Calendar of Events
Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.
Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.
Public health has realized for some time that many people are experiencing some level of pandemic fatigue or COVID-19 fatigue as described by the American Medical Association. We’re all weary of the restrictions and guidance about wearing masks and physical distancing. No one imagined that 21 months after the beginning of the pandemic that we’d be facing our most severe phase with the current Omicron variant.Despite the challenges we face today, we will prevail through this current surge and hope to see a significant decline with cases in the next 3 or 4 weeks if current projections hold true. Here are the essential pieces of information you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones in the weeks ahead.The risk of contracting COVID-19 today is higher than it has ever been before.The Omicron variant has proven to be incredibly contagious, and it is usually quantified as being 3 to 4 times more infectious than the Delta variant. We have surpassed our prior peak with the Delta variant and this current surge may eventually triple or quadruple the volume of cases that we’re experiencing now. Look at our daily new cases rate per 100,000 (7 day rolling average) to gauge the volume and rapid expansion of cases. (See table in photos.)In the United States today, there are states with daily new case rates approaching 400, Rhode Island is at 504. In North Carolina today, there are counties with daily new case rates that are now approaching 400. It is reasonable to assume that local case increases will follow this same pattern.Do I need to do something different to protect myself and others during this surge?The short answer is yes. We all need to change and adapt our strategies for the Omicron variant. Here are several key steps you can take to better protect yourself and others:If you are vaccinated and eligible for a booster, please consider getting that booster as soon as possible. The original vaccination series (2 doses of Moderna or Pfizer or 1 dose of J & J vaccine) is not as effective against the Omicron variant as the Delta variant. A booster significantly increases your level of vaccine protection.More breakthrough cases are happening with the Omicron variant, but vaccinations are still highly effective at reducing hospitalizations and deaths. Being up to date with a booster also prevents you from being placed in quarantine should you be exposed to a positive case.If you are unvaccinated, please consider consulting with your physician about your risk factors and the benefits of vaccination. It might not prevent you from getting infected with COVID-19 but will lessen your chances of severe health outcomes.Our 2 local hospitals report that 90% of hospitalized patients are unvaccinated. Vaccinations are still the most effective way to protect yourself. Get the facts from your usual trusted medical professional.Also consider a different approach with face coverings whether you are vaccinated or not. These remain a primary recommendation to provide another layer of protection, particularly for indoor public settings. The Omicron variant spreads more easily, and we have multiple documented cases where people aren’t even aware of how they became exposed. Even very minor time-limited exposures can result in a positive case.Ideally, upgrade your mask type from a cloth face covering to a surgical mask or KN95 mask. These latter 2 options provide more protection for you when around others. Public health does not recommend an N95 mask for the general public. These are still only necessary for those in healthcare or extreme exposure environments.If you are symptomatic stay home, self-isolate and seek testing. Testing availability and supply are limited at this time. If you have symptoms and are unable to get tested assume you are positive for COVID-19 or the flu and self-isolate. Obtain a test as soon as you are able. Close contact should wear masks in all interactions. If close contacts become symptomatic, they too should immediately isolate and obtain a test, if possible.These simple strategies can help us achieve the objectives we originally established with many public health partners as part of our pandemic response plan. Reduce the transmission of disease, protect the most vulnerable and prevent our hospitals from becoming overwhelmed.We will be challenged on all fronts in the coming days. We ask for your help to achieve the best possible outcomes during this difficult phase. Thank you for everything you are already doing to keep yourself and others safe. It matters.Better days are ahead.Steve SmithHealth Director, Henderson County Department of Public Health
Graph: courtesy of Henderson County Department of Public Health

Management, HR Recruitment, Marketing and Social Media
Companies face a landscape disrupted by a pandemic: HR staffing issues, supply chain shortages, shift in consumer purchasing patterns, new business models, revenue disruptions and new applications of tech to name a few. Is your business prepared to successfully move into 2022?
Are you profitable in 2021 or realized your organization, sales and profit goals? If not, this seminar is for you.
Learn what experts with Forbes, Inc, Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur, Social Media Today, Hubspot, Forrester, Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), etc. are sharing how to prepare for 2022.
Now is the time to get ready. By getting ready now, you will create a “new competitive advantage” for your business to start the year. Being proactive is a better business management strategy than one of reacting.
Instructor: Gary C. Heisey Gary is the Executive Director of the Mission Accelerator Program, Incoming Director VISION Henderson County, Serial Entrepreneur, and award winning former Director of the Small Business Center at BRCC.
