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THE STAINED GLASS CEILING Female diversity thrives at Asheville pulpits

PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE Local Black leaders reflect on intergenerational politics

It’s no secret that women in the music industry have faced adversity, misogyny, fewer opportunities and less recognition than their male counterparts. But that hasn’t stopped female-identifying creatives from carving out niches on stages, playlists and other facets of the local music scene.

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OPINION

Send your letters to the editor to letters@mountainx.com.

Introducing the Development Guide

Build empathy with visits to living legacies During Black History Month (and all months), perhaps we should look both within our own city and beyond it.

The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration in Montgomery, Ala., presents a comprehensive history of the United States with a focus on the legacy of slavery and its effects upon our society [avl.mx/b7o]. Once again, my visit brought me to a deep silence of empathy, disbelief and tears — a paltry response to the actuality of what the Black race has endured over the centuries.

This museum shows us the history of our country. This is not “critical race theory.” I don’t know who coined this misleading term because there is nothing theoretical or interpretive about the racial history of the United States. It is simply factual!

The legacy’s expansive building is the site where enslaved Black people were forced to labor in bondage during the 19th century, and it now offers immersive, impactful art installations paired with critical scholarship in American history. The Legacy Museum is the outgrowth of the Equal Justice Initiative, an organization founded in 1989 that works to end mass incarceration and challenge racial and economic injustice, protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in America.

Asheville’s Peace Gardens and Hood Huggers International [avl.mx/b7p] are the perfect preparation for a visit to Montgomery. Guaranteed to “stir our souls and perceptions beyond language,” visitors and riders are given an intimate look at the effects of Jim Crow laws then and the healing process now, in our very own city.

A visit to either of these living legacies cannot help but to enlarge our perceptions and bring about the necessary empathy to change lives. It did mine!

— Linda Larsen Asheville resident since 1983

C A RT O O N B Y R AN DY M O L T O N we all live in. Tree consciousness is part of living here in Western North Carolina. It may feel uncomfortable or intrusive, but we welcome everyone into it.

Removing trees in order to see a “better” view of our wonderful mountains (and living trees in the distance) will cause stress to the plant and soil communities on a property. Many of these stresses will go unnoticed, but they are still there even if we aren’t paying attention. Removing trees on our mountain slopes disrupts soil systems that are working in many ways to keep that slope from sliding into the French Broad River. Just look to California, where trees on slopes are lost to wildfires, and they must live with landslides as a result. Our trees will lose their leaves in winter.

Why not keep them and celebrate the beautiful recurring winter view?

When you remove trees from your property, you negatively impact neigh-

boring trees that remain. Trees live in correspondence with each other, in community air and soil. With the loss of a tree, its neighbors that remain lose a partner with which to share and gain resources, causing stress.

The remaining canopies will also be exposed to wind loading that they are not used to experiencing, making them more vulnerable in the world.

Some folks will say, “Oh, I’ll just replant.” Even if the new tree is planted correctly and it survives, it will take decades and decades to replace the carbon sequestering that your mature tree once held. If you allow a mature tree to be cut in its prime, it won’t be able to pass its lessons to the younger trees around it. Replacing mature trees with a cultivated nursery product that only knows fertilizer, grass and full sun is not an in-kind replacement.

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Don’t cut healthy trees for ‘better’ mountain views Recently, a community member posted a concern on Facebook about her neighbors’ intent to remove healthy trees on their property in order to gain a mountain view. It is time for us, as arborists, to speak up again.

Trees are our No. 1 defense against a warming world and, here in Asheville, we’re on a disturbing trend toward canopy loss. Every tree counts. This is the reality of the world

2/28/22

Inserted in this week’s issue, you’ll find a special pull-out section: the Mountain Xpress Development Guide. We’re excited to offer this companion to local government land-use planning with support from the American Press Institute.

As Western North Carolina continues to grow, decisions on how to use land and manage development are more important than ever. This guide offers comprehensive details about how to keep abreast of development decisions in Asheville and Buncombe County, as well as advice on participating in municipal government that applies everywhere in WNC. Xpress is also partnering with Buncombe County to distribute the guide at county libraries and offices over the coming year. A digital version is also available online at avl.mx/b8j. We hope that by making this information clear and accessible, we will better empower residents to shape the future of the places they hold dear.

The current version of the guide was informed by feedback from over 250 readers, who participated in several online focus groups and an online survey last year. As we consider how to make improvements for its next edition, we’d love to hear from you about what you’re finding most useful and what missing info you’d like to see.

Share your thoughts with News Editor Daniel Walton at DWalton@MountainX.com or 828-251-1333 ext. 138. Thanks so much for reading. X

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OPI N I ON

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Three more things to note about trees and their resilience. Even if your trees have a fungal infection, they may be treatable by one of the many certified arborists in town. If your trees have decay or a nasty wound, have a certified arborist examine how the tree is responding to it. There are many ways trees signal how they’re coping just fine. And there is likely plenty an arborist can do to help its recovery. If a tree is “leaning,” no need to panic. It is most likely growing toward the sunlight it needs and poses no great risk of failure if it has had a healthy habitat. Living with trees rather than against them is possible and should be celebrated.

We are all drawn to live in these beautiful tree-filled mountains because we want to walk in the woods.

We want to live in the woods. Living “in the woods” comes with responsibility to preserve rather than strip our mountains. We’re at a dangerous point here in our region where development will only increase. Stripping our land of trees will only hurt the place we love and call home.

Thank you for loving this place, thank you for listening, thank you for being open to hearing us out. Before you consider removing trees in your care, please have a certified arborist out for a conversation. You can find a list of qualified, accredited arborists in WNC by searching: [avl.mx/b7i].

— Chardin Detrich and Ira Friedrichs Certified arborists Asheville

Think about better road design in Asheville A “stroad” is a street/road combination that is often a wide street with a turn lane. The speeds on these roads are high, and they are very

dangerous. Even if this isn’t enough to make you not like them, they’re ugly.

A good street has trees and a safe sidewalk, which is another thing that “stroads” don’t have. In most cities in the United States, “stroads” are how you go from place to place. But have you ever wondered what it would be like to have well-designed roads?

Many people think without “stroads,” they wouldn’t be able to move around in their cars, and transportation would take much longer.

Actually, “stroads” are making your life harder. Highways are for traveling quickly without stopping. Streets are areas with lots of businesses or attractions and should focus on pedestrians.

Streets also have lower speed limits.

According to the N.C. Department of Transportation, only 9% of speeding-related fatalities occur on interstate highways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2018, more people died on urban streets than rural roads or highways. This is because on streets, cars are combined with pedestrians, bikers and shoppers in a small space, and often there is not enough, if any, sidewalk area. If the amount of cars were reduced, and people were given proper sidewalk space, there would likely be fewer fatal car crashes.

So what can you do about “stroads” and badly designed streets? First of all, stay informed. Knowing about the problems makes you more aware of them and leads you to vote for candidates that will try to fix the problems. Also, inform others. Now that you know about these problems, think about them next time you drive down Tunnel Road.

— Harper Grade seven Francine Delany New School for Children Asheville

Editor’s note As part of this year’s Women’s Issue, Xpress reached out to several local female students in leadership positions to get their takes on feminism.

Their responses are featured throughout the paper under the headline “Women’s Empowerment.”

Also, due to changing health recommendations related to COVID-19, readers are encouraged to check with individual businesses for the latest updates concerning upcoming events.

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NEWS

The stained glass ceiling Female diversity thrives at Asheville pulpits

BY LINDA RAY

never planned on joining a church.

But she was attracted by the message at Unity, a New Thought denomination that often refers to the higher power as “mother, father, God.” “I don’t find it unusual to have a female minister,” says Oxendine, a Fletcher resident enrolled in the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.

An ordained sacred pipe carrier and elder in the community, she says Native Americans come from a matriarchal society where women carry the medicine and make decisions.

“My role is to serve. My ministry is to be of service in death, birth and marriage ceremonies and rituals.”

The Rev. Mike Reardon is associate rector at Grace Episcopal Church.

“While I believe it wholly inaccurate that God is actually male, patriarchal distortions have abounded in the church’s theology and leadership over centuries,” he tells Xpress.

“The problem is that people understandably equate the practices of the church and the realities of God.” The son of a single mother, Reardon says he respects female faith leaders who continue to face discrimination.

“I do know that it’s far more difficult to be a female leader in our church,” Reardon says. “Because of this, I tend to have deeper trust in the competency of female leaders. I know that they’ve had to overcome obstacles that their male counterparts have not, and that they have found themselves getting to leadership in spite of church tradition rather than through the support of it.”

lindarayaccess@gmail.com “Our Father, who art in heaven,” goes the start of one of Christianity’s most popular prayers. “On earth as it is in heaven,” goes another line — and just as believers often envision a male figure at the head of the celestial hierarchy, so do they usually see a man in charge of their faith community.

According to the most recent National Congregations Study, released last year by Duke University researchers, only 14% of all American congregations were led by women as of 2019.

While no such comprehensive data is available for Western North Carolina, Katherine Zubko, a professor of religious studies at UNC Asheville, says things are a bit different here. Because religious leadership reflects the society in which believers live, she says, it’s not unusual to find women leading congregations in Asheville, a place known for its liberal and progressive leanings.

For the Rev. Milly Morrow, the rector of Grace Episcopal Church in North Asheville, a female presence at the head of congregations is an invaluable counterweight to prevailing social trends. She sees the preponderance of men standing at pulpits across the country as indicative of the power of men in general — in churches and throughout every other aspect of society.

“The male-centered narrative is normative,” Morrow says. “Because of patriarchy and white supremacy in the world, it keeps male domination validated. Until that changes, it’s just the water we swim in.”

CATCHING UP

LEAD WITH LOVE: The Rev. Milly Morrow, rector of Asheville’s Grace Episcopal Church, believes dismantling gender bias is part of her work as a Christian minister. Photo courtesy of Morrow “If leaders lead with love, then gender is not important,” Morrow continues. “Gender is a social construct, and binary is an illusion created by the patriarchy. And if we are going to follow Jesus, we must work to deconstruct empires, whether in Rome, Egypt or America.”

NOTHING PERSONAL Darlene Strickland, the senior minister at Unity of the Blue Ridge in Mills River, says that God has 6

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been personified as a male figure for so long that it’s ingrained in the subconscious of many people. Even at Unity, which has traditionally attracted a diverse population, she’s seen biases.

Gender bias is a common issue in American culture, Strickland continues, “But I don’t see that it should be different at all when it comes to being a minister. It’s about helping people with their spirit if you have the gift.”

Unity congregant and board member Sharon Oxendine says she’d

Progress in bringing women to the pulpit is also happening within the Jewish community, says Rabbi Batsheva Meiri of Congregation Beth HaTephila, a Reform Judaism synagogue in Asheville. “Even though it’s been slow, it’s definitely on the rise,” Meiri says. “Especially when you consider that the first female American rabbi wasn’t ordained until 1972, and Orthodox Jews still don’t have any female rabbis.”

Her University of Wisconsin Madison graduation class of 1991 Reform Jews was the first to have a 50/50 split of men and women. “I think the entrance of women clergy is a direct reflection of women in the country,” she says. “Women are taking their places in all areas of business.”

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT CHANGE COMING

SHOWING UP: The Rev. Darlene Strickland, senior minister at Unity of the Blue Ridge in Mills River, says a younger generation is challenging gendered assumptions of religious leadership. Photo courtesy of Strickland Meiri says there has been concern that with the feminization of the rabbinate, men would be alienated, “but that worry hasn’t come to fruition.”

In her own congregation of more than 300 families, she says men and women all play key roles. To better reflect that diversity, one of her main projects is “changing the male-oriented language in our liturgy,” she says.

“I was much more aware of being a woman in a man’s world 25 or 30 years ago, when I first started doing this work,” says Meiri. “Now it’s not so surprising to people, so I don’t have to adjust. I just come as me. I don’t have to earn the pulpit every time I walk up to it.”

Meiri believes that women “bring a different flavor to the clerical role.”

Her father in Baltimore is a rabbi who she says leads from “a position of authority and clear instruction that this is the way we do things.” She says the structures and expectations of female faith leaders tends to be more democratic and less hierarchal.

“It’s a type of personality that women bring into the room,” she says. “In Baltimore, everyone rose to his presence; it was very formal and reverent. I wouldn’t ever have the expectation that people would rise in my presence.”

Meiri agrees that religious organizations reflect the gender biases found throughout society in every corner of business. “Progressive religions can’t wall off changes in society. And changes may seem slow, but they are happening in all aspects of leadership.”

While forward-thinking women are already willing to face stereotypes and biases in the name of service, the next generations may truly be the ones to shake up religious and spiritual communities, says UNCA’s Zubko. “If the students in UNCA’s religious studies classes are any indication of how the next generation views gender, they will definitely influence every area of leadership, including religion,” she says. “I think as society explores different identities generally, it will be reflected in religious leadership as well. I see it on the ground with students and their understanding of identity. It blows me away.”

Strickland from Unity likewise applauds the younger people driving changes and questioning the white supremacy and male patriarchy into which they’ve been born. “If anything [from women to ideas] has been suppressed or oppressed, it’s really just taking its rightful place” when change does come, she says.

“And women are finding their voice and their place in leadership, even at the risk of being called a bitch.”

Ministry is a calling, she says, no matter who you are. “And people of all kinds are authentically showing up, seeking to serve a purpose bigger than they are.”

Reardon, himself a millennial, echoes that optimism. “I do have hope that our generation will do a better job of listening to the work of the spirit, and that our leadership and wider church will be reflective of the diversity of gender that exists in our world,” he says. “I hope that our generation changes a lot about the church. For too long, the church has played the role of gatekeeper rather than that of liberator. I have faith in God and know that God will work in our world and through the lives of many.” X

Inspiring confidence and unity As a woman of color, Porsha Carter has long been interested in women’s rights and racial equity.

“Experiencing the effects of discrimination for both my gender and race lights a fire in me,” says Carter, a senior at School of Inquiry & Life Sciences at Asheville. “Societal stereotypes create a sense of determination in me to counter those ideas.”

Carter channels this passion through Glitter Sisters, a campus empowerment group focused on support for Black women in a white society.

Joining the organization has granted her a better understanding of herself, as well as her desire and need to advocate for individuals who struggle to do so themselves.

What does feminism mean to you?

Feminism to me means eliminating the negative bias toward women and breaking down the sexualized, derogatory demeanor surrounding us. As women, we are criticized for every aspect of our lives, so I push to advocate for women to be able to do whatever they want freely, without the fear that it doesn’t match with what society would find acceptable. Feminism also means encouraging women to take on leadership roles, standing out in a male-dominant society and being successful in what they do while properly PORSHA CARTER being compensated for their achievements.

What is a standout accomplishment that Glitter Sisters has achieved during your time with it?

Glitter Sisters has created a safe environment within our school. Having this safe environment has allowed our women of color to create as well as maintain healthy external and internal relationships. By doing this, we [help inspire] women who are confident in themselves and the work they are doing inside and outside of school. When women are confident, we tend to radiate energy that others around us feed off of, which is essential in high school where we typically grow and learn. Although high school can tend to create divides between women, Glitter Sisters has brought a diverse group of amazing women together and furthered our intellectual curiosity, allowing us to find out our passions and how we want to contribute to and fix the society we are a part of.

What is the biggest issue facing women on your campus?

Going to a predominantly white school, we have the obvious disproportional racial divide between white women and women of color. Due to generational patterns, we tend to feed into the systematic arrangement of specific groups. By doing this, we are further isolating ourselves as an already mistreated body. The women within our school are strong, smart individuals with marvelous ideas, although instead of coming together, we tend to work against each other. X

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Past, present, future

Local Black leaders reflect on intergenerational politics

BY BROOKE RANDLE

But a long gap would ensue until Asheville chose another Black representative: Ruben Dailey, a civil rights and anti-segregation attorney elected to City Council in 1969. More followed, including Wilhelmina Bratton, Asheville’s first Black woman to serve in the role of vice mayor, from 1982-91. In 2005, Terry Bellamy was elected as Asheville’s first Black mayor and served until December 2013. Keith Young was elected to Council in 2015, followed

by Sheneika Smith, who’s currently serving as vice mayor, in 2017.

Following a vacancy left by the resignation of Council member Vijay Kapoor, Black attorney Antanette Mosley was appointed to Council in fall 2020. And in that year’s election, Asheville picked Black real estate agent Sandra Kilgore as part of its first all-female City Council, with three of seven seats occupied by Black representatives.

For his part, Blakely recognizes Fletcher’s former Mayor Whiteside, who was elected in November 2017, as blazing the trail before him.

“I’m incredibly grateful for Mayor Whiteside,” he says. “Without him, I’m not even sure I’d be in the place that I am today.”

brandle@mountainx.com A moment in 2012, when Preston Blakely was a senior at Asheville High School, would prove pivotal to voters in Fletcher nine years later.

“I was turning 18 at the end of October, and Election Day was coming up, and I would finally be able to register to vote,” says Blakely.

“I remember voting for Barack Obama for his second term. It was super exciting to me that I got to vote for him — somebody looked like me — to be president of the United States.”

The civic-minded youth was inspired to run for office himself.

And today, at 27 years old, Blakely serves as the mayor of Fletcher after winning election in 2021 with 55% of the vote — making him the youngest mayor in the town’s history. Blakely is Fletcher’s second consecutive Black mayor following the retirement of Rod Whiteside.

