2011 IntraCity Visit: UnSung Asheville

News Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Laura Copeland

Vice President of Public Policy

Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

(828) 258-6126

lcopeland@ashevillechamber.org

CHAMBER HOSTS 2011 INTRACITY VISIT

– Public Registration Open for UNSUNG ASHEVILLE –

ASHEVILLE, NC (September 6, 2011) -- The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce is assembling a diverse delegation of community leaders to participate in a two-day collaborative exchange during its 2011 IntraCity Visit, UNSUNG ASHEVILLE, on Thursday, September 15 and Friday, September 16.

Traditionally, the Asheville Chamber conducts an InterCity Visit in which a delegation of local leaders in the public, private and non-profit sectors travel to other communities to glean insight on best practices and program ideas. Innovative ideas introduced during the visit may then be adapted and implemented in the Asheville area. In light of the economic climate and to engage a broader cross-section of the community, this year’s delegation will peer into its own backyard. The participants in the 2011 IntraCity Visit, UNSUNG ASHEVILLE, will engage in an extensive two-day exploration of some of the under-the-radar assets in the Asheville community.

The two-day agenda includes a variety of tours, experiences and discussions that will foster cross-sector relationships within our community and lead to the development of new economic strategies and tactics. “We want UNSUNG ASHEVILLE to be a catalyst for leveraging the assets already in our community that can be economic drivers for our region’s future,” said Chamber President & CEO Kit Cramer. The community delegation will gain a new awareness on topics ranging from entrepreneurial endeavors, to science and technology industries, to affordable housing initiatives, to arts incubation.

UNSUNG ASHEVILLE is open to the public and registration closes Monday, September 12. Cost is $198.97 for Chamber members and $400 for non-members and is inclusive of transportation during the program, two breakfasts, two lunches, one dinner, two receptions and materials. Asheville Regional Airport is the presenting sponsor. Those interested in more information about the two-day itinerary and registration may visit the Chamber's website at AshevilleChamber.org, or contact Vice President of Public Policy Laura Copeland at lcopeland@ashevillechamber.org or (828) 258-6126.

The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce is a 2,000 member organization representing 86,000 employees. Chamber members collaborate with community organizations and coalitions to support the community and each other with the mission of increasing the region’s livability by advancing its economic vitality. The Asheville Chamber works diligently to ensure that Asheville continues to prosper while also protecting the natural beauty of the area. In 2006, the Chamber moved to a new location and is home to a 4,000 square foot Visitor Center which welcomes 200,000 visitors per year.

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