2015
my BLOWING hometown scenic beauty and gracious,
ROCK
comfortable mountain living
Retail ∙ Entertainment ∙ Restaurants ∙ Events ∙ Important Numbers Utilities ∙ The Chamber of Commerce ∙ Civic Groups and Much More!
Supplement to
Blowing Rock My Hometown
Page 2
June 25, 2015
About this publication “Blowing Rock: My Hometown” is joint venture between The Blowing Rocket and The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. Now in its fourth year of publication, “Blowing Rock: My Hometown” won first place in the 2014 North Carolina Press Association’s Editorial Awards in the “Best Niche Publication” category. “Blowing Rock: My Hometown” aims to help visitors to our area, whether it be for a weekend stay, a summer retreat or a possible retirement destination. It also contains information that should prove useful for full time residents. The mission of the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce is “to promote, protect and improve business through the cultural, social and economic development, growth and sustainability of Blowing Rock while preserving the charm and character of the village.” The chamber of commerce is governed by a board of directors composed of business members from a variety of business types and individual member representatives. There are several standing committees including Economic Development, Events, Finance, Business Support, Membership, and Community and Government.
Blowing Rock is a quiet little town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains with small, unique shops for visitors. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
Blowing Rock: A Little History By JEFF EASON editor@blowingrocket.com
T
he town of Blowing Rock was chartered and incorporated on March 11, 1889, with “Uncle Joe” Clarke serving as the town’s first
mayor. Before the town was officially a “town,” however, it was already a summer destination for folks attempting to escape the oppressive heat of Raleigh, Charlotte or Atlanta. And since the 1700s, the area has been home to settlers from Germany, Britain, Scotland and other countries. The first population growth of any note came during the Civil War, when many men sent their families to the mountains to seek refuge from more war-torn areas of the South, and then joined them up here afterward. By the late 1800s and early 1900s, Blowing Rock had established itself as a summer resort community and the people who lived here full time established comfortable hotels, inns and cabins for the “cottagers” who returned every year. Two fires that whipped through the
town in the early part of the 20th century led many business owners to rebuild their structures with the distinctive bluish gray stone that is found in the high country. More durable than wood, and cheaper than bricks, it was used extensively during for homes, hotels and businesses along Main Street, giving downtown Blowing Rock its classic “stone” look today. Kids in Blowing Rock attended the local school from kindergarten through twelfth grade until 1965 when all of the high school students merged into the newly constructed countywide Watauga High School. Today, Blowing Rock School goes from kindergarten through eighth grade.
Today Today, approximately 1,200 people live year round inside Blowing Rock city limits, with that number multiplying by five or six in June, July and August. The economy of Blowing Rock is most definitely tourism driven, with tens of thousands of visitors coming to the area each year to enjoy the culture, scenery, shops, restaurants and attractions of Blowing Rock.
Festivities, such as the Fourth of July, draw locals and tourists from around the area to enjoy the hospitality that Blowing Rock provides. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
About the cover:
The cover photo was taken by Todd Bush of a group of diners enjoying the outdoor seating at the Village Cafe in downtown Blowing Rock. Bush has recently published a coffee table book of photographs titled “Blowing Rock: Crown of the Blue Ridge.” For more information, visit www.bushphoto.com. COVER BY TODD BUSH
June 25, 2015
Blowing Rock My Hometown
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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Welcome to
Blowing Rock
A
s mayor of Blowing Rock it is my pleasure to welcome and thank you for choosing our lovely village as your vacation destination or maybe even your new address! Prepare yourself to enjoy fine dining, unique shopping, superior accommodations and year-round activities for everyone in your family. Our state-of-the-art Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is a must see to fully appreciate the great history of our town. The Ensemble Stage Company provides professional theater for your enjoyment. Whether taking advantage of the many things to see and do or just sitting and letting the beauty of the mountains of Western North Carolina sink in, our hope is that you will find the beauty and charm that make Blowing Rock the special place it is. Once again, on behalf of the citizens and merchants of Blowing Rock we welcome you to enjoy our piece of heaven! Sincerely, J. B. Lawrence Mayor
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What makes Blowing Rock unique? Special by Blowing Rock TDA
T
he Town of Blowing Rock is a unique, year-round mountain destination in North Carolina’s High Country known as the Crown of the Blue Ridge. At 4,000 feet in elevation, it sits astride the Eastern Continental Divide, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, and from the top of Blowing Rock (yes, there IS one) there are commanding views of layer upon layer of gorgeous mountain scenery. Blowing Rock features four distinct seasons: It’s a festival of wild blooms in the spring, cool in the summer, dazzling with color in the fall and a Currier and Ives portrait in the winter. Activities such as hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, mountain and road cycling, rock climbing, fishing and hunting are close at hand, along with skiing and other snow sports in the winter. Blowing Rock has been welcoming visitors since the 1880s. Reminiscent of a small New England village, it has a population of just 1,500 that grows to nearly
8,000 during the summer and fall months. It’s unique as a tourist destination, with virtually no chain hotels, fast-food places or strip malls. Lodging and dining venues are locally owned and operated, many in historic buildings constructed with local natural materials. Accommodations for overnight guests are diverse; visitors can choose from among a variety of small inns, rustic cabins, and bed & breakfasts, along with the famous Chetola Resort. The acclaimed Westglow Resort & Spa is nearby as well. Blowing Rock’s sophisticated small-town atmosphere inspired best-selling author and former resident Jan Karon to pen her famed Mitford series. To celebrate the much-loved series, two Mitford Days festivals were planned and presented for fans. The events were well-attended and the neighborly atmosphere proved that Blowing Rock really is Mitford in spirit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is the heart of the area, and it connects Blowing Rock with miles of beauty, cultural and UNIQUE – Continued on Page 5
Blowing Rock My Hometown
June 25, 2015
Page 5
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FROM PAGE 3 historical sites, and recreation. Within easy Parkway driving distance is Grandfather Mountain, a spectacular biosphere reserve with a mile-high swinging bridge, wildlife habitats and incredible views (grandfather.com). Other area attractions include Tweetsie Railroad, Linville Caverns, Mystery Hill and the town of Boone, home of Appalachian State University. Ten years in the making, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) is located in the heart of downtown, where it hosts exhibits, educational programs and classes that promote the visual arts, history and heritage of the mountains of Western North Carolina. The building blends with the surrounding natural environment, incorporating architectural elements that include 16-inch Douglas fir timbers bound by iron banding, river stone and cedar siding. BRAHM opened to the public on Oct. 1, 2011. Events enliven and enhance the visitor’s experience throughout the year, such as the long-running Saturday Art in the Park, May through October. Now in its 50th year, the renowned Art in the Park series features the works of juried artisans in watercolor, oil painting, fiber, metal, wood, basketry, glass, clay, jewelry, photography and more. Blowing Rock is also well known for its fine art galleries, most of which are within a few blocks of each other. Arts entertainment is provided by Ensemble Stage Company, a professional theater group.
