Mast General Store donated $10,000 to support science education at the new Valle Crucis Elementary School after flood damage disrupted classrooms. The donation, part of their Mountain Strong initiative, will fund long-lasting equipment for the school’s new science lab.
Growth:
United has named Lee Beason as Chief Commercial Officer and welcomed Michael Bridges as Regional VP for North Carolina. The credit union was also recently named an SBA Preferred Lender, enabling it to streamline small business loan approvals and expand access to capital. Learn more at unitedfcu.com/business/borrow/sba-loans.
Happenings:
On Wednesday, August 7, from 4–6 PM, New Morning Gallery kicks off its new seasonal series Golden Hour, spotlighting local artists in an intimate gallery setting. The inaugural event features painter Amy Noack and wood artist Bud Gray. Guests can meet the artists, enjoy refreshments, and soak in the creativity of Asheville’s Historic Biltmore Village. More info at newmorninggallery.com
The Wortham Center has announced its 2025/26 Season Lineup. From Emmy-winning performers and Shakespearean classics to glow-in-the-dark puppet shows and Grammy-winning choirs, the Wortham Center’s new season has something for everyone. Highlights include: Soweto Gospel Choir (Sep 27), Pilobolus (Oct 10 & 11), Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery in The Trouble with Angels (Mar 3), All Things Equal: The Life & Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Mar 26–27). Explore the full lineup and reserve your seats at worthamarts.org.
Join Family Forward NC’s Bright Ideas series for quick, 30-minute LinkedIn Live sessions packed with practical tips for building supportive workplaces. HR pros and business leaders are invited to tune in on August 5, 6, or 7 at noon. Register here.
Impact:
A new analysis reveals that the Healthy Opportunities Pilot (HOP) generated $114 million in economic output and nearly 900 jobs across WNC from March 2022–June 2025. By addressing critical health-related social needs like food and housing through NC Medicaid funds, HOP is strengthening both community health and the regional economy.
Three sold-out shows by Widespread Panic drew more than 19,000 fans and generated over $8 million in direct spending in the Asheville area. The band’s return after several years brought a welcome boost to local businesses and nonprofits. More concerts are coming soon at HarrahsCherokeeCenterAsheville.com.