Mountain Xpress 02.21.24

OUR 30TH YEAR OF WEEKLY INDEPENDENT NEWS, ARTS & EVENTS FOR WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA VOL. 30 NO. 30 FEB. 21-27, 2024

MOUNTAINX.COM

FEB. 21-27, 2024

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C ONTENT S

A&C

WELLNESS

NEWS

FEATURES 13 CITY BEAT Council approves downtown restroom project after heated debate

20 COOLER HEADS Law enforcement undergoes crisis intervention training

PAGE 6 ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER DOLLAR According to Just Economics of Western North Carolina, which has been calculating the local living wage since 2008, a single person working full time in Buncombe County needs to make $22.10 per hour to afford basic expenses. Other organizations, including Living Wage for US and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, show an increasing living wage in Buncombe County as well.

COVER PHOTO iStock COVER DESIGN Scott Southwick

22 CRAFTING SOLUTIONS ArtsAVL surveys the creative community

A&C

MANAGING EDITOR: Thomas Calder EDITORS: Lisa Allen, Jessica Wakeman ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR: Thomas Calder OPINION EDITOR: Tracy Rose STAFF REPORTERS: Edwin Arnaudin, Thomas Calder, Chase Davis, Andy Hall, Justin McGuire, Greg Parlier, Brooke Randle, Jessica Wakeman COMMUNITY CALENDAR & CLUBLAND: Andy Hall, Braulio Pescador-Martinez CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Mindi Friedwald, Peter Gregutt, Rob Mikulak REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Oby Arnold, Mark Barrett, Eric Brown, Carmela Caruso, Cayla Clark, Kristin D’Agostino, Brionna Dallara, Storms Reback, Kay West

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NEWS

ADVERTISING, ART & DESIGN MANAGER: Susan Hutchinson

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Poetry Contest

PUBLISHER & EDITOR: Jeff Fobes

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Xpress announces its 2024 poetry contest in celebration of April as National Poetry Month.

Are you a poet living in Western North Carolina? If so, consider submitting an original, previously unpublished work. This year’s theme is on finding our shared humanity in Western North Carolina. Let us know where you go or what you do to connect with others who may have different theological, political or social beliefs. Bonus points to those who submit poems that avoid the actual term “shared humanity.”

All poems should be no longer than one typed page in a 12-point font.

Again, only previously unpublished poems will be considered. No A.I. generated poems are allowed.

The contest is currently open for submissions and will close at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20. Email your poem in the body of the message to tcalder@mountainx.com. The subject line should read “Xpress 2023 poetry contest.” Include the author’s name and contact information in the email. Only one submission per person. There is no cost to enter.

A winning poem will be determined by local poet and essayist Brit Washburn.

The winner will be published online and in print in the final issue of our annual Sustainability series on Wednesday, April 24. The contest is not open to Xpress employees or their families, or freelance contributors.

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MOUNTAINX.COM

FEB. 21-27, 2024

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OPINION

Send your letters to the editor to letters@mountainx.com.

Vote — and make sure your vote counts The North Carolina primary election date is March 5; absentee ballots are being mailed to voters and processed by boards of elections; and early voting/same-day registration started Feb. 15.

There are a number of changes that have been instituted, including a voter photo ID requirement. Too much information? It is a lot but maybe not enough.

How is a voter to keep track of all of this? Never fear — the League of Women Voters is here! We are strictly nonpartisan and never endorse or oppose candidates. Our VOTE411 [avl.mx/dd3] tool is the one stop for all you need to know about voting — how to vote, where and when to vote, who is running. You can use it on your smartphone, tablet or desktop; voting information is in English and Spanish. VOTE411 allows you to see what is on your ballot and print a ballot with your choices that you can bring to the polls.

There is also information on the candidates. For Buncombe, Madison and McDowell counties, our league has contacted candidates in competitive races and asked them to provide information about themselves and their views on issues. To date, not all have responded, but we continue to encourage them to do so. Voters deserve to know where they stand.

Make a plan to vote and follow through. Encourage your friends, neighbors, colleagues and family to do the same. Remember — your vote is your voice, and we want to make sure all voices are heard.

— Suzanne Fisher President, League of Women Voters Asheville-Buncombe County Black Mountain

Last call for election letters

C A RT O O N B Y R AN DY M O L T O N

Edwards’ legislation hasn’t helped WNC Republican Congressman Chuck Edwards has been campaigning heavily with a misleading TV ad about how he is helping WNC law enforcement because he co-sponsored H.R. 467, the HALT Fentanyl Act, and has helped the border crisis by voting for H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act. Neither of these bills have passed into law. Trump, who seems to control the Republicans, wouldn’t let them.

Only three of Edwards’ co-sponsored bills have actually become law: H.J. Res. 26, approving a criminal code for Washington, D.C.; H.R. 1096, approving minting of coins for the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps; and H.R. 5110, authorizing elementary and high schools to use funds to purchase weapons to teach shooting sports. None of Edwards’ co-sponsored laws are helping law enforcement or anyone else in Western North Carolina.

Republican colleagues who have co-sponsored nearly 200 bills with Edwards include MAGA Republicans Lauren Boebert, Andy Biggs, Jim Jordan, Matt Gaetz and Troy Nehls.

Chuck Edwards should remember the adage “You are the company you keep,” but maybe he already is.

— John H. Fisher Hendersonville

Haw Creek rezoning is not in community’s best interest The need for additional housing in the Asheville area has been well documented, so the potential for new home construction in our area is welcomed. However, the conditional zoning request by Kevin Jackson for The Meadows at Haw Creek, to rezone 26 acres of farm and forested land in the Haw Creek community from RS-4 (four units per acre) to zoning that would allow 95 homes, is clearly in conflict with the community’s interests.

Most importantly, the request is in direct conflict with Asheville’s comprehensive plan that was just completed in 2018. Residents of the Haw Creek community participated in the planning process and fully expected that the basic tenets of the plan would be adhered to in future rezoning requests.

There were six main themes in the comprehensive plan that laid out the key ideas for the city’s future growth and development. The proposed project — rezoning from the allowed 49 homes to 95 homes and removing 80% of the mature trees — would not meet any of the themes in the plan as outlined below.

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The Livable Built Environment theme included directing future growth to identified growth areas, improving quality of development, enhancing preservation of neighborhood character and historic resources, increasing walkability and bikeable infrastructure, and improving ease of getting around.

The Harmony with the Natural Environment theme included supporting growth synergies between the built and natural environment, and fostering resilient redevelopment that is responsive to climate change.

A Resilient Economy theme included increasing affordable housing (note the homes would be sold at market rates) and promoting the public interest across the built environment.

A Healthy Community theme included enhancing the public safety of the public realm. The Interwoven Equity theme included expanding neighborhood planning and supporting strategies for livability and connectivity. The sixth theme, Responsible Regionalism, included preserving and celebrating regional environmental systems.

Again, the proposed conditional zoning request would violate all these planning recommendations.

Lastly, as part of the comprehensive planning process, the city asked local neighborhoods what their main concerns were related to future growth, and these were captured in the Neighborhood Plans on a Page (Appendix C, a guide for the city to use in setting priorities and facilitating improvements for residents). In 2018, the Haw Creek community highlighted inadequate infrastructure, walkability/bikeability, stormwater management, access to recreation/green space, traffic and infill housing concerns. All these concerns would be exasperated by the proposed rezoning.

As an Asheville and Haw Creek resident, I must ask our City Council members: Why would you approve a rezoning that is so openly opposed by the community and in direct conflict with a well-thought-out comprehensive plan?

The Haw Creek community is not opposed to all development — we have supported both apartment and new home developments in the past.

So, this is not a NIMBY situation. Our residents simply want reasonable development that meets the vision of a healthy, livable and connected community. I urge the City Planning and Zoning Commission and ultimately the City Council to reject the proposed conditional zoning request for The Meadows at Haw Creek.

— Doug Baughman Asheville

CARTOON BY BRENT BROWN

Focus on what makes area inviting No market research necessary: In order to encourage locals and visitors to enjoy our environs, it is essential to give more attention to what makes a space inviting.

Include friendly, helpful people actually attending the paid parking lots we now have dotted all over. Patrons will feel secure, knowing their vehicles and belongings are being looked after in their absence and be likely to spend more time and dollars in the venues!

Also, provide free shuttles during events/daylight hours so that those living just outside the city limits or those not needing to park nearby can park safely in attended lots while they partake in restaurants, galleries and shops.

And what about bringing back clean, tasteful waste and recycling canisters (that are emptied regularly), making it easy to dispose of one’s used cups and such instead of expecting people to carry their litter with them back home.

It is not a trail or hiking experience people are looking for when they are in an urban setting.

There is much opportunity here with what we already have without spending millions more. Simple works: Make things inviting, and they will come.

— Libi Libner Candler

BCS book ban will backfire [Regarding “BCS Board Bans Book from All District High Schools.” Feb. 14, Xpress:] Congratulations! By banning this book, the county schools have just made it very popular and sought after by many students, and guess what? The students will obtain it somehow and read it without their parents ever knowing.

This has been happening for decades and is why bans don’t work.

Well done!

— Cynthia Heil Asheville

An argument for year-round schools Research shows that the average public school student loses approximately 25% of the previous year’s reading skillset during the three months of summer break. For math, the loss is 30%.

American students spend approximately 180 days a year in structured instruction in our public schools. In Japan, the figure is 220 days. Those 40 extra days of instruction per year add up to over 500 days in a kindergarten through grade 12 public education.

These extra days in Japan are part of an instruction model that lasts all year

long, with breaks in a trimester system that are significantly shorter than in the United States.

The research on the Japanese model demonstrates significantly greater retention from one break period to the next. For numerous reasons, this is a model that should be followed by public schools in the United States.

First and foremost is the increased quality and quantity of learning that would take place among American students. Second, because most public school students have working parents, it reduces the amount of time that parents need to find alternative supervision for their children. Third, the physical facilities, primarily in the form of classrooms, would be better utilized, as opposed to long periods of dormancy. Fourth, it would make the teaching profession a 12-month rather than a nine-month job and therefore significantly increase the remuneration rate for educators.

Currently, college-educated licensed professionals are on the low end of this pay scale compared with individuals in other professions with similar requirements. With competitive salaries, more individuals would choose education as a career, and the five-year attrition rate would significantly decrease.

Our local public schools in Asheville and Buncombe County need to be at the front of the pack when it comes to best practices. Providing a new model of year-round schooling with more

days of education and shorter breaks is a good place to start.

— Richard Boyum Candler

Site would be ideal for homeless shelter While sitting in traffic jams on Patton Avenue, I often wonder why the city doesn’t try to purchase the old Kmart shopping center at Louisiana Avenue.

It has sat there for years, empty.

It would seem to be an ideal location to house homeless people. It’s accessible to many bus routes; it’s near lots of businesses for job opportunities; and there are not many neighbors nearby to complain.

I heard it’s owned by Ingles. Maybe they could be convinced to donate it, or they could lease it to the city at a low rate.

The lot would seem to be large enough to accommodate both indoor shelters and more open, “low-barrier” spaces. Hopefully, it also would have a community kitchen.

— Joan Jordan Alexander Editor’s note: According to an October WLOS story, Ingles has until May to apply for building permits for the site, or the company would have to launch its conditional zoning approval process again. X

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FEB. 21-27, 2024

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NEWS

Another day, another dollar By several metrics, Asheville’s living wage keeps going up

BY GREG PARLIER gparlier@mountainx.com No matter whom you ask, the living wage — the minimum amount a single worker must earn to cover basic needs without outside help — is going up in Buncombe County.

According to Just Economics of Western North Carolina, which has been calculating the local living wage since 2008, a single person working full time in Buncombe County needs to make $22.10 per hour to afford basic expenses. That’s a $2 increase over last year’s rate and more than double what it was when it was first calculated 17 years ago.

In fact, it’s rising so quickly, Just Economics added a tiered certification last year so employers could be listed even if they couldn’t quite keep up. The certification program allows businesses to remain in the Living Wage Program if they agreed to pay a “pledged rate” of $19 an hour while committing to annual increases toward the new $22.10 rate.

“Certainly, we understand that local businesses that are trying to keep up with the living wage rate are challenged by an increase in labor costs when a lot of multinational corporations … have advantages to some extent. And so we applaud employers that are keeping up with a living wage rate and employers that are working to do that,” says Vicki Meath, executive director of Just Economics. “We are working to make sure that we are balancing both what’s feasible for employers [with] what it actually costs for employees to live here.”

GOING UP: As the cost of housing in Buncombe County rises, the living wage follows, according to certifier Just Economics of WNC. Another national certifier has also seen the living wage rise in Buncombe County, even though it considers a more complex calculation of various metrics. Graph by Scott Southwick Businesses already certified with Just Economics renew their certifications every two years, typically in March, Meath says. If they are certified at the pledged rate, they must increase wages 3% plus inflation each year, until they reach the certified rate.

For J.B. McKibben, president of McKibben Equities, which manages 100 hospitality properties around the country, including three in Asheville,

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says the group sets pay rates differently based on each market.

“Different markets and cities have different priorities, and in Asheville, a living wage has been a focus for the city for some time, along with affordable housing,” he says.

Other living wage calculators, including those from independent certifier Living Wage for US and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, show an increasing living wage in Buncombe County as well.

RISING COST OF HOUSING In Asheville, the biggest driver of unaffordability is housing.

“One of the reasons that this program was initiated to begin with is because the cost of housing is out of alignment with wages in our community, and we still see this. We have the highest fair-market rents in the state. But we do not have wages that are competing with other metropolitan areas like Charlotte, Raleigh and other places,” Meath says.

Fair-market rent, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, has increased

87% since 2019 in the Asheville area, an “explosive change” that has significantly affected the local labor market, according to Just Economics.

Fair-market rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Buncombe County in 2024 is $1,496 a month, compared with $1,298 just last year, according to HUD. Because many landlords require tenants to earn three times the rent amount, Just Economics bases its living wage rate on that concept, using HUD’s fair-market rent as a baseline.

“We believe that a living wage must be rooted in a worker’s ability to live in the region,” Meath says.

BUSINESSES ON BOARD In Buncombe, 444 businesses have signed on with Just Economics’ Living Wage Program, driving about $20 million in wage increases over 17 years, Meath estimates.

Pisgah Brewing Co. in Black Mountain signed up in the very beginning.

“Part of it’s doing the right thing and not taking advantage of people.

Part of it is when I offer good wages, I

turn these positions into careers versus jobs,” says Pisgah owner Dave Quinn.

Quinn says maintaining a living wage has always been important to his business, and he appreciates the guidance Just Economics provides in setting wages.

“I take their input, and I look at what’s going on in the world, and look at what we can afford and the performance of our people, and just do our best.”

The program is also attractive to newer businesses, like Nuthatch Garden Services, based in Asheville, which joined in July.

“No. 1, we are committed to sustainability and sustainable business practices and sustainable gardening practices. We definitely want to look at the whole picture of social sustainability and economic sustainability.

So it’s just really important that we feel like we’re all paying ourselves a living wage,” says owner Gwen Hill.

Nuthatch aims to be a leader in its industry on wages, Hill adds, “because it’s really important for people to be able to live.”

Other long-term certified businesses are acutely aware of the challenges of keeping up with an ever-rising wage. At Affordable Bedding, rising overhead costs have put strains on the business’s ability to maintain viability, while competition from businesses that pay their workers less puts pressure on owners to reconsider their own certification, says President Patrick McMahon.

