Blowing Rock My Hometown 2021

2021

Retail ∙ Entertainment ∙ Restaurants ∙ Events ∙ Important Numbers Utilities ∙ The Chamber of Commerce ∙ Civic Groups and Much More!

Supplement to

Page 2 • Mountain Times Publications

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Letter from the mayor

I

would like to welcome our visitors and summer residents to our beautiful town of Blowing Rock. The year 2020 was a very different year for all of us, and my heart and prayers go out to all of our citizens and visitors.

Moving into 2021, we should see the return of normalcy with the resumption of Art in the Park, outdoor entertainment at local venues, restaurants resuming

to full capacity, the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show in June and July, Independence Day festivities July 2-4, Saint Mary’s Tour of Homes (which will be virtual in Sellers 2021 and in-person in 2022), and the Symphony by the Lake at Chetola the end of July.

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum and the 1888 museum, local tourist attractions and all retailers will be totally open or operating with limited schedules.

During 2020 and 2021, a number of very positive changes have and are taking place in our community: the completion of phase 1 of our Blowing Rock Memorial park expansion, side-

walk to Bass Lake parallel to Hwy. 221 completion in June, and new crosswalk signage at Sunset, Main Street and 221, which should enhance safety for our pedestrians.

Once again, welcome to all of you that make our town a special place to visit and call home.

Charlie Sellers mayor of Blowing Rock, NC

Letter from Charles Hardin

W

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

The Summer Book Box reading program features books for each grade level, encouraging students to either catch up or surpass their actual grade level.

Blowing Rock School

BY DAVID ROGERS A part of the Watauga County School District and with an enrollment that averages “about 350” students in grades K-8, Blowing Rock School has few peers when it comes to excellence in elementary education. The teachers care about their students’ learning, as evidenced by a broadly participated in, innovative reading program aimed at getting the right level books to students at whatever grade they are in.

“Even by the time students arrive in my fifth grade class,” said teacher Susan Trew, “there is a wide spectrum of reading levels among them. Many

are at fifth grade level, of course, and a few are ahead, but there are a good number that are reading at a level or two below. So our challenge is to get them caught up without disrupting the at-level or above-level students’ achievements.”

Principal Patrick Sukow understands the importance of the reading initiative.

“Reading is at the core of everything in education, whether you are studying history or literature, science or mathematics,” said Sukow.

Reading interventionists and teachers Laurie Gill and Kathy Newton have been instrumental in starting a couple

of reading programs designed to help students’ catch up or at least maintain their grade-level reading skills and maybe even get ahead. They are spearheading a Summer Reading Box program, as well as promoting the use of a Shared Teacher Library.

Until the program was reportedly abandoned in 2018, Blowing Rock School was one of four schools statewide that consistently earned recognition as an Honor School of Excellence.

Among other progressive features of elementary education, Blowing Rock School was the first school in Watauga County to have a School Resource Officer hired by the town.

elcome to the Village of Blowing Rock!

Resident or visitor, you are most likely familiar with the charm of Blowing Rock. Our historic downtown is a picturesque backdrop for our community. The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce has partnered with The Blowing Rocket for 10 years to produce Blowing Hardin Rock My Hometown. The goal of this publication is to showcase all Blowing Rock has to offer year-round. From shopping, dining, outdoor activities and social events, our town has a myriad of things to do. The chamber has been supporting the Blowing Rock business community since 1927. We take pride in our members and their commitment to being the best that Western North Carolina has to offer. Please join us at one of our chamber-sponsored events, Art in the Park, select Saturday’s May-October, Symphony by the Lake in late July and WinterFest in January. The chamber also produces a farmers market on Thursday afternoons May–September.

Blowing Rock is a great place to live, work, own a business or play. Stop by our office and let us help you make your Blowing Rock dream a reality!

Charles Hardin, President/ CEO Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Mountain Times Publications • Page 3

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Blowing Rock 132 years old and counting fore it became more permanently a town mostly in Watauga County f Blowing Rock has a hallwith a slice of its town limits in mark characteristic, it is the Caldwell County, at different times weather. At nearly 4,000 Blowing Rock has been claimed by feet elevation, during the six different county jurisdictions. years the town developed as a Both Union and Confederate sanctuary for lowlanders wanting armies passed through the region to escape the oppressive heat of during the Civil War. Allegiances summer in the Piedmont and were split, often tearing apart coastal areas of the South and families and neighbors.

Mid-Atlantic states. The proliferWhile up until about 1900, you ation of broadband Internet could might find livestock running freely change things, of course, but tour- on a dirt and gravel Main Street, ism and seasonal residency have today a more gentrified Blowing been and are the major economic Rock boasts of a vibrant downtown drivers of yesteryear and today. commercial district with one-of-aAnd Blowing Rock has its attrac- kind retail shops, art galleries and tions. The most visited national eateries. Popular events include the park in the U.S., the Blue Ridge Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show Parkway, brushes along the north- — the longest running professional ern town limits and slices through equestrian event in the U.S. — with Blowing Rock’s extra-territorial its nearly 1,000 horses over three jurisdiction. The Moses Cone Esweeks of competition in Saddlebred tate, donated to the National Park and Hunter-Jumper divisions, and Service, symbolizes the impact of their accompanying riders, owners, seasonal residents as the former and trainers; Art in the Park; Tour summer home of Moses Cone (the of Homes; Symphony by the Lake; Denim King) and his wife, Bertha. and the increasingly popular 4th of Freely accessed by the public, the July Parade that brings a touch of estate’s 26 miles of rhododendron- Rockwellian pageantry to the High and tree-lined carriage trails evoke Country every year. active imaginations to contemplate With climate change, the winters a long gone time and place. in Blowing Rock have not been so The Blowing Rock, Grandfather severe in recent years, but the resMountain, Tweetsie Railroad, idents and visitors alike still enjoy Doc’s Gem Mine and Appalachian Winterfest.

