Kate Lambert with Uptown Farms in Missouri takes you through the important components of how to strategically market your agricultural products.   Discover how to differentiate your brand, differentiate your product, communicate your value and nurture your customers and prospects. Walk away with product and personal branding questions to answer and apply to your operation right away!

And for the Kids? They’ll love the Chick-fil-A Mini Moo Mile! This fun run starts just after the 8K & 5K and each child will receive a finisher’s prize.

A race is only as good as the volunteers and you’re a good one! Let us know if you can help!

1. Bricks-And-Mortar

2. Public Education

3. Planning, Survey and Designation

The Asheville Gallery of Art presents the extraordinary paintings of Joyce Schlapkohl and Sally Lordeon, during the month of July, in an exhibition titled ’From Realism to Abstract’. The opening reception will be held on Friday, July 1, from 5:00-8:00pm.

All artists, whether realistic or abstract, use the same visual language to put together their paintings. The difference is that realistic artists use that visual language to describe their subjects, whereas abstract artists use the same visual language, in conjunction with subject matter, to express feelings or ideas. ‘From Realism to Abstraction’ focuses on that ‘perfect’ blend of creating both types of beautiful compositions and invites viewers to participate in an epic art journey along the way.

“Painterly realism” best describes Joyce’s oil paintings. Her strong focal point, creative design, and bold clear color, revealing light and shadow, invite you into her paintings but it’s her emotional response to her various subjects that holds the viewer’s attention. Her subjects vary from landscape, flowers, animals, still life and any subject that moves her and encourages a sense of sharing that response with others. Joyce declares; “Western North Carolina is an artist’s dream for a variety of subjects and seasons.”

After receiving a Master’s Degree in Business, at UNC Chapel Hill, Joyce returned to painting, her first love, when she attended Florida Atlantic University to study art. She continues her art education through workshops with nationally known artists. In Joyce’s words; “I’m very fortunate to be a full-time painter and occasional teacher. Putting paint on canvas to create a memorable piece of art is amazing, exciting and rewarding”

Joyce’s studio is in Waynesville, NC. She exhibits at The Asheville Gallery of Art and several other well-known galleries.
Visit Joyce’s website: www.joycepaints.com

Many of Sally’s abstract paintings include a horizontal line, suggesting a landscape tableau. In those artworks, she uses the elements of color, shape, texture and value to help the viewer envision a sense of place and arouse a personal meaning. In Sally’s other abstracts, she uses those elements to express elan, movement, and energy, with the intent of fostering a positive, spirited feeling. Her art has been described as powerful, yet serene. Sally quotes; “Abstract art gives me, as an artist, a unique voice that elicits openness and expression, engaging the viewer in the same way. There is so much to explore in abstract painting and I love that.”

Sally studied fine arts at Chatham University in Pennsylvania. She moved to the majestic mountains of Asheville, NC more than thirty years ago and after a successful career as a technical writer and college textbook author, Sally returned full-time to her first passion—her love of color, form and the ‘divine’ pleasure of painting.

Sally’s work is exhibited locally at Asheville Gallery of Art and other well-known galleries as well as two galleries in Los Angeles. She has been the featured artist at The Asheville Airport Gallery.

Joyce Schlapkohl’s ‘Field of Sunflowers’ was painted at the Biltmore Estate. “I visit every year, in September, to paint the endless field of sunflowers. This year is even more meaningful with the sunflower representing a symbol for peace in the Ukraine.

Joyce Schlapkohl’s ‘Carolina Mountain Glow’ represents one of our beautiful, majestic and everchanging landscapes.

Joyce Schlapkohl’s ‘Boat Roundup’ was inspired by the lighting on each surface and the sun, fun and relaxation of being on the water

Sally Lordeon’s ‘It’s a Wonderful World’, acrylic, showcases the exquisiteness and warmth of our own personal places.

Sally Lordeon’s ‘Wisp’, acrylic and gold leaf, demonstrates energy bursting into time and space.

Sally Lordeon’s ‘ Isthmus I & II’,mixed media, is a powerful, yet serene, abstract tableau on two canvases.

ince 2003, the Bearfootin’ Art Walk has helped raise funding for Downtown Hendersonville and a variety of local non-profits. In addition to raising funds, the bears offer a window into good work being done by community organizations in Henderson County.

