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After 28 years with the Asheville Police Department, Chief Mike Lamb is set to retire in December. As the city considers his replacement, Lamb spoke with Xpress about his career, as well as the challenges that the next chief will face, including gang-related activity and gun violence.

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EDITOR: Gina Smith

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Do the right thing with reparations

[Regarding “What Comes Next? Now on the Federal Government’s Radar, the Fate of Reparations Remains Uncertain,” Sept. 17, Xpress:]

Reparations are long overdue. It’s time to show some integrity and courage and do the right thing.

I agree that we need to avoid a legal battle with the (white supremacist) federal government, but there is much we can and must legally implement now with robust community support.

— Beth Heinberg Asheville

New arts center would boost local economy

[Regarding “City of Asheville Signs Deal to Work With Private Company to Pursue Building a New Performing Arts Center Downtown,” Aug. 29, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress website:]

In regard to a new performing arts center for Asheville, I believe that this center is long overdue for a community that is so highly regarded in the arts.

The Broadway shows, the music concerts, the plays or local organizational events that could utilize this venue would be a much-needed lift for our

Word of the week

swan song (n.) a farewell appearance or final act or pronouncement

Between this week’s cover story by reporter Brionna Dallara about APD Chief Mike Lamb’s retirement as well as fellow reporter Justin McGuire’s news piece about Weaverville Mayor Patrick Fitzsimmons’ decision to not seek reelection, swan song feels like an appropriate choice. X

economy and our artist community that has been ravaged by COVID and then Hurricane Helene.

The Peace Center in Greenville, S.C., has proved to be a highly successful investment and has clearly demonstrated the benefit to the local area with restaurants, hotels and shops all booming. We need a new performing arts center in Asheville to sustain our local businesses, create new jobs and provide a venue for the arts that will make us all proud.

—

Jayne Schnaars Asheville

Hospital and community stand stronger after Helene

One year ago, Hurricane Helene tore through Western North Carolina, leaving devastation in its wake. Asheville and our surrounding mountain communities were tested in ways many of

And our community showed up for us, too. Volunteers brought blankets, food, water. Strangers helped strangers. One powerful example was our partnership with Mercy Chefs, whose team set up in our parking lot, serving hot meals to families who had lost everything. As we mark this anniversary, we recognize the grief that remains. Lives were lost. Families are rebuilding. At Mission, we honor that hardship through action — by investing in stronger disaster preparedness and training new staff for future crises.

Hurricane Helene changed us. But it also proved what we’ve always known: When we care for one another, no storm can break us.

— Greg Lowe President and CEO of Mission Health

and Mission Hospital Asheville

In Helene’s wake, check impulse to point fingers

us had never experienced before. Roads crumbled, power grids failed, homes were lost, and our families faced uncertainty about what the next day would bring. Yet through all the hardship, our community’s resilience never wavered.

As president of Mission Health, I will never forget those first hours and days. While the storm raged outside, our halls became a lifeline. Patients who needed urgent care poured in. Families sought shelter in our lobby. Staff members who had lost homes or were cut off from loved ones showed up anyway, ready to serve.

Looking back now, a year later, I’m filled with pride in our Mission Hospital team and deep gratitude for the unity of this community. Western North Carolina did not break under Helene’s force. Instead, we leaned on one another, and together we rose.

From the first warning signs, our team prepared. With HCA Healthcare’s help, we stocked supplies, coordinated with emergency services and secured backup power. When the worst arrived, those plans saved lives. Our emergency department never closed. Even as roads washed out, helicopter crews and first responders helped ensure remote patients weren’t forgotten.

What stands out most are Mission’s people and their stories. Doctors and nurses worked tirelessly. Technicians and support staff ensured patients had meals, medications and comfort — even while their own families struggled. Hundreds of HCA colleagues showed up to support. After the storm, Mission housed 700 patients, and over 1,200 colleagues slept on-site, ready to help. That devotion is more than professionalism — it’s love for community.

At the one-year anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene, we should once again be reminded of how during that long month, we came together as a community. We gave each other free food, water runs, neighborhood dinners and volunteer work. We gave each other our time and cooperation. Were you concerned about the political party of the person clearing trees from your road? Or of the person who needed water and food? No. Many people’s lives were uprooted, and many lost their lives, but because of the community, lives were saved, and we got through it.

We all know this nation is divided, and we have an impulse to point fingers. Charlie Kirk’s death was not the left’s fault. The actions that took place were the shooter’s actions. This is not the time for pointing fingers at each other. We are divided because we were raised to be so; we grew up in a country that split us up and told us to fight. There are systematic problems, too many to name; the powers that be are the ones that need to change. Stop blaming your neighbor, or your classmates, or co-workers or anyone you see on social media. If you judge someone, you need to look in a mirror and ask: “What did that person do to you?” Start a conversation; do not point a weapon or use your voice as one.

I don’t think this is too much to ask of this town. We are a community, and every person in this community is valuable because we are all human. Each one of us makes up what Asheville is. Help your neighbor; help those who are in desperate need, and remember that you don’t know what someone has lost. We could all do better.

— Cai Moran Asheville X

CARTOON BY RANDY MOLTON

NEWS

Exit interview

BY BRIONNA DALLARA

To say Mike Lamb has experienced a lot in his 28 years with the Asheville Police Department (APD) would be putting it mildly.

Since first fastening his police badge in 1998 to serve his hometown, Lamb has climbed the ranks — from sergeant to lieutenant, then captain — and will retire as police chief in December, wrapping up his tenure in concert with APD’s 150year anniversary.

Over the years, Lamb has navigated major shifts in law enforcement — from swapping his pager and hand-held radio for more advanced technologies to handling public scrutiny amid calls to defund the police in 2020. What’s more are the personal traumas Lamb has coped with, including being the victim of a stabbing in 2018, which resulted in Lamb opening fire and injuring the perpetrator in self-defense.

More recently, Lamb issued a joint statement with Mayor Esther Manheimer, addressing the city’s gun violence. In July, four shootings occurred over the space of a week. Despite these incidents, Lamb notes that violent crimes in Asheville have gone down 36% compared with this time last summer. But those statistics, he emphasizes, don’t indicate the greater harm felt by the neighborhoods impacted.

“I can say all day long there’s a 36% reduction in violent crime. But [the neighborhoods] are not feeling that, because they’re seeing the gunfire, they’re hearing the gunfire, and that’s making them afraid to live in those communities,” Lamb says.

As Lamb prepares for his departure, there are currently 21 new cadets in Basic Law Enforcement Training with APD — a cadet class four times bigger than any the department has seen in the past six years, Lamb says.

In addition to the cadets, there are currently 165 sworn officers, 67 department vacancies and 15 officers in field training (sworn but not yet solo), says APD’s public relations manager Samantha Booth Lamb recently spoke with Xpress about his tenure with APD, his advice to the next chief and why he believes it would benefit the department and city to hire from within.

Editor’s note: This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

APD Chief Mike Lamb reflects on decades of service

Xpress: Going into the role of chief, what was your top focus, and do you feel that you addressed it?

Lamb: My top focus was enhancing community engagement and relationship building.

I was captain over the Community Engagement Division from 2020 up to 2023, and my primary responsibility was going around to different neighborhoods, stakeholders, organizations to hear their concerns and then work collaboratively to address those concerns. I feel like we’ve done a great job with those external relationships, but also internal relationships as well.

[For example] when the cadets have PT [physical training] every week, I work out with them in the mornings, so I get to know their first name, their family, if they have kids or not, if they have a dog or not, and have conversations with them on a regular basis. It helps them to feel like they’re part of the agency, so it makes them feel recognized.

I rarely had a conversation with the chief as I was coming up through the ranks. Especially on patrol. I

never really had a chance to come across the chief, and chiefs never really came out in the field. I’ve been very intentional about being out on the field. I went and rode a downtown bike patrol with our Community Engagement Division two weeks ago. They need that. They need to know that executive staff has an understanding of what they do.

APD has had four chiefs in the past six years. How does the lack of continuity contribute to the challenges a department faces when hiring new officers, including the next chief?

It definitely contributes, because whenever you have an unknown, people wonder what’s going to happen next and how it’s going to affect their jobs.

That’s why I think it’s really important for the next chief to be an internal selection because they already have those relationships. They already understand the expectations from the community.

And also being an Asheville native helps out because you really under-

stand the historical context behind where we’re at as a city.

And another thing in the mix is Helene recovery because we have so many different projects and initiatives going on to increase safety, increase infrastructure, to recover and repair. If you bring somebody from the outside who’s not familiar with those, it can be difficult.

What do you think the city can do to improve the continuity issue in leadership positions at APD?

As far as longevity goes, the average term duration of a chief nationally is three years. So I think having a series of internal hires is what helps with that continuity.

I don’t think it’s necessarily that you have to have a chief in place for 10 years because the last time we had that was Chief [Will] Annarino. He was internal. He was born and raised in Asheville, came up through the ranks. He was the chief that hired me.

Prior to your role as chief, tensions were high between activists and APD, especially during the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as issues concerning homelessness. How have these instances impacted the way you’ve thought about policing and your role as chief?

We had the reduction in staffing, which made it difficult. But thankfully, since I was assigned to the Community Engagement Division, we were still out talking with a lot of our stakeholders.

So we were talking with the different resident councils within the public housing authority. Also, one thing I did when I first became chief was bring back the regular meetings we had with our Black ministers through the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Asheville. We meet quarterly with our group of Black ministers to hear issues that they’re hearing from their congregation and then also ways that we can help them.

What advice would you offer the next chief about the city’s homelessness issues?

We’re very intentional about helping the CoC [Asheville-Buncombe Continuum of Care] to develop its plans, so that all these different entities are not operating in silos. Everybody’s working together to offer resources, to offer housing, to try to create more affordable housing, to look at the best place and the safest protocols for some type of emergency shelter, and at the same time, hear community concerns and be able to address those. The vast

HANGING UP THE BADGE: After 28 years with the Asheville Police Department, Chief Mike Lamb is set to retire in December. Photo by Brionna Dallara

majority of people who are unhoused have jobs; they just don’t have a place to stay that night. And most people aren’t creating criminal issues, and they’re not breaking the law.

There are a few that do, especially repeat offenders that steal stuff. Or they panhandle very aggressively. And so we work with the community to be able to identify those repeat offenders so that we can hold them accountable.

But for the rest of that community, we’re trying to keep them safe, especially since they have such high victimization rates.

How has police training changed over your career?

A lot of times when you ask a newly hired officer why they got in this job, they say, “Well, I want to serve the community, I want to make people safe.”

But then, over the years, they see dead body after dead body. They’re investigating shootings. They’re arresting the same people over and over again, and they see very traumatic things over that time frame.

But we really had a shift, especially over the last five-10 years, toward better police wellness. If you teach police officers how to cope positively with these things, it makes for a better, more resilient officer who doesn’t get compassion fatigue, because that’s a real thing.

We go through different training, like mindfulness training, breathing training. We have different therapies that are offered to us. For example, after my shooting, I went through prolonged exposure therapy, and then acceptance and commitment therapy, and I’m very transparent with our officers about that and about the process I went through, so it’s not stigmatized, and they know that the administration, the executive staff, is going to support that as well. Because we understand the importance of it.

“My

Oftentimes, whenever they go through those types of incidents, they already have those positive coping skills that make for a more well-rounded and compassionate and understanding officer, too.

Despite the overall decrease in violent crimes, gun and gang-related crimes are still prevalent in the community. What approach should the next chief take on these issues?

So there’s three main ways to look at this.

First and foremost, they need to be able to have those relationships within the community, to get information, but also work with the different outreach groups to do violence prevention, especially with young people. We regularly meet with the Buncombe County violence prevention group and groups like My Daddy Taught Me That, Umoja Health and Mothers of Murdered Offspring (MoMO).

The next thing is working with our Gun Violence Task Force. We meet on a regular basis to share information, and we look at who the repeat offenders are.

For example, if we look at the shootings that happened back in July, you know, four shootings in four days, and those were retaliatory shootings. A shooting happened, then the next night, somebody retaliated for that.

Those victims are not going to cooperate with us because they want to handle it on their own, and they want to do that retaliation on their own, and they see working with the Police Department as snitching. And that’s a street code they have they don’t want to go against. And so

— Mike Lamb, APD chief

it’s important a lot of times for us to see what are other ways that we can intervene.

A lot of this gun violence goes hand in hand with illegal drug sales. And so a lot of times we look at these different repeat offenders, and then we go after them for the drug possession, for the trafficking and seize guns using that as well.

Because while these groups don’t want to cooperate and they want to handle the issue on their own, the problem is the community gets caught in the crossfire.

And then lastly, it’s being able to put officers in the areas where gun violence is happening.

With everything going on nationally, did federal changes contribute to your retirement, or did you already have plans to retire this year?

No, I’ve had plans for this to be my retirement year for a long time. None

of the political reasons contribute to why I’m retiring. I hate that a lot of times, like when I first saw the retirement poster coming out, people would comment, “Oh, he’s retiring because of the Democrats or because there’s no support from City Council.”

I’ve gotten everything that I’ve asked for from City Council, and the vast majority of City Council has been very supportive of the Police Department, and so we have felt that support from Council, from County Commission and all across the city.

After you retire, you’ll be moving to Charleston. What are your plans once you’ve relocated to South Carolina?

Spending more time with my family and my dog.

I’ll probably do something in public safety or security, or, who knows, it could be something completely outside of that. It just depends on what door opens for me and where I feel led to after this.

I’ve had an amazing experience here with great people, great relationships, everybody working toward the same goal and trying to make the city safer and better. X

‘This town matters’

Mayor ends tenure with eyes on Weaverville’s future

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

jmcguire@mountainx.com

Weaverville Mayor Patrick Fitzsimmons doesn’t sound like a man who is leaving office soon.

During a recent conversation at a sidewalk café on Main Street, Fitzsimmons spoke with the energy and passion of someone still in the thick governance — engaged, hopeful and brimming with opinions about the future of the fast-growing north Buncombe County town. When discussing the Weaverville government’s plans, he still uses the word “we.”

But after more than four years as mayor, he is not seeking reelection. “It’s kind of a self-imposed term limit,” explains Fitzsimmons, who was first elected to Town Council in 2015. “I don’t think I should stick around forever. I hoped that some young dynamo would replace me. That’s probably not going to happen, but it was a good idea at the time.”

