Capital at Play December 2013

Wick & Greene

Coffee Buzz

4 Generations of Craftsmen

at Dynamite Coffee Co.

The Free Spirit Of Enterprise

Candy Cakes So good you can bathe in ‘em

Volume III - Edition VIII

(but don’t eat them!)

complimentary edition

capitalatplay.com

December1 2013 December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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For over 85 years, You have trusted us to help you create jewelry to celebrate

life's precious moments.

Make these moments

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December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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Publisher’s Thoughts

Your source for Hearth and Patio needs

The holidays are for family and friends, for relaxation and with another year coming to a close, a time for reflection on what’s most important to you. Ironically, this is also a time for unimaginable stress and complication, as we increase our debt and decrease our idle time.

P

reparing for the festivities can be a job in itself, and let’s not forget working overtime leading up to November and December, just to secure a few days off work for yourself. Those of you with a start-up company will probably work right through the holidays (been there, done that…). You are the only one who knows what your time is truly worth.

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Just remember the single phrase that lends a healthy perspective: It’s all about the journey. I know I say it a lot, but it matters more than usual this season. Though occasionally it seems like the only thing that will be remembered is what we find in a perfect family photo, the most compelling memories are the ones not caught on film. What happens beyond the edges of the camera lens, past the decorations and lights, is what makes every day better than the last. If that idea sounds foreign to you, perhaps this holiday season will bring you something truly special: the time to contemplate and plan your next adventure in life, something to give you true purpose each and every day. Whether that’s found beyond the horizon, in an industry or market on the far side of the globe; or in your garage, kitchen, or backyard, I wish you the merriest of times, and the jolliest of hearts.

If you just aren’t sure, I’ll ask you the same question we ask everyone featured in Capital At Play: Why do you get out of bed every day?

Sincerely,

Harley O. Morgan

An Education for an Inspired Life Asheville School prepares high school students for an education of a lifetime. A challenging academic experience motivates students to become better thinkers, communicators, and develop strong study habits. One hundred percent of our graduates go on to college, and they attend top colleges and universities. Students learn life lessons in a nurturing, close-knit community of 280 students from 20 states and 17 countries.

For more than a century, Asheville School has fostered lives of leadership and service. We invite you to discover Asheville School and learn why our students have a competitive edge.

Call today to request an admission packet, attend one of our open houses, or inquire about our merit scholarship program.

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ashevilleschool.org/facebook • ashevilleschool.org/twitter • ashevilleschool.org/youtube • ashevilleschool.org/linkedin • ashevilleschool.org/googleplus December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 5

The Free Spirit Of Enterprise

publisher & editor

Harley O. Morgan associate publisher

Jeffrey Green contributing editors

Dasha O. Morgan, David Bradley, Alexina O. Morgan, Brenda Murphy contributing writers

Craig Madison, Roger McCredie, Anna Raddatz, Toni Sherwood, Camille Stimach, Mike Summey, Arthur Treff gr aphic designer

Hanna Trussler marketing & advertising

Sales Director - Kate Brantly Pat Starnes

Information & Inquiries for advertising inquiries

e-mail advertising@capitalatplay.com or call 828.274.7305 for subscription information

subscribe online at www.capitalatplay.com or call 828.274.7305 for editorial inquiries

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| December 2013

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Published by Universal Media Inc. PO Box 5615, Asheville, NC. 28813

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Capital At Play is a trademark of Universal Media, Inc.

“ It costs nothing to see for yourself ” “ It costs nothing to see for yourself ”

“ It costs nothing to see for yourself ” “ It costs nothing to see for yourself ” “ It costs nothing to see for yourself ” “ It costs nothing to see for yourself ”

Come in and see the latest Come in and see the latest Apple® products JUST released!

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Checkour our newest newest location Check locationinin Biltmore Park Park Town Town Square.

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Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. ® ® Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

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Square Road Biltmore 828-251-4242 755 Biltmore Ave AshevillePark Town Square

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| December 2013

Feature Articles

Those who take the risk and inspire others to do likewise. We bring every sector of private industry right to your fingertips.

p.12

Just Desserts candy cakes bath bakery

p.52

Wick & Greene Jewelers four generations of craftsmen

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Coffee Buzz at Dynamite Coffee Co. andy gibbon & josh gibbs

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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Contents

d e c e m b e r 2 0 13

lo c a l i n d u s t ry

columns

28 Appease Your Inner Scrooge

36 Camille Stimach

With year end tax strategies

l e i s u r e & l i b at i o n 41 Sweet & Savory Seasonal selections

Keep it Simple (Pt. I): Credit in the real world

64 Craig Madison The Holiday Season: Taking the seasonal out of the tourism business

86 Mike Summey

keepin’ it brief

How $100,000,000,000,000 became worthless in 29 years

24 Carolina in the West 68 The Old North State 90 National & World News

94 Red Tape How to secede in business…

l i f e at p l ay

events

84 How do they do it?

98 Get out of your Office

We ask everyone featured in C@P the same question, for an entire year.

The question this year is: “Do you pursue further education, and why or why not?”

10

politics

| December 2013

See what’s going on in your community this month

104 People at Play Weekend at Bright’s Creek

Running a business isn’t easy, and as a leader it’s your job to stay ahead of the Running a business isn’t easy, and a leader it’s your job tothat staycould ahead of the competition and maximize profits.

Butasthere are some threats endanger competition and profits. there are threats thatahead couldofendanger Running business isn’t easy, and asBut a leader it’s some your job to stay the even the amost solidmaximize businesses. even the most solid businesses. competition profits.the Butchallenges there are and somefind threats that could endanger Express can and helpmaximize you anticipate solutions even the most solidyou businesses.

Express can help anticipate the challenges and find solutions before they threaten your business. before theyhelp threaten your business.

Express you anticipate the challenges and find solutions Call or gocan online today and see how. before threaten yourand business.

Call orthey go online today see how.

Call or go online today and see how.

Positions include: Positions include: • Professional Positions include: Professional ••Office Services •••Professional Office Services Commercial •••Office Services Commercial Flexible Staffing ••Commercial Flexible Staffing • Flexible Staffing

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December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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JUST

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| December 2013

DESSERTS written by anna r addatz

|

photos by anthony harden

Hendersonville Bath Bakery Delights Customers Worldwide

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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| December 2013

J

acey Kross recalls one afternoon when a woman came into Candy Cakes, selected a small cupcake, and brought it up to the counter to purchase. “I said, ‘Would you like this in a gift box?’ and she said, ‘Oh no, I’ll just eat it now.’ And I said, ‘Um, I don’t think so...’”

They truly do look good enough to eat. And while the natural ingredients aren’t harmful if they are ingested (just ask the owner’s Shih Tzu), these cupcakes are made to soothe the body, not the sweet tooth.

Candy Cakes Bath Bakery whips up bath bombs and other bath products disguised as cupcakes, cake slices, ice cream cones, and other sweet treats. There’s something for every occasion and mood, from Bridal French Vanilla Cupcake bath bombs and Birthday Cake milk bath slices, to Fresh Lavender “pedi-fours” foot soaks and Pompous Pomegranate Ice Cream Cone bubble baths.

If you think it sounds delicious, you’re not alone. “All day, every day, people come in asking if it’s a bakery,” says founder and owner Ali Pearson. “We have a sign that says ‘do not eat.’

We have no refrigerators. But they still ask!”

Luckily, all of this trompe l’oeil confusion hasn’t impeded sales one bit. From a small location on Main Street in Hendersonville, Candy Cakes is doing big business. Dozens of retailers, large and small, carry their products—including the Waldorf Astoria hotel chain, Hallmark, Foxwoods Resort Casino, and Crabtree & Evelyn—and they ship 10 to 15 orders a day to places as far-flung as Germany and Egypt. While 99% of Candy Cakes’ sales are via wholesale, individuals can purchase the products online or by stepping into their adorable storefront.

And it all started with some baking sheets and a countertop mixer in Ali Pearson’s kitchen.

From Home Kitchen to the Hilton cupcake queens : (left to right)

Rica Trejo, Jacey Kross, Candace Pearson, and Ali Pearson

She came up with the concept back in 2007. A fan of bath products, Pearson thought it would be cute to put bath bomb ingredients into cupcake liners. She developed a recipe that worked—“That was the easy part,” she explains. Trickier was

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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how to make the cupcakes beautiful; that’s where her daughter, Candace, came in. “My youngest daughter had just graduated from culinary school, where she had taken some pastry courses,” says Pearson. “She taught me how to ice.”

Pearson started churning out creations in her kitchen, using a small KitchenAid mixer. She reconnected with a friend and former co-worker, Jacey Kross, who began assisting with the business as marketing director. As Pearson came up with new

their surprise, the buyer replied immediately, asking if they could meet that afternoon. “I thought, ‘Oh no, I can’t do that!

I’m not ready! My samples have to be perfect,’” says Pearson. An appointment was made, the buyer fell in love with the product, and a long-term relationship was built. Today the Biltmore Estate places one or two orders every month.

Getting the Biltmore account was a turning point for the company. First, the higher demand meant that the business needed more space than Pearson’s home kitchen could offer. “We pooled all of our savings and pennies together,” says Kross, and they moved into a storefront in Hendersonville in February 2012. They also bought a 500-pound industrial mixer to replace Pearson’s little KitchenAid and brought on a few more helpers.

But more importantly, because the Biltmore Estate receives an annual visitorship of approximately one million people from all over the world, it became the source of a steady stream of leads for Candy Cakes.

For example, the owner of a Canadian pharmacy chain happened across Candy Cakes’ products during a visit to the Biltmore Estate, and in June 2012 called to commission a holiday line for her 1,200 stores. “She found us at the Biltmore and

“She said 40,000 or 50,000 units, and each unit is a package of three or six. I’m doing the math…

40,000 times six… and I’m thinking, that’s a hell of a lot of cupcakes! I called Ali and said, ‘Are you sitting down?’” designs, Kross would photograph them and email the images to stores, searching for sales. “We got a couple hits that way,” says Kross. Local stores like Porter & Prince and Lavender Fields started carrying Candy Cakes’ products.

Through their contact at Porter & Prince, they made a connection with the merchandise buyer at the Biltmore Estate. To

16

| December 2013

she bought everything up that she found there,” recalls Kross.

“She called out of the blue, and we had a long chat. I asked what sort of numbers they were looking for. She said 40,000 or 50,000 units, and each unit is a package of three or six. I’m doing the math… 40,000 times six… and I’m thinking, that’s a hell of a lot of cupcakes! I called Ali and said, ‘Are you sitting down?’”

By working long hours and producing thousands of cupcakes a day over four months, they fulfilled the job. As they describe the experience now, Pearson and Kross display the yin-and-yang balance common to so many collaborators. “All of it was a great experience,” says Pearson enthusiastically. “I absolutely loved it.” Kross counters with a slightly tense expression: “It was very stressful,” she says, but follows up with the fact that the order enabled her to quit her day job to focus on Candy Cakes full-time. “I thought, ‘Yay! Now we can really work together.’”

The Canadian pharmacy job also provided enough funds to make some investments in the business. Pearson and Kross started attending trade shows in New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and London, which helped them make connections and land new wholesale clients. And they updated their branding materials, from their logo and website to their product packaging.

“You have to have money to package,” explains Pearson, “and when you start shipping big orders and can have damages, you start to re-evaluate.” They went from packing their cupcakes in poly bags, to using custom-made plastic boxes that look beautiful on the shelf and protect the product in transit. “Finding

the right cupcake box was a challenge,” recalls Pearson. “It took a year.” But their patience paid off; higher-end packaging translated into a dramatic increase in sales.

In fact, “patience” has become one of Pearson’s mantras. “If it’s something you love doing, don’t give up,” she advises. She has witnessed many other entrepreneurs who quit too early, losing steam when overnight success doesn’t materialize. Even Kross admits that early on she was tempted to throw in the towel. But for Pearson, that was never an option. “She knew it would work and never gave up,” says Kross of Pearson.

In a similar vein, both women have learned over and over to follow their gut instincts when it comes to big business decisions—and never to make commitments hastily. “Too many people make quick decisions,” says Pearson. “And they make those decisions out of fear.” Instead, Pearson says that when she takes a slow, thoughtful approach, the answer usually finds her.

“It’s a matter of not jumping so quickly. Let it come to you. If you wait, it will come to you, and you will know what direction you should go.”

For Candy Cakes, sometimes this can mean turning down opportunities that aren’t a good fit (discount stores that would undermine their high-end brand identity) or seem suspicious (proposed business ventures that aren’t aboveboard). “We’ve turned down jobs that we know will cause problems,” says Kross.

“We want the right fit every time.”

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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| December 2013

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 19

estate Bill Fishburne isis all allabout aout real

the Client

Bill Fishburne Broker-Associate Beverly-Hanks & Assoc.

400 Beverly-Hanks Ctr. Hendersonville, NC 828-777-0096

is all about

real estate

bfishburne@beverly-hanks.com

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| December 2013

Building the Perfect Bath Bomb A bath bomb is not soap—a fact that the Candy Cakes ladies explain to their customers on a daily basis. “There are no detergents, period,” says Pearson. Instead, a bath bomb is dissolved in bath water, fizzing and bubbling as it releases relaxing fragrances, moisturizing oils, and soothing salts. If a soap scrub-down is the entrée of bathing, bath bombs are the dessert.

In the case of Candy Cakes’ cupcakes—which are by far the business’ most popular product, making up 85% of sales—the fizzy bath bomb portion is the “cake” base, and the “icing” acts as a sugar scrub that softens the water. In production, both parts are finicky to work with.

“I think most people think you literally make a big pot of this stuff and whip it into the pans and bake it and then you just ice it and that’s about it,” says Pearson. “But it’s not that simple.” First of all, the ingredient proportions have to be just right or the materials won’t have the right consistency. And secondly, both the bomb and icing concoctions, once mixed, are very time sensitive. The bomb mixture is only workable for a few minutes before it starts to harden. One person pipes the “batter” into the individual cupcake liners, and a second person follows behind, flattening the surface of each cupcake to make it level for the future frosting. The bomb “cakes” are then racked to dry for 24-72 hours (foil liners take longer). Dried, they have the weight of plaster and the crystalline texture of powdered dishwasher detergent.

Next comes the icing. In the Candy Cakes operation, only Pearson and her daughter, Candace, have the requisite skills to pipe the icing onto the cakes.

Working with the icing is also time sensitive, and it presents an added challenge of being vulnerable to heat and humidity. For this reason, icing is done in the morning, “because the temperature is perfect and the humidity hasn’t gotten in the doors.” Fans and a powerful air conditioning system help ensure that the icing won’t “flop.” “It’s like a freezer back there when I’m working,” says Pearson.

Once the icing is in place, additional adornments are added—from glitter and sprinkles, to more extravagant toppings like the vintage sterling diamante rings that crown the “Queen of the Tub” cupcakes. But the sprinkles aren’t just thrown on; each element is added carefully by hand to each individual cupcake. Kross says that she often sees Pearson holding a decorated cupcake up to eye-level, and turning it around in her hand, making sure that it looks great from all angles. If it doesn’t, it doesn’t go out the door—no exceptions. “Each cupcake is being created to perfection,” says Pearson adamantly. “My motto is that it’s not about getting the job done, it’s about getting the job done right. And if it’s not done right, it’s not going out.”

It’s this commitment to perfection and consistency to which Pearson and Kross attribute Candy Cakes’ success. “[Our wholesale clients] have taken the time to trust us with the product,” says Kross. “We want them to sell them, and we want to have a relationship with them. Even if it’s a minimum order from a florist, or it’s the Hilton, it’s got to be the same.”

“We’ve been eating ramen on and off to keep the company going. But success is nothing financial.

It’s just hearing people say [that the product] is gorgeous, or hearing from a store that they’ve flown out the door.”

“I’ve always trusted Nationwide Insurance® to protect my business.”

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Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. The NASCAR Nationwide Series Champion logo and word mark are used under license by the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc. and Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. NASCAR® and the NASCAR® logo are registered trademarks of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc. Nationwide, Nationwide Insurance, On Your Side and the Nationwide framemark are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2011 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved. The JR Motorsports logo and the name, likeness and signature of Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and all related rights are property of, are used with the permission of JR Motorsports, LLC and JRM Licensing, LLC. Paid Endorsement.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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A Recession-Proof Luxury The obvious question for any business owner who launched a venture in 2007—especially one producing non-essential goods—is, “How did you make it through the recession?”

Pearson’s surprising response? “It didn’t affect us.”

“People will always find the money for a lovely gift for someone they care about,” explains Kross. And while they may not be able to spend a lot on gifts when times are tough, a splurge of $5 to $30 is often still possible. “Our price point is perfect for a feel-good gift,” adds Pearson.

This is added to the natural appeal of a product that combines two popular ways for women to unwind: sugar and soaking.

It’s a sweet indulgence, without the calories. It’s both fun and deliciously forbidden. Kross says that many women who come into the store say things like: “My friend’s on a diet, but she loves cupcakes, and this is such a cool substitute.”

But women aren’t Candy Cakes’ only customers. Pearson and Kross say that men are some of their biggest fans, fascinated by the cleverness of the concept and attracted by their own love of sweets. In fact, during our visit to the store, we witnessed several men on the sidewalk pulling their wives over to the display window to point out the creative cakes. Pearson explains that if the men don’t take baths themselves, they like to buy the products as gifts for the women in their lives.

The positive response people have to Candy Cakes’ products is a reflection of the joy these women have put into their work.

When asked if there’s anything she doesn’t enjoy about running her business, Pearson draws a blank. “This is my life,” she says.

“It’s fun, I love it, and I love being here. That’s all I can say. I love to get my products done and get them out the door.” For Pearson, icing cupcakes is like going to her “happy place,” and she receives a lot of creative satisfaction from designing new

OWENS OR C H I D S

limited edition products, which come out every three to four months.

For Kross’ part, the thing that gets her out of bed every day, excited about the work ahead, is the exhilarating feeling that anything could happen. “We can get an email out of the blue again that can take us to another level,” she says.

It sounds like those new levels are just around the corner.

In May at the National Stationery Show in New York, Candy Cakes landed a contract with Urban Outfitters. They’re also in talks with a major television retailer and a major fragrance designer—deals that could dramatically increase their brandname recognition on a national scale.

But regardless of what new deals might come to fruition, these ladies already feel successful. As Kross says, “We’ve been eating ramen on and off to keep the company going. But success is nothing financial. It’s just hearing people say [that the product] is gorgeous, or hearing from a store that they’ve flown out the door.”

Pearson couldn’t agree more. “Everyone loves to have money, I’m sure, because it makes life easier. But I don’t always put money and success together. Success is so much more,” she says. “Perfecting the product to such beauty, that’s total success to me.”

