Blowing Rock My Hometown 2019

2019 my BLOWING hometown scenic beauty and gracious,

ROCK

comfortable mountain living

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Blowing Rock: A history of the Blue Ridge’s premier tourist destination

BY THOMAS SHERRILL thomas.sherrill@wataugademocrat.com

Blowing Rock’s history goes back to before the town was incorporated.

Prior to the settlement of the region

by Scots and the Irish in the mid- to late-1700s, the area was home to the Cherokee and Catawba Indian tribes, who were hostile to each other. The competing tribes is where the town later got its name.

According to legend, two starcrossed lovers, one from each tribe, were walking near “The Rock” when the reddening sky signaled to the boy that he must return to his tribal duty, and the maiden urged him to stay with her. His desperation in choosing between duty and love caused him to leap from the edge of the gorge toward the rocks below. The maiden cried to the Great Spirit to bring him back to her and the famous winds of the John’s River Gorge blew her lover back into her arms, and this legend about The Blowing Rock is still told today.

With elevations between 3,500 and 3,600 feet above sea level, the area was a summer destination for visitors looking to avoid the heat, mostly of Scotch-Irish descent.

A population boom came during the Civil War, when many men sent their families to the mountains to seek refuge from war-torn areas of the Confederate North Carolina, joining them in their new homes after the war ended in 1865.

The town, with a population of 300, was officially incorporated on March 11, 1889.

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZANNE COFFEY An undated photo shows a Blowing Rock Fire Department truck rolling down Main Street during a parade.

and cabins for the “cottagers” who returned every year.

The journey up the mountain to Blowing Rock was a difficult one before the advent of automobiles, with the incline taking many hours to traverse.

In the early half of the 1900s, downtown Blowing Rock suffered through two devastating fires, which destroyed many of the buildings on Main Street.

Not only did these fires lead to the establishment of a full-time fire department in the town, but convinced store owners to rebuild using brick and stone instead of wood. Many of those classic stone buildings are standing today, helping to give the downtown area its rustic mountain charm.

Children in Blowing Rock attended the local K-12 school until 1965, when all of the high school students merged into the newly-constructed county-

wide Watauga High School in nearby Boone. Today, Blowing Rock School serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade.

Currently, approximately 1,500 people live year-round inside Blowing Rock town limits, with that number swelling by five or six times during the summer season, which traditionally goes from Memorial Day weekend to the end of October.

The economy of Blowing Rock is 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.

From cultural events to music festivals, horse shows and the nearby Tweetsie Railroad amusement park and Appalachian Ski Mtn, Blowing Rock is home to a wide varity of offerings.

About the cover A hunter-class horse leaps over a jump at the 2018 Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show at the L.M. Tate Showgrounds, located in the Broyhill Equestrian Preserve.

The Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show is the longest continally running horse show on the East Coast. The show earned accolades as one of the Top 10 hunter-jumper shows in the nation in 2018 and 2019, the only show in the Southeast to be listed by the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame.

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Welcome to Blowing Rock I would like to welcome our visitors and summer residents to our fine town of Blowing Rock. It’s a great place to be spring, summer, autumn or winter.

Sunset Drive is going to look great! However, as you may have noticed, Sunset Drive is currently under a revitalization program which will greatly improve one of our main entries to our downtown.

All of the restaurants, hotels and Sellers gift shops are open for business and are looking forward to your patronage. In the town limits, we have many unique, locally owned gift shops, more than 25 restaurants and in excess of 30 motels and inns available for overnight stays.

Visit the new Mayview Plaza located at the entrance of Laurel Lane. This plaza recognizes the local attractions that have been the driving force for our tourism industry.

In summer 2019, there are many events planned for Blowing Rock: Art in the Park, movies in the park, Independence Day festivities, Symphony by the Lake at Chetola, St. Mary’s tour of homes, the Blowing Rock Horse show and monthly exhibits at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) in addition to many other events throughout the High Country.

Also, while in Blowing Rock, be sure to visit our community pool, Memorial Park and Broyhill Park. Also, Glen Burney trail has reopened with a new bridge and trail work.

On the Blue Ridge Parkway just outside of Blowing Rock is the Moses Cone Estate, including the house, grounds and 20 miles of trails.

Welcome to all of you that make our town a special place to visit and to call home.

Charlie Sellers Blowing Rock mayor

About this publication Now in its eighth annual edition, the award-winning “Blowing Rock: My Hometown” is a partnership between your hometown newspaper, The Blowing Rocket, and the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce.

We at BRMHT are proud of the myriad North Carolina Press Association honors and awards the publication continues to earn, but our real source of pride comes from helping visitors and local residents alike learn more about our area — whether those visitors are here for a weekend, a summer, retirement or a family relocation.

Through working with the chamber of commerce, the staff of BRMHT achieves a similar honor as we help to promote that organization’s vision 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 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 MY HOMETOWN

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PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL The three Blowing Rock recipients of a special recognition from America in Bloom.

From left to right: Kathy Beach of Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church, Charlie Sellers of The Blowing Rock and Jane Fonvielle of The Inn at Ragged Gardens.

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Blowing Rock frequently receives acclaim

BY THOMAS SHERRILL thomas.sherrill@blowingrocket.com

Whether visiting or living in Blowing Rock, one might think “Wow, this is one of the best small towns in America.” And for years, magazines and national publications have agreed.

Blowing Rock is often bestowed with honors for its beauty, access to recreation, accommodations for tourists and much more.

In 2019, USA Today named Blowing Rock as one of its “Best Small Towns for Adventure.”

“Those looking for a mountain escape have been coming to Blowing Rock since the 1880s,’ USA Today states. “Today, this North Carolina village sits directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway and serves as a gateway to adjacent Pisgah National Forest.”

At the 2018 America in Bloom National Awards program on Sept. 29 in Lexington, Ky., Blowing Rock received a 5-star rating and special recognition for its flowers.

Stephen Patagas and Laurie Potier-Brown, America in Bloom judges, spent two days in July touring the community and meeting municipal officials, residents and volunteers. Organized by the Blowing Rock Garden Club, the visit culminated with a dinner honoring the town’s volunteer groups.

“All program participants were evaluated on seven criteria: overall impression, community vitality, environmental efforts, heritage celebration, urban forestry, landscaped areas and flowers,” a statement from the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce said. “Additionally, they were judged on their community involvement across municipal, residential and commercial sectors. America in Bloom is the only national awards program that sends specially trained judges to personally visit participants. Each participant receives a detailed written evaluation that can be used as a guide for future improvements.”

The awards are in addition to the special recognition that The Inn at Ragged Gardens, Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church and The Blowing Rock got in August for its beautification.

To date, more than 250 communities from 45 states have participated in the program.

In 2018, Southern Living magazine named Blowing Rock as one of “The South’s Best Small Towns In Every State 2018.”

“This cool mountain town is named for the famous Blowing Rock, where you can drop a handkerchief and it will either float away or blow right back to you because of SEE HONORS ON PAGE 4

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Important numbers in Blowing Rock (All numbers reside within the 828 area code, except where noted.)

