Mountain Xpress 12.06.23

OUR 30TH YEAR OF WEEKLY INDEPENDENT NEWS, ARTS & EVENTS FOR WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA VOL. 30 NO. 19 DEC. 6-12, 2023

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

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NEWS

SIGN OF THE TIMES Indigenous Walls Project recruits local business allies

PROBLEMATIC PROVISIONS Lawmakers add transparency shroud to state budget

14 NO AGE LIMIT Toy stores focus on nostalgia and mystery to appeal to a broader clientele

16 BOOKS ON WHEELS Asheville’s mobile bookshops bring lit to unconventional places

34 WHAT’S NEW IN FOOD American Sign Language series promotes education and empathy at Highland Brewing Co.

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38 AROUND TOWN Warren Haynes’ Christmas Jam returns for 32nd year

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LETTERS

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CARTOON: MOLTON

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CARTOON: BRENT BROWN

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NEWS

11 DEVELOPMENT ROUNDUP 12 TOURISM BEAT

22 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 26 WELLNESS 30 ARTS & CULTURE

44 CLASSIFIEDS 47 FREEWILL ASTROLOGY 47 NY TIMES CROSSWORD

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MOUNTAINX.COM

DEC. 6-12, 2023

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OPINION

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

Cut tourism promotion and reallocate funds [Regarding “‘Invest Back Into Our Community’: Local Leaders Call for TDA to Reduce Its Tourism Marketing Budget,” Nov. 22, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress:] The abundant amount of our taxes, including occupancy tax, that is being spent on promoting local tourism is having a serious negative impact on Asheville. Most residents I know don’t go downtown anymore because finding parking has become so difficult.

Traffic has increased, yet our public transportation lags behind.

In my opinion, we have maxed out our infrastructure, and it is not ethical to ignore the stress that tourism has caused. Promoting Asheville has not only attracted tourists but also panhandlers from afar who see tourist locations as a sure bet. This in turn has created an extraordinary amount of homeless people living wherever they can.

My vote would be to cut tourism promotional expenditures by 90% and reallocate those funds to improve infrastructure, deal with the homeless situation and lower the exorbitant residential property taxes. It makes no sense to be a No. 1 travel destination spot that drives up prices, therefore increasing residents’ taxes, and at the same time having insufficient infrastructure.

Don’t wait to see how the allocation formula works out; reallocate now.

— Valerie Naiman Asheville resident and business owner since 1980

Spend tourism tax money on infrastructure [Regarding “‘Invest Back Into Our Community’: Local Leaders Call for TDA to Reduce Its Tourism Marketing

less people in the downtown area panhandling and committing crimes.

Again, solving those issues would increase tourism!

I hope that our officials will realize that advertising the area is not the only way to increase tourism.

— Pat Scherer Weaverville

Use TDA budget to offset tourism’s downsides

C A RT O O N B Y R AN DY M O L T O N Budget,” Nov. 22, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress:] Yes, too much occupancy tax money is being spent on promoting local tourism (and Tourism Development Authority staff salaries!). The proceeds from the tax (75% plus) should be going toward enhancing the infrastructure that the visitors and locals use (sidewalks, crosswalks, downtown ambassador-type program); adding green space, trees, trash and recycling containers; adding affordable housing; free parking for downtown workers; supporting green efforts to reduce tourist waste (plastics, etc.).

TDA dollars should not be used for things like supporting a private company like the DeWine family and the Tourists baseball (that was plain dumb). That whole decision should have been made by the citizens during an election cycle (guessing the majority would have voted no).

— David Schumacher Weaverville

Advertising isn’t the only way to increase tourism Regarding the size and allocation of tourist money, I believe that too much money is going to promoting tourism through advertising. If the Asheville area did not appear regularly in many publications promoting the area, perhaps our local board would need to advertise.

However, in an area with many other needs, it seems only sensible to address these needs. Actually, everything that improves the area in any way makes tourists like the area more.

And, in fact, building a wonderful concert center to replace the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium would clearly be a tourist draw, so spending tourism dollars on such a center is entirely appropriate.

The only real complaint I have heard from visitors regards home-

[Regarding “‘Invest Back Into Our Community’: Local Leaders Call for TDA to Reduce Its Tourism Marketing Budget,” Nov. 22, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress:] I fully support the Tourism Development Authority budget being changed so that half of its current earnings serve to offset the negative impacts of tourism, funding first responders and upgrades to city services.

— Melody LeBaron Weaverville

Redirect tourism spending toward other needs [Regarding “‘Invest Back Into Our Community’: Local Leaders Call for TDA to Reduce Its Tourism Marketing Budget,” Nov. 22, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress:] Redirect Tourism Development Authority money to help with housing affordability; to offer deeply affordable child care; improve public transportation; and increase wages of workers in the tourist service industries. Oh, and some funding crumbs to the artists who are one of our primary attractions.

The TDA could sponsor (pay for) events like Caveats for Collectors (of art), hiking/biking for novice enthusiasts, mountain music, etc., which focus on “what we do well” and

$1,975 – $3,134

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

MOUNTAINX.COM

CARTOON BY BRENT BROWN could feature and hire folks in these areas to be speakers or hosts and so promote our locals individually.

I don’t think it is fair to spend TDA money on lavish travel or dinners to attract tourists.

Glad to see Sen. Julie Mayfield and others are talking about and supporting the idea of our locals and infrastructures being beneficiaries.

— Carol Anders Asheville

Trains, plazas and resilience [Regarding “‘Invest Back Into Our Community’: Local Leaders Call for TDA to Reduce Its Tourism Marketing Budget,” Nov. 22, Asheville Watchdog via Xpress:] I say we reallocate (don’t cut!)

Tourism Development Authority funds to support local needs, especially those related to tourism. If we plan well, we can achieve multiple important goals. For starters, we don’t need more parking or to attract more car usage in Asheville, though perhaps there could be more “Park & Ride” locations outside the city. I believe we need to follow the example of other cities that have responded very practically to their growth and traffic issues by making it unnecessary to

have a car — for both tourists and some locals.

That means good public transportation. It would be great to have a train system around Asheville — to and from the Asheville, Charlotte and Greenville airports going to destinations in and around Asheville — including some of the small towns nearby. I would include depots in Hendersonville, Lake Lure, Black Mountain, Candler, Canton, Waynesville, Silva, Franklin, Brevard, Cherokee, Maggie Valley, Hot Springs, Weaverville, etc., and numerous stops along the way, including “Park & Ride” locations.

A layout of trains could be augmented with vans or small buses around local areas, and with paths for bikes or scooters that people could rent (especially right downtown). Various new entrepreneurial businesses could spring up, such as retail stores and child care centers along the train and van routes.

Such a system of public transportation would serve locals, including downtown employees and those in the tourism industry, as well as attract more tourists. It would make it easy to get here and back from airports, to support our economy and to enjoy our beautiful mountains. It also would go a long way to support clean air!

With a good system of public transportation, we can focus TDA and other funds on providing a more “walkable,” people-oriented design that again would serve both locals and tourists. I’ve long envisioned the entire area around Prichard Park connecting with Pack Square Park as one large plaza. Specifically, it would be closing the roads around Prichard Park (College and Haywood streets down to the civic center) and closing Patton Avenue going up to Pack Square, possibly leaving Biltmore Avenue open to traffic, but have a large, safe area for people to cross Biltmore.

I imagine this area being like a beautiful European plaza, bustling with both locals and tourists who travel easily and safely around to various businesses and lively destination points. And those could include the Whitewater Wave in the French Broad River at Riverside Park planned to open next year or a new pickleball court along the South Slope and numerous other fun things in and around Asheville.

While implementing these ideas would be expensive at the outset, I believe that building the train system would generate tremendous funds immediately, especially those from area airports. And this could help fund the rest and much more. In the long run, I believe we would

save money and more directly create a beautiful, abundant and resilient future for tourists and locals alike.

— Gaya Erlandson Candler

Turn those fall leaves into mulch Asheville is on the map for tourists to witness the exquisite fall colors that the glorious trees so freely provide, and whichever side of town we visit in fall, the constant noise from leaf blowers quickens our visits.

When will these devices get muted?

The bright side to this colorful season is that more homeowners realize that discarding leaf litter is an ecological no-no. When fallen leaves get discarded, nutrients that trees need in following years also get removed.

Species that transfer nutrients to plants and live underneath the soil become threatened.

Leaf mulch provides a natural layer of humidity for soil creatures living under the soil. Leaf litter is the best FREE mulch available. We use the leaves to mulch our garden beds.

To learn more about a new approach to conservation, ecological landscaping, biodiversity and how to support pollinators, go to [avl.mx/d7j].

— Tricia Collins Burnsville

MOUNTAINX.COM

DEC. 6-12, 2023

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NEWS

Sign of the times

Indigenous Walls Project recruits local business allies

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN earnaudin@mountainx.com Jared Wheatley finds inspiration in some of the most unlikely places.

A dual citizen of the Cherokee Nation and the U.S., the Asheville resident was at Blue Ridge Sign Supply in early fall when he overheard an older gentlemen in front of him place an order for a “No trespassing” sign with an image of a gun on it.

Witnessing how serious the fellow customer was about the ownership of his land, Wheatley’s mind went to his own work as founder of the Indigenous Walls Project, which seeks to reclaim visibility, space and social dialogue for Indigenous artists and culture.

“I was like, ‘Hold on here. I want some signs, too,’” Wheatley says.

Store manager Kyle McClanahan, who’s helped Wheatley with various print projects, asked what he’d like on the sign. The concept was immediate, Wheatley recalls. “You are on Cherokee land,” he replied and ordered 30 copies. The exchange, he notes, visibly distressed his fellow customer.

“You could see he was real upset — like, all of the sudden, maybe he was feeling a little bit more aware about the statements he was making about his own property,” says Wheatley, who immediately saw great potential for his new signs. “When you find that inspiration, you do a little something and put it out there to the world — see what the world has to say. And people were real responsive, so then that becomes the move.”

SPREADING THE WORD(S) The fully aluminum signs are made to N.C. Department of Transportation

UNDISPUTED: Indigenous Walls Project founder Jared Wheatley stands in front of the Buncombe County Courthouse, left, and Asheville City Hall. Photo by Edwin Arnaudin specifications. Individuals or businesses that want to purchase one can send Wheatley a direct message via the Indigenous Walls Project’s Instagram account (@indigenouswallsproject) or buy directly from Horse + Hero art gallery downtown. One hundred dollars pays for two signs.

“One goes to the individual, and then one goes to the wild,” Wheatley says. “That’s what I say because we put these out in Buncombe County and anywhere from Virginia down to North Georgia and beyond.”

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Though the sign’s words came to him almost as an epiphany at Blue Ridge Sign Supply, Wheatley feels that the message is an especially powerful one because it presents an indisputable concept that crosses the political divide.

“This is a benign sign,” Wheatley says. “You could consider it almost a baby land acknowledgment. Just recognition — nothing special. No deep history, no big claims.”

Wheatley and individual donors have placed signs around town.

Several have been taken down, though he’s not sure by whom or where those signs end up. He says that’s not the case with signs placed farther out in Buncombe County away from the central business district.

“It’s almost strange: If you go to a more conservative area, you might have some kind of prejudice, some thought about what political side would be more supportive of this or that statement for sure,” Wheatley says. “But when you put it up in a more rural area, even if it’s high traffic, it stays up longer.”

While he isn’t certain why the signs have remained untouched in nonurban spots, Wheatley finds their removal in downtown Asheville

at odds with the city’s purportedly more progressive ways.

INDEPENDENT NATION Since there are no markings on the signs that are associated with the Indigenous Walls Project or Wheatley, and therefore aren’t easily restored to him, he says the signs that are taken down “are on their own path.” When the prospect is raised of speaking with local officials to ensure the signs remain up, Wheatley quickly rejects the notion.

He notes that the organization’s goals are set through its own lens and reflect what feels good to him as an activist and artist, as well as his communications with Cherokee elders and his family.

“We remain — the natives remain — whether folks really like it or recognize it or not,” Wheatley says.

“Personally, it doesn’t seem like the most relevant way, the most authentic way to approach the conversation by me needing to go somewhere and ask them, ‘Please recognize that we remain. Please help us.’”

He notes that different populations speak and communicate in dis-

tinct ways, and if everyone’s actions and words are funneled through a white bureaucratic lens, Native people aren’t “functioning to decolonize” or “functioning within our sovereign powers as individuals as Indigenous people.

“I’m Cherokee and think about the Cherokee and talk about the Cherokee,” Wheatley says. “But other Indigenous people exist within the City of Asheville. It’s an intertribal community, so there are many people not being represented or spoken for or communicated with.”

Despite the “acceptable and palatable” nature of stating that one is on Cherokee land, he says the removal of signs placed downtown suggests they’re being viewed through a politicized lens. And when such a “clean” message is taken down and others are left up, it suggests where a community’s values rest, Wheatley says.

“There’s a sign that says ‘Beer City USA’ — we’re real proud of that, but we’re less aware or less proud of our Indigeneity and our connection to the Indigenous people of this land,” Wheatley says. “There’s something in there that doesn’t seem to match up with certain calculations.”

ASHEVILLE ALLIANCE Wheatley says he’s more than happy to give signs for free to fellow Indigenous people, such as House of Black Cat Magic President Hannah Soboleski. But he’s also found community support from multiple nonnative local business owners.

“When you make a clean statement, a statement that’s impossible to debate, really, then people will find you. That’s our approach,” he says.

Among these seekers is Terra Marshall, owner of Beauty Parade salon in West Asheville. She follows the Indigenous Walls Project on Instagram, saw Wheatley’s posts about the signs and inquired about purchasing one.

But even before then, she was already thinking about Indigenous history thanks to the Emergence Magazine podcast.

Its host, Emmanuel Vaughan-Lee, opens each episode by acknowledging the Coast Miwok, on whose land he records his stories in Marin County, Calif. The statement inspired Marshall to acknowledge where her business resides.

“I am trying to build a more open and inclusive world for the world, my children and future generations,” Marshall says. “My hope is that this sign will help people acknowledge that this is Cherokee land and spark conversation.”

Marshall displays her “You Are on Cherokee Land” sign in the salon window facing Mildred Avenue, next to Gus Cutty’s “Two Queens” mural that features Dolly Parton and RuPaul. She says people frequently visit the mural, so the sign is highly visible in that spot.

Since its installation in early November, the sign has sparked conversation among Marshall and some of what she calls her “close clients.”

“We’ve had talks of the atrocities our ancestors have committed and

how we must acknowledge them — how we move forward in teaching our children, friends and neighbors the truth,” she says. “We can’t continue to be fed what we were taught in schools.”

A similar desire for community engagement prompted Emily Quinn, owner of rEvolve Mercantile, to purchase a sign and place it in the front window of her West Asheville used clothing store.

“We’ve had a few discussions with customers about it,” she says. “They usually say they had no idea this land was originally Cherokee land, and then it brings forth the conversation about how the land was ‘secured’ by white settlers.”

Quinn met Wheatley through his mural work and sees the sign as a logical extension of the messages presented through the influx of Indigenous artwork around town.

“I think it’s a cool way to educate and/or remind people that the land they’re on was unjustifiably stolen from Native Americans,” she says. “And that history has tried to smother out the existence of Native Americans, like the Cherokee Tribe, but we have opportunities like this one to uncover the history.”

Along with spreading awareness among Asheville residents, Quinn and Marshall also see great potential in educating the city’s numerous tourists about the area’s roots. In doing so, they additionally hope to foster an enhanced appreciation of why the place these folks are drawn to has such an enduring appeal.

“This land once belonged to a tribe of people who honored its amazing, beautiful nature,” Marshall says. “My goal in supporting this project … is to spark conversation and acknowledge the mistakes of this country’s past.

To bring things to light, heal from it and move forward together as a new stronger united generation.”

Wheatley appreciates the support and says that such partnerships give the Indigenous community a stable foundation and “a perceived authority.”

“When those businesses engage us, it states to [City] Council members, it states to the business community, it states to whoever goes in and out of those businesses that they believe in Indigeneity,” he says. “They respect our relationship with this land. They understand that we are the stewards of this land. And that’s what this sign’s really about.”

To learn more, visit avl.mx/bjd. X

MOUNTAINX.COM

DEC. 6-12, 2023

7

NEWS

Problematic provisions Lawmakers add transparency shroud to state budget

BY CHASE DAVIS cdavis@mountainx.com Local officials are still reeling over a little paragraph in the state’s 625page budget in which lawmakers exempted themselves from public record requirements.

A single paragraph gives legislators in the N.C. General Assembly the power to determine what qualifies as a public record and what does not.

Section 27.7 of the 2023 Appropriations Act says that current and former legislators “shall not be required to reveal or to consent to reveal any document, supporting document, drafting request, or information request made or received by that legislator while a legislator.”

Under the state’s previous law, legislators were custodians of their own records but had to file a specific exemption to withhold records.

State Sen. Warren Daniel, a Republican whose district covers the eastern portion of Buncombe County, says the provision will keep the legislature efficient and save the state money. “We receive very expansive requests where people may ask for every correspondence for every member of the General Assembly,” Daniel says. “These kinds of requests don’t help increase transparency; they are just expensive and slow down the legislative process.”

In addition to being able to withhold public records, another provision in the budget allows legislators to determine “whether a record is a public record.” Furthermore, if a document is not deemed public by the legislator, they can legally decide

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

to “retain, destroy, sell, loan, or otherwise dispose of” the record.

“While the whole provision is problematic, I find it particularly concerning that lawmakers have been given the authority to sell their records,” says state Sen. Julie Mayfield of Asheville, a Democrat. “Is there a more effective way to enable misinformation than allowing a politician to sell records to anyone willing to cover up their mistakes and misdeeds?”

Daniel didn’t respond to requests seeking comment about the potential of selling records under this provision.

The provision received widespread criticism from state Democrats, media agencies and open-government advocates. In a joint letter to the N.C. General Assembly, the N.C. Press Association, the N.C. Association of Broadcasters, the Carolina Journal, Radio One Charlotte and others outlined objections and called on lawmakers to rescind the language.

“The newly introduced amendment grants custodians the power to determine what constitutes a public record and allows for the destruction of records that could otherwise be essential for transparency and accountability,” the letter reads.

