Mountain Xpress 06.11.25

FEATURES PAGE 12 DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN

Are you in search of a good local podcast to listen to this summer? Xpress surveys a handful of options — from shows about beekeeping to episodic sci-fi productions and everything in between. Featured on this week’s cover is Veda Sands.

‘No

Unto These Hills,

news to GREEN@MOUNTAINX.COM a&e events and ideas to AE@MOUNTAINX.COM

can be submitted to CALENDAR@MOUNTAINX.COM

try our easy online calendar at MOUNTAINX.COM/EVENTS

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR: Jeff Fobes

ASSISTANT PUBLISHER: Susan Hutchinson

MANAGING EDITOR: Thomas Calder

EDITORS: Lisa Allen, Gina Smith

OPINION EDITOR: Tracy Rose

STAFF REPORTERS:

Lisa Allen, Thomas Calder, Brionna Dallara, Justin McGuire, Greg Parlier, Brooke Randle, Gina Smith

Intern: Amrit Brown

COMMUNITY CALENDAR & CLUBLAND: Braulio Pescador-Martinez

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

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS:

Christopher Arbor, Edwin Arnaudin, Danielle Arostegui, Mark Barrett, Eric Brown, Carmela Caruso, Cayla Clark, Molly Devane, Ashley English, Tessa Fontaine, Mindi Meltz Friedwald, Troy Jackson, Carol Kaufman, Bill Kopp, Chloe Leiberman, Morgan L. Sykes, Jessica Wakeman, Kay West, Clark Wilson, Jamie Zane

PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Caleb Johnson

Intern: Chad Truitt

ADVERTISING, ART & DESIGN MANAGER:

Susan Hutchinson

LEAD DESIGNER: Scott Southwick

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Tina Gaafary, Caleb Johnson, Olivia Urban

MARKETING ASSOCIATES: Emily Baughman, Sara Brecht, Dave Gayler

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES: Jeff Fobes, Mark Murphy, Scott Southwick

WEB: Brandon Tilley

BOOKKEEPER: Amie Fowler

OFFICE MANAGER: Mark Murphy

FRONT OFFICE: Caitlin Donovan, Lisa Watters

DISTRIBUTION: Susan Hutchinson, Kyle Ramser

DISTRIBUTION DRIVERS: Cass Kunst, Cindy

Courtney Israel Nash, Joey Nash, Carl & Debbie Schweiger, Gary Selnick,

Magical Offerings

Registry could help veterans with cancer

Mesothelioma is a rare asbestos-related cancer diagnosed in fewer than 3,000 people in the U.S. each year. Around 900 of these cases are seen exclusively in former military staff. This condition presents with a complex pathology, which, given its rarity, is difficult to identify during the early stages. This results in high rates of misdiagnoses, limited survival times and increased symptom burden.

From more than 615,000 veterans living in North Carolina, over 200,000 served in the military from 1940 to 1980, a time when asbestos use reached record levels. Much of this material was used by the U.S. military in shipbuilding, as well as in Army facilities and Air Force hangars, including in aircraft and vehicle components. Many of these locations still exist today, including Fort Bragg, Marine Corps Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Station New River and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. As a result of extensive asbestos use in this state, between 1999 and 2017, a total of 6,577 asbestos-related deaths were reported here. In Buncombe County, the estimated number of asbestos-related deaths in the same period was 195. From the total number of deaths, 1,159 casualties were linked to mesothelioma.

To address this problem, a National Mesothelioma Registry (NMR) was proposed, where all cases identified through periodic screening would be reported in real time. Researchers’ access to this database could potentially prompt more studies on better diagnosis procedures and treatments.

However, six years after this proposal, the registry is still not implemented. Limited data on feasibility, as well as funding issues, and public lack of awareness left the NMR incomplete. In this context, advocacy from veteran organizations could significantly increase

public awareness and exert political pressure on lawmakers, accelerating the adoption of this shared database.

— Jonathan Sharp Birmingham, Ala.

Editor’s note: Sharp is the chief financial officer at Environmental Litigation Group, a law firm that assists veterans exposed to asbestos and other toxic chemicals.

Democratic freedom truly matters

I thank Mountain Xpress and Duncan Grosboll [“My Story: Writing My Obituary, a How-to Manual and Love Note,” Jan. 8, Xpress]. He addresses what is important in life, his deep experience focusing on things that matter.

While being informed by politics is important, we need to first focus on our own inner life while working,

parenting and finding meaning in your life. Thus, I thank Duncan for his courage to share his journey. Let us each find and share our version of a sacred life and its message of possibilities during this difficult time.

I am an old man, born in 1935 when the Social Security Act was passed, with wars already outlawed by the international Kellogg-Briand Pact on peace in 1928. Looking back, I experienced the mutation of the American dream corrupted largely by the first atomic bombs, the Cold War and the Roaring ’20s that brought economic prosperity to the wealthy, along with the Great Depression and today’s consumer society.

For me, life has been a long, meandering journey through difficult mishaps, joyous moments, ups and downs, living in unchartered territories and finally winding up in Buncombe County in 1996. Can you imagine what life will be like 50-70 years from today?

I can’t. In 1935, the cost of a loaf of bread was 8 cents, and when I got my driver’s license, gas was about 29 cents a gallon. When I graduated from high school in 1953, the average salary was

Word of the week

less than $4,000 a year, and you could buy a new car for about $2,000. I continue to encourage lifelong learning for your inner growth because it’s so important for you and “we the people” to inform ourselves: Read, reflect and converse with others. Resist relying on secondhand opinions and form your own understanding of the world. It is a journey to true freedom that requires discipline and some form of contemplation or meditation on the miracle of life.

I have done this in my own life. I came to Asheville as a storyteller, and it was a great way to learn about North Carolina and the surrounding area east and west of us, including many retirement and nursing homes and some schools in the area, as well as Swannanoa, Black Mountain and Asheville. I also spent time facilitating Faith Formation at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Swannanoa and came to join other Christian ecumenical denominations in Asheville and Black Mountain.

Democracy is under attack. I considered my era a time when America was a “beacon of democracy.” We came out of the Depression and won World War II. But, I was naive. To hold onto democracy requires constant vigilance and informed people. Today, an entire political party, including many so-called Christians, consider it their duty to call political opponents enemies, control women’s bodies, disparage gay people, ridicule peace and justice activists and even a Christian bishop.

I am not a Democrat but support a democracy that helps informed people participate. Over the years, I have voted for a third party, voting my conscience rather than the “lesser of two evils.” My father voted against every incumbent in office, Democrat or Republican. He believed politicians in office too long become corrupt. Democratic freedom truly matters and requires you to read, reflect and participate with others.

I’d appreciate local Republican supporters informing me about why they support Donald Trump at esacco189@ gmail.com; that’s how I learn. — Ed Sacco Asheville

Editor’s note: A longer version of this letter will appear at mountainx.com.

Why cut successful AmeriCorps program?

[Regarding “DOGE Cuts AmeriCorps Program, Sending WNC Recovery Volunteers Home,” May 14, Blue Ridge Public Radio via Xpress:]

My family was so disheartened to hear that DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) eliminated AmeriCorps.

CARTOON BY RANDY MOLTON

This was a program whose bang for the buck is astounding. For every $1 invested in the program, directed usually at serving low-income communities, the governments using these volunteers get $17 back in services (from ICF study). We AmeriCorps volunteers live on a very small stipend that hardly pays the rent. And we work full days just like the bosses where we work.

Both my daughter and I worked in this program. She taught and organized middle school students in Knoxville about threatened waterways there. But she also taught herself and gained an appreciation for respecting innercity creeks and their buffer zones that has remained with her since, now as a 43-year-old mother of two.

I followed her, even though I am 36 years older. My site was here in Asheville, where I assisted MountainTrue (then called Western North Carolina Alliance). The first thing I did was compile a spreadsheet that included environmental groups and what outreach they did for low-income communities in Western North Carolina. State Sen. Julie Mayfield was my boss back then. In 2012, I joined with Asheville Buncombe Community Ministry to assist them in organizing low-income young parents who were mentored by local middle-income volunteers to meet the challenges of making it in adult society.

Both my daughter and I received bonuses at the end of our service. Hers

was to offset her student loan accrued during college at the University of Tennessee. I was able to pocket a lesser amount since I had no student loans.

I was happy to learn a few months ago that my granddaughter also was interested in serving as an AmeriCorps volunteer in WNC. But now I’m unhappy because this program was abandoned by our new leadership at the federal level.

Meanwhile, our national defense budget is set to reach $1 trillion next year. And the Defense Department hasn’t passed a full audit. The AmeriCorps program united youths and oldsters, created partnerships, and to my knowledge, never killed anyone. We were about building relationships, not tearing other countries apart.

I want to ask decision-makers who decide how money is spent in this country: “Why do you pick on those programs with proven records of success while also looking for ways to reduce taxes on the already rich and not touching a military budget that disrupts more than defends countries around the world? Why do we ship more weapons from our death mills to kill babies in Palestine and in Eastern Europe?”

But we can’t fund programs that strengthen local communities, many of whom were helped after last fall’s Hurricane Helene.

— Rachael Bliss Asheville X

CARTOON BY BRENT BROWN

Extracurricular activity

BY GREG PARLIER

gparlier@mountainx.com

It was a scene of raw democracy in action.

On June 3, Timothy Lloyd , president of the Asheville City Association of Educators (ACAE), led hundreds of boisterous public education advocates through downtown Asheville and around the Buncombe County administration building, demanding an increase to school funding, which the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners was voting on later that evening as part of the overall fiscal year 2025-26 budget.

“This is what democracy looks like,” the crowd chanted. “Public education is the future of our state. Support it, fund it. Our kids can't wait,” rallygoers yelled as they circled Pack Square Plaza.

Near the end of the demonstration, co-hosted by ACAE and the Buncombe County Association of Educators (BCAE), Lloyd told the crowd that an event of this magnitude had never been held prior to a county commission meeting. The crowd was so large that county staff turned away some rallygoers after the board's overflow room was full. Attendees were asked to sign in so staff could share with commissioners how many people came to support public school funding.

During their 5 p.m. meeting, commissioners approved $121.8 million in education funding for Asheville City and Buncombe County school systems and A-B Tech. The Asheville City Association of Educators had advocated for a combined $126.3 million for the two school systems. (Read more about the overall budget on Page 9.)

In an email exchange with Xpress after the vote, Shanna Peele , president of the BCAE, described the budget as part of a “pattern of disinvestment ... [that] aligns with our state general assembly and federal administration that aims to dismantle public education, despite the overwhelming community demand for change.”

Peele noted her pride in the way local educators and residents have continued to show up to support public schools. But she emphasized, “we are not pleased with the final budget.

“This budget still underfunds our schools by millions. Our kids are still learning in underresourced classrooms and staff are stretched to the brink. This budget preserves a man-made crisis — and calling it progress doesn't make it so. Our students deserve full funding, not political spin."

All photos by Chad Truitt.  X

Teachers, students and parents rally for school funding

‘You need to hear it’

Education advocates displeased with county budget, despite commissioners avoiding further cuts to schools

BY MORGAN L. SYKES

Although dozens of residents asked the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners to increase education funding at its June 3 meeting, the board voted, 5-2, for the post-Tropical Storm Helene status quo. One speaker was so passionate about funding education, she refused to give up the microphone and was escorted out.

Residents filled the county chamber and two overflow rooms while hundreds more assembled outside as the board adopted a $433 million general fund budget that includes $121.8 million for Asheville City Schools (ACS), Buncombe County Schools (BCS) and A-B Tech for fiscal year 2025-26. It’s the same amount schools ended up with in the current fiscal year after the county clawed back $4.7 million when post-storm revenues fell.

Advocates wanted commissioners to boost education funding to a combined $126.3 million for the two school systems by raising ACS district taxes by nearly 13%, from 10.62 cents per $100 assessed value to 12 cents. Commissioners settled on 11 cents. The adopted budget also includes a 5.6% property tax rate increase countywide, plus the 3.6% increase for residents in the ACS district. With its approval, county residents with property assessed at $400,000 will pay $116 more per year, and those in the ACS district will pay an additional $15.20 per year atop the county tax.

Commissioners were grappling with $11.8 million less in anticipated property and sales tax revenues and a nearly tapped-out reserve fund, as presented by Budget Director John Hudson. To trim the proposed tax rate increase from 55.02 cents to 54.66, commissioners opted to delay $1.9 million in employee retirement contributions. Employees, however, will receive a 3% salary increase.

Cuts included a $4.6 million reduction in county operating budgets, $7.5 million less in salaries due to vacancies and staggering start dates, and $4.6 million less in discretionary community investments. By function, only public safety received a slightly larger budget, going from $95.9 million to $98.4 million.

‘MORE ON OUR OWN THAN EVER’

Most residents who attended the meeting wanted to talk about education. Henry Wilson, a kindergartner at Lucy S. Herring Elementary, had to be lifted to the microphone by his mother, April Wilson. “I like learning so many new things at specials,” Henry said. “My three favorite specials are library, P.E. and Spanish. We have a really nice garden so I can learn about plants and compost. I hope you decide to help my school and kids like me.”

His mother said his comments were “all Henry. He came up with facts with things that were special about his school.” Henry exclaimed, loud enough to be heard without the microphone, “I couldn’t even write it all down on one page!”

Carl Davis, research director at the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy and a parent of two Buncombe County schoolchildren, said the “overwhelming trend is lower and lower state-level taxes. With the tax-cutting path we’re on, we need to accept that we as a community are more on our own than ever. If we want great schools, we need to pay.”

Many parents, teachers and community members emphasized the benefit to everyone if schools are fully funded, mentioning increased prop-

erty values, stronger local labor force, reduced gun violence and reduced achievement gaps.

Isaac Dickson first grade teacher Kensley Herbst begged commissioners “not to balance the budget on the backs of students, the backs of my 7-year-olds. The fact that most of you aren’t even looking at me right now, this is a choice you’re making. You are choosing to prioritize something over children. You are choosing to take money from kids who can’t speak English, from kids who don’t have a good home. This isn’t what I’ve written down, but I found I’m really

angry. … Everyone has been nice. You need to hear it. … Almost all of you ran on public education, and then you do this; you are proving that you are a liar and do not care about kids.”

