tag:www.wncbusiness.com,2005:/categories/anniversariesAnniversaries & Milestones | WNC Business Connect | Inform | Inspire2024-03-19T13:43:11-04:00urn:uuid:a9169c95-8a38-41fd-a193-d31d275a76452024-03-19T13:43:06-04:002024-03-19T13:43:11-04:00MAHEC celebrates 50th anniversary2024-03-19 13:43:06 -0400WNC BusinessASHEVILLE - With the founding of Mountain Area Health Education Center — MAHEC — on March 22, 1974, the independent, mission-driven, not-for-profit organization has been honored with a Proclamation from Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer recognizing March as MAHEC’s 50TH Anniversary Month. The ceremony took place at the regular meeting of Asheville City Council on May 12 in front of a capacity crowd. <br><br>Accepting the Proclamation was MAHEC CEO Dr. William R. (Bill) Hathaway (shown center), joined by representatives of MAHEC’s highly trained and dedicated staff and board (left to right): Carol Steen, member of the MAHEC Board of Directors; Julie Burger, RN, Program Manager of the MAHEC School Health Program; Tamara Garland, BSN, RN, School Health Nurse Supervisor; Qiarra Martin, a local high school student participating in MAHEC’s Medical Mentoring Program; Francisco Castelblanco, RN, DPN, AHEC Director and Chair of Continuing Professional Development; Leslie Council, CPLC, Director of Health Careers and Diversity Education; Dr. Amy Russell, Chief Medical and Population Health Officer; Dr. Steve Buie, Chair, Department of Psychology; Gwyneth DeHart, MHA, representing MAHEC’s Department of Program Evaluation and Research; Sandra Whitlock, MD, Associate Dean and Director of UNC School of Medicine Asheville Campus; Tessa Scarborough, MRes, Administrative Director, Center for Psychiatry; Carriedelle Fusco, FNP-BC, Medical Director of Office-Based Opioid Treatment Clinical Services; Dolly Pressley Byrd, CNM, PhD, Medical Director and Interim Chair, Ob-Gyn Department. <br><br><i>Source: MAHEC</i><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:0dda5af3-bdb6-40b5-9f85-ea0fd3178cdf2024-03-18T15:24:02-04:002024-03-18T15:24:06-04:00ETC Consignment Shoppe celebrates 30th anniversary2024-03-18 15:24:01 -0400Randee Brown<p>ETC Consignment Shoppe announced its 30th business anniversary. Since March of 1994, the store has served its community of more than 5,000 Facebook followers and 13,280 consigners. </p><p>Originally opened on Patton Avenue in Asheville, the business relocated to its current Weaverville location at The Little Mall in 2021. The store is also host to more than 70 local artists and makers offering products that include a variety of handmade foods, bath goods, and jewelry.</p><p><br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:b116a5ee-3060-4561-807f-a3cd4bbf32e22024-03-14T11:11:15-04:002024-03-14T11:11:20-04:00S.O.S. opens inaugural office space2024-03-14 11:11:14 -0400WNC Business<p>In February 2024, Senior Oral-health Services achieved a significant milestone by securing its inaugural office space at 204 Charlotte Highway, Asheville, NC 28803. As April 2024 approaches, the business is also celebrating its seven-year anniversary of dedicated service to the dependent elderly population in Western North Carolina, providing onsite preventive oral care services.</p><p>S.O.S.'s journey began in 2017 with the three founding owners, initially offering services to a single assisted living facility. Over the years, they have experienced remarkable growth, expanding their team to 10 dedicated professionals. Currently, more than 16 facilities across Western North Carolina, spanning five counties, receive service from S.O.S. This growth is a testament to their commitment to enhancing the well-being of the elderly in our community.</p><div>Reflecting on seven years of progress, the leadership team said they are grateful for the support and trust of their clients, partners, and the community at large. S.O.S. looks forward to continuing their mission of providing high-quality oral care services to the elderly population in the region. <br><br><i>Source: Senior Oral-health Services</i></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:3a6d5529-3337-434e-b9f2-c810d5246fbd2024-03-12T15:23:35-04:002024-03-12T15:23:57-04:00Veterans Services Director Regina Goforth retires 2024-03-12 15:23:34 -0400WNC Business<span><p>LENOIR - After 32 years of service to Caldwell County, Veterans Services Director Regina Goforth retired on February 29. </p><p>Goforth began her career with the county as the secretary in the Fire Marshal’s Office. From there she severed as Emergency Medical Services secretary, Information