Mountain Xpress 03.25.26

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR: Jeff Fobes

ASSISTANT PUBLISHER: Susan Hutchinson

MANAGING EDITOR: Thomas Calder

EDITOR: Gina Smith

OPINION EDITOR: Tracy Rose

STAFF REPORTERS: Thomas Calder, Brionna Dallara, Justin McGuire, Gina Smith

COMMUNITY CALENDAR & CLUBLAND: Braulio Pescador-Martinez

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Jon Elliston, Mindi Meltz Friedwald, Peter Gregutt, Rob Mikulak

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Emily Klinger Antolic, Christopher Arbor, Edwin Arnaudin, Danielle Arostegui, Mark Barrett, Eric Brown, Cayla Clark, Molly Devane, Ashley English, Merin McDivitt, Mindi Meltz Friedwald, Troy Jackson, Bill Kopp, Chloe Leiberman, Anabel Shenk, Jessica Wakeman, Jamie Zane

PHOTOGRAPHER: Caleb Johnson

ADVERTISING, ART & DESIGN MANAGER: Susan Hutchinson

LEAD DESIGNER: Scott Southwick

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Caleb Johnson, Olivia Urban

MARKETING ASSOCIATES: Sara Brecht, Dave Gayler

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES: Jeff Fobes, Mark Murphy, Scott Southwick WEB: Brandon Tilley

A vote for reviving passenger rail

[Regarding “Back on Track?

Optimism Builds for Asheville Passenger Train Revival as Funding Challenges Loom,” March 11, Xpress:]

Thank you, Xpress, for the good work you do.

Does anyone really want to say “no” to mass transit of any kind? That is the hard-core question. The data that needs to be provided anytime political leaders want to pursue this or the general public thinks, “It would be great” is: What is the return on value, short and long term, to residents and businesses of North Carolina? Tourism, agriculture, general business, environmental value and damages, etc, etc. Access.

This is the first question. The second question is: Will that Asheville route get appreciated and utilized? Are the end and beginning points sensible or convenient? This is the Southeast USA, so the ramp-up time once built will take longer then usual.

After living in Atlanta over 25 years, watching the historic MARTA commuter subway and much later the fabulous Beltline — 22 miles of

walkways and bicycle paths — no one understood how much the “people” craved the opportunity to leave their cars at home.

It turned out to be “priceless” for the residents and the environment, with a huge increase in businesses around the mass transit and very attractive to visitors. I never thought I would see the day where people who live, work and play would never need a car and this metropolitan population would feel more connected to their community, the city, suburbs, health care, etc.

So I am not comparing this rail to Atlanta’s projects, but leave the emotion out of it and really know the science of it. And? It will never get any less expensive — just ask California.

So, I vote yes, just do it.

— Vikki Dibble Asheville X

Numbers don’t add up for rail service

[Regarding “Back on Track? Optimism Builds for Asheville Passenger Train Revival as Funding Challenges Loom.,” March 11, Xpress:]

our local communities for the better and ‘raise all boats.’”

One of the great needs here in WNC is people who can be advocates for children who have been neglected or abused and are in the state’s custody.

Losing between $1 million and $5 million a year by implementing a 19th-century transportation alternative is irrational.

The benefits presented by the proposal are mainly in the form of a government work program. Residual economic benefits from tourism are at best speculative.

Charming as passenger rail systems are, this proposal is farcical.

— Guy Smith Woodfin X

Consider volunteering as a child advocate

There are so many needs here in Western North Carolina — it’s hard to know where to start if you want to volunteer and make a difference.

I’ve always thought, “If I could positively impact the life of one child, and if others were to do the same, imagine how that could change the dynamic of

Word of the week

averruncate (trans. v.) 1. to ward off or avert; 2. to weed out; uproot; remove

Merriam-Webster notes this is an obsolete word, but that’s only because it’s been averruncated from our daily use. Let’s bring it back! (Also, the word’s second definition felt fitting for our cover story.)

This advocate role, called “Guardian ad Litem” (GAL), gives people looking to give back an opportunity to look out for the best interests of these children — to be their voice in court and to support their needs and wishes, interacting with the child/children in their case, their foster parents or kinship placements, their teachers, guidance counselors and family members.

Guardians ad Litem receive training from experienced staff, where they learn about the agencies involved in protecting children, how the court works, what the role is, etc.

As a GAL, you can get as involved as you feel comfortable and give back in a most important and rewarding way.

There are many cases that need a GAL — and the next training is coming up in April! Please consider becoming a GAL. Here are three ways to get started: email GAL.DIST40@nccourts. org; call 828- 259-3443; or apply on the website [avl.mx/ekj].

— Susan G. Knapp Guardian ad Litem since 2020 Fairview X

Proposed rate hikes aren’t reasonable

I have written to Gov. Josh Stein, Attorney General Jeff Jackson and the N.C. Utilities Commission (NCUC) to reject Duke Energy Progress’ (DEP) proposed nearly 20% residential

rate increase over two years. These increased costs will further burden Western North Carolina residents at a time when we are still recovering from rising costs due to Helene, inflation caused by the war in Iran, massively increased food costs, unaffordable home prices and rising rents.

If electricity demand is increasing due to power data centers, require the tech companies to cover increased costs of their power needs. If investment is required to reduce our demand for electricity or support solar, battery or wind alternatives, explain it to me, and I will write you a check!

These companies are protected monopolies. They deserve a fair return to attract investment. I equate “fair” to the return on a 10-year Treasury bill, not 10.95%! I ask that the NCUC agree to cap their guaranteed return at 4%!

I do my part, keeping my thermostat at 60 degrees F in the winter and 80 degrees F in the summer; running the dishwasher and clothes washers during discount or off-peak times; adding film insulation to my windows in winter.; participating in the DEP demand response and Flex Savings programs.

The NCUC mandate includes “provide just and reasonable rates and charges for public utility services and promote conservation of energy.” The requested DEP rate increase is anything but “just and reasonable.”

Mountain Xpress readers can submit comments to [avl.mx/ffu].

Or attend the public hearing on April 14 at the Haywood County Courthouse, 285 N. Main St., Waynesville. — David C. Dixon Asheville X

CARTOON BY RANDY MOLTON

Fork in the road

After nearly 60 years, can Asheville finally build a performing arts center?

BY ARNOLD WENGROW

At Asheville City Council’s Feb. 24 meeting, Chris Corl, the city’s director of community and regional entertainment facilities, announced a plan to reserve a 2.4-acre parcel just south of Pack Square Park for a development that could include a 2,500-seat performing arts center. On March 24, Council was scheduled to vote on whether to hold the site for up to two years.

This is the time for a closer look at Asheville’s nearly 60-year effort to build a major arts center. Why did earlier efforts fail? What problems did they encounter? What lessons can be learned? And what is different this time?

When I arrived in Asheville in 1970 to launch a new drama program at UNC Asheville, I became involved with the Civic Arts Council, the umbrella organization for the city’s “big four”

arts groups: the Asheville Symphony, the Asheville Art Museum, Asheville Community Theatre and the Colburn Mineral Museum.

Voters had recently approved bond issues for a convention center ($4 million) and a stand-alone arts center ($1.3 million — about $11 million in today’s dollars). The vision was ambitious: a cultural complex housing the city’s major arts organizations under one roof.

ARTS CENTERS DISAPPEAR, REAPPEAR, DISAPPEAR

Rising construction costs, however, quickly torpedoed that plan, and despite opposition from stakeholders, the city merged the convention center and arts center into a single development. The “new” Asheville Civic Center would incorporate a renovated

City Auditorium; the stand-alone arts center disappeared.

Asheville Community Theatre withdrew and built its own downtown home. The two museums accepted cramped space in the Civic Center basement. The City Auditorium was renovated in 1974, and the following year saw the opening of the revamped performance space, now called the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.

But by the mid-1980s, it was clear that the Civic Center had fallen short of its cultural promise. Pack Place, a new arts center, opened on Pack Square in 1992. It repurposed the old Pack Library, with new construction wrapped around it, to house the art museum, the mineral museum, The Health Adventure and a new 500-seat Diana Wortham Theatre.

Over time, however, Pack Place unraveled as its partners grew and went their separate ways. The Health Adventure closed after a failed attempt to build a facility in Montford. The art museum expanded into the vacated Health Adventure space. The mineral museum became the nucleus of the Asheville Museum of Science in the Wells Fargo Building on Patton Avenue. Thomas Wolfe, meanwhile, continued to age and malfunction, and the symphony decamped to the First Baptist Church.

In the early 2000s, symphony supporters formed the Asheville Area Center for the Performing Arts to pursue a new hall. IRS filings show that over more than a decade, the organization spent nearly $1.5 million developing plans, hiring staff and identifying a site near Pack Square. But that effort, too, ultimately stalled.

WHERE WE ARE NOW

The current plan grew out of two distinct threads. In 2018, Chris Corl reached out to ATG Entertainment, a London-based global venue operator, about the possibility of building and managing a new hall in Asheville. And in August 2023, ArtsAVL (formerly the Asheville Area Arts Council) convened a town hall on the future of Thomas Wolfe. A smaller stakeholder group continued meeting with consultants, and their joint recommendation was to build a new facility rather than renovate the existing one.

Those two threads converged on June 24, 2025, when the city signed a memorandum of understanding with the company. ATG has substantial credentials. It owns seven Broadway houses as well as historic theaters in other major American cities. It has a production company that mounts Broadway shows. ATG actively manages its venues and programs them with more than 15,000 performances a year.

The memorandum, however, is explicitly nonbinding. It establishes up to two years to study the project’s economic and cultural impact, develop a business plan and design the building, but ATG’s potential financial participation is described as preliminary: If the studies don’t reach favorable conclusions, either party can walk away.

Four community partners have been identified: the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, ArtsAVL, Explore Asheville and the Asheville Symphony. Daniel Crupi, the symphony’s executive director, confirmed to me that his group could increase its total number of performances by up to 50%. Corl, however, acknowledged that the symphony would initially be the only resident company, as it’s the only local arts organization that consistently draws more than 2,000 people to a single performance.

That raises a central question: What fills the rest of the calendar?

Supporters frequently cite the Peace Center in Greenville, S.C., as a model. Broadway tours are the star attraction for its 2,100-seat hall, and it also hosts several resident companies. But Upstate South Carolina is home to roughly 1.5 million people. Asheville’s regional population, dispersed across several mountain counties, is less than one-third of that.

Besides, Greenville and Asheville are only about 63 miles apart, and Broadway touring contracts commonly include what’s called a “radius clause,” which limits how close in geography and timing another performance may take place. For “first-class” national tours — Equity productions with full sets, costumes and orchestra — those

ARNOLD WENGROW

“After decades of reaching, Asheville may be closer than ever to realizing its long-deferred vision.”

protections could limit scheduling possibilities.

QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS

I asked Corl whether ATG has committed to booking such productions in Asheville. How would conflicts with the Peace Center be handled? His answer was careful. ATG, he said, would “work toward” shows comparable to those presented in Greenville and in major venues in Greensboro, Durham and Charlotte.

There’s also a practical design issue. A stage engineered for large Broadway tours, with a tall fly tower and expansive wing space, is different both architecturally and acoustically from a hall optimized for symphony performances. The current proposal envisions a single shared space.

Crupi says the symphony “fully intends to be an active partner” in designing the facility. The goal, he explains, will be to ensure that the hall “meets the technical demands of touring productions while also deliver-

ing the acoustic integrity required for symphonic music.”

But how those competing needs are reconciled will determine the building’s long-term effectiveness. Musical acoustics are notoriously tricky. The New York Philharmonic’s hall at Lincoln Center required multiple rounds of renovation and reconstruction over 60 years before the problems were finally fixed.

On the demand side, Corl cited data from Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville showing that about 60% of ticket buyers come from outside the Asheville area. Excluding symphony performances, the figure rises to 72%.

Tourism marketing could expand the potential audience pool. But those statistics also raise additional questions. Will occasional visitors who attend a one-night concert also subscribe to a multishow Broadway season?

WHERE WE GO NEXT

The planned market and impact studies must answer these questions:

Potential funds

Key milestones in Asheville’s recurring efforts to build a performing arts center include the decadeslong initiatives of the Asheville Area Center for the Performing Arts (AACPA).

Formed in 2007, the AACPA obtained an agreement from City Council in 2008 to reserve for 10 years a city-owned parcel just south of Pack Square near City Hall, Eagle Street and the historic East End neighborhood.

The nonprofit spent the next decade commissioning feasibility studies, developing preliminary architectural concepts and exploring a capital campaign. Those efforts are significant because they established the same downtown site and roughly the same scale of facility that the city is now discussing with ATG Entertainment.

I asked AACPA President Michael Stoll how his group fits into the current plans. “We met with ATG at the start of their discussions with the city,” he said, “and recognized that a project of this scale must be led by the City of Asheville.”

The nonprofit’s charter, he pointed out, dictates that the approximately half a million dollars remaining in its treasury must be used solely to help fund a performing arts center for Asheville and the region. “Our board meets April 1,” Stoll explained, “to discuss the eventual disposition of these donations, but I can tell you that we will wait for the outcome of the memorandum of understanding.”

As recently as 2016, the group had more than $1 million in assets, tax filings show. But by the following year, the amount had been reduced by about half due to write-offs of $110,592 in uncollectible pledges and $389,412 in “construction in progress determined by management to no longer represent a future benefit to the organization.” Rather than physical construction materials, Stoll explained that the write-offs covered intangible assets — detailed preliminary studies and planning for three different centers at three locations.

Nonetheless, continued Stoll, the group “takes seriously its responsibility to hundreds of donors who have shown their confidence in our organization’s ability to fulfill our charter. Naturally, if we may support the city’s efforts, we will be glad to do so.” X

Is there a large enough base of repeat ticket buyers to support weeklong Broadway runs? How many local households will commit to multishow subscriptions? Will Biltmore Estate visitors and Beer City travelers add Broadway to their itineraries? Can Asheville reliably secure first-class shows given Greenville’s proximity? And once the performing arts center is up and running, will ticket revenue, rentals, sponsorships and tourism dollars cover operating costs?

For now, as Corl emphasized, neither ATG nor the city has committed to the project. But after decades of reaching, Asheville may be closer than ever to realizing its long-deferred vision. Will the numbers support the dream?

Arnold Wengrow managed the Mount Airy Fine Arts Center, founded the drama program at UNC Asheville and ran its theater for 25 years. He has written for the magazines Theatre Design & Technology and Entertainment Design. His books include The Designs of Santo Loquasto and If the Song Doesn’t Work, Change the Dress: The Memoirs of Broadway Costume Designer Patricia Zipprodt. X

SUMMER MUSIC CAMPS

Asheville Music School is offering more than a dozen summer music camps for kids ages 4-18. Weeklong sessions begin Monday, June 15 and run through Friday, Aug. 14. You can find all listings at ashevillemusicschool. org/summer-camps. X

Remembering The Big Flush

BY MICHAEL L. HOLCOMBE SR.

Thirty years ago this month, the entire City of Asheville water transmission and distribution systems were thoroughly cleansed, or “flushed,” for the first (and, as yet only) time!

I was the director of water resources for the city at that time and was fortunate to be able to lead a team of dedicated employees who planned, rehearsed and pulled this anxiety-laden operation off without a hitch.

A water system plague of turbid water had become endemic. Whenever there was a transmission or major distribution system waterline break, customers were all negatively impacted and inconvenienced by muddy water. Commercial and industrial establishments and residences were all affected. This had to be addressed.

The last attempt to comprehensively “flush” the sediment out of system lines had been made in 1965, which was only partially effective and did not begin at the water sources themselves. Flushing is achieved by targeting increased flow through the lines, thereby creating turbulence, which loosens and lifts sediment.

The 36-inch steel main transmission line from North Fork Reservoir and Water Treatment Plant, which carried all the city’s treated drinking water, had never been out of service (since 1962), and its “blow-off” valves and other appurtenances had never been exercised. The risk of failure had to be considered and addressed.