Any Emergency ...............................................................911 Blowing Rock Police Department (non-emergency) .....295-5210 Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue (non-emergency) ...548-2800 Blowing Rock Plus Urgent Care ...............................572-4076 Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce ...................295-7851 Blowing Rock Post Office ..........................................295-3589 Blowing Rock Sewer Plant .......................................295-5226 Blowing Rock Water Plant ........................................295-5225 Blowing Rock Town Hall ...........................................295-5200 Grover Robbins Pool Complex ............................... 229-7525 Parks and Recreation ...............................................296-5222 Blowing Rock School ................................................295-3204 Foley Center at Chestnut Ridge ...............................386-3350 Harriet and Charles Devant Medical Clinic ............386-3350 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 Energy 758-2383 High Country Host/ASM Welcome Center .............438-7500 Appalachian Energy ................................................295-9563 Blue Ridge Energies ................................................754-9071 Carolina West Wireless .................................. (336) 973-5000 Charter Business ............................................ (800) 314-7195 Skyline Membership Corporation ..........................963-1350 Wireless Center/Verizon Wireless ..........................406-4040 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum ...................295-9099 Moses Cone Memorial Park ....................................295-3782 Linn Cove Visitors Center ........................................348-3400 -- COMPILED BY CARTER NORTH

FILE PHOTO Snow piled up frames the Blowing Rock Town Hall sign on Dec. 10, 2018.

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HONORS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

an unusual air current,” Southern Living said of Blowing Rock.

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: • One of the 10 best small southern towns

by USA Today, 2018 • 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 Winston-Salem 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.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

Blowing Rock’s Art in the Park returns for 57th year

BY THOMAS SHERRILL thomas.sherrill@blowingrocket.com

One Saturday per month from May through October sees the best craftspeople and artisans from several different states line up along Park Avenue in downtown Blowing Rock, turning the road into a pedestrian path for the annual Art in the Park event.

“Celebrating 57 years, Art in the Park is one of the top arts and crafts shows in the Southeast,” said Loni Miller, director of Art in the Park. “As a series of six separate shows, each show has a different selection of artists — making it worth the visit each show.”

In 2019, the event returns for the 57th year.

Going from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the remaining 2019 versions take place on July

CONCERTS IN THE PARK Every Sunday after Art in the Park, Blowing Rock’s Memorial Park hosts Concerts in the Park. This family-friendly free event features a mix of musical interests, starting May 26 with the Watauga Community Band. The concerts are free to attend, with visitors encouraged to bring lawn chairs and/or blankets. The music starts at 4 p.m.

13, Aug. 10, Sept. 7 and Oct. 5.

“This year’s Art in the Park jury process was incredibly competitive with many new artists applying for their chance to share their work with Blowing SEE ART ON PAGE 7

PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Marcus C. Thomas completes one his paintings in the June 2018 Blowing Rock Art in the Park.

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ART CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

Rock,” Miller said. “As a result, we look forward to shopping an incredible variety of new art never seen before in Blowing Rock, alongside some favorite legends from our shows.”

A Blowing Rock staple since 1962, visitors can look at and purchase paintings, jewelry, furniture, ceramics, fiber items and much more from any of the long line of artists.

Held rain or shine, each Art in the Park sees four artists honored. The Award of Excellence comes with a $200 prize, the Award of Distinction recipient gets $100 and two Honorable Mention Awards are presented. Recipients of the Award of Excellence are eligible to receive a free booth space in the May show of the following year. All award winners are exempt from jurying in the following year.

Free parking is available downtown on the street and in the parking decks on Wallingford Street and at BRAHM. Art in the Park also has a free trolley to and from parking areas at Tanger Outlets and Food Lion, looping every 20 minutes. Art in the Park is presented by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. For more information, including the featured artists in 2019, call the Chamber at (828) 295-7851 or visit blowingrock.com/artinthepark.

PHOTO COURTESY BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Arts and crafts are available for sale at all Blowing Rock Art in the Park events.

PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Hundreds turn up for Blowing Rock’s Art in the Park, as seen here in June 2018.

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Doc’s Rock is a western North Carolina based gemstone mining operation specializing in local gemstones.

Doc’s Rocks is also an educational based gem mine teaching the Geneology of the Appalachian Mountains.

Also on Display: • Large Private Collection of Emeralds • Minerals on Display from All Over the World • Extensive Miocene Era Oceanic Fossil Collection Generously Donated by: The Aurora Fossil Museum in Aurora, NC via the P.C.S. Phosphate Mine • Coal Mine Fossils on Display from Wise County, VA and Pike County, KY • Featured Dinosaur on Display from Master Paleontologist Jerry Jecene’s Collection

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Blowing Rock: A very healthy real estate market

BY LESLIE EASON, MBA, REALTOR® leslie@easonteam.com

Come for the healthy outdoor lifestyle, stay to enjoy the healthy real estate market. Many people who visit Blowing Rock start thinking about what it would be like to have a second home here, or even move here full time. Here is some information about our market to take that idea to the next step.

Having a home in Blowing Rock is a dream for many people.

Blowing Rock is one of the most prestigious towns in the southeast with some of the most expensive homes. However, the area offers a wide variety of properties with prices starting in the $150,000 range for condos and there are good prices on homes further from downtown or in nearby Boone, N.C. Prices go up based on proximity to town, setting and neighborhood, views and, of course, the home.

Median days on market so far in 2019 is 103, just slightly less than 2018. Homes are selling at a good

Leslie Eason

more about the market or seeing some properties, be sure to check with a local REALTOR®.

MARKET SNAPSHOT

PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL The ‘Far Horizons’ home at 1245 Laurel Lane in Blowing Rock, as pictured in July 2018. Blowing Rock is home to many upscale and refurbished homes.

pace, but not with the immediacy of homes in metropolitan markets.

This gives buyers a little breathing space when looking for homes or

planning a visit.

The homes you see walking or driving around town are just a fraction of what Blowing Rock has

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to offer. There are many neighborhoods and pockets of homes and several of them are noted below.

If you are interested in learning

Blowing Rock has seen a 42.5 percent increase in sales volume January through May of 2019, spurred by a surge in sales of homes above $1 million. This has driven the average single-family home price (not including condos) above $500,000, although SEE MARKET ON PAGE 12

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MARKET CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

the median single home sales price of $410,000 is only up by 3.0 percent versus 2018.

The median sales price increase indicates a sustainable growth rate, which benefits both buyers and sellers. Also good for the market is the fact that the number of new listings this year is flat compared to last year with more than six months of inventory in most segments, indicating a good inventory for buyers.

Condominium and townhouses are down in unit sales, with overall sales volume actually higher. This is due to the sale of two new condos under construction in the Chestnut at Blowing Rock development at $1.3 million and $2 million. Other current available condos are in areas such as Chetola Resort and The Village at Green Park.

TYPES OF PROPERTIES Luxury Homes Blowing Rock is perhaps best known for its gorgeous mountain homes, both newer and historic.

Blowing Rock homes have graced the covers of magazines and attracted buyers from all around the

world. These homes can be found in town in the Mayview and Laurel Park neighborhoods, as well as in nearby gated neighborhoods such as Timber Creek and Firethorn.

For buyers looking to build a custom home, this area boasts some excellent builders and offers many options for land purchases.

Condominiums Condos generally offer a less expensive way to enter the market while relieving the owner of home maintenance worries. For in-town Blowing Rock, some of the condo developments offer the ability to rent the condos to vacationers, making them a good investment.

Condo and townhome developments include Royal Oaks, Glen Burney, Village on the Green and Chetola Resort, which also boasts a hotel, fine dining restaurant and spa. There are some nicer condos with views in the Mayview area of Blowing Rock as well as in the Blue Ridge Mountain Club (noted below).

Currently under construction are 23 luxury condos called Chestnut at Blowing Rock, with great views of Moses Cone and Grandfather Mountain, starting at $1.2 million.

These condos will include twocar garages below. Also under

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construction are The Townes of Blowing Rock on Chestnut Drive, currently offered at $849,000.

be sure to ask your REALTOR® whether vacation rentals are allowed in that location.