“This change effectively creates a situation in which state lawmakers, who are also considered custodians of their records, could exempt themselves from public records law, denying citizens their right to scrutinize their government’s actions.”

North Carolina law allows the public to obtain a variety of public records from the state government and its elected officials. According to the N.C. Public Records Act, in the General Statutes Chapter 132, public records

MOUNTAINX.COM

‘PROTECT OUR DEMOCRACY’: State Rep. Caleb Rudow of Buncombe County spoke in front of the N.C General Assembly about his thoughts on the new public record law and redistricting plans. Screenshot courtesy of the State of North Carolina include “all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, electronic data processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material.”

Supporters of the provision have said that the protections from public records requirements allow legislators to deliberate freely about policy concerns and upcoming bills. However, legislator’s communications with staff during the bill drafting process is already protected under previous public record law.

“North Carolina law already makes legislators’ communications with staff related to legislative drafting and information requests confidential,” says Brooks Fuller, director of the N.C. Open Government Coalition.

“Lawmakers have immense freedom to engage in private deliberations.

What they didn’t have, until now, was permission to hide the entire scope of their public work from the public they serve.”

“North Carolina public records, by definition, are the property of the people,” says state Rep. Caleb Rudow, a Buncombe County Democrat. “Public officials do not

get to deny citizens their property because they think it is too cumbersome or inconvenient for them.”

REDISTRICTING WITHOUT TRANSPARENCY Another controversial provision tucked into the budget overturns state law that made legislators’ redistricting communications and drafting documents part of the public record once new electoral maps became law.

“North Carolina has been at the center of costly, seemingly unceasing litigation challenging Republican-drawn legislative maps and voter ID laws,” says Fuller. “Under the newly passed legislation, the public will be shut out of that process unless lawmakers choose to share records or unless information is uncovered through reporting or litigation.”

While the state’s public records act grants broad exemptions for messages sent between lawmakers and their staff during the legislative drafting process, one statute included an exception for redistricting. “Electoral maps are the core of representative democracy. It’s critical to understand from the public’s perspective how rules related to voting and elections come into being,” says Fuller. “This was a really important carve-out, and it’s very clear from the way that it’s written that the General Assembly thought this was important to North Carolinians. Apparently that’s changed.”

Currently, North Carolina’s 14-member congressional delegation is evenly split between Democrats and Republicans. However, a new map approved by the state legislature Oct. 25 creates 10 likely Republican districts, three likely Democratic districts and one that appears to be competitive.

“North Carolina has always been a split state in terms of party lines,” says Rudow. “Now though, we have a world in which representatives get to pick their voters and whatever districts they need to win, all behind closed doors. Voters no longer have a say in who is elected because Republicans have drawn the districts in a way that exclusively favors them.

That is not how democracy is supposed to work at all.”

Under North Carolina law, the new maps aren’t subject to a veto from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.

However, many Democrats, including Rudow, have said that the new maps are likely to be the subject of lawsuits.

“Republicans have blatantly gerrymandered the state to serve their own agenda,” says Rudow. “You can be sure that a number of organizations will challenge the new maps. We have to protect our democracy, and [the new maps] go against its very nature.” X

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WINTER spirit issue

On December 13, Mountain Xpress will spotlight WNC’s richness and diversity in this special Winter Spirit Issue.

This issue is a celebration of seasonal joy, diversity, community, faith and spirituality, the metaphysical and transcendental, and recognizing the many cultures that make WNC so special. It is a wonderful opportunity to promote winter holiday events, reach out to readers about your services, mission, philosophy and share contributions to our community.

Publishes December 13th • For advertising, contact 828-251-1333 x 1 • advertise@mountainx.com

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

MOUNTAINX.COM

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N EWS

DEVELOPMENT ROUNDUP

Board of Adjustment to discuss proposed spa resort Buncombe County Two projects requiring special-use permits are on the agenda at the Buncombe County Board of Adjustment meeting at noon Wednesday, Dec. 13.

The in-person meeting will be at the Board of Commissioners Chambers, 200 College St. Information on how to attend and apply for comment can be found at avl.mx/anq. No email or voicemail comments will be accepted.

SPECIAL-USE PERMITS: Bel Air Resort SUP (99999 Major Mountain Road, Broad River Township) John Kinnaird of Brooks Engineering Associates is requesting a special-use permit to establish a Level 2 Planned Unit Development on 104.19 acres. The development will consist of 89 commercial units, of which 65 are reserved for glamping and eight are reserved for on-site employee housing. The project proposes several amenities, including spas, a pickleball court, petting zoo, Zen garden, amphitheater and a community garden area.

The applicant has also applied to extend the special-use permit through a vested-rights approval of five years.

Project documents can be found at avl.mx/d7c.

Sheehan Townhomes SUP (145 and 183 Sheehan Road, Fletcher) Warren Sugg of Asheville-based Civil Design Concepts is requesting a special-use permit to build a Level 1 Planned Unit Development on 22.23 acres. The development will consist of 131 residential units across 29 buildings. The project proposes several amenities, including a dog park, playground, centralized mail station and pedestrian paths.

Project documents can be found at avl.mx/d4b.

City of Asheville The public will be able to provide input on one plan review, one zoning map amendment and one zoning text amendment at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, which will be in person at City Hall’s first-floor North Conference Room at 70 Court Plaza. A meeting of the same body to review the agenda, which is open to the public but does not allow public

NEW DEVELOPMENT: The Buncombe County Board of Adjustment is set to discuss a proposed spa resort that will include 65 glamping units, a pickleball court, petting zoo, Zen garden, amphitheater and a community garden area.

Rendering courtesy of Buncombe County comment, will be at 4:30 p.m. in the fifth-floor Large Conference Room.

The Design Review Committee will meet virtually at 12:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 21, with an agenda review at 12:15 p.m. the same day.

Planning and Zoning Commission Residents can submit comments over email and voicemail until 24 hours before the meeting or provide in-person comment during the meeting itself.

Instructions on how to attend and comment, as well as the full meeting agenda, are available at avl.mx/8b6.

Project documents can be found at avl.mx/d4c.

iting a drive-thru facility north of the Towneplace Suites by Marriott.

ZONING MAP AMENDMENT:

ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT:

511 Brevard Road, Asheville Bear Creek Holdings LLC is requesting to amend the conditional zoning ordinance for property at 511 Brevard Road to make changes to site plans and project conditions. If approved, the ordinance would be changed to remove language prohib-

The zoning text amendment concerns the conditional-use permit and special-use permit review process in Chapter 7 of the Unified Development Ordinance. More information had not been provided as of press time.

SITE PLAN REVIEW: 22 Carter St., Asheville The commission will review a Level II site plan for a six-story, mixed-used building on 0.67 acres. The plans call for a Tempo by Hilton hotel with 115 rooms, 4,337 square feet of restaurant space and 1,910 square feet of retail space. The property owner is Milan CN Holdings LLC. No estimated project cost was listed.

As a Level II project, these site plans will not require City Council approval if approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Instead, it will go back to the Technical Review Committee for a final review.

— Chase Davis X

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11

N EWS

TOURISM BEAT

TDA approves $100K in funding for 2024 festivals and events The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority unanimously approved a total of $100,000 in funding for 25 local events and festivals at its Nov. 29 board meeting. According to Tiffany Thacker, director of grants for Explore Asheville, the investment in the projects will “enhance local experiences for both residents and visitors.”

“The purpose of these funds is to support and preserve the cultural identity of Buncombe County, while also fostering the creation of new festivals and cultural events,” said Thacker. “The projects that were selected, some of which have never received TDA funding before, best exemplify these goals and will have lasting impacts in our community.”

The funding for the projects comes from the TDA’s Festivals and Cultural Events Support Fund, a competitive grant program established in 2016 with the goal of providing financial support for events that serve both the residents

of and visitors to Buncombe County.

The number of grant awards is limited by available funds, with $100,000 available in the current cycle.

A committee, including representatives from the City of Asheville and Buncombe County, reviewed 36 funding requests submitted by local nonprofits, totaling $176,000. Of those, 25 events were recommended to the TDA board for consideration and approval, with investment support ranging from $1,000 to a maximum of $5,000.

Events included the well-established Asheville Celtic Festival and Blue Ridge Pride Festival, both of which received $5,000. New events, such as Groovin’ on Grovemont, a concert series sponsored by the Swannanoa Community Council, were also supported. In addition to financial support, grant recipients will receive assistance from Explore Asheville, the TDA’s marketing agency, to promote attendance.

Vic Isley, TDA president and CEO of Explore Asheville, noted that this was the first year that the lodging tax will support the grant program, enabled by a change in state law in 2022. Before fiscal year 2024, the Festival and Cultural Event Support Fund was supported through advertising sales and reservations booked on ExploreAsheville.com.

“It is really a major win for this in terms of where the funds are coming from to invest in these events,” said Isley. “Because the money now comes from lodging tax, it frees up our earned revenue and advertising revenues from ExploreAsheville.com, which will allow us to invest in workforce development here in our own community.”

While not all grant applications were accepted, BCTDA board member Matthew Lehman, also a member of the Festivals and Cultural Events selection committee, noted that the TDA offers sponsorships for events and special projects that will enhance the tourism industry.

“Some of the projects that were not approved as part of this grant request because of the change in legislation do qualify for sponsorships,” said Lehman. “Those projects, who may have used this pathway in the past to get funding, can still get funded elsewhere if they choose.”

In other news The BCTDA board also unanimously approved an operating fund budget amendment that increases its investment in paid advertising by $1.35 million. According to Dodie Stephens, vice president of marketing for Explore Asheville, this decision was made in an effort to maintain the authority’s advertising promotion schedule and reach due to rising media costs in a presidential election year.

“Political ad spending drastically raises the price of paid advertising across media platforms, and it is anticipated that the 2024 election cycle will outpace

NEW FUNDING: Vic Isley, TDA president and CEO of Explore Asheville, says that this was the first year that the visitor lodging tax will support the Festivals and Cultural Events Fund. Photo by Chase Davis the record-setting spending that we saw in 2020,” said Stephens. “If we want to maintain the intended impact of our strategic plan in this politically charged media landscape, then it is going to be necessary for us to increase our investment into paid advertisements to combat the rising costs.”

Board member Elizabeth Putnam questioned the effectiveness of tourism advertising in a politically charged landscape.

“As the political stuff starts to take over, I stop watching TV,” said Putnam. “Is there any research that tells us how effective our advertising will be in such an environment?”

Isley suggested that tourism advertising may have a stronger appeal with people looking to escape politics.

“I can tell you that in Asheville, with 95% of our visitors coming here for leisure purposes, they’re coming here to escape,” Isley said. “They’re coming here to immerse themselves in a destination and culture and experiences here. During an election period, you will see destinations like Asheville fare better than you will [Washington] D.C., as leisure travel will increase but corporate travel will start to contract as businesses wait to see what happens.”

— Chase Davis X

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FEA T U RE S

No age limit

Toy stores focus on nostalgia and mystery to appeal to a broader clientele

BY MARY WANSER mary@marywanser.com Typically, once children become teenagers, they are too cool for toys. But Sarah Evers, co-owner of Dancing Bear Toys on Kenilworth Road in East Asheville, has noticed many college-age to 30-year-olds coming in to shop this year. She believes the industry’s trending surprise packs — items that are packaged in capsules that conceal the contents upon purchase and include popular items such as glow-in-the-dark Smiskis, Smashers dinosaurs, Sonny Angel cherubs and other collector items — are luring young adults back into a business they previously thought they had outgrown: toy stores.

Others, such as Orlando Hernandez Jr., co-owner of Curio in downtown Asheville, thinks in broader terms. “Everyone loves a toy store,” he says. “Someone who is older might see something they used to play with as a child, and it takes them back to their youth.”

Lite-Brite, Spirograph and yo-yos are some of the classic, nostalgic playthings that Curio and other independent stores in town carry. As Curio’s tagline says, the shop is “for the cute and curious.” And being so has no age limit.

That trend extends to West Asheville. “We definitely serve all ages here,” says Kait Zinnecker, manager at Sparky’s Toys & Gifts on Haywood Road. What delights her most is when older people walk into Sparky’s, assume it’s only for kids and then discover games, puzzles and crafts for adults.

Meanwhile, in Hendersonville, O.P. Taylor’s on Main Street markets itself as “the coolest toy store on the planet” and carries items for newborns on up. One of its regular customers is an 80-plus-year-old who has become a Lego buff.

Legos are popular in East Asheville as well. Evers stocks kits in her shop from floor to ceiling. Inventory includes black box sets aimed at those 18 and older. The packaging, she explains, is more sophisticated, the brick counts greater and the buildable designs more intricate than classic children’s sets.

Along with an all-ages clientele, local toy shop employees and owners say the industry has plenty of other surprises.

From unusual peak seasons to unique marketing techniques, shopkeepers say in order to stay in business, they have to keep on top of trends and a whole slew of other considerations.

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

PLAYTIME: Sarah Evers, left, co-owner of Dancing Bear Toys, poses with her staff. She says most toy stores “do half their business in the fourth quarter ... particularly in December.” Photo by Thomas Calder EBB AND FLOW Just as toys aren’t only for children, they aren’t only for Christmas, either.

“In general, toy stores do half of their business in the fourth quarter ... particularly in December. That’s the industry standard,” says Evers.

And yet, these independent toy stores of Western North Carolina don’t let seasons stipulate their sales.

Year-round is toy season, they say.

“Summer is almost as busy as Christmas,” explains Katrina Butterick, an employee at O.P. Taylor’s. Along with its Hendersonville location, the shop has two additional spots in Greenville, S.C., and Brevard (its original store).

Speaking on behalf of the Hendersonville shop, Butterick attributes the bustling summertime sales to nearby camp activity.

Similarly for Sparky’s, holiday time is its No. 1 season, with summer coming in second. Third, according to Zinnecker, is Asheville’s leaf season.

The ebbs and flows in toy sales, she and others say, are related to tourism.

One way Evers balances sales throughout the year is by offering a

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birthday club that gives participants special discounts. Because there is no age limit, some members who were signed up by their parents are adults now, still in the club and signing up their own children.

Overall, for these independent toy shops, local folks come in with stable regularity. It’s tourists, though, who create the peaks in business.

ALL AROUND THE WORLD “In Asheville, people take shopping locally very serious, and they do it throughout the year. We are sustained by our locals,” Evers says.

And yet, Dancing Bear also sees visitors from all over the world.

Likewise, Zinnecker estimates that half of Sparky’s customers are tourists.

The shop serves several West Asheville families, too, with many who homeschool or unschool their children. For this reason, educational items are a large part of the inventory — children’s books, globes, flash cards and more.

Visitors are also a significant portion of O.P. Taylor’s sales. “We have a lot of people come in who have retired in the area that are our more regular

shoppers. But we also have a huge tourist presence here,” says Butterick.

Between annual visits, O.P. Taylor’s keeps in contact with regular out-oftown clients via its website, which offers online shopping.

Nowadays, shopkeepers say, a web presence is essential for any type of retail business. But the toy industry wouldn’t be as special as it is if it weren’t for having at least one physical location for customers to visit.

LOCATION AND OUTREACH “This location has been ideal,” says Evers in discussing Dancing Bear’s Kenilworth Road site.

Though the shop is not on a main road, it gets an incredible amount of street exposure from the facing gas station and an array of hotels nearby.

Advertising that it has tons of parking and is fully wheelchair-accessible helps with marketing as well.

But while ample parking may be a drawing card for some local toy stores, others, such as Curio, thrive on foot traffic. “We’re busy when Asheville is busy, and Asheville stays pretty busy,” says Hernandez.

O.P. Taylor’s in Hendersonville also relies on foot traffic. But that does not hinder visitors. Benefits to the downtown location include multiple street festivals and parades that attract crowds.

Sparky’s does most of its marketing by word-of-mouth, but many of its visitors are tourists walking along Haywood, attracted to the shop’s fun window paintings.

And despite recent reports of rising crime in Asheville, Evers at Dancing Bear says the store has seen no negative effect on sales, and she has spoken with associates who own a variety of downtown businesses who say the same thing.

Zinnecker at Sparky’s agrees. “Theft is always something to be aware of and to be cautious about,” she says, but this has not dampened business.

Nor has it dampened the spirit of those in the industry. Shopkeepers say they strive to make a positive impact on the community through neighborhood support. At Sparky’s, toys rule, and love wins: That’s its motto. Throughout the year, the store donates to local schools and families in need. And at holiday time, it partners with other organizations for toy drives.

Dancing Bear Toys also does community outreach by offering free play days throughout the year. Sometimes, a mascot comes to read a story to children and stays afterward for photos.

Once, Evers and staff turned the store into Hogwarts, the fictional school in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.

Other play days are less elaborate, such as Pokémon Trading Card Day and Yo-Yo Share-A-Trick Day. But all are free and interactive.

HAPPY VIBES ACROSS THE BOARD Just as shopping in a toy store can captivate an adult, so can working in one.

“There’s definitely a psychological impact, where people are much happier coming in and being here,” says Zinnecker, who holds two science degrees but chooses to work in the toy industry.

Evers has been in the toy business since 1991, when at 19 she began working for the original owner of Dancing Bear. Two years later, she, her sister and their parents bought the business.

Butterick has been with O.P. Taylor’s for 15 years.

Perhaps it’s the positive impact the toy industry has on the psyche that evokes the amiability among local, independent shops. Referrals to other stores are common if a product is out of stock or not carried by one store.

“We’ll even take the extra step to call those stores,” Zinnecker says, and ask if the customer’s desired toy is available there.

STUFFY TIME: Katrina Butterick, a 15-year employee of O.P. Taylor’s, says stuffed animals remain popular toys for young children. Photo by Mary Wanser In fact, O.P. Taylor’s Hendersonville site used to be Dancing Bear’s second location. When the Evers family decided to consolidate into a single Asheville store, they were happy their Hendersonville storefront, where they’d been for 25 years, was taken over by Taylor’s.

“Independently owned toy stores are, across the country, a community,” says Butterick.

TACTILE EXPERIENCE Given the popularity of online shopping, one might wonder how local, independent toy shops not only survive but thrive. How can they compete with an enterprise such as Amazon?

