Livability: Asheville, NC 2014

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NORTH CAROLINA

ASHEVILLE
livability.com/asheville

TUNE TOWN BUSIER tHaN EVER
Asheville’s senior citizens stay active

Asheville is the place to rock to all types of music

Thrill seekers and relaxation hunters find a home here

Dare to Explore

2014 | SPONSORED BY THE ASHEVILLE AREa CHaMBER OF COMMERcE

Top 10

Places to Start a Fall Foliage Tour

ALBANY NY LANCASTER OH WAUSAU WI DULUTH MN AsheVille NC DECATUR AL GLASGOW KY TORRINGTON CT BLOOMINGTON IN CASTLE ROCK CO

Asheville made the list.

Top 10 Places to Start a Fall Foliage Tour
See more Top 10 lists at Livability.com.

Introducing the Livability.com Top 10 Lists New lists every month | Not your average lists | Not your average website

CONTENTS

4 Welcome to Asheville
An introduction to the community

Things to Do
80 Shopping Small Stores, Big Selection
Shopping scene has mix of big-box stores, small shops

2 Music 1 Tune Town
Asheville is the place to rock to all types of music

NORTH CAROLINA

ASHEVILLE
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2014 EdItIoN

VoLUmE 12

15 Local Flavor Savor the Flavor 18 Arts & Culture Creativity Finds a Home 0 Sports & Recreation 2 Dare to Explore



Living
Asheville’s senior citizens stay active

26 Retirement Communities Busier Than Ever


31 Education Lifelong Learning 35 Health Multiple Choices

37 Community Profile


Business

42

40 Business Overview
42 Working Here High-Flying Businesses
Asheville, is home to unique, compelling, fast- growing business ventures

47 Chamber Report 49 Economic Profile

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On the Cover Zen Tubing on the French Broad River in Asheville Staff Photo by Brian McCord


PLeAse RecYcLe tHIs MAGAZIne



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YoU cAN tAKE It WItH yoU
ASHEVILLE
eville livability.com/ash

LINA NORTH CARO

WN TUNE TO the place to BUSIER THAN EVER
or Asheville’s seni e citizens stay activ

Asheville is s of tunes rock to all type

and sports Thrill seekers home here a enthusiasts find
ERCE BER OF COMM ILLE AREA CHAM BY THE ASHEV

Dare to Explore

SORED 2014 | SPON

ENJoy
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ONLINE | livability.com/asheville
Arts & Culture Index
MORE ON aSHEVILLE Go to the links below for more articles and photos about Asheville’s business climate, recreation, food, schools, health care, culture and more. TOP EMPLOYERS livability.com/asheville/nc/ business DEMOGRAPHICS livability.com/asheville/nc/ facts SCHOOLS livability.com/asheville/nc/ schools HEALTH CARE livability.com/asheville/nc/ health NEIGHBORHOODS livability.com/asheville/nc/ living ATTRACTIONS livability.com/asheville/nc/ attractions FOOD livability.com/asheville/nc/ food Get the scoop on Asheville’s thriving River Arts District, which is home to galleries and hip restaurants, at livability.com/asheville/ nc/attractions/river-arts-district-asheville-nc.



Shopping

Photos & Video

EXPLORE THE LITERARY SCENE Learn about local bookstores at livability.com/asheville/nc/ attractions/independentbookstores-asheville-nc.

SEE THE CITY Check out more great images of Asheville’s top attractions and destinations at livability.com/ asheville/nc/photos-video.

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L I Va B I L I t Y. c O M /a S H E V I L L E



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At A GLAnce

Asheville, North Carolina
A QUIcK, cOMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF WHat’S gREat aBOUt tHE cOMMUNItY
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Inspiration comes easily in Asheville. It’s around every corner in the city’s eclectic downtown. It’s in the Blue Ridge Mountains that offer breathtaking views and rewarding hikes. It’s in the people who live, work and play in this city where creatives thrive. LUscIoUs LIVInG Residents of Asheville enjoy the full beauty of all four seasons. The city’s blossoming culinary scene includes many restaurants that offer locally produced vegetables and meats. Asheville is the world’s only Foodtopian Society, where daily life is centered around eating. It has 12 farmers markets, nearly 250 independent restaurants and has been crowned “Beer City, USA” four years in a row. There are more than 50 beers brewed and bottled here and five annual events that celebrate beer. On tap for adventure seekers are whitewater rafting trips, mountain biking, ziplines and horseback riding. The city’s park system includes greenways, athletic fields, playgrounds and pools. A multitude of spas, hotels and nightspots serve up plenty of ways to relax. BUsInesses FLoURIsH Asheville has emerged as a hotspot for innovation, technology and creativity. Business leaders find that the quality of life Asheville offers keeps their workers happy, healthy and more productive. Small businesses and entrepreneurs flourish in this environment, and it’s become a target for advanced manufacturing, science, health care and high-tech companies. Asheville was ranked as the sixth-best place to do business in the U.S. by Forbes in 2010. Asheville’s low unemployment rate, access to major transportation routes and incentives make it an attractive place to set up shop. You’ll see what makes Asheville a great place to live.

Asheville
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Hendersonville

Asheville

LocAtIon
Residents and tourists enjoy Asheville’s vibrant music and arts scene, world class restaurants and outdoor activities. It’s easy to see why Good Morning America named Asheville as one of the Most Beautiful Places in America.

POPULATION

85,712
DIstAnces to tHRee MAJoR cItIes neARbY
Charlotte, NC, 129 miles Atlanta, GA, 208 miles Lexington, KY, 284 miles

TIMe Zone
Eastern

AnnUAL RAInfALL

37”

National Average: 30”

FoR MoRe InfoRMAtIon

Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce
36 Montford Ave. Asheville, NC 28801 Phone: (828) 258-6101 Fax: (828) 251-0926 www.ashevillechamber.org

AccoLAdE
Asheville was named the “Happiest City in America” by the best-selling travelogue The Geography of Bliss.



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Looking Glass Falls, located a short drive from Asheville, is a popular tourist attraction and remains one of North Carolina’s only waterfalls to offer easy access from the road.

Admire the Natural Beauty





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THINgS To Do
Asheville’s must-do attractions, activities and dining

Spend Time in the Great Outdoors

Take a hike and learn why Asheville is dubbed the outdoor playground of the Southeast. Nestled in the 500,000-acre Pisgah National Forest, Asheville is home to hundreds of beautiful hiking trails, giving nature lovers plenty to enjoy and explore. The area is also perfect for camping, biking and other outdoor activities.

Swimming

Craft Breweries

Restaurants

Art Galleries & Studios

DIVe In
Beat the summer heat by taking a dip in one of the five outdoor swimming pools conveniently located throughout Buncombe County, including Asheville’s Erwin Community Pool, or cool off indoors at the Zeugner Center pool.