Second Homes Well more than half of the homes sold in Blowing Rock are second homes. Buyers look here to escape the summer heat or live here for half of the year. With Charlotte a two-hour drive and Raleigh/ Durham three hours away, the High Country is a convenient escape for buyers from North Carolina, as well as a seasonal destination for buyers from Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Many buyers purchase a second (or third) home in Blowing Rock with plans to make it their retirement home.

A strong and growing segment of the Blowing Rock Real Estate market is second homes that can also be used as vacation rentals to help pay for the cost of owning and maintaining the home. There are several excellent vacation rental management companies in the area that can manage the entire process.

Note that vacation/short term rentals fewer than 28 days are not allowed within Blowing Rock town limits and in some subdivisions. If you are looking for a home that can also be used as a vacation rental,

AREAS OF TOWN

and

In town Blowing Rock: The town of Blowing Rock is known for its grand homes along Main Street and in historic Mayview and Laurel Park as well as cottages around Ransom Street and Chestnut Drive.

There are also condominium developments such as Royal Oaks, Glen Burney and Chetola Resort.

In town Across 321: Cross Highway 321 (Blowing Rock Boulevard) to Echo Park, Green Hill Road, Wonderland Woods and areas surrounding the Blowing Rock Country Club and Golf Course. There is a wide variety of home styles and sizes in these quiet neighborhoods.

Highway 221 South: There are several neighborhoods on either side of Highway 221 headed south, some offering great Grandfather Mountain and St. Johns River Gorge views. These include Misty Mountain, Fair Mountain Acres, Saddle Hills and Sweetgrass, a newer development with trails and a lake.

Highway 321 north (toward Boone): One of the largest residential areas in this direction

is Appalachian Ski Mountain, with many mountain and log homes close to skiing. This is a popular location for vacation rentals. Also along 321 are the luxury gated communities of Firethorn and Timber Creek, as well as the log home community Friendly Mountain Acres.

Blue Ridge Parkway North: There are several established neighborhoods with mid-range to high-end homes along this route.

This general area is referred to on maps as the Aho area and includes the neighborhoods of Sorrento, Greystone, Blackberry, Goshen Valley, Summit Park, and Brown Stone Ridge, 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.

Also in this direction is the Blue Ridge Mountain Club (BRMC), a newer and impressive development with timber frame homes and many lots available. BRMC offers trails, a gym, restaurant and clubhouse facility.

When you are visiting, think about also making Blowing Rock your home.

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Departments and Officials Current elected officials holding office in Blowing Rock include Mayor Charlie Sellers, Mayor Pro-Tem Albert Yount and Town Council members Jim Steele, Sue Sweeting and Virginia Powell.

Commissioners meetings take place at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in Blowing Rock Town Hall. These meetings are open to the public.

Town Manager Shane Fox is assisted by finance officer Nicole Norman, customer service representative Holly Autry, town clerk/tax collector Hilari Hubner, payroll administrator Tonda Spear, accounts payable clerk/receptionist Linda Steen and accounts payable specialist/admin support Tasha Johnson. The administration department can be reached by calling (828) 295-5200.

The Blowing Rock Public Works Department is made up of the street division, sanitation/recycling division and water/sewer field

operations division. Department employees include Public Works/ Utilities Director Mike Wilcox, Interim Director Christopher “Matt” Blackburn, sanitation collector Brian Clark, sanitation collector Kyle Earp, sanitation equipment operator Barry Ford, equipment operator Chris Geis, equipment operator Sterling Lewis, equipment operator Justin Mullett, fleet mechanic Steve Norris, street division employee Brandon Norris, crew leader Mark Presnell, field operations employee David Watson, equipment operator Dustin Watson and equipment operator Tim Williams. Contact the public works department at (828) 295-5200.

Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue is chartered as a private organization separate from the town, however, the two work closely together.

Fifty-three volunteers make up Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue, and ensure it is staffed 24 hours a day. Emergency Services Director and Chief Kent Graham, Deputy Chief Matt McGuire, President Rob Slack and Vice President Michael O’Connor lead Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue. Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue can be reached at (828) 548-2800.

The Blowing Rock Police Department is led by Chief Aaron Miller, 10 other full-time sworn officers and one civilian support services coordinator. A seasonal park-

ing enforcement officer and part time-reserve sworn police officers supplement the full-time staff. To reach the police department, call (828) 295-5210.

Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation is staffed by Director Jennifer Brown, recreation programs specialist Autumn Goheen, recreation and facilities coordinator Thomas Steele, landscape specialist Chris Pate, parks maintenance worker Tyler Rodden, landscape assistant and stone mason Luke Taylor and landscape assistant Cody Bowers.

The department can be reached at (828) 295-5222.

Blowing Rock Water and Sewer Plant and Field Operations is headed up by senior plant operator Tim Everhart, plant operators Bud Burwell, Trathen Greene and James Townsend and plants supervisor Douglas Lee. The water plant can be reached by calling (828) 2955225 and the sewer plant can be reached by calling (828) 295-5226.

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NEW TOWN MANAGER Recently hired Blowing Rock Town Manager Shane Fox was sworn in on June 3 to begin his duties.

Ed Evans, previous Blowing Rock town manager, submitted his resignation effective Nov. 30, 2018. Fox was selected out of a pool of 48 candidates during the course of a months’ long search by the Blowing Rock Town Council.

Before accepting his role as Blowing Rock Town Manager, Fox served as CFO and assistant county manager for Cleveland County. Prior to his government management career, Fox worked in public accounting in Hickory and Burlington for 15 years.

Making his way from Cleveland County and as a Caldwell County native, Fox grew up visiting Blowing Rock and attended Appalachian State University.

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FILE PHOTO Blowing Rock’s American Legion Hall is used for everything from wedding receptions to the annual Rotary Club Charity Auction. It is rented through Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation by calling (828) 295-5222.

Clubs, Nonprofits and Civic Organizations in Blowing Rock (All phone numbers are in the 828 area code, except where noted) American Legion Hall ..................................................................................295-5222 American Red Cross (Watauga County Chapter) ........................................264-8226 Appalachian Women’s Fund ........................................................................264-4002 Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce .........................................................295-7851 Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show ...............................................................295-4700 Blowing Rock Civic Association ...................................................................295-3199 Blowing Rock Community Foundation .........................................................295-3048 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum .......................................................295-9099 Blowing Rock Young Professionals Boy Scout Troop 101 Girl Scout Troop 02252 Blowing Rock School PTO Blowing Rock Garden Club Blowing Rock Community Library ...............................................................295-7000 High Country Jazz Society ...........................................................................264-6860 Blowing Rock Women’s Club Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation (866) .........................................................308-2773 High Country United Way ............................................................................265-2111 Blowing Rock American Legion ...................................................................295-5222 Rotary Club of Blowing Rock ..............................................................(305) 797-1301 www.blowingrockrotary.org Watauga Humane Society ............................................................................264-7865 Dylan’s Hearts ....................................................................................(336) 365-2334 O.A.S.I.S. (Opposing Abuse with Shelter, Information and Service) ............. 264-1532 Habitat for Humanity ...................................................................................268-9545 Hospitality House ........................................................................................264-1237 Watauga Arts Council ..................................................................................264-1789 Western Youth Network ...............................................................................264-5174 Wine to Water ..............................................................................................355-9655 Samaritan’s Purse ........................................................................................262-1980

NOT JUST HORSING AROUND Blowing Rock’s Charity Horse Show Foundation has been preserving traditional horse sports in the town since 1923. Shows benefit nonprofit and charitable organizations.