When the buzzer went off signaling the end of her time, Herbst refused to yield: “I’m going to keep talking.”

Board Chair Amanda Edwards directed bailiffs to escort Herbst from the chambers.

'RAISING TAXES IS NOT THE ANSWER'

Only two speakers urged commissioners to keep taxes where they are. Jim Fulton said there has been “a 53% increase to school funding in 10 years” and noted that people are still recovering from Helene. Janet Burke-Jones, a former teacher, said she “never got paid enough; [money] shouldn’t be why you’re there in the first place.” She urged commissioners to “vote with your heads, not hearts, when faced with teacher unions. It’s an emergency still for a lot of us. Raising taxes is not the answer.”

Commissioner Terri Wells, who voted for adoption, said she wholeheartedly supports not cutting school funding but added that it was the most challenging budget she’s faced while on the board. “This is not the budget any of us would wish for, but it represents a responsible path forward.”

Commissioner Parker Sloan cast a “no"”vote, explaining, “It’s too reliant on luck. We’re at the limit of our emergency fund. The federal government is doing everything it can to raise prices on everything. Things could get worse. We are at risk of recession.”

Commissioner Martin Moore cast the other dissenting vote, saying his reasons mirrored Sloan’s.

Edwards said she was “proud of where we landed tonight. We fought for every penny.” And echoing Sloan and Moore, she added, “We must prepare for the next disaster.” X

TIMEOUT: After going over her allotted time for public comment, Kensley Herbst, a first grade teacher, was escorted out of the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners chamber by a bailiff. Photo by Chad Truitt

Growing pains

Education board focuses on future capacity needs of its south Buncombe County schools

BY GREG PARLIER

The Buncombe County Board of Education is concerned about how an increasing population in southern Buncombe County is affecting its schools, and the board is starting to plan for how it can pay to expand its campuses to accommodate this growth. Despite a decline in overall enrollment numbers in area public schools since 2020, the population in Buncombe County Schools’ (BCS) largest district (which feeds its largest high school, T.C. Roberson), has remained relatively flat. Meanwhile, more residential units — about 1,100 — are planned in the Roberson district than anywhere else in the county, according to building permits compiled by BCS staff.

“There has been conversation throughout the community about the capacity and the size of our schools and the impact of the growth in southern Buncombe County,” noted BCS Superintendent Rob Jackson

William W. Estes Elementary, in particular, has more students than it has room for in brick-and-mortar buildings, requiring it to rely on modular units to house some classrooms. A renovation project is already underway to expand Estes.

Board Vice Chair Amy Churchill, who represents the Roberson district, told Xpress after the board’s June 5 meeting that parents have expressed concern about higher-than-average class sizes in elementary schools in southern Buncombe County. She requested that the board add consideration of its facility needs to the agenda so the district can start planning for how it can handle a potentially increasing school population.

Jackson told the board that while enrollment in Roberson district schools declined slightly this year, likely due to Tropical Storm Helene, enrollment had been trending up in that district the previous few years.

Churchill said the district needs to start considering future capacity needs earlier than it normally would because of a state law that is still being considered in the N.C. General Assembly that could change how school districts fund capital projects. One option discussed by the board was the possibility of borrowing money for capital projects using a schools general obligation bond, which would require resident approval

CAPACITY CONSIDERATIONS: Buncombe County Board of Education Vice Chair Amy Churchill, left, added a discussion of increasing population in southern Buncombe County to the board's June 5 agenda. Also pictured, from left, are board members Kim Plemmons and Charles Martin. Photo by Greg Parlier

on a general election ballot. That option likely wouldn’t be available until at least the 2026 November election, noted board attorney Dean Shatley

“We’re starting early to look at all the options that we have,” Churchill said.

STUDENTS LOBBY TO ELIMINATE UNIFORM REQUIREMENT

This year, only one Buncombe County school required students to wear uniforms — Charles T. Koontz Intermediate. Thanks to a student-led survey at the school, that will change next school year after the school board voted 7-0 to eliminate the requirement.

Koontz Principal Reginald Bright reported that a survey showed that 91% of students, 53% of parents and 77% of teachers voted against the uniform requirement.

Sandra Roberts, a student at Koontz who said she did “hours of research” in support of the conducted survey, told the board that it's vital for students to be able to express themselves through their fashion choices.

“Most people who have had to wear uniforms are very confused about themselves,” she said.

Koontz serves students in fifth and sixth grades.

PARKING COSTS TO INCREASE FOR STUDENTS AT BCS HIGH SCHOOLS

The Buncombe County school board voted 7-0 to increase parking fees for students at its high schools from $60 to $80 a year after a short discussion.

Board member Charles Martin said he has heard of some students parking in neighborhoods near their school instead of on campus to avoid parking fees and asked if it was wise to add

a burden for families as they recover from Tropical Storm Helene. Jackson said staff had carefully considered the viewpoints of school principals, and waivers were available for students from low-income families. This is the first raise in parking fees since 2020, he added. Board member Kim Plemmons said parking was more expensive at Asheville High School, which is in the Asheville City Schools (ACS) district.

ACS spokesperson Kim Dechant said the limited parking available for students at Asheville High School costs $100 per year. X

PLANNING AHEAD: Buncombe County Schools Superintendent Rob Jackson said schools in the southern portion of Buncombe County could be primed for significant growth after an influx of residential units are constructed, as planned. Photo by Greg Parlier

BULLETIN BOARD

by Lisa Allen | lallen@mountainx.com

TRAILBLAZER

Elizabeth Williams, executive director of Mountain Aging Partners, was awarded the 2025 Trailblazer Award on May 28 by the Land of Sky Regional Council. Williams was recognized for her pioneering leadership, bold collaboration and unwavering advocacy for older adults in Western North Carolina. Mountain Aging Partners is a new nonprofit created through the strategic merger of Council on Aging for Henderson County and MountainCare. X

Lost Perspective

Center for Cultural Preservation is debuting the documentary Color Beyond the Lines to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Hendersonville integrating its schools. But the integration came at a cost. Edward King, an alumnus of Ninth Avenue School, who is interviewed in the film says, “Growing up we knew that we had to outperform, out think and out read the white community if we were to succeed. We had a great pride in our Black schools and we felt like something was taken away from us.” The film by David Weintraub will have its world premiere at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at the Thomas Auditorium at Blue Ridge Community College, Flat Rock. To order tickets, go to avl.mx/eus. X

Juneteenth events

The Martin Luther King Jr. Association of Asheville and Buncombe County and the City of Asheville will hold several events throughout June as part of the 2025 Juneteenth Celebration. All events are free and open to the public. They range from short-film screenings and discussions to a gala and fashion show. For all of the events, go to avl.mx/euf X

June 14 is Flag Day. It is also President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. This year, the Trump administration has planned a military parade in Washington, D.C., for this day. According to NPR, the event is estimated to cost $45 million. In response to the parade, Indivisible, a pro-democracy organization, has partnered with local groups across the country to host No Kings Nationwide Day of Defiance. In Western North Carolina, several events are set to take place with assistance from organizations such as Good Trouble WNC and WNC Rise Together.

• Asheville: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 50 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive; and 1:30-3:30 p.m., Pack Square

• Hendersonville: 10 a.m.-noon at the courthouse, 200 N. Grove St.

• Sylva: 10 a.m.-noon, at the fountain on West Main Street in front of the Jackson County Public Library

• Waynesville: noon-1:30 p.m., Haywood County Courthouse, 285 N. Main St. For the latest list, go to avl.mx/eub X

The Rotary Club of Asheville awarded 21 Tennent Scholarships to graduating seniors from nine high schools in Buncombe County. The club has donated $72,300 in scholarships this year. Tennant Scholarships range from $2,000 to $4,000 and are based on need and an interview.

AWARDEES INCLUDE:

• Asheville High School: Colton Peizer Kelischek, Harmoni Alyse Jackson, Isaiah Wesley Huggins, Lila James Stevenson, Siena Kathleen Gentry, Sophia Bella Glover and Zianthony Kenny Williams

• Enka High School: Alexsander Santana-Delgado, Karen Uribe-Huizache and Kyndall Morgan Rector.

• Erwin High School: Camilo Andres Urbina Mora and Ivy Liu Ward

• Nesbitt Academy: Demarrion Terell Brown

• North Buncombe High School.: Ava Elizabeth Rendel and Kaitlyn Jaide Richards

• Odyssey School: Adelaide Milling.

• Owen High School: Ezzie Jaz Noteboom and Joshua Fredric Zeigler.

• Reynolds High School: Jayden Rose Thomas.

• SILSA: Aiden Patrick Bell Short and Sydney Desiree Dickson

For more information: avl.mx/eue. X

Ian Hawke is not only handsome but he’s friendly too, says the staff at Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. Ian immediately greets you with a soft purr and gentle rub of his cheek. He’ll be in your lap not too long after that. Ian is affectionate, playful and social. Go to www.bwar.org to find out more about Ian Hawke and see all available cats, kittens, dogs and puppies. X

Download and listen

A survey of local podcasts reveals a wide range of niche topics

BY BRIONNA DALLARA

Summer travel and poolside afternoons are right around the corner. Both scenarios are ideal for plugging into a podcast. If you’re on the hunt for local shows that offer glimpses into niche corners of the community, we’ve got a handful of potential options for you — from podcasts about beekeeping to episodic horror and sci-fi productions and everything in between.

All shows featured in this roundup can be streamed on Apple Podcast and Spotify. This is not a comprehensive list of all local podcasts. If you have a favorite Western North Carolina-based show, feel free to send suggestions for future coverage to news@mountainx.com with the subject line, “Local podcast.”

GO AND FIND OUT

Podcaster Jonny Wright’s “Go and Find Out” was inspired by his 16-month trip around the world. In the first episode, “Leaving it All,” Wright takes the faithful move of sticking out his thumb and hitchhiking his way out of Asheville. The journey ultimately led him across Europe, India and Southeast Asia. In his travels, Wright meets strangers, faces fears and explores what it means to live beyond the mapped-out life.

“The series tells the story of getting lost on purpose and finding not only adventure but questions about what it means to be human,” Wright says.

Listening to Wright's passionate storytelling, combined with the immersive sounds and poetic reflections, will leave you questioning where your next chapter begins. Wright recommends the podcast for those navigating changes — be it professional, personal or a combination of the two. The show, he says, is for “people who are faced with both the thrill and threat of change.”

Episodes are released every Thursday. The show is currently in its first season, which runs through August. Season Two is scheduled to launch next spring.

ALL JAMMED UP

Inspired by host Clint Dodson’s desire to be more involved in Asheville’s “jam band” community, the “All Jammed Up” podcast strings together interviews with local musicians and

music lovers. While the show’s main focus is on jam bands and bluegrass, Dodson says the podcast is suited for “anyone who loves music — specifically live music and improvisational music.”

Dodson’s laid-back approach to interviews creates a casual but candid conversation between the host and his guests, who recount stories from the road and jam sessions as well as discuss inspiration and craft. For example, a recent episode featured violinist Lyndsay Pruett, who discusses her career as a clogging prodigy and classically trained musician.

Episodes are typically an hour or longer and released every Monday and Thursday.

BAD LUCK MAGIC

Listening to podcaster Malorie “Mal” Burden is like getting a tarot reading from a friend at Cafe Astrology. Burden describes “Bad Luck Magic” as a podcast for anyone navigating healing, growth or just trying to make sense of life’s messier moments.

Burden launched the podcast in 2022 after a series of personal struggles, including career burnout, low selfworth and the grief from losing a par-

ent. Her unguarded narration paired with themes about processing emotions and taking aligned action are sources of comfort to those on a healing journey.

“What once felt like bad luck became portals of transformation,” she says, explaining the podcast’s title. “My mission is to help others access their courage in tough moments — not just to survive them but to create something meaningful from them.”

Burden also sprinkles in astrology and tarot, plus occasional chats with women who’ve forged their own path, such as Jocelin Rosas, former Erwin Middle Community School coordinator for United Way, who walked 500 miles across Spain, and Brooklynbased freelance magazine journalist Brittany Leitner

Solo episodes are released at the beginning and middle of each month on Sunday mornings. Guest episodes are released quarterly on Wednesdays.

DARK CORNERS

Attention horror fans: Consider the chilling podcast “Dark Corners” to cool off this summer. Narrated and written by David Allen Voyles, the author recommends his podcast for fans of the

original “Twilight Zone” series who prefer the horror dial “turned even darker.”

The serialized episodes are broken up in chapterlike fashion and are set to the backdrop of dark ambient horror soundtracks produced by Raleigh-based composer Mombi Yuleman. A haunting pair, Voyles wrote two spinoff stories inspired by Yuleman's Witch-works and Wraiths of the Appalachian albums.

The latest season, titled “Wraiths of the Appalachian,” has 13 eerie episodes that weave in Appalachian folklore with the main character Eddie’s terrifying journey through the mountain region, guided by an unsettling voice cast through his '66 Volkswagen van stereo.

In addition to “Dark Corners,” Voyles is currently working on his latest podcast, “Edgar,” a fictional reimagining of writer Edgar Allan Poe’s early life and the inspiration behind his future work. The show is set to release in late July.

THE FLIGHT OF THE BUCKET

“The Flight of the Bucket” is a comedic, 10-episode, sci-fi story written by Troy Burnette and Adam Jack Arthur of SuperHappy Productions. Arthur describes it as "a comedy where a decrepit old spaceship manages to keep flying high ... just not as high as its captain.”

The production follows a quirky crew of six aboard the SS Watercress as they sail through space under the leadership of a very intoxicated Cap’n Standard, voiced by Darren Marshall Throughout their journey they must overcome a series of strange encounters such as mutant rats planning a coup.

In addition to “The Flight of the Bucket,” the SuperHappy crew is working on a new audio drama, “From Within” — a Lovecraftian thriller set in a remote town during the Great Depression. It is set for a late summer or early fall release.

