Mountain Xpress 11.26.25

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Remembering Andrea Clark, who documented Black Asheville’s history news tips & story ideas to NEWS@MOUNTAINX.COM letters/commentary

Asheville

HOLIDAY

Poppy pops up in Biltmore

TRAILS TO YOU

The Pisgah Conservancy, a nonprofit that works in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and other outdoor recreation groups, recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary. Over the past decade, the organzation has cleared invasive species from Pisgah National Forest, maintained its trails and implemented additional projects that elevate the forest’s landscape. In this week’s issue, some of its members discuss the milestone as well as ways that residents can get involved.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR: Jeff Fobes

ASSISTANT PUBLISHER: Susan Hutchinson

MANAGING EDITOR: Thomas Calder

EDITOR: Gina Smith

OPINION EDITOR: Tracy Rose

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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR & CLUBLAND: Braulio Pescador-Martinez

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHER: Caleb Johnson

ADVERTISING, ART & DESIGN MANAGER: Susan Hutchinson

LEAD DESIGNER: Scott Southwick

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Tina Gaafary, Caleb Johnson, Olivia Urban

MARKETING ASSOCIATES: Emily Baughman, Sara Brecht, Dave Gayler

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

BOOKKEEPER: Amie Fowler

OFFICE MANAGER: Mark Murphy

FRONT

Mobility for the many, not just the few

Asheville is at a critical crossroads for its public transit system, and the choice between a coverage model and a ridership model will shape our city for decades. These terms sound technical, but the distinction is simple: Coverage spreads thin service to as many places as possible, resulting in long waits and unreliable buses; ridership concentrates service where the most people live, work and travel, delivering frequent, dependable buses that people can actually use. One model maximizes a map. The other maximizes mobility.

A coverage-first approach is a vote for the status quo — and for permanently low performance. A bus that comes every 30 or 60 minutes is not a real mobility option for most people. It preserves access for a small number of current riders while locking out the far larger group of potential riders who cannot depend on such infrequent service.

Worse, this model harms the very people our transit system should serve most. By stretching service so thin, it denies fast and reliable access to low-income households and zero-car families concentrated in Asheville’s core. It isolates them from jobs, education and essential services.

A ridership-focused network, by contrast, opens doors. A bus every 15 minutes is transformative. It means a parent in Pisgah View Apartments can reliably reach a better-paying job across town. It means a veteran can get to the VA Medical Center without a two-hour ordeal. This isn’t abstract planning — it is about connecting people to opportunity.

High-frequency transit is a city-shaping tool, the backbone of a walkable, connected Asheville. Coverage spreads little bits of mobility to many; frequency delivers real mobility to thousands.

The Multimodal Transportation Commission urged Asheville City Council to “lean toward ridership,” and their vote clearly favored a more frequent, effective system. Frequency

Word of the week

griot (n.)

any of a class of musician-entertainers of western Africa whose performances include tribal histories and genealogies

We were unfamiliar with this week’s word until reading Aisha Adams’ moving tribute to her late friend, the historian and artist Andrea Clark. You can read Adams’ piece on Page 8. X

is freedom — the freedom to trust transit, to skip the schedule, to build a life around reliable mobility. Asheville should choose real freedom for the many, not symbolic service for the few.

— Vaidila Satvika Asheville

Editor’s note: The writer works for the City of Asheville but notes that he is expressing his opinion as a private citizen.

Woodfin is worth a second look

[Regarding, “‘Where is Woodfin?’ Ask a Stupid Question, Get Intelligent Answers,” Nov. 5, Xpress:]

Edwin Arnaudin’s article highlights what is missing in Woodfin, but he didn’t say what you’ll miss if you don’t visit Woodfin. Yes, it’s true that it’s hard to find the town’s borders. But within those borders, you’ll find many small, local businesses that offer a surprising array of services and products. And all offer free, easy parking.

Like affordable dining? There are so many good, casual dining places here. We have barbecue, a deli, sandwich shops, burger joints, breweries, coffee shops, an ice cream parlor and a sports bar, as well as ethnic restaurants that serve Italian,

Editor’s note

As part of our Fall Nonprofit Issue, Xpress reached out to a number of local organizations for updates on their missions and future plans. The “Whatever it takes” series is available in this week’s issue. X

Greek, Chinese, Thai, Guatemalan and Mexican fare. We even have a five-star bistro in Reynolds Village. Most serve lunch. And there are local food producers that offer specialty items like small-batch kimchi and traditionally made tortillas. But it doesn’t stop at food. Businesses here provide you with a wide range of services and amenities. You’ll find boutique lodging, luxury personal care, art studios, Pilates, yoga, a YMCA, a riverside park, markets with local produce and artisan products, knife sharpeners, a wine importer, fabric shops, medical providers, gardening stores, dog groomers, handcrafted upholstery, florists, caterers, hair salons and professional bra fitting where women cross state lines just to shop there. And if you’re looking for a weekend getaway, you can spend the night in a spaceship with a view. Google ThisIsWoodfin.com to see a list of some of Woodfin’s businesses.

Where are these places? Next time you’re driving through to the next town, slow down a bit and check out The Mill at Riverside and Reynolds Village, as well as the single buildings and mini-malls along the main routes. Woodfin has much to offer. And once Taylor’s Wave, a worldclass kayaking and surfing experience, opens this coming spring, it will only improve for years to come.

Many people enjoy our town’s amenities without realizing they are in Woodfin. I invite writer Edwin Arnaudin to join me for a tour to see what he missed. Woodfin is worth a second look.

—

John Kerr President, Woodfin Business Association Woodfin

The third time’s the charm?

[Regarding “Mission Hospital Placed in Immediate Jeopardy; Sanction Is Third Since Sale to HCA,” Oct. 24, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress:]

I congratulate the forces that have brought about this latest sanction against Mission Hospital. For the third time, there have been enough instances of inadequate care that cannot be ignored.

So, another set of responses to address the problems, which will be hailed as a solution. Then in my opinion, it will be back to business as usual: awaiting the next series of putting people’s lives in jeopardy and profits over people.

How many will need to die and/ or receive substandard care before action is taken against Mission that actually results in real, permanent change?

— Linda Classon Arden

Republicans need to rethink their priorities

[Regarding “It’s Democrats’ Turn to Do Their Job,” Nov. 12, Xpress:]

There are almost 1.5 million people in North Carolina on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), with our region being served by MANNA FoodBank to almost 200,000 per month through it and its sister agencies. We are hurting.

Yes, U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards voted to fund SNAP and WIC (the nutrition program for women, infants and children) but went silent when his party decided to vacate Washington because funding health care was just too much.

He mentions the Dems voted 14 times (to open discussions about funding health care) but conveniently skirted the Republican stance of “We are not going to entertain a bipartisan stance” — effectively shutting down the government and causing not only food insecurity but sticker shock on Affordable Care Act premiums.

So he thinks the Dems need to “put the American people first”? Wow, is he out of touch with reality? I did not see the Dems running to the Supreme Court to stop SNAP funding — no, that unbelievable cruelty is on him and his fellow Republicans. People in glass houses need to rethink their priorities and start working for the American people.

— Larry Layton Candler X

CARTOON BY RANDY MOLTON

WHATEVER IT TAKES

‘Care and second chances for animals in need’

Caroline Dougherty is the senior manager of communications and marketing for Asheville Humane Society, a nonprofit, no-kill shelter and adoption center for pets, that also offers dog training, neutering and vaccinations

Xpress: What is your organization’s most urgent need at this time, and how can community members provide assistance, financially or otherwise?

Dougherty: Our most urgent need right now is support for our annual giving season, which includes Giving Tuesday, Dec. 2, and our end-of-year campaign running through Wednesday, Dec. 31. These funds are essential to help us continue providing the highest level of care to every animal, both those currently in our care and those we’ll welcome in the future. Financial contributions make the biggest impact for the animals, but there are many other ways to help. We’re always looking for community members to join our foster and volunteer network, donate supplies or help spread the word about our mission. Every bit of support helps us give animals the safe, loving homes they deserve. What is a recent accomplishment within your organization that you’d like more community members to know about. How, if at all, will this achievement impact local residents?

Over the past year, as the number of animals in our care grew after the impact of [Tropical Storm] Helene, our shelter reached capacity with pets waiting for their new homes. Thanks to the community’s amazing response to our adoption campaigns, we were able to double the number of adoptions in September 2025 compared to the prestorm numbers of September 2024. This impact represents countless animals finding safety, love and medical care they might never have received otherwise.

Are there any upcoming initiatives within your organization that you can tell our readers about and how they can get involved?

We’re gearing up for Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2, and we’re excited to share inspiring stories from the past year that highlight the incredible impact our community has made. It’s a perfect time for supporters to give back and help us continue providing care and second chances for animals in need. Over the next few months, we’ll also be partnering with many local businesses for events that will benefit our mission, whether it’s by proceeds donated or visibility for our adoptable animals. We invite everyone to join in, attend an event, spread the word or support a participating business to help make a difference. X

CAROLINE DOUGHERTY

Bearing witness

Remembering Andrea Clark, who documented Black Asheville’s history

BY AISHA ADAMS

One thing I loved about Andrea Clark was her hugs. They felt like rest. She held you just long enough for your breath to settle back into your body. Her humor worked the same way: warm, witty and grounded in quiet knowing. Andrea had a way of settling you into a room, into a moment and into a legacy. Her grandfather James Vester Miller was a master brickmason who built homes, churches and public buildings across Asheville. He laid his legacy in brick. In 2020, Andrea honored that legacy by creating the James Vester Miller Historic Walking Trail with support from CoThinkk, a local giving circle that invests in area communities of color. She later partnered with UNC Asheville and Explore Asheville to help bring the project to life. For Andrea, understanding what her grandfather built and for whom he built it affirmed her sense of belonging in Asheville, even though she was born in Massachusetts. She made sure others felt like they belonged, too.

COLOR AND WISDOM

Andrea was best known for her photography, but her artistry moved across mediums. She wove baskets at the YMI Cultural Center, wrote plays and told stories like a seasoned griot. Her accounts of summers on Martha’s Vineyard were rich with color and wisdom. She’d drop one detail that made you laugh from your gut, then pause just long enough for the lesson to land. Some mornings, she’d call before the day had even begun.

“I love what you’re doing,” she said once. “Interviewing folks, being cute, but stop fidgeting on camera. People won’t trust you if you move like a weasel.”

I still hear her voice every time I sit down to record.

SPACE FOR UNDERSTANDING

I never met my in-laws. They were gone before I entered my husband’s life. But Andrea had known them. She checked in on us, celebrated our wins and, when guidance was needed, offered it with a calm certainty that felt like care, not judgment.

Asheville can be difficult to navigate if you’re Black without legacy ties. Andrea knew my husband’s people, and her memory held parts of our history I didn’t even know I was missing. Through her stories, I learned how they traveled to the National Black Theatre Festival, how Bill knew jazz like Scripture and how Evelyn loved her sons with deliberate tenderness.

One afternoon, as we sat in her living room, Andrea told me about the year their youngest son, Hassani, passed away. She didn’t tiptoe around the grief. She spoke plainly about how loss reshapes a family and how it settles in the bones. She said she could never tell whether Evelyn died from illness or from heartbreak. Mom. Dad. A baby brother. All gone.

Andrea’s memories didn’t reopen wounds. They created space for understanding. She helped me know the man I love and the family I had stepped into. My sense of belonging followed.

After one of her hospital stays, we brought her a signed Betty Carter album. She was on bed rest, but still herself, holding court from her parlor. She laughed, remembering how my father-in-law once followed Carter around, trying to get her attention. When her laughter turned into coughing, the home health aide peeked in. Andrea waved her off. After a quiet pause, she said, “You know, I’m glad he found you. You’re good for him. The two of you belong together.”

I hadn’t known I needed to hear it, but I did.

That was Andrea. Tender. Insightful. Always documenting not just our hearts, but our history.