Technology technician, and Human Resources administrative assistant before being named Veterans Services director in 2017. </p><p>“During her time with Veterans Services, Goforth was a staunch advocate for veterans at the local, state, and national levels, advocating for veterans in Caldwell County, always giving them the greatest respect and assistance,” said Caldwell County Board of Commissioners Chair Randy Church. </p><p>Goforth believed serving veterans “was not a job at all but a privilege.” Because she counted her role a privilege, she started the annual Caldwell County Veterans Appreciation Lunch which has recognized veterans for 13 years. </p><p>Goforth worked closely with numerous veterans accrediting organizations, associations, and state work groups including the North Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of America, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, Military Order of the Purple Heart, and the Retired Enlisted Association. </p><p>In addition to working with local and state veterans’ groups, Goforth is also a member of the American Legion Women's Auxiliary Hudson Unit 392, Day 3 Church and their women’s ministry, and several other groups that serve veterans. </p><p>Goforth’s retirement plans include spending more time with her family, especially her great-grandchildren, and finding ways to serve her community. </p><p><i>Photo Caption: Goforth is congratulated by the Caldwell County Board of Commissioners. Pictured from left to right are Jeff Branch, Donnie Potter, Randy Church, Goforth, Robbie Wilkie, and Mike LaBrose.</i></p><p><i>Source: Caldwell Chamber of Commerce</i></p><div><br></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:cb927a7a-381d-4038-8d55-1a389ab5ddfb2024-02-20T17:15:40-05:002024-02-20T17:15:45-05:00Julie Spiro Donaldson celebrates 25th anniversary2024-02-20 17:15:39 -0500WNC BusinessOn Thursday, February 15, the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 25th work anniversary of Executive Director Julie Spiro Donaldson. The chamber staff treated her to a special surprise lunch before its board of directors, ambassador team, and many chamber friends, members, and former board members came by to celebrate her throughout the afternoon. Everyone enjoyed some snacks and a celebratory cake in her honor. All three of Jackson County's townships (Sylva, Webster, and Dillsboro) gave her official proclamations in her honor. <br><br><i>Source: Jackson County Chamber of Commerce</i><br><i>Pictured: From left, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Chair Chad Gerrety, Chamber Assistant Director Kelly Donaldson, Chamber Executive Director Julie Donaldson, Chamber staff member Tammy Haskett, and Chamber Office Manager Belinda Bryson.</i><br><br><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:8f33259f-d35f-4f53-99ca-004d703b64912024-02-06T13:48:33-05:002024-02-07T08:14:29-05:00AVL Regional Airport surpasses 2 million annual passengers2024-02-06 13:48:33 -0500WNC Business<p>ASHEVILLE - Following the commencement of the largest construction project in Asheville Regional Airport's history, the airport marks another record-breaking year, showcasing continued double-digit growth. In 2023, 2,246,411 passengers traveled to or from AVL, a 22.2% increase over 2022 figures, catapulting the airport's annual passenger count beyond the 2 million mark for the first time.</p><p>Lew Bleiweis, President and CEO, stated, "The growth at our region's airport is not just significant; it's extraordinary. We extend our congratulations to our airline partners for their successes in Western North Carolina and express our gratitude to our region's travelers for consistently choosing AVL for their journeys."</p><p>The growth in 2023 can be attributed to several factors. First, airlines actively expanded their offerings, introducing new routes and enhancing services on existing ones. Airlines at AVL now offer 27 unique nonstop airport destinations, the highest in the airport’s history. This range of air service options provides travelers with increased choices and flexibility, whether departing from or arriving in AVL for their travel plans.</p><p>Second, local travelers demonstrated a strong preference for flying from their regional airport, a crucial element bolstering airline growth in the market.