“If we tried to compete with Amazon, we wouldn’t have a store,” says Zinnecker.

Others in the industry agree. What local shopkeepers offer is an experience that is not an option when

Toy trends Legos are one of the two most popular toys this year, according to local shopkeepers. And this is not a new trend. For quite a few years now, Legos have been a bestseller at multiple locations.

Stuffed animals and funky plush toys in shapes such as manta rays, octopi, banana slugs and butterflies are equally popular. This trend seems to have emerged since COVID-19, say toy shop owners. Jellycat is a prominent supplier, with a line of stuffed fruits and vegetables called Amuseables.

Speed Cubes are favorites this year, too. Similar to Rubik’s Cubes, they

sitting at home, ordering online and awaiting delivery.

Hernandez says that at Curio, employees strive to help people find the perfect toy. He is not alone. Any retail store can offer purchasing. But local toy shops offer much more with in-person engagement.

Dancing Bear’s store is a former Hooters restaurant. What used to be the cocktail bar is now a toy bar, where customers can test and try out different items.

“They’d rather come to this curated environment and have tactile experiences,” Zinnecker says, noting how important these are to Sparky’s customers.

“All you can do is provide an experience. It’s about touching it, being hands-on, having smiling faces greet you and want to help you,” adds Butterick. “We’re going to wrap it for you and put a homemade bow on it. Those are the reasons people still come to toy stores.” X

invite participants to compete at solving puzzles as quickly as possible.

Fidget toys are immensely popular as well, including slime and putty.

There’s also a big kawaii trend.

In Japanese, the word means “cute” or “tiny.” Anything resembling this, even small stickers, are hot this year.

Additionally, say shop owners, Calico Critters are big sellers. These are miniature animal figurines that have homes, furniture and accessories.

Another critter-type toy that’s trending is the Bitzee — a digital, touchable, holographic, pocket-sized pet. Some project this to be the toy of Christmas 2023. It’s a technologically advanced version of the Tamagotchi, popular nearly three decades ago. X

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

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F EA TU R ES

Books on wheels Asheville’s mobile bookshops bring lit to unconventional places

BY JESSICA WAKEMAN jwakeman@mountainx.com

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Book lovers, not surprisingly, are often bookshop lovers as well. The pleasures of being surrounded by literature and recommending the right title to a reader are an attractive pull for those in the trade. And while Asheville has long been home to brick-and-mortar bookstores that are beloved spaces for readers, joining them recently are two mobile bookshops that bring the printed word to coffee shops, markets and fairs.

Lit Local Mini Bookshops is the brainchild of Jacqui Castle, an author and a former Mountain Xpress contributor. Rather than a singular space, the mobile bookshop is actually four small carts stacked with books found at four locations around Asheville: Filo Pastries & Post 70 Indulgence Bar in South Asheville, Gallivant Coffee in Woodfin, PennyCup Coffee Haw Creek and Story Parlor, an arts space in West Asheville.

Chapters Bookstop is a converted bus that owner Dawnn Sanders parks at locations around the region. Her stock of new and used books, organized by genre, lines the shelved interior.

“It feels magical when you step into a mobile bookstore,” she says. “It’s not something you see every day. It feels whimsical and sweet and unique.”

PROMOTING LOCAL AUTHORS Lit Local Mini Bookshops seeks to highlight local authors, so Castle limits inventory to authors who live in WNC.

“There’s so many writers in this town, and it just boggles my mind that I don’t feel like I’ve really scratched the surface,” she explains. She’s currently limiting each cart to one title per author because the carts are small — they’re utility carts from a Michaels craft store — and she wants everyone to be represented.

Castle hopes the region’s residents as well as visitors will delight in immersing themselves in the local literary scene.

“Tourists come here, and they love to see all the art,” Castle says. “[Writers are] part of that, and I think sometimes we don’t consider ourselves part of that.

So how do we bring [literature] to the spaces where people already are?”

The book carts display a mix of fiction and nonfiction from 35 authors who are with traditional publishing houses as well as self-published. Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, Wiley Cash, Thomas Calder (Mountain Xpress managing editor) and Alli Marshall (former Mountain Xpress arts and entertainment editor) were just a few authors whose books filled the cart at Filo.

Lit Local’s stock includes young adult novels, picture books and poetry. Each book has a Venmo code on the back, so customers can purchase directly without involving the coffeeshop staff. The carts are sponsored by local businesses, and Castle hopes that more businesses will reach out to sponsor carts in order to bring them to more locations.

DREAMS COME TRUE Chapters Bookstop opened in June, and Sanders has parked her

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that has been a New York Times bestseller. (Sanders suggests that the artful cover of Weyward, which depicts birds, beetles, bees and butterflies, attracts customers, but notes it’s a great read as well.)

Sanders bulk orders used books on sites like eBay and sorts through them to find what is sellable. People also donate books for her to sell.

Used books that have been a little too “loved” are available for free in a basket on the bus, and they’ve been popular with customers.

MORE TO COME

WHEELS ON THE BUS: Chapters Bookstop is the brainchild of Dawnn Sanders, who converted a decommissioned 1989 school bus from Robbinsville into a pop-up bookstore on wheels. Photo courtesy of Sanders bright, turquoise-painted minibus at 30 events.

The book bus is a part-time job for Sanders, who works full time as a business manager. But her weekend gig hawking books is a labor of love for which she’s grateful. “For as long as I can remember I’ve had a love of books and literature and always wanted to have a bookstore,” she says. However, she assumed that opening her own bookstore might happen later in life, given the startup costs of opening a brick-and-mortar establishment.

But then she realized she didn’t have to open a brick-and-mortar. During the pandemic, Sanders says she saw an online meme that joked, “This is how you can kidnap me” alongside a picture of a van filled with books and plants. Researching how to outfit a van with bookshelves, she says she “went down a bit of a rabbit hole with mobile bookstores.” Having witnessed such enterprises while traveling in Europe, she realized there might be a market for them in WNC. The small school bus, which was built in 1989, was retired from the Robbinsville school district. Sanders bought it from a private seller who purchased it at an auction. “It’s actually never left WNC, which feels really special,” she says. “That feels meant to be.”

She and a former partner ripped up the bus’s flooring and put down new floors, assembled the shelves and painted. (The bus does not have

electricity.) Sanders’ former partner is “very handy” and completed a lot of the woodworking, she notes — but she also learned a lot of refurbishment skills via YouTube and jokes that she was going to Lowe’s three times a week at one point.

The end result is a bus with one row featuring children’s and young adult books, two walls of shelves featuring books with local authors, poetry, short stories and classics, and coffee table books, and then rear shelves with fiction and nonfiction.

Sanders says customers are charmed by the cozy atmosphere she’s created: wooden shelves, potted plants, a pale mint-green interior. In between sales, she says, “I just read — it’s perfect.”

there’s a little more thought that goes into it,” she says.

Two recent new-book sales that brought her pride were Oh My Mother! A Memoir in Nine Adventures

by Connie Wang, a memoir about a mother and daughter who travel, and Weyward by Emilia Hart, a novel

PRE-LOVED AND NEW Chapters Bookstop carries about 500 books on the bus. The sales vary, says Sanders; at some venues, she’s sold only three books, and there are others where she has sold a hundred.

Sanders buys new books directly from publishers, and she sources used books herself. Selling new books is more of a financial risk as a bookseller, she says, noting how the shop can be stuck with inventory if a title doesn’t sell. Sanders stocks only two or three copies of new books at a time, and as a result, “I get really excited when I sell a new book because

READ ’EM AND WEEP: Jacqui Castle sells books by Western North Carolina authors from Lit Local bookshops-oncarts at coffee shops around Asheville.

Customers can pay for their book over Venmo. Photo by Jessica Wakeman

Chapters Bookstop has primarily parked at markets, although Sanders has to be mindful about the venues to which she applies. Many WNC markets focus on crafts or foods, and Sanders explains that she doesn’t make any of the items she’s selling.

Her favorite location for Chapters Bookstop was The Learning Community School, a private school in Swannanoa. “I’ve never had that many kids on the bus at one time. …

The joy on their faces was so sweet,” she recalls. The school brought the bus to campus for a parents day event and families browsed together.

Sanders found the experience touching and hopes to be invited to more school events in the future.

Although Lit Local Mini Bookshops is based in coffee shops, Castle is willing to travel, too. For example, she recently appeared at a poetry and prose event and sold Lit Local inventory at Story Parlor, as well as the Read Local, Write Local fair at Black Mountain Library.

In July, Castle partnered with Gold Leaf Literary, a public relations agency that works with many local authors.

Two of their clients — Lauren Yero, who recently published Under This Forgetful Sky, and Meagan Lucas, who recently published Here in the Dark: Stories — participated in a Lit Local Mini Bookshops signing event at Filo and Gallivant. “They both sold out,” Castle says of the authors, adding that it encouraged her that customers may enjoy more book signing events.

The book signings also provided a joyful community connection for the authors and let them share their books in a celebratory setting, Castle says.

Writing is a solitary endeavor, and the self-promotion that comes with marketing one’s own project isn’t always a comfortable fit for writers, she notes.

“I’m an author myself, and sometimes launch day [when a book is published] … it’s a little anticlimactic,” Castle says with a laugh. “To be able to sit around with writers and be excited and celebrate all day, it was just so fun.” X

MOUNTAINX.COM

DEC. 6-12, 2023

17

FEA T U RE S

Street cred

Merrimon Avenue specialty shops build unique communities along the road diet

BY GREG PARLIER gparlier@mountainx.com For over a year, North Asheville drivers and bicyclists have honked their horns and rung their bells on both sides of Asheville’s great pavement debate, the Merrimon Avenue road diet.

Meanwhile, inside several specialty shops along the mile-and-a-half stretch from UNC Asheville to Beaver Lake, hawkers of shoes, homebrew equipment, crystals and haircuts continue to sell their wares and services, building community amid the slower traffic, and their opinions — like their specialties — vary widely.

Before the 2022 redesign, the northern stretch of Merrimon Avenue resembled the current southern stretch — between W.T. Weaver Boulevard and Interstate 240 — with two lanes of traffic in each direction, separated only by two yellow painted lines. Then, fueled in part by the City of Asheville’s comprehensive plan goal of making city streets “more walkable, comfortable and connected,” the N.C. Department of Transportation converted the more northern stretch to a “4-3 concept,” with a center turn lane and one lane of traffic and a bike lane in each direction.

Drivers and some business owners have complained extensively on social media and at City Council meetings about the change over the last year, saying traffic has slowed and more people are avoiding the thoroughfare, dissuading potential customers. Some business owners even started a petition drive to revert the road to its former alignment.

The City of Asheville and NCDOT agree that the project was complete as of July, including finalizing the timing of traffic lights along Merrimon, says city spokesperson Kim Miller.

“The traffic signals are in their normalized patterns — which lanes and directions have green, yellow, red and the approximate timing of each cycle — and have been for some time,” says David Uchiyama, spokesperson for NCDOT. “During the winter, we will focus on signal timing optimization for the Merrimon corridor, so drivers may notice some small incremental

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

popular downtown Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving Day. On the day Xpress visited the store, the phone rang incessantly, with customers from all over the region asking questions about the upcoming holiday run.

The store even has its own running team, which anyone can join. Members must wear a store-branded shirt in a couple of races a year and volunteer for a certain number of races or greenway cleanups yearly, and they get free shoes from the store, Waites says.

“It’s a great way to create community, represent the store, bring people together and give back to races and the greenways we love running on,” she says of the running team incentive program.

That community helped keep Jus’ Running’s business up while road construction created a bit of chaos for a period late last year, Waites says.

After construction was completed, she says, business went back to normal, and the store rarely gets complaints from customers about the road creating difficulty getting there.

Because of Jus’ Running’s position close to two traffic lights in quick succession to the south, customers wind up taking multiple rights and driving through the neighborhood behind the store during heavily congested parts of the day, she notes.

But overall, Waites says the road diet hasn’t had much of an impact on the store, and she estimates there’s been a slight uptick in bicyclists riding by the store, some stopping in for sports nutrition.

WITCHY WOMAN

BIKE TOUR: Xpress set out to test the new Merrimon Avenue bike lanes and hear opinions of their installation from specialty shop owners along North Asheville’s commercial corridor. Photo by Greg Parlier improvements throughout the optimization process.”

The city and NCDOT are working to set up an initial meeting to review crash data in the coming weeks, Uchiyama adds.

On a late November afternoon bike tour of the road, an Xpress reporter took a wobbly Schwinn Sidewinder bike north to hear opinions from all over the road — from frustration to

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indifference to disappointment — in stores of varying specialties.

RUNNIN’ DOWN A DREAM Jus’ Running has been selling running shoes, gear and sports nutrition products in North Asheville since 1998.

But more than just preparing people for runs, the shopkeepers run with them, says store manager Savanna Waites.

Since he bought Jus’ Running in 2002, owner Norman Blair has hosted free track workouts every Tuesday at the store and is a major supporter of the local running community at large, Waites says.

Additionally, Jus’ Running hosts a Wednesday pub run in West Asheville and three races a year, including the

A quarter of a mile up the road, Raven and Crone manager Jess Amarantes is creating a different kind of community, regardless of the atmosphere on the asphalt.

In business for nine years, the Pagan supply store moved from a location closer to downtown to its current spot in the Merrimon Square shopping center near CVS about a year and a half ago.

Amarantes says the neighborhood has been great to them, but their customer base comes from all over, including across state lines, in part because of their unique offerings.

Raven and Crone sells crystals, candles, incense, oils, oracle and tarot decks, locally made art, Pagan literature and just about anything a local witch could need.

Above all, though, Amarantes says, the store offers a place of belonging and answers to questions that can be hard to ask.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 20

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

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FEA T U RE S “Community is a big deal here,” she says. “For me personally, I feel like it’s so hard to openly be in any of these practices in the South at times.

We try very hard whether you come in and you know everything or you come in and you know nothing, we treat you exactly the same. We want you to come in and feel comfortable being able to talk to any of us.

Every staff member has a specialty, and no matter what a customer’s question or situation may be, from personal spiritual practice to Pagan history to a question about sensing an unseen deity at home, there is someone at Raven and Crone who can help, she says.

The store hosts events for local artists, book clubs, book readings for children and other gatherings throughout the month. There is a ”healer“ on-site almost every day, offering services like tarot readings or reiki sessions, Amarantes says.

“It’s a big deal for people to come in and ask if we can help,” she says. “We pride ourselves on being here to help as many people as we can, no matter their background.”

As far as the impact of the road diet on business is concerned, Amarantes shrugs it off as basically irrelevant.

“Sometimes it’s supereasy to get in here, and sometimes you have to sit there for a minute because there’s a ton of traffic. It’s a road.”

BICYCLE RACE Predictably, opinions on the new bike lanes are well-formed less than half a mile further north at Gravelo Workshop, purveyors of high-end bikes and coffee drinks.

Owner Matthew Ball has been selling and fixing gravel bikes here for less than two years and says the neighborhood has embraced his niche addition to what he calls Asheville’s “bike corridor.”

Less than two miles separates Youngblood Bicycles near Hillside Street and the Asheville Bicycle Co. just south of Beaver Lake, but Ball says his coffee shop vibe and gravel bike specialty have fit in well wedged between the two longer-term neighbors.

At Gravelo, there will be no pushy sales pitches, and Ball instead invites anyone to come in, grab a coffee and get some work done between talking bikes or catch a bike race on television from the store’s couch.

Ball uses that laid-back atmosphere and a weekly group bike ride to enhance the North Asheville cycling community, which he says was already sizable when the store opened in the neighborhood.

That community, like Ball himself, strongly supports the road diet, he says.

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

KEEP RIDING: Gravelo Workshop serves espresso and coffee drinks in a laidback atmosphere while employees work on bikes and build custom fits for customers. Pictured, from left, are Samuel Cherrier-Vickers, service manager; Matt Ball, owner; and Ana Fajardo, mechanic. Photo by Greg Parlier “Most people are happy to see the traffic slow down,” he says. “I think it’s great. I just wish they’d slow down even more.”

Ball suggests the NCDOT install dividers between the bike and car lanes to further distinguish the two because he sees many cars using the bike lanes and larger-than-average shoulder in front of his store as a second car lane during rush hours.

As it currently stands, Ball says, many cyclists still avoid Merrimon Avenue because the traffic patterns are unpredictable and unsafe.

Instead, many use the parallel Kimberly Avenue, but they might use Merrimon for convenience if it was safer than it is now, he says.

Even still, he says he sees “significantly more” bicyclists and pedestrians using Merrimon than before the road construction.

“It’s a definite improvement.”

ALMOST CUT MY HAIR A stone’s throw farther north, at Asheville Barber Co., the opin-

SEASON OF THE WITCH: Pagan supply store Raven and Crone offers a sizable library of Pagan history and magic literature for purchase and in-store perusing in its North Asheville store. Photo by Greg Parlier

MOUNTAINX.COM

ions veer sharply from the bike shop’s optimism.

Upon the mention of the road diet, Tedd Clevenger, who owns nearby Asheville Brewers Supply and happened to be getting his hair cut during Xpress’ visit, jumped at the opportunity to vent.

“People have to break the law every single day when they pull into my business,” he says, referencing northbound traffic turning left through a stream of cars.

Turning left out of his business can be extremely difficult at times, he adds. Many choose to use back roads instead of Merrimon, further adding to neighborhood traffic.

Clevenger says he had one customer so frustrated by the road change that he pledged to never come back and purchase his homebrew supplies online instead. So far, he’s kept that pledge, Clevenger says.

For Tyler LaCosse, owner of Asheville Barber Co., the change has led to about half his clients being routinely five-10 minutes late to appointments, he says. And no matter the time of day, he hears complaints about the change, he says, while acknowledging that barbers are known for providing unpaid therapy services for those who occupy their chairs.

Everyone complains, but right now, they’re complaining about traffic, he says.

Further, Clevenger, who says he offers shop benefits to bicyclists, argues Kimberly Avenue is a safer alternative for those on two wheels.

Delivery trucks that used to block one lane of traffic now clog bike lanes and part of the only car lane going in a particular direction, causing more issues, Clevenger argues. And LaCosse says trash day can also cause more congestion than previously.