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Whether you are looking for a luxurious nights sleep for yourself or if you need something inexpensive for a guest bedroom we can ďŹ t every need and budget. The North Carolina Shriners cruise down Main Street during one of their many Blowing Rock appearances. PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON
Numerous concerts and music series provide even more opportunity for fun and enjoyment. Blowing Rock as a time-honored destination, replete with high-end retail shops, unique restaurants, upscale retreats and charming inns, renowned artists and cultural events, verdant cottage gardens and trails in which to roam, in close proximity to exhilarating outdoor adventures and parks. Blowing Rock has attracted the affluent and the artistic to its tranquil environment for more than 100 years, and history continues to repeat itself as more and more visitors make the journey to discover the lure of Blowing Rock for themselves.
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
June 25, 2015
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
June 25, 2015
Page 7
Investing in our future Blowing Rock under construction in many areas
By JEFF EASON editor@blowingrocket.com
I
t seems as if the majority of Blowing Rock is a hard hat area right now. Wherever you look there are large yellow construction machines and bright orange cones and barrels. While some of this construction can be seen as an inconvenience, it can also be seen as a massive investment in Blowing Rock’s future. Millions of dollars are being spent to make sure that the town has the best roads, health care system and other amenities as possible.
U.S. 321 widening project The most obvious sign of this makeover is the ongoing U.S. 321 widening project. The NCDOT is working with the Town of Blowing Rock and groups such as the Blowing Rock Civic Association to ensure that the project is completed in a timely manner, with as little disruption to traffic,
business and tourism as possible. The NCDOT has stated that the lane shift to the new lanes on Valley Boulevard from South Main Street to Tanger Outlet Shoppes on the Parkway will take place in August or September, 2015. Approximately a year after that, the completed four-lane highway will open.
Chestnut Ridge at Blowing Rock Appalachian Regional Healthcare System’s plan to close the half-century old Blowing Rock Hospital and replace it with the new Chestnut Ridge at Blowing Rock health care facility is ahead of schedule, according to Rob Hudspeth, senior vice president for system advancement at ARHS. Groundbreaking for Chestnut Ridge took place on June 24, 2014 and the new health care facility is schedule to open in March of 2016. It is located on U.S. 321 near the Blue Ridge Parkway across from Edmisten Road.
A rendering of Chestnut Ridge at Blowing Rock shows the front entrance of the health care facility. GRAPHIC SUBMITTED
Chestnut Ridge will offer post-acute care, which includes short- and long-term rehabilitative services, skilled nursing care, memory care support, and palliative care. Chestnut Ridge at Blowing Rock sits on 68 acres that ARHS purchased from two separate landowners. After Chestnut Ridge
is open, ARHS will entertain proposals from companies looking to create an assisted living village next to it. It was recently announced that Chestnut Ridge will also include a primary care FUTURE – Continued on Page 10
Important Phone Numbers in Blowing Rock (All numbers in the 828 area code, except where noted).
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Any Emergency ............................................................................................................... 911 Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue ..................................295-5218 (non-emergency) Blowing Rock Police Department ..............................................295-5212 (non-emergency) Blowing Rock Post Office ................................................................... 295-3589 Blowing Rock Town Hall .........................................................................................295-5200 Planning and Inspections .................................................................. 295-5240 Grover Robbins Pool Complex .................................................................................295-5224 Parks and Recreation ......................................................................... 295-5222 Blowing Rock School ..............................................................................................295-3204 The Blowing Rocket Newspaper ......................................................... 295-7522 Blowing Rock Hospital ............................................................................................295-3136 Village Pharmacy .............................................................................. 295-3482 U.S. 321 Widening Hotline ......................................................................................964-3260 High Country Council of Governments ................................................. 265-5434 High Country Workforce Development Board .........................................................265-5434 Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation ....................................... 264-8894 Appalachian Energy ...............................................................................................295-9563 Blue Ridge Energies .......................................................................... 264-3521 Carolina West Wireless ...................................................................(336) 973-5000 ext. 1250 Charter Business .......................................................................(800) 314-7195 Skyline Membership Corporation ...........................................................................963-1350 Wireless Center/Verizon Wireless ........................................................ 406-4040 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum ..................................................................295-9099
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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June 25, 2015
Blowing Rock My Hometown
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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June 25, 2015
FUTURE FROM PAGE 7 facility and a pharmacy that will be open to the public. According to Hudspeth, ARHS’ fundraising goal for the Chestnut Ridge project is $11.5 million. Of that, $8.881,831 has been raised, leaving a deficit of $2,618,169. Recently, Diane and Dennis Foley made a $3.75 million donation to ARHS and the 112-bed post-acute care facility will be named the Foley Center at Chestnut Ridge.
Rotary Gazebo On Memorial Day weekend, 2015, the new Rotary Gazebo at Blowing Rock Memorial Park was officially unveiled. The new gazebo will serve as a meeting place for visitors and residents, home to the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce’s Summer Concerts in the Park Series, the spot where kids can tell Santa and Mrs. Claus what they want for Christmas and many other events. The gazebo replaces one that was originally opened on July 4, 1976 as part of Blowing Rock’s celebration of our nation’s bicentennial. The Rotary Club of Blowing Rock raised money for the construction of the new gazebo with assistance from a North Carolina Parks and Recreation grant. Other donors involved in the project were New River Building Supply, 4 Forty Four Construction, David Moore Builders, Designcast Concrete, High Country Painting and The Town of Blowing Rock. Curt Andrews and Suzanne Wilson donated $5,700 so that the new gazebo could have a roof of cedar shake shingles instead of slate shingles. In addition to the new gazebo, construction included new walkways surrounding the gazebo and a driveway so that bands can bring their instruments and PA systems to the gazebo.