The sources themselves were the origin of the problem. Lake inversion, or “turnover,” can occur semiannually in the

spring and fall. Driven by temperature change, warmer water inverts, and lower, colder waters arise. This stirs up sediments, which were drawn directly into the transmission system at the North Fork and Bee Tree reservoirs (before filtering in the 1970s and ’80s). The sediment accumulated over decades and would be transmitted downstream whenever flows increased rapidly, as in the case of a large waterline break.

Planning to address this as a major project (which would affect all water system customers) began in 1995. Initially planned for the fall of 1995 after leaf season, it was rescheduled for two weekends in the spring of 1996. Full departmental rehearsals with all staff were conducted. Communications about the event, how to prepare and what to expect were publicized and mailed out to all water system customers. All customers were advised to fill bathtubs and containers prior to the initiation of the event, in case of unanticipated service disruption.

The Big Flush teams began functioning on the weekend of March 15-17 and completed the weekend of March 22-24, 1996. Aided by the operation of the East Asheville Booster Pump Station, the execution was successful, and the impact was substantial. Muddy water complaints dramatically reduced thereafter, and moreover, chlorine usage (the primary disinfectant) at the North Fork and Bee Tree water plants was reduced by 40%; and drinking water odor and taste were improved. The Big Flush was a cost-effective solution that was planned to be repeated biannually.

The Public Employees Roundtable in 1996 recognized The Big Flush “for uniting the Water Resources Department and the Asheville-Buncombe community in a collaborative partnership that resulted in an overwhelming success.”

Asheville native Michael L. Holcombe Sr. recently published The Story of Asheville’s Water; Before and Beyond Hurricane Helene, available at area bookstores and on Amazon. He and his wife, Pam, have five children and four grandchildren, and enjoy traveling to various points on the

MICHAEL L. HOLCOMBE SR.

NEWS Third act

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

Organizers across Western North Carolina say a series of No Kings protests has already reshaped local civic engagement, and they expect that momentum to continue when No Kings 3.0 takes place Saturday, March 28, in communities including Asheville, Hendersonville and beyond.

The demonstrations are part of a nationwide day of action coordinated by the Indivisible Project. Locally, organizers say the first two events — held on June 14 and Oct. 18 last year — drew large crowds while expanding networks, launching new groups and bringing first-time participants into sustained civic activity.

The No Kings rallies are meant to protest what organizers describe as authoritarian and violent policies of President Donald Trump and corruption in his administration.

“I think it’s raised the awareness of a lot of people that they are not alone in their feelings of just basically horrors,” says Sue Hall, a spokesperson for Indivisible Henderson County, which is organizing the March 28 Hendersonville rally with Persist of Henderson County and other groups.

That sense of connection has translated into measurable growth, Hall says. Indivisible Henderson County and the other groups have seen attendance and volunteer participation increase following each rally, while neighbor-

ing counties have begun forming their own chapters.

“We have a large group locally. And Polk County has a new group that was founded by people who have been coming to our Henderson County group,” Hall explains. “There’s been multiple Indivisible groups that have cropped up, and within those groups, the attendance has been amazing.” She adds that 66 people showed up for the first Polk County meeting.

No Kings Polk County will be held at Stearns Park in Columbus, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Organizers describe the protests as catalysts for continued engagement. Many attendees who initially came to demonstrate have since joined organizing efforts, volunteered or taken part in outreach campaigns.

“I think everyone has their own gifts as far as what they can do to help,” Hall says. “Some people are organizers and go out and do rallies. Other people help by talking with their friends about the issues, by cooking a meal for a meeting or making signs.”

‘PICK YOUR POISON’

In Buncombe County, organizers report similar effects. Robin Lively Summers, president of Indivisible Asheville, says the earlier No Kings events have served as an entry point for thousands of residents.

“It’s changing faster than I can keep track of, to be honest with you, but at the last No Kings, 50% of the people

WE THE PEOPLE: An Oct. 18 No Kings rally drew about 2,000 protesters to downtown Hendersonville. Photo by Justin McGuire

who spoke to me said, ‘I’ve never done this before, but I need to do something,’” Lively Summers recalls.

That influx of new participants has led to expanded organizing capacity.

“It’s more than just showing up for a protest,” Lively Summers says. “It’s taking another step, donating to mutual aid, joining a canvass or a tabling event, showing up to a training, doing the five calls and talking to their congressman and not just being angry about it, but actually expressing their anger.”

Lively Summers says No Kings 3.0 was initially organized around election issues, including voter rights and access to polling places ahead of the 2026 general election on Nov. 3. Local organizers noted ongoing barriers to registration and voting, such as the State Board of Elections’ decision to close early voting sites at Western Carolina University and other colleges, and regional groups have formed election-focused committees and partnered with organizations such as the League of Women Voters to increase participation.

But she says the focus has since expanded in response to national and international events that have happened since the last rally. “Now it’s like the war in Iran,” she says. “Pick your poison. What is upsetting you? What is keeping you up at night? Because all of [those causes] need you.”

INCREASED TURNOUT

Henderson County events have drawn an estimated 2,000 to 4,000 participants, Hall says, while Asheville rallies have grown from several thousand to as many as 11,000, depending on estimates. Given past growth and signs of interest, organizers expect those numbers to increase again on March 28, with Asheville projections nearing 15,000 attendees, according to Lively Summers. Beyond numbers, organizers point to less visible outcomes: stronger coordination among local groups and a broader regional network of activism. The March 28 event in Henderson County is being organized in partnership with Persist of Henderson County, Hendersonville Pride, Henderson County NAACP and the Progressive Alliance of Henderson County — relationships organizers say have strengthened since earlier rallies. “We are working with multiple groups that are working toward the same principles of rule of law and protecting our immigrant community, basic human kindness,” Hall explains. “We have become more aware of all the different people who are feeling that same way.”

The events have also helped normalize participation, reducing hesitation among residents who previously felt disengaged or isolated.

“I think it helped a lot of people feel less isolated about their feelings about what’s going on currently,” she says.

In Asheville, Lively Summers says that visibility has created additional momentum.

“I almost feel like if you have a grievance with what’s going on in our government and in our country, you don’t want to miss one of these,” she says. “This is what we’re all doing. FOMO [fear of missing out] is real.”

Organizers say that growing participation has required more structured planning, including communication systems, volunteer coordination and safety measures. While previous events have remained peaceful, groups have implemented trained safety marshals and coordination with local authorities.

“We’re not looking to make other people angry,” Hall says. “We’re looking to invite people to join us.”

As No Kings 3.0 approaches, organizers say the focus remains on translating turnout into sustained action. Many groups now operate committees focused on issues such as election protection, immigration and youth engagement, with additional support from organizations like the League of Women Voters.

“If you’re concerned about your government and you don’t know how to help, come and see us,” Lively Summers says. “We’re going to have lots of people passing out flyers with ways to help and to get involved, and we need all hands on deck, because it’s getting crazy.”

Here’s a list of No Kings 3 events happening in WNC on Saturday, March 28:

• Asheville — Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza, 1-3 p.m.

• Black Mountain — Black Mountain Town Square, 100 E. State St., noon-2 p.m.

• Brevard — Broad Street sidewalk, 7 E. Main St., 2-3:30 p.m.

• Burnsville — Town Square, Main Street, 2-4 p.m.

• Columbus — Stearns Park, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m

• Hendersonville — Henderson County Courthouse, 200 N. Grove St., Suite 163, 2-3:30 p.m.

• Spindale — Spindale House,119 Tanner St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Sylva — Fountain at Jackson County Public Library, 310 Keener St., noon-2 p.m.

• Waynesville — Haywood County Courthouse, 285 N. Main St., 1-3 p.m. X

Commission approves amendments for 5 conservation easements

The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners, at its March 17 meeting, approved five budget amendments for conservation easements from its open space bond fund, a $30 million general obligation (GO) bond to fund land conservation, greenway projects and passive recreation.

Ariel Zjip, county farmland preservation manager, explained to commissioners that two conservation easements have been donated from Dador Farms on Brush Creek Road in Fairview. One is 31.5 acres, largely forested but with some corn crops; the other is 65 acres and largely forested.

The two properties will enlarge an existing easement from Dador Farms. Together, the donations require $100,400 in transaction costs from the county budget’s annual allocation of conservation easement funds (also known as the special projects fund).

Tom Fanslow, land protection director for Conserving Carolina, shared information on the additional three easements.

The Duck Branch conservation easement, a 62-acre project in Black Mountain, will protect 1,600 feet of the view along the Black Mountain Rag on the North Carolina scenic byway. It requires $21,000 from the special projects fund and $155,000 from the GO bond.

The Light Center Nature Preserve is on 112 acres along the Rocky Broad River in Black Mountain. Currently owned by United Research Inc., the property includes a meditation dome, a labyrinth and a library that are open to the public. The easement acquisition

AT EASE: Ariel Zjip, Buncombe County farmland preservation manager, addresses the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners about two conservation easements during the board’s March 17 meeting. Screen grab courtesy of Buncombe County’s YouTube channel

request for the Light Center Nature Preserve is $282,000 from the GO bond.

The final property is the Light Center Farm, which encompasses 13 acres on Rocky Broad River and Duck Branch. There is an easement acquisition request of $46,000 from the GO bond; the transaction cost was previously funded from a previous year’s annual budget, Zjip told Xpress

The commission unanimously approved the budget amendments. “In 2022, this County Commission set a goal of preserving 20% of our acreage by 2030, and I think we’re closing in on that goal,” said Commissioner Drew Ball “At some point, it would be great to hear where we are.”

Fire protection tax report

Fire Marshal Kevin Tipton provided the commission with a report on a

unified fire district so that the board may consider adoption of a unified fire service protection district tax.

Buncombe County is served by 19 fire departments across 20 fire service districts, Tipton explained. Fire protection is primarily funded through property taxes levied in each district. However, the amounts vary by district, which means there is aging equipment and uneven staffing across districts.

According to Tipton’s report, “This fragmented system means where you live determines the level of fire protection you receive, which is inconsistent with the county’s commitment to equitable public safety. This variance is not a reflection on the skill and abilities of various fire departments but fundamentally a reflection of a financial model where certain districts cannot sustain a basic level of service.”

A unified rate would ensure that each district is funded equally, Tipton explained.

The commission will hold a public hearing on the proposed unified tax rate at its Tuesday, April 21, meeting, when an ordinance vote is also scheduled. If approved, the unified tax rate will be included in the county’s recommended budget, which is to be voted on Tuesday, June 2.

Deaverview Mountain purchase approved

The commission voted to approve a resolution authorizing the $8 million purchase of the 342 acres of Deaverview Mountain. Approximately 315 acres of

the property will be put into a conservation easement.

In April 2023, after being approached by the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC), the commission passed a resolution to explore creating a county park on the mountain. In May 2023, the commission allocated $7.7 million from GO bonds for the development; SAHC and the county have received numerous other grant funds as well.

Allison Dains, director of Buncombe County Parks & Recreation, said the purchase closing date will happen this month. However, Dains told Xpress it’s not yet known when the project will be open to the public, as it lacks infrastructure such as parking. “The full build-out of the project will take several years,” she explained.

For more information about the Deaverview property, visit http:// avl.mx/ffp.

In other news

• During the county manager’s report, county Property Assessor Eric Cregger provided an update on property assessment and the appeals process. Owners should be currently receiving new notices of value in the mail. All values are also available online at avl.mx/ffr. For more information on clinics to appeal a property valuation, visit avl.mx/ffs. The deadline to file an initial appeal is Tuesday, May 5. Learn more at avl.mx/fft.

• The commission voted to accept a $100,000 grant from the N.C. Community Disaster Relief Fund. The grant will support mental health training, case manager and first responder support, and community events through February 2027. Mental health training and support is one of the county’s Tropical Storm Helene recovery projects.

• The commission voted to approve a $278,200 contract with McGill Associates PA for design and engineering services for a backup generator at A.C. Reynolds High School. The project was initiated pre-Helene but also aligns with the Helene Recovery Plan and Preparedness Action Plan. This story was supported by the Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing.

— Jessica Wakeman

X

School districts face funding gap for Exceptional Children programs

Buncombe County Schools (BSC) and Asheville City Schools (ACS) are facing state funding shortfalls for their Exceptional Children (EC) programs, which provide tailored learning for students with disabilities.

The shortfall stems from the state’s funding model, which bases allocations on the previous year’s enrollment.

Superintendents for both school districts presented updates on their EC programs at their respective school board meetings this month.

The $13 million question

“We want to do all we can for our students, and yet, we’re not being funded the way we need to be funded by the state, who has the constitutional duty to provide for our schools,” said Superintendent Rob Jackson at the Buncombe County Board of Education’s March 5 meeting.

North Carolina determines the allocation of state funding for public schools based on a district’s average daily membership (ADM), or student headcount, from the previous year, Jackson explained.

As of December 2024, the EC program accounted for 13% of BCS’ total ADM, which established the cap on this year’s state funding. However, this year the program has 213 more students, representing 13.12% of the student population.

“That’s a huge increase when we look at funding being based on last year,” Jackson said.

As a result, 25 BCS students participating in the EC program this year are not funded by the state. According to Jackson’s presentation, the state allocates $5,593.34 per student, amounting to roughly $139,833 in lost funding for the program.

But even if BCS enrollment did align with the cap, spending for the program far exceeds that state allotment when factoring in funding for specific program needs, such as hiring specialists and therapists, Jackson said. Last year’s funding gap amounted to roughly $4,381 per student, Jackson

SCHOOL SUPPORT: Buncombe County Board of Education member Kim Plemmons urged community members to vote for representatives in the 2026 elections who will support public education. Screen grab from Buncombe County Schools’

reported to the board. That gap, in addition to the 213 additional students in this year’s EC program, amounts to over $13 million in funding needs for the current school year.

The school district was able to offset costs thanks to county funding, Jackson said.

In response to the report, BCS board member Kim Plemmons spoke about volunteering with the EC program at Erwin High School.

“For anyone that doesn’t understand the EC world and can vote in a manner that reduces funding for those children, I’m sorry, but that is terrible. That is not OK. And voters have got to do something about it in November,” Plemmons said.

Board member Charles Martin also shared passionate remarks about the program and attending the Progressive Education Program (PEP) graduation. A student named Gracie, he says, left an indelible impression.

“When she walked across that stage on graduation, she looked out to her father, and she said, ‘I did it,’” Martin recalled. “That right there touched me as a parent, it touched me as a pastor, touched me as a board member.” He also noted how important it is to vote

in November for legislators who will support public education.

At the meeting, the BCS board unanimously adopted a resolution that urges the N.C. General Assembly to

revise the funding formula and calls on the N.C. Department of Public Instruction to provide supplemental funding for districts like BCS. The resolution also requests state leaders to acknowledge the impact of the cap and includes a commitment to advocating for more funding in the EC program.

Down $700K

The Asheville City Board of Education approved a similar resolution at its March 19 strategic planning retreat.

ACS Superintendent Maggie Fehrman presented the numbers for its EC program at the Asheville City School Board meeting March 9.

The program serves a total of 640 students — 100 more students than last year — representing 16.7% of the total enrollment.

Due to the state’s funding cap, 140 ACS students in the EC program will not be funded, resulting in a funding gap of $700,000.

During the 2024-25 school year, ACS spent roughly $13,416 per student in the EC program. The calculated state funding per student was $5,136 per student.

ACS covered last year’s $8,280 difference per student by using county funding in addition to federal IDEA funding and Medicaid reimbursements for the program.

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

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

— Brionna Dallara X

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GARDENING WITH XPRESS

New roots

BY CHLOE LIEBERMAN

If you’re like me, warm days and spring rains awaken the urge to garden. Even if you haven’t gardened before, the uncertainty of world events and rising grocery store prices might inspire you to give it a try this year.

This month’s article is all about starting a garden from grass — the pros and cons of different methods and how to do them. Whether you’re starting your first garden, establishing a plot in a new spot or expanding your growing space, this should help you succeed without breaking your back.

YOU’VE GOT OPTIONS

There are lots of ways to start a garden from grass, and they all have their place. In general, you can create a growing space more quickly by investing more physical inputs (e.g., labor, amendments). But if what you have to invest is time, you can create a fertile garden with fewer physical inputs, especially the labor part.