CAPTURING OUR LIVES

Andrea didn’t just share warmth. She bore witness. Her lens confirmed

KEEPER: In this 2021 photo, Andrea Clark appears outside Varick Chapel AME Zion Church, one of many Asheville structures built by her grandfather James Vester Miller.

our existence. Urban renewal stripped Black communities of homes, churches and businesses. But Andrea took thousands of photographs, archiving who lived here, how they lived and what was taken. Her images aren’t just beautiful. They are evidence.

Her collection now lives at Buncombe County Special Collections at Pack Memorial Library. In 2020, the Historic Resources Commission of Asheville & Buncombe County sought to honor Andrea with the Sondley Award, named after Foster A. Sondley, whose

will bequeathed his extensive personal library to the City of Asheville in 1931 — but whose terms restricted access to “well conducted white people.” Andrea made it clear she would not accept the award unless the name changed. She opened a conversation, and the award was renamed the Historic Resources Champion Award. That was Andrea, correcting the narrative and claiming space for those long excluded.

I remember the night last year that her photography exhibition opened at the Asheville Museum of History, where she served on the board of trustees. Andrea sat at the center of the courtyard, her locs wrapped high like a crown, gold earrings catching the light, her African attire flowing with ease. She carried a purple bag I’d once given her, a quiet nod just for me. That evening, she had my husband, Raf, play jazz. The music rose between photographs and memory. Andrea smiled and swayed gently in her seat, as if the rhythm were dancing in her bones. Laughter moved through the air, confident and layered.

I didn’t realize goodbye would come so soon.

She captured Asheville’s erased stories so they would not be buried again. Andrea passed on Oct. 29, but what she preserved lives on in all of us. She mothered me — and this city — into memory.

Aisha Adams is the author of This Is What Made Me, her debut memoir on healing, systems and survival. Find out more at AishaJohnsonAdams.com. X

AISHA ADAMS

Photo by Andrea Clark

MEMORY

Photo by Will Hornaday

Winning shot

Asheville nets 10 more years of SoCon basketball tournaments

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

jmcguire@mountainx.com

The Southern Conference (SoCon) has renewed its deal with Asheville, guaranteeing that the city will host the league’s basketball tournaments for 10 more years and further cementing one of its longest-running sports relationships.

The announcement came Nov. 19 at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville, where local leaders and conference officials emphasized stability, community involvement and the economic impact of the men’s and women’s Basketball Championships, which are played at the arena each March.

“Pound for pound, this is the best college basketball tournament in America,” said Chris Smith, executive director of the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, which has been the event’s host since the SoCon returned to the arena in 2012 after a 17-year absence. “There are bigger tournaments and bigger cities, but nobody does it the way Asheville does — the community buys in, and it shows.”

Smith pointed to the downtown setting, the walkability, the volunteer turnout and the way visiting fans often return year after year. “We weren’t going to let it leave on our watch,” he added.

SoCon Commissioner Michael Cross said the extension, which runs through 2035, stands out at a time of rapid shifts across college sports.

“When you look across the landscape — the conference realignments, the venue changes — what we have here in Asheville stands in contrast.

We felt it was important to provide a decade of certainty, commitment and shared purpose.”

Cross credits the city, Explore Asheville, the sports commission and Harrah’s Cherokee Center for creating a reliable championship environment not just for basketball but for volleyball and wrestling as well.

The SoCon Volleyball Championship, which was set to make its Asheville debut last year but was moved after Tropical Storm Helene, was played Nov. 20-Nov. 23 at the arena.

City Council member Maggie Ullman said the partnership shows how public and private groups can work together to strengthen community assets. “[The City of Asheville] has contributed $22 million to this facility to make sure this public asset is up to snuff,” she said.

She added that she attends the tournaments annually with her 11-year-old daughter and 84-year-old mother-in-law, praising the event for being affordable and family friendly.

Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (TDA), said additional events planned for championship week — including the SoCon Hall of Fame induction ceremony and the SoCon Business Leaders Forum — reflect the depth of local commitment to the league.

Explore Asheville, which organized the press conference, has been a key sponsor and financial backer for the SoCon championships since they came back to Asheville 13 years ago. The men’s basketball tournament took place in Asheville from 1984-95.

IN OTHER NEWS

At the TDA’s Nov. 19 board meeting, Isley announced the state had approved up to $3.17 million to support the Biltmore Championship in Asheville, a new PGA golf event scheduled to debut next September as part of the FedExCup Fall series. The tournament, announced Nov. 10, will be played under a four-year agreement at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, a course designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. The event marks the PGA’s return to Asheville after more than 80 years. The city previously hosted the Asheville Land of the Sky Open, which ran as an official tour event from 1939-42. The Biltmore Championship will be Asheville’s seventh all-time tour event, bringing more than 100 golfers, thousands of spectators and millions in local spending, Isley said. The $3.17 million grant is part of the state’s effort to attract major events that drive tourism and economic activity.

EXTENSION: The Southern Conference has signed an agreement extending Asheville’s role as host of its Basketball Championships through 2035. “We take pride in this tournament,” Chris Smith, executive director of the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, said at a press conference announcing the deal. Photo by Justin McGuire

Asheville city manager receives the state’s highest civilian honor

There was hardly an open seat at Asheville City Council’s Nov. 18 meeting. Residents filed in for public comment on issues concerning immigration enforcement as well as an amendment to the Meadows at Haw Creek, a planned housing development on New Haw Creek Road.

The meeting doubled as the swan song for City Manager Debra Campbell, who retires next month. Campbell was appointed city manager in December 2018. During her term she led the city through the COVID-19 pandemic and Tropical Storm Helene.

At the meeting, Campbell received the state’s highest civilian award, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, from Gov. Josh Stein’s office. A proclamation in Campbell’s honor noted her “grace, intellect and grit.”

Mayor Esther Manheimer declared Nov. 18 as Debra D. Campbell Day and gave the city manager a framed proclamation.

“Debra has served the community with distinction, serving in numerous public appointments and offices, consistently demonstrating her constant drive to build a community that better serves all of our residents,” Manheimer said.

Immigration enforcement statement

Amid lingering community concerns about possible U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations in Western North Carolina, Manheimer read aloud a joint statement from Asheville City Council and the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners.

“We stand with all residents who simply want to go about their lives

and contribute to our community,” Manheimer read. “We are committed to following the law and protecting the rights and dignity of everyone who calls Asheville and Buncombe County home.”

Six public commenters voiced support for a resolution blocking immigration enforcement on city-owned property, which was initially proposed by Council member Kim Roney at a press conference at Land of Sky United Church of Christ on Nov. 17.

Vice Mayor Antanette Mosley noted her communication with representatives of the Latino community and faithbased leaders. “Perhaps [the resolution is] one we can pick up at a further date, but at this time [Latino residents] had concerns about moving in a way that could potentially cause more risk than originally anticipated,” Mosley said.

Controversial vote on Meadows at Haw Creek

Council voted 6-1, opposing an amendment to the Meadows at Haw Creek development, 767 New Haw Creek Road. The revised proposal introduced new roadways, including a bridge that would match or exceed the 100-year floodplain base flood. Council member Sage Turner was the lone vote in favor of the amendment.

The development plans for 49 new single-family homes and 35 townhomes on a little more than 27 acres.

After the meeting, in an email exchange with Xpress, Sam StarrBaum, an urban planner with the City of Asheville who presented the amendment to Council, stated that the development team has additional options, including appealing the city staff determinations regarding the application as well as Council’s decision.

Additionally, Starr-Baum noted that the applicant team can choose to build elements of the Meadows at New Haw Creek, such as the townhomes on the western portion while figuring out access to the eastern half. A rezoning back to RS-4 to develop 49 single-family residences is also a possibility, StarrBaum said.

Twenty commenters spoke during the public hearing. The majority were residents from Haw Creek who opposed the amendment.

Long-Term Recovery Plan adopted

The City of Asheville adopted a Long-Term Recovery Plan, which will inform the public of recovery priorities and help the City of Asheville focus its work and prioritize projects. The plan’s 114 projects were established in partnership with Buncombe County, all six municipalities within the county and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The city’s 31 specific projects were selected based on City Council

vision, priorities and goals for recovery as well as community input, previously adopted planning efforts and the city’s organizational workplan priorities.

Planning and Zoning commission changes

Council voted, 5-2, to remove Jared Wheatley from the Asheville Planning and Zoning Commission. Mosley and Roney were the two opposing votes. Wheatley served on the commission for two years, and, according to an internal city memo mentioned at the meeting, was removed due to hostility at public meetings.

Two public commenters opposed the decision, noting Wheatley’s position as the only Indigenous person to be appointed to the board. Wheatley also spoke, highlighting his accomplishments and thanking Council for the opportunity to serve.

Council appointed Lindsey Broughel to the Planning and Zoning Commission and will advertise for Wheatley’s vacant seat.

Funding updates for urgent needs

Council heard an update on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) projects and funding. The City of Asheville received the federal grant funding four years ago, in response to COVID-19. Currently, 94.1% of the funds have been spent. The remainder must be used by the end of 2026. The majority of the funds have gone toward shelters and affordable housing projects.

Public engagement on riverfront properties

There will be multiple opportunities for public input on the city’s riverfront projects. The engagement is focused on Azalea Parks and Infrastructure Recovery as well as French Broad Riverfront Parks Recovery. Design work has begun on both projects, and the first round of engagement will start later this year.

This story was supported by the Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing.

— Brionna Dallara  X

RECOGNITION: City Manager Debra Campbell received multiple honors at the Nov. 18 Asheville City Council meeting. Campbell, center, is set to retire next month. Photo by Brionna Dallara

Commission adopts Helene Recovery Plan

The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners adopted a 205-page Helene Recovery Plan at its Nov. 18 meeting.

The plan includes 114 projects throughout Buncombe County and its six municipalities: Asheville, Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Montreat, Weaverville and Woodfin. The county received input from 2,622 community members through its Envision Buncombe program to guide the plan.

“Here we are 14 months later, which feels like a short time to accomplish such a significant recovery plan that we’re here to approve this evening,” said Commission Chair Amanda Edwards County government is responsible for 31 of the projects, the majority of which address public safety, followed by growth and development and community health.

Speaking to the Commission, Buncombe County Helene Recovery Officer Kevin Madsen itemized some of the projects, which include restoration of parks; landslide mitigation; supporting local food systems; the oral history project Come Hell or High Water; an emergency shelter facility; stream gauges for hazard monitoring; and sewer extension and septic mitigation.

The 31 projects have 136 subprojects “but that number is expected to fluctuate,” Madsen said. Some subprojects are underway, such as the restoration of sidewalks in Swannanoa and the restoration and rebuilding of Charles D. Owen Park.

Commissioner Drew Ball asked about progress updates. “This is a lot of work that’s going to have to happen. How are we going to track this?”

Madsen replied that the county is building out an implementation strategy, and it, along with municipal partners, will finalize funding in the coming months. These will include funding from

NEXT STEPS: Buncombe County Helene Recovery Officer Kevin Madsen advocated for approval of the Helene Recovery Plan at the Nov. 18 Buncombe County Board of Commissioners meeting. Screen grab courtesy of Buncombe County

the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), state disaster recovery funds and grants. “That’ll be our big push in December,” Madsen said.

Hominy River Park repair

The Commission approved nearly $159,000 contract with the Raleigh-based engineering firm John R. McAdams Company for repairing the Hominy River Park. (The French Broad River and Hominy Creek flooded the park during Tropical Storm Helene.) The first phase of repair will stabilize the riverbank and provide designs for the park, and it is expected to be completed by July. The second phase will involve construction. According to the

presentation by Parks and Recreation Manager Joseph Guseman, funding will come from FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, which provides grants to local governments after a disaster.

Passive recreation approved

The Commission approved over $3.6 million for six recreation projects proposed by the Passive Recreation Lands Subcommittee: Haw Creek Park Greenway; Gateway Park; Hominy Creek Greenway; public access lands at Warren Wilson College; Riverside Park; and Worx Community Forest Trail development. The projects will be supported by general obligation bonds passed by voters in 2022.