Town Council member Dee Lawrence, a retired tech sales manager and specialist, and former member Andrew Nagle, co-CEO at Conrad Industries, are competing in the November election to replace Fitzsimmons.

Fitzsimmons’ time in office has been marked by rapid growth — the town’s population has nearly doubled in recent years — as well as infrastructure investments, Tropical Storm Helene recovery and efforts to preserve the town’s character. There has been some controversy as well.

In a wide-ranging conversation with Xpress, the outgoing mayor reflected on his rise to the town’s top job, what

ON HIS WAY OUT: “Weaverville is the commercial center for north Buncombe County,” says Mayor Patrick Fitzsimmons, who is not seeking reelection after serving four years. “Everybody comes here — to shop, to go to dinner, to go to the library. This town matters to the whole region.”

McGuire

he’s proud of, the challenges he faced and what’s next for Weaverville and for him.

Fitzsimmons was appointed mayor in August 2021, following the resignation of then-Mayor Al Root. At the time, Fitzsimmons was already serving his second term on Town Council and preparing for his official (and unopposed) bid for mayor in that year’s fall election.

“I’ve always been a very engaged kind of person, and I was concerned about my home and then its future,”

he says of his decision to seek the town’s top elected position. “I figure if good people don’t run for office, bad people get to make the decisions.”

He moved to Weaverville in 2004, when he was hired to head the Western North Carolina chapter of the American Red Cross. He later served as executive director of Mountain BizWorks before retiring in 2021.

A military brat who was born in Kansas, Fitzsimmons has lived in many places but finds Weaverville to be special.

“It’s a town that has a lot of smalltown charm. Everyone really loves that about us. Every building is occupied with a business,” he says as he points to Main Street storefronts and busy sidewalks.

That downtown — known for its exclusively locally owned shops and restaurants — has been a central focus for Fitzsimmons and Council. A zoning change passed during his tenure ensures that new businesses in the downtown district can’t exceed 5,000 square feet or have a drive-thru.

“That’s how we are preserving the kinds of businesses we want,” he explains. “We’ve already got a preponderance of fast food joints. There’s no way to eat that many burgers.”

‘WATER NUT’

Fitzsimmons’ time in office has coincided with a significant period of growth. The 2020 census listed Weaverville’s population at 4,567, but estimates now place it closer to 8,000, he says, after several annexations. By 2027, with multiple developments and a hospital opening on the horizon, that number could push past 10,000. Through it all, Fitzsimmons has kept his eye on infrastructure

“I don’t know if I have a best accomplishment,” he says.

But one achievement he’s proud of, he continues, is the expansion of the town’s water plant. In October 2023, the state allocated $15 million for the project, which is estimated to cost $22 million overall. According to a press release, construction will take approximately five years to complete and will double Weaverville’s current 1.5 million-gallon-per-day capacity. The state funding, the same press release notes, “will assist in keeping town water rates lower than they would be had the town not received outside funding.” Additionally, Fitzsimmons says, Weaverville is building out a more resilient, interconnected water system — linking to Mars Hill, Marshall and Woodfin to avoid being dependent on any one source.

“We’re now looking at Asheville as well. ... If we can get all this accomplished, which we will, then we’ll have water systems that offer real resilience.”

By the end of 2027, the town will have the expanded water plant, expanded sewer capacity and a new electrical substation. “I became kind of a water nut,” he says with a laugh. “You can kind of predict what’s going to happen now. It’s already been a hot place [for population growth], and it’s about to get that much hotter.”

‘GAME CHANGER’

If there’s one major development likely to shape that future, Fitzsimmons says it’s the new AdventHealth hospital set to open off Weaver Boulevard, just west of Interstate 26. The nonprofit health system hopes to open the facility by 2027.

“It will be a real game changer for us,” the mayor contends.

Pending state decisions on the certificate of need, the hospital could exceed 200 beds and become a trauma center. “We’re anticipating 2,000 jobs for young medical professionals — the kind of people you want to move to your town,” he says.

But that influx raises big questions, he continues: “Where do we house them? How do we make sure we have the kinds of services they need? We want them to live here.”

Photo by Justin

“I figured if good people don’t run for office, bad people get to make the decisions.”

— Patrick Fitzsimmons, mayor

Affordable housing remains a persistent challenge. “People who work for the town can’t afford to live in town. We’re just an expensive place to live. And if you are a firefighter or a teacher ... you probably have a hard time being able to buy a house,” Fitzsimmons says.

He adds that the town has had some success encouraging workforce housing projects but notes, “Being mindful of that is a real issue.”

Another defining moment of Fitzsimmons’ tenure came in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene. The former regional Red Cross executive had direct disaster management experience and says Weaverville fared well.

“We recovered much quicker than other towns around us,” he says, “which means that everyone else is coming to Weaverville because we had water and businesses were open.”

The town saw flooding on Reems Creek and damage to its beloved historic waterwheel at Lake Louise Park. The wheel has been restored and was rededicated on Sept. 27 to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Helene.

Weaverville’s worst damage came from wind and downed trees, he says, and the power grid was heavily impacted.

Fitzsimmons credits Scottie Harris, who was serving in a dual role as fire chief and interim town manager when the storm hit, with strong leadership in the weeks and months after. Harris became the fulltime manager this summer and shed the fire chief post.

“The staff was great after Helene,” Fitzsimmons says. “They worked every day, all day.”

LACK OF TRANSPARENCY?

The events that led to Harris being hired as town manager represent perhaps the biggest controversy of Fitzsimmons’ tenure.

In June 2024, then-Town Manager Selena Coffey resigned. She told the Weaverville Tribune that she went on medical leave that month, in the midst of budget season, due to “hostile work conditions.” Fitzsimmons told Council members via personal email that he had concerns about Coffey’s behavior, including frequent sick days and fractures among town leadership staff, as reported by the Tribune. Fitzsimmons verified the details of the Tribune report in a previous interview with Xpress.

of Weaverville

Now, he simply says: “She chose to resign. We accepted her resignation.”

Some Weaverville residents have expressed concern to Xpress about the way Coffey’s resignation was handled by Fitzsimmons and Council. In particular, they say, elected officials did not communicate clearly what was going on behind the scenes to lead to the change.

But Fitzsimmons defended Council’s approach. “It was all over the newspaper,” he points out. “It was announced that the former manager had resigned, and we accepted her resignation. And Scottie was named the interim manager fairly quickly after that. I can’t believe that people didn’t know.”

Some townsfolk have also raised questions about transparency in the development of the town’s updated Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Critics say there was limited opportunity for input before a draft updating the 2019 plan was released in January and that communication around the process was inconsistent.

Officials plan to complete the update by the end of the year.

Fitzsimmons says there was no public input before the draft was released because it is an update to the existing plan. But there were plenty of chances for residents to weigh in on the draft itself after January, he points out. The process included two public hearings, along with online surveys and community meetings. “We got over 160 responses to our strategic plan survey,” he notes.

More generally, Fitzsimmons says, he has tried to run a government that encourages feedback.

“We take public comments at every public meeting. We always have public hearings on many important issues,” he says.

Weaverville’s demographics, he notes, make for an engaged citizenry.

“Our average age is quite a bit higher than towns around us — over 50. The percentage of people who have a college degree in Weaverville is 57%. Graduate degrees, 25%. This is a town that’s very well-educated with older folks. They all have opinions, and they love to share them.”

LOOKING BACK

Asked what residents opined about most, Fitzsimmons rattles off a familiar list: traffic on Main Street, people speeding, tax concerns. This year,

the town raised property taxes for the first time in nine years — and, unexpectedly, many supported it.

“I couldn’t believe people were coming to our meeting and saying, ‘Raise my taxes.’ That never happens. But ... we know we have infrastructure costs. People understood that.”

On the question of legacy, Fitzsimmons returns again to water, infrastructure and economic development — including a still-developing project to turn an old factory on Reems Creek Road into an arts and entertainment destination. “Not a done deal yet, but they’re working on it.”

As he prepares to hand over the gavel, Fitzsimmons believes the key will be long-term vision for the town he calls “the commercial center for north Buncombe County.”

Whether it’s growth, development or water infrastructure, Fitzsimmons made clear he’s proud of what’s been accomplished — and what lies ahead. He says he has no plans to run for office again but will stay active in the community.

“I’m ready for something else, but I’m not going anywhere. I look forward to working with the next Council members and giving them my opinions,” he says with a grin. X

And then there were four

Questions remain about new structure for Asheville's boards and commissions

BY BRIONNA DALLARA

bdallara@mountainx.com

Before Tropical Storm Helene, the City of Asheville had 13 active advisory boards and commissions. Members provided their expertise on a number of issues, helping shape city policies on the topics they advised.

Now, city staff is making the rounds to present a new Helene Recovery Boards structure. The initiative was approved by Asheville City Council at its Aug. 26 meeting and will reduce the 13 groups to four larger boards that will meet over the next two years. The four new boards will each align with a recovery priority: people and environment, housing, infrastructure and economy. No more than 11 members will serve on each board. Up to seven selected members will be drafted from the previous-

ly active 13 advisory boards and commissions. Council will name appointees at its Oct. 14 meeting.

Dawa Hitch, the city’s communications and public engagement director, presented the new structure to the Neighborhood Advisory Committee (NAC), which advises Council on planning and zoning decisions, at its Sept. 22 meeting — the first time the board has met since the storm and the last time it will meet until otherwise notified.

The city has been conducting similar meetings among the other 12 boards since the beginning of September.

During the Sept. 22 meeting, NAC members raised questions similar to those of other advisory board leaders who met with the city in July.

NAC member Charles Crowell inquired about the fate of the board's Festival of Neighborhoods, which brings together residents, local nonprofits and city services.

“The neighborhood festival was a physical manifestation of the work that goes on [in NAC],” Crowell said. ”How does that fall into this new structure? I mean, is someone else going to pick that up? Or are we just going to let that fall?”

Hitch said that while she doesn’t have an answer, the event is an example of a project that could be adjusted to fit into one of the four recovery boards.

Elyse Marder, NAC chair, suggested the Festival of Neighborhoods could potentially morph into something different that aligns with recovery goals, such as an emergency preparedness event or annual Helene remembrance.

A couple of members addressed ongoing uncertainties about NAC’s role amid the temporary restructuring.

The board is technically inactive but must still abide by city policies. While groups will not have regular meetings, Council and other city officials have the authority to call a special meeting at any time over the next two years for input from one or more of the 13 dormant groups.

Inactive members can still convene, but they must abide by the same quorum rules. As long as the boards do not discuss city business

with more than half of their members, which would constitute an official meeting, they can still call one another or informally gather to discuss matters.

“It’s not that anyone thinks it's not worthwhile to have advisory boards, let me be very clear about that. It is a valued resource,” Hitch said. “[But] with everything we have coming at us in a short amount of time, we have to make decisions to get the funding that we need to execute the projects that we want to do. Efficiency is really going to be important.” X

STAYING IN THE LOOP: Members of the Neighborhood Advisory Committee met Sept. 22 to discuss the group’s future amid a citywide restructuring of advisory boards and commissions. Photo by Brionna Dallara

Imagining Asheville in 2050

BY DANIELLE AROSTEGUI

danielle.arostegui@gmail.com

Imagine this: A storm is coming. It’s not predicted to cause any major outages, but you’ve been surprised before and you’re not keen to be surprised again.

You’re the emergency response manager for your neighborhood resilience hub, so it’s your responsibility to make sure everybody in the neighborhood has a safe place to go if things get bad. You check over the equipment to make sure everything’s in working order — solar panels, batteries, backup generator. Check, check, check.

You have a list of all the sick and elderly folks in the community and a gaggle of volunteers ready to run wellness checks after the storm, if needed. In fact, the hub is already starting to fill up with people ready to lend a hand.

That’s the basic idea behind resilience hubs — community institutions that support residents in the event of extreme weather. Resilience hubs come in many forms: a library that offers a cool refuge to neighbors during a heat wave; a local business with a backup generator that offers free charging and Wi-Fi during an outage; or a church that coordinates resource distribution after a natural disaster. It’s a new iteration of an old idea: coming together as a community to get through hard times.

In the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, hundreds of local organizations stepped up to provide emergency services. Few of them would have considered themselves resilience hubs before the storm began, yet they provided lifesaving services.

Designated resilience hubs are along the same idea, but with more forethought. They serve as vital sources of information and support for nearby residents — before, during and after extreme weather events.

According to the Urban Sustainability Directors Network, resilience hubs have “the potential to reduce burden on local emergency response teams, improve access to health improvement initiatives, foster greater community cohesion and increase the effectiveness of community-centered institutions and programs.”

That’s exactly what DeWayne Barton, founder and CEO of Hood Huggers International and the Peace Gardens & Market, had in mind when he came up with the idea for Blue Note Junction, his forthcoming health and business incubator and climate resilience hub.

As part of a series inspired by the book What If We Get It Right? by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson — which asks what the future might look like if we “get it right” on climate change — Xpress is

What If We Get It Right?

What would a more resilient city look like?

LOCAL ANCHOR: The proposed Blue Note Junction in West Asheville would also serve as a resiliency hub. Rendering courtesy of Legerton Architecture and Sitework Studios

spotlighting local experts who have ideas about what Asheville could look like in 2050 if we invest in climate solutions now.

Xpress spoke with Barton about building community resilience, plans for Blue Note Junction and what a more resilient Asheville might look like.

BUILDING RESILIENCE AMID ADVERSITY

For many of us, the devastation of Helene was both a wake-up call and a crash course in the importance of building community resilience. But for Barton, building community resilience began long before the storm.

Barton’s family has lived in West Asheville’s Burton Street Community for over 100 years. After watching the historically Black neighborhood get repeatedly consumed by highway expansions, Barton decided to do something about it.

For the last 20 years, Barton and co-founder Safi Martin have been working to restore peace, safety and resilience to the community. What started with picking up garbage led to the Peace Gardens & Market, an urban microfarm and art garden with a focus on community building and environmental stewardship.

“The Peace Garden was motivated because of environmental justice. It was designed to highlight and talk about those issues, not as a way to complain about it but to educate people and inspire them to do something about it,” Barton says.

From there, Barton has founded several other community-focused social enterprises around his vision of rebuilding the Black community in Appalachia, also known as Affrilachia.

That vision includes an explicit focus on climate resiliency and environmental stewardship, which Barton sees as key to rebuilding a thriving community.

