The Gallery of the Mountains celebrates its 40th anniversary with a customer appreciation weekend on July 27 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Founded in 1984 by Jim and Jane LaFerla, the gallery showcases the artistic spirit of the Southern Appalachian region. Now owned by Asheville natives Barbara Blomberg, Marilyn Blomberg Patton, and S.M. “Buddy” Patton, it continues to support local artists. Located within the Omni Grove Park Inn, the gallery offers a 10% discount on unique items and features local artist demonstrations. Visitors can enjoy complimentary wine (while supplies last). The gallery represents around 70 artists, showcasing artisan-made jewelry, ceramic tableware, blown glass, and more, all responsibly made in small American studios. Artists Bryan Koontz and Kathleen Doyle will demonstrate their craft during the anniversary celebration weekend. The gallery emphasizes supporting local communities and invites everyone to join in celebrating local craftsmanship and 40 years of patronage. Learn more.
Community:
The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) has allocated nearly $10 million for tourism-related community projects through its inaugural Legacy Investment from Tourism (LIFT) Fund. This funding supports a dozen projects aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and benefiting the community at large. Major investments include $4 million for the Ferry Road Community’s affordable housing and recreational spaces and $2.98 million for the Coxe Avenue Complete Street project by the City of Asheville. These investments align with goals to improve infrastructure, promote sustainability, and enrich cultural offerings in Buncombe County. Learn more.
Happenings:
On Thursday, May 2, 5-9 p.m., Mosaic Realty hosts the Mosaic Art Walk & Benefit with 14 downtown Asheville galleries. This free event showcases local nonprofits at each gallery. United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County seeks volunteers for the Asheville Art Museum. Though sign-ups are full, join the waitlist for potential opportunities. The community car raffle, ending at the event, supports 15 local nonprofits. Buy raffle tickets for a chance to win a VW ID4 and aid the community. Learn more.
In Robert Dubac’s Stand-Up Jesus, Jesus of Nazareth returns after 2,000 years, but this time he’s no carpenter — he’s a stand-up comedian. Shining the light of truth on false prophets, duplicitous politicians and immoral sheeple, J.C.’s razor-sharp satire has been intelligently designed to redeem sinners of all faiths. Friday & Saturday, May 3 & 4, 2024, at 8 p.m. at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets: $32; group rates available. 828-257-4530 or worthamarts.org.
Asheville Parks & Recreation, in collaboration with Au Pair in America, presents Movies in the Park at Pack Square Park. Beginning with “Wonka” on May 10, the series offers free outdoor screenings on the second Friday of each month. The event includes pre-show activities, food vendors, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs, arrive early for the Rec n Roll Play Zone, and enjoy themed giveaways. Parking is free after 6 pm, and pets, smoking, and alcohol are prohibited. Follow Asheville Parks & Recreation on social media for weather-related updates. The lineup features “Barbie” in June, “Guardians of the Galaxy” in July, and “Toy Story” in August. Learn more.
A collaborative initiative with Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, Asheville Humane Society, and the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance offers free microchipping to reunite lost pets with their owners. The event takes place on Friday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance in Asheville. Pet owners can register in advance for flexible appointment times, and walk-ups are accepted as available. Each pet receives a tag featuring a QR code linking finders to owner contact information for quick reunification if lost. Executives from each organization will be available for media interviews. With Memorial Day approaching, follow safety tips to prevent pets from getting lost during summer events. Ensure pets are microchipped, provide a safe space during loud events, use leashes and harnesses, and be mindful of open doors and windows. Visit lostpetsavl.org for scanning locations and to contribute to a safe pet community in Asheville. Learn more.
Hire:
AdventHealth welcomes Emma Wagner, PA-S, to its team at AdventHealth Medical Group Family Medicine at Black Mountain. With a background in biology and society from Cornell University and a master’s in physician assistant studies from Wingate University, Wagner is passionate about preventive medicine and patient advocacy. She values building relationships with her patients and encourages shared decision-making in care plans. Wagner’s arrival addresses community concerns about primary care access in the mountains, aligning with AdventHealth’s mission of whole-person care. She enjoys an active lifestyle with hobbies like hiking, biking, and reading classic novels. Wagner is now accepting new patients at AdventHealth Medical Group Family Medicine at Black Mountain. Read more.
Partnership:
The Asheville Symphony announces a significant partnership with the First Baptist Church of Asheville, extending its Masterworks Series in the church sanctuary for the next three years. Following the closure of the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, all seven Masterworks programs will be performed at FBCA for the 2024-2025 season. Executive Director Daniel Crupi expresses excitement for enriching patron experiences in this venue, while Music Director Darko Butorac highlights the exceptional acoustics and intimacy. Oboist Cara Jenkins praises the unique experience for musicians and audiences alike. This collaboration marks a revival of the symphony’s performances at FBCA, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape in Asheville. Both organizations are committed to providing exceptional orchestral experiences and addressing Asheville’s need for a larger performing arts center. Visit www.ashevillesymphony.org for more information.
Publication:
WNC Business announces its Made In WNC issue for Q3, highlighting the region’s makers and innovators. The issue will showcase success stories and resources for the local maker community, featuring everything from apple juice to airplane components. Publisher Brett Hulsey aims to connect and support WNC’s diverse range of makers. Alongside the focus on makers, the issue will spotlight the Agriculture, Education, and Technology & Manufacturing industries. For more information, contact Info@WNCBusiness.com or claim a free subscription at WNCBusiness.com/Subscribe.