THE MOUNTAIN MAGNOLIA’S PODCAST

“The Mountain Magnolia’s Podcast” brings to life the personalities and stories of business owners, church members and local residents of the Swannanoa Valley. The show was launched by Mary Noble Braden and Lee Ann Lewis. In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, however, Lewis stepped back from her hosting duty. Braden has continued the show as a solo host, sitting down with guests to reveal the heart and soul of the community.

The most recent episode involves a conversation with Trevor and Kathryn Rudisill, owners of the boutique hotel the Peri Social House in Black Mountain. Listening to the interview

LOCAL POD: Are you in search of a good local podcast? There are plenty to choose from. Photo of local model Veda Sands by Chad Truitt

is like exploring the domicile itself as the Rudisills share their journey from owning a gem mine to opening the 14-room hotel that features a cafe and bar. They also offer inside scoops about the business, including the fact that the Black Mountain Craft Circle meets every Wednesday at their site.

WHAT’S RAY SAYING?

Podcaster Ray Christian encapsulates all the elements of good storytelling: strong narrative structure, unique themes and ambient sound bites. Christian — a 12-time Moth StorySLAM winner — shares personal stories from his life as a combat veteran, historian, part-time goat wrangler and father of six living in the rural mountains of Appalachia in his show "What's Ray Saying?"

Christian ties centuries of Black history into his own experiences as he recounts stories from growing up in the region and discusses the cultural and historic significance of specific events, traditions and organizations with guests. The podcast is ideal for those middle-aged and older and young social-justice-oriented people, Christian says. There are also episodes featuring Christian’s wife, Tiffany Christian,

who took the host seat in the recent episode “Crown of Blooms,” to interview the couple's daughter, author and award-winning storyteller Juniper Ray Christian-Dickens.

BEEKEEPING AT FIVE APPLE FARM

June is National Pollinator Month, which makes the final podcast spotlighted on this list timely. Farmer Leigh Wilkerson hosts “Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm” from her Fairview property.

The show is ideal for those who've got the bee basics down but want to dive deeper into the biology and skills of beekeeping, Wilkerson says.

“Beekeeping — meaning keeping your bees alive, healthy and ongoing — is not easy, no matter what anyone might tell you,” Wilkerson says. “Keeping them alive and healthy in the current world requires skill and thoughtful beekeeping.”

Wilkerson shares tips, tricks and stories on sustainable beekeeping in a way that makes listeners feel as though they're standing beside her in their own bee suit getting firsthand knowledge and instruction on the farm. And the host's gentle tone is about as sweet as honey. X

Music From:

• Company Swing featuring Anne Coombs, Jazz, Centric Swing, Funk, Blues

• Moon and You Band, Husband and Wife Folk Duo

• Kim Nelson, Professional Keyboard Player, Vocalist

or low chairs, for an evening of music and camaraderie.

Benefiting Veteran Women

Aura Home Women Vets is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization working to prevent homelessness for women veterans in WNC first through prevention and second by offering safe housing.

JUNE. 11 - JUNE 19, 2025

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 25

WELLNESS

Free Community

Functional Fitness

Build muscular endurance through exercises that focus on multiple repetitions with lower weights while moving in all planes of motion.

WE (6/11, 18), 10:15am, YWCA of Asheville, 185 S French Broad Ave

Community Yoga & Mindfulness

Free monthly event with Inspired Change Yoga that will lead you into a morning of breathwork, meditation and yoga.

WE (6/11), 10:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Full Moon Serenity

Sound Bath

Celebrate the Full Moon by immersing yourself with the healing vibrations of a Sound Bath.

WE (6/11), 6:30pm, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way

Free Community Zumba Gold

This class introduces easy-to-follow zumba choreography that focuses on balance, range of motion, and coordination.

TH (6/12, 19), 10am, YWCA of Asheville, 185 S French Broad Ave

CIRCL Mobility

Through specifically designed macro and micro mobility components, you’ll renew the body’s movement potential, achieve better performance, and recover quicker.

SA (6/14), 9am, World Dance Asheville, 1269 Tunnel Rd, Ste F

Yoga in the Park

All-level friendly yoga classes based on Hatha & Vinyasa traditions.

SA (6/14), SU ((6/15), 10am, W Asheville Park, 198 Vermont Ave

Wild Souls Authentic Movement w/Renee Trudeau

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

XPRESS EVENT PICK

The Meadow at Highland Brewing Co. 12 Old Charlotte Hwy Saturday, June 14, 6 p.m.

A dynamic four-piece band hailing from Asheville that brings a unique blend of rock, funk and indie vibes.

If you know me, you know I like to boogie. And if you’re like me, you love the sultry, juicy, original beats of the up-and-coming funk rock four-piece Fresh Buzz. Put them in a summer meadow at my favorite brewery and you’ve got yourself a succulent Saturday night. It doesn’t hurt that all four of these guys play their instruments with the joy of a boy leaving school for the last time, while an entire summer lies ahead.”

— Greg Parlier X

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

stress while celebrating community.

SU (6/15), 9:30am, Dunn's Rock Community Center, 461 Connestee Rd, Brevard

Barn Yoga

Community Yoga class with Fairview-based yogi Mary Beth, who teaches a gentle and vinyasa flow.

SU (6/15), 10am, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview

Sunday Morning Meditation Group

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

SU (6/15), 10am, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Candlelight Flow Yoga

A breath-centered practice that blends gentle movement and mindfulness to release tension, restore balance, and leave you feeling grounded and renewed.

SU (6/15), 5pm, Asheville Happy Body, 25 Reed St, Ste 210

Tai Chi Open Clinic

All are welcome in this new curriculum course, regardless of the style of internal martial arts you practice, your skill development or age level.

SU (6/15), 7pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Yoga & Coffee

Practice on the outdoor deck, get the body and mind balanced, and then you can hang out after for some coffee, tea and pastries.

TU (6/17), 9:30am, Cooperative Coffee Shop, 210 Haywood Rd

Active Breathwork

A dynamic class designed to awaken your body, release stored emotions, and bring clarity to your mind.

TH (6/19), 7:15pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

SUPPORT GROUPS

Disordered Eating/ Eating Disorders

This support group is peer-led and facilitated by licensed therapists & dietitians specializing in eating disorders. Register at avl.mx/es6.

WE (6/11, 18), 6pm, Online

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

TH (6/12, 19), 4:30pm, Asheville 12-Step Recovery Club, 1 Kenilworth Knolls Unit 4

A REASON TO CELEBRATE: Studio A at Pink Dog Creative marks its 12th anniversary on Saturday, June 14, starting at 3 p.m. The day will include giveaways, special discounts of Andrea Kulish’s work and refreshments. The studio features Ukrainian pysanky eggs, workshops, mixed-media artwork, notecards, demonstrations and more. Photo by Clay Nations Photography courtesy of Kulish

Mad Hatter’s Collective: Hearing Voices Network

A group collective that gathers to talk about encounters with visual, tactile, sensational, or fringe experiences with life and the interaction of energy.

TH (6/12, 19), 6pm, 12 Baskets Cafe, 610 Haywood Rd Magnetic Minds: Depression & Bipolar Support Group

A free weekly peer-led meeting for those living with depression, bipolar, and related mental health challenges. For more information contact (828) 367-7660.

SA (6/14), 2pm, First Congregational UCC of Asheville, 20 Oak St

Maternal Mental Health Support Group for Mommas w/Sistas Caring 4 Sistas

Sistas Caring 4 Sistas invites you to an afternoon of mental health support.

MO (6/16), 3pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Dementia Support Group

This free community group meets every month on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday at the Woodfin YMCA and 1st and 3rd Monday at the Asheville YMCA.

MO (6/16), 6pm, Asheville YMCA, 30 Woodfin St

Families Anonymous Meeting

Gain support from others who have had lived experiences with a family member or friends substance abuse and related behavioral health challenges.

TU (6/17), 6pm, Love

and Respect Community for Recovery and Wellness, 350 Chadwick Ave Ste 300, Hendersonville Al-Anon

Are you concerned about someone’s drinking? This support group meets on a weekly basis. For more information on Al-anon, visit www.alanon.org.

WE (6/18), 11:30am, Grace Lutheran Church, 1245 6th Ave West, Hendersonville

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 (6/11, 18), 8pm, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

Parent & Me Dance: Fun in the Sun

A beach themed dance intended for Toddlers, ages 1.5 to 3 years. We will wiggle, giggle, jump and dance together.

SA (6/14), 9am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain Kids in Motion 1: Fun in the Sun Get ready to move, groove, and have a blast this summer with Kids in Motion 1, intended for ages 3 to 4.

SA (6/14), 9:30am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Kids in Motion 2: Fun in the Sun

Get ready to move, groove, and have a blast this summer with Kids in Motion 1, intended for ages 5 to 7.

SA (6/14), 10am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Broadway Jazz: Youth Dance Class (Ages 8 - 14)

Dance and jive to all of your musical theater favorites.

SA (6/14), 10:45am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Monday Night Contra Dance

Contra dancing is a fun, social dance for everyone. Follow a lesson at 7 p.m. and then dance to a live band and caller at 7:30 p.m.

ART

Joël Urruty: Connection

Through a striking collection of figurative and abstract sculptures, Urruty explores the profound theme of human connection—the ways we come together, drift apart, and remain invisibly linked. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through June 14.

Gallery Mélange, 67 Biltmore Ave, Ste 20

Ursula Gullow: Nightbloom Gullow’s artwork embraces the decorative arts while reframing the female presence in Western art and rescu-

ing historical imagery from its patriarchal forebears. Gallery open Wednesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through June 21. Tracey Morgan Gallery, 22 London Rd

Viewshed Exhibition

The exhibition highlights works that span painting, textile, sound, and performance, inviting viewers to consider the ways in which artistic methodologies evolve and reverberate across time. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through August, 16, 2025.

Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St

Against the Grain: Landscape & Sculpture

This intensely collaborative show features lathe turned wood sculptures by Jim Brandon alongside pastel paintings by Mike Wurman. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 10am. Exhibition through June 22.

Mars Landing Galleries, 37 Library St, Mars Hill Art in the Park Painting Classes In this relaxed and supportive environment, you'll learn fundamental painting techniques guided by experienced and passionate instructors. All necessary art supplies will be provided.

TH (6/12), 2pm, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd

WNC Craft Futures: From Here

The exhibition celebrating 40 artists provides a view into the deep well of craft

skill and creativity from here while also offering a glimpse of where our community can go in the aftermath of a devastating storm. TH (6/12), 5:30pm, Center for Craft, 67 Broadway

Flora Symbolica: The Art of Flowers

The exhibition features the work of celebrated photographer and artist Edward Steichen, whose life-long infatuation with flowers deeply affected his artistic vision. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through July 28. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Coatlicue & Las Meninas: The Stanford Edition

The focal point of the exhibition is Lasch’s newest addition, a tenfoot black mirror merging Diego Velázquez’s iconic painting Las Meninas (1656) and the monumental sculpture of the Mexica deity Coatlicue (1400s). Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through July 13.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Enchanted Garden Art Show

Discover a magical blend of art and nature in this outdoor sculpture invitational featuring works by eight artists from North Carolina and beyond. Gallery open Monday through Sunday, 10am. Exhibition through Sept. 21. Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd

Fresh Buzz

Iron & Ink Exhibition

This exhibition focuses on a dynamic era in American history—the Machine Age—when industrialization and advances in technology transformed urban landscapes and redefined the nature of work and leisure nationwide. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through Sept. 27.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

COMMUNITY MUSIC

Park Rhythms Concert Series

This year’s series will consist of four free shows on Thursday evenings between June through July. The 2025 lineup will kickoff with folk musician Colby T. Helms from southwest Virigina.

TH (6/12), 6pm, Black Mountain Town Square, Black Mountain

Chuck Brodsky

Chuck is storyteller, a songwriter and troubadour that celebrates the goodness in people.

FR (6/13), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Bluegrass & Brews

Enjoy sips and a live bluegrass performance from Bear Creek String Bandits followed by Cast Iron Bluegrass. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs to sit comfortably.

SA (6/14), 2pm, Corner of Eagle St. and Market St., 18 Eagle St

Free Planet Radio w/ Aparna Keshaviah

Free Planet Radio returns with a special set of material selected to accompany classically trained Bharatanatyam dancer and innovative movement artist, Aparna Keshaviah.

SA (6/14), 7:30pm, AyurPrana Listening Room, 312 Haywood Rd

Alan Mearns Classical Guitar

Alan Mearns was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland. He began his musical studies with the classical violin at age five, switching to the guitar at age ten.

SU (6/15), 3pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

One Night Only & Super Trouper: A Tribute to the BeeGees & ABBA

Get ready for a spectacular tribute show that brings the timeless music of ABBA and the Bee Gees to life.

SU (6/15), 3pm and 7:30pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 South Washington St, Hendersonville

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

Using AI to Improve Profits & Efficiencies in Your Small Business

This seminar is designed to demystify AI, translating complex concepts into plain English and demonstrating why these tools are rapidly becoming indispensable for boosting efficiency and profitability.

WE (6/11), 10am, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler

Simply Charmed Jewelry Workshop

This hands on workshop is drop in friendly and for ages 8 and up who are interested in jewelry making. After a quick demo by the instructor you can take up to 45 minutes to complete your masterpiece.

WE (6/11, 18), TU (6/17), 11am, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 191 Lyman St, Ste 262

Building Resilience: 3 Part Workshop

Explore how stress impacts the nervous system, how to calm and ground yourself, and care for yourself emotionally, mentally and physically to remain strong.

WE (6/11), 5:30pm, YWCA of Asheville, 185 S. French Broad Ave

How to Quickly

Create a Wix Website that Shines for Your Business

This step-by-step guide will empower you to express yourself and build your online presence no matter what type of entrepreneur you are. Register at avl.mx/eu9.

TH (6/12), noon, Online Farm-to-Table Cooking Class

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this course is designed to inspire you to create vibrant, flavorful dishes while connecting with your community’s food sources.

TH (6/12), 5:30pm, North Carolina Cooperative Extension-Madison County Center, 258 Carolina Ln, Marshall Breathe, Renew, Release: A Breathwork Workshop for Spring into Summer Energy

Experience the transformative power of breathwork in this two-hour workshop designed to help you clear out old energy and embrace the new.