Whichever approach you take, remember that you can mix and match. For example, if you love broccoli and want to get some planted before it gets too hot, you could create a raised bed for those early spring crops.

Meanwhile, you could do solarization/ occultation or sheet mulching (more on this in a bit) in an area where you plan to plant corn, beans and squash later in the year, all while gathering supplies to grow a few cherry tomatoes and lettuces on your patio, where they’ll be easy to snack on.

Some of the speedier ways to start a garden from grass involve tilling, or turning the soil with a plow, rototiller or fork, and lots of elbow grease. But these are not the only ways to kill existing vegetation and get the ground ready for crops.

In fact, while tilling can be great for starting a new garden, when it’s done year after year or season after season, it can deplete the soil, not to mention wear out the body of the gardener.

No-till techniques for preparing growing space without digging or turning, which I will describe later in this piece, are what I use most often. Their benefits include preserving soil strata (layers), which makes microbes happy, and being way less work than digging by hand.

RAISED BEDS, DOUBLE-DIGGING AND MACHINE TILLING

The fastest way to start a garden is to buy or build raised beds or containers and fill them with purchased soil and amend-

How to start a vegetable garden from grass

MAKING SPACE: Sustainability expert Chloe Lieberman prepares a new garden bed that was cleared of grass through a no-till method called solarization, occultation or tarping.

ments. With this method, you can go from lawn (or yard, or patio) to planting seeds in a day or a weekend. But you’ll need to buy a bunch of things to make it happen. If you’ve got the resources for this and are itching to garden, it’s a great option, at least for some of your growing space.

You can either build raised beds from lumber (ideally rot-resistant but not pressure-treated, made from species like locust, cedar or cypress), or buy wooden or metal raised bed kits online or at home improvement stores.

The Asheville Mulch Yard is a good place to get bulk soil for filling your beds, but in my experience, what the business sells still needs a fertility boost. All-purpose fertilizers like Espoma Organic Planttone or Symphony Organic Fertilizer are good options.

Another fairly quick way to turn grass into a great growing space is called double-digging. This technique was developed by horticulturist Alan Chadwick in the 1960s with the goal of bringing “marginal” or less fertile land into food production quickly and effectively, which it does. Double-digging is thoroughly described and promoted by Chadwick’s friend and mentee, John Jeavons, in his classic book How to Grow More Vegetables (and Fruits, Nuts, Berries, Grains, and Other Crops) Than You Ever Thought Possible on Less Land Than You Can Imagine. You can also find lots of online resources that walk you through it step by step.

The basic idea of double-digging is to turn and mix compost into the top 6-8 inches of soil while deeply aerating the subsoil to make it more welcoming to plant roots. This technique is labor intensive, but otherwise inexpensive; all you need is a shovel, a digging fork and some compost. Doing it together with friends and plenty of cold drinks is the best way to double-dig.

Finally, using a tractor or rototiller is another somewhat fast way to start a gar-

den from grass, although in my experience, it doesn’t always effectively kill existing vegetation. If you till with a machine, be sure to mow the grass or weeds there as short as possible before starting.

And, if you use a tractor, be sure to wait at least a week to 10 days between plowing and discing so the grass and other vegetation have a chance to die. Plowing without following up by discing will not yield a useful garden space.

SLOWER, NO-TILL METHODS

Instead of digging into the ground to loosen soil and remove grasses and weeds, no-till techniques smother existing vegetation, allowing roots, microbes and worms to break up the soil. You can do this either with UV-stabilized plastic or organic (carbon-based) materials, such as cardboard, grass clippings, straw, compost, etc.

The former approach is variously called solarization, occultation and tarping. Technically, solarization means using a clear material and occultation an opaque one, but many people simply call both methods solarization.

I don’t recommend using clear plastic, but rather a woven polypropylene ground cover like DeWitt Sunbelt (available at Home Depot and Lowe’s, or online), or a low-density polyethylene silage tarp (available online through Farmer’s Friend and Farm Plastic Supply). The woven material comes in smaller sizes, while the tarps are only for larger fields.

Do not use a regular tarp or roll of plastic, as they will degrade in the sun and become a mess and a source of pollution.

The key ingredient here, other than an appropriate type of plastic, is time. In warmer weather, an area can be ready within a few weeks, and in cooler weather, it can take up to two months. If you start a garden from grass with this method now, it won’t

be ready in time for broccoli, but it will be ready in time to transplant tomatoes or sow corn.

Since this method doesn’t involve mixing the soil up, it’s not a good way to incorporate fertilizers and amendments. Instead, I will layer fertility on top in a no-till situation — by spreading compost, manure or other goodies, and/or by cycling through cover crops in that area. These are plants that I grow to feed and protect the soil, rather than to harvest myself.

There are lots of types of cover crops, each with different functions, growth habits and ideal planting seasons: oats in spring, buckwheat in summer, tillage radish in winter, just to name a few. Timing is crucial with cover cropping, so they don’t become weedy or take up space you need for planting. (For more in-depth guidance on cover crops, check online resources, such as this article from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: avl.mx/ffk.)

For a plastic-free approach to no-till gardening, sheet mulching — also called “lasagna gardening” — employs sheets of cardboard instead of plastic, often layered with other organic materials like dried leaves, grass clippings, decomposed wood chips and even kitchen scraps.

Lasagna gardening is a specific recipe for this type of layering, shared by Patricia Lanza in her book by this same title. Unlike the plastic material in solarization, sheet mulching layers don’t get removed; you can either poke holes in the cardboard and plant right into it, or layer compost or topsoil on top and plant into that.

It’s a great method for smaller spaces, but not so practical for larger gardens. Wetting down the cardboard before layering it helps it to contour to the earth, and it’s best to use the largest pieces you can find, being sure to remove all tape and labels.

THE FIRST SEASON

No matter which technique you use, the first year in your newly established garden will be a period of adjustment. Fertilizing a few times and watering regularly can help. The land will need time to settle after disturbance and adapt to its new role as the home of annual vegetable crops (even if it’s purchased soil).

This doesn’t mean you can’t have a fabulous vegetable garden immediately after eliminating the grass — you can. This is just an invitation to be aware of what’s happening.

Don’t get discouraged if everything doesn’t look amazing that very first season. Fortunately and miraculously, the earth is alive with a bustling community of organisms and varied structures that respond to disturbance with resilience.

As your garden grows this year, I’ll be here to answer questions, share tips and celebrate the abundance alongside you. Email me at gardening@mountainx.com, and I’ll write back here each month X

Photo by Sarah Tew

Practicing mistakes

Teacher Nora Randolph encourages students to embrace failure and a growth mindset

BY CHRISTOPHER ARBOR

Each month, veteran educator Christopher Arbor spotlights some of the most profound teaching happening here in Western North Carolina. You can read the first entry in the series at avl.mx/ffq.

As a sixth grader at French Broad River Academy (FBRA), an anxious student we’ll call Jane wept at the very sight of a canoe. Every field lesson on the river brought the same thing: tears before the boat even touched water.

Nora Randolph , her Spanish teacher and paddling instructor, didn’t protect Jane from the challenge, and she didn’t force her through it. She taught her how to navigate it.

Randolph gave Jane small jobs — holding the painter lines, counting the students in the eddy — ways to participate that were small enough to manage and big enough to matter. By the end of that year, Jane could approach the canoe not only dry-eyed but eager. By the end of seventh grade, Jane was paddling confidently. And then came the eighth grade capstone trip on the Chattooga River.

To paddle this federally designated Wild and Scenic River, FBRA students embark on a multinight expedition that includes navigating Second Ledge, a 5-foot waterfall — bigger than any rapid the students have yet faced. When Jane’s group hiked down to scout

On the other hand, people with a growth mindset understand that abilities are more like their weight, adjustable based on behavior. In this mindset, people can develop their skills through effort, strategy and persistence.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

ROCK STAR EDUCATOR: An Outward Bound instructor and certified rock climbing guide, Nora Randolph spent 10 months hitchhiking through South America and studying tango before bringing her love of adventure and language to French Broad River Academy. Her teaching philosophy focuses on adopting a growth mindset. Photo courtesy of Randolph

it, every single student balked. No one wanted to paddle it.

Except for Jane, the girl who used to cry at the sight of the canoe. Nervous but determined, she said, “I’ll go first.”

GROWTH MINDSET

It may be tempting to cheer for Jane’s boost in confidence, but that’s not really it. The real shift was in her mindset. She didn’t know if she would succeed, but she knew she would be OK if she failed.

It wasn’t about confidence. It was about resilience. “Being able to handle what happens next is the most important thing,” Randolph explains.

In her landmark book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success , Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck draws a distinction between two beliefs about intelligence. People with a fixed mindset believe their abilities are like their height, generally static. In this mindset, a person is either smart or not.

Dweck’s research has shown that students who hold a growth mindset consistently outperform those who don’t. That’s because students (and people in general) with a fixed mindset generally don’t look for opportunities to grow. They don’t believe they can. They instead tend to seek validation and avoid challenges. Conversely, growth mindset folks are always leaning into new ways to develop.

What’s particularly striking is that trying to build confidence in students often backfires. In a series of studies, Dweck and colleague Claudia Mueller found that when fifth graders were praised for being smart — what Dweck calls “person praise” — they became less willing to take on challenges and more likely to lie about their scores.

Students praised for their effort — “process praise” — did the opposite: They sought harder problems and showed greater resilience. As Dweck writes, “Praising children’s intelligence harms their motivation, and it harms their performance.”

To put it another way: Focusing on confidence in education is like playing badminton with a bowling ball. At best, it’s ridiculous. At worst, someone’s going to get hurt.

LAUGHING AT FAILURE

Randolph doesn’t just avoid person praise; she’s built process praise into the bones of her teaching. When one of her students decided she didn’t feel like rock climbing on a recent field lesson —

not because she’d tried and failed, but because she simply didn’t want to try — Randolph sat her down for a conversation about integrity and growth mindset.

She didn’t tell the student she was a good climber or a bad one. Instead, she remembers saying, “You rock climbing is not going to save the world necessarily, but it’s your assignment today, and you have to try your hardest, and only you are going to know what your best work is here.”

The student, says Randolph, climbed to the top.

Thus, one of Randolph’s first priorities is cultivating a growth mindset in her students. Her favorite setup for a river trip that includes first-timers involves pots, pans and other items on hand. She pairs students up; one gets on all fours to serve as a table, and the other tries to build a sculpture on the student’s back.

Then Randolph tells the table to crawl around. The sculpture collapses as if somebody just lost the loudest-ever game of Jenga. Failure is inevitable and painless. Everyone laughs.

“I then compare that to the experience we’re about to have,” Randolph says. “Because inevitably everyone is going to have a moment where it feels like everything’s falling apart, and it will be OK for us all to be laughing. We are all going to make mistakes. Everyone’s going to swim. And if you don’t swim by mistake, I’m going to make you swim on purpose.”

She continues: “We’re going to …” then pauses and delivers a line that could be made into a poster and hung in every classroom in the world: “Practice the mistakes.”

The goal isn’t to avoid failure. The goal is to get so comfortable with failure that it stops feeling like a setback and starts feeling like information. Flipping a canoe isn’t a disaster. It’s curriculum.

RUBRICS FOR SUCCESS

Back on campus, the philosophy carries straight into Randolph’s teaching of Spanish, where her grading rubrics tell students everything they need to know about priorities. In a conversation assessment, 25% of the grade is based simply on whether or not a student participates. Another 25% is dedicated to listening to others and ensuring they have a chance to participate, and the rest is for responding on topic.

“The biggest testament I can see to their growth mindset is that they’re not afraid of trying even though they’re going to mess up,” Randolph says. “I think they know that’s how they’re going to get better.”

The results show up in moments both small and revealing. One day, says Randolph, a student was trying to talk about something but didn’t know the word. Undaunted, she improvised: “small water.”

Her classmates leaned in. A puddle? No. “More big, more big water in a room. Fun!” Students stewed on it. “A swimming pool!” one kid shouted. Everyone cheered, not only for the student who figured it out but also for the student who navigated around not knowing the word.

Dweck’s research shows that people with a growth mindset are inspired rather than threatened by others’ success. They’re more collaborative, more generous, more willing to lift each other — because they don’t see ability as a zerosum game.

Recently at FBRA, Randolph helped her students set “yet goals” — naming something they can’t do yet and committing to work on it. The exercise draws on Dweck’s finding that the word “yet” increases persistence and confidence.

“I don’t understand the difference between the verbs ‘ser’ and ‘estar’ yet .” “I don’t really love canoeing yet .” The framing matters. The difference is a theory of time. “I can’t” is a verdict of failure. “I can’t yet ” is a forecast of future success.

As paradoxical as it may sound, deep learning isn’t about an identity of success; it’s about comfort in a state of failure and still moving forward.

Jane, that student who volunteered to go first over Second Ledge? She flipped. And so did every other student.

Does that mean she’s a failure? No. It means she hasn’t navigated the rapid without swimming yet. She came up laughing, and she’s ready to keep trying until she succeeds.

Now that we’ve explored belonging and mindset, next month we’ll begin a three-part examination of intrinsic motivation. See you then.

If you know a Western North Carolina educator with a unique pedagogy, please drop me a line at BestPracticeMakesPerfect@gmail. com.  X

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA UTILITIES COMMISSION RALEIGH DOCKET NO. P-100, SUB 137E BEFORE THE NORTH CAROLINA UTILITIES COMMISSION

NOTICE OF AREA CODE RELIEF PLAN FOR 828 NPA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on November 24, 2025, the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) filed with the North Carolina Utilities Commission (Commission) a recommendation made by representatives of the telecommunications industry to provide relief for the 828 area code in North Carolina. The Petition provides notification to the Commission that the 828 numbering plan area (NPA or area code) serving the western area of North Carolina, including the cities of Asheville, Boone, Hendersonville, Hickory, Lenoir, Morganton, Newton, and Waynesville, is projected to exhaust its central office (CO) codes (or NXX codes) by the third quarter of 2028 and is in need of relief. The NANPA notes that absent NPA relief, the supply of CO codes in the 828 NPA is projected to run out during the projected exhaust quarter. This has created a need to introduce another area code in the geographic area now covered by the 828 area code to ensure the availability of telephone numbers in the future.

Industry representatives have recommended an all-services overlay as the relief plan for the 828 area code. Under the recommended plan, a new area code would be assigned to cover or “overlay” the entire geographic area using the existing 828 area code boundary lines. This would result in two area codes for the same geographic area. When telephone numbers in the 828 area code run out, new residential and business telephone numbers for the area would be assigned from the new area code. Implementation of an all-services overlay requires mandatory 10-digit dialing for local calls, including calls within the same NPA.

Persons desiring to send written statements to the Commission on the Petition should submit their statement on or before March 31, 2026, and should include any information that those persons wish to be considered by the Commission in this matter. Interventions or statements should be addressed to the Chief Clerk, North Carolina Utilities Commission, 4325 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-4300. Statements may also be faxed to (919) 733-7300 or, preferably, submitted electronically on the Commission’s website as a Consumer Statement using this website address: APPENDIX A PAGE 2 OF 2 https://www. ncuc.gov/contactus.html. Consumer Statements should be filed in Docket No. P-100, Sub 137E.

The Public Staff of the Utilities Commission, through the Executive Director, is required by statute to represent the using and consuming public in proceedings before the Commission. Statements to the Executive Director should be addressed to:

Christopher J. Ayers Executive Director - Public Staff 4326 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-4300 Fax: (919) 733-9565

MARCH. 25 - APRIL. 2, 2026

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 26

 More info, page 27

WELLNESS

Meditation for Community Healers

Inviting all who contribute to the wellbeing of our community, including psychotherapists, spiritual teachers, bodyworkers, social workers and more.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 10am, Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Small Group Weightlifting Class

A small group resistance training session using barbells, dumbbells, and kettlebells to develop strength and muscle.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 1pm, Jungle Gym Asheville, 30 Davenport Rd

50+ Yoga

For individuals aged 50 and above, focusing on gentle movements and flexibility, taught by Barbara.