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HISTORY IN THE MAKING: At age 27, Preston Blakely, right, serves as the mayor of Fletcher after winning election in 2021 with 55% of the vote — making him the youngest mayor in the town’s history. Blakely is Fletcher’s second consecutive Black mayor following the retirement of former Mayor Rod Whiteside, left. Photo by Holly Olson Blakely says his win in a town where just 4.1% of the population is Black represents a dream realized. But he also acknowledges the painful history that Black politicians have experienced, as well as the present-day challenges that still plague them.

“I think anytime we see Black leaders getting elected in places like that, I think that’s something to be optimistic about. I hope that trend continues, because Black folk have been historically excluded and underrepresented in these positions,” Blakely tells Xpress. “I think

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we have come really far. But obviously, we have a long way to go.”

LEGACY OF LEADERS Western North Carolina’s history of electing Black leaders stretches as far back as the post-Civil War era.

Asheville’s first Black elected official was Newton Shepard, who was born into slavery in 1841 and won a seat on the city’s Board of Aldermen, a precursor to today’s City Council, in 1882.

Part of what contributed to Blakely’s early interest in politics, he says, was his relationship with his grandmother, renowned civil rights leader Oralene Simmons. As a child, he used to compete with her in a Black history trivia game and researched other past Black leaders to gain an edge.

Although she used to live live in Mars Hill, Simmons recalls being bused to go to school in Asheville, about 20 miles away, because schools were segregated. She attended Stephens Lee High School and became active with the Asheville Student Committee on Racial Equality, which helped to integrate the public facilities of Asheville and Buncombe County. She later returned to Mars Hill and became the first Black student at Mars Hill College.

“My activism came about with having experienced injustice. I wanted to bring about a change,” Simmons says. “That’s what caused me to start thinking about civil rights, because I realized that injustice at a very early age, walking miles to a bus stop.”

NEXT GENERATION: Fletcher Mayor Preston Blakely stopped by Grace Lutheran Preschool Hendersonville to read to students. Photo courtesy of Grace Lutheran Preschool Hendersonville For Asheville City Council member Kilgore, although her family discussed politics while she was growing up — she calls her father a “very active armchair politician” and voracious news consumer — she didn’t intentionally seek out the arena. Instead, she felt motivated to get involved because of what she saw as a lack of inclusion among the Black community.

“It was more out of a void I saw within the Black community in Asheville and throughout the country,” she explains. “The presence of an opportunity and identified need resonated with me.”

Former Asheville City Council member Young says he decided to run for elected office after serving as the second vice chair for the Buncombe County Democratic Party. He remembers a discussion among party’s leaders before the 2012 election cycle as a turning point in his aspirations.

“People were being named, and they were all white, with mostly little to no service to the party or real political acumen,” says Young, who also works as a deputy clerk of Superior Court in Buncombe County. “I realized no one who looked like me — a Black man — or really understood the lived experiences and issues of the BIPOC [Black, Indigenous and people of color] community and the most vulnerable will ever serve in office as long as these people are

playing a rigged game. I was the change I needed to see.”

Young says he immediately resigned his position in the party and campaigned to become the first Black Buncombe County commissioner. He lost that election but went on to win a City Council seat in 2015.

(Al Whitesides eventually became the county board’s first Black member after being appointed to fill a vacancy in 2016; he was reelected in 2018 and continues to serve.)

He cites members from his church, Hopkins Chapel AME Zion in downtown Asheville, and his father, William Henry Young Jr., as being mentors to him during his campaign.

Young says he also received guidance and support from the late local civil rights activist Isaac Coleman.

Young is forthright about his motivation to serve. “Not seeing anyone recognize or care about the Black community in office influenced me,” he says. “My community was too busy trying to survive to worry about politics.”

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PROGRESS? Despite Blakely’s historic win in Fletcher, his campaign for mayor was marred by issues similar to those that have faced Black politicians for decades. Just days before Election Day, anonymous flyers were distributed labeling Blakely, a Fletcher resident for more than 20 years, an “Asheville Democrat” and “a liberal-progressive who wants to make Fletcher more like Asheville.” The flyers also said that Blakely supported “the urbanization of Fletcher, low-income housing and a racially based allocation of government resources,” which the candidate took as an attempt to stir up opposition based on his race.

“When I saw all those flyers, I was incredibly disheartened. Like, incredibly. I sat in my car for a little bit when I found out,” Blakely remembers. “This wasn’t just a dog whistle — it was a bullhorn.”

Racism toward Black politicians has always existed, says Young.

“There is always doubt if you will be effective or know what you’re talking about, even if you are the smartest and most knowledgeable in the room,” he says. “The stereotypes of Black men being a threat will rear its ugly head.”

Blakely says that the fear of being stereotyped came into play when, while campaigning, he found himself knocking on doors to speak directly with voters.

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WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT

A better tomorrow A senior psychology major at Mars Hill University, Sarah Boler is involved in numerous campus activities, including the volleyball team, the Bonner Scholars, First Year Mentors and Student Government Association. Through the Bonner program, Boler’s mentor, Deb Myers, introduced her to the campus’s National Organization for Women chapter, whose work instantly clicked with the student’s values.

Currently the co-president of MHU NOW, Boler spoke with Xpress about role models, racial equity and taking back the night.

What does feminism mean to you?

To me, feminism means equality for everyone and working to alleviate the inequities we see today. Feminism is for all women of all races, gender expressions and backgrounds. It advocates for the rights of all people, and without it I SARAH BOLER would not be able to be in this current position.

I owe a great deal to the women who advocated for my rights, and feminism with all its ideals is at the heart of that.

What is a standout accomplishment that MHU NOW has achieved during your time there?

In my time with NOW, we have organized a period supply drive for community members, hosted campfire sessions for students to share their experiences and planned events to educate [students] on issues such as sexual assault on college campuses. This past fall, NOW led a Take Back the Night rally on campus to let students know that sexual assault had no place at our university and they had support if they needed. We were able to coordinate with the counseling center and Title IX office as well. The support we had from our community and campus was astounding. Our campus came together with administration, students, coaches and faculty alike all in attendance. We hope to make this an annual event and to further advocate for women on campus in this capacity.

What is the biggest issue facing women on your campus?

Historically, feminism has left out women of color, so it makes me proud to be a part of a university striving toward [doing] better. Many members of our faculty have worked to create a Young Women of Color initiative that works to support women of color on campus. By having this measure in place, Mars Hill will be creating lasting changes for future students while advocating for those currently at the Hill. X

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N EWS “When the sun starts going down, I go inside. Because at the end of the day, I’m still a Black man,” Blakely says. “I think obviously, the country has a long way to go. Like I said, I’m always conscious and aware of my race and how that impacts my dayto-day life.”

LEADERS OF TOMORROW As residents continue to elect Black leaders like Blakely, Young and Kilgore, Asheville’s youth, including 15-year-old Solomon Harrison, are paying attention.

“It means a lot to me. It shows that people who look like me are able to take on that responsibility in a place of power,” says Harrison, a Black ninth grade student at Asheville High School. “It’s just inspirational.”

Harrison participates in the Racial Equity Ambassadors Program, a youth-based initiative for Asheville High School and School of Inquiry and Life Sciences at Asheville students to develop advocacy and leadership skills. The program is a collaboration among the Asheville City Schools Foundation, Asheville City Schools and The Equity Collaborative.

While Harrison says he doesn’t have any intention of running for office at this point — he’s more passionate about math — the experience has taught him how to engage with local government to help the community.

“I think it’s really important to recognize this beautiful leadership pipeline within our community,” adds Copland Rudolph, executive director of the Asheville City Schools Foundation. “We’re hoping that the REAP program, in addition to all the other great work that happens in the Asheville City High Schools, is part of creating this pipeline of strong young leaders who will guide our community into the future.”

Another youth-based ACSF program, the City of Asheville Youth Leadership Academy, offers Asheville and Buncombe sophomore and senior high school students paid internships at local government offices. Since 2007, students have been placed in opportunities such as Asheville’s Equity and Inclusion Department, Buncombe County’s Family Justice Center and communications and community development departments in both jurisdictions.

Alex Mitchiner, who directs the program, says students who work up close with local government learn that civic participation makes a tangible difference. She also believes that the program encourages students to pursue jobs in local government — Mitchiner, the workforce development programs coordinator

for the city of Asheville, is herself a product of the CAYLA program.

Part of her work is making sure students feel as if their voices are heard and that they share their perspectives on issues that impact them and their community. “Kids are always tuned in to things, and their perspectives are so unique that they make me really kind of step back and go back to the drawing board and have to think about things from a different point of view,” Mitchiner says.

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT Civil rights leader Simmons says that young people who are interested in activism, civil service or leadership should start by learning about the issues their communities face and connect with like-minded people of all ages.

“First off, they should want to bring about a change. They should seek out different campaigns and different issues that are affecting the lives of others or people who are people who are in need, whether it’s at school, in the community or government,” she says.

Meanwhile, Kilgore calls today “an excellent time for Black youth to familiarize themselves with politics,” adding that young people should take time to learn Asheville’s rich Black history. “This will set the foundation for developing their purpose, which is vital in setting their path forward,” she adds.

Young emphasizes the importance of youths connecting with current and former leaders — and not being afraid to challenge those leaders when something isn’t right.

“Learn who represents you in elected office. Learn about your representatives and read articles on local issues. Read the newspaper,” he says. “If you don’t see certain things being addressed, don’t be afraid to reach out to them. Ask them what specific policies they have led to change the things you want to see happen. If they really support your ideals, they should be able to point to their own work and not others.

Find mentors, Black mentors, close to power or who are active in politics. They are around, and I’m one of them.”

As for Blakely, he hopes that by inspiring youths today, he will help create a more equitable, efficient and effective government tomorrow.

“I think it means something when a Black child looks at me and hopefully imagines themselves as a mayor somewhere, wherever they live,” he says. “I’m more than happy to be a resource for any young person that’s interested.” X

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NEWS

Pay raise

BY LINDA RAY lindarayaccess@gmail.com It’s here, and it’s going up.

Just Economics of Western North Carolina, an Asheville-based nonprofit that advocates for more sustainable economic development, updated its hourly living wage for all Buncombe County employees to $17.70 in January. That rate reflects a 40-cent increase over the 2021 living wage for employees without employer-provided health insurance — and a $1.90 hourly raise for those with insurance.

Vicki Meath, executive director of Just Economics, says the decision to drop insurance from the living wage calculation reflects the need for higher take-home pay to cover employee housing costs. “The new formula allows a full-time worker to afford a one-bedroom apartment at fair market value, and since the ACA has made it easier for employees to get insurance, we felt it was more equitable for employers while giving workers a raise,” she explains, referring to the Affordable Care Act. “Everyone, whether you’re sweeping the floor or running the company, should be able to make a decent living and take care of their family without having to work two or three jobs.”

Over 450 local employers (including Mountain Xpress) are Living Wage Certified, and to retain that distinction, all must adjust their pay scales to the new rates by the end of the year.

COST OF LIVING Some small-business owners who rely on entry-level staff to run their operations are finding creative ways to maintain their living wage certification. Randy Talley, co-owner and CEO of Green Sage Café, instituted a 10% service fee in December, primarily to ensure that back-of-house staff like chefs, line cooks and dishwashers receive a living wage. He says he’s had a particularly tough time recruiting and retaining experienced cooks as pay has gotten more competitive.

“We pride ourselves on being a sustainable and community-oriented company, so we want to do right by our employees, too,” Talley says.

“There’s a lot of pressure to raise wages but not to raise prices. I’m just trying to thread the needle.”

To educate customers, a sign is posted at registers in all three Green Sage locations that explains the purpose of the service fee. And business

WNC reacts to new living wage rate

has stayed robust. Talley notes that he closed a fourth location at the Westgate Shopping Center in 2021 due to staffing shortages, not a lack of customers.

Talley adds that while some customers have grumbled about the new fee, most understand and appreciate what the money is for. He says some customers tell him they used to tip 20% but now tip 10% to account for the higher prices. “It works,” he says.

And a living wage commitment can boost a business’s appeal to shoppers like Daav Wheeler. The Asheville resident believes that employers who hire hard-to-place individuals and pay a living wage have a leg up on those that don’t. “It’s just a good business practice that can do wonders for a company’s public relations,” he says.

“Consumers can support it by having a conscience about where they shop and maybe even pay a little more to support it.”

For Wheeler, it’s a moral issue, and he refers to the list of Living Wage Certified employers on the Just Economics website when he shops.

“Business owners can think it places them at a competitive disadvantage [to pay a living wage] or advertise it and use it as a competitive advantage.”

Not everyone agrees. Hendersonville resident Linda Butera says people used to get second jobs to pay the bills and feed their families. “But people don’t want to do that anymore,” she says. “I think it’s crazy that they pay people at fast food places $14 or $15 an hour. Those jobs are supposed to be for kids and older people who need something to do.”

At 79, living in subsidized housing on a fixed income, Butera says that as prices rise at restaurants, she can’t go anymore. Without the recent bump in her food stamp allotment, she continues, she wouldn’t be able to eat at all because of rising prices.

STEADY HANDS Patton Avenue Pet Co. has been certified as a living-wage company for several years. Owner Jenna Wilson opened her first store in West Asheville in 2011 and now has three locations with 24 employees. She says she’s never had trouble finding good help, even over the past two pandemic years.

She feels it’s the secret of her success. “I’m not a greedy CEO,” says Wilson. “I believe that if you aren’t paying a living wage, you’re subsidiz-

ing your failing business on the backs of your employees.”

“Sixty to 70% of our employees bought houses since working with us,” she continues. “That’s what happens when you pay a living wage: People can actually afford to live.”

Regular customer Ellen Marion often drives from North Asheville to shop at the Patton Avenue Pet Co.’s downstore store and says that she’s glad to know the company pays a living wage. “I have a lot of friends who are having trouble making ends meet,” she says. Asked if she pays more at the shop because it pays a living wage, she says its prices aren’t more expensive.

Businesses that aren’t on the official Just Economics list also say they benefit from compensating their employees well. Dean Peterson, general manager of downtown Asheville retailer Tops for Shoes, says he wasn’t aware of the living wage certification but pays more than the nonprofit’s recommended rate.

Tops employees, nearly all of whom are full time and salaried, also receive health care, parking and a lunch allotment. Peterson says the Carr family, who’s owned the business since its opening in 1960, believes in taking care of each other.

Peterson has been with the company for 36 years and points to other staff with even longer tenures. Sales associate Denise Morton has worked at Tops for 38 years; when asked if it’s because of the money, she says, “Definitely. But it’s also a great place to work.”

Tops thrives without relying on low-paid, entry-level workers or sales commissions to incentivise employees, Peterson says, because the business charges suggested retail prices.

“We don’t compete with discount stores, and we offer a level of customer service you rarely see in a shoe store anymore. It’s why locals and tourists keep coming back to shop with us.”

HELP WANTED According to Nathan Ramsey, executive director of the Land of Sky Regional Council and director of the Mountain Area Workforce Development Board, most WNC businesses are paying more than or close to the living wage — not out of generosity, but out of necessity. As of January, Ramsey reports, there

LIVING WITH WAGES: Randy Talley, co-owner of Green Sage Café, works to strike a balance between employee pay and customer prices as costs of living rise. Photo by Linda Ray were over 24,000 job openings in the Asheville area.

“With a 2.8% unemployment rate in the mountains, if you’re not paying at least $14 to $16 an hour, you’re not getting anyone to work,” Ramsey explains, noting that Asheville hit an average pay of $27 an hour in November. “I even know of a Chickfil-A in Hendersonville that’s paying $19 an hour.”

But pay isn’t necessarily the main factor in the area’s workforce shortage, Ramsey continues. Many people are leaving the labor pool in the so-called “Great Resignation” due to fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Baby boomers are retiring at higher rates, more people are seeking work-from-home jobs, and a lack of sufficient day care challenges working parents.

And when employees do look for work, they’re asking for more than pay from employers. “We’re learning that the need for flexibility is a higher priority, as well as a company culture that offers professional development and opportunity for advancement,” Ramsey says.

To meet the demand for staff, Ramsey argues, employers need to expand their hiring sources and simplify job descriptions and requirements. “If the position doesn’t really require a degree, then maybe consider taking that off the job posting and rely on in-house training,” he says.

“Employers need to consider hiring people with criminal backgrounds and substance abuse issues, the elderly and people with disabilities.” X

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N EWS

BUNCOMBE BEAT

Council gives first OK to Asheville pedicab service A three-wheeled bicycle taxi is one step closer to hitting the streets of Asheville following a 4-3 vote from Asheville City Council Feb. 8 During the meeting, Council gave preliminary approval to a franchise agreement requested by Blue Ridge Rickshaw to run a pedicab service in the city. (State law requires votes at two separate meetings for local governments to approve franchise agreements.) Mayor Esther Manheimer and Council members Antanette Mosley and Sage Turner opposed the motion.

According to a staff report, the bike taxi would be allowed to operate daily from 7 a.m.-3 a.m., serving streets with speed limits of 35 mph or less in both commercial areas such as downtown, Biltmore Village and the River Arts District and residential areas such as Burton Street, Hillcrest and Lee Walker Heights. If approved, the company would start with just one pedicab, but the contract allows for as many as five. Each vehicle would be equipped with an electric assist motor to help navigate the city’s hilly terrain.

Manheimer said that she had “a great deal of reservation” about the service, citing complaints from residents about the Amazing Pubcycle, a slow-moving mobile bar that allows revelers to drink alcohol while riding. A franchise agreement for the Pubcycle was unanimously approved by Council — including by Manheimer, then vice mayor — in January 2013. Council also briefly permitted horse-drawn carriages to operate in Asheville’s downtown starting in April 2013 but banned the practice in May 2016 after pushback from animal welfare activists.