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carolina in the

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Lake Junaluska receives national awards The Lake Junaluska marketing and communications team won seven awards, including first place for The Lake Junaluska Assembly Daily and the Lake Junaluska Centennial photo at the 2013 United Methodist Association of Communicators annual meeting held at the end of October in Chicago, Illinois. “We are proud of the marketing and communications team, all of whom are working together to effectively tell the story of Lake Junaluska,” said Jack Ewing, Lake Junaluska Executive Director. Director of Advancement, Ken Howle, Marketing Manager, Stephanie Drum, and graphic designer, John Patterson, were given a first place award for the newsletter The Lake Junaluska Assembly Daily, which judges claimed was “very informative. Excellence achieved.” Drum, Patterson, and the Director of Program Ministries, Jennifer Martin, received first place for visual design with the Ski Lake Junaluska brochure. “Its edgy design enabled it to reach out to its intended youth audience,” noted the judges. Howle, Drum, and Patterson were also given second place in the magazine category for The Lake Junaluska Centennial magazine. In addition, Howle was recognized with 2nd place in the photojournalism category for his colorful Jingle Dancer photo, and first place in the commercial or Fine Art category for the Lake Junaluska Centennial photo. Emma Howle won second place for her work on the Centennial Stories blog, while the Lake Junaluska marketing and communications team also received second place in the special publication category for The Lake Junaluska Annual Report. The United Methodist Association of Communicators is a voluntary, professional organization designed to offer recognition, fellowship and vocational enrichment for professional and volunteer communicators of the church; plan, participate in and support training and continuing education events; establish standards and seek to enhance the professional quality of the work by United Methodist communicators; and help keep members informed about developments in the communications industry, and in promoting dialogue and discussion on technology and communication advocacy issues.

Chestnut plantings show promise in WNC Efforts to bring the mighty chestnut tree back to the Appalachian Mountains, rather than let it slowly dissolve into a mere memory, continue. The U.S. Forest Service published an article by intern Ryan Johnson about the project, which launched in 2009. Agency researchers and partners planted almost 1,000 potentially blight-resistant American chestnut trees in the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina and in national forests in Tennessee and Virginia.

According to the article, “Since then, more than 80 percent of the

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American chestnut backcross hybrid saplings planted in the three national forests have survived…Most of the trees are healthy, growing steadily and showing differing levels of resistance so far, which is encouraging for the hopeful people working to return the tree to its native range.” Prior to the chestnut blight in the early 20th century, American chestnut trees, which sometimes reached heights of 150 feet, heavily dominated Eastern United States forests. The article notes how experts estimate that at one time, one in every four hardwood trees in the east was an American chestnut. By the 1950’s, however, the blight had killed billions of trees, leaving the species virtually non-existent.

Creation of the hybrid chestnut variety involved crossing the American chestnut with a Chinese chestnut tree. In the article, Bryan Burhans, president of The American Chestnut Foundation that has worked to create the blight-resistant hybrid, explained: “One level of success is to develop a tree that will survive long enough to naturally pollinate and reproduce…The seedlings are 94 percent American chestnut and carry the gene for blight resistance. Of the American chestnut trees planted in three national forests, half were backcross hybrids and half were native chestnut trees.” Burhans said the trees’ blight resistance will be put to the test as they mature during the approaching years.

The U.S. Forest Service, the Chestnut Foundation and the University of Tennessee participated in a joint effort to plant the trees. There are also supposed plans to expand the chestnut-planting project to the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina.

New High Country Brewery Blowing Rock can now boast its own contribution to Western North Carolina’s beer culture. The Blowing Rock Ale House and Inn is the High Country’s first brewery, pub and inn all combined into one location. Located on Sunset Drive in downtown Blowing Rock, the site features an on-site brewery, first-class restaurant and pub, and a 14-room inn. Although the Blowing Rock Ale House had been open for nearly two months prior to the big announcement, it had been serving Blowing Rock Brewing Company products that were produced by the company at breweries off the mountain. All of that changed in October, when the company revealed its own brewery, located in a building behind the restaurant and inn. The opening followed a full year of renovations to one of Blowing Rock’s historic downtown properties. Rob Dyer and Lisa Stripling, owners of the Best Cellar Restaurant and Inn at Ragged Gardens, opened the Blowing Rock Ale House in the large inn that formerly housed the Maple Lodge. The Ale House is open for both lunch and dinner every day except Wednesday.

It features a casual dining atmosphere and offers one of the most unique menus in the High Country, which revolves around seasonally available, fresh, and locally sourced food. Walker and Rice founded Blowing Rock Brewing Company in 2008. It now employs 35 people in the High Country. Through its partnership with Charlotte-based Tryon Distributing Company, its beers are sold in restaurants and independent retailers throughout NC, as well as in retail chains, such as Harris Teeter, Lowes Foods, Fresh Market, Ingles, Whole Foods, Earth Fare and Total Wine. Blowing Rock Ale House and Inn is located at 152 Sunset Drive in downtown Blowing Rock.

GA_Capital_Dec13_GA 11/8/13 6:08 AM Page 1

Keepin’ it local and fresh.

Through January 2, 2014 According to officials, Buncombe County will operate a powerful new emergency radio system, improving public safety communications in tricky mountain terrain. The County’s emergency services director, Jerry VeHaun, said the state-of-the-art, digital system was launched in October following two years of planning and installing equipment, including 12 new transmission towers. County emergency personnel, including sheriff’s deputies, emergency medical personnel and firefighters, utilize the system in responding to fires, accidents, law enforcement matters and other emergencies.

The recent system replaces an older VHF system and will increase coverage of Buncombe’s 650 square miles of hilly terrain up to 95 percent. With the old system, radio transmissions were feasible in only about 75 percent of the county. The 700-megahertz system cost $10.2 million, but the county spent nearly $6 million on it.

The company providing the equipment, California-based Cassidian Communications, offered “backbone equipment,” including equipment at the county communications center on Erwin Hills Road, valued at nearly $4 million. Company leaders shared some of the cost because they desired a premier system in mountain terrain to showcase their products. The county will, however, keep its old VHF network as a backup system. The City of Asheville runs a separate emergency radio system of its own.

Asheville’s BB&T Building sold Downtown Asheville’s 17-story BB&T Building has been sold for $7.5 million as part of a hotel partnership. The deal represents a partnership between Glenn W. Wilcox, Sr., and his ownership company, Tower Associates, and the McKibbon Hotel Group, which intends to renovate the building and include an upscale hotel inside. A deed filed in November in Buncombe County shows the conveyance of the building from Tower Associates to MHG-Tower, LLC, a Georgia company that Wilcox claimed is a partnership between himself and John McKibbon, principal of the hotel company. Wilcox bought the building out of bankruptcy in 1988 for about $6 million. Wilcox, 81, said he bought the building for an established amount, then took 50 percent of that and invested in the new LLC with McKibbon. Although Wilcox did not confirm the sale price, the excise tax on the deed paperwork implies the sales price was $7.5 million. The sale also includes a parking deck across the street at 16 Broadway. The .4-acre land site and the BB&T Building have a combined tax value of $9.8 million. The hotel project will allegedly include a transition to a mixed-use building, including a hotel in part of the structure. According to Dave Tomsky, spokesman for Wilcox and McKibbon, in reference to a timetable for the hotel project, some current tenants have leases with two years left on them. He explained, “The only thing I know is all current leases will be honored to the end of the leasing period…It’s possible some work could be done on the internal part of the building before then, but no one’s been asked to leave.

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Small WNC fish hatchery to expand By the end of 2013, Sunburst Trout Farm plans to open a second 12,000-square-foot facility 12 miles away from the river, in Waynesville Industrial Park. Sunburst plans to use the spot for innovation in fish-processing technology as a space for agritourism and aquaculture education.

Sally Eason, the second generation of her family to own Sunburst Trout Farm, believes that the work accomplished in the new building has the potential to change the world. According to EcoWatch, in 2011 farmed fish topped beef production worldwide. This year there are predictions that more farmed fish will be consumed than wild. Farmraised fish, specifically salmon, has developed a bad reputation. Some farmed fish, especially those in overseas areas where regulations are not strict, are frequently raised in dirty conditions. Trout, however, seems to be an inherently cleaner product, since it requires pristine, cold and fast-flowing water to raise. This factor is likely responsible for the rise in Sunburst Trout’s stock. In 2012, the company purchased half a million dollars worth of trout hatchlings from Western North Carolina.

The demand is so high for more fish that Sunburst will soon begin hatching its own trout to supplement what it buys locally. Sunburst’s new facility will be open to the public. A Sunburst tour agenda will start at the trout runs in Canton and end at the Waynesville facility, which is full of fish-processing equipment. The facility will also be

equipped with four 4,000-gallon indoor aquaculture tanks with observation panels. Eason believes that the tour will be an eye-opening look into a different type of farming. “We want to be able to expand in schools and teach kids more about aquaculture and the importance of it in the future,” Eason explained. “Growing food applies to fish and things on the hoof as well as produce coming out of the ground.” The Haywood Advancement Foundation, a private entity invested in the growth of Haywood County, supports Sunburst Trout’s efforts. The foundation plans to purchase the new Waynesville production facility with the aim of leasing it to Sunburst. The trout farm will likely, in two decades or less, own the building. That building will become a source for sustainable food as well as a resource for those who want to grow it. Once complete, the new Sunburst building will include three bays, including a research and development area 10 times that of the space at the Canton fishery. Charles Hudson, the research and development chef for Sunburst Trout, is developing new equipment with the assistance of Haywood Community College Regional High Technology Center, which is near the new facility. High-Tech, an institution of applied advanced technology, has a three-dimensional printer, which is generating parts for a machine to extract more meat from each trout. Although they are in the very early stages of the equipment, Hudson estimates that, annually, he could recover nearly 10,000 pounds of meat that would otherwise be composted.

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Parkway section near Boone closes for repair A section of the Blue Ridge Parkway from Milepost 270 to Milepost 281 closed in November in order to repair a bridge that crosses Highway 421 in Boone. A detour will be signed from Milepost 270, at Phillips Gap north of the bridge to Milepost 281 at the Old U.S. 421/221 access. Crucial repairs are being made to granite retaining walls and bridge abutments. The closure is expected to last for approximately two months or until January 1, 2014, weather depending.

Parts of Graveyard Fields Trail on Parkway closed Portions of the Graveyard Fields Loop Trail are officially closed for upgrades. The U.S. Forest Service, which manages the area accessed at Milepost 418 off the Blue Ridge Parkway, anticipates completion by late December. The Forest Service will build a boardwalk on the east end of the trail, which will be closed. Users can access the Upper and Second Falls via the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Also, visitors can park in the Graveyard Fields Loop parking lot and start at the west end of the loop. The Blue Ridge Parkway will improve the parking area for Graveyard Fields in the near future. This effort will include increasing the parking capacity and construction of a restroom facility. The project funding is from a Scenic Byway Grant awarded to the Blue

Ridge Parkway Foundation. The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is providing the grant matching funds to pay for the trail work. This work is a collaborated effort between the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service.

Asheville’s MANNA FoodBank marks 30 years MANNA FoodBank honored its 30th anniversary in early November.

However, some attendees claimed the commemoration was not entirely a celebration. Becky Upham, the nonprofit’s communication director, said it was “bittersweet.” She explained, “We’re very glad we’re here for the community, but I don’t think anyone 30 years ago thought we would be distributing 11 million pounds of food and there would still be hungry people in Western North Carolina.” Upham was among nearly 400 volunteers, staff members and other supporters who participated in the ceremony at Diana Wortham Theatre. Although MANNA distributed 11.2 million pounds of food to more than 200 partner food pantries, soup kitchens, and other groups in 16 Western North Carolina counties in 2012, the slow-moving economy, among other variables, has left many people in the mountains hungry. Upham added that since 2005, the amount of food MANNA distributes annually has grown 90 percent. The food bank has 40 staff members at its facilities on Swannanoa River Road, plus help from nearly 6,500 of volunteers.

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Appease Your Inner Scrooge this holiday season with

Year-End Tax Strategies! writ ten by toni sherwood

*

see the Glossary located on page 34 for useful tax terms bolded throughout the article

At this time of year most of us are focused on the holidays. We’ve got gifts to buy and meals to plan, family gatherings to enjoy and parties to attend—who has time for taxes? But if your inner Scrooge is eager for a year-end retrospective, there could be a few spare moments you haven’t considered. While waiting in line for photos with Santa, how about calling your C.P.A.? On that long drive to Grandma’s house, forego the sightseeing and review your retirement plan. Or google ‘Affordable Care Act’ while the family trims the tree. The holidays offer innovative ways to catch up on the new tax laws and save.

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| December 2013

local industry

M

elanie Johnson, partner at Dixon Hughes Goodman (the largest CPA firm based in the Southern United States) is way ahead of the game.

With over 15 years at Dixon Hughes Goodman, she begins thinking about year-end planning right after tax season. “At that time clients may update me that this year will be different for them,” Johnson explains. “Perhaps they are planning to sell their house or expand their business.”

With plenty of lead-time she can help them strategize choices that optimize their situation in light of current tax laws.

But many of us don’t know what the year ahead will bring, and as daylight dwindles and holiday decorations appear, we may wonder if we’ve waited too long. Turns out there are many things we can do before New Year’s Eve is upon us.

Ghost of Tax Year Present David Hylton of Carter, P.C., a North Carolina based accounting and consulting firm, has 21 years of experience advising small to medium-sized businesses and their owners. He sees 2013 as having more changes than usual. “One reason is that last December with the concerns over the fiscal cliff, the new tax bill was pushed into January of 2013,” Hylton says. “Additionally, elements of the Affordable Care Act didn’t kick in until this year.” After finishing up all the firm’s clients on extensions, due October 15, Hylton barely got a breather before launching into their year-end campaign. “We try to get in front of a lot of our clients so there are no surprises. It’s all hands on deck,” Hylton admits.

Wondering what all the fuss is about? Here’s a breakdown of new taxes and rates for 2013. n e w ta x e s a n d r at e s

Two new taxes are in effect for 2013: the 3.8 percent Net Investment Income (NII) surtax and the 0.9 percent Additional Medicare Tax. The 3.8-percent NII surtax very broadly applies to individuals, estates and trusts that have certain investment income above set threshold amounts. These amounts include a $250,000 threshold for married couples filing jointly and a $200,000 threshold for single filers.

One strategy to consider is to keep, if possible, income below the threshold levels for the NII surtax by spreading income out over a number of years, or finding offsetting above-the-line deductions. If you are considering the sale of your home, and the proceeds will exceed the home sale exclusion, it’s best to contact your tax advisor to discuss any possible NII surtax.

The Additional Medicare Tax applies to wages and self-employment income above threshold amounts, including $250,000 for married couples filing joint returns and $200,000 for single individuals.

If you have not already reviewed your income tax withholding for 2013, now is the time to do it. One way to reduce the sting of any Additional Medicare Tax liability is to withhold an additional amount of income tax.

American Taxpayer Relief Act, or ATRA, extended the Bush-era tax rates for middle and lower income individuals. However, ATRA also revived the 39.6 percent top tax rate. For 2013, the starting points for the 39.6 percent bracket are $450,000 for married couples filing jointly and surviving spouses, $425,000 for heads of households, $400,000 for single filers, and $225,000 for married couples filing separately.

ATRA also revived the personal exemption phase-out and the limitation on itemized

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deductions for higher income individuals.

Starting in 2013, ATRA also sets the top rate for capital gains and dividends at 20 percent. This top rate aligns itself with the levels at which the new 39.6 percent income tax rate bracket starts: capital gains and dividends to the extent they would be otherwise taxed at the 39.6 percent rate as marginal ordinary income will be taxed at the 20 percent rate. ATRA did not change the application of ordinary income rates to short-term capital gains.

However, individuals should plan for the possibility of being subject to a higher top rate (39.6 percent).

Upper-income folks will bear the brunt of the negative changes, but unusual circumstances could expose anyone to the new laws. “For example, perhaps you inherited a stock that you sell this year, or perhaps you have a piece of land that you are able to sell for a large gain,” Hylton explains, “a lower income individual that experiences such a windfall this year may be bumped into an income level that differs greatly from their historical income.” But the tax laws do not consider income history. “Even if you disagree with the argument, at least it seems more understandable that those with high incomes should pay more tax,” Hylton says. “People do get caught in this situation and I wish it wasn’t the case.”

In addition, the United States Supreme Court ruled that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act was unconstitutional. As a result, all legally married same-sex couples will be treated as married for federal tax purposes. e x p i r i n g ta x i n c e n t i v e s

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Need an excuse to buy a new car or a boat? When your spouse or business partner questions your purchase, this year you’re covered: you’re just trying to save taxes.

Some generous, but temporary tax incentives are still available in 2013 but may not be in 2014. The state and local sales tax deduction (available in lieu of the deduction for state and local income taxes) is scheduled to expire after 2013,

local industry and you may want to accelerate that purchase of a big-ticket item such as a new car or boat to take advantage of the tax break.

A valuable tax credit for making certain energy efficient home improvements, including windows and heating and cooling systems, and a deduction for teachers’ classroom expenses are also scheduled to expire after 2013. These are just some of many incentives that will sunset after 2013 unless extended by Congress.

Johnson is recommending her business clients purchase new equipment this year.

“The amount of depreciation for businesses has been extended for 2013, but will be scaled back in 2014. If you’re a business thinking of adding new equipment, it’s better to do it this year—especially if it’s costly.” g i v e g i f t s a n d s av e

When it comes to holiday presents, opt for gifts that save you taxes. Hey, who wouldn’t want to find $14,000 under the tree?

For 2013, individuals can make tax-free gifts (no tax consequences for the giver or the recipient) of up to $14,000 to any individual. Married couples may “split” their gifts to each recipient, which effectively raises the tax-free gift to $28,000. Gifts between spouses are always tax-free unless one spouse is not a United States citizen. In that case, the first $143,000 in gifts made in 2013 is tax-free.

There are special rules for gifts made for medical care and education that can be a valuable component of a year-end tax strategy, especially for individuals who want to help a family member or friend. Monetary gifts given directly to a college to pay tuition or to a medical service provider are tax-free to the person making the gift and the person benefiting from education or medical care.

Gifts to charity also are frequently made at year-end. Through the end of 2013, taxpayers age 70½ and older can make a tax-free distribution from individual retirement accounts to a charity. The maximum distribution is $100,000. Individuals taking this option cannot claim a deduction for the charitable gift.

Fo

h o l i d ay r e a d i n g : a f f o r d a b l e c a r e a c t

Can’t get the kids to bed on Christmas Eve? The Affordable Care Act could be just the ticket. Gather the little ones around and read it aloud; soon you’ll all be softly snoring.

That’s right, before year-end, individuals need to review how the Affordable Care Act will impact them. The Affordable Care Act brings a sea of change to our traditional image of health insurance. The law requires individuals, unless exempt, to either carry minimum essential health care coverage or make a shared responsibility payment (penalty).

Most employer-sponsored health insurance is deemed to be minimum essential coverage, as is coverage provided by Medicare, Medicaid, and other government programs.

