would you describe the clothing you design?

I would describe my clothing as being one-of-a-kind, handmade with attention to detail. I design for both men and women and strive to make my pieces classy and comfortable.

What luxuries do you count among your necessities?

Handmade soap! I highly recommend Green Girl Basics soap (http://www.greengirlbasics.com). Words cannot describe how great this soap is, and it’s local.

Which one item (or outfit, or accessory) in your wardrobe is your foolproof piece?

Right now my foolproof accessories are polka dots. I’m not really sure why, but most of my personal wardrobe is polka-dotted. They just put me in a good mood. I’ve learned not to question these things, just go with them.

Where is your favorite Asheville hangout?

Truthfully, dinner with friends or movies at home is more like it. During the day I make time to get outside and enjoy the mountains around Asheville. Spending time outdoors gives me ideas for new designs and directions. The mountains are so accessible from my doorstep; it’s easy to step out and get my head up in the clouds.

Try this on

Just in time for Mother’s Day, the

Folk Arts Center

(Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville) hosts a Fiber Weekend. Craft demonstrations and hands-on projects for kids take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 10. The theme for Sunday, May 11, is “Garden Party” with a wearable-art fashion show at 1 and 3 p.m. Bring mom to check out woven jackets and wraps, felted handbags, painted and marbled silk scarves and shirts ranging in design style from classic to funky. Info: http://www.craftguild.org or 298-7928.

As we crest the hump of chilly spring days, the hints of warm sun bring thoughts of summer vacation. As a parent, how can you sift through the hundreds of summer camps available in Western North Carolina and elsewhere and be reasonably confident that your child will have a happy and successful camp experience? Research and preparation are key considerations, as well as keeping in touch with your child’s needs and aspirations.

Youth adventure: Kayaks await their next excursion at one of WNC’s many summer camps. Photo By Anna Ferguson

The Internet is an excellent place to start. Among the best Web sites are: the American Camp Association (http://www.acacamps.org), the Children & Nature Network (http://www.cnaturenet.org) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (http://www.aap.org).

No risky business

Safety is crucial. It’s essential to examine the risk-management techniques of any group whose business involves taking care of people. All camps, especially adventure-based programs, need to have a solid record of safety and proactive risk-management protocols.

Call the camp’s administrative office and ask directly about its safety record—don’t be shy. If they are real professionals, they’ll answer your questions directly and openly. Staffing is another vital component of risk management. Ask how employees are hired, screened and trained, as well as the level of experience required. Background checks should be standard—if they’re not, find another camp.

Philosophy is not just for Socrates

Another way to evaluate summer camps is to consider its mission or philosophy. Why was the camp created in the first place? This could help you narrow your choices. If you’re looking for a faith-based group, inquire through your church or place of worship. If you’re seeking a weight-loss camp or rock-climbing adventure, ask the admissions staff about what they hope to provide for your child while he or she is in their care. Do they aim to impart certain skills or a boost in self-confidence? A camp’s philosophy can have a direct impact on your child’s experience there.

Dust off the history books

While we all know that quality and quantity are not the same thing, it’s important to ask how long a camp has been around. The longer a camp has been in operation, the greater the odds that it’s doing something right.

Ask about the camp’s history and what changes it’s been through: Did it start as an arts camp and then add an adventure program? Is this the first year a music program has been offered? Don’t take promotional materials at face value—be sure to check out the specifics.

What did you do last summer?

One of the most effective ways to find out what a camp is really like is to talk to someone who’s been there. As with other businesses, word of mouth is one of the best ways to gauge a camp’s quality.

Most camps can help you with this, and if your child is old enough, have them talk directly (on the phone or in person) with a former camper. As many parents know, peer endorsements are one way to convince a teenager of the benefits of an experience.