Council member Kim Roney said she supported the request because it would provide a mode of transportation for residents and visitors that did

ALL ABOARD: Blue Ridge Rickshaw is one step closer to opening a pedal bicycle taxi service in Asheville after City Council approved the first of two readings of the company’s franchise agreement request. Photo courtesy of the city of Asheville not use fossil fuels or contribute to automobile traffic.

But Manheimer said she was concerned that the pedicab service would further congest Asheville’s downtown and primarily be used by tourists without helping the broader community with its transportation needs. “We hear a lot of people say, ‘I don’t feel like I can go downtown.

Downtown is so crowded,’ and so on and so forth,” she said. “I guess I just want to pause here and think about

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whether that’s the direction we want to go in or not.’

“I’m not sure of the direction that the city is trying to take but we are heavily dependent on tourism here,” responded Blue Ridge Rickshaw owner and Asheville resident Jordan Hrivnak. “I wouldn’t be in a category of the Pubcycle necessarily — more of an A-to-B transportation service — so I would be trying not to be clogging up the roadways. I’ve definitely been stuck behind that Pubcycle, and it’s kind of a pain.”

The request’s second reading and vote by Council is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 22.

In other news The Feb. 22 meeting, Council’s next, will be held in person at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville banquet room, 87 Haywood St. Council has been meeting remotely since Aug. 20, days after Buncombe County voted to reinstate its indoor mask mandate in response to rising COVID-19 cases; that mandate is set to expire Wednesday, Feb. 16.

Members of the public wishing to speak live at the meeting will be

required to attend in person and must sign up at the door. Council will accept remote comments via email or voicemail through 9 a.m. Feb. 22, but no live call-in public comment will be permitted. The meeting will also be streamed through Asheville’s public engagement hub and on the city’s YouTube channel.

Two commenters at the Feb. 8 meeting disagreed with the city’s decision to not allow remote public comment, revisiting a theme raised when Council first returned to in-person meetings in the summer. (See “Local governments nix remote public comment,” Xpress, July 14, 2021, avl.mx/b7q.) They cited issues such as transportation, parking and work schedules that impede some community members’ ability to participate.

“I’m really concerned the city is not supporting all avenues for access,” said Alyx Perry, who works as a website and software developer in Asheville. “I’m a technology professional, and I know the city of Asheville has a fantastic IT department. There is no reason we can’t make meetings open to all participants at this point, via virtual or by phone.”

— Brooke Randle X

BUNCOMBE BEAT

WTF: Council check-ins When it comes to our local government, Xpress readers sometimes ask: “WTF?” We’re interpreting the acronym in a more family-friendly manner.

Want the Facts?

In our debut WTF feature, Xpress looks into Asheville City Council check-ins to answer some of the biggest questions about the little-known practice that was cast into the spotlight in late January after Council members were found to have discussed a controversial food distribution ordinance during so-called “check-in” meetings.

WHAT IS A CHECK-IN? A check-in is a meeting of three or fewer Council members — usually the mayor and two others — to discuss policy and ask questions of city staff. Unlike in regular meetings, members do not take votes, but they can issue informal directions to staff and seek further research on new ideas. Check-ins typically occur twice a month on the Thursday before each regularly scheduled Council meeting (which usually take place the second and fourth Tuesday of each month starting at 5 p.m.)

WHAT IS A CHECK-IN NOT? Check-ins differ from other types of meetings Council holds besides regular sessions. Work sessions, for example, are public meetings to discuss specific issues in which all seven members participate. Council will hold its next work session, focused on planning the city budget, at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22.

Council also engages in closed session meetings, which involve all seven members but exclude the public. These are called when Council must discuss certain confidential matters, such as ongoing lawsuits, economic development deals or complaints by city employees.

ARE CHECK-INS LEGAL? Yes. Like all public bodies in North Carolina, City Council is required to follow the state’s Open Meetings Law, found in Chapter 143, Article 33C of the N.C. General Statutes. The law requires that whenever a majority of a government body’s members — also called a quorum — convene and discuss issues related to their work, that the meeting must be open to the public.

Because Council consists of seven members, a quorum consists of four.

That means three-member meetings such as check-ins don’t have to be announced or open to members of the public.

Council generally holds sets of three check-ins, each with different members, so staff can share the same information without creating a majority that would require an open meeting. (Meetings composed entirely of government staff held in the normal course of work are not subject to open meetings law.)

Although meeting materials from Council check-ins aren’t automatically made available on the city’s website, they are considered public records. Members of the public can obtain the documents by submitting a public records request with the city.

WHAT DOES BUNCOMBE COUNTY DO? Buncombe County Board of Commissioners Chair Brownie Newman says that the county used to employ a similar check-in process but discontinued the practice years ago.

Commissioners replaced the check-ins with public briefing meetings, which are usually held at 3 p.m. prior to the board’s 5 p.m. regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month.

As with Council check-ins, no votes are taken at the county’s briefing meetings, and the intent is to preview issues for future board meetings.

Briefings are open to the public, and meeting materials are made available in advance.

While board members do meet in smaller groups on occasion to discuss specific issues, Newman says, he supports the use of briefings in most circumstances. “First, it makes the process more open. Second, all the

commissioners get to hear the same information at the same time. Third, it reduces the need for so many separate meetings,” he tells Xpress.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ASHEVILLE? Mayor Esther Manheimer says Council members may take up the issue of check-ins during their regular Council meeting of Feb. 22.

“In talking with other mayors, it’s clear that check-ins, work sessions and closed meetings, where legally required, are all utilized in other cities,” Manheimer says. “But, one thing somewhat unique to Asheville is the use of Council subcommittees, which meet publicly, to review items coming to Council. This is not a format used in most cities and provides greater transparency and opportunity for the public to hear and weigh in on matters before they reach the full Council.”

— Brooke Randle X

2022

Kids Issues Publish 3/9 & 3/16

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FEA T U RE S

Q&A with Olivia Gibson Metz, member of the South Asheville Cemetery Association When Olivia Gibson Metz graduated from N.C. Central University in 1972, she didn’t intend to return to Asheville. However, her mother, Louise Gibson, was struggling with health issues and her father, George Gibson, and her siblings needed help with caretaking. So Metz came back to the Kenilworth neighborhood where she grew up.

She’s remained there ever since, building a life for herself and starting a family with her husband, Richard Metz. Though she’s thought about moving to another city many times, she’s happy with the decisions she’s made.

“I think back on that and wonder what would have been, but I don’t think I’ve missed anything,” Metz says. “I’m where I’m supposed to be.

I’m taken care of here and looked after by God. People should do what they can in their own community.

Together, we can climb mountains and make things better.”

Central to Metz’s positive attitude is her commitment to service as a lifelong member of St. John “A” Baptist Church and her involvement with the South Asheville Cemetery Association, which maintains the burial ground adjacent to the church.

Metz’s father inspired her to aid in the cemetery’s preservation, and the two were instrumental in having both church and cemetery added to the National Register of Historic Places in November. The recognition is mostly honorific, but increases the chances of receiving certain kinds of preservation or restoration grants and, more importantly, serves as an acknowledgement of both institutions’ importance to local and national history.

Xpress spoke with Metz about growing up in Asheville, why preserving historic sites is important and how she’s seen the city change in unforeseen ways.

This interview has been condensed for length and edited for clarity.

What are some of your favorite memories from growing up in Asheville in the 1950s and ’60s?

Kenilworth Park used to be a wooded area with the middle cleaned out where kids would go. We called it “The Flat,” and we’d play ball and games there. Across the street was St. Mark [A.M.E.] Church, and it had a cemented little pool where you couldn’t do much but sit and 16

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FAMILY LEGACY: Olivia Gibson Metz speaks at the May 2021 Historic Resources Commission ceremony honoring her father, George Gibson, for his contributions to the South Asheville Cemetery. Photo by Ellen Pearson put your feet in the water. … It was a good life. We’d walk to a stream behind our house and play with tadpoles. I wish my grandkids had that freedom to just get out and play.

What are some notable changes you’ve seen in Asheville during your lifetime?

Closing up Black schools ruined neighborhoods and communities.

And urban renewal desecrated property that people did have. It might not have been a lot, but to be moved out with nothing was terrible.

There’s nothing to look back at or be connected to. And now, the people not wanting [critical race theory] taught in schools is taking it further down the road to destruction. It’s a Pandora’s box of confusion. The community has fallen apart, but it’s more in the governmental arena — county, city and up. Decisions have been made that haven’t been good for the city.

On the flip side, Ken Michalove [1989-93] and Terry Bellamy [200513] are some of the best mayors we’ve had. But political parties have tied our hands. It’s a constant battle. Life isn’t Democrats and Republicans —

MOUNTAINX.COM

it’s humankind. We should support, take care and provide for everyone, not just the “haves.” We’ve lost sight of that.

How did you start helping out at the cemetery?

When I was learning to drive, I was trusted to drive my dad from the house to the church and back home. There were days when my heart would melt — I’d look back and see him weeding, whacking away, pulling bushes and I’d go back and help him. That was before I went to college, and it was still going on when I came back and I got pulled into it more. Working there has been a lifelong side job for me.

What was involved in getting the cemetery and church added to the National Register of Historic Places?

There was an application process, but with COVID, the process got slowed down. It took about three or four years total, but we hired a consultant to do the paperwork. Clay Griffith [owner of Asheville-based ACME Preservation Services] did extensive background on the church, down to the different wood and trim-

ming in the church that date it. And he collected a lot of pictures and interviews. It was a process!

What’s the significance of the National Register of Historic Places recognition?

It’s important for the preservation of the church and cemetery. Nobody knew [the cemetery] was there for years. It was just left there until my dad started cleaning it. Mr. [George] Taylor [who passed away in 2016] helped, too, but it was overgrown.

It’s consecrated, holy ground, so it’s important to maintain. People who had nothing are buried there — slaves, children, people who died in the Depression. They had nowhere else to be buried. Now we’re using it as a public platform to speak to our community and others to encourage people to clean and maintain older cemeteries. There’s so much history there.

How can we better care for historic properties?

Public perception needs to change.

Anytime property is transferred, especially in the mountains, there should be requirement to tell if there’s burial sites there. Both buyer and seller should be aware. It’s an obligation that shouldn’t be taken lightly. … For every cemetery — especially abandoned ones, but also any new ones — there should be a law to plan for the future and put something in place for its ongoing maintenance. You don’t want to lose the history. Families find families through cemeteries, and that connectivity keeps the world going.

We need to be more educated and more connected.

How else do you spend your time these days?

I’m working part time now for the pharmacy at Givens Estates [a retirement community], encouraging and supporting people. I have a wonderful time there with the residents and employees. It’s an over-the-counter shop and is good for people there because they don’t drive anymore and it’s hard for some to get on the bus and go shopping. It gives them a sense of responsibility. People just need a hug some days — me, too.

And it’s great hearing the stories.

There are some well-traveled, interesting people there. I love it!

— Edwin Arnaudin X

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ASHEVILLE ARCHIVES

FEA TU RE S

by Thomas Calder | tcalder@mountainx.com

‘A restless hatred of dullness’ Mabel Wolfe Wheaton’s contributions to American literature On Sept. 30, 1958, The Asheville Citizen notified readers that local resident Mabel Wolfe Wheaton had died, succumbing to complications from diabetes the previous day.

Wheaton, the older sister of writer Thomas Wolfe, had outlived her famous brother by more than two decades, following his untimely and premature death on Sept. 15, 1938.

Since his passing, the obituary noted, Wheaton had become “the greatest living authority on the man who was becoming a literary giant.”

At the time of her own death, fans of Wolfe’s 1929 debut novel — the highly autobiographical Look Homeward, Angel — were certainly familiar with parts of Wheaton’s personality and personal history, thanks to her inspiration for the character of Helen Gant, who possessed “a restless hatred of dullness, respectability.”

Like Wheaton, the character of Helen joined the vaudeville circuit with a fellow friend in the early 1900s, singing at moving-picture theaters throughout the country. In his novel, Wolfe describes Helen’s missives home about her travels, writing: “Her letters beat like great pulses; they were filled with the excitement of new cities, presentiments of abundant life. In every town they met ‘lovely people’ — everywhere, in fact, good wives and mothers, and nice young men, were attracted hospitably to these two decent, happy, exciting girls.

There was a vast decency, an enormous clean vitality about Helen that subjugated good people and defeated bad ones.”

According to her obituary, Wheaton continued to travel in her later years, though on the lecture circuit, offering insights to literary audiences about her brother. She also “recorded tirelessly for the Library of Congress her recollections of the Wolfe family,” the paper stated.

Shortly before her death, Wheaton had begun work on her own book, Thomas Wolfe and His Family, co-written by author Willam LeGette Blythe. Published posthumously in 1961, it offers a unique look at Asheville near the start of the 20th century.

In one passage, Wheaton describes traveling amid the Flood of 1916. At the time, she and her husband, Ralph Wheaton, had just celebrated their

GREAT AIM: In Mabel Wolfe Wheaton’s obituary, The Asheville Citizen notes her role in preserving the Old Kentucky Home. “A bustling boarding home, it is now the Thomas Wolfe Memorial,” the paper wrote on Sept. 30, 1958. “Preserving the home later became Mrs. Wheaton’s great aim, and to the idea of establishing it as a memorial she gave her tireless labor, boundless energy and many prized possessions.” Photo courtesy of Buncombe County Special Collections, Pack Memorial Library wedding and were trying to make it to Raleigh. They initially stopped in Chimney Rock, 25 mile east of Asheville. Wheaton notes: “That sounds like a short distance for a day’s travel. But we had got away from Asheville late and we stopped well before dark. For one thing, in those days motorists were always fearful that their carbide headlights wouldn’t function; there was little night traveling. Besides, the highways then, compared with the present concrete and asphalt ribbons that cross and crisscross North Carolina and the nation in every direction, were little more than sand-clay trails few and far between.”

As the rain fell, the couple continued eastward but ultimately stopped in Forest City due to the weather.

“The rain poured, the skies seemed veritably to open, and the water came

down in torrents,” the book reads.

“For two or three days we had to stay holed up in [a] leaking hotel.”

Eventually, the newlyweds forged ahead, crossing a bridge “we could not see the floor of,” Wheaton relays in the book. “It was a foolish thing to do, we agree now, but then we were young and the caution of advancing years had not settled upon us.”

In another of the book’s passages, Wheaton describes the arrival of the circus to Asheville around 1903.

“My Asheville friends whose memories do not go back that far may find it hard to believe, but this particular carnival was set up just below the towering Vance monument, between it and the old City Market that was just below Papa’s building. One of the carnival tents was right in front of Papa’s place, which was where the present Jackson Building, Asheville’s tallest structure, now sits.”

Inspired by the circus acts, the Asheville youth quickly re-created the magic. “Well, that carnival had hardly pulled up stakes and departed our town when the children in our Woodfin Street neighborhood determined to put on a carnival of their own,” the book reads. “It was decided to stage it in our back yard.”

The impromptu gathering, continues Wheaton, was decided upon without parental knowledge or consent.

“Certainly had [Mama] known what acts were being planned, she would have put her foot down,” Wheaton states. “And though Mama’s foot was small, she could put it down heavily and effectively.”

Editor’s note: Peculiarities of spelling and punctuation are preserved from the original documents. Special thanks to the Thomas Wolfe Memorial for providing excerpts from Thomas Wolfe and His Family, as well as fielding additional research questions. X

MOUNTAINX.COM

FEB. 16-22, 2022

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR FEBRUARY 16-24, 2022 For a full list of community calendar guidelines, please visit mountainx.com/calendar. For questions about free listings, call 828-251-1333, opt. 4. For questions about paid calendar listings, please call 828-251-1333, opt. 1.

Community Blood Drive In partnership with The Blood Connection. Each donor will receive a $20 Visa gift card.

MO (2/21), 3pm, Archetype Brewing, 265 Haywood Rd

Walter B. Stephen Pottery: Cameo to Crystalline Features art pottery and functional vessels from each stage of Stephen’s career, from his origins discovering the medium alongside his mother in Tennessee to his multi-decade production just outside of Asheville.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Battle of the Badge Blood Drive The Asheville Fire Department, Asheville Police Department, Buncombe County Emergency Medical Service, Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina Highway Patrol will build camaraderie while encouraging blood donations in honor of their respective agencies.

WE (2/23), 8am-5pm, First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St

A Hand in Studio Craft: Harvey K. Littleton as Peer and Pioneer Littleton's collection from the early days of the Studio Glass Movement and the height of the American mid-century Studio Pottery Movement - as they connected with other artists, and developed their own work. Daily 11am-6pm, til 9pm Thursday. Closed Tuesdays.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Online Events = Shaded WELLNESS Yoga and the 12 Steps of Recovery (Y12SR) Addresses addiction as a mental, physical and spiritual disease.

WE (2/16, 23), 8:30am, Asheville Yoga Center, 211 S Liberty St Pub Run Rain or shine, all ages and experience levels welcome.

WE (2/16, 23), 6:15pm, Archetype Brewing, 265 Haywood Rd Montford Tai Chi Hosted by local acupuncturist Tyler White. All ages, every Thursday.

TH (2/17, 24), 9am, Free, Montford Recreation Center, 34 Pearson Dr Introduction to Tai Chi Taught by Roger Byrd TH (2/17, 24), 10:30am, Free, Asheville Community Yoga Center, 8 Brookdale Rd Queer & Trans Yoga Class For everyone who identifies outside the lines and hasn’t felt comfortable in a traditional yoga space.