Gary has been recognized by:
– Small Business Administration
– National Association of Entrepreneurship
– 2016 North Carolina Community College Staff Person of the Year Award
– 2014 Dr. Molly A. Parkhill Blue Ridge Community Staff Person of the Year
– Mountain Bizworks (Former Board Chair and Board Member 2014-2020)
– SCORE (Service of Retired Executives)
Complete this three-day certificate program or register for one or more workshops to improve your effectiveness as a professional woman in a current or future management or leadership role!
Cost: $159 per workshop or $425 for the full certificate
Workshop Schedule:
Powerful Communication Strategies for Women
Friday, October 8, 2021
9 am – 3:30 pm
WCU Biltmore Park, Asheville
6.5 SHRM PDCsMany women have built successful careers, but too few women have reached the highest levels in corporations, government, education and non-profit organizations. In ways that men do not, women must navigate a variety of obstacles, including cultural expectations and stereotypical views. In this day-long workshop designed especially for women, you’ll learn more about the status of women across disciplines, increase your understanding of key gender differences in communication, and build skills in nonverbal communication, listening and conflict management.
Powerful Presentation Skills for Women
Friday, November 19, 2021
9 am – 3:30 pm
WCU at Biltmore Park, Asheville
6.5 SHRM PDCsThe ability to present yourself and your ideas with confidence is essential for professional success and career advancement. In this day-long workshop designed especially for women, you’ll learn how to make a positive first impression, meet and greet with ease, and polish and practice your elevator pitch. You’ll build confidence and skills that will enable you to be heard in meetings, deliver presentations with poise and presence, and strengthen storytelling skills.
Self-Leadership Strategies for Women
Friday, January 21, 2022
9 am – 3:30 pm
WCU at Biltmore Park, Asheville
6.5 SHRM PDCsManagement expert Peter Drucker once said: “Being a self-leader is to serve as chief, captain, president, or CEO of one’s on life.” Self-leadership is your ability to set goals and to intentionally work to achieve those goals. This requires self-awareness, self-management, a growth mindset, and essential planning and organizing skills. In this day-long workshop designed especially for women, you’ll learn how to address feelings and negative self-talk associated with “the imposter syndrome,” grow and show confidence in your talents and abilities, and adopt proven time management skills to attain a healthy work-life balance.
Instructor: DR. BETTY FARMER
Dr. Betty Farmer is an award-winning professor of communication at Western Carolina University and sought-after communication consultant and trainer. Her specialty areas include leadership and managerial communication, emotional intelligence, gender communication, crisis communication and communication skills training.
The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Pardee UNC Health Care, Optimum/Morris Broadband, and Judy Stroud/State Farm Insurance are pleased to announce the 15th Annual ATHENA Leadership Award in Henderson County in memory of Vanessa Y. Mintz. Nominations are now being accepted for the ATHENA Leadership Award, which will be presented at the Professional Women’s Luncheon in May to an exemplary leader who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, served the community in a meaningful way, and, most importantly, actively assisted women to achieve their full leadership potential.
Founded over 30 years ago, ATHENA International is a women’s leadership organization that supports, develops and honors women leaders through the programs it administers. ATHENA’s flagship program, the ATHENA Leadership Award Program, has honored over 6000 women leaders from hundreds of cities and eight countries since its inception in 1982.
Vanessa Y. Mintz brought the ATHENA award to Henderson County in 2008 and she embodied the values underlying ATHENA 
International’s philosophy of incorporating the talent and expertise of women into the leadership of our businesses, our communities, and our government. Reflective of a quote attributed to Plato, “What is honored in a country will be cultivated there”, the ATHENA Leadership Award honors and illuminates the leaders and leadership styles of individuals others would emulate.
The program is facilitated locally by the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, a licensed ATHENA host organization. Nominations are sought throughout the community. Recipients are selected by a diverse group of out-of-town professional judges, based on Athena leadership criteria.
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients hail from all professional sectors. The award’s rich history, international scope, and emphasis on mentorship make this award unique and amongst the most prestigious leadership awards one can receive. Past Henderson County ATHENA Recipients Include:
Kathy Streeter Morgan (2021)
Barbara Volk, City of Hendersonville (2020)
Barb Morgan, Project Dignity of WNC (2019)
Lee Henderson Hill, Community Foundation of Henderson County (2018)
Roxanna Pepper, Children & Family Resource Center (2017)
Judy Stroud, State Farm Insurance (2016)
Judith Long, Free Clinics (2015)
Caroline Long, St. Gerard House (2014)
Annie Fritschner, First United Methodist Church (2013)
Myra Grant, Pardee Hospital Foundation (2012)
Joyce Mason, Four Seasons Compassion for Life (2011)
Pat Shepherd, Pat’s School of Dance (2010)
Ragan Ward, Carolina Alliance Bank (2009)
Robin Reed, Bares It All (2008)
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients are presented a hand-cast, bronzed and crystal sculpture that symbolizes the strength, courage, and wisdom of ATHENA Recipients.
