Achievement:
Indulge Images, a top-tier Photo Booth rental provider, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Booth Mastermind Award (BMA’s) in Las Vegas. The BMA’s recognize excellence in the Photo Booth industry, honoring companies that exemplify creativity and customer satisfaction. Indulge Images, known for its innovative approach blending technology with personalized touches, has earned acclaim for its services at weddings, corporate events, parties, and brand activations. The award ceremony is taking place this week until February 24 at the South Point Hotel & Resort in Las Vegas. Indulge Images is celebrating its achievement alongside industry peers and visionaries. For more details about Indulge Images and its Photo Booth services, visit www.indulgeimages.com.
Happenings:
The Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains is hosting a 2024 Casino Night with Local Industry Partners on Thursday, February 22, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM at Cultivated Cocktails Distillery and Tavern in Asheville, NC. Attendees must purchase tickets. The ticket includes food, drinks, headshots, and chips for casino games such as poker, roulette, blackjack, and craps. The event promises an exciting evening of high-stakes fun, allowing participants to enjoy thrilling games with fake money, fantastic prizes, delicious eats, and a lively atmosphere—a perfect blend of business and pleasure for a memorable night. Learn more & get tickets.
Hire:
AdventHealth welcomes Dr. Sarah Kosten, PsyD, a fully accredited psychologist, to its team at AdventHealth Medical Group Psychiatry in Hendersonville, NC. Specializing in behavioral health care for children and adolescents, Dr. Kosten provides psychotherapy and comprehensive psychological evaluations. With an educational background from Emory University and the University of Indianapolis, and postdoctoral experience at the Medical University of South Carolina, Dr. Kosten is committed to whole-person care, aligning with AdventHealth’s philosophy. Her focus on reducing stigma surrounding behavioral health treatment and dedication to building trust with patients reflects her passion for personalized and compassionate care. Dr. Kosten is accepting new patients, offering an active interest in their well-being. To schedule an appointment, visit AdventHealthNC.com or call 828-684-1115.
Mike Lamb, who has been serving as the Interim Police Chief of Asheville since December 2023, has been appointed as the permanent Police Chief. With over 26 years of service to the Asheville community, Lamb has progressed through various roles, starting as a patrol officer and most recently being promoted to Deputy Chief in June 2023. City Manager Debra Campbell commended Chief Lamb for his exemplary leadership and commitment to community engagement, expressing confidence in the department’s ability to deliver professional police service under his continued leadership. Chief Lamb, expressing gratitude, stated his commitment to serving Asheville effectively, fostering safety, and contributing to the community’s prosperity. Read more from the City.
Opening:
Apotheca, the dispensary chain, continues its expansion in Asheville with the opening of its fifth storefront at 231 Biltmore Avenue, overlooking Tourists Stadium. CEO Lee VanTine highlights Asheville’s significance, currently hosting more Apotheca stores than any other city. The brand, known for trustworthiness, exceptional service, and diverse product offerings, operates 33 stores, with upcoming locations in the South Slope and a rumored spot in Hendersonville. The expansion includes successful establishments in Tennessee and Atlanta, contributing to Apotheca’s distinct presence in the cannabis market. The upcoming Waynesville location will feature an industrial kitchen for edible production. Apotheca’s federally legal products, complying with the 2018 Farm Bill, offer potent and effective options backed by third-party testing. The brand’s success centers on changing lives through wellness, resonating with both customers and employees. For more information, contact Bart Benne at 828-575-7516 or visit www.apotheca.org.
Opportunity:
Smokies Life, formerly Great Smoky Mountains Association, is embarking on a national search for its next Chief Executive Officer following the retirement announcement of current CEO Laurel Rematore. Renowned for her innovative leadership and contributions to the Public Lands Alliance, Rematore leaves a legacy of inclusive team culture and collaborative partnerships within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The organization, a nonprofit partner of the park, has enlisted the services of national strategy and search firm Potrero Group to facilitate the search for a strategic and transformative leader. The incoming CEO is expected to sustain the organization’s success in interpretive retail, publishing, and partnerships. Interested candidates can apply on the Potrero Group website by March 17, 2024. Smokies Life, established in 1953, has contributed over $50 million in direct aid to the park, supporting various programs and initiatives. For more information, visit smokieslife.org.
Promotion:
IFB Solutions, the nation’s largest employer of people who are blind or visually impaired, has promoted Grant Weathers to the position of Low Vision Services Manager for its Community Low Vision Centers in Asheville and Winston-Salem. Weathers, who previously served as the Low Vision Services and Outreach Coordinator at IFB’s Asheville facility, will now oversee operations and outreach efforts for both centers. With over 10 years of experience in IFB, Weathers, who lost his vision in 2007, brings a unique perspective to his role. His promotion coincided with Low Vision Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of addressing visual impairments and showcasing assistive devices. Based in Asheville, IFB Solutions manufactures various products and employs over 137 individuals, half of whom are blind or visually impaired.