TH (2/17, 24), 6pm, avl.mx/b1t NAMI Anxiety Support Group The first and third Thursdays of every month. Contact namiwnc. org or (828)505-7353 for more information.

TH (2/17), 7pm UNCA COVID-19 Testing In the Blue Ridge Room. No appointment required. Friday 1-8pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm.

FR (2/18), SA (2/19), SU (2/20), Highsmith Student Union, 1 University Heights LGBTQ Sweat Your Prayers A safe space for the LGBTQ community to move their bodies with intention, love, in solidarity. All are welcome, sliding scale.

SA (2/19), 9:30am, Haw Creek Commons, 315 Old Haw Creek Rd Mountain True Winter Tree ID & Ecology Hike A moderate to strenuous 4-mile hike with biologist Josh Kelly.

SA (2/19), 12pm, Hot Springs 30th Annual Frostbite Races The oldest footrace in Henderson County. Virtual and in-person 10K, 5K and 1 mile fun run.

SU (2/20), 1:45pm, Lelia Patterson Center, 1111 Howard Gap Rd, Fletcher

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ART February 2022 Exhibit, New Members Show “Time For Renewal” Featuring works by three new gallery members: Kathy Goodson, Margie Kluska, and Johnnie Stanfield. Daily 11am-6pm.

Free, Asheville Gallery of Art, 82 Patton Ave WNC Fibers/Handweavers Guild Exhibition Processes represented include spinning, shibori, batik, silkscreen, weaving, natural dyeing, needle felting, knitting, and more. Open daily.

10am, Folk Art Center, MP 382, Blue Ridge Parkway

ᎢᏛᏍᎦ ᏫᏥᏤᎢ ᎠᎵᏰᎵᏒ Weaving Across Time Showcases the works of nine Eastern Band Cherokee basket makers - touching on the dynamic evolution of lineage, sustainability, and cultural expression.

Monday-Friday.

11am, Center for Craft, 67 Broadway A Living Language: Cherokee Syllabary and Contemporary Art Highlights the use of the written Cherokee language. Daily 11am-6pm, til 9pm Thursday. Closed Tuesdays.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Ruminations on Memory On view in conjunction with A Living Language: Cherokee Syllabary and Contemporary Art. Daily 11am-6pm, til 9pm Thursday. Closed Tuesdays.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Useful and Beautiful Silvercraft by William Waldo Dodge Silver tableware created

FEB. 16-22, 2022

Jackson County Branch, NC NAACP Topic is Censoring School Books. All are welcome. Email jcnaacp54ab@gmail.com to receive instructions to join online.

SA (2/19), 10am

in the Arts and Crafts tradition, from a trained architect who moved to Asheville in 1924. Daily 11am-6pm, til 9pm Thursday. Closed Tuesdays.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

The Wyeths: Three Generations Provides a comprehensive survey of works by N.C. Wyeth, one of America’s finest illustrators; his son, Andrew, an important realist painter; his eldest daughter, Henriette, a realist painter; and Andrew’s son Jamie, a popular portraitist. Daily 11am-6pm, til 9pm Thursday. Closed Tuesdays Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Gabrielle Loturco PopUp Art Show Two-night only show from local multimedia artist.

TU (2/15), WE (2/16), 7pm, Little Jumbo, 241 Broadway Showcase of Excellence & Reception Regional high school juried show reception with music by Clover Pickers. On exhibit through March 12.

SA (2/19), 10:30am, Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave, Tryon

ART/CRAFT STROLLS & FAIRS Mini Market Pop Up A variety of local vendors highlighting some of the best in arts, crafts, and artisanal products from Asheville and surrounding areas.

SU (2/20), 11:30am, Highland Brewing Downtown Taproom, 56 Patton Ave

SPOKEN & WRITTEN WORD Malaprop's Notorious HBC (History Book Club) Participants will discuss News of a Kidnapping by Gabriel García Márquez.

TH (2/17), 7pm, Registration required, avl.mx/9s9

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SEASONAL RESET: Asheville Gallery of Art’s February show features works from new gallery members Kathy Goodson, Margie Kluska and Johnnie Stanfield. The show, Time for Renewal, runs daily, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., through Feb. 28. Photo courtesy of Asheville Gallery of Art Noah Van Sciver presents The Complete Works of Fante Bukowski in conversation w/Doug Martsch Martsch and Van Sciver discuss Van Sciver's graphic novel. Sponsored

by Malaprop's.

TH (2/17), 7pm, Registration required, avl.mx/b6d Winter of Poetry: Poetry in Collaboration Winter Artist-in-Residence David Barrartt's sixth session: Cross-disciplinary Collaborations.

For Zoom link and location, email the CCC 24 hours prior to event: ccc.avl.nc@gmail.com.

SA (2/19), 10:45am, Center for Connection + Collaboration Of Equis and Essence Featuring regional poets Jeff Davis and Michael Hettichm with music

by Brandon Quinn. For Zoom link and location, email the CCC 24 hours prior to event: ccc.avl. nc@gmail.com.

SA (2/19), 7pm, Center for Connection + Collaboratio Writers at Home Reading series featuring work from UNCA’s Great Smokies Writing Program and The Great Smokies Review. Sponsored by Malaprop's.

SU (2/20), 3pm, Registration required, avl.mx/b86

THEATER & DANCE Jeeves Intervenes The company’s first produced show since March 2020, this British comedy follows 1920s high society playboy Bertie Wooster and his devoted valet Jeeves.

WE (2/16, 23), TH (2/17, 24), FR (2/18), SA (2/19) 7:30pm, SU (2/20) 2pm, NC Stage Co, 15 Stage Ln PHILADANCO! The Philadelphia Dance Company A decades-long legacy of breaking barriers and building bridges across cultural divides. Pre-show

discussions at 7pm in Henry LaBrun Studio.

TH (2/17), 8pm, Diana Wortham Theatre, 18 Biltmore Ave The Shorthand Job New comedy explores love, marriage, and communication in the digital age. By George Awad and Jamie Knox, directed by Katie Jones.

Friday and Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 4pm.

FR (2/18), SA (2/19), SU (2/20), The Magnetic Theatre, 375 Depot St The Peking Acrobats For the last 32 years, this troupe of world-class artists has redefined perceptions of Chinese acrobatics.

TH (2/24), 7pm, Diana Wortham Theatre, 18 Biltmore Ave

FILM National Paddling Film Festival Featuring all types of paddle sports. Funds are contributed to support river access and habitat conservation throughout the country.

SA (2/19), 4pm, $10, The Wedge at Foundation, 5 Foundy St To Sir Sidney, with Love Celebrating actor Sidney Poitier. Cry, the Beloved Country 2pm. In the Heat of the Night 4pm.

To Sir, with Love 7pm.

SU (2/20), 2pm, $9-22, Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave, Tryon

CLASSES, MEETINGS & WORKSHOPS Opportunity Appalachia: NC Launch Webinar The initiative will bring technical assistance and investment resources to economically impactful development projects across WNC. Learn details prior to submitting project applications, which are due Apr. 15.

WE (2/16), 1pm, avl.mx/b7w

Cooking with Purpose: Soul Food Dinner Demo In honor of Black History Month, Asheville-born and raised Chef Clarence Robinson will share some of his favorite soul food dinner recipes with a heart healthy twist.

Sponsored by AARP. WE (2/16), 4pm, avl.mx/b7x Men's Cancer Support Group Share about cancer, our lives with cancer and our lives outside of cancer.

RSVP to Will at (412)9130272 or acwein123@ gmail.com.

WE (2/16), 6pm, Free, Woodfin YMCA, 40 N. Merrimon Ave, Ste 101 How I Use Technology to Create Music A lecture and peformance with Jamie Laval.

TH (2/17), 4:30pm, $15, Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Ave, Tryon WNCHA History Hour: The Brevard Rosenwald School Betty J. Reed discusses her research into the Brevard Rosenwald School and other segregated schools in WNC. TH (2/17), 6pm, avl.mx/b6y Pie Baking Contest Bake any pie of your choice. Open to the public and judged by City of Asheville’s Parks and Rec staff. For more information call (828)3502062, FR (2/18), Senior Opportunity Center, 36 Grove St Art Journaling with Mixed Media Explore the many ways to create to a handmade art journal. With local artist Kim Beller.

SA (2/19), 10am, ARTPLAY, 372 Depot St, Ste 44

VITA Tax Preparation Assistance Moderate and low-income individuals and families in WNC can have income tax returns prepared for free

by UNCA volunteers as part of the IRS VITA (Voluntary Income Tax Assistance) program.

SA (2/19), 10am, Free, Pack Memorial Library, 67 Haywood St Critter Check Up Children may bring their favorite stuffed animal for a check up with a veternarian.

SA (2/19), 11am, Free-$15, WNC Nature Center, 75 Gashes Creek Rd Dog Adoption Event In collaboration with Mountain Pet Rescue.

SA (2/19), 12pm, Archetype Brewing, 265 Haywood Rd Black History: The Woman's Voice Speakers will share their insight and experience on black history as they knew it. For more information, call (828)274-7739.

SA (2/19), 1pm, Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd Winter Workshop: Crafting Kudzu Baskets Master basket maker Nancy Basket will show participants how to weave free-form kudzu baskets while sharing Cherokee and American Indian stories. Materials supplied.

SA (2/19), 1pm, $35-45, Black Mountain Public Library, 105 N Dougherty St, Black Mountain Wild Walk: A Behind the Scenes Tour Guided walk.

SU (2/20), 1:30pm, WNC Nature Center, 75 Gashes Creek Rd Environmental Injustice: Race, Class & Climate Change with William J. Barber III The presentation will focus on the many social justice implications of climate change and will be followed by a conversation and Q&A. SU (2/20), 4pm, avl.mx/b85 Holistic Crop Management Series: A Holistic Approach to Soil Health Learn and apply whole farm management methods, basics of soil science and soil monitoring to increase your farm’s soil health and productivity.

TU (2/22), 6pm, avl.mx/b7t Paint Your Pet Individual step-by-step instruction.

TU (2/22), 6pm, 12 Bones Brewery, 2350 Hendersonville Rd, Arden

Introduction to Medicare - Understanding the Puzzle The class will explain how Medicare works, the enrollment process, how to avoid penalties, and ways to save money. To register, visit www.coabc. org or call the Council on Aging at (828)277-8288.

TH (2/24), 2pm WNCHA History Hour – The Buncombe County Remembrance Project Discusses the personal and community trauma inflicted on individuals of color after the Civil War, the Equal Justice Initiative’s research related to lynchings, and the three lynchings “of record” that occurred in Buncombe County.

TH (2/24), 6:30pm, avl.mx/b7u Annual Haywood County Master Gardener Plant Sale Hard-to-find native plants are available.

Order forms are at the Cooperative Extension Office by calling the office at (828)56-3575; at haywood.ces.ncsu.edu/; or by sending an email to mgarticles@charter.net.

Orders due by Mar. 18.

Haywood County Cooperative Extension Office, 589 Raccoon Rd, Waynesville

LOCAL MARKETS ASAP Winter Farmers Market SA (2/19), 10am, A-B Tech Conference Center, 340 Victoria Rd River Arts District Winter Market Local produce, cheese, breads, meats and more.

WE (2/16, 23), 3pm, Pleb Urban Winery, 289 Lyman St

FESTIVALS Asheville Celtic Festival Celebrating the Celtic Spirit of the Seven Nations in WNC. With live bands, battles, clasroom sessions, border collie demos, highland cattle, and more.

SA (2/19), WNC Agricultural Center, 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd

SPIRITUALITY Baha’i Third Wednesday Devotional Monthly gathering via Zoom.

WE (2/16), 7pm, Free, avl.mx/b6x Online Baha’i Sunday Devotional All are welcome at this informal weekly gathering via Zoom.

SU (2/20), 10am, avl.mx/a4t Night of Worship Featuring songs from Hillsong, Chris Tomlin, Rend Collective, and more.

TH (2/24), 7pm, Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School, 51 Wilburn Place

MOUNTAINX.COM

FEB. 16-22, 2022

21

WELLNESS

Period poverty

Local groups tackle menstrual hygiene needs

BY JESSICA WAKEMAN jwakeman@mountainx.com There is no typical day in a school nurse’s office; it can often be a blur of Band-Aids, ice packs and heating pads. But every day at T.C. Roberson High School, some students pop in to get menstrual hygiene products, says school nurse Taylor Arace.

“Every day, we probably give out [products to] at least 10 kids,” Arace says, noting that the student population at T.C. Roberson numbers about 1,500. “We go through a lot of supplies” Some students need a tampon or pad because they forgot their own at home. For others, their period arrived unexpectedly or heavier than usual.

But other students rely on nurses like Arace for menstrual hygiene products because of period poverty: A box of tampons or pads is cost-prohibitive for them to buy themselves.

Period poverty is the inability to afford sufficient disposable menstrual hygiene products, including pads, tampons, panty liners and sanitary wipes. Without access to these products, a person may bunch up toilet paper or paper towels in their underwear instead and risk staining their clothes. Arace notes that students who’ve bled through their clothes leave before the school day has ended “all the time.”

And those who use sanitary products for longer than recommended risk potentially lethal toxic shock syndrome (from tampons) or urinary tract infection, Arace says.

Period poverty may not be visible to those it does not effect. But a survey of low-income women found that nearly two-thirds were unable to buy the menstrual hygiene products they needed at some point in the previous

22

FEB. 16-22, 2022

HYGIENE HUB: A station installed by the Asheville Period Project outside the Kenilworth Presbyterian Church offers grab-and-go supplies of pads, tampons and other period products. Photo by Katie Adams year, according to a 2019 study in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Over 20% women surveyed said this problem was a monthly occurrence.

Among teenage U.S. students, nearly a quarter struggle to access menstrual hygiene products, according to State of The Period 2021, a report by the nonprofit PERIOD. and Thinx, which makes washable period-absorbing underwear.

People who work on the issue in Western North Carolina agree that period poverty is more widespread than it may seem due to the cultural stigmas of both poverty and menstruation. And financial issues wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic have made

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menstrual hygiene products even more inaccessible for many.

ASHEVILLE’S PERIOD ACTIVISTS Asheville has two volunteer groups working to address local unmet menstrual hygiene needs.

The Asheville Period Project formed at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church in 2014 among members of the women’s ministry. The group began with collecting items like baby products, soap and shampoo to donate to those in need.

But Katie Adams, the project’s founder, says recipients consistently asked for more menstrual products. She calls period poverty “a conversation that people weren’t having in our community”; the group began primarily focusing on menstrual hygiene in 2015.

APP is run by volunteers, some of whom are affiliated with Kenilworth Presbyterian Church and some who are not. (The church serves as a donation and storage hub for products.) Adams says a core group of 10 volunteers distributes boxes of menstrual hygiene products to nonprofits around Buncombe County, including Homeward Bound, the WNC AIDS Project, Helpmate, and the mutual aid organization AVL Survival Program.

To date, the project has distributed approximately 50,000 items.

The group’s newest effort is a “hygiene hub” installed outside the

Kenilworth church in April 2020.

Painted bright red and built similar to a Tiny Free Library, the hub’s shelves are stocked with boxes of pads and tampons. It also is filled with paper bags called period packs, intended for homeless people, containing a mix of pads and tampons for heavy and light flows, condoms and sanitary wipes.

Jazmin Whitmore placed a donation receptacle for period products in her store, More to Love Consignment, in 2019. She contacted APP because she wanted to support the group and was told it needed more donation locations.

As a child, Whitmore lived in homeless shelters; as a low-income young adult, she sometimes had to choose between buying food or menstrual products, she says.

“When it comes to the issue of homelessness and extreme poverty, a lot of attention gets put on food and shelter,” she says. “That’s obviously very vital.

But a lot of times, dignity and selflove gets overlooked. Working with the Period Project, we’re not just helping cover the most basic needs — we’re also restoring some dignity.” (Another donation receptacle is located at the Asheville Raven & Crone shop.)

WIDESPREAD In 2017, the late Barbara Morgan took up the cause of period poverty, explains her husband, Tom. She

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT formed Project Dignity of WNC after learning that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps, and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children can’t be used to purchase menstrual hygiene products.

After researching the issue, Morgan says, his wife put her skills as a former FedEx salesperson to use by talking “to anybody over three feet tall“ about period poverty.

Project Dignity started by distributing pads and tampons to Henderson County Schools and then added Buncombe County Schools, Morgan says. Its volunteers now reach 148 distribution points at schools across 10 WNC counties, as well as 59 social service agencies such as food pantries, shelters and Boys & Girls Clubs.

Morgan says the group has steadily increased its services, partially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During its first year, Project Dignity distributed 130,000 pads and tampons; in its most recent fiscal year, ending April 2021, the group handed out 550,000 pads and tampons.

“It’s scary, in a sense, because we now have over 30,000 women and girls on a monthly basis who have come to depend on us,” Morgan says.

Asheville Buncombe Christian Community Ministry’s Transformation Village, Buncombe County’s only shelter for single women and mothers, began distributing donated menstrual products when it opened March 2021, says director Carolyn Cronin. Project Dignity supplies products to ABCCM, as well as to Salvation Army locations in Buncombe, Henderson and Rutherford counties.

IT’S PERSONAL: Jazmin Whitmore, who says she experienced period poverty as a young adult, collects donations for the Asheville Period Project at her store, More to Love Consignment. Photo courtesy of Jazmin Whitmore

‘WAITING ON THE NEXT PAYCHECK’ Buncombe County Schools has supplies of menstrual hygiene products available for all students at the Family Resource Center at Enka Middle School, spokesperson Stacia Harris tells Xpress.

