We’ll be sending you our newsletter for the next five days, but if you’re not feeling it after that, we’ll call it quits — no action required. If you like what you see, click any link in this email, and each morning, we’ll keep sending the most relevant news, events, and updates from around Asheville. Our newsletters are completely free to receive and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Share your stories of support
Organizations like Appalachian Wildlife Refuge are seeking donations to continue critical community help. | Photo by Appalachian Wildlife Refuge
Helene revealed just how vital community hubs can be, as neighbors turned to each other for essential resources. Now, the City of Asheville is working to make that support system more permanent. Partnering with Thrive Asheville, the city is working to analyze the network of resilience hubs that emerged, including what worked, where gaps existed, and how to strengthen community response in both “blue skies” times and in future emergencies.
The mapping project could also make recommendations for strategic investment, which local leaders have expressed interest in, pledging $2.1 million in federal recovery funds to support the hubs.
On Saturday, April 18, residents are invited to share their experiences during a day of listening sessions, open mics, and interactive activities at Trinity Episcopal Church downtown. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., but folks can drop in as they like.
Free Golf Simulator with 828 Golf Sim | 4-8 p.m. | The Funkatorium | Free | Swing by the Funkatorium to try this free golf simulator from 828 Golf Sim (no golf experience required), with food + drink specials all day.*
Saturday, April 11
RAD Sip & Shop | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | River Arts District | Free
Over the next year, power management company Eaton will add 300 jobs in Buncombe County, expanding its Arden and Avery Creek facilities. Driven by demand for its low-voltage products, the move will boost production capacity and create high-wage manufacturing roles.
Award
A-B Tech won first place in the Student Team of the Year category at the American Culinary Federation Southeast Regional competition, with alumnus Ezrah Hanson taking home the gold for Best Chef. Get to know these students’ names — in no time, they’ll be opening Asheville’s hottest new restaurants.
Trending
As the crew of the Artemis II mission successfully reached the far side of the moon, so did a piece of WNC. For more than 50 years, Weaverville company A-B Emblem has been the exclusive patch maker for NASA, creating the Artemis II mission patch that the four astronauts wore upon launch — see the special design.
Real Estate
Plans to convert East Asheville’s former Ramada Inn into supportive housing and affordable apartments are back on track, with groundbreaking expected later this summer. In late March, the county briefly filed for foreclosure on $69,000 in unpaid taxes owed by developer Friendship for Affordable Housing — the action was dismissed last week after taxes were paid. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Development
The entryway to America’s Largest Home is under construction. Biltmore is rehabilitating the historic Lodge Gate after Helene damage and years of wear, with an expected completion this month. (WLOS)
Civic
Buncombe County tourism leaders are exploring major attractions, including a performing arts center and sports complexes, to boost visitation and diversify the economy. A study by CSL International found strong demand, with officials saying new projects could draw events and drive long-term growth. (Mountain Xpress)
Motley Fool Money’s top-rated cash back card just got even better. For a limited time, earn a $250 bonus after spending just $500 in the first 3 months. Plus, earn unlimited cash back and pay 0% intro APR well into 2027. Learn more + apply.*
Listen
Did you hear that? Most hearing aids have one processor. These bad boys have two, making speech clearer and crisper by processing speech and noise separately. No wonder 670,000+ customers love them.*
Category
Travel and Outdoors
🐻 A bear-y important bridge
Here’s what the finished land bridge will look like. | Rendering via NCDOT
The crossing along NC-143 at Stecoah Gap near Robbinsville will carry both wildlife and Appalachian Trail hikers over the road on a 220-foot-wide bridge covered in dirt, boulders, and native vegetation. Fencing guides animals toward the bridge while keeping foot traffic on a separate path. WLOS reports that the project is expected to wrap up this year.
Land bridges and other wildlife crossings are becoming increasingly popular across the US — and the Stecoah Gap wildlife crossing is part of a broader collaboration between the NCDOT and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission for additional overpasses, underpasses, culverts, and fencing statewide.
Want to advocate for more local wildlife crossings? Check out ways to support Safe Passage’s mission to make roads safer for wildlife and drivers.
The Buy
The Buy Editor Emily here. Meet my dog Meredith. Like so many incredible pups, she’s a rescue.
Until recently, I didn’t know much about her breed, or how to best care for her. Thanks to Embark’s Breed + Health Dog DNA Test, that’s all changed. I’ve learned Meredith is a mix of American Pit Bull, Australian Cattle Dog, Dalmatian, and that she may be at higher risk for Intervertebral Disc Disease. Now I can take proactive steps to support her health — like keeping her on a balanced diet and opting for a harness over a collar to help reduce strain on her spine.
Try Embark for your dog, discover their unique DNA, and give them the best possible care.
I’m happy to share that there are some very seasoned matchbook collectors in our midst. Yesterday I shared a bit about my new hobby and some spots to start a collection of local souvenirs, and y’all came through with plenty of new places for me to hit. Look out for an updated list here next week.
}})