Old Kentucky Home -The Thomas Wolfe Memorial
American Novelist Thomas Wolfe (1900-1938)
Considered by many to be one of the giants of 20th-century American literature, Thomas Wolfe immortalized his childhood home in his epic autobiographical novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Wolfe’s colorful portrayal of his family, his hometown of “Altamont” Asheville, North Carolina, and “Dixieland” the Old Kentucky Home boardinghouse, earned the Victorian period house a place as one of American literature’s most famous landmarks.
House tours are offered daily at half past each hour. Last tour leaves at 4:30 pm.
Group tours by reservation.
Adult – $5.00
Student (ages 7-17) – $2.00
Adult Group (10+) – $2.50 each
Student Group – $2.00 each
6 & under – Free
Hours of Operation
| Get in the Local Food Guide! |
Every year, ASAP calls more than 1,400 businesses to update our Local Food Guide and CSA guide so that we get the most accurate information about connecting with local food and farms. We’ve started making calls for 2022!Want to get a head start on updating your listing? You can give us a call (828-236-1282) or do it yourself online (click login in the upper right of appalachiangrown.org). The deadline to be included in the print Local Food Guide is Jan. 31 (or Dec. 31 for CSA farms).
Have a new farm, restaurant, retail outlet, or other locally sourcing food business that you want to be listed? Go to appalachiangrown.org and click Get in the Guide. An online listing is completely free.
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Old Kentucky Home -The Thomas Wolfe Memorial
American Novelist Thomas Wolfe (1900-1938)
Considered by many to be one of the giants of 20th-century American literature, Thomas Wolfe immortalized his childhood home in his epic autobiographical novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Wolfe’s colorful portrayal of his family, his hometown of “Altamont” Asheville, North Carolina, and “Dixieland” the Old Kentucky Home boardinghouse, earned the Victorian period house a place as one of American literature’s most famous landmarks.
House tours are offered daily at half past each hour. Last tour leaves at 4:30 pm.
Group tours by reservation.
Adult – $5.00
Student (ages 7-17) – $2.00
Adult Group (10+) – $2.50 each
Student Group – $2.00 each
6 & under – Free
Hours of Operation
In January 2022, we are getting down to business with our first Roundtable Session of the year. In a collaborative and supportive environment, each attendee will have a chance in the hotseat where all the brain power at the table is focused on solving your problem, issue, or question.
This is really a chance to level-up your business or figure out how to implement your dream. Tickets are $26 and available at plrconnectevents.com
| Get in the Local Food Guide! |
Every year, ASAP calls more than 1,400 businesses to update our Local Food Guide and CSA guide so that we get the most accurate information about connecting with local food and farms. We’ve started making calls for 2022!Want to get a head start on updating your listing? You can give us a call (828-236-1282) or do it yourself online (click login in the upper right of appalachiangrown.org). The deadline to be included in the print Local Food Guide is Jan. 31 (or Dec. 31 for CSA farms).
Have a new farm, restaurant, retail outlet, or other locally sourcing food business that you want to be listed? Go to appalachiangrown.org and click Get in the Guide. An online listing is completely free.
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See the WNC Nature Center like never before, behind the scenes! The tour includes learning about how we feed and care for the animals (including the predators, such as the mountain lion), an animal enrichment session, and exclusive interactions with the keepers that care for our animals. Tickets include admission for the day and takes place mainly outdoors.
The tour is for ages 14 and up. Masks will be required the duration of the tour.
*Cancellation policy: Cancellations must be made 1 week prior to the event for a full refund. If the event is cancelled due to weather or COVID related concerns, full refunds will be issued
| Get in the Local Food Guide! |
Every year, ASAP calls more than 1,400 businesses to update our Local Food Guide and CSA guide so that we get the most accurate information about connecting with local food and farms. We’ve started making calls for 2022!Want to get a head start on updating your listing? You can give us a call (828-236-1282) or do it yourself online (click login in the upper right of appalachiangrown.org). The deadline to be included in the print Local Food Guide is Jan. 31 (or Dec. 31 for CSA farms).