ICE policy statement

At the conclusion of the Board of Commissioners briefing, which takes place before the Commission meeting, Edwards read a joint statement from the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners and Asheville City Council about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The agency arrived in Charlotte on Nov. 15 and has made over 100 arrests.

“The Asheville Police Department and Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office do not participate in ICE or CBP [U.S. Customs and Border Protection] operations and are not involved in federal immigration enforcement activities,” Edwards read. “We know many people want to speak out and make their voices heard. That is your right. We ask that as a community, we do so peacefully.”

This story was supported by the Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing

— Jessica Wakeman  X

Happy trails to you

The Pisgah Conservancy marks 10 years of mending pathways, fighting invasive species and more

BY BRIONNA DALLARA

bdallara@mountainx.com

As a child, John Cottingham grew up going to Pisgah National Forest. He spent summers working at Camp Pinnacle in Flat Rock with his father. Meanwhile, some of his fondest family memories involved picnics on the Blue Ridge Parkway, where he would peer down onto Looking Glass Rock — one of his favorite places to wade through the water.

As an adult, he continued to take annual camping trips to Pisgah with friends and fellow former camp counselors. During this decadeslong tradition, Cottingham observed the degradation of some of the area’s trails.

In the 2010s, after he retired from his law practice in California, Cottingham returned to the mountains to contribute to the forest that provided so many cherished memories. His initial plan was a simple financial contribution. But when he approached the Pisgah Ranger Station, he discovered there was no venue to do so.

Ultimately, this led to the formation of The Pisgah Conservancy (TPC), a nonprofit that works in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to provide key resources for the benefit of Pisgah and its visitors. Last month, the organization celebrated its 10-year anniversary.

A host of the conservancy’s outdoor recreation partners celebrated the milestone as well. Partners, including FIND Outdoors, Carolina Mountain Club, Trout Unlimited, the International Mountain Bikers Association, Pisgah Area SORBA, and Back Country Horsemen of Pisgah all had representatives on TPC’s initial advisory council and continue to collaborate with the nonprofit on projects.

TPC fills in the gaps for smaller projects such as trail and invasive species management, while also raising money for larger projects such as bridge repairs, which other groups don’t have the resources for.

“We do projects like relocating a trail or building a bridge over a river where one is washed out or has never been, and that takes fundraising, takes working with the Forest Service over a period of time to get the right permits,” Cottingham, who serves as TPC’s executive director, says. “We felt from the outset that there was a space where we could add value without interfering with the work that others had been doing.”

DIFFERENT AGENCIES AND PURPOSES

Since 2020, Jeff Maitz, a trail specialist with TPC, has operated out of the USFS Pisgah Ranger Station, where

he uses different mapping and communication tools to guide TPC field crews.

TPC has three main divisions: a trail crew; an invasive plant management team; and its seasonal Pisgah River Rangers program, which works with college-age students on watershed stewardship.

As a national forest, Maitz notes, Pisgah’s resources are not as abundant as national park sites — a fact that most of the public is unaware of, he says. The National Park Service prioritizes preservation as well as natural and historic resources, he notes. The Forest Service, which oversees national forests such as Pisgah, manages conservation efforts as well as commercial uses.

Because of the different agencies and purposes, there tends to be more staffing at national parks, Maitz continues. He points to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as one example. “They have dozens and dozens of trail crew employees, both seasonal and some permanent,” he says. “And that’s just something that the Forest Service doesn’t have. ... They need to depend a lot more on volunteers and partnerships like The Pisgah Conservancy.”

PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS

Much of that support comes from TPC-led initiatives. In 2018, the non-

profit launched its specialty license plate program. That first year, the program raised a little over $12,000. Today, this has climbed to around $80,000 per year.

Group members have also conducted a number of impactful projects, often in collaboration with local businesses, other nonprofit groups and the USFS — from extending trails to reclaiming former illegal dumpsites to enhancing habitats for native species.

More recently, in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, the conservancy has been repairing trails, bridges and addressing other needs.

Currently, one of its top priorities is the Avery Creek Trail Improvements and Stream Restoration project. That work includes construction of a new 36-foot-long trail bridge and trail turnpike, decommissioning a section of the trail that is harmful to the creek and restoration of the stream bank.

“The Pisgah Ranger District had its damage. But probably for us, the most concentrated area of damage is the South Mills River area,” Maitz says. “We also had infrastructure damage from Tropical Storm Fred, four years ago, before Helene, that had knocked out a lot of things kind of down in there.”

HELPING OUT

One of the best ways to get involved is helping on Pisgah Project Day, the conservancy’s biggest volunteer workday, Cottingham says. Each spring, hundreds of community volunteers join forces with TPC, event sponsors and partners, and the USFS to complete dozens of improvement projects throughout the Pisgah Ranger District. Next year’s Pisgah Project Day will take place on Saturday, April 25. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to help out, Cottingham says.

“We have work projects that specifically can be done by little kids or people who aren’t particularly strong or nimble. And we have other projects that require a lot of muscle and sweat, so we try to be as inclusive as we can in those,” Cottingham says.

At the first Pisgah Project Day in 2016, Cottingham recalls an interaction with a woman in her 80s who pulled him to the side and told him how much she appreciated the opportunity to give back to Pisgah. She said she had been coming to Pisgah her whole life and was thrilled to be planting red spruce trees that will be there for generations to come.

“To me that’s exactly what we’re trying to provide. Giving those opportunities to people so that they can help take care of this public land that they love so much,” Cottingham says.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f7g X

BRIDGING THE GAPS: Through donors and partnerships, The Pisgah Conservancy raises money for larger projects like bridge repairs. Photo by Ricardo Tejeda

From the ground up

Nonprofit farms work to feed and heal WNC communities

BY ANABEL SHENK

anabelcshenk@gmail.com

When Sedona Lewis arrived at Root Cause Farm the morning after Tropical Storm Helene, the power was out, roads were blocked and cell service was spotty. She was shocked to find minimal crop damage but was even more surprised to see people — neighbors, volunteers, friends and strangers — turning up to help.

“People just came,” Lewis says. “They were walking up the driveway, driving up, showing up and saying, ‘How can I help? What are we doing?’ It was the most potent reminder that this is a place people turn to in times of crisis.”

Root Cause Farm — originally named The Lord’s Acre — started in Fairview in 2009 on about a half acre of borrowed land after a group of local community members noticed a lack of fresh produce at the Food for Fairview food pantry. Now, the farm grows more than 6 tons of fresh, organic vegetables and fruit annually on 1 acre on Joe Jenkins Road. The grassroots operation is highly dependent on volunteers, most of whom come from the Fairview community.

Root Cause continues to provide the Food for Fairview pantry with produce and distributes its harvest for free at Share Markets, which take place on the farm every Tuesday during growing season. Since Helene, the number of households that Root Cause serves each week has doubled from 60-70 to as many as 140. The farm has increased production to meet this need and partners with Black Mountain-based nonprofit Bounty & Soul to supplement produce.

Lewis, Root Cause’s director of fundraising and communications, explains that asking for help in feeding yourself and your family can feel uncomfortable, but the farm’s welcoming outdoor space helps remove some of that stigma. “It’s a really beautiful way to receive people that are existing in that state of crisis,” she says.

FOOD FOR ALL

Root Cause joins other Western North Carolina nonprofit farms in addressing nourishment holistically, feeding physical, social and emotional hunger through a variety of programs and approaches. Community members benefit from the fresh food the farms

Nonprofit Feature Fall

HIGHER GROUND: Root Cause Farm’s manager, Jon McNair, left, and director of fundraising and communications, Sedona Lewis, right, are pictured in a field at the Fairview nonprofit, which distributes its harvest at no charge to the local community. Photo courtesy of Root Cause

produce, as well as from opportunities to engage in movement, learning and connection to the land.

At Root Cause, service learning groups and weekly drop-in volunteer hours offer hands-on gardening skills learning. The farm’s community garden gives local residents a space to grow their own crops and build relationships with neighbors. “When we

repair at that level, you don’t even need a larger movement,” Lewis says. “We operate on the individual level and enact change from the ground up.”

While the farm’s mission falls under the umbrella of food justice and food sovereignty, says farm manager Jon McNair, the focus is on farming. “We’re just talking about sustainable ways of growing food and sharing food,”

The farm’s “no questions asked” policy — meaning no one is required to disclose their income or any other personal information to receive food — is key to maintaining trust. “Somebody could drive up in a nice car and still be food-insecure,” McNair says.

RECONNECTING TO THE LAND

While food insecurity looks different for each individual or household, marginalized communities are disproportionately affected due to systemic factors.

Asheville’s historically Black Southside neighborhood, for example, once had its own vibrant food economy with small groceries, backyard gardens and community markets. But decades ago, it was all dismantled by city and county urban renewal policies that razed buildings, rerouted streets and displaced many residents into public housing. It has been 50 years since the neighborhood had a grocery store, and it still lacks a direct bus route to one.

Founded in 2014 by Southside elders determined to restore access in the neighborhood, Southside Community Farm (SCF) operates as a nonprofit, growing and distributing produce to community members at no charge. On a half-acre garden plot and a ⅕-acre orchard across the street, the farm raises more than 2,000 pounds of food per year — everything from medicinal herbs to greens, squash, berries and apples.

The farm also offers education and gardening programs for kids and families and serves as a space for Black residents to reconnect with land on their own terms.

“A lot of the oppression that the U.S. experiences is founded on stolen land and stolen agricultural labor,” says farm manager Chloe Moore. “It is important for us to remember and celebrate that our relationships with land are much older than that — especially in Black communities; that our relationship with growing food is much, much older than the start of enslavement.”

Youth engagement is central to SCF’s work — kids who visit the farm aren’t just learning to garden, they’re reclaiming an ancestral relationship. “So that it’s not just a connection, but a reconnection — rekindling relationships that are already inherent,” Moore says.

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Similarly, at Jackson County nonprofit Full Spectrum Farms, land stewardship becomes a way for people to directly access resources, while also connecting with the world around them and each other.

WHATEVER IT TAKES

‘We are accustomed to crisis and resiliency’

Sue Polston is executive director of Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness, a nonprofit that works to create community wellness through shared lived experience.

Xpress: What is your organization’s most urgent need at this time, and how can community members provide assistance, financially or otherwise?

Polston: Last year, Sunrise had 44,000 peer-supported interactions, and today our Drop-In Community Center averages 100 visits a day — a 75% increase from last year. These numbers indicate the tremendous demand for our unique blend of authentic peer support, resource connection and harm reduction. Our most urgent need is continued financial support to sustain the growing demand for our services. Individual donations are vital in bridging funding gaps and ensuring we can continue to meet our community’s needs.

What is a recent accomplishment within your organization that you’d like more community members to know about. How, if at all, will this achievement impact local residents?

In June 2025, Sunrise moved into what we hope will be the permanent location for our Drop-In Community Center — our fourth move in three years. Having a stable home allows us to better serve the growing number of peers who rely on us for connection, support and resources. We’re now preparing to launch a capital campaign to purchase the building, ensuring uninterrupted services and long-term stability for our community of peers.

Are there any upcoming initiatives within your organization that you can tell our readers about and how they can get involved?

Sunrise is excited to expand our impact beyond Asheville, bringing recovery support to peers in several surrounding counties. Many individuals in rural areas experience isolation and limited access to resources, which can lead to substance use and mental wellness challenges. We have multiple programs committed to bridging gaps in recovery support and employment opportunities while continuing to provide crisis support for those affected by Hurricane Helene.

Have federal cuts impacted your organization? If so, in what ways have they affected your operations?

Yes and no. Federal funding cuts have created uncertainty across the recovery field; however, Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness has not reduced any programs or services. We’ve increased outreach and staffing, strengthened partnerships and diversified funding to maintain full-service delivery and expand peer-led recovery supports across Western North Carolina. The recent federal shutdown has delayed North Carolina’s allocations, causing contract and reimbursement delays. This is problematic fundingwise, but as people living in recovery, we are accustomed to crisis and resiliency. X

SUE POLSTON

Founded in 2002, the farm uses horticulture as a means for building community and reducing isolation for neurodiverse individuals, particularly people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Working on the farm and growing-skills education, along with arts and crafts activities, are all part of the nonprofit’s programming.