DRInK Up
Enjoy some of the area’s finest beers from the 12 craft breweries in Asheville, aka Beer City, USA. On any given day there are more than 50 local brews on draft or in bottles, and many beer makers even serve up special, small-batch brews on certain nights.

EAt OUt
Fall in love with the many flavorful food options in Asheville. Designated as a “foodtopia,” this city has dozens of great restaurants that include outdoor dining areas, such as Tod’s Tasties & To Go’s, Pizza Pura and Isa’s Bistro.

CHecK OUt ARt
Explore the galleries downtown, or participate in the River Arts District’s Studio Strolls. The district, situated along the French Broad River, is home to more than 165 artists, whose studios are scattered throughout 19 turn-of-the-20th-century industrial buildings.



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THInGs To Do

Root for the Home Team

Experience America’s favorite pastime by catching a home game with the Asheville Tourists, the city’s very own minor league baseball team, a Colorado Rockies affiliate.

Live Performances

Churches

Volunteer Opportunities

Sports Leagues

See A SHoW
Book a seat at the Asheville Community Theatre to catch shows on the main stage, or for more intimate shows, visit 35Below, their black box performance space. Also, catch the Montford Park Players as they perform Shakespeare in the park each year.

VIsIt A CHURcH
Find your spiritual connection at more than 160 places of worship, which represent 30-plus denominations. And be sure to visit one of the town’s many beautiful, historic churches such as First Baptist Church in downtown Asheville.

GIVe BAcK
Lend a helping hand by volunteering at Hands On Asheville-Buncombe, the volunteer center of United Way. The center helps individuals and groups find opportunities to serve nonprofit organizations throughout the area.

JoIn tHe TeAM
Join a league and see why Asheville is the recreation destination for family fun. There are a variety of youth and adult sports leagues available, ranging from baseball, football and soccer to bowling, skiing and inline hockey.





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THInGs To Do

Shop for Handmade Items
Small eclectic shops throughout Asheville carry handcrafted art, jewelry, home decour and gifts.



Staff Photos by BRIAn McCoRd

Small Stores,

BIG SeLectIon
ShOpping scene has miX Of big-bOX stOres, small shOps

by KRIstI StepHens WALKeR

I

n Asheville, you’ll find all the tried and true retailers like Dillard’s, Old Navy, JCPenney and Gymboree. But also nestled in this Western North Carolina community is a plethora of eclectic shops selling unique gifts, artwork, toys and furniture.
AsHeVILLe SUppoRts And VALUes SMALL BUsInesses Tops for Shoes has been a downtown staple since 1960. Owner Bob Carr says his staff – many of whom have been at the store for 15 to 30 years – can find a shoe for anyone. “Selection,” says Carr of how the store meets customers’ needs, “but also good service. We still believe in sitting down with the customer and fitting shoes. We can accommodate almost anybody.” Another Asheville original is Dancing Bear Toys. Co-owner Sarah Evers, who bought the store with her sister, Erika, and was then joined by her parents, Mary and Dave, says the store is an interactive place, including a demo toy bar. “We invite families,” Evers says. “We want parents to try before they buy.” Evers believes Asheville is committed to supporting businesses like hers. “I think Asheville really means it when they want to support local business. They really do support small businesses.”





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Old Becomes New Again

Foundry offers jewelry, gifts, art and more, all of which are created from reclaimed materials. The shop has been featured in GreenCraft Magazine, and was voted one of Asheville’s best gift shops in 2011 and 2012.



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LARGe-scALe AntIQUes BRInG SHoppeRs to AsHeVILLe Several destinations offer miles of shopping with home décor, jewelry, galleries and specialty shops. Historic Biltmore Village draws many visitors and newcomers with retailers and restaurants in a unique shopping environment. Antique Tobacco Barn has more than 75 dealers offering furniture, stemware, clocks and all manner of distinctive antiques. ScreenDoor includes home and garden accessories and a bookstore with various home, garden, cooking and children’s titles. One-of-A-KInd SHops FeAtURe HAndMAde CRAfts, ARts And CLotHes Foundry features “urban, upcycled and unusual” wares. Opened three years ago by partners Shelly Piper and Natalie Hood, Foundry is the result of the pair’s creative approach to crafting something new out of something used and discarded.

“People don’t really need more stuff in their lives,” Piper says. “What if the stuff was made out of other stuff?” Her take on the Asheville shopping scene reflects the city’s reputation for distinctive findings. “It’s sort of like you’ll never see the same thing twice,” Piper says. “A lot of what people buy is one of a kind.” Garage 34 highlights numerous handcrafted art pieces, including the just-launched Hitched Handmade collection featuring vintage-modern, stylish wedding accessories of all kinds. Items from the store were included in a recent photo shoot that appeared on the website for Poptastic Bride. Inside Garage 34 are at least seven nonprofit businesses associated with Elevate Life and Art. The collective of people passionate about their skills and professions offers classes in everything from art to dance in the space of the store. The nonprofit/for-profit merger assists Elevate Life and Art with rent costs while featuring handmade goods.

“I think Asheville really means it when they want to support local business. They really do support small businesses.”
SaRaH EVeRs, CO-OWNeR OF DaNCING BeaR TOYs

THINGS TO

DO

Garage 34 Items , located in downtown Asheville, includes handcrafte jewelry, home d art, decor and also features gifts, and in-store art classes.

Shop for Handm

ade

Small Stores ,
SELECTION
n Asheville, you’ll find all retailers like the tried and Dillard’s, Old true and Gymbo Navy, JCPenn ey western North ree. But also nestled in this Carolina commu of eclectic shops nity is a plethora toys and furnitur selling unique gifts, artwork, e.
ASHEVILLE SUPPORTS AND VALUES Tops for Shoes SMALL BUSINESS has been Owner Bob ES Carr says his a downtown staple since the store for staff – many 1960. 15 to of whom have been at “Selection,” 30 years – can find a shoe says Carr of needs, “but how the store for anyone. also good service. meets with the customer We still believe customers’ in sitting almost anybody.” and fitting shoes. We can accommod down Another Asheville ate original is Dancing Sarah Evers, who was then joined bought the store with Bear Toys. Co-owner is an interactive by her parents, Mary her sister, Erika, and and Dave, says place, including the store “We invite a demo toy families,” Evers before they says. “We wantbar. buy.” parents to try Evers believes Asheville is businesses committed like hers. “I to supporting think they want to support local Asheville really means small businesses business. They it when really do support .”

BIG
by KRISTI

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SHOPPING SCEN E HAS BIG-BOX STOR MIX OF ES, SMALL SHOPS

STEPHENS WALKER

Staff Photos

by BRIAN MCCORD

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dIGItAL MAGAZIne
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Downtown Asheville’s Tops for Shoes serves a six-state region and carries more than 100,000 pairs of shoes.