Ultimately, sustained sales have allowed the Patton Avenue bedding business to maintain its certification for more than 20 years, he says.

For McKibben Hospitality, which operates Aloft Asheville Downtown, AC Hotel Asheville Downtown and Kimpton Hotel Arras, an emphasis has been put on wages at its Asheville properties, the only locations in its portfolio where a certified living wage is paid, says McKibben.

“I do believe the certification has had some positive impact on hiring and recruitment; however, I believe a larger impact comes from our benefits package and company culture,” he says.

Generally, McKibben strives to pay in the 75th percentile in average wages by position at other locations, but it pays in the 100th percentile in Asheville, partly because of the community’s emphasis on paying a living wage, he says.

For employees, working for less than a living wage means relying on credit cards or multiple jobs to get by, says Bri Snyder, a longtime

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N EWS barista in Asheville who now works full time at Whole Foods. (Snyder uses they/them pronouns.)

Snyder struggled to get by in the past, even at living wage-certified coffee shops because they don’t offer Snyder full-time hours, leaving them scrambling to work second jobs, Snyder says.

Still, when a business can say it maintains its living wage certification, it’s one sign that it considers workers’ needs, vital to a healthy work environment, Snyder says.

A DIFFERENT APPROACH While Just Economics bases its living wage on housing for a single adult, groups such as Living Wage for US and MIT use different metrics.

According to Living Wage for US, which released its new rates in November, Buncombe County’s living wage is $24.08 per hour. That is based on what it would cost two working adults with two children to live in the Buncombe County area, taking several criteria into consideration.

MIT, which updates its calculation every two years, has not yet announced 2024 rates. It put the living wage for a single adult with

“We believe that a living wage must be rooted in a worker’s ability to live in the region.”

— Vicki Meath, executive director of Just Economics of WNC no children in Buncombe County at $19.62 in 2022. For two working adults with two children, MIT says each worker would need $27.70 to afford bills in Buncombe County.

Meath expects those numbers to go up this year.

While MIT does not have a certification program like the other two, all three generally operate with similar guiding principles. The goal is to raise the wage floor for workers so they can afford a “decent but basic standard of living,” including necessities like housing, health care, child care, food and clothing on one full-time job, Meath says. More than 40% of workers nationally make less than $15 an hour, which is lower than a living wage for most of the country, according to Living Wage for US. “If you really boil down the living wage movement overall, what it’s looking at is what are the things that are sort of considered human rights,

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where everyone should be able to have access to those opportunities, and what do those things cost,” says Michelle Murray, CEO of Living Wage for US. Murray, who has more than a decade of experience working to define and promote living wages around the world, says that Just Economics’ method works on a local level, but isn’t scalable across the country or world.

Living Wage for US aims to create a standard living wage calculation that all businesses can refer to, regardless of location, and is recruiting Just Economics to join the movement.

INTERNATIONAL STANDARD Living Wage for US was launched in November 2021 to create a “internationally comparable and locally specific” living wage certification program.

Based on data from the Economic Policy Institute, Living Wage for US considers the cost of housing, food, transportation, health insurance, out-of-pocket health care costs and retirement to come up with its living wage rate. Certain benefits, such as health care, retirement or child care, are considered when tailoring a specific rate for each employer seeking certification.

Murray says she considers a living wage rate to be what it costs for two working adults with two children to live in an area, instead of a single adult, because having children should be a decision made by people, not pocketbooks.

“We want to make sure workers can support themselves and their families.

We sort of have a sense that if you

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can’t feed your kids, can we really talk about this being a living wage at the end of the day?” asks Murray.

Businesses seeking certification with Living Wage for US pay a startup fee and annual membership based on the size of the company.

In exchange, they get a personalized rate based on geography and benefits provided to employees.

For example, businesses that offer employees a health care benefit can pay a lower living wage rate, as determined by complex calculations performed by Living Wage for US. Businesses also can earn a credit on personalized wage rates for providing employees retirement benefits or a stipend to spend on child care or transportation, according to Living Wage’s website.

Living Wage for US also considers the cost of commuting.

Asheville’s commuting zone includes Madison, Haywood, Henderson and Transylvania counties. Because of that, the metric uses housing costs in Haywood, the lowest in the area.

Otherwise, Buncombe’s calculated living wage would be $33.23 per hour, according to Living Wage for US. Murray argues that using commuting zones in addition to the nuanced breakdown of categories adding up to a living wage gives workers more choice on how to define what’s most important to them.

“We’re saying you could have a family and [live in] the lowest-cost county in a commuting zone. But you might choose not to have a family,” Murray says. “Then you can probably afford to live in the higher-cost counties where you might be able to walk or bike to work. There’s always worker choice.”

Living Wage for US has 40 certified companies enrolled in its program nationwide and about 400 working to get certified, Murray says. She attributes more than $250 million in wage increases to the program and hopes to grow that number by partnering with grassroots certifiers like Just Economics that have extensive local buy-in in their home jurisdictions.

“The future of the living wage is really to align all of these methods so that there aren’t contradictions in what those numbers are. But we support using benchmarks for your wage rates.”

For McKibben, who says he also reviews MIT’s program, the priority to pay workers at his company’s Buncombe properties a living wage will remain, no matter what standard is used.

“We are open to alternative methodology. However, one thing that will not change is our commitment to paying a living wage,” he says. X

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FEB. 21-27, 2024

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NEWS

‘Unresponsive in a hallway bed’ CMS report on Mission Hospital details deaths of patients, significant delays in care

BY ANDREW JONES AN ASHEVILLE WATCHDOG REPORT bark@avlwatchdog.org At least three patients died and others were endangered at Mission Hospital in 2022 and 2023 following significant delays and lapses of care in the emergency department and other areas, according to a scathing U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services report obtained Feb. 15 by Asheville Watchdog.

The 384-page document details why CMS placed the hospital in immediate jeopardy, the most serious sanction a hospital can face. It spotlights not only patient deaths and long delays in care but also a lack of available rooms, a lack of governing bodies “responsible for the conduct of the hospital,” and multiple leadership failures.

“The hospital’s leadership failed to ensure a medical provider was responsible for monitoring and ensuring the delivery of care to patients presenting to the emergency department,” the report states.

Hospital leadership also “failed to ensure emergency care and services were provided according to policy” and “failed to ensure adverse events were documented, tracked, trended and analyzed in order to implement preventive actions and identify success of actions taken.”

While the report focuses on issues in the emergency department, it also described deficiencies in care in other areas, including the oncology unit, where it said a patient received expired chemotherapy. It also described an incident in the behavior health unit in which a child was given medication without authorization from a parent or guardian.

The report also includes Mission’s plan of correction, which it was required to submit or face loss of its Medicare and Medicaid funding, a significant threat to its financial viability.

“We are pleased that CMS has accepted our plan of correction,” Mission health spokesperson Nancy Lindell said on Feb. 15. “Mission Health began implementing changes based on preliminary findings shared in December.

We are pleased to hear from our EMS partners and patients that those actions are yielding positive results, including decreased wait times for care.

“Again, these findings are not the standard of care we expect, nor that our patients deserve, and we are working 10

FEB. 21-27, 2024

BREAKDOWN: The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services report on Mission Hospital chronicles numerous breakdowns and delays in care. The report also details the deaths of at least three patients in the emergency department or intensive care unit. Photo courtesy of Asheville Watchdog diligently to ensure Mission Hospital successfully serves the needs of the Western North Carolina community.”

The report chronicles numerous breakdowns and delays in care and details the deaths of at least three patients in the emergency department or intensive care unit.

PATIENT #2: ‘DELAYED TRIAGE, CARE, AND TREATMENT’ The report lists a 66-year-old male as patient #2, who was brought into the ED shortly before 6 p.m. on Oct. 17, 2023, with chest pain after fainting at home. A physician assistant interviewed in the report said there were no rooms available when the man arrived.

That PA “saw the patient while in the hallway and placed orders.”

The PA’s interview also revealed “the patient had not been triaged, he was still in the hall,” the report states.

“The provider ordered labs at [6:41 p.m.] (48 minutes after Patient #2 arrived), and the labs were not collected by nursing staff until [7:20 p.m.] (39

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minutes after the lab were ordered), after the patient was triaged at [7 p.m.]

(1 hour and 7 minutes after arrival).”

Patient #2 was on a cardiac monitor and received vital signs by EMS until triage at 7 p.m., according to the report, but no hospital EKG was obtained until 7:05 p.m, 24 minutes after ordered and one hour and 12 minutes after the patient arrived at the hospital.

At 7:53 p.m., amid other delays, a physician responded to the patient’s bedside because the patient was having a heart attack. “CPR was started and the patient expired,” the report states. A doctor interviewed in the report said efforts to resuscitate the man lasted for about 30 minutes.

“Nursing staff failed to accept the patient upon arrival to the ED, resulting in delayed triage, care and treatment,” the report states.

PATIENT #29: LEFT ALONE AND UNMONITORED IN HALLWAY In another case, patient #29, a 78-year-old woman, arrived at the hos-

pital via EMS at 2:51 p.m. on April 5, 2022, with abnormal heart rhythms.

She had fallen at home and had an open fracture of her right shin bone.

A pulse oximetry reading in the ambulance was 94%, but no oxygen was administered. Another pulse oximetry reading more than an hour and a half later was even lower, at 90%, but again no oxygen was given.

Nurses gave her narcotic pain medication at 4:30 p.m. and 6:16 p.m., but did not take her vital signs or check her oxygen levels afterward.

Shortly after 7 p.m., “the patient was subsequently found unresponsive in a hallway bed, in asystole” — also known as flatlined, indicating no heart activity — “and expired.” The report did not say why the patient had been left alone and unmonitored in the hallway.

“Nursing staff failed to reassess the patient after narcotic administration. Nursing staff failed to monitor and evaluate the patient for a change in condition (not breathing),” the report concluded.

PATIENT #83: A “POTENTIALLY LIFE-THREATENING REQUEST,” THEN DELAYS

He added that “HCA egregiously understaffed the hospital, not just the ER, and it is understandable why over 50% of the ER nurses leave every year.

Senior leaders who put the policies that imperiled and harmed patients in place need to be held accountable.”

NCDHHS inspections on behalf of CMS occurred at the hospital Nov. 13-17, Nov. 27-Dec. 1, and Dec. 4-9.

Beginning Nov. 14, while inspectors were at the hospital, The Watchdog reported, Mission offered extra shifts to doctors in the emergency department and on Nov. 20, halted some patient transfers from other hospitals, which reduced the burden on staff.

As The Watchdog was first to report, HCA Healthcare N.C. Division President Greg Lowe announced the finding of immediate jeopardy in an email to Mission’s staff Feb. 2.

Mission has until Saturday, Feb. 24 to get the hospital out of immediate jeopardy. The state will visit soon to make sure the hospital is in compliance.

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Mission’s plan of correction states that the hospital began to make changes on Dec. 1.

Those included a memo to all medical staff setting expectations around responsiveness to emergent patients.

Asheville Watchdog detailed the email in an exclusive story on Dec. 12. At the time of the story, Lindell described the memo to The Watchdog as “a point of clarification to our team and is not new information.”

The plan states that the hospital is making permanent changes to procedures and has required staff to undergo training sessions. It also describes a series of new lab order processes and the deployment of additional equipment, such as a monitor to “Air Traffic Control (ATC) desk to display and allow total visibility of ER patients with unassigned beds in waiting room, EMS entrance and pre-arrivals.”

The plan also states that the hospital’s governing body “will provide oversight of the plan of correction implementation and sustained improvements.”

Mission nurses have said for years that HCA has purposefully understaffed numerous departments and refused to provide necessary resources for the hospital to function safely.

Nurses had sent formal complaints to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services since early 2022, some about transfer procedures in the hospital’s emergency department that they

contended endangered patients, The Watchdog reported in late August. At that time, NCDHHS had not visited the hospital, citing its own staff shortages.

Mark Klein, a vascular nurse who serves in a leadership role with the hospital’s nurses union and who helped bring several complaints about systemic and leadership failures to light in 2023, said his initial impression of the CMS report was one of “heartbreak, and, sadly validation.”

Klein remains sharply critical of the leadership of Mission and HCA Healthcare, which purchased the hospital system for $1.5 billion in 2019.

“We did the right thing by bringing HCA’s horrific, injurious, profitcentric care models to the attention of regulatory authorities,” Klein said. “I believe HCA is sincere in its desire to remove the immediate jeopardy status to ensure the protection of income streams. I do not think HCA leadership is sincere about transformative change.”

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MISSION ISSUES PLAN OF CORRECTION

SIGNED: Mark Klein has been a nurse at Mission Hospital since 1999 and signed two complaint letters that were sent to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. Watchdog photo by Starr Sariego

••••

A 74-year-old woman with dizziness arrived in the emergency department from her doctor’s office at 12:16 p.m. on Nov. 28, 2023. A blood workup was ordered stat, “an emergent, potentially life-threatening request,” the report said. But her blood was not drawn for another hour and 40 minutes, and the results came back three hours and 14 minutes after the original order.

The patient’s lab work showed a critically high glucose level. An infusion of insulin was ordered but not initiated for an hour and 13 minutes. “Orders for continuous ECG (heart) monitoring placed at [12:18 p.m] and vital signs every 2 hours ordered at [5:39 p.m.] were never initiated,” the report said.

A lactic acid blood test ordered in the emergency department was not done until the patient was moved to an inpatient bed, nine hours and 41 minutes later. That test revealed a critically high level. The patient was moved to an intensive care unit and placed on a ventilator.

She died at 1:37 p.m. on Nov. 30.

Immediate jeopardy is rare, according to a 2021 study from the National Library of Medicine, which reviewed 30,808 hospital deficiencies between 2007-17. Only 2.4%, or 730, of those resulted in immediate jeopardy, according to the study.

Separately, N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein filed a lawsuit against HCA Dec. 14, alleging it failed to comply with two of 15 commitments made when it bought the Mission Health system for $1.5 billion in 2019.

Specifically, those commitments were related to keeping services in the emergency department and cancer care program open and running.

While Stein alleges that systemic breakdowns leading to exiting doctors and curbed care measures have constituted breaches of the commitments, Mission contended in a Feb. 15 response to Stein’s lawsuit that it had upheld its end of the deal and, furthermore, wasn’t required by the purchase contract to provide quality care in the first place.

The asset purchase agreement — the legal contract of the sale of Mission to HCA — is “silent as to the quantity or quality of services required” at Mission Hospital, lawyers for HCA wrote in their response. “The contractual language, as well as the underlying negotiations, demonstrate that Mission’s Hospital Service Commitments are not promises to meet subjective health care standards,” the response stated.

HCA maintains that it provides quality care. “Fact: The quality of care at Mission Hospital is among the best in the nation,” HCA’s website states.

Asheville Watchdog is a nonprofit news team producing stories that matter to Asheville and Buncombe County.

Andrew R. Jones is a Watchdog investigative reporter. Email arjones@ avlwatchdog.org. The Watchdog’s reporting is made possible by donations from the community. To show your support for this vital public service go to avlwatchdog.org/donate. X

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FEB. 21-27, 2024

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CITY BEAT

Council approves downtown restroom project after heated debate Tension was high at the Feb. 13 Asheville City Council meeting as Council members decided the fate of a plan to install a 24-hour, prefabricated restroom unit outside the Rankin Avenue parking garage.

After a somewhat fervent discussion among Council members, the board approved the project, 5-1, with Antanette Mosley opposed.