Fossil Museum, the Blowing Rock Advances in communicaArt & History Museum, Mystery tions technology, i.e. broadband Hill and, in St. Mary of the Hills Internet and mobile telephones, Episcopal and Rumple Memorial brought the realization during Presbyterian, a couple of churches the COVID-19 pandemic that you almost a century and a half old are aren’t required to live in massively key attractions. congested, urban environments to Local author Steve Suddreth’s be productive. You can live, work, “Trails Through Time” documents and play just about anywhere. that Blowing Rock has been the More and more, people are choosfocal point of change since well ing Blowing Rock and the High before its 1889 town charter. BeCountry of North Carolina.

BY DAVID ROGERS

I

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Blowing Rock Town Hall is at 1036 Main St., Blowing Rock.

Town Government

BY DAVID ROGERS The town of Blowing Rock operates under the council/manager form of government. Under the council/manager plan, the town council is the legislative body for the community and makes broad policy decisions. The town manager, who is appointed by the Council, is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Town government. He supervises all department heads and Town staff, prepares a recommended budget for the council’s consideration, serves as the chief adviser for the Council on policy and administrative matters, and implements the council’s policy decisions.

Current elected officials holding office in Blowing Rock include Mayor Charlie Sellers, Mayor Pro-Tem Sue Sweeting and Town Council members Albert Yount, Doug Matheson, David Harwood and Virginia Powell.

Town council 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.

The central telephone number for Town Hall is 828-295-5200.

Key Departments and Officials Town Manager — Shane Fox Finance Officer — Nicole Norman Town Clerk/Tax Collector — Hilari Hubner Chief of Police — Aaron Miller Emergency Services Director — Kent Graham Public Works Director — Matt Blackburn Planning Director — Kevin Rothrock Building Inspector — John Warren Parks & Recreation Director — Jennifer Brown Landscape Specialist — Cory Cathcart Water/Wastewater — Douglas Lee

Page 4 • Mountain Times Publications

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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): 2955210 Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue (non-emergency): 548-2800 Blowing Rock Plus Urgent Care: 295-3116 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: 295-5222 Parks and Recreation: 295-5222 Blowing Rock School: 295-3204 Village Pharmacy: 295-3482 High Country Council of Governments: 2655434 Blue Ridge Energy: 264-8894 High Country Host/ ASM Welcome Center:

(800) 438-7500 Appalachian Energy: 262-3637 Carolina West Wireless: (336) 973-5000 Charter Business: (833) 267-6094 Skyline Membership Corporation: 963-1350 Wireless Center/Verizon Wireless: (800) 922-0204 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum: 295-9099 Moses Cone Memorial Park: 295-3782 Linn Cove Visitors Center: 348-3400

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Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 5

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Page 6 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS FILE PHOTO

A hunter-class horse jumps over an obstacle during the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show.

Dream Designer, ridden by Susan Creekmore, wins top honors in the American Saddlebreds Park Amateur Championship, at the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show. The horse is owned by Thomas Brock, trained by Evan Orr.

Riding high

Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show nearing a century of competition

dollars of prize money at stake.

In 1897, the Lenoir News-Topic wrote Advertised as the “longest, continually runabout the “Tournament at Green Park,” a ning equestrian event in the United States,” gymkhana of games on horseback and an each year the Blowing Rock Charity Horse “equine fashion show for the amusement of Show attracts hundreds of horses, as well as hotel guests.” By 1923, at the hands of L.M. their riders, owners, trainers, support staff and Tate, the horse show took on a more formal families. An economic impact study estimates atmosphere with rules and whatnot, the first that the three weeks of equestrian classes in held along Green Hill Road. After Thomas Saddlebred and Hunter-Jumper divisions Broyhill purchased roughly 1,000 acres of bring nearly $10 million — perhaps much what is now the Mayview neighborhood of more — to the community in the form of lodg- Blowing Rock, the horse show was moved ing, restaurants, attraction and retail business. to the site of a little-used golf course and It also brings spectacle and entertainment intended to be an attraction for what Broyhill for the hundreds of people entering the developed as Mayview Manor Hotel. In 1934, grounds of the Broyhill Equestrian Preserve, Broyhill sold the horse show grounds to the the horse show venue, to watch the pageantry Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show Associaand be thrilled by the athletic achievements of tion “for the tidy sum of $1.” both horse and rider. You don’t have to know The Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show is the difference between a hackney, a roadster, a nothing if not resilient. It has survived ecopleasure park and a hunter derby to enjoy the nomic recessions, depressions, World War II, power and elegance of the Blowing Rock Char- and even COVID-19 largely because it is fun ity Horse Show — and its many thousands of and fantastic.

BY DAVID ROGERS

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Copper and Kings, with Sofia Rashid at the reins, earns second place in the American Saddlebred Show Pleasure Driving Championship class of the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show. The horse is owned by C&S Holdings/Stacy Rashid and trained by Kim Cowart.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 7

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Page 8 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

High Country Host offers insider info to visitors The rolling peaks and valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountains are what make the High Country area so scenic, and they also make for plenty of winding, curvy, two-lane roads, making a road trip a destination in itself.

But that means those two destinations you see on a map may not be as “close together” as you would imagine, and travel time takes longer than it would in flatter areas off the mountain. That’s where a stop or call to the High Country Host regional welcome center comes in — they can help you plan your day trips so that you’re not spending big chunks of your vacation in the car.

“People don’t realize that in the mountains, (destinations are) farther apart than in the city,” said Candice Cook, executive marketing director for High Country Host.

North Carolina High Country Host operates the Official Regional Welcome Center located between Boone and Blowing Rock, within view of N.C. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost Exit 291.

The Welcome Center provides maps, brochures, coupons, upcoming event handouts and travel counselor support, as well as clean public restrooms and an area to walk your pets. The center is housed (but not affiliated with) as part of Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s visitor kiosk.

For 40 years, High Country Host has represented destinations in five counties, including the towns of Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, West Jefferson, Wilkesboro and Sparta.

High Country Host offers insider SEE HOST ON PAGE 9

PHOTO SUBMITTED

North Carolina High Country Host operates the Official Regional Welcome Center located on Hwy. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock, within view of N.C. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost Exit 291.

