Way-Finding Signs Going up Countywide

On Monday, December 14, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority unveiled the first of many Way-Finding signs going up countywide.  The signs are designed to showcase our area's attractions as well as help visitors find shopping, parking, and provide directions.  The signs are being funded through the Tourism Product Development Fund which receives money through hotel occupancy tax in Buncombe County. 

Tickets Now on Sale for the 2010 Culinary AffAIR
Let the Asheville Independent Restaurant Association delight your senses on January 28, 2010 at The Culinary AffAIR hosted by Joe and Janice Brumit. Start the evening with unique hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails. Then sit down to enjoy a six-course dinner with wine pairings, served to you tableside by some of Asheville’s culinary celebs. This evening is presented by the FIRC Group and will be held at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel from 7-11 p.m. Tickets are $125. Black tie encouraged. Visit the event website to reserve your seats. Discounted room rates are also available that evening at the Doubletree.  Seats are limited!

We're For Business Awards Nominations Now Being Accepted

At the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce we take pride in the achievements of our entire business community, regardless of size or type of business. The We're For Business Awards celebrate local businesses based on their group's achievements in one of several areas. Nominations are now open for the 2010 We're For Business Awards:

• Over the Top amazing customer service award
• Pearlman’s Carpet One presents One for All outstanding commitment to community award
• George’s Stor-Mor presents Out on a Limb exceptionally innovative business award
• Forest Commercial Bank presents Operating Green environmentally sound practices award

Please visit the AshevilleChamber.org website for more information on nominating your business for one of these awards.  The We're For Business Award reception will be held on February 23, 2010 at the Crowne Plaza Tennis and Golf Resort. Tickets for the luncheon can be purchased on the Chamber website.

New Schedule for Business Before and After Hours

Asheville's premier networking events, the Chamber's Business Before and After Hours will be on a new schedule in 2010.  The move was made to prevent conflicts with other organization's events.  Business After Hours will now be held on the first Thursday of the month and the Business Before Hours will be held on the third Tuesday of the month.  The change will take place in January with the Business After Hours, presented by Clear Channel Asheville, hosted by Hill Partners taking place on Thursday, January 7 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. The January Business Before Hours, presented by BB&T, will be held on January 19, co-hosted by Asset Protection Network and International Tenant Representative Alliance.

Jump start your career in the new year!

If your New Years’ resolution includes finding the right job, advancing your career, or helping a friend or loved one return home to Western North Carolina to continue their career – mark your calendar for the 4th Annual Homecoming Job Fair: Tuesday, December 29, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Biltmore Square Mall. Come network and interview with the area’s leading employers in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, hospitality, professional and technical services. For complete details and a listing of registered employers, please visit homecomingjobfair.com! For information on resume and interview workshops please contact the JobLink Career Center: 828.250.4761.

Keep an Eye Out for the HO HO GoMini

As you drive around town searching for Christmas presents, be sure to watch for the HO HO GoMini. Starting Thursday, December 10, and ending Tuesday, December 22, you will be able to spot the “HO HO GoMini” complete with Christmas décor as it makes its rounds via the GoMini delivery truck throughout the Asheville area.   When you spot the container, call 828.209.0235 or email info@needagomini.com with the date, time and location of the HO HO GoMini. Those entered in the contest will be eligible for a $30 Brixx Pizza gift certificate and two tickets to the movies at the Biltmore Grande Stadium in Biltmore Park. Contest details will also be available on GoMinis’ Twitter and Facebook pages

Asheville Regional Airport Begins Daily Service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport

The Asheville Regional Airport Authority will celebrate the addition of twice-daily non-stop service from the Asheville Regional Airport to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport this week.  The United Express service begins on Thursday, December 17, with an inaugural flight.  For more information visit flyavl.com.