Mountain Xpress 04.17.24

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WORKING THEIR MAGIC

When it comes to theater, plenty of work gets done offstage. In this week’s cover story, Xpress speaks with some of the behind-thescenes artists responsible for the sets, props and costumes at several local companies.

COVER PHOTO Scott Treadway/Treadshots

COVER DESIGN

venues with upcoming shows

Magical Offerings

April Stone: Botswana Agate

April Herb: Peppercorn

4/19: Reader: Krysta 12-7

SUN enters Taurus

Beginner’s Tarot, Pt. 1 4-5

4/20: Reader: Edward 12-6

Local Vendor Pop Up 1-7

4/23: FULL MOON

Reader: Byron 1-5

4/25: MERCURY goes direct Reader: Jessica

4/26: Reader: Krysta 12-7

Edwin Arnaudin, Thomas Calder,

Braulio Pescador-Martinez CONTRIBUTING

Mindi Friedwald, Peter Gregutt, Rob Mikulak

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Oby Arnold, Mark Barrett, Eric Brown, Carmela Caruso, Cayla Clark, Kristin D’Agostino, Brionna Dallara, Storms Reback, Kay West

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Cindy Kunst

ADVERTISING, ART & DESIGN MANAGER: Susan Hutchinson

ASSISTANT ADVERTISING MANAGER: Vicki Catalano

LEAD DESIGNER: Scott Southwick

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Tina Gaafary, Olivia Urban

MARKETING ASSOCIATES: Sara Brecht, Vicki Catalano, Jamie Knox, Scott Mermel

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES: Hinton Edgerton, Jeff Fobes, Mark Murphy, Scott Southwick

WEB: Brandon Tilley

BOOKKEEPER: Amie Fowler

ADMINISTRATION & BILLING: Hinton Edgerton, Mark Murphy

DISTRIBUTION: Susan Hutchinson, Cindy Kunst

Beginner’s Tarot, Pt. Two 4-5

(828) 424-7868

NEW MOON May 7th

Handmade products from over 40 local vendors!

ashevillepagansupply.store

640 Merrimon Ave. #207

Mon.- Sat. 10-8pm • Sun. 12-6pm

SALES PROFESSIONAL

Work for a local company that has covered the local scene for 30 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 walkins, please) explaining why you are a good fit with Mountain Xpress to: xpressjob@mountainx.com

Keep community informed about HCA

Thank you for covering the important HCA-related news covered by Asheville Watchdog reporter Andrew R. Jones. The recent N.C. Department of Health and Human Services’ findings of nine immediate jeopardy findings, including several deaths, highlight the seriousness of issues around patient safety and quality of care, these in the emergency department. It’s imperative that we as a community remain informed.

Xpress’ coverage reaches an important audience. Please continue to post all of the Watchdog HCA reporting. The value of that public service can’t be overestimated.

The issues we’re facing are related to corporate and management leadership decisions in service to profit. The staff at Mission deserves our utmost respect and gratitude, and our applause for their commitment to being the best they can be in providing for our care.

— Bruce Kelly, M.D. Asheville

Haw Creek compromise could be win-win

I wish to respond to Michael Bell’s letter on Haw Creek rezoning [“Opponents Fail to Make Case Against Haw Creek Rezoning,” April 3, Xpress]. His argument does not address the compromise actually being advanced by the Haw Creek Community Association. Far from saying “no” to any rezoning, the community is asking for modifications to protect the mature forest at the east end of the property and provide for larger setbacks. It is estimated this would reduce the number of homes from 95 to a still significant 70. Townhouses would still be built, but forest canopy would be preserved under a modified conditional zoning permit.

CARTOON BY RANDY MOLTON

Bell asks for a solid reason why eliminating canopy would be significantly detrimental. Did he not hear the discussion of rain runoff during the Planning Board meeting? Heavy rains already flood Haw Creek, blocking Dogwood Grove and Arco Road. Increased runoff could flood Bell Road and Beverly Road, the latter being one of only two ways to exit the valley in an emergency.

The developer’s design suffers from a lack of imagination. Roads are drawn with straight lines, intersections with right angles. Homes are shown as identical cookie-cutter rectangles. The design could follow the natural contours of the land. Creative planning and imaginative use of design add nothing to the cost of the project. And prorating the cost of the purchase among 70 instead of 95 homes adds just 2% to the cost of each home.

Bell is arguing against a “straw man.” The alternative to the proposed development is not the 49 homes the developer can build by right. Haw Creek wants Kevin Jackson to sit down, seriously

home also borders this lot, and for months I’ve feared the deep harm that this development would cause. I hear a great horned owl nightly; red hawks fly overhead; black bear families frequent my yard passing through to the forest. This special area offers so much to our nonhuman friends and, in turn, for us.

Asheville has one of the worst housing crises nationwide, and the impacts are alarming. Asheville City Schools teachers are leaving at a higher rate than any North Carolina school system. Asheville City firefighters still aren’t being paid a living wage. Per the Thrive Asheville study, those disproportionately affected by the housing crisis are Black or brown households led by single mothers. We really, desperately need affordable housing.

negotiate the issues and reach a mutually agreeable compromise that will provide desperately needed housing while respecting the needs of the community.

— David Ourisman Asheville

Council must listen to community on Haw Creek project

On Tuesday, April 23, Asheville City Council decides the fate of a 27-acre Haw Creek lot, a unique ecosystem in the valley behind the Blue Ridge Parkway, for a conditional zoning request for 95 homes, The Meadows at Haw Creek. Each Council member has a yes or no vote based on their interpretation of whether this is land use that’s reasonable and in the public interest. Meanwhile, over 2,000 residents and community members have expressed extreme concern for its lack of consideration for connectivity, the natural environment, affordability and infrastructure impact.

To be very clear: We’re not antidevelopment and recognize growth is inevitable. But what’s being asked for approval (a conditional zoning request is special permission) would be devastating. Together in community, we’ve knocked hundreds of doors talking to neighbors, gathered petition signatures and solicited a survey. Through many hours of community meetings, we’ve compromised on four very reasonable requests in exchange for approval. Yet the development counsel is cherry-picking.

As an Asheville resident for 15 years and Haw Creek for nine, I’ve felt the growing pains in this city evolve. My

Given a proposal with zero commitment to affordability and far out of reach from the median income here, we have to ask: Whom do these houses benefit? The “all housing is good housing” narrative we’ve heard from developers, from select Planning and Zoning Commission members at the March 26 meeting, from greenwashed “environmentalists” who are influencing these decisions behind closed doors, is out of context and disruptive.

The development would demolish an area that’s 52% tree canopy to 12%. Mature trees cannot simply be replaced. Heavy rain causes instant flooding, and we have frequent stormwater issues. With only two ways in and out of the valley, what happens with wildfires or extreme flooding? Haw Creek is high risk for both, per the climate resiliency report (adopted into the Living Asheville comprehensive plan). One of our four requests is to modestly reduce the number of houses to preserve the back 6 acres of forest (leading to the parkway). But the development counsel ran the numbers, and it wouldn’t be profitable.

The Asheville Missing Middle Housing Study & Displacement Risk Assessment suggests specific areas for development; this isn’t one. It recommends housing be built in “Walkable Centers”; this area is not. In an area already dangerous for walkability and bikeability, plus lack of public transit access, this would force greater reliance on cars.

We believe a better future is possible, and we’re at a crossroads. It’s vital that Council members listen to the community, center equity and neighborhood resiliency first and vote no — so we can explore better options. This is precedent-setting for all Ashevilleans.

Show up on April 23 for the City Council meeting at 4 p.m. at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville and let your voice be heard (more info: avl.mx/dl7).

And remember, local leaders are in office based on your vote.

— Ashley McDermott Asheville

Get a whiff of this

Pondering waste in its many forms

BY DENNIS DRABELLE

Lately I’ve been thinking way too much about waste. The onslaught started a few months ago, when my partner and I joined the City of Asheville’s composting program. The chore of taking our slop bucket to the East Asheville Library branch has been a revelation — of maggots.

Before the entomologists among you get huffy, I can’t swear that the pinky-fingernail-sized wigglers that sometimes go berserk when I lift the lid of the library’s outdoor bin are actual, taxonomical maggots. It’s just that I love using that term for them because it rolls off the tongue so contemptuously.

I also acknowledge that these writhing gorgers are probably making a valuable contribution to the ultimate recycling of food scraps, but the sight of them gives me a feeling midway between fascination and the creeps — something like heebies

without jeebies. If there isn’t already a collective noun for the creatures — the helminthological counterpart to “a gaggle of geese” or “a murder of crows” — I nominate “a hurl of maggots.”

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

Next, while out driving on a recent Saturday morning, I happened to hear a startling snatch of radio talk. During the complete-the-limerick segment of the NPR quiz show “Wait Wait ... Don’t Tell Me!” it was revealed that a Dutch entrepreneur has invented a way to make fabric out of hair clippings swept up from barbershop floors. How did the show’s panelists react to this ingenious example of recycling? With disgust.

Have they never read “The Gift of the Magi,” the sentimental tale by Asheville’s own O. Henry, in which an impoverished wife cuts off and

sells her long, lustrous hair to buy her husband a watch chain for Christmas without knowing that he just sold his watch to buy her a set of combs? Human hair as a useful commodity is nothing new, and to my ear, the Wait Waiters sounded like prigs.

DON’T TREAD ON ME

Then came an astonishing story reported by Will Hofmann last month in the Citizen Times, which was also the subject of a March 13 Brent Brown cartoon in Mountain Xpress In case you missed it, the two co-proprietors of three highly rated Airbnbs in Weaverville have been accused of dumping the treated contents of their composting toilets into the woods on their property.

WASTE OF YORE

Far from being contrite, the owners as presented by the article were defiant, with their unorthodoxy embracing more than just doo-doo disposal. Arguably, their business plan might be summed up as To Hell with Permits. According to the story, Buncombe County claims the owners failed to obtain certificates of occupancy for the rentals, ignored the approval requirements for plugging into the local electrical grid or connecting toilets to wastewater management facilities. And on the story goes, all the way to the law of process-serving, which the accused seem to want to unilaterally rewrite to say that the only valid method is by certified mail.

Continuing the nose-wrinkling theme, the article notes that one of the Weaverville Two argues that bears get to poop freely in the woods, as do “people of the Amazon rainforest,” the implication being, apparently, that Buncombe County visitors should in effect be able to do the same.

The article does not identify either of the alleged rebels as a trained scatologist, but even an amateur student of scat could set them straight: Being hopelessly illiterate, bears have a constitutional right not to apply for permits. The people of the Amazon rainforest have yet to weigh in on the issue, but the county has gone ahead without them by bringing a lawsuit against the pair. The whole affair might be summed up by adding a fillip to one of the tea party’s slogans: Don’t Tread On Me — or On My Odoriferous Backyard.

Throughout all this storm and stress, as it happens, I’ve been reading Charles Dickens’ last completed novel, Our Mutual Friend. (It’s taken me so long because the edition I have was published by Penguin Classics, an outfit not known for the largeness of its print, and the book runs to 911 pages.) The novel’s central symbol is a mound of “dust,” a Victorianera euphemism for garbage, and one of the main characters is the mound’s owner.

As an endnote explains, “Dust Mounds hover over Our Mutual Friend just as they did over suburban London. Domestic refuse was collected by contractors and dumped in private dust-yards. The heaps were then sorted into their various constituents and sold. … The sifters looked for coal, vegetable matter to be used as manure, pans, crockery and earthenware, all sold for use in road making, bones, which were sold to soap makers, rags, which were used in paper making, and metal to be used again. Ashes themselves, even, were of value, being sold as ‘brieze’ to brick makers. Writers on the subject never deny the foulness of the heaps, but it is clear that they were good business.”

London’s rampant poverty surely had a lot to do with this early recycling venture. Still, for all the Victorians’ squeamishness about the human body, they evidently had a healthy regard for stuff we might dismiss as so much crap.

Meanwhile back in Asheville, I want to address a plea to our Composting Czar. If you can keep the bugs out of the system, I, for one, will be a happy composter.

Dennis Drabelle is a writer who lives in Haw Creek.

DENNIS DRABELLE

Paddling upstream in the Amazon (b)rainforest MY

I am a modestly successful author of 17 books, only one of which ever generated a steady income. (Hence the modesty.) Others sell now and again, here and there — mostly here, and mostly when I’m able to stage some sort of “author event.” Due to unsought notoriety, I’ve been fortunate enough to be invited to address audiences in 25 cities in a dozen states, and that has certainly contributed to my effort to peddle my stuff to a disparate readership.

When I was a couple of decades younger and embraced high hopes for my then decade-old writing career, I tried to engage an agent, which I soon learned was a career of its own. There’s a whole lot of who you know, who you know knows who, and a dash of luck in that enterprise.

At about the same time I learned that authors whose books appear on the front cover of The New York Times Book Review often end up owing their publishers money. They may have been lucky enough to get a juicy advance, but the ensuing book tour, promotion and what-all are billed to the scribe. (Unless, perhaps, the scribe has generated a ton of money for the company in the past and is able to negotiate a sweeter deal.)

Looking further, I learned that a new author might garner a 5% royalty. Hmmm. So, if a title sold 1,000 copies at $12 each, the “talent” could nab $600, minus whatever was contractually debited.

So, I decided to self-publish. I had my first two titles printed by the only union print shop in South Carolina (whose owners I knew). One thousand copies of each. I managed to profit more than $600 on each title (selling far fewer than the print runs) — very gradually, over the years. It wasn’t a gold mine, but it wasn’t “unsuccessful” (assuming, as all writers must, that my time has no intrinsic value).

Then came print on demand! POD changed everything for self-publishers. I signed up with a company called CreateSpace. I was able to fashion books and covers and choose prices with no upfront cost. I could then purchase one copy or 10,000. A $12 book cost me about $4, so if I sold them at events, I made a 66% “royalty.” If I sold them wholesale, I made about $3 per copy. This beat the 5% option like a drum. I’ve made a little money on every effort since.

I marketed them to indie booksellers because I believe in indie booksellers. I eventually had wholesale buyers in about a dozen cities. Along the way, I found I could also market them through Amazon.

What a dilemma. I hate what Amazon has done to local retailers (starting with bookstores). I love the fact that it enables me to reach a global audience — and one of my titles sells better in Europe than here at home. Then Amazon bought CreateSpace. Sheesh.

I released my first 12 titles via author events at Malaprop’s Bookstore. They weren’t thrilled that I began printing via Amazon (which I certainly “get”), but since I was local, they humored me. Then came COVID-19, and author events understandably paused. Meanwhile, holed up with my laptop, I finished and published five collections of short stories. Ta-da!

Once events became a thing again, I attempted to schedule something with Malaprop’s. New management, perhaps, or rethinking of policy, and books printed by the monster were not welcome. OK. I get that. But I learned that they would accept titles published via IngramSpark, which distributes POD to indies.

Hey, hey! I could gain in the local market and diminish my Amazon guilt!

So, I republished my latest efforts through IngramSpark at $150 a pop for setup. Still a no-go from Malaprop’s, and I have only sold a couple of copies through the new distributor, but the royalties are a tad higher per copy, and maybe I will learn to feel content about the expensive choice. Unlike Amazon, IngramSpark has no retail option, and I’m currently about $730 from breaking even.

Meanwhile, halfway through writing No. 18, the seductive muse urges me on.

— Cecil Bothwell Asheville

Cecil Bothwell is a former managing editor of Xpress and the author of The Prince of War: Billy Graham’s Crusade for a Wholly Christian Empire, Pure Bunkum: The Life and Crimes of Buncombe County Sheriff Bobby Lee Medford and most recently, That’s Life (as we know it). X

CECIL BOTHWELL AND FRIEND

Coming home

BY GREG PARLIER

Alternative education in Asheville City Schools may be returning to Montford gparlier@mountainx.com

Ten years ago, Asheville City Schools displaced Randolph Learning Center — its once-successful majority-Black alternative program — from its home on Montford Avenue. Asheville High School Principal Derek Edwards has called it the worst decision ACS has made in his 20-plus years in the district.

Soon, the district may be poised to give its long-transient alternative program, now called the Education and Career Academy, a permanent home at the same site on Montford Avenue.

While discussing the consolidation of Montford North Star Academy into Asheville Middle School, it came up that the building would be a good home for the ECA, which serves students who are unsuccessful in a traditional school setting. The Asheville City Board of Education subsequently voted March 11 to consolidate the two middle schools next school year, freeing up space for ECA to potentially move from its temporary home at the Housing Authority of the City of Asheville’s Arthur R. Edington Education and Career Center on Livingston Street.

The state requires each district to have an alternative program for high school students who are at risk of dropping out of school. As Edwards, who taught math at RLC, said at a recent school board meeting, that program could be anything from a computer in a room to an entire campus.

“We’ve got to figure out what we’re going to do for our alternative education. What is it going to look like? Because we have had everything under the sun in this district,” Edwards said at the March 4 meeting.

A GLARING MISTAKE

Indeed, in ACS, the program has been on a journey over the last 20 years. In 2003, Randolph Learning Center was established in the William Randolph building, named after the first secretary of the Asheville school board, according to newspaper archives. Back then, the school operated in a space shared with a college preparatory public charter program, the KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) Academy at 90 Montford Ave. Later, after KIPP closed, RLC had the space largely to itself.

During its years at Montford, RLC flourished, according to those who taught there, and became an inde-

GETTING OUTSIDE: Field trips were a common occurrence for students in Asheville City Schools’ Randolph Learning Center, especially during the tenure of Principal Gordon Grant, left, seen here on a hike with students in 2010.

pendent school within the district. RLC’s golden years lasted until its innovative leader, Principal Gordon Grant, was moved by the district to lead Hall Fletcher Elementary in 2011. Two years later, the program was relocated to modular trailers on Livingston Street near the present-day Wesley Grant Southside Center to allow Isaac Dickson Elementary School to occupy 90 Montford Ave. while its own campus was renovated nearby.

Black mold was found almost immediately in the trailers, says former RLC teacher Kimberley Fink Adams, and its students were dispersed into shared spaces at AHS and AMS. Since then, the program has moved at least two more times and churned through three different names, landing on the current Education and Career Academy in 2022.

In hindsight, Kim Dechant, current chief of staff and district spokesper-

son, acknowledges the glaring mistake of moving the school into trailers.

“I think as we work through our equity work, and as we have grown, we can definitely look back and say that was wrong. Out of the gate, that was wrong on so many different levels, to put our most vulnerable students in modular [units],” she says.

Especially in a district that has struggled to sufficiently educate its students of color, including having the largest disparity between white and Black students’ academic proficiency of any district in the state as of 2017, leaders say a strong and stable alternative program is vital.

For 10 years, say multiple teachers who worked there, the Randolph Learning Center provided that stability, serving kids who would have otherwise dropped out of school.

“We absolutely saved lives. There were tragic circumstances that some of our students came out of,” Edwards said.

A LAST RESORT

In its heyday, RLC operated as both a last resort for kids who were on the verge of dropping out and a school of choice for others who were struggling in the traditional classroom setting, says Grant, who is now retired.

“Often the school would say, ‘This kid is really struggling, they’re behaviorally acting out, they’re academically underperforming. They’re not successful here, and they’re not helping other people succeed.’ Or the parents could request that they come to us. And that was the angle we really pursued in my five years there: We reached out to parents,” he says.

Parents and students bought into the school’s project-based, experiential teaching style. More than trying to get kids to learn a predetermined curriculum, teachers worked to incorporate math, English and science lessons into real-world projects, Grant says.

There was a greenhouse on campus and a recording studio run by LEAF Global. Nonprofit Green Opportunities focused on teaching skills that would translate to jobs in the green economy, as well as cooking skills. Grant collaborated with UNC Asheville to get college-age tutors.

The school hosted a family meal Thanksgiving week, wherein students brought family recipes in, and Edwards, a math teacher at the time, would teach them how to scale them up to feed the whole school, Edwards said at the March board meeting.

The school also held regular cookouts and other “culturally respectful” events that created an atmosphere where Black families felt welcome, further developing trust, says Eric Howard, former lead social worker at RLC.

Grant took students on field trips as much as possible to expose his students to things they would otherwise never have the chance to see.

“We treated our kids like they were at an elite private school,” Grant says.

On Halloween, students visited the City of Asheville’s Riverside Cemetery to get inspiration to write scary stories, says former RLC English teacher Cedric Nash.

Students did science days at Carowinds and Pisgah National Forest. They went to N.C. State University for a future cities competition. They got to experience horse therapy at a farm and learned history at the Vance Birthplace in

Photo courtesy of Grant

Weaverville. Local jazz artists came to the school to teach music to students. Nash wrote a grant and took four students to see jazz great Wynton Marsalis at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, he says.

“They would not have gotten that any other way,” Nash notes. Outside of the public housing communities many of RLC’s students lived in, the Asheville Mall was just about the only place any of them had seen, Grant says.

“The majority of Black citizens at that time were very isolated,” adds Howard, who goes by “Big E.” “People weren’t paying attention to this demographic of kids very much, not only in the district but communitywide.”

The school also provided some structure and was the only one in the district to require uniforms — green polos and khakis.

Randolph operated a suspension center where students who received, for example, a 10-day suspension from AHS or AMS, could go to get a meal, supervision and academic instruction.

FAMILY ATMOSPHERE

Above and beyond academics, the school, which ranged from about

90-125 students, on average, provided extra attention and care to students who may not have felt supported in a larger school setting.

“At the end of the day, Randolph was so important because you had a group and a team of individuals that were so laser focused on this specific group of kids. You gotta love them kids every day, man. Like, you just gotta love them no matter what — no matter what they do or how they behave. You gotta let them know [that you’ll] be there for them no matter what. And so our team did a really good job of that, of loving folks and making sure that they were OK, making sure that they were supported,” Howard says.

Nash, who is now an assistant principal at a high school in Georgia, says relationships are the most important part of education, and he spent a lot of time sitting in living rooms and around the dinner table building connections with families during his time at Randolph.

“It was about caring. As educators, we were not afraid to have hard conversations, get in our car, drive over to Hillcrest, Lee Walker Heights or Erskine, and talk with a parent. If a

CONTINUES ON PAGE 10

parent could not come to us, we went to them,” he says.

Howard, Nash, Fink Adams, Edwards and Randall Johnson, the current director of the Education and Career Academy who used to teach at RLC, all called their time at Randolph some of the best in their teaching career.

Much of that credit goes to their leader, Gordon Grant.

“I love this man. He has been my biggest educational advocate and one of the biggest mentors I’ve had in my career,” says Howard, now the head of Odyssey Charter School in North Asheville.

Howard and Nash both say Grant believed that they would succeed, something they hadn’t gotten much as Black men working in a predominantly white district.

“Randolph taught me a great deal about leadership. I give that to Gordon Grant. I learned a lot from him. I learned a great deal of how to work with parents and students. Be forgiving when you have to be forgiving, be lenient when you have to be lenient. Give second and third chances at times,” says Nash, who grew up in public housing in Asheville before joining the Army.

Grant was able to build such a family atmosphere at Randolph through empowering all staff, including custodians and librarians, to be educators, he says.

The cultural shifts helped the students, too. Disciplinary referrals from teachers at Randolph went from 1,000 in its first year to 100 the next, according to Grant. The school’s dedicated resource officer, initially posted daily at Randolph, went back to the high school in its second year because his services weren’t needed, Grant adds.

“We really reduced it a huge amount, because the kids started to perceive that they were welcomed there, that it was a place where they would be respected and treated well,” Grant says.

“It was a beautiful experience. Most kids chose to be there. Even when they were the only ones wearing uniforms at the bus stop, they still chose Randolph because of the care we provided,” Edwards noted at the March 4 meeting.

AFTER RANDOLPH

Unfortunately, the school didn’t last.

Grant says that at one point, district administrators mentioned to Grant that it was costing the district more per year to operate his school than others, which he didn’t dispute.

“Yes, these kids are going to be expensive. But it’s also going to be expensive if they fail and drop out. You pay one way or the other. I love that bumper sticker that says ‘If you

think education is expensive, try ignorance,’” Grant says.

Meanwhile, Hall Fletcher Elementary, another high-poverty school, had a revolving door of principals at the time, and the decision was made to send Grant there. Former AHS Assistant Principal Fletcher Comer was tapped to replace Grant, but he left the system to move to Alabama after a year, according to Grant.

