Mountain Xpress 11.08.23

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OPINION

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

Why can’t we promote peace in holiday parade?

The Asheville Downtown Association’s parade committee has denied the application of the Only One Earth Coalition to march in the annual holiday parade on Nov. 18.

The Only One Earth Coalition is an association of local organizations that promote saving our planet and peace on Earth.

While recognizing the other cultural and faith-based celebrations during this time, the celebration of the holy day (versus commercial holiday?) of the birth of Jesus is usually what first comes to mind when we speak of “the holidays.”

Although the coalition was permitted to participate in last year’s parade, apparently promoting peace at an event based on celebrating the birth of the Prince of Peace will not be allowed this year.

Many of my Christian family members and friends lament how commercial their sacred holy day has become. I would think that a parade unit supporting peace on Earth and saving Earth — far more in line with the true meaning and purpose of the Christmas holy day than the commercial event into which it has evolved — would be welcomed.

I have lived in Asheville for 23-plus years. I had many reasons for relocating here, one being Asheville’s embrace of inclusivity, especially of people and characteristics that made our town fun and unique. Sadly, much of that quality has been lost during recent years.

Can we not try to keep some of that inclusivity alive during this season by allowing a parade unit that promotes care for our home — Earth — and peace as a big way to do that? A parade that is supposedly based on a day celebrating the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, whom Christians embrace in their faith?

In closing, I would like to note that I have observed high school ROTC units in previous years’ holiday parades. Why not balance such military-based displays with a unit devoted to peace?

— Cynthia Heil Asheville

Asheville’s eclectic nature rejected from parade I marched in the holiday parade last year with the Only One Earth Coalition and a small group of Asheville Third Act NC members.

It was great fun! The coalition was a very colorful entrant; the Brass

denied entry into the parade because we were too “political.” There are many groups in Only One Earth, but they all stand for protecting our environment, nonviolence, health care for all, stopping our military-industrial complex and working for peace in our world. I was in the parade last year and helped hand out tiny origami peace doves. They were very, very small compared to the fake missile.

What I am having trouble understanding is how standing for peace and against environmental destruction, including by military industries, is too “political,” but having the ROTC and a fake missile in the parade is not too “political.”

If the holiday parade can tolerate military trainees and floats with fake missiles on them, surely the holiday parade can tolerate signs and T-shirts that promote peace, disarmament, health care and protecting the environment.

— Susan Oehler Asheville

C A RT O O N B Y R AN DY M O L T O N Your Heart band was excellent; and people in attendance loved us! This year, the coalition’s application was rejected, and local Third Act NC members were looking forward to marching in the parade.

Third Act is an organization of experienced Americans over the age of 60 founded by Bill McKibben.

Third Act NC members work to protect our planet and society to change the world for the better. Together, we use our life experience, skills and resources to build a better tomorrow.

I sent an email to the Asheville Downtown Association organizers, including information about Third Act NC, in hopes that they would reconsider having Only One Earth Coalition in the holiday parade.

Nineteen of us sent an email to the parade organizers to express our desire to march in the parade again, but our application was rejected apparently because we are considered political. I can honestly say that every Asheville organization in the Only One Earth Coalition works to help the planet and/or our society.

I have lived in Asheville for 41 years, and many local people, including myself, as well as people who visit Asheville, love and appreciate Asheville’s eclectic culture. Explore Asheville recently said, “This thriving mountain city features a funky and eclectic downtown.” Friends of mine often use the phrase, “It’s so Asheville,” which is what the Only One Earth parade entry was last year. Recently, I am seeing our city’s eclectic nature being rejected, as in this situation, and Asheville succumbing to corporate entities!

— Cheryl T. Orengo Third Act NC Asheville

Concerns about the holiday parade I have concerns about the Asheville Holiday Parade. In the past, I have seen ROTC and military veterans with a float that had a large missile on it in the parade. No holiday cheer for me in those displays. But I believe in free speech. I really wish they were not in the parade, but I know that if we want free speech, it has to apply to everyone.

But what really inspired me to write this letter was the fact that the group Only One Earth is being

How does peace not fit in holiday parade?

As a participant in last year’s parade with the Only One Earth Coalition, I can attest to the fact that we were met with support and enthusiasm by the parade’s audience.

This year, the coalition’s application to be in the parade was denied, apparently because of concerns

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OPINION

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

about some signage being viewed as “political.” The term political can be defined in various ways. Here is one definition from Merriam-Webster: of, relating to, involving or involved in politics, and especially party politics.

The coalition represented a broad cross-section of individuals and groups who are part of the fabric of this community. There were no signs promoting a political party involved in electoral politics.

If promoting peace, environmental sustainability and human rights in a holiday parade have become too controversial in the “Christmas season,” then we are certainly in a sad state indeed. Parade organizers seem to have no problem with the overt commercialization of the season, yet it has a problem with the expression of universal values that might actually lead to “peace on Earth” and “goodwill toward all?”

I’ve lived in Asheville for 45 years and have been a co-founder of three schools here —Rainbow Community School, Shalom Children’s Center and Francine Delany New School for Children, in addition to teaching in the public schools. I’d say I have been committed to the betterment of this community for years, yet some-

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how, I and my colleagues in the Only One Earth Coalition are some kind of a threat to the organizers and promoters of the parade?

— Anne Craig Asheville

Asheville Downtown Association should reconsider holiday parade parameters We in the Only One Earth Coalition were surprised to hear from the Asheville Downtown Association that our application for the 2023 Holiday Parade was denied. Having been very well-received last year, our group of 15 local peace and justice organizations had been looking forward to once again walking to bring messages calling for working together for a better world.

Last year, we had over 80 people in our contingent, including representatives of Sunrise, Veterans for Peace, BeLoved Asheville, HealthCare for All, Physicians for Social Responsibility, Land of the Sky UCC, Circle of Mercy, Reject Raytheon and the fabulous Brass

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Your Heart marching band. We carried a giant model of Mother Earth, gave out peace stickers and were even accompanied by Buddhist monks from the Great Smoky Mountains Peace Pagoda.

This year, we are told that we somehow violated the parade’s policy of “no politics.” In particular, three signs among all of those displayed by our diverse group were said to be against their rules: 1. Stop (W)Arming the Earth 2. Green New Deal for Asheville 3. Ho, Ho, Ho, Nukes Have Got to Go! But the first two signs had explicitly been approved in our application, and the third was a lighter version of a message about nuclear weapons that had been submitted and approved.

It seems the parade organizers consider calling for solutions to the climate emergency, endless wars and the threat of nuclear weapons “political?” Is calling attention to the existential crises facing humanity off-limits in the season of peace on Earth?

It appears that our messaging didn’t fit into the committee’s notion of “fun community members showing their holiday spirit.” But if Only One Earth Coalition is deemed too political, then what of the corporations, big hotels and other commercial interests that sponsor the event and are prominently featured in the parade? Private commercial advertising is deemed OK, while messaging for the common good is not. And what of ROTC units that are included, despite their implicit promotion of warfare just by their uniformed presence? But promoting human survival on this planet is too “political.”

We believe that the holidays are a fitting time to highlight the efforts and messages of those working to improve and protect life on Earth.

From Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to the movie It’s a Wonderful Life, our popular culture has taken this season of giving to make us more aware of the inequities and injustices in the world. And the various sacred traditions — Christian, Jewish, Muslim and others — have always connected the season’s greetings with a call to heed the golden rule in deeds, not just words. Despite the ubiquitous commercialization of the holidays, the “reason for the season” calls us to put our faith into good works for the sake of all humanity. And the Indigenous worldview reminds us that we must live in harmony with Mother Earth or perish.

The Asheville Downtown Association should reconsider its

definition of “political” and move beyond the narrow confines of having a “fun” event. It should embrace our hopes for a better future for those very children who come to the parade in such numbers. Doesn’t the public deserve to see that there are people in the community working to make those hopes a reality for our kids?

We think it is a sad commentary about those promoting and organizing this annual event that they cannot see that the groups in Only One Earth Coalition are a vital part of our Asheville community and deserve to be celebrated and raised up, not excluded.

— Ken Jones Retired professor Swannanoa Editor’s note: Xpress reached out to the Asheville Downtown Association about this letter and the others in this issue about Only One Earth Coalition’s holiday parade application, but Executive Director Hayden Plemmons declined to offer a response.

Thanks, community, for building Candace Pickens Memorial Park More than two years after Jones Park was demolished, the voices and shouts of children can be heard enjoying the playground renamed for Candace Pickens. What started as the dream of one man, David Rodgers, grew to a broad-based movement.

Beginning in September 2021, shortly after the original playground was taken down, David started soliciting private donations to pay for a new park and recruited a cadre of 14 like-minded souls to manage all aspects of the project: volunteers, IT, media, food for the volunteers, child care, tools and artwork. For weeks prior to actual construction, businesses put messages on their marquees, windows, theater screens and billboards supporting park construction and urging people to volunteer.

Over the five construction days, Oct. 4-8, hundreds of community volunteers, some working every day, labored to build the Candace Pickens Memorial Park. Hardware and home improvement companies donated gift cards with which tools were purchased. A crane and the services of an operator were donated to lift the caps of some of the playground features. Restaurants donated food to feed the volunteers two meals a day.

Finally, on Oct. 19, Candace Pickens Memorial Park was opened in what Jenny Pickens, Candace’s

CARTOON BY BRENT BROWN aunt, called a “great rising.” One grandmother said the “joy” was palpable. Lowell Grabel, one of two volunteer coordinators, came up with a motto — “The community built a park; the park built community” — which pretty well characterized the spirit that evolved over two years of hard work.

Thank you, community!

— Michael N. Lewis Asheville

Listen to downtown and South Slope business owners I am writing in response to recent decisions made by Asheville City Council regarding downtown. These include the bike lanes on College Street and the diversion of $2 million from South Slope to McCormick Field. (Don’t start me on the gimme to McCormick.)

Ms. Esther Manheimer feels that “if you get the people out of their cars, walking around and hanging out, you create a safer environment.

More eyes on the street is a more safe city.” I have to ask if the eyes of the Council are on the street.

The evidence shows that, even though they all work downtown, it took national media attention and

a scathing series of articles by the Asheville Watchdog before any attention was given to this vital issue. It seems like they really had no idea it was a problem until there was a possibility of tourist dollars being affected. Downtown workers and locals want the streets to be safe first, not to be the “eyes” watching the crime, misery and mental illness unfold. Do they seriously think us gawking at these things will keep them from happening?

A laughable assurance regarding the bike lanes was contributed by Sage Turner: “If we see businesses fall to the wayside and leave downtown because they can’t handle the bike lane, then I will be the first to call the three women up here who are not supportive of it and say, ‘We have got a problem, and I need the four of us to rally and fix it.’”

Really? First, Ms. Turner, in this hypothetical scenario should say, “We created a problem …” And so once local businesses have fled downtown, they can undo the damage and they will come back? Is that how the real world works?

Speaking of undoing damage, let’s not forget Merrimon Avenue.

I personally will never travel that road again. I have found other businesses in different parts of the city to frequent instead. The traffic is a nightmare, and the bike lanes are

not being used enough to justify the fustercluck the area has become. Has this problem been acknowledged by the Council? Are they collectively going to “rally and fix it”? Or will it be another shrug and move on?

Since it is not a tourist area and mere locals are at stake, of course, it will be the latter.

I urge the Council to listen to downtown and South Slope business owners. I respectfully remind them that the vision and creativity of local business owners are what saved downtown in the first place.

As I’m sure they recall, the “vision” of local government at the time was to gut downtown and build a mall.

Yes, I realize different politicians were on the Council at the time. I do believe, however, that the different perspectives of elected officials and local business owners remain widely divergent. Although I belong to neither group, I would give more weight to people who have invested sweat, money and time into enterprises that, should they fail, would mean disaster to them, their families and their employees. Maybe they know something that people elected to office for a few years don’t.

Please listen.

— Julia Martin Asheville

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NEWS

Not on my sidewalk

Neighborhood backlash derails North Asheville emergency shelter

BY JESSICA WAKEMAN jwakeman@mountainx.com Misinformation, inadequate communication and unsubstantiated fears have scuttled plans to offer temporary shelter for homeless people at a North Asheville church.

Last year, congregants from Grace Episcopal Church on Merrimon Avenue traveled to West Asheville to volunteer for the Safe Shelter program. This fall, Grace Episcopal was gearing up to offer its own space as a potential host site.

Safe Shelter is a collaboration involving Grace Episcopal and two other churches — Trinity United Methodist and Grace Covenant Presbyterian — as well as a limited liability company called Counterflow. Together, they work to establish and operate a short-term shelter for underserved members of the area’s homeless population at rotating locations in Asheville. In addition to space in the churches themselves, the program explores other potential sites such as vacant or underutilized buildings. Besides providing temporary lodging, the collaborative’s long-term goal is to help clients move into permanent housing.

In September, however, the Rev. Milly Morrow decided not to offer Grace Episcopal as a potential site for the shelter. Citing intense backlash, Morrow confirmed that “We’re not going to host it at Grace.” The Rev. Mike Reardon, Grace Episcopal’s associate rector, will still be part of the core leadership team, however, and congregants will be encouraged to volunteer.

The backlash began with a private Facebook group and quickly spilled over into phone calls, emails and a tense meeting between church representatives and group members in late September. The ensuing fallout grew increasingly heated, leading Morrow to conclude that “The reality is these folks will be safer outside of North Asheville.” Instead, AHOPE Day Center in downtown Asheville will host Safe Shelter for the next six months.

Many of the neighborhood’s concerns were based on inaccurate assumptions about both the program and the people it seeks to serve.

Longtime Grace Episcopal congregant Katherine Kaderabek, who was involved in last winter’s effort, says she’s proud to have been part of it. “I volunteered on a weekly basis and got to know the residents very well, shared meals with them 8

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to permanent housing. Although the number of beds was small, the guests stayed an average of just 16 days.

Over the next year, the group projects that it will serve 170 people, according to the interim report.

Accordingly, on Sept. 15, Asheville and Buncombe County each allocated $875,000 in federal American Rescue Plan Act money — $1.75 million all told — to fund additional short-term beds for one year at both The Salvation Army and the Haywood Street Congregation as well as Safe Shelter. That funding will enable Safe Shelter to transform last winter’s seasonal program into a fully staffed year-round operation.

The funding agreement between the city and Safe Shelter calls for 10 beds for families and 10 for individuals at rotating locations. When the shelter opened Nov. 6, two families filled nine of the beds reserved for families. Several beds for individuals were filled by people “identified with more urgent needs,” Pizzo says.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

TAKE ME TO CHURCH: Grace Episcopal Church, pictured here, Trinity United Methodist Church in West Asheville and Grace Covenant Presbyterian in North Asheville are three churches that had offered temporary space in their buildings for a short-term shelter. Photo by Jessica Wakeman and played UNO with them. They’re beautiful people. They’re vulnerable. … They’re not bad people at all.”

It’s impossible to know the extent to which more direct communication by various parties might have avoided at least some of the misunderstandings.

But in a larger sense, this saga also illustrates how social media’s broad and instantaneous reach can facilitate the spread of misinformation — and, in the process, perhaps undermine efforts to address pressing needs.

THE BACKSTORY The idea behind Safe Shelter borrows from Room in the Inn, a longtime local program that provides temporary shelter for women at rotating locations in participating houses of worship, as well as case management services. The Safe Shelter collaborative coalesced out of groups involved in the Code Purple initiative, which provides emergency beds during extremely cold weather. The Safe Shelter partners came together to address gaps in the currently available services for homeless people.

One of those partners, Counterflow LLC, was established by Asheville residents Anna and Dan Pizzo in

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April 2022, based partly on their prior experience working with other local organizations.

The following month, the Dogwood Health Trust, as part of an agreement with the City of Asheville and the Buncombe County commissioners, provided funds to hire the National Alliance to End Homelessness, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit, to assess the needs of the local homeless population and make recommendations for meeting them.

Winter Safe Shelter, as the collaborative was originally known, was established that fall and funded by various entities including the City of Asheville. The seasonal initiative, which had a few paid staffers in addition to church volunteers, ran from last December through March of this year.

Meanwhile, at a Jan. 25, 2023, joint session of City Council and the county commissioners, the consultants presented their findings, which included the need for more shelter beds.

The recommendations aim to reduce “unsheltered homelessness” by 50% in two years. An interim report released by Winter Safe Shelter the following month stated that as of that point, 71% of exiting guests, including 100% of families, had transitioned

North Asheville resident Tara Maria Hackett belonged to a private Facebook group called The North Report that has since been shut down.

On Sept. 25, she posted a photo of a man sleeping on the sidewalk in front of Grace Episcopal, wrapped in a blanket with a pair of shoes beside him. The caption underneath it took issue with the idea that the church would receive thousands of dollars to provide beds for homeless people while neighborhood residents would be tripping over folks sprawled on the sidewalk. Hackett’s post included Grace Episcopal’s email address; she also called and emailed the church herself. Asked later what her thoughts were when she saw the sleeping man, Hackett told Xpress, “You’re gonna bring beds up here and homeless people and you’re getting public funding, you should be taking care of them. ... I just showed concern, and that’s really all there is.”

Meanwhile, in a lengthy post on the thread, North Report administrator Honor Moor wrote: “Why are we moving resources into North Asheville when we have tried-and-true resources at WNC Rescue Mission, ABCCM who know how to handle the chronically helpless addicted? Why would we move this destitute population near two schools and a new small children’s park with million-dollar houses?” Later in the same post, she wrote: “Next, the traveling needle vans. We are going to see all of what EAST and WEST is getting.”

Moor is a co-founder of the Asheville Coalition for Public Safety. Created

“They’re beautiful people.

They’re vulnerable. …

They’re not bad people at all.”

— Safe Shelter volunteer Katherine Kaderabek in October 2022, the grassroots group advocates for higher police pay as a way to address its concerns about crime, mental health, drug use and the homeless population.

When asked what had prompted her comments about syringes, Moor responded: “I have no information.

The North Report administrators do not believe that needles should be dispensed in residential neighborhoods all over Asheville.” She declined to disclose the names of the other administrators.

TENSE EXCHANGES In the wake of Hackett’s North Report post, Rev. Morrow says she received emails from 12 people, as well as phone calls. And while a couple of the emails supported the church’s participation in Safe Shelter, most did not. She says she told those folks that the man in the photo is a church member and a safe person, adding, “I suggest you go down and just meet him.”

A subsequent email exchange between Morrow and Hackett over several days cuts to the heart of the dispute. Morrow shared those emails with Xpress.

Hackett claims the church never responded to her calls, but in fact, Morrow emailed her within hours, writing, “Feel free to call me regarding your concerns about the man who is on our property” and providing her phone number. When she didn’t hear back, however, Morrow wrote again two days later, saying “It is inappropriate and causes division to spread misinformation out of fear, based on lack of complete information.”

In response, Hackett wrote, “You keep those on church property following the letter of the law and keep the public sidewalks clear in front of that property, or I can assure you, you’ve not begun to see concern.”

To which Morrow replied, “Are you threatening me?”

That same day, Hackett wrote back, “I’m promising you that I will continue to inform and rally my neighbors, neighborhood businesses and my community to keep it safe from illegal and suspicious activities.”

Morrow then said she needed more information about the “illegal activity that you fear we are aiding. … I am

SAFE HAVENS: In addition to the Safe shelters, Asheville has six shelters that operate year-round and serve different populations. Some of the shelters, indicated in purple on the map, also provide additional beds during Code Purple — a seasonal effort among the City of Asheville, Buncombe County and local shelters to keep as many unsheltered people as possible out of the cold when temperatures are at or below 32 degrees or between 33-40 degrees with precipitation.

