By David Rogers. BLOWING ROCK, N.C. — Celebrating excellence was the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce’s theme for its 2024 Annual Awards Luncheon, and that was certainly the case.
While every award winner was deserving, a highlight of the event was the surprise recognition of Blowing Rock Chamber CEO Charles Hardin, who is retiring at the end of the year. How Chetola Mountain Resort owner Warren Cathcart was able to sneak into the Meadowbrook Inn venue with a black cloth-covered, Bob Timberlake painting to give to Hardin without the retiring executive knowing something was up is a mystery.
But surprise Hardin it did — and it was well-deserved recognition for the man who led the Blowing Rock Chamber for more than two decades, since 2004.
After Hardin recognized outgoing Chamber president Billy Chick and outgoing board members Melissa Pickett, Ronnie Mark and Chelsea Garrett, the program got down to the award business.
Business of the Year: Town Tavern. Few businesses in the region have had to deal with as much adversity as Justin Davis’ The Town Tavern, which grew in a relatively short time from its one location in Blowing Rock to sister locations in Banner Elk and Morganton, both of which suffered major damage from Hurricane Helene. While the Morganton restaurant remains closed, the Banner Elk operation is back up and running. Another sister location, the River Street Ale House, is in Boone. Davis also has an ownership interest in Social on Main, in Blowing Rock.
New Commercial Construction Award: The Embers Hotel. The Embers Hotel and owner Steve Barker set an elevated standard for lodging destinations in the the region.
Outstanding Non-Profit Award: Blowing Rock Community Foundation. Led by Sandy Miller and formed in 1985, the Foundation continues to award award college scholarships and grants, annually, thanks to fundraisers like “Groovy Nights” and “Community Service Days,” golf and tennis tournaments hosted by Blowing Rock Country Club.
The Community Service Award: The Brinker Family for the work done by their Build for Good Foundation. Of note, the Brinkers and their foundation provided “boots on the ground” and critically needed labor, equipment and organizational resources for High Country communities after Hurricane Helene.
Jerry Burns Ambassadorial Award: Tom O’Brien. Blowing Rock Historical Society president, Tom O’Brien, was recognized for his leadership in always trying to help Blowing Rock put its best foot forward.
Volunteer of the Year – Al & Velda Shackleford
Young Professional of the Year – Ian Stewart.
Outstanding Customer Service – J. McLaughlin