“I’ve not seen a parade of bikes out here. Cars are out here using the bike lane as a turn lane, going 45 [mph],” LaCosse adds. “We’re on borrowed time. It’s less safe. There’s the same amount of cars, using less travel lanes, which puts cyclists in jeopardy.”

LaCosse says he also sees cars driving up to a mile or more in the middle turn lane, adding to the chaos for those attempting a left turn.

“It wasn’t broken; now it’s weird,” he says. “Now people are speeding on Kimberly.”

All that being said, business is so good the barbershop has added a fifth chair to replace the old keg cooler, instead selling canned beer out of a red refrigerator.

The conversation — and laughter — in the shop is as robust as ever.

Back out on the road, nearing 5 p.m., car traffic is flowing, albeit slowly. The bike lane is wide open, but the Schwinn only goes so fast. X

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR DEC. 6 - DEC. 14, 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  Feature, page 32-33  More info, page 34  More info, page 38-39 WELLNESS Tai Chi for Balance A gentle Tai Chi exercise class to help improve balance, mobility, and quality of life. All ages are welcome.

WE (12/6, 13), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 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 (12/6, 13), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave 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 (12/6, 13), noon, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Tai Chi Fan This class helps build balance and whole body awareness. All ages and ability levels welcome. Fans will be provided.

WE (12/6, 13), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Nia Dance Fitness A sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts.

TH (12/7, 14), 9:30am TU (12/12), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Tai Chi for Beginners A class for anyone interested in Tai Chi and building balance, whole body awareness and other health benefits.

TH (12/7, 14), MO (12/11), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

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Seeds of Spirit A weekly community meditation and healing circle. Each week will bring energy and intention to our inner terrain and illuminating new pathways of expansion and purpose. Register at avl.mx/d1f.

TH (12/7), 7pm, Online Qigong for Health A part of traditional Chinese medicine that involves using exercises to optimize energy within the body, mind and spirit.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), TU (12/12), 11am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

A CHRISTMAS STORY OR TWO: Hart Theatre launches its new production, My Favorite Christmas, on Friday, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m. in Waynesville. The show offers an original collection of stories, plus holiday musical favorites and dance numbers aimed at bringing on the holiday cheer through Dec.17. Photo courtesy of Hart Theatre ment and connection with like-minded women.

SU (12/10), 9:30am, Dunn's Rock Community Center, 461 Connestee Rd, Brevard

Morning Meditation Everyone is most welcome to join the sit; however no meditation instructions are provided.

FR (12/8), TU (12/12), 7:15am, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Winter Flow w/Jamie Knox Levels 1+ heat increasing flow with restorative bonds designed to warm the body, calm anxiety, and release excess heat built over the summer.

SU (12/10), 10:30am, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd

Therapeutic Slow Flow Yoga A blend of meditation, breathing and movement. All bodies, genders, and identities welcome. Bring your own mat.

SA (12/9), 10am, Mount Inspiration Apparel, 444 Haywood Rd, Ste 103

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 (12/10), 1:30pm, W Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd

Magnetic Minds: Depression & Bipolar Support Group A free weekly peer-led meeting for those living with depression, bipolar, and related mental health challenges. Email depressionbipolarasheville@gmail.com or call or text (828) 367-7660 for more info.

SA (12/9), 2pm, 1316 Ste C Parkwood 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 (12/11), 9:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Yoga for Everyone A free-in person yoga class for all ages and abilities that is led by registered yoga instructor Mandy. Bring your own mat, water bottle and mask. Registration required.

SA (12/9), 9:30am, Black Mountain Presbyterian, 117 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Wild Souls Authentic Movement Class w/ Renee Trudeau Enjoy release, move-

DEC. 6-12, 2023

Mettā Meditation In-person guided meditation focused on benevolence & loving-kindness. This event is free to attend.

Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome.

MO (12/11), 7pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Zumba Free zumba class; Registration not needed.

TU (12/12), 6:30pm, St. James Episcopal Church, 424 W State St, Black Mountain

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Free 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 (12/13), 11:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Dharma & Discuss People coming together in friendship to meditate, learn and discuss the Dharma.

Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome.

TH (12/14), 7pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

ART 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 collage. 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

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 as professional artists.

Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am.

Exhibition through Dec. 8.

WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee 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 June 28, 2024 WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee Vessels of Merriment 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. Gallery open Monday through Sunday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 31.

Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd 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 Psychedelic Country 2: Rock & Roll Art Exhibit An opening reception featuring a wide range of psychedelic styles heavily focusing on Collage Art, Gig Posters, Paintings and Photography. Local musician Eli Kahn will play 2 live sets and sweet pearl's will provide desserts.

TH (12/7), 7pm, Push Skate Shop & Gallery, 25 Patton Ave 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 Creation Class: Cardinal in the Snow All materials for the completion of a watercolor painting will be provided. Instructor Joan Doyle will lead some small exercises relevant to the painting and then jump in after a demonstration of each step.

FR (12/8), 5pm, Haywood Handmade Gallery, 86 N Main St, Waynesville Beyond the Lens: Photorealist Perspectives on Looking, Seeing & Painting This exhibition offers viewers an opportunity to explore a singular and still vigorous aspect of American photorealism. Gallery open

daily, 11am, closed on Tuesday. Exhibition through Feb. 5, 2024.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Reckoning: Adornment as Narrative An exhibition of diverse practices, anchored at three points: methods of reckoning; the function of adornment; and the fusing of personal and cultural narrative. Through material language, each artist tells the story of their identity. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 10am and Sunday, 11am.

Tyger Tyger Gallery, 191 Lyman St, Ste 144 American Art in the Atomic Age: 1940–1960 This exhibition features works created during the 1940s–1960s. Much of the art during this time expressed the uncertainty of the era, often relying on automatism and biomorphic forms. Gallery open daily, 11am, closed Tuesday. Exhibition through April 29, 2024.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Hannah Cole: A Mirror, Not a Window A collection of paintings and sculptures that turn the viewer’s attention to often overlooked aspects of our surrounding environment and reframing the very definition of representational art. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through Dec.16.

Tracey Morgan Gallery, 188 Coxe Ave Western North Carolina Glass: Selections from the Collection Western North Carolina is important in the histo-

ry 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 Creating Textures: Focus Gallery Exhibition This exhibition features the work of five Guild members: Michael Hatch, Valerie Berlage, Joseph Rhodes, Barry Rhodes, and Joanna Warren. Each artist will display their own respectable arts and crafts during this exhibition. Open daily, 10 am.

Exhibition through Feb., 2024.

Folk Art Center, MP 382, Blue Ridge Pkwy Stella Alesi: Squish This exhibition is a group of geometric, abstract oil on oil paper paintings. With the use of simple shapes and a limited color palette, these works explore the visceral experience of living at this current moment. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through Dec. 16.

Tracey Morgan Gallery, 188 Coxe Ave Paint Your Own Pottery You are invited to come paint your own ceramic bisqueware. We have holiday specific choices, as well as picture frames and jewelry boxes which make great gifts. Use rich and colorful ceramic underglazes to paint the piece.

TH (12/14), 4:30pm, Sarah Sunshine Pottery, 105 Cherry St, Black Mountain

COMMUNITY MUSIC Advent Recital Series & Lunch The recitals will last thirty minutes, and lunch will follow with a donation. Come enjoy some quiet time and hear music reflecting the season's beauty.

WE (12/6, 13), noon, Trinity Episcopal Church, 60 Church St Music to Your Ears Discussion Series: Paul McCartney & Wings Band on the Run Bill Kopp, author and music journalist is joined

by DJ Erik Mattox to discuss Paul McCartney & Wings’ iconic Band on the Run release and play key recordings from it.

WE (12/6), 7pm, Asheville Guitar Bar, 122 Riverside Dr World Music Night: New Sruti Universe A boundary-pushing band that blends the best of East and West in a mesmerizing fusion of sounds.

TH (12/7), 8pm, One World Brewing W, 520 Haywood Rd December Live Series: Jessie Meltz Meltz, on harp, will be playing a wide repertoire to provide the audience with an eclectic musical experience.

FR (12/8), 1pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Christmas Time is Here w/Asheville Jazz Orchestra An evening of big band music that will be featuring Holiday favorites. This concert is free but a love offering will be taken.

FR (12/8), 7pm,Trinity United Methodist Church, 587 Haywood Rd BRO Revels 2023 The Blue Ridge Orchestra welcomes the winter holidays with two performances featuring The Nutcracker Ste and introducing harpist Tori Parrish. The program is an eclectic mix of old

and new, familiar and surprising.

SA (12/9), SU (12/10) 3pm, Haywood Community College, 185 Freedlander Dr, Clyde The Ada Khoury Duo Ada Khoury duo will be performing their original songs. They play a large repertoire of original songs ranging from country, rock, blues, folk and jazz.

SA (12/9), 7pm, Grateful Organic Diner, 38 Bailey's Branch Rd, Marshall Donna De Lory Her music is evocative, sublime, and will have you praying one moment and up on your feet in bliss the next.

SA (12/9), 7:30pm, AyurPrana Listening Room, 312 Haywood Rd Malcolm Holcombe w/ Ed Snodderly Malcolm Holcombe crafts lyrics and melodies with literary significance.

Malcolm will be joined by a very special guest, Ed Snodderly.

SA (12/9), 8pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain 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 (12/10), 3pm, Asheville Guitar Bar, 122 Riverside Dr Christmas Concert A free concert featuring music by the chancel choir, brass and other instrumentalists that embody the heart of the Christmas season.

SU (12/10), 5pm, Asbury Memorial UMC, 171 Beaverdam Rd Free Candlelight Lessons & Carols A brass quintet will lead traditional candlelight lessons and carols modeled after the famous service at King’s College, Cambridge.

SU (12/10), 5:30pm, Trinity Episcopal Church, 60 Church St

Reuter Center Singers Seasoned seniors that study and perform classical, popular, show tunes and other favorites. Membership fees apply.

MO (12/11), 6:15pm, UNC Asheville Reuter Center, 1 University Heights Local Live Series: Jay Brown, Mark Moore & Chris Wilhelm A bi-weekly local live series featuring a variety of talented local musicians. This week welcomes Mark Moore and Chris Wilhelm.

MO (12/11), 7pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Open Folk A songwriters showcase where the audience is required to stay silent while six songwriters play three original songs each. Donations are accepted.

TU (12/12), 7pm, Funkatorium, 147 Coxe Ave Bill Kirchen's Honky Tonk Holiday Show Featuring a sleigh-full of rarely heard holiday numbers from the blues, rock ‘n’ roll and honky tonk bags and more.

TU (12/12), 8pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave December Live Series: Monique Pinelli Monique Pinelli, on violin, will be playing holiday and classical music in the exhibitions Beyond the Lens, level 1, and Intersections in American Art, level 3.

WE (12/13), 11am, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More A live, multi-sensory musical experience illuminated by thousands of candles, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in classical music.

TH (12/14), 6:45pm, AyurPrana Listening Room, 312 Haywood Rd

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 (12/6), 6:30pm, Asheville Music Hall, 31 Patton Ave Benjamin Dimmitt & Alison Nordstrom: Book Conversation Benjamin Dimmitt, author of An Unflinching Look: Elegy for Wetlands, and Alison Nordstrom, independent photography and curator will hold a conversation about the impact of our changing climate.

TH (12/7), 6pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Taking to Water Poetry Workshop Nonbinary poet Jennifer Conlon reads from their debut collection and hosts a free writing workshop with participant reading.

TH (12/7), 6pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd Poetry Open Mic Hendo A poetry-centered open mic that welcomes all kinds of performers every Thursday night.

18+ TH (12/7, 13), 7:30pm, Shakedown Lounge, 706 Seventh Ave E, Hendersonville StoryWalk: Outside In Enjoy fresh air and walking along the StoryWalk trail while reading Outside In, a mindful contemplation on the world's connectedness and the many ways nature affects our everyday lives.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), SU (12/10), MO (12/11), WE (12/13), TH (12/14), 6am, Weaver Park, 200 Murdock Ave

ture books for children are invited for Lester Laminack's presentation on some recent titles he recommends.

TU (12/12), 6pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St, Sylva Asheville Storyslam: Home Prepare a five-minute story about where the heart is. Where you’re from, your humble abode, your roots, your heritage or where your mama lives.

TH (12/14), 7:30pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

THEATER & FILM Craft in America: Visionaries Discusses the work of many weavers and artists featured in the Weaving at Black Mountain College exhibition.

WE (12/6), noon, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St Jeeves Takes a Bow The British upper crust meets the New York mob in this witty play.

Everyone’s favorite hapless hero, Bertie Wooster, embarks on an American adventure armed only with his handsome fortune, his talent for trouble, and his remarkable valet, Jeeves.

WE (12/6, 13), TH (12/7, 14), 7:30pm, FR (12/8), 2pm, NC Stage Co., 15 Stage Ln New Queer's Eve A glimpse into the struggle, absurdity, camaraderie, and joy around this holiday from a LGBTQIA+ lens. New Queer's Eve

invites audiences to share in the joys and struggles of queer life through the decades.

TH (12/7, 14), FR (12/8), SA (12/9) 7:30pm, SU (12/10), 4pm, The Magnetic Theatre, 375 Depot St Dancing with Death: The Last Great Adventure A mix of moving dramas, a lively animated film, and thought-provoking documentaries.

Following each film, an expert will lead a discussion.

FR (12/8), 2pm, Pack Memorial Library, 67 Haywood St Holiday Lights & Cozy Movie Night Take a stroll under festive lights and enjoy a movie on the big screen with light refreshments.

FR (12/8), 6pm, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts Various forms of mayhem ensues as this professional company scrambles to keep the show going and everything that could go possibly wrong does, to hilarious, ridiculous results.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), 7pm, SU (12/10), 2pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain My Favorite Christmas This original collection of stories, favorite holiday music, and dance is a perfect night of nostalgia and holiday cheer that will have you remembering this year as your “Favorite

Christmas”.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), TH (12/14), 7:30pm, SU (12/10), 2pm, Hart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville Every Christmas Story Ever Told Instead of performing Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic for the umpteenth time, three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told, plus Christmas traditions from around the world.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), 7:30pm, SU (12/10), 3pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S Washington St, Hendersonville Elf: The Musical This enchanting musical follows the journey of Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole who embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), 7:30pm, SU (12/10), 2:30pm, Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E Walnut St Music Movie Mondays: A Hard Day's Night A special screening and moderated discussion of the movie, A Hard Day's Night with Bill Kopp.

MO (12/11), 7pm, Grail Moviehouse, 17 Foundy St

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS 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 (12/6), 10am, Ace Bikes 342 Depot St 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 (12/6, 13), 6:30pm, Dr Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Center, 285 Livingston St 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 (12/6), 3pm, Black Mountain, Honeycutt St, Black Mountain Aerial Silks Foundations Learn how to properly ascend, descend, and create stunning shapes on the silks while emphasizing safety and proper form. Participants of all ages and all abilities are welcome.

WE (12/6, 13), 4pm and 5:30pm, Amethyst Realm, 244 Short Coxe Ave Candy Cane Flashlight Hunt Search for candy canes and more in the dark. Bring your own flashlight. This event is designed for teens and adults, but kids ages 10-12 are welcome with an adult.

WE (12/6), 5:30pm, Carrier Park, 220 Amboy Rd Drop-in Community Notary Service Stop by Firestorm on the first Wednesday of each month for free,

Lester Laminack: Children's Book Suggestions Teachers, parents, grandparents, and all those interested in pic-

Yoga for Longevity You can act your age or not, but you don’t have to feel your age!

Beth Molaro Registered Yoga Teacher 500 RYT 400 KYM

SpiralWayHealingArts.Com/Yoga SpiralWayHealer

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DEC. 6-12, 2023

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C OMMU N IT Y CA L E N D AR friendly, no-judgment Notary Public services.

WE (12/6), 6pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd 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 (12/7, 14), MO (12/11), TU (12/12), 4pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Holiday Card Printing w/FernQueen At this unique class, we will be focusing on relief printmaking techniques. Each student will create their own original block and print it on cards to send out as holiday gifts.

TH (12/7), 4pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr Beacon Town Square This is an opportunity for locals to learn and share about what’s happening in their communities. Attendees will have an opportunity to make announcements, requests, and offers during our Community Forum portion of the evening.

TH (12/7), 5pm, Great Wild Nowhere, 121 Riverside Dr Create your own Gingerbread House A family gingerbread house-building event with hot chocolate and cookies for the kids and a special visit from Santa Claus.

TH (12/7), 5pm, Monte Vista Hotel, 308 W State St, Black Mountain 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.

TH (12/7), 5:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

John Orr Presents: Living with Loving Kindness & Equanimity Meditation instructions will be given during a sitting, followed by a dharma talk and an opportunity to ask John questions afterwards.

Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome TH (12/7), 7pm, Quietude Micro-retreat Center, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Nerd Nite A monthly event held in 100+ cities around the world featuring fun-yet-informative presentations across a variety of subjects and drinks.

TH (12/7), 7pm, The River Arts District Brewing Co., 13 Mystery St Swing Dance Lesson & Dance Swing dancing lesson and dance, every Thursday.

TH (12/7, 14), 7pm, Alley Cat Social Club, 797 Haywood Rd WNC GEMS: Generating Empowerment through Mindful Solutions 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 (12/8), 6pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Historic Swannanoa Creek Hike Attend this strenous hike that allows participants to hike down this historic path that was once used by wagons and stagecoaches.

SA (12/9), 9am, Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, 223 W State St, Black Mountain Hemlock Hike Participants can expect to learn about hemlock ecology, the threat of the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid, and a variety of different control methods to combat the woolly adelgid.

SA (12/9), 10am, Holmes Educational State Forest, 1299 Crab Creek Rd, Hendersonville O Come Let Us Adore Him: Christmas Creches from Around the World This exhibit is an ecumenical effort to highlight the cultural diversity of each crèche on display, while honoring and celebrating the common theme that runs throughout—the birth of Jesus. See p38-39 WE (12/6, 13), TH (12/7), FR (12/8), 5pm, SA (12/9), SU (12/10), noon, First Baptist Church of Asheville, 5 Oak St

Teen Gaming Night A night of gaming for teens with Madden, 2k and more. Advance registration at avlrec. com required FR (12/8), 6:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Beginner Adult Tap Workshop This class is not for those who have never tapped before as we won’t be learning new moves, but rather refining your previously acquired skills.

