2018 marks the 35th anniversary of the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority and the first year of operation of Explore Asheville as an independent organization. At its annual meeting BCTDA Chair Jim Muth and Explore Asheville President and CEO Stephanie Brown will provide an overview of this monumental year of change and innovation that has led to record breaking performance. An update of tourism economic impact and key indicators will also be provided.
BCTDA ANNUAL MEETING:
Omni Grove Park Inn, Seely Pavilion
290 Macon Ave., Asheville
Wednesday, September 19, 3-6 p.m.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GUEST SPEAKER AND SNEAK PREVIEW OF “ASHEVILLE BY DESIGN”
Special guest Andrew Nelson of National Geographic Travel will share how the organization inspires travel with “passion and purpose” and how businesses can inspire visitors to return again and again. Nelson will also share a preview of the recently filmed feature “Asheville by Design” before it airs on the National Geographic Channel September 20 at 6:30 p.m.
“Asheville by Design” explores the vision and intentionality that gave shape and character to the Asheville area of today. The program is a partnership that continues a longstanding relationship between Explore Asheville and National Geographic Travel, born out of its appreciation for what Asheville is all about and a continued interest in telling stories that reflect the heart of the destination. More information on the program.
HOW TO VIEW VIA NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL
Premiere Date: Thursday, September 20 at 6:30 p.m.
Encore Date: Thursday, September 27 at 9:30 a.m.
On Demand: September 21 – December 20
MORE ON ANDREW NELSON:
Andrew Nelson is the director of editorial projects for National Geographic Travel, contributor and advising editor for the magazine’s new twice-yearly luxury edition. His past work includes The New York Times, Cincinnati Magazine, Salon, ReadyMade and San Francisco Magazine, as well as a visiting professorship at Loyola University teaching social media, journalism and travel writing.