This season, Code Purple runs Oct. 15-April 30. afraid I cannot be of any help if I don’t know exactly what you are asking me to manage and control.”

Hackett responded, “I am going to need you to stop harassing me with these passive-aggressive, bothersome emails with questions about help that I did not request. … Do not reply again.’”

And to that, Morrow tells Xpress, “I didn’t say anything.”

A HARD MEETING The miscommunication continued face to face on Sept. 28, when

Morrow met with Moor, another North Report group member whom Moor declined to identify, and Ben Scales, a longtime congregant and former senior warden at the church.

“It was really a hard meeting — just really, really hard,” Morrow said later, and her and Moor’s deeply conflicting accounts bear that out.

According to Moor, Morrow “decided to surprise us and bring an attorney to our meeting, which made no sense, since we were there to understand the church programming.” However, both Scales and Morrow say he’s never been employed by either the

church or Morrow and that hiring an attorney who’s a congregant would violate church policy.

Moor also reports that “We asked what population they wanted to serve and they said all populations, including the drug addicted and chronically homeless.”

“That is absolutely not true,” Morrow tells Xpress. According to the terms of the ARPA funding agreement, she explains, “The specific community that Safe Shelter works

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N EWS with are the most marginalized communities: LGBTQ, BIPOC, families.”

Moor also claims she was told that the church allows overnight camping on its property.

“That is a lie,” counters Morrow.

“We had a church member [the man in the photo] sleeping on the property; he was also cleaning up every day.

He came to church on Tuesdays and Sundays. … He occasionally slept in the back because he felt safe there. I did not call the police on him because he was not violent or disruptive: He was helpful.” And though she says church leadership has called the police to remove individuals “a couple of times” based on unsafe behavior, they “take a lot of time to get to know folks before we tell them to move on.”

During the meeting, Moor says she was also told that the church was “going to be serving meals soon.”

Morrow, however, says, “That is a lie: I wish we did. ... That is literally my job — to feed the poor,” she points out, adding, “It’s sad that I’m not doing that.”

Reardon, Grace Episcopal’s associate rector, said later that when people hear about a potential shelter, “They imagine we are dealing with the most severe cases of mental illness. And

“Next, the traveling needle vans. We are going to see all of what EAST and WEST is getting.”

— The North Report administrator Honor Moor those people deserve shelter too. But the services they require are not what we’re capable of providing.”

THE UNDERSERVED Safe Shelter is far from the only local program serving the area’s homeless population. But the collaborative is designed to reach people who may fall through the cracks.

Because there are separate shelters for men and women, for example, couples can’t stay together. And since boys older than 13 aren’t allowed in the shelters serving women and children, they’re sent to the men’s shelter on their own.

According to Counterflow’s website, this year’s rotating facility will be fully staffed, including “a dedicated community health worker to support guests with permanent housing and other needs.”

The collaborative obtained a lease to operate the temporary shelter at AHOPE and acquired a temporary use permit from the City of Asheville.

Grace Episcopal’s decision not to offer shelter space, she says, was one factor in the program’s current plans.

As for drug use, notes Anna Pizzo, “Safe Shelter will not distribute needles to guests, and we will not permit any illicit substance or alcohol at Safe Shelter locations.” That is partly because there will be children in the shelter and partly to ensure the safety of the staff and other guests, she explains. Both The Steady Collective, a local nonprofit, and Buncombe County Health and Human Services operate needle exchange programs, but Morrow says Grace Episcopal has no plans to partner with either of them.

Neighbors concerned about needles and drugs might be surprised by the program’s actual clientele, Pizzo points out. “The majority of the previous Safe Shelter guests would not be recognizable as homeless if you were to come across them in daily lives.”

Last year’s guests, she says, included someone who moved to Asheville for employment but whose intended

living situation fell through and they couldn’t afford to keep staying in hotels. Another person had a young child and had left a domestic violence situation. In yet another case a family with children moved to Asheville because of the father’s job but had been living in their minivan. There were also several elderly women who’d been living in their cars.

MOVING PARTS The Grace Episcopal dispute underscores the challenges involved in balancing the need for transparency and community outreach with the complex logistics of finding sites for such facilities and jumping through the requisite hoops to get them up and running.

Some of the neighbors felt that information was being withheld. “There was no community outreach” about the shelter, Hackett told Xpress. Moor, meanwhile, said she didn’t learn much from the contentious Sept. 28 meeting with Morrow and Scales.

Safe Shelter, however, says the nature of its work requires scouting multiple potential sites that may not pan out. “We’re not going to keep every neighborhood abreast of all the things we explore that don’t necessarily materialize,” Pizzo explains.

“As soon as things are confirmed, we make an effort to share that with the community.”

For her part, Morrow describes the situation as “a conversation, moving parts, puzzle pieces.”

There are also significant financial considerations. Under the terms of the American Rescue Plan Act, the program has to have a fiscal agent that commits to paying employees and contractors, says Emily Ball, homeless strategy division manager for the City of Asheville. And while Trinity United Methodist is taking on that role this year, all three partner churches, notes Morrow, had to figure out “how we are going to do that in a way that we have mutual responsibility ... so that one church doesn’t end up holding the

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fiscal responsibility and be unable to do that.”

As for the concerns about the use of public money, Reardon rejects the idea that Safe Shelter and other “people in homeless services are getting wealthy off of the services they provide and that they, in fact, don’t want to see the problem ameliorated or even solved ... because it deepens their pockets.” And to folks who don’t understand how grant money or federal funding works, he says flatly, “I don’t receive a cent from this project.”

Once Safe Shelter’s plans are finalized, the church leaders will use sermons and letters to the congregation to encourage congregants to volunteer. But from the program’s point of view, says Pizzo, it’s premature and counterproductive to disseminate limited and possibly inaccurate information while the plans are still so fluid.

FACE TO FACE At first glance, the dispute between Grace Episcopal and the Facebook group members seems a clear-cut case of how social media can effect change: A concerned resident encouraged like-minded people to contact the church, they did, and the church declined to serve as a host site.

Viewed through a different lens, however, the incident highlights the potential for harm that can result from jumping to conclusions — and then broadcasting them via social media.

In the first place, there were no beds for the homeless at the church.

And at that stage, notes Morrow, “We weren’t even sure if [the temporary shelter] would be hosted at Grace.”

In any case, this year’s Safe Shelter program hadn’t even started yet.

In an Oct. 9 email to Xpress, Moor explained that her Facebook comments were “written before we had any knowledge of which population would be served. … After speaking to a parishioner privately, I personally think it’s a fantastic program.”

Meanwhile, Morrow says there’s nothing unusual about homeless people sleeping on church grounds. “It happens in every church,” she maintains, and the only way to prevent it would be to conduct 24-hour surveillance. But that’s not something she’d be open to doing, “considering my position as a Christian.”

Both church leaders and some members of the congregation, notes Morrow, know the sleeping man seen in the North Report photo “because we took time to get to know him, and we’re working with lots of different people to try and stabilize and get care. Because people at my church chose to do that. Because they weren’t afraid.” X

NEWS

Reset room

Charter school puts a dent in Asheville’s racial achievement gap

BY GREG PARLIER gparlier@mountainx.com At PEAK Academy during a recent school day, a student was repeatedly speaking out of turn in class, intentionally disrupting the learning process for other students. A teacher stepped out to walk with him down the hall, acknowledging his frustrations rather than blaming him for feeling upset. A little break from the classroom may be all he needed, the teacher offered.

They were on their way to what PEAK administrators call a “reset room” — a place students who may be feeling overwhelmed, inadequate or downright indignant can go to assess their emotions and reset until they are in a place where learning is once again possible. In many instances, this is used in lieu of traditional discipline, when a student might otherwise earn a write-up or trip to the principal’s office for repeatedly speaking out of turn or belittling his classmates.

This technique is one example of how the third-year Asheville public charter school, whose student body is majority Black, has begun to successfully close an achievement gap between white and Black students that has consistently been an issue in Asheville City Schools since it earned a worst-in-the-state designation in 2017.

The school was born after Black community leaders’ frustrations with continued failures by a revolving door of ACS superintendents — there had been four in six years at that point — to successfully address the issue boiled over in 2019, says Dwight Mullen, a retired professor of political science at UNC Asheville who serves on the board of PEAK Academy.

“Each one of them had been hired to address and close the disparities by race. And none of them were successful — none of them. So that led to the charter school approach,” he says.

The result was PEAK Academy, a public charter school started in 2021 in a building owned by Trinity United Methodist Church in West Asheville.

PEAK’s executive director, Kidada Wynn, says the mostly Black staff and faculty have created a space where Black students feel accepted, respected and loved in a way that allows them to focus on learning rather than worrying about when they might be disciplined next. The charter also assures that students’ families incur no expenses for sending their children there.

PEAK — an acronym that stands for Prepare and Empower students to Achieve excellence and obtain

SCHOLARLY APPROACH: PEAK Academy teachers and administrators refer to all students as scholars, illustrating the high expectations they have for their students, most of whom come from low-income neighborhoods. Photo courtesy of PEAK Academy Knowledge — started with kindergarten through third grade and added fourth and fifth grades this school year.

Per its charter, it will add at least one grade per year up to eighth grade.

Currently, 176 students are enrolled.

to the students’ level rather than sending them down a disciplinary track.

“We try our very best to ensure that we are extending that patience, that grace. And we’re also giving our kiddos

that ear to kind of listen to what it is that they’re saying, understand where they’re coming from and also use that background knowledge that we have of, ‘Oh, my goodness, this little kiddo might not have had breakfast this morning.

This little kiddo might not have had a good night’s sleep last night.’ We can empathize with that and be like, ‘OK, take a minute if you need to, but you are going to do this. Because it’s not that we can’t, it’s just that we can’t yet.’”

Keeping students in classrooms is just part of an approach that has led to better scores for Black students in grade-level proficiency in math and reading than all schools in the Asheville City Schools district in the 2022-23 school year.

Districtwide, Asheville City Schools’s achievement gap hasn’t improved since 2015-16, when it was the largest of any of the state’s 114 districts, according to data from the N.C. Department of Public Instruction.

“Addressing the long-standing achievement gap within ACS is one of my top priorities,” says ACS Superintendent Maggie Fehrman. “I completely understand the frustration of Black leaders in our community. We know that a strong sense of belonging is one of the foundational elements that needs to be in place for each student to achieve their full

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FEELING SAFE The reset room, which Wynn brought to PEAK when she arrived in November 2022, is one of many techniques administrators say they use to show students that they are safe at school. They say Black students in particular reported feeling afraid of constantly getting in trouble or suspended at traditional public schools before they came to PEAK, making it hard to focus on learning.

That is reflected in data collected by the Youth Justice Project, an arm of the Southern Coalition for Social Justice, showing that Black students in ACS were almost 12 times as likely as white students to receive a shortterm suspension in 2021-22, the most recent school year for which the project had data.

Camesha Minto, PEAK’s director of curriculum instruction and testing, says when students express despair and frustration, teachers at PEAK get down MOUNTAINX.COM

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Academic Proficiency 100%

Reading

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Math

80%

60%

40%

20%

76

16

42.9

80

14

64.3

ACS White Students

ACS Black Students

PEAK Black Students

ACS White Students

ACS Black Students

PEAK Black Students

Source: NC Department of Public Instruction

ACS is Asheville City Schools

ACHIEVEMENT GAP: While Asheville City Schools’ third grade white students continue to outperform the state average, its Black students lag far behind. Third grade was chosen to compare because PEAK Academy does not yet have data for its fourth and fifth graders, since those grades were added this school year. PEAK did not have enough white students in 2022-23 to have a statistically significant sample. Graph by Tina Gaafary EDUCATORS OF COLOR Every teacher at PEAK has a master’s degree and at least 11 years of experience, Wynn says.

Crystal MacKinnon, a board member for PEAK Academy, is quick to highlight that difference for PEAK as opposed to other charter schools.

In North Carolina, charter schools have more lenient rules than traditional public schools when it comes to teacher certifications, but PEAK goes above and beyond those requirements, MacKinnon says.

PLAY TIME: Kindergarten scholars get organized after time on the playground at the public charter school’s location on the campus of Trinity United Methodist Church in West Asheville. Photo courtesy of PEAK Academy 12

State Average

2022-23 grade-level proficiency on end of grade exams for Black & White students (percentage)

Grade Three

potential, and I am committed to ensuring that happens. We are about to undergo a comprehensive strategic planning process focusing on identifying innovative and proven practices to address the disproportionate outcomes in ACS.” Just 14% of Black students achieved grade-level proficiency in math and reading for grades 3-8 in ACS in 2022-23 compared with 74% of white students. In 2016-17, those numbers were 23% and 83% for Black and white students in ACS, respectively.

While there is still a large gap of 38 points in Buncombe County Schools, it mirrors state averages.

Although some assume charter schools scrape the cream off the top of public schools’ student body, part of PEAK’s mission is to serve the most economically disadvantaged students in the community. Iesha Gilliam, PEAK’s director of student services, notes that about 72% of its 176 students live in public housing.

PEAK focuses its recruiting efforts in those lower-income neighborhoods, although it is open to anyone who wishes to attend. Its student body is majority Black, Gilliam says, because those are the students most interested in attending a school geared toward closing the racial achievement gap.

And the school is doing just that. In just its second year open, about 54% of Black students at PEAK achieve grade-level proficiency.

Wynn says in addition to inventive disciplinary tools, another reason PEAK’s students are showing improvement is her successful recruitment of highly educated Black faculty.

“Those two things together [experienced Black staff and tools such as reset rooms] have been what has changed the trajectory of our students’ academic and social careers and lives,” she says.

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“We don’t follow the paradigm of a typical charter school in almost any way,” she says, noting that the school provides transportation, meals and uniforms to students free of charge.

Like a traditional public school, PEAK receives state funding based on its average daily membership, or attendance. Last year, the schools received about $7,300 per student, according to the NCDPI. Unlike traditional public schools, charter schools do not receive additional local funding to supplement their staff pay and cannot request an additional tax levy like Asheville City Schools.

That leaves it to fundraise more than $1.2 million from private donations and local grants this year alone to match the school’s $2.57 million budget, MacKinnon says.

Beyond experience, a major factor of PEAK’s teacher’s success is their background, says Minto, a teaching veteran of 21 years who is originally from Jamaica.

“I think what we do differently here as a school is that we have teachers who actually look like the kids we serve. OK, so these kids can see someone who is here to teach them, to inspire them, who looks just like them,” says Minto, who taught in Wake County, home to Raleigh, before joining PEAK in 2021.

At ACS, according to the Youth Justice Project data, representation is another shortcoming. In 2021-22, 7%

of its teachers were Black, compared with 19% of its student body. At BCS, just 1% of its teachers were Black that year, compared with 7% of its student body. And at PEAK, 85% of its teachers and 92% of its staff are Black, compared with about 74% of its student body. Another 12% of its students identify as multiracial.

“I believe, when you’re a person of color, there are certain things that you’re able to understand [about] kids of color than if you are someone who is Caucasian. Sometimes you don’t, you really don’t get it, because your experience is not there. So, for us here at PEAK, we can identify with our scholars, where they’re coming from, their background and what they need,” Minto says.

That approach works best when teachers look like their students, but Minto says the most important thing is meeting students where they are.

“I’m an educator. So, when I look at kids, even here at PEAK, we have kids who don’t look like me, those kids are welcome just like every other kid.”

Michael Hayes, founder and executive director of Umoja Health, Wellness and Justice Collective, a nonprofit serving trauma-affected youths through the arts, has two students at PEAK. His fifth grader just transferred into PEAK because “he needed to be around a more culturally specific group of people in order to thrive,” Hayes says.

Shared experiences between teachers and students can help in the reset rooms as well, Wynn argues, because when you see someone you love and respect within your teacher, you are more likely to show them respect back.

“They just have a level of understanding and no judgment. It’s a no-judgment zone. And so, our students feel safe, and they feel heard, and they feel confident that they can stand in whatever decision they make.

And they can ask for help. And they can be OK with making a mistake.

All while our standards are very, very high,” Wynn says.

HIGH STANDARDS Those standards are clear from the moment you walk into PEAK, where students are called scholars — not students, or kids — by every adult in the building.

Wynn says she implemented that language as a way to combat her own experience as a student graduate of ACS as well as an employee, where the minimum was expected of her.

“That’s all they expected out of me.

And so, when I would offer more, they didn’t know if it would work,” she says. “I’m taking my lived experience and making it what I wish it would have been here at PEAK.” Those higher expectations, along with teachers that look like the student body and a more restorative approach to discipline, is what Wynn says truly sets PEAK apart.

“We don’t expect you to walk out of class, misbehave and do what you want to do so we can call [your parents] and send you home. We don’t do that. So, the expectation is that when it’s time to learn that you’re learning, when it’s time to play that you play.”

Minto, who manages testing at PEAK, sees greater deficiencies in the students who are transferring in later from other schools than those who started at PEAK in 2021-22.

“So those kiddos are already coming in at a disadvantage, which is the reason why testing is so important for us to understand where they are and what we need to do. Because we’re expecting them to grow two to three grade levels within that one year [to catch up],” she says.

Students who graduate from PEAK will head back to public schools, most likely Asheville High School and ACS. Minto plans to have them on grade level and ready for that transition, she says.

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE Everyone from the PEAK universe who spoke to Xpress for this story

expressed determination for its success. But there are challenges, most prominently space and financing, says Mullen, the founding board member.

“This is a crude way of thinking about it, but … the last time I saw the median income for a Black family it was under $40,000 a year. And we are a school that has a budget of over $2 million a year. So those two don’t match,” says Mullen.

That leaves administrators to fundraise, search for grants, and survive in their small building at Trinity United Methodist Church, where the school is bursting at the seams with three more grades yet to be added.

“It’s hard to keep the doors open and depend so much on private donations and sponsors and stuff because they get donor fatigue,” Wynn says.

Regardless of financing, Mullen acknowledges the future success of the school — and its current and future scholars — relies in part on its relationship with the school districts around it.

Looking at the bigger picture, Mullen is trying to build a community of educational institutions, not just one school that closes the gap.

“If we really, truly want what is best for every scholar, then we would do whatever we could do to make it happen. We would have a healthy school system. It’d be a no-judgment zone,” Wynn says.

“We wouldn’t have to be like crabs in a barrel. We’d have shared resources across the city of Asheville. To help every scholar reach their fullest potential, no matter what they look like, where they come from. They could be their best selves, and we’d make sure of it. And the expectation would be that we hold each other accountable to do so in every building across the city,” she says.

To do that, relationships across schools and districts are necessary, and Mullen and Wynn hold out hope that their vision is attainable.

ACS Superintendent Fehrman and Asheville City Board of Education Chair George Sieburg, for example, have toured PEAK Academy to see what strategies could be duplicated.

Fehrman says she had an amazing experience on her PEAK tour.

“I saw highly engaged students in every classroom learning on grade level or above. I am eager to partner with PEAK and learn from their successes,” she says.

“I think it’s real. I think that [Fehrman is] taking it very seriously.

I’ve had personal conversations [with Fehrman and Sieburg], and they are very much on the same wavelength of being in harmony with us [working] as partners in closing the disparity gap,” Mullen says. X

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NEWS ROUNDUP

Asheville Humane Society launches new center to help families keep pets

Coffee & Cards is a drop-in event for individuals in any level of business to stop in, enjoy a coffee and share business cards with others in the community. This event takes place 8-9 a.m. on the first Wednesday of every month.