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Thursday, June 24, 2021

One of Blowing Rock’s oldest buildings

BY DAVID ROGERS

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

The Martin House, built in 1889, is one of Blowing Rock’s oldest buildings.

only by a small courtyard served as a boarding house, originally. It is among the oldest buildings in Blowing Rock.

It is located nearly in the center of downtown Blowing Rock, right next to the southern edge of Memorial Park. The old boarding

rooms have been converted to art galleries, gift shops, and even a coffee house.

And yes, the wooden floors still creak when you walk down the hallways — or was that the ghost of a boarder from long ago, tipping his hat as he says, “Hello.”

Serving Western NC with Excellence and Innovative Solutions

at reduced capacity. High Country Host is also working to provide information about what area attracCONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 tions and hotels are doing to keep information and updates that many people safe. visitors won’t find anywhere else. In At the center itself, the staff are addition to helping you plan your taking extra precautions. Hand day trips with travel time in mind, sanitizing stations are provided and High Country Host can advise on restrooms will be rotated and cleaned which hotels and lodging facilities every hour. More materials will be have vacancies. provided in outdoor take-home box“On busy weekends, we call es. And if visitors do not feel comfortaround and see what’s available,” able entering the visitor center, they said Cook. can call and staff will bring materials The visitor center staff can also out to visitors’ vehicles. advise on group size limits at var“We welcome people back to the ious establishments and whether High Country, and we look forward you can walk in the day of your to seeing our returning visitors,” visit or need to book several days in Cook said. advance, Cook said.

The High Country Host Official With the potential for COVID-19 Regional Welcome Center is to continue impacting operations located at 6370 U.S. Highway 321 at parks and tourism businesses, South in Blowing Rock, N.C. The as well as the peace of mind of area center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. visitors, the visitor center’s services Monday through Saturday and are more useful than ever. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

The center will keep updated lists For more information, call (828) of which businesses and events are 264-1299 or (800) 438-7500 or open and canceled, or are operating visit highcountryhost.com.

HOST

The Martin House Imagine being a visitor or short-term worker in the area during the late 1800s. Where do you stay?

As Blowing Rock was becoming a popular destination, but still a largely rural town, increased demand for short-term lodging emerged and The Martin House was built in 1889 to take advantage of that market opportunity. What are now a dozen shops in the main building and the adjacent building separated

Mountain Times Publications • Page 9

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

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Page 10 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Memorial Park A downtown centerpiece of fun and culture

BY DAVID ROGERS Like many small towns across America, Blowing Rock’s Memorial Park is a centerpiece of the downtown area. A recently renovated playground might better be described as “adventureland,” with all the bells and whistles that make a playground spectacular.

Sit on a row of benches facing

Main Street, maybe licking an ice cream cone or just enjoying a Chamber of Commerce day downtown, people-watching with that special someone.

The Rotary Gazebo was expanded a couple of years ago, now big enough for a small orchestra, but also to accommodate special ceremonies like the American Legion Veterans Day and Memorial Day events honoring

U.S. military men and women.

Back in the 1920s and 1930s, the Watauga Hotel graced the site of what is now Memorial Park, but after two separate fires destroyed the hotel and its successor, the property went into the hands of the town of Blowing Rock and became Memorial Park.

All that is left of the old hotel is a single cottage gracing the southeast corner of the park as

the 1888 Museum.

Today, Memorial Park is more than just the playground and gazebo, but home to horseshoes, shuffleboard, volleyball, tennis, pickleball and basketball.

Upgrades are in the works, with some areas being resurfaced as well as repurposed, and additional restroom facilities to be added.

Only a couple of the old red maple trees from the Watau-

ga Hotel days remain, others toppled and replaced with new trees a few years ago because the grand old red maples had begun to be eaten by disease, from the inside out, and branded a liability danger to park visitors.

The old trees may be gone, but the role of Memorial Park as the Rockwellian centerpiece of fun and culture in downtown remains.

DAVID ROGERS

How many kids can you cram into a Volkswagen ... er, playground swing?

This group had lots of fun in Blowing Rock’s Memorial Park.

Dueling Playgrounds

BY DAVID ROGERS FILE PHOTO

Kids gather for a photo at the Grover Robbins Swimming Complex in Blowing Rock.

Grover Robbins Swimming Complex

BY DAVID ROGERS The Grover Robbins Swimming Pool does more than catch the eye — it cools body, mind and soul, too.

Open to the public, the swimming complex is a popular place, especially for the younger set, on hot summer days. It is located at 173 Lakeside Drive.

The smaller, older pool was closed and renovated with the new complex opening in time for the summer season in 2015.

In Blowing Rock, kids love to play and two adventure-filled playgrounds provide ample opportunities for them to not only let off steam, but to develop physically from a very young age.

Thanks to a community wide initiative centered around Blowing Rock School several years ago, what had become an increasingly dangerous school playground morphed into a virtual Disneyland of activities, whether the interest was swinging, jumping, twirling, climbing, crawling, sliding, or whatever. Parents and family members raised over $300,000 and contractors donated not only expertise, but labor as well. A special feature

added last year: new restrooms.

More recently, a group of young parents grew frustrated with the aging and inadequate playground features in Memorial Park. So they marshaled together even more community forces, including the assent of the Blowing Rock Town Council, and led the effort to complete an extensive renovation to Blowing Rock’s Main Street playground facility. At a cost of $600,000, partially funded by grant monies, the Memorial Park playground has at least become a showplace, if not a destination for visitors and residents alike.

Both playground facilities are frequently used during the week and on weekends.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 11

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Page 12 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Blue Ridge Parkway Where nature never sleeps

BY DAVID ROGERS How many municipalities of any size can say that a US national park runs through their town? Not many, but Blowing Rock can and its name is the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is 469 miles of scenic views, from ridgeline vistas to quiet travels alongside lakes and through dense forests.

Millions of people travel the Parkway every year and they come from all over

the US and from around the world. Established in 1936 to connect the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks in Virginia and North Carolina, it was mostly completed in 1966, except for a an almost eight mile stretch around Grandfather Mountain. That was completed in 1987 with the final construction of the Linn Cove Viaduct.