TH (6/12), 6pm, Still Point Wellness, 946 Tunnel Rd

Magical Resistance Workshop

A one-hour class that will provide attendees with some ideas and magical techniques for supporting yourself and community, to

help ensure that we’re all staying safe in this tumultuous political climate.

FR (6/13), 6pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Build Your Own Wooden Boat

Thanks to modern materials and techniques, boat building is accessible even to beginners.

SA (6/14), 9:30am, Trinity View Retirement Community, 2553 Hendersonville Rd, Arden

Living with Fire: Building, Tending, Honoring

Create a complete fire-making kit, fully equipped for backcountry adventures, or simply lighting your woodstove and have greater comfort and confidence in starting and maintaining fires.

SA (6/14), 10am, Weavervillee

Yoga & 12 Step Recovery

Open to anyone impacted by substance use and behavioral health concerns. Learn coping skills to calm your mind, ease your pain, and handle life’s stressors with more grace, substance free.

TU (6/17), 8:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave,

Crafting Your Business Plan: Business Description (Part 1)

You will learn tools for reviewing your Executive Summary, Products and Services and your Business Description. Register at avl.mx/euy.

TU (6/17), 10am, Online

Crafting Your Business Plan: Marketing (Part 2)

Attendees will learn how to understand the market for your business—from your customer to your competition, to your own unique value proposition. Register at avl.mx/euz.

WE (6/18), 10am, Online

Change Your Palate Cooking Demo

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

WE (6/18), noon, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Building Resilience: 3 Part Workshop

Review the importance of rest and recovery in building resilience. Identify practical strategies for new ways to rest and learn how to set boundaries to prioritize and protect your wellbeing.

WE (6/18), 5:30pm, YWCA of Asheville, 185 S.French Broad Ave

Crafting Your Business Plan: Financials (Part 3)

Learn why businesses borrow money, what lenders are looking for when reviewing your application, and the importance of having cash flow projections. Register at avl.mx/ev0.

TH (6/19), 10am, Online

Couch to 5K Training Learn techniques, habits, and helpful tips each week to improve pace and form so you can run happy and healthy.

TH (6/19), 5:30pm, YWCA of Asheville, 185 S French Broad Ave

LITERARY

Poetry Open Mic Asheville

This open mic welcomes any form of artistic expression from poetry to improv theatre to music to dance. 5 and 10 minute slots available.

WE (6/11, 18), 8:30pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave

Tessa Fontaine: The Red Grove

Tessa Fontaine will visit City Lights to share her debut novel, The Red Grove.

TH (6/12), 6pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St, Sylva Storytelling w/Ray Christian

This event features storytelling from 12-time moth story slam winner and featured teller at the National Storytelling festival.

TH (6/12), 7pm, Weaverville Community Center, 60 Lakeshore Dr, Weaverville

Flooded Poetry

Each poet will be able to share 2-3 poems, and occasionally we will have local celebrity poets close out our night with a featured reading.

MO (6/16), 6:30pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200

Chestfeeding for Queer & Trans Parents

Author Jacob Engelsman shares his new book Lactation for the Rest of Us, a guide for trans parents, queer parents, adoptive parents, and others who are often left out of conversations about chestfeeding.

TH (6/19), 6pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd

Asheville Storyslam: Hospitality Cook up a five-minute story about the beauty and occasional chaos of saying, “Come on in.” Early mornings, late nights, clopening, or back-to-back doubles.

TH (6/19), 7:30pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

THEATER & FILM

Beautfiul: The Carole King Musical

This extraordinary musical tells the incredible true story of Carole King, whose journey from a young songwriter to an iconic star will captivate audiences of all ages.

WE (6/11, 18), TH (6/12, 19), FR (6/13), SA (6/14), 7:30pm, SU (6/15), 2pm, Flat Rock Playhouse, 2661 Greenville Hwy, Flat Rock

Community Improv Jam

Misfit Improv group leads a jam where everybody gets a chance to play. All are welcome for newbies to vets.

TH (6/12), 7pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Next to Normal

A powerful rock musical about a mother’s struggle with mental illness and its impact on her family, Next to Normal is an unflinching, deeply moving journey through love, loss, and healing.

TH (6/12), FR (6/13), SA (6/14), 7:30pm, SU (6/15), 2pm, Hart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville

Free Kung Fu Movie Night

A showing of the movie the 36th Chamber of Shaolin. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

TH (6/12), 7pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 CreatureScape

A multi-sensory experience where art moves, music breathes, and mystery walks among us. Step beyond the veil, and enjoy a night that Asheville won’t forget.

FR (6/13), 5pm, The Mule/Devil's Foot Brewing, 131 Sweeton Creek Rd

The Asheville Magic Experience

See the worlds best magicians performing inches away. Each show has a feature and headliner, performing a 70 min show.

FR (6/13), 6pm, Crow & Quill, 106 N Lexington Ave

Foreign Film Fridays

Every Friday visitors can enjoy a cozy movie night in the gallery featuring some amazing foreign films curated by film-buff Carlos Steward.

FR (6/13), 7pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But, the bargain is not what it seems.

FR (6/13), 7:30pm, SA (6/14), SU (6/15), 2:30pm, Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E Walnut St

Movie Night: The Two Popes

Enjoy an inspiring film experience as we screen The Two Popes, a powerful story of transformation, forgiveness, and finding unity beyond differences.

FR (6/13), 7pm, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way

Delighted Tobehere in Drag 101

An unforgettable, behind-the-scenes look into the world of drag with DRAG 101. Hosted by the fabulous Delighted Tobehere, this show pulls back the curtain and reveals all of drag’s best-kept secrets.

FR (6/13), 7:30pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 South Washington St, Hendersonville

The Merry Wives of Windsor

When the overzealous John Falstaff attempts

to woo two wealthy wives for financial gain, the clever women join forces to outsmart him with a series of hilarious pranks.

FR (6/13), SA (6/14), SU (6/15), 7:30pm, Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre, 92 Gay St

Parkway Playhouse

Presents: The Emperor's New Clothes Parkway Playhouse, the oldest continually operating Summer theater in North Carolina, presents a take on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic The Emperor’s New Clothes.

SA (6/14), 11am, Madison County Library, 1335 N Main St, Marshall

Rage @ The Stage: A Frenzied Evening of Improv Comedy

Hosted and curated by local improv team, Middle Rage, this show is all about showcasing some of our fave improv teams in the region.

SA (6/14), 7pm, NC Stage Co., 15 Stage Ln

Reel Obscura Mondays

A free weekly movie night that will be serving up a curated mix of cult classics, hidden indie gems and unforgettable films.

MO (6/16), 7pm, Eda's Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS

Shamanic Journey Circle

You're welcome to bring a drum or any portable instrument and a crystal to charge or clear.

WE (6/11), 6:30pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave

IBN Biz Lunch: Brevard/Pisgah Forest

The meeting will consist of introductions by every guest, a discussion of future networking opportunities in the area, a roundtable business needs and solutions segment and more.

TH (6/12), noon, Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom, 91 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest Baby Shower for All Expecting Parents

We hope that you will join us and other expecting parents for food, fun, games, prizes, and tons of community resources.

TH (6/12), 4pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Life Depends on Rivers

This event spotlights

WNC’s revival — and calling on state and national leaders to protect our rivers and make sure our community is prepared for future storms.

TH (6/12), 5pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St

Pink Beds Hemlock Hike w/Mills River

Partnership

This 3.2-mile loop is mostly flat, with a few creek crossings and gentle inclines. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the forest without a strenuous hike.

FR (6/13), 1pm, Pink Beds Trail, US 276 Pisgah Forest

Montford Motor Studio

Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or a curious beginner, this program will provide a collaborative environment to build a small mechanical motor limited only by imagination.

FR (6/13), 6pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Swannanoa Valley Museum Valley History Explorer Hike #4

A historic tour of the Montreat College Athletic Campus, the former site on In-the-Oaks.

SA (6/14), 9am, Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, 223 West State St, Black Mountain

West Side Stories: West Asheville of the ‘50s and ‘60s

Discover the hidden histories of buildings along the 700 block of Haywood Road, from the Pure Oil Service Station, now home to Universal Joint to Grace Baptist Church. See p25

SA (6/14), 11am, Universal Joint, 784

Haywood Rd

Forest Bathing

This experience weaves together mindfulness, breathwork, forest bathing and embodied nature connection, providing a unique way to explore the wonders of the great outdoors.

SA (6/14), 10am, NC Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way

Reimagined: Create Upcycled Clothing

Bring your own garments that you want to upcycle into a beautiful piece of art to wear. There'll be an indigo bath and you can learn

about botanical dyeing as you try it out.

SA (6/14), 10am, Luna Gallery, 102 artful way Water Aerobics

This water-based workout is perfect for anyone looking to stay active and socialize in a supportive and enjoyable environment.

SA (6/14), 10am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Queer Community Circle

A place to make some friends, find support in other Queer people, and rant about the world with the emotional support of our 12 housepanthers.

SA (6/14), 6pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Coloring w/Cats

Take 50 minutes for yourself and cuddle with the panthers, meet other cat-lovers, and color a beautiful picture of a cat from our adult coloring books.

SU (6/15), 2pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd,

Being & Becoming: Releasing Notions of Progression

Through meditation, dharma talk and inquiry, Paul Linn will introduce some of the wholesome qualities that naturally arise and can be cultivated in our lives.

MO (6/16), 6:30pm, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

IBN Biz Lunch: Arden

The meeting will consist of introductions, a discussion of future networking opportunities in the area, a roundtable business needs and solutions segment and more.

TU (6/17), noon, Wild Wing Cafe South, 65 Long Shoals Rd, Arden Get Your Dye On Bring two items and transform them into vibrant, one-of-a-kind creations. We provide the dyes, supplies, and expert guidance to help you master the art of tie-dye.

TU (6/17), 2pm, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St

Strolling Strikers: Relaxed Pace Soccer for Older Adults

This isn't a typical high-octane match, it's a chance to stay active, boost well-being, and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a supportive atmosphere.

WE (6/18), 11am, Memorial Stadium, 32 Buchanan Pl

Southside Cyber Wednesday

Dive into the exciting world of e-sports and gaming with friends and neighbors with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles ready for action.

WE (6/18), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St Tarot Community Circle

Each week will cover different topics. Please bring a deck based on the system of the Rider Waite Smith tarot.

WE (6/18), 6pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

GAMES & CLUBS

Music Bingo w/DJ Spence

Featuring 3 different themes of upbeat, family friendly music. It’s first come first serve, no tickets required and free to play.

WE (6/11), 5:30pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St Books & Brews Trivia w/Lit Local

A night of nostalgia, great drinks, and literary fun. This month’s Books & Brews Trivia Night is: What If? A speculative fiction trivia.

TH (6/12), 6pm, Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

Weekly Sunday Scrabble!

Weekly scrabble play where you’ll be paired with players of your skill level. All scrabble gear provided.

SU (6/15), 1:30pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Level 256 Weekly

Pinball Tournament

This is a weekly group knockout pinball tournament. Food will be provided to players. All ages and skill levels are welcome.

SU (6/15), 5:30pm, Level 256 Classic Arcade Bar, 79 Coxe Ave

Ping Pong Tournament

Come by and shoot your shot against some of the best ping pong players in town. Free to enter and $50 bar tab to the winner.

MO (6/16), 6pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave

Bingo!

Weekly bingo raises funds to place service dogs with people affected by Helene. Hosted by Paws and Effect, a Black Mountain-based service dog organization.

TU (6/17), 6pm, Wild Wing Cafe South, 65 Long Shoals Rd, Arden

KID-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS

Family Story Time

A fun and interactive story time designed for children ages 18 months to 3 years.

WE (6/11, 18), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Preschool Storytime

Miss Jennifer will lead children ages 3 to 6 in engaging activities such as stories, songs, and other hands-on activities designed for children.

WE (6/11), 2pm, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview

Black Cat Tales: Story Time w/Cats

A special after-school workshop where families with children age 7 and under can relax and foster a love of reading while also socializing with the cats in the lounge.

WE (6/11, 18), TH (6/12, 19), FR (6/13), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Baby Storytime

A lively language enrichment story time designed for children ages 4 to 18 months. TH (6/12, 19), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Coloring w/Cats: Kiddie Edition

An artistic session with coloring books and markers for children ages 13 and under to relax by coloring as they pet cats to reduce stress and anxiety.

SA (6/14), 1pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd MO (6/16), 7:30pm, A-B Tech, 340 Victoria Rd

LOCAL MARKETS

55th Annual Brevard AAUW Book Sale

The Brevard Branch of the AAUW is sponsoring its 55th Annual Book Sale, the largest and best book sale in North Carolina.

WE (6/11), 10am, Brevard College Boshamer Gym, 695 Kings Creek Loop, Brevard Leicester Farmers Market

A community-led farmers market local produce, cheese, meats, honey, strawberries, asparagus, rhubarb, ramps, a variety of plants and more. Every Wednesday through October.

WE (6/11, 18), 3pm, Leicester Community Center, 2979 New Leicester Hwy RAD Farmers Market

Asheville’s only yearround weekly market, featuring 30+ vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafted items, beverages, grab-and-go meals, and more. EBT and SNAP accepted.

WE (6/11, 18), 3pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 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. Open year-round.

WE (6/11, 18), 3pm, 60 Lake Shore Dr Weaverville

Biltmore Park Farmers Market

This market features fresh seasonal produce, delicious homemade pastries, premium meats and seafood, beautiful vibrant flowers, and more.

TH (6/12), 3pm, Biltmore Park Town Square, Town Square Blvd., Asheville East Asheville Tailgate Market

Featuring over 25 vendors selling meat, seafood, produce, flowers, bread, eggs, baked goods, fruit, herbs, sweet treats, tamales, and more. Every Friday through Nov. 21.

FR (6/13), 3pm, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Rd

Mills River Farm Market

This market offers local food, live music, kids' activities, cooking demos, and a welcoming community. Browse fresh produce and pasture-raised meats to homemade breads, fresh flowers, and artisan goods.

SA (6/14), 8am, Mills River Elementary School, 94 Schoolhouse Rd, Mills River

North Asheville Tailgate Market

Browse from over 70 vendors that will be offering sustainably produced produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, honey, plants, prepared foods, crafts and more.