As previously reported by Xpress, the restroom will be a Portland Loo, a 7-by-10-foot single-stall structure that will provide enough room for a wheelchair, bike or stroller. Capital Projects Director Jade Dundas said the facilities are built to be more resistant to vandalism and easier to clean. The bathroom’s blue interior lighting also makes it difficult for intravenous drug users to find a vein for injection. Additionally, there will be routine after-hours checks by the city’s new parking garage security contractor, Walden Security.

The council approved $183,620 for site enhancements and installation with a contingency amount of $46,724, as well as $170,760 for the restroom itself. The total is $401,104.

The restroom will be funded with $650,000 in American Rescue Plan Act dollars, allocated for the project in May 2022.

The vote, initially scheduled for Council’s Jan. 23 meeting, was delayed after several members asked

Key takeaways • Council voted 5-1 to install a prefabricated bathroom unit outside of the Rankin Avenue parking garage, with council member Antanette Mosley voting in opposition.

• Council unanimously adopted a resolution to pause the acceptance of Land Use Incentive Grant (LUIG) applications until the Affordable Housing Plan recommends a course of action for the program. Recommendations are expected in May. • Council unanimously voted to approve a zoning map amendment request made by Bee Safe Storage for a wine storage and self-storage facility at 492 Sardis Road.

MIXED PRIORITIES: Council member Antanette Mosley, who voted against the restroom project, said she got a call from a community member saying City Council cares more about where people use the restroom than the education of Black children. Screenshot courtesy of the City of Asheville to explore other downtown bathroom options — specifically reopening restrooms at 29 Haywood St. that were closed in 2020. City officials cited increased maintenance costs, drug use and vandalism as causes for its permanent closure.

Cost projections presented to the Council found that upfront expenses were higher for the prefabricated Portland Loo than reopening the Haywood facility, but long-term costs were significantly lower.

“Overall, in a five-year time frame, the costs associated with reopening 29 Haywood St. is significantly higher than the Portland Loo,” said Dundas. “With 24/7 security, the cost would be almost double.”

Dundas noted that adding the prefabricated unit does not prevent reopening the 29 Haywood St. restrooms or installing other free-standing restrooms. He said the city is in early talks with the Asheville Downtown Association, whose offices are near the Haywood Street facilities, to reopen and maintain those bathrooms for daytime usage.

“The expectation would be that the bathrooms would only be open during daytime, weekday hours, when the [Asheville Downtown Association] is

open,” Dundas said. “In that scenario, with no additional security and daytime use only, the total first-year costs for reopening 29 Haywood St. are estimated to be $21,500.”

ARPA priorities The Portland Loo discussion expanded to include a conversation about ARPA funds for PEAK Academy, which requested $590,000 in October to help keep the school open through the rest of the school year. City Manager Debra Campbell said PEAK submitted a written request, but a formal application is still needed to meet federal guidelines for ARPA funds.

Several community members expressed concern that funding the restroom would prevent the Council from being able to support PEAK. Council members stated that the two projects would be considered separately.

“There is a false narrative that this is either/or,” said Council member Kim Roney. “We need funding for public bathrooms and for PEAK Academy. I hope that PEAK provides a path to [do so] and applies for ARPA and/or strategic partnership funds, and I intend to support it.”

Council member Antanette Mosley, the sole opposing vote, said that Council should make clear its support for PEAK funding so that community members don’t continue to think the two projects are competing for funding.

“I got a call from a member of the community saying that we care more about where people take a s*** than we do about Black children,” Mosley said. “I don’t want to leave that impression with the community.”

“How can we as a city even consider the kind of spend on a single toilet for the houseless folks here in Asheville, among others, when Asheville’s education achievement gap is the worst in North Carolina?” asked resident Kimberly Collins during public comment. “PEAK Academy, a school that is actually closing that gap, has made a request. … I am asking that instead of dying on this mountain of a [$650,000] single toilet, that you do consider the request from PEAK in the fullness of the amount that they have asked for.”

While Council briefly discussed delaying the bathroom vote again, Dundas said the city would be forced to rebid for the project, resulting in higher costs and potentially eating further into remaining ARPA funds.

Mayor Esther Manheimer said more conversations around ARPA funding would come at a later date and PEAK was invited to make a formal application. With the approval of the bathroom, about $1 million in ARPA money is left to be allocated.

— Chase Davis X

5-year cost analysis for downtown restrooms • Portland Loo: $594,104 ($504,104 first-year design, survey and construction costs, $22,500 each subsequent year for maintenance) • 24/7 operation of 29 Haywood St. restrooms with night security: $734,000 ($150,000 first year cost, $146,000 each subsequent year) • 24/7 operation of 29 Haywood St. restrooms 24-hour security: $1.15 million ($233,000 first year cost, $229,000 each subsequent year)

MOUNTAINX.COM

FEB. 21-27, 2024

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N EWS

EDUCATION BEAT

Asheville school staff gets promised raises as district faces $4.5 million shortfall Eight months after the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners agreed to raise taxes in order to provide a 2% supplement increase for school staff, employees in the Asheville City Schools district will see the effects of that raise.

The Asheville City Board of Education voted unanimously Feb. 12 to make those raises permanent, despite a projected $4.5 million budget shortfall in 2024-25. ACS Chief Financial Officer Heidi Kerns says staff will receive the raises retroactive to the beginning of the 2023-24 school year. The board vote on raises was delayed because the state’s budget, which funds education, didn’t pass until late September. Kerns, who was hired in October, needed time to review the district’s finances before presenting them to the board, she said.

The board heard pleas from a number of staff members in front of an overflowing boardroom ahead of the vote on whether to make the raises a one-time bonus or a permanent increase.

“The dedicated staff of Asheville City Schools who were struggling financially in February 2023 are still struggling. It’s frustrating because I don’t believe that I need to convince the board that our staff deserves a living wage. I don’t believe that I need to convince you that you should be able to live in the community where you work. I think you agree on this. So I’m just here today to say that this is the moment when I hope that you will agree with some of the agreements that we worked on last year that you pledged to use the money from the commissioners for our local supplements,” said Baily Griffith, a media coordinator at Claxton Elementary.

Pricilla Greene, a second grade teacher who was honored at the start of the meeting for achievements at Lucy Herring Elementary, noted that the board’s applause was not enough to put food on the table.

“Later tonight, you possibly plan to take my money away as if to say, ‘Good job. Go home, pay your rent with applause.’ Or, ‘Thanks for making us look good. Keep doing that while you starve.’ … When the oil company brings the oil to keep me warm for the remainder of the 14

FEB. 21-27, 2024

ALOHA: Students from Lucy S. Herring Elementary School shared their musical talents as members of the school’s first ukulele club at the beginning of the Asheville City Board of Education’s Feb. 12 meeting. Photo by Greg Parlier winter, I’ll be sure to pay them with my compliments,” she added.

The permanence of staff raises was at the center of the board’s debate.

During a work session Feb. 5, Kerns informed the board that it could spend up to $2.1 million this year on teacher supplements without affecting the district’s reserve fund balance.

Next year, however, is a different story. Before the supplement raise was considered, Kerns estimated that the district faces a $3.5 million shortfall in part due to expiring COVID money and shrinking enrollment.

Each percentage point raise in the supplement costs ACS about $500,000, according to district calculations.

“I think we are here for one reason.

Can we pay 2% to our teachers?” asked board member Jesse Warren.

That answer, for now, is yes, although it may force the district to dip into the reserves next year, Kerns warned. The district has $15.2 million in reserve.

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Vice Chair Amy Ray said that was concerning, considering “scary” funding shortfalls happening in districts around the state.

Durham Public Schools’ superintendent and finance director both resigned last week after accounting errors led to the district overpaying staff for months, leading to the school board using half of its reserves to pay staff in the short term, according to the Durham Herald Sun. Also last week, Alamance County officials bailed out a nearly bankrupt Alamance-Burlington School System with $250,000 to prevent dozens of layoffs, as reported by WGHP in Greensboro.

“It drives me crazy what our General Assembly in Raleigh is doing to public education. It drives me bonkers. Especially someone sitting here as a board member, looking at a sea of educators. … It drives me crazy,” said board Chair George Sieburg. “I understand that that cliff coming up,

that shortfall, and yet I don’t from my heart, I don’t know if just a one-time bonus is enough to say to the folks in this room and those who aren’t in this room, ‘We want to do what’s right for you,’” he said.

After the raises, a first-year teacher will get an 11% local supplement, a $780 raise over the previous pay rate. That comes to $43,290 paid over 10 months, according to district documents. The supplement percentage increases based on years of experience, with teachers with more than 15 years of experience getting an 18.5% local supplement annually.

Those numbers closely reflect supplements provided in the neighboring Buncombe County Schools district.

Timothy Lloyd, Asheville City Association of Educators president, told Xpress after the meeting that members of the self-described union will keep fighting for higher pay.

“The members of ACAE are happy but not entirely satisfied. Given the

public comment shared by our members, we know that 2% is a first step.

Everything starts with a first step, and this first step is promising,” he said after the meeting.

ACAE, and eventually the school board, initially asked county commissioners for enough to give teachers a 7% raise, according to Xpress reporting last spring.

School consolidation To help make up some of the district’s upcoming budget shortfall, the board confronted the possible consolidation of two or more of its schools.

Superintendent Maggie Fehrman presented preliminary results of a districtwide enrollment study from Cooperative Strategies, commissioned in November for $28,500 to assess the feasibility of school consolidation. She also is searching for a more permanent home in an ACSowned facility for the Education and Career Academy, currently housed at the Housing Authority of the City of Asheville’s Arthur R. Edington Education and Career Center.

The initial analysis showed that all ACS facilities are under capacity to varying degrees and enrollment has declined by about 600 students since 2014-15 while staffing levels have stayed the same. Fehrman said she has considered several consolidation and reconfiguration options, including eliminating one elementary, middle or high school, or creating a combo K-8, 6-12 or K-12 school.

She outlined the specific advantages and hardships of either moving the district’s smaller middle school, Montford North Star Academy, to Asheville Middle School; relocating it to an elementary school to create a K-8 school; or combining the two middle schools into one larger middle school.

Making no change is “not financially sustainable” for the district, she said.

“My goal is to help identify a good plan that meets the needs of our students but also understanding that we’re going to have to make some changes. There’s just no question about it,” Fehrman said.

The greatest savings — estimated at $1.8 million to $2.3 million — would come from merging the two middle schools, which would eliminate 18 positions through attrition, according to Fehrman’s analysis. The district would only save about $311,000 by moving MNSA to an existing school’s campus without a full merger, she said.

All four of Cooperative Strategies’ projections showed declines in ACS enrollment over the next 10 years of 300 to 1,100 students. It recommended the plan that assumes losing about 800

“The members of ACAE are happy but not entirely satisfied.”

— Timothy Lloyd, Asheville City Association of Educators president students by 2034, which represents 20% of its current student body.

Fehrman plans to continue reorganizing central office staff to maximize efficiency and launch a marketing campaign to increase enrollment at ACS, according to the presentation.

Board member Liza Kelly asked why the district is turning away out-of-district students when all the schools are underenrolled. Out of 212 out-of-district applications in the 2023-24 school year, 28 were denied, according to the presentation.

Fehrman said the district follows board policy for all application denials, some of which include students with special needs that the district can’t meet.

“Our goal is to bring in as many students as we can … because I know the programming that we offer in our schools is phenomenal,” Fehrman said.

On the question of middle school consolidation, board member Rebecca Strimer asked if the two middle school principals were involved in how the district could move forward, including implementing successful programs from each school.

Fehrman said she has started that discussion and planned to involve other staff members and students at the schools who could help integrate programming if the board decided to move in that direction.

Later in the meeting, Fehrman announced that MNSA Principal Shannon Baggett is being promoted to assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. Assistant Principal Miranda Wheeler will serve as the acting principal of the school as it undergoes consolidation consideration.

ACS planned to hold public hearings on middle school consolidation Feb. 19 and 27 at the central office.

Fehrman will present an updated enrollment and capacity study to the board March 4, and a vote on the matter is scheduled for the March 11 board meeting, Fehrman said.

Board passes policies related to new state law After months of discussion, the board unanimously passed policies to comply with the state law that proponents refer to as the “Parents’ Bill of Rights” and critics call the “Don’t Say Gay” law.

Multiple public comment sessions were held over the last month on the

topic, and after multiple revisions, the board opted to comply with the law.

“At its core, we know that the so-called Parents’ Bill of Rights seeks to harm our queer youth and families.

As misguided and obtuse as this legislation is, it is written in such a crafty way that as a school board, our hands have been tied,” said Sieburg after the policies passed. “Whatever policies and practices we as a board and we as a district choose to enact they do nothing to change the harmful effects of this law. Therefore, refusing to pass the policies as a matter of principle would neither negate the law or protect our kids, in our view.”

Craig White, the supportive schools director for the Campaign for Southern Equality, who has spoken out against the law and corresponding policies at both local school board meetings, said while he wished the board had openly refused to comply with the discriminatory aspects of the law, he understood its position.

“I think the ACS board did everything that they could do to reduce the harm in the law without openly defying it,” he said.

White said the board “stripped the most discriminatory language and phrases targeting transgender students out of their policy,” made it clear that treating LGBTQ+ stakeholders differently constitutes discrimination and made it clear that teachers who support LGBTQ+ students have protections in district policy and federal law for doing so.

The board also moved much of the law’s elements to district procedures, rather than policies, allowing for more flexibility for staff to work with students and families on a case-by-case basis, White added.

CSE has launched a federal Title IX complaint against the N.C. State Board of Education and the Buncombe County Board of Education over the law.

“Personally, I hope that complaint gets its fair day in court. In the meantime, we remain focused on what we as a board can do to support our youth now in the face of the law. And for this board, that means combing through and revising policy language to make sure that our staff and students know their well-being is foremost,” Sieburg said.

The board will discuss reform policy focusing on more protections for students impacted by the state law at its March work sessions, Sieburg added.

— Greg Parlier X

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through June 28, 2024 WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

FEB. 21 - FEB. 29, 2024 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.

American Art in the Atomic Age: 1940–1960 This exhibition features works created during the 1940s–1960s.

Much of the art during this time expressed the uncertainty of the era, often relying on automatism and biomorphic forms.

Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday.

Exhibition through April 29, 2024.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

 Online-only events  More info, page 27  More info, page 28-29 WELLNESS Therapeutic Recreation Adult Morning Movement Active games, physical activities, and sports for individuals with disabilities ages 17 and over. Advanced registration at avlrec. com required.

WE (2/21, 28), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave Tai Chi for Balance A gentle Tai Chi exercise class to help improve balance, mobility, and quality of life. All ages are welcome.

WE (2/21, 28), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Free Zumba Gold Fitness program that involves cardio and Latin-inspired dance.

Free, but donations for the instructor are appreciated. For more information please call (828) 350-2058.

WE (2/21, 28), noon, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Tai Chi for Beginners A class for anyone interested in Tai Chi and building balance, whole body awareness and other health benefits.

TH (2/22, 29), MO (2/26), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Tai Chi Fan This class helps build balance and whole body awareness. All ages and ability levels welcome. Fans will be provided.

WE (2/21, 28), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Dharma & Discuss People coming together in friendship to meditate, learn and discuss the Dharma.

Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome.

TH (2/22), 6:30pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Rob Yamabushi Presents: The Chimera Art Show Opening Reception The show will feature never before seen originals, custom canvas prints, and much more.

Opening reception will feature refreshments and live DJ sets by DJ Tablesaw.