“Horticulture and farm environments are uniquely powerful for neurodiverse people,” explains Executive Director Erin McManus “The natural seasonal rhythms of planting, growing and harvesting and the inherent daily routines offer structure and predictability that are grounding.”

Echoing Root Cause’s idea of holistic nourishment, Full Spectrum garden manager Carol West says the garden provides the participants with multiple benefits. “It helps with their communication, their socialization, getting them outside, getting some exercise, getting more grounded, seeing where food comes [from] and nutrition,” she explains.

The sensory experience of being outdoors reduces anxiety and allows participants to be themselves, says Jane Coburn, Full Spectrum’s director of neurodiversity and family coaching. “Individuals with ASD are not sure how to socialize in a way that fits into that

neurotypical box, nor should they have to,” she explains. “This farm combats that. They can just be themselves, however that looks.”

Engaging in growing, McNair notes, has the power to bring people together around the common understanding that everyone has the right to eat food. There is power in the direct and physical work.

“We want to highlight what we’re doing, and people can make connections to that,” she says. “We’re just talking about sustainable ways of growing and sharing food.”

‘CHRONIC STATE OF EMERGENCY’

That philosophy can extend outward to include climate justice, labor rights and the fight for living wages. Land stewardship, Moore explains, is the root of all cultures, and getting back to that foundation can be the center point of justice work.

Farm laborers, they add, remain among the most exploited workers in the U.S. “To be able to say, ‘Hey, I’m your farmer, I grew some of the food that you eat,’ is powerful. All farm workers deserve that respect.”

While crises like Helene, COVID-19 and federal funding cuts have deepened inequities and sent shockwaves through vulnerable communities, crisis response is nothing new for these farms.

“As a Black neighborhood in food apartheid, Southside has been in a chronic state of emergency for decades,” Moore says. “We are often, in the case of these emergencies, very well set up to respond because we’re already responding to crises every day.”

McNair agrees, recalling that at Root Cause after Helene, “We were already set up to respond, providing food from the garden and water from our well.”

All three farms were formed in response to crises in their communities, yet are constantly adapting to ever-increasing levels of need. Due to the uncertainty caused by recent delays to distribution of federal Supplemantal Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits, Root Cause is ramping up to offer more produce and include additional volunteers at its weekly markets.

Having met a higher level of need after Helene, Lewis is optimistic about the farm’s ability to remain a resource during the instability with government funding. But the challenge, she says, is to maintain that level of support as time goes on.

“The need for fresh food in the communities that we serve is not going away,” Lewis says, noting that many local food distribution nonprofits, including MANNA FoodBank and Bounty & Soul, have been impacted by cuts to federally funded programs such as the Healthy Opportunity Pilot.

Root Cause Farm, SCF and Full Spectrum Farm do not receive federal funding. Staff at SCF and Root Cause

say they shy away from federal grants because they require nonprofits to collect data about the people using their services. Gathering this information about participants, Moore, Lewis and McNair argue, interferes with the organizations’ ability to build genuine community.

“We’re unwilling to stand by the refrigerator with a clipboard and ask people how much money they make,” Moore says. “The moment we stigmatize food access, the most oppressed people lose out.”

FRAGILE SUPPORT SYSTEMS

All three farms rely heavily on volunteers and small, private donations, a support system that is fragile and unpredictable. For all of them, funding is a constant hurdle, and for SCF, land access continues to be a major challenge.

Full Spectrum Farms is fortunate enough to own its land — one of the greatest assets a WNC nonprofit can have, according to McManus. Root Cause’s land was donated with help from a local church and the owners of Hickory Nut Gap Farm.

The land SCF grows on is legally owned by the Housing Authority of the City of Asheville (HACA). In 2014, SCF gained access to the half-acre plot through an informal agreement, leaving the farm vulnerable to HACA’s decisions. That vulnerability became clear last year, when HACA proposed replacing the farm with a new playground, sparking major community backlash (read more at avl.mx/dns).

“Because we’re working Black people without connections to wealth and power, it hasn’t yet been accessible for us to own land,” Moore says. “We’re still looking for someone to donate land to us.”

Both SCF and Root Cause operate as mutual aid networks, meaning that anyone can donate food to their free refrigerators and Share Markets. “We’re very much crowdfunded,” says Moore. “People can go to our website, donate, buy us tools or help clean and restock the free fridges.”

All three farms share an emphasis on education and welcoming children to participate in farmwork, building lasting community connections to land and sustainable food. Moore’s vegetable washing station faces a playground, where staff members often chat with the children. They recall a moment watching two kindergartners playing house, when instead of visiting a grocery store, the children went to the farm.

“They harvested their own food in pretend world and put their little harvest of greens into the trunk of their car and drove it back to their house,” Moore says. “Kids normalize what is modeled to them and then act that out. These kids were acting out a form of food sovereignty and choosing their food not from a store but from the earth.”

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

 Online-only events

 More info, page 26

WELLNESS

Self-Care Sound Healing

In these sound healing sessions, you will be guided through a peaceful meditation using frosted crystal quartz bowls, allowing their soothing vibrations to support your well-being.

FR (11/28), 6:30pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave

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 (11/29), 10am, Bearwallow Mountain Trail, 4899 Bearwallow Mountain Rd, Hendersonville

Free Community Qi

Gong

Ancient Chinese holistic set of exercises that includes various postures and slow physical movements.

SA (11/29), 11:30am, YWCA of Asheville, 185

S French Broad Ave

Sunday Morning Meditation Group

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

SU (11/30), 10am, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Chair Aerobics Workout

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

TU (12/2), noon, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd, Asheville

Chen Tai Chi

Chen style is known for its spiral movements and fajin, or issuing power. It is considered a very high level of Tai Chi.

TH (12/4), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

SUPPORT GROUPS

Disordered Eating/ Eating Disorders

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

WE (11/26, 12/3), 6pm, Online

Nicotine Anonymous

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

TH (11/27, 12/4), 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 encounters with visual, tactile, sensational, or fringe experiences with life and the interaction of energy.

TH (11/27, 12/4), 6pm, free, 12 Baskets Cafe, 610 Haywood Rd

Marijuana Anonymous

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

TH (11/27, 12/4), 6:30pm, American Legion Post #2, 851 Haywood Rd

Magnetic Minds: Depression & Bipolar Support Group

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

SA (11/29), 2pm, First Congregational UCC of Asheville, 20 Oak St

Staying Grounded in Shaky Times

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

MO (12/1), 2pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

The Men’s Nest

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

TU (12/2), 5:15pm, SeekHealing, 50 S. French Broad Ave, Ste 138

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

TU (12/2), 6pm, Love and Respect, 350 Chadwick Ave Ste 300, Hendersonville

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING: Holiday magic takes over Hendersonville’s Historic Courthouse Plaza for the annual tree lighting on Friday, Nov. 28, starting at 5 p.m. The event will also feature the lively sounds of Drayton & The Dreamboats, with Santa expected to make an appearance at 6 p.m., followed by the lighting of the tree on the plaza and the lights along Main Street.

Photo courtesy of the City of Hendersonville

DANCE

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 (11/26), 6:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Open-Level Adult Contemporary Dance (Ages 16+)

Blend modern, lyrical, and jazz elements in a supportive, body-positive environment.

WE (11/26, 12/3), 5:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

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 (11/26, 12/3), 8pm, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd

Country Line Dancing w/Kristey

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

WE (12/3), 6pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

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 (11/27, 12/4), 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 (11/27), 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.

TH (11/27, 12/4), 6:45pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Free Community Zumba Gold

Monday Night Contra Dance

Pool night, every Monday night with a $5 buy in. Must be signed up by 7 p.m. MO (12/1), 7:30pm, A-B Tech, 340 Victoria Rd

ART

North Carolina Glass

2025

A landmark exhibition that will spotlight the work of both established and emerging artists pushing the boundaries of glass as a contemporary art form. Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 12 WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

This class introduces easy-to-follow Zumba choreography that focuses on balance, range of motion and coordination. FR (11/28), 10am, YWCA of Asheville, 185 SFrench Broad Ave

Michelle Hamilton: Rising from the River Hamilton's work is a joyful exploration of encaustics, mixed media, and resin, where bold colors and layered textures converge to create harmonious compositions. Gallery open Monday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through Nov. 26. 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

Bachelor of Fine Art Portfolio Exhibition 2025

This exhibition highlights their comprehensive course of study at WCU’s School of Art & Design and serves as a preface to their forthcoming careers as professional artists. Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 5. WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

Artful Living: The Spirit of the Craftsman Style Through clay, canvas, wood, and metal, Artful Living explores the soul of the Craftsman ethos—simplicity, utility, and harmony with the natural world. Gallery open Monday through Sunday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 31. Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd

WHATEVER IT TAKES

Finding funds in the wake of federal cuts

Ele Ellis is the CEO and general manager of Blue Ridge Public Radio (BPR), which aims to engage local residents through its curated content both online and on-air.

Xpress: What is your organization’s most urgent need at this time, and how can community members provide assistance, financially or otherwise?

Ellis: Blue Ridge Public Radio’s most urgent need is sustaining the local journalism and essential services that Western North Carolina depends on, especially considering recent federal funding cuts to public media. These cuts directly affect our ability to produce trusted local news, cover rural communities and maintain the engineering infrastructure that keeps BPR on the air. Community members can make the greatest impact by becoming sustaining monthly donors or by increasing annual contributions. Beyond financial support, listeners can also advocate for BPR by encouraging friends, family and colleagues to tune in, subscribe to our newsletters and attend station events that strengthen community connection. What is a recent accomplishment within your organization that you’d like more community members to know about? How will this achievement impact local residents?

BPR ’s newsroom was recently recognized with multiple Edward R. Murrow awards, among the most prestigious honors in broadcast journalism. In addition, BPR has earned top distinctions from other industry groups, including the Green Eyeshades Award for outstanding journalism and the Online News Association’s Excellence in Social Media Engagement award, the highest recognition from the world’s largest digital journalism organization.

Have federal cuts impacted your organization? If so, in what ways have they affected your operations?

Earlier this year, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) experienced complete federal funding elimination, and that results in the loss of more than $330,000 in support to BPR or more than $3 million over the course of a decade. Those funds are typically used to cover critical expenses, from technology and transmission costs to staff positions that make local news and emergency coverage possible. We are working hard to recover this loss through community giving, ensuring that BPR remains strong, independent and accessible to all who rely on it. X

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

Look Homeward, Angel: Letterio Calapai’s Wood Engravings of the Asheville-Inspired Novel

This exhibition presents a folio of prints by Letterio Calapai illustrating "Look Homeward, Angel" (1929)—Thomas Wolfe’s semi-autobiographical novel set in a fictionalized Asheville. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through Feb. 22, 2026. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Spark! Places of Innovation Smithsonian Exhibit

This traveling exhibit focuses on the innovation occurring in rural communities. It uses photographs, interactive elements, objects, and videos to tell stories of social, artistic, technological, and cultural innovation. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 9am. Exhibition through Jan. 13. Madison County Library, 1335 N. Main St, Marshall AIDS Memorial Quilt Exhibit

Quilt displays offer opportunities to raise awareness about the advances in HIV treatment and prevention medications, including PrEP–medications that could bring us to the end of the HIV epidemic. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 9am. Exhibition through Dec. 13.

Revolve Gallery, 821 Riverside Dr

Points in Space: Performance

This exhibition will feature visual and time-based artworks that echo BMC’s innovative spirit from 1933 to 1957. BMC was a nexus of avant-garde activity, fostering innovation through collaboration and experiential learning. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through Jan. 10, 2026.

Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St

Raw & Unfiltered Exhibition

This exhibition features 25 local artists showing multiple perspectives and styles. It will feature art medias such as stained glass, painting, drawing, photography, collage, printmaking, ceramic, quilt making and more. Gallery open daily, noon. Exhibition through Dec. 6. Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200

Natalie Ray Fine Art: Born In France

Asheville watercolor artist Natalie Ray invites you to an intimate evening celebrating her newest collection. This is a one-night-only pop-up exhibition and will feature refreshments and small-bites.