SA (6/14), 8am, UNC Asheville Lot P28

Asheville City Market

A producer-only market featuring local food products, including fresh produce, meat, cheese, bread, pastries, and other artisan products. Every Saturday through December.

SA (6/14), 9am, 52 N Market St

Black Mountain Tailgate Market

A seasonal community event featuring organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, local raised meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs and locally handcrafted items. Every Saturday through Nov. 22.

SA (6/14), 9am, 130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Swannanoa Farmers Market

This market will feature farm-fresh produce, local honey, eggs, baked goods, and delicious eats. You'll also find handmade jewelry, artwork, fiber crafts, wooden utensils, yard art, apothecary essentials, and more.

SA (6/14), 9am, 216 Whitson Ave, 216 Whitson Ave, Swannanoa

Mars Hill Farmers & Artisans Market

A producer-only tailgate market located on the campus of Mars Hill University on College Street. Offering fresh local produce, herbs, cheeses, meats, eggs, baked goods, honey, body care and more. Every Saturday through Oct. 26.

SA (6/14), 10am, College Street, College St, Mars Hill

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. Open daily, 8am.

570 Brevard Rd

Honky Tonk Flea

Discover unique antique treasures, vintage gems, and handmade goods while listening to the best honky tonk vinyls.

SU (6/15), 11am, Eda's Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

Junk-O-Rama Vintage Market

Browse vintage clothing vendors, local crafters, antiques and more.

SU (6/15), noon, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd

Magical Market

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

SU (6/15), noon, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Meadow Market

This vibrant outdoor market features a curated selection of local makers and artisans. Browse a delightful array of one-of-a-kind textiles, handcrafted jewelry, beautiful pottery, and more.

SU (6/15), 1pm, The Meadow at Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200 West Asheville Tailgate Market

This market features an array of goods including fruits, vegetables, baked goods, bread, eggs, cheese, plants, specialty items, locally made art and crafts and more. Every Tuesday through November.

TU (6/17), 3:30pm, 718 Haywood Rd

Enka-Candler Farmer's Market

A grand selection of local foods and crafts, everything from produce to pickles, baked goods

to body care, and even educational resources. Every Thursday through October 31.

TH (6/19), 3:30pm, A-B

Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Grape Fizz Purple Party w/Asheville Prince Review

This event features live music from Asheville Prince Review in the beer garden to celebrate the New Belgium's Grape Fizz Ale.

FR (6/13), 5:30pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St

Concerts on the Creek: TLQ+2

Free concert series for the community with TLQ+2 providing a wide-gathering repertoire gathered from the years of music. There will be food trucks available on most nights.

FR (6/13), 7:00pm, Bridge Park Gazebo, 76 Railroad Ave, Sylva Southside Block Party

Featruing an evening of community vibes, infectious beats by DJ Audio, special food

options and friendly games of cornhole, giant Jenga or other fun yard games.

FR (6/13), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St SummerWeen

Visit Lifted Veil Tattoo, Boutique Royale and Curiouser and Curiouser for a day of fun and support for local artists and businesses.

FR (6/13), noon, 117 Sweeten Creek Rd

Concerts in the Park

Bring your friends and family to dance, play games, and enjoy eats and treats from Biltmore Park restaurants.

Returning to Concerts in the Park is Mission

Accomplished, an Asheville-based classic rock cover band.

FR (6/13), 6:30pm, Biltmore Park Town Square, Town Square Blvd.

Asheville Movies in the Park: Black Panther

A free family-friendly movie night on a massive outdoor screen for all community members. This week's movie feature is Black Panther.

FR (6/13), 8:15pm, Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza

Bennie Lake Building Dedication & Open House

Celebrate the legacy, the life and impact of Coach Bennie Lee Lake, with a day featuring youth voices, food, music, and a self-guided Legacy Trail showcasing the journey from humble beginnings to a thriving center for education, leadership, and peace.

SA (6/14), 11am, My Daddy Taught Me That, 3 Hunt Hill Place

Hell Chere: Music & Arts Festival

A two-day music and arts festival presented by Blue Mountain Mischief that is dedicated to bringing the best metal, hardcore, rap and other artists.

FR (6/13), 6pm, SA (6/14), 3pm, Sly Grog Lounge, 271 Haywood St

No Clowns, No

KingsThis family friendly event uses humor to highlight the critical issues in our current government. There will be entertainment, speakers and carnival games for both adults and children.

SA (6/14), 1:30pm, Pack Square Park

Studio A 12 Year Anniversary Celebration

Visit Studio A and celebrate their twelve year anniversary with special giveaways, art discounts, refreshments and small bites. Studio A is a creative space where you will find Ukrainian psysanky eggs, mixed media artwork, notecards, gifts, jewelry and more.

SA (6/14), 3pm, Studio A, 344 Depot St, Ste 100

Weaverville's Music on Main 2025

A one-night, open-air concert event featuring three incredible bands, local food trucks, craft beer, and family activities.

SA (6/14), 4pm, Main Street Weaverville, 1 South Main St, Weaverville

Dad’s Day DJ Dance Party

Bring the family over for a sunny afternoon with music by DJ Aoli. There’ll be yard games, drink specials and a food trucks. Dress in your best “Dad” garb and enter our costume contest.

SU (6/15), 5pm, The Mule/Devil's Foot Brewing, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd

Art in Bloom 2025

This multifaceted event, celebrating nature and art, combines two gallery exhibits, live floral arrangements, and a local garden tour featuring working artists.

TH (6/19), 7pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 West State St, Black Mountain

Visuals Solstice Celebration w/Sleep Number

Enjoy a free wine tasting and live performances by Sleep Number, Cerulean Moth, Superflower and DJ Sets between performances by Forestfloor.

TH (6/19), 7pm, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING

Low-Cost Community Neuter Clinic

Please schedule and pay for your appointment prior to showing up.

Appointments and additional services can be scheduled at avl.mx/dlq.

TH (6/12), 9am, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Southside Volunteer Day

Volunteer with RiverLink to maintain the native ecosystem and rain

gardens in the Erskine Community.

TH (6/12), 10am, Herb Watts Park, 64 Erskine St

Lower Kitsuma: Repairing Helene Damaged Trail

Join the crew to help reinstate the drains, repair tread and even do some rockwork to get water flowing off of our favorite trail.

SA (6/14), 10am, Old Fort Picnic Area, 2415 State Rd 1400, Old Fort Dupont Forest Bike Wash

This family-friendly event is a membership drive for Friends of DuPont Forest. Every membership directly supports the Forest and is crucial to its maintenance.

SA (6/14), 1pm, Trailside Brewing Co, 873 Lennox Park Dr, Hendersonville

Mercy in the Mountains

A blues and soul celebration benefiting Habitat for Humanity and Leaf Global Arts. It will feature music from Mama, Melissa McKinney, Mad Dog Blues Band, and Eric Freeman.

WE (6/18), 7pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

Glow up

BY ASHLEY ENGLISH

Hey there, Xpress readers! I’m Ashley English, an author and educator based here in Western North Carolina, where I’m living and learning alongside my husband, Glenn English, and our two sons. Whether it’s keeping a hive of bees or tending to a flock of chickens, baking a savory pie, hosting an apple-themed potluck, making yogurt or kombucha or creating a healing salve or herbal cough syrup, if it involves simple, straightforward, time-honored wisdom with a nod to the seasons, I’m keen on it — and may very well have written a book or taught a class on the subject!

In collaboration with Mountain Xpress, I am delighted to announce a new ongoing series, “Homemade Living.” Each month I’ll offer a column with an eye toward creating a do-it-yourself home apothecary of wellness remedies, alternating with another focused on preserving the foods and flavors of the season. (Read the first installment on preserving WNC's strawberry harvest at avl.mx/eup.)

SEASONAL SKIN RENEWAL

An avowed lover of cold weather, even I will readily admit that winter eventually takes its toll — on our temperaments (less exposure to vitamin D can negatively affect our moods), on our health (increased time indoors leads to greater likelihood of spreading sicknesses) and most definitely on our body’s exteriors, battered as they

are by months of low humidity and dry winds.

Now that summer is approaching, both on the calendar and in the seen and felt environment here in WNC, it’s time to shake off any remnants of cold-weather skin damage. While trips to the spa are lovely, they’re also prohibitively expensive for many. If you find yourself in the latter camp, you can turn to your kitchen for therapeutic ingredients and home-based, DIY skin care treatments.

Rich in potassium, iodine and vitamin K, seaweeds are nutritional powerhouses. Equally nourishing both externally and internally, they offer deep hydration to dry skin, improving skin tone and elasticity while also aiding in circulatory and muscular health. My recipe for Relaxing Seaweed Soak is both restorative and soothing, and it can be bottled to gift to a friend or loved one in need of a watery release.

Turmeric, that bright yellow-orange spice responsible for giving your chicken tikka masala its vibrant hue, is just as welcome on your skin as it is on your dinner plate. The Turmeric Face Mask recipe below helps bid adieu to any last vestiges of winter skin. Packed with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, turmeric also gently exfoliates, as do almonds (those with especially dry or delicate skin should use ground oats). The lactic acids in yogurt aid in sloughing off dead skin cells, while honey heals wounds.

These two home remedies come together quickly and easily for little cost. Turn to them anytime you feel the need to give some extra TLC to your body’s largest organ, your skin.

SKIN

Dried seaweed, sea salt and other inexpensive, easy-to-find ingredients can be combined to make a nourishing soak to reinvigorate dry skin.

Photo by Glenn English

Relaxing seaweed soak

Makes: Two applications

You will need:

• 1/4 cup bladderwrack*

• 3/4 cup Epsom salt

• 3/4 cup coarse sea salt

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• 1 tablespoon dried lavender petals

*Use cut and sifted bladderwrack or, if purchased in whole pieces, tear into smaller pieces. If you can’t find bladderwrack, substitute with another brown seaweed. French Broad Food Co-Op offers a great selection of seaweeds in its bulk area.

To prepare:

Place all of the ingredients in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Stir to blend. Store in a lidded container until bath time. When ready for use, place half of the mixture into a muslin cloth pouch or a large, fine-mesh infuser. Turn on the bath and add the pouch/ infuser as the tub fills. Soak as long as feels comfortable, ideally at least 20 minutes, adding warm water as necessary. Towel off, apply lotion or oil to entire body, then drink at least 8 ounces of water or a cup of herbal tea to replace fluids lost during the bath.

Turmeric face mask

Makes: One application

You will need:

• 2 tablespoons whole fat yogurt

• 1 tablespoon almond meal/flour or ground-up rolled oats

• 2 teaspoons honey

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

To prepare:

Place all of the ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk until thoroughly combined and a paste is formed. If you have longer hair, pull it back with an elastic or hair clip. You can also secure hair with a headband or even under a shower cap. Starting with clean skin, use your fingers to apply the mask to your face, taking care to avoid the eye area. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes. Rinse the mask off with warm (not hot) water, until all traces of the paste are gone. There shouldn’t be any discoloration to your skin from the turmeric, but in the event you notice any, apply a small amount of neutral oil (such as sweet almond, grapeseed, sunflower, safflower, coconut or argan oils) to the area and wipe clean with a tissue. Moisturize your skin as usual. X

DEEP:

ARTS & CULTURE

Vacation in a glass

Appalachia meets the tropics in local tiki drinks

BY AUDREY AND BILL KOPP

audreybill@liquornerds.com

Picture this: You order a cocktail, and when it arrives, the alluring elixir of fruit juices, syrups and several alcoholic beverages is served in a fancy glass festooned with decorative trimmings. You hear music featuring marimbas and bird calls. The space is done up in vivid ornamentation, evoking the feel of what one imagines the South Pacific might be like.

You’ve found yourself in a tiki bar.

A POP-CULTURAL HISTORY

Tiki is that most American of pop culture phenomena: Springing from manufactured origins, it became a lighthearted sensation embodying the phrase “a vacation in a glass.”

Nearly a century ago, two American entrepreneurs were key in creating and popularizing all things tiki. Donn Beach (born Ernest Gantt) opened his Don the Beachcomber bar in Hollywood in 1933. Decorating the bar with assorted faux and real Polynesian bric-a-brac, he served complex, fancifully named, rumbased cocktails such as the Zombie, Beach’s own creation.

Inspired in part by Beach’s success, in 1937 Victor Bergeron redecorated his Oakland, Calif., restaurant/bar, Hinky Dinks, into a Polynesian pop sensation called Trader Vic’s. Signature cocktails included the Fog Cutter and a communal libation, the Scorpion Bowl. (Both Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic have been credited with inventing one of the most popular tiki drinks of all time, the Mai Tai.) At its height, the Trader Vic’s chain maintained more than two dozen locations.

Today Don the Beachcomber is long gone, and only three Trader Vics remain open in the U.S. The nearest Trader Vic’s to Asheville is in Atlanta; that location will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026. (Much of this information and more can be found in Martin Cate’s 2016 book Smuggler's Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum, and the Cult of Tiki, an excellent resource full of history, lore and, of course, recipes.)

Fortunately, tiki bars are once again on the rise. “There are new ones opening all the time,” says Chris Frosaker, co-owner of the Tiki Easy Bar, a unique feature on the Asheville cocktail scene. Frosaker’s background is in beer — he's the co-founder of Hi-Wire Brewing, which shares a building with Tiki Easy — so his immersion in cocktail culture is somewhat outside the box. He was inspired by a 2016 visit to the S.O.S. Tiki Bar in metro Atlanta in 2016. “I had so much fun; I just loved the vibe,” he says.

DEEP DIVE

Fascinated by the tiki concept, Frosaker dove deeper. Experimenting at home with the often complicated recipes — a dozen ingredients is not at all unusual — he amassed an impressive rum collection.

In 2022, Hi-Wire was leasing its Hilliard Avenue location from a metal artist who owned the building. When he decided to retire and sell, Frosaker and his partners jumped at the chance to buy the building.

At first, they didn’t know what to do with the former owner's workshop — a large, windowless space in the building’s interior. Inspired by his tiki adventures, Frosaker suggested they open a themed cocktail bar.