FILE PHOTO

SEE PARKWAY ON PAGE 13

A section of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway runs through Blowing Rock.

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Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 13

FILE PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL

The parkway is nearly 500 miles of scenic views.

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FILE PHOTO

Bikers are a common site on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Remember to share the road.

PARKWAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

If nothing else, the Blue Ridge Parkway is about access: to trailheads offering easy to strenuous hiking adventures, to whitewater rafting, to canoeing and kayaking on quiet lakes, to ski adventures and fishing holes, to

wine tasting and art galleries, to historical sites and music festivals and so much more.

Much of the Blue Ridge Parkway is closed during the winter months due to snow and ice, but come the bursting colors of spring foliage, the autumn leaves, or as a respite from oppressive summer heat in the lowlands, the Blue Ridge Parkway becomes a major economic driver for nearby towns and villages, including Blowing Rock.

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Page 14 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Moses Cone Memorial Park A step back in time

BY DAVID ROGERS At about the turn into the 20th century, Moses Cone had become widely known as “The Denim King,” selling his textiles to the likes of Levi Strauss & Co. in San Francisco. While their manufacturing operations were mostly in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, centered on Greensboro, Cone and his wife Bertha, “summered” in the High Country.

The Cones started construction of the Flat Top Manor mansion in 1899 and it was finished in 1901. They also built out-buildings, including a carriage house and apple barn that survive even today, as well as servants’ quarters, caretakers’ farms and even a bowling alley.

Approximately 26 miles of carriage trails meander around the property, comprised of 3,496 acres. For today’s locals,the trails are known by colorful names such as “The Maze,” the “Backside” and “The Road to Nowhere,” to name a few.

Moses Cone died in 1908, but Bertha survived another 39 years, passing in 1947. The family made the estate a gift to the Moses Cone Hospital, but it later was donated to the National Park Service, with the requirement that it be named Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.

Today, Flat Top Manor and the Moses Cone Estate are free

FILE PHOTO

A photo from ‘Blue Ridge Parkway: Through Time’ shows the former country estate of Moses Cone at Milepost 294, near Blowing Rock. This picture of the manor house was taken Feb. 5, 2009.

FILE PHOTO

SEE MOSES CONE ON PAGE 15

Moses Cone Manor, located at milepost 294 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

FILE PHOTO

Moses Cone Manor is a history-rich estate along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The home was completed in 1901 to be a summer residence for Moses and Bertha Cone.

FILE PHOTO

Potter Lynn Jenkins of Valle Crucis demonstrates her technique on the front porch of Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate.

horseback riders. From time to time, you might even catch a glimpse of a surrey with CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 some fringe on top.

Flat Top Manor has a gift shop and for the public to enjoy. The carriage trails National Park Service manned information are popular respites for hikers, runners and center. It also serves as a showplace for

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Mountain Times Publications • Page 15

members of the Southern Highlands Craft Guild, featuring artists and artisans from around the region.

Some of the more popular venues on the estate are Bass Lake and Trout Lake. The carriage trails encircle each of them on

Food Truck

their way to other destinations.

Flat Top Manor is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation that should be completed in 2021. The makeover is estimated to cost more than $2 million, with the work primarily to restore the exterior features.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Broyhill Lake

BY DAVID ROGERS Need a tranquil spot to read or simply contemplate your existence? Behind the American Legion Building may be that special place: Broyhill Lake. Walk the path and sidewalks, sit on the grass or in the gazebo. Maybe even dangle your feet in the water. Watch the ducks and geese, whether they splash about in frolic or glide over the smooth face of the water alone or in tandem. Have a picnic.

On opening day of trout fishing weekend (first weekend in April, usually), you may find lots of fun and excitement during the Blowing Rock Trout Derby.

Organizers have the lake stocked with lots of fish for the “small fry” to catch.

Some are even tagged and worth cash prizes. Catch a big one, and maybe win even more!

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Broyhill Lake is a quiet, tranquil spot to relax, not very far from the hustle and bustle of Main Street.

TOGETHER, WE’RE STRONGER As a Blue Ridge Energy member, you have a powerful connection with your utility. That’s because you are much more than a customer. You’re a member-owner of an electric cooperative formed and governed by local people.

As a member, you elect the Board of Directors, with one member, one vote. You also receive capital credits — money back to you, those who use our services.

You have access to innovative services, energy efficiency resources, clean energy options and reliable power at the lowest possible cost, thanks to a dedicated team of employees.

Your cooperative also partners with the local community to attract new business, support healthcare and education and improve the quality of life in the area.

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Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 17

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Page 18 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Annie Cannon Gardens and the Glen Burney Trail some 800 feet into the Johns River Gorge, followOwned by the Town ing the path of New Year’s of Blowing Rock, Annie Creek. It passes through Cannon Gardens is a cute, native hardwood forests almost secret venue that with views of three wasits next to the trailhead of terfalls. The trail was first the Glen Burney Trail. Back used by native travelers in in the mid-2000s, The Ro- the region to get up and tary Club of Blowing Rock down the mountain, then built a wooden stage that later it connected logging has been used frequently camps, according to historby Blowing Rock School ical records. classes and their students.

Visitors to Blowing Rock A few years ago, severare often surprised at how al rotary members were much the Glen Burney is instrumental in fixing some an escape from what they features that had gone into know as everyday life. Out disrepair over the years. and back (up) requires Less than a football about two hours-plus. The field’s distance from Main getting back is described as Street, the Glen Burney strenuous, but then once Trail is a rugged, 1.6 mile back, folks can always find adventure. Not for the faint a shady nook for a nap in of heart, the trail drops Annie Cannon Gardens.

BY DAVID ROGERS

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Annie Cannon Gardens features a small outdoor stage that has featured many child productions. Just to the left of this photo is the trailhead of the Glen Burney Trail.

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Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 19

Clubs, Nonprofits and Civic Organizations If the number of clubs, nonprofits and civic organizations is any indication of a community’s health and vitality, then Blowing Rock is “in the pink.” The town has a variety of interests and special needs served through the work of these organizations.