American Legion Hall All across the United States this year, Americans are
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The new gazebo was introduced to the public on Memorial Day of this year and will serve as a meeting place for visitors and residents. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
celebrating the 70th anniversary of the final days of World War II, an armed conflict that claimed the lives of more than 70 million soldiers and civilians worldwide. Here in Blowing Rock, a group of like-minded people have honored our local World War II veterans by restoring a cherished building that they constructed when they returned to the mountains of North Carolina. According to Shirley Snyder, the Blowing Rock veterans who returned to their hometown used their newly acquired skills to help build the town’s first American Legion Hall. “They got donations for the building and they did most of the work themselves,” said Snyder. The Blowing Rock American Legion Hall opened in the late 1940s and quickly became a focal point for social life in the Village. “There were Saturday night dances with live bands coming up from Lenoir,” said Snyder. “The place was always full of activity, with the wives and girlfriends cooking hot dogs in the kitchen and everybody having so much fun.” Renovations began on the American Legion building last fall, with a majority of the work being done by Greene Construction Company. Improvements include a new outdoor covered deck on the backside of the building overlooking Broyhill Lake, new roof, new floor, new bathrooms, new windows, new water fountains and other amenities. Although it was not included when the town first approved renovations to the building, Commissioner Albert Yount paid $11,000 to have the American Legion’s kitchen completely remodeled in memory of his wife Martha. Other contributors to the project included the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Foundation Grants program ($142,500), the Blowing Rock ABC Store ($65,000), the Blowing Rock Historical Society ($50,000), and the Blowing Rock Community Foundation ($15,000). Additional work for the building and its landscaping was provided by the Blowing Rock Public Works staff.
Blowing Rock School Playground
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The finishing touches of the Blowing Rock School Playground Rejuvenation program’s Phase I have been completed this month. Designed by renowned landscape architect Ron Cutlip, the new playground includes a new large climbing tower,
ropes course, new covered picnic area, paved walkways, rubberized ground surfaces, new retaining walls and more. Phase II of the project will include the construction of an outdoor classroom area with wooden benches, a covered stage and storage facilities, plus and men’s and women’s room. The Blowing Rock School Playground Rejuvenation project started construction last June and has been funded by various PTO fundraisers and private donations.
Bond Referenda Last November, Blowing Rock voters overwhelmingly approved four bond items that would allow the town to borrow 13 million dollars for capital improvements for water, sewer, parks and recreation facilities, and for streets and sidewalks. All four bond items passed with at least 70 percent of Blowing Rock voters approving them, led by a $1 million dollar sewer improvement bond that 81.85% of voters approved. Supporters of the bonds hope the influx of capital improvement money will increase the pace of infrastructure improvements in town, many of which were neglected during the recession.
Here is a breakdown of the voting: • Blowing Rock voters approved the proposed Water System Bonds 507 to 132 “authorizing up to $2 million of general obligation bonds, plus interest, of the Town of Blowing Rock, for the purpose of paying capital costs of providing water systems, including without limitation facilities for the supply, storage, treatment and distribution of water and related costs, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and the interest on bonds, as adopted by the Blowing Rock Town Council on July 29, 2014.” • Blowing Rock voters approved the proposed Sanitary Sewer Systems Bonds 518 to 121 “authorizing up to $1 million of general obligation bonds, plus interest, of the Town of Blowing Rock, for the purpose of paying capital costs of providing sanitary sewer systems, including without limitation community sewer facilities for the collection, FUTURE – Continued on Page 12
Blowing Rock My Hometown
June 25, 2015
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June 25, 2015 Over the past two years, two new sections near Tweetsie Railroad and Mystery Hill have been added to the Middle Fork Greenway. The next section to be completed is “Section 1,” a portion of the trail that will lead out of downtown Blowing Rock, past the new Chestnut Ridge health care facility. This past Easter, more than 50 local businesses joined forces and donated a portion of that weekend’s proceeds toward the Middle Fork Greenway Initiative. Led by Appalachian Ski Mountain, the fundraising weekend raised more than $50,000 for the project. For more information on the Middle Fork Greenway project, visit www.middleforkgreenway.org.
FUTURE FROM PAGE 10 treatment, and disposal of sewage or septic tank systems and other on-site collection and disposal facilities or systems and related costs, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds, as adopted by the Blowing Rock Town Council on July 29, 2014.” • Blowing Rock voters approved the proposed Streets and Sidewalks Bonds 472 to 170 “authorizing up to $9 million of general obligation bonds, plus interest, of the Town of Blowing Rock, for the purpose of paying capital costs of providing streets and sidewalks, including without limitation bridges and alleys; paving, grading, resurfacing, and widening streets; sidewalks; curbs and gutters; culverts and drains; traffic controls, signals and markers; lighting; and grade crossings and the elimination thereof and grade separations, and related costs and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of an interest on the bonds, as adopted by the Blowing Rock Town Council on July 29, 2014.” • Finally, Blowing Rock voters approved the proposed Parks and Recreation Facilities Bonds 469 to 175 “authorizing up to $1 million of general obligation bonds,
The Blowing Rock School Playground Rejuvenation project started construction last June and has been funded by various PTO fundraisers and private donations. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
plus interest, of the Town of Blowing Rock, for the purpose of paying capital costs of providing parks and recreation facilities, including without limitation land, athletic fields, parks, playgrounds, recreation centers, shelters, permanent and temporary stands, swimming pools, and lighting, and related costs, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds, as adopted by the Blowing Rock Town Council on July 29, 2014. In June 2015, Blowing Rock commissioners voted unanimously to approve
a two-cent property tax increase from 31-cents to 33-cents per hundred dollars of value to help pay for the bond referenda.
Greenway Trail Initiative The Middle Fork Greenway Association was formed in 2000 as a volunteer organization to help promote hiking and trail biking in the High Country. For the past few years, the organization has been working to complete a paved trail that will eventually connect Blowing Rock with Boone’s Greenway Trail.
Other projects Blowing Rock can look forward to a lot of new facilities opening up in the next few years. They include Appalachian Ski Mountain’s new Welcome Center at the corner of U.S. 321 and Edmisten Road, a new Blowing Rock Country Club Fitness Center and the Mountain Leaf development, located on Main Street between the entrance to Chetola Resort and Hill Street. The Town also has plans to construct three new entrances to town as part of the “Gateway Project.” They will be located at Main Street near Shoppes on the Parkway, just below the Green Park Inn, and on the corner of U.S. 321 and Sunset Drive.
