Mountain Xpress 04.02.25

FEATURES PAGE 8

INFIELD DIRT

2025 PIT count shows 50% increase in unsheltered

Former water resources director details Asheville’s history in

McCormick Field, Asheville’s venerable minor-league baseball stadium, is in the midst of an 18-month, $38.5 million renovation that will bring it up to standards required by Major League Baseball. Asheville Tourists officials say they are up to the challenge of hosting 66 games this season at a ballpark that’s doubling as a construction zone.

COVER PHOTO

Photo of mascots Mr. Moon, left, and Ted E. Tourist courtesy of the Tourists.

COVER DESIGN Scott Southwick

Exploring

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4/3:

Yes to an Asheville social district

[Regarding “State of Downtown: Annual Event Talks BID, Grants and Plans for Generating Revenue,”

March 26, Xpress:]

I think it’s a great idea to create a social quadrant of the city. Supercool idea. And just in time to get up and running for summer nights. Days, too!

Yes, it is brilliant. I vote yes.

— Jody Fuller Horse Shoe

Social district would burden South Slope businesses

[Regarding “State of Downtown: Annual Event Talks BID, Grants and Plans for Generating Revenue,”

March 26, Xpress:]

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed social district in the South Slope. While I understand the desire to increase foot traffic and revenue for businesses, I do not believe this measure will achieve those goals. Instead, it will create significant challenges for business owners like myself.

The South Slope is not comparable to other areas where social districts have been implemented. The infrastructure here is not designed to support open-container drinking. We lack public restrooms, outdoor seating, gardens and other amenities and attractions that would

make such a district both appealing and manageable.

As a business owner, I foresee additional costs and burdens. I would need extra staff at my entrances to prevent customers from bringing in outside alcohol, which is already an issue during busy events. Enforcing these rules puts unnecessary strain on staff, leads to negative customer interactions and ultimately affects our reputation. Plastic cups add environmental concerns, increase our costs and contribute to litter in an area that already struggles with cleanliness.

Furthermore, I question the validity of the survey results cited by the Asheville Downtown Association. They claim that 75% of respondents support a social district, but how many people actually responded to the survey? Were they primarily business owners, residents or visitors? And how many of them are directly impacted by this proposal in the South Slope? Without transparency on these details, it is difficult to accept this as a true representation of stakeholder support.

If the goal is to revitalize downtown and support local businesses, there are more effective ways to achieve that without the negative consequences of a social district. Enhanced safety measures, improved cleanliness, better marketing campaigns to attract tourists and targeted business support programs would provide more tangible benefits without the downsides.

I urge city leaders to reconsider this proposal and focus on solutions that

will genuinely benefit the businesses and residents of the South Slope.

— Tim Weber Owner and Head Brewer Twin Leaf Brewery Asheville

Thumbs-up for social district

[Regarding “State of Downtown: Annual Event Talks BID, Grants and Plans for Generating Revenue,” March 26, Xpress:]

I think that a social district on the South Slope sounds like an excellent idea!

— Peggy Crowe Asheville

Recent zoning changes are a double-edged sword

[ Regarding “Council Approves Zoning Code Changes to Accelerate Projects,” March 19, Xpress:]

While I understand our area continues to have a housing problem (really, an affordable housing problem — there are numerous $500,000plus houses on the market), I’m not sure allowing developers to build easier and faster is a good thing. I am not against infill development as a concept, but it must be done in a responsible way that does not harm the surrounding older homes. Unfortunately, this has been our experience for the last six years.

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In 2019, we purchased our home (built in 1965) as first-time homebuyers. It is within the City of Asheville, on a street with no city stormwater infrastructure. The sellers had subdivided the original acre lot, and three new houses were built around us, with our home sitting in the lowest point of the whole property. When we bought our house, there was no known history of flooding. Since then, we have experienced stormwater runoff flooding in our home at least a couple of times a year. Summer 2024 was the first time we were able to financially try to solve the problem. We spent thousands of dollars on regrading and drainage work; it has helped slightly, but we still have a flooding problem.

I read that Asheville lost 40% of its tree cover during Helene. Along with other types of vegetation, that significant loss of organic material only makes our urban landscape within the city limits that much more vulnerable to stormwater runoff flooding. The older homes in the less prestigious neighborhoods will be the most affected by increased stormwater runoff from rapid infill development.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 6

CARTOON BY RANDY MOLTON

I implore the City of Asheville to take a thoughtful look at what unintended consequences might occur if we only approach our housing problems with an “easier and faster” mindset and perhaps even strengthen building codes and regulations regarding stormwater.

— Emily Martin Asheville

We live on a self-correcting planet

Though the left continues to dominate our community with unchallenged impunity, cracks are developing that are destined to bend things back into balance.

In a city and county where less than 5% of our attorneys are registered Republicans; 98% of our elected officials are Democrats; public schools are staffed by a dramatic majority of left-minded teachers and administrators; and all of our mainstream media outlets are liberally biased, diversity of thought, view and policy doesn’t exist.

Ironically, Hurricane Helene has been a bright reality check on this status quo that’s illuminated local governments more addicted to social engineering than dependable services. It’s been five years since our mayor, Council and various bands of anything-but-peaceful protesters

successfully eviscerated our Police Department. In spite of a parade of pledges, declarations and assertions, the dramatically reduced numbers of officers in service have remained essentially the same since that original political beatdown. Asheville Police Department’s capacity to respond to most nonviolent crimes has been similarly AWOL.

If you live off the labors of others or are otherwise able to avoid property taxes, you’ll limp along in our elitist and increasingly unaffordable city. If you’re an enterprising soul or own things of value, look to have your pockets picked in upcoming years. Though federal and state funds are temporarily bailing out Asheville and Buncombe County’s rainy-day indifference, our downturn in commerce and tourism, combined with a painful storm recovery, are creating substantial funding deficits. Your wallet will soon be called upon to fix that.

victual (n.) food; provisions (the word is also a verb, meaning “to supply with food”)

In this week’s paper, as part of our Sustainability series, we look at Southside Community Farm’s efforts to supply fresh victuals to residents in the Southside neighborhood. For more on this, turn to page 39. X

Perhaps the single biggest wake-up call on our city’s liberal bent and systemic resistance to political diversity is the ongoing Black reparations initiative. Taxpayers continue to fund this ironically anything-but-racially-inclusive commission with subsidies for the participants. That partially explains their lack of meaningful progress, but most of the letdown can be tracked to city and county leaders who’ve set these misguided folks up for failure. Though the lack of external oversight allows local government to get by — for now — with exceptions, it remains that applying taxpayer funds on the basis of color is neither moral nor legal. Reparations pretense is political motion on a collision course with the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

Don’t look now, but we live in a self-correcting world, and Asheville is not exempt. Hurricane Helene was a demonstration. There’s more to come as the local pendulum ponderously swings back to a point of balance.

— Carl Mumpower Asheville X

CARTOON BY BRENT BROWN

SUSTAINING COMMUNITY

‘It’s time we give back’ Local student shares tips for making a positive impact on the environment

Anna Plocica is the co-president of the A.C. Reynolds High School Environmental Club. She is a senior.

Xpress: What is one goal the Environmental Club met this year that you are most proud of and why?

Plocica: One goal that we had this year was to increase engagement, which we have met in so many different ways. I am so proud to say that our membership has more than tripled this year, and we have so many members that are excited to learn about and serve our Earth. It’s an incredible feeling to be able to provide volunteers for events such as Hard 2 Recycle, local trash cleanups and NC Envirothon. Not only have I felt so proud of our club and its members, the increased engagement creates a fun and diverse atmosphere full of stewardship, leadership and passion.

What does your generation understand about the environment that older generations might be overlooking?

I think that older generations are timid to address climate change as something that is happening right now. Often, it is regarded as a distant future, but our generation understands that it is having a real and immediate impact on our community. Furthermore, our generation understands the call to action to protect and serve the environment before it’s too late.

VOLUNTEER: Anna Plocica, a senior at A.C. Reynolds High School, encourages everyone to volunteer with environmental organizations. Photo courtesy of Plocica

What is one thing you would like to see Xpress readers do to promote sustainability in WNC in the coming year?

Volunteer! Organizations like Asheville GreenWorks are always looking for more people to volunteer, which is a great way to serve the community while continuing your own education about the environment. Additionally, the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy offers guided hikes, which are a great way to get outside and feel motivated to live sustainably. Take advantage of these opportunities and ask your friends to go with you. These mountains have provided Western North Carolina with incredible protection and abundance, and it’s time we give back. X

Infield dirt

Despite McCormick Field construction, Tourists ready to play ball

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

“Thank you for your patience. Please Pardon Our Dirt.”

Those words on the Asheville Tourists’ website make one thing clear: 2025 will not be a typical baseball season at 101-year-old McCormick Field.

The Tourists’ 66 home games will be played at a stadium that’s doubling as a construction zone with fencing, temporary buildings and heavy equipment. That’s because in August, the minor league team began an 18-month, $38.5 million renovation that will bring the stadium up to standards required by Major League Baseball (MLB) under a 2021 directive. Work is expected to be completed by the 2026 season.

In the meantime, the team has dubbed 2025 its “Ballpark Changeup” season, complete with a logo featuring two shovels. Tourists employees have been working in temporary offices throughout the offseason as they get ready for the home opener versus the Greenville Drive on Tuesday, April 8.

The Tourists are the High-A minor league affiliate of the Houston Astros and play in the South Atlantic League.

“We don’t really have full access to the ballpark to do our normal prep to get ready, so it’s going to be a little bit rough,” says Brian DeWine, the team’s owner and president. “There are definitely hurdles, but they are hurdles that we were willing to take on so we could play baseball this summer.”

No construction will be done during games, but fans will definitely notice signs of the ongoing work:

• The field will only be open during home games. For most of those games, the gates will open one hour before the game starts. Visitors will not be permitted at any other time.

• The Tourists Trap team store likewise will only be open during home games.

• The box office will open two hours before each game.

• Some seating sections will have limited views of the left field corner during the season.

• All seats will be assigned during the season, including those that normally are general admission.

• The Wicked Weed Brewing Pavilion and some other parts of the ballpark will be closed.

“The fan aspect of the ballpark is not changing that much from this year compared to other years,” DeWine says. “We’re still going to have all of our food and beverage stations open. We’re still doing fireworks [after Friday games]. We’re still doing promotions. At the end of the day, after the national anthem is played, nine players will run out there and play nine innings. We are still putting on the same great show that we always want to put on. You’ll just have to walk through some construction fencing to get there and there may be some areas that are a little harder to maneuver.”

Funding for the McCormick Field Centennial Restoration and Capital Improvements is coming from the

WORK IN PROGRESS: McCormick Field is in the midst of a $38.5 million renovation project, as shown in this February photo. Photo courtesy of the Asheville Tourists

Tourists and the City of Asheville, which owns the stadium, as well as the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority and the Buncombe County government.

Improvements will include an expanded front entrance and plaza, a new ticket office, new party areas, a state-of-the-art scoreboard and new or renovated clubhouses for both teams. Other additions will include hitting cages, designated facilities for women coaches and umpires, LED lights, an Asheville Baseball History Walk and a new playing surface.

The seating bowl, which has a capacity of about 4,000, will be mostly unchanged, DeWine says.

“It’s kind of a crazy thing to be excited about, but I’m most excited about the new concourse and front entrance,” he says. “It’s just going to be such an amazing welcome mat for the ballpark, an entrance that when you come in, you realize where you are right away. Whereas before, you were walking on a closed-off street. You had 10 feet under an arch to get in.”

The last major renovations to the McCormick Field were between the 1991 and the 1992 seasons, which didn’t pose the challenges the team faces this year.

Buncombe County, which owned the field at the time, spent $3 million to tear

down the aging ballpark, including the rotting wooden grandstands, and build a brick-framed concrete structure on the same site. On April 17, 1992, a capacity crowd of more than 4,000 fans showed up on a rainy night to check out the new stadium and its more comfortable and less obstructed seats, expanded concession areas, brighter lighting, a large plaza area, nine 22-foot arches over the plaza walkway and a cantilevered roof covering the middle portion of the grandstand.

But Bill Ballew, author of A History of Professional Baseball in Asheville, says corners were cut during 1991-92 construction and the new McCormick Field was obsolete almost from the moment it opened. Plus, a slew of minor league parks with “all the bells and whistles” were constructed soon after. The current upgrades would have been necessary to keep the Tourists in town even if MLB had not mandated changes in 2021, he says.

DeWine says he doesn’t anticipate many complaints or concerns from fans about construction.

“I think most people understand that it’s a temporary inconvenience, and they’re going to get a much better ballpark experience when it’s all done,” he says. X

McCormick Field at a glance

Location: 30 Buchanan Place

Owner: City of Asheville

Operator: DeWine Seeds

Silver Dollar Baseball LLC

Seating capacity: 4,000

2024 attendance: 183,987 (about 2,831 per game)

First game: April 3, 1924

Lights installed: 1930

Major renovations: 1959, 1991-92, 2024-26

Sources: Asheville Tourists, Baseballreference.com X

By the numbers

BY JESSICA WAKEMAN

According to the 2025 Point-InTime Count (PIT), unsheltered homelessness increased by 50% in Buncombe County year-over-year.

The latest data also reveals increases in people who are chronically homeless (meaning they have lived without a fixed address for over 12 months) and people who self-identified as having a severe mental health condition or substance use disorder.

However, Buncombe County’s overall increase in homelessness was relatively small — only 2% — from 739 people last year to 755 this year.

The Asheville-Buncombe Continuum of Care (CoC) announced the PIT count results March 26 during a meeting at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville. Around 50 people attended, including about a dozen PIT count volunteers.

HELENE’S IMPACT

CoC programs are federally required to conduct a PIT count at least every two years during the last 10 days in January. Volunteers traverse each county to gather data from unhoused people living in emergency shelters and in transitional housing (such as in a hotel or motel paid by an agency) as well as those who are unsheltered. The PIT count data is shared with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and publicly released several months later.

Buncombe County’s PIT count was conducted differently in 2024 and 2025 from previous years, explained Asheville’s homeless strategy divi-

2025 PIT count shows 50% increase in unsheltered homelessness

sion manager, Emily Ball. Before 2024, the counts were held on only one evening. But in order to capture more accurate data, the county added a second day of counting.

Helene had a big impact on this year’s findings: The count would have totaled 2,303 people if people receiving shelter assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were included. FEMA provided the CoC with data that 1,548 individuals were being housed on Jan. 28 in its Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program in Buncombe County, Ball explained. A FEMA housing program, TSA pays for hotel rooms for individuals or families until their residence is deemed habitable. Buncombe County needs that data because HUD, which

administers CoC programs, requires people staying in hotels paid for by federal agencies to be included in a PIT count.

However, the CoC volunteers didn’t conduct the full PIT count survey with those disaster-impacted individuals in the TSA program, Ball noted. The CoC recognizes such residents are in unique circumstances; often they are waiting to return to housing that is being repaired or rebuilt. Therefore, the TSA participants don’t accurately represent Buncombe County’s homeless community. It is “outlier data,” Ball said. “We will report all of that [to HUD] as required but are really separating here for clarity and to better compare our 2024 data.”

the 2025 PIT count to give a better picture of who is experiencing homelessness in the community. Twothirds are men, nearly 70% are white, and the largest group comprises ages 35-44 followed by ages 55-64. The vast majority of Buncombe County’s homeless numbers are single individuals; only 13 families were counted. The number of homeless veterans decreased from 191 last year to 161 this year; again, Ball pointed out that this could be due to the temporary closure at ABCCM Veterans Restoration Quarters.

This year’s PIT count indicated more homeless people experiencing health challenges. In 2024, 55 adults self-reported having serious mental illness; that number climbed 76% to 97 people in 2025. CoC Chair Melina Arrowood noted the increase could be due to individuals being more comfortable reporting this type of information. (Arrowood is chief operating officer of Behavioral Health Services at Mission Hospital.) More adults also identified themselves as having a substance use disorder. That number grew 84% — from 38 people in 2024 to 70 people in 2025.

The CoC recognizes Buncombe County’s entire homeless population might not be represented in the annual PIT count, although efforts were made to traverse a wide swath of the community. On Jan. 28, street teams went out to conduct the count both on the street and at a dinner at Western Carolina Rescue Ministries. The following day, street teams went out again, visiting campsites and service locations such as at AHOPE Day Center and ABCCM.

Still, Ball continued, Helene did clearly impact homelessness in Buncombe County, as 35% of the unsheltered homeless in the 2025 PIT count said they were without housing because of the storm. She also noted the number of people in transitional housing dropped from 250 in 2024 to 157 in 2025, suggesting the decrease could have been due to Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry’s (ABCCM) Veterans Restoration Quarters, which was temporarily closed after flooding from Helene.

ADDITIONAL DATA POINTS

Some people opted to provide additional demographic data during

Despite these efforts, Arrowood noted at the March 26 meeting that the PIT count might not accurately capture youths who are sleeping at friends’ places or “couch surfing,” people who are hospitalized or in emergency rooms and people who were impacted by Helene who are sleeping in tents or RVs on private property.

Rick Freeman, president of the Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods, also noted that unhoused people who were incarcerated during the PIT count weren’t counted.

The next CoC board meeting will be held Wednesday, April 9, 4-5:30 p.m. at Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville.

Editor’s note: This story was supported by the Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing X

TAKEAWAYS: City of Asheville homeless strategy specialist Debbie Alford, left, discusses key takeaways from the 2025 Point-in-Time count, which gathers data on the number of homeless people in the county. Photo by Jessica Wakeman

Book learning

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

jmcguire@mountainx.com

When Buncombe County reduced hours at six libraries in January due to a Tropical Storm Helene-related countywide hiring freeze, some community members voiced concerns. That included parents who rely on children’s programs at the county’s 12 library branches.

But Library Director Jason Hyatt doesn’t view such feedback as a bad thing.

“I never want to make people unhappy, but one of the indicators that people deeply care about their library is how fired up they get when there’s any type of change,” he explains. “Just seeing that initial public response to the temporary reduction of hours was a big indicator to me that these are people who really, really care about their library. They don’t want to see any reduction in services and they’ll help us support the restoration of those services when the time comes.”

In late January, six branches cut the number of days they’re open. The Black Mountain, Fairview, Leicester and Weaverville libraries are now closed on Tuesdays, while the Oakley and Swannanoa branches are closed Wednesdays and Fridays. All county libraries were already closed on Sundays and Mondays.

The highest-use library locations — Pack Memorial, East Asheville, Enka-Candler, North Asheville, South Buncombe and West Asheville — kept regular Tuesday-Saturday schedules.

“I’ve stressed to everybody that this is not our long-term, permanent operations plan,” Hyatt says. “We’re hopeful that as we come out of the hiring freeze, we’ll be able to transition back to our standard hours.”

The hiring freeze is one way the county is dealing with a projected $15.6 million drop in property and sales tax revenues this fiscal year because of Tropical Storm Helene. Currently, the library system has about 14 open positions. Hyatt also had to find ways to cut $200,000 from his budget. Cuts were made to materials and programming as well as staff travel and training.

To prevent laying off staff or cutting their hours, library staff is shuffled to other branches on the days their regular branch is closed. Another goal was to continue offering core programming, such as youth services, program planning, community outreach and collection development, Hyatt says.

“It was a priority for us when we made this change that, regardless of what the hours look like, all locations would still maintain their programming,” he says.

Buncombe County libraries adjust to life under Helene-related hiring freeze

KID STUFF

Among those feeling the effects of the reduced library hours are parents of young children.

Every month, Buncombe libraries offer 150-250 programs for babies through teens. That includes everything from Dungeons and Dragons and Lego clubs to scavenger hunts, puppet shows and reading challenges. One of the most popular programs, especially among parents, is Story Time, which is offered for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and families. There is also a Spanishlanguage version.

“Story Time is an opportunity for children to come together to hear stories and participate in activities,” Hyatt says. “They have been at all of our locations and they’re led by dedicated youth services librarians. The goal for every story time is to help convey a love of reading and get kids excited about books.”

In 2024, Buncombe libraries averaged about 2,000 children attending the 20- to 30-minute Story Time sessions every month. The sessions often offer an informal gathering for families afterward, Hyatt says. “It creates an opportunity for social interaction and learning and sharing and meeting other families and kids who have also come to Story Time,” he explains.

All branches have continued to offer Story Time and other family programming despite the reduced hours, though some shifted days programs are offered, he says.

That shift has been inconvenient for some parents. Tatiana Rivest Calder says the county’s libraries have been “an amazing resource” for her family since her 6-year-old daughter was a baby. While her daughter has aged out of Story Time, she still participates in kids programs like yoga and fairy crafts at the Weaverville Library, which is now closed on Tuesdays.