Lunch & Learn is 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month and will feature an expert speaker on a variety of topics. Lunch is not provided, but attendees are invited to bring their own.

After Hours Wine-Down is a social happy hour that takes place every second Thursday, 5-6 p.m. More information is at avl.mx/d4y.

Septic repair grants

shelter is open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Asheville-based environmental group MountainTrue is partnering with the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services to provide septic repair grants to qualifying homeowners in Buncombe, Henderson, Mitchell, Transylvania, Yancey and Madison counties.

Private septic systems can begin to fail as they get older or due to neglect, but repairs can be expensive and out of reach for many residents.

Homeowners can apply through MountainTrue to see if they qualify for a state grant to cover the full cost of fixing their septic systems. More information is at avl.mx/cgm.

Mars Hill receives academic equity grant

New financial aid program at UNCA

Mars Hill University has received a nearly $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Strengthening Institutions Program.

The competitive grant focuses on providing equitable opportunities for student success. The funding will allow the university to partner with Portland, Ore.-based company InsideTrack to launch an academic coaching program for students.

The grant also will support the university’s Center for Engaged Teaching and Learning in its initiatives to provide faculty development in success-oriented instructional design.

Additional funding supports the expansion of the Men of Distinction program and resources related to academic advising best practices.

UNC Asheville is launching Access Asheville, a financial aid program designed to make education attainable for low- and middle-income North Carolinians. Access Asheville covers full tuition and fees through grants and scholarships during fall and spring semesters for North Carolina residents whose adjusted gross income is $80,000 or less. The program is open to new first-year and transfer undergraduates entering fall 2024. More information is at avl.mx/d2h.

HELPING HAND: The Asheville Humane Society’s new community sheltering team is available to assist families 10 a.m.4 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Photo courtesy of the Asheville Humane Society The Asheville Humane Society, in partnership with Buncombe County Animal Shelter, is launching a community sheltering center designed to reunite families with their lost pets and provide support for people who are considering surrendering their pets because of a lack of resources. The center will have emergency pet supplies such as food, bedding, flea/tick preventatives as well as community resources such as flyer templates and new lost-and-found pet technologies.

“Buncombe County Animal Shelter is pioneering a visionary shift, empowering the community to lead the way in rehoming owned pets and reuniting lost pets with their families,” said Adam Cotton, director of community solutions of the Asheville Humane Society, in a press release. “By equipping individuals with essential resources, we’re fostering a stronger, more collaborative bond between our shelter and

Nonprofit Issue 14

NOV. 8-14, 2023

the community, ensuring every pet possible finds their home.”

For families who are unable to keep their pets, the community sheltering team will help surrender the pets and get them to the shelter.

“An important part of this new effort is that although we are thrilled by the prospect of keeping families together, we also know that it is not always an option for someone in the community to house a pet they have found or an owner to keep their pet,” said Jeff Hassel, executive director of the Asheville Humane Society, in the release. “After our team engages to find solutions, if a person cannot or will not keep the animal, we will make arrangements to take the animal into the shelter.”

The community sheltering team is available 10 a.m.-4 p.m., MondaySaturday. For all other services, including vaccines, microchips, end-of-life services, lost-and-found reclaim and donation drop-off, the

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Monthly networking events in Weaverville

Publishes November 15th To advertise, contact us today! advertise@mountainx.com

Collab Coworking announced three networking events for the business community in Weaverville.

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Grants for dislocated workers The Southwestern Commission and Land of Sky Regional Council received a $7.5 million U.S. Department of Labor grant to serve dislocated workers in Western North Carolina. Dislocated workers are those who have lost their jobs due to downsizing or closure, such as the closure of the Pactiv Evergreen

plant in Canton. Employers who hire dislocated workers may be eligible for grant funding that would pay for up to 75% of the worker’s salary during their training period. More information is at avl.mx/d2g.

Better Business Bureau president to retire Thomas Bartholomy has announced that he will retire at the end of January as president/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving the Southern Piedmont and Western North Carolina. The BBB, with offices in Charlotte and Asheville, has been led by Bartholomy for 22 years.

Bartholomy began his BBB career in his hometown of Fort Wayne, Ind., in 1982.

Entrepreneurial grant Asheville-based nonprofit Mountain BizWorks was awarded over $2.3 million from the U.S. Minority Business Development Agency. Mountain BizWorks is one of 43 organizations out of a pool of over 1,000 applicants to

receive the national grant from the Capital Readiness Program, which provides funding to organizations with expertise to support underserved entrepreneurs.

Mountain BizWorks will give more details about the four-year plan for the funds at a year-end celebration event 5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 30, at The Mule at Devil’s Foot Beverage Co. More information is at avl.mx/d4x.

Community Foundation changes focus areas The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina announced several adjustments to its focus areas for grant funding. Since 2011, its four priorities for spending discretionary funds have been human services, early childhood development, food and farming, and natural and cultural resources. “While these areas remain critical for a thriving Western North Carolina, much has changed in the funding landscape since we identified our original priorities for grants,” said

President Elizabeth Brazas in a press release. “Other funders, including Dogwood Health Trust and WNC Bridge Foundation, direct grant dollars toward issues that overlap with ours.”

The foundation will separate natural and cultural resources into two priorities, absorb food and farming priority into human services and restructure early childhood development to include other educational programs, such as scholarships, the Learning Links teacher minigrant program and other discretionary funding. More information is at avl.mx/d4w.

New home for a veteran A local veteran will be getting a new home this Veterans Day. On Saturday, Nov. 11, Mars Hill-based nonprofit QB1 Enterprises will announce the recipient of a home the organization has built. The nonprofit works to build affordable homes for marginalized communities, focusing on helping first-time homebuyers and individuals with low income or credit scores.

“We’re trying to grow relationships in the community to give us the opportunity to give a veteran a home annually,” says Brandon Quinn, founder. “But also, we really want to find a way to deliver on providing more affordable housing for people in the area.”

Quinn says the idea of gifting a home to a veteran came from his son, Brandon Quinn Jr., a junior at Mountain Heritage High School in Burnsville. Quinn Jr.’s position as quarterback for the school’s football team also influenced the name of the nonprofit, which additionally offers developmental programs for individuals through scholarship and training.

“The quarterback is the leader of a team,” Quinn Sr. says. “We want to help create leaders.”

The recipient of the home was chosen from a pool of nominations submitted by community members via the nonprofit’s website. An awards ceremony will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Asheville at a future date to be announced. More information, is at avl.mx/d4v.

MOUNTAINX.COM

— Chase Davis X

with additional reporting from Andy Hall

NOV. 8-14, 2023

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BUNCOMBE BEAT

BCS board delays updating policies related to Parents’ Bill of Rights At its Nov. 2 meeting, the Buncombe County Board of Education pushed back approval of policy changes required by a new state law until its December meeting, as some parents and student advocates argued the bill would create a hostile learning environment for LGBTQ+ students.

During public comment, representatives from the Asheville-based Campaign for Southern Equality expressed their concerns over Senate Bill 49, stating their belief that the bill contradicts Title IX, a federal law that prohibits discrimination in schools on the basis of gender.

“We don’t see any reason why it serves Buncombe County to rush our schools into the culture wars at this time,” said Craig White, supportive schools director for CSE. “We are asking you to slow things down.”

In October, CSE sent a memo to the N.C. Department of Public Instruction arguing that the bill contradicts Title IX. The NCDPI kicked the matter to the Office of Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education. CSE plans to issue a federal civil rights complaint, White said.

“We are very much listening to your voices right now as we work through these policies related to state law,” said board member Rob Elliot.

To that end, the board has set up an email account to receive comments from the public on SB 49.

To make your voice heard, email communications@bcsemail.org.

Supporters of SB 49, also known as the Parents’ Bill of Rights, say it safeguards parents’ roles in their children’s education. Opponents argue that it creates an unsafe atmosphere

Board begins redistricting process

FIRST YEAR: Buncombe County Schools Superintendent Rob Jackson, second from left, poses with his wife, Rene, far left, and his cabinet as he accepts an award commemorating his one-year anniversary as head of the school district.

Photo by Greg Parlier for some students — especially those who identify as LGBTQ+ — because it bans material related to gender expression, identity and sexuality.

Amber King, a social worker with CSE, said there are many ways in which the bill creates a hostile learning environment for some students.

“When there’s government surveillance and reporting of every book that a student checks out of the library, that’s a hostile environment,” she said. “When every adult in the room is required to police every student to make sure they’re using the name and pronouns on their birth certificate, that’s a hostile environment. When only stories about straight and cisgender families can be read in a kindergarten class and

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include any acts of bias motivated by gender identity or sexual orientation.”

Shatley told Xpress after the meeting that he thought there was room for both SB 49 and Title IX to exist, and they are working out how to follow both while taking policy guidance from the N.C. School Boards Association.

“This law is complicated,” Elliot said during the meeting. “It does create some friction that we’re trying to navigate. As all school districts are in that policy work, we’re going to continue our primary focus of maintaining a safe, healthy learning environment that respects the dignity of each and every child.”

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the child with two moms or two dads learns that books about their families have been banned, that’s a hostile environment. When teachers all the way through high school are already stripping any mention of LGBTQ people or issues from the curriculum because they’re scared of being targeted by hate groups, that is a hostile environment.”

In Buncombe, seven policies that have been created or updated will be considered for passage at the board’s December meeting, said Dean Shatley, school board attorney. Those are: parental inspection of and objection to instructional materials; criminal behavior; surveys of students; student health services; staff responsibilities; parental involvement; and comprehensive health education program.

White said the district has more work to do to address issues he raised about the proposed policies.

“With all due respect, I do not believe you have finished your homework,” he said. “You have not addressed the Title IX concerns about a hostile educational environment that we shared with the policy committee over a month ago.

You have not addressed the issue that your proposed policies require educators, counselors, teachers, social workers, nurses and librarians to violate their professional codes of ethics. You have not considered the ways in which your proposed policies will violate existing state laws, such as the statute which requires schools to be free from bullying and harassment, defined by law to

In a special called work session Nov. 2, the board received guidance from hired consultants on complying with a state mandate requiring the district to redraw its electoral lines.

House Bill 142 requires the board to redraw its six districts based on an evenly distributed population rather than on the district’s high school attendance zones, as has been done since 1975.

Currently, Buncombe elects one school board member to represent each of the county’s six attendance zones — Enka, Erwin, Owen, North Buncombe, Reynolds and Roberson — and one at-large member.

Candidates must live in the district they represent and run on a nonpartisan basis. Meanwhile, residents can vote for all school board representatives, regardless of their address.

Based on the new law, voters who live in the newly drawn districts will vote only for the representative running in the district in which they live. The law doesn’t change where students will go to school, only school board representation.

Board members discussed what priorities they would like to see in newly drawn districts. Ultimately, they agreed that staying as close as possible to the current attendance zones should be a top priority. They also prioritized keeping current board members in separate districts so they wouldn’t have to run against each other, keeping communities of interest such as historic neighborhoods together and maintaining a general “pie wedge” shape to districts so each will include a piece of the county’s more urban center.

Adam Mitchell of Tharrington Smith LLC and Blake Esselstyn of Magfigure Consulting will bring three potential maps back to the board to consider at a December meeting.

— Greg Parlier X

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR NOV. 8 - NOV. 16, 2023 For a full list of community calendar guidelines, please visit mountainx.com/calendar. For questions about free listings, call 828-251-1333, opt. 4. For questions about paid calendar listings, please call 828-251-1333, opt. 1.

 Online-only events  More info, page 30  More info, page 32-33 WELLNESS ABCs & 123s For people looking to start a fitness journey with morning walks, stretching, and calisthenic workouts.

WE (11/8), 10am, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St 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 (11/8, 15), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave 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 (11/8), 11:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland 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 (11/8, 15), 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 (11/8, 15), 1pm, 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 (11/8, 15), noon, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Nia Dance Fitness A sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts.

TH (11/9, 16), 9:30am, TU (11/14), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

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Tai Chi for Beginners A class for anyone interested in Tai Chi and building balance, whole body awareness and other health benefits.

TH (11/9, 16), MO (11/13), 11:30am, 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 (11/10), TU (11/14), 9am, SA (11/11), 11am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Morning Meditation Everyone is most welcome to join the sit; however no meditation instructions are provided.

FR (11/10), TU (11/14), 7:30am, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Yoga for Everyone A free-in person yoga class for all ages and abilities. Bring your own mat, water bottle and mask.

SA (11/11), 9:30am, Black Mountain Presbyterian, 117 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Therapeutic Slow Flow Yoga A blend of meditation, breathing and movement.

All bodies, genders, and identities welcome. Bring your own mat.

SA (11/11), 10am, Mount Inspiration Apparel, 444 Haywood Rd, Ste 103 Wild Souls Authentic Movement Class w/ Renee Trudeau Enjoy release, movement and connection with like-minded women.

SU (11/12), 9:30am, Dunn's Rock Community Center, 461 Connestee Rd, Brevard Fall Flow w/Jamie Knox Level 1+ heat increasing flow with restorative bonds designed to warm the body, calm anxiety, and release excess heat built over the summer.

SU (11/12), 10:30am, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd Walking Meditation Reduce stress, anxiety and increase health and wellbeing. Meditation instructions provided.

SU (11/12), 11am, Walk Jones Wildlife Sanctuary, Montreat

NOV. 8-14, 2023

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 (11/12), 1:30pm, W Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd Barre Fusion A high energy low impact practice that shapes, sculpts, and tones the body like a dancer. No experience necessary, open to all levels.

MO (11/13), 9:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Metta Meditation Free in-person guided meditation focused on benevolence and loving-kindness. Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome.

MO (11/13), 7pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Zumba Free zumba class; Registration not needed.

TU (11/14), 6:30pm, St. James Episcopal Church, 424 W State St, Black Mountain Asheville Women's Breathwork Circle A transformative and empowering women's circle where the power of our breath meets the strength and healing of sisterhood. No prior experience is necessary.

Pre-registration is required.

WE (11/15), 6pm, WellSpring Wellness Center, 960 Tunnel Rd

ART Daily Craft Demonstrations Two artists of different media will explain and demonstrate their craft with informative materials displayed at their booths, daily. These free and educational opportunities are open to the public. Open daily, 10am.

Folk Art Center, MP 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 open Tuesday through Friday, 10am.

Exhibition through Dec. 8.

WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee Romare Bearden: Ways of Working This exhibition highlights works on paper and explores many of Romare Bearden's most frequently used mediums including screen-printing, lithography, hand colored etching, collagraph, monotype, relief print, photomontage, and col-

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Sonic Soul Journey w/Jahidi & Cacao Ceremony A special evening of sound healing, breath, movement and sSacred plant medicine.

FR (11/10), 7pm, AyurPrana Listening Room, 312 Haywood Rd

THE PLASTICS ARE BACK: The iconic Plastics reclaim the spotlight in an all-new production of Mean Girls Jr., running Nov. 10-19 at Hart Theatre, with hours varying by date. This family-friendly musical reimagines the drama, humor and teenage struggles of North Shore High, while still including the favorite characters and moments from the original movie. Photo courtesy of Hart Theatre lage. Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday.

Exhibition through Jan. 22, 2024.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Weaving at Black Mountain College: Anni Albers, Trude Guermonprez & Their Students The first exhibition devoted to textile practices at Black Mountain College.

Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 11am.

Exhibition through Jan. 6, 2024.

Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St In the Flow: The Art of Safi Martin Martin involves pouring acrylic paints directly on the canvas, which conveys a celebration of flow, both in art and in life. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 11am and Sunday, 1 pm.

Exhibition through Jan. 7.

Flood Gallery Fine Art Center, 850 Blue Ridge Rd, Black Mountain 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 Toe River Arts Studio Tour This exhibition gives visitors an opportunity to have a glimpse into each artist's studio. The tour features 85 artists and 7 galleries, which provides the intrepid seeker of art experiences a reason for an adventure.

FR (11/10), SA (11/11), SU (11/12), 10am, Toe River Arts Council, 269 Oak Ave, Spruce Pine Wedge Studios Group Show: Opening Reception This group show will

showcase the diverse styles and media of 18 talented artists of the Wedge Studios. All works will be 14x14.

FR (11/10), 5pm, The Wedge Studios, 129 Roberts St

as professional artists.

Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am.

Exhibition through Dec. 8.

WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

RAD Studio Stroll The Free ArtsAVL Connect trolley will be running on both Saturday and Sunday, taking visitors to all parts of the River Arts District where they’ll find artists working in their studios, demonstrating their processes, and the occasional sips and snacks.

SA (11/11), SU (11/12), 10am, River Arts District Artists, Asheville

Public Tour: Intersections in American Art A docent led tour of the Museum's Collection and special exhibitions. No reservations are required.

TH (11/16), 6pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Vessels of Merriment: Opening Reception This invitational exhibition will feature handcrafted drinking vessels by 15 studio potters from around the country. Viewers will have the opportunity to browse ceramic mugs, goblets, whiskey cups, wine cups, tumblers and more.

SA (11/11), 2pm, Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd Janice Geller: InHer Visions This exhibition revolves around the processes Janice Geller uses to create her paintings after exploring vivid dreams, inner meditations, authentic movement, active imagination, inner body states or the sumptuous allure of nature. Gallery open Monday through Saturday, 10am, and Sunday, noon. Exhibition through Dec. 3.

Pink Dog Gallery, 348 Depot St Bachelor of Fine Art Portfolio Exhibition Experience work by graduating Bachelor of Fine Arts students. This exhibition highlights their comprehensive course of study at WCU’s School of Art and Design and serves as a preface to their forthcoming careers

COMMUNITY MUSIC Concert: Simone Dinnerstein Simone Dinnerstein makes her western North Carolina debut performing pieces by François Couperin, Robert Schumann, and Philip Glass.

WE (11/8), 7pm, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St Classic Silent Cinema Experience the artistic talents of multi-instrumentalist, singer, and composer Min Xiao-Fen. This unique performance is a celebration of cultural traditions of early Chinese cinema.

TH (11/9), 7:30pm, Brevard Music Center, 349 Andante Ln, Brevard BMCA Instructors Concert For one night only, the incredible talents of the Music Teaching Artists at BMCA will be sharing the stage for an evening of incredible, lively, local music in the intimate theatre.

FR (11/10), 7pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain Mary Lattimore, Manas & E.M.M. Lattimore is an American classically trained harpist based in Los Angeles.

Manas and E.M.M. will be joining the stage as well.

FR (11/10), 7pm, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave

Womansong: Healing Hearts A soulful gathering with a performance to uplift, inspire, unite and heal.

From choral anthems to contemporary pop tunes, there’s something for everyone. See p33 FR (11/10), 7pm, SA (11/11), 3pm, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville, 1 Edwin Place AmiciMusic Presents: Trios of Youth This program highlights powerful early piano trios by two of the greatest composers—Ludwig van Beethoven and Johannes Brahms.

SA (11/11), 2pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain The Ada Khoury Duo w/ Diane Matheson Performing her original songs accompanied by Diane Matheson on bass guitar. She plays a large repertoire of original songs ranging from country, rock, blues, folk and jazz.

SA (11/11), 7pm, The Grateful Organic Diner, 38 Baileys Branch Rd, Marshall Trey Mclaughlin & The Sounds of Zamar With rich harmonies, powerful vocals and an electrifying stage presence, this contemporary gospel group creates an unforgettable and uplifting musical experience.