(All phone numbers are in the 828 area code, except where noted) American Red Cross: 264-8226 Appalachian Women’s Fund: 264-4002 Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce: 295-7851 Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show Foundation: 295-4700 Blowing Rock Civic Association: 2953199 Blowing Rock Community Foundation: 295-3048 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum: 295-9099 Blowing Rock Young Professionals: 295-7581

Blowing Rock School PTO: 295-3204 Blowing Rock Garden Club: 295-3171 Blowing Rock Community Library: 295-7000 High Country Jazz Society: 264-6860 Blowing Rock Women’s Club: 4149900 Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation: (866) 308-2773 High Country United Way: 265-2111 Blowing Rock American Legion: 2955222 Watauga Humane Society: 264-7865 Dylan’s Hearts: (336) 365-2334 O.A.S.I.S. (Opposing Abuse with Shelter, Information and Service): 262-5035 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

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Blowing Rock’s Churches Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church 1218 Main Street (828) 295-7675 St. Mary of the Hills Episcopal Church 140 Chesnut Drive (828) 295-7323 First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock 350 Sunset Drive (828) 295-7715 Blowing Rock Methodist Church 1314 Main Street (828) 372-7009 Church of Epiphany Catholic Church 163 Galax Lane (828) 264-8338 FaithBridge United Methodist Church 194 Aho Road (828) 295-8333 First Independent Baptist Church

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Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church in Blowing Rock hosts services each Sunday.

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Page 20 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Doc’s Rocks 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.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

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Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 21

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Page 22 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Adventure awaits at Tweetsie Railroad

BY DAVID ROGERS

A

sk folks in the High Country what they missed the most during the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic lockdown and crowd restrictions in 2020, and many will say the toot-toot-tooting of Tweetsie Railroad’s train whistle echoing across the valleys and through the hills between Boone and Blowing Rock. And now, hearing that steam locomotive again, those same people will confess to the comfort of things returning to normal.

At least in these parts, North Carolina’s oldest theme park has that effect on young and old alike.

Standing in the middle of Tweetsie’s Main Street, at the depot, to hear that train a-comin’ ‘round the bend and seeing the steam bellowing out in all directions, the hearts of young and old alike skip a beat or two.

Board the train and adventure awaits in the distance, just around the next curve of the track.

The train is the center of Tweetsie’s universe. It is a ticket to the Wild West of yesteryear. Oh sure, while you wait for a turn on the train’s three-mile journey to and through yet unknown fun, you might sit high atop the Ferris wheel, play video games in the arcade, leave your heart at the top of your forehead on the “Free Fall” thrill ride, or be entertained by

IF YOU GO: TWEETSIE RAILROAD • 300 Tweetsie Railroad Land, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 • Phone: (800) 526-5740 • web: https://tweetsie. com • email: info@tweetsie.com • Park open now on limited days and opens seven days per week beginning June 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Special events include Day Out with Thomas, Fireworks Extravaganza July 4, K9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs, Riders in the Sky, Railroad Heritage Weekend. Call or visit the website for dates and times.

Diamond Lil and her cancan girls. But it is the train that stirs the imagination.

Through that huffing and puffing train, you walk back several pages in the history books to see cowboys and the calvary of the Wild West in America’s frontier of the 1800s.

Will there be a gunfight at the OK Corral? When the conductor cries, “All aboard!,” you can’t help but wonder if bandits lie in wait ahead, preparing for an ambush. The signs say, “Wild West Adventure” of a train ride — and the child in us all starts to remember every scene from every Western movie, trying to imagine what kind of adventure is in store for us.

Ever since the late Grover Robbins purchased the No. 12 narrow-gauge PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

SEE TWEETSIE ON PAGE 23

Tweetsie Railroad’s train comes into the station on April 2, 2021, right on time after a 3-mile loop around the park.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Mountain Times Publications • Page 23

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

John Misita tosses a purple disc to Bentley during the K-9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs show at Tweetsie Railroad.

TWEETSIE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

locomotive from Hollywood’s most famous “singin’ cowboy,” Gene Autry, for the price of $1 in 1955 and returned the coal-fired beast to its old Blue Ridge

PHOTO BY ANDREW COLE

Tweetsie Railroad’s historic steam train pulls into the amusement park’s station to pick up visitors on Tweetsie Railroad’s opening day.

Mountains home — where it was a workhorse engine in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina from 1918 to 1940 — Tweetsie Railroad has sparked imaginations young and old and served as a source of entertainment. Descendants of Robbins still own and operate the park.

While the No. 12 locomotive celebrates

its 104th anniversary in 2021, in 1960 the Tweetsie theme park acquired another coal-fired steam engine, No. 190, “The Yukon Queen.” It was originally built for the U.S. Army in 1943, and used in Alaska.

Tweetsie Railroad opens in early April and operates through late October, with special runs for “The Ghost Train” in Sep-

tember and October, as well as “Tweetsie Christmas” on weekends from late November through December.

From the petting zoo and gem mining to the many carnival rides and arcade, Tweetsie Railroad — and especially its Wild West Adventure train rides — is family friendly fun.

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Page 24 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

With Cornelia Laemmli Orth conducting, Symphony of the Mountains performs for Symphony by the Lake in Blowing Rock.

Symphony by the Lake organizers.

Symphony by the Lake is more Featuring the Tri-Cities-based than an orchestra performance.

Symphony of the Mountains, one It is an experience. There is a of Blowing Rock’s annual cultural competition for which patron tent highlights is Symphony by the is best decorated per the event Lake, produced by the Blowing theme, which changes from year Rock Chamber of Commerce. to year. Many outfit themselves While the symphony event was not in costumes to fit the occasion. staged in 2020 due to COVID-19 Hosted on the grounds of Chetola concerns, it returns in 2021, on Mountain Resort with the lake as a July 23. Before the pandemic, backdrop, there are food and bevsymphony crowds had reached to erages aplenty. A much anticipated more than 4,000, but the first year climax comes with a fireworks after the pandemic the attendance spectacular over the lake to match is planned as more limited, accord- the music. ing to the chamber of commerce This year, tickets are sure to go

BY DAVID ROGERS

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Patron tents encircle the lake in sponsorship of Symphony by the Lake in Blowing Rock.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 25

Page 26 • Mountain Times Publications

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

How do you celebrate the Fourth of July?