“Typically, I would take her in the beginning of the week, but now I have to take her at the end of the week,” says Rivest Calder, who is married to Xpress Managing Editor Thomas Calder. “For working parents, it’s a little crazier at the tail end of the week, so we’re not going as much. We went from going weekly to maybe once every two to three weeks. As a taxpayer, it’s pretty frustrating to not have these kinds of free community resources that were promised.”

West Asheville resident Tessa Fontaine, the mother of a 3-year-old daughter, is similarly frustrated by the decision to reduce library hours.

“It just feels really sad and confusing that this is one of the places that the county is making budgetary cuts,” she says. “I think community programming should be pretty high on the agenda of things that we make sure are maintained.”

Asheville already lacks activities geared toward young families, Fontaine says, making it particularly painful to have some of the few places that are consistently open for kids be affected by the hiring freeze.

“I really love Asheville, but it feels like there are decisions that get made with

tourists in mind ahead of what might be best for people who live here,” she says. “This just feels like another version of that. Shouldn’t we be paying attention to what actually makes life good for the people who live here?”

POSITIVE SIGN

Hyatt understands the frustrations of parents and other library patrons. But he thinks most people understand the budgetary issues the county is facing.

“People have been asking what they can do to support the library and how they can encourage getting hours and staffing levels back to where they were,” he says. “They want to know who to contact at the county to help impress upon them that the library is important. So it’s moved away from complaints and is more about how they can help.”

Some library patrons are facing a further temporary inconvenience. The North Asheville Library will be closed Tuesday, April 15-Friday, May 9, while the building’s interior is repainted and a new carpet is installed. The branch’s programming will be on hold during the closure.

But there is reason for optimism, Hyatt says. The county is letting some departments fill vacancies. Hyatt says he will be able to advertise three positions starting in mid-April.

That won’t give the libraries enough staff members to reopen the branches on days they are now closed, but it’s a step in the right direction, Hyatt says.

“We’ll still have a significant amount of vacancies and we anticipate that it’ll take many months for us to get all those positions filled, unfortunately,” he says. “But I’m excited knowing that things are getting better for us and the county as a whole.” X

USE YOUR WORDS: Kate Spratt, director of youth services at the Enka-Candler Library, leads a Story Time session. Photo courtesy of Buncombe County

City to take over storm-damaged properties

Asheville City Council voted 7-0 March 25 to authorize the city to assume ownership of 23 commercial, three institutional and seven residential storm-damaged properties under a federal program.

Council also approved requests under the same program to raise two commercial buildings and 12 homes 2 feet above the base flood elevation; two additional properties were approved for land stabilization projects to reduce the risk of erosion or landslides.

Under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, the Federal Emergency

Management Agency (FEMA) covers 75% of the cost, and the state covers the rest.

Once in the city’s hands, the property will be deed-restricted to passive uses like parks or other open spaces.

However, the process won’t be fast, Mayor Esther Manheimer cautioned during the Council’s March 20 agenda briefing.

She learned at the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Western North Carolina Recovery meeting March 14 that the federal government has not sent money to the state yet even though Congress allocated the funding.

“It’s there, [but] the check just hasn’t been written to the state, just for your awareness when talking to constituents if there are concerns about delays in the process,” Manheimer told Council members at the briefing. “But we’re not quite there yet. We’re still taking applications, we’re still getting all this processed.”

Bridget Herring, the city’s sustainability director, said during the March 20 briefing that residential properties will be prioritized by the state.

Surveillance concerns

Approving grants for the Asheville Police Department led to a debate among Council members over what level of surveillance is beneficial.

The department plans to use about $59,000 of a U.S. Department of Justice Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant to outfit its Real Time Intelligence Center with a video wall, workstations, chairs, desks and a mobile base station. The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office will receive about $13,000 from the same grant for its intelligence center.

Council members Kim Roney and Sheneika Smith, as well as a couple of community members, raised

concerns about more funding going toward the center.

“There are significant legal and social concerns about real-time intelligence,” Roney said. “I recommended we delay this vote and wondered if anyone shared my concerns during this moment, especially around the security of data and privacy of our residents and the implications of how this federally funded equipment might not be exclusively used by our staff.”

Council member Bo Hess spoke in favor of the funding and said that the center “already apprehended dangerous individuals quickly, often in places where our most vulnerable live: along the greenway, in abandoned lots and near shelters.”

“Public safety and community care are not mutually exclusive. I support our firefighters, our community paramedics and yes, our police officers. Over 95% of our APD officers are trained in crisis intervention for mental health, addiction and de-escalation, and that’s something we should be proud of,” Hess said.

Roney was the lone vote in opposition to grant funding for the center and new bulletproof vests; applying for a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Grant; and renewing a threeyear contract for police recruiting services at approximately $215,100.

The total amount of approved police spending was around $333,000.

During public comment, Asheville resident Molly Rickert, said, “I don’t believe creating a more intense surveillance state is an appropriate use of funding when we’re not paying our firefighters and our EMTs enough. I don’t believe that surveillance cuts down on crime. I think the things that prevent crime are social programming, making sure people have affordable food, affordable health care and affordable places to live. I think that having first responders that are not necessarily police, people well-versed in mental health care, well-versed in de-escalation is going to create better things.”

In other news

Council agreed to amend the agreement with Commonwealth Golf Partners II to manage the Asheville Municipal Golf Course, which was severely damaged by Tropical Storm Helene, less than a year after $2.8 million in improvements to the course were completed. The front nine was significantly damaged, but the back nine has reopened.

The new seven-year contract started April 1, with an option to extend for three years. While the course is only nine holes, the city will cover losses up to $350,000, and the operator will cover any losses above that. Once it reopens as an 18-hole course, profits will be split 65% to the operator and 35% to the city, while losses will be split the other way (35% to the operator and 65% to the city).

A maintenance fee of up to $2 per round will go toward course repair. On another topic, the Department of Parks & Recreation and the Natural and Culture Resources Recovery Support Group, one of six teams focused on recovery, are working on short-term solutions for storm-damaged dog parks, outdoor volleyball, a skating rink, aquatics operations and a parks maintenance facility. The teams are also trying to control erosion in areas that lost vegetation. D. Tyrell McGirt, parks director, said crews are working to reopen Richmond Hill Park, Riverside Cemetery and portions of riverfront recreation areas, parks and greenways. He said it will take up to three years to rebuild French Broad River, River Arts District and Swannanoa River recreation spaces and create more resilient riverfronts, waterways, parks and greenways.

Editor’s note: This story was supported by the Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing

— Brionna Dallara  X

Proposed I-26 connector overpass sparks opposition

Asheville City Council once again debated the Interstate 26 Connector project, proposed by the N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT), during public comment at the March 25 meeting.

However, City Attorney Brad Branham reiterated that the city has no say in the final project.

“This is obviously not a City of Asheville project, this is a state of North Carolina Department of Transportation project,” Branham said.

Many Council members learned after a Feb. 11 city manager’s report that plans for the connector now include a large overpass spanning Patton Avenue. Earlier plans called for the expressway to pass under Patton.

“So we were just partaking in a process, giving input, and they were allowing and respecting input for a while, and now that they’ve dropped the input, we have no control?” asked Council member Sage Turner , who said she was upset about finding out about changes to the project after the city manager’s Feb. 11 report, which didn’t emphasize the overpass.

Council member Kim Roney has requested a follow-up presentation from NCDOT, to which she said it has agreed.

During public comment two presentations lobbied Council to oppose the overpass.

“Bring back the I-26 underpass or an acceptable alternative,” said Wendy Legerton, president of the WNC chapter of American Institute of Architecture (AIA) and principal of Legerton Architecture.

In 2006, the Asheville section of the AIA led an I-26 collaboration among local residents, architects, elected officials, an Asheville Housing Authority representative and NCDOT, Legerton said. It came up with a design deemed “Alternative 4B” that NCDOT incorporated into its plan.

Rachel Murdaugh , an architect with Clark Nexsen and co-founder of Citizens’ Coalition of West Asheville, whose mission is to advocate for the underpass design, created renderings of the current I-26, a version with the proposed overpass and one

OVERSHADOWING: A rendering created by architect Rachel Murdaugh shows the I-26 Connector overpass on Patton Avenue. Image courtesy of Murdaugh

depicting the underpass that included a bike lane down the middle of Patton Avenue and sidewalks bookending the bridge over the French Broad river.

Initial bids for the project in 2024 came in more than $100 million over projections, prompting DOT to reconfigure the project. That’s when the overpass was added.

“We are asking for your support to engage in a genuine participatory design process — one that respects community input budget realities and honors the intentions of the original agreement of option of 4B,” said Dori Darras, business development analyst for kWh Analytics and co-founder of Citizens’ Coalition of West Asheville.

In addition to design recommendations, Darras urged Council to press the state to extend the public comment period beyond Friday, April 4, for NCDOT’s 10-year project plan.

Joe Minicozzi, urban design planner for Urban3 and a member of the group that developed Alternative 4B, gave the second presentation. He strongly opposes the overpass plan, pointing out the noise the overpass will cause and its negative impact on property values adjacent to the expressway.

“Nothing in the law says we have to do the cheapest thing possible. It says to do the least environmentally destructive preferred alternative,” Minicozzi said.

— Brionna Dallara

X

ALTERNATIVE VIEW: A rendering created by architect Rachel Murdaugh shows what Patton Avenue could look like with I-26 passing underneath. Image courtesy of Murdaugh

Nature Center reopens after damage from Helene

More than five months after Tropical Storm Helene destroyed roads and the main bridge to the Western North Carolina Nature Center, the wildlife park reopened last month. In a press release, Nature Center Director Chris Gentile said he initially expected that it would be at least a year before the park could reopen due to the extensive flood damage.

“Thanks to the steadfast work of our city workers, the [N.C. Department of Transportation] and a myriad of community partners, we are ready to welcome guests back,” Gentile said. The center also made improvements to its Gateway to the Southern Appalachians exhibit.

According to the same press release, the park will also open its butterfly garden in the summer as well as complete renovations to barn and farmyard space and expand the gift shop.

Friends of the WNC Nature Center, the nonprofit that supports the center and advocates for conservation, sent staff and volunteers throughout the region during the shutdown to provide hands-on wildlife experiences at schools, libraries and community centers.

The WNC Nature Center is open seven days a week from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. with last admission at 3:30 pm. The ticket office is now cashless. Tickets are available in advance online or in person using credit/debit and prepaid cash cards.

The route to the Nature Center is new since Gashes Creek Bridge was destroyed. For directions and more information, visit avl.mx/emi.

Forum on public lands

Key environmental leaders in Western North Carolina and East Tennessee will host a public forum on how communities can work together to support public lands and national parks Wednesday, April 9, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at The Mule, Devil’s Foot Beverage Co., 131 Sweeten Creek Road, Suite 10.

The event will include short presentations by representatives of several organizations with a presence in

WILD WELCOME: The Western North Carolina Nature Center reopened March 17, almost six months after substantial storm damage from Tropical Storm Helene. Photo courtesy of the Nature Center

the region, including the Appalachian Watershed Alliance, Center for Biological Diversity, Defenders of Wildlife, MountainTrue and others. All the organizations maintain staff or offices in the region, working on a variety of issues and missions related to public lands, parks, landscape connectivity, and the health and continued viability of the regions wildlife and forests. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit avl.mx/eo7.

Bradford pear tree removal

The Hendersonville Tree Board and N.C. State University are sponsoring the Bradford Pear Bounty, an invasive tree replacement program that rewards property owners for removing

harmful species from their land. The event will be held Saturday, April 12, from 9-11 a.m., at 305 Williams St., Hendersonville.

Over 200 native trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants must own property within the City of Hendersonville and provide a photo of an invasive species they have removed or treated with herbicide. Registration is required. More information at avl.mx/pryo.

BRP Foundation earns engagement award

The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, the nonprofit that serves as a conservation advocate and fundraising partner for the Blue Ridge Parkway, received the 2025 Outstanding Public Engagement Award from the Public Lands Alliance for its Blue Ridge Rising initiative that was created to strengthen relationships and foster economic development within the communities that neighbor the Blue Ridge Parkway. The award recognizes products, displays, programs or services that build meaningful and sustainable connections between individuals and America’s public lands. More information at avl.mx/emm.

Trout stocking

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission completed its spring and summer Delayed Harvest and Hatchery Supported trout stocking schedule after assessing impacts from Tropical Storm Helene. The list, which informs anglers of all the locations the commission will be open and stocked during the spring and summer, was developed after disaster assessments of each location determined stream damage impacts, parking and access infrastructure damage, and whether the location can safely be accessed by stocking trucks and anglers. More information at avl.mx/emn.

Certified burner training

The state Forest Service is offering a North Carolina Certified Burner class Monday-Thursday, May 19-22. All 2025 Certified Burner classes include virtual classroom sessions

and in-person group field activities. Topics include the state’s Prescribed Burn Act, weather, fuels, topography, fire danger rating, managing smoke, firing techniques and burn plans. Participants will need a laptop or tablet, a microphone and reliable high-speed internet. A $25 fee will be collected before the course begins. More information at avl.mx/emo.

Spring series at the N.C. Arboretum

The N.C. Arboretum is launching has launched Spring Into the Arb — a new series of events and happenings taking place through June. The series culminates with the Blue Ridge Bonsai Society Show on Friday, June 6 and Saturday, June 7. Spring Into the Arb events and programs are included with the regular Arboretum parking fee of $20 per vehicle; Arboretum Society Members get in free. Additional admission is required for the Asheville Orchid Festival and Bonsai Show. More information at avl.mx/9fx.

UNCA vows no changes to Botanical Garden

According to a March 25 press release, the UNC Asheville has allowed the independent nonprofit, the Asheville Botanical Garden, to manage the Botanical Garden site on the UNCA campus. The site showcases native plants of the Southern Appalachian region and serves as a living classroom and urban destination for students, educators and the broader public. The two entities released a joint public statement regarding the continued use of the garden:

“While the garden property lies within the boundary of the university’s designated Millennial Campus, the university has no intention of developing or altering the Botanical Garden site,” the statement reads. “UNC Asheville and the Asheville Botanical Garden are currently engaged in positive and productive conversations to extend the existing lease and deepen the collaborative relationship between our institutions. Both parties are committed to ensuring that the Botanical Garden remains protected, thriving and open to the community for generations to come.”

— Brooke Randle  X

SUSTAINING COMMUNITY

Ripple effect

Charles Martin on ways to improve local education

The Rev. Charles Martin was elected to the Buncombe County Board of Education, representing the at-large district in November. He also serves as senior pastor of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church.

Xpress: How should Buncombe’s two school districts better collaborate?

Martin: Our collaboration between the two school systems should focus on these key areas to enhance the educational experience and maximize resources:

• Staff development: Joint training to share best practices, technology and instructional strategies.

• Shared curriculum: Develop a centralized database of lesson plans, activities and materials for teachers.

CHARACTER MATTERS: Trustworthiness, transparency, respect and creating a safe space for others to share their opinions are key components to improving our local schools, says the Rev. Charles Martin. Photo courtesy of Martin

• Curriculum alignment: Align curriculums across both systems, including dual enrollment programs for advanced courses.

• Community engagement: Hold joint parent and community meetings to share important information.

• Data collaboration: Use data to identify student performance trends, advocate for funding and support policy changes.

• Support services: Provide joint services in special education, career counseling, events and integrated technology systems. What’s your vision for the future of publicly funded education?

I believe schools should receive all the funding they need for quality education. If I had my way, I would create a two-part funding formula:

• Weighted by position: Tailor funding based on the unique needs of each school and community.

• Weighted by student: Ensure funding is distributed fairly to support all students effectively.

In the face of so many challenges to our public schools, how do you cope and stay positive?

In life, we face ups and downs from the choices we make or those made by others. Sometimes they’re the right choices, sometimes not; but staying negative won’t help us achieve our goals. I like using the “ripple effect” analogy — when you throw a rock in water, it creates expanding ripples. To stop the negative “ripples,” we need to approach it with leadership. We must normalize conflict, keep things simple and lead by example with behaviors like trustworthiness, transparency, respect and creating a safe space for others to share their opinions. If we all do this, the negative ripple effect will stop. X

by Lisa Allen | lallen@mountainx.com

,

agriculture teacher at West Henderson High School, was named the district’s N.C. Center for the Advancement of Teaching Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year. As head of the school’s Future Farmers of America chapter, he provides students a handson experience in agriscience, horticulture and animal science, according to a press release from Henderson County Public Schools. X

Asheville Media Group on March 17 launched “Despierta Con Omar” (Wake Up With Omar), a live local morning show on La Pantera 97.3, Asheville’s first commercial Spanish-language radio station, according to a media release. “As a Venezuelan born and raised in a community surrounded by mountains, joy and wonderful people — much like Asheville — I’ve spent my career in radio, working to connect with people and share the energy and stories that unite us all,” said show host Omar Mayorga. The show features news, music, entertainment and contests. “Despierta Con Omar” airs weekdays from 6-10 a.m. X

Shadow of a Wheel, a four-part documentary series that premiered in 2023, earned a Regional Emmy in the “Historical Documentary” category at the 39th Midsouth Regional Emmy Awards held Feb. 15 in Nashville by the Nashville/Midsouth Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Produced by Asheville-based Bonesteel Films and directed by Paul Bonesteel, the documentary tells the true story of a group of American teens, including Bonesteel, who embarked on a coast-to-coast bike trip in the summer of 1982 to raise money for multiple sclerosis. Bonesteel is also finishing a film on the life of Japanese photographer George Masa in A Life Reimagined: The George Masa Story with plans for a 2025 release. To watch Shadow of a Wheel on PBS, go to avl.mx/enm X

Film awards

Pet

Week of the

Meet the bestest boy in the world! Trevor is a young pooch that would thrive being the only canine in your home, surrounded by dog-savvy teenagers and adults. Stop by Asheville Humane Society at 14 Forever Friend Lane to meet Trevor. He is eagerly waiting, tennis ball in mouth and tail a-wagging. Photo courtesy of Asheville Humane Society X

The Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde has welcomed Maverick, a 4-year-old Newfoundland therapy dog, to its volunteer program. Maverick, owned by Connie Sovie, will provide comfort and companionship to patients, visitors and staff throughout the hospital.

“Therapy animals have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and even physical pain for patients,” CEO Chris Brown said in a press release.

“We are excited to have Maverick join our team and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our hospital community.” X

Man in CHARGE

David “Scottie” Harris was hired by Weaverville Town Council on March 24 as Weaverville’s new town manager. He has been interim manager since June. Harris has a 30-year career in emergency services with over 20 years in municipal government. Harris said in a press release: “I am proud to be a member of this team that showed such excellence in persevering with a ‘can do’ attitude in overcoming obstacles during Tropical Storm Helene. As we continue with the recovery efforts, I can look around and see the accomplishments of neighbors helping neighbors that show what this community and town are all about.” X

Heavy-duty

Truck City AVL, sponsored by Asheville Parks & Recreation, will be at Tanger Outlets Asheville from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, April 12. Kids (and adults) can sit in, explore, touch and ask questions about 40 different vehicles, including rescue vehicles, a crane, public works equipment, utility tractors and construction machines. A quiet hour (no horn honking) from 1-2 p.m. will provide a positive experience for those with autism, dementia, PTSD, hyposensitivity and other sensory considerations. There will also be games, a kids’ driving course, a roaming trackless train for riding and giveaways. Tanger Outlets Asheville is at 800 Brevard Road in Asheville. Truck City AVL takes place rain or shine in the back parking lot near the food court entrance. X

Opus grant Diapers Indeed

FernLeaf Community Charter School in Fletcher announced March 17 that it will receive musical instruments and equipment valued at nearly $25,000 from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation through its Music Rising disaster relief fund. The school’s music program suffered complete loss of one of its two campuses due to Tropical Storm Helene. “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and support of the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation,” said Jennifer Love, lower school director, in a press release. “Music is an integral part of our students’ education, and this donation ensures that we can continue providing meaningful musical experiences to our students during this critical time of healing and rebuilding as well as for years to come.” For more information, visit avl.mx/enq X

When parents and relatives come to purchase their child’s birth certificate at the Buncombe County Register of Deeds, 205 College St., they can pick up diapers, formula and other infant-care supplies free of charge, thanks to the Register of Deeds and Babies Need Bottoms, an Ashevillebased diaper bank serving Western North Carolina. “Many people are shocked to learn public assistance programs like SNAP (food stamps) and WIC cannot be used to purchase diapers,” said Alicia Heacock, co-executive director for Babies Need Bottoms, in a press release. Learn more at avl.mx/ai1 X

Photo by Cindy Kunst

Beyond the grave

WCU students help analyze Helene-affected cemetery

BY GREG PARLIER

Six months later, the effects of Tropical Storm Helene in Western North Carolina linger, even underground. When 53 trees fell in the City of Asheville’s 87-acre Riverside Cemetery, dozens of gravesites were endangered when dirt and roots that had intermingled with coffins were ripped out of the ground.