SA (11/11), 7pm, Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave Sal Landers: Party Rx Sal brings her inimitable brand of groovy, Laurel Canyon-esque rock’n roll to the stage with an infectious energy and passion that swaggers and captivates.

SA (11/11), 7:30pm, Asheville Guitar Bar, 122 Riverside Dr Deep River Asheville’s premier country vocal group, will be performing a show featuring country hits by Michael Martin Murphey, Lee Roy Parnell, The Chicks and Shania Twain, some of the Eagles’ biggest hits, and even Fleetwood Mac. SA (11/11), 8pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Danzón: 4 Seasons Chamber Orchestra Fall Concert An exquisite program featuring influences of Spanish and Latin American cultures. This dance inspired concert is titled Danzón, and features works by Arriaga, Márquez, and Piazzolla.

SU (11/12), 3pm, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hendersonville, 2021 Kanuga Rd, Hendersonville Mark's House Jam & Beggar's Banquet Weekly Sunday pot luck and musician's jam with acoustic and plug in players. It's a family friendly community day so bring a dish to share.

SU (11/12), 3pm, Asheville Guitar Bar, 122 Riverside Dr Pan Harmonia: Canciones y Danzas With Kate Steinbeck on flute, Katherine Haig on cello and Andy Jurik on guitar.

SU (11/12), 3pm, First Presbyterian Church Asheville, 40 Church St Voices of Peace Featuring psalm settings new and old, songs of prayer and praise, and an organ piece composed

by Elsa Barraine, a French Jew who fought with the Resistance. Free and open to the public; we will be accepting donations for Jewish Federations of North America and Lutheran Services Carolinas. See p33 SU (11/12), 4pm, St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 10 North Liberty St Graham Nash: Sixty Years of Songs & Stories A performance by legendary artist Graham Nash, a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee.

SU (11/12), 7:30pm, Diana Wortham Theatre, 18 Biltmore Ave The Ashevile Jazz Orchestra A special evening featuring a 17-piece Asheville Jazz Orchestra playing a variety of big band, swing, and jazz favorites.

SU (11/12), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Guitar League Meeting Come with your guitar and meet new friends to learn, play, share with. All levels are welcome.

MO (11/13), 6pm, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Rd Music Movie Mondays The Stones & Brian Jones Showcasing the best in new, classic and cult films about music, these special screenings feature an introduction by music journalist Bill Kopp, followed by a screening of the film and then a moderated discussion about what we’ve just seen and heard.

MO (11/13), 7pm, Grail MovieHouse, 17 Foundy St Reuter Center Singers Seasoned seniors that study and perform classical, popular, show tunes and other favorites.

Membership fees apply.

MO (11/13), 6:15pm, UNC Asheville Reuter Center, 1 University Heights

Carolina Celtic Series: Robin Bullock & Steve Baughman A monthly concert series which showcases Irish and Scottish musical traditions and often explores their commonality with the Appalachian ballads and stories of the Carolina mountains.

MO (11/13), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Fiddling on the Hill A monthly traditional jam session. These sessions are led by accomplished musicians in a welcoming space for all. You are welcome to come to play or just to listen.

TU (11/14), 5pm, Mars Hill University, College St, Mars Hill Open Folk A songwriters showcase where the audience is required to stay silent while six songwriters play three original songs each. Donations are suggested and accepted.

TU (11/14), 7pm, Funkatorium, 147 Coxe Ave Asheville FM Live Music Sessions A night of live music every third Wednesday of the month.

WE (11/15), 9pm, The Getaway River Bar, 790 Riverside Dr

LITERARY Joke Writing Workshop Hosted by Disclaimer Stand Up Lounge and moderated by Cody Hughes, weekly. Bring 90 seconds of material that isn't working.

WE (11/8, 15), 6:30pm, Asheville Music Hall, 31 Patton Ave Wilma Dykeman Book Discussions: Mary Othella Burnette Retired secondary English teacher, features her memoir Lige of the Black Walnut Tree: Growing Up Black in Southern Appalachia.

TH (11/9), 7pm, W Asheville Public Library, 942 Haywood Rd Poetry Open Mic Hendo A poetry-centered open mic that welcomes all kinds of performers every Thursday night.

18+ TH (11/9, 16), 7:30pm, Shakedown Lounge, 706 Seventh Ave E, Hendersonville The Campfireball A storytelling show about the audience, The Campfireball is created spontaneously out of whatever stories and lives happen to be gathered together at that moment in time.

TH (11/9), 7:30pm, Story Parlor, 227 Haywood Rd Julie Thomson Presents: Weaving at Black Mountain College Naturalist and scholar Julie Thomson will present Weaving at Black Mountain College: Anni Albers, Trude Guermonprez, and Their

Students.

SA (11/11), 3pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St, Sylva Write Local, Read Local Author & Illustrator Fair This event will showcase local writers across all genres and will feature readings from select writers who have published their work within the past year. This event is a great opportunity to meet writers in our area, and browse books for the upcoming holiday season. See p33 SA (11/11), 9am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain Backpackers' Guide to the Globe: Book Release This visually intrepid guidebook combines practical advice, personal narratives, and awe-inspiring bucket-lists tailored for adventurous women, particularly solo female backpackers.

WE (11/15), 5:30pm, Modern Muse Gallery, 191 Lyman St, Ste 110 Wilma Dykeman Book Discussions Book discussion of Lige of the Black Walnut Tree: Growing Up Black in Southern Appalachia.

WE (11/15), 7pm, W Asheville Public Library, 942 Haywood Rd Asheville Storyslam: Give & Take Prepare a five minute story about the push and pull, an eye for an eye, a quid pro quo. The art of compromise-or lack thereof. Finding balance or disrupting the system.

TH (11/16), 7:30pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

THEATER & FILM Dot Dot Dot: A New Musical The musical follows Marisol’s journey to help her new friends, and her entire community, break free from self-criticism and learn to let their imaginations soar. Recommended for grades 1-4.

WE (11/8), TH (11/9), 10am and noon, Wortham Center For The Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave Murder on the Orient Express Asheville High School Theatre presents Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express adapted

by Ken Ledwig.

TH (11/9), FR (11/10), SA (11/11), 2pm, Asheville High Arts Theater, 419 McDowell St Paying For It: A Staged Reading Interweaving stories of four women navigating the world of online sex and feeling the effects of it in their lives and relationships.

FR (11/10), 7:30pm, The Magnetic Theatre, 375 Depot St Toybox's Monthly Puppetry Series This new series will feature original works by

acclaimed award-winning puppeteer and clown Toybox, and will bring some of the best puppeteers in the nation as special guests.

SA (11/11), 11am, The Magnetic Theatre, 375 Depot St New Works Series This series offers exciting script-in-hand readings of new plays by emerging local playwrights. The readings are followed by a talk back with the playwright and actor.

SA (11/11), 3pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S Washington St, Hendersonville Mean Girls Jr. A high-energy, family-friendly musical that reimagines the drama, humor, and teenage struggles of North Shore High School in a fresh and exciting way while still including all your favorite characters and moments from the original movie.

FR (11/10), SA (11/11), 7:30pm, SU (11/12), 2 pm, Hart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville Free Movie Night: Blood Rage Concodered one of the "real" Slashers of the 80s. This hidden gem is perfect for fans of Friday the 13th and Pieces.

WE (11/15), 8pm, The Odd, 1045 Haywood Rd

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS The French Broad River Partnership 5th Annual Meeting The French Broad River Partnership is a collaboration of business, nonprofit, and government stakeholders all interested in the water quality and economic impact of the watershed in our region.

WE (11/8), 9am, AB Tech, Ferguson Auditorium, 340 Victoria Rd Education & Workforce Symposium The A3 Event will focus on our region’s innovative practices for educational attainment, and is

planned by six local organizations alongside two statewide organizations.

WE (11/8), 10am, Highsmith Student Union, 1 University Heights Free E-Bike Rental A free one hour bike adventure to experience Asheville’s historic River Arts District, French Broad River Greenway, local breweries, restaurants and more.

WE (11/8, 15), 10am, Ace Bikes, 342 Depot St 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 (11/8, 15), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave Peace Education Program An innovative series of video-based workshops that help people discover their own inner strength and personal peace.

WE (11/8), 5pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave 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 (11/8, 15), 3pm, Black Mountain, Honeycutt St, Black Mountain May History Show Us The Way: Roots of Cherokee Language Endangerment & Paths for Reclamation The annual 2023 James A. Cooper Memorial Lecture in Cherokee Studies welcomes Dr Benjamin E. Frey (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) for May History Show Us The Way: Roots of Cherokee Language Endangerment and Paths for Reclamation.

WE (11/8), 5:30pm, Western Carolina University, 1 University Way, Cullowhee 2nd MWBE Vendor Outreach An invitation to all Prime contractors and Minority

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COM M U N I TY CA LEN DA R and Women-owned businesses vendors to attend this outreach event and take advantage of this unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse construction landscape in Asheville.

WE (11/8), 6pm, River Cane, 8 River Arts Pl, Oasis Study on Dietrich Bonhoeffe Two-week introduction to the life and work of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. He was a German Lutheran Theologian who stood against Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany.

WE (11/8, 15), 6pm, Grace Lutheran Church, 1245 6th Ave W, Hendersonville Community Choice Enjoy family activities including puzzles, board games, arts and crafts, and more. Kids ages 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

WE (11/8, 15), 6:30pm, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St 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 (11/9, 16), MO (11/13), TU (11/14), 4pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

SRI KALKI SOMA DEEKSHA EVENT

Golden Age Movement MIRACLE BLESSED WATER

Asheville, North Carolina “So blessed to be here.

“Transformative a feeling that there is hope beyond suffering and a way to actively enjoy the life I want.”

Register

I felt my heart like a ball of fire.

I felt it radiating with power and joy.”

Saturday, November 11, 2023 11am-1pm EDT Unity Bay of the Blue Ridge 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Rd Mills River, NC 28759

Contact: SomaDebraApsara@gmail.com 20

NOV. 8-14, 2023

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WNC Food Waste Solutions Summit This year’s Summit will bring together local businesses, organizations, educational institutions, community leaders, and interested individuals to expand conversations and deepen collaborations that have emerged since the 2017 Summit.

TH (11/9), 8:30am, A-B Tech Conference Center, 340 Victoria Rd Dye Series: The Magic of Indigo Learn how to set up an organic indigo vat using a few simple ingredients.

TH (11/9), 10am, Buncombe County Cooperative Ext Center, 49 Mount Carmel Rd, Ste 102 MBBC Networking Event w/Focus on Leadership A monthly networking meeting with a special guest speaker. The meeting will focus on why leadership is key and there will be food, conversation and networking.

TH (11/9), 11:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Bowling for Adults 50 & Over A friendly game of bowling for adults 50 and over. Transportation provided from Grove St Community Center.

TH (11/9), 1pm, Sky Lanes, 1477 Patton Ave May History Show Us The Way: Roots of Cherokee Language Endangerment & Paths for Reclamation

The annual 2023 James A. Cooper Memorial Lecture in Cherokee Studies welcomes Dr Benjamin E. Frey (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) for May History Show Us The Way: Roots of Cherokee Language Endangerment and Paths for Reclamation.

TH (11/9), 5:30pm, Museum of the Cherokee People, 589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee The Marshall Trilogy to Standing Rock: A Legal History of Native American Dispossession Dr. George D. Pappas examines literary pathways that transformed fiction into U.S. law in order to dispossess Native Americans of their ancient homelands.

TH (11/9), 6pm, Black Mountain Public Library, 105 N Dougherty St, Black Mountain Therapeutic Recreation Adult Supper Club Prepare and enjoy meals with new and old friends.

Open to individual with disabilities ages 18 and over.

TH (11/9), 6pm, Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd Dharma & Discuss: John Orr Teaching A meditation with instructions for beginners and experienced practitioners.

This will be followed by a dharma talk and an opportunity to ask John questions afterwards.

TH (11/9), 7pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Swing Dance Lesson & Dance Swing dancing lesson and dance, every Thursday.

TH (11/9, 16), 7pm, Alley Cat Social Club, 797 Haywood Rd Nerd Nite An international phenomenon recently brought to Asheville. The be-all-end-all for locals who like to drink and learn things.

TH (11/9), 7:30pm, The River Arts District Brewing Company, 13 Mystery St Change Your Palate Cooking Demo This free food demonstration is open to everyone 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.

FR (11/10), WE (11/15), 5:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Generating Empowerment through Mindful Solution A community-based, public health initiative in Buncombe County that provides direct services, promotes health education, and advocates for policy changes to address the root causes of violence.

FR (11/10), 6pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Kids Night In Let your kids work off extra energy with themed games, crafts and special activities. Light dinner included with advance registration at avlrec.com.

FR (11/10), 6pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Teen Cuisine Learn how to make delicious and easy meals from breakfast to desserts. Advance registration at avlrec.com is required.

FR (11/10), 6pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave Teen Gaming Night A night of gaming for teens with Madden, 2k and more. Advance registration at avlrec.com required FR (11/10), 6:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave Relief Printing: Holiday Cards Participants will use a traditional printmaking process to make cards from seasonal imagery.

Creating truly one-of-akind pieces for gifts or for your own enjoyment.

SA (11/11), 10am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain An Astrology & Yoga Workshop: Balance Your Moon Energy This workshop will use the wisdom of astrology and yoga to balance moon energy and bring emotional wellbeing and a grounded feeling of nourishment, comfort, safety, and support, into your life.

SA (11/11), 2pm, Black Mountain Yoga, 116 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Introduction to Knitting Participants will learn the basic skills of knitting, which include how to cast on, knit, purl, bind off, increase, decrease and knit in the round. Projects will include a headband or fingerless mitts, an infinity scarf, and a beanie style hat.

SA (11/11), 2pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Black Mountain Museum staff will lead attendees through historic State Street, Cherry Street and Black Mountain Ave, relaying the history of several buildings and discussing topics including the building of the Swannanoa Tunnel and the disastrous downtown fire of 1912.

SA (11/11), 2pm, Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, 223 W State St, Black Mountain How Biotechnologies are Changing the Future of Conservation Ben Novak, the Lead Scientist with Revive and Restore and Biotechnolo-

gy for Bird Conservation Program Manager will lead this discussion.

All proceeds for this incredible event go to Wild for Life: Center for Rehabilitation of Wildlife.

SA (11/11), 7pm, UNC Asheville Reuter Center, 1 University Heights Line Dancing Lessons Free line dancing lessons wuth Jerri and the Asheville Country Western Dancers.

SU (11/12), 4pm, Shakey's, 38 N French Broad Ave Stop the Bleed Training This life-saving training is free and open to the community. Please register at avl.mx/d58.

MO (11/13), 11am, Mission Hospital, 1 Hospital Dr Nonprofit Leadership Forum: Create Magnetic Workplaces & Sustainable Spaces Cultivate a desirable work culture that attracts and retains top talent. Learn how to optimize nonprofit leaders’ capacity, utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to demystify & create accountability measures, all in a single workday.

MO (11/13), noon, Blue Ridge Community College Conference Hall, 49 E Campus Dr, Flat Rock Stitches of Love Meeting A small group of stitchers who create a variety of handmade items which are donated to local charities. New members are always welcome to join.

MO (11/13), 3pm, Panera Bread, 1843 Hendersonville Rd WNC Sierra Club MAP Series The WNC Sierra Club launches a MAP (Music, Art and Policy) Series, featuring an evening of music, art and policy focused on turning inspiration into action.

MO (11/13), 6pm, Wedge Brewery at Foundation, 5 Foundy St, Ste 10 Black Men Monday A local group that has stepped up in the community to advocate for and mentor students through academic intervention.

MO (11/13), 7pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Confederate Hospitals Wade Sokolosky will discuss North Carolina’s Confederate hospitals built during the first two years of the Civil War. These hospitals existed in Virginia and in North Carolina to serve soldiers from this state.

MO (11/13), 7pm, Waynesville Branch of Haywood County Public Library, 678 S. Haywood St, Waynesville World Tavern Poker Night A free to play poker night every Monday.

MO (11/13), 7pm, The Getaway River Bar, 790 Riverside Dr

The Friends of Agriculture: Community Breakfast This Breakfast will feature an Ag-related speaker to inform and update everyone on current events. It will be discussing Topics such as Farmlink and what it entails for the Agricultural Community.

TU (11/14), 8:30am, Claxton Farms Venue, 288 Upper Flat Creek Rd, Weaverville Toddler Discovery Time Crafts, games, and playtime for youngsters.

Advance registration at avlrec.com is required.

TU (11/14), 9:45am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Deep Dive Lab: Canva for Beginners Turn imagination into a finished design in minutes with this step-by-step tutorial for designing from scratch in Canva. Free with registration at avl.mx/d5b.

TU (11/14), 10am, Online Intro to Senior Games Sports Each week will cover a different sport. This is for people trying a new sport for the 2024 Asheville-Buncombe senior games.

TU (11/14), 10am, W Asheville Park, 11 Vermont Ave Therapeutic Recreation Adult Crafting & Cooking A variety of cooking and crafts for individuals with disabilities ages 17 and over each week.

This week will focus on cooking a no bake pumpkin pie.

TU (11/14), 10am, Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd IBN Biz Lunch: Candler A free independent Business Networking meeting that consists of a discussion of future networking opportunities in the area, a roundtable business needs and solutions segment and more. Free and open to the public.

TU (11/14), 11:30am, Elena's Mexican Grill, 101 Westridge Market Place, Candler SCORE: Sales Fundamentals Learn the many ways sales helps your business survive and grow. Begin creating your own, personalized, sales process that goes from first contact with a prospect to completed sale with a customer; and the vital steps in between.

TU (11/14), 2pm, A-B Tech Madison and NCWorks Career Center, 4646 US Hwy 25/70, Marshall CLOSER: Historical Preservation The event will begin with a small panel of speakers sharing their memories of CLOSER, and then we’ll open up the storytelling to anyone in attendance

that wants to share.

TU (11/14), 6pm, The Wedge at Foundation, 5 Foundy St Tap into ASL w/Hope Free ASL classes, games, drinks and socializing. All levels welcome.

TU (11/14), 6:30pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200 The History & Biology of Coyotes in NC Learn about the habits and ecological role of these stealthy canines with a presentation by Justin McVey, Biologist with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.

TU (11/14), 7pm, OLLI/ Reuter Center, UNCA, 300 Campus View Rd Treks Hiking Club for Adults 50 & Over A low-impact hiking club offering leisurely-paced hikes for active adults.

No hiking experience is required, but the hike covers over three miles on uneven terrain.

WE (11/15), 9:30am, Asheville Recreation Park, 65 Gashes Creek Rd Intro To Coffee Cupping In this immersive and interactive class you'll learn the fundamentals of coffee cupping, the professional practice used by coffee experts to evaluate and appreciate coffee beans.

WE (11/15), 3pm, HatchWorks, 45 S French Broad Ave Dollar Décor DIY Enjoy new crafts made from simple items you have at home or can be found at dollar stores.

Advance registration at avlrec.com required.

WE (11/15), 7pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver 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. We’ll also give you tips on other funding sources if you aren’t ready for a loan yet.

Register at avl.mx/d5a.

TH (11/16), noon, Online Personal Response to Homelessness: How to Partner with Local Agencies & Take Action An informative learning series focused on homelessness in our community. Learn more about the causes, responses, and actions that surround the homelessness issue in Asheville and the region.