Self-employed individuals and small business owners should revisit their health insurance coverage, if they have coverage, before year-end and weigh the benefits and costs of obtaining coverage in a public marketplace (or a private insurance exchange) for themselves and their employees. Small businesses may be eligible for a tax credit to help pay for health insurance. Individuals may qualify for a premium assistance tax credit, which is

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refundable and payable in advance, to offset the cost of coverage. Individuals with health flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and similar arrangements should take a look at their spending habits for 2013 and predict how they will use these tax-favored funds in the future. In 2013, the maximum salary-reduction contribution to a health FSA is $2,500. Remember that most health FSAs have strict “use it or lose it” rules, and the cost of over-thecounter drugs cannot be reimbursed with health FSA dollars unless you obtain a prescription (there are some exceptions).

Individuals who itemize their deductions also need to keep in mind the 10 percent floor for qualified medical expenses. This change took effect at the beginning of 2013. It means that you can only claim deductions for medical expenses when they reach 10 percent of adjusted gross income (for regular tax purposes and for alternative minimum tax purposes). There is a temporary exception for individuals over age 65 for regular tax purposes. planning for retirement s av i n g s

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Year-end is a good time to review whether your retirement savings plans and tax strategies complement each other. For 2013, the maximum amount of contributions that can be made to an IRA is $5,500, with a $1,000 catch-up amount allowed for individuals over age 50. Keep in mind that the maximum amount that can be contributed to a Roth IRA begins to decrease once a taxpayer’s adjusted gross income crosses a certain threshold.

Please note that 2013 contributions, for tax purposes, may be made until April 15, 2014.

Traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs are very different savings vehicles. A traditional IRA or Roth IRA set up years ago may not be the best savings vehicle today or for the immediate future if employment and other personal circumstances have changed. Some individuals may be contemplating rolling over a workplace retirement plan into an IRA. Very

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complex rules apply in these situations and rollovers should be carefully planned. The same is true in converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA and vice-versa.

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Ghost of Tax Year Past Feeling overwhelmed by all the new strategies? You’re not alone. “In a year like this with lots of tax changes, clients can feel inundated and it can seem overwhelming,” Hylton says.

But no need to worry, traditional year-end planning techniques remain important for 2013. Maybe you want to go ‘Old School’: using income deferral and deduction and credit acceleration to reduce individual tax liability.

Deferring income will be advantageous as long as the deferral does not bump your income to the next tax bracket. Deferring income could be disadvantageous, however, if your deferred income is subject to Internal Revenue Code §409A, thus making the income includable in gross income and subject to additional tax.

Alternately, in certain circumstances, you may benefit by accelerating income into 2013. For example, you may anticipate being in a higher tax bracket in 2014, or perhaps you will need additional income in 2013 in order to take advantage of an offsetting deduction or credit that will not be available to you in future tax years. Note, however, that accelerating income into 2013 generally will be unwise if you expect to be in the same or lower tax bracket for 2014.

Ghost of Tax Year Future Obsessed with taxes? Can’t wait to find out what’s in store next year? You might want to consider taking up a hobby. Or perhaps it’s time to finally go for your C.P.A. Here’s an insider tip: the job of a C.P.A. may involve more than you bargain for.

Johnson was surprised when a client shared some intimate photos with her. “It was pictures taken after a surgery. I wasn’t prepared for that! I think it was the torso,” Johnson recalls. “But I don’t have a strong stomach when it comes to that type of thing—hence why I’m an accountant!”

C.P.A.’s are expected to keep many secrets as well. Hylton remembers a married couple he advised, “They got married with a big wedding and spectacular honeymoon, then secretly divorced a few days after.” To this day no one knows, except Hylton and a few thousand IRS employees. Just think, your best friends, or even your parents, may not actually be married anymore.

Carter, P.C., with locations in Asheville and Charlotte, is especially aware of big changes in North Carolina state taxes coming up in 2014, and offers us a sneak peek. Hylton notes, “North Carolina passed a law this year that means big changes.” Two of the biggest changes will have far-reaching consequences.

The first, for individual returns, is that they are doing away with all itemized deductions except up to $20,000 in mortgage interest and real estate taxes combined, although an unlimited charitable donation deduction still remains. The medical

Perhaps all this talk of taxes seems excessive, but just remember this: there’s no more sobering cure for a New Year’s Day hangover than, “Oops, I forgot about my taxes.”

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local industry

Holiday Wrap up

sweaters with ‘IRS’ cleverly crocheted to look like candy-canes?

How about having the kids make ornaments that say ‘happy tax time’, or bake some holiday cookies in the shape of dollar signs; it’s never too early to educate children on the joys of adulthood.

Or consider a Hanukkah candle with ‘money’ engraved on it; taxes are sure to enter your subconscious as you watch your ‘money’ slowly burn away.

Perhaps all this talk of taxes seems excessive, but just remember this: there’s no more sobering cure for a New Year’s Day hangover than, “Oops, I forgot about my taxes.”

Johnson loves what she does, “It doesn’t seem like work,” she says. But she admits getting people to think about taxes is challenging at this time of year. One approach Dixon Hughes Goodman uses is to send out Thanksgiving cards to show appreciation to clients for their business. This subtle reminder can spark a call and in the end save clients money.

Subtle reminders are something we can all take advantage of when it comes to taxes. How about matching Christmas

IRS Circular 230 Notice: To comply with certain IRS regulations regarding tax advice, we are required by law, 31 CFR 10, to inform you that, unless expressly stated otherwise, any tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used for purposes of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code, or (2) promoting , marketing or recommending to any party any transaction addressed herein, however remote.

expense deduction has been taken away, as well as the property tax deduction on vehicles and boats. So in 2014, a client with a large house with high mortgage interest may not get to deduct the full amount.

The second big change is that business owners used to be able to deduct up to $50,000 of business income on their personal tax return, but this deduction will soon no longer exist.

Glossary NII - Net Investment Income - Income received from investment assets (before taxes) such as bonds, stocks, mutual funds, loans and other investments (less related expenses).

Capital Gains - 1. Profit that results when the price of a security held by a mutual fund rises above its purchase price and the security is sold (realized gain). If the security continues to be held, the gain is unrealized. A capital loss would occur when the opposite takes place.

2. An increase in the value of a capital asset (investment or real estate) that gives it a higher worth than the purchase price. The gain is not realized until the asset is sold.

Dividends - A distribution of a portion of a company's earnings, decided by the board of directors, to a class of its shareholders. The dividend is most

34

| December 2013

often quoted in terms of the dollar amount each share receives (dividends per share).

2. A company's revenue minus cost of goods sold. Also called "gross margin" and "gross profit."

FSA - Flexible Spending Accounts - Allows an employee to set aside a portion of earnings to pay for qualified expenses as established in the “cafeteria plan” (see Section 25 of the Internal Revenue Code), most commonly for medical expenses but often for dependent care or other expenses. Money deducted from an employee's pay into an FSA is not subject to payroll taxes, resulting in substantial payroll tax savings.

IRA’s - Traditional and Roth IRAs are established by individual taxpayers, who are allowed to contribute 100% of compensation (self-employment income for sole proprietors and partners) up to a set maximum dollar amount. Contributions to the Traditional IRA may be tax deductible depending on the taxpayer's income, tax filing status and coverage by an employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Roth IRA contributions are not tax-deductible.

Deduction - Any item or expenditure subtracted from gross income to reduce the amount of income subject to tax.

Gross Income - 1. An individual's total personal income before taking taxes or deductions into account.

Internal Revenue Code Section 409 - You’ll want to ask a licensed tax professional for a useful definition, not us…

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by CAMILLE STIMACH

Keep It Simple, Part I:

C

camille is Founder and Executive Director of Dollars and Common Sense.

Dry, lengthy, wordy and boring are just a few of the words that come to mind when trying to read about credit, whether it be credit scores, interest rates or how to build credit. I often wondered why young adults are financially illiterate, and it is because so many adults and parents don’t understand the basics of credit themselves. There are adults who have learned the wrong way, never learned at all, or just don’t care.

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| December 2013

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In the last few years I have been teaching financial literacy in the schools, I have been told that you cannot teach middle school aged children about credit, they are too young and they will not understand it. Let me just debunk that myth right now. Out of all 12 grades I teach, middle school aged students probably understand the concept of credit better than most adults I had as customers when I worked in banking. Credit on a very basic level is quite simple to understand, it is all in how it is explained and delivered. Part of the reason young children understand credit better is partly due to where they are developmentally and socially.

The trick to explaining credit is putting it in a scenario that flows and covers all parts: credit, credit scores, interest, and interest rates. Now please don’t misunderstand me, I am not trying to imply that all these topics are not more in depth once you dive into them. What I am suggesting is that when you teach these definitions on a basic level you are laying the foundation, and then when it is time to get deeper into credit scoring or interest rates, it is easier to follow with the basics covered.

This is one of the scenarios I give to my 7th and 8th graders.

I walk into a Subaru dealership looking to buy a new car and the one I find and want to buy is $30,000. The salesman tells me I will have to go see Bob in finance, who is in charge of loans. If I don’t have $30,000 dollars on me, I am going to need Subaru to give me a loan, or in other words, extend me credit. Before Bob considers giving me a car loan he will have to look at my credit report and most importantly my credit score. Bob needs to know how trustworthy I am. Does my score reflect that I pay my debts on time or that I do not pay my debts on time. (We go over the score chart as well.) If Bob deems my score to be really bad, he will not give me a loan. If my score is acceptable and he gives me a loan, he then will determine my interest rate. My question to the kids is this, “If Subaru is going to lend me $30,000 up front, do you think they might want something a little extra in return?” There is a resounding yes from the class. That little extra they want is called interest. Interest in a nutshell means

“If Subaru is going to lend me $30,000 up front, do you think they might want something a little extra in return?”

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you are going to pay some extra money for someone letting you borrow money up front. Not hard for the students to put that together. My credit score will determine how much “extra” I will pay. If my score is high, my interest rates are lower, and if my score is low, my interest rates will be higher and I will pay a lot extra.

As I said earlier, there is a lot more to cover when it comes to credit scoring; how to build it, how it can be ruined, what affects scoring, what doesn’t, different interest rates for different loan products and the impact of interest, but all that comes later with my students as they continue to progress through middle school and high school. Having that basic understanding of credit, though, will make the more in depth conversations that much easier to understand. Credit does not have to be hard, but it does have to be learned earlier rather than later.

There are so many misconceptions about what actually helps your credit and what hurts it. Many people don’t realize that when they have excellent credit scores (720 and higher) they are in a place to negotiate interest rates with their credit card providers and get their rates lowered. When I was in banking and would talk to my customers about their credit, they would tell me that they had always paid their rent and utility bills (phone, cable, water, electric or internet) on time so their credit should be really good. The only debts that matter to the credit bureaus are those of a revolving or installment nature of money that was lent to you. The only time monthly home bills affect your score is if you don’t pay them and get turned over to a collection agency, and then, believe me, your score will be affected but not in a good way. People sometimes believe they should always leave a balance on their credit card.

This is not true; please pay in full if you can. Something I tell my students is that credit is king. When they become adults, future employers will look at their credit score, and if they ever need to rent an apartment or home, their credit will be reviewed. These are just a few of the misconceptions surrounding credit, but when people know the truths around credit and understand that credit can make their lives much easier, financially speaking, we will all be better off.

Many people don’t realize that when they have excellent credit scores (720 and higher) they are in a place to negotiate interest rates with their credit card providers and get their rates lowered.

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Leisure&Libation

4 5 3 1 2 Sweet&Savory seasonal selections

writ ten by dasha o . morgan

gypsy bee p. 42

asheville brew bites p. 44

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photos by anthony harden

blue bl a ze soda p. 46

high fiber co . p. 48

16 17 18 19

smart mrs . evans p. 50

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L&L With the stockings almost hung, and gift giving just about to begin, most of us are looking for the perfect gift—something appropriate, something interesting, something a little different. Enjoy a look at these Sweet and Savory items produced by budding entrepreneurs in the Western Carolinas.

Each has taken the courageous step to produce a product that embodies their 21st century education. These items are healthy, organic, natural, and the result of dedicated and passionate people, who want to make a difference in the world. Their principles shine through into their product. I ask that when you find yourself in need of some extra stocking stuffers, please think of them.

A MAGICAL CHILDHOOD ADVENTURE INSPIRES A BUSINESS Gypsy Bee™

Sherrye Perry’s concern and love for honeybees pointed the direction to a new business venture almost two years ago. She wanted to take her passion for beekeeping a step further by turning raw, unfiltered honey from her six hives in Madison County into an all natural skin and bath product, marketing under the Gypsy Bee™ brand name. She notes that, “The intrinsic nature of honey is ideal for the skin, acting as a natural humectant (it retains or preserves moisture) with exceptional antibacterial properties.” Thus including pure honey as an ingredient in her soaps, skin balms, sea salts for bath soaking, and loofah exfoliant, seemed like a sensible way to nourish the skin.

Many of the natural ingredients are taken from their garden and farm to produce these all organic products. The lavender, peppermint, chamomile, and thyme are harvested from the garden and dried for a botanical addition. For those who have a sensitivity to any essential oils or fragrances, there are two unscented soaps: the Buttermilk, Oatmeal and Honey bar and the Goatmilk, Oatmeal and Honey. There are traditional scents of lavender, chamomile, and a Persian vanilla bean soap. One of the local favorites is the North Carolina Tobacco Road bar, which has a very unusual fragrance. Both men and women enjoy it, but men are particularly

fond of it. Tobacco flowers and caramel are combined to make an intoxicating fragrance. Other one-of-a-kind popular scents are Gypsy Wood and Malabar Green. The EKHO Balm, a rich emollient, is made with a proprietary blend of African shea butter, essential oils, and, of course, pure honey. It sinks into the skin and nourishes the cells. The soaking salts combine a variety of sea salts, botanicals, essential oils and honey and are packaged in a classic 16 ounce French square glass container with their unique fragrances—On the Shore, In the Desert, and At the Grove.

The honeybee theme is an important part of the marketing, and Perry is driven to share the message of the global dilemma facing all pollinators. Together with Jeffrey Barnes of J. Barnes Design they created the packaging and marketing plans for the product. Jeffrey is a graphic designer, whom Perry says “is wonderful and so talented.”

Each bar of soap is created in a honeycomb pattern, and a custom designed bee box display is offered to retailers for a compact and visual point of purchase. Signature soaps for resorts and spas have been successful as a marketing idea. Perry has created signature fragrances for several retailers. The Gallery of the Mountains at The Grove Park Inn boasts their Sunset at the Grove fragrance and the Hot Springs Resort and Spa lovingly remembers a family member with their signature Sweet Melissa soap.

So how did Perry decide on the name Gypsy Bee™ Brand?

A childhood adventure at the age of five brought this to pass.

These were real live gypsies. It was a magical, unforgettable sight, which ended up giving her the inspiration for the name for her company: Gypsy Bee™.

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sherrye perry (left)

at her farm in Marshall

She explains, “One day while playing in the open fields, my friends and I began roaming farther from home (near Nashville, Tennessee) until we found ourselves at the edge of a nearby woods. Tucked in and around the giant trees that surrounded the bare patch of forest floor was a remarkable sight—ornately decorated wagons trimmed in crimson and ochre, horses with glittering red and gold harnesses, and gaily dressed people draped in azure-fringed shawls and dangling jewelry.” These were real live gypsies. It was a magical, unforgettable sight, which ended up giving her the inspiration for the name for her

company: Gypsy Bee™. “I have clung to that vision that spoke of freedom, beauty, creativity and adventure, and I pray I never settle for anything less,” she said.

Perry’s natural bath and skin care products can be found in many stores in Asheville and the surrounding area: Mast General Store, the North Carolina Arboretum, The Compleat Naturalist, Carolina Moon in Lake Lure, and Twigs and Leaves in Waynesville. If those shops are not convenient, these fragrant and skin nourishing products can also be ordered online at www.gypsybee.com.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 43

L&L

rust y & mary bryant at the

Montford Farmer’s Market

BIOCHEMIST RECYCLES BREWERS YEAST INTO TASTY TREAT Asheville Brew Bites

“Once a scientist, always a scientist” seems to be true for “Rusty” Bryant of Asheville Flavor Innovation, LLC. Having ended a long career as a biochemist with Schering-Plough Research Institute, Rusty and his wife, Mary, came from Princeton, New Jersey, to Asheville to help their son and daughter-in-law renovate and repurpose the Old Earl-Chesterfield Mill and Hatchery in the River Arts District into the Hatchery Studios, home to six artists’ studios and the White Duck Taco.

Liking what they saw in Western North Carolina, the Bryants decided to move here permanently. Once here, Rusty became 44

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dried hops

familiar with the problem the Craft Brewers were having with their yeast byproduct.

Having found a wonderful resource for pure water, many new breweries have sprouted up in the last few years, but what useful purpose could be made of the nutritional byproduct from the spent yeast used by these regional craft breweries? Could it be fed to animals or made into a healthy gourmet treat?

Drs. Bryant and Seth B. Cohen, Appalachian State, Boone, conducted studies and experiments, which they presented this past May at the 75th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Brewing Chemists (ASBC), in Tucson, Arizona. They spoke about the Characterization of Spent Brewer’s Yeast as a Food Additive. They described the problems of the disposal of spent yeast for Craft Brewers. Large amounts are generated, 5-10 lbs. per barrel, or up to five tons of yeast waste per week. It is not

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 45

L&L well tolerated by livestock and can cause bloating. However, it could have potential health benefits to humans—helping with diabetes, chronic liver disease, menopause, sleep and obesity.

The bitter hop acids, which are abundant in spent craft yeast, are anti-inflammatory and have anti-tumor properties as shown in several biochemical studies. The major problem seems to be the bitter taste of the hop rich yeast. How can that be overcome?

Does anyone remember taking Brewer’s Yeast tablets as a child for its high concentration of B vitamins? Perhaps you can even remember how bitter they were!

The Bryants experimented with over forty recipes to find something that would be tasty and edible. Rusty has also worked in New Jersey as a flavor chemist which was helpful in their search. At first they leaned toward a spent yeast spread, such as Marmite, a dark jam-like paste that is popular in some parts of Europe. But after offering their homemade product to the grandchildren and seeing the horrified reaction to the taste, the idea was abandoned. Then they tried beer pretzels, cheese sticks, biscuits, cookies and brownies.

Finally Rusty and Mary landed upon a recipe for a small chocolate confection, which seems marketable and had a unique flavor. The Blue Ridge Food Venture Kitchens rents them space in Enka to produce it. Oscar Wong of Highland Brewery supplies the yeast slurry, which they pasteurize and spin down, then add ingredients and cook into a sweet confection. The husband and wife team have created Asheville Brew Bites, a small nutritionally packed gourmet treat. This chocolate confection contains 5% Brewer’s Yeast paste. It is like a small, very rich brownie square with a hint of tartness. Many will find it the perfect finale to a meal, perhaps after dinner with a sip of espresso. The Bryants sell them on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the North Asheville Tailgate Market on the UNC Asheville campus, Wednesday afternoons at the Montford Farmers Market, and soon in a few local stores. They plan to be at the HandMade in America Craft Market at 125 Lexington Avenue, December 13, 14, and 15th. At long last there is a healthy brownie to eat; be sure to try a Brew Bite. You will want to give some to friends.