TH (12/4), 5:30pm, The Studio Asheville, 34 Wall St

COMMUNITY MUSIC

All Aboard AVL: The Last Waltz

The Travers Brothers reunite for a rare and unforgettable night, honoring the legendary Last Waltz concert film by Martin Scorsese. WE (11/26), 8pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

Jazz & Soul Sessions w/ Kelle Jolly & Will Boyd

A vibrant new concert series featuring nationally acclaimed artists

Kelle Jolly and Will Boyd, making up a dynamic five member house

band. FR (11/28), 7pm, YMI Cultural Center, 39 S Market St

Alan Mearns Classic Guitar

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

FR (11/28), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Pavel Wlosok

A Czech-born American pianist and composer, music producer and educator, audio mixing and mastering engineer, and commercial studies at WNC.

SU (11/30), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

An Hawaiian Christmas w/CarolinAloha & Billy Cardine

With a rotating cast of exceptional, expressive, and joyful musicians, CarolinAloha brings the warmth and soul of Hawaiian-inspired music to the mountains of North Carolina-and far beyond.

MO (12/1), 7:30pm, Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave

Blue Ridge Ringers: An International Christmas

An International Christmas concert series celebrating the holiday season.

WE (12/3), 2pm, Tryon Estates, 617 Laurel Lake Dr, Columbus

UNCA Jazz Night w/Dr. William Bares

A night of incredible jazz with pianist, composer, scholar and educator William Bares, a professor or music and co-director of jazz studies at UNC Asheville.

WE (12/3), 7pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

American Roots w/The Wildwoods

An evening of authentic Americana with

The Wildwoods, an award-winning trio celebrated for their rich harmonies and roots-inspired sound.

TH (12/4), 7:30pm, Parker Concert Hall at Brevard Music Center, 349 Andante Ln, Brevard

LITERARY

Meter & Melody: Poetry Night Poetry open mic hosted by Dill every last Wednesday of the month.

WE (11/26), 7pm, Static Age Loft, 116 N Lexington Ave Poetry Open Mic

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

WE (11/26, 12/3), 8:30pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave Flooded Poetry

Mondays

A poetry-specific open mic that stars you plus weekly featured readers.

MO (12/1), 6:30pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

Free Community Zumba Mix low-intensity and high-intensity moves for an interval style, dance fitness party.

WE (11/26), 5:30pm, YWCA of Asheville, 185 S French Broad Ave Drop In Simply Charmed & Copper Ornament Making Choose from more than 60 styles of metal stamps and a variety of jewelers hammers to complete your charm. FR (11/28), noon, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A Enamel a Silver Charm You’ll sift the enamel onto the silver charm then fire it in a kiln to flow the glass enamel onto the silver, and repeat until your piece is complete.

ELE ELLIS

SA (11/29), 11am, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A, Asheville

Local Cloth Holiday Make & Take

Participants can craft ornaments and small fiber-inspired gifts to keep or give away. It’s a perfect opportunity to engage with family and friends.

SU (11/30), 12pm, Local Cloth, 408 Depot St, Ste 100

Y12SR: Yoga & 12 Step Recovery

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

MO (12/1), 4:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Introduction to AI: A Workshop of Basics for Beginners

This workshop will dive into the benefits and risks associated with AI integration, promoting growth for individuals and our economy.

TU (12/2), 9:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Av

Stamp a Copper Ornament

After a quick demo by the instructor you can take up to 1 hour to complete your masterpiece.

TU (12/2), 11am, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A

Homeschool Beginner Climbing Class

A three-week instructional climbing class for beginners ages 7-13 years-old and their guardians. A parent or guardian must attend and be prepared to participate and belay their child.

TU (12/2), 12:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Farm Taxes 2025

This session will provide individuals and business owners with the latest information possible on recent tax legislation.

TH (12/4), 6pm, Online Training Events at SCC, 447 College Dr, Sylva

THEATER & FILM

Kids Movie Night

A free kid's movie night every Monday and Thursday.

TH (11/27), 5:30pm, Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co., 675 Merrimon Ave

Foreign Film Fridays: Where the Green Ants Dream

A surveying team led by Australian geologist Lance Hackett (Bruce Spence) is setting off subterranean explosions deep in the outback, searching for possible uranium mining sites.

FR (11/28), 7pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200,

Horror Movies

Every Sunday will feature Cagney's cult classics but you'll never know what will be showed until the lights go dark.

SU (11/30), 7pm, Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co., 675 Merrimon Ave

Movie Nights

We’ll have our heaters on and bonfires going, so everyone will be cozy and parents can pop outside to enjoy a drink, dessert, or meal by the fire, once kids settle in.

TH (12/4), 5pm, Foothills Watershed, 655 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort

Tesla Quartet: The Music of Hugo Kauder

The program will feature Kauder’s Seventh String Quartet, the same work first performed at BMC in 1945, offering audiences a rare chance to experience this historic piece in a contemporary setting.

TH (12/4), 7pm, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS

Southside Cyber

Wednesday

Dive into the exciting world of e-sports and gaming with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles.

WE (11/26, 12/3), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

National Speakers Association NSA-WNC Meeting

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

TH (11/26, 12/4), 10am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Tarot w/Cats

This 1-hour workshop will be held in the cat lounge, and will include a brief history of the tarot, and how to incorporate a one- and three-card pull for daily guidance.

FR (11/28), 5:30pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

48HFP & Flood Gallery

Present: Actors & Filmmakers Mixer

An evening of connection, collaboration, and creativity. Meet local actors, directors, and producers, share stories, and discover you next great project.

SA (11/29), 5pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200

Coloring w/Cats

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

SU (11/30), 2pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Community Kirtan & Song Circle

Experience the joy and connection of kirtan, a heart-centered gathering where we come together to sing devotional chants in a call-and-response format.

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

Monday Marketing Meetup

A collaborative marketing meetup where entrepreneurs and creatives share what they're working on, exchange ideas, and support each other's next steps.

MO (12/1), 1pm, The Local Collective, 52 S Main St, Weaverville

Therapeutic Recreation

Indoor Glow Rock

Climbing

The gym glow with black lights and music played during the second hour, so wear white or neon colors.

MO (12/1), 6pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

IBN Biz Lunch: East Asheville

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

TU (12/2), noon, Suwana Asian Cuisine, 45 Tunnel Rd

Madden Mania

Evenings are focused on fostering teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking while pursuing a passion for competitive gaming.

TU (12/2), 6pm,

Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Tarot Club

Each month, we’ll study a new method, approach, or way to work with the cards

while engaging in personal journeywork.

TU (12/2), 7pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave

IBN Breakfast Club: Mills River

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

WE (12/3), 8am, Mills River Restaurant, 4467 Boylston Hwy, Mills River

Treks Hiking Club for Adults 50+

A low-impact hiking club offering leisurely-paced hikes for active adults 50 or better. Bring lunch, water, good walking shoes, and dress for the weather.

WE (12/3), 9:30am, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd

We Are The Ones

This is a space for real talk, deep connection, and conscious spiritual practice. When we gather with intention and love, anything is possible.

WE (12/3), 3:30pm, Community Commons at CSL Asheville, 3 Science of Mind Way

IBN Biz Lunch: Hendersonville

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

TH (12/4), noon, Thai Spice, 220 South King St, Hendersonville

Tidings of Comfort & Joy: Journal Writing for Coping During the Holidays Evidenced based, peer reviewed research indicates that expressive writing has been a successful therapeutic tool for improved health and well-being.

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

XPRESS EVENT PICK

No Cost Veggie & Fruit Share Market

• Tempie Avery Montford Community Center

34 Pearson Dr

• Wednesday, Nov. 26 | 3 p.m.

Access delicious, nutritious fruits and vegetables at absolutely no cost sourced from Bountiful Cities Gardens and MANNA FoodBank.

“Take advantage of this special event offering free food to the community. It’s especially worth checking out before Thanksgiving if you’re looking for fresh veggies for your holiday casseroles.”

— Braulio Martinez X

Sounds of the Season

The Hendersonville Community Band Winford Franklin, Conductor Cole Hairston, Associate Conductor featuring Blue Ridge Ringers - Blaine Russell, Director Mary Beth Brody, Vocalist

Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 3:00 PM

Blue Ridge Conference Hall

Blue Ridge Community College in Flat Rock, NC

Adults—$12 Students—Free (sales tax included)

For tickets, scan QR code above. Tickets also available at door

Design Open House for Walton Street Park

View design concepts and offer feedback for repurposing and revitalizing historic Walton Street Park's bathhouse and pool area.

TH (12/4), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

GAMES & CLUBS

Asheville Board Game

Club Meet-Up

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

WE (11/26, 12/3), 5:30pm, Well Played, 162 Coxe Ave, Ste 101

Bid Whist

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

SA (11/29), 1pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St 828 Golf Sim Saturdays

Every Saturday in November, 828 Golf Sim will be on the brew deck with free to play golf simulator.

SA (11/29), 4pm, Green Man Brewery, 27 Buxton Ave

Weekly Sunday

Scrabble!

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

SU (11/30), 1:30pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver 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 (12/1), 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 (12/1), 6:30pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville Southside Cyber Wednesday

Dive into the exciting world of e-sports and gaming with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles.

WE (12/3), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

KID-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS

Family Story Time

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

WE (11/26, 12/3), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Baby Storytime

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

TH (11/27, 12/4), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Coloring w/Cats: Kiddie Edition

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

SA (11/29), 1pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

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 (12/1), 11:45am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Tiny Tykes Discovery Time: Wild Wild West

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

TU (12/2), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Tiny Tykes Play Dates

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

WE (12/3), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Black Cat Tales: Story Time w/Cats

Foster a love of reading in your kiddos while also socializing the cats in the lounge.

WE (12/3), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

LOCAL MARKETS

Christmas Tree

Lighting & Holiday Market

A holiday market will take inside the Peri Social House with a snow party in kid's zone and letter's to Santa station following the tree lighting.

FR (11/28), 4pm, Peri Social House, 406 W State St, Black Mountain

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 (11/29), 9am, 52 N. Market St

Holiday Bulb Market

This market will feature several different types of big amaryllis bulbs, two kinds of paperwhite bulbs, potted plants, assorted greens, holiday bouquets and more.

SA (11/29), 9am, Bloom WNC Flower Farm, 806 North Fork Rd, Black Mountain LoCol Vintage Market

A pop-up market featuring vintage goods, local art, live music and more.

SA (11/29), 10am, The Local Collective, 52 S Main St, Weaverville

Makers Mart Small Business Saturday

Support local artists and vintage resellers to find holiday gifts on small business Saturday.

SA (11/29), noon, Green Man Brewery, 27 Buxton Ave

Traveling Bookstore w/Bagabond Books

Find unique gifts, discover new stories, and treat yourself while supporting local businesses. You'll be able to find bargains on books and merch while enjoying food and drinks.

SA (11/29), 3pm, Mad Co. Brew House, 45 North Main St, Marshall 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

Holiday Pottery Market

Discover an extraordinary collection of one-of-a-kind ceramics made by 14 talented local potters, all members of the BMCA Clay Studio.

TU (12/2), 10am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain Holiday Pottery Market

Discover an extraordinary collection of one-of-a-kind ceramics made by 14 talented local potters, all members of the BMCA Clay Studio.

WE (12/3), 10am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

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 yearround.

WE (12/3), 3pm, 60 Lake Shore Dr Weaverville

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

South Asheville Turkey Trot

Kick off Thanksgiving morning with a relaxed 5K through the beautiful Biltmore Park neighborhood - where the vibes are festive, the shirts are vintage-cool, and the finisher medals are worth the effort.

TH (11/27), 9am, Biltmore Park Town Square, Town Square Blvd.

