The Asheville Chamber works hard to provide its members with opportunities to hear from, speak to, and network with elected officials.
Congressman Heath Shuler spent the morning of Monday, July 26, 2010 with 50 business leaders at the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber hosted Congressman Shuler for a public policy forum allowing him to give his outlook on the political climate in Washington as well as hear concerns and ideas from the audience.
Congressmen Shuler is a member of the Blue Dog Coalition, which is a group of conservative leaning Democrats. Shuler spoke of the group’s 15 step plan to balance the Federal budget, cut government spending and secure America’s future. To see the group’s plan click here.
Throughout the meeting, Congressman Shuler emphasized the idea that Washington politics are broken and operating with a system where the Federal Government is spending more money than they are bringing in. Congressman Shuler told the audience that debt and deficit spending were the key reason for this recession.
Congressman Shuler also used the time to hear ideas and concerns from his constituents. He expressed the importance of citizens contacting their representatives the minute they identify a potential problem. The Congressman made this statement as he referenced the United State’s mortgage crisis. Several audience members made policy suggestions, such as, Federal legislation to prohibit states from being able to offer outlandish incentives for economic development.
If you wish to contact Congressman Shuler you can do so through his website at
http://shuler.house.gov/.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Friday, July 16, 2010
Hands-On, Custom Art Studio Sessions
Hosting a visitor that wants a unique Asheville experience? Or, have you and your friends and family ever wanted to work one-on-one in a River Arts District studio with a professional visual artist? Here’s your chance.
Roots + Wings School of Art (RWSA) supports studio sessions with their rostered visual artists in their new River Arts District studio on Depot Street at Pink Dog Creative . Unlike group art classes, with Custom Art Studio Sessions (CASS), participants work collaboratively with a RWSA visual artist exploring tools and techniques, making color and material choices, and sharing in the process of art-making together. CASS are open to any age, families and groups of friends are welcome, and individualized sessions are also common.
For More Information or to Book Your Custom Art Studio Session:
http://rootsandwingsarts.com/family/custom-art-studio-sessions or call 828.545.4827
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Chamber Hosts CAYLA Intern Keevon Baten
The first week of my internship has been a great experience. On my first day, at the chamber I was greeted by Clark Duncan, the Director of Business and Industry Services at the Chamber. Mr. Duncan has served as my supervisor and friend while at the Chamber. My first couple of days were spent with the Economic Development department of the Chamber. On Monday I was introduced to the staff at the Chamber and given a tour. I also had lunch with Benjamin Teague, Senior Vice President for Economic Development, and Rick Lutovsky, the President of the Chamber. I enjoyed having lunch with them and learned a lot of valuable life lessons from them. On Tuesday I meet with County Commission Ray Bailey. Mr. Bailey is a great man and I benefitted a lot from our talk on leadership. On Wednesday morning I sat in on a meeting between Ray Denny, Vice President of Economic Development, and representatives from Ward and Smith, P.A. Later that evening I went on a tour of the AvL Technologies and learned more about engineering, which is a possible major in college I’m considering. On Thursday I spent the day with Membership Services and Communications Department of the Chamber and I helped to setup and run the monthly Business-After hours, which were held on Antler Hill Village in the Biltmore Estate.
I’ve really enjoyed my experience at the chamber thus far. The people here are very friendly and make me feel at home. In my past three years of doing CAYLA internships, this has been the most enjoyable and fulfilling internship for me. In my short experience at the chamber the one lesson I feel like I’ve learned is the importance of making lasting good relationships.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Paris of the South? Show opens at BlackBird Frame & Art
Asheville Dream Series by Lisa Ringelspaugh-Irvine
Opening Reception on Friday, July 9th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm at BlackBird Frame & Art
Show dates: July 8th –July 24th
If you have lived in Asheville for any length of time you have most likely heard Asheville compared to Paris. Who knows? Maybe there is something to it... after all, Asheville is a very romantic place, and there is no lack of culture, diversity and nightlife. Our city has played muse to many notable artists, crafters, poets, and writers. Recently, we even had our own art heist just like the famous museums of Paris.