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Some costumes just defy explanation during a past July 4 parade in Blowing Rock.

4th of July Parade It’s the best of small town Americana

BY DAVID ROGERS

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It is small town Americana at its finest. Drawing well into the thousands of spectators to celebrate Uncle Sam and Independence

Day, Blowing Rock’s 4th of July Parade, to be held at 10 a.m. July 3, is special.

Floats, dignitaries, politicians, clowns, marching bands, cloggers, colorful costumes, old cars, new

cars, fancy cars — you are just liable to see anything and everything in Blowing Rock’s extravaganza of a parade.

Norman Rockwell would be proud.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Mountain Times Publications • Page 27

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

4TH OF JULY PARADE

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Mayor Charlie Sellers and his wife, Deatra, in the 2019 Fourth of July Parade in Blowing Rock.

Even the dogs show their patriotism in Blowing Rock on the Fourth of July, for the parade down Main Street.

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Page 28 • Mountain Times Publications

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

4TH OF JULY PARADE

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

The Blowing Rock Fourth of July Parade pays special tribute to the nation’s military veterans.

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Blowing Rock’s Fourth of July Parade includes clowns, as well as marching bands.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 29

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLOWING ROCK COUNTRY CLUB

Blowing Rock Country Club Golf Course was designed by Seth Raynor.

Blowing Rock Country Club Making community work

BY DAVID ROGERS Tucked away, high in the mountains of western North Carolina is one of the prettiest small towns in America — and a country club to match.

The Blowing Rock Country Club’s golf course is frequently rank in the Top 100 of North Carolina (which has a lot of golf courses, by the way). It is advertised as the only Seth Raynor-designed golf course in North Carolina, and golfers from all over the country have flocked to meet its picturesque challenges since 1915. You haven’t played “mountain golf” until you have played

Blowing Rock Country Club.

But BRCC is even more than golf. With tennis, croquet, a new fitness center, and an outstanding fine dining restaurant and ballroom, the club is also about lifestyle.

It has been a destination venue for weddings and other parties, big and small.

And for the many members with a patriotic spirit, the 4th of July fireworks spectacular is ... spectacular.

Not all, but many of the BRCC members are seasonal residents, residing in the mountains between May and November, seeking respite from the oppressive heat of the lowlands along the coast and Piedmont. But it is also a club that gives back to the local community, too. A scholarship program was set up several years

ago for young staffers who work the summer at BRCC and attend Appalachian State University. The club also hosts the Blowing Rock Community Foundation’s “Community Service Days,” raising money for college scholarships, as well as providing grants to area nonprofit agencies. One of the most successful fundraisers events ever is “Groovy Nights,” a lip-synching extravaganza put on by not just club members, but various high-profile townfolks.

It is crazy fun!

You’ll find BRCC members sitting on various local boards, including Appalachian State University and the Appalachian Regional Hospital System.

All in all, it is a symbiotic relationship between club and town.

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Page 30 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Art in the Park in June 2018. The annual event was created in 1962.

Blowing Rock’s Art in the Park the best local and regional artists and craftspeople showcase their In 2021, Blowing Rock’s Art in handcrafted work. the Park begins its sixth decade Art in the Park’s high standards of providing visual delights of and professional jury attract artiall mediums for High Country sans from all over the Southeast patrons. The juried art show to exhibit in a series of six shows, features more than 80 artists May through October. The quality and artisans, from oil painting, of work exhibited draws thouwatercolors, pottery, jewelry, sands to the area each month. metalsmiths, photography and Art in the Park is planned and more, from sentimental to quirky administered by the Blowing and fun.

Rock Chamber of Commerce. The Art in the Park was created in Chamber takes pride in working 1962 by a handful of area artists to support and showcase top and craftspeople to showcase local talent over a variety of mediums talent. Today, Art in the Park is at each show. The town and area host to dozens of fine art and craft SEE ART ON PAGE 31 vendors at each show. Some of

BY DAVID ROGERS

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Blowing Rock silversmith and woodworking artisan Gaines Kiker, with daughters, Laurel and Riley, in 2018, exhibiting at Art in the Park.

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BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 31

PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRILL

Allan Leon with his second-place ribbon and $100 check at the June 2018 edition of Blowing Rock’s Art in the Park.

ART CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30

businesses are enthusiastic and participate with Art in the Park, and the public

eagerly anticipates each season.

Call (828) 295-7851 or contact art@blowingrock. com for questions or information regarding Art in the Park.

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

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Page 32 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Top town, top honors An award-winning destination

BY DAVID ROGERS

What makes a town “special?” Is it the location, the special events, the people ... maybe all of the above?

Google “Blowing Rock” and you are liable to find an assortment of accolades.

In 2018, Southern Living magazine included it in its, “Best Small Towns in Every State” rankings.

Access to outdoor recreation opportunities, its Norman Rockwell small town Americana feel, a 5-star rating for its “June in Bloom” reputation and colorful flower displays all summer, being a gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest, all of that contributes to Blowing Rock’s award-winning appeal.

The town has been recognized by Tree City USA and received special commendations from the America in Bloom program.

The list of awards goes on and on and on. USA Today named it “one of the 10 best small Southern towns.” A panel of travel journalists calls it, “North Carolina’s Prettiest Small Town,” ahead of other wonderful places like South Port and Southern Pines. Travel+Leisure labels Blowing Rock “One of America’s Prettiest Winter Towns.”

Our State magazine dubbed Blowing Rock a “Favorite Mountain Destination,” while the Winston-Salem Journal hailed Blowing Rock as “Best Day Trip.” It is “Best Mountain Town” according to Blue Ridge Country magazine.

From Best Arts Town, Best of the Mountains, Best Main Street, Best Art Show, Best Shopping — all accolades from published readers polls.

Blowing Rock may be high in the mountains of western North Carolina, but is also high in the minds of people looking for a top destination.

