Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country | Founded 05-05-05

High Country Home Builders Association Supports The Next Generation

Awards Scholarships to Two Local High School Seniors

At their May general membership meeting, the High Country Home Builders Association (HCHBA) paid tribute to the next generation of builders. Two local high school seniors were each awarded a $1,000 scholarship.

With plans to pursue careers in the construction industry, Avery High School senior Ben Gragg and Watauga High School senior Garrett Norris received the awards on May 19 at the home of HCHBA, Builders Plaza in Boone. HCHBA Immediate Past President Kevin Donovan presented the scholarships to the students on behalf of the HCHBA Scholarship Committee.

Ben Gragg, 19, is the son of Doug Gragg of Carey’s Flat, N.C., and Brenda Caldwell of Hampton, Tenn. Having developed an interest in woodworking during middle school, Gragg’s love for building continued through high school with the encouragement of teacher Mark Parlier. He will continue his education at ASU, beginning with the 2008 summer session.

Garrett Norris, 18, is the son of Van and Sherrie Norris of Boone. Norris became interested in design and construction through part-time employment with his father’s plumbing business, coupled with his passion for art and creativity. He will attend Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute in the fall 2008, with plans to continue his education at ASU.

Awarding academic achievement scholarships each year to deserving students seeking higher education in the construction field is just one of many ways the association gives back to the community. HCHBA produces annual fundraising events—Home Show, Golf Tournament, and Parade of Homes—to help support the scholarship program and to make a donation to Habitat for Humanity.

In addition to student scholarships, HCHBA presented $1,500 at the May meeting to two schools to help enhance the quality of classroom instruction. David Scott, Home Show Committee Chair, announced, “With proceeds from this year’s Home Show, we will donate additional funds to Watauga and Avery County
construction-related programs.” Nick Daniels, construction trades teacher at Avery County High, received $500 and Ronnie Storie, Watauga High construction trades teacher, received $1,000. The donation amount was based on the percentage of HCHBA membership from each county. “One-third of our members are from Avery County and two-thirds are from Watauga County,” stated Jeannie Keasey, HCHBA secretary.

The High Country Home Builders Association is the voice of the home building industry in Watauga and Avery counties and is known for “Helping Build a Better High Country.” The organization’s mission is to educate its members and the public, to promote professionalism and ethical behavior within the building industry, and to provide a large variety of member services. As a local chapter with 300+ members, HCHBA functions as an extension of both the North Carolina Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders. All three entities work together to provide the most up-to-date information on legislation, education, training, and new product orientation.
For more information about HCHBA, contact Susan Miller at 828-297-6566 or susan.hchba@charterinte3rnet.com.