“I was happy to go, but I was really sorry that that meant, essentially, the dismantling of RLC, which then ran into really hard waters,” Grant remembers, calling the decision to move the program into trailers on Southside, the mold and the eventual dissolution of RLC a “terrible debacle.”

“There was a lot of sadness,” remembers Howard. It was “the worst thing we’ve done,” Edwards told the school board.

Howard and Fink Adams both said the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners at the time promised community members they would get their school back.

But after the district abandoned the trailers, middle school students were sent to the basement at AMS, which didn’t work because the already vulnerable students, isolated from the rest of the school, felt unwanted. Before long, students were reassimilated into general education classrooms.

High school students first wound up in AHS’ ROTC building. That didn’t go great either, as students began to feel like afterthoughts, remembered Edwards.

Due to this confluence of issues, including higher-than-average expenses, Grant’s departure, moving the program into trailers and then into several schools, RLC was ultimately dissolved in 2014.

The district twice tried to revamp an alternative program, including programs called AHA and GRAD. No one who spoke with Xpress for the story remembered what these acronyms stood for, further illustrating how neither ever truly gained traction. Part of the problem was they were housed in various rooms or wings of the high school, remembered Carrie Buchanan, an administrator at AHS charged with overseeing the alternative program at the time.

“They feel like aliens on a campus they should feel a part of,” she noted at the March board meeting.

One parent asked Buchanan what the point of an alternative program was if the kids were still located in the large, chaotic environment of a high school.

Students in the program stuck out among the general high school population, even after their uniforms were abandoned. If they left their designated area, a school administrator was

immediately called, Buchanan said. They were served meals at different times from everyone else in the school, making them feel isolated.

In 2022, the district asked Johnson, the former RLC teacher, to give a new alternative program, the Education and Career Academy, a fresh start. He jumped at the opportunity.

ECA GOALS

In many ways, Johnson hopes to re-create some of that magic from the Randolph days at ECA, and he’s had some success already despite a “skeleton crew,” he says.

Nearing the end of its second school year, the ECA has about 30 students overseen by four teachers, a social worker and two administrators operating in four classrooms and a small common room in the Edington Center. While there is value to the school’s location near several public housing developments on the city’s southside, allowing many students to walk to school, sharing the space with the housing authority and several after-school programs is not ideal, Johnson says.

Students must leave by 1:45 p.m. every day to make space for after-school programs, and even teachers must be out by 2, giving them nowhere to plan their lessons. People looking to meet with Housing Authority staff, turn in forms or pay bills often wander through the halls during the day.

During the school day, the school has access to a gym, but there is no media center or cafeteria, and it doesn’t have a custodian or school resource officer, Johnson says.

Plus, the Housing Authority has capped the program at 30 because of space limitations. Johnson says there could be as many as 200 students who would benefit from the program.

Despite all this, Johnson feels the program has been successful in pro-

NEW OPPORTUNITIES: Led by Director Randall Johnson, front row at far left, students in the Education and Career Academy get to visit places they’ve never been before, such as on this recent trip to the Omni Grove Park Inn. Photo courtesy of ACS

viding students three pillars of service: school credit recovery, promotion to the next grade level and graduation.

Johnson strives to get students prepared for postgraduation job searches so they can immediately be successful in the real world once they’re there.

Part of the success of ECA is its adoption of state minimum requirements for graduation, as RLC adopted years ago. In contrast, AHS requires 28 hours of credits to graduate, while the state requires only 22.

Johnson, who grew up in Asheville’s public housing community, focuses on the “ground zero” needs of students before pushing them academically, he says.

ACS alternative program timeline

• 2003: Randolph Learning Center opens in 2003-04 at 90 Montford Ave.

• 2011: RLC Principal Gordon Grant moves to Hall Fletcher Elementary, RLC loses school status, becomes a program of Asheville High School.

• 2013: RLC moved to modular trailers on Livingston Street as Isaac Dickson Elementary School construction starts. Temporary homes are expected to last for two years.

“You are loved, you are someone to be loved, you are someone to be respected. The people around you are to be loved and respected. Learn all you can, be the best you can. Anything you put your mind to you can do,” he says.

He challenges students, many of whom are homeless or without parents, to ask how each action is helping them move closer to their purpose and how it represents or affects their family, he adds.

His approach has earned the recognition of alternative education administrators around the state, 40 of whom will converge on his Livingston Street school in late

school. The campus was empty after Isaac Dickson Elementary was returned to its Hill Street campus.

April to evaluate his program and reflect on how they can adopt his practices into their own programs, he says.

The biggest need for his program going forward, Johnson says, is additional staff and a dedicated space.

The prospect of a new alternative program getting the support it needs, 10 years after it dissolved one of its most successful programs, gives RLC’s former teachers hope.

“So the babies get to go back home to Montford. I hope they have good leadership to help them thrive. There’s nothing like having a home. I’m glad kids are going to have a home,” Howard says. X

• 2015-22: Alternative program for high school students — called AHA and GRAD — moves from ROTC building to Career and Technical Education building to a small wing near the media center. All homes are expected to be “temporary.”

• January 2016: ACS debates how to use Montford campus, including moving an alternative program there or starting a second middle

• 2014: RLC is dispersed to AHS and Asheville Middle School after black mold is found in trailers, effectively ending the program.

• 2017: Montford North Star Academy opens, partially to address projected enrollment growth. That year would wind up being the high water mark for district enrollment.

• 2017: Asheville City Schools earns worst-in-the-state achievement gap designation, launches equity initiative that in hindsight proves largely ineffective. (Xpress coverage of the achievement gap can be found here: avl.mx/4f3 and community response here: avl.mx/5ua)

• 2022: ACS asks Randall Johnson to start the Education and Career Academy, to be housed at the Housing Authority of the City of Asheville’s Arthur R. Edington Education and Career Center on Livingston Street. The building also hosts several after-school programs, a community farm and housing authority offices.

• March 2024: Asheville City Board of Education votes to close MNSA after the school year, partially because of shrinking enrollment and partially to find a home for ECA.

Sustaining community

A conversation with Asheville City Council candidate Charles ‘CJ’ Domingo

Editor’s note: As part of Xpress’ monthlong Sustainability Series, we reached out to all candidates running for Buncombe County Board of Commissioners as well as Asheville City Council. Conversations with those who participated will appear throughout our four April issues.

“I’ve almost certainly spent more time on the ground cleaning up the waste and garbage of the unhoused crisis than any other candidate,” Charles “CJ” Domingo asserted to Xpress during the March primary. Domingo, a former city employee who now serves as operations supervisor at Securitas Loomis, placed sixth in the race, earning 8% of the overall vote. Come November, this first-time Asheville City Council candidate will be vying for one of three open seats.

Asheville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Council chambers located on the second floor of City Hall. The elected body approves the

city’s annual budget and determines the tax rate, among other responsibilities. To learn more about Council’s role and authority, visit avl.mx/dkd.

Xpress: What misconceptions do community members have about the role of Asheville City Council?

Domingo: There’s lots of little pockets of misunderstanding that I’ve seen during the campaign, but the one that stuck out to me the most was regarding districts. I’ve encountered many locals who believe that we have Council districts. It’s understandable since that was in the news back in 2018-19 before the city amended the charter, but I found it surprising how many folks have this misconception.

What can local leaders do to promote thoughtful community dialogue about complex and difficult topics such as the opioid crisis, crime, housing and health care?

Fundamentally, these topics strike to the heart of not just our community

but the reason folks gather to make communities in the first place. If we could have frank, honest and vulnerable discussions, I believe that the vast majority of us are on board with many of the same goals — we want to heal the hurt and halt the harm. We don’t want people dying prematurely, we don’t want to live in fear. We want people to have a place they call home, we want help for the sick, we want people to have the chance to thrive. If we talk to our fellow Ashevilleans, we will realize we all want to go to essentially the same places, but we don’t agree on how to get our community there.

The problems we face have national roots (similar issues can be found all over the country) with local factors (unique extra challenges but also special opportunities to take bites out of the problems). These are multifaceted issues, but the conversations to solve them can be very different, depending on where it’s happening and who is having it. The discoveries and insights one group makes might not get shared. Unfortunately, when the truth is siloed, we can find ourselves trying to solve the jigsaw without all of the pieces.

So, if there is to be meaningful progress toward solutions, I would encourage local leaders to promote cross-pollination. We need to reach across the gaps between neighborhoods, across industries and between social groups to talk to folks older and younger than ourselves and ask what they can teach us. When we can bring everyone’s expertise and multiply it through the community, it will enrich the conversation and help all of us to better understand where we are and which steps we can take to achieve our mutual goals. If we have these conversations with

humility and honesty, we will see that even if the path our community takes is not our personal ideal, it can still be acceptable because in this journey we care most about the destination.

What can the city and county do to help small businesses thrive?

Small businesses depend on having a thriving middle class that has the time, money and access to come patronize their establishments. Making progress on affordability, promoting good work opportunities, safeguarding infrastructure and ensuring transit options will provide fertile ground for small businesses to thrive. To ensure that we can have a variety of small businesses, local governments will need to play the role of a gardener inasmuch as discouraging the weeds (e.g., large brands) from choking out opportunities. Continuing the analogy, we want to be wary of monoculture — our tourism and health care industries are what we’re known for, and we’re blessed to have them, but we must not sacrifice a healthy ecosystem (both figuratively and literally) to placate their demands.

If you could give raises to one city department, which department would you like to see receive it and why?

Having worked for the city and knowing how hard each department strives to do their best for the people of Asheville, I find it nigh on impossible to answer this question in a direct way. I would instead seek to invest in the continued education and growth of the employees in public-facing departments to help them as they serve to make Asheville a place worth living, not just visiting.

To learn more about Domingo visit avl.mx/dkh.

CHARLES “CJ” DOMINGO

Sustainable wages

Community colleges collaborate on program to teach new workers job skills

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

jmcguire@mountainx.com

Companies looking to hire skilled workers in Western North Carolina don’t care where the workers come from, notes Emily Nicholson, executive director of the Land of Sky P20 Council, which fosters collaboration between employers and local colleges.

“They’re bringing the workforce in from everywhere,” she says. “To both employees and employers, the county lines that technical colleges traditionally cover are invisible.”

With that in mind, the P20

Council has partnered with A-B Tech and Blue Ridge Community College on Project Collaborate. The three-year program, funded with a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, helps provide students with training in high-demand fields. The goal is for

students to have the skills needed to earn a sustainable wage.

Each school received about $550,000, which they are using for tuition, supplies, equipment, faculty pay and more. The Land of Sky P20 Council is using the remaining money on administrative costs and to hire a person to oversee the grant.

“This is the biggest grant that has been co-awarded to both of our community colleges in the Land of Sky region,” Nicholson notes. “The colleges realize the importance of collaborating on things like this because it does make them more competitive in the lens of funders like DOL. Whether it’s public or private funds, we are definitely seeing a path where regionalism is prioritized as opposed to institutions, and that’s a big deal.”

A-B Tech’s traditional service area includes Buncombe and Madison counties while Blue Ridge serves

Henderson and Transylvania counties. “But the world just doesn’t operate that way anymore,” says Scott Queen, BRCC’s vice president of economic and workforce development.

The grant was approved in 2022, but funds didn’t become available until last summer due to the grinding gears of the federal government.

A-B Tech began enrolling students in certificate programs this semester, with plans to serve about 100 eventually. Blue Ridge has seen about 30 students enroll in its apprenticeship program, with plans to serve about 180 students over the three years.

“Our region is one of the most, if not the most, expensive places to live in North Carolina, but that doesn’t always mean that folks are obtaining jobs that pay those wages in order to afford to live here,” Nicholson says. “So part of our goal is to not just listen to employers about what

SPARKS FLY: A-B Tech offers a certification program in welding, a skill that is in high demand among WNC employers. Photo courtesy of A-B Tech

their needs are for new employees, but to really seek that out with our training providers, in this case, the community colleges.”

WORKERS IN HIGH DEMAND

A-B Tech decided to spend the grant money on nine of its curriculum certificate programs, which are short-term training options designed to help students get started in new careers quickly and that can typically be completed in two semesters. The programs include air conditioning, welding, robotic welding and mechatronics.

“That’s where jobs are,” explains Dana Moore, dean of engineering, transportation and technology. “That’s where the demand is. We’re having trouble with employers hiring people for these jobs [who] don’t really have any experience or any knowledge. This way, we’re able to get them the skills they need. Like in welding, there’s different ways you weld different materials, so it’s critical that those students know how to do that.”

Most of the grant money will be used to update equipment for training, with the rest going to help students with the costs of tuition, books and fees, she says. The school began enrolling students in the nine programs this semester and hopes to have 100 participants by the end of the fall semester.

For the first batch of students, A-B Tech identified those with a financial aid need who could benefit from money for tuition and books.

Moore says the partnership with Blue Ridge has been smooth.

“Although we’re not working directly with them, we really like being able to collaborate with other colleges,” she says. “It’s sort of a new thing. We’re facing the same challenges as far as getting students and getting them trained and out in the workforce.”

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING

While A-B Tech is using its money on semester-based certificates, Blue Ridge is focusing on its apprenticeship program on skilled trades such as electrical, advanced manufacturing and construction. Under the program, students get classroom instruction as well as experience working at local businesses that partner with the school.

“The goal of this whole grant is to train people with the skill set where they can earn a sustainable wage,” says Scott Queen, vice president of economic and workforce develop-

ment. “And so the good thing about [apprentice programs] is that, by definition, they’re employed.”

Apprenticeship programs can run anywhere from six months to two years. Many students will complete the first tier of an apprenticeship, which is more foundational and basic, and move on to a second tier that is more specialized.

Some of the money is being used to pay tuition costs for students who need assistance (most North Carolina residents who graduated high school within the last 18 months get free tuition to community colleges), as well as for books and supplies.

“What we try to do, the best we can, is look for individuals from underrepresented populations, like for example, women in nontraditional careers like construction or welding,” he explains. “Our ultimate goal is to make those funds go as far as possible and impact as many people as possible. The great thing about this grant is that it’s open to anyone.”

The grant money also has paid for a full-time faculty member who teaches construction and helps recruit students to the school’s construction pathway. Additional money has been spent on table saws, hand tools and other classroom equipment.

The college is planning a market ing push in the summer and fall to get more apprenticeship participa tion from people who aren’t current BRCC students.

“There’s a skills gap with the trades, and there’s unfortunately just a negative stigma that you’re better off with a four-year education,” he explains. “At some point, if we don’t get more intentional about recruiting young people into these positions, we’re all going to be sitting around not able to get our air conditioning and our power working.”

JUST THE START

Like A-B Tech’s Moore, Queen sees the value in different schools coordinating their efforts. The two colleges, along with Haywood Community College, already have applied for another Labor Department grant, Strengthening Community College Training.

Nicholson acknowledges $1.4 million is a drop in the bucket when it comes to meeting WNC’s employee training needs. But she is excited that it already has allowed the two colleges to bolster their offerings and help students.

“This is sizable enough where we’re able to check the box of really helping our employers out. We were thrilled to be up there at the million-dollar mark.”

Sustaining community

A conversation with Asheville City Council candidate Tod Leaven

Editor’s note: As part of Xpress’ monthlong Sustainability Series, we reached out to all candidates running for Buncombe County Board of Commissioners as well as Asheville City Council. Conversations with those who participated will appear throughout our four April issues.

“I have a profound appreciation for our current unhoused crisis, as my twin sister died on the streets of Asheville, being unhoused for years,” Tod Leaven told Xpress during the March primary. Leaven, an attorney and a combat veteran of the U.S. Army, placed fifth, earning 12% of the overall vote. Come November, this first-time Asheville City Council candidate will be vying for one of three open seats.

Asheville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Council chambers located on the second floor of City Hall. The elected body approves the city’s annual budget and determines

the tax rate, among other responsibilities. To learn more about Council’s role and authority, visit avl.mx/dkd.

Xpress: What misconceptions do community members have about the role of Asheville City Council?

Leaven: A great analogy is that Asheville City Council is similar to the board of directors of a $240 million company. Because Asheville has such a large number of nonprofits, it may be easy to use a nonprofit company as an example. Many community members believe City Council’s role is similar to the role of an executive director — in charge of the company’s employees and the daily running of the organization. This would be the role of our city manager.

Another misconception is that a Council member changing their position on any given issue is a sign of weakness or selling out. As with a company’s board member, a City Council member has a duty to the

betterment of the city over the betterment of themselves. Even when what is best for the city contradicts a Council member’s own envisioned goals, that Council member must go with what is best for the city.

What can local leaders do to promote thoughtful community dialogue about complex and difficult topics such as the opioid crisis, crime, housing and health care?

A sustainable community needs to trust that its leaders are neither myopic nor rigid. When leaders believe that they alone have all of the answers, the community will be less apt to engage in thoughtful dialogue. To combat this, local leaders should get outside of their comfort zones and ideological bubbles and promote open and honest engagement, even across party lines, and then be open and empathetic to the community responses. To build trust, local leaders need to own their mistakes and be willing to adapt and change; the typical blame game rarely leads to solutions, and it often fans resentment.

Where some consultants can be necessary, spending substantial funds on out-of-town consultants and ignoring our local talent not only cuts against thoughtful community dialogue, but it also wastes a lot of money that could be spent elsewhere.

What can the city and county do to help small businesses thrive?

There are a host of things the city and county could do to help small businesses thrive, but for a start, the city and county can simply do their jobs. If the city could take a breath, refocus upon its core services (such as public safety, infrastructure, water, public transportation, etc.) and make it easier to build affordable housing,

then small businesses would be free to focus on doing their own jobs instead of having to worry about crime, cleanliness, workforce housing, water, parking, etc. An integral part of sustaining community is for everyone to be trusted to do their part — in order for us all to thrive, we have to be able to trust that our local government will uphold their end of the bargain.

If you could give raises to one city department, which department would you like to see receive it and why?

Unfortunately, this question can pit city departments against each other. I can say that I would absolutely not call for City Council to get raises, especially when so many city employees are underpaid. I understand that City Council is discussing giving itself a raise, but I do not support this.

To learn more about Leaven, visit avl.mx/dkr.

— Xpress Staff X

TOD LEAVEN

Conserving Carolina seeks photo contest entries

Conserving Carolina’s fifth annual Habitat at Home spring photo contest has launched and runs through Wednesday, May 15.

Conserving Carolina is looking for photos that showcase ways that people are restoring natural habitat — such as native plant gardens or bird boxes — as well as photos of animals spotted around homes and other buildings.

Rose Lane, communications and marketing director, says, “The contest is a way to inspire more people to restore wildlife habitat where they live. That’s important because animals need a lot more habitat than they can find in parks and nature preserves. We’ve seen major declines in insect and bird populations because they don’t have enough habitat — and that affects all other wildlife. So if you restore some natural habitat at your place, you’re doing something important for nature. And you can see the results.”

To enter the contest, share your photo or video on Facebook and/or Instagram as a public post with the hashtag #habitatathome2024 or email entries to rose@conservingcarolina. org. You may enter as many times as you want. To be eligible for prizes, photos must be taken in Western North Carolina or Upstate South Carolina. The grand prize is a professional landscape consultation by Mark Byington of Byington Landscape Architects.

For more information, visit avl.mx/dk3.

Hendo Earth Fest slated for April 20

The second annual Hendo Earth Fest takes place Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., in downtown Hendersonville.

Local organizations will educate, entertain and raise awareness on a number of environmental issues. There will be family-friendly activities, music and exhibits.

For more information, visit avl.mx/cgi.

Please Bug Me puts insects first

Please Bug Me is a series of events at Black Mountain Center for the Arts aimed at raising awareness

about the importance of insects in our ecosystem and the need to protect them. Events throughout April include a gallery exhibit, educational events and a hands-on field trip for second-grade classes.

In addition to the exhibit, there will be a gallery reception and free educational presentation by Lenny Lampel at 5 p.m. Friday, April 19. Lampel, natural resources supervisor with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s Division of Nature Preserves and Natural Resources, will provide insights into the importance of these creatures in our ecosystem. Attendees will receive a free white oak seedling and milkweed seeds for their gardens.

For more information, visit avl.mx/8cz.

Plant and garden sale

Black Mountain Beautification Committee is hosting a plant and garden sale to fund its efforts to keep Black Mountain beautiful. The spring garden sale will run Friday, May 17, 3-7 p.m., and Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., in Black Mountain town square parking lot. Many nurseries and garden shows will have green things for sale.

For more information, visit avl.mx/dki.

Specialty license plate sales top $570,000

Sales of the Blue Ridge Parkway specialty license plate in 2023 were the highest in 10 years, raising $570,000 for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.

“We are incredibly grateful to receive support for the parkway from so many North Carolina drivers,” Carolyn Ward, CEO of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, said in a media release. “Purchasing the tag is an easy way to help the national park and also show your love for this amazing place to play and explore in your own backyard.”

The specialty plate fee is $30, of which $20 helps fund key improve-

ments along the parkway, including repairs at trails, campgrounds and picnic areas. Proceeds also support projects such as wildlife studies, historic preservation and educational programs. Personalized plates are available for $60. The parkway tag can be purchased for cars and motorcycles.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/dkg.

Green Built Alliance to host Earth Day 5K

The nonprofit Green Built Alliance will host its second annual Earth Day 5K on Saturday, April 20. The Earth Day 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run start and finish at The Outpost adjacent to Carrier Park. Both races begins at 10 a.m.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 18

BEAUTY ALL AROUND: Cathy Bester won the 2023 Conserving Carolina photo contest with this image of a ruby-crowned kinglet.

Grey Eagle Taqueria food truck and French Broad River Brewery will have food and drinks available to purchase at the event. The EcoGroove Collective will perform a live set. And runners can experience a sauna and cold plunge session courtesy of Drip Sauna.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/dkj.

Seed exchange planned in Waynesville

A community seed exchange will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 20, at The Lineside, 58 Commerce St., in Waynesville. A seed exchange allows people from the community to swap seed packets with their neighbors before the spring planting season.

There also will be a raffle for those who bring nonperishable food items that will be donated to Feeding the Multitude in Canton. Three food items gets you one raffle ticket.

Volunteers from the NC Extension Master Gardeners will be on-hand to answer gardening questions about vegetables, flowers, fruits, and landscaping. There also will be a children’s seed-planting activity.

Conservancy saves 29 acres at Full Sun Farm

The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy completed a conservation easement permanently protecting 29 farmland acres at Full Sun Farm in Sandy Mush in northwestern Buncombe County. The land includes prime soils of national and local importance. The farm is amid other land conserved by SAHC and Buncombe County. The easement was funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Services’ Agricultural Conservation Easement Program – Agricultural Land Easements, Buncombe County and The Biltmore Co. Full Sun Farm is a family farm selling directly to the community through CSA shares, tailgate markets and more.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/dkk.

Solar program benefits MountainTrue

Sugar Hollow Solar set up a referral program to benefit local environmental nonprofit MountainTrue. Through Monday, Sept. 30, for every new customer referral that signs a solar contract with Sugar Hollow

Solar, the company will donate $50 to MountainTrue to help fund its work protecting the environment and provide the referrer with $250. Referrers can have Sugar Hollow Solar contribute the full $300 referral benefit to MountainTrue.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/dkl

Old Fort gets 10 more miles of trails

The G5 Trail Collective, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service in North Carolina, announced 10 miles of new trail construction in the Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest surrounding Old Fort. Construction will begin immediately on this next phase of the 42-mile trail expansion planned for the Old Fort area. Six trails are set to open by the end of the year, three of which will be open to multiuse from equestrians, mountain bikers and hikers. The majority of the trails expand on the Gateway Trail System. Since early 2022, the U.S. Forest Service and G5 Trail Collective have completed 10 miles of trails and added two parking areas.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/dkm.

Company donates soil analysis to park

Microbial Insights Inc., a leader in microbial testing, has donated over $90,000 worth of microbial analyses to support Discover Life in America’s research initiatives within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The project is studying the park’s soils and its interactions within various ecosystems as well as its changes over time.

Soil samples were collected from 22 locations across the park, ranging from grassy balds, hardwood forests, spruce/fir forests, caves, roadside locations and native grasslands that encompass various watersheds.

Discover Life in America staff and interns collaborated with Microbial Insights and microbiology professor Sean O’Connell and his students from Western Carolina University.