At the beginning of the pandemic, the Family Resource Center expanded from a “crisis closet” in the school system’s central office to occupy two classrooms at Enka Middle, Harris says. It offers groceries, school supplies, diapers and other toiletries along with period products. (More information is available at avl.mx/b7s.)

In addition to the Family Resource Center, menstrual hygiene products can be had for free at every elementary, middle and high school in Buncombe County.

At T.C. Roberson High School, where Arace is a nurse, donated menstrual hygiene products can be picked up at the front desk, the counseling center, the social worker’s office and the school’s designated Freshman Academy area.

“You’ll see the same kids [getting donations], so you know who’s having trouble getting supplies at home,” Arace explains. “By the time they get to high school, some of these kids, if they need anything for themselves, they better get a job for it. So a lot of them are waiting on the next paycheck before they can buy any products.”

The importance of inclusion Cara Bridgman, a senior at Warren Wilson College shares her thoughts on “pink suit” jobs and the importance of inclusion, as well as her work on the college’s wellness crew, which resources and assists fellow students in communication, mental health, physical well-being and self-care.

What does feminism mean to you?

Feminism means a broad range of CARA BRIDGMAN things to me. It represents an equitable representation of voices that are heard and validated. It means that all people respect the bodily autonomy of each other to create a healthy consent culture. It means that as a whole, our society values the emotional and interpersonal skills of social workers, nurses, teachers and other classic “pink suit” jobs. Feminism means that we value and prioritize feelings, emotions and mental health of all genders just as we do with physical well-being.

What is a standout accomplishment the wellness crew has achieved during your time at Warren Wilson?

Successful events hosted by the wellness crew are the the standout accomplishments in my book. We’ve done events like self-care nights, gratitude card tabling, condom fairy, healing space for survivors. These are just a few!

It makes me happy to know that the crew is meeting student needs.

What is the biggest issue facing women at your campus?

There needs to be more leadership and transparent communication that uplifts, validates and hears the voices of BIPOC women, trans women and women who have disabilities. This has to be done while also building support for these women to have the care to help prevent burnout and feeling that they’re not a valid part of our community. X

(SOME) HELP IS HERE At least one local politician is trying to make menstrual products more accessible. In September, Democratic Sens. Julie Mayfield of Buncombe County and Natalie Murdock of Durham County introduced Senate Bill 698 to provide free menstrual products in North Carolina schools that request them.

SB 698 sought to provide $250,000 to local school administrators to purchase menstrual hygiene products, as well as $350,000 for the nonprofit Diaper Bank of North Carolina, from the general fund of the state Department of Public Instruction.

The bill failed to advance from the Senate’s Rules and Operations committee. But $250,000 in grant funding for period products at schools did make it into the state budget in November.

The grant is “a bit of a pilot project to see what the demand is for the funds and see how many school systems apply for it,” Mayfield says. “Then if there’s a high demand and the money runs out, then we then have a basis to come back and ask for recurring funding for that program.” X MOUNTAINX.COM

FEB. 16-22, 2022

23

HAPPINESS IS HEALTHY! WHAT'S YOUR PLEASURE?

ARTS & CULTURE

Sing it, sister

Women artists find creative solutions to music industry challenges

❤

ROCK ON: Local female musicians discuss the opportunities and challenges they face within the music industry. Photo

by Cindy Kunst

BY ALLI MARSHALL allimarshall@bellsouth.net

57 Broadway Street

Downtown Asheville

723 Haywood Rd West Asheville

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FEB. 16-22, 2022

When loading into a music venue, keyboardist and vocalist Mary Frances (aka “Mama Funk”), has often been mistaken for the person selling merchandise or the girlfriend of a band member. In fact, the Asheville-based musician has long been an integral part of musical acts Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band, Eymarel and Electro Lust.

But she doesn’t take the oversight personally. “I see it as a challenge,” she says. “I transform into my [stage] outfit and rock out, and it’s a whole different energy after the show. … I find creative strength in it.”

It’s no secret that women in the music industry have faced adversity, misogyny, fewer opportunities and less recognition than their male counterparts. But that hasn’t stopped

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female-identifying creatives from carving out niches on stages, playlists and within all facets of the music scene.

OPPORTUNITY COST In 2018, the LEAF Festival took on the challenge issued by the national campaign 2020 Women on Boards, which sought to increase the percentage of women serving on U.S. company boards to 20% by 2020.

Two years ahead of schedule, LEAF featured more than 20% women-led acts, including its headliners and the entire Friday main stage schedule.

Unfortunately, since 2020, COVID’s impact on festivals has made it difficult to track gender equity when it comes to performer lineups. But unequal representation has been an issue for decades, says local blues musician Peggy Ratusz.

“When you look at a festival lineup and you see there’s 65 acts and nine of them are women, that [gets you] riled,” she says.

A 2017 survey conducted by Pitchfork attests to Ratusz’s observation.

According to the online music publication, of the 996 acts that took the stage at large music events that year, only 14% were female-based, with an additional 12% representing groups with male and female (or nonbinary) members. A subsequent survey found that the number of female acts increased by 5 percentage points in 2018.

A common refrain for this disparity, notes Ratusz, is that women don’t vie for festival slots and gigs. “That’s bullshit,” she contests. “They do vie.”

And Ratusz knows: Her career as a performer spans decades, and she’s also worked as a talent booker. In the latter role, she hoped to impact the gen-

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT der gap by booking women-led acts but received pushback from her employer.

Festival flyers, media coverage, gig opportunities — all can be discouraging metrics by which to measure the progress of women’s roles in the music industry. But it’s not all bad news, local musicians point out.

“When I was starting out as a senior in high school, one theater teacher took notice of me and asked me to be the solo musician for a string of performances in an ensemble play … at a theater in uptown Charlotte,” remembers folk-pop artist Carly Taich. “I created a live soundtrack for the entire show with just my guitar and voice. I even wrote a song for the last scene of the play, which the entire cast sang with me. It was an emotional and encouraging experience.”

Today, Taich is an established voice in the Asheville music scene. Her 2020 EP It Tends to Glow was featured by NPR and American Songwriter and, among other awards, she won the 2018 LEAF Singer-Songwriter Competition. She’s just released the single “Fly” (available on major streaming platforms), which she describes as a “song about the risk of letting yourself fall in love.”

GET IT TIGHT, KEEP IT TIGHT Taich, who has been performing now for a dozen years, points to an early opportunity as a key element to her continued momentum. At 14, she received a full scholarship to a music industry summer program for teens. “Surrounded by musicians and learning from industry professionals in Los Angeles, a whole world opened up for me that I didn’t know existed,” she remembers. “After that, I dove headfirst into songwriting, started taking voice lessons and never looked back.”

But, despite early encouragement and support, Taich (as well as Frances and Ratusz) has never had a female mentor in the industry.

Taich says she takes inspiration from artists such as Sia, who “completely stopped showing her face during public performances, which was a big risk in an industry that so heavily focuses on image.”

Other local musicians, such as vocalist and guitarist Leeda “Lyric” Jones, have had the privilege of female-identifying mentors, and Jones includes Asheville-based luminaries Lizz Wright, Kat Williams and the late Ruby Mayfield among them. Early in Jones’ career, Wright heard her band busking, attended one of the group’s shows and invited Jones to open for her on a Northeast tour. “She showed me a lot as far as not being afraid to voice my opinion to the band,” Jones says. “How to get everything tight and to keep it tight.”

Uplifting one another

EARLY EXPOSURE: Carly Taich has been in the music industry for over a decade. Early exposure, she notes, was key to her continued success.

Photo by Cindy Kunst Meanwhile, Ratusz’s response to the male-dominated field was “to be the CEO of me and make things happen for myself.” Among other initiatives, she curated a Christmas variety show at Isis Music Hall & Kitchen 743 for nearly a decade. “It was an opportunity to shine a light on men and women [performers] and, as a person of age, to remain viable,” she says. Her current project, Asheville Sessions, is in collaboration with guitarist Jonathan Pearlman and invites local vocalists to perform weekly at Isis.

Zanaya Salaam is a senior at Western Carolina University who says she’s worked on issues around diversity and inclusion since her arrival to campus in 2018. Here, she speaks with Xpress about overcoming obstacles, organizing conferences and speaking up.

What does feminism mean to you?

Feminism to me means being proud to be a woman! It means not using my gender as an excuse to not take on every opportunity I want. It’s no secret that women, and even more so women ZANAYA SALAAM of color, are at a disadvantage in the corporate world in this country — I am double majoring in business management and business marketing. I don’t let that stop me in going for what I want professionally or personally.

What is a standout accomplishment you have achieved during your time at WCU as it relates to empowering female students?

For one of the student organizations I represent, the Latinx Appreciation Student Organization, we created and hosted the Southeastern Latinx Student Leadership Conference. It was the first of its kind in our region, a conference that aims to empower and educate Latinx students and their allies for success during and after their collegiate career. We planned for this conference each year since 2018, and each year the student committee was almost all or fully made up of female students!

What is the biggest issue facing women on campus?

I think the biggest issue facing women on campus is the fear to speak up. I don’t speak for all women on campus when I say this, but I know many of my female peers do not feel powerful enough to speak up on certain issues or concerns they may have. It’s important that we uplift one another to give all women the push and empowerment they need to feel heard. Everyone’s voice matters! X

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MENTOR: “She showed me a lot as far as not being afraid to voice my opinion to the band,” Leeda “Lyric” Jones says of fellow local musician Lizz Wright. “How to get everything tight and to keep it tight.” Photo by Jamie Blankenship MOUNTAINX.COM

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A R TS & CU LTU R E

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PROS AND CONS No matter the ingenuity of the musician in question, there are still major pain points when it comes to being a female-identified person in the music business. “Being sexualized is No. 1,” Taich says. “Though I don’t know what it’s like to be a male in the industry, I think women get pigeonholed more easily and have the added job of shattering expectations.”

At the same time, confidence in one’s sexuality is another component for some within the scene. “I want to be seen as a musician first,” says Frances, who has explored her sexuality in onstage performances. “But I think [music and sexuality] can work together.”

Collaborating with male musicians also brings unique opportunities and challenges. Frances’ career evolved with her husband, the drummer Lee Allen, with whom she formed the duo Eymarel while she was finishing her degree in music therapy at Appalachian State University. She and Allen later joined the Booty Band together.

“We give each other strength,” she says.

But even touring with a supportive group of guys can be lonely as the sole woman in the band. “So I’ve made girlfriends all over the country to grab a coffee with,” Frances says.

Meanwhile, Jones’ father, Dave Matthews — also a native Ashevillean and longtime member of the local music scene — has been part of her band since 2009. (Matthews played Asheville’s first Bele Chere festival in 1979; he and

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DREAM IT: While on tour in Seattle, Mary Frances dreamed about a keytar. “So we went to Guitar Center, I bought the keytar, I played it that night, and I haven’t looked back,” she says. “I feel like that really helps me own this ability to feel powerful but also be musical and speak to the crowd.” Photo by Cindy Kunst

REAL TALK: Historically, all-female acts have been underrepresented at large music festivals. Though awareness of the issue has led to a more concerted effort at greater inclusivity, the issue remains. “When you look at a festival lineup and you see there’s 65 acts and nine of them are women, that [gets you] riled,” says local musician Peggy Ratusz. Photo

by Cindy Kunst Jones performed the final iteration of Bele Chere, in 2013, together.)

As far as having his daughter’s back in venues and on the road, “He wasn’t going to let certain things happen,” Jones says.

THE WORLD NEEDS YOUR ART But Jones has still dealt with plenty of difficulty. “One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a Black woman was being taken seriously and not being taken advantage of,” she says.

Jones first played in a band while a student at Western Carolina University and began to make a name for herself in Asheville as a young artist. “I was raised to know better than to settle,” she continues. “I had to command respect for myself and my band.”

Taich also admits she’s had to work hard to become someone who is decisive and doesn’t just hand her art over to those who exude more confidence.

“I think it’s very common for women to [feel] like they’re being walked all over,” she says. “That their opinions don’t matter, or that they have to work extra hard to be heard or taken seriously.”

Taich offers this advice to up-and-coming women performers: “The world needs your art and your voice.”

She adds, “Keep going and don’t be afraid to take charge of your career.

Don’t fall prey to Cinderella syndrome, waiting for a key holder in the industry to one day discover you and sweep you off your feet.” X

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ARTS & C U L T U R E

FOOD

Dough re mi

Dancing in the kitchen with female bakers and pastry chefs

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN earnaudin@mountainx.com Whether running their own business, hard at work in their kitchen or — more often than not — both, numerous female bakers and pastry chefs keep the Asheville area supplied with delicious baked goods throughout the year.

To help celebrate their accomplishments, Xpress spoke with Camille Cogswell of Walnut Family Bakery; Susannah Gebhart of OWL Bakery; Andrea Hasselbacher of Meadowsweet Creamery; and Cherie Pereyra of Annie’s Bakery to learn about what motivates them on the job and the lessons they’ve learned from their craft.

Who was your greatest female influence as a child, and how did they shape who you’ve become?

Cogswell: My mom, Margaret Couch Cogswell, who is an artist here in Asheville. Growing up being able to have home-cooked meals on the table every night and being in the kitchen with her helped grow my love of food and art. I appreciate her honesty, goofiness, creativity and organization. I notice reflections of her in myself all the time as I get older, which makes me happy because she’s been a great role model.

Gebhart: My loving mama was the salient female force in my childhood experience. Every day when I was a little person, she would set aside an hour or so of “quiet time,” in which I would stay in my room alone, left to my own devices. I’d say this was one of the most formative aspects of learning how to be quiet, to listen and be with myself without constant external stimulation, distraction or

field guide

Asheville to

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RISE AND SHINE: Local bakers and pastry chefs, clockwise from top left, Camille Cogswell, Susannah Gebhart, Andrea Hasselbacher and Cherie Pereyra discuss their beginnings, inspirations and insights about their chosen careers.

Cogswell photo by Olivia Caceres; Gebhart photo by Nicole McConville; Hasselbacher photo by Michael Clem; Pereyra photo by Erica Burrell entertainment. I think often how that has helped me be present in both my craft and in the world, and to find direction from within.

Hasselbacher: Julia Child was the person who helped me fall in love with cooking. I loved how she made food her passion in life, and that helped give me permission in my 20s to leave a “proper career” in health care to work in a restaurant. Her jubilation in the kitchen helped me see how much baking was important for me, and how it was important for me to do work that made me joyful.

Pereyra: My mom, Cindy Halliger, was and still is my greatest female influence. She taught and encouraged me to embrace and follow my curiosity and passion with abandon.

Do you feel a responsibility to pass on similar inspiration to the next generation of potential bakers/ pastry chefs?

Cogswell: Yes! It’s always super important to acknowledge and encourage the interests of the next

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generation. Staying true to yourself, speaking up for what you believe in, admitting your mistakes, following your passion and being honest about the times when your path hasn’t been easy or glamorous make all the difference. That’s all easy to say and it sounds quite idealistic, but it’s hard to actually stick with. And it’s also important to not put too much pressure on yourself. I think these things can be a good model for inspiring others to see potential in themselves.

Gebhart: It’s a little strange to me to consider “responsibility” and “inspiration” as related. I don’t suppose I believe I have a duty to ensure, or even have any control over, whether my actions or what I make is inspiring to other people. I feel moreover a responsibility to be dedicated and to “show up” as much as I can, whether that is to the craft of baking or to “running” a business or to being a teacher. I fall short all the time, but as many times as I could have given up or become bitter

— which can happen easily in the hospitality industry — I’ve always come back to the table and just try to do so with an open and loving heart and to give as much as I possibly can.

I think what inspires people is so individual and ultimately comes from within, perhaps by asking the question, “How can I best serve what I am making or doing through my decisions, my curiosity, my experience and knowledge, and my skill?” If that includes looking to someone else and how they do it or learning directly from them, then that is an important part of anyone’s personal development/deepening, and that I celebrate and encourage.

Hasselbacher: Yes, baking is difficult but is full of freedom and joy if time and effort are put in. There are long hours on your feet and often difficult kitchen environments to work in — which is where you learn so much — and you have to have a little fire going in you to keep your chin up. I never had a formal background in baking, so I want others to know that you can start from anywhere. Telling these stories of our unconventional paths to become bakers can inspire people that would have been afraid to start out in the first place.

Pereyra: I do. I have two kids and I encourage them to follow and satisfy their curiosity and wonder. I don’t bake and cook for work only.

I’m always in my kitchen at home making something yummy. They see me in my element, my happy place, creating. They are my biggest fans and critics. Sharing my passion with them and exploring theirs as we enjoy what I’ve made is creating ripples that I hope carry through to their friends and future.

What is the greatest challenge within your industry that an outsider would find surprising?

Cogswell: There are many challenges in the food service industry, but one that I think is extremely important to acknowledge is that there is often a huge gap in communication and transparency between employers and employees. Owners are often cagey about how the business end works: pay structure, food cost, profit and loss. But sharing knowledge and being honest with employees will empower them to care more and work smarter, as

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WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT

Turning classroom inspiration into action Hailing from Rockingham, Trinity Brown is in her final semester at Mars Hill University and finishing her studies in political science.

She’s also working full time and applying for grad schools in hopes of getting her master’s in public administration. Helping drive those goals is her role as co-president of the campus’s National Organization for Women chapter, a group that came to her attention in 2019 while taking a women and gender studies course.

“One of my classmates had created a presentation sharing information about NOW and how it had numerous chapters all across the U.S. but not at MHU,” she says. “Needless to say, we were inspired. This set in motion the support my classmate needed to create the MHU NOW chapter.”

What does feminism mean to you?