Blowing Rock My Hometown
June 25, 2015
Page 13
And the Award goes to ... Blowing Rock honored by numerous outside agencies
By JEFF EASON editor@blowingrocket.com
Y
ou don’t have to live in Blowing Rock to appreciate it … but it certainly helps. Every year, Blowing Rock is recognized by a number of outside organizations and publications for its beauty, activities and overall friendliness. Here’s a short list (compiled from a much longer list) of recent awards and honors Blowing Rock has received from folks who don’t even live here. Blowing Rock was named: • North Carolina’s Prettiest Small Town by a panel of Southeastern travel journalists, beating out places such as South Port and Southern Pines. • One of America’s Prettiest
Winter Towns by Travel+Leisure magazine. • Favorite Mountain Destination by Our State magazine. • Best Mountain Town by Blue Ridge Country magazine. • Best Day Trip by The WinstonSalem Journal. • Platinum award for Art in the Park/Best Arts/crafts Show, Gold award for Best Main Street and Silver awards for Best Arts Town and Best Shopping in the 2013 Blue Ridge Country’s “Best of the Mountains” readers poll. Winners were selected from candidates in Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, Georgia, South Carolina and Alabama. • A 2013 “Great Places in North Carolina” Award from the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association for Blowing Rock’s Main Street area.
One of the places that makes Blowing Rock one of the best day trips is Bass Lake, which has places to picnic, fish and hike. You can even stroll up to Cone Manor and hike/horse ride all of the carriage trails. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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June 25, 2015
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Blowing Rock My Hometown By GINNY STEVENS
W
hen I am working at the 1888 Museum or Edgewood Cottage I find that our guests want to know what it’s like to live in Blowing Rock, which has made me think about all the components that have filled my life since we bought our house here in 1985, and there are many pieces of that puzzle. They all meld together to make our choice of Blowing Rock for our retirement years the best of all the options. We really enjoy the deer and turkeys that come through the yard daily, which will always be a distinctive pleasure of living here. First of all, the village and the surrounding mountains are not only beautiful to behold, but a nurturing place to call home. The beautiful scenery that surrounds us daily is an inspiration, both visually and emotionally. Winters in the snow are idyllic with the exception of ice storms, and that makes it easy to stay home, snuggle in and read a good book. Snow is not usually a constraint to venturing out, as our road crew comes to plow at 6:30 a.m. and is pouring salt on the roads by 7:30 a.m. in our neighborhood, making the roads quite accessible. ... we do have four-wheel drive on both cars, however. Spring and fall are both colorful, with perfect temperatures, and we await the blooming jonquils, peonies, iris and other
harbingers of spring or the colorful leaves and crisp breezes of autumn. Summers have always filled the village with guests who come to the delightful 75-85 degree temperatures and the attendant activities outside: swimming, hiking, exploring, tennis, golf, and the special events put on by the variety of organizations in town as well as Chamber of Commerce, Horse Show Board, House and Garden tours, BRAHM and Historical Society events as well as the Blowing Rock Foundation and Rotary activities. The churches also play a very important role in this area, as does the Town Parks and Recreation Department. There seem to be far too many things to attend but there are a greatly increased number of people to host and entertain and the community arises to meet the need. All of these activities require a guiding hand and much camaraderie in gathering together to plan and present these activities, which leads me to talk about the people of our town, who work exceptionally hard to make the kind of activities that bring people to the village, as we are all very much aware that our economy is dependant upon bringing guests and visitors to the village. Thousands of volunteer hours are invested by the residents of Blowing Rock in the beautification of town and the organization and planning of activities presented by the village, to appeal to residents and visitors. HOMETOWN – Continued on Page 15
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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HOMETOWN FROM PAGE 14 With all the pleasures of interesting shopping and eating in the exciting village restaurants, there is more than ample opportunity to enjoy the fellowship and leadership of our permanent residents. In the 1989 Town survey, 88% of the population stated that their primary interest was to keep the historic character of the village, and we are still working hard to maintain that goal. The Blowing Rock Country Club has a full schedule of activities from May to October for its membership, and hosts many of the local organizations’ benefits and special events throughout the summer. This is a beautiful and popular venue for extraordinary fundraisers, hosted by the Blowing Rock Hospital and others who help support the community. The staff at Town Hall, under the leadership of Town Manager, Scott Fogleman, has a special place in the hearts of permanent residents, as they are every ready to assist and problem-solve. Tony Jones, our chief of police, and his well-trained officers have a “can do” attitude, as does the entire fire department and emergency crew, with Kent Graham at the head. Each fall we have the Hometown Harvest Supper for the entire village in November, where we
gather for fellowship and the chance to know each other a little bit better. This is popular celebration will be November 15, 2015 for the eighth time at the Fire Station. Our Mayor, J.B. Lawrence and wife, Lynn, lead our elected officials, and the board of five commissioners are responsible for the Town’s well being, and the boards under their tutelage. These elected officials have a difficult job of pleasing everyone all the time, and for the most part have done an excellent job of keeping the town alive and well. We have a number of special celebrations around the Christmas holidays, with a parade the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and the lighting of the huge tree in front of town hall. (I forgot to mention the Independence Day parade, a typical Norman Rockwell celebration of our town, with bicycles, horses, floats and much merriment including our town clown, Bobby Ball). There is certainly more to do than one could possibly do alone, and I hasten to mention the kindness of our citizenry, now that I am using a cane, and have a constant barrage of folks asking to help me load things in my car, or assist in some manner. I know that would not be the case in a larger location, and am ever grateful that so many people stop to assist me, and feel this may be unique to the High Country and Blowing Rock. Living here is the best of all worlds as far as my husband and I are concerned.
Page 15
Bass Lake provides a view to Cone Manor. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
We have been nurtured and loved and found so many treasured memories that are unique to Blowing Rock, its people, and the beautiful mountains that we feel we could have no better place to live; we count our blessings daily and know that we have made the best choice to share this
“Shangri-la” with all of the other residents who enjoy this paradise with us. Editor’s note: Ginny Stevens is an active member of the Blowing Rock Historical Society and helps coordinate the Artists in Residence series at Edgewood Cottage.