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THInGs To Do

Tune Town
by CHRIs RUsseLL

Asheville is the place tO rOcK tO all tYpes Of mUsic

I

n Asheville, the music scene is in full swing and the crowd is primed. “Asheville has grown exponentially, and much of this is due to the public’s overwhelming support of it as an arts destination,” says Laura Blackley, a musician who has lived in Asheville since 1996, and hosts/produces two radio shows that spotlight local and regional music talent.
engineer John Ashley, who adds that location is another part of Echo Mountain’s appeal. “The studio is near downtown, which has a lot of breweries and restaurants near it.” The studio counts Zac Brown Band, Band of Horses and the Smashing Pumpkins among its more than 130 clients. LIVe MUsIc Great music does more than just create a great atmosphere. The right tunes can take you to another place entirely and put you into the proverbial zone. Asheville’s live music venues do that with the best of them. Every weekend music lovers venture out to find a spectrum of artists playing across town. Downtown street musicians serenade passersby and the popular drum circle gets

“There is a certain, dare I say, spirituality about making one’s living as an artist. The Asheville scene reflects that, and as a general rule supports it,” she says. MAKe YoUR OWn MUsIc Echo Mountain Recording Studio strikes the perfect chord for its clients by balancing work and relaxation. Within the studio, two rooms feature top-quality audio and video equipment to help artists achieve their creative best. When the workday is done, two nearby four-bedroom houses let the performers unwind in relaxed country settings. “The space is beautiful, the people are friendly and our gear is really good. You can just stay in Asheville and hang out. It’s a real tourist destination,” says studio


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Downtown Asheville’s Echo Mountain Recording Studio helps clients record music and create videos in a laid-back atmosphere.





Staff Photo by BRIAn McCoRd

“The positives of living here in the jewel of western North Carolina, making sweet music against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains ... it’s a pretty wonderful way to live.”
LAURA BLAcKLeY, MUsIcIAn

people moving to the beat on warm, clear evenings. Highland Brewing, Pack’s Tavern and Lexington Avenue Brewing are just a few spots featuring live music along with local craft beers. The old-time and bluegrass genres that form the region’s musical roots live on at weekly jam sessions like those held at Jake of the Wood. Everyone is invited to bring their instrument, help make a little music, or just come down and listen in. The Orange Peel has been called one of the best live music venues in the country, and has been featured in several prominent publications, such as USA Today and Rolling Stone. Expanded in late 2009 to host 1,100 people including standing room, the club is home to PULP, a 75-person private club with a funky, retro atmosphere. The Orange Peel can also host a variety of special occasions. ISIS Restaurant & Music Hall mixes the best in dining and performance to make a memorable experience for guests. Menus feature seasonal products (for brunch, meals or late-night eating indoors or on the patio) served by a friendly and enthusiastic staff. That’s just the start of an evening that can include anyone from local performers to nationally recognized acts. IamAVL.com offers a peek at the vibrant music culture that exists in Asheville. IamAVL (Independent Arts and Music of Asheville) expands the reach of Asheville’s creative community with episodic audio and video content of what’s happening in clubs, studios and on the streets. “The positives of living here in the jewel of Western North Carolina, making sweet music against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains ... it’s a pretty wonderful way to live,” Blackley says.

The mixing board in the API Studio at Echo Mountain Recording, a facility which blends vintage and state of the art equipment to create the optimum studio experience.

Find more local attractions and activities at livability.com/asheville/ nc/things-to-do.



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THInGs To Do: Local FlaVor

Savor the Flavor

ASHEVILLE REStaURaNtS BRINg LOcaL aND INtERNatIONaL FOODS tO aREa Home to hundreds of independent restaurants, Asheville has garnered attention from locals and visitors alike for its diverse flavor choices. Area restaurants, featuring everything from barbecue to Indian food, offer samplings of a slice of life as varied and original as Asheville itself.
Sweets and Treats

IndULGe A LIttLe
Dessert lovers will find an array of delectable offerings to satisfy a sweet tooth, including coconut cake at The Blackbird Restaurant and the beer-a misu (a twist on tiramisu) at Chestnut Restaurant. Other sweet treats are served at French Broad Chocolate Lounge and Ultimate Ice Cream. For a mix of sweet and savory try the new King Daddy’s, which serves chicken and waffles. Barbecue

TAste tHe LocAL ‘cUe
A number of barbecue places serve the main dish and fixings: Little Pigs BBQ (celebrating 50 years in business), Okie Dokie Smokehouse, Moe’s Original BBQ and Luella’s Bar-B-Que. Events

EnJoY RestAURAnt WeeK
Food lovers can taste local dishes and delicious creations during Asheville Restaurant Week, which takes place annually in January. A prix fixe menu, ranging from $15-$30 per person, is offered by participating restaurants.

Try Foreign Fare

For an international flavor, foodies can check out Indian cuisine at Chai Pani and Mela (pictured), Moroccan food at Jerusalem Garden, authentic Japanese at Green Tea Sushi and Caribbean-inspired cuisine at Nine Mile.



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Featuring farm-to-table cuisine, Early Girl Eatery serves breakfast all day.

Drawing breakfast lovers, Early Girl Eatery, Well-Bred Bakery and Cafe in Weaverville, Sunny Point Café (pictured), City Bakery, Moose Café and Biscuit Head offer staples such as eggs, pancakes, ham and biscuits, bread and pastries, and fresh fruit.

Start Your Day Off Right



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Eating In

WHAt’S cooKINg
SQUaSH CROQUEttES
Asheville is full of farm-to-table restaurants where diners can sink their teeth into dishes prepared with ingredients pulled from the ground sometimes hours earlier. With approximately a dozen regional farmers markets, aspiring chefs can easily bring the farm-to-table movement home.
INgREDIENtS • 2 cups yellow squash, finely chopped • 1 cup onion, finely chopped • 1 egg, beaten • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon pepper • ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour • vegetable oil INStRUctIONS 1. In a large bowl, combine squash, onion, egg, salt and pepper. Mix well. Stir in flour. 2. In a skillet, heat ½-inch oil over medium-high heat. 3. D  rop batter by tablespoonfuls into oil. 4. Cook about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. 5. D  rain croquettes on paper towels.
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Recipe courtesy of FarmFlavor.com

THInGs To Do: arts & culture

Creativity Finds a Home

ASHEVILLE’S attRactIONS aND EVENtS DRaW IN BIg cROWDS Asheville’s arts and culture scene continues to grow as more artists, crafters and musicians settle here. The city’s arts districts, museums and festivals stimulate the senses and inspire creativity.

Get lost in thousands of acres of Asheville’s beauty at the popular Biltmore Estate, built by George Vanderbilt and completed in 1895. Wander through the Biltmore’s gardens, sample some fine wine and take in a concert, all while surrounded by Asheville’s majestic mountains.