The Bearfootin’ Bears arrive as blank slates before local artists transform each in a spectacular fashion, with creative themes ranging from Mona Lisa to Blue Ridge Mountain scenery. After the “Reveal” event in early May, the bears then take up residence in downtown Hendersonville for the duration of the summer and fall, up until auction. Participants bid during the auction to raise funds for local non-profits and Downtown Hendersonville. Winning bids up to $3,000 are split evenly between the downtown program and the nonprofit chosen by the sponsor, while bid amounts exceeding $3,000 are directed entirely to the non-profit. In 2021, the Bears raised more than $100,000, and in 2022 we hope to continue the tradition of giving.

GreenWorks’ Bee City USA Asheville presents:

RAFFLE for a customized native pollinator garden

(location must be in Buncombe County or adjacent)

Winner will receive a fully installed 10 ft X 10 ft native pollinator garden (valued at $1,500).

Prize includes:

* Consultation with Asheville Bee City member to establish garden location and personalized garden plan;

* Complete site preparation and soil conditioning (if needed);

* Up to 30 native plants and shrubs to be planted by Bee City Asheville “Pollenteers” and;

* A detailed management plan for your new garden!

Only 250 tickets available between July 1 to July 31. Drawing takes place on August 1, 2022.

Official 2022 Raffle Rules

PROCEEDS

This raffle is a fundraising event, and all net proceeds benefit the Brevard Music Center (BMC). Brevard Music Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN# 56-0729350

DRAWING

The drawing will take place on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 at 3:00pm EDT. All mail, phone, and internet orders must be received by 11:59pm EDT on Monday, November 14, 2022.

TICKETS

The cost to purchase a single entry (“Ticket”) for the Raffle is $125 (U.S. Funds only) and is not tax deductible.

DETAILS

1. By entering this raffle, entrants accept and agree to be bound by all the rules, limitations and restrictions set forth here and that their names and/or likenesses may be disclosed to and used by the news media and may otherwise be used by BMC for publicity purposes.
2. The winner may choose a new 2022 Volvo, Subaru, or Hyundai prize vehicle from Hunter Automotive Group of Fletcher, NC with an MSRP up to $50,000.
3. Vehicle choice will be subject to the current available inventory of the dealer. BMC reserves the right to substitute a Volvo, Subaru, or Hyundai model of equal value.
4. The winner is responsible for all taxes, delivery costs, dealer fees, and any options he or she may choose above the vehicle’s manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) greater than $50,000.
5. The gross winnings of the raffle will be reported to the federal and state tax authorities at the MSRP and the winner is responsible for income tax withholding prior to taking title to the prize.
6. Individuals may purchase as many tickets as they wish; however, only 1,500 tickets will be sold.
7. Participants must be 18 years old or older.
8. BMC employees, faculty, and students 18 or older are eligible to participate.
9. Winnings are not redeemable for cash.
10. If a minimum of 600 tickets is not sold, all ticket holders will receive a full refund and the raffle will not occur.
11. BMC does not make or provide any representation, guarantee or warranty, expressed or implied, in connection with the car and accepts no liability or responsibility regarding the construction or condition of the car.

WINNINGS

Once the winner has selected a prize vehicle, the Dealer will notify BMC of the award vehicle’s MSRP. BMC will calculate the required federal income taxes due. The raffle winner is responsible for remitting the funds to BMC for the federal income tax. Brevard Music Center is required by law to report the base MSRP of the vehicle the winner chooses as gaming income to federal and state authorities and to withhold and deposit federal income taxes equal to 25% of the MSRP less the wager (raffle ticket). The winner’s payment of the federal taxes to BMC will be deposited with the US Federal Treasury and the winner will receive credit for the taxes remitted. In order for the dealer to release the winner’s vehicle, the winner will need to provide the following to BMC:

1. A completed form W-9.
2. Payment to BMC of the appropriate amount of federal tax withholding in cash or certified check.

Once both of these are received, BMC will authorize the dealer to release the vehicle. The winner will receive a Form W-2G by January 31, 2023 to use in preparing their 2022 income tax return.

Buncombe County is excited to announce the inquiry process is now open for the 2022 Homeowner Grant Program. This program is officially in its second year, and qualified homeowners will have an opportunity to receive financial assistance for housing-related costs. The program website is now accepting inquiries for support, or homeowners can call (828) 250-5500. You must call or submit an inquiry to determine eligibility.

With the FY23 budget approval, the Board of Commissioners approved $300,000 for the program, and through a collaborative partnership, residents in the City of Asheville and the Town of Woodfin will be eligible to receive additional assistance. You may qualify for up to $300 in unincorporated Buncombe County, and up to $500 in City of Asheville and Woodfin. Please note that applicants who received grants last year will need to re-apply.

Through this program, residents who own residential property in Buncombe County that they have lived in as their primary residence for at least five years and who earn at or less than 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) as a household may be eligible to participate. Those who apply for the program and meet these criteria may receive up to $300 from Buncombe County and up to $200 from the City of Asheville or the Town of Woodfin.

