Asheville, NC – On Tuesday November 27, 2012, charities, families, businesses and individuals are coming together to transform the way people think about, talk about and participate in the giving season. #GivingTuesday™ is a national campaign to celebrate and encourage charitable activities that support nonprofit organizations at the start of the annual holiday season. HandMade in America invites and encourages our community to participate in this national day of giving by supporting WNC’s nonprofits.

West Gardiner, ME—The Maine Crafts Association (MCA) announced long time MCA staff member, Sadie Bliss, has accepted the position of Executive Director.

South Arts is pleased to announce the appointment of Suzette (Susie) Surkamer as executive director effective December 6, 2012.

As the West Coast’s first market of the year, the Seattle Gift Show returns to the Washington State Convention Center with a new Thursday – Sunday date pattern.  From January 17-20, 2013, retailers can find everything they need to start the year off right.  From a wide range of product in countless category options, to innovative designs and the industry’s biggest names all under one roof, the Seattle Gift Show takes the lead this winter.

As the first edition under Urban Expositions management, the January 25-28, 2013 California Gift Show will  welcome an expanded exhibitor base, including established industry leaders, emerging newcomers  and two new product categories custom-tailored to the Southern California  lifestyle  – Boardwalk and Outdoor Living. Free parking for buyers, discounted hotel rates, a full-scale educational program and a host of other new buyer services further enhance the offerings buyers will find at the revitalized show at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

CERF+ has activated the CERF+ Artists’ Relief Exchange to connect artists in need of help with offers of assistance. This new online mechanism for donations can be accessed at exchange.craftemergency.org or through the Studio Protector website.

Tools, household items, and offers of volunteer help with clean up can be listed. Artists can also post specific needs on the Exchange. Goods and services listed on the CERF+ Artists’ Relief Exchange must be offered for free. In the spirit of the Exchange, it is expected that items received will not be sold, but rather, relisted or passed on to another artist when they are no longer needed.