</p><p>Lastly, the region's prominence as a nationally-recognized travel destination played a pivotal role, with Asheville Regional Airport positioned as the gateway for many of the region’s visitors. </p><p>“I would like to personally thank our local travelers and neighbors for their continued support and patience as we manage this ongoing, extraordinary growth,” said Bleiweis. “We are hard at work building the airport passenger terminal of our region’s future, more parking has been constructed, and we are focused on helping the passenger experience be as smooth as possible during this important and exciting construction period.”</p><em><b>About Asheville Regional Airport:</b></em><br><em>The third-busiest commercial service airport in North Carolina, AVL is served by six airline partners: Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, Sun Country and United, who offer nonstop service to 27 unique airport destinations throughout the country. To learn more, visit </em><a href="http://www.FlyAVL.com"><em>FlyAVL.com</em></a><em>. To learn more about the airport’s construction project that will result in a new airport passenger terminal, visit </em><a href="http://www.FlyAVL.com/AVLForward"><em>FlyAVL.com/AVLForward</em></a><em>. <br></em><i>Source: Asheville Regional Airport</i><br><div><em><br></em></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:ce29ed4a-1035-47e0-bcc1-d82ed32aa0592024-01-31T09:55:15-05:002024-02-02T15:47:31-05:00Asheville Angels celebrates 10-year milestone and rebranding VentureSouth Asheville 2024-01-31 09:55:15 -0500WNC Business<p>In a celebration of a decade of innovation and investment, VentureSouth Asheville announced its 10th anniversary. Founded as Asheville Angels in April 2014, the group has played a pivotal role in supporting and shaping the startup landscape
in the Southeastern region. </p><p>
Asheville Angels joined VentureSouth as its first chapter outside the state of South Carolina. </p><p>
“All that time, we’ve held on to the original ‘Asheville Angels’ name. Given the immense growth and success of VentureSouth, this
milestone feels like the appropriate time to align branding throughout the greater organization,” said Jeffrey Kaplan, Market Director for VentureSouth and Executive Director of Venture Asheville,
the high-growth entrepreneurship initiative of the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville – Buncombe County and the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. </p><p>
What began as a local initiative has evolved into a chapter under the umbrella of VentureSouth, the renowned early-stage
venture fund headquartered in Greenville, SC. Asheville Angels has been a key contributor to VentureSouth's success, demonstrating how engaged investors can help fund and support entrepreneurs in cities of all sizes and locations and contributing substantially
to the total capital invested of over $80 million in over 100 companies. </p><p>
With nearly 600 active investors across 20+ cities ranging from Jacksonville, Florida to Central Virgina, VentureSouth has consistently
ranked among the Top 10 angel investor groups in the United States since 2014. </p><p>
To mark this occasion, Asheville Angels is proud to announce its rebranding to VentureSouth Asheville. This transition aims to align
the local chapter more closely with the VentureSouth brand and leverage the momentum behind this influential investment network. </p><p>
“It has been a great pleasure to add our small contribution to the growing startup community in Asheville since the launch of Asheville
Angels a decade ago,” said Paul Clark, cofounder of VentureSouth. </p><p>
Clark, who is lucky enough to spend much of his time in Asheville, will be participating in an educational event to mark the milestone
next month. </p><li><b>10 Years of Impact:</b> Celebrating a decade of fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs. <br></li><li><b>$80 Million Invested:</b> VentureSouth Asheville has played a vital role in contributing to VentureSouth's cumulative investment of over $80 million in startups. </li><li><b>Rebranding:</b> Asheville Angels transitions to VentureSouth Asheville, reflecting a unified identity within the VentureSouth network. </li><p>
The Rebranding Celebration Lunch and Learn with AMA on Angel Investing takes place Feb 6 from 12:00 - 1:00 PM at the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. The community is invited to the event which marks a decade of success while celebrating the beginning of a new and exciting chapter as VentureSouth Asheville. The program includes an engaging “Ask Me
Anything” session on angel investing, providing attendees with the opportunity to ask questions of seasoned investors, addressing the crucial aspects of maintaining a balance of control in angel investing, with a focus on board service and responsibilities.