Discover Life in America is a nonprofit working on the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory. Its mission is to catalog all living species within the park. To date, the group has helped to add 12,083 species to the inventory of life in the park, including 1,079 that are new to science, according to a media release.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/dko.

— Lisa Allen  X

Sustaining community

A conversation with Asheville City Council candidate Roberto ‘Bo’ Hess

Editor’s note: As part of Xpress’ monthlong Sustainability Series, we reached out to all candidates running for Buncombe County Board of Commissioners as well as Asheville City Council. Conversations with those who participated will appear throughout our four April issues.

“My background as a social worker, mental health clinician, community advocate, addiction specialist, law enforcement trainer and professor at WCU equips me with expertise into Asheville’s critical social issues,” Roberto “Bo” Hess told Xpress during the March primary. Hess placed fourth, earning 14% of the overall vote. Come November, this first-time Asheville City Council candidate will be vying for one of three open seats.

Asheville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Council chambers located on the second floor of City Hall. The elected body approves the city’s annual budget and determines the tax rate, among other responsibilities. To learn more about Council’s role and authority, visit avl.mx/dkd.

Xpress: What misconceptions do community members have about the role of Asheville City Council?

Hess: A common misconception about Asheville City Council is that members are distant from everyday community concerns. In truth, Council members are community members too, deeply invested in Asheville’s well-being. My commitment is to guide constituents to the right resources, addressing their needs effectively. With my background as a social worker and therapist, I possess unique skills to navigate various systems and advocate for solutions. I pledge to be a

proactive, empathetic link between the city and its people, ensuring that every voice is heard and every concern is addressed. Electing me means choosing a Council member who not only understands the official duties but also prioritizes the real-life needs of our community, striving to make Asheville a place where everyone can thrive.

What can local leaders do to promote thoughtful community dialogue about complex and difficult topics such as the opioid crisis, crime, housing and health care?

As a leader, I am committed to engaging our community in meaningful dialogue on vital issues like the opioid crisis, crime, housing, and health care. I believe in the power of an engaged community to drive progress and change. Here’s my action plan:

• Support local journalism: Advocate for in-depth local reporting to inform and educate.

• Mobile storytelling and listening events: Facilitate shared stories and perspectives across Asheville.

• Community art initiatives: Promote art as a tool for expression and discussion on complex issues.

• Accessible town hall meetings: Hold regular, inclusive meetings in person and online.

• Online engagement portal: Host a space for community feedback and ideas, like the one on my campaign website.

I believe that leaders should be advocates who promote opportunities for a connected community. A leader should empower others to share their stories so that we know who we’re working for each and every day.

What can the city and county do to help small businesses thrive?

To champion the success of small businesses in Asheville, city and county efforts must ensure safe, vibrant communities and robust support systems. Encouraging safe streets creates an environment where businesses, residents and visitors thrive. By actively promoting minority business ownership and simplifying bureaucratic processes, we can create a dynamic business landscape.

Maintaining cleanliness in our streets and public areas enhances Asheville’s charm, making it more inviting for everyone. Addressing homelessness, addiction and mental health with empathy and effectiveness not only aids our most vulnerable but also stabilizes the community for business growth.

Crucially, affordable housing for workers is essential to sustaining our local economy. Ensuring that employ-

ees can live in the city where they work increases their quality of life and supports business retention and growth. The city and county must work together to increase housing affordability, making Asheville a place where small businesses and their employees can flourish.

If you could give raises to one city department, which department would you like to see receive it and why?

I would prioritize our first responders, in particular the Asheville Fire Department. These individuals have their boots on the ground in our community every single day, providing essential services to our most vulnerable populations. The value these firefighters provide for our community and the risks they are assuming should be reflected by a living wage that keeps up with the standards in 2024. Adequate compensation helps in recruiting and retaining the best professionals, which directly contributes to the well-being and safety of Asheville.

Moreover, reevaluating benefits, post-employment benefits and prioritizing health and safety is essential. We know that firefighters face disproportionate rates of cancer, and yet currently members hired after 2012 are left in limbo without postemployment benefits between the age of retirement (around 50) and the age they qualify for Medicare (65). Our firefighters, like all city employees, deserve to live comfortably in the city they serve and protect.

To learn more about Hess, visit avl.mx/dkf.

— Xpress Staff X

ROBERTO “BO” HESS

Council weighs tax increase, budget cuts to fund pay raises

Raise taxes, make cuts, use funds from the city’s rainy day fund or any combination thereof.

Those were the choices laid before Asheville City Council during an April 9 budget work session after members learned that a 4.11% pay raise for city employees next fiscal year would drive the city’s undesignated general fund balance below its preferred minimum.

According to Just Economics of Western North Carolina, a single person working full time in Buncombe County needs to make $22.10 per hour to afford basic expenses in 2024. Some city employees make less than that.

During the work session, city Finance Director Tony McDowell explained that city staff recommends a 4.11% raise for all city employees for the upcoming budget cycle, which would bring the lowest-paid employees from $37,960 to $39,520 per year. That pay rate falls in line with Just Economics’ living wage pledge, a tiered certification that allows employers to remain in the Living Wage Program if they agree to pay a $19 per hour rate while committing to annual increases toward the new $22.10 rate. Employee compensation makes up 62% of the city’s general fund budget. City Manager Debra Campbell said that the pay raises were crucial for the city to continue recruiting and retaining staff across all departments.

Council also reviewed other types of pay increases, including flat rate payments for all city employees regardless of position, and a hefty 21% raise for all employees to meet this year’s full living wage, but McDowell pointed out that those options were either too costly or caused compression issues, which occurs when there’s little difference in pay between employees, regardless of differences in their respective responsibilities, knowledge or experience.

PAY UP: Employee compensation makes up 62% of the city’s general fund budget. City Manager Debra Campbell said that proposed pay raises were crucial for the city to continue recruiting and retaining staff across all departments. Graphic courtesy of the City of Asheville

City staff also recommended increases to city employees’ health benefits by $2.1 million, of which roughly $775,000 would come from the city’s general fund. Raising salaries by 4.11% and covering the increasing cost of employee health care amount to $4.6 million. Those costs and other expenses would pull a total of $8.1 million from the city’s general fund.

That level of spending, said McDowell, would put the city’s undesignated fund balance below its desired 15% of the fund’s total budget. Essentially, the general fund is the city’s checkbook, which is primarily funded by property taxes and fees. Other money, such as from specific project funding, grants or debt, is kept in different accounts.

Lunch & Learn

Asheville has maintained the 15% undesignated fund balance policy for the last several years to cover unforeseen revenue fluctuations and unanticipated expenditures. The N.C. Local Government Commission recommends that municipalities maintain at least 8% of the adopted general fund budget as undesignated funds, but there is no state minimum requirement.

“Hopefully, after we make decisions around compensation, the fund balance might come in around 13% or 14%,” said McDowell.

Dipping into the city’s undesignated fund balance drew concern from several members of Council.

“That gets me a little bit worried because one of the rules is don’t use your fund balance for recurring expenses because you essentially cannot count on that [next year],” said Mayor Esther Manheimer. “That makes me concerned about overall sustainability.”

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“I mean, I’m not sure what the solution is, because I’m just getting these numbers. But I’m concerned that we are dipping into fund balance for payroll,” added Council member Sage Turner “Say we do it,” Council member Maggie Ullman posed. “What do we do next year?”

One tool that Council could use to pay for the raises is a property tax increase. That idea was also unpopular among Council members, though some acknowledged that they had few options.

Campbell said that she and city staffers were not recommending a tax increase on top of the recently approved increases for city fees and charges; a $150 million in general obligation bonds proposal that would impact taxpayers over the next four years; and the possibility of a business improvement district that would tax property owners located in downtown Asheville.

One factor that might help is the fact that Buncombe County will be reappraising all properties in the county in 2025 to update property taxes. Manheimer pointed out that the likely property value increase will generate more revenue for the city without having to raise the tax rate.

“We believe, to maintain employee morale, to retain the employees that we have, we have got to provide a salary increase. Obviously, it’s not as much as we would like. It’s not as much as we did last year, but it’s what we think we can afford with the use of fund balance,” Campbell maintained. “And no, it isn’t best practice. But it’s all we got.”

The Tuesday work session was the last of five sessions and other budget-related meetings since Council began its budget process in December. Campbell will present the proposed budget to Council at its meeting Tuesday, May 14. A public hearing on the budget is slated for Tuesday, May 28, with budget adoption scheduled for Tuesday, June 11.

— Brooke Randle

Buncombe teachers seek better pay, bigger voice

As budget season ramps up for local school boards and the county commission, teacher advocates are doing what they can to ensure educators are not forgotten.

The Buncombe County Association of Educators delivered a three-pronged request to the Buncombe County Board of Education at its April 11 meeting that had the support of nearly 1,200 teachers and more than 100 community allies.

“Everyone in this room is here because we believe in public education as a tenet of our democracy and a tool for ensuring liberty and prosperity. We are presenting this petition as a tool to reinforce and strengthen the belief in public schools,” said Samantha Gallman, a teacher at Owen High School, during public comment.

The petition outlined three requests of the school board and Board of Commissioners: Fund meaningful raises for all staff, prioritize staff time to set them up for success and fund exceptional children, mental health and behavior support programs.

BCAE is asking that classified staff — those without a teaching certificate like custodians, bus drivers and other student support employees — get paid a living wage as defined by Just Economics of Western North Carolina or a 20% raise, whichever is greater. Just Economics raised its living wage to $22.10 per hour in 2024.

For certified staff, including teachers, BCAE is looking for a 10% raise in every category, according to the petition. Maci Brown, a first-year teacher at Owen High School, said she loves teaching and wants to be able to welcome new colleagues into the fold who won’t have to work multiple jobs to survive.

“I truly want to be excited and hopeful about the road ahead. I want to see new teachers be able to come into the profession and not have to worry about being able to afford to live. We’re going to lose people. We already are losing people. How many teachers do you know who left for better-paying jobs, teachers who love teaching and who are rock stars at what they do and who have to make that impossible, impossible decision to stop doing what they love?” she said.

BCAE also is asking for increased funding for exceptional-children programs and mental health supports at each school. It wants to increase pay for all exceptional-children staff by $2,000 a year and increase those staffed positions by 10% districtwide, according to the petition.

PROSPECTIVE PARTNERS: Public education advocates lobbied the Buncombe County Board of Education at the April 11 school board meeting to partner with the Buncombe County Association of Educators in asking county commissioners for adequate funding to pay staff and fund programs. Photo by Greg Parlier

The petition asks the district to base a full-time therapist at each school to ensure all students have access to mental health services. There’s also a request to double behavior support staff by hiring 13 additional specialists and assistants and establish a goal of eventually having at least one full-time behavior specialist at each school.

“Overall, we need enough staff in the building to meet these very important needs, and our educators are drowning,” noted Shanna Peele, a special education teacher for BCS and president of the BCAE.

The advocacy group also is looking for workplace improvements. Codi Edenfield-Estes, who teaches at Oakley Elementary, said the requirements of the job, including paperwork, meetings, conferences, professional development, dealing with student behavior issues and more have ballooned far beyond what’s possible to complete during working hours.

“In order to meet my students’ needs, I need more time. We need productive workloads that are student-centered, not paperwork-centered. Our entire school culture needs to be refocused so that schools can be functional, healthy environments for us all to work in to learn in,” she said.

Included in the petition, she recommended the district hire a full-time substitute for every school, a “super sub” who is familiar with the teachers and school culture. Teachers should

have five additional workdays that are free of mandatory professional development and meetings, with classified staff who are also paid to work those days to help the teachers, she said.

Additionally, three planning periods per week should remain free of mandatory school-directed meetings so teachers can focus on preparing for their students, she added.

“All of these recommendations are pretty much free and just take a recentering toward working conditions and rights. We need to feel more respect from you and our leaders. We need more pay, but what I want more is more respect. In order for us to do a good job this needs to be a good job,” EdenfieldEstes said.

CALENDAR CHANGES

Later in the meeting, the school board passed an amended calendar to add one teacher workday in between the first and second semesters, as had been previously requested by teachers. As a result, instructional assistants were slated to miss a day of pay, since they are not typically paid on teacher workdays, said BCS Superintendent Rob Jackson Therefore, the district amended the calendar for instructional assistants as well, ultimately adding 2.5 days of paid work for instructional assistants and all classified staff, Jackson said.

Next school year, hourly classified staff will have the opportunity to work

up to 209.5 days total, the most since 2010, when they worked on a 215-day schedule. That was reduced to 203 days in 2015 for budget reasons and adjusted again in 2021 to 207 days, Jackson said.

This year’s changes will cost the district an extra $124,525 over last year, Jackson noted. Buncombe County Schools had a budget of $358 million in 2023-24, according to its website.

The change was prompted by a teacher who sat on the district calendar committee, Jackson said. Some teachers, like Elliot Lunsford, a teacher at Owen High School, said teacher voices should be incorporated into district decisions more often.

“When teachers are paid like professionals and when their voices are consulted in matters related to improving our schools, then they will stay. Teachers are leaving, and while pay is a huge reason, so is valuing our input as professionals,” he said.

Gallman echoed those sentiments in her plea for the school board to build a partnership with BCAE as the district builds its budget for next school year and makes its funding request to the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners in May.

“We know better than anyone else. We are on the front line. Incorporate our feedback, utilize our organization, partner with us, and reclaim the promise of public education,” Gallman said.

— Greg Parlier

CIBO hears homelessness strategy critiques

Local government’s previous approaches to addressing homelessness have been largely ineffectual, according to a panel of speakers at the April 5 Council of Independent Business Owners meeting. CIBO is a membership of local business owners and hosts monthly speakers.

Micheal Woods, executive director of Western Carolina Rescue Ministries; Rick Freeman, president of the Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods; and Scott Rogers, executive director of Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry, shared concerns about shelters, harm reduction strategies and the continuum of care (a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development program that guides how a community addresses homelessness) at a breakfast gathering of about 50 guests at UNC Asheville’s Sherrill Center.

‘CAPACITY AND COMPETENCY’

In 2022, Dogwood Health Trust hired Washington, D.C.-based National Alliance to End Homelessness to develop a report about reducing homelessness in the city and Buncombe County. The report is available at avl.mx/ccw.

Among many suggestions in its January 2023 report, NAEH recommended opening a low-barrier shelter, also called a high-access shelter, as a key strategy to halving the homeless population in Asheville by 2025. City and county staff are researching how to implement a low-barrier shelter that would serve groups that aren’t served by existing shelter options, such as people with pets or mothers with sons over the age of 13.

However, Woods questioned whether the community really needs additional shelter beds. “Our problem right now isn’t a capacity issue, per se,” he told the audience. “If there were 300 more shelter beds available, you’re still going to have people who are not going to access shelter.”

While the number of people seeking access to shelter on any given night varies, Asheville’s annual 2023 Pointin-Time Count found 573 sheltered and unsheltered homeless people. The 2024 Point-in-Time Count was conducted in January, and results will be released this spring. The NAEH report recommended providing an additional 95 shelter beds in the community, in addition to increasing affordable housing options for people.

Some people may be afraid or unwilling to stay in a shelter due to experienc-

TALKING BUSINESS: A panel featuring, from left, Micheal Woods, executive director of Western Carolina Rescue Ministries; Rick Freeman, president of the Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods; and Scott Rogers, executive director of Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry, spoke about homelessness at the Council of Independent Business Owners’ April 5 meeting. Photo by Jessica Wakeman

ing mental distress, Woods said. But others “are choosing not to be there because there are rules.” Shelters like those at WCRM and ABCCM have curfews, require sobriety and encourage clients to participate in ministry services. Typically in low-barrier shelters, sobriety is not required to access a bed. However, weapons and drug or alcohol usage are prohibited on-site.

Rogers implored the community to support existing organizations like his, which he argues have the skill set and capacity to address homelessness, mental health and substance use. He discussed ABCCM’s support programs, such as Costello House, a recovery living ministry for civilian men, and Veterans Restoration Quarters, which serves veterans. “If your capacity and competency don’t match up, things go south and sideways very, very quickly,” he said, adding the community needs to “support programs that have outcomes that are demonstrating what a difference that they’re making.”

Rogers also referred to criminal behavior. “Another lesson we’ve learned over my almost 40 years of doing this is that if you support lawlessness, what will follow is the fruit of organized lawlessness,” he said. “There has to be safety and healthy boundaries for everybody so that everybody thrives.” He spoke approvingly of the community paramedics’ co-responder partnership between the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office and Buncombe County Emergency Medical Services, which sends law enforcement alongside a trained mental health clinician for certain calls. Rogers said the community “can work with law enforcement with intentional outreach and with finding solutions for [homeless] folks that work.”

Lastly, Rogers told the audience, “We need to ask the city and the county leaders to identify how much money they’re going to actually put into the solution.”

HARM REDUCTION

During the panel, Woods said he is “against some of the harm reduction policies that have been adopted here in Buncombe County.” Woods was referring to the county’s needle exchange program and distribution of naloxone, which reverses overdoses.

The county Department of Health and Human Services and the nonprofit Western North Carolina AIDS Project operate syringe exchanges and supply naloxone at 40 Coxe Ave. and 554 Fairview Road, respectively. The nonprofit Steady Collective also offers syringe exchange and naloxone at various locations during the week.

“The thought process is that if they’re using clean needles, they’re not going to catch hepatitis C, and they’re not going to catch HIV,” Woods explained. “But it’s OK for them to overdose. I have issues with a community that enables people by giving them needles and Narcan [a brand name for naloxone]. Let’s deal with the issue. Let’s help people; let’s not OK it.”

Buncombe County had 151 deaths from drug overdose in 2022.

Both hepatitis C, which impacts the liver, and HIV are viruses that spread through blood and can be transmitted by sharing needles used for injectable drugs. According to the NCDHHS Opioid and Substance Use Action Plan Data Dashboard, Buncombe County diagnosed nine new acute hepatitis C infections in 2020, the latest data available. The NCDHHS dashboard removed naloxone reversals from its

dataset in May, stating it is “evaluating” the quality of these measures.

Woods described how WCRM residents will roll a magnetic sweeper around the shelter property “just to pick up needles.“ He said, “We can’t be OK with that. That’s being OK with people being in body bags.”

In an emailed statement in response to Woods’ comments, BCDHHS spokesperson Stacey Wood wrote that harm reduction strategies “are part of a broader approach that includes prevention, treatment and recovery services.

Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shown that people who frequent harm reduction programs are about three times more likely to stop using drugs than those who don’t use the programs.

“By prioritizing people-centered services and adopting a multifaceted approach, we can decrease overdose fatalities, life-threatening infections, and costly chronic diseases associated with drug use.”

‘IT’S NOT GOING TO BE FUN’

While Woods and Rogers work day to day on homelessness, Freeman sees it from a layman’s perspective. He got involved with the Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods, an advocacy group for Asheville’s neighborhoods, “to get some help on topics that are very important to my neighborhood,” he explained. Compass Point Village, the permanent supportive housing developed by Homeward Bound in a former Days Inn, “is more or less a neighbor of me,” he said.

Freeman became CAN’s president and was appointed to the Homeless Initiative Advisory Committee, which manages the continuum of care. (A community has to have a CoC to receive federal funding to address homelessness.) From HIAC, “I could see that we weren’t really collaborating … we weren’t hearing from Micheal [Woods], we weren’t hearing from Scott [Rogers],” he explained. “We had a very narrow agenda.”

Freeman suggested CIBO members become involved in addressing homelessness. “It’s not going to be fun to point out how historically some things haven’t worked out so great and they have bad impact on business and the residents,” he said. “But they have to hear that [in the government]. You have to build relationships between the business community, public safety, medical care, behavioral health care and the great providers that are already doing an excellent job.”

He added, “And we have to make it work together in order to make improvements that you all are going to see.”

— Jessica Wakeman

Around the region

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

jmcguire@mountainx.com

In Haywood County, water quality is a local matter.

That’s because every waterway in the county originates entirely within its borders. Creeks, streams and even the Pigeon River begin their journeys downstream as springs, rainfall or runoff that accumulates high in the mountains.

“No water enters the county, it only exits,” says Preston Jacobsen, executive director of the nonprofit Haywood Waterways Association. “We are one of two counties in the nation where our county boundaries overlap, align or fall within a watershed boundary itself. All of this gets to the point that it’s our responsibility. There’s no one else that we can complain to for issues that arise.”

Formed in 1998, HWA works to reduce nonpoint pollution in the Pigeon River Watershed through education, restoration and monitoring. The group partners with government agencies, schools and others on water quality issues in the county of 62,000 people.

Such a local approach is not unique to HWA. Many nonprofit groups throughout Western North Carolina find that focusing their efforts on specific communities is the most effective way to get results.

“We have our ear to the ground locally,” says Gerard Prendergast, president of the Saluda Community Land Trust, which aims to preserve Saluda’s rural character. “We focus in on the people, the community and the land right here. Saluda is a small town, and everyone knows everyone. They let us know what needs to be done.”

Similarly, the Hickory Nut Gorge Foundation gives grants to help charitable organizations in small communities like Gerton, Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and Bill’s Creek.

“The Hickory Nut Gorge area is a little bit isolated,” says Jack Barton, the group’s treasurer. “It’s 45 minutes from anywhere. So the idea is that we’ll have more impact if we stay local and work local because a lot of the other organizations might not reach us. We can try to help this area in little ways.”

As part of Xpress ’ annual Sustainability Series, we look at examples of three WNC nonprofits that embody the motto “think globally, act locally.”

PRESERVING SALUDA

The Saluda Community Land Trust was created in 2007 by a group

Local nonprofits find power in being hyperlocal

of residents who wanted to preserve the small-town character and rural feeling of the city of about 600 that lies in both Polk and Henderson counties.

“We’re not opposed to growth,” Prendergast says. “Growth is natural, and it happens, but we don’t want to lose all our farmland and the way of life that that represents. Nature is an integral part of living here, and we don’t want to lose touch with the nature that brought us here and that we love.”

The group works to preserve undeveloped land in commercial and residential areas for agricultural or public use, establishes greenways and parks and works to educate the public. In the last year alone, Prendergast says, the land trust has nearly tripled the amount of land under its stewardship to more than 1,000 acres.

Over the years, SCLT has helped create eight nature parks, including Little Park, Judd’s Peak, the Bradley

Nature Preserve, the Missing 40 Trail

and the almost completed Henry’s Nature Center, an environmental education site for children.

The center, built on land bought in foreclosure, will include an outdoor pavilion, beds for growing native plants and walking trails.

“Children will learn about the land they live in,” Prendergrast says. “It’s important to get them outside because they’re the future stewards of the land. We need to get kids involved, not just retirees like myself.”

For the same reasons, the group offers free swimming lessons each summer at Twin Lakes, a rural retreat bequeathed to it in 2012.

Other projects include a hemlock recycling program, kudzu control, forest management, botanical studies, conservation easements, stream stabilization, a community garden and a public dog park. Plans also include an African American history trail.

“We’ve done a lot, but there’s so much more to do,” Prendergast says. “So you never sit still and say, ‘OK, we’re doing great.’ It always feels that we can do more.”

HELPING HICKORY NUT GORGE

Hickory Nut Gorge is a 14-mile-long canyon that cuts through the Blue Ridge Mountains and includes rural communities like Gerton, Bat Cave, Lake Lure and Bill’s Creek, as well as Chimney Rock State Park. It lies primarily in Rutherford County but also extends a bit into Henderson County.

Established in 2006, the Hickory Nut Gorge Foundation is a philanthropic endowment that provides grants to nonprofits and charitable organizations for gorge-centric proj-

WADING TIME: The Haywood Waterways Association sponsors Kids in the Creek, an annual program that allows eighth graders to explore local water resources. Photo courtesy of Haywood Waterways Association

ects. The foundation’s board has given an estimated $40,000 through 40 grants.

While some of the money has gone to environmental preservation groups — including Conserving Carolina and the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge — much of it has been awarded to nonprofits serving more general community needs. For instance, the foundation has awarded grants to charter school Lake Lure Classical Academy, the Lake Lure Farmers Market, Habitat for Humanity and Friends of the Mountains Branch Library, which used the money for a bookmobile.

In 2022, HNGF gave $5,000 to Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach, which addresses food insecurity, to pay for Christmas meals. And during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it provided money for food and telemedicine programs being run by local organizations.