In an effort to suggest how debris-removal contractors could gently remove the remaining stumps and root balls, archaeology students from Western Carolina University (WCU) spent the week of March 10 — their spring break — studying and uncovering graves near tree falls.

“They have friends who are probably at Myrtle Beach right now, and they’re out here working and having this chance to apply skills they’re learning in the classroom in a very practical way,” says Ben Steere, head of the department of anthropology and sociology at WCU.

None of the final resting places of the 140-year-old cemetery’s most famous residents, from Thomas Wolfe to Zebulon Vance, were damaged in the storm, says Jonathan Neary, interim cemetery manager. However, about 40 of the graveyard’s more than 14,000 burial sites were disrupted, triggering the need for a careful review.

AshBritt, a debris removal contractor funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), swept through the cemetery removing limbs

and large tree trunks, leaving stumps and root balls near gravesites, says Jes Foster, Asheville’s solid waste manager. FEMA’s Environmental Historic Preservation Division requires the city to perform a study to ensure “sensitive historic matters are preserved.”

That’s where about 10 students and three professors — two archaeologists and an anthropologist — came in.

Steere said FEMA called WCU’s chancellor’s office in January to ask if they could help. Initially, he was a little concerned about what the scale would be but decided it could be accomplished in a week and enthusiastically signed on.

The team jumped in, carefully uncovering headstones that had been buried by debris and picking through root balls to ensure they did not displace any human remains. The spent a week at the cemetery and will submit recommendations to the city for how it should complete debris removal at each gravesite.

DISASTER ARCHAEOLOGY

Students were applying cultural resource management archaeology, a common career goal for aspiring archaeologists, says Steere. This form of archaeology ensures that important cultural sites are not disturbed whenever there is digging — such as before a school is built or a sewer line is installed. But it’s not often that a cemetery is unearthed.

Thus, the project at Riverside represented an opportunity for students to apply archaeology to real life, Steere

notes. “In this case, the practical problem is what is the safest, best way to remove these stumps, these big tree falls, without disturbing any more graves and burials that are present?”

Tree roots tend to grow toward ground that is disturbed, in this case to bury a casket.

“Once you’ve dug a hole, that tends to make a kind of reservoir for moisture. You disturb that soil moisture, and the trees are like, ‘Hey, there’s a source of moisture,’” says Brett Riggs, Sequoyah distinguished professor of Cherokee studies at WCU.

Then, if roots have grown underneath and around a coffin when the tree falls, its roots — and whatever they are wrapped around — are pulled to the surface.

Riggs noted March 11 while meeting with Xpress that while some graves had collapsed from the weight of trees on top of them, there didn’t appear to be much root-caused damage to graves.

“There are relatively few graves, given the sort of the scope of destruction, that are very directly affected by holes right next to them. In terms of [remains that were] rooted out, we’re finding that it’s a better situation than we thought,” he noted.

The team also researched long-deceased families to ensure there weren’t any unmarked graves disturbed.

Students sifted through cemetery records and searched for eulogies online to determine exactly how many

children would have been buried in a family plot, for example. They found one eulogy from 1937 on findagrave.com that showed a mother had five children who died at a young age, indicating that there were likely five children buried with her at Riverside, Riggs notes.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

Once the WCU team completes its recommendations, representatives from FEMA and AshBritt will determine which sites will require special attention from a professional archaeologist, Foster says.

“When they come out to this location, they’re going to have a kind of readymade set of recommendations, photographs, things they can use. It’ll help inform them of the best way to remove [the remaining debris],” Steere says.

Meanwhile, Riverside Cemetery remains closed to the public, and it’s unclear when it will reopen, says D. Tyrell McGirt, Asheville parks and recreation director.

In addition to the about 30 burials each year, Riverside acts as a frequently used park, Neary says. Ghost and history tours also are frequent users of the cemetery during warmer months.

Only private sales are being processed, as the city is not selling any new plots, Neary notes. The city can still accommodate burials, even during debris cleanup. There have been eight since the storm, McGirt says. X

DISASTER DIG: Ben Steere, head of the department of anthropology and sociology at Western Carolina University, explains how his students are helping analyze gravesites that may have been affected by fallen trees during Tropical Storm Helene at Riverside Cemetery. Photo by Greg Parlier

GRAVEDIGGERS: Students of archaeology from Western Carolina University sift through dirt collected from a gravesite at Riverside Cemetery in Asheville to ensure no human remains were affected by a tree’s root ball when it fell near the burial site during Tropical Storm Helene. Photo by Greg Parlier

Divining rod

BY GREG PARLIER

gparlier@mountainx.com

For most of the city’s history, pure water has drawn people to Asheville. While two events in the last three years have shaken the confidence of Asheville’s 125,000 water system customers, the purity of the region’s water has been a driver of growth for two centuries, according to a new book from Michael Holcombe Holcombe, who was Asheville’s water resources director from 199397, details how the region’s water has driven growth and has been the crux of the city’s most heated political fights since residents first pulled water from public wells in the town square in the early 1800s.

The Story of Asheville’s Water: Before and After Hurricane Helene takes readers on a chronological journey from its official recognition as a town in 1797 with a population of 38 to its recovery from the “greatest natural disaster yet to occur for the Asheville water system”: Tropical Storm Helene. Along the way, Holcombe recounts how Asheville was the first city in North Carolina to install water filters on its public water supply — then the Swannanoa River — in 1889. Those filters became obsolete when the city began drawing water higher up in the mountains from the North Fork of the Swannanoa River near the present-day reservoir in 1903. Since then, the pristine nature of Asheville’s 18,000-acre watershed below Mount

Former water resources director details Asheville’s history in new book

Mitchell has been a source of pride for city officials, Holcombe reports.

But that source of pride has also been the source of political squabbling going back nearly a century.

Xpress sat down with Holcombe recently to discuss his book and the current state of the Asheville water system.

Xpress: What made you write this book?

Holcombe: I was really stunned to realize a couple of years ago, through my role as member of the Independent Review Committee appointed by

History of water

• 1797: Morristown in the Swannanoa valley was renamed Asheville.

• Early 1800s: Residents pulled water from two public wells in present-day Pack Square Park.

• 1880: The railroad crosses the Eastern Continental Divide at Old Fort, greatly increasing access to WNC.

• 1883: Asheville incorporates as a city.

• 1889: The city installs the state’s first water filter on a public drinking water supply, responding to muddy water issues from its source on the Swannanoa River.

• 1903: The city finished a transmission line from the North Fork of the Swannanoa River to its holding reservoir on Beaucatcher Mountain.

• 1916: The historic flood of 1916 did not significantly impact Asheville’s water system.

• 1921: A transmission line is added from Bee Tree Creek, supplementing the line from North Fork.

• 1925: A historic drought and continued growth forced the city to consider expanding its water capacity. Buncombe County established water and sewer districts to help finance expansion of the water distribution system. Woodfin establishes its own water supply system.

• 1927: Bee Tree Reservoir is completed.

• 1933: The Sullivan Act is passed, prohibiting the city from charging noncity residents more for water. The city has been seeking work-

incorporate that major event into the book?

I guess a character flaw in my life has always been a bit of procrastination. I had finished the book, and then I saw that Apple announced that it’d be bringing [artificial intelligence] out in October with writing tools. I thought, “Well, that might be a good way to catch grammatical errors or punctuation.” So I put it off, pending the AI release by Apple, which ironically, I didn’t use at all in the final product. But then, of course, Helene happened. It would have been absolutely dreadful to write such a book and publish it in August and have this event happen a month later when the volume was intended to be a comprehensive history of the water system.

What jumped out to you while you were doing research for your book?

Asheville City Council, that there was really no written resource on the history of Asheville’s water system.

The water system has been central to the history of Asheville and continues to be, as witnessed by the cataclysm of Helene and how the water system was bereft of potable water production for 53 days. The farther you go back, the more important the water system was. And so having the time and the inclination, I thought it might be a good project to do.

Your book came out just three months after Helene. How did you

arounds and unsuccessfully lobbying to appeal the law ever since.

• 1954: North Fork Dam and reservoir were completed, retiring Bee Tree Reservoir as a drinking water source.

• 1959: Gerber Products Co., the world’s largest manufacturer of baby food, opens a major production facility in south Buncombe County, citing Asheville’s pristine water as its reason for locating there.

• 1965: Fluoride is added to the drinking water supply.

• 1994: A regional water authority is created among Asheville, Buncombe County and Henderson County, allowing the city to acquire property for a water treatment plant on Mills River.

• 2004: Significant flooding in Biltmore Village spurs future improvements at North Fork.

• 2005: The regional water authority is disbanded after the N.C. General

The sense of explosion and growth once North Fork was developed. The city aldermen printed 10,000 copies of a treatise that was lauding the North Fork water and how wonderful it was. I still don’t feel like I understand how significant the explosion was. E.W. Grove, who had an interest in tourism, figured there were 150,000 people that came to Asheville to visit in the month of August 1921.

What was the impact of the 1933 Sullivan Act?

Billy Sullivan passed the Sullivan Act because there was concern that the city would use its water system to double or triple the rates of the water it was selling the districts and then use that

Assembly passes Sullivan Acts II and III. The laws prohibit the city from allocating funds from the water fund to its general fund for any reason, closing off a revenue source for the city.

• 2021: Renovation of the North Fork Dam is completed, including a spillway that proves essential in preventing catastrophic damage during Tropical Storm Helene.

• 2022: A water system outage during a deep freeze at Christmas spurs criticism of the city’s response. It took 10 days for the city to restore water service to a large portion of the city.

• 2024: Tropical Storm Helene causes substantial damage to the water system, including creating never-before-seen turbidity in the Burnette Reservoir at North Fork Dam. It took the city 21 days to restore boil-only water to 95% of its customers and 53 days to restore potable water. X

WATER MAN: Michael Holcombe has written the first comprehensive history of the City of Asheville’s water system, from the early 1800s through Tropical Storm Helene. Photo by Greg Parlier

water to pay off the debt that the city incurred during the Great Depression. Asheville was precluded from using its water system as a tool for annexation. Water systems have actually been used all over the United States, and particularly in North Carolina, to do that. Asheville never was able to do that.

What did Helene teach you about the city’s water system as it stands today?

If you read between the lines, after hurricanes Frances and Ivan in 2004, the city found itself in the unenviable position as a water utility, functioning not only as a water supply source, but also as a flood control unit. Due to that terrible flood in Biltmore Village in 2004, [the city felt] the need to not only capture as much water as it could for water supply, but then to look at its discharge downstream and become responsible for warning the community during rain events. I would not have enjoyed taking on that additional responsibility. Tennessee Valley Authority dams like at Fontana are developed to control floods, unlike North Fork. With the completion of the auxiliary spillway and the other necessary improvements that they did at North Fork in 2021, they don’t open flood gates anymore.

The auxiliary spillway is designed to operate the way that it did during Helene. As bad as the destruction that happened at North Fork, it did save the main dam. It did save the water treatment plant.

After Helene, the turbidity of the water in the Burnette Reservoir reached record levels. Why didn’t the city have turbidity filters?

We were extremely proud of the direct filtration method of water treatment because it pointed to the purity of water. The water coming into the lake was already at the turbidity levels that most other municipal water systems had to spend a great deal of money on for sedimentation basins. Asheville didn’t have to do that because our water was already clean. It was like a feather in Asheville’s cap.

What should the city prioritize now?

It is time to get the main supply line from North Fork out of the flood plain. They’re going to have to lay a new waterline from North Fork to Bee Tree Junction.

I believe that’s the first thing they need to do and, of course, proceed with sedimentation basins for both North Fork and Bee Tree. X

Welcome (back) to Asheville

DIY Tourism Marketing Conference addresses post-Helene recovery

BY EMILY O’BRIEN

email@mountainx.com

As Asheville continues to recover from Tropical Storm Helene, the eighth annual DIY Tourism Marketing Conference highlighted the city’s evolving strategy for rebuilding and sustaining its tourism industry. Local leaders such as Dodie Stephens, vice president of marketing at Explore Asheville, emphasized the power of strategic marketing and positive storytelling.

“Beyond the economic benefits, events like DIY Tourism help tell our comeback story through positive word-of-mouth and amplification on the regional and national stage,” she said during a panel discussion.

Originally scheduled for November, the conference was postponed due to the effects of Helene, making this year’s March gathering an especially meaningful opportunity to reflect on the region’s path forward.

“Attendees who come to the Asheville area for a conference, concert or sporting event leave inspired and pleasantly surprised by our progress,” Stephens noted to the audience. “They go home excited to tell their friends that we are open and welcoming visitors.”

RESEARCH AND TRENDS

Held March 17-18 at the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel, the DIY Tourism Marketing Conference drew professionals from across the country, some from as far as Hawaii.

Hosted by Learn Tourism, a nonprofit committed to shaping the future of tourism through education, the conference partnered with JB Media Institute to provide practical strategies for navigating tourism’s evolving landscape. Sessions covered digital marketing, content creation and the implementation of analytical tools.

The conference also fostered a collaborative learning environment where industry professionals could provide expertise on how they use common tools and technologies in unique ways. The goal was to exchange knowledge that drives growth and innovation.

One of the key discussions focused on the increasing complexity of

digital marketing and technological advancements in tourism. Sarah Benoit, conference co-founder and lead instructor at Learn Tourism, highlighted challenges such as scattered digital efforts, rapid artificial intelligence (AI) and social media changes, and limited time for learning new technology.

In her keynote, Benoit explored strategies for transforming ideas into actionable plans, stressing that marketing is about relationships and listening to what people want and need.

Citing research by Google and consultancy Deloitte, Benoit noted that international travel is predicted to increase 60% by 2040. This set of tourists, she explained, are categorized as “emerging” — those drawn to familiar, well-established destinations — and “mature” travelers, who prefer off-the-beaten-path experiences. Regardless of their category, all travelers prioritize being well-informed and conduct thorough research before embarking on their trips, she added.

Another trend is the rise of experience-driven travelers — those seeking unique and immersive experiences who want a more personalized trip. According to reports, 66% of global travelers want authentic travel experiences.

MORE CONFERENCES TO COME

While the city has long been known for its arts, food scene and outdoor attractions, there is growing recognition of the economic benefits that business tourism brings. With investments in conference facilities and an emphasis on destination marketing, Asheville has positioned itself as an attractive option for professional events, which offer a steadier revenue stream compared with seasonal leisure tourism.

“Hospitality can be the front porch for economic development, and that is a community effort,” Stephens told Xpress at the event. “Local business leaders can play a role in bringing business events to their hometown. It is a huge win when area community leaders help bring a company meeting or their professional association here to Buncombe County. It can be as simple as an email connection with Explore Asheville’s business development team.”

Conferences and business events contribute significantly to the local economy by driving demand for hotels, restaurants, transportation services and entertainment venues.

In her keynote, Benoit explained, “Many [attendees] take the time to enjoy the food, beer, shopping,

outdoor recreation, and health and wellness experiences we have available. Many of them arrive early on the weekend to have some extra time to explore downtown. We also attract local tourism and hospitality professionals, as well as small businesses to our event, who want to learn about marketing technology and discover the best way they can implement new strategies and tools.”

The DIY Tourism Marketing Conference, Benoit told Xpress , was intentionally scheduled for Monday and Tuesday sessions. “For the businesses that are open early in the week, we can generate some additional revenue that may not be there,” she said. “We confirm what businesses are available to welcome visitors on Monday and Tuesday and share that information with our attendees before they arrive. Our attendees are also more likely to stay in our hotels instead of alternative lodging, like Airbnbs, because they work in the tourism industry.”

According to Stephens, Asheville will host 120 business meetings, sports events and conferences over the next six months. “Those events will disburse $34.1 million in economic benefit through local business of all kinds,” she said. X

BUILDING BACK: Sarah Benoit, conference co-founder and lead instructor at Learn Tourism, spoke at this year’s DIY Tourism Marketing Conference. The gathering touched on several topics, including strategies for welcoming visitors back to Western North Carolina in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. Photo by Emily O’Brien

Golden Agers

Law and music — and one man’s passions for both

BY CAROL KAUFMAN

ckaufman828@gmail.com

Alan Graf and his wife, Eleanor Ingram , bade farewell to the quirky charm of Floyd, Va., over two years ago. While they adored the town’s close-knit bluegrass community and mountain town spirit, they yearned to be closer to their children and grandchildren. So the couple set out for Asheville, a place that offered both fresh opportunities and the warmth of family nearby.

“It wasn’t easy leaving Floyd,” Graf reflects, “but Asheville welcomed us with open arms. This is the kind of place where people can truly be themselves. Even in the face of something as devastating as a hurricane, there’s a deep-rooted spirit of resilience and celebration here. That’s something we’ve really come to love about this place.”

Over the past two years, Graf has immersed himself in the Asheville community by using his legal expertise as a civil lawyer to make a difference. He’s offered free representation to street musicians and stepped in to assist Tropical Storm Helene victims navigate the challenges of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and unyielding landlords.

A lifelong musician, Graf also plays guitar for the band Rock While Rome Burns, blending politically charged anthems with heartfelt love songs.

But it was in the cozy mountain town of Floyd where Graf truly discovered his love for Appalachian bluegrass and old-time music.

“Being part of that tight-knit community for 10 years inspired me to create the Floyd Americana Festival, which is still going strong today,” says Graf.

Graf’s draw to the genre also inspired him to document its essence on film by producing the short documentary A Best Kept Secret: The Floyd Americana Music Scene, available on YouTube. The film offers a glimpse into the rich, friendly musical culture of the town he once called home.

For Graf, both law and music are more than passions — they’re tools for activism and ways to spark change in the world around him.

“I’m always angry on some level,” he says. “[It] traces back to my grandparents, who were killed in Auschwitz, just for being Jewish. The fact that they didn’t make it out has driven me to make the world a better place.”

Graf’s draw to activism took off during the Vietnam War when he worked alongside the Black Panthers helping organize breakfasts for migrant families in New York. He marched through the streets of Washington, D.C., with Abbie Hoffman and still found time to channel his activism into music, writing and performing political songs with various bands.

Nowadays, Graf shows no signs of slowing down. Though he’s scaled back his legal work, his days are still packed with such activi -

Green thumbs & aspiring gardeners alike!

Spring is here, and Xpress has launched its monthly gardening feature based on reader questions.

Please submit all gardening inquiries to gardening@mountainx.com

CHANGE AGENT: For Alan Graf, both law and music are more than passions — they’re tools for activism and ways to spark change in the world around him.

ties as rehearsing with his band, playing at open mics and working on a folk musical about a Jewish woman searching for meaning in her life, which he plans to release this summer.

“I believe that, despite all our hardships, we’ve got to be able to laugh and dance,” says Graf.