Lisa Ringelspaugh is a longtime resident and professional painter known for her lively watercolor interpretations of local landmarks. Inspired by turn-of-the-century Paris, Lisa asked herself, “If those artists visited Asheville, then what would happen?” Her new “Dream Series” answers with a touch of whimsy, a healthy dose of imagination and plenty of artistic license. Through Lisa’s brush, Matisse, Gauguin, Chagall and Dali have finally come to visit our fair city and have reinterpreted their favorite works in a new southern Appalachian light.
“Paris of the South?” is a fun, artistic romp through the city of Asheville, from Kim’s Wig Shop to the S&W Cafeteria, and certain to bring a smile to your face. Join Lisa on Friday evening for a special night of wine, refreshments, and stimulating conversation.
BlackBird’s gallery located at 365 Merrimon Avenue features the work of 25 local painters and artisans in diverse media and styles. Gallery manager Phil DeAngelo says, “Lisa is a serious painter, and in this case, she’s also shown us how seriously funny she can be.”
Opening Reception on Friday, July 9th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm at BlackBird Frame & Art
Show dates: July 8th –July 24th
If you have lived in Asheville for any length of time you have most likely heard Asheville compared to Paris. Who knows? Maybe there is something to it... after all, Asheville is a very romantic place, and there is no lack of culture, diversity and nightlife. Our city has played muse to many notable artists, crafters, poets, and writers. Recently, we even had our own art heist just like the famous museums of Paris.
Lisa Ringelspaugh is a longtime resident and professional painter known for her lively watercolor interpretations of local landmarks. Inspired by turn-of-the-century Paris, Lisa asked herself, “If those artists visited Asheville, then what would happen?” Her new “Dream Series” answers with a touch of whimsy, a healthy dose of imagination and plenty of artistic license. Through Lisa’s brush, Matisse, Gauguin, Chagall and Dali have finally come to visit our fair city and have reinterpreted their favorite works in a new southern Appalachian light.
“Paris of the South?” is a fun, artistic romp through the city of Asheville, from Kim’s Wig Shop to the S&W Cafeteria, and certain to bring a smile to your face. Join Lisa on Friday evening for a special night of wine, refreshments, and stimulating conversation.
BlackBird’s gallery located at 365 Merrimon Avenue features the work of 25 local painters and artisans in diverse media and styles. Gallery manager Phil DeAngelo says, “Lisa is a serious painter, and in this case, she’s also shown us how seriously funny she can be.”
Friday, June 25, 2010
Asheville Extends Help to the Gulf
The Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau is reaching out to the Gulf Coast in an effort to provide some support in the wake of the Gulf oil spill.
A recent Washington Post article noted how challenging fundraising has been in the wake of the Gulf oil spill. According to the article, the Chronicle of Philanthropy reported that $4 million has been raised so far to assist with efforts in the Gulf compared to more than $6 billion that went to the region in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
As a strong outdoor and conservation-minded community, Asheville’s tourism community is deeply concerned about fellow tourism destinations along the Gulf Coast. Many of the partners here have direct relationships with fellow tourism destinations in the Gulf region and want to help.
How Can You Help?
Thanks to the generosity of private tourism partners, every visit to AshevilleTourismCares.com will earn a pledge of 10 cents per visit–up to $10,000–between now and July 2. Funds will be given to the National Audubon Society to assist in the short-term and long-term challenges of restoring the Gulf Coast ecosystem.
A recent Washington Post article noted how challenging fundraising has been in the wake of the Gulf oil spill. According to the article, the Chronicle of Philanthropy reported that $4 million has been raised so far to assist with efforts in the Gulf compared to more than $6 billion that went to the region in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
As a strong outdoor and conservation-minded community, Asheville’s tourism community is deeply concerned about fellow tourism destinations along the Gulf Coast. Many of the partners here have direct relationships with fellow tourism destinations in the Gulf region and want to help.
How Can You Help?