SA (12/9), 1pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S Washington St, Hendersonville

Breakfast w/Santa A holiday tradition for local families, Santa hosts a special breakfast with games, crafts, and a visit from the jolly man himself.

SA (12/9), 9am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Songwriting w/Ed Snodderly This songwriting workshop will be led by seasoned veteran songwriter and perfomer Ed Snodderly.

SA (12/9), 4pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Candlelight Christmas Tours The tour is about an hour of listening to guides talk about farm history before ending with hot chocolate and cookies.

SA (12/9), 5pm, Historic Johnson Farm, 3346 Haywood Rd, Hendersonville Weekly Sunday Scrabble Club Weekly scrabble play.

All scrabble gear provided.

SU (12/10), 12:15pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Stars & Reindeer Ornament Making Learn to craft traditional star and reindeer ornaments with your family or friends. No experience necessary.

SU (12/10), 2pm, The Rabbit Hole, 9 State St Treasure Hunt: Walking Team Scavenger Hunt Use your treasure map to follow clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes on this unique scavenger hunt through Downtown Asheville. The hunt typically takes about 60 minutes to complete.

SU (12/10), 2pm, Dssolvr, 63 N Lexington Ave Free Line Dancing Lessons Free Line Dancing lessons with Jerri and the Asheville Country Western Dancers.

SU (12/10), 4pm, Shakey's, 38 N French Broad Ave, Asheville Understanding Solutions to Homelessness: Community response, Present & Future Learn more about the causes, responses, and actions that surround the homelessness issue in Asheville and the region.

MO (12/11), 10am, Stephen's Lee Community Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave WNC Sierra Club MAP Series The WNC Sierra Club launches a MAP (Music, Art and Policy) Series,

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featuring an evening of music, art and policy focused on turning inspiration into action.

MO (12/11), 6pm, Wedge Brewery at Foundation, 5 Foundy 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 (12/11), 7pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave World Tavern Poker Night A free to play poker night every Monday.

MO (12/11), 7pm, The Getaway River Bar, 790 Riverside Dr Toddler Discovery Time Crafts, games, and playtime for youngsters.

Advance registration at avlrec.com is required.

TU (12/12), 9:45am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Av 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 (12/12), 10am, West 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 baking cookies for Santa.

TU (12/12), 10am, Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd Christmas Tours Take a guided or self-guided tour of the farm decorated for the holidays. All tours include hot chocolate and cookies and a visit with the Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists.

TU (12/12), 10:30am, Historic Johnson Farm, 3346 Haywood Rd, Hendersonville Recognition Luncheon This event will be recognizing outstanding program participants, employers, workforce leaders, workforce development professionals and more.

TU (12/12), 11:30am, WNC Ag Center (Boone Building), 761 Boylston Hwy, Fletcher Holiday House Building A creative afternoon making delicious and festive edible houses.

Advance registration required.

TU (12/12), 5pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

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A Mean Girls' Night Out: Classic Christmas Choreography In this two-hour workshop you will learn the Jingle Bell Rock choreography from the

campy classic Mean Girls and enjoy a boozy (or not) holiday drink.

TU (12/12), 6pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain Tap into ASL w/Hope Free ASL classes, games, drinks and socializing. All levels welcome. See p34 TU (12/12), 6:30pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200 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 (12/13), 9:30am, Asheville Recreation Park, 65 Gashes Creek Rd 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 (12/13), 7pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Therapeutic Recreation Adult Hiking Club Participants need to pack a lunch, water bottle, and clothes comfortable to move in. Open to individuals with disabilities ages 18 and over.

TH (12/14), 9am, Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd Tot Time An adventure with art, music, or storytelling in the Museum’s interactive Art PLAYce. For children ages 0-5 years old and their families or caregivers.

TH (12/14), 11:30am, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Bowling for Adults 50+ Transportation provided from Grove St Community Center.

TH (12/14), 1pm, Sky Lanes, 1477 Patton Ave Charcuterie Workshop Create a gorgeous charcuterie arrangement that you can package up and take home or enjoy in the Tasting Room.

TH (12/14), 6:30pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

LOCAL MARKETS Handmade Holidays A market of handmade pottery and craft goods made by local artisans.

Perfect for holiday gifts or to treat yourself.

MO (11/27), 10am, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain 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 (12/6, 13), 3pm, 60 Lake Shore Dr Weaverville 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 (12/6, 13), 3pm, Smoky Park Supper Club, 350 Riverside Dr Holiday Pop Up Shop Browse over 100 vendors inside this curated Holiday pop up with local and indie craft, vintage, housewares, handmade jewelry, ceramics and more.

WE (12/6, 13), TH (12/7, 14), FR (12/8), SA (12/9), SU (12/10), MO (12/10), TU (12/12), 10am, Center for Craft, 67 Broadway St COLLECT: Designer Market Featuring gifts for the holidays by regional artists and makers not usually found in Asheville and handpicked for this event.

FR (12/8), 5pm, SA (12/9), SU (12/10) 10am, Rite of Passage, 240 Clingman Ave Ext Holiday Sip & Shop Visitors can view artist demonstrations and enjoy complimentary wine and warm cider.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), 11am, Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd 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 (12/9), 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 (12/9), 9am, 52 N Market St Holiday Market Marketgoers will find their favorite regular season vendors from Hendersonville Farmers Market offering seasonal food products, baked goods, and more. There will also be live music and kids’ activities.

SA (12/9), 9am, Hendersonville Farmers Market, 650 Maple St, Hendersonville

Holiday Seconds Sale Browse beautiful heirloom pieces, holiday gifts, and home decor during this annual event. A variety of gift items will be available including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, apparel, paper, glass and wood.

SA (12/9), 10am, Folk Art Center, MP 382, Blue Ridge Pkwy 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 (12/10), 8am, 570 Brevard Rd Holiday Market Grab a drink and shop great vintage, local crafts, antiques and more.

SU (12/10), 11am, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd Refraction Holiday Art Market A curated art market dedicated to the vibrant artistic energy that Asheville’s River Arts District was created from. This market will take showcase highly skilled artists.

SU (12/10), noon, The Wedge at Foundation, 5 Foundy St Golden Hour Market Series A monthly market series bringing high-quality produce & artisan-made goods to Black Mountain, Swannanoa, East Asheville and beyond.

TH (12/14), 4pm, Oak and Grist Distilling Co., 1556 Grovestone Rd, Black Mountain

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS 3rd Annual Mountain Community Career & Resource Expo A full range or resources, employment, educational and assistance opportunities available on-site.

WE (12/6), 9am, Harrah's Cherokee Casino, 777 Casino Dr Cherokee Christmas Tours Take a guided or self-guided tour of the farm decorated for the holidays. All tours include hot chocolate and cookies and a visit with the Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists.

WE (12/6, 13), TH (12/7, 14), FR (12/8), MO (12/11), TU (12/12), 10:30am, Historic Johnson Farm, 3346 Haywood Rd, Hendersonville Santa Paws Santa will be taking pictures with pets, kids and families in order to raise money for the pets in need in Buncombe County.

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WE (12/6), 5pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200 Miracle at Maquee A holiday dance party with DJ Ganymede, a complimentary ornament decorating station, ugly Christmas sweater contest and appearance by "Bad Santa".

TH (12/7), 6pm, Marquee Asheville, 36 Foundy St The Ballet Conservatory of Asheville Presents: The Nutcracker A magically festive, fulllength version of The Nutcracker featuring the Ballet Conservatory of Asheville’s celebrated pre-professional dancers.

FR (12/8), 7:30pm, SA (12/9), 3pm, WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee MAGMA: Land of The Sky Gem Show A Holiday-themed gem and mineral show with over 25 vendors offering the finest gems, minerals, fossils, hand crafted jewelry and all sorts of other treasures from the earth. Free admission and open to the public.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), 9am, SU (12/10), 10am, Land of Sky Shrine Club, 39 Spring Cove Rd, Swannanoa Santa Tour 2023 Santa Claus will be bringing the Holiday cheer to boys and girls of Mills River on a big red firetruck. Santa’s helpers will be on hand to give out candy canes to children.

SA (12/9), 9am, Multiple Locations - Mills River Holiday Artisan Market Browse 15 local vendors featuring mittens, hats, scarves, wall hangings, framed weavings, totes, purses and more.

SA (12/9), 10am, Local Cloth, 408 Depot St, Ste 100 Holly Jolly Christmas Market First annual Holly Jolly Christmas market with local artisans and vendors showcasing their unique, handcrafted gifts and festive wares.

SA (12/9), 10am, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam By Day Enjoy a festive beverage while enjoying a legendary holiday jam session with singer and songwriters. See p32 SA (12/9), 11am, Jack Of The Wood Pub, 95 Patton Av Annual Christmas Market Annual Christmas market featuring local makers, hot mulled wine, special drinks,

festive photo booth and more.

SA (12/9), noon, Lookout Brewing Co., 103 S Ridgeway Ave, Black Mountain Santa Meet & Greet Bring the whole family for an opportunity to grab your family holiday photos with Santa on his big red tractor.

SA (12/9), noon, Grange by Foothills, 120 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain 25th Montford Holiday Tour of Homes Embark on a self-guided tour through a curated selection of stunning homes, marvel at the intricate details, elegant designs, and cozy atmospheres that make this neighborhood so unique.

SA (12/9), 1pm, Montford Neighborhood Asheville Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker A full-length classical holiday tradition, with stars, story, and sugarplums. Clara’s magical journey to the Lands of Snow and Sweets featuring the traditional Tchaikovsky score is a favorite holiday family tradition.

FR (12/8), SA (12/9), 7:30pm, SU (12/10), 2:30pm, Wortham Center For The Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave Blue Ridge Orchestra: Unwrapping Holiday Favorites A Holiday-themed concert featuring Madatian, Rigby’s Escape for flute, clarinet and string orchestra, selections by the Walker Family Band, as well movements from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite.

SA (12/9), 3pm, Hemlock Auditorium at Haywood Community College, 185 Freelander Dr, Clyde First Annual Village Nights Fresh Fraser Fir trees, wreaths, garland and a bow and ribbon bar will be featured along with tasty treats, hot cocoa and reindeer games for the kids.

SA (12/9), 5pm, Johnson Family Farm, 1202 Kanuga Rd, Hendersonville Holiday Jam for Toys for Tots w/Ross Osteen & Friends An artist showcase featuring The Ross Osteen Band, Freeway Jubilee & Andrew Thelston Band. This Holiday jam will benefit Toys for Tots.

SA (12/9), 7pm, Oklawaha Brewing Co., 147 1st Ave E, Hendersonville Mountain Fly Outfitters Celebration and Fundraiser With free hot chocolate and live music from members of Empire Strikes Brass and Red Clay Revival. Donations accepted for Canton All

Abilities Playground.

TH (12/7), 2-6pm, Mountain Fly Outfitters, 18C Church St, Canton Free Santa Photos Free photos with Santa at the food court. Visitors will receive one 4” by 6” photo and digital download of a single image from TapSnap Phototainment.

SU (12/10), Asheville Outlets, 800 Brevard Rd Day of Rock Toy Fest & All-Star Jam The regions best rock bands are teaming up to raise money and brighten the holidays for children in need.

Suggested donation of unwrapped toy or $10 will be accepted.

SU (12/10), 1pm, Blue Ghost Brewing Co., 125 Underwood Road.

Fletcher Big Foot Hot Dog Holiday Extravaganza A hot dog holiday party with bigfoot longs. Free hot dogs while supplies last, karaoke and pics with Santa Squatch.

MO (12/11), 6pm, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd Open Hearts Talent Show Whether you're a fan of heart-stirring vocal performances, mesmerizing dance moves, or good old fashioned rock n' roll, the 2023 Talent Show has something for everyone.

TH (12/14), 5pm, Asheville Masonic Temple, 80 Broadway

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING AMS Silent Auction A fun-filled event where you can bid on a wide variety of items, all while supporting Asheville Music School.

TH (12/7), 5:30pm, Archetype Tap Lounge & Venue, 174 Broadway St One for the Kids: Toys for Tots Show Performances by Local Rippers, The Deathbots, Player vs Player and the Ruff'tons.

Bring an unwrapped toy or donate $10, all proceeds will benefit Beloved Asheville.

TH (12/7), 7pm, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd Awakening of Turtle Island: A Benefit for Indigenous Artwork This award-winning touring photography exhibit focuses on southeastern native people. White Horse is raising money for Leaf to host this exhibit with a silent auction, performers and dancing.

TH (12/7), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

American Red Cross Mobile Blood Drive Asheville Outlets is teaming with the American Red Cross to host a mobile blood drive in the parking lot located behind the food court.

Donors are asked to register in advance by visiting RedCrossBlood. org/give.

FR (12/8), 11am, Asheville Outlets, 800 Brevard Rd Ho Ho Ho Down An annual charity concert and Xmas party featuring Jaime Wyatt, SUSTO String Band, The Pink Stones and Julia Sanders. Proceeds from the evening going towards Beloved Asheville.

FR (12/8), 8pm, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave 21st Annual Xmas Party: Enter the Earth A festive celebration benefiting LEAF Global Arts featuring Sneezy and Josh Blake's Juke Box. FR (12/8), 9:30pm, Asheville Music Hall, 31 Patton Ave 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 (12/9), 11am, First Presbyterian Church Asheville, 40 Church St

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Beloved Muse A one-year anniversary celebration for Modern Muse with a show and silent auction to benefit nonprofit organization, Beloved Asheville.

SA (12/9), 6pm, Modern Muse Gallery, 191 Lyman St, Ste 110 Volunteer Day Volunteers will help with tasks in the greenhouse and nursery to help with their selective breeding program.

Volunteers will also get a tour of the facility by researcher Ben Smith and learn about their efforts to restore hemlocks.

TU (12/12), 10am, Forest Restoration Alliance, 265 Test Farm Rd, Waynesville Red Cross Blood Drive Visit redcrossblood. org to schedule an appointment ahead of time. Your donation can help save up to 2 lives.

TU (12/12), 2pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hgihway, Ste 200 It's Sweet to Save Lives: Blood Drive The Blood Connection will be hosting a blood drive at the Edward Jones offices.

Use sponsor code "10692" to make an appointment.

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Local purveyors find new ways to introduce medical mushrooms to customers

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jwakeman@mountainx.com Asheville’s wellness culture is touted nationwide for its outdoor lifestyle and fresh mountain air. But less well known are the mycological wellness opportunities — that is, medicinal mushrooms — in our refrigerators and cupboards.

Numerous shops, cafes and farms in Western North Carolina sell medicinal mushroom products, including tinctures, gummies, teas and skin care.

Some purveyors forage their own mushrooms, while others sell products with mushrooms sourced in the region.

Fungi have a long history in traditional Chinese medicine. However, not everyone automatically embraces the idea of mushrooms as medicine, and educating customers about edible mushroom varieties, their medicinal uses and safety is a big part of the job for those who sell these products. “I find it interesting that some people can get poisoned by bad chicken, and you don’t hear anything about it, but if somebody in Australia gets poisoned by a mushroom, you hear about it across the world,” says Christopher Parker, co-owner of The Forest Farmacy in Marshall.

Mushrooms also have another reputation to contend with. “The No. 1 question is ‘Are these psychedelic?’” says Taylon Breeden, co-owner of The Pot Stirred, a mushroom cafe in the River Arts District. “They aren’t psychedelic, but they are medicinal.”

Mushrooms containing psilocybin, a psychedelic, have also been used for the treatment of depression and other mental health issues, but it’s illegal to sell them.

All mushrooms are a good source of vitamins and minerals, but proponents of medicinal mushrooms cite their adaptogens in particular as beneficial.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a nonprofit academic medical center, adaptogens are “active ingredients in certain plants and mushrooms that

GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUNGI: Coffee drinks are a good way to experience the benefits of medicinal mushrooms, says The Pot Stirred co-owner Taylon Breeden. A vanilla mushroom latte is the most popular drink at her cafe. Photo by Jessica Wakeman may impact how your body deals with stress, anxiety and fatigue.”

TINCTURES AND GUMMIES Tinctures, extracts and gummies are common ways to reap the benefits of medicinal mushrooms.

“A lot of people are apprehensive of mushrooms because they think the taste is going to be weird,” says Tarleton Walmsley, co-owner of Garden Party, a West Asheville boutique for CBD and cannabis-adjacent products. She says that hasn’t been an issue with the Mushroom Magic

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tincture from Wooden Spoon Herbs, a brand she sells at her shop. It contains shiitake, maitake (also known as hen of the woods), chaga, reishi, cordyceps and lion’s mane, flavored with cinnamon bark and vanilla bean.

Garden Party also sells a Fungi Buzz gummy from Nice Hemp Co., which is a cold-brew-coffee flavored gummy dusted in maple syrup. It contains ingredients from 10 types of mushrooms.

The gummy also contains delta-9 THC, which can have an intoxicating effect, and CBG, which Walmsley describes as “the mother cannabinoid — the place in the [cannabis] plant where CBD and THC are bred.”

In the past five years, Garden Party customers have primarily sought nonaddictive aids for sleep, Walmsley says. But more recently, they’re also seeking nonaddictive help with focus, which explains why interest in medicinal mushroom products has risen at the shop.

Franny’s Farmacy, which has two locations in Asheville, one in Hendersonville and one in Hickory, sells numerous medicinal mushroom gummies and extract capsules. Its Chill Out Gummies contain reishi mushrooms and L-theanine, an amino acid that supports relaxation, according to

REJUVENATING BEVERAGE

MANE MAN: Christopher Parker of The Forest Farmacy says it takes about eight weeks to make a mushroom extract. Here he holds a lion’s mane mushroom. Photo courtesy of Parker Healthline. Rise Up Gummies have chaga and lion’s mane mushrooms in them, which the website claims boost energy. Among Franny’s Farmacy’s extract capsules are one made from

lion’s mane, which the website says helps with focus, and another containing seven mushroom varieties: turkey tail, amanita, cordyceps, reishi, chaga, lion’s mane and shiitake.

Risottos, pasta sauces and veggie burgers are popular ways to enjoy mushrooms. But at The Pot Stirred, it’s possible to drink mushrooms.

