ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Friday, November 8, 1996 TAG: 9611080056
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: A-15 EDITION: METRO
July 1985: Roanoke business leaders announce formation of The River Foundation to create Explore. City manager Bern Ewert becomes foundation's executive director.
October 1990: Foundation announces environmentalist Rupert Cutler is leaving post as president of Washington-based Defenders of Wildlife to lead Explore's proposed environmental center, effective January 1991.
June 1991: River Foundation announces it will not retain Ewert when his contract as project director expires July 31. Cutler succeeds him, eventually taking title "executive director."
June 30, 1994: The River Foundation turns over control of Explore to a state board appointed by the governor; foundation remains as Explore's fund-raising arm. Foundation employees become the authority's exployees.
July 2, 1994: Explore opens to the general public.
Sept 1., 1995: Explore hires its first full-time general manager, Chet Simmons, to oversee day-to-day operations while Cutler focuses on fund-raising.
Oct. 23, 1996: Cutler forces out Simmons, citing conflicting management styles.
Nov. 7, 1996: Cutler announces he's leaving Explore to head Western Virginia Land Trust.
LENGTH: Short : 39 linesby CNB