BUBBLING OVER WITH A REFRESHMENT MADE WITH THE “REAL STUFF” Blue Blaze Soda

How many of us have been looking for a healthy, refreshing non-alcoholic drink, something new and exciting, not just the same ole, same ole? Finally something has arrived in the marketplace, and it is more delicious, totally refreshing and certainly healthier than most—something with a bit of fizz and flavor, something made from real ingredients taken from the earth, not manufactured in a laboratory. Jackson Anderson with his Blue Blaze Soda Company has found the right combination 46

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for some wonderful thirst quenchers. His concentrates have unusual distinctive flavors with remarkably refreshing taste, which he makes locally at the Blue Ridge Food Ventures kitchens in Enka. All you have to do is add some carbonated water to fill your glass. This allows you to determine the level of sweetness for your own drink.

All Jackson’s concentrates are made with real fruits and fruit juices, wild spices such as vanilla bean and cinnamon, pure cane sugar—not high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners—wild herbs and only the freshest of ingredients.

There is certainly no caffeine. Jackson buys locally as much as possible. He uses real birch bark and wild cherry bark from the tree to flavor his Birch Beer. Most root beers consist of extracts of these products, but using the real ingredient allows a more distinctive taste and flavor to come through which you don’t get with extracts. The flavors currently offered are Honey Ginger Ale, Red Grenadine, Birch Beer, Orange Dreamsicle, Elderberry Hibiscus, and Strawberry Lemongrass.

And some receiving raving reviews are Orange Dreamsicle and Birch Beer.

The Orange Dreamsicle makes a heavenly mimosa with champagne.

A glass of soda averages around 70 calories and has around 16 to 19 grams of sugar (1½ tablespoons). In comparison, the average soda (Coke, etc.) has twice the amount with around 140 calories and 3½ tablespoons of sugar. Jackson uses local honey in the Honey Ginger Ale and the Elderberry Hibiscus soda.

The Elderberry Hibiscus is sweetened with Haw Creek Honey from Greg Rogers, organic agave nectar and real elderberry, but the Honey Ginger Ale has some additional pure cane sugar. The fruit juice drinks only use the finest and best ingredients, and the quantities needed are large. He looks for local sources, but when Jackson can’t find the produce locally, he buys Natalie’s Orchard Island Juice, which is known for its freshness and incredible flavor.

So how did this label and name come into being? Jackson and his lovely enthusiastic wife, Zanne Garland, who is the Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations at Carolina Day School, met while hiking on a Blue Blaze Trail, as Zanne was hiking the Appalachian Trail. When it was hot and they needed some water and to cool down near a stream, they looked for the blue strip

All Jackson’s concentrates are made with real fruits and fruit juices, wild spices such as vanilla bean and cinnamon, pure cane sugar, wild herbs and only the freshest of ingredients.

L&L

jackson anderson ,

founder of Blue Blaze Soda

of paint which led them to the nearest water source. So what better name could be thought of than Blue Blaze Trail Syrup and Soda Company? Thus Jackson decided on a name that symbolized “a path to refreshment,” and a slogan appropriate for his product.

Besides being a thirst quenching and often unusual drink, this syrup or concentrate has many other uses. The Honey Ginger Ale can be combined with soy and ginger. It can be combined with other ingredients (for example, Worcestershire Sauce) to produce a delicious marinade or glaze for barbecuing. It can be a fresh ingredient to add for a sophisticated cocktail—such as an Elderberry Margarita or Red Grenadine Cosmopolitan—or for an easy fix to dress up a dessert, just pour some syrup over your ice cream or cake. As Jackson explores the company’s many possibilities, there is no doubt that this is a work in progress. He is taking new steps every day. After all he only started his company last April. Every day some new idea evolves.

The soda is now available for fountain machines. Does anyone

remember sitting at a soda fountain and having a drink with friends? And the Vault downtown has decided to have the Birch Beer, a non-alcoholic drink on tap for their customers. And as of early November their website—www.blueblazesodaco.com—is up and running.

So are you thirsty and looking forward to trying this at home?

Where can you find a bottle to buy in a store? It is sold at the new Katuah Market in Asheville, the West Village Market, the Double Crown, and the Walk in West Asheville, the Merry Wine Market and Artisan Gourmet in Black Mountain, Meanwhile: Specialty Shop in Saluda and at the Black Mountain Tailgate Market on Saturdays. The product will be at the HandMade in America Holiday Market Dec.13-15 on Lexington Avenue in Asheville. Of course, you can now purchase online as well.

Jackson Anderson has certainly made amazing progress in a very short period of time to develop and market his Blue Blaze Soda and Syrup Company. Be sure to have some on hand for the holidays. It will make your evening and parties more festive.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 47

L&L

THE HIGH FIBER COMPANY FOCUSES ON THE NATURAL AND ORGANIC High Fiber Co.

Daphne Cohan, an energetic lady, takes organic cloth and creates appealing tea towels, napkins, sandwich and produce bags, t-shirts for small children (onesies), and many other items for her friends and customers. She has made some delightful designs with all types of vegetables, fruits, dinosaurs, alligators, mushrooms, cats and other animals. You can find linen kitchen towels with small red onions, red radishes and orange carrots appliquéd on them. There are reusable colorful sandwich bags (a purple eggplant or how about a big red tomato?) with a velcro closing and nylon washable lining, sets of reusable 16” square cloth napkins, and decorated tea towels. By working with Spoonflower in Durham, Daphne now designs some of her own fabrics. In addition, she has learned by trial and error to screen print the fabric. “It is so much fun to do this. I prefer not to use any other person’s fabric design, but that is hard,” she said. “There is only so much time in a day.”

The reception to her line has allowed her company to grow steadily over the years, particularly with a husband and three children in three different schools to take care of. Everything is

produced in her studio in Weaverville. Friends began by asking Daphne to make them the sandwich bag that she had made for her young daughter’s lunches. Then she tried her hand at other items and began to sell a few. She started her business in 2009.

Challenges for large orders have helped her to learn and grow.

When Umba Box asked her to deliver from 75 to 100 sets of handmade napkins in three weeks, she realized that she could handle larger orders. This was a giant step forward.

Daphne started sewing at an early age, perhaps seven or eight.

She loved her Barbie doll, and when her mother’s friend gave her a bag of vintage scraps, the process began. She began making clothes for her beloved doll—by hand with no machines. Of course coming from a family where both parents were carpenters and were always constructing something may have helped the process along. However, working in wood did not appeal; she preferred working with fabric.

Daphne and her husband, Ed, who is the General Manager of Green Sage on Hendersonville Road in Asheville, like to tone down consumerism. They don’t want to be a part of the consumer society. They believe in recycling and want to make good earth friendly decisions. “Using made in America fibers is important to me. I would love to have only American grown fibers, and the resurgence of U.S. cotton availability has given me hope. It is a lot easier to find organic cotton now than

I would love to have only American grown fibers, and the resurgence of U.S. cotton availability has given me hope.

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when I started,” Daphne said. She turns to Near Sea Naturals right here in Asheville, who sell fabrics that are made with United States grown certified organic fibers that are finished and dyed in the USA, a wonderful resource. However, with so many restrictions on hemp, she finds it is practically impossible to find it made in this country. So she uses an organic cotton and hemp blend from China that is fairly made and gives the workers a living wage. She also buys some European linen.

Daphne’s handmade wares are sold at many tailgate markets, such as the Asheville City Market on Saturdays and occasionally at the North Asheville Tailgate Market on the UNC Asheville campus. They can be found at the newly opened Duncan and York, and Garage 34 in Asheville, Wood & Spoon in West Asheville, Livi’s Pantry in Woodfin and AllGood Coffee shop in Weaverville. She plans to be at the Big Crafty Holiday Fair in Pack Place on Sunday, December 1st from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Daphne travels a lot to many craft shows up and down the East Coast, from Gainesville, Florida to Blacksburg, Virginia.

These usually have to be very quick day trips, leaving at the crack of dawn and returning late at night. As this is truly a one woman show with Ed helping only as his busy schedule allows, there is very little “down or do-nothing” time. She is a busy energetic person, particularly during the holidays. To see her collection, or to order something for Christmas, just go to www.etsy.com/shop/thehighfiberco. Orders are individually filled in approximately five to seven days.

daphne cohan , founder of High Fiber Co.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 49

L&L

THE QUEEN OF CLEAN— A GENTLE LAUNDRY DETERGENT Smart Mrs. Evans

Two close friends, Amy and Rachael, have gone into business together here in Asheville. Amazingly they both have the same last name, Evans, but are not related. They happen to live next door to each other in Oakley and obviously enjoy each other’s company, laughing a lot over the path they have chosen—to produce a cottage industry product. The new business is rapidly spreading by word of mouth. People seem to need and want to buy their gentle-to-the skin detergent. In a very few months of selling the product, there certainly seems to be a demand. Their neighbors come by and just leave their bottles to be refilled at the door with a note or check.

People seem to just love the fact that this detergent, Smart Mrs. Evans, has a lovely smell, makes a handsome presentation in the 25 or 64 ounce clear glass bottle, and actually gets the dirt out of the clothes—even bike grease, wine and spaghetti sauce, all vanished. Customers who use it to clean cloth diapers (which has been making a comeback) have found that it leaves no soap residue on the diapers and is less expensive than the commercial detergent they usually use. The soap is 50

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so gentle, Amy even uses it to launder her great grandmother’s vintage table linens. The old-timey label with a portrait of two old-fashioned damsels glancing over their shoulder, says “Smart Mrs. Evans, strong on tough stains and gentle on sensitive skin.

Mrs. Evans is the Queen of Clean!” As dryer products are often toxic to sensitive skin, they have developed an all natural dryer sachet as well.

In this case, necessity was the mother of invention. Amy has suffered all her life with skin that reacts violently to the chemicals found in ordinary laundry detergent. Chemicals and synthetic fragrance typically used in commercial detergents irritate her eczema and psoriasis. Unfortunately, many people have a problem with this. Combining the need for a gentile detergent that really cleaned, and their love for all things DIY (do-it-yourself), Rachael and Amy looked up what types of soap were used back in the day with washboards. How did they used to get the clothes clean in the mountains and on farms? After researching and studying possible combinations of recipes, Rachael and Amy have come up with a home cooked liquid detergent that smells delicious and is amazingly effective.

The detergent is certainly made dye-free with all natural ingredients and a popular fragrance is lavender, or sometimes geranium or basil, if they are in season. The soap can be used both with hot or cold water when washing, as it is a liquid. When making the product, Rachael and Amy heat up and stir borax, washing soda, Fels-Naptha, and essential oils on the stove in the kitchen of Amy’s cottage, for almost two hours, and then after it has cooled, pour the ingredients into attractive bottles, attaching an attractive old-fashioned label, Smart Mrs. Evans.

The soap is ready to sell.

Rachael is a DIY Blogger (www.lovelycraftyhome.com), and Amy is employed as a full-time market researcher. Consequently this detergent is made only in their spare time. It is cost prohibitive to ship the glass bottles, so right now the exclusive shop to carry the detergent in Asheville is Duncan and York, which recently opened on Rankin Avenue. A 25 ounce bottle is $12.00 and a 64 ounce is $28.00 The dryer sachets, which can be used many times, are $6.00. Customers can bring their bottles back to be refilled at a reduced price. They do have a website www.smartmrsevans.com. So if you, or someone in your family, suffer from allergies, eczema or sensitive skin, be sure to use this gentle product for your laundry. They will certainly thank you for your new purchase.

For more info on these seasonal selections and the entrepreneurs that create them, scan this QR code or visit capitalatplay.com/sweet-savory-2013

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Wick & Greene Jewelers written by arthur treff photos by linda d . cluxton & anthony harden

The young boy sits at a workbench next to his dad, mesmerized by the tools, sights and sounds. He is amazed by what he sees: pieces of shiny metal are cut into wonderful shapes and neatly arranged, then…

A torch pops to life, the soft hissing pushes out the prettiest multicolored flame, which turns the metal to tiny, silver puddles: it’s Magic! His Dad, Paul, moves the torch until all the pieces have been mysteriously joined together. The lad giggles his delight.

He loves coming to the shop with dad; it’s never boring, because most days, he is encouraged to pick up a tool and work on his own. His name is Michael Greene, and this scene took place back in 1959.

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L

ittle did Michael know that he would become a Registered Jeweler, a Graduate Gemologist (Gemological Institute of America), a Certified Gemologist and a Certified Gemologist Appraiser (American Gem Society).

Nor could he foretell that by 2012 he would be in charge of his father’s business: Wick and Greene Jewelers, a store that has been creating, selling and repairing custom jewelry for the citizens of Asheville since 1926.

Michael Greene is the third generation of jewelers in the family business, but to understand the magnitude of that statement,

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the story needs to be told from the very beginning.

In 1926, two craftsmen from Tiffany & Co. left New York City to become self-employed in Asheville. One was a talented silversmith named Paul Greene; the other was an enamelist, engraver and jeweler named Ernie Wick. They opened separate shops in the booming little city, where retail space on Haywood Street commanded identical rates to New York’s 5th Avenue, but with a better quality of life.

While Paul hammered and soldered silver into wedding gifts and sports trophies, his son, Paul, Jr., sat beside him, absorbing the craft. Years later, the boy was a young man of 14 when his

dad, the silversmith, died suddenly.

Driven by the need to earn a living and influenced by his love of working with silver, Paul, Jr., offered himself as an apprentice to Ernie Wick, the jeweler across town. Under Mr. Wick’s tutelage the young man improved his silversmithing skills and learned jewelry fabrication and repair. He also mastered the extremely demanding craft of hand engraving.

By 1953, Paul Greene, Jr., became a full partner in a new venture: Wick and Greene Jewelers. Six years later, Ernie Wick died, but Paul and his wife, Lucia, decided to carry on, retaining Wick alongside Greene on the storefront sign.

“Paul had good hands,” says Lucia Greene, “he could fix anything. Folks brought him damaged heirlooms and he could revive them, whether it was straightening a dent in a silver teapot or resetting a diamond.”

Lucia and Paul had a son named Michael, the boy who appeared in the beginning of this story. By age seven, other boys his age were building airplane models, but Michael made jewelry…the Greene apples, it seems, never fall far from the tree.

In his Dad’s shop, young Michael discovered WWII insignia that Wick and Greene had used to fashion military jewelry during the war. He had a perfectly boyish idea: he’d make his

Under Mr. Wick’s tutelage the young man improved his silversmith skills and learned jewelry fabrication and repair. He also mastered the extremely demanding craft of hand engraving.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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front row : (left to right) Eva Greene, Lucia Greene, Eva-Michelle Greene second row : Michael Greene, Emily Reback, Lauren Keys, Elliott Spicer back row : Aimee Hanna, J. Michael Tracey, Doug Canivet, Samuel Corwin

own line of military rings for his friends. Yes, if you were lucky enough to ‘play army’ with Michael Greene, you were given a silver ring bearing the insignia of the particular branch of the military you represented.

Michael served a childhood apprenticeship to his father, and in 1975 became a full partner alongside his mom and dad.

In 1986 the store was moved into their current location at 121 Patton Ave. Paul Jr. and his family grew the jewelry store business with hard work, dedication and a desire to be better every day. The store is open six days a week, (seven during holidays) and if the lights are on, the Greene family is there.

On November 6, 2011 Paul Greene Jr., the second-generation Greene Jeweler, passed away due to mesothelioma. Sixty-nine of his 83 years were spent working the craft learned from his father and Mr. Wick. True to his hardworking nature, Paul was 56

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riding his motorcycle and working in the store two weeks before he passed.

Paul made countless friends and contributed lavishly to many local charities during his lifetime. It was no surprise to anyone that his funeral became an outpouring of community gratitude; it seemed as though every soul he touched attended.

His legacy of hard work and customer commitment lives on through the extended Greene family and their loyal employees.

Wick and Greene is happy to report that the economic downturn has not affected their business significantly. Michael believes the key is a diversified product offering as well as a broad range of customers.

“Teenagers as well as octogenarians shop here,” says Michael. “We have high quality jewelry from the 25 dollar range all the way to diamonds.”

Citizens of Asheville and the surrounding counties have

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always been the mainstay of the family business. Now that trend has expanded to include second-home owners; the part-time residents who spend half the year in the mountains have also become loyal customers.

Asheville’s ever-increasing popularity as a vacation and retirement destination has broadened another customer segment: weddings. Yes, the city has become a leading national wedding destination, and the store has serviced this market very successfully.

Couples from out of town who have purchased rings or gifts for the wedding party return on a regular basis for anniversary and sentimental gifts, largely because the store has earned their trust.

“As a small business owner, one of the things that keeps me up at night is customer satisfaction: does Wick and Greene still offer an exciting shopping experience?”

The family’s attention to this detail is immediately apparent when the shop door closes behind a customer. Feet sink into deep carpets. Ears are soothed by classical music at just the right volume, freeing the eyes to wander. The room is filled with natural light, which makes the silver and gold treasures stand out like individual stars against black velvet.

“The fourth generation of anything, let alone a local business, is no longer commonplace.

I am extremely grateful to the three generations that precede me.”

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| December 2013

the 4 th gener ation :

Eva-Michelle Greene and Elliott Spicer.

a piece of greene history :

these silver pieces were handmade by Paul Greene, Sr.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 59

The store exudes a relaxed confidence through the friendly staff, all of whom are accredited gemologists, each seeking the ultimate title of American Gem Society (AGS) Certified Gemologist. This is a key ingredient in Wick and Greene’s employee strategy because it builds a customer’s trust.

Everyone wants to buy from an informed source.

The AGS was created to maintain a high level of ethics, education and consumer protection within the business. Certification

Jewelers International. This coveted prize is awarded to the upper 1% of stores in the trade worldwide. This title, granted by invitation only, puts Wick and Greene alongside less than 100 other stores in the United States who bear the title.

Creativity is another component of an exciting shopping experience. It’s the joy shared by jeweler and customer. This nugget has clearly been passed across generations of Greenes via the passion for their work.

always well accessorized ,

the Wick and Greene building dressed for the holidays

by AGS cannot be purchased; it is earned. Ninety-five percent of applicants to AGS are turned down and certificate holders are retested annually by the society. Wick and Greene Jewelers has two Certified Gemologist Appraisers on staff, the only location between Knoxville and Charlotte to do so.

Building customer trust doesn’t stop with AGS, however. Wick and Greene has also achieved a position on the list of Preferred

“My favorite part of this job is helping someone create the ultimate piece,” says Michael Greene. “If it’s a gift for a loved one, I want to make that person a hero, secure in the knowledge that this piece will become a future family heirloom. It’s what gets me excited about coming to work every day.”