The vanilla mushroom latte is a best seller, says Breeden, who recently moved the cafe from downtown Asheville to Canopy Gallery in Art Garden AVL. The beverage contains PennyCup espresso or a chaga brew, milk, simple syrup and cordyceps and lion’s mane mushrooms.

Breeden believes the latte is popular because it’s the most similar to regular coffee drinks. Coffee is a good way to normalize consuming medicinal mushrooms, she says, because java drinkers already know how caffeine feels, and the energizing effect from chaga or cordyceps could feel familiar enough to be unthreatening.

The Pot Stirred also sells Mood Boost capsules, which Breeden says are a top seller. The Mood Boost Moon Shrooms capsules contain CBG and lion’s mane, which Breeden says has personally helped her with “mental fog.”

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WELLN ESS All the mushrooms used at the cafe are locally grown or foraged, she adds, citing Blue Ridge Chaga Connection as a main supplier. They are added to beverages either dried or as tinctures in the cafe’s simple syrups.

GROW LOCAL Local interest in horticulture, growing one’s own food and nonpharmaceutical health care are surely reasons that shops selling fungi have captured a market in WNC. But ecology is another big reason: Mushrooms generally grow well in damp, humid conditions with shade or darkness, creating an abundance of product here.

“Western North Carolina, the Southern Appalachians, is alleged to be the most fungally diverse section of the entire North American continent,” explains Mike Hopping, an amateur mycologist and co-author of a book about mushroom hunting in WNC. “It depends on what county you’re in. But probably at least a couple thousand species of observable fungi — excluding yeasts and other microscopic stuff — grow right around here.”

Parker, who operates The Forest Farmacy, grows mushrooms and has been foraging for at least 20 years. He doesn’t have a brick-and-mortar shop but sells his mushrooms, tinctures and extracts at the West Asheville Tailgate Market on Tuesdays and the Asheville City Market on Saturdays.

(Individuals can forage for mushrooms for their own usage. However, a license is required in North Carolina to harvest wild mushrooms for resale at restaurants, co-ops or catering services.)

Parker’s extracts are the result of an eight-week process, first in an alcohol tincture and then in water extraction. As a mushroom grower, he’s able to produce the extracts at a volume that may not make sense for individuals. He estimates 5 or 6 pounds of dried lion’s mane mushrooms create about a gallon and a half of liquid in the double extraction process.

Through his business, Parker also teaches classes on medicinal mushrooms and their cultivation. He’s currently writing a book on medicinal mushrooms, and he promises it will contain a few recipes.

GREAT OUTDOORS: “When I started learning the medicinal benefits [of mushrooms], I figured a lot of them could help me and help people I know,” says Kevin Krzyzaniak of Blue Ridge Chaga Connection, who poses here with chanterelles.

Photo courtesy of Krzyzaniak Kevin Krzyzaniak of Blue Ridge Chaga Connection began foraging wild mushrooms upon his arrival in WNC 16 years ago. “When I started learning the medicinal benefits, I figured a lot of them could help me and help people I know,” he says.

He sells dried mushrooms and tinctures, chaga and lion’s mane tea bags, soap and a shea butter skin rub made from chaga extract. He says lion’s mane has always been popular, and currently a “brain blend” of lion’s mane, cordyceps and maitake is selling well because it encourages alertness, he says.

Krzyzaniak leads foraging hikes, and he says he forages nearly every day. “The hunt is childish fun,” he says. And he also loves educating others about mushrooms. “I love to see people lit up by their first mushroom find. … Just opening that door, that world of mushrooms, to people is fascinating.” X

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What Would You Do Without Neuropathy Pain Several years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer and underwent chemotherapy treatments. I'm now in remission and have felt blessed to be here except for so much pain. My feet and hands were constantly burning – a tingling sensation, almost like when your leg is falling asleep," shares Barbara of Biltmore Forest.

Barbara was suffering from Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy or CIPN. While chemo kills cancer cells, it also causes much bodily damage. Nerves, especially those far from the brain, are among the first to be harmed. 30-40% of cancer patients treated with chemotherapy experience peripheral neuropathy.

"Standing all day was not just a challenge, and it caused me physical agony. Keeping up with my busy schedule – forget about it. I couldn't even go for walks in my neighborhood."

Barbara, like so many others, was prescribed Gabapentin help with the pain and told there was nothing anyone could do. In Doctors’ words, 'there is no treatment for neuropathy.'

Then Barbara found Dr. Autum Kirgan, DACM, C.SMA, L.Ac of South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness. By blending the time–tested science of acupuncture with more modern medical technology, Dr. Kirgan has designed a natural solution for peripheral neuropathy.

"Acupuncture is incredible at restoring blood flow and stimulating damaged nerves, preventing them from dying off," says Dr. Kirgan. "We take our treatments a step further by integrating FSM Therapy which targets specific nerves in the body using microcurrent. FSM Therapy is like watering a plant. This treatment will stimulate the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with proper nutrients to heal and repair.

After only four weeks of treatment, Barbara is already seeing incredible improvement. "I've taken the handicap placard off my rearview mirror and I am finally back to walking my neighborhood. I can't wait to see how I feel at the end of my program! I used to think that this pain was just the price I had to pay for still being alive. Dr. Kirgan has really given me hope for a better life!"

The number of treatments needed to allow nerves to recover fully will vary from person to person and can only be estimated after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. If you or someone you love suffers from peripheral neuropathy (of any origin), call 828-575-5904 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kirgan and her South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness team.

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ARTS & CULTURE

‘Adapt or die’

Orbit DVD celebrates 20th anniversary

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN earnaudin@mountainx.com “There was an electricity in West Asheville during the ’90s and early 2000s,” says Marc McCloud. “Many people like us — young families — were buying homes at this time, and everything felt like a blank slate.

Anything was possible.”

Within that realm of possibility was the prospect of opening a video rental store. After years of wanting to be his own boss, McCloud committed to the idea in 2002, a few years after he and his family relocated from Alexander to West Asheville. He says it was seeing his new neighbors’ loyalty to small businesses that inspired him to make the leap from managing a Blockbuster Video to launching his own business.

Also propelling his decision to quit the chain was that McCloud had no say in what the store offered.

“I’d see the frustration from the customers because [Blockbuster] refused to carry a lot of the indie films and documentaries,” he says. “Those stores are meant to be Plain Jane. It’s the way corporations work.”

On Oct. 13, 2003, Orbit DVD opened in a 1,000-square-foot space on the corner of Haywood Road and Mildred Avenue, next door to In Your Ear Music Emporium. In 2006, the record store vacated its side, and McCloud took over its lease, knocking down the separating wall to form Orbit’s current 2,400-square-foot space. Four years later, he purchased the spot.

Today, McCloud is celebrating 20 years in business. Achieving this milestone, he says, has involved overcoming everything from Netflix and its instant-gratification ilk to a global health crisis.

BUILDING THE BASE Key to the business’s enduring appeal is the sense of trust that McCloud and his staff have fostered with much of their clientele. Aiding those relationships early on were what McCloud now calls “Orbit Classics” — films that developed a cultlike following among customers.

Such titles that caught fire include Stranger than Fiction, Let the Right One In and Everything Is Illuminated.

The early 2000s were also when animated Studio Ghibli titles were attracting more widespread attention.

They proved popular with Orbit customers, as did early Wes Anderson films, which McCloud notes weren’t 30

DEC. 6-12, 2023

MOVIE MEN: Orbit DVD owner Marc McCloud, right, has enjoyed a 20-year run in West Asheville thanks to such loyal customers as Mike Rangel. Photo by Edwin Arnaudin nearly as globally popular then as they are today.

“What happened was we really pushed the film on a group of people, and they, of course, raved to their friends about it,” he says. “These were absolutely humongous rentals for us — huge! People kept coming in, coming in, coming in and renting the stuff.”

Such loyalty was essential once rent and home sales in West Asheville went up and many nearby customers moved away. The area’s newcomers, says McCloud, were “not as invested in the community as the previous residents.” Nevertheless, he and his co-workers started to see an increasing number of people make regular pilgrimages to Orbit.

Mike Rangel, co-owner of Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co., was among these early customers and credits McCloud with introducing him to some of his favorite TV shows, such as “The Shield” and “The Wire.” And Orbit’s selection of comic books also

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kept him coming back to see what he could find.

“I bought two full sets of Ultraman here, which I’d been looking for for 30 years,” Rangel recalls. “Especially pre-Amazon, just seeing things like that was special.”

Granted, Rangel and McCloud had already bonded over their love of quirky movies before the latter launched Orbit. In 1999, Asheville Pizza & Brewing’s movie theater hosted a McCloud-programmed latenight screening of a 35 mm print of Peter Jackson’s Meet the Feebles.

“It’s still one of the highlights of my life because actually 100 people showed up, which is a decent crowd for the ’90s in Asheville,” McCloud says. “There’s times where you just feel the electricity, and you go, ‘OK! This is something.

We’re on to something here.’”

McCloud felt a similar energy early this October when he and Rangel collaborated for a screening of the 1988 supernatural horror film

Pumpkinhead, complete with live commentary from star Brian Bremer, at the theater.

CH-CH-CHANGES Staying afloat for 20 years hasn’t been without its challenges. But McCloud’s credo of “Adapt or die” has helped the business weather many a storm.

Orbit DVD’s launch coincided with the rise of Netflix when it was solely a DVD mail-delivery service. Its model prompted McCloud to offer a subscription plan that proved popular with customers.

“I’d never thought about it until people came in and started asking about it,” he says. “I was friends with people online that owned video stores, and they said, ‘What are you doing wasting money doing that?’ I outlasted all of them.”

In 2007, McCloud opened a second location, TV Eye Video Emporium, on Lexington Avenue. The bulk of

the store’s customers were service industry workers — many of them women — who would rent movies on their way home from a shift. Rises in crime rates and housing rental prices resulted in that customer base leaving, and McCloud closed TV Eye in 2012. Nevertheless, he says he thinks about that shop every day.

“Downtown is great. You can quote me at risk of being divorced, but I would not mind being downtown again,” McCloud says with a laugh. “Also, having more than one thing is good.”

The pivot of Netflix and other services to on-demand, at-home streaming models in 2007 offered another challenge for Orbit DVD. While many of his customers added various popular digital subscriptions to their viewing palettes, the bulk maintained the old-school, person-to-person activity of visiting a brick-and-mortar movie rental store.

“There are people who just want to watch TV or whatever new movie pops up on Netflix,” McCloud says.

“And then there are people who want to come in, browse physical media, talk to a staff member and then make an informed choice.”

But McCloud notes that Rotten Tomatoes proved an even greater obstacle than streaming, particularly in convincing millennials to take risks on films that Orbit carried.

Rather than ask a staffer’s opinion on the title, younger customers frequently looked up its aggregate score on the popular movie review site and based their decision on whether the film was deemed “Fresh” (60% or above) or “Rotten” (less than 60%).

“So many people would look up the rating and go, ‘Oh, it’s only at 40%.’ And I’m like, ‘That means 40% of people like it. That’s not a small number,’” McCloud says. “But [the younger generation] didn’t really have the video store experience as an adult where you talk to someone and just take a chance. I used to rent stuff just because of the cover — I had no idea what [the movie] was about.”

McCloud bet big on the rise in boutique DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K distributors (e.g., Arrow and The Criterion Collection), pivoted to a 100% sales model and started an online store. Physical media consumers in Asheville and around the world began expanding their collections and saved his business. McCloud says 2023 has been Orbit’s best year yet for sales.

“People think that physical media is dying — and it is if you look at the grand scope of things,” he says.

“It’s like what happened with vinyl [records] in the ’90s. The major record companies stopped making vinyl, and like smaller companies took it upon themselves to keep pushing the format forward. That’s what’s happening with movies right now.”

Though McCloud notes that the rise in collecting began before the pandemic, the reliability of physical media has become increasingly attractive as streaming services have become anything but reliable — including with their own original content. In the past year, Max (formerly HBO) removed all four seasons of its Emmy-winning series “Westworld” and such self-produced films as Robert Zemeckis’ adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Witches from its online offerings.

While both titles are available in disc form, Disney’s acclaimed limited series version of “Willow” — which was removed from Disney+ in May — has yet to be given a physical media release. Such actions give McCloud pause, and he thinks more such limitations could be on the horizon.

“Are they just going to bury [certain titles] and just not make them available? You just don’t know,” he says.

Doubling down on physical media and other prescient decisions have helped keep this purveyor of streaming alternatives around this long — to the point that McCloud is starting to see customers introduce their children to the movies they loved in their youths. He’s also looking into bringing back rentals on a small scale and, at least as long as Rangel owns Asheville Pizza & Brewing (which went on the market in October), continuing their occasional partnerships — potentially with an “Orbit Classics” series.

“If Marc had gone into ladies’ shoes and I’d opened a wine store, we would not have been where we are because it’s not a passion,” Rangel says. “I think Asheville appreciates that like nobody else. You have to be genuine about what you’re doing.” X

LAST OF A DYING BREED These challenges weren’t as kind to other Asheville movie rental businesses. Rosebud Video on Charlotte Street closed in 2016 and Flick Video Leicester shut in 2018. Other than Redbox kiosks, which specialize in new releases, and public libraries, Orbit DVD was suddenly one of the only places in town to rent movies — and that too was about to change.

In 2020, restrictions stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered nonessential businesses. Unable to attract sufficient rental numbers, MOUNTAINX.COM

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A R TS & CU LTU R E

MUSIC

A jam of a different flavor

Xmas Jam By Day spotlights local talent

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN earnaudin@mountainx.com Attending Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam can be a daunting proposition.

Whether standing on the Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville floor or seated somewhere around the arena, concertgoers are in for a long night: at least seven hours of near-constant music, typically wrapping up a little after 2 a.m.

To accommodate those who prefer less of a commitment on Saturday, Dec. 9, and further enhance the weekend overall, Jam By Day, which launched in 2007, spotlights additional artists while supporting Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity and BeLoved Asheville — the two beneficiaries of Christmas Jam. As in years past, the gathering’s three participating venues — Asheville Music Hall, The One Stop and Jack of the Wood — will feature live performances throughout the day, leading up to the main event later that evening.

“It was originally started as a way to provide more programming around the event and give it a ‘town takeover’ feel for the weekend,” says J. Bau of Hard Head Management, which produces Christmas Jam and Jam By Day. “We knew that a lot of people traveled into town and wanted to give them more entertainment than just the actual Jam event on Saturday night or the Pre-Jam on

Friday [at The Orange Peel], which is very limited capacity.”

The first year at Asheville Music Hall, back when the venue was called Stella Blue, Haynes’ band Gov’t Mule played a surprise pop-in show with the legendary keyboardist Bernie Worrell filling in for Danny Louis on keys.

Like Christmas Jam itself, the event has evolved over its run. But as those who’ve been involved since its inception can attest, the core mission has remained consistent.

FOR THOSE ABOUT TO ROCK The 2023 edition of Jam By Day features a wealth of area talent. But that wasn’t always the case.

“It used to be mostly artists from out of town,” says former local Frank Bloom.

Now living in Raleigh, the longtime Asheville-based percussionist and events manager was one of the few locals to play the inaugural Jam

By Day at Stella Blue. After his set, he helped the stage manager with some technical issues and in 2008 was brought on as an official member of the production team. Over the years, his role expanded to what he describes as a “stage/production director” capacity, booking acts that are now almost exclusively Ashevillebased artists.

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on the Jack of the Wood stage and selected groups of three or four singer-songwriters. Curating the lineup constantly proves challenging for Glass, who cites Asheville’s wealth of talent and being ”friends with every musician in town“ as major hurdles.

But the pool of gifted artists also results in the fun responsibility of pairing singer-songwriters who are complementary without being too much alike.

Sometimes that involves poaching talent from Bloom. In 2022, Glass asked her counterpart if she could ”borrow“ Ashley Heath for the Jack of the Wood event. The Black Mountain-based rocker and her band The Heathens played two previous Jam By Days at The One Stop, but she was happy to try something new.

The experience was so rewarding that Heath is participating again this year.

“I love doing the full band, high-energy stuff. But I just wanted to mix it up and meet all of the songwriters,” Heath says. “The room is packed all day long — everyone is so attentive.”

THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

CIRCLE UP: From left, Aaron “Woody” Wood, Melissa McKinney, Anya Hinkle, Hunter Begley and Eleanor Underhill perform at Jack of the Wood for Xmas Jam By Day in 2022. Photo by Leigh Glass can carry the daytime,” Bloom says of notable past Jam By Day alumni. “[Asheville Music Hall] is slammed at noon. It illustrated the power of the local scene.”

One of Bloom’s favorite Jam By Day moments involved watching The Lee Boys, The Revivalists and the Booty Band crammed into the Stella Blue green room — which he describes as being “about the size of a Subaru Outback” — while figuring out songs to team up on.

And it’s that spirit of collaboration that Andrew Scotchie plans to tap into during his set this year at The One Stop. The Asheville-based guitarist/vocalist grew up going to Christmas Jam with his father and sees Jam By Day as a nod to Christmas Jam’s humble roots.

Haynes first held the event at 45 Cherry, a small local club that’s now the site of a parking lot for AT&T employees across from the Asheville Skatepark. Dubbed “The Christmas Jam: Musician’s X-Mas Reunion,” the inaugural show took place Dec. 22, 1988.

“Jam By Day is a good sampler platter of everything that we do in this town,” Scotchie says. “Everything from bluegrass to singer-songwriter, to hard rock, funk, jazz, blues — you name it. We have it all here.”

‘EVERYONE IS SO ATTENTIVE’ Two blocks down Patton Avenue, Jack of the Wood likewise attracts a full house, albeit for an almost polar opposite experience. Kevn Kinney of Southern rock band Drivin N Cryin hosted the venue’s portion of Jam

By Day from 2007-17, during which it was unofficially known as “The Kevn Kinney Jam.” His lineups consistently featured more locals than the Stella Blue/Asheville Music Hall bill, including Asheville-based singer-songwriter Leigh Glass.

A fixture since the inaugural event, Glass recalls the first decade being almost exclusively amplified ensembles performing on the venue’s modest stage. In 2018, Kinney asked her to take over hosting duties, and before the 2019 edition, the two friends devised a way to offer a more complementary experience to the rock bands at Asheville Music Hall and The One Stop.

