Mars Hill University is celebrating a generous gift of $1 million from donor Paul Romesburg to boost the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. Romesburg, a retired entrepreneur and business executive, recognized the resource challenges faced by the university’s program and decided to invest in its potential. The center, led by executive director James Heinl, aims to empower students with practical entrepreneurial skills, offering resources like a student business club, scholarships, internships, and community outreach. Romesburg’s donation has already made an impact, providing student incubator grants and supporting local high school initiatives. The program, designed by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, emphasizes real-world skills. Additionally, the university received a $200,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission, aiding the center’s initiatives, including scholarships. Learn more
Expansion:
AdventHealth Hendersonville is expanding its healthcare services with a cutting-edge Medical Office Building, addressing the growing needs of the community. At the groundbreaking ceremony on October 10, 2023, attended by local leaders, AdventHealth highlighted the demand for accessible, local, and comprehensive healthcare. Brandon Nudd, President & CEO of AdventHealth Hendersonville, emphasized the community’s trust in their holistic care approach. The new 60,000 square foot facility, designed by Hoefer Welker architecture firm, will house surgical facilities, physician offices, and diagnostic services. By reinvesting funds locally, AdventHealth, as a faith-based non-profit, can provide this crucial expansion, meeting both patient needs and doctor preferences. In collaboration with MedDevelopment, Frank L. Blum Construction, and WGLA engineering, the building is set to open in November 2024, enhancing healthcare accessibility for the region. Learn more.
Happenings:
The Christine Avery Learning Center is hosting two events for the community. First, the Rooted Gala on October 13, 2023, at Pleb Winery, marks the beginning of a capital campaign aiming to raise $3 million in three years. These funds will establish an advanced childcare facility, elevating the standard of education and care for Asheville’s children. The Gala features live entertainment, dinner, a silent auction, and a keynote speech by County Commissioner Jasmine Beech-Ferrara. Tickets are available at cwalearningcenter.com. Following the Gala, on October 14, the 2nd Annual Falling with Families Fall Festival at MLK Park offers a day of food, fun, and entertainment, uniting the community with activities for all ages, including games, crafts, raffles, and more. The Learning Center invites everyone to participate, fostering community bonds and supporting their vision of exceptional childcare and education for Asheville’s children. For further details, visit cwalearningcenter.com.
Join MeltSO of Asheville on Saturday, October 14, from 9-11 a.m. for their Fall Fest supporting MANNA Food Bank! Downtown Asheville neighbors have generously donated fantastic prizes for a raffle, and all proceeds will go to MANNA. The prizes include Free Fondue for a Year for 10 lucky winners, a 2-night stay at Home2Suites Biltmore Village, gift baskets from Asheville Tourists, 2 Ticket vouchers for a show at The Orange Peel, a $100 gift certificate from Tupelo Honey, and tickets to the MANNA Empty Bowls Event. The first 100 attendees will receive $15 MeltSO Certificates, and there will be delightful food and drink samples available. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a great time while contributing to a worthy cause! Learn more.
Asheville’s renowned cider extravaganza, Carolina CiderFest, is making a grand return. Organized by Shay & Company in collaboration with the North Carolina Cider Association, the festival is set to take place at McCormick Field on October 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with VIP access starting at 10:30 a.m. Attendees can indulge in an array of tastings, including hard cider, mead, apple wine, and seltzers. The event promises more than just beverages; visitors can relish artisanal foods, live music, and an assortment of delectable treats such as local cheeses, baked goods, caramels, and ice cream. Takeaway options include bottled and canned ciders. VIP ticket holders will enjoy early entry, VIP parking, extra snacks, and the chance to sample exclusive, limited-release ciders and meads. With a history of selling out, early ticket purchase is recommended. The festival not only celebrates cider but also supports the state’s cider industry, contributing to initiatives like the NC Cider Trail map. For tickets and details, visit www.carolinaciderfest.com.
On October 21, the Asheville Symphony will enchant music enthusiasts with “Masterworks 2: The Great Gate” at the First Baptist Church of Asheville, featuring performances at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Led by Music Director Darko Butorac, the concert will showcase renowned pianist Drew Peterson in Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major, blending classical and jazz elements with virtuosic expertise. The program also includes Mussorgsky/Ravel’s celebrated “Pictures at an Exhibition,” vividly depicting Viktor Hartmann’s artworks, and Silvestrov’s minimalist and nostalgic “Evening Serenade.” The intimate venue’s brilliant acoustics promise an immersive experience. Get tickets at www.ashevillesymphony.org.