Everything that leaves the store is evaluated for design quality, color, balance, workmanship and reflection of light; whether it (continued on page 62)

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| December 2013

Historical Insight When you see it for the first time, there is something very familiar about the shape of the Wick and Greene building. It fits nicely into the surrounding architecture both in size and exterior finish, (Aloft hotel chain: take note), yet it doesn’t look like any of the other retail shops downtown.

If we were driving a car through Asheville in the 1920’s, we might have run into W.C. ‘Bert’ Shuey, the local Shell gasoline distributor. Bert had the idea that he could attract more customers if he created the most modern filling stations ever seen.

So he did. With the help of Asheville architect, W. Stewart Rogers, of the iconic firm, Greene and Rogers, he built a string of Art Deco styled filling stations throughout Buncombe County in 1928.

It turns out that theirs is the last surviving example of Roger’s filling station design. Wick and Greene have turned the building into the stately structure that anchors the corner of Patton Ave and Otis Street.

The Greene family renovated the building in 1986, a time when downtown businesses were flocking to outlying malls. They were some of the first visionaries of the downtown revival that we now enjoy.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 61

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has been manufactured by a vendor or custom created on the bench. This level of creativity and attention to detail has been passed down through three generations of Greenes… …but the story doesn’t stop there. One Saturday, many years ago, the store was short handed. His four-year-old daughter, Eva-Michelle, asked Michael if she could help somehow.

“Apparently, I wasn’t prone to baby talk, so I answered the phones,” says the (now) adult daughter. “I knew exactly what to say but couldn’t answer any questions, so I’d put the phone down and get an adult to help me.”

Eva-Michelle was smitten with watching her father and grandfather work at a jeweler’s bench. At age seven, she would gather scraps of gold from the shop and when enough were accumu-

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| December 2013

lated, Michael would help her use a large torch to unify those scraps into a golden puddle. It’s no wonder that her favorite jewelry discipline is casting gold.

“It’s a blessing to be the fourth generation of a phenomenal business,” says Eva-Michelle. “The fourth generation of anything, let alone a local business, is no longer commonplace. I am extremely grateful to the three generations that precede me.”

She’s honoring those generations by applying herself fully to the family trade. A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, who attained a BA in entrepreneurship and business, Eva-Michelle has attended the Gemological Institute of American in Carlsbad, California, where she earned a Graduate Gemologist diploma.

Before she could become a partner in the business, however, the family stipulated that Eva-Michelle apprentice at another jewelry outfit after graduation. Smart thinking. Every company

routinely needs new blood to fuel the creative fires.

Eva-Michelle met the family requirement by working for jewelry stores in San Diego as well as Raleigh, but she brought home more than her work experience and gemologist certificate, she returned to Asheville with another jeweler, Elliott Spicer.

The pair fell in love in gem school and are engaged to be married.

Mr. Spicer is a talented bench jeweler and shares a similar background to the Greene family. His parents, after immigrating to Canada from London, operated a two-case jewelry business out of a Sears department store. From there, Spicer Jewelry grew to five stores.

What does the future hold for Asheville’s gem of jewelry stores?

Over the last year, Wick and Greene has renovated the rear of the building that fronts on Wall Street. This location, which opened in 2012, is a gateway to a younger, livelier, shopping experience called, ‘The Silver Store at Wick and Greene.’

The shop dedicates a sizable portion of floor space to design lines such as Pandora, manufactured jewelry with an artisan look, designed to allow shoppers to create their own unique pieces by mixing elements at an affordable price. It has been called ‘crack’ by women who are addicted to the excitement of customizing their own look.

Additionally, Elliott has been working with his new family on updating Wick and Greene’s computer systems. Driven by user feedback, he’s fixing or replacing anything system-related to keep the operation running smoothly.

Wick and Greene’s forte has always been custom jewelry design and fabrication, and it will continue to be according to Eva-Michelle.

“Custom jewelry is important,” says Eva-Michelle. “Everything we use today is designed by someone else: cars, phones, clothes and dishware. Other than building your own home (which is expensive), custom jewelry is the only thing we can design ourselves that will last.”

Four generations of Greenes have worked a jeweler’s bench in Asheville, a span of 86 years. Yes, it truly is a family business; the entire family is involved. What cannot be overlooked is the dedication to the craft, which has been passed from person-to-person for eight and a half decades.

Anyone with a passion for the trade can attend schools and amass certificates. What isn’t easily taught is a jeweler’s sense of taste or style. The ability to design and build pieces that will retain their appeal long into the future is a talent that must be nurtured over time.

Day by day, year after year, Greene family members work and play alongside one another, constantly exchanging ideas on how to improve all aspects of their trade: an eye for design, the hands for creating, unified by a strong sense of integrity and hard work.

It takes time to squirrel away enough spare income to purchase a custom piece of jewelry; it takes even more time to become a jewelry store people can trust.

it’s the tiMe oF Year For

reFlection As the year comes to a close, Asheville Savings Bank would like to take a moment to reflect. We’ve met many new people, built new relationships, and continued to work with dear old friends. We hope it’s been a good year for you filled with health and happiness. As you prepare for the coming holidays, we hope you find peace and joy whether you’re relaxing or celebrating with friends and family. We look forward to working with you in the New Year and wish you future success.

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December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 63

by CRAIG MADISON

The Holiday Season Taking the Seasonal Out of The Tourism Business

C

craig is the former President and CEO of The Grove Park Inn. He now runs Craig Madison Associates.

In 1979, when I first started roaming the granite hallways of The Grove Park Inn (GPI ), the Inn’s operating season reflected the tourism of the Asheville area.

The Inn would open mid-April and close it’s doors during the first week of November. GPI employed 35 full time employees and had a seasonal staff of 250. These were the days when the room rate was $59 and that included breakfast and dinner. If you haven’t heard, the rates have since gone up.

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| December 2013

D

uring that first week of November, while the last fall leaves cling stubbornly to the trees, GPI was prepared for a long winter’s nap. Dust covers were draped over the furniture, water lines were shutdown and the Great Hall became a massive storage warehouse. The single company vehicle at that time, a blue Plymouth station wagon referred to as the “Blue Goose,” was parked in the center of the lobby with sheets of cardboard placed underneath the chassis to catch the never ending dripdrip of oil leaks.

The remaining full time staff would enter in a lobby side door during the winter months and slip to the offices located under the Great Hall. The only space that still had the luxury of heat during the winter. The lobby, now fulfilling its winter duty as a storage facility, took on an eerie cast. With the 1980 release of the movie “The Shining” it became downright spooky with

everyone talking about how they expected a crazed caretaker to plow an axe through a door screaming, “Here’s Johnny.”

Like GPI, the rest of the area tourism businesses went into hibernation. The exception was Biltmore Estate, but this was before they began their now famous Chr istmas at Biltmore.

Downtown Asheville did not go into hibernation during the w inter; the empty streets and boarded up storefronts were a year round motif. Downtown was in a perceptual state of dormancy.

In 1984, two historic events occurred which began the

The rest of the area tourism businesses went into hibernation.

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December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 65

slow long term December tourism thaw. The Biltmore Estate ramped its Christmas at Biltmore and, with the completion of the Sammons Wing, The Grove Park Inn began year round operations. In 1985, the two companies led a community wide Christmas Festival named “Light Up Your Holidays.” The Asheville holiday train slowly left the station and today it’s big business for the area tourism industry.

Hotel sales as reported by the Buncombe Country Tourism Development Authority for the period:

Hotel Sales of buncombe county in 2012

month

hotel sales

July August September October November December

$20,923,669 $18,452,476 $17,675,080 $25,065,742 $17,672,705 $16,856,480

“You can see that November is virtually even with September and not far off from August! This also speaks to the smoothing of the seasonality in the Asheville area,” reports Marla Tambellini, Deputy Director Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau. An online search for downtown hotel room rates for weekends in December will quickly let you know that December is no longer an off-season.

As downtown Asheville puts on its holiday best, the thriving culinary scene throws open their doors welcoming all to come and make merry. Families getting together, friends sharing holiday cheer and that greatest holiday instructions of all- the Office Christmas Party. Phyllis Diller said it best, “What I don’t like about Office Christmas parties is having to look for a job the next day.” The holidays have become an important season for local restaurants.

“We used to have a slow period of five months during the winter,” states Jane Anderson, Executive Director of AIR (Asheville Independent Restaurants). “The holiday season has reduced that number down to three. The critical factor to sustaining our robust restaurant scene is the support of the locals through the winter months. The holidays, especially things like the Downtown Association’s Christmas parade, bring area residents into our restaurants and shops.”

Holiday visitors have the potential of becoming an annuity for tourism operators. Becoming a part of someone’s holiday tradition creates the potential of long-term repeat business. It 66

| December 2013

is a great business model. During my years at GPI, I ran into countless guests who had made a weekend stay or special night out during the holiday season as one of their annual treasured traditions. The National Gingerbread House Competition became one of the true assets of GPI having become a holiday tradition for locals and out of town visitors alike. Looking back, I wonder if anyone remembers the original gingerbread house contest being drafted on the back of a cocktail napkin after the benefit of too many vodka-tonics.

During the holidays it’s difficult to think of downtown Asheville back in the ‘80s when the tumbleweed rolled on empty streets.

In 2000, I was meeting with now NC State Senator Martin Nesbitt and then Representative Wilma Sherrill discussing how amazed we were with the boom in downtown.

Senator Nesbitt said, “Who would have ever thought that people would be paying $300,000 to buy condos on Lexington Avenue, or that people would be going to the Fine Arts Theater and talking about it at church on Sunday.” If that last line did not make any sense to you, then you are definitely a part of the ‘new era’ Asheville.

Deck the halls and fill up the cash registers. The holidays have evolved into its own very strong self-standing tourism product, which has translated into more jobs and new tax revenue. The holidays have been responsible for helping take the seasonality out of the tourism season.

The critical factor to sustaining our robust restaurant scene is the support of the locals through the winter months.

Happy Holidays!

Got an opinion? Share it on our website by scanning this QR code or visiting capitalatplay.com/holiday-tourism

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North State Aviation continues to hire North State Aviation has had plenty of success adding people, but it needs more of them. North State, an aviation maintenance firm at Smith Reynolds Airport in Winston-Salem, is well on the way to its objective of employing 300, with 230 positions already filled. North State Aviation is expecting to receive resumes for a variety of positions including A&P licensed mechanics as well as avionics technicians and inspectors. When the company accepted incentives in 2011, it had grand plans to go from a startup with nearly 30 employees to 308 employees by the end of March 2014. The company gained another contract earlier in October with United Airlines, which will help generate at least 60 jobs toward that goal. North State Aviation’s job growth adds to the growing aviation cluster in the Triad, where Greensboro-based Honda Aircraft Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., employs 850 people at Piedmont Triad International Airport and expects an increase to 1,200 in the approaching years. The company is aiming toward the end of 2014 for obtaining FAA certification for its lightweight business jet and hopes to begin delivering the aircraft subsequently. In addition, Greensborobased TIMCO Aviation Services, which presently employs 1,725 people in the Triad, announced that Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Co. Ltd. plans to purchase the firm for $388.8 million in a move that is expected to spark future growth.

Honda Aircraft gets orders for jets in Midwest Honda Aircraft Co. is reportedly making progress to market its $4.5 million HondaJet, currently being developed at the Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) in Greensboro. Moines Flying Service, a

national dealer for the plane, has allegedly taken 22 orders for the business jet from customers including an Iowa developer and some Midwest auto dealers. The company sells in a 12-state area in the Midwest. John Lowe, chairman of the Des Moines Flying Service, explained that the purchases are a necessity for businesses, not an extravagance, because, “These business people don’t want these airplanes; they need them.” He expects the average customer for a HondaJet to be a manufacturer making between $20 million and $50 million in sales. Although deliveries to customers could be a year or more away, demand for the lightweight business jet seems to be growing. Honda Aircraft Co., a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., is aiming toward the end of 2014 for obtaining Federal Aviation Administration and plans to begin delivering the jet to customers thereafter. According to the company, which employs 850 people at PTI, more than 100 orders for the jet have already been placed.

EPIC, startup obtains federal award to develop solar technology in Charlotte UNC Charlotte’s EPIC program and a clean-energy startup called SineWatts have received a $620,000 federal grant to develop SineWatts’ “Inverter Molucule,” which mounts on solar panels. This project has brought the SineWatts CEO to Charlotte as a faculty adjunct at EPIC. EPIC Director Johann Enslin claims the miniaturized inverter has the potential to significantly reduce solar project construction costs.

The award comes from the U.S. Department of Energy’s SunShot Incubator Program. SunShot is designed to provide funding for startup businesses with high-growth potential due to breakthrough technology.

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Brasstown to Buxton, there’s a lot happening across our state

chip. According to SineWatts CEO, Shiba Bhowmik, it greatly reduces material and construction costs for solar projects and should prove more efficient than standard inverters currently in use and micro inverters already created for the industry.

Gastonia medical building sold to Nashville REIT Summit Crossing Place, a medical office building near CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia, was sold for $20.3 million. The buyer is a Nashville, Tennessee, real estate investment trust called Healthcare Realty Trust Inc. The purchase from a California company, 600 SM Master Lessee, closed in October and included 8.8 acres of land. The 91,000-square-foot building contains the offices of various tenants, including Summit Eye Associates and Piedmont Adult & Pediatric. Greg Trainor, managing partner of Fairfield Asset Advisors of Denver, Colorado, represented the seller during the transaction.

Cheerwine signs BooneOakley Cheerwine, North Carolina’s domestic soft drink, has chosen BooneOakley as advertising agency of record and suggested going national within four years. Cheerwine is owned by Carolina Beverage Corp. of Salisbury, a 96-year old, privately owned company still controlled by its founding family. Though rooted in the South, the drink is now available in stores in nearly 20 states. The brand’s campaign with BooneOakley will include traditional and social media, events and local market engagement. “As Cheerwine shifts from a beloved regional favorite to a national ‘new kid on the block,’ we felt we needed three things from our agency: A deep understanding of the ‘brand soul,’

experience in taking brands from regional to national, and a resident competency in the strategic and creative skills necessary to tell great stories that will resonate deeply with our target audience…We think we’ve found all three in BooneOakley,” explained Tom Barbitta, senior vice president of marketing and sales for the beverage company.

BooneOakley’s client roster includes the Charlotte Bobcats, Bojangles’ Restaurants Inc. and Autobell Car Wash Inc.

RTI, UNC join forces to change cancer care protocol Researchers at RTI International and the University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center will collaborate while working to develop valid and reliable measures of patient-centered communication in cancer care delivery settings. The term “patient-centered” has been one of the buzz words to surface following changes from the Affordable Care Act as the American health care system attempts to shift from a system where doctors and nurses simply treat symptoms as they arise, to a way of treating each patient as a whole and hopefully reduce future trips to the hospital. Lauren McCormack, director of RTI’s Center for Communication Science and the project’s principal investigator, explained: “Patient-centered communication is a critical component of high quality cancer care, but some cancer patients report poor experiences communicating with their cancer care team…Developing better ways to monitor and evaluate the quality of patient-centered care and communication can help to improve cancer care.” The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) will fund the three-year contract worth nearly $900,000. Researchers will work with more than 1,000 colorectal cancer patients to review their experiences with cancer care and

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specifically with communication. “Patient-centered communication helps cancer patients handle the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis, understand and remember important information, talk with different health care providers, share in making decisions about their treatment, and build trust with their care team,” explained Katherine Treiman, Ph.D., senior research scientist at RTI and the project’s co-investigator.

Duke to study ocean’s impact on climate change with $16M grant Duke University will share a $16 million grant to study how ocean currents transport warm water north toward the Arctic Ocean and cool water south toward the equator. Duke and the University of Miami are part of the Overturning in the Subpolar North Atlantic Program (OSNAP), which is a five-year, $32 million initiative to monitor and measure the ocean’s overturning circulation, a major component of the global climate system. The National Science Foundation is responsible for giving the $16 million grant. These studies should provide more insight on climate change. According to Duke, OSNAP measurements will aid the study of how changes in the northward flow of warm water affects the reduction of Arctic sea ice and the shrinking of the Greenland Ice Sheet. “For decades, oceanographers

have understood the overturning circulation to be highly susceptible to changes in the temperature and salinity of surface waters in the subpolar North Atlantic. With increasing ocean temperatures, and increased ice melt that impacts the salinity of the surface waters, it is timely to establish just how climate changes might affect the strength of the overturning circulation,” Lozier explained.

Clean Energy Awards The NC Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA) presented a lifetime achievement award to Michael Shore, an environmental activist and solar entrepreneur. NCSEA gave the Clean Energy Awards at the Raleigh Convention Center during its annual Making Energy Work Conference in early November. Shore is a co-founder of FLS Energy headquartered in Asheville and has led the company since its launch in 2006. In 2006 and 2007, Shore and NCSEA’s Ivan Urlaub co-led the development, negotiation and passage of North Carolina’s Senate Bill 3, including the first Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard in the Southeast. Under Shore’s leadership, FLS completed over 50 Megawatts of renewable energy generation, raised over $100 million in project and corporate financing and was on Inc. Magazine’s list of the 500 fastest growing companies in 2011 and 2012, ranking 46th in the nation in 2011. Cherokee County Schools also

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won the Community Initiative Award. Cherokee County Schools have been leading Western North Carolina in energy conservation and solar energy development. By the end of 2013, four of the county’s schools will have solar arrays. In March, the county was acknowledged as the 6th school district in the state to have 100 percent of its schools Energy Star certified. The cost savings the school district’s clean energy investments offer allows other money to go toward resources inside the classroom. Senator Tom Apodaca, R-Hendersonville, was also named 2013 Legislator of the Year for advancing clean energy in the 2013 legislative session.

Woes continue for NC’s next driver’s license North Carolina is prepared to cancel a contract with a company that pledged three years ago to create high-tech driver’s licenses but officials have claimed failed to deliver. In September, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) wrote a termination letter to MorphoTrak, which in 2010, was awarded the job to develop and manage the North Carolina’s Next Generation Secure License program. The licenses are supposed to consist of laser-embossed 3-D driver images and other anti-counterfeit measures to meet the terms of federal license standards. But according to the DMV, the company has repeatedly failed to meet requirements of the contract, which if ultimately

canceled, could mean the state spending more than $5 million with little to show for it. A pilot project initially expected to begin in July 2011 never happened. The DMV previously told MorphoTrak to stop working on the project in 2011 and 2012 due to perceived problems. Also, the state’s chief information officer suspended the project once. The clash has now expanded into Gov. Pat McCrory’s administration. “What has been provided to NCDMV is incomplete and inadequate as a solution, and is therefore without value of any kind to NCDMV,” then-DMV Commissioner Nick Tennyson wrote mid-September to MorphoTrak President Daniel Vassy in directing his company to stop its work. The letter compelled the CEO of Safran Morpho, MorphoTrak’s French parent company, to visit Raleigh in late September as an attempt to resolve the issue. According to a DMV spokeswoman, Marge Howell, state transportation officials are working “to determine the most effective way to complete the required work with the most efficient use of taxpayer money…The department hopes to reach a resolution and announce the path forward before the end of this year.” In previous correspondence, MorphoTrak expressed that it had not breached the contract and blamed the DMV for seeking too many 11th-hour project adjustments.