Explore One of Asheville’s Must-See Attractions

Events

EnJoY AnnUAL festIVALs And ceLebRAtIons
Throughout the year, there are exciting events for all ages. Explore Asheville’s beautiful downtown district and kick off a summer of fun with live music and great local cuisine during the Downtown After Five street festival beginning each May. Dive deep into Southern Appalachian heritage through music and dance at the celebrated Shindig on the Green festival every summer. Visit the Asheville Greek Festival in the fall for traditional Greek folk dancing, cooking classes and music – we bet you’ll have so much fun you’ll be saying “Opa!” in no time.


Tired of the traditional music festival scene? Head over to the annual Moogfest, a celebration of inventor Bob Moog and his contribution to the electronic music genre through his Moog Synthesiser. Just can’t get enough of the music in Asheville? Make your way over to the Montford Music and Arts Festival, the largest one-day music festival in western North Carolina. Twice a year the very best of music, art and culture join together to strengthen the community at the Lake Eden Arts Festival (LEAF). Get crafty at one of Asheville’s many art festivals including the, The Big Crafty and the Village Art and Craft Fair.

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Classes

UnLeAsH YoUR cReAtIVItY
In Asheville you are surrounded by arts and culture so why stay on the sidelines? Tap into your own creativity through classes and workshops led by expert teachers and award-winning artists. Asheville Community Theatre offers drama classes for youth and adults. Try your hand at mixed media, printmaking or photography with the Asheville Art Museum. Explore functional and sculptural pottery at Odyssey Ceramic Arts. Attractions

CHecK oUt AsHeVILLe’s UnIQUe destInAtIons
Shop till you drop and chow down at the historic Grove Arcade. For more fun, head downtown to Pack Square Park and visit the Pack Place Education, Arts & Science Center, which includes the Asheville Art Museum.

Sit back and relax with an ice-cold beer on a brewery tour from groups like the Asheville Brews Cruise. Participants enjoy several samples and learn about the brewing process at each stop along the tour.

Grab a Beer on the Brews Cruise

The Perfect Venue for … Romantic Weekend Retreats Weddings Corporate Events
The Farm cabins look rustic from the outside, but have comfort and charm on the inside. The Farm cottages have been meticulously renovated, but still maintain the warm bungalow feel. The Farm cabins and cottages can be used for romantic weekends, retreats, family reunions, or to host guests who are attending an event at The Farm. We are conveniently situated 10 miles west of downtown Asheville. Please visit our other properties at www.eaglecrestlodge.com and www.thefarmevents.com.

www.thefarmcabins.com.
215 Justice Ridge Rd., Candler, NC 28715

Call us at 828-667-0666 or book online at





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THInGs To Do: sports & recreation

Dare to Explore

THRILL SEEKERS aND RELaxatION HUNtERS FIND a HOME IN ASHEVILLE Asheville residents enjoy being active by taking advantage of the city’s parks and recreational outlets. The area’s natural beauty – including mountain streams and rolling hills – and its moderate climate draw locals outdoors.

“During a weekend on the Blue Ridge (Parkway) we decided to take a quick drive up Mt. Mitchell. What a great decision. The views from the observation deck are wonderful.”
YeLp ReVIeWeR AVeRY Z CHIpKA, fRoM DURHAM, NC, ON MOUNt MItCHeLL State PaRK

Sporting Events

PARtIcIpAte oR spectAte
Drawing health and adventure enthusiasts, the Mountain Sports Festival takes place every summer. This three-day celebration of all things active in Asheville is packed with fun for the whole family, including demonstrations, trail runs and tournaments. Asheville is also a top host city for sports tournaments including the 2014 Southern Conference Basketball Tournament. Golf Courses

TAKe A sWInG
Don’t miss your tee time at one of Asheville’s many golf courses, like the Crowne Plaza Resort , Biltmore Forest Country Club and The Cliffs at Walnut Cove. The city is also home to an 18-hole course at the Omni Grove Park Inn, which has hosted PGA Tour events. Asheville Municipal Golf Course and The Cliffs at High Carolina, designed by Tiger Woods, round out the area’s golf options.

Jump in and Make a Splash

There are two ways to enjoy Asheville’s rivers and streams. For those looking to relax, try an afternoon of lazy river tubing with Zen Tubing. Want more action? Turn up the excitement and join a whitewater rafting crew on the French Broad River or kayak solo down the rapids.



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Parks, Greenways and Rec Centers

EnJoY tHe MoUntAIn AIR
Stroll down the Buncombe County Greenways and the French Broad River Greenway, which links three parks: Hominy Creek, Carrier and French Broad River. Nearby, Bent Creek offers bike trails and is a favorite destination for the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club, and Mount Mitchell State Park draws hikers. Featuring more than 400 acres of gardens, the North Carolina Arboretum also offers hiking, as well as family-friendly playgrounds and athletic fields. Harvest House Recreation Center and the Montford Complex provide even more opportunities to get active. Ready to get moving? Check out more fun things to do in Asheville at livability.com/asheville/ nc/activities.

Go for a Joy Ride

See Asheville from the treetops on a zipline tour with Navitat Canopy Adventures, Asheville Treetops Adventure Park or Adventure America Zipline Canopy Tours. First-timers and experienced adventurers alike get a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful North Carolina mountains while having a lot of fun.

THInGs to do: see the city



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The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, thanks to its many restaurants and bars, theaters and entertainment destinations, and live music venues. Asheville also features a well-known drum circle that takes place every Friday night in downtown’s Pritchard Park, and it’s free and open to the public.
Staff Photo by Brian McCOrd

Asheville Lights Up at Night

Discover more photos of Asheville at livability.com/asheville/nc/photos-video.





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LIVINg
Schools, health care and neighborhoods in Asheville



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Keeping an Eye on the Community
A patient at Envision Eyecare is fitted for contacts. Asheville offers a diverse assortment of health care options from traditional to Eastern and homeopathic services.
Staff Photo by BRIAn McCoRd

Check out more photos that showcase living in Asheville at livability.com/asheville/nc/ photos-video.





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LIVInG

Ever
Asheville’s seniOr citizens staY active

Busier THAN
by Joe MoRRIs

T

hanks to community centers, an institute dedicated to lifelong learning and a roster of senior residential communities, Asheville is the place to be for retirees.
OsHeR LIfeLonG LeARnInG InstItUte One prime spot is the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on the University of North Carolina-Asheville campus. The former North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement has been around since 1988 and is the go-to place for classes, seminars, concerts and much more. “We have more than 280 classes, and almost all of our instructors are volunteers,” says Catherine Frank, executive director. “We have about 2,000 members. This isn’t a place where you just come and listen to someone talking in the front of the room, but a place where you can start a conversation with other people in the class.” Members pay a $60 annual fee, which gives them access to 20-plus special interest groups, as well as the opportunity to attend classes and lectures. They also can take advantage of special events including programs with the Asheville Symphony Orchestra and the Astronomy Club of Asheville. There’s also a weekly newsletter and many other benefits.