FR (2/23), 7pm, Push Skate Shop & Gallery, 25 Patton Ave

Chair Yoga A gentle yoga practice while seated and/ or with the aid of a chair. Well suited for those who may find other yoga classes too challenging.

TH (2/22, 29), 10am, Asheville Community Yoga Center, 8 Brookdale Rd Nia Dance Fitness A sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts.

TH (2/22, 29), 9:30am, TU (2/27), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Qigong for Health A part of traditional Chinese medicine that involves using exercises to optimize energy within the body, mind and spirit.

FR (2/23), TU (2/27), 9am, SA (2/24), 11am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Yoga for Everyone A free-in person yoga class for all ages and abilities that is led by alternating teachers.

Bring your own mat, water bottle and mask.

Registration required.

SA (2/24), 9:30am, Black Mountain Presbyterian, 117 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Magnetic Minds: Depression & Bipolar Support Group Free weekly peer-led meeting for those living with depression, bipolar, and related mental

CELEBRATING THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK: The John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center at Western Carolina University hosts Sing & Swing: A Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents production on Thursday, Feb. 29. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., featuring both Bria Skonberg and Benny Benack III on trumpet and vocals. Photo courtesy of IMG Artists health challenges. Email depressionbipolarasheville@gmail.com or call or text (828) 367-7660 for more info.

SA (2/24), 2pm, 1316 Ste C Parkwood Rd Wild Souls Authentic Movement w/Renee Trudeau Enjoy release, movement and connection with like-minded women.

SU (2/25), 9:30am, Dunn’s Rock Community Center, 461 Connestee Rd, Brevard Winter Flow w/Jamie Knox This class builds heat in the body and releases excess water, so we can be our strongest and fittest, boosting our immune

system and staving off depression. No need to pre-register.

SU (2/25), 10:30am, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd Yoga Taco Mosa Donation based yoga with Clare Desmelik.

Bring your mat, a water bottle and an open heart.

SU (2/25), 10:30am, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave Gentle Yoga for Queer & GNC Folks This class is centered towards creating an affirming and inclusive space for queer and gender non-conforming individuals.

SU (2/25), 1:30pm, W Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd

Mettā Meditation In-person guided meditation focused on benevolence and loving-kindness. Free and open to beginners and experienced practitioners.

MO (2/26), 7pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Community Yoga & Mindfulness Free monthly event with Inspired Change Yoga that will lead you into a morning of breathwork, meditation and yoga. Bring your own mat.

WE (2/28), 11:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

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The Colton Dion Gallery: Stepping Out The exhibition features an evening filled with intrigue dialogue, and a profound appreciation for the power of art to evoke emotion and provoke thought.

TH (2/22), 6pm, Phil Mechanic Studios, 109 Roberts St

Artwork of Leaflin Lore Winecoff Experience Leaflin's artistic evolution showcased in this exhibition, where diverse works capture the essence of her creative journey spanning the past few years. Gallery open Monday through Friday, 8:30am. Exhibition through March 2.

FR (2/23), 8:30am, John M. Crawford Jr. Gallery, 360 Asheville School Rd Focus Gallery Exhibit: Art of Detailing The Southern Highland Craft Guild opens its first focus gallery exhibition of 2024 with Art of Detailing, featuring both traditional and contemporary craft by five members of the Guild. Open daily, 10am. Exhibition through May 20, 2024.

Folk Art Center, 382 Blue Ridge Pkwy Spark of the Eagle Dancer: The Collecting Legacy of Lambert Wilson This exhibition celebrates the legacy of Lambert Wilson, a passionate collector of contemporary Native American art. Gallery

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

Folk Art Center, 382 Blue Ridge Pkwy Print Pop-Up & In Conversation: Ron Rumford Ron Rumford, director of Dolan/Maxwell will host a print pop-up followed by a In Conversation in support of the Museum’s exhibition American Art in the Atomic Age. SA (2/24), 1pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Counter/Balance: Gifts of John & Robyn Horn A presentation of important examples of contemporary American craft, including woodworking, metalsmithing, fiber and pottery by renowned American artists. Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday.

Exhibition through July.

29, 2024.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Rob Yamabushi Presents: The Chimera Art Show The show will feature never before seen originals, custom canvas prints, and much more. The Chimera is a reference to the multi-headed poly-crisis reality of our modern world. Gallery open Monday through Sunday, noon. Exhibition through March 31.

Push Skate Shop & Gallery, 25 Patton Ave

Bonfire Studio of WNC Guided Art Event A breathtaking sunset paint-n-sip experience with a skilled instructor that will guide you step-by-step as you create your very own misty river masterpiece full of mystery and romance.

MO (2/26), 6pm, French Broad River Brewery, 101 Fairview Rd Vera B. Williams: Stories This retrospective will showcase the complete range of award-winning author and illustrator Vera B. Williams' life and work.

It will highlight her time at Black Mountain College, her political activism in addition to her work as an author and illustrator. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 11am.

Exhibition through May. 11, 2024.

Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St Western North Carolina Glass: Selections from the Collection Western North Carolina is important in the history of American glass art. A variety of techniques and a willingness to push boundaries of the medium can be seen in this selection of works.

Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday.

Exhibition through April 15, 2024.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

COMMUNITY MUSIC Citizen Swing The fun starts with some cool, old jazz vinyl, and then continues with live sets

by Connor Law and Adam Rose.

WE (2/21), 6pm, Citizen Vinyl, 14 O Henry Ave Dark City Songwriter Round: Beth Lee, Darren Nicholson & Brian Hiligoss A new series focusing on talented local, regional, and national songwriters who both write and sing their original compositions.

WE (2/21), 7pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Pianist Brian Turner A renowned composer playing from Bach to Beyonce, Sinatra to Swift, he takes your requests and can play almost anything.

FR (2/23), 7pm, The Omni Grove Park Inn, 290 Macon Ave Ryan ‘RnB’ Barber Barber is a proud staple of Asheville’s legendary music scene, at the forefront of its funk and R&B community.

FR (2/23), 7pm, LEAF Global Arts, 19 Eagle St

Garius Hill w/ MuseCycle A special evening of music featuring jazz pianist and composer Garius Hill. He'll be joined by drummer Jeff Tippins and Byron Hedgepeth on vibes.

SA (2/24), 7pm, Citizen Vinyl, 14 O'Henry Ave Mark's House Jam & Beggar's Banquet Potluck Bring an open heart and potluck dish to share with an amazing community of local musicians from around the globe. Please note that this isn't an open mic.

SU (2/25), 3pm, Asheville Guitar Bar, 122 Riverside Dr Pan Harmonia: Bassooniverse This merry band of Bassoonists returns: Rosalind Buda, Will Peebles, Jennifer Anderson with Barbara Weiss on harpsichord.

See p28-29 SU (2/25), 3pm, First Presbyterian Church Beer & Hymns A night of brining people together to raise their glasses, raise their voices, and raise funds for organizations that change the world.

MO (2/26), 7pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Wind Cults & Beautifulish Bringing the music of Wind Cults, Asheville-based improv trio, and Sam Scranton as well as Katherine Young who make music together as Beautifulish. See p29 WE (2/28), 7pm, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St Leap Day An evening of storytelling with local artist Old Sap who will take the stage to share poetry, tall tales, happenings and folky, acoustic music.

TH (2/29), 6:30pm, Leveller Brewing Co., 25 N Main St, Weaverville

A Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: Sing & Swing The Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents a touring initiative that provides an affordable opportunity to present great jazz programming, featuring up-and-coming musicians.

TH (2/29), 7:30pm, WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

LITERARY Book Signing w/Alan Gratz An exciting drop-in signing and meet & greet with Alan Gratz as he signs his new book Heroes. This will be Alan's last in-person appearance in Asheville for a while.

SA (2/24), 2pm, The Hop, 640 Merrimon Ave, Ste 103 The Seven Foot Long Dog: A Molly & Grainne Story Gail Nostestine will read from her children's book, The Seven Foot Long Dog: A Molly and Grainne Story.

SA (2/24), 3pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St, Sylva Harwood-Cole Literary Lecture w/Pulitzer Prize Winner Carl Phillips In his lecture, Carl Phillips will read excerpts from his works and discuss his life as a writer. This event is free and open to the public.

SU (2/25), 2pm, Warren Wilson College, 701 Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa The Language of God: Book Study A testament to the power of faith in the midst of suffering without faltering.

TU (2/27), 10am, Grace Lutheran Church, 1245 6th Ave, Hendersonville Books on the Boundary Reading Circle: Even As We Breathe by Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle

A quarterly book club that discusses the best fiction, nonfiction, and poetry written by Indigenous authors.

WE (2/28), 6pm, Museum of the Cherokee People, 589 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee

THEATER & FILM Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help A hilarious, memory play following 19 year old Linda O’Shea and her family as they attempt to evade the nosy parish priest.

WE (2/21), TH (2/22), SA (2/24), 7:30pm, FR (2/23), SU (2/25), 2pm, North Carolina Stage Co., 15 Stage Ln Flyin’ West Set in the 1890s, Flyin’ West is a compelling, crowd-pleasing drama told through the eyes of four African-American women. This production is rated PG-13.

FR (2/23), SA (2/24), 7:30pm, SU (2/25), 2:30pm, Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E Walnut St The Comedy Zone w/ Doug Smith A New York comic who has appeared on CONAN, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Kevin Hart’s LOL Network, and This Is Not Happening on Comedy Central.

FR (2/23), SA (2/24), 7pm and 9pm, Wortham Center For The Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave A Month of Sundays This show takes an honest look at what again is like, adjusting to a new environment in old age, facing the realities of aging and repairing relationships with family.

FR (2/23), SA (2/24), 7:30pm, SU (2/25), 2pm, Hart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville Indian Ink Presents: Mrs. Krishnan’s Party An interactive theatre show with no two

nights ever the same in this deliciously fun cross-cultural experience, as actors juggle cooking, music, guests and unfolding drama.

MO (2/26), TU (2/27), WE (2/28), 7pm, Wortham Center For The Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave The Last Ectastic Days Score For one night only, Robert Chamberlain, the composer of "The Last Ecstatic Days," will be performing his score live with the film.

TH (2/29), 7pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain A...My Name is Alice A captivating musical revue that celebrates the strength, humor, and complexity of women's experiences.

Through a series of witty and poignant songs and sketches, the show explores a wide range of topics, from love and friendship to career aspirations and societal expectations.

TH (2/29), 7:30pm, Owen Theatre, 44 College St, Mars Hill Jean Paul Sartre: No Exit Three people are locked in a room together with no windows and no mirrors.

They all carry secrets of life and death. As the past rears up, the present becomes hell.

TH (2/29), 7:30pm, Belk Theatre, UNC Asheville, One University Heights

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

WE (2/21, 28), 3pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

MOUNTAINX.COM

FEB. 21-27, 2024

17

COM M U N I TY CA LEN DA R

Poetry Contest Xpress announces its 2024 poetry contest in celebration of April as National Poetry Month.

Are you a poet living in Western North Carolina?

If so, consider submitting an original, previously unpublished work. This year’s theme is on finding our shared humanity in Western North Carolina. Let us know where you go or what you do to connect with others who may have different theological, political or social beliefs. Bonus points to those who submit poems that avoid the actual term “shared humanity.”

All poems should be no longer than one typed page in a 12-point font. Again, only previously unpublished poems will be considered. No A.I. generated poems are allowed.

The contest is currently open for submissions and will close at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20. Email your poem in the body of the message to tcalder@ mountainx.com. The subject line should read “Xpress 2023 poetry contest.” Include the author’s name and contact information in the email. Only one submission per person. There is no cost to enter.

A winning poem will be determined by local poet and essayist Brit Washburn. The winner will be published online and in print in the final issue of our annual Sustainability series on Wednesday, April 24.

The contest is not open to Xpress employees or their families, or freelance contributors.

Contact Thomas Calder at tcalder@mountainx.com with any questions 18

FEB. 21-27, 2024

MOUNTAINX.COM

D.I. Wine Night: Paint & Sip Local artist Kelly Reese hosts an evening of wine and watercolors.

You'll learn basic watercolor skills and go home with your own frameable painting.

WE (2/21), 5pm, Bears Smokehouse BBQ, 135 Coxe Ave Performance & Stage Presence Workshop w/ Ryan Barber Ryan “RnB” Barber is LEAF’s Spark the Arts artist in residence for February. He’ll lead a performance and stage presence workshop that's free and open to the public.

WE (2/21), 5pm, LEAF Global Arts, 19 Eagle St Aerial Silks Foundations Learn how to properly ascend, descend, and create stunning shapes on the silks while emphasizing safety and proper form. Participants of all ages and all abilities are welcome.

WE (2/21, 28), 5:30pm, Amethyst Realm, 244 Short Coxe Ave Peace Education Program An innovative series of video-based workshops that help people discover their own inner strength and personal peace.

WE (2/21, 28), 5pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Malvern Hills Park's Pool Discussion Asheville Parks and Recreation will host a community meeting to discuss the process that led to the difficult decision to not open the outdoor pool in Malvern Hills Park this year.

Asheville residents are encouraged to attend.

WE (2/21), 5:30pm, Haywood County Public Library, 11 Pennsylvania Ave, Canton World of Games Grab a controller and beat your opponent on Xbox or PS5 playing games like Fortnite, Warzone, Madden NFL, and 2K basketball.

Board and card games available for those not e-gaming.

WE (2/21), 6:30pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Psychology Infused Marketing Explore the principles of consumer psychology to create more effective marketing campaigns.

Use persuasive language, visuals, and framing techniques to influence your audience and build trust and credibility in your industry. Registration is required at avl.mx/dch.

TH (2/22), 10am, Online Vegetable Garden Series: Planning Your Vegetable Garden Mary Alice will highlight the basics of vegetable gardening planning, how to create the right-

size garden and how to select which vegetables to grow. She will share information on garden tools and structures, seed and plant sources, getting started and keeping records.

TH (2/22), 10am, Buncombe County Cooperative Ext Center, 49 Mount Carmel Rd, Ste 102 Discovering Brand Strategy Embark on the journey of brand discovery, a pivotal phase for businesses of all sizes.

Preregistration at avl.mx/dcv is required.

TH (2/22), 10:30am, Online Intro To Belly Dance w/ Diana Stone This intro class is intended to help us connect deeply with and love our bodies and to find freedom of movement and improved health and expression. It is for all ages, abilities and bodies.

TH (2/22, 29), noon, The Well, 3 Louisiana Kids & Teens Kung Fu Learn fighting skills as well as conflict resolution and mindfulness.

First class is free to see if it’s a good fit for you.

TH (2/22, 29), MO (2/26), TU (2/27) 4pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Change Your Palate Cooking Demo This free lunchtime food demonstration is open to all but tailored towards those with type 2 diabetes or hypertension and/or their caretakers. Our featured host is Change Your Palate's very own Shaniqua Simuel.

TH (2/22), 4pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Passion Roadmapping w/Vinny Vignette A journaling tool for working towards your passion, focus, planning and more. The night will begin with a pranayama breathwork, a yoga practice intended to stimulate glands. See p29 TH (2/22), 6:30pm, Art Garden, 191 Lyman St, Ste 316 Lifestyle Choices A group discussion for 14 to 19 year-olds that offers an opportunity for young males to engage in open discussion regarding their behaviors and community involvement.

TH (2/22), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St Dharma & Discuss: Roger Hawkins Meditation followed by a dharma talk on Buddhist principles applied to daily life. Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome to participate.