Feminism to me is true equality for all TRINITY BROWN — socially, economically and politically. It acknowledges that intersectionality is a necessary tool in understanding that everyone has their own experience in discrimination and oppression. In order to understand feminism, you have to look deeper into gender, age, race, class, sexual orientation and physical disability because being a woman is not a catchall category.

The primary goal of feminism is to challenge the systematic inequalities women face on a daily basis in order to gain true equality, whether it be bodily autonomy and access to health care or in structuring international systems governing economic development and human security. Our struggle is both very personal and very global.

What is a standout accomplishment that MHU NOW has achieved during your time there?

One of NOW’s biggest accomplishments was our Take Back the Night rally that occurred last year. Take Back the Night is a worldwide movement to stand against sexual violence. This was the first one to ever occur on Mars Hill’s campus, and we had several of our peers show up and support us by chalking words of encouragement on the sidewalk, sign-making and marching. It was a wonderful and amazing experience that I’m so thankful to have been a part of.

What is the biggest issue facing women on your campus?

One issue for young women while on campus is objectification — many fail to see the line between what is a compliment and what is harassment, as well as issues surrounding consent in relationships. This is actually what motivated us to do a Take Back the Night rally. We wanted to engage in conversation with all students about being respectful and understanding something that may seem harmless but is, in fact, intimidating to women.

We also wanted the campus community to understand the difference between consent and coercion, and that any instances of sexual violence will not be tolerated. We know this supports the mission of MHU in providing a safe environment on campus but we wanted to have the discussion student-centered to have more impact. We look forward to continuing the conversations on our campus as we are organizing a round table discussion with Heather Hawn, associate professor of political science, about Roe v. Wade, reproductive freedom and the legal challenges at the Supreme Court. X

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ARTS & CU L T U R E well as improve the health of the industry as a whole in the future as the employees become the next generation of restaurant managers and business owners.

Gebhart: Communication. As much as one can develop themselves independently as a baker or a chef, being in the “industry” is about a team working together to deliver something that takes a lot of coordination on the back end but feels seamless for the recipient. All of that hinges on communication.

The communication patterns common in kitchens can be effective and unhealthy at the same time, but I think there’s a sea change happening that is trending toward healthier communication styles and workplace practices. All of that really comes down to individuals making a commitment to communicating thoughtfully and adapting quickly to the demands of the moment.

Hasselbacher: Current regulations within the dairy industry limit many of the things we can do. Many people trying to use local and sustainable ingredients run into roadblocks that limit their freedom — it’s extremely frustrating and can stop people in their tracks when trying to change how our food system works.

Large food industries dictate how smaller food businesses can operate, not always with the health of people and the environment in mind. There needs to be a change to this.

Pereyra: The incredible variety of people that work in this industry.

I’ve worked with plenty of lifers like me, but I’ve also encountered so many different people on so many different walks of life over the years.

I could fill a book with snippets of life stories I’ve heard. Learning how to work with the variety can be as challenging as it is rewarding. The schedule can be brutal as well, but I don’t think that is much of a secret!

What is the best advice you’d give a young person just starting out in the bakery/food pastry business?

Cogswell: Seek out working for people who are hard on you and keep their standards high but who take the time to teach you, encourage questions and give you the tools to achieve those goals together. You’ll encounter a lot of bosses who are not like this, and no one is perfect!

But those who are dismissive, disrespectful or unwilling to be there for their team are not worth sticking with. Learning what qualities make an ineffective leader can be equally as informative as learning how to be a great leader.

Gebhart: I’m going to make a bold claim: Half of baking is listening, and the other half is danc-

ing. As such, it takes a tremendous amount of presence and diligence.

To expound, the listening requires paying attention — to ingredients, process, the story aromas have to tell, the way combining materials and working them impacts their behavior. This is the intuitive and the scientific. Listening includes trial and experimentation, messing up and learning what not to do, and expanding knowledge through research. It means being able to squeeze some flour and “read” it.

The other half, dancing, is really about physical skill. You have to know your ingredients, but you also have to know your body, how to use gravity effectively and develop fine motor skills. This is the precision.

It means moving with efficiency, working cleanly, knowing how to modulate pressure to fully extend dough in one pass of the pin or knit it in just a few motions into a taught package. It requires spatial and physical awareness, and it makes the difference.

Often, baking is romanticized, seems magical and even whimsical, as though a fairy might wave a wand and some beautiful confection appears from the ether. But I think it bears saying that to really get the most out of being a baker is that it takes a lot of time, a heap of devotion (especially when stuff doesn’t work!) and a great deal of physical training. Bakers have a long line of silent hands behind them, and every time we work a bit of flour with a fat or a liquid, we are not alone. We are not the first or the last to do what we do, but if we listen closely enough and if we work with clarity, then there may be something we learn about ourselves or life in the process. If that is what drives you, then I would wager you’ll be successful.

Hasselbacher: It isn’t important whether or not you’ve been formally trained in pastry, but your passion for the art of food. You can find the mentorship you need in unexpected places. There are so many talented pastry chefs, and it can be daunting to “compare and despair,” but we can all help build one another up.

People will always need good food and community. There can never be enough of that!

Pereyra: Create, create, create!

Study and learn the fundamentals but take your ideas and make them.

Share them! Never stop listening or learning. Everybody has something to teach you, whether it’s what to do or what not to do. And never underestimate the power of a hint of ground cardamom and ground clove to elevate your sweet bread or dessert. X

Feminism as a way to elevate all Rebecca Hart, a senior at Western Carolina University and the student body president speaks to the leadership roles that women hold at WCU, the goals of inclusivity and the threats women face on campuses across the nation.

What does feminism mean to you?

Feminism is inclusivity. It’s equality. It’s proper representation. It’s women speaking for themselves and being heard. It’s little children growing up seeing the women in their lives represented in the books they read and movies they watch. It’s trans women not having to defend their womanhood. True feminism hurts no one because it elevates us all.

What is a standout accomplishment that student government has achieved during your time as it relates to empowering female students?

The Student Government Association has not passed or pushed for any specific policies concerning solely women. However, I think REBECCA HART it is the barriers we continue to break just by being in the room. The Student Government Association is in its 98th session. However, I am only the seventh woman president. And according to our records, our administration might be the first time we’ve had a woman president and vice president at the same time.

This year, we had an all-women leadership. Our chancellor, Dr. Kelli R. Brown, is our first woman chancellor. The faculty senate was led by Laura Wright, the staff senate by Deidre Hopkins, and the student government by myself.

What is the biggest issue facing women on campus?

The most prevalent crime that occurs on college campuses is sexual assault. According to a 2007 Campus Sexual Assault survey, 1-in-5 women will be sexually assaulted during their time at college compared to 1-in-20 men. I think this speaks a lot about how women are perceived and valued in our society. Everyone has something to contribute, but continually, women are spoken over, passed over for promotions or are held to outdated expectations. X

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FOOD ROUNDUP

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3 veteran chefs love brunch as much as you do Rare is the diner who doesn’t relish indulging in an easy, breezy weekend brunch. Bloody marys and mimosas, decadent French toast, crispy hash browns, eggs Benedict with creamy hollandaise, big fat cheesy omelets — who doesn’t love brunch?

According to local chef Terri Terrell, many in the industry — that’s who. Generally speaking, cooking brunch is considered boring, pedestrian and predictable. But for Terrell, along with fellow chefs Beth Kellerhals and Michele Gentille, the meal remains a source of pleasure. On Jan. 1, the three female chefs hosted their inaugural pop-up, Ladies Who Brunch. The sold-out success inspired the trio to make a series of it, staging recurring events on Saturdays at Smoky Park Supper Club and Sundays at Bottle Riot.

All three women have long and successful careers in the industry.

Terrell, originally from Clarksdale, Miss., has a background in catering, owning restaurants, running Asheville’s HomeGrown restaurant and serving as culinary director for the Chow Chow Festival. She is currently launching her own catering and consulting business, The Clarksdale.

Gentille attended culinary school in France and has worked as a pastry chef, private chef and caterer in Europe, California, New York, Alaska and for several seasons at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station in Antarctica, before relocating to Asheville. Currently, she is a commercial food stylist, collaborates on pop-ups, works as a private chef and baker and writes her own blog called “Harriett’s Tomato.”

Kellerhals grew up in the Midwest, went to the French Pastry School in Chicago and spent time baking and cooking in Los Angeles. More recently she was pastry chef for French Broad Chocolates. Last year, she began devoting her time solely to her independent venture Good Gravy Bakes, supplying local restaurants and coffee shops with goods, while also selling pies, scones, cinnamon rolls and her popular Buttah Biscuit directly to her fans through Instagram and Saturday mornings at the ASAP City Market.

When the three stirred their skills and influences together to create Ladies Who Brunch, they reached out to chef Michelle Bailey and Kristie Quinn, co-owners of Smoky

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THREE FOR ALL: Chefs Terri Terrell, left, Beth Kellerhals, center, and Michele Gentille recently launched Ladies Who Brunch, a weekend pop-up taking place at Smoky Park Supper Club and Bottle Riot. Photo courtesy of Gentille Park Supper Club, as well as Lauri Nichols, co-owner of Bottle Riot.

“We were blessed that Michelle, Kristi and Lauri were into opening their doors and encouraging us to take flight and see what happens,” Terrell says. She notes that Bottle Riot has recently added spirits to its bar, good news for those who think brunch without a bloody mary is just, well, breakfast.

Among the menu items that veer off the tried and true (and a wee bit tired) brunch path are Beth’s Mini Buttah Biscuits with chocolate gravy; miso caramel sticky buns with spiced candied pecans; scratch-made English muffin breakfast sandwich

with collards, fried egg, Ashe County cheddar and Mississippi Delta tomato gravy; crawfish chowder with deep fried saltines; a vegan tartine with OWL boule, smashed avocado, lemon pickled radish and herb drizzle; hot catfish tamales; and rabbit ‘n’ hash with fried potatoes and hot pepper relish.

Ladies Who Brunch will be at Smoky Park Supper Club, 350 Riverside Drive, Saturday, Feb. 19, and Saturday, Feb. 26, serving from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Reservations are encouraged at 828350-0315. The pop-up will be at Bottle Riot, 37 Paynes Way, Sunday, Feb. 20, and Sunday, Feb. 27, with service beginning at 11:30 a.m. until food

35th Grove Park Inn Arts & Crafts Shows runs out. Both restaurants now require memberships (guests can pay the nominal fee and sign up on-site), and Bottle Riot requires proof of vaccination.

For future dates, follow Ladies Who Brunch on Instagram at avl.mx/b6r.

Oaxapunk On Friday, Feb. 18, former El Gallo chef and food justice activist Luis Martinez debuts Oaxapunk at The Odditorium, 1045 Haywood Road.

He’ll be cooking tacos, molotes, tostadas and pozole from 5 p.m. until items sell out. For more information, follow Martinez on Instagram at avl.mx/b7a.

Flown the coop El Gallo — Spanish for rooster — has closed at 48 College St., but John Tessler and Mike Reppert, who purchased the restaurant in October, say stay tuned. The partners, who also own Blackbird restaurant on Biltmore Avenue and plan to open Shiloh & Gaines in South Asheville later this year, are working on a new concept for the downtown space.

“When we purchased El Gallo, we had every intention of keeping it afloat,” says Tessler. “We made as many changes as we could, but we just didn’t get the increased business we had hoped for, and unfortunately we don’t have the resources to continue that particular concept.”

Tessler adds that he and Reppert are very excited about the future plans, though they are not ready to reveal the details. “We can say that it is something that is desperately needed in Asheville, especially downtown. Our goal is to be fully open by mid-March.”

Imperial, the Mexican-inspired cocktail bar located directly above the former El Gallo, remains open.

Tessler says beverage director Drew Hendrickson has created new cock-

tails and a new food menu will soon be released.

Imperial is at 48 College St. For more information, visit avl.mx/xmasjba.

Course correction Cleophus Hethington, executive chef of Benne on Eagle, has for years been immersed in a deep dive researching and cooking the foodways of the African diaspora. In observance of Black History Month, he is presenting two dinners of four courses through some of that history and culture. On Sunday, Feb. 20, the menu will focus on African and Latin American dishes, including carapulcra from Peru and egusi stew with rabbit agnolotti from Nigeria.

On Sunday, Feb. 27, popular African American and Caribbean dishes will be served, with highlights that include fufu de platano from Cuba and catfish espuma with tomato gravy. There will be local artwork, entertainers and guest speakers at both dinners, which are $70 per person. Seating begins at 5:30 p.m. for each event.

Benne is at 35 Eagle St. Choose your date and reserve at avl.mx/wordcap8.

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Living local has its challenges, so Bargello and District 42 — the restaurants on the first floor of Hotel Arras at the convergence of Broadway and Biltmore Avenue — have introduced Here’s to Locals: three-course prix fixe meals served Wednesday-Sunday, 5-10 p.m. Just show your proof of address and for $35 per person, enjoy one of two starters, one of three entrees and one of two dessert selections. Two bottles of wine from the Arras cellar have been paired for an additional fee.

To see the menu and make reservations, visit avl.mx/b6u.

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OPEN SUNDAYS 511 Smokey Park Hwy, Ste 102, Candler, NC 28715 828.747.7333 avanteavl@gmail.com

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FEB. 16-22, 2022

CRAFT WORK: The Omni Grove Park Inn has hosted the annual National Arts and Crafts Conference and Shows since 1988. “The conference is the highlight of the year for anyone interested in this style,” says Bruce Johnson, director of the National Arts and Crafts Conference and Shows. Photo courtesy of NACS For over a century, Asheville has had a strong association with the Arts and Crafts movement, an international trend in decorative and fine arts that swept the United States around 1900 after originating in the British Isles.

“The Asheville area’s long, rich heritage of mountain crafts was perfectly positioned to transition into the arts and crafts movement,” says Bruce Johnson, director of the National Arts and Crafts Conference and Shows, held annually at The Omni Grove Park Inn. “By 1920, several noted firms had blossomed here, including Biltmore Industries, Brown’s Pottery, the Artisan’s Shop, The Spinning Wheel and Pisgah Forest Pottery, making items by hand for sale to tourists and area residents.”

After going virtual in 2021, the conference returns to The Omni Grove Park Inn Friday-Sunday, Feb. 18-20.

The 35th annual conference will feature morning and evening seminars by leading authorities, daily demonstrations by artisans, walking tours, small group discussions and the country’s largest Arts and Crafts antiques show, which is open to the public each afternoon. The shows will run 1-6 p.m. Friday, noon-6 p.m.

Saturday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

“The afternoon shows are the highlight of the weekend,” Johnson says.

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They will feature 100 national artisans and antiques dealers, all of whom are exhibiting works made during or influenced by the Arts and Crafts style. On display will be new and vintage Arts and Crafts style furniture, art pottery, tiles, textiles, lighting, jewelry, rugs and artwork.

Several local artisans will participate, including furniture maker Brian Brace, woodcarver Fran Moore, jeweler Amy Brandenburg and interior designer Karen Hovde.

Admission is $5, and tickets are good for all three days. Outdoor parking at The Omni Grove Park Inn is free that weekend. Garage parking is free for the first three hours. Masks are required.

For more information, go to avl.mx/b73.

in the historic Citizen Times building on O. Henry Avenue. “I wanted to reference a physical space where people can gather because the pandemic has put so much on hold — concerts, performances, festivals,” Herrington says.

The first episode, which was posted this month, features an interview with Asheville guitarist and singer Mike Martinez. Herrington says an exact schedule for future releases is still uncertain as Citizen Vinyl seeks sponsorships.

“The Mezzanine” can be found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, as well as at avl.mx/b74.

Vinyl goes digital

Hood Huggers International, which leads tours highlighting Asheville’s Black history, will offer free tours to African Americans who live in Buncombe County through the end of the month.

The driving tours cover the Burton Street community, downtown and East End/Valley Street, exploring such sites as the YMI Cultural Center, the Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, The Block, the Burton Street Community Peace Garden, Triangle Park and Pack Square, former site of slave auctions.

“The history of Black folks and Black resilience in Asheville is so

Citizen Vinyl has launched “The Mezzanine,” a podcast series featuring interviews with artists and musicians. Guests will include people from Asheville as well as national acts passing through while on tour.

“The theme of the show is examining how history shows up in the present,” says Cass Herrington, the show’s producer. “We unpack artists’ backstories in a way that I think listeners will make connections to their own lives.”

The podcast is named after the second-floor lofts at Citizen Vinyl, housed

Take a tour

rich, but often not fully understood, known or realized by the local community,” says Catherine Siravantha, communications specialist for Hood Huggers. “We’d like to make this deeper educational and cultural experience more accessible to the Black folks living in the area to help cultivate a deeper understanding of the history of these neighborhoods, encouraging deeper conversations about the state of Black Asheville.”

Tours can be scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

For more information or to book a tour, visit avl.mx/b79.

Learning opportunity Retired educator Betty J. Reed will discuss her research into the the Brevard Rosenwald School and other segregated schools in Western North Carolina during a Zoom presentation on Thursday, Feb. 17, at 6 p.m. The Black History Month event is sponsored by the Western North Carolina Historical Association.

The Brevard Rosenwald School served Black students in Transylvania County from about 1923-66. Reed says it represents “a microcosm of Black education in southern Appalachia.”

Reed, who lives in Transylvania County, began researching Rosenwald schools as a surveyor for the State Archives of North Carolina in 2002. She is the author of three books: The Brevard Rosenwald School: Black Education and Community Building in a Southern Appalachian Town, 1920-1966; School Segregation in Western North Carolina; and Soldiers in Petticoats.