Blue Note Junction is Barton’s latest project. The $15 million center at 54 Burton St. will have a cultural center, neighborhood spa, event venue, buy-local retail space and what Barton describes as a “community health and business incubator.” The project will include 32 affordable housing units.

It is also being designed as a resilience hub.

“It’s going to have geothermal and solar — all the fixings,” Barton says. “If something were to happen again like Helene, it’s going to be a place where people can retreat and feel supported. It’s designed to do that.”

Construction on Blue Note Junction is expected to begin in early 2026. Barton is raising funds and recruiting builders through YouthBuild — a workforce development program that provides education and training to young people facing barriers to employment.

COMMUNITY RESILIENCE IN EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD

Barton’s goal is not only to educate and support people in his community

but also to be an inspiration for other communities. Barton envisions community resilience hubs all over the city that work together to learn and share findings.

“Let’s say we have Blue Note Junctions across the city in all the neighborhoods: Shiloh, East End, Southside. We’ve got these resiliency hubs all doing their thing in their communities, but now all these people are united,” Barton says.

Barton applies an environmental justice lens when thinking about what the future of resilience in Asheville might look like. That means ensuring that no communities are left behind when it comes to rebuilding and adding resilience, especially those that have endured discrimination and underinvestment.

“We want this whole region to prosper, especially after Helene. Let’s restore the region with the same intensity across all communities,” Barton says.

For Barton, success will be minority communities that are self-sustaining. “You don’t have to leave your neighborhood to find certain products. Your neighborhood is as rich as Biltmore. You have beautiful surroundings, workforce development, business and people coming just to see the amazing work your community was able to do.”

“What’s great about Asheville,” Barton adds, “is that we have enough policies on the books to already support these goals, but what’s left is for us to execute the play collectively.” X

The scream

BY LAURA HACKETT A BLUE RIDGE PUBLIC RADIO REPORT

Exactly one year after Helene swamped the River Arts District with lethal floods, librarian Erin Parcels stood on the Craven Street Bridge with a red megaphone.

More than 70 people, old and young, joined her on the bridge’s skinny sidewalk, which overlooks the French Broad River, ready to let it all out.

“So the plan is that we’re going to scream and just let it rip,” Parcels said, beaming. “Let all of your feelings out, everybody. The trauma that we’ve had, the sadness, the joy of coming together.”

And scream they did. At all different octaves. For several, 10-secondlong rounds.

“You feel much lighter after,” said Samantha Kelgren, a first-time screamer. “And lightheaded.”

“I felt like a warrior,” added Erin Cotter

For Francie Genz, who wore a black T-shirt with the catchphrase

“In the Flerd, We all Fam,” the scream was a meaningful way to commemorate all that Asheville has been through in the last year.

“I could scream on a regular basis. But I think particularly today, we need to get it out and we need to feel it and we need to be together and know that we’re all feeling this,” she said. “A year ago, this bridge was underwater. Everything here was underwater.”

The Sept. 26 event was the inaugural meeting of the Primal Scream Club, a program from the West Asheville Library. The idea was

inspired by Scream Club Chicago, a group that beckons residents to scream every Sunday evening.

Parcels said she was “very happy” with the turnout in Asheville and

that now she hopes to make it a monthly event.

“If we can gather like this and just let out everything,” she said. “I don’t know why we wouldn't.” X

MAKE SOME NOISE: Librarian Erin Parcels and others scream at the French Broad River, one year after Tropical Storm Helene. Photo by Laura Hackett

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

 More info, page 26

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 (10/1), 10:15am, YWCA of Asheville, 185

S French Broad Ave

Tai Chi Fan

The Fan forms include movements from Yang, Chen and Sun styles of Tai Chi.

WE (10/1, 8), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Gentle Tai Chi for Balance

This class works on improving our balance through exercises that help you to think with your feet while strengthening your balance muscles.

WE (10/1, 8), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Serenity Sound Bath

A sound bath can cleanse your soul, restore your balance, surround you with peace and tranquility and stimulate healing.

WE (10/1), 6pm, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science

Mind Way

Nia Dance

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

healing arts.

TH (10/2, 9), TU (10/7), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave. Ste 109

Tai Chi for Beginners: Yang 10 & 24

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

TH (10/2), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Free Community Zumba Gold

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

FR (10/3), 10am, YWCA of Asheville, 185

S French Broad Ave

Intermediate Tai Chi Yang 24

This is the Tai Chi that most people envision when they think of Tai Chi.

FR (10/3), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Teen Fitness

Group workouts are fun and challenging, with modifications available for different levels to maximize workouts safely.

FR (10/3), 6pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

The Professor's Tai Chi

This class is a step up from the beginners

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

class and is a great class for those who have studied Yang 37.

SA (10/4), 8:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Yoga Hike

Enjoy a moderate one mile hike up to the summit of a scenic mountain top plus an hour of yoga for all levels.

SA (10/4), 9am, Bearwallow Mountain Trail, 4899 Bearwallow Mountain Rd, Hendersonville

Goat Yoga

Partake in a 45 minute all-levels yoga class, and then take all the time you want to snuggle and take selfies with your new goat friends.

SA (10/4), 9:30am, Candler

The Art of Yoga: Fall Series

Each yoga session includes a guided mindful looking session in one of the Museum’s exhibitions.

SA (10/4), 9:30am, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Yoga for Deep Peace Relax, unwind, and de-stress in this gentle yoga workshop designed for all skill levels.

SA (10/4), 10am, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way

Himalayan Sound Bath Meditation Immerse yourself in a somatic journey of sound and relaxation, where ancient wisdom meets modern well-being.

SA (10/4), 11am, Somatic Sounds, 157 S Lexington Ave B1

Yoga in the Park

All-level friendly yoga classes based on Hatha & Vinyasa traditions. Classes led by a rotation of certified yoga instructors.

SA (10/4), SU (10/5) , 11am, W Asheville Park, 198 Vermont Ave

DILLSBORO’S FINE ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR:

The town of Dillsboro in Jackson County hosts its 16th

Annual ColorFest on Saturday, Oct. 4, starting at 10 a.m. Artisans will display works in pottery, jewelry, photography, loom beading, handmade soaps, needlework and more. Local acts Alma Russ, Bird in Hard, Liz Petty and J. Creek Cloggers will also perform. Photo courtesy of the Town of Dillsboro

Kirtan w/Mantra Mandala

A sweet meditative practice of chanting mantras and divine names while experiencing the healing power of bhakti yoga, the yoga of love and devotion.

SA (10/4), 7:30pm, W Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd

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

SU (10/5), 10am, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview

Sunday Morning Meditation Group

The Sunday Morning Meditation Group will gather for a combination of silent sitting and walking meditation.

SU (10/5), 10am, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Yoga Taco Mosa

Come honor one another in yoga practice lead by Clare Desmelik. Bring your mat, a water bottle, and an open heart.

SU (10/5), 10am, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

Sunday Sound Bath Meditation

Imagine the soothing tones of Himalayan singing bowls washing over you, calming your mind, and rejuvenating your spirit.

SU (10/5), 11am, Somatic Sounds, 157 S Lexington Ave B1

Free Community

Athletic Conditioning Combining strength training, HIIT, plyometrics, kickboxing and step, this class offers a diverse, challenging training experience.

MO (10/6), 8am, YWCA of Asheville, 185 S French Broad Ave

Chen Tai Chi

It is considered a very high level of Tai Chi.

MO (10/6), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Metal Yoga w/ Quantum Mystic This class will take you on a journey through the abyss. Plan to sweat, stretch, growl and reset.

MO (10/6), 6:30pm, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave

Qigong for Health & Resilience

This class is an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to learn traditional Qigong exercises.

TU (10/7), 9am, 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 (10/7), 9:30am, Cooperative Coffee Shop, 210 Haywood Rd

Chair Aerobics

Workout

A well rounded workout that helps reduce the risk of falling, alleviates joint pain, increases flexibility and range of motion.

TU (10/7), noon, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

Baguazhang Level 1

It is considered a very advanced style of Kung Fu with its complex use of geometry and physics.

TU (10/7), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Community Yoga & Mindfulness

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

WE (10/8), 10:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Thursday Evening Sound Baths

These sessions focus on nervous system regula-

tion, energetic balance, and seasonal, lunar, and solar alignment.

TH (10/9), 7pm, Ritual Skin and Wellness, 802 Fairview Rd building 3000 Ste 11

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 (10/1), 6pm, Online Nicotine Anonymous People share their experience, strength and hope to stop using nicotine.

TH (10/2, 9), 4:30pm, Asheville 12-Step Recovery Club, 1 Kenilworth Knolls Unit 4

Mad Hatter’s Collective: Hearing Voices Network

A group collective that gathers to talk about

Eleanor Ashton

encounters with visual, tactile, sensational, or fringe experiences with life and the interaction of energy.

TH (10/2, 9), 6pm, 12 Baskets Cafe, 610 Haywood Rd

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.

TH (10/2), 6pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Marijuana Anonymous

Whether you’re exploring sobriety, new to recovery, or have been on this path for a while, you are welcome here.

TH (10/2, 9), 6:30pm, American Legion Post #2, 851 Haywood Rd

Atheist Meetup

This little Atheist group invites anyone who doesn’t believe in religions to come chat with like-minded people.

SU (10/5), 10am, Earth Fare, 66 Westgate Parkway

Staying Grounded in Shaky Times

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

MO (10/6), 2pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Parkinson’s Support Group

Monthly meeting for the Parkinson’s Support Group of Asheville. Relevant educational presentation and time to greet friends and meet new ones.

TU (10/7), 10am, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Rd

The Men’s Nest

Learn meaningful human connection to strengthen social health, cultivate compassion, and equip people with the power to give and receive authentic support.

TU (10/7), 5:15pm, SeekHealing, 50 S. French Broad Ave, Ste 138

WNC Prostate Support Group

This month’s speaker, Dr Carl Klutke, Mission Urology & Boston Scientific, specializes in ED & incontinence.

TU (10/7), 6:30pm, First Baptist Church of Asheville, 5 Oak St Reconnecting Through Hard Times

In this 1-hour virtual training you’ll gain an understanding of how hard times affect us all, and what to do or say for others when it matters most. Register at avl.mx/f0s.

TH (10/9), noon, Online Caregiver Support Group w/Stronger Together Wellness Stronger Together

Wellness empowers stroke survivors and their caregivers through shared experiences, fostering a vibrant community that inspires healing, resilience, and hope on the journey to recovery.

TH (10/9), 3pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

DANCE

Open-Level Adult Contemporary Dance (Ages 16+)

Rediscover your love of movement in this drop-in Adult Contemporary class. Blend modern, lyrical, and jazz elements in a supportive, body-positive environment.

WE (10/1, 8), 5:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Open-Level Adult Ballet Class (Ages 16+)

Whether you’re a first-timer or returning to the barre, this class offers physical and emotional benefits through timeless technique.

WE (10/1, 8), 6:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Country Line Dancing w/Kristey

Featuring beginner and advanced classes that’s open to everyone. This event is hosted by Kristey.

WE (10/1, 8), 6pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

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 (10/1, 8), 8pm, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

BMCA Dance: Kids in Motion 2

This class focuses on growing the foundations needed for many dance techniques, including contemporary, ballet, jazz, and lyrical.

TH (10/2, 9), 3:45pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

We Line Dance

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

TH (10/2, 9), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

BMCA Dance: Contemporary 3 (Ages 13 - 16)

This class fuses contemporary, modern, lyrical, and jazz styles for diverse dance knowledge. Designed

for experienced teens to refine artistry, technique, and performance.

TH (10/2, 9), 6:45pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Community Square Dance w/Live OldTime Band

A night of community social dance, music laughs and fun. The dances are all taught and are beginner and family friendly.

SA (10/4), 7pm, Haw Creek Commons, 315 Old Haw Creek Rd

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.

TU (10/7), 7:30pm, A-B Tech, 9 Genevieve Circle

ART

Native America: In Translation

This exhibition, curated by Apsáalooke artist Wendy Red Starr, features the work of seven Indigenous artists who explore themes of community, heritage, and the lasting impact of colonialism in North America. Gallery open Wednesday through Warren Wilson College, 701 Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa

Lasting Legacies: Architecture in Asheville by Richard Sharp Smith, Albert Heath Carrier & Douglas D. Ellington

Lasting Legacies shines a spotlight on the contributions of two of the city’s most prominent architectural firms to Asheville’s built environment and artistic spirit in the early decades of the 20th century. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through Jan. 18, 2026.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Looking Back to Move Forward

In response to Hurricane Helene, many Art students, faculty, and alumni created work addressing both the devastation and the ongoing recovery—compelled to investigate, reflect, mourn, and raise awareness of the many issues the storm revealed. Gallery open daily, 9am. Exhibition through Oct.

5. See p26

S Tucker Cooke Gallery, UNCA Owen Hall, 1 University Heights

Julie Miles:

MADEofTHIS

This exhibition is Julie’s reentry into art, a series that began as an homage to her grandparents’ manual labor

as farmers and evolved into a celebration of the materials, memory, and identity. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 10am, and Sunday, noon. Exhibition runs through Oct. 26.

Pink Dog Gallery, 348 Depot St

Artful Jouney: Ruth Asawa Retrospective

Each artful journey will begin with a morning drink and pastry from Recess Cafe, followed by a lecture and discussion with art historian and curator Julianna Caro.

FR (10/3), 10:30am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Modern Bestiary: Creatures from the Collection

This exhibition explores the artistic legacy of the medieval bestiary through a selection of animals and fantastic beasts from the Museum’s Collection. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through March 15, 2026. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

First Fridays

This event showcases open studios and exhibition of over 60 artists. It will also feature local musicians, beer and wine.

FR (10/3), 5pm, Resurrection Studios Collective, 160 Broadway St

Gallery Walk Explore exhibitions, meet artists, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at Asheville’s creative scene.

FR (10/3), 5pm, Gallery Mélange, 67 Biltmore Ave, Ste 20

Adult Studio: Figure Drawing

Learn the basic steps to draw a figure and improve your ability to create good compositions, sketching from a live model and artworks in the Museum's Collection.

SA (10/4), 1pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Open Art Exhibition: Raw + Unfiltered

Flood Gallery revives its art program after Helene with an open exhibition series, encompassing all perspectives, styles, & media of the local artist community.