TH (2/22), 6:30pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Pinewood Derby Racing Go through a start-tofinish process shaping and designing, adding weights, and racing pinewood cars with a focus on creativity, friendly competition, and positive sportsmanship.

TH (2/22), 6:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave Skate Jam Clinics Bring your own skates or rent a pair as instructors spread the love of roller skating to beginners.

FR (2/23), 5pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd Family Paint Night Everything needed to create painting masterpieces during a fun family night out will be provided. Creativity and all ages are invited as this paint night is not led by an instructor.

FR (2/23), 5:30pm, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St Kids Night Out Kids ages 5 to 13 are invited to a safe and fun environment to enjoy festive games, create works of art and make new friends. Pre-registration required.

FR (2/23), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St On Retreat w/Mary Magdalene An exploration of Mary Magdalene depicted through the eyes of four contemporary artists highlighting both Gospel stories and the tradition of her later life in Southern France.

FR (2/23), SA (2/24), 6pm, St James Episcopal Church, 424 W State St, Black Mountain Montford Teen Fun Night Activities range from gym games to outdoor activities to e-gaming nights. Advance registration required.

FR (2/23), 6:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave Basics of Bookkeeping In this free seminar, you will learn to provide a basis for understanding accounting concepts and reporting. What is a balance sheet, profit & loss statement, and statement of changes in cash flow.

SA (2/24), 9am, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler Adult Studio: No Stone Lithography w/Ani Volkan Students will learn about the history of lithography, the basics of the process, and

what materials to use in the process. Students will create their grease loving imagery, process their plates, and create prints from gesture drawings to photo based reproductions.

SA (2/24), noon, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Bid Whist Make bids, call trumps, and win tricks. Every Saturday for fun competition with the community.

SA (2/24), 1pm, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St We Are Related Through genealogy and DNA, two prominent Asheville leaders discovered that they were cousins and have bonded in a new relationship. Register at avl.mx/9ey.

SA (2/24), 2pm, Online Adaptive Indoor Rock Climbing Clinic A monthly adaptive climbing clinics for youth and adults with a physical disability. These sessions are open to all levels of climber from those who have never climbed before.

SA (2/24), 4pm, The Riveter, 701 Old Fanning Bridge Rd Mills River Alexander Technique Workshop This workshop is a safe space to share questions, experiences and to explore together how to cultivate a sense of wellbeing while refining your artistry. All levels and abilities are welcome.

SU (2/25), 11am, Asheville Music School, 10 Ridgelawn Rd Weekly Sunday Scrabble Club Weekly scrabble play.

All scrabble gear provided.

SU (2/25), 1:30pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Country Tea Dance & Line Dance w/Stepping Out Come to learn to line dance or show off your boot scooting skills with Jerri and the crew from Stepping Out. SU (2/25), 4pm, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd How to Plan, Prevent Tree Damage, Prune & Avoid Common Tree Health Problems Steve Pettis, well-known local expert, will discuss how to plant a tree properly, how to prevent tree damage, the art of proper pruning, preventing common tree health problems, including wooly adelgid infestation, and more.

The program is open to the public at no charge.

MO (2/26), 5pm, Hendersonville City Operations Building, 305 Williams St, Hendersonville

Therapeutic Recreation Adult Crafting & Cooking A variety of cooking and crafts for individuals with disabilities ages 17 and over each week.

Advance registration at avlrec.com is required.

TU (2/27), 10am, Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd Toddler Discovery Time Crafts, games, and playtime for youngsters.

Advance registration at avlrec.com is required.

TU (2/27), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave AAUW Asheville w/Dr. Maggie Fehrman Dr. Maggie Fehrman, new Superintendent of Asheville City Schools will be speaking on the importance of public education.

TU (2/27), noon, First Baptist Church of Asheville, 5 Oak St Free Six-Week Pottery Class Learn the basics of pottery in this six-week course. Start when it's convenient for you and continue for the next six weeks. Space limited, adnce registration required.

TU (2/27), 2pm, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St

Every Black Voice: AVL's Racial Justice Coalition Lunch & Learn This event will be discussing reparations and the history of black Asheville. Housing, health and wellness along with community building and education will also be hot topics of conversation.

WE (2/28), 12:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Access to Capital Learn why businesses borrow money, what lenders are looking for when reviewing your application, and the importance of having cash flow projections.

Pre-registration is required at avl.mx/ddw.

TH (2/29), noon, Online Building an Equitable Archives: Cultivating & Caring for Community Memory This presentation will discuss the importance of agency, access, and institutional accountability as local archives and museums strive to share a more equitable picture of our community's past. Pre-registration is required at avl.mx/prxx.

TH (2/29), 6pm, Online Dharma Talk w/John Orr John will give Dharma talk and lead discussion

on various topics related to meditation and Buddhist teachings.

TH (2/29), 6:30pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Craft & Connect Get crafty and acquire new skills while connecting with peers in your community. Registration is required.

TH (2/29), 7pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

LOCAL MARKETS Indoor Craft Market Browse amazing arts, crafts, textiles, jewelry, ceramics, stationary and more at this indoor local market.

SA (2/24), 9am, Cragmont Assembly, 1233 North Fork Rd, Black Mountain Black Mountain Vintage Flea Market Black Mountain Vintage, Black Mountain's newest vintage clothing store will host a local makers and curator pop-up flea market. The bar will be open and DJ Fyfe will be spinning some tunes.

SA (2/24), 11am, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Wedding Faire An exclusive Wedding Faire, creating an enchanting space for engaged couples to explore and connect with top-tier local wedding vendors.

SA (2/24), noon, Atelier Maison & Co., 121 Sweeten Creek Rd

Black History: Soul Food Supper Annual soul food supper co-sponsored by East End Valley St Neighborhood and Stephens-Lee Alumni associations.

TH (2/22), 6pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

RAD Farmers Market Winter Season Browse 30+ local vendors all winter long with fresh produce, pastured meats, baked goods, honey, and more. Safely accessible by bike or foot on the greenway, plus free public parking along Riverside Drive.

WE (2/21, 28), 3pm, Smoky Park Supper Club, 350 Riverside Dr

Honoring Black History Month & Celebrating African Culture w/ Zondo This event is curated by Zondo and aims to take listeners on a sensory voyage through rhythm and time with music that echoes the struggles and the triumphs of African people.

TH (2/22), 9pm, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

The Eras Party: Taylor Swift Inspired Dance Party DJ playing Taylor through her eras, costume contest, lipsync battle, themed photo areas, free koozie, bracelet trading and more.

FR (2/23), 9pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

An Evening of Eastern Culture Prepare yourself for extraordinary performances by Min Xiao-Fen on the Chinese pipa, Mari Ohta on the Japanese koto, Thom Nguyen on the drums and the Gamelan Ensemble of Warren Wilson College.

TH (2/22), 6pm, Folkmoot Friendship Center, 112 Virginia Ave, Waynesville

ASAP's Annual Business of Farming Conference The annual Business of Farming Conference brings together professional farmers from

across the Southeast region to network and share resources to grow their farm businesses.

SA (2/24), 8am, A-B Tech Conference Center, 340 Victoria Rd Twin Peaks Day Dssolvr celebrates all things Twin Peaks with a Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt, complimentary coffee, pastries, art pop-ups, a photo booth and a live set by The Lynchpins.

SA (2/24), 11:30am, Dssolvr, 63 N Lexington Ave Burial Beer Hall Presents: Foamo An afternoon of session beer enjoyment as the Eulogy taps are taken over with some killer guest lagers. This event is free entry.

SA (2/24), noon, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave

Lazr Luvr takes you on a journey through the electrifying sounds of the ’80s. This show is sure to be a full-fledged 80s-themed experience.

TH (2/29), 7pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING Warming Shelter & Sanctuary In addition to a warm, welcoming space to share a meal with neighbors, Saturday Sanctuary offers restrooms, phone charging, videos, popcorn and a safe place to rest.

SA (2/24), 11am, First Presbyterian Church Asheville, 40 Church St

Chili Cook off All participants must bring their own warming vessel, serving utensil and a small sign. No sign up required to taste and there will be live music by Cactus Kate.

SU (2/25), 1pm, Wicked Weed West, 145 Jacob Holm Way Candler

Mountain Pet Rescue Adoption Event Mountain Pet Rescue of Asheville, a non-profit animal foster organization, will be bringing some of their adorable, adoptable fur friends to meet potential new homes.

SA (2/24), 1pm, Urban Orchard Cider Co. South Slope, 24 Buxton Ave

Lazr Luvr Leap Year Show Brace yourself for a night of high energy, as

Stand w/Ukraine: 2 Year Peace Rally Peace rally and fundraiser to mark the two year

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anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, to show solidarity with Ukraine.

SA (2/24), 1pm, Pack Square Asheville Cat Weirdos Food Drive ACW will be collecting donations of cat food, litter, treats and cat toys. There will be an opportunity to buy raffle tickets for a chance to win a cat themed gift basket as well as an onsite adoption event with plenty of cats and kittens to browse. See p27 SU (2/25), 11am, Pet Supermarket, 244 Tunnel Rd 2nd Annual Food Dr Drop off in-date and unopened canned, boxed, or bagged nonperishable food items at any HCPL branch in Waynesville, Canton, Maggie Valley, and Fines Creek.

MO (2/26), 9am, Haywood County Public Library, 11 Pennsylvania Ave, Canton MANNA FoodBank Mobile Market All markets are free and open to anyone who needs support with groceries. Walk through in just minutes.

WE (2/28), 11am, Fernihurst Mansion, 16 Fernihurst Dr, A-B Tech

FEB. 21-27, 2024

19

WELLNESS

Cooler heads Law enforcement undergoes crisis intervention training

BY JESSICA WAKEMAN jwakeman@mountainx.com In many places, people in crisis are served by law enforcement officers who arrive armed only with what they learned about mental health and substance use in their basic law enforcement training. However, officers at the Asheville Police Department and Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office have additional special training for working with these situations.

According to APD spokesperson Samantha Booth, about 95% of APD officers have undergone a weeklong crisis intervention training provided by Vaya Health. CIT is a program designed to improve safety for emergency responders such as law enforcement and firefighters, telecommunicators and people who are in crisis.

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CIT gives instruction on behavioral health “in a more interesting way than all officers are given in basic law enforcement training,” which touches on depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, says Capt. Joe Silberman. That training teaches “these are some [disorders], this is what they look like — and that’s it,” he says.

CIT teaches about mental health crises through “an utterly different lens,” Silberman continues. “They try to give you an understanding of the experience of having [the mental health issue], not what it looks like.”

Vaya, a public managed care organization, provides CIT for APD and BCSO, explains Leslie Lawson, Vaya community training specialist.

Around 70% of BCSO sworn personnel have completed CIT, according to spokesperson Aaron Sarver. BCSO also recently implemented a co-responder unit in which a licensed mental health counselor responds, along with a trauma-informed sergeant, to certain acute calls. Co-responders are part of an emerging model nationwide.

A JAIL DIVERSION PROGRAM The 40-hour CIT prepares first responders to interact with someone in crisis. A significant component of the training is making first responders aware of the community’s resources that exist for people with substance use or behavioral health challenges. Lawson calls CIT a jail diversion program. “We’re trying to

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CRISIS CONTROL: Crisis intervention training is designed to improve safety for emergency responders, such as law enforcement, and to be a jail diversion program for people who are in crisis. Photo by Adobe find different resources so [people in crisis] do not have to go to jail,” she says.

APD’s policy requires officers to have CIT in order to carry a Taser, says interim Chief Mike Lamb. The department began training officers in the CIT program in 2007.

Participants are required to have at least six months’ experience in their agencies before undergoing CIT, for which they can earn continuing education credits, says Lawson.

Vaya offers CIT three times a year — in March, August and December — at A-B Tech Woodfin. In addition to law enforcement agencies, the organization offers CIT to telecommunicators working with 911 dispatch, the detention center, local universities, school resource officers, magistrates and Asheville Regional Airport employees, among other groups.

Vaya’s program is certified through the nationwide nonprofit

CIT International, and Lawson is the local certified CIT coordinator.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services covers the training costs, says Patty Wilson, Vaya vice president for learning and development. Lamb says officers are paid while attending CIT training.

‘AN EFFECTIVE MEMORY’ CIT brings guest speakers who discuss the varied experiences law enforcement may encounter during policing. Officers have the opportunity to ask whatever questions they might have about substance use or behavioral health. “You get to ask them really personal questions,” Silberman says. “It is an utterly interesting perspective that you get.”

Class speakers can include behavioral health professionals from Mountain Area Health Education Center, RHA Health Services, Mission Hospital Copestone or Caiyalynn Burrell Child Crisis Center. They can also include the loved ones of people with mental illness and people who are in recovery.

A pharmacist from Vaya or MAHEC will discuss psychopharmacology and talk about some of the medications officers may encounter in individuals, Lawson says. And a magistrate or an attorney will speak to the legal aspects of involuntary commitments, or IVCs, for inpatient treatment. (IVCs require a legal process that must be approved by a district judge.)

Lawson says an important part of CIT is the role-play component, where a person enacts a crisis that law enforcement may encounter.

Officers “have to de-escalate that individual, instead of having to put hands on that person,” she explains.

BCSO received a grant that allows its officers to learn about psychiatric conditions through a virtual reality component. The officer wears a VR headset during CIT that simulates conditions like schizophrenia. “You can experience things that somebody who’s struggling with delusions [experiences], like hearing voices, seeing things,” explains Lamb. “Because that helps us to provide a more empathetic response whenever we’re encountering these situations.”

Silberman, who tried the VR simulation at the last CIT, calls it “an effective memory.” He explains, “You remember the difficulty [you had] communicating coherently … and you could tell whether you’re being dismissed.”

Participants in CIT are also taken outside the classroom to visit various providers of behavioral health and substance use support. Lamb says officers may visit RHA Health Services’ Behavioral Health Urgent Care, which can assess individuals without an appointment and refer them to substance use detox services, a hospital or other treatment, and Julian F. Keith Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center, which provides treatment for substance abuse and mental health disorders, as well as detoxification.

REDUCING USE OF FORCE APD officers also participate in a use-of-force training called Integrating Communications and Tactics, or ICAT. All officers have been required to participate in ICAT training since 2017, says APD spokesperson Booth.

Law enforcement is “limited in what we can do with somebody who’s using a firearm,” Lamb says.

But if an individual is armed with “a stick, a knife or some other weapon other than a firearm,” law enforcement has more discretion about the response, he explains. The officer could employ specialized communication skills to reduce the need to use force.

ICAT is offered through the Police Executive Research Forum, a nationwide organization of police executives that has provided other services previously to the City of Asheville.

ICAT training addresses topics like critical decision-making and threat assessment; identifying mental illness or intellectual and developmental disabilities; verbal and nonverbal communication; teamwork; and speaking up if a colleague is about

to make a mistake. According to a 2020 study of the Louisville Metro Police Department, officers with ICAT training had a 28% reduction in the use of force, a 26% reduction in citizen injuries and a 36% reduction in officer injuries.

“What we’ve learned is it’s important to have time and distance and resources to help de-escalate that person,” Lamb says of ICAT training.

SUICIDE BY COP ICAT training includes a module about suicide-by-cop incidents — “those in which a person attempts to die by suicide by forcing an officer to use lethal force,” according to the Police Executive Research Forum.

A person with suicidal ideation may see interacting with law enforcement as a way to facilitate death, Lamb explains.

Suicide-by-cop training addresses how to recognize these circumstances and how to appropriately respond.