Continue the tiki voyage

Concocting tiki drinks need not always be complicated. Tiki Easy co-owner Chris Frosaker offers advice to home bartenders who want to experiment with the style. “Don’t get overwhelmed,” he says. In line with his suggestion of beginning with a simple tiki drink that looks interesting, he offers this straightforward and delightfully tasty classic drink recipe that makes use of easily sourced ingredients.

CHI CHI

• 3.5 ounces pineapple juice (e.g. Dole)

• 1 ounce coconut cream (Coco Lopez is available in grocery stores)

• 1 ounce vodka

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and pour the entire mixture into a Collins glass. Top off with ice if needed. Garnish with a cherry speared to a pineapple wedge. X

E v E rything in M od E ration

“They thought I was crazy,” he recalls with a laugh. “But I convinced them to come along for the ride.”

Tiki Easy opened in 2023. “We come from the beer side,” Frosaker emphasizes. “So this was a new beast for us.”

Learning as they went, they quickly discovered that only the freshest juices suited their drinks. “We only do fresh citrus here,” he says. “And that really elevates the quality of our drinks.”

Tiki Easy staff make their own orgeat (an almond syrup), coconut cream and six other syrups.

The Tiki Easy space seats 100 people, with tables, wraparound booths and a private room that can be booked for groups. The bar’s aesthetic leans into the theme with tropical plants and multicolored lighting. Doubling down on the fun and multisensory experience that is tiki, the bar features simulated tropical storms. Every 22 minutes, winds blow through the space, the sound of heavy rain fills the room and thunderclaps reverberate.

One characteristic common to many tiki drinks is the use of several liquors, usually — but not always — rum. Owing to the vagaries of North

Carolina’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (ABCC), Frosaker says, Tiki Easy’s selection of over 100 rums is largely “driven by what we can get.” But he and his staff carefully choose liquors that impart specific flavor and sensory notes to the bar’s signature drinks.

About 10 rums form the basis of several Tiki Easy signature cocktails. “Blending different rums creates new flavor profiles,” Frosaker says. “It’s a way to make drinks unique.”

Another way to add a singular spin to cocktails is through garnishes. Some Tiki Easy drinks feature an edible orchid atop the glass. “We go through about 500 of those each week,” Frosaker says. Other accoutrements, such as tiny umbrellas, are sourced from local grocery stores and Asian markets.

The finished cocktails are as visually dazzling as they are flavorful. “Tiki is about escapism,” Frosaker reiterates.

“I think we all need to get out of our day-to-day lives every once in a while and come into a dark room with no windows, not realize what time it is and enjoy a vacation in a glass.” The Tiki Easy Bar is at 197 Hilliard Ave. For more information, visit avl.mx/cus. X

Tiki playlist

• Martin Denny’s Quiet Village (1959)

• Esquivel’s Strings Aflame (1959)

• Combustible Edison’s I, Swinger (1994)

• Todd Rundgren’s With a Twist (1997)

Concurrent with the tiki cocktail craze, a music subgenre known as exotica enjoyed popularity from the mid 1950s until around the time the Beatles hit America. Every bit as culturally “authentic” as tiki culture — which is to say, not at all — exotica remains a fun and kitschy accompaniment to a fine rum-based cocktail or punch. Exotica transports the listener to the fabled and nonexistent shores of Tikiland. Our suggested soundtrack for your next tiki adventure might include:

• Vermouth’s RetroFuture Pop Exotica (2012) X

LIQUID HOLIDAY: Inspired by the tiki craze of the mid-1900s, The Tiki Easy Bar mixes its cocktails from a collection of more than 100 types of rum. Pictured, from left, are Geo Vanderbeck and Dakota Case at Tiki Easy. Photo by Bill Kopp

Lager heads

BY CHRISTOPHER ARBOR

yearinbeerasheville@gmail.com

On Jan. 1, Christopher Arbor and his friends pledged to visit one Asheville brewery each week for all of 2025 in the order that they opened, then share the experience with Mountain Xpress readers. To read about their recent trip to Whistle Hop Brewing, visit avl.mx/euo.

With cold beers in our hands and warm smiles on our faces, we got into arguments at New Belgium Brewing.

Now, for context, we’re all living in a world primed for division. I’m not even talking politically. I’m talking everything.

Remember the dress that broke the internet a decade ago? It was either white and gold or blue and black, and people got really mad at one another for seeing it differently.

How about the question: Is a hot dog a sandwich? Does pineapple belong on pizza? Should cargo shorts even exist? Don’t even get me started on opinions about cats and dogs. Some of you fine folks may even be yelling at the page as you read these questions.

You know what else some people have strong opinions about? Everything else! But this is a series about beer, so let’s talk about New Belgium Brewing and its history.

Caution: You may feel strong feelings.

The brewery was started way back in 1991 in Fort Collins, Colo., by social worker Kim Jordan and her husband, Jeff Lebesch, in their basement. As near as I can tell, they’re people who care about people, as well as the environment and, you know, beer.

In 2012, New Belgium became 100% employee owned, which seems supercool. And by early 2020, the company had grown to be the fourth-largest American-owned brewery.

Want to take a guess what the top three were? (I’ll give you a hint: Budweiser, Michelob and Coors are all owned by foreign companies.) The largest American-owned breweries were — and still are — Yuengling, Boston Beer Co. (i.e. Samuel Adams) and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

In late 2019, New Belgium employees voted to sell their company to Little Lion World Beverages, an Australian company that is owned by Kirin, a Japanese company. The transaction was completed in 2020.

Some members of our Year in Beer crew had very strong opinions about that. Why were we even going to a Japanese-owned brewery, they asked, when there are so many locally owned

Cold beer and heated debate at New Belgium Brewing

YEAR BINEER

BACK AND FORTH: Opinions were liberally shared during the Year in Beer crew's latest outing. Pictured are writer Christopher Arbor, left, and Alan West getting photobombed by Alex Dontchos and Ben Meade. Photo courtesy of Arbor

breweries that would appreciate our patronage?

Some members of our crew had very different opinions. What effect, they asked, does New Belgium have on our community? Those members argued that New Belgium pays its employees well, attracts beer lovers to the area (who then support the broad-

er economy and other breweries) and provides quality beer and a stellar communal space.

The other side countered by pointing out that Kirin’s CEO makes millions of dollars a year and, as far as we know, has never been to Asheville; whereas, the owners of our local breweries are often found behind the bars of their establishments. They know, love and support their community.

The opposition rebutted the argument by saying that New Belgium does support the community. It’s home to the River Arts District Farmers Market on Wednesdays; it was the finish line for the Asheville Marathon and HalfMarathon races (which three of our members participated in) and, on that particular evening, DJ Spencer Belkot was running a game of Musical Bingo for a large crowd of happy people.

It was a polite point/counterpoint conversation for most of the evening, and I loved every minute of it.

Cheers to healthy debate over good beer between great friends.

Come join us on another adventure, and let me know how you feel about tipping. We gather at 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays. You can email me at yearinbeerasheville@gmail.com or just show up.

• June 11: Eluvium Brewing In Weaverville

• June 18: Hillman Beer on Sweeten Creek Road X

NEW IN FOOD

CHILL CEREAL BAR RETURNS

Asheville resident Elijah Cox launched his first business, pop-up cereal eatery Chill Cereal Bar, in 2019 at the age of 13 with his mom, Patricia Waters. The next year, the COVID-19 pandemic put his dream on pause. This month, as Cox graduates from high school, he and his mom are relaunching the Chill pop-up and releasing the Chill Cereal Bar Coloring Book to help fund the endeavor. Filled with games, mazes and messages promoting creativity and entrepreneurship, the book is available for preorder. Cost is $10 per copy ($5 for a digital copy). “He’s proud of this project, and it really captures the heart behind what we’re building together,” says Waters. To learn more or to book Chill Cereal Bar for an event, contact Waters and Cox at chillcerealbar@gmail.com. To preorder the coloring book, visit avl.mx/eul. X

by Gina Smith | gsmith@mountainx.com

Pasta Class

Chef Luis Martinez of Taqueria Rosita and Tequio Foods will join natural winemakers Botanist & Barrel and Cúrate chef James Jefferies 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 12, to host a Pinche Pintxo Party celebrating the release of Cúrate’s newest Basque-style cider. The event, to be held at the La Bodega by Cúrate, 32 S. Lexington Ave., will feature pintxos — small Spanish-style snacks — incorporating Martinez’s Oaxacan flavors, plus tastings of the new cider and wines from Botanist & Barrel’s DeFi label. Tickets are $125 and are available at avl.mx/eun. X

Chef Tyler Slade will lead a hands-on pasta-making class 6-9 p.m. Monday, June 16, at Bargello, 7 Patton Ave. Participants will learn how to make pasta shapes, including ravioli, agnolotti and tortellini, as well as how to flavor, color and stuff the dough. The workshop includes a family-style pasta dinner with optional wine pairings. Tickets are $79 plus tax and gratuity. Visit avl.mx/euk to reserve a spot. X

Earth Fare Artwork

A custom painting by Asheville artist Greg Carr — aka Tall Greg — commemorating the 50th anniversary of local grocery chain Earth Fare now hangs in Earth Fare’s flagship location at 66 Westgate Parkway. The piece serves not only as a “generous gift to the community but also a huge help to me personally as a local [River Arts District] artist who lost all my belongings in the flood. It was a deeply meaningful collaboration,” Carr shared with Xpress in an email. Prints will be available soon at Earth Fare Westgate and at avl.mx/euu. For updates, follow Tall Greg on Instagram at avl.mx/eum. X

Res t aurant openings and reo p e n ings

• Fitz and the Wolfe — A new downtown nightclub, live music venue, cocktail bar and food concept, Fitz and the Wolfe, launched with a grand opening party on May 31 in the large corner space at 1 Battery Park Ave. The location was previously home to Isa’s Bistro, which opened in 2012 and closed in September due to Tropical Storm Helene. A project of local hospitality developers FIRC Group, Fitz and the Wolfe features two floors with three rooms — the Showroom, Palm Room and Den — each with its own distinct atmosphere and décor, according to a press release. The food menu offers sandwiches, smash burgers, hot dogs and other items. Learn more at avl.mx/euq.

• Zella’s Deli — After losing its building on U.S. 70 in Swannanoa to flooding from Tropical Storm Helene, Zella’s Deli has announced it will reopen this summer at 611 Tunnel Road. A large outdoor space and more parking are part of the plan for the new restaurant, according to the social media announcement. The new location will be the third for Zella’s Deli since it launched at 48 College St. downtown in 2022. Its Swannanoa location had been open just six months when it was destroyed by Helene. For updates, follow Zella’s Deli at avl.mx/eur. X

Image of painting by Tall Greg

Photo courtesy of Katie Button Restaurants

Photo courtesy of Bargello

Top chefs

BY GINA SMITH

For the Asheville-based Katie Button Restaurants (KBR), 2025 is shaping up to be a year of major transformations.

In February, the group announced that its popular downtown restaurant, La Bodega by Cúrate, would not reopen after Tropical Storm Helene. Instead, the South Lexington Avenue space morphed into a venue, hosting private events and allowing KBR to offer its own special gatherings, like the upcoming Thursday, June 12, Pinche Pintxo Party with chef Luis Martinez and Botanist Barrel.

And in May, KBR’s flagship Spanish tapas restaurant, Cúrate, winner of the 2022 James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Hospitality, heralded a fresh cohort of leaders. Longtime Cúrate staff members Amy White and James Jefferies, have ascended into larger roles, and celebrated chef Ángel Palacios of Barcelona, Spain, stepped into the executive chef position.

White, who has been with Cúrate for 11 years, took the role of executive chef de cuisine this spring after previously leading the restaurant’s prep kitchen. Jefferies assumed the title of executive sous chef and events lead after initially joining KBR as a line cook eight years ago; his most recent position was as La Bodega's chef de cuisine.

Palacios brings to Asheville a resume twinkling with Michelin stars. Like Cúrate's co-founders, chef Button and Felix Meana, he worked at the legendary El Bulli in Meana’s native Roses, Spain. Palacios also served as executive chef and general manager at La Broche in Madrid and Miami, where he was named one of Food Wine magazine’s 10 best new chefs in 2003. Then came a stint at the three-starred Mart í n Berasategui restaurant and, most recently, he led the kitchen at Llamber in Barcelona.

“The concept [at Llamber] is very similar to Cúrate, a kind of tapas bar restaurant,” says Palacios, who moved to Asheville from Barcelona in April with his wife, two children and two cats. “We had cuisine from the north of Spain, Asturias and Catalonia.”

Since launching Cúrate in 2011, Button and Meana have seen their roles expand, and as Button has become less hands-on in the kitchen, they’ve prioritized mentorship opportunities for their staff.

Cúrate restaurant ups its game with

a trio of new leaders

DREAM TEAM: Spanish chef Ángel Palacios, center, joins veteran Cúrate staff members James Jefferies, left, and Amy White, right, in assuming top leadership roles with the James Beard Award-winning downtown restaurant. Photo by Fraiche Photography, courtesy of Cúrate

In addition to Palacios’ expertise as a chef, Button and Meana were drawn to his experience as a professor at Basque Culinary Center.

“For the past years, we've been sending people from our restaurant team over to Spain to try to learn the culture and things, but truly, we have always really needed that firm tie,” Button says.

“Felix and I are still overseeing the business and the quality — none of that has changed. We’re just bringing on more support.”

While KBR will continue to send key staff members to Spain, “It was time to bring the source here, to get back to the roots,” says Meana.

“That way, [Palacios] can share all this knowledge, these techniques and culture with everybody — not only the leaders, but also the hourly employee, line cook, front of house,

the office team, Katie, myself. We can all learn from him.”

Though C ú rate’s menu won’t change significantly, Button and Meana are welcoming small adjustments and innovations Palacios is already making, including the introduction of bomba de pulpa (spicy octopus and potato croquettes), a rotating Spanish paella lunch special and a new technique for cooking the Spanish tortilla.

Palacios is also working on new kitchen systems to improve efficiency and has started forming new partnerships, says Meana, including an exciting one with local farmer Evan Chender of The Culinary Gardener.