The foundation’s website reads “uninterrupted by recessions, depressions, foul weather, or even World War II, the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show has survived one national and regional crisis after another.”

Detailed information on the show and how to attend can be found by clicking to https://brchs.org/.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

Blowing Rock School: The town’s K-8 center for education

BY LUKE WEIR luke.weir@mountaintimes.com

Located between Morris Street and Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock School is the quintessential neighborhood learning center for the local kids.

From 2016-2018, a Blowing Rock School faculty member won Watauga County Schools’ Teacher of the Year distinction. Terri Hodges was named the Watauga County Teacher of the Year for 2018, following her colleagues Eve Parsons and Martha Trimble, who received the award in 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Blowing Rock School enrolls students in Kindergarten through eighth grade, like all elementary schools in the Watauga County Schools system, removing the need for a separate middle school in Blowing Rock. Kids from the ninth through 12th grade go to Watauga High

School in Boone.

The school typically has about 350 total students, equal to about 39 students in each grade. Each 8th grader is issued their own Chromebook for school uses during the school year.

There are two teachers per grade for kindergarten through fifth grade, and eight educators teaching sixth through eighth grade.

The Blowing Rock School district includes Blowing Rock, Aho, Blackberry and Shull’s Mills and other surrounding communities.

Blowing Rock School has a full-time school resource officer, funded by the town.

Patrick Sukow has been the principal of Blowing Rock School since 2012.

The school is located at 165 Morris Street downtown in Blowing Rock. For more information, call the school at (828) 295-3204, or visit online at www. wataugaschools.org/br.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WATAUGA COUNTY SCHOOLS Newly named Watauga County Teacher of the Year Terri Hodges, center, celebrates at Blowing Rock School with some student high fives. From left, Christian Hamilton, Sam Brandon, Axel Abu, Piper Harrison, Sarah Scheurer and Emma Knight.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

Blowing Rock’s churches

FILE PHOTO Blowing Rock Methodist Church is one of the area’s ‘seasonal’ churches, open during the warm weather months only.

It was first opened in 1900

by Dr. Charles Waller and his wife, Edith. Dr. Hal Warlick is the current minister.

Blowing Rock Methodist Church Only open in the Summer months 1314 Main Street (828) 372-7009 Hymn singing at 10:30 a.m., service starts at 11 a.m.

Church of the Epiphany Catholic Church Open from May to October 163 Galax Lane (828) 264-8338 9 a.m. Mass FaithBridge United Methodist Church 194 Aho Road (828) 295-8333 Service starts at 11 a.m.

First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock 350 Sunset Drive (828) 295-7715 First Independent Baptist Church Possum Hollow Rd. Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church 1218 Main Street (828) 295-7675 8:45 a.m. worship (through Sunday, September 1) 9:45 a.m. Sunday school 11 a.m. worship St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church 140 Chestnut Drive (828)295-7323 8 a.m. Holy Eucharist 9 a.m. Sunday School 10:10 a.m. Holy Eucharist Sandy Flats Baptist Church 1776 Hwy. 221 S., Blowing Rock

FILE PHOTO First Independent Baptist Church is located on Possum Hollow Road.

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Staying healthy

Mountain Times Publications -

Blowing Rock offers a variety of health care facilities

BY KAYLA LASURE

While the Watauga Medical Center is located in Boone, Blowing Rock has facilities to take care of your families health care needs right in your hometown.

Five facilities in Boone — all becoming operational in 2016 — offer medical services for the people of Blowing Rock. These facilities include Blowing Rock Medical Park PLUS Urgent Care, The Foley Center at Chestnut Ridge, The Harriet and Charles Davant, Jr. Medical Clinic and The Village Pharmacy.

BLOWING ROCK MEDICAL PARK PLUS URGENT CARE Blowing Rock Medical Park is a division of Caldwell Memorial Hospital. The medical park consists of family and geriatric medicine as well as services in gastroenterology and PLUS Urgent Care.

People can visit Blowing Rock Medical Park when in need of flu/pneumonia vaccines, family medicine, gastroenterology consults, hearing tests, industrial and occupational medicine, onsite lab/x-ray, sports physicals and sick visits for children/adults.

PLUS Urgent Care offers a place for people to go when their regular doctor’s office is closed or when waiting for a doctors visit could take longer than expected. A benefit

PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL A sign at Chestnut Ridge for The Foley Center, Davant Medical Clinic and Village Pharmacy, which are located in the same building, is pictured in June.

of visiting PLUS Urgent Care is that people don’t have to be a patient of Caldwell Physicians to use this facility and also don’t need to make an appointment.

People who visit PLUS Urgent Care can expect to be seen for the following: colds, the flu, sore throats, minor infections, minor cuts/burns/scrapes, headaches, sprains, strains and other minor things. PLUS Urgent Care does not provide care for major medical emergencies.

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Practice hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Blowing Rock Medical Park services also include PLUS Urgent Care which is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. and from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

THE FOLEY CENTER AT CHESTNUT RIDGE COMPLEX This medical complex in Blowing Rock is home to The Foley Center at Chestnut

Ridge, the Harriet and Charles Davant, Jr. Medical Clinic and Boone Drug’s Village Pharmacy.

The Foley Center at Chestnut Ridge is designed for patients who no longer need to be placed in a hospital, but aren’t ready to safely return to their homes.

The Foley Center provides onsite physicians, skilled nursing staff, short and long-term care, rehabilitation services, memory support as well as assisted living and palliative care. The center prides itself on having a “neighborhood concept,” with private and semi-private bedrooms, a rehabilitation gym, six living rooms and community dining areas.

The Harriet and Charles Davant, Jr. Medical Clinic is a 4,375-square-foot facility that provides post-acute care.

The clinic is a member of Appalachian Regional Medical Associates and provides care for patients older than the age of 18. It provides convenient internal medicine services to the community of Blowing Rock.

The Village Pharmacy is a Boone Drug location in Blowing Rock. Not only is this location a full service pharmacy, but people can also use it for UPS shipping, fax and copy services, a drop off for Mountaineer Cleaners and a place to get greeting cards and household supplies.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 27, 2019

Choo Choo: Between Blowing Rock and Boone, the sound of a train whistle and smoke from a steam engine fills the air during the summer months as the Tweetsie Railroad attraction offers guests a trip back to the Wild West.

“We can’t wait to welcome new and returning guests for our 62nd season,” said Cathy Robbins, co-owner and director of marketing for Tweetsie Railroad. “In addition to all the Tweetsie traditions fans know and love, we’ll also be debuting two new rides in the Tweetsie Junction and have several exciting events lined up for our 2019 season.”

New attractions include Bikes and Buggies, a throwback carnival ride for the kids that opened in April, along with the Himalayan, a spinning favorite for all ages that opens later in the season.

Along with the new additions, guests will enjoy the popular Tweetsie tradition of a three-mile ride aboard the park’s historic steam locomotives.

The park is open for daytime operations, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.m seven days per week beginning Memorial Day through August 25. The park goes to being open only Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through October. The park is also open on Friday and

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Tweetsie offers family-friendly fun in the High Country

TWEETSIE SPECIAL EVENTS Day Out With Thomas — June 7-16 Experience everyone’s favorite train like never before as Thomas the Tank Engine chugs his way through the N.C. mountains.

Children can meet and take pictures with Sir Topham Hatt, listen to Thomas and Friends storytelling, and enjoy activities in the Imagination Station.

