Tariffs: Their Impact on Your Pocketbook
How trade policy trickles down to the Western North Carolina economy
At February’s Critical Issues Forum, we’ll examine how international trade policies—especially tariffs—impact everyday business operations, consumer prices, and the regional economy. Two dynamic local voices will bring clarity to this complex issue from both a business and economic perspective.
Adam Stephens, President of Nova Kitchen and Bath, will share firsthand how tariffs are affecting small businesses in Western North Carolina. Under his leadership, Nova Kitchens has partnered with contractors, schools, and homeowners while navigating supply chain volatility and changing cost structures. Adam will highlight the challenges local employers face and how trade policy decisions ripple through operations and customer experiences.
Dr. Edward Lopez, Professor of Economics and BB&T Distinguished Professor of Capitalism at Western Carolina University, will offer an economic analysis of how tariffs affect business transactions, consumer pricing, and the global supply chain. With over 25 years of teaching and research in public choice economics, Dr. Lopez brings academic depth and public understanding to issues like trade, regulation, and market dynamics. Dr. Lopez holds a Ph.D from George Mason University and a B.S. from Texas A&M University, both in economics
Join us for an informative and timely discussion that hits close to home—your wallet.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
- Location: Country Club of Asheville, 170 Windsor Road
- Time: Food Service begins at 11:30 AM, Program at 12:00 PM
- Cost: $30 for LAF Members | $40 for Non-Members
- RSVP Deadline: Wednesday, February 18 at Noon
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