Staff Reports

21 Farms to Participate in This Year’s ASAP’s Annual Farm Tour

The Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project invites the community to explore 21 local farms during its annual Farm Tour on September 21-22, offering guided and self-guided experiences, farm demonstrations, tastings, and Spanish-language tours to celebrate regional agriculture and reconnect visitors with local farming practices.

Wee Trade to Host Summer Sale Event in Asheville Area

The Wee Trade community's annual summer sale event, featuring 45,000 square feet of consigned goods at discounts of 70-90%, will take place from August 2-4, 2024, at the WNC Ag Center, with a special presale for media and eligible families on August 1.

Foothills Conservancy Breaks Ground on Mountain Bike Trail

The Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina, in collaboration with local partners, has broken ground on a new mountain bike park at Catawba Meadows Park in Morganton, featuring over five miles of trails for all skill levels, with an anticipated public opening in October 2024.

Economic Impact of WNC Nature Center Revealed in New Report

A new report reveals that the WNC Nature Center and its nonprofit partner, Friends of the WNC Nature Center, generated a significant $23 million economic impact in Buncombe County in 2023, highlighting their vital role in local tourism, job creation, and environmental education.

SECU Foundation Invests $1 Million in Lead for North Carolina Program

Funding to bolster local government leadership in the Tar Heel State.

16th Annual Asheville Comedy Festival Set to Bring Laughter Back to the Mountains

The 16th Annual Asheville Comedy Festival, taking place from August 7th to 10th, 2024, will feature over 40 top comedians, including headliner Tom Segura, across four days of diverse comedic performances at iconic venues, promising an unforgettable celebration of humor and community in the stunning backdrop of North Carolina's mountains.

MO Summit Set to Return to Asheville

The highly anticipated MO Summit will return to Asheville from April 21-23, 2025, after a five-year hiatus. Held at the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel, this prestigious event will gather impact CEOs from around the world who are dedicated to reshaping capitalism and addressing critical social and environmental challenges. The three-day summit will feature panel discussions […]

Preserving Peregrine Falcons: Brevard College Inspires Students in Trail Conservation Efforts

Brevard College collaborates to protect peregrine falcons by engaging students in designing educational signs and materials for the Devil's Courthouse trail, with the goal of raising awareness and promoting adherence to trail rules.

Local Man Sentenced to Over 9 Years in Prison for Multiple Felonies

Lafoy Ball Jr., 57, of Hendersonville, was sentenced to a minimum of 110 months and a maximum of 144 months in prison after pleading guilty to three counts of Felony Larceny, including one Felony Larceny from a Construction Site, and acknowledging his status as a Habitual Felon.

City Launches Community Space Upfit Project

The City of Asheville’s Community Space Upfit Project, funded by federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, bridges the digital divide and promotes equity by providing technology and infrastructure for virtual community meetings and emergency briefings.