Shortcuts June 20 2001
TAMPA, FLA.
If you can’t afford to run away with the circus, you can at least get the adrenaline pumping with a high-wire act. The Museum of Science & Industry recently opened a permanent exhibit featuring the longest high-wire bicycle in a U.S. museum. Guests to the museum can ride the bike along a 98-foot-long, one-inch steel cable suspended 30 feet above the ground. Never fear, the bicycle is counterweighted and though it is impossible for the two-wheeler to turn over, riders are harnessed onto the bike and a safety net is placed below. Museum hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. $9-$13. 4801 E. Fowler Ave. 813-987-6100 or www.mosi.org.
LINVILLE, N.C.
Founded in 1924, Singing on the Mountain returns for its 77th year. It’s one of the oldest ongoing gospel sings in the Southern Appalachians with a church bazaar and dinner on the grounds. Appearing at the June 24 event are Arthur Smith, George Hamilton IV, Michael Combs, the Primatives and many more. Motivational speaker Zig Ziglar will give the sermon. Music begins at 8:30 a.m.; sermon is at 1 p.m. Free admission. Camping is available. U.S. Highway 221, two miles north of Linville. 800-4MT-PEAK or www.grandfather.com.
HILTON HEAD, S.C.
Getting to Know a Gator With Gatorland is the first of three programs allowing visitors to the Coastal Discovery Museum to hold an alligator and learn folklore attached to the swamp creature. Three gators are featured in different stages of their lives, from a hatchling to a 3-footer. The first program is July 21; following dates are July 12 and Aug. 2. $2 donation suggested. 100 William Hilton Parkway. 843-689-6767 or www.coastaldiscovery.org.
NASHVILLE, TENN.
Dealers and vendors from 30 states offer their wares during what’s touted as one of the top 10 flea markets in the country. A variety of gifts, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, handmade clothing and more are available. The monthly event comes to the Tennessee State Fairgrounds June 23-24. Sat. 6 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. $2 parking fee. Located off I-440. 615-862-5016 or www.tennesseestatefair.org.??