By David Rogers. BLOWING ROCK, N.C. — As celebrations go, the May 30 ribbon-cutting for The Embers Hotel turned out to be quite a party, with numerous area civic dignitaries and business leaders in attendance. Organized by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, the 100-plus participants and onlookers nodded in agreement as Chamber CEO Charles Hardin read a resolution acknowledging the economic and cultural impact that the new hotel is already having on Blowing Rock.
Economically, the venture is bringing jobs, as well as providing the local governments with revenue by paying occupancy taxes, sales taxes and water consumption fees. Culturally, the high-end lodging, eatery and drinkery is bringing another source of regional entertainment while providing self-contained parking for its guests.