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DeeRfIeLd RetIReMent CoMMUnItY: SANDRA STAMBAUGH

Retirees Remain on the Move

At Deerfield Retirement Community, retirees enjoy exercise, arts and crafts, educational programs, social events and more. The community offers independent living, assisted living and a skilled nursing wing for residents who require more intensive care.





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Deerfield Retirement Community’s residents enjoy gourmet meals.

QUALItY of LIfe “We are a top retirement destination for many reasons,” says Carolyn Ashworth, director of marketing at Deerfield, one of Asheville’s many retirement communities. “Asheville is beautiful, and has so much in the way of arts and cultural diversity, along with excellent health care. We have all the things you’d find in a bigger city, but have kept that small-town feel.” AsHeVILLe SenIoR PRoGRAMs In addition to privately owned arts and entertainment venues, the city itself offers many amenities to seniors, including programming through the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department. There’s always something going on at Harvest House in east Asheville’s Kenilworth neighborhood, and the downtown Senior Opportunity Center, says Lee Dansby, director of Harvest House. “Both are year-round facilities,” Dansby says. “We have meal services at the Senior Opportunity Center, and it also offers several programs and activities. Harvest House is more of a community center, and

“Asheville is beautiful, and has so much in the way of arts and cultural diversity, along with excellent health care.”
CARoLYn AsHWoRtH, DIReCtOR OF MaRKetING DeeRFIeLd COmmUNItY

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNC-Asheville offers more than 280 classes.

we focus more on activities. Between the two, we are able to cover many different needs that our retirees have.” Harvest House offers balance and flex classes, a book club, wood shop, pottery studio and more. “We’re a very vibrant place,” Dansby says. “We have people who come in twice a month, and others who are here every day. We have a lot of people who come by when they are visiting from out of town and thinking about moving here, and also get a lot of visits from people who are looking to help a parent relocate to the area. People find a lot of ways to plug into this incredible town, and we are one way of helping them do that.”



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The Golden Years

ASHEVILLE REtIREMENt cOMMUNItIES OFFER PLENtY OF cHOIcES No matter what your preference in terms of housing style or amenities, Asheville offers a retirement community for all.
DeeRfIeLd, AsHeVILLe
With a full continuum of care from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing, Deerfield suits your needs. Residents have access to a wellness and fitness center, lap and warm-water therapy pools, wood shop, pottery studio and a community room.

TRInItY VIeW RetIReMent CoMMUnItY, ARden
Trinity View offers independent and assisted living. Amenities include a beautician/barber, meal service and an on-site clinic.

GIVens EstAtes, AsHeVILLe
Givens Estates has 86 cottages, 40 duplexes, 82 villas and 192 main building apartments, along with 78 HUD-assisted apartments, 47 assisted-living beds and an 84-bed health-care center. Activities range from vespers and Bible study to shopping trips, concerts and clubs.

BeLLA VIstA, AsHeVILLe
Bella Vista has residential options ranging from independent living to secure memory care. Apartments include one- and twobedroom units with kitchenettes and studios. Among features offered are a barber/beauty shop; TV room; exercise, craft and card rooms; library; theater; and chapel.

ARdenWoods, ARden
Ardenwoods has 95 apartment homes that create a close-knit community. Retirees enjoy a fitness center and pool, clubhouse, library and computer room, craft area, and a pottery studio.

LeGAcY At MILLs RIVeR
The environmentally friendly homes at the Legacy at Mills River offer maintenance-free retirement living. Seventeen private, assistedliving suites are also available, plus 90 rooms for nursing care.

Raising the achievement of all students – one child at a time.

ASHEVILLE
CITY SCHOOLS

LIVING: Education

Lifelong Learning

PaRENtS, StUDENtS HaVE DOZENS OF EDUcatION cHOIcES Know-how is abundant in Asheville, with good options for public schools, private schools and higher education institutions.
Day Care Centers and Preschools

QUALItY CHILd CARe
For parents who need day care service, Asheville has more than 20 facilities. They include A-B Tech Early Education Center, Asheville Jewish Community Center, Asheville City Schools Preschool, Mountain Area Child and Family Center, YWCA of Asheville, Swannanoa Valley Montessori School, Eliada Child Development Center and Fairview Preschool. Private Schools

FAItH-bAsed And coLLeGe-pRep scHooLs
Private schools offering a faith-based curriculum include Asheville Christian Academy, Emmanuel Lutheran and Providence Christian Academy. Christ School is a boarding school for more than 245 boys in grades 8-12. The oldest private school in the region is Asheville School, established in 1900. Today it has 270 coed students in grades 9-12. Other private school alternatives include holistic education at Rainbow Community School. New Classical Academy and The Learning Community School feature experiential learning and multi-age classrooms.

Art-Based Learning

Claxton Elementary School, part of Asheville City Schools, is one of the district’s five magnet schools. Claxton provides an arts and humanities based education.





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University of North Carolina-Asheville is a public, four-year institution with an undergraduate enrollment of about 37,000 students. The university offers 30 different majors, small class sizes and opportunities for internships, research projects and more. Higher Education

Education Meets Opportunity

CoLLeGes And UnIVeRsItIes
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College provides 150-plus curriculums of study, including continuing education classes for personal and professional enrichment. Montreat College offers a Christian-based environment with undergraduate and graduate degree programs, while Warren Wilson College is a private, four-year liberal arts college. Mars Hill College is a private, liberal arts institution, and South College-Asheville remains a private, two-year institution. Lenoir-Rhyne University Center for Graduate Studies of Asheville and Western Carolina Universty enable students to earn graduate degrees.


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Public Schools

AsHeVILLe CItY ScHooLs And BUncoMbe CoUntY ScHooLs
Asheville City Schools celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2012-13 and has a total enrollment of 4,150 students. ACS has two high schools, one middle school, one alternative school, five elementary magnet schools and one preschool facility. Buncombe County Schools is the 11th largest school system in North Carolina, with 25,500 students at 42 schools. BCS has 4,000 employees. Buncombe County Early College (BCEC) redefines teaching and learning by offering interdisciplinary courses, project-based learning and a focus on college readiness.

“UNCA is a wonderful place. The environment is friendly and conducive to learning and the people are great. Attending this school will give you as many opportunities to learn outside the classroom as it does in the classroom.”
RAcHeL fRoM RoARInG RIVeR, NC ON UNIVeRsItY OF NORtH CaROLINa-AsHeVILLe

Down-to-earth dentistry with an emphasis on compassionate, patient-centered care.
HOURS Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
New Patients Are Always Welcome

Kevin Fox, DDS, PA Barbara Ford, DDS
Focus of Snoring and Sleep Apnea Dental Devices

Mark Armistead, DMD

Russian and Spanish speaking team members
2 Iris St. • Asheville, NC 28803 (behind Biltmore Village)

(828) 252-2791 www.foxdentalassociates.com



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LIVING: Health

Multiple Choices

RESIDENtS HaVE WEStERN MEDIcINE aND HOMEOPatHIc OPtIONS

Holistic Health Thrives in Asheville

Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts offers a four-year master’s degree in acupuncture and Oriental medicine. The college also operates the Daoist Traditions College Acupuncture Clinic.