“Our granting process is not very formal at all,” Barton explains. “So we were able to jump on things like that. If a need just really pops up, we can be there without spending too much time deliberating.”

The organization’s endowment began with an anonymous donation of $25,000 and has grown to more than $400,000. The money is held and invested by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina.

Most of the new money for the endowment comes in from small pledges of, say, $250 a year for 10 years, Barton says.

“You can start very small and still be a part of something that’s going to continue forever,” he says. “Because if you give $200 to a food bank or something, well, that $200 is gone. But if you give that same $200 to an endowment, then some part of that is going to be there every year. You don’t have to be Bill Gates or anybody to set up a huge endowment. You can contribute to a very small one in a very small way and still have an impact.”

PROTECTING THE WATER

Like the other nonprofit groups, the Waynesville-based Haywood Waterways Association sees education as key to a sustainable future.

Each September, the association works with Haywood County Schools to help teach 600 or so eighth graders about water quality. Part of that is the Kids in the Creek program.

“We take them all out to the Pigeon [River], put them in waders, and we’ll do things like shock the fish, so they can collect them, count and ID them,” Jacobsen explains. “Sometimes they fall; they have a good time, they’re

collecting samples and collecting bugs to identify the health of the stream. We do a follow-up assessment in the classroom, and we’ve seen wonderful data come out of this to prove that environmental literacy and stewardship have increased.”

It also sees restoration and monitoring as key to its mission. HWA has secured eight grants worth about $3.2 million to do restoration work in the next few years.

“Our No. 1 polluter continues to be sedimentation — dirt in the water, if you will,” Jacobsen says. “So we do a lot of work to improve and repair and bring back stream banks that

are failing. If there are issues related to sewage, stormwater or contamination to our waterways, we go after the grants and do the work to rectify and restore that site.”

Among other accomplishments, HWA has:

• Procured a $2 million grant to reduce flooding risk in Canton, Clyde and Cruso, areas devastated by the effects of hurricanes Frances and Ivan in 2004 and Tropical Storm Fred in 2021.

• Worked with the Haywood County Health Department to remove and replace 195 septic repair systems since 2006.

• Monitored 26 sites in the county for water quality.

• Contracted with the towns of Waynesville and Clyde for some stormwater monitoring.

“If you live here, you want to protect your home and you’re more passionate about the work,” Jacobsen says. “We’ve got the ability to enact an idea, gather the funds, put those funds to work without interruption and then to ensure that the success from that project carries into that second opportunity. Everybody here in the county, we meet regularly, all the same time, all in the same room. We hash out all of our issues, and then we go after the same solutions together. That approach is the only approach to get things done.” X

IN THE SWIM: The Saluda Community Land Trust operates Twin Lakes, a 22-acre recreational facility for swimming, fishing and hiking. Photo courtesy of SCLT

Unplugged

BY LISA ALLEN

lallen@mountainx.com

When schools shut down at the start of COVID-19 and online learning became the norm, Jay and Jaydee Azavari experienced a logistical nightmare. Their six children spanned elementary to high school.

The virtual classroom setting “became unworkable for our family for a number of reasons,” Jay says.

The arrangement also began to impact some of their children’s mental health.

In response, the couple turned to the 100 acres surrounding their Asheville home and launched a nature-based educational program, going back to something they had done before: home-schooling.

Just a few years later, that initial idea has grown into the Appalachian Academy of Therapeutic Arts. The home-school enrichment cooperative now enrolls 30 students from ages 2 1/2 to 13 to learn through nature.

Electricity is scarce, and there are no screens to be found. The classroom is the outdoors. Oh, and some of the instructors are horses.

Xpress caught up with Jay and Jaydee as they prepared for an open house taking place Saturday, April 20, 1-4 p.m.

Xpress: Do either of you have an educational background?

Jaydee: I have an educational background as a midwifery instructor. That was my work before founding this school. I also worked to found a Waldorf-based cooperative in Hawaii, a Sudbury school in Washington state and several other cooperatives over the course of my parenting the last 20 years.

Jay: I have an education background primarily in music. I’ve taught in a variety of different settings over the years, anywhere from elementary to high school and adults as well.

The school seems to have been born of necessity. Is it something that you think you would have chosen to do otherwise?

Jaydee: We’ve definitely spent a lot of time … thinking about it. ... We did a lot of home-schooling, and on our land, we ran small home-school groups. The time period was a bit of an impetus for us. It was like, “OK, do we want to take the gift of land further into a bigger endeavor or

not?” And we’re like, “All right, I guess let’s do this.”

Is that one of the reasons that you’ve home-schooled your kids at different points?

Jaydee: Yes. It was always a part of how you return more to our family, how to return more to our close-knit community as we grow ourselves as adults and as we raise our children.

Last year, for example, probably 50% of the people who [enrolled their children] here had relocated with our program being one of the main reasons why they came to the area. It wasn’t what we expected. It wasn’t our intention to create something that would bring people who weren’t already in Asheville to Asheville.

What were some difficulties that you’ve overcome?

Jaydee: The technological or digital world versus the natural world is a big thing that I feel like all humanity is facing right now. And bringing education and resources to parents who are more interested in having their children be in nature or not being raised in a digital world continues to bring a big challenge. But it’s really difficult to move through the day without them. It’s not necessarily a challenge around our school but a challenge in relation to what we stand for that feels in such deep contrast to the majority of other educational opportunities.

How have you solved the balance between nature and technology?

Jay: One of our biggest founding principles is immersion in the natural world. All of our settings are in the wilderness. We have shelters — we have the ability to protect ourselves from the elements to a certain extent — but we don’t have things like climate control or electricity. And we’re not anti-technology necessarily. It’s more about continuing to cultivate our natural relationship with wilderness and our human biology and how it is connected to the natural world and all of the various benefits that come from those prolonged exposures to nature.

Tell me how therapeutic arts come in.

Jay: From our perspective, the concept of the therapeutic arts is essentially building skills and utilizing tools in order to deepen our sense of embodiment and self-knowing. I’m a follower of a lot of the Dallas [breathing] practices. So I will guide

the children through breath and body movement, connective exercises through qigong and starting to learn about how our vessels — our human body — works. When we stand in the natural environment, we stand on the soil, on the ground, out in the air, in the woods. We are faced with a greater variety of input as far as what we have to navigate to just be present and be in our body.

That’s a jumping-off point of what we would start a day with, for instance. And then we would go from there into a little bit more of a contemplative discussion and study. We work with writing things by hand, in cursive. I do a lot of diagrams and sharing on a chalkboard. And we do interactive activities, like using an actual dictionary to look things up.

Jaydee: We have hard-copy books that the children read from. There is still a wide variety of ways to

learn and to gather information and knowledge that isn’t technologically based. … One of our lead teachers — she’s also our equine program director — is trained in what we call horse-powered learning. So it’s horse-powered math and horse-powered reading. And it’s using horses to integrate both hemispheres of the brain while learning foundational math and English, reading and writing. In that pedagogical model, there is no technology needed.

Did you pattern your program after an existing program, or did you come up with this yourself?

Jaydee: We really came up with this ourselves. If I could find something that integrated all of this, I would love to hear it and know about it and learn from it. But up until this point, we’ve mostly been relying on the resources that both Jay and I brought to the table from parenting

and working in the natural-health world. [We’ve learned] from the staff that have joined us to build this and the parents.

What if someone else wanted to set up a program like this?

Jaydee: We also help other people who want to develop a program like ours in their areas. In our codifiable model, you can do this wherever you are. You don’t just have to have horses, you don’t have to have 100 acres of land. You can use a park, you can use goats and chickens, you could use dogs if you wanted to integrate therapeutic aspects that animals bring to us.

Jay: We have these fundamental guiding principles such as the cultivation of this mind-body awareness and using nature, the natural world. On top of that, there’s a bit of a patchwork component to this. Through regular conversations with students,

families and then whatever the individual skills that each of the facilitators bring to the table as they come in and out of this collective, it has a change on how it’s presenting at the moment. So it does have a bit of ebb and flow built into it. It is scalable or reproducible to some other collective of individuals.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of starting this educational community?

Jay: I would say it’s seeing these children just thrive, seeing the brightness and the brilliance of their minds and bodies and the sort of the transformation that has happened in quite a number of the children that I’ve seen over these past few years.

Jaydee: We had a child who joined us midyear this year whose mother came to me a couple of weeks after he’d been here and she was in tears. “I see my child again,” she said. The child had been to a couple of different private school settings. I don’t know their direct history. But she was like, “I felt like I lost my child. And after being here, he’s woken back up. I can see him. He’s regulating better. He’s happy. He’s shining again.”

And I started crying. That was incredible. … The biggest undercurrent is the natural world. When we look at the things that we’re facing — the increases in depression, anxiety in young people and, in all of us, physical health problems — nature is our only constant. If humans are going to be here, it seems like the natural world will also have to be here. What humans do will ebb and flow, but if we all have this resilience, this inherent connection to the natural world, no matter where these children go, they can return to that. If they’re in a city, they can find a tree, and they will know if they go sit by that tree, they can find themselves again.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/djp. X

OFFLINE: Jaydee Azavari, left, and Jay Azavari founded Appalachian Academy of Therapeutic Arts to keep children grounded in nature. Photo courtesy of the Azavaris

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.

 Online-only events

 More info, page 46-48

 More info, page 49

WELLNESS

Therapeutic Recreation

Adult Morning Movement

Active games, physical activities, and sports for individuals with disabilities ages 17 and over. Advanced registration at avlrec. com required.

WE (4/17, 24), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Tai Chi for Balance

A gentle Tai Chi exercise class to help improve balance, mobility, and quality of life. All ages are welcome.

WE (4/17, 24), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Free Zumba Gold Fitness program that involves cardio and Latin-inspired dance. Free, but donations for the instructor are appreciated. For more information please call (828) 350-2058.

WE (4/17, 24), noon, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Kitten Yoga

Bring your yoga mat and recharge your energy while being assaulted by adorable, adoptable kittens.

WE (4/17), 6pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Tai Chi Fan

This class helps build balance and whole body awareness. All ages and ability levels welcome. Fans will be provided.

WE (4/17, 24), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Nia Dance Fitness

A sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts.

TH (4/18, 25), 9:30am, TU (4/23), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Tai Chi for Beginners

A class for anyone interested in Tai Chi and building balance, whole body awareness and other health benefits.

TH (4/18, 25), MO (4/22), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Dharma & Discuss Meditation instructions will be given during a sitting. This will be followed by a talk and an opportunity to ask Roger questions afterwards.

TH (4/18), 6:30pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Weekly Zumba Classes

Free in-person Zumba classes. No registration required.

HENDO EARTH CELEBRATION: Celebrate Earth Day at Hendersonville’s second annual Hendo Earth Fest on Saturday, April 20, starting at 10 a.m. This family-friendly festival on Hendersonville’s Main Street downtown will feature live music as well as local organizations using hands-on activities to educate and raise awareness of the need to protect our planet. Photo courtesy of the City of Hendersonville

TH (4/18, 25), 6:30pm, St. James Episcopal Church, 424 W State St, Black Mountain

Qigong for Health

A part of traditional Chinese medicine that involves using exercises to optimize energy within the body, mind and spirit.

FR (4/19), TU (4/23), 9am, SA (4/20), 11am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Yoga for Everyone

A free-in person yoga class for all ages and abilities that is led by alternating teachers. Bring your own mat and water bottle.

SA (4/20), 9:30am, Black Mountain Presbyterian, 117 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Yoga in the Park Yoga class alongside the French Broad River led by certified yoga

instructors. All experience levels welcome.

SA (4/20), SU (4/21), 11am, 220 Amboy Rd

Magnetic Minds: Depression & Bipolar Support Group

Free weekly peer-led meeting for those living with depression, bipolar, and related mental health challenges.

SA (4/20), 2pm, 1316 Ste C Parkwood Rd

Wild Souls Authentic Movement w/Renee Trudeau

An expressive movement class designed to help you get unstuck, enjoy cardio movement, boost immune health, dissolve anxiety and celebrate community.

SU (4/21), 9:30am, Dunn's Rock Community Center, 461 Connestee Rd, Brevard

Sunday Morning Meditation Group

Gathering for a combination of silent sitting and walking meditation, facilitated by Worth Bodie.

SU (4/21), 10am, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Yoga Taco Mosa Donation based yoga with Clare Desmelik.

Bring your mat, a water

bottle and an open heart.

SU (4/21), 10am, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

Spring Flow w/Jamie Knox

Prepare your body for warmer weather with a yoga practice designed to release toxins and heaviness left over from winter. No need to pre-register, but bring

a mat.

SU (4/21), 10:30am, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

Qi Gong for a Healthy Back

Find ease of movement and improve overall well-being with the ancient art of Qigong.

TU (4/23), 10am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Full Moon Yoga

Gather and move through a slow, grounding flow while observing our present abundance and what we can release and letgo. All levels welcomed and encouraged.

TU (4/23), 6pm, Hoop House at Hawk Hill, 22 Hawk Hill Rd

Community Yoga & Mindfulness

A free monthly event with Inspired Change Yoga that will lead you into a morning of breathwork, meditation and yoga. Bring your own mat.

WE (4/24), 11:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Self-care for Immunity, Stress Relief & Deep Reserves of Energy

We will use the wisdom of Ayurveda to care for our sense organs, our immunity, and our deep reserves of energy.

TH (4/25), 6:30pm, Alchemy Yoga & Reiki, 900 Hendersonville Rd

ART

Stellar Picks: A Community Choice Exhibition

This exhibition is for everyone who has a favorite piece of art in the WCU Fine Art Museum collection or would like to discover one. Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through June 28, 2024

WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

Agony & Ecstasy: Images of Conscience by Janette Hopper

These linoleum prints show the agony and ecstasy of human life. The love, sorrow, conflict, beauty, enjoyment of nature, contemplation of what is, was and could be and political commentary. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 11am and Sunday, 1 pm. Exhibition through May 31.

Flood Gallery Fine Art Center, 850 Blue Ridge Rd, Black Mountain Counter/Balance: Gifts of John & Robyn Horn

A presentation of important examples of contemporary American craft, including woodworking, metalsmithing, fiber and pottery by renowned American artists. Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday.

Exhibition through July. 29, 2024. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

I Will Tell You Mine

This exhibition features works by 27 artists that work across an impressive range of applications, methods and materials. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 10am, and Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through May 26. See p49 Tyger Tyger Gallery, 191 Lyman St, Ste 144

Mandala Madness III

A third biannual showcase of Mandala artwork that features collections of hypnotizing, meditative and geometric pieces. Open daily, noon. Exhibition through May 5. Foundation Studios, 27 Foundy St

Third Thursday Open Studio Social Third Thursdays are opportunities for artists to network, share ideas, and create together with extended gallery hours.

TH (4/18), 5pm, Foundation Studios, 27 Foundy St

Public Tour: Discovering Art in Asheville

A volunteer educator led tour of the Museum's Collection through the featured exhibition Intersections in American Art. No reservations are required.

TH (4/18), 6pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Sov·er·eign·ty: Expressions in Sovereignty of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

This exhibition educates visitors about the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ autonomy, its relationship with the federal government, and how the tribe has defined its own relationship with its land, people, and culture. Open daily, 9am. Exhibition through Feb. 28, 2025.

Museum of the Cherokee People, 589 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee

Daily Craft Demonstrations

Two artists of different media will explain and demonstrate their craft with informative materials displayed at their booths, daily. These free and educational opportunities are open to the public. Open daily, 10am. Demonstrations through Dec. 31.

FR (4/19), 10am, Folk Art Center, MP 382, Blue Ridge Pkwy

Vera B. Williams: Stories

This retrospective will showcase the complete range of award-winning author and illustrator Vera B. Williams' life and work.

It will highlight her time at Black Mountain

College, her political activism, in addition to her work as an author and illustrator. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through May. 11, 2024.

Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St

Please Bug Me: Opening Reception

This exhibition celebrate the importance and beauty of insects. The opening reception will feature complimentary food and drink while attendees meet the artists.

FR (4/19), 5pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts Exhibition

Featured in this exhibit are Arrowmont’s nationally and internationally recognized practicing artists and university workshop instructors. Open daily, 10am. Exhibition through May 1, 2024.

Folk Art Center, 382 Blue Ridge Pkwy

Adult Studio: Abstract Painting

Dive into the world of Abstract Expressionism with instructor David Shurbutt.

SA (4/20), 12pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Unearthing Treasures

A transformative pottery workshop series specifically crafted for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's. SA (4/20), 6:30pm, Odyssey Clayworks, 236 Clingman Ave

Julieta Fumberg: Of Chaos & Peace, Beauty in Both Fumberg's most recent exhibit portrays darkness to see the light and the contrast of things. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 10am, and Sunday, noon. Exhibition runs through May 5.

Pink Dog Gallery, 348 Depot St

Focus Gallery Exhibit: Art of Detailing

Featuring both traditional and contemporary craft by five members of the Guild. Open daily, 10am. Exhibition through May 20, 2024.

Folk Art Center, 382 Blue Ridge Pkwy

Thistle & Pearl Art

Show

This exhibition features art from the whole Thistle and Pearl Tattoo crew including BB June, Bill Smiles, Reina Lynn, Doe Bull, Ash Grey and more. Gallery open Monday through Sunday, noon. Exhibition through May 19.

Push Skate Shop & Gallery, 25 Patton Ave

Conceptually Crafty

A all ages art class that redefines crafting for individuals of all skill levels.

TU (4/23), 7pm, Phil Mechanic Studios, 109 Roberts St

Making Changes

Exhibition

Exploring the sentiment that growth is universal, whether planned or spontaneous, material or spiritual. Red House Studios invite all mediums to contribute to a collective exploration of the unawakened and unknown. Open daily, 10am. Exhibition through May 13.

Red House Gallery & Studios, 101 Cherry St, Black Mountain

Asheville’s Naturalist: Watercolors by Sallie Middleton

This exhibition features a selection of botanical and wildlife prints by renowned watercolor artist Sallie Middleton. Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday. Exhibition through June 10

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

The New Salon: A Contemporary View

A modern take on the prestigious tradition of the Parisian Salon with the diversity and innovation of today’s art world. Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday. Exhibition through Aug. 19.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Please Bug Me

An exhibition that celebrates the importance and beauty of insects while educating the community about what each of us can do to protect bug populations. Gallery open Monday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through April 26.

Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Spark of the Eagle

Dancer: The Collecting Legacy of Lambert Wilson

This exhibition celebrates the legacy of Lambert Wilson, a passionate collector of contemporary Native American art. Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through June 28, 2024

WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

WNC Bonfire Studios: Cute Native Pollinator

The goal is to guide participants through pictures so that everyone creates something exceptional no matter the skill level.

TH (4/25), 6:30pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

Vote us Best Roofing Company!

BEST TATTOO PARLOR / STUDIO AND BEST PIERCING STUDIO VOTE US

COMMUNITY MUSIC

The Songwriter Sessions w/Roger Brown, Annie Wenz & Charlie Wilkinson

An evening of original songs in a natural acoustic listening room. This week features popular local musicians

Roger Brown, Annie Wenz and Charlie Wilkinson.

WE (4/17), 7pm, The Brandy Bar, 504 7th Ave E, Hendersonville

Ben Balmer

Asheville-based troubadour Ben Balmer, begins a yearlong residency with AGB, bringing special guests.

WE (4/17), 7:30pm, Asheville Guitar Bar, 122 Riverside Dr Hafla w/Nazario Chickpeazio

Featuring a live performance with Nazario Chickpeazio, former member of Baraka Mundi, with special guest musicians and Belly-dancers.

WE (4/17), 7:30pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave

The Hillai Govreen Quintent

This concert will feature an array of influences including soundtracks, jazz standards and Brazilian music.

TH (4/18), 7pm, Mars Landing Galleries, 37 Library St, Mars Hill

The Well Drinkers Bluegrass group, The Well Drinkers will kick off Carolina Heritage Weekend, a community-driven celebration hosting local artisans, musicians and performers.

TH (4/18), 7pm, Folkmoot Auditorium, 112 Virginia Ave, Waynesville

Trailblazing Women of Country: A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta & Dolly

Featuring Miko Marks and Nashville-based singer, Kristina Train, supported by a 5-member-all-female band to entertain and inspire audiences during this pivotal moment in our nation's history.

TH (4/18), 7:30pm, WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

The Silver Doors Album Release Show A stacked bill of psych in celebration of The Silver Doors genre-bending brand new album.

TH (4/18), 8pm, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave

Art of The Duo: Natalie Cressman & Ian Faquini w/Rebecca Kleinmann & Taylor Eigsti

The combination of these four internationally acclaimed talents guarantees an evening of delightful and deeply satisfying music. The evening will crescendo into a few special

collaborations as a quartet.

FR (4/19), 7pm, Freeburg Pianos, 2314 Asheville Hwy, Ste D Hendersonville

Mountain Harp Quartet Concert

A local group dedicated to fostering traditional music on small harps with a variety of Celtic, Appalachian, and original music.

SU (4/21), 2pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Citizen Swing: Connor Law & Taylor Pierson

The fun starts with some cool, old jazz vinyl, and then continues with live sets by Connor Law and Taylor Pierson.

WE (4/24), 6pm, Citizen Vinyl, 14 O Henry Ave

Mike Rhodes Fellowship

A collective curated by drummer Mike Rhodes that features a different lineup of Asheville’s most talented musicians each performance.

TH (4/25), 6:30pm, Pisgah Brewing Co., 2948 US Hwy 70 W, Black Mountain

LITERARY

Black Cat Tales: Story Time w/Cats

Families with children age 7 & under are invited to relax in the cat lounge and listen to a cat-centric book surrounded by the resident panthers.

WE (4/17, 24), TH (4/18, 25), FR (4/19), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Tom Maxwell w/Mark Capon

Maxwell's book, A Really Strange and Wonderful Time, is the first biography of the thriving and influential rock scene in Chapel Hill, which gave the world artists like Ben Folds Five, Superchunk, and Squirrel Nut Zippers.

WE (4/17), 7pm, Citizen Vinyl, 14 O Henry Ave

Asheville Storyslam: Green

Prepare a five-minute tale involving verdant fields, blades of grass, tree-huggers or leprechauns.

TH (4/18), 7:30pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

The Prison Books Movement

This event will bring together editors and contributors to Books through Bars, a new collection exploring how prison books programs are quietly challenging the largest prison industry in the world.

Dark City Poets Society Publishing Workshop

Learn tips and tricks on how to get published and what the best practices are for submitting your work for consideration. This workshop is open to all ages, and no registration is required.

TU (4/23), 6pm, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

THEATER & FILM

The Psychology of Serial Killers

Dr. Rachel Toles, a renowned Clinical Psychologist and criminal expert, explores the terrifying minds of the world’s most infamous serial killers in her show.

WE (4/17), 8pm, The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave

Sincerely, The Egg

The play follows an individual’s experience with the afterlife upon their death, and their meeting with an individual known as God.

TH (4/18), FR (4/19), SA (4/20), 7:30pm, SU (4/21), 2pm, UNC Asheville Belk Theatre, 1 University Heights

Step Afrika!: Student Series

Blending African-American dance styles, traditional African dances and an array of contemporary dance art forms in a performance dedicated to the art of stepping. Recommended for grades 3-12.

FR (4/19), 10am, Wortham Center For The Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave

Interactive Murder Mystery Night: Saints & Sinners

Prior to the event, participants will receive character assignments and preparatory materials.

FR (4/19), 7pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

Step Afrika!

Feel the irresistible energy and heart-pounding rhythms of dance with the first professional dance company dedicated to the art of stepping.

FR (4/19), SA (4/20), 7pm, Wortham Center For The Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave

I'll Eat You Last

A captivating one-woman show that offers an intimate glimpse into the life and secrets of legendary talent agent Sue Mengers, now portrayed by Lyn Donley.

FR (4/19), SA (4/20), 7:30pm, SU (4/21), 2pm, Hart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville

Matilda the Musical

a young girl with a sharp wit, unbounded imagination, and psychokinetic powers.

FR (4/19), 7:30pm, SA (4/20), SU (4/21), 2pm, Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E Walnut St

An Afternoon w/Emily Dickinson

A special spring performance where North Carolina actor Susan King portrays legendary writer Emily Dickinson in The Belle of Amherst by William Luce.