Annual Tree Lighting

The air will be filled with excitement and holiday cheer with with the lively sounds of Drayton & The Dreamboats kicking off the night. Santa is expected to arrive just before 6pm to lead the countdown, followed by the lighting of the Christmas Tree. See p26

FR (11/28), 5pm, Hendersonville Historic Courthouse Square, 1 Historic Courthouse Square, Hendersonville

Grove Arcade Holiday Tree Lighting Block Party

Annual tree lighting block party that features an all-day Holiday Market, an outdoor DJ, live band music, photo-ops and meet and greets with Santa Claus, an outdoor popup bar, a performance from Asheville Ballet and more.

SA (11/29), noon, Grove Arcade, 1 Page Ave

The 5th Annual Winter Wonder Walk

Celebrate the magic of the season with an enchanting outdoor story experience where live theater meets a whimsical walk through the woods.

SA (11/29), SU (11/30), 6pm, Adventure Center of Asheville, 85 Expo Dr

Land of Sky Regional Council Annual Recognition

Annual Recognition Luncheon to award individuals for leadership, intergovernmental relations, excellence in local government, and special recognition. WE (12/3), 12pm, Land of Sky Regional Council Offices, 339 New Leicester Hwy, Ste 140

Candy Cane Flashlight Hunt

Search for candy canes and merry treasures in the dark. Bring your own flashlight or headlamp.

WE (12/3), 5:30pm, Jake Rusher Park, 160 Sycamore Dr, Arden

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING

No Cost Veggie & Fruit Share Market

Access delicious, nutritious fruits and vegetables at absolutely no cost sourced from Bountiful Cities Gardens and MANNA FoodBank.

WE (11/26, 12/3), 3pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

The Inaugural Asheville Juke Joint Homecoming Party

This special shows celebrates the release of the latest Drunken Prayer album, Thy Burdens, with performances from Drunken Prayer, Los Gun Show, Unholy Trio and more. It will also server as a fundraiser for the nonprofit Equal Plates Project. See p26

SA (11/29), 8pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

Cats vs Dogs: Donation Dr for Asheville Humane Society

Bring in items for either cats or dogs to donate to Asheville Humane Society. $1 from each pint of a specialty beer will go toward Asheville Humane Society as well.

SU (11/30), noon, Green Man Brewery, 27 Buxton Ave

14th Annual Ingles Magical Christmas Toy Dr For three days, Ingles Markets, iHeart Asheville, WLOS and community partners will join together to collect brand-new, unwrapped toys for children from birth to age 18.

TH (12/4), 6am, Ingles Smokey Park Hwy, 151 Smokey Park Hwy

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 (12/4), 9am, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Magical Offerings

11/29:

ARTS & CULTURE

Into the unknown

BY CHRISTOPHER ARBOR

On Jan. 1, Christopher Arbor and his friends pledged to visit one Asheville brewery each week for all of 2025 in the order that they opened, then share the experience with Mountain Xpress readers. To read about their trip to their old friend Nine Mile Brewing, visit avl.mx/f7o.

In her book Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away, author Annie Duke points out that for every line of ants you see exploiting a food source, many more are out exploring the area, looking for new opportunities. And that, Duke argues, is a good way to live one’s life: Harvest the knowns, hunt the unknowns.

And that’s just what we’re doing. Last week, I told you about our trip to an old favorite, Nine Mile, a known quantity that I will happily harvest for the next forever. This week, I want to tell you about our trip to a brewery unknown to me before this year: Terra Nova Beer Co., a name that appropriately means “new earth.”

When we ventured into the South Slope location (Terra Nova also has a space in Swannanoa), I thought I was singing “Into the Unknown” from Frozen 2 in my head. Wes elbowed me in the ribs to let me know that I was, in fact, humming it out loud and quite loudly. But since I’m tone deaf, it apparently just sounded like I was making erratic race car noises.

We ordered our tasty brews and settled into the welcoming taproom, furnished with comfy couches and chairs. I admired a big mural featuring a monochrome bear on a celestial background that I later learned was painted by Amar Stewart, Terra Nova’s

YEAR BINEER

NECESSITIES: At Terra Nova Beer Co.’s South Slope taproom, the Year in Beer gang gathered near a bear mural painted by the brewery’s creative director and artist-in-residence, Amar Stewart. Photo by Christopher Arbor

creative director and artist-in-residence. He’s also responsible for the brewery’s dreamy can art that seems to play with nature and transcendence.

My friends and I marinated on the question: How does a brewery fit in while standing out? Think about it. Asheville breweries need to feel like Asheville breweries while not looking like any other Asheville brewery. Just like the aforementioned ants, it makes sense for them to take advantage of what they already know customers want. But if they don’t innovate, who’s going to show up?

Near as we could tell, Terra Nova carves out its brewing niche by using local malts and focusing on European (especially Czech) lagers. It carves out its aesthetic niche by leaning into naturalism. Just check out the wall covered in preserved moss — it’s as if Andy

Warhol brought to life the children’s book Where the Wild Things Are

As Terra Nova says on its website, “We envision a world with less speed, greed, and extraction, and more peace, green, and connection.”

Hey, I’ll drink to that.

As Asheville’s newest brewery, Terra Nova was the last on our list, but like those pesky ants, we’ve got more exploring to do. In December, I’ll fill you in on our adventures to other fermenting facilities outside of breweries, including Ben’s Tune-Up, Ginger’s Revenge and Chemist Spirits.

Then, on Monday, Nov. 24, we’ll return to our old stomping grounds: Wedge at Foundation. Whether you’re a loyal reader or just stumbled upon this article, come join us. We’ll be there at 5:30 p.m.

Here’s to new earth and new adventures. Raise a glass. X

Kat Williams gave us the chance to feel soulful. She invited us in with her warm, shining eyes and her vocals tinged with hope; she brought us together in music and laughter, and community.

White Horse mourns the loss of a friend; let’s make a joyful noise for her.

White Horse Black Mountain

Holiday spirit

Ginger Frank, founder and CEO of Poppy Hand Crafted Popcorn, was all set to celebrate her business’s 10-year anniversary with the debut a new permanent retail store in Biltmore Village on Oct. 9, 2024. Then, less than two weeks before the opening date, floodwaters stemming from Tropical Storm Helene ravaged the historic area and canceled those plans.

But this August, Heather and Matt Wright — owners of the 14 Lodge St. building, which was fully renovated and restored after the flood — contacted Frank. Knowing she wasn’t ready to commit to a full-time space, they asked if she’d want to run a Poppy pop-up shop out of the location for the holiday season.

“While I hadn’t planned on it, I immediately said yes,” Frank says. “After such a tough year, it felt like exactly what our community — and we — needed: a little joy, fun and holiday spirit in the village.”

Through Wednesday, Dec. 31, Poppy’s full line of flavors (including its holiday collection) are available under one roof. And to make the popup as community-focused as possible, Frank and her staff have planned some special events, including a charcuterie workshop with Asheville Charcuterie on Thursday, Dec. 4, and a Taylor Swift Birthday Party on Saturday, Dec. 13, during which the community is invited to participate in the filming of a Swift TikTok. Also available at the pop-up is the “Stronger Together” gift series, featuring collaborations with some of the Poppy team’s favorite local brands. According to Frank, the goal of these curated sets is to make it easy to shop small and support multiple Asheville businesses.

“We’re also adding a little joy to daily life with Snacky Hour,” Frank says. “We’ll be out on the sidewalk, handing out full-sized bags of salted caramel popcorn to folks heading home from work. If you happen to be near Lodge Street or Hendersonville Road, you might just get a sweet surprise for your drive home.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/ch3.

County food drive benefits

MANNA FoodBank

The recent federal government shutdown disrupted the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance

Poppy pops up in Biltmore Village

WHAT’S NEW IN FOOD

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: Poppy staff member Megan Boatwright is pictured in the local popcorn company’s new seasonal pop-up shop in Biltmore Village. Poppy had planned to open a permanent retail space at the location in 2024, but it was destroyed by flooding from Tropical Storm Helene. Photo by Gina Smith

Program (SNAP) for the first twoplus weeks of November, jeopardizing the welfare of more than 29,000 Buncombe County residents who rely on these benefits to purchase food. As of Nov. 14, SNAP benefits have been loaded onto recipients’ EBT cards, and the program is funded until the end of September 2026.

In the interim, before benefits were restored, Buncombe County government launched a countywide food drive benefiting MANNA FoodBank and its partner pantries, which provide free healthy foods to the community. As of Nov. 12, the food drive had collected more than 8,540 pounds of food, which translates to about 7,000 meals. The drive ran through Nov. 22.

“We are grateful that the SNAP program is fully funded for the rest of this federal fiscal year, and we look forward to seeing stability restored to the families relying on these benefits,” says David Sweat, Buncombe County Health and Human Services director, in a press release. “We appreciate the generosity of the people of Buncombe County stepping up to help us navigate this situation and support our

neighbors through the countywide food drive.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f6i.

Chai Pani co-founder set to release new book

Molly Irani, co-founder of Chai Pani, Botiwalla and Spicewalla with

her husband, Meherwan, will have her first book published March 24 by Simon & Schuster. Service Ready: A Story of Love, Restaurants and the Power of Hospitality offers a behindthe-scenes look at how and why the couple started their first restaurant and what they built together.

“It shares our madcap adventure of becoming restaurateurs, the mistakes we made along the way and the lessons we learned from them that eventually turned a midlife crisis into a growing mini food empire,” Molly says in a press release.

“It dives into what it means to us to be ‘service ready’ on a deeper level; that ethos is the foundation of our growing company. And how, when service comes from a place of love and authenticity, it has the power to transform not just businesses, but lives.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f7i.

Free mushroom class Dec. 12

Bountiful Cities offers a free Mushroom Inoculation Workshop on Friday, Dec. 12, at 1 p.m., at its Pearson Garden Food Hub, 408 Pearson Drive. Led by guest instructor Christopher Parker, the class offers insights on growing mushrooms from waste stream products with low-tech cultivation methods. The session will give participants hands-on experience in using common household items to get started, and each person will go home with straw inoculated with oyster mushroom mycelium to produce their own medicine and food.

A member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Parker is a “culture keeper” who maintains seed and spore banks, fungal culture libraries and the living knowledge of using fungi to feed people and regenerate forests.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f7h. X

If you’re a fan of comedy, chances are good that you’ve seen Helen Hong. In addition to acting in such films as the Coen brothers’ Inside Llewyn Davis and various notable TV shows, including HBO’s “Silicon Valley,” NBC’s “Parks and Recreation” and The CW’s “Jane the Virgin,” she’s also a frequent panelist on NPR’s “Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me.” But it’s her stand-up comedy that’s gotten Hong some of her widest acclaim and landed her gigs on “The Arsenio Hall Show,” “Last Call with Carson Daly,” “Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen” and the Just For Laughs comedy festival in Montreal. Ashevillearea audiences get not one, but two chances to catch Hong’s set, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 6-7, at Wortham Center

by Edwin Arnaudin | earnaudin@mountainx.com

Helen Hong Grove Arcade’s Holiday Tree Lighting Block Party

for the Performing Arts’ Tina McGuire Theatre. Both shows begin at 8 p.m., and tickets start at $32.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f7k. X

Rock N Roll Rewind

Thanksgiving is a time for folks to take stock of their lives and express gratitude for the blessings that make existence worthwhile. The day after, however, is for rocking out — and giving back.

For the third consecutive Black Friday, Asheville supergroup Rock N Roll Rewind will play The Orange Peel, performing some of the biggest anthems from the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s. Such hits as The Cars’ “Just What I Needed,”

Heart’s “Barracuda” and Billy Idol’s “White Wedding” often make the setlist, along with tunes by The Police, Judas Priest, Night Ranger and more.

The evening doubles as a fundraiser for food insecurity nonprofit Backyard Bow Pro, and toys will be collected for Craggy Mountain Line’s Jingle Bell Trolley Toy Ride. The show starts at 8 p.m., and tickets are $21.40.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f7m. X

Didn’t 2025 just start? While we figure out if the calendar is playing a giant prank on us, we might as well head over to the Grove Arcade and have a little fun at its annual Holiday Tree Lighting Block Party on Saturday, Nov. 29.