RSVP required at <i><a href="https://TeamUp.com/Event/Show/id/kMpcFZFYhvTnqUJHnKgxag8DqLBVSc" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">TeamUp.com/Event/Show/id/kMpcFZFYhvTnqUJHnKgxag8DqLBVSc</a>.</i></p><div><b>Event Information:</b> <br><p> <b>Rebranding Celebration Lunch and Learn with AMA on Angel Investing</b> </p><p>February 6, 2024 from 12:00 - 1:00 PM. <br>Asheville Chamber of Commerce, 2nd floor Board Room. 36 Montford Ave </p><p>VentureSouth Asheville is excited to invite the community to a special Lunch and Learn event hosted at the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. This event marks the official announcement of the chapter's rebranding from Asheville Angels to VentureSouth Asheville. Speakers include Jeffrey Kaplan, Director of Venture Asheville, and Paul Clark, Managing Director of VentureSouth. </p><p><b>Agenda:</b> </p></div><li><b>Welcome and Introduction: </b>Overview of VentureSouth Asheville's 10-year journey and contribution to the Southeastern startup ecosystem. <br></li><li><b>Rebranding Unveiling: </b>Official announcement and unveiling of the new VentureSouth Asheville identity. <br></li><li><b>AMA Session on Angel Investing, Balancing Control in Angel Investing, Board Service and Responsibilities: </b>Engaging Ask Me Anything session on angel investing, providing attendees with the opportunity to ask questions to seasoned investors, addressing the crucial aspects of maintaining a balance of control in angel investing, with a focus on board service and responsibilities. <br></li><li><p>To attend this exclusive event, please RSVP by February 3 at <a href="https://teamup.com/Event/Show/id/kMpcFZFYhvTnqUJHnKgxag8DqLBVSc" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">TeamUp.com/Event/Show/id/kMpcFZFYhvTnqUJHnKgxag8DqLBVSc</a> </p></li><li><p>This Lunch and Learn event promises to be an insightful and celebratory occasion, bringing together the VentureSouth Asheville community and those interested in the dynamics of angel investing. Lunch is included, but RSVP is required. </p></li><p>
<span><b><i>About Venture Asheville</i></b><i> </i></span></p><p><i>
Venture Asheville is the high-growth entrepreneurship initiative of the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe
County and the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. Venture Asheville grows Asheville’s startup community and connects high-growth entrepreneurs to talent, mentors and investors through unique programming and events. For more on Venture Asheville, visit
</i><a href="http://www.VentureAsheville.com" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"><i>VentureAsheville.com</i></a><i>. </i></p><p><i>
</i><span><b><i>About the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County</i></b><i> </i></span></p><p><i>
</i><span><i>The Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County</i><b><i>
</i></b><i>is a public-private partnership committed to: creating and retaining high quality jobs, community leadership, and being a resource for better business decisions. The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce’s staff executes the EDC mission through five core
services: business retention and expansion, entrepreneurship, marketing and recruitment, workforce development and Riverbird Research. The EDC is funded by Buncombe County, the City of Asheville, the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and the AVL 5x5 Campaign.
For more information, visit </i></span><a href="http://www.AshevilleChamber.org/Economic-Development" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"><i>AshevilleChamber.org/Economic-Development</i></a><i>. </i></p><p><i>
</i><span><b><i>About Asheville Chamber of Commerce</i></b><i> </i></span></p><i>
For 125 years, the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce has been the catalyst for economic vitality in our community. Asheville
Chamber initiatives have stimulated economic development, influenced public policy and supported the growth of thousands of local and regional businesses. Today, the Asheville Chamber: fosters collaboration among business and community leaders from Asheville
and throughout the region; connects businesses to the resources they need to be successful; and takes a reasoned and thoughtful approach to advocating for business and community issues. Together with its members and partners, the Asheville Chamber nurtures
a healthy business environment to create a better quality of life and future for the people who call our region home. Learn more at