“We were like, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if this was a songwriter’s feature?’

Glass recalls. ”If people want to go get their faces melted, they can just walk up the street. But then they can also come to Jack in the Wood and have this experience of storytelling and songwriters going in the round.“

Inspired by The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, where artists sit in a circle and are surrounded by the audience, Glass kept the performances

LOUD AND CLEAR: Andrew Scotchie performs at The One Stop for Jam By Day in 2017. Photo by Scott Shrader

Glass’ top priority for Jam By Day is raising money for Habitat for Humanity and BeLoved Asheville.

But she also wants to encourage the most welcoming and enriching musical experience possible for attendees and artists alike.

“These songwriters are volunteering their time for this cause, which is kind of a big deal for them,” Glass says. “That’s a Saturday in December. There are usually a lot of great gigs to be had on that weekend, so there’s a lot of songwriters turning down some pay, which they do wholeheartedly.”

Participating artists also receive a ticket to Christmas Jam, which has raised more than $2.8 million for Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, building over 50 homes and helping to pay development and infrastructure costs of entire Habitat neighborhoods. Housing insecurity nonprofit BeLoved Asheville was brought on last year as an additional beneficiary.

Bloom notes that the “family reunion” aspect of seeing old friends is a big reason he keeps returning to Christmas Jam each year. However, the tangible nature of Habitat for Humanity’s work also provides assurance that all the hours of volunteering are worth the effort.

“You can drive into neighborhoods and see the houses — music built these houses,” he says. “It’s a huge testament to Warren [Haynes]. He could do this in any market, but he comes home every year.” X

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ARTS & C U L T U R E

FOOD ROUNDUP

What’s new in food American Sign Language series promotes education and empathy at Highland Brewing Co. North Carolina is home to 1.2 million adults with hearing loss, a number the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services projects to increase to 1.6 million by 2030. American Sign Language use is also on the rise to give Deaf and hard-of-hearing community members their own voice.

Earlier this year, Hope Turpin, an accomplished ASL educator, created a free event series called Tap into ASL to educate, entertain and create empathy for the growing community.

Created in conjunction with Highland Brewing Co., Turpin’s series occurs every second Tuesday of the month, with the next event taking place Dec. 12, 6:30-9 p.m.

“Ever since I moved back to Asheville after a 20-year hiatus, I’ve been wanting to continue a similar series I did in Charlotte called Wine ‘n’ Sign,” says Turpin. “With it being such a successful event, I knew I wanted to start something similar [in Asheville].”

Turpin received her master’s degree in Sign Language Education from Gallaudet University in 2021 and has previously taught at the N.C. School for the Deaf and Blue Ridge Community College while also providing private ASL instruction and tutoring. She is currently serving her second term on the N.C. Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and preparing to pursue a doctorate in Deaf Studies from Lamar University.

She says when she met Highland Brewing taproom assistant manager Annie Mullen, they “immediately connected” over their passion for ASL and decided to create a regular event to share it with the public. While predom-

inantly used by the Deaf and hard-ofhearing to communicate, ASL can also be used by parents or family members of an autistic and/or nonverbal individual. ASL is recognized by many high schools and higher education institutions as a credited world language.

All Tap into ASL classes include segments on Deaf culture and face-toface teaching of 25 ASL words along with review and feedback. Playing ASL charades also helps to engage people of all ages and backgrounds in effectively communicating without using their voices.

“Most of the folks who attend have this unique mindset and desire to learn ASL, not just for their own personal betterment but as a way to communicate with the Deaf,” says Turpin. “I hope people take away a better understanding of how Deaf culture is a big part of ASL and a newfound respect for how ASL can truly bridge the hearing and nonhearing worlds together.”

Highland Brewing Co. is at 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Suite 200. Visit avl.mx/d7a for additional information.

Champagne extravaganza Bottle Riot invites Champagne enthusiasts to attend a sparkling soirée and exclusive tasting event Wednesday, Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m., at its Champagne Extravaganza.

“This event promises to feature an array of labels, each contributing to a celebration of the artistry and craftsmanship that defines the world of

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SIGNS OF HOPE: Earlier this year, Hope Turpin, left, an accomplished ASL educator, created, in conjunction with Highland Brewing Co., a free event series called Tap into ASL. Also featured, starting left, are interpreters Kat Oviatt and Sherilyn Joy Small. Photo courtesy of Turpin Champagne,” says Bottle Riot owner Lauri Nichols. Attendees can look forward to world-renowned labels such as Louis Roederer, Bollinger, Henri Giraud Grower and JuilletLallement Special Club Grand Cru. In addition to providing tastings, Bottle Riot has partnered with multiple distributors to offer take-home bottles of rare Champagne at discounted prices. The event will also feature a theatrical demonstration of the centuries-old tradition of skillfully opening bottles using a saber.

A variety of food items will be paired with the Champagnes to highlight their tasting notes and characteristics, including freshly shucked oysters, fried chicken, and caviar and potato chips.

“The goal is to create a harmonious fusion of flavors, textures and aromas, ensuring that each bite enhances the overall enjoyment of the Champagne tasting,” says Nichols. “It’s going to be an incredible evening!”

Bottle Riot is at 37 Paynes Way. Visit avl.mx/d77 for tickets ($125 per person) and additional information.

Oskar Blues Brewery celebrates Brevard Oskar Blues Brewery hosts a “Brevardaversary” event to celebrate 11 years in business Tuesday, Dec. 12, 5 p.m., at its Brevard taproom.

Founded in 1997 by Dale Katechis in Lyons, Colo., Oskar Blues brewed the first Dale’s Pale Ale at its Brevard taproom on Dec. 12, 2012.

Brewers and brewery owners from several regional and local breweries who got their start at Oskar Blues will attend the celebration, bringing their own brews to mark the occasion. Former Oskar Blues employees

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currently representing Noblebräu Brewing, Salt Face Mule Brewing Co., Big Pillow Brewing, Silos Brewing Co., Blue Ghost Brewing Co. and Whiteside Brewing Co. will also be on hand.

“Craft beer is undergoing a lot of change in 2023, but one thing that remains as true today as it did in 2012 is the power of community,” says Oskar Blues brand manager Aaron Baker. “We’ve been lucky to have a ton of great people pour their heart and soul into brewing, canning, serving and sharing beer at Oskar Blues over the years. After attending the Brevardaversary, we hope people will feel proud of the bonds of community that we’ve forged in our industry and a pride in the place we all call home.”

Food trucks will be on-site throughout the event, and live music will begin in the taproom at 6 p.m.

Oskar Blues Brewery & Taproom is at 342 Mountain Industrial Drive, Brevard. Visit avl.mx/d7b for additional information.

TRVE Brewing heads to Asheville Denver’s TRVE Brewing Co. has officially announced plans to open its first

Asheville location in early 2024. The brewery will fill the recent vacancy left

by Eurisko Beer Co. following its closing at 255 Short Coxe Ave. in November.

“After four years of planning, hunting, navigating and jumping over our fair share of hurdles along the way, we are FINALLY proud and elated to officially announce that TRVE Brewing is coming to the South Slope of Asheville,” the brewery says in a social media announcement.

The opening of TRVE Brewing’s first out-of-state brewery and taproom in Asheville has been a poorly kept secret for some time, with the brewery nearly finalizing a different location in town before the pandemic, and yet another Asheville space near Biltmore Village falling through due to federal floodplain restrictions. When news of Eurisko’s closing reached TRVE chief operating officer and co-owner EJ Nunns, who knew Eurisko founder Zac Harris from her time in the industry, the stars aligned for a passing of the torch.

“We’re excited to be a member of yet another incredibly strong beer city,” says TRVE Brewing in the same announcement. “Asheville has impressed the hell out of us over the near decade we’ve been visiting, and we’re excited to be able to call it a new home away from home.”

TRVE Brewing’s Asheville location will retain Eurisko’s 3-vessel 15-barrel brewing system, and Harris will collaborate on one final lager with the TRVE Brewing team to be debuted at the grand opening on a date to be determined.

Follow TRVE Brewing at avl.mx/d76 for news and updates.

Homegrown gin collaboration Asheville’s Chemist Spirits and Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands have collaborated to create a new botanical gin made with native wild juniper. A portion of the proceeds from each bottle will benefit the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust, North Carolina’s oldest land trust, in its efforts to protect and conserve more than 4,000 acres across the Southern Appalachians.

“Our founder embarked on a foraging expedition in the mountains near Highlands, N.C., to handpick the treasured mountain juniper native to

Western North Carolina,” says Chemist Spirits in a social media announcement. “Every bottle weaves a tale of the rich Highlands soil.” The juniper was harvested on a protected parcel of land under the stewardship of the land trust.

Named the Old Edwards Discovery Gin, the limited-edition gin blends sweet birch bark, hemlock, pitch pine, multiflora rose and Chemist Spirits’ own sourwood honey.

Bottles of the gin are available for purchase at the Chemist Spirits Bottle Shop at 151 Coxe Ave. and exclusively available by the glass at Old Edwards Inn at 445 Main St., Highlands.

Visit avl.mx/d78 for additional information.

Chai Pani raises mental health awareness Chai Pani recently raised over $1,000 for the National Alliance on Mental Illness - Western Carolina in honor of Peter McPherson. McPherson was a Chai Pani team member who recently died by suicide.

“Our hope with this fundraiser was to shine a light on the major rise we are seeing in our communities of deaths by suicide, especially among men,” says Charlotte Stack, Chai Pani Restaurant Group chief operating officer. “We were touched by this personally with the recent death of our dear team member, Peter McPherson. Having access to consistent, quality mental health care saves lives. We will continue to use our resources to ensure our team members, and our community at large, is able to access this vital care.”

If you are struggling with your mental health or are having thoughts of suicide, call 988 for immediate help.

If you are in the Asheville area and looking to establish a relationship with a counselor, Chai Pani recommends All Souls Counseling Center, a leading nonprofit provider and community partner for quality mental health counseling, outreach and education, with a focus on those who are underinsured and uninsured in WNC. Chai Pani continues to encourage donations in memory of Peter McPherson. Visit avl.mx/d79 to donate directly to NAMI. Chai Pani is at 22 Battery Park Ave.

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Around Town Warren Haynes’ Christmas Jam returns for 32nd year Christmas Jam, a uniquely Asheville holiday tradition in its 32nd year, will kick off at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville on Saturday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m.

The marathon concert, led by hometown Grammy Award-winning musician Warren Haynes, will feature Slash and Myles Kennedy, Billy F. Gibbons, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, American Babies, Clutch and Haynes’ band Gov’t Mule, as well as surprise guests and local musicians.

The event, which has been known to run for six hours or more, will benefit Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity and BeLoved Asheville.

Haynes says that his team starts making calls to artists in the spring and that they try to include musicians who have never been involved and those who have expressed interest.

“Slash and Myles Kennedy and Billy Gibbons have all talked about coming in the past, and this is the first time it’s worked out schedule-wise, so that’s really good,” he says. “In the case of Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, we were on tour together and hanging out a lot, and I just brought it up. And he’s like, ‘Let’s do it.’

“I like a diverse lineup, to be covering as many different styles as possible. This year is pretty rock, last year was a little country-leaning. It just changes depending on who’s available.” Haynes adds that a previously unannounced performance from trio John Medeski, George Porter Jr. and Joe Russo was recently confirmed.

This year, presale tickets were sold to locals in person, after Haynes received feedback from local community members that they were being shut out due to online ticket sales.

He says it’s “an amazing feeling” to see how much the event has grown since it started in 1988. “The very first one was just local musicians jamming for the love of playing together and donating what small money we would make to charity. None of us had any idea that it would go well beyond that, especially to the level that it has.”

The Benefit Concert Volume 20, multi-CD/DVD/vinyl collection sets from the 30th annual Jam recorded live in December 2018, will be released Friday, Dec. 8. The collection features performances from Dave Grohl, Eric Church, Joe Bonamassa, Grace Potter and Mike Gordon, among many others.

“There’s something about not just the event itself but the music that gets played at Christmas Jam that is so beautiful and honest,” says Haynes.

“It’s music being made by musicians that are giving. And there’s something about that that reminds everyone of why we became musicians in the first place. And some of the best music I’ve ever heard has taken place onstage at Christmas Jam. Yeah, I really want to keep it going as long as we can.”

Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville is at 87 Haywood St. For more information, visit avl.mx/d7d.

An Appalachian Christmas Revue Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre is offering pay-what-youwish tickets for “Christmas Time’s a Comin’: An Appalachian Christmas Revue.” The annual holiday show plays Thursday, Dec. 7, and Friday, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 9, at 2 p.m., at the Owen Theatre on the campus of Mars Hill University.

The show will feature performances by members of the theater company accompanied by a live band playing holiday classics in a bluegrass style.

“We believe that live theater is a transformative experience that should be accessible to everyone,” says William Tyler Ezzell, managing artistic director, in a press release.

“Offering pay-what-you-wish tickets for our Christmas Revue [is] our way of giving back to the community and ensuring that everyone can experience the magic of the holiday season.”

Owen Theatre is at 44 College St., Mars Hill. For more information, visit avl.mx/d6v.

‘Crechefest’ returns “O Come Let Us Adore Him: Christmas Creches from Around the World” returns to First Baptist Church of Asheville from Wednesday, Dec. 6, to Wednesday, Dec. 13, after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over 250 Nativity sets from over 60 countries will be on display during the event, also known as #crechefest on social media. The free exhibit will be open to the public during

Magical Offerings December Stone: Amazonite December Herb: Peppermint

12/8: Reader: Krysta 12-7 Merry Meet & Greet 5-7

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Sat., 12/9 & Sun., 12/10 • 12-6pm 12/10: Yule Class w/ Lori Jenkins Times: 12-2pm & 3-5pm $40 • Limited Seating 12/12: NEW MOON in Sagittarius Reader: Byron 1-5 Aura Photography 1-5, $30 New Moon Meditation 6-7 FULL MOON Dec. 26th

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JAM SESSION: Last year’s Christmas Jam was the first since 2018. The annual event attracts a sellout crowd. Photo by Jay Blakesberg the week from 5-8 p.m. and on the weekend from noon-6 p.m.

The event will highlight the cultural diversity of crèches on display, while honoring the common theme of Christ’s birth.

The last event in 2019 attracted over 2000 attendees. A virtual event was held in 2020.

First Baptist Church of Asheville is at 5 Oak St. For more information, visit avl.mx/d7e.

A book on growing up in Asheville Asheville native Joseph Scotchie’s ninth book, The Asheville Connection: The Making of a Conservative, was published this past summer. It is the final in a trilogy, preceeded by 1970 and When New York Was the World.

The memoir is Scotchie’s reflections on growing up in Asheville and visiting with his grandparents in Youngstown, Ohio, in the 1960s — a period he calls “normal.” For him, normalcy meant “father-mother-children” family units, better public schools and safer streets.

“Americans were optimistic about the future — proof positive was that couples had more children and at an earlier age,” he says.

Scotchie believes busing was the reason for the middle class fleeing school districts and “ruining” public education and the two-parent family unit.

“The immigration bill of 1965, plus illegal immigration, has transformed America possibly to the point of no return,” he adds, and says that because a larger percentage of the American population was white in the ’60s, “there was not the identity crisis plaguing the country today.”

Scotchie says he was inspired to write by reading memoirs of Alfred Kazin and H.L. Mencken in college, as well as his friend Paul Gottfried’s recent book, Encounters: My Life with Nixon, Marcuse, and Other Friends and Teachers.

Scotchie currently lives in New York City but treasures his Asheville memories. “Growing up in an area that has produced so many worldclass writers ... has been an inspiration to me for decades and remains so to this day.”

For more information, visit avl.mx/d7f.

Blue Ridge Guitar Camp application deadline Applications for the third annual Blue Ridge Guitar Camp are due

Mon.- Sat. 10-8pm • Sun. 12-6pm

Monday, Jan. 1. The camp, hosted by Bryan Sutton, will take place on the campus of Brevard Music Center from Wednesday, May 29-Sunday, June 2. Instructors for this year’s camp include Chris Eldridge, Courtney Hartman, Michael Daves, Jake Workman and Charlotte Carrivick.

For more information, visit avl.mx/d7g.

