Announcemen
Come From the Heart: Asheville Chamber member Ian Rudick’s sustainable brand Renew Tees has been recognized by the Green Business Network as one of the 21 Most Sustainable Clothing Brands. Each shirt prevents up to six plastic bottles from entering the ocean and uses recycled polyester, U.S. organic cotton, and TENCEL™ Modal. Mention this write-up to have 10% of your order donated to Food Connection, which Rudick chairs.
Renew Tees • Green Business Network • Food Connection
Buncombe County: Commissioners have established the Helene Recovery Office to coordinate long-term recovery and resilience projects and Kevin Madsen has been named as the County’s first Recovery Officer.
The County also earned their 31st consecutive Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Award.
Read more
Center for Craft: The Center will acquire the American Craft Council Library & Archives, a nationally significant collection relocating to Asheville in 2026. The current exhibition, Archives in Practice, explores how artists use archival materials to connect with heritage and identity. On view through Feb. 17, 2026.
Announcement
UNC Asheville: The University has received a $1.3 million federal TRIO grant to launch a Student Support Services Program for first-generation and low-income students. Beginning Spring 2026, the program will serve 140 students per semester and enhance financial literacy, academic success, and retention.
Advisory
Buncombe County Election Services: Municipal elections for Weaverville, Woodfin, and Woodfin Water & Sewer District are on Nov. 4. Early Voting runs Oct. 16–Nov. 1. Photo ID required.
Voting Info
Funding & Business Resources
Sugar Hollow Solar: Businesses and nonprofits can “safe harbor” commercial solar projects by Dec. 31, 2025, locking in 30–50% federal tax credits before stricter rules take effect. A small deposit secures savings through 2027.
Learn more
Opportunities
Deadlines are approaching for Helene disaster recovery assistance:
Renew NC: Homeowners affected by Tropical Storm Helene can apply for repair and rebuilding funds through the state’s Renew NC Program. Low- and moderate-income households in eligible WNC counties should apply before Dec. 31.
Apply Here
Happenings
Pisgah Legal Services: Don’t miss the Justice Forum on Oct. 23 with keynote speaker Dr. Imani Perry on the theme “Equal Justice for All.” The event is free and will also be livestreamed to regional watch parties.
RSVP
Blue Ridge National Heritage Area: Grammy-nominated duo Darin & Brooke Aldridge headline the Blue Ridge Music Trails Concert Nov. 6 at White Horse Black Mountain as part of the Centennial Asheville Sessions Celebration. Proceeds support regional music heritage.
Event Info
Mission Health: Safely dispose of unwanted prescriptions at Drug Take-Back Day, Oct. 25, at all six Mission Health hospitals. More info
Asheville Parks & Recreation: Richmond Hill Park has partially reopened after major post-Helene repairs, including hiking trails and most of the disc golf course.
Park Info
Recognition
Governor’s Office: Gov. Josh Stein proclaimed October 2025 as “Rediscovering the Mountains of North Carolina Month,” celebrating the unity, culture, and landscapes of the state’s 24 mountain counties and the Sovereign Qualla Boundary.