With that spirit in mind, Graf is inviting everyone to Asheville’s first ever Resist Dance at One World Brewing West, Saturday, April 19, 4- 7 p.m., $10 cover. The event is organized by Graf and Musicians Organizing Activist Committee; co-sponsored by Indivisible AVL.  X

Photo by Carol Kaufman

Ballot Categories 2025

This year’s Best of WNC ballot offers voters an opportunity to celebrate the local individuals, organizations and businesses that are helping define our region and how it evolves. You are invited to vote this April based on your local knowledge and passions. The online ballot covers hundreds of topics and issues. Don’t be daunted — just vote for the categories you care about and skip those you don’t.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Music Events & Venues

• Local Music Festival

• Indoor Music Venue

• Outdoor Music Venue

• Intimate Music Venue/ Listening Room

Arts & Crafts

• Arts/Crafts Fair or Event

• Studio Stroll/Driving Tour

• Craft School or Place to Learn a Craft

• Art Gallery

• Craft-Oriented Gallery

• Nonprofit (Not Music) That Serves the Arts

Film, Stage, Dance & Writing

• Movie Theater

• Local Filmmaker

• Theater Company

• Actor (any gender)

• Comedian

• Improv Group/Comedy Troupe or Series

• Local Comedy Show/ Night/Event

• Open-Mic-Night Venue

• Trivia Night Emcee

• Drag Performer/Group

• Karaoke Night

• Performance Dance Company

• Place to Take Dance Classes or Lessons

• Local Literary Event

• Local Author

• Local Poet

Musicians & Bands

• All-Round Favorite Band

• Acoustic/Folk

• Americana/Country

• Blues

• Local Busker/Street Group

• DJ (Nonradio)

• Funk

• Jazz

• Old-Time/Bluegrass

• R&B/Soul

• Rock

• Hip-Hop

• Punk/Metal/Garage

• Lyricist (Songwriter)

• Vocalist (Singer)

* Traditional Appalachian Musician

• Guitarist

• Bass Guitarist

• Keyboardist/Pianist

• Percussionist-Drummer Music Services

• Musical Instrument Repair Company

• Recording Studio

• Music-Related Nonprofit Artists, Crafters

• Fiber Artist

• Jewelry Artist/Designer

• Metal Artist or Blacksmith

• Mural Artist

• Painter/Illustrator

• Potter/Ceramic Artist

• Woodworker

• Glass Artist or Studio

• Wedding/Event Photographer

• Portrait/Headshot Photographer

• Still Life/Nature Photographer DRINKS Bars

• Bar That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

• Bar for Live Music

• Bar With a View

• Bar With Games

• LGBTQ+ Friendly Bar

• Hotel Bar

• Dive Bar

• Sports Bar

• Upscale Bar

• Wine Bar

• Family-Friendly Bar or Brewery

• Bar: Local Beer Selection (excluding breweries)

• Bar: Unusual Beer Selection (excluding breweries)

* = New Category

• Neighborhood Bar - North

• Neighborhood Bar - East

• Neighborhood Bar - South

• Neighborhood Bar - West

• Neighborhood BarDowntown (including South Slope)

• Neighborhood BarRiver Arts District

• Bartender

• Bar or Brewery That Gives Back to the Community Beer, Cider & Breweries

• Local All-Round Brewery (for its beers)

• Brewery (for its taproom & atmosphere)

• Creative, Experimental Brewery

• Brewmaster

• Favorite Local Beer Event

• Local Beer (Any Style)

• Local Dark Beer

• Local Lager

• Local Sour Beer

• Local IPA

• Seasonal Beer

• Beer Store

• Cidery

• Local Cider Cocktails, Spirits & Wine

• Cocktails

• Bloody Mary

• Margarita

• Local Winery

• Wine Store

• Distillery Coffee, Tea & Healthy Drinks

• Coffeehouse for Its Vibe

• Establishment With the Best Coffee

• Barista

• Coffee Roaster

• Place to Drink Tea

* Bubble Tea

• Smoothies/Juices

• Mocktails or Nonalcoholic Options

• Local Nonalcoholic Drink or Soda

• CBD Drinks/Health Elixirs

EATS

• Favorite Restaurant

• Bagels

• Barbecue

• Best Value

• Biscuits

• Breakfast

• Brunch

• Burger

• Burrito

• Catering Company

• Cheesemaker/ Cheese Dairy

• Chef

• Restaurant Comfort Food

• Desserts

• Diner/Homestyle

• Doughnuts

• Fine Dining/Upscale

• Food Truck

• French Fries

• Fried Chicken

• Healthiest Food

• Hot Bar/Buffet

• Hot Dogs

• Green/SustainabilityFriendly Restaurant

• Kid-Friendly Restaurant

• Late-Night Eats

• Local-Food Emphasis

• Lunch

• Outdoor Dining

• Pasta

• People-Watching Restaurant

• Pizza

• Pub Grub

• Quick Meal

• Ribs

• Restaurant to Take Out-of-Towners to

• Restaurant Still Needed in Asheville

• New Restaurant (Opened in the Last 12 Months)

• Restaurant That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

• Restaurant Cocktail Selection

• Restaurant Wine Selection

• Restaurant With a View

* Quiet Restaurant

• Ramen

• Romantic Dining

• Salad

#AVL STRONG

• Sandwich Shop

• Seafood

• Best Service

• Special Diet Options (Gluten-Free, LactoseFree, etc.)

* Steak

• Sub Shop

• Taco

• Takeout

• Vegan

• Vegetarian

• Veggie Burger

• Wings

• Local Cookie Maker

• Local Food Product

• Nonprofit Helping With Hunger Issues

• Pastry Chef

• Fresh Meat Seller

• Fresh Fish Seller

• Local Food Festival or Event

• Locally Made CBD Treats

• Local Meal Delivery Service Neighborhoods

• Restaurant in Downtown (including South Slope)

• Restaurant in the River Arts District

• Restaurant in West Asheville

• Restaurant in North Asheville

• Restaurant in East Asheville

• Restaurant in South Asheville Cuisine

• Chinese

• French

• Greek

• Indian

• Italian

• Japanese

• Latin American

• Mexican

• Middle Eastern

• Southern

• Sushi

• Thai

Desserts & Sweets

• Ice Cream

• Frozen Treats Other Than Ice Cream

• Chocolate Bakeries

• Bakery (Sweets/Desserts)

• Bakery (Bread)

FARM, YARD & GARDEN

• Tailgate/Farmers Market

• Roadside Farm Stand

• Farm to Visit

• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Farm

• Orchard

• Community Garden

• Garden Supply Store

• Mulch Supplier

• Nursery (Trees, Shrubs)

• Lawn/Yard Care

• Landscaping Service (Other Than Lawn Care)

• Tree Service

• Nonprofit Supporting Farms/Farmland Preservation

HEALTH & WELLNESS

• Physician (General Practice)

• Physician (Specialist)

• Dental Practice

• Dentist

• Pediatrician

• Eye Care Specialist/Service

• Chiropractor

• Acupuncture Clinic

• Acupuncturist

• Nutritionist

• Holistic Medical Practice

• Family Medical Practice

• Women's Health Center

• Maternity Care/Service

• Membership Health Care Provider

• Hospital

• Emergency Room

• Urgent Care/Walk-In Clinic

• Place to Get Medical Care

When Under- or Uninsured

• Therapist or Counseling Center

• Hospice

• Mortuary/Funeral Services

• Yoga Studio

• Yoga Teacher

* Pilates Studio

• Massage Therapist

• Physical Therapy Clinic

• Physical Therapist

• Fitness Studio With Classes

• Gym or Place to Work Out

• Physical Trainer

• Martial Arts Studio

• Place to Buy Supplements, Vitamins & Herbs

• Place to Center Yourself

• Place to Buy CBD Products

• Assisted-Living Community

• Pharmacy/Drugstore

• Health & WellnessFocused Nonprofit

KIDS

• Child Care or Day Care Service

• Music Teacher

• Art Education Program

• Dance Studio

• Gymnastics Program

• Martial Arts Program

• Team-Sports Program

• Kids Clothes

• Toy Store

• Pediatric PracticeGeneral Medicine

• Pediatric Practice

- Dentistry

• Orthodontist Schools & Classes

• School (Precollege)

• Preschool

• After-school Program Places

• Day Camp

• Overnight Camp

• Daytrip for Kids

• Place for Indoor Fun

• Place for Outdoor Fun

• Playground

• Kid-Friendly Hike

• Museum

• Place for Birthday Parties

• Bakery for Birthday Cakes

• Parents Night Out Program

MEDIA

• Local Radio Station (commercial)

• Local Radio Station (noncommercial)

• Local News Source

• Local News Website

• Local Reporter (Print and/or Online)

• Local Events Information Source

• Local Social Media Page to Follow for Local News, Events and Local Happenings

* Local E-Newsletter

• Local Podcast

• Local Print Publication Other Than Xpress

• Most Important Local News Story (in the Last 12 Months)

• Most Overreported Story (in the Last 12 Months)

• Most Underreported Story (in the Last 12 Months)

• Local Radio Personality/ Announcer

• Local TV Personality/ Announcer

• Favorite Feature in Xpress OUTDOORS

• Day Hike Trail

• Backpacking Trail/ Overnight Hike

• Picnic Spot

• Waterfall

• Walk - In or Near Asheville

• Easy Hike Trail (For Kids, Elders, Limited Mobility)

• Camping Spot

• Place to Relax on the Water

• Swimming Hole

• Mountain Bike Trail

• Place to Roller Skate or Skateboard

• Rafting Company

• Outdoor Gear and Apparel Shop

• Canopy Tour/Zip Line

• Ski Resort

• Environmental or Conservation Nonprofit

PERSONAL SERVICES

• Hair Salon

• Hairstylist

• Barber

• Barbershop

• Tattoo Parlor/Studio

• Tattoo Artist

• Piercing Studio

• Spa

• Local Body-Products Maker

• Esthetician

• Nail Salon

• Nail Technician

• Eyebrow Shaping

PETS

Medical

• Veterinary Services

• Veterinarian

VOTE NOW!

• Alternative Pet Health Care Provider Services

• Pet Kennel

• Pet Day Care Facility

• Grooming Service

• Pet Sitting/Dog Walking Service

• Trainer/Training Center

• Animal Shelter/Rescue Organization

Places & Shops

• Pet Supply Store

• Outdoor Place to Take Your Pet

• Pet-Friendly Bar or Brewery

PROFESSIONAL & HOME SERVICES

• Accountant/CPA Firm

• Place to Have Your Taxes Prepared

• Alternative Energy Sales and Installation

• Bike Repair

• Car Repair

• Cellphone Service Provider for the WNC Mountains

• Computer Repair

• Construction Firm (Design and/or Build)

• Dry Cleaner

• Electrical/Electrician Company

• Equipment Rental Services

• Financial Adviser

• Green Builder

• Handyperson

• Heating/Cooling Company

• Home Cleaning Service

• Home Inspection Service

• Home Restoration/ Improvement/Renovation

• House Painters

• Insurance Agent

• Junk Removal Service

• Law Firm

• Family Law Attorney

• Real Estate Attorney

• Estate Planning Attorney

• Moving Company

• Pest Control Service

• Place To Get Your Oil Changed

• Plumbing Company

• Print Shop

• Real Estate Company

• Real Estate Agent

• Roofing Company

SHOPPING

• Store That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

• Clothing: Used or Vintage (for-profit store)

• Clothing: Used or Vintage (nonprofit store)

• Clothing: Dress-Up/Stylin'

• Asheville-Style Clothes

• Shoe Store

• Jewelry Store

• All-Round Grocery Store

• Local Grocery Delivery or Curbside Pickup

• Budget-Friendly Grocery Store

• Health Food Store

• International/Specialty Food Store

• Convenience/Corner Store

• New Furniture Store

• Used Furniture Store (for-profit store)

• Used Furniture Store (nonprofit store)

• Refurbished Or Upcycled Goods

• Antique Store

• Mall-Style Market

• Automobile Tire Store

• Auto Dealer - New and/or Used

• Adult Toys, Lingerie & Naughty Things Store

• Bed and Mattress Store

• Bike Shop

• Bookstore - New

• Bookstore - Used

• Comics & Collectibles Store

• Game Store

• Florist/Plant Shop

• Gift Shop

• Head Shop

• Musical Instrument Store

• Pawn Shop

• Picture Framer

• Record/CD Store

UNIQUELY ASHEVILLE

• Neighborhood

• Biggest Threat to Asheville's Uniqueness

• Biggest Opportunity for Asheville's Uniqueness

• Best Thing to Happen to Asheville in the Last 12 Months

• Worst Thing to Happen to Asheville in the Last 12 Months

• Nonprofit That Improves Asheville

• Nonprofit That Serves the Underprivileged

• Local Fundraising Event

• Activist Group for Civic/Political Action

• Local Asheville Attraction

• Place to Take Your Eccentric Friends

• Holiday EventSpring/Summer

• Holiday EventFall/Winter

• Project You'd Like to See Local Government Do

• Local Hero

• Local Politician

• Local Villain

• Bumper Sticker or Slogan About Asheville

• Place to Get Married

• Street for a Stroll

• Place to Connect With Nature Within or Near to Asheville

• Place to Pretend You're a Tourist

• Thing Downtown Asheville Needs

• Thing West Asheville Needs

• Thing North Asheville Needs

• Thing South Asheville Needs

• Thing East Asheville Needs

• Thing the River Arts District Needs

• Local City Tour

• Hotel

• B&B or Small Boutique Hotel

• Historic/Interesting Building

• Venue to Book for a Party or Event

• Event/Wedding Planner

WORK & BUSINESS

• Employment Sector to Work in

• Business That Best Represents the Spirit of Asheville

• Business That Gives Back to the Community

• Bank

• Credit Union

• Bank/Financial Services for Small Business

• Co-Op/Employeeowned Business

• Support Organization for Entrepreneurs and New Businesses

REGIONAL

Questions for the following regions: Brevard Burnsville Hendersonville/ Flat Rock/Mills River Hot Springs Marshall/Mars Hill Swannanoa/ Black Mountain Cullowhee/Sylva Waynesville/Maggie Valley/Canton Weaverville/Woodfin

• Business That Best Represents the Spirit of Your Town

• Breakfast Restaurant

• Lunch Restaurant

• Dinner Restaurant

• Coffee & Sweets

• Local Bar/Brewery/ Watering Hole

• Music/Entertainment Venue

• Retail Store

• Art Gallery

• Cultural or Historical Landmark

• Cultural or Arts Event

• Local Place to Enjoy the Outdoors

• Local Cause to Support

• Best Thing to Happen to Your Town in the Last 12 Months

When does voting start and end?

Voting officially begins April 1 and continues through April 30.

In how many categories must I vote in order for my ballot to be counted?

Each ballot must have votes for at least 30 categories to be counted.

Why do voters have to vote for 30 categories?

We want meaningful results from people who are invested in and knowledgeable about the Asheville/WNC area.

How do I get a category added or changed? The categories are set for this year, but to suggest a change for next year, email: bestofwnc@ mountainx.com

How are the votes counted? Mountain Xpress tallies the votes by hand, taking great care to understand each voter’s intent. We reserve the right to reject any ballot with inappropriate responses.

How do you prevent voter fraud?

Ballots are examined for telltale signs of voter fraud or ballot stuffing. We disqualify all ballots that appear to be fraudulent.

I hope my business wins. How do I get voting promotional materials? Call us at 828-251-1333. We can provide you with printable and digital materials, or contact your sales representative for information.

APRIL. 2 - APRIL. 10, 2025

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

 More info, page 39

 More info, page 40

WELLNESS

Therapeutic Recreation Adult Morning Movement

Wednesday mornings are all about active games, physical activities, and sports adapted to accommodate all skill levels.

WE (4/2, 9), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34

Gentle Tai Chi for Balance

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

balance muscles.

WE (4/2, 9), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Pearson Ave

Qigong

Gentle form of exercise composed of movement, posture, breathing, and meditation used to promote health and spirituality.

WE (4/2, 9), 11:15am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Tai Chi Fan

This class includes partner work showing the martial application of the fans when they are used as a weapon and Flying Rainbow

Sustainability Series

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Double Fan form.

WE (4/2, 9), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Balance, Agility, Strength, Stretch

This weekly class for adults focuses on flexibility, balance, stretching, and strength. Bring your own exercise mat.

WE (4/2, 9), 10am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Tai Chi For Beginners Yang 10 & 24

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

TH (4/3, 10), MO (4/7), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Qi Gong for Overall Health & Wellness

A gentle practice to synchronize movement with breath. Learn how to relax your mind and body through slow intentional movements.

FR (4/4), 9am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Intermediate Tai Chi Yang 24

This is the Tai Chi that most people envision when they think of Tai Chi. Slow, gentle movements that promote good health.

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

Intermediate Tai Chi Yang 37

A great class for those who have studied Yang 37 or would like a form that is a little bit more involved than Yang 10 or 24.

SA (4/5), 8:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Kirtan w/Mantra Mandala

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

CITY LIGHTS POETRY READINGS: Celebrated poet Jaki Shelton Green, ninth poet laureate of North Carolina and first African American to be appointed to that position, visits City Lights Bookstore in Sylva on Saturday, April 5, starting at 3 p.m. Green will be joined by poet Narya Rose Deckard, winner of Broken Tribe Press’s MFA Graduate Award. Both will read poems from their collections. Photo of Green courtesy of City Lights Bookstore

devotion.

SA (4/5), 7:30pm, W Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd

Himalayan Sound Bath

Meditation

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

SA (4/5), SU (4/6), 11am, Somatic Sounds, 157 S Lexington Ave Barn Yoga

Community yoga class with Fairview-based yogi Mary Beth, who

Let’s Be Blount (jazz)

Frog Level Brewing, Waynesville Tuesday, April 8 • 5:30 p.m.

Live jazz music with Asheville-based jazz singer Kass Blount and her band.

“I’ve been to countless gigs by Asheville-based jazz singer Kass Blount, and she continues to wow me each time. Her vocals, paired with the bass and guitar of the jazzy trio Let’s Be Blount, will hit you right in the soul as you sip by the creek.” — Brionna Dallara X

Tai Chi Open Clinic

All are welcome in this new curriculum course, regardless of the style of internal martial arts you practice, your skill development or age level.

SU (4/6), 7pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Strength & Exercise

Workout at your own pace in a fun atmosphere in this weekly class for active adults working on overall fitness and strength.

MO (4/7), 9:15am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Medical Qigong

A moving meditation and an internal martial art for calming the mind and strengthening the body and spirit.

TU (4/8), 9am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

QiGong w/Allen Horowitz

The movements help improve circulation relaxation and balance. For more information contact allenhavatar@ gmail.com

TU (4/8), 10am, Asia House, 119 Coxe Ave

Nia Dance

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

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

teaches a gentle and vinyasa flow. Bring a mat, bring yourself, and get centered.

SU (4/6), 10am, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview

Sunday Morning

Meditation Group

Gathering for a combination of silent sitting and walking meditation, facilitated by Worth Bodie.

SU (4/6), 10am, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Yoga Taco Mosa Donation based yoga with Clare Desmelik. Bring your mat, a water bottle, and an open heart.

SU (4/6), 10am, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

Serenity Sound Bath

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

SU (4/6), 1pm, $25, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way

Sound Bath & Gentle Flow

A gentle yoga flow that prepares your heart, mind, and body for deep relaxation to the live acoustic vibrations of various instruments.

SU (4/6), 7pm, W Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd

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

TH (4/3, 10), 6:30pm, American Legion Post #2, 851 Haywood Rd

NAMI Connection

Trained peer facilitators guide you in learning how to empower yourself in a place that offers respect, understanding, encouragement, and hope.

SA (4/5), TU (4/8), 10am, NAMI - WNC, 356 Biltmore Ave

Magnetic Minds: Depression & Bipolar Support Group

A free weekly peer-led meeting for those living with depression, bipolar, and related mental health challenges. For more information contact (828) 367-7660. SA (4/5), 2pm, First Congregational UCC of Asheville, 20 Oak St

Infant Feeding Support Group w/ Asheville Lactation Consulting & ACNC

Learn helpful approaches to feeding from a local International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and other mothers.

TU (4/8), 10am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Zumba Gold & Silverobics

Calorie-burning, fun, low-impact class that incorporates dance and fitness for older adults each week.

TU (4/8), noon, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Drumming for Exercise

Jam to some tunes while getting a great, low-impact arm and core workout.

TU (4/8), 1:30pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Community Yoga & Mindfulness

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

WE (4/9), 10:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

SUPPORT GROUPS

Nicotine Anonymous

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

TH (4/3, 10), 4:30pm, Asheville 12-Step Recovery Club, 1 Kenilworth Knolls Unit 4

Marijuana Anonymous

A safe, supportive, inclusive, and non-judgmental space to share,

Intro to Line Dance

A true beginners course for those who are new to line dance taught by Liz Atkinson.

MO (4/7), 10:30am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Monday Night Contra Dance

A welcoming environment for anyone who would like to contra dance. Lessons start at 7 p.m. and a social dance starts at 7:30 p.m.

MO (4/7), 7:30pm, A-B Tech, Genevieve Circle

Tap Dance: Beginner Tap dance for beginners teaches the basics through a combination of exercise, music, and incredible fun.

TU (4/8), 10am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Tap Dance: Intermediate Fun and active class for students who have already taken beginner tap here or elsewhere.

TU (4/8), 10:45am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Tap Dance: Advanced Beginner Fun and active twice-weekly class for advanced students.

TH (4/10), 11:45am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

ART

Community Narcan Training

An important training led by Sunrise Recovery and hosted by AmeriHealth Caritas. Learn how to use Naloxone, an introduction into harm reduction, what’s going on in our community and more.

TU (4/8), noon,, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

DANCE

Latin Night Wednesday w/DJ Mtn Vibez

A Latin dance social featuring salsa, bachata, merengue, cumbia, and reggaeton with dance lessons for all skill levels.

WE (4/2, 9), 8pm, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd

Tap Dance: Advanced Beginner Fun and active twice-weekly class for advanced students. Students provide their own tap shoes.

TH (4/3), 11:45am, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Asheville Community Square Dance w/Live Old-Time Band

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

SA (4/5), 7pm, Haw Creek Commons, 315 Old Haw Creek Rd

2025 School of Art & Design Faculty Biennial

This exhibition provides students and the community an opportunity to view recent work created by distinguished faculty members whose primary research output is studio-based. Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through May, 2. WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee Asheville Strong: Celebrating Art & Community After Hurricane Helene An exhibition of artwork by artists who live and work in the Helene-affected Appalachia region. This special, non-juried exhibition celebrates the strength and diversity of our regional arts community. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through May. 5, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square Viewshed Exhibition The exhibition highlights works that span painting, textile, sound, and performance, inviting viewers to consider the ways in which artistic methodologies evolve and reverberate across time. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through August,

16, 2025.

Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St

Sustenance: Opening

Reception

Celebrate the launch of this inspiring gallery exhibit that explores the many facets of nourishment through the eyes of local artists and creators.