— Andy Hall X

MOVIE REVIEWS DREAM SCENARIO: A hilariously nebbish Nicolas Cage plays a man who starts appearing in people’s dreams. Grade: A-minus — James Rosario and Edwin Arnaudin

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

DEC. 6-12, 2023

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CLUBLAND For questions about free listings, call 828-251-1333, opt. 4.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7

ALLEY CAT Karaoke Party, 8pm

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

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm CITIZEN VINYL Colin Cutler & Rebekah Todd (Americana, electric-folk), 6pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Saylor Brothers & Friends (jamgrass), 6:30pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Well-Crafted Music w/ Matt Smith, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Old Time Jam, 5pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Bluegrass Jam w/Derek McCoy & Friends, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8:30pm SHAKEY'S Sexy Tunes w/Ek Balam, 10pm SHILOH & GAINES Trivia Night, 7pm

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CROW & QUILL Otis Trick & the Books (rock'n'roll), 8pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Jerry's Dead (Grateful Dead & JGB Tribute), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Not Rocket Science Trivia, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7:30pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. JDunks & Probably Friends (pop, rock, folk), 7pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic, 8pm THE GREY EAGLE Robins Plemmons: Spread Eagle, 8pm

OUTSIDER BREWING Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

THE ODD Palm Ghosts, Bruschetta Delorean & Nesting Doll (dream-pop, dark-electro), 8pm

PULP Slice of Life: Comedy Open Mic & Standup Comedy, 8pm

URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Trivia Night, 6:30pm

DEC. 6-12, 2023

CITIZEN VINYL Jobi Riccio, Slow Runner & AC Sapphire (experimental, indie, folk), 6pm

ONE WORLD BREWING Almas Russ (Appalachian, folk, country), 8pm

THE RAILYARD BLACK MOUNTAIN Becki & the Dance Cards (swing, jazz), 6:30pm

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ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL League of Sound Disciples (edm, bass, reggae), 10pm

SALVAGE STATION Ariel Posen w/Brittany Kennell & Yesterday's Clothes (Americana, rock, R&B), 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE Lydia Loveless w/Reese McHenry (folk, country, punk), 8pm THE ODD Tail Light Rebellion, Acid Jo, Edward Glen, Leech & Doo Doo Brothers (folk, punk, indie-rock), 9pm THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Mr Jimmy (blues), 5pm WRONG WAY RIVER LODGE & CABINS Campfire Comedy, 7pm

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8 27 CLUB Sacrilage (dance party), 10pm ASHEVILLE GUITAR BAR Mr Jimmy's Friday Night Blues, 8pm BURGER BAR Krampus Comedy Night, 7pm CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE ASHEVILLE • Comedy at Catawba: Chanel Ali, 7pm • Bah Humbug: Crowd Work Comedy Show, 9pm CORK & KEG The Penny Weavers (old-time, folk, Appalachian), 8pm CROW & QUILL Equinox Erotica Burlesque, 7pm DR. WESLEY GRANT, SR. SOUTHSIDE CENTER Holiday Trivia for Young Adults, 6pm FLEETWOOD'S A ROND Christmas (rock'n'roll), 8pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Dance Party w/DJ Badonkey Kong, 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES Karaoke Night, 8pm

HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Corey Smith (country), 7pm

THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Karaoke w/Terraoke, 9pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Honky-Tonk Fridays w/Jackson Grimm, 4pm

• Cam & His Dam Jam Band (psych-funk, blues, rock), 9pm LA TAPA LOUNGE Open Mic Night w/ Hamza, 8pm MAD CO. BREW HOUSE The Lads (rock, blues), 6:30pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Nic Mac & the Noise (blues, country, rock), 8pm ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Ernie Johnson From Detroit (funk, jazz, rock), 10pm ONE WORLD BREWING Dan Signor (rock, soul), 8pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST The Stolen Faces (Grateful Dead tribute), 9pm SALVAGE STATION Bruce YarnSteen w/ Yarn, Sol Driven Train & Dangermuffin (rock), 8pm SHAKEY'S Friday Late Nights w/ DJ Ek Balam, 12am THE ODD Sun Goblin, the Build & Krave Amiko (Americana, indie-rock, pop), 8pm WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT Jay Dipaola (funk, blues, jazz), 7pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN The Lazybirds (blues, jazz, ragtime), 8pm

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 ALLEY CAT Karaoke Party, 8pm ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY ...Like it's 1999 (dance party), 9pm ASHEVILLE CLUB Mr Jimmy (blues), 7pm

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NICK MAC BRINGS THE NOISE: On Friday, Dec. 8, Nick Mac & the Noise perform at Oklawaha Brewing Co. in Hendersonville, starting at 8 p.m. The Asheville-based singer-songwriter and his rocking country band also dive into blues, rock and folk music. Photo by Rey Castillo Photography ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL Copycatt, Ooga, Humandala, & Rogue Inertia (dance, electronic), 9pm BEARS SMOKEHOUSE BBQ Backyard BBQ w/DJ Audio, 7pm BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 6pm CORK & KEG Soul Blue Rocks (soul, blues, R&B), 8pm CROW & QUILL Firecracker Jazz Band, 8pm DISTRICT 42 Michael Libramento (jazz), 7pm

FLEETWOOD'S Dex Romweber, Los Gun Show, Voola Bros & Ray DaFrico (rock, roots), 9pm

HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Justin Moyar (folk, country), 7pm

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON Comedy Hypnosis w/ Jon Dee, 8pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Nobody's Darling String Band, 4pm • Emily Martin & the Innocent Mischief (antifolk, Americana), 9pm

GINGER'S REVENGE Modelface Comedy Presets: Gluten-Free Comedy, 7pm GREAT WILD NOWHERE Indelible Sauce, Eaze Dawg & Wilbur Lane (hip-hop, folk, blues), 8pm HIGHLAND BREWING CO. WTFunk Project (multiple genres), 6pm

LA TAPA LOUNGE Karaoke Night, 9pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Big Fur & Swansgate (country, post-rock, psych), 8pm SALTY DOG'S SEAFOOD & GRILL Rene Russell (bluegrass, Americana, reggae), 6pm

SHAKEY'S Boot Scoot & Boogie, 10pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Corey Bowers (country, blues), 8pm THE BURGER BAR Best Worst Karaoke, 9pm THE GREY EAGLE Holiday Liquor and Dance Party w/DJ Marley Caroll, 9pm THE ODD Party Foul Drag: Saturday Night Tease, 8pm THE ORANGE PEEL Whitey Morgan & the 78s (country), 8pm

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C L UB L AND URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 9pm WXYZ BAR AT ALOFT DJ Rexx Step, 7pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO Standup Comedy, 6:30pm BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE Parker’s Back (swing, jazz), 3pm CATAWBA BREWING CO. SOUTH SLOPE ASHEVILLE Comedy at Catawba: Eric Neumann, 6:30pm FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Reggae Sunday w/ Chalwa, 3pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Peggy Ratusz & Daddy Longlegs (blues, rock), 2pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB • Bluegrass Brunch, 1pm • Traditional Irish Jam, 3:30pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Steve Durose (alt-rock), 4pm

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

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST • Sunday Jazz Jam, 1:30pm • The Tallboys (rock, reggae), 6pm

DSSOLVR Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

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

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

S & W MARKET Mr Jimmy (blues), 1pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Aaron Woody Wood (Appalachia, soul, Americana), 7pm THE GREY EAGLE • Country Brunch w/ Liliana Hudgens & Erika Lewis, 12pm • Ella Vos (indie-pop, synth), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Best Ever Karaoke, 6pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO. Totally Rad Trivia w/ Mitch Fortune, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Quizzo! Pub Trivia w/ Jason Mencer, 7:30pm ONE WORLD BREWING Open Mic Downtown, 8pm

THE ODD Overgrown Throne, DShk & Faling Behind (hardcore-punk, d-beat), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Mashup Mondays w/ The JLloyd Mashup Band, 8pm

PLĒB URBAN WINERY Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 4pm

SHAKEY'S Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 9pm

MONDAY, DECEMBER 11

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR Mr Jimmy & Friends (blues), 7pm

27 CLUB Karaoke, 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Bouncing Souls w/7 Seconds, Catbite, Blind Adam & The Federal League (punk-rock), 7pm

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12 ASHEVILLE BEAUTY ACADEMY • Trivia: Are You Smarter Than a Drag Queen?, 8pm

• Karaoke w/Ganymede, 9pm FLEETWOOD'S Spooky Tuesdays: All Vinyl DJs, 7pm 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 w/DJ Tamagatchi, 9pm SHILOH & GAINES Songwriters Night, 7pm SILVERADOS Dark City Comedy Open Mic Night, 8pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Weekly Open Jam hosted by Chris Cooper & Friends, 6:30pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN White Horse Open Mic, 7pm

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Old Time Jam, 5pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Bluegrass Jam w/Derek McCoy & Friends, 6pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Latin Night w/DJ Mtn Vibez, 8:30pm SHAKEY'S Sexy Service Industry Night w/DJ Ek Balam, 10pm SHILOH & GAINES Trivia Night, 7pm SOVEREIGN KAVA Poetry Open Mic, 8pm THE ODD Safety Coffin, Yesterday's Clothes & Lucky Flip (indie-rock), 8pm THE ORANGE PEEL 10 Years w/Lost Hearts (rock, prog-metal), 8pm URBAN ORCHARD CIDER CO. SOUTH SLOPE Trivia, 6:30pm WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Irish Music Circle, 7pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY Jerry's Dead (Grateful Dead & JGB Tribute), 6pm HIGHLAND BREWING DOWNTOWN TAPROOM Not Rocket Science Trivia, 6pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7:30pm LAZOOM ROOM BAR & GORILLA Tamar Rubin & Shelley Gruenberg, 7:30pm ONE WORLD BREWING Justin Moyar (folk, country), 8pm ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Pyletribe (rock), 8pm OUTSIDER BREWING Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm SALVAGE STATION Sugar Nova & Future Joy (indie-pop, electronic), 8pm SHAKEY'S Karaoke, 9pm SHILOH & GAINES Karaoke Night, 8pm

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14

SOVEREIGN KAVA Django Jazz Jam, 7pm

FLEETWOOD'S Slow Poison, Chancey 77, Jared Petteys & The Headliners (rock), 9pm

BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE Mike Kenton & Jim Tanner (jazz), 5:30pm

THE GETAWAY RIVER BAR Karaoke w/Terraoke, 9pm

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

CROW & QUILL Firecracker Jazz Band, 8pm

THE ODD CodaPen, On the Block, The Discs & Blistering Dissonance (punk, garage), 8pm

ALLEY CAT Karaoke Party, 8pm

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

FLEETWOOD'S Nuclear Tourism, Powder Horns, The Carniva Barkers & Delta 8 (garage, punk, psych), 8pm

THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN Mr Jimmy (blues), 5pm

ASHEVILLE’S PREMIER NON-ALCOHOLIC MUSIC VENUE SUN: Aaron “Woody” Wood & Friends 7pm MON: Ping-Pong Tournament 6pm TUE: Open Jam w/ house band the Lactones 8pm WED: Poetry Open Mic AVL 8:30pm/8pm signup

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CLASSES & WORKSHOPS CLASSES & WORKSHOPS LOVE TO SING! LEARN A CAPPELLA SINGING FOR FEMALE VOICES WITH A LOCAL CHORUS Song O’ Sky Chorus rehearses Tuesday Nights - 7:00 p.m.

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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): I will cheer you on as you tenderly push yourself to be extra exploratory in the coming weeks. It’s exciting that you are contemplating adventures that might lead you to wild frontiers and half-forbidden zones. The chances are good that you will provoke uncanny inspirations and attract generous lessons. Go higher and deeper and further, dear Aries. Track down secret treasures and lyrical unpredictability.

Experiment with the concept of holy rebellion.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In January, I will tempt you to be a spirited adventurer who undertakes smart risks. I will invite you to consider venturing into unknown territory and expanding the scope of your education. But right now, I advise you to address your precious needs for stability and security. I encourage you to take extra good care of your comfort zone and even add cozy new features to it. Here’s a suggestion: Grab a pen and paper, or open a new file on your favorite device, then compose a list of everything you can do to feel exceedingly safe and supported.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Booker T. Washington (1856–1915) was an American Black leader who advocated a gradual, incremental approach to fighting the effects of racism. Hard work and good education were the cornerstones of his policies. Then there was W. E. B. Dubois (1868–1963). He was an American Black leader who encouraged a more aggressive plan of action.

Protest, agitation, pressure and relentless demands for equal rights were core principles in his philosophy. In the coming months, I recommend a blend of these attitudes for you. You’ve got two big jobs: to improve the world you live in and get all the benefits you need and deserve from it.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): I periodically get a big jolt of feeling how much I don’t know. I am overwhelmed with the understanding of how meager my understanding of life really is.

On the one hand, this is deflating to my ego.

On the other hand, it’s wildly refreshing. I feel a liberating rush of relief to acknowledge that I am so far from being perfect and complete that there’s no need for me to worry about trying to be perfect or complete. I heartily recommend this meditation to you, fellow Cancerian.

From an astrological perspective, now is a favorable time to thrive on fertile emptiness.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Have you reached your full height? If there were ever a time during your adult life when you would literally get taller, it might be in the coming weeks. And that’s not the only kind of growth spurt that may occur.

Your hair and fingernails may lengthen faster than usual. I wouldn’t be shocked if your breasts or penis got bigger. But even more importantly, I suspect your healthy brain cells will multiply at a brisk pace. Your ability to understand how the world really works will flourish. You will have an increased flair for thinking creatively.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I like Virgo author Cheryl Strayed’s thoughts about genuine togetherness. She says, “True intimacy isn’t a cluster fuck or a psychodrama. It isn’t the highest highs and lowest lows. It’s a tiny bit of those things on occasion, with a whole lot of everything else in between. It’s communion and mellow compatibility. It’s friendship and mutual respect.” I also like Virgo author Sam Keen’s views on togetherness.

He says, “At the heart of sex is something intrinsically spiritual, the desire for a union so primal it can be called divine.” Let’s make those two perspectives your guideposts in the coming weeks, Virgo.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): According to my interpretation of your astrological prospects, you now have the capacity to accelerate quickly and slow down smoothly; to exult in idealistic visions and hunker down in pragmatic action; to balance exuberant generosity with careful discernment — and vice versa. In general, Libra, you have an extraordinary ability to shift moods and modes with graceful effectiveness — as well as a finely

honed sense of when each mood and mode is exactly right for the situation you’re in. I won’t be surprised if you accomplish well-balanced miracles.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Dear Goddess — Thank you a trillion times for never fulfilling those prayers I sent your way all those years ago. Remember? When I begged and pleaded with you to get me into a sexy love relationship with You Know Who? I am so lucky, so glad, that you rejected my prayers. Though I didn’t see it then, I now realize that being in an intimate weave with her would have turned out badly for both her and me. You were so wise to deny me that misguided quest for “pleasure.” Now dear Goddess, I am asking you to perform a similar service for any Scorpio readers who may be beseeching you to provide them with experiences they will ultimately be better off without.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Among our most impressive superpowers is the potency to transform ourselves in alignment with our conscious intentions. For example, suppose you feel awkward because you made an insensitive comment to a friend. In that case, you can take action to assuage any hurt feelings you caused and thereby dissolve your awkwardness.

Or let’s say you no longer want to be closely connected to people who believe their freedom is more important than everyone else’s freedom.

With a clear vision and a bolt of willpower, you can do what it takes to create that shift.

These are acts of true magic—as wizardly as any occult ritual. I believe you will have extra access to this superpower in the coming weeks. Homework: Identify three situations or feelings you will use your magic to change.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The eminent Capricorn philosopher William James (1842–1910) is referred to as the “Father of American Psychology.” He was a brilliant thinker who excelled in the arts of logic and reason.

Yet he had a fundamental understanding that reason and logic were not the only valid kinds of intelligence. He wrote, “Rational consciousness is but one special type of consciousness, whilst all about it, parted from it by the filmiest of screens, there lie potential forms of consciousness entirely different.” This quote appears in his book The Varieties of Religious Experience. In accordance with astrological omens, I invite you to investigate those other types of consciousness in the coming months. You don’t need drugs to do so. Simply state your intention that you want to. Other spurs: dreamwork, soulful sex, dancing, meditation, nature walks, deep conversations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Are people sometimes jealous or judgmental toward you for being so adept at multi-tasking? Are you weary of dawdlers urging you not to move, talk, and mutate so quickly? Do you fantasize about having more cohorts who could join you in your darting, daring leaps of logic? If you answered yes to these questions, I expect you will soon experience an enjoyable pivot. Your quick-change skills will be appreciated and rewarded more than usual. You will thrive while invoking the spiritual power of unpredictability.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Romantic relationships take work if you want them to remain vigorous and authentic. So do friendships. The factors that brought you together in the first place may not be enough to keep you bonded forever. Both of you change and grow, and there’s no guarantee your souls will continue to love being interwoven. If disappointment creeps into your alliance, it’s usually wise to address the issues head-on as you try to reconfigure your connection. It’s not always feasible or desirable, though. I still feel sad about the friend I banished when I discovered he was racist and had hidden it from me. I hope these ruminations inspire you to give your friendships a lot of quality attention in 2024. It will be an excellent time to lift the best ones up to a higher octave.

THE N EW Y OR K TI M ES C ROSSWORD P UZ Z LE edited by Will Shortz | No. 1101

ACROSS 1 What a cat’s meow might mean 9 Starchless, as some foods 15 Peak in the HawaiianEmperor seamount chain 16 1957’s “Attack of the Crab Monsters,” for one 17 Actor Sean does some things that aren’t nice 19 What Odysseus was bound to during the sirens’ song 20 Turner with many Grammys 21 Feature of some Indian music 22 Role-play 23 Sierra runners 26 Silent film star Bara didn’t want to leave us 34 Little shots?

35 Vintage Camaro owner’s boast?

36 ___ Day (May 1, in Hawaii) 37 Break 38 An artist might blow it 40 Carpe ___ 41 Half dos 42 California’s ___ Woods National Monument 43 Firm refusal 44 Artist Édouard mistakenly proposed 11:00 48 TV detective Bosch’s former org.

49 Sites for some docs 50 Touch 53 Cut-off pants?

55 Hand over 59 Fictional lawyer Perry cries “I give!”

63 Peninsula south of the Pyrenees 64 Differentiate 65 Explorer from 63-Across

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1 Prayer leader 2 Tamale dough 3 Rustic refuges 4 Storage ___ 5 Photographer Goldin 6 Procedural flaw 7 Elmo’s turquoise amiga 8 “Life of Pi” novelist Martel 9 Trail Blazers’ org.

10 Meditation sounds 11 Rough 12 Alternative to Reebok 13 Hobbit Frodo’s cloaking device 14 Test version 18 Wild horses couldn’t drag them away, presumably 22 Some remote batteries 24 Bothers 25 Govt. health agency 26 Hum monotonously

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31 Sync up 32 “The Brandon ___ Story” (1998 documentary) 33 Handmade sign at a stadium 38 “Forrest ___” 39 Misled 40 One of five in Yahtzee 42 Underground org. of New York 43 “Dynamite” K-pop group 45 Six Flags ride named for a powerful animal

46 Lunchtime tryst 47 Entities holding property 50 Within 51 Bunyan’s ox or Hoggett’s pig 52 Applications 54 Tabula ___ 55 Manilow’s “hottest spot north of Havana,” informally 56 Online zine 57 Swear to mend things?

58 “Cómo ___ usted?”

60 Minor fault 61 Long March leader 62 Where 38-Down served, for short

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS NY TIMES PUZZLE

T R O N D R J J A R G O N O N E I D A C O M E T R U E H A MM E R M E G WH I T E C O P A R E N T L U C B I E B A I M S O R G A N D O U R R A N S O M S I M S D I G G N A S S E R WH I T T L E S E S T I N A S I A M O M A T O Y I N G E G O T I S M C U E D S E C T L I T R E B B Q S S T A K E O U T Y O U G R A MM A D R U M R O L L A I R P O R T S U N D O E R Y A S N E E D M E S M E R

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