“I feel like I'm home here,” says Palacios, speaking first of Asheville, then of the Cúrate kitchen. “I need only to bring my knowledge and share it.”

by Edwin Arnaudin | earnaudin@mountainx.com

Unto These Hills Bullington Gardens’ Fairy Trail

For three-quarters of a century, Unto These Hills has captivated audiences under the stars at Mountainside Theatre with the complex and rich history of the Cherokee people. The production recounts the story of these Indigenous people from first contact with Europeans through the horrific Trail of Tears and up to the eventual building of the Qualla Boundary. It’s a rare opportunity to learn about a pivotal chapter in U.S. history from the perspective of those who lived it. The production has earned widespread acclaim over the years for

its authentic costuming, dramatic storytelling, powerful music and special effects.

The 75th anniversary season opened May 31 featuring a cast and crew of enrolled members from eight federally recognized tribes — including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the Cherokee Nation. Performances are held nightly, Monday-Saturday, through Aug. 23 at Mountainside Theatre in Cherokee. Tickets are $25-$60; children ages 5 and younger get in free.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/euj  X

Tropical Storm Helene is no match for the magic of fairies — or the power of community collaboration. Though last September’s natural disaster left Bullington Gardens’ popular Fairy Trail in ruins, local garden clubs, Hendersonville’s First Congregational Church and Family Tree Care came together with financial support from the Community Foundation of Henderson County to clear the wreckage and rebuild, forming a new and improved experience for visitors of all ages.

The Fairy Trail reopened June 2 and will remain accessible through Sunday, Aug. 31. New features

include a story nook called Flora Knolls, with fairy-themed story times two mornings a week. The interactive Story Walk reading experience is also back. Though Fairy Acres, an area where children can build their own fairy houses, is not yet restored, the staff expects the Fairy Village to be completed by the end of June.

“We welcome everyone who needs a little lighthearted whimsy in their lives,” says Annie Higgins, director of Bullington Gardens, in a press release. “Come let your imagination soar.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/euh. X

Photo from Unto These Hills by The Creative Raven

Photo of Bullington Gardens Fairy Trail courtesy of Bullington Gardens

John Rhea

For his debut novel, South Carolina native and retired criminal defense attorney John Rhea turned to subject matter well within the realm of his professional life — though he fortunately didn’t have to draw from exact personal experience. Lifer centers on Jack Merritt, a South Carolina lawyer serving a life sentence for murder. Weaving flashbacks with his struggles to survive inside a maximum-security prison, the book serves as a cautionary tale about the perilous nature of daily life.

On Wednesday, June 18, at 6 p.m., the local author will be at Malaprop’s Bookstore/Café to discuss his work of fiction, in conversation with fellow writer Tom Rash. The event

is free to attend, but reservations are required.

To learn more and secure your seat, visit avl.mx/eug. X

West Asheville history walking tour

West Asheville has changed significantly over the past 10-15 years, and its evolution since the 1950s and ’60s is even more drastic. On Saturday, June 14, Buncombe County Public Libraries offers a unique look back at this part of town through a history walking tour hosted by Robert M. Randolph II, who grew up there during those post-World War II years.

The free event will begin at 11 a.m. at Universal Joint, 784

Haywood Road, and end at Grace Baptist Church, 718 Haywood Road, focusing on the histories of buildings and businesses along the 700 block. In addition, library staff will share resources for researching historic buildings and provide information on how local residents can contribute to the library’s archives and more thoroughly document the history of West Asheville.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/eui  X

Photo of John Rhea courtesy of the author

Photo of Isis Theater, 1950, by CH Harris, courtesy of Buncombe County Special Collections

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11

12 BONES SMOKEBOUSE & BREWING

Trivia w/King Trivia, 7pm

ASHEVILLE YARDS

98.1 The River Presents: Beabadoobee (indie, alt-pop), 7pm

CAMDEN'S COFFEE

HOUSE

Open Mic Night, 7pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Songwriters Open Mic w/ Miriam & Drayton, 7pm

ELUVIUM BREWERY

The Candleers (country), 5pm

EULOGY

Blue Roses w/The Maggie Valley Band & Garden Apartments (rock, indie, Americana), 8pm

FITZ AND THE WOLFE

Swing Asheville (swing, jazz), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S

Search & Destroy Punk Karaoke, 9pm

FOOTHILLS GRANGE Trivia Nights, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER

BREWERY

Bluegrass Jam Wednesdays, 6:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD

PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

LEVELLER BREWING

CO.

Folk Club Open Mic, 6:30pm

ONE STOP AT

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Curious Strange (folk), 10pm

PULP

Dad Jokes Standup

Comedy Picture Show, 7:30pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Julianna Jade & The Wild (alt-pop, indie), 6pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Zorn, Wide Open Wound & Corpse Dust (metal, punk-rock, industrial), 8:45pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Ginger Root (synth-pop, alt-disco, soul), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Open Mic Night, 6pm

URBAN ORCHARD

Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK

MOUNTAIN

• Irish Session, 5pm

• Melissa McKinney's Bad

Ass Blues Jam, 7:30pm

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

12 BONES SMOKEBOUSE & BREWING

Jackson Grimm (folk-pop, Appalachian), 5:30pm

CROW & QUILL

Sawtooth Troubadours (rock, country), 8pm

EDA RHYNE DISTILLERY & TASTING ROOM

The Gilded Palace of Metamodern Sounds, 6pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Bless Your Heart Trivia w/Harmon, 7pm EULOGY

Ever After w/And I

Become Death & Hellir (post-rock, metal, jazz), 8pm

FITZ AND THE WOLFE

Riyen Roots (blues, soul), 6pm

FLEETWOOD'S Silver Doors, The Simplicity & The Cheeks (psych-rock, shoegaze), 9pm

FLOOD GALLERY

True Home Open Mic, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER

BREWERY

Jerry's Dead Thursdays (Grateful Dead & JGB tribute), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Preston Cate & the Oufit (experimental, groove), 9pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Bill’s Garage Solo (psych, folk-rock), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Sam Morrow (R&B, rock, country), 6:30pm

SHAKEY'S Karaoke w/Franco Nino, 9pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Frances Eliza, Sayryn & The Blinds (rock, folk, soul), 7pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Django Jazz Jam, 7pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Auto-Tune Karaoke w/ Who Gave This B*tch A Mic, 10pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

The Coke Dares, Material Objects, i26connector & Tanner York Band (indierock, pop, Southern-rock), 8:45pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Josh Blake's Jukebox

Presents: An Evening of Latin Grooves & Lotus Feet & DJ Mtn Vibez, 7pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

All Female Singer-Songwriter Night, 7pm

INDIE-ROCK POWERHOUSE: On Friday, June 13, popular indie-rock band Modest Mouse returns to town to play Asheville Yards Amphitheater at 7 p.m. Modest Mouse got its start in the Pacific Northwest and is known for its atmospheric, late’90s sound. Photo courtesy of Modest Mouse

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Hearts Gone South (country), 6pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Mannequin Pussy w/ Deux Visages (punk, indie-rock), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Disclaimer Comedy Presents: Asheville's Dirty Dozen, 8pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Trivia Night, 6:30pm

TWIN WILLOWS

The Candleers (country), 6pm

WICKED WEED BREWING

Mike Hollon (roots, blues, Americana), 5pm

FRIDAY, JUNE 13

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Stop Light Observations w/Wim Tapley & The Cannons (blues, pop, indie-rock), 9pm

ASHEVILLE YARDS

Modest Mouse (alt-rock, rock), 7pm

CORK & KEG

The Old Chevrolette Set (country), 8pm

CROW & QUILL

Sparrow & Her Wingmen (jazz, swing), 8pm

EULOGY

Sugar Bomb w/Chris Bullock Trio & E'lon

JD Trio (jazz, hip-hop, electronic), 8pm

FITZ AND THE WOLFE JBOT (funk, soul), 6pm

GINGER'S REVENGE

CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

Frances Eliza (jazz, indiefolk, pop), 6pm

HEMINGWAY'S CUBA

Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Chris McGinnis & Mamaw's Angels (Americana, rock), 8:30pm

Acoustic Duo - Country to Folk & Blues

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Anthony Wayne (alt-indie), 6pm

• Chamomile & Whiskey (Americana, blues, Celtic), 10pm

ONE WORLD BREWING Stoneface Mountain (bluegrass), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Ska City (Ska), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Dogs in a Pile (funk, jazz, rock'n'roll), 6pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Free Flow Band (funk), 9pm

SIERRA NEVADA

BREWING CO.

Hustle Souls (retro-soul, funk, Americana), 7pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Mike Barnes Quartet (Jeff Beck tribute), 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Halogi, Weight Shift & Six Year Hex (power-metal, rock'roll, sludge), 9pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: Free State of Mind (Southern-rock), 5:30pm

• Brotherhood (Doobie Brothers tribute), 8pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

We have Ignition (surfrock), 7pm

THE ODD

All Blissed Out, Tiny TVs & Ton of a B*tch (punk, pop), 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Iration w/Bikini Trill (reggae, pop), 7pm

THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN

Mr Jimmy (blues), 5pm

THIRD ROOM

Crawdad Sniper & Optik Soundthird (edm, dubstep, bass), 10pm

TURGA BREWING

The Candleers (country), 5pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Work It: 90s/00s R&B & Hip-Hop Party, 9pm

ASHEVILLE YARDS

Dispatch w/John Butler (indie, roots), 5:30pm

BATTERY PARK BOOK

EXCHANGE

Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 5:30pm

CORK & KEG

Soul Blue Rocks (soul, blues, R&B), 8pm

EULOGY

Hot To Go: The Chappell Roan Party, 8pm

FITZ AND THE WOLFE Vaden Landers (country), 6pm

FLEETWOOD'S

David J, Chandra Shukla & Renata Youngblood (post-punk, goth, experimental), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER

BREWERY

ModelFace Comedy

Presents: Aparna Nancherla (early show), 7pm

FUNKATORIUM

Funk DJ Series w/ Grimmjoi, 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Nobody’s Darling String Band, 4pm

• Cary Fridley & Down South (country, honkytonk, Appalachian), 8:30pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

• Gill Knott (folk, pop, Americana), 6pm

• Echo Pilot w/Seismic Sutra (alt-rock), 10pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING

Dan Davis Organ Trio (jazz, funk, Latin), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

• Watkins (indie-folk, alt-rock), 4pm

• Adama & Les Amis Dance Party, 9pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Phuncle Sam (Grateful Dead tribute), 6pm

SIERRA NEVADA

BREWING CO.

Daniel Shearin (acoustic), 2pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Daddy Deem's R&B Night, 10pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

The Orrs, Nathanael Jordan & Walkhome (rock, indie-pop, alternative), 9pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Company Swing (jazz, swing, blues), 7pm THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

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

THE ODD Party Foul Drag, 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Sold Out: Bingo Loco, 10pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK

MOUNTAIN

Kat Williams (soul, blues, jazz), 7:30pm

WICKED WEED WEST

Even the Losers (Tom Petty tribute), 5:30pm

SUNDAY, JUNE 15

ASHEVILLE YARDS WALLOWS (alt-rock), 7pm

CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE

ASHEVILLE

Dad Jokes: Father's Day Comedy Showcase, 6:30pm

CLEAR BRANCH ALCHEMY CHURCH OF FERMENTATION Open Mic, 2pm

FLEETWOOD'S Quintron, Aaron Dilloway, Yellowbellies & DJ Salami Baby (experimental, noise-rock, punk), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa, 3pm

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM Sunday Jazz Jam, 2:30pm

HEMINGWAY'S CUBA Sunset Sunday's w/Para Gozar (Appalachian, Latin), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD

PUB

• Bluegrass Brunch w/ The Bluegrass Brunch Boys, 12pm

• Traditional Irish Music Session, 3:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

• Suns of Stars Sunday Residency (bluegrass), 2pm

• One Love Sundays (reggae), 7pm

PISGAH BREWING CO. Pisgah Sunday Jam, 6:30pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO.

Julio & the Saltines (rock, blues, country), 2pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

• Most Open Mic, 6:30pm

• Open Mic w/Mike Andersen, 6:30pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS Pulsr, Gash, Dish & Aunt Ant (alt-indie, shoegaze, rock), 8:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE Dirty Logic (yacht-rock), 8pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

• Detective Blind (indierock), 12pm

• Lyric (funk, R&B), 2pm

THE ODD

Destroy All Music w/ Jimbo, 1pm

VOWL Freshen Up Comedy Open Mic, 7pm

MONDAY, JUNE 16

27 CLUB

27 Club Karaoke, 10pm

AYURPRANA LISTENING ROOM Tobacco City w/Glyders (cosmic-country, psychrock), 7pm

FLEETWOOD'S Best Ever Karaoke, 9pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Trivia Night w/Two Bald Guys & A Mic, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING Open Mic Downtown, 6:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Mashup Mondays w/ JLloyd, 8pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

The Hot Seat Comedy, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE

The Antlers & Okkervil River (post-rock, indie), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Mr. Jimmy & Friends (Blues), 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

The Aquabats w/The Koffin Kats, Mike V & the Rats (rock, punk), 7pm

THIRD ROOM

Grateful Mondays w/ Clouds of Delusion (Grateful Dead tribute), 7pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Local Live Presents: Tom Keever (multi-genre), 7pm

TUESDAY, JUNE 17

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Eda's Bluegrass Jam w/ Alex Bazemore, 6pm

EULOGY

DRAIN w/Scowl & Koyo (surf-thrash, punk), 7pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

The Grateful Family Band Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute), 6pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Open Jam, 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Edging, Bushfire, Ton of a Bitch & On the Block (punk, rock'n'roll), 8:30pm LOOKOUT BREWING CO.