Have a new farm, restaurant, retail outlet, or other locally sourcing food business that you want to be listed? Go to appalachiangrown.org and click Get in the Guide. An online listing is completely free.
|

Membership is the cornerstone of the Asheville Downtown Association. By renewing or joining, you are adding your voice to a collective of business, nonprofits and individuals working together for a thriving downtown. Benefits include:
- Inclusion of your business’ profile in our online business directory
- Member news and events featured on our website and in our newsletter
- Business referrals through our website, phone calls and drop-in visitors
- Collective advocacy on issues that affect doing business downtown
- Placement of your brochures in our high-traffic brochure rack
- Networking opportunities at our Member Mixers
Public health has realized for some time that many people are experiencing some level of pandemic fatigue or COVID-19 fatigue as described by the American Medical Association. We’re all weary of the restrictions and guidance about wearing masks and physical distancing. No one imagined that 21 months after the beginning of the pandemic that we’d be facing our most severe phase with the current Omicron variant.Despite the challenges we face today, we will prevail through this current surge and hope to see a significant decline with cases in the next 3 or 4 weeks if current projections hold true. Here are the essential pieces of information you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones in the weeks ahead.The risk of contracting COVID-19 today is higher than it has ever been before.The Omicron variant has proven to be incredibly contagious, and it is usually quantified as being 3 to 4 times more infectious than the Delta variant. We have surpassed our prior peak with the Delta variant and this current surge may eventually triple or quadruple the volume of cases that we’re experiencing now. Look at our daily new cases rate per 100,000 (7 day rolling average) to gauge the volume and rapid expansion of cases. (See table in photos.)In the United States today, there are states with daily new case rates approaching 400, Rhode Island is at 504. In North Carolina today, there are counties with daily new case rates that are now approaching 400. It is reasonable to assume that local case increases will follow this same pattern.Do I need to do something different to protect myself and others during this surge?The short answer is yes. We all need to change and adapt our strategies for the Omicron variant. Here are several key steps you can take to better protect yourself and others:If you are vaccinated and eligible for a booster, please consider getting that booster as soon as possible. The original vaccination series (2 doses of Moderna or Pfizer or 1 dose of J & J vaccine) is not as effective against the Omicron variant as the Delta variant. A booster significantly increases your level of vaccine protection.More breakthrough cases are happening with the Omicron variant, but vaccinations are still highly effective at reducing hospitalizations and deaths. Being up to date with a booster also prevents you from being placed in quarantine should you be exposed to a positive case.If you are unvaccinated, please consider consulting with your physician about your risk factors and the benefits of vaccination. It might not prevent you from getting infected with COVID-19 but will lessen your chances of severe health outcomes.Our 2 local hospitals report that 90% of hospitalized patients are unvaccinated. Vaccinations are still the most effective way to protect yourself. Get the facts from your usual trusted medical professional.Also consider a different approach with face coverings whether you are vaccinated or not. These remain a primary recommendation to provide another layer of protection, particularly for indoor public settings. The Omicron variant spreads more easily, and we have multiple documented cases where people aren’t even aware of how they became exposed. Even very minor time-limited exposures can result in a positive case.Ideally, upgrade your mask type from a cloth face covering to a surgical mask or KN95 mask. These latter 2 options provide more protection for you when around others. Public health does not recommend an N95 mask for the general public. These are still only necessary for those in healthcare or extreme exposure environments.If you are symptomatic stay home, self-isolate and seek testing. Testing availability and supply are limited at this time. If you have symptoms and are unable to get tested assume you are positive for COVID-19 or the flu and self-isolate. Obtain a test as soon as you are able. Close contact should wear masks in all interactions. If close contacts become symptomatic, they too should immediately isolate and obtain a test, if possible.These simple strategies can help us achieve the objectives we originally established with many public health partners as part of our pandemic response plan. Reduce the transmission of disease, protect the most vulnerable and prevent our hospitals from becoming overwhelmed.We will be challenged on all fronts in the coming days. We ask for your help to achieve the best possible outcomes during this difficult phase. Thank you for everything you are already doing to keep yourself and others safe. It matters.Better days are ahead.Steve SmithHealth Director, Henderson County Department of Public Health
Graph: courtesy of Henderson County Department of Public Health
The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Pardee UNC Health Care, Optimum/Morris Broadband, and Judy Stroud/State Farm Insurance are pleased to announce the 15th Annual ATHENA Leadership Award in Henderson County in memory of Vanessa Y. Mintz. Nominations are now being accepted for the ATHENA Leadership Award, which will be presented at the Professional Women’s Luncheon in May to an exemplary leader who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, served the community in a meaningful way, and, most importantly, actively assisted women to achieve their full leadership potential.
Founded over 30 years ago, ATHENA International is a women’s leadership organization that supports, develops and honors women leaders through the programs it administers. ATHENA’s flagship program, the ATHENA Leadership Award Program, has honored over 6000 women leaders from hundreds of cities and eight countries since its inception in 1982.
