West Virginia Executive Summer 2017 | Page 27

[ community ] CELEBRATE r e i r b n e e r G ey Vall In June 2016, an unprecedented flood changed the lives of thousands of West Vir- ginians indefinitely. Hundreds of businesses were either damaged or destroyed, includ- ing many in the highly impacted towns of White Sulphur Springs and Rainelle. While these towns have worked tirelessly over the past year to put the pieces back together, the neighboring city of Lewis- burg struggled to let the rest of the state know it remained open for business, and tourism suffered. For the Spring 2017 issue, West Virginia Executive collaborated with the Green- brier Valley’s resilient business commu- nity to showcase that the area is home to captivating landscapes and historic land- marks as well as active business districts and vibrant communities that are poised for a comeback. On June 22, 2017, a special network- ing reception was held at The Historic General Lewis Inn to continue the cele- bration. The event brought together busi- ness, nonprofit and government leaders in an effort to ignite conversation and ulti- mately toast the Greenbrier Valley’s past, present and future success.  SAMANTHA CART KENSIE HAMILTON FAUBER “I love living and working in the Greenbrier Valley because of the people and the vibrant sense of community. West Virginia Executive’s Celebrate Greenbrier Valley reception brought together so many of us from diverse spheres of influence. It was truly a celebration of what makes this place unique and special.” – Micah Labishak, Development Director, Greenbrier Valley Theatre “This event was an eye-opener for me. I made several valuable contacts and became acquainted with very interesting people with whom I had much in common. Although this is a progressive community, I had never previously met some of the professionals and business owners. The West Virginia Executive staff was welcoming and genuine. Topping off the event were extravagant hors d’oeuvres and beverages enjoyed by all.” – Pat Bauserman, Photojournalist, West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine SPONSORED BY neathawk.pdf 12/15/06 9:13:35 AM “We are a tourist destination. When I see a bunch of people walking downtown going in and out of shops, that makes me happy. I know they are boosting our economy, and it is greatly appreciated. Working at the chamber gives me an opportunity to form relationships with many local business owners. These folks work so hard, so it is my pleasure to support and promote their businesses. My favorite part of living in the Greenbrier Valley is the easy access to the river—fishing and kayaking down the Greenbrier River is our favorite family activity. We live right in town, so we can walk or ride our bikes to all the great restaurants and shops Lewisburg has to offer. It’s a cozy place to live surrounded by wonderful people and amazing scenery.” – Ashley Vickers, Executive Director, Greater Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce WWW.WVEXECUTIVE.COM S U M M E R 2 017 27