</i><a href="http://www.AshevilleChamber.org" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"><i>AshevilleChamber.org</i></a><i>. <br></i><br><i>Source: Venture Asheville </i><br><div><br></div><br><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e1205ce8-4406-49ea-9a01-76e0778f5f902024-01-15T18:27:40-05:002024-02-02T11:21:29-05:00Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn celebrates 10 Years with new look and new flavors2024-01-15 18:27:39 -0500WNC Business<p>ASHEVILLE – <span><a href="https://www.poppyhandcraftedpopcorn.com/" target="_blank">Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn</a>, the all-natural gourmet popcorn company specializing in unique and delightful flavors of popcorn, announced a brand refresh and a new International Series featuring a trio of brand-new flavors, launched to celebrate Poppy’s 10th year. New market bag packaging will be unveiled to Poppy’s wholesale customers in the home and gift sector at this month’s Dallas and Atlanta Markets. The new packaging is slated to launch to all-natural and gourmet grocery customers during the second quarter of 2024. Starting January 12, the three brand-new flavors – Mexican Street Corn, Mediterranean Herb, and Caribbean Jerk – will be available in the new packaging at <a href="http://www.PoppyHandcraftedPopcorn.com" target="_blank">PoppyHandcraftedPopcorn.com</a>. </span></p><p>“As we continue to grow in 'home and gift' as well as 'gourmet food and natural grocery', we want all our packaging to be beautifully cohesive,” said founder and CEO Ginger Frank. “That way, whether our wholesale customers carry just a few flavors or the complete line, it will always look gorgeous. Because we want to do this right, the full transition to new packaging will take place over Q1 and Q2. We’re celebrating our 10th anniversary all year long, though, so the transition comes at the perfect time!”</p><p><span>Frank worked with the team at <a href="https://www.madeoutside.com/" target="_blank">Made Outside</a> in Charlotte to visually communicate the journey of Poppy on the new packaging and the brand’s new website. “The visual elements on the new packaging are all about what makes Poppy tick,” said Frank. “The corn represents the farms we work with; the hearts represent the love we have for our community and the love that goes into making our popcorn. The sun and clouds remind us that both the sunny days and the cloudy days help us grow, and the smiley faces represent the fun of sharing your favorite popcorn with your favorite friends.” <u></u><u></u></span></p><p><span>Poppy is also celebrating 10 years with a trio of new flavors inspired by the team’s enjoyment of good food from around the world. Each SKU is naturally gluten-free with a MSRP of $6.95:<u></u><u></u></span></p><ul><li><b>Mexican Street Corn: </b>Creamy, cheesy popcorn made with warm flavors of chipotle, cumin, ancho chili, and tangy lime. <b><u></u><u></u></b></li><li><b>Mediterranean Herb: </b>Cheesy popcorn with oregano, a dash of garlic, lemon, basil, and thyme. <b><u></u><u></u></b></li><li><b>Caribbean Jerk: </b>Traditional jerk seasoned popcorn made with a touch of citrus, brown sugar, and crispy plantain chips. (Vegan flavor)<b><u></u><u></u></b></li></ul><p><span><u></u> </span>“We developed the three new flavors after a trip to Italy with my kids,” said Frank. “Snack flavors around the world are so incredibly varied and interesting – Prawn Cocktail potato chips, for example! I’m always striving to expand Poppy’s flavor palette. The team and I started with 10 international flavor ideas. The whole Poppy team taste-tested them and voted, and these three came out on top! We can’t wait to share the new flavors – I know people will love them.”</p><p><span>In addition to introducing three new flavors, Poppy is bringing back three flavors that have been customer favorites. Dill Pickle, Chai Latte (formerly Chai Masala), and<b> </b>Southern Pecan Pie will now be year-round flavors in honor of the tenth anniversary. </span></p><p>Every batch of Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn is crafted in Western North Carolina and made with love and all-natural ingredients, including the brand’s fresh, non-GMO popcorn. To learn more about Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn, visit <a href="http://www.PoppyHandcraftedPopcorn.com" target="_blank">PoppyHandcraftedPopcorn.com</a>. <span><u></u> </span></p><b><i>About Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn:</i></b><br><i>Since 2014, Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn has been on a mission to create PURE. SIMPLE. POPCORN HAPPINESS. Led by founder and CEO Ginger Frank, Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn is reimagining the way gourmet popcorn is produced and flavored. The company embraces a small-batch approach, using high-quality, simple, all-natural ingredients (including non-GMO corn). Available at retailers throughout North America, Poppy remains committed to creating jobs and culinary partnerships right here in North Carolina. Shop Poppy or find a local retailer at </i><a href="http://poppyhandcraftedpopcorn.com/" target="_blank"><i>PoppyHandcraftedPopcorn.com</i></a><span><i>, or connect on social @PoppyHandcraftedPopcorn.