SA (10/4), 6pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200

Tintype Time Capsule. Marshall After the Flood

A powerful solo exhibition of wet plate collodion photography by Sarah Jones Decker that documents downtown Marshall after Helene with tintypes created out of the back of her Subaru Outback mobile darkroom.

KNOWLEDGE IS ON THE MENU THURS., OCTOBER 23RD • 11AM-1PM CONTACT US TODAY 828-771-2938 | aadkison@givensgerberpark.org

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.

Gallery open Monday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through Oct. 30.

Weizenblatt Art Gallery at MHU, 79 Cascade St, Mars Hill

COMMUNITY MUSIC

Synthesizer Sound

Bath

Composer and sound designer Logos will take you on a meditative musical experience, blending analog synthesizers and acoustic instruments. FR (10/3), 7pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave Concerts on the Catawba w/Golden Shoals & The Hayley King Trio Golden Shoals is a fiddle and guitar duo with a rousing old-timestyle music. Hayley King is an old time fiddler, folk musician and songwriter from Blythewood, SC. SA (10/4), 6pm, Foothills Watershed, 655 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort

Concert w/Anya Hinkle & Friends

Anya Hinkle hosts an intimate exploration of hand-crafted, acoustic music that's rooted in the sounds of Appalachia. SA (10/4), 7:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 West State St, Black Mountain

United States Marine Band Concert

The President’s Own United States Marine Band will be performing in the historic and newly renovated Asheville High School Auditorium. SA (10/4), 7:30pm, Asheville High School, 419 McDowell St

WNC Pagan Choir: Fall Season

A community choir open to all voices in which everyone sings together to celebrate the magic of the natural world, inspired by folk and pagan traditions of Northwestern Europe. SU (10/5), 3pm, Weaverville Yoga, 3 Florida Ave, Weaverville

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

YouTube Academy for Small Business Owners

Full Day In Person

YouTube and video training for Small Business Owners who will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the training.

WE (10/1), 9am, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler

Fly Fishing Series

Learn different methods and techniques, basic gear needed to get started, how to cast

with a fly rod, good places to go in the area, and rules and regulations in NC.

WE (10/1), TU (10/7), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Intro to Golf

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your swing, this is a great opportunity for all ages to learn the game at the most beautiful golf courses in the area.

WE (10/1), 1pm, Multiple locations, Citywide

Introduction to Ads on Facebook & Google

Discover where to start with Facebook and Google ads while spending the least amount of money.

TH (10/2), 9am, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler

Learn to Ride the Bus

Featuring three different options to learn how to use the Asheville bus system.

WE (10/1), TH (10/2), FR (10/3), ART Transit Station, 49 Coxe Ave

Ignite Maker Nights: Hammer a Circle Pendant

Each Ignite Maker Night will feature a different drop in workshop to make something fun for yourself or a friend.

FR (10/3), 5pm, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A

Y12SR: Yoga & 12 Step Recovery

Open to anyone, especially those impacted by substance use and behavioral health concerns.

MO (10/6), 4:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games Clinics Asheville-Buncombe

Senior Games includes 127 events each spring for people ages 50+. Sample some of the sports at Senior Game Clinics.

TU (10/7), 10am,

Simply Charmed: Drop In Workshop

After a quick demo by the instructor you will have time to complete your masterpiece.

WE (10/8), 11am, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A

Pyrography Art Class

This workshop will teach you the basic safety and techniques to begin your journey with pyrography. After some practice, you will create a piece of art on a piece of bass wood.

TH (10/9), 4pm, Trackside Studios, 375 Depot St

Farm Legacy Planning Workshop

This event will feature a meal and multiple speakers covering essential topics,

including basic estate planning, conservation easements, and family communication.

TH (10/9), 5:30pm, NC Cooperative Extension-Madison County Center, 258 Carolina Ln, Marshall

LITERARY

Poetry Open Mic

This open mic welcomes any form of artistic expression from poetry to improv theatre to music to dance.

WE (10/1, 8), 8:30pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave

Autumn Storytime

Families with young children can enjoy stories themed around the changing weather and Appalachian history in the Vance house.

SA (10/4), 9am, Vance Birthplace, 911 Reems Creek Rd, Weaverville Level Watch: Book Launch

Mary Ardery shares her debut poetry collection based on her experience as a wilderness guide for a woman's substance abuse treatment program in the Blue Ridge Mountains. SA (10/4), 5pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd

THEATER & FILM

Film Screening of

Steffen Thomas: Rock & Chisel

A documentary about an artist and poet who moved from Germany to Atlanta in 1930 and made art until his death in 1990.

TH (10/2), 6:30pm, Hatch Innovation Hub, 45 S French Broad Ave

Improvised Jane Austen

A completely improvised 90-minute play in the style of a Jane Austen novel. Each night is a show that has never been seen before, and will never be seen again.

TH (10/2), FR (10/3), SA (10/4), 7pm, SU (10/5), 3pm, The Tina McGuire Theatre, 18 Biltmore Ave

Fire & Flood

The Sublime Theater presents the world premiere of a double feature of short plays by Travis Lowe, one of Western North Carolina’s most-produced playwrights.

TH (10/2, 9), FR (10/3), SA (10/4), 7:30pm, free, BeBe Theatre, 20 Commerce St

Sherlock Holmes & The Case of the Jersey Lily

The wit of Oscar Wilde meets the cunning of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle when Wilde brings his dear friend, Lillie Langtry, to Baker Street. SA (10/4), SU (10/5),

3pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S Washington St, Hendersonville

Arms Around ASD's Hop to the Movies: Young Frankestein

Enjoy a movie under the stars at the Arms Around ASD Outdoor Movie Night featuring the Mel Brooks classic Young Frankenstein. SA (10/4), 6:30pm, Land of the Sky United Church of Christ, 15 Overbrook Place

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 (10/6), 7pm, Eda's Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

ENOUGH: Plays to End Gun Violence

Out of 140 submissions, six plays, written by teenagers, were selected by a group of professional actors, directors, playwrights, and activists, and deal with issues like school shootings, urban and domestic violence, and suicide.

MO (10/6), 7:30pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S Washington St, Hendersonville

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS

IBN Breakfast Club: Mills River

All are invited to attend and promote their business, products, and services, and meet new referral contacts. WE (10/1), 8am, Mills River Restaurant, 4467 Boylston Hwy, Mills River

We are the Ones This is a space for real talk, deep connection, and conscious spiritual practice.

WE (10/1), 3:30pm, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way First Wednesday w/ Big Asheville Science Salon

Each month, a bona fide expert takes attendees on a thrill ride of science awesomeness with a lively Q&A afterwards.

WE (10/1), 6pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10

Southside Cyber Wednesday Dive into the exciting world of e-sports and gaming with friends and neighbors with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles.

WE (10/1), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

WNC Sierra Club Presents: Environmental & Health Impacts of Plastics A discussion about the

effects of microplastics on our health. Anna Alsobrook and Christine Mauck will discuss plastics pollution.

WE (10/1), 7pm, OLLI/ Reuter Center, UNCA, 300 Campus View Rd

IBN Biz Lunch: Hendersonville

All are invited to attend and promote their business, products, and services, and meet new referral contacts.

TH (10/2), noon, Thai Spice, 220 S King St, Hendersonville

Reconnecting Through Hard Times

In this 1-hour virtual training you’ll gain an understanding of how hard times affect us all, and what to do or say for others when it matters most. Register at avl.mx/f0s.

TH (10/2, 9), FR (10/3), noon, Online

Bhakti Bliss: An Evening of Kirtan

Immerse yourself in the transformative power of kirtan, soulful music, sacred mantras, and heartfelt community that open the heart and uplift the spirit.

FR (10/3), 7pm, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way

Calma Te': Herbs for Calming & Stress w/ Dr. Sarah Nunez

This course will provide an overview of using herbal remedies with a specific focus on herbs to bring calming, peaceful, and supportive energy to your work and daily life.

TU (10/7), 11am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

IBN Biz Lunch: East Asheville

All are invited to attend and promote their business, products, and services, and meet new referral contacts.

TU (10/7), noon, Suwana Asian Cuisine, 45 Tunnel Rd

Southside Cyber Wednesday

Dive into the exciting world of e-sports

and gaming with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles.

WE (10/8), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Mindful Stretching Reconnect with your body through this program designed to gently release tension, improve flexibility, and calm the nervous system through guided sessions.

WE (10/8), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Contraception Class w/Dr. Taylor Yankey

A deep-dive into contraception. A brief history, overview of hormones and what role they play, contraception options, and more.

WE (10/8), 6:30pm, Period Nirvana, 315 Haywood Rd, Unit 113

NSA-WNC Meeting

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

TH (10/9), 10am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

IBN Biz Lunch: Brevard/Pisgah Forest

Incredible Towns of WNC invites you to WNC's largest free and independent Business Networking group.

TH (10/9), noon, Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom, 91 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest

Climbing Wall Belay Clinic

This hour and a half long clinic will go over the basics of knot tying, safety checks, and belaying using the PBUS technique.

TH (10/9), 5:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Lifestyle Choices

An opportunity for young men to engage in open discussion

regarding the problems they encounter, why behavior matters, community involvement and more.

TH (10/9), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Craft & Connect

Get crafty and learn new skills while connecting with friends and neighbors in your Asheville community.

TH (10/9), 7pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

GAMES & CLUBS

Neighborhood Strollers Walking Club

Meet at Crump Shiloh Center and head to local neighborhoods to connect with each other while walking and enjoying a change of scenery.

WE (10/1, 8), 10am, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

Asheville Board Game Club Meet-Up

Featuring a wide variety of tabletop games—from light party games to deep strategy favorites.

WE (10/1, 8), 5:30pm, Well Played, 162 Coxe Ave, Ste 101

Senior Games Track & Field Club

Practice sprints, starts, and jumps or just get some exercise around the city’s brand new track.

TH (10/2), 1pm, Memorial Stadium, 32 Buchanan Pl

Bid Whist Make bids, call trumps, and win the tricks every Saturday with your community.

SA (10/4), 1pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Weekly Sunday Scrabble!

If you like Wordle, Boggle, Words with

Friends or Scrabble online, this club may be a good fit for you.

SU (10/5), 1:30pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Afternoon Bocce

League

Players of all ages can compete with friends and family to roll, learn, and claim victory in this new league.

MO (10/6), 2pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson 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 (10/6), 6pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave

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

MO (10/6), 6:30pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

Music Bingo w/ Spencer

Bring your friends to Taproom Tuesdays featuring Music Bingo with Spencer and rotating food trucks.

TU (10/7), 6pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200

Neighborhood Strollers Walking Club

Socialize and get moving on the paved outdoor loop around the park at Crump Shiloh Center.

TH (10/9), 6pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

KID-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS

Family Story Time

A fun and interactive story time designed for children ages 18

months to 3 years.

WE (10/1, 8), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Tiny Tykes Play Dates

Open play for toddlers to explore bikes, balls, inflatables, and climbing structures.

WE (10/1, 8), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Baby Storytime

A lively language enrichment story time designed for children ages 4 to 18 months.

TH (10/2, 9), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Kids & Teens Xing Yi

Learn complete systems of Xing Yi, Baguazhang, and Taiji, including weapons and sparring as optional classes.

TH (10/2, 9), MO (10/6), TU (10/7), 4pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Tiny Tykes

Offering a variety of activities during playtime for toddlers to explore different aspects of learning while having fun.

FR (10/3), 10am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Parents Night Out

Let your child work off extra energy with a fun filled night of themed games, crafts, and special activities. Light dinner included, but advanced registration is required.

FR (10/3), 6pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Dr. Grant Gym Rats

A fun and active P.E. program specifically for homeschooled students that offers a variety of physical activities, games, and sports.

MO (10/6), 11:45am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

APR Afterschool

Discovery Den

Featuring mix of cooking, pottery, music, digital arts, STEM, and more for kids to explore their creativity, learn new skills, and make friends in a lively and engaging environment.

MO (10/6), 2:30pm, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St

Tiny Tykes Discovery Time: Apple Pickin’ Time

This program fosters imagination and helps develop social and motor skills. Advance registration required.

TU (10/7), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave School’s Out Park

Days

School’s out or early dismissal? Head to your local park for seasonal arts and craft activities.

TU (10/7), 1pm, Jake Rusher Park, 160 Sycamore Dr, Arden

Tiny Tykes: STEM for Toddlers

Through playful exploration and handson activities, toddlers learn fun concepts in science, technology, engineering, and math.

TU (10/7), 2pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Little Kids Kung Fu (Ages 5-7)

This class builds a solid foundation through playing Kung Fu games while building HandEye-Foot coordination as well as listening skills.

WE (10/8), 3pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

LOCAL MARKETS

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 (10/1, 8), 3pm, Leicester Community Center, 2979 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester

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

WE (10/1, 8), 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 (10/1, 8), 3pm, Weaverville Tailgate Market, 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 (10/2, 9), 3pm, Biltmore Park Town Square, Town Square Blvd

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 (10/2, 9), 3:30pm, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler 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 (10/3), 3pm, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Rd

Huge Swannanoa Community Yard Sale Shoppers will find a huge variety of items—everything from household goods, furniture, tools, and clothing to books, toys, antiques, and one-of-akind treasures.

SA (10/4), 8am, Ingles Swannanoa Parking Lot, 2299 US-70, Swannanoa

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 (10/4), 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 (10/4), 8am, 275 Edgewood Rd

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 (10/4), 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 (10/4), 9am, 130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Pop-up Parking Lot Book Market

This book marker will feature over 1,000 books including a huge selection of children's books.

SA (10/4), 9am, Marshall Public Library, 1335 N Main St, Marshall

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 (10/4), 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 (10/4), 10am, 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

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 (10/5), 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 (10/7), 3:30pm, 718 Haywood Rd

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Asheville Recyclery Open House

The Asheville Recyclery provides low-cost or no-cost bicycles to anyone who needs one, and empowers people to learn their own bicycle maintenance.

TH (10/2), 4pm, Sly Grog Lounge, 271 Haywood St

Stronger than the Storm: A MountainTrue Gathering

To mark the one-year anniversary, we decided to focus on what matters most: coming together to honor people like you.

TH (10/2), 5:30pm, Asheville Yards, 75 Coxe Ave

Mars Hill First Fridays Celebrate First Fridays with live music, a vendor village, a kids corner, art, food, gifts and more.

