Dine out, do good -- for the Blue Ridge Parkway

"Plates for the Parkway" will happen June 16-19: Restaurants donate a portion of proceeds from meals to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. That supports the Parkway and funds projects that protect its environment and character, from renovations at Mabry Mill to updates to the Price Lake Trail. Two Charlotte restaurants -- Village Tavern and Hickory Tavern on Providence Road -- will participate, along with places in Asheville, Brevard and other towns. Get more info at www.platesfortheparkway.org.