WE (3/25, 4/1), FR (3/27), MO (3/30), noon, Weaverville Yoga, 3-B Florida Avenue

Anahata Yoga

A heart-centered yoga practice focusing on the Anahata chakra, led by Barbara.

WE (3/25, 4/1), FR (3/27), SA (3/28), MO (3/30), 10:30am, Weaverville Yoga, 3-B Florida Avenue

Tai Chi Fan

The Tai Chi Fan class includes a short Flying Rainbow Single Fan form, partner work, and Flying Rainbow Double

Fan form.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave

Wellness Wednesdays:

Cue The Pub Run

A fun pub run that takes place every Wednesday, rain or shine. All ages and experience levels are welcome.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 6pm, Archetype Brewing , 265 Haywood Rd

Tai Chi for Beginners

In the Beginner Tai Chi class, the focus is on the Yang 10 and 24 forms as well as Qigong exercises for health.

WE (3/26, 4/2), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave

Community Yoga w/ Carrie

A free hour of yoga, meditation and mindfulness with local yoga instructor.

WE (3/25), 10:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas NC Wellness and Opportunity Center, 216 Asheland Ave

Small Group Circuit

Training Class

A circuit training group workout class aimed at increasing your general fitness and conditioning.

WE (3/26, 4/2), 9am, Jungle Gym Asheville, 30 Davenport Rd

Breath Medicine: Breathwork Inside the Cave

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

COMMUNITY-POWERED BENEFIT CONCERT: On Sunday, March 29, a group of local and national musicians will come together at The Barrel Room at Highland Brewing Co. for the second annual Chords for Callum, a community-powered benefit concert to raise money for the STXBP1 Foundation. The concert begins at 1 p.m. and will benefit kids like 5-year old Callum, who was diagnosed with STXBP1, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder. Photo of Callum and the Stickley family courtesy of Julianne Stickley

This session is designed to boost energy, relieve stress, and support overall health and well-being.

FR (3/27), 6pm, Asheville Salt Cave, 16 N Liberty St

Chinese Tea and Tai Chi Foundations

This is a class for all ages and all levels. No experience is needed.

SA (3/28), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave

Yin Yang Qigong

Together, we will balance the Yin and Yang within to effortlessly smooth out internal and external physical, emotional and mental disharmonies.

MO (3/30), 10am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave

Kinēsa Mat Class

Kinēsa focuses on retraining the brain and calming the nervous system to release habitual patterns of posture, movement, and body mechanics.

TU (3/31), 8:30am, Happy Body Pilates, 25 Reed St., Suite 210

Qigong for Health and Resilience

We practice a variety of simple yet powerful standing movements that can be as deep and challenging as you wish.

TU (3/31), 9am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave

SUPPORT GROUPS

Staying Grounded in Shaky Times

It will explore a variety of spiritual practices including meditation, breath-work, meditative movement and more.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 2pm, AmeriHealth Caritas NC Wellness and Opportunity Center, 216 Asheland Ave

Nicotine Anonymous People share their experience, strength and hope to stop using nicotine. You don’t need to be stopped, just have a desire to attend.

TH (3/26), 4:30pm, Asheville 12-Step Recovery Club, 1 Kenilworth Knolls Unit 4

Solutions Group

Daily living sober meeting. For more information, visit avl.mx/f91.

SU (3/29), 12:30pm, Online

Sunrise AA Meeting

Daily virtual Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. For more information, visit avl.mx/f91.

SU (3/29), 7am, Online

Families Anonymous Support group for those affected by someone else’s addiction. We support each other with support of program.

TU (3/31), 6pm, Love & Respect, 350 Chadwick Ave Suite 300

caller at 7:30 p.m.

MO (3/30), A-B Tech

Community College, 340 Victoria Rd

ART

Highwater: Ceramics from the Gail & Brian McCarthy Collection

Highwater features ceramics from the collection of Gail & Brian McCarthy, celebrating the 45-year legacy of Highwater Clays as a pillar of the ceramics community in WNC and beyond. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through April 26, 2026. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Women of the Pacific Northwest

It features clay and mixed media work of Naomi Lindenfeld as she responded to a selection of her mother Lore’s innovative textiles. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through May, 9. Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St

Pink Dog Mardi Gras: Lovers, Sinners & Misfits

• Reems Creek Nursery | 76

• Saturday, March 28 |

The Men’s Nest Make meaningful human connections to strengthen your social health, cultivate compassion, and learn to use your power to give and receive authentic support.

TU (3/31), 5:15pm, SeekHealing, 50 S French Broad Ave

Stroke Support Group w/Stronger Together Wellness Stronger Together Wellness empowers stroke survivors and their caregivers through shared experiences, fostering a vibrant community that inspires healing, resilience, and hope on the journey to recovery.

TH (4/2), 3pm, AmeriHealth Caritas NC Wellness and Opportunity Center, 216 Asheland Ave

DANCE

Latin Night Wednesday w/DJ MTN VIBEZ

A Latin dance social featuring salsa, bachata, merengue, cumbia, and reggaeton with dance lessons for all skill levels.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 8pm, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd

Fundamentals of Bellydance: Take up Space

Each month will feature technique focus and work on developing a

deep relationship with that skil

WE (3/25), 5:30pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave

Country Western Line Dancing & Two-Stepping Steppin’ Out AVL presents three hours of free line dancing and two-stepping in a friendly, inclusive environment. No boots, partner or experience needed.

TH (3/26, 4/2), 6pm, Banks Ave, 32 banks Ave

Nia Dance Class Nia brings the body, mind, emotions, and spirit to optimal health through music, movement, and self expression.

TH (3/26, 3/31), TH (4/2), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave

We Line Dance

Instructor Brenda Mills leads an all-inclusive exercise class using line dancing to get your body moving.

TH (3/26, 4/2), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Rec Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Monday Night Contra Dance

Experience a fun and social dance that is open to everyone, every Monday. There will be a lesson at 7 p.m. and then participants can dance to a live band and

This exhibition celebrates the voices, visions and material mastery of female artists working today, with roots from this rich and progressive region. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through May 17, 2026. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Virginia Derryberry: Private Domain

Featuring large-scale narrative figure paintings, the exhibition will explore themes of duality, transformation, and human complexity through imagery drawn from alchemy, mythology, and contemporary life. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 12pm. Exhibition through April 10, 2026.  Upstairs Artspace Gallery, 49 S Trade St, Tryon

Open Art Exhibition: Transformation

This exhibition features 25+ local artists showing multiple perspectives & styles, inspired by the title’s theme, Transformation. Art media for this show may include ceramic, stained glass, painting, drawing, photography, collage, printmaking, ceramic, and mixed media.

Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd

In a New Light: American Impressionism

1870–1940

This exhibition explores the ways in which local artists interpreted America’s rural, maritime and urban spaces and portrayed daily life using the Impressionist devices of capturing the moment with brisk brushstrokes, a vibrant palette, and atmospheric effects. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through June 29, 2026.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 South Pack Square

Dialogue: Lindenfeld & Lindenfeld

This exhibition celebrates the works of mother-daughter artists, Lore Kadden Lindenfeld and Naomi Lindenfeld.

Twenty-eight artists present works encompassing a multi-faceted interpretation of the holiday: the European influence of masquerade, the exuberance of New Orleans’ renowned parades, elaborate parties and unique Cajun and African American traditions. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 10am, and Sunday, noon. Exhibition runs through March 28.

Pink Dog Creative, 348 Depot St

Stitching Stories

Reimagined

This free traveling exhibit translates incarcerated women’s individual struggles into a symbol of resilience, healing, empathy, and advocacy. Gallery open daily, 9am. Exhibition through March 26.

Black Mountain United Methodist Church, 101 Church St, Black Mountain

Unrelenting: Cherokee People & the American Revolution Featuring historic objects in conversation with works by contemporary Cherokee artists, Unrelenting delves into 250 years of Aniyvwiya innovation, adaptability, and resistance, centering Native voices, perspectives, and creativity. Gallery open daily, 9am. Exhibition through Dec. 30, 2026.

Museum of the Cherokee People, 589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee

COMMUNITY MUSIC

Swing Asheville Live w/Queen Bee & the Honeylovers Blues, swing and Latin band Queen Bee and the Honeylovers features dancer Whitney Moore and local lindy hop legend Michael Gamble. This swing Asheville event will also include a dance lesson at 7pm. WE (3/25), 8pm, Bryson Gym at Warren Wilson College, 102 Upper College Rd

Asian Soundscapes w/ Xiao-Fen Min

Inspired by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, the program weaves ancient Asian string traditions with contemporary rhythm and improvisation. See p27

FR (3/27), 7:30pm, Monte Vista, 308 W State St

Chamber Music Performance: Room 1078

Room 1078’s mission is to support the 21st-century evolution of performance as classical musicians, using innovative takes on contemporary repertoire, improvisation, and folk music to break down barriers between musicians and audience members.

FR (3/27), 7pm, Mars Landing Arts Center, 37 Library St

Tempus Presents: Voices in Amber Light

A program designed to immerse listeners in the radiant intimacy of small-ensemble choral music. See p27

FR (3/27), 7pm, Black Mountain Presbyterian, 117 Montreat Road

SA (3/28), 4pm, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 10 N Liberty St Brevard Philharmonic Presents: Rhapsody in Blue Eyes

Broadway star and acclaimed pianist Tony DeSare brings his signature charisma, virtuosic playing, and irresistible swing to the stage, creating a program filled with charm, romance, and energy.

SA (3/28), 7:30pm, Porter Center, Brevard College, 1 Brevard College Dr

Hilliard Greene w/ Lenore Raphael Separately, bassist Hilliard Greene and pianist Lenore Raphael have wowed fans and critics on stages all over the world.

SA (3/28), 7pm, Mars Landing Arts Center, 37 Library St

Jazz & Soul Sessions w/ Kelle Jolly & The Will Boyd Project

A vibrant new concert series featuring nationally acclaimed artists

Kelle Jolly and The Will Boyd Project, making up a dynamic five member house band.

SA (3/28), 3pm, YMI Cultural Center, 39 S Market Street

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

Start Your Regenerative Mushroom Farm

A live, 90-minute, by-donation workshop designed to help you understand what it really takes to build a viable mushroom-based livelihood. Register at avl.mx/ffi.

WE (3/25), 6pm, Online

Welcome to Bridge Bridge lessons for beginners and those who want to review the basics. Register at the website or by emailing mailto:abrclubmanager@ gmail.com.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 10am, Asheville Bridge Room at Beth Israel Synagoue, 229 Murdock Ave

Reconnect for Resilience

In this free 14-hour, interactive virtual workshop, you’ll learn the science of how stress affects the brain and body, and walk away with easy-to-use, practical tools to manage stress in real life. Register at avl.mx/fg1.

TH (3/26), FR (3/27), 9am, Online

Southern Appalachian Weather & Climate Workshop

The two-day workshop brings together experts from federal agencies, universities, and broadcast media to share research, operational insights, and best practices related to weather, water, and climate.

FR (3/27), 1pm, SA (3/28), 9am, Highsmith Student Union, 1 University Heights Lawn Alternatives & HOAs: How to Build a Beautiful Landscape Under HOA Constraints

The presentations and discussions in this class will tackle those multifunctional lawn alternatives, and how to make them aesthetically pleasing to your neighbors and Home Owners Associations.

SA (3/28), 10am, Asheville Botanical Garden, 151 W.T. Weaver Blvd

The Biodiverse Vegetable Garden w/ Kira Blankenship

An informative workshop where we will dive into the methods of increasing biodiversity in your backyard vegetable garden, and why creating a diverse ecosystem is so important.

SA (3/28), 10am, Reems Creek Nursery, 76 Monticello Rd

Lichens Up Close: Learning to See, Name & Appreciate a Hidden World w/Laura Boggess

This hands-on class will introduce you to the fascinating biology and ecology of lichens, with a focus on learning how to observe, appreciate, and begin identifying common species.

SU (3/29), 2pm, Asheville Botanical Garden, 151 W.T. Weaver Blvd

Garden Helpline Extension Master Gardener volunteers are here to help. Please email, call, or drop by with your gardening questions. Call 828-255-5522 or email buncombemg@gmail. com.

MO (3/30), 10am, Buncombe County Extension Office, 49 Mount Carmel Rd

LITERARY

Poetry Open Mic

Asheville’s longest-running open mic, welcoming all forms of creative expression. Sign-up at 8 p.m. for a 5 or 10-minute spot.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 8:30pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave

Black Experience Book Club

This community-centered series is designed to explore literature that centers the voices, histories, and futures of the African Diaspora.

TH (3/26), 6:30pm, YMI Cultural Center, 39 S Market Street

Free Talk w/Local

Author Aisha Johnson Adams

Author, facilitator, and civic and cultural strategist Aisha Johnson Adams leads a conversation inspired by her memoir, This Is What Made Me: Surviving Trauma, Challenging Systems, & Claiming Healing.

TH (3/26), 1pm, Locke Library at A-B Tech, 10 Fernihurst Dr

Jessie Swigger

Presents Please Touch:

A History of the First Four Children’s Museums in the United States (1899–1965)

Jessie Swigger will share her new book, Please Touch: A History of the First Four Children’s Museums in the United States (1899–1965). The innovation and influence of the first children’s museums in the US.

TH (3/26), 6pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St

Alice Martin Presents: Westward Women w/ Tessa Fontaine Alice Martin will share her debut novel, Westward Women, in conversation with Tessa Fontaine.

SA (3/28), 3pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St

Flooded Poetry

Mondays

Poetry-specific open mic, starring you plus weekly featured readers, every Monday.

MO (3/30), 6:30pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd #1200

THEATER & FILM

All Things Equal: The Life & Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg From breaking barriers and fighting for women’s rights to standing strong on a divided Supreme Court, RBG’s story is one of fierce resilience, sharp humor, and lasting impact.

WE (3/25), TH (3/26) 8pm, Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave

PBS NC & WCU Present: A Sacred Thread

A special screening of the new documentary “A Sacred Thread” exploring the Snowbird Cherokee’s fight to preserve their language and culture.

WE (3/25), 5:30pm, WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr

SideHustle Live: The Comedy Game Show for Entrepreneurs

It’s a live comedy game show where entrepreneurs connect by creating and pitching ridiculous business ideas together.

WE (3/25), 6:30pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Road St. 10

Private Lives

When former spouses Elyot and Amanda accidentally reunite on their honeymoons with new partners, their rekindled passion quickly spirals into chaos—setting off a witty and volatile battle of love, jealousy, and temptation.

TH (3/26), FR (3/27), 7:30pm, SU (3/28), 3pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S Washington St

Chiaroscuro: Fantasy & Realism

Chiaroscuro is a monthly dance variety show that elevates all forms of movement to a theatrical realm—where contrast is not a conflict, but a conversation.

TH (3/26), 7:30pm, Third Room, 46 Wall St

Ethnically Ambiguous

This hilarious and heartfelt one-man show dives into his experience growing up Mexican American, navigating family expectations, and carving out a career as an “ethnically ambiguous” actor in the entertainment industry.

FR (3/27), SU (3/29), 2pm, SA (3/28), 7:30pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S Washington St

Foreign Film Friday: Blow-up

A successful mod photographer in London whose world is bounded by fashion, pop music, marijuana, and easy sex, feels his life is boring and despairing. But in the course of a single day he unknowingly captures a death on film.

FR (3/27), 7pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd, Ste 1200

Screening: Without Shade Without Rest

The film looks at the fight to win heat protection for outdoor workers in Florida in the wake of the hottest year on record, following two frontline organizations, as they work to secure lasting protections for Florida’s outdoor laborers.

TU (3/31), 6:30pm, Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Mindstorm Productions Presents: A Film Screening of The Human Journey

A documentary that explores oneness around the world. Proceeds from this screening will directly benefit efforts to build a clean water well in Africa.

TH (4/2), 6pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Road St. 10

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS

Social Seniors

A social gathering for seniors to engage in various activities and connect with peers.

WE (3/25, 4/1), TH (3/26, 4/2), FR (3/27), MO (3/30), TU (3/31), 9am, Grove Street Community Center, 36 Grove S

Allison Pugh Presents: Connection, Meaning, & The Future of Work in the AI Century

Her talk is one that is relevant to all in this rapidly-changing world as we see AI changing the landscape of the job market and workplace.