Tickets are $5 for WNCHA members and $10 for others. Donations are encouraged. For more information, go to avl.mx/b75.

Affair to remember Art Affair, the annual fundraiser for OpenDoors of Asheville, takes place Saturday, March 5, at The Venue, 21 N. Market St. Doors open at 6 p.m. for those with VIP tickets and 7 p.m. for general admission.

The theme of this year’s event is “We Rise” and encompasses a VIP UNCDuke basketball game watch party, live and mobile auctions that include artwork and travel experiences, along with food, live music and entertainment featuring OpenDoors students.

OpenDoors is a nonprofit that works with parents and schools to increase access to mentoring, tutoring, school events, sports and extracurricular activities, summer camp and more for underserved students.

General admission tickets are $125 and VIP tickets are $175. To buy tickets, visit avl.mx/b76.

Artists-in-residence The Buncombe County Public Libraries systems has received an American Rescue Plan Act grant to launch the Flowstate Community Arts Initiative.

Throughout the year, the library will host six local artists or craftspeople, each for a term of one month, in Flowstate Community Arts Space at the East Asheville Public Library. In addition to concentrating on their own creative projects, artists will hold office hours to answer questions about their work. Each artist will also provide a program or take-home activity for community members during their residency.

Each artist will receive a small stipend as well as materials used for programs or activities. Artists were chosen in consultation with Noir Collective AVL at the YMI Cultural Center in Asheville.

The first Flowstate artist in residence is printmaker Heather Tolbert, co-owner of From the Ashes Cultural Arts & Counseling. Her term started on Feb. 1 and will run through Friday, Feb. 25.

East Asheville Public Library is at 3 Avon Road. For more information, visit avl.mx/b77.

— Justin McGuire X

MOVIE REVIEWS Local reviewers’ critiques of new films include: KIMI: Director Steven Soderbergh’s third film in 14 months provides a marvelous update of such techno-paranoia thrillers as Blow Up and The Conversation and gives star Zoë Kravitz one of her best roles thus far. Grade: B-plus — Edwin Arnaudin DEATH ON THE NILE: Director/ star Kenneth Branagh’s latest turn as renowned detective Hercule Poirot has its moments, but dares viewers to care about the suspects aboard an Egyptian river boat — or about Poirot himself. Grade: C — Edwin Arnaudin

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Your donated car can open the doors to independence, increased income, and higher education for a hardworking member of our community. Vehicles of all types and conditions are welcomed and appreciated!

The donation is tax-deductible. The process is simple.

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Keeping Asheville Weird Since 2010 workingwheelswnc.org | 828-633-6888 VOTED WNC #1 KAVA BAR

Terrible-tasting drinks at barely tolerable prices.

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Find full reviews and local film info at ashevillemovies.com patreon.com/ashevillemovies

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The featured icon indicates which venues or artists require proof of vaccination for upcoming shows. Due to the evolving nature of the matter, the list may not be comprehensive.

Before heading out, please check with all venues for complete information on any vaccine or negative COVID-19 requirements.

For questions about free listings, call 828-251-1333, opt. 4.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16 12 BONES BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm 185 KING STREET Trivia Night, 7pm ARCHETYPE TAP LOUNGE + VENUE Locals Night, 4pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY •Beauty Parlor Comedy: Mark Chalifouxk 7pm •Aquanet Goth Partyk 9pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Rev. Peyton's Big Damn Band w/Sicard Hollow (blues, progressive bluegrass), 8pm BREWSKIES Free Pool All Day, All Night, 1pm CATAWBA BREWING SOUTH SLOPE General Themed Trivia Night w/Bingeable, 7pm HI-WIRE BREWING BIG TOP Free Weekly Trivia Night, 7pm HI-WIRE BREWING RAD BEER GARDEN Game Night, 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Well Crafted Wednesdays w/Matt Smith (singer-songwriter), 6pm ICONIC KITCHEN & DRINKS Marc Keller (acoustic), 6pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. French Broad Valley Mountain Music Jam, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night Wednesdays w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 7pm RENDEZVOUS Albi (vintage jazz), 6pm SILVERADOS Open Mic, 7pm SWEETEN CREEK BREWING Witty Wednesday Trivia, 6:30pm THE BARRELHOUSE Open Mic hosted by Kid Billy, 8pm THE GREY EAGLE Country Westerns w/ MJ Lenderman & Axxa/ Abraxask 8pm TRISKELION BREWING CO. TriskaTrivia, 7pm TURGUA BREWING CO Trivia Night, 6pm

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UPCOUNTRY BREWING COMPANY Trivia Night w/Not Rocket Science, 7pm

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17 131 MAIN Aaron LaFalce (soul, rock, pop), 6pm 185 KING STREET Wild River (acoustic duo), 7pm 305 LOUNGE & EATERY Bob Sherill (singer-songwriter), 1pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY Classic Beauties Drag Show Downtownk 8pm ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR KB & The AGB (rock, blues), 7:30pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL You need to CALM DOWN - A Taylor Swift Dance Party, 9pm BOLD ROCK HARD CIDER Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm CATAWBA BREWING TASTING ROOM Catawba Biltmore Trivia Night w/Billy Nesbit, 6:30pm CONTINUUM ART Singer Songwriter Open Mic Night, 6pm CREEKSIDE TAPHOUSE Thursday Night Trivia w/ Kelsey, 6:30pm FLEETWOOD'S Crushed, Shutterings & Clout Chaser (post hardcore punk), 8pm GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM Gluten-Free Comedy (open mic), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Ben Phantom (singer-songwriter), 6pm ISIS MUSIC HALL & KITCHEN 743 •Asheville Sessions w/Jeff Thompson (jazz), 7pm •Buffalo Rose (folk, Americana, bluegrass), 8:30pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich & Friends, 7pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Kid Billy (Americana, roots), 7pm ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Gunslinging Parrots (Phish tribute) 9pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Seth and Sara (Americana, country, pop), 6pm OSKAR BLUES BREWERY Trivia Night w/Nick Pearl, 6pm POLANCO RESTAURANT SENSE w/DJ Audio, 9pm SILVERADOS Get Vocal Karaoke, 7pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Free Weekly Table Tennis Tournament, 7pm THE 2ND ACT Russ Wilson & The 2nd Act Orchestra (swing), 7pm THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Karaoke w/Karaoke Jackazz, 8pm THE ODDITORIUM Bleeth, Night Beers, Speed Trials, & Sludgemuffin (post-metal, grindviolence, sludgeviolence), 7pm TRISKELION BREWING CO. Woody & Sunshine (jam), 7pm UPCOUNTRY BREWING COMPANY Open Mic Night, 6pm

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18 185 KING STREET Vilai Harrington & the Hamptones (country), 8pm 305 LOUNGE & EATERY Geriatric Jukebox (oldies), 5pm BREWSKIES Karaoke, 10pm CATAWBA BREWING SOUTH SLOPE Kate Bryant & Stephan Evans (singer-songwriter), 7pm

SHALL WE GATHER AT THE RIVER: Zillicoah Beer Co. will hold its biweekly Sunday Bluegrass Jam on Feb. 20, 4:30-7:30 p.m. The family-friendly riverside gathering begins with a set at 4:30, followed by an open jam at 5:30. Photo courtesy of Zillicoah Beer Co. ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Free Dead Friday w/Gus & Phriends (Grateful Dead, rock, jam) 9pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Hustle Souls (soul), 7pm SALVAGE STATION Sirens of the Southeast Tour: Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast w/Abby Bryant & The Echoes (Americana, psychedelic soul rock)k 8pm SILVERADOS Mile High Band (country), 9pm THE DUGOUT Fine Line (rock), 8pm THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Getaway Comedy: Kourtlyn Wiggins, 8pm THE GREY EAGLE John Moreland w/Will Johnson (folk)k 9pm THE ODDITORIUM Bumpin' Uglies Presents EMO NIGHT, 8pm

CORK & KEG My New Favorites (honky tonk, Appalachian)k 8pm

THE POE HOUSE Howie Johnson (rock), 7pm

DRY FALLS BREWING CO. David Payne (singer-songwriter), 7pm

TRISKELION BREWING CO. Tanner Burch (outlaw country), 7pm

FLEETWOOD'S Spirit Ritual, Tear Ducks, The Floral Hygienists & Fleur Girl (indie)k 8pm

WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT Andrew Thelston (rock, blues, folk), 7pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO. The Feels (roots, soul, R&B), 7pm ISIS MUSIC HALL & KITCHEN 743 •Jill Sobule (acoustic, folk, songwriter), 7pm •Bluegrass w/Kristy Cox, 8:30pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Drayton & the Dreamboats (swing, Latin, jazz), 8pm LAZY HIKER BREWING SYLVA Kyle Travers (funk, soul, bluegrass), 8pm MILLS RIVER BREWING Gin Mill Pickers (acoustic duo), 8pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. ALR Trio (blues, rock), 8pm

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19 185 KING STREET The New Elementals (roots), 8pm ARCHETYPE TAP LOUNGE + VENUE The AVL Jazz Workshop, 7pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY Beauty Parlor Comedy w/Charlie Vergosk, 7pm ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR The 40, 20, 10s (Americana), 7:30pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL LITZ w/Dr. Bacon (Appalachian funk, rock, soul), 9pm BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE Dinah's Daydream (gypsy jazz), 5:30pm

BREWSKIES Pool Tournament Saturdays, 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST JLAD (Doors tribute), 7pm

BURNTSHIRT VINEYARDS High Sierra (acoustic trio), 2pm

POLANCO RESTAURANT SAUXE on Saturdays w/ DJ Audio, 9pm

BURNTSHIRT VINEYARDS CHIMNEY ROCK Roots and Dore (roots), 2pm

SALVAGE STATION Marvelous Funkshun (with Opposite Box), 8pm,

CITIZEN VINYL Saturday Spins, 1pm CORK & KEG Andy & Ruthie Hunger (folk rock, blues, country) k 8pm CROW & QUILL Best Western Swing Bandk 8:30pm DRY FALLS BREWING CO. The Lads avl (acoustic duo), 7pm GUIDON BREWING Jeff Michaels Folkadelic Jam (rock, folk), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Laura Blackley & The Wild Flowers (Appalachian blues, soul), 7pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Falcon 3 Live (improvisational), 6-8pm ISIS MUSIC HALL & KITCHEN 743 •Bob Sinclair and the Big Deals (Americana, classical, swing), 7pm •UNCA Jazz and Contemporary Music Nightk 8:30pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Cutthroat Shamrocks (bluegrass, punk rock, Celtic), 8pm MILLS RIVER BREWING •Nick Colavito (Appalachian folk), 2pm •Stephen Evans (folk rock), 7pm

SILVERADOS Pony Bradshaw (singer-songwriter), 9pm SUNNY POINT CAFÉ Albi (vintage jazz), 6pm THE DUGOUT Graywind (rock), 8pm Ricky Gunter (country), 8pm THE GREY EAGLE David Bromberg Quintet w/Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley (Americana, roots)k 8pm THE POE HOUSE Mr Jimmy (blues), 7pm TRISKELION BREWING CO. Mojomatic (rock, blues), 7pm WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT DJ Phantom Phantone & Friends, 7pm

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20 185 KING STREET Open Electric Jam w/the King Street House Band ft. Howie Johnson, 5pm ARCHETYPE TAP LOUNGE + VENUE Trivia Sundays, 4:30pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY Life's A Drag Brunch w/ Ida Carolinak 12pm BURNTSHIRT VINEYARDS Seth & Sara (acoustic duo), 2pm BURNTSHIRT VINEYARDS CHIMNEY ROCK Ashes and Arrows (Americana), 2pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Imij of Soul (Jimi Hendrix tribute), 8pm

HIGHLAND BREWING COMPANY Soul Jazz Sundays w/ Taylor Pierson Trio, 3pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Short & Company (Americana, blues), 10pm

HIGHLAND DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Blues and Brews w/ Stewart Levine, 1pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Sunday Bluegrass Brunch w/Supper Break,12pm

THE GOLDEN PINEAPPLE Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 8pm

CATAWBA BREWING SOUTH SLOPE General Themed Trivia Night w/Bingeable, 7pm

SWEETEN CREEK BREWING Witty Wednesday Trivia, 6:30pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING The Knotty G's (Americana), 2pm

THE GREY EAGLE Joshua Ray Walker (singer-songwriter)k 8pm

THE BARRELHOUSE Open Mic Hosted by Kid Billy, 8pm

BOLD ROCK HARD CIDER Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Shakedown Sunday (Grateful Dead, rock, jam), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR Mr Jimmy & Friends (blues), 7pm

CATAWBA BREWING TASTING ROOM Catawba Biltmore Trivia Night w/Billy Nesbit, 6:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE Andy Shauf (singer-songwriter)k 7pm

CREEKSIDE TAPHOUSE Thursday Night Trivia w/ Kelsey, 6:30pm

THE ODDITORIUM Bad Wires, B & Iron Sights (grindcore, metalcore), 7pm

DOUBLE CROWN Gospel Night with The Voices of Harmonyk 9pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Sunday Jazz Jam w/The Fully Vaccinated Jazz Trio, 1pm OSKAR BLUES BREWERY Bob Keel (singer-songwriter), 4pm PLEB URBAN WINERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 4pm SALVAGE STATION Grateful Dread w/Chalwa & Friends (Dead, reggae) k 7pm THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Bike Night w/DJ Avel Veeta, 2pm THE GREY EAGLE Burlesque Brunchk 12pm THE ODDITORIUM NeverFall, No Coffin & Oblivion Throne (hardcore, thrash), 8pm TRISKELION BREWING CO. Johnnie Blackwell (rock, blues), 3pm ZILLICOAH BEER CO Sunday Bluegrass Jam Series, 4:30pm

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21 BREWSKIES Open Jam w/the Tall Paul, 7:30pm CATAWBA BREWING SOUTH SLOPE Musicians in the Round, 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING COMPANY Totally Rad Trivia w/ Mitch Fortune, 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Chris Norred Duo (jazz), 4pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Quizzo! Pub Trivia w/ Jason Mencer, 7:30pm LITTLE JUMBO The Core (jazz)k 7pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. It Takes All Kinds Open Mic, 7:30pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Monday Mashup, 7pm OSKAR BLUES BREWERY Steep Canyon Rangers Winter Camp, 6:30pm SILVERADOS 8 Ball Tournament, 7pm THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Trivia by the River w/ James Harrod, 8pm

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 185 KING STREET John Trufant & Friends w/Barrett Davis, JT Linville and Ryan Stigmon (roots), 6pm 305 LOUNGE & EATERY Bob Sherill (singer-songwriter), 1pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY Downtown Karaoke w/ Ganymedek 9pm FRENCH BROAD BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm, GINGER'S REVENGE Board Game Comedy Hour w/Grant Lyon, 7pm ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Early Tuesday Jam w/ The Trilateral Omission (funk), 8pm

HI-WIRE BREWING BIG TOP Free Weekly Trivia Night, 7pm HI-WIRE BREWING RAD BEER GARDEN Game Night, 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Well Crafted Wednesdays w/Matt Smith (singer-songwriter), 6pm ICONIC KITCHEN & DRINKS Marc Keller (acoustic), 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night Wednesdays w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 7pm OSKAR BLUES BREWERY Steep Canyon Rangers Winter Camp, 6:30pm RENDEZVOUS Albi (vintage jazz), 6pm SILVERADOS Open Mic, 7pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic w/ Caleb Beissert, 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Zoso (Led Zeppelin tribute)k 8pm TRISKELION BREWING CO. TriskaTrivia, 7pm TURGUA BREWING CO Trivia Night, 6pm UPCOUNTRY BREWING COMPANY Trivia Night w/Not Rocket Science, 7pm

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24 131 MAIN Aaron LaFalce (soul, rock, pop), 6pm 305 LOUNGE & EATERY Bob Sherill (singer-songwriter), 1pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY Classic Beauties Drag Show Downtownk 8pm

BLUE RIDGE HEMP CO. Comedy Night w/Grant Lyon, 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Danny Feedback, Bad Ties, & Safety Coffin (suckadelic, per-rock, post-Madonnas), 8pm GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM Gluten-Free Comedy, (open mic), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Alice Bradley (singer-songwriter), 6pm ISIS MUSIC HALL & KITCHEN 743 Asheville Sessions w/ Melissa McKinney (jazz, blues, rock), 7pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich & Friends, 7pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Michael "Country" Carver (country, blues), 7pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Gunslinging Parrots (Phish tribute) 9pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Urban Soil Duo (singer-songwriter, roots rock), 7pm OSKAR BLUES BREWERY Steep Canyon Rangers Winter Camp, 6:30pm POLANCO RESTAURANT SENSE w/DJ Audio, 9pm SILVERADOS Get Vocal Karaoke, 7pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Free Weekly Table Tennis Tournament, 7pm THE 2ND ACT Russ Wilson & The 2nd Act Orchestra (swing), 7pm THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Karaoke w/Karaoke Jackazz, 8pm THE GREY EAGLE Brett Dennen (singer-songwriter)k 8pm THE ODDITORIUM Doctor Finnegan's Circus, 8pm TRISKELION BREWING CO. Jason's Krazy Karaoke, 6:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Grateful Family Band Tuesdays (Dead tribute), 6pm OSKAR BLUES BREWERY Steep Canyon Rangers Winter Camp, 6:30pm SILVERADOS Get Vocal Karaoke, 7pm SWEETEN CREEK BREWING All Arts Open Mike w/ Mike Waters, 6pm THE GREY EAGLE Open Mic Nightk 6pm THE ORANGE PEEL Between the Buried and Me (progressive metal) k 7pm

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23 12 BONES BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm 185 KING STREET Trivia Night, 7pm ARCHETYPE TAP LOUNGE + VENUE Locals Night, 4pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY •Beauty Parlor Comedy: Andrew Rudickk 7pm •Aquanet Goth Partyk 9pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Disclaimer Stand-Up Lounge Comedy Open Mic, 8pm BREWSKIES Free Pool All Day, All Night, 1pm

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FREEWILL ASTROLOGY ARIES (March 21-April 19): You’re slipping into a phase when stuff that has been invisible will become visible, at least to you. You will have extra power to peer beneath the surfaces, discern the hidden agendas and study the deeper workings. Your interest in trivia and distractions will dissipate, and you’ll feel intensified yearnings to home in on core truths. Here’s your guiding principle during this time: Favor the interests of the soul over those of the ego. And for inspiration, have fun with this quote by religious scholar Huston Smith: “The Transcendent was my morning meal, we had the Eternal at lunch, and I ate a slice of the Infinite at dinner.”