The most important aspect of the training, says Lamb, is for the officer to understand that depending on how they approach and talk to an individual, they could actually “give somebody the idea of committing suicide by cop. And that’s something that we want to avoid.”

Lamb cites an example of “not using shaming statements” while interacting with a vulnerable individual. Officers are also trained that a more aggressive approach like shouting “Drop the knife! Drop the knife!” may not result in the best outcome. Instead, officers are trained to use “I” statements, Lamb says, such as “I feel scared because you have that knife in your hand. Why do you have that knife in your hand?”

PUBLIC TRAININGS Currently, CIT and ICAT are only offered to people working in certain fields. However, Lawson notes that Vaya does offer several trainings for members of the general public who want to learn about behavioral health and de-escalating crises.

One training covers mental health first aid. Another training is on general de-escalation tactics.

Vaya also offers two trainings about suicide risk: a two-hour program called Question, Persuade, Refer and a two-day program called Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, or ASIST. Additionally, Vaya can tailor specific trainings by request, such as if a community or school experiences a series of deaths by suicide. X MOUNTAINX.COM

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ARTS & CULTURE

Crafting solutions ArtsAVL surveys the creative community

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN earnaudin@mountainx.com ArtsAVL has come a long way during Katie Cornell’s tenure as executive director. Yet even more significant challenges and opportunities lie ahead as the fifth anniversary of her hiring approaches.

In early February, the designated arts agency for Buncombe County opened its survey to collect feedback from local artists and arts organizations about affordability and space challenges. The survey addresses what the ArtsAVL team sees as the top issue for area creators.

“This is what we’re hearing across the board: Artists are being pushed out. They can’t afford to live here anymore. They can’t afford to do their work here,” Cornell says. “And we’re hearing arts organizations are having a really hard time. Magnetic Theatre just lost their space. They’re having a hard time finding places for rehearsal and performance — not just their home base location. So, affordability is a huge issue.”

The study builds on Artspace’s 2018 Arts Market Study and looks at data from local arts professionals and businesses in the Asheville metro area (Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson and Madison counties). The Creative Spaces survey is open through Monday, March 11, and the more artists who take it, the more data ArtsAVL will have to advocate for local creatives.

SURVEY SAYS Cornell joined the organization in summer 2019, when it was then known as the Asheville Area Arts Council. She leads a team that currently includes Assistant Director Caroline Crupi, Development Director Rebecca Lynch and Communications Manager Ali McGhee. Their efforts center on helping local artists find the resources they need to thrive, yet meeting those needs has become increasingly difficult.

“There’s a superhigh barrier to entry here in Buncombe County, and it is not easy to be a working artist,” Cornell says.

She cites recent findings that the fair-market rent has gone up 78% in the last five years and notes that the 5-year-old Arts Market Study already identified affordability of space as a major issue before that increase.

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“We’re looking to how we address these barriers to entry that are just growing higher and higher,” Cornell says. “A lot of our young, up-and-coming artists are leaving town. They can’t make it here. A lot of our established artists are moving out of the county or out of the state, so we’re superworried about that.”

The Creative Spaces report’s comprehensive findings will be released in May, in conjunction with ArtsAVL’s final town hall for the current fiscal year. The event will feature a panel discussion about different creative solutions to deal with cost-of-living issues.

“The city’s doing their affordable housing plan right now, and the county’s really focused on affordable housing, so we’re trying to find ways that we can be part of this discussion,” Cornell says.

In an effort to buoy the Creative Spaces report, ArtsAVL has partnered with students at Duke University who are looking at national case studies on what other communities are doing, both around the workspace and implementing the arts into affordable housing projects through solutions such as makerspaces.

“We see this as being the first step toward creating a cultural plan for Buncombe County,” Cornell says.

“There has never been a cultural plan for Asheville or Buncombe County, which is kind of crazy considering how much arts and culture is in our community. [Arts organizations] are undertaking all these initiatives kind of blindfolded with no long-term plan, and everybody’s siloed doing their own thing.”

Cornell feels that with the amount of growth happening in Asheville, a cultural plan “is becoming necessary.” And with ArtsAVL entering the third and final year of it current strategic plan, she adds that having some kind of a cultural plan would be immensely helpful in helping decide ArtsAVL’s next moves.

TRIFOCALS With no designated staff for arts and culture at the City of Asheville or Buncombe County, ArtsAVL serves as, in Cornell’s words, “a voice for the arts at the table.” When Cornell took over as executive director in 2019, one of her goals was to help the community better understand the role of the local

to see that build, but it’s complicated because they can’t expand it within the current structure. It’s definitely on our minds that we want to address that.”

There’s also an Arts for Schools grant for in-school programming, and the Arts Build Community Grant, which aids underserved communities with public art and similar projects.

“What we’ve done in the last few years is just go through all of our grant programs and refine them as much as possible to make them as easy and accessible as possible,” Cornell says. “They are some of the simplest applications people are going to see.”

The last focus piece is Connection, which Cornell describes as a work-inprogress. Efforts include a new directory on the ArtsAVL website where artists and arts organizations can have profiles and share their events and opportunities, as well as the free ArtsAVL trolley that links downtown and the River Arts District on the second Saturday of each month.

“We saw those businesses had been really impacted by the pandemic,” Cornell says. “We’re literally delivering people to their front doors.

It’s our hope that that becomes every Saturday eventually. But for right now, it’s just second Saturdays.”

ADDITIONAL HURDLES

SMALL BUT MIGHTY: The ArtsAVL staff stops by Scott Allred’s and Jeremy Russell’s mural in Black Mountain. Pictured, from left, are Caroline Crupi, Katie Cornell, Ali McGhee and Rebecca Lynch. Photo courtesy of ArtsAVL arts council. To achieve this, she’s developed three focus areas: advocacy, grant programs and outreach.

“We do a lot of reporting now to make it clear the impact of arts and culture, as well as how it’s being impacted, which was supervaluable during the [COVID-19] pandemic,” Cornell says. “My passion is arts advocacy.”

Her commitment will cover a larger footprint next year, when Cornell becomes chair of the statewide arts advocacy organization, Arts North Carolina. The responsibilities are in conjunction with her role at ArtsAVL. ArtsAVL is also actively building its grant programs. According to Cornell, the nonprofit supported 86 different local organizations and artists in 2023, and its grant programs overall have grown 98% in the last five years.

“We now have five grants and both the city and county as funding partners, which is huge because their funding support was not very strong for the arts and culture when I first started,” Cornell says. “It’s amazing

to have been able to build those relationships and be a trusted partner for administering that funding.”

Three of those granting programs directly impact artists, including the regional Artist Support Grant. The funds come through the N.C. Arts Council, and the Haywood County

Arts Council leads the administration process for a six-county cluster.

“That is for helping artists take the next step in their career. Those are [roughly] $2,500 grants for buying a piece of equipment or doing some training or studio time — that kind of thing,” Cornell says. “We would love

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Rebranding as ArtsAVL in 2023 has also helped raise awareness of the group’s work. Cornell followed the example of statewide arts organization and The United Arts Council of Greater Greensboro, which now goes by ArtsGreensboro. Though she stresses that ArtsAVL serves all of Buncombe County, “Arts Buncombe” is not that catchy of a moniker.

“We really are that hub for arts and culture, just like our airport is that

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hub,” Cornell says. “People seem to really like the name change. Asheville Area Arts Council and AAAC: They don’t roll off the tongue supereasy. It definitely was a smooth transition.”

Still, misconceptions persist regarding ArtsAVL’s work. Cornell says individuals want her group to be partners on various initiatives and events. But what people commonly don’t understand is ArtsAVL is acting on a much higher level than just one individual project.

“We’re really trying to move the needle for the entire sector,” she says. “We are a small but mighty team doing this work, so it’s hard for me to meet with every individual artist that has an idea. Sometimes people get frustrated that we aren’t readily available, but we’re doing the best we can with what we have.”

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That sense of artists being served extends to city and county representatives. Based on the rising cost of living and gradual exodus of the creative scene, many locals artists feel those in office aren’t truly representing them.

“I think with elected officials, the problem in the past has been [that] there has not been that middle person communicating between the creative community and our elected officials,” Cornell says.

“We serve that purpose — we’re there kind of explaining to elected officials in the city and the county what is happening and what the impacts are, but we are also taking that information back to the creative community and helping them understand what’s happening and what the opportunities are and how they might be impacted by things. So, it’s been very beneficial both ways.”

Despite those gains, Cornell sees major challenges ahead. Due to the current state budget provision prohibiting Tier 3 counties with a

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FRAGILE ECOSYSTEM: The North Carolina Glass Center is one of many creative spaces whose representatives’ input ArtsAVL will gauge for an upcoming report on affordability in the creative sector. Photo courtesy of ArtsAVL population over 250,000 from receiving Grassroots Arts Program grant funding, Buncombe is one of just five counties in North Carolina to be excluded.

The result is a reduction in the number and size of Grassroots grant awards ArtsAVL is able to offer in its 2024-25 funding cycle, but Cornell stresses that her group’s advocacy efforts on the state level are focused on having that restriction removed.

For the next year, however, local aid will be lower, which means more lean times for artists still recovering from the pandemic.

“A lot of organizations depleted their savings and they’re not as resilient as they were prior to the pandemic,” Cornell says. “A lot of organizations had to shrink. That’s how they survived. And so our number of creative jobs has gone down because of it. And when we’ll be able to build that up again, I don’t know.”

Funding is also an issue at the forefront of Cornell’s mind. She’s hearing from arts organizations that donations are down and business sponsorships are harder to come by for events of all sizes, particularly larger ones.

“There’s a lot of additional costs with doing outdoor events,” she says.

“Now we’re administering the Event Support Grant on behalf of the city, and we’re hearing from organizations that it is just nearly impossible to put on outdoor events and festivals now,

so we’re trying to address those issues as well.”

On the plus side, Land of Sky Regional Council recently received an Appalachian Regional Commission Power Grant totaling nearly $953,000 as well as a $450,000 Dogwood Matching Grant to work on building infrastructure around “creative manufacturing,” which Cornell says is essentially arts entrepreneurship. Its initial implementation phase will focus on multiple areas, including increasing market access and developing more shared spaces and shared equipment.

Growing the creative manufacturing business network is also a priority. Cornell notes that there’s often a disconnect between service providers and artists looking to launch businesses. ArtsAVL is part of an initiative with Mountain BizWorks to build a resource directory and help train service providers to work with creatives.

“Again, we’re trying to break down these barriers to entry by making it easier for artists to build businesses in our area,” she says.

The Creative Spaces survey will also go a long way in knowing how ArtsAVL can best serve Asheville-area artists and advocate for them.

“We’re supposed to serve all of Buncombe County,” Cornell says.

“Hopefully, as time goes on and we show ourselves and our body of work, people are starting to feel and realize what we’re doing.”

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ARTS & CU L T U R E

FOOD ROUNDUP

What’s new in food The YMCA of Western North Carolina has opened a new base for the organization’s food outreach program. The Nutrition Outreach Hub on Riverside Drive in Woodfin is nearly triple the size of the previous nutrition center in the Asheville YMCA. The YMCA food outreach team of WNC is responsible for providing 1.47 million pounds of fresh produce to a five-county area in the last decade, according to Aimee Kuelling, marketing and communications director at YMCA of WNC. The new facility will allow for an expansion of this effort and serve as a hub for the YMCA’s mobile food markets program, which delivers free produce around town to anyone who wants it, no questions asked.

Ashley Tee, YMCA of WNC’s executive director of community health, says rural WNC faces ongoing nutrition challenges, such as limited public transit, which can make accessing grocery stores difficult, and the ever-increasing cost of produce. “This was the inspiration to launch our program 10 years ago,” she says. “We saw the need to bring fresh produce to our neighbors at community hubs like libraries, community centers, schools, churches, etc. … We aim to ensure everyone has the food they need.”

Before the move, the outreach team had to reject larger food donations.

“I am excited that the additional space allows us to accept more food donations,” says Tee. “Our food is mostly donated. We work closely with MANNA FoodBank, several grocery stores and local farmers. Additionally, our YMCA members are wonderful about donating extra vegetables from their gardens during the summer.”

The hub provides meal boxes to Managed Medicaid members through a statewide initiative called Healthy Opportunities Pilots, with food purchased mainly from local farmers, according to Tee. It will also house Cooking Matters Signature Courses, a series teaching low-income individuals and families about healthy and affordable cooking skills, and the Food Explorers after-school nutrition program. Food Explorers provides kids with a hands-on curriculum about the

NEW NUTRITION: YMCA of Western North Carolina held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 31 at the new Nutrition Outreach Hub in Woodfin. Photo courtesy of YMCA of WNC importance of food for emotional and physical health, encourages them to try new foods and builds the confidence to make healthy food choices.

The YMCA offers many avenues for volunteering, including sorting donated food, packing and delivering meal boxes, setting up mobile food markets, assisting with cooking classes and more.

The YMCA Nutrition Outreach Hub is at 2002 Riverside Drive, Woodfin.

Learn more at avl.mx/ddn.

Pubcycle turns 10 The Amazing Pubcycle is celebrating its 10-year anniversary by offering free tours to local Asheville residents until Thursday, March 7.

The locally owned trolly-tour company’s owner says he wants to give back to the community responsible for its success. “The best part of Pubcycle tours is the ability to experience our

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amazing city from a unique perspective,” says Amazing Pubcycle owner Shawn Verbrugghe. “On a typical day, as we’re commuting though our city, it’s easy to glaze over the architecture and unique cultural aspects of artwork, and we often forget the feeling that people get when they first come to Asheville.”

Verbrugghe, who launched the company in late 2013, says he knows the Amazing Pubcycle has a reputation for being loud and slow. That just proves “how much fun people are having,” he says. He hopes locals get the chance to experience the Pubcycle for themselves. “Free tours for locals is just one way we’ve decided to give back to the community this year. At a time when people are saving more and spending less, we want to offer up some fun for free.”

The Amazing Pubcycle offers pedal-powered (and motor-assisted) tours that focus on various aspects of Asheville culture and nightlife, while providing experiences ranging from Asheville trivia to pub crawls. “This year we’ll offer Sunday morning spin class and karaoke tours,” says Verbrugghe. “You don’t have to drink to have a good time on the Pubcycle.”

All tours are BYOB (beer or wine).

For more information, visit avl.mx/ddp. To book a free tour, use code localavl24 at checkout.

Whodunnit Dinner Jimmy Ferraro will host a murder mystery dinner at The Main Event in Hendersonville on Saturday, Feb. 24, 6-8 p.m.

“The booze is flowing and the dancing begins … But suddenly …

MURDER,” reads the handbill. The immersive production Marriage Is Murder engages the audience in a classic whodunnit. “It’s 1922 — think Great Gatsby — and the audience has to solve a murder,” says Ferraro.

“Why did they do it,? How did they do it? — so they are actively involved.

The audience is the detective.”

The characters Shifty Malone, a world-famous bootlegger, and Kicks Catavelli, the Charleston Queen, will be played by local actors from Ferraro’s Hendersonville-based production company, Murder Mystery for Hire.

The dinner consists of a fourcourse traditional Italian “mafia” meal and is included in the $85 ticket price. Catering for the event will be provided by Palmer’s at Cummings Cove. Guests are invited to don their zoot suits, flapper dresses and other 1920s attire.

The Main Event is at 125 S. Main St., Hendersonville. For more information, visit avl.mx/ddr.