SNApSHot

Daoist Traditions College of ted in Chinese Medical Arts is loca rict. Dist oric Hist Area d tfor Mon the

Asheville residents indulge in a bounty of healthy lifestyle options, from farm-fresh foods to outdoor recreation and spas offering relaxation. They also have an abundance of health-care options. A good combination of Western medicine providers as well as homeopathic and alternative care choices are available, and many residents combine traditional and homeopathic cures in their quest for optimum wellness.

Also within the city limits is Charles George VA Medical Center, with more than 1,000 employees who provide health-care services to veterans in Western North Carolina, upstate South Carolina and Georgia, and eastern Tennessee. The facility offers a number of medical services to treat various ailments, along with issues pertaining to mental health, military exposures, spinal cord injuries, rehabilitation and women’s health.

TRAdItIonAL MedIcIne
Mission Health System is the top employer in Asheville, and its Mission Hospital is licensed for 800 beds. The health system employs 6,500 people, including 1,800 RNs, along with physicians in more than 50 specialties.


SpecIALIZed CARe
Another medical option for Asheville residents is CarePartners, which was founded in 1938 and provides rehabilitation, home health, adult care and hospice services for patients throughout Western North Carolina.
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ALteRnAtIVe HeALInG
Homeopathic medicine is being introduced more into the American conscience, and students interested in pursuing such a career path can enroll at the Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts. The college teaches a philosophy of mankind living in harmony with the seasons and following the principles of nature as a model for the ideal life. Daoist Traditions College students learn all aspects of Oriental medicine, including acupuncture. Speaking of acupuncture, Acupuncture Wellness Center is open in Asheville as a way to help patients cut back on their pain level as well as medication amounts. Chad Johnson provides acupuncture treatments and gives dietary recommendations to help with any side effects related to pain medications.

OtHeR PLAces of Zen
Additional holistic venues available to Asheville residents include OM Sanctuary, a holistic retreat where guests can enhance their lives through daily classes in yoga and other mind/body practices. Single or multi-day stays and retreats provide rest and rejuvenation. Also in Asheville are relaxation destinations such as Adelaide Spa, Shoji Retreats, Suraj Spa, Asheville Yoga Center and Grove Park Inn, which in 2013 was named one of the Top 20 Resort Spas in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler.

Located on a 54-acre campus, OM Sanctuary is a retreat center focusing on stress reduction, health and mindful living.

 by Kevin Litwin



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OM Sanctuary: taylor johnson

CommUNIty pRofILE
etHnIcItY
21% 31%   White   Black   Hispanic   Other

cost of LIVInG

$41,779
Median Household Income

$193,350
Median Home Price 48% 40% 51%

AGE
  19 and Under   20-54   55 and Over
(percentages based on Buncombe Co. population = 244,490)

$777
Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

3%

6%

(percentages based on Buncombe Co. population = 244,490)

TRAnspoRtAtIon
Median Travel Time to Work

TeMpeRAtURe
January Average Low July Average High

80° 76°

16 minutes

23°

31°

Closest Airport Asheville Regional Airport

January Low National Low

July High

National High

9 miles

THIs sectIon Is sponsoRed bY

bUSINESS
Info on Asheville’s top employers, jobs and success stories

Company Holds the Key to Success

Based in Asheville, Plasticard-Locktech International is the largest keycard manufacturer in the world. The company creates keycards for hotels, cruise lines, and special events and conferences, as well as loyalty cards for retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues.
Staff Photo by BRIAn McCoRd

Check out more photos that showcase living in Asheville at livability.com/asheville/nc/ photos-video.



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bUsIness: oVerView

Leadership Matters

REgION REtaINS StRONg BUSINESS cOMMUNItY Successful businesses are in good company throughout Asheville, with both large and small companies thriving.
Top Private Employers

MAJoR coMpAnIes And coRpoRAtIons
Asheville’s private companies with at least 1,000 employees include The Biltmore Co., which oversees the Biltmore Estate and its accompanying historical sites; Ingles Markets, with its food and beverage stores; and Eaton Corp., which manufactures electrical components and appliances. Companies in Asheville with 500-750 employees include Sitel, a provider of administrative and support services; Thermo Fisher Scientific, with involvement in machinery manufacturing; MB Haynes Corp., which specializes in constructing buildings; and Guthy Renker Fulfillment Services, with its focus on administrative and support services. Companies with 400-499 employees include Black Mountain Neuro-Medical Treatment Center, which provides nursing and residential care facilities; Kearfott Corp., a transportation and equipment manufacturer; and Wal-Mart Supercenter.

Health System Employs 3,000+

The largest private employer in Asheville is Mission Health System, with more than 3,000 employees at Mission Hospital.

Continue learning about Asheville’s top industries at livability.com/asheville/ nc/business.



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Business is Brewing
Highland Brewing Co., one of Asheville’s top small businesses, has a tasting room, offers tours and produces a variety of beers. St. Terese’s Pale Ale, Black Mocha Stout, and six seasonal selections are available.

Small Businesses

BIG sUccess foR sMALL coMpAnIes
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce estimates that about 90 percent of local companies are small businesses with 25 or fewer employees, such as AvL Technologies and BUILDERadius. AvL Technologies designs, develops and produces mobile antenna/positioner systems for orbiting satellites, while BUILDERadius serves the construction industry with numerous software packages.

Inspired service, inspired design. Our boutique hotel delivers a refreshing and inviting guest experience that is truly reflective of the local neighborhood. The hotel features 100 rooms, 16 penthouse suites, restaurant, bar, meeting room, fitness center, pet-friendly, along with first-class amenities – providing a sanctuary to unwind and simply relax after a day exploring our beautiful area and downtown Asheville. Hotel Indigo is so much more than a place to stay; it’s part of our neighborhood. Throughout the hotel you’ll find local touches, from the artwork on the walls to locally inspired dishes on our menu. Getting a taste of the neighborhood has never been easier! 151 Haywood St. • Asheville, NC 28801 • 828.239.0239 www.boutiquehotel-asheville.com

Transportation

AIRpoRt Is An Asset
Asheville Regional Airport leases space for corporate aircraft and provides nonstop passenger travel to nine destinations. Those cities are Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Newark, New York, Orlando and St. Petersburg. The airport is located near Interstates 26 and 40, and features an average of 180 takeoffs and landings a day. ARA serves air passengers in western North Carolina, as well as upstate South Carolina and Georgia, and eastern Tennessee.