Vanessa Y. Mintz brought the ATHENA award to Henderson County in 2008 and she embodied the values underlying ATHENA 
International’s philosophy of incorporating the talent and expertise of women into the leadership of our businesses, our communities, and our government. Reflective of a quote attributed to Plato, “What is honored in a country will be cultivated there”, the ATHENA Leadership Award honors and illuminates the leaders and leadership styles of individuals others would emulate.
The program is facilitated locally by the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, a licensed ATHENA host organization. Nominations are sought throughout the community. Recipients are selected by a diverse group of out-of-town professional judges, based on Athena leadership criteria.
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients hail from all professional sectors. The award’s rich history, international scope, and emphasis on mentorship make this award unique and amongst the most prestigious leadership awards one can receive. Past Henderson County ATHENA Recipients Include:
Kathy Streeter Morgan (2021)
Barbara Volk, City of Hendersonville (2020)
Barb Morgan, Project Dignity of WNC (2019)
Lee Henderson Hill, Community Foundation of Henderson County (2018)
Roxanna Pepper, Children & Family Resource Center (2017)
Judy Stroud, State Farm Insurance (2016)
Judith Long, Free Clinics (2015)
Caroline Long, St. Gerard House (2014)
Annie Fritschner, First United Methodist Church (2013)
Myra Grant, Pardee Hospital Foundation (2012)
Joyce Mason, Four Seasons Compassion for Life (2011)
Pat Shepherd, Pat’s School of Dance (2010)
Ragan Ward, Carolina Alliance Bank (2009)
Robin Reed, Bares It All (2008)
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients are presented a hand-cast, bronzed and crystal sculpture that symbolizes the strength, courage, and wisdom of ATHENA Recipients.
| Get in the Local Food Guide! |
Every year, ASAP calls more than 1,400 businesses to update our Local Food Guide and CSA guide so that we get the most accurate information about connecting with local food and farms. We’ve started making calls for 2022!Want to get a head start on updating your listing? You can give us a call (828-236-1282) or do it yourself online (click login in the upper right of appalachiangrown.org). The deadline to be included in the print Local Food Guide is Jan. 31 (or Dec. 31 for CSA farms).
Have a new farm, restaurant, retail outlet, or other locally sourcing food business that you want to be listed? Go to appalachiangrown.org and click Get in the Guide. An online listing is completely free.
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Membership is the cornerstone of the Asheville Downtown Association. By renewing or joining, you are adding your voice to a collective of business, nonprofits and individuals working together for a thriving downtown. Benefits include:
- Inclusion of your business’ profile in our online business directory
- Member news and events featured on our website and in our newsletter
- Business referrals through our website, phone calls and drop-in visitors
- Collective advocacy on issues that affect doing business downtown
- Placement of your brochures in our high-traffic brochure rack
- Networking opportunities at our Member Mixers
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The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Pardee UNC Health Care, Optimum/Morris Broadband, and Judy Stroud/State Farm Insurance are pleased to announce the 15th Annual ATHENA Leadership Award in Henderson County in memory of Vanessa Y. Mintz. Nominations are now being accepted for the ATHENA Leadership Award, which will be presented at the Professional Women’s Luncheon in May to an exemplary leader who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, served the community in a meaningful way, and, most importantly, actively assisted women to achieve their full leadership potential.
Founded over 30 years ago, ATHENA International is a women’s leadership organization that supports, develops and honors women leaders through the programs it administers. ATHENA’s flagship program, the ATHENA Leadership Award Program, has honored over 6000 women leaders from hundreds of cities and eight countries since its inception in 1982.
Vanessa Y. Mintz brought the ATHENA award to Henderson County in 2008 and she embodied the values underlying ATHENA 
International’s philosophy of incorporating the talent and expertise of women into the leadership of our businesses, our communities, and our government. Reflective of a quote attributed to Plato, “What is honored in a country will be cultivated there”, the ATHENA Leadership Award honors and illuminates the leaders and leadership styles of individuals others would emulate.
The program is facilitated locally by the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, a licensed ATHENA host organization. Nominations are sought throughout the community. Recipients are selected by a diverse group of out-of-town professional judges, based on Athena leadership criteria.