ASAP CSA Fair

Cat Weirdos food drive

Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project has proclaimed Thursday, Feb. 15-Friday, March 15 as CSA Month and will hold a CSA fair on Friday, March 8, 3-5:30 p.m.

Community Supported Agriculture encompasses programs in which consumers can buy shares of a local farm’s harvest. Members receive a box of produce or other goods from the farm each week. With a wide array of local farms participating, there are programs to match a variety of consumer needs such as the size of the weekly share, growing practices of the farm and location.

“CSAs have a lot of advantages,” says Sarah Hart, ASAP’s communications and engagement director. “Some of the biggest are getting the best products, the chance to build community and challenging yourself to try new things and cook healthier meals.

CSA customers are absolutely getting the freshest produce and often get first pick for popular seasonal items over farmers market customers. You really get to make a personal connection with the farmer who grows your food.”

ASAP, an organization that supports local farming and building healthy food communities, announced the honorary month in anticipation of the CSA fair, which will take place at the YWCA of Asheville. “The best time to sign up for a CSA is in February and early March,” Hart says. “Most farmers try to sell all their traditional spring and summer season CSA shares before the growing season starts. That way, they have that investment early on, and they can purchase what they need for the season.”

For those unable to attend the fair, ASAP has an online tool that compares CSAs throughout the Appalachian Grown region.

The YWCA is at 185 S. French Broad Ave. For more information visit avl.mx/b0y.

Asheville Cat Weirdos is hosting a cat food drive Sunday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at Pet Supermarket on Tunnel Road.

The nonprofit is a 100% donation-based service that helps cat owners experiencing unemployment, underemployment or medical issues maintain quality care for their cats. It provides assistance with emergency veterinary bills, spay and neuter vouchers and cat supplies. “There has definitely been a huge increase in people needing help both with cat supplies and vet bills postCOVID,” says Christina Dorsett, an ACW volunteer. “The goal of Asheville Cat Weirdos is to help people retain pet ownership during hardships.”

ACW’s last food drive collected almost 700 cans of wet food and almost 200 pounds of dry food, along with litter, toys and treats. Raffle tickets will be sold for $5 each or five for $20, and a winner will be drawn at the end of the day. Like prior food drives, this one will take place in coordination with the FurEver Friends adoption event.

Anyone who buys a raffle ticket is encouraged to go inside and consider taking home a new cat.

Supplies collected at the food drive will be distributed at the organization’s bimonthly food pantry, which is open the second Tuesday of each month from 3-5 p.m., and on the fourth Saturday from noon-2 p.m, at the House of Black Cat Magic on Haywood Road. Each food pantry event helps an average of 20 families.

Pet Supermarket is at 244 Tunnel Road. For event information visit avl.mx/ddo.

accounts that it is closing its West Asheville location after 12 years.

“We want to express our deepest gratitude to all of you — our loyal customers — for your unwavering support over the years,” the post reads. “It has been an incredible journey, and we are truly grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of your lives. Your patronage, kind words, and smiles have meant the world to us.”

The restaurant, owned by Cheri and Kevin Mullins, plans to reopen in a new location and cites nonrenewal of the lease as the reason for the closure.

In the meantime, the company plans to continue its catering operation as well as offering group Trailbox lunches, sandwiches packed in durable containers with chips and a snack that are made for taking on hikes.

Customers are encouraged to redeem their gift cards before the closure. The company’s last day of operations in the current location will be Saturday, Feb. 24.

Asheville Sandwich Co. is at 794 Haywood Road. For more information or to order Trailbox lunches, visit avl.mx/ddq.

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ROUNDUP

Around Town Story Medicine focuses on racial healing Meta Commerse, founder and CEO of Story Medicine Worldwide, is stepping away from some of her leadership roles and passing them on to the next generation of healers.

Commerse established Story Medicine in Asheville 13 years ago, though she has been a student of healing practices since the 1970s.

The online platform blends healing rituals with the power of writing to recall one’s own story and the stories of ancestors, prompting internal reflection on the community and the surrounding world.

“We talk to people and with people about what it means to speak truly in their authentic voice, and openly. And we treat this space in such a way that it’s conducive to that,” Commerse says.

The modality’s newest teacher is Heidi Wood, an online teacher from Atlanta who became involved with Story Medicine in 2019. She says Story

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In the upcoming year, Wood will be conducting workshops and classes on racial healing, a focus of Story Medicine Worldwide since 2016. She will host a Racial Healing Introductory Workshop on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 6:30 p.m., and another racial healing workshop on Saturday, Sept. 28, to help parents navigate the topic of race with their children in terms of today’s world and social climate. She will also offer a Staying Safe in America workshop on Wednesday, April 24, which she says will focus on the racial implications of gun access and violence.

While a variety of Story Medicine Worldwide’s workshops are offered to everyone, these select workshops are geared toward white people. The teachings, Wood says, are intended to build healthier relationships.

“We are doing our workshops and our classes in white space with white people, doing that healing amongst ourselves without burdening and retraumatizing Black folks. And so that when we go out into the world, and we have relationships, meaningful loving relationships with people of color, we can get better at having those relationships authentically from a place of healing and hopefully cause less damage.”

Commerse recalls an expression from one of her past teachers that inspires the mission of her practice. He taught from an Ayurvedic perspective, an old healing science whose Sanskrit name translates to “knowledge of life.”

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TEACHER OF HEALING: After launching Story Medicine Worldwide in 2011, founder Meta Commerse is stepping away from some of her leadership roles as the organization transitions into its next phase. Photo courtesy of “He used to say, ‘I’m not in the river, the river is in me. I’m not in the world, the world is in me.’ I’ve lived long enough, and as an elder, I finally understand what he was talking about — that we live our lives from the inside out,” Commerse says.

“That’s what Story Medicine is all about. Helping people to access their inner resources based on what they’ve lived through, what they’ve learned through life, what their gifts are.”

The classes are virtual. Learn more at avl.mx/ddj.

Robert Brown, and Daddy Long Legs, based on the classic novel about an orphan with a mysterious benefactor, which inspired a 1955 movie. The third musical, Spring Awakening, a winner of eight Tony Awards, explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood; it is set to run in September.

All shows will take place at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave. To learn more about casting and to purchase tickets, visit avl.mx/ddk.

Casting call for AMT

Pan Harmonia features bassoon music

After a sold-out inaugural season, Asheville Musical Theatre is kicking off its second year. Video audition submissions for the 2024 season are now being accepted through Friday, March 1.

This year’s lineup includes three musicals, “all focused on highlighting the local vibrant artistic community,” according to a press release. In July, the theater will present Songs for a New World, a musical examining life and love from Tony Award winner Jason

Pan Harmonia, an Asheville chamber music company, presents To the Bassooniverse and Beyond on Sunday, Feb. 25, 3 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church. The show features a bassoon trio, Rosalind Buda, Jennifer Anderson and Will Peebles, along with Barbara Weiss on harpsichord.

“It’s just a hoot to go and listen to good bassoon players,” says artistic director Kate Steinbeck. “It’s a gorgeous instrument. And I think

it’s one of those transporting things, because we identify that sound with being little kids and hearing cartoon music, and it just makes you happy to hear bassoons.”

Steinbeck says that listening to the live instrumentals brings audiences into the moment and gives the mind a rest from “thinking about all the other junk out in the world.”

First Presbyterian Church is at 40 Church St. The performance is donation based, pay-as-you-can. Register in advance at avl.mx/ddl.

Survey seeks input on creative spaces ArtsAVL has opened a creative spaces survey until Monday, March 11, for artists and art organizations in Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson and Madison counties to share feedback about local creative spaces and how space-related issues impact growth and development.

The survey, along with additional data on cost of living and space accessibility, will be collected and shared via a report and town hall on Friday, May 10, that aims to identify and support sustainable solutions.

Survey results will be anonymized, but respondent contact information will be gathered in case additional outreach is needed. Businesses will also have the opportunity to share their names as contributors to the final report.

For more information and to take the survey, visit avl.mx/dcu.

Performance features sonic sounds Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center will present musical artists Wind Cults and Beautifulish

on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m., for a night of sonic sound.

Sam Scranton (percussion and electronics) and Katherine Young (bassoon and electronics), who was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2021, combine improvisation with composed material to make music together as Beautifulish. Wind Cults is an Asheville-based improvisational trio composed of Brett Naucke on electronics, Thom Nguyen on drums and Adam Lion on vibraphone. “[The sonic sound] ends up expanding the instrumental possibilities of acoustic instruments with electronics, through extended techniques,” says Jeff Arnal, Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center executive director. “Melody, harmonies and rhythms are playing together or working together at a point where they actually then create something else.”

Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center is at 120 College St. Tickets are $12 for general admission and $8 for members and students with ID. They can be purchased at avl.mx/9e4.

Map out your passions Yoga teacher and life coach Vinny Vignette will teach Passion Roadmapping on Thursday, Feb. 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Art Garden.

The night will begin with pranayama breathwork, a yoga practice intended to stimulate glands, like the pineal gland known as the “third eye,” and get energy flowing. Breathwork will be followed by asana yoga postures.

The yoga postures are meant to help people “get embodied and really create this space for people to feel comfortable to express themselves,” Vignette explains.

These practices will culminate in passion road mapping. Participants will write their passions down and

then choose the passion that brings them the most joy. They will then expand on that passion and write down how they can make it come through in their everyday lives.

“We work on getting all those things on the page. And then there’s a couple of bonuses of timelining and putting in how often we’re going to do it, or what date we want to do it by — really making it attainable and approachable,” Vignette says.

Vignette says to bring a yoga mat, a 2024 paper planner/journal and your passions to the event. Or reserve a borrowed yoga mat by emailing VinnyBWellness@gmail.com.

The Canopy at Art Garden AVL is at 191 Lyman St. #320. Tickets are $30 at avl.mx/d24.

Saturday, Feb. 24. The group performs soft rock songs of the ’70s and ’80s with a modern twist.

Attendees must be 18 or older. Both shows start at 8 p.m., with doors open at 7 p.m. The Root Down food truck will be serving food at the venue.

Salvage Station is at 466 Riverside Drive. Tickets ($20 in advance, $25 at the door) can be purchased at avl.mx/ddm.

Grateful Dead tribute at Salvage Station

— Brionna Dallara X

MOVIE REVIEWS THE TASTE OF THINGS: Writer/ director Anh Hung Tran’s French culinary romance is a feast for the senses. Grade: A-minus — Edwin Arnaudin

Salvage Station will host two concerts this weekend on its indoor stage. Grateful Dub and Roots of Creation will play a reggae Grateful Dead tribute on Friday, Feb. 23.

Thurston Howell – A Premier Yacht Rock Spectacular will be returning to Salvage Station on

Find full reviews and local film info at ashevillemovies.com ashevillemovies.substack.com

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 12 BONES BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO. Trivia! Trivia!, 6:30pm BARLEY'S TAPROOM & PIZZERIA Trivia Night w/ PartyGrampa, 7pm EULOGY Country Westerns (country), 8pm FLEETWOOD'S Psych Night w/DJ Torren, 9pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Saylor Brothers & Friends (jamgrass), 6:30pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Well-Crafted Music w/ Matt Smith, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Old Time Jam, 5pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Bluegrass Jam w/Derek McCoy & Friends, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8:30pm SHAKEY'S Sexy Service Industry Night, 10pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic, 8pm THE DRAFTSMAN BAR + LOUNGE Trivia Nights, 7pm THE GREY EAGLE Big Richard w/Cody Hale (pop, country, bluegrass), 8pm

THE ODD Ultra Deluxe, Trophy Hunt, Socialist Anxiety & Serrate (experimental, hardcore, indie-punk), 8pm THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Dan's Jam (bluegrass), 5pm URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Trivia, 6:30pm

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR MGBs (acoustic), 7:30pm BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE Mike Kenton & Jim Tanner (jazz), 5:30pm BLK MTN PIZZA & ALE HOUSE Billy Presnell (folk, Americana), 6pm CITIZEN VINYL Sally Anne Morgan w/Ritka (folk, pop, psychedelia), 7pm CROW & QUILL Vaden Landers Trio (country, honky-tonk), 8pm EULOGY J Seger w/Pilgrim Party & Superflower (folk, experimental, rock), 8pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Jerry's Dead (Grateful Dead & JGB Tribute), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Not Rocket Science Trivia, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Darren Nicholson & Shawn Lane (bluegrass), 7pm LAZOOM ROOM BAR & GORILLA LaZoom Room Comedy w/Greg Behrens, 7pm

DURHAM DAYDREAMER: On Friday, Feb. 23, Durham-based musician Skylar Gudasz plays at Citizen Vinyl, starting at 7 p.m. This self-described “daydreamer with the nightly blues” will be joined by Amanda Neill & the Blue Roses. Photo by Roxanne Turpen MAD CO. BREW HOUSE Karaoke w/Banjo Mitch, 6pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Two Step Too (acoustic), 7pm ONE WORLD BREWING Kid Billy (Americana, blues, indie-folk), 7pm

OUTSIDER BREWING Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE Lamont Landers (rock, funk), 8pm

• Atlanta Comedy Showcase: ATLiens, 9pm

PULP Slice of Life: Comedy Open Mic & Standup Comedy, 7pm

THE ODD The Comedy Queen Variety, 8pm

CITIZEN VINYL Skylar Gudasz w/ Amanda Neill & the Blue Roses (rock, blues, folk), 7pm

SHILOH & GAINES Karaoke Night, 8pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Stand Up Comedy for Your Health, 8pm

Weekly Events! MON: Industry Night TUE: Open Mic • WED: Trivia • THUR: Karaoke

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THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Jay Brown (roots, blues, Americana), 7pm THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Mr Jimmy (blues), 6:30pm

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY P*rn Star Karaoke, 8pm ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR Mr Jimmy's Friday Night Blues, 7:30pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Murkury x Lavier, Arkzen & Psymatic (electronic, dance, bass), 9pm CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE ASHEVILLE • Comedy at Catawba: Joe Pettis, 7pm

CORK & KEG The Uptown Hillbillies (honky-tonk, country), 8pm CROW & QUILL Meschiya Lake & The Moodswingers, 8pm FLEETWOOD'S Cloutchaser, Cigarettes @ Sunset & Blankstate (indie, emo, rock), 9pm GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM Jody Carroll (blues, folks, roots), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM The Dan Clare Duo (bluegrass), 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Honky-Tonk Fridays w/Jackson Grimm, 4pm • Vaden Landers (country), 9pm LA TAPA LOUNGE Open mic w/Hamza, 8pm

MAD CO. BREW HOUSE JR Williams (rock, folk), 6pm NOBLE CIDER Crisp Comedy w/Isaiah Pringle, 7pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. The Get Right Band (psychedelic, indierock), 8pm ONE WORLD BREWING A.G. Hammond Duo (R&B, blues, pop), 8pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Educated Guess & In Flight (funk, jazz, progrock), 8pm SALVAGE STATION Grateful Dub & Roots of Creation (Grateful Dead tribute, Reggae), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Powder Horns, Beware the Dangers of a Ghost Scorpion & We Have Ignition (rock'n'roll, horror-surf), 9pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. The Copper Children (psych-gospel), 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Nobody's Darling String Band, 4pm • Ben Balmer (Americana, folk, blues), 9pm LA TAPA LOUNGE Karaoke, 9pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Abbey Elmore Band (indie, pop), 8pm

SHAKEY'S Safety Coffin, Room 213 & The Silver Door (rock, blues, punk), 9pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST • Reggie Headen & Nighttime Noon (jazz, rock, soul), 4pm • Bottleneck Jett (Americana, rock, funk), 9pm