Fireworks Extravaganza — Thursday, July 4 Celebrate July 4 with a day of family fun at Tweetsie Railroad, followed by the High Country’s most spectacular fireworks display. The park will remain open until 9 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

Cool Summer Nights — Saturdays, July 6, 13, 20 and 27 Every Saturday in July the park stays open late, until 9 p.m., so you can make more time for family memories. Enjoy evening train and stage shows, rides at dusk and fun throughout the park.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — July 12-14 Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo will be appearing at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 12-14. Extra appearance during Cool Summer Night, Saturday evening at 7 p.m.

K-9s In Flight Frisbee Dogs — July 20-28 These incredible dogs have delighted audiences nationwide at halftime shows and on television. Don’t miss them live at Tweetsie Railroad. Shows at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday evening show at 7 p.m.

Riders In The Sky — August 17-18 Come hear Grammy-winning music and comedy from America’s Favorite Cowboys. Shows at 12 p.m and 3 p.m.

Railroad Heritage Weekend — August 24-25 A unique weekend celebrating the history of Tweetsie Railroad, the ET&WNC Railroad and mountain culture.

FILE PHOTO Tweetsie Railroad’s iconic engine #12, one of the original East Tennessee/West North Carolina locomotives, celebrated its centennial in 2017.

Saturday evenings for Ghost Train and Tweetsie Christmas this fall.

Fan-favorite events such the July 4 fireworks extravaganza, Cool Summer Nights, K-9s In Flight Frisbee Dogs, Riders In The Sky, Railroad Heritage Weekend, fall’s Ghost Train and winter’s Tweetsie Christmas will all return for 2019. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will also be back in the park for the first time since 2017.

Tweetsie Railroad also offers plenty of live entertainment including the Country

Clogging Jamboree, Diamond Lil’s Can-Can Review, the Hopper and Porter children’s show and a mountain-top petting zoo.

“Whether it’s a quick daytrip or a long weekend in the mountains, Tweetsie Railroad is the perfect getaway for any family within driving distance of our park,” Robbins said. “In addition to our attractions, they can beat the heat with summer temperatures averaging 10 degrees cooler in the mountains.”

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

BRAHM educates and entertains as it approaches eighth year

BY CARL BLANKENSHIP

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum opened doors in October of 2011, and has been displaying the region’s visuals and history ever since.

Since its inception, it has been the home to a number of exhibitions that celebrate the North Carolina mountains. Currently, the museum features an exhibitions of North Carolina fiber art and the American Watercolor Society.

Beginning in August, BRAHM will debut a new permanent exhibition titled “The Village of Blowing Rock: Exploring our History.” The new exhibit will feature a section with rotating stories about the history of the town. The new feature will be in the upstairs gallery.

The museum features more than art and history exhibits for the community to peruse, the facility also runs programming throughout the year.

Its film series shows films about art, Appalachian and by North Carolinians. They also feature free popcorn and post-showing talks with guest speakers.

BRAHM hosts education events featuring artists, curators scholars and more. Among the gentle yoga sessions and art-related talks at the museum are a “Scholars & Scones” event on saving endangered bats at Grandfather Mountain on July 18 and a lecture by

Atlanta-based architect Norman Askins on July 19. Other types of events on offer include open studios, “TAC Talks,” “Coffee with the Curator,” “Cork and Canvas,” presentations

by Southern Highland Craft Guild and its annual Alexander Arts lecture in October. The museum’s website has a full list of upcoming events.

BRAHM also has some less-adult offerings for the kids in different age groups with afternoon Art Club meeting every Tuesday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. for children ages 6 to 10, and the Doodlebug Club for preschool-age kids that meets from 10:30 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 2 p.m. each Thursday.

The museum also has a summer concert series featuring a range of music from classical performances to traditional Appalachian music. The upcoming shows this year are Tim McWilliams and William Ritter on July 28, Jodi Burns and Thaos Nguyen on Aug. 18, and Miles Hoffman and Reiko Uchida on Sept. 15.

The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday year round and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday between the months of May and October. The facility is closed on Monday.

According to the museum’s website, admission to the galleries is currently free for all ages and groups. Pricing for events varies.

For more information, call (828) 295-9099, or visit blowingrockmuseum.org.

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

The ultimate Blowing Rock guide for the ‘foodie’ Often the best parts of visiting a place is the various types of food one can try while out on the town.

Blowing Rock offers myriad choices for the “foodie” in the group — whether it’s a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, bistro fare or brunch. Whatever your tickles your fancy, Blowing Rock is sure to have it.

Here’s a guide to all of the restaurants that Blowing Rock has to offer.

The Best Cellar 203 Sunset Drive (828) 295-3466 Bistro Roca 143 Wonderland Trail (828) 295-4008 Blowing Rock Ale House and Inn 152 Sunset Drive (828) 414-9600 Blowing Rock Market 990 Main St. (828) 414-9322 The Chef and Somm 1132 Main St., Suite 102 (828) 414-9989 Chestnut Grille at Green Park Inn 9239 Valley Blvd.

(828) 414-9230 Divide Tavern and Restaurant 9239 Valley Blvd.

(828) 414-9230 El Rincon 870 Main St.

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PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL The Famous Toastery is located at 349 Sunset Drive in Blowing Rock.

(828) 414-9784 Famous Toastery 349 Sunset Dr. (828) 414-9914 Foggy Rock Eatery and Pub 8180 Valley Blvd.

(828) 295-7262 The Gamekeeper Restaurant 3005 Shulls Mill Road (828) 963-7400

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Grilled Cheese Café 1179 Main St. (828) 279-3466 J&M Produce and General Store & Grill 117 Shore Drive (828) 268-4109 Mellow Mushroom 946 Main St. (828) 295-3399 Moon Thai Sushi 7179 Valley Blvd

(828) 414-9905.

New Public House and Hotel 239 Sunset Drive (828) 295-3487 Outback Steakhouse 8280 Valley Blvd.

(828) 295-6283 Papa Joe’s Italian American Restaurant 8062 Valley Blvd.

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House 155 Sunset Drive (828) 414-9354 Six Pence Pub 1121 Main St. (828) 295-3155 Speckled Trout Restaurant and Bottle Shop 922 Main St. (828) 295-9819 Storie Street Grille 1167 Main St. (828) 295-7075 Subway 8433 Valley Blvd.

(828) 295-7827 Sunny Rock Eggs and Things 8146 Valley Blvd.

(828) 414-9636 The Table at Crestwood 3236 Shulls Mill Road (828) 963-6646 Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort 185 Chetola Lake Drive (828) 295-5505 The Town Tavern 1182 Main St. (828) 295-7500 Twigs 7956 Valley Blvd.

(828)295-5050 Village Café 146 Greenway Court (828) 295-3769 Woodlands Barbecue and Picking Parlor 8304 Valley Blvd.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 27, 2019

FILE PHOTO A hunter-class horse jumps over an obstacle on Saturday, July 28, at the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show.

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Nestled west of downtown Blowing Rock, the L.M. Tate Showgrounds at the Broyhill Family Equestrian Preserve will come to life during the summer, as it has for each the previous 95 years.

The oldest continually running annual charity horse show in the eastern half of the United States, the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show kicked off June 6-9 with the saddlebreds. Then in July, the gates will be brought up for the Hunters and Jumpers on July 23-28 and July 31 to Aug. 4.

The show brings up dozens of stables, riders, owners and support staff over the week to Blowing Rock, not to mention hundreds of horses.

The Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show remains popular not just because of its history and competition, but also because of its proximity to the Moses Cone Park and Bass Lake, which offer miles of mountain trails for riders and their horses to enjoy.