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GE AViation: Jared Kay with Amplified Media

Businesses
by JAson ZAsKY

High-Flying
B
usinesses large and small, high-tech and high concept, are thriving – and expanding – in Asheville. At the forefront of the city’s economic growth movement is GE Aviation, which recently finalized plans to build a 125,000-square-foot advanced composite component factory. It will produce ceramic matrix composite materials for GE’s next generation jet aircraft engines.

Asheville is hOme tO UniQUe, cOmpelling, fast-grOwing bUsiness ventUres

“This is the first time we will mass produce a CMC component,” says Kelly Walsh of GE Aviation. The high-pressure turbine shroud, part of the best-selling LEAP engine, will enter service on Airbus, Boeing and COMAC planes in 2016. “It will be the first plant in the world to mass produce CMCs for jet propulsion,” she adds. The company chose to add capacity near an existing GE plant, in part because of the “proven track record” of the local workforce and the support of local economic development groups, which make Asheville “not only a great place to


work, but a great place to do business.” TE Connectivity, another global, publicly traded corporation, is also expanding its local manufacturing operations with a $1.68 million investment. The firm is enhancing its existing facility, which produces a variety of relays and electronic switches for the company’s Aerospace, Defense and Marine business unit. And STF Precision – a leading manufacturer of cutting tools for aerospace, automotive, medical and high-tech applications – recently announced plans to spend $4.5 million to expand its
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From Cacao Bean to Chocolate Bar

French Broad Chocolates directly imports beans from cacao farms in Perú, Costa Rica and Nicaragua to create truffles, chocolate bars, brownies and more.

manufacturing facility and add 25 new positions in engineering, production and operations. GoURMet Coffee, CHocoLAte And MUstARd Food is at the center of daily life in Asheville, which features a growing number of artisan food establishments. Chocolate lovers can’t resist the truffles, caramels and brownies at French Broad Chocolates. And coffee connoisseurs should make a point to taste one of the seasonal or select coffees offered by Dynamite Roasting Co., a small batch roaster of organic, Fair Trade Certified™ coffee. “Our first year, we roasted a few thousand pounds, and now we are roasting 100,000 pounds [a year],” says cofounder/roastmaster Andy Gibbon, who regards Asheville as his adopted hometown. “Like a lot of folks, I moved here for the mountains and lifestyle, and ended up making my home here because of the great local business culture and arts scene.” “Asheville is an amazing place to start a business,” says Kelly Davis, owner and founder of Lusty Monk Mustard. The name of the business was inspired by a medieval order of monks who were forbidden to eat mustard because it was believed to be an aphrodisiac.

French Broad Chocolates’ high-quality products are created at the company’s Asheville factory, where tours are held every Saturday.



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Lusty Monk Mustard produces fresh-ground mustards in three flavors, including Original Sin, which is created using an old-style recipe. The company’s products are sold in Asheville and across the U.S. at grocery stores, specialty shops, cafes and breweries.

Local Biz Spreads Across the U.S.

“It’s great to live and work in a place where people support the local economy.”
AndY GIbbon, DYNamIte ROastING CO.

“The folks here are very supportive of local businesses and have ‘spread the lust’ far and wide,” Davis says. Sales of Lusty Monk’s fresh-ground spicy mustard (original, chipotle and honey) have grown tenfold since debuting in 2007. “The people here are fiercely loyal to local products,” Gibbon says, alluding to the success of Dynamite Roasting, Lusty Monk and other local gourmet food establishments. “It’s great to live and work in a place where people support the local economy.”

BUSINESS

ng Busineyi sses
ASHE VILLE IS HOM FAST- GROW E TO UNIQUE, COMP ING BUSIN ESS VENT ELLING, URES
by JASON ZASKY

High-Fl

LE

GE AVIATION:

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ASHEVIL

“This is the first time we produce a CMC will component,” mass work, but a Walsh of GE great Aviation. The says Kelly TE Connectiv place to do business.” turbine shroud, high-pressure publicly traded ity, another global, LEAP engine, part of the best-selling corporation expanding , is also Boeing and will enter service on Airbus, its local manufactu COMAC planes operations ring “It will be the in 2016. with a $1.68 million investmen The firm is mass produce first plant in the world enhancing t. to its existing which produces she adds. The CMCs for jet propulsion facility, a variety of ,” company chose electronic switches relays and capacity near to add an existing for the Aerospace, because of GE plant, in Defense and company’s the part Marine business unit. And STF local workforce“proven track record” Precision – of the manufactu and the support economic developme rer of cutting a leading of local tools for aerospace, automotive nt groups, which make Asheville “not only a , medical and tech application great place highto plans to spend s – recently announced $4.5 million to expand its
L I VA B I L I

usinesses large and small, are thriving – and expand high-tech and high concept forefront ing – in , is GE Aviation of the city’s economic Asheville. At the growth movem , which recently 125,000 -square ent finalized It will produce -foot advanced compos plans to build a ite next generat ceramic matrix compos component factory. ion jet aircraft ite materials for GE’s engines.

B

JARED KAY

WITH AMPLIFIED

MEDIA

T Y. C O M /A

SHEVILL

E

43

dIGItAL MAGAZIne
Read it online or on your tablet and quickly share articles with friends.




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Business Spotlight
HUnteR BAnKs Co.
Since 1985, Hunter Banks Co., a full line, full-service fly-fishing firm, has prided itself on carrying the largest and highest-quality fly retail selection in the Asheville area. www.hunterbanks.com

Good NeIGHboR SeRVIces
Good Neighbor Services is just that – a good neighbor to the Buncombe County community. Owners Roger and Sandy Miller house-sit, run errands, and provide transportation and courier services. goodneighborserviceswnc.com

MoUntAIn BIZWoRKs
By providing loans, classes and coaching to startups and existing small businesses, Mountain BizWorks has helped create jobs and grow the Asheville economy since 1989. www.mountainbizworks.org

FLoRA
For weddings and special occasions, Asheville residents look to Flora, a full-service boutique, to handle all their floral needs. www.floraevents.com

VISIT OUR ADVERTISERS
AB Tech Community College www.abtech.edu Asheville City Schools www.asheville.k12.nc.us Asheville Savings Bank www.ashevillesavingsbank.com Asheville School www.ashevilleschool.org Bankers Insurance LLC www.bankersinsurance.net BMW of Asheville www.bmwofasheville.com Buncombe County www.buncombecounty.org Buncombe County Department of Social Services www.buncombecounty.org/jobs Carolina Day School www.cdschool.org Christ School www.christschool.org Clean Streak Inc. www.cleanstreakinc.net Coldwell Banker King www.cbasheville.com Elizabeth A. Brown CPA, PC www.eabrowncpa.com Four Seasons www.fourseasonsclf.org Fox Dental Associates www.foxdentalassociates.com Givens Estates Retirement Community www.givensestates.org Hotel Indigo www.boutiquehotel-asheville.com Parsec Financial www.parsecfinancial.com Pisgah Valley Retirement Community www.pisgahvalley.org The Farm – A Gathering Place www.thefarmevents.com

WNC GReen BUILdInG CoUncIL
The WNC Green Building Council educates community members on the health and environmental impact of design and construction in Asheville. The organization also provides tours, publications and workshops. www.wncgbc.org

Stay plugged into Asheville’s business community at livability. com/asheville/nc/business.