SHILOH & GAINES 4th Horse (rock'n'roll), 9pm

SALVAGE STATION Thurston Howell (yachtrock), 8pm

THE ONE STOP Muskrat Flats (Americana, funk, bluegrass), 10pm

SHAKEY'S Partyland Sessions w/ DJ GrimmJoi, 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Sold Out: Brittany Howard (rock, dream-pop, psychedelia), 8pm THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Shane O'Brien & Andrew Poirier Duo (bluegrass), 7pm THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Vaden Landers (country), 6pm WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT Jay Dipaola (funk, blues, jazz), 7pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN DJ5 Silent Disco, 7pm

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 27 CLUB Spiritual Decline, Bloodbone & Split in Two (metal), 8pm ASHEVILLE CLUB Mr Jimmy (blues), 6pm ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR Vince Junior Band (blues, Appalachian soul), 7:30pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Hedonistas (rock, soul), 10pm BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 6pm

SHILOH & GAINES Andrew Thelston Band (funk, rock'n'roll), 9pm SWEETEN CREEK BREWING The Candleers (country), 6pm

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THE GREY EAGLE Blonde Redhead w/Bibi Club (indie, alt-rock, shoegaze), 8pm THE ODD Party Foul Drag: Saturday Night Tease, 8pm THE ORANGE PEEL Brittany Howard (rock, dream-pop, psychedelia), 8pm THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Moonshine State (multiple genres), 7pm THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Live Music Saturday Nights, 7pm WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT DJ Abu Disarray, 7pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Standup Comedy Show, 8pm

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25 ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO. Stand Up Comedy, 6:30pm

CORK & KEG Zydeco Ya Ya (Cajun, Zydeco), 8pm

CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE ASHEVILLE Monster Comedy Jam, 6:30pm

CROW & QUILL Firecracker Jazz Band, 8pm

EULOGY The Hot Club of Asheville (jazz), 2pm

EULOGY Modelface Comedy Presents: Shane Torres, 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S The Sleeveens, Tight & Bad Sleepers (garage, punk), 9pm

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C LU BL A N D FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa, 3pm

DSSOLVR Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM Jazz Sunday's, 2pm

HAYWOOD COUNTRY CLUB Open Mic w/ Taylor Martin & Special Guests, 7:15pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Ka-Pow (jazz, funk, blues), 2pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Geeks Who Drink Trivia, 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Bluegrass Brunch, 1pm • Traditional Irish Jam, 3:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Quizzo! Pub Trivia w/ Jason Mencer, 7:30pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Takes All Kinds Open Mic Nights, 7pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Finkelstein 3 (bluegrass), 3pm

ONE WORLD BREWING Open Mic Downtown, 7:30pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Cosmic Appalachian Soul, 7pm THE DRAFTSMAN BAR + LOUNGE Karaoke Nights, 7pm THE GREY EAGLE Kolton Moore & the Clever Few w/Jordan Nix (country, rock), 8pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN • DJ5 Silent Disco (all church jam), 2pm • The Black Feathers (Americana, folk, indierock), 7:30pm PLĒB URBAN WINERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 4pm

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Mashup Mondays w/ The JLloyd Mashup Band, 8pm THE JOINT NEXT DOOR Mr Jimmy & Friends (blues), 7pm THE RIVER ARTS DISTRICT BREWING CO. Trivia w/Billy, 7pm

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 ARCHETYPE BREWING Trivia Tuesday, 6:30pm

5 WALNUT WINE BAR CaroMia, Rahm, Iannuci & Jaze Uries (dreampop, soul, R&B), 8pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Saylor Brothers & Friends (jamgrass), 6:30pm

SHAKEY'S Booty Tuesday w/DJ GrimmJoi, 9pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Well-Crafted Music w/ Matt Smith, 6pm

SHILOH & GAINES Open Mic, 7pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Tuesday Night Open Jam, 8pm THE GREY EAGLE Logan Halstead & Willy Tea Taylor (country, folk, Americana), 8pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Open Mic Tuesday, 7pm

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 12 BONES BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO. Trivia! Trivia!, 6:30pm BARLEY'S TAPROOM & PIZZERIA Trivia Night w/ PartyGrampa, 7pm

NEW ORIGIN Trivia, 7pm

DIFFERENT WRLD • Everybody But You Bro Open Mic, 6pm • GAGGING: A Queer Comedy Showcase, 8pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Team Trivia, 7pm

FLEETWOOD'S Psych Night w/DJ Torren, 9pm

FLEETWOOD'S Spooky Tuesdays, 9pm

27 CLUB Monday Karaoke, 9pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST The Grateful Family Band Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Old Time Jam, 5pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Bluegrass Jam w/Derek McCoy & Friends, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8:30pm SHAKEY'S Sexy Service Industry Night, 10pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic, 8pm THE DRAFTSMAN BAR + LOUNGE Trivia Nights, 7pm THE GREY EAGLE Stick Men (prog-rock), 8pm THE ODD Cancerslug, Necrogasm & Nox Eternus (metal, rock), 8pm THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Dan's Jam (bluegrass), 5pm

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29 BLK MTN PIZZA & ALE HOUSE Billy Presnell (folk, Americana), 6pm CROW & QUILL Russ Wilson & The Kings of Jazz, 8pm CULTURA Vinyl Night w/DJ Lil Meow Meow, 8pm EULOGY Humandala & Funkbox (experimental, bass, funk), 7:30pm FLEETWOOD'S Search & Destroy Punk Karaoke, 5pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Jerry's Dead (Grateful Dead & JGB Tribute), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Not Rocket Science Trivia, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7:30pm LAZOOM ROOM BAR & GORILLA Leap Day Comedy, 7pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Bill Altman (blues), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING David Cheatham (acoustic), 7pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Lemon City Trio (souljazz, space-rock), 8pm OUTSIDER BREWING Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm SALVAGE STATION Robert Jon & The Wreck (Southern-rock), 8pm SHILOH & GAINES Karaoke Night, 8pm THE GREY EAGLE Cole Chaney (country), 8pm THE ODD Mincorcan, Lurky Sturk & Little Champion (indie, rock, 8pm THE ORANGE PEEL Drake White (Southern-country, blues, rock), 8pmTHE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Broken Sound (Americana), 7pm THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Mr Jimmy (blues), 6:30pm URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Bachata Thursdays, 8:30pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Trivia, 6:30pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Irish Music Session, 7pm

ASHEVILLE’S PREMIER NON-ALCOHOLIC MUSIC VENUE SUN: Cosmic Appalachian Soul Sundays, 7pm MON: Ping-Pong Tournament, 6pm TUE: Open Jam w/ house band the Lactones, 8pm WED: Poetry Open Mic AVL, 8:30pm/8pm signup

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F R E E W I L L A S T R O L O G Y BY ROB BREZSNY ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries filmmaker Akira Kurosawa was one of the greats. In his 30 films, he crafted a reputation as a masterful storyteller. A key moment in his development as an emotionally intelligent artist came when he was 13 years old. His older brother Heigo took him to view the aftermath of the Great Kantō earthquake. Akira wanted to avert his gaze from the devastation, but Heigo compelled him to look. Why? He wished for Akira to learn to deal with fear by facing it directly. I think you Aries people are more skilled at this challenging exercise than all the other signs. I hope you will call on it with aplomb in the coming weeks. You may be amazed at the courage it arouses in you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “When a mountain doesn’t listen, say a prayer to the sea,” said Taurus painter Cy Twombly. “If God doesn’t respond, direct your entreaties to Goddess,” I tell my Taurus friend Audrey. “If your mind doesn’t provide you with useful solutions, make an appeal to your heart instead,” my Taurus mentor advises me. This counsel should be useful for you in the coming weeks, Taurus. It’s time to be diligent, relentless, ingenious and indefatigable in going after what you want. Keep asking until you find a source that will provide it.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gemini philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson offered advice that’s perfect for you right now. He said, “Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us, or we find it not.” Here’s what I will add. First, you very much need to commune with extra doses of beauty in the coming weeks.

Doing so will expedite your healing and further your education — two activities that are especially important. Second, one way to accomplish your assignment is to put yourself in the presence of all the beautiful people, places and things you can find. Third, be imaginative as you cultivate beauty within yourself. How? That’s your homework.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): I bet that sometime soon, you will dream of flying through the sky on a magic carpet. In fact, this may be a recurring dream for you in the coming months. By June, you may have soared along on a floating rug over 10 times. Why? What’s this all about? I suspect it’s one aspect of a project that life is encouraging you to undertake. It’s an invitation to indulge in more flights of the imagination; to open your soul to mysterious potencies; to give your fantasy life permission to be wilder and freer. You know that old platitude “shit happens”? You’re ready to experiment with a variation on that: “Magic happens.”

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): On February 22, ancient Romans celebrated the holiday of Caristia. It was a time for reconciliation. People strove to heal estrangements and settle longstanding disagreements. Apologies were offered, and truces were negotiated. In alignment with current astrological omens, Leo, I recommend you revive this tradition. Now is an excellent time to embark on a crusade to unify, harmonize, restore, mend, and assuage. I dare you to put a higher priority on love than on ego!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): My poet friend Jafna likes to say that only two types of love are available to us: too little and too much. We are either deprived of the precise amount and quality of the love we want, or else we have to deal with an excess of love that doesn’t match the kind we want. But I predict that this will at most be a mild problem for you in the coming weeks — and perhaps not a problem at all. You will have a knack for giving and receiving just the right amount of love, neither too little nor too much. And the love flowing toward you and from you will be gracefully appropriate.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If the devil card comes up for me in a divinatory Tarot reading, I don’t get worried or scared that something bad might happen. On the contrary, I interpret it

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favorably. It means that an interesting problem or riddle has arrived or will soon arrive in my life — and that this twist can potentially make me wiser, kinder, and wilder. The appearance of the devil card suggests that I need to be challenged so as to grow a new capacity or understanding. It’s a good omen, telling me that life is conspiring to give me what I need to outgrow my limitations and ignorance. Now apply these principles, Libra, as you respond to the devil card I just drew for you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A taproot is a thick, central and primary root from which a plant’s many roots branch out laterally.

Typically, a taproot grows downward and is pretty straight. It may extend to a depth greater than the height of the plant sprouting above ground. Now let’s imagine that we humans have metaphorical taproots. They connect us with our sources of inner nourishment. They are lifelines to secret or hidden treasures we may be only partly conscious of. Let’s further imagine that in the coming months, Scorpio, your taproot will flourish, burgeon and spread deeper to draw in new nutrients. Got all that?

Now I invite you to infuse this beautiful vision with an outpouring of love for yourself and for the wondrous vitality you will be absorbing.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Behavioral ecologist Professor Dan Charbonneau has observed the habits of ants, bees and other social insects. He says that a lot of the time, many of them just lounge around doing nothing.

In fact, most animals do the same. The creatures of the natural world are just not very busy.

Psychologist Dr. Sandi Mann urges us to learn from their lassitude. “We’ve created a society where we fear boredom, and we’re afraid of doing nothing,” she says. But that addiction to frenzy may limit our inclination to daydream, which in turn inhibits our creativity. I bring these facts to your attention, Sagittarius, because I suspect you’re in a phase when lolling around doing nothing much will be extra healthy for you.

Liberate and nurture your daydreams, please!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “Education is an admirable thing,” wrote Oscar Wilde, “but it is well to remember that nothing worth knowing can be taught.” As I ponder your future in the coming weeks, I vociferously disagree with him. I am sure you can learn many things worth knowing from teachers of all kinds. It’s true that some of the lessons may be accidental or unofficial — and not delivered by traditional teachers. But that won’t diminish their value.

I invite you to act as if you will in effect be enrolled in school 24/7 until the equinox.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The planets Mars and Venus are both cruising through Aquarius. Do they signify that synchronicities will weave magic into your destiny? Yes! Here are a few possibilities I foresee: 1. smoldering flirtations that finally ignite; 2. arguments assuaged by love-making; 3. mix-ups about the interplay between love and lust or else wonderful synergies between love and lust; 4. lots of labyrinthine love talk, romantic sparring, and intricate exchange about the nature of desire; 5. adventures in the sexual frontiers; 6. opportunities to cultivate interesting new varieties of intimacy.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Unlike the Pope’s decrees, my proclamations are not infallible. As opposed to Nostradamus and many modern soothsayers, I never imagine I have the power to definitely decipher what’s ahead. One of my main mottoes is “The future is undecided.

Our destinies are always mutable.” Please keep these caveats in mind whenever you commune with my horoscopes. Furthermore, consider adopting my approach as you navigate through the world — especially in the coming weeks, when your course will be extra responsive to your creative acts of willpower. Decide right now what you want the next chapter of your life story to be about. You can make it what you want.

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ELEMENTARY LEAD TEACHER Independent, holistic school in Brevard seeks Lead Teacher for 1st - 3rd grade class. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to Lindsay Skelton, Executive Director: lindsays@mountainsunschool.org.

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T HE N E W Y O R K T I ME S C R O S S W O R D P U ZZLE edited by Will Shortz | No. 0117

ACROSS 1 Accelerated path of advancement 5 Ballot with votes for multiple parties 10 Cherish 14 ___ manual 15 Pre-nursing homes?

16 Female friend, in French 17 Nothin’ 18 Potter’s area of expertise 19 Kind of bean in succotash 20 Special talents 22 Inquire about the health of 24 Product once advertised with the slogan “Everything you love about coffee without everything you don’t” 25 What an office computer whiz might provide, for short 26 Last JulioClaudian emperor 28 Promotion for a new credit account, maybe 32 Stimulating drug, informally 35 Bit of traditional Polynesian attire 37 Mixed drink mixer 38 Question often preceded by “But …”

40 Stayed in shape 43 Big bundle 44 Novelist Wharton 46 Eroded, with “away” 47 Ultra-rapid transit options 50 Orcinus ___ (marine species) 51 Bit of cowhand’s gear 53 Game that everyone but one person barely loses?

58 Many North Africans 61 “Interesting idea, but … huh-uh” 62 Kick back 63 “OK, that’s it for me!”

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65 Crash, with “out” 66 Prefix with thesis 67 Silently acknowledge 68 Toon with yellow fur 69 U.K. network moniker, with “the” 70 Smirnoff competitor, familiarly 71 One with an eye on the future?

23 Sierra Nevada, e.g.

25 Really ticked off 27 What you might do on the side of caution 29 Two-seater, perhaps 30 Toolbar heading 31 – 32 ___ Xtra (soft drink) 33 Biblical twin 34 – 36 – 39 Bend the truth, say 41 When doubled, “You get the idea” 42 Adolescence, for one

DOWN 1 Low states 2 Downward dog in yoga, e.g.

3 Hatchback alternative 4– 5 Totals 6 Org. that may be involved in field trip planning 7 Musical passages with smooth, connected notes 8 Kind of terrier 9– 10 1:30 or 2:30, e.g.

11 Drop 12 Shade of green 13 – 21 Mother in the Hundred Acre Wood

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45 “Copy me” 48 You might play something by this 49 – 52 Expensive bar 54 Section of Chipotle’s menu 55 ___ Island 56 Bellybutton type, informally 57 – 58 Big slice 59 Top-notch 60 “I am free of all prejudices.

I ___ everyone equally”: W. C. Fields 61 Subject of a hairy hoax 64 Kilmer of Batman fame

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ANSWER TO PREVIOUS NY TIMES PUZZLE

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