SU (4/21), 4pm, Parish Hall of St John in the Wilderness, 1905 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock Trail Running Film Festival

Independent filmmakers from around the world will showcase their work by bringing stories of adventure, inclusivity, wilderness, art, and diversity to the forefront.

SU (4/21), 5:30pm, The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave

Ritual Mountain Bike Film Tour

The film series highlights incredible athletes, creative filmmakers, engaging storylines and stunning cinematography; bringing riders together in mountain biking’s greatest cities and venues.

WE (4/24), 7pm, The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave

Building Bridges Community Talkback of the Film, 13th

In this documentary scholars, activists and politicians analyze the criminalization of African Americans and the U.S. prison boom.

WE (4/17), 8:30am, Hendersonville Water Treatment, 4139 Haywood Rd, Mills River COMMUNITY

SU (4/21), 3pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd

This Tony Award-winning musical weaves the story of Matilda,

TH (4/25), 6pm, The Franklin School of Innovation, 21 Innovation Dr

European Royal Classical Ballet: Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Set to Tchaikovsky's iconic and groundbreaking score, this poignant drama of true love and sacrifice captivates audiences to this day with it's range of technically and emotionally challenging roles for both Principal dancers and the Corps de Ballet.

TH (4/25), 7pm, Wortham Center For The Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS

Bird Walk w/Mills River Partnership

Come listen to and watch birds while learning some identification techniques. Sign up via acmillsriverpartnership@gmail.com to learn more.

The Great Bird Adventure

An expertly guided educational tour that gently leads you through five magnificent exhibits, showcasing rare and endangered birds from every continent of the world.

WE (4/17, 24), FR (4/19), SA (4/20), MO (4/22), 10am, Carolina Avian Research and Education, 109 Olivia Trace Dr, Fletcher

Innerdance: Altered States of Consciousness w/Soundscapes & Energy Work

A music-based, meditative, healing journey with the use of special soundscapes that mimic circadian rhythms and enable people to move effortlessly between different brain wave states.

WE (4/17), 11am, The Horse Shoe Farm, 155 Horse Shoe Farm Rd, Hendersonville

Lil’ Picasso’s Toddler Art

Help little ones embrace their imagination and creativity to develop problem solving, refine motor skills, and creatively to express emotions.

WE (4/17, 24), 1:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Eightfold Path Study Group

A group will gather to study the Eightfold Path Program. Kris Kramer will host the group as a fellow participant and student.

WE (4/17, 24), 3pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Dungeons & Drafts

An evening of adventure, drinks and company play D&D. There will be pre-made characters for you to choose from and join the action.

WE (4/17), 6pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

Intro to DJ Workshop w/Mike Martinez

A special Intro to DJ workshop for interested youth with Mike Martinez. This workshop is free and open to the public.

WE (4/17), 6pm, LEAF Global Arts, 19 Eagle St

Sit & Sound Sanctuary

An opportunity to connect, to explore and navigate our inner terrain, and to quiet things down for a bit. The intention is to cultivate greater awareness, and more resilience in our body, mind, and life.

WE (4/17), 6:30pm, W Asheville Branch Library

A Cautious NonTechnical Introduction to AI & Its Impact on Your Small Business

Learn how Large Language Models (like ChatGPT) work and how they don’t. And learn a few basic ways they can be used, after all, to help you with your small business.

TH (4/18), 11am, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler

Healthy Brain, Healthy Body, Healthy You

This program focuses on key factors of exercise, diet, cognitive activity and social engagement. Registration required.

TH (4/18), 1pm, Haywood County Library-Canton, 11 Pennsylvania Ave, Canton

Bingo-nasium

Bring your friends for a night of bingo in the gym.

TH (4/18), 2pm, Asheville Parks and Recreation, 70 Court Plaza

Kids & Teens Kung Fu

Learn fighting skills as well as conflict resolution and mindfulness.

TH (4/18, 25), MO (4/22), TU (4/23), 4pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Understanding Homelessness Learning Series

An upcoming 3-part

community education series on understanding homelessness.

TH (4/18), 4:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

The Foxy Chef: A Night of Vegan Cooking Chefs will take us on a culinary journey, explaining health benefits of nature's herbs and spices. This class is open for anyone and everyone.

TH (4/18), 5:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Community Science Night

Bring the entire family out for an evening of hands-on, science-based activities. Every participant will be able to complete each station and bring their creations home. This event is open to all ages and pizza will be provided.

TH (4/18), 6pm, Haywood Community College, 185 Freedlander Dr, Clyde

Breakthrough Breathwork

Use the power of breathwork to activate the power of 3 so you can access deeper wisdom, heighten creativity and connect to your most authentic self.

TH (4/18), 6:30pm, Alchemy Yoga & Reiki, 900 Hendersonville Rd, Ste 101

Charcuterie Workshop

Learn new cheeseboard skills, how to choose your ingredients, how to correctly fold salami and how to take that perfect photo.

TH (4/18), 6:30pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

Spring Nature Ramble

Led by skilled and experienced naturalist Nora Murdock, explore the rarely-visited private Hemphill Estate in Black Mountain for a day of discovery.

FR (4/19), 9am, Swan-

nanoa Valley Museum & History Center, 223 W State St, Black Mountain

Naturalist Hikes

Short, slow-paced hikes led by experienced naturalists to identify plants, animal tracks, bird songs, and other phenomena of Southern Appalachia

FR (4/19), 9:30am, Asheville Recreation Park, 65 Gashes Creek Rd

Cat Communication Workshop

An hour-long workshop to open your mind to your natural intuitive power and translate those typical cat behaviors into something we can fully understand and respond to.

FR (4/19), 6pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Monthly Belay Clinic

This hour long clinic covers the basics of knot tying, gear checks, and belaying using the PBUS technique. Advance registration required.

FR (4/19), 6pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Moth Nights: Discoveries in Darkness

This presentation will provide an introduction into this amazing diversity, as well as the important roles these insects play in our natural environment.

FR (4/19), 6:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Financial Planning for Starting a Business

Learn how to use financial information to manage your business day-to-day, raise capital, incentive key employees, and more.

SA (4/20), 9am, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler

Earthaven Ecovillage Tour

Learn the history, purpose, and development

of Earthaven Ecovillage through this tour.

SA (4/20), 10am, Earthaven Ecovillage, 5 Consensus Circle, Black Mountain

Springtime Collograph Printing

This workshop will guide participants through choosing imagery and materials, assembling the printing plate, and producing images on paper. Students will use colors and styles that suits their personal aesthetic.

SA (4/20), 10am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

What’s Shaking? Music & Dance Workshop

A live, interactive 60-minute immersive class for young people and their adults. Shows include Mr. Ryan’s original poems, songs, and a few classic covers.

SA (4/20), 11am, LEAF Global Arts, 19 Eagle St

Bid Whist

Make bids, call trumps, and win tricks. Every Saturday for fun competition with the community.

SA (4/20), 1pm, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St, Bingo

Small prizes awarded to winners of each game.

SA (4/20), 1pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Coloring w/Cats: Kiddie Edition

A relaxing artistic session with coloring books and markers while you pet cats to reduce stress and anxiety.

SA (4/20), 1:30pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Alexander Technique Workshop

A safe space to share questions, experiences and to explore together how to cultivate a sense of wellbeing while refining your artistry. All levels and abilities

are welcome.

SU (4/21), 11am, Asheville Music School, 10 Ridgelawn Rd

Styrofoam (EPS) Collection

A foam collection event. Bring your clean, white foam but no food service foam.

SU (4/21), noon, Tanger Outlets Asheville, 800 Brevard Rd

Weekly Sunday Scrabble

Weekly scrabble play. All scrabble gear provided.

SU (4/21), 1:30pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Coloring w/Cats

Set time for yourself and cuddle with the panthers, meet other cat-lovers, and color a beautiful picture of a cat from our adult coloring books.

SU (4/21), 2pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Q4VR Voting Rights Party

A free for all ages voting rights party sponsored by Q4VR, Queers for Voting Rights. There will be music, dancing, food, a chance to meet candidates, register to vote and learn how to register others.

SU (4/21), 2pm, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

Black Men Monday

A local group that has stepped up in the community to advocate for and mentor students through academic intervention. Kids, ages 7 and up, are welcome to join.

MO (4/22), 5:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Leadership Education & Development: Braver Angels Depolarizing Within

A free public event to foster respectful political dialogue to teach how to communicate across political divides effectively. Open to all,

including students.

MO (4/22), 6pm, OLLI/ Reuter Center, UNCA, 300 Campus View Rd

Community Drum Class w/Larry McDowell

Hone your hand drum skills with an experienced local drummer and instructor. All skill levels welcome.

MO (4/22), 7pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Therapeutic Recreation Adult Crafting & Cooking

A variety of cooking and crafts for individuals with disabilities ages 17 and over each week. Advance registration at avlrec.com is required.

TU (4/23), 10am, Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd

Toddler Discovery Time

Crafts, games, and playtime for youngsters. Advance registration at avlrec. com is required.

TU (4/23), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

A Discussion About Mission Hospital, Medicare & Other Vital Health Topics

Andrew Jones, an investigative reporter for Watchdog and Karen Sanders, a Registered Nurse formerly from the Mission Health System will be the keynote speakers of this discussion.

TU (4/23), noon, Weaverville Community Center, 60 Lakeshore Dr, Weaverville

Lunch & Learn: Are Your Affairs in Order? Award winning attorney to provide free advice on how to prepare for the future and leave a legacy. Advance registration is required.

TU (4/23), 12:15pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Kung Fu: Baguazhang

It is the martial arts style that Airbending from the show Avatar: The Last Airbender was

based on.

TU (4/23), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Swing Asheville: Lesson & Dance

An evening of swing lessons and a dance social with music provided by DJ Hi-Fly. The lesson is appropriate for dancers with no dance background.

TU (4/23), 7pm, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd

Every Black Voice: AVL's Racial Justice Coalition Lunch & Learn

This event will be discussing reparations and the history of black Asheville. Housing, health and wellness along with community building and education will also be topics of conversation.

WE (4/24), 12:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Nature Lovers Craft Time

Get crafty and create wonderful pieces of art using natural materials.

WE (4/24), 12:30pm, Asheville Recreation Park, 65 Gashes Creek Rd

3 Practices Solution Circle, For Entrepreneurs: Creativity in Small Business

A process oriented, problem-solving mechanism that business owners can use to get questions answered, holistically, from various perspectives. Free but registration at avl.mx/dl3 is required.

WE (4/24), 1pm, Online Greenway Walking Club

All ages, sizes, and cultural backgrounds welcome to connect neighbors while walking as a group to better health. Advance registration required.

WE (4/24), 5:30pm, French Broad River Greenway Scattergories Challenge Night

A classic fast-thinking word game. Points are

awarded for unique answers that match the category, with the goal of having the most points at the end of the game.

WE (4/24), 5:30pm, Beradu--Specialty Market, Kitchen & Bar, 2 E Market St, Black Mountain

Cultivating Medicinal Mushrooms: Reishi

Discover the art of growing medicinal mushrooms in your own home from Chris Parker who has 30 years of experience of cultivating and wild foraging in the Southern Appalachians. Registration at xavl.mx/dl4 is required.

WE (4/24), 6pm, Online Selling on Shopify

Learn how to establish your brand online with a custom domain name and online store with instant access to hundreds of the best looking themes, and complete control over the look and feel. Registration at avl.mx/dkv is required.

WE (4/24), 6pm, Online National Speakers Association of WNC Meeting

Professional keynote speakers, coaches, trainers, facilitators, and consultants who cover a broad range of topics, skills, & knowledge.

TH (4/25), 10:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Access to Capital

Learn why businesses borrow money, what lenders are looking for when reviewing your application, and the importance of having cash flow projections. Registration at avl.mx/dl5 is required.

TH (4/25), noon, Online

Change Your Palate Cooking Demo

This free lunchtime food demonstration is open to all but tailored towards those with type 2 diabetes or hypertension and/or their caretakers. Our featured host is Change

Your Palate's very own Shaniqua Simuel.

TH (4/25), noon, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

The Road Ahead

Chris Fink will share resources and tools to create the best possible outcomes for you and your loved ones in the mental health system. There is no cost for the event, but registration is required.

TH (4/25), 5pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Lifestyle Choices

A group discussion for 14 to 19 year-olds that offers an opportunity for young males to engage in open discussion regarding their behaviors and community involvement.

TH (4/25), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St

Setting Energetic & Spiritual Foundations

In this workshop, we dive into the essential elements of setting robust energetic and spiritual foundations.

TH (4/25), 6pm, $38, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave

Dharma talk w/John Orr

John will give Dharma talk and lead discussion on various topics related to meditation and Buddhist teachings.

TH (4/25), 6:30pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Family Bingo Night Opportunities to win some awesome prizes for the whole family.

TH (4/25), 6:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

LOCAL MARKETS

RAD Farmers Market

Providing year-round access to fresh local foods from over 30 local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, pastured meats, cheeses, raw honey, and more. Located right on the Greenway, the market is safely accessible by bike, foot, or rollerblade.

WE (4/17, 24), 3pm, Smoky Park Supper Club, 350 Riverside Dr

Bounty & Soul Latino

Wednesday Market

Produce to the People provides equitable access to nutritious, culturally relevant food through weekly community markets. Enjoy local Latinx staples as well as a live cooking demo and kids activities.

WE (4/17, 24), 3:30pm, Swannanoa United Methodist Church, 216 Whitson Ave, Swannanoa

Friday Market

Produce to the People provides equitable access to food through weekly community markets. There will be cooking demos and kids activities, foods from local farms, fresh produce and other healthy staples.

FR (4/19), 3:30pm, 205 NC-9, 205 North Carolina 9, Black Mountain

North Asheville

Tailgate Market

The oldest Saturday morning market in WNC, since 1980. Over 60 rotating vendors providing a full range of local, sustainably produced produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, plants and unique crafts.

SA (4/20), 8am, 3300 University Heights

Market Faire

Experience how the settlers of the 18th Century shopped for goods in this Eighteenth Century flea market. The market will feature dress selling items, clothing, soaps, candles, books, hand-crafted pottery, Pewter and more.

SA (4/20), 10am, Davidson's Fort Historic Park, 140 Bud Hogan Dr, Old Fort Mars Hill Farmers & Artisans Market

A producer-only tailgate market located on the campus of Mars Hill University on College Street. Offering fresh local produce, herbs, cheeses, meats, eggs, baked goods, honey, body care and more.

Every Saturday through Oct. 26.

SA (4/20), 10am, College Street, Mars Hill

Stop & Shop Popup Market

A unique popup shopping event for all who would like to shop and sell gently worn clothes, sweets, treats, handmade crafts, and pottery.

SA (4/20), 10am, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St

Plant Club Pop-Up Market

Each month will feature 6-10 different growers and makers offering a wide array of plant products; from rare tropicals to native medicinals, handmade pots and trellises to botanical watercolor paintings and more. See p49

SA (4/20), 11am, Canopy Gallery in Art Garden, 191 Lyman St, Ste 316

I Heart Indie Pop-Up Makers Market

Local makers, artists and several taprooms are coming together to showcase an array of goods.

SA (4/20), 1pm, Urban Orchard Cider Co. S Slope, 24 Buxton Ave

South Slope Makers

Market & Bar Hop

A spring market featuring a wide variety of handmade and vintage goods including original art, home decor, clothing, metal working, jewelry and more. This is a family friendly event, however please note alcohol will be present due to the nature of the venues.

SA (4/20), 1pm, Green Man Brewery, 27 Buxton Ave

Carolina Ground's April Pop-Up

There will be an array of baked goods, breads, pastry, and pie made with Carolina Ground flour as well as flours, cornmeal, polenta, grits, eggs, honey and more. See p48

SU (4/21), 10am, Carolina Ground, 1237 Shipp St, Hendersonville

Honky Tonk Flea

A honky-theme flea market featuring western wear, vintage, antiques and rare finds galore.

SU (4/21), 11am, Eda's Hideaway, 1098 New Stock Rd

Asheville Punk Flea Market

This local flea market features art, punk crafts, vinyl, vintage and more.

SU (4/21), noon, Fleetwood's, 496

Haywood Rd

Magical Market

Stock up on magical supplies in the shop, browse our market of local vendors, pet some panthers in the cat lounge, and finish your day off with an intuitive reading.

SU (4/21), nooj, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Spring Fest & Plant Swap

A propagation plant swap featuring local artists focusing on nature inspired art and vendors from area plant nurseries along with a special seasonal beer release.

SU (4/21), oon, Lookout Brewing Co., 103 S Ridgeway Ave, Black Mountain

Bullington Gardens

Annual Spring Plant Market

Discover a wide array of perennials, annuals, bulbs, shrubs, and trees, including new favorites. All plant sale proceeds benefit Bullington’s mission of healing and connecting people with nature through horticultural therapy and education.

TH (4/25), 9am, Bullington Gardens, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

WNC Career Expo Employers from across the region will be present with opportunities for job seekers throughout WNC. The Expo will also offer free services to job seekers in need of career readiness or career search support.

WE (4/17), 11am, WNC Ag Center’s Davis Event Center, 765 Boylston Hwy, Fletcher Bicycle Day Eve: Grateful Dead Dance Party w/Pearl Psychedelic Institute

First annual Grateful Dead dance party to commemorate Dr. Albert Hofmann's famous bicycle ride home from his lab in 1943 after he became the first human to intentionally ingest LSD.

TH (4/18), 7pm, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

We’d

Downtown After 5

A free monthly street festival with live music, food, drinks and a craft market. In partnership with the Mosiac Art Walk, the series will kick off with a blast of color and sound from Empire Strikes Brass and an opener Magenta Sunshine.

FR (4/19), 5pm, Downtown After 5, 100 Block N Lexington Ave

Club Saltburn

canoeing, hiking, being with friends and family, and listening to the sounds of Billy Jonas and Free Planet Radio. Proceeds from this event support Kanuga's mission of teaching sustainable models.

SA (4/20), 11am, Kanuga Main Campus, 130 Kanuga Chapel Dr, Hendersonville

Frannys Farm: 420 Fest

and wedding bands

inspired by antique and vintage jewelry.

SA (4/20), 3pm, Alexander & Lehnert

Fine Jewelry, 1 Page Ave, Ste 142

420 Fest 2024

A dance party of cinematic excitement with songs from the movie and other indie rock, sleaze, and Y2K pop hits of the era. Dress as your favorite character or come as you are.

FR (4/19), 8pm, The Outpost, 521 Amboy Rd

Local Cloth FiberFest

Each year, Local Cloth fiber farmers showcase their local fiber from wool to mohair, angora, alpaca and llama fleece, and handmade items incorporating their farm-raised treasures. See p49

SA (4/20), 8am, WNC Farmers Market, 570 Brevard Rd

French Broad River Garden Club Foundation

Annual Plant Market

Featuring locally grown plants, flowers, trees, shrubs, herbs and veggies, plus unique gifts. Expert gardening and plant advice, educational talks, and ukulele music. Proceeds support local student scholarships.

SA (4/20), 9am, The French Broad River Garden Club Foundation, 1000 Hendersonville Rd

Community Seed Exchange

A seed exchange allowing folks from the community to get together and swap seed packets with their neighbors before the spring planting season. The event if free, and open to the public.

SA (4/20), 10am, The Lineside, 58 Commerce St, Waynesville

Hendo Earth Day

Local organizations and environmental champions will educate, entertain, and raise awareness of the need to protect our planet for future generations. There will also be fun, family friendly activities for children of all ages, 40 exhibitors, and engaging musical acts.

SA (4/20), 10am, Historic Downtown Hendersonville, 145 5th Ave E., Hendersonville

Record Store Day

Celebrate record store day with special releases of vinyl, free beer, goodies and music from DJs.

SA (4/20), 10am, Harvest Records, 415-B Haywood Rd

Earth Day Celebration w/Billy Jonas & Free Planet Radio

Celebrate Earth Day with an afternoon of

A day packed with fun, laughter, music and memorable experiences for all ages. The 420 Festival is designed with families in mind, offering an array of activities from engaging kids' activities and animal play to vendors and live music performances.

SA (4/20), noon, Franny's Farm, 22 Franny's Farm Rd, Leicester

Red Eyes & Pizza Highs

Annual 420 party that features special brews, CBD joints, sweet and savory munchies, coloring, crafts and a comedy show with Model Face Comedy.

SA (4/20), noon, Dssolvr, 63 N Lexington Ave

Ross Farm & Appalachian Standard: 420 Fest

In addition to the beautiful greenhouses being open, guests are invited to enjoy live music, food trucks, curated vendors selling art, craft, CBD products, and much more in one of Asheville’s most remarkable locales.

SA (4/20), noon, Ross Farm, 91 Holbrook Rd, Candler

Pluto's Puff: 420 Fest

The Pluto crew is back with an all-day full of Electronic Dance Music, vendors, drinks, and fun in the sun.

SA (4/20), 2pm, The Getaway River Bar, 790 Riverside Dr

Spring Fair & Open House

An afternoon of discovery and family-friendly fun with plenty to do from crafts, games, equine demos, and ancient art workshops.

SA (4/20), 1pm, Appalachian Academy of Therepeutic Arts, 470 Shope Creek Rd

12th annual {Re}

HAPPENING

A platform for contemporary artists to share their responses to the vital legacy of Black Mountain College by activating the buildings and grounds of the BMC campus with installations, new media, music, and performance projects.

SA (4/20), 3pm, Camp Rockmont, 375 Lake Eden Rd, Black Mountain

New Bridal Collection

Launch Party

Enjoy cupcakes and champagne to celebrate the debut of this first bridal collection. Browse new engagement rings

A celebration of fantastic local music with Josh Blake’s Jukebox, Magenta Sunshine and Sugar Bomb, plus some great local arts and craft vendors.

SA (4/20), 9pm, Asheville Music Hall, 31 Patton Ave

Drive Electric: Earth Day Car Show

This event will showcase electric vehicles and the latest innovations in personal electric transportation. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a variety of electric cars, bikes, scooters, hoverboards, one wheels and more.

SU (4/21), noon, Tanger Outlets Asheville, 800 Brevard Rd

Festy at the Westy

The Osprey Orchestra will be hosting a festival with live music, beer, vendors, flow and visual arts. Osprey Orchestra is a WNC four piece band displaying sounds of folk, blue grass, and reggae in a jam/improv style.

SU (4/21), 6pm, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

Adlib Clothing’s Anniversoiree Beloved Downtown Asheville boutique celebrates their 35th anniversary. The festivities will feature live music by local musicians Mr. Jimmy and Paul McIntire, small bites, beverages and door prizes. Open to all the Asheville community.

WE (4/24), 5pm, Adlib Clothing, 23 Haywood St

GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

NC Gun Sense Advocacy Day: Postcard Party & Social

An opportunity for like-minded individuals to mingle and write postcards to elected officials and others on current legislative topics and concerns of participants.

FR (4/19), 4:30pm, Oklawaha Brewing Co., 147 1st Ave E, Hendersonville

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING

Silent Vigil for Immigration Reform

The Progressive Alliance of Henderson County invites the public to participate in a silent vigil to heighten public awareness of and support for immigration reform legislation.

FR (4/19), 4pm, Hendersonville Historic Courthouse Square, 1 Historic Courthouse Square, Hendersonville

12th Annual Spring Clean Coat Drive

Please bring clean and gently used coats to donate to the event.

Children, Teen, and Men coats are in high demand this year. Two Men and a Truck will be there collecting coats and delivering them to Eblen Charities.

FR (4/19), 7am, Carolina Furniture Concepts, 1000 Airport Rd, Arden Yard Sale for Blue Ridge Roller Derby

Browse for a variety of items from clothes to furniture and more. All proceeds from the sale benefit Blue Ridge Roller Derby.

SA (4/20), 8am, BRRD Yard Sale, 133 Dorchester Ave Fitness for a Cause

Three different groups will rotate through three exercise classes over the course of three hours.  All donations are accepted and appreciated to support the Livestrong at the Y program.

SA (4/20), 9am, Hendersonville Family YMCA, 810 6th Ave W, Hendersonville

Earth Day 5K Funds raised will support Green Built Alliance's programs that promote sustainability, impact environmental justice, and serve our community. The race aims to create a positive footprint, providing educational opportunities for engaging our community's commitment to Renewable Energy.

SA (4/20), 10am, Carrier Park, 220 Amboy Rd Dog Pawty & Adoption Event

Enjoy refreshments, music, and visit with other four-legged friends and their human companions. There will be adoptable furever friends from Mountain Pet Rescue.