Thanks to the generosity of private tourism partners, every visit to AshevilleTourismCares.com will earn a pledge of 10 cents per visit–up to $10,000–between now and July 2. Funds will be given to the National Audubon Society to assist in the short-term and long-term challenges of restoring the Gulf Coast ecosystem.
Thomas Grella from McGuire, Wood & Bissette Selected as a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation
The Asheville law firm of McGuire, Wood & Bissette, P.A. is pleased to announce that the American Bar Foundation has selected Thomas Grella as a Fellow of the Foundation. Selection as a Fellow is recognition of a lawyer as one whose professional, public and private career has demonstrated outstanding dedication to the welfare of the community, the traditions of the profession and the maintenance and advancement of the objectives of the American Bar Association. The American Bar Foundation is an honorary organization of lawyers, judges and legal scholars nominated as Fellows by their peers. The Fellows support the research of the American Bar Foundation through their annual contributions, and sponsor seminars and events of direct relevance to leaders of the legal profession.
A business attorney whose law practice focus is on commercial transactions, Grella publishes a blog on legal issues facing North Carolina businesses at ncbusinesslawblog.net . An attorney with McGuire, Wood & Bissette since 1988, and a partner since 1993, Grella is chair of the firm's Management Committee and is a past Chair of the ABA Law Practice Management Section and is presently serving on its Executive Committee. He is serving a three-year term in the American Bar Association House of Delegates and is a fellow of the College of Law Practice Management, the National Institute for Teaching Ethics and Professionalism, and the ABA Young Lawyers Division.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Chamber Honors Volunteers, Community and Business Leaders
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated 113 years of serving the business community at its Annual Meeting presented by Carolina First Bank on Monday, June 21, at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa. Awards presented included two HomeTrust Bank Small Business Leader of the Year Awards (one for 15 or less employees and one for 16 or more employees), the Webb Investment Services ATHENA Award, Asheville Savings Bank Excellence in Public Service Award, Mission Hospitals Good Health – Good Business Award, the William A.V. Cecil Leadership Award, and the Four Season’s Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award.
Small Business Leader of the Year Awards are presented each year to two individuals who reflect quality and dedication in their business operations and who are accomplished leaders in innovation, initiative, and civic responsiveness. Bob Kendrick, owner of Kendrick & Associates, received the award for Small Business Leader of the Year in the category, “15 or Fewer Employees.” Michael Shore, partner of FLS Energy, was recognized as the Small Business Leader of the Year in the category, “16 or More Employees.” HomeTrust Bank sponsored the Small Business Leader of the Year Awards and Dana Stonestreet, President, made the presentations.
The ATHENA Award is presented annually to a woman or man who has attained the highest level of professional excellence in business, and who has served as an advocate for women in business. Celeste Collins, Executive Director of OnTrack Financial Services, was the recipient of this year’s honor. Webb Investment Services sponsored the ATHENA Award and President Laura Webb made the presentation.
The William A.V. Cecil Leadership Award recognizes a leader of the tourism industry in the Asheville area. Mark Rosenstein was recognized this year. Rosenstein is the former owner of the Marketplace Restaurant and served on the Tourism Development Authority board for eight years. The award was presented by Michel Baudouin, owner of Bouchon French Bistro and the Chamber’s Vice-Chair for the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The Asheville Savings Bank Excellence in Public Service Award was presented to Pat Smith, retired Executive Director of The Community Foundation. The Excellence in Public Service award recognizes an individual that demonstrates lifelong service and exceptional leadership skills which have positively impacted the Asheville area. Suzanne DeFerie, President and CEO of Asheville Savings Bank, presented the award.
The Mission Hospitals Good Health-Good Business Award recognizes an outstanding senior management level individual in the Asheville business community that demonstrates service and exceptional leadership resulting in improved health of the Asheville community. The award was presented to Wilma Sherrill, former state representative, for her efforts in Raleigh to raise the money for the North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness at UNC – Asheville. Janice Brumit, Vice Chair of the Mission Hospital board, presented the award.