TH (3/26), 6pm, Blue Ridge Room at Highsmith Student Union, 1 University Heights

Modern Forestry Revisited w/Ethan Tapper

Hear from keynote speaker Ethan Tapper, author of How to Love a Forest, and local forestry experts on the future of Appalachian forests.

TH (3/26), 5pm, Taproom At Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy #200

The Struggle Against Solitary Confinement

Three panelists will discuss the struggle against solitary confinement.

TH (3/26), 7pm, Canon Lounge in Gladfelter Student Center, 114 Upper College Rd, Rm 326

Specialty Guided Tour: Elizabeth Hemphill’s Vanceville

Take a behind the scenes tour of the Vance Birthplace and discover the story of Elizabeth Hemphill. Tours are 90 minutes and will take place at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm.

SA (3/28), 11am, Vance Birthplace State Historic Site, 911 Reems Creek Rd

Atheists of WNC

This little Atheist group invites anyone who doesn’t believe in religions to come chat with like-minded people. Find out more at avl.mx/f8c.

SU (3/29), 10am, EarthFare - Westgate, 66 Westgate Pkw

Deaf Community Meetup

This gathering is a space for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, families, and allies to come together, connect, and enjoy time in community.

SU (3/29), noon, The Hop & Pop Bubble Tea, 640 Merrimon Ave, Ste 103

Sunday Celebration

An uplifting Science of Mind Celebration. SU (3/29), 11am, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science of Mind Way

Sacred Activism, Beyond the Divide: Finding Unity in a Polarized World.

Beth Hedquist and Cibele Salviatto lead a new ongoing series exploring the intersection between spirituality and courageous action grounded in love.

Register at avl.mx/fg0.

MO (3/30), 6:30pm, Online

WNC Sierra Club Monthly Meeting: Crypto Mines & AI Data Centers

A timely presentation on the accelerating expansion of crypto mining and AI data centers and their real-world impacts — including rising greenhouse gas emissions, increased air pollution, heavy water use, and more.

WE (4/1), 7pm, Reuter Center, 300 Campus View Road

GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

Buncombe County Hosting Property Appeals Clinics

To help answer questions about property values, connect owners to tax relief programs, and help navigate the appeals process, Buncombe County Property Assessment staff and volunteer real estate experts will host a series of free property value appeal clinics.

WE (3/25), 3:30pm, Enka-Candler Public Library, 1404 Sand Hill Rd

WE (4/1), 4pm, Skyland/ South Buncombe Library, 260 Overlook Rd

TH (4/2), 5pm, Fairview Library, 1 Taylor Road

Jamie Ager Meet & Greet

Get a chance to chat with the fourth-generation family farmer from fairview about how he plans to represent WNC. WE (3/25), 5pm, Oak and Grist Distilling Co., 1556 Grovestone Rd

GAMES & CLUBS

Asheville Board Game Club Meetup

Play a wide variety of games—strategy, party,

cooperative, and more.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 5:30pm, Well Played Board Game Café, 162 Coxe Ave, 101

Board Game Night Open, casual game night—come and go as you please. An assortment of board games available to play.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 5pm, Hi-Wire RAD Beer Garden, 284 Lyman St Homeschooler’s Hangout Games help develop cognitive skills, including decision-making, problem-solving, and logical analysis.

TH (3/26, 4/2), 11am, Well Played Board Game Café, 162 Coxe Ave, 101 Game Night

An evening of cards and games such as dominoes and Rummikub.

TH (3/26), 7pm, First Congregational Church of Christ of Asheville, 20 Oak Street

Southside After Praise After church, enjoy an afternoon playing spades or dominoes! SU (3/29), 1:30pm, Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St Weekly Sunday Scrabble

If you like Wordle, Boggle, Words with Friends or Scrabble online, this club may be a good fit for you. All of the games are provided.

SU (3/29), 1:30pm, Stephens-Lee Rec Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Pool Night

Pool night, every Monday night with a $5 buy in. Must be signed up by 7 p.m.

MO (3/30), 6:30pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

Game Designers of NC Meetup

Come playtest the next generation of games.

TU (3/31), 6pm, Well Played Board Game Café, 162 Coxe Ave, 101

Magic: The Gathering

Whether you’ve been playing for years or are just starting your journey, this is your chance to battle, brew, and build community.

TU (3/31), 6pm, Well Played Board Game Café, 162 Coxe Ave, 101

LOCAL MARKETS

RAD Farmers Market

A year-round weekly market featuring local fruits vegetables, meats, bread, honey, eggs, pastries, flowers, crafts and more. SNAP, Double SNAP, & Farmers Market Prescriptions accepted here.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 3pm, New Belgium Brewing Asheville, 21 Craven St

Weaverville Tailgate Market

This market features a selection of fresh, locally grown produce, grass fed beef, pork, chicken, eggs, cheese, baked goods, artisan bread, eclectic handmade goodies, garden and landscaping plants.

WE (3/25, 4/1), 3pm, 60 Lake Shore Dr

Junk-O-Rama Vintage Market

Full bad, vintage clothes, jewelry, local art & more.

SU (3/29), noon, Fleetwood’s, 496 Haywood Rd

WNC Farmers Market

This year-round market features locally grown produce, fruits and vegetables, mountain crafts, plants, shops, arts and crafts, sourwood honey, and other farm fresh items.

SU (3/29), 8am, WNC Farmers Market, 570 Brevard Rd

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Kids Over Corporations Mass Meeting Coworkers and the community come together take back control of public dollars, hold politicians accountable to families instead of donors, and finally put our kids first in this mass meeting.

WE (3/25), 5pm, Union Hall at the Asheville Mall, 3 S Tunnel Rd Friends Night Out Encourages Community to Shop Local A day dedicated to supporting local businesses and celebrating the vibrant shopping scene in Sylva. Shoppers are encouraged to visit participating Friends Night Out businesses, make purchases, and bring their receipts to the Chamber that evening for a chance to win exciting prizes.

TH (3/26), noon, Citywide in Sylva HatchThis HatchThis returns to Asheville with a powerful mix of accelerator, hackathon, and startup lab, all packed into one fast paced, mentor driven weekend. Teams compete for $20,000 in prize packages, including a $5,000 cash seed funding award.

FR (3/27), 5:30pm, SA (3/28), SU (3/29), 8am, Hatchworks Event Space, 45 S French Broad Ave

2026 Annual Asheville Orchid Festival: Orchid Kingdom

World-class orchid growers and breeders, along with regional orchid societies, will exhibit at the annual festival, with hundreds of orchids presented in

Ballot Categories 2026

This year’s Best of WNC ballot offers voters an opportunity to celebrate the local individuals, organizations and businesses that are helping define our region and how it evolves. You are invited to vote this April based on your local knowledge and passions. The online ballot covers hundreds of topics and issues. Don’t be daunted — just vote for the categories you care about and skip those you don’t.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Music Events & Venues

• Local Music Festival

• Indoor Music Venue

• Outdoor Music Venue

• Intimate Music Venue/ Listening Room

Musicians & Bands

• Lyricist (Songwriter)

• Vocalist (Singer)

• Guitarist

• Bass Guitarist

• Percussionist-Drummer

• Keyboardist/Pianist

• All-Round Favorite Band

• Acoustic/Folk

• Americana/Country

• Blues

• Funk

• Jazz

• Old-Time/Bluegrass

• R&B/Soul

• Hip-Hop

• Rock

• Punk/Metal/Garage

• Traditional Appalachian Musician

• Local Busker/Street Group

• DJ (Nonradio) Music Services

• Musical Instrument Repair Company

• Music-Related Nonprofit

• Recording Studio Arts & Crafts

• Arts/Crafts Fair or Event

• Studio Stroll/Driving Tour

• Craft School or Place to Learn a Craft

• Art Gallery

• Craft-Oriented Gallery

• Nonprofit (Not Music) That Serves the Arts Artists, Crafters

• Fiber Artist

• Jewelry Artist/Designer

• Metal Artist or Blacksmith

• Glass Artist or Studio

• Woodworker

• Mural Artist

• Painter/Illustrator

• Potter/Ceramic Artist

• Portrait/Headshot Photographer

• Still Life/Nature Photographer

• Wedding/Event Photographer

Ove

Film, Stage, Dance & Writing

• Movie Theater

• Local Filmmaker

• Theater Company

• Actor (any gender)

• Performance Dance Company

• Place to Take Dance Classes or Lessons

• Improv Group/Comedy Troupe or Series

• Local Comedy Show/ Night/Event

• Comedian

• Karaoke Night

• Trivia Night Emcee

• Drag Performer/Group

• Open-Mic-Night Venue

• Local Author

• Local Poet

• Local Literary Event

* Locally Written Book (author lives in WNC) Published in the Last 12 Months

DRINKS

Bars

• Bar That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

• Neighborhood BarDowntown (including South Slope)

• Neighborhood BarRiver Arts District

• Neighborhood Bar - South

• Neighborhood Bar - West

• Neighborhood Bar - North

• Neighborhood Bar - East

• Bartender

• Bar for Live Music

• Bar With a View

• Bar With Games

• Family-Friendly Bar or Brewery

• LGBTQ+ Friendly Bar

• Hotel Bar

• Dive Bar

• Sports Bar

• Upscale Bar

• Bar or Brewery That Gives Back to the Community

• Bar: Local Beer Selection (excluding breweries)

• Bar: Unusual Beer Selection (excluding breweries)

• Wine Bar Cocktails, Spirits & Wine

• Local Winery

• Wine Store

• Cocktails

• Distillery

• Bloody Mary

• Margarita Beer, Cider & Breweries

• Cidery

• Local Cider

• Local All-Round Brewery (for its beers)

• Brewery (for its taproom & atmosphere)

• "Creative, Experimental Brewery"

• Local Beer (Any Style)

• Local Dark Beer

• Local Lager

• Local Sour Beer

• Local IPA

• Seasonal Beer

• Brewmaster

• Favorite Local Beer Event

• Beer Store Coffee, Tea & Healthy Drinks

• Coffeehouse for Its Vibe

• Establishment With the Best Coffee

• Barista

• Coffee Roaster

• Place to Drink Tea

• Bubble Tea

• Smoothies/Juices

• Mocktails or Nonalcoholic Options

• Local Nonalcoholic Drink or Soda

• CBD Drinks/Health Elixirs

• Kava Bar

EATS

• Restaurant That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

• Favorite Restaurant Neighborhoods

• Restaurant in Downtown (including South Slope)

• Restaurant in the River Arts District

• Restaurant in West Asheville

• Restaurant in North Asheville

• Restaurant in East Asheville

• Restaurant in South Asheville Restaurant Type

• People-Watching Restaurant

• Restaurant With a View

• Outdoor Dining

• Romantic Dining

• Fine Dining/Upscale

• Catering Company

• Late-Night Eats

• Food Truck

• Quiet Restaurant

• New Restaurant (Opened in the Last 12 Months)

• Restaurant to Take Out-of-Towners to

• Green/SustainabilityFriendly Restaurant

• Kid-Friendly Restaurant

• Diner/Homestyle

( CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS )

Restaurant Offerings

• Breakfast

• Brunch

• Lunch

• Quick Meal

• Restaurant Wine Selection

• Restaurant Cocktail Selection

• Pub Grub

• Takeout

• Bagels

• Best Value

• Best Service

• Barbecue

• Biscuits

• Burger

• Burrito

• French Fries

• Fried Chicken

• Healthiest Food

• Hot Bar/Buffet

• Hot Dogs

• Local-Food Emphasis

• Pasta

• Pizza

• Ramen

• Ribs

• Salad

• Sandwich Shop

• Seafood

• Special Diet Options (Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, etc.)

• Steak

• Sushi

• Taco

• Sub Shop

• Vegan

• Vegetarian

• Veggie Burger

• Wings

• Restaurant Still Needed in Asheville

Cuisine

• Chinese

• Restaurant Comfort Food

• French

• Greek

• Italian

• Latin American

• Mexican

• Middle Eastern

• Indian

• Japanese

• Southern

• Thai Desserts & Sweets

• Desserts

• Ice Cream

• Frozen Treats Other Than Ice Cream

• Chocolate

• Local Cookie Maker

• Doughnuts Bakeries

• Bakery (Sweets/ Desserts)

• Bakery (Bread) Miscellaneous

• Pastry Chef

• Fresh Fish Seller

• Fresh Meat Seller

• Cheesemaker/ Cheese Dairy

• Local Food Product

• Locally Made CBD Treats

• Chef

• Local Food Festival or Event

• Nonprofit Helping With Hunger Issues

FARM, YARD & GARDEN

• Tailgate/Farmers Market

• Roadside Farm Stand

• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Farm

• Farm to Visit

• Orchard

• Community Garden

• Garden Supply Store

• "Nursery (Trees, Shrubs)"

• Mulch Supplier

• Tree Service

• Landscaping Service (Other Than Lawn Care)

• Nonprofit Supporting Farms/Farmland Preservation

• Lawn/ Yard Care

When does voting start and end?

Voting officially begins April 1 and continues through April 30.

In how many categories must I vote in order for my ballot to be counted?

Each ballot must have votes for at least 30 categories to be counted. Why do voters have to vote for 30 categories? We want meaningful results from people who are invested in and knowledgeable about the Asheville/WNC area.

BEST OF WNC CATEGORIES 2026

VOTING STARTS APRIL 1ST

HEALTH & WELLNESS

• Physician (General Practice)

• Pediatrician

• Family Medical Practice

• Membership Health Care Provider

* Functional/ Integrative/Alternative Medical Practice

• Women's Health Center

• Maternity Care/Service

• Hospital

• Emergency Room

• Urgent Care/ Walk-In Clinic

• Place to Get Medical Care When Underor Uninsured

• Therapist or Counseling Center

• Dental Practice

• Dentist

• Eye Care Specialist/ Service

• Assisted-Living Community

• Hospice

• Mortuary/Funeral Services

• Health & WellnessFocused Nonprofit

• Place to Center Yourself

* Place to Worship/ Church, Synagogue, Mosque, etc. Alternative

• Chiropractor

• Acupuncture Clinic

• Acupuncturist

Physical Therapy

• Physical Therapy Clinic

• Physical Therapist

• Massage Therapist

* Occupational Therapist Fitness

• Fitness Studio With Classes

• Physical Trainer

• Gym or Place to Work Out

• Pilates Studio

• Yoga Studio

• Yoga Teacher

• Martial Arts Studio Stores

• Pharmacy/Drugstore

• "Place to Buy Supplements, Vitamins & Herbs"

• Place to Buy CBD Products

KIDS

Schools & Classes

• School (Precollege)

• After-school Program

• Preschool

• Child Care or Day Care Service

• Art Education Program

• Music Teacher Places

• Daytrip for Kids

• Kid-Friendly Hike

• Overnight Camp

• Day Camp

• Place for Indoor Fun

• Place for Outdoor Fun

• Playground

• Museum

• Place for Birthday Parties

• Parents Night Out Program

• Bakery for Birthday Cakes

Skill-Building

• Dance Studio

• Gymnastics Program

• Martial Arts Program

• Team-Sports Program

Shopping

• Kids Clothes

• Toy Store

How do I get a category added or changed?

The categories are set for this year, but to suggest a change for next year, email: bestofwnc@ mountainx.com

How are the votes counted? Mountain Xpress tallies the votes by hand, taking great care to understand each voter’s intent. We reserve the right to reject any ballot with inappropriate responses.

