2025 Steve Kemp Writers in Residence – Smokies Life has named Jim and Leslie Costa as its 2025 Steve Kemp Writers in Residence. The couple will spend six weeks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park crafting a field guide to the park’s insect life, engaging park visitors in discovering “the little things that run the world.” Explore the project.
Collaboration:
Pack to Give Back – MANNA FoodBank’s “Pack to Give Back” event on June 5 invites local businesses to assemble family-sized food bags for WNC families in need. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is the presenting sponsor, with additional support from Cigna Healthcare, First Horizon, and other corporate partners. This day of service underscores the power of corporate social responsibility in combating hunger. Learn more.
Stemilt Donates Apples to Fight Food Insecurity – Stemilt, a trusted grower and longtime Ingles Markets partner, donated 1,320 cases of Lil Snappers® apples to MANNA FoodBank to help support Western North Carolina communities after the recent flooding. This donation will provide healthy snacks to children and adults during a critical time of need. More about this generous donation.
Expansion:
DMJPS and Potter & Company Merge – DMJPS PLLC is expanding its North Carolina presence by merging with Potter & Company, a respected CPA firm with offices in Monroe, Concord, and Mooresville. This strategic combination grows DMJPS to 10 statewide offices, strengthening its ability to provide personalized, proactive solutions to businesses and organizations across the state. Full merger details.
Happenings:
RAD Half Marathon & 10K Returns – The 4th Annual RAD Half Marathon & 10K, organized by iDaph Events, takes place on June 8 in Downtown Asheville. In support of the River Arts District’s recovery from Hurricane Helene, the event will feature a fast, flat course, live music, and local artists along the route. Participants can enjoy perks like race shirts, finisher medals, and a complimentary beer or gelato at the finish. More information and registration.
New Morning Gallery’s Grand Reopening – After 231 days of restoration following Hurricane Helene, New Morning Gallery celebrates its official reopening on June 20. This Biltmore Village icon invites the community to meet local artists, enjoy live music, and explore new and returning artisan works. Event details and gallery info.
The Last Wide Open at NC Stage Company – North Carolina Stage Company closes its season with The Last Wide Open, a modern musical rom-com playing June 19 – July 13. Directed by Charlie Flynn-McIver, the show features live music and tells the story of Lina and Roberto’s parallel love stories. Half-price night on June 19 and a Pay-What-You-Can night on June 20. Tickets and info.
People Like Me Film Festival – FIRSTwnc and Sproutflix Films are co-hosting the “People Like Me” Film Festival, featuring authentic stories of individuals with disabilities. The festival also includes a microenterprise showcase of businesses led by individuals with disabilities, highlighting inclusion and economic empowerment. Reserve free tickets.
Hire:
AdventHealth welcomes Holly Capps, MPAS, PA-C, to its team at AdventHealth Medical Group Family Medicine at Forge Mountain. As a Hendersonville native and daughter of longtime physician Robert L. Smith, MD, Capps brings a commitment to whole-person, patient-centered care to her community. Read more about this legacy of care.