The BRCHS has been honored six times as a United Professional Horsemen’s Association Chapter 12 show of the year. In February, the BRCHS was honored

THE BROYHILL EQUESTRIAN PRESERVE The Blowing Rock Horse Show Foundation owns and operates The Broyhill Equestrian Preserve, which is the site of the annual horse show. The Preserve also provides long-term and shortterm horse boarding, overnight camper space rental, horse trailer parking, and a convenient horse and carriage friendly access to the 27 miles of roads and trails in the Moses Cone Memorial Park.

The Cone Park is a 3,516-acre fixture of the National Park system located along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Throughout the warmer months hundreds of riders and drivers bring their horses to Blowing Rock to enjoy Cone’s beautiful trails and carriage roads. This has put ever increasing pressures on the maintenance budget for the historic facilities at the Preserve.

Protecting the show grounds with a summer population of longterm boarders along with the many visits of short-term horse enthusiasts is a primary responsibility of the Foundation. for the second consecutive year as one of the Top 10 hunter-jumper shows in the nation by the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame, the only show in the Southeast to earn the distinction.

Out of the nominees, the BRCHS is the only horse show in the Southeast to be listed.

A sanctioned U.S. Equestrian Federation Heritage Competition event, the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show provides funding for a number of worthy causes, including Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue, Rotary International, Appalachian State University Equestrian Team, Horse Helpers of the

High Country, the Watauga Humane Society, Danny and Ron’s Rescue and other charities.

TICKETS Tickets for spectators at the Blowing Rock Horse Show are $10 per day per spectator with ticket holders allowed to come and go during the day. Children ages 12 and younger are free.

Boxes featuring six seats, when available, are $300 during the Saddlebred Competition and for $500 for both weeks of the Hunter/ Jumper events.

For more information, call the BRCHS at (828) 295-4700.

Thursday, June 27, 2019

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications -

No shortage of sounds in the Village

Live music flows through the air on many an evening in the melodious village of Blowing Rock.

Restaurants and outdoor venues across town provide ample opportunity to hear the musical stylings of local talent, from bluegrass to jazz to opera, and other genres in-between.

Woodlands Barbeque Restaurant has live music daily starting at 6 p.m., with The Neighbors on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, Gene Goforth on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and Phil Stinson on Fridays.

The Inn at Crestwood highlights local talent with their Summer Music Series every Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. now until Oct. 17. Evan Button, Danny Whittington, Folk & Dagger, Miller & Pardue Duo, Redleg Husky, Analog Poets and Backstreet Trio are some of the groups performing during the series.

At the Meadowbrook Inn, find the High Country Jazz Society performing live con-

Over 1000 different hats of the world

FILE PHOTO Music lovers gather at the Inn at the Ragged Gardens in Blowing Rock to kick off the weekend at the weekly Concerts on the Lawn series.

certs open to the public every second Sunday of the month from May through October.

Reserved dinner seating starts at 6 p.m., and the concert

begins at 7 p.m.

Fridays through Oct. 11, The Inn at Ragged Gardens holds an outdoor concert series, Music on the Lawn.

Performers such as the Harris Brothers, Soul Benefactor, King Bees and Shelby Rae Moore Band play from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. A different non-

profit is invited every week to educate the audience about its cause.

Town Tavern also showcases local talent for its live

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music, which can be heard frequently in evening and at night. Performance dates and times vary, so visit http:// www.towntavernbr.com/ live-music-and-eventsblowing-rock-nc/ for more information.

For more outdoor music in Blowing Rock, bring a chair or blanket to check out the Monday Night Concert Series in Broyhill Park. These free concerts start at 7 p.m. at the Broyhill Park gazebo at 173 Lakeside Drive every Monday night in July.

Summer concerts will be Amy Marie, Krista Wells Atwood, Matt Primm and Andy Page on July 1, jazz guitarist Andy Page and friends on July 8, DownTown Abby & The Echoes on July 15, opera performer David Clark and friends on July 22 and Amy Marie Young, Krista Wells Atwood and Matt Primm on July 29.

The village of Blowing Rock also provides live music in Memorial Park on Main Street from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

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N.C. High Country Host Regional Center helps people find their way

BY STEVE BEHR

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Not everybody who travels to the High Country knows all that the area has to offer.

For those folks who have questions about what to do, where to eat, where to stay and all other questions beyond, the N.C. High Country Host Regional Center is here to help. The visitor’s center, located at the corner of 6370 U.S. Highway 321 South and Edmisten Road in Blowing Rock, is a good place to start when learning about what’s going on in the High Country.

The center, which is open at 9 a.m. every day and closes at 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, is staffed with eight local employees, who are called “travel counselors,” and who can answer any questions that tourists may have about the area.

“We are here to provide resources to visitors of various sorts,” said J.P. Greene, who works at the center. “We’re a membership organization. All of our members have literature here. We also produce an annual publication with listings and ads and our literature is in all the other visitors centers.”

Greene said the visitor center does some marketing to attract people to the High Country.

“They are absolutely from all over,” Greene said. “We’ve get people from all over the U.S. and the east coast and the Midwest. We’ve got Canadians and a fair number of international visitors such as Europeans and from Australia and China.

Depending on the season, those people may include people from the Southeast, who are often just trying to relax in cooler temperatures. Greene said international visitors often read about the area and want to see the mountain.

“It’s picking up,” Greene said. “We expect it to pick up this time of year. There are residents coming back and school’s out, so people are coming for vacation.”

Greene also said the Blue Ridge Parkway is a source of people visiting the center.

Since June is the vacation season, Greene said the center is seeing more visitors.

There is no restaurant at the center, but the staff often gets requests for directions to one.

“We’re right on the Parkway exit,” Greene said. “Folks come for a pit-stop and for information.”

The center is also open during the winter months, but closes during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Greene said skiers do not visit the center all that much since they typically have knowledge of the area.

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To explore the High Country from Blowing Rock, the Blue Ridge Parkway is your path

BY DEREK HALSEY

While staying in the beautiful resort town of Blowing Rock, you will be surrounded by awesome views, fine restaurants, live music, boutiques and other unique shopping opportunities, strolls down Main Street for ice cream and other treats and more.

Yet, to truly expand your adventure and explore these highest mountains east of the Rockies in a deeper way, there is a historic road nearby that should be your path.

Whether biking or hiking is your bag or the desire to drive to amazing places is more your preference, the Blue Ridge Parkway is ready to guide you.

The Blue Ridge Parkway runs from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia all of the way to the Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina. It is 469 miles in length, carved out of the mountains by the Federal government more than 80 years ago. Yet, the first 65 miles of the Parkway that begins near Blowing Rock include some of the best and most sought-out sections to be found on this paved nature-infused turnpike.

There are two ways to get on the Blue Ridge Parkway from Blowing Rock. On the main drag that runs through town, take Hwy. 321 north towards Boone and you will quickly find the on ramp to the Parkway. If you are in downtown Blowing Rock, however, take Hwy. 221 west out of town and within a few miles you will see the sign for the Parkway as well.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is marked by concrete mileposts that you will see along the side of the road.

With so many pull offs, trailheads and attractions to see that veer off the roadway, and with GPS not always working in the more remote areas, the mileposts are very helpful.

While leaving Blowing Rock, the first stop on the Parkway should be the

historic Moses Cone Park and the Flat Top Manor home that was once the house of the Cone Family, a successful denim and textile business family who donated their homestead and more than 4,000 acres to the National Park Service.