SA (4/20), 1pm, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St Bountiful Bowls w/ Bountiful Cities

An Earth Day and Food Waste Reduction Month event and fundraiser to benefit Bountiful Cities. This event is free and open to all, but participants are encouraged to bring a vegetable or pantry item that can be part of the stone soup. See p46-47

SU (4/21), 1pm, UNC Asheville Sherrill Center, 227 Campus Dr Hope Springs Eternal Five great bands and musicians unite for an evening of music to support Asheville's Beloved, and their work with the homeless/overlooked. Featuring Isaac Hadden, Peggy Ratusz, Melissa McKinney and more. See p49

TU (4/23), 6pm, The RAD Brew Co., 13 Mystery St

(More) help wanted

BY JESSICA WAKEMAN

jwakeman@mountainx.com

At its March 26 meeting, Asheville City Council heard details about a proposal for a business improvement district in downtown Asheville, spearheaded by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Asheville Downtown Association. Eva-Michelle Spicer, BID steering committee member and Spicer Greene Jewelers co-owner, described the safety and hospitality services that supporters say a BID and its ambassadors could provide: observation and reportage of issues, business engagement, and interaction with the public and members of the homeless population.

Spicer said ambassadors would wear matching polo shirts to be identifiable. They could give directions, make referrals to services such as community paramedics, provide an escort to parking at night “or [do] a special cleanup of needles or biohazards,” she explained. Ambassadors could also connect home-

less people to “services when possible, allowing [Asheville Police Department] to focus on serious crime.”

BIDs are meant to provide assistance above and beyond those provided by the municipality. A downtown Asheville BID website, created by the Chamber of Commerce, details the services already provided by Asheville at avl.mx/dk5, including those related to homelessness outreach.

Currently, Buncombe County and Asheville have two resources addressing the challenges posed by behavioral health and substance use in the community. The co-responder unit — a partnership between the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office and Buncombe County Emergency Medical Services — debuted last summer and operates countywide under the community paramedics. Also last summer, the Asheville Fire Department launched a community responder program staffed by firefighters, which focuses primarily on downtown.

When asked how a BID’s safety ambassadors might coordinate with and work alongside community responders, Patrick Crudup, AFD assistant fire chief of operations, told Xpress, “We don’t see any issue with communicating. … It will probably happen pretty seamlessly.”

APD spokesperson Samantha Booth referred Xpress to the City of Asheville for “more helpful insight regarding discussions and roles.” In a statement to Xpress, city spokesperson Kim Miller wrote, “Given the current status of the proposal, it is not the appropriate time for City of Asheville staff to address the matter.”

WHAT IS A BID?

Under state law, City Council must approve a BID.

Its services would be funded by assessments on properties within a defined boundary (not including nonprofits, government buildings and religious institutions) at 9 cents per $100 of taxable value. If approved, safety and

Public hearing

An Asheville City Council public hearing about the business improvement district for downtown Asheville proposal will take place Tuesday, April 23, 7 p.m., at the banquet hall in Harrah’s Cherokee Center, 87 Haywood St.

What would BID safety ambassadors bring to downtown?

hospitality ambassadors could be serving downtown as soon as this summer.

A BID operates as a nonprofit and is governed by a board. Ambassadors would be contracted workers for the BID management organization, explains Zach Wallace, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce vice president of public policy, in an interview with Xpress.

Block by Block is a BID management organization that provided input for the proposed safety and hospitality services in downtown Asheville. It suggested an estimated 300-400 hours of weekly service, seven days per week, morning through midnight. The company proposed appointing two to three safety and hospitality ambassadors who would serve from 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and 3:30-11:30 p.m., as well as one outreach ambassador and one outreach social worker during periods to be determined.

The proposed annual budget is $700,000 for safety and hospitality services, according to the BID proposal.

If the City Council approves the BID proposal, city staff would develop and issue a request for proposals for a BID management organization, Miller wrote in a statement to Xpress.

‘A HANDOFF’ TO OTHER SERVICES

Progressive Urban Management Associates produced a feasibility study on how a BID could operate in downtown Asheville, which was paid for by the chamber. PUMA senior strategist Yvette Freeman says the concern that Asheville citizens continually voiced in interviews for her company’s proposal research was, “We need more police. We don’t see the police.”

However, Freeman and Wallace emphasize that BID safety ambassadors aren’t meant to fill the role of law enforcement. Safety ambassadors would not carry weapons, and “I don’t hear anybody asking for that,” Wallace tells Xpress. “There needs to be a clear line between an ambassador’s role and law enforcement’s role.”

He believes the community needs “different levels of response … to different issues. If it’s a spectrum, [ambassadors are] going to be working with the lower end of that spectrum. Law enforcement is at the top, and some of these alternative responses [like the county co-responders are] in the middle. A BID ambassador could be the person that says, ‘OK, this is not in my training, but I know who to call.’” Wallace says the BID steering committee has discussed the BID proposal with homelessness social service

NO SUPPORT: Downtown business owner Rebecca Hecht says she can’t support a business improvement district and a team of safety and hospitality ambassadors “until we have 24/7 community paramedic response with behavioral health specialists uniquely qualified to address the behavioral health and opioid epidemic in downtown,” she wrote in a March 25 letter to Asheville City Council. Photo by Jessica Wakeman

providers Homeward Bound, which operates AHOPE Day Center on North Ann Street, and Western Carolina Rescue Ministries on Patton Avenue. Other cities have both safety ambassadors working for a BID and a municipal co-responder program like the one in Buncombe County. As for how the two entities might work together, “I think a ‘handoff’ is a good way to characterize it,” Freeman says. The main role for ambassadors is “having a distinctly uniformed presence. They get to know the community … [and] the folks who are often on the street. They develop a trust.”

Freeman referenced recent work by safety ambassadors in a California city she declined to name, where a woman experiencing a mental health episode threw something at a bank’s window. The ambassadors “were present while she was doing what she was doing, and it gave an indication to passersby [that] ‘yes, this is happening, but you can pass,’” Freeman explains. “They almost created a wall of safety, or a barrier, between what was happening [and the public], while maintaining their own safety.”

Ambassadors typically are trained in first aid and can be trained how to administer naloxone, the opioid reversal drug, or operate an atrial defibrillator, Freeman says. Wallace adds that it may be possible to specify in a management organization’s hiring contract the specific training the community desires its safety ambassadors to have.

SEEKING THE ‘RIGHT RESPONSE’

Safety and hospitality ambassadors would be perceived as a welcome addition by some — additional “eyes and ears” on the street. But others aren’t sure that such a program is a priority. At the conclusion of the March 26 BID presentation, Council member Kim Roney questioned whether the assumed role for safety ambassadors would be more appropriate for a collaboration with Buncombe County’s community paramedics and its co-responder program.

“We have serious overlapping crises of behavioral health, substance use poisoning, overdose, homelessness,” Roney said at the meeting. “[The city is] not yet partnering with the county in the way that we could grow the community paramedicine program with community health specialists uniquely qualified to meet crises. So there’s a gap in our base-level services.”

Roney continued, “Ambassadors are not the right person with the right tools and training for the crises that I just named. What’s going to happen, because we don’t have a holistic response yet, [is] the ambassadors are going to be met with these crises every day. We’re going to fail them.”

Roney then implored the city and county to increase the county’s community paramedicine program and co-responders unit. “Then we would have a solid public safety response, so when you call 911, we send the person with the right tools and the right training,” she said.

Downtown business owner Rebecca Hecht, a former Asheville Downtown Association member and former Downtown Commission member, echoed those sentiments in an email to City Council members March 25. “I can’t support a BID until we have 24/7 community paramedic response with behavioral health specialists uniquely qualified to address the behavioral health and opioid epidemic in downtown,” Hecht wrote.

In an interview with Xpress at her Wall Street leather goods shop, Hecht explained that she supported a previous BID when it was proposed in 2012. However, she feels that the quality of municipal services provided has decreased and that downtown residents and businesses shouldn’t have to shoulder additional taxes in a BID, which she doesn’t think will

directly address downtown’s issues about homelessness and crime.

“If the county’s already got the [community paramedicine] program, why not really bring some focus on that downtown?” Hecht says. “It’s the right kind of response to homelessness and mental health challenges.”

She notes community paramedics have more advanced training than safety ambassadors and therefore can more directly help individuals, rather than handing them off to someone else. “The BID money will just be spent chasing that issue around downtown,” Hecht says.

COUNTY CO-RESPONDERS: ‘NO MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIANS’

The role of the county’s co-responder unit within the community paramedicine program appears to be in flux.

In October, Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller and county EMS Director Taylor Jones held a press conference about the co-responder unit, which they said the county had launched quietly over the summer. Three BCSO deputies and two mental health clinicians served on the unit.

When asked by Xpress for an update about co-responders in April, county spokesperson Lillian Govus wrote in an email, “There’s no update from the fall.”

But community paramedicine program manager Claire Hubbard confirmed in an email that the co-responder unit currently has no behavioral health clinicians on staff and therefore cannot provide a consistent behavioral health response. “The community paramedic program continues to collaborate with the co-response deputies as a stakeholder when possible and appropriate,” Hubbard wrote. “We do not have anyone dedicated to this initiative.”

Jones and Hubbard referred further questions about the county co-responder program to BCSO. BCSO spokesperson Aaron Sarver did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

CITY RESPONDER UPDATE

At the city level, the community responder program is seeking to expand. It continues to be staffed by five members of the Fire Department, says Crudup, the assistant fire chief. These individuals volunteered to work on the city’s community responder program instead of fire suppression and received some training on mental health and deescalation.

AFD received approval by City Council to fund five positions to replace these roles, including a peer support supervisor and two peer supports, through a combination of the City of Asheville’s opioid settlement funds and a Dogwood Health Trust grant. Filling those five positions would allow the firefighters currently working on the com-

munity program to return to fire suppression. The peer supports will allow the community responders to “provide wraparound services, track individuals and make sure to get the services that they need,” Crudup explains.

The AFD’s community responders typically operate from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., although they can go out as early as 7 a.m. and work as late as 11 p.m., Crudup says. “Sometimes they’ll transport people to [homeless shelter] beds. Occasionally, they will be asked to get people to the [Charles George VA Medical Center]. They also provide bus tickets to certain individuals who may need transportation to a shelter or maybe to a doctor’s appointment.”

Requests for the city’s community responders have been steady for the past year, Crudup says. The community can request them through the Asheville App.

“It’s not just serving the unsheltered population; it’s serving the businesses so that everybody can hopefully have a better way of living,” says AFD spokesperson Kelley Klope  X

CONVINCING COUNCIL: At its March 26 meeting, Asheville City Council heard details about a proposal for a business improvement district in downtown Asheville, spearheaded by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Asheville Downtown Association. Screenshot courtesy of YouTube/City of Asheville

Working their magic

Local theaters get creative sourcing sets, props and costumes

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN

Nearly 90 years after the Vagabond Players first organized in Western North Carolina and over 70 years since they took root at Flat Rock Playhouse, many attendees don’t realize that the Henderson County nonprofit is a full, producing theater.

“They think that we’re a presenting theater and the show just shows up. The actors come in ready, the set comes in ready, the costumes are just there and they’re done — but they don’t,” says Adam Goodrum, FRP production manager.

“We start from the ground up with the show. We go to New York [City], we audition the cast, we go and hire our musicians, and we are charting the music for our musicians,” he continues. “We’re designing the costumes, the lights, the sounds, the set.”

While the general misconception persists that, in Goodrum’s words, “if you’re not on Broadway, that work just gets shipped to you,” it also discounts the meticulous work of local craftspeople who ensure that each production looks great and conveys the director’s vision.

Xpress recently spoke with behindthe-scenes players from three area theaters about what’s involved in getting sets, props and costumes to the stage in order to sustain the companies throughout each season.

SET IT UP

The first thing most attendees notice when they walk into a theater is the set. And Julie K. Ross,

N.C. Stage Company scenic designer, counts on verbal feedback to tell if she’s succeeded in her aims.

“You usually get comments right away. They’re like, ‘Whoa! Cool!’ or ‘Wow! I can’t believe they did that,’” she says. “When I go see a show, I like to sit in the back and listen for what people say — which is awesome because it’s totally unfiltered. You go both ways, but most of the time you’re pleasantly surprised at people’s reactions.”

In cases where sets need to be built — which Ross says is most of the

time — the technical director oversees the construction aspect. Ross says N.C. Stage’s go-to TD, Sylvia Pierce (who doubles as props artist), has good carpentry skills and decides the best way to build something after Ross hands in her overall design.

“When I’m designing them, I try to keep in mind similar-sized walls so we’re not building fresh each time,” Ross says.

For example, the rock wall from the February staging of Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help was originally carved for the March 2023 production

of Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike. And the bar area, featuring more carved stones, was from the March 2017 staging of Other Desert Cities. Repurposing scenery gives Ross more time to round out the set, and she first consults a photo inventory to see what furniture and props N.C. Stage has in its modest storage.

“Oftentimes, I’ll start the design process a month or two before the actual show. And in that time, I’m constantly scouring Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace,” Ross says. “Sometimes, things pop up, and

Photo by Eli Cunningham

they’re really cheap, which is definitely in our wheelhouse. But if you don’t move fast enough, you miss out on it, and it’s like, ‘Oh, crap! What are we gonna do now?’”

In a recent pivot, Ross missed out on a plaid couch that felt perfect for Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help but found a green one in Rutherfordton. It fit with the show’s 1970s aesthetic, but using it meant shifting the show’s color palette to match it.

Jill Summers, production manager at Asheville Community Theatre, likewise uses as much stock scenery as possible and will construct any other needed elements from scratch. She’s usually able to pull furniture, appliances or soft goods such as curtains from the theater’s own collection or find what she needs at the local thrift stores, particularly the Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

“I have also been known to just build and paint re-creations if I can’t find what I want — upright pianos, cast iron stoves, etc.,” Summers says. “If I need something very particular, I’ll reach out to theaters we have relationships with that may have done the production recently or might have the item I need — or can point me toward someone who does. Each show presents a unique challenge, so I spend a lot of time researching materials or watching YouTube videos so I can create my own.”

ROCK SOLID

As FRP production manager, Goodrum is in charge of everything theatergoers see on stage — except the actors.

“That’s all the scenery, the props, the paints, the costumes, the lights, the sounds,” he says. “I’m hiring the team, I’m managing the team, I’m managing the spaces, calendars, the rehearsal calendars. When people are coming, when people are going and all of the budgets to go along with that.”

FRP produces a year in advance, but while the leadership team is already working on the 2025 season, Goodrum’s team starts the designing process around October for the first show in April.

“Then my team — the TD who’s in charge of building the sets and the props and the painters — they’re going to get design from our senior designer before the show opens. So that gives them about 10 weeks to fully produce the show: build, paint and find all the items that they’ll need,” he says.

The TD sources from a variety of places, depending on what the particular show requires. Productions that call for a lot of wrought iron or metal structures rely on local steel yards, particularly Jackson Steel. Lumber sources depend on who has the best price and inventory at the time, which often finds FRP pulling from Home Depot and Lowe’s but also downtown Hendersonville’s Builders FirstSource.

FRP has a 5,000-square-foot storage facility near the Hendersonville Airport for its larger props, such as couches, tables, chairs, desks and other objects that are too bulky to store on campus. If the theater doesn’t have an item for a show with a contemporary setting, it will turn to Amazon or Walmart. For older items, FRP has maintained strong relationships with area consignment and antique stores, from whom the theater will purchase pieces or figure out other arrangements.

“A lot of times, if it’s a dresser or a hutch or a desk that we don’t want to buy because we just don’t need more of them, they’ll let us borrow it,” Goodrum says. “It’ll be on our stage for the four weeks, and then we’ll give it back to them. And they’ll get a little shoutout in the playbill saying, ‘Thank you.’”

Once a show ends, practically everything goes back into storage,

CONTINUES ON PAGE 42

including stock items like walls, platforms and stairs, which get reused and painted over. And pieces less likely to be used often find new homes with other area theaters and high schools or enjoy new lives at FRP.

“Most of the things we build, if we know we don’t need it again, we’re going to build it in a way we can take it apart and reuse the raw material of it,” Goodrum says. “Very, very little goes in the trash. If it’s metal and we’re done with it, we’ll take it to a scrap yard and we’ll recycle it just to get some money back for it.”

ALL IN THE DETAILS

When it comes to finding props to help round out Ross’ vision at N.C. Stage, Pierce first starts looking in the easiest place: her house.

“I’m a theater person, so I own everything from antiques to tools to … I have so much stuff,” says Pierce, who’s been working in the industry for over 50 years.

At this early juncture, she also consults friends and professionals with a range of in-house holdings, as well as the inventories at N.C. Stage and ACT. Then it’s time to search beyond that bubble and see what Habitat for Humanity ReStore has. For remaining objects, Pierce combs Facebook Marketplace and goes to private sellers.

“And then when I’m done with all of that, if I have to, I will go online,” she says, favoring Etsy and other marketplaces over Amazon.

Furniture props are usually dictated by the set designer, and Pierce tries to get as close to Ross’ vision as possible. But each show’s director has a lot more say in the hand props, because they impact how a scene is blocked.

“You get paid to buy cool stuff, and you get paid to actually get the character in your brain and go, ‘What’s this person going to do?’” Pierce says. “And I’m usually pretty spot on, and very, very few things get rejected, which is wonderful. Sometimes it’s just like, ‘Oh, we took it in a different direction — we need that.’ And then I go change it.”

If she’s unable to find what she wants, Pierce will build a prop. Here, as with other aspects of her job, she holds herself to the highest standards.

“If I give someone a built prop, it better not break. And that’s why, being a carpenter for 45 years, mostly I overbuild the crap out of things so they don’t break,” she says. “But I love building props because I still get to be creative.”

Working so far ahead keeps FRP from scrambling to find rare and unusual items as opening day nears,

but Goodrum recalls several times that required going beyond the usual sources.

“We did a show called Chasing Rainbows: The Road to Oz, which was the story of Judy Garland before [The] Wizard of Oz, and we needed ruby slippers made — which were rhinestone slippers — and nobody in America still did that work by hand,” he says.

“We actually had a cobbler out of London make them for us. So, dealing with that and the exchange rate and the time difference — and getting them done in time by somebody that normally would spend years on making shoes like that was fun. The bonus is we had an outside producer on that show, so they kind of handled the majority of that.”

Also for Chasing Rainbows , Goodrum says the show’s director was determined to use the same custom-built 1912 Model T Ford convertible that was used in the original Broadway production of Ragtime. She had access to the vehicle — which Goodrum describes as a cross between a classic car and a golf cart — and figuring out how to transport it to and from the FRP stage proved challenging yet rewarding.

FASHION FORWARD

Goodrum says FRP has roughly 1,000 square feet of costume storage on campus for “more everyday style costumes.” And in its 5,000-squarefoot storage facility, he estimates 25% is occupied by costumes.

“It’s more the period ball gowns, large dresses, our furs — stuff that we don’t need every day,” Goodrum says. “But if the show is a period show and we have it, we’re gonna pull it, we’re gonna use it and we’re gonna reuse as much as we can.”

Vintage wear is sourced from local thrift and secondhand stores, and Goodrum notes that eBay has been particularly helpful for finding items for this summer’s productions of The Shawshank Redemption, Cabaret and Jersey Boys, each of which occur in the 1930-60 zone. For shows that take place before the early 20th century, such as the 1820s-set Amadeus, clothing becomes far more difficult to find, prompting the FRP to make them.

“We’ll go out to fabric stores and down to Atlanta to some of the large fabric stores and start to source and build from scratch,” Goodrum says.

New items for modern-day shows are purchased from Amazon and various department and outlet stores. But even never-worn items first go through some form of transformation before opening night.

“Everything that goes on our stage got touched, at some point, by the costume shop,” Goodrum says. “It may have gotten distressed — because a brand-new pair of blue jeans is going to look weird on stage, especially for somebody that’s had them for a while — or they’re going to add a different way to button it up.”

Velcro or snaps are frequently substituted for buttons or zippers to help with quick changes of shirts and pants. Tory Depew readily employs such handy methods in her contract work as a costumer designer with N.C. Stage. And as director of the School of Stage and Screen at Western Carolina University, she’s rented costumes from FRP and vice versa. With N.C. Stage, which has a small costume stock, Depew mostly pulls from her collection at school and buys fabric to make original pieces. But she occasionally uses established resources like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which has its entire costume inventory online.

“If you ask me for something, I probably know where on the internet to source that — or that it can’t be sourced,” Depew says. “For Witch, which I just did at N.C. Stage, I knew

that that kind of Jacobean clothes and what I had in mind was not something that I could buy. I knew my stock at school didn’t have them, and I knew N.C. Stage didn’t have it. So, I made all of those clothes. And I don’t normally build that much.”

Depew sources some materials from JOANN Fabric and Crafts in Asheville and Foam & Fabrics Outlet in Fletcher. However, she mostly orders online, though she notes that those distributors are drying up, which makes navigating them more difficult than usual.

“The trick with buying online is you just have to have a really good background in fabric to know what you’re looking at. Like, ‘Is this going to be the appropriate weight, feel, flow, type, drape, color? What am I looking at? What are the words about this fabric? When they say jacquard, do they really mean brocade?’” she says.

“You have to really read between the lines and figure out what you’re looking at so that you get what you think you’re going to get — or have the time to order swatches and then make choices.”

While it’s essential that the actors have what they need and that her costumes fit with the director’s and scenic designer’s visions, Depew also relies on personal pride to know that she’s done a good job. Like Ross, she enjoys watching each show as an audience member and gauging the reactions of those around her, but usually waits until the production’s second week to give herself some distance.

“You get to see the show from a perspective that you don’t have when you’re watching it in tech,” she says. “You can also sometimes measure [success] by whether those people want to work with you again.”

RETRO REVIVAL: Props proved key to recreating 1930s New York City in N.C. Stage Company’s 2023 production of Jeeves Takes a Bow. Photo courtesy of N.C. Stage Company

FOUR OF A KIND

by Edwin Arnaudin | earnaudin@mountainx.com

Insiders assess the local art scene

Jennifer Trudrung is an Ashevillebased actor, writer and filmmaker.

Xpress: Is there an upcoming film event happening in Asheville that you’re looking forward to seeing?

I’m very excited about the Spring 2024 Cat Fly Indie Film Fest happening Thursday, May 23-Sunday, May 26. The filmmaker-founded Cat Fly has consistently showcased and celebrated regional filmmakers and creatives. They are great about introducing new and important voices in film and supporting them. And I love that they show the films in such unique and cool venues all around Asheville. It’s a lot of fun.

Outside of film, what other upcoming local arts happening intrigues you?

I’m really interested in checking out the exhibit Evan Kafka: Trophies and Billboards Selfies at the Blowers Gallery in Ramsey Library on UNC Asheville campus. His photos will be on exhibit there until Sunday, May 5. Evan [who is based in Asheville] is a phenomenal photographer with a resume that will make you feel intimidated until you meet him and realize he’s just a remarkably kind person with impeccable talent.

What current project are you working on that you’re especially excited about?

I’m in the process of working with Tabitha and Mason McDonald of Dark Red Horror to pitch The Biting Time, a feature-length cosmic horror screenplay. I’m superexcited about my script and the possibility of getting it made as it’s deeply personal and also incredibly timely as it deals with the real-life horror of dementia. It’s a dark tale with a big heart. I also have a short film, Hickory Dickory Dock, that began its film festival run at the awesome Panic Fest [in early April]. All the cast and crew on the short film are Asheville based, and I’m incredibly lucky to be surrounded by so much support and talent. X

Jaze Uries is an Asheville-based multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter and DJ.

Xpress: Is there an upcoming music event happening in Asheville that you’re looking forward to seeing?

Though I am excited about the growing genres of artists coming to Asheville, I desire more diversity. As it currently stands, I feel there are genres and styles that I resonate with that I generally have to travel out of town to see. Though I see myself as a unique artist who draws inspiration from all types of music, I would find a lot of value in seeing more acts that look and sound like me because they can speak to me in ways others can’t.

Outside of music, what other upcoming local arts happening intrigues you?