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients hail from all professional sectors. The award’s rich history, international scope, and emphasis on mentorship make this award unique and amongst the most prestigious leadership awards one can receive. Past Henderson County ATHENA Recipients Include:
Kathy Streeter Morgan (2021)
Barbara Volk, City of Hendersonville (2020)
Barb Morgan, Project Dignity of WNC (2019)
Lee Henderson Hill, Community Foundation of Henderson County (2018)
Roxanna Pepper, Children & Family Resource Center (2017)
Judy Stroud, State Farm Insurance (2016)
Judith Long, Free Clinics (2015)
Caroline Long, St. Gerard House (2014)
Annie Fritschner, First United Methodist Church (2013)
Myra Grant, Pardee Hospital Foundation (2012)
Joyce Mason, Four Seasons Compassion for Life (2011)
Pat Shepherd, Pat’s School of Dance (2010)
Ragan Ward, Carolina Alliance Bank (2009)
Robin Reed, Bares It All (2008)
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients are presented a hand-cast, bronzed and crystal sculpture that symbolizes the strength, courage, and wisdom of ATHENA Recipients.
Old Kentucky Home -The Thomas Wolfe Memorial
American Novelist Thomas Wolfe (1900-1938)
Considered by many to be one of the giants of 20th-century American literature, Thomas Wolfe immortalized his childhood home in his epic autobiographical novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Wolfe’s colorful portrayal of his family, his hometown of “Altamont” Asheville, North Carolina, and “Dixieland” the Old Kentucky Home boardinghouse, earned the Victorian period house a place as one of American literature’s most famous landmarks.
House tours are offered daily at half past each hour. Last tour leaves at 4:30 pm.
Group tours by reservation.
Adult – $5.00
Student (ages 7-17) – $2.00
Adult Group (10+) – $2.50 each
Student Group – $2.00 each
6 & under – Free
Hours of Operation
Are you building a WordPress website or blog and feel frustrated with achieving the look and feel you have envisioned? If you’ve heard about the Divi theme and other visual builders but are not sure how to start the process, this class is for you. We’ll walk through the basics of activating Divi and building out a website using their pre-built layouts as well as build a layout from scratch. Divi can bring a level of professionalism to your site in just a few hours compared to hammering away for days or weeks on an inferior theme. Join Boomer Sassmann from Big Boom Design as he walks you through a Divi build out and helps to point some of the pitfalls along the way.
Speaker(s): Boomer Sassmann
Co-Sponsor(s): Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Brevard/Transylvania Chamber of Commerce
Webinar info will be sent out after registration
This seminar will cover the basic requirements to help NC businesses understand the laws and obligations necessary to be a tax compliant business. Participants will learn about filing and administrative requirements, the basics of NC sales & use tax law, and the basics of NC withholding tax law in addition to receiving directions for completing sales tax and withholding returns and for filing and paying online. Agencies such as the Secretary of State, Industrial Commission, Employment Security or Business Link NC may be present at dates noted below to deliver additional information.
Speaker(s): NCDOR
Co-Sponsor(s): Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Brevard/Transylvania Chamber of Commerce
Webinar info will be emailed after registration
| Get in the Local Food Guide! |
Every year, ASAP calls more than 1,400 businesses to update our Local Food Guide and CSA guide so that we get the most accurate information about connecting with local food and farms. We’ve started making calls for 2022!Want to get a head start on updating your listing? You can give us a call (828-236-1282) or do it yourself online (click login in the upper right of appalachiangrown.org). The deadline to be included in the print Local Food Guide is Jan. 31 (or Dec. 31 for CSA farms).
Have a new farm, restaurant, retail outlet, or other locally sourcing food business that you want to be listed? Go to appalachiangrown.org and click Get in the Guide. An online listing is completely free.
|

Membership is the cornerstone of the Asheville Downtown Association. By renewing or joining, you are adding your voice to a collective of business, nonprofits and individuals working together for a thriving downtown. Benefits include:
- Inclusion of your business’ profile in our online business directory
- Member news and events featured on our website and in our newsletter
- Business referrals through our website, phone calls and drop-in visitors
- Collective advocacy on issues that affect doing business downtown
- Placement of your brochures in our high-traffic brochure rack
- Networking opportunities at our Member Mixers

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Take your Business to the Next Level with the Mission Accelerator Program
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Companies in 2022 will face a business landscape disrupted by a pandemic: staffing issues, supply chain issues, new business models, shift in consumer purchasing patterns, revenue disruptions, and new applications of tech just to name a few.
The 2022 Mission Accelerator class can help organizations you know develop new tools and strategies to proactively successfully navigate the ever changing business environment that 2022 will be.
Registration is open through January 24th. The program begins January 26th and will meet every-other Wednesday from 8:30 am – 1 pm through June 1st. The cost for the program is $295.
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Not sure if your business could benefit from this program? Take the self-assessment below to rate your success.