FR (4/4), 5pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Viewshed: Opening

Reception

Enjoy refreshments provided by Curious Elixirs, creators of sophisticated alcohol-free craft beverages, while previewing their new summer exhibition.

FR (4/4), 5:30pm, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St

Tattoo/Flash Exhibition

This exhibition showcases the cultural significance of tattoos, highlighting their ability to bridge tradition and innovation, personal expression, and visual storytelling. Gallery open daily, 11am. Exhibition through April 23.

Blue Spiral 1, 38 Biltmore Ave

Let's Paint!

Painting class for beginner to intermediate painters. Use you choice of media (acrylic, oil or watercolor).

MO (4/7), 1pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Paint & Sip w/ Hopscotch

This class is for everyone, no prior painting experience needed. Come and enjoy a delightful afternoon of painting, sipping, and socializing.

MO (4/7), 1pm, Black Mountain YMCA, 25 Jane Jacobs Rd Black Mountain

Heather Hietala: Explorations

This exhibit invites viewers into a world of vessels, paddles, and forms that symbolize life’s journeys, transitions, and relationships. Gallery open Monday through Friday, 8:30am. Exhibition through April, 18.

John M. Crawford Jr. Gallery, 360 Asheville School Rd

Anti Form: Robert Morris’s Earth Projects

The suite of lithographic drawings by Robert Morris presents a series of ideas for ten works of art shaped out of earth, atmospheric conditions, and built environments. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through May 2025.

Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Sustenance Exhibition

Sustenance invites artists to explore and interpret the many dimensions of nourishment—physical, emotional, spiritual, and communal. Gallery open Monday through Friday, 10 am, Exhibition through April 25.

Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Open Art Studio

Bring your favorite medium and work in a collaborative environment to improve your individual talent.

Whether it’s paint, pencils, pastel, paper mache, whatever inspires you.

TH (4/10), 1pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

COMMUNITY MUSIC

Andrew Finn Magill & David McKindley-Ward

An evening of pure drop traditional Irish Music with Andrew Finn Magill, an award-winning multi-genre fiddler/violinist and award-winning musician and singer, David McKindley-Ward.

TH (4/3), 7pm, Folkmoot Auditorium, 112 Virginia Ave, Waynesville

Drumming Circle & Labyrinth

Gather to create spontaneous music together, exploring rhythms and building connections. All skill levels are welcome.

FR (4/4), 5pm, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way

ACMS Presents: The Aspen String Trio

This visionary trio is back in Asheville to deliver another round of virtuosic performance with its signature humor and insight.

FR (4/4), 7:30pm, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville, 1 Edwin Pl

What’s Shaking? Music

Present: Spring Fling

An afternoon of music and fun for kids and their adults. The full What's Shaking band will be onstage with poems, songs, and dances for pre-K (and cool kids of all ages).

SA (4/5), 2pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10

Asheville Jazz Collective

The Asheville Jazz Collective, directed by composer and drummer Alan Hall, will give a performance of jazz music, with Hall, Will Boyd, Dylan Hannan, Al Watsky, Josef Butts, and Jason DeCristofaro.

SA (4/5), 3pm, Kittredge Arts Center, 701 Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa Asheville Baroque Concerts Asheville Baroque Concerts presents an eclectic program

of Baroque music on original instruments.

SU (4/6), 3pm, St Giles Chapel, In the Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community, 1617 Hendersonville Rd

Pianist Zlata Chochieva in Recital

An enchanting evening with pianist Zlata Chochieva, a world-renowned artist praised for her poetic touch, technical brilliance, and depth of expression.

TU (4/8), 7:30pm, Parker Concert Hall at Brevard Music Center, 349 Andante Ln, Brevard

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

LARAAJI & Arji

Oceananda’s Laughter Meditation Playshop

A unique workshop featuring guided call and response chanting, internal ‘laughtercises,’ and playful interaction soundtracked by music.

WE (4/2), 7pm, AyurPrana Listening Room, 312 Haywood Rd

The Magic of Manifesting w/Virginia Oman

Learn invaluable tips and insights on harnessing the Universe’s energy to work for you. This is your chance to

learn from someone who has truly mastered the art of manifestation.

WE (4/2), 7pm, Center for Spiritual Living Asheville, 2 Science Mind Way

Embroiderers’ Guild of America: Laurel Chapter

The program will be a Time of Free Stitching Chapter members are encouraged to bring their current needle art projects and stitch in a group setting.

TH (4/3), 9:30am, Grace Lutheran Church, 1245 Sixth Ave W, Hendersonville

Change Your Palate Cooking Demo

This free lunchtime food demonstration is open to all but tailored towards those with type 2 diabetes or hypertension and/or their caretakers.

TH (4/3), noon, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Friday Night Spike Volleyball

This program teaches girls and boys fundamentals of volleyball including bumping, setting, spiking, blocking, and other techniques.

FR (4/4), 5:30pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Creating Small-scale Gardens & Containers w/Native Plants

Ecologist and gardening expert Lisa Wagner will teach you how to choose plants, locations, sizes and types of containers, and how to design in proximity to boulders, paths, or other hardscape features to maximize the natural appeal of small-scale native plantings.

SA (4/5), 10am, Asheville Botanical Garden, 151 WT Weaver Blvd.

Intro to Pickleball

Players will learn the rules, and get the chance to develop a feel for pickleball. This program is not a clinic, but has an open play format.

SA (4/5), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

SCORE: How to Find Your Customers

Discover the variety of market research tools that will give you critical information about your industry and customers.

SA (4/5), 10am, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler

Therapeutic Recreation Adult Crafting

A variety of cooking and crafts, available at two different times.

Advance registration required. Open to individuals ages 17+ with disabilities.

TU (4/8), 10am and 11am, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd

Find the Right Job for You

Career counselors help teens and young adults create resumes, learn how to fill out job applications, and refine job searches based on skills and interests.

TU (4/8), 6pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Jewelry Making w/ Laurie

Make a bracelet, necklace or earrings for yourself or as a gift. Registration required, but all materials are included with the class fee.

WE (4/9), noon, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Exploring Social Self Awareness Workshop w/YMCA

A dynamic and interactive workshop that invites you to explore and understand

the factors that shape our social interactions, both consciously and unconsciously.

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

LITERARY

Andrew Krinks: White Property, Black Trespass

Author Andrew Krinks will discuss his book, White Property, Black Trespass. This book uncovers the inherently religious structure of the criminalization of Black, Indigenous and dispossessed peoples.

FR (4/4), 6pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St, Sylva Poetry with Jaki Shelton Green & Narya Deckard Jaki will read from the poem Communion of White Dresses and her collection breath of the song, while Narya will read from her debut poetry collection, Wolfcraft SA (4/5), 3pm, City Lights Bookstore, 3 E Jackson St, Sylva Cherokee History & Stories Museum of the Cherokee People welcomes storyteller and historian Kathi Littlejohn (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) for Cherokee History & Stories, a free educational series.

SU (4/6), 3pm, Museum of the Cherokee People, 589 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee

Flooded Poetry

Each poet will be able to share 2-3 poems, and occasionally we will have local celebrity poets close out our night with a featured reading.

MO (4/7), 6:30pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd Ste 1200

THEATER & FILM

The Lehman Trilogy

This epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous

successes and devastating failure of the financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.

WE (4/2), TH (4/3), SA (4/5), 7pm, FR (4/4), SU (4/6), 2pm, North Carolina Stage Co., 15 Stage Ln Petit Mondrian: Theatre for Young Children

An interactive and multimedia performance installation for children and their caregivers, which mixes dance-theater with the language of object theater, video animation and more.

TH (4/3, 10), FR (4/4), SA (4/6), WE (4/9), 10am, SU (4/6), 3pm, Tina McGuire Theatre, Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave

The 13th

This film looks at how the country's history or racial inequality drives the high rate of incarceration in America. Free to the public with refreshments and a discussion after the film.

TH (4/3), 6pm, Jackson County Public Library, 310 Keener St, Sylva Nancy Pheasant: Cherokee Storyteller Nancy is an incredibly talented and multifaceted indigenous artist and storyteller. Join her for an evening of traditional legends, creation and nature tales.

TH (4/3), 7pm, Weaverville Community Center, 60 Lakeshore Dr, Weaverville Foreign Film Fridays Every Friday visitors can enjoy a cozy movie night in the gallery featuring some amazing foreign films curated by film-buff Carlos Steward. FR (4/4), 7pm, Flood Gallery, 802 Fairview Rd, Ste 1200

My Head is Off: A Comedy Improv Show A night of laughter and silliness with TheatreUNCA's comedy improv troupe, led by

Marlene Thompson.

It will feature a series of short-form improv games informed by audience suggestions.

FR (4/4), SA (4/5), 7pm, Belk Theatre, UNC Asheville, 1 University Heights

Rage at the Stage: A Frenzied Evening of Improv Comedy

A super fun show featuring performances from Reasonably Priced Babies and Mudflap Monday. This show is all about showcasing improv teams in the region.

FR (4/4), 7pm, North Carolina Stage Co., 15 Stage Ln

Someone Who'll Watch Over Me

A powerful drama about three strangers imprisoned in Lebanon who, through humor, imagination, and unwavering support, find the strength to endure unimaginable hardship.

FR (4/4), SA (4/5), 7;30pm, SU (4/6), 2pm, Hart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville

Bad Faith: Christian Nationalism's Unholy War on Democracy

This film exposes Christian Nationalism, the most powerful anti-democratic fore in America.

TU (4/8), 6pm, Jackson County Public Library, 310 Keener St, Sylva Roots So Deep Screening

This event will include opportunities for networking, dinner, screenings of parts one and four of the docuseries, followed by a panel discussion around building climate resiliency.

WE (4/9), 5pm, UNC-Asheville, 1 University Heights

Kung-Fu Community Movie Night

A free showing of Iron Monkey. All are welcome.

TH (4/10), 7pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS

IBN Breakfast Club

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

WE (4/2), 8am, Mills River Restaurant, 4467 Boylston Hwy, Mills River

Dine N ' Learn: Are Your Affairs in Order?

How to Prepare for Your Future

Award winning attorney to provide free advice. Learn how to prepare for the future and leave a legacy. Participants must register for lunch.

WE (4/2), 5:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

First Wednesday w/ Big Asheville Science Salon

A monthly discussion involving the latest scientific discoveries and achievements, featuring a panel of experts in the field.

WE (4/2), 6pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd, Ste 10

WNC Sierra Club

Presents: International Birding & Climate Change

Simon Thompson, an international birding expert, will discuss surprising effects of climatic changes on North Carolina’s and the world’s wild bird populations.

WE (4/2), 7pm, Reuter Center, OLLI, UNC-A campus

Therapeutic Recreation Hiking

All hikes are between 1 to 2.5 miles with variable terrain. Transportation provided to site. Advance registration required.

TH (4/3), 10am, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd

Fiber Social

This is a casual meetup for experienced, intermediate and beginning crafters. Bring a project or pick one up to complete and meet new people or bring your friends.

TH (4/3), 10:30am, First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St

EveryDay Strong

A program that equips caring adults with training and tools to support the mental health and wellness of children aged 8 to 18.

TH (4/3), 1:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Free Sober Disc Golf

This is a great opportunity to get outside and get some exercise. It's also a fun time to meet others in recovery, build community and create connection.

TH (4/3), 3:30pm, Richmond Hill Park, 300 Richmond Hill Dr

Hurricane Helene Recovery Panel & Discussion w/ MountainTrue

A panel of experts to discuss recovery in our area after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Panelists will address the impacts of natural disasters, what recovery means for our region and how the community can support these efforts.

TH (4/3), 5:30pm, North Carolina Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way Self Defense for Queer, Non-Binary & Trans Folks

Instructor Freya Bairdsen wants to empower women, girls, and all marginalized genders with practical self defense skills, so they can take on their

next adventure with confidence.

TH (4/3), 5:30pm, All Bodies Movement and Wellness, 211 Merrimon Ave

Healthcare Professionals Networking & The Wellness Link

This event is for healthcare, medical, and wellness workers of various capacities to meet up and enjoy networking, sharing experiences, providing support, and building relationships.

TH (4/3), 6pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

Art & The Enneagram: Nine Perspectives on Creativity

Presenters will speak about how the Enneagram has shaped their creative journeys and share a piece of original work.

TH (4/3), 7pm, Story Parlor, 227 Haywood Rd

From Debris to Renewal: A Post-Storm Action Plan

Bullington Gardens and Family Tree Care are hosting a series of free educational events to help  landowners, homeowners, and community members navigate the recovery process.

FR (4/4), 10am, Bullington Gardens, 95 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville Glow in the Park Egg Hunt

Instead of a traditional free-for-all egg hunt, you'll use a clue sheet to find eggs hidden throughout the park. Some eggs contain special raffle tickets with chances to win egg-citing prizes.

FR (4/4), 7:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Gardening Outside the Lines Symposium

This symposium brings together amateur backyard gardeners and gardening professionals for a day of insightful presentations featuring dynamic speakers who are leaders in their field.

SA (4/5), 8am, McDowell Technical Community College, 54 College Dr Marion

Valley History Explorer Hike #2

This hike focuses on the history of Montreat, which was founded in 1897 by Rev. John Collins. The remnants of the Montreat hydroelectric facilities that were constructed in 1913 and in use until 1947 are visible on this moderate, 2.5-mile hike.

SA (4/5), 9am, Swannanoa Valley Museum, 223 W State St, Black Mountain

Naturalist Hikes

Enjoy short, slow-paced hikes led by experienced naturalists to identify plants, animal tracks, bird songs, and

other phenomena of Southern Appalachia.

SA (4/5), 10am, Location TBA.

Chinese Tea & Tai Chi Foundations

Settle your Qi with Chinese tea while learning the fundamentals of Tai Chi to improve your health. Beginner friendly so all levels are welcome.

SA (4/5), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste109 Family Open Gym

Weekly time in the gym reserved for all ages to shoot hoops and play other active games as a family.

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

Alive After 55+

A program for active older adults to socialize, play board games and puzzles, create in group art activities, and more.

MO (4/7), TU (4/8), 10am, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

Walking the Great Lakes of WNC

Bring walking shoes and friends to see the lakes of western North Carolina. This program is for any individual who is looking to get a good workout in while enjoying the scenery.

MO (4/7), TU (4/8), 10am, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd Attention, Awareness & Ending Suffering David will lead a conversation with the group on the dharma, with many opportunities to ask questions, share insights, or listen and learn.

MO (4/7), 6:30pm, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Random Acts of Flowers: Floral

Arrangements for Those Needing a Smile Random Acts of Flowers improves the emotional health and well-being of individuals in healthcare facilities by delivering recycled flowers, encouragement, and personal moments of kindness.

TU (4/8), 10am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

IBN Biz Lunch: Candler

Bring a stack of business cards, and if you like, a door prize to add to our drawing at the end of the meeting.

TU (4/8), 11:30am, Elena's Mexican Grill, 101 Westridge Market Place, Candler Conserving Carolina: Protecting Lands For Nature & People

Pam Torlina, Community Engagement Director for Conserving Carolina, will discuss how this vital land conservancy protects special places for the mutual benefit

Silver linings

Rev. Dusty Black on the role

The Rev. Dusty Black has served First Baptist Church of Marshall for the past five years. He is a graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Xpress: How has Tropical Storm Helene and the ongoing recovery efforts informed the type of outreach and messaging you are offering your congregants?

Black: In the wake of the storm, our ministry developed two arms. For one, we looked inward and cared for our people by meeting needs through sermons dealing with trusting God amidst trials and by renovating our flooded building. The other arm of ministry is service in the community. After the storm, we mobilized in our efforts to love our community with the love of Jesus. It has been a busy six months of living to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

What passages do you regularly turn to in times of need?

of faith,

post-Helene

EVER FAITHFUL: “After the storm, my heart turned to Psalm 70,” says the Rev. Dusty Black. “The psalmist is pleading with God for victory over his enemies, as well as praying that the Lord would be worshipped.”

Photo courtesy of Black

After the storm, my heart turned to Psalm 70. The psalmist is pleading with God for victory over his enemies, as well as praying that the Lord would be worshipped. My prayer was that God would have victory over fear and the various challenges and that we would also worship as we walked through hardship. The other passage has been Genesis 37-50, as we have been encouraged in how God worked through trials in the life of Joseph.

What gives you hope for the future of WNC?

WNC has responded with such resilience! I have respect for so many for how they have weathered the storm and worked to rebuild. I have also been encouraged to see God move and work. This time seems to have led to people looking at the state of their faith, and I believe that is a positive that has come from this terrible event. X

Home Delivery

of people and the natural world.

TU (4/8), 7pm, OLLI/ Reuter Center, UNCA, 300 Campus View Rd

Digital Literacy 101

In this class, you'll learn how to use the internet, stay safe online, and work with different software programs.

WE (4/9), noon, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

WNC Home Energy Resilience Cooperative Information Session

A series of group purchasing campaigns designed to aid residents in their rebuilding efforts by providing high quality clean energy electrification products and services from vetted local contractors.

WE (4/9), 4:30pm, 3 Avon Rd, 3 Avon Rd

Support National Parks: Networking & Conservation Chat

Southern Appalachian Director of the NPCA, Jeff Huntley will lead a discussion about you can save our public lands. Several local and national conservancy organizations will take the stage to share who they are and what they do.

WE (4/9), 5:30pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd, Ste 10

NSA-WNC Meeting

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

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

IBN Biz Lunch: Brevard & Pisgah Forest

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

TH (4/10), 11:30am, free, Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom, 91 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest

Mindfulness Stretching

Participate in a free exercise designed to help you drop into the present moment. Exercises may rotate from week to week.

TH (4/10), noon, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave Provider Networking Night Connect with other local providers to better serve your clients, patients, and customers.

TH (4/10), 5pm, All Bodies Movement and Wellness, 211 Merrimon Ave

GAMES & CLUBS

Mahjong Club

Exercise your mind with a game of skill, strategy, and chance. Mahjong is also a fun way to improve memory and sharpen your mind.

WE (4/2), 1pm, Woodfin YMCA, 40 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 101

Burton Street Bingo

Whether you’re a seasoned bingo player or new to the game, this is a great opportunity to socialize, have some fun, and walk away with a prize.

SA (4/5), noon, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St Bid Whist

Make bids, call trumps, and win tricks. Every Saturday for fun competition with the community.

SA (4/5), 1pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St Weekly Sunday Scrabble!

Weekly scrabble play where you’ll be paired with players of your skill level. All scrabble gear provided.

SU (4/6), 1:30pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Therapeutic Recreation Walking Club

Get your steps in while making new friends

around WNC. All walks are one mile or less with fully accessible paths. Transportation provided to the site.

MO (4/7), 10am, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd

Indoor Walking for Wellness Club

Weather doesn’t matter when you have a community gym. Let us crank up the tunes to get you motivated.

TH (4/10), 9:15am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

KID-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS

Tiny Tykes Wednesday Play Dates

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

WE (4/2, 9), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Family Story Time

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

WE (4/2, 9), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain Kung Fu For Children

Designed to begin with the foundations of these styles while also teaching application and self awareness.

WE (4/2, 9), 3pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Art-Pow!

Kids will be invited to expand their creativity, build confidence and engage with arts as a tool for change in an interactive way.

WE (4/2, 9), TH (4/3,10), MO (4/7), TU (4/8), 3:30pm, Story Parlor, 227 Haywood Rd

Baby Storytime

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

TH (4/3, 10), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Toddler & Me Time Out

This open gym time allows toddlers and caregivers to make memories and new friends through structures and unstructured activities.

FR (4/4), 10am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Kids Yoga & Art Pop Up: Buzz Like A Bee Children will learn tools for self-regulation, build social-emotional skills, and practice a variety of breath-work and mindfulness techniques to use throughout their daily life.

SA (4/5), noon, West Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd

Coloring w/Cats: Kiddie Edition

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

SA (4/5), 1pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

MoveAbility: Weekly Dance Class

Everyone is welcome to explore movement, creativity and self express through dance. Intended for kids ages 5 and up, though.

MO (4/7), 5:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain Toddler Discovery Time

This open gym time allows toddlers and caregivers to make memories and new friends through structures and unstructured activities. This weeks features funny bunnies. TU (4/8), 10am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Youth Glow Climbing First time climbers welcome as the climbing wall glows under black lights. Advance registration required.

WE (4/9), 6pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Black Cat Tales: Story Time w/Cats

A special after-school workshop where families with children age 7 and under can relax and foster a love of reading while also socializing with the cats in the lounge.

TH (4/10), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

LOCAL MARKETS

Harvest House Tea Party

Enjoy afternoon tea at Harvest House with snacks, laughs, and tea cup candle making.

WE (4/2), 2pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Blazing Star Flowers

CSA Pick-Up

Get farm fresh flowers and support local agriculture at the same time. Enjoy them yourself or give as a cheerful gift.