If eligible, grantees may choose to have grant funds applied to their property tax bill and/or paid and applied to other housing-related obligations such as housing costs, mortgage, or homeowner’s insurance. Payments are made directly to the source of the approved bill. Payments will not be made directly to individuals. There are several new aspects to this year’s program including new eligibility requirements, and now mobile-home owners may receive the grants.

• You must have owned and lived in your home for 5 years or more
• Your home must by your primary and only residence
• Your household income is at or below 80% of area median income (AMI)
• Your household cannot already be receiving tax deferment assistance like elderly/disabled, or Veterans exemptions.
• You must not have more than $60,000 in liquid resources (for example: your cash on hand, checking & savings accounts combined, or other investments available to you within 7 days)

The inquiry process will be open through Sept. 30. Eligible homeowners can submit an inquiry on the homeowner grant website or call (828) 250-5500 to start the application process. Phone support is available in any language. Please note that we anticipate a high volume of calls and inquiries at the onset, and it may take a few weeks for a case manager to get back with you.

“If you think you may qualify, but you aren’t sure, please give our team a call,” says Economic Services Director Phillip Hardin. “We know there are a number of unique circumstances, and our staff will work with homeowners to help find solutions.”

As a small nonprofit, we rely on donations, memberships, and program fees to continue to preserve and promote the history of our unique region. Still, we want to make sure that anyone, regardless of income, can attend our programs.

In 2020, we began offering our “Community Funded Ticket” program. This program allows anyone to register for our in-person or virtual events at no cost and with no additional barriers. We’ve been delighted by the response to this program with many participants donating extra with their ticket purchases to ensure that our Community Fund account stays active.

As we start as new fiscal year, we hope that you will consider making a donation to our Community Fund to help continue this program through the remainder of 2022 and well into 2023.

A $10 donation provides a ticket to one of our virtual events.

A $25 donation provides a ticket to one of our in-person events.

A $50 donation provides a family membership to a family who could not otherwise afford to be a member of WNCHA. As you know, members receive free and discounted tickets to our events for the entire year of membership.

Your support is vital! We appreciate you!

The Omni Grove Park Inn, an award-winning, 513-room resort set in the idyllic Blue Ridge Mountains just minutes from downtown Asheville, N.C., is celebrating The 30th National Gingerbread House Competition™, which is the nation’s largest, hosted at the resort annually. Beginning July 6, 2022 the competition registration is officially now open here through November 14, 2022. The competition will be held and winners will be announced on November 21, 2022.

New elements for The 30th National Gingerbread House Competition™ include:

• Introduction of 10th Judge, Ashleigh Shanti, chef/owner of Good Hot Fish & 2020 James Beard finalist.
• Addition of six brand-new specialty awards and increased prizes (60% increase to years past) across the four age categories, which include Best Use of Sprinkles, Most Unique Ingredient, Longest Standing Competitor, Best Use of Color, Pop Culture Star, Most Innovative Structure, and Best Use of Spice.
• All registered competitors will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite piece of the entire competition to determine the winner of the new People’s Choice: Best in Show award.

The full press release announcing the official rules and entry forms can be found here and below, and a highlight reel and hi-res imagery from last year’s competition can be found here. Please let me know if you will consider the news on behalf of The Omni Grove Park Inn!

The exhibit features thought-provoking photos taken by students, faculty, and staff while traveling abroad.

Listen. Dance. Feel the music and that will answer, “Why the “Legends of Africa?” Africa is the core and essence of where so much of humanity and music has originated. It has forever influenced music and cultures throughout the world with the diaspora of its people. Over the years, LEAF has connected deeply with many African artists and presented artists from 32 of the 54 countries on the continent. These bonds and our love of Africa, bring us back the magic of not just the continent, but its people, our family. So join us for a true gathering of friends and the rekindling of traditions that have made the past 27 years of LEAF memorable.

“The shortest distance between two people is a story, a song, or a dance.”
Masankho Banda from Malawi.

Who is an African Legend you admire? Chinobay of Uganda said he’s been inspired by the music he listened to during Apartheid. He spoke of Miriam Makeba (nicknamed Momma Africa) a South African singer, songwriter and activist whose music was socially responsible and carried so much power for the people. What makes you a Legend is the MESSAGE you carry to the world.