Medical

• Pediatric PracticeGeneral Medicine

• Pediatric Practice

- Dentistry

• Orthodontist

MEDIA

• Local Radio Station (commercial)

• Local Radio Station (noncommercial)

• Local Radio Personality/ Announcer

• Local Podcast

* Local Print Publication

• Local Reporter (Print and/or Online)

• Local News Source

• Local Events Information Source

• "Local Social Media Page to Follow for Local News, Events and Local Happenings"

• Local E-Newsletter

• Favorite Feature in Xpress

• Local News Website

• Most Important Local News Story (in the Last 12 Months)

• Most Underreported Story (in the Last 12 Months)

• Most Overreported Story (in the Last 12 Months)

OUTDOORS

• Outdoor Gear and Apparel Shop

• Ski Resort

• Place to Roller Skate or Skateboard

• Canopy Tour/Zip Line

* Shooting Range

• Environmental or Conservation Nonprofit Hiking

• Backpacking Trail/ Overnight Hike

• Day Hike Trail

• "Easy Hike Trail (For Kids, Elders, Limited Mobility)"

• Walk - In or Near Asheville

• Waterfall

• Picnic Spot

Biking

• Mountain Bike Trail

CONTINUES )

How do you prevent voter fraud? Ballots are examined for telltale signs of voter fraud or ballot stuffing. We disqualify all ballots that appear to be fraudulent.

I hope my business wins. How do I get voting promotional materials? Call us at 828-251-1333. We can provide you with printable and digital materials, or contact your sales representative for information.

carefully crafted displays. There will be something for all orchid lovers, and attendees should expect rare species and cutting-edge hybrids.

FR (3/27), 4pm, SA (3/28), SU (3/29), 9am, NC Arboretum 20 Frederick Law Olmsted Way

Hatch This: Final Pitch

The final night features a final pitch at the Mule in the evening with dinner, networking, awards and celebration.

SU (3/29), 6pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd

Open Hearts Annual Talent Show: Life’s A Beach Step into a joyful celebration as our

performers bring “Life’s a Beach” to the stage through music, dance, and visual performance.

FR (3/27), 4pm, Taproom At Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy #200

Dillsboro Glass Arts Festival

This festival features mobile glass blowing demonstrations, glass lamp working demonstrations and regional glass artists. It will also include glass art vendors, food and beer with a kids activity tent. Free the to the public and free parking.

SA (3/28), 11am, Dills St, Dillsboro, 35 Dills St

( CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS )

Camping

• Camping Spot

Water & Rivers

• Place to Relax on the Water

• Swimming Hole

• Rafting Company

* Paddling Outfitter PERSONAL SERVICES

• Spa

• Local Body-Products Maker Cosmetic

• Esthetician

• Eyebrow Shaping

• Hair Salon

* Hair Colorist

• Hairstylist

• Barbershop

• Barber

• Nail Salon

• Nail Technician

Tattoo & Piercing

• Tattoo Parlor/Studio

• Tattoo Artist

• Piercing Studio

PETS

No Kings Day III March & Rally to Build Community

The march and rally is organized by the Asheville Fights Back Network, a coalition of nonprofits and advocacy groups that have come together to stand up for Democracy.

SA (3/28), 1pm, Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza

Spring Out w/Asheville on Bikes

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking to enjoy the ride, we’ve got routes for all skill levels. Check out the schedule, routes, and ways to support safer

• Veterinary Services

• Veterinarian Services

• Pet Kennel

• Pet Day Care Facility

• Grooming Service

streets for everyone.

SU (3/29), 1pm, Wedge Brewery at Foundation, 5 Foundy Street

Leicester Community Brunch

This collaboration with Food Experience will be serving a freely gifted brunch for everyone to enjoy, made with locally grown ingredients that support local farmers and makers. See p26 SU (3/29), 11am, Leicester Community Center, 2979 New Leicester Hwy

The Hop & Bop Puppet Party

A joyful afternoon of puppets, parade energy, and plenty of food and

sweet treats.

SU (3/29), 3pm, The Hop at S&W, 56 Patton Ave

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING

Pickleball Party to Benefit Asheville Symphony Guild

You ticket will get you pizza, beer and the opportunity to play pickleball, or just hangout. It will be a fun event with proceeds going to the Symphony.

TH (3/26), 5pm, Asheville Sports Club, 137 Coxe Ave

2026 Downtown Loft Tour

For one day only, you’ll have the rare opportunity to step inside a selection of beautifully restored and reimagined lofts and downtown residences that showcase the city’s growing spirit of creativity and preservation. Funds raised by the event support the promotion, preservation, and improvement of Historic Downtown Hendersonville.

SA (3/28), 11am, Multiple Locations in Hendersonville, 401 N Main St

BEST OF WNC CATEGORIES 2026

• Electrical/Electrician Company

• Heating/Cooling Company

• Pest Control Service

• Moving Company

• Construction Firm (Design and/or Build)

• House Painters

• Trainer/Training Center

• Pet Sitting/Dog Walking Service

• Animal Shelter/Rescue Organization Places & Shops

• Pet Supply Store

• Outdoor Place to Take Your Pet

• Pet-Friendly Bar or Brewery PROFESSIONAL & HOME SERVICES

• Print Shop

• Cellphone Service Provider for the WNC Mountains

• Computer Repair

• Car Repair

• Place To Get Your Oil Changed

• Bike Repair

• Equipment Rental Services

• Green Builder

• Plumbing Company

• Roofing Company

• Alternative Energy Sales and Installation

• Handyperson

• Home Cleaning Service

• Dry Cleaner

* Tailor/Alterations Financial

• Accountant/CPA Firm

• Place to Have Your Taxes Prepared

• Financial Adviser Legal

• Law Firm

• Real Estate Attorney

• Estate Planning Attorney Home

• Real Estate Company

• Real Estate Agent

• Insurance Agent

SHOPPING

• Store That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

• Pawn Shop

• Mall-Style Market

• Florist/Plant Shop

• Bookstore - New

• Bookstore - Used

• Record/CD Store

• Musical Instrument Store

• Game Store

• Comics & Collectibles Store

• Gift Shop

• Head Shop

• "Adult Toys, Lingerie & Naughty Things Store"

• Bike Shop

• Automobile Tire Store

• Auto Dealer - New and/or Used Fashion

• Clothing: Dress-Up/Stylin'

• Clothing: Used or Vintage (for-profit store)

• Clothing: Used or Vintage (nonprofit store)

• Asheville-Style Clothes

• Shoe Store

• Jewelry Store Food

• All-Round Grocery Store

• Local Grocery Delivery or Curbside Pickup

• Budget-Friendly Grocery Store

• Health Food Store

• International/Specialty Food Store

• Convenience/Corner Store

• New Furniture Store

• Used Furniture Store (for-profit store)

• Used Furniture Store (nonprofit store)

• Antique Store

• Refurbished Or Upcycled Goods

• Picture Framer

UNIQUELY ASHEVILLE

• Neighborhood

• Street for a Stroll

• Local Asheville Attraction

Art for Autonomy

Holding this art show to fundraise for Put NC First and The Brigid Alliance is not just about raising funds—it’s about bringing together artists, businesses, and supporters in our community to stand for reproductive rights.

See p27

SA (3/28), 6pm, Clayspace Co-Op, 119 Roberts St PetSmart Adoption Event

Come out, meet adoptable dogs, and maybe leave with a new best friend. Plus, enjoy a sweet treat from Frozen Josie’s Hand Dipped Ice Cream & Sweets while

• Place to Take Your Eccentric Friends

• Place to Pretend You're a Tourist

• Place to Connect With Nature Within or Near to Asheville

• Historic/Interesting Building

• Holiday EventSpring-Summer

• Holiday Event - Fall-Winter

• Local Hero

• Local Villain

• Local Politician

• Local Fundraising Event

• Bumper Sticker or Slogan About Asheville

• Thing Downtown Asheville Needs

• Thing West Asheville Needs

• Thing North Asheville Needs

• Thing South Asheville Needs

• Thing East Asheville Needs

• Thing the River Arts District Needs

• Project You'd Like to See Local Government Do

• Best Thing to Happen to Asheville in the Last 12 Months

• Worst Thing to Happen to Asheville in the Last 12 Months

• Biggest Threat to Asheville's Uniqueness

• Biggest Opportunity for Asheville's Uniqueness Hospitality

• Local City Tour

• Venue to Book for a Party or Event

• Place to Get Married

• Hotel

• B&B or Small Boutique Hotel Nonprofits

• Nonprofit That Improves Asheville

• Nonprofit That Serves the Underprivileged

• Activist Group for Civic/ Political Action

WORK & BUSINESS

• Business That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

you’re there.

SA (3/28), 11am, PetSmart Waynesville, 321 Town Center Loop 2nd Annual Chords for Callum

This special benefit concert brings together an incredible lineup of local and regional musicians in support of the STXBP1 Foundation, helping fund research and advance the fight to find a cure for STXBP1-related disorders.

SU (3/29), 1pm, Barrel Room at Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200

• Employment Sector to Work in

• Business That Gives Back to the Community

• Co-Op/Employeeowned Business

• Bank

• Credit Union

• Bank/Financial Services for Small Business

• Support Organization for Entrepreneurs and New Businesses

REGIONAL

Questions for the following regions: Brevard Burnsville Hendersonville/ Flat Rock/Mills River Hot Springs Marshall/Mars Hill Swannanoa/ Black Mountain Cullowhee/Sylva Waynesville/Maggie Valley/Canton Weaverville/Woodfin

• Business That Best Represents the Spirit of Your Town

• Breakfast Restaurant

• Lunch Restaurant

• Dinner Restaurant

• Coffee & Sweets

• Local Bar/Brewery/ Watering Hole

• Music/Entertainment Venue

• Retail Store

• Art Gallery

• Cultural or Historical Landmark

• Cultural or Arts Event

• Local Place to Enjoy the Outdoors

• Local Cause to Support

• Best Thing to Happen to Your Town in the Last 12 Months

* New Business Opened in the Last 12 Months

Soak it in

HOMEMADE LIVING

Handmade bath products ease winter-weary skin

BY ASHLEY ENGLISH

As we welcome spring, our skin is in recovery from months of cold-weather assault. The low humidity, harsh winds and cold temperatures we experience during Western North Carolina mountain winters eventually take their toll, causing protective barrier oils to leave the skin’s top layer faster than they can be replenished. Itchy, flaky, irritated skin is often the result.

That’s where baths — and homemade bath products — offer an assist. Scented bath salts are as lovely and therapeutic to use yourself as they are to gift to others, a simple indulgence that feels deeply luxurious. The combination of Epsom and sea salts works to improve circulation and reduce swelling and inflammation, while baking soda gently exfoliates the skin. They’re also easy to make and are far more economical to DIY than to purchase ready-made.

Bath oil offers a hit of moisture and scent, a deeply relaxing combo, while bath fizzies provide relaxation, moisture AND a dose of fun. The addition of citric acid makes the bath experience fizzy and delightful!

Spring is right around the corner. Until then, bath breaks will go far toward helping your skin make it through the remainder of the winter season intact.

BATH SALTS

Yield: 2½ cups

Frequency of use: Use 1-2 times weekly.

Storage: Store in a lidded container. Best if used within one year, as the scents will begin to fade over time. You will need:

• ¾ cup Epsom salt

• ¾ cup fine sea salt

• 1 cup baking soda

• Essential oils (optional, see oil blend ideas below)

• One 24-ounce glass container with lid

Floral blend

Combine 6-8 drops each of geranium, sandalwood and lavender essential oils.

Woods blend

Combine 8 drops fir essential oil, 6 drops cedar essential oil and 5 drops frankincense essential oil.

Citrus blend

Combine 6-8 drops each lime, lemongrass and grapefruit essential oils.

To prepare:

1. Place the Epsom salt, sea salt, baking soda and optional essential oils into a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is uniform in texture.

2. Transfer the bath salt blend to a covered jar until ready to use. You can place it all in one jar or use a variety of sizes, especially if you intend to offer any as gifts. Remember to date and label your containers.

3. To use, place around ¼ cup into the bath while it’s filling. Swirl the water gently to help disperse any bits that might not have dissolved before getting in the tub yourself. Soak for as long as you’re comfortable, but aim for at least 15-20 minutes to best receive the benefits of the blend, with 30 minutes being ideal. Refresh water as needed.

BATH OIL

Yield: 4 ounces

Frequency of use: Use as needed or desired.

Storage: Store in a lidded container. Best if used within six months, as the scents will begin to fade and the oils will begin to turn.

You will need:

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• 8 drops geranium essential oil

• 8 drops ylang ylang essential oil

• 5 drops lime essential oil

• 6 tablespoons (90 ml) sweet almond oil

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) jojoba oil

• One 4-ounce tinted glass bottle

To prepare:

1. Place the essential oils into a pourable measuring cup.

2. Add the jojoba and almond oils. Using a funnel, transfer the blend to a dark-colored 4-ounce glass bottle. Remember to date and label your bottle.

3. When ready to use, run your bath. Then add about 1 or 2 tablespoons of the blend and soak for as long as you’re comfortable. To avoid slipping, take great caution when stepping out of the bath and scrub the tub

down afterward to remove all oil residues.

4. Gently pat your skin dry with a towel.

BATH FIZZIES

Yield: One dozen

Frequency of use: Use as desired.

Storage: Store in a lidded glass jar or wrap individually in cellophane, glassine or parchment. Use within one year.

You will need:

• 1 cup baking soda

• ½ cup Epsom salt

• ½ cup cornstarch

• ½ cup citric acid

• 2 tablespoons canola or safflower oil

• 1 tablespoon cold water

• 8 drops essential oil(s) of choice (in total)*

• 5 drops food coloring (optional)

• Silicone molds, ¼ cup (60 ml) in volume per mold

• One 32-ounce glass jar

• *Scent combo suggestions for bath fizzies (but feel free to experiment):

• Lavender and orange

• Eucalyptus, orange, and ylang ylang

• Fir, juniper, and lemon

• Chamomile and lavender

• Cedar and sandalwood

To prepare:

1. Place the baking soda, Epsom salt, cornstarch and citric acid in a medium bowl. Using a whisk, combine until the ingredients are thoroughly until no lumps remain.

2. In a small bowl or a pourable measuring cup, whisk together the oil, water, essential oil and optional food coloring.

3. Adding small spoonfuls at a time, whisk the liquid into the dry mixture. Do this very slowly, otherwise the mixture might overfizz and not set properly. Once everything is fully combined, your mixture should be dry, crumbly and barely sticking together.

4. Scoop about ¼ cup into each silicone mold. Press down firmly and set aside to dry fully. A full day of drying time is ideal.

5. Flip the silicone mold over and gently release the bath fizzy. Store in your chosen container or wrap up for gifting.

6. To use, fill a bath and drop one bath fizzy into the water. Step in gently and soak for as long as you’re comfortable, refreshing the water as desired. When finished, towel off as usual. X

WATER THERAPY: Homemade bath salts, oils and fizzies moisturize and exfoliate skin while offering a luxurious, relaxing experience. Pictured is the bathtub at author Ashley English’s home in the mountains near Asheville. Photo by Glenn English

Talent show

Lee Fields brings his incendiary soul music to Asheville

BY BILL KOPP

Soul singer Lee Fields was in love with music from an early age. But by age 13, music wasn’t his only passion. “My interest at the time was to become a businessman,” recalls the Wilson, N.C. native. “I thought [a career in] music was for other people.”

Still, he was inspired enough to pick up and learn how to play the bass guitar before a stage opportunity set him on another path.

A talent show was scheduled in his hometown. “A friend of mine dared me to go up and sing,” Fields recalls. He mustered his courage, took the stage and delivered a rousing cover of “Try Me,” a No. 1 hit on the R&B charts in 1958 for James Brown and the Famous Flames.

The audience reaction caught Fields by surprise. “All the girls started screaming,” he says with a broad smile. “I won the talent show. And the girls have been screaming ever since.”

On Thursday, April 2, the New Jersey-based singer brings his classic soul sound to Asheville audiences with a performance at The Orange Peel. Appearing with his band the Expressions, Fields will serve up classics from his catalog, including songs from his most recent album, 2022’s Sentimental Fool

BUSINESS DECISION

After that talent show, Fields’ bass guitar went back into its case. “It

was easy to play,” he says. “But there were a lot of bass players who were better than me.”

Applying his business acumen to his budding musical career, he made a decision to focus solely on singing. “So I told Lee on bass, ‘You’re fired,’” he says.

Fields’ recording career got underway before he celebrated his 20th birthday. His debut single, 1969’s “Bewildered,” was a soulful slow jam in the style of James Brown. That record ushered in a steady stream of 45-rpm releases, all for small independent record labels.