The Flat Top Manor home, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is in the process of being renovated during the spring and summer of 2019, yet you will still be able to stop in and visit the Appalachian Arts and Crafts Store. Every item for sale in the store has been handmade by artisans that are members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The store has been operated by the Guild and the National Park Service since 1951.

The parking lot of the Flat Top Manor will also lead you to the Fire Tower Overlook Trail, an uphill 4-mile round trip path that is fun to walk on a sunny day. In the 4,000-acre park, you will also find the trails that encircle both Bass Lake and Trout Lake, the secluded and gorgeous Rich Mountain Carriage Trail, the Watkins and Black Bottom Trails and other roadways that make up 25 miles of wide, well-maintained and easy to walk pathways.

Along the trails you find the remnants of the more than 30,000 apple trees that the Cone Family planted many years ago on their land as well as blooming rhododendrons, mountain laurels and other fauna.

Moses Cone Park and Flat Top Manor are located at BRP milepost 294.

Once back on the Parkway heading south, you will find spectacular views and trail heads for the next 25 miles.

For those wanting to hike or step out to take in a great view, look for the parking lots for the Wilson Creek Valley View Overlook, the Rough Ridge Trail (milepost 300), the Yonahlossee Overlook Trail that runs alongside and underneath

the world-famous Linn Cove Viaduct at milepost 304 (The viaduct is a section of the Parkway that literally hangs out over the edge of Wilson Creek Gorge), the Linn Cove Viaduct Information Center and the Beacon Heights Trail located at milepost 305.

At Milepost 305, you will also see the exit for Grandfather Mountain State Park.

There you will find many sights and activities for the whole family including a wild animal zoo, trails to hike, a gift shop, restaurant and the famous Mile High Bridge to walk across. The views are stunning and on a rare, crystal-clear day you can see the skyline of Charlotte 90 miles away on the horizon.

The exit also leads to the resort town of Banner Elk and the Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain ski resorts along with Grandfather Mountain winery and Banner Elk Winery. Both of the wineries feature live music on summer weekend afternoons. In the summer months, Beech Mountain Ski Resort opens its 5506’ Skybar featuring mountaintop views and brews

and live music on Saturday afternoons.

For those of you wanting to get off of the hard road for a while to do some serious hiking, go online and research information about wilderness trails in this area such as Big Lost Cove Cliff Trail, Little Lost Cove Cliff Trail, Darkside Cliff Trail, North Harper Creek Falls Trail, the Flat Rock Trail and more.

At milepost 316, you will find the Linville Falls Visitors Center, campground and picnic area. For an easy and amazing view of Linville Falls and Linville Gorge, drive farther ahead on the Parkway to the Hwy. 221 exit at milepost 317. Once exited, turn left onto Hwy. 221 and then take another left onto Rte. 183 less than a mile ahead. About 7-tenths of a mile on Rte. 183, you will find a gravel road on the right with signs that will lead you to Linville Falls.

The first parking lot you will see on the left leads to two short, moderate yet awesome trails that lead to different views of Linville Falls as well as the gorge it flows into, which extends for another 12 miles in the

distance. Four miles further down the gravel road past Linville Falls will bring you to the magnificent Wiseman’s View Gorge Overlook.

But, do not make the trek to Wiseman’s View unless the road is completely dry if you have a two wheel drive vehicle, and if it is wet, only go if your vehicle has all wheel drive or four wheel drive capability.

If you turn right on Hwy. 221 at the same exit as mentioned above but turn right instead of left, you will find Linville Falls Winery a couple of miles away with live music offered every weekend afternoon.

For you more adventurous hikers, Linville Gorge Wilderness Area provides many moderate to difficult trails to explore. When hiking in Linville Gorge, however, know your limits, prepare properly and pack right so your hike will remain safe and fun as it truly is a wilderness area. Trails to seek out include the Hawksbill Mountain Summit Trail, the Table Rock Mountain Summit Trail, the Rock Jock Rim Trail, the Chimneys Rim Trail and more.

If you wish to extend your

daytrip, continue along the Blue Ridge Parkway heading south until you find even more places to explore such as Crabtree Falls, the town of Little Switzerland, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals, the live music venue known as the Orchard at Altapass and more until you arrive at the city of Asheville and the Great Smoky Mountains further west.

Eventually, you will find the turn off to Mount Mitchell at milepost 355.

At 6,683 feet in elevation, Mount Mitchell is the highest mountain east of the Rocky Mountains and the good news is that you can drive virtually all of the way to the top.

As a side note, much of the Blue Ridge Parkway that is mentioned above will be repaved during this summer of 2019. The good news is that they will only close one lane at a time, and they will not be repaving on the weekends so all lanes will be open then. Also, just in case, Hwy. 221 heading west out of Blowing Rock can be used as a short-cut to Grandfather Mountain and Linville Falls and Linville Gorge should the need arise.

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Shows, festivals and markets ing Rock Historical Society has hosted a summer artists-in-residency program at the Edgewood Cottage on Main Street in downtown Blowing Rock from late June through the end of July During that time, folks are invited to stop by the cottage and meet with the different local artists and discuss their work and techniques. You might even find that perfect piece of art for your home. The cottage is the former home and studio of American impressionist Elliott Daingerfield.

BY THOMAS SHERRILL thomas.sherrill@blowingrocket.com

A few decades ago, Blowing Rock was known primarily as a summer destination.

About 1,000 people lived year-round in Blowing Rock and its surrounding neighborhoods and life during the other three seasons was relatively uneventful.

Not anymore. If anything, Blowing Rock has become an “event-full” place, with annual festivals and get-togethers occurring all year long.

Get your hands on a calendar and a pen, because you’re going to need them. Here’s a sampler of what you can expect during a typical year in Blowing Rock:

MOVIES IN THE PARK During the summer months when the kids are out of school, the Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation Department holds its Movies in the Park series in Memorial Park on Thursday nights in June and July.

Enjoy a free family-friendly movie with the kids in a beautiful outdoor setting.

WINTERFEST For four days each January, Blowing Rock invites the rest of the world to come and play in its winter wonderland. Events such as the Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake, the delicious WinterFeast dinner, the chili cookoff, wine tasting and auction, hayrides and ice-carving competition make Winterfest one of the top visitor draws of the entire year, enticing families to visit us again and again.

BLOWING ROCK’S BIRTHDAY Each year in March, local residents get together at Town Hall and celebrate Blowing Rock’s birthday. First incorporated in 1890, the town celebrated its 128th birthday in 2018. During the celebration, the presentation of new historic markers takes place and distinctive plaques are given to buildings and places that have made our town so special all these years.

PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL Gary Brown, co-owner of new restaurant Chef and Somm, pours a red wine for a tasting during SAVOR Blowing Rock.

egg hunt in Blowing Rock Memorial Park.

SAVOR BLOWING ROCK Formerly the Blue Ridge Wine and Food Festival, Savor Blowing Rock is a four-day foray into the world of fine dining, wine, brews and cocktails. Now held in Blowing Rock in early May, Savor has become one of the largest such events in the state. The festival, presented by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, features the Grand Tasting, wine and food workshops, live music events and much more.

No town celebrates the opening of trout season like Blowing Rock. Each year in April the town invites new and experienced anglers to take part in the Blowing Rock Trout Derby, held at Broyhill Lake, Bass Lake, Trout Lake, Price Lake and on the Middle Fork of the New River. Trophies and other prizes are awarded for first fish caught, biggest fish, and other categories.

It’s the perfect way to start a new hobby or keep up with an old one.