Give the gift of a new hobby or skill

Another element to consider when choosing a camp is your child’s hopes and dreams. What do they love? Horseback riding or video games? Do they dig rock climbing, or would they rather paint the day away? Try to choose the camp within your means that aligns most closely with the child’s passions and aspirations yet can also also expose him or her to new things—whether it’s a different way to think about life or a new approach to playing a favorite instrument. Equally important to consider are areas where your child might have challenges. Do they need a little more self-confidence? Is there a health issue? All of these questions can help lead you to the right camp for your child.

Talk, talk, talk it out

Last but definitely not least, talk with your child about summer camp. If you have a preteen or teenager, give them several options and let them choose the camp. Be realistic about their abilities, and don’t overschedule them during their summer break: If they’re stressed or just not interested in the activities offered, you may have wasted your investment in the camp. A conversation with your child about his or her upcoming experience is definitely a key to creating happy memories—and maybe even a return trip next year. 

As we crest the hump of chilly spring days, the hints of warm sun bring thoughts of summer vacation. As a parent, how can you sift through the hundreds of summer camps available in Western North Carolina and elsewhere and be reasonably confident that your child will have a happy and successful camp experience? Research and preparation are key considerations, as well as keeping in touch with your child’s needs and aspirations.

Youth adventure: Kayaks await their next excursion at one of WNC’s many summer camps. Photo By Anna Ferguson

The Internet is an excellent place to start. Among the best Web sites are: the American Camp Association (http://www.acacamps.org), the Children & Nature Network (http://www.cnaturenet.org) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (http://www.aap.org).

No risky business

Safety is crucial. It’s essential to examine the risk-management techniques of any group whose business involves taking care of people. All camps, especially adventure-based programs, need to have a solid record of safety and proactive risk-management protocols.

Call the camp’s administrative office and ask directly about its safety record—don’t be shy. If they are real professionals, they’ll answer your questions directly and openly. Staffing is another vital component of risk management. Ask how employees are hired, screened and trained, as well as the level of experience required. Background checks should be standard—if they’re not, find another camp.

Philosophy is not just for Socrates

Another way to evaluate summer camps is to consider its mission or philosophy. Why was the camp created in the first place? This could help you narrow your choices. If you’re looking for a faith-based group, inquire through your church or place of worship. If you’re seeking a weight-loss camp or rock-climbing adventure, ask the admissions staff about what they hope to provide for your child while he or she is in their care. Do they aim to impart certain skills or a boost in self-confidence? A camp’s philosophy can have a direct impact on your child’s experience there.

Dust off the history books

While we all know that quality and quantity are not the same thing, it’s important to ask how long a camp has been around. The longer a camp has been in operation, the greater the odds that it’s doing something right.

Ask about the camp’s history and what changes it’s been through: Did it start as an arts camp and then add an adventure program? Is this the first year a music program has been offered? Don’t take promotional materials at face value—be sure to check out the specifics.

What did you do last summer?

One of the most effective ways to find out what a camp is really like is to talk to someone who’s been there. As with other businesses, word of mouth is one of the best ways to gauge a camp’s quality.

Most camps can help you with this, and if your child is old enough, have them talk directly (on the phone or in person) with a former camper. As many parents know, peer endorsements are one way to convince a teenager of the benefits of an experience.

Give the gift of a new hobby or skill

Another element to consider when choosing a camp is your child’s hopes and dreams. What do they love? Horseback riding or video games? Do they dig rock climbing, or would they rather paint the day away? Try to choose the camp within your means that aligns most closely with the child’s passions and aspirations yet can also also expose him or her to new things—whether it’s a different way to think about life or a new approach to playing a favorite instrument. Equally important to consider are areas where your child might have challenges. Do they need a little more self-confidence? Is there a health issue? All of these questions can help lead you to the right camp for your child.

Talk, talk, talk it out

Last but definitely not least, talk with your child about summer camp. If you have a preteen or teenager, give them several options and let them choose the camp. Be realistic about their abilities, and don’t overschedule them during their summer break: If they’re stressed or just not interested in the activities offered, you may have wasted your investment in the camp. A conversation with your child about his or her upcoming experience is definitely a key to creating happy memories—and maybe even a return trip next year.