FR (10/3), 5pm, Downtown Mars Hill, Mars Hill

The 13th Annual Haunted Trail

An interactive outdoor Haunted Trail for all ages that features classic spooky themes and dozens of local community partners.

FR (10/3), SA (10/4) , 6pm, Adventure Center of Asheville, 85 Expo Dr Pawpaw Ice Cream Release

The Pawpaw Ice Cream is back at all four locations of The Hop Ice Cream. To celebrate, Asheville GreenWorks will providing info for their environmental work and pawpaw seedlings for sale.

See p25

TH (10/3), noon, The Hop, 640 Merrimon Ave

Orison Books' 10th Anniversary Celebration

An evening of literature and dance with Orison Books author Amit Majmudar in a collaborative performance with his wife, classical Indian dancer Ami Buch Majmudar.

FR (10/3), 6:30pm, NC Stage Co., 15 Stage Ln

Fall Fest & Working Lands Showcase

This event is free to attend and open to the public with autumnal activities, live music, tours, and open houses from our land and craft crews.

SA (10/4), 10am, Warren Wilson College Farm, 108 South Ln, Swannanoa

Forest Festival Day & Woodsmen's Meet

The festival is an activity-filled, family event that commemorates the traditions of mountain living. Competitors will test their skills in a number of events including archery, axe throwing, crosscut sawing and pole felling.

SA (10/4), 10am, The Cradle of Forestry, 11250 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest

Asheville Veganfest: Education Day Education day for Asheville Veganfest will feature cooking demos, food trucks, food vendors, small

shops, a panel discussion and featured educational speakers.

SA (10/4), 11am, AB Tech, Ferguson Auditorium, 340 Victoria Rd

Tour de Fat

This event features Asheville's greatest costumed bike parade that will be riding into town. At the end, you can enjoy more beer and music from Polyrhythmics, Sam Green Field Music and Electro Lust.

SA (10/4), 12pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St Oktoberfest

Asheville Oktoberfest returns to Pack Square Park for a full day of music, games, and German-inspired flare, this year the event is free and open to the public.

SA (10/4), 1pm, Pack Square Park, 1 South Pack Square Park

Appfest w/Reedy River String Band

Celebrate all Appalachia has to offer with live music, a makers market hosted by the Appalachian Artist Collective, fall beer releases and pumpkin decorating.

SA (10/4), 2pm, Wicked Weed Brewing, 91 Biltmore Ave

Burnpile w/Allah Las & Rattlesnake Milk

Attendees will enjoy a full-day concert alongside a tasting experience from a diverse lineup of 60+ breweries.

SA (10/4), 2pm, Burial Beer Co. Forestry Camp Taproom, 10 Shady Oak Dr Oktoberfest w/Todd Cecil & Dirt Yard Choir

From September through October, enjoy steins, pretzels, and plenty of polka-inspired fun while the bands keep the party going.

SA (10/4), 2pm, The Funkatorium, 147 Coxe Ave

Bascom Lamar Lunsford Mountain Music Festival

It's the second longest-running folk festival in WNC and honors the rich cultural traditions of Southern Appalachian Mountains.

SA (10/4), 7pm, Mars Hill University, College St, Mars Hill Barktoberfest

Grab your best bud for a day full of puptastic fun, interactive activities for furry friends, and canine contests. Meet local pet vendors for special treats and get a caricature of your dog.

SU (10/5), 10am, Riverbend Park, 100 Bleachery Blvd

Fall Festivities

Celebrate the fall season with hayrides, pumpkins, freshpressed apple cider, and the unbeatable scenic landscape.

SU (10/5), 11am, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview

Asheville Veganfest: Festival Day

The festival day of Asheville Veganfest will feature a DJ spinning tunes, food trucks, food vendors, small shops and free face painting.

SU (10/5), noon, Pack Square Park, 1 South Pack Square Park

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING

Dig In: Yancey Community Garden Empty Bowls 2025

This annual Empty Bowls fundraiser supports the work of growing and sharing fresh food from Dig In's gardens. Tickets come with a choice of soup, bread, desserts, and handcrafted bowl.

FR (10/3), 4pm, Burnsville Town Center, 6 S Main St, Burnsville

Rock for Relief 2025

The second annual Rock for Relief music festival will feature numerous bands on Miller Street in downtown Waynesville, NC. Main stage headliner will be beloved jam/ rock act Big Something Unplugged. See p26 FR (10/3), SA (10/4), Miller St, Downtown Waynesville

Blue Ridge Asheville Drag Bingo Expect six rounds of spellbinding bingo, prizes, and upbeat tunes. After event expenses are paid all profits are donated to a local charity. FR (10/3), 6pm, Hilltop Event Center, 21 Restaurant Court Pet Blessing in Honor of St Francis of Assisi Bring your pets to receive a special blessing from Rev. Dr Suzi Schadle and our Prayer Practitioners.

SA (10/4), 10am, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way Pieces of Hope Puzzle Competition Grab some friends, create a team, and show off your puzzling skills, while raising money to support the services of the Hundred Movement.

SA (10/4), 2pm, Woodland Hills Baptist Church, 50 Woodland Hills Rd

Oakley Community Closet

A cost-free opportunity to swap and shop clothes, shoes, and toys. WE (10/8), 1pm, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd, Asheville 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 (10/9), 9am, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

‘We are here to be joyful’

On competing desires and other musings on life transitions

BY JAMIE ZANE

jamie@outofthewoodstherapy.com

Dear Readers,

Lately I have been thinking a lot about the various transitions we face in our lives. Specifically, the personal developmental shifts that cause massive growth but only by way of pain, awkwardness or some other form of discomfort. These transitions can wreak havoc on some or all of the relationships we have with others and ourselves.

It is fitting that I have a child who is in middle school and that I am in the throes of perimenopause. It’s also timely that suddenly everyone seems to be talking about perimenopause and menopause. (FINALLY!) Or maybe that’s just the current algorithm for me and my friends. (Speaking of which, see the viral Instagram account of Melani Sanders, founder of the We Do Not Care movement at avl.mx/f19.)

Why am I bringing all of this up? Because it’s so easy to forget that a lot of what we are dealing with during these transitions is both common as well as exacerbated by whatever is going on in our culture or environment. It’s easy to start spinning out, pathologizing ourselves (and maybe our family members) and going into full-on existential crisis mode.

Change is inevitable, and yet we often fear or resist even our most positive, happy changes and react as if there is an earthquake ripping through our identity.

I posed a question in this column several months back that I asked readers to consider: What is sex for? This is an activity I love doing with couples sometimes. I have each person write down as many words as they can conjure in a few minutes to respond in as many ways as they can. This list can change depending on which developmental phase you’re in as an adult. That seems to surprise a lot of people, as if they are expecting the way they feel about sex to be constant.

DESIRE DISCREPANCIES

One of the most common issues for a sex therapist to face with clients is desire discrepancies: when one partner wants to engage more than the other. The stereotype for opposite-sex couples is that it’s always the man who “wants it” more. This stereotype has

been defied in my personal experience working with clients over the years. The reality is that most relationships have a person who wants to engage more than the other, and that fact transcends gender, sexuality and various other human identities.

It can feel like a crisis of compatibility when a partnership faces competing desires, and this can happen at any stage of the relationship.

• For some, this can look like sex was exciting and consistently happening at the beginning of the relationship but then dropped off when things became more serious.

• For others, maybe sex was not a part of the relationship at the beginning because both partners agreed to deprioritize it for one reason or another.

• In some instances, sex is compulsory at the beginning. Once that wears off, a partner may realize that their pleasure had never been centered, and that partner is no longer interested in service sex.

• Events that caused a person’s body to experience sex as painful (such as a birth trauma, an accident, a medical diagnosis, an unwanted experience) could also change how a person engages.

• There could also be an awakening of identity. Perhaps one realizes they identify as asexual but didn’t have language or knowledge of that when they first entered the relationship. Or maybe they realize they are queer, bisexual or pansexual. Or they identify as a gender that no longer aligns with their partner’s orientation.

There are so many things that can impact desire for sex. And there are so many different ways of approaching these changes that can happen to any of us.

My best advice is to approach yourself with as much curiosity as possible. Tame the critical, judgmental voices in your head by neutralizing their mean, unnecessary messages. Do some reading from reputable sources. Find a sex-positive person to talk this out with. This could be a friend who can hold space without judgement, if possible, or a therapist who is bound by confidentiality.

But really and truly reflect on that question: What is sex for? What has it meant to you in your life, and how has that changed? What do you want it to be for now? And what kind of barriers

do you need to overcome to have it be what you want it to be?

THERE IS MORE HOPE THAN YOU THINK

Your sexuality belongs to you, just as your desire for certain types of foods, movement, music and all sorts of pleasurable things available in this world belong to you. We can have very strong feelings about any of these desires and complicated relationships with just about anything that we derive pleasure from.

But it has to belong to you first before you can share it with anyone else.

Many of us did not get that encouragement from our reluctant gym teachers who taught sex education, our silent parents or our particularly loud parents who told us that it was a “wifely duty.”

I am of a different opinion that has become stronger over the years after witnessing the pain that is caused by our feelings about our own sexuality.

Most of us are not nearly as weird as we imagine ourselves to be.

So what happens next? What if you are dealing with massive changes that are developmental but that nonetheless are shaking things up with your romantic partnership? After you’ve talked it over with a friend and/or therapist (or found a supportive group), and after you've done research and gained confidence, the next step would be to talk it over with your partner (if you’ve been avoiding this).

Are they willing to look at themselves and their own relationship with their sexuality? Are they willing and able to be honest with themselves and with you about what their wants and needs are for sex and for other forms of intimate expression in this relationship? Are they able to have a mature, open-ended conversation that doesn’t automatically become an argument or feel fraught with hijacked nervous systems? If not, perhaps they need to be encouraged to go on their own journey, as you did, so that the two of you can come together and collaborate from a place that feels mutually beneficial.

Maybe this means that the two of you open up your relationship. Or maybe it means you close it. Maybe it means that you have an honest evaluation of the relationship and figure out ways to transition it to friendship over time. (You don’t have to hate someone or have them hate you to end a romantic partnership.) Or maybe it means

DEALING WITH CHANGE: “One of the most common issues for a sex therapist to face with clients is desire discrepancies: when one partner wants to engage more than the other,” writes sex therapist Jamie Zane. “This can happen at any stage of the relationship.” Photo by Ryan Brazell

you figure out ways of reimagining your sex life together and get creative as co-conspirators.

I imagine this audience to be far too broad for me to get superprescriptive about your situation. But know that there are options, and likely there is more hope than you think there is. We all deal with our own mixture of desire for change and resistance to change. This is yet another symptom of the human condition.

As I face this midlife transition of existential dread in my personal life, I just want to say that life is too short and — as one of my very dear friends always reminds me — we are here to be joyful.

You are welcome to send questions or topic requests to jamie@ outofthewoodstherapy.com. X

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ARTS & CULTURE

Money makers

ArtsAVL reports shed light on Buncombe County’s creative economy

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN

earnaudin@mountainx.com

ArtsAVL, Buncombe County’s designated arts council and arts advocate for Western North Carolina, recently released two major research reports: the 2025 Creative Economy Snapshot and the Economic Contribution of Creative Industries in Buncombe County. Prepared by Riverbird Research, the findings collectively provide the most comprehensive picture thus far of the county’s creative economy.

The reports show that arts jobs continue to grow, as do earnings and sales, but the rate has slowed since 2022. Leading industries include historical sites, independent artists/writers/performers, commercial printing, and motion picture and video production, while the top occupations are photographers, writers, musicians and fine artists.

In addition, for every $1 of direct output, an additional 56 cents is generated in the local economy. And for every direct creative job, another 0.61 jobs are supported elsewhere.

“Asheville and Buncombe County have long been recognized for their vibrant arts and culture,” says Katie Cornell, executive director of ArtsAVL, in a press release. “These reports confirm not only the strength of our creative workforce but also the deep connections between the arts and the wider economy. From freelancers and small studios to major cultural institutions, the creative sector is a driver of jobs, income and growth —

AROUND TOWN

BEHIND THE LENS: According to new reports by ArtsAVL, Asheville-area photographers like Rey Castillo Jr. keep the local creative sector vibrant. Photo courtesy of Castillo

and a vital part of our community’s recovery and long-term resilience.”

The two reports set a vital baseline as ArtsAVL prepares for Buncombe County’s five-year Arts Recovery Plan (2026–30), which is now in development with Lord Cultural Resources, the City of Asheville, Buncombe County and other partners.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f42.

RIDDLEFEST HONORS MUSICAL TRADITIONS IN BURNSVILLE

RiddleFest returns to the Burnsville Town Center on Saturday, Oct. 25. The event is produced annually by Traditional Voices Group as a tribute to Lesley Riddle, an African-American musician from Yancey County who influenced the development of early

country music through his collaboration with A.P. Carter and the Carter Family.

Activities include a free seminar at 3 p.m. by East Tennessee State University (ETSU) faculty members Roy Andrade and Kalia Yeagle, titled “Music of the Appalachian Highlands: Setting the Stage for the Birth of Country Music.” A ticketed evening concert will commence at 7 p.m., featuring the ETSU Old Time Ramblers, a string band composed of ETSU students in the university’s Bluegrass, Old Time, and Roots Music program. Tickets for the Concert are $20 for adults, available in advance or at the event.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f43.

LUMINERE DEBUTS AT BILTMORE IN MARCH

Biltmore premieres Luminere, an outdoor evening experience that illuminates the estate’s historic grounds with light, sound and imagery, on March 26. It’s the first such exterior night offering that Biltmore has programmed in its 130-year history and will be offered on select evenings through Oct. 18, 2026.

Crafted in collaboration with the experiential design studio Klip Collective, Luminere reimagines the façade of Biltmore House and the estate’s revered gardens with color, motion, sound and storytelling. Guests will take a self-guided tour through featured areas, including the Biltmore House, the Italian Garden, the Pergola, the Shrub Garden, the Walled Garden, a treescape and the Conservatory. Projections on the front of Biltmore House will showcase milestones in the estate’s history, and an original musical score composed by Julian Grefe will feature the Asheville Symphony.

“Using Biltmore House and its iconic gardens as our canvas, we’ve created a visual and emotional journey that honors the estate’s histo-

ry and natural surroundings,” says Ricardo Rivera, creative director and founder of Klip Collective, in a press release. “We’re telling stories with light in a way that stirs the senses.”