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Author Gayle Forman offers a set of truths that I suspect will be useful for you in the coming weeks. They may even be inspirational and motivational. Forman writes, “Sometimes fate or life or whatever you want to call it, leaves a door a little open, and you walk through it. But sometimes it locks the door and you have to find the key, or pick the lock, or knock the damn thing down. And sometimes, it doesn’t even show you the door, and you have to build it yourself.” Are you ready for the challenge, Libra? I think you are.

Do whatever you must do to go through the doorways you want and need to go through.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “You cannot have fun with anything that you don’t love or admire or respect,” declared comedian Mel Brooks. I agree! The joyous release that comes through playful amusement is most likely to unfold when you’re in the presence of influences you are fond of. The good news, Taurus, is that in the coming weeks, you will have a special inclination and knack for hanging around people and influences like that. Therefore, you will have an enhanced capacity for mirth, delight and pleasure. Take full advantage, please! As much as possible, gravitate toward what you love and admire and respect.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash described her process. “I dream of songs,” she began. “I dream they fall down through the centuries, from my distant ancestors, and come to me. I dream of lullabies and sea shanties and keening cries and rhythms and stories and backbeats.” Scorpio, I would love for you to explore comparable approaches to getting the creative ideas you need to live your best life possible. I would love for you to draw freely from sources beyond your conscious ego — including your ancestors, the people you were in previous incarnations, gods and spirits, heroes and allies, the intelligence of animals, and the wisdom of nature. The coming months will be a favorable time to expand your access. Start boosting the signals now!

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “The thing about inspiration is that it takes your mind off everything else,” says Gemini author Vikram Seth. I bring this truth to your attention because I believe you will soon be the beneficiary of steady, strong waves of inspiration. I also predict that these waves will transport you away from minor irritations that are best left alone for now. Be alert and ever-ready to spring into action, my dear, so that as the inspirational surges flow, you will harvest the maximum rewards from their gifts.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The advice that Reb Nachman of Breslov offered two centuries ago is just right for you now: “Never ask directions from someone who knows the way, or you will never be able to get lost.” In the coming weeks, you will attract tricky but palpable blessings from meandering around without knowing exactly where you are. It’s time for you to find out what you don’t even realize you need to know; to stumble upon quiet little wonders and marvels that will ultimately prove to be guideposts for your holy quests in the future.

Yes, I understand that being in unknown territory without a reliable map isn’t usually a pleasure, but I believe it will be for you. PS: Our fellow Cancerian, author Rebecca Solnit, wrote a book entitled A Field Guide to Getting Lost. It might be helpful during your wanderings. Read a summary of it here: tinyurl.com/GuideToGettingLost LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “You face your greatest opposition when you’re closest to your biggest miracle,” wrote author and filmmaker T. D. Jakes. According to my analysis of upcoming astrological omens, that’s good advice for you. I suspect that the problems you encounter will be among your best and most useful ever. With the right attitude, you will harness the challenges to generate magnificent breakthroughs. And what’s the right attitude?

Proceed with the hypothesis that life is now conspiring to bring your soul exactly what your soul needs to express its ripest beauty.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “Always remember this,” said actor Hattie McDaniel (1893–1952).

“There are only 18 inches between a pat on the back and a kick in the rump.” Metaphorically speaking, I believe her advice will be useful for you in the coming days. Lately, you’ve had to deal with too many experiences and influences akin to kicks in the rump. But now that will change. Soon there’ll be a surge of experiences and influences that resemble pats on the back.

In my estimation, you have finished paying your dues and making course corrections.

Now it’s time for you to receive meaningful appreciation and constructive approval.

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Author Madeleine Thien has lived in Vancouver, Montreal, and Iowa City, and has taught at schools in Hong Kong and Brooklyn. Her father was born and raised in Malaysia and her mother in Hong Kong. She has a rich array of different roots. Not surprisingly, then, she has said, “I like to think of home as a verb, something we keep recreating.” That’s an excellent meditation for you right now, Sagittarius. And it will continue to be worthy of your ruminations for another four months. What’s the next step you could take to feel comfortable and secure and at peace?

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The fastest animal on earth is the peregrine falcon, which can reach speeds of 200 miles per hour when it dives from a great height. The seventh-fastest creature is the humble pigeon. Having been clocked at 92.5 miles per hour, the bird outpaces the cheetah, which is the fastest land animal. I propose we make the pigeon your spirit creature for the coming weeks. On the one hand, you may seem mild and modest to casual observers. On the other hand, you will in fact be sleek, quick and agile. Like the pigeon, you will also be highly adaptable, able to thrive in a variety of situations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “Self-control might be as passionate and as active as the surrender to passion,” wrote Aquarian author W. Somerset Maugham. Yes! I agree! And that’s the perfect message for you to hear right now.

If you choose to take advantage of the potentials that life is offering you, you will explore and experiment with the mysteries of self-discipline and self-command. You’ll be a trailblazer of discernment and poise. You will indulge in and enjoy the pleasures of self-regulation.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In 1961, Piscean cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin was the first human to orbit the Earth in a spacecraft. As his feat neared its end, Gagarin left the capsule at 20,000 feet above the ground and parachuted the rest of the way. He arrived in a turnip field where a girl and her grandmother were working. They provided him with a horse and cart so he could travel to the nearest telephone and make a call to get picked up and brought back to headquarters. I foresee a metaphorically comparable series of events transpiring in your life, Pisces.

Be flexible and adaptable as you adjust to changing conditions with changing strategies.

Your exceptional and illustrious activities may require the assistance of humble influences.

MOUNTAINX.COM

MARKETPLACE

BY ROB BREZSNY

REAL ESTATE & RENTALS | ROOMMATES | JOBS | SERVICES ANNOUNCEMENTS | CLASSES & WORKSHOPS | MIND, BODY, SPIRIT MUSICIANS’ SERVICES | PETS | AUTOMOTIVE | XCHANGE | ADULT EMPLOYMENT GENERAL BREWERY SUPPORT WORKER The Brewery Support Worker 1 is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the brewery and restaurants to the highest standard of quality.

Reporting to the Brewery Support Supervisor, the core responsibility of the role is to perform facility wide housekeeping and sanitation duties to ensure the facility is orderly and hygienic. This is an entry-level position into a production facility with internal growth opportunities. Email recruiting@ sierranevada.com. https:// sierranevada.com/careers/

SALES/ MARKETING

SALES PROFESSIONAL WORK FOR A LOCAL COMPANY THAT HAS COVERED THE LOCAL SCENE FOR OVER 20 YEARS! This is a full-time position with benefits in a supportive, team-oriented environment in a community-service, locally-owned business. Ideal candidates are personable, organized, motivated, and can present our company with confidence. Necessary skills include clear and professional communications (via phone, email, and in-person meetings), detailed record-keeping, and self motivation. While no outside sales experience is required, experience dealing with varied and challenging situations is helpful. The position largely entails account development and lead generation (including cold-calling), account management, assisting clients with marketing and branding strategies. If you are a high energy, positive, cooperative person looking to join an independent media organization, please send a resume and cover letter (no walk-ins, please) explaining why you are a good fit for Mountain Xpress to: xpressjob@mountainx.com.

RESTAURANT/ FOOD LINE COOK: SIERRA NEVADA BREWING $1,000 SIGN ON BONUS + BENEFITS The Line Cook is a member of the kitchen team, who will work closely with all other positions in the Back of the House operations to prep, cook, and expedite food to the guests ordering onsite, delivery, and to-go.The Line Cook, who reports to the BOH Supervisor Team, operates grills, fryers, broilers, and other commercial cooking equipment to prepare and serve food. https:// sierranevada.com/careers/

MEDICAL/ HEALTH CARE DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL Group Home Full time Benefited position available in Waynesville. Paraprofessional will participate in care of the residents by providing medication, guidance, supervision and prompting.

Diploma, driver's license, computer documentation required. Call 828-778-0260 or email veronica.long@ eastersealsucp.com.

HOLISTIC VETERINARY TECHNICIAN/ASSISTANT Veterinary Technician/ Assistant. Holistic, Sunvet Animal Wellness. Downtown Asheville. Needed ASAP. Train $15 x 5 weeks. $16 start. Motivated, efficient, great blood draws. Inventory: supplements/pharmaceuticals.

We welcome you in! Email resume & cover letter to careers@sunvetanimalwellness.com. No calls or walk-ins.

MEDICAL- NURSES NEEDED STATEWIDE MEDICAL- RNS $40/HR. for addictions, psych & corrections in Asheville and throughout Western NC. All shifts. Fully employer-paid medical and dental. 401(k) with 6% employer contribution. Call Morgan at Worldwide Staffing 866.633.3700 x 114

HUMAN SERVICES CHILDREN FIRST COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS IS HIRING AN AFTERSCHOOL & SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM MANAGER Duties include management and oversight of Children First/ Communities In Schools afterschool and summer enrichment,

including supervision of assigned staff, AmeriCorps members and volunteers.

They also provide direction to program coordinators/ specialists regarding related function, involvement and scope including 21st Century Community Learning Centers requirements. The Afterschool & Summer Enrichment Program Manager will represent and assist with community outreach, engagement and serve on community collaborations related to the mission. Send cover letter & resume to employment@ childrenfirstbc.org.

FULL-TIME POSITION: PROGRAM MANAGER Onsite Program Manager position at treatment center for LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health issues. Exp. req./45-50k. Contact info@ elevatewellnessandrecovery. com.

HELPMATE SEEKS PRN COURT ADVOCATE Helpmate, a domestic violence victim service provider in Asheville, NC, seeks a Relief Court Advocate. This position is a temporary, non-exempt position scheduled as needed, reporting directly to the Court Advocacy Coordinator. The Relief Court Advocate position provides support, crisis counseling and court advocacy to victims of domestic violence and supplement the work of other Court Advocacy program staff. The Relief Court Advocate may provide supplementary coverage during times of high need or may work alone to provide services during times when other Court Advocacy program staff are not available. Experience in social work, human services, or related field preferred. Send resume and cover letter to hiring@helpmateonline.org by 5pm on February 18th.

Please specify the title of this position in the subject line of your email. No phone calls or email inquiries, please.

JUST ECONOMICS IS HIRING A LIVING WAGE PROGRAM COORDINATOR Just Economics is hiring a full-time Living Wage Program Coordinator to lead our Living Wage Certification program.

For a full job description and to apply, visit: https://www. justeconomicswnc.org/justeconomics-is-hiring-again/

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN ASHEVILLE! Make a Difference in the Life of a Child in Asheville! Youth Counselors are needed to provide support to at-risk youth being served in our short-term residential facility. Duties include implementing direct care services, motivating youth, and modeling appropriate behaviors. Candidates must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license.

Experience working with youth is highly preferred. We offer paid training, excellent benefits, and advancement opportunities. Apply online at https://www.mhfc.org/ opportunities/. Call 919754-3633 or email vpenn@ mhfc.org. https://bit.ly/ MHCCareers

PROFESSIONAL/ MANAGEMENT ALL SOULS COUNSELING CENTER SEEKS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR All Souls Counseling Center (ASCC) seeks a passionate and experienced Executive Director to provide visionary leadership to the organization and its staff, board, and therapists as it provides high quality mental health counseling to the uninsured and underinsured. To apply: https:// allsoulscounseling.org/ employment-opportunities/ NEWS EDITOR We are looking for a newsroom professional who can write, edit copy, handle air-traffic control with incoming information, plan out the weekly print edition, manage some of our social media accounts and take charge of some of our e-newsletters. The Smoky Mountain News takes pride in producing high-quality journalism for Western North Carolina readers. This is a full-time position in a family-owned, diversified media company headquartered in Waynesville, NC. For more information or to apply send a query or resume to Scott McLeod at info@ smokymountainnews.com.

PRODUCTION ENGINEER FOR HAAKON INDUSTRIES, INC. IN CANDLER, NC to develop manufacturing processes of custom industrial

THE N EW Y OR K TI M ES C ROSSWORD P UZ Z LE air handling units. Req’ B’s or foreign equiv. in Mech.

Engineer’g or related. Req. 6m exp of manufactur’g or constructn proj exp work’g in HVAC industry. Req. knowl. of machine design, thermal systems design, thermodynamics, electrical circuits, & manufactur’g methods; eligible to register as a PE; and eligible for 12m training in WA & Richmond, BC, Canada. Apply on https://www.haakon.com/ aboutus/careers

TEACHING/ EDUCATION PART TIME POSITION WITH AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM AT EVERGREEN COMMUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL We are looking for a few more candidates to work with kids in grades K-8. $15/ hr+ DOE. Please see www. evergreenccs.org/careers for full job description and to fill out an application.

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(AAN CAN)

edited by Will Shortz | No. 0112

DIRECTV SATELLITE TV Service Starting at $74.99/ month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 877310-2472 (AAN CAN)

COUNSELING SERVICES

DONATE YOUR CAR TO KIDS Your donation helps fund the search for missing children. Accepting Trucks, Motorcycles & RV’s, too!

Fast Free Pickup – Running or Not - 24 Hour Response Maximum Tax Donation. Call 877-266-0681. (AAN CAN)

ASTRO-COUNSELING Licensed counselor and accredited professional astrologer uses your chart when counseling for additional insight into yourself, your relationships and life directions.

Stellar Counseling Services.

Christy Gunther, MA, LCMHC. (828) 258-3229.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Lucy P. Chandler: All claims against estate should be sent with debt and account numbers to Lana Chandler: Executor 420 Panther Branch Rd. Alexander, N.C. 28701 Written this day January 31, 2022 for four consecutive weeks.

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MIND, BODY, SPIRIT

HEALTH & FITNESS

TIME TO INVEST IN YOURSELF, TIME TO BUILD A BETTER YOU My name is Luis Baltierrez, founder of Caffeine N Fitness, a training facility that offers personal training, group classes, strong coffee and full accountability for success.

Details at www.caffeinenfitness. com. For questions, contact me at caffeine.n.fitness89@gmail. com or call 619-587-1384.

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NEWER MODELS too! Call 866-535-9689. (AAN CAN)

ACROSS 1 End of a dorm name, usually 5 Old-fashioned “Jeez!”

10 Huggers 14 Cause for an aha 15 On the up and up 16 One of more than 30,000 in Scotland 17 “A Fish Called Wanda” co-star [7,9] 19 Tapered hairstyle 20 Say “I dunno,” say 21 Wolf (down) 23 Female whitetail, e.g.

24 Last ___ (final option) 26 A total blast [8,1] 28 On one side of an outfield pole 30 Sister brand of Crest 31 Pre-weekend outburst 34 Biting remark 37 Ends of mazes 39 “Whew!”

40 Purple Heart honoree, maybe [4,0] 42 Giant in camping gear 43 Reply to “Nuh-uh!”

45 Fully cooked 46 Musician’s break 47 Pulse painfully 49 Galifianakis of “Birdman” 51 Eschew scuba gear, say [3,5] 54 Downside of starting a new career path, perhaps 58 Sluglike secretary in “Monsters, Inc.” 59 Sulky states 61 Sandwich eaten next to a fire 62 Nano or Touch 64 Some postermaking supplies [2,6] 66 ___ melt 67 Respected person in a tribe

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1 One often seen wearing boots with shorts 2 Singer with the album “30” 3 ___ Stadium a.k.a. “Field of Jeans” 4 Idled, as workers 5 Animal facing a moose on Michigan’s flag 6 Comes together nicely 7 Anti-___ cream 8 Currency of Iraq 9 System that might include a turntable 10 TV E.T. 11 Impromptu signal to slow down 12 Two-patty burgers introduced in 1997 13 Matte’s lack 18 Ruler during the Great Fire of Rome 22 FX series set in the Great Plains

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68 Caroler’s tune 69 Conform to 70 Landowners’ documents 71 Posh shindig

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25 Brass instrument with the largest mouthpiece 27 East Asian doctrine 29 Nonkosher cooking fat 31 “Spare me the gory details” 32 Venue for meals with microbrews 33 Acutely focused and attuned 35 Greek “P” 36 German automaker Karl 38 Stand no more, say 40 Tiger on the green 41 Glean 44 Contents of a vein

46 Like 17-, 26-, 40-, 51- and 64-Across, with respect to the numbers in their clues 48 Oversaw?

50 Playbill heading 51 ___-Lay 52 Common city name ending 53 Exercise that works the fingers 55 Hot ___ 56 Nerdy “Family Matters” boy 57 Cybertruck maker 60 March Madness datum 63 Word after field or before dreams 65 “For reals,” in texts

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS NY TIMES PUZZLE

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