January 22, 2026
Greetings from BRCA! Happy Thursday afternoon after an eventful trip to the grocery. There is a lot of news about the storm, schedule changes and updates today. As we wrap up preparations for the coming winter storm there are many questions about what this will look like, We have seen predictions from a serious ice storm, the worst winter storm in decades to 27 inches of snow. We shall wait and see, but let’s all be prepared.
From BR Chamber
| NORTH CAROLINA UNDER A STATE OF EMERGENCY North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has declared a ‘State of Emergency’ ahead of the winter storm expected to hit the state over the weekend. To stay prepared for winter weather, North Carolina Emergency Management officials recommend these tips: Always keep at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a supply of medication in your home. Keep cellphones and mobile devices charged in case of power outages. Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights. Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing. Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather. Look out for your friends, neighbors, and the elderly during winter weather. REMINDER: WinterFest has postponed Saturday events to Saturday, January 31. Full schedule updates will be posted to BlowingRockWinterFest.com. Stay safe! |
WinterFest Events Postponed
IMPORTANT WINTERFEST UPDATE:
Out of an abundance of caution, WinterFest has postponed Saturday events to Saturday, January 31. Full schedule updates will be posted to BlowingRockWinterFest.com.
Hendrick Car Hunt (Jan 30) – Find one or all four Hendrick Luxury vehicles around Blowing Rock, scan the QR code on the vehicle to be directed to the entry form, and follow the instructions.
Artisan Ice Stroll (Jan 30) – Downtown Blowing Rock comes alive with intricate, hand-carved ice sculptures. Display length is weather dependent.
Free Shuttle (Jan 31) – The shuttle runs between Shoppes on the Parkway, Meadowbrook Inn and Memorial Park, 10 AM–5 PM.
Polar Bear Plunge (Jan 31) – Brave the icy waters of Chetola Lake—or cheer on the courageous plungers. Chetola Resort, 9 AM registration, 10 AM plunge.
Rotary Chilly Chili Challenge (Jan 31) – Relocated to Meadowbrook Inn Sample chili crafted by local restaurants and vote for your favorite. 11 AM to 2 PM, or until chili runs out.
Free Hot Chocolate & Hayrides (Jan 31) – Sip cocoa and enjoy a scenic hayride through Blowing Rock. 132 Park Ave, 12 – 3 PM.
Beer Garden (Jan 31) – Sample NC craft brews, wines, and ciders at The Speckled Trout, 12 – 4 PM.
Ticket holders and volunteers will be notified directly. The full alternate schedule will be posted to BlowingRockWinterFest.com.
Town Council Winter Retreat Postponed
DUE TO WINTER WEATHER THIS WEEKEND, THE TOWN COUNCIL WINTER RETREAT HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL FEBRUARY 2ND AND 3RD AT THE BLOWING ROCK CONFERENCE CENTER
Blowing Rock Focus for 2026
Watauga Democrat reporter Nick Fogleman posted an article January 7th mentioning the proposed projects for town officials in 2026. They include completing new crosswalks, a partnership with Watauga County after their purchase of Watauga Medics for improved ambulance service, consideration of some historic district designations, Parking, Water & Sewer continued improvements, a new town website, an effort to unify residents and protecting the town’s “uniqueness and charm.” More details will come from the Winter Retreat.
Upcoming Primary Election Information
Voter Locations:
1081 Old US HWY 421, Sugar Grove
6) Western Watauga Community Center
263 Locust St (Parking lot on Howard St)
– App State5) Plemmons Student Union
4797 NC HWY 194
4) Meat Camp Fire Department
6583 Old US 421 S
3) Deep Gap Fire Department
333 Wallingford Street
2) Blowing Rock American Legion Building
814 W. King Street
1) Watauga County Administration Building
SITES (ALL HAVE THE SAME SCHEDULE)
February 28 8am – 3pm
February 23 – 27 8am – 7:30pm
February 16 – 20 8am – 7:30pm
February 12 – 13 8am – 7:30pm
Watauga County voters may use any Early Voting site
2026 Primary Early Voting Schedule
I took a look at a sample ballot, WOW lots of folks running in the primaries. This schedule and link from Watauga Board of Elections.
This takes a few steps.
- “Click here”
- Compete your name and DOB
- “Click” Search and your name will come up
- Click on your name to see your voting jurisdiction, voting location and your Sample Ballot and enter your information. Then scroll down to Your Sample Ballot and click on the link.
Board Appointments Deadline Reminder
http://APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO A BOARD, COMMISSION, TASK FORCE,Council will be doing the voluntary board appointments in February. If you are interested in applying for a local volunteer board, applications are due at Town Hall by Friday January 23, 2026. You will find the application here:
Free Radon Kits Reminder
BRCA had about a dozen radon test kits left over from our Radon Town Hall last September. There are a few at the library (operating on Winter hours) and a few at the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce (9-5, M-S). Thank you to Chamber staff for co-marketing this service with BRCA. Free while supplies last.
Thank You!
On behalf of all of us at BRCA we sincerely appreciate your financial support and your ongoing engagement. Thank you for following us. We also want to welcome our new members and viewers; we welcome you to BRCA. Have a great weekend. If you are not a member of BRCA please consider joining for a little as $100 annually. Happy 2026!
Tom Barrett
Executive Committee Member & VP