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Blue Ridge Community College and the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce have partnered once again to offer the Mission Acceleration Business Accelerator, a five-month, ten-course program.
January 26, 2022
Business Best Practices and KPI (Key Performance Indicators) Checklist by Department Identifying Opportunities for Acceleration
February 9, 2022
Management and Leadership
February 23, 2022
Human Resources, Legal and Insurance
March 9, 2022
Capital and Purchasing
March 23, 2022
Competition and Competitive Advantage
April 6, 2022
Branding, Marketing and Sales
April 20, 2022
Customer Service and Information Technology
May 4, 2022
Business Logistics: Best ways to meet customer needs
May 18, 2022
Accounting and Finance
June 1, 2022
Business Acceleration Plan Presentation and Graduation
Sessions run Wednesdays, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. except 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on January 26.
Cost for the course is $295.
The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Pardee UNC Health Care, Optimum/Morris Broadband, and Judy Stroud/State Farm Insurance are pleased to announce the 15th Annual ATHENA Leadership Award in Henderson County in memory of Vanessa Y. Mintz. Nominations are now being accepted for the ATHENA Leadership Award, which will be presented at the Professional Women’s Luncheon in May to an exemplary leader who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, served the community in a meaningful way, and, most importantly, actively assisted women to achieve their full leadership potential.
Founded over 30 years ago, ATHENA International is a women’s leadership organization that supports, develops and honors women leaders through the programs it administers. ATHENA’s flagship program, the ATHENA Leadership Award Program, has honored over 6000 women leaders from hundreds of cities and eight countries since its inception in 1982.
Vanessa Y. Mintz brought the ATHENA award to Henderson County in 2008 and she embodied the values underlying ATHENA 
International’s philosophy of incorporating the talent and expertise of women into the leadership of our businesses, our communities, and our government. Reflective of a quote attributed to Plato, “What is honored in a country will be cultivated there”, the ATHENA Leadership Award honors and illuminates the leaders and leadership styles of individuals others would emulate.
The program is facilitated locally by the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, a licensed ATHENA host organization. Nominations are sought throughout the community. Recipients are selected by a diverse group of out-of-town professional judges, based on Athena leadership criteria.
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients hail from all professional sectors. The award’s rich history, international scope, and emphasis on mentorship make this award unique and amongst the most prestigious leadership awards one can receive. Past Henderson County ATHENA Recipients Include:
Kathy Streeter Morgan (2021)
Barbara Volk, City of Hendersonville (2020)
Barb Morgan, Project Dignity of WNC (2019)
Lee Henderson Hill, Community Foundation of Henderson County (2018)
Roxanna Pepper, Children & Family Resource Center (2017)
Judy Stroud, State Farm Insurance (2016)
Judith Long, Free Clinics (2015)
Caroline Long, St. Gerard House (2014)
Annie Fritschner, First United Methodist Church (2013)
Myra Grant, Pardee Hospital Foundation (2012)
Joyce Mason, Four Seasons Compassion for Life (2011)
Pat Shepherd, Pat’s School of Dance (2010)
Ragan Ward, Carolina Alliance Bank (2009)
Robin Reed, Bares It All (2008)
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients are presented a hand-cast, bronzed and crystal sculpture that symbolizes the strength, courage, and wisdom of ATHENA Recipients.
Old Kentucky Home -The Thomas Wolfe Memorial
American Novelist Thomas Wolfe (1900-1938)
Considered by many to be one of the giants of 20th-century American literature, Thomas Wolfe immortalized his childhood home in his epic autobiographical novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Wolfe’s colorful portrayal of his family, his hometown of “Altamont” Asheville, North Carolina, and “Dixieland” the Old Kentucky Home boardinghouse, earned the Victorian period house a place as one of American literature’s most famous landmarks.
House tours are offered daily at half past each hour. Last tour leaves at 4:30 pm.
Group tours by reservation.
Adult – $5.00
Student (ages 7-17) – $2.00
Adult Group (10+) – $2.50 each
Student Group – $2.00 each
6 & under – Free
Hours of Operation
| Get in the Local Food Guide! |
Every year, ASAP calls more than 1,400 businesses to update our Local Food Guide and CSA guide so that we get the most accurate information about connecting with local food and farms. We’ve started making calls for 2022!Want to get a head start on updating your listing? You can give us a call (828-236-1282) or do it yourself online (click login in the upper right of appalachiangrown.org). The deadline to be included in the print Local Food Guide is Jan. 31 (or Dec. 31 for CSA farms).
Have a new farm, restaurant, retail outlet, or other locally sourcing food business that you want to be listed? Go to appalachiangrown.org and click Get in the Guide. An online listing is completely free.
