By David Rogers. July 22, 2011. BLOWING ROCK -- Preliminary estimates have the silent auction proceeds from Thursday's St. Mary's of the Hills Tour of Homes "Patrons' Party" at about $6,000. The real story may have been the return of the Green Park Inn as a special event venue.

With more than 100 patrons and event volunteers crowding the Laurel Room and Garden Room of the historic Green Park Inn throughout the course of the evening, the 2011 edition of St. Mary's Tour of Homes (the actual tour is on Saturday) got off to a rousing start.

Sparkling diamond rings, a stunning Alex Hallmark statue, elegant fur coats and a large group dinner were just a few of the items auctioned off.  Even though we are in the throes of summer -- and its hottest days at that -- one of the fur coats fetched a winning bid of $1,800.

The Green Park seems to be hitting its stride, delivering great food and beverages under the leadership of executive chef James Welch and general manager Lorry Mulhern.

Reached by Blowing Rock News today for comment, auctioneer Cullie Tarleton noted, "The Tour of Homes event is such a special part of the summer in Blowing Rock, and the proceeds netted by St. Mary's goes to support such great causes, including college scholarships and financial support of local non-profit agencies. It is an event that is enjoyed by our local residents, of course, but it also draws visitors from towns and cities very far removed from the High Country, so it is a big plus for our tourism industry.

"But the other great part of the Patron Party last night," said Tarleton, "is that the Green Park Inn has been restored as a venue capability of hosting this kind of event.  It harkens back to the hotel's glory years, and it is great to see."

The Tour of Homes is Saturday, July 23, beginning at 9:00 am, until 5:00 pm. Shuttle service is available beginning at 8:30 am from the Hayes Performing Arts Center, where parking is available.  Additional information may be obtained by calling 828-295-7323.

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