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top : The unroasted, green coffee beans. middle : Fire shines through the Dynamite Roasting Co.

logo that is die-cut into their roaster.

bottom : One step closer: roasted coffee beans. right : The finished product. | December 2013 72

GET YOUR LOCALLY ROASTED

Coffee Buzz written by arthur treff

|

photos by anthony harden

Relax…and imagine tomorrow’s first cup of coffee. You can smell it brewing, is it ready yet?

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 73

T

he cup warms your palms and the aroma delights your nose as you take that first sip. This moment is a ceremony; a cozy slice of time nestled between waking and the first task of the day. Since the 15th century, mankind has jump-started the day with coffee.

What does your coffee ritual look like? Perhaps clad in PJ’s, you grind the beans, meter the water, and snap on the machine—or does someone serve you in bed? Maybe you enjoy the ceremony in business attire at a favorite bistro or in your car from a to-go cup.

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| December 2013

Coffee Tutorial To create a coffee drink you have to take these steps.

Tend the plants until it bears fruit.

Pick the fruit and remove the seeds.

Roast those seeds into coffee beans.

Grind those beans.

Brew the coffee.

josh gibbs , smiles talking about the 100,000 pounds of

green beans to be roasted next year

If you’ve purchased your brew from an establishment whose primary focus is coffee, there’s a good chance the person behind the counter understands the ritual and takes your coffee experience very seriously. These individuals who preside over our coffee ceremony and prepare the drinks are called ‘Baristas.’

Much like a wine sommelier, your barista should be able to tell you the origin of the beans, how they’re roasted, and, most importantly, prepare your coffee beverage exactly the way you like it.

Millions of baristas credit coffee with getting them through college; caffeine-powered study sessions propelled them through finals, and coffee shop salaries paid many a tuition bill. So it was for Dynamite Roasting Co. co-owner, Andy Gibbon.

Andy attended college in Ohio and realized he needed a break,

so he took a semester off and traveled west, working as a barista when he needed more cash. He returned to school and realized that college study wasn’t going to get him where he needed to be.

Andy quit school and his local barista job and hit the road again.

He ended up behind a coffee bar in New Zealand, then traveled up to Maine where he played barista and bluegrass music for a while. He hiked the length of the Appalachian Trail. He didn’t find any coffee employment on the trail, but he did find the woman who was to become his wife.

Together they moved to Bozeman, Montana where Andy worked as…(wait for it)…a barista. Some of the coffee houses he’d work for roasted their own beans, so part of Andy’s job was to assist in the roasting process, which opened a new area of knowledge for the inquisitive man.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 75

The Plants coffee tutorial

All coffee plants are from the large plant family, Rubiaceae. In the genus, Coffea, there are two predominant species that are cultivated: Coffea canephora, or robusto, and Coffea Arabica, the most highly regarded of the two.

They are evergreen trees or shrubs that can grow to 15’ if not pruned, which produce small flowers and a ½” oval fruit that matures to a deep red berry when ripe. The fruit contains two green seeds, which are extracted and dried.

The seeds are loaded into burlap sacks weighting approx. 150 lbs. and are sold to coffee roasting companies as ‘green coffee.’

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When he wasn’t working with coffee, hiking, or playing music, Andy was brewing his own beer. A self-professed geek for the details drove him to try his hand at reproducing the taste of beers he loved. We’ve seen home hobbies pursued with fervor develop into full blown business ventures many times, here at Capital at Play.

Andy’s home brewing experience led him to the beer industry. He walked into Catawba Valley Brewing and volunteered to work for free. Shortly thereafter, he was a full time employee entrenched in beer making.

A couple years later, he migrated over to Highland Brewing, but this wasn’t the spark to light the entrepreneurial fuse.

While shuffling through a catalog, Andy found a home coffee-roasting machine. He had to have one. He yearned to refine his roasting knowledge, learning the intricacies of how time, temperature, and airflow could be varied to change flavors.

He had his own ‘cuppings’: sessions where the roaster taste tests his creations by slurping lukewarm coffee off a spoon and spitting it out.

Eventually his roasting repertoire grew to include some tasty signature blends.

While Andy was traveling and gaining coffee knowledge, a Western North Carolina native, Josh Gibbs, was working at his own digital media production company, JMG Productions. Josh created videos, advertising campaigns, and wedding DVDs. He was happy.

One day, Josh was contacted to do some small video spots for a political campaign, and welcomed the opportunity. His company would be part of the democratic process, helping a struggling candidate, and it was aligned with Josh’s core value of community involvement. He signed a production contract.

The realities of United States politics soured his zeal when the candidates’ lawyers pressured Josh into developing negative smear-spots about the opposing side. He couldn’t believe it. As soon as Josh had honored his part of the contract, he closed the doors on JMG after four years in business. He hit the road to play music full time and forget the bad experience.

His timing was fortuitous. Josh and Andy met through music, and ended up playing in the same band. In Josh, Andy found a fellow coffee aficionado. During music tours, the pair would scour towns they played to find the best cup of coffee or espresso. When in Asheville, Josh sampled some of Andy’s home roasted coffee blends. The taste was explosive; he was amazed that fresh coffee could taste so good.

Discussions about coffee began to take a more serious tone. The pair dreamed of opening their own coffee roasting operation. Andy knew a great deal about the coffee industry, and Josh had marketing and media experience to back up his degree in digital media. They balanced each other quite well.

At the time, the small coffee roasters who serviced the Asheville area had not really broken out of the word of mouth, lower-volume market. Andy and Josh wanted to create a marketable brand of organic, locally roasted beans. They wanted their future company’s logo to be identified as ‘Asheville’s coffee.’

A plan was worked through Mountain Biz Works where the first five years of coffee roasting operation were mapped out. Their expectations were modest. Josh and Andy would be happy if they could make enough money roasting beans to equal their existing incomes.

Andy yearned to refine his roasting knowledge, learning the intricacies of how time, temperature, and airflow could be varied to change flavors.

The Roasting coffee tutorial

andy gibbons

All beans that we consumers purchase have been roasted. Roasting changes the green seeds chemically and physically. The process begins when the internal temperature of the seed reaches approximately 390 °F. At this point, starches are converted to simple sugars, which turns the beans brown, a process called caramelization.

During roasting, aromatic oils and acids weaken, changing the flavor; at 401 °F, other oils start to develop. One of these oils, caffeol, is largely responsible for coffee’s aroma and flavor.

Beans are classified as light, medium or dark roast. The art of the roaster is to vary time, temperature, and airflow to bring out the best qualities of the green seeds. Roasters also blend various beans and roasts to create signature ‘blends.’

thomas lussier ,

coffee roaster December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 77

Where there’s smoke, there’s… Aroma During the fall of 2008, the lads rented a converted house at 3198 US Hwy70 in Black Mountain calling their enterprise, Dynamite Roasting Company. They searched for a used roasting machine on eBay as well as the equipment to brew and taste test their beans. Soon, billows of aromatic smoke could be seen above the roof of the little cream and red building.

Something unforeseen in their business plan cropped up.

Drawn by the fragrance, people knocked on the door and asked what was going on…then will you sell me a cup of coffee from these warm, fresh beans?

Andy and Josh had acquired a commercial espresso machine, bean grinders and drip coffee equipment, with the intended goal of testing their product before releasing it to commercial customers. Serving coffee in a retail setting hadn’t crossed their minds, yet here were paying customers, and Andy did know his way around the business side of a coffee bar.

Most successful entrepreneurs say ‘yes’ to their clientele a great deal in the beginning, so Dynamite’s roasting room, over time, became a coffee house with a bean roaster right in the middle of the floor—patrons couldn’t help but be interested in, and educated about, the beans that went into their daily drinks.

Good thing customers showed up looking for coffee drinks, because, during Dynamite’s first year, coffee shop business contributed 80% to their income, while bean roasting brought 20%.

Yes, it was cramped in the shop with 150lb bags of green coffee stacked along one wall and tubs containing finished coffee along another. Loading finished goods onto a delivery truck wasn’t easy, as the coffee bar line crossed right in front of the entrance.

Coffee house clientele got an intimate look into the day-to-day roasting process.

To daily customers, the roaster was far from an inconvenience, it became a major draw. Who wouldn’t want to sip coffee seated around an aromatic fireplace to greet neighbors on chilly mornings? Kids pulled their chairs close to watch the beans tumble in the roaster window. Dynamite Roasting became a gathering place.

Free Wi-Fi is standard fare in coffee houses, but Andy and Josh made a conscious decision not to install it. Their tasting-room/roaster had become a hub of local communication, a gathering place; people of all ages were talking and interacting.

If wireless networking were available, the conversation would diminish. Uplifted laughing faces would be pointed down, silently staring into tablet and laptop screens. True communication would be silenced.

When Dynamite was in the planning stages, Josh, who had negative experiences making commercials for less than honest political candidates, and Andy, who had toiled as a barista for years, agreed on some core values. Their roasting company would be involved in the community, be honest in all their dealings, and pay decent wages.

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Taking your business from plans to profits The Grind coffee tutorial

Roasted beans must be ground or milled prior to brewing. The fineness of grind affects the taste and must also be matched to the intended brewing method. Brewing methods that leave water in contact with the beans require a coarser grind, and those, which minimize the water contact, require a much finer grind.

Regardless of which process is being used, when the grind is too coarse, the result is a weak tasting beverage. When too fine a grind is used, the resulting coffee is ‘over extracted’ and yields a bitter, overly strong taste. For this reason the grind is closely controlled.

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Coffee that has been ground loses its flavor rapidly, which is why the best tasting drink comes from grinding immediately before brewing. There are four basic grinding categories, all of which have regional variations: burr grinding, chopping, pounding, and roller grinding.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 79

Creating Dynamite’s signature logo was exemplary of this commitment. Josh had graphic design experience, but the pair wanted someone else to create the graphic.

They approached AB Tech’s art department with the logo project. Most companies expect college students to work for free, but Josh and Andy proposed that they pay normal big-city scale to talented students to come up with the design.

Community outreach also worked its way into the product line. A WNCW radio morning host became a regular Dynamite customer, and the lads were avid listeners.

During a radio fundraiser period, the idea was hatched that Dynamite create a WNCW Morning Blend coffee. The bag would feature the radio station’s logo, and Dynamite would donate 10% of the purchase price to the station.

Three years ago, a thin, quiet man walked into Dynamite Roasting and asked for a job. He was Thomas Lussier, who had five years experience working as a coffee roaster for a high volume outfit in Massachusetts. Thomas had recently moved to Western North Carolina, and had studied the local roasting scene. His first choice was Dynamite.

“Josh and I say that we want to hire people who are better than us,” says Andy, “and as the guy responsible for most of the roasting knowledge around here, I instantly knew that we had to hire Thomas.”

Dynamite wasn’t in a position to pay a full time roaster at the time, so Thomas roasted when needed, and supplemented his income with barista shifts.

Late in 2012, Andy fielded a phone call from the headquarters of a health food store chain. Dynamite had an opportunity to go national, but had to commit to volume deliveries and enter distribution agreements.

One thing was certain: roasting coffee in a small machine located at the center of a busy coffee bar was not the way to grow. Dynamite got busy. They purchased a much larger roaster and installed it in a commercial space a quarter mile away from the coffee shop.

Reviewing the opportunity, Josh and Andy felt torn. It was a large growth opportunity, but forced Dynamite to relinquish the control they’d enjoyed for the previous four years.

“Sure, we would have gotten bigger, but the nature of our daily work would have changed drastically,” says Josh. “By doing our own distribution to customers in Western North Carolina, we’re able to react to, and stay involved in, the market. Going national, we’d be pushing thousands of pounds of beans, yes, but we’d have a new problem: how to avoid being just another bag on the shelf.”

Dynamite didn’t take the large leap, but they’re grateful for the call. Firstly, it was validation that they’re on the right track: the Dynamite brand was paired with quality beans. Secondly, it pushed them into buying a more capable roaster and installing it in a proper commercial space.

Every employee we spoke to had scads of coffee business experience before they joined the company. Sarah, the coffee shop manager, is a California transplant with 10 years experience in the industry. She worked as a roaster, barista and owned a coffee bar before relocating to Western North Carolina.

“I owned a coffee bar in California which expanded to include a mobile unit in a converted Airstream,” says Sarah. “These guys [Josh and Andy] are great. My experience

“Sure, we would have gotten bigger, but by doing our own distribution to customers in Western North Carolina, we’re able to react to, and stay involved in, the market.”

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The Brew coffee tutorial

Brewing is divided into four basic categories, depending on how the water is introduced to the ground beans.

Decoction (by Boiling) Decoction was the predominant coffee preparation method prior to 1930 and is still in use in Middle Eastern countries as well as the Balkans, North Africa, Russia and Turkey. Boiling water is poured into a cup containing coarsely ground coffee, which, eventually drops to the bottom of the cup. Variations of this method substitute milk or cream for the boiling water, and in some parts of the world, sugar is mixed with the grounds before brewing.

Infusion (by Steeping) The most common method is with a French Press: a carafe into which the coarse grounds and boiling water are poured. The lid contains a fine metal mesh disk attached to a plunger. After a period of time, (dictated by the grind/roast of the beans) the lid’s plunger is pressed onto the grounds, thereby isolating them from the beverage, which is poured into a cup.

Beverage strength is controlled by the ratio of coffee to water and the steeping time. Steeping can also be accomplished by pouring the grounds into a muslin pouch or sock, which is lowered into boiling water.

Gravitational Percolation (Drip Brewing) Drip brewing is the most widely used method in the United States.

Finely ground beans are contained within a filter basket into which boiling water is poured. This is the process used in most home and commercial coffee machines.

The fineness of grind and the ratio of the grind to water determine the strength of the coffee drink. Drip brewed coffee is weaker in taste than espresso, but contains more caffeine.

Pressurized Percolation (Espresso) This method uses the finest grind available, akin to coarse powdered sugar, as the beans are only exposed to the water for approx.

20 seconds. Brewing espresso requires a specialized machine that heats water to just under the boiling point, then forces it through a tightly packed ‘puck’ of ground coffee at a pressure of 116-260 psi.

Espresso machines use the smallest amount of ground coffee.

diy, Josh Gibbs loading the

Dynamite delivery van

The process yields 1.5 to 2.0 oz. of a very dark, slightly thicker liquid with signature brown ‘crema’ foam on top. The crema is the result of the high-pressure water. The taste is distinct and is the basis for many espresso drinks.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com

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tells me that they’re doing all the right things with customers and employees…and they pay a sustainable living wage.”

Sarah helps Thomas in the roasting process two days a week, does deliveries when needed, and spends the remainder managing the Dynamite coffee bar, so her life is never dull.

Wearing many hats is important to the Dynamite customer experience as well. Sarah personally absorbs the weekly roasting nuances from Thomas, which gives her more to talk about with customers, be they coffee drinkers in the bar or commercial clients during deliveries.

We can attest to that. Waiting in line to order an espresso at Dynamite’s bar we overheard two customers asking the barista about the coffee they’re drinking and how to expand their taste experience. This communication is a core value in Josh and Andy’s business plan.

The roasting company wants to do all they can to service their customers, which includes increasing coffee knowledge and helping everyone to develop a discerning palette. There are some coffee establishments that strive to enlighten customers, and in the process, take themselves too seriously, leaving the customer feeling self-conscious. At Dynamite, the information is passed along gently by the down to earth staff, who love what they do.

After five years, Dynamite’s roasting business is 70% of their annual sales, with the coffee shop being 30%, which is more in line with the original expectations.

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Capital at Play asked the coffee team if they could service their customer base more efficiently if distribution and delivery were subcontracted. We received an immediate, resounding no.

To Dynamite, the delivery process is a vital link in customer relations. It’s a time when key questions about roasting, changing an order, or coffee preparation might need to be answered. If the delivery van were driven by someone who doesn’t know coffee intimately, Dynamite’s value as a coffee supplier could rapidly diminish.

What’s next? Dynamite is starting to offer ‘micro lots’ to their customers. Most green coffee bean deliveries are sourced from a distributor who mixes beans from many plant varietals from many farms.

Micro lots are beans picked by the grower that come from one strain of plant, from a specific region on his farm, or are processed in a particular way. These smaller lots also pay the farmer double the going rate per pound.

“Micro lots are fun,” says Thomas. “The tastes are concentrated, not diluted by beans with differing characteristics. I look forward to roasting them because it’s an opportunity to push my art to the next level, and they make for a very interesting drink.”

Andy just returned from a coffee-buying jaunt to Honduras. He was there along with seven other roasting companies to sample the wares of high altitude beans from organic coffee growers in the region. Honduras is an up-and-coming producer of coffee, behind Colombia, Brazil, Indonesia and Ethiopia.

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Andy’s taste buds were pushed to the limit as he sampled 110 coffee lots over three days. In between, he toured farms where the grower’s families treated him to amazing local foods, drinks, and entertainment.

The trip yielded five new green bean varieties for Thomas to roast and Dynamite customers to sample.

October 2013 was Dynamite Roasting’s fifth anniversary, and the company blew through their five-year goals a long time ago. They currently roast 100,000 pounds of green beans per year.

Dynamite’s customer base lies within a triangle bound by Asheville, Marion and Hendersonville, and includes restaurants, schools, radio stations, hospitals, coffee shops and grocery stores.

“When we team up with another retail company,” says Josh, “we try to be selective.

We want to align ourselves with customers that will represent the brand well.”

The strategy is working; local initiatives have yielded an interesting array of consumable art. Collaboration with beer brewers has created twelve coffee-based beers.

On the dessert side, a few ice cream makers use Dynamite beans, and two chocolatiers dust their dark chocolate with an espresso blend.

Dynamite has helped The Bywater develop a coffee liqueur, and Hotel Indigo to make coffee martinis. Morning Glory Cafe and Hotel Indigo both use Dynamite coffee in signature steak rubs. Looking Glass Creamery uses Dynamite coffee in one of their cheese products.

Josh and Andy’s part-time coffee roasting has evolved into a solid vocation. Driven by the desire to learn more about coffee, they’ve built a successful company that attracts gifted employees, has a solid brand following, and is involved in the community.

The Numbers 2.5 Billion

Cups of coffee consumed every day around the globe.

22.1 Gallons

Annual United States coffee consumption per capita in the year 2000.

65%

Percentage of the world’s coffee consumed before noon.

For locations where you can find Dynamite Roasting Co’s Coffee plus a brief history of coffee, scan this QR code or visit capitalatplay.com/dynamite-roasting

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how dothey doit?

Do you pursue further education, and why?