TH (11/16), 6pm, North Asheville Library, 1030 Merrimon Ave Dharam & Discuss: Emily Horn Teaching A dharma talk and an opportunity to ask Emily West Horn questions afterwards. The topic for this talk will be, The Nature of Awakening.

TH (11/16), 7pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

LOCAL MARKETS 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 (11/8, 15), 3pm, Smoky Park Supper Club, 350 Riverside Dr Weaverville Tailgate Market A selection of fresh, locally grown produce, grass fed beef, pork, chicken, rabbit, eggs, cheese, sweet and savory baked goods, artisan bread, fire cider, coffee, pickles, body care, eclectic handmade goodies, and garden and landscaping plants.

Open year round.

WE (11/8, 15), 3pm, 60 Lake Shore Dr Weaverville North Asheville Tailgate Market The oldest Saturday morning market in WNC, since 1980. Over 60 rotating vendors offer fresh Appalachian grown produce, meats, cheeses and eggs - with a variety of baked goods, value added foods, and unique craft items. Weekly through Dec. 16.

SA (11/11), 8am, 3300 University Heights Asheville City Market Local food products, including fresh produce, meat, cheese, bread, pastries, and other artisan products. Weekly through Dec. 17.

SA (11/11), 9am, 52 N Market St Black Mountain Tailgate Market Featuring organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, locally raised meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs and local arts and handcrafted items.

Every Saturday through Nov. 18.

SA (11/11), 9am, 130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Fall Artist Market Enjoy an array of WNC craft vendors and artisans, a food truck, beer, music by the Jerry's Dead band and more. Bring the family and furry friends to join the fun in the open-air outdoor taproom as well.

SA (11/11), noon, Pisgah Brewing Co., 2948 US Hwy 70 W, Black Mountain Night Markets Discover handcrafted wonders, artisanal delights, and treasures at this market that celebrates community and small businesses.

SA (11/11), 5pm, The Railyard Black Mountain, 141 Richardson Ave, Black Mountain

WNC Farmers Market High quality fruits and vegetables, mountain crafts, jams, jellies, preserves, sourwood honey, and other farm fresh items. Open daily 8am, year-round.

SU (11/12), 8am, 570 Brevard Rd

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Navigating Jim Crow: The Green Book & Oasis Spaces in North Carolina A traveling exhibit about sites important to, and personal memories about, African American travel using The Negro Motorist Green Book during the Jim Crow era of legal segregation.

Eight vibrant panels showcase images of business owners, travelers, and historic and present-day photos of North Carolina Green Book sites. See p32-33 WE (11/8), TH (11/9), 9:30am, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St Veterans Job & Resource Fair Each day will feature six different employers on-site that will be meeting with veterans to hire for open positions, while community resource organizations and NCWorks Veteran support staff will be answering a variety of questions regarding health benefits, legal and financial matters and starting your own business.

WE (11/8), TH (11/9), 9am, NCWorks Career Center Asheville, 48 Grove St Venardos Circus A Broadway-style, animal-free circus with assortment of aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, hand balancers, comedic jokesters and more.

The circus has multiple dates and times, visit avl.mx/d46 for the show's full schedule.

WE (11/8, 15), TH (11/9, 16), FR (11/9), SA (11/11), SU (11/12), 7pm, Asheville Outlets, 800 Brevard Rd The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Helping heal and rekindle friendships and to allow people the opportunity to visit loved ones in their home town who otherwise may not be able to make the trip to Washington. The healing wall will be open to the public and will remain open 24 hours a day. See p33 FR (11/10), SA (11/10), SA (11/11), SU (11/12), Veterans Healing Farm, 38 Yale Rd, Hendersonville Weaverville Veterans Day Observance This day of observance will feature Lieutenant Colonel David Thorneloe of Asheville as the keynote speaker. Taps and

Rifle Salute will be done by the Weaverville Fire and Police Departments, respectively. All are welcome.

FR (11/10), 11am, Lake Louise Community Center, Weaverville, Weaverville U.S. Marines' 248th Birthday Celebration A very important day for all Marines who have served from across the world to gather, to celebrate, and toast our Corps. There is no charge for attending.

FR (11/10), 5pm, Ecusta Brewing, 49 Pisgah Hwy, Ste 3, Pisgah Forest ZeroProof Fest: Non-Alcoholic Social Experience A two day festival celebrating the N/A beverage world, while supporting awareness for the growing culture.

Sample the non-alcoholic beverage brands, food, listen to music and create connections. See p30 FR (11/10), 6pm, SA (11/11), noon, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd, Ste 10 Steel & Stone Metal Fest 7 A metal festival featuring the return from Legendary Power Metal band Twisted Tower Dire as well as Children of the Reptile, AllHell, Oblivion

Throne, Overload and Temptations Wings.

FR (11/10), 7pm, The Odd, 1045 Haywood Rd Veterans Day: A Live Ceremony A story telling of Native American duty, honor and service. Warren Dupree, an enrolled member of Eastern Band of Cherokee Indian Tribal Elder and Two-war Veteran will be a keynote speaker.

SA (11/11), 11am, Charles George VA Medical Center, 1100 Tunnel Rd Holiday Farm Fest Experience the farm transformed into a winter wonderland with unique plants, holiday music, hot beverages, goodies, and three greenhouses full of fantastic vendors ready to complete your holiday shopping list.

SA (11/11), 11:30am, Ross Farm, 91 Holbrook Rd, Candler Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week Debbie Alford, Homeless Strategy Specialist for the City of Asheville, will kick off the week with a presentation, Understanding Homelessness & Your Personal Response. Following the presentation, representatives from partner organizations will be onsite sharing

information about their programs and how to get involved. Visit avl.mx/d5q for the full schedule of events.

MO (11/13), 9am, Haywood St Congregation, 297 Haywood St

items were collected last spring. Items will be given away for free. For more information, contact Kathy Soule at ksoule@ eblencharities.org.

TH (11/9), 9am, Eblen Charities, 23 Hamilton St

National Philanthropy Day A special day to recognize and pay tribute to the great contributions that philanthropy, and those active in the philanthropic community, make to our lives, communities and world.

WE (11/15), 11:30am, Renaissance Asheville Hotel, 31 Woodfin St

River Cane Work Days Focusing on removing Kudzu from river cane stands along the Wilma Dykeman Greenway in the River Arts District. No experience needed. Please sign up at avl.mx/d26.

TH (11/9, 16), 10am, River Cane, 8 River Arts Pl

BAC's 14th Annual Handmade Holiday Market This event features high-quality, handmade gifts created by students, staff, and alums. Items for sale include artwork, candles, ceramics, wearable accessories, woodwork, and other handmade crafts.

TH (11/16), noon, WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING WLOS & Eblen Charities Coat Dr Giveaway More than 1,000 winter coats and winter weather

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 (11/11), 11am, First Presbyterian Church Asheville, 40 Church St Benefit Concert for WNCAP A night of music and community in support of those impacted by HIV in WNC. Tina and Her Pony, Lyle de Vitry and Connie Page Henshaw will be performing at this benefit.

SU (11/12), 7pm, The Odd, 1045 Haywood Rd

Community Action Opportunities HELPING PEOPLE. CHANGING LIVES.

Notice of Intent to Apply and Public Hearings Community Action Opportunities (CAO) will submit a FY 2024-25 Community Services Block Grant application for $885,495.

CAO will operate a self-sufficiency project in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Polk and Transylvania counties.

CAO will host virtual public hearings 11/14 at 10am and 5pm.

Join us at meet.goto.com/113172725.

CAO Executive Committee will meet 11/15 – 3pm to review and approve the application.

This meeting is open to public.

Join us in person at 25 Gaston Street, Asheville, or virtually at meet.goto.com/551303013.

Questions? Call Trudy Logan at 828-210-0603.

MOUNTAINX.COM

NOV. 8-14, 2023

21

HEALTH ROUNDUP

by Jessica Wakeman | jwakeman@mountainx.com

Medicaid expansion begins Dec. 1 North Carolina will expand Medicaid benefits starting Friday, Dec. 1, granting health care coverage to more residents ages 19-64. N.C. Medicaid services include primary care, prescription drug benefits, behavioral health, maternity and postpartum care, and other services. Recipients do not pay monthly premiums.

Adults may qualify if they earn up to 138% of the federal poverty limit, which is about $20,000 a year for a single person and about $34,000 for a family of three. For more information about income eligibility, visit avl.mx/d3f. North Carolina residents can apply online for N.C. Medicaid through ePASS at avl.mx/d3e, or in person, over the phone or through a mailed application.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services received final federal approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in October.

NCDHHS will continue to manage Medicaid in the state.

Mission physicians release letter Dozens of Mission Health physicians and advanced practice providers signed an open letter to Ronald Winters, CEO of Gibbins Advisors, addressing allegations in an Oct. 19 letter he received from current and former Mission providers.

“Their version does not tell the whole story, and there are many of us who do not feel that their voice represents us as a whole,” the Mission Health letter reads. Mission Health spokesperson Nancy Lindell released the letter Nov. 1, which can be read at avl.mx/d5c.

Gibbins Advisors is the independent monitor of HCA Healthcare, which was hired by Dogwood Health Trust in 2019.

HCA Healthcare, a for-profit health care system, purchased Mission Hospital for $1.5 billion that same year. Dogwood Health Trust was created as part of the sale, and Attorney General Josh Stein appointed Gibbins Advisors as the independent monitor.

At an Oct. 19 community meeting held in Asheville, Dr. Robert Kline, a former member of Mission Hospital’s board of directors, read a letter aloud addressed to Winters. It cited concerns about the quality of patient care and “countless health care staff who have left Mission and/or the medical community since the sale.” That letter can be read at avl.mx/d5d.

The Mission Health letter disputes these allegations. “In spite of the claims made in the previous letter, Mission Health’s services have continued to grow to meet the needs of our patients,” it reads, citing several new units and services. It also defends the quality of patient care Mission Health provides. “The implications of the letter that suggest we are not giving the best to patients is offensive to those physicians and advanced practice providers who are showing up every day to provide excellent care to our community,” it reads.

The Mission Health letter described the authors of the letter read by Kline as “some physicians who have previously been involved with Mission Hospital.” Fifty-nine physicians, both open signers and anonymous, added their names to the letter read by Kline as of Oct. 25.

Code Purple in effect through April 30 Asheville’s Code Purple program, which provides emergency shelter for

Blissful Chiropractic Experience a 45 minute adjustment that starts with a cranial sacral massage to relax the nerves followed by a gentle hands-on chiropractic adjustment.

Sacral Occipital, Applied Kinesiology, and traditional adjustments also available

ashevillegoodhealth.com

390A South French Broad Ave. | 828.777.1431 22

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people experiencing homelessness, runs this year through April 30.

The Asheville-Buncombe Homeless Coalition will call a Code Purple if the temperature is 32 degrees or below, including wind chill, or 33-40 degrees with precipitation. Code Purple is announced 48 hours in advance.

Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry will provide 75 beds in total between Veterans Restoration Quarters, which serves single men, and Transformation Village, which serves single women and children.

The Salvation Army will provide 16 beds for single men. Families may be offered hotel rooms if no shelter space is available. There will be fewer entry requirements at participating shelters during Code Purple.

Asheville Rides Transit will provide free rides for unhoused people to shelters at night and downtown the following morning. Mission Hospital will facilitate taxi service to Code Purple shelters for unhoused people who are discharged from the hospital.

For more information on Code Purple rules, shelter hours of operation and additional details on transportation, read the Code Purple Procedure Manual at avl.mx/d3n.

Cigna expands Medicare in WNC Cigna Healthcare is expanding Medicare Advantage to eligible customers in Avery, Madison, Mitchell and Yancey counties.

A number of plans are available, including one for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. All plans include a dental allowance for preventive services at a dentist who accepts Medicare, and hearing and vision benefits, among other benefits.

The plans are available through Thursday, Dec. 7, during Medicare’s annual enrollment period. The plans become effective Monday, Jan. 1. For more information, visit avl.mx/d3t.

Sunrise drop-in closes Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness has temporarily closed its drop-in community center from 46 Westgate Shopping Center. The nonprofit is currently seeking a new location. All other Sunrise programs are unaffected and will continue uninterrupted. For more information about Sunrise’s services, visit avl.mx/d56.

Fire marshal acquires additional drone In October, the Buncombe County Fire Marshal’s Office began using a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise drone for fire investigations, lost-person searches, wildfires and emergency management support during natural disasters.

The new drone has thermal imaging technology, zoom capability up to 400 feet in altitude, speaker communication and live-feed video transmission. Fire Marshal Kevin Tipton tells Xpress the drone was used in October to determine the origin of a fire in a private home that sustained a roof collapse.

The Buncombe County Fire Marshal’s Office has operated a Mini 3 drone, which takes videos and photos in fire investigations, since early 2023.

Tipton says it has been used on five to six fires this year.

Assistant Fire Marshal Justin Honeycutt, EMS quality control officer Will Key and assistant EMS operations supervisor Chris Dorsey have drone pilot licensure from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Nonprofits receive $10K grants The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce distributed grants to 24 nonprofits in honor of its 125th anniversary. Nonprofit applications were scored by members of the business community and a public vote. Recipients include All Souls Counseling Center, which will expand its counseling services, and Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, which will double supplemental nutrition assistance, or SNAP, program benefits.

AdventHealth breaks ground AdventHealth Hendersonville broke ground Oct. 10 on a new medical office building for physician offices, surgery and specialty services. The 60,000-square-foot building off Howard Gap Road in Hendersonville is expected to open in November 2024.

Community kudos • Henderson County Health Director Steven E. Smith announced he plans to retire after 32 years in public health service. Smith will continue to serve until May to give the Henderson County Board of Health time to find a successor.

Lunch & Learn KNOWLEDGE IS ON THE MENU

November 30th 11am-1pm Rethinking retirement has never been easier. Come enjoy a presentation about Givens Gerber Park: a more affordable rental retirement option (55+) and enjoy lunch on us. Monthly fees are all-inclusive based on income.

RSVP required.

NEW IN TOWN: Pediatrician Dr. Ivana Baumgarten, left, joined Western North Carolina Community Health Services; Carl Falconer, center, joined Homeward Bound as CEO; and Dr. Rebecca Rice, right, joined Pardee Bariatrics and General Surgery. Photos courtesy of WNCCHS, Homeward Bound and UNC Health Pardee • Western North Carolina Community Health Services welcomed pediatrician Dr. Ivana Baumgarten to the WNCCHS-Minnie Jones Health Center last month. She will provide physical exams, vaccinations and referrals to specialists. WNCCHS is a federally qualified health center, which provides health services to individuals regardless of their ability to pay. To make an appointment with Dr. Baumgarten, call 828-285-0622.

• UNC Health Pardee has appointed Marilee Arnold as chief nursing officer and Brian Leutner as vice president of clinical services.

• Homeward Bound has hired Carl Falconer as CEO. He previously served in the U.S. Army and most recently served as CEO of a nonprofit dedicated to relieving homelessness in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. • Southeastern Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, a department of UNC Health Pardee, has added four physicians: Drs. Hubert Gooch, James Hoski, Mark Moody and Marshall Ney. All four physicians are accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, call 828-274-4555.

• Pardee Bariatrics and General Surgery has welcomed bariatric surgeon Dr. Rebecca Rice. Rice is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, call 828-694-8463.

• Seán Johnson has joined Asheville Yoga Center as director. Johnson is the founder of Wild Lotus Yoga in New Orleans.

Save the date • Hello, Gorgeous! Professional Bra Fitting & More, 61 N. Merrimon Ave., Suite 107, will hold a free Menopause Cafe event 6-8 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 13. Menopause Cafe is a global nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about changes that occur during menopause. For more information, visit avl.mx/d3u.

• Hillman Beer, 25 Sweeten Creek Road, will donate $1 from every beer, cider or seltzer draft to Outward Bound School Veterans Division on Monday, Nov. 13, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Courses with Outward Bound School Veterans Division offer free tuition and travel for all active-duty service members and veterans who were deployed in a combat area.

• AARP N.C. Mountain Region will host a screening of the documentary The Last Ecstatic Days on Friday, Nov. 17, 2-5 p.m., at Pack Memorial Library, Lord Auditorium, 67 Haywood St. The screening is part of its free film series “Dancing with Death — The Last Great Adventure.” The Last Ecstatic Days is a documentary about Ethan Sisser, a 36-year-old man who had terminal brain cancer, and Dr. Aditi Sethi, who helped Sisser die in a homelike setting surrounded by loved ones. Following the film, the audience is invited to stay for an in-depth discussion monitored by Emmy Award winner Gail Harris.

For information about other films in the series, visit avl.mx/d3v.

• The Weaverville Center for Creative and Healthy Living, 60 Lakeshore Drive, will offer a free workshop 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19, on navigating grief through the holidays. Wendy Lantis will guide the workshop, which touches on mindfulness practice. To reserve a spot, contact Lantis at bloomingself@gmail.com.

• Asheville Brewers Alliance, Mercy Urgent Care, Highland Brewing Co. and Devil’s Foot Beverage will hold an information session about alcohol use 5:30-6:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 20, at Highland Brewing Co., 26 Old Charlotte Highway. The session will address how to identify signs of excessive drinking, strategies for moderate consumption and resources for support. The class is free for ABA members and $10 for the general public. X MOUNTAINX.COM

NOV. 8-14, 2023

23

ARTS & CULTURE

Projecting the future

Asheville Pizza up for sale after 25-year run

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN earnaudin@mountainx.com Like a reel of disintegrating nitrate film, only vestiges still remain of the Asheville that Mike Rangel, co-owner of Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co., encountered 25 years ago.

In 1997, the restaurateur and his then-wife, Leigh Oder, were running the company’s precursor, the Asheville Pizza Co. shop, situated on the northern end of Merrimon Avenue near the Fresh Market. That year, they were hired as consultants by the owners of the Two Moons Brew-N-View, who operated out of the site where today’s Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co. is located. Formerly the Merrimon Twin Theaters, Two Moons Brew-N-View had rebranded as a brewpub the year before but was struggling financially despite a gradually growing fan base for its house-made beers.

As the business’s brewer, Doug Riley, showed Rangel and Oder around, they crossed paths with some local color at the building’s entrance.

“There was a group of people on the patio, and they had a baby goat, and they were all dancing. And the baby goat was dancing,” Rangel recalls.

Rangel, who’d long wanted to own a movie theater, says he “just kind of fell in love with it.” And when the Two Moons owners proposed selling the place, he and Oder pounced and made them an offer.

On Jan. 1, 1998, following significant renovations, Rangel, Oder and Riley reopened the business as Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co. A quarter of a century later, the theater continues to program big-screen entertainment — work that the ownership team is ready to pass on to someone new.

WHAT COMES NEXT: “My hope would be that someone would come in and would want to keep it as Asheville Pizza because of the tremendous amount of sales and customer loyalty and reputation,” says co-owner, Mike Rangel, second from the left. Also featured, starting left, co-owners Leigh Oder, Lisa Leokum, Cory Gates and Allison Brown-Rangel.

Photo by Edwin Arnaudin SALES PITCH In an Oct. 19 video posted on the business’s social media accounts, Rangel, his wife Allison BrownRangel, Oder and co-owners Lisa Leokum, Cory Gates and Pete Langheinrich announced that they were selling the Merrimon Avenue portion of their business. The group also owns Asheville Brewing Co. and Asheville T-Shirt Co., and are part owners of the outdoor concert venue

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Rabbit Rabbit (with The Orange Peel) as well as Ninja Spirits distillery and its ready-to-drink bottled/canned arm, The Buckminster Cocktail Co. (with Little Jumbo co-owner Chall Gray).