By the end of the ’70s, Fields had released at least 16 singles. But his debut album, Let’s Talk it Over, didn’t appear until 1979; today, original copies of that record are highly sought after by collectors and serious fans of funk and soul.

However, with the rising popularity of disco, Fields found that his brand of soul music was in decreased demand. So he took a break from performing, turning his attention toward a long-term strategy.

“I took time out to study the industry,” he explains. “Because the way I was taught how to [succeed] wasn’t working anymore.”

Fields developed a plan to connect with the decision-makers and influencers in the music industry, and when he was ready, he resumed his career.

Between 1981 and 2000, the singer released more than 15 singles. A highlight among those is the funky “Shake It Lady, Shake It,” a 1984 single and a co-write with Parliament/ Funkadelic co-founder Bernie Worrell. Fields’ 1993 dance-oriented album Enough Is Enough — today a collector’s item as well — showcased his writing skills.

In the decades to follow, Fields made up for time, releasing more than an album per year. But his biggest breakthroughs were yet to come.

‘ALL OVER THE WORLD’

In 2000, one of the labels for which he recorded split and reorganized into two new labels — Daptone and Soul Fire. Fields cut material for both while also appearing on releases by his friend and label mate Sharon Jones with her band, the Dap-Kings. By the time he released his album Faithful Man in 2012, Fields was an in-demand touring performer, sing-

ing his songs to audiences around the globe. “Now I’m working all the time, all over the world,” he says. “So apparently, I must have hit on something.”

Fields says he writes 99% of his songs and has developed an instinctual feel for when a new song is working or when it lacks that certain something. “When I hear a good song, it makes my foot pat,” he explains. “When it starts patting, I have no control of that. I roll on natural inclinations.”

He says that he often doesn’t know what it is about a given song that sets his foot in motion. But when it happens, he is certain of one thing: “That song is good,” he says.

And with that groove established, Fields starts coming up with lyrics. “I don’t try to write,” he says. “I just try to be a receptor when something good comes. It’s an organic, natural process.”

Many seasoned performers who travel the world note that audiences in different countries react to their music in different ways. Fields says he has discovered quite the opposite to be true.

“I can’t tell any difference,” he says. “When I come on, it’s all about finding the moment when everybody is one, when we all feel the excitement and the love.” When that happens, he says, “everybody starts singing together and jumping around.”

That experience is a secular parallel to what is found in some churches. And Fields says that when he’s writing those songs, he’s writing toward a higher entity. “Like the Bible says, he that desires to be exalted must become a base and servant of all. And that makes sense to me,” he says.

That humility — coupled with Fields’ powerful, outsized onstage persona — is a big part of what makes him a performer who connects with audiences.

In between live dates, Fields is gearing up for his next album, to be cut in sessions with his longtime live band, the Expressions. But right now, his primary focus is where it usually is: on the live audience.

“And I’m looking to have a very good time in Asheville,” he says. X

WHO Lee Fields and the Expressions with Monophonics WHERE

The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave., avl.mx/e8a WHEN Thursday, April 2, 8 p.m. $40.42

EXTRAORDINARY MAN: It took soul singer Lee Fields three decades to gain fame, but these days the North Carolina-born artist is riding high with his brand of funky soul. Photo by Gustavo Olivares

All Day Darling expands to Oakley

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN

earnaudin@mountainx.com

On March 19, All Day Darling broke ground on its second location, which is expected to open in 2027 at 567 Fairview Road. The beloved neighborhood eatery from two-time James Beard Award nominee chef Jacob Sessoms has served meals out of its original Montford spot since 2018. In 2025, the restaurant received a recommendation and listing in the Michelin Guide. Like the Montford restaurant, the Oakley location will be open daily, offering counter-service breakfast, lunch and dinner options, but with an expanded dinner menu and additional bakery items. The beverage program will include Counter Culture coffee drinks, house-made tonics, wine, beer and a full bar menu.

“We’ve been looking at East Asheville for years,” says Sessoms, noting that his team purchased the property about three years ago.

The project, being executed in partnership with architect Michael McDunnough, will take up to 12 months to complete, Sessoms says. Plans include adaptive reuse of a small existing building for back-of-house operations and construction of a new structure for the dining space. Parking will be limited on the site.

“Parking is largely going to be up to the people driving the cars,” Sessoms

says. “I think there is a big movement already underway to do traffic calming on Fairview Road to slow it down, so people will have to park on side streets and walk. It is the most stress-causing aspect of the project for me at the moment, but it will be fine.”

“Oakley is an awesome neighborhood, with lots of great folks,” Sessoms continues. “It seems like a logical fit for us. We’re so happy to be here.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/ffl.

Highland Brewing, Ashburn win Esse Quam Videri Award

During the Visit NC Tourism Conference on March 17 at the Omni Grove Park Inn, Highland Brewing Co. and President/CEO Leah Wong Ashburn received the Esse Quam Videri Award for their impactful contributions. The honor was established in 2019.

“Highland and its founding family embody ‘Esse Quam Videri,’ our state motto, which translates as ‘to be, rather than to seem,’” says Wit Tuttell, Visit NC’s executive director, in a press release. “It’s action over words, authenticity over appearance. Leah learned this principle from her father [Highland founder Oscar Wong], and it’s part of the core values that have served them in business and beyond.”

Tuttell continues, “Consider the aftermath of [Tropical Storm] Helene. Even as Highland was recovering from the storm, Leah transformed the brewery campus into something of a relief center, sharing space and resources with World Central Kitchen and Wine to Water, raising money for community assistance, and contributing in countless other ways. Her work led to a White House invitation from President [Joe] Biden, Person of the Year honors from Brewbound and a recent appointment to Gov. [Josh] Stein‘s Advisory Committee on Western NC Recovery.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/ffm.

SECOND HELPING: All Day Darling owner and chef Jacob Sessoms anticipates opening the restaurant’s second location in the Oakley neighborhood in 2027. Photo by Gina Smith

MANNA FoodBank adds storage facility

On March 20, MANNA FoodBank opened a new freezer and cooler facility at its Mills River headquarters. According to a press release, the addition “expands the food bank’s freezer and cooler capacity by 233%, helping meet historically high demand as neighbors in need make nearly 200,000 visits each month to MANNA’s network of 300+ partner food pantries and distribution sites across its 16-county service area and the Qualla Boundary.”

The 15,600-square-foot freezer and cooler addition were made possible through a collective gift of nearly $6.4 million from the N.C. Community Foundation, The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation, Walmart Foundation, Publix Super Markets Charities and anonymous donors committed to strengthening food access across the region. In addition, Food Lion Feeds provided a donation of more than 11,000 pounds of fresh produce and dairy products to help begin stocking the new freezer and cooler.

For nearly 500 days after floodwaters from Tropical Storm Helene destroyed MANNA FoodBank’s Asheville headquarters, the press release points out, the organization relied on refrigerated trucks to store and distribute perishable food while the 15,600-squarefoot freezer and cooler addition was under construction.

To learn more visit avl.mx/f8e.

Leicester Community Brunch

This month, Utopian Seed Project and the Leicester Food Coalition kick off a new season of their Leicester

Community Brunch series. The local seed-saving nonprofit and community coalition will partner with Food Experience catering to host their first free brunch event of 2026 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, March 29, at the Leicester Community Center, 2979 New Leicester Highway in Leicester.

“We want to welcome everyone to enjoy a meal made with locally grown ingredients that support our local farmers and makers. It’s a chance to connect with your neighbors!” reads the Leicester Community Brunch event page on Facebook.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/ffv.

Doggie ice cream and events at The Hop

In celebration of National Puppy Day, The Hop Ice Cream Café released Barkberry, a new flavor in its Happy Tails Doggie Ice Cream lineup, on March 23. The new creation starts with The Hop’s original peanut butter and banana frozen yogurt base and adds carrots and blueberries.

Like all Happy Tails treats, Barkberry is FDA-approved, made with no added sugar and made specifically for dogs. It is available at all Hop retail locations as well as through its online store.

The Hop is also partnering with neighboring pet retailer Bone-A-Fide Pet Boutique for a new outdoor Doggie Ice Cream Social series in Black Mountain. The first event will take place Saturday, April 11, noon-2 p.m., in celebration of National Pet Day, in the courtyard and green space between the two businesses. The event is free to attend. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.

To learn more visit avl.mx/f3x. With additional reporting by Gina Smith. X

by Edwin Arnaudin

Voices in Amber Light Art for Autonomy

Within the 130-voice Asheville Choral Society (ACS) resides its select vocal ensemble, Tempus. As ACS Artistic Director Melodie Galloway notes in a press release, the smaller group “allows us to explore the extraordinary intimacy of choral music,” during which “every line is exposed, every harmony is transparent.”

That focus will be on full display at the end of this month with Tempus’ new program, “Voices in Amber Light.” Selections include multiple classical pieces, including “Miserere Deus” by Gregorio Allegri and “Ave Maris Stella” by Josep Ollé i Sabaté; such contemporary works as “All Seems Beautiful to Me” by Eric Whitacre and “The New Colossus” by Saunder Choi; as well as Jonathan Rathbone’s creative arrangements of “Blackbird” and “I Will” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

Since its inception in 2017 as the Nasty Woman Art Show, the event now known as Art for Autonomy features 100% donated work, the sales of which are given to organizations fighting to protect a woman’s right to choose.

The latest edition takes place Saturday, March 28, 6-9 p.m., back at Clayspace Co-op, where the inaugural event was held. Artworks covering a wide variety of mediums are priced to sell starting at $5. The event is free to attend.

This year’s beneficiaries are Put NC First, a community of strategists, donors and advocates defending democracy in North Carolina, and The Brigid Alliance, which works across the U.S. to arrange and fund confidential travel, lodging, child care and logistical assistance for abortion access.

of works from a past Art for Autonomy event

To learn more, visit avl.mx/fed. X

Performances take place Friday, March 27, at 7 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church in Black Mountain, and Saturday, March 28, at 4 p.m., at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Asheville. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students and current ACS members.

Asian Soundscapes

A master of the lutelike Chinese pipa, Min Xiao-Fen has called Asheville home since 2020 and has collaborated with such stalwarts of the local music scenes as percussionist River Guerguerian and bassist Zack Page, as well as puppeteer Hobey Ford. More recently, she’s assembled Asian Soundscapes, a new trio with fellow area artists Mari Ohta (koto) and Amy Xin Yin (percussion). Their music is described in a press release as being “inspired by the natural beauty of the Appalachian

Mountains” and weaving “ancient Asian string traditions with contemporary rhythm and improvisation — creating immersive musical landscapes where past and present meet in a single expressive arc.”

White Horse Black Mountain welcomes this group to its temporary home at the Monte Vista Hotel on Friday, March 27, at 7:30 p.m. All White Horse events are free to attend or pay what you can. $20 suggested donation.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/fea. X

To learn more, visit avl.mx/prz8. X

Stealing

the Covers

the Covers photos courtesy of the artists

Asheville loves a good covers show for a good cause, and it’s especially encouraging to see these niche fundraisers become yearly events. Such is the case with Stealing the Covers, which returns for a second installment on Sunday, March 29, 4-11 p.m., at Sly Grog Lounge.

The event features eight local bands covering their favorite artists to benefit Musicians for Overdose Prevention. Sets include Sets include In Dog Years playing songs by Stone Temple Pilots, The Sun Sippers honoring Sublime, Drowning Leo covering songs by Blink 182 and

Appalachian Renegades paying tribute to Alice in Chains.. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door or $10 at the door with a food donation to help stock local street pantries or a band T-shirt donation in memory of someone lost to addiction. Donated T-shirts will be contributed to the 100,000 Band T-Shirt Overdose Memorial to be staged in August at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. All ages are welcome with a parent/guardian, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/prz7. X

Photo of Tempus courtesy of Asheville Choral Society

Photo

courtesy of Kristin Schoonover

Stealing

Photo of Asian Soundscapes by Min Xiao-Fen

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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25

12 BONES BREWING

SMOKEHOUSE & BREWING

Trivia Night w/King Trivia, 7pm

27 CLUB

Bloodletting: Gothic Night & Dance Night (dark-wave, Industrial), 9pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Dogs In A Pile w/ Natalie Brooke (jazzfunk, psych, rock), 8pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers Jamgrass Wednesdays, 6:30pm

GALACTIC PIZZA

Trivia Night, 6:30pm

HI-WIRE BREWING -

BILTMORE VILLAGE

Weekly Trivia, 7pm

HOTEL EVE JAZZ

CLUB

Steve LaSpina w/Bill

Bares, Tim Fischer & Ryan Ptasnik (jazz), 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old-time Jam, 5pm

SHAKEY'S SSIN w/DJ Ragga Massive, 10pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 8pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Meter & Melody: Poetry Night, 7pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Sacred Heart Academy, Caelan and The Laurels & Tanner York (indie, pop), 8:45pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Matt Smith’s WellCrafted Music Series w/ Stevie Tombstone, 6pm

THE ODD

Terraoke Karaoke Takeover, 9pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

John Colby Elswick's Jam Review, 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Mammoth w/10 years & James & the Cold Gun (alt-rock), 7pm

TURGUA BREWING

CO.

Lightning Round Trivia w/Marty, 6pm

CLUBLAND

ROCK DUO: The Alpines, an indie rock duo from Salt Lake City, take the stage at Fleetwood’s on Friday, March 27, starting at 8 p.m., alongside The Dolltones and Animal Oracle. The Alpines bring a full-band sound built around guitar and digital drums for a high-energy show. Photo courtesy of Halley Crave

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Open Mic Night, 6:30pm

VOWL BAR AT DSSOLVR

Group Therapy w/ Neptune Spins, 9pm

THURSDAY, MARCH 26

185 KING STREET

Seth & Sara (acoustic), 7pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Dogs In A Pile w/ Natalie Brooke (jazzfunk, psych, rock), 8pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Bless Your Heart Trivia w/Harmon, 7pm EULOGY

Emo Night Karaoke, 8pm

FLEETWOOD’S

Annaliese, Jenna Ivey & Crimson Hibiscus (folk, rock), 9pm

FLOOD GALLERY

True Home Open Mic, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead Thursdays, 6pm

GREEN MAN

BREWING

Thursday Night Trivia, 7pm

HOTEL EVE JAZZ

CLUB

The Dreamboats (jazz), 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam, 7pm

FRIDAY, MARCH 27

185 KING STREET

George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners (funk, r&b), 8pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Clover County w/Ethansroom (Americana, country, indie-folk), 9pm

CORK & KEG BAR

One Leg Up w/D'jango

Jazz (jazz, swing), 8pm

CROW & QUILL

Resonant Rogues (folk, soul), 8pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Paint Rock w/ Blue Roses (indie, rock'n'roll), 8pm

ELEVATED

KAVA LOUNGE

DOWNTOWN

Open Mic Night, 8pm

EULOGY

Moon Walker (indierock), 8pm

FLEETWOOD’S

The Alpines, The Dolltones & Animal Oracle (rock), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Fresh Buzz (funk, indie, rock), 6pm

HARRAH'S CHEROKEE

OKLAWAHA

BREWING CO.

• Next Stop Comedy, 7pm

• Thursday Karaoke, 9:30pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Rooster (Americana, country, folk), 7pm

SHAKEY'S Karaoke w/DJ Franco Nino, 9pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Auto-tune Karaoke w/ Who Gave This B*tch a Mic, 10pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Anna Tivel w/Alexa Rose (Americana, folk), 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Seven Teller (post-punk, psych-rock), 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

The Slice of Life

Comedy Asheville Spring Standup Contest, 7:30pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Trivia Night, 6:30pm

URBAN ORCHARD

CIDER CO.

Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

VOWL BAR AT DSSOLVR

Hot Couch Karaoke w/ DJ BridalPartiBucardi, 8pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Hash Cabbage (psysch, rock), 6pm

THE GREY EAGLE Jordana (indie, pop), 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Joshua Ty Batenhorst (multi-genre), 6pm

• Randomonium (yachtrock), 10pm

THE RIVER ARTS

DISTRICT BREWING CO.