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Bobby and Karen Rice purchased and restored Sunset Manor; they are honored by the Blowing Rock Historical Society and Blowing Rock Art & History Museum for its historical significance during the Town of Blowing Rock’s 132nd birthday party at the Rotary Gazebo in Memorial Park.

PHOTO BY DAVID ROGERS

Molly Northern is offering some ideas for Fourth of July-themed table settings at her new Blowing Rock location for The Bee and the Boxwood on Main Street.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 33

What’s real in Blowing Rock real estate from efficiency condos in the $100,000 range Blowing Rock is known to incredible mountain for some of the finest homes with sweeping homes in the Southeast views in the seven figures. and as being a sought-after Over the past year, home location for second homes. and condo sales prices With Charlotte a two-hour ranged from $95,000 to drive and Raleigh/Durham $4,300,000. three hours away, BlowThe homes seen walking Rock is a convenient ing or driving around escape for buyers from town are just a fraction of North Carolina, as well as what Blowing Rock has a seasonal destination for to offer. Blowing Rock people from Florida, Geor- has a broad geography gia and South Carolina. to explore. There are Many purchase a second many neighborhoods and (or third) home in Blowing pockets of homes both Rock with plans to make it inside the town limits as their retirement home. well as throughout the Blowing Rock offers Blowing Rock zip code a range of properties (28605). to meet most budgets, SEE REAL ESTATE ON PAGE 34 This home on Keowee Camp Lane is typical of those to be found in the Blowing Rock Market.

BY LESLIE EASON

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PHOTO BY LYNNE TOWNSEND

Page 34 • Mountain Times Publications

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

REAL ESTATE

market will flatten and be less intense.

This is good news for buyers who have concerns about a decline in the value of their homes.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

Increased Demand for Mountain Homes The COVID-19 pandemic and other events of the past year drove increased demand for second homes in Blowing Rock and the High Country area overall.

While this trend is being seen throughout the US, the drivers of this market are somewhat different: • More people can work remotely and spend more time in their second homes.

• Desire to vacation away from cities has created a surge in vacation rentals, and buyers want to capitalize on this investment.

• Buyers want to diversify their investments to include Real Estate with less exposure to a volatile stock market.

Inventory The same and similar factors resulted in fewer owners putting their homes on the market. Moreover, sellers during the

Market Data

PHOTO SUBMITTED

1206 Firethorn sports a spacious deck — and even more spacious views.

past year hesitated in listing their homes for sale given COVID-19 concerns. The tighter inventory coupled with higher demand resulted in higher home and lot prices.

Over the past two months, from April into June, we are finally seeing more homes coming on the market as vaccination rates increase and owners decide to

profit from this seller’s market.

Is this a bubble? This market is driven by supply and demand, rather than the loose lending practices and oversupply of the market in 2007. Current trends are expected to continue for the next year.

Housing experts and economists do not predict any crash as was seen in 20072009. Rather, it is expected that the

Sales: For the past year through May, there were 311 homes and condos sold, an increase of 47.4 percent versus the previous year. Of those sales, 82 were condos and 229 were homes. The sales volume of $190.8 million was an increase of 69.7 percent versus the previous year.

Pricing: The median sales price through May of this year is $573,750, a significant, 27.5 percent increase over the same period last year. One of the striking factors of the past year was a 76.2 percent increase in sales of Luxury homes over one million dollars. Thirty-seven homes were sold in this price range, versus 21 such properties the year before.

Year-to-date, the average sales price per square foot is $292. This number varies widely depending on the age, condition, and SEE REAL ESTATE ON PAGE 35

SLOW DOWN A LITTLE. As fast as ever.

1126 Blowing Rock Rd. Boone

195 New Market Center Boone

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Mountain Times Publications • Page 35

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

property search directly from the MLS so that you can be notified as soon as new listings hit the market.

• Ask your Realtor to schedule a virtual showing so that you can decide whether to make a trip to see the home.

REAL ESTATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

location of the home.

For the past year, homes have sold at 98.3 percent of list price, and for May alone that ratio rose to 100 percent, driven by the fact that many homes are selling above asking price.

Time on market: Median days on market has decreased to only 46 days, with an average of 96 days on market. Note that this includes time while under contract. We are seeing very quick sales for popular types of properties, some with multiple offers.

Overview of Blowing Rock Homes Luxury Homes

Tips for Buyers in This Market PHOTO SUBMITTED

For buyers serious about purchasing a home in this market, a local High Country Realtor can help you navigate the process. Here are some suggestions for starting your search: • Be prepared to move quickly for

1321 Goforth Road in Blowing Rock.

popular listings. Some buyers are making offers sight unseen.

• Work with a lender to get pre-approved for a loan before you make your

visit. A pre-approval letter or proof of funds if you are paying cash is required with any offer.

• Have your Realtor set you up on a

Blowing Rock is well known for its gorgeous mountain homes, both newer and historic. Several of these homes have been featured in magazines and on tours. Some have even entertained U.S. presidents, various dignitaries and celebrities. In town, these homes can be found in the historic Mayview and Laurel Park neighborhoods and along Main Street, 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.

SEE REAL ESTATE ON PAGE 36

2022

2021

IN THE PARK

Thursday, January 27th THROUGH

A SERIES OF JURIED ART & CRAFT SHOWS DOWNTOWN BLOWING ROCK

Sunday, January 30th

MAY 22 • JUNE 12 JULY 17 • AUGUST 14 SEPTEMBER 11 OCTOBER 2

Join the Village of Blowing Rock as we celebrate the fun side of winter with the 24th annual Blowing Rock WinterFest!

Many events are kid-friendly – bring the whole family!

10 AM - 5 PM • FREE ADMISSION

A BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENT

www.BlowingRock.com

AT CHETOLA

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 SYMPHONYBYTHELAKE.COM

WinterFeast • Polar Plunge • Evening Ice Stroll Silent Auction & Raffle • Ice Carving • Beer Garden Charity Chili Cook-Off • Cork & Canvas Wine Tasting & Auction • Kids Activities BlowingRockWinterFest.com

FOR INFORMATION, CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PO BOX 406 132 PARK AVENUE, BLOWING ROCK, NC 28605 828/295-7851 www.BlowingRock.com

Page 36 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

REAL ESTATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

Condominiums Condos generally offer a less expensive way to enter the market while relieving the owner of home maintenance worries.