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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June 25, 2015
Blowing Rock Real Estate Snapshot
M
Living the dream is more approachable than you might think
any people who visit the lovely town of Blowing Rock have an idea that it would be wonderful to own a home here and then dismiss it as being out of their reach. While the prestigious Blowing Rock zip code has traditionally been one of the more expensive areas in the Southeast, prices have dropped significantly since the recession. Affordability is enhanced with the continued low interest rates. The past 12 month median sales price for residential properties (single family homes and condos) in Blowing Rock was $303,450, with and average sale price of $395,589. Compare that to the same period six years ago at the peak of the market when the median price was $422,000 and average sold price was $505,752.
Picking up Pace, Still a Buyer’s Market 2015 has seen a marked increase in sales pace, with 35% more homes sold through mid-June than last year, with a slight decrease in sales price. However, versus nationwide trends, Blowing Rock still has
about 2 years’ worth of inventory. Home inventory levels above 6-9 months indicate buyer’s market conditions. In Blowing Rock the primary driver of market trends is the large percentage of second homes, a market segment that is just now moving into full recovery.
Blowing Rock Home Styles and Areas There are many different areas and neighborhoods in the Blowing Rock area, offering homes of all styles and price ranges. What you will not find in Blowing Rock are large subdivisions with very similar homes or ‘McMansions.’ While this is no means an exhaustive list, it should give an overview to the area. The town of Blowing Rock is known for its grand homes along Main Street and in historic Mayview Park and its elegant homes in Echo Park and around the Blowing Rock Country Club. You will also see the quaint homes and cottages throughout town and in the neighborhoods along U.S. Folks moving to Blowing Rock have their choice of condos, apartments and stand-alone homes. SNAPSHOT – Continued on Page 20 PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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June 25, 2015
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
June 25, 2015
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For Your Dining and Lodging Pleasure!
SUNSET DRIVE • BLOWING ROCK
Regional Fare & Drink
(one block off Main Street)
Serving Dinner Six Days a Week
RESTAURANT: 828.295.3466
Closed Mondays • Outdoor Seating Available
Serving Dinner
INN: 828.295.9703
7179 Valley Blvd • Blowing Rock, NC
12 Rooms & Suites and 3-Bedroom Cottage
(across from Tanger Outlet)
www.Ragged-Gardens.com
828.414.9508 • Roots-Restaurant.com
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2015 Outdoor Event
Rain or Shine
434 Rock Road Blowing Rock, N.C. Gates open at 10:00 a.m. Entertainers 12:00 p.m. to Sunset Presented by The Blowing Rock
ENTERTAINERS: The Harris Brothers & Their Very Greasy Friends (Big Band) Lacy Green The Moore Brothers Band Steve Davidowski & Xenobilly Shelby Rae Moore Mitch Clark & Masten Cloer The Buck Haggard Band The Nautical Wheelers Carolina Ray and Cecil Palmer Johnny Green Charlie Carpenter
TICKETS GO ON SALE JULY 15TH Day of: $40 VIP tents available
Advance: $30 Advance reserved seating: $40 Children under 12 years old: $10 Lawn chairs and coolers welcome Overnight packages available
TICKETS ON SALE AT: The Blowing Rock Attraction Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce
828-295-7183 800-295-7851
SPONSORS: Blowing Rock Ale House and Inn Canyons Restaurant Woodlands Barbecue Green Park Inn Shorepark LLC The Blowing Rock Market Meadowbrook Inn Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock The Town Tavern of Blowing Rock Tweetsie Railroad The New Public House & Hotel
A North Carolina Tradition. Iconic Views and Unique Gift Shop theblowingrock.com • 828-295-7111 • 432 Rock Road • Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock My Hometown
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SNAPSHOTS FROM PAGE 16 221 South that follow the Johns River Gorge with amazing views. Do not let the age of any of these homes fool you! Many of the older homes have been transformed inside with impressive contemporary mountain style renovations. Following U.S. 321 north toward Boone one of the largest residential areas is Appalachian Ski Mountain, with many mountain and log homes close to skiing. This is a popular location for vacation rentals and many owners choose to put their homes in vacation rental programs to generate income. Also along U.S. 321 are luxury subdivisions, most with newer custom built mountain homes, as well as log home neighborhoods where owners and vacationers enjoy the true mountain experience. Take the Blue Ridge Parkway north from Blowing
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Rock and you will find several established neighborhoods with mid-range to high end homes. This general area is referred to on maps as the Aho area and includes the Sorrento, Greystone, Blackberry and Goshen neighborhoods, to name a few. Some of these neighborhoods are in the Boone zip code but are considered the Blowing Rock area from a Real Estate standpoint (with many of these neighborhoods residing in the Blowing Rock School district). If you are looking for a maintenance free home or more amenities, there are a range of condominium complexes to meet your needs. In town the largest condo development is Chetola Resort, which also boasts a hotel, fine dining restaurant and spa. Condominium developments are also along Main Street, near the Green Park in and in other areas closer in to town. Leslie B. Eason, REALTORÂŽ, MBAL EASON@ BOONE.NET
Blowing Rock and its surrounding areas have churches of nearly every denomination. St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church in Blowing Rock was ďŹ rst built in 1918 and dedicated in 1921.
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PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
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Classic Surroundings, Modern Amenities
Music on the Veranda • Sundays at 5pm
Linville Falls is a spectacular waterfall that has cut its way into the rock for many years and it is just a short drive from Blowing Rock off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
Top 40 reasons to live in the High Country From the High Country Association of Realtors
W
e recently lost one of the most beloved disc jockeys of the 20th century when Casey Kasem passed away earlier last year. Kasem was world famous for his American Top Forty broadcast in which he counted down the most popular songs in the land. The High Country Association of Realtors has come up with its own Top 40 list. It’s called “40 Reasons to Live the Dream in the High Country” and it lists, in no particular order, some of the many events, neighbors and intangibles that make the North Carolina High Country uniquely special.
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areas in North Carolina.
#5 – HICKORY CRAWDADS BASEBALL LP Frans Stadium is located about an hour south of Blowing Rock. It’s a straight drive down 321.
#6 – HEALTHY LIVING The three counties of the High Country all ranked among the top 50 counties in North Carolina when it comes to the health of its residents, according to one national report.