Ali Pearson

Candy Cakes “It’s always a personal adventure in creating new products and recipes. Research is constantly evolving for new ideas.”

Eva-Michelle Greene

Wick and Greene Jewelers “We all pursue further education. We’re part of an industry that is ever-changing with new discoveries of mines, treatments, metal uses, etc. so we’re constantly learning! We attend many industry events each year to keep up to date in the trade. Also, we take annual re-certification exams to maintain our American Gem Society credentials. Not only do we constantly study in our field, we attend seminars and events at UNC Asheville and UNC Chapel Hill on family business and leadership, so we can be better leaders and business people. Education is so important to us!”

Andy Gibbon

Dynamite Roasting Co. “I don’t need to pursue it, as it usually finds me. The coffee supply chain is extremely complex, not to mention marketing, bookkeeping, LTL shipping, welding, and everything else a business demands. One trip to a coffee growing country and you realize that you will never know everything there is to know about coffee’s journey from seed to cup.”

To hear from our other featured entrepreneurs, scan this QR code or visit capitalatplay.com/how-do-they-do-it 84

| December 2013

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December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 85

by MIKE SUMMEY

M

HOW

mike is an

$100,000,000,000,000 Became Worthless In 29 Years

entrepreneur, author of several books on real estate, and also an avid pilot and philanthropist.

We are enjoying the greatest standard of living the world has ever known. But, how could we not be when our economy is propped up with $17 TRILLION DOLLARS we’ve borrowed from our children and grandchildren? Yes, the lifestyle we are currently enjoying is at the expense of future generations, many of whom are not yet born.

L

et me simplify what I’m talking about by bringing the situation down to the impact this can have on a single family. Suppose Mom and Dad are enjoying a great standard of living because their parents and grandparents worked hard and invested well.

Suppose they have an excellent credit rating based on the way the family has always handled its affairs. This has enabled them to buy bigger and better houses, drive nicer cars, and have many

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| December 2013

other trappings that their ancestors didn’t have because they weren’t willing to go in debt to do so.

Mom and Dad are enjoying a better life than their parents, and they see no reason their children and grandchildren will not be able to do the same. They are living up the fruits of prior generation’s labor because their parents and grandparents saved and invested. But there is a problem! In addition to what they inherited and what they are adding with their

own earnings, they are also enjoying an even greater standard of living because their good credit has enabled them to borrow additional money to support an even better lifestyle.

Instead of leaving a legacy like their parents and grandparents had left them, Mom and Dad will leave their children and grandchildren a lot of material things, but also debt that will have to be repaid. Under this circumstance, their beneficiaries will have little choice except to live on less than their earnings while they pay off the debt their parents ran up while living a lifestyle they didn’t earn.

How do you think this is going to go over with the children and grandchildren?

Isn’t this what we are doing as a nation?

Aren’t we enjoying a lifestyle we haven’t earned at the expense of our children and grandchildren? Well, the answer to these questions could be either yes or no depending on how you look at it. If you measure our national debt as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product, (GDP) we aren’t as far in debt today as we were immediately following WWII when the debt reached a high of 117.5 percent of GDP. But there’s a big difference. By the end of the war, our industrial machine and its accompanying production jobs were in high gear, and we were producing goods at an unprecedented level. When the massive industrial complex built during the war was converted to domestic production, our economy boomed and the debt was reduced dramatically, not in outstanding dollars, but as a percentage of GDP. Today however, much of what we buy is manufactured abroad, not made here in the USA. United States consumption without U.S. production creates a transfer of U.S. dollars to foreign producers and this gradually erodes our economy.

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On the other hand, if you compare our debt by using what a dollar could buy then compared to now, it’s a totally different picture. As inflation pushes the GDP higher in terms of dollars, the dollar amount of the debt can grow without increasing the percentage of GDP. For example, if you look back over the past century, inflation has pushed the price of an item costing $20 in 1913 to an unbelievable amount of $473.03 in 2013. Even with the inflated amount of the nation’s GDP growing dramatically, the national debt has grown even more rapidly, from a low of 32.5 percent in 1981 to 102.7 percent today. This growth has come primarily from the expansion of programs such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Prescription Drug Coverage, food stamps, and aid to families with dependent children, housing subsidies, environmental initiatives, and the list goes on and on. Couple this with the high unemployment and lack of production we have experienced over the past several years and it’s a recipe for economic disaster.

The problem is, as good as it feels, we don’t have the industrial complex and associated employment to support what is being spent. A tremendous amount of our post WWII manufacturing has been shipped to other countries and service related jobs simply don’t produce anything of lasting substance. We lack the ability to retire this huge debt through any means other

The national debt has grown even more rapidly, from a low of 32.5 percent in 1981 to 102.7 percent today.

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than repaying it with highly inflated dollars. The dollar has already been weakened to an unprecedented low, and in 2011, for the first time in the nation’s history, its credit rating was lowered. Congress seems increasingly reluctant to keep raising the debt ceiling, which is the nation’s credit limit. There are currently deep concerns of another possible downgrade in the near future. If you want to see how fast the debt is growing, go to www.free-press.biz/usa/national-debt.htm and just watch the debt clock for a few minutes.

Let’s go back to our hypothetical family discussed earlier. If Mom and Dad continue to borrow and spend, the people lending them money will begin to get nervous about their ability to repay the loans and eventually become concerned enough to cut off their credit. When this happens, Mom and Dad are forced to come back to reality, lower their standard of living and start retiring their debts. We saw this happen in the recent economic crash. That’s how the market works for you and me, but that’s not the way it works for the federal government. You see, Mom and Dad don’t have the ability to print money to pay their debts, but the federal government does. It’s when a country tries to print its way out of debt that problems escalate, inflation spirals, and citizens suffer.

The best example of this is what happened to the African country of Zimbabwe between 1980 and April 2009. In 1983 the exchange rate between a Zimbabwean dollar and a U.S. dollar was one to one. By 1997 a U.S. dollar was worth 10 Zimbabwean dollars. By 2000 one U.S. dollar could be exchanged for 100 Zimbabwean dollars. Then as the government kept printing more and more money, inflation really started to ramp up. In June 2002 a U.S. dollar was worth 1,000 Zimbabwean dollars and

by March 2003 that number had jumped to 10,000 Zimbabwean dollars. Wow, you say! That’s unbelievable. And it is, except

that was just the beginning of the spiral. The government kept printing money and as any economist knows, sustained growth in the money supply will result in high sustained inflation. In spite of being devalued in August 2006 and again in August 2008, by February 2009, one U.S. dollar was worth 300 trillion Zimbabwean dollars, and the currency was devalued once more.

By April 12, 2009, the currency was completely worthless and it was abandoned. Transactions today are carried out using foreign currencies. I have a 100 trillion dollar Zimbabwe note taped to the wall in my office as a reminder of what can and did happen to a currency that was worth the same as U.S. currency just 30 years ago.

For an extended period, the Federal Reserve has been buying $85 billion dollars per month of government debt with newly printed money. This expansion of the money supply will eventually show up in the form of higher inflation. This bond buying has artificially held down interest rates, but even with the low rates, the interest on the national debt is more than the total budgets of many government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Labor, Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Education and Homeland Security. This interest expense buys us nothing and deprives us from enjoying the real benefits we would see if the money could be used to purchase things we need today.

Back to Mom and Dad! Do you remember what gasoline cost per gallon just five years ago compared to the price today?

How about groceries, clothing, education, health care and just about anything else you can think of? I recently ate at one of my favorite restaurants and the price of an appetizer I really like had jumped from $7.95 to $9.95 in the past year. Last week I went through the drive thru of a fast food restaurant and picked up two meals and two drinks. The bill was over $20. Just

a couple of years ago I remembered buying these for just over $10. Is this inflation or price gouging? You be the judge. Look at what you are spending today compared to just five years ago.

I point this out, not to scare you, but rather to get you thinking. It has only been a little over 30 years since inflation was rampant in the early 1980’s and interest rates shot up to over 21 percent. That was a scary time for those of us who lived through it. Imagine if inflation were to reach 21 percent per day the way it did in Zimbabwe before the total collapse of their currency. Could it happen here? Probably not, but unless we get our financial house in balance the resulting economic impact of continuing to print money could be devastating and result in a dramatic lowering of our standard of living for many years to come. The sooner we accept the fact that we are living above our means and start scaling back to what we can afford, the less impact there will be on our standard of living. This is true whether we’re talking about a single family or a nation.

The time to make hard choices is while they are still choices, not after they cease to be choices and are forced upon us.

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Monsanto makes $1 billion public debt offering Monsanto Co. is offering $1 billion in public debt offiering in three tranches (in structured finance, a tranche is one of a number of related securities offered as part of the same transaction), to assist paying for its recent $930 million acquisition of The Climate Corp. The offering is comprised of $400 million in three-year bonds that mature November 7, 2016; $300 million in five-year bonds that mature November 15, 2018; and $300 million in 30-year bonds that mature November 15, 2043. According to company officials, Monsanto intends to use net proceeds from the sale of the notes, along with available cash, to repay commercial paper issued to finance its previously announced acquisition of The Climate Corp., and for other general corporate purposes. Monsanto completed the Climate Corp. deal November 1, 2013. Moody’s Investors’ Service claimed that it assigned A1 ratings to Monsanto’s new $1 billion in senior unsecured notes. “Monsanto’s credit metrics will weaken slightly as a result of the acquisition and increased capital spending in 2014, but should remain solidly supportive of the A1 rating,” explained John Rogers, senior vice president at Moody’s. Monsanto, which is led by Chairman and CEO Hugh Grant, reported net sales of $14.86 billion in fiscal 2013.

Georgia has No. 1 business climate Economic development trade publication Site Selection magazine has ranked Georgia’s business climate the nation’s best. Flanked by Georgia political and business leaders, Governor Nathan Deal credited Georgia’s selection as the top state in which to do business to a number of factors, including tax reforms passed by the General Assembly,

appealing financial incentives to attract corporate prospects, a quality work force, low electric rates, and such logistical advantages as the world’s busiest airport in Atlanta and fourth-busiest port in Savannah.

Mark Arend, Site Selection’s editor-in-chief, said Georgia’s No. 1 status was not unusual, as it was No. 4 in 2012. “Georgia is a regular top finisher in our annual analysis of state business climates, with five Top Ten placements in the last five years,” Arend explained. “Executives at companies investing there regularly point to its many logistic advantages, cutting-edge workforce training programs, particularly Quick Start, and proactive economic developers on the state and local levels who understand the business requirements of today’s capital investors.” The magazine releases its annual rankings each November.

It bases its research on a survey of corporate real estate executives, an index of tax burden criteria according to the Tax Foundation and KPMG’s Location Matters analysis, and the states’ performance in Conway Data’s New Plant Database, which tracks new and expanded business facilities activity.

Dick’s, ESPN in Fan Shop merchandise deal Dick’s Sporting Goods has decided to partner with ESPN to provide licensed merchandise for the ESPN Fan Shop on ESPN.com. Through the ESPN Fan Shop, customers can buy merchandise from the National Football League, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League and elsewhere along with ESPN merchandise. “This groundbreaking collaboration with ESPN blends sports content and commerce, solidifying Dick’s as the premier destination for licensed product,” Dick’s Chief Marketing Officer, Lauren Hobart, said. “Dick’s is excited about this dynamic multi-channel approach, which includes traditional and

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Flagship Nike store opens at Lenox Square mall Nike has opened a new flagship store at Buckhead’s upscale mall, Lenox Square. The roughly 23,000-square-foot store, opened in late October, occupies two levels at the mall’s front entrance, giving the athletic retailer a sizable presence on Atlanta’s iconic Peachtree Street.

Nike was previously inside the mall near the Apple store. The more than $2 million store is one of 11 new concept stores Nike has launched nationwide. It offers a variety of apparel and equipment for sports such as running, basketball, football and soccer. Among many design features, the new store includes a full basketball court layout with a gold-rimmed basketball hoop that has a black Swarovski crystal-encrusted net. There is also a display that showcases the basketball hoop from the former Butler Street YMCA where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once played. The store opening comes in the midst of Lenox Square’s continuation of a major facelift. According to mall owner Simon Property Group, as many as 15 to 20 new retailers will join the mall throughout the renovation process. Other new retailers will include The Cheesecake Factory and Sprinkles Cupcakes.

Google invests $608 million in Finnish data center Google is investing €450 million (euros), or United States $608 million, to expand a data center in southern Finland as part of Europewide development plans totaling hundreds of millions of euros. The investment is in addition to the €350 million it spent on converting

an old paper mill, bought from paper maker Stora Enso in 2009, into one of its centers accommodating customers in Europe and globally.

It started operations in 2011, and currently employs some 125 people in Hamina, 95 miles east of Helsinki. Google Inc. claims the Hamina center is one of its most advanced and efficient, with a high-tech cooling system that utilizes seawater from the Baltic Sea to reduce energy usage and help keep computers running smoothly. In 2015 the plant will be mainly powered by wind energy, and plans exist to meet future energy needs with “100% renewable energy.” According to the company, the expansion will employ up to 800 engineering and construction workers at the plant and that new permanent jobs will be established once the extension opens. “This investment underlines our commitment to working to help Finland take advantage of all the economic benefits from the Internet,” Google’s Finland manager, Anni Ronkainen, explained. “As demand grows for our products, from YouTube to Gmail, we’re investing hundreds of millions of euros in expanding our European data centers.” Google has 19 data centers worldwide, with 70 offices in more than 40 countries employing roughly 30,000 people.

Northrop Grumman wins $43M Air Force deal The U.S. Air Force granted Northrop Grumman Corp. a $43 million contract to retrofit the E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) aircraft, trainers and laboratories. The contract has opportunities for an additional three years to complete retrofit of the entire fleet. Joint STARS is an airborne command, control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platform for the Air Force’s air-to-ground battle management and surveillance operations. It offers

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long endurance, all-weather surveillance and tracking of moving and stationary targets. Northrop Grumman, which has a plant operation in Apopka, Florida, will open a new Manned Aircraft Design Center of Excellence facility in Melbourne, Florida in 2013 with intentions of adding nearly 920 high-tech jobs. The Falls Church, Virginia-based defense contractor is moving its New York operations to the facility, which recently launched construction on NASA Boulevard. According to USA Today, Northrop Grumman ranked No. 6 among the 10 United States companies profiting the most from the business of war. The firm has $21.4 billion in arms sales and $36.4 billion in total sales.

CyPhy Works raises $7M to expand flying robots CyPhy Works, a maker of flying robots led by iRobot co-founder Helen Greiner, has announced closing a $7 million financing round led by Lux Capital. The money will be used to expand development and deployment of the company’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) in surveying and situational awareness for commercial sectors including agriculture, mining, construction, and oil and gas. Greiner, who is CEO of CyPhy Works, has said she anticipates that her firm’s robots will be used for surveillance and reconnaissance in the military by mid-2014. Greiner founded the company in 2008 and had previously raised $2.7 million in funding for the firm. General Catalyst Partners,

which was a previous investor in CyPhy Works, partook in the new round of funding, along with Felicis Ventures and various undisclosed angel investors. Lux Capital partner Bilal Zuberi will join the CyPhy Works board of directors in connection with the investment. Zuberi was formerly a principal at General Catalyst’s Cambridge office. So far, CyPhy Works has revealed two, easy-to-operate flying robots for the military, civil and commercial sectors: an indoor hovering robot and an outdoor multi-copter robot. The hovering robot, called Extreme Access System for Entry (EASE), is currently being constructed for military service members. In a recent interview, Greiner said she hopes that by 2015, the Federal Aviation Administration will open the airspace for commercial applications of UAVs. She is striving to have her company’s flying robots used in industries including agriculture, farming, mining, and oil and gas.

Two new Harley bikes Harley-Davidson CEO, Keith Wandell, has revealed new production plans. Harley-Davidson’s new Street 750 and Street 500 motorcycles will be made in Kansas City and India. The new street bikes are the first motorcycles that Harley-Davidson has designed from scratch in 13 years. Prior to these new designs, the company’s most recent motorcycle design was the V-Rod, which is produced in Kansas City.

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The plant also makes the Dyna and Sportster models. Built with liquid-cooled Revolution X power trains, the motorcycles are swift and designed for the stop-and-go traffic of urban environments. The power train is placed on a narrow chassis, with an extra low seat height, new suspension and broad handlebar sweep for increased maneuverability. “Both the Street 750 and Street 500 were designed with thousands of hours of input from young adults in cities around the world…This input guided both the attitude and capabilities of these motorcycles. They are proof that being customer-led continues to be a core driver of our product development process,” Harley-Davidson President and COO, Matt Levatich, explained. The motorcycles will be sold worldwide. The United States models will be produced in Kansas City. For the first time ever, the international models will be completely constructed in Bawal, India, at a plant Harley-Davidson opened in 2011. Currently, Harley-Davidson manufactures the individual parts for its Indian factory in the United States and then ships kit bikes for assembly to India and Brazil to avoid tariffs. However, the decision to entirely produce the motorcycles in India will lower the price in regional markets and make them a more attractive buy. In the United States, the motorcycles will cost between $6,700 and $7,500. HarleyDavidson has not offered a smaller engine bike since it discontinued the Buell line in October 2009.

Microsoft signs deal to buy North Texas wind power Microsoft Corp. has signed a 20-year deal to purchase power from a wind farm that is in planning to be built nearly 70 miles northwest of Fort Worth. The agreement is part of Microsoft’s effort to become carbon neutral, and it is the first time that Microsoft is buying electricity directly from a specific source, RES Americas. Money to pay for the deal is reportedly coming from a “carbon fee,” which Microsoft is charging its departments for every ton of carbon they produce.

Purdue University to start MBA program in Chicago Purdue University intends to start an executive MBA program in Chicago beginning in 2015. The course of study will reportedly last 16 months, with classes held in the West Loop. The program will accommodate professionals who work in STEM fields: science, technology, engineering, and math. Purdue is not the first university to launch an MBA program specifically for professionals in Chicago. Other than the local institutions, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Northern Illinois University, and University of Notre Dame all offer similar programs in the city or suburbs. Students accepted into the program would partake in a 10-day orientation in West Lafayette, IN. After that, classes are scheduled for every other weekend in Chicago.

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 93

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make-or-break time for a special hybrid class of business owners: those who operate hotels, restaurants, stores and other attractions along the parkway itself—who own their own establishments, but who rent their premises from the federal government. Suddenly here, in stark relief, was the intersection of private enterprise and national bureaucracy, on a landlord-versus-tenant basis. What happens when that happens?

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On Tuesday, October 1, 2013, the governmental machinery of the United States ground to a shuddering halt; having run out of money with which to keep its gears turning, it simply froze up.

First to feel the effects of the lockdown were “nonessential” government services and these, in the government’s judgment, included all its national park facilities. In general these were still open to traffic and hikers, but amenities—viewing areas, interpretive services, even restrooms—were closed. These measures of course applied to the longest, site administered by the National Park Service, the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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All is merry and bright.