The free, daylong celebration begins at noon with a holiday market curated by the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Then at 5 p.m., a borderline overwhelming amount of options arise, including an outdoor DJ set by Captains of Revelry in their vintage Airstream, jazz music from the Bill Bares Trio inside the Grove Arcade Atrium, photo opportunities and a meet-and-greet with the one and only Santa Claus and performances by the Asheville Ballet. It all leads up to the holiday tree-lighting ceremony before festivities conclude at 9 p.m.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/prz4. X

Members of the Asheville Ballet perform at the Grove Arcade’s Holiday Tree Lighting Block Party. Photo courtesy of Bill Kaelin Marketing

Asheville Juke Joint Homecoming Party

Morgan Christopher Geer has been a force in the local music scene for over 30 years. Whether performing solo as Drunken Prayer or with a full backing band, the singer-songwriter and guitarist consistently mesmerizes audiences and shows no signs of slowing down.

In honor of this three-decade milestone and to celebrate the release of the latest Drunken Prayer album, Thy Burdens, Geer closes out Thanksgiving weekend Sunday, Nov. 29, at The Grey Eagle with the inaugural Asheville Juke Joint Homecoming Party. Along with

a headlining performance by Drunken Prayer, the night includes sets by Geer’s other bands, Los Gun Show (blues/rock) and Unholy Trio (country/honky-tonk), and features special guests from Town Mountain, Sounding Arrow, Pleasure Chest and JD Pinkus. The event also serves as a fundraiser for the nonprofit Equal Plates Project, which benefits small farms and individuals facing food insecurity.

The music starts at 8 p.m., and tickets are $18.45.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f7l. X

Photo of Drunken Prayer by Christa de Mayo

Photo of Helen Hong by Eric Korenman

Photo of Rock N Roll Rewind by Caden Earley

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY BY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): The Japanese word mushin means "no mind.” In Zen Buddhism, it refers to the state of flow where thinking stops and being takes over. When you are moving along in the groove of mushin, your body knows what to do before your brain catches up. You're so present you disappear into the action itself. Athletes refer to it as "the zone." It's the place where effort becomes effortless, where you stop trying and simply love the doing. In the coming weeks, Aries, you can enjoy this state more than you have in a long time. Ride it with glee!

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): For the foreseeable future, salmon are your spirit creatures. I’ll remind you about their life cycle. They are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean, and live there for years. Then they return, moving against river currents, up waterfalls, past bears and eagles. Eventually, they arrive at the exact stream where they were born. How do they do it? They navigate using the Earth's magnetic field and their sense of smell, remembering chemical signatures from years ago. I think your own calling is as vivid as theirs, dear Taurus. And in the coming weeks, you will be extra attuned to that primal signal. Trust the ancient pull back toward your soul’s home.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): What if procrastination isn’t always a problem? On some occasions, maybe it’s a message from your deeper self. Delay could serve as a form of protection. Avoidance might be a sign of your deep wisdom at work. Consider these possibilities, Gemini. What if your resistance to the "should" is actually your soul's immune system rejecting a foreign agenda? It might be trying to tell you secrets about what you truly want versus what you think you should want.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): I’m only slightly joking when I recommend that you practice the art of sacred bitching in the coming days. You are hereby authorized to complain and criticize with creative zeal. But the goal is not to push hard in a quest to solve problems perfectly. Instead, simply give yourself the luxury of processing and metabolizing the complications. Your venting and whining won’t be pathological, but a legitimate way to achieve emotional release. Sometimes, like now, you need acknowledgment more than solutions. Allowing feelings is more crucial than fixing things. The best course of action is saying "this is hard" until it’s slightly less hard.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The Chinese concept of yuanfen means that some connections are fated. Certain people were always meant to cross your path. Not soulmates necessarily, but soul-evokers: those who bring transformations that were inscribed on your destiny before you knew they were coming. When you meet a new person and feel instant recognition, that's yuanfen. When a relationship changes your life, that's yuanfen. When timing aligns impossibly but wonderfully, that's yuanfen. According to my analysis, you Leos are due for such phenomena in the coming weeks—at least two, maybe more. Some opportunities appear because you pursue them. Others were always going to arrive simply because you opened your mind and heart.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Let’s talk about a forest’s roots. Mostly hidden from sight, they are the source of all visible life. They are always communicating with each other, sharing nourishment and information. When extra help is needed, they call on fungi networks to support them, distributing their outreach even further. Your own lineage works similarly, Virgo. It’s nutrient-rich and endlessly intertwined with others, some of whom came long before you. You are the flowering tip of an unseen intelligence. Every act of grounding— breathing deeply, resting your feet, returning to gratitude—is your body’s way of remembering its subterranean ancestry. Please keep these meditations at the forefront of your awareness in the coming weeks. I believe you will thrive to the degree that you draw from your extensive roots.

ROB BREZSNY

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You are currently in a phase when it’s highly possible to become both smarter and wiser. You have a sixth sense for knowing exactly how to enhance both your intellectual and emotional intelligence. With this happy news in mind, I will remind you that your brain is constantly growing and changing. Every experience carves new neural pathways. Every repeated thought strengthens certain connections and weakens others. You’re not stuck with the brain you have, but are continuously building the brain that’s evolving. The architecture of your consciousness is always under construction. Take full advantage of this resilience and plasticity!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The coming weeks will be a favorable time to stand near what you want to become. I advise you to surround yourself with the energy you want to embody. Position yourself in the organic ecosystem of your aspirations without grasping or forcing. Your secret power is not imitation but osmosis. Not ambition but proximity. The transformations you desire will happen sideways, through exposure and absorption. You won't become by trying to become; you will become by staying close to what calls you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Some seeds can remain dormant for centuries, waiting for the right conditions to germinate. The oldest successfully germinated seed was a 2,000-year-old date palm seed. I suspect you will experience psychospiritual and metaphorical versions of this marvel in the coming weeks. Certain aspects of you have long been dormant but are about to sprout. Some of your potentials have been waiting for conditions that you haven't encountered until recently. Is there anything you can do to encourage these wondrous developments? Be alert for subtle magic that needs just a little nudge.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Orb weaver spiders make seven different types of silk, each engineered for different purposes: sticky silk for catching prey, strong silk for the web's frame, stretchy silk for wrapping food, and soft silk for egg sacs. In other words, they don’t generate a stream of generic resources and decide later what to do with them. Each type of silk is produced by distinct silk glands and spinnerets, and each is carefully tailored for a particular use. I advise you to be like the orb weavers in the coming weeks, Capricorn. Specificity will be your superpower.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Benevolent gossip is the practice of speaking about people not to diminish them but to fondly wonder about them and try to understand them. What if gossip could be generous? What if talking about someone in their absence could be an act of compassionate curiosity rather than judgment? What if you spoke about everyone as if they might overhear you—not from fear but from respect? Your words about others could be spells that shape how they exist in the collective imagination. Here’s another beautiful fact about benevolent gossip: It can win you appreciation and attention that will enhance your ability to attract the kind of help and support you need.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Every 21,000 years, the Sahara Desert transforms into a lush green savanna. It's due to precession, which is a wobble in the Earth's axis. The African seasonal monsoon becomes much stronger, bringing increased rainfall to the entire area. The last time this occurred was from about 11,000 to 5,000 years ago. During this era, the Sahara supported lakes, rivers, grasslands, and diverse animal and human populations. I'm predicting a comparable shift for you in the coming months, Pisces. The onset of luxuriant growth is already underway. And right now is an excellent time to encourage and expedite the onset of flourishing abundance. Formulate the plans and leap into action.

For

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26

12 BONES BREWING

TAPROOM Trivia Night w/King Trivia, 7pm

EULOGY

Healyside Trio w/ Mookite, Tangent & Halo (edm), 8pm

FITZ AND THE WOLFE Prime Country (country), 7pm

FLEETWOOD’S

PSK (dance), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers Jamgrass Wednesdays (bluegrass, jam), 6:30pm

HI-WIRE SOUTH

SLOPE

Weekly Trivia, 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old-Time Jam (Appalachian), 5pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING CO.

Wednesday Night Karaoke, 6pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Drew Matulich & Friends (bluegrass), 6pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday (electropop), 8pm

SWEETEN CREEK BREWING

Witty Wednesday Trivia w/Ellie, 6:30pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Matt, Coop, & Zach’s Annual Night Before Thanksgiving Jam (multi-genre), 6pm

THE MULE Jazz Trio & Wine Wednesdays (jazz), 6pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Coyote Rodeo (bluegrass), 10pm

THIRD ROOM Stand Up Lounge Open Mic, 9pm

TURGUA BREWING CO Lightning Round Trivia w/Marty, 6pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Open Mic Night, 6pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO.

Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Open Mic, 7pm

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Jerry's Dead Thursdays, 6pm

GREEN MAN

BREWING Trivia Night, 7pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

AUT0-TUNE KARA0KE

// Hosted by "Who Gave This Bitch a Mic" (karaoke), 10pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Trivia Night, 6:30pm

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28

12 BONES BREWING TAPROOM

Andy & Graham Ferrell (folk), 5:30pm

185 KING STREET

Mike & Mike Present the Umpteenth Home Town Holiday Jam (bluegrass), 3pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Frute w/Buddhagraph Spaceship (electronic, funk, rock), 9pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY

15th Annual Byrds of a Feather Gram Parsons/ Gene Clark Tribute (rock), 8pm

ELEVATED

KAVA LOUNGE

DOWNTOWN

Open Mic Night, 8pm

CLUBLAND

FOLK SOUNDS: On Friday, Nov. 28, local progressive folk band Sun Goblin performs at the Meadow at Highland Brewing Co., starting at 7 p.m. Fans of Heart, Fleetwood Mac or Amelia Day will likely find a vibe here to enjoy. Photo courtesy of Sun Goblin

FITZ AND THE WOLFE Jim McGuinn Band (country), 7pm

FLEETWOOD’S 77 Lies, Tiny Tvs & Holley 750 (punk), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Fee Phi Faux Phish (phish tribute), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Gold Rose (alt-country, Americana), 8:30pm

MAD CO. BREW

HOUSE

Wayne Buckner's Holiday Ho Down (country), 6pm

MILLS RIVER

BREWING CO.

Raphael Graves Band (Americana), 6:30pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO

Ross Osteen (rock), 6pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING

Wilson Morris (folk, rock), 7pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Sipe, Moore, & Hill (jazz, jazz fusion), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING

CO.

Suns of Stars (bluegrass), 6pm

PRITCHARD PARK

DOWNTOWN

The Friday Drum Circle (jam), 6pm

SHAKEY'S 2000s Karaoke in The Office, 10pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Jamie Hendrickson Quartet (jazz), 8pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Chief Kaya w/Tunic (dubstep), 8pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Jernigan, Lane & Jones (jaz, funk), 8pm

SWEETEN CREEK

BREWING

The Loudes (folk, punk, rock’n’roll), 5pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

The JackTown Ramblers (bluegrass, jazz), 1pm

THE CROW & QUILL

Black Sea Beat Society (folk, Balkan), 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE

David Wilcox (folk), 7pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Soul Blue (blues, r&b, soul), 7pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Sun Goblin (prog.-folk), 6pm

THE MULE

Home for the Holigayz! Wrestling Show, 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Gill Francis (acoustic), 6pm

• Allegheny Mountain Boys (bluegrass), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Rock N Roll Rewind (rock), 7pm

VOWL BAR AT DSSOLVR Jody w/a Y & Fried Coffee (techno), 9pm

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

185 KING STREET Fairlight and the Magick (funk, rock), 8pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

D’Angelo Tribute w/ Asheville's Finest (hip hop, R&B, tribute), 9pm

CORK & KEG BAR

Zydeco Ya Ya (Cajun, swing), 5pm

CROW & QUILL

Meschiya Lake & The Moodswingers (jazz), 8:30pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY Fancy & The Gentlemen (blues), 8pm

EULOGY

Emo Night Brooklyn (Emo), 8pm FLEETWOOD’S

Not Your Daddy's Trivia (punk), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Clouds of Delusion (grateful dead tribute), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD

PUB

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

• All Crawfish Go to Heaven (bluegrass, blues), 8:30pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING CO

• Finkelstein Three (bluegrass), 2pm

• ALR Trio (Americana, blues, rock), 6:30pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO

Carolina Drifters (altcountry), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING

Del Rio Trio (jazz, latin jazz, reggae), 7pm ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Josh Daniel & Friends: The Last Waltz Experience (rock, soul), 8pm

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT BREWING CO.

