The City of Asheville is converting the storm-damaged front nine of the Municipal Golf Course into a championship-length disc golf course. Designed with input from pro disc golfer Chris Dickerson, the 18-hole course will open August 1 with rates starting at $7 for city residents. Learn more and book your tee time.
Join Appalachian Mountain Community Health Centers on Saturday, August 2 at 11:00 a.m. for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new Southside Pharmacy and launch of their Mobile Medical RV at 77 McDowell Street. Stick around for the 3rd Annual Health Fair featuring free screenings and community resources.
Awards:
Tina Kinsey, Chief Administrative Officer at Asheville Regional Airport, received the 2025 Air Service Achievement Award from Airports Council International – North America. Her leadership has expanded AVL’s nonstop destinations to over 20, increased seat capacity by 230%, and helped make AVL the third largest airport in NC.
AdventHealth Hendersonville recently honored two standout nurses with the DAISY Award for extraordinary patient care: Alisa Salvaggio, BSN, RN was recognized for compassionate support during a family’s childbirth experience at The Baby Place. Frannette Miller, BSN, RN shines in the Behavioral Health Unit, where patients describe her as “a ray of light” during challenging times.
Community
AdventHealth plans to apply for a Certificate of Need to add 129 more acute care beds to their forthcoming hospital in Weaverville—bringing the total to 222 beds. The expansion is based on local feedback and aims to offer greater access to emergency and specialty care for Buncombe and surrounding counties. MoreCareWNC.com
UNC Asheville’s STEAM Studio received a $200,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina to process trees felled by Hurricane Helene. Salvaged timber will be turned into free or discounted lumber for rebuilding projects, artists, and community use. The project also gives students hands-on experience with sawmilling, design, and recovery.
Mast General Store locations donated more than $70,000 to local land trusts this June during their annual Land Trust Day. Proceeds will help preserve open spaces, protect waterways, and support storm recovery. This year’s event highlighted recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene and the importance of conserving natural landscapes for future generations.
Retirement
Paul Vest will retire as President & CEO of the YMCA of Western North Carolina at the end of 2025. Under his leadership, the organization expanded to serve 50,000 members, grew revenues to $31 million, launched YMCA Camp Watia, and became the state’s largest provider of school-age childcare. A nationwide search for a successor is underway.