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Membership is the cornerstone of the Asheville Downtown Association. By renewing or joining, you are adding your voice to a collective of business, nonprofits and individuals working together for a thriving downtown. Benefits include:
- Inclusion of your business’ profile in our online business directory
- Member news and events featured on our website and in our newsletter
- Business referrals through our website, phone calls and drop-in visitors
- Collective advocacy on issues that affect doing business downtown
- Placement of your brochures in our high-traffic brochure rack
- Networking opportunities at our Member Mixers
Creativity.
Thought-provoking artwork. A sleek new product design. Streamlined policies. New solutions. The much needed life hack. The well-timed pivot.
We’re all applying creativity to meet challenges in myriad ways at work and in our personal lives. At the annual WomanUP celebration on January 27th, we’ll honor the creativity of outstanding women in business and get inspiration to cultivate our own creativity.
We’ve come through another year of pandemic, and we’ve done MORE than survive! As we turn the calendar and begin a brand new year, we have even MORE reasons to smile and celebrate.
In her keynote Deliberate Creativity: Innovate to Thrive, Dr. Amy Climer encourages us to cultivate a mindset of openness as we face the new year head on. Over the past two years, businesses have had countless opportunities to innovate. Some have ignored the call and faded away. Others stepped up, got creative and are now thriving. Innovation is critical, especially during times of change and uncertainty. But it’s not always easy. During Dr. Climer’s presentation, you’ll learn how deliberate creativity works and hear inspiring stories of local businesses who innovated and are now thriving.
Awards to Outstanding Women in Business
- Outstanding Woman Nonprofit Leader, presented by TD Bank
- Woman Executive of the Year Award, presented by MAHEC
- Women Entrepreneurs, Best in Business Award, presented by Webb Investments Services, Inc.
- Rising Star Young Woman Professional Award, presented by Western Carolina University
- Impact Award, presented by Kudzu Brands
- Suzanne DeFerie Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by First Bank
Nominations are currently being accepted (submission deadline is December 1st). Self-nomination is accepted, or nominate a woman you know who exemplifies excellence in her field! Click here to nominate: 2022 WomanUP Awards
The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, Pardee UNC Health Care, Optimum/Morris Broadband, and Judy Stroud/State Farm Insurance are pleased to announce the 15th Annual ATHENA Leadership Award in Henderson County in memory of Vanessa Y. Mintz. Nominations are now being accepted for the ATHENA Leadership Award, which will be presented at the Professional Women’s Luncheon in May to an exemplary leader who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, served the community in a meaningful way, and, most importantly, actively assisted women to achieve their full leadership potential.
Founded over 30 years ago, ATHENA International is a women’s leadership organization that supports, develops and honors women leaders through the programs it administers. ATHENA’s flagship program, the ATHENA Leadership Award Program, has honored over 6000 women leaders from hundreds of cities and eight countries since its inception in 1982.
Vanessa Y. Mintz brought the ATHENA award to Henderson County in 2008 and she embodied the values underlying ATHENA 
International’s philosophy of incorporating the talent and expertise of women into the leadership of our businesses, our communities, and our government. Reflective of a quote attributed to Plato, “What is honored in a country will be cultivated there”, the ATHENA Leadership Award honors and illuminates the leaders and leadership styles of individuals others would emulate.
The program is facilitated locally by the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, a licensed ATHENA host organization. Nominations are sought throughout the community. Recipients are selected by a diverse group of out-of-town professional judges, based on Athena leadership criteria.
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients hail from all professional sectors. The award’s rich history, international scope, and emphasis on mentorship make this award unique and amongst the most prestigious leadership awards one can receive. Past Henderson County ATHENA Recipients Include:
Kathy Streeter Morgan (2021)
Barbara Volk, City of Hendersonville (2020)
Barb Morgan, Project Dignity of WNC (2019)
Lee Henderson Hill, Community Foundation of Henderson County (2018)
Roxanna Pepper, Children & Family Resource Center (2017)
Judy Stroud, State Farm Insurance (2016)
Judith Long, Free Clinics (2015)
Caroline Long, St. Gerard House (2014)
Annie Fritschner, First United Methodist Church (2013)
Myra Grant, Pardee Hospital Foundation (2012)
Joyce Mason, Four Seasons Compassion for Life (2011)
Pat Shepherd, Pat’s School of Dance (2010)
Ragan Ward, Carolina Alliance Bank (2009)
Robin Reed, Bares It All (2008)
ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients are presented a hand-cast, bronzed and crystal sculpture that symbolizes the strength, courage, and wisdom of ATHENA Recipients.