Don’t Tell Comedy, 8pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Billingsley (rock’n’roll), 10:30pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

My Magnificent Nemesis (jazz, rock), 9pm

SWEETEN CREEK

BREWING

Jennifer Allsbrook (multi-genre), 5pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

The Explorers Club (pop rock, rock), 6pm

THE CROW & QUILL

Meschiya Lake & The Moodswingers (jazz), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Rick Hornyak & The Highway Companions (Americana, rock), 7pm THE ODD Party Foul Drag at The Odd (drag), 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Julianna Jade (indie, soul), 6pm

• Allegheny Mountain Boys (bluegrass), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Rumours ATL (Fleetwood Mac tribute), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Telekinetic Yeti w/ DELICIOUS & Goodgoat (doom, psychedelic), 8pm

VOWL BAR AT DSSOLVR

Drip Sweat w/Baby Cousin Tay Tay & DJ Roselle (multi-genre), 9pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

The Music Of Norah Jones & Bonnie Raitt w/Lillie Syracuse (Norah Jones & Bonnie Raitt tribute), 7:30pm

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30

185 KING STREET

Open Electric Jam w/ the King Street House Band (jam), 5pm

BURIAL SOUTH

SLOPE

Mourning Mass, 2pm

DSSOLVR

• Robert’s Totally Rad Trivia, 4pm

• Freshen Up Open Mic Comedy, 7pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Open Mic Night, 6pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa (reggae), 3pm

GINGER'S REVENGE

Jazz Jam Sundays, 2:30pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING CO

The Pond Brothers (art-rock, psychedelic bluegrass), 2pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO

Raphael Graves (country, rock), 4pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

• Suns of Stars Sunday Residency (indie, rock), 2pm

• One Love Sundays (reggae), 7pm

PISGAH BREWING

CO.

Sunday Jam: Spiro & Friends, 6:30pm

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT

BREWING CO.

RAD Cellar Comedy, 7pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

TBH: Turn Up For Your City w/Pastor Troy (hip hop, rap), 9pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

The Moon and You (folk), 2pm

THE GREY EAGLE Amythyst Kiah (alt-rock, country), 7pm

WELL PLAYED BOARD

GAME CAFÉ

Sunday Morning Trivia Brunch, 10:30am

WHITE HORSE BLACK

MOUNTAIN

Pavel Wlosok (jazz, piano), 7:30pm

MONDAY, DECEMBER 1

27 CLUB

Rock Star Karaoke w/ Grimm Morrison, 9pm

ARCHETYPE

BREWING

Singles Game Night or Brazilian Roda Live Music, 4pm

DIATRIBE BREWING

Big Brain Trivia, 7pm

DIRTY JACK'S

Traditional Old Time Jam (folk), 5:30pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Alex Bazemore & Friends, 6pm

HI-WIRE RAD BEER GARDEN

RAD Music Bingo, 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Open Mic Downtown, 7:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Mashup Mondays (funk, jazz, soul), 8pm

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT BREWING CO

Trivia w/Billy, 7pm

SHAKEY'S Live Band Honky Tonk Karaoke, 9pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

The Hot Seat (Comedy), 7pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Mr. Jimmy & Friends (blues), 7pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Aditi & Jay (acoustic), 7pm

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2

185 KING STREET

Travis Book & Shawn Lane Duo (acoustic), 6:30pm

ARCHETYPE BREWING

Trivia Tuesdays, 6:30pm

DIATRIBE BREWING

Irish Session, 3:30pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Robert’s Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

HI-WIRE RAD BEER

GARDEN

RAD Weekly Trivia, 7pm

HI-WIRE SOUTH SLOPE

Trivia Tuesdays w/ Not Rocket Science, 7pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING CO.

Tuesday Night Trivia, 6pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Tuesday Residency w/ Songs From the Road Band, 7pm

SHAKEY'S Booty Tuesday in The Office, 10pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Music Bingo, 7pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA

Open Jam, 8pm

SWEETEN CREEK

BREWING

All Arts Open Mic, 6pm

TAPROOM AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Music Bingo w/Spencer, 6pm

THE BEAT CHURCH

DJ Spirit Animal (multi-genre), 6:45pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR Moonbeatz (country, folk, rock), 6pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Early Tuesday Jam (funk, jazz, rock), 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

All Them Witches w/ King Buffalo (blues, psych, rock), 8pm

THIRD ROOM Open Decks, 8pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Nothin’ But the Blues Jam, 7:30pm

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3

12 BONES BREWING

TAPROOM

Trivia Night w/King Trivia, 7pm

185 KING STREET

Trivia & Karaoke Night, 7pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers Jamgrass Wednesdays (bluegrass), 6:30pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO

Well-Crafted Music Series: Cynthia McDermott (multi-genre), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old-time Jam, 5pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING

CO

Wednesday Night Karaoke, 6pm

PISGAH BREWING CO

Cuberow (Americana, funk, indie), 6pm

PULP

C. Shreve the Professor Presents: Shreve Got Lost (hip hop), 9pm

SHAKEY'S

SSIN w/DJ Ragga Massive, 10pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday (electro-pop), 8pm

SWEETEN CREEK BREWING

Witty Wednesday Trivia w/Ellie, 6:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Bonnie 'Prince' Billy w/ Matt Kivel (country-rock, indie), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Rod Sphere (rock, soul), 6pm

THE MULE

Jazz Trio & Wine Wednesdays (jazz), 6pm

TURGUA BREWING CO

Lightning Round Trivia w/Marty, 6pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Open Mic Night, 6pm

VOWL BAR AT DSSOLVR

Group Therapy w/ Neptune Spins, 9pm

FIRST KAVA BAR IN NORTH CAROLINA

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4

185 KING STREET

Congdon & Co. w/ Hope Griffin (acoustic), 7pm

27 CLUB

Red Die, Number Nine, Junkpunk & The Half That Matters (hardcore, metal, rock), 9pm

DSSOLVR

Hot Couch Karaoke w/ DJ BridalPartiBucardi, 8pm

EDA'S HIDEAWAY

Bless Your Heart Trivia, 7pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead Thursdays, 6pm

GREEN MAN

BREWING

Trivia Night, 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam (bluegrass), 7pm

MAD CO. BREW HOUSE Karaoke Night, 6pm

MILLS RIVER BREWING CO.

Seth & Sara (country), 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Izzi Hughes (acoustic), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Braelyn Grooms (country), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Fee Fi PHaux Fish, 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

KD Groove Alliance (rock, soul), 7pm

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

SIERRA NEVADA

BREWING CO.

The Brothers Comatose (rock), 7pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Auto-Tune Karaoke w/ Who Gave This B!tch a Mic, 10pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Oscar Lindsey, James Eichman, i26connector & Tanner York (goth, indie, rock), 8pm

THE CROW & QUILL

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

THE GREY EAGLE

Make the Yuletide Gay (folk), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT

DOOR

Crimson Moon (rock), 7pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Trivia Night, 6:30pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

MARKETPLACE

Sandra

Jean Barrett

Sandra Jean Barrett, aged 77, passed away November 13, 2025, in Hendersonville, NC. Sandra was born November 4, 1948, in Durham, NC to the late Gertrude Moore. Sandra was a true Renaissance woman who enjoyed weaving, woodworking, sewing, painting, home renovations, interior design, bird watching, restoring antiques, gardening and wallpaper-

ing — which she did professionally for 15 years. Sandra worked as a Federal Criminal Appeals Attorney for over 40 years, fighting hard to maintain the scales of justice. Sandra is preceded in passing by her sister, Carolyn Badilla; nephew, Thomas Roberts; and daughter, Ginger Sams. Sandra is survived by her daughter Claire Barrett and son–in–law Matthew Holley of Hendersonville, NC; sister, Patricia Hyldburg of Durham, NC; nephews, John Carl Badilla of Salt Lake City, UT, and Brian Roberts of Asheville, NC; ex–husband, John Barrett of Sylva, NC. A private memorial service will be held at later date with her loved ones. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations to your local art museum. Sandra lived her life in color, and we ask you to do the same every day. X

52 local nonprofits need your help!

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REAL ESTATE SERVICES

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

RENTALS

MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT

2 BEDROOM 2 BATH

MOBILE Accepting Section 8. $1495 per month. New laminate hardwood floors. West AVL. 2-3 miles from town. On the bus line.Very quiet neighborhood. 828-252-4334

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CONDOS/ TOWNHOMES FOR RENT

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APARTMENT MAINTENANCE HELP NEEDED $25 per hour. Full time. Experience preferred. Electrical and plumbing. The Woods Townhomes. 165 Coleman Ave, 28801. Call Steve on 828-273-9545 or email wncinvestmentgroup@ yahoo.com

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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BEHIND ON YOUR MORTGAGE PAYMENTS? Threatened with foreclosure?  Denied a loan modification? Let us help! Call the Homeowner Relief Line to speak with a mortgage specialist 844-492-0883

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind today at 1-855869-7055 today! (NC Press)

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PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-866-381-0627 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (AAN CAN)

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WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION A small amount of water can lead to major damage and mold growth in your home. We do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! For a free estimate, call

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WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Call today for your fair cash offer: 1-919-925-6362. (NC Press)

WE BUY VINTAGE GUITARS

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

WE BUY VINTAGE GUITARS! Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a

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Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees canceled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 888-960-1781. (AAN CAN)

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LEGALS

AUTO AUCTION

PUBLIC AUCTION Saturday, December 6th @10am 201 S. Central Ave.  Locust, NC. Selling Classic Cars, Vehicles, Kubota MX5400 Loader Tractor, Equipment, Tools, Guns, Coins, Knife Collections, Restored 1971 "El Camino." ClassicAuctions.com 704-7918825   NCAF5479. (NC Press)

ACROSS

1 Spots for cozy dates

6 Slope

10 What A’s and B’s are good for

13 Person with terrible manners

14 Broadway great Menzel

16 Nickname that’s an alternative to Cam

17 Some basic guidelines [2, Spanish]

19 Nonprofit’s domain name ender

20 Paris agreement

21 Take to court

22 Act smart

24 Molecule with a non-unique formula

26 Fluorescent gemstone [4, Danish and Norwegian]

27 “Girls” creator Dunham

28 Slightly

30 Some parallel bars

31 Agrees (with)

33 Rarely visited places on earth

34 Climactic baseball event …  or what the starts of 17-, 26-, 44- and 52-Across form?

36 “Breaking Bad” sister-in-law

37 Touches and Shuffles

38 Black prom rentals

39 Bubbly bar

40 Idiomatic sticking point

44 Chemist who co-discovered 26-Down [8, Italian]

46 It’s controlled in meditation

48 Food spread popular in England

49 Levi’s competitor

50 Toilet paper thickness

51 ___ out of house and home

52 Carpe diem [16, French]

55 Picasso’s “___ Demoiselles d’Avignon”

56 A little under half of humanity

57 Entertain

58 Establishes what is, informally

59 ___ best friend

60 Sidekick of Dora the Explorer

DOWN

1 Natural remedy that’s used to treat anxiety

2 Make hot and bothered

3 Kind of cuisine

4 Traveler’s info, informally

5 Electroreception, for sharks

6 Jaunt on a hay wagon, e.g.

7 “Me!”

8 “You got that right!”

12 Watchful guardians

15 Part of a belt

18 Built to last 23 Gel

25 David Bowie’s astronaut persona

Atomic reaction co-discovered by 44-Across 29 Word with flower or feather 32 Expression such as “Top o’ the mornin’” 33 Certain sports wager

9 Key to search with, maybe 10 Fans of a band 11 Whirling visual effects in video games

34 Sara Bareilles musical set in a diner

35 Clean water org.

36 Shape-shifted