TH (4/3, 10), 3:30pm, Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr

Swannanoa Farmers Market

This market will feature farm-fresh produce, local honey, eggs, baked goods, and delicious eats. You'll also find handmade jewelry, artwork, fiber crafts, wooden utensils, yard art, apothecary essentials, and more.

SA (4/5), 8am, 216 Whitson Ave, 216 Whitson Ave, Swannanoa

Black Mountain Tailgate Spring Market

Weekly tailgate farmer's market, held every Saturday through April 12.

SA (4/5), 10am, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

North Asheville Tailgate Market

The oldest Saturday morning market in WNC, since 1980. Over 60 rotating vendors providing a full range of local, sustainably produced produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, plants and unique crafts.

SA (4/5), 10am, UNC Asheville, Lot P34, 275 Edgewood Rd

Spring Market

Browse local artisan goods and local produce while enjoying live music.

SA (4/5), 10am, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Junk-O-Rama Vintage Market

Browse vintage clothing vendors, local crafters, antiques and more.

SU (4/6), noon, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd

Meadow Market

This vibrant outdoor market features a curated selection of local makers and artisans.

SU (4/6), 1pm, The Meadow at Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200

Huge Book Market

The sale will feature thousands of new and gently used donated and past library books as well as a good selection of DVDs, music CDs, puzzles and games.

TH (4/10), 9:30am, Madison County Library, 1335 N Main St, Marshall

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Prom Dress Express

This event will feature new and gently used formal dresses, suits, tuxedos and accessories for free. Students needing help to afford prom are recommended to attend.

WE (4/2), noon, Eblen Charities, 23 Hamilton St Career Fair

Explore program information and job opportunities. Learn how you can turn your education into a local career.

WE (4/2), 3pm, Regional High Technology Center, 112 Industrial Park Dr, Waynesville

Spring Sip & Shop

This annual event offers an opportunity to witness the magic of local artists as they showcase their skills, indulge in complimentary beverages, and pick up unique gallery items.

FR (4/4), SA (4/5), 11am, Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd

2025 Citywide Dementia Spring Symposium

If you are living with dementia or are a caregiver or family member of someone with dementia, this symposium is for you.

SA (4/5), 8am, The Scenic Hotel at Biltmore Village, 186 Hendersonville Rd

Bunny Breakfast

Take professional photos with the human size Easter Bunny and enjoy delicious pancakes. Come celebrate the arrival of spring and make a wish for the future.

SA (4/5), 9am, UU Congregation of Asheville, 1 Edwin Place

Cradle of Forestry

Opening Day Celebration

Enjoy complimentary admission and programming at the Cradle of Forestry to celebrate opening day for the 2025 season.

SA (4/5), 10am, The Cradle of Forestry, 11250 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest

Paws of Legacy: Celebrating the Catman, Dr Harold W. Sims, Jr. This event will be honoring the life of Dr Harold W. Sims, Jr. It will be a fun filled celebration of life, 90th rainbow bridge birthday party and the launch of our Paws Of Legacy Endowment Campaign.

SA (4/5), 10am, American Museum of the House Cat, 5063 US Hwy 441 S, Sylva Connect Beyond Festival

A weekend-long festival full of performances, panels, film screenings and workshops exploring how the intersection of music, art, film and storytelling that can inspire positive change. View the full agenda of events atavl.mx/eok. See p40

SA (4/5), SU (4/6), Third Room, 46 Wall St Nationwide Day of Action

This protest demands action to remove the corrupt billionaires who are destroying our government. It will feature veterans rights activists Jay Carey and Will Nugent, plus speakers on immigration, climate, and health care and more.

SA (4/5), 11am, Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza

Spring Out '25

Enjoy the pop-up bike park, select a 'just right' route for you, and enjoy a tour of Asheville by bike. E-bikes are welcome.

SA (4/5), 1pm, Wedge Brewing Co., 125 B Roberts St

WNC Career Expo

The WNC Career Expo is free and open to all job seekers with no registration required to attend. Career seekers are encouraged to attend the WNC Career Expo to meet directly with hiring employers.

WE (4/9), 11am, WNC Agricultural Center, 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd Toddler Egg Hunt

Bring your basket to the playground for the annual Toddler Egg Hunt. Arrive promptly at 11:30am or you might miss it.

WE (4/9), 11:30am, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Jose’s 4th Annual

Lookin’ Good Showcase w/Burney Sisters

Visitors can expect

a BBQ dinner with a musical performance from teenaged duo the Burney Sisters and Irish singer-songwriter Dylan Walshe. Proceeds will benefit Thrive, a local nonprofit serving individuals with mental health issues. See p39

TH (4/10), 5:30pm, Continuum Art, 147 Ste C, 1st Ave East, Hendersonville

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING

Volunteer w/Energy Savers Network

Worksite volunteers perform energy-saving upgrades in groups for clients in and around Buncombe County. You will also learn helpful energy-saving measures like changing light-bulbs, weatherstripping doors, and insulating water heaters.

WE (4/2,9), TH (4/3, 10), TU (4/8), 11am, Buncombe County

Color Me Asheville: A Celebration of Healing and Community

A runway show featuring seven local design teams presenting collections using repurposed materials found at Goodwill. Proceeds benefit BeLoved Asheville.

FR (4/4), 7pm, The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave

Songs for Senderos: Supporting Guatemalan Youth

A benefit for Senderos, a nonprofit founded by David LaMotte and his wife. LaMotte and friends will also be providing music for the evening.

SA (4/5), 7pm,mWhite Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Oakley Community Closet

A cost-free opportunity to shop clothes, shoes, and toys. Donations for Oakley Community Closet happily accepted at Murphy-Oakley Community Center throughout the week.

WE (4/9), 1pm, Murphy-Oakley Community Center, 749 Fairview Rd

Southside Volunteer Day

Volunteer with RiverLink to maintain the native ecosystem and rain gardens in the Erskine Community.

Sign up at avl.mx/eo1.

TH (4/10), 10am, Herb Watts Park, 64 Erskine St

Waypoint Adventure Fundraising Party

Come celebrate the spirit and impact of Waypoint Adventure's programs, where individuals with disabilities are empowered to discover their purpose, value, strengths, and abilities—while finding belonging in a supportive and joyful community.

TH (4/10), 6pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10

Accepting New Patients

Most all Insurances accepted

SAGE

CITY // RIVER ROOTS BAND

Off the Shelf

Yes, this is a thriller — but it’s also so much more

BY KAYLA PRESSLEY SEAY

kayla.seay@dncr.nc.gov

Editor’s note: Welcome back to “Off the Shelf,” a new feature on literature. Unlike our regular book coverage, which spotlights Western North Carolina authors, “Off the Shelf” gives local readers the chance to recommend any title — regardless of the author’s connection to the area. This month’s recommender is Kayla Pressley Seay , site manager of the Thomas Wolfe Memorial.

Admittedly, when I’m searching for my next read, I often get lost in the minutia of reviews and talk myself out of a book before I’ve even given the first sentence a passing glance. Fortunately, I stumbled upon Chris Whitaker ’s recently published novel, All of the Colors of Darkness , when it was so new there were fewer than 10 reviews available online. Rather than move on to my next contender, I decided to treat this book like a blind date. Beyond the title, I knew nothing — no plot summary, no time period, not even a genre.

All the Colors of the Dark spans decades, beginning in a small Missouri town in 1975, when a young teen named Patch witnesses the near-abduction of a teen girl and chooses to bravely (or maybe foolishly) intervene, resulting in his own abduction. The subsequent pages move linearly through time with flashbacks to key moments, knitting together the experiences of Patch with those of his best friend, Saint, and her unwavering quest to find him.

Within the first few chapters, the book’s characters somehow felt familiar, like folks I’d known from my small town, and yet they were also unpredictably unique with their mannerisms and speech. It’s clear Whitaker felt no desire to stick with tropes and stereotypes as he fleshed out the dynamic central players. Similarly, Whitaker didn’t write with a single genre in mind. All the Colors of the Dark easily checks off multiple boxes: fiction, thriller, mystery, suspense and even romance.

NEXT UP: As part of Xpress’ new regular feature, “Off the Shelf,” we ask local residents to offer a book recommendation. This month’s suggestion comes courtesy of Kayla Pressley Seay, site manager at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial. Photo courtesy of Seay; design by Scott Southwick

As the site manager of the Thomas Wolfe Memorial, reading comes with the territory. I spend more time than I often realize on the quest for quotable quotes and reading passages from Thomas Wolfe’s writings. Folks who have read Wolfe know that brevity isn’t his strong suit. Wolfe loves excessive details and setting scenes often melts into rich prose. Perhaps this is why I felt at home reading All the Colors of the Dark , which at just over 600 pages is a commitment, to be sure. But Whitaker’s prose is so vivid and evocative, I challenge that any reader can see through the darkness.

I’ll close with one of my favorite lines from the book:

“At ten years old he realized that people were born whole, and that the bad things peeled layers from the person you once were, thinning compassion and empathy and the ability to construct a future. At thirteen he knew those layers could sometimes be rebuilt when people loved you. When you loved.”  X

WEEKLY DEALS & EVENTS

Monday:

$3 Rotating Beer

Wing Tuesday: 6 wings, any side, and any beer for $14.00

Burger Wednesday: Classic or Special Burger, any side, and any beer for $16.00

Trivia Thursdays: 7-9 PM

25 Sweeten Creek Rd.

Everything in Moderation: Making magic

A Monday bar series at the Low Down supports local service workers

BY AUDREY AND BILL KOPP

audreybill@liquornerds.com

Welcome to Everything in Moderation. Xpress is reviving the popular cocktail and spirits column from contributing writers Audrey and Bill Kopp after it abruptly ended at the start of COVID-19 in 2020.

Sharing fellowship and conversation over a cocktail at the end of the day is a time-honored social tradition. Monday Magic, an initiative from The Low Down and The Crow & Quill founder Casey Campfield, combines that practice with a fun way to support Asheville-area bartenders whose lives and livelihoods took a hit from Tropical Storm Helene.

Campfield launched Monday Magic in December at The Low Down in West Asheville in response to the wounding effects of the storm on local service workers. “Even now, with many places reopening, people have not gotten back to their full schedules,” says the bar owner and bartender. “They’re still paying off bills from the period when we were all out of work.”

Don Kopp’s frozen margarita

For four drinks:

• 8 ounces gold tequila

• 8 ounces Triple Sec

• 6 ounces frozen limeade concentrate (half of that “paper can”)

• splash (about 2 ounces) of orange juice

• ice

Combine all ingredients in blender; blend until consistent and slushy. Serve in parfait glasses.

Hints:

• For salted rims, spread some kosher salt on a saucer before pouring the drinks. Hold a parfait glass upside down and dip in the still-full blender to wet. Dip the wetted glass in the salt. Turn right side up and fill with frozen drink. For strawberry, peach or other fruit margaritas, replace some of the ice with roughly an equal volume of frozen fruit. You may have to run the blender a bit longer. X

It struck Campfield as logical to contribute in the best way they knew how. “Throwing events at bars is my specialty.”

’EASY AND STREAMLINED’

When Campfield shared the idea on social media and by word-of-

mouth, the response was immediate and nearly overwhelming. Within a few weeks, 28 bartenders had responded and were added to the calendar to participate in the once-aweek event.

Each week, the featured Monday Magic bartender receives 50% of the day’s total sales, plus 100% of the tips. “That’s money they get to take home with them that night in cash: no paperwork, no delays,” says Campfield, who uses the pronoun they.

Stephanie Wood’s top-shelf margarita

Sour mix:

• 2 cups simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)

• 2 cups lime juice

• 1 cup lemon juice

• 1 cup orange juice

For one drink:

• 2 ounces tequila (Wood recommends Corazón reposado)

• 1 ounce sour mix (see above)

• 1 ounce Grand Marnier

Combine and shake with ice. Salt rim of glass if desired; strain mixed drink into ice-filled glass.

A note from the author: “I love Stephanie’s margarita recipe; it’s as good a ‘rita as I’ve ever tasted. But it’s certainly not the only recipe I’ve enjoyed. My dad lives in South Florida, where it’s always margarita season. He recently celebrated his 97th birthday. While Audrey and I were there visiting him, he reminded me of his frozen margarita recipe. It’s simple and makes use of lower-cost ingredients. It’s the recipe I grew up with (well, from my college days onward, anyway).” X

MAGIC MATTERS: The Low Down’s Casey Campfield launched Monday Magic to help displaced Asheville bartenders mitigate some of Tropical Storm Helene’s devastating financial effects. Photo by Bill Kopp

They emphasize that for many workers, processing unemployment claims in the wake of Helene was frustrating and time-consuming. “We wanted to make Monday Magic as easy and streamlined as possible, so people could get on top of their bills and payments immediately.”

Campfield opened “whiskey library” at The Crow & Quill at 106 N. Lexington Ave. in 2014. With its extensive spirits menu — including well over 100 varieties of bourbons — the cozy bar quickly became a favorite among locals.

Building on that success, they opened The Low Down in a basement space at 723 Haywood Road in October 2023 with the goal to create “a cute neighborhood pub with a date-night feel.”

The space presented some challenges. “It’s essentially a concrete bunker,” Campfield says. “I knew that we would have to literally transform the place to make it comfortable.” Extensive custom woodworking — laser-cut based on Campfield’s hand drawings — gives the space a warm ambiance.

“I love it when people feel transported out of their everyday lives,” they say. “That’s a goal of mine with The Crow & Quill and with The Low Down: to have décor so different from what you’re used to, yet cozy and comfortable.”

The Low Down’s intimate vibe provides a perfect setting for Monday Magic. Campfield has created the event in a way that allows the featured bartender to mingle with patrons and friends. “They don’t have to learn our menu or our register system,” they say. “We do most of the behind-the-scenes work.”

The community response has been remarkable. “Each night that we’ve had the event, we’ve raised anywhere from about $380 to $1,200,” Campfield says. In late February, The Low Down announced that the series had so far raised $7,865 for participating bartenders — an average of $787 per person.

Recently, a scheduled bartender couldn’t make it, so Campfield reached out to Mary Taylor Taylor’s basement had taken on 6 inches of water from the storm; six months later, she’s still without central heat. “Casey called me last-minute, and it was amazing,” she says. “I was able to make my mortgage payment.”

“Everybody seems really happy with Monday Magic,” Campfield says. They look forward to the series’ continuation, helping more Asheville service workers. “[Our featured bartenders] have made some new friends, and we have some new

regulars now, too. It’s been a really good time.”

FEATURED BARTENDER: STEPHANIE WOOD

Stephanie Wood has been tending bar in Asheville for 25 years; her first gig was at Garfield’s Restaurant in what was then Biltmore Square Mall. She went on to work in Biltmore Village at The Melting Pot and then at Neo Cantina (later The Cantina).

“I started there after the 2004 flood,” she recalls. “I made millions of margaritas!”

The Helene-related flood destroyed The Cantina; management has opted not to reopen. “It’s a big deal to lose your job of 20 years,” Wood says. Her home sustained some damage from the storm, and like many, she still looks forward to repairs being completed.

Wood eventually found a new bartending gig at the Village Pub, also in Biltmore Village. But in

Three Weekends Six Monologues Nine Plays monologue & short play festival

mid-February, she welcomed the opportunity to participate in the Monday Magic series. “It was great camaraderie,” she says with a warm smile. “When people were leaving, it was all hugs and see-you-tomorrows.”

She remains in awe of Campfield’s initiative. “I mean, who does that? It’s above and beyond,” she says. For information on upcoming Monday Magic featured bartenders, follow The Low Down at avl.mx/eo5. X

Living off the land

Local author pens memoir about his life as a Hare Krishna

BY MOLLY DEVANE

molly.devane@gmail.com

It was raining in Black Mountain on Sept. 26 when Rishi Waterman received the first copies of his memoir, Children of a Harsh Bliss. The delivery came just hours before Tropical Storm Helene would arrive in Western North Carolina.

Waterman had planned to spend the next month marketing his new book. Instead, he found himself hauling water from streams to flush his toilet, sharing food with his neighbors and adjusting to life without power and internet.

Of course, Waterman was no stranger to living without modern conveniences. For 30 years, he belonged to a Hare Krishna community in Marshall County, W.Va., whose members were devoted to living off the land.

“We were milking our cows, working our horses and growing our food,” Waterman says. “When you live in a community like that, you realize how dependent you are on each other. You become a tight little tribe, a real family. You become so alive.”

Waterman’s experience with his former community is the subject of his new memoir. The author recently sat down with Xpress to discuss the work and the many roles he fulfilled as a Hare Krishna.

Editor’s note: This interview has been condensed and lightly edited for clarity. Xpress: What is Hare Krishna? Waterman: Hare Krishna resembles Hinduism — there’s a lot of ritual, worship of deities, chanting and similar beliefs like vegetarianism and reincarnation. But Hare Krishna is focused on the principle of Krishna consciousness, a philosophy that believes we are all spiritual beings with a capacity for higher awareness. It’s not that different from other belief systems that teach that we are more than our human bodies. Hare Krishna devotees come to this understanding through practicing yoga, playing different types of Indian musical instruments and the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra.

How did you come to join the Hare Krishna movement?

Ever since I was 12 or 13, I was on a pretty intense search for God. In 1967, when I was 14, the whole counterculture scene started in California, and LSD and acid started pouring into our community in Modesto. I started taking these wonderful, mind-expanding drugs, and they really did open a lot of different ways of viewing the world. The following year I met the Hare Krishna devotees in San Francisco and participated in a festival where hundreds of us chanted and walked

MISCONCEPTION: “One of the major misconceptions about Hare Krishna is that it’s a cult and it’s totally controlled by certain gurus,” says local author Rishi Waterman. “That’s not the fact.” Photo courtesy of Waterman

through Golden Gate Park out to the ocean, where we had this wonderful vegetarian feast. That really got me going. I started going to the Hare Krishna temple, got a set of prayer beads and read the Bhagavad Gita and other scriptures.

At some point, I just thought I needed a guru, someone to show me the path in a disciplined way. I was hitchhiking my way across the U.S. with the goal to get to India when I happened to land at the New Vrindaban Hare Krishna community in West Virginia in 1971. I could practice my faith and live in the country, which I had always wanted to do. It just felt like home. You were there for 30 years. What did you do day to day?

I did a lot of different things. I started working horses. Then I learned how to milk cows. And then they threw me in the pot-washing room, where I had to build outdoor fires, heat the water, go to a well … it wasn’t difficult but it was interesting. After that, I dressed the deity statues, which was priestly work. What kept you in for so many years? And why did you leave?

I was living the lifestyle that I really wanted to live. We got up every morning, chanted, followed certain principles. Off-the-grid living, living

out in the woods — I just loved it. It was a beautiful philosophy and just what I wanted to embrace in my life. I left for a combination of reasons. I’d had an arranged marriage in the community that didn’t work out. I also felt there were some limitations I didn’t quite agree with and the teachings seemed a little dogmatic. It was time to go on. There were some doors opening for me, and even though I didn’t know what was behind them, I felt guided and protected from higher sources. I hope this book reflects that spirit — you may not know what’s going to happen next, but you need to follow your heart and not be afraid.

How do you feel about Hare Krishna now?

I still very much appreciate everything about them. I fully support whoever practices the teachings and the philosophy. It’s helped so many people.

I still communicate with the community in West Virginia. They’re going to sell my book in the bookstore. It’s very meaningful to me that people who come to the community can read something about the past because there are some other stories about the Krishna movement that are just really bad.

I’ve been as objective as possible in this book. One of the major miscon-

ceptions about Hare Krishna is that it’s a cult and it’s totally controlled by certain gurus. Or, you’re forced to do things by brainwashing or mind control. That’s not the fact. Anyone can leave anytime they want to. And many people have.

The philosophy, to treat everyone equally, is still wonderful.

What do you hope people take away from the book?

I hope people can be inspired by it. To set out to do something your heart is calling you to do. To follow something you truly believe in.

I also hope people come to understand that the reliance on technology is getting worse and worse. Let’s just become a little more down-to-earth, you know? A lot of people are trying to live off the land now, and I hope they read these stories and see that we made mistakes but we didn’t give up.

This is also for people my age. Don’t start thinking you can just sit back. We’ve got a lot to do to help the world.

If we believe things aren’t going in the right direction in the world, then we have to become the cure. What did Helene show us? All of a sudden, the neighborhoods got together, and we were so connected. We have to get back to that. X

Floating away

Brewing Co.

BINEER

BY CHRISTOPHER ARBOR

On Jan. 1, Christopher Arbor and his friends pledged to visit one Asheville brewery each week for all of 2025 in the order that theopened, then share the experience with Mountain Xpress readers. To read about their recent visit to One World Brewing, visit avl.mx/eo6.

On New Year’s Day, we began our heroic, yearlong quest to visit every Asheville brewery in the order that they opened. But we almost immediately ran into a constitutional crisis.