In flow with Chinobay’s reflection, the artwork is a masterpiece created by legendary artist Trek 6 inspired by his work in South Africa while producing a documentary. Trek spoke about how the sunrises and sunsets in Africa were surreal, thus he began with a beautiful sun design.  A wall of drums in South Africa, where they host people from different tribes bringing food, song and art inspired the drums. In Trek’s own words, “Africa is cosmic, colorful, and the center to our past. From it we radiated.”We are honored by his artistic vision.

• Sale!

  

  Festival Weekend PLUS Pass

  $175.00 – $203.00

  October 20-23, 2022 *Must be purchased by LEAF Member* Thursday 4:30pm to Sunday 7pm including overnight tent camping.

• Sale!

  

  Festival Weekend Pass

  $135.00 – $159.00

  October 21-23, 2022 Fri 9am – Sun 7pm. Includes overnight camping

• Sale!

  

  Festival Community Pass

  $95.00 – $105.00

  Fri 4:30pm – 2am, Sat 9am – 2am, Sun 9am – 7pm. No overnights / camping. No Thu. access. Must have alternate overnight accommodations nearby

• Sale!

  

  Festival Saturday Pass

  $53.00 – $59.00

  Saturday, October 22, 2022, 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM. No overnight camping.

If you’re behind on your water bill or afraid your water might get cut off, a new resource might be able to help you. On Jan. 4, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners approved more than $450,000 in federal funding for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). The initiative is aimed at preventing water disconnections and helping reconnect drinking and wastewater services.

The LIHWAP will be administered by Buncombe County-based Eblen Charities. The nonprofit will make payments directly to utilities on behalf of qualifying households. The program is slated to run through Sept. 30, 2023 or until funds are exhausted.

Eligibility requirements

Households that currently receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Work First services, or those that received Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) services from Oct. 1, 2020-Sept. 30, 2021, are automatically eligible to receive this benefit if their water services have been cut off or are in danger of being cut off.

For additional eligibility information or to apply, please contact Eblen Charities at (828) 255-3066.

Commit to treating yourself to a year of professional live theatre with a 2022-23 Season Pass! Whether you’re looking for flexible tickets to attend each show as you know your own schedule, or whether you’re a “book it ahead” person who has a favorite seat you just have to have: we’ve got you covered with the Season Pass!

This flex pass gives you first choice at seats or, if you prefer, time to wait and decide when you know what your calendar looks like! Ticket exchanges are always free.

All this at a 20% discount* off the price of single tickets.

That’s like seeing six shows for the price of five!

How it works: Once you purchase your pass, you’ll be emailed a special, unique code that you’ll use as a coupon code to book your tickets to each show when you’re ready. Don’t worry, we’ll have your code on file in case you misplace your copy!

*up to 20% depending on seat choice

Please be aware that, as of 7/2022, NC Stage is still requiring masks of all staff, audience members, and volunteers. Read about more about this decision and our complete COVID-19 policy.

See you at the theatre!!

Purchase Tickets Online

…or call us at (828) 239-0263. We’re here to help!

OUTPACE HUNGER

FEED PEOPLE AND YOUR PASSION!

What Is Outpace Hunger?

Looking for a way to make a real impact this spring and summer? Feed people while pursuing your passion through Outpace Hunger, an action-based fundraising campaign that turns a favorite activity into meals!

For decades, MANNA FoodBank has been working to outpace hunger and food insecurity all across 16 counties of Western North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. The 2022 campaign runs May 1 through September 30, and we invite you join the growing community of folks who are Outpacing Hunger alongside of us!

How It Works

Participating in Outpace Hunger is easy!

You decide your level of commitment, so every participant can create their own path to helping provide food to our community. Participants also decide how, when, and where they complete their goal, any time now through the campaign end on September 30.

Outpace Hunger participants:

(1) Register to be a part of MANNA’s Outpace Hunger community. The $20 registration fee includes a t-shirt for you and provides 80 MEALS for neighbors facing food insecurity in WNC.

(2) Choose a favorite activity (run, walk, roll, stroll, hike, bike, paddle, climb, float, skate, golf, and everything in between!) to complete individually, or as a family/group/team.

(3) Set a goal to reach. This can be an activity-related goal, a fundraising goal, or both.

(4) Invite friends and family to support your fundraising efforts through your own, personalized Outpace Hunger webpage.

Whether running a 5K, walking your neighborhood, hiking the Mountains to Sea trail, or paddling the French Broad River, Outpace Hunger participants play a vital part in ensuring our WNC neighbors have access to healthy food. 

READY TO OUTPACE HUNGER WITH US?

REGISTER NOW!

ALREADY AN OUTPACE HUNGER PARTICIPANT?

VISIT YOUR PAGE

 NEED MORE INFORMATION?

OUTPACE HUNGER HOW-TO GUIDE