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COLUMBUS–-–On Thursday, the Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce hosted a successful Business After Hours event at the Columbus Inn and Suites. The event featured a tour of the inn’s newly renovated rooms.

The goal of Business After Hours events is to provide a platform for business members to network and learn about new events. The Chamber aims to help new businesses and bring industries to the region while working to enhance the overall quality of life for all residents.

The proprietors of Columbus Inn and Suites, Pete and Rupal Bhakta, warmly welcomed everyone and shared their excitement about showcasing the renovations of all their rooms.

“We had been hoping to have the Business After Hours here for a while, but we weren’t quite ready,” Pete said. “After two years and a lot of work, the renovations are completely done, and now is the perfect time for us to reintroduce ourselves to the community.”

Both current and potential members of the Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce, which serves the towns of Saluda, Columbus, Landrum, Tryon, and the surrounding communities, were encouraged to attend the event. The Chamber shared that a person does not have to be a member to attend an event, but joining would allow participation in future events and provide insight into other local organizations and businesses.

Stephanie Winterrowd of Edward Jones, based in Saluda, emphasized the importance of the Chamber for business owners. 

“I think the Chamber is very important for us business owners to support,” said Winterrowd. “It compliments and supports businesses from Landrum to Saluda, which is key as the Saluda Grade Trail looks to connect them further.”

Looking ahead, the Chamber announced several upcoming events, including Feed the Foothills, which will be held at FENCE on Saturday, September 28. Raffle tickets for the event are currently available for purchase online and will also be sold on the day of the event. The grand prize is an ATV.

St. Luke’s Foundation will host the next Business After Hours event on September 19 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

For more information, to buy a raffle ticket, volunteer, or make a donation, visit carolinafoothillschamber.com.