What exactly is an “Asheville brewery”? Does it need to have started in Asheville? Does it need to be within the city limits? Does it need to brew on-site? Should we include cideries? Distilleries? Meaderies? Kombucharies? Admittedly, I made up that last word.

Ultimately, we intentionally left it vague, in part because I really wanted to hear some great music, and Pisgah Brewing Co. in Black Mountain — which marks its 20th anniversary this spring — is renowned for its extraordinary venue and top-notch performers. The Wednesday we were there was no exception.

Pisgah’s new indoor taproom (right across the creek from its orig-

inal location) just opened in late January. When we strolled in, I was immediately taken by the band onstage — The Hillclimbers.

If I were describing this group the way Wicked Weed Brewing describes its beer, I’d say: “Appalachianleaning trio with strong folk appeal, creating a rich harmonic resonance melding melodic notes of rural guitar, pastoral violin and upright bass, including a nose of fresh-cut bluegrass. Hints of ukuleles.”

If I were using my own words, I’d say, “Dang good.”

That’s a pretty good description of the whole venue, beer included. There’s no pretentiousness.

Much to my delight, there were six dark beers on tap, so I ordered four of them — as a flight, my friends. That’s four 4-ounce pours. It was a school night after all.

While the friendly bartender was pouring my beer, and I was grooving to The Hillclimbers’ compelling rendition of “Friend of the Devil,” I noticed a flyer saying that Keller Williams will be playing on Saturday, June 7, and before that, the brewery will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a huge party featuring the jam band Spafford on Saturday, April 19. (Learn more about this at avl.mx/eo3.)

I tottered outside, careful not to spill the liquid gold, and raised a

glass with my compadres to Black Mountain’s storm recovery efforts. A peaceful feeling settled over me even before the beer hit my lips. The sun was setting, and a creek babbled beside us.

Speaking of flow, Pisgah Brewing’s motto is “We all drink downstream.” (How’s that for a transition?) I had the privilege of chatting with the owner, Dave Quinn, about what inspired the saying.

He told me, “It speaks to how our daily actions shape our reality and the reality of those around us. It’s a call to action to conserve and recycle, farm and govern responsibly and have patience and grace with our fellow humans in our daily lives. Businesswise, we pay our people well, provide health insurance, use organic ingredients and support the performing arts.”

Darn it, Dave. I’m supposed to be the writer here.

To sum up: The beer is tasty, the space is chill, the music is incredible, and the owner is wise. And if I get home before daylight, I just might get some sleep … tonight. Join us on another adventure. We gather at 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays. You can email me at yearinbeerasheville@ gmail.com or just show up.

• April 9: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

• April 16: Mills River Brewing Co. X

PLAYING WITH THE BAND: The Hilltoppers graced the new stage at Pisgah Brewing Co. on a recent Wednesday. Photo by Christopher Arbor

Bathroom break

BY BRAULIO PESCADOR-MARTINEZ

bpescadormartinez@mountainx.com

As an open-format music DJ and producer — as well as a devoted barfly — I’ve had my share of interesting bar experiences, especially at our local dive bars. If you visit dives often enough, you’ll inevitably have to brave the bathroom at some point, and any experienced dive bar patron can tell you how potentially terrifying the conditions might be. Obscene art, unhinged wall quotes, foul smells, broken or overflowing toilets and — my personal least favorite — long lines, are just a few of the things that could greet you.

But at the same time, it’s the imperfections, quirks, rough-around-theedges character and grimy aesthetics that make dive bars so great. And for me, nothing beats getting lost in the unusual graffiti art and peculiar messages that can often be discovered on their bathroom walls. You never know when you might unearth encouraging words of intoxicated wisdom or a oneof-a-kind work of art just begging to be the backdrop for a selfie.

With this new occasional column, I’ve taken it upon myself to “dive” deeper into the bathroom scene at our local lowbrow watering holes to share Asheville’s unsung wall-art masterpieces, thought-provoking (or just plain oddball) quotes and other curiosities to hopefully inspire your next bathroom break.

The first stop on our adventure: Broadway’s.

BROADWAY’S

I confess that I am a little hesitant to write about one of my favorite dive bars since it’s a secret gem for Asheville locals. However, I think it’s best to start this series on the right foot. Broadway’s, which opened on North Lexington Avenue in 1999, is truly a downtown dive bar paradise for the lucky few who have memberships (it’s a members-only club). Inside, you’ll find loyal regulars, three always-busy pool tables and bartenders who don’t mind using a heavy hand when they pour a drink. The clientele tends to be a diverse group of alternative-minded people, and the environment is generally friendly.

Also — pro tip — it’s one of the best places in Asheville to get pho, if you

Exploring

Asheville’s dive bar restrooms with Braulio Pescador-Martinez

have the good fortune to be there at one of the random times when the kitchen is open.

You won’t find many eye-catching quotes in Broadway’s bathrooms, but it definitely offers good photo ops with its bizarre wall art. Though the walls aren’t completely covered in graffiti, there are several artistic murals in both bathrooms. The art is a type of weirdcore seemingly executed by the brain of someone under the influence.

In one bathroom, there’s a picture of a short alien resembling E.T. and another of a pensive, glasses-wearing alligator holding a cup of coffee and a cigarette. Both stand out distinctly against the battered blue walls. I bet many of the people who frequent Broadway’s start their morning just like this alligator.

In the other bathroom, the blood-red walls are decorated with oddly warped pictures of popular movie characters, such as Tony Montana from Scarface

and David from The Lost Boys. The images look like something out of a fever dream-turned-nightmare directed by Tim Burton. (I looked for a signature or evidence of who had created these murals, but couldn’t find anything.)

Drunkenly stepping into these bathrooms with that art staring back at you can feel a little unsettling. But for me, any uneasiness caused by the art’s cryptic energy isn’t enough to overpower the overwhelming desire to snap a selfie. X

INSIDER ART: Braulio Pescador-Martinez, pictured, discovered artistic hidden gems inside the bathrooms at Broadway’s bar. Photo courtesy of Pescador-Martinez

Tango on a Plate Lookin’ Good

The 1898 Waverly Inn in Hendersonville will host its fourth annual Jose’s Lookin’ Good Showcase 5:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday, April 10, at Continuum Art. The inn will prepare a barbecue dinner to go along with musical performances from teenaged duo the Burney Sisters and Irish singer-songwriter Dylan Walshe. Tickets are $50 for dinner and the show or $25 for just the show. Proceeds will benefit Thrive, a local nonprofit serving individuals with mental health issues and housing needs. Continuum Art is at 147C First Ave. E., Hendersonville. Visit avl.mx/enk for tickets. X

Downtown restaurant Posana will collaborate with wine expert Ann Marie Sgroi to present an Argentinian wine dinner at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 10. Wines from Argentina’s Catena Zapata winery will be paired with five courses from Posana chef de cuisine Erin Cummings highlighting the country’s culinary traditions, including lamb empanadas, grilled cobia with smoky piquillo salsa, ribeye steak and tomato raspberry gazpacho. Tickets are $125 each. Tax and gratuity are included. Posana is at 1 Biltmore Ave. Visit avl.mx/enn for tickets. X

Catawba Brewing Co.’s taproom and brewing facility at 32 Banks Ave. closed on March 23 after 10 years at that location. That weekend, “record-setting numbers” attended a celebration of the space and the anniversary of Peanut Butter and Jelly Time brown ale, says Catawba’s director

of sales, Meggie Hanchett. The brewery’s lease ended in March, and it was unable to negotiate new terms with the landlord, she says. Catawba is retaining its staff while the company finalizes a new site, which it hopes to open this spring. Catawba’s Biltmore Village location was destroyed by Tropical Storm Helene, and it is currently without a taproom. “Asheville is our home, and we are working diligently to get our new space open as soon as possible so we can continue to brew new craft beer and host our neighbors for music, trivia, art markets and more,” says Hanchett. For updates, visit avl.mx/ent. X

Six months after Tropical Storm Helene, Western North Carolina restaurants, bars and breweries continue to reopen.

• Fresh Wood Fired Pizza West: Fresh Wood Fired Pizza West in the River Arts District reopened on March 19. Floodwaters from Helene stopped just 2 inches from the restaurant’s door on Sept. 27, according to a media release. With the relaunch, Brandon King has stepped into the role of manager, replacing former manager Chester Oland Fresh West is at 342 Depot St. To learn more, visit avl.mx/eno.

• Mad Co. Brew House: On March 17, Mad Co. Brew House in Marshall reopened — 173 days after Helene filled the brewery’s taproom and kitchen with over 8 feet of river water. Mad Co.’s on-site pizza restaurant should reopen before the end of April, according to a press release from owner Rhesa Edwards. Mad Co. is at 45 N. Main St., Marshall. Learn more at avl.mx/enp.

• The Roof at The Radical: The Radical Hotel’s open-air rooftop bar, The Roof, reopened on March 21. The hotel’s restaurant, Golden Hour, and coffee shop, after/glow, rebooted March 1. With the relaunch, The Roof has added new food items, including a locally sourced charcuterie board, burger, fried chicken sandwich and Carolina oysters. The Roof is at The Radical, 95 Roberts St. For more information, visit avl.mx/enr.

• Funkatorium: Wicked Weed Brewing recently announced its Funkatorium at 147 Coxe Ave. will reopen in May. In a press release, the brewery promised more details to come. Wicked Weed’s downtown Brew Pub and satellite taproom in Candler both reopened in October. Learn more at avl.mx/ens. X

Post -Helene reopen i ngs

Photo of Posana sommelier Jesus Zafiro, courtesy of Posana

Photo courtesy of Mad Co. Brew House

Farm aid

BY KAY WEST

kswest55@comcast.net

Across rural Western North Carolina, farmers are preparing their fields for a new growing season. On Livingston Street in Asheville’s urban Southside neighborhood, the same work is taking place on the tiny but mighty 0.34-acre Southside Community Farm (SCF) tucked behind the Arthur R. Edington Education and Career Center.

On Sunday. April 6, 1-4 p.m., the farm will host its spring fundraiser at New Belgium Brewing, 91 Craven St. The event’s goal is to support this seasonal ritual at the farm, which provides free fresh produce to residents of the food-insecure Southside neighborhood.

“Spring is when the farm is being cultivated and when we invest the most money into the space,” explains Kate Wheeler, SCF administration and food programming coordinator. “We’re prepping the soil, buying amendments, seeds and starts, and replacing anything old or worn out. We do major purchases at the beginning of the year.” New Belgium is a longtime supporter of SCF. The idea to host the fundraiser on the brewery’s spacious River Arts District property emerged from brainstorming with Andi Gonzalez, the brewery’s community and events coordinator. “There’s a lot of room, it’s very kid-friendly, and people love to drink beer,” says Wheeler. “They have been great partners.”

Since planting its first seeds in 2014, SCF has grown from simple row crops to raised beds and hoop houses, cultivated the Southside Community Orchard across the street, planted a small medicinal and culinary herb garden, launched the Feed Asheville veggie box program (avl.mx/enh) and started the Southside Community Farmers Market (kicking off for the season on Sunday, June 1). The farm has also installed and stocks community refrigerators and pantries, and recently expanded its children’s engagement and education programming with the hiring of youth educator Lydia Koltai Wheeler says the farm’s small footprint doesn’t limit its mission. Manager Chloe Moore already has onions and garlic in the ground, and in the coming season, there will also be several varieties of greens, tomatoes, root vegetables, corn and more. Fruits include strawberries, elderberries, apples and muscadine grapes, and the farm’s 10-year old blueberry bushes are so productive neighbors are encouraged to come and pick their own.

Southside Community Farm hosts spring fundraiser at New Belgium Brewing

GONE TO SEED: Chloe Moore, manager at Southside Community Farm, drops seeds in prepared soil on the property for the upcoming growing season. Photo courtesy Southside Community Farm

“Chloe is so good at utilizing space and saving seeds, being intentional about being productive and an environmental steward of the space,” says Wheeler. “We strive to be aware of what folks in the neighborhood want to eat and be culturally appropriate.”

The fundraiser will feature music with DJ Malintzin, a food truck, New Belgium beers and nonalcoholic options, free elderberry cuttings from the Southside Community Orchard, free native tree seedlings from Asheville GreenWorks, SCF merchandise for sale and a youth education and activity booth run by Koltai.

“This collaboration between New Belgium and Southside Community Farm is built with the intention to create space and elevate organizations that emphasize the power of community partnerships in advancing food sovereignty, cultural enrichment and sustainable local economies,” says Gonzalez.

Wheeler stresses that SCF views its work through the lens of understanding that it exists to support what community members already consistently do for each other. “After Helene, we saw how much people showed up for one another, and we were humbled to be able to support that and build deeper relationships with the community.”

There is no entry fee for the event, but attendees are encouraged to make tax-deductible donations to the farm online (avl.mx/eni) or via check (avl.mx/enj). X

by Edwin Arnaudin | earnaudin@mountainx.com

Connect Beyond Festival Roots So Deep

The Connect Beyond Festival returns Saturday-Sunday, April 5-6, at a new home: Third Room. Founded in 2018, the convergence of storytelling, art and film seeks to ignite meaningful conversations across creative disciplines. Events this year include a screening of the documentary A King Like Me, about New Orleans’ first Black Mardi Gras krewe, with a postfilm Q&A with director Matthew O. Henderson; panel discussions “From Climate Haven to Climate Crisis: Rethinking Asheville’s Future” and “Thinking

Globally, Acting Locally”; and the interactive art installation Paddling the Same Canoe. “I want to create space for everyone to express themselves, whether or not they consider themselves an artist,” says festival director Jessica Tomasin. “No experience is needed — just a willingness to engage. Now, more than ever, we need spaces to come together, create and remember what inspires us.” Tickets are $25 for day passes and $50 for a weekend pass. Sliding scale tickets are also available for day passes. avl.mx/env X

Earth Month is upon us, and Hickory Nut Gap Farms and UNC Asheville’s environmental science department aren’t waiting until Earth Day to celebrate. On Wednesday, April 9, at 5 p.m., in UNCA’s Blue Ridge Room, the two groups will co-host a screening of Roots So Deep, a four-part documentary series about creative farmers and scientists using ancient practices to solve modern problems. The evening also includes food from Hickory Nut Gap, oppor-

tunities for networking and a panel discussion about building climate resiliency. Panel participants include the docuseries’ director, Peter Byck; Hickory Nut Gap Farms co-founder Jamie Ager; UNC Asheville assistant professor of environmental studies Jake Hagedorn; and Allen Williams, sixth-generation family farmer and a founding partner of Grass Fed Insights LLC, Understanding Ag LLC and the Soil Health Academy. Tickets are $20. avl.mx/enw X

Photo of Peter Byck courtesy of Hickory Nut Gap Farms

The Incidental Moment

How similar are photographs and paintings? Pink Dog Gallery explores that question in its latest exhibit, The Incidental Moment, which spotlights the work of painter Joanie Krug and street photographer and oral historian Alan Wieder. The exhibition runs Friday-Sunday, April 4-May 4, with an opening reception slated for Saturday, April 5, 4-6 p.m. “Joanie’s gestural brushwork and abstracted figurative and landscape work rep-

resents the spontaneous and incidental spirit of her social and community perceptions. The moods conveyed suggest a lively energy and connection to her world,” Pink Dog says in a press release. “Alan will be showing recent work that he has made on the streets of Asheville. These are images that hope to show the spirit of individuals in their public setting.” The exhibit and reception are free to attend. avl.mx/a0b X

NC Writers’ Network Spring Conference

Back in Asheville for the first time since 2019, the N.C. Writers’ Network 2025 Spring Conference runs Friday-Sunday, May 2-4, at the DoubleTree Asheville-Biltmore. The conference opens with a keynote address by Ron Rash (Serena) and continues over the weekend with a lineup of talks, workshops, panels and resource oppotunities. Initially slated for early November 2024, the network rescheduled the conference after Tropical Storm Helene. Several offerings reflect postflood life, including a Saturday, May 3, luncheon discussion called “What the Mountains Need Now,” moderated by local author Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle (Even As We Breathe). Another panel of note, “Have You People Never Seen the Terminator?: Writers & AI,” features a discussion of the benefits, hype, dangers and backlash of artificial intelligence. “Just about everything we offer network members is in the spring conference: the chance to hone your

craft, the chance to learn the business, the chance to find or nurture or renew community with other writers,” says Ed Southern, network executive director. Registration is open and scholarships are available. avl.mx/enx X

“Chair Dance” by Joanie Krug. Image courtesy of Pink Dog Gallery

Photo of Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle by Mallory Cash

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S

PSK Karaoke, 8pm

HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Well-Crafted Music

Series w/Graham Sharp, Seth Kauffman, & Matt Smith, 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD

PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

NEW BELGIUM BREWING CO.

Daniel Shearin (acoustic), 5:30pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Cuberow (soul, funk, Americana), 6pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

SOUTHERN APPALACHIAN BREWERY

Jazz Night, 6pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Shinyribs w/Kevin Gordon (funk, soul, blues-rock), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

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

THE ONE STOP

Zambi (rock, funk, jam), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

John Vincent III w/ Hazlett (indie-folk), 8pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Open Mic Night, 6pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Straight Ahead Wednesdays w/Pavel Wlosok Trio: A Nod to Herbie Hancock, 7:30pm

THURSDAY, APRIL 3

CROW & QUILL

Meschiya Lake & The Mood Swingers (jazz), 8pm

EDA RHYNE

DISTILLERY & TASTING ROOM

The Gilded Palace of Metamodern Sounds, 6pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Bless Your Heart Trivia w/Harmon, 7pm

EULOGY

Cast Iron Bluegrass Jam, 6:30pm

FLOOD GALLERY

True Home Open Mic, 6pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Laurel Lee & the Escapes (country, Americana), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

LAZOOM ROOM BAR & GORILLA

Modelface Comedy Presents: Dan Alten, 7pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO.

Open Old Time Jam, 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Julianna Jade (acoustic, soul), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Fancy Marie Duo (blues, jazz, soul), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO. Clouds of Delusion (tribute-band), 6:30pm

SHAKEY'S Karaoke w/Franco Nino, 9pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

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

THE GREY EAGLE

Chuck Ragan w/Nate Bergman (folk-rock, punk, Americana), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Company Swing (jazz, swing, blues), 7pm

THE ONE STOP

Isaac Hadden's Thursday Throwdown (rock, funk, jam), 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Neal Francis w/ Improvement Movement (indie-rock, R&B), 8pm

VOODOO BREWING CO.

Music Bingo Thursdays, 7pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

The Primitive (rock, funk, blues), 7:30pm

WICKED WEED BREWING

Andy Ferrell (folk, country), 5pm

FRIDAY, APRIL 4

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Kyle Hollingsworth Band w/Sam Fribush Organ Trio (multi-genre), 9pm

CROW & QUILL

DJ Dr. Filth (soul, R&B, jazz), 9pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Adrianne Blanks & the Oracles (surf-rock, jazz, swing), 8pm

EULOGY

Dance Underground feat. In Plain Sight (EDM, house), 10:30pm

FLEETWOOD'S Drowning Leo, My Gal Monday & The Ruff'Tons (punk), 9pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

New Variants (classic-rock), 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Lillie Syracuse (folk-pop, indie), 9pm

LEAF GLOBAL ARTS

Jazz Jam, 6pm

NEW BELGIUM BREWING CO.

Slow Packer (folk, pop, indie), 5:30pm

CLUBLAND

FRIDAY LIVE MUSIC: On Friday, April 4, Slow Packer — a collaborative music project between two brothers — performs at New Belgium Brewing Co., starting at 5:30 p.m. Listeners can expect a mix of genre influences such as folk, indie-rock, avant-pop and more. Photo courtesy of Sweetgrit

ONE WORLD BREWING

Beer & Loathing (rock, funk, country), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

WEST

Hustle Souls (funk, soul, blues), 9pm

SHAKEY'S

• Big Blue Jams Band (multi-genre), 9pm

• Total Gold w/DJ Abu Disarray, 9pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO.