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#7 – MOSES CONE FIRETOWER TRAIL Beginning at Moses Cone Manor, it ends at its namesake, a firetower open to sightseeing. The trail is about 5 miles in length and includes a 1,000 foot elevation change.
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#1 – THE NATURAL BEAUTY The beautiful view from the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain includes much of the High Country area.
#2 – THE GREAT OUTDOORS There’s hiking, biking, fishing, rafting and rock climbing, just to name a few. The opportunities for outdoor play are limitless.
#3 – TURCHIN CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS Located in downtown Boone, the center presents exhibitions, collections and educational programs open to the public.
#8 – MERLEFEST Held on a community college campus with more than a dozen stages and nearcontinuous music, Merlefest annually attracts a lineup of singers, pickers and players from all over the country.
The Boone area, along with nearby Linville Gorge, are among the top 20 birding
Fine Art Local Art Gallery
#9 – NEW RIVER MARATHON The course spreads over an elevation change of roughly 100 feet. It follows along the South Fork New River, one of only 14 American Heritage Rivers in the United States.
#10 – MOUNTAIN BIKE PARKS #4 – A GREAT PLACE TO DO SOME BIRDING
ESTD. 1882
The list of outdoor activities available REASONS – Continued on Page 23
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REASONS FROM PAGE 21 to the High Country got longer in 2011, thanks to the opening of two great mountain bike parks. One is in Boone, the other in Beech Mountain.
#11 – RIDE SOME RAPIDS The High Country is home to many rivers, most serene. But one stands out for its pure kayaking magnetism – Elk River.
#12 – THE HEBRON ROCK COLONY Located 20 minutes and a hike outside of Boone, it’s popular with locals who know all the best spots to splash and play.
#13 – NEW RIVER CANOE RACE One of the most popular summer events in Ashe County covers five miles of cool water.
#14 – BLOWING ROCK HORSE SHOW It was 1923 when equestrian enthusiasts first gathered in the High Country to celebrate their affections. 92 years later the show is still going on.
#15 – HORN IN THE WEST Horn in the West has all the ingredients of a summer blockbuster. Fire dances. Gun fights. Emotional bonds. Duel loyalties. And drama.
#16 – APPALACHIAN ROLLERGIRLS One of the benefits of small town living – One person with one idea can make fun happen.
The Blowing Rock Horse Show is still going strong after 92 years of competition. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
Held at the base of Grandfather Mountain, the Singing attracts thousands of gospel performers and fans for a outdoor celebration of music.
#19 – AN APPALACHIAN SUMMER FESTIVAL One of the country’s largest regional arts festivals, attracts more than 26,000 people to its schedule of art, dance, music and stage.
celebrating all that’s good in the Tar Heel state.
#28 – AVERY COUNTY FAIR The fair includes livestock shows, live music, kids events, petting zoo, beauty pageant and boxcar races.
#29 – HOWARD’S KNOB Not many towns have the luxury of a penthouse observation deck. Boone is among the lucky few.
#20 – THE BEAR #17 – JULIAN PRICE MEMORIAL PARK Located just outside Blowing Rock, the 4,200-acre playground includes a 47-acre lake, more than 100 picnic areas, several campgrounds, many hiking trails and a amphitheater.
The starting line is at the base of Grandfather Mountain. The finish line?Near the top of Grandfather Mountain. In between is five miles of road and 1,568 feet of elevation.
#21 – MUSICFEST ‘N SUGAR GROVE The two-day flow of top notch bluegrass is played out on the grounds of historic Old Cove Creek School about 20 minutes from Boone.
#18 – SINGING ON THE MOUNTAIN
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#22 – FIREFLY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD The High Country is home to legions of the lightning bugs. You see them most every summer evening.
#23 – LAND OF GREAT BOULDERING The High Country has plenty of challenges for those who enjoy bouldering. Large chunks of climbable rocks are dotted throughout the area.
#24 – THE MOUNTAINS-TO-SEA TRAIL The Mountains-to-Sea trail, North Carolina longest, slinks through portions of the High Country area.
#30 – MORNING AT BASS LAKE The Blowing Rock gem is ready made for early risers. It offers a trail for a peaceful jog, water for time with a fishing pole, and a natural silence for someone seeking to just get away for awhile.
#31 – VALLE COUNTRY FAIR/WOOLLY WORM WEEKEND The annual Valley Country Fair and Woolly Worm Festival have become a traditional autumn highlight of the High Country. Both events share the same weekend – the third Saturday in October – and both attract thousands of fall frolickers.
#32 – GHOST TRAIN Come the nights of October, Tweetsie Railroad theme park rises from the dead to offer scares, stares and bewares to those brave enough to walk its darkened grounds.
#33 – HALLOWEEN BOO IN DOWNTOWN BOONE Each year on All Hallow’s Eve, costumed candy cravers can cascade through downtown Boone for an evening of sugar-loaded fun.
#25 – BLUEGRASS AND OLD TIME FIDDLERS CONVENTION 441 Shawneehaw Ave., Downtown Banner Elk - in the RED CABOOSE (828) 898-5008 Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5:30 pm; Sun. 11-4pm (Closed Wednesdays)
For 40 years some of the best and most dedicated fiddle players in the region have descended on the High Country to play, practice and learn a few new licks.
#26 – OLA BELLE REED FESTIVAL The annual Ola Belle Reed Festival in Lansing features three days of music in honor of the late Ola Belle Reed, an acclaimed songwriter and musician.
#27 – ASHE COUNTY
FUDGE!
Ashe County was the star of an episode of “Life in the Carolinas,” a 30-minute television program dedicated to
#34 – HOME OF THE HOLIDAY SHOEBOX Operation Christmas Child, a time when hundreds of thousands of shoeboxes are packed with toys and treats for distribution overseas, begins- and ends – in the High Country via Samaritan’s Purse.
#35 – CHOOSE AND CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE Hundreds of people descended upon the many Choose and Cut Christmas tree farms here, not only to personally find that perfect family tree but to take part in an old fashioned holiday experience. REASONS – Continued on Page 24
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REASONS FROM PAGE 23
#36 – BEAUTY OF HIGH COUNTRY SKIING The ski mountains are not only fun to rush down, but also a marvel to view. All three resorts – Appalachian Ski Mountain, Ski Beech and Sugar Mountain Ski Resort – are visible from a distance from various angles in the county.