Team Trivia, 6:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE

The Arcadian Wild w/ Dallas Ugly (indie, folk, pop), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

The Lads AVL (rock, blues), 6pm

THIRD ROOM

Open Decks, 8pm

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18

12 BONES

SMOKEBOUSE & BREWING

Trivia w/King Trivia, 7pm

CAMDEN'S COFFEE

HOUSE

Open Mic Night, 7pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Songwriters Open Mic w/Miriam & Drayton, 7pm

ELUVIUM BREWERY

The Candleers (country), 5pm

EULOGY

Rivers of Nihil, Holy Fawn, Inter Arma & Glacial Tomb (death-metal, sludge, psych), 7pm

FITZ AND THE WOLFE

Swing Asheville (swing, jazz), 8pm

FOOTHILLS GRANGE Trivia Nights, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Bluegrass Jam Wednesdays, 6:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Stephen Evans Duo (folk-rock), 6pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Leo Crafft, Dusty Buckets & 81 Drifters (folk, Americana, Appalachian), 8:30pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Rod Sphere (soul, rock, reggae), 6pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Well-Crafted Music Series: Datrian Johnson w/Duane Simpson, Tony Black, Mike Rhodes & Matt Smith (multigenre), 6pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Badfish (Sublime tribute), 7:30pm

THIRD ROOM

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Open Mic Night, 6pm

URBAN ORCHARD

Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Straight Ahead Wednesdays Presents: Andy Page w/A Nod To Wes Montgomery, 7:30pm

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

12 BONES

SMOKEBOUSE & BREWING

Frances Eliza (jazz, indiefolk, pop), 5:30pm

CROW & QUILL Lock, Stock & Teardrops (country), 8pm

EDA RHYNE

DISTILLERY & TASTING ROOM

The Gilded Palace of Metamodern Sounds, 6pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY Bless Your Heart Trivia w/Harmon, 7pm

FITZ AND THE WOLFE

Andrew Wakefield (bluegrass, folk, Americana), 6pm

FLEETWOOD'S

Mean Green, Crop, Pink

No Pink & Red Beard Wall (doom-metal, hardcore), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead Thursdays (Grateful Dead & JGB tribute), 6pm

GINGER’S REVEMGE

CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

Blue Ridge Pride Presents: Queer Open Mic, 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

NEW BELGIUM

BREWING CO.

It's Trivial w/Divine, 5:30pm

ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Third Thursdays w/ Jenni Hockenberry, Daniela Risouez, Christina Chandler, Rachel Waterhouse, Kim Butler & Marisa Blake, 9pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Healyside & Mookite (dnb, house, breakbeat), 8:30pm

REVOLVE

Untethered w/Okapi (avant-garde, experimental), 7pm

SHAKEY'S

• Comedy Showcase in The Office, 8pm

• Karaoke w/Franco Nino, 9pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Auto-Tune Karaoke w/ Who Gave This B*tch A Mic, 10pm

STATIC AGE

RECORDS

Powder Horns, Slow Funeral & Honeyknife (rock'n'roll, Americana), 8:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Bones Owens (Southern-rock, garage), 9:30pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Alma Russ (folk, country, bluegrass), 6pm

THE ODD

Bold Burlesque Takeover: Juneteenth, 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Sold Out: Fred Armisen, 7pm

THIRD ROOM

Jimmi Lang's Almost Dead (The Doors tribute), 9pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Trivia Night, 6:30pm

TWIN WILLOWS

The Candleers (country), 6pm

WICKED WEED

BREWING

Pete Townsend (acoustic), 5pm

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Your definition of home is due for revamping, deepening and expansion. Your sense of where you truly belong is ripe to be adjusted and perhaps even revolutionized. A half-conscious desire you have not previously been ready to fully acknowledge is ready for you to explore. Can you handle these subtly shocking opportunities? Do you have any glimmerings about how to open yourself to the revelations that life would love to offer you about your roots, your foundations and your prime resources? Here are your words of power: "source" and "soul."

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Do you have any frustrations about how you express yourself or create close connections? Are there problems in your ability to be heard and appreciated? Do you wish you could be more persuasive and influential? If so, your luck is changing. In the coming months, you will have extraordinary powers to innovate, expand and deepen the ways you communicate. Even if you are already fairly pleased with the flow of information and energy between you and those you care for, surprising upgrades could be in the works. To launch this new phase of fostering links, affinities and collaborations, devise fun experiments that encourage you to reach out and be reached.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I’ve always had the impression that honeybees are restless wanderers, randomly hopping from flower to flower as they gradually accumulate nectar. But I recently discovered that they only meander until they find a single good fount of nourishment, whereupon they sup deeply and make a beeline back to the hive. I am advocating their approach to you in the coming weeks. Engage in exploratory missions, but don’t dawdle, and don’t sip small amounts from many different sites. Instead, be intent on finding a single source that provides the quality and quantity you want, then fulfill your quest and head back to your sanctuary.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Let’s talk about innovation. I suspect it will be your specialty in the coming weeks and months. One form that innovation takes is the generation of a new idea, approach or product. Another kind of innovation comes through updating something that already exists. A third may emerge from finding new relationships between two or more older ways of doing things — creative recombinations that redefine the nature of the blended elements. All these styles of innovation are now ripe for you to employ.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Leo psychotherapist Carl Jung was halfway through his life of 85 years when he experienced the ultimate midlife crisis. Besieged by feelings of failure and psychological disarray, he began to see visions and hear voices in his head. Determined to capitalize on the chaotic but fertile opportunity, he undertook an intense period of self-examination and self-healing. He wrote in journals that were eventually published as The Red Book: Liber Novus. He emerged healthy and whole from this trying time, far wiser about his nature and his mission in life. I invite you to initiate your own period of renewal in the coming months, Leo. Consider writing your personal book.

with flexibility and a resistance to breakage. I recommend a similar approach for you, Libra. Create balance, yes, but do so through integration rather than compromise. Like the artisans of old, don't choose between hardness and flexibility, but find ways to incorporate both. Call on your natural sense of harmony to blend opposites that complement each other.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpio journalist Martha Gelhorn (1908–1998) was an excellent war correspondent. During her six decades on the job, she reported on many of the world’s major conflicts. But she initially had a problem when trying to get into France to report on D-Day, June 6, 1945. Her application for press credentials was denied, along with all those of other women journalists. Surprise! Through subterfuge and daring, Gelhorn stowed away on a hospital ship and reached France in time to report on the climactic events. I counsel you to also use extraordinary measures to achieve your goals, Scorpio. Innovative circumspection and ethical trickery are allowed. Breaking the rules may be necessary and warranted.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): My spirit guides enjoy reminding me that breakthrough insights and innovations may initially emerge not as complete solutions but as partial answers to questions that need further exploration. I don’t always like it, but I listen anyway when they tell me that progress typically comes through incremental steps. The Sagittarian part of my nature wants total victory and comprehensive results NOW. It would rather not wait for the slow, gradual approach to unfold its gifts. So I empathize if you are a bit frustrated by the piecemeal process you are nursing. But I’m here to say that your patience will be well rewarded.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): "Sometimes I’ve got to pause and relax my focused striving because that’s the only way my unconscious mind can work its magic." My Capricorn friend Alicia says that about her creative process as a novelist. The solution to a knotty challenge may not come from redoubling her efforts but instead from making a strategic retreat into silence and emptiness. I invite you to consider a similar approach, Capricorn. Experiment with the hypothesis that significant breakthroughs will arrive when you aren't actively seeking them. Trust in the fertile void of not-knowing. Allow life’s meandering serendipity to reveal unexpected benefits.

TUE

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In the coming weeks, you will have chances to glide deeper than you have previously dared to go into experiences, relationships and opportunities that are meaningful to you. How much bold curiosity will you summon as you penetrate further than ever before into the heart of the gorgeous mysteries? How wild and unpredictable will you be as you explore territory that has been off-limits? Your words of power: "probe, dive down, decipher."

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): When traditional Japanese swordsmiths crafted a blade, they wrapped hard outer layers around a softer inner core. This strategy gave their handiwork a sharp cutting edge while also imbuing it

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Are you interested in graduating to the next level of love and intimacy? If so, the coming weeks will be a favorable time to intensify your efforts. Life will be on your side if you dare to get smarter about how to make your relationships work better than they ever have. To inspire your imagination and incite you to venture into the frontiers of togetherness, I offer you a vivacious quote from author Anais Nin. Say it to your favorite soul friend or simply use it as a motivational prayer. Nin wrote, "You are the fever in my blood, the tide that carries me to undiscovered shores. You are my alchemist, transmuting my fears into wild, gold-spun passion. With you, my body is a poem. You are the labyrinth where I lose and find myself, the unwritten book of ecstasies that only you can read."

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): What deep longing of yours is both fascinating and frustrating? To describe it further, it keeps pushing you to new frontiers yet always eludes complete satisfaction. It teaches you valuable life lessons but sometimes spoofs you and confuses you. Here’s the good news about this deep longing, Pisces: You now have the power to tap into its nourishing fuel in unprecedented ways. It is ready to give you riches it has never before provided. Here’s the “bad” news: You will have to raise your levels of self-knowledge to claim all of its blessings. (And of course, that’s not really bad!)

Lunch & Learn

KNOWLEDGE IS ON THE MENU THURSDAY, JULY 24TH FROM 11-1 PM

Reimagining retirement has never been easier. Come enjoy a presentation about Givens Gerber Park: a more affordable rental retirement option (55+) and enjoy lunch on us. Monthly fees are all-inclusive based on income. RSVP required

Community Action Opportunities is looking for reliable subcontractors (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, etc.) to perform residential weatherization services in FY 2025-26.

women, disabled and/or veteran owned businesses are encouraged to apply.

communityactionopportunities.org/contractors for details and application instructions.

Want to advertise in Marketplace? 828-251-1333 advertise@mountainx.com • mountainx.com/classifieds

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Remember the Russian proverb: “Doveryai, no proveryai,” trust but verify. When answering classified ads, always err on the side of caution. Especially beware of any party asking you to give them financial or identification information. The Mountain Xpress cannot be responsible for ensuring that each advertising client is legitimate. Please report scams to advertise@mountainx.com

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC TIMESHARE CANCELLATION EXPERTS

Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees canceled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 844-213-6711 (NC Press)

HOME

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Power to the People!

Serving Asheville and abroad. Troubleshooting, fixture hanging, can lights,

generators, car chargers, remodels, new construction, we do it all! Licensed and insured.  Free Estimates. 828-551-9843

HANDY MAN

HANDY MAN 40 years experience in the trades, with every skill/tool imaginable for all trades with the exception of HVAC. No job too small. $35 an hour. Carl (828) 5516000 electricblustudio@ gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT

SALES/ MARKETING

SENIOR SALES ASSOCIATE

Work for a local company that has covered the local

scene for 30 years! Mountain Xpress newspaper is a supportive, team-oriented environment serving local readers and businesses. We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic advertising sales representative. Ideal candidates are personable, organized, motivated, and can present our company with confidence. Necessary skills include clear and professional communications (via phone, email, and in-person meetings), detailed record-keeping, and self motivation. Experience dealing with varied and challenging situations is helpful. The position’s responsibilities include account development and lead generation (including cold-calling), account management, assisting clients with marketing and branding strategies. If you are a high energy, positive, cooperative person looking to join an independent media organization, please send a resume and cover letter (no walk-ins, please) explaining why you are a good fit for Mountain Xpress to: xpressjob@mountainx.com. This is a noncommissioned position. There is potential for a performance-based annual bonus. Salary: $22 per hour.

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GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind today at 1-855-869-7055 today! (NC Press) GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, free HD-DVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 in gift cards. Call today! 1-877920-7405. (NC Press) GOT AN UNWANTED CAR? Donate it to Patriotic Hearts. Fast free pick up. All 50 states. Patriotic Hearts’ programs help veterans

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PUBLIC AUCTION Surplus Government Vehicles and Equipment CITY OF ROCK HILL, SC Saturday, June 21st @10am 757 South Anderson Rd. Rock Hill, SC. Selling Kubota Mini Excavators, Skid Steers, Backhoe, Motor Grader,

UTV's, Garbage Trucks, SUV's, Mowers, Police Cars, Tahoes, more. www.

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mold growth in your home. We do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! For a free estimate, call 24/7: 1-833880-7762. (AAN CAN)

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Have zip code of service location ready when you call! (NC Press)

WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-2471189 . (NC Press)

WE BUY VINTAGE GUITARS Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-833-641-6624 (AAN CAN)

WE BUY VINTAGE GUITARS! Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch,

Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-833-641-6577 (NC Press)

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ACROSS

1 Manly

6 Extravagant type of fund-raiser

10 Among other things: Abbr.

13 ___ Pendragon, father of King Arthur

14 “Awesome!!!”

15 Drawer or door part

16 Nonviolent protest

A farewell to artist Chagall? Nonviolent protest

18 Theater boxes

19 Activity that turns an urban area into an obstacle course

20 Contain

22 “Is,” to Livy

23 Go with one’s

25 Go by car

27 Scientist played by David Bowie in 2006’s “The Prestige”

30 Endure

Display some humorous posters? Endure

33 GPS datum

35 Symbol in the Bluetooth logo, for one

36 ___ mode (fuel efficiency option in some cars)

37 Notre Dame team

Asset in a staring contest? Notre Dame team

41 Downside

42 Chops (off)

43 Sci-fi publisher whose logo is a rocky peak

44 Figure it out “Let’s see that dance move where you lie flat by a door!”?

Figure it out

47 Domain

51 Arrogant walk

52 For reference, it’s over 21,000 pages, in brief

54 Antagonist in “Calvin and Hobbes”

55 Go over again

58 Kids’ items that can come in packs of 8 and 168

61 Shed tears

62 City that had the final letter of its name removed in 1891, only to be restored in 1911

64 Disclaimer on a secondhand product

65 Mexican money

66 Slatted case

67 C.P.A.’s column header, perhaps

68 High light?

69 Missile chambers

1 Bert or Ernie

2 Relaxed

3 Many graphics in business presentations

4 Mild expletive

5 Wheel on a school bus-themed cake, perhaps

6 Get equipped (for)

7 The cruelest mo., per T.S. Eliot

8 Get ready to seal, as an envelope

9 Feel the pain 10 Feelings of animosity 11 First-rate 12 “Face the Nation” airer

15 Comic strip sound of impact

17 Hot chocolate holder

21 One of 16 over the course of the Ming dynasty 24 Seeks help from 26 Pi follower

28 “Ahab’s ___” (chapter in “Moby-Dick”)

29 One who might receive a letter at school 31 Pull (on)

32 Watt or newton 34