Through Thursday, Oct. 16, visitors who pay for Fall or Christmas Biltmore House admission receive one free Luminere voucher, while those who buy a new Biltmore annual pass receive two free Luminere vouchers. Individual tickets go on sale Wednesday, Nov. 12, and are $65 per person in addition to regular admission fees.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f44

VILLAGE POTTERS CLAY CENTER REOPENS

Just over a year after being destroyed by floodwaters from Tropical Storm Helene, the Village Potters Clay Center hosts its grand reopening celebration on Saturday, Oct. 11, 4-8 p.m. The business’s new 18,000-square-foot location is at 44 Westgate Parkway.

An anchor of Asheville’s River Arts District, the center was sustained over the past year by the Village Potters Foundation, which is working to become a nonprofit. The new location offers affordable studio space to dozens of storm-displaced potters and provides educational resources to empower and train future generations of ceramic artists.

“Pottery reflects our shared humanity, history and life stories,” says Sarah Wells Rolland, the center’s founding president, in a press release. “And all forms of artistic expression foster deeper connections to one another — which are critically important and priceless in these challenging times. Everyone is cordially invited to join us for the reopening celebration, and to witness for themselves the extraordinary, inspiring power of collaborative community resilience in action.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/ak4. X

WEDNESDAYS 7:00PM

10/2: Reader: Violet 1:20-6

10/3: Reader: Krysta 12-6

Sacred Tears Book Club & Process Group 4-5:30

10/5: Reader: Andrea 12-4 Collage Playshop 4-5:30 Crystal Bowl Sound Bath

YEAR BINEER Magical Offerings

10/6: FULL MOON in Aries Reader: Jessica 12-7 Mediumship Monday 6-7 October Herb: Agrimony October Stone: Obsidian

The final frontier

BY CHRISTOPHER ARBOR

Beer: The frothy frontier. These are the voyages of the Year in Beer crew. Their yearlong mission: to visit one Asheville brewery each week in the order that they opened; to share their experiences with Mountain Xpress readers; to boldly drink beer that no one has drunk before … that no one has drank before? Had drunken? Geez. For a beer writer, I should be way better at conjugating “drink.” To read about the beer that we drankened at Zillicoah Beer Co., visit avl.mx/f3b.

Captain’s Log - Stardate: 9/24/25 - We’d received reports that seismic shifts were occurring at Outsider Brewing Co., so the Year in Beer crew traveled at warp speed up Riverside Drive and beamed ourselves inside.

Things were different indeed: The equipment had vanished. For years, Outsider’s claim to fame was the transparent brewing system set up in its taproom. By “transparent,” I mean “made of glass.” Visitors could watch every stage of the brewing process — a cross between science lab and performance art. Imagine Mr. Wizard or Bill Nye talking their audience through fermentation.

The concept was compelling, so the disappearance seemed tragic or at the very least … illogical. This warranted further investigation.

Dr. Rogers questioned the bartender; Commander West took photographs; and I sent a transmission to the ownership. Meanwhile, the rest of our away team dutifully consumed beer, unsure if it would be the last Outsider brews they’d ever have the pleasure of drinking.

Empty glasses began multiplying like tribbles. Lieutenant Young reported that the Pub Ale was on point. Ensign Kriegler recommended the Tijuana Lager. Admiral Miller said that his Mild Ale was a bit of a Kobayashi Maru situation. “It’s so delicious, that there’s no way out,” Miller explained.

I received a response from co-owner Julian Arena informing me that Outsider moved its brewing system to the recently opened Foothills Watershed in Old Fort, marking the beginning of the next phase of the business.

“The system is intellectual property that we designed,” he explained. “Watershed is our first client to build a custom brewery experience for their business using our technology. We plan

Strange new pints at Outsider Brewing

to do many more of those builds in the future for other businesses who want to add brewing to their destinations.”

And what of the current space in Woodfin, I inquired. A brewery without brewing is like a ship without a warp core.

“It’s going to transform into a performing arts space,” Arena told me. “We have a vision for a late-night venue. We’re already dabbling and will continue to experiment with all sorts of music, comedy, exhibitions, plays, etc.” Outsider is working with the community to ease into that transition this fall, he added.

And so it seems that the apparent disappearance of the brewing equipment isn’t so tragic after all. But with all of these changes afoot, what will

remain the same? Will it even still be Outsider?

“A name change may be in the future,” Arena wrote. “But it will be the same team, same dream! Outsider was our first prototype, and once we felt confident in our invention, it was time to move on to bigger and bolder projects.”

Bigger and bolder projects, indeed. Here’s to charting a new course. Engage. Come join us on another adventure. We gather at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. You can email me at yearinbeerasheville@gmail.com or just show up.

• Oct. 1: RAD Brewing Co.

• Oct. 8: Salt Face Mule Brewing Co. X

RESISTANCE IS FUTILE: On their recent mission to Outsider Brewing, Burke Rogers, left, and Misha Rogers encountered a Gorn, a fierce reptilian humanoid from the original Star Trek television show. Photo by Christopher Arbor

Free spirits

BY AUDREY AND BILL KOPP

In recent years, cocktail culture has gone sophisticated, moving away from sickly sweet booze delivery devices (we’re looking at you, Long Island Iced Tea) toward a more refined approach. Alongside that trend has come a greater emphasis on a previously neglected beverage segment: drinks with no alcohol whatsoever.

The reasons for wanting a nonalcoholic drink are myriad. The term “mocktail” dates back to before the Prohibition Era, from the years in which the temperance movement was gaining ground. Then as now, mocktail refers to an alcohol-free mixed beverage designed to take the place of one with liquor. But let’s dispense once and for all with the term. A fine nonalcoholic mixed drink isn’t mocking anything; it should stand proudly on its own.

SURGE IN DEMAND

A good cocktail is a careful mix of quality ingredients, providing a perfect balance of complex flavor profile, alluring aroma, satisfying mouthfeel and visual appeal. And there’s simply no reason that a nonalcoholic mixed drink shouldn’t provide that same list of virtues.

Bars far and wide have caught on to the increasing popularity of nonalcoholic cocktails. Most every drinking establishment now includes such offerings on its menu.

“We think bars are about a lot more than just alcohol,” says Chall Gray, co-owner of Asheville bar Little Jumbo, recently named to USA Today’s list of 29 U.S. Bars of the Year for 2025. “They’re a place to find community, take a moment for yourself, meet a friend or listen to some music. So it’s important to us to cater to all different beverage preferences.”

Bars like Little Jumbo have taken on the sometimes challenging mission of developing booze-free cocktails that have the same nuance and complexity found in their alcohol-containing counterparts. “Coming up with a great NA drink is often more challenging than creating a traditional cocktail,” Gray says.

But in recent years, that noble task has become significantly easier. The market growth of spirit-free alternative beverages has taken a sharp upward path. According to a 2023 report by Grand View Research, the market for

The proof’s in the recipe with quality no-booze cocktails

DRINKS FOR ALL: At NØLO bottle shop, owners Jen and Jason Phillips specialize in no-booze spirits, nonalcoholic wines and other NA options. Photo courtesy of NØLO

nonalcoholic spirits is $384 million annually and is expected to grow nearly 80% by 2030. Anticipating and/or in response to that surge in demand, a wide range of products has come on the market.

FELLOW EVACUEES

A tantalizing assortment of those nonalcoholic spirits is found on the shelves of NØLO. Launched in 2021 by a local entrepreneur to serve the “sober and sober-curious community,” NØLO began in a booth of the Marquee art gallery in the River Arts District. Jen and Jason Phillips were enthusiastic and loyal patrons, and when they learned the business was for sale, the couple took the leap.

“We bought it two months before [Tropical Storm Helene],” Jason says with a pained smile. Helene destroyed Marquee and everything inside it, including NØLO’s booth and all of its stock.

In resilient Asheville fashion, the Phillipses reopened NØLO at 178 Broadway inside Atomic Furnishing & Design. A fellow Helene evacuee, Atomic had itself relocated from its washed-out Swannanoa River Road location. NØLO’s welcoming space displays its ample stock, with room to host regular — and free — Saturday tastings. (Check NØLO’s social media for upcoming events.)

Those reading the fine print on the labels of NØLO’s offerings will notice

that an alcohol content of 0.5% is often noted. Understandably, that raises concerns for some. But Jen explains that a yeasty piece of bread or a fresh banana contains about the same amount of naturally occurring alcohol. For practical — and legal — purposes, everything on NØLO’s shelves is classified as nonalcoholic.

“Thirty percent of drinking-age folks in the U.S don’t drink [alcohol] at all,” Jen says. And for the segment of those abstainers still desiring a drink that provides the ineffable qualities of a fine cocktail, there are now many choices.

“It’s really about high-quality beverages, made with love and [primarily] by small producers,” she says.

Jason emphasizes that it’s not only those avoiding alcohol who are attracted to the array of spirits on NØLO’s shelves. “A lot of our customers and

folks who come to our tastings still drink,” he explains. “They just want some options that don’t have alcohol.”

PROXIES

Some alcohol-free spirits, Jen says, are designed to offer a taste and sensory experience similar to their booze counterparts. NØLO stocks a variety of “proxies” — spirits modeled after gin, tequila, bourbon, Campari and the like, all without alcohol. Another category is functionals, beverages designed to support benefits including stress relief and cognitive function. “They’re our most popular segment,” Jason says.

NØLO also stocks a supply of NA wines (still and sparkling) and select alcohol-free beers, including some from Asheville’s Burial Brewing. The shop also carries a selection of ready-todrink, premixed nonalcohol cocktails.

For craft-minded home bartenders, NØLO stocks an assortment of alcohol-free bitters, including offerings from All the Bitter, a brand founded by two former sommeliers from Napa Valley’s famed three-Michelin-star The French Laundry restaurant.

NØLO is unique in the Asheville market as a retailer selling only NA products, but other local businesses serve the market as well. Appalachian Vintner, for example, carries an extensive selection of no-alcohol proxies.

The staff at nearby trendy bar DayTrip are regular NØLO patrons; they’ve even added cocktails to their menu using ingredients from the shop.

“One of our best sellers is Nebula Nectar,” says DayTrip bar manager Casey Cole. That cocktail is built on a base of Dhos Gin Free, a zero-calorie nonalcoholic spirit made with classic gin botanicals.

“More and more people are focusing on a healthy lifestyle,” Cole says. “And we want everyone to be able to enjoy a night out.” X

I Can’t Even Bourbon

Try your hand at making your own nonalcoholic cocktail with this simple recipe from NØLO co-owner Jen Phillips

“I wanted an easy drink to make for an upcoming event, our first since the storm,” she explains. “It needed to be delicious and a crowd-pleaser. It needed to work for alcohol drinkers and nondrinkers alike.”

• 2 ounces bourbon alternative (we use Free Spirits’ The Spirit of Bourbon)

• ¼ ounce fresh lime juice

• 4 ounces ginger beer (we use Devil’s Foot Beverage Co.)

Combine NA bourbon and lime juice in an ice-filled highball glass. Top with ginger beer. Give it a single stir. Garnish with lime. X

Hello, deli

WHAT’S NEW IN FOOD

WESTSIDE CONNECTION: Finest co-owner/founder Mike Bean prepares an order at a local farmers market. The deli opened its brick-and-mortar location at 794 Haywood Road in late September. Photo courtesy of Finest

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN

The former Asheville Sandwich Co. building at 794 Haywood Road is now home to Finest, a fresh take on sandwich shops that’s built on co-owner/founder Mike Bean’s deep appreciation for Italian American and Northeast deli traditions, as well as co-owner and director of beverage, events and front of house Gab Bonfiglio’s Certified Cicerone Level 2 beverage experience.

A popular pop-up at local farmers markets, Finest seeks to be an affordable spot for Asheville residents to hang out on a daily basis. Open WednesdaysSundays, the business will serve breakfast and lunch daily, plus brunch on weekends. Additional offerings include a walk-up “egg window,” where customers may order a bodega egg sandwich, vegan fritter sandwich and hot broths; grab-and-go sandwiches and salads; pickles, olives and deli salads; and a deli case and grocery.

The beverage program curated by Bonfiglio includes local draft beers; low-ABV, nationally distributed brews

(e.g., Miller High Life, Narragansett and Peroni), niche wines; Vermouthbased cocktails; elevated nonalcoholic options; and a custom house drip coffee blend roasted by Underground Baking Co. and Independent Roasters. The interior design aspires to transport guests to a midcentury Italian delicatessen, using red tiles sourced from 1970s Genoa, Italy, a collection of vintage furniture, baby photos of the staff and food-themed children’s toys.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/prz0

Pawpaw ice cream back at The Hop

Pawpaws are back — and with them, pawpaw ice cream at all four The Hop locations. The flavor debuts Friday, Oct. 3, in dairy and vegan editions. The release event at the shop’s Merrimon Avenue spot, 3-6 p.m., will partner with Asheville GreenWorks, which will have representatives on-site to offer information and pawpaw seedlings for purchase.

“Pawpaws are truly magical — with a flavor that’s a delightful mix of

mango, banana, vanilla and pineapple,” says Ashley Garrison, co-owner of The Hop, in a press release. “We’re so fortunate to collaborate with local growers to bring this extraordinary ice cream to more people.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f3x.

Chef J Chong at Hickory Nut Gap Farm

Asheville’s own chef J Chong (of HBO Max’s “The Big Brunch” and the North Asheville Tailgate Market) teams up with Hickory Nut Gap Farm for Fall to Table, an intimate supper in the property’s Big Barn, on Thursday, Oct. 23, 5–8 p.m. Chef Chong’s seasonal menu combines her Cantonese roots, North Carolina culinary traditions and autumn’s bounty while also celebrating her reputation for bold flavors and a creative spirit.

The evening includes a starting bite with beverage pairing by Haw River Wine Man; three family-style courses, highlighting fall produce and Hickory Nut Gap’s regeneratively raised meats; and dessert by pastry chef

Austin Whitty of Mount Patisserie, made with ingredients sourced within the state.

Tickets are $125. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f3z

Crown & Thistle celebrates spooky season

Who says tea can’t be a little macabre? Waynesville’s Crown & Thistle Tea gets in on the Halloween fun with its Hocus Pocus Children’s Tea on Sunday, Oct. 19, 3-5 p.m. Designed for families and suitable for children ages 5-12, the event is inspired by the 1993 film Hocus Pocus. Attendees are invited to dress in their most bewitching costumes and enjoy bubbling brews and treats to match the holiday. The afternoon also includes a potion-making station craft project. Adults will be served the regular October Classic Afternoon Tea menu.