I love food, and culinary art events are my favorite to attend. My friend Jefferson “JD” Ellison is hard at work developing a festival tentatively titled Bite Me that I am really rooting for. It’s slated to loosely replace Chow Chow and take place Wednesday, Aug. 14-Sunday, Aug. 18. There are so many visionaries in this town, and the intention behind this event is stellar. Connecting culture and food is imperative to our synergy as human beings. It’s how we stay in tune with one another and that’s why I do my best to attend as many as I can. This one will further display Asheville’s commitment to Black culture. l can’t wait!

What current project are you working on that you’re especially excited about?

Earlier this year, I leaned fully into my artist name, YAHZAY, and am

really excited to continue performing my latest album, LIONHEART. I am also loving coproducing and working closely [playing drums] with my homies in The Get Right Band. It has been amazing stretching our different sounds to form new works and textures. We are excited to share new music with our fans really soon. X

JENNIFER TRUDRUNG

Photo by Parker J. Pfister

JAZE URIES

Photo by Daniel Jeffries

Logan Hall is an Asheville-based graphic designer and owner of Logarhythm Creative. He also plays in the band Pink Beds.

Xpress: Is there an upcoming visual arts event happening in Asheville that you’re looking forward to seeing?

I’m looking forward to visiting Creative Hangouts hosted by AIGA Asheville. It’s a presentation/panel discussion and social of top Ashevillebased creative professionals, and [it] hosts a different topic each third Thursday of the month [at Mojo Event Hall, 81 S. Broadway]. Whether navigating the waters of a creative career, juggling artistic passions with professional demands or simply seeking inspiration from like-minded creatives, this event is for you.

Outside of visual arts, what other upcoming local arts happening intrigues you?

I can’t wait for the second year of AVLFest, Thursday, Aug. 1-Sunday, Aug. 4. Last year laid the groundwork and went off without a hitch, and I’m excited to see how much better round two will be. [Festival organiz-

er/co-founder] Jeff Whitworth and his team are putting Asheville’s local music scene on the map with this one.

What current project are you working on that you’re especially excited about?

I’ve worked with Asheville-based outdoors company Eagles Nest Outfitters over the past year on an artist series ENO hammock that I got to illustrate and design. [It’s] so cool! ENO evokes a sense of nostalgia and general good times outdoors for me, and I was honored to be asked to collaborate with them on something others can use and enjoy in the outdoors. Be on the lookout for the release later this year.

Over the past few years, I’ve also worked closely with the FloydFest music festival’s team on their branding and artwork, and I am so looking forward to seeing this year’s festival come to life. This will be the first festival in its new home, Festival Park [in Floyd, Va., Wednesday, July 24-Sunday, July 28], and it will be superrewarding to see my work help brand the new space and to help a greater dream manifest. X

Leah Solita Mangum is an Asheville-based potter and jewelry maker, and the owner of of Solita Designs.

Xpress: Is there an upcoming craft event happening in Asheville that you’re looking forward to seeing?

I’m looking forward to this summer’s Southern Highland Craft Guild show [Thursday, July 18-Sunday July 21] at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center to see the newest members in ceramics and jewelry that have been accepted into the guild this past year. The guild is accepting new members and starting to add a lovely balance of new local artists to the community of traditional craftspeople who have been at the heart of the craft scene in this area for decades. There are so many amazing artists that are inspired by our local natural landscape that I am excited to see and be inspired by.

Outside of craft, what other upcoming local arts happening intrigues you?

I am also looking forward to checking out AVLFest [Thursday, Aug. 1-Sunday, Aug. 4] to see some of my favorite local bands, new bands and experience the variety of fun venues Asheville has to offer. As an Asheville local, I miss the days where downtown had street festivals and citywide music events. AVLFest is our newest festival exhibiting the vibrant music scene Asheville loves and supports so much. It seems that Asheville attracts so many incredible musicians, and I love being exposed to new sounds and new bands.

What current project are you working on that you’re especially excited about?

I am currently developing geometric ceramic wall pieces that allow me to play with depth, variation in surface texture and also allow me to experiment with different firing processes available to me at my studio at the Village Potters. I am using gas and electric kilns, and alternative firings in raku and kazegama kilns to explore different glaze surfaces on slab built sculptures for the wall. These will be able to be displayed on their own or grouped into installation type arrangements — think shapes, atmosphere, texture, elements and depth. I hope to display these together in a collection late this summer or this fall. X

LEAH SOLITA MANGUM

Photo by Anna Bryant

LOGAN HALL

Photo by John Dupre

What’s new in food

Chef Cleophus Hethington offers culinary expression of African diaspora

If it’s been a minute since you’ve experienced chef Cleophus Hethington’s culinary expression of the African diaspora, mark your calendar for 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, April 25, when the finalist for the 2022 James Beard Emerging Chef award returns to Asheville for a one-night stand at Devil’s Foot Beverage Co.’s The Mule. The Chef’s Experience Dinner is the April event in the recurring AVL Food Series presented by Devil’s Foot Beverage Co. and Shay Brown’s Shay & Co.

Hethington became known to Asheville as chef de cuisine when he landed at Benne on Eagle in August 2021, succeeding opening chef Ashleigh Shanti and Malcolm McMillian. During his tenure, the Miami-raised Hethington entirely flipped the menu, introducing dishes like Haitian griot, Ghanaian red red

and pepperpot stew from Guyana. He pulled inspiration from South America, the Caribbean and Africa, and paid homage to his late grandmother with his Grandma Daisy Mae sweet potato pie.

Hethington departed Benne in June 2022, returned to Miami for a position as chef de cuisine at Zak the Baker (a James Beard Award finalist for Best Bakery in 2023), and has most recently been working in Charlotte. He hasn’t been entirely absent from Asheville, popping back into town as a featured chef for events at Cultura, The Blind Pig Supper Club and Chow Chow 2023’s James Beard Dinner.

After hearing about the debut Chef’s Experience Dinner with chef Michelle Bailey in March, Hethington reached out to Brown, and she jumped at the opportunity to feature him.

“Shay asked me to prepare four courses plus an amuse-bouche for the cocktail hour,” Hethington says. “The dinner will focus on the African diaspora, which is what people know me for.”

Among the dishes will be a Senegalese-inspired lamb dibi, which he describes as lamb marinated overnight, skewered, grilled and served with three dipping sauces, including a collard green kimchi jus.

“The second course is based off things I grew up eating in South Florida and the Caribbean that are still part of my diet,” he explains. “Cassava braised in sake, turmeric and saffron with a Cuban coffee take on red-eye gravy and jamon.”

The third course pulls from a visit to the Yucatan peninsula — a fish dish with rice pancakes and greens. Daisy Mae’s sweet potato pie will conclude the meal.

Each event in the AVL Food Series designates a nonprofit for a portion of proceeds. Hethington has chosen EatWell Exchange, whose mission is to empower low-income communities to eat a nutritious diet within their own food culture.

Tickets for the Chef’s Experience are $127.50 with wine pairings; $97.50 for dinner only with cocktails available separately. In addition to alcohol-based options, The Mule offers an inclusive zero-proof menu of nonalcoholic beer, wine and cocktails.

FLAVORS OF THE DIASPORA: Chef Cleophus Hethington will cook a fourcourse dinner for the AVL Food Series on Thursday, April 25, at The Mule. Photo courtesy of Shay & Co.

The Mule at Devil’s Foot Beverage Co. is at 131 Sweeten Creek Road. For details and tickets, visit avl.mx/dkc.

A threat to Southside Community Farm

Southside Community Farm, a Black-led urban farm formed by residents to address neighborhood food insecurity, is in danger of losing its land and seeks support from community members. A resolution brought to the March 27 Housing Authority of the City of Asheville board of directors meeting proposed dismantling the farm’s primary growing space, which is on HACA-owned land, to make way for a youth activity area.

The resolution states that the farm, which occupies around half an acre behind HACA’s Arthur R. Edington Education and Career Center on Livingston Street, “does not provide a direct benefit to the residents of the HACA in a significant enough manner to justify its use of the HACA property.”

Established in 2014, Southside Community Farm focuses on growing and distributing fresh food at no charge to local residents and offers educational programs for all ages. It also operates a free community refrigerator and hosts a tailgate mar-

ket the first Sunday of each month May-October for vendors who identify as people of color.

“We want HACA to preserve Southside Community Farm, to not pass this resolution and to ensure that the community has access to vital resources the farm provides,” says farm manager Chloe Moore. “We are not opposed to more playground space in the neighborhood, but when there is a playground right down the street at Herb Watts Park, it would be a huge mistake to destroy the farm.”

Moore urges those wishing to advocate for the farm to sign its petition with positive comments of support and to attend the next HACA board of directors meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 24, at the Edington Center, 133 Livingston St.

For more details and to sign the petition, visit avl.mx/dkx.

Souper bowl fundraiser

Soup or salad, that is, and a beautiful handmade ceramic bowl to boot. On Sunday, April 21, Bountiful Bowls will be staged 1-5 p.m. outside the atrium of the Sherrill Center at UNC Asheville. The event is free to attend, but the sale of bowls is a fundraiser for Bountiful Cities, the Asheville-based nonprofit dedicated

to sustainable agriculture and longterm food security.

Buy a bowl in advance or on-site (prices are on a sliding scale), then fill it with “stone soup” or panzanella salad made with donated, upcycled produce to honor Food Waste Reduction Month in Asheville and Buncombe County. For $25, attendees can also register for a cooking class taught by plant-based nutrition expert and professor Amy Joy Lanou that will explore techniques for reducing food waste and preparing delicious dishes with local produce.

Firefly Valley Pottery will lead a hands-on experience with clay, and the UNC Asheville Student Environmental Center will conduct activities celebrating Earth Day.

The UNC Asheville Sherrill Center is at 227 Campus Drive. For more information and to register, visit avl.mx/dk6.

Spirited support

Asheville-area restaurants are once again activating the Benevolent Spirits fundraising campaign through Sunday, May 12, to support the ongoing work of World Central Kitchen. The global, food-focused disaster relief nonprofit run by celebrity chef José Andrés lost seven team members in early April to an Israeli military strike in Gaza.

Asheville restaurateurs Meherwan

Irani of Chai Pani Restaurant Group and Katie Button of Katie Button Restaurant Group announced the new campaign via social media on April 9. Participating bars and restaurants in Asheville and around the U.S. are offering featured Benevolent Spirits cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks for which $1 from each sale will be donated to WCK.

In the past, Benevolent Spirits campaigns have supported the Building Markets nonprofit feeding survivors of the 2023 earthquakes

in Syria and Turkey, World Central Kitchen’s work to feed refugees in the Ukraine and other efforts.

For more details and a list of participating businesses, visit avl.mx/dl2.

Tee up against hunger

Contrary to Mark Twain’s dismissal of golf as a “good walk spoiled,” Food Connection is offering a good day for a good cause with its second Golf Against Hunger fundraiser on Monday, April 22, at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Participation includes 18 holes of golf (golf cart included, no walking required!), complimentary beer, wine and soda all day, a catered buffet lunch, prizes and swag. Registration is $200 per person.

Food Connection is a local nonprofit that rescues surplus professionally prepared food, repacks it into meal-sized containers and distributes it to communities in need.

Omni Grove Park Inn is at 290 Macon Ave. To register, visit avl.mx/dk7.

Dining for dollars

On Thursday. April 25, nearly 50 Asheville restaurants will participate in Western North Carolina AID Project’s 22nd annual Dining Out for Life, a partnership that shines a light on local restaurants and raises funds for WNCAP. The organization provides care, medical case management, housing assistance, prevention education and outreach across 18 counties in WNC in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.

Participating restaurants donate 20% of the day’s sales to WNCAP, and diners will have the opportunity on-site to contribute directly to WNCAP.

For a list of DOFL restaurants, visit avl.mx/dk8.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 48

Thursday, April 25th is Kids’ Day!

Our kids’ activity is cupcake decorating with Bri McColl of Budgie’s Bakeshop!

Thursdays 3:30-6:30

April 18-October 31

• 15 different rotisserie-grille meats & signature items served right at your table

• Full bar with fine wines • Expansive salad bar and delectable desserts

• Serving dinner every night and brunch on Sat & Sun • Live music on Fridays

• Sunday brunch for only $34.95

Spring flours

Carolina Ground’s upcoming pop-up market — 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sunday, April 21, at its facility in Hendersonville — will offer ingredients for home bakers as well as already-baked goodies for those who would rather dig right in. In addition to Carolina Ground’s locally grown and ground flours, cornmeal, polenta and grits, there will be baked goods, eggs, honey and sorghum along with coffee, botanical-dyed yarns, books and more. Vendors will include Beeswax + Butter, Milk Glass Pie, OWL Bakery, West First Bakehouse, Bryson Homestead and Independent Bean Roasters.

Carolina Ground is at 1237 Shipp St., Hendersonville. For details, visit avl.mx/pry0.

Down to Earth Day

Celebrate Earth Day with a feast at Bargello restaurant 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Monday, April 22. Executive chef Tyler Slade will source from local farmers and purveyors including Sunburst Trout, Three Graces Dairy, Dr. King’s Bison Farm and Blue Ridge Rabbit Meat Co. to create five courses that will be paired with beverages from Sideways Farm & Brewery. Tickets are $95 per person. Bargello is at 7 Patton Ave. To reserve seats, visit avl.mx/dka.

Cheers to Hendersonville

Wineries, cideries and a meadery are pouring the juice for Hendersonville’s 2024 Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend, Friday, April 19-Sunday, April 21.

MOVIE REVIEWS

Eleven locations will offer a busy slate of activities that include tours, tastings, live music, chocolate, snacks, s’mores by the fire, a seated dinner, helicopter tours of the vineyards and — as expected in the Blue Ridge Mountains — hikes and yoga.

For a schedule of events and locations, visit avl.mx/cl4.

Brew, too

Whatever brew you do — beer or coffee — you can fill up at the Appalachian Mountain Brewery taproom in Mills River, which has dedicated a permanent space for Trail Marker Coffee Co.’s coffee trailer. Get your morning started or perk up your afternoon slump (7 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Saturday) with a double shot espresso, latte, chai latte, fruit smoothie and a baked good from the Trail Marker window. Co-owner and operator Jared Edwards describes the venture as a marriage of his love of coffee and mountain living; the company’s logo is an illustration of a cairn topped with a coffee mug. TMCC sources its coffee solely from Boone’s Bald Guy Brewing.

In addition to AMB’s year-round and special series brews, hard ciders, wine, house cocktails and Athletic brand nonalcoholic beer, the brewery offers a menu of small bites, sandwiches, sides and salads starting at 11 a.m. seven days a week.

Appalachian Mountain Brewery and Trail Marker Coffee Co. are at 46 N. Mills River Road, Mills River. For more details, visit http://avl.mx/dkq.

Barn Door changes course

Barn Door Ciderworks in Fairview launches its 2024 season on Friday, April 19, with a new operating model. The taproom will be open only the third weekend of each month with planned activities. Fridays will feature live music, Saturdays will offer popular cider and cheese flights, and on Sundays, Little Oven Pizza Truck will be making wood-fired pizzas.

CIVIL WAR: Writer/director Alex Garland (Annihilation) presents a chilling vision of a near-future U.S. divided by fascism and violence. It’s the year’s best film thus far. Grade: A-minus — Edwin Arnaudin Find

Barn Door produces barrel-aged dry cider on-site and, in addition to its cider, serves small bites, beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages in its taproom. Hourlong tasting tours have also been added for visitors interested in learning about the behind-the-scenes operations.

Barn Door Ciderworks is at 23 Lytle Road, Fletcher. For more information, visit avl.mx/9ni. —

Around Town

Tyger Tyger features paper-themed exhibit

Woman-owned art gallery Tyger Tyger will host an opening reception for I Will Tell You Mine, an exhibition of works on paper, Friday, April 19, 6-8 p.m. Mira Gerard, the gallery’s founder, put out an open call earlier this year as a way to connect with emerging and established artists from around the globe. Their works display a variety of methods and materials centering on the malleability of paper.

The exhibition’s title is a quote from Mary Oliver’s poem “Wild Geese,” which reminds Gerard of the communal aspect of emotional life. “Works on paper can often have a sense of intimacy,” she says, “because for most of us, paper is the first place we had where we could journal our thoughts, and as children, paper is the surface we are usually given to make art upon. It is absorbent, tactile, and it responds to the materials added to it in a beautifully sensitive way.”

Though Gerard admits the curation process was challenging at times, she is proud of the variety and artistry in the collection, as well as the relationships her gallery is able to build with the artists. “The amazing outpouring of artwork we received from around the world, along with the intense process of selecting work, were pretty fantastic,” she says. “The most rewarding thing is happening now: receiving the accepted submissions and seeing them in person, while communicating with the artists one-on-one.”

Featured artists include Navi Naisang , Taro Takizawa , Sue Crawford , Kaysha Siemens , Christopher Burk , Suzanne Dittenber and Petey Brown, among others. The exhibition will remain on display until Sunday, May 26.

Tyger Tyger Gallery is at 191 Lyman St. No. 144. For more information, visit avl.mx/dky or contact Jenna at jenna@tygertygergallery.com.

New memoir from Nancy Dillingham

No Time Like the Present, a new memoir by acclaimed local poet and author Nancy Dillingham , is available for preorder from Redhawk Publications.

The memoir is a first for Dillingham, who has written over 20 novels and has taught writing through the

Great Smokies Writing Program.

According to a press release, No Time Like the Present dives more deeply into her personal experience than her previous work, including her heritage in the Big Ivy region of Western North Carolina, where her family has lived for six generations. “This memoir is a paean to Dillingham, the small community that shaped me and the remarkable individuals who populated it,” says Dillingham in the release. “Their stories, their vernacular and their storytelling inspired me to become a writer and a reader. No Time Like the Present is a celebration of those cherished memories and the enduring values instilled in me by my upbringing.”

No Time Like the Present is scheduled for release in midspring and is available at avl.mx/dkz.

WNC FiberFest returns

The 12th annual FiberFest will be held at the WNC Farmers Market on Saturday, April 20, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Originally called Fiber Feel Day, the festival was founded by Local Cloth, a volunteer-led nonprofit network of over 500 small-scale artists, farmers and fiber producers. It serves as an outlet for members to connect with one another and to showcase their textiles and fiber art to the public. Although live animals will not be part of the event, attendees will have the chance to interact with raw wool and experience the fiber-making process with hands-on needle felting. “Folks will leave with local, homegrown fiber that has a name and a story,” says Elizabeth Strub of Hobbyknob Farm. “We believe this connection — between producer and consumer — is essential not only to the sustainability of local fiber farms and fiber arts communities but also to our world.”

The event is free and will offer educational activities for the whole family on the process of fiber production. For children and teens interested in learning more, Local Cloth offers summer day camps on sewing and farm-to-fabric techniques. This year’s FiberFest will coincide with the WNC Farmers Market Spring Festival & Growing in the Mountains Plant Sale, which runs Friday, April 19-Sunday, April 21.

PAPER PIECES: Artist Christopher Burk’s “Illuminated Conifer with Yellow Moon” is one of several works featured in a new exhibit at Tyger Tyger Gallery. Photo courtesy of Tyger Tyger Gallery

FiberFest will take place in shed No. 3 at 570 Brevard Road. For more information, visit avl.mx/9cg.

Plant pop-up market

The Canopy at Art Garden AVL is hosting its monthly plant pop-up market on Saturday, April 20, this time with a twist. The market, which takes place every third Saturday of the month, features an array of houseplants and native medicinals from local growers as well as handmade pots, art, herbal tea and salves, and more. In honor of 4/20, the market will be marijuana-themed, featuring cannabis-related art, unusual houseplants, local smokables and a new cannabis coloring book unveiled by local painter Annie Kyla. The market is free to join and to attend.

Art Garden AVL is at 191 Lyman St., No. 320. For more information, visit avl.mx/d24.

Benefit concert at RAD Brewing

River Arts District Brewing Co. will host Hope Springs Eternal, a musical benefit in support of BeLoved Asheville, on Tuesday, April 23, 6-10:30 p.m.

The event will feature five live musical acts, with all benefits supporting BeLoved’s work with under-

served and homeless communities of Asheville. Alan Graf, guitarist for jazz-infused funk rock trio While Rome Burns, put the benefit together as a way to connect with other activists and members of the community. “I live right near downtown and I wanted to do something for my houseless neighbors,” Graf says.

“Melissa McKinney [lead singer with Mama & the Ruckus] suggested that we do a benefit for BeLoved Asheville, as they are very effective in what they do, providing medical, food and housing.”

Other performers include Isaac Hadden, Ovadya — a rock band with Middle Eastern and modal influences — and Peggy Ratusz, who was voted 2016’s Artist Who Gives Back. Tickets cost $22.50.

River Arts District Brewing Co. is at 13 Mystery St. For tickets or more information, visit avl.mx/dl0.

Different Wrld moves out

Different Wrld, a creative venue in West Asheville, is losing its space at the end of the month.

Its space at 701 Haywood Road. also the home of event venue The Mothlight, and the ceramic studio Half Light Honey, was purchased last month. The future of the current tenants remains unknown.

Honey Simone, Nettie Fisher and Roxanne Snider opened Different Wrld in 2021 to create a space where underrepresented artists could practice their art, collaborate and build community. Different Wrld announced the move on Facebook along with plans to raise funds for a new location: “We have been grassroots since the beginning & will continue to build on the support of those who have caught the vision & understand the importance of blackowned, queer, trans & femme lead spaces especially in the south.”

The popular Filipinx restaurant Neng Jr.’s is in the same building but has not announced whether it will be relocating.

For more information about the move or to support Different Wrld visit avl.mx/dl1.

— Oby Arnold

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm

ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO.

Trivia Trivia!, 6:30pm

BARLEY'S TAPROOM & PIZZERIA

Trivia Night w/ PartyGrampa, 7pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY

Tin Roof Echo (folk), 8pm

EULOGY

Wolves in the Taproom: Black Metal Night, 7pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers & Friends (jamgrass), 6:30pm

HI-WIRE BREWING

BIG TOP Trivia, 7pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Well-Crafted Music w/ Matt Smith, 6pm

IMPERIÁL

DJ Otto Maddox (soul, funk), 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Bluegrass Jam w/Derek McCoy & Friends, 6pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night Wednesday w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8pm

SHAKEY'S Sexy Service Industry Night, 10pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic, 8pm

THE DRAFTSMAN

BAR + LOUNGE Trivia Nights, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Patio: The Mallett Brothers Band (rock'n'roll, Americana, country), 5:30pm

THE JOINT NEXT

DOOR

Cinnamon Gem (Indierock, Americana, R&B), 7pm

THE MONTE VISTA

HOTEL Music Wednesdays, 5pm

THE ODD

Flummox, Bad Ties & Roamck (alt-rock, grunge, indie), 8pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK

MOUNTAIN Dan's Jam (bluegrass), 7pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Trivia, 6:30pm

THURSDAY,

APRIL 18

27 CLUB

Dark Hand, Split in Two & Awful Prophet (metal, deathcore), 9pm

ASHEVILLE GUITAR

BAR

MGBs (acoustic), 7:30pm

CROW & QUILL

Momma Molasses (country, swing, folk), 8pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY

Karaoke, 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Drook, Convalescent & Feeling Format (indie, pop, emo), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead (Grateful Dead & JGB Tribute), 6pm

HI-WIRE BREWING

BIG TOP Survey Says, 7pm

IMPERIÁL DJ Roselle (multigenre), 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

LAZOOM ROOM BAR & GORILLA

Modelface Comedy Presents: Gilbert Lawand, 7:30pm

LOOKOUT BREWING CO.

Music Bingo Thursdays, 6:30pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Kid Billy (Americana, blues, indie-folk), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING Blase (indie), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Andrew Scotchie (rock'n'roll, blues, Americana), 6:30pm

SHAKEY'S Comedy Showcase w/ Hilliary Begley, 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Karaoke Night, 8pm

THE OUTPOST Summer Like The Season (indie-rock), 7:30pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Vince Junior Band (blues, Appalachian-soul), 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Sold Out: The Driver Era (alt-indie, pop-rock, electronic), 8pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN

Jack Miller & Paul McIntire (folk-pop), 7pm

THE RIVER ARTS DISTRICT BREWING CO.

Acoustic Blues w/ Peggy Ratusz & Kelly Jones, 6pm

CLUBLAND

COSMIC COUNTRY: On Wednesday, April 24, Stetson’s Stink Bug Bourbon Band brings its blend of cosmic country and Americana to Eda’s Hide-a-Way in Weaverville, starting at 8 p.m. Photo courtesy of Rey Castillo Jr.