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bUsIness: Chamber Report

Politically Correct
Building community through business. That’s the mission of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, and the chamber’s director of communications, Erin Leonard, says one key way the chamber helps its business membership is by bringing a voice to the state legislature in Raleigh. “We have a two-person chamber department called Public Policy that monitors any state legislation affecting local business and industry,” Leonard says. “Those two people – Jeff Joyce and Laura Copeland, along with volunteer leadership, – also receive input from chamber members to guide us in the agenda that they should be presenting to legislators.” The Public Policy team travels to Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, to advocate for job creation, tax modernization, regulatory reform, education funding issues and economic development tools. The team works closely with city, county and even national leaders to promote the interests of the local business community. “Public Policy is also a major backer of area transportation and infrastructure efforts, which currently includes completing the Interstate 26 Connector that would ease traffic, attract more distribution businesses and better serve citizens, visitors and industry in the region,” Leonard says. bUsIness WeeK Leonard adds that in October 2013, the chamber organized a Business Walk where 120 volunteers visited companies throughout the area, listening to issues that are important to local businesses. The volunteers asked two to three questions of company owners or managers, and the chamber is compiling the


CHaMBER MONItORS StatE LEgISLatURE ON BEHaLF OF MEMBERSHIP
information to see what improvements need to be made. “That information will be shared with our membership, the community and the media, and will give our Public Policy division even more insight when it meets with legislators,” she says. “Speaking of which, the chamber also schedules a reception every August where the business sector can meet directly with our western North Carolina legislators, and we also host a legislative luncheon in the spring for the same reason. We keep in touch with Raleigh 12 months a year, all to benefit our membership and further build our community through business.”  by Kevin Litwin



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Ad Index
33 AB TECH COMMUNItY COLLEGE 30 ASHEVILLE CItY SCHOOLS 45 ASHEVILLE SaVINGS BaNK 2 ASHEVILLE SCHOOL 17 BaNKERS INSURaNCE LLC C3 BMW OF ASHEVILLE 21 BUNCOMbE COUNtY 41 HOtEL INdIGO 36 BUNCOMbE COUNtY DEPaRtMENt OF SOCIaL SERVICES 29 CaROLINa DaY SCHOOL 47 CHRISt SCHOOL 46 PaRSEC FINaNCIaL 48 PISGaH VaLLEY REtIREMENt COMMUNItY 19 THE FaRM a GatHERING PLaCE 37 CLEaN StREaK INC. C4 COLdwELL BaNKER KING C3 ELIZabEtH A BROwN CPA PC 34 FOUR SEaSONS 34 FOX DENtaL ASSOCIatES 34 GIVENS EStatES REtIREMENt COMMUNItY

ASHEVILLE NORTH CAROLINA
Editor | Mitch Kline Contributing Writers | Joe Morris, Chris Russell, Kristi Stephens Walker, Jason Zasky Copy Editor | Jessica Walker Boehm Staff Writer | Kevin Litwin Marketing Coordinator | Lauren Zimmerman Lead Designer | Matt West Senior Graphic Designers | Stacey Allis, Laura Gallagher, Kris Sexton, Jake Shores, Vikki Williams Graphic Designers | Jackie Ciulla, Lindsey Higgins Kacey Passmore Creative Technology Analyst | Becca Ary Lead Photographer | Brian McCord Senior Photographer | Jeff Adkins Staff Photographers | Michael Conti, Wendy Jo O’Barr, Frank Ordoñez, Michael Tedesco Color Imaging Technician | Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager | Chris Gendek Advertising Production/ Sales Manager | Katie Middendorf Sales Support Coordinator | Christina Morgan Ad Traffic Assistants | Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Web Project Manager | David Day Digital Project Manager | Jill Ridenour Digital Products Designer | Erica Lampley Web Developer I | Nels Noseworthy Web Designer II | Richard Stevens Chairman | Greg Thurman President/Publisher | Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President | Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales | Todd Potter, Jarek Swekosky Senior V.P./Client Development | Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./Operations | Casey Hester Senior V.P./Digital | Michael Barber V.P./Content Operations | Natasha Lorens Creative Services Director | Christina Carden Photography Director | Jeffrey S. Otto Web Creative Director | Allison Davis Controller | Chris Dudley Senior Accountant | Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator | Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinators | Diana Iafrate, Becca Sweitzer IT Director | Daniel Cantrell Database Director | Debbie Woksa Executive Secretary | Kristy Giles Human Resources Manager | Peggy Blake

2014 EdItIoN

VoLUmE 12

STAMP OUT BREAST CANCER WITH YOUR FEET.

Livability: Asheville, North Carolina is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at [email protected]. For more information, contact: Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce 36 Montford Ave. • Asheville, NC 28801 Phone: (828) 258-6114 • Fax: (828) 251-0926 www.ashevillechamber.org Visit Livability: Asheville, North Carolina online at livability.com/asheville ©Copyright 2014 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member Member The Association of Magazine Media Custom Content Council

Every step you take in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure helps raise vital funds for the fight against breast cancer. But don’t let your journey stop there. Take a step toward improving your own health by educating yourself about the disease and getting regular screenings. Step by step, this Race will be won.
®

Learn more about the Komen Race for the Cure by visiting www.komen.org or calling 1-877 GO KOMEN.
This space is provided as a public service. ©2008 Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

Member Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce



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EcoNomIc pRofILE
$3B
Annual Retail Sales 60% 7% 750999 1,0002,999 3,000+ 12%

ScoRecARd

21%

$1.5B
Annual Visitor Spending

Top EMpLoYeRs
  Buncombe County Public Schools, Ingles Markets Inc., Mission Health System
 City of Asheville, The Biltmore Co. Museums, Buncombe County Gov., Omni Grove Park Inn, Asheville VA Medical Center  BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems, CarePartners Nursing & Residential Care Facilities, Eaton Corp.

edUcAtIon LeVeL
  High School Graduate   Associate Degree   Bachelor’s Degree   Master’s Degree

11,362
Total Number of Establishments

TAXes

HoUseHoLd IncoMe
 $100,000+ 5,107  $30,000-99,999  $29,999 and Under
13,991

TRAnspoRtAtIon

7%
City Sales and Use Tax

2.25%
County Sales and Use Tax

4.75%
State Sales and Use Tax

18,723

ART (Asheville Redefines Transit) www.ridetheart.com

ELIZABETH A. BROWN CPA, PC
Experienced and Great Personal Service
Elizabeth A (Betty Ann) Brown
1340 Patton Ave., Ste. B Asheville, NC 28806 828-575-9575 828-575-5420

[email protected] www.eabrowncpa.com





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