#37 – APPALACHIAN SKI MOUNTAIN App Ski Mountain has not just attracted thousands of tourists to the area but is a convenient winter playground for anyone with a sudden urge to make a run for the snow boarders.
#38 – BLOWING ROCK WINTERFEST Winterfest is a four-day annual event packed full of activities that could make even the most devout summer lover anxious for the end of January to arrive.
#39 – VALLE CRUCIS
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, with its trails, views and craft center, is one of the biggest attractions on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is the Carriage Trail that takes you up to Flat Top tower on its easy, switchback, style of trails designed for easy hiking and horseback riding. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
Parkway bound
#40 – LAND OF THE OUTDOOR WEDDING
Blowing Rock just minutes away from Blue Ridge Parkway adventure By JEFF EASON editor@blowingrocket.com
T
he heart of no town lies closer to the Blue Ridge Parkway than Blowing Rock’s. Downtown Blowing Rock is less than five miles from the Southern Highland Craft Guild Center at the Moses H. Cone Estate (closer, if you walk from Bass Lake). Some of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s greatest assets are closer to Blowing Rock than anywhere else. The Thunder Hill Overlook,
with its majestic views and wonderful hiking trails are located at Parkway Milepost 290.3. On the 4th of July you can see a number of fireworks displays from the vantage point of Thunder Hill. At Milepost 294, you will find the Southern Highland Craft Center and Moses Cone Memorial Park. The park features 25 miles of carriage trails for hiking and horseback riding, 16-acre Trout Lake, 22-acre Bass Lake, observation tower, and Flat Top Manor. Julian Price Memorial Park, with its lake and fabulous camp-
ground, is found at Milepost 297. It includes a boathouse where visitors can rent kayaks, canoes and small rowboats. There are also plenty of overlooks and picnic areas on the Blue Ridge Parkway that are only minutes from Blowing Rock.
Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is the primary and professional fundraising organization for the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Valle Crucis is probably best known as the home of the original Mast General Store. But it’s also known for its picturesque beauty and phenomenal community park.
The role of the Foundation is to identify and cultivate the constituency of the Blue Ridge Parkway for philanthropic support. The Foundation only provides funding for those projects that enhance the quality of the visitor’s experience and have lasting value. In recent years, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has provided much needed funding for projects at Bass Lake and Julian Price Park. For more information, contact the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation at (336) 721-0260.
The High Country of North Carolina offers such outdoor beauty, stunning enough to accentuate the largest – or smallest – outdoor wedding imaginable. And one more…
#41 – HOME OF A BEAUTIFUL ROUND OF 18 The High Country outdoors has plenty to offer, including more than one spectacular round of 18. The area is home to several golf courses, including Blowing Rock Country Club, Boone Golf Club Grandfather Mountain Country Club and Hound Ears Club.
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Blowing Rock My Hometown
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The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum has become a ‘must-see’ location for visitors and residents. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
Curator Dianna Loughlin guides visitors through BRAHM’s Historic Artifacts Gallery. PHOTO SUBMITTED
BRAHM provides ample opportunities for budding young artists through its camps and special events. PHOTO SUBMITTED
W
BRAHM has something for everyone
ithin the town of Blowing Rock, there is a hidden gem that sits just at the end of Main Street: The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum. Here one can experience the arts and heritage of the mountains through exhibitions, educational programs, scholarly lectures, concerts and workshops. The Museum provides something for everyone, from children to seniors. Youth and family activities focus on developing individual artistic skills through weekly
art classes and engaging children in the traditional music and heritage of the mountains through storytelling, summer camps and art workshops. For those who prefer scholarly programming, the museum hosts several monthly art- and history-related lecture and discussion series including: Scholars and Scones, Third Thursday, and Watauga Wanderings, as well as a monthly Appalachian Documentary Film Series. On the social side, the museum host special events, summer concerts, mem-
bership coffees and an annual Art & Antiques Show weekend featuring more than 20 antique dealers from all over the East Coast. The museum boasts more than 5,000 square feet of gallery space, which houses seasonal exhibitions of art and historical artifacts. Twice a week, docents provide tours of the museum’s six galleries and the Exhibits and Collections Manager host a monthly Coffee with the Curator, offering visitors several opportunities to get a
closer look at the exhibits. Private group tours are available upon request. The Museum is located on the corner of Main and Chestnut Streets and is open Tuesday through Saturday,10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 1 - 5 p.m. with extended hours on “Be our Guest” Thursdays, from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., where admission is a self-directed donation. For more information about the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum call 828-295-9099 or visit www.BlowingRockMuseum.org.
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You never know where live music will pop up in Blowing Rock! Patrick and Kay Crouch performed next to the Martin House this past spring. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
I
Music and Theater
t seems as if there is always something to do in Blowing Rock, especially in the summer. For some reason, a lot of talented folks end up in our Village and are constantly looking for an audience.
at the Blowing Rock School auditorium and the audience is admitted on the Sunset Drive entrance to the the theater. For more information, or to order tickets, visit www.ensemblestage.com or call (828) 414-1844.
Ensemble Stage
Blowing Rock Jazz Society
For the past six-and-a-half years, Ensemble Stage Company has been producing quality theater entertainment for all ages. This summer, Ensemble Stage will present a wide array of productions including a murder mystery, comedies and even a night of cabaret music. Here’s a look at the 2015 Ensemble Stage schedule: • June 20-June 28: “The Love List” by Norm Foster. This comedy shows what happens when a long time bachelor is given the chance to meet the woman of his dreams and is reminded that you should be careful what you wish for. • July 11-July 19: “Killing Time” by Richard Stockwell. A murder mystery in the best tradition of the “whodunit” style, “Killing Time” takes aim at a chance meeting between a man and woman that turns out to be anything but a chance meeting. • July 12: “Julie and Mary and Ethel and Babs.” For one night only, join Ensemble Stage and talented singer Laura Hodos as she presents the songs and stories of Julie Andrews, Mary Martin, Ethel Merman and Barbra Streisand. • July 24-July 26: “And a Child Shall Lead” by Michael Slade. This wonderful production deals honestly with the ordeal
For the past decade, the Blowing Rock Jazz Society has been presenting monthly “Second Sunday” concerts at the Meadowbrook Inn. Pulling in talented acts from all over the Southeast, the BRJS concerts are a class act in a wonderful relaxing setting. You can also order food and drinks while you listen to pianos, saxes, bass and drums. Members of the Blowing Rock Jazz Society get to hear the shows for free.