North Mississippi Allstars (Southern-rock, blues), 6pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Daddy Deem's R&B Night, 10pm

THE BURGER BAR Burger Bar Comedy, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Lord Nelson (southern-rock, alt-country), 5:30pm

• Melissa Carper & Theo Lawrence (country, jazz, soul), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

The Pubsters (rock'n'roll, funk, blues), 7pm

THE MULE

Carnival Macabre Presents: Cults, Cryptids & Conspiracy, 8pm

THE ONE STOP

• Chris Bullock & Justin Stanton (jazz-fusion), 6pm

• Mono Means One w/ Isaac Hadden (prog-rock, psychedelic, funk), 10pm

THIRD ROOM

Boat Command & We Have Ignition (trip-hop, surf-rock, alternative), 9pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Michael Rabinowitz (jazz), 7:30pm

WICKED WEED WEST

Stephen Evans (folk, rock), 5:30pm

SATURDAY, APRIL 5

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

The Local Honeys w/ Chris McGinnis (country, bluegrass, folk), 8pm

CAPELLA ON 9 @ THE AC HOTEL

Shed Bugs (funk, blues, psych-rock), 8pm

CROW & QUILL

Otis Trick & The Books (rock'n'roll), 8:30pm

DSSOLVR

• Mana Meter (multigenre), 6pm

• The Witching Hour Dark & Dirty Comedy Show, 10pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

The Waymores (country, honky-tonk), 8pm

EULOGY

Off with your Radiohead (Radiohead tribute), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S East Ritual, Killer Antz & Dai Cheri (punk, rock, indie), 9pm

GINGER'S REVENGE

Eyes Up Here Comedy: Beating Breast Cancer Edition, 7pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Spectramatic (rock, soul), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Nobody’s Darling String Band, 4pm

• Ramona & The Holy Smokes (country), 9pm

MEADOWLARK

MOTEL

Andrew Wakefield (bluegrass, folk-rock, Americana), 7pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

Fancy & the Friends in Low Places (country), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING

Ricky Chilton (country, Americana), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

• Invitational Blues Jam hosted by Peggy Ratusz & Daddy Long Legs Band, 4pm

• Saturday Sessions (multi-genre), 8pm

PERI SOCIAL HOUSE

: BAR ~ COFFEE ~

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Alex Bazemore & Amabel Lee (bluegrass), 4pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Lazybirds (Americana, jazz, blues), 9pm

SIERRA NEVADA

BREWING CO.

81 Drifters (Americana, bluegrass, jazz), 2pm

SOMATIC SOUNDS

Himalayan Sound Bath Meditation, 11am

STATIC AGE LOFT

Sanctum (dark-dance, goth, dark-wave), 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Future Fix w/Tanner York (power-pop, rock), 8:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Dirty Dead (Grateful Dead tribute), 2pm

• John "Papa" Gros (funk, R&B, Americana), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT

DOOR

Laron Huntley & Friends (rock, country), 7pm

THE ONE STOP Mono Means One w/ Keith Allen Circus (prog-rock, psychedelic, funk), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Somewhat Petty (Tom Petty tribute), 7pm

SUNDAY, APRIL 6

AYURPRANA

LISTENING ROOM

Friendship w/Hour (indie-rock, folk), 7pm

CORK & KEG

Becky Hill & Ben Nelson (Appalachian, old-time), 4pm

DSSOLVR Bill's Garage solo set (indie-rock, psych-folk, power-pop), 1pm

EULOGY Elder (prog-rock, psychedelic), 7pm

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

Sunday Jazz Jam, 2:30pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Reedy River String Band (bluegrass), 2pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• The Bluegrass Boys, 12pm

• Traditional Irish Music Session, 3:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

• Suns of Stars Sunday Residency, 2pm

• Krave Amiko (indierock, alt-pop), 7pm

PISGAH BREWING CO. Pisgah Sunday Jam, 6pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO.

Sidecar Honey (indie, Americana, rock), 2pm

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

THE GREY EAGLE John Splithoff w/Evann McIntosh (soul, pop, R&B), 8pm THE ONE STOP Shakedown Sunday (Grateful Dead tribute), 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Yonder Mountain String Band (bluegrass), 8pm

VOWL

Freshen Up Comedy Open Mic, 7pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Chris Rosser, Beth Wood, & Jane Kramer (folk), 4pm

MONDAY, APRIL 7

27 CLUB

27 Club Karaoke, 10pm

FLEETWOOD'S Best Ever Karaoke, 9pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Trivia Night w/Two Bald Guys & A Mic, 6pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

Open Mic Downtown, 6:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Mashup Mondays w/ JLloyd, 8pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

The Hot Seat Comedy, 7pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Miriam Hacksaw, Mother Marrow & Mira Lazuli (folk, pop), 8:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE

The Weather Station w/ Sister Ray, 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Mr. Jimmy & Friends (Blues), 7pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Carolina Celtic: Andrew Finn Magill w/David McKindley-Ward, 7:30pm

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

ARCHETYPE BREWING

Trivia Tuesdays w/Party Grampa, 6:30pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Cardinal Bloom (indierock), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S Turntable Tuesdays, 9pm

LOOKOUT BREWING CO.

Team Trivia, 6:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

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

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Zinnia's Garden, Liz Berlin & Julianna Jade (rock), 7pm

THE BURGER BAR

C U Next Tuesday Trivia, 9:30pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Ana Popovic (funk, blues, jazz), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

The Lads AVL (rock, blues), 6pm

THE ONE STOP

• Tuesday Early Jam, 7pm

• Uncle Lenny's Krazy Karaoke, 10pm

THIRD ROOM

Open Decks, 8pm

VOODOO BREWING CO.

Trivia Tuesday w/ Principal Mike, 7pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

White Horse's Open Mic, 7pm

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S PSK Karaoke, 8pm

HOUSE OF BLACK CAT MAGIC, CO.

Black Cat Tales: Story Time w/Cats, 4pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO.

Folk Club Open Mic, 6:30pm

NEW BELGIUM BREWING CO.

Daniel Shearin (acoustic), 5:30pm PULP

Mission Accomplished (classic-rock), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Crystal Fountains (Americana, indie-rolk, bluegrass), 6pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

SOUTHERN

APPALACHIAN BREWERY

Jazz Night, 6pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Squirrel Nut Zippers

Present: Back 'O Town (jazz), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Moon Water (country, jazz), 7pm

THE MULE

Saylor Brothers (jamgrass), 7:30pm

THE ODD

Terraoke Karaoke Takeover, 9pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY Open Mic Night, 6pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

• Irish Session, 5pm

• Melissa McKinney's Bad Ass Blues Jam, 7:30pm

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Joe Marcinek’s Dead Funk Summit w/Jerry’s Dead (Grateful Dead tribute), 8pm

AYURPRANA

LISTENING ROOM

Billy Jonas Album Release Party (), 7pm

CROW & QUILL Meschiya Lake & The Moodswingers (blues, jazz), 8pm

EDA RHYNE

DISTILLERY & TASTING ROOM

The Gilded Palace of Metamodern Sounds, 6pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Bless Your Heart Trivia w/Harmon, 7pm

EULOGY

Scott McMicken & The Ever Expanding w/Doc Aquatic & Julie Odell (indie-rock, psychedelic, folk), 8pm

FLOOD GALLERY

True Home Open Mic, 6pm

HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Gold Rose (Americana, alt-country), 6pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

LEVELLER BREWING CO.

Irish Session, 6pm

ONE WORLD BREWING Julia Still (country, Americana), 8pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Sqwerv (rock, indie), 6:30pm

REVOLVE

Untethered w/Okapi (avant-garde, experimental), 7pm

SHAKEY'S Karaoke w/Franco Nino, 9pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

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

STATIC AGE RECORDS Rap Attack: C.Shreve The Professor, Sxvxnt, Kaizër & Isa Ibn Wali (hip-hop, rap), 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE

• Old Sap (folk, Americana), 5:30pm

• The Wildmans (bluegrass, folk), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

All Female Singer-Songwriter Night, 7pm

THE ODD Coven Collaborations Presents: Parental Advisory Resurrection, 9pm

THE ONE STOP The Congdon Griffin Band (rock, folk, blues), 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Larry Fleet w/Everette (country), 8pm

VOODOO BREWING CO.

Music Bingo Thursdays, 7pm

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY BY ROB BREZSNY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Have you ever been part of an innovation team? Its goal is not simply to develop as many new ideas and approaches as possible, but rather to generate good, truly useful new ideas and approaches. The most effective teams don’t necessarily move with frantic speed. In fact, there’s value in “productive pausing” — strategic interludes of reflection that allow deeper revelations to arise. It’s crucial to know when to slow down and let hunches and insights ripen. This is excellent advice for you. You’re in a phase when innovation is needed and likely. For best results, infuse your productivity with periodic stillness.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Barnacles are crustaceans that form vast colonies on rocks, pilings, whales and boats. They may grow so heavy on a ship that they increase its heft and require as much as a 40% increase in fuel consumption. Some sailors refer to them as “crusty foulers.” All of us have our own metaphorical equivalent of crusty foulers: encumbrances and deadweights that drag us down and inhibit our rate of progress. In my astrological opinion, the coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to shed as much of yours as possible. (I’ll be shedding mine in June.)

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In 1088, the Chinese polymath and statesman Shen Kuo published his book Dream Torrent Essays, also translated as Dream Pool Essays. In this masterwork, he wrote about everything that intrigued and fascinated him, including the effects of lightning strikes, the nature of eclipses, how to make swords, building tall pagodas resistant to wind damage and a pearl-like UFO he saw regularly. I think the coming weeks would be an excellent time for you to begin your own version of Dream Torrent Essays, Gemini. You could generate maximum fun and self-knowledge by compiling all the reasons you love being alive on this mysterious planet.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The mimosa is known as the “sensitive plant.” The moment its leaves are touched, they fold inwards, exposing the sharp spines of its stems. Why do they do that? Botanists say it’s meant to deter herbivore predators from nibbling it. Although you Cancerians sometimes display equally extreme hair-trigger defense mechanisms, I’m happy to say that you will be unlikely to do so in the coming weeks. You are primed to be extra bold and super-responsive. Here’s one reason why: You are finely tuning your protective instincts so they work with effective grace — neither too strong nor too weak. That’s an excellent formula to make fun new connections and avoid mediocre new connections.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): While sleeping on a recent night, I dreamed of an old friend I had lost touch with for 20 years. It was wonderful. We were remembering mystic breakthroughs we had while younger. When I awoke the next day, I was delighted to find an email from this friend, hoping for us to be back in touch. Hyper-rationalists might call this coincidence, but I know it was magical synchronicity — evidence that we humans are connected via the psychic airways. I’m predicting at least three such events for you in the coming weeks, Leo. Treat them with the reverence they deserve. Take them seriously as signs of things you should pay closer attention to.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A star that astronomers call EBLM J0555-57Ab is 670 light years away. Its diameter is the smallest of any known star, just a bit larger than Saturn in our solar system. But its mass is 250 times greater than Saturn’s. It’s concentrated and potent. I’ll be inclined to compare you to EBLM J0555-57Ab in the coming weeks, Virgo. Like this modest-sized powerhouse, you will be stronger and more impactful than you may appear. The quality you offer will be more effective than others’ quantity. Your focused, dynamic efficiency could make you extra influential.

23-Oct. 22):

musician in part because he didn’t conform to conventions. According to music writer Tarik Moody, Monk’s music features “dissonances and angular melodic twists and are consistent with his unorthodox approach to the piano, which combined a highly percussive attack with abrupt, dramatic use of switched key releases, silences and hesitations.” Many of Monk’s most innovative improvisations grew out of apparent mistakes. He explored and developed wrong notes to make them into intentional aspects of his compositions. “His genius,” said another critic, “lay in his ability to transform accidents into opportunities.” I’d love to see you capitalize on that approach, Libra. You now have the power to ensure that seeming gaffes and glitches will yield positive and useful results.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Author Richard Wright said that people “can starve from a lack of self-realization as much as they can from a lack of bread.” That’s rarely a problem for Scorpios, since you are among the zodiac’s best sleuths when exploring your inner depths. Does any other sign naturally gather more self-realization than you? No! But having said that, I want to alert you to the fact that you are entering a phase when you will benefit from even deeper dives into your mysterious depths. It’s an excellent time to wander into the frontiers of your self-knowledge.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Andean condors hunt for prey while flying through the sky with their 10-foot wingspans. They’ve got a good strategy for conserving their energy: riding on thermal currents with little effort, often soaring for vast distances. I recommend that you channel the Andean condor in the coming weeks, Sagittarius. Always be angling to work smarter rather than harder. Look for tricks and workarounds that will enable you to be as efficient and stress-free as possible. Trust that as you align yourself with natural flows, you will cover a lot of ground with minimal strain. Celebrate the freedom that comes from embracing ease.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): While hiking in nature, people often rely on their phones to navigate. And what if their battery dies or there’s poor cell service out in the middle of nowhere? They might use an old-fashioned compass. It won’t reveal which direction to go, but will keep the hiker apprised of where true north lies. In that spirit, Capricorn, I invite you to make April the month you get in closer communication with your own inner compass. It’s a favorable and necessary time to become even more highly attuned to your ultimate guide and champion: the voice of the teacher within you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “It is advisable to look from the tide pool to the stars and then back to the tide pool.” Aquarian author John Steinbeck wrote that. I think it’s useful counsel for you in the coming weeks. What does it imply? Here are a few meditations. 1. Be tuned in to both the small personal world right in front of you and the big picture of the wider world. Balance and coordinate your understandings of them. 2. If you shift your perspective back and forth between the macrocosmic and microcosmic perspectives, you’re far more likely to understand how life really works. 3. You may flourish best by blending the evaluative powers of your objective, rational analysis and your intuitive, nonrational feelings.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The earliest humans used bones and pebbles to assist in arithmetic calculations. Later, they got help from abacuses and crude mechanical devices. Electronic calculators didn’t arrive until the 1960s. All were efforts to bypass tedious reckonings. All were ingenious attempts to manage necessary details that weren’t much fun. In that spirit, I encourage you to seek time-saving, boredom-preventing innovations in the coming weeks. Now is an excellent time to maximize your spacious ability to do things you love to do.

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SALES/ MARKETING

SENIOR SALES ASSOCIATE

Work for a local company that has covered the local scene for 30 years! Mountain Xpress newspaper is a supportive, team-oriented environment serving local readers and businesses. We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic advertising sales representative. Ideal candidates are personable, organized, motivated, and can present our company with confidence. Necessary skills include clear and professional communications (via phone, email,

MARKETPLACE

and in-person meetings), detailed record-keeping, and self motivation. Experience dealing with varied and challenging situations is helpful. The position’s responsibilities include account development and lead generation (including cold-calling), account management, assisting clients with marketing and branding strategies. If you are a high energy, positive, cooperative person looking to join an independent media organization, please send a resume and cover letter (no walk-ins, please) explaining why you are a good fit for Mountain Xpress to: xpressjob@mountainx.com. This is a noncommissioned position. There is potential for a performance-based annual bonus. Salary: $22 per hour.

GENERAL

UNITED WAY IS SEEKING A RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER We're hiring! Join United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County as a Resource Development Manager! Build relationships, engage donors, and drive equity-centered philanthropy. Passion for fundraising and public speaking required. Apply now to make an impact! For more information, and to apply, visit unitedwayabc.org/ employment-opportunities

ARTS/MEDIA

FRONT OFFICE/MARKET-

ING ASSISTANT Work for an alternative newsweekly that has covered the local scene for over 30 years! Mountain Xpress is a supportive, team-oriented environment serving local readers and businesses. Help build community and strengthen democracy by joining a fiercely independent, mission-driven business. We are seeking an enthusiastic and diligent addition to our front office operations. The ideal candidate is a community-minded, proven self-starter who is adept at juggling multiple diverse tasks at the same time. Responsibilities vary from day-to-day requirements such as answering the main line and being a point person for visitors, accounting and collections work and sales support, to taking ownership of digital marketing initiatives to grow our member and subscriber base. Skills needed: A friendly, professional demeanor, thorough (almost fanatical) accuracy with financial data entry details, strong verbal and written communication skills, broad computer literacy (including digital marketing and office software tools such as spreadsheets), the ability to self-organize, engage with repetitive data-entry, multitask under pressure. Experience in office administration and/or marketing preferred. This is a full time position with annual PTO and sick days. Please email xpressjob@mountainx. com with a cover letter and resume.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

24/7 LOCKSMITH We are there when you need us for

home & car lockouts. We'll get you back up and running quickly! Also, key reproductions, lock installs and repairs, vehicle fobs. Call us for your home, commercial and auto locksmith needs! 1-833-2371233 (AAN CAN)

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-844588-6579. (AAN CAN)

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-889-1843. (AAN CAN)

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as one day. Superior quality bath and shower systems at affordable prices. Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-423-2558. (AAN CAN)

DENIED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY? APPEAL! If you're 50+, filed SSD and denied, our attorneys can help. Win or pay Nothing! Strong, recent work history needed. 877-553-0252 [Steppacher Law Offices LLC Principal Office: 224 Adams Ave Scranton PA 18503] (NC Press)

DO YOU OWE OVER $10,000 to the IRS or State in back taxes? Get tax relief now! We'll fight for you! 1-877-703-6117 (AAN CAN)

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind today at 1-855-869-7055 today! (NC Press)

LIBRA (Sept.

Libran jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk was an influential

GET DISH SATELLITE TV +

INTERNET! Free install, free HD-DVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 in gift cards. Call today! 1-877920-7405. (NC Press)

GOT AN UNWANTED CAR?

Donate it to Patriotic Hearts. Fast free pick up. All 50 states. Patriotic Hearts’ programs help veterans find work or start their own business. Call 24/7: 1-833-426-0086. (AAN CAN)

GOT TAX PROBLEMS?

Owe under 10k to the IRS?

Get affordable tax help you deserve! Start for just $49/ mo. Call Tax Response Center 877-824-1321. (NC Press)

HEARING AIDS High-quality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and nearly invisible! 45-day money back guarantee. 888970-4637. (NC Press)

NEED NEW WINDOWS?

Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames? Need outside noise reduction? New, energy efficient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & FREE quote today. 1-833-890-1293. (AAN CAN)

PEST CONTROL Protect your home from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-406-6971. (AAN CAN)

REPLACE YOUR ROOF With the best looking and longest

lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited time offer – up to 50% off installation + additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders). Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-585-1815. (NC Press)

SAFE STEP. NORTH AMERICA’S #1 WALK-IN TUB. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-931-3643. (NC Press)

STOP OVERPAYING FOR AUTO INSURANCE A recent survey says that most Americans are overpaying for their car insurance. Let us show you how much you can save. Call now for a no obligation quote: 1-833-399-1539. (AAN CAN)

TOP CA$H PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. 1-877-560-5054. (NC Press)

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION A small amount of water can lead to major damage and mold growth in your home. We do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! For a free estimate, call 24/7: 1-888-290-2264 (AAN CAN)

WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-2471189. (NC Press)

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

YOU MAY QUALIFY For disability benefits if you have are between 52-63 years old and under a doctor’s care for a health condition that prevents you from working for a year or more. Call now! 1-833-6413892. (AAN CAN)

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

COME SPEAK FRENCH! Sundays 10am upstairs at Whole Foods South Tunnel Road. Vanaz parler Français! Le Dimanche à 10h à Whole Foods South Tunnel Road 2ième étage.

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT

NATURAL ALTERNATIVES

RESTORE BALANCE & HEAL DEEPLY! Feeling stuck?

Experience the power of Crystal Color Light Therapy to align your chakras and heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Feel lighter, clearer, and more connected. Book now! 828-458-3543 or SoulGuidedCoach.com

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS FOR SALE

BUS SURPLUS AUCTION

CITY OF CHARLOTTE Proterra, Eldorado, Gillig, Ford Arbox, Ford F-450. Preview April 8, 10am-2pm. Bidding ends April 10 starting at 11am. Rogers Realty & Auction, NCAL #685 - 336-789-2926, rogersauctiongroup.com/ auctions. (NC Press)

MARKETPLACE

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

BATH & SHOWER

UPDATES in as little as one day. Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military discounts available. Call: 1-877-560-1844 (NC Press)

ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER

LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off entire purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military discounts. Call 1-877-6491190. (NC Press)

ACROSS

1 “___ Ever” (Elvis song in “G.I. Blues”)

6 Stepped (on)

10 Hits up on Slack, say

13 Eggplant is a commonly used one

14 Contents of some shots

15 Sandwich in a soft tortilla

16 D to F, e.g., in music

18 Certain trekker

19 Cleverly understanding

20 #50 on a table

21 City that was home for the Wright brothers

23 Bun contents

25 Frequent filler for a po’ boy

26 Area of frenetic dancing

29 Not so hot

30 “Stan” rapper

31 Not feel so hot

32 Yale Bulldogs, by another name

36 Alert

37 Serious mix-up

39 Numismatic rating

40 Donkey Kong Country console, for short 41 Munchkin

42 Word with sound or side

44 1/13 or 2/13

46 Exotic pet store offerings

47 Writer’s starting point

50 Indian tourist site

51 Stunt performer on “Jackass” 52 Some OT enders 53 It may be induced

Field of Jean-Luc Godard

Preppy fabric

Powerful server 62 Competitive poker?

Warrant 64 Pixar’s Remy, for one 65 Slip (into) 66 Fruit that may be poached DOWN 1 Aid in seeking a record contract 2 “Sure, you can include me” 3 “___ ask!” 4 Inspiration for a seafood chain

Tune

“Ammo” for a modern-day cannon 7 It may be a handful

Bruins’ Bobby

Creepy crawler

Steamed

Rank achieved

Emperor’s New Groove”

A bar for “Cheers” and a coffee shop for “Friends”