The final award of the evening was the Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year Award presented by Four Seasons to Pat Fugate Hock, of Progress Energy. Hock served as a co-chair of the Chamber’s Total Resource Campaign this year which successfully raised over $425,000 to support Chamber programs. Hock has been a member of the Total Resource Campaign cabinet for eight years and has been one of the top fund raisers every year. The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented by the President & CEO of Four Seasons, Chris Comeaux.
Also during the evening’s program the Chamber recognized the contributions and leadership of Chamber President & CEO, Richard Lutovsky. Earlier this year Lutovsky announced his retirement plans for September of 2010 when he will complete ten years as the Chamber President. Lutovsky’s decade of service was recognized by many community leaders including City of Asheville Mayor Terry Bellamy and Buncombe County Commission Chair David Gantt. Lutovsky was joined at the dinner by his wife, Janna; mother in law, Mrs. Janet McCoy; daughter, Mrs. Kelly McCracken, and granddaughter, Maya.
Each award recipient was showcased by video, click here to watch the videos now. The videos were produced by Time Capsule Video.
Small Business Leader of the Year Awards are presented each year to two individuals who reflect quality and dedication in their business operations and who are accomplished leaders in innovation, initiative, and civic responsiveness. Bob Kendrick, owner of Kendrick & Associates, received the award for Small Business Leader of the Year in the category, “15 or Fewer Employees.” Michael Shore, partner of FLS Energy, was recognized as the Small Business Leader of the Year in the category, “16 or More Employees.” HomeTrust Bank sponsored the Small Business Leader of the Year Awards and Dana Stonestreet, President, made the presentations.
The ATHENA Award is presented annually to a woman or man who has attained the highest level of professional excellence in business, and who has served as an advocate for women in business. Celeste Collins, Executive Director of OnTrack Financial Services, was the recipient of this year’s honor. Webb Investment Services sponsored the ATHENA Award and President Laura Webb made the presentation.
The William A.V. Cecil Leadership Award recognizes a leader of the tourism industry in the Asheville area. Mark Rosenstein was recognized this year. Rosenstein is the former owner of the Marketplace Restaurant and served on the Tourism Development Authority board for eight years. The award was presented by Michel Baudouin, owner of Bouchon French Bistro and the Chamber’s Vice-Chair for the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The Asheville Savings Bank Excellence in Public Service Award was presented to Pat Smith, retired Executive Director of The Community Foundation. The Excellence in Public Service award recognizes an individual that demonstrates lifelong service and exceptional leadership skills which have positively impacted the Asheville area. Suzanne DeFerie, President and CEO of Asheville Savings Bank, presented the award.
The Mission Hospitals Good Health-Good Business Award recognizes an outstanding senior management level individual in the Asheville business community that demonstrates service and exceptional leadership resulting in improved health of the Asheville community. The award was presented to Wilma Sherrill, former state representative, for her efforts in Raleigh to raise the money for the North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness at UNC – Asheville. Janice Brumit, Vice Chair of the Mission Hospital board, presented the award.
The final award of the evening was the Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year Award presented by Four Seasons to Pat Fugate Hock, of Progress Energy. Hock served as a co-chair of the Chamber’s Total Resource Campaign this year which successfully raised over $425,000 to support Chamber programs. Hock has been a member of the Total Resource Campaign cabinet for eight years and has been one of the top fund raisers every year. The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented by the President & CEO of Four Seasons, Chris Comeaux.
Also during the evening’s program the Chamber recognized the contributions and leadership of Chamber President & CEO, Richard Lutovsky. Earlier this year Lutovsky announced his retirement plans for September of 2010 when he will complete ten years as the Chamber President. Lutovsky’s decade of service was recognized by many community leaders including City of Asheville Mayor Terry Bellamy and Buncombe County Commission Chair David Gantt. Lutovsky was joined at the dinner by his wife, Janna; mother in law, Mrs. Janet McCoy; daughter, Mrs. Kelly McCracken, and granddaughter, Maya.
Each award recipient was showcased by video, click here to watch the videos now. The videos were produced by Time Capsule Video.
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