THE STATION BLACK

MOUNTAIN

Mr Jimmy (blues), 6:30pm

URBAN ORCHARD

CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE

Bachata Thursdays, 8:30pm

WICKED WEED BREWING

Andy Ferrell (folk, blues, bluegrass), 5pm

FRIDAY, APRIL 19

27 CLUB

Council Ring, Dirty Bird & Shed Bugs (psychrock, pop, funk), 9pm

ASHEVILLE BEAUTY

ACADEMY

P*rn Star Karaoke, 10pm

ASHEVILLE GUITAR

BAR

Mr Jimmy's Friday Night Blues, 7:30pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Minnesota, Abelation, Zeplinn & Shakes (electronic, dubstep), 9pm

CATAWBA BREWING

CO. SOUTH SLOPE

ASHEVILLE

• Comedy at Catawba: Sammy Anzer, 7pm

• JORTS: Standup Comedy Showcase, 9pm

CORK & KEG

Bayou Diesel (Cajun, Zydeco), 8pm

CROW & QUILL

Sunny Side Jazz Quartet, 8pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY

The 40, 20, 10's (Americana), 9pm

EULOGY

• Pylon Reenactment Society w/Pinkeye & Minorcan (alt-indie, rock), 8pm

• Iglesia del Perreo w/ DJ Grimmjoi, 11pm

FLEETWOOD'S The Welcoming, Bombay Gasoline & Oh! You Pretty Things (electro-rock, metal), 8pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Krave Amiko (indie, alt-pop), 7pm

IMPERIÁL

DJ Lake Solace & James Nasty (hip hop, future beats, r&b), 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Charlotte Bluegrass All-Stars (bluegrass, newgrass), 9pm

LA TAPA LOUNGE

Open Mic w/Hamza, 8pm

MAD CO. BREW HOUSE

John Friday (rock, folk, country), 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Raphael Graves (Americana, folk), 8pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

• Free Dead Friday w/ Dirty Dead, 6pm

• Barefuzz (rock, psych), 10pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Noche Latinx w/M A R & The Marmeladies (indie, cumbia, folk), 8pm

SALVAGE STATION

Houndmouth w/Future Killer (alt-blues, rock), 7pm

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

27 CLUB

Hashwitch, Weight Shift & Kalgon (psych, stoner-doom, metal), 11pm

ASHEVILLE CLUB

Mr Jimmy (blues), 6pm

ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR

Vince Junior Band (blues, Appalachian soul), 7:30pm

BATTERY PARK BOOK

EXCHANGE

Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 6pm

CORK & KEG

The Uptown Hillbillies (honky-tonk, country), 8pm

CROW & QUILL

Drayton & The Dreamboats (vintage-jazz, rock'n'roll), 8pm

DSSOLVR

Just Incense: 4/20 Denver Comedy Showcase, 10:30pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY

Jesse & The Jugs (honky-tonk, rock'n'roll, bluegrass), 8pm

EULOGY Weedeater (thrash, metal), 8pm

SHAKEY'S Big Blue Jams Band (multiple genres), 9pm

SHILOH & GAINES

81 Drifters (bluegrass, Americana, folk), 9pm

SILVERADOS

Chapel Hart w/Isa Morin & The Ali Randolph Band (country), 7pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Corey Bowers (country, blues), 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: Company

Swing (swing, jazz, blues), 5:30pm

• Young Dubliners w/ Dylan Walshe (Celtic, rock), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Kindred Company (alt-rock), 7pm

THE ODD Small Doses, Reckless Threat, On The Block & Zillicoah (indie, punk), 9pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK

MOUNTAIN Broken Sound (Americana), 7pm

THE STATION BLACK

MOUNTAIN

Vaden Landers (country), 6pm

URBAN ORCHARD

CIDER CO. SOUTH

SLOPE

Trippin' Up the Stairs (Celtic, Irish, old-time), 6pm

VINTAGE KAVA

The Candleers (country), 8pm

WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT

Owen Walsh (folk), 7pm

WRONG WAY RIVER

LODGE & CABINS

Bad Dads Comedy, 7:30pm

FLEETWOOD'S Powder Horns, Lion County Safari, Coyotes & Perishes (rock'n'roll), 8pm

GINGER'S REVENGE

Modelface Comedy Presents: Gluten-Free Comedy, 7pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Adam Knight’s Buried Alive (Phish Tribute), 6pm

HIGHLAND BREWING

DOWNTOWN

TAPROOM Brady Turner (pop, soul, R&B), 6pm

IMPERIÁL DJ Nex Millen (hip hop, oldies, R&B), 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Bluegrass Brunch w/ The Bald Mountain Boys, 12pm

• Nobody’s Darling String Band, 4pm

Mama & The Ruckus (blues, rock, soul), 9pm

LA TAPA LOUNGE Karaoke, 9pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Hammock Theory (reggae, funk, rock), 8pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL Squeaky Feet (trance, jazz-funk, rock), 9pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

• 5J Barrow (folk), 4pm

• The Doors: Unhinged w/Reggie Headen (The Doors tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Phuncle Sam (Grateful Dead tribute), 6:30pm

REZONANCE

Canna Comic Cuisine?, 7:30pm

SALVAGE STATION

Lissie w/The Wandering Hearts (Americana, indie-pop), 8pm

SHAKEY'S

• Friday Late Nights w/

DJ Ek Balam, 12am

• Trash Talk Queer

Dance Party & Drag Show, 10pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Free Flow Band (funk), 9pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: Carpal Tullar (rock, pop), 5pm

• Satsang w/Tim Snider (blues, folk, reggae), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Sal Landers’ Party Rx (rock'n'roll), 7pm

THE ODD

Party Foul Drag: Saturday Night Tease, 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Sold Out: The Wallflowers w/Santiago y Los Gatos (rock), 8pm

THE OUTPOST

The Tortured Partiers Department, 8pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN

Dave Desmelik (alt-country, folk, Americana), 7pm

THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN

Live Music Saturday Nights, 7pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE

Drag Show Spectacular w/DJ RexxStep, 7:30pm

WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT

DJ Molly Parti, 7pm

SUNDAY, APRIL 21

27 CLUB

Blistering Dissonance, Zombii & The Ruff’tons (pop-punk), 9pm

ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO.

Reasonably Priced Babies Comedy, 6:30pm

CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE ASHEVILLE

Comedy at Catawba: Salma Zaky, 6:30pm

EULOGY Helado Negro w/ Marem Ladson (alt-indie), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Best Ever Karaoke w/ Chelsea, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa, 3pm

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

Jazz Sunday's, 2pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

• Sugar Bomb (jazz, indie), 2pm

• Sunday Salsa on the Rooftop, 6pm

IMPERIÁL

DJ Ek Balam (hip hop, electronic, funk), 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Bluegrass Brunch w/ The Bluegrass Brunch Boys, 12pm

• Traditional Irish Jam, 3:30pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO.

San Moss (folk), 7pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

The Lads (rock, blues), 3pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Carolina Sage (country, swing), 10pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Pisgah Sunday Jam, 6pm

RIVERSIDE

RHAPSODY BEER CO.

Drinkin' N Thinkin' Trivia, 5:30pm

S&W MARKET

Mr Jimmy (blues), 1pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Cosmic Appalachian

Soul Sundays, 7pm

THE DRAFTSMAN

BAR + LOUNGE

Karaoke Nights w/Lyric, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Burlesque Brunch, 12pm

• Patio: Jim Swayzee & Annie Myers (folk, rock), 5:30pm

Jeremy Pinnell w/Time Sawyer (country), 8pm

THE OUTPOST

Dirty Dead (Grateful Dead tribute), 4pm

MONDAY, APRIL 22

27 CLUB Karaoke Monday, 9pm

5 WALNUT WINE BAR

CaroMia, Rahm, Iannuci & Jaze Uries (dreampop, soul, R&B), 8pm

EULOGY

Sun Room (surf-rock), 8pm

HI-WIRE BREWING

RAD BEER GARDEN

Hot Mic w/Taylor Knighton, 6pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Geeks Who Drink Trivia, 6pm

Weekly Events! MON: Industry Night

TUE: Open Mic

• WED: Trivia

• THUR: Karaoke

FRI

81 DRIFTERS

Swing, Jamgrass, Blues, Folk 4/19

SAT

FREE FLOW

The Guardians of Funk 4/20

ANDREW THELSTON BAND

FRI

Voted #1 Favorite Rock Band in 2023 Best of WNC, Mountain Xpress 4/26

Your neighborhood bar no matter where you live. 21+ ID REQUIRED • NO COVER CHARGE 700 Hendersonville Rd • shilohandgaines.com

7 Year Anniversary Party

4/20

Celebrate

7 years of Hillman Beer with live music, food, and a new beer release.

Live Music Lineup:

Lyric 1-4pm Rich Nelson Band 5-8pm

food. music. beer. community. and maybe a train or two .

Wednesday, 4/17 at 7pm live music with Dan's Jam

Thursday, 4/18 at 7pm live music with Jack miller & Paul mCIntIre

Friday, 4/19 at 7pm live music with broken sound

Saturday, 4/20 at 7pm live music with dave desmelik

dine & Dance! visit smoke & ember at the railyard whole hog bbq, hardwood-smoked chicken, dry-rubbed ribs, homemade sides, and the authentic flavors of traditional nc bbq

*vegan & gluten-free options!*

Details, food menus and more at railyardblkmtn.com

25 Sweeten Creek Rd. Open 11am-11pm

www.hillmanbeer.com

live music + 15 screens of sports + full bar + tasty eats + ice cream sammies + fun for the family open til 11 pm | kitchen closes 10 pm on fri and sat

141 RICHARDSON BLVD - BLACK MOUNTAIN

Largest inventory selection in Western North Carolina for over 25 years

Thousands of items to choose from 20% off One Item Expires April 30, 2024

828-684-8250

Open 9-11pm

CLUBLAND

IMPERIÁL

DJ Nex Millen (latinx, Bossa Nova, jazz-funk), 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Quizzo! Pub Trivia w/ Jason Mencer, 7:30pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Takes All Kinds Open Mic Nights, 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Open Mic Night, 7:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Mashup Mondays w/ JLloyd, 8pm

SALVAGE STATION

The Mountain Goats w/ Katy Kirby (indie-rock, folk), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Mr Jimmy & Friends (blues), 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Beach Fossils (indierock, dream-pop), 8pm

THE RIVER ARTS DISTRICT BREWING CO. Trivia w/Billy, 7pm

TUESDAY, APRIL 23

27 CLUB Second Wind, Bangladeafy, Curbside

Loveseat & Bruschetta Delorean (noise-rock, psych), 9pm

ARCHETYPE BREWING

Trivia Tuesday, 6:30pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

HI-WIRE BREWING

Themed Trivia w/Not Rocket Science Trivia, 7pm

IMPERIÁL

DJ Mad Mike (multigenre), 9pm

LOOKOUT BREWING CO.

Team Trivia Tuesday's, 6:30pm

MAD CO. BREW HOUSE

Team Trivia Tuesday's, 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Team Trivia, 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

The Grateful Family Band Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute), 6pm

SHILOH & GAINES Open Mic, 7pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Tuesday Night Open Jam, 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE John Mailander’s Forecast (jazz, rock, folk), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

The Lads (rock, blues), 6pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Rawayana w/DJ Malintzin (funk, salsa, reggae), 8pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Tango Tuesdays, 6pm

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm

ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO.

Trivia Trivia!, 6:30pm

BARLEY'S TAPROOM & PIZZERIA

Trivia Night w/ PartyGrampa, 7pm

DIFFERENT WRLD Everybody But You Bro Open Mic, 6pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY

Stetson's Stink Bug Bourbon Band (country, Americana), 8pm

EULOGY

Santiago y Los Gatos (indie-rock, pop, soul), 6:30pm

FLEETWOOD'S Busy Weather, The Carolyn & Eaten By Snakes (punk), 8pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers & Friends (jamgrass), 6pm

HI-WIRE BREWING BIG TOP Trivia, 7pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Well-Crafted Music w/ Matt Smith, 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Bluegrass Jam w/Derek McCoy & Friends, 6pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Parker Zelter & Friends (Americana), 10pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Latin Night Wednesday w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8pm

SALVAGE STATION

Hayes Carll & The Band of Heathens (country, rock, blues), 8pm

SHAKEY'S Sexy Service Industry Night, 10pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Poetry Open Mic, 8pm

THE DRAFTSMAN

BAR + LOUNGE Trivia Nights, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: Sara Jean Kelley (Americana, pop, country), 5:30pm

• Wisp (shoegaze, indie), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Circus Mutt (Folk, Americana), 7pm

THE MONTE VISTA HOTEL

Music Wednesdays, 5pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK

MOUNTAIN

Dan's Jam (bluegrass), 7pm

URBAN ORCHARD

CIDER CO. SOUTH

SLOPE

Trivia, 6:30pm

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

ASHEVILLE GUITAR

BAR

The Travelling Pilsburys (acoustic), 7:30pm

BATTERY PARK BOOK

EXCHANGE

Mike Kenton & Jim Tanner (jazz), 5:30pm

CROW & QUILL

Meschiya Lake & The Moodswingers, 8pm

CULTURA

Vinyl Night w/DJ Lil Meow Meow, 8pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY Karaoke, 8pm

EULOGY

Pageninetynine w/ Massa Nera, Private Hell & Serrate (punkrock, metal), 8pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead (Grateful Dead & JGB Tribute), 6pm

HI-WIRE BREWING

BIG TOP

Survey Says, 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Bluegrass Jam w/ Drew Matulich, 7pm

• Sour Bridges (bluegrass), 7pm

LOOKOUT BREWING

CO.

Music Bingo Thursdays, 6:30pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Collin Cheek (Appalachian, Americana), 7pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING

Kid Billy (Americana, blues, indie-folk), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Hammock Theory (reggae, funk), 8pm

SALVAGE STATION

Saint Asonia w/Kingdom Collapse (rock, alt-metal, post-grunge), 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES Karaoke Night, 8pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Stand Up Comedy for Your Health, 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: The Lads (rock, blues), 5:30pm

• Scott H. Biram (country, metal, bluegrass), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Creative Differences (Americana, rock), 7pm

THE ODD

Elixir Magic Burlesque, 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Nora En Pure (electronic, deep-house), 9pm

THE OUTPOST

Quinn Sternberg (jazz, rock), 8pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN

Dan Signor (rock, soul), 7pm

THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN

Mr Jimmy (blues), 6:30pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE

Bachata Thursdays, 8:30pm

WICKED WEED BREWING

Hope Griffin Trio (Americana, folk), 5pm

ARIES (March 21-April 19): I suspect two notable phenomena will coalesce in your sphere sometime soon. The first is a surplus supply of luck. I’m not sure why, but the fates will be sending surges of good karma your way. The second phenomenon is this: You might not be entirely alert for the potential luck flowing in your direction, and it may not leap out and grab you. That could be a problem. Fortunately, you are reading this oracle, which means you are getting a heads-up about the looming opportunity. Now that you realize you must be vigilant for the serendipitous blessings, I’m confident you will spot them and claim them.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You will be wise to summon extra love and rapport as you ruminate on your vivid upcoming decisions. Wouldn’t you like to bask in the helpful influences of smart allies who respect you? How nurturing would it feel to receive healing encouragement and warm appreciation? I suggest you convene a conference of trusted advisors, good listeners, sunny mentors, wisdom keepers, and spirit guides. Maybe even convene a series of such gatherings. Now is an excellent time to call in all your favors and get the most inspirational support possible as you navigate your way to the next chapter of your life story.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): If you drink alcohol, don’t operate a forklift or backhoe. If you gamble, protect yourself with safeguards and have a backup plan. If you feel called to explore altered states of consciousness, consider doing meditation, dancing, or chanting holy songs instead of ingesting drugs. If you have an itch to go hang-gliding or sky-jumping, triple-check your equipment. And if you have the urge to try to walk on the water, don a lifejacket first. But please note, dear Gemini: I am not advising you to timidly huddle in your comfort zone. On the contrary. I highly recommend you stretch your limits. Just be secure and smart as you do.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): I plotted out my usual astrological reckonings for your current destiny. Then I slipped into a meditative trance and asked the spirits to show me future scenes that correspond to my assessments. In one prominent vision, I beheld you partying heartily, navigating your avid and inquisitive way through convivial gatherings. In other scenes, I saw you engaged in lively discussions with interesting people who expanded your understanding of the meaning of life in general and the meaning of your life in particular. I conclude that intelligent revelry will be a main theme for you. Productive excitement. Pleasurable intrigue. Connections that enliven and tonify your imagination.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The theory of synchronicity proposes that hidden patterns are woven into our lives. Though they may ordinarily be hard to detect, they can become vividly visible under certain circumstances. But we have to adjust the way we interpret reality. Here’s a clue: Be alert for three meaningful coincidences that happen within a short time and seem related to each other. I predict the emergence of at least one set of these coincidences in the coming weeks — maybe as many as four. Synchronicities are coming! You have entered the More-Than-Mere-Coincidence Zone.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Psychologists J. Clayton Lafferty and Lorraine F. Lafferty wrote a book called Perfectionism: A Sure Cure for Happiness. It’s based on their work with clients who damaged their lives “in the illusory pursuit of the unrealistic and unattainable standard of perfection.” In my observation, many of us are susceptible to this bad habit, but you Virgos tend to be the most susceptible of all. The good news is that you now have an excellent chance to loosen the grip of perfectionism. You are more receptive than usual to intuitions about how to relax your aspirations without compromising your competence. As inspiration, consider these words from author Henry James: “Excellence does not require perfection.” Leadership expert

R. R. Stutman adds: “If perfection is an obstacle course, excellence is a masterful dance.”

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Everyone is a moon and has a dark side which they never show to anybody,” wrote author Mark Twain. I agree that everyone is a moon and has a dark side. But it’s important to note that our dark sides are not inherently ugly or bad. Psychologist Carl Jung proved to me that our dark sides may contain latent, wounded, or unappreciated beauty. To be healthy, in fact, we should cultivate a vigorous relationship with our dark side. In doing so, we can draw out hidden and undeveloped assets. The coming weeks will be a favorable time for you Libras to do this.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Your current state has metaphorical resemblances to idling in your car, waiting and waiting and waiting for the red light to change. But here’s the good news: I expect the signal will turn green very soon — maybe even within minutes after you read this horoscope. Here’s more good news: Your unlucky number will stop popping up so often, and your lucky number will be a frequent visitor. I’m also happy to report that the “Please don’t touch” signs will disappear. This means you will have expanded permission to consort intimately with influences you need to consort with.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I think it’s time to graduate from your lessons in toxic kinds of enchantment and launch a new experiment with healthy kinds of enchantment. If you agree, spend the next few days checking to see if any part of you is numb, apathetic, or unreceptive. Non-feelings like these suggest you may be under the enchantment of influences that are cramping your imagination. The next step is to go in quest of experiences, people, and situations that excite your imagination, rouse your reverence, and raise your appreciation for holy mysteries. Life will conspire benevolently on your behalf if you connect yourself with magic, marvels, and miracles.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Luther Burbank (1849–1926) was a practical artist. Using crossbreeding, he developed over 800 novel varieties of vegetables, fruits, grains and flowers. Among his handiwork was the russet Burbank potato, a blight-resistant food designed to help Ireland recover from its Great Famine. My personal favorite was his Flaming Gold nectarine, one of the 217 fruits he devised. I propose that Burbank serve as your role model in the coming weeks. I believe you have the power to summon highly pragmatic creativity.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): L. R. McBride wrote the book The Kahuna: Versatile Mystics of Old Hawaii. He describes the role of the kahuna, who is a blend of sorcerer, scholar and healer. At one point, a kahuna gives advice to an American tourist, saying, “You have moved too fast for too long. You have left part of yourself behind. Now you should slow down so that part of you can catch up.” I’m offering you the same advice right now, Aquarius. Here’s your homework: Dream up three fun things you can do to invite and welcome back the left-behind parts of you.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In the course of my life, I have heard the following three statements from various people: 1. “Everything would be better between us if you would just be different from who you are.” 2. “I would like you more if you were somebody else.” 3. “Why won’t you change to be more like the person I wish you would be?” I’m sure you have heard similar pronouncements yourself, Pisces. But now here’s the good news: I don’t think you will have to endure much, if any, of such phenomena in the coming months. Why? First, because you will be more purely your authentic self than you have ever been. Second, because your allies, colleagues, and loved ones — the only people who matter, really — are likely to be extra welcoming to your genuine self.

ANNOUNCEMENTS |

RENTALS

HOMES FOR RENT

NEW DUPLEX UNIT FOR RENT New fully furnished private 1500 sq. ft. 1 bedroom unit in West Burnsville. Easy access to I-26. 45 minutes to Asheville. $1500 long or short term. Utilities included. 2 person maximum. Discount for seniors. Call or text Red at (954) 496-9000

EMPLOYMENT

SKILLED LABOR/ TRADES

TLC SCHOOL FACILITIES AND LAND MANAGER

Maintenance, development of facilities, land. Bachelor's in environmental science, resource/facilities management, or related field. 2 years experience. Knowledge of landscaping, horticulture, sustainable practices. Chainsaw training, engine repair, trail construction, ability to lift 50#. thelearningcommunity.org

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.

TEACHING/ EDUCATION

KINDERGARTEN/FIRST

PIANO & VOICE TEACHER AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC SCHOOL Asheville Music School is looking for an experienced teacher specializing in both voice and piano private lesson teaching. Submit resume to info@ashevillemusicschool. org 8282526244 ashevillemusicschool.org

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

24/7 LOCKSMITH We are there when you need us for home & car lockouts. We'll get you back up and running quickly! Also, key reproductions, lock installs and repairs, vehicle fobs. Call us for your home, commercial and auto locksmith needs! 1-833-237-1233. (AAN CAN)

GRADE ASSISTANT TEACHER Qualifications: 2 years of experience in elementary classroom, conversational Spanish skills, willing to drive a 14-passenger van daily (to/ from downtown Asheville), bonus coaching middle school XC, flag football, and/or basketball teams! thelearningcommunity.org

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-292-8225 Have zip code of property ready when calling! (AAN CAN)

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES

In as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months!  Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 1-877-510-9918. (AAN CAN)

GOT AN UNWANTED CAR? Donate it to Patriotic Hearts. Fast free pick up. All 50 States. Patriotic Hearts’ programs help veterans find work or start their own business. Call 24/7: 1-855402-7631. (AAN CAN)

NEED NEW WINDOWS?

Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames? Need outside noise reduction? New, energy efficient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & FREE quote today. 1-877-248-9944. You will be asked for the zip code of the property when connecting. (AAN CAN)

PAYING TOP CA$H FOR MEN'S SPORT WATCHES

Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. Call 1-855402-7109 (AAN CAN)

STOP OVERPAYING FOR AUTO INSURANCE A recent survey says that most Americans are overpaying for their car insurance. Let us show you how much you can save. Call now for a no obligation quote: 1-866-472-8309

TOP CASH PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. 1-855-402-7208. (AAN CAN)

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION A small amount of water can lead to major damage and mold growth in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! Call 24/7: 1-888-2902264 Have zip code of service location ready when you call! (AAN CAN)

YOU MAY QUALIFY For disability benefits if you have are between 52-63 years old and under a doctor’s care for a health condition that prevents you from working for a year or more. Call now! 1-877-247-6750. (AAN CAN)

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

SUMMER LEARN TO ROW CAMPS FOR KIDS AGES 11 THRU 18 Asheville Youth Rowing Association is offering summer learn to row camps for kids ages 11 thru 18. There are three different weekly camps available: June 17 thru 21 from 9 am to noon each day July 15 thru 18 from 9 am to noon each day August 12 thru 16 from 9 am to noon each day. All camps are held at the Asheville Youth Rowing boathouse in Lake Julian Park. To register go to ashevilleyouthrowing. com

FOR MUSICIANS

MUSICAL SERVICES

MUSIC FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT

Local experienced musician available for your celebrations, birthdays, anniversaries, wedding rehearsal dinners, or any special event. Playing pop, rock, R&B, Motown, and classic vocal jazz. dancnshoes7@gmail. com

PEST CONTROL Protect your home from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-237-1199. (AAN CAN)