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. The most recent addition to the condo market are the luxury condos called Chestnut at Blowing Rock.

Chetola Resort and Royal Oaks are two locations within the town limits that allow short term vacation rentals, making them an excellent investment as well.

Otherwise, vacation rentals of less than 28 days are only permitted outside town limits, as well as in the downtown area.

PHOTO BY BERNARD RUSSO

The Matrix house in Blowing Rock.

Vacation Rentals A strong segment of the Blowing Rock real estate market includes 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 vacation rental process.

If you are looking to invest in a home that can also be used as a vacation rental, be sure to ask your REALTOR whether vacation rentals are allowed in that location.

Areas of Town In the town of Blowing Rock: The town of Blowing Rock is known for its grand homes along Main Street and in the historic Mayview and Laurel Park neighborhoods. In addition, there are cottages around Ransom Street and Chestnut Drive. There are also condominium developments around the downtown area, such as Royal Oaks, Glen Burney, and Chetola Resort.

In town, Across U.S. 321: Cross U.S. 321 (Valley Boulevard) to Echo Park, Green Hill Road, Wonderland Woods

and areas surrounding the Blowing Rock Country Club and Golf Course. There are a wide variety of home styles and sizes in these quiet neighborhoods.

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

U.S. 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 U.S. 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,

PHOTO BY BERNARD RUSSO

The Matrix house offers a timber frame, luxurious interior that is fitting for the High Country.

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 because many are in the

Blowing Rock School district.

Also in this direction is the Blue Ridge Mountain Club (BRMC), a newer and impressive development with timber SEE REAL ESTATE ON PAGE 37

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 37

Watauga County, North Carolina • Breathtaking mountain scenery and 4 seasons of exciting outdoor recreation opportunities • Appalachian State University, award winning public schools, highly educated work force PHOTO SUBMITTED

1206 Firethorn sports a spacious living room, with an amazing view.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

1206 Firethorn, Blowing Rock, from the outside.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36

amenities.

For the roster of local REALTORS, visit www.highcountryrealtors.org.

frame homes and many lots available.

BRMC offers trails, a gym, restaurant and clubhouse facility, among other

Leslie Eason is a Realtor with Keller Williams High Country Realty, and is owner of the Leslie Eason Real Estate Team.

REAL ESTATE

• Entrepreneurial culture and a tradition of innovation

Page 38 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Thursday, June 24, 2021

American Legion building

BY DAVID ROGERS

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

The American Legion Building hosts the annual Blowing Rock Rotary Club Charity Auction.

Few town facilities get as much use as Blowing Rock’s American Legion building. It was just a few years ago that the old, decaying building was, in the minds of many, an eyesore. American Legion Post 256 turned it over to the town several years ago with the promise of a renovation — and the result was a resounding success. With its building-long back deck overlooking Broyhill Lake accessed by wall to wall, floor to ceiling windows on that side, a completely gutted and remodeled interior, including the kitchen, the American Legion Building now hosts birthday parties, wedding receptions, charity auctions, wine tastings, political candidate forums, and just about every other kind of event you FILE PHOTO can think of — including a Membership Appreciation Night sees plenty of fellowship growing American Legion and shagging at the American Legion in Blowing Rock.

Post’s periodic meetings.

PHOTO BY JIM RUFF

A total of 80 volunteers packed the Blowing Rock American Legion Hall to pack 10,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

Mountain Times Publications • Page 39

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum Experience art, discover history

BY DAVID ROGERS Few towns the size of Blowing Rock have an art and history museum this big — or this impactful. Thanks to the largesse of the many patrons of the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM), Blowing Rock is truly blessed.

Because Elliot Daingerfield called Blowing Rock home, BRAHM has a particular interest and expertise in this famous artist from around the turn of the 20th century.

And yet, the BRAHM exhibits have an abundance of variety, stirring the intellect as well as

the soul and their imagination in every human being lucky enough to go through the doors.

But BRAHM is not just about seeing art, but doing art, as well as emphasizing education. There are workshops for young and old in multiple mediums. There’s Cork & Canvas and Studio Workshops for adults interested in learning about various art styles, or learn from the pros from Southern Highlands Craft Guild. Doodlebug Club, Young at Art, Backpack Art Camp, Afternoon Art Club and Palette Pals are offered

educational opportunities for the kids.

But BRAHM has even more. Learn about certain books of interest to the region and meet the authors. Travel with BRAHM to experience art in different locations, from Charlotte, to Tampa, to Texas.

And be sure not to miss the black tie galas or the Plein Air Festival. BRAHM, you see, is inspiring whether you are an artist or an art lover.

Located: 159 Ginny Stevens Lane, Blowing Rock.

Phone: 828-295-9099.

Website: https://www. blowingrockmuseum.org/.

FILE PHOTO

Elliott Daingerfield was a celebrated artists in Blowing Rock around the turn of the 19th into the 20th century. This statue by Brenda Mauney Councill sits in front of his first studio, the renovated Edgewood Cottage. Appropriately, that is the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum in the background.

VOLUNTEER TODAY

By volunteering with Watauga Habitat for Humanity, you can be a part of the change you want to see in your community.

We offer several opportunities to build homes with families any day of the week.

Together, we can all help build a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

1200 Archie Carrikk Rd | Boone NC, 28607 828.268.9545 | wataugahabitat.org/volunteer

COMPREHENSIVE PROPERTY MANAGMENT Customized maintenance and care of non-rental properties.

Construction/remodel project managment | New home set up | Vendor oversight Regular property inspectors | Concierge services The High Country’s Premier Property and Estate Management Service.

Boone | Blowing Rock | Banner Elk 828.268.8888 www.cssmithpropertymanagment.com

Page 40 • Mountain Times Publications

BLOWING ROCK MY HOMETOWN

TIME FOR A R E F R E S H?

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FAC TO RY D I R E C T

F U RN ITU RE OU TL E T S

Thursday, June 24, 2021

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