</i><br></span><i>Source: Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn</i><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e79a030f-2ab8-49e5-afb4-c184c311e4f72023-12-26T11:20:52-05:002023-12-26T11:20:55-05:00Hipps steps down as Chamber president2023-12-26 11:20:51 -0500WNC Business<span><p>At the December 20th Haywood Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, CeCe Hipps announced that she would be stepping down next summer after leading the Chamber for nearly 20 years. “We have been fortunate to have had CeCe’s leadership. She has made so many contributions to the success of Haywood County and will be missed,” said Chamber Board Chair Laura Tragesser. </p><p>Over the past 20 years, the Chamber of Commerce has assisted Haywood County's growth by making connections to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. “I’m proud of what we have accomplished in making this an attractive place for business growth and have been honored to serve as a voice for the community. Connecting individuals and organizations with opportunities for professional development has been one of my personal passions. I am also thankful for the opportunity to serve alongside Haywood County leaders, Chamber members, and especially the Chamber staff.” said Hipps. </p><p>“Hipps has a strong record of success and has been responsible for building a robust and active chamber with a small budget and small team during the most challenging economic times and disasters. She has been creative and innovative in providing programming and opportunities to engage and empower individuals, especially young professionals and entrepreneurs, to become leaders and serve their communities. Hipps understands the importance of engaging her board and creating an environment of pride and ownership of the chamber,” said long-serving Chamber Board Member Bruce Johnson. </p><p>During Hipp's tenure, the Chamber of Commerce has helped Haywood County navigate natural and economic disasters, including the Great Recession in 2008, the COVID-19 pandemic, the devasting floods in 2004 and 2021, and the closure of the Pactiv Evergreen Mill in Canton in 2023. “Our response to these events shows the true heart of the community and how we help our neighbors during these times,” she added. “Throughout our biggest challenges, CeCe has been a consistent, positive voice and stable leader,” said Ken Howle, Executive Director of Lake Junaluska. </p><p>Hipps advocated for her community during recessions and the pandemic to ensure all businesses received daily information regarding the status of the virus, grants, and PPP funding. In addition, she pulled together a team of resource providers, business experts, and leaders to provide information on business survival and methods to make necessary changes due to staffing and supply shortages while managing support to provide information learning sessions in a safe environment when Zoom burnout was evident. She was also instrumental in recovering from a significant flood that destroyed a part of the community. Her connections with business owners, manufacturers, and medical facilities assisted in providing essential supplies and volunteers to assist in clean-up during a pandemic. </p><p>“She understands the importance of regionalism, advocating for proper growth and change, and works with regional allies on relevant common issues,” said Board Chair Laura Tragesser. Working with her peers and sharing information, programming, and materials with other chamber professionals are the backbone of her belief that 'we are stronger when we work together'.</p><p>During Hipp's tenure, the Haywood Chamber celebrated 50 years in October 2021. In 2018, the Haywood Chamber began working with the Asheville Buncombe Chamber to generate new energy and enthusiasm around economic development, which has expanded during the last several years to include other areas of need in housing, broadband, and recreational facilities. Each October, The Apple Festival has grown and brings an estimated $300,000 to the local economy for the one-day event. </p><p>In addition to growing the Apple Festival from 70 vendors to over 100 and being named one of the top 10 Fall Harvest festivals in 2020, she has implemented many events and programs, with the majority still being active programs of the chamber. Issues and Eggs, Women in Business, Women’s Empower Hour, Leadership Haywood, Chamber Connects, the Elected Officials Reception, and the Meet n Greet’s with candidates seeking office. In addition, Hipps has used her experience with public policy to adopt a Legislative Priorities agenda while working with county leaders to seek their input. She also implemented an annual Legislative Trip to Raleigh and has been part of planning a legislative trip to Washington, DC. “She understands the value of having good working relationships with elected officials while putting partisan politics aside,” said Board Chair Laura Tragesser.</p><p>In October, Hipps and the Haywood Chamber of Commerce were recognized with the prestigious designation of a Carolina Accredited Chamber by the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. The Haywood Chamber is one of only 35 chambers in North and South Carolina recognized for their standards of excellence in the profession. This designation recognizes the Haywood Chamber of Commerce as one of the elite chambers in North and South Carolina to be certified. </p><p>In addition to the CACCE Certification, Hipps also received the CCE and IOM designations, the NC Government Basic Economic Development Certification, and a graduate of Leadership North Carolina. She was one of five team members who received the first Advantage West Certified Entrepreneurial Certification for Haywood County. She worked with key community leaders and recognized Haywood County as the First Certified entrepreneurial Community, assuring programs and support were available for businesses.