“We’re obviously not going anywhere. We have other businesses that are going to keep us hopping,” Rangel says. “But I’m realizing that it’s getting more and more difficult to keep your hands on the wheel of a few different businesses. And Merrimon and our staff and our customers deserve the full attention.”

Up for sale are the Asheville Pizza Co. and Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co. names; the restaurant’s food recipes; and all the kitchen and movie theater equipment. The land and building are not part of the deal, but Rangel says the current lease runs through 2029 and their “friendly landlord” is committed to working with the new owners.

“Our first thing is trying to do everything we can to have some sort of an easy, logical transition of keeping the staff that we’ve got, as much as possible, and then also keeping the cinema going,” Rangel says. “My hope would be that someone would come in and would want to keep it as Asheville Pizza because of the tremendous

amount of sales and customer loyalty and reputation. But that will ultimately be up to the owner.”

Those liberties extend to what’s programmed for the first-run and $3 second-run/repertory screens, as well as what’s on tap. While Rangel says he’d love the new owners to carry exclusively Asheville Brewing beers, they can serve whatever they’d like.

As for finding a buyer, Rangel and the ownership team are in no rush.

After seeing the new owners of fellow local businesses such as Moog Music and Catawba Brewing Co. lay off large numbers of employees and drastically alter operations, the Asheville Pizza group is determined to take whatever time is necessary to vet prospective buyers.

Since the Oct. 19 announcement, Rangel has received numerous emails from interested parties — many of them local. Though the sale would be a turnkey situation, he says the current owners are willing to serve as consultants or otherwise help with the transition.

Once the sale is complete, Rangel and his colleagues plan to run their remaining operations out of the Coxe Avenue location. He says that move

would mark the first time in 20 years that the owners have worked together under the same roof. The change will also result in a shift in food offerings at the South Slope restaurant.

“I have some menu ideas for some different stuff that I’ve wanted to do for a long time that we really haven’t been able to do,” Rangel says.

QUARTER-CENTURY KIDS Where Asheville Pizza & Brewing started and where it has ended up are significantly different from what Rangel and Oder had planned. They originally envisioned the movie theater with an upscale cocktail lounge, but less than two months after buying Two Moons, they learned Oder was pregnant and decided to make it a family-friendly establishment.

As Asheville has become a more desirable tourist destination and place to call home, its reputation as Beer City has been a boon for the Asheville Brewing side of the business. But Rangel says the funky, idiosyncratic nature of the Merrimon location has consistently been popular with locals and visitors seeking the town’s more offbeat side. And as the city has grown, Asheville Pizza has remained one of the few entertainment-centric businesses that cater to all ages.

“Asheville kind of pushed us in the direction that our business needed to be in,” Rangel says. “We just had to learn how to listen.”

Aiding that welcoming vibe is an aesthetic that features Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and other pop cul-

ture imagery from works that Rangel and his colleagues love. He says the intention behind the interior design is “to not, in any way, be seen as a corporation,” and they’re continually working in new details. More recently, they’ve added components such as a James Bond mural.

“We have fun and try not to take ourselves too seriously,” Rangel says.

“On busy nights when we’re slammed and all hell’s breaking loose, we remind ourselves that we’re not brain surgeons — we’re making pizza.”

That sense of joy extends to such value-added bonuses as giving attendees inflatable swords for the “Game of Thrones” series finale and red beanies for folks who bought tickets for The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. Introducing audiences to oddball films has been one of Rangel’s favorite aspects of owning the theater, and he says he’d rather have a half-full auditorium for a quirky indie film than a capacity crowd for the latest Adam Sandler movie.

“If you show it, they will come,” Rangel says. “Asheville should get its props, too, because for a town this size in the South, it has an experimental edge to it. People want to take a gamble on a movie. And the early days of Fine Arts [Theatre] and [the] Cinematique [film society] helped foster that, too.”

Other highlights for Rangel include hosting the cast of The Hunger Games for multiple parties while the production was filming in Western North Carolina; getting to meet future Oscar winner Philip Seymour Hoffman in the late ’90s when he was in the area filming Patch Adams; and surprising attendees at a Donnie Darko screening with

Asheville resident Gary Jules performing his cover of Tears for Fears’ “Mad World” from the film’s soundtrack.

BUILT TO LAST Over the past 25 years, Asheville Pizza & Brewing has also weathered significant challenges within the movie industry. In 2012, film distribution switched from celluloid to digital, forcing theaters to purchase expensive new projectors. According to Neal Reed, manager of the Fine Arts Theatre, the move killed about 35% of independent theaters in the U.S., but his and Rangel’s establishments survived.

Then in 2020, restrictions stemming from COVID-19 shuttered nonessential businesses. Once pandemic rules eased and Asheville Pizza & Brewing could welcome customers back, Rangel was faced with a new challenge. The shrinking window for second-run films in the age of streaming all but forced Rangel’s hand to convert his theater into a firstrun establishment in late 2021.

But he and the community alike quickly missed the $3 screenings celebrating anniversaries, tributes to recently deceased performers and other quirky titles that defined the business.

In 2022, Rangel transformed the build-

ing’s game room into an additional theater and brought back the venue’s former idiosyncratic programming.

The shift to first-run films has also led to robust ticket sales in 2023. Rangel wisely booked current box-office champ Barbie over the summer and screenings of the concert film Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour have consistently sold out this fall.

In addition to Asheville Pizza & Brewing withstanding the streaming boom and advancements in home theater systems, Rangel is feeling bullish about the future of the communal film experience.

“I feel like the nostalgia of movie theaters is just going to get stronger because there’s less and less opportunities to meet up with people, unless you’re really talking sports or live music.

The only other thing is really theaters,” he says. “That sense of community — watching Elf for the 800th time but watching it with 75 people who are also laughing, that feeling is irreplaceable.”

Continuing that tradition is of utmost importance to Rangel and the ownership team as they vet potential buyers.

But as confident as they are in whoever takes over operations, there remains a chance that a bleak future awaits.

“I’d just be heartbroken if I drove down Merrimon and it was a huge dry cleaners,” Rangel says. X

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25

ARTS & C U L T U R E

MUSIC

Of bluegrass and punk

Steep Canyon Rangers and Pinkeye release new albums

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN earnaudin@mountainx.com Barrett Smith’s initial reaction to his bandmate’s news was surprisingly calm.

Steep Canyon Rangers vocalist/ guitarist Woody Platt was leaving the Grammy-winning bluegrass ensemble. A founding member, Platt had been touring steadily for over 20 years and wanted to spend more time in Brevard with his wife, fellow singer-songwriter Shannon Whitworth, and their son, Rivers.

“I’ve known Woody a long time.

He’s been a close friend way before we were in this band together. So, I was happy for him,” says Smith, the group’s bassist since 2018. “I’m happy for people when they make really drastic changes, even if they’re not all positive. It’s just like, ‘Well, at least you’re living and making some big changes.’”

However, after the initial serenity wore off, Smith began to panic — and he says everyone else in the band did, too.

“Losing Woody is a lot of the identity of the band. Not all of it, but a lot of it was really wrapped up in Woody,” Smith says. “It’s like an extension of Woody in a lot of ways.”

Fortunately, Platt had no intentions of leaving his longtime friends high and dry. Though he continued to perform with the Rangers after the announcement was made public in April 2022, he also didn’t want his bandmates to drag their feet when it came to replacing him. According to Smith, outside forces made sure they didn’t.

“We didn’t mean for it to become public knowledge that Woody was leaving when it did. Honestly, it was kind of a secret amongst us. [But] somebody found out,” he says. “And then, all of a sudden, it was like, ‘Oh sh*t! Everybody knows.’ But it was kind of good in a way because it forced our hand a little bit.”

Though the Rangers have seen a handful of lineup changes over the years, Smith notes that recent moves have been more calculated and rooted in long-term relationships. Multiinstrumentalist Mike Ashworth, who joined in 2013, is the childhood best friend of founding member Mike Guggino (mandolin/mandola), and Smith had been close with everyone in the band for nearly a decade. Graham Sharp (banjo) and Nicky Sanders (fiddle) round out the ensemble.

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NEW BEGINNINGS: The Steep Canyon Rangers’ lineup now includes vocalist/guitarist Aaron Burdett, third from right.

Photo by Sandlin Gaither The band invited several musicians to submit recorded tryouts for Platt’s role. Smith also consulted Martin Anderson, music director for WNCW, who suggested Aaron Burdett.

After hearing some of Burdett’s work, Smith began lobbying for him.

And once Burdett submitted his recordings, everyone else in the band “had the same reaction that I did,” says Smith. “Like, ’OK, nothing else has really made sense, but this actually makes really good sense to us pretty deeply.’ And we were right.”

The proof is on the Rangers’ new LP, Morning Shift, which was released in early September. By the time the band went to the Inn Bat Cave with producer Darrell Scott and engineer Dave Sinko to cut its 14th studio album, Burdett had been playing with the group for a few months — beginning with what Smith calls getting thrown “into the deep end” in front of 17,000 people at the Hollywood Bowl. The newest Ranger handled the spotlight well.

“Luckily for Aaron, he didn’t have to be Woody. He didn’t have to take the thing on his shoulders. It’s not like we lost Mick Jagger or Robert Plant here. Woody just wasn’t playing that role,” Smith says. “We were already spreading the vocals around a lot like we were like the Eagles or The Band or somebody like that.

That’s just what we did. So, in that process, all the other singers in the band really have stepped up as well and instrumentally.”

While Smith notes that the group loves making music at Echo Mountain Recording, he says it often

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proves difficult to stay focused in one’s hometown where day-to-day life can easily creep in. But with a makeshift studio set up at the Inn Bat Cave, distractions proved minimal, and the latest iteration of the Rangers found further inspiration under Scott’s taskmaster leadership.

“Darrell was a very engaged producer, and he had ideas about how we could maximize what we are,” Smith says. “He didn’t have ideas like, ‘I think y’all should do this because I’m the master architect of this.’ He was like, ‘I think y’all should do this because this is what is good about y’all in my perspective, and I want to exploit it and celebrate it.’”

One challenge set forth by Scott was to have at least one instrumental

track on Morning Shift. Though the band initially pushed back on the idea, Scott insisted, and the Rangers got to work. They took “Old Stone House,” the introduction that they’ve long played live in front of “Call the Captain,” as a starting point.

Each member then brought additional ideas to the table and built the beautiful medley “Old Stone House/ Handlebars/Chimney Rock.”

Though the album features plenty of imagery-rich songwriting — particularly on opening track “Hominy Valley” — for which the Rangers have become known, the extended focus on instrumentation provides a clear standout on the new collection and is one of many encouraging elements for the band to build on going forward.

SUPERPUNKS: Among the stages that Pinkeye has rocked is Asheville’s revered The Orange Peel. Photo by Heather Burditt

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CONJUNCTIVITIS CREW In October 2021 at Sly Grog Lounge, Asheville-based punk band Pinkeye played its debut show and brought an infectious energy to the stage.

“We’re not ones to stand still, that’s for sure,” says guitarist Joe Hooten.

“We’ve played supertiny rooms like The Cave in Chapel Hill, and we’re just vibrating at a high frequency. I remember literally bouncing off The Cave walls the first time we played there. That’s how practices are, too — it’s natural and not canned. It’s pure energy: the real deal.”

Such unfiltered passion for music and performing comes naturally for a group forged from a deep love of early punk bands such as The Stooges, MC5 and Dead Boys. Bassist Scott Sturdy and guitarist John Kennedy sought comfort in these rebellious rockers during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, jamming occasionally on Kennedy’s porch.

“There’s a looseness to [those pioneering bands’] rhythm that punk turned away from with the Ramones — who I also love,” says drummer Chad Clay. “I also unapologetically love grunge bands like Nirvana and Dinosaur Jr., who would have and did call themselves punk.”

While those influences are evident, the quartet has developed its own electrifying sound and fostered a democratic songwriting process, resulting in seven originals for its debut EP, Everything Is Stupid, which was released in August. Clay notes that he and his bandmates bring complete songs to rehearsals, as well as single riffs that are built out as a unit.

The lack of drama and ego among the group also helps with productivity.

“There’s no prima donna lead singer, no made-up narrative that we use to promote the group, no need for smoke and mirrors,” Clay says. “It’s really refreshing to have a balance within a band like Pinkeye.

Otherwise, it just wouldn’t work as well as it does.”

The four instrumentalists also all contributed vocals to the collection under what Sturdy calls “a ‘you wrote it, you sing it’” rule. But regardless of who’s at the mic at any given moment, the quick-burst tracks like “Moody” and “Merch Girl” pack an appealing punk punch.

“I feel like every song is us barreling down Old Fort [Mountain] in a Peterbilt [tractor-trailer], ignoring the runaway truck ramps, mostly out of control, barely keeping it in between the lines,” Clay says. “No matter who’s singing, it’s always exhilarating.”

Pinkeye sought to capture that raucous sound by recording Everything

Is Stupid live under the guidance of local engineer Kevin Boggs. Clay notes that there’s “a balance between producing the life out of something and not doing enough to clarify the music.” As a cautionary tale, he points to Iggy Pop going back and undoing a lot of the mixing that David Bowie did to early Stooges recordings and rereleasing the tracks, which Clay now finds almost indecipherable.

“Kevin got so much clarity with us without using any overdubs — that really deserves recognition,” Clay says. “Most of the EP is first or second takes. Maybe one went to a third take because I broke my hi-hat clutch midsong. We all just listened back and said, ‘Yeah, that’s the energy we want.’”

Pinkeye also hired Adam Matza at Magic Ears Mastering to put the final touches on the EP. The high-quality recorded material and a headlining performance at the inaugural AVL Punk Fest in September at The Outpost serve as the band’s latest contributions to the city’s suddenly thriving punk scene.

“I think that so many residents of Asheville are working so hard just to get by that the typical [musical] fare isn’t speaking to them. People want to feel what they are listening to, both emotionally and often physically,” Clay says. “Punk shows are a release. I would so much rather play for a few dozen really engaged, really committed punk fans than to be background music for hundreds or more who mostly don’t listen and can’t remember what they’ve seen.”

The drummer adds that the wealth of talented local punk bands also generally helps each other out, which has played a major role in the genre’s recent resurgence. “Punks are typically distrusting of most organizations and institutions, so we’ve got to stick together,” he says. “I love being part of a community that supports each other not only when we are on top but when we struggle, too.”

While Pinkeye has already established itself as a major local player, the band feels as if it’s just getting started. Clay notes that Everything Is Stupid took longer to release than the group intended and that multiple new songs have already been written.

While each member is confident that a follow-up project will come together more quickly, Hooten has his sights on something even more ambitious.

“I’m an album guy. EPs and singles are fine and all, but I believe in the concept of the album,” he says.

“Pinkeye should get back into the studio soon and capture more of that raw power that we’d love to share with the world.”

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27

ARTS & C U L T U R E

POETRY

‘Sirens over the ridgeline’

Poet Evan Gray writes against Appalachian stereotypes in debut collection

BY THOMAS CALDER tcalder@mountainx.com A visitor to Evan Gray’s home in Asheville would likely find plenty of poems throughout the domicile.

“I love collecting journals and keeping my drafts scattered around a bunch of notebooks before moving to drafting them on a computer,” Gray explains.

“I try to keep a kinesthetic relationship with writing as much as possible.”

His preference to write longhand seems fitting when you read Gray’s debut collection, Thickets Swamped in Fence-Coated Briars. Released in October, the collection explores the physical and psychological tolls of life in Appalachia. Informed from his own upbringing in Jefferson, the region’s land and lost industries haunt the debut.

In this month’s poetry feature, Xpress speaks with Gray about the influence of Western North Carolina on his poetry as well as his efforts to write against stereotypes that often show up in Appalachian-based works. In addition to the chat, Gray also shares his book’s opening poem, an untitled piece that he describes as the collection’s prologue.

Xpress: Speak to me about the prologue itself and how you see it working with the rest of the collection.

Gray: I wanted to start the book with a type of reference point to give the readers context to the Appalachia I am talking about. I feel like it gets represented in a way where its beauty is almost mystical and nothing bad ever happens. The opposite is true, too.

Sometimes people think of Appalachia as being backward or full of all these issues that don’t exist anywhere else in America. I didn’t want to do that, either. I wanted it to be real, real to me and what I have lived.

NEW RELEASE: Local poet Evan Gray recently celebrated the release of his debut poetry collection, Thickets Swamped in Fence-Coated Briars. Author image courtesy of Gray Has place always featured prominently in your poetry? Or has Appalachia started showing up more recently in your work?

I think everything I write is concerned with my home. Western North Carolina, specifically a plot of land in Glendale Springs, N.C., has been in my family since the late 1790s, before Ashe County was even formed. I grew up on that land, my dad grew up on that land, his grandfather built a house there and so on. I’ve come to terms with the fact that everything I write will be labeled as Appalachian in one way or another. If I write a science fiction novel, it will be considered Appalachian. If I learn to sing opera or get really good at painting, whatever I do will be considered Appalachian.

That’s fine.

Is it fine, or am I picking up on some slight resentment?

I think some folks definitely have assumptions about what makes a book or a poem “Appalachian.” I find most Appalachian writing buying into some of the marketable stereotypes from the region instead of saying or doing anything interesting. There’s tremendous pressure out there for some writers to ask themselves — “Is this Appalachian enough?” — before sending stuff out into the world. I’m not interested in that. I’m interested in what comes natural to me, and it just so happens that I’m from the mountains. It’s unshakable.

Shifting gears here, a lot of your poems are written in sections. Can you speak to this approach and choice?

I feel like sections are the form that best represents what I’m trying to do

An untitled poem from Thickets Swamped in Fence-Coated Briars If you live near the hills, near where people use their hands, near where the days are hounding and long, where the screams inside your chest belt and buckle your knees, where your hands ache when you lay down, and when you close your eyes, you can hear sirens over the ridgeline.

Pale green colors flicker, tracing a field bush-hogged & wounded. We become cut with language and weight

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damaging rain. Words, lay sad behind my tongue. Words, form the abandoned racetrack: a distorted and disfigured mile-marker of me. Might you be home to one more good time, video reunions of fathers coming home from Afghanistan play on perpetual loop.

I see the gleam of lines of the highway late in the afternoon after rain.

I see my dementia-plagued grandmother. I pretend I am the shadowed

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figures cast on the rock foundation of my childhood basement. O, and the crows — lining the fence to the trailer park.

Rest is punctuated by the impending. We go back to work or sit down for a second or catch our breaths or go find something else to fix. At the house, we tell this funny little joke about life: everyone who dies also goes to work.

in this book. I think my role as a poet, at least with this project, is to observe.

I’m reminded of Walt Whitman when he wrote, “I think I will do nothing for a long time but listen” in Leaves of Grass.

Individual short poems are great. Some of my favorite poems in the world are short and encased on one page with a title, and they look all neat and pleasing.

But for Thickets, I wanted to include as much as possible as it relates to a place, feeling, image or something else that connects each section together.

I’m also always interested in hearing more about a poem’s shape. In some instances, you’ve got sections that literally look as if they’re melting off the page. In other instances, there is a lot of white space on the page. Could you speak to the general process of shaping a given poem?