Tickets are $30 for children and $40 for adults. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f3y

Diwali at Spicewalla

Local spice producer Spicewalla hosts a Diwali celebration at its Grove Arcade location on Saturday, Oct. 25, noon-4 p.m. Also known as the Hindu Festival of Lights, Diwali is one of India’s most widely celebrated holidays and coincides with other harvest rituals and festivals.

The Spicewalla event features such fellow Desi-owned makers as Doosra, Chutni Punch, Keya's Snacks, Masala Gossip and Botiwalla. Free to attend.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f40

Homeslyce on King expands offerings

Brevard-based restaurant Homeslyce on King is growing. In addition to adding alcohol to the menu, the pizza parlor now has big-screen TVs on the patio and expanded weekend hours.

“We want to be the perfect place to bring your family or unwind with friends after a long bike ride,” proprietor Jackson Wine says in a news release. “We’re glad to be part of this community and want to feed, serve and invite them to have a good time with us while enjoying all that Transylvania County has to offer.”

Located in the city’s Lumberyard Arts District, Homeslyce on King opened in April 2024 and is known for giant gourmet pizzas and individual slices, plus minidoughnuts.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f41  X

SMART BETS

by Edwin Arnaudin | earnaudin@mountainx.com

Jacoozy

Composed of Killian Wright (vocals/ guitar), Will Fentress (vocals/guitar), Pauly Scott (vocals/drums), Isaac McMurray (vocals/keys) and Ramon Garcia (bass), Asheville-based band Jacoozy has become one of North Carolina’s most exciting up-and-coming groups through groove-driven jams, heartfelt storytelling and electric live performances. In mid-September, the quintet took a seismic step in their artistic journey with the release of their debut full-length album, Still Afloat, which channels influences from The Allman Brothers Band, Widespread

Panic and The Band into their own distinct sound.

“We are inspired by that old-school vibe, but we are doing it in our own way,” says Scott in a press release. “It’s not about repeating the past. It’s about moving it forward.”

To celebrate this accomplishment Jacoozy plays an album release show on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at The Grey Eagle. Local jazz fusion group Blingus Trio — Jeff Sipe, Quinn Sternberg and Jay Sanders — start off the event at 8 p.m. Tickets are $18.45. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f46. X

‘Looking Back to Move Forward’

Among the numerous communities impacted by Tropical Storm Helene were the faculty, staff and students of UNC Asheville, who pulled together to make living, working and learning on campus possible in the wake of the disaster. In response, many art students, faculty and alumni crafted works addressing both the devastation and the ongoing recovery for the exhibition Looking Back to Move Forward. To help shape the collection’s narrative, facul-

ty who were engaged in sustainability efforts across campus were invited to pick works that both tell the story of Helene and highlight the broader impacts of climate change.

Now on display in the S. Tucker Cooke Gallery in Owen Hall, Looking Back to Move Forward features the work of 53 artists (38 students, nine alumni, five faculty and one staff). The exhibition is on view until Sunday, Oct. 5. Free to attend. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f47  X

‘Where Do We Come Together?’

The Mall R.A.T.S. are back at it. After the immensely successful inaugural art show, You Are Here, the Asheville-based art collective — whose acronym stands for Radical Artists Taking Up Space — looks to build momentum with its second community exhibition, Where Do We Come Together? The nonjuried show asks area artists to submit work that corresponds to, answers or furthers the question posed in the event’s title.

According to a press release, this prompt “does not require artists to make a piece from scratch, although they are more than welcome to. Works completed before are permitted, as

long as connections to the question — whether literal, metaphorical, abstract or otherwise — are drawn.”

All artists who bring a ready-todisplay piece to the Asheville Mall by the J.C. Penney garage entrance on Saturday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., will be included in the exhibition, as long as space is available. Three-dimensional work must be able to be mounted onto a wall, and submissions must not be explicit or hateful. There will be an opening reception following the installation, 5-7 p.m., and the works will remain up through Friday, Jan. 9. Free to attend. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f48. X

Rock for Relief Music Fest

In the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, a team of 11 local residents formed Rock for Relief to raise funds through music events for area aid organizations. In early November 2024, their inaugural music festival featured over 60 bands performing in 18 venues across Haywood County and pulled in over $35,000 in donations.

The group has remained busy and looks to build on its success with the second yearly Rock for Relief Music Fest, which will be held Friday-Saturday, Oct. 3-4, in downtown Waynesville and benefit the Haywood County Arts Council. The Oct. 3 lineup includes Billingsley, Cloud Circuit and an unplugged set from Big Something. And the Oct. 4 offerings feature Patrick Sweany, Red Clay Revival, Pleasure Chest, Arnold Hill, Smashing Mouths and an “AVL All-star Jam” composed of Gill Francis, Ashley Heath, Melissa McKinney and other local notables.

The bulk of performances will take place on the Miller Street Main Stage with late-night sets shifting to The Scotsman Public House. Fee-inclusive tickets are $23.18 for Oct. 3, $33.85 for Oct. 4, and $44.52 for a weekend pass. VIP options are also available and any and all donations are welcome. To learn more, visit avl.mx/f49  X

Jacoozy. Photo by Fiasco Media

The Mall R.A.T.S. Photo by Anna Helgeson

Patrick Sweany.

Photo by Chad Cochran

Photo of the River Arts District, taken on Sept. 28, 2024, by Allison Ward

For

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1

12 BONES SMOKEHOUSE & BREWING

Trivia w/King Trivia, 7pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Everything Yes (jazz), 8pm

ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO.

Wednesday Trivia, 6:30pm

ASHEVILLE YARDS

Lake Street Dive w/ Trousdale (pop, jazz, indie-folk), 7pm

CAMDEN'S COFFEE

HOUSE

Open Mic Night, 7pm

ELUVIUM BREWERY

The Candleers (country), 5:30pm

EULOGY

Castle Rat w/Bask & Howling Giant (doom, metal), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S

Safety Coffin & Her Pilots (garage-blues, punk), 9pm

FOOTHILLS GRANGE Trivia Night, 6:30pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers Jamgrass Wednesdays, 6:30pm

GALACTIC PIZZA

Fast Eddie's Trivia, 6:30pm

HIGHLAND BREWING

DOWNTOWN TAPROOM

Well-Crafted Music

Series: Amanda Anne Platt and The Honeycutters, 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

PISGAH BREWING

CO.

Alex Bazemore & Friends (bluegrass), 6pm

SHAKEY'S

SSIN w/DJ Ragga Massive, 10pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

STATIC AGE

RECORDS

Little Mazarn, Lemon Balm & Nawal (indie-rock, folk, pop), 8:45pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Glare w/Cloakroom, Jivebomb & Destiny Bond (alt-rock, shoegaze), 7pm

THE JOINT NEXT

DOOR

Circus Mutt (folk, Americana), 7pm

THE MULE

Jazz Trio & Wine Wednesdays, 6pm

THE ODD

Terraoke Karaoke Takeover, 9pm

CLUBLAND

4.

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

JCE & The End (Americana), 10pm

THIRD ROOM

Disclaimer Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 9:30pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Open Mic Night, 6pm

URBAN ORCHARD Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2

ANTIDOTE

COCKTAIL LOUNGE AT CHEMIST

Antidote Comedy w/ Will Abeles, 7pm

CROW & QUILL

Russ Wilson & The Kings of Jazz (jazz, swing), 8pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Bless Your Heart Trivia w/Harmon, 7pm

EULOGY

Gimme Dimme Disco, 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Cruise Control, Jessie & the Jinx, Nordmore & the Rodeo (country, rock'n'roll), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

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

GREEN MAN

BREWERY

Thursday Night Trivia, 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

JUNEBUG RETRO RESORT

The Candleers (country), 5pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO. Old Time Jam, 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Julianna Jade (indiesoul), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Emeline Scales (folk, bluegrass, pop), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Blackwater Voodoo (rock, blues, country), 7pm

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

SIERRA NEVADA

BREWING CO.

Leftover Salmon (folk, rock), 5:30pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

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

BROOKLYN INDIE DUO: On Sunday, Oct. 5, Brooklyn-based indie band Daisy the Great performs at Eulogy, starting at 8 p.m. The project of Kelley Dugan and Mina Walker, expect clever songwriting, whimsy and rawness in their live show. Photo courtesy of Christine Mooijer

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Virginia Creeper, Sofia Pace, Nathanael Jordan & Trust Blinks (sludge, alt-country, indie-pop), 8:45pm

THE GREY EAGLE Wheatus (acoustic), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Laura Thurston (Americana, folk), 7pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Heavenly Vipers (jazz, honky-tonk, rock), 6pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

65 North Pickers (bluegrass), 9pm WICKED WEED BREWING

Andy Ferrell (folk, country, Appalachian), 5pm

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

The Vegabonds w/Harvey Steet (rock'n'roll), 9pm

ASHEVILLE YARDS Swifty Dance Party, 7pm

COFFEE, ART, MUSIC

TYPE PLACE

Open Mic, 6pm

CROW & QUILL

DJ Dr. Filth (rock, funk, blues), 9pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Meschiya Lake & The Paradigm Shifters (Americana, country), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Warmones, Quit

Everything & Snake

Snake Whale (punk, indie, hardcore), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Boombox (electronic, rock, soul), 7pm

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

Eggshell Emily (multigenre), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Cactus Kate & the Pricks (country, swing, Americana), 8:30pm

LOBSTER TRAP

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

MAD CO. BREW

HOUSE

The Candleers (country), 6pm

OKLAWAHA

BREWING CO.

Petah Iah & The Mind (reggae, soul, Latin), 8pm

CLUBLAND FREEWILL ASTROLOGY BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In Zen Buddhism, *satoris* are sudden flashes of illumination that are fun and clarifying. I’m happy to tell you that you’re in a phase when these sweet breakthroughs are extra likely to visit you. They may barge in while you’re washing dishes, in the grocery store check-out line, or during your fantasies before sleep. Be on high alert for intimations from the Great Mystery. PS: Some satoris could be gems you already half-knew.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You are eligible to be named “The Most Brilliant and Effective Complainer” for October. If you want to secure this prestigious award, spend time organizing plans for changing what's amiss or awry. Decide which irritating off-kilter situations are most worthy of your thoughtful attention. Figure out how to express your critiques in ways that will engage the constructive help of others. And then implement a detailed strategy to compassionately achieve the intriguing transformations.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): On certain medieval maps, an island paradise known as Hy-Brasil had a fuzzy presence west of Ireland. Did it truly exist? If so, it was said to be a blessed land that could restore lost youth and offer extravagant happiness. The place was thought to be rarely visible, and only under certain magical or auspicious conditions. I suspect you Geminis are within range of an experience like this. It won’t appear in a specific location but as a state of mind that settles over you. Don’t chase it. Allow it to find you.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A stalactite is a stony formation that hangs like an icicle from the ceiling of a cave. It forms over long periods as mineralrich water drips down and incrementally deposits hard calcium carbonate through precipitation. This marvel is an example of earth’s creativity at its most leisurely. A four-inch-long stalactite might take a thousand years to make. With that as your seed thought, Cancerian, I invite you to attune yourself to the slowest, deepest, most ancient parts of your soul. Important developments are unfolding there. A wound that’s ripening into wisdom? A mysterious yearning that’s finally speaking in your native tongue? Be patient and vigilant with it. Don’t demand clarity all at once. Your transformation is tectonic, not flashy. Your assignment is to listen and be receptive.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): When bilingual speakers engage in the behavior known as “code-switching,” they may begin a sentence in one language and finish it in another. Or they may move back and forth between two different languages as they deliver a discourse. Why do they do it? To enrich their meaning, to dazzle their audience, to play and experiment. In a larger sense, we could say that code-switching happens anytime we swivel between different styles of presenting ourselves: from formal to casual, serious to humorous, cheerful to skeptical. I bring this up, Leo, because you are in the heart of the code-switching season. Have fun!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In the Arctic, polar bears move through the world not by sight alone, but through scent trails that stretch miles across the ice. Their sense of direction is olfactory, intuitive, and primal. If I’m reading the omens correctly, Virgo, your navigation system will also be more animal than logical in the coming weeks. I advise you to trust subtle cues—like goosebumps, a sweet or sour taste in your mouth, or an uncanny pull toward or away from things. Your rational mind might not be fully helpful, but your body will know the way. Sniff the trail. Access your instincts.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In ancient Egyptian myth, the goddess Maat ruled truth, divine law, harmony, and moral order. After death, each person's heart was weighed against Maat’s feather of truth on a scale in the Hall of Judgment. If the heart, which embodied the essence of a person's actions in life, was equal in

weight to the feather, the deceased was assessed as virtuous and cleared to continue to the glorious afterlife. If it was heavier . . . well, I’ll spare you the details. Maat’s scales were not symbols of punishment, but of fairness and justice. That’s also your special power right now, Libra. You have subtle insight into every choice. You understand that your wisdom is best used to bless, not censure. My hope is that you will foster gentle clarity and offer forgiveness to all, including yourself. Lay down the old guilt! Let grace be the law!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The *I Ching* is an ancient divinatory book compiled in China over 2,500 years ago, Amazingly, it’s still quite useful. In accordance with astrological omens, I call your attention to one of its oracles: “Work on What Has Been Spoiled.” It tenderly counsels us to be brave as we repair what’s broken. But it’s crucial that we make the correction with patient grace, not blame and anger. The good news, Scorpio, is that you now have an uncanny ability to discern what’s out of tune, what’s crooked, what has been wrongfully abandoned. I hope you will offer your genius for re-weaving. A frayed friendship? A neglected dream? A forgotten promise? You can play the role of restorer: not to make things as they were, but to render them better than they’ve ever been.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In ancient Egypt, the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet wielded both intense heat and nourishing warmth. She had the power to destroy and heal. When outbreaks of chaos threatened, she incinerated them. Once order and balance returned, she served as a physician. I dare you to summon your inner Sekhmet, Sagittarius. Give your bold attention to an obstacle that needs to be crushed or an injustice that needs to be erased. If necessary, invoke sacred rage on behalf of sacred order. But remember that the goal is not merely combustion. It’s transmutation. Once the fire has cleared the way, unleash your gorgeous cure.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In Nepal, there’s a tradition among Sherpa mountaineers. Before ascending Mt. Everest, they perform a ceremony led by a Buddhist monk or Lama. It’s a way to honor the sacredness of the mountain, ask for grace during their climb, and return from the journey in good health. As you eye the peak ahead of you, Capricorn, consider making similar preparation. Ritualize your intention. Direct it with clarity and care. Bless your journey before you surge forward.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When people call something “glamorous,” they usually mean it has an elegant, captivating style. Its beauty is sophisticated and luxurious. But the original meaning of “glamour” was different. It referred to a deceptive magical enchantment designed to disguise the truth, whipped up by a conjurer or supernatural being. That’s the sense I want to invoke now, Aquarius. You have been seeing through the glamour lately—of the media, of consensus reality, of false stories. Now it’s time to go even further: to actively tear down illusions and dismantle pretense, preferably with tact. When you see through the spell, don’t just call it out—transmute it into clarity.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Pisces-born Nina Simone (1933–2003) started playing piano when she was three years old. At age 12, her debut concert was a classical recital. She developed a yearning to become the first Black female classical concert pianist. But her dream collapsed when the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music refused to let her study there. Then came the plot twist. She redirected her disappointment ingeniously, launching a brilliant career as a singer, composer, and pianist that won her global fame. The rebuff from the Curtis Institute was ultimately a stroke of good luck! It became a catalyst for her greatness. In accordance with astrological omens, I invite you to designate a

success.