Soul Benefactor, performing at one of the Friday afternoon concerts at the Best Cellar. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
of eight children who were held by the Nazis in the Terezin Concentration Camp during the Holocaust. • August 8-August 16: “I Oughta Be In Pictures” by Neil Simon. Hollywood scriptwriter Herb has his life turned upside down when his Brooklynese daughter tracks him down with stars in her eyes. • August 29-September 6: “Ears on a Beatle” by Mark St. Germain. FBI director J. Edgar Hoover’s obsession with John Lennon is revealed in telling detail as authorities try to remove the Beatle from the United States on the eve of Richard
Nixon’s reelection campaign in 1972. Tickets for “Julie, Mary, Ethel and Babs” are $15 per person. Tickets for all other main stage productions are $21 for adults, $19 for seniors and military personnel, and $11 for children ages 16 and under. Ensemble Stage will also present two children’s plays this summer featuring the Commedia Troupe. “The Voyages of Sinbad” takes the stage June 26, June 27 and July 18. “The Princess and the Pea” is presented August 1 and August 4. Tickets for these shows are $6 per person. Ensemble Stage presents its productions
Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music Started more than two decades ago by the late musician and host Joe Shannon, Mountain Home Music is presented at a variety of venues in Blowing Rock and Boone from St. Patrick’s Day through Christmas each year. With an emphasis on regional musical styles, Mountain Home Music performances are your best bet for finding the finest musicians in the worlds of bluegrass, country, gospel, old-time, folk and Celtic.
MUSIC – Continued on Page 29
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For comedies, murder mysteries and serious drama, it is hard to beat Ensemble Stage Productions in Blowing Rock. PHOTO BY JEFF EASON
MUSIC FROM PAGE 28
Blowing Rock Music Festival Held last year at the historic Blowing Rock attraction, the Blowing Rock Music Festival was a smashing success…so much that they have decided to do it again. The 2015 Blowing Rock Music Festival will feature two stages at the Blowing Rock. Performers include The Harris Brothers, Shelby Rae Moore, Mitch Clark and Masten Cloer and many others. In addition to the great live music, the festival features a chance to see the legendary Blowing Rock and visit some of the best local food, beverage and craft vendors. Gates open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Septemer 19. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 the day of the show and $35 for advance reserved seating. For more information, call (828) 295-7183.
Live music In Blowing Rock, you never know when somebody’s going to break out into song. But if that is too random and unpredictable for you, there are a number of surefire locales where you are bound to hear great music. Canyons of the Blue Ridge features live
music on the weekends, usually starting around 10 p.m. The majority of the shows are free, but Bart occasionally books the big national act and charges a little bit at the door. You can also always count on Canyons for great live jazz music during its Sunday brunch. Woodlands Barbecue and Pickin’ Parlor is the perfect place to grab some grub and hear some live music. The upstairs of the restaurant features live music nightly, usually by some of the High Country’s best bluegrass and country musicians. Live music can also be heard at Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort, Twigs and the Town Tavern. More and more restaurants are adding live entertainment to their offerings, especially in the summer. Call ahead to find out when they are playing. The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce presents a summer concert series called Concerts in the Park. About once a month, you’ll find a musical act performing to an audience of about 100, filling the warm Sunday atmosphere with beautiful music. Another outdoor concert series uses Mondays instead of Sundays and Broyhill Park instead of Memorial Park. The Monday Night Concert Series, organized by Amy Marie Young, features a wide variety of acts performing at the gazebo next to Broyhill Lake, behind the Blowing Rock American Legion.
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Churches Serving Blowing Rock Blowing Rock Methodist Church (Summer only) 1314 Main St., Blowing Rock 295-6207
Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church 1218 Main St., Blowing Rock 295-7675
Blowing Rock Refuge Church Blowing Rock School Gym Morris St., Blowing Rock Sundays at 10 a.m. 773-6750
St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church 140 Chestnut Dr., Blowing Rock 295-7323
Church of the Epiphany Catholic Church (Summer only) 163 Galax Lane 264-8338 FaithBridge United Methodist Church 194 Aho Rd., Blowing Rock 295-8333
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 5570 Blowing Rock Blvd., Lenoir 295-4750 The Temple of the High Country 1043 W. King St., Boone 264-8364
First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock 350 Sunset Dr., Blowing Rock 295-7715
St. Elizabeth of the Hill Country Catholic Church 259 Pilgrims Way, Boone 264-8338
First Independent Baptist Church Possum Hollow Rd., Blowing Rock
Sandy Flats Baptist Church 1776 Hwy. 221 S., Blowing Rock
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Clubs, Non-Profits and Civic Organizations in Blowing Rock (All numbers in the 828 area code, except where noted). American Red Cross (Watauga County Chapter) ..................................................................264-8226 Appalachian Women’s Fund .................................................................................................264-4002 Blowing Rock C.A.R.E.S (Children Are Really Extra Special) Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce ..................................................................................295-7851 Blowing Rock Community Foundation ................................................................................295-3048 Blowing Rock Historical Society ...........................................................................................295-6114 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum ...............................................................................295-9099 Boy Scout Troop 101 Girl Scout Troop 4 Blowing Rock School PTO Blowing Rock Garden Club Blowing Rock Community Library .......................................................................................295-7000 Blowing Rock Jazz Society ......................................................................................... (423) 727-0795 Blowing Rock Women’s Club ................................................................................................295-7656 Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation ................................................................................ (336) 721-0260 High Country United Way ....................................................................................................265-2111 Blowing Rock American Legion Middle Fork Greenway Association ......................................................................................264-3754 Rotary Club of Blowing Rock ...................................................................www.blowingrockrotary.org Watauga Humane Society ...................................................................................................264-7865 Dylan’s Hearts ............................................................................................................ (336) 299-6392 O.A.S.I.S. (Opposing Abuse with Shelter, Information and Service) .....................................264-1532 Habitat for Humanity ..........................................................................................................268-9545 Watauga Arts Council ..........................................................................................................264-1789 Western Youth Network .......................................................................................................264-5174 Wine to Water .....................................................................................................................355-9655 Samaritan’s Purse ................................................................................................................262-1980
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