The form of the poem or the way it appears on the page is something I fiddle with constantly. I draft a lot of my poems first by hand. I’ll edit then translate them to a Word document when I feel like they’re ready, but I always try to keep some part of the longhand evident in the translation.

I’ve also been thinking a lot about the poet being an attentive observer, like I mentioned before. Thickets is in one way about the destruction of land in the name of development. I see the ways these poems look as being about the same thing, just with language.

What role do you see poetry playing in today’s world? And how would you like to see its influence/presence change, if at all?

Man, that’s a big question. Whenever I think about poetry’s function in the world, I’m reminded of Henry David Thoreau who said, in so many words, that it’s amusing how little space poetry occupies in the landscape. I don’t think he said this because he didn’t find it important but rather an outcome of living life, secondary to his main goal of living. I say “outcome” instead of “product” because I do feel like poetry has become increasingly commodified and attached to it are these various points of value — social or other.

There’s little money in poetry, which is why I like it as a medium. However, it does seem like there’s rich social currency coming out of it in online spaces. I’m not really interested in that either. I don’t really read too much contemporary poetry unless they are by authors who I have to seek out. The stuff that filters to the top often seems too concerned with the commodification in one of those previous ways.

As far as its role in society, it’s hard to say. Maybe it offers an alternative way of experiencing language. Maybe it is just a fun little game to play.

Any book recommendations?

One of my favorite local poets is Tim Earley. Tim is from Sandy Mush

but lives in Asheville now. He’s been doing poetry for a good long time and he’s excellent at it. I reread his book Linthead Stomp while I was drafting Thickets, and it shook me to my core — so much about labor, grief and living inside Appalachia while industry and other forms of “progress” zoom in to try to rescue it. I believe there’s a collected works of Tim’s writing coming out at some point in the future. I’d say keep your eyes peeled for that.

My buddy Colin Miller also has a new record called Haw Creek. I love everything I’ve heard from it. It’s a good mix of ’90s and Appalachian sound.

There’s a dulcimer on one song called “Never Wanna” and it’s so refreshing to hear that kind of stuff. Colin’s a great lyricist, too. I hope everyone gets to listen to that record; it sounds like it was made in the mountains.

Who are the four poets on your personal Mount Rushmore?

If I have a Mount Rushmore of poets, it’s made of littered trash from the creek bed that I can remold at any time. I guess my first installation would be John Milton, Jonathan Williams, Besmilr Brigham and Ola Belle Reed. It would probably change before I could even get the first one built. X

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ARTS & C U L T U R E

FOOD ROUNDUP

What’s new in food Local goods and takeout market open on Patton Avenue The Market at Sage and Spice, a local goods and takeout market that also offers catering services, celebrated its grand opening on Oct. 24.

Housed in the former Bonfire BBQ location, the market features salads, paninis, Cuban sandwiches, desserts and a variety of coffee and other beverages. Takeout meals, made in-house, are also available along with a selection of wine, beer and cider.

Owner Tori Frasher, a native of Greenville, S.C., moved to Asheville seven years ago to pursue a career in international food, culture and event planning. In 2019, she opened Sage and Spice Catering with chefs Sergio Castro and Amanda Delgado to focus on weddings, large gatherings, holiday events and corporate functions. “Growing up in a large Lebanese family, my grandmother and great-grandmother taught me how important food can be to family and as a love language,” she says.

Castro, executive chef at The Market, began his culinary career over 30 years ago in Peruvian kitchens and operated the now-closed Conosur in Mills River for five years.

“This new location and venture will allow me to continue crafting my passion for food,” he says, “while also expanding our catering business and being a part of the Asheville food and business community.”

Frasher says she is excited to partner with local makers such as Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn, Darë Vegan Cheese, Shanti Elixirs and Devil’s Foot Beverage Co. “The list keeps growing,” she says. “If people want to sell their products here, we’ve got the space, and I’m open to it.

Asheville is all about community, and that’s what I love so much about it.

Even the plants are from local florist Stargazers [Designs].”

In January, the market will hold an international dinner series, with each week featuring cuisine and beverages from a different country.

The market is open TuesdayFriday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Market at Sage and Spice is at 1056 Patton Ave. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4j.

Tea subscription service Brad Smith started brewing and canning his tea, Infruition, at Pisgah 30

NOV. 8-14, 2023

English began teaching online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, using material from the 11 books she has authored. “My books are largely based around the seasons, following the natural rhythms of the calendar year,” she says. After partnering with local libraries on classes this summer, she says she wanted to pursue a more evergreen opportunity near her home of Candler. Drawing on her relationship with the WNC Farmers Market, English approached Phil Jacobus, market manager, with the new facility in mind.

“Our interests completely dovetailed,” she says. “And I’m hoping to provide those attending my classes with a regular, seasonally relevant educational series on a medley of topics related to small-scale homesteading, natural homemaking, entertaining, crafting and more.”

WNC FoodWorks is at 570 Brevard Road, Unit 9. For more information on English’s classes, visit avl.mx/d4l.

The Purple Onion celebrates 25 years

MARKETING: Owner Tori Frasher celebrated the grand opening of The Market at Sage & Spice last month. Photo by Andy Hall Brewing Co. just two years ago. Now the company distributes across the Carolinas and Tennessee and is partnering with a Savannah, Ga.-based yaupon tea farm on a fourth flavor to be released this fall.

The company is also rolling out a CSA-style program, through which customers can sign up for a monthly subscription that will give them 24 mixand-match cans at a discounted price.

Smith says he sources locally whenever possible. Infruition’s organic blueberry citrus yerba mate, for example, is steeped with rosemary, blueberry, lemon, lime and grapefruit, and sweetened with honey from farms in Franklin.

Smith started his brewing operation after he made a batch of tea for owner Dave Quinn, who really liked it.

“The sense of community in Asheville is basically why I got the idea for the CSA,” says Smith. “It’s

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an opportunity to say thanks to everyone who has supported us.”

Smith says the company will continue to cater to the local market, but he hopes to expand in the future.

“It’s always good to know where your roots are and to stay true. But I also think the more people who can enjoy it, the better.”

For more information, visit avl.mx/d4k.

Class series at WNC FoodWorks Beginning this month, author Ashley English is teaching seasonally minded classes at the new WNC FoodWorks facility at the WNC Farmers Market.

Topics will range from hosting a cookie exchange to making winter beverages and will run through mid-December.

Saluda’s Purple Onion will mark 25 years of business with a birthday bash on Sunday, Nov. 19, 4-9 p.m., with live music from Michael Flynn, The Paper Crowns and The Get Right Band.

Also during the week of Monday, Nov. 13, the restaurant will feature a “Blast from the Past” menu, bringing back favorites from menus past. On Tuesday, Nov. 14, an anniversary gourmet wine dinner is scheduled from 6-9 p.m. “We owe our success to our incredible team and our loyal patrons,” says co-owner and chef Chambli Stuber, in a press release.

“This celebration is as much theirs as it is ours.”

The Purple Onion is at 16 E. Main St., Saluda. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4m.

Asheville’s first nonalcoholic festival ZeroProof Fest, Asheville’s first nonalcoholic drink festival, will take place Friday, Nov. 10, and Saturday, Nov. 11, at Devil’s Foot Beverage Co.’s taproom, The Mule. The twoday event will include samples of nonalcoholic beverages from companies such as Athletic Brewing Co., Untitled Art, Drømme and Burial Beer Co. On Friday, guests will walk a red carpet into a black-tie soirée from 6-9 p.m., with small plates from Sage and Spice Catering and tunes from a live DJ.

Come Feast In Our Enchanted Zen Gardens The more casual Afternoon Shindig from noon-4 p.m. Saturday will feature small bites from Sage and Spice, as well as live music.

The Mule at Devil’s Foot Beverage Co. is at 131 Sweeten Creek Road. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4n.

Asheville outdoor dining program The City of Asheville made updates to its outdoor dining program at the City Council meeting on Oct. 24.

Updates include a new outdoor dining ordinance allowing for annual permitting of “streeteries,” which use public parking spaces in addition to sidewalks for tables. The city also approved a new fee structure, improved the administration and management of the program, highlighted best practices and procedures in an outdoor dining guide, and provided instruction on the application process.

The updated program will launch in January, with the application process opening for businesses Monday, Nov. 13, on the city’s development portal.

For more information, visit avl.mx/d4o.

Taco Boy opens second location

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At the end of last month, Taco Boy celebrated the grand opening of its second local location, at Biltmore Park in South Asheville. The restaurant, which originated in Folly Beach, S.C., opened a location in West Asheville in December 2022.

The new space, last occupied by counter-service restaurant Neo Burrito, has been transformed into a full-service dining room featuring a mural by local artist Wyatt Grant, along with a sunroom, outdoor patio and bar.

Chef Miguel “Migs” Franco, who has been with the Taco Boy team since July, developed a menu including many of the dishes that are served at the West Asheville location. He also introduced new menu items such as empanadas, jicama salad, tortas and whole steamed snapper.

The beverage offerings mirror those at the West Asheville location, with additional beers on tap.

Taco Boy at Biltmore Park is at 2 Town Square Blvd. For more information, visit avl.mx/d3i.

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AR T S & C UL T U R E

ROUNDUP

Around Town Art in the Heart wraps up in Pack Square Plaza The final installation of Art in the Heart, Letters to My Children, will be on display in the median of Pack Square Park through Monday, Nov. 27.

The project, part of the Pack Square Plaza Visioning and Improvements Project, helped city planners explore ways to make the plaza more reflective of Asheville’s diverse community and history. The final report and recommendations were adopted by Asheville City Council on Sept. 6.

Letters to My Children features two 5-by-7-foot digital prints by artist and teacher Lara Nguyen, who was diagnosed with stage 4 uterine leiomyosarcoma in July 2018. Nguyen couldn’t sleep due to worrying about dying before her children, Atticus and Moon, were grown. She wrote letters to them, recording memories and their favorite recipes, and then decided to share her journey, hoping to help others cope, grieve and heal. She died earlier this year.

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“I love that this project brings a difficult and very personal experience to a public, often politicized space,” says Karli Stephenson, urban designer with the City of Asheville. “I think this project breaks through ... divisive thinking. ... Standing in a very public plaza, reading Lara’s words overlaid on images of her beautiful children, and knowing that she is no longer physically here to speak these words to her children — it’s hard not to feel something.”

A chalkboard podium inviting community engagement will remain on display through Wednesday, Nov. 15.

Pack Square Park is at 1 Court Plaza.

For more information, visit avl.mx/c6g.

Allen School receives historical marker The Allen School, one of the first institutions that provided educational

opportunities for Black women and other underserved populations, was dedicated with a historical marker on Oct. 21.

Established in 1887, the school was originally at 27 College Place, now the site of the Explore Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Founded by Methodist missionaries L.M. and Ann Pinney Pease, it offered educational programs for both whites and African Americans in the area. It closed in 1974 as enrollment declined.

Among the graduates of the Allen School are musician Nina Simone and NASA’s “human computer” Christine Darden.

The marker is at 205 College St. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4t.

Exhibit highlights Black life during Jim Crow era This month, three Asheville Parks & Recreation community centers are hosting Navigating Jim Crow: The Green Book and Oasis Spaces in North Carolina.

The traveling exhibit features personal memories and information about Black travelers’ use of The Negro Motorist Green Book in North Carolina during the Jim Crow era of legal segregation.

ART WITH HEART: The work of artist and teacher Lara Nguyen, who died earlier this year of complications from cancer, will be featured in the final installment of Art in the Heart. Photo courtesy of Stone Cloud Studio The exhibit consists of eight panels showcasing historic and modern-day images of business owners, travelers and sites, as well as statements gathered from oral histories.

The Negro Motorist Green Book, published from 1936-66, was a guide to safe spaces for Black travelers. In North Carolina, 13 of the 327 businesses listed were in Buncombe County.

“Locally, businesses like the Savoy Hotel on Eagle Street, James Keys Hotel on Southside, Phyllis Wheatley YWCA and other Asheville establishments played an imperative role in creating safe spaces for locals and tourists,” says D. Tyrell McGirt, director of Asheville Parks & Recreation, in a press release. “Many elders have firsthand accounts of visiting these businesses and even using Green Books for travel. This is an opportunity for learning, critical thinking and discussion for them, as well as younger generations — and for people who’ve never known the vital importance of such a tool.”

Designed by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the exhibit was developed by the N.C. African American Heritage Commission and its Oasis Spaces Project, with funding provided by a 2017 grant award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The free, self-guided exhibit will be at the Grove Street Community Center at 36 Grove St. through Thursday, Nov. 9, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. From Monday, Nov. 13-Friday, Nov. 17, 9:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., the exhibit will be at the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center at 285 Livingston St. From Monday, Nov. 20-Wednesday, Nov. 22, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m., the exhibit will be at the Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center at 121 Shiloh Road.

For more information, visit avl.mx/d4u.

Voices of Peace The choirs of Congregation Beth HaTephila and St. Mark’s Lutheran Church will hold an interfaith concert celebrating diverse musical traditions on Sunday, Nov. 12, 4 p.m.

Voices of Peace, held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, will feature songs of prayer and praise as well as new and old psalms. Vance Reese, associate professor of music at Brevard College, will play an organ piece composed by Elsa Barraine, a French Jew who fought with the Resistance during World War II. The event will raise funds for the Jewish Federations of North America and Lutheran Services Carolinas.

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is at 10 N. Liberty St. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4s.

A concert for healing Womansong, Asheville’s longest-running and largest women’s community chorus, will mark its 36th anniversary with a fall concert series on Friday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 11., at 3 p.m., at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville.

Titled “Healing Hearts,” the show features music ranging from choral anthems to contemporary pop songs that encourage self-care. The celebration will also recognize the healing powers of community.

The 75-member chorus, founded in 1987 by composer, music teacher and poet Linda Metzner, is composed of women of various ages, musical abilities and backgrounds.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville is at 1 Edwin Place. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4r.

Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall

Folkmoot USA hosts holiday market

The Veterans Healing Farm in Hendersonville will host the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9. The wall, which is a 3/5 scale of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, will be open for visitors around the clock until Sunday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m.

Events will include readings from Brothers and Sisters Like These, a Vietnam veterans’ writing group, presentations from the Quilts of Valor Foundation and an art exhibition from Bullets & Bandaids featuring over 20 Vietnam veterans.

The Veterans Healing Farm is at 38 Yale Road, Hendersonville. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4q.

Folkmoot USA will host its first holiday bazaar Friday, Nov. 17, 3-9 p.m., in the field next to the Folkmoot Friendship Center in Waynesville.

Inspired by European holiday markets, the event will feature a variety of local crafts and vendors, as well as food and beverage trucks.

Live music will be performed throughout the event, beginning with Celtic Road at 3 p.m., followed by country and rock musician Jerry Gaff at 4 p.m., bluegrass and Americana duo Asheville Junction at 5 p.m., and Americana artist Virginia Drake at 7 p.m.

Folkmoot USA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating cultures through arts and education, plans to hold the event annually.

The Folkmoot Friendship Center is at 112 Virginia Ave., Waynesville. For more information, visit avl.mx/cp9.

Second annual author fair in Black Mountain Over 20 regional authors and illustrators will participate in the second annual Write Local, Read Local Author Fair at the Black Mountain Library on Saturday, Nov. 11, 9 a.m.-noon.

A new feature this year will be a reading series held in the library’s computer room. Jacqui Castle, founder and operator of Lit Local Books, will moderate the series, which will include illustrator Frank Remkiewicz and poet Clint Bowman.

“Write Local, Read Local is a wonderful way to meet and support local writers in our area,” says Bowman.

“As our literary community continues to grow, we look forward to expanding this event in the years to come.”

Authors are encouraged to reach out to the library to be considered for next year’s event. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash.

The Black Mountain Library is at 105 N. Dougherty St., Black Mountain. For more information, visit avl.mx/d4p.

— Andy Hall X

with additional reporting from Murryn Payne

MOVIE REVIEWS PRISCILLA: Writer/director Sofia Coppola’s dramatization of Priscilla and Elvis Presley’s romance is a snoozy, repetitive affair. Grade: C-minus — Edwin Arnaudin

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

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8

SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic, 8pm

BLACK MOUNTAIN BREWING Jay Brown (roots, blues, jazz), 6pm

THE GREY EAGLE Nation of Language w/ Miss Grit (new-wave, punk), 8pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Bluegrass Jam w/The Saylor Brothers, 6:30pm

THE ODD Nox Eternus, Urocyon & Vras (metal, deathcore), 8pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Well-Crafted Music w/ Matt Smith, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Old Time Jam, 5pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. FBVMA: Mountain Music Jam, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8:30pm PULP The Bins & Gabrielknowseverything (electronic, hip-hop), 8pm SHAKEY'S Sexy Tunes w/Ek Balam & Mad Mike, 10pm SHILOH & GAINES Trivia Night, 7pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Dan's Jam (bluegrass), 7pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Irish Music Circle, 7pm

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9 ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR Robert Thomas Band (jazz, prog-rock, Celtic), 7:30pm AYURPRANA LISTENING ROOM The Sea The Sea w/ Skylar Gudasz (indiefolk, pop), 7pm CROW & QUILL The Burger Kings (rock'n'roll), 8pm

AUSTIN-BASED DREAM POP: On Monday, Nov. 13, Austin-based band Sun June performs at Burial’s new music venue, Eulogy, with Runnner supporting as well, starting at 7 p.m. Sun June combines earthy folk with dream-pop atmospherics to create a blend of vibrant sounds. Photo by Alex Winker FLEETWOOD'S Thelma & the Sleaze, Safety Coffin, Shaker & Yawni (Southern-rock, blues, garage), 9pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Jerry's Dead (Grateful Dead & JGB Tribute), 6pm

THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Karaoke w/Terraoke, 9pm

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST World Music Night w/ Zondo (Liberian, folk, pop), 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE Seth Walker (Americana, gospel), 8pm

27 CLUB Sacrilege (dance party), 10pm

THE ODD Fortune Child, Silver Doors, Jackson Wesley & the Holy Daggers (psych-rock, indie), 7pm

ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR Mr Jimmy's Friday Night Blues, 8pm

OUTSIDER BREWING Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Not Rocket Science Trivia, 6pm

SALVAGE STATION GZA & Fishbone (hiphop), 8pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7:30pm

SHAKEY'S Karaoke, 9pm

MAD CO. BREW HOUSE Karaoke w/Banjo Mitch, 6pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Color Machine (folk, rock), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING Rossdafareye (Appalachian, funk), 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES Karaoke Night, 8pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Django Jazz Jam, 7pm THE DFR LOUNGE Steve Simon & The Kings of Jazz (Latin, jazz), 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Sold Out: Lukas Nelson & POTR (country), 8pm THE OUTPOST Anuraag Pendyal (rock'n'roll, swing, R&B), 6pm THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Dark City Kings (bluegrass, country, indie), 7pm THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Mr Jimmy (blues), 5pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL • Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast w/Jamie McLean Band (soul, rock, Americana), 9:30pm • Truth w/Pathwey, Pots & Pans (electronic, psy-bass, house), 10pm BERADU--SPECIALTY MARKET, KITCHEN & BAR Greg Candle (country, old-blues), 6pm