</p><p>CeCe has and currently serves on several community committees and has been a part of visioning and planning processes throughout her tenure in Haywood County. She plans to continue residence in Haywood County, spend more time with her family, and explore new career opportunities. </p><p>The Haywood County Board of Directors has established a search committee of local business, government, and education leaders. The process of determining a successor for CeCe will begin immediately, and a job description will be posted on the Chamber’s website in late January. Learn more at <a href="http://www.HaywoodChamber.com">HaywoodChamber.com</a>.</p><div><br></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:ea6b2d6e-8833-4931-8649-675c9bc3ef022023-11-29T14:18:42-05:002023-11-29T14:18:46-05:00 HCPS celebrates 30th anniversary2023-11-29 14:18:41 -0500WNC Business<span><p>HENDERSONVILLE — Henderson County Public Schools announces the “Celebrating 30 Years TOGETHER” campaign and logo, as the district commemorates its 30th Anniversary of the merger that established today’s HCPS family. </p><p>“Celebrating 30 Years TOGETHER” honors the collaborative work within HCPS. HCPS encourages current and former students, families, and staff to participate in “Celebrating 30 Years TOGETHER” by visiting the 30th Anniversary website, <a href="https://30.hcpsnc.com">30.hcpsnc.com</a> and sharing pictures and videos of their journeys through HCPS on social media with the hashtag #HCPS30YearsTogether or #HCPS30. </p><p>Although education in Henderson County dates back as far as 1797 to Mills River Academy’s one-room schoolhouse, the school district that currently educates more than 12,500 students in Western North Carolina was officially established in 1993 through the merger of Hendersonville City Schools and Henderson County Schools. </p><p>Since then, HCPS student enrollment has grown by 20%, becoming the largest employer in Henderson County. The district has multiplied and diversified its educational opportunities for students and broadened its impact on families through an expanded network of services and supports. </p><p>Over the years, HCPS students have benefitted from programming and services including the Spanish dual language immersion program at Bruce Drysdale Elementary, grade-level outdoor education and water safety programs, school-based health centers, robotics teams, robust work-based-learning opportunities and apprenticeships through local industry partnerships, universal no-cost meals during the school year, and “Meals on the Bus” mobile feeding sites in the summer. </p><p>Today, HCPS includes 23 schools, 11 of which have been built or renovated in the last 30 years. This includes the Innovative High School established in 2017 on the campus of Blue Ridge Community College, home to the Career Academy and Early College. Thirteen HCPS schools implement the Leader In Me whole-school student leadership model, including North Carolina’s first high school to earn the Lighthouse School designation by FranklinCovey Education. </p><p><b>Mission:</b> HCPS will provide all students the opportunity to learn and the encouragement to succeed in a safe environment. They will honor the individual and nurture the potential of all children. </p><p><b>Vision:</b> Every student will achieve success and graduate as a life-long learner, globally competitive, prepared for career, college, and life.</p><p>With high student graduation rates and nationally-recognized percentages of teachers who are National Board Certified, HCPS has demonstrated a history of growing leaders at both the student and professional levels. </p><p>Since 2010, HCPS has been home to four Western Region Principals of the Year (2010, 2015, 2016, 2022) and one North Carolina Principal of the Year (2010) through the Wells Fargo North Carolina Teacher of the Year Program, and a North Carolina Regional Teacher of the Year for the Western Region (2022). </p><p>“There is a rich history of education in Henderson County that we all benefit from and share. The merger of Hendersonville City Schools and Henderson County Schools in 1993 is the watershed event that created Henderson County Public Schools, laying the foundation for the many successes over the past 30 years. We want the community to celebrate alongside us as we honor our past and focus on our future,” said Superintendent Mark R. Garrett. </p><p>“Public schools have long been the backbone of this nation, this state, and this community. We are proud to serve every citizen of Henderson County as your Henderson County Public Schools. Here’s to the next 30 years!” </p><p><i>Source: Henderson County Public Schools</i></p><div><br></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>