Kool Dewey Kudzu (alt-indie), 7pm

THIRD ROOM

Beekeepers w/Musashi Xero (garage-punk, rap), 9pm

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

185 KING STREET

Jerry’s Dead, 8pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

LUNA: Social Latino, 9pm

BURGER BAR

The Best Worst Karaoke, 8pm CORK & KEG BAR Rodney Sutton w/the Barely Hardly Enough Boys (country), 8pm

CASINO RESORT

Three Dog Night (rock), 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD

PUB

The Old Chevrolette Set (blues, country), 8:30pm

LOBSTER TRAP

Dinah's Daydream (Gypsy, jazz), 6:30pm

MAD CO. BREW

HOUSE

Tina & Her Pony (folk), 6pm

OKLAWAHA

BREWING CO.

Detective Blind (indierock), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Garrett Andrews & Pals w/Ellee Perri & Jaydinn Miller (acoustic), 8pm

PRITCHARD PARK

DOWNTOWN

The Friday Drum Circle, 6pm

SHAKEY'S 2000s Karaoke w/DJ Franco Nino, 10pm

SHAMROCK IRONS

AN Tír Nua (Celtic, folk, Irish), 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Dirty Dead (Grateful Dead tribute), 9pm

SIERRA NEVADA

BREWING CO.

Larry Keel & Jon Stickley Duo (bluegrass, roots), 6pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Tony Black & Kevin Smith (multi-genre), 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

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CROW & QUILL Sirius. B (folk, punk), 8pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY Motel Pearl (altcountry), 8pm

EULOGY Powder Horns w/ Mechanical River, Cheeks & Zeb Camp Wright (post-punk, rock'n'roll), 8pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Don't Tell Comedy, 8pm

GREEN MAN

BREWING The Z-Man Experience (rock, Ska), 3pm

HOTEL EVE JAZZ CLUB

Adam Rose Trio (Americana, indie, jazz), 8pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Nobody’s Darling String Band (bluegrass, blues, swing), 4pm

• His & Hers (Americana-grass), 8:30pm

NEW BELGIUM

BREWING ASHEVILLE Silent Disco w/DJ Spence, 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

The Raphael Graves Band (Americana, rock), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST Dragons w/Matches (Grateful Dead tribute), 9pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Chirp (funk, jazz, rock), 6pm

INDIE

REVIVAL

Nick Lutsko & The $100k Band (rock), 8pm

SHAMROCK IRONS

Company Funk (blues, funk, soul), 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Commander Voodoo (funk, r&b), 9pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Hurricane Dekatt (multigenre), 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

• Blissful Thoughts, Socially Constricted & Pharmacy (rock), 9pm

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TAPROOM AT

HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Boat Command (Lo-fi, yacht-rock), 5pm

THE GREY EAGLE

LowDown Brass Band w/Rebekah Todd (hiphop, reggae, soul), 8pm

THE ODD Party Foul Drag, 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Randomonium Presents: Rando Disco, 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Roast Of Asheville, 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Somewhat Petty (Tom Petty tribute), 8pm

SUNDAY, MARCH 29

185 KING STREET

Open Electric Jam w/ The King Street House Band, 5pm

BURIAL SOUTH SLOPE

Mourning Mass, 2pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Open Mic Night, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa (reggae), 3pm

GINGER'S REVENGE

Jazz Jam Sundays, 2:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Bluegrass Brunch w/ The Bluegrass Brunch Boys (bluegrass), noon

• Traditional Irish Music Session, 3:30pm

OKLAWAHA

BREWING CO.

Eric & The Estrada (rock), 2pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Suns of Stars Sunday Residency (bluegrass), 2pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Sunday Jam: Spiro & Friends, 6:30pm

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT

BREWING CO.

RAD Comedy w/Neil Rubenstein, 7pm

SHAMROCK IRONS

Kate Leigh Bryant (Americana, folk), 1pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Sludge Inc., Derian Blane, Drive Thru Pharma & Kuhleeb (punk), 8pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Fringe Revival (pysch, rock), 2pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Shakedown Sunday's, 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Golden: A K-Pop Kids Party, 3pm

REVIVAL

Racoma w/Lilly Miller (alt-rock, indie), 8pm

VOWL BAR AT DSSOLVR Freshen Up Open Mic Comedy, 7pm

MONDAY, MARCH 30

185 KING STREET Old Time Mountain Music Jam, 6pm

DIATRIBE BREWING Big Brain Trivia, 7pm

DIRTY JACK'S

Traditional Old Time Jam, 5:30pm

HI-WIRE RAD BEER GARDEN

RAD Music Bingo, 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Gypsy Strings Revival (bluegrass, country, Irish), 8:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Mashup Mondays w/ JLloyd (funk, jazz, soul), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Open Mic Downtown, 7:30pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

The Hot Seat w/C.J. Green & Cam (Comedy), 7pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Trivia Night W/Two Bald Guys & A Mic, 6pm

TUESDAY, MARCH 31

185 KING STREET Fireside Trio: Tommy Maher, Jesse Iaquinto, & Carson White (Americana, bluegrass, country), 6:30pm

ARCHETYPE

BREWING Trivia Tuesdays, 6:30pm

BURGER BAR

C U Next Tuesday Trivia, 9pm

DIATRIBE BREWING Irish Session, 4pm

ELUVIUM BREWING Not Rocket Science Trivia, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Robert’s Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

HARRAH'S CHEROKEE CENTER ASHEVILLE Puscifer (rock), 8pm

HI-WIRE RAD BEER

GARDEN

RAD Weekly Trivia, 7pm

HI-WIRE SOUTH

SLOPE

Trivia Tuesdays w/ Not Rocket Science, 7pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING CO.

Tuesday Night Trivia, 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Team Trivia, 7pm

SHAKEY'S Booty Tuesday in The Office, 10pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Open Jam, 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Null, Dug, Soured & Feral Wretch (experimental, postpunk, sludge), 9pm

SWEETEN CREEK

BREWING

All Arts Open Mic!, 6pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Uncle Lenny's Krazy Karaoke, 10pm

• Rigometrics (funk, indie, rock), 10pm

THIRD ROOM Open Decks, 8pm

WAGBAR Trivia Tuesdays, 6pm

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1

12 BONES BREWING

SMOKEHOUSE & BREWING

Trivia Night w/King Trivia, 7pm

185 KING STREET Trivia & Karaoke Night, 7pm

EULOGY Slomosa w/The Mainliners (rock), 8pm

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GALACTIC PIZZA Trivia Night, 6:30pm

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JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old-time Jam, 5pm

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SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 8pm

THE ODD

Terraoke Karaoke Takeover, 9pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Lasso Twins (multigenre), 10pm

TURGUA BREWING CO.

Lightning Round Trivia w/Marty, 6pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Open Mic Night, 6:30pm

THURSDAY, APRIL 2

185 KING STREET

Teacher Troubadours (multi-genre), 7pm

CROW & QUILL

DJ Whitney (rock'n'roll, soul), 8pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Bless Your Heart Trivia w/Harmon, 7pm

EULOGY

Lala Lala w/Mother Soki (indie), 8pm

FLEETWOOD’S

Mantra, Paprika & Low Hawk (folk, garagerock, indie), 9pm

FLOOD GALLERY

True Home Open Mic, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead Thursdays, 6pm

GREEN MAN

BREWING

Thursday Night Trivia, 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam, 7pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO.

Traditional Irish Session, 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

• Alma Russ (Appalachian, country, folk), 6pm

• Thursday Karaoke, 9:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Aaron Lane (multigenre), 8pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Auto-tune Karaoke w/ Who Gave This B*tch a Mic, 10pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Frank Hurricane, Sleep Number, Nina GI & Becca Leigh (experimental, folk, noise), 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Lee Fields & Monophonics (funk, soul), 8pm

TURGUA BREWING

CO.

Alien Music Club Jazz Jam, 5:30pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Trivia Night, 6:30pm

URBAN ORCHARD

CIDER CO. Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

VOWL BAR AT DSSOLVR

Hot Couch Karaoke w/ DJ BridalPartiBucardi, 8pm

3/18 WED STAND UP COMEDY NIGHT, 8pm Hosted by Justin. Blackburn

3/19 THUR TONY BLACK & KEVIN SMITH, 8pm

3/21 SAT HURRIKANE DAKATT, 8pm EP Release Party

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY BY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries poet Maya Angelou proclaimed, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." In that spirit, Aries, I urge you to tell everyone everything—all your secret thoughts, hidden feelings, and private opinions. Post your diary online! Confess your fantasies to strangers! Share your unfiltered inner monologue with authority figures! APRIL FOOL! I lied. Angelou urged us to bravely communicate our authentic truths, but not to overshare or be careless about observing good boundaries. Here’s the deep wisdom: Express thoughts and feelings that make you feel real and whole, but be discerning about when, where, and to whom.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Taurus writer Charlotte Brontë said, "I would always rather be happy than dignified." Given your current astrological potentials, I think you should tattoo her motto across your forehead so everyone knows you’re committed to pleasure over propriety. Burn your dressy clothes! Quit doing boring duties! Dance naked in the woods! APRIL FOOL! I don’t really think you should tattoo your forehead or dance naked in public. But Brontë's sentiment is sound: In the coming weeks, if forced to choose between joy and respectability, pick joy every time. Just do it with a modicum of common sense.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gemini actress Marilyn Monroe said, "A wise girl knows her limits. A smart girl know that she has none.” I propose we expand that counsel to include all genders. And I especially recommend this approach to you right now. It’s time to shed, ignore, and surpass ALL your so-called limits. Be as wild and free and uninhibited as you dare. APRIL FOOL! I worry that it’s irresponsible to give you such utter carte blanche. Would you consider honoring one or two limits that prevent you from indulging in crazy and extreme behavior? Otherwise, be wild and free and uninhibited!

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Psychologist Carl Jung wrote extensively about the importance of embracing our shadows: the dark, problematic aspects of ourselves we would rather not acknowledge. In the coming weeks, I recommend that you stop hiding that weird stuff! Throw a coming-outof-the-closet party for all the questionable parts of you. Let your inner monsters run wild! APRIL FOOL! Please don't do that. What Jung actually advocated was recognizing and integrating your shadow, not being ruled by it. So yes, explore your moody, unruly impulses, but with consciousness, kindness, and containment, not reckless expression.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Leo author James Baldwin observed, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." With that in mind, I advise you to spend the next two weeks obsessively staring at every dilemma in your life. Don't look away! Don't take breaks! Just face every dilemma constantly until you’re overwhelmed! APRIL FOOL! Baldwin's insight is brilliant, but it doesn't require masochistic endurance. Here’s the truth: Yes, you should courageously acknowledge what needs attention, but do so with care and discernment. And then actually work on changing it! Awareness is the beginning, not the entire process.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgo author Agatha Christie wrote 66 detective novels in which she meticulously planned every plot twist. I think you should apply her approach to your daily life: Script every conversation! Anticipate every contingency! Control every variable! Leave nothing to chance! APRIL FOOL! Christie's obsessive planning worked for fiction, but life requires improvisation. For you, the coming weeks favor spontaneity and flexibility. So make rough plans, sure, but stay loose enough to experiment with whatever emerges. Over-control would diminish the magic.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): My favorite Libran writer didn’t capitalize her name: bell hooks. I recommend you stage a similar rebellion against all rules and

ROB BREZSNY

structures. Ignore social conventions! Flout traffic laws! Pay your taxes with paintings and poems you’ve created! APRIL FOOL! I was exaggerating. I do love hooks’ charming revolt, but it would be counterproductive for you to randomly break *all* the rules of daily life. Instead, be judicious and selective as you question conventions thoughtfully and only violate those that genuinely deserve to be spurned. Be a strategic rebel, not a chaotic one.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpio poet Sylvia Plath wrote this passage in her journal: "I desire the things which will destroy me in the end." I think you should consider embracing her approach—for the sheer, exotic thrill of it! Pursue interesting chaos! If it might unravel you, welcome it passionately! The more unruly, the better! APRIL FOOL! I lied. Plath was describing her struggle with depression, not offering us advice. Here’s what I think you should actually do: Examine which of your yearnings serve your evolution and which ones undermine it. Fully embrace the fact that intensity is one of your greatest gifts, but channel that intensity into experiences that build you up, not tear you down. Choose ardent aliveness over fervent destruction.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian philosopher Baruch Spinoza spent years alone in his room developing his radical ideas about God and nature. I recommend total isolation for you, too. In accordance with astrological omens, avoid human contact! Put your relationships on hold while you contemplate the infinite! APRIL FOOL! I totally lied. Spinoza's solitude served his unique genius, but a similar approach won’t work for you—especially now. Here’s what I really think you require in the coming weeks: periods of meditative alone time balanced by intervals of rich connection with interesting humans. You need to commune with both your deep inner sources and nurturing alliances.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn astrologer Linda Goodman wrote that your sign's "ambition is boundless" and that most Capricorns dream of ruling the world. In accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to indulge this attribute. Launch a campaign for global domination! Start with your neighborhood and work your way up to more and more conquests! APRIL FOOL! The truth is, world domination is exhausting and impractical. What Goodman was referring to is your gift for structure and leadership. Use your organizational genius to improve your corner of the world, not tyrannize it. Think stewardship, not empire.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian inventor Thomas Edison said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." In the spirit, I recommend that you falter spectacularly in the coming weeks. The more blunders and bungles, the better! Engage in a holy quest to seek as many fizzles and misfires as possible! Make Edison look like an amateur! APRIL FOOL! I lied. Edison wasn’t deliberately courting snafus, of course. His approach was similar to that of many creative artists: driven by exploratory persistence that capitalizes on mistakes and hassles. Here’s your real guidance, Aquarius: Experiment boldly, yes, and don't fear stumbles and bumbles. But learn from each one and adjust your approach. The goal is eventual success that’s informed by humility and resiliency.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Piscean physicist Albert Einstein said, "Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere." In the spirit of his genius, I recommend that you abandon logic completely! Never think rationally again! Make all decisions based on fantasy and feelings! APRIL FOOL! Einstein was advocating for the creative power of imagination, not the abandonment of reason. What you truly need is a marriage of visionary thinking and practical logic. Ask your imagination to show you possibilities, then call on lucid logic to help you manifest them.

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ACROSS

1 Genre for James Brown or Al Green, informally

6 Biblical name for Syria 10 International agreements

“That’s ___” (Dean Martin classic)

Plumb mad

Ancient Greek marketplace

Dwindled away

___ Aran, heroine of Nintendo’s Metroid

23 Gullible one 24 Pepper that’s two steps above poblano on the Scoville scale

25 Irritated outburst

28 Carnaval city, informally 30 Smallish batteries

Reservoir producer

Bounty

38 Favorable starting point of an auto 39

43 The Farm Service Agcy. is part of it 44 Some wand wielders

45 Trident-shaped letter

46 QB’s call 49 Write “their” for “there,” say

Slopping spot

Offensively odorous

Noted wildlife refuge

Cara of “Fame” fame

Digital capture

Enchantress of Greek mythology

Popular D.I.Y. website

Go after

Nincompoops

Rackets

Reduced to crumbs, say

33 Like some buns and bedrooms

1 What a fall guy has to take, with “the” 2 Home of the Big 12’s Cyclones

Terse denial

Remains 5 Leader of the Sharks in “West Side Story” 6 Gucci of fashion

7 Locales for some urban gardens

8 Like the accents in “déclassé”

Godzilla foe

Elbows and bow ties

Once more

Best-selling home computers of the 1980s

On the money

Observation

It might be a stretch for historians

an automobile tank … or boost the confidence of, in slang

chasm

Demon of

35 Org. for Wizards and Magic 36 Includes, in a way 37 One of the “six enemies of the mind,” in Hinduism

38 Big name in water filters

40 Old-fashioned word that’s a homophone of 49-Across 41 Distressing encounter 42 ___ Howard, Oscar-nominated actor for 2005’s “Hustle & Flow”

New workmates

Manipulate

52 Meager measure of compassion?

53 Traditional rice cake snack on Japanese New Year

54 Actor Zac of “High School Musical”

56 Singer with the 2009 #1 hit “Tik Tok” 57 Acronym on a W-2 58 Bluish-purple bloom

Wraps (up)

Tête-à-tête

Firefighting aid

X