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BOTANIST & BARREL TASTING BAR + BOTTLE SHOP Fancy Marie & Her Gentleman (rock, blues, Americana), 6pm CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE ASHEVILLE • Comedy at Catawba: Dan Carney, 7pm • Comedy at Catawba: Freaky Friday Stand-Up Showcase, 9pm CROW & QUILL Firecracker Jazz Band, 8pm FLEETWOOD'S The Ritualists, Tight & Vakili Band (psych-rock, glam, post-punk), 9pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM • Holler Choir (Appalachian, Americana, bluegrass), 2pm • Imij of Soul (Jimi Hendrix Tribute), 7pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Honky-Tonk Fridays w/Jackson Grimm, 4pm • The Knotty G's (soul, Americana), 9pm LA TAPA LOUNGE Open Mic Night w/ Hamza, 8pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Local Gossip (covers), 8pm ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Vintage Pistol (rock, funk, pop), 10pm ONE WORLD BREWING Ashley Chambliss (surfrock, blues, Americana), 8pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST The Dirty French Broads (Americana, bluegrass), 8pm SALVAGE STATION Lespecial w/Tand & Potch (indie-rock), 8pm SHAKEY'S • Kalgon & Urocyon (metal, doom, stoner-rock), 9pm • Friday Late Nights w/ DJ Ek Balam, 12am SHILOH & GAINES Banjo Mitch McConnell & The Senators (bluegrass, rock, old-time), 9pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Anemoia (psych-funk), 9pm THE GREY EAGLE Tis' The Damn Season: Taylor Swift Dance Party, 9pm THE ORANGE PEEL Charles Wesley Godwin (country, folk), 8pm THE RAD BREW CO. Peggy Ratusz Trio (blues), 7pm THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Syrrup (jazz, soul, and blues), 7pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Above Ground (rock'n'roll, Americana), 7:30pm

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY ...Like it's 1999 (dance party), 9pm ASHEVILLE CLUB Mr Jimmy (blues), 7pm BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 6pm CORK & KEG Soul Blue (blues, rock'n'roll, soul), 8pm CROW & QUILL Nick Garrison Jazz, 8pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Muddy Guthrie (rock, Americana), 5pm URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Latin DJ Night, 9pm

CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE ASHEVILLE Comedy at Catawba: Eli Olsbeg, 6:30pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO. Pheribee & Mother Marrow (rock, neo-folk), 6pm

PISGAH BREWING CO. Pisgah Sunday Jam, 1:30pm

CORK & KEG PubSing, 3pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Collin Cheek (Appalachian, Americana), 4pm

SALVAGE STATION Kool Keith w/Spaceman Jones & The Motherships (hip hop), 8pm

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa, 3pm

ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO. Stand-Up Comedy Professional Open Mic, 6:30pm

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

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST • Sunday Jazz Jam, 1:30pm • Chilltonic & Bill's Garage (alt-rock, folk, psych), 6pm

S & W MARKET Mr Jimmy (blues), 1pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Aaron Woody Wood (Appalachia, soul, Americana), 7pm THE GREY EAGLE • Patio: Country Brunch w/Jackson Grimm, 12pm

EULOGY Avey Tare, Geologist & Deakin (alt-indie), 7pm FLEETWOOD'S The Deathbots, Busy Weather, Tiny TVs (punk, indie, rock), 8pm FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON Comedy Hypnosis w/ Jon Dee, 8pm GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM Hops Around Comedy, 6:30pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Nobody's Darling String Band, 4pm • Alma Russ w/The Boondockers (Appalachian, country-folk), 9pm LA TAPA LOUNGE Karaoke Night, 9pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Billingsley (rock), 8pm ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Ajeva (funk, rock), 10pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Magenta Sunshine (blues, folk, soul), 9pm SALVAGE STATION Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band w/ Sexbruise? (funk), 8pm SHAKEY'S Boot Scoot N Boogie (dance party), 10pm SHILOH & GAINES Mood Rings (R&B, soul, jazz), 9pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Eaze Dogg (hip hop), 8pm THE BURGER BAR Best Worst Karaoke, 9pm THE GREY EAGLE Southern Culture On The Skids (rock'n'roll, surf, folk), 8pm THE ODD Party Foul Drag: Saturday Night Tease, 8pm THE ORANGE PEEL Hiss Golden Messenger w/Adeem The Artist (indie, folk, alt-country), 8pm THE OUTPOST Mel Bryant & The Mercy Makers w/ Shauna Dean Cokeland (rock, punk, folk-pop), 6pm

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C LU BL A N D • The Trouble Notes (tribal, folk), 8pm THE RESTORATION HOTEL ASHEVILLE • Brunch & Live Music w/Lyric, 10:30am • Karaoke Nights, 8pm PLĒB URBAN WINERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 4pm

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13 27 CLUB Karaoke Monday, 10pm DSSOLVR Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm EULOGY Runner & Sun June (indie-rock, folk, dreampop), 5pm FLEETWOOD'S Best Ever Karaoke, 8pm HAYWOOD COUNTRY CLUB Open Mic w/ Taylor Martin & Special Guests, 7:15pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. • Fo Daniels (rock'n'roll), 2pm • Totally Rad Trivia w/ Mitch Fortune, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Quizzo! Pub Trivia w/ Jason Mencer, 7:30pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. It Takes All Kinds Open Mic Nights, 7pm ONE WORLD BREWING Open Mic Downtown, 8pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Mashup Mondays w/ The JLloyd Mashup Band, 8pm SHAKEY'S Latin Night, 9pm THE GREY EAGLE Mama’s Broke w/ Erika Lewis (dark-folk, Americana), 8pm THE JOINT NEXT DOOR Mr Jimmy & Friends (blues), 7pm

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY • Trivia: Are You Smarter Than a Drag Queen?, 8pm • Karaoke w/Ganymede, 9pm FLEETWOOD'S Dave Hill, Los Gun Show & Dead Vibes Ensemble (rock), 9pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Team Trivia, 7pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST The Grateful Family Band Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute), 6pm SHAKEY'S Booty Tuesday, 9pm SHILOH & GAINES Songwriters Night, 7pm

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

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Old Time Jam, 5pm

LAZOOM ROOM BAR & GORILLA Modelface Comedy Presents: Mike Albanese, 7:30pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. FBVMA: Mountain Music Jam, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8:30pm SHAKEY'S Sexy Tunes w/Ek Balam & Mad Mike, 10pm SHILOH & GAINES Trivia Night, 7pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic, 8pm THE GREY EAGLE Tab Benoit (soul, swamp-blues), 8pm THE JOINT NEXT DOOR Rod Sphere (rock, pop), 6pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO. Spafford (alt-rock), 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Grace Potter w/Eddie 9V (rock, country, blues), 8pm

SILVERADOS Dark City Comedy Night, 8pm

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

SOVEREIGN KAVA Weekly Open Jam hosted by Chris Cooper & Friends, 6:30pm

ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR The MGB's (acoustic), 7:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE Taj Farrant w/Nathan Bryce & Loaded Dice (rock, blues), 8pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Brujeria (metal), 7pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN White Horse Open Mic, 7pm

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15 BLACK MOUNTAIN BREWING Jay Brown (roots, blues, jazz), 6pm FLEETWOOD'S Psych Night, 9pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Bluegrass Jam w/The Saylor Brothers, 6:30pm

MAD CO. BREW HOUSE Vaden Landers (country), 6pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Kid Billy (Americana, blues, indie-folk), 7pm ONE WORLD BREWING Melissa & McKinney (blues, soul, funk), 8pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Five Door Sedan & Krave Amiko (indierock, pop), 8pm OUTSIDER BREWING Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

SHILOH & GAINES Karaoke Night, 8pm THE DFR LOUNGE Steve Simon & The Kings of Jazz (Latin, jazz), 7pm THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Karaoke w/Terraoke, 9pm THE ODD Challenger Deep, The Welcoming & Father Figures (rock), 8pm THE ORANGE PEEL Depths of Wikipedia Live, 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Search & Destroy Karaoke, 9pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Stetson's Stink Bug Bourbon Band (country, Americana), 5pm

HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Not Rocket Science Trivia, 6pm

THE OUTPOST Carter Lybrand (country), 7pm

THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Mr Jimmy (blues), 5pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Marshgrass Mamas & Admiral Radio (Americana, folk), 7:30pm

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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): Your victories-inprogress are subtle. They may not be totally visible to you yet. Let me describe them so you can feel properly confident about what you are in the process of accomplishing. 1. A sustained surge of hard-earned personal growth is rendering one of your problems mostly irrelevant. 2. You have been redefining what rewards are meaningful to you, and that’s motivating you to infuse your ambitions with more soulfulness. 3. You are losing interest in a manipulative game that doesn’t serve you as well as it should. 4. You are cultivating more appreciation for fascinating and useful problems.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Taurus physicist Richard Feynman was a smart and accomplished person who won a Nobel Prize. He articulated a perspective that will be healthy for you to experiment with in the coming weeks. He said, “I can live with doubt and uncertainty and not knowing.

I think it’s much more interesting not knowing than to have answers which might be wrong. I have approximate answers and possible beliefs and different degrees of certainty about different things, but I’m not absolutely sure of anything, and there are many things I don’t know anything about.” Give Feynman’s approach a try, dear Taurus. Now is an excellent time to explore the perks of questioning everything. I bet you’ll be pleased with how free and easy it makes you feel.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): To earn money, I have worked as a janitor, dishwasher, olive picker, ditch-digger, newspaper deliverer and 23 other jobs involving hard labor. In addition, I have done eight artistic jobs better suited to my sensitive temperament and creative talents. Am I regretful or resentful about the thousands of hours I toiled at tasks I didn’t enjoy? A little. But mostly I’m thankful for them. They taught me how to interact harmoniously with a wide array of people.

They helped forge my robust social conscience.

And they motivated me to eventually figure out how to get jobs I really loved. Now I invite you to take an inventory of your own work life, Gemini.

It’s an excellent time to evaluate where you’ve been and where you want to go in the future.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): There are so many kinds of sweetness. Zesty spicy sweetness.

Tender balmy fragrant sweetness. Sour or bitter sweetness. Musky piquant sweetness. Luscious succulent sweetness. One of my favorite types of sweetness is described by Cancerian poet Stephen Dunn. He wrote, “Often a sweetness comes as if on loan, stays just long enough to make sense of what it means to be alive, then returns to its dark source. As for me, I don’t care where it’s been, or what bitter road it’s traveled to come so far, to taste so good.” My analysis of the astrological omens suggests to me that you are about to commune with at least three of these sweetnesses, Cancerian. Maybe most of them.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Author Dan Savage advocates regular indulgence in sloth. He notes that few of us can “get through 24 hours without a little downtime. Human beings need to stare off into space, look out the window, daydream and spend time every day being indolent and useless.” I concur, and I hope you will indulge in more downtime than usual during the coming weeks. For the sake of your long-term mental and physical health, you need to relax extra deep and strong now — to recharge your battery with delicious and delightful abandon.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): According to my deep and thorough analysis of your astrological rhythms, your mouth will soon be a wonder of nature. The words emerging from your lips will be extra colorful, precise, and persuasive.

Your taste buds will have an enhanced vividness as they commune with the joys of food and drink. And I suspect your tongue and lips will exult in an upgrade of aptitude and pleasure while plying the arts of sex and intimate love. Congratulations, Mouthy Maestro!

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In addition to being a masterful composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) played the piano, violin, harp, bassoon, clarinet, horn, flute, oboe and trumpet. His experience led him to believe that musicians best express their skills when they play fast. It’s more challenging to be excellent when playing slowly, he thought. But I will invite you to adopt the reverse attitude and approach in the coming weeks, Libra. According to my astrological analysis, you will be most successful if you work gradually and incrementally, with careful diligence and measured craftiness.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In my horoscopes for Scorpios, I tend to write complex messages.

My ideas are especially thick and rich and lush. Why? Because I imagine you as being complex, thick, rich and lush. Your destiny is labyrinthine and mysterious and intriguing, and I aspire to reflect its intricate, tricky beauty. But this time, in accordance with current astrological omens, I will offer you my simplest, most straightforward oracle ever. I borrowed it from author Mary Anne Radmacher-Hershey: “Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Play with abandon.

Choose with no regret. Continue to learn.

Appreciate your friends. Do what you love.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In her poem “Requiem,” Anna Akhmatova says, “I must kill off memory . . . and I must learn to live anew.” I think most of us can benefit from periodically engaging in this brave and robust exercise. It’s not a feat to be taken lightly — not to be done more than once or twice a year. But guess what: The coming weeks will be a time when such a ritual might be wise for you. Are you ready to purge old business and prepare the way for a fresh start? Here are your words of power: forgiveness, clearing, cleaning, release, absolution, liberation.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): We need stories almost as much as we need to breathe, eat, sleep and move. It’s impossible to live without them. The best stories nourish our souls, stimulate our imagination and make life exciting.

That’s not to say that all stories are healthy for us. We sometimes cling to narratives that make us miserable and sap our energy. I think we have a sacred duty to de-emphasize and even jettison those stories — even as we honor and relish the rich stories that empower and inspire us. I bring these thoughts to your attention, Capricorn, because you’re in a phase of your cycle when you will especially thrive by disposing of the bad old stories and celebrating the good ones.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): I could be wrong, but I don’t think so: You are smarter and wiser than you realize about the pressing issues that are now vying for your attention. You know more than you know you know. I suspect this will soon become apparent, as streams of fresh insights rise up from the depths of your psyche and guide your conscious awareness toward clarity. It’s OK to squeal with glee every time a healing intuition shows up. You have earned this welcome phase of lucid certainty.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In Indigenous cultures throughout history, shamans have claimed they have the power to converse with and even temporarily become hawks, coyotes, snakes and other creatures. Why do they do that? It’s a long story, but one answer is that they believe animals have intelligences that are different from what humans have. The shamans aspire to learn from those alternate ways of seeing and comprehending the world. Many of us who live in Western culture dismiss this venerable practice, although I’ve known animal lovers who sympathize with it. If you are game for a fun experiment, Pisces, I invite you to try your own version. Choose an animal to learn from. Study and commune with it. Ask it to reveal intuitions that surprise and enrich you.

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EMPLOYMENT ADMINISTRATIVE/ OFFICE PERSONAL ASSISTANT IN FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA $ 40,000 --$ 50,000 per-year, plus use of nearby Fort Lauderdale waterfront apartment. 40-hour week. I am a, educated, healthy, well established, 6’1” 195 lbs., 84-year-old, non-smoker/ drugs, conservative, honest, and predictable man looking for a dependable assistant to facilitate making my life easy, smooth and stress free.

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Qualifications: professional demeanor, articulate, computer/internet savvy, great speller, careful driving, good swimmer, paramedic or EMT or willing to become one, healthy, physically-fit, mid-20’s to mid-40s, (able to pick me up should I fall) conservative dresser, non-smoker, drug free, street smart, personable, mature, easy going, reliable, self-starter, responsible, regular guy type. Should not be: temperamental, vain, high maintenance or have a criminal record. Serious replies with very recent photo and current resume to: cdw1906@yahoo. com.

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877-589-0747. (AAN CAN) UNCLAIMED / RECEIVED FIREARMS The following is a list of Unclaimed / Received firearms currently in possession of the Asheville Police Department. SIL/BLK, SCCY, 9MM; BRN/BLK, H&R, 12GA; SIL/BLK, BERSA, 38; BLK, STAR, GC, 9MM; BLK, RUGER, REVOLVER, 38; BLK, RUGER, LCP 38; BLK, DIAMONDBACK, DB380, 38; BRN/BLK, S&W, SPECIAL, 38; SIL/BLK, TAURUS, MAGNUM, 357; BLK/ GRN, REMINGTON, 870 EXPRESS, 12GA; BLK, COLT, 380, 38; BLK, CZ, P-09, 9MM; BLK, GLOCK, 43, 9MM; BRN/

BLK, TRISTAR, PUMP, 12GA; BLK, HI-POINT, 45; S&W, BACK-UP, 40; US REVOLVER; DAVIS IND, D-32, 32; ESSEX, 12GA; BLK, RUGER, LC9S, 9MM; BLK/BRN, TAURUS, 85, 38; BLK, GLOCK, 30S, 45; KIMBER, MICRO CDP, 38; BLK, TAURUS, REVOLVER, 357; BLK, S&W, M&P 2.0, 40: SIL/BLK, RUGER, P89, 9MM; BLD/BRN, HY HUNTER INC, DETECTIVE, 22; BLK, TAURUS, TX, 22; BLK/BRN, COLT, NEW AGENT, 45. Anyone with a legitimate claim or interest in this property must contact the Asheville Police Department within 30 days from the date of this publication. Any items not claimed within 30 days will be disposed of in accordance with all applicable laws. For further information, or to file a claim, contact the Asheville Police Department Property & Evidence Section at 828232-4576 .

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NOW

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. 1004

ACROSS 1 Cousins of daisies 7 Longtime pugilists’ grp.

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15 It can be cured

17 Superfluous

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PUZZLE BY GARY LARSON

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14 Central Plains nation 16 Singer with the “Living Proof” farewell tour (2002-05) … as well as a “Here We Go Again” tour (2018-20)

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Donate your car.

Change a life.

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Do you have an extra car that needs a new home?

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

66 Surprise element in the “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” trilogy

22 On the record, in a way, though not on a record

46 “This Is Just to Say” by William Carlos Williams, essentially

27 In good shape

26 Plus

67 Apt name for a karaoke star

29 Block ending

50 Cast aspersions on

28 Material for a loom

68 Relative of a hogshead

30 Go to ___

69 Much-studied micro-organism

19 Story or mosaic piece 20 What to compile before travel or a “choice” that’s not really a choice 23 Bench press muscle, informally 24 German refusal 25 Feel bad

31 Home to Iolani Palace 35 Archaeological projects 37 Tickle pink or top-notch

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GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG •

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...to 51 local nonprofits & get stuff back!

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70 Fly in the face, e.g.

71 Bond, for one 72 Abate

31 Make a choice 32 Singer Grande, to fans 33 Sensational scoring feats or sensational songs 34 Squarish?

36 Oars in pairs

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52 Lofty spot for brooding 53 Bad thing to do in class 55 Picked dos 56 Stuffs or spots 57 Social group 60 Boats or bothers

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39 Nevada mining town

61 Australian export

44 Parishioner’s portion, perhaps

2 Fallen angel or luxurious fabric

41 Many a subject of the E! channel

62 Hollywood’s ___ Rachel Wood

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3 Think ____

43 Cabo cheer

42 Will supplement

47 Big Apple clothing brand

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4 Fuji fungus

48 Up to, informally

5 Like some pitches

49 Answered a charge

6 In public

51 ___ diem 53 Fa-la connection 54 Eden-to-Nod direction 58 Green land or garland 59 Dynamos or menus 63 Lines on an airline map 65 Vintage vehicle

7 “Moby-Dick” subject 8 Underlying or salad herb 9 Band aids 10 Do something 11 Lip cover or bettor’s pile 12 Free-for-all 13 At attention 21 Loud, visually

workingwheelswnc.org | 828-633-6888

51 C-shaped tool

38 Kind of soldier

40 Walks fancily or some rulers

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

The impact is real.

64 Comedy club division

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS NY TIMES PUZZLE

B O O P B A B U R I N S E O P E C P H O N Y B OW L G E N I E C O L O R L E S S T I E D O F F A S P S W E N T B Y L Y R E A L O E N O C L U E N D A G R E E N S O B S P A R I D E A S T I T O H A M S S L E E P I C E D E S C D O H F I N S T A M A L E O T O E D C E L L S E MM A D I M P L E S T E S L A F U R I O U S L Y S L O B C H I A A S K E D O L D S K E L P S A Y S O MOUNTAINX.COM

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