In the case of two iconic businesses on the Parkway near Asheville, what happens—what in fact did happen—is rebellion.

They, in effect, seceded from the Parkway.

Twenty miles from Asheville, on the slope of Mount Pisgah at Parkway milepost 408.6, is Pisgah Inn, a rambling, weathered structure located on a site that has offered food and lodging since 1919, years before there was such a thing as the Blue Ridge Parkway. For the past 35 years, the inn has been owned and operated by the family of Bruce O’Connell, 59, who is the present owner and general manager. The inn offers the only food, lodging and restrooms for a considerable length of the Parkway and its rooms were booked solid for the entire month of October.

Facing a body blow to his business’ finances, deeply concerned for the welfare of the people who worked for him and unpersuaded that a dysfunctional government had any right to engage in tortious interference with his livelihood, O’Connell— American, Southerner of Irish extraction—reacted characteristically: with defiance.

The day after the shutdown, inspired by the news that World War II veterans had moved barricades to visit their memorial in Washington, O’Connell first announced his intention to remain open. Later in the day, when rangers visited and cautioned him, he backtracked. “I decided we weren’t prepared to be a symbol, and we closed. But then, he said, “I slept on it and decided, ‘If not now, when; if not me, who?’ Simple as that.”

And the inn reopened.

Not for long. Almost immediately a swarm of armed park

In the case of two iconic businesses on the Parkway near Asheville, what happens— what in fact did happen— is rebellion.

They in effect seceded from the Parkway.

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1617 Hendersonville Rd. Asheville, NC www.deerfieldwnc.org toll free (800) 284-1531 (828) 274-1531 press 1 December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 95

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O’Connell obeyed. But he wasn’t done. The following day, news came that O’Connell was suing the Park Service.

And the day after that came news that the government would allow Pisgah Inn to reopen in exchange for dropping the lawsuit.

News of O’Connell’s stand went viral. “Blue Ridge Parkway Inn reopens with federal blessing,” headlined USA Today. “I’ve heard from liberals, and I’ve heard from conservatives,” O’Connell reported.

“I’ve heard [from] all of them, from everybody. They all have said the same thing, every one of them: ‘Don’t give up. Fight tyranny.’ ” “That tells me that if someone threw a match in the middle of the country, it would explode right now,” he said.

Meanwhile, a few miles on the opposite side of Asheville, the popular Folk Art Center, encouraged by developments at Pisgah Inn, reopened its doors after having initially observed

“I’ve heard from liberals, and I’ve heard from conservatives,” O’Connell reported. “I’ve heard [from] all of them, from everybody. They all have said the same thing, every one of them: ‘Don’t give up. Fight tyranny.’ That tells me that if someone threw a match in the middle of the country, it would explode right now.”

National Park Service. They have told me that I was violating my contract, and they have directed me to cease operations.”

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Every investment strategy has the potential for profit or loss

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red TAPE

the shutdown.

The Folk Art Center, which serves as the headquarters of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, showcases the work of regional artisans. It contains three galleries, a library and Allanstand Craft Shop, where Guild members’ works are offered for sale. It is a principal destination for Parkway travelers and, like Pisgah Inn, October is its busiest month.

On the center’s reopening, managing director Tom Bailey said, “We’re in the same scenario as [Pisgah Inn]. There are no federal employees here, so we decided we were going to open today.” He then notified—not asked, notified—the National Park Service of his intentions. “They said they wouldn’t stand in our way,” Bailey reported.

By the weekend of October 13-15, Peaks of Otter Lodge and Mabry’s Mill in Virginia also reopened, followed, one by one, by other Parkway concessionaires.

On Tuesday, October 17, the United States government reopened for business, and with it the National Park Service.

Federally funded attractions and locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway resumed operation. Pisgah Inn closed for the season on November 1, as usual, and will reopen April 1. The Folk Art Center is open year round, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas

and New Year’s Day. Things are back to normal, the media have long since moved on to the next story, and in a world that stays one step ahead of the present, little remains in the public consciousness of those few days when small business faced down big government.

But the confrontation, the way it captured the public’s attention and the manner of its resolution were all precedent-setting, and precedent drives policy. If there is a next time, what happened this time will greatly influence the outcome.

To read previous editions of Red Tape, or to view this article online, just scan this QR Code. capitalatplay.com/redtape

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Events

Dec

november 8 -december 29

The Polar Express at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad great smoky mountains railroad, 226 everett st, bryson city, nc The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit to the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests onboard will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when Santa boards The Polar Express, greeting the children and presenting them with a special gift as in the story: their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.

$40 for adults | $26 for children ages 2-12 free for children under two years old 800 - 872- 4681 november 29 -january 26

much more. Complimentary hot apple cider is served on the patio of Timberlake’s Restaurant.

www.chetola .com / thanksgiving . html december 6

23rd Annual Tree of Lights 5:30 pm | four seasons campus , 571 south allen rd, flat rock , nc Illuminate the joys of the holiday season with Four Seasons Compassion for Life’s community celebration during this 23rd annual event. Hundreds of luminaries, many inscribed with the names of loved ones, will set the landscape aglow, while thousands of lights sparkle in remembrance of others. Refreshments will be offered during the event; parking and shuttle services will be available from Blue Ridge College.

www. fourseasonscfl .org december 4 -22

Chetola Resort’s Festival Of Lights chetola resort in blowing rock , nc

A Christmas Story wed -sun 2pm & 8 pm flat rock playhouse,

Thousands of holiday illuminations light up Chetola beginning at dusk on Friday, November 29th, and running through Blowing Rock Winterfest, January 24-26, 2014. As you drive around Chetola Lake, you will view glittering ice skaters, a nativity scene, a colorful train, Rudolph’s “Holiday Catch” and

The only thing little Ralphie Parker hopes to find under the Christmas tree is an official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot range mold BB rifle with a compass in the stock. He doesn’t simply want it; he is consumed with an aching desire for it. But

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2661 greenville highway, flat rock , nc

So you know when and where

before he can hope to receive his Christmas wish, Ralphie must deal with concerned mothers, unsympathetic teachers, bundled-up brothers, major “fra-gee-lay” awards, frozen flagpoles, Bumpus hounds, unsavory soap, a terrifying Macy’s Santa and the even more terrifying Scut Farkus. Based upon the 1983 motion picture, this play is a hilarious and heartwarming holiday treat anyone will enjoy. Check the schedule for exact times.

december 6 -23 Lake Julian Festival of Lights 6 pm - 9pm daily lake julian park , 406 overlook road ext, arden , nc

$35 tickets

This is the 12th year for the annual spectacle featuring a drive through show. The park is brightly lit with thousands of colored lights and over 50 animated and stationary light displays.

december 6 - 8

$5 per car | $10 per van | $25 per motor coach 828 - 684 - 0376

Biltmore Village Dickens Festival fri 5pm -7pm | sat 11am -7pm | sun 1pm - 5pm historic biltmore village

Have a magical weekend of merriment, music and memories, all on the streets and in the shops, restaurants and galleries of Historic Biltmore Village. The main stage will be filled continuously with musicians, choral groups, singers, dancers, and Montford Park Players. This year the Festival will feature more than 300 performers, who, after their stage segments, will rove throughout the Village entertaining on the streets and in the shops and restaurants. And when dusk turns into evening, the more than 250,000 white lights outlining the historic Village buildings will combine with the streetlights to enhance the ambiance. There will also be horse-drawn rides through the tree-lined Village streets all day Saturday and Sunday. Chestnuts roasted on an open fire by chestnut roaster Sakshi Gentenbein will be available next to the main stage.

december 6 - 8 ‘Tis the Season Holiday Fair fri 10 am - 6 pm | sat 10 am - 6 pm | sun 12pm - 6 pm

davis event center at the wnc ag center , fletcher , nc

This is a festive gathering that features handmade gifts, adornments for the home, delectable gourmet food, and NC wines. In addition to fabulous art, crafts and gifts, Ingles Culinary Chefs will be attending with holiday food demonstrations. Live holiday music at scheduled times during the event, Christmas tree sales and a nostalgic photo prop.

adults $5 | children 12 and under free 828 - 606 - 8680

free | 828 -274 - 8788

Architectural and Illuminated Sign graphics for Western North Carolina 828-251-2211 www.fastsigns.com/241 December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 99

Events december 6

Weaverville Candlelight Christmas Stroll 6 pm - 9pm downtown weaverville, main st Weaverville will be aglow with luminaries along the streets, local choirs and bands will provide music, and horse and buggy rides will be available through town. Local businesses will be open late for Christmas shopping, and kids can visit with Santa.

free december 6 -20

4th Annual Lighting of the Green tuesdays & fridays 6 pm - 8 pm ab -tech campus Experience the wonder of the holiday season at Fernihurst, an 1870s mansion once the center of social activity for the elite township of Victoria, and Sunnicrest, a Richard Sharpe Smith house once a rental cottage of George Vanderbilt’s.

free | 828 -398 -7567

Christmas in the Park the streets of banner elk , nc This year Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring an 1

11/4/11

www. bannerelk .com /christmas december 7

Christmas Candlelight Tour 4 pm - 8 pm zebulon b . vance birthplace state historic site, 911 reems creek rd, weaverville, nc Experience the customs and traditions of an early 19th century Christmas in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This living history program provides a small glimpse into the Vance family’s observance of the holiday season in the 1830’s.

free, donations welcome 828 - 645 - 6706 or vance @ ncdcr .gov december 7 & 14

French Broad River Garden Club Foundation Greens Market 9am -2pm french broad river garden club , 1000 hendersonville rd, asheville, nc

december 7

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all day event called Christmas in the Park. There will be events going on all day, including the Parade of Lights, tree lighting with Santa, train rides through the luminary lighted park, and Avery County High School’s marching band will be the highlight of the parade!

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Exit 4c off I-240 • Guided Fly Fishing trips 29 Montford Ave, Asheville • Fly Fishing Classes 1-800-227-6732 • Fly Tying Classes www.HunterBanks.com 100

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DESIGN AND INSTALLATION FULL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE LAWN LANDSCAPE HARDSCAPE Brendan Clarke - Owner/Operator 828-712-7901 www.thoseguyslandscapingLLC.com

the spirit of Christmas. With its fresh-cut trees, handmade wreaths, and homemade baked goods, it has the unmistakable sights and scents of this joyous holiday season. Decorative garlands and greenery laced with red ribbon, individually designed nutcrackers, hand-turned wood bowls, local pottery and ironwork will be available. For 86 years, this event has provided area shoppers with unique offerings created by local craftsmen and women. Well known as “Clem’s Cabin,” the property is located across Hendersonville Road from Browntown Road in Biltmore Forest. This event is sponsored by the French Broad River Garden Club Foundation.

www. fbrgcf.org december 7-14

Santa on the Chimney Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park 11am -2pm How is Santa able to climb down millions of chimneys around the world in a single night? He practices, of course. Witness Santa’s daring stunt as he practices on one of the world’s largest chimneys at 315 feet tall. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, complimentary hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities and see live critters.

no additional cost with paid park admission 800 -277- 9611

december 10

Family Business Forum: Benefits of “Family Owned” 8 am continental breakfast 8 :30 am program begins unc asheville’s sherrill center , mountain view room #417 It’s hard to be a business owner. You have to manage changing tax laws, balance time with family and work, care for your employees, and make a dollar. So why bother? Family Business Advisors, Jeff Karges and Rick Pfeiffer, will remind us why “having it all” is worth the work and will tell how us to market that edge into revenue. Rick and Jeff are high school friends who reconnected through LinkedIn after each had successful careers and then started their own company, Relationship Matters, based in Morrisville, NC.

register online at fbf.unca . edu | 828 -232- 5091 december 11

The Nutcracker by the Moscow Ballet 7:30 pm | thomas wolfe auditorium , u.s . cellular center , asheville, nc Doors will open for this event at 6:30 pm. Moscow Ballet has been touring North America for over twenty years bringing classic Russian ballets to life. The Great Russian Nutcracker debuted to rave reviews in 1993 and continues to this day. The company features award-winning and acclaimed principal dancers. In addition to the Great Russian Nutcracker, Moscow

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December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 101

Celebrating 30 years in downtown Asheville

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Events Ballet also performs Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet, Sleeping Beauty and other story ballets. This year’s performance features 200 all new, lavish and hand-embellished costumes by Arthur Oliver.

$29. 50 - $104 . 50 u.s . cellular center box office: 828 -259 - 5736 december 11-29

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol wed -sat 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm | sun 2pm - 4 pm 15 stage lane, asheville, nc We know what happens to Scrooge, but what about his old business partner Marley? Is he truly past redemption, or does every person deserve a chance to change, to do better? In this funny and touching holiday play, see Jacob Marley’s heroic efforts to save Scrooge’s soul, and in the process, save his own.

828 -239 - 0263 | ncstage @ ncstage.org december 12-22

O Holy Night 2pm - 8 pm 14 kt rose gold pendant with sparkling gemstones by Allison Kaufman

flat rock playhouse, 125 south main st, hendersonville, nc

Playhouse Downtown will host a new musical adaptation of the classic Nativity Story told through traditional and modern Christmas music. Four powerful singers are joined by a choir and a live band to present new arrangements of beloved songs and carols. This is a Christmas event that will celebrate the “reason for the season” and is a must-see for anyone who loves the story and music of Christmas. Be sure to check the schedule for exact times.

$35 | 828 - 693 - 0731 december 13

HandMade in America’s Cool Craft Holiday Market fri 5 - 8 pm | sat 10 am - 6 pm | sun 10 am - 4 pm handmade in america , 125 s lexington ave ste. 101, asheville, nc 28801

(entrance on hilliard between church st & lexington ave )

FINE JEWELRY & DESIGN STUDIO

Downtown Asheville 828-254-5088 Hours: Mon-Sat 10:30 - 6 www.jewelsthatdance.com 102

| December 2013

HandMade in America, in partnership with Blue Ridge Food Ventures, will present the second annual Cool Craft Holiday Market, offering people a one-stop shop for purchasing locally made items for the holidays. There will be over 40 of Asheville’s creative vendors, who will be selling everything from natural products, decorative and functional craft items, jewelry, pottery, ornaments, artisanal food products, and much more. Not only will gift givers have the opportunity to purchase quality handmade goods, they will also be putting their money back into our local economy. We cannot think of a better way to spend holiday dollars! Parking for customers will be available in the gravel lot across from HandMade’s entrance.

handmadeinamerica .org | 828 -252- 0121

december 13 -14

25th Annual Warren Haynes Christmas Jam doors open 6 pm | show begins 7pm us cellular center , asheville, nc The Christmas Jam has deservedly earned a reputation as a place for noteworthy performances, including rare appearances and unique collaborations. This year’s edition is sure to keep that tradition alive. Various surprises and unique musical pairings will undoubtedly arise at this event.

$58+ | 828 -259 - 5544 december 14

18th Annual Montford Holiday Tour of Homes 1pm - 5pm montford historic district, 36 montford ave, asheville, nc Come to Montford, Asheville’s most historic neighborhood, as they showcase another offering of homes and spread holiday cheer this year. Explore eclectic architecture that has been restored or carefully constructed to reflect the neighborhood’s historic past. Enjoy homes both old and new and experience all the holiday warmth and hospitality that Montford has to offer.

Festive treats and entertainment will be offered throughout the tour. This is a self-guided tour. With your ticket you will receive a map to all tour locations and information about the individual properties. Proceeds benefit the Montford Neighborhood Association for neighborhood improvement projects and programs for youth at the Montford Recreation Center.

$20 | 828 -280 -1576 december 15

Songs of the Seasons henderson county courthouse Lift your voice in the joy of song during ‘Songs of the Seasons,’ an inspiring holiday sing-along hosted by Four Seasons Compassion for Life. The non-denominational event will be on the steps of the historic Henderson County Courthouse.

The public is invited to this event to share in the uplifting wonder of song in inspiring remembrance of their loved ones during the holiday season. Refreshments will be offered during the event. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held inside the courthouse.

www. fourseasonscfl .org

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1. Gilberto Irragorri, Real Estate developer, wife Marcel, and daughter Gaby 2. Fly-fishing 3. Hunt Mallett, wine expert and owner of Weinhaus, Catherine Rash, catering attendant, with Chef Tom Dinsmore

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Chef Brian Kerr Linda Valerio Stengel on Bella, dressage Omar Botero, Real Estate developer G6 arrival, Landmark Aviation AVL John Pauwels, Elite Limousine, helping kids pan for gold

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9. Samantha Chody on Story, Olympic contenders 10. Michael Lewis, fly-fishing guide 11. Christiana Kahl Gracie, Interior Designer 12. Lynn, Real Estate broker, and Dick Perlmutter, architect

13. Lukas Irragorri 14. Sherry Traynor with daughter Annabel 15. Kym McCarson, spa specialist, with Chris Wilkins, head groom 16. Rilion Gracie, world-renowned Jiu Jitsu Master, on Pirata

17. Jean-Claude (Killy), top barn dog 18. The Lodge

December 2013 | capitalatplay.com 105

december’s other birthstone 18 kwg pendant with a 1.00 ct Round Tanzanite and 0.19 tcw round diamonds $2,895.00 18 kwg diamond and Tanzanite pendant with .26 tcw diamonds, 1.02 ct Pear Shaped Tanzanite $1,965.00 18 kwg pendant with one 0.28 ct Round Tanzanite and 0.13 tcw bezel set round diamonds $1,395.00

S U I T E 130, 43 TOW N S Q UA R E B LV D, A S H E V I L L E , N C 28803 • 828 - 676 -162 5 106

| December 2013

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For a simpler, more rewarding financial partnership, a move to Forest Commercial could be the single best banking decision you’ll ever make.

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FEEDING THE COMMUNITY FEEDING THE COMMUNITY Ingles has made a commitment to support organizations that help our community get the food and resources they need Ingles has mademembers a commitment to support organizations that help our community members get the food and resources they need

HUNGER HAS HAS A CURE HUNGER A CURE Through the assistance of local agencies, providing fresh, nutritious food to

Through the assistance of local agencies, providing fresh, nutritious food to people struggling with hunger people struggling with hunger

FORYOUR YOUR HEALTH HEALTH FOR Ingles supports organizations that provide ďŹ nancial and emotional support for

Ingles supports organizations that provide ďŹ nancial and emotional support for community members living with serious illness. community members living with serious illness.

TOOL S FOR TOOL S SCHOOLS FOR

SCHOOLS

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VALUABLE LEARNING TOOLS

Ingles Markets has contributed over 10 million dollars to schools to purchase VALUABLE LEARNING TOOLS valuable learning tools and equipment.

Ingles Markets has contributed over 10 million dollars to schools to purchase valuable learning tools and equipment.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The BackPack Bunch provides food for students to take home on weekends FOOD FOR THOUGHT when they otherwise would not eat.

The BackPack Bunch provides food for students to take home on weekends when they otherwise would not eat.

| December 2013