MADE IN THE MOUNTAINS QUILT EVENT

FARMERS MARKET

Hosted by The Blowing Rock Quilt Cooperative, the Made in the Mountains Quilt event offers three days of workshops, shopping and all-things quilting. In 2019, the event took place in late March.

The Blowing Rock Farmers Market is held on Park Avenue from 4-6 p.m. every Thursday between May and October. Enjoy some of the finest vegetables, meat, honey and bakery products from Watauga and the surrounding counties.

EASTER FESTIVAL Some of Blowing Rock’s annual events are aimed at giving our youngest citizens a chance to have fun and enjoy themselves.

The Blowing Rock Easter Festival features fun and games at the Parks and Recreation building, a chance to have pictures taken with the Easter Bunny, and a giant Easter

CONCERTS IN THE PARK In conjunction with Art in the Park weekends, the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce hosts a number of free concerts in Blowing Rock Memorial Park the Sunday after Art in the Park. These shows always attract a crowd and feature everything from steel drum bands to Oktoberfest bands. Shows start at 4 p.m.

CHARITY HORSE SHOWS ART IN THE PARK For more than 55 years, Art in the Park has been Blowing Rock’s monthly gathering of between 80-100 artists along Park Avenue in downtown between May and October. During the height of the summer season, Art in the Park features nearly 100 artist booths and is visited by almost 7,000 people looking for that one of a kind gift or keepsake. Free shuttle services from parking lots at Tanger and Food Lion in Blowing Rock is offered during the event.

Art in the Park is presented by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce.

TROUT DERBY

tunities. The event takes place in late May and early June.

RUMMAGE SALE Hosted by the Blowing Rock Women’s Club, the annual rummage sale offers residents and visitors a chance to look at thousands of different items, from table decor to books to chairs and much more.

All proceeds go to local scholarship oppor-

Named one of the Top 10 hunter shows in the country by the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame, the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show is home to the longest continually running annual horse show in the eastern half of the country, running strong for more than 90 years. This event brings horse lovers to town for three weeks each summer and the usually quiet Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve becomes its own little town filled with competition and pageantry. The first week in early June features Saddlebred competition, while the final two weeks in July and August are devoted to Hunters and Jumpers.

JERRY BURNS DAY Every June 19, folks gather at the Edgewood Cottage on the corner of Ginny Stevens Lane and Main Street to remember Jerry Burns, the longtime editor of The Blowing Rocket who passed away in 2010, through a telling of stories about the rich and colorful history of the town. Known as “Mr. Blowing Rock,” Burns embodied the spirit of the village and his love of its history and legacy.

FOURTH OF JULY It has been said that Blowing Rock’s Fourth of July celebration is something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Held on the weekend closest to the holiday, the festivities include an old-fashioned horse shoe pitching competition, live bluegrass music, games for the kids, a dance in the park and a parade down Main Street.

Fireworks lovers can either see them at Blowing Rock Country Club.

MONDAY NIGHT CONCERTS Presented by Amy Marie Productions and Blowing Rock Parks and Rec, the Monday Night Concert Series takes place at Broyhill Lake on Monday evenings in July.

The free concerts start at 7 p.m. with a rain location at the American Legion Hall.

HIGHLAND GAMES The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games are held the second weekend of July in the shadow of Grandfather Mountain itself. The annual gathering of the Scottish clans sees thousands take part in traditional games, dancing, music and numerous instructional seminars. So grab your kilt and bagpipes and join in the fun.

TOUR OF HOMES Blowing Rock has no shortage of beautiful homes, some of them a little more off the beaten path than others. St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church annually hosts a Tour of Homes in July, with bus tours taking visitors on informative and entertaining tours of five or six of Blowing Rock’s most breathtaking residences. The event also features a big bazaar on the front lawn of the church. Money raised by the Tour of Homes is used to fund many worthwhile projects in Blowing Rock.

ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE For the last several years, the Blow-

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Thursday, June 27, 2019

EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

SYMPHONY BY THE LAKE Summer just wouldn’t be summer in Blowing Rock without the astounding Symphony by the Lake at Chetola, held the last Friday of July. This event brings world-class music to an outdoor stage at Chetola Resort.

Regularly attracting several thousand music lovers to a beautiful picnic setting for food, great live music and fireworks.

ART AND ANTIQUES SHOW The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum hosts a three-day antique show the first weekend of August. The show features high-end antiques from all over the Southeast, as well as other special event.

MEMORIAL DAY Blowing Rock never forgets to remember Memorial Day. More than 100 people gathered in Blowing Rock Memorial Park to hear veterans’ stories of how they made it home after defending our freedoms, even as some of their comrades did not.

The event is complete with a community singing of patriotic songs.

FASHION SHOW Going strong for more than 40 years, the Blowing Rock Charity Fashion Show and Luncheon is an annual fundraiser, formerly for the Blowing Rock Hospital, now for the Foley Center at Chestnut Ridge. The event is held during the summer at Blowing Rock Country Club.

COMMUNITY DAYS The Blowing Rock Community Foundation hosts several fundraising events each summer including a golf tournament, tennis tournament and the Groovy Nights talent show. Proceeds from the events go toward local nonprofits and college scholarship funds for students from Blowing Rock.

ROTARY AUCTION The Blowing Rock Charity Auction is held each August at the American Legion Hall. The event features both a live and silent auction with hundreds of items up for bid. Proceeds from the event go toward local causes.

BLOWING ROCK MUSIC FESTIVAL The Blowing Rock will be the site of the fifth annual Blowing Rock Music Festival in September. With a mix of Americana, folk, blues, rock, jazz and soul music, there is something for everyone.

HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL The Blowing Rock Halloween Festival is

another of those events where you’ll wish you were a kid again. The Blowing Rock Parks and Rec will host trick-or-treating with the downtown merchants, a monster march of costumes, a scavenger hunt by Broyhill Lake and much more. For the past several years, a haunted house in the Blowing Rock School auditorium has been one of the focal points of Halloween in the Village.

THANKSGIVING KILN OPENING Traditions Pottery and Bolick Pottery, both located in the Blackberry community just south of Blowing Rock, host two great kiln openings a year: one in the middle of the summer and one on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Folks come from miles around to watch the beautiful pottery being removed from the special wood-fired kiln and then scrap like they’re at sale at Macy’s to get their favorite pieces. The day also includes live music, storytelling and plenty of crafts.

FESTIVAL OF TREES The annual Festival of Trees at Chetola Resort during the holiday season is a fundraiser for the Western Youth Network.

Come and bid on a variety of pre-decorated Christmas trees and wreaths, donated by the High Country Association of Christmas Tree Growers and decorated by local businesses and organizations.

HOMETOWN HARVEST SUPPER For the past few years, Blowing Rock has hosted one of the best potluck dinners the world has ever witnessed. The Hometown Harvest Supper takes place at Blowing Rock Fire Station No. 1 on Valley Blvd. the second weekend in November. Complete with cake decorating contest, this is a true taste of what small town living is all about.

The event is also used as a fundraiser and food drive for local food banks trying to fill their shelves before Thanksgiving.

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK Blowing Rock wastes little time starting the holiday season. Each year the town celebrates its Christmas in the Park and Lighting of the Town celebration on the Friday after Thanksgiving. And it hosts its annual Christmas parade the next day on Saturday. Christmas in the Park features fun, games, hot chocolate and cider and plenty of live music in Memorial Park. Get in the holiday spirit just a little early this year by spending it in Blowing Rock.

NEW YEAR AT ASM Celebrate New Year’s Eve with some nighttime skiing at Appalachian Ski Mtn. The event includes a special holiday menu, torchlight parade and fireworks at midnight.

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