ONE WORLD

BREWING

Rebecca Daniels (country, bluegrass), 7pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Smooth Goose (funk, country), 9pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

The Asheville Southern Syncopators (honky-tonk, blues, rock), 8pm

REVIVAL

Bridge City Sinners w/Dead on a Sunday & Joshua Quimby (folk, punk, rock), 7pm

SHAKEY'S

• Big Blue Jams Band, 9pm

• Total Gold w/DJ Abu Disarray, 9pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Lactones (psych-rock, funk), 9pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: Echo Chamber (dub), 5:30pm

• Pachyman & Mndsgn (dub, reggae), 9pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

St. Owsley (Jerry Garcia & Grateful Dead Tribute), 4pm

Solar Hearts (folk-pop), 7pm

THE MULE

It’s a Match: Speed Dating/Singles Night, 6pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• 5J Barrow (folk, indie-rock), 6pm

• Dirty Dead (Grateful Dead tribute), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Ashley Gavin (comedy), 6pm

THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN

Mr Jimmy (blues), 5pm

THIRD ROOM

Lee Reynolds w/In Plain Sight (dance, house, techno), 10pm

WICKED WEED

WEST

Stephen Evans (folk, rock), 3pm

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4

ASHEVILLE CLUB

Mr Jimmy (blues), 6pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

The Party of Showgirl:

A TS12 Celebration, 9pm

BATTERY PARK

BOOK EXCHANGE

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

CROW & QUILL

Meschiya Lake & The Moodswingers (jazz), 8pm

EULOGY

Teathyme Takeover: Burnpile After Party (house, disco), 11pm

FLEETWOOD'S Chew, Fantomex & Tanner York (psych, pop), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Sal Landers' Weirdly Woodstock (rock), 6pm

GINGER'S REVENGE

Eyes Up Here Comedy, 7pm

GREEN MAN BREWERY

The Z Man Experience (Ska, funk), 3pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Nobody’s Darling String Band, 4pm

OKLAWAHA

BREWING CO.

• Cody Gentry Trio (Americana), 1pm

• Ten Toe Turbo (rock'n'roll), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Justin Heter Pan (surf, reggae, folk), 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Commander Voodoo (R&B, funk), 9pm

SIERRA NEVADA

BREWING CO.

The Late Shifters (Southern-rock, Americana), 2pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Alex Cameron w/Lion

Country Ferrari (eggpunk, alt-indie), 9pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: Gabe Quinn (folk, country), 3pm

• PILE (indie-rock, post-hardcore), 8pm

THE HOUND

LOUNGE

Hell Hounds: Dark & Dirty Comedy Show, 10pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Truphonic (rock, funk, blues), 6pm

THE ODD Party Foul Drag, 8pm THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Riyen Roots (blues, soul), 6pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Mipso w/Bella White (folk, country), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

IMANU w/GRRL, BK, Joro Dudovski,DLX & MC Reality (bass, D&B), 8:30pm

SUNDAY, OCTOBER

5

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY Open Mic Night, 7pm

EULOGY

Daisy the Great: The Rubber Teeth Talk Tour (indie, pop), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S

The Deviled Eggs & Lucian Zosma (multigenre), 8:30pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa, 3pm

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

Sunday Jazz Jam, 2:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

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

• Traditional Irish Music Session, 3:30pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

• Alma Russ (country, folk, Appalachian), 3pm

• Next Stop Comedy, 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Suns of Stars Sunday Residency (bluegrass), 2pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Pisgah Sunday Jam w/Melissa McKinney, 6:30pm

S & W MARKET

Mr Jimmy (blues), 1pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO. Billingsly (rock'n'roll), 2pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE Open Mic w/Mike Andersen, 6:30pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS Sweet Megg (swing, jazz, blues), 8pm THE GREY EAGLE • Patio: The Two Tracks (Americana, rock), 3pm

• Vision Video w/ Treasvre (post-punk, goth-rock), 8pm THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Queen Bee & The Honeylovers (swing, blues, Latin), 2pm THE ODD

Destroy All Music w/ Jimbo, 1pm THE ORANGE PEEL Peach Pit w/Miya Folick (indie-rock, indie-pop, folk-rock), 8pm VOWL Freshen Up Comedy Open Mic, 7pm

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6

27 CLUB 27 Club Karaoke, 10pm

FLEETWOOD'S Best Ever Karaoke w/ Honey, 9pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Alex Bazemore & Friends (bluegrass), 6pm

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

SHAKEY'S

Live Band Honky Tonk Karaoke, 9pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Hot Seat Comedy w/C.J. Green, 8pm

STATIC AGE

RECORDS

WIFE, Bad Fidelity & Blistering Dissonance (punk, experimental), 8:45pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Songwriters Rolley Derby Showcase (multigenre), 7pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Mr. Jimmy & Friends (Blues), 7pm

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7

ARCHETYPE BREWING

Trivia Tuesdays w/Party Grampa, 6:30pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Eda's Bluegrass Jam, 6:30pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

LOOKOUT BREWING CO.

Team Trivia, 6:30pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

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

SHAKEY'S

Booty Tuesday in The Office, 10pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Open jam, 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE TOPS (alt-indie, rock), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

The Lads AVL (rock, blues), 6pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Early Tuesday Jam, 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Melvins w/Redd Kross (sludge-metal, grunge, alt-rock), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Open Decks, 8pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

White Horse's Open Mic, 7pm

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8

12 BONES

SMOKEHOUSE & BREWING Trivia w/King Trivia, 7pm

ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO.

Wednesday Trivia, 6:30pm

CAMDEN'S COFFEE HOUSE

Open Mic Night, 7pm

ELUVIUM BREWERY

The Candleers (country), 5:30pm

EULOGY

Clay Street Unit w/ Valley Flower (roots, Appalachian, bluegrass), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Safety Coffin w/ Starseer (garage-blues, punk), 9pm

FOOTHILLS GRANGE

Trivia Night, 6:30pm FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers Jamgrass Wednesdays, 6:30pm

GALACTIC PIZZA

Fast Eddie's Trivia, 6:30pm

HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN

TAPROOM

Well-Crafted Music Series: Molly Rose Reed (multi-genre), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO.

Folk Music Showcase, 6pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Dirty Dead 9 Year Anniversary Show (Grateful Dead/Jerry Garcia Band Tribute), 6:30pm

SHAKEY'S

SSIN w/DJ Ragga Massive, 10pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

STATIC AGE

RECORDS

The Rishis, 100 Watt Horse, Ben Asbury & Blake Hornsby (psychrock, folk), 8:45pm

THE GREY EAGLE Jacoozy: Album Release Show (Southern-rock), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

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

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Well-crafted Music Series w/Molly Rose Reed (multi-genre), 6pm

THE MULE Jazz Trio & Wine Wednesdays, 6pm

THE ODD Terraoke Karaoke Takeover, 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Neko Case w/Des Demonas (indie-rock, alt-country, garagepunk), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Disclaimer Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 9:30pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Open Mic Night, 6pm

URBAN ORCHARD Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

• Irish Session, 5pm

• White Horse Bad Ass Blues Jam, 7:30pm

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9

ANTIDOTE

COCKTAIL LOUNGE AT CHEMIST

Antidote Comedy w/ Secret Headliner, 7pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

High Fade (funk, disco), 8pm

CROW & QUILL

Firecracker Jazz Band (jazz), 8pm

EULOGY Panzerfaust w/ Groza, All Hell & Widowed Light (black metal, punk), 7pm

FLEETWOOD'S Tiger Eye, We have Ignition & Why Why? (indie, surf-rock, psych), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

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

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

Books & Brews Trivia, 6pm GREEN MAN BREWERY

Thursday Night Trivia, 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Detective Blind (indie-rock), 7pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

The Greenliners (bluegrass, Appalachian, Americana), 7pm

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

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Django Jazz Jam, 7pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

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

THE GREY EAGLE

• Patio: Jodi John & Todd Hoke (alt-indie), 5:30pm

• The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band (blues), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

All Female Singer-Songwriter Night, 7pm

THE MULE Latin Night w/WAILERÎ, 6:30am

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Justin Heter Pan w/

CC Rider (surf, reggae, psych-rock), 7pm

• Dark Moon Hollow (bluegrass), 10pm TWIN WILLOWS

The Candleers (country), 5pm

WICKED WEED BREWING

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

MARKETPLACE

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

LEGALS

BIRTH

ANNOUNCEMENT

LET IT BE KNOWN TO ALL PEOPLE OF UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

This is public notice and affirmation that a baby girl has been born on the land in a mortal body to the DeBaun family. The family welcomed their baby earthside on the land of the geographical location commonly known as [Asheville, North Carolina Republic, United States of America] North America on the 15th day of March in the calendar year 2025 AD. She is happy, healthy and thriving!

Publication: September 17, 2025

Publisher: Mountain Xpress

OTHER

PUBLIC SALE OF VEHICLE

To satisfy a lien for: a 1988 Prowler Camping Trailer against Norman Glenn Harrill and Berry Blalock Harrill for $10,625.00; a 1994 Jaguar against Scott Bron Turbyfill for $7725.00; a 2002 Ford against Rapid Service Inc for $5365.00; a 2005 Maserati against Charles Michael Hurt for $6495.00; a 2005 Dodge against David Jacob Daveport for $5605.00; a 2006 Subaru against Vicky Suzette Shah and Tiffany Nicole Penaloza for $7645; a 2014 Dodge against Derek Anthony Morris for $6125.00; a 2014 Mazda against Taylor Jayde Gibson for $5445.00; a 2014 Hyundai against Perriysh Lataezia Edgerton and State Employees Credit Union for $6725.00; a 2016 Ford against Suzanne Spivey Hartwell and Ally Financial for $6325.00; a 2016 BMW against Carvana LLC for $6885.00; 2020 Toyota against Brian Phillip Hudgins Jr and Regional Acceptance Corp for $5685.00. Auto Safe Towing Inc., 474 ½ N. Louisiana Ave., Asheville NC 28806. 828-236-1131

Publication: October 1, 2025

Publisher: Mountain Xpress

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REAL ESTATE SERVICES

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RENTALS

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR RENT First floor of house in quiet, safe, private neighborhood East of Asheville. 1b/1b, one person only. Shared washer/dryer. $850/month for rent, $45 for utilities + Wi-Fi. 1st & last rent due at signing. References req. (828) 545-0043

EMPLOYMENT

DRIVERS/ DELIVERY

MOUNTAIN XPRESS

DELIVERY Mountain Xpress is seeking energetic, reliable, independent contractors for part-time weekly newspaper delivery. Contractors must have a safe driving record, a reliable vehicle with proper insurance and registration, and be able to lift 50 lbs. without strain. Distribution of papers is on Tuesday mornings and afternoons and typically lasts about 3-5 hours per week. E-mail distro@mountainx.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

ELECTRICIAN

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833423-2924. (AAN CAN)

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ACROSS

1 It might be rigged

5 Genre for Blackpink or BTS

9 N.B.A. or M.L.B. V.I.P.s 12 “No way!”

13 ___ Sea, shrinking body of water that was once the world’s third-largest lake

14 Rock’s ___ Maiden

15 Wildlife that may nest on Hawaiian golf courses 16 Bag with handles 17 Some absurdist art 18 “Anything sounds good to me”

21 Poke bowl fish

22 “I’m so great!”

23 Basic couturier offering

27 Highs ... that could appear four more times in this puzzle

28 Arthur who was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom

29 “Same here”

31 Letters on some moisturizer bottles

34 Philosophy followed by Benjamin Franklin

36 Rascals

37 “Reputation” or “Midnights,” for Taylor Swift

38 It’s how the story goes

39 Ctrl+Z

41 Talking point

43 Expression of disapproval

65 Latin “Behold!”

66 All over

67 Govt. group with cryptologists on staff

68 Goes on and on and on ...

69 Screw them!

1 S.F. transit option

2 “I’m standing right here, you know!”

3 One end of the day

4 Sister goddesses who personify destiny

One aspect to consider in making a decision

Who often brushes dirt off home plate

“Come on, help me out”

Buttery confections

Some computers and televisions

“___ Canto” (Ann Patchett novel)

Once more

Lows ... that could appear four more times in this puzzle

Roman goddess of fertility

One tool for scrolling on a computer

Quechua speaker

Prominent feature of an alpaca

44 Exhausted

46 State of confusion

47 Gary Oldman or Ian McKellen, e.g.

48 Devour

50 Extra

53 Ticket seller’s take

54 Failing epically

61 Not at home

62 Foundation for a proposal?

63 Diving position with bent hips and straight legs

64 The Prancing Pony and the Admiral Benbow are fictional ones

5 Hurricane that’s the subject of the 2006 documentary “When the Levees Broke”

6 Vessel’s front 7 Statement in a courtroom

8 Statement in a courtroom 9 Contents of some boats 10 Router hookup 11 Trap 14 Creatives may jot them in a notebook 19 “What

Little

Scraped (out)