Mountain Area Health Education Center’s (MAHEC) 50th anniversary was celebrated at the Asheville City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 12. The Proclamation honored MAHEC’s significant contributions to healthcare education, patient care, and community health in Western North Carolina. Attended by MAHEC leadership and staff, the event highlighted MAHEC’s rich history and remarkable achievements over the past five decades. For further information and story ideas, Kathi Petersen, MAHEC Communications Manager, is available for inquiries. Learn more.
Collaboration:
Devil’s Foot Beverage Company introduces the Soundwave Series, featuring four new non-alcoholic craft sodas developed in collaboration with premier music venues in Asheville. Each venue will feature Devil’s Foot beverages as headliners, with proceeds supporting the Asheville Music Professionals (AMP). The series kicks off with the Orange Peel Sparkling Orange on March 16th, followed by three other flavors. This initiative aims to enhance the live music experience while supporting local musicians. Learn more at devilsfootbrew.com.
Learning-To-Lead LLC proudly collaborates with Kit Roberts, Director of WCI’s Recovery Friendly Workplace Program, to offer comprehensive guidance to Western North Carolina employers on hiring and retaining employees in recovery. They also provide access to resources such as peer support and recovery coaching. Additionally, they highlight Atlas Precision as an exemplary employment partner, led by HR professional Ellen Steele, aiming to achieve the Recovery Friendly Workplace designation. For more information on these initiatives, contact Kit Roberts at kroberts@wciinc.org or Christian Messick at christianm@firstinc.org.
Growth:
Electronic Office (EO), a leading IT services provider in the WNC, has experienced remarkable growth of over 50% in the past three years. To enhance client service, Joe Jakubielski has joined EO to spearhead new business development, while Lily Thornhill has joined the client service team. The CEO, Kemper Brown Jr., emphasized Jakubielski’s expertise in cybersecurity and EO’s dedication to serving clients. Thornhill’s arrival reflects EO’s commitment to supporting clients in evolving technology landscapes. With a focus on providing unparalleled IT solutions, EO looks ahead to future challenges and opportunities. For more information, visit www.electronicoffice.net.
Happenings:
North Carolina Stage Company presents “Witch” by Jen Silverman, a wickedly dark comedy directed by NC Stage co-founder Angie Flynn-McIver. Set in the village of Edmonton, a charming devil bargains for souls, but Elizabeth, labeled a witch, proves resistant. Featuring a mix of local and out-of-town actors, this riveting play explores themes of desire and temptation. Season sponsors include ArtsAVL, The North Carolina Arts Council, and The Shubert Foundation. Catch “Witch” from March 15 to April 7, 2024, at North Carolina Stage Company in downtown Asheville, NC. Ticket information available at ncstage.org.
The Asheville Symphony presents “Masterworks 5: Violin Virtuosi”, featuring a rare all-violin, all-concerto program as part of its Artist Residency celebration of the violin. Husband and wife duo Noah Bendix-Balgley and Shanshan Yao, both esteemed violinists, will perform three distinct violin concertos. This exceptional program showcases Bach’s Double Violin Concerto, Butterfly Lovers, and Brahms’ technically demanding violin concerto. The event, part of a week-long residency, highlights the impact and legacy of the violin. Performances will be held at the First Baptist Church of Asheville on Saturday, March 16, with tickets available at www.AshevilleSymphony.org.
Opportunity:
The City of Asheville introduces O.U.R. Asheville – a Community Engagement Leadership Academy starting this spring. Open to Asheville residents, the academy offers hands-on learning in community connectedness, research, development, and mental health, with a stipend of $500 for completing all 8 weeks. Graduates will become “O.U.R. Asheville Community Connectors,” equipped to organize events and lead discussions. The initiative was shaped by community input during public safety and equity-focused engagements. Findlay House Global led the academy’s creation, funded by the City’s 2022 American Rescue Plan Act award. Applications for the first round close soon, with updates available on the City’s Engagement Hub. Learn more.